City breaks are the ideal mini-holiday: a few days abroad and then back to your own bed.
There’s an abundance of charming locations for a quick getaway, but popular spots can quickly become overcrowded with fellow tourists. Europe boasts some of the most stunning and luxurious city breaks globally, but in sought-after destinations like Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Paris, prices can be high.
TrustedHousesitters, a pet sitting platform, have unveiled the priciest European destinations for accommodation and provided tips on how you can save money globe-trotting by house sitting.
According to these professionals, Basel is the top city break. This Swiss city, renowned for hosting Art Basel, the world’s leading annual art show, draws crowds from around the globe each summer
Celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt are known to mingle with artists, art collectors, and millionaire buyers at this event, reports the Express.
Read on for the platform’s selection of expensive European destinations that are worth every penny.
Top five luxury holiday spots
1. Basel, Switzerland – Average accommodation cost: £208 per night
Basel has gained fame as a haven for art enthusiasts, with Art Basel attracting hundreds of celebrities annually. Whether it’s visiting one of the over 40 museums, exploring the enchanting Old Town with its medieval buildings and cobbled streets, or strolling along the Rhine River banks, there’s something for all art and culture aficionados.
Local treats: Try Basel’s renowned lackerli, a spiced, nutty gingerbread, or immerse yourself in the city’s lively cafe culture with fresh pastries and hot chocolate.
Pet-sitting bonus: Reside in one of Basel’s stunning homes while looking after a local’s pet, allowing you to discover the artistic gems and cultural wealth.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Average accommodation cost: £253 per night
Stroll around Amsterdam’s maze of scenic canals, visit the globally-renowned Rijksmuseum, or explore the Anne Frank House. This dynamic city is a fusion of history and modernity, where you can cycle along the canals during the day and unwind in a cosy cafe or coffeeshop at night.
Local treats: Relish Dutch delights like stroopwafels or hearty bitterballen with a chilled local beer, and make sure to try some haring (raw herring), a traditional snack.
Pet-sitting bonus: Exchange pricey hotels for a canal-side home while caring for a local’s cat or dog, giving you the opportunity to live like a ‘true’ Amsterdammer in this captivating city.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland Average accommodation cost: £210 per night
Iceland is a country of extremes – visit the geothermal Blue Lagoon, witness the Northern Lights, or explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Golden Circle. Reykjavik, the capital, is a gateway to adventure.
Local treats: Enjoy Iceland’s fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, like lamb stew, skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product), or freshly caught Atlantic fish.
Pet-sitting perk: Imagine residing in a cosy Icelandic home, experiencing the country’s natural wonders while looking after a local pet. Picture yourself taking long walks with a friendly dog through volcanic landscapes or along black-sand beaches.
4. Paris, France Average accommodation cost: £301 per night
Discover the City of Light and its iconic landmarks-the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The city of love, art and fashion has an abundance to offer.
Local delicacies: Paris is renowned for its culinary excellence. Savour flaky croissants in the morning, feast on escargot, or sip wine and eat cheese whilst indulging in a classic coq au vin at a bustling Parisian bistro.
Pet-sitting perk: Why fork out for sky-high prices for a Parisian hotel when you can stay in a local chic apartment, with the added bonus of caring for a charming French cat or dog?
5. Venice, Italy – Average accommodation cost: £368 per night
Venice is the epitome of romance, with its labyrinth of canals, iconic gondolas, and award-winning architecture. Explore the magnificent Piazza San Marco and the grand Basilica, or get lost in the quieter alleys to discover hidden gems like artisan workshops and quaint trattorias.
Local delicacies: Indulge in Venetian seafood dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or savour a rich plate of risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto). Pair your meal with a glass of local Prosecco to complete the local experience.
Pet-sitting advantage: Swap the high hotel costs of Venice for a local residence, where you can savour the serene beauty of the canals, away from the usual tourist throngs.
