Europes

Sylt, Germany

Connected to the German mainland by a single rail causeway, Sylt is just over three hours from Hamburg by direct train. The largest of the North Frisian islands, it slices through the North Sea and the Wadden Sea, with salt marshes and mudflats to the east and 25 miles of white sands sweeping along the western coast, grassy dunes buffering the bracing winds.

Relatively unknown to UK visitors, the island has long been a popular destination for Germans and appeals to an affluent crowd, although not exclusively. Luxury hotels and pioneering health resorts sit side by side with multistorey apartment blocks, modest campsites and laid-back surfing schools.

Trains from Hamburg – soon to be upgraded with the new intercity (ICE L) fleet – arrive in Westerland, the largest town on the island, which expanded significantly during the 60s and 70s. Alternative bases include well-heeled Kampen or Keitum, the latter known for its maritime history and traditional thatched houses. Designated nature reserves cover other parts of the island, from the shifting dunes in List to the vast Braderup Heath, partly managed by a hardy breed of sheep.

Grab a coffee from Kaffeerösterei Sylt, order the herring sandwich from Hafenkiosk 24 and don’t miss the salty Sylter Royal oysters from Germany’s only commercial oyster farm. The restaurant Oma Wilma focuses on hearty fare, while the shop and bistro Käseklub, located on an old goat farm, serves a curated selection of cheeses.
Where to stay: Villa Klasen is a recently renovated boutique hotel in a charming art-nouveau style building with doubles from €120 B&B
Kate Mann

Sherkin, Ireland

It takes an hour and three-quarters by car, plus another 10 minutes by ferry, to get from Cork city, with its lively markets and revelrous pubs, to the relative tranquillity of Sherkin, one of the seven inhabited islands off the coast of West Cork.

None of these islands is especially large – the biggest, Bere Island, takes up about seven square miles – but they are all remarkably different, from sheltered little Garinish with its fine Edwardian gardens, to the ruggedness of Dursey, exposed to the elements at the tip of the Beara peninsula.

Sherkin is the one I know best. A few years back, I joined a group of friends who go there for a fortnight every summer, staying at a simple but appealing retreat called Sherkin North Shore. The kids do sailing courses down on Roaringwater Bay while the adults generally lounge around and enjoy life in a lower gear. There’s a sauna and a cafe where owner Michael O’Connor and his family cook terrific communal dinners. They also stage a (by all reports excellent) music festival, Open Ear, on the June bank holiday weekend.

Sherkin has three marked walking trails, taking you through the lush interior to white-sand beaches and a stunning horseshoe-shaped cove. Down towards the harbour, you’ll find the island’s only pub, the Jolly Roger, which serves chowder and toasties, and hosts music sessions in the busier months. And dotted around the island are artists’ studios (opening times vary, but you can call ahead to arrange a visit).

The buzzy mainland town of Baltimore is the gateway to Sherkin and also to Cape Clear farther south.

The other islands all have separate access points. For Heir or Hare Island, drive to Cunnamore Pier, half an hour west of Baltimore, and hop across on the ferry. You’ll be rewarded in the summer months by a brilliant restaurant and cookery school called Island Cottage – I had the good fortune to go for lunch in 2019 and the food was hearty and delicious.
Where to stay: Sherkin North Shore has rooms from €65 a night per adult, €30 for under-13s) and camping from €80 for a bell tent, €15 for a pitch
Killian Fox

Torcello, Italy

Venice is a city full of attractions, from its beautiful bridges to its Renaissance galleries and hidden spots to enjoy cicchetti or small plates. After a few days, however, the narrow streets and winding canals packed with tourists often spur a desire to escape the island. For many that will mean a trip to Murano, famous for its glass-making heritage, or even Burano, with its wildly coloured houses, both a short boat journey away. But for a real change of pace, switch to a smaller boat at Burano for the short ride to the sparsely populated island of Torcello, at the northern end of the Venetian lagoon.

The first thing that strikes you as you disembark is the sense of space. Following a wide path through the centre of the island, with water on one side and trees on the other, will bring you past green fields and quaint houses to the Ponte del Diavolo, or devil’s bridge, a rare example of an old Venetian bridge without parapets. If you find yourself feeling peckish, stop off at Taverna Tipica Veneziana, where you can get a selection of fried seafood and vegetarian meals. If you sit in the garden, you can see the restaurant’s goats and guinea pigs.

Continuing on the path will lead you to the main attraction: the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639. It is unassuming from the outside, but the interior walls are decorated with stunning 11th-century mosaics, including a depiction of the last judgment.

