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Travelling across Europe has always held immense appeal for UK travellers, offering diverse cultures, stunning architecture, and rich historical tapestries just a short flight or train journey away. With 2025 on the horizon, it is an ideal time to plan new adventures and rediscover favourite classics or explore places you have never been. This comprehensive guide highlights ten European cities that promise unforgettable experiences, from charming canals and grand boulevards to hidden gems in lesser-known corners of the continent. Each entry includes essential information about what makes the city special, must-see sites and experiences, as well as recommended hotels across different budgets. Whether you are seeking a budget-friendly adventure, a boutique-style retreat, or a luxurious escape, these European gems will cater to your every whim. Here are our Top 10 Must-Visit European Cities for UK Travellers in 2025.
1. Florence, Italy
Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is an epicentre of Renaissance art and architecture. Steeped in history, this city boasts magnificent galleries, churches, and squares that recall the golden age of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and countless other masters. But Florence is not just about antiquity; contemporary dining scenes, stylish boutiques, and vibrant street markets make it a dynamic destination for cultural immersion. Strolling across the Ponte Vecchio or climbing to the top of the Duomo’s dome are experiences that will live in your memory long after you have left.
Why Visit in 2025
- Upcoming cultural initiatives: Florence has an ongoing commitment to preserving its Renaissance heritage through restorations and new exhibitions. By 2025, you can expect refined museum experiences and special collaborative art projects that add fresh layers to its historical attractions.
- Tuscan cuisine evolution: Restaurants in Florence are increasingly blending tradition with modern techniques, promising innovative takes on classic dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina and ribollita soup.
- Year-round charm: While peak months are busier, Florence retains its magic in all seasons, and a winter visit might reward you with fewer crowds around the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s ‘David’).
Must-See Experiences
- Uffizi Gallery: Housing some of the world’s finest Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Botticelli and Raphael.
- Duomo Complex: Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views over Florence’s terracotta roofs; also visit Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery.
- Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge lined with jewellers and shops, an icon of the city’s commerce and romance.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: For sweeping city views, especially enchanting at sunset.
- Traditional Markets: San Lorenzo Market for leather goods and Mercato Centrale for fresh produce and Tuscan treats.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Florence)
- Hotel Bodoni
- Key details: Simple rooms near Santa Croce; offers great value and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Breakfast is basic yet filling, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
- Hotel Dali
- Key details: Family-run property within walking distance of the Duomo. Rooms are modest but comfortable, and the owners provide personalised local tips.
- Hotel Canada
- Key details: Close to the train station, offering clean, no-frills rooms. Perfect for those spending most of their time exploring the city’s cultural attractions.
Boutique Hotels (Florence)
- Hotel Spadai
- Key details: Located steps from the Duomo, featuring sophisticated décor and bespoke service. Popular for its complimentary mini-bar and nightly wine hour.
- AdAstra
- Key details: A unique bed and breakfast located within Europe’s largest private garden, in the Oltrarno neighbourhood. Each room boasts stylish interiors with a homely vibe.
- Palazzo Guadagni
- Key details: Housed in a 16th-century building, offering antique furnishings and a classic Florentine atmosphere. The rooftop loggia is a quiet oasis overlooking the city.
Luxury Hotels (Florence)
- Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
- Key details: A palatial 15th-century building turned lavish resort, featuring frescoed ceilings, immaculate gardens, and a world-class spa.
- Belmond Villa San Michele
- Key details: Formerly a 15th-century monastery, this is now a top-tier hotel with panoramic city views, top-notch dining, and historically inspired architecture.
- The St. Regis Florence
- Key details: Overlooking the Arno River, known for its refined interior design and personalised butler service, combining Renaissance elegance with modern comfort.
