A city stay is unlike any other getaway. The destination is the objective and delving into its secrets, history and culture is the adventure. Every exploratory jaunt must have its base – the perfect jumping-off point from which to discover. Anantara opens the doors to iconic urban destinations across the globe.

Rome – Italy

La dolce vita awaits in one of Europe’s most beloved cities. A treasure trove of historic, artistic, architectural and gastronomic discoveries, Rome captures the imagination – not to mention the heart – of every urban explorer. Inhabited for more than three millennia and dubbed by ancient poets “the Eternal City”, Rome constantly reinvents itself while holding onto its storied past.

Rediscover ancient icons like the Colosseum and the Pantheon. Stroll up the Spanish Steps or toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for luck. Find nature amid the city sprawl at Villa Borghese park or take in the scene with a spot of people-watching from a streetside cafe in hip Monti.

Where to stay: A centrally located, luxurious base for exploration, Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel makes a statement in grand marble architecture embracing the Piazza della Repubblica, with meeting rooms overlooking the Diocletian ruins and world-class dining by Chef Niko Sinisgalli. Take a dip in the rooftop pool, or sip a sunset aperitivo with endless views over the Eternal City.

Chiang Mai – Thailand

With its distinct heritage and fascinating history, this northern Thai hub is a colourful collision of culture, food and art. The capital of the Lanna Kingdom, which didn’t become part of modern Thailand until 1892, Chiang Mai is proudly unique and the centuries-old temples that pack the moat-protected Old City speak to its individualism.

Sample northern delicacies at the night bazaar and Worawat market, venture out into the countryside to visit artisan villages and mountain hill tribes for a glimpse of Lanna tradition. Explore the buzzing neighborhoods lining the banks of the Mae Ping river or tuk tuk over to trendy Nimmanhaemin road to take this thriving modern city’s pulse.

Where to stay: Overlooking the Ping River, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort captures a sense of serenity in the heart of Chiang Mai. True Thainess awaits in the authentic recipes served in a 100-year-old heritage house and the ancient treatments offered at the spa sanctuary. Delve deeper into local culture with a Muay Thai session or discover flavourful secrets in a cooking class.

Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

The capital of the United Arab Emirates packs culture, history and world-class leisure into an eminently explorable cityscape. The distinctive architecture of Qasr al-Hosn – the White Fort – jostles for skyline space with modern marvels and mega malls. Within just a short visit, you can experience the thrills of Ferrari World, discover the masterpieces at the Louvre and Guggenheim galleries, and venture back in time to a traditional souk in the Heritage Village. Whatever your itinerary, a day exploring the action-packed emirate is made complete with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Go at dusk, when the minarets and domes are artfully illuminated.

Where to stay: With the city in front and tranquil mangroves behind, Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel connects urban explorers to natural serenity. Stroll the promenade, take in the view or take to the water by kayak to explore the habitat of flamingos, herons and turtles. Soak up emirati hospitality and unwind in the Turkish hammam.

Bangkok – Thailand

Unsleeping yet laid back, mysterious yet welcoming, Bangkok lures travellers from far and wide. Culture vultures come to marvel at grand, glittering ancient temples in the old city. Foodies seek out the Michelin-starred delights of Sukhumvit or hot, fast, delicious street food, to devour at plastic tables in Chinatown. Shoppers find treasures in shining luxury malls and buzzing, sprawling markets. Explore the canals by traditional khlong boat to visit silk baron Jim Thompson’s house; sip carefully crafted cocktails at a skybar overlooking the city; wind through the labyrinthine back streets by tuk tuk and let Bangkok reveal itself.

Where to stay: In an unrivalled location in the heart of bustling Ratchaprasong, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel occupies Bangkok’s most prestigious address, just moments from the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, world-famous malls, and the Erawan Shrine. On the banks of the Chao Phraya, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is a tropical oasis, connected to the city by traditional teak boats.

And coming soon..

Luxurious Bases for European Exploration

On the east bank of the Danube, Budapest’s vibrant bars, galleries and theatres cluster around Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, whose New York Cafe – named the most beautiful in the world – has long been the gathering point for poets and artists. Stay tuned, this enchanting heritage hotel will be joining Anantara’s collection of European hotels very soon.

Overlooking Grand Canal Square in Dublin’s revamped docklands, a distinctive landmark attracts locals and visitors. Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel will boast the dual benefits of a central location with theatres, gardens and shopping on its doorstep, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Amsterdam allures with culture and charm. The canal-riddled hotspot boasts art, history and culinary adventures and soon it’ll all be at your fingertips at the Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. In what was once a cosy coffee house, you’ll find award-winning cocktails at The Tailor, Michelin-starred dishes in The White Room and luxurious rooms overlooking the National Royal Palace.

Opulent Oases in the Middle East

At The Plaza Doha by Anantara, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Qatari capital, surrounded by the luxuries of Arabian hospitality. Venture out to explore traditional souks and museums of Islamic art or stroll the waterside Corniche before returning to a Parisian-inspired palace.

A unique combination of city and beach retreat, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort promises a memorable escape for the whole family. Set on its own island teeming with tropical flora, encircled with pristine beaches and equipped with wellness and dining destinations, the resort is just 15 minutes to the jetty at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort – the gateway to the city.