There’s something undeniably timeless about afternoon tea in London—a ritual that combines elegance, indulgence, and a dash of theatrical flair. As the city blossoms under the warm summer sun, the capital’s finest hotels and restaurants invite you to linger longer over delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an artful array of pastries. This season, the tradition is elevated with creative twists, breathtaking views, and settings that range from historic grandeur to contemporary chic. Whether you’re seeking a serene sanctuary adorned with crystal chandeliers or a playful experience inspired by literary classics and West End theatre, London’s afternoon teas offer more than just a meal—they are immersive moments of delight. Here, we take you on a curated tour of the best afternoon teas to experience this summer, each promising a unique way to sip, savour, and celebrate the season. The Chinoiserie at Jumeirah Carlton Tower To pay homage to King Charles III’s love of gardening, Jumeirah Carlton Tower draws inspiration from Highgrove for its afternoon tea. The menu features wild mushroom and tarragon tart, smoked salmon with crème fraîche, and a delectable chocolate biscuit cake. The venue champions sustainability, embracing ethical practices and a green vision for the future. Even the floral arrangements feel like they’ve been handpicked from the royal gardens, adding a stately touch to this eco-conscious yet decadently delicious experience. Where: 1 Cadogan Place, Ground Floor, The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, London SW1X 9PY Website: jumeirah.com Hyatt Regency London Travel the world through tea at The Montagu Kitchen with the jet-setting Flavours of the World afternoon tea. Guests receive a boarding pass, welcome drink, and enjoy worldly bites like Mexican bean tacos and corn-bread chicken sandwiches, with sweets presented in a handcrafted luggage box. It’s the sort of tea you book when you’re back from Mykonos and already itching to plan your next escape—passport not required. Where: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH Website: hyatt.com One Aldwych Inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this sweet-themed tea features fluffy candy floss, ‘hair toffee’ mousse, ‘snozzberry’ jam scones, and whimsical cocktails such as The Chocolatier, topped with champagne. Perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s less white gloves, more golden tickets—an afternoon of sugar-laced storytelling that’ll charm even the most cynical grown-up. Where: 1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ Website: onealdwych.com Bread Ahead - Tea House, Pavilion Road Tucked above Bread Ahead’s Pavilion Road bakery, The Tea House feels like a secret garden party—if that party were hosted by someone who trained at a Parisian patisserie and happened to love Battenberg. The space is airy and unpretentious, with a view into the pastry kitchen that gives the whole experience a quietly theatrical charm. The menu is classic-with-a-twist: finger sandwiches that actually make you pause mid-bite, and a cake selection that’s basically a masterclass in British nostalgia. It’s the kind of afternoon tea that makes you want to cancel the rest of your day and stay for another pot of Fortnum’s finest. Priced at just £35pp, this is ideal choice if you are looking into indulge in long conversations sheltered away from the busy streets of Sloane Square. The Lanesborough Fans of Bridgerton will adore The Lanesborough’s festive afternoon tea, created in partnership with Netflix and Shondaland. With finger sandwiches like truffled egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon with lemon mayo, plus the hotel’s signature scones, cream, and jam, this tea offers a delightful nod to the beloved series. Expect Regency-era opulence with modern precision—ideal for anyone who’s secretly hoping to be discovered by a duke while sipping Earl Grey. Where: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA Website: oetkercollection.com Pan Pacific London Tucked away in the tranquil Maxwell Room, Pan Pacific’s latest afternoon tea is a botanical dream come to life. Inspired by the hidden gardens of the Square Mile, the menu celebrates nature’s seasonal bounty with delicate patisserie creations that are as artful as they are indulgent. Surrounded by lush greenery, this serene setting offers more than just a tea—it’s a sensory experience that lingers long after the final sip. Where: 80 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7AB Website: panpacific.com The Prince Akatoki London For a sophisticated Japanese twist, The Prince Akatoki serves smoked salmon blinis with celeriac and wasabi remoulade, quail’s scotch egg sandwich with Japanese mustard mayo, and sweets such as matcha and cranberry scones and passion fruit yuzu Swiss rolls. The result is less clotted cream, more Kyoto minimalism—a calming, umami-forward affair for the aesthetically attuned. Where: 50 Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, London W1H 7FD Website: theprinceakatokilondon.com The Stage at The Londoner Hotel Discover a collection of handmade patisseries alongside signature sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and East India tea. Highlights include Cornish clotted cream with homemade strawberry preserve and lemon curd, a chocolate praline tart, and the sweet paprika cured salt beef sandwich. The mood here is modern Mayfair meets West End chic—think velvet banquettes, fashion editors at the next table, and a sugar high with style. Where: 38 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7DX Website: thelondoner.com The Peninsula London Nestled in a grand, light-filled space with triple-height ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and hand-painted de Gournay murals, The Lobby in The Peninsula offers a serene setting for afternoon tea, accompanied by live music. Guests can enjoy a refined selection of finger sandwiches like golden beetroot with dill cream or roast pepper with baba ganoush, alongside seasonal amuse bouches and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and homemade jams. Sweet treats include indulgent creations such as red velvet cake with vegan cheese mousse, a mango mousse “Bunny Bauble,” and a maple cream-filled “Honey Pot.” Served daily, this elegant experience is paired with a curated selection of fine teas and a children’s menu is also available. Where: 1 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7HJ Website: peninsula.com Searcys at The Gherkin Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the City of London while sipping on a glass of Cuvée Brut Rosé Champagne. The sweets are almost too pretty to eat—almost. But the real showstopper is the sky-high setting, ideal for marking milestones or just pretending you’re starring in your own episode of Succession. Where: The Gherkin, 30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BF Website: searcysatthegherkin.co.uk Oblix at The Shard Afternoon tea with panoramic views of London Bridge and the city skyline is hard to beat. Oblix offers impeccable service paired with a cocktail and champagne package featuring must-try creations like the Pink Cadillac. It’s urban glamour at altitude—best enjoyed in heels, with a second glass of fizz and no evening plans. Where: Level 32, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY Website: oblixrestaurant.com The Stafford London Winner of the 2024 Afternoon Tea Award of Excellence, The Stafford delivers an impeccable experience in The Game Bird restaurant and lounge. The ambience is discreetly luxurious, with white-glove service and a wine list that might tempt you to stray from tea altogether. Where: 16-18 St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NJ Website: thestaffordlondon.com Theatre Royal Drury Lane Set within the beautifully restored Grand Saloon, the Theatre Royal offers a theatrical afternoon tea divided into three acts: A Savoury Prelude, The Sweet Dilemma, and The Finale. It’s afternoon tea with drama—in the best possible sense. Every course is a performance, right down to the curtain-call of caramelised popcorn. Where: Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF Website: thelane.co.uk Sanderson Hotel Step into a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-themed afternoon tea where menus are hidden inside vintage books, and quirky quotes adorn the crockery. It’s delightfully unhinged, in that only-in-London way—made for Instagram, yes, but also genuinely delicious. Where: 50 Berners Street, London W1T 3NG Website: morgansoriginals.com The Rubens at the Palace Overlooking Buckingham Palace’s Royal Mews, The Rubens invites you to dine like royalty with sandwiches featuring smoked salmon, caviar, and chive cream cheese, plus sweet treats such as caramel marshmallow tea cakes and Berliner doughnuts. Arrive in time to spot the Queen’s horses and stay for the polished, pomp-filled hospitality that defines this stately institution. Where: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0PS Website: rubenshotel.com Strand Palace Just minutes from the Novello Theatre, this playful afternoon tea channels the spirit of MAMMA MIA! with a menu bursting with sweet and savoury delights inspired by the musical. Think glitter, showtunes, and just the right amount of edible kitsch—because who doesn’t want to belt Dancing Queen with a macaron in hand? Where: 372 Strand, London WC2R 0JE Website: strandpalacehotel.co.uk Lucy Wong For a distinctive Oriental afternoon tea, Lucy Wong offers festive savouries like pork bao and duck puffs alongside seasonal patisseries, including coconut pandan mousse—a deliciously unique London experience. The tea is served in a seductive, low-lit lounge inspired by 1950s Hong Kong nightlife, creating an atmosphere that’s as alluring as the menu. Pair it with tea-infused cocktails for an unexpected twist on tradition. Where: 33-34 Rathbone Place, London W1T 1JN Website: lucywong.co.uk

