Why Lithuania is your perfect summer escape for quiet luxury
With direct flights from Dubai to Vilnius, or via major European hubs, Lithuania's charming capital is just a few hours away. Lithuania will welcome you with lush forests, pristine lakes, historic cities, and a touch of quiet luxury in every detail.
As Ramūnas Davidonis, Lithuania's Ambassador to the UAE, puts it, 'Lithuania is where nature, culture, and innovation meet. For visitors from the Gulf, it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the refreshing beauty of Europe, far from the crowds, and experience warm hospitality in a refreshing climate. Whether you're seeking wellness, heritage, or new adventures – Lithuania invites you with open arms.'
Europe's cool secret
Ranked as the 2nd best destination in the world by Lonely Planet for 2025, Lithuania is gaining recognition for its vibrant cities, untouched landscapes, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Summer here brings long, sunlit days, mild temperatures (20–25°C), and lush, green surroundings.
Whether hiking through serene national parks, exploring medieval castles, or enjoying a quiet coffee in one of Lithuania's charming squares, the country's tranquil energy quickly captures the heart. It's the ideal blend of natural beauty and cultural allure.
Vilnius: Green, smart, stylish, and luxurious
Vilnius, named the European Green Capital for 2025, stands as a testament to Lithuania's commitment to sustainability and green living. With over 60% of the city covered in green spaces, it's a rare fusion of urban luxury and natural beauty. For a unique perspective, take to the skies in a hot air balloon – Vilnius is one of the few European capitals where this experience is possible.
For those in search of the finest luxuries, Lithuania is an ideal destination. Stay in 5-star hotels, indulge in exclusive spa retreats, and savor world-class Michelin-starred dining. Lithuania's blend of rich cultural heritage and contemporary luxury ensures a premium experience that rivals the best of Europe's celebrated capitals.
The culinary scene is flourishing, with Lithuania's debut in the Michelin Guide in 2024, boasting four Michelin-starred restaurants and over two dozen culinary gems. Expect inventive menus, local ingredients, and impeccable service – perfect for those with a taste for the finest things in life.
A country of celebration and character
Lithuania is a land of festivals and traditions, with celebrations sprinkled throughout the year. From Midsummer bonfires to the iconic pink soup season, Lithuania is a place where culture comes alive. Explore vibrant street art trails, quirky neighborhoods like Užupis, and picturesque lakeside villages. Every corner of Lithuania offers something personal, making it the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
12 hours ago
- Zawya
Private Selection Hotels & Tours expands globally with GMH alliance
Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH) has announced an investment in Private Selection Hotels & Tours (PSH), with over 50 properties in Switzerland and Europe, to secure a 51% majority stake. This investment prepares the luxury and boutique hotel portfolio for international expansion as a strategic partner to the Swiss Hospitality Collection, said a statement. Following a long-established cooperation, Private Selection Hotels & Tours (PSH) will retain its content and personnel autonomy. As part of GMH, PSH now benefits from increased market presence and new strategic perspectives through partnership with the Swiss Hospitality Collection (SHC) which aims to build a powerful network that combines international reach with a deeply rooted culture of hospitality. Private Selection Hotels & Tours contributes two key pillars to the alliance: first, a premium cooperation model for owner-managed hotels with high standards of service, authenticity, and sustainability; second, a specialised tour operating segment offering curated travel experiences – from individual self-guided itineraries to guided cultural and nature-based tours. This is supported by a dedicated call and service center, whose shared-service offerings will now also be available to all Grand Metropolitan Hotels brands. For GMH member hotels, this alliance brings three major advantages: An integrated loyalty ecosystem, where business points earned at Grand Metropolitan city hotels can be transformed into leisure experiences at Private Selection destinations; joint sales and technology platforms will enhance reach, visibility, and direct booking potential; centralised back-office structures also enable greater efficiency and create new opportunities for marketing and brand development – with Swiss precision and international finesse. 'We are very much looking forward to the collaboration and the trust placed in us. With Private Selection Hotels & Tours, we are adding over 50 unique, independently managed top-tier properties to our portfolio. Through our global sales network, a shared loyalty currency, and scalable tech platforms, we are opening up additional revenue channels for each partner hotel – from mid-week business to premium leisure. At the same time, the strong 'Private Selection' brand and the unique DNA of each property remain intact while gaining increased international visibility,' says Martin R Smura, Chairman of the Board and President of Grand Metropolitan Hotels. This new alliance not only creates one of the most powerful hotel groups and co-operations in Switzerland, but also establishes an international network committed to selective growth, partnership, heightened guest experiences, and sustainable value creation, said the statement. Copyright 2025 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
What's On
15 hours ago
- What's On
Restaurant review: The Bombay Club
