6 alternative and surprising city trips and hotels
October 17, 2024
Written by Lotte
Palau Fugit, Girona
October 17, 2024
Written by Lotte
Palau Fugit, Girona
1.
Just an hour's drive from Barcelona lies the charming city of Girona, a place rich in history with a beautifully preserved medieval old town. It’s a delightful destination to wander through, especially along the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter, one of the best-preserved in Europe. The atmosphere in the city's historic core is peaceful and inviting, thanks in part to the warm and welcoming locals. One of the highlights is the impressive Girona Cathedral, which towers above the city. Climb the steps and enjoy spectacular views from the city walls, offering a stunning panorama over the rooftops and surrounding landscape. Girona is not only renowned for its history but has also gained popularity as a major filming location for the famous TV series Game of Thrones. This has made it even more attractive to lovers of both history and popular culture. Beyond its cultural and historical appeal, Girona is also known for its delicious food and the many cozy terraces where you can savor local dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a simple tapa or a lavish dinner, the city offers plenty of options. A visit to Girona is also perfect to combine with a trip to the Costa Brava. This region is famous for its breathtaking coastline and crystal-clear sea, allowing you to balance Girona's cultural adventure with a relaxing day at the beach.
Palau Fugit, Girona
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For a stay in Girona, we highly recommend the luxury boutique hotel Palau Fugit, which opened in 2023. It boasts an incredible interior along with a rooftop terrace, spa, pool, and a courtyard garden. A true oasis in the heart of the city.
2.
Have you already visited Lisbon and are looking for something different? Discover Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal. It's the perfect place to taste the finest port wines and explore its local charm. Porto lies along the banks of the Douro River, with plenty of cozy streets to wander through. The city is rapidly developing, and with the arrival of more luxury hotels, it's easy to combine your city trip with a luxurious stay, ensuring that nothing is lacking. One of the highlights of Porto is visiting the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the Douro. Here, you’ll learn all about the centuries-old tradition of port wine and have the chance to taste different varieties. It's a fun and informal way to discover more about this famous wine, so closely tied to the city's history. For book lovers, Livraria Lello is a must-see. Known for its stunning wooden interior and impressive staircase, you may have already spotted it on Instagram, as it's a highly photographed spot. Another recommendation is the cable car in Vila Nova de Gaia. This short ride offers breathtaking views over the city, the river, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, giving you a unique perspective of Porto. When you need a break, Café Majestic is a charming spot to enjoy a coffee or a pastel de nata. This historic café, with its beautiful art-deco style, is a must-see. Porto can also be perfectly combined with a trip to the Douro Valley, where you can stay among the vineyards, allowing you to balance your city visit with some tranquility in Portugal's stunning countryside.
The Lince Santa Clara, Porto
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Do you want to discover Porto while enjoying and relaxing at one of the city's best luxury hotels? Book a stay at The Lince Santa Clara.
3.
With its impressive castle towering high above the city, Edinburgh feels like a journey back in time to medieval Scotland’s mystique. Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock, not only offers stunning views over the city but also tells stories of ancient battles and royal history. The medieval streets of the old town, combined with the elegant Georgian architecture of the new town, give Edinburgh a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else. Every corner of the city breathes history. Wander along the Royal Mile, which stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyrood, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. For a breathtaking panoramic view of Edinburgh, climb Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcanic hill on the city’s edge. It feels like a peaceful escape, offering sweeping views of the Scottish landscapes. If you’re in the mood for something unique and a bit eerie, take a tour through the Edinburgh Vaults, where you’ll uncover the city’s dark and mysterious side. It’s a place filled with ghost stories and legends, giving you a glimpse into life long ago. A visit to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without tasting authentic Scottish whisky. Edinburgh boasts many cozy bars and distilleries where you can sample different whiskies and learn about the production and tradition of this world-famous drink. If you visit in August, don’t miss the renowned Edinburgh Festival, a cultural event that attracts thousands of visitors with theatre, music, and art from around the world. Edinburgh is a city where history, culture, and mystique come together, allowing every visitor to feel as if they’ve stepped back in time.
Gleneagles Townhouse, Edinburgh
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The trendy Gleneagles Townhouse is the perfect base for exploring this historic and charming city. With its stylish interior, restaurant, and cozy lobby, you’ll be right in the heart of the city in no time.
