Enjoy a culture-filled trip to one of Europe’s most important cities
Athens, Greece
Dominated by the magnificent Acropolis, this ancient temple city is rich with history, culture, art and gastronomy. Top of any itinerary should be a visit to the Parthenon – the well-preserved ancient temple at the Acropolis that was built to worship the Goddess Athena, who the city’s named after. It’s popular with history lovers and keen photographers, mostly thanks to its 360-degree views across the city below. Just a ten-minute walk away, the neighbourhood of Plaka is the oldest in the city and offers cosy cobbled streets, souvenir shops, and plenty of cafés serving up tempting treats. Elsewhere, the Athens Riviera is just a tram ride away and has some stunning beaches to relax on between busy days exploring the city’s sights, museums and galleries.
For a beautiful base to relax in, check out the newly opened Gatsby Athens Hotel. With stylish rooms, an all-day restaurant, bar and roof garden with views of the city, it’s a perfectly located retreat.
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Rooms at the Gatsby Athens Hotel start from £150 per night, based on two people sharing a double standard room on a bed and breakfast basis. For more information and to book, go to Gatsbyathens.com
Berlin, Germany
Explore Germany’s vibrant capital city, including key sights like the Schönhausen Palace, Cecilienhof, and the Botanic Garden on the new Treasures of Berlin tour. Highlights of the week-long trip include a guided tour of Berlin Cathedral, a visit to Charlottenburg Palace, and an audio-guided tour of Sanssouci Palace. The museum at Schloss Britz is on the itinerary, as is a city walking tour and river cruise. The base for the week is the Park Inn Alexanderplatz, the city’s tallest hotel, which boasts great views from the roof terrace.
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The Treasures of Berlin seven-day tours departs 13 July 2022 and costs from £999 per person based on two sharing. Price includes return flights from Bristol, Gatwick, Luton, Heathrow or Manchester, six nights’ accommodation with breakfast, two dinners and the excursions, and the tour is escorted by a tour manager in Germany. For more information or to book, go to Justgoholidays.com
Bern, Switzerland
Nicknamed “the capital of leisure”, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has a surprising small-town feel. Surrounded by forests and the Alps beyond, it’s brimming with historic monuments, buildings and museums – all nestled in the horseshoe bend of the Aare River. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and discover its sandstone façades, narrow alleys, Clock Tower with hourly mechanical show and one of the longest sheltered shopping promenades in Europe. There are also more than 100 fountains to spot, with many that are over 500 years old.
The Hotel Schweizerhof is the city’s oldest five-star hotel, located right in the heart of the city and home to the legendary Jack’s Brasserie. It also has a stunning spa and offers amazing panoramic views over the city and old town from its Sky Terrace.
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Stay at the Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa from £360 per night in a double room, including breakfast. Go to Schweizerhofbern.com for more information and to book.
Prague, Czech Republic
The beautiful city of Prague is home to incredible architecture, delicious food and vibrant nightlife. Known as both the city of 100 spires and the Venice of the East, it boasts medieval houses, an illuminated Old Town Hall, and a starry night sky. The Old Town is packed with picture-perfect streets and architecture, too. Walk over the iconic Charles Bridge, stopping to make a wish at the St John of Nepomuk statue as you go, then head to the fairy-tale castle perched on the hill for beautiful views of the city and the Vltava River – and make sure you visit the local pubs to try some of the finest Czech beers, too. The Choco Story chocolate museum is worth a visit and, if you’re short on time, the historical tram tour takes in 35 top landmarks in just 50 minutes. The popular Andel (Angel) District is home to stylish boutiques and the hottest restaurants, and is also where you’ll find the Vienna House Andel hotel.
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Executive rooms at the Vienna House Andel cost from £97 per night. Go to Viennahouse.com for more information and to book.
Rome, Italy
For a leisurely way to take in the iconic sights of the Italian capital, try Ramblers Walking Holidays’ Roman Holiday break. Immersed in history and world-class art at every step, get a feel for the once-great empire by exploring its ancient streets and impressive baroque squares. With theatrical Bernini fountains looming over Roman ruins, walk in the footsteps of the Colosseum’s gladiators, climb the steps of Capitoline Hill and admire the views from the top of the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to Vatican City and discover the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. Shop like a local in Campo Dei Fiori and stop to savour a gelato on the Spanish Steps. The tour also ventures further afield to take in the water gardens of Villa d’Este and the archaeological site Ostia Antica.
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Ramblers Holidays’ seven-night A Roman Holiday costs from £1,449 per person, including flights, en suite accommodation, breakfasts, dinners on five evenings, local guide on one day and all transport costs. Departs 24 September and 29 October 2022. Go to Ramblersholidays.co.uk or call 01707 331 133 to book.