Summer Breeze

As travel restrictions (along with testing requirements) ease, we look ahead to holidays in European cities for some Vitamin D and culture

- By Hannah Brandler. Photographs Istock, Eloi Omella, Masterlu, Estudio Rafael Vargas, Rglinsky, Stocklapse, Rosa Lazia

BARCELONA, SPAIN

The Spanish seaside capital offers a great deal of attractions, from the bustling tree-lined boulevard Las Ramblas to the Barceloneta beach and the remarkable sights of Sagrada Familia and Park Guell from renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. It’s also a foodie spot, with tapas and sangria served until late (or early).

What’s new? Last year the city launched the app Check Barcelona, providing travellers and residents with real-time information about the congestion at approximately 280 tourist sites, and allowing them to make reservations at attractions in advance of visiting.

Stay: The 120-room Hotel El Palace Barcelona (pictured below) occupies the former Ritz of Barcelona, and as such has inherited its 100-plus years of history. El Palace pays homage to former guests, including Salvador Dali, Josephine Baker and more recently Ronnie Wood, in its one-of-a-kind Art Suites, with décor inspired by the stars. Meanwhile, guests can enjoy all-day dining at the majestic Great Hall, cocktails at speakeasy bar El Bluesman, or appreciate panoramic views at the floral rooftop garden.

Abercrombie and Kent offers three nights in a classic room with breakfast from £720 per person, including return flights from London airports, a half-day tour of the city and entrance fees to the Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Park Guell and Gaudi House Museum.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY