As the warm, sunny days of Spring begin to increase, this is an ideal time to go on weekend escapes. I tend to travel quite a lot during Spring, as the days lengthen and multiple bank holidays provide excellent opportunities for extended trips. As someone who travels using annual leave on a full-time job, this is the perfect time to maximise my holiday allowance by travelling around the bank holidays. Whether it’s a 3-day escape or an extended trip, travelling around bank holidays will help you save annual leave to use later in the year. If you are looking for inspiration for your Spring getaway, here are three amazing European destinations to include in your travel plans: Copenhagen, Lake Bled and Budapest.
Copenhagen: A Laid-back City Retreat
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Copenhagen stands out as one of the most laid-back capital cities I’ve ever visited. Aside from tourist spots like the colourful Nyhavn and the iconic Little Mermaid statue, the city itself doesn’t feel overly touristy. It’s the perfect destination for those who prefer a more low-key atmosphere. Here are a few recommendations for your trip:
Explore Danish history by visiting unique landmarks such as Rosenborg Castle or venture beyond the city to see Frederiksborg Castle.
Spend sunny Spring days exploring picturesque green areas like the King’s Garden or the Lakes, ideal for a stroll and a picnic.
Indulge in mouthwatering pastries from the many bakeries scattered throughout the city, my favourite was Buka.
Try the local favourite, smørrebrød, at the TorvehallerneKBH market, which offers a selection of toppings, or at any Danish restaurant for a taste of tradition with pickled herring.
Copenhagen boasts some of the world’s best and most innovative restaurants like Noma, but if you plan to dine out, be sure to book in advance as reservations can be hard to come by, and dining can be quite pricey.
Lake Bled: Postcard views from the pristine lake
For a beautiful outdoor escape that’s easy to explore in just a few days, Lake Bled in Slovenia is a top recommendation. Offering a peaceful retreat amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Lake Bled is located just an hour from Ljubljana and can be easily accessed by rental car or local bus. Here are my suggestions for making the most of your time at Lake Bled:
Rent a boat in Lake Bled and enjoy the gorgeous scenery around you at your own pace, it’s 20€ for one hour. This place is fascinating with the turquoise waters and the little island with the Church of the Assumption of Mary. I also recommend docking on the island. It’s quite small but it offers a different perspective to admire the lake.
Climb up the Osojnica trail to enjoy a panoramic view of the lake, the castle and the surrounding mountains. The hike takes about 45 minutes but rewards you with breathtaking vistas.
Visit the Bled Castle grounds, there you will find another privileged view of the lake. You can also go inside to learn more about its history.
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Triglav National Park with a hike through Vintgar Gorge. Renting a car allows you to explore nearby attractions like Lake Bohinj and the Savica waterfall. You can check the best rental car deals here and pick a car on arrival at the airport to head straight to Lake Bled.
Budapest: A Fairytale Escape
Budapest’s impressive fairytale-like architecture and rich cultural heritage will leave you in awe from the moment you arrive. From the grandeur of the Parliament Building to the enchanting Fisherman’s Bastion and the historic Buda Castle, Budapest is a true treasure of Central Europe.
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths offer you an amazing opportunity to unwind after a day of sightseeing. You can start by dipping in and out of the hot and cold pools indoors to activate your senses, then relax in the heated outdoor pool.
Savour the classic Hungarian Goulash, or sample some street food favourites like Lángos, available at the Central Market Hall or Karavan. And if you’re looking for a small treat, the city is full of cafés like Bite Bakery and Cookie Beacon.
As night falls, enjoy a magical boat ride to take in the sparkling views of the Parliament and Buda Castle along the riverbanks. You can easily book your boat tour through Get Your Guide. For a unique alternative night out, venture to the Ruin Bars like Szimpla Kert, with multiple rooms and bars, where you can immerse yourself in live music, dancing, and even film screenings, offering an alternative night out experience.
As the days grow longer and the Summer starts to peak around the corner, take the opportunity to explore these lovely destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the low-key vibe of Copenhagen, the nature sights of Slovenia or the fairytale charm of Budapest, each destination promises a memorable long weekend getaway.
