The Best London Hotels for Afternoon Tea

Claridge’s

Courtesy of Claridge’s

Claridge’s afternoon tea is served in the Theirry Despont designed foyer and reading room – a glamorous setting inspired by the art deco movement of the 1930s. The menu features a selection of decadent sandwiches, such as Clarence Court duck egg with heritage tomato and basil on white bread and Norfolk chicken breast with truffle and parmesan on rye bread, among others. Hand-made pastries, crafted under the guidance of pastry chef Jérôme Chaucesse, are made fresh daily. The in-house tea connoisseur, Henrietta Lovell, selects teas from around the world and works closely with executive chef, Martyn Nail, to ensure each brew complements the food and is expertly prepared and poured. Guests can choose between traditional, champagne or children’s afternoon tea served daily between 2:45 pm and 5:30 pm. Book Now

The Langham

Courtesy of the Langham

Since its luxurious Palm Court opened in 1865, the Langham London became the first grand hotel to ever serve afternoon tea. The menu is overseen by chef Michel Roux Jr. and executive pastry chef Andrew Gravett and takes inspiration from Britain’s classic biscuits and baked tarts. Pastries pair perfectly with their selection of JING tea, a single garden British tea brand, and sparkling wine from Gusbourne, an estate with vineyards in Kent and West Sussex. Menu highlights include roast beef with sauce ‘Albert’ and watercress on caraway bread and ploughman’s cheese scone made with raw milk Isle of Mull cheddar, tamarind pickle and apple. The Langham London serves afternoon tea from Thursday through Sunday between 12:30 pm and 5 pm. Book Now

The Cadogan

Courtesy of the Cadogan

The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, is conveniently located between London’s Knightsbridge and Chelsea neighborhoods. Inspired by childhood memories of spending time with his grandmother, chef Adam Handling and his team have created a delicious afternoon tea experience. Open daily from 12 pm to 6 pm, guests can sip on tea while sampling a selection of sandwiches, including classics like smoked salmon and cream cheese with pickled shallot and dill on granary bread. Freshly baked scones and an assortment of sweet treats, such as coffee cake with mascarpone cream and fig leaf and blackcurrant tarts, are also served up daily. The kitchen is proud to use some of London’s best seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients for their ever-changing menus. Book Now

The Savoy

Courtesy of the Savoy

Since 1889, travelers from all over the world have been coming to the Thames Foyer London to enjoy afternoon tea at the Savoy. Located in the heart of the hotel, the foyer has a stunning glass-domed atrium with a gazebo from which a pianist plays during the day. They offer more than 30 tea varieties served along with finger sandwiches, such as coronation chicken and Himalayan salt-cured cucumber with sundried tomato hummus, as well as home-made scones with clotted cream, jam and lemon curd and a selection of pastries. Guests can also add a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier or Deutz Rosé to complete the experience. Afternoon tea is served from Monday through Tuesday between 12 pm and 4 pm (last seating at 2:45 pm) and from Wednesday through Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm (last seating at 4:45 pm). Book Now

The Ritz

Courtesy of the Ritz

The Ritz London has been serving afternoon tea since 1906. Today, guests can choose between traditional afternoon tea or champagne afternoon tea. The traditional afternoon tea is served in the Palm Court surrounded by twinkling chandeliers, glittering mirrors and fresh flowers. They serve 18 different types of loose leaf tea alongside scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve, as well as sandwiches, teacakes and pastries. The champagne afternoon tea can be enjoyed with musical accompaniment from resident pianist Ian Gomes. Sittings for afternoon tea take place daily at 11:30 am 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Please be mindful of the dress code: gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie; jeans and sportswear are not permitted for ladies or gentlemen. Book Now

The Ned

Courtesy of the Ned

The Ned by Soho House is a hotel and members’ club in the City of London with nine restaurants. Afternoon tea is served in Millie’s Lounge set amidst the Grand Banking Hall, which features original, double height, wrought iron windows, vaulted ceilings and verdite columns. In addition to afternoon tea classics of cakes, scones and sandwiches, guests can order ham hock scotch eggs with gribiche sauce and Jersey Rocks oysters. Tea is served from Monday to Friday between 2 pm and 5 pm, as well as Saturday from midday to 5 pm. Book Now

The Goring

Courtesy of the Goring

Built in 1910, the Goring is the only luxury hotel in London that is still owned and run by the family that built it. They have been perfecting the art of afternoon tea since the hotel opened its doors over a century ago. Guests can enjoy a pot of the Goring Afternoon Blend, their signature blend of Assam and second flush Darjeeling. Afternoon tea also comes with pastries, scones and sandwiches, which also pair well with a glass of Bollinger Special Cuvée Champagne or Bollinger Rosé Champagne along with hand-picked strawberries. Afternoon tea is served in the hotel’s veranda from Monday through Friday at 3:30 pm, 4 pm and 4:30 pm, as well as Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. On Saturday, afternoon tea is served in the dining room from 1 pm to 4:30 pm. Book Now

Jam first, or clotted cream?

