Daniela Toporek

City life is kind of our thing here at Time Out. And we truly believe there’s no better way to spend a long weekend than cramming in as much nightlife, food and culture as possible in one of Europe’s many great metropolises. And in 2026, there’s a whole new host of reasons to get out there and explore – everything from international sports events to fantastic festivals, and major anniversaries to all-new art exhibitions.  But with hundreds of cities to choose from, where should be top of your travel list this year? Fear not: we’ve done the hard work and narrowed it down for you. Along with our experts across the continent, I’ve rounded up the very best city breaks money can buy this year, from the cities having a huge moment in 2026 to the old classics that are always great – and why this is the year to visit every single one. Itching to start booking? Me too. Here’s our ultimate city break guide for 2026. Enjoy! RECOMMENDED:💸 The best cheap city breaks in Europe🗺 The most underrated cities in Europe📍 Ultimate guide to hotels in Europe Ella Doyle is Time Out’s Europe editor. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by experts across Europe. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

Solo female travel has gone far beyond ‘having a moment’ as more women than ever before continue to jet off on their own adventures, and it doesn’t look like the trend is going anywhere. That’s where we come in – Time Out has already compiled a guide on how to maximise your safety and minimise your stress on your first, third, or thirtieth solo trip, but now we’re here with a comprehensive guide to the best destinations in Europe. So, from whole countries which are known for their safety to cities with some of the world’s most outstanding public transport – all complimented with a helping of brilliant culture, pretty streets and impeccable local food, of course – here are our top picks for the best solo female travel destinations in Europe, with tips by our editors.  📍 READ MORE: Time Out’s ultimate guide to Europe Liv Kelly is Time Out’s travel writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by experts across Europe. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

Sure, Charlotte has historically basked in the shadow of its bigger, louder counterparts when it comes to U.S. cities, but here’s why it’s worthy of your attention. There’s a shedload of teams to come out and support (though you can also visit NASCAR Hall of Fame for a taste), the Levine Center for the Arts is primed for—you guessed it—art-lovers, and for those looking to amp up the activity, think walking trails, whitewater rafting and lakeside bliss. Whatever you’re feeling, Charlotte has you covered, and we’ve compiled all the city’s top places to rest your head.  Which area is best to stay in Charlotte? To be smack dab in the middle of the sporting, dining and creative center of Charlotte, stay in Uptown on your first visit. However, for an area with a little bit more edge (and plenty of breweries) go for NoDa. Alternatively, Ballantyne has plenty of family friendly options, including the gleaming eponymous hotel in spot number one on our list.  Charlotte’s best hotels at a glance: 💎 Most luxurious: The Ritz-Carlton 👛 Best budget: Dunhill Hotel 🌃 Best view: JW Marriott Charlotte 👙 Best pool: The Ballantyne Hotel & Spa 🤩 Most iconic: The Ivey’s Hotel 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Charlotte  How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels

There is simply no better feeling than zooming down a scenic motorway with the windows down, speaker volume up, and your free will to wander wherever the winding roads sweep you. It's catharctic, chaotic and a full-blown main character moment - whether you’re the one behind the wheel or not. Lucky for us, Europe offers infinite arteries to flow through, allowing drivers to hit the pedal to the metal and reach epic destinations with some elite scenery along the way.  What is the best country for a road trip in Europe? One of the best countries to roam the roads? Montenegro. This tiny country holds a hell of a lot to see, from its stunning, sparkling coastlines down in Kotor Bay to the impressive mountain ranges that reach to the stars near the northern village of Vranjak. There are also ferries that help roadies float from one town to the next, offering a few minutes to step outside, stretch and take in the surroundings. Plus, Montenegro is extremely affordable. Other countries on the four-wheeled bucket list include Germany and its unstoppable Autobahn, and Italy with its ferocious speed limits (and Ferraris). 📍 READ MORE: Time Out’s ultimate guide to Europe John Bills is a writer for Time Out Travel. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by experts across Europe. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

