Winter in Sydney… Try summer in Europe!

A top-notch list of places to visit (and stay) this summer in Europe.

In the past, luxurious holidays meant travelling for hours and hours to exotic locations, and this time consuming exercise is something that would often put people off. Luckily for us though, travelling has become a lot more efficient, and travelling to Europe is a lot “closer” than it used to be. But where does one even start? Europe is a big place, and deciding to travel there can be a daunting task when determining where exactly you want to go. And even once you have that down, finding the perfect place to stay can be just as much a chore.

Here’s a list based on Trip Advisor’s top 25 Europe Hotels of both places to visit and where to stay this summer in Europe.

10. Ayvali, Turkey (Gamirasu Cave Hotel)

Ayvali is situated on the Aegean Sea Coast of Turkey. There are many ruins here with much to see and a beautiful hotel located near the Ayvali village. This hotel, the Gamirasu Cave Hotel, which was used as a monastic retreat in the Byzantine Era, has 35 meticulously restored and designed cave rooms. Definitely a place worth staying if you’re looking for privacy and luxury.

9. Barcelona, Spain (Hotel The Serras)

Barcelona is a well-known must destination in Europe. And finding a nice place to stay isn’t hard its bustling streets. But if you’re looking for something a little more five-star why not try The Serras, where hotel and art majestically come together. The extravagant hotel overlooks Port Vell and the Mediterranean Sea and offers a unique hideaway.

8. Sardon de Duero, Spain (Hotel Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine)

Another place worth visiting in Spain is certainly Sardon de Duero, a place located in the province of Valladolid, Castile and León in Spain. There you will find Hotel Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine, found on the banks of the River Duero. This lavish hotel boasts some great features and can be a great break away from the hustle of life in Sydney.

7. Rome, Italy (J.K. Place Roma)

Rome is, and always will be, a favourite for holiday goers in Italy. And while some may think it’s a little predictable, J.K. Place Roma will have you questioning otherwise. This opulent hotel is ranked #4 of all the hotels in Rome and it’s no wonder why once you have a look at this excellently boutique hotel.

6. Zermatt, Switzerland (The Omnia)

Switzerland in itself is always a wonderfully decadent filled destination, but why not take it one step up and stay in Zermatt at The Omnia hotel, whose name itself sets a certain standard and where every single detail is taken into account.

5. London, UK (The Milestone Hotel)

While the UK is vast and there are many places to stay in London that meet top standards, The Milestone Hotel is just what its name says– a place to go when you’re celebrating. This five-star boutique hotel overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens has its very own distinctive charm and offers unrivalled service.

4. Oia, Greece (Canaves Oia Hotel)

When it comes to Greece, it certainly is one of those places that lives up to its reputation. Oia, Greece is located on the islands of Santorini with a gorgeous view of the seas and architecture typically found in Greece. The Canaves Oia Hotel is a hotel with both suites and villas apart from the normal (but still incredible) rooms. The elegantly classic properties offer upscale services and exclusive experiences.

3. Great Milton, UK (Belmond Le Manoir aux Qat’Saisons)

Another great place to mention in the UK is of course Great Milton, a village in Oxfordshire just east of Oxford. Great Milton is one of those quiet holiday destinations to go to when you’re looking for something peaceful. The Belmond Le Manoir aux Qat’Saisons Hotel is probably one of the best hotels there with a feast of gastronomic experiences. The hotel received two Michelin stars in 1984 and has held the standard ever since.

2. Afritos, Greece (Achtis Hotel)

Ah Greece, such a great place, it had to be on the list twice. Afritos is a village in northern Greece and is situated on the north eastern coast of the Kassandra peninsula. The Achtis Hotel is one of the most idyllic destinations of Makedonia with both imagination and good taste. The hotel offers a picturesque experience from left to right and is hard to fault.

1. Sorrento, Italy (Bellevue Syrene)

Finally, the number one place to go to and stay in Europe is none other than Sorrento, Italy. Italy is and forever will hold true to its reputation as one of the best places with the best food. Bellevue Syrene Hotel established in 1820 is another five-star hotel that peaks on the waves with terraces dominating the Gulf of Naples. Now, what other way is there to get away, and be away, than in the place like this?