2. Barcelona, Spain
A city alive with colour, creativity, and contagious energy, Barcelona seduces visitors with its mix of modernist architecture, Mediterranean beaches, and Catalan heritage. From Gaudí’s eccentric designs to sun-kissed cafe terraces, every corner of Barcelona hums with a distinct character. The city’s gastronomic scene, dynamic nightlife, and cultural festivities further augment its status as a top European destination for all tastes.
Why Visit in 2025
- Architectural wonders: Barcelona continues to make strides in preserving and showcasing the works of Gaudí. By 2025, ongoing restorations of Sagrada Família and Casa Batlló may reveal new details.
- Evolving cuisine: Barcelona’s food scene extends well beyond tapas, with creative chefs blending Catalan tradition and avant-garde techniques.
- Festival culture: Summer music festivals and local celebrations like La Mercè ensure that the city pulses with events year-round.
Must-See Experiences
- La Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, an awe-inspiring basilica with intricate façades and a kaleidoscopic interior.
- Park Güell: Another Gaudí gem, replete with vibrant mosaics, whimsical benches, and panoramic city views.
- Las Ramblas: Barcelona’s famous pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
- Gothic Quarter: A labyrinth of medieval streets, hidden squares, and centuries-old architecture.
- Barceloneta Beach: For a taste of Barcelona’s seaside charm, close to lively beach bars and seafood restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Barcelona)
- Hostal Balkonis
- Key details: A small, friendly hostel near the city centre with bright rooms and a garden terrace. Great for solo or budget-conscious travellers.
- Hotel Lloret Ramblas
- Key details: Located right on Las Ramblas, offering simple yet comfortable rooms, perfect for short city breaks.
- Hotel Peninsular
- Key details: A historic building in the Raval district, close to major tourist spots. Basic but functional rooms at fair prices.
Boutique Hotels (Barcelona)
- Casa Camper
- Key details: Situated in the heart of the city, featuring minimalist design, complimentary snacks, and a relaxed ambience.
- The Corner Hotel
- Key details: Stylish property in the Eixample neighbourhood, featuring modern decor, a rooftop pool, and a trendy bar scene.
- Hotel Brummell
- Key details: A design-centric hotel near Montjuïc offering a cosmopolitan vibe, yoga sessions, and a laid-back cafe.
Luxury Hotels (Barcelona)
- Hotel Arts Barcelona
- Key details: A waterfront icon near the Olympic Port, known for its contemporary art displays, upscale dining, and sea views.
- Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
- Key details: It occupies a prime spot on Passeig de Gràcia, blending modern style with Catalan influences, plus a rooftop terrace and Michelin-starred restaurant.
- W Barcelona
- Key details: Also called the ‘Sail Hotel,’ it boasts panoramic sea views, a beachfront location, and a rooftop bar scene.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague merges its enchanting medieval architecture with a lively modern culture. Famed for its labyrinth of cobbled lanes, the majestic Charles Bridge, and Gothic spires dominating the skyline, Prague is a romantic city that exudes historical charm at every turn. Beyond the postcard-perfect facade lies a thriving arts scene, a penchant for classical music, and of course, globally renowned beer.
Why Visit in 2025
- Heritage preservation: Ongoing restoration projects ensure Prague’s Old Town retains its aesthetic allure, while new creative spaces flourish in the city’s outskirts.
- Musical traditions: By 2025, Prague’s classical music scene may host special festivals or anniversaries, offering a grand spectacle for enthusiasts.
- Vibrant student culture: With multiple universities, Prague’s youthful energy fosters diverse nightlife and cultural events.
Must-See Experiences
- Prague Castle: A massive complex that houses the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the charming Golden Lane.
- Charles Bridge: Early mornings or late evenings are best for avoiding crowds on this iconic 14th-century bridge.
- Old Town Square: Home to the Astronomical Clock and surrounding historical buildings, bustling with markets and street performers.
- Lennon Wall: A symbol of peace and freedom, continuously adorned with new graffiti and messages.