Finish your visit by enjoying an ice-cream next to the church by the water’s edge, before retracing your steps back to the buzz of the city or, better still, stay overnight to enjoy the peace of the island once the day trippers have left.

Where to stay: Junior Suites Venezia has a restaurant, coffee shop, garden and doubles from £183 for a two-night stay
Kitty Croft

Frioul islands, France

Just 20 minutes by boat from the Vieux Port of Marseille, the Frioul islands, part of the protected Calanques national park, make a great day trip from the city – but it’s even better to stay longer to enjoy the wild beauty.

The two main islands, Rattoneau and Pomègues (each about 1.5 miles long), are linked by a 19th-century dyke, and hiking trails wind across the white limestone landscape to secluded swimming coves, pretty creeks and viewpoints back across the sparkling Med to town.

The ferry arrives at Rattoneau, where a few restaurants, shops and houses cluster around the harbour. Eat here or stock up on supplies, as there’s little elsewhere. Ou Sinon restaurant is a good choice for fresh seafood (try organic sea bass farmed on Pomègues).

About half an hour on foot from the port, Saint-Estève is the biggest beach on Rattoneau – sheltered, sandy and good for snorkelling (and there’s a small bar). Nearby, the 19th-century Hôpital Caroline, once used to quarantine travellers, is sometimes used for concerts today, while the old fort and second world war bunkers reveal the islands’ strategic importance. Across on Pomègues, it’s worth taking the long hike to the picturesque, remote cove Calanque de la Crine.

There are two other islands in the archipelago: tiny, rocky Tiboulen, used mostly for diving, and If island, home to a 16th-century fortress turned prison, the Château d’If (made famous by Alexandre Dumas’s The Count of Monte Cristo). Some ferries stop here en route to Rattoneau.
Where to stay: accommodation is limited to mainly rental apartments near the harbour. La Daurade du Frioul is a one-bed apartment right on the beach, from £70 a night
Jane Dunford

Cíes islands, Spain

For a Caribbean-like break on a camping budget, it’s hard to beat the car-free Cíes islands in north-western Spain. This archipelago off the Galician city of Vigo has the white-sand beaches, the turquoise sea and even the exclusivity – visitor numbers are limited as the islands are part of a national park, and overnight stays are allowed only at Easter and in summer (15 May to 14 September). Admittedly, the illusion is shattered when dipping a toe in the chilly Atlantic …

To reach the islands, visitors must request a free authorisation code up to 90 days in advance (at autorizacionillasatlanticas.xunta.gal), then use it to buy a boat ticket (details at turismodevigo.org). There are daily crossings from Vigo to Monteagudo island (45 minutes), which is linked to Faro island by a sandbar across a lagoon; the third island, San Martiño, can only be reached by private boat.

Rodas, the biggest beach, is a short walk from the pier, and has kayaks and snorkels to rent – there are no tropical fish, but plenty of octopuses, lobsters and crabs, and often bottlenose dolphins. Seven quieter beaches can be discovered along four hiking trails, which link lighthouses, viewpoints, forests and a bird observatory. The beachside Restaurante Playa de Rodas specialises in seafood – scallops, razor clams, Galician barnacles – and local albariño wine.
Where to stay: Camping Islas Cíes on Faro island has an excellent restaurant, tents with beds and pitches from €10.90, plus €10.90 per adult, €7.90 per child, booking essential
Rachel Dixon

Forget Paris and Venice for an intimate getaway, as there’s another city that has been ranked as the most romantic in Europe, with rooftop bars to catch the sunset and a serene boating lake

Europe’s most romantic city has been named, but it’s not where you might think.

Paris, France, has long been hailed as the ‘city of love’, with proposals in the masses, while Venice, Italy, offers sunset gondola rides along the canals. Yet, according to one new ranking, they’ve both been overshadowed as the most romantic cities in Europe.

Instead, the sun-soaked capital of Spain, Madrid, has taken the crown with its historic charm and intimate settings. There are cosy restaurants, rooftop bars, luxury hotels, along with majestic landmarks, vibrant street art, and passionate flamenco performances, all making for a truly spectacular getaway.

Some of the most notable places to visit include hiring a rowing boat on the serene, picturesque lake at El Retiro Park, or taking a leisurely stroll around the enchanting El Capricho Park or the beautiful Sabatini Gardens at the Royal Palace. The city offers some of the best spots to catch the sunset, including the restaurant Azotea del Círculo, which offers panoramic views from its rooftop terrace, and the gardens in Cerro del Tío Pío, perfect for a sunset stroll.

