25 Jan LUYA LOVES… CITY BREAKS
City breaks, we love them. So much so that this segment will be having a Part 2!
As we sit and hold tight for the most mundane month of the year to end, January is often a time where we seek future plans for the months ahead. Did someone say holiday time?
And because we’re a team of self-proclaimed travel-savvy, dictators of taste, we’ve rounded up our favourite spots across the globe which we think you should consider for your next weekend away. Here’s Part 1…
Budapest, Hungary
An often-overlooked cultural hub in the heart of Eastern Europe and only three hours (ish) away from most UK airports. Famous for their thermal baths, rich history and fascinating city layout, Budapest is a must for anyone with a love for beautiful architecture and city exploration.
Spend your days wandering the streets, paying a visit to the Hungarian Parliament Building, browsing local independent shops, exploring the Castle District (our personal favourite neighbourhood), and grabbing 360-degree views of the city from Fisherman’s Bastion up on the hill. Relax in one of several thermal bath locations, featuring fresh water from the city’s ancient hot springs. Or take a leisurely river cruise along the central Danube.
When it comes to the city’s colourful food and drinks scene, street food and ruin bars are always the way to go. In the day, explore the Great Market Hall filled with traditional dishes made from decades-long family recipes and go bar or café-hopping along Király Street.
At night, Szimpla Kert is arguably the ‘coolest’ bar in the city, set within the ruins of previously abandoned buildings and adorned with eclectic furniture, cosy lighting and illustrated walls. Right beside the bar is Karavan, an incredible selection of street vendors serving up iconic Hungarian delights (with a modern twist) and some of the best Lángos in the city.
Pophams, Cadet & Brat X Climpson’s Arch via Instagram.
Hackney, London
It’s no secret that London is the food capital of the UK, but take a trip to the suburbs, Hackney specifically, for arguably the best venues in the city…
Start with a visit to one of London’s most famous bakeries, Pophams. You only have to utter ‘Po…’ to a passer-by in Hackney and they’ll finish your sentence with “Almond croissant?” Not only do their pastries and sourdough taste as good as they look, but the interiors are also beautiful and purchas-able across the road in the London Fields venue. Speaking of which, stroll through London Fields and head to Broadway Market. Pop into to Haeckels or Aesop for your wellbeing hit or Artsword Bookshop where you’ll definitely want to judge a book by its cover.
Sunday calls for Columbia Road Flower Market… Not only can you buy a gorgeous bunch of flowers, but the atmosphere (and photo opps) is iconic. Don’t forget to grab oysters and a Bloody Mary from the Oyster Boy tucked away just off the Flower Market on Ezra Street. And whilst you’re there, check out Campania & Jones for unbeatable pasta and rustic Italian interiors.
Thinking of dinner? Where to begin. Elliot’s is a firm favourite with their small plates and pizzas, you’ll also find Brat’s more casual Hackney outpost at Climpson’s Arch. For drinks, head to Cadet in Newington Green for delicious wine and charcuterie or 107 Wine Shop & Bar (formerly P Franco) for all the natural wine and changeable dishes. With their rotating resident chef series and iconic posters, it’s peak Hackney and you won’t regret it.
Seville, Spain
The capital of Andalusia in Southern-Spain and one of the warmest cities in city Spain and Europe. Sun-soaked Seville offers a mix of history with opulent 16th century buildings and medieval streets, alongside elegant architecture, bustling restaurants and friendly locals.
Be sure to explore the cobbled streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, which is home to the historic Jewish quarter and is one of the homes of flamenco. Sight-seeing highlights include the Cathedral (the third largest in the world) and the historic royal palace, Royal Alcázar of Seville. The palace is known for its tiled decoration, where you can easily spend hours looking at all of the different designs.
Seville has a thriving restaurant scene with a mix of classic bars and fine dining. We love El Pinton for a modern twist on classic tapas, set in the landmark Peyré building, a former textile warehouse. With light and airy interiors, you can enjoy the air-con inside, or sit outside and people watch.
Hotel Rey Alfonso X is perfectly located to explore on foot and after a long day you can even make use of the rooftop pool.
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