- Vyšehrad: A fortress overlooking the Vltava River, offering green spaces and a quieter historical vantage point.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Prague)
- Czech Inn
- Key details: A popular hostel with both dorms and private rooms, located in a stylishly converted 19th-century building.
- Hostel One Home
- Key details: Known for its social atmosphere, group dinners, and a prime location near the city centre.
- Hotel Ankora
- Key details: Located near Wenceslas Square, offering basic but comfortable rooms with easy access to public transport.
Boutique Hotels (Prague)
- Metropolitan Old Town Hotel
- Key details: A small but elegant property close to the Old Town Square, known for personalised service.
- Hotel Klarov
- Key details: Overlooking Prague Castle, housed in a historic building that blends classical design with modern touches.
- BoHo Prague Hotel
- Key details: A refined boutique option near the city centre, featuring sleek decor and an atmospheric library lounge.
Luxury Hotels (Prague)
- Four Seasons Hotel Prague
- Key details: Overlooking the Vltava River, provides spacious suites, a top-class spa, and dining options with views of the castle.
- Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- Key details: Occupies a 13th-century monastery complex, offering a tranquil ambience and meticulously designed interiors.
- Mandarin Oriental, Prague
- Key details: Set in a former Dominican monastery, known for its signature spa and blend of historic elegance with contemporary comfort.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
A city that evokes nostalgic charm, Lisbon stands out for its steep hills, vibrant neighbourhoods, and pastel-hued buildings. Its cobblestone streets, old-world trams, and sweeping viewpoints (miradouros) overlooking the Tagus River form a romantic setting. Meanwhile, Lisbon’s culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and world-renowned pastries like pastéis de nata, ensures travellers leave with a satisfied palate.
Why Visit in 2025
- Cultural revival: The city continues to invest in new galleries, museums, and creative hubs, promising fresh experiences by 2025.
- Neighbourhood renaissance: Districts like Mouraria and Intendente showcase Lisbon’s multicultural identity, with live music, street art, and bohemian cafes.
- Accessible city: Lisbon’s ongoing expansion of tram and metro lines means exploring its hidden corners will be easier than ever.
Must-See Experiences
- Alfama District: Wander through narrow alleys, listen to fado music in traditional taverns, and absorb the Moorish influences in this historic quarter.
- Belém: Home to the iconic Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
- Tram 28: Ride this classic tram, offering a scenic route that winds through hills and picturesque neighbourhoods.
- Praça do Comércio: A grand square facing the Tagus, surrounded by arcaded buildings, a perfect place to observe Lisbon’s lively waterfront.
- LX Factory: A creative hub of art, design, and trendy eateries housed in repurposed industrial buildings.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Lisbon)
- EasyHotel Lisbon
- Key details: Centrally located, known for its minimalist style and good value. Ideal for travellers spending most of their time exploring.
- Lisbon Destination Hostel
- Key details: Situated in Rossio Train Station, famed for its social atmosphere and quirky decor.
- Casa de Hospedes Dias
- Key details: A small guesthouse offering basic accommodation near Alfama, perfect for soaking up local life.
Boutique Hotels (Lisbon)
- The Independente Suites & Terrace
- Key details: Stylish dorms and suites in a converted palace near Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, featuring a popular rooftop bar.
- Casa Balthazar
- Key details: A family-run boutique inn with individually decorated rooms and panoramic terrace views, close to Chiado.
- LX Boutique Hotel
- Key details: Nestled near the riverfront in Cais do Sodré, combining modern design elements with Portuguese flair.
Luxury Hotels (Lisbon)
- Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
- Key details: A landmark hotel offering panoramic city views, opulent interiors, and exemplary service.
- Pestana Palace Lisboa
- Key details: Occupies a 19th-century palace surrounded by lush gardens, featuring classical decor and a tranquil ambience.
- Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel
- Key details: Seamlessly blends history and modernity, located near the riverside with top-tier amenities and refined decor.
