With canals, cobbles and culture, Utrecht is an ideal European city for a short getaway. Visit the gothic Dom Church, take in the historic surroundings on a cruise through the canals and check out the Saturday flower market along the Oudegracht canal. The Centraal Museum is a must-see for its permanent art collection of children's character Miffy (one for the kids and adults!)
How to get there: Fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and get a direct train to Utrecht, which takes around 30 minutes.