European Grand Tour
Trip highlights
- Go behind the scenes at the Palace of Versailles with access to the private apartments
- Glide along Venice's Grand Canal on a gondola and explore the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello
- Enjoy an overnight journey from Paris to Venice on the Belmond Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express
- Marvel at Florence's Renaissance masterpieces and explore the nearby Chianti wine region
- Relax in Santorini, enjoying its gorgeous wine and epic sunsets
- Learn how to make delicious, authentic pizza in Rome
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–4 Paris
- Days 4–5 Overnight train journey
- Days 5–8 Venice
- Days 8–11 Florence
- Days 11–14 Rome
- Days 14–17 Athens
- Days 17–20 Santorini
- Days 1–4 Paris
- Days 4–5 Overnight train journey
- Days 5–8 Venice
- Days 8–11 Florence
- Days 11–14 Rome
- Days 14–17 Athens
- Days 17–20 Santorini
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Begin in Paris
The ‘City of Love’ has always dazzled visitors with its vibrancy, unique history and romantic moments by the River Seine. Paris is seductive, stunning whatever the weather, but above all, timeless. There’s plenty to do and see in Paris, but it’s a city that captivates its guests with the little things: strolling the cobbled avenues, people-watching in the finest French cafés and savouring freshly-baked pastries from a local boulangerie. Paris oozes chic, with trendy boutiques and haute-couture labels dotted all over every arrondissement.
Where you could stay
Paris
Highlights
- 48 rooms and suites
- Lounge
- Private garden
- Guerlain spa
Overview
A former private residence, Relais Christine is a charming boutique hotel nestled in Paris’ Left Bank in Saint-Germain des-Prés.
With just 48 rooms and suites, the hotel has a wonderfully intimate feel. Antique furnishings, rich fabrics and exquisite marble bathrooms give rooms an undeniably French feel, and some come with balconies from which to admire this corner of the capital.
The cosy lounge with fireplace is the perfect place to relax with a morning coffee and the papers, or a glass of wine before you set off to discover the Latin Quarter which lies right on your doorstep.
A paved courtyard sits between the front and back buildings and leads to the entrance. A beautiful garden, accessible to only a few hotel guests, is a real oasis of calm where greenery is laced across the walls and flowers tumble from the balconies above.
There is also a Guerlain spa with Jacuzzi, sauna, exercise room and private treatment rooms where you can relax and unwind.
→ Find out moreParis
Overview
A selection of ten luxury apartments on the Place du Trocadéro in the glamorous 16th arrondissement of Paris, with just the Jardins du Trocadéro and the Seine between you and the Eiffel Tower.
The apartments range from 140 square metres (1507 square feet) to 300 square metres (3230 square feet), with one to four bedrooms, all in a grand, quintessential Parisian Haussmann-style building.
This is in magnificent contrast to the interior of the apartments, which are all spacious, understated and graced with designer decoration by the talented Rémi Tessier to make you feel at home from the moment you enter.
To ensure you settle in, all the apartments offer services such as a concierge ready and willing to tend to your every need, valet parking and a housekeeper who will prepare breakfast. A professional chef can handle all your meals and there are a range in-home personal care services to soothe and pamper on request such as massages, hair-styling, manicures, pedicures, and much more.
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The highlights
Palace life
Art in focus
Art in focus
Highlights of Paris driving tour
Take in some of the highlights of Paris as you enjoy a thrilling driving tour around the French capital city, admiring the Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Le Grand Palais, l’Opera Garnier and Palace Vendome.
Palace of Versailles tour with access to the private apartments
The Palace of Versailles dates back to 1038 and was the official residence of the Kings of France from 1682 until 1790. The interior showcases beautiful examples of baroque furnishings, a rare collection of objects d’art and the famous grand Hall of Mirrors. Your tour will include exclusive access to apartments and rooms closed to the public, such as the apartments of Madame de Tourvel, secret passages and a gallery located above the Hall of Mirrors.
