Abta: Europe still top for short breaks

Destinations in Europe are still the top choice among British people taking short city breaks, according to Abta - The Travel Association.

Frances Tuke, a spokeswoman for the group, said that all major European cities are "big on the short break front", with destinations in France and Spain among the most popular.

She also pointed out that cities such as Brussels, which traditionally would not be considered as attractive as the likes of Barcelona and Paris, are doing well this year.

Commenting on the impact of the exchange rate on holidays in Europe, Ms Tuke said: "We've seen a growth in travel to destinations outside the eurozone and we have seen a contraction in the market for western Europe this year, but still those destinations are the most popular due to sheer volume."

According to a recent survey by Visa Europe, 36 per cent of British travellers consider city breaks their favourite type of holiday.

A similar proportion (34 per cent) have sacrificed the traditional two-week holiday in favour of shorter trips spread throughout the year.

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