5. Vienna, Austria
A city of imperial palaces, grand boulevards, and timeless music, Vienna enchants visitors with its elegant coffee houses, baroque architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. Renowned for its classical concerts and waltz tradition, the Austrian capital seamlessly merges historical richness with modern vibrancy, offering everything from highbrow opera to hip design districts.
Why Visit in 2025
- Anniversary celebrations: Vienna is known for commemorating classical composers’ birthdays and historical milestones, so 2025 might feature special events and festivals.
- Culinary evolution: Beyond schnitzel and sachertorte, Vienna’s restaurant scene experiments with farm-to-table and fusion cuisine.
- Musical heritage: Regular performances at the Vienna State Opera, Musikverein, and Konzerthaus remain magnets for classical music aficionados.
Must-See Experiences
- Schönbrunn Palace: Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, offering extensive gardens, a zoo, and opulent baroque interiors.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city, climb its tower for panoramic views.
- Hofburg Palace: A sprawling complex housing museums and the Spanish Riding School with its famed Lipizzan horses.
- Belvedere Palace: Home to Klimt’s iconic ‘The Kiss’ painting, set amidst landscaped gardens.
- Viennese Coffee Houses: Indulge in tradition at Café Central or Café Sacher, enjoying classic pastries like apfelstrudel.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Vienna)
- Meininger Hotel Downtown Franz
- Key details: Modern and functional rooms near the city centre, offering shared kitchen facilities.
- Wombat’s City Hostel Naschmarkt
- Key details: Vibrant hostel near Vienna’s famous food market, offering both dormitory and private rooms.
- Pension Dr. Geissler
- Key details: A traditional guesthouse with cosy rooms at reasonable prices, located steps from Schwedenplatz.
Boutique Hotels (Vienna)
- Hotel Altstadt Vienna
- Key details: Nestled in the Spittelberg district, featuring individually designed rooms and a curated art collection.
- Hollmann Beletage Design & Boutique Hotel
- Key details: A hidden gem in the old town, blending modern design with personal touches like an honesty bar.
- The Guesthouse Vienna
- Key details: Overlooking the Albertina and State Opera, this hotel offers contemporary rooms and an in-house bakery.
Luxury Hotels (Vienna)
- Hotel Sacher Wien
- Key details: Iconic home of the Original Sacher-Torte, boasting opulent old-world charm and a prime location opposite the State Opera.
- Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna
- Key details: Located in a historic building on the Ringstrasse, featuring top-notch dining and a luxurious spa.
- Park Hyatt Vienna
- Key details: Occupies a 100-year-old bank building in the Goldenes Quartier, blending historical elegance with modern amenities.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
A city famed for its design, sustainability, and high standard of living, Copenhagen enchants visitors with its canals, bicycle culture, and gastronomic innovations. From the charm of Nyhavn’s colourful houses to the futuristic architecture of Ørestad, Copenhagen offers a unique blend of the traditional and the progressive.
Why Visit in 2025
- Green initiatives: Copenhagen continues to push forward with sustainable urban development, making it a haven for eco-conscious travellers by 2025.
- Culinary scene: The city’s thriving New Nordic cuisine, led by restaurants like Noma, ensures gastronomic adventures are ever-evolving.
- Cosy culture: Embrace hygge, a Danish concept of comfort and wellbeing, found in everything from candlelit cafes to relaxed public spaces.
Must-See Experiences
- Tivoli Gardens: A historic amusement park in the city centre, offering rides, concerts, and gorgeous seasonal decorations.
- Nyhavn: The picturesque canal is lined with vibrant 17th-century townhouses, a perfect spot for al fresco dining.
- Christiansborg Palace: Home to Denmark’s Parliament and offering tours of the royal reception rooms.
- Freetown Christiania: A self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood known for its communal living and quirky atmosphere.
