Here are the best long weekend getaway ideas from the GCC over the warmer months
Milan, Italy
Milan, Italy
Milan is one of the best city getaways for a long weekend break. The Quadrilatero della Moda, comprising the iconic Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga, is a must-visit for iconic fashion houses and flagship boutiques. Milan also has a rich cultural landscape. A key landmark is the Duomo di Milano, with its intricate Gothic architecture. Art lovers will also appreciate the opportunity to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie.
The Navigli district, with its historic canals, remains a hotspot for high-end dining, offering a blend of traditional Italian cuisine and contemporary culinary experiences. The area’s nightlife adds further vibrancy, creating an engaging social scene. For visitors seeking relaxation amidst urban exploration, Milan’s green spaces, such as Parco Sempione, provide a stylish retreat. This central park offers a combination of manicured gardens, historic structures, and open lawns for those wishing to unwind in a refined setting.
London, UK
The Other House South Kensington
London is the perfect city break in June, when the weather starts to improve. The city is home to iconic department stores from Harrods to Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge. Meanwhile, Sloane Street has everything from Chanel to Louis Vuitton. For travellers seeking an exceptional place to stay, The Other House South Kensington offers luxury hospitality with the seclusion of a private residence. Unlike a traditional hotel, this ‘Residents Club’ combines the comfort and privacy of apartment-style living with the service and sophistication of a five-star property. Each beautifully appointed Club Flat offers modern amenities and British-inspired interiors.
For families and groups, expansive apartments with up to five bedrooms and exclusive-use courtyards provide the perfect base to celebrate Eid together in privacy and style. While in the city, be sure to make time for Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s. Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, step into the hotel’s stylish Foyer & Reading Room, a haven of art deco grandeur adorned with plush seating and the gentle clink of fine bone china. As the attentive staff welcome you, the cares of the world melt away into the gentle rhythm of the afternoon.
Istanbul, Turkey
The popular Turkish city of Istanbul is home to some iconic properties. There’s Raffles Istanbul, situated within the Zorlu Centre, which comes with panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait. Elsewhere, the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the historic district, combining neoclassical architecture with modern amenities. Music aficionados might want to consider extending their stay, as the Istanbul Music Festival is running from the 11th to the 26th of June, with a series of performances under the theme “Beyond Borders.” For luxury shopping, Istanbul offers a range of options. The Zorlu Centre a stone’s throw from Raffles Istanbul, houses an array of high-end fashion brands, catering to discerning shoppers. Meanwhile, the city’s Grand Bazaar, with its historical significance, offers a unique experience with over 3,000 shops selling a variety of goods.
Athens Greece
Athens offers an exceptional blend of ancient heritage and contemporary luxury for a long weekend city break. There are plenty of memorable properties in the Greek capital, such as the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne, a 5-star landmark overlooking the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, renowned for its rooftop dining and world-class spa. Alternatively, the Four Seasons Astir Palace on the Athenian Riviera offers a serene seaside retreat with private beaches and a luxurious spa. The city is a great place for foodies, too. Delta, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, offers innovative cuisine inspired by the Greek landscape, while CTC Urban Gastronomy provides an 11-course blind tasting menu that surprises and delights. The city is rich with cultural heritage. Explore the Acropolis and Parthenon, then visit the Acropolis Museum to delve deeper into ancient Greek history. While in the city, Luisa World in Kolonaki is worth a visit, offering a mix of unique one-of-a-kind designers from Greek and international houses.
