City breaks can be the ideal trip away for those wanting a short, immersive trip where they can experience all the sights and sounds of their destination at once.
For those who want to explore and get the most from their next city trip, knowing some tips and tricks can elevate their trip and give them the next vacation possible regardless of their destination.
Stay Central
Choosing a centralized accommodation, while it may seem a bit more expensive, is a smart move. It’s a reassurance that you’re not wasting precious time commuting, but rather, you’re strategically located to make the most of your city break. After all, the more time you spend getting from your bed to the city’s heart, the less you’ll be able to experience.
Pick your accommodation based on the activities you will be doing and the places you want to explore. This will give you a more dental base to work from and reduce travel times so you can get more from your day.
Storage
Most major cities have storage options located at easy-to-find prominent landmarks or buildings. You are able to book storage options for short time frames to store your luggage until you check in, after you have checked out until you leave, or even just hold your shopping so you’re not carrying it around.
For example, luggage storage Madrid is open 24/7 at Barajas Airport and multiple locations across the city, so you can leave your bags and collect them again when it’s convenient for you.
Make Plans and Book Ahead
While a sprinkle of spontaneity can add a dash of excitement to your trip, having a loose plan in place is a game-changer. It’s not about restricting your freedom, but rather, it’s about empowering you to make the most of your time.
It ensures you don’t miss out on must-see activities, especially during peak tourist seasons when pre-booking is often a necessity.
Look at what is available and what you want to do, then plan the distance between all of your activities. This can help you plan your time better, understand your restrictions, and estimate how long it will take to get around.
Many major cities have passes that can save you on entrance costs for major tourist attractions and get you on public transport; London is one such example with the London Pass.
Even if you don’t book, know what to do and plan ahead so you have options if your first choice isn’t available. This will reduce the time spent trying to find alternatives.
Explore
Embrace the adventure of exploring on foot as much as possible. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B, but about immersing yourself in the city’s unique charm. Even if you’re on a tight schedule, allocate some time to wander and discover the city’s hidden treasures.
By doing so, you’re not just seeing the city’s highlights, but also getting a more authentic feel of the place. It’s an adventure waiting to happen!
Try Independents
While it’s extremely tempting to book your stay-up dining at the most exclusive restaurants or visiting attractions that provide a huge tourist draw for the city, you can also have an amazing experience by heading off the beaten track for your restaurant choices and asking the locals what they owuld want to see if they were visiting.
While the tourist attractions can indeed be amazing, they aren’t the be-all and end-all of the city, and often, you can find some experienced independent traders by veering away from the tourist areas and experiencing life as the locals do.
Relax
City breaks are typically more packed than longer beach retreats or visits to resort complexes. However, don’t forget that amidst all the running around to fit everything in, you also need to enjoy this time away.
If something isn’t making you happy or isn’t what you want it to do, don’t be afraid to change it up and do what you want or need to. Remember, it’s your trip, so take a moment to relax and savor the experience.
City breaks are designed to be short and sweet. Get in, explore as much as possible in a few short days, then head back out again. With so much to do and so little time, your city break needs to be carefully thought out so you can get the most from your break and experience each city in a way that makes you happy.