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However, one popular area that has been hailed as the ‘best sunset spot in Madrid’ is the ancient Egyptian temple, Templo de Debod. Catching the sunset last year, one traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “The magic hour to visit is sunset!.. The temple’s ancient stones turn a rich orange, and the reflective pools surrounding it create a mirror effect that is a photographer’s dream.”

For a break away from exploring the city, there’s the Arab baths at Hammam Al Ándalus for a relaxing soak and a step back in time among its historic buildings, or lively flamenco shows at Corral de la Morería. Couples can enjoy a glass of wine and tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel, a fresh food market, or ride the cable car, the Teleférico de Madrid, which crosses the river.

But a stroll around the city is enough to leave you enchanted, with vibrant graffiti decorating its quaint streets lined with tapas bars and coffee shops, and magnificent architecture. From the iconic Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, and Puerta del Sol square, to the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, it’s easy to spend hours exploring this bustling yet charming city.

Madrid was named the most romantic European city following research by Icelandair. The airline analysed data from various European cities, comparing their location, nightlife, single population, inclusivity and happiness, along with Tripadvisor romance ratings and sunset visibility, with Madrid topping the list.

The list proves even more valuable, as Icelandair found that 1 in 10 Brits, in a study of 3,000 people, said travel is the best way to meet a partner. Meanwhile, 1 in 5 Brits said they’ve fallen in love while flying, and further research found that most holiday romances occur while volunteering abroad, during a work trip, or while solo travelling.

Most romantic European cities

1. Madrid, Spain
2. Prague, Czech Republic
3. Lisbon, Portugal
4. Barcelona, Spain
5. Zurich, Switzerland
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
7. Helsinki, Finland
8. Vienna, Austria
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
10. Rome, Italy
11. Athens, Greece
12. Geneva, Switzerland
13. Oslo, Norway
14. Berlin, Germany
15. Reykjavik, Iceland

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

WHILE prices for the most popular Mediterranean resorts keep ­rising, you can get the same ­turquoise seas, mountain drives and warm hospitality in Albania – for a fraction of the cost.

Visit in the shoulder season and you’ll enjoy golden light and near-empty beaches at an unhurried pace.

Flying in to capital Tirana makes a good start for a road trip to explore the country.

Pick up a hire car at the airport and within minutes you’re twisting through mountain passes, gliding along coastal bays and pulling over in centuries-old towns.

Highways are good, but off the main roads expect to be swerving around goats and making stunning switchback turns. It’s all part of the adventure.

Your first major stop is the Unesco World Heritage town of Berat.

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White Ottoman houses stack up the hillside like sugar cubes, their wooden shutters glinting in the sun, giving it the nickname “city of a thousand windows”.

You can stay inside the Berat castle walls, living among ancient ramparts while children play football in cobbled lanes and grandmothers sell olive oil at their doorsteps.

It feels like stepping into another century.

Just outside Berat lies Alpeta Winery, run by the Fiska family.

The vineyards grow local grape varieties and the owner, Peter, walks among the tables at dinner, greeting guests and sharing his stories of the vines.

The wine-tasting tour takes you through reds, whites and fruit brandy rakia, ­partnered with local cheeses and olive oil.

This is Albania’s farm-to-table story in full swing.

After this, most tourists seeking sun and sea will race to Saranda, but Vlora makes a brilliant, less crowded alternative.

From here, you’re just a short drive from the Green Coast, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

Turquoise coves framed by pine-covered hills and crystal-clear shallows rival anywhere in the Med.

Back in the capital, Tirana surprises with its creative energy, street art and cafes.

Park in the vibrant Blloku district.

Once reserved for the elite, it’s now buzzing with nightlife, bars and restaurants.

The city is dotted with thousands of Cold War-era bunkers which have been cleverly repurposed into museums, cafes and art spaces.

Don’t miss Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2, immersive museums that give a striking insight into Albania’s communist past.

And be sure to climb the Pyramid of ­Tirana, a former communist landmark now converted into a lookout offering panoramic city views.

After dark, the city comes alive.

I went to Albania Night, and it is hands down one of the maddest immersive cultural shows I’ve experienced.

Guests can dress up in traditional ­Albanian outfits, dance until their feet nearly give out and become part of the ­performance.

Albania is evolving fast.

Live music, laughter and street-side festivities turn ­Tirana into a playground of culture and energy.

There are new coastal roads, boutique hotels are appearing in heritage towns — and word is starting to spread.

But key to its appeal is that it still feels under the radar.

Albania isn’t the “new Croatia” or the “next Greece”.

