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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries . With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard to decide which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote for your favorite destinations below to influence next year's ranking.

Costa Brava

San sebastian, santiago de compostela, canary islands, costa del sol.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations, Barcelona is one of Spain's cultural capitals. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, including Barceloneta Beach.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a getaway.

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through colorful plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway northeast of Ibiza features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After getting your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations .

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste-testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak made from aged grass-fed beef.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes featuring stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or the Way of Saint James), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, get a taste of local life by strolling the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits about 50 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Artxanda Funicular for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Costa del Sol is easily one of southern Spain's top places to enjoy a beach vacation. Travelers consistently laud the region for its natural beauty. Not only do visitors have a variety of beaches to choose from – such as Burriana Beach and El Bajondillo Beach – but they can also enjoy countless outdoor pursuits thanks to Costa del Sol's proximity to Sierra de las Nieves National Park and the Guadalmina River. Plus, they'll find plenty of kid-friendly attractions, including a theme park, a zoo, water parks and a butterfly park.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars after exploring Rioja's surrounding mountains on a hike or hot air balloon tour.

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party scene. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's walled old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the oldest bullring in Spain, and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved Arab baths that date back to the 13th century.

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71 Best Places To Visit In Spain For 2024

When you think of Spain, what comes to mind? Maybe it's sunny beaches, tasty food, or vibrant festivals. Spain is all of this and much more.

This guide will introduce you to the best places to visit in Spain, making it easier for you to plan a memorable trip.

Spain is a treasure trove of beautiful spots. It boasts a mix of cultural heritage, modern architecture, and nature's beauty.

From the hustle and bustle of big cities to the calm and serene countryside, there's a place for every type of traveller.

Beaches? Spain has plenty. The Mediterranean Sea kisses the country's shores, offering some of the most beautiful beaches you'll ever see.

Whether you like sunbathing or playing in the waves, there's a beach just for you.

If you're more into history and culture, Spain's cities and towns have a lot to offer. From ancient buildings to modern wonders, there's always something to explore. The country's unique places reflect its rich past and promising future.

But that's not all. Spain is also home to some fantastic national parks .

These green havens are perfect for those who love the outdoors. Hike, bike, or simply take in the views; these parks will leave you refreshed.

And, let's not forget the Spanish islands. These jewels in the sea offer a different vibe from the mainland. From vibrant nightlife to serene beaches, they're worth a visit.

In short, Spain is filled with incredible places waiting to be explored.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more, the best places in Spain to visit promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Dive in and discover what makes Spain a top travel destination .

1. Barcelona

Barcelona , the capital of Catalonia, is a blend of historic charm and modern dynamism.

It's a city where the past and the present coalesce beautifully.

One of the best places to visit in Spain is the iconic La Sagrada Familia , showcasing Gaudi's unparalleled architectural prowess, while the bustling La Rambla street invites visitors to experience the city's lively spirit.

As you navigate this historic city, structures like Casa Batllo further illustrate the deep roots of modernist architecture.

Barcelona isn't just a city; it's an artistic masterpiece, where every corner has a story, every building is a canvas, and every experience is uniquely Catalonian.

It’s no wonder that this vibrant metropolis ranks among the world's most visited destinations.

Madrid , the capital of Spain, is a captivating blend of history and modernity.

The city's heart, Puerta del Sol, pulses with energy, serving as a starting point for many explorations.

A stroll away is Plaza Mayor, a grand square enveloped by historic buildings, often buzzing with activity.

Art enthusiasts are spoilt for choice between the Prado Museum , housing an exquisite collection of European art, and the Reina Sofia Museum , showcasing contemporary masterpieces.

Amidst the urban landscape, El Retiro Park provides a verdant escape, perfect for leisurely afternoons.

The Royal Palace stands as a testament to Madrid's regal past, offering insights into its opulent history.

Lastly, for a taste of Madrid's vibrant nightlife and tapas culture, the La Latina neighbourhood is a must-visit.

Seville, the capital of Andalusia , is a gem in southern Spain's crown.

A city steeped in history, it harmoniously blends its Moorish past with the vibrancy of contemporary Spanish culture.

The Seville Cathedral stands tall in the city's heart, not only as a symbol of faith but also as an architectural marvel.

Recognised as the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, its intricate facades and majestic interiors captivate visitors from all corners.

As you wander through the city, the spirit of Andalusia unfolds in its bustling streets, flamenco rhythms , and fragrant orange blossoms.

Being the capital, Seville effortlessly showcases the region's traditions, gastronomy, and arts.

Its rich heritage, combined with its lively atmosphere, makes Seville a compelling destination for those eager to experience the essence of southern Spain.

4. Basque Country

The Basque Country , located in northern Spain, is an enthralling blend of natural beauty, distinct culture, and a deep-rooted history.

Among its most beautiful places is the coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the turbulent Atlantic, creating a dramatic scenery that remains etched in the memory of every traveller.

But it's not just the landscape that captures the heart. Delve deeper into its towns and you'll discover the medieval architecture of places like Hondarribia, a picturesque town with colourful fishermen's houses, and a historic fortress.

The Basque Country is not just a destination; it's an experience. From its unique language and gastronomic delights to the pride of its people, it promises a journey like no other in Spain.

5. La Rioja

La Rioja , Spain's wine heartland, offers visitors more than just a glass of its famed red.

This region boasts lush vineyards that stretch beyond the horizon, punctuated by ancient medieval towns, it is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places to visit in Spain.

Wander through the vibrant streets of its capital, Logrono, and enjoy amazing tapas and wine pairings that epitomise Spanish cuisine.

Explore monasteries and fortresses that echo tales from centuries past.

La Rioja's cultural heritage blends seamlessly with its natural beauty, from the majestic Sierra de Cebollera mountains to the serene Ebro River.

6. Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands , a sparkling gem in the Mediterranean, are a must-visit when in Spain.

These islands promise an unparalleled experience of sun, sea, and culture.

The beautiful sandy beaches stretch invitingly, providing a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.

Each island, from bustling Majorca to tranquil Menorca , has its own unique charm.

Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, dancing the night away in Ibiza, or simply soaking up the sun on pristine shores, the Balearic Islands cater to all holidaymakers looking for a magical island experience.

7. Canary Islands

The Canary Islands , located off the northwest coast of Africa, are a Spanish archipelago offering an enticing blend of diverse landscapes and cultures.

These volcanic islands boast a myriad of natural wonders, from the lush forests of La Gomera to the dramatic lava fields of Lanzarote .

With year-round sunshine, golden beaches, and unique terrains, each island offers a distinctive holiday experience.

Tenerife's Teide National Park showcases Spain's highest peak, while Gran Canaria offers a mix of vibrant nightlife and serene dunes.

With rich histories, delectable cuisine, and countless recreational activities, the Canary Islands are a captivating Spanish getaway.

Galicia, tucked away in Spain's northwest corner, is a region of profound beauty and rich traditions.

Its rugged coastline is dotted with serene estuaries, while the inland boasts mystical forests and historic towns.

Santiago de Compostela , a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts pilgrims worldwide with its stunning cathedral.

The region's unique Celtic heritage, combined with its mouth-watering seafood, especially the famous Pulpo a la Gallega (octopus), sets Galicia's gastronomy apart.

Galicia offers an immersive experience, from the allure of the Rías Baixas beaches to the resonance of bagpipes, revealing a side of Spain that is often overlooked by visitors to Spain.

Girona , a captivating city in Catalonia, is a blend of rich history and modern allure.

The city's medieval architecture, evident in its well-preserved Jewish Quarter and imposing city walls make the city a special place to explore.

The awe-inspiring Girona Cathedral stands as a testament to various architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic.

You will just love strolling along the colourful houses lining the Onyar River.

As the backdrop for some scenes in "Game of Thrones," Girona has gained a lot of attention in the past 10 years.

Beyond its historical appeal, Girona also offers vibrant festivals, a burgeoning culinary scene, and proximity to Costa Brava's stunning beaches .

10. Majorca

Majorca, the crown jewel of Spain's Balearic Islands, welcomes millions of holidaymakers each year to its sun-drenched beaches and clear warm waters making it one of the most popular places to visit in Spain.

Beyond its coastal appeal, Majorca boasts a diverse landscape of imposing mountain ranges, quaint hilltop villages , and sprawling vineyards.

The island's rich history is palpable in its Gothic cathedrals, ancient ruins, and the labyrinthine streets of Palma, its vibrant capital.

Whether you're exploring the captivating Drach Caves, indulging in delectable Mediterranean cuisine, or soaking in the sun on beautiful sandy beaches, Majorca´s blend of relaxation and adventure, makes it an unmissable Spanish destination.

Ibiza , often dubbed the "White Isle" of Spain, is not just the world's party capital but also a UNESCO-listed treasure.

This Balearic gem offers crystal-clear waters, idyllic beaches, and a vibrant nightlife that attracts global music enthusiasts.

Beyond its iconic clubs, Ibiza boasts a rich cultural heritage, serene countryside, and traditional whitewashed villages.

Whether seeking spiritual sunrises at Es Vedra or the historic charm of Dalt Vila, Ibiza's unique blend of hedonism and tranquillity is infectious and keeps people coming back year after year.

12. Tenerife

Tenerife, the crown jewel of Spain's Canary Islands , beckons travellers in their drives to its diverse landscapes and year-round sunshine.

The island boasts the majestic Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, surrounded by a stunning national park.

Its coastline features golden and volcanic black sandy beaches alongside dramatic cliffs.

From the vibrant carnival of Santa Cruz to the mysterious Pyramids of Guimar , Tenerife seamlessly combines natural wonders with cultural festivities.

Its unique flora, outdoor activities, and pleasant climate make Tenerife a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

13. Granada

Granada, nestled at the foothills of Spain's Sierra Nevada Mountains, is an enchanting city steeped in history and culture.

It's home to the breathtaking Alhambra Palace , a Moorish compound that showcases intricate Islamic architecture and lush gardens.

Wander the narrow alleyways of the Albayzin neighbourhood, an ancient Moorish quarter, for an authentic Andalusian experience.

Beyond its rich past, Granada offers vibrant tapas scenes, captivating Flamenco performances, and views of snow-capped peaks.

A seamless blend of Moorish past and modern Spanish charm makes Granada a must-visit Spanish gem.

14. Valencia

Valencia , Spain's sun-kissed east coast gem, seamlessly merges the historic with the contemporary.

The city boasts La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias ( City of Arts & Sciences ) an avant-garde complex of futuristic buildings, contrasting sharply with its medieval heart, full of winding lanes and historic markets.

Valencia's cathedral claims to house the Holy Grail, and its streets come alive during the fiery Las Fallas festival.

Moreover, this city birthed paella, offering visitors an authentic taste of this famed dish.

Framed by gorgeous beaches along the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia is a harmonious blend of Spanish history, culture, and modern vibrancy that makes it one of the most exciting places to visit in Spain.

Malaga is where the sun takes its annual holiday!

This lively port city isn't just Picasso's birthplace, but it's also where sangria pours like water and flamenco dancers are just a "clap-clap-ole!" away.

Wander around ancient Roman theatres, only to stumble upon a hip tapas joint next door.

Malaga's beaches are for siestas, while its old town screams "fiesta!" And, don't even get us started on the Alcazaba fortress views; they're Instagram-gold.

So, if you fancy history with a side of beach lounging and perhaps a pinch of Picasso, Malaga’s should be your next sun-soaked destination.

16. San Sebastian

San Sebastian , often dubbed the "culinary capital of Spain," offers more than just an opportunity to expand your waistline with delightful pintxos.

Here, La Concha Beach promises a sun-kissed glow, while the Belle Epoque waterfront might just inspire a posh strut in your best holiday gear.

And, if you're up for it, the International Film Festival can make you feel a smidge more cinematic.

To sum it up, San Sebastian is where the food is as stunning as the views and one of the best destinations you will find in Northern Spain.

17. Castilla La Mancha

Castilla La Mancha is where windmills aren't just for show, but where they once taunted the delusions of Don Quixote.

This region boasts landscapes that you dream about.

It's not all about tilting at windmills, though. Discover the medieval streets of Toledo , a city that's like a living museum.

And for lovers of the local vino, this region's vineyards provide a taste of wine with a splash of past.

Forget fast and furious, in Castilla La Mancha, it's about the slow and the scenic, with maybe a hint of literary madness.

Bilbao  is where modernity hugs tradition in the warmest of embraces.

Futuristic designs like the Guggenheim Museum stand tall next to age-old cathedrals and charming Old Town streets.

And oh, the food! Step into any pintxos bar, and you're not just biting into a snack, but a love letter to Basque gastronomy.

Wander along the Nervion River, and let Bilbao's rhythm guide your footsteps.

From its vibrant art scenes to its buzzing local markets, this city has an infectious spirit that’s bound to capture your heart.

So, grab your comfiest shoes and let Bilbao show you what true Spanish warmth and hospitality feel like!

19. Gran Canaria

Oh, Gran Canaria ! Where to begin? Imagine an island where sandy beaches are as welcoming as the smiles of its locals.

Dive into a world where desert-like dunes meet lush forests, creating a nature lover's paradise.

Whether you're basking in Maspalomas or hiking in Tamadaba, there's a postcard moment waiting for you.

And the food? A delightful dance of flavours with every bite!

From the freshest seafood to delightful tapas, there’s a taste for every palate.

The blend of cultures and landscapes on this splendid Spanish island ensures there’s always a new adventure around the corner.

Gran Canaria isn’t just a destination; it’s a sun-kissed embrace you won’t forget.

20. Pamplona

Pamplona , is known for its thrilling San Fermin festival, where brave souls run with bulls through cobbled streets.

But, there's more to this charming city than just adrenaline-packed moments.

Wander around its historic old town, sip on delightful local wines, and even better.

The city's medieval walls whisper tales of ancient times, while the modern cafes and boutiques paint a vibrant picture of contemporary life.

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Navarre region, Pamplona seamlessly blends tradition with the modern, ensuring every visitor leaves with a heart full of memories.

Cadiz is a gem on Spain's sun-kissed southern coast that's been turning heads for millennia.

Imagine dipping your toes into golden sands as ancient watchtowers stand guard, recounting tales of Phoenicians, Romans, and pirates.

The city's old town is a maze of narrow alleys, opening up to lively plazas where local families get together to play and flamenco rhythms fill the air.

Indulge in fresh seafood tapas, caught just hours before, while watching the sun melt into the Atlantic.

Beyond its history, Cadiz radiates youthful energy with vibrant festivals and spirited locals.

Whether you're chasing sunsets on the beach, relishing centuries-old architecture, or diving into Andalusian culture, Cadiz is always a good option to visit when in southern Spain.

22. Marbella

Marbella, a sparkling jewel on Spain's Costa del Sol, effortlessly combines Mediterranean charm with cosmopolitan appeal.

Nestled between the sea and the majestic Sierra Blanca mountains, this city is renowned for its luxurious resorts, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

Stroll the meandering streets of the Old Town, where historic whitewashed buildings adorned with bougainvillaea set the backdrop for quaint plazas and traditional tapas bars.

For sun-seekers, Marbella boasts miles of sandy beaches and a marina filled with sleek yachts.

Beyond its glitzy veneer, Marbella remains deeply connected to its Andalusian roots, with local festivals, musical events, and flamenco performances giving visitors a taste of authentic Spanish culture.

23. Benidorm

Benidorm, the high-rise playground on Spain's Costa Blanca!

Once a quiet fishing village, it has transformed into a pulsating holiday hotspot without losing its charm.

The city boasts a vibrant mix of sun-kissed beaches like Levante and Poniente, ideal for both thrill-seekers and sunbathers.

Venture into the Old Town, where the aroma of paella fills the air, and meandering alleyways offer glimpses into Benidorm's past. For those looking for entertainment, the city doesn't disappoint with its array of bars, cabaret shows, and nightclubs.

Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, palm-lined promenades and the serene Balcon del Mediterraneo provide peaceful respite.

In Benidorm , traditional Spain and modern fun coexist in harmony, promising an unforgettable experience.

24. Canary Islands

A shimmering archipelago off Africa's northwest coast, the Canary Islands are Spain’s very own treasure trove.

These islands dance to the rhythm of volcanic landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and a delightful climate year-round.

Each island, from the vibrant Tenerife and the golden dunes of Gran Canaria to the lunar terrains of Lanzarote, boasts its own unique charm.

Engage in water sports, explore the rich biodiversity, or simply relish the Canarian gastronomy.

With diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests in La Palma to Fuerteventura’s windsurfing havens, the Canaries cater for all tastes.

25. Castilla y Leon

Castilla y Leon , Spain's largest autonomous region, is a tapestry of historic cities, sweeping plains, and cultural richness.

Its UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the cities of Salamanca , Avila, and Segovia, each echoing tales of medieval battles, monarchs, and scholars.

The region is also home to some of Spain's most iconic castles, underscoring its nickname as the "Land of Castles."

Amidst its historical splendour, visitors can taste robust wines from Ribera del Duero and traditional dishes like "morcilla" (blood sausage).

With vast natural parks and the rugged Sierra de Gredos mountains, Castilla y Leon is well worth visiting at any time of the year.

26. Cordoba

Cordoba, once the illustrious capital of Al-Andalus during the Moorish reign, is a mesmerising fusion of history, culture, and beauty.

Here, you can walk through the fascinating streets and discover the famed Mezquita, an architectural marvel symbolising the city's rich Islamic past, coexisting harmoniously with its Christian influences.

As spring blooms, Cordoba's courtyards transform into floral spectacles, a tradition celebrated in the annual Festival of the Patios .

Dive deeper into the city's labyrinthine Jewish quarter, and let the scent of orange blossoms guide you.

As the sun sets, enjoy traditional Andalusian tapas at a local tavern.

Every corner of Cordoba whispers tales of civilisations gone by, making it a time-travelling experience for history aficionados and curious travellers alike.

27. Alicante

Alicante, located on Spain's Costa Blanca , offers holidaymakers a perfect blend of sandy beaches and cultural experiences.

Bask in the Mediterranean sun at Playa del Postiguet, a pristine beach located just a stone's throw away from the city.

Venture up to the Santa Barbara Castle , perched high above, for panoramic vistas of the coast and bustling marina.

The city's vibrant Explanada de Espana promenade, with its iconic wave-patterned tiles, teems with cafes, making it an ideal spot for people-watching or indulging in authentic Spanish tapas.

For a dive into history, the archaeological museum brilliantly narrates Alicante's rich past.

28. Catalonia

Catalonia , a northeastern region of Spain, is a captivating blend of beautiful coves and lovely beaches, rich history, and distinctive culture.

Start your journey in Barcelona, where the whimsical architecture of Gaudi, especially the iconic Sagrada Familia, leaves visitors in awe.

The region boasts the rugged Costa Brava , known for its pristine coves and vibrant seaside towns.

Catalonia's history is palpable in the medieval streets of Girona and the Roman ruins of Tarragona.

Don't miss the Pyrenees mountains, perfect for hiking and skiing.

Dive into the local spirit with traditional 'Sardana' dances and try out the mouth-watering Catalan cuisine, particularly the famed 'Crema Catalana.

With its unique identity, celebrated in festivals and traditions, Catalonia provides a diverse and enriching Spanish experience.

Cuenca, a gem in Spain's Castilla-La Mancha region, is a place where history, art, and nature harmoniously collide.

Perched high on a limestone cliff, the town's "hanging houses", or "Casas Colgadas", appear to dangle precariously over the deep gorge below - an awe-inspiring sight for any visitor.

Meander through Cuenca's ancient cobbled streets and you'll discover a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, filled with medieval charm.

The stunning Cuenca Cathedral stands as a testament to the town's rich architectural history.

For art lovers, the Abstract Art Museum offers a contemporary contrast to the ancient surroundings.

Nature enthusiasts will relish the nearby Enchanted City, a natural wonder with fascinating rock formations.

30. Lanzarote

Lanzarote , one of Spain's captivating Canary Islands, is a symphony of nature's best work.

Its lunar-like landscapes, a product of volcanic eruptions, will make you feel as if you've stepped onto another planet.

Timanfaya National Park showcases this raw, volcanic beauty, with its Martian terrains and geothermal demonstrations.

The island's unique vineyards, protected by stone semi-circles, produce delightful wines, best savoured after a day at beautiful beaches, like Playa Blanca or Papagayo.

Local architect Cesar Manrique left his eco-friendly mark here, blending art with nature at spots like Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Rio.

For a perfect day out,  head inland and explore the whitewashed villages dotting the landscape.

Jerez, the Andalusian gem, is a dance of rich traditions and sensual delights.

At its heart is the world-famous sherry, a wine so integral to the city's identity that they share a name.

Visit the traditional bodegas, such as Gonzalez Byass, to taste this delectable drink and learn its history.

But Jerez isn't just about the wine; it's also the cradle of Flamenco. The rhythmic clapping, soulful singing, and passionate dance moves can be experienced in its purest form here.

Equestrian lovers rejoice as the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art showcases mesmerising horse ballets.

The Alcazar, with its Moorish roots, stands as a testament to Jerez's rich history. For an intoxicating mix of culture, tradition, and flavour, Jerez beckons you in to captivate your senses.

32. Salamanca

Salamanca , often dubbed the "Golden City" of Spain, is an enchanting destination where history comes alive on every cobblestone street.

Home to one of the world's oldest universities, Salamanca is a hub of intellect, with its mesmerising sandstone architecture absorbing sunlight, and exuding a warm, golden glow at sunset.

The Plaza Mayor stands as perhaps the most stunning square in Spain, a lively gathering place both day and night.

