subject: Top 5 city breaks for culture vultures [print this page] Everyone has their own preference for things that make up a great holiday, but many cities across the world have established themselves as excellent destinations for cultural city breaks - whether you're keen to discover their remarkable history or get involved in their contemporary social scene.
From ancient European capitals strewn with fascinating monuments to modern style capitals of the USA, city breaks are a chance to experience a new culture and try out new experiences. Thanks to cheap flights and holiday packages, you could also find taking a number of weekend city breaks throughout the year is a great alternative to traditional holidays.
One of the most enduringly popular destinations for culture seekers, there's a reason Rome is known as the 'Eternal City.' The Italian capital has been a major global city for more than 2,000 years, from the reign of the Roman Empire to the emergence of the Vatican, and every stage of its fascinating history acts as a major pull to tourists. If you're just spending the weekend in Rome, see the major sights such as the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps and consider paying a trip to Vatican City - not technically a part of Rome, this independent city state is nevertheless still a key part of many itineraries.
For another historic Italian gem, head to the north of the country to experience the floating city of Venice for yourself. Its Renaissance buildings and romantic canals offer a very different type of city break to Rome, and the local art galleries are among the best in the world.
Italy isn't the only European city brimming with culture, of course, and French capital Paris is still a major stop-off for those visiting the continent for the first time. This incredibly photogenic city offers as much outdoors as it does inside, whether you choose to spend a day exploring the immense halls of the Louvre Museum or just enjoying a stroll between famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Another European capital that's emerged as a major location for city breaks in recent years is Prague. The Czech Republic has a long and intriguing history, and bustling Prague has historical attractions at every turn - from majestic Prague Castle to the labyrinth of medieval streets that comprise Stare Mesto, the Old Town.
Finally, no list of cultural cities would be complete without a trip to New York. The city that never sleeps' encapsulates everything that's appealing about international cities and the United States in particular, and you'll find attractions and entertainments to please all tastes - whether you're keen to take in a Broadway show or head to the top of the Empire State Building to see the incredible city from above.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.