It’s got its own story — ­rugged, authentic and full of surprises.

From fortress towns perched on hillsides to empty coves by the sea, and from vineyard dinners to city nights that refuse to quit, you can have the kind of road trip that really stays with you.

If you’re chasing adventure, authenticity and excellent value for money, Albania is waiting, keys in the ignition.

IF YOU are thinking about where to visit on your next UK staycation, 17 UK cities have just been named among the best in Europe.

A report revealing Europe‘s best cities for 2026 has been released and 17 UK cities feature including the ‘Athens of the North’, one of the best cities in Europe for weather and the UK’s ‘newest second city’.

Cities across Europe were ranked across several categories using data from numerous sites such as social media and core statistics.

The categories include Livability, which looks at things such as biking options, public transport, air quality and green spaces; Lovability which looks at Instagram posts, theatres, museums and reviews and Prosperity, which looks at airports, business systems and universities – here are all of the UK entries.

London – 1st

Coming out on top of all 100 cities, is the UK’s capital – London.

Dubbed the ‘Capital of Capitals’, London secured the top position in three of the 34 subcategories, which was the most out of any city, including Prosperity and Lovability.

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It also came second on the Livability index.

The index states: “London’s magnetic appeal continues to draw a global audience, from students and entrepreneurs to tourists and corporate titans.”

The report notes how London & Partners’ Tourism Vision has set ambitious goals of making London the most visited, sustainable and diverse global city destination by 2030.

Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners said: “2026 is another year to watch for London, as the capital city undergoes major growth and transformation including the opening of two major museums (London Museum and V&A East), new theatres and world-first events like Pro Climbing League.

“London is truly Europe’s global city: with a trillion-dollar economy, more green space than any city on the continent and unrivalled connections to the rest of the world.”

Edinburgh – 23rd

The capital of Scotland is the second location in the UK to feature on the list, with the index noting how it is “rich with history” and “ambitiously
planning for the future“.

Dubbing it the “Athens of the North”, the index commended Edinburgh for its work to become net-zero by 2030.

In in particular, it highlighted how it is the second-most visited city in the UK after London thanks to its “cinematic views, among the freshest air in Europe (fourth for Air Quality), an array of sights (including its famed castle), and a happening citizenry that puts on the world’s premier Fringe Festival each year”.

The city is also planning 17 more hotels by 2028 as it prepares to host the start of the Tour de France in 2027.

Manchester – 27th

Naming Manchester “England‘s worker bee city”, the report highlights how the city boasts both industrial history and literary history as a UNESCO City of Literature.

The city’s opening of the 23,500-seat Co-op Live arena in 2024 – the largest indoor arena in the UK – has helped Manchester attract one million fans in less than a year.

In addition, the city was noted for its regeneration projects such as Old Trafford and its expansion of its airport, ranking it in the top five for connectivity in Europe.

Other top things to do in the city include heading to The Lowry which houses L.S. Lowry’s paintings and exploring Gothic architecture such as the John Rylands Library.

Glasgow – 51st

Described as “Scotland’s artful, urban heart”, Glasgow placed 51st.

The vibrant city that is the home of Scottish Opera, Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland is a former European Capital of Culture.

It is also a top city for music and its tourism is on the rise, with around five million overnight visitors staying in the city in 2024, a 20 per cent increase from 2023.

If visiting the city, make sure to head to its free museums like the Burrell Collection and do a bit of shopping on Buchanan Street.

Bristol – 56th

Highlighting its creative industry, the report named Bristol in 56th place.

Stand out features of the city include the opening of the YTL Arena at Brabazon Hangars in 2028, which will be on the city’s former Filton Airfield which was once home to Concorde.

The venue will include a festival hall, community hub, food hall, work spaces and leisure facilities.

If heading to the city, make sure to explore the street art and try and look out for pieces by Banksy…

Birmingham – 57th

Following Bristol in 57th place is Birmingham.

According to the report, few cities entertain like Birmingham does, “where
classic pubs and underground clubs power a happening nightlife scene, ranked 23rd in Europe”.

And the city has a number of new projects in the works include the Powerhouse Stadium, which will be a 62,000-seat arena and the future home of Birmingham City Football Club.

If you love chocolate, make sure to visit Cadbury World.

Liverpool – 66th

The city of Liverpool placed 66th on the table with its cultural quarters and regeneration works noted.

Projects in the city include the regeneration of the North Docks and the revitalisation of the city’s International Slavery Museum.

The city’s nightlife is also great, with a range of pubs and bars scoring it 16th best for nightlife in Europe.

