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Malaga holidays are having a bit of a renaissance right now. Once the jumping-off point for its neighbouring resort towns, this bustling seaside city is garnering some star appeal of its own. Its swanky port and spruced up old town boast Michelin stars, boutique shops and towering fortresses. Visit the Soho district, an icon of underground culture with murals from internationally renowned graffiti artists like Obey and Manuel León. Malaga, with its charming architecture and vibrant art scene, is one of the oldest cities in Europe and the birthplace of Picasso. 

Things to do

If you want to soak up the culture of an ancient metropolis, shop till you drop in trendy boutiques and sample authentic Andalusian cuisine, holidays to Malaga are for you. The best way to explore this beautiful city is on foot. Wander through cobbled alleyways and leafy parks to see some of its most fascinating landmarks and awe-inspiring street art. Along the way, you can refuel in the best tapas joints in Spain.

The Beaches

Malaga has seven sandy beaches ideal for soaking up its 300 days of sunshine. The closest to the city is La Malagueta, a lively Blue Flag beach with a bustling promenade, around 2km from the Alcazar. It has excellent fish shacks, restaurants and bars, a children’s play area and plenty of palm trees and parasols for shade. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head to Playa Peñón del Cuervo. It's perfect for those searching for a break from the beach bars.

History & Culture 

With 3,000 years of history, the skyline is a mix of ancient fortresses, elegant archways and modern art galleries. From the Moorish Alcazaba to the Catholic Santuario de la Victoria, the Roman amphitheatre, and the colourful glass cube of the Pompidou Centre, Malaga city breaks are loaded with history and culture. 

Food

Malaga’s culinary scene is one of the most inventive in southern Spain. The city is a food lover's paradise, from hole-in-the-wall tapas bars and open-fire beach BBQs to fine dining on the waterfront. Breakfast like the Malagueños (Malagans) with still-hot churros (Spanish donuts) dipped in chocolate, lunch on freshly caught sardines, or even join a food walking tour to uncover the city’s hidden gems. The weather in Malaga also lends itself to rooftop bars with exceptional mountain views. For the most breathtaking vistas over the port, head to AC Hotel by Marriott Malaga Palacio. 

Shopping

If you love shopping, then holidays to Malaga need to be on your radar. From the elegant promenade along the port to the boutiques that line Plaza de la Constitución, you’ll find shoes, handbags and accessories from some of Spain’s top designers. The Made in Soho market is also a must-see if you want to soak up the atmosphere of the art district. Here, you can pick up locally made artisan ceramics, jewellery and artworks. Make the most of the city’s bustling shopping quarters by ordering your travel money before you set off.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Majorca | Menorca

Holidays to Palma embody the perfect balance as a city break destination. Stepped in tradition with its wonderful architecture, it radiates an air of class and style, yet still succeeds as a sunseekers’ paradise fit for all. The centrepiece of the Old Town is the gothic style cathedral, completed in 1601. Plus, there’s impressive culinary and nightlife scenes.

History & Culture 

Palma was founded as a Roman base, on the remains of a Bronze Age settlement. Since then the city has been the subject of numerous conquerings. The oldest buildings you can see today date from the 13th century. These were constructed following the Conquest of Majorca, led by James I of Aragon. 

Things to do

With a Palma City Break you can soak up the local history and culture with a walk around the Old Town. The Royal Palace of La Almudaina (closed Mondays) is the official residence of the King and Queen during their stays in Mallorca. Head up to Castell de Bellver to see a rare example of a circular castle, also boasting fantastic views over the city. Standing tall on the waterfront is the stunning Palma Cathedral. Its nave is 44m high, even taller than the Notre Dame in Paris. 

Food & Drink

Palma's Old Town is a treasure trove of delicatessens, where you’ll find regional cheeses, olives, honey, liquors and much more. Mallorcan cuisine is largely based on pork, fish and regional vegetables. Local favourites include Arros Brut (Rice Stew) and Llom amb Col (made with pork loin and cabbage). Visit one of the city’s bakeries for the chance to sample Quartos Embetumats. These traditional lemon cakes are both gluten free and vegan friendly. For the nightlife scene head to Paseo Maritimo.

Shopping

Small boutique stores sell a range of traditional Mallorcan arts and crafts. Choose from coloured vases, traditionally made espadrilles (sandals), wicker hats and small decorative items. As with most Spain city break destinations, you’ll find an El Corte Ingles department store, stocking almost everything you can think of.

