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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 . 

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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.

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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.

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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.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Costa del Sol

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Spain Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 12, 2024

classic Spanish architecture in Seville

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.

Table of Contents

  • 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 Barcelona

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hostels in Madrid

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Guide to Spain’s travel rules: what are the entry requirements for foreign tourists?

Here is an overview of the current restrictions on visitors coming from the european union, the united kingdom and the rest of the world.

Hugo Gutiérrez

The summer season has arrived and Spain is hoping for an influx of foreign visitors to revitalize its struggling tourism and hospitality sectors. While an uptick in domestic travel is helping, businesses know that the numbers will only add up when the international visitors show up.

Turistas británicos llegan al aeropuerto de Palma de Mallorca el pasado 1 de julio

Due to coronavirus measures in place, the options for travel to Spain will depend on the reasons for the trip (whether it’s for an essential purpose or for leisure), on the country of origin (part of the European Union or not) and on the visitor’s vaccination status.

But the differences in international mobility will most particularly depend on the visitor’s place of origin. Travel within the EU will be aided by the Digital Covid Certificate , which has been approved for use from July 1 and which Spain is already issuing.

Provided below are the answers to a few common questions about travel to Spain in the coming months.

Are there any restrictions on travel within the EU?

Movement within the EU is allowed, and the access requirements are the same across the territory. To ensure this, Brussels has developed a system known as the Digital Covid Certificate or Digital Green Pass (or more popularly as the vaccine passport), which lets bearers easily prove that they meet the conditions for entering another member state: either being fully vaccinated (the last dose must have been administered at least 14 days before travel), or having recovered from Covid-19, or being in possession of a negative diagnostic test (either PCR or antigen) taken 48 hours before arrival. This certificate is issued by national authorities in the national language and in English, and can be used in all member states.

Depending on the epidemiological situation, travelers from some parts of Europe will not be required to show evidence of vaccination, testing or recovery. These are the areas marked green in the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s traffic light system.

Are there non-EU countries whose residents may travel restriction-free?

There is a list of countries and special regions whose residents are not affected by the temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU due to their good control of the pandemic. They are Albania, Australia, South Korea, United States, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Rwanda, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, China and the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao (subject to the principle of reciprocity). Visitors from these parts of the world will not be asked for proof of testing, vaccination or recovery. The United Kingdom was on this list as well, but this is changing on Friday due to a spike in infections in recent weeks.

What are the requirements for UK residents?

Starting on Friday, Spain will demand a negative diagnostic test (” NAAT type, e.g TMA, PCR, LAMP & NEAR ,” not antigen tests ) or proof of full vaccination from UK travelers, due to concerns over the delta variant of the coronavirus . These test results must have been issued within 48 hours of arrival into Spain. (Full information is available here at the gov.uk website.)

Is leisure travel to Spain from other non-EU countries allowed?

Visitors from other non-EU countries coming to Spain for leisure purposes must show proof of vaccination with one of the vaccines authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), with the second dose administered at least 14 days before travel. Non-vaccinated travelers will not be allowed into Spain for tourism, even if they have a negative diagnostic test or have recovered from Covid-19, or if they received a vaccine that has not been approved by the EMA or WHO.

What about children who are not being vaccinated yet?

Children under 12 traveling with an adult who has been immunized with an EMA or WHO-approved vaccine may freely enter Spain.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. The Spanish government may leave out countries where new coronavirus variants pose a health risk. This is already happening with India, whose residents may not come to Spain on tourism even if they have been fully vaccinated. In practice, leisure trips from Brazil and South Africa are also off-limits since only flights carrying Spanish or Andorran nationals (or passengers in transit) are allowed into the country.

Are any additional documents necessary?

Yes. Regardless of the country of origin, travelers coming in by air or sea, including those in transit and children under 12, must fill out a health form available on www.spth.gob.es or via the mobile app Spain Travel Health. This will generate a QR code that must be shown before departure and at arrival.

English version by Susana Urra .

More information

Encuesta covid Instituto de Salud Carlos III

Despite eased rules, outdoor masking endures in Spain

Pedro Sanchez

Spain will require travelers from UK to show diagnostic test or be fully vaccinated

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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

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

The Royal Palace of Madrid has the distinction of being the largest royal residence in Western Europe. Although the Spanish royal family doesn’t actually reside there anymore, the 3,418-room architectural marvel is still used for state ceremonies 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

Pawel Toczynski/Getty Images

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. 

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

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For some, a visit to Spain is simple, a weekend on a beach on the Costa del Sol or a few days in Barcelona and that's all they are looking for.

But for the rest of us, there is so much to fit into a limited time that some hard choices will be necessary .

Spain is not a very big country if you compare it to, say, the United States, but it is quite culturally fragmented. Some things, such as free tapas with your drink, are only available in a limited area of the country.

Suggested Itineraries

If you know what you are looking for most out of your trip, check out these tips below on which city to start your trip in. 

For Cheap Tapas

Choose   Granada  (fly to Malaga) Why?  Spain is one of the few places you can get something for free, as there are many bars where you get a bit of food with every drink you buy. There are such bars all over the country, but the highest proportion of such bars can be found in Granada and other cities in the area (such as Jaen). Leon is a great city for this too.

For the Best Tapas

Choose   San Sebastian  (and nearby Logroño) or  Seville Why?  The gourmet tapas scene in San Sebastian and Seville vie for top honors in internationally acclaimed tapas. Logroño, close to San Sebastian, is a lesser-known but equally good challenger.

For Good Weather

Choose  Andalusia , but it depends on so much. Why?  Well, what's good weather? If you want to spend your time on the beach, you'll probably want to head to Andalusia, unless you're visiting at the height of summer, when it can be too warm here. Otherwise, if you want to go hiking in cool conditions, Galicia is your best bet, though it will probably rain. 

For the Best Wine

Choose   The Basque Country  or  Madrid Why?  San Sebastian and Bilbao, in the Basque Country, are close to the Rioja wine region, but they also have their own wine: Txakoli. Madrid, as the capital, gets the best of the wine in the country. 

For Architecture

Choose   Barcelona

Why?  One word: Gaudi.

Choose   Madrid  or  Bilbao Why?  The Reina Sofia, the Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Prado museums of Madrid and the  Guggenheim  in Bilbao.

Choose  Barcelona Why?  For its good access to the Pyrenees . 

For Bullfighting

Choose   Seville  or  Madrid Why?  Bullrings can be found throughout Spain. But a bullring doth not a bullfighting town make. Bullrings sprung up throughout Spain under dictator Franco as a part of his attempts to bring tourism into Spain. The main places to see bullfighting are in Andalusia (particularly Seville) and Madrid. There is also a number of  bullfighting festivals in Spain  which are great places to catch a fight. TripSavvy trusts its readers to make their own decisions on the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.

Unique Things

  • Africa is just an hour away. There are plenty of options to take  ferries from Spain to Morocco
  • In theory, nudity is legal anywhere in Spain.
  • Spain has a strong Muslim, Christian, and Jewish heritage.
  • No one will tell you that you're lazy for having a sleep in the afternoon! The Spanish tradition of siesta ensures that.
  • You can throw tomatoes at people and not get arrested. (As long as you do it at the right time .)
  • You can celebrate the most reverent Easter celebrations in the world.

Where to Go and When

Spain can best be divided into four areas: north, south, east and central (western Iberia is Portugal, which is also worth visiting).

Central Spain , which is dominated by Madrid, is home to historic walled cities such as Toledo and Avila , the windmills of Consuegra and grand old cities like Salamanca , Segovia , and Leon .

The  east coast  is also famous for its sun, sea, and sand, but it also has Barcelona, with its fabulous modernist architecture, and Valencia , the birthplace of paella .

The south of Spain is all about Andalusia , with classic cities such as Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Jerez and Cordoba to visit. Eat classic tapas, drink sherry and explore Spain's centuries-long relationship with Islam at the Mezquita in Cordoba or the Alhambra in Granada. Plus there's also the beaches of the Costa del Sol .

The north is an undiscovered country for many visitors to Spain. But with the modern cuisine of the Basque Country (especially in San Sebastian), the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the wines of La Rioja, cider in Asturias and the UNESCO-protected old town of Santiago de Compostela , there is so much to see in northern Spain. And don't forget all that seafood!

But  when should you visit?  For guaranteed good weather, the summer is best, though what you would consider 'summer' gets longer the further south you go. The big events of the year for visitors are Easter (Semana Santa), Las Fallas in March, the Tomatina Tomato Fight in August and the Pamplona Bull Run in July. But there is so much happening all year round .

Trip from Madrid

The capital of Spain, Madrid , is the center point of the country, quite literally, around which all else revolves. Most of the other major cities are on the coast, typically at least six hours away from the capital by car. Between these are a lot of agricultural villages and barren land, with Seville, Granada, Leon, and Salamanca the main inland cities of note.

Madrid is a good place to arrive, as the capital is well connected by train, bus and internal flights . But that isn’t to say you should hurry out of the country’s premier city. While Madrid isn’t in the league of other European capitals like Paris and London, it is a living, breathing city with every kind of bar , restaurant and leisure activity you could desire.

Madrid and Barcelona are obviously Spain's two most famous cities and if you can't decide between the two, then this is an ideal way to cover them both.

Nearby Cities

Madrid is a great base for day trips to the wonderful aqueducts of  Segovia  and the historical delights of  Toledo , with  El Escorial  also a short train ride away.

Madrid's location in the center of Spain, as well as its good train connections, means you'll want to travel by rail from the capital. This isn't always true for other cities in Spain.

  • San Sebastian
  • Lisbon, Portugal

Trip From Barcelona and Valencia

For a more cosmopolitan experience, there is Barcelona in the northeast, in the community of Catalonia. The locals say it isn’t really Spain at all and, while this is not the time to get into a political discussion, Barcelona certainly does have a different feel to it from the rest of Spain. It's spectacular Gaudí architecture , solemn Barri Gòtic and lively Ramblas street are as iconic as you can get in Spain.

Barcelona or Valencia

There are more flights to Barcelona than Valencia, so it is more likely you'll arrive in Barcelona. Valencia is Spain's third city (by population) and, like Barcelona, is connected to Madrid by the high-speed train (it takes about two-and-a-half hours from both cities to reach the capital).

However, Valencia is not Spain's third city when it comes to tourist sights. This may be an attraction in itself as the small city center allows you to ignore the vast suburban sprawl outside it. But for a full and active trip, you'll get a lot more out of Barcelona than Valencia. 

Barcelona is also much better connected to other cities in Spain than Valencia is.

Places to Visit

The top sights outside Barcelona are not cities, but rather the Montserrat mountain and the Salvador Dali museum in Figueres. 

After that, you have Tarragona, famous for its Roman ruins, and Girona, which is known for its Jewish quarter . 

