For many travellers, choosing between a relaxing beach holiday and an exciting city break can feel like an impossible decision. Fortunately, there are plenty of destinations around the world that offer the chance to experience the best of both worlds, allowing travellers to spend the morning unwinding on golden sands before exploring historic landmarks, world-class museums, luxury shopping districts and award-winning restaurants later in the day. These unique beach cities combine vibrant urban culture with spectacular coastlines, making them ideal for unforgettable, multi-faceted holidays.
At Elegant Resorts, our Luxury Travel Specialists have travelled extensively across the globe, experiencing first-hand many of the world's finest coastal destinations. Drawing on our own knowledge and expertise, we've selected what we believe are the five best beach cities to visit for travellers seeking the perfect combination of relaxation, culture and luxury. While every traveller has their own personal favourites, these destinations consistently stand out for offering exceptional beaches alongside outstanding city experiences.
So, if you're wondering which cities with beaches to add to your tailor made holiday package, here are 5 of our favourite beach city destinations that need to be at the very top of your short list.
1. Barcelona - Spain
Barcelona effortlessly earns our number one spot thanks to its unique ability to combine one of Europe's most exciting city breaks with miles of beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Few cities with beaches offer such a diverse range of experiences within such a small radius, making the Catalan capital one of the world's most rewarding luxury beach city holiday destinations.
The city's famous beachfront stretches for over 2.5 miles, with Barceloneta Beach being the best known. Here, visitors can relax beneath the Spanish sunshine, enjoy watersports or dine at stylish beachfront restaurants serving freshly caught seafood and traditional Catalan cuisine. The promenade itself is lined with cafes, cocktail bars and lively beach clubs that create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Away from the sand, Barcelona offers an extraordinary collection of cultural attractions. Antoni Gaudí's architectural masterpieces, including the magnificent Sagrada Família, Park Guell and Casa Batllo, are among the most recognisable landmarks in Europe. The historic Gothic Quarter is home to charming medieval streets, while Las Ramblas buzzes with markets, street performers and local life throughout the day and into the evening.
Luxury travellers are equally well catered for here, with 5 star hotels overlooking the Mediterranean, Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques along Passeig de Gracia and an exciting nightlife scene. Whether you're interested in art, gastronomy, shopping or simply relaxing by the sea, Barcelona delivers one of the finest beach and city holiday experiences available anywhere in the world.
2. Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Dubai has redefined what travellers expect from beach cities, seamlessly blending futuristic architecture with pristine stretches of soft white sand and warm waters throughout much of the year. For visitors seeking luxury, few cities with a beach can rival Dubai's extraordinary offering.
The city's beaches provide something for everyone, from the lively atmosphere of Jumeirah Beach to the exclusive private beaches attached to many of Dubai's world-renowned luxury resorts. Crystal-clear waters, world class hospitality and spectacular views of landmarks including the iconic Burj Al Arab create an unforgettable setting for the ultimate beach escape.
Beyond the coastline lies one of the world's most exciting modern cities. Visitors can admire breathtaking views from the Burj Khalifa, shop in the enormous Dubai Mall, explore traditional souks filled with spices and gold or enjoy thrilling desert safaris just beyond the city skyline. Dubai also boasts a remarkable culinary scene, featuring restaurants created by internationally renowned chefs alongside authentic Emirati dining experiences.
Families, couples and honeymooners will all find something to love in Dubai thanks to its incredible diversity. Whether you plan on relaxing at an exclusive beach club, enjoying luxury yacht cruises around the marina or exploring innovative attractions such as the Museum of the Future, Dubai offers a unique combination of beach relaxation and trend setting entertainment.
3. Nice - France
Situated along the glamorous French Riviera, Nice has long been regarded as one of Europe's most elegant coastal destinations. Combining timeless sophistication with stunning Mediterranean scenery, it remains one of the best cities with beaches for travellers seeking culture, sunshine and refined luxury.
