Europe is spolt for choice for wonderful city breaks. With the growth of budget airlines across the continent there is no excuse not to get out there and explore some of the most iconic and famous cities in the world. And when you do, the money you’ve saved on your flight can be put towards staying at some of the World’s most famous and luxurious hotels. Go on, treat yourself.
Here is a list of ten of PureTravels favourite escapes:
Paris, France
Overview: Often called the “City of Light,” Paris is a perennial favorite for city breaks. Its blend of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and culinary delights make it a top choice for travelers. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are just the tip of the iceberg. Paris is also a city for strolling along the Seine, enjoying picnics in the Luxembourg Gardens, and indulging in world-class shopping along the Champs-Élysées. The city’s vibrant café culture and exquisite patisseries add to its irresistible allure.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 30 million
Most Famous Hotel: Ritz Paris – Renowned for its luxury and historical significance, the Ritz Paris has hosted many celebrities and dignitaries since its opening in 1898. Located in Place Vendôme, it offers opulent rooms, a luxurious spa, and exquisite dining options.
Barcelona, Spain
Overview: Barcelona offers a perfect mix of beach, culture, and nightlife. Renowned for its unique architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, Barcelona is a feast for the eyes. The bustling La Rambla street is ideal for people-watching and sampling local delicacies at the famous La Boqueria market. For art enthusiasts, the Picasso Museum is a must-visit. With its lively atmosphere, Mediterranean climate, and beautiful beaches, Barcelona caters to a wide range of interests.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 12 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel Arts Barcelona – This luxury hotel, located near the beach and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is famous for its modern design and exceptional service. It features a top-floor spa, an outdoor pool, and several gourmet restaurants.
Rome, Italy
Overview: Rome is a city where ancient history and vibrant modernity coexist. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon offer glimpses into the city’s imperial past, while Vatican City, with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, showcases its religious significance. Rome’s piazzas, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, are perfect for leisurely exploration. The city’s culinary scene, featuring pasta, pizza, and gelato, is legendary. A stroll through Rome’s charming neighborhoods, like Trastevere, reveals hidden gems around every corner.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 10 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel Hassler Roma – Situated at the top of the Spanish Steps, Hotel Hassler Roma offers panoramic views of Rome. Known for its elegance and luxury, it features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, a rooftop restaurant, and a world-class spa.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Overview: Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, historic buildings, and world-class museums make it a top destination for a city break. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House are cultural highlights that draw millions of visitors each year. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for cycling, and the extensive network of bike paths ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. Amsterdam’s vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and beautiful parks, such as Vondelpark, offer plenty of activities for all types of travelers.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 9 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel De L’Europe – Overlooking the Amstel River, Hotel De L’Europe is a symbol of refined luxury in Amsterdam. It boasts elegant rooms, a spa, Michelin-starred dining, and a prime location near many of the city’s major attractions.
Prague, Czech Republic
Overview: Prague, often dubbed “The City of a Hundred Spires,” enchants visitors with its medieval charm and stunning architecture. The Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square, with its Astronomical Clock, are iconic landmarks that should not be missed. The city’s well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its cobblestone streets and Gothic buildings create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Prague’s lively cultural scene includes numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues, making it a haven for arts enthusiasts.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 8 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel Augustine – Located in a former monastery near Prague Castle, Hotel Augustine combines historical charm with modern luxury. The hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms, a serene courtyard, and a luxurious spa.
Vienna, Austria
Overview: Vienna, the capital of Austria, is synonymous with classical music, grand architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The city’s imperial past is evident in landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, and the opulent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Vienna’s museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Belvedere, house impressive art collections. The city’s coffeehouse culture, with its elegant cafes serving delectable pastries and coffee, provides a quintessential Viennese experience. Music lovers can enjoy performances at the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 7 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel Sacher Wien – Famous for its traditional elegance and the original Sachertorte, Hotel Sacher Wien offers luxurious accommodations, a renowned restaurant, and a prime location near the Vienna State Opera.
Berlin, Germany
Overview: Berlin is a dynamic city known for its history, eclectic culture, and vibrant nightlife. The remnants of the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Holocaust Memorial are poignant reminders of the city’s tumultuous past. Berlin’s Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts five world-renowned museums. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, offer a mix of hip cafes, trendy boutiques, and vibrant street art. Berlin’s nightlife, featuring countless bars, clubs, and live music venues, is legendary.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 13 million
Most Famous Hotel: Hotel Adlon Kempinski – Located next to the Brandenburg Gate, Hotel Adlon Kempinski is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. It offers opulent rooms, world-class dining, and a state-of-the-art spa.
Lisbon, Portugal
Overview: Lisbon, with its colorful streets, historic trams, and stunning views, is an increasingly popular city break destination. The city’s hills provide breathtaking panoramas, especially from viewpoints such as Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, like Alfama and Bairro Alto, are full of character and charm. The Belem district, with its iconic tower and Jerónimos Monastery, showcases the city’s maritime heritage. Lisbon’s culinary scene, known for its fresh seafood and traditional pastries like pastéis de nata, is a highlight for food lovers.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 5 million
Most Famous Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon – Overlooking Eduardo VII Park, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon offers luxurious accommodations, a rooftop fitness center, and exceptional dining options.
Budapest, Hungary
Overview: Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” captivates visitors with its beautiful architecture and thermal baths. The city is divided by the Danube River, with Buda’s historic Castle Hill on one side and Pest’s lively urban center on the other. The Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, and St. Stephen’s Basilica are must-see landmarks. Budapest’s thermal baths, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, offer a relaxing experience. The city’s ruin bars, set in abandoned buildings and courtyards, provide a unique nightlife experience.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 4.5 million
Most Famous Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – Located by the Danube River, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace is an architectural masterpiece offering luxurious rooms, a stunning spa, and a prime location near the Chain Bridge.
Istanbul, Turkey
Overview: Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia, is a city where East meets West. The city’s rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture, such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The bustling Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar offer a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and scents. A cruise along the Bosphorus provides stunning views of the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks. Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Beyoğlu and Kadıköy, are filled with cafes, shops, and lively street life, showcasing the city’s dynamic culture.
Annual Visitors: Approximately 15 million
Most Famous Hotel: Çırağan Palace Kempinski – Situated on the shores of the Bosphorus, Çırağan Palace Kempinski is a former Ottoman palace offering unparalleled luxury, exquisite dining, and stunning views of the water.
These ten European cities offer diverse and rich experiences, attracting millions of tourists each year with their unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Each city’s most famous hotel adds to the charm and luxury of the visit, providing top-tier accommodations and exceptional services.