The Louvre
The Louvre is one of the most important and most visited museums in the world and extending over 210,000 square metres, it’s the largest in Paris. During your visit you’ll discover the Louvre’s three great ladies – Venus de Milo, Victory of Samothrace, and Mona Lisa, as well as other key works.
Overnight train journey from Paris to Venice
Board the Belmond Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express in Paris and settle into your private cabin. A delicious four-course dinner will be served in the restaurant car, and after you can return to your cabin which has been turned into a cosy bedroom.
In the morning, you’ll wake to the magnificent mountain scenery as breakfast is served in your cabin. Spend the morning relaxing before a three-course lunch. While away the afternoon admiring the beautiful landscape before crossing the Venetian lagoon and pulling into Santa Lucia station.
Your luxury overnight train
Luxury British Train Journeys
Highlights
- Three restaurant cars
- Champagne bar
- Evening entertainment
- Midnight brunch
Overview
Step onboard this legendary train and travel back to the golden age of the 20s and 30s, for a journey that combines adventure and style. Crisscrossing Europe, you’ll roll through sublime scenery to some of the continent’s most alluring cities, with the most famous overnight journey running from London to Venice across France and the Alps.
The train cars are the original 1920s models, and the charming vintage cabins have been restored to their former glory. The double cabins feature an upper and lower berth while the single cabins have one lower berth. During the day, the berths are transformed to offer comfortable banquette seating from which you can relax and watch the world go by.
There are three restaurant cars so you can dine in style while enjoying the beauty of the countryside. Etoile du Nord features wonderful floral marquetry; the Côte d’Azur’s delicate lalique glass panels add elegance and style; and L’Oriental is decorated in black lacquer. Ingredients are brought onboard at stops along the route to guarantee freshness.
The champagne bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a perfectly chilled glass in beautiful art deco surroundings, or sip an expertly mixed cocktail in the bar car while listening to the delicate tinkle of the resident pianist.
→ Find out moreWelcome to Venice
Sat within a shallow lagoon between the mouths of Po and Piave rivers, Venice consists of 118 islands formed by some 170 canals connected by over 400 bridges. The entire city is considered a World Heritage Site, an extraordinary architectural masterpiece in which even the smallest building may contain works by some of Europe’s greatest artists. Spend your days discovering hidden galleries, museums and palazzos.
Where you could stay
Venice
Overview
The iconic Belmond Hotel Cipriano is located on Guidecca Island, across the water from St Mark’s Square, a most enviable location that has long helped make the hotel one of Venice’s most exclusive.
96 rooms and suites, split between the mid 20th century building and historic palazzo, are decorated in an opulent and impeccably Venetian style, with views out across the lagoon and cityscape or the lush Casanova gardens.
Fine dining options, such as the Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant and Cip’s Bar, take full advantage of the location’s wonderful vistas, while the Gabbiano Bar, Wine Cellar and Piano Bar are each draws in the evening.
The famous Olympic-sized swimming is at the centre of the property, the only one of its size in central Venice. There is a personal trainer on site, red-clay tennis courts, and a fitness centre, as well the Casanova Wellness Centre for something a bit more relaxing.
It is just five minutes from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani’s own pier to St Mark’s in the heart of Venice. Here the city’s highlights await.
→ Find out moreVenice
Overview
At the Grand Canal’s edge, the historic Gritti Palace occupies a building that dates back to 1475 as a private home for the noble Pisani family, followed by the distinguished Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti.
Carefully restored in 2013, the Gritti’s heritage and culture have blended with a renewed Venetian style. 61 luxurious guest rooms and 21 sumptuous suites, including some with canal views, are replete with rare archival fabrics, the finest Italian marbles and a stunning array of new and original chandeliers from Murano, as well as the latest technology and sumptuous beds.