Dubai’s skyline is more than a collection of towering buildings and glittering developments—it’s a vivid, ever-evolving playground for the world’s ultra-wealthy, where architecture flirts with fantasy and real estate transcends into spectacle. Here, luxury isn’t just a lifestyle; it’s an art form, performed on a scale so grand it makes the most lavish mansions elsewhere seem positively quaint. From the dizzying heights of the Burj Khalifa’s “Sky Palace” penthouse to the theatrical excess of Palm Jumeirah’s Frond H6, and on to Emirates Hills’ sprawling tech-savvy fortress, Dubai has curated a portfolio of properties that read less like homes and more like living dreams. Each of these residences tells a story of ambition, design, and unapologetic extravagance—the kind that invites you not just to live, but to inhabit an entire mood, a private theatre of wealth where every detail is deliberate and every view curated. In Dubai, the ultimate trophy is never just a trophy. It’s a lifestyle manifesto. The Ultimate Trophy: 108 Floors Up in the Burj Khalifa If you’ve ever looked at the Burj Khalifa and thought, I want to live in the part that makes people dizzy, now’s your chance. The so-called "Sky Palace" has just hit the market at £40 million (approx. $53 million), making it the highest residential property in the world—because of course it is. Sitting 108 floors above Dubai, this 21,000-square-foot penthouse is not so much a home as it is a planetary vantage point, complete with its own private lift and twelve parking spaces for your fleet of supercars. It’s currently an empty shell—just concrete and staggering potential—but that’s the point. For a cool £4 million more, you could transform it into a Bond villain’s dream pad, an AI-assisted design fantasy, or a bi-level sanctuary in the clouds. From its 460-metre-high perch, the views are absurd: the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah, the distant Ras Al Khaimah mountains—like having a rotating Instagram filter built into your windows. Residents get access to all the Burj's luxury accoutrements: private lounges, rooftop jacuzzis, infinity pools, three gyms, and the Armani Hotel’s five-star indulgence. It’s less a flat and more a micro-country. According to Invest Dubai Real Estate CEO Asad Khan, who’s handling the exclusive sale, the Sky Palace could eventually resell for more than £90 million. Which makes this listing not only the ultimate trophy asset but, in Dubai terms, a smart long-term play. Just remember to budget for the vertigo. Frond H6, Where Luxury Meets Theatre on Palm Jumeirah On Palm Jumeirah—Dubai’s man-made island shaped like a date palm, because subtlety has never been the city’s strong suit—there’s a villa so aggressively curated it feels less like a home and more like the inside of a billionaire’s subconscious. Designed by Samir Vissram, Frond H6 is an aesthetic fever dream of polished travertine, oversized art, and lighting that says: “Please admire my success.” The entrance is double-height, glass-walled, and flanked by tropical greenery that likely has a team of full-time horticulturists. Inside, every surface gleams with an editorial sheen. It’s the kind of place that looks permanently staged for a photoshoot—probably because it is. The kitchen is sculptural, the staircase dramatic, and the living room more tastefully restrained than one might expect from a city that loves to gold-plate everything, including its ATM machines. This exquisite property is listed with Engel & Völkers Middle East. Step outside and the fantasy continues. The infinity pool drips effortlessly into a private beach—because apparently private pools aren’t quite private enough—and a glossy white yacht floats just beyond the jetty like the world’s most expensive lawn ornament. There’s a terrace for every mood: one for brunch, one for sunset drinks, and one, presumably, for pondering your next crypto investment. The vibe isn’t just luxury—it’s lifestyle theatre. This is Dubai’s new real estate language: curated to within an inch of its life, global in its references, and just aspirational enough to make you wonder if you should’ve married that guy with the tech start-up. Frond H6 isn’t a house. It’s a mood board in motion. Luxury Redefined in Emirates Hills’ Crown Jewel In a city where extravagance is the baseline, this AED 150 million Emirates Hills mansion doesn’t just raise the bar—it reinvents it. Spanning a staggering 32,869 sq. ft., this six-bedroom architectural marvel is a symphony of bespoke design and cutting-edge innovation, crafted for those who demand their home be nothing less than a statement. This property is listed with Engel & Völkers Middle East. From the private cinema where you can binge in absolute darkness, to the spa and gym that make wellness a daily ritual, and the rooftop jacuzzi perched above Dubai’s iconic skyline and the Burj Khalifa’s glittering spire, every inch is curated for indulgence. A soundproof sports bar in the basement invites high-stakes celebrations while ensuring the party stays strictly on premises—and out of earshot. Privacy here is paramount, with a dedicated staff wing, a private lift connecting all floors, and secure parking for ten cars, making exclusivity effortless. Meanwhile, state-of-the-art smart home technology orchestrates your every need with just a tap or a word, so life here is as seamless as it is spectacular. Nestled in Sector W—the crown jewel of Emirates Hills—this residence is less a house and more a fortress of luxury, designed for the discerning few who settle for nothing but the ultimate.

