Hotels in Dublin

If you can’t decide whether you’d prefer a city break near the mountains or the sea, Nice is the perfect compromise. From the moment you arrive, you’ll understand why the flattering light, which graces this spot on the French Riviera, has a history of attracting famous artists. Explore the medieval maze of Vieux Nice, drink in the sunshine and café culture on Cours Saleya. Then wander around the boutique shops and stop for a bit of people-watching.

Things to do

Nice is a best-of-both-worlds sort of a town, where historical Vieux Nice and the Promenade des Anglais sit comfortably alongside modern art galleries and boutiques. We’ve picked out our top recommendations, to help you whittle down the wide range of activities in Nice.

Promenade des Anglais

Head to the unmissable Promenade des Anglais to start your exploring. Known as La Prom to locals, it stretches right around Nice’s sweeping bay. The promenade’s perfect for a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined seafront, and you can feel the pleasant breeze on your face as you wander in the company of skateboarders and roller skaters. Soak up the atmosphere and stop off for a drink or bite to eat at one of the many bars and cafés along the way.

Lovely waterfront

You can’t miss the Casino du Palais de la méditerranée de Nice from the promenade, which is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Whether you want to play the tables or observe from a distance, the casino has a gorgeous waterfront setting. The Old Port area’s also a picturesque spot, where flashy modern yachts sit side by side with traditional fishing boats. Grab a table with a view of the harbour as you wait for the sunset to light up the sky.

Great culture

If you’re looking for some culture then head to the Musée Matisse or the Musee d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, before you explore the Old Town and churches like the Cathédrale Sainte Réparate and Chapelle de la Miséricorde. Prepare for a feast of colour at the Cours Saleya flower market, before you settle down for a meal and toast your day with a glass of French wine.

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We also have travel guides available for City Breaks destinations, including: Brussels | Gibraltar | Malaga | Rome

London weekend breaks will whisk you away to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and historical attractions. From Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge to the West End and the London Eye, you’ll be captivated by the iconic features which make this city so mesmerising. Attracting over 30 million tourists each year, London is renowned for its quirky villages and thriving financial industry. Just one walk through the town is enough to understand why ‘The Big Smoke’ is regarded as the capital of capitals.

London is the perfect city break destination, both contemporary and steeped in history, to enjoy a unique blend of culture, art, and shopping. Head up the Shard for a rooftop cocktail, shop till you drop on Oxford Street, or enjoy an in-depth history lesson whilst exploring Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey.

Perfect for exploring

Although it’s a prominent place, London can still be explored on foot. If you have a lot of ground to cover, The London Underground (known as the tube) will take you to where you need to be in no time at all. With over 250 tube stations located across the city, you’ll never have to walk too far to hop on a train.

Westminster

With over 2000 years of history behind it, London is home to more landmarks than any other city in the world. For a peek at the most iconic sights, take the tube to Westminster and witness Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Wander over to Westminster Abbey and take in the incredible architecture as you learn about the kings and queens that have stepped foot in this building.

And of course, no trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Walk along The Mall towards the Victoria Memorial and spend some time at the palace gates. You capture some great photos and then continue on to other famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square. Stroll by the River Thames and cross over to the Southbank to ride on the London Eye for stunning views across the city.

London is also renowned for its lush green spaces. Head into Hyde Park and witness the unique ecosystems, memorials, and monuments that this open space is home to. Stretching over 350 acres, it’s the largest of the Royal Parks in London and never fails to look spectacular, whatever the weather.

Camden

For stylish, artsy vibes, head to London Camden Town. This area is always abuzz with people skimming the stalls for hidden treasures to the world-famous Camden Market. As one of the most vibrant spots in the city, visitors come for unique street art, international cuisine at Camden Lock Market and Regent’s Canal in the afternoon sunshine.

Notting Hill

Lined by beautiful pastel-coloured houses and home to Europe’s largest street festival, Notting Hill is much more than an iconic film setting. Write your own love story in this picturesque location as you browse independent shops and stalls at Portobello Market and stop for a bite to eat at one of the chic cafés.

Shoreditch

One of London’s most diverse areas, Shoreditch is renowned for its artisan coffee shops, vintage boutiques, and cocktail bars. Indulge in some street food on Great Eastern Street or head to Brick Lane to sample some of London’s finest curry houses. Marvel at the city’s best street art and enjoy a game of ping pong at Bounce before hitting up some of the best clubs.

