Most Luxurious Destinations for a Weekend in Europe

The diverse continent of Europe is a place of ancient cities, diverse cuisine and wines, and phenomenal accommodation opportunities. When you are seeking a luxurious vacation, you can trust Europe to deliver an exceptional experience suitable for a special occasion.

These are the five most luxurious destinations for a weekend (or longer) in Europe.

Italy

Romantic Italy with its rich history, gourmet dining scene, fashionable cities, and swanky islands speaks of luxury and experiences to treasure forever. Foodies should head straight to Tuscany for a weekend of food, wine, and prestigious art galleries. Travelers who love sunshine and seafood can head south to the Amalfi Coast and Bay of Naples. The Isle of Capri wows with its grottos and picturesque plazas where you can linger over aperitifs. Charter a yacht for a premier experience.

France

Choose between a weekend touring the landmarks in Paris or retreating to the glorious French countryside for a sophisticated yet rustic experience. It goes without saying that the wine regions of Burgundy and Provence are stellar destinations for a luxury stay. Check yourself into a chateau and spend days discovering your favorite vintages and cafès. Meanwhile, the South of France province dazzles with its historic seaside towns, lavender fields, and grand palaces.

Croatia

Croatia is one of the more affordable destinations in Europe but that doesn’t mean the Balkan nation isn’t luxurious. Quite the opposite! Luxury experiences in Croatia range from chartering a private yacht to spending a night dining at the chef’s table in a medieval castle or at a traditional farm with a view that you’ll never forget. Croatian cuisine is phenomenal and you will struggle to find it outside the country. Meanwhile, this beautiful nation is accountable for Zinfandel and you simply must sample it at the source in the region of Istria.

United Kingdom

London is, naturally, the leading destination for luxurious stays in the United Kingdom. You can live like royalty in a boutique hotel, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and splash out on theater tickets in the historic West End. But if the chance arises, you can also explore the beautiful green countryside of this tiny country. Beautiful spa resorts and converted farmhouses stud the rolling hills and valleys of the Cotswolds while the Scottish Highlands are awash with sumptuous mansion houses and unforgettable hospitality.

Seven Rivers Journey

Why limit yourself to one destination when Europe offers boundless possibilities to cross multiple borders? One of the most luxurious methods of travel in Europe is a river cruise.

For those not constrained to a weekend or short stay, the recently announced 45-day Seven Rivers Cruise takes you through France, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. You’ll encounter fairytale castles, photographic windmills, cobblestone villages, and exquisite vineyards from the comfort of a deluxe vessel. The cruise includes exclusive excursions that you cannot encounter on other cruises of these seven waterways.

Find out more about the Seven Rivers Journey with my complimentary presentation in partnership with AmaWaterways. Remember to sign up for my Legendary Danube River Cruise with AmaWaterways for even more insights into European river cruises.