Europe sets the standard when it comes to immersive experiences set in spectacular destinations. Thanks to its unique blend of cultural diversity, innovative fashion, electric culinary favors, and rich history, there are as many new discoveries as old. Many iconic European cities are central hubs for cruising, with ports in Copenhagen, Barcelona, and Rome making them ideal locations to extend your holiday and create an invaluably engaging experience, whether extending your cruise or for a standalone visit. Here, we celebrate of our favorite cities and hotels.
With the wonderful selection of fast trains within Europe, people are doing two or three days in a city, then moving on to another country so these days you can experience challenging cultures in record time.
Many people are taking a cruise, then adding another week to explore another city on their bucket list.
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With so many special offerings of free airfare to Europe, people are being creative when adding on to the cruise route.
Rome, Italy
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Rome charms you with its unrivaled archaeological treasures, rustic cuisine, and ancient character. Escape to the Eternal City where you can stay in a renovated 19th century palace, the Hotel Bernini Bristol, and indulge in the refined ambiance and comfortable elegance of its suites overlooking the quaint fountains and streets of the city. The five star accommodations face the famous Piazza Barberini and are a two minute walk from the Four Fountains intersection, symbolizing the meeting of chastity and strength, as well as the Baroque church named for the fountains, Chiesa di San Carolo alle Quanttro Fontaine. Your specialized travel agent can arrange a free breakfast, and a room upgrade if available. Your travel agent can also arrange for pre-dinner cocktails on the rooftop terrace as the sun goes down.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The picturesque city of Copenhagen is a shopping and entertainment mecca and displays it all with the cutting edge aesthetic trademark of Scandinavian style. The city’s simple gracefulness is showcased best at the Palace Hotel, Copenhagen, an historic structure with modern amenities with first class service.
You would enjoy Nordic cuisine with a breathtaking view of Town Hall Square through floor to ceiling windows, or take advantage of the hotel’s privileged central location, which provides you with unparalleled access to Copenhagen’s finest offerings. Visit Stroger’s cheerful array of shops and the famous Little Mermaid statue. Go to the ballet at the nearby Opera House, one of the most modern opera houses in the world. Wander around the Tivoli Gardens for a wonderful dinner.
Barcelona, Spain
With cultural roots dating back thousands of years, Barcelona is the ultimate city for both art lovers and artists alike. Within walking distance from the lively hub of the city, the Majestic Hotel & Spa serves as the ideal starting point to explore what the city has to offer.
Other favorite destinations and hotels are: Lisbon, Portugal, the five star Tivoli Lisboa, Athens, Greece, the Athenaeum Intercontinental Hotel, Venice, Italy, the Hotel Londra Palace, London, England, the St.Pancras Renaissance, and in Istanbul, Turkey, the Bosphonus.
Book early to get the best selection of what is offered.
Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.