Liv Kelly

When you hear the term ‘winter city break’, you’re probably picturing Christmas markets, hot chocolates and snow-capped mountains as far as the eye can see. But with some of our favourite summer holiday destinations getting hotter and hotter (and falling victim to the affects of years of overtourism), it might be time to start thinking outside the box.  Hear us out: winter travel, but not where you’d expect it. Think Italian hotspots without the crowds, Mediterranean holidays without the heat and underrated cities that aren’t even on your travel radar yet. These are our top unexpected picks for winter, selected by Time Out editors.  ☀️ Europe’s best destinations for winter sun Underrated winter destinations at a glance 🏛 Best for a historic buildings: Athens, Greece 🎄 Best for local traditions: Madrid, Spain 🎭 Best for avoiding crowds: Venice, Italy ⛷️ Best for skiing: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina  Ella Doyle is Time Out’s travel guides editor. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.  📍 The ultimate guide to destinations in Europe

We’ve reached that time of year when there are now less than 100 days until Christmas. It might not be time to start untangling your fairy lights or baking mince pies, but there’s no harm in giving a little thought to your festive social plans. As winter arrives, Christmassy pop-ups spring up in central London, with plenty of cosy atmosphere that makes them perfect for a festive little tete-a-tete. We’re talking riverside heated igloos, Alpine-themed lodges and kitschy nostalgia-themed bars that will keep you warm and, most importantly, full of food and festive drinks. Most spots aren’t yet confirmed for 2025, but keep an eye on this page for the best hideaways, markets and quirky festive experiences waiting to lure you in from the cheek-tingling cold. London's best winter pop-ups at a glance: 🎢 Best for coaster kids: Winter Funland, West Kensington🎅 Best for partying with Santa: Humbug, Waterloo🥌 Best for silly sports: Club Curling, various locations🐷 Best for old-school feasting: The Great Christmas Feast, West Kensington🥶 Best for daredevils: Up at the O2's snow globe climbs, Greenwich PeninsulaRECOMMENDED: Here are the best things do in London this Christmas

Whether you’re a fully-fledged railfan or just a traveller who loves convenience, 2024 has been an unmatched year when it comes to new night services. Countries throughout Europe, in bids to make travelling more planet-friendly and affordable, have launched countless sleeper routes this year, meaning most of us now have plenty of motivation to swap flights for night trains on our next trip. In other words, sleeper trains are back, baby, and at Time Out, we’re here for it. With the option to hop on a train, journey thousands of miles and wake up in your destination (hopefully with enough energy to go out and explore), night services are kind of ideal scenarios, right? And luckily, you’ve got us train afficionados on hand to point you in the right direction. So, pack your bag, embark your cabin and settle in – here are the most exciting sleeper trains we can’t wait to ride in 2025.  RECOMMENDED:🌤️The most scenic railway journeys in Europe🗺️The ultimate Interrail itinerary for Europe🚂The most beautiful European train journeys from London🚞The best train journeys in the world At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

The stretch from November to February can feel bleak. Summer holidays and festivals suddenly seem very, very far away. But the best way to beat the winter blues is to lean in. Yes you could jet off to Barbados if you’ve got the funds, but keeping things hygge can be just as relaxing. When it comes to a winter getaway in the UK, you don’t need loads of annual leave, a long journey, or an unlimited budget. The truth is, there are plenty of brilliant spots for a quick pre- or post-Christmas escape, whether you’re after a day trip, a cosy weekend, or a week-long break. Think fresh sea air, wild reindeer sightings, snug pubs, and countless other ways to embrace the chill. Here’s our roundup of the best places in the UK for a winter break. The UK’s cosiest cottages to stay inThe UK’s best Airbnbs for Christmas At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

You’ve decided you’re travelling to London. You’ve booked your transport and downloaded a tube map, but where to stay? You’ve probably clocked that London is one massive, sprawling city, made up of neighbourhoods that each have their own unique character. Resist the urge to panic-book a fancy hotel in London’s West End – there’s plenty more out there, we promise. Dive into the real London by branching out from the well-trodden tourist path. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of somewhere totally new. Whether you’re after lively nightlife, easy access to gorgeous green spaces, culture on your doorstop, or serious dining, you’ll find it here. Ready to get booking? Read on for our guide to the best neighbourhoods and places to stay in London.  Where to stay in London at a glance Hackney - best for living like a local Camberwell - best for hyped restaurants, bakeries and galleries Camden - best for punk living and vegan food Peckham - best for BYOBs, rooftop bars and hitting the club Shoreditch - best for vintage shopping and curry houses Chiswick - best for a tranquil getaway Dalston - best for eating, drinking and nightlife Marylebone - fine dining and luxury hotels Harringay - best for neighbourhood vibes and Turkish food Hampstead - wild swimming, cosy pubs and spotting Harry Styles Richmond - leafy walks, boutique hotels and pints by the river 📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best hotels and Airbnbs in London Ella Doyle and Rosie Hewitson are editors at

