Ideal City Breaks for Women in Europe

Regardless of whether you splash the cash on a non-stop shopping trip or treat yourself to a self-indulgent spa weekend, every girl deserves a city break every now and again. The rejuvenating powers of just a few days away can work wonders, and help banish the stresses of modern life.

The only problem you might encounter is deciding where to go. But thankfully, the variety and diversity of Europe has something to suit all kinds of traveller. With this in mind, here are some ideal city break destinations perfect for women.

Reykjavik, Iceland

For the past six years, Iceland has topped the World Economic Forum’s gender gap index, while the Economist recently named this Nordic country the world’s best place for working women. Therefore, on a visit to the capital city of Reykjavik, you can expect nothing but open arms and equality.

In terms of things to see and do, the main shopping street of Skólavödustígur boasts a range of local boutiques, designer stores, and jewelery studios. As you would expect from a Scandinavian country, there is a heavy emphasis on fashionable yet funky interior design too.

​Image by J_blu used under Creative Commons license CC BY 2.0

Following on from any retail therapy, you can take advantage of Reykjavik’s legendary nightlife, which doesn’t get going until the early hours. A trip to one of Iceland’s geothermal swimming pools or steam baths is a reinvigorating idea for the next day.

Lisbon, Portugal

Despite the fact that women didn’t earn full voting rights until 1975, Portugal has come a long way since. Today, women make up about 47 per cent of the working population and the gender gap in professional occupations is narrowing.

Choose to visit the capital Lisbon and you will bear witness to one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe, which manages to strike a perfect balance between age-old charisma and modern-day thinking.

Jump on a vintage tram and make your way to the cultural barrios (neighbourhood) of Chaido. You don’t have to travel far for a fix of the beach either, with several captivating coastal areas within easy reach.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

You will struggle to find a more charming or compelling place in Europe than the UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik. It also feels incredible safe thanks to Croatia’s low crime rate and the fact you will be rubbing shoulders with several other visitors wondering around the tightly packed side streets.

​Image by fjakone used under Creative Commons license CC BY 2.0

Top of any itinerary has got to be strolling along the Dubrovnik City Wall, which winds its way around an old town featuring bright red rooftops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the outlying islands either. Both Lokrum and Mljet, which boast secluded bays with aqua blue water, are just a short boat trip away.

Of all the potential places to visit in Europe, picking just one is rather tricky. But hopefully these three female-friendly suggestions have provided enough inspiration for you to book a city break sooner rather than later.