Curious as to where other travelers are going? We reached out to Booking.com to ask them about the most popular destinations for first-time travelers.
Not surprisingly, almost all of the destinations are in Europe. Here’s what they said.
By: Hello Paris
Paris
It’s little surprise that the City of Lights ranks at the top of this list for most popular destinations. After all, Paris has it all: museums, cafes, the Eiffel Tower plus cheese, meat and atmosphere.
Though it’s a popular destination for couples, it’s also full of things to do for the single gal traveling on her own. Don’t miss your chance to explore the Catacombs or the Louvre.
Where to Stay in Paris
Villa du Square Luxury Guest House
Feel like a Parisian by staying in this beautifully decorated villa. Located in the Auteuil Village in the 16th district of Paris, the Villa du Square Luxury Guest House is a stone’s throw from the iconic Eiffel Tower and Paris’ most glamorous avenue, the Champs Elysees.
Les Piaules hostel for travelers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on style or comfort.
By: Mario Martí
Barcelona
For travelers who want a city, and want the beach, Barcelona is a great pick.
This cosmopolitan city is perfect for beachgoers and art lovers with its eye-catching Spanish architecture, iconic monuments and of course, delicious Spanish cuisine.
Don’t miss a visit to the amazing Sagrada Familia and be wowed by the intricate details of the Casa Batllo—both designed by the famous Antoni Gaudí—and go explore the Art Nouveau concert hall, Palau de la Música Catalana with its glorious stained-glass dome.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
The Catalonia Ramblas hotel offers guests a seasonal outdoor pool with a south-facing deck, set just off Barcelona’s famous tree-lined Las Ramblas street. Unwind at the hotel’s spa with a large selection of massage and beauty treatments, a relaxation area, sauna, steam bath and hot tub. Savor the delicious Mediterranean cuisine at the Pelai restaurant, or sip on a refreshing milkshake or fruity cocktail at the poolside bar.
London
Every traveler needs to see London at least once. Yes, it’s expensive, but there is such impressive architecture and history here, and you can feel that from the moment you step on the Tube.
Use our Girls Guide to London to find the best deals in the city.
Where to Stay in London
The Sunborn London is a floating super-yacht hotel featuring a bar and restaurant, and it’s just a short walk from the iconic business area, Canary Wharf. Wake up to views overlooking the Royal Docks along with a fresh continental buffet breakfast every morning, and an à la carte menu for the afternoon and evenings. Socialize with friends and clients at the lounge bar serving a selection of drinks, or relax on the yacht’s sundeck.
The quaint Malt House is a lovely bed and breakfast perfect for travelers in London on a budget. Conveniently located just a short walk from Fulham Broadway underground station, the Malt House features high-quality dining and stylish rooms with private bathrooms.
By: Alejandro
Vienna
Come to Vienna for art, European style and museums. Spend your days wandering around the many museums, jump on a tram to Belvedere Palace, or shop on the trendy Graben and Kärntner Strasse. Visit the medieval place of worship, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and explore the public Prater Park and the giant iconic wheel.
Where to Stay in Vienna
Vienna’s oldest hotel, the Hotel König von Ungarn, is right in the city’s center, just 50 yards from the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Founded in 1746, Hotel König von Ungarn (King of Hungary) first served as the guesthouse of the archbishop and is especially popular with cultural travelers and opera, concert and theater enthusiasts. The glass-covered interior courtyard invites guests to relax in a traditional setting and the Restaurant König von Ungarn serves classic Viennese and Austrian cuisine.
The Grand Ferdinand – Viennese Elegance Reloaded hotel is located right on the Ringstraße Boulevard in the heart of Vienna and features a rooftop pool, three restaurants, and is just a short walk from the City Park and the Vienna State Opera.
The Grand Etage Private Saloon is one of three restaurants exclusively for guests, located on the hotel’s rooftop. It’s the perfect spot for alfresco dining and breath taking views of this elegant city.
By: Dimitris Kamaras
Venice, Italy
With museums, culture and romance, Venice is of course one of the most popular destinations for first-time travelers. Don’t miss a gondola ride along the Grand Canal going under the Rialto Bridge. The landmark cathedral of St. Mark’s Basilica with gilded domes and the gothic-style palace and museum of Doge’s Palace are also must-sees.
Where to Stay in Venice
Hotel Ai Reali has modern elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, furnished garden, fitness center, and a luxurious spa. The elegant rooms at the Hotel Ai Reali feature antique Venetian-style hardwood floors, private bathrooms and canal views. A buffet breakfast is provided daily. The city’s iconic gondolas provide a unique mode of transportation to and from the hotel.
Opened in 1908, the Hotel Saturnia & International is an elegant hotel run by the Serandrei family in a perfect location just 200 yards from St. Mark’s Square. Guests can expect a typical extravagant Venetian restaurant and classically styled rooms, with parquet floors and private marble bathrooms. Soak up the sun on the hotel’s deck, featuring unique views across the Venetian rooftops – also the best spot for alfresco dining and a glass of wine.