Ah Christmas, it really does creep on us every year. One day you're necking tinned cocktails on a picnic blanket in a packed summer park, the next you're looking up mulled wine recipes and wondering why you don't seem to have a night off til January. But why not get ahead of the game in 2025? Start planning now, and you'll be able to shop in quaint Christmas markets instead of online panic buying, arrange family pantomime outing, drag your friends to a jolly carol service, check out seasonal pop-ups and get stellar pics of London's OTT light displays. Time Out’s editorial team start thinking about Christmas long before the first autumn leaves flutter to the ground. We've beaten the crowds for a spot at Somerset House ice rink and strolled around the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market, year after year, and we're ready to show you some more leftfield, imaginative ways to celebrate the season. Keep checking this list and you'll see it fill up with magical Christmas events for 2025; hopefully it provides you with everything you need to make the absolute most of the holiday season, London style. London’s best Christmas events at a glance:  Best for families: The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo Best for buying gifts: DIY Christmas Art Market  Best for a party: Humbug: The Immersive Christmas Dive Bar Best for music: Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival Best for festive feels: Christmas at Kew  RECOMMENDED: 🎅Check out our full guide to Christmas in London🎄Discover the best hotel

Nowhere does Christmas quite like London. Come December, this city comes alive with dazzling festive lights, Christmas markets, theatre and endless shopping. Whether you’re venturing in from a nearby city or travelling from across the pond, there are endless reasons why a stay in the UK’s capital should be at the top of your list this festive season. Ready for some serious Christmas spirit? Look no further – we’ve handpicked the best hotels to stay in at Christmas in the Capital. And we’ve covered all the bases: hotels with Christmas markets on your doorstep, hotels that look out over ice skating rinks, and hotels that go all out for their very own festive offerings, with everything from bespoke Christmas packages to mega trees and blowout festive menus. And yes, you can stay on Christmas Day too. Ready to get festive? Us too. Read on for the best Christmas hotels in London this year.  📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best hotels and Airbnbs in London  The best hotels for Christmas in London at a glance 👪 Best for families: Claridges 🏢 Best views: Shangri-La The Shard ⛄ Best for snow lovers: The Berkeley 🎄 Best Christmas tree: Landmark London ☕ Best festive afternoon tea: The Dorchester Who makes the cut? Headed up by editor Joe Mackertich, our team at Time Out London spend their time reviewing hotels all over the Capital – new openings, old classics and everything in between – to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. Along with our pool

You could revisit San Francisco countless times and always have a different experience, so we’ve compiled a list of the city’s best hotels which are sprinkled across its broad array of different neighborhoods at a range of different budgets. You’ll find ultra-luxe stays in the swanky Nob Hill as well as kind-on-your-budget spots near Fisherman’s Wharf, and pretty much everything in between. So, without further ado, here are Time Out’s picks for the best hotels in San Francisco, including new reviews of the Four Seasons at Embarcadero, the Ritz-Carlton and The Battery for Fall and Winter 2025.  Which area is best to stay in San Francisco? First time visiting the Golden City? To have as much of San Francisco as possible within easy reach, opt for somewhere near Union Square, and if you’re traveling with your family, we’d recommend Fisherman’s Wharf. However, San Francisco is vast and gloriously varied when it comes to where to stay, so other brilliant options are Nob Hill for that quintessential architecture or The Castro if you want to explore the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. Hayes Valley and Haight Ashbury are excellent for spots which are a little less central.  San Francisco’s best hotels at a glance: 💎Most luxurious: Four Seasons at Embarcadero 🛍️Best mid-range: The Clancy 👛Best budget: San Remo Hotel 🍝Best restaurant: The Jay 🤩Most iconic: Golden Gate Hotel 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best boutique hotels in San Francisco How we curate our hotel lists Our team of

Whatever your vibe (and whatever your budget), London’s got it all – and anyone will find something they love here. Historic pubs, leafy parks and gardens and an unmatched restaurant scene make this city worth visiting year-round, but before you’ve booked anything in London, you kind of have to know where you’re going to be based. To get you started, we’ve rounded up the city’s best Airbnbs available to book right now, with expert tips from our local editors.  Should I choose an Airbnb or a hotel in London? London is not short on lovely hotels, ranging from budget to luxury and just about everything in between. But it’s fair to say that even the cheaper options cost a pretty penny – and you’ll often find them in more central, touristy areas in the city. If you want to live like a Londoner, an Airbnb can allow you to properly immerse yourself in a more residential area of London – and all the locally-loved bars, pubs and restaurants that come with it. You’ll find lots of our local tips below, but for a detailed breakdown of the best neighbourhoods to stay in London, check out our ultimate area guide. More of a hotels guy? No problem. Here’s our list of the best hotels in London.  📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best hotels and Airbnbs in London Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, our writers have based our list on expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to

