4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

02 September 2026

Europe is packed with iconic destinations, but some of its most rewarding holidays begin just beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. If you've already ticked off the big-name cities or simply fancy somewhere that feels a little different, there are plenty of places offering beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and memorable food without the queues. From medieval towns on the Adriatic coast to volcanic islands in the Atlantic, these lesser-known corners of Europe prove that sometimes the best trips are the ones you weren't expecting.

4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

Kotor, Montenegro: Adriatic charm without the crowds

While many travellers head straight for Dubrovnik, neighbouring Kotor offers a similar blend of ancient streets and spectacular coastal scenery with a more laid-back atmosphere. Sitting at the edge of the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is enclosed by impressive Venetian walls that climb steeply into the mountains above. Wander through St Tryphon's Cathedral, stop for a coffee in one of the stone-paved squares, or tackle the climb to San Giovanni Fortress for sweeping views across the fjord-like bay. Beyond the Old Town, nearby villages such as Perast offer waterfront restaurants and easy boat trips to the tiny island church of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Girona, Spain: A different side to Catalonia

Barcelona may attract the headlines, but Girona offers a slower pace while still packing plenty into a compact city break. Its colourful houses line the River Onyar, while the beautifully preserved medieval quarter is filled with narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, and independent cafés. Climb the city walls for panoramic views, visit the striking Girona Cathedral, or follow in the footsteps of Game of Thrones through streets that doubled as King's Landing and Braavos. Food lovers are equally well looked after, with bustling food markets, traditional Catalan restaurants, and the world-renowned El Celler de Can Roca all calling the city home.

São Miguel, Azores: Portugal's wild Atlantic escape

Often overlooked in favour of mainland Portugal or Madeira, São Miguel is an island shaped by volcanic landscapes and Atlantic weather. The twin lakes of Sete Cidades, one blue and one green, sit inside an enormous volcanic crater, while Furnas is known for its steaming hot springs and traditional cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using geothermal heat. Along the coast, natural swimming pools carved into black volcanic rock offer a refreshing alternative to sandy beaches, and whale and dolphin watching excursions regularly head out from Ponta Delgada. It's an excellent choice for travellers who enjoy dramatic scenery alongside relaxed towns and excellent local food.

Ljubljana, Slovenia: One of Europe's most underrated capitals

Compact, easy to explore, and full of character, Ljubljana often surprises first-time visitors. The emerald-green Ljubljanica River winds through the city centre, crossed by landmarks including the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge, while Ljubljana Castle overlooks the rooftops from its hilltop position. Open-air markets fill Vodnik Square, riverside cafés spill onto pedestrian streets, and Tivoli Park provides plenty of green space just minutes from the Old Town. It's also perfectly placed for day trips to Lake Bled, the dramatic Vintgar Gorge, or the underground world of Postojna Cave, making it an ideal base for seeing more of Slovenia without constantly changing hotels.

To book your next underrated European adventure, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

7 cool-cations for an unforgettable autumn escape

02 September 2026

Summer might get most of the attention, but autumn can be one of the most rewarding times of year to travel. Cooler temperatures make days outdoors more comfortable, landscapes shift into rich seasonal colours, and many destinations settle into a quieter rhythm once the peak summer crowds have gone. That’s where the ‘cool-cation’ comes in. Instead of chasing the heat, these trips are all about crisp mountain air, lakeside walks, dramatic scenery, cosy food, and the kind of weather that makes you want to pull on another layer and keep exploring. From the Italian Alps to the Canadian Rockies, here are seven destinations that come into their own in autumn.

The top winter sun destinations to have on your radar

02 September 2026

As the days become shorter and temperatures begin to drop, there's something incredibly tempting about swapping coats and scarves for sunshine and warm seas. But winter sun doesn't have to mean the same destinations year after year. Whether you're dreaming of tropical islands, unforgettable wildlife encounters, bustling cities, or beaches that stretch for miles, there are plenty of destinations that come into their own during the UK's winter months. If you're already thinking about your next escape, here are five winter sun destinations worth adding to your travel wish list.

South America Holiday Guide: The Best Places and Ways to Travel

12 August 2026

A South America holiday can mean exploring Machu Picchu, watching giant tortoises in the Galápagos, walking beneath the peaks of Patagonia or combining Rio de Janeiro with Iguaçu Falls. The right trip depends on the experiences you want to come home talking about, whether that is Inca history in Peru, wildlife in the Galápagos Islands, glaciers and time outdoors in Patagonia, or the cities and natural landscapes of Brazil.

4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

7 cool-cations for an unforgettable autumn escape

The top winter sun destinations to have on your radar

South America Holiday Guide: The Best Places and Ways to Travel

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