European Capitals Of Culture
Since 1985 over 40 cities have been designated as European Capitals Of Culture, and during that time the initiative has become one of the most high profile and prestigious cultural events in Europe.
The main criteria for selecting in a City isn't so much for what it is, but more for what it will do during the year that it holds the position of European Capital Of Culture.
Each year two cities are selected, from a process that starts six years before, based specific criteria, with the purpose of highlighting the richness and diversity of European cultures, celebrating the cultural ties that link Europe's citizens together, and harnessing a spirit of community.
Studies of cities that have been designated show that many have been able to regenerate the cities, give new vitality to their cultural life, and raise the international profile.
As such they seem like ideal cities to base a self catering city break around!
As the cities have been chosen up to 2014 you have plenty to chose from:
2014: Umea in Sweden and Riga in Latvia