There’s nothing like travelling abroad for a festival. You get to explore somewhere new, see a bunch of cracking artists, as well as maybe – just maybe – enjoy better weather and cheaper beer. Europe is certainly not in short supply of some really brilliant places to party, from tiny, lesser-known spots in the Azores to headliner-packed festivities in France and the Netherlands. This year, all eyes are on the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland as it prepares for its 60th anniversary. Expect an epic line up and some extra jazzy surprises for 2026. The only thing missing from our list this year? That’s everyone’s favourite UK fest, Glastonbury  – which is taking its regular fallow year to make sure the land is looked after. But don’t fear: there are plenty more UK festivals on this list to discover in its absence. And there’s never been a better time to boogie down in lesser known, but equally fantastic festivals before its epic return in 2027. What is the largest festival in Europe? Many think that it's Glastonbury, and though it’s certainly one of the most well known, in terms of numbers, it’s not even the the biggest in the UK! The biggest in Europe is actually Donauinselfest in Vienna, Austria, which sees upwards of two million visitors a year. After that, it’s probably joint between Glasto and Tomorrowland in Belgium. The more you know! RECOMMENDED: 🌃 The most underrated destinations in Europe🌤️ The best European city breaks At Time Out, all of our travel guides are

A planear as suas viagens para o novo ano? Deve, sem dúvida, contar com aqueles clássicos da bucket list, mas se procura inspiração fresca, 2026 promete um mundo de experiências totalmente novas. Desde dormir num museu ao ar livre até percorrer paisagens ancestrais em e-bikes, fazer zipline sobre magníficas reservas naturais e festejar durante um eclipse solar – sim, a sério – há dezenas de experiências fora do circuito habitual e fora da caixa a acontecer nos próximos 12 meses. Pelos quatro cantos do mundo, a Time Out escolheu as 26 coisas mais incríveis, surpreendentes e emocionantes para fazer em 2026. Recomendado: Podes vir, 2026. Temos as melhores agendas para planear o novo ano

Planning your travels for the new year? You should absolutely factor in those long-standing bucket list entries, but if you’re looking for some fresh inspiration, 2026 promises a world of brand-new travel experiences.  From sleeping over in an open-air museum to journeying through ancient landscapes on e-bikes, ziplining over glorious wildlife reserves and partying through a solar eclipse – yes, really – there’s a shedload of off-the-beaten-track, out-of-the-box stuff happening over the next 12 months. Scroll on for our handpicked selection of the 26 coolest, weirdest and most exciting things to do in 2026.  RECOMMENDED:🎶 The biggest and best music festivals in 2026🛍️ The coolest streets in the world🏘️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world🌃 The best cities in the world right now Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.

British winters deserve more credit. Yes, the sun is gone and the skies are grey – but the leaves are golden, the log fires are lit and country walks are crisp. There’s no better to enjoy it than tucked away in a countryside cottage, and there’s plenty of fabulous cottages all over the UK, all available to book on Airbnb. So what are you waiting for? Live out your The Holiday dreams at one of these ridiculously cosy holiday spots.  Where is the best place to find cosy cottages in the uk? Come winter, there’s cosiness everywhere you look – log cabins and remote farmsteads in Cornwall, budget stays in Somerset and treehouses of dreams in the woods of Mayfield – all of which you’ll find on this list. But our ultimate cosy choice, with the cobbled streets, thatched roofs and wintery walks you desire? That’s the Cotswolds – home to the likes of picture-perfect Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and more. For more ideas, head to our guide to the UK’s best wintery getaways.   The cosiest Airbnbs at a glance 👩‍❤️‍👨Best for couples: A romantic escape in the woods of Diggle 🌳Most unique: A treehouse in the woods of Mayfield ⛰️Most remote: A farm cottage in Cumbria 👶Best for families: A cosy barn in the Cotswolds 📍 RECOMMENDED: Our ultimate guide to UK getaways Who makes the cut? While we have stayed in some of the Airbnbs featured, we may not have been to them all. We’ve based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article

Iceland is truly a nature lover’s paradise. It’s where lava-scarred deserts, glistening glaciers and midnight auroras jostle for your attention, and the places to stay reflect that same spirit. Picture a glass cottage on a southern lava plain or a cabin perched under the aurora, just north of Akureyri. If you still need a little city livin’, a Scandi-sleek penthouse in Reykjavík’s buzzing heart is beating for you.  Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, carving through silent fjords or riding horses in the plains, your stay here matters. These Airbnbs, hand-picked by locals, are vantage points that let you inhale the wild, bold (and cold) character of Iceland. So pack your layers, lace those boots and settle into one of Iceland’s extraordinary stays. These are the kind of hideaways that will stay with you long after the trip ends.  Iceland’s best Airbnbs at a glance 👨🏻‍🤝‍👨🏽Best for a double date getaway: the log cabin for four🖌️Best interior design: the luxury villa in the valley🏡Best for cottagecore vibes: the old Icelandic cottage drenched in beauty 📍Discover the best of Reykjavik ✨ The best things to do in Iceland🏘️ The best areas to stay in Reykjavik🍴 The best restaurants in Reykjavik Who makes the cut?  While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, our writers have based our list on expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes a