Scone preparation has been a topic of much debate for generations. The Cornish tradition is to spread the jam on a halved scone and then add clotted cream on top. It’s been reported that the Queen prefers her scones this way. However, in other parts of England, such as Devon, it is common to add the cream first and then the jam. Both ways are fine, so you’ll just have to find the order that best suits your taste.

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Most of the world’s best hotels offer similar guarantees: excellent service, beautiful accommodations and delicious food, but a few elite properties offer more – a chance to experience something truly unique, if not one-of-a-kind. De L’Europe Amsterdam has that special something; it’s a fine art museum disguised as a luxury hotel. Independently run since 1896, the property reflects the beauty of Holland and its history, particularly the Dutch Golden Age (approx. 1575 –1675) when the Netherlands led the world in trade, science and art.

De L’Europe is located in the heart of Amsterdam on the foundation of the city wall making it an iconic landmark set on the banks of the Amstel River. In 2020, the hotel underwent a complete redesign of its ground floor led by Amsterdam-based interior design studio Nicemakers. The hotel’s expansive lobby is elegant with bespoke furniture, seventeenth-century art and picturesque views of the terrace and river. Design elements include jewel tones, round shapes and soft lines. Stylish seating areas extend to the far end of the main room, and dazzling chandeliers pour down from the ceiling like icing on a cake.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Rooms & Suites

De L’Europe has 111 rooms, suites and signature suites. The rooms feature classic or modern designs, unique layouts, architectural accents, grand windows and stunning views. The décor is inspired by the past with a nod to Dutch masters, like Rembrandt, Vermeer and Hals, but the amenities are inspired by the future with tech-forward conveniences, like Apple TVs, Bose sound bars, motion-detecting floor lighting, Nespresso machines and WIFI. Many rooms have private balconies and terraces overlooking Amsterdam or the inner courtyard, and each room features a dedicated piece of art from the Rijksmuseum.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Fine Dining

De L’Europe’s restaurants are among the best in Amsterdam. Bord’Eau is the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant by executive chef Bas van Kranen. The seasonal menus reflect Kranen’s interest in pure, light cuisine, as well as an affinity for locally-sourced fish and vegetables. The kitchen features eau (fish, crustacean and shellfish), flore (vegetable) and faune (game and organic meat), and the wine cellar has more than 900 labels. Guests can also enjoy Marie, a French brasserie named after the wife of Gerard Heineken. Inspired by the French Riviera, Marie offers a more informal atmosphere in the restaurant or waterfront terrace.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

The hotel’s bar, Freddy’s Bar, is the perfect place for a nightcap. Named after Alfred “Freddy” Heineken, chairman and CEO of Heineken International between 1971 and 1989, this high-end pub serves spirits, wine and beer alongside savory snacks. House cocktails, like the Dutch Martini, Regal Fizz and New Amsterdam Sour, are made with care, and the well-tended bar attracts travelers and locals alike. Don’t miss the daily jazz performances by the in-house pianist.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Spa & Wellness Center

For guests looking to unwind, the hotel’s bespoke spa and wellness center is just the spot. Facilities include an indoor pool, Finish sauna, Turkish steam bath and jacuzzi. Le Spa by Skins Institute is designed to pamper and nourish the mind, body and soul with a range of personalized treatments. The fitness studio is fully equipped, and personal trainers are available by appointment.

Boutiques

In 2020, ‘t Huys (Dutch for house) opened as a new wing of the hotel. The space offers a business residency for luxury-minded local purveyors. Current hubs include MENDO for art-inspired books, the Wunderkammer for high-end floral services, Skins Spa for deluxe beauty treatments and Graziella for authentic Italian food. ‘T Huys breathes new life into the hotel with an exciting mix of talented artists and entrepreneurs who value quality, creativity and innovation.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

Location

De L’Europe is conveniently located near many world-class museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. It is also situated within walking distance of the city’s finest boutiques and department stores. The property itself sits along Amsterdam’s seventeenth-century Canal Ring, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010. Don’t miss the chance to see the city from its famous canals with boat tours departing from De L’Europe’s terrace.

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

De L’Europe Amsterdam is a rare beauty with inspired interiors, elegant accommodations and fine dining. The hotel’s long-standing commitment to celebrating Dutch history, culture and art is worthy of high praise, and its attention to detail is the result of more than one hundred and twenty years of refinement. This museum-like property should be on everyone’s European hotel bucket list. Click here to make a reservation.

