Nothing beats the post Summer blues like a cheeky Autumn getaway to look forward to. There are many amazing destinations at our doorstep in Europe, waiting to be explored. Keep reading to find out about our Top 5 picks for an Autumn City Break in Europe.
- Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is well known for its sovereign heritage, cobbled streets lined with historic facades, and is the 2nd most bicycle-friendly city in the world. The beautiful city’s historical and cultural attractions have made it the second-most visited destination in the UK!
Recognised as the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh is the seat of the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the highest courts in Scotland. The city’s Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, making it rich in history and artefacts.
You can fly to Edinburgh from all major airports in Ireland, including Cork Airport and Dublin Airport, served by Citylink Routes 251 and 761/763.
Some of the main attractions in Edinburgh include:
- The Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official royal palace of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle: A historic royal castle and medieval museum
- Arthurs Seat: An ancient volcano site in Edinburgh
- Calton Hill: An exceptional viewpoint and site of many historical monuments
- The Royal Mile: The walk from Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle
- Illusion Museum: A really cool spectral museum near Edinburgh Castle
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1 hr 10 mins
Travel time from Cork Airport is 1hr 20 mins

2. Brussels
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is home to the seat of the European Parliament and the Belgian Royal Family is a wonderland to visit. Walking through the streets, you’re met with incredible buildings and sites.
Brussels is known for its exquisite cuisine and beverages, including its local waffles, chocolate, french fries and its numerous types of beers.
As well as its historical and architectural landmarks; some of them registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To top it all off, Brussels is a hub for rail, road and air traffic. Sometimes considered, together with Belgium, as the geographic, economic and cultural crossroads of Europe. Brussels will be beautiful in Autumn, with the evenings turning a bit colder and the leaves changing colour.
You can travel to Brussels from Dublin Airport daily, and it is well worth a weekend getaway.
Some things to see in Brussels:
- The Royal Palace of Brussels – Seat of the Royal Family
- European Commission/Parliament Buildings – Government buildings of the EU
- Grand Place – Historic Square in Central Brussels
- Mannekin Pis – Famous Bronze Statue in Brussels
- Atomium – Museum, an art centre and a cultural place.
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 1hr 30 mins

3. Madrid
The capital of Spain, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. Madrid is a hub of business and tourism in Spain, housing the headquarters of the UN’s World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB), the Organization of Ibero-American States (OEI), and the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB).
As well as Spain’s political capital, Madrid is Spain’s royal capital, with the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) situated in the centre of the city. Madrid is bursting with activities and sites, including the Buen Retiro Park, the Reina Sofia and Prado Museum. Enjoy amazing art museums, the Gran Via shopping district, and a thriving nightlife.
The autonomous region of Madrid also hosts cities like Toledo and Segovia, both sites oozing with history.
You can fly directly to Madrid from Dublin Airport, making it a very convenient city to travel to!
Some sites to see include:
- Retiro Park – Huge park in the City Centre with 2 leisurely lakes
- Gran Via – Shopping district in Madrid with many famous brand stores
- Segovia – Medieval town in Madrid with a massive viaduct at the entrance of the town
- Museums – The Reina Sofia and Prado are famous museums hosting artists like Picasso and Goya
- Teatro Real – The Spanish Opera, hosting magnificent operatic art performances
- Palacio Real – The Royal Palace of Spain and the city residence of the Spanish royal family
Travel time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 30 mins

4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world of culture, politics, media and science. It is Germany’s capital and largest city, bursting with a fascinating history. Not only that, but it is one of the most populous cities in Europe!
The city’s main features are the many lakes in the western and southeastern boroughs formed by the Spree, Havel, and Dahme rivers. Due to its location in the European Plain, Berlin is influenced by a temperate seasonal climate. As a result, about one-third of the city’s area comprises forests, parks, gardens, rivers, canals and lakes.
The city has numerous orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues and hosts many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe and one of the most popular worldwide. The city is also well known for its festivals, diverse architecture, nightlife, contemporary arts and very high quality of living.
Things to do:
- Brandenburg Gate – Grand classical archway and city divide
- Reichstag Building – Historic, glass-domed home of Parliament
- East Side Gallery – Section of Berlin Wall for street art
- Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe – Columns commemorating the Holocaust
- Checkpoint Charlie– Cold War and East/West border landmark
- Museum Island – Art museum and Cathedral
Travel Time from Dublin Airport is 2hrs 20 Mins

5. Venice, Italy
Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is situated on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. Venice was once a financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. And a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of Lepanto. During this period, it was also an important centre of commerce – especially for silk, grain, spices, and art from the 13th century to the end of the 17th.
The lagoon and a part of the city are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of Venice are renowned for the beauty of their settings, architecture, and artwork. In addition, Venice is known for several important artistic movements – especially during the Renaissance period.
Although the city is facing some challenges (including an excessive number of tourists and problems caused by pollution), Venice remains a top-rated tourist destination. It has been ranked the most beautiful city in the world numerous times. It has been described by the Times Online as one of Europe’s most romantic cities and by The New York Times as “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man”.
Things to do:
- Grand Canal – Canal, basilica and palace
- Rialto Bridge – Ornate footbridge over the Grand Canal
- St. Mark’s Square – Landmark basilica-dominated square
- St. Mark’s Basilica – Landmark cathedral with gilded domes
- Burano – Island of lace-making and colourful fishermen’s homes
- Murano – Museo del Vetro and glass souvenirs
- Bridge of Sighs – Iconic white-stone enclosed bridge
Flight time from Dublin Airport is 2 hrs 40 mins

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No matter where you decide to travel, you are guaranteed to find some delicious cuisine, historic landmarks, fantastic nightlife, beautiful scenery and much more!
Travelling to Dublin Airport? Travel in luxury with Citylink. Our coaches offer onboard toilets, Free WiFi, charging points, generous luggage allowances, comfortable seats and friendly and helpful drivers.
Have any queries about our services? All information about our services can be found on http://www.citylink.ie