You’ve decided you’re travelling to London. You’ve booked your transport and downloaded a tube map, but where to stay? You’ve probably clocked that London is one massive, sprawling city, made up of neighbourhoods that each have their own unique character. Resist the urge to panic-book a fancy hotel in London’s West End – there’s plenty more out there, we promise. Dive into the real London by branching out from the well-trodden tourist path. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of somewhere totally new. Whether you’re after lively nightlife, easy access to gorgeous green spaces, culture on your doorstop, or serious dining, you’ll find it here. Ready to get booking? Read on for our guide to the best neighbourhoods and places to stay in London.  Where to stay in London at a glance Hackney - best for living like a local Camberwell - best for hyped restaurants, bakeries and galleries Camden - best for punk living and vegan food Peckham - best for BYOBs, rooftop bars and hitting the club Shoreditch - best for vintage shopping and curry houses Chiswick - best for a tranquil getaway Dalston - best for eating, drinking and nightlife Marylebone - fine dining and luxury hotels Harringay - best for neighbourhood vibes and Turkish food Hampstead - wild swimming, cosy pubs and spotting Harry Styles Richmond - leafy walks, boutique hotels and pints by the river 📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best hotels and Airbnbs in London Ella Doyle and Rosie Hewitson are editors at

A weekend escape from the big city is definitely needed sometimes, and you don’t need to hop on a plane to find incredible places to unwind, explore and recharge. In fact, some of the best weekend getaways are just a short drive or train ride from London – all offering windswept coastal walks, charming market towns, rolling countryside, or tucked-away villages with cosy pubs and boutique stays. So, if you’re itching to swap the skyline for stargazing or trade Tube journeys for countryside rambles, let us point you in the direction of your next escape. We’ve rounded up the absolute best weekend breaks near London – all easily reachable within a couple of hours. 📌 Updated October 2025: We’ve added two stays in the trendy seaside towns of Whitstable and Margate. Both are affordable and within very easy reach of London. RECOMMENDED: Our ultimate guide to UK getaways The best Airbnb breaks near London, at a glance 🏖️ Best seaside getaway: The courtyard oasis in Margate 🌲 Best for reconnecting with nature: The woodland retreat in Northamptonshire 🏔️ Best for total isolation: The Ditchling Cabin in South Downs 💅 Best for a girl’s trip: The contemporary vineyard in Toppesfield, Essex 🛖 Most unique stay: The luxe airship in The Haven Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial conte

Berlin, Berlin! Land of a thousand döner stalls and even more places to rest your head. Berlin is a city full of contrasts – so why should its accommodation be any different? From apartments in the thick of the party to tucked-away hideouts on cherry tree-lined streets, she’s got it all. Whether you’re here to rave, wander or simply kick back, I’ll use my local know-how to get you sorted with a stay. Which area of Berlin is best to stay in? But first things first: where should you make camp? For wild nights, buzzing days and recovering with the cool kids, Kreuzberg’s got the goods. Want history and sightseeing? Mitte is central and full of big hitters like the Brandenburg Gate. After something quieter? Charlottenburg brings charm and café culture. Pick your vibe. Berlin has a Kiez for every mood. Airbnbs in Berlin at a glance 💗Best for couples: The cozy houseboat on the Spree 💶Most affordable stay: A modern studio apartment in Schöneberg 👯‍♀️Best for a group holiday: The water tower penthouse in Charlottenberg 🏰Most extraordinary stay: The castle loft in Wandlitz 👶Best for families:  The well-connected studio in Prenzlauer Berg 📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to hotels, Airbnbs and more in Berlin Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see ou