If you’re planning to summer in Europe (yes, it’s a verb now), you’ll want more than a decent beach and an overpriced spritz. You want discretion. Beauty. Service that doesn’t come with side-eye when you ask for oat milk. The kind of elegance that whispers instead of shouting through a DJ booth. Here’s where to go when you want your summer to look like a campaign for The Row—but with slightly more rosé. 1. Antibes, France Why: The French Riviera, minus the flash Antibes is what St Tropez was before billionaires turned it into an open-air car showroom. It’s old money, coastal chic, and full of linen in varying shades of cream. The kind of place where you sip rosé from a private villa and read a biography about Lee Radziwill just because you can. Where to Stay: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc A legend. Frequented by every A-lister who doesn’t need to announce they’re in the south of France. Belles Rives Historic, glamorous, and once home to the Fitzgeralds. Come for the art deco interiors, stay for the sea terrace. Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel Minimalist, modern, and perfectly perched. What to Do: Book a boat for the day—ideally one with a skipper who brings champagne. Visit the Picasso Museum housed in Château Grimaldi. Take the Sentier du Littoral walk, but only in Loewe sandals. 2. Lake Como, Italy Why: Cinematic views with matching prices Lake Como doesn’t do subtle. Nor should it. It’s where you go when you’ve worked too hard all year and want to be rewarded with pasta, silk sheets, and someone offering you another bellini before noon. Where to Stay: Villa d’Este A 16th-century villa that now caters to those who pack more handbags than clothes. Passalacqua A newly restored private villa turned boutique hotel with lavish gardens and lake views that feel unreal. Grand Hotel Tremezzo For vintage glamour with an Aperol-orange pool that floats on the lake. What to Do: Take a Riva boat tour, because yes, it is as fabulous as it sounds. Explore Bellagio and Varenna, then escape the crowds with dinner on your private terrace. Visit Villa Balbianello, and pretend you’re in a Bond film (because you are). 3. Saint-Tropez, France Why: Because sometimes excess is the point If Antibes is for the discreetly rich, Saint-Tropez is for those who like their caviar served with a side of flash photography. But make no mistake—it’s still luxury, just with more bronzer and branded swimwear. Where to Stay: Cheval Blanc St-Tropez LVMH’s ultra-luxe outpost with private beach access and a Guerlain spa. Hotel Byblos A legendary jet-set hideaway that feels like summer 1971 on the French Riviera. Pan Deï Palais An 18th-century mansion turned intimate five-star escape. What to Do: Secure a table at Club 55 and act unimpressed. Shop at Dior’s pop-up, then walk over to Dior Des Lices for lunch. Charter a yacht. Always. 4. Porto Cervo, Sardinia Why: Billionaire’s playground with zero influencers Costa Smeralda is for those who would never dream of “checking in” anywhere. Sardinia’s northeast coast is private, pristine, and priced for discretion. If you know, you know. If you don’t, you’re probably not invited. Where to Stay: Hotel Cala di Volpe Made famous by The Spy Who Loved Me , and somehow still impossibly cool. Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel Ultra-luxury with a private beach and serious spa credentials. Petra Segreta Resort & Spa Secluded, serene, and perched in the hills for extra peace (and views). What to Do: Spend the day at Phi Beach for sunset DJ sets and barefoot elegance. Book a boat to the Maddalena Islands—Sardinia’s best-kept secret. Dine at La Pergola in Villa d’Este if you happen to find yourself nearby. If not, fly there. 5. Capri, Italy Why: Because la dolce vita still means something Capri has long been the choice of fashion editors, movie stars, and people who still wear actual perfume. It’s the kind of place where everyone looks airbrushed and no one wears a smartwatch. Where to Stay: JK Place Capri Luxe, laid-back, and perched just outside the crowds with unobstructed views. Hotel Quisisana An icon with a guestbook that reads like a red carpet lineup. La Scalinatella Intimate and impeccably Italian, with staff who remember your name (and your cocktail). What to Do: Shop in Capri town (Dolce & Gabbana, Aquazzura, etc.) then lunch at Da Paolino under a canopy of lemon trees. Take the chairlift up to Monte Solaro for dramatic photos you’ll pretend were candid. Charter a wooden gozzo to tour the Blue Grotto (before 9am, trust me). 6. Dubrovnik, Croatia Why: Medieval charm meets mega yachts Dubrovnik isn’t a secret anymore, but it’s still a spectacle. The Old Town is pure Game of Thrones grandeur, and the coastline is made for champagne toasts and vintage silk headscarves. Come for the views, stay for the Adriatic energy that makes even a Negroni feel crisp. Where to Stay: Hotel Excelsior Classic, elegant, and steps from the Old Town. What to Do: Walk the city walls at sunrise, then promptly retreat to the pool. Visit Lokrum Island for a wild, car-free nature break (there are peacocks, FYI). Book a table at 360 Restaurant , the Michelin-starred spot overlooking the harbour. 7. Mykonos, Greece Why: When your idea of luxury includes champagne showers Mykonos isn’t subtle, but it is stylish. It’s for those who fly private but still want to dance until sunrise in a €700 swimsuit. If you want calm, head to Paros. If you want curated chaos in the chicest setting possible, stay here. Where to Stay: Cavo Tagoo Infamous for its infinity pools and influencer clientele (judge all you want, it’s spectacular). Kalesma Mykonos Sleek, serene, and set above Ornos Bay with sunset views that feel fake. Bill & Coo Coast Suites Intimate and low-key for when you’ve had enough of Nammos. What to Do: Long lunch at Scorpios , where linen and sunglasses do most of the talking. Wander Mykonos Town’s maze-like alleys for jewellery shopping and selfies you pretend weren’t planned. Charter a yacht to Delos for a cultural fix (but mainly the boat).

