The Best City And Beach Breaks In The World

City and beach holidays offer the best of both worlds – the chance to explore a new place and relax in the sunshine all in one trip. But with so many destinations to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best city and beach breaks in the world. From the stylish streets of Barcelona to the tropical paradise of Columbia, there’s something for everyone on this list.

So, if you’re looking for somewhere to escape the cold this winter or planning your summer vacation, read on for the best city and beach breaks in the world!

Why are city and beach breaks so popular?

City and beach breaks are great for any type of traveller, from couples seeking romance to families looking for adventure. You get the best of both worlds with a break like this – you can explore the city and sights during the day, and then enjoy some quiet time on the beach in between. More and more savvy travellers are choosing to book these types of trips due to their impressive affordability. Not only that, but these city and beach breaks also have plenty to offer in terms of activities and sightseeing opportunities, making them an ideal vacation option for those who want variety.

1. San Sebastián, Spain

San Sebastián is a stunning coastal city situated in Northern Spain's Basque Country. Historic Gothic-Basque architecture give the port city a charming, picturesque landscape. La Concha beach has a beautiful crescent-moon shaped coastline split apart by the deep emerald waters of the Bay of Biscay. The nearby hills are covered with lush forests.

In addition to its incomparable beauty, San Sebastián is an attractive destination for food lovers too. Pintxos and Michelin Star restaurants feature prominently amongst the culinary offerings available to visitors; some of the finest dining experiences in Europe can be found here!

My Great Holiday Recommends: Hotels

2. Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese beach town of Cascais is a premier summer playground. Its bay offers paddleboarding opportunities as well as easy access to the stunning Praia de Conceição, while Lisbon's iconic seven hills provide a unique urban backdrop with designer boutiques and old-world cafes, street art, crumbling mansions and famous yellow trams. This combination creates an unforgettable location for any traveler.

My Great Holiday Recommends: Hotels

3. Palma, Mallorca

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Palma's sunshine throughout the year makes it an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway. Take in the grand Gothic cathedral and the nearby Almudaina palace. Then explore the picturesque streets of Old Town, pausing for coffee and creamy ensaïmada from one of its many bakeries. Later on, relax on a beach while deciding on a cocktail from any of Palma's renowned bars or eateries.

My Great Holiday Recommends: Hotels

4. Sydney, Australia

Sydney is renowned for its pristine beaches and unique landmarks, offering the perfect balance of city culture and beach air. Just twenty minutes from the downtown area, Bondi Beach is one of the world's most iconic shorelines. With over 100 beaches to choose from, Sydney will captivate all holiday-goers. Of course, no trip here would be complete without a visit to the famed Sydney Harbour Bridge or Opera House. Plus, with new rooftop bars, theatre shows and designer shops popping up at every corner, there's something fresh and new around every corner. When you're ready for a break from exploring the city streets? Take some time out on one of Sydney's many stunning beaches!

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5. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a stunning, energetic coastal city that offers something for every type of traveler. From the sweeping beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the quieter Praia Vermelha beach, there are plenty of great spots for sunbathing, surfing, kayaking and more. And don't forget about Rio's cultural attractions—the downtown area has numerous art galleries and museums as well as excellent shopping. Maracanã Stadium is also an iconic spot that any football fan will love. The Serra da Carioca mountains provide a picturesque backdrop to it all, while the annual Carnival festival adds even more life to this truly idyllic city escape.

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6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is an incredibly vibrant city, sought after for its UNESCO-protected Old Town and its recent place in Game of Thrones lore. However, it also serves as a great beach destination due to its coastal location on the Dalmatian coast. Banje Beach and Sunset Beach are both nearby along the Lapad peninsula, and Sveti Jakov Beach offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. If you really want to see it all from up above, hop in the cable car for a ride up Mount Srđ - you won't regret it!

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7. Barcelona, Spain

The third stop on the list of Spanish destinations is Barcelona – a city that has something for everyone. Enjoy cutting-edge cuisine, stunning beaches, architectural wonders and a vibrant nightlife. If you're looking for a beach day, don't miss out on Barceloneta Beach – it's the most famous of Barcelona's seven man-made beaches. It's easily accessible by metro and stretches across 1.6 km – giving you plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun! Barcelona truly is one of the world’s best beach cities, so don't miss out on this amazing experience.

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8. Cape Town, South Africa

The city of Cape Town is renowned for its unmatched beauty, with a range of offerings that make it perfect for both family and romantic vacations alike. From the beaches, wildlife preserves, and the iconic Table Mountain to city tours and wine farms, there's something to suit every traveler. Explore the cultural heritage at local museums or join guided walking tours to learn more about the area's complex history. Don't miss trying some of the delicious foodie spots throughout town either! For those who love being active outdoors, take part in kayaking expeditions sunrise, mountain climbing during the day, and end with a relaxing swim in one of many sea-side tidal pools at sunset.

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9. Valletta, Malta

This picturesque port city is a great weekend escape for those looking for the cultural and historical treasures of Europe -- all at an affordable price. Stroll through the streets on foot to take in attractions such as the ornate St John’s Co-Cathedral with its renowned Caravaggio painting, and the Palace of Grand Masters as well as the 17th century Manoel Theatre. For beautiful views over the Grand Harbour, take a trip up to Upper Barrakka Gardens. Despite being known more for its rocky coastline rather than sandy beaches, there are still some scenic hidden coves worth seeking out, particularly on Malta's north end like Mellieha Bay, Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha). Consider visiting neighbouring Gozo island too where you can enjoy Ramla l-Hamra beach with red sand.

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10. Cartagena, Columbia

From the stunning stone walls of its old city to the radiant bougainvillea-framed balconies, visiting Cartagena is a truly unique experience. Guests can savor the world's finest coffee while soaking up the vibrant colonial architecture and Colombian culture. Explore lush tropical islands just minutes away, lively nightclubs such as La Movida, Alquimico, La Jugada, or Cafe Havana with salsa dancing until 6AM - Cartagena provides something special for everyone.

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11. Singapore

Singapore is well-known for being a port city, but many visitors are surprised to hear about the excellent beaches on its eastern side. Though locals don't usually spend too much time in the sun themselves, they have turned this area into a playground of recreational activities and culinary options. East Coast Beach is particularly popular - it features kayaking, paddle-boarding, windsurfing, a skate park and plenty of seafood restaurants. Of course, no trip would be complete without stopping at Lagoon Food Village, which is full of appetising stalls at great prices - and it's especially lively in the evening!

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How to make the most of your city and beach break

The key to making the most of your city and beach break is to plan ahead. Do your research before you leave and make a list of all the attractions you want to visit. Once you’ve done your research, create an itinerary so you can make the most of your time. Taking public transport is a great way to explore new cities, so look into the local buses and trains, as well as any hop-on-hop-off tour buses available. Take the opportunity to try some of the local cuisines as the best city and beach breaks offer a wealth of food, from world-famous restaurants to more traditional street food stalls. Lastly, make sure to get out and explore the beaches.