Mom’s Weekend Getaway: The Best Choices in Europe
When you think about a weekend escape with your girlfriends you may think about spas, white sandy beaches, shopping, a mouth watering meal, sightseeing, or even an adventurous excursion. As guilty as we may feel as parents for leaving our children behind, sometimes a break is necessary! No matter what you’re looking for in your mom’s weekend getaway, you are sure to find it in one of these fantastic European cities. Read on to explore the best European destinations recommended by a group of experienced travel bloggers for your next getaway!
Brussels, Belgium
Recommended by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer
There is no better place to spend a Mom’s weekend getaway in Europe than by exploring it’s highly underrated yet oh-so-fun capital Brussels. The city is often overlooked for the likes of Paris and London, but perhaps that is unjust? Brussels is the Art Nouveau capital of the world, it has no less than 4 UNESCO classifications, is home to the countries best frietkot (fry shack) and has a bar that stocks over 3000 types of beer. Plenty of element to make for a weekend of fun and a sprinkle of culture.
Other activities you will most certainly not want to miss are wandering around the historic centre (few central squares have that much gold adorning their gabled rooves), hunting down the statue of the little peeing man and his friend the little peeing dog, and grabbing coffee in the Marolles neighbordhood on Sunday before you go on a treasure hunt in the city’s most famous flea market.
When it comes to the culinary scene, Brussels has something to offer for everyone! If Belgian cuisine is what strikes your fancy be sure to go to Choux de Bruxelles and try their mouth-watering Flemish Carbonade on the lively Place Saint Catherine, incidentally also the place for a good party over the weekends! Spending a weekend in Brussels is truly a fun experience, but be sure to bring sensible shoes – cobblestones and high heels simply do not mesh.
Venice, Italy
Recommended by Jessie Moore from Pocket Wanderings
Venice is often considered to be the ultimate romantic city destination, but it certainly shouldn’t just be reserved for loved up couples. With its stunning architecture, delicious Italian food, and plenty of amazing things to see and do, it’s the perfect destination for a mom’s weekend getaway.
Discover Doge’s Palace, a breath-taking attraction built in a Venetian gothic style. Wander through St Mark’s Square and then onto Rialto Bridge. One of the most iconic bridges in the world, it offers beautiful views over the Grand Canal – arguably the most picture-perfect body of your water you’ll ever see!
Grab a table next to a canal and order a round of Aperol Spritz while you watch the gondolas glide past. A trip to Venice is the perfect excuse to indulge in as much fresh pasta and pizza as you can. Be sure to pay a visit to Harry’s Bar – the birthplace of the popular Bellini cocktail. Finally, you can’t leave without your group of girls enjoying a gondola ride through the picturesque city.
There are a number of gorgeous hotels throughout Venice. For grandiose Venetian interiors and a touch of luxury, stay in Hotel Metropole. It is situated right on the canal and features a charming outdoor area, perfect for an evening cocktail. Be sure to read up on some tips for visiting Venice before your girls’ getaway, as this unique city requires some insider knowledge to get the most out of your stay.
Lisbon, Portugal
Recommended by Rachel from Average Lives
Lisbon is the perfect escape for a mom’s trip because the city is full of colorful streets, delicious food and memorable things to do together. Lisbon is a vibrant city that can bring anyone joy, especially a mom who needs a getaway. It is the 9th most visited city in Europe and is one of the best city breaks you can go on. You should take in all of the tourist attractions, such as the iconic Praça do Comércio, the Castelo de São Jorge, the Lisbon Bridge and take a ride on Tram 28.
A fun area to explore together is Bairro Alto, and to make your way down the Pink Street stopping in the many bars and restaurants, including the quirky Sol E Pesca. You must try Pastel de Nata when you are there. These are Portuguese egg custard pastries and are delicious. You can get these all over the city, including from the brilliant Timeout Market, where you can enjoy a variety of Portuguese dishes and drink all under one roof.
Also, there is the option to go on a day trip while you are there. You can choose from (or both) the magical UNESCO World Heritage Sintra and feel like royalty as you visit the Pena Palace and the Palácio da Quinta da Regaleira. Alternatively, you can follow the coastline to Cascais to enjoy a beach day together. The possibilities are endless in Lisbon.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Recommended by Katja of Globetotting
The Icelandic capital of Reykjavik might not be an obvious destination for a mom’s getaway but if you’re looking for fun, adventure and a very cool city, then Reykjavik is a great choice. Plus, it’s a small city – home to less than 150,000 people – so it’s easy to explore over a weekend.
