Greece offers a rich cultural getaway with ancient landmarks, vibrant traditions and deep sense of history.
For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist paths, Boatsy, a newly launched boat rental marketplace and app, provides curated sailing routes that reveal Greece’s hidden gems.
One such itinerary, “Mysteries & Myths of the Saronic Gulf,” is a 5-7 day journey starting from Alimos Marina near Athens. This route takes you through Aegina, Ermioni, Spetses, Hydra, and Poros, offering a blend of rich history, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty – from the Ancient Temple of Aphaia on Aegina, to the local tavernas of Ermioni, and even the car-free towns and pristine beaches of Hydra and Spetses.

Dubai: Where Traditional Emirati Heritage and Modern Adventure Combine
Dubai seamlessly blends its ultra-modern attractions with deep-rooted Emirati traditions, offering visitors a diverse cultural experience. A visit to Dubai Creek, with its traditional abra boat rides and bustling souks, showcases the city’s rich maritime heritage. For a glimpse into desert life, desert safaris provide a range of experiences, from camel rides and falconry to traditional music and dance performances under the stars, offering travellers a true immersion in Bedouin culture.
For those seeking a luxurious yet culturally rich stay, Raffles The Palm Dubai offers the perfect retreat. Located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this opulent resort combines classic Arabian elegance with modern comforts. With its grand Ottoman-esque architecture, lavish interiors, and personalised service, Raffles provides not only a luxurious experience but also convenient access to Dubai’s cultural landmarks. From here, you can easily explore the city’s historical sites, such as Al Fahidi District or the Jumeirah Mosque, or simply relax in the resort’s serene surroundings, which include private beach access, award-winning dining, and a world-class spa.

Portugal: Uncorking wine and chocolate in Porto
Porto is an ideal destination for a family holiday, offering a perfect mix of cultural heritage, a vibrant food and wine scene, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you prefer cruising down the Douro River, exploring the city’s magnificent cathedrals, or wandering through streets adorned with its famous azulejo tiles, Porto is full of culturally enriching activities for all ages.
A must-visit is WOW, the city’s cultural district, which features seven interactive museums that combine education with fun. Highlights include The Wine Experience, where you can dive into the rich history of winemaking from vine to bottle, exploring global traditions and tasting some of the best wines along the way. Another standout is The Chocolate Story, a real-life Willy Wonka factory that traces the fascinating journey of cocoa, from its cultural significance to how it’s crafted into chocolate, with plenty of delicious samples along the way to keep everyone energised.

Türkiye: Admire Majestic Heritage and Contemporary Art in Istanbul
The bustling city of Istanbul, only a 4-hour flight from the UK, is full of rich history, culture and art. Discover the enchanting beauty of Istanbul, where you can take in the stunning architecture of mosques like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. At the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets, experience the charm of shopping for handmade crafts and spices from local artisans. At the Istanbul Modern Museum and the Sakıp Sabancı Museum, contemporary art flourishes, while the rich history of Topkapi Palace and its opulent gardens offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s imperial past.

Stay at the Rixos Tersane Istanbul, available to book on Otelz.com at the best prices, for the ideal base for your city break. The hotel blends rich Ottoman heritage with contemporary elegance while also boasting picturesque views of the infamous Bosphorus Strait allowing for the best possible stay while being in Istanbul.