Summer’s over and that means one thing… the Christmas countdown is so on. This month’s Just Landed series introduces brand-new stays in your fave festive European cities. With Christmas market season nearly upon us, there’s no time like the present to plan your winter city break. In the next month, places like Amsterdam, Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Krakow, Bucharest and Prague will all be looking fine, with their twinkling lights and traditional stalls.
So, meet the top picks from October’s new arrivals…
Krakow
Live like a royal at Zinar Castle Krakow. This hotel is in a beautiful part of Krakow in Poland, overlooking the city and its surrounding mountain region from a quiet hilltop. It’s taken over a hundred-year-old villa that dates back to World War II and is now incredibly chic, with white walls, floor-to-ceiling drapes and minimalist furniture. You’re also a 10-minute taxi ride into the old town for the buzz of the city and some of Europe’s cheapest Christmas markets. Head into town for all the best food and festive shopping, then explore the gorgeous trails of Forest Wolski – steps from where you’re staying. It’s giving winter wonderland.
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Cologne
Cologne is up there with some of the best Christmas markets in Germany and Ruby Ella Hotel & Bar is in the perfect spot for a mooch. You’re about a 30-minute walk to where the stalls are all set up in Heumarkt Square, which takes you through the newer side of town so you can soak up all the sights. You can also get there by metro or cycle. German street food means bratwursts, currywursts and plenty of gluhwein to keep you warm in the winter. Plus, this hotel’s all set with rainforest showers and a cosy bar to head back for in the evenings. The rooms are also individually designed, so you’ll get a nice surprise when you step in and see – it’s just like Christmas.
Stuttgart
Think boutique meets modern meets designer chic. Ruby Hanna Hotel Stuttgart is right in the centre of Stuttgart – less than a 10-minute walk to Marktplatz for all your festive fun. The bar here is colourful and cosy with velvet sofas, copper tones and dim lighting that makes it perfect for a bev before dinner. Plus, there are workspaces if you’re lacking on annual leave before the New Year, and there’s a breakfast room so you can fuel up for the day. Stuttgart might not be the first German city you think of, but this one loves a festival. There are lots of foodie events throughout the year, as well as an art gallery complete with the works of Matisse, Picasso and Dali.
Frankfurt
If you want to see your city from the roof, Nhow Frankfurt has a stunning rooftop bar with outdoor seating and serves up cocktails with a view well into the evening. The hotel sits in the ONE by CA Immo skyscraper in Frankfurt’s financial district and European Quarter, so you can take a half-an-hour walk through the city, or it only takes 15 minutes on the U-Bahn to reach the main market strip. Stalls stretch all along the Zeil, which is a big shopping spot. Or, head closer to the river to Romerberg and there’s even more to explore. Once you’ve got your festive fix, Nhow’s bar and restaurants await, or you can even book in for a massage.
Bucharest
Lido By Phoenicia is right by some of Bucharest’s top attractions, like the Royal Palace Square and Athénée Palace. You’re about a 30-minute walk or bus to Constitution Square – or a 15-minute taxi – where Romania’s famous markets are at. If you’re hot-dogged out from lunch, this hotel has its own brasserie which serves up à la carte meals. There’s also a gym and massages you can book, and the bar is super stylish. The whole place feels quite boutiquey and boujie – perfect for a treat-yourself trip to start the season.
Like the sound of one of these, or want to check out our full range? Head to our Just Landed deals page for more new arrivals.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: Lily Owen
Last updated: 29/10/2024
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