Gritti’s famous terrace has long been a social hub. The splendid Bar Longhi features some of the best cocktails in Venice and the Club del Doge Restaurant features regional specialties, casual chic by day and a more formal affair at dinner. The palace is also home to the Gritti Epicurean School, an informal Venetian open kitchen that hosts wine tastings, cooking workshops and celebrations.
Well located by the Grand Canal on the southern edge of the San Marco district, Venice’s great opera house, cathedrals, museums and palazzos are all close by.
→ Find out moreVenice
Overview
In the gallery-filled Dorsoduro borough, hidden away by the Salute church, is the intimate Ca’ Maria Adele in its quaint 16th-century palazzo.
There are just twelve sumptuous rooms, including two suites and five themed rooms inspired by Venice’s history, such as the Oriental Room, a nod to the travels of Marco Polo, and the Doge’s Room, all deep-red damask drapes and gold accents.
The vibe is Venetian and decadent – think terrazzo floors, Murano chandeliers and antique furnishings – but playful touches of African wood, polished concrete and a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere make it modern.
Whilst lacking a restaurant of its own, breakfast is served wherever you feel, whether in room, in the lounge or out on the terrace, a setting where Italian-style tea can be enjoyed in the afternoon. There is also an exceedingly well stocked bar.
Ca’ Maria Adele can organise tailored tours in and around the city, the Royal Palace a short gondola ride away from the hotel’s own water entrance. Being in Dorsoduro, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Punta della Dogana and the Magazzini del Sale are a short stroll away.
→ Find out moreVenice
Overview
Set on the lively Riva degli Schiavine promenade, Hotel Danieli is the epitome of Venetian style and elegance.
On entering the hotel you are welcomed by rich golds and reds, marble floors and beautiful tapestries. This classic décor is carried throughout the 210 rooms and suites which feature high ceilings, Murano glass lamps and large windows through which you can take in the views of the canal or the cobbled streets of the city.
The rooftop restaurant allows guests to gaze out across the Grand Canal, watching the gondolas glide across the water while enjoying traditional Venetian cuisine influenced by the spice traders that used to pass through the city. For a pre-dinner aperitivo or a morning cappuccino, Bar Dandle with its marble columns and chandeliers has plenty of atmosphere.
You’re ideally situated to explore Venice, just minutes from the Bridge of Sighs, Piazza San Marco and the Palace Gardens.
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On the water
Explore on foot
Island hopping
Island hopping
Gondola ride
No visit to Venice would be complete without experiencing a gondola ride down the city’s iconic canals. It gives you a very special Venetian point of view and it is from the water that beautiful city offers its most spectacular side.
St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace and Basilica
If you imagine landing in Venice from the sea, the first thing you see rising out of the water is the unmistakable shape of the Doge’s Palace – the city’s most famous building. Your historical walking tour will then take you through backstreets to the shimmering, mosaic-filled St. Mark’s Basilica. Its architecture is a mixture of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian.
Murano, Burano and Torcello
Visit Venice’s most famous islands, Murano, Burano and Torcello. Murano has been known since the 1200s for the art of glass making, and you’ll visit a glass factory. Burano is a picturesque fisherman island known for its brightly-coloured houses and lace school. See the women who still work this antique technique of lace making by hand. The last stop is Torcello, where you will see its beautiful cathedral with its mosaics dating back to the 1100s.
Enchanting Florence
Surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills, the beautiful city of Florence is one of Europe’s most enchanting and historically influential cities. If anywhere in the world can claim to have shaped modern Western consciousness, it is Florence’s grand piazzas and palazzos. The world’s greatest Renaissance artworks and sculpture can be found at every turn in the historical centre, an area that can be traversed on foot in under an hour but would take infinitely longer to properly explore.
