The pretty Portuguese city named Europe's best destination for a girls' trip
Isn't it great when the girls trip doesn't just make it out of the group chat, but also when you happen to have landed in the perfect city for the occasion – with fun bars, a lively, friendly atmosphere, lip-smacking food and (fingers crossed) some sun all in abundance?
Well, handily a new study by Titan Travel has shed some light on where it would be best to head so you can properly make the most of your weekend, and the results are in. The platform factored in characteristics such as walkability, free attractions, landmarks and top-tier places to eat and drink. Topping their ranking? The pretty, hilly city of Porto.
That's right, Portugal's fabulous second city claimed the top spot in the study, scoring a solid 8.68 out of 10. There are apparently 89 spas and wellness centres on offer, as well as plenty of vibey places to go for a dance. Then there's the fact that it's generally a pretty safe city with a mild climate, is walkable, and has loads of incredible wine and food. Port tonic, anyone?
In second place was Florence, which scored 8.09 out of 10. The company described the Tuscan city as a 'must-see for culture' – we certainly agree with that – as well as where 'food takes centre stage'.
In third place was Edinburgh, with a score of 8. According to the study, 'If you're in the mood for a casual lunch or dressing up for somewhere fancy, Edinburgh stands out from the rest with 181 pubs and clubs and a solid range of dining options.'
These are the best cities for a girls' trip, according to Titan Travel
Porto
Florence
Edinburgh
Bordeaux
Lisbon
Amsterdam
Prague
Athens
Venice
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The Herald Scotland
2 days ago
- The Herald Scotland
I discovered a fascinating link between Scotland and the art of Siena
Siena, helped by its position on the Via Francigena, an important pilgrim and trade route to Rome, had risen as a centre of culture as well as of commerce after it defeated its rival Florence in 1260. Architecture and art in all forms flourished and Sienese painters, originally influenced by byzantine art, began to move away from stylized and devotional representations towards more secular, narrative portrayals. Some feature skilfully executed architecture, many are decorative and lyrical and others notable for the expressive and poetic faces. For those not lucky enough to be able to visit Siena, the exhibition Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300 - 1350 running at the National Gallery, London until June 22 contains fine examples. The artists included the Lorenzetti brothers and Simone Martini but it was undoubtedly Duccio who was the master. Fresco by Pinturicchio in the Piccolomini Library showing Aneas Silvius Piccolomino meeting King James I of Scotland (Image: unknown) It was in recognition that he had created something superb that the procession of the Maestà was arranged. To show it off it did not however, take the direct route to the cathedral but a more circuitous one and I realised that by following it, even today I would discover much of the art and architecture for which Siena is famous. The procession in fact headed straight down to the newly built Piazza del Campo which the year before had hosted the very first Palio, the horse race which still takes place every summer. It is a unique scallop-shaped space of great charm which, then as now, quickly established itself as the heart of Siena. Sheltered by tall imposing buildings and edged with cafes, there are fewer more pleasant places to sit and relax. Within the piazza is the town hall, the Palazzo Pubblico, an impressive example of medieval/gothic civic architecture. This was commissioned by The Nine, the governing body of the city, together with a series of magnificent frescoes still to be found in almost every room. The most outstanding are the enormous Allegories of Good and Bad Government painted in 1338 by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, which not only reminded citizens of the importance of good governance and the potential consequences of bad decisions but also provide us today with an unparalleled glimpse of 14th century Tuscan life. Piazza del Campo (Image: Visit Tuscany) Here too in the Sala del Mappamondo is Simone Martini's Maestà painted just after Duccio's as well as his fresco portrait of the mounted warlord Giudoricco da Fogiano, between the castles he had conquered, resplendent in the same striking livery as his horse. This is one of the first truly secular paintings created with both realism and imagination. From the Piazza the procession did not have far to travel to the cathedral but the followers may not have seen all its wonders as we do today because it took many years to complete. Conversely, if we want to see Duccio's Maestà now (many Sienese art works were lent to the London exhibition but this one remained firmly at home) we need to cross over to the Museo dell'Opera Metropolitana. There I sat quietly and contemplated the glorious masterpiece which, although stripped of some predellas and smaller paintings, still finds itself 714 years later at (almost) its original location. It remained on the high altar for some years and was then moved