At Travelaire, we believe that great travel doesn’t always mean going further — it means going smarter. Whether you're craving culture, coastlines, or just a bit of peace and perspective, here are five surprising cities that are perfect for a quick-but-memorable long weekend.
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why go? For postcard-perfect scenery, lakeside strolls, and a breath of fresh alpine air.
Ljubljana might just be Europe’s most underrated capital. Compact, clean, and incredibly pretty, this Slovenian gem serves up cobbled streets, riverside cafés, and a car-free old town that’s a joy to wander.
You can explore the whole city on foot or by bike in a couple of days, but the real magic comes from its pace — calm, friendly, and entirely stress-free. And if you want to mix things up, Lake Bled is just an hour away and looks like it belongs in a fairytale.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travellers, and relaxed explorers
Flight time from London: Around 2 hours 15 minutes
2. Valletta, Malta
Why go? For sun-soaked streets, sea views, and Mediterranean charm without the crowds.
Valletta isn’t just the capital of Malta — it’s a time capsule of history, wrapped up in warm stone walls and coastal breezes. It’s one of the smallest capitals in Europe, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm. Expect glowing golden light, elegant architecture, and panoramic harbour views at every turn.
Spend your weekend wandering the narrow alleyways, enjoying fresh seafood, and soaking up the view from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Fancy a bit more adventure? Hop on a boat to the Three Cities or a quick bus to Mdina, Malta’s silent city.
Perfect for: Culture lovers, photographers, sun seekers
Flight time from London: Around 3 hours
3. Muscat, Oman
Why go? For Arabian elegance, dramatic landscapes, and a warm cultural welcome.
Muscat is a world away from the towering skylines of the Middle East. Instead, it offers a more grounded, authentic experience. Think whitewashed buildings, quiet beaches, bustling souqs, and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Start your weekend with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, then head to Muttrah Souq for shopping, scents, and snacks. You could also take a boat trip to spot dolphins, or a drive out to Wadi Shab for turquoise water and hidden caves.
It’s an easy, peaceful break with a deep sense of place — and perfect if you’re looking to escape the usual city break formula.
Perfect for: Couples, culture-focused travellers, nature lovers
Flight time from London: Around 7 hours (worth it for a long weekend with an extra day!)
4. Graz, Austria
Why go? For food, design, and a more relaxed take on Austrian charm.
While Vienna and Salzburg steal the spotlight, Graz is Austria’s laid-back cultural capital. It's a city where Renaissance courtyards meet futuristic architecture, where the food is fantastic, and where everything feels… well, easy.
You can climb up to the Schlossberg for views of the red-roofed old town, wander through artisan markets, or explore the creative district of Lend. Plus, the food scene is something else — especially if you’re into seasonal, farm-to-table cooking.
Perfect for: Design lovers, foodies, relaxed city explorers
Flight time from London: Around 2 hours 15 minutes (via Vienna or direct seasonally)
5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why go? For colourful charm, mountain air, and a creative buzz that surprises at every turn.
Tbilisi is one of those cities that feels instantly different — a blend of old and new, east and west, tradition and creativity. It’s got winding cobblestone lanes, art nouveau buildings, sulphur bathhouses, and hilltop fortresses — all watched over by the Caucasus Mountains.
There’s a fantastic food scene here too. Think pillowy khinkali dumplings, cheesy khachapuri, and rich stews served in cosy taverns or cool modern cafés. The vibe is warm, bohemian, and always welcoming — and the city’s quirky charm makes it perfect for a long weekend that feels a little off the beaten path.
Perfect for: Adventurous couples, creatives, culture chasers
Flight time from London: Around 4.5–5 hours
Long weekend, lasting memories
The joy of a long weekend isn’t just in the destination — it’s in the reset. The change of scene. The stories you collect and the moments that break your routine. And these five cities prove that you don’t have to follow the crowds to find something extraordinary.
At Travelaire, we specialise in helping you travel better — with affordable luxury, seamless planning, and a team that knows exactly where to go (and when).
So, where’s your next escape going to be?
Let’s plan your perfect long weekend.