Where you could stay
Florence
Highlights
- 37 rooms and 7 suites
- Le Bistrot Restaurant and bar
- Spa with hammam
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Bicycles
- Gym
- Complimentary shuttle service to the city
Overview
Overlooking the historic Boboli Gardens, near to Florence’s centre, Villa Cora is an exquisitely restored 19th century palace that offers a step back into the grandeur of neoclassical Florence, with eclectic and occasionally bizarre artistic styles of the period.
Built at a time when Florence was the cosmopolitan capital of the newly created Kingdom of Italy, Villa Cora earned its reputation by hosting guests such as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, and the Russian composer Tchaikovsky, being considered the most beautiful residence of the Tuscan capital. It became a grand hotel in 1960, during another of Florence’s most stylish periods.
The hotel has 44 rooms and suites, divided into the main villa and in two adjacent buildings. The majority are in the main villa, split over four floors, each of which has been characterised around a theme, one with extravagant frescoes, another taking Moorish influence from the Orient. Villino Eugenia is a small guesthouse overlooking the Boboli Gardens, containing 13 accommodations, each decorated and furnished according to the bourgeois styles of the late 19th century. Lastly, La Follie, a small guesthouse located at the edge of the park that surrounds Villa Cora has a particular charm and discretion with only two rooms for complete privacy.
Le Bistrot Restaurant offers seasonal produce, during the winter months in the splendid Moorish Room with its domed ceiling with original frescoes by Antonio Caremmi, and in the summer outdoors in the winter garden by the side of the swimming pool, where guests can relax in an elegant yet informal environment.
The Benè spa is located on the lower floor of Villino Eugenia and is equipped with a small gym, tepidarium, sauna and Turkish hammam. The wellness centre offers Asian and European massages as well as beauty treatments. There is also a large heated outdoor pool shaded by vast oak trees.
→ Find out moreFlorence
Overview
The Hotel Savoy could not be more centrally located if it tried, located on Florence’s Piazza della Repubblica, next to the Duomo, with all the famous attractions of the city within walking distance.
Interiors are the work of designer Olga Polizzi, combining sleek and contemporary Italian with the building’s historic form, along with some more playful touches throughout. There are 88 rooms and 14 suites, including the two bedroom Repubblica Suite and its spectacular view over the square, and the Brunelleschi and Signoria suites that each enjoy private steam rooms.
Hotel Savoy’s restaurant, Irene, is overseen by renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini and offers authentic flavours using local seasonal products, with some light and healthy reinventions of Tuscan classics. During warmer months, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace and soak up the atmosphere.
→ Find out moreFlorence
Overview
Set amidst lush trees and terraced gardens, the Belmond Villa San Michelle enjoys the most perfect view over Florence from its hilltop position. Dating back to a 15th century monastery, the renaissance villa’s facade has been attributed to Michelangelo, as much a part of Italy’s heritage as the cathedrals and galleries down the hill. Today, Belmond Villa San Michele is recognised as one of the country’s finest boutique hotels.
Each of the 20 rooms and 25 suites are unique, with sumptuous antiques, along with cotto-tile flooring and bright Florentine textiles. Separate from the main building, the exquisite Limonaia Villa contains three suites located in the convent’s former orangery, all with incredible views. These can be connected together to create perhaps the most glamorous villa in Tuscany, a unique haven for families and groups of friends, or for a special occasion such as a wedding or exclusive party.
Belmond Villa San Michelle is naturally a favourite among honeymooners, however there are special services tailored towards family adventures, and world famous the cookery school is a destination in itself. A huge range of activities are on offer, such as exclusive historical tours and rafting under the Ponte Vecchio, and there is a complimentary shuttle to and from Florence itself. At the hotel, relax amongst the immaculate gardens and at the spa, swim in the panoramic pool or take part in one of the renowned culinary classes.
Dining options here include one of the best restaurants in Florence – the romantic La Loggia – and more laid back cuisine at the Pool Restaurant, each with their own bar, as well as the Cloister Bar in the old monastery.
