European city with 'charming streets' and 20C weather in spring named among best breaks

City breaks are starting to take centre stage ahead of high season and beach holidays — not just for their cultural appeal, but for their ease and affordability. With fewer crowds and more temperate weather, a spring getaway can help refresh the mind and top up a tan, while providing a change of scenery without the masses.

New research by a company offering cruise deals has revealed the best city break destinations for spring 2025, based on key factors including weather, rainfall, and traveller interest. While sun-drenched Marrakesh and vibrant Seville lead the pack, there’s a small European capital quietly stealing the spotlight with its stunning beaches, warm hospitality and cultural and historical highlights.

Valletta, Malta’s sun-soaked capital, has been named the third best city break for this spring thanks to its average daytime temperatures of 20C, very little rainfall and calendar full of cultural events.

Commenting on the research, Planet Cruise said: "With the Malta Springtime Festival in full swing, Valletta’s sunny climate and charming streets attract thousands of visitors in the spring."

Strategically located between historic harbours and golden stone bastions, Valletta is walkable and ideal for a quick two or three-day visit.

The old town is compact enough to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening into imposing, sunlit squares and ornate balconies.

Among Valletta’s standout highlights is St John’s Co-Cathedral, whose plain exterior hides an astonishingly rich interior, complete with Caravaggio’s Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.

Art and history lovers will also enjoy the Grandmaster’s Palace, once home to the Knights of St John, and now housing the Office of the President and an elegant armoury museum.

For those looking to soak in the views, Upper Barrakka Gardens has incredible panoramic sights across the Grand Harbour — a popular spot at sunset when the stone glows orange and the harbour lights start to appear in the horizon.

Just below, the Lascaris War Rooms is the perfect place to get immersed in the island’s history, with an immersive look at Malta’s role in WWII through underground tunnels and command centres.

Valletta’s contemporary side shines through during the Springtime Festival, held annually in April, when the city bursts into colour with floral displays, live music and open-air performances.

The culinary scene is another hidden treasure, with dishes ranging from fresh seafood to traditional pastizzi, with many restaurants located in historic townhouses or along the water’s edge.

Flights depart several UK airports to Valletta, for as little as £32 direct. Airports flying to Valletta include Glasgow, Gatwick, Luton, Stanstead, Manchester and Birmingham.