May is HERE, which means summer’s just landed and so have our new arrivals 
You’ve already seen our major announcement about our collab with Ryanair, and now it’s time to reveal the brand-new destinations we’ve unlocked as a result 
But we’re not going to spill all the tea straight away… So, get ready to meet the first batch of many fresh places. This month, it’s all about three of Europe’s up-and-coming destinations – Gdansk, Vilnius and the Italian Riviera…
Gdansk, Poland
You’ve heard of Krakow… Enter: Gdansk, a lesser-known city on Poland‘s north coast. This is a spot to tick off STAT if you love a city that flies under the radar. We’re talking waterfront scenery, grand architecture and all the historic sights. Spend your days wandering through the charming old town, grabbing coffee at cosy cafés and checking out the city’s top throwbacks. Hit up Westerplatte to learn about the start of WWII or stop by the Gdansk Shipyard for all the deets on Poland’s maritime past. Other must-see sights include the Wisłoujście Fortress and the Gdansk Astronomical Clock. And if you’re after the best views, make your way to Gradowa Hill. Foodies are in for a treat, with hearty Polish classics like hot dogs and filled dumplings making regular appearances at street food stalls. Gdansk’s got a serious nightlife scene, too, especially a strong rep for quirky bars. Try local craft beers at Flisak ’76, drink in an old library at Jozef K Café or play arcade games at Pixel.
Where to stay…
- Almond Business and Spa – this contemporary pick’s sitting pretty on the industrial-chic waterfront. The marina and city centre’s right there, but you’ve also got some sweet facilities to make the most of back at the hotel. The wellness centre’s on standby for spa treatments, sauna sessions and swims in the freshwater pool. There’s a restaurant and bar here, too.
- Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto – it’s all about modern luxe vibes at this stay, from its sleek looks to the techy touches, like an iPad in every room. There’s a spa area and restaurant for some downtime, but you’re also in the middle of Granary Island, so you’re steps from the old town and the marina.
- Q Hotel Grand Cru – this boutique babe loves historic charm and waterfront views. It’s sitting pretty next to the river, super close to top sights like St Mary’s Basilica and Dluga Street. With so much nearby, the hotel’s facilities are stripped back, but there’s the gourmet Grand Cru Restaurant that serves up fine-dining feels.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is one of Europe’s most underrated cities, so get on the hype before everyone else does. Packed with vintage shops, cute cafés and streets made for socials, the Lithuanian capital is pure city break material. Check out the Vilnius Museum of Illusion, climb Gediminas Castle Tower and wander through the artsy Uzupis district – a mini municipality within the city. There are also plenty of lush parks and green spaces for nature lovers – hike up Three Crosses Hill for epic views across the city. The nightlife here is next level, too. There are your classic craft beer and cocktail spots, as well as some more rogue picks like Who Hit John and a prison chapel that’s now a rave venue in Lukiskes Prison.
Where to stay…
- Calvary Hotel and Restaurant – this revamped 19th-century hotel has that sweet combo of vintage feels and contemporary comfort – think vintage city maps on the wall next to smart TVs. You’re only a 15-minute walk from sights like Europa Tower, plus, there’s a gym, sauna and restaurant here, too.
- NARUTIS Hotel – in the old town, Narutis mixes luxe looks and historic charm. You’ll be staying steps away from Vilnius Cathedral and Gediminas Tower, so getting out and about is a breeze. This five-star hotel also has a restaurant and a spa with a hot tub and sauna, ideal for some chill time after a day out and about.
- Novotel Vilnius Centre – steps from Old Town, Cathedral Square and lots of cute cafés and bars. The hotel itself’s super sleek and comfy, with spacious rooms, a fitness centre and a sauna for resting up after a day out and about.
Genoa, the Italian Riviera
This is la dolce vita at its best. We’re talking colourful buildings, authentic pizzerias and old-world charm for days – it’s called the ‘Amalfi Coast of the North’ for a reason. Everyone loves Italy, so tourists come with the territory. But, the Italian Riviera has plenty of towns with a more local, undiscovered energy, too. Genoa’s got all the culture minus the crowds – check out its beaut cathedral or the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno. The food and drink scene is also pretty low-key – think classic trattorias, stripped-back dive bars and craft ale places. This part of Italy is the birthplace of some of your fave foods, including pesto – warning: after this trip, you’ll only be forking out for the good stuff…
Beach days are a big part of trips here, too. There’s a sweet swimming spot in Boccadasse, which is only a 15-minute drive away. The cute fishing village has a small, pebble sweep, family-run restaurants and a gelateria that’s been going strong for almost a century. If you fancy switching up the vibe, head over to Paraggi Beach in Portofino. The town started as a tiny fishing hub, but these days it’s a fave for celebs and VIPs. It’s all charming streets, cliffside scenery and has a boujie aesthetic that would make the French Riviera jel. When the sun sets, stick around for some local vino at a chic wine bar or dance ‘til the AM at an exclusive club like Covo Di Nord-Est.
Where to stay…
- Vis a Vis – A stylish four-star pick perched above Sestri Levante, with Insta-ready views of the Bay of Silence and the Ligurian Sea. There’s a rooftop pool and bar that’s perf for sunset spritzes, plus a Roman-style spa for max relaxation after a beach day.
- NH Collection Genova Marina – this hotel, right on the waterfront in Genoa’s Old Port, was designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano. There’s a seafood restaurant where you can eat the catch of the day straight from the harbour.
- Hotel Miramare & Spa – this five-star stay in Santa Margherita Ligure has major sea views. Other features you’ll love include the saltwater pool, lush tropical gardens and the wellness centre with beauty treatments and massages.
Stay in the loop about the latest arrivals on our New to First Choice page.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: Daisy Colley (she/her)
Last updated: 01/05/2025
You may also like
Just Landed)
)
)
)
)