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Siena highlights
Footsteps of history
In the vines
In the vines
Siena city tour
Start at Piazza del Duomo with the spectacular Romanesque and Gothic cathedral. The square is surrounded by the Santa Maria della Scala Hospital, the Archbishop’s Palace, the unfinished Duomo, and Opera del Duomo museum. You’ll then reach the Piazza del Campo, a unique shell-shaped area which was paved in the 14th century. Look out for the different animals and symbols that represent the city’s 17 contradas; giraffes, dragons, owl, unicorns and caterpillars all appear on the outside of buildings.
Walking tour of Renaissance Florence
Explore Florence’s Renaissance past on a guided walking tour of the city’s historic centre. Visit the Academia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s ‘David’. You’ll also visit the church of Santa Maria del Fiore – the famous Duomo – to view Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome; the nearby Campanile of Giotto (bell tower); and Ghiberti’s enchanting ‘Gates of Paradise’, the door to the Baptistry. Continue to the Piazza della Signoria’s captivating outdoor sculpture gallery.
Explore the Chianti region
Discover the beautiful Chianti region with a private driver. Learn about some of the most excellent Italian wines and explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside and its scattered Medieval towns.
Private transfer to Rome, via Orvieto
Located on a hilltop in the beautiful Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is sure to capture your heart with its churches, cobbled lanes, and medieval piazzas; the stunning Gothic cathedral is not to be missed.
When in Rome
Rome, Italy’s capital and largest city, needs little introduction. One of the most historied locations in the world, glorious reminders of Rome’s illustrious past, from ancient Roman wonders to Renaissance masterpieces, are all on show. That’s not to say that its cosmopolitan streets do not embrace the now; Rome is as exhilarating and forward-thinking as ever.
Where you could stay
Rome
Overview
Built the late 19th century, this grandiose villa has stayed with the Trivelli family ever since, through hosting meetings of the National Council of Italian Women, high society gathering of Counts and Countess to being the residence of Piero Trivelli, a sensitive writer and refined poet. In 2004, son of Count Piero decided to convert the historic residence into the fabulous boutique hotel of today.
Communal areas are full of antiques and art, the library is listed and lounge areas steeped in a dark wood, old world luxury. Outside are peaceful formal gardens that form a walled oasis away from the Rome’s bustle.
Overlooking the greenery are just 12 rooms, warm and welcoming, with subtle modern touches enhancing the historic charm of the original features. Large beds are clad in Fiandra linen sheets and alpaca or cashmere throws. Bathrooms are spacious and lined in marble, and all have baths as well as showers. Well-stocked minibars are complimentary.
On the other side of the garden are two Garden Suites and a large apartment ideal for families, small groups or those seeking privacy.
Breakfast is a vast spread and afternoon tea is served by the fireplace, whilst dinners can be arranged in the garden during summer months. There is also a wonderful spa and health centre offering restorative wellness therapies.
Centrally located between the Via Nazionale and the Quirinal Palace, the Colosseum is a 15 minute walk away, the Trevi Fountain half that, and many of the city’s best restaurants are just around the corner.
→ Find out moreRome
Highlights
- 91 rooms and 31 suites
- Le Jardin de Russie restaurant
- Stravinskij Bar
- De Russie Spa
- Fitness centre
Overview
Once hosting aristocratic travellers, Russian royalty and renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, a half century hiatus as an office building ended with a glorious restoration and re-establishment of this Roman icon.
The Hotel de Russie lies between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo on the Via del Babuino, within easy walking distance of Rome’s main attractions, fashion houses and Via Condotti. Though surrounded by the ceaseless buzz of the city, behind the hotel’s unassuming frontage, is a soothing tranquility – both in design and ambiance – and vast private 18th century terraced gardens, a rare oasis away from it all.
122 rooms and suites are thoroughly up to date amenity wise, complete with Bisazza mosaic and Carrara marble in the bathrooms. Some feature private terraces and many rooms have views over Rome, Piazza del Popolo or the garden.