Marvel at the intricate façade of the University of Salamanca, seeking out the hidden frog, a symbol of luck.

The dual cathedrals provide an architectural feast, blending Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles.

With its energetic student population, ancient wonders, and vibrant nightlife, Salamanca offers a seamless blend of the past and present in a truly magical setting.

Ronda , perched atop the deep El Tajo gorge, offers travellers a mesmerising blend of natural beauty and historic charm.

One of Andalusia's most visited towns, Ronda boasts the Puente Nuevo, a jaw-dropping stone bridge connecting the old and new parts of the town, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking.

Meander through the cobbled streets of the old town, and you'll be transported back in time, with whitewashed buildings and ancient Moorish remains.

The Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's oldest bullrings, stands testament to Ronda's deep-rooted bullfighting tradition.

Add to this the local vineyards, charming cafes, and the palpable sense of history, and you'll soon see why Ronda is more than just a town.

34. Santander

Santander , the elegant capital of Cantabria in northern Spain, is a coastal gem beckoning travellers with its captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and modern charm.

Nestled between the sea and verdant mountains, its beautiful beaches like El Sardinero are ideal for relaxation and water sports.

The city's maritime heritage is encapsulated in the Maritime Museum and the graceful Magdalena Palace, once the summer residence of Spanish royalty.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, indulge in the region's delectable seafood cuisine, or get lost in its bustling shopping streets.

Moreover, with its myriad cultural events, such as the Santander International Festival, the city is alive with art, music, and performances year-round.

35. Segovia

Segovia , located in the heart of Spain, stands as a testament to the nation's rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture.

The city's iconic Aqueduct, a Roman marvel, greets visitors with its grandeur, hinting at the treasures that lie within.

As you wander through the old quarter, the fairy-tale Alcazar of Segovia rises in the distance, its towers and turrets reminiscent of storybook tales.

Not far is the majestic Segovia Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that punctuates the cityscape.

Delight in the local gastronomy, especially the famed 'Cochinillo' (roast suckling pig), a must-try delicacy.

With its Jewish Quarter, ancient walls, and charming squares, Segovia offers a journey back in time, capturing the essence of old-world Spain in every corner.

36. Lloret de Mar

Nestled along Spain's stunning Costa Brava, Lloret de Mar beckons travellers with its fine beaches and shimmering Mediterranean waters.

More than just a beach haven, this vibrant town showcases a blend of history, culture, and nature.

Wander the narrow streets and discover the Sant Roma Church, a jewel of Gothic and modernist architecture.

The medieval Castle of Sant Joan offers panoramic views, standing as a sentinel to the town's storied past.

For nature lovers, the Santa Clotilde Gardens present landscaped beauty with cliff-top views.

After sunset, Lloret transforms into a lively hub, boasting a thriving nightlife scene.

Perched atop a cliff and overlooking one of the world's largest natural harbours, Mahon serves as the capital of Menorca, the Balearic Islands' tranquil gem.

Its deep British influence is evident in Georgian architecture and even a local gin distillery.

Meandering through Mahon's narrow streets reveals a tapestry of history, from the grand Santa Maria Cathedral to bustling markets brimming with local produce and crafts.

Seafood enthusiasts will relish fresh catches at waterside restaurants.

Venture further, and you'll find serene beaches a short drive away.

Located in Spain's southwestern corner, Huelva is a vibrant city and region steeped in history.

Serving as a departure point for Columbus's expeditions, its maritime heritage is proudly showcased in the Muelle de las Carabelas museum.

Huelva's natural offerings include the picturesque Marismas del Odiel wetlands and the stunning Coto Donana National Park, both teeming with diverse wildlife.

The city's rich mining history is evident in the Rio Tinto mines, which display otherworldly landscapes.

Culinary aficionados will be drawn to Huelva's famed white prawns and Jamon Iberico ( Iberian Cured Ham ).

Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage city , stands majestically on Spain's Castilian plateau.

Encircled by remarkably preserved medieval walls with 88 watchtowers, the city is a testament to its rich history.

Stepping inside, you are greeted by a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets leading to the imposing Avila Cathedral and the Convent of St. Teresa. The latter pays homage to Saint Teresa of Avila, the mystic writer and reformer.

With its rich blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and spectacular views from atop its walls, Avila offers a timeless journey into Spain's medieval past.

The city's culinary delights, particularly "Yemas de Santa Teresa," add a sweet touch to the experience.

Perched high above the Tagus River, Toledo stands as Spain's monumental testament to a coalescence of cultures.

Often dubbed the "City of Three Cultures," Toledo is a harmonious blend of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritages.

Its winding medieval streets open up to reveal the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, the historic Alcazar, and the splendid Sinagoga del Transito.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the El Greco Museum, dedicated to the city's most celebrated resident artist.

Toledo is equally renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, especially the intricate Damascene metalwork.

With its rich tapestry of history, art, and culture, Toledo remains an unmissable Spanish gem.

41. Torremolinos

Torremolinos , once a quaint fishing village, has transformed into one of the Costa del Sol's most vibrant seaside destinations.

Boasting expansive golden beaches like Playa La Carihuela and Playa de Bajondillo, it's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in fresh seafood delicacies at beachfront chiringuitos.

Beyond the shores, the town offers a pulsating nightlife, charming Andalusian streets, and the beautiful Jardin Botanico Molino de Inca.

Don't miss a stroll along the pedestrian-only Calle San Miguel, lined with shops, cafes, and eateries.

42. Andalusia

Andalusía, the vibrant southernmost region of Spain , encapsulates the quintessential Spanish experience.

From the passionate flamenco performances of Seville and the architectural marvels of Granada's Alhambra to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol, Andalusia is a mosaic of rich traditions and stunning landscapes.

Here, Moorish history blends with vibrant local festivals, whitewashed hilltop towns, and delectable tapas.

The region's diverse landscapes range from the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains to the vast olive groves of Jaen.

Lose yourself in the enchanting narrow alleys of Cordoba or embrace the festive spirit of Malaga.

43. Cantabria

Situated between the rugged Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain, Cantabria is a land of dramatic contrasts .

Its capital, Santander, is a bustling coastal city renowned for its sandy beaches and rich maritime history.

Beyond the coast, Cantabria reveals a verdant landscape dotted with medieval towns, ancient cave paintings, and stone-age relics.

The UNESCO-listed Altamira Caves showcase some of Europe's most impressive prehistoric art.

Nature enthusiasts will cherish the region's national parks, teeming with wildlife and hiking trails.

Aragon , in northeastern Spain, is a region steeped in history and breathtaking landscapes.

Dominated by the Pyrenees Mountains, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing in winter and hiking in the warmer months.

Zaragoza, the capital, boasts the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

Beyond the city, the ancient kingdom reveals medieval villages, Romanesque churches, and the UNESCO-listed Mudejar architecture of Teruel.

The region's turbulent past is echoed in its fortresses and castles, while its culinary scene tantalises with specialities like "Ternasco" (roast lamb) and Somontano wines.

45. Cartagena

Nestled on Spain's southeastern coast, Cartagena is a historical gem of the Murcia region.

With its rich Carthaginian and Roman heritage, visitors are enchanted by ancient ruins, including the renowned Roman Theatre.

The city's naval significance is evident in its maritime museum and historic port.

As you wander its narrow streets, Cartagena reveals a tapestry of architectural styles, from Modernist to Neo-Classical, making it an essential destination for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.

Located in Spain's sunny southeastern corner, Murcia boasts a blend of history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

The capital city, also named Murcia, charms visitors with its Baroque cathedral, bustling plazas, and the serene River Segura.

The region offers a rich Moorish heritage, evidenced in architectural wonders like the Alhambra-inspired Monteagudo Castle. For a refreshing escape, the Mar Menor Lagoon offers warm, shallow waters, making it a family-friendly beach destination.

As for gastronomy, Murcia delights palates with dishes like "Zarangollo" and fresh fruits, especially lemons.

47. Asturias

Asturias, a verdant gem in northern Spain, has rugged coastlines, majestic mountains, and a rich heritage.

The region of Asturias is a haven for nature lovers: the Picos de Europa mountain range offers hiking trails with breathtaking vistas, while pristine beaches like Playa del Silencio provide serene coastal retreats.

Oviedo, the capital, is steeped in history with its ancient cathedrals and pre-Romanesque churches. Cider, or "sidra", is the region's signature drink, often poured from a height to aerate it.

Traditional festivals, like "La Regalina", further showcase Asturias' vibrant culture.

48. Navarra

Navarra , located in northern Spain, captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes, from the Pyrenean foothills to the Bardenas Reales desert.

Pamplona , its capital, is famed for the exhilarating " Running of the Bulls " festival.

The region boasts ancient castles, monasteries, and the iconic Way of St. James pilgrimage route .

Navarra's vineyards produce distinguished wines, complementing its rich gastronomy.

49. Zaragoza

Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, stands as a historical crossroads between Madrid and Barcelona.

Straddling the Ebro River, this city boasts a rich tapestry of Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences.

The Basilica del Pilar, with its towering spires, is a must-visit, reflecting Zaragoza's religious heritage.

Discover ancient Roman ruins, and vibrant Mudejar architecture, and taste the region's delectable tapas. Zaragoza offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and Spanish charm.

50. Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands , an archipelago off eastern Spain, boasts sun-drenched shores and sparkling Mediterranean waters at very turn.

Comprising Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, each island offers a unique allure.

From Majorca's majestic mountains to Ibiza's pulsating nightlife, there's something for every traveller.

Explore Menorca's untouched beaches, or bask in Formentera's laid-back vibe.

Renowned for their rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultures, the Balearic Islands are a captivating Spanish paradise

51. Extremadura

Extremadura is a fascinating region located in southwest Spain and is a land of contrasts. It boasts vast plains, rugged mountains, and historic towns.

The regions of Caceres and Badajoz offer an abundance of architectural wonders, with Roman ruins in Merida and medieval fortresses dotting the landscape.

Famous for its rich culinary traditions, Extremadura produces exquisite Iberian cured ham and local wines.

With its unique blend of nature, history, and culture, Extremadura remains an unspoiled gem in Spain's crown.

52. Galicia

Galicia , a stunning region in Spain's northwest, is famed for its rugged coastline, ancient stone villages, and mystical Celtic heritage.

Santiago de Compostela, its capital, is the culmination of the revered Camino de Santiago pilgrimage .

The region is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially octopus and clams, best eaten with a glass of local Albarino wine.

Galicia's misty forests and untouched beaches make it a serene haven for travellers seeking a different Spanish experience.

53. Alcudia

Nestled on Mallorca's northeastern coast, Alcudia is a historic gem surrounded by medieval walls.

The town boasts a blend of ancient ruins, narrow cobbled streets, and a vibrant marina.

Beyond the town, visitors are drawn to the sweeping bay of Playa de Alcudia , with its golden sands stretching over 7 km.

For nature enthusiasts, S’Albufera Natural Park offers rich biodiversity. Alcudia is a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and nature.

54. Almeria

A sun-soaked gem on Spain's southeastern coast, Almeria offers a blend of Moorish heritage and Mediterranean charm.

The city's Alcazaba, a colossal fortress, overlooks a maze of winding streets and traditional tapas bars.

The nearby Tabernas Desert, Europe's only desert, has been the backdrop for many iconic films.

Alongside its historic significance, Almeria boasts pristine beaches and a vibrant port.

55. Benalmadena

Located along Spain's Costa del Sol, Benalmadena is a coastal town where traditional charm meets modern allure.

Famous for its quality beaches, the area also boasts a lively award-winning marina brimming full of yachts, shops, and restaurants.

The old town, Benalmadena Pueblo, presents whitewashed buildings and panoramic sea views.

The town's cable car provides breathtaking vistas, making Benalmadena a diverse destination for all.

56. Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol, Spain's "Sun Coast", is a shimmering stretch of Mediterranean shoreline in Andalusia.

Renowned for its golden beaches, the region blends vibrant resorts like Marbella and Torremolinos with traditional Andalusian charm.

Estepona's cobbled streets, Mijas' white-washed buildings, and Malaga's historic core showcase the area's rich heritage.

With over 300 sunny days a year, world-class golf courses, and lively nightlife, the Costa del Sol promises an unforgettable escape.

57. Costa de la Luz

Costa de la Luz , or "Coast of Light", is a less-travelled gem on Spain's southern shores, facing the Atlantic.

Famous for its high-quality long sandy beaches , the coast stretches from Tarifa to the border with Portugal.

Steeped in history, towns like Cadiz , one of Europe's oldest cities, stand testament to the region's rich past.

The area boasts unspoiled beaches, stunning sunsets, and traditional festivals, offering a serene alternative to Spain's busier coastlines.

58. Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca , translating to "White Coast," is a revered stretch along Spain's eastern coastline in the Alicante province.

Renowned for its pristine sandy beaches and clear waters, it attracts millions of holidaymakers yearly.

From the buzzing nightlife of Benidorm to the historic charm of Alicante City , the region seamlessly blends modernity with tradition.

Its mild climate, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant local culture make Costa Blanca a top destination for sun-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

59. Costa Calida

Costa Calida , Spain's "Warm Coast," is a captivating stretch along Murcia's coastline.

Blessed with a mild climate, this coastal gem boasts over 250 km of diverse beaches, from serene coves to expansive sandy shores.

The region's unique charm is heightened by the Mar Menor, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon.

Beyond its beaches, Costa Calida's rich history is evident in its archaeological sites and traditional Spanish towns.

60. Formentera

Formentera, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a Mediterranean paradise renowned for its crystalline turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches.

Often dubbed the Caribbean of Europe, its untouched natural beauty promises tranquillity away from the bustle.

Highlighted by landmarks like the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse and dotted with traditional fishing villages, Formentera offers an authentic island experience.

With no airport, its seclusion is preserved, making it a haven for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

61. Costa Brava

Costa Brava, Spain's rugged "Wild Coast", stretches from Blanes to the French border.

Known for its dramatic cliffs, scenic coves, and golden beaches, it’s a sun-soaked haven for holidaymakers.

Beyond its natural allure, Costa Brava boasts medieval towns like Tossa de Mar and the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres.

With its rich culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and a blend of history, it offers the quintessential Mediterranean experience.

Nestled on Spain's eastern coast, Gandia is a gem of the Valencian Community .

Famous for its pristine beaches like Playa Norte, the town promises sun-filled relaxation.

But there's more than just the shoreline; Gandia's historic heart reveals the Ducal Palace, once home to the Borgia family.

Whether indulging in local cuisine, strolling the maritime promenade, or delving into its rich history, Gandia presents a harmonious blend of coastal allure and cultural charm.

63. Estepona

Estepona , a captivating coastal town on the Costa del Sol, offers a serene escape with its golden beaches and charming Old Town.

Flower-filled lanes lead visitors to Andalusian whitewashed buildings , while the bustling marina showcases a vibrant dining scene.

Estepona balances traditional Spanish culture with modern amenities, making it a preferred destination for those seeking both relaxation and a touch of authenticity.

64. Fuengirola

Fuengirola is a vibrant seaside resort town on the Costa del Sol known for its expansive sandy beaches and bustling promenade.

The town boasts a rich history, with the Moorish Sohail Castle standing sentinel over the Mediterranean.

Modern attractions include a bustling marina, an array of international eateries, and the Bioparc, a modern zoo with naturalistic habitats.

Fuengirola offers a harmonious blend of traditional charm and contemporary entertainment and is a first-class destination for families and couples.

Nerja, a gem on the Costa del Sol, is renowned for its stunning seafront and the Balcon de Europa, offering panoramic Mediterranean views.

Beyond its lovely beaches, Nerja is home to the awe-inspiring Caves of Nerja, a series of caverns with ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

The town exudes traditional Andalusian charm with its whitewashed houses, winding streets, and inviting tapas bars.

A haven for both beach lovers and history enthusiasts.

66. Pollensa

Located in the northern reaches of Mallorca, Pollensa boasts a blend of historical allure and natural beauty.

Its Old Town, with cobblestone streets and an iconic 365-step stairway leading to the Calvari Chapel, tells tales of bygone eras.

The nearby Port de Pollensa offers a picturesque seaside setting, while the Tramuntana mountains backdrop invites hiking enthusiasts.

From bustling weekly markets to serene plazas, Pollensa encapsulates Mallorcan's charm.

67. Torrevieja

Torrevieja , a dynamic coastal city in Spain's Costa Blanca, is renowned for its expansive salt lakes, contributing to a unique microclimate.

The palm-lined promenades, bustling marina, and sandy beaches beckon sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its natural appeal, the city pulsates with a vibrant nightlife, eclectic restaurants, and bustling markets.

Torrevieja strikes a balance between its salt-mining heritage and its modern appeal as a favoured Mediterranean holiday destination.

Salou is a gem on Spain's Costa Dorada , and is the quintessential beach haven.

With its golden sands and clean seas, families and thrill-seekers flock here annually.

Notably, it's the gateway to the famous PortAventura theme park, offering exhilarating rides and attractions.

The palm-fringed promenade, abundant with cafes and shops, provides an idyllic backdrop for evening strolls.

Salou's enchanting blend of natural beauty, leisure, and vibrant nightlife guarantees a memorable escape.

Sitges, situated along Catalonia's sun-drenched coast, epitomises Spanish charm.

Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and annual film and carnival events, it's a cultural hotspot.

Whitewashed houses dot the town, while its Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla stands as an iconic beacon against the Mediterranean horizon.

Popular among the LGBTQ+ community for its welcoming spirit, Sitges offers both relaxed beach days and animated nightlife, ensuring a diverse experience for all.

70. La Manga

La Manga , a sunlit haven on Spain's southeastern coast, is famous for its unique geography—a 21 km long, narrow sandbar known as "La Manga del Mar Menor."

This strip separates the Mediterranean Sea from the Mar Menor lagoon, giving visitors double the beachfront.

With water sports, golf courses, and calm seas, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Boasting both tranquil lagoons and vibrant Mediterranean waves, La Manga offers an unparalleled dual beach experience.

71. Costa Dorada

The Costa Dorada , or "Golden Coast", stretches along Spain's northeastern shore.

Located in Catalonia, it boasts historic towns like Tarragona with ancient Roman ruins, and modern retreats like Salou, famous for its lively nightlife and the iconic PortAventura theme park.

From serene beachfronts to bustling promenades, Costa Dorada provides a harmonious blend of history and modern-day leisure.

Best Places To Visit in Spain For Young Adults

Spain is a haven for young adults seeking a blend of cultural immersion, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty.

Barcelona tops the list with its iconic architecture, trendy El Raval district, and beachside bars. For a taste of bohemian life, Madrid's Malasana district offers vintage shops, alternative bars, and a lively arts scene.

Party-goers flock to Ibiza for world-renowned clubs and beach parties.

Adventurous souls can head to Tarifa for windsurfing or the Canary Islands for spectacular hikes and water sports.

Valencia merges modern architecture with historic charm, while Granada, with the mesmerizing Alhambra and bustling tapas bars, promises a unique Andalusian experience.

Seville's flamenco shows are a must-see.

Lastly, San Sebastian offers delicious Basque cuisine and a vibrant nightlife.

Each destination in Spain promises young adults a fusion of experiences, from historical discoveries to electrifying nightlife.

Best Places To Go In Spain For Couples

For couples looking to explore romance interwoven with culture, Spain presents itself as a dream destination.

Begin with Seville, the land of passionate flamenco , intimate plaza dinners, and the enchanting Alcazar.

Barcelona allows couples to stroll hand in hand down La Rambla, share kisses at the Magic Fountain, and bask on the beaches of Barceloneta.

Ronda , perched atop a cliff, is ideal for those seeking breathtaking views and intimate moments.

Granada's Alhambra offers a backdrop of Moorish artistry, while the narrow alleyways of Albayzín invite quiet exploration.

For wine aficionados, La Rioja's vineyards offer cosy wine-tasting sessions. Menorca , often overshadowed by its boisterous siblings, provides tranquil beaches and secret coves.

Lastly, the Camino de Santiago isn't just for pilgrims; couples can embark on this spiritual journey, deepening their bond amidst Spain's diverse landscapes.

Each locale in Spain serves as a canvas for creating lasting memories together.

Best Places in Spain By The Sea

Spain, with its extensive coastline, boasts an array of seaside gems that captivate the soul.

Starting with the sun-soaked Costa del Sol , Marbella is a haven for beach lovers and luxury seekers, while Nerja offers serene beaches and the mesmerizing Balcon de Europa viewpoint.

Costa Brava, characterised by rocky cliffs and hidden coves, has places like Cadaques, which inspired Salvador Dali.

The breathtaking Playa de las Catedrales in Galicia features natural arches carved by the sea. In the Basque Country , San Sebastian stuns visitors with its La Concha beach and vibrant pintxo bars.

Down south, the pristine beaches of Tarifa are perfect for wind sports.

Valencia’s vast beachfront is coupled with the modern marvels of the City of Arts and Sciences .

Over in the Balearic Islands , the turquoise waters of Formentera rival any Caribbean paradise.

Each of these coastal spots embodies the enchantment of Spain's maritime beauty.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the nicest place in spain to holiday.

Spain is diverse, with each region offering unique beauty. For coastal allure, the Costa Brava and Andalusia's beaches are mesmerising. For cultural richness, cities like Seville, Barcelona, Madrid and Granada shine. Meanwhile, regions like Basque Country and Asturias offer lush landscapes and gastronomy. Ultimately, the "nicest" part depends on individual preferences.

What is the #1 attraction in Spain?

