City Break or Beach Holiday? How to Do Both in Spain

Plan the perfect Spain getaway by combining vibrant city breaks with relaxing beach holidays, with tips on destinations, timing, and seamless travel routes.

When you’re considering your summer holiday options, you might find yourself torn between two equally appealing, and seemingly contradictory, options. A city break might represent a chance to immerse yourself in an unfamiliar history and culture, while a beach holiday is a chance to unwind and soak in the sunshine.

However, there are many parts of the world where it’s possible to enjoy both kinds of holiday experience in the same place. The resulting holiday can often feel much more varied and well-rounded.

Why Combining City and Beach Holidays Is on the Rise

UK tourists increasingly prefer hybrid trips. Around 48% of people plan a beach holiday, with 47% looking for a city break. There is considerable overlap between these two groups – and, in many cases, the overlap occurs within the same trip.

The same data reveal that Spain continues to be the most popular spot for tourists. Around 32% of people take their holidays there, with island breaks in the Canaries and the Balearics being particularly popular.

Best Spanish Destinations for City + Beach in One Trip

If you want to enjoy a Spanish city, and a Spanish beach, at the same time, then you’ll want to consider a trip to a coastal city. The good news is that this is where Spain holidays tend to excel.

Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga and Palma might all appeal for different reasons. In Barcelona, the near-completed Sagrada Família should be considered a must-see; in Valencia, the UNESCO-listed silk exchange is difficult to discount.

Planning Your Trip: Travel, Timing and Practical Tips

If you want to strike a balance between the city centre and the beach, then you’ll need to plan your adventure that little bit more meticulously. That way, you won’t risk one section of your holiday spilling into the other. Travel outside peak season if you want to cut your costs, and avoid the crowds. It’s worth also thinking about the recently introduced border systems around the Schengen area, which might otherwise take you by surprise.

Travel Smarter: Sustainability and Changing Tourism in Spain

In recent times, the Spanish tourist experience has been thrown into question by concerns – and protests – around overtourism. In some cases, these concerns have resulted in policy changes. It’s always worth thinking about how you might reduce the impact of your trip – both on the place you’re visiting, and the natural world. Where possible, try to visit lesser-known places, and to book outside of peak season.