How to Get to Other Cities From Here

Barcelona's location in the north-east of Spain means it's quite difficult to get to the other extremes of the country, though the high-speed AVE train helps for getting to Madrid and Seville. In many other cases, you'll want to fly.

Connect the dots with these routes.

The Big Three:  If you're a city-type that wants to see Spain's biggest cities on your trip here, this Big Three Itinerary covers Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, the country's biggest cities by population, in a tight triangle that squeezes in a stop in Zaragoza too. Much of the journey can be taken by high-speed  AVE train   or by bus if you're on a tighter budget. There's also a  Guided Tour of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia .

Barcelona to Seville:  It's a long way from Barcelona to Seville and you miss out a lot of top sights if you fly direct.

Trip to Malaga or Seville

The tourist brochure image of Spain, with its flamenco dresses, bullfighting, and blistering hot sunshine is not as universal in Spain as many think but if you go to Andalusia, you won’t be disappointed. With the Alhambra of Granada , the Mezquita of Cordoba , and the, well, everything of Seville, there is more than enough in Andalusia to fill several vacations.

Most flights to Andalusia arrive in Malaga, though there are a few to Seville too, so you'll probably choose to base yourself in one of these two cities for most of your time in the south of Spain.

Seville or Malaga

Seville is a far more attractive city than Malaga , with better food and plenty more to do. However, you'll find fewer flights to Seville than to Malaga.

For me, the best thing about a flight to Malaga is that you can connect easily to Granada. In every other way, you are better off in Seville.

Cities to Explore Nearby

All of Andalusia is within reach of Malaga and Seville, while there is also the high-speed AVE train to Madrid from both cities. 

Granada is the best option from Malaga, as it is just over an hour away. It also has good connections with Ronda and is slightly better than Seville for getting to Morocco.

From Seville, you have great access to the nearby cities of Jerez and Cadiz.

  • Jerez and Cadiz
  • Marrakech, Morocco

Suggested Itinerary: Andalusia

Andalusia has the highest concentration of tourist sights in the whole of Spain. The  high-speed AVE train  can take you from Madrid to Cordoba and on to Seville. After that, a stop in Granada to see the Alhambra is a must.

Trip to Northern Spain

To really experience the diversity of Spain, you have to explore Spain's northern-most regions – Galicia, Asturias or Basque Country. Galicia's national instrument is the bagpipe, while in Asturias you are more likely to find cider than sangria , not what tourists usually expect of Spain!

The City You Should Base Yourself in

This will depend on where you can get flights to. There are airports all along the north coast in Vigo , Santiago de Compostela , A Coruña , Asturias, Santander, and Bilbao , plus Biarritz in France and Porto in Portugal, but most of these are small airports with few flights. If heading to the Basque Country, you're most likely to find flights to Bilbao, if heading to Galicia your best bet will be to Santiago, though you might need to fly to Porto.

How to Get Around

Galicia is well connected by train, with a fast, cheap line connecting A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela and Vigo. If traveling between northern Portugal and Galicia, you'll need to change in Vigo.

And then there's the Basque Country. Bilbao and San Sebastian are, the two main cities, are close together, with regular buses connecting the two. There are also bus and train services to the Rioja wine region.

Asturias, between the two, is a less well connected, with mainly bus services to connect you to the east and the west (trains in Asturias mainly head south to Leon, also great for tapas, and Madrid).

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The Best places to visit in Spain in 2024

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Madrid and Barcelona are no longer a secret for you, but what about Marbella ,  Bilbao,   San Sebastian , Malaga , Seville ? Discover the best places to visit in Spain  in 2024 .

Find inspiration, travel more and spend less by booking your flights , accommodation and tours and activities in Spain at the best price.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Destinations in Spain , Best Beaches in Spain , Best Things to do in Spain as well as the Best Castles in Spain and the Best Ski Resorts in Spain . The very best destinations in Spain await you.

Best places to visit in Spain - Tenerife

1. Tenerife

Canary Islands

Tenerife is the Best Destination to Visit in Spain . Tenerife is the largest island of the Canary Islands . It is sunshine lovers’ favourite destination; it is perfect for young and old.

Nature lovers will choose the north of the island for its natural pools while fans of beautiful beaches will go south. The climate is perfect throughout the year in Tenerife (never below 18 degrees in winter and above 26 degrees in summer). It is simply perfect. It is also an ideal destination for diving and turtle watching.

You can also practice golf, go cycling, hiking or do paragliding. Leave your hotel and explore the local customs and crafts. 

Book your flights to Tenerife  as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Tenerife such as a volcano day trip with wine tasting or a Luxury yacht cruise with whale and dolphin watching ! 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Spain and the Best Beaches in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Tenerife.

  Where to stay:   " Jardin de la Paz " offers an outdoor swimming pool and a garden.

Best places to visit in Spain - Marbella

2. Marbella

Marbella is on your podium of the Best Places to Visit in Spain and on the first step of the Most Exclusive Destinations in Europe .  Marbella ’s warm microclimate and year-round sunshine make it an outdoor sports paradise.

The destination is a magnet for visiting golfers as it boasts the highest density of golf courses in Spain . Within the municipality, there are 14 golf courses, comprising eight golf clubs with 18 holes, one with 27 holes, two with an 18-hole course plus a nine-hole layout and three venues offering nine holes.

A gastronomic tour of this food-loving Andalusian city that can cater to any craving – and delivers views and vibes to boot.

With three Michelin-starred restaurants serving excellent cuisine, plus hundreds of smaller eateries dishing up everything from Mediterranean and Thai to paella and succulent local tapas, luscious food is a major part of Marbella’s allure. Moreover, with more than 300 guaranteed days of sunshine per year , al fresco dining by the beach or beneath the stars is practically guaranteed.

During your stay discover the Best Secret Destinations in Spain as well as the Best Christmas Markets in Spain .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Malaga, your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Marbella.

  Where to stay:  " Marriot Marbella ". Set within beautiful gardens on the sea front.

Best places to visit in Spain -  Ibiza

Balearic Islands

Ibiza  is one of your Best Places in Spain . Farniente, sports and parties…

Ibiza is nightclubbers’s Holy Grail and best DJs’ Mecca; it is a paradise for lovers of beautiful beaches, cocktails, farniente and neverending parties.

Book one of our best rated activities in Ibiza such as a scuba diving course for beginners , a 1-hour jet ski tour to Margarita Island or a 2-hour parasailing adventure tour .

Ibiza is the perfect destination for sport and boat lovers and for window shoppers; It is also famous for its nightclubs such as Amensia, EDEN, Es Paradis, Moma Ibiza, Pacha, Privilege, Ushaia and its 2 casinos, Bigo de Ibiza and Casino de Ibiza.

Ibiza is a destination of contrasts with nightlife, important cultural heritage and preserved nature. Nighclubbers will book their accommodation in the south of the island and lovers of nature and beautiful beaches in the north .

    How to get there:  Book your flights  to Ibiza. 

  Where to stay:  " Hotel La Torre del Canonigo " Stay in the heart of Ibiza.

Best places to visit in Spain - Menorca - Copyright Pawel Kazmierczak   - European Best Destinations

This summer visit one of the Best Destinations in Spain : Menorca . 

The most beautiful island in Europe awaits you for a  à la carte holiday.

You like nature? Menorca is made for you with miles of walks in trails, away from mass tourism, with its fauna and flora.

This island is much quieter than its big sister Mallorca ; its beaches and coves, its beauty and quality of life will seduce you. Rest, stroll, relax, Menorca is the perfect destination for a perfect holiday.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spain  and the  Best Beaches in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Menorca . 

  Where to stay:  For those who want to stay closest to Mitjaneta beach we recommend the " Meliá Cala Galdana hotel " with direct views of the beach. 

Best places to visit in Spain - San Sebastian COpyright  S-F   - European Best Destinations

5. San Sebastian

Basque Country

With its gastronomy and beautiful beaches, San Sebastian is one of the Best Places in Spain .

The beauty of the Spanish Basque Country is breathtaking; its atmosphere and positive energy are special; enjoy its sweetness of life, gourmet restaurants and  bistros and taste the famous "Pintxos" typical of this region of Spain. Pintxos are made of bread (mostly baguette) with all kinds of food on top (also in Asturias and Cantabria).

Take time to rest on the beach of La Concha after a light meal: the beach is ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Europe. This beach owes its name to its shell shape ("concha" in Spanish).

Do you really want to discover one of the riches of the Basque Country? Book a " Half Day Basque Cheese Tour from San Sebastian ", visit the Basque Country Farm Producer and taste some of their cheeses in a beautiful and natural environment.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to San Sebastian , your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in San Sebastian. 

    Where to stay:  " Maria Cristina " 5 min walk from the beach.

Best places to visit in Spain -Barcelona copyright  Igor Tichonow   - European Best Destinations

6. Barcelona

Barcelona is not the capital of Spain but it is the capital of tourism, shopping,  gastronomy, night life, youth and gothism. There are a thousand reasons to visit this unique city in the world that has already attracted millions of travellers.

You cannot miss a visit to the Sagrada Familia (go inside, it's really worth it!) and Park Güell. If you want to live experiences, book your tickets for a "Flamenco show" or a "Catamaran sail tour", relax, sunbathe and see Barcelona's beaches and emblematic buildings from the sea.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spai n, Best Things to do In Spain , Best Castles in Spain and the  Best Beaches in Spain .

There are thousands of experiences to live in this amazing city.

  How to get there:  Book your  flights for Barcelona , your  accommodation  and your  tours and activities in Barcelona. 

  Where to stay:  " W Barcelona ". 1 minute walk from the beach.

Best places to visit in Spain -Bilbao copyright  Salvador Aznar   - European Best Destinations

Come and enjoy  unforgettable culinary and cultural experiences in the capital of the Basque Country.

What is most striking about Bilbao is not its huge Guggenheim museum designed by the genius architect Frank Owen Gehry nor the gigantic bronze spider of the artist Louise Bourgeois in homage to her mother who was a weaver, but a rich mixture of all generations that meet in the squares of the old town in the evening  and have a good time together.

The big plus of Bilbao is not its museums, its charming hotels, its restaurants, but its soul and that of its inhabitants.

Discover one of the most pleasant cities in Spain by booking your flights to Bilbao , your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Bilbao such as a " Guided pintxos tour ", enjoy the nice typical Basque cuisine and discover the wonders of the city. 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Bilbao. 

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Tayko Bilbao " This hotel has an excellent location score of 9.6.

Best places to visit in Spain - Mijas  copyright Alexander-Tihonov- European Best Destinations

8. Mijas Andalusia

This small village, located 30 minutes from  Malaga , is one of Andalusia's best hidden gems . Mijas is not that small  but a rather large municipality located on the heights of Torremolinos, in the south of Spain.

