The Best Cultural City Breaks in Europe

Florence, Italy – Signoria Palazzo, 10 guests, 5 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

The palazzo’s origins date back to the 12th century, but its actual form is mainly derived from a 17th century renovation by the Marchese Anton Maria Bartolommei, and was designed by architect Ferdinando Tacca. Entrance to the luxury apartment to rent in Florence is at street level, by entering an impressive XVIIth century hall with its original columns and statues. The apartment is on the fourth floor of the palazzo, and there is a lift in the building.

The interiors have been renovated and decorated by an internationally renowned interior designer. From the living room, there are views of the Church of Santo Stefano beyond the apartment’s terrace and, on the opposite side, views of the tower of Palazzo Vecchio. There is an entrance lobby and a large open-plan living/dining room with fireplace.

Rome, Italy – Palazzo Babuino Apartments, 8 guests, 4 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

The Palazzo Babuino Apartments are located just moments from the Piazza di Spagna, and are one of Rome’s most exclusive accommodations. The property boasts five palatial quarters housed within an 18th-century palazzo managed by one of Rome’s luxurious hotels, which have all been designed with everyday comforts in mind and furnished to the highest standard. From the building’s private roof terrace, guests can soak in the sights of the Spanish Steps and the imposing towers of the Trinità dei Monti. This private property on the Via del Babuino is ideal for guests wanting to explore the most elegant street for antiques in Rome, or walk about the Tridente complex. 

The five separate luxury apartments consist of one 4-bedroom penthouse with its own spacious terrace, and four 2-bedroom apartments which have access to the building’s large roof terrace. There is also a beautifully appointed living space at the centre of the property which offers plenty of natural light and unimpeded views. Guests staying at the apartments have a dedicated house manager on hand and unbridled access to the spas, bars and restaurants of Rome’s foremost hotels which sit either end of the apartments on Via del Babuino.

Barcelona, Spain – Gaudi Apartment, 10 guests, 5 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

Located on the famous Passeig de Gràcia with an exquisite view of Gaudi’s Casa Batlló, the Gaudi Apartment is a superb base for sightseeing, shopping, dining out, and enjoying the best that Barcelona has to offer. The contemporary property has been furnished throughout, and comfortably accommodates ten guests in its five spacious bedrooms, providing exclusive views of Casa Batlló from the Spanish balcony.

The Passeig de Gràcia is arguably the most iconic street in Barcelona, the luxury avenue is home to exclusive shops and restaurants, as well the two key sighting points of Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. Among the most important buildings are the modernista mansions, with all the gaudy flair from 19th-century Spanish bourgeoisie, offering guests a glimpse into the historic richness of Spanish architecture. 

Seville, Spain – Villa Arenal, 9 guests, 4 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

Situated in the neighbourhood of El Arenal, Villa Arenal is set in a prime location for exploring the city on foot. The historic area was once the walled centre of Seville, with large defensive towers between the Alcázar and the Guadalquivir river. Guests will be a few minutes walk from the city centre, and also from the Maestranza/Plaza de Toros bullring, which holds the largest bullfighting festival in the world during the festival week Feria de Abril. Other traditions such as Flamenco, and the famous mix of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish architecture, are available for guests to explore and enjoy in the city.

The villa has three stories, connected by stairs, as well as a private lift which can be accessed from street-level and can transport guests to the large solarium terrace located on the third floor. The entrance from the street leads to an entrance hall, and two bedrooms and bathrooms on the ground floor. On the first floor is a large and impressive living room and kitchen, and on the second, the master bedroom and another double bedroom, both with bathrooms. On the final floor, there is a large private terrace furnished with sun loungers, and a dining table for alfresco dining.

Paris, France – The Printing House Loft, 8 guests, 4 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

The Printing House Loft is an elegant luxury apartment rental in the heart of Paris, just a few minutes’ walk from a vibrant selection of trendy bars and restaurants. Spanning three levels, this open and modular space offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay in the French capital.

The Printing House Loft is a luxurious three-level apartment in the heart of Paris, accessible through a private courtyard. Internally connected by elegant staircases, the loft is fully air-conditioned, with all four bedrooms featuring queen-size beds, offering comfort and style in every space.

The Printing House Loft offers both seclusion and privacy while being ideally located in Montorgueil, one of Paris’s most vibrant neighborhoods. It is within walking distance of four metro stations and just minutes from Paris’s most iconic attractions, including The Louvre, the Pompidou Modern Art Museum, and Notre-Dame.

Venice, Italy – Palazzo Locatelli, Apartment I, 10 guests, 4 bedrooms: Cultural City Breaks

Centrally located on the Grand Canal between St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, this splendid apartment is set in a historical palazzo dating back to the 16th-century. Guests are a minute’s walk away from the charming Campo Santo Stefano, and a short distance from many of the famous sights of Venice, such as the Palazzo Ducale and the Galleria Accademia, as well as various restaurants and shops. 

The palazzo is divided into four stunning apartments, with a spacious entrance and its own private water entrance with a jetty for direct arrival by boat. For a large group, the apartments can be rented together for up to twenty-eight people. The palazzo has recently been restored to the highest level, but still retains its original ornate interior and features. Apartment I is the largest, with five bedrooms it can accommodate up to ten people in total, and has two main floors which are connected by a beautiful staircase as well as a lift. The rooms are exceptionally light, with both front and side views of the Grand Canal, guests are spoiled by the views of Venice.