AUTUMN LEAVES
Six European cities that are still warm in September and October – with football tours and cheap bars
Plus, one sunny destination perfect for art lovers
AUTUMN can be the best time for a European city break – when the weather is often glorious, but not too hot, and the streets are less crowded.
Many destinations also have a lovely beach to relax at after a day’s sightseeing.
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Lisa Minot suggests some cities that are just stunning to visit this month or next . . .
NICE
September 24C
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WITH the celebrities back home, the French Riviera and stunning coastal city of Nice are perfect for a September getaway.
We’ve been flocking to the Cote d’Azur for centuries and its stunning beachfront promenade, the Promenade des Anglais, was paid for by English aristocrats.
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Snaking 4.3 miles along the Mediterranean, it’s the perfect place to start your break — with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Stroll the Old Town’s narrow, winding streets and pick up fresh fruit, cheese and flowers at the Cours Saleya market which is open every day but Monday.
GO: Three nights’ room-only at the 4H Villa Bougainville is from £294pp including flights from Luton on September 30. For details, see .
NAPLES
September 27C
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THIS intoxicating city in southern Italy is hot enough in September to soak up sun and sea breezes.
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Just a short trip from the city are the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Book a guided tour to bring the ruins to life.
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In Naples itself, the National Archaeological Museum has an extensive collection of Roman artifacts to marvel at.
The Spaccanapoli district’s narr- ow streets wind through the city centre, with fabulous shops, cafes and restaurants.
To explore a lesser known side of the city, head underground at Naples Sotterranea to tour its labyrinth of ancient aqueducts, caves and tunnels.
GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 4H Palazzo Salgar is from £242pp flying from Luton on September 23. See .
MADRID
September 26C
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WITH the searing heat of summer fading, it’s still a very toasty 26C in the Spanish capital in September.
Exploring its grand boulevards, markets and museums is much more manageable.
Art lovers should head for the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums for works by Picasso and Dali. Foodies will adore fresh produce on sale at Mercado de San Miguel.
Take a stroll through one of the city’s glorious parks, including El Retiro with its thousands of trees and ornamental boating lake.
Footie fans should book a guided tour of the Bernabeu, home to Real Madrid. The £28 experience takes in the dressing rooms, the club’s impressive trophy collection and, of course, the hallowed pitch.
GO: Four nights’ B&B at the 4H Sercotel Alcala 611 is from £372pp from Gatwick on September 29. Includes hand luggage and transfers. See .
ATHENS
October 24C
ATHENS may be a magnet for history buffs but the Greek capital’s buzzing nightlife will delight those who love to party. Of course, a must is the Acropolis.
But to enjoy the ancient citadel, including the Parthenon, without the crowds, go in the early morning or late afternoon — consider a guided tour if you want to skip the long lines.
For the best nightlife, hit the Gazi-Keramikos neighbourhood, known for its quirky bars, clubs, restaurants and live music. For a bird’s-eye city view, take the funicular ride up Mount Lycabettus.
GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3H Dave Red Athens — Son Of A Brown is from £279pp from Gatwick on October 15. Call 0208 492 6868 or see .
VALENCIA
October 24C
ONE of my favourite Spanish cities, Valencia has it all — beautiful beaches, a characterful old town and oodles of green space.
Perfect for an autumn or spring break, the town and beaches are connected by the stunning Turia Gardens — a former riverbed that snakes between the two and is ideal for strolling or cycling or for discovering the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences with its aquarium, museums and opera house.
The gothic cathedral in the Old Town is said to house the Holy Grail — and for a panoramic city view, climb the Micalet Tower.
Nearby is the Albufera Natural Park, Spain’s largest freshwater lagoon and near the rice paddies that provide the main ingredient for the city’s legendary paella dish.
GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3H Ilunion Aqua 3 is from £185pp including flights from Bristol on October 14. See .
LISBON
October 23C
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EXPLORE the Portuguese capital’s history in the Alfama district, known for its distinctive and soulful Fado music scene.
Downtown Lisbon’s Rossio Square is a great starting point for exploring the area’s grand squares, shops and neo-classical buildings.
Must-dos include the Tram 28, which winds through some of the city’s prettiest neighbourhoods.
Or climb aboard the historic Bic and Santa Justa funiculars and elevators to view the city from above.
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After dark, head to Bairro Alto for great restaurants and bars.
GO: Two nights’ B&B at the 4H Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel is from £319pp including BA flights from Heathrow on select dates in October plus 23kg luggage. See .
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