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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 deciding 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 types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. 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, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), 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.

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.

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 that feature 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.

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.

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 45 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.

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 romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway 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).

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 pastel-colored 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.

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 that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

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.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

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 when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

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 Funicular de Artxanda 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.

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 historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

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 you've gotten 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 .

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 scene, 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-hardy reputation. 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 old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

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, take some time to stroll 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, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest 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.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Spain

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.

Map of 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.

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.

15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

These are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain, from charming villages to gorgeous beaches.

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.

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Spain is not a monolith. The country on the Iberian Peninsula comprises 17 autonomous regions, each with distinct culture — with local food, drinks, and music — landmarks, and scenery. From beautiful Balearic beaches and the Antoni Gaudí architecture that shapes Barcelona to the rolling vineyards of Rioja and the Royal Palace in Madrid , Spain brims with historic sights, idyllic landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Needless to say, it’s pretty easy to pack an itinerary. Don’t worry about overdoing it — siestas are a well-established afternoon ritual, something pretty necessary if you're going to stay up for a 10 p.m. dinner.

Here are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain.

Royal Palace of Madrid

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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 and welcomes visitors who come in droves to admire the priceless artwork, armor, and gilded décor.

Platja de Ses Illetes

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

La Sagrada Familia

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Barcelona, Catalonia’s capital, is home to numerous landmarks designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, but none more famous than La Sagrada Família, which holds the distinction of the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Its ogival windows, flying buttresses, twisted towers, and religious carvings make it one of the most beautiful places in Europe .

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

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

San Sebastián

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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 abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by some of the most talented chefs in the world. In between pintxos bars and fine dining, be sure to hit the golden beaches and explore the atmospheric Old Quarter.

Sierra Nevada National Park

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Snow-capped peaks define Sierra Nevada National Park. Not only does this protected area in the Andalusian provinces of Almería and Granada boast the highest mountains in continental Spain, but it’s also home to many rivers, verdant meadows, pine groves, and wildlife such as mountain goats and golden eagles.

Royal Alcázar of Seville

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The Royal Alcázar of Seville tells an interesting story reflective of Spain’s past. It was built for King Peter of Castile by Castilian Christians, but it actually sits on the site of an Abbadid Muslim alcázar, or palace. 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 away from the capital (though it’s only 20 minutes away). Narrow streets wind toward the Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), a former royal palace that was later gifted to monks. Visitors can learn more about the town’s cultural heritage at Costa Nord.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

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

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 has a remote allure with near-empty beaches, pine forests, winding roads, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Prado Museum

The Prado Museum in Madrid serves as the main repository for national art. It boasts a truly spectacular collection of works by Spanish masters — paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, and sculptures — and showcases the talents of European artists throughout history as well.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

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The most significant and snap-worthy modern tourist attraction in Valencia, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is a futuristic-looking cultural complex that was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava and features a ship-shaped opera house, IMAX dome theater, interactive science museum, 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 the Parque de María Luisa should be at the top of your list. Erected ahead of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, the famous plaza is truly show-stopping with grand buildings, a large fountain, canals, and tile-ornamented bridges.

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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 tasting at a few of the bodegas near the town of Haro.

Casa de Campo

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Casa de Campo in Madrid covers 1,723 hectares (for anyone doing the math, that makes it five times the size of Central Park in New York City) of verdant fields, forests, multi-use walking and cycling paths, tennis courts, a lake for boating, and even an amusement park, zoo, and aquarium.

15 Best Places to Visit in Spain

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Aug 4, 2022

Few tourism destinations in the world offer such a dazzling array of places to see and tourist attractions to visit as Spain. This European country is also filled with striking natural scenery and beauty, from the rugged Sierra Nevada mountain range to the white sand and blue lagoons of its Mediterranean islands like Ibiza.

The country is also fascinating due to the different cultures of its distinct regions. There is just so much history here, much of which can be explored in any single city. Many Spanish cities have ancient Roman ruins and Islamic architecture from the Moorish period, medieval castles and fortifications along with Castilian- and Hapsburg-era palaces and mansions. Most also feature many examples of modern Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernist architecture.

The country also represents the pinnacle in all things related to the sheer enjoyment of life: delicious food; great art; amazing music; lively dances; and warm, friendly people. Plan your Spanish adventures with our list of the best places to visit in Spain.

2. Barcelona

3. san sebastian, 4. valencia, 11. costa brava, 12. segovia, 13. tarragona, 14. linares, 15. tenerife, map of places to visit in spain.

Spain's large capital city showcases the country's incredible history. It's a perfect holiday destination, as there are royal palaces, marching soldiers, changing of the guards, and hundreds of museums to visit.

No visit to Madrid is complete without visiting all three of the city's major museums. The Prado Museum (officially called the Museo Nacional del Prado) showcases what was formerly the Spanish royal collection of art, while the nearby Reina Sofia Museum shows modern masterpieces like Picasso's moving Guernica . Also, the nearby Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum combines Old Masters with the best in contemporary art.

Madrid is also a classic, European strolling city, filled with green spaces to enjoy like the Buen Retiro Park , as well as wide, pedestrian-only boulevards like the iconic Gran Via . The food culture also thrives here, from casual tapas tasting cuisine to cutting-edge, Michelin-starred molecular gastronomy.

La Latina, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, has evolved into tapas-central with a plethora of tapas-serving establishments, most with outdoor terraces. It's fun to go from place to place sampling each one's specialties.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Madrid

The second largest city in Spain offers a completely different travel experience compared to Madrid. Its coastal location gives it more of a resort feel, complete with warm, sunny weather to enjoy on most days of the year. It's on the country's northeast coast, by the Mediterranean Sea, and also seems to have a much more modern, progressive vibe than Madrid and other Spanish cities.

Must-see tourist attractions in Barcelona include the city's immense (and perpetually unfinished) Sagrada Familia modern cathedral and the Joan Miro museum , conceived by the iconic artist himself before his death. Other good places to see in Barcelona include the city's almost three miles of beaches and La Rambla , a huge, tree-lined, pedestrian-only street. It's where the entire city seems to come out for a stroll.

Continue to where La Rambla meets the water, and you'll find the Maremagnum shopping mall. It's on its own man-made island, almost completely surrounded by water. You get to it by walking over a very cool wooden drawbridge, called Rambla de Mar. It opens each hour to let sailboats and yachts pass through. Head to La Terraza, the mall's panoramic platform with 360-degree views of the water and city skyline. The city's large aquarium is next to the mall on the same little peninsula and is well worth a visit.

Be sure to take the funicular (incline railway) up to the summit of Tibidabo , a local mountain with a beautiful church and amusement park at the top. You'll also be rewarded with spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

This resort city is on the north coast of Spain , in the Basque region. San Sebastian is right on the scenic Bay of Biscay, which opens to the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular surf town , with quite a surfing scene at Playa de Zurriola. A visit also provides the opportunity to experience the unique Basque culture.

Things to do here include spending some time on the sandy beach of La Concha or maybe hiking up Monte Orgull, the fortress-topped mountain overlooking the city's harborside old town area. It's also fun to spend time in that cobblestoned old town, called Parte Vieja. The neighborhood is filled with really nice, locally owned shops and lots of places to sit and enjoy pintxos (the Basque version of tapas).

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in San Sebastian

Orange tree in Plaza de la Reina, Valencia

Valencia is a port city with a long connection to the sea and to Spain's trade with the world, especially with Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It's on the Mediterranean Sea, on the country's southeastern coast. As a coastal city, there are some nice beaches to enjoy. Another outdoor place to see is Albufera Park , a beachside wetlands reserve with a lot of hiking trails (and some good beaches).

The city has many museums. A highlight is the Museum of Fine Arts (Museu de Belle Arts de Valencia), with its excellent collection of Spanish masters by artists like El Greco and Goya. There's also a large, Gothic-style cathedral in the medieval center of the old city along with remnants of the old city walls.

Be sure to visit the Torres de Serranos, one of the only standing gates to the walled city and a prison for over 300 years. The National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts, "González Martí," is filled with cool stuff. Spanish decorative arts is the focus here, with an incredible collection of ceramics, traditional costumes, and furniture. Kids will love the Natural Science Museum and its large collection of dinosaur skeletons.

When you get hungry, head to the city's Mercado Central , a vast Art Nouveau-style market hall (built in 1914) filled with food vendors and cafés (along with souvenir shops and other tourist-type businesses). Although it's a popular tourist attraction, you'll be surrounded by locals, too, as it's where they go to eat and hang out.

Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Valencia

Home to the spectacular Alhambra Moorish hilltop palace and fortress , Granada is another vibrant destination in the southern region of Andalusia . It features more incredible examples of Islamic architecture, including the Alhambra castle complex. There's an entire preserved Moorish old town area called The Albaicín, with narrow streets and most buildings dating from the 8 th , 9 th , and 10 th centuries. It's a great tourist destination, as you can experience ancient and modern Spain in the same place.

Granada also puts you close to Europe's most southern ski resort area: Sierra Nevada. Only 42 kilometers (26 miles) outside Granada, the large resort has over 100 runs served by 17 lifts and two cable cars. The high elevation means the ski season can run from late November through early May. Sierra Nevada is only 164 kilometers (102 miles) from the sunny beaches of Málaga. This means you can ski in the morning and spend the afternoon at the beach (or vice-versa).

There's a big university in Granada and a thriving modern cultural world, with delicious food, places to go for tapas, and flamenco music and dance. Royal Spain is represented here with an ornate, 16th-century cathedral, which houses the tombs of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, who united the country (and sponsored Christopher Columbus' journeys of discovery).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Granada

One of the best vacation spots in Spain for couples is the resort island of Ibiza. It's a short flight or a five- to six-hour ferry ride away, and is located about 100 miles off the Spanish coast. Ibiza is the largest of the Balearic Islands , a group of mainly resort islands in the Mediterranean Sea. The other three largest islands, Mallorca , Menorca, and Formentera are also popular places to see in Spain.

Ibiza may be best known for electronic music, beach parties, and massive dance clubs, but it's also filled with a lot of great family resorts and lots of fun things to see and do with kids. It has something for everyone and is a good destination for singles, couples, and families. Resort areas on Ibiza include Portinatx in the north, San Antonio in the west, and Santa Eulalia in the east.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Ibiza

This ancient city in the Andalusian region in the south of Spain allows you to explore Spain's history going back several thousand years to the time when it was a part of the Roman Empire. Córdoba was an important Roman city (called Corduba), and many ruins and preserved Roman sites remain, including a 16-arch bridge across the Guadalquivir River.

Córdoba was a major Islamic center during the Middle Ages, and has some incredible architecture from that time period, the highlight being the city's large mosque. Called La Mezquita, the mosque was built in the 8 th century and later converted into a Christian church in the 13 th century. There is also a long Jewish history in the city (and all over Spain), and a 14 th -century synagogue can be visited in the medieval Judería or Jewish quarter.

Cordoba has many museums. The Museo Arqueológico de Córdoba presents the city's (and Spain's) history going back thousands of years. An added attraction, the museum is on the site of Cordoba's ancient Roman theater. The theater has been excavated and can be visited in the museum's basement level.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Córdoba & Easy Day Trips

A beautiful and fascinating city in southern Spain, Seville is another example of the country's living history. It's a compact city, great for sightseeing, filled with Roman ruins, Moorish structures and palaces, and Gothic churches from Castilian rule (the period when Spain was ruled by kings and queens).

Islamic history and culture is especially rich here, as the city was the capital of the ruling Moorish dynasty for most of the time it was under their control. It also blossomed during Spain's Golden Age, from the 15 th to 18 th centuries, when it was the only port allowed to officially receive trade from Spanish colonies in the Americas.

Music and dance is also taken very seriously here, as Seville is the home of flamenco dancing and the related musical style. Flamenco can be enjoyed in Tirana, a neighborhood filled with small cafés and performance venues. Santa Cruz is another popular area to explore; it's home to the city's huge Gothic cathedral and the royal palace complex, called the Real Alcazar . The palace, originally built for the city's Islamic rulers, is real living history, as the current Spanish royal family uses it when they're in town.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Seville

This northern Spanish city is the capital of the Basque region , which can feel like a different country. It's part of Spain but officially considered an "autonomous community." The language (also called Basque) here is different from other parts of Spain, as are the food, music, and overall culture. The 1997 opening of the incredible curvy, titanium-clad, Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum really put this former gritty industrial port city on the world tourism map as a must-visit place to see in Spain.

In addition to the art inside the museum, it's surrounded by what's known as the Art District. Here, you can find oversized pieces of art and sculpture too large to be viewed inside a building. It's great for Instagram pics.

Cultural and tourism highlights include the incredible Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the Plaza Berria (a big public square with lots of cool shopping and dining), and taking a stroll across the Zubizuri pedestrian bridge.

Another great example of the vast cultural differences between Spanish cities, Málaga highlights the country's North African influence. It's on the Spanish Costa del Sol (only a short ferry ride from Africa), which is filled with a lot of generic, over-developed resort areas. Málaga is a large resort city but retains its Spanish (and African) roots as a port city.

Picasso was born here, and the city is home to a large museum featuring an impressive collection of his work. Like many other southern Spanish cities, there is a Moorish/Islamic influence here in the architecture and art. Two Moorish hilltop fortresses remain, the Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro . There's also a large Renaissance-style cathedral.

The history and culture is balanced with a forest of modern, generic residential and rental apartment buildings, all fighting for ocean views. The region's warm and sunny weather makes it a popular second home destination for residents of the UK and other colder European countries. Málaga's beachfront and harbor areas are fun places to visit and offer some of the area's typically wonderful food, especially seafood.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Malaga

Another great vacation spot in Spain is the stunning Costa Brava area of Catalonia. This is on the northern Mediterranean coast of the country, north of Barcelona, extending to the border with France. It's filled with small beaches; rugged cliffs; and lots of small coves, bays, and inlets. Popular seaside resort towns on the Costa Brava include Blanes , Tossa de Mar , and Lloret de Mar . Take a day to explore (and snorkel around) the uninhabited Medes Islands , a short boat ride away.

Another cool place for sightseeing is a ruined, hilltop monastery, the Monasterio de Sant Pere de Rodes . Although it's a ruin, most of the structures of the buildings, including the massive church, are intact. The monastery is in the Cap de Creus natural park area, quite near the town of Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dali . The town is home to the large Dali Museum, which the artist himself had a hand in designing and planning.

The Spanish city of Segovia is in central Spain, northwest of Madrid. The area is rich with Roman ruins and was also a key city in the post-medieval period of royal rule. There's a Gothic cathedral (with a fascinating museum of religious art) located on the city's Plaza Mayor main square. The Plaza Mayor area is a haven for foodies, as it's filled with restaurants, cafés, and places to get tapas.

Sightseeing highlights in Segovia include the Moorish Alcazar fortress and castle , which was believed to be an inspiration for Walt Disney when creating Cinderella's Castle for his theme parks. Other must-see attractions include the incredible, double-decked ancient Roman aqueduct and the city's massive 16 th -century Gothic cathedral.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Segovia

With the ruins of a Roman amphitheater and a Roman circus chariot race track, Tarragona is one of the best places to see remnants of the ancient Roman world in Spain. It's a port city in the Catalonia region , located in the northeastern part of the country. Known as "Tarraco" in ancient Roman times, the city has a 2 nd -century arena, a necropolis of Roman tombs, and it even retains traces of the ancient forum. All this Roman history exists inside and around the medieval walled Old Town area.

There's a long stretch of a two-story Roman aqueduct, which can be explored. Tarragona's National Archeological Museum presents an excellent overview of the city's history and showcases a vast collection of fascinating Roman (and older) artifacts.

When you've finished exploring the Roman history, head to Tarragona's beautiful beachfront resort area and enjoy the clear, aqua blue water of the Balearic Sea.

A pilgrimage site for guitarists and flamenco guitar music lovers, Linares is the birthplace of Maestro Andres Segovia. The master guitarist elevated the instrument to the highest levels of musicianship. His performances around the world helped make the guitar a serious instrument now included with symphonic and orchestra music.

The Andres Segovia Foundation - Museum, housed in a restored 17th-century palace, showcases the life of Segovia, allowing visitors a chance to see his music, instruments, and other personal effects. The museum also contains a crypt with the tomb of the Maestro.

Linares is a city in the Andalusia region , about a 90-minute drive from either Cordoba or Granada.

The largest of Spain's Canary Islands, Tenerife offers the full resort experience. It also offers some of Spain's best golf. The islands are in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Morocco, but their popularity as a resort destination means there are frequent flights from Spain and other European cities.

The Abama Golf resort gives players the chance to play a round on the side of a volcano. Playing the course feels like exploring a botanical garden with over 300 species of subtropical plants, combined with more than 20,000 palm trees and 22 lakes. The main draw here (aside from the challenging course) are the views. The entire course is elevated, and almost every hole has postcard views of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighboring island of La Gomera. Aside from golf, the resort has luxurious accommodation, multiple fine dining options, and a world-class spa.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Tarragona & Easy Day Trips

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

Spain is one of the most popular destinations on the planet. Every year, millions flock to Barcelona , Madrid and the rest for magnificent experiences – and grand, old, beautiful España delivers every time. Despite its popularity, Spain has plenty of places to get away from the crowds – rather than get too comfy on the beaches or in familiar metropolises, it’s well worth diving into its smaller cities, towns and underrated destinations .

By all means, make the most of those beaches and make fast friends in the cities. But save some energy for the national parks, the cultural richness and fascinating history of this enveloping country. You’ll find secret wineries, romantic castles, symbolic mountains and more, in a country that is as varied as it is fantastic.

So, wondering where to start? Hit up our selection of Spain’s very best places to visit, and it’ll open up your eyes to its full glory.

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Best places to visit in Spain

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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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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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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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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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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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.

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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.

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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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🏖 The best things to do in Benidorm

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.

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🛏 The best hotels in Benalmádena

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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The 10 best places to visit in Italy

This famous country is packed with iconic cities, gorgeous towns and villages, incredible beaches and all the rest.

The 11 best places to visit in Greece

Even looking beyond that whole ‘origin of Western culture’ thing, Greece is a wonder of iconic cities, stunning architecture, incredible food and more islands than you can count.

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Spain Travel Guide

Land of pristine beaches, fragrant orangeries, delicious paellas, architectural highlights, siesta, and fiesta.

Best time to visit Spain

How to rent a car in spain, best places to visit in spain, caminito del rey: hike spain’s once most dangerous path, alhambra palace: the gem of granada, spain, seville, spain: 14 best things to do, 14 best things to do in valencia (city trip guide), map of spain, weather in spain.

