Destination: Munich, Germany                                                           
Where to stay: Koenigshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich

Koenigshof’s architecture – a bold, sugar-cube-shaped structure that glitters with glass windows  – represents Munich’s cultured interplay of old and new. This modish hotel rubs shoulders with the elegant grand dames of Karlsplatz Square (aka Stachus), just opposite. Koenigshof’s contemporary style continues inside: communal spaces and bedrooms are dressed with striking lighting and pops of boiled-sweet and gem-bright hues, from mandarin and sapphire to silver, chartreuse and teal. The 250-sq m Presidential Suite lives up to its name, providing a two-floor urban sanctuary with a sauna, pool and spa area. Beyond the bedrooms, a trio of dining options tantalises taste buds. Savour Latin American cuisine at GRETA OTO Munich, courtesy of Peruvian chef Michael Cánepa; nibble a slice of Koenigshof-Torte with the hotel’s own-brand tea at The Green lounge; and gather for light bites and cocktails at The Gold, whose panoramic terrace promises prime Munich people-watching. In between wurst, pretzels and schnitzels, explore the city’s history on a walking tour, or conquer a workout at the hotel’s sleek fitness centre.

                   Not yet a member of Marriott Bonvoy? It’s free to join, and you’ll scoop 250 bonus Avios

Destination: Budapest, Hungary
Where to stay: W Budapest

Hungarian history gets a refreshing remix at W Budapest, which pays artful homage to its home city: the Queen of the Danube. You’ll be the one feeling regal with a stay here, thanks to the hotel’s unbeatable location on Andrássy Avenue, which has UNESCO’s approval. W Budapest occupies the Drechsler Palace, a 19th-century royal residence that once housed the Ballet Institute; cue Wes Anderson-worthy details galore. Sartorially inspired by a tale of two cities, Buda and Pest, suites are decorated with jewel-box hues, mesh accents, ballet motifs, fluid lines and Zsa Zsa Gabor glam. The all-black Extreme WOW Suite and its all-white equivalent pay bold tribute to Swan Lake. Named after Igor Stravinsky’s Nightingale opera, Nightingale by Beefbar fuses vibrant, Asian flavours with Beefbar’s signature meaty dishes. Enjoy small plates, creative cocktails and chilled DJ beats at W Lounge, or channel speakeasy vibes at Society25. Additional distractions and attractions include a spa, pool and fitness centre, all flaunting W’s trademark style.

                   Not yet a member of Marriott Bonvoy? It’s free to join, and you’ll scoop 250 bonus Avios 

Destination: Vienna, Austria                                                              
Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna

Sprawling across not one, not two, not three, but four 19th-century palaces, The Ritz-Carlton Vienna enjoys a prime perch in downtown, a strudel’s throw from the city’s leafy park. Swim off all the Viennoiseries in the spa’s 18m indoor pool, enjoying calming underwater music while you notch up laps. Afterwards, relax with a pampering massage or Susanne Kaufmann beauty treatment in a peaceful spa suite. Carnivores will relish the barbecue-centric Dstrikt Steakhouse; for aperitivo hour, Pastamara – Bar con Cocina offers Sicilian small plates and artisan sips. There’s also the Atmosphere Rooftop Bar for drinks and snacks with Viennese vistas. Created in partnership with the Wiener Symphoniker, the design of the Ritz-Carlton Symphony Suite mirrors the structure of a sonata, bringing to life two opposing themes: past and future. Guests of this suite can enjoy complimentary VIP access to the Vienna Symphony Orchestra's general rehearsals, plus private guided tours of the Vienna Musikverein. The hotel also has a Crystal Ballroom, should you require one.

                   Not yet a member of Marriott Bonvoy? It’s free to join, and you’ll scoop 250 bonus Avios 

Destination: Venice, Italy
Where to stay: The St. Regis Venice

For a masterclass in ageing gracefully, look to The St. Regis Venice, which has been sitting pretty on the Grand Canal for more than a hundred and fifty years. A secluded garden reveals curlicue topiary, flowering plants and fluid pathways. Equally beautiful on the inside, the hotel acts as a living gallery, exhibiting works by contemporary artists, including Julian Opie, Banksy, Jeff Koons, Esther Stocker and Gregor Hildebrandt. Admire the sparkling crystals of Ai Weiwei’s iridescent ‘White Chandelier’ in the Grand Salon. Sip ‘Santa Maria’ the perfect signature Bloody Mary in a specifically designed and manufactured glass by Berengo Studio, enjoy an iconic afternoon tea and dress to impress for the Sabering Ritual, in which a bottle of champagne is elegantly opened with a sabre. Soak up the soul of the city with curated experiences, from mask making to jewellery crafting and market tours with Chef Ricci, followed by a private cooking class and lunch. Don’t leave without savouring Italian cuisine at Gio’s Restaurant or quenching your thirst either via the Spritz Trolley or at the iconic Arts Bar. 

                   Not yet a member of Marriott Bonvoy? It’s free to join, and you’ll scoop 250 bonus Avios