Expert travel planners, who help tailor and book your perfect holiday
28 April 2017
Can’t decide between a city break or a few days spent lying on the sand? With these European city breaks, you can have both!
The sand may not be as glistening white as a tropical island but with these urban beaches, sunseekers can catch a museum in the morning and a few rays in the afternoon.
Barcelona
Grab a picnic and don’t forget the sun cream – Barcelona has over two miles (4.2km) of sandy beaches! And they’re only 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre. As Travel Counsellor Susan says, "Barcelona has to be one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and each time I go back I see something new. Foodies will love Barcelona and you should visit La Boqueria, the famous market on Las Ramblas."
Paris
See Paris with 5000 tonnes of sand as the Georges-Pompidou expressway (4th) and the La Villette canal basin (19th) are transformed into Paris Plages!
Open from 22nd July to 13th August 2017
Berlin
Beach bars pop up all over Berlin during the summer months, and there’s something for everyone. Sand, a large floating swimming pool, and Europe’s largest beach volleyball court are all here!
Travel Counsellor Andrew visited Berlin last year and loved this vibrant city: "A city perfect for history-lovers, those with an interest in society, people who want to experience something new or those who love to shop, Berlin has it all."
San Sebastián (Basque: Donostia)
Tuck into exquisite pintxos (bite-sized morsels) or head to one of the Michelin-starred restaurants, and don’t miss taking a dip in the sea in this beautiful city.
Amsterdam
Need a little rest between sightseeing and wandering along the canals? Head to Blijburg aan Zee, Amsterdam’s main city beach, on the man-made island of IJburg.
Dubrovnik
Dip a toe in the twinkling Adriatic Sea and then wander among stunning architecture and winding streets in this exquisite city!
In Dubrovnik, enjoy the hustle and bustle during the day, walk on the walls or take the cable car up Mount Srd. Take the classic photo of the Old Town from a vantage point. Shop in the quaint shops or market. My favourite time is in the evening - sit in a square and enjoy some jazz (there are less people around as the big cruise ships have left) Find the hidden bar by going through the wall to sit outside and watch the sunset."
Valencia
Meander through the city centre for you’ll be met with the golden sands of Valencia’s Las Arenas. Wander a little further and you’ll reach the picturesque La Malvarrosa Beach. Whilst you’re here, don’t forget to sample paella – Valencia is renowned for this mouthwatering dish!
Brighton & Hove
The beach might be shingle rather than sand but when the warm weather hits London, this is one of the beaches Londoners flock to. And it never fails to delight! Walk to the end of Brighton Pier, eat fish and chips, and potter around the quaint shops lining the alleys of The Lanes.
Ready to head off on your city break? Get in touch with your Travel Counsellor today to plan your European city and beach holiday!