around the cathedral several times before being dismembered and sections sold off in the eighteenth century. It was moved to its present location in 1878 and now some 33 of the smaller sections are found in 10 collections in I 5 countries. Hotel Duomo in Siena (Image: Hotel Duomo) Before leaving the cathedral complex, I entered the Piccolomini Library where I came upon a fascinating link between Siena and Scotland. Amongst the frescos painted by Pinturicchio around 1505 there is one depicting King James 1 of Scotland receiving Aeneas Silivius Piccolmini, the future Pope Pius II. The king sits enthroned under a loggia surrounded by courtiers but there is nothing remotely Scottish about this rather enchanting scene. The style of the clothing is entirely Italian and the background, a lake on which a gondola-like boat sails, is as different from the Firth of Forth as one can imagine. Yet such a meeting did occur. In 1335 Aenaes Silvius, aged 30, did go to meet the Scottish monarch in Edinburgh on a mysterious diplomatic mission. He had many adventures including a shipwreck - he also got a Sienese lady pregnant…Later, another famous Scotsman, James Boswell while ostensibly looking at art on his Grand Tour also had several dalliances in Siena and was in fact the love object of Girolama Piccolomino, a situation from which he apparently, 'beat a hasty retreat.' Read more Of course Siena has much more to offer than art; there are numerous excellent restaurants: La Taverna del Capitano, Enoteca I Terzi, Ristorante il Particolare, Ristorante San Desidero and Ristorante il Tufo were amongst those wherein I enjoyed good local dishes. There are also all the smart shops one expects from a thriving Italian city but why not take the opportunity in this city so imbued with art, to buy enduring treasures from local artist and crafts people? A complete list of artisans can be found at For truly exquisite paintings ( expensive but worth it considering work involved) Chiara Perinetti Casoni together with her brother Paolo, use the old traditional techniques of wood, egg tempera and gilding to produce both copies and enchanting original works which capture the essence of the Sienese masters. Several other people including Marco Caratelli, offer similar works Siena is not only a beautiful city in itself but the visitor will find within it a unique treasure trove of beautiful things to enjoy. Duccio 's Maestà (Image: free) FACT BOX Patricia Cleveland-Peck travelled to Florence courtesy of Vueling Airlines. Flights from Edinburgh connect via Barcelona. She was hosted by Tuscany Official Tourism She stayed at the Hotel Duomo, Siena Thanks too to the Comune di Siena, Councillor Mrs Vanna Giunti and Veronika Wobbe. Also to the city guides, Giulia, Lucovica and Anna
The Independent
6 days ago
- The Independent
Best luxury hotels in Lisbon 2025 for a chic city break, from butler service to Michelin-starred meals
Lisbon is quickly becoming the go-to city for a luxurious European getaway, and it's easy to see why. While it's no longer the budget destination it once was, the Portuguese capital still offers a stylish city break at prices more accessible than other capitals like Paris or London. With centuries of history leaving behind a legacy of palaces, palacetes, and noble mansions, many of which have been restored into luxe lodgings, the city combines old-world charm with modern luxury. Whether you're seeking a food-forward hotel with Michelin-star dining, a whimsical boutique stay, or a wine-themed journey through Lisbon 's rich history, the city caters well to those with a taste for the finer things in life. Throw in family-friendly options for urban adventurers and decadent spas for pure relaxation, and you've got the perfect destination for a blow-the-budget trip. Best luxury hotels in Lisbon 2025 At a glance Lisbon's luxury scene offers plenty of scope for lording it up, such as complimentary wine tasting at Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel Lucy Bryson, destination expert Best luxury hotels in Lisbon 2025 1. Torel Palace Lisbon hotel Lisbon's luxury scene offers plenty of scope for lording it up in historic buildings, but Torel Palace delivers what few others can – some of the city's most spectacular views without the crowds or leg-burning climb. This five-star retreat, spread across four historic buildings including two early 1900s palaces, sits right beside the 19th-century Ascensor da Lavra, the city's oldest funicular, which whisks guests to and from Avenida da Liberdade. Enjoy the view from the two outdoor pools, the terrace at Black Pavillion restaurant, or by braving the winding staircase to the top of the gleaming Torel Tower – once Lisbon's highest point. By night, take a seat by the open kitchen to watch skilled chefs work their magic at the intimate Michelin-starred 2Monkeys chef's table restaurant, or relax at the hammam-equipped spa. Oh, and keep an eye out for the regal presence of hotel cat Dona Chica as you explore her domain. 2. Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel A stay at this artfully restored 1747 palace combines three of Lisbon's most alluring features – rich history, lively nightlife, and excellent wine. Front rooms face São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the River Tagus and São Jorge Castle, while back rooms overlook vibrant Bairro Alto (thankfully with superior soundproofing). Every guest enjoys a complimentary wine tasting, setting the tone for a vinho-focused stay. The building's remarkable survival following the 1755 earthquake reveals itself in preserved 18th-century tiles and frescoes, while Federico restaurant serves sophisticated Portuguese-French fusion cuisine. Wine enthusiasts can continue their grape-based indulgence with treatments at the adjacent Caudalie spa. 3. Bairro Alto Hotel Sophisticated but far from stuffy, the Leading Hotels of the World-affiliated Bairro Alto Hotel occupies an 18th-century building that once housed the Grand Hôtel de L'Europe. A 2019 renovation, led by Pritzker Prize-winner Eduardo Souto de Moura, restored its historic façade and expanded the hotel across an entire block. Its 87 rooms, including 22 suites, are both deeply comfortable and supremely stylish, but while most have sweeping city views, it's hard to compete with those from the rooftop bar. After a sundowner (try the Mouraria cocktail) BAHR restaurant delivers Michelin-recommended Portuguese cuisine, and the wellness centre offers deeply pampering treatments to soothe limbs tired by climbing Lisbon's seven hills. 4. Casa do Barão hotel Don't be fooled by the reasonable rates or discreet residential street location – the sturdy front door of Casa do Barão conceals luxuries rarely found in central Lisbon. This artfully restored hideaway greets guests with the aroma of freshly baked cakes and the scent of lavender and jasmine drifting from its secluded garden, complete with an inviting dipping pool. The property doubles as a miniature gallery, showcasing treasures from the owners' Brazilian adventures alongside works by notable Portuguese artists such as Vhils. Many light-filled rooms feature covered balconies or vast private terraces perfect for surveying surrounding rooftops and neighbouring gardens. Enjoy breakfast on the sunny terrace, sip port in the well-stocked library, or step out to explore sophisticated Chiado or bustling Bairro Alto – both just moments away. 5. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon If money is no object, consider a stay at Lisbon's most unabashedly glamorous hotel. Surrounded by designer boutiques on the well-heeled Avenida da Liberdade, this glittering establishment houses one of Portugal's largest private collections of mid-century Portuguese art, including Almada Negreiros' stunning Centaur tapestries. The hotel is a treat for foodies, with Michelin-starred Cura offering fine dining tasting menus, while neighbouring Kabuki has also earned a star for Japanese dishes showcasing the freshest Portuguese seafood. You can burn off a night's gastronomic adventures with laps in the 18-meter pool, jog around the rooftop running track with panoramic city views, and hush any thoughts about your spiralling credit card bill with soothing sessions at the zen-like spa. 6. Hotel das Amoreiras Tucked away on a leafy residential square shaded by mulberry trees and Lisbon's 16th-century Aqueduct, this cosy , chic spot opened in 2022 following the meticulous restoration of two 18th-century townhouses. The striking bottle-green tiled facade and Small Luxury Hotels of the World plaque hint at the stylish interiors within. This boutique bolthole features memorable touches like enormous walk-in showers and an in-room tea service. Far enough from crowds to feel like an escape, yet close enough to bars, restaurants and attractions to explore without endless cab rides. The à la carte breakfasts are a leisurely affair, and the neighbourhood square allows frazzled parents to enjoy a drink from the traditional kiosk while children play in the park. Child-free guests might prefer a margarita in the hotel's slick mirrored bar or exploring nearby Bairro Alto and Principe Real. 7. The Ivens hotel Nobody could accuse this 2022 addition to Lisbon's luxury hotel scene of taking itself too seriously. In affluent Chiado, The Ivens – named after Portuguese explorer Roberto Ivens – embraces a spirit of adventure with a jungle-themed lobby, macaw motifs, and safari-style staff uniforms that tend to be a big hit with junior urban explorers. It's part of Marriott's Autograph Collection of independent hotels, and it's clear that the more staid parent company has let the Ivens' design team have full control over the hotel's interiors. The 86 rooms blend plush comfort with tropical fever dream décor, while Rocco, its hip Italian dining space, spans a crudo bar, an acclaimed Italian restaurant, and a flamboyant gastrobar with a dedicated negroni menu. 8. The Vintage Hotel & Spa A fragrant subterranean spa, a hidden rooftop bar, and a secluded location overlooking Lisbon's botanical gardens make this luxury boutique hotel feel like a true find. As the name suggests, the décor is pure retro-chic – think jewel-toned velvets, vintage radios, and statement mid-century furnishings. Rooms lean into the theme, with wooden hostess trolleys stocked for the perfect G&T, though the bartenders at the breezy V Rooftop Bar may outshine your efforts. It all feels like stepping into another era, but contemporary bars, restaurants, and the