You can tell a lot about someone by how they do Europe in the summer. There’s the forest-and-lakes type, who pretends not to care about Wi-Fi but posts perfectly lit hiking shots from a thermal pool. There’s the city-lover, who somehow always finds the coolest rooftop bar and remembers the names of emerging designers in Antwerp. And then there’s the beach person—let’s be honest, we all want to be her—wearing Loewe on a boat and pretending she’s “just here to decompress.” So, where are they all going in 2025? From alpine design hotels to Grecian glamour, here’s your European travel cheat sheet—based entirely on your seasonal personality. 🌲 You Romanticise Trees: For Forest & Mountain People 1. The Dolomites, Italy Not your average mountain moment. This is where you go when you’ve outgrown Switzerland and want something with more edge—and better pasta. Book Forestis if your suitcase is full of cashmere and you plan to meditate at sunrise. Go hiking for the content, spa for the silence, and stay for the altitude-induced clarity. 2. Lake Bled, Slovenia It’s giving fairy tale but make it minimal . A mirror-still lake, medieval castle, and an island church you have to row to (not optional—it’s half the charm). You’ll swim, paddleboard, and pretend you're writing a novel. Think of it as your Wes Anderson summer chapter. 3. Lofoten Islands, Norway No one casually “ends up” in the Lofoten Islands. This is intentional travel, a place where you wear your Patagonia over your The Row trousers and kayak past mountains that look like they were Photoshopped. Come for the midnight sun, stay because your soul insists. 4. Geneva, Switzerland A luxury that doesn’t scream. Think quiet watches, quiet water, quiet wealth. Base yourself at The Woodward , do laps in Lake Geneva, and book a boat out to Montreux if you’re feeling jazz-curious. Not a “flashy” destination, which is exactly the point. 🏙️ You’re Here for the Vibe Shift: For City Travellers 5. Paris, France With the Olympics descending on Paris this July, expect crowds and couture in equal measure. It’ll be chaos. It’ll be chic. Stay at Cheval Blanc if you’re feeling spendy, or Hotel Grand Mazarin if you want something slightly less obvious. Pack sneakers and a silk slip—you’ll need both. 6. Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon is still cool, in that undercut-and-ceramics kind of way. Spend mornings in Alfama, afternoons on rooftops, and evenings pretending you know how to pronounce “petiscos.” The Marvila district is where the gallery girls are, and the food scene keeps surprising even the jaded. 7. Venice, Italy Yes, Venice in summer is humid. Yes, it’s crowded. But it’s also Venice. And if you do it right—water taxis only, spritzes by the canal, avoiding San Marco like it’s Times Square—it becomes cinematic. Stay at Aman Venice , bring your best vintage linen, and let the lagoon do the work. Find our comprehensive guide on visiting Venice here . 8. Antwerp, Belgium If you like your cities small, stylish, and obsessed with silhouette, go to Antwerp. Home of the Royal Academy, concept stores, and more gallery openings than time allows. It’s a fashion week without the stress. Bonus: fewer influencers, more designers. 9. Tbilisi, Georgia Tbilisi is not trying to be anyone else. It’s part Soviet, part Parisian, part psychedelic rave. You’ll find wine bars inside brutalist buildings, sulphur baths next to fashion studios, and possibly the best bread in Europe. You’ll leave feeling smarter, dirtier, and wanting to go back immediately. 10. Vienna, Austria Vienna’s thing is being effortlessly elegant. It’s not screaming for attention, it’s just serving candelabras and Klimt and perfect patisserie. Come in July, walk everywhere, and book into Rosewood Vienna if you want to live like you’re married to a conductor. 🏖️ You Packed Six Swimsuits: For Beach People 11. Mykonos, Greece You already know the story: dancing on tables at Nammos, martinis at Scorpios , and the kind of beach hair that only happens when you don’t try. But 2025 Mykonos is a little calmer—think private villas, sunrise swims, and post-party pilates. Still bring your best swimwear. It’s still Mykonos. 12. Menorca, Spain For those who want the Balearics without the scene. It’s all hidden coves, soft beaches, and rustic-chic villas. Vestige Son Vell is where the design crowd books in. You’ll eat sobrasada, drink too much vermouth, and start googling local real estate. Again. 13. Comporta, Portugal The coastal crush of fashion editors. Comporta is a barefoot-luxury fantasy: pine forests, thatched rooftops, sand everywhere, and no one’s wearing makeup. It’s like someone turned down the volume on Ibiza. Try Sublime Comporta or rent a house. Either way, pack white. 