Start with a walk along the sea wall, beginning at the Harpa Concert Hall. The building is made from shimmering squares of glass and is beautiful; regular performances take place here throughout the year. The other main attraction along the seafront is the Solfar. Otherwise known as the Sun Voyager, this iconic sculpture looks like a Viking longboat but was actually designed as a dream boat or an ode to the sun.
Other things to do in Reykjavik include the Saga Museum, the Whale Museum and the Maritime Museum. All three offer a fascinating insight into how Reykjavik – and Iceland – was shaped and moulded. For something a little more frivolous, head to Omnom chocolate factory. You should also visit the Hallgrímskirkja church. Standing tall at 74.5m (244ft), it’s the largest church in Iceland and offers amazing views out over the city and beyond.
If you’re in Reykjavik for a long weekend then it’s worth taking a day trip to see the Golden Circle. This is a well-trodden path for good reason, taking in the Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park.
For a treat, have dinner at Dill Restaurant, which was the first restaurant in Iceland to be awarded a Michelin star. For desert, head to Valdís for an ice cream. There are lots of flavours to choose from including some great local options including the lakkrís, aka liquorice, rye bread, or rhubarb and skyr.
Biarritz, France
Recommended by Hannah from Nouvelle-Aquitaine Travel
Biarritz is a glamourous seaside city on the Basque coast of France. Popular with royalty in the 1800s and the glitterati more recently; you could say that Biarritz is the Monaco of the Atlantic coast. An indulgent combination of beaches and boutiques, casual tapas and rooftop bars; Biarritz is perfect for a mom’s weekend getaway in Europe.
Biarritz airport is a short 1.5-hour internal connection from Paris or Lyon airports, or a 2-hour drive from both Bilbao and Bordeaux. It is generally recommended not to drive in Biarritz, so leave your car at the hotel, and enjoy this very walkable city. Where to stay? Why not splash out on a stay at the Hôtel Du Palais Biarritz – once the summer home to Napoleon III.
Start your day at the Les Halles markets, discover the beautiful Basque produce and cured meats. Then enjoy the shopping and restaurants around the city centre. Head to the waterfront, take a stroll along the promenade, eat ice-cream, and enjoy the incredible beaches of Biarritz. Don’t forget to walk out to the statue of the Virgin Mary out on the peninsular – you get amazing views back towards the coast from there.
Spend your evenings discovering the French / Basque crossover cuisine; and enjoying the sunsets and Txakoli wine from places like the roof terrace at Les Baigneuses de Biarritz.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Recommended by Cath from Travel Around Ireland
A great city in Europe for a mom’s getaway weekend is Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. This city on the east of the country is a city that has a lot to offer moms who are escaping the trials of parenting for a few days.
As well as spotting bagpipe players in their kilts, there is plenty to keep you occupied. Edinburgh Castle is a must, as is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyrood house. Check out the beautiful, ruined abbey to the rear of the palace. You can also learn about Scottish history at the National Museum of Scotland and for incredible views across the city, climb up to Arthur’s Seat.
If you want to enjoy some laughs on your mom‘s weekend away, make sure to take the ghost bus tour of Edinburgh and visit the Edinburgh Dungeons. These are sure to get you giggling and laughing. Walk Royal Mile and visit some souvenir shops and don’t forget to pop into some of the quaint little shops along Cockburn Street.
When it comes to places to eat and drink, you can take your pick in Edinburgh. A great little place for lunch is Clarinda’s Tearooms just across the road from Holyrood Palace. For a fancy dinner, book a table at The Dome. Slip on your heels and little black dress and enjoy a posh meal with your girls. And a great place for a drink is Le Monde. You’ll be hard pushed to choose between all their cocktails on offer.
Athens, Greece
Recommended by Chrysoula from Athens & Beyond
Athens is an iconic destination and perfect for a moms’ getaway weekend. It is fun climbing up to the Acropolis, visiting the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum. There are numerous other ancient monuments to explore. On Sundays, at 11.00 the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place outside Parliament. Explore the city by joining a foodie-based walking tour. For great shopping Plaka (under Acropolis) and Monastiraki with its markets are perfect.