  Right in the pulse of Italy’s fashion capital, the Park Hyatt Milano combines family-friendly luxury with bold, Milanese pride. With a prime location near the city’s landmarks and fresh room renovations, this is your swanky, haute couture holiday sorted. Why stay at Park Hyatt Milano? Staying at the PHM means staying in a little piece of Milan’s fashion history. It was originally built as a palazzo in the 1870s before it was converted into the city’s very first department store, Aux Villes de Paris, (later changing the name to Aux Villes d'Italie, then the iconic La Rinascente) in 1877. After its closure, the building was transformed into the Park Hyatt Milano in 2003, and recently celebrated its 20-year anniversary with a €20 million-euro glow-up that was completed in 2022. Now, PHM provides remarkable hospitality encased in opulent Italian marble, with the vibes to match.  What is the service like at Park Hyatt Milano? Outstanding. The management and concierges know the ins-and-outs of Milan and will move mountains for you (or at least give you plenty of Mirto and panettone recommendations). There’s also tip-top room service, snazzy bartenders and nurturing spa attendants who bring you back to life.  What are the rooms like at Park Hyatt Milano? Each of the hotel’s 108 rooms are decorated with light, elegant, neutral tones and artwork that you’d fawn over in a gallery, along with heaven-sent king beds, fine, Italian bedding and blackout curtains. This includes 26 stately

If you’ve travelled through Italy, you might have seen All’Antico Vinaio’s big, bold, red signage, alerting you to their sensational sandwiches. This autumn, All’Antico opened its first UK store in Soho, marking the 48th location to sling their Florentine sandwiches worldwide. Schiacciata is a Tuscan flat bread that’s as fluffy as focaccia on the inside, but satisfyingly crisp at the crust. At All’Antico, this heaven-baked bread is cut in half and stuffed with meats, creams and cheeses that take you to the land of the Renaissance. There’s no way to look cute eating it. It’s a messy and greasy affair All’Antica’s small shop has already caused a stir on Old Compton Street. At lunch, white and blue-collar workers united by hunger pour out of the entrance and down the road. Inside, staff are efficient as hell. You immediately order at the counter, then inch your way to the register while the artists are at work. By the time you pay, your sandwich is securely wrapped and ready to go.  Deciding which sandwich to order is an excruciating task. There are 18 options, but if you’re a first timer, order La Paradiso – Italian for ‘the paradise’ and absolutely living up to its name. Slices of mortadella generously blanket a thick spread of pistachio cream and stracciatella cheese, with chopped pistachios added for extra flavour and texture. There’s no way to look cute eating it. It’s a messy and greasy affair. Same goes for the Italiana, slathered in basil pesto that drips down to stacke

You’ll find Hera, named after the queen of the Olympians, on the backside of Stratford Cross – past Westfield, past the newly opened Everyman and just opposite the new V&A East Storehouse. As soon as you think you’ve gone too far, there it is; a corner restaurant with tall glass doors and windows that make anyone who’s wandered this far want to peer in.  Inside, there’s a bar with an illuminated liquor shelf as tall as the ceiling. If Beauty and the Beast’s Belle had a penchant for booze over books, she’d roll her ladder from one side of the bar to the next in search of her top-shelf favourites.  Even more impressive is Hera’s gloriously vast dining room with chandeliers, elaborate foliage and plush booths. In the kitchen, chef Mario Salimis whips up a classically Greek-inspired menu with modern twists. The melitzano salata, diced aubergine with honey and balsamic, is a savoury delight, more so when spread thickly across any of the assorted breads at the table. The fried calamari has a perfect squid-to-batter ratio, and slivers of seabass carpaccio are fresh and silky smooth, though quite oily. Better still is the seafood orzo, one hell of a dish, with plump prawns and vibrant-orange mussels. Cocktails are interesting, too. The Arriani is Greece in a glass, with feta gin, Greek yoghurt, fig cordial. Meanwhile, the Helen of Spice is basically a mango marg with a kick. But the finest moment – as basic as it sounds – is the Greek salad. Chopped cucumbers, onions, olives, peppers

As sister venue to Hackney’s tiny wine bar Binch, Godet can easily be spotted by its peachy-pink exterior and checkered curtains. Not only are the vibes ridiculously cool, with a weekend DJ (at a reasonable volume), Godet have collabed with Ling Ling’s to serve up their epic Chinese and pan-Asian menu for the next year (think; hot and spicy tartare, Sichuan hibiscus octopus and turnip cakes, mala beef ragu with udon noodles, and steamed prawn, chicken and Thai basil wontons) to complement a small, but mighty selection of reds, whites and oranges.  