We stepped into The Bombay Club at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab with clear expectations, and left with something more. The space is warm and intimate, with an open kitchen and a tandoori oven that's part of the art of Indian cooking itself. Led by Chef Manav Tuli, the menu honours Bombay's culinary roots with dishes that feel familiar but offer a contemporary take on the classics. Great Indian food is rich, spiced, layered, vibrant, fragrant, smoky, and hearty, and The Bombay Club knows how to bring it all together. The spot Image: Supplied You'll find The Bombay Club on the ground floor of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. It's dimly lit, wood-heavy and high on retro. The kind of place that feels like a hidden Bombay retreat, with vintage charm and art details throughout. There's a show kitchen in one corner, with a tandoori oven that adds warmth and a homey feel. It's lively, but still feels intimate, just as suited to a laid-back dinner with friends as it is to a quiet date night. The vibe There's a quiet confidence here. It's not trying to be trendy, which makes it even more special. It feels like someone's retro-style home with a refined touch of chic interiors, giving off an elegant yet comfortable vibe. The food Image: Supplied The Bombay Club's menu is a mix of Bombay street food favourites, but it also dives deeper into regional specialties from Goa, Hyderabad, and other parts of India. The dishes showcase India's diverse flavours, with rich spices and authentic recipes that are perfect for sharing. The service Images: Supplied The team knows their stuff. Expect smart recommendations. They'll also share facts about the food's origin or spice mix if you ask. There's a sense of storytelling behind the menu in a way that connects you to where the food comes from. What to order Images: Supplied Chef Manav Tuli, known for his work at Hong Kong's Michelin-starred Chaat, brings a focused, heritage-led approach to Indian cooking. The menu explores the flavours of Bombay through the lens of India's royal kitchens; rich and perfect to share. Starters include the chutney set (sweet lime, tomato, mint, beetroot, chili), the signature guinea fowl samosa, keema pav with soft milk buns, and tiger prawns in a punchy Goan balchao. From the tandoor, there's chicken sooley, wagyu beef cheek, Konkani lamb chop, and a standout chestnut paneer tikka. Mains include a perfectly creamy smoked butter chicken, while the Hyderabadi dal and naan basket round things out. The Masala Chai is the ideal finish; sweet, soothing, and just perfect after a hearty meal. What's on the bill Prices lean towards the premium side. Starters sit around Dhs80–Dhs120, tandoor mains range from Dhs98–Dhs218. It's a special spot that works just as well for a date night as it does for a dinner with friends or when you want to take someone visiting the city somewhere special. The final say A solid new addition to Dubai's Indian dining scene – comforting, vibrant, and rich, all in a stunning setting, and it's here to stay. What's On verdict Everything at The Bombay Club works in sync, the food, the space, the service, the atmosphere. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves Indian food. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation for it. Location: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Ground Floor, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai Times: Daily from 6.30pm to 11.30pm Contact: (800) 323 232, @
What's On
18 hours ago
- What's On
Stay like royalty: 8 palaces turned luxury hotels around the world
Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg Schloss Bensberg in Bergisch Gladbach in West Germany is known worldwide as a luxury hotel. It was formerly a princely hunting lodge but sadly, its owners did not live to see its completion. Today it is one of the world's leading hotels and event locations. For those checking in, besides enjoying the extraordinary castle panorama nestled in the midst of the tranquillity of Bergisches Land, there's also excellent Michelin-starred cuisine and the 4 elements spa by Althoff. As for the rooms, they come together wonderfully blending stylish elements with historical flair. For art lovers, the castle has built up a collection with works by Markus Lüpertz, Antoni Tàpies, Joseph Beuys, Georg Baselitz, AR Penck, Wilhelm Beestermöller, Wolfgang Stahr and Salvadore Dalí. The castle is located just 15 minutes away from the Cologne airport and in close proximity to the metropolises of Cologne and Düsseldorf. Find out more information and book here. @schlossbensberg Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, Turkey Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is an iconic symbol of the city, and it comes with an extraordinary history. It dates back to the 17th century and was originally a waterside villa and marble palace that became the royal residence. Fast-forward to 1910, and the palace was destroyed by a fire in 1910. It remained unused until it was reopened as a hotel by Kempinski Hotels in 1991. It is home to a total of 317 rooms and suites plus restaurants and bars that offer a blissful culinary experience. It also hosts the city's high-profile meetings and congresses, weddings, and social events. It is the only Ottoman imperial palace and hotel on the Bosphorus. The spa is worth a visit, but beyond this, head to the infinity outdoor pool that offers guests the feeling of floating on the Bosphorus. Find out more information and book here. @cpkempinski Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo is a palace with over 150 years of history. It has seen the passing of several princely dynasties of Monaco. It underwent a complete renovation in 2019 and is located just adjacent to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, a spot to which it owes its fame. Inside, there are three restaurants, including Alain Ducasse's mythical Louis XV, a three star restaurant in the Michelin guide. It has 208 rooms and suites, but nothing can get more luxurious than the Prince Rainier III suite. In its 600-square-meter space, there is an exclusive large terrace, and private infinity pool that overlooks the Casino square. On the top floor is the Monte-Carlo Spa and its Wellness Sky Club, a spot every wellness seeker should visit. It offers beauty rituals and massages, but you can also enjoy the pool, solarium, sauna, steam room and whirlpool. Find out more information and book here. @hoteldeparismc Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Malta Xara Palace is now a five-star hotel housed inside a beautifully restored 17th-century palazzo. It is perched on centuries-old bastions and surrounded by stunning baroque architecture, so history fans will cherish a stay here. Its 17 luxurious accommodations are dotted with antique furniture and paintings and offer stunning views. The palace opened in 1999 but has an interesting history all linked to the history of Mdina. Its walls even form part of the bastion walls that surround the hilltop city. Xara Palace was built in the 17th century and served as a residence for the noble family, Moscati Parisio. It has been meticulously restored and now operates as a hotel, offering a glimpse into the family's opulent past. Now, it also offers a Michelin-starred restaurant – the de Mondion which offers breathtaking views of the island, and a casual restaurant, Trattoria AD 1530 in the Piazza at the front of the hotel. It's also a stunning venue for weddings, a honeymoon, a cultural stay, or an exclusive getaway. Find out more information and book here.
