| The festive rush is over and the time of year has come when many of us are urged to take our final days of annual leave before the 2011/12 financial year is up. A short break away from the post-Christmas slump is pretty tempting but without a fortnight to trek somewhere exotic, where are the top places to spend a short break in Europe? |
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| In a city as beautiful as Rome, the weather will be the last thing on your mind. In true Italian style, prepare to be swept away by breathtaking architecture and fabulous food on Rome holidays. Average temperatures during the months of February and March are slightly warmer than the UK, at about 10 degrees C and are perfect for discovering the historical sites in cosy knitwear with a loved one. |
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| The Colosseum is often top of tourists' sightseeing lists, and rightly so. The enormous building dates back as far as AD 72, originally named the Flavian Amphitheatre. The Colosseum was home to some of the most gory gladiator battles; fights often involved animals and were arranged for mass entertainment with enough room to accommodate over 50,000 people. Viewing this splendid piece of historic architecture is an opportunity not to be missed. It is located close to the Roman Forum (a central area with Rome), an ideal location for exploring other places of interest. |
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| When in Rome... you must try an authentic Italian pizza. Don't expect deep pan pepperoni, a taste of the most simplistic traditional Italian margherita pizza will leave you wondering why the world even attempted to match this amazing dish. Prepare to be blown away. For other tastes of the country's cuisine choose a truly romantic restaurant, such as Ad Hoc or Ristorante Santa Cristina al Quirinale, and enjoy. |
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| Venture to antique markets, eat Gelato and taste true coffee while reading a perfect piece of literature. What could be a better way to escape? |
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| If you prefer to jet off to warmer climes, Portugal is a European destination with stunning year-round sunshine. Portugal is the ideal choice for those who love to soak up the sun on award-winning beaches with an array of watersports, golf courses, nature and wildlife. |
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| Portugal holidays are known for being particularly family friendly, offering activities to suit all age groups and interests. The contrasting sparkling sea and calming countryside sit side by side on this idealistic island, with the best of both worlds literally at your feet. |
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| The Algarve is a convenient location for a short break. This sporting haven is also spotted with waterparks galore as well as a Zoomarine and opportunities to try out quad biking. For an action-packed break in stunning surroundings, you can't go far wrong with Portugal holidays. |
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| While Spain holidays are very common, travelling to the country during the late winter months is relatively uncommon. This makes it far quieter than your average summertime in Spain trip and is an excellent break away from the bustle of daily life. Temperatures in Spain start rising in late February to March, easily reaching 18 to 20 degrees C; enjoy them by sipping Sangria in the cosmopolitan Spanish city of culture. |
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| Although Madrid oozes a modern and metropolitan ambience, it is still both geographically and culturally the heart of Spain. Do not miss the opportunity to visit Madrid's infamous array of art museums. Whether your appreciation lies with medieval or 20th Century art, the Golden Triangle of Art near Paseo del Prado is your port of call. |
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| End your days relaxing in some of the friendliest taverns, bars and restaurants around with welcoming locals, wonderful wine and fabulous food. |
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