Our top 10 luxury city breaks

Why Athens: Famed as the home of Pericles, Socrates, and Plato, Athens is a hub of culture and creativity. In the shadow of the Parthenon, old and new sit side by side, in a city somehow synonymous with both history and modernity

What to do: Start the day in the soft light of sunrise at the Acropolis, wandering in the footsteps of ancient civilisations – and be sure to indulge in a little competition on an Athenian treasure hunt. When it’s time to refuel, take your pick of popular cafés spilling out into the sunshine, before escaping the heat to listen to a private guide lead you through history in a museum tour. Or, if city life leaves you pining for the shoreline, a trip to the Athenian Riviera is all it takes to reach the sapphire waters of the Saronic Gulf.

Why Istanbul: There has never been a better time to visit bustling Istanbul, Turkey’s most populous city and a favoured location for Bond film directors. Full of fascinating diversity, you’ll find arts and culture, a striking skyline, extravagant temples, traditional spas and an array of gourmet delights; this Middle Eastern Metropolis is sure to delight.

What to do: Explore the UNESCO-listed streets of the city or take a boat tour down the Bosphorus to take in some of Istanbul’s main attractions such as the Rumeli Ruins, the Maiden’s Tower and the many mosques. Sip Turkish tea or take some time out at a spa and indulge in an authentic Turkish bath experience. 

Why New York: New York needs little introduction – a big city with an even bigger personality. With an impressive skyline, unbeatable shopping and an abundance of different attractions and neighbourhoods to explore, there’s no wonder it’s said that the city never sleeps.

What to do: If it’s your first time in the city, you’ll want to tick off some of the main attractions – The Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and Times Square to name a few. Art connoisseurs will love exclusive early access to the MOMA and a private tour with an engaging expert which Carrier can arrange.

Why Funchal: Pretty and historic, yet often overlooked as a city break destination, Funchal is undeniably more laid-back than your average capital city. Small in size and easily explored on foot, its full of sprawling mountain scenes and stylish restaurants with no shortage of things to see.

What to do: A nature lovers paradise, visit the glorious gardens in which the city is known for or take to the ocean in search of marine life. Architectural buffs will love strolling around the old town teeming with historic buildings which date back as far as the Middle Ages. 

Why Venice: There’s few places as unique as Venice; narrow streets, tranquil canals and a city jam-packed with culture and exquisite architecture, this Italian gem draws people in year round and with good reason.

What to do: Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square and a gondola ride across some of the most iconic waterways in Europe, there’s plenty to see and do. Or, you’d be forgiven for lingering over a drink and watching the world go by at the side of a canal.