The #1 attraction in Spain varies based on personal preferences. However, La Sagrada Família in Barcelona , designed by Antoni Gaudí, is the most visited due to its architectural brilliance and deep cultural significance.

Which region in Spain has the best beaches?

Spain offers numerous stunning beaches, but the Costa de la Luz in Andalusia is often praised for its pristine, golden sands and clear waters. That said, regions like the Balearic Islands, Costa Brava, and Costa Blanca also boast breathtaking coastlines, making Spain's beach offerings diverse and unparalleled

Where is the cheapest holiday in Spain?

For budget-conscious travellers, regions like Costa del Sol and C osta Blanca offer affordable holiday options. Inland cities like Granada, Seville, and Valencia can also provide great value. Always consider the off-peak season and less touristy areas for the most cost-effective Spanish getaway .

What month is cheapest for Spain?

The cheapest months to visit Spain are typically during the off-seasons: late autumn (October to November) and early spring (March to April). During these periods, you can find discounted accommodations and fewer crowds, while still enjoying pleasant weather in most regions.

How can I go to Spain on a low budget?

To travel to Spain on a low budget , consider visiting during the off-season, use budget airlines or overland transportation, opt for budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, eat at local tapas bars or markets, and utilise free attractions and free walking tours to explore the cities. Public transport and regional cards can offer additional savings.

Which Costa in Spain is cheapest?

The Costa de Almería and Costa de la Luz are often considered the most budget-friendly Costas in Spain. They offer beautiful beaches and attractions at a lower price point than some of the more popular and touristy coastlines, making them great choices for travellers seeking value.

What is the most expensive place in Spain for holidays?

Destinations including San Sebastian, Ibiza, Barcelona, and Marbella, are among the most expensive holiday destinations in Spain.

• About Author
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Hey there! I'm Matt, your friendly neighbourhood explorer extraordinaire! For the past 15 years, I've been gallivanting around Spain, soaking up all its wonders and uncovering hidden gems like a modern-day Indiana Jones (minus the hat and whip, unfortunately). So, buckle up, amigos! It's time to dive straight into the heart and soul of Spain. Welcome to my world of Spanish wonders!

Latest posts from Matt

• A Guide to Luxury Family Holidays in Ibiza - August 25, 2024
• Best Hidden Gems of Aragon in Northern Spain - August 24, 2024
• Discover Spain’s Urban Jewels: From Barcelona to Seville - August 22, 2024

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20 Best Places to Visit in Spain

From charming villages and famous sights to gorgeous beaches and parks, here are the top spots for the ultimate itinerary.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain comprises 17 autonomous regions, each with its own distinctive scenery, landmarks, culture, and cuisine. From beautiful Balearic beaches and the Antoni Gaudí architecture that characterizes Barcelona to the rolling vineyards of Rioja and the impressive Royal Palace in Madrid, the country is packed with idyllic landscapes and historic sights — not to mention delicious things to eat and drink. To help you narrow down the choices, we've compiled a list of the best places to visit in Spain.

• Best tourist destination: La Sagrada Família
• Underrated hidden gem: Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo
• Best for families: Casa de Campo
• Best for couples: Rioja Alta
• Best for solo travelers: San Sebastián

Read on to discover the rest of our 20 recommendations.

La Sagrada Família

Vladislav Zolotov / Getty Images

Catalonia's capital city, Barcelona , is home to numerous landmarks designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. His most famous, La Sagrada Família , is still being built more than 140 years after the project began in 1882. Construction came to a halt when Gaudí died suddenly in 1926 and has since been interrupted by funding issues, design changes, and major events like the Spanish Civil War and the Covid-19 pandemic. It is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of his death in 2026. The building's pointed windows, flying buttresses, twisted towers, and religious carvings make it one of the most beautiful places in Europe . 

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

Fernando Valero Lopez / Getty Images

A must-see on any visit to Toledo, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is a master class in Spanish Gothic architecture. Highlights of the Roman Catholic church include stained-glass windows, soaring arched ceilings, flying buttresses, frescos, and a gallery filled with paintings by El Greco.

Casa de Campo

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In Madrid, Casa de Campo covers about 4,258 acres — for anyone doing the math, that makes it more than five times the size of Central Park in New York City. You'll find verdant fields, forests, multiuse walking and cycling paths, tennis courts, a lake for boating, plus an amusement park, a zoo, and an aquarium.

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The westernmost of the three Rioja subregions, Rioja Alta is known for its vineyards that cling to the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria hills. If you want to soak in the colorful scenery, learn more about production methods, and sip world-class tempranillo, plan a tour and a tasting at some of the bodegas near the town of Haro.

San Sebastián

Natalia Ordasi / Getty Images

Foodies flock to San Sebastián, the pearl of the Cantabrian Sea. This legendary culinary destination in northern Spain is beloved for its Basque cuisine and an abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by some of the most talented chefs in the world. Fuel up at the city's best pintxos (snack) bars and fine-dining spots, but leave time to hit the golden beaches and explore the atmospheric Old Quarter while you're in town.

Sierra Nevada National Park

Stefan Cristian Cioata / Getty Images

Snow-capped peaks define Sierra Nevada National Park . This protected area in the Andalusian provinces of Almería and Granada boasts the highest mountains in continental Spain. It’s also home to many rivers, verdant meadows, pine groves, and wildlife such as mountain goats and golden eagles.

The Royal Palace of Madrid

Rory Fuller / Travel + Leisure

The Royal Palace of Madrid has the distinction of being the largest royal residence in Western Europe. Although the Spanish royal family doesn’t actually reside there anymore, the 3,418-room architectural marvel is still used for state ceremonies. It also welcomes visitors, who come in droves to admire its priceless artwork, armor, and gilded decor.

Platja de Ses Illetes

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Set on the tiny Balearic island of Formentera, Platja de Ses Illetes is among the most beautiful beaches in the world . A narrow strip of paradise blessed with pristine white sand and warm, shallow, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot for a dreamy day trip. 

Cathedral of Mallorca

Christopher Larson / Travel + Leisure

Also referred to as La Seu, the Cathedral of Mallorca stands as an emblem of the city of Palma. Constructed at the behest of the Crown of Aragon on the site of a Moorish-era mosque, the impressive landmark shows off a unique blend of Catalan Gothic architecture, Northern European influences, and sea views. 

The Royal Alcázar of Seville

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The Royal Alcázar of Seville was originally constructed in 913 as a Moorish fortress, itself built on the ruins of an ancient Roman citadel. It changed hands several times before Castilian Christians built over the alcázar, or palace, in 1364 on behalf of King Pedro I of Castile. Over the years, many generations and cultures have left their mark on the palace through elaborate tilework, ornamental carvings, tapestries, and museum-quality art.

Valldemossa

The beautiful hilltop village of Valldemossa on the northwest coast of Mallorca feels far from the capital city of Palma, though it’s only 20 minutes away. Narrow streets wind toward the Cartoixa de Valldemossa (also called Real Cartuja or the Royal Carthusian Monastery), a former royal palace that was later gifted to monks.

Visitors can learn more about the town’s history at Costa Nord , a cultural center created in 2002 by actor Michael Douglas, a long-time Valldemossa resident. Get a sense of Mallorca’s past by watching a documentary (narrated by Douglas), then tour Nixe Hall, where you can check out a model of Archduke Luis Salvador’s legendary sailboat.

Cap de Formentor

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The northern tip of Mallorca, Cap de Formentor seems almost unreal with its dramatic, windswept natural beauty and lack of tourists. This off-the-beaten-path promontory exudes a remote allure with near-empty beaches, pine forests, winding roads, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop. 

Prado Museum

In Madrid , the Prado Museum (or Museo Nacional del Prado , as it's officially known) serves as the main repository of national art. This popular attraction boasts a truly spectacular collection of works by Spanish masters, including paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, and sculptures. You'll also find pieces by other well-known European artists like Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt in the mix.

Ciutat de las Artes y las Ciencias

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Valencia's most significant and snap-worthy modern tourist attraction, Ciutat de las Artes y las Ciencias , is a futuristic-looking cultural complex that was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava. It features a ship-shaped opera house, an IMAX dome theater, an interactive science museum, an open-air art gallery, and the largest aquarium in Europe.  

Plaza de España

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While Seville certainly isn’t lacking in photogenic landmarks, the Aníbal González-designed Plaza de España inside Parque de María Luisa should be at the top of your list. Constructed ahead of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, the famous plaza is truly showstopping, featuring grand buildings, a large fountain, canals, and tile-ornamented bridges.

Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey

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About an hour's drive from Barcelona, Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey is one of the most beautiful places in Catalonia. The impressive mountain monastery has attracted pilgrims since it was founded in 1025, largely because it’s home to La Moreneta, a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that’s believed to have been carved by St. Luke and is said to have performed miracles. Admire the paintings, sculptures, and other works by local artists at the on-site art museum , attend a church service in the basilica, or catch a performance by one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe. Whatever you do, you'll be surrounded by incredible natural scenery.

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Famous for its legendary nightclubs and party scene, Ibiza has become known in recent years as a luxury wellness destination . Experience the island's natural beauty on a relaxing walk along the white sands of Playa d'en Bossa, just outside Ibiza Town. Spend your nights dancing until dawn and your days recuperating on the beach or in a top-notch spa at Atzaró or the Six Senses Ibiza .

Santiago de Compostela

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All roads lead to Santiago de Compostela, an impressive cathedral visited by pilgrims from all over the world via the Camino de Santiago , an extensive network of paths leading from Spain, France, and Portugal. People have been making the pilgrimage to see the burial place of St. James the Apostle since the ninth century; today, many visit as a part of their own spiritual journey, joining tour groups to make their way to the bustling historic city center, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop by the area’s other popular sites, like the Galician Center of Contemporary Art and Gaiás Cidade de Cultura , the region's cultural museum, after visiting the cathedral.

Evgeni Dinev Photography / Getty Images

The ancient Andalusian city of Ronda is located in the mountains of southern Spain, set against a massive gorge. The Plaza de Toros Bullring is known as the “birthplace of bullfighting” and serves as a museum if you’re interested in learning more about that side of Spanish culture. Ronda's other historic sites are all within walking distance, making it easy to explore the compact town. Stop by Puente Nuevo, the city’s most famous bridge, for a quick photo, then head to Palacio Mondragón to experience the region’s Moorish influences and stroll through the scenic water gardens.

Playa de As Catedrais

Mikel Bilbao / VW Pics / UIG / Getty Images

In Galicia, one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches, Playa de As Catedrais (aka The Cathedrals) looks like something out of a movie, with huge rock formations rising up from the sand and crystal blue waters gleaming beneath rugged arches. Reachable by bus, car, train, or bicycle, the beach requires reservations for visits during its busiest times — between July 1 and September 30, as well as during the Easter holidays — so be sure to book your free entry ticket ahead of time online.

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The 18 best places to visit in Spain

From the bars of Barcelona and beaches of Andalucia to small towns and wine regions, these are Spain’s essential destinations

Millions flock to Spain every year to see the likes of Barcelona , Madrid and Valencia. And while those top dogs are popular for a reason (they’re all fantastic), there’s so much more to this beautiful country than just its famous cities. 

So why not save some energy for the national parks, the cultural richness and fascinating history of this enveloping country while you’re here? You’ll find secret wineries, romantic castles, symbolic mountains and more, in a country that is as varied as it is fabulous. Here are the very best places to visit in Spain, according to our experts.

RECOMMENDED: 📍   The best things to do in Spain 🏖   The  best beaches in Spain 😋   The best restaurants in Spain 🗺 The best city breaks in Europe

At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best places to visit in Spain

At least once in their lives, everyone – yes, everyone – should visit Barcelona. The capital of the northwest autonomous region of Catalonia, this city is a cultural behemoth with museums, restaurants and nightlife options galore. It ain’t one of the most popular destinations on the planet for nothing, y’know.

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Elegant, magnificent, glorious Madrid ticks every box you could want of a capital city. From the Prado to the Debod Egyptian temple, the Spanish capital is absolutely teeming with elite museums, classic attractions, continent-leading restaurants, blissful green spaces and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned Madrid veteran or first-timer, this city has enough stuff to see and do to fill several lifetimes. 

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📍 The best things to do in Madrid 😋 The best restaurants in Madrid 🍹 The best bars in Madrid

Over the past few decades Bilbao has transformed from being the industrial powerhouse of the Basque region into a dazzling cultural hub. The swish and flashy Guggenheim might get the most attention, but this northern city’s old town, markets, Nirvión estuary and delicious pintxos also ensure it’s one of Spain’s most distinctive and exciting destinations.

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Despite seeing an uptick in international visitors in recent years, the western coastal city of Valencia remains a criminally underrated Spanish destination. As renowned for its arts and sciences as it is for its foodie history and gastronomic innovation, Valencia is as exciting as contemporary Spain gets. And it’s all within reach of some of the country’s finest beaches! Dreamy.

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Sitting sun-scorched pretty much year-round, the southern city of Seville is a laidback, romantic sort of place. Boasting stately palaces, intimate courtyards, characterful bars and plenty of tasty (and cheap) tapas restaurants, Spain’s fourth-largest city enchants on several levels. Just remember your sunscreen.

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Yes, Ibiza’s known for its legendary parties – but there’s much more to this Mediterranean isle than its world-class clubs. Delightful beaches, lip-smackingly good seafood and over 100 rugged hiking trails mean that Ibiza is far, far from a one-trick pony.  

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Centred around the majestic Alhambra palace – a massive fortress which sits high up on a hill mightily overlooking the city – Granada sees medieval and modern Spain clash in a very gritty, down-to-earth sort of way. Medieval Moorish architecture and ancient cave dwellings rub shoulders with buzzy student communities and rowdy tapas bars – it’s a captivating mix.

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Canary Islands

The Canaries have been a well-established holiday destination for decades – so there’s a chance you might have dismissed them as package holiday fodder. But you couldn’t be more wrong. From Gran Canaria ’s dazzling archaeological sites and Fuerteventura ’s aloe vera estates to Tenerife ’s stargazing and Lanzarote ’s marvels of modernist architecture, these islands are packed full of surprises.

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Make no mistake: Majorca (or ‘Mallorca’, as the locals call it) lives up to its rep when it comes to sun, sand and surf. This place has over 300 beaches and coves – but it’s also got much, much more. The largest Balearic island, Majorca also boasts scenic hikes, picturesque stone villages, characterful markets and one-of-a-kind museums, to name just a few of its charms.

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Travellers’ usual mad dash to the resorts of Costa Blanca often means they overlook the city of Alicante – and that’s a crying shame! Alicante is alive with clifftop castles, fascinating museums, grand bazaars and maze-like neighbourhoods. It’s always, always worth a look.

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Sat in northern Catalonia on the confluence of four (yep, four) rivers, Girona is one of Spain’s most historically-rich cities, founded by the Romans well over a thousand years ago. The Girona of today is a well-preserved ancient city, from its gorgeous medieval walled quarter to its towering main cathedral.

Málaga is the capital and main hub on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, but it’s one of Spain’s top cultural destinations, too. Take a break from the city’s magnificent beaches and turquoise waters and you’ll find an art hub home to the likes of the Museo Picasso and the only Centre Pompidou outside of France.

Beach spots don’t come much more legendary than Benidorm (yes, UK readers, it’s a real place and not just a TV show), but this is a particularly attraction-packed seaside town. Aside from the iconic Playa de Poniente, you’ve got natural parks, craggy rock formations, elegant restaurants and spirited tapas bars aplenty. In other words, there’s more than enough in Benidorm to keep you busy when you’re off the beach.

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Benalmádena

A short trip down the coast from Málaga, Benalmádena is a town primed for pleasure. Home to pristine beaches, well-equipped resorts and thrilling theme parks, here you’ll find the bustle of the Costa del Sol rub shoulders with mountainside tranquillity. Few places know how to kick back and relax quite like it.

Santiago de Compostela

The final stop of the centuries-old Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Santiago de Compostela is as well-known for the baroque grandeur of its huge cathedral as it is for its rugged, wind-battered coastal landscape. Santiago is one of Spain’s less sunny spots, sure, but it’s also one of its most fascinating.  

Yes, wine . You knew we’d get here eventually. La Rioja is one of the world’s most famous wine-growing regions, known for its particularly fruity, aromatic vinos . And if you’re a big fan of wine? Well, you’d be silly not to pop into a few vineyards and wineries such as the Frank Gehry-designed Marqués de Riscal or the vast and labyrinthine López de Heredia.

Most remarkable about the Extremedura city of Cáceres isn’t just its mishmash of cultures – it’s that somehow pretty much all of them have been preserved so well. From the Romans and Moors to the Goths (no, not those goths) and the Renaissance, Cáceres is a wonderful and fascinating hodgepodge. Mixed in amongst all that are Michelin-starred restaurants, Fluxus art museums and tonnes of fab churches and squares.

Ever seen a building quite like that ? Thought not. Cuenca’s famous for its Hanging Houses ('Casas Colgadas'), which cling to the ravine cliffs of the Huécar river. And that isn’t the only attraction in Cuenca. In fact, the entire walled town is Unesco-protected and crammed full of spectacular churches, convents, palaces, castles and towers.

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Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Spain

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 17, 2024

From the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, and from there to the Atlantic, Spain is more diverse than stereotypes would have you believe. Paella and bullfighting may be Spanish, but neither defines this Iberian country . You’ll get to witness a wide range of culture in Spain – more than you’d expect.

Discover Catalan culture in Barcelona, complete with dreamlike buildings thanks to Antoni Gaud. Try out pintxos – the Basque take on tapas – in the northwest, and see the mark left by Moorish architecture in Andalusia in the south.

There’s a whole lot more besides. And that’s without even mentioning the beaches of the famous Costas. Or the incredible Roman ruins that dot the country – especially Segovia, with its aqueduct. Expect history, good food, and plenty of sun – all in healthy doses. Plan your trip to this awesome Mediterranean travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Spain.

Founded back in 25 AD by the Romans, Merida boasts some of the most impressive, extensive, and well-preserved ruins in the whole of Spain. Now the capital of the autonomous community of Extremadura , the city lies in the western-central part of the Iberian Peninsula, with the Guadiana and Albarregas rivers running through it.

As it boasts almost two thousand years of history, ancient historical sights and archaeological ruins are found wherever you go. Of these, the magnificent old Roman Theatre is a must visit; it still holds flamenco shows and theater performances to this day.

Besides this, there are the wonderful remains of a Moorish fortress, as well as a remarkably well-preserved bridge, aqueduct, and hippodrome – all of which were built by the Romans. In addition, there are some lovely Baroque and Gothic churches scattered around town, as well as interesting and informative museums showcasing the city’s rich history.

The largest city in Spain’s Basque Country, Bilbao lies on an estuary just 16 kilometers south of the Bay of Biscay . As its climate is milder and wetter than much of the rest of the country, the city’s parks and riverbanks are fertile and green, as are the rolling hills surrounding it.

Bilbao was best known as an important seaport and industrial city in northern Spain until the construction of an architectural marvel in the 1990s known as the Guggenheim Museum . Since then, this capital city of Vizcaya has experienced a boom in tourism, promoting economic growth and revitalization of its many hidden gems , making it a popular destination.

Celebrated as one of the most important architectural works of its time, the Guggenheim Museum now shines as Bilbao’s city symbol. Devoted to modern and contemporary art, this giant complex of interconnecting buildings presents a massive work of abstract sculpture that suggests a maritime theme with its simulation of ship outlines and shimmering fish scales.

Other places to go in Bilbao include the 14th century Gothic Cathedral of Santiago and the Basilica de Begoña. Built in 1909 and recently refurbished, the Alhondiga is a multipurpose complex housing a library, restaurants and a rooftop swimming pool with a glass floor.

15. Salamanca

The capital and largest city of the province of the same name, Salamanca lies on the banks of the Tormes River on Spain’s Northern Plateau. Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful Renaissance cities in the whole of Europe, its historic center is full of architectural treasures and incredible monuments that date back centuries.

Life in the city revolves around the busy and bustling Plaza Mayor , which is lined by cafes, bars and restaurants. The expansive and elegant square looks particularly magical at night when its majestic buildings are lit up.

Nearby, you can find other stunning places to see such as the New and Old Cathedrals, both of which exhibit exquisite architecture. Like the rest of the city, they are built out of sandstone. It is these warm hues that lend Salamanca its nickname – La Dorada , or ‘Golden City’.

While history is all around, Salamanca has a vivacious and youthful feel thanks to its large student population. Remarkably, the University of Salamanca was founded in 1218 and is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Europe.

One of the most popular cities to visit in the Castilla La Mancha region of Spain, Cuenca is located in a precarious position at the point where two deep river gorges meet. Its strategic setting saw it fought over, conquered and ruled by both the Muslims and Christians, with Napoleon himself leaving his mark in the early 1800s.

This makes it fascinating to explore; lots of centuries-old churches, a cathedral, and a castle can be found hidden away among the meandering streets of its medieval old town. While its beautiful buildings are painted in warm hues, vivid colors and daring designs coat the walls of its numerous modern art galleries and museums.

The charming city is particularly noted for its casas colgadas – or hanging houses – which are built over the side of the clifftop upon which Cuenca is perched. Besides being phenomenal feats of engineering, these astounding edifices make for some fantastic photos and are best viewed from the bridge of San Pablo.

The third largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is located off the east coast of Spain, surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean . While it is famous for its pounding nightlife and summer club scene which attract world-renowned DJs to its shores, the island actually has many other different sides.