De L’Europe
Website: https://www.deleurope.com/
Phone: +31 20 531 17 77
Email: hotel@deleurope.com
Address: Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14, Amsterdam
Book Now

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Top 10 Classic City Hotels in Europe

Ritz Paris

Courtesy of the Ritz Paris

Ernest Hemingway once said, “when in Paris the only reason not to stay at the Ritz is if you can’t afford it.” Since 1898, the Ritz Paris is one of the most revered hotels in the world. Located in Place Vendôme, this iconic Parisian hotel has 142 accommodations, including 71 luxurious suites. It’s hosted legendary guests, including Marcel Proust, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Coco Chanel, among others. In 2012, the Ritz Paris underwent a complete restoration led by architect and designer Thierry W. Despont. Guests have access to a private garden and a terrace that offers year-round dining thanks to its retractable roof and heated floors. The Ritz has several excellent restaurants and bars, including L’Espadon by Chef Nicolas Sale, Bar Vendome, Bar Hemingway and the Salon Proust. The Ritz Health Club features a stunning neoclassic indoor swimming pool, hammam and sauna, and the Chanel Spa is the first and only facility of its kind. Book Now

Gritti Palace in Venice

Courtesy of the Gritti Palace

The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is located directly off Venice’s Grand Canal. The property dates back to 1475 when the Pisani family transformed it into its current Gothic shape. In 1525 the building became the private residence of the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti, and in the centuries that followed, it was home to other noble families and illustrious visitors. Today, guests can walk in the footsteps of Peggy Guggenheim, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The property has 82 rooms and suites spread out over four floors. Interiors feature beautiful terrazzo floors, and the hotel boasts a remarkable art collection. Book Now
Read More: Is Venice Worth Visiting?

Claridge’s in London

Courtesy of Claridge’s

Set in London’s posh Mayfair neighborhood, Claridge’s is one of the most luxurious hotels in Europe. It opened in 1856 and quickly began building its world-class reputation, particularly after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert dropped by for a visit in 1860. It welcomed flappers in the 1920s, served as a refuge for exiled heads of state during WWII and hosted Hollywood icons, such as Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn and Audrey Hepburn. In 1996, Claridge’s underwent a restoration led by architect and designer Thierry W. Despont. Today, this art deco masterpiece has 190 rooms and suites that reflect the hotel’s Victorian and Art Deco heritage, as well as two restaurants and two bars. Be sure to book Claridge’s legendary afternoon tea, which is served daily in the foyer and reading room. Book Now
Read More: Best London Hotels for Afternoon Tea

De L’Europe in Amsterdam

Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

De L’Europe Amsterdam is a fine art museum disguised as a luxury hotel. Independently run since 1896, the property reflects the beauty of Holland and its history, particularly the Dutch Golden Age of the seventeenth century. Located in the heart of Amsterdam on the banks of the Amstel River, De L’Europe has 111 rooms, suites and signature suites. The rooms feature classic or modern designs, unique layouts, grand windows and stunning views.  In 2020, the hotel underwent a complete redesign of its ground floor led by Amsterdam-based interior design studio Nicemakers. Many rooms have private balconies and terraces overlooking Amsterdam, and each room features a dedicated piece of art from the Rijksmuseum. Bord’Eau is the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant by executive chef Bas van Kranen. Book Now
Read More: Hotel Review for De L’Europe

The Dolder Grand in Zurich

Courtesy of the Dolder Grand

Between 1897 and 1899, the Dolder Grand Hotel was built under the direction of the Basel architect Jacques Gros. During the war years, members of European royal families flocked to this luxury Swiss hotel to escape unrest. The beginning of post-war prosperity also marks the start of a successful era for Zurich and the Grand Hotel. Previous guests have included Winston Churchill, Thomas Mann, John Wayne, Sophia Loren, and Prince Charles, among others. Today, the Dolder Grand has 175 guest rooms and suites. Its elevated location in Zurich provides guests with stunning views of the city, lake and mountains. The property’s art collection includes more than 100 works by world-famous artists, such as Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí and Jean Tinguely. The hotel’s spa and Aqua Zone feature a large swimming pool with panoramic windows, as well as outdoor whirlpools, steam baths and snow areas. Don’t miss The Restaurant in the Dolder Grand by executive chef Heiko Nieder. It has two Michelin stars and 19 Gault Millau points and serves seasonal, innovative gourmet cuisine. Book Now
Read More: Top 10 Bucket List Hotels in Switzerland

Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris

Courtesy of the Four Seasons Hotel George V

The George V Hotel was built in 1928 and converted into a Four Seasons property in 1999 following a two-year renovation. This art-deco landmark is located in the Golden Triangle of Paris, just off the Champs-Elysees. There are 244 rooms and suites with interiors designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon. Many of the suites offer spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and surrounding areas. The property is adorned with classical French furnishings, seventeenth-century Flemish tapestries, and eighteenth-century Florentine chandeliers. Spaces are decorated with more than 9,000 flowers delivered fresh from the Netherlands each week. It has three restaurants, Le Cinq, Le George and L’Orangerie, which hold five Michelin stars among them. If you consider its exceptional dining options and legendary wine cellar, Hotel George V offers its guests one of the best culinary experiences in Europe. Amenities include a luxury spa, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, on-site boutique and courtyard. Book Now