Beaches

When you feel the urge to relax, Cala Major Formentor provides a 200m stretch of white Majorcan sands, suitable for the whole family. If you fancy a romantic seaside walk or open water swimming head to Platja de Can Pere Antoni, also known as Palma City Beach.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Balearic Islands | Barcelona | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Majorca | Menorca

Barcelona holidays are a fusion of laid-back beach days and vibrant city life. Set on Spain’s northeast coast with a balmy Mediterranean climate, it's the perfect setting for sightseeing or relaxing on its golden sands. It’s also home to centuries of history, so when you’re not exploring Gaudi’s modernist spectacles you could be getting lost in the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter. Now throw in tasty Catalan dishes, one of the world’s most famous football stadiums and amazing green spaces, and you’ve got a city that ticks all the boxes.

6 reasons to visit Barcelona

• Food glorious food: Start your day with freshly baked bread drizzled in olive oil and smeared with tomatoes (pan tumaca), before digging into vegetable stew (escudella) for lunch. As for dinner, it has to be coca! Think of it as a Catalan mini pizza, this flatbread is usually topped with roasted vegetables and sausage. 
• The perfect beach & city combo: If you want the best of both worlds, Barcelona holidays won’t disappoint. Think cutting-edge architecture, trendy fashion stores and narrow cobbled streets fronted by three miles of sun-soaked coastline. 
• Awe-inspiring Gaudi architecture: No trip to Barcelona is complete without admiring the world-renowned Sagrada Familia (let’s face it, you can’t miss it!), quirky Casa Batllo and Park Guell, just some of Antoni Gaudi’s stand-out creations. 
• Historic city centre: It’s easy to lose yourself in Barcelona’s Gothic quarter, and trust us, you want to! These maze-like streets hide some of the city’s oldest restaurants such as Can Culleretes, as well as cocktail lounges, a jaw-dropping 13^th century cathedral and one of Gaudi’s first projects (the street lamps decorating Plaça Reial, one of Spain’s grandest squares). 
• An epic art scene: Whether you’re searching for Picasso masterpieces, murals by Miro or contemporary pieces by independent artists, you’re not short of exhibits to visit. From the Centre of Contemporary Culture to the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
• Football famous: The largest stadium in Europe with a capacity of 100,000, the atmosphere at Camp Nou is electrifying. Catch FC Barcelona in action or bag yourself an exclusive tour. But for trophies, memorabilia and football shirts worn by sports legends, be sure to make a pitstop at its museum. Some stadium tours include an immersive VR experience. Tickets aren’t cheap but children under four can join for free.

Things to do

Barcelona is the ultimate city break destination, surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other. And there are more than enough attractions to fill a long weekend. Walk streets perfect for shoppers and sightseers, where trendy boutiques sit close to Gaudi’s modernist masterpieces and centuries-old churches. It’s right by the Med too, so you can tick off the capital’s biggest sights in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon. Then, when you’ve had enough sun for one day, there are plenty of waterside restaurants serving tasty Catalan seafood. Whatever it is you want from your next city break, Barcelona has it by the bucketload.

A vibrant beach scene

Cool off in the sea atone of Barcelona’s stunning beaches. La Barceloneta is the city’s answer to Miami’s South Beach. There’s always something going on along this 4km long stretch and its buzzing boardwalk is the perfect place to take it all in with restaurants, cafes and chiringuitos (beach bars) overlooking its sands. 

If you want to try some watersports on your Barcelona city break, look no further than Nova Icària. Windsurfing is a must on breezy Med days. Prefer your beach days a little bit more peaceful?  Then, hop on the metro to Bogatell. This Blue Flag beauty is great for relaxing dips and games of volleyball. Once your batteries are recharged, wind down with a drink in La Rambla or the Gothic Quarter.

Cultural treasures

Barcelona’s culture starts with its architecture. From medieval to modernist, the city is the perfect blend of old and new. Fans of Gaudi shouldn't miss a chance to see the skeleton balconies of Casa Batlló and his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia. But the hillside Park Güell is like stepping inside the artist’s weird but wonderful imagination. From a dragon fountain to an elephant cave and his former home, this iconic green space is one of a kind. For more art-filled attractions, make sure you squeeze in a trip to the Contemporary Art and Picasso Museum.

Over in Ciutat Vella (Old City) you’ll find some of Europe’s best-preserved landmarks. Standing high above the ancient streets, you can’t miss Barcelona Cathedral - the centrepiece of the Gothic Quarter. Besides its well-known buildings, there’s no better way to see the city like a local than a shopping trip at at the Mercat de la Boqueria food market, or watching a home game at the 100,000-seater Camp Nou Stadium.