The Stravinskij Bar is renowned for its apertivos, while Le Jardin de Russie and its chef, two-Michelin-star chef Fulvio Pierangelini, serve up simple yet refined dishes Mediterranean dishes in one a most romantic of settings. Furthering the Hotel de Russie urban oasis credentials is the De Russie Spa, one of Rome’s best health clubs.
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Vatican treasures
Get cooking
Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome
Tour of the Vatican City
The Vatican City is the smallest state in the world, covering just 0.44 square kilometres. At the sprawling Vatican Museum, you’ll tour the seemingly endless collection of treasures as you make your way to the single work of art that dwarfs them all: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, the best-known chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope in the Vatican City. This tour will end with the extraordinary St. Peter’s Basilica designed principally by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Pizza-making workshop
No visit to Italy would be complete without tasting an authentic Italian pizza, but what better way to experience this iconic Italian dish than through making your own? You’ll be welcomed by a professional pizza maker and be taken through the process of pizza making. You’ll get to knead the dough, create the topping, pop it into the oven and best of all, you’ll get to eat your creation too.
Tour of Ancient Rome - The Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum
Discover the great Roman Forum, for centuries the centre of civic life as the site of triumphal processions, elections, public speeches and criminal trials. Then, along the Via Sacra (Sacred Way), head to the Palatine Hill, one of the most ancient area of the city, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium. Last but not least, enter the magnificent Colosseum, considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering, and capable of seating up to 50,000 spectators.
Lively Athens
There are few places where the past comes to life in quite the same way as in Athens. Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation, it’s a city bursting at the seams with culture, intrigue, and beauty. It’s not just a place for history buffs, however, it’s also one of the liveliest European capitals. A thriving café culture ensures you’re not left waning in between all the sightseeing and you’ll never have to venture far to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Where you could stay
Athens
Highlights
- 320 rooms and suites
- Winter Garden restaurant
- Rooftop pool and bar
- Spa and fitness centre
- Indoor pool
Overview
The hotel was built in 1874 and is full of old-world charm. Each of its 320 rooms and suites are beautifully styled, with antique furnishings, chandeliers and traditional tiled floors.
With such spectacular views, you’ll want to head up to the rooftop pool and bar. Seeing the Acropolis illuminated at night is a truly spectacular sight so make sure you try one of their signature cocktails and enjoy the sparkling lights of the city.
There’s also plenty to draw you inside, including the bright and airy Winter Garden Lounge, an extension of the hotel’s beautiful lobby. The cellar is filled with over 3,000 bottles of wine and it’s well worth enjoying a drink at Alexander’s Bar which features an original 19th-centuty tapestry depicting Alexander the Great entering Gaugamela.
For when you need to relax and unwind, make a beeline for the spa and fitness centre, complete with indoor pool.
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- City hotels, like the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens, serve as custodians of rich heritage, actively preserving a significant neoclassical building with a history dating back to 1842. Through dedicated efforts in conservation and restoration, the hotel ensures the enduring legacy of cultural heritage within its walls.
- Conducting a comprehensive plastic audit, the hotel addresses common sources of plastic waste with clear reduction targets. Initiatives include filtered water stations, replacing plastic straws with reusable alternatives, and collaborating with sustainable suppliers. The commitment extends to green cleaning practices, using non-toxic or plant-based solutions, and employing energy-efficient equipment. Recycling is prioritised with clearly labelled bins, complemented by staff and guest education on proper waste sorting.
- The hotel actively engages its staff in a wide range of local fundraisers, aligning with a robust commitment to community support. These initiatives include regular fundraising activities with various local charities, donation drives for clothing and books, weekly food donations to support the homeless and socially vulnerable groups, and regular contributions to local orphanages.
