Written by Menswear Style in Travel on the 12th September 2024

It doesn’t get much better than luxury travel with friends in tow. Europe’s diverse landscapes offer a variety of experiences, from picturesque city breaks and beach getaways, to countryside escapes. Get the whole gang together and enjoy sunny stays or winter retreats because the continent has so much to offer. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Europe’s top luxury destinations for a mates holiday, from the isles of Greece to the beloved landscapes of Italy. Let us do the thinking for you and pick out the best bits from these top five destinations.

Portugal 

Whether you want to see the bright façades of Lisbon or seek serenity by the sea, Portugal has it all. Head to the capital for days spent wandering historical streets. Inside Lisbon’s colourful architecture, there is so much to see and do. Visit the Belém Tower for a glimpse into the city’s heritage and enjoy an exclusive yacht charter from this bay of the Tagus River. End the day pairing wines with innovative Portuguese cuisine before getting a restful night's sleep at one of the top-end hotels in the city. Discover Porto for an equally colourful landscape scattered with luxury. The second-largest city in the country hosts many luxury hotels equipped with spa facilities to unwind in after busy days exploring. Wine lovers can immerse themselves in some of Portugal’s most luxurious wine estates. Take a private tour of the nearby Douro Valley, where sommeliers can provide exclusive production and tasting classes. Both a beach and golfers paradise, the Southern Coast of Portugal has been a firm holiday hit for decades. Rent a luxury villa space near one of the world-class golf courses and practice playing a round in the green space overlooking the sea. Spend days at the beach to enjoy private water sports like jet skiing or wakeboarding. The Algarve is known for ideal waves to get active on!

Greece 

With such a variety of islands, Greece is ideally suited for luxury holidays. Explore your way through a top-pick island or hop between a few—the choice is yours. Enjoy incredible Greek private tours where itineraries are carefully crafted to give you the most personalised experience of the best islands. Discover the varied history of the capital and its influence on the rest of the world. In Athens, take on a private tour of the Acropolis and access the most blissfully quiet areas in the UNESCO-protected site. The area surrounding includes plenty of upscale cafes and restaurants for the perfect lunchtime pick-me-up. Embrace the exclusive nightlife scene, which attracts high-end clientele. Book a VIP table and enjoy bottle service right to you in vibrant Greek clubs. Mykonos is renowned for luxury. Offering stylish beach clubs to spend days lazing out in, and an array of five-star accommodations and restaurants to spend evenings in, you’re sure to be amazed. Charter a private yacht to spend days sipping champagne while marvelling at the crystal-clear waters and topping up a tan. Dine right in a world-class spot inspired by local ingredients and cooking traditions. 

Spain 

From the mainland to the islands of the Balearics and Canaries, Spain has so much luxury to offer. For a classic party scene, Ibiza is a top pick. Known for hosting world-class DJ events, upscale resorts and a laid-back atmosphere, the Balearic Isle is synonymous with lively luxe. Pick a beachfront hotel like Nobu where elegance is key, or uncover the wellness focus of Six Senses. The island is small enough to easily get to all the key party scenes no matter where you choose to stay. Ibiza has an exclusive dining scene, with many restaurants becoming sophisticated clubs as night falls. Lío Ibiza presents some of the world’s best cabaret performances for audiences to dance the night away in - only after you’ve indulged in the gourmet cuisine on the menu! On the mainland in the Costa del Sol, Marbella is a crowd-pleaser. Spend days at trendy beach clubs with vast sunbeds and saltwater pools to cool down in. Stay in accommodation near an elaborate golf club. With well-kept green space and surreal views, even novices are sure to come away as golfing lovers!

France 

Whether it’s beside the sea or a stay in one of the luxury cities, France is globally loved for a reason. Immerse yourselves in the pinnacle of luxury in Paris. The capital city is renowned for historic luxury and elegance presented in monuments and things to do. Enjoy private dining on the Eiffel Tower itself and be amazed at the panoramic views across the city. Arrange a personalised tour of the best monuments, like the Louvre to the Arc de Triumph. Unlock luxury barge cruises in France for another way to relax in a private setting. Head down the Canal de Garonne in Toulouse to the luxury UNESCO-protected area of Bordeaux. Here, explore prestigious vineyards and witness some of the world’s best wine production. Tour your way through the collection of grand estates and discover the city’s rich heritage. 

Italy 

From North to South, Italy has been a force to be reckoned with for decades. Enjoy a serene coastal escape on the South Coast of Amalfi, where luxury properties intertwine the landscapes. Take a boat trip to the island of Capri, famous for its Blue Grotto caves and enjoy a meal at a luxury spot. Escape to the Eternal City for a piece of historic haven. Rome is the capital for a reason, so let the landmarks do the talking as you walk cobblestone streets lined with incredible architecture. Take a private tour around the world’s largest amphitheatre ruins, the Colosseum, and then enjoy a luxury cocktail from a rooftop bar nearby. Escape city hustle and bustle with a five-star spa stay to enjoy evenings of rejuvenation.

Summary 

Europe’s landscapes are the perfect backdrop for luxurious travel, offering something for every traveler. Gather the whole gang back together for a reunion or simply celebrate friendship around world-class food and destinations.

Portugal, Greece, Spain, France, and Italy are Europe’s Top Luxury Destinations for a Mates Holiday.