11 incredible travel experiences for a memorable summer

From daring mountain retreats to sun-kissed coastal escapes, we’ve got everything you need to help you plan your perfect summer holiday

A family smiling with suitcases at the airport
Whether it's a mountain adventure or an urban getaway, these are some travel experiences you won't forget Credit: Getty

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When it comes to planning a getaway, it can be difficult to find the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed family resort that will entertain the kids or a luxury escape to help everyone unwind, our pick of the best travel ideas for summer 2024 will give you food for thought.

Delight in the dynamic offerings of this vibrant US city

If you’re looking for an affordable urban break in a vibrant city in the United States, Pittsburgh should be at the top of your list. The birthplace of the iconic pop artist Andy Warhol, the Western Pennsylvanian city is a haven for art, architecture and culture enthusiasts. Here, you can choose from over 30 museums, indulge in a craft beverage from Rye Whiskey to award-winning craft beer or stroll through the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens spectacular displays. Whether you want to explore one of the city’s 90 unique neighbourhoods, sample eclectic local dishes in the Strip District or catch a baseball game at the home of the Pirates in PNC Park, there’s no shortage of things to see and do – many of which can be found only in Pittsburgh. Located just an hour from the city in neighbouring Laurel Highlands, visitors will find Fallingwater, the iconic property built over a waterfall, designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Fly direct with British Airways from London Heathrow and plan your trip now at visitpittsburgh.com

PNC park in Pittsburgh
From museums to baseball games to craft beer stops, Pittsburgh is the ultimate urban break

Stay in a historic 19th-century gem in Naples

Once a retreat for the literary and cultural elite of British high society, the Grand Hotel Parker’s overlooks the breathtaking bay of Naples. Having been meticulously transformed into a luxury five-star holiday destination, the hotel has proudly been a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SHL) since 2003. Here, elegant rooms are adorned with original antiques, while bronze sculptures gleam under chandeliers. You’ll be invited to enjoy a delicious à la carte breakfast, as well as wholesome Italian ‘mama’ style Neapolitan cuisine at the Bidder Terrace and the two-Michelin-star George Restaurant. Unwind after your meal with a classic shaken-not-stirred cocktail at the rooftop bar as you take in the breathtaking sunset over the bay. Learn more at grandhotelparkers.it

View of Naples from a balcony
Take in views of the Bay of Naples from the luxury of Grand Hotel Parker's

Enjoy a luxury escape to a five-star, adults-only resort in Crete

Just a short drive away from Chania Town’s famous picturesque harbour, Atlantica Kalliston Resort invites you to experience the authentic Cretan spirit in a magnificent setting with stunning sea views, sophisticated design and premium amenities. From the refined elegance of gourmet fine-dining, where candlelight sets the mood, to a selection of street food outlets, every moment promises a feast for the senses. Embrace the serenity of your own personal haven with swim-up or private pools, starting the day with a delicious poolside breakfast or a picnic excursion, and ending with enchanting sunset dinners. Opt for premium all-inclusive and enjoy 24/7 room service for late snack cravings, indulge in unlimited à la carte dining throughout your stay and enjoy a selection of international drinks. Find out more at atlanticahotels.com

Pool and sun loungers at Atlantica Kalliston Resort
Atlantica Kalliston Resort offers an authentic, five-star Cretan experience

Discover Sicily’s incredible cuisine from a stunning villa

Villatravellers has been providing beautiful villas to rent in Sicily since 2006. With over 60 properties in Sicily, and a new collection of villas in Puglia, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Offering everything from seafront homes and countryside estates to large properties for family get-togethers and smaller villas for romantic breaks, Villatravellers is dedicated to ensuring that your stay is suited to you and your needs. With in-villa cook services available, you can enjoy a home-cooked Sicilian meal in the comfort of your home away from home. Discover the vibrant cities of Palermo and Catania through dynamic street food tours, wine tours or boat trips. Guests can also experience personalised cooking lessons at home or at the local cookery schools. With discounts of up to 20% available on certain villas for this summer, discover your perfect stay at villatravellers.com

Pool and view of the ocean at a Villatravellers villa
See the best of Sicily and Puglia with Villatravellers' collection of holiday homes

Experience bustling London from a luxury hotel

Take your pick from three stunning London hotels by the luxury brand The Doyle Collection. Choose The Kensington Hotel to take advantage of the museum district and receive access to shows at the V&A and the K Bar. You can also book The Art of Afternoon Tea, all from a Georgian townhouse. If you’re an avid theatre-goer, opt for The Bloomsbury hotel, which offers a prime central location for catching West End shows. You can also sample its afternoon tea at its bars and restaurants, the Dalloway Terrace and The Coral Room. Meanwhile, only a stone’s throw from Bond Street and Oxford Street, The Marylebone hotel offers guests access to Third Space’s swimming pool and gym, while you can enjoy incredible London views from the terrace suites or dine in local’s favourite 108 Brasserie. Discover your perfect London break at doylecollection.com

Dining room at a hotel from The Doyle Collection
The Doyle Collections's luxury London hotels are perfect for exploring the capital