Hotel Sacher in Vienna

Courtesy of Hotel Sacher

Culture and hospitality go hand in hand at Hotel Sacher. This classic Viennese hotel has been an important part of the city’s history since it opened in 1876. Hotel Sacher has hosted several royal patrons, including Emperor Franz Joseph, King Edward VIII, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Rainier III of Monaco, among others. In 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono used the hotel to host a press conference about Bagism, a satirical campaign about peace. The hotel has 152 rooms and suites that combine modern in-room amenities and traditional Viennese designs. Hotel Sacher’s dining options provide guests with a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes. Restaurant Rote Bar and Restaurant Grüne Bar offer both Austrian and international specialties, and the Sacher cafés are known for serving Original Sacher-Torte, a chocolate cake with apricot filling, which is still hand-made daily using Franz Sacher’s recipe from 1832. Book Now
Read More: The Ultimate Arts & Culture Guide for Vienna

Hotel Les Trois Rois in Basel

Courtesy of Hotel Les Trois Rois

Hotel Les Trois Rois is situated on the banks of the Rhine River in the heart of Basel, Switzerland’s third most populated city. The hotel’s central location is ideal for enjoying the city’s museums, galleries and theaters. Hotel Les Trois Rois has been operational since 1681 making it one of the oldest city hotels in Europe. It’s hosted numerous artists and literary giants, such as Voltaire, Charles Dickens, and Marc Chagall. In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte dined at the hotel while discussing French-Swiss relations with Basel officials. Today, its motto is “rich in history, young at heart” – a refreshing concept for a luxury property. In addition to its 101 guest rooms and suites, the hotel offers excellent dining options. Onsite restaurants and bars include Cheval Blanc by chef Peter Knogl (three Michelin stars and 19 Gault Millau points), Brasserie Les Trois Rois by chef Urs Gschwend (14 Gault Millau points), Italian restaurant Chez Donati (13 Gault Millau points), Bar Les Trois Rois and Salon du Cigare. Book Now 

The Savoy in London

Courtesy of the Savoy

The Savoy is one of the UK’s most historic luxury hotels. Situated on the River Thames within steps of Covent Garden and the West End, the Savoy is conveniently located in the heart of one of the most exciting cities in the world. From Marlene Dietrich to Marilyn Monroe, from Giacomo Puccini to George Gershwin, from Rhianna to Taylor Swift, the hotel is a favorite among the world’s most famous people. Throughout the twentieth century, the hotel was frequented by every member of the British Royal Family. It features 267 rooms and suites with either Edwardian or Art Deco design, and guests of suites are looked after by the Savoy Butlers. The hotel also offers some of the best restaurants and bars in London, such as Simpson’s in the Strand, the River Restaurant, Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill and the American Bar. Afternoon tea remains a tradition in the Thames Foyer, which turns into a lovely lounge in the evenings with live entertainment. Book Now

The Grand Hotel in St. Petersburg

Courtesy of Belmond

Situated in St. Petersburg’s Nevsky Prospekt, the Belmond Grand Hotel Europe has been attracting international travelers since it opened in 1875. With sparkling chandeliers, Art Nouveau interiors, stained glass windows, soaring ceilings and marble flooring, the Grand Hotel is certainly one of the most beautiful hotels in Europe, if not the world. It’s known for having hosted many distinguished guests, such as H. G. Wells, Igor Stravinsky and members of the Romanov dynasty. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and his wife Antonina Miliukova honeymooned at the hotel in 1877. George Bernard Shaw met Maxim Gorky at the hotel bar, and Fyodor Dostoevsky found inspiration for Crime and Punishment while lingering around the historic floor. Grigori Rasputin, a mystic who befriended the family of Nicholas II, conducted business in the alcoves of the hotel’s restaurant, L’Europe, which is one of Russia’s oldest continually-serving restaurants. The hotel was restored in the 1990s and has 266 rooms and suites. Don’t miss the fine selection of caviars and vodkas at the hotel bar. Book Now

If you enjoyed Classic City Hotels in Europe, check out other Europe-inspired articles.

Cover image: Courtesy of De L’Europe Amsterdam

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Before you decide, the awe and awful of Venice are two sides of the same coin. For example, two travelers might sit down for a cappuccino at a historic café in St. Mark’s Square. One traveler might look out over the piazza and see tourists waving selfie sticks while seagulls and pigeons fight for table scraps, and the other traveler might see a breathtaking basilica – consecrated in 1094 – with treasures from Constantinople as a result of the Venetian participation in the Fourth Crusade. After breakfast, the same two travelers could take a gondola ride through the meandering canals of Venice. One traveler might think it’s an overpriced tourist trap, while the other might think about the gondolier’s technical achievement in navigating the long, narrowboat and the pride they take in carrying on this 900-year-old tradition. These experiential differences could go on and on.

Photo by C. McCain

Visiting Venice is all about accepting that there will be give and take, more so than many other previously well-heeled European cities. Sure, Venice museums can have long lines, and there are plenty of restaurants serving terrible food, but the city also has a one-of-kind atmosphere and architectural splendor that can make it seem so perfectly authentic, it doesn’t even feel real. Venice is uniquely mysterious, particularly in the evenings with its narrow passageways, dead-end paths and misty canals. Without cars, bicycles or trains, Venice exudes an eerie sort of quietness – highly unusual for a city its size.