Athens
Overview
Located moments from Constitution Square and within walking distance to the city’s main attractions, the NEW Hotel provides one of Athens’ most modern lodgings with playfully cutting edge design in a place otherwise synonymous for antiquity.
There are 79 rooms and suites, all of which feature their own art installation and surrealist custom furniture, as well as comprehensive soundproofing, fine beds and blackout blinds. The Penthouse Suite is particularly noteworthy for its fine views to the Acropolis.
The rest of the hotel is strewn with bold design features and art, some made with remnants of the original hotel that once occupied the 50s modernist building, with the restaurant perhaps the most striking space. Open from breakfast until midnight, it serves new takes on Mediterranean cuisine, and oven-fresh bread and pastries from the bakery. There’s also a fabulous rooftop lounge, a bar and wellness area with a gym and spa.
→ Find out moreAthens
Overview
In a fine location in the centre of Athens, the 1930s King George Hotel is an updated classic.
There are 102 spacious rooms and suites, topped of on the ninth floor with the sprawling Penthouse and its incredible private rooftop pool with views out over the city to the Acropolis.
This vista can also be enjoyed from the Tudor Hall Restaurant, a grand venue which serves authentic Greek seasonal dishes with a modern twist.
As well as the ancient wonders of Acropolis, other famous sites and sights within walking distance include the Agora, Plaka district and Thissio neighbourhood, as well as many upmarket boutiques, world-renowned museums, and the city’s vibrant business district.
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Best of Athens
In the air
Athens city tour
See Athens in all its glory on a panoramic tour, beginning at the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games took place in 1896. Passing the Megaron Concert Hall, you’ll admire neoclassical buildings, such as the National Library, the National Archeological Museum and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the National Bank of Greece. Continue to the renovated Omonoia Square and the neighbourhood of Kerameikos where you’ll stop for coffee.
Delphi by helicopter
The town of Delphi, a little over two hours from Athens, was the site of the 4th century BC Temple of Apollo. The temple’s high priestess, also known as the Pythia, were the most important and authoritative oracles in Greece, and the most powerful women of the classical world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world.
Heavenly Santorini
Floating in the southern Aegean Sea is a little slice of Greek heaven. A huge volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago left a caldera, which turned the then- circular Santorini into a crescent-shaped island, one that has been charming visitors since they first arrived.
Santorini is the largest island of a small archipelago, wrapping its arms protectively around the islands of Palea, Nea and Thirasia. Sheer cliffs, hundreds of metres high, shield coves and beaches made up of red, white and black sand, while pretty villages of limewashed cubic houses creep up the sides, nestled into every nook and cranny.
Where you could stay
Santorini
Highlights
- 26 rooms
- Swimming pools
- Restaurant
- Spa
Overview
Décor in the 26 spacious suites is sophisticated and minimalist, playing off the iconic architecture of the region. Modern touches make for a comfortable stay, while views out over the caldera and the Aegean Sea and private pools allow for ultimate relaxation.
The white buildings and the fresh blues of the sea and pools make for a tranquil place to unwind. Freshen up in a luxurious rain shower, laze on a private veranda, take a dip in a private infinity pool, or enjoy a meal in an open-air dining area.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast to start the day, or a romantic meal under the night sky, Petra Restaurant serves an array of authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy fresh fish at the poolside, while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
The Canaves Oi Spa menu offers a selection of signature treatments to make your stay truly relaxing. The space was once a 17th century wine cave and hasn’t lost any of its charm, the perfect place to treat yourself.
→ Find out moreSantorini
Highlights
- 22 rooms
- Restaurant and bar
- Champagne lounge
- Pool
- In-room spa treatments
- Gym
Overview
After a day of exploring the island, sit back and enjoy a spectacular sunset while sipping a refreshing cocktail at Grace Santorini.
Contemporary design and traditional artworks and pieces of furniture make each of the 22 rooms unique and inviting. The bathrooms are large and luxurious. Make yourself at home in a sea view suite, or drink in the views of the caldera from The Villa. For a touch more privacy, opt for a suite with fragments of volcanic rock arranged across the windows, creating something of a “one-way” effect.