4.
Located on the Basque coast in northern Spain, San Sebastián combines stunning beaches with one of the best culinary scenes in Europe. The city is famous for its pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, which can be savored throughout the old town. Additionally, San Sebastián boasts an impressive number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including renowned names like Arzak, Akelarre, and Mugaritz, making it a top destination for food lovers. Beyond its cuisine, San Sebastián offers plenty for beach and nature enthusiasts. A visit to La Concha Beach or a hike up Monte Igueldo for breathtaking views of the bay is definitely worthwhile. This combination of gastronomy and natural beauty makes San Sebastián an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy delicious food and a relaxing stay by the coast.
Akelarre, San Sebastian
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Are you ready for a culinary adventure while enjoying sun, sea, and sand? Then the luxury hotel Akelarre is the perfect destination. Its fine dining restaurant, awarded three Michelin stars, is worth the trip on its own. In addition, you can unwind in the luxurious spa and take in the breathtaking views of the sea.
5.
Lucerne, located on the shores of the stunning Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Alps, is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of tranquility, nature, and culture. The city offers everything for a relaxing getaway, whether you want to enjoy nature, discover the historic charm of the town, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One of Lucerne's most iconic landmarks is the Chapel Bridge, a historic wooden bridge adorned with flowers, which, along with the nearby Water Tower, serves as a symbol of the city. A stroll across this bridge, especially at sunset, provides gorgeous views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The atmospheric Old Town (Altstadt), with its winding streets, pastel-colored buildings, and charming squares, is the perfect place for a leisurely wander. Take your time to stop at a café for a coffee or enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants. For those who love being on the water, a boat trip on Lake Lucerne is highly recommended. From the water, you'll have breathtaking views of both the city and the mountains. The lake itself is a haven of tranquility, offering ample opportunity to relax and soak in the surrounding natural beauty. Lucerne also serves as a gateway to the nearby Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, both easily accessible by cable car or cogwheel train. Once at the summit, you'll be greeted with spectacular panoramic views over the city and lake, perfect for a picnic or a meal at one of the mountain lodges. With its picturesque location and relaxed atmosphere, Lucerne is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. It’s a place where nature and culture come together, allowing you to fully enjoy everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.
Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern
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At Mandarin Oriental Palace, located directly on the lake, you'll find an oasis of peace and relaxation, while still being just moments away from the beautiful city. The hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms, fully equipped with all modern conveniences, ensuring a luxurious and carefree stay.
6.
Bordeaux is renowned worldwide for its famous wine region, but the city has much more to offer. The historic city center, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is definitely worth exploring. With its beautiful squares, vibrant neighborhoods, and a wide array of gastronomy, Bordeaux makes for the perfect city trip. You can explore the city in a unique way via the many bike paths along the Garonne, or indulge in local culinary specialties like canard confit and the famous canelés. Be sure to visit one of the cozy wine bars as well. If you want to learn more about this world-famous wine region, La Cité du Vin, an interactive wine museum, is a must. It offers a fascinating introduction to the world of wine. And what would a visit to Bordeaux be without a trip to the nearby vineyards? Saint-Émilion and Médoc are fantastic places to taste the best wines and learn more about the region’s centuries-old wine tradition. If you're a fan of antiques and vintage, the Les Chartrons district is a must-see. This charming neighborhood, reminiscent of a blend between Paris’s Marais and London’s Notting Hill, is filled with antique shops, vintage boutiques, and cozy cafés. Stroll through the streets around Eglise Saint-Louis des Chartrons and visit Rue Notre-Dame, where you’ll find trendy design shops, charming coffee bars, and wine bars. Don’t miss Village Notre-Dame, a historic building full of antique stores. On the lively Place du Marché des Chartrons, you can relax on a terrace and enjoy fresh oysters from nearby Bassin d’Arcachon. In addition to culture and gastronomy, Bordeaux also offers stunning nature in its surroundings. Just an hour’s drive away, you’ll find the impressive Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. From the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and the vast forests of Les Landes—a perfect day trip to complete your city escape.
Maison Fernand, Bordeaux
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For a charming and intimate stay, Maison Fernand B&B is the perfect choice. This boutique B&B offers spacious, stylish rooms and a delicious freshly prepared breakfast. The location is ideal: right in the heart of Bordeaux, yet quietly situated, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.
