october-november 2025 | ISSUE 07

The Europe Classic Insider

Welcome to the seventh edition of our bi-monthly product update.

This issue highlights Switzerland, showcasing its stunning Alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and exceptional winter experiences. We are also spotlighting the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy, a perfect opportunity to inspire memorable winter itineraries for your clients. Plus, discover key industry updates and new European hotel additions to support your tailored travel planning.

Major Destination News

SWITZERLAND

WHY SWITZERLAND?

Switzerland is a destination that consistently captivates travelers with its rare blend of spectacular landscapes, refined sophistication, and seamless travel experiences. Known for its snow-dusted Alps, crystal-clear lakes, rolling meadows, and impeccably preserved villages, the country offers a unique sense of timeless beauty paired with modern comfort. Yet Switzerland is more than a scenic escape—it is a place where precision, hospitality, and cultural diversity come together to create an elevated travel experience.

 

Switzerland stands out for:

  • Reliability & Safety: Exceptionally efficient transportation, walkable cities, and a strong reputation for safety.
  • Accessibility: Easy connections via Zurich and Geneva from major U.S. gateways.
  • Luxury & Authenticity: Boutique hotels, world-class spas, Michelin-star dining, and immersive alpine experiences.
  • Diverse Cultures: A blend of German, French, and Italian influences within one small, easily navigable country.

 

Whether clients want adventure, culture, wellness, or scenic relaxation, Switzerland delivers sophisticated experiences across every season.

Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s cosmopolitan hub—stylish, clean, and culturally rich, with a perfect balance of old-town charm and modern lifestyle.

 

What to Visit & Do:

  • Bahnhofstrasse – One of the world’s premier luxury shopping streets.
  • Old Town (Altstadt) – Cobblestone lanes, historic buildings, boutique shops, and lively cafés.
  • Lake Zurich – Scenic cruises, lakeside promenades, and swimming spots in summer.
  • Kunsthaus Zurich – A top European art museum with Monet, Picasso, Giacometti, and more.
  • Uetliberg Mountain – Easy-access viewpoint for panoramic city and lake views.
  • Food Scene – From Swiss classics to Michelin dining.

 

Ideal For: Culture lovers, business travelers, shopping clients, and first-time Switzerland visitors.

Where to stay

Baur Au Lac

Park Hyatt Zurich

LUGANO

Lugano brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Switzerland. Located in the Italian-speaking Ticino region, it offers palm-lined lakeshores, mild weather, and a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.

 

What to Visit & Do:

  • Lake Lugano – Boat tours, paddleboarding, and lakeside dining.
  • Piazza della Riforma – The lively heart of town with cafés, events, and boutique shops.
  • Monte Brè & Monte San Salvatore – Funicular-access peaks with iconic views.
  • Gandria Village – A charming, car-free lakeside town ideal for half-day excursions.
  • Swiss Miniatur – Outdoor miniature park showcasing Switzerland’s landmarks (great for families).
  • Blend of Swiss Precision & Italian Flair – Perfect for clients wanting culture + relaxation.

 

Ideal For: Couples, leisure travelers, food & wine enthusiasts, and clients who love Italy but want Swiss comfort.

Where to stay

Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano

Villa Principe Leopoldo

GENEVA

Geneva is an elegant, international city set along Lake Geneva, framed by the Alps and Mont Blanc. Known for diplomacy and luxury, it offers refined experiences and a multicultural atmosphere.

 

What to Visit & Do:

  • Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) – Cruises, waterfront walks, and lakeside dining.
  • Jet d’Eau – The city’s iconic lakeside fountain.
  • Old Town – Historic streets, St. Peter’s Cathedral, museums, and charming cafés.
  • United Nations HQ – Guided tours of one of the world’s most important diplomatic centers.
  • Carouge District – A bohemian neighborhood with boutiques and artisan workshops.
  • Chamonix & Mont Blanc Day Trips – Easy access to dramatic alpine scenery.