The most beautiful part of this hidden gem is the old Mijas "Mijas cidade velha". Mijas is recognizable by its white facades with thousands of geraniums hanging on the walls. It's a perfect place for instagramers.

Book your  flights to Malaga  (20min by car), your accommodation at the best price in  Malaga  or  Mijas  and your  tours and activities in Andalusia  such as a private tour of Mijas from Malaga . 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Malaga (20 min by car).

  Where to stay:  " TRH Mijas ", a charming Andalusian style hotel.

Best places to visit in Spain - Seville copyright  LucVi   - European Best Destinations

You will have a real crush on this beautiful city in southern Spain . Seville is  lively, sparkling, historic, perfect for a city break in Spain .

In addition to its many historical monuments such as the Cathedral of Seville or the Giralda, Seville offers real experiences for travellers including a walk in the lush gardens of Real Alcazar, a Flamenco show or a romantic moment in a boat on the Plaza de Espana (elected among the best places for a marriage proposal ). 

Book your flights to Seville , your accommodation and your tours and activities such as a "1 hour flamenco show".  

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Seville .

  Where to stay:  The " Atico centrico con vistas " with its views of the old town from its terrace.

Best places to visit in Spain - Madrid copyright  Sean Pavone  - Copyright

You love Madrid for its culture, shopping centres, football, good food, Flamenco shows, nightlife or a romantic getaway. The Reina Sofia Museum and the Prado Museum are among the best museums in Europe ; they house masterpieces such as Picasso's Guernica or Las Meninas by Velasquez.

Looking for a romantic inspiration? Treat yourself to a boat trip on the small lake of Palacio de Cristal in the Retiro Park, ranked among the most beautiful parks in Europe and among the best places for a marriage proposal in Europe .

If you are more passionate about football than art, visit the mythical " Bernabéu Stadium " and learn more about the history of the Real Madrid football team. If you want to get away from the capital, book a " Segovia and Toledo tour with Alcazar from Madrid ". Travel more and spend less. 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Spain , Best Beaches in Spain and Best things to do in Spain .

Book your flights to Madrid and your accommodation at the best price.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Madrid. 

  Where to stay:  " Atocha Hotel " Private parking at the Hotel.

Best places to visit in Europe - Malaga copyright Sean Pavone - European Best Destinations

We have a crush on Malaga . No other city is like Malaga with its history, tradition, modernity, shopping, contemporary, modern and classic arts. Malaga and its beach, relaxation areas, gigantic hammams, small authentic restaurants, rooftops with breathtaking views of the marina, a ferris wheel, a cathedral , a castle and skyscrapers facing the sea.

Malaga is Miami in Europe with an extra sweetness of life and the feeling of being safe; families meet at night and admire the illuminations.

Come discover Malaga at any time of the year. If you want to think outside the box, come and visit the Malaga Christmas Market , its illuminations have been classified as one of the most beautiful Christmas lights in Europe !

During your stay discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spain ,  Best Beaches in Spain  and  Best things to do in Spain .

Book your flights to Malaga , your accommodation at the best price and your  tours and activities in Malaga such as a half-day excursion to the Caminito del Rey . 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Malaga.

  Where to stay:  Book your room at the " Molina Lario " hotel and enjoy a rooftop pool and a cocktail bar.

Best places to visit in Spain - Gran Canaria - Copyright Holbox  - European Best Destinations

12. Gran Canaria

There are hundreds of reasons to choose Gran Canaria  one of the Best Places to Visit in Spain . One of them is probably its unique climate. Gran Canaria also offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, villas, apartments with excellent value for money.

Gran Canaria is therefore a perfect destination for sun and nature lovers (its landscapes are so beautiful!) You are not the type to rest for hours in the sun? No problem, Gran Canaria also offers superb sport activities especially to fans of water sports such as scuba diving or windsurfing.

Come watch dolphins and whales , enjoy an affordable hotel, relax on the many beaches of Gran Canaria, experience a unique adventure by discovering one of the most beautiful islands in Europe.

Book your  flights to Gran Canaria , your  accommodation  at the best price and your  tours and activities  in Gran Canaria.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spain  as well as the  Best Beaches in Spain.

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Gran Canaria.

  Where to stay:   " Seaside Palm Beach " located 100 metres from the beach.

Best places to visit in Spain -Segovia copyright  Brian Kinney  - European Best Destinations

13. Segovia

Castile & Léon

One hour drive from Madrid (two hours by train), Segovia is one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain . Famous for its Aqueduct but also for its castle , (which inspired Walt Disney in Sleeping Beauty). Segovia is also known for its Cathedral overlooking the old town and its Jewish quarter. The city is a perfect destination for couples or simply lovers of history and medieval cities.

Book your flights to Madrid  (2h by car), your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Segovia   such as a "From Madrid day trip to Segovia with walking tour" to explore the monuments of the historic city.

During your stay discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spain  as well as the  Best Beaches in Spain.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Madrid (2h by train).

  Where to stay:  'Hotel Infanta Isabel ' situated in Plaza Mayor.

Best places to visit in Spain - Cadiz Copyright  Fabio Peixoto   - European Best Destinations

Cadiz (do not  pronounce Cadix like Luis Mariano did in the movie "The Beauty of Cadiz" (released in 1953). For some of you this song may come to mind when you see the word "Cadiz": "The beauty of Cadiz has velvet eyes, the beauty of Cadiz invites you to love...". This was a long time ago, but Cadiz is still one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and, did you know it, one of the oldest cities in Europe?

Located in the south of Spain, 1h30 drive from Seville or Gilbratar, Cadiz is a perfect stop during your road trip in Spain.

Book your flights to Jerez airport , (30 minutes’ drive from Cadiz), your accommodation at the best price in Cadiz and your tours and activities such as a "Tapas tasting private tour".

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Hidden Gems in Spain  as well as the  Best Beaches in Spain  and Best Things to do in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Jerez airport .

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Monte Puertatierra " set 100 m from the beach.

Best places to visit in Spain - Ronda - copyright  Sean Pavone  - European Best Destinations

Rewarded by travellers around the world as one of Europe's best hidden gems, Ronda is also one of  Spain's most beautiful secret destinations .

Ronda is one of the pearls of Spanish tourism, a destination visited each year by travellers looking for destinations off the beaten track. Only 1h20 from  Malaga  city centre, Ronda is a perfect destination for a day trip to the most beautiful places of Andalusia.

Book your  flights to Malaga , your  accommodation  at the best price in  Malaga  or  Ronda  and your  tours and activities in Andalusia  such as a day-trip to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas , another hidden gems of Spain.

  How to get there: Book your flights to Malaga (1h by car). 

  Where to stay:  " Catalonia Ronda " located in Ronda Town Centre, this hotel has an infinity pool and a rooftop terrace.

Best places to visit in Spain - Lanzarote

16. Lanzarote

Discover Lanzarote, one of the Best Places to visit in Spain . Nature carved Lanzarote . The island is among the most volcanic islands in Europe with breathtaking landscapes. Lanzarote is bathed in sunshine throughout the year.

Its neverending summer is perfect for black or golden sand beaches fans.

Lanzarote hosts rare species of plants and birds. Take a walk, discover the island, rest on its beaches, unwind while surfing in the most beautiful waves in Europe, relax and book your accommodation at the best price.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Lanzarote. 

  Where to stay:  " Hipotels Natura Palace - Adults Only " located on the sea front.

Best places to visit in Spain  - Mallorca Copyright Jenny-Sturm  - European Best Destinations

17. Mallorca

Balearic Islands

The capital of the Balearic Islands has always been a strategic point in the Mediterranean. Thanks to its excellent sea and air communications, it is just a short journey away: an average of two hours from the European capitals by air. Palma de Mallorca has a long tourist tradition which is reflected in the wide range of facilities and services on offer. But what really makes this city unique is the blend of influences and traditions of the peoples that have settled here over centuries.

Illustrious civilizations such as those of the Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Muslims and Christians have shaped the development of the city. Over time, Palma de Mallorca has become a modern, cosmopolitan city rich in possibilities, which welcomes visitors with open arms all year round. Palma de Mallorca is an urban destination ideal for both short breaks and longer holidays.

Book your  flights to Mallorca , your  accommodation  at the best price on the island and your best tours and activities in Mallorca such as a "Panoramic coastal tour by boat".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Mallorca . 

  Where to stay:  " Monnaber Nou Finca Hotel & Spa ". Guest have free access to the spa.

Best places to visit in Spain - Cordoba copyright  Taiga  - European Best Destinations

18. Cordoba

1h30 drive from Malaga airport, Cordoba is one of the Best Places to Visit in Spain . Cordoba is also the capital of the sun-drenched province of Andalusia where the heart of Spain beats. It's a destination to put on top of your travel bucket list as well as Seville and Malaga, the other two must-see destinations in Andalusia.

Cordoba is known worldwide for its "Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos" castle , but also for its old UNESCO-listed historic centre, its old white houses, its beautiful patios filled with plants, its small squares where you can rest in the shade of an orange tree.

Book your flights to Cordoba or Malaga (1h30 by car),  your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Cordoba  such as a " Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour ".

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Cordoba or Malaga (1h30 by car). 

  Where to stay:  " H10 Palacio Colomeria " offers an outdoor pool in the heart of Cordoba.

Best places to visit in Spain - Granada

19. Granada

The capital of the province of Granada is one of your Best Places to Visit in Spain . It is known for the beauty and its incredible castle, the castle of the Alhambra which is classified among the most beautiful castles in Spain and  Europe.

All the south of Spain was under the control of the Moors for centuries and they left an important heritage legacy that  makes the pride of the province of both Andalusia and  Granada. Even if you are not passionate about history, the Alhambra is breathtaking for the beauty of its lush gardens, beautiful fountains, patios... You can also visit the old "Great Bazaar" in the old city centre where  merchants used to sell all their spices; today they sell local products, Moorish and Spanish souvenirs.

Book your flights to Granada airport and your accommodation and be sure to have a fantastic holiday in Granada. 

During your stay visit the Best Hidden Gems in Spain and the  Best Beaches in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Granada. 

  Where to stay:  " Anacapri ". Stay in the heart of Granada.

Best places to visit in Spain - Formentera  copyright  Jeroceb  - European Best Destinations

20. Formentera

The smallest island in the Balearic Islands is also one of the most beautiful and wildest island in Spain as well as one of the Best Places to Visit in Spain .

Formentera offers miles of wild beaches and crystal blue waters. The secret of these beautiful landscapes? A very low occupation of the island by man, little urbanization and underwater bottoms inhabited by small animals that filter the water and make it so pure.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Secret Destinations in Spain ,  Best Beaches in Spain ,  Best Things to do in Spain  as well as the  Best Castles in Spain  and the  Best Ski Resorts in Spain . 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Ibiza  and your accommodation in Formentera. 