Relax, unwind and connect with nature in Thailand

Conrad Koh Samui is an eco-conscious luxury resort located on the south-western tip of Koh Samui island, Thailand. Ideal for couples, families or solo travellers, the resort features 81 spacious private pool villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, an outdoor terrace and stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Guests can indulge in an array of culinary experiences with a focus on farm-to-table dining and sustainability, enhancing every meal with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Immerse yourself in sustainable practices on the 8,000 square metre Iris Farm, engage with vibrant local culture at the Silapa art gallery and enjoy a range of workshops, such as coffee-roasting, kombucha-making and Thai herbal compress-making. For a rejuvenating retreat that blends ancient healing techniques with contemporary luxury, Conrad Koh Sumai provides a getaway to remember. Book now at conradkohsamui.com

A couple drinking wine in an infinity pool
Perfect for families, couples and solo travellers alike, the eco-conscious Conrad Koh Samui resort is not to be missed

Embark on a luxurious family-friendly escape to the French Riviera

Ranked among Europe’s grandest luxury hotels, The Fairmont Monte Carlo is an iconic resort in the heart of Monaco. With a decor inspired by the principality’s heritage and the French Riviera, the hotel blends relaxation with modernity, providing exquisite culinary experiences and meticulously crafted entertainment for the whole family. Indulge in the culinary excellence of the world-renowned Nobu restaurant, Nikki Beach and the new rooftop restaurant Amù Monte Carlo. At the new rooftop Amù By the Pool, guests can unwind while the little ones enjoy the entertainment of the kids’ club and Little Explorers’ Club. This July and August, Lena the Whale will take the kids on an adventure to discover the local culture and enjoy exciting activities. Book your stay now at fairmont-montecarlo.com

Suite at The Fairmont Monte Carlo
Set in the heart of Monaco, The Fairmont Monte Carlo is one of Europe's grandest luxury hotels

Let literary London come to life at a magnificent hotel

From its iconic Grade II-listed Art Deco building to the comfortable rooms and excellent service, Meliá White House Hotel evokes classic elegance through every detail. The '35 Bar & Lounge recreates the atmosphere of the West End, and guests can follow in the footsteps of the Bloomsbury Circle, the brilliant group of writers, artists and intellectuals who made their home in the neighbourhood during the 20th century. Walk through London and Regent’s Park and experience the story of Virginia Woolf’s famous novel, Mrs Dalloway. Delight in a pretty wicker basket on the lawn with a selection of sandwiches, cheeses, Spanish cured meats and scones with clotted cream and preserves. Book now at melia.com

Suite at Meliá White House Hotel in London
London's Meliá White House Hotel perfectly blends contemporary luxury with classic elegance

Enjoy a family getaway on Sardinia’s southern coast

Set across 120 acres of stunning gardens on white-sand beaches, Forte Village is an award-winning resort offering a fun, dynamic getaway for the whole family. Home to a life-sized Barbie House, Mario’s Village, a water park and a circus, as well as Leisureland with its disco, bowling and go-kart area, there’s endless fun for children of every age. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy football with the Fundación Real Madrid Clinic coaches, rugby with ex-England world players Martin Johnson, Austin Healey and Will Greenwood, or a fencing academy led by former champions. Celebrated for pioneering thalassotherapy, the Acquaforte Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments and services, before you enjoy culinary delights at one of the 21 restaurants, ranging from casual buffets to Michelin-starred fine-dining establishments. Book your escape at fortevillage.com

Forte Village resort along the Sardinian coast
Forte Village has everything – 21 restaurants, sports coaching, a water park, a spa, even a life-sized Barbie House

Experience an elevated wilderness retreat in the heart of the Canadian Rockies

Located in Kananaskis Country in the Alberta Rockies, Mount Engadine is a secluded rustic lodge and glamping destination offering the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy incredible scenery and local wildlife, as well as gourmet meals included in your stay. Choose from multiple accommodation options, including cabins, glamping tents and rooms in the main lodge. Open year-round with convenient access to local trails and activities, there’s an array of activities to enhance your stay, from fat biking and cross-country skiing in the winter to mountain biking in the summer. Don’t miss out on this incredible mountain experience, named one of the Top Five Hotels in Canada and Top 101 in the World by Fodor Travel in 2022. Book now at mountengadine.com

Lodge with mountains in the background
The perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, Mount Engadine in the Aberta Rockies is an experience to remember

Embrace romance and luxury at an all-inclusive resort in the Maldives

Dusit Thani Maldives, the Maldives’ first Unesco biosphere reserve, is located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll. The resort offers 94 elegant villas and residences, each combining lavish Thai furnishings with a Maldivian twist. Explore a range of incredible offerings such as the seamless round-trip transfer for two, which includes a curated selection of beverages, a private gourmet dinner paired with fine wines, rejuvenating wellness spa treatments, a captivating cooking class, a professional couple's photoshoot and exclusive activities such as a glass-bottom kayak adventure. Offering everything from intimate in-villa experiences set up just for you to a personal butler service, Dusit Thani Maldives promises a relaxing, romantic getaway like no other. Find out more at dusit.com

Aerial view of Dusit Thani Maldives resort
UNESCO: Dusit Thani Maldives is the nation's first Unesco biosphere reserve, offering a wide range of services

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