5 Top European Destinations For Your Summer Holiday

“School’s out!” – those are the words that all children can’t wait to hear. Parents also have had the date marked in their calendars as the summer holiday planning starts well in advance.

Following the recent visa waiver across the Schengen travel zone for UAE Nationals British Airways is offering special fares from 18 May to 24 May with travel before 30 November 2015 allowing both nationals and expats living in the UAE to explore Europe this summer.

British Airways flies to 188 destinations worldwide and operates to 97 destinations in Europe alone. In the first months of 2015, the airline has increased flight frequencies to several destinations across Europe including Sardinia, Greece and Spain with increased flights to Madeira, Mykonos and Austria scheduled for later in the year.

“With the recent visa waiver for UAE Nationals, it has never been easier to holiday in Europe,” said Paolo De Renzis, Area Commercial Manager for the Middle East & Central Asia. “While London is one of the most popular cities for travellers from the UAE, we want our customers to also take advantage of our excellent connections from London to several cities across Europe and enjoy an affordable European holiday.”

Additionally, the team at British Airways Holidays, have offered tips on where to holiday in London and 5 must visit holiday spots across Europe for travellers from the UAE.

“Europe is a continent of contrasts and is an excellent all year round destination, but summer is possibly the best time to visit, with its long warm sunny days to relax on the beach and enjoy all the sights of this wonderful continent,” said Robyn Anderson – Destination Manager, British Airways Holidays.

Welcome to London, the capital of the UK, home to British Airways and famous for its rich history, well-known landmarks, designer shopping, and a vibrant arts and theatre community.

Where to stay: Why not stay in the luxurious Conrad St James inspired by its prestigious Westminster location. Once a former government building, Queen Anne’s Chamber, Conrad London St James is deeply engrained by its 19th Century façade and political postcode. Yet, incredibly forward thinking at the same time. Stay from as little as AED 673 per person per night in July 2015.

What to do: While in London, why not take advantage to see one of London’s newest attractions the awe inspiring Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe. Take in breath-taking 360-degree views across London; see Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Gherkin and the London Eye from a new perspective from just AED 171 per person. Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to London start from as little as *AED 2505 and return fares on Club World start from as little as *AED 10725.

1. A city break in Amsterdam

Chances are you will already be familiar with the stereotypical image of Amsterdam – a city of meandering canals and cycle ways. But that’s just touching the surface of this remarkable destination. Amsterdam has an old-world charm with an exuberant modern feel, bursting with world-class cultural institutions, cutting edge style and renowned nightlife – injected with a famously liberal, unabashed attitude. So hire a bike, hop on a canal boat and soak up the warm embrace of Amsterdam. Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to Amsterdam via London Heathrow start from as little as *AED 2325 and return fares on Club World start from as little as *AED 10255.

2. Explore the French Riviera in Nice

Nice is the ideal choice for a relaxing city break or beach holiday. Its sweeping panoramic promenade, turquoise waters and palm-lined boulevards paint a true picture – but you’ll soon discover a thriving culture too. The bustling atmosphere around Place Massena radiates along the Promenade des Anglais, giving you a taste of the French Riviera. Why not explore more of southern France with a day trip to Provence (from AED 369 per person for a full day excursion) known for its lavender fields and quaint villages or discover the old town of Monaco (from AED 249 per person for a full day excursion). Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to Nice via London Heathrow start from as little as *AED 2335 and return fares on Club World start from as little as *AED 10435.

3. Discover vibrant Berlin

Berlin is one of the hottest destinations to visit right now having become a vibrant, fascinating and truly unique place to visit. The contemporary and the historic collide in this wonderfully diverse city. Alongside the world-famous Brandenburg Gate and iconic Reichstag building stand incredible feats of modern architecture like the dazzling Sony Tower at Potzdamer Platz. Cycle around Tiergarten  or admire artistic treasures on Museum Island then relax in a deckchair at Strandbar Mitte urban beach Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to Berlin via London Heathrow start from as little as *AED 2405 and return fares in Club World start from as little as *AED 10335.

4. Uncover historic Rome

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, where ancient treasures and modern day wonders exist side by side. Strolling through the streets of Rome, you can’t help but stumble across something spectacular. You will easily lose a day amidst the Vatican City, gazing at the flamboyantly dressed Swiss Guards and marvelling at the work of Renaissance greats. So whether you stroll or sit on a city break, you mustn’t rush the mellow feeling when Rome winds down. Why not explore the city by bike at a relaxing pace stopping en-route to enjoy what Italy is most famous for – its food – on a Rome bike and food tour from AED 169 per person. Alternatively try something a bit different on a tour of Rome from below! Discover the underground complex that lies beneath the Trevi Fountain, and listen as your guide explains what this archaeological find has taught us about life in imperial Rome (tour prices from AED 289 per person). Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to Rome via London Heathrow start from as little as *AED 2355 and return fares on Club World start from as little as *AED 10285.

5. Fall in love with Paris

Paris is one of the world’s most famous cities and has some of the most iconic sights from the majestic Eiffel Tower, the imposing Arc de Triomphe and stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. Fall in love with all this city has to offer with a romantic boat trip on the Seine or enjoy a coffee and croissants at a chic café? In the evening, dine on exquisite French cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant or sip champagne at a trendy rooftop bar while gazing at the city sky line. Well, Paris has all of this and much more… Return fares on World Traveller from Dubai to Paris via London Heathrow start from as little as *AED 2365 and return fares on Club World start from as little as *AED 10465.

Over to you? which is your favourite destination(s) in Europe? share your experience in the comments below!

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Source: Arabian Gazette : 5 Top European Destinations For Your Summer Holiday