Kiki Deere

Northern Italy offers an extraordinary variety of terrain and landscapes that will appeal to all levels of skiers. This is also one of Europe’s top heliskiing destinations (it’s banned in France) while the country’s alpine huts serve what is arguably Europe’s best mountain fare – all at a fraction of the cost of neighbouring Switzerland and France. I was brought up in Turin – the jumping off point for resorts in the northwest – and spent much of my childhood on the slopes, a constant thrill of cruising down well-groomed runs and trails through pinewood forests. The smart villages of Madonna di Campiglio and Cortina in the Dolomites are among Italy’s best-known resorts, but there are plenty of lesser known (and more affordable) spots around if you know where to look. With Italy now gearing up to host the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, skiing here is only going to get even better. Here are my top picks.  RECOMMENDED:💰 The most affordable ski holidays in Europe⛷️ The best ski resorts in Switzerland🇮🇹 The best places to visit in Italy🏨 The best hotels in Italy Brought up in Turin, Italy, travel writer and lakes expert Kiki Deere has been skiing in the country for most of her life. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guide

From watersports to hikes and boat trips to world-renowned restaurants, Europe’s lakes truly have it all. Maybe it’s all the scenic beauty and the peace and quiet, but there is just something very special about a lake holiday.  But not all lakes are created equal, and you’re going to want to choose the right one for your trip. On our list we’ve got the very best of lake life, from the most famous of all – we’re looking at you, Lake Garda – to lesser-known gems, along with what to eat, do and stay when you’re there too. Whatever your plans (and budget), here are the best lake trips in Europe.  RECOMMENDED:📍 Milan to Lake Como: the ultimate day trip⛵ The most beautiful lakes in the world🗺 The best city breaks in Europe🌎 The coolest neighbourhoods in the world Kiki Deere is an Anglo-Italian travel writer and photographer. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

About 70km south of Manila lies Lake Taal, a spectacular lake with a volcanic island rising from its centre. Weekends see Manileños descend to the area for some gentle hiking, relaxation and respite from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The jumping off point for the lake is Tagaytay, a compact city that commands a wonderful position on a ridge overlooking the lake and its volcano. Tagaytay has developed quickly over the last few years, with a fair share of hotels springing up around the centre and beyond, although tucked away here and there you’ll find some lovely hotels hidden away amid greenery offering a quiet peaceful corner and panoramic lake views, all within striking distance of the area’s attractions. Focuses might be on wellness, natural attractions or child-friendly activities, but there’s undoubtedly something for all comers in this beautiful destination.

Through the 20th century, Subic Bay, about 100km northwest of Manila, was known largely only to US Navy personnel, having been until 1992 the site of a 262 square mile base the US had taken from the Spanish. Fast-forward to the 21st century and the area has reinvented itself as a popular tourist spot offering extreme sports, ocean parks, safaris and plenty of duty-free shopping – as well as excellent wreck diving. The old base is today the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, a tax- and duty-free zone, with restaurants, shops and hotels located in the Central Business District. Tourist attractions – largely theme parks (Ocean Adventure, Tree Top Adventure, Zoobic Safari…) and beaches – are found a few kilometres south. Thanks to its proximity to the capital, Subic is a popular destination among Manileños, offering a smattering of hotels largely in the mid-range bracket. Among them are a handful of standout spots though, from those aimed at cycling fans and families to spots with private beaches and bars in lighthouses. Here’s our pick of the bunch.