 

Ideal For: Luxury travelers, culture seekers, wellness guests, and clients using Geneva as a gateway to the Alps or France

Where to stay

Hotel D’Angleterre

COMING SOON

BERN

Bellevue Palace Bern

BASEL

Basel Marriott Hotel

INTERLAKEN

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

2026 Winter Olympics

Milano Cortina

The 2026 Winter Olympics Milano Cortina will showcase the best of Italy’s alpine heritage, blending world-class winter sports with stunning scenery and vibrant culture. Hosted across Milan, a global capital of fashion and design, and Cortina d’Ampezzo, the historic “Queen of the Dolomites,” the Games will highlight iconic venues, cutting-edge facilities, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Events will span multiple regions, including Valtellina, Bormio, and Val di Fiemme, offering visitors a diverse Olympic experience. With its mix of urban sophistication and alpine charm, Milano Cortina 2026 promises unforgettable moments for athletes, spectators, and travelers alike.

 

Here are the key events for the 2026 Winter Olympics Milano‑Cortina and the 2026 Winter Paralympics Milano‑Cortina:

  • Olympic Opening Ceremony: Venue: Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro), Milan. 6 February 2026 at 20:30 CET
  • Olympic Closing Ceremony: Venue: Arena di Verona, Verona. 22 February 2026. (Exact time not yet public)
  • Paralympic Opening Ceremony: Venue: Arena di Verona, Verona.: 6 March 2026. (Exact time not yet public)
  • Paralympic Closing Ceremony: Venue: Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio (Cortina d’Ampezzo) 15 March 2026. (Exact time not yet public)

Suggested Itineraries for Milano–Cortina 2026

Milan + Dolomites + Cortina

  • 2 nights – Milan: Culture & museums & Shopping / Olympic ceremonies & city events
  • 3 nights – Dolomites: Dolomites skiing & winter activities / Spa and wellness experiences / Scenic transfer to Cortina for Olympic events

Venice + Verona + Milan

  • 3 nights – Venice: Canals, gondolas, and lagoon islands / Art, architecture, and cuisine
  • 1 night – Verona: Attend the Olympic Closing Ceremony at Arena di Verona
  • 2 nights – Milan: Fashion, design, shopping, culture, nightlife

Dolomites + Venice + Verona + Milan

  • 3–4 nights – Dolomites: Premium skiing / Mountain wellness retreats / Access to Olympic competitions in Cortina
  • 2 nights – Venice: Iconic sights, lagoon charm, and winter ambiance
  • 1 night – Verona: Closing Ceremony at Arena di Verona
  • 2 nights – Milan: Trendsetting style, dining, and culture

NEW HOTELS TO CLASSIC

ITALY

Florence

W Florence

Umbria

Borgobrufa Spa Resort Perugia

Milan

NEMI Hotel Milano

Venice

Ca’ di Dio

Puglia

Palazzo Ducale Venturi, Minervino di Lecce, Lecce

Venice

Hotel Gabrielli Venezia, Starhotels Collezione

PORTUGAL

Algarve

Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort

Madeira Island

Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel

SCOTLAND

Edinburgh

Intercontinental Edinburgh, The George

Germany

Berlin

Intercontinental Hotel Berlin

ENGLAND

London

The Peninsula London

IRELAND

Dublin

Dylan Hotel

CZECH REPUBLIC

Prague

Andaz Prague

Europe Product Team

bonty escallon headshot leadership

Bonty Escallon

Managing Director, Product Development

Athens, Greece

Vicky Chalkiadaki europe product team

Vicky Chalkiadaki

Sr. Product Development Manager

Athens, Greece

Alessandro Longo headshot europe product team

Alessandro Longo

Product Development Manager

Rome, Italy

Valentina europe product team headshot

Valentina Mastio

Product Development Manager

Florence, Italy

Kristy Garikou headshot europe product team

Kristy Garikou

Associate
Product Development

Athens, Greece

Maria Bistrin headshot europe product team

Maria Bistrin

Associate
Product Development

United States