What is it? A historic theatre company and venue within Glasgow’s Gorbals neighbourhood that’s just been restored in 2025.   Why is it worth visiting? The Citizens Theatre holds some of the UK’s oldest theatrical equipment within its incredibly well-preserved Victorian auditorium, and has undergone a huge glow-up that’s been in the works since 2018. It was only supposed to take three years, but COVID and rising costs pushed its opening to August 2025. Inside the three-storey theatre, there's a spankin' brand new and more accessible foyer, a new bar, new social spaces and enhanced backstage facilities for performers. The six cherries on top are the fully restored statues of Robert Burns, Williams Shakespeare and the four Greek muses, Melpomene (tragedy), Thalia (comedy), Euterpe (song and poetry) and Terpsichore (dance) – all which were part of the original building in 1878.  How much does it cost?  Prices vary depending on production, which you can find here.  📍 Discover the best things to do in Glasgow

When you look at photos of the Generator London hostel online, I get why you might be skeptical. Google’s feature photo of the entrance isn’t the most warm and welcoming, and the rest of the images, though professionally shot, still radiate a tint of sadness from the lack of life in those colourful, yet empty rooms. But I want you to take those images and presumptions about this Bloomsbury stay and throw them in the bin as Generator is the perfect example of why one should never judge a book by its cover – or Google search.  Why stay at Generator London? Generator London opened in 1995 within what was once a secluded police station on Tavistock Place. The once family-run hostel turned into a successful European brand with quirky, urban decor and locations across the continent, including Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris and Barcelona – and three in North America too. In 2014, the London location got an impressive glow-up, leaving the stereotype of grungy, risky hostels in the past, and it’s definitely kept its reputation up since.  The lobby is a large, contemporary, eclectic space with neon welcome signs, a street art-style photo of Queen Elizabeth blowing a pink bubblegum bubble, and the front desk to the left with self-check in tablets. However, for a more personal connection (and to avoid the tablet that kept freezing) check in with the kind receptionist instead. Once you’re checked in and free to roam the property, you finally see life, and all walks of it. People of all ages hun

The thing about the travel bug is that it really does bite hard. One trip turns into two and the next thing you know, you've quit your office job, been approved for a visa and booked a ticket across the world. Okay, this might be the most extreme case of the bug, but it doesn't negate the fact that there are too many places to visit and too little time. Luckily, Travel + Leisure has narrowed down the most worthwhile spots to visit next year. The curated mix has picks for food lovers, city explorers, beach bums and nature seekers.  Food and drink In the ‘Food + Drinks’ category, T+L mentioned Malaysia as an unmissable stop. There aren't many places where breakfast traditions are classed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, but the country's savoury roti canai and sweet nasi lemak made the cut. Elsewhere, Italy's Umbria region is slowly climbing the foodie charts for its popular truffle hunting experiences in lush landscapes.    Photograph: Shutterstock City life   For big-city thrills, no longer is Seattle only known for Starbucks and overcast. The city's undergone a glorious glow-up over the past couple of decades, and is solidifying its new chapter with a new multibillion-dollar park, consisting of 20 acres that connect downtown to the coast – just in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.  Singapore also continues to impress with futuristic architecture and sustainable endeavors. It's now getting an adventure-focused zoological park and an immersive IMBA T

Fifteen destinations across six continents were represented at the World's 50 Best Vineyards awards, held in Australia's Margaret River region this week. The annual ranking is created using the votes of 700 international wine and travel experts. Their winner for 2025 is VIK, a vineyard in Chile's Millahue Valley. Ranked in second place last year, VIK is surrounded by a 4,450-hectare nature reserve and is equal parts wine producer, luxury retreat and architectural marvel. It has 327 hectares of grape vines spread across 12 microclimates, giving its wines complexity, diversity and a deep sense of terroir. The vineyard's design isn’t just practical; it’s a contemporary work of art. A bronzed titanium roof seems to float over the winery – an ode to Frank Gehry and Richard Serra. Inside, VIK’s Milla Milla restaurant offers fine South American barbecue, seafood, locally grown produce and homemade baked goods, all accompanied by VIK wines in a glass-walled space with views of its massive wine cellar. To get a 24-hour experience, guests can also stay on the property in one of the 22 themed rooms or private bungalows. If you can briefly break away from the wine, there are plenty of outdoor activities, too. Picture horseback riding in the valley, trekking or having a cosy, boozy stroll through the reserve. ‘The estate has shown exceptional dedication to creating immersive vineyard experiences, seamlessly blending innovative design within the stunning Millahue Valley landscape and offer