Quite rocky and rugged, Ibiza is lined by beautiful bays and beaches; this, coupled with its warm, sunny and dry climate, makes it a great beach holiday destination . The largest city on the island, Ibiza Town boasts a majestic walled old town perched atop of a hill overlooking the sea.

While you can certainly find relaxing rural retreats and sleepy, seaside villages on the island, many people visit Ibiza for its incredible party scene and exhilarating electronic dance sets. In summer, its heaving clubs stay open through the night until dawn, when the sun finally rises over the sea.

12. Segovia

The capital and largest city of the province of the same name, Segovia is set in a scenic spot with the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains rising in the distance. Its sun-kissed streets straddle the Eresma River on Spain’s Inner Plateau with Valladolid and Madrid lying not far away.

Segovia is famed for its historical sights . Within its walled Old Town you can find the Aqueduct of Segovia , which was built around 100 AD by the Romans. While this engineering marvel acts as the city’s symbol, other astonishing sights, such as a grand and gorgeous Gothic cathedral and numerous churches, convents and monasteries, can be found nearby.

The other main attraction is the elegant Alcazar of Segovia , set atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the city. Said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, the medieval castle and palace features lots of fine architecture and was once one of the favorite royal residences of the Kings of Castille.

Located in one of the most spectacular settings imaginable, Ronda, in the south of Spain, straddles the steep El Tajo gorge , overlooking the valleys and hills that lie before it.

Spanning the breadth of the gorge is Puente Nuevo, the city’s main landmark built in 1793. The impressive bridge connects the more modern El Mercadillo part of town with El Ciudad , the old Moorish quarter, which is home to marvelous churches, elegant palaces and pretty gardens. The town is considered to be the cradle of modern Spanish bullfighting; its neoclassical ring is the oldest such building in the country.

Due to its rich cultural heritage and history as well as its dramatic clifftop setting, Ronda has long drawn writers and poets alike to its ancient streets.

While Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce and Rainer Maria Rilke all visited at one time or another, Ronda now attracts lots of tourists and is one of the most popular and picturesque towns to visit in Andalusia .

10. Santiago de Compostela

The capital city of the Galicia region in northwestern Spain, Santiago de Compostela is famous as the final destination of the traditional pilgrimage known as Camino de Santiago. Also called the Way of St. James, this pilgrimage dates back to Medieval times and is important to many because it is believed that Santiago de Compostela is where St. James , an Apostle of Jesus Christ, is buried. Today, the city attracts thousands of visitors every year for both its religious tradition and history.

The arriving point for most pilgrims is the main square, Praza do Obradoiro . Situated in the heart of the city, this bustling plaza is the scene of many important landmarks , particularly the Santiago Cathedral where the tomb of St. James is located. Other historic buildings here are GelmÌrez Palace, Rajoy Palace, Catholic Kings Hostal and San Jeronimo College.

The Pilgrimage Museum is a good place to learn all about the history and significance of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage while the Museum of the Galician People showcases the culture and history of the region.

Perched on a mountaintop in central Spain, Toledo served as the Spanish capital until the 16th century. Because it was inhabited by Jews, Christians and Muslims for many centuries, the city is sometimes called the “City of Three Cultures.” Today, Toledo is a popular destination for its wealth of historic art and architecture that dates back to the Roman Empire .

The best thing to do in Toledo is to get lost amid the medieval streets and admire the old architecture that includes stunning churches, synagogues and mosques as well as a remarkable old Roman fortress.

The site of many historic events, the Zordocover plaza is well worth a visit as well as the many nearby shops. Charming cafes offer a break to relax, people-watch and sample local specialties like Mazapan , a sweet treat made with almonds and pine nuts. In the evenings, local bars offer pre-dinner drinks and tapas.

Once the home of Spain’s great painter, El Greco , Toledo features a vibrant arts scene. The city is teeming in museums and art galleries while the Cathedral of Toledo has an impressive art collection of works by masters like Goya, Ralphael and Titian. A great number of El Greco’s pieces can be seen throughout many of the city’s churches and landmarks.

Cordoba is the capital of the province of the same name in the Andalusian region of southern Spain. While Cordoba is characterized by its small town charm, this mid-size city offers all the historic and cultural attractions of a bustling metropolis.

One of the oldest towns in Europe, the historic quarter of Cordoba is a maze of tiny medieval streets, plazas and whitewashed courtyards all situated around the star attraction, the Mezquita . Initially built as a mosque, the Mezquita is now a glorious cathedral retaining most of its original architecture. Its forest of columns topped with Islamic-style red and white striped arches serves as a reminder of the glory and importance Córdoba held in medieval times. Outside the Mezquita is a beautiful orange grove perfect for relaxing.

Other places of interest include the Fortress of the Christian Monarchs, the Street of Flowers, and the Old Jewish Quarter with its charming patios and souvenir shops. Once a Roman city, Cordoba also features many Roman structures including its old walls, gates, bridge, an amphitheater and mausoleum.

Throughout the city are various plazas offering a range of museums, theaters, restaurants, hotels and bars. Plaza de las Tendillas is the main square with a vibrant shopping scene while the Plaza del Port is associated with Cervantes’s Don Quixote.

Cordoba is buzzing in the month of May with three lively festivals that include the May Crosses Festival, the Patios Festival and the Codoba Fair. During these events, the city’s plazas and courtyards are all decorated while various contests, flamenco dancing, traditional food and drink all fill the streets.

7. San Sebastian

San Sebastian is the capital of the Gipuzko province, located in the Basque country of North Spain off the coast of the Bay of Biscay. This beautiful seaside city is well-loved for its excellent beaches and outstanding culinary tradition.

Although it is divided into several districts, San Sebastian is a small, cozy city crammed with restaurants, pintxo bars, designer shops and an enclosed mall. The Old Town features many historic buildings reconstructed in the 19th century after the city was nearly destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars.

San Sebastian boasts some of the best beaches in Europe with the most popular of these being Playa de la Concha , which offers sunbathing and water activities like swimming, kayaking and water skiing. Playa de la Zurriola attracts many surfers and provides surf board and body board rentals.

Overlooking the city are two lofty hills, Monte Urgell and Mount Igueldo, which offer hiking, funicular rides, amusement parks, remarkable statues and fantastic views.

San Sebastian is widely appreciated in Spain for its pintxos . Pintxos are appetizers, which are prepared in a wide variety of fresh vegetables, meats and seafood. Many of the bars in the city feature buffets displaying a range of these pintxos. The local tradition is to go from one bar to the next, sampling one or two pintxos with a drink of wine or beer.

A number of festivals and events take place in the city throughout the year. Drawing the most crowds are the San Sebastian Film Festival and the Jazz Festival.

6. Valencia

One of the largest and most important cities in Spain , Valencia is located in the eastern part of the country in the region of Valencia. After several years of major construction and renovation, Valencia today is famous for its Fallas Festival and the City of Arts and Sciences architectural masterpiece.

Valencia is stuffed with restored historic buildings that include stunning churches, old monasteries such as San Miguel de los Reyes and the site of an ancient silk trade center known today as the Silk Exchange Market.

See also: Where to Stay in Valencia

After redirecting the Turia River, the city constructed its most impressive attraction , a massive cultural and entertainment complex known as the City of Arts and Science. Contained within this complex are several buildings such as a science museum, planetarium, aquarium, arts museum and an IMAX theater that are each artistic marvels in and of themselves. Also included in the old Turia riverbed are beautiful gardens, athletic parks and artificial lakes.

One of Valencia’s most popular neighborhoods is the Barri del Carme with its colorful mix of architecture, diverse ethnic groups, trendy shops and outdoor cafes.

Every March, Valencia hosts the Fallas Festival where each neighborhood displays papier-mâché figures of all sizes and colors for a whole week. At the end of the week, the “fallas” are ceremoniously burned, and the communities party into the night. However, March isn’t the only time to party in Valencia. Every night, the city vibrates with lively bars and nightclubs in every neighborhood.

Exceptional tourist attractions , lively festivals and buzzing nightlife all make Seville the top destination in Southern Spain. As the capital city of Andalusia, Seville is also the region’s financial and cultural capital.

Seville is home to many beautiful and important historic landmarks, chief of which is the grand Cathedral of Seville , where it is believed that Christopher Columbus is buried. Other significant buildings include the Real Alcazar , an extravagant Moorish palace with luxurious gardens and a room where Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the New World was planned.

See also: Where to Stay in Seville

The city is also home to the largest wooden structure in the world, the Metropol Parasol, a giant umbrella-shaped structure housing the main market.

As the region’s cultural capital, Seville offers numerous museums, art galleries and entertainment venues. When the sun goes down, the nightlife scene lights up in Seville’s neighborhoods with their bars, nightclubs and flamenco dance halls.

Every year, Seville hosts its April Fair, one of Spain’s most celebrated events, where the city’s streets turn into one giant party involving centuries-old customs, traditional costumes, flamenco dancing, bullfights and plenty of local food and drink.

Spain’s capital and largest city, Madrid, is widely known for its sizzling nightlife scene. Home to a number of universities, the city constitutes a diversity of ethnic groups, making it one of Europe’s most colorful cosmopolitan cities.

Madrid is a beautiful city mixed with old and new architecture. The capital is comprised of several neighborhoods offering their own unique character and attractions ranging from historic quarters to older crowd communities, university areas, multicultural districts and party scenes.

The heart of the city is Puerta del Sol , a large plaza serving as the scene of festivals, important gatherings and street performers as well as a hub for the public transportation network. Another important square is Plaza Mayor , known for its many souvenir shops, cafes and the lively San Miguel Market.

Located within the city center are most of Madrid’s most popular tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace , the residence of Spain’s monarch, and a plethora of glorious churches and historic landmarks. Madrid offers many things to see and do from beautiful parks and zoos to football matches, museums, art galleries and concerts.

3. Mallorca

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, with jagged cliffs, secluded coves, and beautiful beaches lining its shores. Long a popular tourist destination , the island is blessed with a warm and welcoming climate and plenty of incredible scenery.

While its mountainous interior is home to ancient hilltop monasteries and sleepy villages, Mallorca ‘s spectacular coastline is dotted with seaside towns and resorts. Sunbathing, swimming and watersports are all popular pastimes, with delicious local cuisine and seafood on offer wherever you go.

The island’s main city and capital is Palma de Mallorca . There is a beautiful old town for visitors to explore, with winding narrow streets and centuries-old buildings beneath its exquisite Gothic cathedral. The pretty town of Soller is also worth visiting for its scenic, secluded setting, as is the charming mountain village of Valldemossa.

2. Barcelona

Located in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is one of the country’s top travel destinations because it offers everything tourists look for in a European city from historic architecture to lively shopping, vibrant culture and buzzing nightlife.

Ciutat Vella, the Old City, is Barcelona’s main attraction . Here, tourists will find the Gothic Quarter with its beautiful, old churches, Roman ruins and cobblestone streets lined with outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Surrounded by statues and fountains, La Placa Catalunya is a popular gathering spot and hub for local transportation services. Popular activities in Barcelona include strolling along La Rambla , a tree-lined pedestrian avenue, and sunbath on Barceloneta, one of the city’s most popular beaches.

Unique to Barcelona are the architectural marvels of Spain’s famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, which include the Sagrada Familia and the Casa Batllo . Both of these extraordinary structures feature combinations of fascinating designs, shapes and colors.

As a major cultural center, Barcelona boasts a variety of museums , art galleries, theaters and flamenco shows. The city also hosts a number of festivals including the Monegros Desert Festival, one of Spain’s largest electronic music events. With its long love affair with sports, Barcelona is home to the largest football stadium in the world, Nou Camp.

Just outside of the city is one of Barcelona’s most visited sites , Montserrat. Accessed by hiking, train or cable car, Montserrat is the site of secret caves, an underground lake and the Black Madonna.

Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains of southern Spain, Granada is the capital of the Granada province. A mid-sized city, Granada offers a perfect blend of spectacular attractions , traditional cultures and an animated nightlife. But most of all it is the home of the Alhambra , a pinnacle of Moorish art that encapsulates Andalusian history and is one of the great architectural sights of Europe.

Attesting to the city’s eventful history are its most notable landmarks, the 16th century Granada Cathedral with its magnificent domed ceiling, and the famous Alhambra, a grand Moorish palace with luxurious gardens and Arab baths.

Granada’s juxtaposing neighborhoods, Sacromonte and Albaicin , are the essence of the city’s culture. Noted for its Christian abbey, Sacromonte is where tourists come to see how gypsies have traditionally lived in various cave dwellings and to watch live dances of flamenco and zambra.

Albaicin, the Arabic Quarter, is the site of a hundred year-old Spice Market. Here among a setting of Moorish architecture, cobblestone streets and vivid bougainvillea, a medley of vendors sell colorful tapestries, wall hangings and exotic teas and spices.

Just outside the city, the Nevada Ski station offers a wide range of activities for all seasons from snow skiing and sledding to mountain climbing, horse riding and cable car rides.

In the evenings, locals roam from one bar to the next, sampling tapas and drinks before immersing themselves in the city’s entertainment choices.

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Reader interactions.

November 25, 2018 at 10:48 am

Spain is a really a nice country …. The Madrid zoo was fabulous.. The La Rambla in Barcelona was a fun street with lots of shopping places and small restaurants…but the best city in Spain is undoubtedly Seville! Seville is a really beautiful city with big fountains, beautiful churches, nice hotels, little restaurants, small and pleasant streets and beautiful flamenco dancers! I really enjoyed travelling in the tram there…. Most beautiful city I have ever visited!

November 15, 2018 at 1:09 am

I was robbed In Granada. The police were very cooperative. Spain is stunning, in general, the people are so lovely. Now at a villa on the Mediterranean Sea, it is winter .for me it is the sky, surf, sun and sand.

November 13, 2017 at 7:04 pm

Hello, I’m an American. Single woman who will travel alone. I have always loved Spain! I won’t be partying or anything like that, rather I want to see the beautiful cathedrals and historical landmarks. Is it safe to travel by myself taking certain precautions. San Sebastian is definitely on my list and I would love to see some of the smaller cities talked about here on this site.

September 19, 2017 at 7:07 am

I love Spain: specially Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Avila and Seville!

June 25, 2017 at 9:30 am

We just got back from Malaga, Spain….visited the city of Ronda while there…Malaga was beautiful but I found the shopping, and the food/drink was expensive. The City of Ronda was beyond beautiful and enjoyed it immensely. I can’t wait to go back, not sure where I will go next, but it will not be a bustling city…I’m sure Spain has some beautiful small towns that did not make the list that would be lovely to visit.

September 14, 2016 at 3:29 am

I was in Costa Daurada this summer near to Barcelona and it was really gorgeous location. Perfect for families ! We were staying in Salou and enjoy the cultural activities but also many sports activities for my childs, really nice place for holidays

September 10, 2016 at 3:20 am

Hi thanks for the advice. I’m on my way to Malaga soon and would like to tour Spain using the rail service. Any advice on how to get the best deals?

June 14, 2016 at 1:23 am

I loved Spain as a whole in general.If I had to pick the best then order would be Toledo , Seville, Granada, Barcelona,Cordoba,Madrid, Segovia.Loved Toledo n Seville the most.Only visited these places.San Sebastion ,Valencia ,Ibiza ,seville ,mallorca etc.etc. still on the list for next visit.

January 10, 2016 at 2:28 pm

I live in Madrid and I wouldn’t really recommend it for tourists, it’s a nice city and all but I prefer Barcelona with the beach and beautiful buildings and everything, or seville / valencia if you are interested in a city semester.

December 28, 2015 at 5:13 am

I’ve been there last summer, I would also add the city of Ronda to this list, amazing small town with a fantastic scenery.

October 31, 2015 at 5:53 pm

I’ve seen the temperature from Seville you’ve got, and I can completely assure that these are completely fake!! I don’t understand the fahrenheit measures, but we usually have 50-52 degrees in July and august. Or more. So, think about coming Seville in these months. Seville is more beautiful on April or November.

November 2, 2015 at 1:11 am

@Maria, I’ve been to Seville in August, and yes it was extremely warm! However I don’t think it ever gets warmer than 45. Good point though about avoiding Seville in the summer if you prefer milder weather.

August 1, 2015 at 2:05 pm

if I’m to make my own list,Mallorca, Sevilla and Madrid would make the top 3…..about the robbery,that can almost happen every where. Sorry about that and be more watchful next time.

March 4, 2015 at 11:46 am

Nice list. Only seen half of them. I guess it’s top 10 big cities because there are so many smaller cities that are really beautiful, historical and unique. Examples from the South: Cadiz, Ronda, Antequera. I’m not so familiar with all other regions. All parts of the country have their spots. Of the cities om the list personally I enjoy Granada, Sevilla and San Sebastian more than Barcelona but I agree that Barcelona is a must-place to see in so many ways. Also one more vote for Burgos! It’s epic and picturesque and it’s not a small place either, should be on the list. Saludos desde Finlandia!

March 3, 2015 at 8:54 am

Hi, I’m from Spain, I don’t agree with the order of the list. Barcelona is very nice but I don’t think that it’s the best. And my city isn’t in the list, it’s really nice and it’s got a lot of monuments like its cathedral and a great culture. I would like you to add Burgos on the list

June 10, 2014 at 2:01 am

Hi Global Nomads, you are obviously seasoned travelers. I agree, steer clear of places where they rob tourists. I went to Miami once and got robbed…. you can keep the USA, I’m not going back to America after that. Happy traveling .

May 14, 2014 at 8:53 am

I disagree completely with the order of this list. There is NO WAY that Barcelona’s the best place to visit. Galicia, Granada, Sevilla, are much better choices. I agree with Pep. La Alhambra is much more worth seeing than going to Barcelona.

October 1, 2013 at 2:06 pm

Seville and Madrid city center are more beautiful than Barcelona but they don’t spend so much money in hype. The most beautiful building in Spain is “La Alhambra”, Granada. It’s gorgeous. Other nice places: Salamanca, Segovia, Cáceres, Menorca, Altea, and Ronda.

July 28, 2013 at 4:46 pm

Live Spain and ant wait to see at least 4 of the above places, Barcelona was so nice had to go back twice.

June 16, 2013 at 12:57 pm

We tried Alicante, but got robbed in the bus station and did not feel like touring the country any further.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Spain

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Lisa Alexander Updated Aug 31, 2023

Spain is a dream destination for travelers. The grandeur of a caliph's palace, the sun-drenched days spent on Mediterranean beaches, and the stamp of a flamenco dancer's heels. You can find the soul of Spain in tourist experiences like these, which represent the country's rich history, fascinating culture, and enchanting natural beauty.

From the bustling street life of La Rambla in Barcelona and Plaza Mayor in Madrid to the forest of columns and Moorish arches disappearing into the silent expanse of Cordoba's Great Mosque, Spain exudes a vibrant energy and a captivating blend of past and present. And if you get off the main tourist routes and venture into less tourist-oriented towns, you'll be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Plan your sightseeing and find interesting things to do with our list of the top attractions in Spain.

The Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, Granada

Barcelona's sagrada familia and gaudí sites, the great mosque of córdoba (la mezquita), seville cathedral and alcázar, the prado and paseo del artes, madrid, san lorenzo de el escorial, guggenheim museum, bilbao, santiago de compostela cathedral, plaza mayor, madrid, plaza de españa and parque de maría luisa, seville, ciudad de las artes y las ciencias, valencia, beaches of gran canaria, la rambla, barcelona, the costa del sol, el teide, tenerife, toledo's old city, the white towns of andalucía.

No matter how much you have read or how many pictures you have seen of Granada's Alhambra palaces, this Moorish pleasure palace will still take your breath away. The Nasrid dynasty's royal palace is the artistic highlight of Spain's Islamic period, when Al-Andalus - as they called Andalucía - represented the epitome of culture and civilization in medieval Europe.

The Alhambra complex includes several buildings, towers, walls, gardens, and a mosque, but it's the indescribably intricate stone carvings, the delicate filigrees, the magnificent tile-lined ceilings, the graceful arches, and serene courtyards of the Nasrid palace that will haunt your dreams.

That said, the adjoining palace built for the Emperor Charles V, even in its unfinished state is the finest example of High Renaissance architecture in Spain. And Generalife's terraced gardens offer a peaceful respite from the grandeur, and splendid views back at the rest of the Alhambra.

Author's Note: The Alhambra is large, requires a great deal of walking, and takes time to see. Don't plan on a quick visit. Be sure to book tickets well in advance. This is Spain's most visited tourist attraction and tickets sell out weeks in advance during busy times.

Travelers should set aside at least a half day to visit the Alhambra palaces and several days to explore the tourist attractions of Granada . Besides the Alhambra, other highlights of Granada include the UNESCO-listed Albaicín , the medieval Moorish quarter; the 16th-century Capilla Real de Granada (Royal Chapel); and the Sacromonte quarter, where flamenco performances take place in gypsy caves.

Antoni Gaudí took the architectural style known as Art Nouveau a step further, even, some have argued, into absurdity. The fanciful and outrageous buildings he created in Barcelona have become landmarks, the most emblematic tourist attractions of this Catalan city.

Foremost is the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, officially the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família or the Holy Family Church of the Atonement. One of Europe's most unconventional churches, it is also unfinished, so as you look down from its tower, you can see the work in progress below.

You may search in vain for absolute straight lines in Gaudí's Casa Milà , his last and most famous secular work; it resembles a piece of sculpture more than a functional building. Be sure to ascend to its roof – the chimneys are said to have inspired the image of Darth Vader from Star Wars .

The fantastic Casa Batlló, an iconic Gaudí building with mask-shaped balconies and an undulating façade, presents Magic Nights outdoor concerts on the building's rooftop terrace.