If you are a fan of The Beatles, you can head to The Beatles Story, which is the world’s largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the band.

Oxford – 68th

The historic university city of Oxford came in at 68th.

Under an hour from London on the train, Oxford is home to Europe’s best university.

The city is also home to historic pubs and fascinating architecture, including Gothic spires.

In addition the report noted how the city is “an understated green space gem” with several connections to famous literary figures such as CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien.

Many of the historic buildings in the city and on the university campus offer tours such as the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.

Leeds – 71st

In 71st place is Leeds – described as being “ripe for fun and investment”.

Currently, the city is undergoing a massive terminal expansion at its airport to accommodate visitor demand.

And the city has a number of other visitor-focused projects, with Premier Inn opened a 143-room hotel atop Leeds City Market.

When in the city, visit the Victorian Corn Exchange to discover independent boutiques.

Sheffield – 82nd

The city that George Orwell once called “the ugliest town in the Old World” is now “Yorkshire’s brainy, prosperous hub” according to the report.

Placing 82nd, the report celebrates Sheffield for its “glassy university centres, myriad green spaces, and some of the cleanest air in Europe (32nd)”.

Close to the city, you can also head to the Peak District National Park for walks and amazing views of the countryside.

Nottingham – 83rd

One place behind Sheffield is Nottingham in 83rd place.

The city is currently undergoing a number of ambitious projects including the development of the €1.61billion Island Quarter, which will feature restaurants, an events hall and homes.

As the “Home of English Sport”, the city also has a plethora of great pubs to explore.

Make sure to check out the City of Caves when in Nottingham – it boasts over 800 caves hand-carved into the sandstone.

Southampton – 85th

Coming in 85th place is Southampton.

Dubbed the “rising star of England’s southern coast”, Southampton has a lots of maritime history, including being the departure point for the Titanic.

And you’re not short of green space in the city either, with 11 Green Flag-certified parks.

Another spot worth exploring in the city is Tudor House and Gardens, which is Southampton’s most important historic building.

Belfast – 89th

Placing 89th is Belfast in Northern Ireland.

The city which is famous for the Titanic, is also undergoing one of Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration projects as Titanic Quarter.

The redeveloped area will include a new addition to the Titanic Museum and establishing the former Bank of Ireland into a new visitor attraction.

Portsmouth – 95th

Scooping up 95th place is Portsmouth.

This year, the seaside city will see the reopening of Hilsea Lido as well as a number of other coastal projects that will create more green spaces and public areas.

Also this year, Portsmouth 100 will kick off to celebrate the century of the destination being a city.

It will be a year-long celebration with a number of exhibitions and events.

Coventry – 98th

Securing 98th place is Coventry, with “the third-best weather in Europe”, according to the report.

The city is currently working on a City Centre project as well, which should create a new district in the heart of the city.

One top spot to explore in the city are the ruins of the Cathedral.

Cardiff – 99th

Coming in at 99th is Cardiff, which according to the report could be the UK’s new second city.

Being the closest European capital to London via train (under two hours), the city has a lot to offer including mountains, beaches and castles.

And the city’s station will start a massive rebuild this year set to cost €162million.

The city is also home to a number of recent projects including the regeneration of Cardiff Bay and The Bay Wetlands.

Another new project is Atlantic Wharf which will feature new homes, hotels and an indoor arena set to open in 2028m along with a 120-room floating hotel.

Newcastle – 100th

Last but not least and securing the final spot on the table, is Newcastle.

Just two-and-a-half hours from London by train, Newcastle features a number of new attractions.

For example, you can head to Freight Island, with street-food and events.

EasyJet has also launched a new base at Newcastle Airport, adding 11 flight routes.

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This European city has topped a poll of the top 10 greenest cities with a 77.3 score based on air quality, green spaces and public parks

Travel needs for Brits looking for a holiday are changing and one search term in particular has surged by a staggering 9,900% in the last year – the ‘greenest city in the world’.

Research has suggested people are picking cities to visit that blend exploration with outdoor relaxation and open green spaces. If that sounds like a combination too-good-to-be true, it turns out it isn’t with many cities across the world classed as ‘nature rich’.

The travel pros at Iglu Cruise have developed a Green City Index which charts the top 10 cities where nature and urban life combine. Based on the amount of greenery in each city, air quality, and accessible public green space, they have discovered a European city has topped the poll – and it’s only a two-hour flight away.

Oslo, the capital city of Norway, came first with a green score of 77.3 because of its high air quality and a high percentage of green spaces and public parks.