Spain’s weather is fantastic year-round, particularly in Spring and Fall when you’ll have warm and sunny days perfect for sightseeing. The coldest time is December - March, but in the south, temperatures can still reach the 20s. For more distinct seasons (and even snow), choose mountainous cities like Granada.

Andalusia Road Trip: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

11 best things to do in ronda, spain, setenil de las bodegas: the cave village of spain, granada, spain: best things to do (travel guide), córdoba, spain: 8 best things to do in the city of flowers, 6 most beautiful white villages of andalusia, spain, iznajar: southern spain’s hidden gem (best things to do), 10 best things to do in palma de mallorca, popular spanish cities, best things to do in madrid, spain, best things to do in barcelona (travel guide), malaga, spain: 16 best things to do on the costa del sol, how to rent a car in spain, best travel insurances, how to plan a trip.

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Why is Spain worth visiting?

Famous for toe-tapping flamenco dancing and delicious Paella, Spain is a melting pot of cultural flavors. In the north, discover green hills and an Atlantic coastline, and in the south, desert-like mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Add artsy adventures in cities like Barcelona, and you’re onto a winner.

Is Spain cheap to visit?

Spain is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe to visit! Although there are some more expensive spots in bigger cities like Madrid, you can still find a mouthwatering ‘menu del dia’ (menu of the day) for $10 or stay in beautiful accommodations for under $50 a night.

Can I drink tap water in Spain?

In Spain, sip confidently from the tap – the water is safe to drink! Bring a reusable bottle to top up at your hotel or at one of the many fountains, and stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Spain?

Most travelers from the EU, the US, and many other countries can enter Spain for up to 90 days (within a 180-day period) without a visa.

Tip: Check your country’s entry requirements in advance so you can travel with ease on your tapas-filled adventure!

What language do they speak in Spain?

In Spain, the language is lilting Spanish, although you will find differing dialects in some regions. Although many people in hotels and restaurants speak English, make your travel experience even more memorable by connecting with locals, offering a warm “Buenos Dias” (good morning) as you explore.

Do I need travel insurance for Spain?

Travel insurance is a must for your trip to Spain so you can enjoy worry-free activities, from surfing to flamenco dancing. It protects you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care.

Is Spain safe?

While Spain is generally safe, some petty crime does occur. It’s always good to exercise caution by leaving any valuables at home and keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in busier cities. However, in general, Spain’s warm, relaxed hospitality provides a safe environment for your trip!

What power plug type does Spain have?

The plug standard in Spain is a two-pin plug for a socket, also known as plug type F and type C. Many European countries use this plug type, making it easy to stay connected. If you need an adaptor, you can easily buy one at the airport or local stores.

Why do people love Spain?

Spain is loved by people worldwide for its slow pace of life, outdoor dining scene, pristine beaches, and vibrant fiesta. Whether you’re looking for buzzing beach clubs in Malaga, Moorish palaces in Granada, or a road trip adventure through the mountainous white villages of Andalusia, this nation offers diverse experiences.

Spain Travel

Vacation vibes are a way of life in beautiful Spain! The weather in Spain is fantastic year-round, so you can enjoy fruity sangria in the sun, take relaxing siestas in the afternoon, and dance the night away at street fiestas. Culture, food, parties, and beautiful landscapes unite to create an extraordinarily colorful and exciting way of life.

How to Plan Your Trip to Spain

Follow our Spain travel guides to plan the ultimate trip! Whether you’re backpacking around the country and looking for affordable and lively destinations, or you’re yearning for a metropolitan city trip, we’ve got you covered. Discover the best places in Spain, like ancient Seville , artsy Barcelona , or ancient Granada .

Want to visit Spain for longer? Follow our 2-week Andalusia itinerary in the south of the country for the ultimate mix of culture, beach time, and mountain hikes.

Best Time to Visit Spain

Planning your perfect Spain holiday? Find out about the weather in Spain to choose the best time to discover some of the country’s most popular regions!

High Season (May-September): The most popular time to visit Spain is in the summer (also the high season), which brings the hottest temperatures and endless days of sunshine perfect for enjoying the beaches. Although there may be more crowds during this time, it’s the best time to visit Spain if you’re an ocean lover, so you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, and SUP boarding on tranquil waters, particularly on the east and south coasts.

Shoulder Season (March, April, May, October, November) : The best time to visit Spain is the shoulder months during Spring and Fall when skies are still clear, and temperatures are mild, making it perfect for city sightseeing, hiking, or camping.

Low Season (November-February) : Winters in most of Spain are still sunny and mild unless you visit mountainous regions or the north, where you’ll find colder temperatures and sometimes even snow. It’s also an excellent time for budget travelers and backpacking in Spain, as it’s considered the low season, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Best time to visit Spain for festivals: If you want to experience the fiesta culture (one of the best things to do in Spain!), you’ll be pleased to hear that something is happening almost every month. However, spring sees some of the most significant events. For example, the Las Fallas festival in March in Valencia , the Feria in April in Seville, or the courtyard flower festival in Cordoba during May.

Whatever you’re looking for, every season in Spain has its charm, so whether you’re chasing seasonal food, adrenaline adventures, or relaxing beach days, you’ll find the perfect time to explore each destination in our Spain travel guides.

Coastlines and Beaches in Spain

The rolling green hills, sheer cliffs, and horseshoe bays of Spain’s northern Atlantic coast are totally different from the turquoise Mediterranean blues and honey-sand shores of the south. Surfers will love the more rugged northern beaches or the windy southern tip of Spain in places like Tarifa, where surfing and kite surfing are popular. For those who want sunbeds and upmarket beach bars, the coastline near Malaga offers plenty of choice. Alternatively, head for the rocky coves with crystal clear water, perfect for snorkeling on the Costa Blanca below Valencia on your vacation in Spain.

Prefer island life? Head offshore to the incredible Balearic islands to discover some of the best places in Spain! Discover tiny islands like Formentera with white sand and clear oceans, the world-famous nightlife and bohemian culture of Ibiza, or the sheer cliffs and narrow mountainous roads of Mallorca.

Tip: For those who want an adventure on their Spain holiday, Mallorca is perfect for biking, hiking, kayaking, and boating as you explore the diverse landscapes that lie just a few hours away by ferry from the mainland.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Spain

Spain offers some of the most unique architectural and culinary wonders in Europe. Here, locals gather to enjoy plate after plate of tapas, as they sit in the shadow of ancient historical buildings, vibrant street art, and innovative abstract sculptures.

Food: Savoring the flavors of each unique region is one of the best things to do in Spain. Discover a foodie paradise where meals last for hours as Spaniards chat and laugh in the warm evening temperatures. Day-to-day life operates outside, so get ready to see the beach become the living room and the street the kitchen as you sample seafood paellas, mouthwatering tapas, rich cheesecakes, and seasonal vegetables.

Religion: Religion forms the backbone of many of Spain’s most important cultural events and buildings, with the majority of the population practicing catholicism. The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona (which has taken 140 years to complete!) is one of the most important religious and cultural monuments in the country. Other famous religious events take place throughout Spain, like the pilgrimage along the famous Camino de Santiago walking path, which is still hiked by many today, and there are hundreds of religious festivals held throughout the country, especially during Spain’s Easter week (Semana Santa).

Culture: Spain is unique in other ways too — an extraordinary time capsule to the past, despite being a modern country. See beautifully preserved buildings, charming cobbled streets, impressive cathedrals, and sweet mountain villages. However, dig deeper and discover Spain’s spirited and fun side. Street art breathes life into cities with bright, colorful, imaginative murals. Architects and artists are pushing the limits with their phenomenal designs, from the futuristic ‘City of Arts and Sciences’ in Valencia to the weird and wonderful designs of Gaudi in Barcelona (one of the best things to do in Spain).

Why You Should Travel to Spain

With such an intricate history deeply rooted in both Christianity and Islam, the culture and architecture in Spain are unrivaled. Here, ancient cathedrals open their doors to Moorish designs and orange-filled patios, and innovative modern architecture sits next to cobbled flower-filled streets.

Although known for its fantastic beaches, its landscapes are extremely diverse, from rolling green hills, thick forests, and roaring waterfalls in the north to snow-capped mountains, hilltop pueblos, and turquoise Mediterranean shorelines in the south. With a northern tip that touches France and a southern tip that almost touches Africa, it’s no surprise that there’s a landscape for every type of vacation in Spain.

Safety and Travel Advice in Spain

Safety in Spain is generally very good. However, petty theft can occur, especially in bigger cities where organized crime is more common, like Barcelona. Exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night and sticking to well-lit spots with more people.

Learn more about travel safety

Car theft: Though rare, car theft does happen from rental cars, especially in popular beach destinations around Spain. Because of this, always be mindful of where you park, and don’t leave anything on display inside.

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things to do before your Spain holiday is purchase travel insurance. Although Spain itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury, canceled flight, or lost baggage. Check out these best travel insurances.

28 Places to Visit in Spain

Spain is an incredible country to visit with stunning beaches and ever-changing countryside, including the mountains of the Basque area and open plains of Madrid. Spain is large, so there are regional differences in culture, food, wine, and dialects. Never be in a hurry when you are exploring Spain, as the tiny little known places are the best and often, along with its people, make the greatest memories.

Table of Contents

28 Famous Places to Visit in Spain

Plaza Mayor - 3 days in Madrid what to do and see

Spain’s capital city is situated in the center of the country and is a wonderful mixture of culture, elegant boulevards, and gorgeous green spaces like Retiro Gardens. The Prado is one of the greatest art museums in the world. The magnificent architecture of Madrid gives visitors an insight into the power of the Spanish Empire during the 16-17 th centuries.

The Gran Via is the place to start exploring the city, as it is the focus for shopping and entertainment and buzzes all day and night. There are malls, cinemas, and theatres and late at night, the city’s top nightclubs burst into action.

Mercado San Miguel is Madrid ’s art nouveau style indoor market that showcases the gastronomic delights of Spain. This is the perfect place to enjoy tapas and watch the world go by. In contrast, El Rastro on a Sunday is the huge flea market with 3,500 stalls for browsing.

2. Barcelona

Barcelona - Famous places to visit in Spain

The second city of Spain and the capital of Catalonia is Barcelona. Cosmopolitan and famous for its art and architecture, Barcelona is a ‘must-see’ city with beaches, 20 Michelin stars for its food, and great nightlife.

The main pedestrian precinct is Las Ramblas with the Plaça de Catalunya fountains at the top end and the waterfront at the other. Las Ramblas has numerous side streets and shops and is where everyone converges. Barcelona is full of architecture by Antoni Gaudi and his best-known work is Sagrada Familia. Work continues on this lavish church. When it is finished, its spires will be the tallest church spires in the world.

Boqueria Market was built in 1914 with an iron and glass roof. It is a good place to enjoy pintxos – larger than usual tapas – including Pa amb tomàquet , which are circles of bread topped with tomato pulp and olive oil.

3. Valencia

Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe - two days in Valencia

This fascinating port city on the south-east coast is known as the city of ‘arts and sciences’ and is also home to the most famous Spanish dish – Paella. The old part of the city is medieval. The most famous building is the 15th century UNESCO listed Lonja de la Seda – the Silk Exchange. Built when Valencia was one of Europe’s leading trading centers, this was where merchants from all over Europe would meet and deal. Valencia Cathedral was built in the 14 th century and El Miguelette is its famous octagonal bell tower.

The amazing Oceanarium built in 2003, is the largest in Europe with 45,000 marine animals divided into ten geographical zones. The Planetarium is equally as dramatic and the interactive museum is lots of fun. Jardin del Turia is nine kilometers of green space running through the city center and was once the riverbed of the diverted river Turia.

Granada is one of the best places to visit in Spain

In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains stands Granada . This city has a 700-year Moorish heritage. Its hilltop Alhambra complex is incredibly beautiful and Spain’s most visited monument. Built between the 13-15th centuries, it was home to the ruling Nasrid sultans. There is a fortress, palaces, courtyards, and gardens.

The 16 th century Granada Cathedral is the second largest in Spain and was built on the site of the Grand Mosque. The cathedral has an impressive interior with numerous chapels. Next door stands the Royal Chapel, where several Roman Catholic kings are buried.

The old Moorish city is fascinating. In the Sacromonte district there are cave dwellings where flamenco dancers performed – and still do. Alcaiceria was once the Grand Bazaar, where traveling merchants sold fine silks and spices. Today, it is packed with souvenirs including Fajalauza hand-painted ceramics. Enjoy tapas in Granada as it was born in the Andalusia region.

Capital of the southern Andalusian region and rich in Moorish heritage, Seville is famous for flamencos, tapas, and oranges. In the springtime, it is filled with the perfume of jasmine and orange blossom. Seville Cathedral is the largest in the world and has 80 chapels inside, plus the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Next to it stands La Giralda – the bell tower which was once a minaret. Climbing up it inside, there is no staircase, but 34 ramps so the muezzin who called prayers could reach the top on horseback!

Other places to visit include the 14 th century beautiful Real Alcázar Palace, still used by the Spanish royal family, the huge curved monument of Plaza de España, the Maria Luisa Park, and the Triana neighborhood (bullfighting arena) on the other side of the Guadalquivir river. At Plaza de Altzano you will see the famous statue of a flamenco dancer.

1,000 years ago, Córdoba in southern Spain was the largest city in the world and the capital of the Caliphate of Córdoba which controlled much of the Iberian peninsula. Today, in the old town stands the magnificent cathedral of Córdoba which was once a mosque. It dates from the 900s when the city was Europe’s leading city for science and culture, it became a church in 1276 and is well known for its 850 columns and distinctive horseshoe archways.

Alcazar de Los Reyes Christianos is a huge royal compound and its gardens alone cover 55,000 square meters. The historic center of the city is delightful to explore on foot, through winding alleyways with inner courtyards. The cobble-stoned streets of what was the Jewish Quarter are also very attractive. There is the Augustan bridge over the Guadalquivir, Calahorra Tower, and Medina Azahara to see, so visitors are never lost for things to do!

Situated in northern Spain, Burgos sits on the famous Camino de Santiago. This delightful medieval city has plenty of interesting places to explore, beginning with its mighty cathedral. The inside of this magnificent building is impressive and the main altar is decorated with statues adorned with gold leaf. In complete contrast, the Museum of Human Evolution is very modern and thought-provoking. The most prized exhibit is the human skeleton uncovered at the nearby Atapuerca archaeological site, which is believed to be the oldest in the world.

The castle stands high above the city, but it is worth the effort to climb up to see it, as the views are incredible. As you walk back through the Old Town, be sure to see the impressive old gateway, decorated with statues of kings and noblemen. Another place worth visiting is Monastero de las Huelgas, one of the best-known monasteries in Spain.

8. Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) of Andalucia

Houses built into rocks at Cuevas de la Sombra Street - Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalusia, Spain

Get well off the beaten track and explore the white villages of Andalucia , surrounded by mountain scenery. They are situated in Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra Nevada and the only way to see them is by car- which can be completed in one day. All the villages have small white-washed houses and a daily life that has changed little in generations.

Several of them are situated in National Parks, whilst Salobeña enjoys a climate perfect for growing sugar cane and tropical fruit. Setenil de las Bodegas has amazing houses built under the overhanging rocks and in caves. Zahara de la Sierra is famous for its Fiesta del Corpus Christi at Easter. Ronda ’s International Folk Festival in late August/ early September attracts folk dance groups from 50 countries. Later in September, Feria Goyesco sees villagers dressing up in 18th-century costumes and there is a large bullfight.

9. Mallorca (Majorca)

Palacio Real de La Almudaina is one of the things to see in Mallorca

This beautiful island is one of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, known for its mountains, villages, gorgeous beaches, and secluded coves. Mallorca is a popular holiday island, so there are several large resort towns, with hotels, pubs, and souvenir shops, but there is another side to the island, that is very unspoiled and Spanish. Palma, the island’s capital, is rich in history with the Almudena royal palace and cathedral. The cathedral has visually stunning architecture and an interior designed by Antoni Gaudi.

Getting around Mallorca is easy. Santa Catalina is an attractive neighborhood with a huge indoor market. A must-see is the pretty fishing village of Cala Figuera and the nearby large sea arch of Es Pontàs. Cap de Pera, with its lighthouse and views, is great for hikers and the sunsets there are very romantic. A sunrise hike in the mountains near Sóller is equally memorable.

By Emily from Wander-Lush

Known as the Imperial City, Toledo in Castilla-La Mancha is one of the best places to visit in Spain for history and culture buffs.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, Toledo’s urban landscape embodies the mix of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish influences that characterize this part of the country. The city’s main landmarks, including the Bisagra Gate, Plaza de Zocodover, and stunning Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue, are each an architectural delight to behold.

The iconic Renaissance artist El Greco lived here for a time, and visiting his museum is now a must-do in Toledo . Walk the Don Quixote literary trail that winds through the city’s charming streets, stopping for a traditional marzipan treat at Santo Tomé, before crossing the emerald-green Tagus river via the 14th-century San Martin’s pedestrian bridge. Every footstep you take in Toledo is steeped in history and tradition.

Toledo can be reached from Madrid by road or train in just over an hour, making it a convenient day trip from the capital.

11. Picos de Europe

The Lakes of Covadonga. The Lake Enol is a small highland lake in the Principality of Asturias, Spain. It is located in the Picos de Europa

By Kevin from Kevmrc.com

Picos de Europa is the first National Park in Spain, and it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Spain. Created in 1918 around the Lagos de Covadonga, it has since greatly expanded. It now spans over 3 regions of Spain: Castilla y Leon, Asturias, and Cantabria. If you love hiking, then you’re in luck; there are plenty of epic hikes in Picos de Europa :

Lagos de Covadonga hike
Ruta del Cares
Poncebos to Bulnes hike

Even if you’re not up for long hikes, don’t worry. You can literally drive to some pretty amazing places, like the Lagos de Covadonga, 2 alpine lakes in the heart of the mountains. The lakes will be a few footsteps away from the parking spot. And of course, you shouldn’t miss the Teleferico Fuente Dé. The cable car will take you high up the mountains, where you’ll have an absolutely epic view over the valley below.

12. Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura - The best places to surf around the world

By Ucman from Brown Boy Travels

Weirdly shaped, not much talked about with a name that doesn’t roll off the tongue smoothly any which way, Fuerteventura is an underrated island. The Canary Island gets all the publicity but not many people know or care to know about this beautiful island which has its own international airport, ferry port, and plenty of things to see and do.

The sunsets from the lighthouse in El Cotillo and the beaches of Playas Grandes are in the north. Morro Jable has some stunning beaches in the south with a distant view of Lanzarote and the entire coastline is full of beaches, one more stunning than last.

Fuerteventura is also famous for its kite surfing scene and has a few schools for all levels, the wind is just perfect for the sport, other water-sports are also popular here. The island itself is beautiful with vast desert landscapes in all shades of red, it almost feels like Mars.

