If I could live in one European city, it would be the Renaissance city of Florence! It’s a living, breathing museum with cobbled streets, majestic palazzi, delicious food, stylish people and best of all it has some fantastic boutique hotels to choose from. Read on to find out which small boutique hotels in Florence I would recommend.

If you’ve ever daydreamed about having your own ultra-stylish Roman apartment (with hotel-level service and zero stress), then let me introduce you to J.K. Place Roma—a boutique hotel that’s basically the fashion set’s secret address in the Eternal City.

Imagine plunging into Lake Geneva's crisp waters while snow dusts the surrounding mountains. The Bains des Pâquis makes this dreamlike scenario a reality year-round. This beloved public bath, perched on a jetty extending into the lake, has been a Geneva institution since 1872.

There’s nowhere better to be during the winter than the Algarve - sunshine, great food, big blue skies and lovely beaches.

Europe has always been a dream destination for students seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. As 2026 approaches, the continent offers more opportunities than ever for young travellers to explore its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities. Whether you're planning a gap year, semester break, or summer adventure, discovering Europe on a student budget is entirely achievable with the right planning and insider knowledge.

Sicily has layers. Coastlines that glitter, hills that roll into vineyards, markets that fizz with life, and towns where you can happily lose an afternoon. This is a place to slow down, take the side streets and watch the rhythm of local life unfold. One minute you’re wandering past Baroque churches, the next you’re tasting panelle in a noisy market or swimming off a rocky cove.

Luxury here isn’t fuss. It’s space, comfort and experiences that feel honest and unforced. Below I’ve picked five stand-out spots, with what to see, where to eat and the simple pleasures that make each place worth your time. This isn’t a box-ticking tour. It’s about doing Sicily properly.

Sometimes you just need to press pause. Europe’s beauty isn’t only in its grand cathedrals or crowded museums; it’s in those quiet corners where time stretches. Picture yourself walking through misty vineyards, sitting by a lake so still it mirrors the sky, or waking up to the sound of sheep on a hillside. These are the kind of places that make you exhale without realising you’ve been holding your breath.

Where to go in Europe for a romantic weekend away.

Six Senses Kaplankaya in Turkey has the most complete and expert spa offering of all of the Six Senses luxury hotels.

Head to the Med for September sunshine…

New boutique lifestyle hotel opens on Mykonos..

Top luxury hotel recommendations in Positano, Amalfi Coast

New Don’t Worry bar opens at Hotel Le Sirenuse on the Amalfi Coast..

Katikies, Santorini, one of the best boutique hotels in the Greek Islands

Grantley Hall, luxury hotel in Yorkshire has an enviable spa. Three Graces focuses on the holistic re-balancing of your emotional, physical and mental wellbeing.

Exceptional all-rounder Rockliffe Hall is a luxury hotel and spa in County Durham. This family-friendly luxury hotel is not only a fantastic spa hotel but it’s also a great choice for all levels of golfers.

The Place Firenze, the first boutique hotel in Florence now begins its next chapter, a new story, a place you’ll love to call your home during your stay in Florence.

New rooms and suites to open at luxury hotel The Newt in Somerset.

Villa Stephanie in Baden Baden is one of the best medical spas in Europe. Using an innovative high-tech approach a bespoke wellness programme is formulated by a team of some of the best health professionals in the world.

The Lanesborough Club & Spa is the most luxurious wellness club in London. The perfect retreat for the savvy, modern Londoner.