A staggering 95% of residents in Oslo live within a 300-metre walk of a green area, making it one of Europe’s most walkable capitals and a city that feels like you’re living in a national park.

The city also has an initiative scheme called ‘pocket parks’ which have been developed through community-led efforts to transform old parking spaces into green areas. In addition, Oslo has the world’s first ‘bee highway’ – a corridor of flowers and bee hotels running across the city’s streets which gives tourists a unique experience of stunning Norwegian nature only minutes away.

The city also boasts well-known sites including the Royal Palace Park and Vigeland Park, which is the largest sculpture park in the world created by a single artist.

Visitors can take a 20-minute metro ride out of the city centre to Oslomarka forest and the trails around Sognsvann Lake.

There are also well-known sites like the Royal Palace Park and Vigeland Park, the largest sculpture park in the world created by a single artist. A 20-minute metro ride from the city centre takes you to Oslomarka forest and the trails around Sognsvann Lake.

There are also a number of impressive beaches in Oslo, primarily located on the Bygdoy peninsula which offers sandy shores, green spaces and is easy to access from the city centre. The most popular beach is the bustling Huk which has sandy spots, grassy lawns and a beach volleyball court. For a quieter experience, visitors can go to Paradisbukta or urban Tjuvholmen which are ideal beaches for swimming, sunbathing and walking alongside the Oslo Fjord in the summer.

Other green cities in Europe included Vilnius in Lithuania, Helskini in Finland and Vienna in Austria in second, third and fourth place while Reading was the only entry for the UK in at ninth place.

Canberra and Sydney in Australia and Singapore flew the flag internationally in fifth, sixth and eighth spots with Stockholm in Sweden in seventh and Munich in Germany rounding out the list at ten.

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ONE of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean will soon be getting new flights from just £14.99.

There’s a reason Sicily, Italy, is dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’, with its soft sand beaches, clear waters and warm climate.

And now, one city on the island – referred to as the ‘city on two seas’ due to its centre sitting on a peninsula with the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south and west – will be getting new flights from Bournemouth Airport.

Ryanair will launch new flights to Trapani in Sicily from the end of March.

The first flight from Bournemouth Airport to Trapani will take off on March 31, costing £60.59 each way.

Though, if you wait a bit, the fares get cheaper – for example, you could fly on April 7 for £14.99 one-way.

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Sun Travel found that the airline will be flying to the Sicilian destination twice a week, with one flight on Tuesdays and another on Saturdays.

Trapani sits on the west coast of Sicily and is well-known for its historic old town and harbour.

Throughout the city visitors can explore Baroque architecture, especially in the old town, Centro Storico.

Here you will find a maze of narrow alleyways that you would expect of any charming old town, but what makes it particularly special is Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

This is the main street in the old town and is home to unique pottery shops where you might even catch the store owners painting the ceramics.

It’s on this street that you will also find the city’s cathedral, Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.

Don’t miss Piazza Mercato either, a sprawling square which used to be the home of the city’s main fish market for over a century.

There are a lot of famous landmarks in the city too, such as Torre di Ligny which was a watchtower and is now a museum.

You can also see the Saline di Trapani salt pans, which is a protected nature reserve.

In total, the pans span across 2,400 acres and dates back to the 12th century when they were used to harvest sea salt.

If you prefer the beach, you can visit Spiaggia delle Mura di Tramontana, which has the “clearest water in Sicily” according to one visitor.

Along the beach is the old Spanish wall, which you can walk along – providing a great spot to catch the Italian sunset.

If you happen to visit the city during Easter, look out for the Processione dei Misteri, which is a famous, 24-hour long religious event that dates back to the 17th century.

There are plenty of places to stay in Trapani, including the four-star Hotel Punta Tipa which overlooks the beach and costs from £73 a night.

If you want to have access to a spa during your stay, then head to Palazzo Gatto Art Hotel and Spa, costing from £127 per night.

When exploring Trapani, you can expect to pay around €50 (£43.58) for a three-course meal for two people and if you add a beer, that will set you back an additional €3.75 (£3.27).

The city is just an hour by car from Palermo as well, if you wanted to spend more time exploring Sicily.

The new flights are one of 20 new routes that have been announced for this summer from Bournemouth Airport.

Other holiday destinations include Alicante and Malaga in Spain and Edinburgh in Scotland.

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This beautiful city is considered one of Europe’s sunniest destinations, with direct flights from the UK starting from as little as £20

Britain’s dreary weather has us fantasising about a sunshine-filled break, and there’s one European destination that ranks amongst the warmest spots to visit in March, boasting pleasant 21C temperatures.

