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Culture tripping: Discover Europe’s coolest summer hotels
By Lauren O'Neill | 8 July 2025 | Travel
Tempus lines up the European cities that should top your summer travel list
With summer underway, it’s tempting to book a long weekend for a spot of sunshine to those tried and tested summer destinations such as Rome, Paris, Barcelona or Nice. But with so many incredible European cities to explore, summer is the perfect time to beat the crowds and see cities in Europe such as Hamburg and Vienna from a new perspective. From the buzz of summer café culture and historic architecture to authentic local cuisine and vibrant nightlife, these iconic cities in Europe are also home to some of the world’s best hotels and are just a short flight or train ride away.
HAMBURG, GERMANY
With its vibrant waterfront location and musical heritage, while Hamburg might not be the first city to spring to mind when you think of summer in Europe, do not overlook this fantastic city. Once the warmer weather hits, visitors can take advantage of watersports such as paddleboarding, kayaking or boating on River Elbe or Lake Alster, or simply enjoy a day of relaxation at one of the many ‘beach clubs’ that line its banks. On the outskirts, the picturesque Treppenviertel Blankenese is well worth a visit, giving Italy’s famed Cinque Terre a run for its money with its colourful fisherman’s cottages and winding staircases.
Where to stay: Look no further than Hamburg institution, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten. The five star hotel, situated on the banks of Inner Lake Alster since 1897 is home to Michelin Restaurant Haerlin, which was recently awarded its third Michelin star under chef Christoph Rüffer, as well as a world class spa, and is ideally located close to several of the city’s cultural and architectural landmarks.
hvj.de 
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
While we may be inclined to associate Austria with Christmas markets, its capital city Vienna is a beautiful destination for a summer break. Not only is Vienna one of Europe’s greenest cities, with over half of it made up of woodlands, gardens, and parks, the balmy temperature in the summer is ideal for strolling its historic streets and soaking up the city. For al fresco lovers, indulge in Vienna’s outdoor cafe culture, its rooftop hotspots and its open air wine bars, or even pay a visit to its urban vineyards. Music lovers can of course not pass up the opportunity to visit the world famous Vienna Opera House or take in one of the city’s many summertime open-air concerts.
Where to stay: Located in the urban scene of the city’s 6th district, art and design lovers will fall in love with the boutique Hotel MOTTO which combines the Parisian flair of the 1920s with modern Viennese lifestyle and Scandinavian comfort. For outdoor dining in style, visit its rooftop restaurant CHEZ BERNARD for delicious food and sprawling views across the city, or take a seat at the Schani Garden of its own organic bakery, MOTTO BROT, to enjoy one of its very own Brewdi beers made using the leftover bread direct from the bakery.
hotelmotto.at/ 
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
One of Europe’s best kept summer city secrets, Sweden’s capital Stockholm has everything you’d want from a city break – trendy rooftop bars, impeccably stylish restaurants and chic shopping – and with 18 hours of daylight in the height of summer, those long evenings and light morning hours offer visitors plenty of time to explore. Something you might not know is that Stockholm is made up of 14 islands and entirely surrounded by water. The city itself boasts over 20 swimming spots and for a scenic day trip take a boat out to the archipelago to visit one of thousands of smaller islands.
Where to stay: For a regal stay, check in to the 150 year old 5-star Grand Hôtel in Stockholm which has played home to some to royals, laureates and Hollywood stars alike, having welcomed everyone from Princess Grace and Princess Rainier of Monaco, to Frank Sinatra, Greta Garbo and Martin Luther King. Situated on the waterfront, the historic spa hotel is home to Michelin-starred Seafood Gastro, alongside several other restaurants and bars, and boasts one of Sweden’s finest wine cellars.
grandhotel.se/en 
LISBON, PORTUGAL
Forgo the Algarve this summer and head north of the capital for a city break that promises the best of both. Established in around 1200 BC, as one of Europe’s oldest cities Lisbon is rich with centuries of history and architecture and, with its hilly landscape and coastal location, it promises some of the most beautiful sunsets. For food & wine lovers, the city’s culinary scene is one of its biggest draws, with an intimate, laid back charm and deep respect for tradition, and this goes hand in hand with its deep rooted love of music – they hauntingly beautiful ‘Fado’ is the traditional music of the city and described as the Soul of Lisbon. The city is also perfectly placed for beach lovers as you can reach the shores from the city centre in under 30 minutes.
Where to stay: Located in the city’s vibrant centre, Locke de Santa Joana is housed on the historical site of a former convent building, dating back to the 1600s. The hotel features an expansive terrace and courtyard with pool as well as an onsite museum featuring historical artefacts discovered during the hotel restoration. A new culinary and social hotspot in the city, Locke de Santa Joana is home to several restaurants and bars including Cafe Castro’s, Santa Joana, The Kissaten & Spiritland.