We all know how the hordes descend on Barcelona, Rome and Paris at whatever time of the year. But it's perfectly possible to get that cultural fix with the crowds dialled down at lesser-known cities. Here are ten urban escapes that fit the bill.
Bordeaux, France
A little gastronomy? Oui! Southwestern Bordeaux plates up fine food, big wines and more cultural sights - more than 350 - than you can squeeze into a weekend. It's cheap to arrive, thanks to easyJet and Ryanair flights.
Enjoy grandiose architecture in the city's squares and the shopping boulevard Rue Sainte-Catherine is ideal for a spree. Need a photo to send to those back home? Head for La Grosse Cloche, Bordeaux's beloved 7,750kg city bell.
"Don't miss: Drink in the knowledge at La Cite du Vin, a museum dedicated to Bordeaux's biggest export."
Valletta, Malta
Small but mighty, the Maltese capital has historic sites in spades with St John's Co-Cathedral and the 16th Century Grand Master's Palace among its landmarks. Malta also boasts an average of 300 sunny days a year.
"Don't miss: A blast of modernity at City Gate, crafted by Italian architect Renzo Piano in 2011."
Zurich, Switzerland
Dismiss Switzerland's largest city as a 'business' destination at your peril (and also, don't let the suits have all the fun). This German-speaking metropolis serves up crowd-pleasing attractions such as the Lindt and Fifa museums and stunning architecture such as the university library.
"Don't miss: A little couture (window) shopping on swanky Bahnhofstrasse."
Cork, Ireland
Dubbed Ireland's 'real capital', Cork hits just like Dublin when it comes to old pubs, galleries and exuberant sociability - only without the 24/7 tourist masses. Cork City Gaol offers a stark snapshot of what incarcerated Corkonians once faced.
"Don't miss: A gourmet sausage from O'Flynn's at the city's 18th Century English Market."
Thessaloniki, Greece
Athens wins the tourist dollar but Greece's second city has much to shout about. Thessaloniki is buzzy and beats its ancient sister hands down on gastronomy.
"Don't miss: Climb the 96 steps of the stocky 15th Century White Tower for a 360-degree vista."
San Sebastian, Spain
How to win late-in-the-year sun lottery and dine like royalty? Step up San Sebastian. Michelin-starred restaurants huddle around golden La Concha Bay but a simple San Miguel and pintxos - local tapas - is equally inviting.
"Don't miss: Take the 1912 cog funicular up to Mount Igueldo for bay views."
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Airfares to Slovenia's photogenic capital tumble once summer bows out and Ljubljana's old town abounds with understated elegance. Cutting through it is Ljubljanica river crossed with ornate bridges.
"Don't miss: The city's optimum vista is found if you ride funicular up to hilltop Ljubljana Castle."
Ghent, Belgium
If you can easily access Kent’s ferry terminals Ghent is perfect city break. Belgium’s walkable oldest city less busy than Bruges but similar appeal with cobbled streets gabled houses slim waterways cosy pubs.