If you fancy relaxing on a beach, hop on the Greenline tram in Syntagma Square for Asklipio and get off at Edem. There is a lovely beach and taverna too. If you want to taste the best souvlakia, head to O Thanasis in Plaka – Lukumades (a few doors away), sells delicious mini honey-dipped doughnuts. At sunset, head up Lycabettus Hill and for spectacular views of the floodlit Acropolis, what better than relaxing with a cocktail in a rooftop bar?
The perfect place to stay is Moon & Stars Boutique Hotel, just 200 meters from the Ancient Agora. The hotel has bedrooms with sitting areas and a communal terrace up on the roof! Guests also have use of the hotel’s Fiat 500 for sightseeing.
Rome, Italy
Recommended by Debbie Fettback from WorldAdventurists.com.
The Eternal City of Rome is a perfect destination for a girls’ weekend, wandering its ancient cobble-stone streets. Rome is like an endless open-air museum with something impressive to find and learn around every corner. What better way to explore Rome than though many laughs with the girls?
Spend the days admiring the classic tourist spots, like the Colosseum, the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo. The Piazzas are great to relax, people watch, and soak up the Italian atmosphere!
Start your first night off by bringing a bottle of wine down to the Trevi Fountain. The area becomes especially lively when the sun goes down. Don’t forget to throw a coin over your shoulder into the Trevi Fountain, in hopes that you’ll return again.
Take some time to enjoy some shopping. Rome has plenty of independent boutiques that are full of Italian treasures, leather shoes, boots, bags, and everything in between.
Attend an Italian cooking class. Try your hand at making real Italian pasta, or dough for an authentic margarita pizza. Don’t forget to wash it all down with some Gelato. Lots and lots of Gelato. Further indulge in the best of the best with a food tour.
The Hive Hotel is a great option for accommodation. It is clean and modern, as well as nicely located in the center of the city, within walking distance of many attractions.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Recommended by Kami of Kami & The Rest of the World
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a wonderful place to visit for a girls’ getaway. Whether you are traveling solo or with your girlfriends, you can be sure you won’t be bored – there are so many great things to do in Tbilisi that everyone will find something interesting for themselves.
This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with diverse architecture (from centuries-old churches and art-nouveau gems to funky modern buildings), charming corners in Old Tbilisi, or amazing views from the upper part of the city (where you can get by the cable car). If you want to relax a bit you should visit traditional bathhouses, there are a few of them in the picturesque Abanotubani district.
Georgia is known for its wine, in fact this is one of the oldest wine-making regions in the world, and you can try the tasty local produce in numerous shops and restaurants all over the city. And if you are a foodie Tbilisi will be a real paradise for you. Georgian cuisine is, hands down, one of the best in the world with tasty and delicious dishes (including many vegetarian options) – the fresh, local ingredients make even a simple salad pure heaven. Tbilisi is also known for its unique and beautiful hotels so if you would like to splurge a bit you can stay in one of them (like Stamba Hotel or Rooms Hotel).
Athenian Riviera, Greece
Recommended by Elena from the Athenian Riviera
You don’t need to hop on a ferry to escape the tumult of the Greek capital. You just need to drive a few kilometers downtown to the south coast of Athens, to the famous and charming Athenian Riviera. This long stretch of coastline, bathed by the Saronic Gulf, with its crystal-clear blue waters, five-star resorts, beautiful beaches, marinas, awarded restaurants, notable nightclubs, and shopping districts, is the perfect mom’s getaway destination.
Book yourself into a luxurious resort where you can relax by the pool sipping on a refreshing cocktail or pamper yourself with a spa package. The beach scene in the Athenian Riviera is unreal, there is an abundance of choice, from hidden unorganized paradisiac beaches to organized fancy beach clubs, where you can spend the whole day, without having to worry about anything.
During the afternoon enjoy a proper shopping therapy, in the center of Glyfada and shop till you drop from either your favorite chain stores or from the amazing unique boutiques. The Athenian Riviera food scene is very rich and cosmopolitan, from Greek traditional restaurants with live music to Japanese and Peruvian Restaurants. If you still have that party-animal spirit in you, slip on your heels and a pretty dress and head to one of the best beach/summer-nightclubs of Alimos or Vouliagmeni, where you can dance to the hits of famous DJs, until the sun starts rising. Alternatively enjoy long walks by the beachside walking routes, where you can gaze at the most beautiful sunset in the city.