We all know that flying isn’t great for the planet. But what to do about it? There‘s always opting for overland travel, but not every traveller has time on their side. Short of setting annual limits for frequent flyers, adding an extra tax for air passengers is one way to help bolster decarbonisation efforts – and one Asian country is doing just that. Starting October 2026 and applying to all tickets purchased after April 1, passengers departing from Singapore will face a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) levy, the first of its kind in the world, as part of an ambitious goal to decarbonise the sky. Don't think of it as a tax. Think of it as a eco-friendly, forward-thinking step to help air travel become more sustainable across the world. So, what is this tax for? According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the levy is based on the volume of SAF needed to meet its one percent target for 2026, as well as SAF's projected price premium. While SAF is significantly more sustainable than conventional jet fuel (SAF is made from recycled oils and agricultural residue), it is also significantly more expensive to produce.  How much will travellers have to pay? Thankfully, the new charges won't break the average traveller's bank. Short routes will only charge S$1 (£0.58), while passengers on long-haul economy flights will be charged S$10.40 (£6.08). Even the highest rate, S$41.60 (£24.33) for first-class or business flights, is still significantly cheaper than paying for

Where can you find a mish-mash of bright, historic architecture, creative local art exhibitions, buzzy bars, exciting new restaurants and loud and lively samba all in one place? It can only be in Rio de Janeiro, where vibrant city street Rua do Senado has just been named the coolest in the world for 2026, according to Time Out.  Time Out’s annual ranking is created thanks to the insight of local editors and experts, who each nominated a street that represented the best of their city. The global travel team then narrowed down and ranked each street against criteria including food, drink, culture, fun and community spirit.  Rua do Senado landed in the number 1 position this year for its excellent food and drink scene, fascinating art and culture, and for generally being a whole lot of fun. The street is a gleaming representation of the country: curious, creative, joyful, proud and just downright cool. Time Out Rio de Janeiro editor Lívia Breves’ highlights include chef Lucio Vieira’s restaurant Lilia and its sister bar, Labuta, where you can enjoy ice-cold caipirinha cocktails. There are creative shows at Ateliê Bonifácio or Solar dos Abacaxis, and locals flock to the street for Saturday samba sessions at the iconic Armazém Senado.  And raising the bar even higher, Rua do Senado is getting a new Mercado Central, or central market, located within the street’s 113-year-old, bright yellow Granado factory building that will soon house over 40 new food, drink, shopping and enterta

If you've got a four-legged friend who loves the sand and sea as much as you do, then you’re not alone. Searches for ‘dog-friendly holidays’ have jumped by nearly a third in the past month, according to holiday home rental company CV Villas, and they've just crunched the numbers to reveal Europe’s most dog-friendly beaches for 2025. From windswept strips in France to sun-soaked shores in Portugal and England (yes, there is sun in England if you're lucky), these sandy spots scored top marks for temperature, terrain, and tail-wagging potential.  Recommended: The best beaches in Europe, according to Time Out France's Plage de la Salie took first place with an overall score of 90.33. The beach, located in La Teste-de-Buch in France’s Gironde region, boasts vast stretches of flat sand - perfect to get those zoomies out before going for a dip in the clear waters of the Bay of Biscay.  Second place went to Praia do Cabedelo in Darque, Portugal, which has equally long shores, making it ideal for walks and games of fetch. If your pooch is especially talented (you've seen those viral videos of dogs on surfboards, right?), the area’s strong winds make for great surfing and kitesurfing sessions. Cabedelo’s beach scene is laidback, but leashes are still required to respect those around you and will help other beachgoers and your pet stay safe.  Photograph: Shutterstock The third most dog-friendly beach in Europe is in England, specifically Holkham Beach within Holkham National Nature Re