It will come as no surprise that Amsterdam is overrun with exceptional places to stay. And we mean every kind: 18th-century canalside mansions, converted bridge keepers’ houses, luxury historic hotels that have hosted royal weddings – the lot. But that isn’t to say that every stay here will blow the budget – there are plenty of affordable options in Amsterdam too, if you know where to look. On our list, we’ve made sure to include a bit of everything, all individually reviewed and rated by Time Out’s very own travel experts. Read on for five-star luxury, budget boutiques and everything in between.  What is the best neighbourhood to stay in Amsterdam?  There isn’t necessarily one answer to this, as each of Amsterdam’s districts offer something totally unique. If it’s your first time in the city, Centrum offers touristy experiences and classic Amsterdam views for days. For something more off-grid (and often more affordable), you’re best off catching the free ferry to Noord, Amsterdam’s creative warehouse district. But for a reliable all-rounder? We love hipster haven Oost, where you’ll find many of the city’s coolest bars, restaurants and hotels. For more, check out our full area guide.  🏘️ Looking for even more options? Check out our guide to Amsterdam’s best Airbnbs Amsterdam’s best hotels at a glance 👑 Best overall: The July - Boat & Co 🕰️ Best historical stay: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam 💸 Best budget stay: Yotel Amsterdam 🍴 Best for foodies: The Hoxton, Lloyd A

November is an underrated time of year to go travelling. Being sandwiched between the busier autumn periods and the festive season, it’s often a more affordable window to head away. You might be looking for one last vacation before the year’s out, or you might be yearning for somewhere properly snowy and festive to get in the Christmas mood. Luckily, we’ve got just the list for you. From the wintry landscapes of Finnish Lapland to the spirited storytelling and good craic of European pubs, there are loads of great places to travel in November. We’ve handpicked 11 of our favourite spots to head to at this time of year – here’s exactly what makes them so good. RECOMMENDED:☀️The best places to travel throughout the year🗺️The best places to travel in the world in December🎭The best things to do in the world🏔️The best hikes in the world🏖️The best beaches in the world At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Hear us out: October might just be the best month of the year to travel. In the Northern Hemisphere, trees have taken on gorgeous shades of orange and red, while down south, spring is settling in nicely. The weather is pleasant – not too hot, not too cold – and when the peak-season crowds have dissipated, accommodation, flights and activities tend to be a lot more reasonable.  From internationally famous events to forward-thinking sustainable travel via ice, earth and sky, the best places to travel in October are Hall of Fame destinations. So, whether you’re after somewhere cheap and hot, or down to explore a thrilling new city, dust off your passport and get a bag packed – the time to travel is now. RECOMMENDED:✈️ The best places to travel every month of the year🏘️ The world's best winter sun destinations Need more inspo? Check out our latest travel guides, written by local writers. 

St Martin's Voices and St Martin's Brass will this year be bringing us some stunningly festive performances of glorious music, carol singing and festive readings. Conducted by Andrew Earis, expect to hear beloved classic songs such as ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ and ‘O Holy Night’ plus the audience carols of ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’. Set against the beautiful backdrop of St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, these concerts promise to be a magical start to Christmas. 

What’s the vibe?  This space is one of Brighton’s most refined restaurants. It sits on Upper Market Street unbeknownst to the majority of passers-by, which gives it an exclusive, elevated vibe. The restaurant is tastefully and simply furnished with lots of pale wood and natural light giving it a beachhouse feel, and that is reflected in the menu.  What should I order?  The menu here changes regularly, but there’ll be a three-course set lunch menu for £35 per person or a decadent six-course option at dinner time which costs £85 per person. Each will include simple but super elegant seafood dishes, and the restaurant’s signature dish, the egg and soldiers, will (hopefully) be available at dinner time.

What’s the vibe?  In a nutshell, the vibe here is casual, speedy and really, really tasty. It’s unlikely you’ll wait long for your food to arrive, nor will you be at the table for much more than an hour, but we guarantee every second will be worth it. Why? Well, Bincho’s isn’t just a favourite of Brighton’s locals, but also of its chefs. What should I order? The chef here describes himself as an Izayaka fanatic, and after spending three years in Japan finessing the cooking techniques, you can bet that this is the most authentic take on southeast Asian cuisine that Brighton has to offer. There aren’t any duds on this menu – the only mistake would be not arriving ravenous.  

You might expect a Grade I National Trust property to be a bit of a stuffy and impersonal place to stay for a weekend, but Bodysgallen Hall, a lovingly restored manor house on Pydew Mountain in north Wales, is quite the opposite.  The hotel provided us tired, post-hike guests with a stay so comforting that, despite its looming size, felt more like we were at the home of an impossibly wealthy relative than a high-end hotel. Swathed by crackling fires, good, tasty food and amiable staff, this place is primed for a properly restful weekend.  Why stay at Bodysgallen Hall?  If you don’t just want a break from your day-to-day life but some proper respite from the 21st century, this is the place to stay. Bodysgallen Hall’s Main House feels a bit imposing as you approach it, but there’s something undeniably old-timey and welcoming about the place once you’ve stepped inside.  It brags all the traditional quirks that a proper country estate should, with comically low ground-floor ceilings, dark wood-panelled walls, heartily-stoked fires and marshmallow-like armchairs throughout the reception area and jumbled hallways, and much of it was built around 600 years ago. Though modern elements (speedy wifi and high-pressure showers) have seeped through, a weekend here still feels like you’ve dipped back into a different era.  What are the rooms like at Bodysgallen Hall? The Main House bedrooms could well remind you of a grandparent’s house, and I mean that as a compliment. The furnishings are

