Sometimes your booked holiday can seem literally miles away, and if you're counting down the days with a red pen then maybe it is time to get away without using up your holiday allowance. To many people, going away to a city just for the weekend can seem like a waste of time and money- especially if your average holiday is spent relaxing on a beach for as long as possible. But if you just want to get away and be inspired by new sights, sounds and tastes, there are many affordable and convenient city breaks that can take you away from familiarity for some quality time with a partner or friends and family.

When your time is precious and you only have a weekend to spare, flying is going to be your cheapest and quickest option. Preparation is the key to avoid costly airport transfers and flights at antisocial times. It can be worth keeping an eye out for hotel & flight combination deals, or even signing on to a budget airline's mailing list for time-limited offers. Checking the location of your chosen airport and its relation to the city you want to visit can be key, as many major cities have two airports and usually one is much further out of town. Compare the prices of the flights to each airport including the cost of a transfer to your hotel. Many airlines now offer their own transfer service which can be included in the price of a ticket. this can reduce the complications sometimes caused when navigating public transport systems and haggling with taxi drivers in an unfamiliar currency. If this isn't possible, get an idea of how much a taxi should cost.

If the idea of flying really brings you out in a cold sweat, you may want to consider the possibility of driving or taking the train. Having your own car can make the journey less complex and more comfortable, plus it means you can take home more duty-free goodies and presents without having to worry about airline luggage restrictions. The drive from Dunkirk to Amsterdam takes roughly three and a half hours after getting off the ferry and Antwerp and Lille both take less than three hours to get to. The Eurostar is usually considerably more expensive than the ferry but could save you money if you live close enough to the capital.

Making the most of your journey is important to make sure that it doesn't feel like such a slog. Bring your favourite glossy magazine or book, some tasty treats or even a bottle of wine. Why not- you're on holiday! Once you have arrived, the city is yours for the taking. You could coincide your trip with a concert, an exhibition or even a beer festival for a unique treat far away from home. So grab an accomplice, start your adventure and who knows where you may end up.