Malaga

It might be the gateway to the Costa del Sol, but short breaks to Málaga are often overlooked by sun-seekers blinded by the sand of nearby resorts. The city, you see, is a little way up-coast from its airport, and the busy beach spots of Torremolinos, Benalmádena Costa, Fuengirola and Marbella are all in the other direction.

But a city break to Málaga is well worth the detour. Rich in history, atmosphere and Spanish culture, this charming port city makes a great adjunct to your date with a deckchair, or the perfect starting point for an exploration of the scenery, festivals and cuisine of the Andalucían region.

Short breaks to Málaga are a breeze and the city's sights are, with one notable exception, a doddle to take in on foot. Garden-lined Paseo del Parque (which becomes Alameda Principal) is the main thoroughfare, cutting a course between the port and the old quarter. Minutes from its jasmine-scented expanse is the 16th-century 'La Manquita' cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, adjoined by the ornate Iglesia del Sagrano.

Nearby, the imposing Moorish fortress of Alcazaba, dating back to the 8th century, is a must-see - as is the 14th-century Castilla de Gibralfara, resplendent on a hilltop overlooking the city, and best reached by bus. An excellent newcomer to the scene is the recently opened Museo Picasso, which exhibits 12 grand halls of artwork by the town's most famous son, giving city breaks to Málaga a distinctly cultured feel.

Málaga is also a fine place in which to kick back, relax and soak up some local flavour, whether you're after a quiet tavern serving local wines, traditional tapas bars, live flamenco venues or throbbing discos. Just bear in mind that this is Spain - so don't try to head out on the tiles until at least 11pm, and don't plan on being home before dawn, because short breaks to Málaga really do last that bit longer.