Catalan roots

Barcelona’s Catalonian origins are an important part of the city. From its own history, language and cuisine, there are so many ways to absorb this unique culture. Festivals are big here, with celebrations across just about every neighbourhood. Plan your Barcelona holidays in autumn and attend two of its biggest events: National Day of Catalonia (11th September) and La Mercè (24th September). Alternatively, food is another great way to get a taste of the city’s Catalan traditions. Look out for popular dishes like escalivada (roasted red peppers, aubergineand onions) or butifarra (a spiced sausage) for the most authentic dining experience.

More travel guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Balearic Islands | Canary Islands | Costa Almeria | Costa Blanca | Costa Brava | Costa Dorada | Costa del Sol | Fuerteventura | Gran Canaria | Lanzarote | Tenerife | Ibiza | Madrid | Malaga | Majorca | Menorca

The capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is a fascinating destination where ancient landmarks jostle together with bustling neighbourhoods and huge cosmopolitan nightclubs.

A city break in Athens promises plenty of history, culture, nightlife, and unforgettable sights that you’ll treasure the memory of forever. Explore the city’s rich past at the Acropolis, browse the boutiques in Plaka, then round off your day at the spectacular Odeon of Herodes Atticus theatre.

Things to do

There’s something to suit every holidaymaker in Athens. History fans will love exploring ancient ruins, like the world-famous Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is another must, while the Ancient Agora of Athens is similarly impressive.

Enjoy modern Athenian culture when you explore beautiful and bustling local neighbourhoods. There are plenty of shops and traditional eateries scattered around. At the same time, the nightlife is sure to meet even the highest expectations of the Greek capital city.

Sights

Athens is an ideal destination for keen historians and those looking to immerse themselves in ancient culture. Start at the Acropolis, the ancient citadel of Athens, where several ancient remains remain for visitors to explore. The Parthenon is the most iconic, while the modern Acropolis Museum is the perfect place to learn about the area. You should also try and make time to see Ancient Agora, the heart of the city centuries ago, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Athens doesn’t have many green spaces, which makes Stavros Niarchos Park even more special. Its landscaped paths, children’s playground, and proximity to the ocean make this park an ideal place to cool off.

Neighbourhoods

Like many major cities, Athens is home to several neighbourhoods, attracting diverse residents and visitors to the one that suits them best.

Start with Plaka, a busy tourist-favourite at the centre of old Athens. It’s a beautiful area to stroll around, getting lost in small lanes among rows of pastel buildings. Next, Kolonaki is a wealthy residential neighbourhood with lots of luxurious bars, restaurants, and shops.

Syntagma is Athens’ political heart, while Monastiraki is famous for its flea market and bustling narrow lanes. Gazi-Kerameikos is the city’s youthful art, design, and nightlife district, transforming to accommodate local and tourist revellers when the sun goes down.

Searching for something quieter? Head to Thissio, a beautiful residential neighbourhood with plenty of independent eateries and shops.

Food & drink

Greek food uses typical Mediterranean ingredients, with many unique elements and dishes you won’t find anywhere else. When in Athens, expect plenty of grilled meat and fish, delicious fresh salads, olive oil, and flatbreads. Try traditional meze, selecting small plates including various dips, olives, bread, vegetables, meat, and cheese. Moussaka is another must, with layers of aubergine, minced lamb, tomato, and spices. Charcoal-grilled meat and fish is always a good option in Athens, often served with fresh tomatoes, yoghurt, and flatbreads.

In the mood for something sweet? Athenians have plenty to offer, including flaky filo pastry desserts sweetened with honey and basted in olive oil. Grab some traditional baklava for a perfect end to any meal, or enjoy local honey on Greek yoghurt for breakfast.

Nightlife

If you’re interested in experiencing Athens’ vibrant nightlife, you’ll have plenty of choices no matter what you’re into. Enjoy a luxurious evening of dinner and cocktails or party like a local in a lesser-known bar or nightclub.

Koukaki is ideal for floating between sophisticated bars, while Gazi is a must for fans of super clubbing. Psyrri is a trendy, gentrified area with endless bars and music spots. Patsion is home to one of Athens’ oldest bars, Au Revoir Bar, a must if you’re exploring local history.

Athens Riviera

Athens Riviera is the coastal area south of the city, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing and swimming along the beautiful shore. The sheltered coastline is fringed with palm trees and dotted with parasols and sunbeds. There are beach bars and clubs where holidaymakers can grab a drink or bite to eat and settle in for a comfy few hours in the sun or shade.

The beach is just 20 minutes drive out of Athens, and while you might not want to hire a car for your city break, many taxis and busses can get you there for just a few Euros.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kassiopi | Kavos | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Roda | Santorini | Sidari | Skiathos | Skopelos | Zante