designer boutiques of Avenida da Liberdade – Lisbon's answer to the Champs-Élysées – are just a short stroll away. Address: R. Rodrigo da Fonseca 2, 1250-191 Lisboa 9. Palácio do Governador hotel Once home to the Governor of Belém Tower, this 16th-century palace offers luxurious accommodation just steps from the Tower itself and the grand Jerónimos Monastery. Roman ruins discovered during renovation have been thoughtfully incorporated into the hotel's design. Sip a poolside cocktail beneath enormous palms or dive into one of Lisbon's most impressive underground spas – a 1,200-square-metre playground of heated pools, dual cascading waterfalls and icy fountains. Foodies can enjoy excellent Portuguese-Asian dining without the crowds of downtown at on-site restaurant Po Tat, and it's just a short walk to join the queue at Pastéis de Belém, where locals have been getting their custard tart fix since 1837. 10. Hotel Pestana Palace When Lisbon house prices surged dramatically in 2017, locals liked to (half) joke that it was all the fault of Madonna, who spent six months at this beyond-grand restored palace while house hunting that same year. This 19th-century National Monument set between Belém and central Lisbon offers four Royal Suites, where Madonna and her entourage stayed, complete with butler service. The remaining 177 rooms, 13 suites and regally furnished shared spaces aren't too shabby either, and guests can dine at the suitably lavish on-site Valle Flôr restaurant before whiling away days – or months – in the manicured gardens, complete with outdoor pool (the heated indoor pool is an enticing rainy day alternative). Address: R. Jau 54, 1300-314 Lisboa Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert travel writers, each with a deep knowledge of the destinations they cover. Our contributors either live in these locations or visit frequently, ensuring a personal and informed perspective. When picking which hotels to include, they consider their own experience staying in the hotels and evaluate location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller.
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The Independent
6 days ago
- The Independent
The best Pride celebrations in Europe, from DJs and drag queens in Lisbon to street parties in Stockholm
With Pride season fast approaching, you might be wondering where to head to for sequins, sunshine and serious fun this summer. Expedia's Summer Travel Outlook survey recently revealed that 54 per cent of LGBT+ Brits plan to attend a Pride event this year. For city breaks, the travel booking site found that Amsterdam, Paris and Barcelona were the most sought-after destinations, while London, Brighton and Manchester were considered the most LGBT+ welcoming in the UK by those surveyed. So, where are the best parties, celebrations and events taking place in Europe? From Berlin to Brighton, these cities are proudly wearing the rainbow flag this summer. So if you plan to party hard this Pride season, choose one (or more) of these headline events. Lisbon When: 21 June 2025 Unlike Madrid, Berlin and other Prides with huge international followings, the Portuguese capital's Arraial Lisboa Pride flies under the queer radar; but that's set to change with it being upgraded to this year's EuroPride (the continent's highest-profile Pride event). Even with this boost in its fortunes, Lisbon Pride remains on the smaller side. The advantage is that, unlike better-known Prides that sprawl across their host cities, Lisbon keeps things convenient and compact. The focus falls squarely on waterfront Praça do Comércio, which stages an open-air party that's plenty of fun without being chaotic: all the DJs and drag queens you might expect, but balanced with laid-back Lisbon flair. Later, head up to the Bairro Alto neighbourhood for the afterparty; then retreat to the adjoining Principle Real to bed down at The Vintage: a boutique hotel whose rooftop bar is a great place to unwind with post-party cocktails. Madrid When: 6 July 2025 If you subscribe to the mantra 'go big or go home', Madrid Pride (Orgullo Madrid) is for you. Held each year in early July, this is Europe's largest Pride event, drawing upwards of two million revellers to the Spanish capital. Perhaps that's no surprise – after all, Spain is one of the continent's most LGBT+-friendly travel destinations – but there's a sizzling sense of energy that makes Madrid Pride unique. The week-long event takes over the city centre with concerts, cultural happenings and sideshows such as the High Heel Race, culminating with a massive parade (and an even larger afterparty). The Chueca gaybourhood is the celebration's beating heart, so do yourself a favour and stay as close to the action as possible. Choose Axel Hotel Madrid (the Axel chain was created specifically for the LGBTQ+ community) for its rooftop swimming pool and speakeasy-style basement bar. Berlin When: 26 July, 2025 Though smaller, Berlin's Pride (or CSD, which stands for Christopher Street Day) is in some ways even wilder, as you might expect from a city where all-night parties are a way of life. The event is a powerful mix of parade, demonstration and celebration, where the festive atmosphere is rooted in activism and calls for safety, acceptance