Whoever said ‘more money, more problems’ never had to endure the financial risk of booking a holiday with unpaid leave through irrational company procedures. Luckily, some countries have laws that make paid time off not only available to their workers, but a requirement – easing the mind and wallets of employees while they take a bit of R&R.  But which countries have the most enviable set-up when it comes to annual leave? Payroll and HR supplier Moorepay has analysed statutory PTO and public holidays across the globe to find the destinations with the best benefits for their workers, as well as the countries coming up short.  Recommended: The island nation named the best country for work-life balance (again) The country with the most paid days off is Yemen, with a whole month and a half (46 days) of paid leave and public holidays available for workers. Libya (45), Bahrain (44) and Austria (43) follow suit with well over a month off, with Monaco ranking as the fifth best option with 42 days.  The country with the least amount of paid time off goes to the United States, and by ‘least’, we mean zero. The US has no federal law that requires workers to receive paid vacation or public holidays. The ‘land of the free’ is followed by Japan with 10 total days, Guyana with 12 and Liberia and the Philippines with 16.  While the UK offers 28 days, its European neighbours France, Sweden, Iceland, Finland and Italy offer over 35 paid days off, offering a better work-life balance and much be

Living the digital nomad life ain’t too shabby – if you do it right, that is. Think appropriate, ethical accommodation, ever-changing work spaces, a chance to build a new little community for yourself and the freedom to explore the world. While some countries aren’t yet convinced of the lifestyle, others are embracing it with open arms and temporary visas, allowing people from overseas the opportunity to roam while contributing the country’s tourism economy.  So, which countries are embracing the nomadic way of life? Well, Instant Offices, a global company that helps businesses secure workspaces, has researched the best cities for remote workers according to connectivity, affordability and weather, the city which ranked top of it’s list with a total score of 52.11 would be Dubai. Its futuristic backdrop, sparkling beaches, low crime rates and world-class cultural experiences - whether it be dining, art galleries, museums or music festivals - offers remote workers an afterwork urban playground that never gets old. As for co-working spaces, there are plenty of options to help get into work mode while exploring the city of gold. Recommended: All the countries offering digital nomad visas in 2025.  Dubai’s digital nomad visa gives travellers the chance to work remotely for an employer or business based outside the UAE for one year (with the possibility to renew) as long as you show proof of employment and a monthly income of $3,500 (€2,998). Oh, and did we mention that it’s tax f

Mountain climbing is a serious hobby (which can cost you some serious cash) but in an exciting announcement, the Nepalese government just shared that it plans to make 97 Himalayan mountains free to climb for the next two years. Now that’s a serious deal.  But, why is this happening? Well, despite Nepal having over 490 summits to hike (including eight of the world’s 10 highest peaks), most climbers flock to the same select few. Mountain-climbing is a huge industry in Nepal, and Everest brought in three quarters of the country’s $5.9m revenue last year, according to the BBC. However, from September, it’s thought the fees to climb it will soar up to $15,000. So, the government is keen to give other mountains their time in the spotlight, and it hopes the strategy will spread that the income received from overcrowded peaks to lesser-known, hidden Himalayan gems like the regions Karnali and Sudurpaschim, where a good chunk of these 97 mountains stand. They’re also two of the least developed regions in the country.  Just last year, Mount Everest saw 421 climbers, whereas the 97 other mountains only saw 68 in total. It’s caused overcrowding and environmental concerns, forcing the government to implement a new rule that future Everest climbers must show proof that they’ve scaled at least one 7,000-meter-plus mountain in Nepal first.  By opening these new summits, climbers will not only get the experience needed, they’ll also pay a fraction of the cost while still financially assisting

In a scorching, record-breaking summer, Greece continues to burn from rapid wildfires that are ravaging the mainland and its popular holiday islands. High temperatures, thick smoke and long-lasting embers provoked by strong winds have created life-threatening scenes that have led to evacuations of thousands of locals. With such a threat weighing in on summer holidays, it’s no doubt that travellers are concerned about their holidays. That’s why we’ve been keeping up to date on all the latest news regarding the wildfires across Europe. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags. Where are the wildfires in Greece?  The latest wildfires were reported Wednesday, and blazed through the outskirts of Patras, the country’s third largest city, as well as the tourist islands of Chios and Zakynthos, and in at least other three inland locations.  In the past month, fires have ravaged regions near Athens, Petralona, Atheras, Faraklata, and Protopappas, and continue to spread through the mainland and islands. Is it safe to travel?  This really depends on your destination. If you had travel plans for Patras, fires have ripped through nearby olive groves, forests, a cement factory and an entire car yard of over 500 cars. According to Reuters, authorities have evacuated almost 8,000 people and continue to issue alerts for nearby villages.  Flames in Chios have also forced the coast guard to evacuate locals to safety by boat, and the situation has gotten so now reached a point that