What’s the vibe?  Picture crisp white tablecloths, immaculately manicured waiters and an elevated, classy atmosphere, and you’ve pretty much got the opposite of Halisco. This is not the place for a formal evening dinner, but it most definitely is the place to take someone you’re trying to impress. Lip-smacking cocktails, inexplicably tasty Mexican-inspired small plates and an efficient, friendly, knowledgeable team of locals are what make this place so damn brilliant – and I bet my margarita that you’ll be telling your friends about it.  What are the prices like? The menu here follows a small-plates format – you’ll have snacks sitting around or just below £4, small plates, which range roughly from £8-£12, and of course the tacos, which tend to start at £9.50 for two. Lucky enough to swing by in the summer months? There could well be a salad and ceviche section, which last year started at £6. Mix it up, and don’t expect things to arrive in order.  What should I order? Halisco’s menu changes seasonally, but be sure to start your dinner with corn chips and guac, order the tenderstem broccoli (if it’s available) in whatever form it comes, and – even if you’re a meat eater – the oyster mushroom birria tacos. To wash it down, my go-tos are either a hibiscus margarita or a modelo chelada.  What’s worth visiting nearby? The newly opened Bar Halisco! Perched just over the road is Halisco’s brand-new sister venue, which opened just in time for National Margarita Day 2025. It’s got all

Despite being labelled by a cursive, neon pink signpost above its entrance, you could easily miss Viajante87 – it’s hidden in plain sight amidst the noise and fluorescence of Notting Hill Gate, and once you’re inside, feels miles away from all that too. The room is draped in moody layers and furnishings of rich teal with touches of gold, giving it a particularly luxe feel which is matched by the vibe of the service. Everything here is quite formal: we were met by a security guard who radioed a host to collect us at the bottom of the stairs, and, behind a heavy velvet curtain, were greeted with a cheery and unnervingly synchronised ‘hola!’ from the bartenders. That’s because, as is detailed on the cocktail menu, Viajante87 is based around the concept of ‘drinking like a local’, with your choices all inspired by flavours which hail from Central and South America. The three main sections on the menu are organised to mimic the stages of a journey: they’re branded as ‘comfortable’ (aperitif-like drinks), ‘curious’ (a little stronger) and ‘courageous’ (digestifs). If you’re feeling really courageous, you could even ignore the order in which they’ve designed the menu, though this lot clearly know what they’re doing.  Order this On the ‘be curious’ page of the menu, you’ll find the Pura Pache, a clean and fruity long drink which is a good light cocktail to kick things off. But if you’re a fan of bitter, negroni-esque flavours, don’t skip over the Blood Moon.  Time Out tip While this

Given it’s the second largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily), Sardinia brags quite a lot of coastline – 2,000 km, to be exact. Scenic beaches aren’t hard to come by here, but Delphina’s Valle dell’Erica occupies a particularly glorious spot on the island’s northern tip, on a plush green hillside where the coastal breeze ripples through the grass. Sounds lovely, right? On a clear day you can see across to Corsica, and when it’s hazy – as it was on my visit – you’re still surrounded by the ocean. Long story short, spectacular views are guaranteed.  Such vistas are best soaked in from the panoramic breakfast terrace in the main hotel building. Incidentally, the breakfast buffet is the only place where you’ll actually remember you’re in a resort. Valle Dell’Erica feels more like a small hilltop town: there are seven bars, seven restaurants, four pools, an enormous spa and a whopping 273 rooms. This sprawling complex houses two separate hotels: Hotel Erica (a slightly larger space with 148 rooms, catered to families) and Hotel La Licciola (a smaller, couple-oriented hotel, where 17 of the 125 rooms have access to an exclusive area and private pool). Rooms are cloistered in small blocks of three or four, each comfortably if plainly furnished, and are built with local granite and cork. From the resort’s beaches, the buildings appear to dissipate into the land – the brand calls this design ‘low visual impact’, a move to protect Sardinia’s coastline from the threat of towe

Given it’s the second largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily), Sardinia brags quite a lot of coastline – 2,000 km, to be exact. Scenic beaches aren’t hard to come by here, but Delphina’s Valle dell’Erica occupies a particularly glorious spot on the island’s northern tip, on a plush green hillside where the coastal breeze ripples through the grass. Sounds lovely, right? On a clear day you can see across to Corsica, and when it’s hazy – as it was on my visit – you’re still surrounded by the ocean. Long story short, spectacular views are guaranteed.  Such vistas are best soaked in from the panoramic breakfast terrace in the main hotel building. Incidentally, the breakfast buffet is the only place where you’ll actually remember you’re in a resort. Valle Dell’Erica feels more like a small hilltop town: there are seven bars, seven restaurants, four pools, an enormous spa and a whopping 273 rooms. This sprawling complex houses two separate hotels: Hotel Erica (a slightly larger space with 148 rooms, catered to families) and Hotel La Licciola (a smaller, couple-oriented hotel, where 17 of the 125 rooms have access to an exclusive area and private pool). Rooms are cloistered in small blocks of three or four, each comfortably if plainly furnished, and are built with local granite and cork. From the resort’s beaches, the buildings appear to dissipate into the land – the brand calls this design ‘low visual impact’, a move to protect Sardinia’s coastline from the threat of towe