Mykonos, Greece
Recommended by Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me
Some destinations need no special introduction; one of them is Mykonos, probably the most famous Greek Island, with its world-renowned party scene, high-end services and hordes of celebrities that stroll around its whitewashed streets.
Although the island’s nightlife is a valid reason to visit Mykonos in its own right, there are many other fantastic things to do there. Admiring the Old Town’s traditional architecture, taking a photo at the iconic windmills, and standing in awe before the gorgeous Little Venice at sunset are only a few of them. Moreover, Mykonos is home to spectacular beaches for all tastes: from trendy crowded beach clubs to secluded pieces of heaven.
Mykonos is ideal for a girls’ trip, especially when moms in desperate need of a getaway are involved. The island combines all those elements that are necessary for a long-awaited and unforgettable trip with friends: fun, amazing beaches, cocktails with the best views, and mouthwatering food. Speaking of food, Mykonos is one of the best places to sample the most delicious dishes of the Greek cuisine, such as Greek salad, mousakas, and souvlaki.
As far as accommodation is concerned, Mykonos offers the unique opportunity to experience absolute luxury without breaking the bank. How? It’s simple. If you’re travelling as a group of friends, you can rent a luxury villa to have all to yourselves for the same price as booking individual rooms at a hotel. Mykonos Pearls is one of many brands that rent out dreamy villas with infinity swimming pools and breathtaking views.
Cappadocia (On the border)
Recommended by Gemma from Two Scots Abroad
Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey is well worth a mention for friends who are looking to do something really unusual and some spa action! One of the coolest places to visit with friends has to be Cappadocia in Turkey.
If you can handle early rises, you will be rewarded with views of floating hot air balloons at sunrise and, if you’re game, the opportunity to do a balloon ride with your pals. Cappadocia is located among the Taurus Mountains, making its terrain extremely unusual.
Another unique thing about this region is the accommodation – many visitors choose to stay in cave hotels in Cappadocia! Yes! Hotels carved into the sides of caves and kitted out with local decor. Most of these hotels have terraces with the best views of the hot air balloon rides. Turkey is known for its breakfast, and if you book into a decent hotel, you will be able to gorge on a banquet.
While balloon rides are the main attraction, you can also visit the historical site of Göreme Open Air Museum, hike among the phallic-shaped rocks at Love Valley and enjoy a spa experience at Katpatuka Camur Maharasi.
To get to Cappadocia, you need to take an internal flight from Istanbul to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport. Your accommodation will help organise a group taxi ride to your hotel from the tiny airport.
Unfortunately, the weather determines whether balloons fly. We stayed for three days and were lucky. We took flight on the second day and watched the balloons the next. One friend who was scared of heights didn’t do the ride, opting to sleep in and join us for a spa afternoon after we finished at midday.
Vienna, Austria
Recommended by Sophie from Just Heading Out
Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it’s the perfect place for mom’s weekend getaway. The city is full of historic architecture, art, and culture. Between the fairy tale palaces, charming coffee houses, and interesting museums, you have all the ingredients for a fun girls trip.
Take your girls to Vienna and feel like princesses at Schönbrunn Palace and Hofburg. Marvel at beautiful buildings like the St. Stephens Cathedral, Rathaus, and Hundertwasserhaus. Art lovers can spend their days admiring the masterpieces in Leopold Museum, Belvedere, and Albertina. Of course, Vienna is also a city of music, so a visit to the Beethoven Museum and a night at the famous Opera are in order.
Once it’s time for a break, sit down for a piece of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in one of the historic coffeehouses like Demel, which used to be frequented by artists like Klimt and Wagner. For something more hearty, try a Viennese schnitzel in a traditional Gasthaus, or get a quick hotdog from one of the many street carts. During wine season, you can visit a heurige for a glass of delicious Austrian wine.
In the spring and summertime, the many parks in Vienna are the perfect place to escape from the heat and enjoy a picnic. While in December, Vienna is a winter wonderland with some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. There truly is no wrong time to visit Vienna.
Find more things to do in Vienna!
Dublin, Ireland
Recommended by Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Friendly faces, rich history, and walkable cobblestone streets greet visitors to Dublin with open arms. It’s not as overwhelming as bigger cities like London or Berlin making it ideal for a mom’s getaway in Europe. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin that will interest any mom!