When you think of night buses, images of cramped seats and constant jolting making all the luggage slip around spring to mind, but we’ve got some exciting news. Swiss company Twiliner just unveiled its new line of night buses, and thankfully, they’re nothing like that. These buses are bougie. Set to launch in November in Zurich, the operator will offer two new overnight routes: Zurich-Basel-Luxembourg-Brussels-Rotterdam-Amsterdam and Zurich-Girona-Barcelona. Each bus fits 21 travellers, 18 up top and three on bottom, with seats that recline all the way down to proper beds, allowing for comfortable, sleepy transit. Buses will also include toilets, wifi, electric outlets, and a private space for passengers to change clothes and spruce up before disembarking.  Image: Remo Vettori Image: Remo Vettori They will operate several times a week for the first few months of travel, but Twiliner has announced that that will soon be adjusted according to demand. In fact, Twiliner CEO, Luca Bortolani, hopes these luxe buses will run daily by next year, targeting sustainable travellers or those with the aversion of flying. Sounds pretty cool, right? Well, there is a catch. A single ticket from Zurich to Brussels will likely set you back €180. Why? ‘We are offering a unique product,’ said Bortolani to VRT NWS. ‘The number of passengers is limited, but we need two drivers per route. They could also choose the train, but the train is also expensive and night trains are often overbooked.’ So

Are you under 30 and with a serious case of European wanderlust? Well, Time Out surveyed 18,500 locals from across the world and consulted a panel of experts to find out which cities are the best of the best based on food, culture, green spaces, walkability and nightlife. But not every generation thinks the same, so we took those answers and sorted them by age to find out which cities are the most popular cities among their Gen-Z inhabitants. Bangkok claimed the worldwide crown, but our top 20 was dominated by hubs from all over Europe, with Copenhagen claiming first place. One of the happiest places on earth, according to the 2025 Happy City Index, Copenhagen received consistent high praise for safety, stability, education, public transport, health care and all around quality of life. No wonder 64 percent of Gen-Zers living there approve.  Recommended: These are the best cities in the world for nightlife, according to Time Out.  There’s loads to do, after all. It’s Denmark’s cultural hub with a plethora of museums, markets, castles and palaces housed in Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical architecture. There are also large parks like the King’s Garden or Dyrehaven, a forest that’s home to thousands of deer; a delicious food scene of seasonal Nordic cuisine (smørrebrød, anyone?), and a great bar scene, too.  Second place is awarded to the Spain’s second city, Barcelona. Who can resist the trippy Gaudi structures, hot, succulent tapas and overflowing sangria? Certainly not t

It’s tricky planning an island getaway when everyone is getting away to the same place. Not only does that result in higher travel costs, longer queues and wait times, but it threatens the dream of tranquil isolation. Yes, we know that no man is an island, but hey, it’s nice to pretend once in a while.  To help us live the dream, car hire company Avis studied the search volume and Instagram hashtags of island destinations to uncover the busiest ones and find their alternatives. So where is the best island to to really get away? That would be Lesbos, Greece’s third largest island perched near Türkiye in the Aegean sea. Summer temperatures average at 25-30C. The waters? Clear, clean and blue. Lesbos also offers all the things its more popular sister islands like Mykonos, Santorini or Paros would like charming fishing towns, epic seafood, ancient architecture and an active nightlife, but without all the crowds.  Recommended: The best beaches in Europe, according to Time Out.  Molyvos, Lesbos’s capital, ticks all those boxes. Stay at the Sea Horse Hotel right on the harbour before embarking on a journey to Molkyvos castle, which sits pretty on a hilltop surrounded by evergreen pines and the most idyllic view of the town and sea.    The second most underrated and secluded island is Porto Santo in Portugal. Less than a two-hour flight from Lisbon, Porto Santo is the smallest inhabited island of the Madeira Archipelago and known for its golden-hued, sandy beaches and phenomenal divi