- Design Museum Denmark: Celebrates the nation’s famed design heritage, from furniture to fashion.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Copenhagen)
- Steel House Copenhagen
- Key details: A designer hostel near Vesterbro, featuring industrial-chic rooms and shared facilities.
- Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade
- Key details: Modern, minimalist rooms at affordable rates, located close to Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv.
- Hotel Jørgensen
- Key details: An older-style budget hotel near Nørreport Station, convenient for public transport and city explorations.
Boutique Hotels (Copenhagen)
- Hotel SP34
- Key details: A stylish hotel in the Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian minimalism with quirky touches.
- Ibsens Hotel
- Key details: A cosy boutique hotel celebrating local art, located near the charming Nansensgade area.
- Hotel Alexandra
- Key details: Showcases Danish retro design and vintage furniture, giving a nostalgic mid-century feel.
Luxury Hotels (Copenhagen)
- d’Angleterre
- Key details: A grand hotel on Kongens Nytorv, featuring Michelin-starred dining, a luxe spa, and historic elegance.
- Nobis Hotel Copenhagen
- Key details: Occupies a 1903 landmark building with a contemporary interior, close to the Glyptotek and Tivoli Gardens.
- Villa Copenhagen
- Key details: Formerly the Central Post and Telegraph Head Office, now a high-end hotel combining sustainability with Scandinavian chic.
7. Kraków, Poland
Kraków’s cobblestone squares and medieval spires reflect a city that balances historic legacy with youthful energy. The UNESCO-listed Old Town, poignant Jewish Quarter, and vibrant nightlife make this Polish gem an all-encompassing destination for travellers seeking culture, history, and modern pleasures.
Why Visit in 2025
- Heritage focus: Restoration projects continue around the city’s architectural gems, ensuring they remain accessible and engaging.
- Cultural scene: Kraków’s position as a hub for the arts and literature regularly spawns festivals and creative gatherings.
- Budget-friendly: Compared to many European capitals, Kraków remains an affordable destination without compromising on quality experiences.
Must-See Experiences
- Wawel Castle: A Renaissance palace complex overlooking the Vistula River, central to Poland’s royal history.
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): Europe’s largest medieval town square, home to Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica.
- Kazimierz District: Explore the former Jewish Quarter’s synagogues, hip cafes, and weekend markets.
- Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory: A museum detailing wartime Kraków and the story behind Schindler’s lists.
- Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau: A sobering yet essential historical visit that offers profound insights into the Holocaust.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Kraków)
- Dizzy Daisy Hostel
- Key details: Located near the city centre, offering budget dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.
- Amber Guest Rooms
- Key details: Simple accommodation in the Old Town, ensuring easy access to main attractions.
- Atlantis Hostel
- Key details: Popular for its friendly staff and cleanliness, near Kazimierz and Wawel Castle.
Boutique Hotels (Kraków)
- Metropolitan Boutique Hotel
- Key details: Situated close to Kazimierz, offering modern rooms with a dash of local flair.
- Hotel Copernicus
- Key details: Housed in a 14th-century building near Wawel Castle, with historical furnishings and an intimate atmosphere.
- Cracowdays
- Key details: A homely boutique guesthouse in a quiet neighbourhood, featuring stylish interiors and personal service.
Luxury Hotels (Kraków)
- Bonerowski Palace
- Key details: Overlooking the Main Market Square, combining grand historical interiors with premium amenities.
- Grand Hotel Kraków
- Key details: A regal establishment in the Old Town, known for classical decor and refined dining.
- Sheraton Grand Krakow
- Key details: Near the Vistula River, offering a roof terrace with views of Wawel Castle and modern, spacious rooms.
8. Bruges, Belgium
A fairy-tale setting of canals, cobbled streets, and medieval charm, Bruges (Brugge) is a top pick for those craving a romantic getaway or an immersion in rich European history. Its well-preserved historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts enchanting architecture and a serene canal network that has earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North.’