Landing in Keflavik on a frosty 2C afternoon is a bit of a shock to the system compared to the balmy October temperatures of the UK, but once we start winding through the snow-dusted, ash-coloured peaks that loom moodily over Iceland’s coast, the biting cold feels appropriate.  Thankfully, the nippy feeling doesn’t last long. ION’s collection of hotels includes four properties – ION City and Hotel Von (starting rates are €430 and €175 respectively) where we stay in Reykjavik, Hotel Budir (from €277), our first stop nestled cosily between the mountains and the lapping shore of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and ION Adventure (€565) which is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2024. Each embody the Nordic concept of ‘hygge’, that feeling of convivial cosiness that you can only really experience in such perishingly cold places.  All are intrinsically Icelandic, but ION Adventure is the true show-stopper. A sleek glass box emerging from the moss-laden Mount Hengill, the hotel is a bold contrast to the tumbling volcanic landscape around it. But that landscape is still incorporated into the design, with furniture made from locally-sheered wool and actual lava. Sustainability is at the heart of these designs – even the sinks are made from recycled tires – and much of the interior is crafted by Icelandic architects. The hallway leading to the brand-new wing of 23 rooms (where we stayed) features bare concrete walls which will not be painted – paint is bad for the environment, guys – an

You’d be forgiven for feeling a little intimidated upon approaching Eastwell Manor. Its stern, neo-Elizabethan stone façade is dotted with boxy windows which appear as if they allow little light, and reaching reception involves dragging your luggage through an eerily still, imposing courtyard. But the vibe’s pretty different inside.  Through the comically large, dark-wood doors, the formality of the building does match the tone of the service, but we were warmly greeted by wafts from the restaurant, the excited buzz of guests from a wedding party and formally dressed but amicable team members. And that’s what’s unexpected about this place – how homely a massive country estate (particularly one with a tennis court, a hawking centre and beehives) can feel as soon as you arrive.  Our room, in the cottage buildings in the west corner of the grounds, was one designated for people on a spa break (it’s only a two-minute walk from the spa building) and other guests were flitting between the two buildings in just their dressing gowns, despite the October chill. The spa itself, the facilities of which include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room on the ground floor, as well as a restaurant, plus treatment and ‘relaxation’ rooms upstairs, does all the things a good spa should do, but is perhaps not quite matched to the size of the hotel – we arrived mid-afternoon to cop a poolside seat but were left with only one available spot to plonk ourselves. But the hotel doesn’t just of

Entering our park-view room on the ninth floor of the Athenaeum, our jaws dropped not because of the suite itself, but because it immediately lived up to its name: the south-facing hotel rooms offer tremendous views of the lush treetops of Green Park, and if you’re lucky enough to stay in on one of the top floors (nine is the highest), it’s pretty splendid. What’s more, the hotel has been designed to incorporate the park’s proximity: the compact, comfortable rooms and ground-floor reception feature floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of mirrors to complement and exaggerate the nearby greenery. Entering the hotel feels almost like you’re stepping inside an opulent conservatory.  Throughout the hotel there are nods to grand decor, but it’s not overdone. Twinkly light fixtures, velvet Chesterfield headboards and touches of gold are not going to be to everyone’s taste, but they feature in the light-flooded rooms and add glamour to mostly white walls and bedding – this hotel is in Mayfair, after all.  That emphasis on elegance is also reflected in the kind of service you get at the Athenaeum. Front of house members, at the reception during check-in and in the restaurant, were congenial, warm, but the atmosphere here is formal: there’s no small talk, no chit-chat during breakfast service – everything feels very proper.  While the surrounding neighbourhood boasts plenty of bougie places to eat, the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant is a worthy alternative, particularly for afternoon t

With interiors that look like they probably haven’t been updated since the place opened in 1997, and prices that also feel like they’re stuck in the past, a trip to locally loved Bayswater restaurant The Bengal feels like stepping back in time. The dated decor serves to create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere in which to enjoy generous portions of classic curry house fare. The chef’s special bhunas and jalfrezis – both traditional Bengali dishes – stand out on a large menu of traditional Indian and Bangladeshi curries. Whether you’re sitting in or ordering a takeaway, this is a reliable option for inexpensive, flavoursome dinner. 