  Where to stay:  " Riu La Mola " set in Playa Migjorn.

Best places to visit in Spain - Nerja - Copyright Botond Horvath   - European Best Destinations

Andalusia is certainly one of the most beautiful regions in Europe. Imagine a region that includes destinations such as  Seville ,  Malaga , Ronda, Marbella , Granada, Mijas, Huelva... castles, extraordinary gardens like the Alcazar de Sevilla, the Alcazaba of Malaga, romantic places like the Plaza de Espanha in Seville or the flowery alleys of Mijas.

Come and relax on one of the  most beautiful beaches in Spain , the beach of Nerja (only 1 hour from Malaga airport). Along the promenade, on the sand, on the large beach of " Barriana " or sheltered from the wind in one of the many coves, come and enjoy a sunny day in this seaside resort whose name means "Abundant springtime".

For a breathtaking view of the entire region, climb to the top of the mountain " El Cielo ", the highest mountain in the region.

Book your  flights  to Malaga as well as your accommodation at the best price guaranteed in  Malaga  or  Nerja  and your  tours and activities in Andalusia  such as a day trip to Frigiliana and Nerja from Malaga . 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Malaga and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Parador de Nerja hotel " with easy access to Burriana Beach

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The 23 Best Places to Go in Spain and Portugal in 2023

By Redacción Condé Nast Traveler

The 23 Best Places to Visit in Spain and Portugal in 2023

The start of a new year offers an opportunity to draw up lists of resolutions, and in our case, that means deciding which destinations around the world we want to explore. As the editors of Condé Nast Traveller Spain , we have collectively created another list: 23 places that we want to visit, and revisit, that are close to home – in Spain and Portugal too.

At the same time, the editors of all of the Condé Nast Traveller editions around the world have been discussing, debating, and defending their choices in order to create a collective list of the top 23 places to visit around the world in 2023. We are happy that two of our picks – a Spanish province and a town in the Alentejo region of Portugal – made the global list. We also hope the double honour for these two destinations will serve as a recognition of their new cultural, gastronomic, and hospitality offerings as well as encourage readers to go visit and see them in person.

Before you read further, you might want to grab a pen and a calendar as you begin to plan a year full of travel. And don’t forget to visit our global list of international destinations to visit next year –  the best places to travel in 2023 , vetted by  Condé Nast Traveller editors, plus ideas for  places to travel in the UK ,  places to go in the USA and  destinations to book in India .

Bañndose en el Roque de las Bodegas

Tenerife, Canary Islands

“In whatever month you visit Tenerife, it is always warm during the day and chilly at night,” our contributor Raque Sanchez wrote in a love letter to the island that expressed sentiments we agree with 100 per cent. The largest of the Canary Islands is a good place to visit, in any and every season. While you are there you can take a dip in the Atlantic, gaze at the stars from the summit of Mount Teide (with an elevation of 12,198 feet, it’s the highest point in Spain), explore little towns, and wander along the island’s many beaches, some rocky and some sandy. Tenerife’s varied landscape includes forests, deserts, valleys, and ravines and the Anaga Rural Park is a highlight. There are also two UNESCO World Heritage sites : the Teide National Park and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

An added plus is that the island has a remarkably rich and diverse choice of hotels. Among the award-winning properties are the  Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden ,  Baobab Suites ,  The Ritz-Carlton Abama ,  H10 Atlantic Sunset ,  Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora , and  Bahía del Duque . On the island’s north coast,  BeTenerife offers an excellent selection of private villas for two or four guests.

It is also one of the best destinations in Europe for cycling enthusiasts, has long been a pioneer in sustainability (it has been recognised as a Biosphere Sustainable Destination), and is decidedly LGBTQ+ friendly, with an annual  Culture & Business Pride festival in June. Looking towards the future, the island’s Artificial Intelligence Tourism Master Plan is the first of its kind to be approved in Spain, and Tenerife aspires to become an Intelligent Tourism Destination – a distinction promoted by Spain’s tourism ministry to recognise destinations with innovative technological infrastructure that have demonstrated their commitments to sustainability, accessibility, and improving the quality of life of residents.

Tenerife also sparkles with Michelin stars. Among the restaurants enjoying that distinction are  M.B and  Kabuki (at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama),  Nub , and  El Rincón de Juan Carlos . Other  highlights of the island’s dining scene include  Kensei (at the Bahía del Duque hotel),  Kiki ,  San Hô , and  Melvin by Martín Berasategui , at the Terrazas de Abama Suites, where chef Sergio Fuentes helms the kitchen. You’ll also want to visit some of the island’s traditional beach bars including Punta de Hidalgo’s  La Cofradía , known for its limpets and shrimp;  Chiringuito Pirata , on La Tejita beach, where octopus is the signature dish; and  Bollullo , on the beach of the same name, where you’ll want order the cuttlefish. Clara Laguna

Zamora

Zamora, Castilla y León

Even many Spaniards are unaware of one of Zamora’s claims to fame: it is the European city with the greatest number of Romanesque buildings. Its sights in that style include 24 churches, a cathedral, a castle, a bridge, two palaces, nine manor houses, and the defensive walls that encircle the city. It is not surprising that the city is seen as a likely contender to be recognised by UNESCO in 2023. The city’s proximity to Madrid – less than an hour on the new high-speed AVE train – makes it an even more appealing and convenient destination.  

Zamora offers more, however, than just its Romanesque buildings. It also has an enormous legacy of modernista structures from the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Duero River winds its way through the heart of the city and shapes the surrounding landscape, and the Lagunas de Villafáfila are a birdwatcher ’s delight, home to a dazzling variety of migratory species. It’s just one of many sights near the city. Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in Europe, and a few miles away Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Farther south, the Sierra de la Culebra has the highest wolf population in Western Europe, although last summer’s wildfires devastated much of the area. Heading east, you will come across Toro, a beautiful wine capital where the LVMH group boasts its own winery, the excellent Numantia.

Nearby, in the heart of the vast plain known as the Tierra de Campos, the restaurant Lera has become famous as a temple to the pleasures of game and country cuisine. It draws celebrated chefs like Dabiz Muñoz who fill the tables at the restaurant in Castroverde de Campos, a small town in one of the quietest corners of Spain.

Finally, to the south of Zamora, the Arribes del Duero provide some drama. The imposing cliffs and the fjords below them act as a natural border with Portugal in an area that has attracted acclaimed international winemakers like Charlotte Allen from England, Thyge Jensen of Denmark and José Manuel Beneitez, originally from Madrid . Olive and citrus trees help to turn this corner of the region into a Mediterranean paradise. New gastronomic and hotel projects point toward the area becoming a little Tuscany in Zamora, even if, for now, few people in Spain or beyond have heard of it. David Moralejo

Mirador del Garbí Sierra Calderona Comunidad Valenciana

Sierra Calderona, Valencia

Located between the provinces of Castellón and Valencia, the  Parque Natural de la Sierra Calderona is a protected natural park that includes almost 70 square miles of pine and strawberry tree forests, ravines, sweeping vistas, and dramatic peaks. The summit of Montemayor, at an elevation of 3,320 feet, is the highest point in the park.

While the residents of Valencia know about this treasure – it is located just 12 miles from the province’s capital – it largely remains a secret in the rest of Spain. That means that visitors can still find tranquility and even a little bit of mystery alongside the park’s beauty and splendour.

A number of different civilisations and people have settled in the Sierra Calderona over the millennia. A trek through the range offers a chance not only to see all its natural wonders, but it is also a walk through history with stops at the 11 th -century Castillo de Serra, built during the Arab conquest of the region, and the Iberian hilltop fort Puntal dels Llops, which dates from the fifth century BCE.

Travellers interested in hiking and birdwatching will find a little paradise with several different routes to choose from: Garbi, which leads to the sea; the four-mile Olocau route, which starts in the village of the same name; the longer but largely flat 5.2-mile Portaceli trail, the more challenging 7.8-mile Tristán trail, and, for those who are more experienced and ambitious, the rewarding 23-mile Senda dels Cartoixos route that connects two historic Carthusian monasteries. There are also many other trails maintained by local governments and other organizations, like the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros, a popular cycling route that connects the town of Teruel and the Mediterranean.

The most visited peak in the range is Garbí, with a vista that offers spectacular views and is easily accessible. Other highlights in the area are the Serra Castle, the Portacoeli Charterhouse (a Carthusian monastery), the Santo Espíritu monastery, the Mola de Segart (a dramatic mesa), and the Font del Compte (a reservoir originally built by the Romans).

The Sierra Calderona is a natural wonder that has been passed down through the generations and from one culture to the next. If you visit, please leave it as beautiful as you found it. María Casbas

Briones uno de los pueblos con ms encanto de La Rioja.

Briones, La Rioja

The walled town with 700 residents is possibly the prettiest town in the Rioja. Its secret is its cobblestone streets, palecetes (“small palaces”), and churches. Located in the la Sierra de la Demanda and near many of Rioja’s best wineries, you’ll find vines growing in many of the postcard views here.  

You can start your wine itinerary right in town at the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, considered to be one of the best in the world. Displays focus on wine’s role in Western civilisation and the museum extends over 43,000 square feet, including six gallery spaces (five hosting the permanent collection and the sixth dedicated to temporary ones). The museum’s Garden of Bacchus includes 220 different varieties of wine grapes from around the world. A stroll through it offers a unique masterclass.

A highlight of the year in Briones is its unusual  Medieval Days in mid-June, specifically 17 and 18 June 2023. Declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2012, the event celebrates a 1379 treaty between the kings of Castille and Navarra. Almost the entire town turns out in costume for a parade and other events when Briones turns the clock back more than six centuries. The accommodations are far from medieval, however, at the new and charming

Santa María de Briones , a 16-room boutique hotel located in a restored mansion.  Don’t leave without seeing the town’s old pharmacy, now located at the Ermita del Cristo church. After its former owner left the pharmacy to the church in his will, the church chose to move the beautiful 19 th -century cabinets, apothecary jars, and other items and reconstruct the pharmacy on church property where visitors can admire it. Cynthia Martín.

Melides

Melides, Portugal

Suddenly everyone is talking about Melides . That may cause some wistfulness on the part of some, aware that the secret is now out, but that’s how it goes. The little town on Portugal’s Alentejo coast , located a half-hour from already popular Comporta , is now the name on everyone’s lips. 