Photo by C. McCain

There are locals around Venice, over a quarter of a million, but they’re easily missed if you don’t make a point to notice them. Find a side street café or street-side bar window serving Aperol Spritzes and cicchetti, and you’ll see Venetians chatting with friends and family while enjoying a quick lunch or pre-dinner aperitif. Even the grocery stores and pharmacies that locals surely frequent seem a bit hidden, but the beautifully specific shops that sell quality goods, such as handmade leather gloves or locally-blown glassware, can’t be missed.

So, is Venice worth visiting? The truth is there’s no guarantee that every traveler will fall in love with Venice, now or ever. It depends on your past experiences and perspectives on life. Is it a tourist trap or one of the most beautiful cities in the world? The answer is in the eye of the beholder.

Is Venice Worth Visiting? Yes!

Check out 5 Excellent Reasons to Visit Venice, Italy.

Get Out on the Water

Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen

Venice should be seen from the water. The city offers many options at various price points to best fit your budget. From water buses to water taxis, travelers can easily access a pick-up location from boat stands and piers throughout the city. If you’re looking for a classic Venetian experience, make a point to take a gondola ride. This traditional, flat-bottomed, single-row boat has been used in Venice for centuries. It’s an elegant way to explore the city while learning about its past from knowledgeable gondoliers.

Stay in a Grand Hotel

Courtesy of the Gritti Palace

There are more than a thousand hotels in Venice, so again, many options for many budgets. If you’re looking to splurge on your vacation, book a room at the Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel located on Campo Santa Maria del Giglio. This stunning property dates back to 1475 when the Pisani family transformed it into its current Gothic shape. In 1525 the building became the private residence of the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti, and in the centuries that followed, it was home to other noble families and illustrious visitors. Today, guests can enjoy the beautiful terrazzo floors and the remarkable selection of artworks and antiques that adorn all private and social spaces within the hotel. Book Now

Another excellent option for a classic hotel in Venice is the Hotel Bauer located just a short walk from the Gritti Palace. This luxury hotel has 54 suites and 137 rooms that feature authentic Italian marble details, delicate fabrics and inlaid furniture. Don’t miss the recently renovated Settimo Cielo Rooftop Restaurant from chef Cristiano Tomei. Book Now

Courtesy of Hotel Bauer

Enjoy the Fine Arts

If you don’t mind crowds, your first fine art stop should be Doge’s Palace located next to St. Mark’s Basilica. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this museum is set on its original foundation from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. The wing towards the St. Mark’s Basin is the oldest, rebuilt from 1340 onwards. This cultural institution includes the Museo dell’Opera, Courtyard and the Loggias, Doge’s Apartments, Institutional Chambers, Prisons and Armoury. Don’t miss Il Paradiso by Tintoretto in the palace’s main hall. It’s one of the largest oil paintings on canvas in the world (22 x 7 meters).

Photo by Denys Barabanov

Other great places to see art in Venice include the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. In the evenings, La Fenice Opera House provides seasonal performances by world-class opera singers and musicians. In the nineteenth century, La Fenice became the site of many famous operatic premieres including works by Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti and Verdi. The building alone is worth a tour given its lavish Rococo-style interiors.

Courtesy of Teatro La Fenice

Eat Like a Local

Is Venice worth visiting? Yes, its food alone is worth a trip. Similar to Spanish tapas, cicchetti are small snacks, such as sandwiches, meats, cheeses and olives, served at lunch or before dinner at small bars located in every Venetian neighborhood. They are typically enjoyed while standing with an Aperol Spritz (garnished with an orange slice and a single fresh green olive) or a glass of Italian wine. Traditional cicchetti recipes include slices of bread topped with creamed codfish on polenta and boiled egg on marinated anchovies. For classic cicchetti bars in Venice, check out Bar All’Arco (lunch only) and Enoteca Schiavi.

Photos by C. McCain

Buy Quality Souvenirs

For quality souvenirs in Venice, take a short ferry ride to Murano, a collection of seven individual islands linked together by bridges in the Venetian Lagoon. There, you’ll find some of the finest glass shops and glass-making demonstrations in Italy. Murano glass is known throughout the world for its history, quality, colorfulness and craftsmanship. Don’t miss Museo del Vetro, which explores the art of glass-making through the centuries.

Photo By Dan Hadar

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The Best Classic Hotels in New York City

The Plaza Hotel

Courtesy of the Plaza Hotel

It was once said, “nothing unimportant ever happens at the Plaza.” The luxury property opened its doors in 1907 at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South. The Plaza Hotel, a Fairmont property, features 282 guest rooms, including 102 suites, as well as a variety of dining options, such as Palm Court, Champagne Bar, Rose Club, the Plaza Food Hall and Todd English at the Plaza. From its original nineteenth century construction to its $450 million dollar restoration in 2008, the Plaza might just be the most classic hotel in the world. Since its debut, the Plaza has remained a New York City icon hosting world leaders, dignitaries and film industry titans, including Truman Capote, Elizabeth Taylor, Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich. It has also serviced as the film location for some of Hollywood’s biggest hits, including Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest (1959), Sydney Pollack’s The Way We Were (1973) and Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby (2013).

