How to Book a UK Holiday on a Budget
Saving money doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on a great holiday and our guide on how...
by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
Looking for the best city break destinations in the UK? Whether you’re after history, culture or somewhere scenic to unwind, there’s a city for every kind of getaway.
City breaks continue to be one of the most popular ways to explore the UK! Our 2025 Sykes Staycation Index found that 49% of Brits choose them in their top five breaks, which is up from 37% in 2024, showing their steady growth in popularity.
From historic streets and riverside strolls to vibrant food scenes and iconic landmarks, each destination offers something unique for everyone to enjoy. No wonder it’s hard to narrow down your search!
That’s why we analysed search volume for UK city breaks to find which are the most popular. So, if you’re looking for real-life travel inspiration based on where people are genuinely choosing to go, you’re in the right place.
Keep scrolling to discover the best UK city break destinations you won’t want to miss…
Topping the list of the best UK city breaks is Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city which blends historic charm with a vibrant cultural scene.
Known for its dramatic architecture and iconic skyline, Edinburgh is home to some of the UK’s most recognisable landmarks, including the towering Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile that connects it to Holyrood Palace.
Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town or enjoy the green space and views from Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano that rises above the city. For those who enjoy shopping and modern attractions, the New Town offers stylish boutiques, restaurants and galleries.
Whether you’re visiting during the world-famous Fringe Festival or simply soaking up the city’s year-round appeal, Edinburgh makes for a memorable city break filled with character, history and things to discover at every turn.
Packed with charm and steeped in history, York is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country and a firm favourite when it comes to top city breaks in the UK. It also topped the list of the greatest short break destinations, as voted for by the British public.
Surrounded by ancient Roman walls and filled with winding lanes like The Shambles, it’s the ideal place to explore on foot and take in centuries of architecture and stories.
A visit wouldn’t be complete without seeing York Minster, one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Europe. The city also offers a mix of museums, including the JORVIK Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum, making it great for families and history enthusiasts alike.
With its riverside walks, cosy pubs and independent shops, York strikes a brilliant balance between old and new. Whether you’re here for the history, the food or just a relaxing few days, it’s a city that always delivers.
Often referred to as the gateway to the Highlands, Inverness is a compact and charming city that offers easy access to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Set along the banks of the River Ness, it’s a peaceful place to explore on foot, with highlights including Inverness Castle and the Victorian Market.
From here, you’re perfectly placed to take a trip to nearby Loch Ness and try your luck at spotting the famous monster, or head out into the Highlands for a day of walking, wildlife spotting or whisky tasting.
Inverness is also a great base for discovering historic sites like Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns, all within easy reach. Whether you’re after a bit of culture, scenery or a quiet escape, Inverness offers a unique mix of city and countryside in one.
A place that needs little introduction, London is one of the most exciting and diverse capitals in the world, making it a top choice for city holidays in the UK.
From iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace to world-class museums, markets and green parks, there’s something here for every type of traveller.
Whether you’re strolling along the South Bank, catching a show in the West End or exploring the independent shops and cafés of Shoreditch, London’s mix of old and new never fails to impress. Its excellent public transport also makes it easy to hop between boroughs and uncover hidden gems.
Perfect for short breaks or longer stays, London offers endless ways to fill your days, from sightseeing and shopping to food, art and nightlife. There’s simply no other place quite like it.
Famous for its Roman heritage and honey-coloured Georgian buildings, Bath is a city that oozes elegance and history. Known for many Bridgerton filming locations and for being one of the best places for a girls’ weekend away, Bath’s popularity is easy to understand.
The Roman Baths themselves are a must-see, while the stunning Bath Abbey and the iconic Royal Crescent offer plenty more architectural interest. This compact city is ideal for exploring on foot, with cobbled streets lined with boutique shops, tearooms and independent restaurants.
It’s also well known for its relaxing atmosphere, thanks in part to the Thermae Bath Spa, where you can unwind in Britain’s only natural thermal waters. Whether you’re here for the history, the shopping or simply to slow down and soak up the surroundings, Bath offers a top city break in the UK.
Northern Ireland’s capital has undergone a huge transformation in recent years, evolving into a vibrant city with a strong sense of identity. Known for its rich industrial history and links to the Titanic, it’s now home to cultural quarters, striking architecture and an ever-growing food and music scene.
Top of the list for most visitors is the Titanic Belfast, a UK bucket list attraction located in the city’s former shipyards. But there’s much more to explore, from the historic Crumlin Road Gaol to the peace walls and political murals that tell the story of the city’s past.
With friendly locals, great pubs and easy access to some of the best walks in the UK as well as natural beauty like the Causeway Coast and the Mourne Mountains, Belfast is undoubtedly one of the best UK city breaks.
Famed for its musical legacy, maritime history and unmistakable sense of character, Liverpool is a city that knows how to make an impression. Whether you’re a Beatles fan or just looking for a lively place to explore, it’s without a doubt a cool city break in the UK.
The Royal Albert Dock is a great place to start, home to museums, restaurants and bars set against the backdrop of the waterfront. For culture lovers, the Tate Liverpool and the Museum of Liverpool are well worth a visit, while football fans can tour Anfield or Goodison Park.