It all makes sense. There’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with Melides beginning with the nearby Galé beach, where a red stone cliff of five-million-year-old fossils creates a dramatic backdrop to a long, sweeping stretch of sand. The landscape here still feels wild, something that it is (if we are honest about it) increasingly hard to find in Comporta though that town still has its undeniable charms. Alongside with its natural beauty, the beach has the plus of never feeling crowded. It is part of a 30-mile or so stretch of sand the runs from the village of Troia to nearby Sines. The waters are rough and cold, deterring all but the hardiest swimmers, but this stretch has another plus of fewer mosquitoes (which tend to plague the beaches that sit alongside rice fields in Comporta and elsewhere).

Another reason to visit will be added to the list in 2023. The designer Christian Louboutin, who helped to put this part of Portugal on the map with a 2013 campaign shot in the photogenic port of Carrasqueira, will open the boutique Hotel Vermelho . “Vermelho” is red in Portuguese, a nod to the trademark colour of the soles of Louboutin’s shoes. It’s a much-anticipated addition of big-city style to a town with fewer than 2,000 residents.  

The village’s charm comes from its typical Alentejo architecture, set amid a green and wooded landscape in the foothills of the Serra da Grândola. Olive, oak, and cork trees frame the views from the Vermelho mansion of the surrounding countryside. Louboutin’s vision echoes a phrase uttered by Tancredi in  The Leopard  by Lampedusa: “Everything must change for everything to remain the same.” The designer hopes only to breathe new life into place while preserving its peaceful atmosphere. 

Louboutin is not alone and the Hotel Vermelho will join  Pa.te.os , an impressive new hotel and architectural beauty designed by Manuel Aires Mateus. Made up of a number of separate villas, the hotel is reimagining luxury in the middle of the countryside near Melides. At the same time,  Melides Art , an artists’ residence and contemporary art space, has also been drawn to this corner of Portugal with its bohemian air, discreet charms (many of the admittedly bourgeois), and a pervasive sense of a calm. We hope the quiet survives Melides’s new popularity. David Moralejo

Mlaga

Málaga, Andalucía

Recently it feels like everyone in Spain, and a good number of people beyond Spain too, has decided to move to Málaga. If you are dubious, raise the topic at any dinner party in Madrid and you’ll soon learn about someone who has recently packed up and gone to the Costa del Sol or, at least, you’ll meet someone who is dreaming of it. 

The phenomenon has not happened overnight, though the rise of digital nomads and remote work have definitely contributed to it. If you can work from anywhere, why not choose a place where the climate is pleasant, you’ll receive a warm welcome, and the culinary offerings are excellent from the first bite.

If you aren’t quite ready to move to Málaga, you can at least visit, or revisit, in 2023. In fact judging from the results of the most recent  Readers Choice Awards from  Condé Nast Traveller , we expect the city is already included in many travellers’ plans. With its ideal size, neither too small nor too intimidating; nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine each year; the ease of getting there from other parts of Spain and Europe; its rich cultural offerings, and the pleasant setting it’s easy to understand the smiles on the faces of both the tourists and locals strolling along Calle Larios (the pedestrianised shopping street), the inviting Pasaje de Chinitas, and the waterfront Palmeral de las Sorpresas.

Recent hotel openings give travellers a varied choice of options. In 2021, notable hotel additions included  Only You Málaga and  Soho Boutique Equitativa ; in 2022,  H10 Croma Málaga joined them. And more projects are in the works. The best known of them is an enormous development planned for alongside the port of Málaga while others that we are watching eagerly – and which should open or reopen soon – are the Cortijo La Reina (following a complete renovation and upgrade of the existing hotel), Le Privé, and a five-star hotel planned for the Jewish Quarter that will be managed by Marugal, who also run the  Palacio Solecio . 

The list of additions to the gastronomic scene will entice travellers who live to eat. At the beginning of 2022, chef Álvaro Saura and entrepreneur Zuzana Salamon opened  Tasca Láska while Dani Carnero, who learned his craft from chefs including Ferran Adriá and Martín Berasategui, opened his third project in Málaga,  La Cosmo (following La Cosmopolita and Kaleja). Asturian chef Marcos Granda, who already has two restaurants in Marbella, Nintai and Skina, will land in Málaga in 2023, with In-Formal, a new culinary concept designed for the reimagined Gourmet Experience in the department store El Corte Inglés. 

Málaga has also been preparing for a milestone year related to one of its most famous native sons, Pablo Picasso, with 2023 the 50 th anniversary of his death. During what has been named the Year of Picasso, there will 42 exhibits covering the painter’s work around the world, including Málaga, where he was born. 

The  Museo Casa Natal Picasso will host several exhibits:  Bernardí Roig: El último rostro y La Afonía del Minotauro  (“Bernardí Roig: The Last Portrait and the Silence of the Minotaur”) until 28 May 2023,  Las Edades de Pablo (“The Ages of Pablo”) from 21 June to 1 October 2023, and  La Imagen de Picasso (“The Image of Picasso”) from October 18 to March 3, 2024. The  Museo Picasso Malaga will host  Picasso: Materia Y Cuerpo (“Picasso: Media and Bodies”) from 9 May to 10 September 10 2023, and  El Eco de Picasso  (“The Echo of Picasso”) focused on the master’s artistic legacy. Other institutions in Málaga are organising events, from talks to musical performances, marking the milestone. Expect more announcements in the months ahead.  

In other news, the Teatro Soho CaixaBank, Antonio Banderas’s personal project in his city, is staging a production of  Godspell , produced by Banderas himself and Emilio Aragón. María Casbas

Campo de Criptana Ciudad Real

Campo de Criptana, Ciudad Real

In a corner of La Mancha, travellers will come upon one of the most beautiful scenes in Spain. The windmills of Campo de Criptana inspired Cervantes, drove Don Quixote crazy, and charm everyone who visits this part of Castilla-La Mancha.

Campo de Criptana, Mota del Cuervo, and Consuegra have a remarkable concentration of some of the most picturesque and best-preserved windmills in the region. The three towns also have other charms that justify at least a weekend exploring them. Of the three, Campo de Criptana, in the province of Ciudad Real, is said to have been the specific inspiration for the plain of windmills in Cervantes’s book, which its famous protagonist believes are giants as he heads into combat against them.

In addition to the windmills (some of which are open to the public), the most important monuments in the town date from around the 16 th century and include the Royal Granary, the Convent of the Barefoot Carmelites, and ten hermitages – the most impressive of them is the one dedicated to the Virgen de la Paz, or Virgin of Peace.  A more recent addition, the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, dates from 1958 and stands on the site of an earlier 16 th -century during destroyed in the Spanish Civil War. The eastern part of town, known as the Albaicín, was originally settled by Moorish refugees from Granada after that city was conquered by Christians. Many houses still have original Mudejar details like tiles and wrought-iron grilles. Cynthia Martín

Comillas Cantabria

Comillas, Cantabria

Comillas is one of those places that is so beautiful exactly how it is today that you hesitate to share its name, for fear that word will get out. For now, fortunately, Comillas remains a traditional vacation town of northern Spain. There are more houses than hotels, and more people who are here for the season than for a week. Unlike some other similar coastal summer towns, Comillas also has a number of historic sites of interest: the buildings of the Comillas Pontifical University (the university moved to Madrid, though the buildings remain), the Sobrellano Palace (once owned by the Marquis of Comillas), the Baroque church of San Cristobal, and the archaeological site, the Cuevas de la Meaza.

And then that is also the work of architect Anton Gaudí who gave the city one of its most famous landmarks, El Capricho. This playful and elaborate house is one of Gaudí’s few works outside of Catalonia, but it isn’t the only work of modernista architecture here. In 1881, the entrance to the town’s cemetery and some of its exterior walls were redesigned by Luis Domènech i Montaner, another prominent figure in Catalonia’s modernista architectural circles He was also responsible for the town’s Parque Güell and the Fountain of the Tres Caños, or “three spouts.” A work of modernista sculpture from 1895 can also be found at the cemetery, the  Ángel Exterminador by Josep Limona. 

There are also English-style houses from the last turn-of-the-century, like the home of the Duque de Almodóvar del Río and the so-called Casas Indianas, the houses of locals who had made their fortunes in the Americas. (These houses will typically have at least one palm tree planted nearby, making them easier to spot.)  The town has even appeared in the Guinness World Records as the world’s smallest whaling port (it was active into the 18 th century). Beachgoers can choose from the city beach and ones in the nearby Parque Natural de Oyambre; shoppers will want to scour the antiques markets; and gourmets can count on eating well.  David Moralejo.

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Estación de tren de Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucía

Think of the cliches of southern Spain, and the words “wine,” “flamenco,” “horses,” and “cellars” may come to mind. Instead of running from them, Jerez de la Frontera makes the wise choice of embracing them. Bring it on, the city says, as it welcomes visitors – with the table set and wine poured. There’s no need to hurry, however. You’ll find time for everything in Jerez. In this city that embraces tradition, you’ll want to start your adventure on the right foot, with a toast.

Whether you are on your first or 10th visit to Jerez, strolling aimlessly through the historic centre is the best way to ease into this city. With each step, you’ll feel yourself become part of the place as it reveals its character around every corner and a history written by Phoenicians, Romans, Muslims, and Christians unfolds before you. Palaces and lavish city houses alternate with religious buildings like the famous cathedral and a late 12 th -century mosque inside the city’s fortified Alcazar, home to a number of historic buildings. If it takes your breath away, inhale and then follow the smell of wine in the air.

 Jerez is a leading destination for wine tourism in both Spain and the world generally thanks to its abundance of wineries, many of them belonging to the Jerez-Xérèz-Sherry denominaciones de origen or DO (the Spanish version of the French AOC for its wine regions). Among the acclaimed wineries are  Tío Pepe-González Byass ,  Sandeman ,  Emilio Lustau , and  Williams & Humbert . Oenophiles will also want to stop at tabancos, classic tavernas that are the perfect places to sample local products; a museum celebrating wine; and wine stores.

Some people might say that sherry is trending right now, but we think that’s not the right way to understand the situation. Sherry is a timeless classic that just happens to be enjoying a moment of positive attention. Jerez does offer more to visitors than its namesake wine. The Horse Fair, the Flamenco Festival, the Harvest Festival, and the Motorcycle Grand Prix all offer opportunities to dive into an aspect of local culture and celebrate with the city’s residents (who are excellent at celebrating). Whether your visit coincides with a festival or not, the city’s two Michelin-starred restaurants provide a glimpse of a lively gastronomic scene:  Lú, Cocina y Alma is led by chef Juanlu Fernández and  Mantúa by chef Israel Ramos. 

