When it comes to holiday travel we have options, and quite a few of them at that. Brochures may tout the latest flight and package deals, but that’s not the only way to take a holiday, so why not consider where you can go, and what you’ll see if you decide to travel by road, rail or sea. Here are some of our ideas for last minute European breaks for all those that don’t like to fly.
Close To Home
Thanks to good ferry connections you don’t have to stray too far from home for a European break to remember. Poole and Portsmouth Ports on the South coast, will connect you with the beautiful islands of Jersey and Guernsey, where you can enjoy the striking coastline, famous Jersey flowers, and a wealth of activities, spas, and Michelin starred dining.
You can also leave the Welsh coastline behind and head to Ireland, for a sightseeing short break or longer holiday. Irishferries.com offer bookings between Holyhead and Dublin, and a route between Pembroke and Rosslare. Stena Line also offer routes taking in Rosslare, Dublin and Belfast in Northern Ireland. Enjoy a trip down the famous Grafton Street in Dublin, or visit the World’s largest Titanic Exhibition in Belfast, there is plenty to do for all the family.
Mini Cruises
Enjoy all the fun of life at sea on a short mini cruise to Europe. Relax on-board ship with en-suite cabins, live entertainment, and food and drink options to satisfy all your needs. Facilities may vary depending on the operator, but there will be plenty to keep you entertained, and plenty of time in port to enjoy shopping, a meal, or some of the local tourist attractions on offer.
DFDS Seaways offer 2 night mini cruises to Amsterdam, with up to 5 hours to explore the city, while Brittany Ferries offer 2 night mini cruises from the UK to Santander. The ship berths in the city centre, so there’s no hassle and plenty of time to explore, whether you want to explore one of the natural parks, or sample some of their famous Cocido Montanes stew.
Eurostar
One of the best construction projects for business and holidaymakers alike, a trip on one of these high speed trains will get you to Paris in under 3 hours, with Disneyland Paris also available on indirect, and direct services. The station there is just minutes from the main resort hotels and theme parks.
There are also routes timetabled that will take you to Lille, and direct to the French Alps during ski season. Not forgetting the Eurostar route to Brussels, which will mean you’re within easy reach of fine architecture, museums, unique restaurants and bistros, and of course their world renowned chocolate.
Luxury Rail Rides
Last but by no means least, there is the option of a rail ride in style – designed for maximum comfort, and service, the trips offered by specialists such as Planet Rail look awe inspiring. Their tailor made holidays include trips on the Belmond Orient Express, and an escape to a Winter wonderland, on a Glacier Express, and Scenic Switzerland trip. The views of mountains and lakes make this well worth investigating as a potential last minute break.
These are just some of the places that your European travel insurance will get you, but if you need some more inspiration, and don’t mind a bit more planning, maybe you should turn to search engines, and type in unusual places to stay in Europe, and you could end up with one unique last minute break.