Parc Güell overlooks the city from a hillside, the views and gardens framed by fantastical creatures – salamanders, fish, an octopus – and designs in bright ceramic-chard mosaics. A fanciful towered house near the entrance is largely covered with colorful ceramic pieces.

Gaudí's monuments appeal even to children and to adults who don't care a thing about architecture, for one simple reason: they are just plain fun to look at.

Once the principal mosque of western Islam and still known as La Mezquita, Córdoba's Great Mosque is one of the largest in the world and the finest achievement of Moorish architecture in Spain.

In spite of later alterations that carved out its center to build a Catholic cathedral at its heart, the Great Mosque ranks with the Alhambra in Granada as one of the two most splendid examples of Islamic art and architecture in western Europe.

Building materials from Roman and Visigothic buildings were used in the construction, which began in 785, and by 1000, it had grown to its present dimensions, its prayer hall with no fewer than nineteen aisles. No matter where you stand or in which direction you look, its rows of columns and rounded Moorish arches line up in symmetrical patterns.

La Mezquita is found in the city center, close to many major attractions in Cordoba . Stroll down to the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) and the Puerta del Puente , or find a place to eat along the riverfront.

Some of the other highlights include the flower-bedecked patios in the Judería (old Jewish quarter) near the Great Mosque; the Palacio de Viana , a 15th-century aristocratic palace; and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , the former Caliphal Palace that Catholic king Fernando III took over in the 13th century. Narrow, winding streets; small squares; and low whitewashed houses fill the Judería, lending a Moorish atmosphere inherited from its past.

You can't miss the Seville Cathedral. This enormous structure is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and dominates the city center.

The Catedral de Sevilla , the La Giralda tower, and the Alcázar combine to form a UNESCO World Heritage Site . These three exceptional historic landmarks are the top tourist attractions of Seville .

While you can appreciate the cathedral from the outside, you need to step inside and walk beside the massive columns to really get a sense of the size. The Cathedral of Seville has more interior space than St. Peter's in Rome. The 37-meter main altar consists of carved statues completely covered in gold. The monumental tomb of Christopher Columbus is held aloft by a quartet of larger-than-life figures.

A masterpiece of Almohad architecture, La Giralda began life as a minaret and is all that's left of the city's Great Mosque, destroyed to build the cathedral.

The Alcázar opposite the cathedral was begun by the Moors in 712 and redesigned after the Christian Reconquest by Pedro I in ornate Mudéjar style (blending Gothic and Muslim architectural elements). The rooms and salons are breathtaking, with fanciful embellishments such as intricate tiled walls and patterned ceilings.

Shaded by fragrant orange and lemon trees, the dreamy Alcázar gardens were pictured in the Game of Thrones series. Fans of this show may recognize the fountains from the Kingdom of Dorne's Water Gardens.

Bordering the Alcázar on the east is the Barrio de Santa Cruz , the former Judería (Jewish quarter), a neighborhood of whitewashed homes, iron balconies, and flower-filled courtyards.

One of the top tourist attractions in Madrid , the Prado alone ranks with the world's top art museums for the riches of its collections. But add the Reina Sofía National Art Museum , the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, and the CaixaForum , all along Madrid's mile-long, tree-shaded boulevard, and you have what may be the world's highest concentration of priceless art treasures. It's no wonder this is known as El Paseo del Arte, Boulevard of the Arts.

The Prado has the world's largest collection of Spanish art, an impressive continuum from 12th-century medieval works through the avant-garde movement of the early 20th century, and is especially noted for its works from Spain's golden age by El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya.

But its riches are not all Spanish; other highlights are the medieval murals and retablos, paintings by Flemish and Dutch artists (be sure to see the fantasy world of Hieronymus Bosch and works by Rubens and Brueghel), and Italian art (Botticelli, Raphael, Correggio, Titian, and Tintoretto).

Highlights of the Museo Reina Sofía's impressive 20,000-piece collection are Picasso's Guernica and works by Miró, Dalí, Dubuffet, Braque, Serra, Calder, and Magritte.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial, about 45 kilometers northwest of Madrid, was the summer home of Spain's kings, and in 1563, work was begun here on a huge complex, which would include a monastery, church, royal palace, mausoleum, library, and museum, all conceived as a monument to Philip II and his reign.

The result is a staggering collection of attractions, built around 16 courtyards, its rooms and structures connected by 16 kilometers of corridors. At its core is the church, the highlight of which is Herrera's 30-meter-high retablo, made of jasper and red marble and approached by a flight of 17 steps.

Along with the vaulted and frescoed ceilings by Tibaldi in the rooms off the lower cloister, highlights of the monastery are the Panteón de los Reyes (the Baroque burial vault of the Spanish kings) and the library , a grand room also adorned with Tibaldi frescoes .

In the palace, be sure to see the Bourbon Suite, where the state apartments of Charles IV are decorated with rare furnishings and 338 tapestries. Beyond are the art-filled private apartments of Philip II. The Picture Gallery below has a large collection of fine paintings, including works by Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, Velázquez, and El Greco.

Official site: https://el-escorial.com

You really have to see this building to believe it - no photograph has ever done justice to this symphony of shapes, so alive that they seem ready to take wing. American architect Frank Gehry used blocks of limestone and undulating sheets of titanium to turn the notion of modern architecture on its ear.

So thoroughly did he succeed that two new terms were born from it: "The Bilbao Effect" - the ability of a city to turn its fortunes around by constructing a single world-class building - and "architourism," a whole segment of the travel industry revolving around landmarks of contemporary architecture.

Inside the 24,000-square-meter galleries of the museum are temporary exhibitions and rotating displays of its own collections of modern art. Highlights include works by Anselm Kiefer, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Andy Warhol.

Besides the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao has other interesting cultural attractions : the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao (Museum of Fine Arts), the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the gourmet dining scene. Bilbao is renowned for its Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants, including Nerua in the Guggenheim Museum; Ola Martín Berasategui, which serves contemporary Spanish cuisine based on fresh market ingredients; and Atelier Etxanobe, which offers creative haute cuisine.

The magnificent cathedral of Santiago (St. James) in Santiago de Compostela was built to house and honor the relics of the saint, and it has been the ultimate destination of pilgrims since the Middle Ages. (Today, the historic town of Santiago de Compostela still draws modern-day pilgrims and also is a top travel destination in the Galicia region of Northern Spain ).

One of the outstanding monuments of Early Romanesque architecture, the cathedral was built between 1060 and 1211, and despite the Baroque transformation of the exterior in the 16th to 18th centuries, the interior is still in the purest Early Romanesque style.

You'll see both of these periods at play as you enter the west front, through one of Spain's most impressive church facades. Step inside to face the Pórtico de la Gloria , part of the old west front now concealed by the 18th-century facade. This triple doorway is one of the largest and most magnificent collections of Romanesque sculpture in the world.

The focal point of the interior is the elaborately decorated Capilla Mayor , built over the Apostle's tomb. In the center of the high altar of jasper, alabaster, and silver is a 13th-century wooden figure of the Apostle, richly adorned in precious metals and gems.

On either side, narrow staircases lead up behind the figure so that pilgrims can kiss the Apostle's cloak - culminating their pilgrimage. In a crypt under the altar, the Apostle's remains are in a silver casket.

The throbbing heartbeat of Spain's vibrant capital city, Plaza Mayor has played an important part in Madrid's everyday life since the 16th century, when Philip II entrusted the task of designing it to his favorite architect Juan de Herrera, builder of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Today one of the top cultural attractions of Madrid, the Plaza Mayor has for centuries served as the stage for ceremonial events – the proclamation of a new king, the canonization of saints, the burning of heretics – and public entertainment such as chivalric tournaments and bullfights.

The cafés spilling out onto the plaza's pedestrian-only stone pavement, and the restaurants shaded under its arcades are Madrid's living room, popular meeting places for Madrileños and tourists alike.

As the center of Madrid's social life, the area around the Plaza Mayor is one of the best places to stay in Madrid.

Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 to celebrate the various regions of Spain, the Plaza de España is an impressive semi-circular pavilion surrounded by colonnades. Beautiful panels of colorful decorative tiles representing each of Spain's provinces are set overlooking the long pool, which is crossed by bridges. It's a popular place to visit for a stroll or to row a rental boat around the pool and under the bridges.

The Plaza de España is the focal point of the vast Parque de María Luisa, a half mile of gardens, lawns, and shaded walks stretching alongside the river opposite central Seville. You can rent a pedal car or ride though in a horse-drawn carriage. Busy any day, on Sundays the park overflows with families.

The best way to see the giant trees, flower beds, pools, gazebos, and the man-made rock mountain with a waterfall is to stroll through the park, following the side paths into hedge-surrounded gardens. At the far end of the park, you'll find a small but rich archeology museum with Visigoth jeweled crosses and ancient gold work.

When Valencia diverted the course of the river that had repeatedly flooded the city, it was left with a broad, flat riverbed spanned by bridges. It was upon this clean palette that the brilliant Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava created a breathtaking ensemble of structures that have become a magnet for aficionados of contemporary architecture.

Not only the buildings, but the museums, arts venues, and aquarium (by Félix Candela and the only building not designed by Calatrava) form a series of tourist attractions in Valencia that rank among Spain's most popular.

Europe's largest oceanographic aquarium, L'Oceanogràfic, was built in the shape of a water lily with buildings dedicated to different aquatic environments from the tropics to the poles.

The largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is best known for the golden-sand beaches that line most of its southern coast. Playa de Las Canteras is in the capital city of Las Palmas, popular with families for its calm waters, protected by a natural breakwater of volcanic rock.

The largest beach, and the liveliest, is the Playa del Inglés at Maspalomas, which abounds with cafés, restaurants, shops, play parks, and other amusements. At one end is one of the archipelago's natural wonders, a vast protected area of gigantic sand dunes. These reach as high as 12 meters and are constantly shifting as they are shaped by the wind and the sea. To complete the desert illusion, you can ride through this desolate and other-worldly landscape on a camel.

The water is relatively warm on this coast, and so clear that it's popular with divers. There's an underwater park at Arinaga and diving schools at Playa del Inglés and several other places along the coast. Or you can see the fish and other sea life from a cruise on a glass-bottomed boat. The south coast is also popular for windsurfing and sailing.

Read More: Top Things to Do on Gran Canaria

Strolling along La Rambla on a summer evening, you might think that every single one of Barcelona's inhabitants was there with you. It's definitely the place to be after work on a summer evening or on a weekend. This tree-lined boulevard cuts a green line - not a very straight one - through the city center, stretching northwest from the Columbus Memorial near the port.

The section to the Plaça de Catalunya is lined with plane trees, its wide pedestrian zone flanked by a narrow road on each side. Along with its flower and bird markets, La Rambla has a number of book and newspaper stands, as well as restaurants and cafés with open-air tables. Pavement artists, street musicians, living statues, and impromptu performers all add to its lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of La Rambla is the Mercat de la Boqueria (91 Rambla), a traditional covered marketplace that sells fresh produce, meat, fish, bread, cheese, and other specialty foods. Locals come here to shop for ingredients to prepare home-cooked meals. Tourists will appreciate the chance to sample regional delicacies served at the market's tapas bars.

Long a destination for sun-starved northern Europeans, the Costa del Sol is a seemingly unending stretch of beaches and cities along Spain's southwestern Mediterranean coastline. The summer weather here is exceptional, with long, hot days, and steamy fun-filled nights.

Must-see cities along this stretch include the glitzy and glamourous Marbella with its famous harbor chock full of luxury yachts, and Malaga , with its restored downtown and the stunning Alcazaba perched on the hilltop. If you prefer something a bit smaller, check out the small-town charms of Neerja.

Fun cities aside, it's the beaches that are the major draw here. The soft, golden sand lapped by azure waters makes it almost impossible not to go swimming. In fact, the Costa del Sol is home to many of Spain's best beaches , each with their own special vibe.

One of the highlights of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has many attractions . But El Teide is what makes the island truly special.

The highest peak in Spain, this ancient - but still simmering - volcano is also one of Europe's top natural wonders. The Pico del Teide and the Caldera de las Cañadas, a gigantic volcanic crater, together form the Parque Nacional del Teide , at the center of the island of Tenerife. In listing the park in 2007, UNESCO cited its natural beauty and "its importance in providing evidence of the geological processes that underpin the evolution of oceanic islands."

You can explore El Teide in several ways. You can drive or hike across the inside of the caldera - the crater floor - 12 miles in diameter and a barren moonscape of colored rock formations that's like driving into the center of the earth. You can climb El Teide's cone, but an easier way to get close to the top is by an eight-minute cable car ride . On a clear day, views cover the entire archipelago and can extend to North Africa - the nearest land mass to the Canary Islands.

Read More: Best Beaches on Tenerife

Toledo is a fantastic city to wander around and get lost in its narrow streets. The layout of the town, with its irregular pattern of streets and numerous blind alleys, reflects its Moorish past, and the architecture of the Christian period is represented by the numerous churches, convents, and hospices. This makes the Casco Histórico (Old Town) a kind of open-air museum, illustrating the history of Spain, and it has been listed by UNESCO as part of mankind's cultural heritage.

Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture mingle and blend into a city that El Greco captured in one of his most famous paintings. High on a granite hill and surrounded on three sides by the deep gorge of the Tagus River, the medieval city of Toledo presents a stunning profile; approaching it from below is an unforgettable sight.

With its richly decorated interior, the splendid Gothic Catedral de Toledo is one of Toledo's top tourist attractions , and the two synagogues in the atmospheric old Judería (Jewish quarter) are ornate in the Moorish style. While in the Judería, be sure to see the church of Santo Tomé for its El Greco masterpiece.

You can easily visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid (just an hour away by train), but it's also a nice place to spend a night, so you can linger later into the day and soak up the atmosphere in the evening.

Poised like dabs of white frosting atop the steep crags of southern Andalucía, the White Towns (Pueblos Blancos) are not just beautiful, they speak of this region's long and fascinating history. West of Gibraltar, mountains rise straight from the sea, and among them hide these hilltop whitewashed towns.

Most spectacular is Arcos de la Frontera , whose plaza beside the Gothic church ends vertiginously in a 137-meter cliff, affording views across a valley of olive, orange, and almond orchards. Its maze of winding cobbled streets lead past cafes and craft shops selling ceramics and pottery to a Moorish castle.

A total of 19 of these villages of small white houses are in the area around the Grazalema Nature Reserve. Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra are two others worth seeing. A good base in the region is Jerez de la Frontera , home of flamenco and Andalucian thoroughbreds. Watch these horses' precision ballet at the Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art, and for authentic flamenco, visit Centro Cultural Flamenco .

One of the most photographed towns is Setenil de las Bodegas , where many of the buildings are built into or beneath the rock walls.

• Read More: Top Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) of Andalusia

Ibiza is well known the world over as a place to come to have a good time in the sun. Blessed with exceptional beaches and lively towns, the island has been attracting a youthful set for decades. During the day Ibiza's beaches are packed with people enjoying the sun and surf, and at night certain areas are entertainment hotspots where DJs spin the latest tunes.

However, what many people don't know is that Ibiza is also a great place to soak up some history. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets into the UNESCO-listed old quarter of Dalt Vila where you'll find a surprising number of well-preserved Gothic Catalan buildings. Up above it all is the fortress, offering stunning views.

If you up for a bit of adventure away from the crowds, head to the tranquil coves of Portinatx. Lay your towel out on the soft sand and enjoy the peace and quiet.

The ancient city of Ronda is one of the highlights of a visit to Spain's Andalucia region. Perched impossibly on a rocky outcrop complete with a historical bridge and well-preserved old town, this city just begs to be photographed.

Ronda is exceptionally easy to walk around, many of the major sights are a short stroll from one another including the Puente Nuevo bridge over the 100-meter-deep Tajo de Ronda gorge, the Plazas de Toros bullring, and La Cuidad, the old Moorish town center.

Spend a day wandering the sights and then settling into a prime patio seat on the Plaza del Socorro. Fans of Ernst Hemingway may recognize certain areas from his book For Whom the Bell Tolls.

More on Spain

The Best Places to Visit in Spain | Top Spain Destinations

Spain, a country as diverse as it is beautiful, offers a treasure trove of travel experiences for every type of adventurer. From vibrant cities to charming villages, from historic landmarks to natural wonders, Spain boasts an array of breathtaking destinations that will leave you spellbound. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Spain, including cities, cultural gems, and scenic wonders, ensuring your trip to Spain is an unforgettable adventure.

So, let’s embark on a virtual tour of the best cities in Spain!

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Barcelona – The City of Gaudi’s Dreams

Madrid – the heartbeat of spain, seville – the jewel of andalusia, granada – the alhambra’s mystique, valencia – a mix of modernity and tradition, cordoba – a glimpse of spain’s past, bilbao – the basque gem, salamanca – a university town’s elegance, toledo – the imperial city, san sebastian – a gastronomic delight, malaga – the gateway to the costa del sol, ibiza – the party island, santiago de compostela – the pilgrim’s destination, ronda – the bridge to andalusia, the best cities to visit in spain.

When it comes to the best cities to visit in Spain, Barcelona is often at the top of the list. This bustling metropolis along the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula is known for its captivating architecture, particularly the iconic Sagrada Familia designed by the genius architect Antoni Gaudí. Explore the enchanting Gothic Quarter , stroll down the vibrant La Rambla , and savour delicious tapas in the Barri Gòtic . Barcelona’s unique blend of culture, history, and beachfront beauty will make your trip to Spain truly unforgettable.

If you are a foodie, you have to try the famous Spanish Paella in Barcelona, which is one of the Best Street Food in Europe . You can also try out other local specialities at some of the best restaurants in Barcelona, as suggested in this Barcelona Food Guide.

As the capital of Spain, Madrid is a must-see destination for travellers seeking a blend of history, culture, and contemporary flair. Visit the Royal Palace , immerse yourself in the world-class Prado Museum , and savour the energy of Puerta del Sol, as you spend a Weekend in Madrid . Don’t miss the chance to experience authentic Spanish cuisine in the city’s numerous tapas bars and restaurants. Madrid’s lively atmosphere and rich heritage make it a top choice among Spain destinations.

Seville, nestled in the heart of Andalusia, offers a glimpse into Spain’s passionate soul. Explore the breathtaking Alcázar of Seville , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the towering Giralda Bell Tower . Take a leisurely stroll along the winding streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood and enjoy a traditional flamenco performance – one of the top Bucket List Experiences in Spain . Seville’s beauty and charm will make your trip to Spain an unforgettable experience.

For a taste of Spain’s Moorish history, head to Granada, where you’ll find the stunning Alhambra Palace . This architectural marvel is a testament to the region’s rich past and offers breathtaking views of the city of Granada. Wander through the Generalife Gardens and lose yourself in the intricate Nasrid Palaces . Granada is one of the top places to see in Spain for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Valencia, on the Mediterranean coast, seamlessly blends contemporary architecture with centuries-old traditions. Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, savour one of the Best Street Foods in Europe – the world-famous Valencian paella , and stroll through the historic Old Town. Valencia’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning beaches make it a fantastic addition to any Spain tour.

Cordoba, once the capital of Islamic Spain, is a city of historical significance. The Mezquita , a mosque turned cathedral, is a prime example of its rich cultural heritage. Wander through the charming Jewish Quarter’s narrow streets and explore the serene Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos . Cordoba’s historical treasures and authentic Andalusian atmosphere are not to be missed.

In the north of Spain, Bilbao stands as a testament to urban revitalisation. This dynamic city is home to the Guggenheim Museum , a contemporary architectural masterpiece that houses an impressive collection of modern art. Explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town) , enjoy pintxos (Basque tapas ), and take in the stunning views from the Artxanda Funicular . Bilbao is a unique and compelling addition to your list of Spain destinations.

Salamanca, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities , is a city steeped in academic and architectural beauty. Explore the stunning Plaza Mayor, visit the historic University of Salamanca , and take a walk through the charming streets of the Old Town. The golden sandstone buildings and vibrant cultural scene make Salamanca a true gem.

Toledo, often referred to as the “ Imperial City ,” is a place where history comes alive. This UNESCO World Heritage city boasts a stunning medieval old town, a breathtaking cathedral, and the historic Alcázar fortress. Wander through its labyrinthine streets, and you’ll feel transported back in time.

San Sebastian, in the Basque Country, is a food lover’s paradise. This coastal city is renowned for its pintxos (Basque tapas), with bars serving up an array of delicious small bites. Enjoy the picturesque La Concha Beach, explore the Old Town, try out some of Europe’s Best Street Foods and indulge in Michelin-starred dining experiences.

Malaga, located on the Costa del Sol , is a city of sunshine and culture. Visit the Picasso Museum, stroll along the palm-lined promenade, and explore the Moorish Alcazaba fortress. Malaga is a great starting point for exploring the beautiful coastal towns of the Costa del Sol . A Weekend in Costa Del Sol , is all you need to soak in the sunny side of life.

Ibiza is known worldwide for its vibrant nightlife, but it offers much more than just parties. Discover the island’s stunning beaches, visit the historic Dalt Vila (Old Town) , and explore tranquil villages. Ibiza is a diverse destination with something for everyone.

Santiago de Compostela is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route . The city is known for its magnificent cathedral, which houses the shrine of Saint James . Pilgrims and travellers alike are drawn to its spiritual and historical significance.