Another reason to visit Jerez de la Frontera will be inaugurated in 2023: the Museo de Lola Flores. The museum to the outspoken and beloved actor and singer will open on the 100 th anniversary of her birth in Jerez. María Casbas  

Puerto deportivo de La Coruña

La Coruña, Galicia

This little corner of Europe, tucked above Portugal in the northeastern corner of Spain, was long described as “the end of the world.” Recently, however, it is starting to feel closer to being at the centre of the stage. One of the changes is noticeable even after a short stroll: the streets are increasingly filled with people of different nationalities, speaking different languages, and wearing different clothes. Ask one of them why they are in La Coruña, and the likely answer is “to work.” Ask where they work and what you will get in reply is likely a gesture towards the west, and the neighbouring town of Arteixo, where Inditex is headquartered. (Even if you don’t recognise Inditex as the name of an enormous multinational clothing company, you likely know some of its brands, including Zara, Bershka, and Massimo Dutti.) 

The Galician city’s increasingly cosmopolitan atmosphere is apparent not only when wandering its streets but also exploring the cultural offerings of its museums and art galleries.

One of the most important cultural initiatives has an Inditex connection via Marta Ortega Pérez, who is both the new president of Inditex and the president of a foundation that bears her initials. The MOP Foundation is structured around three pillars: La Coruña, photography, and fashion. Last year it hosted the successful exhibition  Peter Lindbergh: Untold Stories seen by 110,000 visitors.

“After that success, it was clear that we had to organise another exhibition,” Leticia Castromil, exhibition coordinator for the MOP Foundation says. “We couldn’t stop there.” At the end of November 2022,  Steven Meisel 1993 A Year in Photographs  opened its doors and the free exhibition will be up until 1 May 2023. The show is at a building on the city’s harbour, the Muelle de la Batería. Naomi Campbell, Irina Shayk, and Christy Turlington were among the fashion stars who attended the opening.

“The exhibition space is a former industrial building next to the port. It’s located in an area near the city centre but which had been closed to the public. Thanks to this initiative, part of another dock is now accessible again and people can walk around it,” Castromil adds.

In addition to the Meisel exhibition, 2023 includes a milestone for a one-time resident of La Coruña. Pablo Picasso, who lived in the city between ages 9 and 13, died 50 years ago. “Continue doing what you are doing and never doubt that you will achieve glory and a brilliant future,” a review published in  La Voz de Galicia said after seeing an exhibition by a precocious Picasso when he was only 13 years old.

During the year-long  Picasso Celebración 1973-2023 a series of events and activities will take place around the world. In the region where the young genius spent four formative years, the centre of the celebration is the  Casa Museo Picasso . The  Museo de Belas Artes da Coruña will host Picasso, Blanco en el Recuerdo Azul (“Picasso, White in the Blue Memory”) from 24 March to 23 June 2023. The Fundación Luis Seoane will organise a show on the women who shaped Picasso’s life and the  Escuela de Arte y Superior de Diseño Pablo Picasso is also planning events to mark the anniversary.

Alongside the rich cultural scene, there is an impressive gastronomic one as well, led by Árbore da Veira, Omakase, Bido, la Taberna de Miga, NaDo, Terreo, and Salitre. You’ll find specialty coffee shops, wine bars, cocktail lounges, pottery workshops, bookstores, and design stores as you make your way about the city. All this, with the Atlantic in the background serving as a reminder that while this was once the end of the world, today it is a place where new adventures begin.  María Casba

Playa de Santa Cruz Aethos Ericeira

Costa da Prata, Portugal

Three Portuguese destinations are on this year’s list, and all three overlook the sea. Or, more accurately, the ocean. One of the Atlantic’s gifts to Portugal is some of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the world including the Costa da Prata. The Algarve may be more famous, Comporta and Melides may be more “cool,” and Cascais and Estoril have nostalgic charms, but the Costa da Prata has its own, undeniable appeals.   

Even the name Costa da Prata isn’t that common, yet, but some of the towns along it – Ericeira, Nazaré, Peniche, and Aveiro are better known, especially among surfers. We are stretching the Costa a little farther south than some would define it by including Ericeira, which is about 45 minutes north of Lisbon. For many it starts instead at Playa Santa Cruz, in Torres Vedras. That town, which is roughly 20 miles north of Ericeira, is the home of a hotel that is a popular seaside favourite of surfers:  Noah Surf House . The northern end of the coast is often defined as Esmoriz, a half-hour south of Porto by car.  

There’s a reason we want to pull the southern end of the coast a little closer to Lisbon, to include the new  Aethos which is reinterpreting luxury with a surfer attitude that embodies the relaxed vibe of this part of Portugal – and which is also, oddly, a driver of its imminent boom.  Immerso , the first five-star hotel in this region, has interiors that highlight brilliant local craftsmanship, giving the project a unique and very Portuguese personality. Chef Alexandre Silva (one Michelin star) leads the gastronomic offering, an ode to Atlantic cuisine. 

Nazaré is better known thanks to its record waves (it’s official: Guinness Records gives the title of world’s largest surfed wave to one at Nazaré in 2020. It was 86 feet tall and German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode it into the record books.) Nazaré itself manages, despite the fame of its swells, to remain a low-key fishing town, where some women still wear the traditional “seven skirts.” In 2021, an appealing new overnight option opened here, the family-friendly glamping at  Ohai Nazaré .

Peniche, and especially the beach known as Supertubos, is also popular with the surfer crowd. Consolação, another beautiful beach here, is capped at one end by a 17 th -century fort. The town is also a gateway to the Islas Berlengas, a half-hour by ferry. The islands form a protected nature reserve and only 550 visitors are allowed each day. Near the northern end of the coast, Aveiro has been nicknamed the Venice of Portugal and its colourful streets offer up a bounty of Instagram moments. We know the Costa da Prata will become a favourite of travellers as word gets out, just give it some time. David Moralejo

Estación de Canfranc

Canfranc, Huesca

It has been four years since we first reported that the spectacular Canfranc train station, inaugurated in 1928 and abandoned for decades, was going to become a luxury hotel. Despite the pandemic and other events creating some obstacles, the moment has arrived and the  Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel will open its doors at the beginning of 2023. 

Located in Jacetania, a corner of Aragón along the French border and high in the Pyrenees, Canfranc’s main claim to fame historically has been the elaborate station which was constructed to facilitate and celebrate French and Spanish cooperation. Despite the grandeur of the inauguration, with King Alfonso XIII representing Spain alongside France’s president, traffic never lived up to the original forecasts and the station closed in 1970. Today the only train to use the station is a short-distance tourist one, the Canfranero, that travels the 117 miles from Zaragoza to Canfranc. 

A century after construction started on the original station, the building will begin its new life as a five-star, 104-room hotel in 2023 with the design studio Ilmiodesign responsible for the interiors. The developers’ goal is to make the hotel a leader in tourism to the Aragonese portion of the Pyrenees, helping to attract both national and international interest.

The project preserves the historic building and will support the local economy with the creation of around 150 jobs. Guests arriving at the hotel will find reception in the historic station lobby while the first floor also houses a wellness area, a library, and the main restaurant, which includes two carriages that have been refurbished to become elegant dining cars.

Architect Michele Corbani and industrial designer Andrea Spada, the founders of Ilmiodesign, were inspired by the aesthetics of classic stations and the luxurious world of long-distance train travel in the early 20th century, but they also wanted to add a contemporary touch, creating warm and elegant spaces that blend with subtle Art Deco elements. Wood, brass, velvet, and a palette inspired by the 1920s coexist with various elements drawn from Aragonese popular culture and colour combinations inspired by the regional costumes of the region.

Don’t fear that it will no longer be possible to reach Canfranc by train, on the Canfranero. While the hotel was being restored, a new railway station and platforms were also constructed. 

The Canfranc Estación hotel will put the Aragonese town on the radar of many travellers, but Canfranc will keep their interest thanks to the mesmerising beauty of the place, set amid the stunning peaks of the Pyrenees. While the station’s meticulous restoration allows it to begin its new life, when you hear the words “next stop, Canfranc” you’ll be adding some more lines to an ongoing story collectively written by thousands of passengers under a dizzying variety of circumstances with each leading to its own final destination.  María Casbas

Las Merindades Burgos

Las Merindades, Burgos, Castilla and León

Alfoz de Bricia, Alfoz de Santa Gadea, Arija, Berberana, Cillaperlata, Espinosa de los Monteros, Frías, Junta de Traslaloma, Medina de Pomar are some of the 26 towns and cities that make up Las Merindades, a corner of Castilla and León that sits just to the south of the Basque region. The capital of Las Merindades is Villarcayo de Merindad de La Vieja, a town of some 4,000 residents that provides a good starting point for visiting the historic region.

Arguably the most magical settlement in the region is Puentedey, a small village with less than fifty residents. Built along the Nela river, the two sides of Puentedey are connected by a natural stone bridge. In 2022, the village’s beauty and its cultural importance was officially recognised when it was added to the list of the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain in 2022 – a club that includes 105 localities to date. Puentedey is not alone when it comes to gems in the area. Frias, located atop a mesa overlooking the Ebro river, would also have a good claim to the title of the prettiest village in Spain if not for being disqualified on a technicality. In 1435, King Juan II of Castille gave Frias, now home to only 270 people, the title of “city” making it the smallest city in Spain. 

Those are only two of the many reasons to go to Las Merindades. There’s also the natural beauty of the region, thanks to its location in the foothills of the Cantabrian Range cooled by Atlantic breezes, a sense of history that is palpable in every town, castle, and even house, and surprises like the Ojo Guareña, a karst cave complex with almost 70 miles of galleries and passageways that have been used for shelter by humans for millennia. David Moralejo

Fbrica La Encartada

Enkarterri, Basque Region

Few people know about Enkarterri, a rich and surprising corner of the province of Vizcaya. (Enkarterri is its Basque name, in Spanish it is Encartaciones.) Those who discover it, however, tend to return. Only 35 minutes southwest of Bilbao, the sea and the mountains meet here in a land of green valleys that sits at the point where Burgos, Cantabria, and the Basque Country meet. The area also has an important “Indiano” heritage – that’s the word used in Spain to describe Spaniards who went to the Americas, or the Indies as it were, to make their fortunes. You can look inside some of the lavish Casas Indianas, mansions that are the results of 19 th -century versions of the American dream. Another important reminder of Vizcaya’s economic history is apparent in the factories and plants that dot the landscape here. One used to be dedicated to the production of that essential Basque accessory, the beret. In operation until 1992, and then converted into a museum in 2007,  La Enkartada offers a glimpse into northern Spain’s industrial past, and a lesson in how berets are made.

After exploring the factory, fill your stomach at  Casa Garras , an institution going on its fifth decade thanks to its evergreen appeal. Carnivores will fall hard for the “beef days,” which take place during the winter months, when the restaurant serves an 11-course beef-themed tasting menu with delicious creations like a rump steak tartar with roasted marrow.

