Opulent Vacations for the Adolescent Age Group
Heading to Rome with a teenager? This is the perfect time to explore some of your favorite destinations and create unforgettable family memories before they fly the coop. Here's our guide to experiencing Rome like a boss, tailored for those with slightly older kids.
Short Haul: Rome, Italy
Even the grumpiest teenagers won't scoff at Rome's culinary delights and rich history. Make it extra special by coordinating a trip with their school curriculum, so your luxury holiday feels more like an educational investment. Whether they're obsessed with history, art, or pizza, Rome has something for everyone.
What to See/Do
Rome boasts countless historical, artistic masterpieces, and iconic sights. Teens and adults alike will love this vibrant, cosmopolitan city.
The Colosseum. No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to this iconic structure. Built in 70 AD, the Colosseum offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Ancient Rome. Fight off boredom with VR tours and buy tickets early to avoid the queues. You can also score combo tickets for the Forum, Colosseum, and Palatine Hill.
Trevi Fountain. Recognize this beauty from popular movies? Rumor has it that throwing a coin into the fountain will make your wish come true. Snap a selfie here while adults marvel at one of Rome's largest and most impressive baroque fountains.
Vatican City. It's not technically part of Rome, but a visit to the Vatican City is a must. Not only is it the smallest state in the world, but it also houses one of the world's most impressive art collections, including the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's renowned fresco of God and Adam. Grab tickets ahead of time to skip the long lines, especially in the morning.
Where to Stay
Staying at high-end hotels is a breeze with a teenager in tow. Most luxury hotels offer suites or two private rooms to give you and your teenager some privacy.
Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection. This sophisticated hotel is located in one of Rome's most exclusive areas and is only 500 meters from the Spanish Steps. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace, Michelin-starred restaurants, and luxurious spa and wellness center.
Harry's Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant. This five-star hotel is within easy walking distance of some of Rome's most iconic sights, shopping, and restaurants. You can book a family room that includes two single beds, one double bed, and a pull-out sofa, as well as flat-screen TVs—something teenagers will appreciate.
Corso 281 Luxury Suites. With a convenient location only 600 meters from Trevi Fountain, Corso Suites offers families the option to choose a studio deluxe with a large double bed and a pull-out sofa. The hotel can also help arrange live music performances, cooking classes, and bike tours.
Best Time of Year to Go
Rome enjoys warm summers with highs reaching 32 degrees Celsius, making it a great time to explore the city. In winter, temperatures can plummet to 3 degrees Celsius, but snow is rare. Visit during the shoulder seasons of Autumn or Spring for the best weather. Avoid school holidays to dodge the crowds.
Long Haul: New York, USA
New York City captures the imagination of everyone, including teenagers. Dancers will delight in the opportunity to see a Broadway show, while sports fans can catch a Yankees game and artists can view world-renowned collections at MoMA. New York truly has something for everyone, making it the ideal destination for luxury holidays with teenagers.
What to Do
Time Square. Feeling the buzz of NYC? Visit the iconic Times Square. With massive billboards and flagship stores, Times Square is an unforgettable experience. Take your teenager on a shopping spree, catch a Broadway show, or simply marvel at the colorful atmosphere.
The High Line. A former elevated railway line turned park, the High Line offers stunning views of the city and significant modern artwork. Take a leisurely stroll with your teenager and appreciate the urban beauty.
Central Park. Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is a must-visit for anyone visiting NYC. rent a bike, go boating, or simply relax on the grass while your teenager takes stunning photos for Instagram.
Where to Stay
New York offers a plethora of luxury hotels, perfect for traveling with a teenager.
The Langham. Located in midtown Manhattan, the Langham offers trendy accommodations with iPod docking stations, espresso makers, and room service. Guests can also enjoy the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant and fantastic fitness center. Opt for suites to ensure you have enough space.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel. The five-star Beekman Hotel offers stylish, upscale accommodations with custom beds, leather headboards, oak floors, and craft cocktail tables. There's also an on-site fitness center and two excellent restaurants.
The Whitby Hotel. In upper midtown Manhattan, The Whitby is within easy walking distance of Saks on Fifth Avenue and Central Park. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering breathtaking city views. There's also an on-site restaurant and a high-end fitness center.
Best Time of Year to Go
New York City can become sweltering hot during the summer with highs reaching 29 degrees Celsius. Autumn (September to November) brings mild days and brilliant foliage, making it a fantastic time to visit. If you can brave the cold, winter offers famous holiday attractions like ice skating in Rockefeller Square or catching the Radio City Christmas Show.
UK: London
If your teenager hasn't already been to London, they're likely itching to go. With its endless live music performances, trendy neighborhoods, and iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, London is the place to be. Why not plan a short family break to the UK's most popular city? This destination will definitely satisfy even the coolest teenagers.
What to Do
Street Art Walking Tours. London is home to some of the best street art in the world, including works by Banksy. Join a street art walking tour to find it all and explore some of London's trendier neighborhoods.
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Experience iconic English theater by attending a play at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Immerse yourself in the immersive outdoor productions, and prepare to be amazed.
London Dungeons. If your teenager loves the spooky, visit the London Dungeons for a thrilling look into London's darker past. This interactive experience is loaded with terrifying surprises and Cant wait to book an adventure!
Where to Stay
London offers numerous luxury hotels catering to teenagers' needs. Plan ahead and pick one that's within easy travel distance to where you want to spend the most time.
Haymarket Hotel. Haymarket Hotel, located in the heart of Theatreland, offers chic, contemporary accommodations with plush furnishings and unique artwork. Rooms feature a complimentary mini-bar, designer toiletries, and vintage games for a touch of nostalgia.
The Stafford London. A classic, five-star hotel set in a beautiful 19th-century townhouse, The Stafford London offers luxurious rooms with antique furniture, 4-poster beds, and cozy fireplaces. The hotel offers a tranquil Garden Courtyard and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Mansion. This quirky, 9-room boutique hotel offers bespoke, individually-designed rooms with themes ranging from Hollywood to the Deep Blue Sea. Guests can also enjoy complimentary drink and canapes each evening.
Best Time of Year to Go
London's temperature remains relatively mild throughout the year, with summer highs of 23 degrees Celsius and winter lows of 5 degrees Celsius. Even during the wettest months (December to March), there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep teenagers entertained. The summer turns London into an outdoor paradise, with concerts, festivals, and parks coming alive with outdoor activities. Notting Hill Carnival, a must-see event, happens in late August.
So, pack your bags and create magical memories with your teenager on your luxury holiday to Rome, New York, or London. Enjoy!
- Prepare for an exciting culinary adventure in Rome, Italy, where even the most reluctant teenagers will find themselves captivated by the city's rich history and delectable dishes.
- For the cultured teen, New York City offers a unique experience with world-renowned collections at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the opportunity to catch a Broadway show, making it an ideal destination for luxury holidays with the younger generation.