14. Sorrento, Italy It’s Capri’s quieter, slightly more grounded cousin—easier on the budget and heavy on lemon-scented romance. Spend your days boat-hopping, eating gelato, and wearing silk scarves like you’re being followed by Slim Aarons. Stay at Bellevue Syrene or Maison La Minervetta for serious retro appeal. 15. Sardinia, Italy Sardinia’s secret is out, but it’s still glorious. Yes, the Costa Smeralda is very yacht-core. But if you move south—toward Chia or Villasimius—you’ll find emptier beaches and unfiltered beauty. Come for the water, stay for the ravioli. Fashion-wise, it's all about understated glamour. Final Thought Whether you’re running toward a beach club or away from your inbox, summer in Europe this year has a destination—and a wardrobe—for everyone. Book early, bring linen, and don’t forget to leave room in your luggage for whatever you accidentally buy on the way.

Let’s get one thing straight: Venice is not for the minimalist. It’s for the romantic, the maximalist, the person who thinks an embroidered velvet slipper counts as a neutral. It’s a city that has perfected the art of the flourish. Gilded palazzi rest on the water like couture gowns suspended mid-swirl. Gondoliers wear striped shirts with the casual elegance of a Saint Laurent campaign. Even the pigeons seem to loiter in St Mark’s Square like they’re waiting to be photographed for a Loewe lookbook. Venice is a city where the line between past and present, reality and theatre, is not just blurred—it’s stylishly smudged. But Venice isn’t just a backdrop for fashion—it’s a destination about fashion. It’s where tailors once dressed doges, and where masked balls set the template for everything from Dior’s high fantasy to Gucci’s decadent reinventions. Today, the city’s floating beauty plays host to high-gloss events like the Venice Film Festival and Biennale, both beloved by editors and celebrities who treat the city like a runway. So if you're going to visit, you do it properly: you arrive looking like you belong on the front row. When to Visit (And What to Wear) Timing matters. While Venice has a year-round charm (think moody fog in winter, golden haze in autumn), the most fashionable season to visit is early spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October) . That’s when the city blooms without being besieged by cruise crowds, and you can stroll the streets in gauzy linens or cashmere-light trench coats without melting. Avoid August—unless you like heat, humidity, and the smell of canal water stronger than your Byredo. Byredo Inflorescence Eau de Parfum - £150.00 - Click here Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo – Fico di Amalfi - £147.00 - Click here The nearest airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) , about 20 minutes by water taxi to the city proper. And yes, we do mean water taxi—skip the land transport. There is nothing chic about dragging Rimowa wheels over cobblestones. Where to Stay: Five Hotels as Stylish as You Are Aman Venice Set inside a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice is the hotel for those who understand that true luxury whispers. With museum-worthy interiors, original Tiepolo frescoes, and a private garden (a rare Venetian luxury), this is where fashion designers and discreet celebrities check in to disappear. Karl Lagerfeld once hosted a Chanel soirée here—need we say more? Vibe: Couture-level elegance meets monastic calm. Book if: You want to feel like the protagonist in a Luca Guadagnino film. The Gritti Palace Overlooking the Grand Canal with views of Santa Maria della Salute, The Gritti Palace is unapologetically ornate. Rooms are filled with antique Murano glass, Rubelli fabrics, and oil paintings worthy of a Sotheby’s lot. It’s also home to the legendary Gritti Epicurean School and the always-buzzy Riva Lounge terrace. Vibe: Decadent, baroque, and utterly photogenic. Book if: You packed a wardrobe of maximalist silks and brought three books you won’t read. Ca’ di Dio This newcomer sits quietly near the Arsenale, away from the cruise crowds. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Ca’ di Dio is minimalist, architectural, and soothing—almost spa-like. The interiors blend stone, wood, and subtle luxe touches that whisper sustainability without shouting “eco-resort.” Vibe: Contemporary Venetian chic with a conscience. Book if: You prefer a hidden gem with design credentials and zero foot traffic. Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel Located on Giudecca Island, just across the water from the main hubbub of San Marco, the Cipriani is cinematic in every sense. Think: 1950s jet-set glamour, gondola arrivals, and guests in headscarves and silk kaftans sipping Bellinis by the Olympic-sized pool. It’s not quiet luxury—it’s confident luxury. Vibe: Old-school glamour, Aperol in hand. Book if: You like the idea of arriving to Venice by private launch with matching luggage. Nolinski Venezia A new favourite among the art-and-fashion crowd, Nolinski Venezia brings Parisian cool to Venetian grandeur. Housed in the former Chamber of Commerce near Piazza San Marco, the interiors are pure visual drama—designed by Le Coadic & Scotto , it’s a moody blend of velvet, marble, and gold-leaf finishes that feels like Studio 54 met a Renaissance palazzo. The rooms? Plush, sensual, impeccably dressed in tonal layers. The vibe? Intimate and theatrical. There’s also Il Caffè , a contemporary take on the classic Venetian café-bar, and a subterranean spa for post-gondola recalibration. It’s where stylists go when they want to not be seen but still be seen. Vibe: Editorial shoot set meets Italian aristocracy in after-dark mode. Book if: You love Loewe, order martinis dirty, and want to stay somewhere with real edge. Where to Eat: Fashion Girl Dining Approved Antiche Carampane A local favourite tucked away in San Polo, this trattoria is as unpretentious as it is exceptional. Must try: Spaghetti alle Vongole . Order the fritto misto and act like you’re on a Vogue food shoot. Ristorante Quadri Overlooking St. Mark’s Square and boasting a Michelin star, Quadri is where you go when you want to dress up and dine like a Medici. Must try: Risotto with red prawns and saffron . The interiors? Restored by Philippe Starck. Osteria alle Testiere Tiny, intimate, and wildly sought-after—book ahead. Their grilled scallops with orange zest and basil are legendary. Bring someone you’re trying to impress, or take yourself and be impressed anyway. Glam Two Michelin stars and a terrace on the Grand Canal. Glam, helmed by Chef Donato Ascani, delivers Venetian cuisine that’s modern without trying too hard. Must try: Smoked eel risotto . Très editorial. What to See in Three Days (Besides Yourself in Every Mirror) Day 1 St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace : Start traditional—there’s fashion in the frescos. Aperitivo at Caffè Florian : Iconic, opulent, and the birthplace of many accidental fashion campaigns. St. Mark’s Basilica is Venice’s original statement piece—proof that maximalism never really goes out of style. Day 2 Take a private boat to Murano for a glassblowing atelier visit. Book in advance and wear something flowy—it looks better with fire. Visit Fondaco dei Tedeschi : A historic palazzo turned luxury shopping haven curated by DFS, with brands from Gucci to Bottega. Head to the rooftop for panoramic views. Walk on the Rialto Bridge , where designer boutiques now flank the centuries-old span once lined with spice traders—proof that fashion and commerce have always been at the heart of this city. Day 3 Explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art and stylish ghosts. Afternoon walk through Dorsoduro for quieter alleys and independent boutiques. Book an evening at Teatro La Fenice . Yes, the opera. No, you don’t have to stay awake the whole time. But the outfits? Worth it. Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors Pack for water: Always have flats or sandals that won’t drown. And for the love of Anna Wintour, no stilettos. Get lost on purpose : Venice is a labyrinth and the best moments happen when you’re off Google Maps. Invest in a 72-hour Vaporetto pass : It’s like public transport, but make it nautical. Skip the tourist traps in Rialto for aperitivo : Head to Campo Santa Margherita or the bars in Cannaregio for spritzes where the locals go. For the Fashion-Focused Itinerary Personal shopping experience at Fondaco dei Tedeschi : Book a concierge session and let someone else carry your bags. Visit the Rubelli textile showroom : An insider spot where haute couture meets Venetian fabric heritage. Attend Venice Fashion Week (October) : Intimate, artisanal, and refreshingly anti-Milan. Commission a custom mask or accessory from local artisans in San Polo. Think of it as wearable history. Private gondola ride with prosecco and a violinist : Yes, it’s cliché. It’s also perfect. In Conclusion: Venice Is Always a Good Idea (Especially in Designer Sunglasses) Venice is not a checklist city. It’s a mood. It demands that you slow down, look around, and maybe change your outfit twice a day. It rewards drama, extravagance, and old-school charm. Whether you’re eating tiramisu by the Grand Canal or drifting under bridges in silk trousers, Venice reminds you that beauty, like fashion, is meant to be experienced—not just observed. Pack your best vintage Valentino, book that water taxi, and let Venice do the rest.