Why Visit in 2025
- Preservation efforts: Bruges is committed to maintaining its historical integrity, so 2025 might see enhancements in interactive museum experiences.
- Culinary expansions: Renowned for waffles, chocolate, and Belgian beer, the city continues to showcase innovative takes on gastronomic heritage.
- Cultural events: From winter light festivals to summer art fairs, Bruges consistently offers seasonal festivities that amplify its charm.
Must-See Experiences
- Markt and Belfry: The main square is dominated by a medieval belfry, climb its 366 steps for panoramic city views.
- Canal Boat Tours: A boat trip on the canals reveals hidden gardens, quaint bridges, and backstreet vistas.
- Church of Our Lady: Houses Michelangelo’s ‘Madonna and Child’, one of the few Michelangelo sculptures outside Italy.
- Groeningemuseum: Showcases a collection of Flemish Primitive art, featuring works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
- Windmills on the City Edge: Explore the eastern ramparts where historic windmills stand as silent witnesses to Bruges’ milling past.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Bruges)
- St Christopher’s Inn at The Bauhaus
- Key details: A lively backpacker-style hostel with a central location, offering tours and a social atmosphere.
- Ibis Budget Brugge Centrum Station
- Key details: Modern and basic, situated conveniently near the train station. Great for quick trips.
- Hotel Bla Bla
- Key details: Simple, clean rooms in the city centre, ideal for travellers who want to maximise time exploring.
Boutique Hotels (Bruges)
- Adornes Hotel
- Key details: Overlooking a canal, offering quaint rooms, free bike rentals, and a genuinely personal touch.
- Hotel Ter Duinen
- Key details: A family-run hotel by the canal, famed for warm hospitality and a cosy breakfast lounge.
- Flanders Hotel
- Key details: Combines contemporary design with a tranquil courtyard, located within easy walking distance of major attractions.
Luxury Hotels (Bruges)
- Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
- Key details: A former ducal residence offering regal rooms, a lush garden, and a refined spa.
- Hotel De Tuilerieen
- Key details: Overlooking the Dijver canal, blending 15th-century elegance with modern amenities.
- Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce
- Key details: A half-timbered boutique by the water, exuding opulence and old-world glamour with custom furnishings.
9. Stockholm, Sweden
Comprising 14 islands connected by bridges, Stockholm radiates a unique waterfront appeal. Its old town, Gamla Stan, is a labyrinth of medieval lanes, while modern districts champion sleek Scandinavian design. With a reputation for sustainability, world-class museums, and a dynamic culinary scene, Stockholm appeals to both culture vultures and nature lovers.
Why Visit in 2025
- Sustainability hub: Stockholm is a leader in green initiatives, with expansions in eco-friendly public transport and renewable energy systems.
- Design epicentre: By 2025, expect innovative design exhibitions and architecture tours showcasing Swedish functionality and creativity.
- Seasonal diversity: From summer’s Midnight Sun to cosy winter markets, each season offers distinct charms.
Must-See Experiences
- Gamla Stan: Wander through the medieval Old Town, replete with colourful houses, the Royal Palace, and quaint cafes.
- Vasa Museum: Showcases the salvaged 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, impeccably preserved.
- Skansen: An open-air museum exhibiting Swedish heritage with historic buildings, a zoo, and folk traditions.
- ABBA The Museum: Pay homage to Sweden’s iconic pop band with interactive exhibits that will have you singing along.
- Boat Tours: Navigate the city’s waterways on public ferries or sightseeing tours for panoramic harbour views.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Stockholm)
- Generator Stockholm
- Key details: A stylish hostel near the city centre, offering private rooms and dorms with a lively social vibe.
- City Backpackers Hostel
- Key details: Popular with budget travellers, featuring cosy lounges, communal kitchens, and free pasta.
- Hotel Micro
- Key details: Offers compact rooms at affordable prices, a short walk from major transport links.
