Five long weekend escapes

Kick back in Croatia

Average flight time: Three hours

It takes just under three hours to fly to Europe’s latest up-and-comer, and it’s worth it. Escape into Croatia's wilderness for a long weekend digi-detox – ditch the smartphones for hikes on mountain paths and dips in the Adriatic. And don’t worry, a Croatian break isn’t just for Bear Grylls types. In Dubrovnik, walk the city walls, explore the local museums, or take a Game of Thrones tour.

Soak up the sun in Spain

Average flight time: Two hours

There’s plenty to do on a long weekend in Spain. Football fans flock to Madrid and Barcelona, while Marbella is a hen party favourite – you might even run into the cast of The Only Way is Essex at the bar. The Balearics, meanwhile, are perfect for both party-goers and those who want to relax by the pool. The islands are guaranteed sun spots in the summer, so it’s easy to spend three or four days working on your tan.

Live simply in Italy

Average flight time: Two-and-a-half hours

Italy is home to one of the world’s quintessential city breaks, but Rome isn’t the only option if you’re itching for a few days in the birthplace of pizza, pasta, and piazzas. Consider Tuscany, where you can indulge in long, slow lunches beneath the sun. Or, head out on bike rides through sprawling vineyards and tiny villages, and tick off big names like Pisa and Florence. Whichever way you spend your time, it only takes a short break in Italy to reconnect with the simple things in life.

Spend time with the kids in Portugal

Average flight time: Two-and-a-half hours

You can expect temperatures in Portugal to be in the 20s for almost the entire year, so summers are deliciously warm. If you’re taking the kids with you, The Algarve is a great option for short beach breaks – loads of the golden stretches of sand across this region are kid-friendly, and the whole family can have a go at watersports like snorkelling when you’re tired of building sandcastles. Meanwhile, golfers can tee off at one of the many world-class courses on offer.

Go back in time in Greece

Average flight time: Three-and-a-half hours

Greece and its surrounding islands are the furthest away for a long weekend, but it's worth making the journey. In Crete you’ve got something to keep everybody happy. Beach bums will love the 650km of coastline on offer, while history buffs are in their element. The island is over 4,000 years old, and considered the home of the first modern European society. And, if that wasn’t enough, it’s even been immortalised forever as the location in the Greek Myth of Theseus and the Minotaur.

Fancy a long weekend in the sun?

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Author: Lizzie Butler