Incredible culture

From iconic museums and galleries like the British Museum and the Tate Modern to the West End with its fabulous theatre shows and musicals, London is a mecca for cultural history buffs. It’s also the home of Notting Hill Carnival, an annual street party where colourful parades fill the streets over two days in August.

Besides great nightlife and some incredible restaurants, London is also full of many hidden surprises such as popup rooftop eateries, contemporary art walks, and secret hidden gardens. And who knows, you might be just around the corner from a buzzing buskers festival!

Food and drink

As one of the most influential restaurant cities globally, London’s food and drink scene are like no other. Over the past half a century, the capital has undergone a dramatic shift from traditional dining styles to recipes infused with flavours and influences from neighbourhoods across the city. From Michelin­-starred restaurants to renowned food markets, the capital boasts excellent places to sate your hunger and quench your thirst.

From Club Mexicana to The Athenian, there are many food stalls and markets to explore in London. Located next to Southwark Cathedral, London Borough Market is one of the city’s oldest and largest markets. Here you’ll discover different traders selling food from all over the globe. From delicious doughnuts to fresh pasta and chorizo rolls, you’re bound to find a snack to tantalise your tastebuds.

Unsurprisingly, London has no shortage of incredible restaurants to match the grandeur of the city. Suppose you’re feeling fancy, head over to the famous Sketch restaurant in Mayfair where you can enjoy afternoon tea or a delicious dish from the à la carte menu, all while admiring the venue’s unique interior. Or take a trip to Radio Rooftop in Westminster, where you can witness stunning views across the Thames and sample international tapas while taking in the sunset backdrop.  

Nightlife

From jazzy nightclubs to picturesque rooftop bars, London boasts some seriously cool places to relax when the sun goes down. Each neighbourhood has something different to offer when it comes to the capital’s exciting nightlife scene. Towards the city’s western end, you’ll find luxury bars in Chelsea and Mayfair, such as Beaufort House and No. 11 Pimlico Road. Located in the heart of Belgravia, No. 11 Pimlico boasts a stunning interior and plenty of outdoor seating – the perfect backdrop to your evening of socialising.   

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, head towards Shoreditch, where you can party the night away in several famous clubs, including Fabric and XOYO. In recent years, this part of the city has totally transformed to become the trendy hotspot it is today. Throw on your dancing shoes and sample the best of London nightlife here.

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We also have travel guides available for all sorts of other city breaks destinations, including: Amsterdam | Edinburgh | Monte Carlo | Tokyo

Jam-packed with history, culture and those iconic urban backdrops, it’s no surprise Amsterdam city breaks are so popular. Of course, it helps that the capital of the Netherlands is just a short hop across the North Sea from the UK!

But don’t be fooled into thinking this famously chilled-out destination is only for short breaks and weekends away. There’s more than enough to do in and around Amsterdam for a longer getaway, from exploring sun-dappled canals and losing yourself in world-famous art to indulging in the lively night scene and mouthwateringly eclectic eats. And we've got a fantastic choice of Amsterdam hotels for your holiday.

6 reasons to visit Amsterdam

1. The warm welcome: From its cosy pubs (aka ‘brown cafes’), welcoming gay bars and buzzing clubs, to the family vibes of Amsterdam’s super-friendly Noord district, this laid-back city has its arms open to everyone.
2. Museums of every stripe: Art, history and more are all in the mix – see Rembrandts at the Rijksmuseum, discover the sobering secrets of Anne Frank House, or immerse yourself in the living history of Zaanse Schans village.
3. Eye-candy cityscapes: Think picturesque canals lined with quaint old houses, gorgeous green parks in every neighbourhood, colourful flower gardens (visit Keukenhof in spring!) and grand Dam Square with its jaw-dropping Royal Palace.
4. Moreish street food: Snack your way around Amsterdam with a delectable supply of patat (Dutch fries) smothered in mayonnaise (ask for patatje met), cheesy kaassouffle pastries, beefy kroketten and deep-fried cod (kibbeling). Don’t forget the caramel-filled stroopwafels!
5. Independent shopping: From the intriguing little shops that line De Negen Straatjes in Jordaan to the famous floating flower market on the Singel canal, Amsterdam’s a fantastic place for a browse.
6. Romantic moments: Amsterdam’s such a beautiful city, it can certainly give Paris a run for its money. Top tips for couples include the spectacular views from the A’DAM LOOKOUT, candlelit dinner cruises on the canals, and leisurely bike rides in Flevopark.