Dublin is deeply rooted in Ireland’s culture and history – with Dubliners being proud of where they come from. Explore the towering Dublin Castle or historic Trinity College. Walk across the Ha’Penny bridge and go shopping along the River Liffey. Nearby, explore Christ Church Cathedral or St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Be sure to take some time to relax in St. Stephen’s Green, especially on a sunny day.
Don’t forget to try the local foods! Dublin has plenty of restaurants and pubs that feature local ingredients. The Church is one of the most unique places to eat. A 17th-century church-turned-cafe/pub featuring live music and traditional Irish dancers. For a luxury stay in the heart of Georgian Dublin – check out the Merrion Hotel! The Cellar Bar in the basement is set in an original 18th-century wine vault! After a day of exploring, indulge in a refreshing glass of wine.
The rich history intertwined with an incredible personality makes Dublin one of the best getaways in Europe.
Provence, France
Recommended by Nadine from Le Long Weekend
For moms in need of a getaway, there are few better places than Provence, France. With the perfect mix of stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, charming villages, and refined towns, there’s plenty to keep you busy, no matter what kind of girl’s trip you’re after. And of course, the exquisite food and award-winning local wines mean your taste buds are in for a treat too.
Book a stay at Les Lodges Sainte Victoire and spend your days hiking Cezanne’s favorite mountain, before relaxing in the hotel spa and indulging in a meal at the on-site Michelin star restaurant. Or cosy up in a B&B in the Luberon Valley and you’ll be just a stone’s throw from many of the most beautiful villages in Provence, plus fragrant lavender fields, and endless Chateau vineyards.
Nearby, the cities of Aix-en-Provence and Avignon both offer a heady culture fix, with galleries, museums and historical centers you could spend many days exploring. Be sure to amble through the farmer’s markets at leisure – they are the perfect place to pick up local delicacies such as Calissons, Fougasse, and lavender-infused honey. But they’re also ideal for shopping for souvenirs including local linens, Marseille soap and olive wood bowls.
Dolomites, Italy
Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird
If you’re looking for an epic girls weekend away, consider the breathtaking Dolomites in northern Italy. These beautiful mountains are unlike anything you’re likely to see anywhere else in Europe- and they’re well worth the effort to reach them. As well as the mountains, there are plenty of hikes with jaw-dropping scenery, amazing places for Instagram and photo shoots and pizza. Lots and lots of pizza. The best way to get there is by driving or flying in, hiring a car and planning your own Italy road trip itinerary.
You won’t be able to see all the Dolomites in a weekend, but some of the highlights include driving the Great Dolomites road, which takes about 2 hours without stops- although you’ll definitely want to stop at Lake Carezza. Ideally, get here early- before the tour buses arrive. The rest of the route has some amazing locations for a picnic or just a relaxing stop in the sunshine.
Eventually, you’ll reach the turning onto Sella pass – believe it or not, this road is even more spectacular! (I dare you not to say wow at least 100 times.)There are some great places to stay all over the Dolomites, so choose one with amazing views and ideally a spa like the Antelao Dolomiti Mountain Resort- you might as well spoil yourself!
Bordeaux on France
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Bordeaux is a beautiful city in southern France. It might not be as well-known as Paris but if you’re looking for a fun Mom’s weekend getaway to relax and unwind this is definitely the place to go. Of course, everything in Bordeaux is about wine so it’s the perfect city to come to with your girlfriends. The climate here is mild year-round and the summers are warm and pleasant. No matter when you need some time away Bordeaux is always a great destination.
The city has a lot to offer such as great shopping opportunities, lots of sightseeing spots as well as a fantastic selection of little cafes and restaurants for a fun brunch or dinner. However, the real gems lie outside of the city in the vineyards.
Head to Saint-Émilion which lies just a quick car-ride away from the heart of Bordeaux. This little town is home to some of the best wine in the world and has thousands of individual wineries to explore. Come here for wine tours and lots of tastings which will make your trip to the country-side a lot more fun. What a better way to relax and unwind with your girlfriends than on a little wine train that takes you all around the best wineries? Saint-Émilion has got it all.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad
A great destination for a mom’s weekend getaway in Europe is one to the lovely Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre is an area in Italy where you can find 5 towns next to the sea: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. What’s unique about the towns of Cinque Terre are the many viewpoints, the colorful houses, and the spectacular hiking routes. If you are looking for a pretty place, then Cinque Terre is what you are looking for. There are also lots of places for photography in Cinque Terre.
