Top 5 Stylish Winter City Breaks

Now that the leaves have started to turn those gorgeous shades of gold and deep red, it’s time to get planning! Soon those leaves will be frosty, which means winter is coming, which means….it’s time for your winter city break. Obviously.

Need some inspiration?

These are my top five stylish weekend breaks for the upcoming season…

#1 Budapest

This place is perfect for those who don’t want to spend a fortune. Accommodation is cheap, food is cheap, the flights are cheap – get the idea?

I went a few years ago for my birthday (a perfect excuse to book another trip!) and managed to stay in a cute boutique with its own courtyard, to go to the ballet, eat out for the whole weekend and to sightsee (including a visit to the spa) for £100. Bargain, eh?

What makes it so stylish? The gorgeous architecture and cultural scene. Include a visit to Szchenyi to experience the thermal baths, including the heated outdoor one where you can sit in the warm while the snowflakes fall. Dreamy.

Travel Hack Tip: Compare booking as a package Vs. booking flights and your accommodation separately. I’d normally recommend the latter, but actually picked up a bargain deal on Lastminute.com.

#2 Copenhagen

The capital city of Denmark is an affordable one to reach thanks to budget airlines like easyJet. Accommodation is also pretty reasonable. However, be prepared to pay more than you’re probably used to for food, drink and activities. That said, it’s perfect for a weekend break as there’s lots to see and do.

What makes it so stylish? The buildings, the boats and not to mention the incredibly fashionable Danes. If you love art you’ll be in your element here.

Travel Hack Tip: Go an evening jazz boat tour to see a different side of the city and to mix with the super fun locals. You’ll find more of our Copenhagen recommendations here.

#3 Reykjavik

If you’re a regular reader here at The Travel Hack you’ll know this is one of Monica’s fave cities. I went a few years ago in January and absolutely loved it too. Iceland is not as expensive as you might think. I paid £80 for a city centre apartment for a whole week and used a budget airline to get there.

There’s so much to see and do (Blue Lagoon Spa, Gulfoss waterfall etc), but the ultimate reason to visit is for the Northern Lights. They are incredible.

What makes it so stylish? Nature. The landscape looks like a magazine setting and the snow falls thick and fast. It’s the perfect backdrop to model your new winter coat.

Travel Hack Tip: Read all of these Travel Hack posts for recommendations, tips and pointers for your trip to Iceland. Seriously, we’ve got you covered!

#4 New York

You can’t get more iconic than NYC! Travel in late December/January and you have a good chance of seeing blankets of snow fall from the sky. There are loads of outdoor ice-skating rinks at famous spots like Central Park and the Rockerfeller Centre.

What makes it so stylish? It’s featured in so many movies and programmes, so it’s easy to feel like Carrie from Sexy and the City! There are also plenty of chic NYC hotels and apartments to help you get your style fix.

Travel Hack Tip: Book your flights sooner rather than later as it’s a popular time to travel. See more of our NYC recommendations here.

#5 Gothenburg

Cold weather? Tick! Fashionable locals? Double tick! Cheap flights? Tick! Gothenburg in Sweden is a perfect choice for a winter city break. Traditional Christmas markets spill out onto the streets, serving tempting drinks and sweet treats, as well as adorable Christmas presents.

What makes it so stylish? Everything! It’s one of those places that oozes classiness without even trying.

Travel Hack Tip: Use our Ultimate Guide to Gothenburg for our recommendations and read more here.

Where are you planning to visit this winter?