LILLE

The Cultural Capital of Europe 2004 is a mere 1hr 40 mins away from London by Eurostar. A real treat awaits - designer shops on cobbled streets, Flemmish facades, fine paintings at the Musee des Beaux Arts and brilliant restaurants. Les Heures Bleues has to be experienced to be believed - artists from across the world fill the streets and squares as they perform in parades, concerts and festivals for the whole weekend.

PRAGUE

Prague is fast becoming a very popular destination for us Brits and no wonder when you consider its fairytale qualities. Whether you're after romance in candle-lit restaurant or a boogie in a lively bar, this enchanting city is guaranteed to have plenty to offer. Stroll across 14th century Charles Bridge up to the green and white Prague Castle and take in numerous palaces, tiny mediaeval cottages and the spectacular St Vitus Cathedral.

AMSTERDAM

Set aside your clichés about clogs, windmills, red light districts and smoking funny substances because there's much more to Amsterdam than this. A city of canals crossed with wonderful bridges and lined with tall, gabled houses, there's something for everyone, whether you want to indulge in the great nightlife or simply soak up the atmosphere and chill out during the day. The Van Gogh museum, Rijksmuseum and Rembrandt's house will add some classy culture to your trip.

VENICE

Stunning sights like the Rialto Bridge, Doge's Palace and St Mark's Square will make a trip to Venice unforgettable. Exploring quaint shops and sampling delicacies in enticing restaurants should also be added to your 'to do' list. And don't forget a ride on a waterbus or an ice cream from the numerous gelateries of the city. Totally unique, Venice is ideal for a short break.

BARCELONA

If you're after a bustling, lively and fun short break, then Barcelona is for you. Being on the shores of the Mediterranean the climate is fantastic and there's some pretty impressive Gaudi and gothic architecture about to wow your eyes. The nightlife of the Olympic area is legendary, but for a more sedate experience, don't miss Barcelona's impressive modern art museums.

STRASBOURG

For a break with a difference, Strasbourg is not to be missed. This cosmopolitan, bustling French city has loads to see and do, from its rippling canals and mediaeval bridges to La Petite France, a beautiful quarter of the city boasting a collection of half-timbered houses in various pastel shades. Fancy some exercise? Then climb to the top of the impressive Notre Dame cathedral with its kaleidoscopic rose window. The spectacular views from the top are well worth the effort.

MILAN

You can't get much more stylish than Milan which is known throughout the world as a leader in high fashion and design excellence. If this is your bag, you'll love Via Montenapoleone, a famous street where many of the world's leading Italian and international fashion designers work. Many great festivals and events are held in and around the city throughout the year and the excellent nearby lakes offer superb facilities for visitors. Don't miss the enormous Milan Duomo, the third largest cathedral in the world, or the numerous art galleries and museums either.

STOCKHOLM

This amazing place has everything you'd expect from a capital city and although vibrant and modern, still maintains its historic charm. Clear, clean water is ever present in Stockholm as it is situated near the beautiful Lake Malaren and built across 14 islands. So don't be surprised if you see people swimming and fishing in the middle of the city. Taking a walk down the cobbled-stoned streets of Gamla Stan (the old town) is sure to impress, as too will the Royal Castle and open-air museum and zoo.

BERLIN

East meets west in Berlin, which has a fascinating history and plenty of opportunities to explore it. Zoological Gardens, observatories and lots of opera, theatre, ballet, cabaret and readings by well-known writers will keep you entertained all day. The city has fantastic cafes, pubs and restaurants pretty much everywhere you turn, and there's something for every budget, whether you're on a shoestring or can afford to splash out. The same goes for the impressive nightlife which reflects the cosmopolitan vibrancy of this fascinating city.

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