Alternative city breaks - Ljubljana, Slovenia

There are some timeless classics when it comes to European city breaks, but this means that these cities are besieged by crowds. Luckily there are other, less-visited options that are surprisingly similar...

Ljubljana, Slovenia
Instead of: Paris
Who for? Romantics and people-watchers.
Why? There are few places in Eastern Europe that are as utterly charming as the Slovenian capital, and the Ljubljanica River provides a centrepiece, just as the Seine does in Paris. At night, the river is given the full mood lighting treatment - perfect for walking along hand-in-hand.
Highlights: It's not just the river that gives a Parisien feel. Ljubljana is also huge on its street cafes. Turn up on a summer evening, and terraces take up every bit of pavement possible. It makes for a people-watcher's paradise.

Search: Hidden gems of Europe | Eastern European cities
Be there: Flights to Ljubljana | Hotels in Ljubljana | Slovenia travel guide
Related articles: Travelling in Europe | Top 10 most romantic cities