Things to do

With much more to offer than just Dam Square, old paintings and pretty canals, Amsterdam holidays are a treasure trove of places to explore and things to do. Make like a local and sip coffee in a cosy cafe. Grab a tray of haring (raw herring with pickles) from a street stall for an on-the-go lunch. Head out of the centre to districts such as De Pijp, Amsterdam Oost and Zuidoost, where you can catch Ajax FC at home at Johan Cruyff ArenA. Or hop on a train to nearby Rotterdam, Utrecht or Haarlem.

Go sightseeing

Top of the must-visit list for a spot of culture is Museumplein, where you’ll find the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum (fine art), Stedelijk Museum (modern art) and the Royal Concertgebouw concert hall. Or if it’s alfresco attractions you’re after, check out the panorama from A’DAM LOOKOUT (will you dare try Europe’s highest swing?) and the tree-framed lakes and lawns of beautiful Vondelpark.

You should also lose yourself in the quaint alleyways of the Jordaan district, dip into Amsterdam’s history at spots like the Joods Historisch Museum and Anne Frank House, and stroll the cobbles of De Wallen, the oldest part of the city. But be warned, De Wallen is not a place to take the kids, as it’s also Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District.

And of course, for the quintessential Amsterdam sightseeing experience, you have to book a canal tour.

Get a taste of city life

Foodies, music lovers, shoppers and beer drinkers alike are in for a real treat on Amsterdam city breaks. The Dam’s social scene is an eclectic mix of live music venues, buzzing restaurants and inviting pubs, bars and cafes, while shopping ranges from fascinating flea markets to the luxury retailers in Oud Zuid.

Try homely dishes like suddervlees (beef stew) from a traditional Dutch eatery, such as Moeders in the city centre. Go beer tasting at a craft brewery or immerse yourself in the Heineken Experience. Pick a cocktail joint to suit your style, from the chilled vibes of Bar Mokum to the super swish Twenty Third. Throw yourself into the famous nightlife of Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein and the LGBTQ+ focused Reguliersdwarsstraat. Or check what’s on at one of the city’s hugely popular gig spots, led by the famous Paradiso and Melkweg – which is basically three live music venues in one!

As for shopping, classic Amsterdam souvenirs include wooden clogs, tasty local cheeses (there are tons of specialist shops, or you could visit a cheese farm!), and pretty Delftware porcelain. You can also pick up vintage bargains at the Waterlooplein market, hop between record stores and designer boutiques in De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) and buy flower bulbs from the barges of the floating Bloemenmarkt.

Explore outside Amsterdam Centrum

If you’ve got more than a couple of days for your Amsterdam city break, or if you’ve been before, make sure you head out to some of the neighbourhoods outside the city centre. De Pijp’s perfect for free spirits, Amsterdam’s answer to Paris’ bohemian Latin Quarter. It’s home to the huge Albert Cuyp street market and all sorts of lively bars and cafes. Over to the east, explore the refined boulevards of De Plantage, tuck into melt-in-the-mouth Turkish pastries in Amsterdam Oost, and soak up the classy vibes of the city’s newest neighbourhood, IJburg.

Zuidoost is the place to go for big-name entertainment, from football to arena shows in venues like AFAS Live and Ziggo Dome, and sailing on tranquil Gaasperplas lake. And then there’s Amsterdam Noord, with its combo of cutting-edge architecture, waterfront terraces, flea markets and the NDSM Wharf culture hotspot. 

Plus Amsterdam holidays are perfect for bike rides to rural villages, such as Ransdorp, a day trip to the idyllic Zaanse Schans living museum (windmills, clog makers, and more), and train rides to Rotterdam, Utrecht and Haarlem. Planning Amsterdam holidays for the summer? Pack your beach gear for a day in clubbers’ favourite Bloemedaal aan Zee or chilled-out Zandvoort, an old fishing village (you can get to both by train). And don’t miss your chance to visit the incredible Muiderslot castle!
 

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Got the travel bug? Check out our guides to an array of other exciting cities in Europe and beyond, including: Barcelona | Copenhagen | London | New York | Paris | Rome | Singapore | Venice

Edinburgh has a rich heritage and a contemporary feel, making it a great city break destination. Stand in awe of its cliff top castle as the sound of bagpipes fill the streets or spend a day trying to catch a glimpse of the famous giant pandas which call its zoo home.