Fuerteventura is definitely a place you fall in love with and visit more than once.

13. Monserrat

Santa Maria de Montserrat - famous places in Spain

By Michael from The World Was Here First

One of the best places to visit in Spain is the beautiful region of Montserrat. Located only about one hour from the Catalonian capital, it’s incredibly easy to visit Montserrat as a day trip from Barcelona or stay overnight if you really want to get to know the area.

Montserrat is famous for its jagged mountain scenery and there are a number of different activities that travellers can enjoy when visiting.

One of the most popular things to do is hike one of the well-marked trails in the region – for example, you can enjoy a 20-minute walk up to Sant Miquel’s Cross or tackle a longer trail such as the 3-hour walk to Sant Jeroni.

If you prefer not to hike, you can instead ride one of the funiculars to places such as to Santa Cova (translated to Holy Cave).

Finally, perhaps the most famous attraction in Montserrat is to visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey where the statue of the Virgin of Montserrat is believed to have healing powers.

By Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World

Most people completely overlook Girona thinking this is just a budget airport hub great to land when heading to Barcelona, or – at most – visit on day trips from Catalonia’s capital. It’s a pity though because Girona has a lot to offer and is a great place to spend a few days.

The capital of Costa Brava sits between the Pyrenees (being a good starting point for some adventurous hikes); it’s close to the Volcanic Region of Garrotxa, and at a stone’s throw from the lovely coves of Costa Brava.

Should you decide to spend a few days there, you will find plenty of things to do in Girona . The historic center is truly well kept: you will spot lots of colorful buildings, scenic plazas, and lots of lovely small local shops. Head to the river for the lovely views of the colorful buildings, and cross Eiffel Bridge (build by the same Eiffel who designed the Eiffel Tower!) to reach one of the access points to the City Walls. You can walk along them for impressive views of the city, and to reach the beautiful Cathedral, in front of which there is an impressive staircase.

Other places you should not miss are the Jewish Quarter and the Arab Baths. Girona also has lots of good museums and art galleries, and an incredible restaurant scene. The most famous restaurant is El Celler de Can Roca – which however you need to book in advance.

15. Gran Canaria

Warmest Places in Europe to Visit in December - Gran Canaria

By Stefan Arestis of Nomadic Boys gay travel blog

Gran Canaria is one of the main islands of Spain’s Canary Islands archipelago, located off the coast of northwest Africa. We love them because whatever time of year you choose to come, you’re always guaranteed sunshine and beach – even in the cold winter months.

Maspalomas and Las Palmas are the main cities of Gran Canaria where most will base themselves. Maspalomas is also where the bulk of the island’s nightlife can be found, particularly the gay scene of Gran Canaria in the Yumbo Centre, which has become world-famous! Gran Canaria has some spectacular landscapes to explore.

The most famous is the UNESCO listed Roque Nublo, located right in the heart of the island. It is an 80-meter-high rock, created by volcanic eruption millions of years ago. Other highlights of the island include sailing trips, water sports (like jet ski), scuba diving, snorkeling, and a camel ride along the Maspalomas Nature Reserve.

16. Santiago de Compostella

By Dave Chant, www.davechant.com

Santiago, or Santiago de Compostella to give its full name, is the capital of the autonomous region of Galicia in North West Spain. It is widely known as the destination for pilgrims walking the Way of Saint James, the Camino de Santiago. It’s said that the apostle James remains were brought back here after his death, and later a shepherd was led by a light to a field where he rested – legend has it that Compostella is from “campus stellae”, literally the field of stars, after this story.

It’s a beautiful place to spend time and, with only 100,000 residents, feels more like a big village than a city. It’s compact and its old town was granted UNESCO status in 1985.

The Cathedral is one of the main attractions, and it’s a great place to watch pilgrims come into the city after walking hundreds of miles. It’s being renovated till 2021, but hopeful soon masses will re-occur and the famed “botafumeiro”, the smoke spreader, will be used again in the services.

Other than the Old Town, the Alameda Park makes a nice afternoon stroll, but then it’s just about soaking up the atmosphere. You may never want to leave.

17. Oviedo, Asturias

Oviedo - famous places to visit in Spain

By Ben Holbrook from Driftwood Journals

Think of Spain and it’s likely you think of the flamenco dancers of Seville or Gaudi buildings in Barcelona, but there’s so much more to this dynamic country than you could ever imagine. For a big surprise, head to northern Spain – or “Green Spain” as it’s known due to its verdant landscapes – to the principality of Asturias .

Famed for its friendly people, hearty food, and zesty hard apple cider, this mountainous coastal region boasts its own unique Celtic culture (they play bagpipes and everything!). There’s plenty to explore, but be sure to set plenty of time aside to get to know Oviedo, the region’s colorful capital.

Hop from plaza to plaza, seeking statues and sidrerias (cider bars), before stopping by the awe-inspiring cathedral for a spiritual sojourn. Don’t leave without feasting on a traditional ‘fabada Asturiana’, the locals’ signature stew made with white beans and hunks of chorizo, pork, and morcilla black pudding.

Be warned, however, that you won’t feel like doing much after filling your belly with this beastly dish! But, hey, this is still Spain, so why not stretch out for a siesta in the leafy oasis of Campo de San Francisco (park). You’ll never think of Spain in the same way again!

18. San Sebastian

San Sebastian - Best places to visit in Spain

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

San Sebastián or Donostia as the city is called in the local Basque language is one of the best places to visit in Spain year-round. The city is known for its incredible cuisine and there is a great selection of Michelin star restaurants around.

Before you head out for the evening to try the best restaurants you should go for a hike up Monte Urgull to get the best views of the city from the ancient castle, Castillo de la Mota. If hiking is not for you why not spend the day by one of San Sebastián’s incredible city beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters?

A trip to Santa Clara Island is also an absolute must when visiting San Sebastián. This tiny island lies sheltered in the bay and is perfect for a picnic or a walk. Click here to read about the 22 best things to do in San Sebastián.

19. Tenerife

By Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

Tenerife is like a wonderful version of Spain in miniature. An island filled with varied landscapes and bustling cities packed with history and culture – Tenerife family holidays has a little bit of everything. Part of the Canary Islands, set out in the Atlantic Ocean, despite its proximity to Africa Tenerife is unmistakably European and perfectly Spanish.

Tenerife really does have it all, from pristine white sandy beaches to mountain top towns overflowing with character. The island is home to Spain’s highest mountain, the Pico del Teide which allows itself the perfect spot for hikes, mountain bike rides, and rambles. Head to Santa Cruz, the capital not only of Tenerife but the whole of the Canary Islands for beautiful old-world architecture and museums aplenty.

There are so many activities to enjoy across the island from whale watching in the seas to enjoying fun waterparks and theme parks. There’s also a bit of a foodie revolution in Tenerife with some fantastic restaurants across the island. Tenerife is one of those places that one visit simply won’t be enough to see it all.

20. Segovia

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

This little town is home of two of Spain’s most famous landmarks, the alcázar and the aqueduct of Segovia. Exploring them will delight your inner child, as well as the adult in you that wants to learn about history and marvel at architecture!

The Alcázar is a medieval castle featuring a moat, a drawbridge, pointy turrets, and a keep, exactly what you imagine a castle should look like. That’s why this particularly stunning place inspired Disney’s Cinderella castle, and it’s on so many people’s bucket list .

The aqueduct, on the other hand, is a work of art and engineering left by the Romans. It has more than 160 arches in it extends for over 15 km.

The city also offers its visitors Romanesque churches and a Gothic cathedral, set in a beautifully preserved Old Town, that has been recognized, together with the aqueduct, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

21. Antequera

By Joanna from Andalucia in My Pocket

Antequera is an underestimated destination in Spain, often overlooked in favour to its neighbours Malaga, Granada or Cordoba. Antequera is a quiet town nestled below the mighty cliffs of the Torcal de Antequera, a Unesco Heritage site worth exploring on a day trip. There are so many things to do in Antequera , one of them being exploring the Moorish Alcazaba. To get here you will pass through Arcos de los Gigantes, a giant archway which in the past was holding the statue of Hercules, and which still bares Roman inscriptions in the stone.

Antequera is a town that celebrates love. The Pena de Los Enamorados, visible from the highest points of the town, is a rock that bears a tragedy. The legend says that back in the Moorish times, two lovers of different religions preferred to leap to their deaths from the top of the rock when the soldiers sent to capture them got close. To remember the couple and their eternal love, the city has dedicated a statue to them in the center of the main square.

22. Lanzarote

Warmest Places in Europe to Visit in December - Lanzarote

By Megan from Megan and Aram

Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful islands in the Atlantic and it is part of the Canary Islands (Spain). Despite its small size, the volcanic island is home to three large resorts and is a very popular European destination, and one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Most people jet off to Lanzarote for its beautiful beaches, Timanfaya National Park’s lunar landscapes, and the unique food culture where seafood and potatoes run the show.

Cesar Manrique, one of the most acclaimed architects in Spain, was also from Lanzarote and his designs can be found ubiquitously throughout the island. Another popular place to visit is the Teguise Market that occurs each Sunday. It is the perfect place to find handmade souvenirs, Lanzarote wine, and more.

If you’re looking for an adventurous day trip, you can catch the ferry from Orzola to La Graciosa, the newest Canary Island. On La Graciosa, you will find secluded beaches, surreal landscapes, and many snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. It truly is one of the best places to visit in Lanzarote .

23. Tarragona

Tarragona - Great places to visit in Spain

By Claire from ClairePins Travel

The ancient and charming seaside city of Tarragona offers a range of exciting cultural experiences without the crowds found in many large, well-known Spanish cities.

It is conveniently located on the high-speed rail line, which makes it an easy day trip from Barcelona or an interesting stop on the way down the coast towards Valencia.

Tarragona was founded in the 5 th century as the first Roman colony in Spain, called ‘Tarraco.’ Many Roman sites can still be explored today, including the ruins of a large seaside amphitheater, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Most major attractions, including the 12th-century Gothic cathedral, are within easy walking distance, with the exception of the Ferreres Aqueduct, another major Roman site, which requires a 5-minute drive north of the city.

If you are looking for something to eat, try the Central Market for lunch or wander around town for a casual tapas-style dinner with an accent on fresh seafood. In the afternoon you might enjoy relaxing on the beach or exploring the old fishing neighborhoods. Finish your day in Tarragona with a stroll on the oceanfront pedestrian boulevard as the sun sets.

24. Menorca

By By Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Menorca is one of the four main Balearic Islands in Spain, located in the Balearic Sea off the east coast of the mainland. But while some of this group of islands have been developed extensively, Menorca remains largely in its natural state. And with its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, it’s set to stay that way.

Adorned with historical sites and natural treasures, it’s an absolute pleasure to discover. Walk the circular Cami de Cavalls trail that circles the island and you’ll pass by some of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches , through ancient forests, and by beautiful natural parks and reserves where wildlife congregate. Menorca’s towns and villages are a joy to explore too, each with its own unique character.

Head to Mahon, the main town, to dine under palm trees in open squares, or head to the former capital of the island, Ciutadella to uncover the rich history of the island. Whichever way you choose to enjoy the island, you’ll soon be won over by its unique appeal.

Warmest Places in Europe in December - Malaga

By Sasha Naslin fromThe Alternative Travel Guide

Malaga should definitely be on your Spain bucket list, as it is a city with a fascinating history and tons of attractions. Modern Malaga was greatly influenced by the Islamic period: the Moors ruled Malaga for 775 years.

A reminder of the Arab era is the medieval Moorish palace Alcazaba and a hammam Al-Andalus. Malaga is a city that has it all: a long sandy beach, an important port, rich culture, and a strong economy. Direct flights from most European capitals make the city very attractive for travelers. Besides, the weather is always pleasant here, so winter Malaga is just as good as summer Malaga.

Malaga has many museums and parks, including an ancient botanical garden. One of the symbols of the city is the painter Pablo Picasso, who was born in Malaga. You can visit his house, as well as the Picasso Museum and the church where he was baptized. Food lovers will appreciate Malaga for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine. If you come to Malaga, don’t miss to taste fried fish, shellfish, oysters, shrimp, and famous Andalusian wines.

Merida in Badajoz Roman amphitheater at Spain

By Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads

Merida is a beautiful city in Extremadura, the south of Spain with a long and interesting history. The original settlement, Emerita Augusta was founded by the Romans in 25BC as a place of retirement for veteran soldiers. Merida is a must-visit place in Spain for history and architecture lovers. The number of well-preserved Roman ruins in the city is impressive.

In fact, Merida has more important ancient Roman monuments than any other city in Spain. Attractions not to miss in Merida include the Roman Bridge, Acueducto de Los Milagros, the Circus Maximus, the Amphitheater, and the Temple of Diana. Merida is situated on the Via de la Plata one of the pilgrimage routes of the Camino de Santiago that starts in Seville and finishes in Santiago de Compostela. For its cultural value, in 1993 Merida was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Spring is the best time to visit Merida when the fields surrounding the city and the ruins are covered in flowers.

By Leyla from Women on the Road

For years Bilbao was bypassed by visitors to Spain. Its politics were violent, and other cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Sevilla seemed more inviting. But then two important events threw open Bilbao’s doors: the Guggenheim museum was inaugurated and the separatists agreed to a ceasefire. By 2011, Bilbao was bursting with welcome.

The city is a contrast of old and new and not far from the architecturally stunning Guggenheim you can stroll through the ancient streets of Casco Viejo, where life goes on much as it has for years. In the evening, locals go bar-hopping – known as txikitear , a uniquely Basque custom of sampling different wines and a variety of pintxos .

Bilbao, like the rest of the Basque region, is one of Spain’s foodie heartlands. Beyond the pintxos and exquisite restaurants, head for the Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest covered market and an architectural curiosity.

For a deep dive into Bilbao’s contrasting cultures, there’s Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center (and former wine warehouse) where there’s always something to see. Sprinkled throughout the city are extraordinary examples of Art Nouveau, alongside modern creations such as Calatrava’s White Bridge. A visit to Bilbao is an exploration of culture, gastronomy, architecture, and art. The city will not leave you indifferent.

28. Torrevieja Pink Lake

Pink salt lake in Torrevieja. Province of Alicante,

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

Torrevieja Pink Lake is definitely one of the best places to visit in Spain if you haven’t seen a bubble-gum pink lake. In Spanish, this salt lake is called Laguna Rosa gets the color from algae and bacteria that grows in salty spaces.

You can easily visit the lake from Torrevieja or a day trip from Alicante. The only way to get closer to the lake is by driving a car as the public transport doesn’t go to the lake.

The Pink Lake is quite big, with different entrances marked on Google Maps. One of them is via Via Verde de Torrevieja and Calle Munera streets, where the shore is clearer, enabling you to get closer to the lake.

It’s free to visit, but be cautious as bathing in the salty lake is forbidden and might result in a fine. However, some sources say it’s allowed.

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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

With its sunny climate, thousands of years of history, and colourful culture, Spain is a dream travel destination for many. However, with its vast landscapes, world-famous coastline, and wide stretches of mountain range, it’s hard to know where to start! Here, Jeremy Head, author of Frommer’s Guide to Seville, Granada, and the Best of Andalusia, chooses his favourite spots in the country…

1. Pueblos Blancos, Andalucia

pueblo blanco villages - beautiful places to visit in Spain

I love this place! White-washed villages dot the rugged hillsides in central Andalucia, and they seem almost to defy gravity in places. Formerly farming villages, many fell into disrepair as the younger generation headed to the cities searching for work.

Now, locals and overseas visitors alike have rediscovered their charm. The narrow streets, whitewashed houses, pretty old churches, and flower-strewn squares have been restored; to me, they look picture-perfect! I think they’re seriously Insta-worthy, but I would suggest taking the time to soak up the charming vibe as well.

My favourite villages include Grazalema, Vejer de la Frontera, and Arcos de la Frontera, so ensure you include these on your itinerary.

Location: Cádiz and Málaga in Southern Spain.
Best time to visit: spring to avoid the crowds and see the wildflowers.

My favourite highlights…

Exploring the pretty narrow cobbled streets fully soaking up the charm of these wonderful villages.
Discovering the Gothic Church (Iglesia de la Santa María de la Coronada), which has a very impressive Plateresque retablo.
Photographing the Arcos de la Frontera known as the stunning gateway to the Pueblos Blancos.

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2. Granada, Andalusia

Granada - one of the best places to visit in Spain

Nestled at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is one of my favourite cities in the country. It is a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region. It has truly stunning examples of Moorish medieval architecture!

The finest example is the stunningly ornate Moorish Palace, the Alhambra, which is world-famous! It’s a sprawling complex of palaces surrounded by ornate gardens, perched atop a hill with the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains behind. The location is also spectacular!

I love the interior, which is seriously beautiful, and I also love its zen-like vibe. It has romantic, intricate Moorish-style decorations around peaceful courtyards, contrasting with the powerfully simplistic lines of later, vast Baroque additions.

Location: Andalusia Region, South of Spain
Best time to visit: May and autumn months as temperatures are cooler

My favourite highlights…

Exploring the Alhambra, the beautiful Moorish palace – the ornate decor took my breath away!
Spending a few hours wandering the historic streets of Albayzin, the gorgeous old Moorish quarter of Granada.
Going to the wonderful Sacromonte. Known as the gypsy quarter, I watched an incredible flamenco performance in one of the caves here.
Going for fun rooftop drinks and watching the sunset over the city at BHeaven ’s rooftop bar.

3. Seville, Andalusia

I’m a huge fan of Seville, the majestic capital of the Andalusia region. It’s stuffed with beautiful sights, fantastic flamenco dancing, excellent bars, shops, and restaurants, and it is wonderfully atmospheric!

I highly recommend visiting the spectacular Plaza de Espana. Designed by local architect Anibal Gonzalez for the great 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition, which was held in the city and virtually bankrupted it, it’s a feast of ornate, colourful towers and colonnades decorated with tiles and motifs.

At its centre, there’s a huge fountain and canal on which I would suggest hiring a pedalo and exploring! It’s such a striking place that it often features in movies – most notably Star Wars Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones!

Location: Andalusia region, southern Spain.
Best time to visit: May and Autumn when temperatures are cooler.

My favorite highlights…

Visiting the incredible Real Alcazar de Sevilla a unique mix of Spanish Christian and Moorish architecture.
Exploring the stunning Plaza de Espana a semi-circular brick building in Renaissance/neo-Moorish style which has been the location for many famous films and TV series.
Wandering the narrow historic streets of the charming Barrio Santa Cruz, which used to be the Jewish quarter.
Dining at Tapas at El Pasaje Santa María la Blanca located in the pretty Centro Historico de Sevilla.

