Fancy a break somewhere outside of the rain and drain of Exeter? Need to unwind after the stress of exam season? Why not take a break and explore somewhere a bit further afield? Here’s a list of hidden gems in and around Europe. They’re only a short plane ride away…
Kraków
Perhaps advantageously out of the Eurozone, Poland’s second city offers culture vultures everything they want in bucketloads: architecture, history and tradition. Its countless and affordable pubs and bars explain its growing reputation as a stag and hen getaway, but the mystifying medieval city of Kraków has plenty more to entertain you than just cheap food and beer.
Dresden
If you’re looking for a slice of high culture, forget Berlin and Munich – Dresden should be at the top of your list. All but obliterated by WWII bombing, the German Baroque masterpiece on the banks of the Elbe has regained much of its classical charm through years of rebuilding, and its bakeries and boat trips make it a must if you’re going Deutsch this winter.
Strasbourg
The self-proclaimed Capitale de Noël may be closing down its legendary markets for another year, but a visit French and German cultures and its looming cathedral, winding streets and hearty places to eat and drink might make you think of coming back next Christmas, should you feel your life needs an overdose of twinkly lights and animatronic Santa Clauses.
Dublin
Fly direct from Exeter to the Irish capital, whose legendary hospitality and list of things to do are quickly cementing its status as a major European destination. Temple Bar’s famous pubs, full of live music and merriment, are probably at their most inviting in the winter and there’s no language barrier here either, except when conversing with drunk Irishmen.
Fez
Perhaps you’re fed up of leftover mince pies and pretending you’re interested in how other people’s Christmases and New Years went – it’s been a month people – in which case changing cultures might be a welcome escape. Far cooler now than in its blistering summers, the sights, smells and sounds of one of Morocco’s star cities will make a change from the drizzle and damp at home. If you fancy escaping the tourists of Marrakesh, then the cultural wonder Fez is the place for you.
