While sun-drenched Marrakesh and vibrant Seville top the list, there’s a small European capital quietly stealing the spotlight with its stunning beaches, warm hospitality and cultural and historical highlights.
City breaks are becoming the go-to choice over beach holidays for their cultural charm and wallet-friendly appeal.
As high season approaches, these urban escapes offer a chance to soak up some culture and enjoy milder weather without the usual tourist throngs.
A cruise deal company’s latest study has pinpointed the top city break spots for spring 2025, taking into account factors like climate, precipitation, and popularity among travellers.
Marrakesh and Seville are topping the list with their sunny allure, but a lesser-known European gem is making waves with its pristine beaches, warm welcomes, and rich cultural tapestry.
Valletta, the radiant capital of Malta, has clinched the third spot as an ideal spring city break destination, boasting average daytime temperatures of 20C, minimal rainfall, and a bustling cultural calendar.
Planet Cruise weighed in on the findings, stating: “With the Malta Springtime Festival in full swing, Valletta’s sunny climate and charming streets attract thousands of visitors in the spring.”
Perfectly nestled between historic harbours and majestic stone fortifications, Valletta offers a walkable cityscape perfect for a brief two or three-day jaunt, reports the Express.
The city’s historic quarter is easily navigable by foot, revealing a maze of slender lanes that lead to grand, sun-drenched plazas and intricately decorated balconies.
Among the must-see attractions in Valletta is St John’s Co-Cathedral, a seemingly unassuming structure that houses an incredibly ornate interior, including Caravaggio’s Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.
Art and history enthusiasts will also appreciate the Grandmaster’s Palace, formerly the residence of the Knights of St John, which now serves as the Office of the President and hosts a sophisticated armoury museum.
For those who enjoy breathtaking views, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer stunning panoramic vistas across the Grand Harbour – a favourite spot at sunset when the stone takes on an orange hue and the harbour lights begin to twinkle in the distance.
Located just below, the Lascaris War Rooms provide a fascinating insight into Malta’s WWII history, featuring underground tunnels and command centres.
Valletta’s modern side comes alive during the Springtime Festival, an annual event held in April, where the city is adorned with vibrant floral displays, live music and outdoor performances.
The city’s culinary scene is another hidden gem, offering a range of dishes from fresh seafood to traditional pastizzi, served in historic townhouses or waterfront restaurants.
Several UK airports offer flights to Valletta, with fares starting from as low as £32 for a direct flight.
Airports providing services to Valletta include Glasgow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, Manchester and Birmingham.