Rome tops summer city break destinations

Rome is the most popular city break destination this summer, research out today shows.

Figures from LateRooms.com show weekends away in major European cities are up by 33 per cent compared with the same time last year, with half of all holidaymakers booking a last minute city break.

After the Italian capital, Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam and Milan are the most popular city break destinations.

"The wet weather is forcing people to reconsider their holiday plans and city breaks offer far more indoor activities such as museums and art galleries," explained Tony Walsh of LateRooms.

"The last thing people want is to book a coastal holiday, but then be stuck inside all day while the rain ruins their plans for beach trips and walks in the countryside."

He added: "A city break means that there is always something to keep the family occupied – whether this is shopping or sightseeing. It's clear the UK public know the country's weather too well, and are waiting to see what happens before booking their break away."