At this point in the calendar, it’s tempting to believe we must splash out on a lengthy long-haul journey to some far-flung tropical paradise to soak up scorching heat. However, several mild European locations deliver welcoming sunshine during Britain’s chillier months, including the stunning Spanish city of Seville.

Under three hours from Britain, Andalusia’s capital features delightful narrow lanes adorned with orange trees, magnificent Moorish-influenced architecture and celebrated landmarks that prove just as breathtaking in reality as in photographs. Seville holds the distinction of being amongst Europe’s sunniest cities, blessed with sunshine throughout the year.

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There’s no shortage of activities and attractions during a Seville getaway, though its architecture remains a particular highlight. Among its most renowned is the Alcázar of Seville, the city’s Royal Palace, showcasing Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque influences, which famously appeared in Game of Thrones.

OPINION

Amy Jones

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Another must-see is the Catedral de Sevilla, amongst the world’s largest cathedrals, boasting a royal chapel and the Giralda tower, which provides sweeping vistas across the vibrant city. The Setas de Sevilla, nicknamed the ‘Mushrooms of Seville’, is another eye-catching monument – a massive timber structure featuring a rooftop walkway that’s become a popular spot for visitors hoping to catch Seville’s stunning sunset.

The sun-drenched city also offers Santa Cruz, the historic Jewish quarter characterised by blossom-lined streets and golden buildings, alongside Seville’s celebrated Parque de María Luisa, which runs alongside the peaceful Guadalquivir River. One of the city’s most iconic spots is the renowned Plaza de España, situated within Maria Luisa park, which features a moat crossed by four bridges representing Spain’s ancient kingdoms, plus 52 tiled benches depicting different Spanish provinces.

A visitor who explored Plaza de España last month wrote on TripAdvisor: “This is a beautiful place, the buildings are immense, the history amazing, and the atmosphere is superb. I visited twice on our recent trip once early morning and I was the only person and once on a sunny afternoon with my wife. The difference in feelings was great, but both were unforgettable experiences. A must when visiting Seville.”

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Wandering through this stunning city is effortless, with its iconic architecture and rich heritage seamlessly woven into its lively, acclaimed culture. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Flamenco performances and experience the buzzing nightlife, whilst welcoming eateries serve up Spain’s finest culinary offerings through their famous tapas, and bars pour their distinctive orange wine.

Whilst summer temperatures can be blistering, particularly when sightseeing, a trip during the opening months of the year brings pleasant 21C warmth, making it a perfect winter getaway. What’s more, direct flights from London airports kick off at just £20 – what’s not to love?

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Scott Manson documented his epic six-leg journey from Glasgow to mainland Europe’s southernmost point for his YouTube channel Planes, Trains, Everything – but faced endless setbacks

A YouTuber who embarked on an epic three-night, four-day odyssey from Glasgow to mainland Europe’s southernmost point was left gobsmacked upon arrival – only to discover the gates were locked.

Scott Manson, who presents the travel channel Planes, Trains, Everything, chronicled the mammoth six-leg expedition for his audience, billing it from the start as an extraordinary undertaking.

“I’m traveling from Glasgow to the southern tip of mainland Europe. Now, this is going to be a long, long journey. It’s going to take three nights and four days. There are six transportation legs. The first leg is Avanti West Coast down to London.”

His itinerary saw him travel from Glasgow to London Euston, then traverse the capital to St Pancras International for the Eurostar to Paris. From the French capital he pressed southward to Lyon, onwards to Barcelona, and subsequently to Madrid before boarding a long-distance coach to Algeciras.

A concluding local bus journey and stroll delivered him to Tarifa, widely acknowledged as mainland Europe’s southernmost extremity, reports Glasgow Live.

However, the expedition was anything but smooth sailing.

Scott disclosed the trip “nearly went totally belly up” following a catastrophic high-speed rail collision in Spain earlier this year. Referencing the tragedy, he explained: “One high-speed train jumped the tracks, landed on the opposite side, and was hit by a train heading in the opposite direction. Forty-five people were killed. Absolutely horrendous.”

Worried his connection might be axed, he consulted the Renfe website.

While tickets remained available initially, the evening before departing the UK he received an email stating: “Unfortunately, your train’s canceled. We apologize for the inconvenience.”

This left him frantically seeking an alternative for the vital Madrid to Algeciras stretch. Flying via Gibraltar was contemplated but ruled out as impractical and potentially costly, necessitating multiple connections and a border crossing.