The Pierre, A Taj Hotel

Courtesy of the Pierre, A Taj Hotel

The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, has been refining its signature charm since opening in 1930. Initially modeled after Versailles, architects Schultze and Weaver designed the 41-story hotel with many stately features, including neo-Georgian accents, checkered marble floors, a ballroom with grand staircases and a Rotunda with ornate murals hand-painted by American artist Edward Melcarth. The property’s 189 rooms and suites offer beautiful interiors, contemporary style and modern amenities. Located on the border of Midtown and the Upper East Side, directly across from Central Park, the Pierre is a cornerstone of New York glamour having hosted many high-profile fashion icons and film stars, including Coco Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, Hubert de Givenchy, Audrey Hepburn, Yves Saint Laurent and Barbra Streisand.

Gramercy Park Hotel

Courtesy of Gramercy Park Hotel

Gramercy Park Hotel opened its doors in 1925, and a year later, Humphrey Bogart was married on the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Not long after that, a young John F. Kennedy lived in the hotel for several months and Babe Ruth became a regular at the hotel’s New York Bar. Later, high-profile musicians began passing through the lobby or staying for months at a time giving Gramercy Park Hotel its rock and roll edge. In the 1960s, the Rolling Stones resided there after their first American tour, and Bob Dylan, the Beatles, the Clash and Bob Marley were all known to spend time in the hotel. Over the years, the property remained much the same until art collector and real estate developer Aby Rosen took over. In 2006, he enlisted artist Julian Schnabel and architect John Pawson to renovate the space in a way that would maintain its unique history while giving it bold, modern flourishes. The renovation was extensive – the entire second floor of the lobby was removed to make way for 20-foot ceilings, and Schnabel designed or curated many of the furnishings, paintings and sculptures that fill the space today.

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Courtesy of the Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Named after British essayist Thomas Carlyle, the Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel, has been a classic landmark on Madison Avenue and 76th Street since 1930. Located just one block from Central Park in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the 35-story hotel has 190 guest rooms and is surrounded by galleries, designer boutiques and fine art museums. Every American president since Harry S. Truman has visited this iconic property. With its black and white marbled lobby and Art Deco motifs in the specialty suites, the Carlyle has been meticulously maintained to honor the design inspiration of its first decorator Dorothy Draper. Don’t miss the Café Carlyle, a New York City pillar of classic cabaret entertainment. Throughout the years, it has featured performances by legendary musicians like Bobby Short, Eartha Kitt, Elaine Stritch and Debbie Harry.

Waldorf Astoria New York

Courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New York

The Waldorf Astoria New York opened in 1893 at the present site of the Empire State Building. Thirty-eight years later, the hotel moved to its current Park Avenue location. Known as the premier property of the Waldorf Astoria brand, the hotel is considered the largest private interior landmark in New York City. Conrad Hilton once referred to the Waldorf Astoria New York as, “the greatest of them all.” The Waldorf Astoria New York, a Hilton hotel, is currently undergoing a multi-year renovation, which is set to feature restored public and event spaces, 350 new guest rooms and suites and 350 residences. The hotel is also set to restore its historic items, such as the Cole Porter piano, the John F. Kennedy rocking chair and the World’s Fair Clock Tower.

The Algonquin Hotel

Courtesy of the Algonquin Hotel

The Algonquin Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott, is located on 44th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. The hotel was opened in 1902 when a single room cost $2 dollars a night. Frank Case, the hotel’s first general manager, eventually bought the hotel and continued to run it until his death in 1946. In 1923, the hotel got its first resident cat, a tradition that continues today. From 1919 until 1929, the hotel served as a lunch spot for the Algonquin Round Table, a group of New York writers, critics and actors. Notable members included Harold Ross (The New Yorker editor), George Kaufman (playwright and director), Alexander Woollcott (critic and journalist) and Brock Pemberton (Broadway producer). The round table group gathered in the Pergola Room, now called the Oak Room, a legendary cabaret nightclub.

St. Regis New York

Courtesy of the St. Regis New York

In 1904, the St. Regis New York was founded by John Jacob Astor IV, and in 1912, the hotel was inherited by Astor’s son, Victor Astor, after his untimely death during the sinking of the Titanic. St. Regis New York, now a Marriott property, overlooks Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, and it was declared a New York City Landmark in 1988. From the richly decorated rooms and designer suites to the rooftop ballroom, every element of this flagship St. Regis property was carefully considered. Don’t miss the iconic King Cole Bar where bartender Fernand Petiot invented the nation’s first modern Bloody Mary in 1934, just a year after Prohibition ended. Notable residents have included Salvador Dalí, William Paley, Nikola Tesla and John Lennon.

The Ritz-Carlton New York

Courtesy of the Ritz Carlton New York

The Ritz-Carlton New York opened in 1911 and was the first of the brand to operate in the United States. According to the New Yorker, the Ritz-Carlton’s head chef, Louis Diat, invented vichyssoise during the summer of 1917. The original recipe was published in Diat’s book titled Cooking a La Ritz. Now, the 253-room Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond Hotel. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the hotel features dining spots like Contour, a gastro lounge and the Ritz-Carlton Club® Lounge.