4. Marbella, Costa del Sol

I love that this famous, fun and sometimes unashamedly brash but in a glitzier way than some of the other famous Spanish tourist resorts!

Visitors flock here for the fine weather, the pretty historic old town, its gorgeous beaches, its many nightclubs and bars, The Golden Mile lined with buzzing, upscale establishments, and to watch the gleaming yachts gently bobbing in the harbour.

I would highly recommend heading to Puerto Banús, the flashiest marina in the region and wandering the old town’s pretty narrow lanes lined with flower boxes.

This is a place of quite extreme contrasts, and in my opinion, it makes the place even more fascinating. Don’t forget to bring the bling, and you’ll fit right in!

Location: Andalusia, Southern Spain
Best time to visit: June to September
People, and yacht, watching along the Golden Mile.
Exploring the Old Town which is actually very pretty!
Going for rooftop cocktails and watching the sunset by Air by Breathe .

5. Ronda, Malaga Province

At the heart of the Serrania de Ronda sits Ronda, a beautiful location surrounded by lively river valleys and home to a population of around 35,000.

The city is the third most visited in Andalucia, and its proximity to Malaga makes it easy to reach. It is a quiet and very photogenic gem!

Ronda’s most famous landmarks are the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge (which took 42 years to build!) and the deep gorge it spans. The bridge connects the old Moorish town and the newer El Mercadillo parts of the city, and Instagrammers love this jaw-dropping spot!

Location: Malaga Province, Southern Spain
Best time to visit: July and August

My highlights…

Photographing the New Bridge (The Puente Nuevo), which offers extraordinary views of the El Tajo gorge.
Exploring the wonderful Mondragon Palace which is home to a museum and some truly beautiful gardens.
People watching in Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, Ronda’s most picturesque square.
Visiting the Cuenca Gardens which are known for their series of terraces. The views were beautiful!
Spending an afternoon wine tasting at Descalzos Viejos winery .

6. Malaga, Malaga Province

With its many concrete high rises that seem to swamp the place, the Costa del Sol isn’t always considered traditionally beautiful. Still, in my opinion, its capital, Malaga, is the exception!

Take a break here, and you’ll be treated to a wonderful place with fine weather, a youthful vibe, excellent (and numerous) museums, art galleries, historic monuments, and beautiful boutique hotels waiting to welcome you.

I recommend seeking the Michelin-starred restaurants and sampling Malaga’s excellent culinary scene. I would also suggest exploring the Pompidou Centre, the charming Paseo del Parque, the 11th-century Alcazaba fort, and the Roman amphitheatre, following in the footsteps of Pablo Picasso (this was his birthplace), and then seeking out some of the amazing sandy beaches!

Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Dining at the fabulous and very trendy Doña Inés restaurant , which offers creative Mediterranean dishes.
Discovering the pretty Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion gardens.
Drinking cocktails with views at Rooftop AC Hotel Malaga Palacio.

7. The Balearic Islands

The four largest Balearic Islands in the East of Spain, Ibiza, Mallorca , and Menorca, draw tourists worldwide. Ibiza is perhaps the most popular tourist location of these four islands, particularly for young adults looking for a new kind of nightlife to discover.

Although these islands are typically overrun with summer tourists, in my opinion, there are still many unspoilt places to visit, and they hold a fair bit of history, dating as far back as the story of shipwrecked Greek Boeotians!

Location: off the coast of eastern Spain
Best time to visit: Summer
Visiting the cosmopolitan capital Majorca, Palma, and exploring the boutique shops and hotels, great restaurants, cafes, and swish marinas.
Exploring the pretty village Deia in Majorca has long been a haven for the early 20th-century literary and art set.
Visiting Cala Salada in Ibiza, a small cove with a lovely beach, crystal clear waters, and a refreshing lack of tourists!
Visiting the often underrated island of Menorca, which is more low-key than its neighbours and home to endless beaches, from beautiful miles-long sandy crescents to small turquoise-watered bays.

8. San Sebastian, Basque Country

I love this sophisticated city with golden sands and pure blue oceans! Its elegant allure always draws me in, and it is home to a stunning dining scene, amazing architecture, and luscious beaches that frame the city.

This location is undeniably one of the world’s premier food destinations. I recommend trying pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, and heading to its stunning beach! There are also many fantastic boutiques, restaurants, and bars here, so you’ll be kept busy whether you stay for a day or a week!

Location: Basque Country, northeast Spain
Best time to visit: May to September
Spending a lazy afternoon on La Concha Beach, a crescent-shaped beach in this city that spans over 1.3 km and features stunning golden sand and clear blue water.
Exploring the Old Town, and losing myself amongst the elegant narrow streets. There are many fantastic bars and restaurants to explore in this area.
Relaxing on Zurriola Beach, which is a smaller and less crowded alternative to La Concha Beach.

9. Costa Brava, Catalonia

You can spend your holiday exploring 200km of absolutely stunning coastline in Costa Brava! It has a rugged coastline, and I would highly recommend exploring the pretty cosmopolitan resorts, emerald green coves, brilliant beaches, and numerous protected reserves and parks, such as Cap de Creus Natural Park and Albera Range Natural Park.

My other favourite areas include the protected wetland and marine reserves, the important archaeological site Ruins de Empuries and the three charming medieval villages of Pals, Peratallada, and Ullastret.

Location: East coast of Spain
Best time to visit: summer

My must-do highlights…

Spending an afternoon on Fenals Beach, a stunning spot with crystal clear waters and water sports.
Spotting wildlife and birds in their natural surroundings in the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Emporda.
Visiting the Old Town of Tossa de Mar which was declared a national artistic monument in 1931.
Visiting the summer house of the famous artist Salvador Dali which was built in the 1930s.

10. Formentera, Balearic islands

Spain has over 5,000 miles of coastline and bright sunny days for much of the year, so it’s unsurprising that it’s a beach Mecca. From jam-packed tourist beaches to deserted stretches of virgin sand, there’s a beach for just about everyone!

In my opinion, some of the most unspoilt and ultra-white are found on the shores of the Balearic island of Formentera. The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is only a couple of hours by boat from the mainland.

I especially love the Ses Illetes, a long curve of white sand backed by soft dunes with shallow ultramarine seawater lapping its fringes.

Location: Off East Coast Spain
Visiting the stunning Playa de Ses Illetes, which is always mentioned among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Sunbathing on Cala Saona, which is another lovely but smaller beach in Formentera.
Chartering a private yacht which was a very swish way to explore this extraordinary place!

11. Barcelona, Catalonia

Beautiful Casa Batlló in Barcelona Spain

I fall in love with the proud capital of the Catalonia region every time I visit! It has heaps to offer its many besotted visitors, including great nightlife, shopping, and beaches.

But it’s incredible buildings created by legendary architect Gaudi that are arguably the show’s biggest stars. I would recommend visiting (the still unfinished) La Sagrada Familia, which has its spindly towers, oddly shaped buttresses, and unique roof.

I think his residential buildings, like the Casa Mila, are also wonderful, as are his more playful statues and benches in the popular Park Guell. The views here are also outstanding!

Location: Catalonia region, East Spain
Best time to visit: Spring and summer
Visiting Park Güell, a beautifully surreal and artistic public park with wonderful city views.
Getting lost in the Gothic Quarter, which has narrow medieval streets filled with trendy bars, clubs, and charming Catalan restaurants.
Going for cocktails with amazing sunset views at the Azimuth Rooftop Bar .
Hanging out at their main city beach, a local activity hub.

12. Valencia, Valencia Region

This is a wonderful port city on the southeastern coast. It is livable, with balmy temperatures and thriving cultural, eating, and nightlife scenes! It’s also known for its awe-inspiring City of Arts and Sciences.

This country has its share of outstanding historical architecture, but I admire how it has firmly looked towards the future for many of its building projects in recent years.

I love the impressive City of Arts and Sciences , designed by the forward-thinking Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Built in stark white, its odd angles and unusual shapes look particularly spectacular when floodlit at night.

Location: East Coast of Spain
Best time to visit: May to August
People watching in Plaza de la Reina, the city’s best square
Bargain hunting and trying local food at Valencia’s Central Market.
Soaking up rays on my favourite beach, La Malvarrosa.
Eating at the award-winning Karak restaurant and dining on creative, locally inspired dishes.

13. Mount Teide, Tenerife

A couple hours south by plane from the Spanish mainland, the Canary Islands are far closer to African shores than European ones. I personally love this place because its natural landscapes are so different!

Much of the land is volcanic, and I’m always in awe of its steep slopes and dark grey sands on the beaches. At the centre of Tenerife, the most popular of the Canary Islands, my favourite attraction is the mighty Mount Teide, a vast snow-capped volcano!

It’s a great hiking territory, and the scenery is almost moon-like at this altitude. I suggest taking a cable car to the summit and gazing at the surreal views.

Location: Tenerife, the Canary Islands.
Best time to visit: March to September.
Going on a fun Quad Biking Tour.
Star gazing at night!

14. Picos de Europa

This country’s natural scenery—from the sandy coastline to the vast plains—is constantly surprising. Still, the lofty peaks of the Picos de Europa mountain ranges are, in my opinion, the most spectacular!

I can’t get enough of the craggy mountain peaks, verdant valleys, and raging rivers. This area of northern Spain is perfect hiking and adventure territory, and I would suggest whitewater rafting and snowshoeing if you’re more of an active type!

There are heaps of wildlife here, including the endangered Cantabrian Brown Bear and wolves.

Location: Cabrales, Asturias, Spain
Hiking the Cares Trail, which took me through spectacular scenery.
Going for a ride on the Fuente Dé cable car and seeing the incredible views.
Canoeing down the Sella River.

15. Zaragoza, Aragon region

I think Zaragoza, the capital of the northeastern Aragon region, is the perfect city for any history lover or architecture buff. I love that the city is full of museums, religious sites, and stunning street art that covers flat pathways everywhere!

I would suggest visiting the most iconic building, the Basilica del Pilar, which holds paintings created by Francisco José de Goya, a famous painter from the Aragon region.

Not only can you see this beautiful building from the outside and inside, but I recommend travelling up to the top of the bell towers to see everything from 60 metres up. The views are breathtaking!

Location: Aragon region, northeastern Spain.
Best time to visit: May to October
Visiting Palacio de la Aljaferia an extraordinary fortified medieval palace built in the 11th century.
Wandering around the vibey El Tubo in the Old Town, which is a maze of small alleys and streets packed with bars and restaurants.
Taking the elevator up the Torre Del Pilar for 360-degree views of the city and the Ebro River (my photo above).

16. Playa del Silencio, Asturias

There are many very beautiful beaches in the country. Still, I personally think the picturesque beauty of Playa del Silencio in Asturias (a region in northwest Spain) is well worth a visit!

I love the way the clear waters reflect the sky at all times of day, and the smooth curve of the cliffside makes for some perfect photos. The beach is stoney but it’s the surrounding scenery that really makes it special.

In English, “Playa del Silencio” translates as “Beach of Silence,” which I think is an apt name for this peaceful place. You can reach Playa del Silencio from the village of Castañares.

It’s a long walk if you choose to walk rather than go by car, but I think it’s worth it! The coastline of Cudillero is unique, with high cliffs and stunning islets that are seriously spectacular.

Location: Northern Spain coast
Just sitting on and relaxing on the secluded beach and taking in the zen-like vibe.
Photographing the beach from the cliff-top path, it’s very photogenic!

17. Tarragona, Catalonia

Tarragona is approximately an hour away from Barcelona by car or train and only a few minutes away from Reus Airport. This architectural city was once the capital of the Roman Empire in Spain, and I highly recommend a visit.

I love that it’s a relaxed place brimming with history and culture, crowned by Mediterranean blue skies and beautiful beaches.

The amphitheatre of Tarragona is right by the sea, and there’s something very unique and special about the location. As you walk around the amphitheatre, parts of Tarraco, one of Catalonia’s Nine Wonders of UNESCO Sites and Heritage, will be directly behind you!

Location: Catalonia region, northeastern Spain
Taking a photo from the gorgeous Mediterranean Balcony (my photo above).
Hanging out at the popular Playa de Arrabassada.
Checking out all the Roman ruins.
Going shopping at the many wonderful boutiques.

18. The Pyrénées, the border of France and Spain

The Pyrénées mountain range sits in the southwest of Europe and forms one of the most natural borders between Spain and France. I’m a huge fan of this naturally stunning area!

The mountains here reach a height of over 11,000ft. The range separates the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of continental Europe and extends from the Bay of Biscay to the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the main crest of the mountains forms the divide between Spain and France.

I highly recommend visiting the several national parks and nature reserves here, including the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park , in Ordesa Valley. The light at dusk and dawn here is just incredible!

Location: Iberian Peninsula between France and Spain
Hiking the Cirque de Gavarnie trail.
Taking a cable car ride over the Pont d’Espagne.
Relaxing in Bagnères-de-Bigorre’s thermal baths.
Star gazing at the observatory on Pic du Midi mountain.

19. Santiago de Compostela, Galicia region

Spain’s many vast Gothic cathedrals testify to the country’s long-held Christian traditions. The most spellbinding is at Santiago de Compostela, the magnificent capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region, famous for being the final stop of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

I recommend wandering around its historic alleys and architecture; the cathedral is a must-see attraction! It’s a vast building smothered in Baroque swirls, statues and stalagmites. The most remarkable vista is the Western facade, which forms the main entrance and is accessed by a magnificent quadruple flight of stairs.

The cathedral is also the final destination of the thousands of pilgrims who walk the Way of St James trail each year.

Location: Galicia region, northwest Spain
Visiting the world-famous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Exploring the San Martin Pinario Monastery, the 10th-century baroque Benedictine monastery.
Taking photos around the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

20. Cíes Islands

For a gorgeous unspoilt shoreline, I would say no further than the vastly underrated Cíes Islands, a beautiful archipelago off the coast of Pontevedra in Galicia. These islands are made up of three isles in total: San Martiño (Saint Martin), Do Faro (Lighthouse), and Monteagudo (Sharp Mount).

The landscapes of each island are utterly incredible and, in my opinion, well worth the few days of exploration required to see everything on each one. There’s a lot to see, from caves to vast forests to rugged cliffs.

I suggest renting a private apartment while you are on the islands to get a full feel for them and spend as much time relaxing on their shores as possible. Enjoy!

Location: off the coast of Pontevedra in Galicia, west coast

My favourite highlights…

Lazing around on the stunning white sands.
Bird spotting from gulls to gannets.

I would urge visitors to be compassionate and not fund or become involved in the very cruel practices of bullfights , running of the bulls , donkey rides or any festivals involving animals . Please embrace the new progressive Spain instead!

46 thoughts on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain”

Oh, the first place you listed that is Pueblos Blancos reminds me of Greece even though I’ve never been there. By the way, about Greece, I was in Cheshme in Turkey 2 years ago and this city is also look alike Greece because this nation was living there for some period of time and left their architecture. Sorry for changing the topic just wanted to share!

Which is the best Place to Visit in Seville. Please answer me because I am planning to visit this place after some time.

After Barcelona, Seville is so interesting!

more please

Would love to visit Valencia and Seville. Have travelled to San Sebastian and surrounding areas of the Basque country which are so beautiful. Montserrat is another lovely place outside Barcelona.

All lovely places! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

Valencia is well worth a visit. Full of History with aLovely Cathedral and if you do go try a Horchata which is a Speriality of Valencia and it tastes delicious I can vouch for it as I love it there is a cafe near to the Cathedral which is well known for it’s Horchata and inside in fantastic to see lots of coloured tiles on the walls and floor and nicely air conditioned. The name of the cafe escapes me but it is well known it is on the Corner of the square near to the Cathedral MY brother and his wife took me there on a visit to Valencia especially to try the Horchata which they prepare If I may so so in Spanish Delicioso ‘o’ Que Rico. There is also the indoor market which is a must to visit and Lalon Ja the silk Market of old the inside is worth seeing because of the Spiral Pillars and a lovely small garden which one walks through the Silk market / room too. and also one or two museums which are also With a visit. I would definitely recommend . Valencia is one of my favourite Spanish Cities. Sevilla I am not to sure of, but I have read books on the mentioned; But it can get very HOT there especially in the summer and earlier so check on the weather before you go. From June through to August ( end of) particularly

I’ve done quite a bit of travelling for weekends away throughout Spain, however there is so much history and culture that you’ll always have something else on the list that you would like to visit and see. I haven’t been to Segovia yet so I’ll definitely be checking it out as you have posted above, looks amazing 😀

Love traveling to Spain. I was in Valencia back when I was kid in the 70’s! Would love to return to see the changes. 🙂 Also enjoyed Barcelona on one of our recent Mediterranean Cruises.

Hi, I already read so many amazing articles of yours! This one is also interesting and really beautiful to visit. Thanks for all good resources.

Ashley and I love Spain. We fell in love Barcelona and the Catalan Culture. It looks like there is so much more I need to experience though.

Spain is always a good idea 🙂

Seville is probably first on my list if I ever return to Spain, have so far only had the opportunity to see Barcelona, Valencia and Zaragoza. 🙂

Nice pictures! My favourite city is Barcelona. 🙂

Enchanting the best plaza de espana the whole of spain, i really won’t do enough justice with my review of Seville’s Plaza de España you’ve got to see it yourself and do your oooh’s and aaahs. i never get tired of going to this place. luckily i lived in Seville a whole year plus the parque maria luisa is so close for a picnic and its in a great part of town

Great post. Will make sure to visit some of these places when my wife and I take a road trip across Spain this upcoming summer.

Regards, George M.

Don’t forget Menorca, Cáceres, Altea, and Salamanca.

Congrats and thank you for the post. I would like to add some “do nots” 😉 for Segovia City and Province: – Do not forget to watch the Alcazar and the Cathedral from La Cuesta de los Hoyos St. – Do not forget to visit the palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Ah! The fountains work only twice a year. – Do not forget to experience the dawn at Ermita de San Frutos surrounded by Duraton River (60km from Segovia) – Do not forget to visit the village of Pedraza (crowded by weekends) – Due to this is the heart of Castile, do not forget to visit the main castles in Coca, Turegano or Cuellar… – Several Do’s: Segovia is 66km from Avila (surrounded by outstanding medieval walls), 53km from San Lorenzo de El Escorial Monastery, 50km from El Valle de los Caidos National Monument.

We were in Spain for 4 weeks and loved it. Barcelona is my hubbies favorite city in the world.

San Sebastian missing, one of the really great places in Spain, in my opinion 🙂

This is very interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and

look forward to seeking more of your wonderful post. Also, I’ve shared

your web site in my social networks!

i want 2 look these beautiful places how i can i dont know……………..

Hi. Of course there are 100 places in Spain with similar beauty than the 10 placed. I´d add for example Baeza, The Alpujarra villages, or Sos del Rey Catolico …

Good day! This is kind of off topic but I need some guidance from an established blog.

Is it tough to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast. I’m thinking about making my own but I’m not sure where to start. Do you have any ideas or suggestions? Thanks

Hi Yvonne, I’ve just sent you an email.

Fine article. This’s my way of travel

Thanks for this, I enjoyed the piece, especially the facts on the Canary Isles, Plaza de Espana and Segovia.

Spain has always fascinated me and I’ll be off to live in Seville for a year soon.

Nice pics on Pueblos Blancos, Picos de Europa and the Plaza de Espana.

Honestly i never could have imagined that Spain have so many beautiful places. Congrats the pictures and the content are of high quality.

I love the photos! Spain is the best place, specially in Barcelona. Thanks for sharing this.

Congratulations, Nice Article. We like it 🙂

Hey There. I found your weblog the use of msn. That is a very neatly written article. I will make sure to bookmark it and come back to learn more of your helpful info. Thank you for the post. I’ll certainly comeback.

Dear Sir/Madam i have searched these places on net that very very beautiful.I want to see these places.How i can see them?

From several days ago I’ve been thinking to visit in Spain and just in time I’ve got this post. Thanks mate. 🙂

hospital emergency room

Spain is so colourful, amazing.

There are some truly stunning places in spain!

This is a great article, love the pictures too. Spain is such a great country with so much to offer. Can’t wait to get back there!

Definitely need to get our jandals down to Spain. Hopefully early next summer we will finally!

Spain is one of the few countries I’ve never heard anybody complain or talk negative about. I must go there! This kind of post inspires me.

The Sierra Nevada mountains in Granada?

Yep. Granada Province…

Love these photos theyre beautiful!

Beautiful places! I can’t wait to visit them. By the way, it’s called Plaza de España, not Espana, the ñ is an Spanish character which sounds different than the n (it would be similar to GN in gnome)

The Gaudi’s Masterpieces in Barcelona is breathtaking! Nice photos and very informative article. I will come back for more.

These photos are amazing! The one of Barcelona looks like gingerbread houses.

Thanks 🙂 Got to love the amazing mind of Gaudi!

I love your photos and article on the 10 most beautiful spots in spain.

15 of the Best Places to Visit in Spain

15 of the Best Places to Visit in Spain Spain is one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, attracting 82.8 million international visitors in 2018. We have collected the 15 best places to visit in…

25 Jul 18 · 8 mins read

Spain is one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, attracting 82.8 million international visitors in 2018. We have collected the 15 best places to visit in Spain in the list that follows below. This is by no means a definitive list, but it can be your starting point if you are considering visiting the Iberian Peninsula. This list of places provides an insight into Spain’s rich history and the development of its now world-famous cultural and artistic hubs including commentary and observations on the best cities to visit in Spain.

La Rioja Wine District

The La Rioja Wine District is a wine-growing region famed for its rioja, of which there are seven varieties: four red and three white. Tour the charming town of Haro for its baroque and plasteresque architecture.

It is best known, however, for its bodegas or wine cellars, which attract travellers from afar to sample their locally produced vintages. Apart from its wine, one should not overlook other specialities, such as Pimientos del Piquillo, a delicious and sweet red pepper, and the local marzipan of Sierra de Cameros. Both are renowned throughout Spain.

Pilgrims in Pamplona

The otherwise quiet city of Pamplona explodes into life in July during the Fiesta of Los Sanfermines. The city is world-famous for the running of the bulls, and for being one of Ernest Hemingway’s favourite cities. Hemingway visited Pamplona numerous times and wrote about the city in his first novel, The Sun Also Rises.

Travellers today can walk around Pamplona following the writer’s footsteps.It is also one of the major towns along the traditional Way of Saint James pilgrimage.

Many journeys commence here for its ease of access, and it saves climbing over the Pyrenees. Our Saint James Way Small Group Walking Tou r stops in Pamplona. While here, we explore the Church of St Mary of Eunate, and cross the Puente la Reina, “the crossroads of the ways”. This is a quaint, medieval town where two main pilgrim routes (Orreaga/Roncesvalles from Paris) and Somport (from Toulouse) converge.

Read more about pilgrimage walks in our article here, and in our article on European pilgrim walks .

Bilbao’s Guggenheim

This is one of Basque Country’s most important commercial and cultural centres. Its Guggenheim Museum is a wondrous construction, designed in the Deconstructivism style. The groundbreaking work of Canadian architect Frank Gehry, this museum has anchored Bilbao not only on the bank of the Estuary, but also on the shores of cultural prominence. Explore the building and its exhibitions on the museum’s website. But remember: nothing can compare to experiencing the real thing!

The tomb of El Cid

The city of Burgos feature’s Spain’s third largest cathedral. Begun in 1221, it took more than three centuries to complete. It’s architectural elements reflect influences from Germany, France and the Low Countries. The cathedral contains the tomb of the romantic hero of the Reconquista, El Cid, and that of his wife, Doña Jimena.

Burgos is also the site of the Miraflores Convent, a Carthusian monastery and the former summer residence of the Spanish kings.

Madrid is one of the liveliest and most exciting cities in Europe. A key destination for those interested in Moorish Spain , the capital also features Roman ruins at its outskirts. It tells the story of a long and interesting history.

The city’s historic centre features the Palacio Real, the Plaza Mayor, the Parque del Buen Retiro, and the 140-hectare Retiro Park. Some of the finest museums can be found in Madrid, including the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. Just some 45 kilometres to the north-west of Madrid, one finds the famous 16th-century El Escorial palace with its centrepiece basilica dedicated to St Lawrence. A host of historic cities surround the Comunidad de Madrid, making it an absolute must on any Spain itinerary.

Toledo’s Gothic cathedral

Medieval ávila, salamanca and the ‘golden age’.

Salamanca is home to the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in all of Europe. There are records of the university having granted degrees as early as 1134. However, it received the royal charter of foundation in 1218, making it possibly the fourth, or even the third, oldest European university in continuous operation. Salamanca was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . Its beautifully preserved, fine examples of gothic, renaissance, mudéjar, plateresque and baroque architecture are evocative of Spain’s glorious past: its ‘Golden Age’.

Zamora, the Museum of the Romanesque

Lying between Salamanca and the Portuguese municipality of Bragança is the medieval town of Zamora. Of Roman origin, this town has had a checkered history, much the same as that of many other Iberian towns. First formally established as a Roman town on the banks of the Duero River, this town later fell to the Visigoths, then to the Moors. It was finally reclaimed for Christendom during the course of the Reconquista by successive Christian monarchs. Zamora is famous for its profusion of Romanesque churches dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, numbering 24 in all. So profound is the presence of the Romanesque in Zamora, that this small town has become known as the Museum of the Romanesque.Seville

Founded as the Roman city Hispalis and now the capital of the Andalusia region, the lively and disarming city of Seville , located in Southern Spain is a popular tourist destination. Forming a monumental complex in the heart of Seville are the three UNESCO Heritage sites: the Seville Cathedral with the Giralda minaret, the Alcázar (fortress), and the Archivo de Indias. Seville for the traveller is definitely one of the best cities in Spain to visit.

The Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world with its Giralda tower standing at 96 meters. Once an Almohad mosque, it was turned into a Catholic Cathedral following the Reconquista in 1248 and now holds the remains of Juan of Aragon, son of Ferdinand and Isabella, and Christopher Columbus. The Alcázar (fortress) of Seville, imbued with Moorish influences, is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. The Lonja, which became the Archivo de Indias (General Archive of the Indies), contains valuable documents illustrating the reach of the Spanish Empire in the Americas and in Asia.

Expect to experience fiestas, music, dance, colour, and spectacle. Residents here are renowned for ‘having a good time’, even more, perhaps, than other Spaniards. Finally, Seville is the city of the Flamenco and of Carmen, so be sure to immerse yourself in its dynamic culture.

Jerez de la Frontera

Sherry barrels line a walkway in a bodega in Jerez, Spain

Western Andalusia is well known for the production of sherry. Jerez de la Frontera, which lies thirty-six kilometres north-east of Cádiz , is most famous for the production of this fortified wine. In addition to its 11th-century alcázar, built around a mosque, and its cathedral with its painting by the master Zurbarán, Jerez is also famous for its Real Escuela Andaluza de Arte Ecuestre where public dressage displays are held. As one might expect, Jerez has a number of wine cellars, known in Spanish as bodegas, which can be visited on your Spain tour.

Moorish Spain in Córdoba

For three centuries, Córdoba was the centre of Muslim power in the Iberian Peninsula until it was taken by Fernando III in 1236 during the Spanish Reconquista. The Mezquita, the former Great Mosque, was first built between 785 and 787 AD. Its more than 850 columns of granite, jasper and marble that support the roof were recycled from Roman and Visigoth ruins. Over the centuries, the mosque was expanded and embellished. After the Reconquista, a cathedral was built within the mosque and reconsecrated as a Christian place of worship. The provinces of Córdoba and Granada remain at the heart of Moorish Spain.

Granada is the site of Alhambra, a magnificent, Moorish palace and fortress complex perched atop a hill. The World Heritage site is testament to the artistic creativity of the Nasrid dynasty. So the Alhambra complex includes the Royal Lodges, the 13th-century Alcazaba, and the 16th-century palace of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. It also features the Palacio de Generalife: the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers. Its gardens will make you feel as though you are in a fairy-tale, and the whole complex cannot be missed. It has inspired songs, stories and poems alike. Click here to learn more about Alhambra.

The Way of Saint James

Last but not least is the famous Way of Saint James.

It is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in the world. Equally known by its Spanish name El Camino , it follows a medieval pilgrimage route through northern Spain. The final destination of the pilgrimage is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where the body of St James – disciple of Jesus – is said to be buried. In the tenth, eleventh and twelfth centuries, it was second only to Rome and Jerusalem as a pilgrim destination. After a long period of neglect, El Camino was revived in the mid-1980s. Some say Paulo Coelho’s book The Pilgrimage inspired the renewed interest. Over the last thirty years, the number of pilgrims has increased to several tens of thousands a year. This is a great way to experience Spain’s stunning scenery and traditions, why not take the journey yourself?

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and one of the most culturally dynamic cities in Europe. In the late 1800s, it experienced a cultural rebirth in the form of music, literature, art and architecture, making it the city we know and love today.

Montjiuc Hill is a must-see. At 213 metres high, it overlooks the city, and boasts museums and galleries, exhibitions halls and fountains. In addition, Barcelona’s Gothic quarter, or Barrio Gótico , features an inspiring mix of medieval, Art Noveau and modernist architecture.

The Museo de Art Moderno can be found here, along with Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, the Gothic cathedral and the ancient royal palace.

Barcelona is known worldwide as the home of Antonio Gaudi, the uber famous Catalan architect. Gaudi’s designs have had a profound influence on Spanish architecture, and left a profound imprint on the modern city of Barcelona. He had a remarkable attention to detail and integrated crafts such as ceramics, stained glass and carpentry into his architecture. He rarely drew detailed plans of his designs, preferring instead to construct three-dimensional models. A deeply religious man, Catholic images appear throughout his work, earning him the nickname ‘God’s architect’. Amazingly, seven of his works have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

You can also enjoy some tasty tapas at Barcelona’s tapas bars. Tapa means “cover” or “lid” in Spanish, which referred to the way these small dishes were served before, covered to protect them from flies. But of course now the tapa has been elevated and is served in the city’s swankiest bars.

Click here to read our Barcelona Travel Notes .

The otherwise quiet city of Pamplona explodes into life in July during the Fiesta of Los Sanfermines . The city is world-famous for the running of the bulls, and for being one of Ernest Hemingway’s favourite cities. Hemingway visited Pamplona numerous times and wrote about the city in his first novel, The Sun Also Rises.

Bilbao's Guggenheim

Madrid is one of the liveliest and most exciting cities in Europe. A key destination for those interested in Moorish Spain, the capital also features Roman ruins at its outskirts. It tells the story of a long and interesting history.

The city’s historic centre features the Palacio Real, the Plaza Mayor, the Parque del Buen Retiro, and the 140-hectare Retiro Park. Some of the finest museums can be found in Madrid, including the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. Just some 45 kilometres to the north-west of Madrid, one finds the famous 16 th -century El Escorial palace with its centrepiece basilica dedicated to St Lawrence. A host of historic cities surround the Comunidad de Madrid, making it an absolute must on any Spain itinerary.

Toledo's Gothic cathedral

One of the most impressive monuments in Toledo is the city’s Gothic cathedral. Begun in the 13 th century, it incorporates mudéjar, Renaissance and Baroque elements in its many chapels, choir stalls and sacristy.

Toledo is also the city of El Greco, whose works can be seen in the church of Santo Tomé and in the Casa y Museo de El Greco. Wandering along in the old quarter of the city, one comes to the Judería, the old Jewish quarter which once housed eleven synagogues. Now, just two of them remain: the Sinagoga del Tránsito, which houses the Museo Sefardí, and the Sinagoga de Santa María La Blanca. A host of other churches, monasteries, converted mosques and varied vestiges of its history add to the allure of this extraordinary city.

Ávila resembles a quintessential medieval town. With its defensive walls and towers still intact, Ávila presents the traveller with an amazing image of a bygone era. It is believed that the site was first settled by an Iberian tribe. This tribe subsequently fell under the sway of imperial Rome, the Visigoths, the Muslim caliphates, and finally the Christian monarchs. After the collapse of the Muslim power base at Toledo in the 11 th century, Ávila became a knightly city of noble families. The city is also famous for its own early Gothic cathedral. Interestingly, it constructed in a somewhat bastion-like manner. Planned as a cathedral-fortress, its granite apse solidly interlocked within the fabric of the defensive walls which still encircle the town.

Salamanca and the 'Golden Age'

Salamanca is home to the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in all of Europe. There are records of the university having granted degrees as early as 1134. However, it received the royal charter of foundation in 1218, making it possibly the fourth, or even the third, oldest European university in continuous operation. Salamanca was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its beautifully preserved, fine examples of gothic, renaissance, mudéjar, plateresque and baroque architecture are evocative of Spain’s glorious past: its ‘Golden Age’.

Zamora, the Museum of the Romanesque

Lying between Salamanca and the Portuguese municipality of Bragança is the medieval town of Zamora. Of Roman origin, this town has had a checkered history, much the same as that of many other Iberian towns. First formally established as a Roman town on the banks of the Duero River, this town later fell to the Visigoths, then to the Moors. It was finally reclaimed for Christendom during the course of the Reconquista by successive Christian monarchs. Zamora is famous for its profusion of Romanesque churches dating from the 12 th and 13 th centuries, numbering 24 in all. So profound is the presence of the Romanesque in Zamora, that this small town has become known as the Museum of the Romanesque.

Founded as the Roman city Hispalis and now the capital of the Andalusia region, the lively and disarming city of Seville, located in Southern Spain is a popular tourist destination. Forming a monumental complex in the heart of Seville are the three UNESCO Heritage sites: the Seville Cathedral with the Giralda minaret, the Alcázar (fortress), and the Archivo de Indias. Seville for the traveller is definitely one of the best cities in Spain to visit.

Expect to experience fiestas, music, dance, colour, and spectacle. Residents here are renowned for ‘having a good time’, even more, perhaps, than other Spaniards. Finally, Seville is the city of the Flamenco and of Carmen , so be sure to immerse yourself in its dynamic culture.

Western Andalusia is well known for the production of sherry. Jerez de la Frontera, which lies thirty-six kilometres north-east of Cádiz, is most famous for the production of this fortified wine. In addition to its 11 th -century alcázar, built around a mosque, and its cathedral with its painting by the master Zurbarán, Jerez is also famous for its Real Escuela Andaluza de Arte Ecuestre where public dressage displays are held. As one might expect, Jerez has a number of wine cellars, known in Spanish as bodegas, which can be visited on your Spain tour.

Granada is the site of Alhambra , a magnificent, Moorish palace and fortress complex perched atop a hill. The World Heritage site is testament to the artistic creativity of the Nasrid dynasty. So the Alhambra complex includes the Royal Lodges, the 13 th -century Alcazaba, and the 16 th -century palace of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. It also features the Palacio de Generalife: the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers. Its gardens will make you feel as though you are in a fairy-tale, and the whole complex cannot be missed. It has inspired songs, stories and poems alike. Click here to learn more about Alhambra.

It is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in the world. Equally known by its Spanish name El Camino, it follows a medieval pilgrimage route through northern Spain. The final destination of the pilgrimage is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where the body of St James – disciple of Jesus – is said to be buried. In the tenth, eleventh and twelfth centuries, it was second only to Rome and Jerusalem as a pilgrim destination. After a long period of neglect, El Camino was revived in the mid-1980s. Some say Paulo Coelho’s book The Pilgrimage inspired the renewed interest. Over the last thirty years, the number of pilgrims has increased to several tens of thousands a year. This is a great way to experience Spain’s stunning scenery and traditions, why not take the journey yourself?

This concludes Odyssey Travellers list of fifteen best places to visit in Spain. Comments or suggestions are welcome on the space at the conclusion of this article.

Tours of Spain as part of a small group of mature-aged travellers

After reading this list you may finally want to experience Spain’s warm hospitality, rich traditions, cosmopolitan cities, and fascinating history with Odyssey Traveller. Our small group tours are designed especially for the active mature-aged traveller who seeks to learn more about history and culture. We aim to turn tourists into travellers.

Our newest Discover Spain tour runs for 21 days as we immerse ourselves in the grand sights and rich history of Spain. This tour is book-ended by the biggest cities of Spain–starting in the capital of Madrid and ending in Barcelona–with stops in smaller but equally beautiful towns that are not normally included in other commercial Spanish tours.

This link details all Odyssey Traveller small group tours of Spain for you to consider.

These articles may also assist you with your travel plans to visit Spain.

Why join a small group tour?
Advice for walking tours , such as The Way of Saint James .
Practising Responsible Travel
EU Introduces New Authorisation System for Visa-Free Travellers
Women’s Walking Shoes
Selecting Shoes and Socks
Nine European Pilgrimage Routes
History and European Pilgrim Walks

About Odyssey Traveller.

Odyssey Traveller is committed to charitable activities that support the environment and cultural development of Australian and New Zealand communities. We specialise in educational small group tours for seniors, typically groups between six to 15 people from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and Britain. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs since 1983.

We are also pleased to announce that since 2012, Odyssey has been awarding $10,000 Equity & Merit Cash Scholarships each year. We award scholarships on the basis of academic performance and demonstrated financial need. We award at least one scholarship per year. We’re supported through our educational travel programs, and your participation helps Odyssey achieve its goals.