Luxury train rides are the epitome of old-fashioned glamour, but they’re far from a thing of the past. From a five-hour super-luxe train in southern Vietnam to this whopper 80-day luxury journey, there’s plenty of choice no matter where you are in the world.  In fact, we’ve compiled a roundup of our favourite routes right here. And while they’re all pretty dazzling, few are quite as iconic as the Orient Express.  The Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express, now owned by Belmond, has unveiled a brand-new, uber-opulent route, all the way from Paris to Tuscany.  📍 RECOMMENDED: Discover the best winter train routes in Europe Departing from Paris’s Gare d’Austerlitz station, the service journeys through France’s lush countryside before arriving in Florence the following afternoon.  There are three room options: according to Condé Nast Traveler, historic cabins transform from banquette seating into sleeping quarters at night, suites come with double beds and en suites, and Grand Suites brag marble-clad bathrooms, towering windows, red velvet furnishings and a butler.  All guests will be greeted with pastries, tea and champagne, and treated to dinner by renowned chef Jean Imbert, who has designed an elegant menu featuring French and Italian influences. There’ll be cocktails and live piano music in Bar Car 3674 in the evening, and breakfast will be served to travellers in their cabins – but that’s far from the end of the journey.  After a transfer to and guided tour of the Tuscan mediaeval to

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:26654764-50b8-4594-893e-df18da220579-7" data-testid="conversation-turn-16" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:26654764-50b8-4594-893e-df18da220579-14" data-testid="conversation-turn-30" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:26654764-50b8-4594-893e-df18da220579-16" data-testid="conversation-turn-34" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> Chaque hiver, quand le thermomètre parisien flirte avec les 3 °C et que le ciel reste désespérément gris, une partie des habitants de la capitale file vers le sud en quête de vitamine D. Un réflexe bien parisien : fuir la grisaille dès que possible, quitte à travailler à distance entre deux baignades. Et ils ont de quoi faire : si une grande partie de l’hémisphère nord connaîtra des tempé

À l’arrivée de l’hiver, nombreux sont ceux qui redoutent les températures en chute libre et les journées pluvieuses. Heureusement, à l’approche de décembre, les places européennes s’apprêtent à retrouver leur effervescence hivernale. Les marchés de Noël, nés dans l’Allemagne médiévale, se sont imposés comme une institution à travers le continent, entre artisanat, gastronomie et folklore local. Pour sa sélection 2025, Time Out dresse la liste des vingt marchés de Noël les plus remarquables d’Europe, des ruelles pavées de Bruges aux allées illuminées d’Édimbourg, en passant par les villages alsaciens et les capitales nordiques. En tête du classement, Nuremberg s’impose une nouvelle fois comme la référence. Du 28 novembre au 24 décembre, la Hauptmarkt se transforme en décor de théâtre : échoppes en bois, guirlandes suspendues, effluves de bratwurst et de vin chaud. Une atmosphère familiale le jour, plus festive la nuit, quand les visiteurs troquent la photo souvenir contre un mug fumant de glühwein ou une bière locale au goût de fumée. Manchester arrive en deuxième position, saluée pour la vitalité de son centre-ville et l’ambiance bon enfant de ses allées décorées, un choix qui confirme le renouveau touristique de la métropole britannique. Enfin, Paris complète le podium. La capitale française n’a pas besoin de Noël pour briller, mais la saison des fêtes lui sied particulièrement. Une douzaine de marchés s’y déploient chaque hiver, du parvis de Notre-Dame aux abords de la Défen

A medida que 2025 llega poco a poco a su fin, probablemente empieces a pensar no solo en todos los lugares increíbles que has tachado de tu lista este año, sino también en los destinos que podrías visitar en 2026. Si buscas nuevas ideas, Lonely Planet acaba de publicar su lista de los mejores lugares para viajar, y junto a destinos ya populares como Ciudad de México, Botsuana o Cerdeña, también propone opciones más inesperadas, entre las que se cuela España. África, Irlanda y... un lugar mágico en el sur de España En el primer puesto encontramos Reunión: un departamento francés en el océano Índico (a unos 230 km de Mauricio), descrito por Lonely Planet como el mejor lugar "para descubrir un patrimonio natural y multicultural único". Su población, diversa y plural, se refleja también en su paisaje natural, con 400 microclimas distintos, una abundante biodiversidad y uno de los volcanes más activos del planeta.   Cádiz. Shutterstock   Pero no es el único destino de la lista donde brilla la naturaleza: ¿por qué no considerar Tipperary? Puede que quede lejos, pero este condado rural irlandés es perfecto para una aventura en plena naturaleza. El valle de Glen of Aherlow es un sitio majestuoso para recorrer a pie o a caballo, y la zona está llena de historia (con lugares como la Roca de Cashel o el Castillo de Cahir) y buena comida (solo el famoso queso azul de Cashel ya merece el viaje). Y la guinda del pastel, España y, en concreto, la antigua ciudad portuaria española de Cádiz

