Experience Europe’s Finest Cities Via Post-Olympics Travel

The “City of Light” will be abuzz with activity from July 26 to August 11 as the Summer Olympics come to Paris. Officials estimate that 15 million visitors will attend The Games, along with the 10,500 athletes competing for glory.

For many people, The Games will serve as a starting point for an extended holiday with plans to travel throughout Europe after the Olympics conclude. Occurring only once every four years, this year’s Olympics present an ideal opportunity for people to experience Europe coupled with one of the world’s storied sporting events.

These European cities are located a reasonable distance from Paris, either by train or plane.

London, UK (1.5 hour flight or 3.5 hour train ride from Paris)

After the adrenaline and celebrations of Paris, London offers visitors an air of sophistication in a city renowned for its historic sites. Guests can experience such iconic landmarks as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and more. For a relaxing night out head to the famed West End for dinner and a show. Be sure to include Piccadilly Circus in your plans, a vibrant section similar to a smaller Times Square. The Stafford London is an elegantly designed luxury hotel offering guests an inviting atmosphere to take in the decadent interiors, charming service and rich royal history. Guests can enjoy one of the few remaining ‘American’ cocktails bars, The American Bar, a historic and legendary 380-year-old wine cellar, along with the classic British restaurant, The Game Bird, helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen. Travelers looking to be a part of quality service and old-school charm can appreciate the hotel’s refined Afternoon Tea, taking guests through British culture.

Celebrating 100 years of regenerative agriculture with a series of joy-filled centenary experiences and events rooted in nature, this summer is the perfect time to embrace the great British outdoors at luxury countryside retreat, Heckfield Place. Experiential happenings including a Home Farm Cooking Experience with Lunch, Foraged Cocktail Making Workshops, produce sales, talks and screenings. Hotel guests can further take advantage of the property’s outdoor playground through wild swimming, relaxing picnics underneath the willows, boating on the serene lake and going on a peaceful bike ride to explore the estate.

Naples, Italy (2 hour flight from Paris)

With intriguing history, rich cultural attractions, delectable cuisine, an unrivaled scenic setting and welcoming natives, Naples is the perfect Italian city to spend after the Olympics. Visitors can see the iconic Piazza del Plebiscito, enjoy a show in San Carlo Theater, shop on Via Toledo and Galleria Umberto I, see the historic Spanish Quarter and beautiful Naples Cathedral, bask in stunning coastal views and feast on authentic Neapolitan pizza. For unmatched views of Mount Vesuvius and the island of Capri, ROMEO Hotel is the ultimate modern luxury five-star hotel. Completely redesigned by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange & Associates, the immaculate 79 rooms and suites offer stunning views. From an exciting new restaurant to debut this summer to over 1,000 Italian wine labels to explore in the Wine Cellar, guests can enjoy excellent F&B options.

Amsterdam, Netherlands (1.5 hour flight or 3.5 hour train from Paris)

Spend a few days meandering through Amsterdam’s iconic canals by foot or bicycle, or immerse yourself in the rich art and culture that the city has to offer visiting the landmarks in Museum Square. The city is about to celebrate its 750th anniversary in October, so it is the ideal time to visit this Dutch city. Conservatorium Hotel stands proudly in Museum Square in the epicenter of the city’s many beloved cultural hotspots and iconic landmarks. Originally built in the 19th century and opened as a hotel in 2011, the extravagant property exquisitely tells the stories of the past, fusing elegant Dutch architecture and beautifully restored design by Piero Lissoni with the simplicity of the present and intrigue of the future to provide guests with inspired moments at every turn. Discover some of the best culinary offerings Amsterdam has to offer at Taiko Cuisine, Taiko Bar, Barbounia and The Lounge, all under the direction of Dutch chef Schilo van Coevorden.

Andermatt, Switzerland (1 hour flight or 6.5 hour train from Paris)

A true hidden gem in the Swiss Alps, Andermatt is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and alpine adventure. This idyllic Swiss village, with its traditional chalets and stunning mountain landscapes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. This five-star property offers year-round activities, including world-class skiing, biking, fishing and golfing along with countless mountain passes to explore. The Chedi Andermatt , the region’s premier hotel, sits at 4,747ft above sea level and features 119 spacious rooms and suites all boasting fireplaces and large balconies. The hotel boasts five exceptional restaurants and bars, a modern Health Club with an exceptional Spa showcasing the longest indoor pool in the Alps and an outdoor pool in the lush courtyard.

Bruges, Belgium (1 hour flight or 2.5 hour train from Paris)

Bruges is one of the most charming and popular must-visits during a European summer. Here you’ll find true romance via lazy canals, horse-drawn carriages and tons of green space, with so much to explore in the warm, dry weather. This summer, climb the Belfry, relax on the nearby beaches and learn about and view some of the world’s most famous art works and the vibrant street art for which the city is famous. Only 50 meters from the Place du Marché, the Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage is an excellent choice for accommodations. This 19th century building is the ideal starting point to explore on foot, by carriage or boat. On returning to the Heritage, relax in the lounge bar, Le Magnum and savor local cuisine at Le Mystique (est.1869), where you will be privy to the delights of a 14th century wine cellar.