There are many great things to do in Cinque Terre. For example, you can hike between the towns and see beautiful viewpoints and nature along the way. Another great thing to do is going to the beach in Monterosso al Mare.
What makes Cinque Terre especially good for a mom’s getaway is that the towns are very relaxing. The towns are very picturesque, with only a few small shops and restaurants. Furthermore, it is easy to move around in Cinque Terre. Each town has its own train station and the journey between the towns is very short. For a good place to stay in Cinque Terre, check out La Polena Camere Vernazza – Suite vista mare!
Paris, France
Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris
The French capital is an excellent destination for a girl’s weekend getaway in Europe. The city bisected by the Seine River is beautiful, cultural, lively, plus it has excellent food, wine, and fantastic shopping.
Two days in Paris is a reasonable amount of time to get a good taste of the city. With a weekend in Paris, you can visit some of the top tourist attractions like the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, or Arc de Triomphe, and combine them with a couple of leisure strolls or places off the beaten path.
Shopping mums will love the ‘golden triangle’ in the eighth district of Paris with the best luxury brands or the vintage boutiques in the Le Marais.
Nights in Paris usually start with delicious French food, and you don’t need to book in a fancy restaurant to eat great food. Then, you can head to one of the rooftop bars in Paris for some drinks with a view, book a fun cabaret show with champagne, or a quiet moonlit stroll in Montmartre without the crowds. The best time to visit Paris is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Avoid the biggest crowds and get some deals, particularly on transport and accommodation.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler
If you’re looking for a mom’s weekend getaway, there’s no better place than the fairytale city of Amsterdam. Stroll around its cobblestone streets and explore the city’s canals, which look even more magical as the sun sets and the twinkling lights spring to life. While the city itself is tiny, there’s tons of sites to see in its small footprint, making it perfect to explore on foot with your girlfriends.
Check out any of the city’s 70 museums, from the world-class Van Gogh Museum to the more light-hearted Museum of Bags and Purses and take a boat tour, champagne glass in hand, while cruising the canal waters and admiring the charming crooked houses lining the streets.
Have a laugh at Boom Chicago, a sketch improv show that has churned out some seriously funny talent, including Seth Meyers and Jason Sudeikeis. If your group of friends is brave, you can consider renting a bike and joining the 4.25 million locals who cycle the streets of the city every day.
After all that exploring, you have surely worked up quite an appetite and thankfully, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without a bit of a culinary exploration- not-to-miss eats include stroopwafel, a wafer cookie made from two thin layers of baked dough joined by a caramel filling, Dutch pancakes, and fries topped with mayonnaise. If you’re looking for a relaxing girls getaway to feel transported into a magical setting, Amsterdam is the perfect place to escape!
Strasbourg, France & the Alsatian Wine Trail
Recommended by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting
Strasbourg, France is the jewel of the Alsace region. It’s also among the most beautiful cities in all of Europe and the ideal backdrop for a mom’s getaway. Picture a beautiful medieval city centre wrapped by a network of bridge-crossed canals – it’s beauty personified. The city’s timber-framed homes and cobblestone streets transport you to provincial France as if you’re Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Your group can even book one of these magnificent timber-framed homes through Airbnb Strasbourg for a bucket-list-worthy place to stay.
One of the reasons you’ll love Strasbourg for a mom’s trip in Europe is the famous vineyards. Strasbourg is the ideal city to use as home base while exploring the Alsatian wine trail. In Strasbourg, you can visit gorgeous wine cellars and purveyors around the city. Most of the vineyards have shops in the city and will offer you a tasting on the spot. Others will require you to arrange a paid tasting, especially if you are visiting with a group. Tours can also be arranged to visit the Alsatian villages in the region to sip wine and enjoy the other charming villages.
Another perfect activity is a canal tour of Strasbourg to float along the picturesque waterways surrounding Grand Ile. They even include a trip through the medieval lock system. Overall, it’s a perfect city to relax, unwind, let loose and enjoy the best of the Alsace region.
French Riviera
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
The sunny French Riviera in Southern France is an excellent destination for a mom’s weekend getaway in Europe. Here, you will have good weather guaranteed, the best food, French wine and champagne, and the possibility of a dip in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
For a weekend getaway, I recommend staying in Nice. The French Riviera capital is a stunning city to visit, and it has an international airport and good train connections with the rest of France.