As 2025 gradually draws to a close, you’re probably going to not only start thinking about all the cool places you ticked off the bucket list this year, but also about what lies ahead for your travel plans in 2026, right? Well, if you need some fresh contenders, Lonely Planet has just published its roundup of the best places to travel, and along with some already-popular destinations like Mexico City, Botswana and Sardinia, there are some out-of-the-box suggestions on the agenda, too.  First up, Réunion, a French Department in the Indian Ocean (which is around 230km from Mauritius), described by Lonely Planet as the best place ‘for delving into a unique natural and multicultural heritage’.  Generations of migration has meant today, a wonderfully diverse population and spectrum of faiths call the island home, and that variety is mirrored in its natural landscape, which is home to 400 different microclimates, a bounty of species and one of the world’s most active volcanoes.  Photograph: Shutterstock Recommended: The best travel destinations for 2026, according to National Geographic.  However, it’s not the only destination on this with nature in buckets – why not consider Tipperary? Sure, it might be a long way (get it?!) but the rural Irish county is primed for remote adventure. The Glen of Aherlow is a majestic valley where you can hike or horseback-ride your way around, and there’s lots of historical sites to absorb (like the Rock of Cashel or Cahir Castle) and food to be

For most of us, choosing an airline to fly with will come down to the basics: cost and timing. But if you’re more of a choosy traveller, it’s handy to know which ones can be hit and miss when it comes to punctuality and service, and which ones are operational award-winners.  That’s where the World Travel Awards come in. The ‘Oscars of Tourism’ just announced a shedload of European winners at its 32nd annual ceremony held in Sardinia, and German airline Lufthansa was crowned Europe’s leading airline for 2025. Not only that, but it also cinched the prize as the best economy class airline and the best airline brand. Recommended: These are apparently Europe’s worst airports for delays due to the new entry-exit system (EES).  Lufthansa crowned as the best airline and best economy class in Europe Lufthansa won the coveted title in 2024 – as well as 11 other years since the awards launched back in the early ‘90s. It operates in more than 200 places, making it the second-largest airline in Europe (after Ryanair). Elsewhere, Swiss International Airlines was crowned the winner in both the business class and first class categories. Find the full list of winners on the World Travel Awards website, and have a look at the very best European airlines below.  These are Europe’s 10 best airlines in 2025 Air France British Airways Iberia Icelandair KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Lufthansa SAS Scandinavian Airlines Swiss International Air Lines TAP Air Portugal Turkish Airlines Did you see that th

The most wonderful time of year is fast approaching, guys. And we don’t mean Christmas – we’re talking about the announcement of the winners for the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards.  While the ceremony to crown this year’s champions isn’t taking place until December 9, a roundup of all the finalists has landed, and it’s a surefire way to brighten up your drizzly October morning. Scroll on for our favourite snaps, and stay tuned for the announcement of 2025’s winners in a few weeks’ time.  Photograph: Andrew Mortimer / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Diana Rebman / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Henry Szwinto / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Erkko Badermann / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Meline Ellwanger / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Lars Beygang / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Miles Astray / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Ralph Robinson / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Stefan Cruysberghs / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Photograph: Mark Meth-Cohn / Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2025 Need another hit of joy? Check out last year’s winners in our roundup.  Did you see that scaffolding has finally been removed from this iconic European attraction after 20 years? Plus: The winning shots from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025 – in pictures.  Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel

We’re as shocked as you are that Christmas is on the horizon once again, but instead of clinging to the ever-shorter light evenings and avoiding pulling out your winter coat for as long as possible, let’s just welcome it with open arms. After all, it’s actually quite nice when our cities get all festive. The smell of mulled wine drifting from pubs. Shopping streets adorned with sparkly lights. And, of course, the merriest place of all: the Christmas Market. These pop-up festive fairs originated in medieval Germany – and so, unsurprisingly, you’ll find the best and most traditional examples of them in Europe. To help you decide exactly which one to visit this season, Time Out has just published a freshly curated list of the very best European Christmas markets for 2025. Photograph: Shutterstock The 20-strong roundup features pretty piazzas from across the continent, including festive classics like Bruges, Colmar and Edinburgh. Claiming this year’s number one position is (Christmassy drum roll, please...) Nuremberg! Opening on November 28 and running until Christmas Eve, the city’s Hauptmarkt will be filled to the brim with twinkly lights, quaint wooden stalls and, of course, wafts of bratwurst.  What’s the vibe like? Well, according to our roundup, ‘families pitch up to pose for photos with golden-haired ‘angels’ who work the crowds, and ‘after hours, the grown-ups prop up the bar with take-home mugs of glühwein and the local smoked beer.’ Sounds pretty merry, doesn’t it? Ma

¿Qué hace que una ciudad valga la pena para vivir? ¿El transporte público, las zonas verdes, la escena artística o la vida nocturna? ¿Su belleza, el sentimiento de comunidad o la diversidad e inclusión que promueve? Diríamos que todos estos factores son clave, pero hay uno que los engloba a todos: nuestra felicidad. Por este motivo, desde Time Out hemos preguntado la opinión de 18.500 personas que viven en ciudades de todo el mundo para descubrir qué es lo que las hace felices en el lugar donde viven. Más concretamente, se les pidió que respondieran a afirmaciones como: “Me siento más feliz en mi ciudad que en otros lugares donde he vivido”, “Encuentro alegría en las experiencias cotidianas que me ofrece mi ciudad”, “El nivel de felicidad en mi ciudad ha aumentado recientemente” y, en general: “Mi ciudad me hace feliz”. Foto: Shutterstock A partir de sus respuestas, hemos elaborado una lista de las ciudades más felices del mundo, así como un resumen de las ciudades europeas donde los locales tienen más probabilidades de sonreír de oreja a oreja. Y quien lidera el ranking –y ocupando la novena posición a escala mundial– es Sevilla. ¿Por qué? Pues bien, un 86% de los sevillanos encuestados han dicho que encuentran alegría en el día a día y que sus vecinos parecen positivos, mientras que un 74% estaban de acuerdo en que el nivel de felicidad en la ciudad había aumentado últimamente. Foto: Shutterstock En total, un impresionante 91% de los locales han afirmado que su ciudad l