Ronda, perched atop a dramatic gorge, is one of Spain’s most picturesque cities . Visit the awe-inspiring Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) , explore the historic bullring, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Ronda is a hidden gem in the heart of Andalusia , and is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Spain, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring the architectural wonders of Barcelona or savouring the flavours of Valencia, each city has its unique charm and offers unique experiences. Plan your trip to Spain and discover the magic of these incredible places to see in Spain. From bustling cities to serene historical sites, Spain has something for every traveller’s taste, ensuring your journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Don’t wait any longer – start planning your Spain tour today and discover the Best places to visit in Spain for yourself!

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Think of Barcelona’s architecture and what pops into your head? It’s probably going to be Antoní Gaudí. But Gaudí wasn’t the only architect responsible for Barcelona’s flamboyant good looks. There’s also Lluis Domenéch i Montaner…

So, if you’re visiting Barcelona, make sure Palau de la Música Catalana is on your to-do list. When we first laid eyes on it, we were mesmerised by its beauty and colour. It’s so good we’ve visited on twice, on different visits to Barcelona.

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30 Best Things to Do in Spain + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | 30 Best Things to Do in Spain + MAP

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Spain is a country rich in history, culture, gastronomy, and beautiful landscapes. There are so many things to do in Spain , from visiting its small towns and wonderful beaches to exploring its vivid cities and landmarks.

If you want to know which tourist attractions in Spain you can’t miss, I’ll share the 30 best places and activities in this guide. Not all of them are so well known, but I can assure you that they’ll leave you speechless.

So, are you ready to discover the best places to visit in Spain ?

1. Alhambra of Granada, one of the best places to visit in Spain

Andalusia has a rich Muslim history that’s still present today, which has resulted in some of the best architecture in Spain . The best example of this is the Alhambra in Granada , one of the most famous places in Spain .

This palatial fortress is comprised of a series of Nasrid palaces adorned with white marble columns and muqarnas, which once housed sultans. Moreover, from here, you can see the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the entire city of Granada. Without a doubt, it’s a must-see in Spain , and my favorite part is the Generalife gardens and fountain. If you plan a trip to Southern Spain , you must visit it.

The Alhambra is wildly popular, so if you want full access to the Nasrid palaces, the Alcazaba, the Generalife gardens, and the Partal, I recommend buying your ticket months in advance ; especially during peak season when same-day tickets are impossible to get.

• Recommended accommodation : Hotel Casa Morisca , in the historic neighborhood of Albayzin, at the foot of the Alhambra, is the best option. You’ll have impressive views of the Alhambra and the Generalife, and easy access to the palaces .

2. Visit Seville, one of the best things to do in Spain

Seville is one of the best cities to visit in Spain . I recommend spending at least two days here so you can enjoy everything that Seville has to offer. For example, you’ll love La Giralda, a majestic, 800-year-old Almohad tower that crowns the city’s Cathedral.

Furthermore, the Plaza de España is one of the most iconic points of interest in Spain . Dating back to 1929, it was designed by architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exhibition. You should also walk through the labyrinthine streets of the old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, visit the Alcázar Gardens, and try some local tapas.

Seville is known as the birthplace of flamenco , and, as probably you already know, watching a flamenco show is one of the best activities in Spain . This Triana tablao flamenco show is, no doubt, the best way to experience this part of the Spanish culture, so make sure you book some time for this activity.

As you can see, there is a lot to do in Seville, so I recommend booking tickets to the Cathedral and La Giralda in advance . You may also like this river cruise along the Guadalquivir River, which goes past the Torre del Oro and Triana Bridge.

• Recommended accommodation : The Meliá Lebreros is located just 0.2 miles from the train station, 0.1 miles from the Nervión metro stop, and a few minutes’ walk from the city center .

3. Timanfaya National Park, a beautiful place in Spain you should see

With its gorgeous scenery, Timanfaya National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote .

Walking among the volcanic landscape is like landing on the moon; the geomorphological structures formed from the eruptions of 1730, 1736, and 1824, resulting in one of the top tourist attractions in Spain . Moreover, the combination of red, orange, ochre, and black tones contrast brilliantly against the radiant blue sky. No doubt why this is one of the most popular national parks in Spain.

To see everything that this national park has to offer, I recommend this 1-day tour , which includes admission to the park. It’s an adventurous thing to do in Spain , and you’ll also see La Geria, El Golfo, Charco de Los Clicos, and many other places.

• Recommended accommodation : I definitely recommend the Hotelito del Golfo since it’s the only hotel in the natural park and one of the best places to stay in Lanzarote .

4. Hanging Houses of Cuenca, another famous place in Spain

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca , also known as the King’s Houses, are a series of homes built into a rocky ledge. The houses have large balconies overlooking the Huécar river gorge, making it one of the coolest places in Spain .

The best way to see this historic site in Spain is on a free walking tour with a local guide (it’s in Spanish). Moreover, if you have time, you can visit the Enchanted City and the Cuervo River , two natural wonders in Spain ’s Cuenca province.

• Recommended accommodation : I highly recommend the world-renowned Parador de Cuenca , considered one of the most beautiful paradores in Spain . You’ll have spectacular views since it hangs off the cliff, right in front of the Hanging Houses .

5. See the architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona

If there is a Spanish landmark you must see during your trip, it’s the Sagrada Familia . This famous church in Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí’s modernist masterpiece and an example of the best architecture in Spain .

The cathedral has been under construction for over 100 years, yet it remains one of the top places of interest in Barcelona and all of Spain. The line to get in can last for hours, but it’s well worth going inside, so I recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

While you’re in Barcelona, be sure to check out another Gaudí masterpiece: Park Güell . Another must-see in Spain , this huge architectural garden is full of native flora, undulating pathways, and colorful mosaics. If you want to avoid the line to get in, purchase this ticket in advance, or book this free guided tour with an expert who will tell you all about this World Heritage Site.

Finally, Barcelona is one of the best cities in Spain and has so much to offer, so you can also do this free tour to see some other important monuments in the historic city center. If you prefer to explore on your own, we have a complete guide on things to do in Barcelona .

• Recommended accommodation : The Ayre Hotel Rosellón is right in front of the Sagrada Familia, and you can see it from the hotel’s rooftop terrace, so I plan to stay there during my next trip. Another high-quality accommodation in the city is the W Barcelona , which boasts spectacular views of the sea .

6. Prado Museum & El Retiro Park, Madrid

As we continue this list of things to do in Spain , we move to the capital city of Madrid. In our guide on things to do in Madrid , you will find that this city has it all: recreation, great food, culture, and incredible museums. In fact, the Prado Museum in Madrid is Spain’s most popular museum, with three million annual visitors.

Not only is it one of the most recognized museums in the world, but the Prado also has famous works like Goya’s Black Paintings and Velázquez’s Las Meninas , and loads of galleries that you can get lost in. The museum often has long lines, so I recommend getting your ticket in advance. Also, if you want to dedicate your day to the arts, be sure to check out the Reina Sofía Museum , which is just a few minutes’ walk away.

That said, the Prado Museum is right next to El Retiro Park , another top attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This World Heritage Site is one of the largest parks in Madrid and once belonged to the Spanish monarchy. As such, it’s a lovely place with a big lake, lush gardens, historic monuments like the Alfonso XII Monument, the Fountain of the Fallen Angel, and the Crystal Palace. Without a doubt, this whimsical park is one of the best places to visit in Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is in Madrid’s Art Triangle, close to the Prado, El Retiro, Reina Sofía, the Thyssen Museum, and the Barrio de las Letras .

7. Aqueduct of Segovia, a historical Spanish landmark you can’t miss

The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most important historical sites in Spain and an impressive feat of Roman engineering. Its construction dates back to the beginning of the 2 nd century, to transport water from the Sierra mountains to Segovia (although the legends attribute this to the devil himself).

In addition to the aqueduct, Segovia is a beautiful city with some of the best sightseeing in Spain . During your time here, I recommend taking this guided tour of the Segovia Cathedral and eating a roasted suckling pig at the Mesón de Cándido, a restaurant located beneath the aqueduct.

• Recommended accommodation : The Real Segovia by Recordis Hotels is in the heart of the city, at the Plaza de las Sirenas, and is the best place you can stay in Segovia .

8. See the Lakes of Covadonga & Picos de Europa, a cool thing to do in Spain

Next, we go further north to the Lakes of Covadonga and the Picos de Europa , two beautiful places in Spain that you must visit at least once in your life.

Covadonga was the first capital of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias and is one of the most charming places in Spain , thanks to its religious sanctuary. From there, you can make the ascent towards the Lakes of Covadonga, which offer impressive views of the expansive landscape and, of course, a few Asturian cows along the way.

If you don’t want to drive to the lakes on your own, you can take this excursion from Cangas de Onís, which will take you past the Picos de Europa National Park , one of Spain’s wildest natural treasures.

• Recommended accommodation : The Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo , with views of Covadonga Cathedral, is a lovely hotel where you can go hiking, cycling, and canoeing .

9. Molinos de la Mancha, another popular place to visit in Spain

If you like literature, surely you know Don Quixote . That means you’ll love visiting the famous Molinos de la Mancha , another cultural point of interest in Spain .

There are a few ways to get there, but I recommend the Molinos de Consuegra so you can see these charming 19 th -century windmills. Not only are these striking white windmills a beautiful addition to the Spanish countryside, but they’re a wonderful reminder of the pivotal works by Cervantes.

• Recommended accommodation : El Patio de los Jazmines is a lovely rural hotel recognized by the government’s Junta de Castilla-La Mancha and is perfect for getting lost among the old mills in the countryside .

10. Teide National Park, Tenerife, an incredible attraction in Spain’s Canary Islands

Teide National Park is another must-see in Spain since it has the highest peak in all the Canary Islands, and all of Spain.

It has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can bet that it offers some of the best views in Spain . We have a guide on how to climb Mount Teide , so if you’d like to do the climb but have doubts, be sure to read it. My suggestion is to take the cable car , then climb the 12,200 feet to the crater summit.

If you prefer to do the climb with a guide, check out one of the best Teide tours . In any case, I think it’s an incredible thing to do in Spain that you should do!

• Recommended accommodation : The Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide , located over 6,500 feet above sea level, offers magnificent views of Mount Teide and the arid volcanic surroundings. It’s the perfect place to start (or end) your day in Teide National Park .

11. Visit the Roman Theater of Mérida, an unforgettable activity in Spain

Another great work left by the Romans is the Roman Theater of Mérida . Its construction was ordered by Agrippa, son-in-law of Augustus, between 16 and 15 B.C., and today, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Spain .

Over its 2,000 years of existence, the theater has become the architectural ruins that you’ll see today. Even so, it’s one of the most magnificent parts of the Archaeological Ensemble of Mérida and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Hispania and visit the Roman Theater and other ruins like the Moorish Alcazaba citadel, the Morerías Archaeological Zone, the Casa del Amphitheater, and the Roman Amphitheatre, I recommend this combined pass with a guide .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Ilunion Mérida Palace is a restored 15th-century palace in the Plaza de España with a terrace pool and great views of the city .

12. Burgos Cathedral, another breathtaking place to visit in Spain

The Burgos Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful churches in the country, so it’s a must-see in Spain .

Its construction began 800 years ago, in 1221, following the French Gothic style. Throughout history, it has undergone various restoration efforts that have kept it alive and given it some unique design details. Two standout features are the two exterior towers and the splendid Gothic-Plateresque dome. Inside, you can’t miss the Altarpiece, the Constable’s Chapel, and the Golden Staircase.

 If you want to discover all the secrets of this architectural marvel, I recommend taking this guided tour of the cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Crisol Mesón del Cid is one of the best hotels in Burgos, with a central location that makes it easy to explore the narrow historic streets .

13. See the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, an enjoyable thing to do in Spain with kids

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a cultural and entertainment complex and one of the best tourist attractions in Spain .

The complex was designed by the famous architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela and houses some of the best activities in Spain that you can do as a family. Among them are L’Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe; L’Hemisfèric, a planetarium and the largest laser projection room in Spain; and a three-story science museum. If you get the full ticket , you’ll gain access to all the interactive exhibits and gallery spaces, so it’s worth it.

• Recommended accommodation : The Ilunion Aqua 4 is in front of the City of Arts and Sciences and has a 9 th -floor Michelin star restaurant with panoramic views .

14. Great Mosque of Córdoba, one of the most famous attractions in Spain

The Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the most historic landmarks in Spain and a monument you must see to believe. Don’t be fooled by the name; it’s officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.

Along with the Alhambra, the Mosque of Córdoba is the most important monument of Andalusian architecture. It was declared a Site of Cultural Interest as part of Córdoba’s historic center and, in 2007, was selected by the public as one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. Moreover, it was awarded in a TripAdvisor contest as the best tourist destination in Europe and number six in the world.

As you can see, visiting the Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the top things to do in Spain , and you can soak up all its history on this guided tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hesperia Córdoba is on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, granting you lovely views of the Mosque and the medieval Alcazar fortress .

15. Wall of Ávila, another Spanish landmark you must see

It’s impossible to visit Ávila and not see the majestic Wall of Ávila . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important monuments in Spain that you should see at least once.

The wall has a perimeter of 1.5 miles and covers an area of 81.5 acres. Its 88 medieval towers reach a height of nearly 40 feet, making it one of the most incredible attractions in Spain . This impressive wall was completed between the 11 th and 14 th centuries and they’re the most complete fortifications in the country. Also, the wall’s nine gates were finished at different times, so they each reflect a different style.

It’s worth seeing this marvel, and you can learn more about it and other monuments in Ávila’s historic center on this free tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Palacio de la Velada is an impressive 16th-century palace with luxurious rooms, and it’s right in front of the Ávila Cathedral. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves typical food from the region .

16. Balearic Islands, an unforgettable place to visit in Spain with friends

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in Spain in summer , the Balearic Islands are one of your best options. These islands are comprised of Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera, Ibiza, and Formentera; and other islets, such as Dragonera, Conejera or S’Espalmador.

The Balearic Islands have some of the most beautiful landscapes and beaches in Spain. There’s a reason why it’s the third most-visited autonomous community in Spain, attracting both national and international tourists.

The most populous city here is the capital of Palma de Mallorca . If you go here, I suggest taking this free tour to learn more about its history. Also, this dolphin-watching tour in Palma de Mallorca is one of the best things to do in Spain with family .

Another island I recommend you see is Menorca , which is known for its lovely beaches, coves, and remains of the Talayotic Culture. Take a walk around the citadel, visit Mount Toro and the Mola Fortress, go to Mahón, or take a boat ride to discover the best coves.

Finally, Ibiza is known for its party atmosphere, but it has much more than that, so I’ll tell you all about that later .

17. Go to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, something to do in Spain if it rains

Going to Bilbao is one of the best things to do in northern Spain , and it has one of the coolest cultural attractions, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao .

Inaugurated in 1997, the museum is guarded by the Puppy , an impressive floral dog sculpture created by artist Jeff Koons. As for the design of the building, it’s the work of architect Frank Gehry and is one of the most representative examples of the avant-garde aesthetic of the 20 th century.

If you can, check out the museum at sunset when the play of light on the structure is beautiful. Inside, you’ll find 258,000ft² of space, 113,000 of which are intended for exhibitions. There are collections from local artists like Eduardo Chillida and international artists such as Mark Rothko and Yoko Ono . The museum also has a rotating roster of exhibits ranging from Chinese and Russian art to paintings and sculptures.

It’s best to buy tickets online since they’re cheaper and you’ll avoid unnecessary lines. Also, since you’ll be in Bilbao, take this free tour to learn all about this great historic center and attractions like the Arriaga Theatre, the Begoña Stairs, and the Santiago Cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Carlton in Bilbao’s famous Plaza de Don Federico Moyúa is less than a 10-minute walk from the museum .

18. Toledo, one of the best cities to visit in Spain

Toledo is known as the City of Three Cultures and is another beautiful place to visit in Spain .

My number-one piece of advice is to not leave this city without seeing the Cathedral of Toledo , one of the most impressive churches in the world. It’s also worth visiting the Mirador del Valle, especially at sunset; the Alcantara Bridge; and the Monastery of San Juan, which is over 500 years old.

If you’d like to visit this city from top to bottom, I suggest getting the Toledo Card , which grants you skip-the-line admission to several monuments and a guided tour of the Cathedral .

• Recommended accommodation : The Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection is named after the empress who owned this former palace, which has been converted into a luxury hotel. You won’t regret staying here !

19. Camino de Santiago, a popular thing to do in Spain

Without a doubt, one of the best activities in Spain is doing the Camino de Santiago, one of the best hikes in Spain . Some people do the route on foot, while others go by bike or even run. Whichever method you choose, I promise you it will be a unique experience.

The Camino de Santiago will transport you to some of the most beautiful places in Spain like the tomb of Santiago el Mayor, located in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral .

This route has its roots as a medieval Christian pilgrimage that started from the western Pyrenees. Today, the Camino de Santiago refers to the modern-day routes, such as the Camino Francés and Camino Portugués. As you travel along the route, you’ll meet many other pilgrims making the trek, as well as some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country.

Once you’ve fulfilled your mission and have arrived in Santiago de Compostela, you can receive your official certificate of completion. I also recommend taking this guided tour of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and its museum.

• Recommended accommodation : After such a rigorous journey, the best thing you can do is indulge yourself and stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos . Here, you can lounge like a king in a four-poster bed and enjoy traditional Galician dishes and seafood .

20. Eat paella in Valencia, a typical thing to do in Spain

One of the best things about traveling to a new place is trying different foods, so if you’re going to Spain, you must try paella . You can get paella throughout Spain, but one of the best places to get this traditional dish is in Valencia since it originated there.

Paella is a rice dish, and its name comes from the shallow frying pan that the original Valencian paella was cooked in. Traditional paella valenciana consists of rice, bajoqueta and tavella green beans, rabbit, chicken, and garrofó , a type of lima bean. The ingredients are cooked in olive oil, chicken broth, and saffron, which gives the paella its distinctive yellow color.

This is said to be the original recipe, although you can find all kinds of variations, including paella de mariscos (seafood paella). If you want the very best paella in Spain, be sure to order it in Valencia. Some restaurants that are known for their delicious paella include Casa Carmela, Casa Roberto, La Pepica, La Riuà, and Restaurante Levante.

Sitting around a table with a huge skillet of paella is one of the best things to do in Spain with friends , so you won’t regret traveling to Valencia to experience it!

• Recommended accommodations : Zenit Valencia has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and it’s a few blocks from Casa Roberto. Another good nearby option is Ilunion Aqua 4 next to the City of Arts & Sciences .

21. RondA & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke, called Ronda the city of his dreams, and it’s not hard to see why. Ronda is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and the best way to discover this town is with this free guided tour . Among the famous monuments here, you’ll get to see the New Bridge, which spans the city’s canyon.

You’ll also walk along the Paseo de Ernest Hemingway on the cliffs of El Tajo, which has a sculpture honoring the American writer. Furthermore, you’ll see the iconic balconies of the hanging houses, which hover almost 500 feet over a canyon gorge.

21. Ronda & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

If you fancy something more active, nearby is the Caminito del Rey , one of the best hiking trails in Spain. You can do the route on your own, but if you don’t have much hiking experience, it’s better to do it with a guide . During the 3-hour excursion, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful landscape of cliffs, gorges, and tunnels.

• Recommended accommodation : To round out your visit to Ronda, I recommend the Parador de Ronda , located in the old town hall. You’ll have spectacular views of the gorge and the New Bridge .

22. Go to the oldest restaurant in the world in Madrid

Talking about food again, if you’re in Madrid, you must visit the oldest restaurant in the world , Sobrino de Botín . The restaurant was founded in 1725, and its cellar dates back to 1590.

Sobrino de Botín has an expansive history, especially among artists and creatives. Ernest Hemingway loved dining here, and he even featured the restaurant in one of his books. Also, the Spanish artist Francisco de Goya waited tables here before he got accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.

This tavern is one of the best places to visit in Spain because it’s like stepping back in time. The kitchen oven’s flame has been continuously burning all these years, and the menu consists of original recipes like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cordero asado (roast lamb), and sopa de ajo (a garlicky soup with poached egg).

Moreover, Sobrino de Botín is very close to Plaza Mayor , another popular attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This is one of the city’s main squares and the former center of Old Madrid. It was built during the reign of Philip II, and a bronze statue of the King still stands at the center of the plaza. Throughout the day, you can find tourists and locals passing through, shopping at the stores, or eating at the cafes. Plaza Mayor is also the site of various events throughout the year, including a Christmas market.

• Recommend accommodations : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is a beautiful hotel, or you can stay at the Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid if you’d like to be closer to Plaza Mayor. The hotel has family rooms, a pet-friendly policy, and a spa, so you’ll be comfortable and close to several main attractions .

23. Santiago Bernabéu or Camp Nou, the perfect places to visit in Spain for soccer lovers

Soccer is one of the top activities in Spain , so if you’re a sports fan, there are two places I recommend you visit.

Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid is the famous home stadium for Real Madrid. With a capacity for over 81,000 people, it’s the second-largest stadium in Spain. If there is a game there during your stay, it’s worth going for the camaraderie and experience. Another option is this stadium tour to see the massive arena, exclusive areas for players, and memorabilia about the stadium’s history.

If you’re going to be in Barcelona, check out Camp Nou , the home stadium for FC Barcelona. It’s the biggest stadium in Spain and all of Europe, with seating for over 99,000 spectators. Besides hosting soccer games, Camp Nou is a popular venue for concerts and other events. It also has an on-site museum, so I recommend this tour , which takes you to the soccer pitch, the locker rooms, and the commentary box. You’ll also get to see videos, jerseys, and other items from FC Barcelona’s top players.