The list of things to do in Nice is long, with activities for all kinds of travelers. In addition to lazy days on the beach, you can stroll through the iconic Promenade des Anglais, ice-cream in hand, explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice) and port, or visit one of the city’s colorful markets. If you are more interested in a cultural weekend getaway, Nice also has interesting art museums, like the Matisse Museum or the Chagall Museum.
Also, Nice is an excellent base to explore other places nearby, by public transportation or guided tours. The list of beautiful places to visit on a day trip from Nice includes Monte Carlo, Menton, Cannes, or Saint Tropez, all names that make us dream! To eat, don’t miss some musts like the Nicoise salad, socca, ratatouille or mussels with cream sauce.
Seville, Spain
Recommended by Abi from Inside Travel Lab
Ah, how the city of Seville stands ready to welcome worn out moms! It could be tempting to start with the practical stuff, such as the fact that the city centre is walkable and that it has its own airport. But let’s talk about what makes the city come alive.
As Spain’s 4th largest city, Seville has a distinct atmosphere sitting in the heart of Andalusia. This is the home of flamenco and polka dot dresses, the region responsible for gazpacho and finely sliced jamon, and the place that throws the biggest party going every year right after Easter called Feria.
It’s a city pastime to eat tapas, sip fino sherry or cerveza and watch the world go by on the beautiful cobbled streets. Its Banos Arabes spa lives amid sumptuous architecture and splashing fountains. And its intricate Moorish hotels, like the Hotel Alfonso XIII, sit right next to the place that inspired the opera Carmen.
Seville hit the big time when Christopher Columbus asked for money at the Real Alcazar palace in Seville and set sail from the district of Triana to discover the “New World.” The treasures of that era result in stunning buildings set amid the orange trees.
The streets are not forgiving for pushchairs and heavy luggage. But they provide that sense of escape for moms in need of a break.
Llechwed Slate Mines Glamping, Wales
Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel
Going on a girls weekend away is on the top of the list for so many women but picking the perfect place to go is hard. Luckily there is Glamping at the Llechwed Slate Mines. Located just out of Blaenau Ffestiniog Wales the location, views and tents are an amazing place to spend a couple of nights or more with your group of friends.
It is also home to some of the very best things to do in North Wales that include zip-lining, mountain bike riding and hiking which are all located on-site. If you have some adrenaline junkies in the group it is the perfect place for them but if you also want time to relax at night then the glamping tents are the perfect way to end a day of adventure. After a long day, you can sit and watch the sun go down either on the deck or in the cooler months in front of the roaring wood heater.
The Glamping tents are amazing and there is so much to do when you are staying there….or there is absolutely nothing if that’s what you prefer. They are all equipped with their own bathroom and a small kitchenette. Here you can cook your group a meal or make yourself a platter from local produce to enjoy on the deck overlooking the old unused slate mine and the epic scenery that surrounds it.
If you are staying for a few nights you can also use the Llechwedd Glamping as your base to see more of the area and discover what Wales has to offer tourists and visitors alike.
Strasbourg, France
Recommended by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple
Strasbourg is a postcard perfect French town located at the border of Germany. As a result of this, what we see today is a Strasbourg that enjoys best of both the countries that is evident in their cuisine, language, culture and festivals.
Whether you are a history buff, culture vulture, food enthusiast or wine connoisseur, a visit to Strasbourg is a must. For a city so compact, there are plenty of things to do in Strasbourg. And what’s interesting about Strasbourg is how it effortlessly fits into the itinerary of any kind of traveller – solo, couple or family travels!
Explore the intricate architecture of Strasbourg Cathedral and don’t forget to get to the top of the cathedral to enjoy the panoramic views of Strasbourg. You only have to climb 300 steep stairs!
Take the canal cruise and enjoy the serene waters while looking at the many European Institutions. Explore the La Petite France, one of the most instagrammable spots in Strasbourg.
As said earlier, Strasbourg enjoys unique blend of French-German cuisine, a culture where beer and wine co-exist. Alsatian traditional foods are worth trying, more particularly Sauerkraut and Flammekuche. Usually served with meat, but there are vegetarian versions available too.
Strasbourg makes for a fantastic girls (mom’s getaway) trip because it can be easily accessed from both France and Germany, the city is compact enough to fit into a weekend, yet offers myriad day trip options. Plus Strasbourg as a city is extremely safe to travel to.
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About Me
I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!
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