Let’s be honest: there are few places on Earth that have managed to stay as universally romanticised—and widely photographed—as the Amalfi Coast. It’s the kind of destination people claim they’re going to for the culture and the fresh seafood , but really they’re going because they want to wear linen pants and pretend they’ve gone off-grid when in fact they’re checking WhatsApp every six minutes from a sunbed in Positano. Which, to be fair, is still more romantic than most dating app experiences. In 2025, the Amalfi Coast hasn’t reinvented itself—and why would it? It’s still unapologetically glamorous, staggeringly expensive in places, and genuinely breathtaking. The kind of place where your espresso costs more than a sandwich back home, but the view makes you forget you ever cared. It’s a little bit old money, a little bit chaotic, and every bit the fantasy people sell you in travel reels. But what makes the Amalfi Coast really worth visiting now is the fact that it doesn’t care if you visit. It’s not desperate to win you over like newer “it” destinations. It’s been fabulous for centuries. This guide is for those who don’t need convincing—but do need to know exactly where to book the most beautiful room, eat the best lemon pasta, and wear the white dress they’ve been saving since February. ✈️ Getting There (Because No, There Is No Amalfi Airport) You’ll likely fly into Naples , which sounds romantic until you realise the airport Starbucks line is longer than the flight from London. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive or a slightly nausea-inducing boat ride, depending on how committed you are to “the experience.” The best option? Pre-book a car service that doesn’t reek of lemon-scented air freshener. Or if you're really leaning into it, do the train-to-Salerno and private boat combo. Bonus: arriving by sea looks excellent on Instagram Stories (not that you care, of course). 🛏️ Where to Stay (Because You're Not 22 Anymore) The Amalfi Coast isn’t cheap. But that’s part of the allure—nothing says “I’m doing well” like a €19 limoncello at a hotel with monogrammed towels. Our article about the best hotels on the Amalfi coast here. For the Main Character Energy : Le Sirenuse, Positano If the walls could talk, they’d name-drop harder than you do. For Minimalism With a View : Casa Angelina, Praiano White-on-white interiors and the quietest pool you'll ever Instagram. For Old Money Glamour : Il San Pietro di Positano The lift to the private beach alone is worth the price tag. Editor’s Pick : Borgo Santandrea, Amalfi One of those places that’s so chic it barely has to try (but it does, quietly). Our article about the best hotels on the Amalfi coast here. 🍝 Where to Eat (And Be Seen Eating, Obviously) Yes, the pasta is good. But it’s also about who you might run into while ordering it. The Romantic One La Sponda Lit by 400 candles, none of which are scented. The One Locals Actually Go To Trattoria da Gemma You may cry over the lemon pasta, and it’s not just the carbs. The Fancy One in Ravello Rossellinis Perfect for those evenings when you dress for dinner. Like, really dress. 🛥️ What to Do (Other Than “Just Chill”) You will inevitably end up lounging on a sunbed wondering what it would cost to live here forever. But in between those moments of existential bliss, do this: Charter a Boat to Capri You’ll stop at caves, swim off the boat, and realise your phone has no signal. Bliss. Walk Through Ravello’s Gardens They were made for writers and poets. Or, in your case, the Notes app. Beach Clubs : Arienzo is where the cool people go. La Scogliera is where the really cool people go. If You Must Hike : The Path of the Gods The views are incredible. Your thighs will never forgive you. 🧳 What to Pack (Hint: Nothing Practical) The fashion vibe here is “I live in Milan and forgot to book return flights.” Think linen that whispers, “this costs more than your rent,” sunglasses that hide jet lag, and at least one white dress you’ll panic about spilling wine on. Don’t forget: SPF (obviously) Swimsuits that double as tops Something floaty and ridiculous for dinner And sandals that don’t scream tourist See: What to Pack for the Amalfi Coast If You’re Not a Backpacker [link] 🛍️ Where to Shop (You’ll Regret Not Buying the Ceramics) There’s not a Zara in sight, thank god. Instead, you’ll find: Ceramics in Ravello : Hand-painted, heavy, and hard to fit in a carry-on Linen in Positano : If it looks like something an Italian grandmother might wear, buy it Custom Sandals in Capri : You choose the leather, they fit them to your feet, you feel like Jackie O 💬 Final Thoughts The Amalfi Coast hasn’t changed all that much. And that’s the point. It still smells like lemons and sunscreen. You’ll still spend €12 on espresso and not blink. And you’ll leave already planning your return, because in a world of newness, the Amalfi Coast knows the power of staying the same.