The famous Promenade des Anglais curves gracefully alongside the Baie des Anges, providing spectacular views across the sparkling coastline. The city's pebble beaches are lined with stylish private beach clubs where guests can enjoy attentive customer service, luxurious loungers and exceptional dining options while soaking up the Riviera sunshine.
Nice itself is every bit as captivating as its coastline. The colourful Old Town is filled with characterful narrow streets, bustling markets, historic churches and charming cafes, while local museums dedicated to artists such as Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall celebrate the city's rich artistic heritage. Luxury shopping, elegant hotels and award winning restaurants further enhance Nice's reputation as one of France's premier holiday destinations.
One of Nice's greatest advantages is unquestionably its location. The city provides easy access to glamorous destinations such as Monaco and Cannes, making it an ideal base from which to explore the wider Cote d'Azur while enjoying one of Europe's most beautiful beach cities.
4. Cascais - Portugal
Often described as Portugal's most stylish seaside resorts, Cascais perfectly balances relaxed coastal charm with refined elegance. Located just a short drive from the city of Lisbon, it offers visitors an outstanding combination of picturesque beaches, rich history and easy access to world class city attractions.
The coastline surrounding Cascais features numerous golden sandy beaches sheltered by dramatic cliffs and calm Atlantic waters. Praia da Rainha, Praia da Conceicao and Guincho Beach each offer their own distinctive character, whether you're seeking peaceful relaxation, family-friendly swimming or world-class surfing conditions.
Beyond the beaches, Cascais boasts its own distinctive character with its attractive historic centre filled with cobbled streets, boutique shops, seafood restaurants and attractive marina views. Visitors can explore impressive museums, beautiful gardens and the dramatic Boca do Inferno sea cliffs before enjoying freshly prepared Portuguese cuisine overlooking the ocean.
Its proximity to Lisbon makes Cascais especially appealing for travellers wanting to combine an exciting capital city break with a luxurious beach escape. Within less than an hour, visitors can move from Lisbon's historic districts and vibrant nightlife to the tranquil elegance of Portugal's stunning Atlantic coastline.
5. Cefalu - Italy
Completing our list is the enchanting Sicilian city of Cefalu, one of Italy's hidden coastal treasures. Smaller than the other destinations featured here, Cefalu offers an authentic blend of history, culture and idyllic beaches that perfectly captures the charm of southern Italy.
Its expansive sandy beach sits directly alongside the historic town, allowing visitors to move seamlessly between crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and centuries of fascinating history. Unlike many larger resorts, Cefalu retains an intimate atmosphere where visitors can experience genuine Sicilian hospitality.
The town's magnificent Norman cathedral dominates the skyline and has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, while narrow medieval streets reveal family-run restaurants, artisan boutiques and welcoming piazzas full of local character. The climb to La Rocca rewards visitors with panoramic views stretching across both the historic town and the beautiful Sicilian coastline.
Food also plays an important role in any Cefalu holiday. Fresh seafood, handmade pasta, locally produced wines and authentic Sicilian desserts ensure every meal becomes a memorable part of the overall holiday package. Combined with luxurious boutique hotels and breathtaking coastal scenery, Cefalu represents one of Europe's most underrated beach cities.
Create Your Perfect Beach & City Escape with Elegant Resorts
The very best beach cities prove that travellers no longer need to choose between relaxing by the sea and immersing themselves in world-class culture. Whether you're admiring Gaudí's masterpieces in Barcelona, enjoying luxury beachfront living in Dubai or embracing Riviera elegance in Nice, each destination offers an exceptional combination of beach and city break experiences.
At Elegant Resorts, our Luxury Travel Specialists use their first hand destination knowledge to create completely tailor made beach & city break packages designed entirely around your individual travel aspirations. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic Mediterranean escape, a luxurious family beach break or a bespoke multi-centre itinerary featuring several of the world's best beach cities, we'll take care of every detail to ensure your beach & city break is every bit as unique as you are.
Get in touch with our Luxury Travel Specialists today and let us create your own tailor-made beach and city break to the destination you've always dreamed of visiting.