In recent years, UK holidaymakers have fallen more and more in love with the city break. So much so, in 2014 the number of people travelling in this way surpassed those choosing a packaged beach break. The figures also suggest that the trend is set to continue, as British tourists go in search of culture, history and excitement rather than relaxation.

The beauty with living in the UK is that there are so many European cities that are just a short flight or rail journey away. With all this choice and so much to do once you arrive, it’s easy to see why short trips to urban destinations have gained so much popularity.

So, with around 43% of people saying they planned to take a city break in 2015 at the start of the year, and more set to follow in 2016, here are some top tips on how to get the most from your trip.

Make A Plan

The chances are that you aren’t going to have enough time to see everything there is to see and do everything there is to do in your chosen destination. Therefore, you need to plan what you are going to do to make the best use of your time. Doing some research online before you travel will help you pinpoint some of the highlights and may also lead to you uncovering some hidden gems.

Once you are actually on holiday there is no need to stick to your plan too rigidly, especially if things change. It’s easier to have a list of things you want to do in good weather and a list of indoor activities, so that if it rains on the day you were heading to the zoo you can easily check out that interesting museum instead.

Make Like A Local (At Least For A Bit)

There is a clear trend for behaving like a local in foreign destinations and there are now multiple mobile apps on the market that aim to take advantage of this. People are looking for local guides to show them around, inform them of places off the beaten track and even invite them into their family home to offer up a traditional home-cooked meal.

There’s no need to go to these extremes if you don’t want to, but doing as the locals do can enhance your holiday experience. This could just mean trying some local delicacies or dining in a restaurant that the people around town seem to be enjoying. Alternatively, you could wander through the markets for some traditional wares or simply learn a few phrases in the local language.

Take Advantage Of City Cards

Even if you try and stick to a budget, the cost of things can start to add up. Especially when you factor in getting around and the entrance fees of all the activities you want to do. However, you can often save a substantial amount by purchasing a city card before you travel. These passes allow you free or discounted entry to the major sights, free access to public transport and will even include a complimentary map and guide book.

Here at Fred. Holidays we can help you source a city card for your destination of choice. Sometimes, such is the case with Berlin Welcome Cards for 2015, we even include them in your package as a little gift from us.

Be A Wi-Fi Warrior

The internet has taken over our lives to the point that many of us have a need or a desire to be connected wherever we are and at all times. This includes whilst on holiday. Smartphones can be very handy when you are on your travels, providing an easily accessed map, instant reviews and an endless amount of inspiration. However, using your phone excessively abroad can leave you with an eye-watering bill to deal with once you get back home.

You can counteract this, though, by becoming a Wi-Fi warrior. Start by finding a hotel which offers complimentary internet access (something which many places now do) and then keep your eye out for Wi-Fi hotspots and internet cafes whilst you are out and about. This means that you can upload your jealousy-inducing selfies without delay and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to do so.

Book A Tailor-Made Trip

Perhaps the best way to get the most out of your European city break is to tailor-make your ideal trip from start to finish. Package deals are great but they may include aspects which you aren’t that interested in or visits to places that you don’t really want to go. At Fred. Holidays, we listen to exactly what you are looking for and then create your trip from scratch. This means that you could visit multiple cities in one holiday that includes everything you want to see.

To plan your tailor-made European city break today, call us on the number at the top of the screen or get in touch via our online contact form.