Odyssey Traveller also has a Loyalty Program for regular travellers. Membership of the alumni starts when you choose to take your first international small group tour with Odyssey Traveller. To see the discounts and benefits of being a Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond alumni member with us, please see this page .

For more information on Odyssey Traveller and our educational small group tours, visit and explore our website. Alternatively, please call or send an email. We’d love to hear from you!

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Best of Spain
Cities & Villages
Beach Destinations
Top Attractions
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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Map of Spain with its most important cities

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.

Our handpicked selections of 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.

Homepage Tip Icon - Castellano not the only language in Spain

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.

Bay of San Sebastian in the Basque Country, Spain

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.

Ad for the best hotels in the center of Seville

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.

Homepage clock Icon - opening times of government offices and banks

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.

The emblematic Larios street, Malaga's main shopping artery

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.

Swordfish belly with ratatouille at Ultramar&nos in Cadiz, Spain

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.

Marble street full of restaurants in Spain

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.

Homepage Tip Icon - the bar is the center for social life in Spain

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.

Delicious pintxos in the Basque Country, Spain

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.

Cake and coffee at Cafetería Atrium in Cordoba, Spain

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.

Homepage Plate Icon - what is a menu del dia

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.

Ad for the best flamenco shows in Madrid

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.

Lush garden in the train station of Atocha – Madrid, Spain

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.

Homepage Train Icon - Traveling in Spain

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.

Homepage plane Icon - best deals on plane tickets

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

Has España Guide helped plan your trip?

If so, please consider booking your hotel through the links to booking.com found on our website or use the following link: https://www.booking.com/?aid=1802409

That way, you get the best rates on your hotels and at the same time, it helps us to continue contributing to this site. Everyone wins!

Your complete Spain Travel Guide: the best things to do, see, and eat

The rhythmic clacking of castanets, fragrant smell of paella, and awe-inspiring sights of castles and cathedrals are just a few of the things you’ll experience on a trip to Spain. The country has a history as rich as its churros con chocolate. You can see the remaining influences of Romans and Moors on architecture, cuisine, and even language. Even more permeating than Spain’s proud history is perhaps its inhabitants’ laid-back attitude. The long meals, daily siestas, and general ease of life might be even better than the sites. See for yourself on one of our Spain tours . Read on for our insider tips for traveling to Spain.

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Spain Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 12, 2024

Spain is a country that moves slow. This is the land of the siesta. It’s a place for foodies, night owls, history buffs, religious pilgrims, and anyone not in a rush to do just about anything!

It’s a huge country with a lot of variety: Madrid and Barcelona are hip and energetic cities, Granada has a Moorish touch, Valencia has its own vibe, Catalonia has its own language and culture, and the Basque region (an autonomous community in northern Spain) feels like you’re in an entirely different country.

And, as an added bonus, Spain is an incredibly affordable place to visit. I’ve been traveling to the country for over a decade and I never break the bank while I’m there. It’s really easy to get by on a budget.

This budget travel guide to Spain can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this vibrant country.

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Spain

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in spain.

The massive historic palace in Seville, Spain

1. Enjoy Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for its all-hours partying, late-night meals, and historic streets. Embrace the nocturnal lifestyle and you’ll fit right in. Don’t miss the Museu d’Història de la Ciutat — it’s one of the best in Europe and contains the largest Roman excavation outside of Rome itself. Other highlights include the Picasso Museum (Museo Picasso), where you’ll need some time to peruse 5,000 or so of the artist’s works; the towering and iconic Basilica De La Sagrada Família , one of a number of striking buildings across the city by famous architect Antoni Gaudí; Barri Gòtic (the Gothic Quarter), where winding streets create a welcome maze built for wandering; and finding your way through the actual labyrinth that is the city’s oldest green space, Parc del Laberint d’Horta.

2. Explore the history of Granada

Granada is one of my favorite cities in Spain. It’s a place where culture, architecture, and ideas from North Africa and Europe collide in a unique way, and no trip to the south of Spain is complete without a visit. Don’t miss the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Moorish palace and fortress built in the 13th century, and the Fajalauza ceramic factory, which dates back to 1517 and still remains in the same family. There are also a number of cathedrals and monasteries, including the peaceful Monastery of San Jeronimo, with leafy cloisters and a lavish chapel (5 EUR). Be sure to watch a flamenco show while you’re here (they’re usually around 20 EUR) and visit a Moorish tearoom for mint tea (locals recommend it with plenty of sugar).

3. Wander Madrid

Madrid , the capital of Spain, is famous for its museums, tapas, and nightlife. Like Barcelona, this is a city that doesn’t get going until midnight, which makes for quiet mornings with empty streets if you want the city all to yourself. Make sure you visit Museo Del Prado, one of the largest art museums in the world (get skip-the-line tickets from Get Your Guide ), and the Royal Palace — with nearly 3,500 rooms, it’s the largest palace in all of Western Europe. Other highlights include the Temple of Debod (an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE), El Retiro Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the 15th-century Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square, and El Rastro market every Sunday — a mix of flea market finds, clothing, and jewelry.

4. Revel in La Tomatina

La Tomatina is an epic hour-long tomato fight that draws upwards of 20,000 people to the small town of Buñol (only 9,000 people live in the town itself). Started in 1945, this festival is held on the last Wednesday of August, and over 360,000 pounds of tomatoes are thrown during the event. It starts when water cannons fire, and it ends after exactly one hour. It’s the most amazing and messy festival I’ve ever been to! (Tip: Stay in Valencia for more overnight options.)

5. Discover Seville

Other things to see and do in spain, 1. lounge on the costa del sol.

Hang out on the beach and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle for which Spain is famous. This slice of southern Spain is renowned for its beaches, nightlife…and tons of tourists. That said, it’s still a fun place to eat great food in seaside restaurants (the region is famous for pescaito frito , or deep-fried fish), enjoy watersports in the clear Alboran Sea, drink sunset cocktails, and relax on beautiful beaches. Malaga is one of the go-to destinations on the coast, but I think there are better places further down, like El Bajondillo’s white sand beach and the incredible seafood surrounding La Carihuela beach. To beat the crowds, visit during the shoulder season. The weather will still be warm, but it won’t be as crowded.

2. See Valencia

Valencia is a pretty amazing town. Initially, I wasn’t attracted to Valencia — I simply went for the tomato fight in nearby Buñol (most participants use Valencia as their base during the festival). However, Valencia grew on me as I explored the city, as it makes for a quiet stop between Spain’s more lively cities. Originally a Roman colony and once the capital of Spain, it has delicious seafood, a unique local paella (rather than seafood, the recipe uses chicken, rabbit, and beans), a popular soccer club (Valencia CF), and a giant food market (Mercado Central) housed in an extravagant domed building that looks like a cathedral. It’s a cool city that straddles the past and future with historic streets, futuristic museums — there’s literally a museum focused on “enlightenment and modernity,” and an awesome seaside boardwalk that passes plenty of great tapas spots and the historic fishing district of Cabanyal.

3. Walk the Camino de Santiago

El Camino de Santiago, or The Way of St. James, is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in the world. The path most people take, the French Way, runs from the border of France all the way to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. Stretching 800 kilometers (500 miles), you need around a month to complete the entire route. The mostly flat Camino is best done in May¬–June or September–October (July and August are both very busy and very warm). If you have the time, it’s a really great way to see the country and some of the less-visited areas of Spain. Of course, you can also walk sections of it if you just want to see what it’s like on a day hike.

4. Tour the islands

Spain has some of the most beautiful islands in all of Europe. Unsurprisingly, during July and August, they’re crowded and expensive, so try to avoid peak season. If you love beaches, surfing, hiking, or cycling, then be sure to hit up Gran Canaria, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including dolphins. If you’re coming to Spain to party, a stop in Ibiza for its all-night clubs is a must. Other islands worth checking out are Tenerife (home to Teide National Park and the highest peak in Spain), Majorca (for turquoise water and medieval architecture), and La Palma (a certified Starlight Reserve). Ferries from Barcelona and Valencia run frequently from late spring to early summer. In the winter, ferries only run a few times a week.

5. Visit Gibraltar

Bordering Spain on the Iberian peninsula, Gibraltar has actually been an overseas territory of the United Kingdom since 1713. It’s known as “The Rock,” owing to the 426-meter-high (1,397-foot) limestone ridge that dominates the island — you can ride a cable car to the top, or get great views by climbing the 18th-century Mediterranean Steps. There’s an interesting mix of cultures here too, with influences from Britain, Spain, and North Africa. With sunny days year-round, views of two continents (Europe and Africa), wildlife galore (including Gibraltar monkeys, which are actually Barbary Macaques and the only population of wild monkeys in Europe). There are also plenty of sandy of beaches and caves to explore (St Michaels Cave is probably the most popular), it’s a small swatch of land with enough to see and do to make a short visit worthwhile.

6. Play in the Sierra Nevadas

This mountain range, located within Spain’s largest nathional park, is in southeastern Spain near the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect place for summer hiking, winter skiing, and exploring small towns year-round. The area is one of the prettiest and most rugged regions in Spain and one of the better areas for outdoor activities in the country. There are plenty of trails ranging in length and difficulty, as well as the possibility for guided tours. Popular hikes include Mulhacen (6 hours), El Chullo (4-5 hours), and Pico de Veleta (4-5 hours). Lift passes for skiing at Sierra Nevada resort in the winter start at around 50 EUR per day.

7. Visit San Sebastián

Known as Donostia in Basque, San Sebastián is at the center of the Basque area of Spain. This place has killer nightlife and beaches (La Concha beach is the most popular), as well as loads of history throughout the city. It was founded in 1180 in the area that’s now become the Old Quarter. = The architecture — a cool mix of 16th-century Gothic churches, 19th-century mansions, and ultra-modern buildings — makes it one of the most beautiful and unique cities in all of Spain. For stunning views of the coast, hike up one of the 4 trails of Monte Urgull, located at the tip of La Concha. The city sees a fraction of the visitors compared to c Madrid or Barcelona so it’s much less crowded (and less expensive ). The regional Basque cuisine here is delicious, so be sure to take a food tour while you’re here.

8. Admire the Great Cathedral and Mosque

The Mezquita de Córdoba (Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption) is by far the most exquisite example of Muslim influence in Spain. Located in Córdoba just east of Seville, its giant arches, jasper columns, marble floors, richly gilded prayer niches, and the awe-inspiring domed shrine of Byzantine mosaics take you back to when Córdoba was under Muslim influence in the 12th century. Admission is 13 EUR and skip-the-line guided tours are 24 EUR.

9. Unwind in Salamanca

Salamanca seems to be in the middle of nowhere (it’s 2.5 hours northeast of Madrid by car), but it’s worth the detour for the history (it dates back to the Celtic era), and its historical Old Quarter which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The university town has a mix of small-town atmosphere, great nightlife, and plenty of backpackers. In the old quarter, join the other tourists trying to spot the frog carved into the 16th-century university facade — said to bring professional success. The main square, Plaza Mayor, is one of the largest in Spain and is great for soaking up the city, and the nearby cathedral is gorgeous. It’s actually two cathedrals —an Old, from the 12th and 13th centuries, and New, from the 16th — joined together.

10. Hike the Pyrenees

The majestic mountain chain that walls off France is laced with medieval villages, high mountain walking trails, and great skiing. It’s also the traditional start of the Camino (see #3 above). You can hike through the Pyrenees on one of three established routes, but it takes most people almost two months to complete the entire trek (choose spring or fall, summer will be extremely hot). Of course, you can also just hop on the Camino for a single-day hike or weekend hiking trip along one of the moderate routes. If you don’t want to go solo, you can take a full-day hiking tour of the Pyrenees from Barcelona with Get Your Guide .

11. Visit the Guggenheim Museum

One of the most famous museums in the world, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (a port city in northern Spain) always has some interesting exhibitions on modern art (including a permanent sculpture, “Snake,” that’s made of hot-rolled steel and spans more than 100 feet long!). There is also the iconic (and giant) spider sculpture outside the museum, and pieces by Rothko hang inside. Even if you’re not a modern art fan (I personally don’t love it), it’s still worth stopping by because the building is art itself. Frank Gehry, arguably one of the most famous living architects, designed it to have an eye-catching, undulating style, and the grand atrium alone is worth a visit. Admission starts at 16 EUR.

12. Explore Basque Country

Basque Country is an autonomous region in Spain, a place with its own unique culture and heritage. (The Basque people inhabited the area before Spain became a nation.) Located in the northeast corner of the country, you’ll notice the cultural and linguistic differences as soon as you step foot in the region. If you’re into off-the-beaten-path locations, be sure to tour Basque Country, which offers coastal areas, small towns, and mountains. Don’t miss the 153-year-old La Bretxa market in San Sebastian (open every day except Sunday), the Gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral in Bayonne, and Le Grand Stroll in Biarritz while you’re here. (The start of the Camino passes through the area as well.) La Rioja wine region can also be found in Basque Country — try its famous drink, a white wine called txakoli . Expect lots of seafood, lamb dishes, and pintxos (Basque tapas).

For more information on specific cities in Spain, check out these guides:

Barcelona Travel Guide
Granada Travel Guide
Madrid Travel Guide
Seville Travel Guide
Valencia Travel Guide

Spain Travel Costs

A wide open street in Barcelona, Spain with a huge arch

Budget hotels begin around 125 EUR for a twin or double and go up from there. Prices are slightly lower outside of the major cities and tourist areas but are about 20-30% higher during peak season. For larger cities during the summer high season, expect to spend closer to 200 EUR or more a night.

Airbnb is common in most major cities, with a private room starting around 60 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 120 EUR per night (often double that in the big cities or during peak season).

For those traveling with a tent, there are hundreds of campsites across Spain. Campground costs around 20 – 40 EUR per night. They can be as low as 5-10 EUR for a basic tent plot without electricity, while other costlier sites (around 50 EUR per site) often include extra luxuries like a pool, electricity, and Wi-Fi.

Food – Spain has a strong food culture. Meals can last for hours, and dinner often isn’t served until after 8 p.m. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, but there are some common favorites, like paella (originally from Valencia), gazpacho, churros, jámon ibérico (cured pork), patatas bravas (fried potatoes with sauce), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tortilla (Spanish omelet).

You can usually find tapas and sandwiches for 5–10 EUR. Assembling a meal of tapas at a casual bar usually costs around 15-20 EUR, including a glass of wine. Cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. Chinese food is around 10 EUR for a main dish, while pizza costs 10-14 EUR.

Beer is 3–4 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-4 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR. (In general, tap water is safe to drink in Spain.)

A decent casual restaurant meal costs around 25-30 EUR with a drink. If you go out for paella, drinks, or appetizers, plan to spend around 35-45 EUR for a meal.

Spain has a lot of expensive restaurants if you want to splash out. Meals at finer establishments begin around 55 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or seafood. You can find the cheapest (and freshest) produce and meat at local markets.

Backpacking Spain Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 90 EUR per day, you can afford to stay in a hostel dorm or private Airbnb room, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks. Add at least 20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of around 215 EUR per day, you can stay in a private room in a hostel, or a 2-star budget hotel, eat out at inexpensive restaurants for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 350 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out regularly, drink more, take more taxis, and enjoy more guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget work. Prices are in EUR.

Spain Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Spain is pretty affordable. While accommodation costs in most touristy as well as larger cities have risen greatly in the last few years, everything else is still affordable. Individual city guides have more specific information on how to save in each city, but here are some general ways to save money while traveling around Spain:

Get the menu of the day – Most restaurants offer a cheap and filling “menu of the day” ( menu del dia during lunch for around 10–15 EUR per person. They are a good way to save money while enjoying some delicious Spanish food. Wine or water are generally included, too. Look for more crowded spots — that’s how you know the food is good. Skip eating out for dinner — it’s too expensive!
Eat free tapas – In some cities (like Granada), you can find bars where free tapas are given out when you order drinks. Bounce around the bars to eat cheap while enjoying a few drinks.
Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodations while also getting some insights from locals. You might have better luck in the larger cities, but be sure to book early as the major cities also see the most requests.
Take the bus – While the train system is fast, it’s expensive, with high speed trains double (or more) the cost of buses. If you have the time and want to save money, take buses to get around the country. It will take longer but, if you’re on a budget, it will be worth it. And look at booking your tickets online and in advance — it can save you money.
Get a city pass – Most of the major cities have multiple museums, attractions, and activities worth checking out. Buying a city pass — like the Madrid City Card (from 8.40 EUR) or Malaga–Costa Del Sol Sightseeing Pass (starting at 14 EUR) — can save you money on these activities and also get you free transportation. These passes will save you a lot of money if you’re planning on visiting the major sights.
Ride a bike – Tourists can use public bikes in cities such as Madrid and Seville for a daily or weekly fee. Take note, Barcelona’s red city bikes (Bicing) are for residents only, but you can find shops that offer daily or weekly bike rentals.
Use BlaBlaCar – This app connects you with drivers who have room in their cars for additional passengers. Drivers are vetted and verified, so it’s a cool way to get out of stuffy trains and buses, meet interesting characters, and take a mini road trip. It’s one of my preferred methods of travel for medium- and long-distance trips.
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. Spain now offers more water fountains and bottle-filling stations than in the past. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Spain

Spain has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and hotels all around the country. Here are some of my recommended places to stay:

HelloBCN Hostel (Barcelona)
Hotel BestPrice Gràcia (Barcelona)
OK Hostel (Madrid)
Petit Palace Puerta del Sol (Madrid)
The River Hostel (Valencia)
Red Nest Hostel (Valencia)
Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel (Seville)
Onefam Centro (Seville)
ECO Hostel (Granada)
Hostal Antares (Granada)

For more places to stay, check out the city specific destination guides.

How to Get Around Spain

A relaxing street scene in sunny Valencia, Spain, featuring historic buildings and locals out for a stroll

Bus – The bus is the cheapest option for getting between cities in Spain. FlixBus has tickets starting as low as 6 EUR. Most buses come with outlets and free Wi-Fi. A 9–hour trip from Madrid to Barcelona starts from about 35 EUR, while the 4–hour trip between Seville and Granada costs around 25 EUR. Alsa is another popular bus company for travel throughout the country.

Trains – RENFE is the national rail line in Spain. High-speed trains are more expensive, but you can travel between Madrid and Barcelona in just 2.5 hours. Even on the more expensive high-speed train, however, you can find tickets from Madrid to Barcelona for as low as 55 EUR during off peak times in the offseason. The trip from Madrid to Seville is around 2.5 hours and costs 35 EUR, while Madrid to Valencia is just under 2 hours and costs 30 EUR.

A Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option depending on your plans. For more information, here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Flying – If you’re pressed for time and are looking to hop from one city to the next, a budget airline. You can find really cheap fares on most routes.

However, be aware that you have to pay for all the extras on these cheap flights (such as checked baggage, picking your own seat, etc.) So, while flights are cheap (Madrid to Barcelona can be found for as little as 65 EUR round trip), the little expenses add up. And when you factor in getting to/from the airport, most flights really aren’t much faster than the train.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for compact vehicles when booked in advance. Make sure to check if the car is standard or automatic when reserving. Renters will need an International Driving Permit prior to book. The minimum age for renting a car is 21. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the biggest company.

When to Go to Spain

Spain is lovely year-round, but the peak season — meaning, busiest and most expensive— is in the summer, from June to August. Popular destinations like Barcelona and Ibiza experience a massive influx of tourism — so much so that Barcelona’s residents have started clamping down on overtourism. Accommodations in the larger cities require serval months of advance booking is summer, and small shops may be closed in August for family holidays. The weather is fabulous this time of year, with high temperatures well into the 30s°C (90s°F)

The temperature in Spain doesn’t often drop too low, with winter temps between 4-10°C (40-50°F) country-wide. However, Northern Spain does sometimes experience snowfall — especially in the mountainous areas. While I wouldn’t aim to visit in the winter, if you’re already in Europe, this is going to be one of the warmer destinations on the continent, especially in the south. Madrid and Barcelona have plenty of holiday festivals in December and early January for Christmas and Three Kings Day. If you are in Spain during the holidays, visit a bakery to try traditional, seasonal desserts.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are great times to visit. Tourist sites are less congested (think Gaudi attractions in Barcelona)and prices are a bit cheaper, especially accommodations in Barcelona or Madrid. Temperatures are pleasant, although it’s not exactly beach season. Beach destinations like Ibiza and Mallorca tend to get very quiet during this time, but there is still plenty to see and do around the rest of the country. If you plan on outdoor activities or hiking the Camino de Santiago, this is the time of year to do it.

How to Stay Safe in Spain

Spain is pretty safe to visit. Violent attacks are uncommon, and the country is safe for solo travelers However, petty crime is really widespread and pickpocketing is very common in the larger cities, especially near major tourist sites (such as La Rambla in Barcelona) and on public transportation. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when on public transportation and when out and about. The thieves here are incredibly quick here. Report thefts to the local police, or ask your hotel or hostel how to file a report.

Be extra careful in Barcelona, especially in high season, where people may try to snatch your phone on the street or grab your stuff in crowded subways (pickpocketing is not as bad elsewhere in Spain). Also, never leave your backpack, phone, or laptop out and unsecured when at a cafe or restaurant. They can disappear in the blink of an eye.

Scams are also very common, especially in the larger cities (not that common though in smaller cities). Keep an eye out for kids in groups who might try to distract you before lifting your wallet, as well as people who might offer to “help” carry your luggage or take your photo, only to expect a hefty tip as thanks. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone at night while intoxicated, etc.). Many hostels also have female-only dorm rooms. For specific tips on staying safe, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on Spain. They’ll be able to provide specific advice that I, a man, can’t.

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

Always trust your gut. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and keep them separate from your originals. When you’re walking around, take minimal cash and one form of ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Spain Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Spain.

Spain Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

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11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller.

Photo by Francesco Lastrucci

It’s true: Spain is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This may surprise those who mostly associate the country with its golden beaches and flamenco (as I did before my nine-month stint in La Rioja), but the Iberian Peninsula kingdom comprises 17 autonomous communities—like Madrid and Andalucia—and they encompass a wide spectrum of cultures. Throughout Spain you can come across people like the Basques and the Catalonians, who speak their own language, and landscapes that span centuries-old palaces, mountain peaks, and even valleys full of cherry blossoms in the spring.

So yes, absolutely dig into that platter of paella in Valencia to experience Spanish culture. But think about visiting these 10 other places, too. Because while many of the best places to visit in Spain are well-loved, some offer a side to the country that may surprise you.

<p>It’s true: <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/travel-guides/spain/guide" rel="noopener">Spain</a> is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This may surprise those who mostly associate the country with its golden beaches and flamenco (as I did before my nine-month stint in La Rioja), but the Iberian Peninsula kingdom comprises 17 autonomous communities—like Madrid and Andalucia—and they encompass a wide spectrum of cultures. Throughout Spain you can come across people like the Basques and the Catalonians, who speak their own language, and landscapes that span centuries-old palaces, mountain peaks, and even valleys full of cherry blossoms in the spring.</p> <p>So yes, absolutely <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/iconic-spanish-foods-and-where-to-try-them" rel="noopener">dig into that platter of paella</a> in Valencia to experience Spanish culture. But think about visiting these 10 other places, too. Because while many of the best places to visit in Spain are well-loved, some offer a side to the country that may surprise you.</p> <h2>1. Mallorca</h2> <p><i>Balearic Islands</i></p> <p>Off Spain’s eastern coast is the island of Mallorca, a prime example of Spain’s mixed history. Here, travelers can find traces of its former Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupants, like the <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/places/la-seu-slash-catedral-de-mallorca-palma-de-mallorca" rel="noopener">800-year-old La Seu</a>, a Gothic sandstone cathedral, or the <a class="Link" href="https://www.illesbalears.travel/en/mallorca/the-arab-baths-of-palma-de-mallorca" rel="noopener">Arab baths in Palma de Mallorca’s historic center</a>. But to limit your stay to <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/what-to-do-on-a-spring-getaway-to-palma-de-mallorca-spain" rel="noopener">the island’s capital</a> is to miss some of Mallorca’s most beautiful landscapes. Beyond its clear-water beaches, the 1,405-square-mile island has dozens of designated cycling routes and <a class="Link" href="https://www.cuevasdearta.com/en/prices/" rel="noopener">underground cave systems</a> that have hosted pirates and Moorish soldiers. Take in the beauty of the island on a hike up the <a class="Link" href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1371" rel="noopener">UNESCO-recognized Puig Major</a>, Mallorca’s tallest mountain at 4,711 feet.</p>

1. Mallorca

Balearic Islands

Off Spain’s eastern coast is the island of Mallorca, a prime example of Spain’s mixed history. Here, travelers can find traces of its former Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupants, like the 800-year-old La Seu , a Gothic sandstone cathedral, or the Arab baths in Palma de Mallorca’s historic center . But to limit your stay to the island’s capital is to miss some of Mallorca’s most beautiful landscapes. Beyond its clear-water beaches, the 1,405-square-mile island has dozens of designated cycling routes and underground cave systems that have hosted pirates and Moorish soldiers. Take in the beauty of the island on a hike up the UNESCO-recognized Puig Major , Mallorca’s tallest mountain at 4,711 feet.

<h2>2. Madrid</h2> <p><i>Madrid</i></p> <p>The stairs out of <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/travel-guides/spain/madrid/guide" rel="noopener">Madrid</a>’s Sol metro station put travelers in the midst of the bustle of Spain’s capital. Appropriately located in the heart of the country, Madrid is home to some of the best museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The <a class="Link" href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/plaza-mayor-madrid" rel="noopener">16th-century Plaza Mayor</a>—which has been the setting of everything from fiestas to executions—is evidence that it still keeps its ties to tradition and history. Grab a <i>bocadillo de calamares</i> (calamari sandwich) in one of the plaza’s nearby storefronts or slip out of the city’s nonstop energy in the 350-acre Retiro Park, which is within walking distance from the Museo Nacional del Prado and Puerta de Alcalá. Just don’t siesta <i>too </i>much and miss out on any tapas bar crawls you have planned for the evening.</p> <h2>3. Barcelona</h2> <p><i>Catalonia</i> </p> <p>This coastal city takes an unabashed approach when it comes to differentiating itself from the rest of Spain, from the Catalan language to the warped, bright-colored facades of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings. Whatever gives Barcelona that <i>je ne sais quois,</i> it’s certainly resonating. Barcelona is a magnet for people from all over the world (more than <a class="Link" href="https://www.barcelona.cat/internationalwelcome/en/noticias/record-figure-foreigners-now-account-for-23-6-of-barcelona-s-population-1313513" rel="noopener">30 percent of Barcelona’s inhabitants</a> were born outside of Spain), drawing travelers to stay for <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/best-beaches-near-barcelona" rel="noopener">its beaches</a>, year-round calendar of festivals, and markets. For the first-time visitor, a walk down the three-quarter-mile Las Ramblas is a must: The tree-lined pathway leads pedestrians through kiosks, neighborhoods, and historic buildings before stopping at the Mediterranean.</p>

The stairs out of Madrid ’s Sol metro station put travelers in the midst of the bustle of Spain’s capital. Appropriately located in the heart of the country, Madrid is home to some of the best museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The 16th-century Plaza Mayor —which has been the setting of everything from fiestas to executions—is evidence that it still keeps its ties to tradition and history. Grab a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) in one of the plaza’s nearby storefronts or slip out of the city’s nonstop energy in the 350-acre Retiro Park, which is within walking distance from the Museo Nacional del Prado and Puerta de Alcalá. Just don’t siesta too much and miss out on any tapas bar crawls you have planned for the evening.

3. Barcelona

This coastal city takes an unabashed approach when it comes to differentiating itself from the rest of Spain, from the Catalan language to the warped, bright-colored facades of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings. Whatever gives Barcelona that je ne sais quois, it’s certainly resonating. Barcelona is a magnet for people from all over the world (more than 30 percent of Barcelona’s inhabitants were born outside of Spain), drawing travelers to stay for its beaches , year-round calendar of festivals, and markets. For the first-time visitor, a walk down the three-quarter-mile Las Ramblas is a must: The tree-lined pathway leads pedestrians through kiosks, neighborhoods, and historic buildings before stopping at the Mediterranean.

<h2>4. Seville</h2> <p><i>Andalusia</i></p> <p>Warm people, sunny days spent sipping sangria, and trees full of oranges—that relaxed, siesta-loving attitude of Spain is available in Seville. The capital of Spain’s Andalusia autonomous community still bears plenty of marks from its past under the Moors. One of the most beautiful places to explore its history is the Royal Alcázar of Seville, an 11th-century palace sporting walled gardens and geometric, patterned arches that have been <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/game-of-thrones-destinations-you-can-visit-in-real-life" rel="noopener">featured in <i>Game of Thrones</i></a> and <i>Lawrence of Arabia</i>. Stop and smell the jasmine at Plaza de España, and walk along the curving wall featuring 52 colorful mosaics that depict all of Spain’s provinces.</p>

Warm people, sunny days spent sipping sangria, and trees full of oranges—that relaxed, siesta-loving attitude of Spain is available in Seville. The capital of Spain’s Andalusia autonomous community still bears plenty of marks from its past under the Moors. One of the most beautiful places to explore its history is the Royal Alcázar of Seville, an 11th-century palace sporting walled gardens and geometric, patterned arches that have been featured in Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia . Stop and smell the jasmine at Plaza de España, and walk along the curving wall featuring 52 colorful mosaics that depict all of Spain’s provinces.

5. Picos de Europa National Park

Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León

While lounge-worthy stretches of beach characterize Spain’s south, Picos de Europa National Park is a prime example of the green, dramatic landscapes that dominate the north. The 250-square-mile national park was the first established by the Spanish government in 1918 and includes alpine peaks, meadows, and lakes that feel similar to landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Explore the jagged edges of the Cantabrian Mountains along the 7.5-mile long Ruta del Cares , or look for local wildlife like the roe deer and Egyptian vultures.

6. Valle del Jerte

Extremadura

Looking for a cherry blossom alternative to the crowds of enthusiasts in Japan and Washington, D.C.? Head to Extremadura, the Spanish region that borders Portugal between March and April (timing the cherry blossoming is a bit of a guessing game), when Valle del Jerte bursts in a sea of white as 2 million cherry trees bloom. Flower enthusiasts can tour the 144-square-mile area by taking a road trip down Spain’s N-110 road, which winds through the Cáceres province and crosses through the region’s 11 small villages known as pueblos . Come at the right time and you may be able to catch the flower festival as the villages celebrate the season with markets and exhibitions.

7. San Sebastian

Basque Country

The origins of the Basque people are up for debate, but the ethnic group—spread throughout southern France and Spain’s eponymous autonomous community—has developed a culture unlike the rest of the country. San Sebastián is one of the cities found in Basque Country, where Euskara is spoken on the streets—forgo the hola and greet people with kaixo —and the steep cliff sides resemble those in Ireland or Scotland. Indulge in small plates known as pintxos of prepared cod and local bounty, but make some reservations too, because the food scene here is top notch: 10 Michelin-starred restaurants are spread throughout this city of 190,000.

8. Cudillero

Many of Spain’s big cities attract tourists from around the world, so much so that its beautiful small villages can be overlooked. Cudillero is one of the nearly 20,000 pueblos found throughout Spain, and a lovely one at that: Located by the Bay of Biscay, this fishing village of around 5,000 people is a masterclass of slow living by the sea. Colorful, orange-roofed houses dot the hillsides, which also serve as vantage points for panoramas of both town and ocean.

9. Rioja wine region

La Rioja, Basque Country, and Navarre

Spread across three different autonomous communities, the Rioja wine region is known for its tempranillo grapes, which produce the tannic, full-bodied red varietals of the same name. The region’s ideal grape-growing conditions are thanks to the Ebro River, which snakes throughout the area’s rolling hills. Admire the scenery with a glass in hand and learn about winemaking at a winery, known locally as a bodega. Some of the most attractive, like Lopez de Heredia, are in pueblos like Laguardia and Haro; the latter hosts an annual wine festival in the summer.

10. Santiago de Compostela

During the Middle Ages, people walked from the south of France to the northeastern tip of Spain as a way to show faith, establishing a 500-mile route known as the Camino de Santiago. Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, is the endpoint of this pilgrimage and punctuates the end of the trip with its Romanesque-style cathedral. Even if you’re not a pilgrim, this city is a worthwhile place for exploring religious history and some of the dishes Galicia has to offer, from regional cheeses to seaside delicacies like percebes (aka barnacles).

11. Valencia

Despite being more than 2,000 years old, Valencia is still innovating toward a sustainable future as the European Green Capital 2024 (in addition to being one of the places featured in AFAR’s Where to Go in 2024 list). If you stop by the city, skip the usual systems of transport and pick up your bike and walking shoes. There are more than 125 miles of bike lanes throughout the city, and dedicated green spaces like Turia Garden make it easy to walk off that paella. For a piece of tradition, stop by during March, when larger-than-life floats descend on the city for the Las Fallas celebration.

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

Main content

StarTribune

The next total solar eclipse will hit these two popular world travel destinations in 2026, iceland-spain eclipse in 2026.

Feeling FOMO from not traveling for the Great Texas-Indiana Eclipse of 2024? Yeah, we know. Then it's not too soon to daydream about the next total solar eclipse, coming to Iceland and Spain on Aug. 12, 2026. It makes for a tantalizing choice for travelers.

Around 5 p.m. GMT, the zone of totality will fall across western Iceland, including the acclaimed, remote Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Reykjavik region, with more than two minutes of blackout. Then the moon's shadow crosses to northern Spain, on a swath between Barcelona and Madrid, for almost two minutes of totality. It ends near sunset over the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, etc.). Eastern Greenland, far northern Russia and a sliver of Portugal will also get in on the total darkness.

Grand Marais, Minn., will see about 6% of the sun eclipsed that day; Minneapolis will see only 0.49%. The next TSEs to be visible in the continental U.S.? Set reminders for Aug. 23, 2044, and Aug. 12, 2045.

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Airbnb updates cancellation policy

Airbnb is updating its Extenuating Circumstances Policy, including renaming it the Major Disruptive Events Policy. Under this updated cancellation policy, guests can cancel reservations and receive refunds in cases of "foreseeable weather events," such as hurricanes, that would result in another covered event occurring, such as large-scale utility outages. According to Travel + Leisure, the policy already applies to other unexpected major events, such as declared public health emergencies, including epidemics, but excluding COVID-19. This revised policy, which will go into effect on June 6, overrides individual hosts' own cancellation policies. This updated policy also applies to mid-trip cancellations, so travelers can receive refunds for the unused portion of their stays in the event of a covered cancellation.

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This European nation is encouraging retirees to travel by offering discounted vacations

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SPAIN / Created : Apr 11, 2024, 17:00 IST

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Administered by Spain's Institute for Seniors and Social Services (IMSERSO), this innovative program, termed ‘social tourism,’ believes that investing in travel for seniors enhances their well-being and fosters active engagement. A spokesperson from IMSERSO added that the sole aim of this program is to promote active ageing, intergenerational solidarity, and economic activity, while also nurturing inter-territorial solidarity through travel between different regions. Read less

This European nation is encouraging retirees to travel by offering discounted vacations

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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A small, black disk surrounded by a bright, white halo suspended in a mostly dark sky over the still waters of a lake in which dim, golden light from the horizon is reflecting. There are dark hills and mountains beyond the lake.

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Taking the train in Spain - all you need to know

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

Spain boasts Europe’s longest high-speed rail network, second only to China globally, and its trains are exceptional and far-reaching. In one day, you could gawp at Gaudí’s architectural genius in Barcelona , be whisked by rail to Madrid ’s museums, and still arrive in Seville for a sunset flamenco show.

Not that it’s all A to B whirlwind rail routes. There are some outstanding scenic train journeys to slow down and enjoy the Spanish pace of life, whether trundling along the northern coast’s narrow-gauge tracks or meandering into the mountains. And with some new low-cost operators now on the scene, exploring Spain by train has never been more affordable.

With over a thousand stations and thousands more daily departures, getting around Spain by train is a straightforward joy rather than a stressful necessity. Seat reservations on most services guarantee uncrowded carriages, Rioja-serving cafe cars provide perfectly wine-paired panoramic views, and electric-powered trains make journeys even more sustainable. What’s not to love? Here’s everything you need to know to plan a train trip in Spain like a pro.

Onboard an AVE service from Madrid, passengers are seen sitting and reading

Train services are generally excellent in mainland Spain

You can traverse all four corners of Spain by train, usually on swift, reliable, well-maintained carriages. Few areas aren’t covered by at least a regional service. And where there are coverage gaps, buses will usually take you the final stretch to that pretty medieval village. While strikes can occur, they are rare, and minimum service levels are generally guaranteed. Compensation payments are offered for delays over one hour, which helps keep timetables on track.

Renfe is Spain’s national railway company, operating everything from non-stop regional capital connections to short-hop commuter services. Iryo and Ouigo provide low-cost competition on the main high-speed intercity lines, with the latter’s double-decker trains being a welcome addition.