• Recommended accommodations : The H10 Tribeca is very close to Santiago Bernabéu and offers modern, sound-proof rooms with free Wi-Fi. If you want to stay near Camp Nou, NH Barcelona Stadium is a sustainable hotel with an on-site restaurant and views of Montjuïc .

24. San Lorenzo de El Escorial, one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Spain

The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of the most important landmarks in Spain , as it’s the best example of the country’s “Golden Age” ideology of the 16 th century.

This World Heritage Site is comprised of the Royal Palace of King Philip II, a convent, a library with thousands of ancient books, and royal burial sites for several former monarchs. The Pantheon of Kings contains the remains of over two dozen royals from the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties.

Throughout its history, El Escorial has served as a basilica, a hospital, a library, a monastery, a museum, a pantheon, and a school. It’s a must-see in Spain thanks to its lovely marble walls, gold-plated accents, and formal gardens.

If you want to know more about this impressive monastery, I recommend you take this excursion , which also takes you to the Valley of the Fallen, an important monument from Spain’s Civil War era.

• Recommended accommodation : If you can, stay at the Exe Victoria Palace , which overlooks the San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Valmayor Reservoir, and the Sierra de Guadarrama. It also has a garden with an outdoor pool where you can lounge and beat the summer heat in Madrid .

25. Salamanca, a city with lots of fun things to do in Spain

Salamanca is a city with lots of cultural points of interest in Spain , like the New and Old Cathedrals, Plaza Mayor, and the Casa de las Conchas. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 and is home to the country’s oldest university.

Moreover, Salamanca is known for its historical monuments, so if you don’t want to miss anything here, I recommend this free tour . It’ll take you past the Plaza del Corrillo, the impressive architecture of the New Cathedral , and the Episcopal Palace, which houses the History Museum of Salamanca . Your guide will also point out the hidden figures etched into the façade of the University of Salamanca , which was founded in 1218.

For me, Salamanca is the most beautiful place to visit in Spain ’s Castilla y León region, so it’s a city you must visit at least once!

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Fenix Gran Meliá hotel, one of the most romantic hotels in Spain. It’s located next to the Plaza de Colón and features classic English furnishings and décor .

26. Visit the beaches of the Canary Islands, something to do in Spain as a couple

If you’re looking for things to do in Spain in winter , I heartily recommend going to the Canary Islands . The Islands are one of my favorite tourist spots in Spain thanks to its year-round temperate climate, its landscapes, and of course, its beautiful beaches.

The average temperature in the Canary Islands is around 68°F, and it rarely rains, so it’s the perfect place to go in the winter. Among all the activities to do here, one of the best things is sightseeing and witnessing the volcanic surroundings of the islands.

When you’re planning your trip, you’ll have to decide which is the best island in the Canary Islands for you. It’s a tough choice, so here are my top suggestions for each island:

• Things to do in Tenerife : Whale tours, Mount Teide, Anaga National Park, and Benijo Beach
• Things to see in Gran Canaria : The beach and dunes of Maspalomas, Roque Nublo
• Things to see in Lanzarote : Timanfaya, Papagayo Beach, and the works of César Manrique
• Things to do in Fuerteventura : Corralejo Dunes and Cofete Beach
• Things to see in La Palma : Roque de Los Muchachos and Caldera de Taburiente
• Things to do in La Gomera : Laurisilva (laurel forest) in Garajonay Natural Park
• Things to do in El Hierro : This quieter island is perfect for scuba diving

Whichever island you choose, you won’t regret it! Without a doubt, the Canary Islands are one of the best places to visit in Spain , so don’t pass them up !

27. San Sebastián, another unique place to visit in Spain

San Sebastián is another lovely city to see in Spain, particularly for its charming La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain .

That said, the most-visited part of San Sebastián and what makes it one of the best places to visit in Spain is its Old Town ( Parte Vieja ). Here, you can visit the Plaza de la Constitución and its colorful buildings, as well as Alameda del Boulevard, the main artery that connects the Old Town to the newer Donostia district. This free tour will tell you more about the town’s history and development.

Another great part about San Sebastián is its gastronomy, as it has the best pintxos (tapas) in the country. It’s worth indulging in the specialties here, and you can try all the best pintxos on this food tour .

• Recommended accommodations : I suggest staying at the Zenit Convento San Martin , which is just 500 feet from La Concha Beach. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and terrace, which is perfect for lounging in the summertime .

28. Go skiing in the Pyrenees, a fun activity in Spain you should do

If you like sports and you’re visiting Spain during the winter, you must go skiing in the Pyrenees .

Within the Catalan Pyrenees , I recommend the Baqueria-Beret ski resort, which has a wide variety of slopes and off-trail runs. If this is where you choose to go, stay at the Hotel Val de Neu , which offers free ski storage, as well as rooms and suites with views of the slopes. There is also the luxury Sisley Spa, where you can indulge in massages, beauty treatments, a thermal circuit, and an outdoor hot tub. It’s the perfect thing to do in Spain after spending a few hours on the slopes.

Another option is La Molina , with over 44 skiable miles. La Molina opened its doors in 1943, making it the oldest ski resort in Catalonia, and it was also the first in Spain to install a ski lift. Today, the resort has 69 slopes, 12 ski schools, and 400 instructors. It’s one of the best places to visit in Spain with family , although you can also train here. If you choose to go here, purchase your ski pass in advance here .

Finally, in the Pyrenees of Huesca, you can go to the Celer, Astún, and Formigal ski resorts. If you prefer something further south, check out the slopes of the Sierra Nevada .

29. Wine tastings in La Rioja, another nice thing to do in Spain as a couple

Spain has the most cultivated vineyards in the world and, it’s number three worldwide in terms of wine production. So, you can imagine that doing a wine tasting in La Rioja is one of the best things to do in Spain .

I mention La Rioja because it’s the creme de la creme regarding Spanish vineyards. If you’d like to immerse yourself in this culture, I recommend this tour , which takes you through the Rioja Vega winery’s grounds and barrel room. You’ll learn about the origins of Spanish wine and, of course, enjoy a guided tasting.

Without a doubt, La Rioja is one of the best places to go in Spain as a couple , although it’s also lots of fun with friends.

• Recommended accommodation : For a dreamy visit, stay at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal in Elciego, within La Rioja’s Alavesa province. Most of the rooms have built-in window seats overlooking the valley. You’ll also have access to the hotel’s Vinothérapie Spa by Caudalie Marqués de Riscal, which offers grape-infused treatments. There is also an indoor pool, a hammam, a Finnish sauna, and a gym, making it one of the most charming hotels in Spain .

30. Party in Ibiza, an awesome thing to do in Spain with friends

Ibiza is known around the world for its party atmosphere, and while it’s true that its nightlife is quite the experience, there is a lot more to this place.

Many areas of Ibiza are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so it’s one of the best islands to visit near Spain . Among these sites are the Renaissance walls of Old Town , the Ses Feixes Wetlands, and the remains of the first Phoenician settlement at Sa Caleta.

Another historic site is Dalt Vila , or High Town. It’s also worth visiting the scenic Punta d’es Moscarter on the northern tip of the island. You can learn more secrets about Ibiza’s Old Town and Dalt Vila on this free tour .

As you can see, Ibiza offers plenty of culture and history, so it’s one of the best holiday destinations in Spain if you’re looking for something different.

• Recommended accommodation : THB Los Molinos , located in Dalt Vila, is an adults-only hotel right on the beach. It has a sauna, hot tub, gym, and balcony rooms, as well as Balinese beds and a bar right next to the pool.

Spanish foods you must try

Trying some typical Spanish foods is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Spain . Below are some of the must-try foods I recommend:

• Paella : As I mentioned, paella is a rice dish that originated in Valencia, and it’s traditionally made with special types of green beans, lima beans, chicken, rabbit, and saffron.
• Gazpacho : This chilled soup is typically made with tomato, cucumbers, onion, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, wine vinegar, water, salt, and crusty bread. It’s most popular in southern Spain.
• Tortilla de patatas : Also known as a Spanish omelet, this dish is made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s often served in smaller portions as a tapa .
• Patatas bravas : Forget French fries; patatas bravas are white potatoes fried in oil, then served with a spicy sauce. They’re often served as tapas , and they’re absolutely delicious.
• Sangria : This red wine mixed with chopped apples, berries, or stone fruits is a staple in Spain.
• Tapas : Tapas are small plates or appetizers that you typically eat with beer or wine. There are different varieties, but the most popular tapas include olives ( aceitunas ), meatballs ( albóndigas ), Russian salad ( ensaladilla rusa ), croquettes, patatas bravas , tortilla de patatas , fried cheese, fried squid rings ( calamares ), and sauteed prawns ( gambas ).

My advice is to come to this country hungry because sampling the traditional foods here is one of the most delicious activities in Spain !

How to get around Spain

Spain is great for road tripping and renting a car will help you see the places in Spain that I recommend here, as well as the surrounding areas. Besides, you can often rent a car in one town and drop it off at another, so it’s quite convenient.

If you want to find cheap car rentals , it’s best to read our guide first. In the past, we’ve mostly used DiscoverCars to get the best prices. Sometimes they’re up to three times cheaper than other websites, so I recommend to check them out.

Also, take into account that renting a car is not required in Spain since there are plenty of bus and train options if you don’t want to drive. To check the best bus/train/flights options in Spain we always use Omio .

And there you have the best things to do in Spain . If you’d like to tell me about your favorite tourist attractions in Spain , or you want to ask me any questions, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment. Until then, have a safe trip!

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• Best of Spain
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• Beach Destinations
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• Map of Spain
• About España Guide

SPAIN The Definitive Travel Guide

• WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Why does everyone love Spain?

There’s 1,001 reasons to love Spain. You just have to visit to find yours.

You can explore trendy Barcelona and admire the organic modernist masterpieces from architect Antoni Gaudi. Head north to the Basque Country if you want to sample some of Spain’s best gastronomy. Or discover immaculate Islamic palaces in Seville and Granada .

Once you’ve taken in enough of Spain’s vast culture, venture to the Mediterranean coast and the islands (Balearic and Canary) where you can relax on some of Europe’s best beaches.

• Quick Facts About Spain
• Best Places in Spain
• See a Live Flamenco Show

Top Attractions in Spain

More of the best of spain.

• Hotels in Spain
• What languages are spoken in Spain?
• Business Hours
• Eating Times
• Bar Culture
• Coffee Culture
• Menu del Dia
• Driving in Spain
• Parking in Spain
• Avoid Speeding Tickets
• Highways in Spain

Weather in Spain

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Best Places to Visit in Spain

FLAMENCO IN SPAIN

Alhambra – granada, royal alcazar – seville, mosque – cordoba, cathedral – seville, 12 day trips from madrid, best cities in spain, spanish regions, best beaches in spain, the best hotels in spain.

Travel to Spain – What You Need to Know

What languages are spoken in spain.

The official and universal language in Spain is Spanish (español). However, in Spain, the language is most commonly called Castellano , referring to the region of Castile where it comes from.

The Basque language is known as euskara in Basque and vasco in Español. In addition to being spoken in the Basque Country, it can also be heard in northern Navarre and a small area in France just on the other side of the border.

Basque is the only surviving pre-indo-european language , which means that it isn’t related to Spanish at all – or any other known language in the world for that matter. To this day, no one is quite sure how Basque survived or where it comes from.

Catalan and Galician (gallego in Spanish) are both romance languages and much more similar to Spanish. The Catalan language encompasses several dialects that are spoken in Catalonia, Valencia and the Balearic Islands – basically the whole eastern Mediterranean coast of Spain. From an outside perspective, Catalan may seem like a mixture of Spanish and French.

Galician, on the other hand, is much more closely related to Portuguese. In fact, it is a Portuguese sister language with some Castellano influences. Galician is spoken in the northwestern corner of Spain in Galicia and to a lesser extent in western Asturias.

BUSINESS HOURS IN SPAIN

Spain has a schedule all of its own. From Monday to Friday, most businesses close between 2 and 5 pm, give or take. On Saturdays, they don’t reopen in the afternoon. And on Sundays, pretty much everything is closed.

There are also some exceptions to these strange business hours. Shopping malls don’t close in the middle of the day. Many chain stores don’t either. You really just have to check – but be aware.

In larger cities such as Barcelona and Madrid , some stores open on particular Sundays which are specially declared shopping days. This usually happens in December, just before Christmas.

Then there are the Chinese-run shops that can be found in even the most obscure locations in Spain. Los chinos, as they are referred to, have found a permanent place in Spanish society with stores selling just about everything imaginable – a little bit like a dollar store. The Chinese are open when no one else is, including Sundays.

EATING TIMES IN SPAIN

Spanish eating times are probably the hardest thing to adjust to when visiting Spain. Their time is off by several hours when compared with most of the world. Breakfast isn’t usually much of an issue. A typical Spanish breakfast is often not much more than a coffee and a small bite to eat, such as a muffin or a biscuit.

Lunch and dinner times are the tricky ones. A typical lunchtime in Spain is 1:30 to 2 pm during the week, and on the weekend, it is not uncommon to start lunch even after 3 pm.

Dinner is also a late affair. No Spaniard would ever eat dinner before 8 pm. And again, the weekend is even later. Friday and Saturday night restaurant reservations for 11 pm are very common.

Because of that, we recommend adapting as much as possible to the Spanish eating times when visiting. For example, if you are shopping and notice that stores are closing, that is your cue to get some food!

If you unfortunately miss lunchtime, you may be lucky and find a bar that is serving some small tapas or sandwiches (bocadillos).

BAR CULTURE IN SPAIN

Bar culture in Spain is unique compared to other parts of the world. It is an integral part of the social sphere and not just a place to get drunk. Although people of course do get drunk, it is not a common sight to see patrons getting wasted.

It’s totally normal to see families with young kids and grandparents all out together in the bar. That’s because the Spanish bar offers much more than just alcoholic drinks.

It’s a place to go for a coffee with friends or family. You can go for a mid-morning/afternoon snack (tapa) or have a sandwich (bocadillo) for lunch. It’s also where you meet up in the evening to have a drink and something small to eat with friends.

You can even make a tapas crawl out of it – going to one bar, having a drink with a tapa, and then moving on to the next.

COFFEE CULTURE IN SPAIN

Spaniards love their coffee. And when they want a coffee, they go to a bar, not a cafe. There are 3 typical ways coffee is served in Spain: 1.) solo - straight espresso, 2.) cortado - espresso with a dash of milk 3.) café con leche - espresso with milk. For those who like lattes or cappuccinos, a café con leche is the closest thing you will find.

There are international chains such as Starbucks starting to appear in big cities, particularly around tourist areas. But we recommend supporting the small family-owned bars which are an essential part of the local culture and in our opinion serve far superior coffee at a very low price.

MENÚ DEL DÍA

Lunch is the biggest and most important meal of the day in Spain. Restaurants will often have a set menu of the day. Look for menú del día being advertised on the boards outside and take note – this is the best way to eat like a king for a very reasonable price.

Normally, you can select between a few different options for each course. Wine (or water) is even thrown in and it’s all included in a set price.

On weekends, menú del día is typically a little bit more expensive with even better course options.

TIPPING IN SPAIN

Tipping in Spain isn’t such a big thing. Receiving a tip is not expected but definitely appreciated. As a general rule, you would only tip on meals in a restaurant where you were satisfied with the service.

Some Spaniards might leave some change – rounding up or leaving a euro here or there - all depending on how nice the restaurant is and of course how satisfied you were with the service. But something like a 15 - 20% tip would be far too much.

To get an idea, if a meal costs €30, then you could leave a euro or two if you were very satisfied. If you are in a fancier place and the meal was €90 then a €5 tip would be plenty.

A tip is pretty much never expected for something small like a coffee or drink. That also includes any light food that you would order at a bar. If your bill is €3.75 then you could round up to €4.

Tipping in taxis is also not very common. But again, if the driver is friendly and helpful, you can round up or give an extra euro or two.

In general, unless someone goes far out of their way for you or you are treated like royalty, then a tip is not needed. Use your intuition and remember that a tip is for excellent service and by no means ever expected.

How to get around Spain

Spain has a fairly extensive rail network and taking a train can be a great way to move around the country. RENFE , the Spanish rail company, has several high-speed train lines called AVE.

These lines are a fast way to move between some cities and can be quicker than traveling by plane. For example, you can go from Madrid to Malaga in 2 h 20 min or Madrid to Barcelona in just under 3 hours. If you were to go by car or bus, it would easily take double the time.

Ticket prices are comparable with those of other European countries but usually travel by bus is the cheapest option. Travel by train in Spain is quite reliable and comfortable.

Depending on your destination, traveling by train might be your best option, but that is not always the case. Check out our map of train routes . For more general Spain train information, check out this beginner's guide to train travel in Spain .

Travel by bus is very common in Spain, especially in regions where the train network is slow or not very complete. Bus fares are very cheap and departures are frequent.

The largest bus operator in Spain is Alsa , followed by Samr and Avanza. You can buy tickets directly through the operators' website or on a booking site such as Omio . It is also common to buy tickets at the bus station on the day of the trip.

There are plenty of large airports in Spain and cheap flights are easy to come by. Low-cost airlines such as Vueling, EasyJet and Ryanair offer the most flights between Spanish cities, followed by Spain’s national airline, Iberia.

In some instances if can even be cheaper to fly than to take the train. See our transportation map of Spain to find out where the busiest airports are located.

Renting a car is very affordable in Spain, especially compared to many other European countries. However, it is still probably not your cheapest transportation option.

If you only plan on visiting the larger cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, then a car would not be needed or recommended. But if you want to have extra convenience and get off the beaten path, then a rental car is a great option .

DRIVING IN SPAIN

Driving in Spain is pretty easy going for the most part. However, driving in Spanish cities can be very stressful. Besides heavy traffic, there are many one-way streets and finding parking is often complicated.

If you find on-street parking, then you will need to know the parking laws. Parking tickets are given out a lot in larger cities and they can be pricey.

We only recommend driving if you are traveling between cities, not in them. We like to look up a parking garage in a city on google maps and then head straight there. Once you are in the city you can explore it on foot or with public transportation.

AVOID SPEEDING TICKETS

In Spain, the speed limit is 50 km/h in towns and cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, 100 km/h on main roads and 120 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are pretty common and tickets aren’t cheap.

HIGHWAYS IN SPAIN

There are two types of highways in Spain called “autopistas” (“AP-” followed by a number) and “autovías” (“A-” followed by a number). Autopistas (AP) are usually toll roads, while autovías (A) are always free.

To get an idea of Spain’s weather, see the temperature chart of Barcelona below. It is a good example of what the weather is like in Spain.

WEATHER IN BARCELONA

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10 best places to visit in Spain

From cities celebrated by the art world to whitewashed villages surrounded by quiet vineyards, our specialists’ favorite places to visit in Spain span an array of regions, each culturally and historically distinct from the other. In the north, Barcelona and Bilbao are playgrounds of modern architectural marvels, while Andalusia’s cityscapes and cultures have been shaped by Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities alike.

Wherever you choose to visit, we’ll pair you with local guides who can show you the country through their eyes. You might step into a cave dwelling in Grenada’s Roma district to watch a flamenco show unfold or spend an afternoon dining with a private gastronomic society in Spain’s culinary center, San Sebastián. Along the coast, you can take private sunset cruises or enjoy a little rest and relaxation on sun-gilded sands.

Our specialists will mix and match Spain’s best places to visit to create a trip that speaks to your passions.

Choose your destination

• San Sebastián
• Málaga & Marbella
• Córdoba

1. Barcelona

Why visit: medieval streets, modernist art & golden beaches

Catalonia’s cultural capital, Barcelona  has been a canvas and muse for Spain’s most celebrated artists and architects. Antoni Gaudí’s swirling Sagrada Família rises from the city, Pablo Picasso’s works hang in his namesake museum, and locally born Joan Miró’s art is on display in nearby Montjuïc.

We can pair you with a private guide who’ll help you delve into Barcelona’s cultural heritage on a walking or cycling tour of the city. Or you could choose to focus your day entirely on Gaudí’s influence  as you visit Casa Milà, Park Güell, and the not-quite-finished Sagrada Família with a local expert.

Away from the well-known highlights, you can soak up Barcelona’s electric atmosphere on a tapas tour that leads you to family-run shops, or take to the water on a private sailing experience along the Mediterranean coast at sunset.

We can also arrange for you to see the fingerlike formations of nearby Montserrat that point up to the heavens in front of the mountainside monastery of the same name.

Dig deeper: Barcelona boasts some of the best paella in the country, and you can learn the secrets behind this saffron-infused rice dish during a private cooking class and market visit  with a local chef.

Don’t miss: With an eclectic mix of mosaics, stained glass, and embellished ceilings, Palau de la Música Catalana is a masterpiece of modernist Catalan architecture. We can arrange for you to enjoy a musical performance under its vaulted roof.

• Get me there: Barcelona & the Costa Brava

Why visit: sweeping plazas, world-class museums & delectable dishes

Originally a fort city built by the Moors, Madrid is now a sprawling metropolis that reflects the many layers of Spain’s history. You can peer up at baroque buildings, gaze at Belle Époque palaces, sip coffee on sun-soaked plazas, and admire carefully curated exhibits in one of the city’s many museums.

See the highlights on a walking tour that takes you to the wide-open Plaza Mayor, lively Puerta del Sol, and Museo del Prado, which showcases the Spanish monarchy’s collection of artworks. If you’d like to linger longer in the museums, we can arrange for you to spend half a day with a local art expert at both Museo del Prado and Museo Reina Sofía, so you can contrast the 16th- and 17th-century works with modern masterpieces, like Picasso’s Guernica.