Things to do in Edinburgh

The famous Edinburgh Castle rises above the city on Castle Rock, with plenty to see inside, including the Scottish crown jewels. For the best of the city, head up to the extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat, armed with your camera of course. From here, you’ll be able to gaze down over the Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town. 

When you think of the Scottish capital, there’s one sight that springs to mind - the famous Edinburgh Castle. Rising above the city on Castle rock, you can reach the castle by walking up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano with an elevation of 250m. From here, you’ll be able to gaze down over the city’s Medieval Old Town as well as the graceful Georgian New Town. Make sure to check out the Scottish crown jewels at the castle before heading back down. 

Once you’re back on ground level, spend an afternoon browsing the fascinating Scottish National Gallery or go on a tour of a gin distillery. Sit down for a traditional meal of haggis before you spend the evening sampling some beautifully-aged Scottish whisky. 

Make sure you check the events calendar before your trip to Edinburgh, as you might be in for a treat. From the Edinburgh International Festival to the Fringe and Royal Military Tattoo, there are some fabulous celebrations across the city. If you’re going for New Year’s Eve, then Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of the best places to party the night away as you sing Auld Lang Syne at the top of your lungs.

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We also have travel guides available for City Breaks destinations, including: Copenhagen | Istanbul | Nice | Qatar | Vienna

Holidays to Ireland promise beautiful natural scenery, magnificent architecture and buzzing towns. Also known as the Emerald Isle due to its lush green landscapes, Ireland is a real gem of a holiday location. 

As a country steeped in myth and legend, Ireland boasts a variety of fascinating places to explore. Take a trip to the Giant’s Causeway and learn about Finn McCool, an important figure in Irish mythology. Game of Thrones fans can also visit the locations where much of the series was filmed, such as the Cushendun Caves and Ballycastle.  

Or explore some of Ireland’s vibrant cities where you can relax with a pint of Guinness and witness some incredible historic monuments. Whether you’re visiting as a couple or a group of friends, Ireland holidays promise something for everyone.  

Irish Cities and Towns  

Ireland is home to many charming, charismatic cities and towns. From Dublin’s vibrant atmosphere to Cork’s unrivalled natural landscapes, each city offers something unique to enhance your holiday experience.  

Dublin is located in the eastern-central part of Ireland. This iconic hotspot is defined by idyllic cobblestone streets, interesting museums and a buzzing music scene. Home to the famous Temple Bar and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church, it boasts great culture and history.  

'Shopping fans can enjoy a spot of retail therapy at Brown Thomas and George's Street Arcade. A tour around the Guinness Storehouse is also a must. Discover more about the history of the famed Irish ‘Black Stuff’ and learn how to pour your own pint.  

Situated in the southwest of Ireland, Cork is one of the best places to enjoy Ireland’s beautiful natural scenery. Enjoy a picnic in Fitzgerald Park, perfect for a chilled-out afternoon in the sun. Or take a trip to Spike Island, a place with a fascinating and diverse history.  

Landscape and Nature  

Ireland is a total haven for nature lovers. This picturesque country offers endless photo opportunities, from its rolling hills to its staggering cliff walls that rise out of the ocean. Ireland also has some spectacular mountain ranges that will simply take your breath away, such as the MacGillycuddy's Reeks and the Wicklow Mountains.  

One of the country’s most photo-worthy spots is the Glendalough Valley, otherwise known as ‘the valley of two lakes’. Located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, it’s home to a fascinating Monastic City and a variety of wildlife, including deer and wild goats.  

And of course, holidays in Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast. These are magnificent areas of geological importance and have inspired legends of giants walking over the sea. Marvel at the 40, 000 enormous columns of basalt that form a pavement here – a dramatic sight not to be missed.  

Irish Food and Drink  

Traditional Irish cuisine is made up of family recipes passed down through the generations. The food is hearty and delicious, and there are plenty of different dishes to try.  

Right at the top of your list should be Irish stew, a warming one-pot concoction of mutton and vegetables (including potatoes, which Ireland is famous for). Colcannon is another popular dish consisting of a mashed combination of potatoes, butter and cabbage. Or sample a delicious Boxty, a popular pancake-like potato creation.  

When it comes to drinks, Ireland is well-known for its whiskey and beer. You can enjoy a pint of Jameson Irish Whiskey or Smithwick’s Irish Ale in just about any pub. Irish coffee is another popular beverage, made up of Irish whiskey, hot coffee, sugar and whipped cream.