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It’s the most wonderful time of the year

It’s the most wonderful time of the year

There’s something about the light, the misty mornings and crisp blue skies that give even the most familiar cites a magical quality in the Winter months. Grab a chunky knit, pull on a bobble hat and check out our Top Five Picks for a charmingly cool Winter break.

#5. LONDON

There’s something uniquely atmospheric about London in the Winter that makes it a draw for even the most seasoned travellers. The twinkling lights of the Southbank at dusk, inviting pop-up food stalls, cosy cafés, the museums and galleries, afternoon tea, evenings in the pub, East End, West End… and so it goes on.

Stay at The Westminster, Curio Collection by Hilton, in the historic and politically charged London borough that is home to MI5, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Or head East to Stratford for music and nightlife at The Gantry, Curio Collection by Hilton, where contemporary design meets dramatic urban views.

#4. BARCELONA

Winter in Barcelona is a joy. Temperatures rarely dip below chilly and sun-seeking crowds have largely dispersed to reveal a very different city to the one enjoyed in the heat of summer. Strolling around well-known attractions like the Sagrada Familia becomes pleasurable, and local shoppers return to the Boqueria bringing with them the delightful authenticity that makes the market a true foodie hotspot. The mystique and atmosphere of the gothic quarter is heightened in the fading sun of late afternoon; just add churros and hot chocolate to complete the experience.

Stay at the Catalan gem that is Alexandra Barcelona Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, tucked down a quiet street off the Rambla, five minutes’ walk from iconic Casa Batlló.

#3. CAMBRIDGE

There’s an enchanting serenity to Cambridge and so much culture and learning that you can feel your IQ rising as you wander through manicured University courts or Grantchester Meadows. Catch the Winter mood by punting along The Backs, where the college lawns meet the river, before heading to the free-to-enter Fitzwilliam Museum with its world-class art collections.

A short walk across Jesus Green brings to you to The Fellows House, Curio Collection by Hilton. An homage to the great minds that have called this city home, the hotel’s indoor pool and steam room are the perfect place to end a busy day of discovery.

#2. COLOGNE

At less than 90 minutes flight time from London, Cologne is a must on the Winter travel list. The city on the Rhine has a lot to offer; quaint old-town streets, a must-visit micro-brewery on almost every corner, and the staggeringly imposing Cologne Cathedral in all its gothic glory. At Christmas there’s gluhwein, spectacular light displays, and one of Germany’s most celebrated traditional Christmas Markets.

Stay in a 150-year-old cylindrical red-brick water tower thoughtfully renovated to blend original features with contemporary spaces. Open from December 2021 the Wasserturm Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, also features a rooftop bar with 360-degree views across the city.

#1. REYKJAVÍK

Dramatic landscapes of black sand, lava fields, volcanoes and boiling geysers make Iceland one of the most unique places in the world to visit. Throw in the Northern Lights (best viewed between November and February) a wonderfully walkable capital city, and a culture that actively embraces people from across the spectrums of gender and sexuality, and there really is no better place to add to your winter travel list.

Base yourself at the Reykjavík Konsúlat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, a buzzing urban retreat filled with vintage photography, quirky décor, cosy corners and a traditional Icelandic Bathhouse.

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