And there is more. Txacolí, the sparkling white wine produced in this part of Spain, always provides a good excuse to explore different wineries set amid the region’s beautifully wild landscapes including the biggest valley in the province (Karrantza Harana/Valle de Carranza, which includes some 49 settlements along its length). There are many options for hikers, bikers, spelunkers, as well as those looking for more low-impact activities like the Japanese tradition of “forest bathing.” On a completely different topic, the area is also home to  the largest private collection of Rolls-Royces in Europe, located in a 14 th -century castle. Cynthia Martín

Edificios en la fotognica plaza Daoíz y Velarde de Oviedo.

Oviedo, Asturias

Oviedo, the elegant capital of Asturias, is known for the distinguished neoclassical architecture surrounding the city’s imposing cathedral in a flamboyant Gothic style and its remarkable pre-Romanesque buildings from the ninth century, with five works recognised by UNESCO: the Foncalada Fountains, the city walls, and three churches: Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo, and San Julián de los Prados, known as Santullano. The city is also a top cultural and gastronomic destination.

Culture permeates life in this city thanks in large part to the Princess of Asturias Awards which are presented every year at the Campoamor Theater. In 2023, the ceremony will also celebrate the coming of age of the awards’ namesake, Leonor, the first-born daughter of the King and Queen of Spain and heir presumptive. The year ahead will bring some welcome additions to Oviedo. The Wamba Hotel from the  Sensia Hotels group will open next to the cathedral while a much-anticipated AVE high-speed train from Madrid will enter service in May, making it possible to travel from the capital of Spain to the capital of Asturias in about three hours.  This remarkable engineering project has taken years to complete and includes a 15-mile-long tunnel, one of the longest in Europe, which crosses the Cantabrian Range under the Puerto de Pajares mountain pass. 

Meanwhile, Oviedo continues to embrace its gastronomic heritage that makes it one of the great epicentres of cuisine in the country. The city can boast of nine stars from Michelin, with Casa Marcial holding two of them. In total, 43 restaurants in the city are recommended by the guide. Some local favourites include Cocina Cabal, Ca'Suso, Salazogue, Casa Fermín, Mestura, and Gloria.

Director Woody Allen captured the essence of the city when he listed its positive qualities: “Oviedo is delicious, exotic, beautiful, clean, pleasant, peaceful, and kind to pedestrians. It’s as if it doesn't belong to this world, as if it could not possibly exist. Oviedo is like a fairytale.” David Moralejo

Laguna salada de Calanda Teruel Aragón

Bajo (or Lower) Aragon

Spain constantly rewards travellers who want to venture off the beaten patch. Bajo, or Lower, Aragon is an outstanding example of this truth. Located roughly 90 minutes by car to the northwest of Valencia, Bajo Aragon is known for its processions of drummers during Holy Week while fans of motorsports head to  MotorLand , but there’s more to entice travellers. Its landscape of chasms, rivers, and marshes has been shaped by the extreme climate and the passage of time, giving rise to the area’s unique flora and fauna. In addition, the generally clear skies and the low light pollution in this largely empty part of Spain adds up to remarkable stargazing opportunities.

It is not easy to find top-of-the-line hotels here, but there are some promising new ventures like the beautiful  Torre del Marqués , while the  Parador de Alcañiz has an incomparable hilltop setting next to a castle and convent. At its restaurant, La Concordia, you can discover some of the highlights of Aragonese cuisine, often overshadowed by other regions, like migas (a dish made with stale bread, soaked and then sauteed with other ingredients), lamb, and, of course, ham from Teruel.

The ambitious ongoing project of restoring the Convent of the Desert, an 18 th -century convent that has been called the Escorial of Aragon given its enormous size, is also attracting interest while in Calanda, the birthplace of surrealist director Luis Buñuel, you can visit a museum, the  Centro Buñuel Calanda , dedicated to his films and life. Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll likely be getting in a lot of steps as you visit cave paintings (Val del Charco del Agua Amarga), Iberian sites (on the Route of the Iberians of Bajo Aragón), climb mountains (following the Route of the Stony Giants), or gaze at the stars (on the Route of Astronomical Viewpoints). Other sites are just half an hour away, like Matarraña (another idyllic rural corner of Spain) and Campo de Belchite, the birthplace of painter Francisco Goya.  Clara Laguna

Isla de Corvo Azores

Ilha do Corvo, Azores, Portugal

We like the remote and the unknown and that’s why this year we want to send you to the smallest and most remote island of Portugal’s Azores . Quite likely on your trip to the archipelago, often described as the Atlantic’s Hawaii (though with far fewer tourists), you will hop among a few islands. If that if your plan, include Corvo on your list of ports of call.

There’s only one paved road on the island. Follow it to Caldeirão, the crater of the volcano that gave birth to the island. From its viewpoint you will be able to take in its enormous size, almost 1.5 miles in circumference and almost 1,000 feet deep. At the bottom of the crater are two lakes where, according to legend, all the islands of the Azores are reflected on their surfaces. Cows and wild horses graze freely in this natural wonder, for immediately apparent reasons, the most photographed place in Corvo.

A small airport and ferries that cross daily from the island of Flores connect Corvo with the rest of the world, as does free Wi-Fi throughout its (tiny) territory. Tiny but with its own city. Fewer than 500 inhabitants reside in Vila do Corvo in a handful of whitewashed houses with red roofs. You’ll find most locals are happy to chat with curious visitors. Operators here offer a myriad of bird-watching tours – the island it is considered one of the best areas in the world to spot a variety of species; its status as the westernmost of the Azores adds to its diversity with some vagrants from the Americas landing here. Other guides offer boat trips around the island, if the sea permits, with chances to swim alongside steep cliffs that plunge into the water. David Moralejo

Vistas desde la terraza del 360º Rooftop Bar.

The capital of Spain continues its ascent to the top of lists of must-visit cities. Madrid has always extended a warm welcome, but there is a new energy and bustle as it assumes its place as a cosmopolitan, world capital. In the spring of 2022, we dedicated the cover of our 15 th anniversary issue to the city, and now it is already time to revisit it and update the list of new and upcoming openings. The reasons to visit Madrid will only increase in 2023.

 Both familiar and avant-garde; a cultural, gastronomic, and wellness centre, Madrid is a city of contrasts that never stops. Luxury hotel brands all want a presence here, and thus we have seen the recent openings of the  Mandarin Oriental Ritz and the  Rosewood Villa Magna . Only a little bit older, the  Four Seasons Madrid , the  Madrid EDITION , and  Thompson Madrid have added to the wealth of choices. And, while it’s not a new property, the renovation of the  Santo Mauro has elevated a favourite to a new level of luxury as it joins Starwood’s Luxury Collection.

Madrid, however, is far from done. The brand new  UMusic Hotel , the first hotel from Universal Music, is located in the old Teatro Albéniz building, a very short walk from the Plaza Mayor. Coming up next are the  Nobu Hotel Madrid , located halfway between the Puerta del Sol and the Paseo del Prado. The early-20 th -century landmark Metropolis building is set to be reborn with a boutique hotel, restaurants, and shopping and just a little further up the Gran Via, Brach Madrid, designed by Philippe Starck, is another much-anticipated opening of 2023. There are still rumours that Fairmont will be joining the mix soon with a property near the Congress building, and another surprising addition is a hotel on Plaza de Canalejas from Pescaderías Coruñesas, known for its critically acclaimed restaurants and gourmet fish stores. This is their first foray into hotels. All of these projects near the Puerta del Sol are earning the area the nickname, Milla de Oro, or “golden mile.” If your budget doesn’t include staying at one of these new hotels, at least visit its restaurants, spas, and rooftops (the competition is fierce in that last category). Two somewhat different options nearby are  Cool Rooms Palacio de Atocha (if you would like to stay in a 19 th -century palace given a contemporary update) and the new  https://www.thesocialhub.co/madrid/ (if you would like to stay in a co-working space, though one with incredible views and a full calendar of events. 

When it comes to shopping, stops you may want to include are the enormous Zara (the world’s largest) on Plaza de España, the revolutionary  WOW Concept store on Gran Vía, and  Galeria Canalejas , where you’ll find 11 iconic international brands including Hermès, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton). Madrid’s culinary scene continues to dazzle – if you want to visit some of the new stars, plan on making reservations far in advance. Among the most coveted tables are Leña and Smoked Room by Dani García and Amós, at the Rosewood Villa Magna, led by three-Michelin-star chef Jesús Sánchez (for his Cenador de Amós, on the Cantabrian coast). Desde 1911 is a sophisticated option and the venerated Zuara is among the best Japanese restaurants in the city.  At Zuma, Berria,  Bar Trafalgar , and the cocktail lounge  Isa (at the Four Seasons), you are guaranteed to eat  and drink well.  If you want to keep the party going into the morning, Lula Club and Medias Puri are two popular choices at the moment. Don’t be surprised if you decide you need one more weekend day, and night, with Madrid. This city, well, it can be a lot. Clara Laguna

Santa Iglesia Catedral de Santa María Murcia

Murcia, the city and region

Ask Spaniards of a certain age about the phrase, “Murcia, qué hermosa eres” (“Murcia, how beautiful you are”) and they will likely recall an odd television variety show from the late 1990s that promoted the region, and successfully implanted a slogan in viewers of several generations. Now many of those same people are discovering the truth of the motto.

The beauty of the province of Murcia can be experienced at  the Regional Park of Calblanque, the Monte de las Ceniza, and Peña del Aguila , perhaps one of the most beautiful and wild stretches of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline. The waters at Cabo de Palos are a favourite of divers while the lush Sierra de Espuña is the province’s green heart surrounded by vast orchards. There is also, however, a unique beauty to the region’s capital, the city of Murcia, which is the destination we are recommending for 2023.

“No tienes ni idea de lo que estás perdiendo,” or “You have no idea what you are missing,” is Murcia’s more recent tagline, and it has its truth too. The region’s history is not as well-known as that of some of Spain’s other cities, even with a cathedral that is an almost perfect example of Spanish Baroque architecture and an episcopal palace in a Rococo style that reflects Murcia’s long-running connections with Noto, Lecce, and other cities in southern Italy.

The city was established by the emir of Cordoba in 825, and Moorish influences and evocative references remain visible, including at the lavish 19 th -century Real Casino de Murcia, a glittering mix of architectural styles with an Arab patio, 20,000 sheets of gold leaf, and a neo-Baroque ballroom.

The 18 th -century Puente de los Peligros connects the historic centre with the Carmen neighbourhood where you’ll find another one of the city’s Baroque wonders, Carmen’s parish church, which was originally part of a Carmelite convent. The  Museo Salzillo focuses on the sculptural works of one of the most celebrated artists of the Spanish Baroque, Francisco Salzillo, whose works can be seen in many Murcian churches.  