Què fa que una ciutat valgui la pena per viure-hi? El transport públic, les zones verdes, l’escena artística o la vida nocturna? La seva bellesa, el sentiment de comunitat o la diversitat i inclusió que promou? Diríem que tots aquests factors són clau, però n’hi ha un que els engloba tots: la nostra felicitat. Per aquest motiu, des de Time Out hem preguntat l’opinió de 18.500 persones que viuen en ciutats d’arreu del món per descobrir què és el que les fa felices al lloc on viuen. Més concretament, se’ls va demanar que responguessin a afirmacions com: “Em sento més feliç a la meva ciutat que en altres llocs on he viscut”, “Trobo alegria en les experiències quotidianes que m’ofereix la meva ciutat”, “El nivell de felicitat a la meva ciutat ha augmentat recentment” i, en general: “La meva ciutat em fa feliç”. Foto: Shutterstock A partir de les seves respostes, hem elaborat una llista de les ciutats més felices del món, així com un resum de les ciutats europees on els locals tenen més probabilitats de somriure d’orella a orella.  I qui lidera el rànquing –i ocupant la novena posició a escala mundial– és Sevilla. Per què? Doncs bé, un 86% dels sevillans enquestats van dir que trobaven alegria en el dia a dia i que els seus veïns semblaven positius, i un 74% estaven d’acord que el nivell de felicitat a la ciutat havia augmentat últimament. Foto: Shutterstock En total, un impressionant 91% dels locals van afirmar que la seva ciutat els feia feliços, però Sevilla no és l’únic ll

O que faz com que uma cidade valha a pena ser vivida? Serão os transportes, os espaços verdes, a cena artística ou a vida nocturna? A sua beleza, o sentido de comunidade ou a diversidade e inclusão que promove? Poder-se-ia argumentar que todos esses factores são cruciais, mas há um acima de todos os outros – a nossa felicidade. Poderíamos apostar que uma cidade feliz é, provavelmente, uma cidade excelente – e foi por isso que a Time Out pediu a 18.500 habitantes de várias cidades que partilhassem o que, nos lugares onde vivem, lhes traz maior alegria. Mais concretamente, foi-lhes pedido que respondessem a afirmações como: “Sinto-me mais feliz na minha cidade do que noutros lugares onde vivi”, “As pessoas na minha cidade parecem positivas”, “Encontro alegria nas experiências quotidianas que a minha cidade oferece”, “A sensação de felicidade na minha cidade tem aumentado recentemente”, e, no geral, “A minha cidade torna-me feliz”. Com base nas respostas, organizámos uma lista das cidades mais felizes do mundo, bem como um resumo dos centros urbanos europeus onde os residentes são mais propensos a sorrir de orelha a orelha. E a cidade que lidera este ranking (ocupando o nono lugar na lista mundial) é – pausa dramática – Sevilha! Sevilha lidera a felicidade no continente Porquê? Bem, 86% dos habitantes inquiridos afirmaram encontrar alegria no quotidiano e sentir que os seus vizinhos são pessoas positivas, enquanto 74% reconheceram que o sentimento de felicidade tem crescido rece

Digital nomadism, while it’s undoubtedly exploded since 2020, has actually existed as a concept since back in the 1990s. Though there’s some speculation about whether the ‘work from anywhere’ dream is really the idyllic new life lots of us thought, it’s still an increasingly popular lifestyle choice and, in 2025, it’s going nowhere.  If packing up your life to work remotely abroad appeals to you, you’ll want to know which countries offer the best experience for digital nomads – and this brand-new report from Global Citizen Solutions is here to give you the answers you need.  The report assessed indicators across six different categories – these include citizenship and mobility (such as the pathway to citizenship), economics (like the cost of living), and tech and innovation (such as internet speed) – and produced a top-10 list of the best countries for digital nomads to move to this year.  Spain named the world’s best destination for digital nomads  Topping the list was Spain, which gained an impressive overall score of 99.67, largely thanks to high scores in citizenship and mobility and tech and innovation, but there’s a whole load more to life there than what these stats demonstrate.  Photograph: Shutterstock Firstly, the weather – Spain is blessed with around 300 days of sun per year (it scored 91.53 in the quality of life index, which factors in climate), and stretches of its southern coasts, like the Costa del Sol, bask in up to 320!  It also falls comfortably within t