Every summer, photos of Aperol Spritzes at posh cafés in Positano (captioned “#blessed” no less) are sure to flood your Instagram feed. Thanks to social media, traveling to Europe has evolved into a cliché in recent years — a competition to inspire “FOMO” in others by posting idyllic photos on Instagram from popular tourist destinations. For those who yearn to explore the undiscovered in Europe, here are some unique experiences that can help you connect deeper with European lifestyle and culture, and hopefully, yourself.
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Luxury travelers in the know have long been in on the secret that one of the best ways to explore Europe is by rail. The storied Orient Express is no exception, offering one of the most memorable travel experiences in the world. In the Spring of 2025, La Dolce Vita Orient Express will introduce eight elegant Italian itineraries in rail cars designed by Dimorestudio, celebrating the era of Italy’s La Dolce Vita, the 60s through the 70s. The itineraries last one to three nights, featuring curated experiences to Venice, Portofino, and the mysterious cave city of Matera. Onboard, three-Michelin star Chef Heinz Beck oversees the menu, and wine selections are carefully crafted through VinItaly. Passengers are set to have such a memorable onboard experience that it might seem the allure of the destinations will pale in comparison. Fortunately, since this is Italy, this is not possible.
Lake Annecy’s Auberge du Père Bise
With its turquoise water fed by mountain springs and stunning surrounding mountains, Lac d’Annecy in France’s Alps may be one of its most picturesque spots. The city of Annecy and small charming towns dot the lakeshore, the most quaint of which may be Talloires, said to be a favorite of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. For more than 100 years, Auberge du Père Bise has offered a luxurious retreat for discerning travelers. This historic property, dating back to 1903, has been transformed into a Relais & Châteaux hotel that seamlessly blends tradition with modern elegance.
The hotel boasts 23 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a perfect balance of contemporary design and classic French charm. Many rooms offer breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lake. At the heart of the Auberge du Père Bise experience is its two-Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by the renowned chef Jean Sulpice. Sulpice, who took over the property with his wife Magali in 2017, has brought his innovative culinary vision to this storied establishment.
Sulpice is known for his deep connection to nature and his region. He forages for wild herbs and plants in the surrounding mountains, incorporating these unique flavors into his cuisine. His menus change with the seasons, reflecting the best produce available from local farmers and the lake itself. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s extensive cellar, curated by Magali Sulpice, a skilled sommelier. The collection features both prestigious labels and lesser-known gems from the Savoie region and beyond.
Theatre & Tea in London Town
London is always calling…isn’t it? And what are the top two hits for a luxe London stay – theater and tea. Experience both at the Drury Lane Theatre, which underwent a 60-million-pound renovation thanks to owner Andrew Llyod Webber. It is the oldest theater in London and there’s even a resident ghost, “The Man in Gray.” Of course, you can take in a show, but don’t miss the chance for a behind-the-scenes tour and count yourself lucky if your guide is David Kerby-Kendall, who is not only a mesmerizing storyteller but a working actor – he played the judge who granted Charles and Diana a divorce on the Netflix series The Crown. He might teach you some new trivia such as how the words “crew” and “props” were born at this very theater. Finish the afternoon with the great British tradition in an elegant tearoom, where King Charles and Queen Camilla themselves have indulged in tea, with the most delicious savory and sweet creations by famous London baker, Lily Jones.
Dreamy Tuscan Getaway
We think Italy’s Val d’Orcia might just be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. This stunning valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rolling hills adorned with rows of cypress trees, vast fields of golden wheat, and vibrant sunflower blooms. There’s almost no place more enchanting to stay but at Monteverdi, a luxury escape that is the dream of American attorney and entrepreneur Michael Cioffi and named after his favorite opera composer.
Cioffi procured several buildings in the tiny hilltop town of Castiglioncello del Trinoro and has transformed them into large, modern relaxing guest rooms with views for days. There’s one where the bathtub is placed in front of the most stunning panorama vista you can ever imagine. The spa offers a sauna, cold-plunge circuit, and life-changing massage treatments.
Meanwhile, the village’s church is now an event space with musicians and artists coming from around the world to perform. Food is a primary focus here with modern, delicious fare based on fresh seasonal ingredients. The wine and custom cocktail menu offers ample accompaniments. You don’t want to miss the chance to attend Monteverdi’s Culinary Academy run by the dynamic Chef Giancarla Bodoni, who teaches the fundamentals of Tuscan cooking to students of all ages.