Are you in desperate need to get away from it all but not sure how you can afford it? Then look no further because we might just have the answer for you. Follow our top tips to make the most out of your money and a day or two out of the office with a well deserved European city break. We've also compiled a list of things to see and do when you're there, for five top destinations.

Money saving tips

• Shop around for a great bargain. Search for holiday deals for all the latest deals with minimal time and effort.
• Book via the internet for online discounts.
• Be flexible with your dates, choosing not to travel at peak time could make a big difference.
• Opt to stay a little bit further out of town and the price will drop.
• Lower your hotel star rating for greater choice at a lower price.
• Use public transport travel cards where possible as a cheap alternative to car hire or taxis.

Paris

With its distinctive identity, compact size and punctual public transport there’s no better excuse to wander the tree lined boulevards and enchanting backstreets of this romanticised city. This fashion conscious capital has something for everyone, from architectural icons to wide open greenery, trendy bars to cosy cafes.

• Climb the Eiffel Tower; built in 1889, at the top of this 300m tower your line of vision can stretch to 65km on a good day.
• Discover Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
• Delve into the gothic architecture of the Cathedrale Notre-Dame.
• Relax on a sightseeing boat down the Seine.
• Watch a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a beautiful city best enjoyed by bike to explore the network of canals and houses, discovering something new at every turn. Wonder the amazing architecture and take well deserved breaks in the waterfront cafes for a laid-back break.

• See the works of Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum.
• Meander down the Negen Straatjes, nine alleys lined with shops and cafes.
• In the city centre visit the Anne Frankhuis, to see the secret hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary and told the story of the eight people in hiding and those who helped them during the war.
• Visit Amsterdam’s main square, the Dam Square, around which the city grew and now plays host to all kinds of markets and events.
• The Oude Kerk gothic basilica with a number of preserved treasures is worth a visit.

Brussels

With its bars, restaurants and museums packed close together within the petit ring, which follows the path of the 14th century city walls, along with its temperate climate and narrow cobbled streets, this multicultural city has more to offer than just its exquisite beer and chocolate.

• Stumble across the beautiful central square, the Grand Place. This medieval square is surrounded by historic buildings, dating from the 17th century, and pavement cafes.
• For great beer and welcoming hosts, visit the Cantillon Brewery.
• The Horta Museum is a museum and art gallery with a difference. It is housed in the self designed home of one of the founders of Art Nouveau, Victor Horta.
• Stroll down Avenue Louise for fantastic shopping and fine restaurants.
• Take some time to explore the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral; the beautiful Brabant Gothic Cathedral in the centre of the Upper Town is worth a visit with its spectacular stained glass windows from the 16th century and its baroque pulpit.

Barcelona

Barcelona has something for everyone to enjoy, from a relaxed beach holiday to the cultural art scene and the buzzing nightlife. Barcelona has a very modern feel to it despite its gothic architecture. The city is best explored by foot, take time to wander between the iconic landmarks and stumble across unexpected sights on the back streets.

• View Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Its eight squires have such an impact on Barcelona’s sky line and as a result it has become quite the symbol of the city.
• In the centre of Barcelona is a 1km long thoroughfare for pedestrians. It runs from Placa de Catalunya to the ocean, so a stroll down La Rambla is highly recommended.
• With a dominating, elaborate façade the Barcelona Cathedral in the old town can’t be missed.
• After soaking up the city centre sights make your way to the Parc de la Ciutadella to relax in Barcelona’s largest park that contains a zoo and two museums.
• Visit the Museu Picasso to see Picasso’s rise to fame with this vast collection of artwork, starting with his works at the age of 13.

Dublin

Dublin has become one of the most popular capitals in Europe, with its perfect mix of customary and contemporary Irish life. On one hand the city is full of history with Viking remains, religious sites, museums and traditional pubs with busking fiddlers. On the other, designer shopping followed by trendy bars and clubs.

• Explore the peaceful area of Dublin Castle.
• At any time, day or night, amble down the ancient cobbled streets of Temple Bar for a vast choice of places to eat and drink.
• Phoenix Park is the largest city park in Europe and with its zoo and various monuments it is well worth a visit.
• An exhibition at a brewery and a complimentary pint to sample, what more could you ask for, at the Guinness Storehouse.
• The National Gallery at the Trade Fair Palace houses a large collection of modern and contemporary art.