2 hotels in Seattle

Step back in time at Pioneer Square. If the buildings in Seattle’s original neighbourhood could talk, they would share stories from the Gold-Rush era onwards. Dating back to 1852, Pioneer Square has seen a lot of changes, and is now a thriving public space and home to the stunning King Street Station and a 22ft-tall waterfall. And best of all, it's all just a stone's-throw away from citizenM Pioneer Square hotel. Downtown Seattle is also home to Seattle Ferry Terminal. Take a boat out to Bainbridge Island and explore the state of Washington in a unique way.

Not yet, but head down Aurora Ave in Seattle and you'll find incredible cuisine from all over the world.

The Pink Door on Post Alley is the most unusual Italian restaurant we have been to - enjoy burlesque acts and aerial acrobatics as you eat - the food is just as incredible as the entertainment! Or for the best sushi in Seattle, Sushi Kashiba pushes the (fishing) boat out.

How better to recover from a night out in Washington's coolest music hot spot? Brunch is definitely on the menu at Portage Bay Cafe. This organic Seattle-based chain uses sustainable ingredients - which makes their eggs Benedict and veggie bowls taste even better. Or how about something sweeter? Go for pancakes and French toast with a sneaky pre-noon cocktail at Geraldine’s Counter on Rainier Ave.

Zoom up to The Space Needle Observation Deck in Seattle's center for panoramic views of the West Coast (cue some wow-factor photos). Or if heights aren't your thing, pull up a deckchair in Alki Beach Park, West Seattle, for a dreamy evening looking out across Elliott Bay.

Seattle is famous for its incredible range of seafood. The Walrus and the Carpenter on Ballard Avenue NW is THE spot for shucking oysters like a pro. We dare you to leave this place without having a basket to yourself. Or maybe you're in the mood for something with a little more heat. Ono Authentic Hawaiian Poke brings a splash of island cuisine to Rain City with its delicious poke bowls and spicy salmon.

What you heard about Seattle weather is true - expect rain. Keep warmer and drier from June to September when temperatures hit the early to mid 20s with more chance of sunshine (but don't leave without a rain poncho and umbrella).

Delve into some fresh flavors at Fremont Brewing's Urban Beer Garden for artisanal, award-winning beers on the north coast of the lake with a view of the water. Or have a drink with a big cheesy grin at Optimism Brewing Company. This brewery close to Seattle University brings tasty beers to the locals and has a real community vibe.

The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the one most visitors fly into - and it has an excellent light rail link to downtown Seattle which takes around 40 minutes and stops at key stations like University of Washington, Pioneer Square and Capitol Hill. You can also take an Uber or taxi anytime. There are also smaller airports a bit farther away - King County International, Renton Municipal, and Kenmore-Air Lake Union for sea planes.

Treat yourself - you're on holiday! Slip into the soothing spa setting of Banya 5. A Banya massage or body scrub will leave you feeling renewed and refreshed, whatever the weather. If you have a particular ache or pain, The Massage Sanctuary - a couple of blocks from Volunteer Park - will sort that right out.