As luxury travellers increasingly seek to maximise their holidays, the traditional stopover is experiencing a reinvention. Once regarded as a necessary interruption to long-haul journeys, connecting cities are now seen as independent attractions and opportunities to discover additional cultures, cuisines and experiences within a single trip.
In line with a trend identified by luxury travel network Virtuoso as ‘city-maxxing’, these trips string destinations together into longer, multi-city itineraries, often crossing international borders. From London and Paris to Istanbul, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Toronto, Shangri-La offers luxurious bases from which to explore some of the world's most exciting stopover cities.
London – A City Break Before the Long-Haul Escape
For UK travellers based outside of the capital, Shangri-La The Shard, London provides the opportunity for a city break before even leaving the country. Ideally located next to London Bridge station, providing an easy route to the city’s various airports, and occupying the upper levels of one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, guests are within easy reach of spots such as Borough Market, the Tate Modern and St Paul's Cathedral. Within the hotel, contemporary Asian cuisine at TĪNG, skyline cocktails at GŎNG and the Sky Pool and Sauna, located on Level 52, provide the perfect prep before a long flight.
Travelling onward, British travellers can take their pick of Shangri-La destinations globally, with London’s six major airports reaching a total of 396 international destinations.
Istanbul - Where East Meets West
Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a compelling stopover for travellers seeking cultural experiences, with city highlights including the magnificent architecture of its mosques, the Grand Bazaar, and a vibrant culinary scene. Set along the Bosphorus, Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul invites guests to indulge in a traditional Turkish Hammam and immersive cultural experiences, from baklava-making to perfume workshops. Named the world's most internationally connected airport in OAG's 2026 Megahubs Index, Istanbul Airport offers onward journeys to 337 destinations worldwide. Turkish Airlines also conveniently flies the first leg to Istanbul from six UK airports: Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted.
Travellers can continue to Singapore, staying at the brand's flagship hotel, Shangri-La Singapore, or discover Australia's iconic harbour city with a stay at Shangri-La Sydney. New for October 2026, Turkish Airlines offers an Istanbul-Singapore-Sydney route.
Paris - Stop in the City of Light
To experience two entirely different sides of the world in one holiday, Paris and Phuket make an enticing pairing. Visitors can spend a few days in the French capital, exploring the Louvre, strolling along the Seine, and browsing the boutiques of the city's fashionable neighbourhoods. Occupying a former royal residence in the prestigious 16th arrondissement, guests at Shangri-La Paris will enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower and Seine, refined interiors and standout dining across French and Chinese gastronomy.
From Paris, continue to Phuket on Air France's nonstop service from Paris Charles de Gaulle, introduced in November 2025. Thailand's largest island offers a striking change of pace, with white-sand beaches, ornate temples and lively markets where visitors can explore the colourful streets of Phuket Old Town. Those wishing to extend their travels can venture to Shangri-La properties in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Dubai – From Dazzling Skyscrapers to Mauritian Shores
For travellers heading to Mauritius, Dubai is the ideal stopover location, splitting a long 13–14-hour journey in half. With a few days in Dubai, visitors can immerse themselves in the spectacle of its architectural landmarks, dining, beach clubs, along with cultural discoveries in the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood. Positioned on Sheikh Zayed Road, Shangri-La Dubai provides a sophisticated base for exploring the emirate, with views towards the Burj Khalifa and restorative wellness experiences at Chi, The Spa.
Travelling onward to Mauritius via direct flights with Emirates, the landscape shifts from towering skyscrapers to turquoise lagoons and tropical gardens. Set along the island's beautiful east coast, Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius offers six pristine beaches spanning 4km, tropical gardens, and two championship 18-hole golf courses, alongside exclusive access to Ilot Mangénie island.
Abu Dhabi – Arabian Culture Meets Sri Lankan Adventures
Abu Dhabi offers an appealing stopover for travellers heading to Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, discover world-class art at Louvre Abu Dhabi or immerse themselves in the city's diverse culinary scene, where traditional Emirati flavours sit alongside international influences. Overlooking the waters of Khor Al Maqta, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi offers a tranquil waterfront retreat with views towards the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
From Abu Dhabi, direct flights with Etihad Airways connect travellers to Colombo in approximately four and a half to five hours. Spending one night at Shangri-La Colombo, travellers can then head south to Shangri-La Hambantota, where restorative Hela Ayurveda treatments complement wildlife adventures at the nearby Yala National Park, with opportunities to spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears and an abundance of other wildlife.
Toronto – A Tale of Two North American Cities
For travellers crossing the Atlantic to California, Toronto is the perfect way to break up the journey, with direct flights from London Heathrow to Toronto on Air Canada. Over a few days, visitors can take in panoramic views from the CN Tower, explore collections at the Art Gallery of Ontario and enjoy the city’s dynamic culinary scene. Staying at Shangri-La Toronto, located on University Avenue, guests enjoy an urban sanctuary in the heart of the city
After exploring Toronto’s highlights, nonstop flights connect travellers to California's major cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. From the glamour of Hollywood and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the laid-back beaches of Southern California, the Golden State provides an exciting finale to a transatlantic escape.