While the numerous names for differing service and train types can be confusing, the trains in Spain can generally be divided into three categories:

High-speed, mainly long-distance (larga distancia) services link many major cities, mainly via Madrid. These full-service trains can reach 310km/h (193mph) and include Renfe’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), its new no-frills Avlo counterpart, and Iryo and Ouigo. There’s an ever-growing network of high-speed routes , including the popular Barcelona–Madrid, Madrid–Seville, and Madrid–Valencia lines.
Mid-distance services – although they can sometimes cover long distances and reach speeds of 250km/h (155mph) – make up the majority of other major routes. Renfe services these under names including Media Distancia, Avant and Alvia. Intercity and Regional Exprés services are somewhat slower but only call at major stations. Popular routes include Madrid– Toledo , Granada–Seville, and the Euromed coastal service between Barcelona and Alicante . Nearly all long and mid-distance services use sleek, modern carriages.
Slower trains , including Regional, Proximidad, and Cercanías commuter services (Rodalies in Catalonia), complete the network. The older Cercanías AM trains, previously FEVE, mainly operate on the northern coast’s picturesque narrow-gauge tracks.

Nearly all large and medium-sized train stations are staffed and contain shops or cafes. High-speed train stations operate similarly to airports, with luggage security scanners and boarding gates. It’s advisable to arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially as boarding can close five minutes before departure. The bonus is you’ll have time to admire the stations. Some, like Toledo’s Mudejar-style ticket hall and art nouveau Bilbao Concordia , are attractions in their own right.

There are tourist trains and unique rail services too

In addition to standard train services, Spain has an exceptional selection of specialist rail routes known as “ tourist trains .” These range from seasonal, short routes, such as the scenic Tren dels Llacs in the Pre-Pyrenees, to indulgent, multiday sojourns like the luxury Transcantábrico train hotel. There are currently no standard domestic night trains.

Passengers onboard the vintage Dels Lacs train lean out of windows to take photos of the lush countryside

International and island rail routes are limited

Away from the mainland, the rail situation is starkly different. The Canary Islands have no train services, and only Mallorca in the Balearic Islands has limited rail connections . These consist of three short, modern lines and the vintage Sóller train.

Traveling to and from France by train is possible on France’s TGVs (from Paris) and Renfe’s International AVE services to Marseille and Lyon . Fares start from €29. You can also cross via Hendaye in the Basque Country or take the slower, scenic sleeper service via the Pyrenees . The Trenhotel (night service) between Madrid and Lisbon has been discontinued, leaving the Tren Celta between Vigo and Porto and the slow route to Lisbon via Badajoz as the only connections with Portugal . Work continues on improving the tracks to accommodate a direct, high-speed link between the two Iberian capitals.

Book ahead to save money and guarantee your seat

Spain’s rail operators all use dynamic pricing for high-speed and long-distance services. Therefore, early booking is advised, especially as seat reservations are mandatory. Advanced Avlo tickets between Madrid and Barcelona start from €7, with Ouigo and Iryo also offering competitive pricing on primary routes. A same-day ticket can sometimes cost more than 10 times more than booking in advance. Prices are less competitive on routes solely operated by Renfe.

When booking tickets online to or from major cities, use the dropdown city name followed by todos (all) to check for direct and affordable tickets from all stations. Provide the Passport or ID number of the photo document you’ll be traveling with, as tickets are personal. The second surname can be left blank – Spanish people take both their father's and mother’s surnames. Tickets can be printed, collected at self-service machines, or displayed as QR codes on mobile devices. Overall, Ouigo and Iryo's websites are easier to navigate than Renfe's, which can be glitchy. While most people would recommend using a third-party booking service – handy for comparing prices between all operators – direct reservations avoid booking fees.

Even short-distance, popular services with fixed fares (some mid-distance and regional trains) can fill up. I’ve previously struggled to get last-minute weekend tickets on the Madrid to Toledo route. Secure all tickets ahead if your vacation coincides with a major holiday such as Easter (Semana Santa) or Christmas, including around Three Kings Day on January 6.

Iryo and Ouigo release tickets many months ahead. Renfe’s tickets should be available at least 60 days ahead, but this isn’t always true. Check regularly in the months leading up to your departure and sign up for newsletters on the three websites to receive ticket availability and discount updates.

Occasionally, two single fares (ida) can be cheaper than a return (vuelta) . Reservations can also be made at station ticket machines (in English) or staffed desks. Larger stations may have separate sales points for particular types of tickets.

You’ll always be assigned a mandatory seat reservation. However, if you’d prefer to select your own to guarantee a window, you can change it for a nominal fee. Confusingly, Renfe’s website has this step after choosing a payment method.

Cercanías and Cercanías AM tickets can’t be purchased in advance and should be purchased at the ticket office, self-service machine, or onboard from the conductor when traveling from the tiniest unstaffed stations. This is the only time you’re allowed to board a train without a ticket.

If you wish to upgrade from basic class (básico) on high-speed routes, you can choose from Elige, Elige Confort and Prêmium on Renfe, or similar options on Iryo. Upgrades can include access to premium station lounges, at-seat food service, and more spacious seats. Solo travelers may want to upgrade to enjoy an individual seat in the 2+1 configured carriages. Ouigo allows these seats as a paid add-on without upgrading.

Two young women with suitcases board a Renfe train in Granada

Discounts and offers: know your benefits and bring ID

Much noise was made about the launch of Spain’s fixed-price travel pass . Yet this system, established to offer discounted fares on repeat return trips, is primarily aimed at locals and commuters.

Renfe does offer a Spain Rail Pass for travelers , covering between four and ten journeys. However, depending on the routes you plan to take, pre-booking discounted, advanced fares can be cheaper. Some region-specific options exist, such as the better value three-day Galica Rail Pass .

Other discounts available on Renfe include:

Small group discount when booking four or more travelers together.
Seniors discount, up to 40%, for over 60s. However, this requires purchasing a card ( La Tarjeta Dorada ) in person before making the reservation. Advanced, discounted fares can be better value.
Youth Discounts for under 25s with a European Youth Card or suitable International Student Card. A digital card can be purchased online by citizens of most countries.
Babies travel for free, as do children, although the age cap varies between operators.

Considering an Interrail or Eurail pass? Check on any savings first. All high-speed trains in Spain require seat reservations, an additional cost not included in these passes. Avlo, Iryo, and Ouigo are likewise excluded, and these cheaper advanced tickets may be better value than using the pass, though there is less flexibility.

Money-saving tip: high-speed trains include a free local ticket

If you’re traveling on a high-speed AVE or long-distance service operated by Renfe or Iryo, Combinado Cercanías is included. This allows for free use of local Cercanías trains to reach your departure station and again on arrival. Scan the QR code at barriers, or use the PDF code to get a zero-priced ticket at Cercanías’ self-service machines.

Seat reservations ensure most train journeys don’t feel crowded

Traveling by train in Spain is so enjoyable because all long and mid-distance services require a seat reservation. With no congested corridors or jostling vestibules, these trains never feel crowded, even when full. However, some regional and Cercanías services can be packed, particularly around commuter hours and Friday and Sunday evenings. You might want to avoid peak times or, when available, pay for a regional service seat reservation.

Plan around major events and regional holidays during your trip, such as Semana Santa, when ticket demand and crammed suburban trains are common. Trains in Spain operate every day of the year, though some services may finish earlier on public holidays. If you’re traveling on weekends or during holidays, check onward public transport in advance as small, rural stations may have a reduced weekend bus service.

Train can be the fastest, most affordable transport method

Using the train in Spain can be quicker and cheaper than flying. For example, a flight from Madrid to Barcelona takes 1¼ hours compared with 2½ hours by high-speed rail. But once you factor in security checks, out-of-city airport transfers, and runway taxi times, the overall journey length by plane becomes longer.

Driving distances are considerable. The same journey by car will take closer to seven hours. It’s unquestionably worth renting a car if you’re planning a road trip , but generally, long-distance jaunts are best by rail.

Most train terminuses are connected to city buses and, in larger metropolises, commuter rail or metro systems. Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Madrid–Barajas Airport are on the train network. If you wish to visit smaller towns or villages that are not on the train network, consider other ways to get around Spain .

A waiter at the cafeteria inside one of the trains of operator Iryo during the company's presentation at Atocha station

Onboard facilities differ between service types

All of Spain’s high-speed train services are spacious, comfortable, clean and well cared for. Carry-on luggage can be placed in overhead racks, while storage areas at either end of the carriage accommodate bulkier luggage. Popular services (especially on Friday and Sunday evenings) can quickly fill, and train staff will usually assist in rearranging suitcases to fit. Cercanías services can be more dated and crowded and often lack enough dedicated luggage space.

If you’re traveling by bicycle, check the luggage policies of Renfe and Iryo . In some instances, bikes must be disassembled or an additional fee paid.

The dining carts on Spain’s trains are typically stand-up, cafe-style rather than seated dining carriages. They’re good for stretching your legs or getting an alternative window view, but dining at your seat table is often more comfortable. A selection of hot meals, snacks and drinks – usually all of decent quality – are available, and certain ticket types offer pre-ordered meals served at your seat. Iryo has particularly impressive dining options .

On some routes, a trolley service may be provided in addition or as an alternative. Mid-distance and Avlo services have vending machines rather than dining carts. Bringing your own food and even alcohol onboard Renfe’s services isn’t a problem.

Complimentary (sometimes patchy) wi-fi is provided on Iryo and Renfe’s high-speed services, alongside entertainment portals accessible on your device. Ouigo charges per connection. Plug sockets (F-type) are available at seats on high-speed and mid-distance trains. Nearly all trains, except commuter services, have toilets.

Plan the perfect train trip with these scenic routes and tips

The most popular train routes for travelers in Spain are the high-speed connections that rocket between Seville, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. But riding the rails in Spain isn’t only about barrelling between urban sprawl. These are some of our favorite scenic rail routes worth planning into your trip.

Santander to Oviedo : Cross the lush landscapes of Northern Spain on this slow, scenic rail route using Cercanías AM’s narrow-gauge tracks. This six-hour journey provides some of the expensive Transcantábrico Train’s panoramas for a bargain €16.55. There are no seat reservations, which is handy, as you can switch sides to marvel at both the sparkling Bay of Biscay and the mighty Cantabrian Mountains , Spain’s answer to the Dolomites.
Barcelona to A Coruña : Once served by the discontinued sleeper Trenhotel, this is one of Spain’s longest rail routes, taking nearly 14 hours. The 9:05am Alvia departure can be affordable to cross seven of Spain’s autonomous communities. Pack snacks and pay for a window seat (ideally on the right) to see the full scope of Spain’s landscapes, from arid pastures and fertile farmlands to the verdant Galician Massif . Consider hopping off a few stops early in Ourense to use the town’s free-to-access thermal pools the following morning.
Granada to Almería : Leaving the magnificent Moorish Alhambra behind, set off across western Andalucía towards the coastal city of Almería. It’s a showstopping three-hour journey traversing the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, snow-capped peaks looming beyond, before cutting through carpets of cork trees. Book a late afternoon departure for ethereal golden light, or take two single tickets to plan a lunch pause at Guadix, best known for its cave houses.
Palma de Mallorca to Sóller: Step onboard the rickety, wooden carriage of Ferrocarril de Sóller , constructed in 1912, for a one-hour-long trundle from Mallorca's capital to the pretty port town of Sóller. En route, you’ll wend through the Tramuntana Mountains, unlit tunnels, and citrus groves close enough to touch. All seats are excellent, but you might want to stand in the open-air platforms between carriages.
Zaragoza to Canfranc : A one-way ticket on this twice-a-day, 2½-hour regional train costs just €16.90, and you’ll get plenty of panoramas for your money, especially after Huesca when the tracks slowly climb up into the Pyrenees. Our resident rail expert, Tom Hall, calls it one of Europe’s best train routes , partly because the landmark Canfranc Station has recently been reborn as a grandiose hotel .

Entrance to the beautiful Canfranc international railway station

Station tips when traveling Spain by train

Most large cities have multiple train stations, so always confirm departure points. When traveling to dedicated AVE stations outside major cities, check the station’s distance from the city center and pre-plan your connecting travel. Some stations, such as Antequera ’s Santa Ana, can be as far as 15km (9 miles) from the Old Town.

Spain’s largest stations, such as Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants, can be confusing due to split-level and separated boarding areas for different services. Don’t be afraid to ask for help navigating the station. A quick flash of your ticket will soon have you pointed in the right direction.

All major stations have cafes and kiosks where you can pick up food, although preparing a train picnic from a delicatessen might be preferable. Still, a quick tapas in Atocha's Tropical Garden, even if the pond-residing turtles have now been rehomed, is a solid start to any journey. If you’re on a connecting service with time to explore beyond the station, most larger terminals have lockers or left luggage desks (consigna) .

Many stations are accessible, but there’s room for improvement on older services

Adif, the agency in charge of Spain’s rail infrastructure, provides in-station and boarding assistance for travelers with accessibility needs via the Acerca service, offered at 145 stations.

When booking tickets online, H seats – accessible spaces that can anchor a wheelchair – can be requested on the opening screen, and Acerca assistance can be requested later in the booking process. A minimum of 12–48 hours' notice is stipulated, depending on the operator. However, in larger stations, staffed service centers can usually provide support without pre-booking if you arrive and register at the desk ahead of travel. Check which facilities are available at each station on Adif’s website .

In addition to offering boarding support (many train types require a stair-climber lift, not just a ramp, while others like Avlo have level boarding), Acerca can provide technical aids for hearing and a guided sight service. Contact Adif Acerca for information on induction loop systems or to discuss alternative routes should your planned journey include a non-accessible station without in-person assistance. Tactile paving, step-free access, and elevators are installed at most major stations, and nearly every train has a conductor or staff member onboard who can assist.

On high-speed, long-distance, and most other services, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are located in carriages with H seats. Ouigo trains have a call button on adapted seats to provide food and drink service, as the cafe is located on the top deck. Cercanías AM carriages have no H seats but offer a dedicated space for wheelchair users with tie-downs. However, many older, narrow-gauge trains lack accessible bathrooms.

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Plaza de España. The huge plaza encompasses a river [its four bridges representing the ancient kingdoms of Spain] and a marvellous…. 6. Prado National Museum. The Prado has one of the largest art collections in the world, and is best known for its diverse assortment of works by Velasquez, Goya and El Greco.
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As such we thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy. Read my full Disclosure here. In This Post. 1 Map of the Best Places to Visit in Spain. 2 Best Places to Visit in Spain: Iconic Cities. 2.1 Madrid. 2.2 Barcelona. 2.3 San Sebastian & Bilbao. 2.4 Cadiz.
28 Places to Visit in Spain
28 Famous Places to Visit in Spain. 1. Madrid. Plaza Mayor. Spain's capital city is situated in the center of the country and is a wonderful mixture of culture, elegant boulevards, and gorgeous green spaces like Retiro Gardens. The Prado is one of the greatest art museums in the world.
Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain
7. The Balearic Islands. The four largest Balearic Islands in the East of Spain, Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca, draw tourists worldwide. Ibiza is perhaps the most popular tourist location of these four islands, particularly for young adults looking for a new kind of nightlife to discover.
Spain
15 of the Best Places to Visit in Spain. Spain is one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations, attracting 82.8 million international visitors in 2018. We have collected the 15 best places to visit in Spain in the list that follows below. This is by no means a definitive list, but it can be your starting point if you are considering visiting the Iberian Peninsula.
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 ...
Your complete Spain Travel Guide: the best things to do, see, and eat
Spain is one of the best places to travel in April because the temperature stays comfortably around 50-70 F, which is perfect for meandering through a garden. Fresh floral blooms make a lovely contrast against the stone walls of medieval castles and Moorish fortresses. With orange blossoms in the south, almond blossoms along the northern coast ...
Spain Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Spain Travel Guide. Last Updated: February 12, 2024. Spain is a country that moves slow. This is the land of the siesta. It's a place for foodies, night owls, history buffs, religious pilgrims, and anyone not in a rush to do just about anything! It's a huge country with a lot of variety: Madrid and Barcelona are hip and energetic cities ...
Spain Itinerary: Where to Go in Spain by Rick Steves
This recommended itinerary gives you an idea of how much you can reasonably see in 21 days, but of course you'll want to adapt it to fit your own interests and time frame. Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona (sleep in Barcelona) Day 2: Barcelona (sleep in Barcelona) Day 3: Barcelona, evening train to Madrid (sleep in Madrid) Day 4: Madrid (sleep in ...
Spain Travel Destinations
Barcelona. La Ribera. 1. 2. 3. …. 17. Where to go, best places to stay, travel tips and and best holiday destinations - inspiration from the experts at Lonely Planet.
Spanish Tourism
Spain is filled with plans for you. Culture. Visit fairytale castles in Spain's most beautiful towns. Nature. 15 spectacular blossoms to experience up close. Routes. Route of the Monasteries in the Ribeira Sacra. Chillida, 100 years of the universal Basque artist. Culture.
15 Best Places To Visit In Spain
15 Best Places To Visit In Spain | Spain Travel Guide#spain #spaintravel #spaintourism #traveldestinations Welcome to the journey of the 15 best places to vi...
11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain
One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller. Photo by Francesco Lastrucci. It's true: Spain is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This ...
How to Plan a Trip to See the Next Total Solar Eclipse
Ballard added that the next solar eclipse, which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes. And if travelers are ...
The next total solar eclipse will hit these two popular world travel
Yeah, we know. Then it's not too soon to daydream about the next total solar eclipse, coming to Iceland and Spain on Aug. 12, 2026. It makes for a tantalizing choice for travelers. Around 5 p.m ...
16 things to know before you go to Spain
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.
This European nation is encouraging retirees to travel by offering
Spain, consistently ranked among the world's best places to retire, pioneers a unique initiative that subsidises travel costs and logistics for its senior citizens and residents, facilitating ...
Where You Can See the Next Total Solar Eclipse, in 2026
A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see. "Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year," said ...
The next total solar eclipse: When and where to expect it
Much has been said about the fact that a total solar eclipse won't be visible again from the contiguous US until August 22, 2044, but totality will only occur over North Dakota and Montana. The ...
The essential guide to train travel in Spain
Using the train in Spain can be quicker and cheaper than flying. For example, a flight from Madrid to Barcelona takes 1¼ hours compared with 2½ hours by high-speed rail. But once you factor in security checks, out-of-city airport transfers, and runway taxi times, the overall journey length by plane becomes longer.

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

Royal Palace of Madrid

Platja de Ses Illetes

La Sagrada Familia

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

San Sebastián

Sierra Nevada National Park

Royal Alcázar of Seville

Valldemossa

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

Cap de Formentor

Prado Museum

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

Plaza de España

Casa de Campo

15 Best Places to Visit in Spain

2. Barcelona

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