From ancient streets to art deco beats: The beachy city breaks that also come with a serious dose of culture

Why choose between a city break and beach escape when you can have both? The best holidays are filled with variety and these two destinations offer a little of everything, from coastal charm to rich history.

Spend your mornings wandering the honey-stone streets of the Maltese capital Valletta, then find a hidden cove for the afternoon, or mix Art Deco delights in Miami with sugar-sand beaches. They both offer the perfect blend of culture and relaxation for a winter sun break.

British Airways Holidays carefully selected the best hotels in these idyllic locations. A generous checked baggage allowance is included in the price, as is ATOL protection from the moment you book, providing financial reassurance and the peace of mind you expect from British Airways Holidays.

Your holiday can be secured with a low deposit, allowing you to spread the cost with flexible payments.* You’ll have access to a dedicated 24/7 support helpline during your trip should you need it. Members of The British Airways Club benefit from collecting Avios, earning tier points and using Avios towards the cost of holiday packages.

Looking to add a little extra luxury? Why not upgrade your experience to Club Europe or Club World (Business Class), unlocking a host of benefits including lounge access,** increased checked baggage allowance, priority check-in and boarding and a spacious seat that converts to a fully flat bed.

Hiring a car? Take comfort from 24-hour support and roadside assistance, not to mention the guarantee of no hidden fees.

Try this pick of fantastic resorts for a city getaway with a splash of beach bliss…

Baroque beauty and stunning beaches in Malta

Set right at the heart of the Mediterannean, Malta has long been at the crossroads of civilisations and you can trace them all through its historic towns and rich cuisine.

Combine culture and beach vibes at The Westin Dragonara Resort, located on the fringe of the lively beach town of St Julian’s. 

You can choose from a large selection of accommodations, including the largest standard hotel rooms on the island. It means you can comfortably stay with up to four guests, with children up to 12 years old staying free.

Situated on a secluded peninsula, The Westin Dragonara Resort boasts glorious sea views

Feeling extravagant? Book a Luxury Bay Suite Sea View with ocean views as far as the eye can see.

You’re just a short drive away from the UNESCO-listed capital, Valletta, built in the Baroque style by the Knights of St John, and the ancient city of Mdina, steeped in Arabic history. 

Back at your sun-drenched sanctuary, spend your days relaxing by the two outdoor pools, indoor pool, or beach lidos. Memorable dining experiences are assured with a choice of fantastic venues, from the elegant buffet restaurant The Terrace and Palio’s Trattoria to fine dining eatery Quadro.

Another gem in St. Julian’s, the Malta Marriott Resort & Spa is fresh from a multi-million-pound renovation. Set beside the serene seafront promenade of Balluta Beach, this retreat combines Mediterranean charm with contemporary design, with a focus on luxury living.

The Malta Marriott Resort & Spa is newly renovated and just a short stroll to Balluta Bay

Enjoy sweeping sea views from the heated rooftop pool, relax in the spacious indoor pool or enjoy pampering at The Myoka Lotus Spa, which offers a sauna, hammam and personalized beauty treatments. 

The Cala Lido provides the ideal space to relax and unwind, with an expansive pool, a separate splash pool, and the Cala Bar and Restaurant set within its lush gardens. For cocktails, head towards The Sundeck Pool and Bar, while a selection of four restaurants, including The Marketplace for relaxed buffet dining, offer gourmet delights to please the whole family.

When you’re not out exploring the history of the island with your optional quality car hire, children will delight in a range of activities, from treasure hunts to interactive cooking classes. And grown-ups can escape to the exclusive M Club, a haven offering all-day dining and bay views.

Glitz and glamour in dynamic Miami

A dizzying blend of buzzing beaches, non-stop energy and Art Deco allure, Miami has everything you could want from both a city or beach break.

From the ever-popular South Beach to the refined culture of Downtown Miami, these Kimpton hotels are set in the city’s most sought-after spots, providing a perfect base for exploring the best that the city has to offer.

For boutique style and Downtown Miami views, you have the ever-sleek Kimpton EPIC Hotel. 

Choose from 411 guest rooms and suites, all designed with a minimalist, organic style and featuring private balconies offering sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.

An elegant boutique hotel, Kimpton EPIC Hotel has high end design and sweeping views

Spend your sun-splashed days living it up in the glittering 16th-floor open-air pool, or take a little ‘me time’ at the wonderful Privai Spa. As the sun sets on the city, savour Japanese delicacies at world-renowned ZUMA or electric local dishes at Area 31.

Fancy something a little closer to the beach action? Kimpton Surfcomber is set beside the golden sands of South Beach, the epicentre for vibrant nightlife, retail bliss, world-class art galleries and cafe culture.

Perfectly situated for nightlife, Kimpton Surfcomber lies on the golden sands of South Beach 

Rise in style with sunrise yoga on South Beach, then relax in your personal poolside cabana. Take to the water with kayaks and paddleboards, then enjoy free bike rental and explore the boardwalk on two wheels, taking in South Beach’s most iconic spots, from Ocean Drive to Lincoln Road.

Just two blocks from Ocean Drive, you’ll find Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach, an Art Deco gem set within tranquil private gardens. 

The ultra-spacious rooms evoke a sense of calm, with neutral tones, natural wood finishes, woven wicker textures and huge windows that invite floods of daylight.

At the heart of the Art Deco action, Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach is a glorious oasis

Looking for an extra dose of luxury? Opt for a spa villa or poolside bungalow with a private terrace. Cool off in the hotel’s main level pool, which has a tropical resort vibe with swaying palms and lush vegetation, and don’t miss a dip in the rooftop pool, one of South Beach’s finest.

British Airways Holidays packages include a generous checked baggage allowance for each customer and come with full ATOL protection for complete peace of mind.

Secure your next holiday to The Westin Malta, The Marriott Malta, Kimpton EPIC, Kimpton Surfcomber or Kimpton Angler’s with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly*.

*Based on two sharing. Full balance due four weeks for short haul and seven weeks for long haul before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply.

**Subject to availability.