For a taste of Spain, you could join a private cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare classic tapas dishes like tortilla de patatas (potato omelette), chorizo a la sidra (chorizo in cider), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and patatas bravas (fried potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce).

Dig deeper: Venture just outside of the capital and you’ll find fields striped with grapevines. For a different perspective on the region, you can visit a family-run winery to get a behind-the-scenes look at local wine production, followed by a tasting overlooking the vineyards.

Don’t miss: Teatro Flamenco Madrid is the world’s first flamenco theater, attracting a leading cast of artists. We can book tickets (VIP, if you like) for an evening performance of song, dance, and plenty of passion.

• Get me there: Highlights of Madrid, Barcelona & Mallorca

Square minarets and ornate tiled walls give you a glimpse into Seville’s past as a Moorish city. But Islamic influences aren’t the only defining characteristic of the Andalusian capital — there’s the old Jewish quarter with its limewashed buildings and narrow streets, a Venetian-inspired canal in the Plaza de España, and the sleek modern Metropol Parasol that gives you a chance to walk high above the city.

You can explore Seville’s highlights by carriage, bike, or on foot with a private guide, who’ll share stories about its history, culture, and the communities who’ve lived here over the centuries. We’ll also arrange tickets for you to visit Seville’s cathedral and the Real Alcázar at your own leisure. Both are leading examples of how Moorish architecture and Christian influences have melded over the years.

Seville is also a great springboard for exploring the surrounding towns and countryside. You could visit a family-run olive mill to learn how boutique olive oil is made, or go hiking in Jabugo, where black pigs feast on acorns — the key to providing the finest jamón ibérico.

Dig deeper: Combine two of Spain’s cultural greats — tapas and flamenco — during a guided tour, which starts at the city’s very best culinary haunts and ends with a performance of the city’s home-grown artform at an authentic venue.

Don’t miss: Outside of Seville, you could visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art for a performance at these internationally renowned stables. We’ll arrange for you to sit in the VIP area to watch how the horses skilfully dance to music, before meeting the riders during the intermission.

• Get me there: Southern Spain explored

Why visit: Alhambra Palace, Arab influences & cave dwellings

Another of Andalusia’s great Moorish cities, Granada is best known for its mountain-backed Alhambra Palace, often dubbed the finest example of Islamic architecture in Europe. Moorish influences are found right across the city, with its Arab bathhouses, winding medina-like streets, and sprinkling of converted mosques.

Alhambra is one of the most visited sites in all of Spain, so we recommend going with a private guide. They’ll help steer you away from the crowds and take you to quieter corners. As you tour, you’ll learn about the Nasrid emirs who lived here in the 14th century and the Spanish royals who later called it home following the Reconquista.

During your time in Grenada, you could also take a private cooking class, where you’ll prepare and feast on Spanish and Andalusian delicacies like salmorejo (a creamy soup similar to gazpacho), tortilla de patatas, and paella, washed down with a heady glass of sangria.

Dig deeper: Just above the main city, Sacromonte is home to a Roma community who live in whitewashed hillside caves. You can spend an evening inside one of the caves, where local artists will sing and dance flamenco, upholding a centuries-old tradition.

Don’t miss: The towns of Úbeda and Baeza are around a 90-minute drive from Granada, but well worth a visit for their UNESCO-protected Renaissance architecture. You’ll go with a private driver and guide, who’ll recount the history of the region as you stroll past carved stone buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

5. San Sebastián

Why visit: wining, dining & hiking

San Sebastián lies on the golden Bay of Biscay in the mountainous Basque Country and was once a beachside playground for 19th-century royalty. This gave rise to a culinary culture unmatched in the rest of the country, making it one of Spain’s best places for food lovers. There are ten Michelin-starred restaurants in this compact city alone, as well as dozens of tiny bars that serve pintxos (bite-size dishes held together with wooden skewers).

There are many ways you can delve into the city’s cuisine. You could join a local guide for a walking tour, where you’ll learn about the city’s history as you snack on an array of pintxos, from crunchy calamari to tuna ceviche and pickled peppers. Or, try your hand at making them yourself during a Basque cooking class .

Food might be the star of the show in the city but venture a little further out and forested hillsides beckon more active pursuits. We can pair you with a private guide who’ll take you to the best trails and viewpoints, including one overlooking the UNESCO-protected San Millán Monastery.

Dig deeper: Join an exclusive (but laidback) dining society for the day to celebrate the city’s finer cuisine, prepared by a food-fanatical group of locals. As you dine, you’ll also get to taste the society’s specially curated wines.

Don’t miss: Though wine is perhaps the most well-known tipple in the region (especially in nearby La Rioja), cider is equally as popular, and apple orchards dot the surrounding countryside. You can go on a private tour of a nearby cider farm, where you’ll visit the orchard, learn how cider is produced, and finish with a tasting.

• Get me there: Culinary highlights of Seville & San Sebastián

Why visit: the Guggenheim, pintxos & prehistoric caves

A city of contrasts, Bilbao brings together shiny avant-garde structures with more muted traditional streets. Home to the Guggenheim Bilbao, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, and an array of modern architectural feats, it’s a destination for design lovers.

To fully appreciate the twisting titanium form of the Guggenheim, architect Frank Gehry’s vision, and the contemporary art pieces that are displayed inside, we’ll arrange for you to visit with a local expert. Once you’ve explored its galleries, your guide will take you to central Bilbao, where you can stroll inside the Art Deco Mercado de la Ribera, a historic marketplace filled with local produce and cuisine.

Bilbao is another of the Basque Country’s gastronomy hubs, and you’ll find plenty of pintxos here, too. A local guide can help you find the best bars and bakeries on a tasting tour of nearby town Getxo.

Dig deeper: Much like San Sebastián, Bilbao boasts several members-only gastronomical societies, called txokos. We can help you become a member for the day as you join the culinary group for lunch in a small suburb by the sea.

Don’t miss: Take a break from ultra-modern design to visit the prehistoric Monte Castillo caves located 90 minutes east of Bilbao. As you descend into the caves, you’ll wander past stalactites, stalagmites, bright mineral deposits, and Palaeolithic art that dates back over 40,800 years.

• Get me there: Basque Country explorer

7. Mallorca

Why visit: crescent beaches, artisanal produce & outdoor adventures

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca isn’t just a feet-up beach destination (though we recommend spending some time on the sand, too). Head inland and you’ll find mountain trails flanked by farmland and a culture laden with artisanal traditions.

You might visit a 500-year-old estate to sample Son Moragues olive oil, learn how to prepare authentic paella with a chef, or go on a hike that leads to the verdant vineyard of a local wine producer. As you sample each delicacy, you’ll peel back the island’s layers that are easily missed on a beach-only retreat.

Though when it comes to basking in the warm waters of the Balearic Sea, we’ll help you find the most secluded seafront hotels and stretches of sand.

Dig deeper: Learn how to make sandals with a local shoemaker just north of Palma for an entirely personalized souvenir. Once you’re fitted for the correct size, you’ll choose your sandal design and leather, before getting to work.

Don’t miss: Beyond simply relaxing, the waters around Mallorca offer the chance for more adventure. Head out with a kayaking guide to explore the various caves that dot the coastline, stopping to swim and snorkel as you go.

• Get me there: Island hopping in the Balearics

Why visit: quiet beaches, sunset cruises & medieval streets

Nestled on the Mediterranean coast in Northern Catalonia, Begur offers a peaceful respite from the frenetic buzz of the region’s capital city, Barcelona. It can also act as a launchpad for exploring other medieval towns and villages in Costa Brava, like Girona and Pals.

When you’re not relaxing along the rock-sculpted coastline or scouting out the prettiest medieval buildings in and around the city, you can take a kayaking tour near the fortified fishing village of Tossa de Mar. As you paddle on the gentle waters, you can peer up at the sea cliffs and imposing city walls that frame the coastline.

In nearby Girona, you can take a private walking tour along the cobbled lanes to learn about its turbulent past — its medieval walls survived more than 20 sieges. Your guide will also steer you to the city’s Jewish quarter, where arms-width streets lead you to shaded courtyards.

Dig deeper: Just under an hour’s drive away is Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Together with your guide, you can visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum to admire his surrealist works, from reality-warped paintings to intricately designed jewelry.

Don’t miss: See Begur from the water on a private sunset cruise along the azure Mediterranean coast. Sip drinks and nibble on snacks as the sun paints the sky in a pink-orange glow.

9. Málaga & Marbella

Why visit: whitewashed villages, glittering coast & art galleries

Often reserved for the end of a trip, both Málaga and Marbella on the Costa del Sol are some of Spain’s best places to unwind. With around 320 days of sunshine a year, beachside relaxation is a given, but we can also help you uncover the towns’ historical and cultural significance.

On a guided walking tour of Málaga, you’ll stroll around the city’s Gothic cathedral, Roman amphitheatre, and the remains of Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish castle, before tucking into crispy churros con chocolate at the open market.

Both towns boast an array of galleries and museums to appease all types of art enthusiasts, including the Picasso Museum in Málaga, which houses over 200 of the artist’s works, and Marbella’s Museo Ralli, where you can ponder the works of Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Henry Moore, and Marc Chagall.

Dig deeper: Stretch your legs in between beach days with a gentle hike in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. As you walk, you’ll see sprinklings of whitewashed villages perched on the terraced hills.

Don’t miss: Within Andalusia’s gleaming white villages, you can delve into artisanal culture on a guided drive through the countryside. You might take a peek into leather workshops and taste regional delicacies like buñuelos, sweet dough fritters thought to have Moorish origins.

10. Córdoba

Why visit: UNESCO World Heritage city, the Mezquita & tapas

Roman, Visigoth, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities have each contributed a historical and cultural layer to form Córdoba’s labyrinthine historic district. Once the capital of Spain and a European center of intellectualism, Córdoba is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the top places to visit on a trip to southern Spain.

The city’s star landmark is the Mezquita, a sprawling former mosque that’s been altered over the years to become a cathedral. You can admire its echo-inducing high ceilings, red-and-white striped two-tiered arches, and ornate domed mihrab (prayer niche) on a guided tour of the city. You’ll also visit the winding streets of the former Jewish quarter, where your private guide will help you piece together the city’s complex story.

With plenty of fresh local ingredients, Córdoba is hailed for its quality cuisine. Garlicky chilled tomato soup, crispy fried eggplant laced with honey, and flaky sugar-topped pastries filled with sweetened squash jam are just some of the local delicacies you might try on a tapas tour tailored to your tastes.

Dig deeper: Discover what makes Córdoba’s food and drink so delicious by visiting a local olive oil mill set in a 19th-century Andalusian farmhouse, before tasting wine at a prestigious winery in nearby Montilla.

Don’t miss: Founded in 1570, the Royal Stables of Córdoba set out to breed only the finest Andalusian horses. Now, you can visit for a performance that brings together skilled horsemanship with the artistry of flamenco on the ground.

Read more about trips to Spain

Basque Country by car & ferry: Bilbao, La Rioja & San Sebastián

7 days from $3,630pp

Best of Barcelona & Madrid

7 days from $6,895pp

Highlights of Spain: Seville, Barcelona & Madrid

10 days from $12,085pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• The taste of Spain: a Spanish food guide
• Cathedrals, monasteries and basilicas of Spain
• Introducing Andalusia and Moorish Spain
• In and around Madrid: our highlights
• Best of Spain and Portugal

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• Destination Guides

Why Northeastern Spain is the Finest Family Destination

A trip to Spain’s lesser-visited regions of Aragon and Navarra could be the dream nature filled family vacation.

By Toby Louch

As Spain’s vast landscape transitions from placid rolling hills to its mountainous border region with France — marked clearly by the naturally occurring barrier of the Pyrenees — the diversity of the nation’s terrain is unmistakable. The northeastern corner of Iberia is an immense playground, sought after by travelers across the globe for its majestic vistas and enchanting culture. This region of Spain is also one of the finest destinations for a family vacation that can be found anywhere in the world.

Those seeking the ultimate family experience look for variety, ensuring everyone’s desires from a holiday are met. From the relaxing to the more uptempo, travelers can do no wrong in the provinces of Huesca, Navarra and the Aragon Pyrenees.

Similarly, modern travelers — particularly families — are looking to travel differently. Parents are more conscious about the impact of travel, looking to take steps to explore in a sustainable low-impact way.

Holidays are also seen as an opportunity for education, in addition to relaxation and the making of memories. The magic of a family holiday really occurs when all these aspects are wrapped up into one. The beauty of this charming lesser-traveled part of Spain is that it can tick all these boxes, year-round. 

[See more: The Best Climbing Spots in Spain]

The true art of a family vacation is ensuring everyone’s happy and a family trip to Spain is no different. Perhaps someone’s looking to decompress, switch off from work life and relax with a good book beside a crystal blue pool or tranquil lake . Maybe someone’s heading to Spain in search of adventure , hiking to the top of peaks or perhaps dipping their toe in some of this country’s world-beating rock climbing. Or perhaps it’s the food and drink, as they look to enjoy locally grown wines and sample regional delicacies.

The regions of Aragon and Navarre have more than enough to go around. The mountainous Pyrenean area is ideal for those seeking adventure. In the winter, the landscape is transformed into a snowsports paradise with skiers and snowboarders alike heading for the immensely popular resorts of Candanchú and Formigal to get their fix. A ski trip poses as the ideal family-focused trip, as everyone gets involved in learning a new skill.

For something a little slower, but still unquestionably mountainous, head to the tranquil Ibones de Anayet. Here, a series of glacial lakes reside high up in the Pyrenees, under the watchful gaze of two volcanic peaks. It will take several hours of hiking uphill to get there, but when it comes to adventure, the journey is always half the fun.

[See also: The Best Beaches for Windsurfing in Spain]

This northeastern region of Spain is home to some of this country’s most diverse ecosystems in which the natural environment thrives, it’s the perfect atmosphere for a family vacation.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a fine example of how the geographical conditions in this area create a truly special place. Here, different ecosystems combine across four valleys to form a natural paradise that has been designated both a Unesco biosphere reserve and a World Heritage Site as the cross-border Pyrenees – Mont Perdu.

Over in the region of Navarra, travelers will discover the enchanting Irati Forest, which is described as one of the most environmentally rich and best-preserved forests in Europe. Comprised mostly of beech and fir trees, this natural wonder surrounds the source of the Irati River and can be found between the valleys of Aezkoa and Salazar. Aside from being an impressive sight in its own right, the forest makes the ideal spot for a quick hike or mountain biking trip. During the winter months, it transforms into a cross-country skiing paradise.

For families, these ecological wonders pose as the ideal destination to immerse children in the natural world, getting them away from screens and allowing them to learn in an organic way.

[See also: The Top Adventure Experiences for 2024]

Sustainability

As a region that possesses such a rich natural environment, for the locals sustainable practices and working closely with the natural world is a way of life.

Nowhere is this more visible than in the region’s vineyards , which while not as famous as those in Rioja, carry just as much history and possess true reverence for a fine bottle. Take Bodegas Osca for example, a winery that knows a thing or two about longevity as one of Spain’s oldest operating wineries.   

Positioned in Somontano in the picturesque Pyrenean foothills, this winery possesses vineyards that stretch over 30 hectares of carefully managed limestone soil and a wine cellar that dates back to the year 1480, a time when knights and feudal lords roamed the Iberian Peninsula.

For those looking to explore one of Spain’s lesser-known regions, Aragon and Navarra possess a landscape that’s brimming with variety, ideally suited to a family vacation that’s bursting with adventure and discovery of the natural world.  

For more information, visit  spain.info   

[See also: The Best Scuba Diving Spots in Spain]

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Be prepared to visit Spain with these 16 things to know before you go

Jun 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Here's what you need to know to get ready for a trip to Spain © Flashpop / Getty Images

Spain has been home for the past 16 years, ever since I moved to its capital Madrid in my early thirties.

From day one, it was easy to be charmed by this warm and inviting country . It ticks a lot of  boxes in terms of what you’re looking for in a European destination – great cuisine and wine , spectacular landscapes , architectural gems, green spaces and a thriving art scene. 

Getting around the country is also very convenient, thanks to Spain's efficient and reliable multi-modal public transport system . And the Spanish people are some of the friendliest locals, who will happily go out of their way to point you in the right direction if you’re lost.

Of course there were still some cultural quirks I had to adjust to – for one, eating times in Spain are very late in comparison with the rest of the world's dining schedules. I still remember my early days in Madrid when my belly would be in outright rebellion while waiting for “early” dinner reservations at 9pm. And forget about making a speedy exit from social gatherings; in Spain saying farewell could take up another hour of your time.

Cultural idiosyncrasies aside, your trip to this incredible country can be your most memorable one yet if you plan well ahead, and follow these useful travel tips.

1. Pack warm clothes. Really.

There is a humorous Spanish expression that goes, “Hasta cuarenta de mayo, no te quites el sayo” , which translates to “Until the 40th of May, don’t remove your coat” – sage advice to keep a jacket handy until mid-June. While Spain may be famous for its blue skies and sun-drenched beaches, it actually has more colder seasons in the year than warm ones, during early spring (March to May), autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February). Regions in northern Spain, such as the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, have cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country. 

2. Being cashless is common

Card is king in Spain. The main tourist hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona , San Sebastián and Ibiza are generally credit card-friendly destinations. In fact, you could go cashless for days and pay for your meals, drinks, taxis and bus fares without a problem using a credit or debit card.

If you do bring cash, make sure you have loose change. Several establishments, bus and taxi drivers, especially on morning shifts, usually do not have change for bigger bills. So if you prefer paying cash, it’s a good idea to be stocked up on smaller bills (€5 and €10) and coins.

3. Choose your time to visit Madrid wisely

Think twice about visiting Madrid in August . Most establishments in the Spanish capital close, and Madrileños usually head for the beaches to escape the brutal August heat . 

4. Expect to eat late

Prepare for late Spanish dining times. Many tourists who come to Spain for the first time end up hungry while waiting for restaurants to open. Most restaurants open for lunch from 1pm to 4pm, and dinner from 8pm to 1am. A lot of establishments also close on Mondays. You can stave off hunger pangs before mealtimes by snacking on tapas – small savory plates that are usually free with a drink order in many Spanish cities. In San Sebastián or Bilbao in the Basque Country , you can savor pintxos , or bite-sized portions typically served on a slice of bread and skewered with a toothpick.

5. Ordering certain drinks will immediately mark you as a tourist

A popular drink among tourists, sangría is usually served in pitchers meant for sharing, and not by the glass. Instead, try ordering a local favorite that’s similar to sangría, tinto de verano , a concoction of red wine and lemon soda. 

Ask for a caña  like a local instead of a cerveza . A caña  is a small glass of beer on tap (about 250ml).

6. Tipping is not expected

European countries in general don’t have a tipping culture. But of course, it is very much appreciated – especially if you enjoyed good service. 

7. Don't eat food while you’re on the move

Eating is an age-old pleasure that must be savored unhurriedly, so it’s uncommon to see Spaniards biting sandwiches or munching on fries while walking down the street or riding public transportation. 

8. Look for fixed-price lunches

Order the menú del día (daily menu) for lunch on weekdays. Take your cue from the locals and ask for the fixed-price menu (ranging from €8 to €17) that includes a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread and coffee.

9. Eat late, stay late

Make time for sobremesa  – lingering long after a meal for a post-dining conversation. This is a hallmark of sociable Spanish culture, to extend conversations well beyond mealtimes to be able to enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible, usually over drinks.

10. Keep an eye on your belongings

Be vigilant of pickpockets and keep your belongings close. Pickpockets are unfortunately rampant in high tourist traffic areas. If you’re sitting at an outdoor table, watch out for vendors that get suspiciously close and distract you with their items for sale, such as flowers or lottery tickets, while they surreptitiously steal your wallet or mobile phone on the table (this is a modus operandi I’ve witnessed more than once!). 

11. You can drink tap water in Spain

Go ahead and drink the tap water. Spanish tap water or “agua de grifo” is safe to drink, though the taste varies across regions. 

12. There's one number for an emergency

Call 112 for any emergency. You can contact this number for any kind of emergency in Spain, even without a Spanish SIM card on your mobile phone. You’ll be connected to the right emergency service through multilingual operators. To contact the Spanish National Police, dial 091. 

 13. Dress appropriately when away from the beach

Opt for smart casual attire and avoid overly casual outfits like athleisure wear, beachwear, or excessively revealing clothing in the city. If you’re visiting religious sites such as churches, cathedrals or mosques, cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for these places.

14. Brush up on basic Spanish

Like any destination, it helps a lot if you know basic local phrases. While you can get by speaking English in the bigger, more touristy cities, it is a different story when visiting smaller, lesser-known towns outside the tourist radar. 

Don't say “no problemo”, which is incorrect. The correct phrase is “no hay problema” or more colloquially, say “no pasa nada” . 

15. Know what is considered polite

Greet people, even strangers. It’s commonplace to greet people in elevators, shops and along hallways. Compliment good service by saying “muy amable” . Meaning “very kind”, this is a commonly used polite phrase to express gratitude for someone’s helpfulness. It can be said in different situations – if a person has gone out of their way to assist you, like giving you directions, holding a door or giving up their seat for you. You can also say this to show your appreciation for customer service that goes above and beyond.

16. Don’t leave a social gathering without saying goodbye

It is generally frowned upon to leave an occasion without letting your host know. However, be prepared for a long, drawn out goodbye – the Spanish are highly sociable people who like extending conversations, leading to lengthy, and often multiple stages of farewells. 

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