Reykjavik

When I go to Europe, I usually try to build in a short side trip. The vacations are long enough to make this worthwhile, and I tend to get bored when I spend too much time in one city. And, side trips add a small element of excitement to the process: you get to put something new on top of an experience that’s already new. The whole thing is just an absolute blast. If you’re already headed to Europe, you might as well add another city to your experience – after all, it’s cheaper than going back to Europe later for another full vacation.

Let’s take a look at five easy and exciting European vacation side trips:

From London: You have a lot of side trip choices from this gateway to Europe. Amsterdam, Paris and Dublin are particularly easy. If you want to do something truly different, though, choose Reykjavik. There are plenty of cheap flights, and they won’t keep you in the air long. And, it’s a chance to visit a part of the world you probably wouldn’t see otherwise. To make your side trip easier, use Heathrow Express (or the Stansted or Gatwick versions) to get to and from the airport quickly and easily. The best part? Reykjavik doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

From Paris: Go south, and visit Monaco. The flight to Nice won’t last long, and you’ll be able to stroll the Mediterranean beaches for a few days before returning to the excitement of London. While you’re ambling between Monaco and Nice, make sure you stop in Eze for this incredible dessert!

From Helsinki: While you’ll have all of Scandinavia at your disposal … but that’s too easy. Instead, visit a corner of the world that definitely wouldn’t be on your radar: Tallinn, Estonia. You can get there by plane or ship, and you’ll find yourself transported to a new, old world. Tallinn’s medieval section is nothing short of charming and a great place to spend a few days.

From Amsterdam: The trains will take you easily through Belgium and Luxembourg all the way to Paris. Places like Bruges and Luxembourg are difficult to reach by plane, making this a truly unique opportunity. Also, the train to Schipol is fast and easy to use. From Amsterdam, you can get to almost any city in Europe with very little hassle.

From Madrid: Put Europe in the rearview mirror and head to Africa! Marrakech is only a few hours away, it’s inexpensive and it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen. This is the sort of side trip that makes a vacation truly unforgettable.

Now, are you ready for some really crazy side trips?

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter for exclusive travel deals!