Boutique Hotels (Stockholm)
- Hotel Rival
- Key details: Owned by Benny Andersson of ABBA, featuring retro-chic decor and a trendy bistro in the Södermalm district.
- Ett Hem
- Key details: A luxurious boutique hotel in a former townhouse, offering a homely atmosphere with high-end design.
- Hellstens Glashus
- Key details: A hip boutique in Södermalm, combining industrial elements with warm Scandinavian touches.
Luxury Hotels (Stockholm)
- Grand Hôtel Stockholm
- Key details: A waterfront legend overlooking the Royal Palace, boasting a spa, Michelin-starred dining, and refined service.
- Hotel Diplomat
- Key details: Located on the prestigious Strandvägen, blending art nouveau elegance with contemporary comfort.
- Lydmar Hotel
- Key details: A boutique luxury hybrid featuring sleek interiors, an art collection, and harbour views, situated by the National Museum.
10. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Perched on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is famed for its stone walls, Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and crystal-clear waters. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this UNESCO World Heritage city offers a harmonious balance of cultural heritage and coastal relaxation, making it an unmissable European jewel.
Why Visit in 2025
- Heritage preservation: Dubrovnik has ongoing efforts to protect its Old Town walls, ensuring they remain accessible and well-maintained.
- Expanding off-season travel: With a push to reduce overtourism, more festivals and activities will be available year-round by 2025.
- Adriatic exploration: Nearby islands like Lokrum and the Elafiti archipelago promise an easy escape into pristine nature.
Must-See Experiences
- Old Town Walls: A walk around the ancient walls provides panoramic views of terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Adriatic.
- Stradun (Placa): The central promenade is lined with historic buildings and cafes, excellent for people-watching.
- Lokrum Island: Just a short ferry ride away, featuring botanical gardens, peacocks, and hidden coves.
- Cable Car to Mount Srđ: For a breathtaking vista of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, particularly memorable at sunset.
- Elafiti Islands Boat Tour: Hop between Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan to experience tranquil beaches and traditional Dalmatian villages.
Budget-Friendly Hotels (Dubrovnik)
- Villa Sigurata
- Key details: Located in the Old Town’s narrow streets, offering cosy rooms at reasonable prices.
- Hostel Angelina
- Key details: Within the city walls, popular with backpackers who want to stay amidst the historic centre.
- Dubrovnik Apartments Lele
- Key details: Basic apartments outside the city centre, great for those with a tighter budget and seeking privacy.
Boutique Hotels (Dubrovnik)
- St. Joseph’s Boutique Hotel
- Key details: A restored 16th-century building in the Old Town, featuring stylish suites and personalised service.
- Villa Orsula
- Key details: Overlooking the sea, blending historic architecture with contemporary design for an intimate experience.
- Villa Dubrovnik
- Key details: A modern boutique property perched on the cliffs, renowned for its sea views and romantic ambience.
Luxury Hotels (Dubrovnik)
- Hotel Excelsior
- Key details: A landmark hotel offering panoramic views, luxurious rooms, and a private beach area.
- Villa Agave
- Key details: A five-star villa with exclusive privacy, featuring personalised butler service and unrivalled views of the Old Town.
- Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
- Key details: Known for its lavish spa, entertainment options, and location near the historic centre, with sweeping sea vistas.
Europe offers an extraordinary variety of cultures, landscapes, and historical depth, making it a treasure trove of destinations for UK travellers in 2025. From the Renaissance splendour of Florence and the architectural vibrancy of Barcelona to the romantic canals of Bruges and the classical elegance of Vienna, each city on this list is poised to provide a captivating escape. Meanwhile, lesser-explored gems like Kraków or Dubrovnik bring unique perspectives through their rich heritage and scenic beauty. By tailoring your trip to your preferences, a budget-friendly sojourn, an indulgent boutique retreat, or an opulent luxury experience—these ten European cities will provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories that will linger long after you’ve returned home.