Compact, walkable and full of energy, Liverpool is a city where creativity and history go hand in hand. Expect friendly faces, great music and plenty to see and do.
Coming in next on our guide to the top UK city breaks is Canterbury. With its cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings and centuries of history, it’s a picture-perfect city break in the centre of Kent, one of the UK’s cheapest holiday destinations.
At its heart is the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors from all over the world. Beyond the cathedral, the city offers a relaxed pace and plenty of charm. Take a walk along the River Stour, explore the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey or simply browse the independent shops and cafés dotted throughout the city centre.
Small yet brimming with character, Canterbury is ideal for a UK city break that combines history, heritage and a touch of countryside calm.
A city known for its creativity, culture and proud industrial past, Manchester has grown into one of the UK’s most exciting cities. It’s a place where music, sport, art and innovation come together, giving it a unique energy and edge.
The city centre is packed with galleries, museums and music venues, including the Science and Industry Museum and the Manchester Art Gallery. Football fans are well catered for too, with both Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium offering behind-the-scenes tours.
It’s also the perfect place for a seasonal getaway! With some of the best Christmas Markets in the UK, making it one of the best places to visit in winter, you’re sure to have a great time all year round!
With its buzzing food scene, excellent shopping and friendly atmosphere, Manchester is perfect for a UK city break that’s full of variety.
Set on the River Avon and brimming with creativity, Bristol offers a brilliant mix of history, street art and independent spirit. Known for its maritime past, the city is home to attractions like Brunel’s SS Great Britain and the historic harbour, which now hosts lively bars, cafés and galleries.
Bristol’s distinct character shines through in areas like Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road, where you’ll find street art, including works by Banksy, and a wealth of independent shops and eateries. The Clifton Suspension Bridge, spanning the Avon Gorge, is another must-see landmark with sweeping views of the city.
Whether you’re here for culture, food, or simply to wander its eclectic neighbourhoods, Bristol makes for a unique and memorable place for city breaks in the UK.
Scotland’s largest city is bold, vibrant and packed with personality. Known for its impressive Victorian architecture and thriving cultural scene, Glasgow promises a brilliant city break in the UK that offers both substance and style.
Art and design lovers will enjoy the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, as well as the modern Riverside Museum on the banks of the Clyde. The city is also home to a buzzing live music scene, stylish restaurants and an ever-growing list of independent shops and cafés.
With friendly locals, great green spaces and easy access to the nearby Highlands and Loch Lomond, Glasgow offers a brilliant mix of city energy and outdoor adventure.
Cardiff takes the next spot in our guide to the best city breaks in the UK. As the capital of Wales, it offers a mix of history, modern culture and waterfront charm, all within easy reach of each other. It’s easy to see why Cardiff is a brilliant choice for a city break.
At its heart is Cardiff Castle, a striking landmark with Roman roots and Victorian gothic flair. Just a short walk away is the Principality Stadium, home to Welsh rugby and a major hub for concerts and events. Down by Cardiff Bay, you’ll find a more modern side to the city, with waterside restaurants, shops and attractions like the Wales Millennium Centre.
This thriving city is also within easy reach of the coast, hop on the direct train from Cardiff to Barry to experience one of the best beaches in the UK and a whole host of Gavin and Stacey filming locations.
Whether you’re visiting for sport, culture or a bit of both, Cardiff makes it easy to explore, relax and enjoy at your own pace.
With its Roman roots, medieval walls and charming black-and-white buildings, Chester is a city that feels like stepping back in time. As one of the smallest cities in the UK, it’s easily explorable on foot yet packed with character, making it ideal for a relaxing and scenic city break.
The city’s famous Rows, two-tiered shopping galleries, are home to a mix of independent shops and well-known brands, while the city walls offer a pleasant circular walk with views of the cathedral, river and amphitheatre. You’ll also find plenty of cosy cafés, riverside pubs and places to eat dotted throughout the centre.
For something a little different, Chester Zoo is one of the best in the country and sits just a short drive away. All in all, it’s a brilliant mix of history, charm and things to see and do.
Last but not least on our list of the best city breaks in the UK is Exeter. Set in the heart of Devon, Exeter is a historic city with a relaxed pace and plenty to explore.
Its striking cathedral sits at the centre, surrounded by green space, cafés and independent shops, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The city is also home to a network of underground passages, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and a blend of Roman ruins and Georgian architecture that reflect its long and varied past. Just a short stroll from the centre is the quayside, a popular spot for walking, cycling and waterside dining.
Exeter’s location also makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside or heading down to the coast where you can find some of Devon’s best beaches. Combining the best of both city and rural life, it’s the perfect choice!
The ‘rank’ was calculated using the average monthly search data from Google Keyword Planner in 2025. It takes into account the total sum of keyword variations for UK cities pertaining to holidays.
Data on the demand for UK city breaks came from the 2025 Sykes Staycation Index which was supported by consumer research of 2,000 UK adults conducted by OnePoll in April 2025.
For even more exciting places to visit this year, check out this guide covering the UK’s best holiday destinations. With plenty of UK city breaks to choose from and lots of free days out, you’re only a few clicks away from finding your next favourite staycation hotspot!
by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
I'm Rob and I joined the Sykes team in February 2024. I am a passionate writer and have always enjoyed holidays in the UK, especia...
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