Leeds beats rivals from Portugal and Germany to take 5th in Europe’s top 10 destinations

LEEDS has been named the fifth best destination in Europe to visit this year by influential travel guide Lonely Planet

The guide’s Best In Europe 2017 praises the city for its urban regeneration and flourishing cultural scene.

It has a thriving nightlife and a growing reputation for food and craft beer, according to the travel experts.

Lonely Planet’s UK destination editor James Smart said: “Once defined by its industrial past, Leeds is now a confident, cultural hub in the north of England.

“With major events this year including the reopening of Leeds Art Gallery and the 50th anniversary of Leeds Carnival, there’s never been a better time to head to Yorkshire and join the party.”

Leeds was ranked number five in the guidebook’s list of the best destinations to visit in 2017.

Zagreb in Croatia took top spot due to its cosmopolitan and edgy atmosphere.

Mr Smart said: “From cultural adventure to spectacular scenery, Europe has something to offer every traveller.

“For Lonely Planet’s Best in Europe 2017 we’ve compiled our hot list of destinations across the continent to visit this summer, all offering something new, exciting or undiscovered that make them worth exploring right now.”