BARCELONA is cheap to get to because it's served by three airports, Barcelona (El Prat), Girona and Reus, so there's lots of competition on routes from the UK. It's got good beaches, loads of culture and history, fantastic restaurants (serving superb Catalan paella), great shopping, loads of bars (both lively and restful). It's well worth considering.
http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/
LIGURIA is often overlooked by British tourists. Access is simple and cheap by taking a flight to Genoa, then the really cheap bus which goes direct to Genoa station and boarding one of the frequent and cheap trains that run right along the coast. Somewhere like RAPALLO might meet your requirements. It's got a small but pleasant beach, with seafront restaurants commanding great views as you eat some lovely food while looking out to sea. The rail line makes it easy to explore the area but there are also boats which link Rapallo with the billionaire's resort of Portofino and delightful little towns like Santa Margherita. You'll find quiet bars, fine food, lovely local markets and plenty to see and do. (Genoa itself is often thought of as an industrial city but the Old Town is a delight to wander around).
http://goitaly.about....rapallo/a/rapallo.htm
Chris