Whether you’re on honeymoon, or simply on holiday, Grace Santorini is the perfect place from which to experience what the village of Imerovigli has to offer.
Discover Mediterranean fusion at the Santoro restaurant where the menu is inspired by the flavours and produce of the Cycladic islands. Or enjoy evening drinks under the stars at the pool bar. The new Champagne and Cocktail Lounge has an extensive list of bubbly to choose from as well as exciting cocktails paired with dishes by the chef.
Treat yourself to an in-room spa treatment, or make use of the hotel’s boutique gym.
→ Find out moreSantorini
Overview
This sophisticated retreat offers elegance, luxury and exquisite views. Whether you opt for a stylish suite or private villa, Mystique is the ideal place to soak up the beauty of Santorini and recharge your body and mind.
The cliff-side resort’s 41 suites look out over the water towards the Aegean Caldera and volcano. Décor is island-inspired with gentle hues and soft textures. Wood and stone accents in the cave-styled rooms make for a natural, understated and calming atmosphere. Private Jacuzzis, fitness rooms and spacious terraces offer guests a comfortable haven.
Follow a cobblestone pathway to the plunge pool, or laze in the refreshing infinity pool and admire the view as you sip on a cocktail. Dining is an important part of your stay at Mystique, whether you’re more partial to traditional dishes or fusion flavours. Charisma Restaurant specialises in regional flavours and local ingredients, while Asea Lounge Restaurant’s menu features sushi and Japanese specialities. For a lighter bite, take a poolside table at Aura Bar, or sample the resort’s extensive wine collection at the Secret Wine Cave.
The natural focus that runs through Mystique is also incorporated into the design and treatments at the Elios Spa. The focus is on synchronising the body, mind and spirit with nature in a tranquil environment.
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Overview
Escape to the charming retreat Vedema, in the medieval village of Megalohori. What started out as a 400-year old wine cellar and a century-old mansion has been transformed into a luxurious getaway for travellers looking to experience all Santorini has to offer in extreme comfort.
The 59 suites and villas are spacious and offer views out over the garden, vineyards, village or Aegean sea. Some suites include terraces, pools and outdoor Jacuzzis, so that guests can enjoy both the luxury of their suites and the outdoors in privacy.
Follow a sunken pathway to Alati Restaurant which is housed in the old winery cave. The menu features fish and seafood as well as traditional Greek flavours. Or, for a taste of the region’s wines, dine on Mediterranean dishes at the romantic Canava Wine Bar. Make the most of the views as you enjoy a modern Greek breakfast at the Pergola Pool restaurant, or savour a cocktail or two at Black Rose down on the resort’s private black sand beach.
Embark on a sensory journey at the Elios Spa where there is a wide range of holistic healing and pampering treatments to choose from. And make use of the fitness centre where there are personal trainers on hand to make sure your exercise regime isn’t overlooked while you’re on holiday.
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Make it mine
Wine and dine
Sundowners
Santorini food and wine experience
Be introduced to the best of Santorini’s gastronomy on this tour exploring the island’s food and wine culture. Enjoy a delicious three-course meze menu of traditional dishes with recipes that stretch back generations and visit two family-owned wineries.
Private Santorini sunset yacht cruise
This private cruise, which lasts about five hours, combines swimming and snorkelling along with dinner on board while sailing across the sea as the sun sets.
During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the hot springs, sail past the volcano and admire the beautiful coastline and beaches, and swimming at various locations at your leisure. As the sun is setting, you’ll make your way back towards the port and enjoy the dreamy view.
Jacada provided our family with two amazing European getaways. Hanna and Alice had everything set up beautifully down to every last detail. The excursions, hotels, and guides were all incredible. We definitely recommend them and hope to work with Hanna again for future travel!