Discover affordable European getaways that you can arrange in a weekend.

When you think about travel, you might envision months of planning ahead, endless group chats, and a bank account that needs time to recover afterwards. But to be honest: some of the best adventures can be simply planned over a weekend, and within budget. With the right destination and a bit of teamwork, it can turn into something exciting, affordable, and unforgettable.

Whether you use Potje to save together with friends or just want to escape the daily routine for a bit: these destinations show that travelling doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

1. Antwerp, Belgium 🇧🇪

Perfect for: Art lovers, fashion enthusiasts, and foodies.

From many Dutch cities, you can reach it by train in no time. Antwerp is brimming with creativity — start your morning at the famous Cathedral of Our Lady, stroll through trendy concept stores in the afternoon, and end the day with the best fries in Belgium. The city is compact, so you can discover a lot on foot without expensive transportation costs.

💡 Budget tip: Travel by train and choose accommodation just outside the shopping area for better prices. Many museums have free or discounted entrance on certain days — ideal for keeping costs down.

2. Lille, France 🇫🇷

Perfect for: Culture and café cosiness.

This charming town is small enough to discover in two days, yet full of sights. Start the morning at the Grand Place, browse in vintage shops, and enjoy a fresh croissant in a cosy café. Visit the impressive Palais des Beaux-Arts or explore the markets for affordable local delicacies.

💡 Budget tip: On the first Sunday of the month, various museums are free. For lunch: skip the tourist restaurants and opt for a "formule du midi" in a local bistro — delicious food for a fraction of the price.

3. Bremen, Germany 🇩🇪

Perfect for: History enthusiasts and beer fans.

With fairy-tale streets and a charming riverside promenade, Bremen is perfect for a weekend getaway. In the historic Schnoor district, it feels like you are stepping back in time, and at the Marktplatz you can enjoy great people-watching. The city is compact, so almost everything is reachable on foot.

💡 Budget tip: Go with friends and check group discounts for trains or Flixbus. Grab quick, affordable snacks from local bakeries along the way.

4. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg 🇱🇺

Perfect for: Beautiful walks and a complete change of scenery.

Luxembourg is known for being pricey, but with smart planning, it can be surprisingly affordable. The entire country has free public transport — ideal for exploring castles, nature, and surrounding villages without travel costs. The city itself sits on impressive cliffs and in valleys, with plenty of free viewpoints.

💡 Budget tip: Stay in a guesthouse or hostel outside the centre and bring a picnic to the Pétrusse Valley Park. Stunning views, fresh air, and almost no costs.

5. Bruges, Belgium 🇧🇪

Perfect for: Romance and atmospheric canals.

Bruges is known as the "Venice of the North" for a reason. Although it's popular with tourists, you can also experience the city affordably by seeking out the free highlights: stroll along the Markt, visit the Beguinage, and walk along the canals at sunset. Everything in the centre is walkable.

💡 Budget tip: Skip the boat tour and create your own walking route along the water. For chocolate: choose small local chocolatiers — often better quality and lower prices than tourist shops.

Why weekend trips work so well

Short trips are often cheaper, require fewer days off, and still provide that much-needed holiday feeling. By keeping it simple and affordable, you can enjoy without financial stress.

With Potje, you can save a small amount together with friends every week for spontaneous weekend trips. Set a goal, invite your group, and make sure that "we really need to get away" actually happens.