and equal rights. Staged each July, CSD attracts hundreds of thousands of people from across the queer spectrum, making it one of the calendar's most diverse Pride events, and, given that this is a country where nudity is second nature, pretty much anything goes in terms of what to wear. As for where to stay, choose one of the 30-odd hotels that subscribe to Visit Berlin's Pink Pillows initiative and are particularly sensitive to LGBT+ guests' needs. Hotel Oderberger in the lively Prenzlauer Berg district is an excellent option. Brighton When: 2 August 2025 Beachy vibes meet big-name acts at Brighton Pride, which is Britain's biggest, best and brightest LGBT+ event. This year's headliner, Mariah Carey, follows international icons such as Christine Aguilera, Britney Spears and the queen of pop herself, Kylie, all of whom have previously graced the post-parade festival's main stage. Held in the city's Preston Park (where the Pride parade terminates), this year's iteration is a two-day event that promises cabaret and funfair rides as well as credible live music. Brighton Pride is something you need to plan ahead for, though; the Preston Park festival and the Pride Village street party that follows it in Kemptown (the LGBT+ neighbourhood) are ticketed events, and accommodation books up well in advance. Try The Willows Hotel, a cute and colourful, 14-room boutique option in Kemptown, within stumbling distance of both the party and Brighton's shingle beach. Amsterdam When: 2 August 2025 Rather than having its colourful Pride parade take to the city streets, Amsterdam makes use of its greatest asset: its central ring of canals. Lined by elegant Golden Age townhouses that date from the 1700s, these scenic waterways stage a colourful, floating carnival every August. Huge crowds gather along its route; get there early to stake out a decent spot on a bridge or along the water's edge, or go one better and rent a boat from which to watch the parade pass by. Although Pride itself stretches over a week of street parties, movie screenings and other LGBT+ events, the Canal Parade is its absolute highlight (well, that and the various afterparties, such as the legendary Rapido). For a real treat, book a canal-facing room at luxurious Pulitzer Amsterdam and watch the parade as it passes down Prinsengracht from your elevated viewpoint, well above the crowds. Manchester When: 23 August 2025 In Manchester, the August Bank Holiday weekend wears a rainbow flag. Britain's northern powerhouse doesn't do things by half at the best of times, and its Pride festivities are no exception. Expanding way beyond the city's Gay Village for the whole weekend, it's loud, proud and friendly in that chipper northern way, but there's a serious side too, as attested by the candlelit vigil in Sackville Gardens to commemorate those who lost their lives to HIV/AIDS. Much more lighthearted is the revelry on Canal Street, at the heart of the Gay Village, where bars spill outside onto the street and there are live acts, cabaret and even a silent disco. Head beyond here to the edgier Northern Quarter for its alternative, pop-up events, after which you can crash at Native Manchester, whose Ducie Street Warehouse location serves excellent coffee and brunch on the ground floor: the perfect hangover remedy. Stockholm When: 2 August 2025 With upwards of 30 Pride parades taking place across the calendar (including iterations in Gothenburg, Malmö and even up in Lapland for the Sami community), super-liberal Sweden tips the scales when it comes to LGBT+ celebrations. Stockholm's is the biggest of them all (indeed, it's the largest in Scandinavia) and draws some 50,000 supporters to its parade and colourful Pride Park festival, all packed with creativity, community spirit and an ABBA-heavy soundtrack. For a deeper experience, Pride House offers a chance to exchange experiences and talk about issues and challenges for the LGBT+ community via workshops, debates and discussions with notable authors. Beyond it all is the sheer magic of enjoying Stockholm during its long summer days, when the waterfront and architecture of Gamla Stan (the historic district) are at their best. Add extra 'hello, sailor' vibes to your visit by staying at Victory Hotel, a nautical-themed boutique property in Gamla Stan. Prague When: 2 August 2025 With Russia's well-known anti-LGBTQ+ approach mirrored by Hungary (which recently enacted a law that has effectively banned Pride gatherings), the situation for Eastern Europe's LGBT+ communities is far less secure than in the West, all of which makes Prague Pride so vital. Since its inception in 2011, the region's leading Pride event has grown to become an essential voice for tolerance, change, acceptance and inclusion. As well as being a Pride with a purpose, the event appeals because of the scenery: the parade takes in cobbled streets amongst baroque facades, in the shadow of Prague Castle. Sure, the event may not have the stature of western Europe's big-hitters, but its appeal lies in its defiance: this is a union of partying and progress in a region where LGBT+ rights are evolving, which is very much in the spirit of how the Pride movement began. Stay centrally (close to Wenceslas Square) at Falkensteiner Hotel Prague.
