Discover The Perfect City Break

JF Travel has got you covered with their top picks for city breaks from Belfast in 2023.

Looking for a quick escape from the daily grind? JF Travel, Coleraine has got you covered with their top picks for city breaks in 2023.

Whether you're looking for sun, culture, nightlife or just a change of scenery, these five destinations will give you plenty to write home about.

So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for some serious fun!

Palma

If you're looking for a city that combines sun, sea, and culture, Palma is the perfect choice. From the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral to the designer shops and buzzing nightlife, there's something for everyone. Take a stroll through the atmospheric Old Town where the Cathedral’s Gothic spires overlook swish marina-side bars along a palm-fringed waterfront. And thanks to beaches on the doorstep, it's easy to mix sightseeing with sunbathing. You’re in for a bunch of exciting experiences when it comes to wining and dining. Think colourful markets, art nouveau cafés, champagne bars, rooftop cocktails, tapas trails and Michelin-starred dining. When the sun goes down, it's all about the cobbled lanes of La Lonja for jazz clubs and chit-chat with the locals.

Budapest

A little culture here, a little nightlife there – elegant Budapest ticks all the boxes. Split by the Danube River, it's a tale of two cities. On the UNESCO-stamped west side, amble through the tree-lined boulevards and cobbled streets of Buda and baroque buildings spring into view. Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church and Buda Castle will make you swoon. But that's just one part of this cosmopolitan city. After dark, over in the east, edgy Pest is the place to be. What are you in the mood for? Take your pick from quirky ruin pubs and underground clubs to rooftop terraces and cool cocktail bars. Hangovers can be cured at the grand, centuries-old bathhouses peppered throughout the Hungarian capital – there are lots to choose from!

Barcelona

Welcome to the ultimate city by the sea. Prepare to be wowed by the genius of Gaudí at La Sagrada Familia, explore the epic waterfront and get lost among the city’s quirky neighbourhoods. Looking for family fun? A zoo, aquarium and magic fountains should do the trick. When relaxation is on the cards, take time out around Barceloneta Beach with its cool seaside bars and restaurants. But things get even more exciting at night thanks to Barcelona’s love for dining, drinking and good times. Go tapas-tasting and cava sipping around El Born, where crowds from tiny bars spill out onto the streets. Check out the al fresco entertainment along La Rambla and swing by the odd rooftop bar for a G&T or two. That’s the buzz of Barcelona for you.

Krakow

Dusted in snow or bathed in sunshine, Krakow's a real beauty that'll sweep you off your feet and be kind to your wallet too. Cobbled roads, medieval houses and grand squares make up the walkable UNESCO-listed Old Town. Getting lost among its warren of backstreets is pure magic, but you'll find extra charm in the dumpling-serving restaurants and dinky vodka bars. Hear that tinkle of jazz? Follow it down into the underground cellar bars for atmospheric live music – it's just the start of Krakow's vibrant nightlife scene. Over in Kazimierz, the former Jewish Quarter, synagogues, flea markets and edgy bars steal the spotlight. When you're not exploring these culture-stuffed areas, venture out for day trips to remember. Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine should be top of your list.

Faro

Wander the cobbled streets of the Algarve’s pretty capital and you’ll soon fall for its traditional Portuguese flavours. The quaint cobbles of the Old Town are at the heart of things – and a showcase of colourful tiles, decorative arches and painted doors mean photo opps galore. Dinky authentic eateries and wine bars are tucked down side streets, wedged between independent boutiques and secret courtyards. By the marina, it’s a swanky scene of yacht-watching and lazy al fresco brunches, where just-netted seafood plays a big part on most menus. And of course, you’re near the coast here, so golden sands and surfer vibes are all part of the appeal too.

No matter which city you choose, JF Travel has got you covered. So why not book your next city break today and get ready to discover a whole new world of adventure?

JF Travel, 31 Kingsgate Street, Coleraine. Tel:  028 7040 0101. Visit: http://www.jftravel.co.uk or go to Facebook: JF Travel Coleraine.

This article is a part of the Our Coleraine CQ magazine.