Sherry-Netherland Hotel

Courtesy of the Sherry-Netherland

Since opening in 1927, the Sherry-Netherland is located on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 59th Street at the entrance to Central Park. This classic New York City hotel was developed by Louis Sherry and Lucius Boomer and designed by Schultze & Weaver in a neo-Romanesque and Renaissance style. All accommodations feature high ceilings, marble bathrooms, with some featuring the original pedestal sinks with silver-plated faucets from the 1920s. Harry Cipriani, the hotel’s restaurant is a near duplicate of the famed Harry’s Bar in Venice, which re-opened in May 2007 after a $3 million renovation. The mural on the lobby’s ceiling was inspired by Raphael’s frescoes, the Loggetta of Cardinal Bibbiena, in the Vatican Palace. In 1989, the hotel was featured in the film New York Stories as the location for Francis Ford Coppola’s Life Without Zoe.

The New York EDITION

Courtesy of New York EDITION

The New York EDITION, located on Madison Avenue in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, is situated in the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tower from 1909. The hotel features luxury boutique accommodations with 273 guest rooms and suites with excellent views of Madison Square Park and the Empire State Building. The Clocktower, a Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Jason Atherton, can be found on the hotel’s second floor. The menu features modern cuisine with British influences.

If you enjoyed the What Are the Best Classic Hotels in New York City, check out other hotel-related articles.

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How to Spend 48 Hours Exploring San Diego

Courtesy of sandiego.org

Day One in San Diego

Morning at the Beach

Start your vacation with a relaxing trip to the beach. San Diego is divided into six beach regions, including Coronado, La Jolla, Mission Bay and Beaches, North County Coastal, South Bay and Point Loma, Harbor Island and Shelter Island. Generally speaking, you can’t really go wrong with any of them, and if time allows, its best to check out a few, since each one has its own unique vibe.

Coronado Beach, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Brett Shoaf

If you only have one day to play in the ocean, check out Coronado Beach. This area offers quintessential views of the coastline making it perfect for first-time visitors. Find a nice spot near the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which was featured in the 1959 classic film “Some Like It Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis. From swimming to surfing, there are plenty of family-friendly beach activities to keep busy. Take a break from the water with a stroll along Orange Avenue to explore the shops and restaurants. Then, stop for a pint of beer at Coronado Brewing Company. Coronado is also a popular stop on the Old Town Trolley Tour and can be accessed from downtown using the Coronado Ferry or a water taxi.

La Jolla, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo Joanne DiBona

La Jolla Cove Beach is another excellent choice for enjoying the water, sand and sun in San Diego. La Jolla is a beautiful seaside village with relaxed high-end style. The surrounding area offers luxury shopping and plenty of fine dining options.

Afternoon Enjoying Fish Tacos

A trip to San Diego would not be complete without sampling the fish tacos. Inspired by Mexico’s Baja region, this dish is traditionally made using lightly-battered fish and corn tortillas topped with cabbage, fresh salsa, cream sauce and a lime wedge. For excellent fish tacos, check out George’s at the Cove, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood and the Taco Stand.

Oscar’s Tacos, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Christian Martinez

Evening in the Gaslamp Quarter

Once home to San Diego’s red light district in the late 1800s, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historical section of downtown. Now, this neighborhood, covering 16 ½ blocks, offers more than 100 restaurants, 90 historic buildings, 40 bars and nightclubs and 100 retail shops, as well as theaters and art galleries. The Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect spot to enjoy an evening out on the town. You’ll find some of San Diego’s best restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter. Check out Searsucker for new American comfort food by chef Brian Malarkey, former finalist on Bravo’s Top Chef 3 Miami. Also, Rustic Root is an excellent option for delicious food, specialty cocktails and a rooftop bar.

Courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Melanie Stocker

Day Two in San Diego

Morning in Balboa Park

Take a break from the beach with a trip to Balboa Park. This centrally located area features museums, galleries, performing arts venues and the San Diego Zoo. There are 17 museums in the park, including the San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air & Space Museum and San Diego Automotive Museum. The park also features the Spanish Village Art Center, a cluster of buildings and courtyards built in 1935 to resemble a Spanish-style town. Today, this area features studio and gallery spaces for more than 250 artists. Visitors can tour some of the art spaces, view art demonstrations and talk with local artists.

Balboa Park, courtesy of sandiego.org

Afternoon Enjoying Local Beer 

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station celebrates the venue’s prior history as a U.S. Navy mess hall, while introducing new industrial and organic features. Known for having bold, flavorful and largely hop-centric beers, Stone Brewing has earned a global following of dedicated fans. Their expansive Liberty Station restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining and bars, as well as a bocce ball court, outdoor cinema space and garden. The bar features 40 taps of craft beers, including Stone Brewing’s year-round and special release selections. The drink menu also features an extensive bottle list of craft and specialty beers from around the world.

Courtesy of Stone Brewing Co.

