How to craft the perfect European getaway this summer

Sun, comfort and style: How to craft the perfect European getaway this summer – from oases in the city to seaside wonders

Ad Feature by British Airways Holidays

Combining sunshine, cultural immersion and incredible landscapes right on our doorstep, a European break is perfect for a last-minute summer break. Looking for city sophistication? Or perhaps a spot of beachfront relaxation? 

From Rome’s storied ruins to the glitzy casinos of Monte Carlo and Spain’s southern coast, a world of variety is just a short flight away.

Book with British Airways Holidays and you can enjoy everything you need in one handy package. Deposits starting from a low £60 per person with the flexibility to pay off your balance in as many instalments as you like*. 

A partnership with Accor offers an incredible range of elegant accommodations in all your favourite destinations, from the palatial glamour of the Fairmont Monte Carlo to the premium charm of Mercure hotels in Porto and Rome.

You’ll enjoy great value holidays, with the quality and peace of mind you expect from British Airways. All British Airways Holidays are ATOL-protected and include a 23kg baggage allowance per person plus there’s a 24-hour holiday helpline if you need assistance on your holiday.

SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort Hotel – Sotogrande, Spain

World-class golf course, sea-view penthouses and five-star luxury at SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort Hotel

A colourful harbour resort set on the coast between glamorous Marbella and the Rock of Gibraltar, Sotogrande exudes exclusivity and elegance on Spain’s sunniest shores.

Hosting endless Mediterranean views, access to six world-class golf courses and a wellness centre offering 2,800 sqm of tranquillity, SO/ Sotogrande blends five-star luxury with authentic Andalusian warmth.

If you’re looking to combine lush nature with gourmet cuisine and sparkling pools, this elegant cortijo weaves together activity-packed kid’s clubs with an indulgent spa and spacious, sun-flooded suites. Whether opting for an exquisite sea-view penthouse or adjoining rooms perfect for multi-generational trips, everyone will find the seclusion they need to relax.

Explore the glittering coast, national parks and the whitewashed-village charm, then savour a sundowner with a live music serenade at the glamorous poolside chiringuito.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/sosotogrande 

Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery Collection – Athens, Greece

Sweeping views of the Acropolis can be enjoyed from the infinity pool atop the Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery Collection

Set in the beating heart of ancient Athens, this hotel stands beside the avant-garde galleries of Kolonaki, the lush nature of the National Gardens and the regal elegance of the Old Royal Palace. With exclusive art pieces from local artists decorating the walls, Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery Collection offers an inspirational stay,

Admire the ancient Acropolis as you cool off in the rooftop infinity pool, uncover the chic elegance of the Galerie Cafe, and savour a gourmet bite in one of three award-winning restaurants. Inside your suite, the landmark building takes on a modern tone with minimalist elegance in muted tones. Whether you’ve opted for the sun-splashed terrace of the Presidential Suite or the cosy warmth of a Deluxe room, expect serenity and seclusion.

A five-star vision of contemporary glamour with views that transport you to Athens’ past, this is the ultimate luxury city-centre haven.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/atenascapital 

Mercure Porto Centro Aliados – Porto, Portugal

A stone’s throw from the city’s top attraction sits the charming Mercure Porto Centro Aliados

A charming port city hosting colourful neighbourhoods and exquisite waterfront restaurants, Porto is a haven of style and wine on Portugal’s northern coast. And from the atmospheric Old Town to the cool port wine cellars, all the top attractions are within an easy walk of the four-star Mercure Porto Centro Aliados.

A colour palette of soft greys and rich blues reflects the Douro River’s flowing waters, while the sun-kissed terrace hosts a crystal-clear pool perfect for cooling off. The restaurant offers local cuisine to be enjoyed al fresco, while elegant rooms provide privacy in the centre of the vibrant city.

Enjoy a coffee with a pool view on your private balcony, and an indulgent breakfast at the restaurant before a day of sightseeing, wine-tasting and boat trips along the river.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/mercurepc 

NIKO Seaside Resort MGallery – Crete, Greece

Plunge into one of the 80 pools at adult-only oasis NIKO Seaside Resort, member of the MGallery Hotel Collection

Mythic Crete blends Minoan heritage with a thrilling modern history, and the seafront town of Agios Nikolaos offers the perfect base to explore. The latest addition to the MGallery Hotel Collection in Greece, this adults-only oasis is located in the heart of the vibrant city centre, an easy boat trip away from the historically-rich island of Spinalonga.

NIKO Seaside Resort offers turquoise views of Mirabello Bay and a modern interior design concept inspired by the island’s diverse nature and colours. More than 80 pools – from plunge pools to infinity pools – blend seamlessly with the minimalist architecture to offer a truly refreshing and sophisticated escape.

Enjoy early morning yoga, sundowners with stunning sea views and sushi dinner under the stars at this unique boutique-style hotel and cherish memorable moments of authentic Cretan hospitality.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/nikoseaside 

Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo – Rome, Italy

With stunning views of the Coliseum, Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo is the perfect base from which to enjoy la Città Eterna

When in Rome… you want to be in the heart of the action. With so much to explore, a great location just steps from the Colosseum and close to both the Roman Forum and Trajan’s Market is ideal. The four-star Mercure Roma Centro Coliseu hotel offers guests complete comfort when they’re not out exploring.

Relax in the rooftop pool with its incredible views across to the Colosseum – this is also the perfect spot for a sundowner at the pool bar. Upgrade to a superior room and you can even choose that same famous view from your window, and if you’re looking for light bites, the hotel bar will serve sustenance throughout the day.

With incredible sites and great transport links nearby, this is a great base to explore the Eternal City.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/mercurerc 

Fairmont Monte Carlo – Monte Carlo, Monaco

Get a taste of the high life at Fairmont Monte Carlo with a Deluxe Premium Sea View Room

A gem of the French Riviera, Monte Carlo is an idyll of glamour, glitz, and extensive Mediterranean views. Monaco’s most stylish neighbourhood, this is a millionaire’s playground, and the Fairmont hotel stands at the heart of it all.

Just steps away from the exclusive casino, guests at the Fairmont Monte Carlo enjoy breakfast overlooking the sparkling blue waters, cosy cabanas lining the expansive pools and candlelit al fresco dinners serenaded by the calm Mediterranean waters. Indulge in a Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influence at Nobu, Mediterranean zest at l’Horizon, and hand-crafted cocktails by the pool.

You’ll wake up in contemporary rooms and suites recently renovated, with a chic decoration and a private terrace with an unrivalled view on the sea, the garden or the famous Haipin bend. Step into bliss at La Vallée Spa.

British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your 2023 holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/fairmontmc 

Whether seeking waterfront charm in the sun-kissed Monaco, the sun-blushed flavours of sultry Andalucia or a glimpse into heritage Europe’s most privileged neighbourhoods, British Airways Holidays and Accor Hotels offer the perfect solution to your wanderlust this year.

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your next holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/accor

Upgrade to a Club Europe cabin

Every holiday should start from the moment you’ve finished packing your suitcase.

Want to make your holiday extra special? Upgrade to Club Europe to enjoy a more luxurious trip, with dedicated check-in desks*, private lounges* and an increased baggage allowance. 

You’ll get to relish more personal space and complimentary food and drinks on board, starting your holiday in the right way – in anticipation of what’s to come. 

*Where available.

*T&Cs apply. Deposit balance due 28 days in advance for short haul.

Source: Read Full Article