Searching for summer holidays can become a tedious cycle each spring, especially when you want to push yourself outside your comfort zone, letting go of old favourite destinations and embracing the unknown.
But it doesn't have to be so tantalisingly tricky. Travel experts have shared with GB News the European city breaks they believe have been swept under the carpet or missed off people's lists.
Often, travellers can get swept up in the romance of Paris, or the summer heat of Barcelona or Rome. However, hundreds of tourist traps can ensnare these cities, driving Britons to opt for a more refreshing town instead.
Travel connoisseur Jiayi Wang, and CEO of VIP Holiday Booker Darijo Saric weighed in on what more mature travellers over 50 might want to explore this summer.
And, as Jiayi puts it, "there is nothing like European towns for romantic city breaks".
The beating heart - and shore - of the south of France, Nice boasts a beautiful mixture of all sorts of French culture
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Nice, France
The beating heart - and shore - of the south of France, Nice boasts a beautiful mixture of French culture. From sandy beaches to Roman architecture, the city offers it all.
"The seafront Promenade des Anglais is flat, shaded, and lined with Belle Époque cafés where you watch the light slip behind the Baie des Anges," Jiayi said.
"Take the fifteen-minute train to Villefranche-sur-Mer for a quieter cove, linger in Chagall’s chapel back in town, and finish with socca at the market; two or three nights is plenty," the expert added.
Just over two hours away by plane, you won't have to spend long up in the air to snap up a morning croissant while basking in the seashore sun.
Bari, Italy
Travel a little further south of the equator, and you'll find another hidden gem. Bari offers its visitors an "easy beach-plus-baroque rhythm". Decorated with a quaint old town, tourists are encouraged to embrace Italian delicacies, including the freshly crafted street pasta.
Afterwards, explorers are urged to head down to ride the short coastal train to Polignano a Mare for gorgeous limestone cliffs and Adriatic swims.
You'll only have to spend just under three hours on the plane from London to find yourself engulfed in historic architecture, such as the Basilica di San Nicola, houses scattered around the Bari Vecchia, as well as the Lungomare.
Perfect for older explorers, the terrain is fairly gentle, and you won't have to take too many steps to discover something new.
Split, Croatia
Considered an "ideal city break destination for those who enjoy history, beach breaks, and convenience", the capital city's Old Town has been constructed around Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As a result, the town is a perfect place to explore for history lovers, and the relaxed Mediterranean ambience is just a "cherry on top", Darijo said.
Split Airport is very close to the centre, making the town easily accessible compared to other European cities.
However, if you'd prefer a place with a tad more privacy, the expert advised staying in a villa in the neighbouring coastal town of Kastela.
"It’s even closer to the airport and offers a comfortable and quiet base with the flexibility to explore Split and its surroundings at your own pace," he explained.
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Famous for its world-renowned oranges, Seville accommodates a gentle stroll while exploring iconic landmarks
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Seville, Spain
Again, just under three hours by plane from London Gatwick, history lovers can be wrapped up in endless Mudéjar tiles, Roman pillars, and flamenco throughout the evening.
"I like starting at the Alcázar, then strolling slowly toward the cathedral’s Giralda tower and riverside Triana for ceramics," Jiayi said.
Famous for its world-renowned oranges, Seville accommodates a gentle stroll while exploring iconic landmarks from the Royal Alcazar to the Seville Cathedral.
And, if you would prefer a green getaway, you won't even need to hire a car to visit Carmona, a small town with plenty of historic palaces, overlooking the whole of Andalusia.
