Grab some instant sunshine with short breaks in the Costa del Sol

Grab some instant sunshine with short breaks in the Costa del Sol

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Live the Spanish dream on a short getaway in the Costa del Sol

Fancy a quick city break abroad? Hop on a flight and head for the Costa del Sol! The sunkissed south of Spain is always a good choice for a holiday, and if you only have a long weekend or half a week, it's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and get some much-needed Vitamin D. Your next minibreak starts here, as you find the best holiday accommodation for great little breaks in the Costa del Sol.

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Planning short getaways in the Costa del Sol

Why should I go for a short holiday in the Costa del Sol?

The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain. This region in the south of the country boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, so a short break in the Costa del Sol is always a good idea if you're tired of cold, grey days. There's something for everyone in the Costa del Sol. Fancy a city break? Head to Málaga city and explore the Picasso museum and the hilltop Alcazaba castle. Want something quieter? Visit the famous white villages like Frigiliana and Ronda. In the mood for activity? Tackle the death-defying Caminito del Rey, one of Spain's most challenging hikes. Of course, you could also spend your minibreak in the Costa del Sol chilling on the beach - the choice is yours!

Where should I stay for a short city break in the Costa del Sol?

Although the Costa del Sol is only about 150 kilometres long, it offers a huge amount of variety. Travellers looking for a city break in the Costa del Sol can stay in villas in Málaga (Este). Málaga, Andalucía's second largest city, has vibrant nightlife, fascinating museums, and great restaurants. Alternatively, consider villas in Marbella. This stylish city is a hotspot for Spain's rich and famous; its marina is full of fabulous yachts, and it has world-class luxury shopping. Choose a villa in Benalmádena if you're travelling with the kids. A fun, lively resort, it gives you easy access to theme parks, water parks, and other family-friendly attractions. Finally, if you're looking for nature, try a villa in Nerja. Sea caves, dramatic clifftop walks, and long stretches of beach make this one of the best parts of the Costa del Sol to lose yourself in natural surroundings.

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FAQs: Short breaks in Costa del Sol

When's the best time to go for a short break in the Costa del Sol?

As a popular sun destination, the Costa del Sol is at its busiest in July and August. During these summer months, holiday lettings in the Costa del Sol sell out fast, and prices are often higher than usual. Save money and beat the crowds by visiting in the off-season. The weather is great all year round - even in December, you can expect daily highs of a balmy 18°C in Málaga - and the sea is swimmable from mid-June until mid-October.

How can I travel to the Costa del Sol?

The Costa del Sol is served by Málaga Airport, which has the code AGP. This is one of Spain's busiest airports, and is well-served by flights from the UK. British airports with direct flights to Málaga include Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Belfast, Bristol, and more. On arrival, a number of different bus routes can take you from the airport to your villa in Marbella centre, Málaga city, and other popular towns.

How can I get around the Costa del Sol without hiring a car?

On a short break, you don't want the fuss of hiring a car - which means you'll need to rely on public transport. The Cercanías Renfe C1 line runs up and down the coast, connecting Málaga city with towns like Fuengirola, Benalmádena, and Torremolinos. Towns which are not on the train line have bus connections. Check timetables carefully, as buses are often quite sporadic.

What special annual events should I try to attend on the Costa del Sol?

There are a number of great events each year in the Costa del Sol. One of the best is the Feria de Málaga, or Málaga fair, which takes place in August. You can expect a lively atmosphere with a funfair, daily events, and outdoor parties. Many locals dress up in spectacular traditional flamenco outfits to dance the night away. Another popular event is San Juan in late June, which is celebrated with fireworks over the beach and massive barbecues.

What local food should I try on a short getaway to the Costa del Sol?

The south of Spain is known for its excellent fresh produce. A cold, refreshing glass of gazpacho is always welcome on a hot day - or for something more substantial, you can try salmorejo, another cold tomato soup, but much thicker, garnished with boiled egg and sliced ham. As the Costa del Sol has such a long coastline, seafood is always on the menu. Local delicacies include espetos de sardinas - barbecued skewers of sardines - and boquerones, tasty tiny anchovies which are either grilled or served cold with vinegar.