City breaks are great for immersing yourself in other cultures and getting as many impressions of a foreign country as possible. These trips become even more perfect when the places are right on the ocean lie. Because often you feel like - especially in the summer - after a day full of sightseeing to take a few moments of rest and catch the pleasant sea breeze. What else coastal cities bring with them are romantic alleys, idyllic old towns and enchanting pubs.

Here is a selection of five of the most beautiful coastal cities in Europe.

St. Ives, England

It's not just the Mediterranean that has beautiful seaside towns to offer; England also has many coastal towns that are well worth a visit. Like the charming fishing village of St. Ives, which is located in the county of Cornwall. The town is especially popular with artists and writers who find inspiration in its charming flair. Numerous beaches, a picturesque old town and a breathtakingly beautiful harbour promenade surround the small village. St. Ives also invites you to take a swim, but only for the hardy, as the water temperature rises to a maximum of 20 degrees. Art lovers can browse in the numerous galleries and exhibitions.

Polignano a Mare, Italy

Italy is known for countless towns and villages that are located on the beautiful Riviera. Besides the most famous ones, such as Positano, Amalfi or Salerno, there is another place that should not be missing from this list: Polignano a Mare. This town in Puglia stands out only for its spectacular position on a cliff, hiding numerous grottos that can provide many an adventure. But also the cliffs at a height of about 24 metres, where the world's best cliff divers let off steam, are a spectacle in themselves. Otherwise, the mystical grottoes that run through the place impress and can also be visited.

Le Mont Saint Michel, France

Coastal resorts in France are not automatically located on the Côte d'Azur. Normandy, which is located in the north of the country, also has many dreamy places to offer. Like the fairytale-like Le Mont Saint Michel, which towers over the mud flats. The main attraction there is undoubtedly the impressive Mont Saint Michel Abbey, which sits atop a small hill. The history of this spectacular building dates back to the 8th century, when the sacred building was commissioned. Today, the monastery is still very well preserved and attracts countless visitors every year. In the meantime, it has even been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the castle walls you have a fantastic view of the sea and the tides. Speaking of tides: the Bay of Mont Saint Michel has the strongest tides in Europe. At low tide, the sea recedes up to 15 kilometres from the coast; at high tide, the monastery is on an island. Nevertheless, you can visit the attraction all day long due to bridges.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a small world of its own on the coast of Spain. The British overseas territory is located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, but belongs to the United Kingdom. The famous limestone rock, on which numerous monkeys live, is the main attraction of Gibraltar. However, the Strait of Gibraltar, where Europe and Africa are closest, is also impressive. Morocco, for example, is only 15 kilometres away. Also worth knowing: many tourists and Spaniards come to Gibraltar specially only for shopping, as in the crown colony the value added tax is dropped and thus some things are offered cheaper. Also special is the fact that both the Spanish and the British culture meet there and in restaurants a variation of tapas and fish and chips is served.

Lisbon, Portugal

If you want to visit cities on the European coast, you should definitely make a stop in Portugal. Because Lisbon is probably one of the most beautiful destinations. The capital is situated on a series of hills and offers a fantastic panoramic view from almost every point. The majestic river Tejo meanders through the city until it flows into the Atlantic. The city's image is rounded off by winding alleyways, medieval buildings, markets and idyllic parks. And the famous Yellow Trams are also among the main attractions.

Picture Credits: Luisa Denu / Unsplash, Vincenzo De Simone / Unsplash, Lutz 6078 / Pixabay, Next Voyage / Pixabay, Jac Lou DL / Pixabay, Roman Grac / Pixabay