Instead, he managed to book a nine-hour daytime coach – twice the duration of the train journey.

“It’s going to be horrendous, but it needs to be done,” he remarked, noting the alteration also delayed his arrival until 8pm, compelling him to postpone filming at his final destination.

The complications continued mounting. The Avanti service from Glasgow ran late, necessitating what he characterised as a hurried sprint across London.

His Eurostar seat was relocated to a “windowless window seat.” The Barcelona to Madrid train ran behind schedule.

Madrid’s weather turned “atrocious.” And the replacement train southbound was cancelled entirely.

Following all that, the ultimate disappointment awaited at Tarifa. Upon reaching the Spanish municipality, Scott headed towards Isla de Las Palomas, an island at the southern tip of Punta de Tarifa – the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula.

However, to Scott’s dismay, the area was cordoned off and accessible solely through guided tours. “Well, you spend three nights and four days travelling to the southernmost tip of the European mainland, and it’s shut,” he said.

“At least I’m not the only one who arrived thinking the place would be open. There are two Chinese tourists there. I can’t complain—they’ve travelled further than I have to get here—but I think it caught quite a few people off guard.”

He suggested strong winds might have rendered the exposed headland too dangerous. “But yeah, that’s as far as we can get.”

Despite the setback, Scott stayed positive. “For as long as I can recall making these YouTube videos, I’ve always felt there was a force pushing back, trying to stop me from completing videos. This was a prime example.”

Nevertheless, he maintained the experience was worthwhile. “But I am so glad I did this journey. I’m so glad you guys came along with me as well. I’ll see you next time.”

With the highest chance of clear blue skies and balmy temperature during the Easter holidays, this beautiful island is a haven with golden sand beaches and azure waters

A sunny island offering balmy rays of 22C and golden sand beaches could be the ideal destination to jet off to this Easter.

With February half term almost over, thoughts will start turning to the Easter holidays, particularly when a vitamin D fix is in order. One destination that offers ‘near guaranteed sunshine’, alongside its expansive sand beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.

In a bid to help travellers book their Easter escape, easyJet collected data to reveal the destinations with the highest chance of blistering rays and clear skies in April. From their research, they found that Gran Canaria would offer a balmy 22C in April and just a mere 5 to 15 per cent chance of rain per day, coming in third place behind Egypt and Cape Verde in the easyJet index.

The beautiful island, off northwestern Africa, is a haven for radiant weather with an average of nine hours of sunshine a day – perfect for days spent by the hotel pool or on the beach! What’s more, one-way direct flights to the sun-soaked island in April start from just £25.99 with easyJet, making an Easter escape even more appealing.

Among its fun-packed waterparks to keep the kids entertained, and desert-style sand dunes for days of exploring, easyJet revealed that the average price of a package holiday to Gran Canaria starts from around £429. There’s also a catalogue of sprawling resorts nestled along the picturesque shores, making it even easier to choose your preferred accommodation.

As the third-largest island of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has often been dubbed a ‘miniature continent’ due to its diverse landscapes, with around 60km of pristine sand beaches stretching along its 236km coastline. One of the most popular beaches is Playa de Maspalomas, with its heaps of golden sand dunes.

While it’s a scenic spot that’s certainly worth visiting to marvel at this phenomenon, you can also spend time on the beach with nearby bars and restaurants. One traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “Stunning, unique, and a magical natural place, and with a sea and climate all year round. Spectacular with pleasant places where you can bathe and be relaxed, its coasts, its dunes, beaches and its wonderful people and delicious food, all in general, a visit where I will return safely, always.”

Other notable beaches include Playa de Las Canteras, Playa de Amadores and Playa de Mogan, which has been hailed as a “total hidden gem off the beaten track”. The beautiful beach has often been dubbed a ‘Little Venice’, due to its charming canals connecting the marina to the town, with waterfront restaurants, cafés, and shops also in the area.

Aside from the sprawling beaches, there’s plenty more to explore in Gran Canaria. Including the huge waterpark, Aqualand Maspalomas and Lago Taurito, as well as the Palmitos Park, a garden and zoo, for the kids to enjoy when they’re not splashing around in the sea or building sand castles.

For those looking to delve into local culture, the historic old town of Vegueta (Las Palmas) is worth exploring, with its majestic Santa Ana Cathedral and Casa de Colón. Additionally, there is the traditional town of Teror and the municipality, Arucas, which is famed for its neo-Gothic Church and ancient rum distillery.

Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said: “After making it through the dark winter months, we know many of our customers are relying on April’s Easter break to catch up on some much-needed vitamin D.