Evening in Old Town

Visitors should also spend some time in Old Town, one of San Diego’s oldest settled areas. Now, Old Town is home to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park. Make sure to visit Old Town on an empty stomach, since this neighborhood is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Old Town restaurants offer plenty of delicious food and tequila-infused cocktails. Check out El Agave, a second-floor hacienda-style eatery serving classic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Other notable dining options include Café Coyote and Tahona Bar.

Cafe Coyote; photo courtesy of NAV Productions and sandiego.org

If you enjoyed How to Spend 48 Hours Exploring San Diego, check out 48 hours in San Francisco and 48 hours in New Orleans.

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“Liverpool is full of the kind of people who go out on a Monday, and couldn’t care less about Tuesday morning.” – George Harrison

Courtesy of Marketing Liverpool

The Beatles Story

The Beatles Story tells the history of the Beatles from formation to separation. Located near the UNESCO World heritage waterfront at the Royal Albert Dock, the museum takes visitors on an immersive journey through the lives, times, culture and music of the Beatles. The Beatles Story’s permanent collection features authentic memorabilia, such as original instruments, clothing, John Lennon’s spectacles, Ringo Starr’s drum kit, rare album sleeves, never-before-seen photography and original handwritten lyrics. Free audio guides provide information, pictures and video interviews narrated by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and John Lennon’s sister, Julia Baird.

Courtesy of Marketing Liverpool

The Beatles’ Childhood Homes

The Beatles’ Childhood Homes Tour takes visitors inside Mendips, the childhood home of John Lennon, and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood home of Paul McCartney. The National Trust, an independent charity for environmental and heritage conservation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, offers the only tour that lets visitors get a peek of the interiors. These two small houses in suburban Liverpool are where John and Paul grew up, practiced their music and wrote some of the first Beatles songs, including Please Please Me, I Call Your Name and She Loves You. It is strongly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Note, the houses are closed for winter conservation work until March 4, 2020, and the weekly schedule varies depending on the season.

Mendips – Photo by C. McCain

Fab 4 Taxi Tours

If you’re looking to avoid a large coach bus tour, check out the Fab 4 Taxi Tours for a personalized way to experience all the major Liverpool sites connected to the Beatles. Drivers act as personal tour guides sharing interesting stories and trivia about the city and band. In between stops, visitors are encouraged to sing along to their favorite Beatles songs. The tour includes visits to the childhood homes of all four band members (exteriors only), Penny Lane (and barber shop), Strawberry Field, Eleanor Rigby’s tombstone and the location where John and Paul were said to have first met in 1957. Tours range in length from 2 to 5 hours, and drivers make pick-ups at most downtown hotels. The tour price is based on the car hire, not per person, so it’s the same price for passengers one through six.

Photo by C. McCain

Philharmonic Pub

Known as ‘the most ornate pub in England,’ the Philharmonic Pub, located in Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter, is a great place to stop for a pint after a long day of sightseeing. This Nicholson’s Pub was constructed between 1898 and 1900 by architect Walter W. Thomas, and it was designed to be a stylish gentlemen’s club. According to the BBC, the Philharmonic Dining Rooms is the first purpose-built Victorian pub in England to be given Grade I status. The Phil is located just a stones-throw away from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, as well as the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, a school founded by Paul McCartney and Mark Featherstone-Witty. It’s location makes it a long-time favorite with concert-goers, artists and musicians alike.

Courtesy of Historic England

Paul McCartney would frequent the Phil as a young man and even performed there on occasion. And, in 2018, he made a triumphant return for a surprise show filmed by the Late Late Show with James Corden. Paul preformed A Hard Day’s Night, Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da, Love Me Do, Back in the USSR and Hey Jude. Check out the full video, including Carpool Karaoke with Paul and James driving around the streets of Liverpool.

The Cavern Club

The Beatles performed at the Cavern Club in Liverpool 292 times between February 9, 1961 and August 3, 1963. Today, fans can relive the early days with the Cavern Club Beatles, a convincing tribute band. This group of local musicians has mastered the iconic look and sound of the Beatles. Throughout the year, the Cavern Club Beatles play an ‘all – era’ theatre-style show on Saturdays in the Cavern Live Lounge, as well as a more relaxed show on Fridays. During the summer, they perform a ‘greatest hits’ show on Sundays. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for the Saturday evening performance.

Photo by C. McCain

Hard Days Night Hotel

Located in the heart of Liverpool, Hard Days Night Hotel is the world’s only Beatles-inspired hotel. This Millennium property is housed in a Grade II building from 1884. All 110 guest rooms are individually designed around the contours of the original building, and the décor features specially commissioned Beatles-inspired artwork.

Courtesy of Hard Days Night Hotel

Check out the hotel’s lounge for a final drink after a show at the neighboring Cavern Club. The Lounge and Bar features one of the hotel’s ‘must see’ images, a photo taken on Childwall Fiveways of the Merseybeat groups of the 60s, which includes the Beatles. Guests can also view artifacts, pictures, books and poems associated with the Beatles.

If you liked The Beatles Guide to Liverpool, check out other articles about Europe.

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