There are few things more relaxing than spending a couple of days rejuvenating in a spa and one particular city is synonymous with high-quality, affordable spas: Budapest. Split into two sections, Buda and Pest, the Hungarian capital offers picturesque views to the western side of the Danube and excellent shopping facilities and restaurants to the east.
Those who would rather escape from the city and enjoy the peaceful countryside should consider renting a cottage in Tuscany or the Dordogne and hiring bicycles to explore the local markets and towns.
The adventurous trip
Croatia has become a hot spot for sailing trips and it is possible for travellers to join tours with experienced sailors or to charter a boat and navigate their own route. Start from the ancient city of Pula on the Istrian peninsula and journey south towards the country's many islands, enjoying their endemic flora and fauna along the way.
Other groups may prefer InterRailing. For a competitive set price one rail pass can provide up to 1 month's access to 30 different countries as diverse as Montenegro and Sweden, giving the traveller ultimate control and flexibility over the itinerary of a lifetime and providing numerous opportunities for excitement, from snowboarding in Zermatt (Switzerland) and hiking in Ohrid (Macedonia) to hot air ballooning in Göreme (Turkey) and husky sledding in Enontekio (Finland). Whatever the adventure, be sure to arrange suitable holiday insurance before travelling.
The cultured trip
Owing to their extensive history; European cities showcase a range of arts, architectures, religions and cuisines which can accommodate any passions and preferences. Rome, Paris and Greece are all famous for their landmarks and glimpses into their respective countries' changing leaderships and attitudes throughout civilization. Less popular, but equally brilliant, alternatives include: Vienna, for music lovers; Istanbul, for spiritualists; Berlin, for museum fanatics; Barcelona, for aspiring artists; Venice, for costumiers; and Tallinn for would-be architects. Each provides a unique look at the city's distinct personality, highlighting the enormous breadth of cultures in this one small land mass.