All around the world, curious and artistic people have created cities and spaces teeming with boisterous hues of blues, greens and reds (to name a few). However, the eclectic continent of Europe has continued to capture the hearts and camera lenses of luxury travellers season after season by being so resplendent with colour. Aesthetically pleasing with agreeable temperatures, whether it's a provincial village, a capital city or the coast, crowds love a jaunt through Europe for a life more picturesque.
But why does it matter if a destination is visually vibrant? Will the wash of a wall or a house mean the food is good, the locals are friendly, and the vibe is excellent? In other words, is the pigmentation of a place directly correlated with elation? Evidence seems to suggest that the answer is yes.
According to a study conducted by the University of Buffalo titled the "Psychology of Colour in Art": The psychological effects of colour have been studied in a variety of contexts, and have been described as having tangible effects on the viewer, such as calming or stimulating properties.
This published work has been cited online by over 4,000 scholarly articles, and with good reason. Humankind's relationship with colour has long been analysed and contemplated: Why does a bright sunny day makes us feel different than a stormy sky? How does a decorated room with rich tones effect our mood versus an empty white space?
Every colour, whether dull or explosive, stirs emotion inside every traveller. Below is our list of the top 10 most colourful and luxurious cities in Europe, featuring the hottest five-star hotels to rest your feet at between exploring these hubs of art and culture.
1. Cinque Terre
Just a boat ride away, Portofino is Cinque Terre's luxurious neighbour on the Ligurian coast. A popular port for megayachts, it's a stop off for the rich and famous like Rihanna, Madonna, and italian designers Dolce and Gabanna. Equally colourful and quaint, this is a hub of Italian luxury.
2. Lisbon
www.fourseasons.com/lisbon
3. Barcelona
Gaudí and Barcelona are synonymous, and his art has attracted lovers of mystical imagery from all corners of the globe. Experience art at its finest when staying at boutique design hotel, Hotel Arts Barcelona and The Serras, the site of Picasso's original studio.
4. Copenhagen
Stay at Radisson Blu Hotel to experience design aesthetics the Danish are so acclaimed for. A jaunt on the Frederiksstad waterfront will impress anyone looking for history in living colour.
5. Santorini
Who hasn't seen a photo of Santorini and wished they were immediately there, soaking in visions of endless Mediterranean sea views whilst eating a block of fresh feta cheese? Cheese lover or not, this Greek island has been named one of the most beautiful places in the world time and time again.
Katakies Hotel
+30 22860 71401
www.katikies.com
6. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
Some say Karlovy Vary, some say Carlsbad, everyone agrees it's a unique destination that feels like a European fairytale. Resembling a palate of Autumn tones, this lush Czech city was named after the King of Bohemia and remains a hub for incredible spas.
7. Stockholm
Famous for its iconic designs and calm way of life, Stockholm is a cosmopolitan city brimming with architecture, art, and shades of Scandinavian colour that make shopping, dining, and exploring that much more adventurous.
8. Murano
Home to the most incredible and historic blown glass factory, this neighbouring island to Venice is equally regarded for both glass and charming homes painted Gumby green and dandelion yellow, among other electric tones. Stay in one of the most glamorous suites in the world at Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Vencie.
www.belmond.com
9. Amsterdam
From tulips to disreputable districts where nightlife and art intermix, Amsterdam's inner workings are as fascinating as the buildings themselves. The canals are the portal to unexpected points-of-view, and what better way to see it all than staying at The Hoxton, the hottest new hotel in the city perched right along the water? Hint: there isn't.
www.thehoxton.com
10. Menton
Three words: South of France. It's not Cannes, it's not Nice, it's another French gem called Menton, a city comparable to the rest in terms of heritage, distinguished by the warm yellow tones and the locals affinity for lemons (Google: Lemon Festival Menton) Just 30 minutes from Nice, this is a must-visit for any trip to the tip of France.
www.lenegresco.com