The Arab medieval period in the city’s history lives on in the city walls and the Aljufía irrigation system, which was one of the first such systems in Europe and is still used to this day to irrigate much of Murcia’s farmland and orchards. Murcia’s status as the source of much of Spain’s produce is evident when you sit down to eat. The perfect freshness of the ingredients helps to make the cuisine here even more exquisite and helped to justify the city’s turn as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2021. Don’t leave without trying a traditional meat pie, a dish made with the famous bomba rice grown in Calasparra, stewed and salted fishes, zarangollo (a dish made with eggs, onion, and squash), and a Murcian salad (made with tomatoes, tuna, eggs, and olives).  David Moralejo

Vista de Sa Foradada desde Son Marroig

Mallorca, Balearic Islands

If you thought that the economic upheaval and travel disruptions of the pandemic meant that the Balearic Islands were going to suddenly become a bargain, it didn’t work out that way. At least there is a silver lining. As the destination perfects its approach to luxury, you’ll get a mix of exclusivity, exquisite service, and sustainability that justifies the price.

Mallorca’s most anticipated upcoming openings are from the Four Seasons and the Virgin Group, at opposite ends of the island. The iconic Formentor in Pollença (in the north of the island), where celebrities including Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier stayed, will reopen as the  Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor in 2024. The property, located on a 3,000-acre estate, aims to be the island’s most sustainable. The French interior design firm, Gilles & Boissier, who recently completed the renovation of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, were entrusted with the interiors of the Four Seasons as well.

Richard Branson’s much anticipated  Son Bunyola hotel is now taking reservations for dates after August 1, 2023. The luxury hotel is located in the estate’s 16 th -century finca, or manor house, and has 26 rooms. They join three existing villas – Sa Punta de S'Aguila, Sa Terra Rotja, and  Son Balagueret – on an 810-acre property with grape vines and almond, citrus, and olive orchards. Son Net is another luxury property that will open (spring 2023) in this stunning part of the island, from the owners of the impeccable  Finca Cortesin in Puigpunyent. Also nearby the  Belmond La Residencia , in Deià, offers polished luxury in one of the most picturesque parts of the island while the new  Kimpton Aysla Mallorca , just nine miles from Palma, is a contemporary retreat set amid landscaped grounds.

Sustainability is a focus of other recent openings on Mallorca as with  Can Ferrereta , in Santanyí, from the creators of the award-winning Sant Francesc hotel in Palma; the boutique hotel  Nivia Born , in Palma; the refurbished agroturismo property  Finca Ca'n Beneït , in the Tramuntana mountains; and  Es Racó d'Artà , which was recognised by Condé Nast Traveller in 2021 as the best health, sports, and wellness hotel.  HM Palma Blanc , in Palma, marries a contemporary style with local Mallorcan materials and power from solar panels. The adults-only  Vicenç de la Mar , in cala Sant Vicenç, was designed by architect Rafael Balaguer Prunés and carries the Design Hotels seal. Yurbann, a hotel group from Barcelona, also has an opening planned. You have to be quick to stay on top of Mallorca’s hotel scen e! Clara Laguna

Arco de la Estrella en la Plaza Mayor de Cceres.

Cáceres, Extremadura

The 2021 inauguration of the Helga de Alvear Museum, with its outstanding contemporary art collection assembled by the museum’s namesake gallerist and philanthropist, marked a turning point for the city of Cáceres in Spain’s Extremadura region, alongside the Portuguese border. The new building, and the Premio Nacional de Arquitectura that Emilio Tuñón of  Tuñón Arquitectos won for its design, announced that both the city and the broader province of Cáceres intended to compete for the attention of culturally curious travellers. 

The hospitality and culinary offerings are already waiting and continuing to improve. The 17 th -century  Hotel Hospes Palacio de Arenales & Spa is located amid olive groves but only 10 minutes by car from the city centre. There, Atrio can boast two Michelin stars while the Torre de Sande, also from the Atrio team, is located in a 15 th -century palace and is a star of Extremadura’s culinary scene which has long been an interesting region given its ties to neighbouring Portugal. Looking ahead, the Atrio team is also behind the renovation of the Casa Paredes-Saavedra, a Renaissance palace that is going to reopen as an exclusive 11-suite hotel facing the  Parador del Palacio de los Marqueses de Torreorgaz . Another palace, the Palacio de Godoy from the 16 th century, will reopen as a 72-room Hilton after having been closed for ten years.

The city of Cáceres is also a good gateway to explore the beautiful Jerte Valley and the area of Vera, part of Extremadura that is famous for its lush forest and many springs. The broader region of Extremadura has a total of six UNESCO sites that travellers will want to visit: the historic monuments of Cáceres, the archeological sites of Mérida, the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, the Monfragüe Biosphere and National Park, the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, and the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara World Geopark. While it has yet to get the UNESCO nod, the Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste has been recognised as part of Spain’s Patrimonio Nacional and deserves a place on travellers’ lists too. 

In 2022, the landlocked Extremadura boasted an impressive eight Blue Flag beaches on its lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and streams. Baños de Montemayor and Alange have been welcoming spa-goers since the Romans built baths at both hot springs.  Clara Laguna  

Un verano en Pals.

Pals, Catalonia

Writer Josep Pla once wrote that the best view in the region of Empordà is from  el Pedró , the restaurant that makes the best rice dishes in the town of Pals. Located in the historic centre, the view includes the Torre de las Hores, the Church of St. Peter, and the city walls that lead to a mirador that has now been renamed in honour of the author. “The contrasts that this site offers – the ocean, beach, and the Medes Islands; the eroded peaks of the Montgrí Massif, the deep greens of evergreen, cork, and pine forests with the geological formations of the Gavarres peaks and the flat farmland; and the botanical wonders along the banks of the Ter River – it all adds up to a rich bounty of great beauty,” the journalist wrote.  

This medieval village in the Baix Empordà region, along Catalonia’s Costa Brava, offers travellers easy access to the most charming coves along this part of the Mediterranean, such as Aigua Xelida, and beaches such as the familiar and wide Pals, Gola del Ter, l'Illa Roja, and Aiguablava. The bravest swimmers can dive into the Vies Braves, a public network of marine and open water routes offering a wilder experience of the Mediterranean. Cycling through the rice fields of the area or finding a glamping site as a base for an active vacation are other options for visitors, who will also find an ideal setting for golf, a chance to enjoy the  White Summer market and music festival, or simply visit organic vineyards.  Visitors can also learn more about Catalonia’s rich Romanesque and medieval heritage following routes through the villages of Begur, Palau Sator, Peratallada, and Monells, among others.

At the  Arkhe Hotel Boutique , a contemporary focus on health, wellness, and sustainability is paired with an intimate setting in the heart of historic Pals. Beyond exploring the region’s sites, staff can arrange everything from a “conscious nutrition” workshop to a meal amid the countryside’s wildflowers. Catalonia is known for the excellence of its produce and other ingredients as well as its celebrated chefs. Not far from Pals,  El Celler de Can Roca has three Michelin stars; some critics and fans argue it is the best restaurant in the world.  Bo.Tic , with two Michelin stars, is also among the region’s best restaurants along with Vicus and Pahissa del Mas. Make sure to have at least one dish made with the famous rice from Bassess d’en Coll before you leave. Clara Laguna

Agroturismo Mar Ccruz Valle del Arce Navarra

Valle de Arce, Navarra

South of Roncesvalles, the Valle de Arce (or Artzibar, in Basque) is one of the best-known areas of Navarra and famous for the beech forest to its east, which is one of the largest and best preserved in Europe. This destination is full of natural and historical treasures but not people – there are barely 300 living in the village of Arce and smaller hamlets nearby. The buildings feel untouched by time and it is possible to easily access ravines, forests, and unforgettable postcard views.

A plus of the Navarra Pyrenees is that they are beautiful any time of the year, whether its peaks are dusted with snow or its alpine lakes are shimmering in the summer sun. Simply take a deep breath, walk in any direction, and be surprised by charming villages like Usoz, with its sweeping views, Azparren, or Gorráiz – with its historic houses and churches. Stop and listen to the murmur of the Urrobi and Irati rivers, which form two valleys in the region. This part of the Navarra Pyrenees is a paradise for mountain and hiking lovers, who will find routes for all levels and tastes.

The area’s Romanesque heritage can be traced in historical monuments such as the hermitage of Santa María de Arce, next to the Urrobi river, and the church of San Julián in Nagore, both from the 12th century. You can admire the 15 th -century fortified palace of Ayanz and the Torre de Liberri, at least from a distance (both are located on private property and not open to public). You can get a closer look at the 13 th -century  Torre de Uriz , however, which has been converted into a stylish and intimate 12-room hotel.

 Another charming option is the  Agroturismo Mari Cruz , which combines a warm, family welcome with organic cuisine and a lot of magic. They say that amid its cabins, which provide retreats in the woods for those who want to slow down and discover another way of seeing the world, real live elves have been spotted. First, though, you need to take the time to truly listen and look. How’s that for a goal in 2023? Clara Laguna

AFAR

11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

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

<p>One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller.</p><p>Photo by Francesco Lastrucci</p><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>

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.

<h2>5. Picos de Europa National Park</h2> <p><i>Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León</i></p> <p>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<i>, </i>or look for local wildlife like the roe deer and Egyptian vultures.</p>

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.

<h2>6. Valle del Jerte</h2> <p><i>Extremadura</i></p> <p>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 <a class="Link" href="https://www.spain.info/en/discover-spain/jerte-valley-caceres/" rel="noopener">2 million cherry trees</a> 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 <i>pueblos</i><b>. </b>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.</p>

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.

<h2>7. San Sebastian</h2> <p><i>Basque Country</i></p> <p>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. <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/travel-guides/spain/san-sebastian/guide" rel="noopener">San Sebastián</a> is one of the cities found in Basque Country, where Euskara is spoken on the streets—forgo the <i>hola </i>and greet people with <i>kaixo</i>—and the steep cliff sides resemble those in Ireland or Scotland. Indulge in small plates known as <i>pintxos </i>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.</p>

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.

<h2>8. Cudillero</h2> <p><i>Asturias</i></p> <p>Many of Spain’s big cities attract tourists from around the world, so much so that its <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-spain" rel="noopener">beautiful small villages</a> 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.</p>

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.

<h2>9. Rioja wine region</h2> <p><i>La Rioja, Basque Country, and Navarre</i></p> <p>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.</p>

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.

<h2>10. Santiago de Compostela</h2> <p><i>Galicia</i></p> <p>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 <i>percebes</i> (aka barnacles).</p>

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).

<h2>11. Valencia</h2> <p><i>Valencia</i></p> <p>Despite being more than 2,000 years old, Valencia is still innovating toward a sustainable future as the <a class="Link" href="https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/urban-environment/european-green-capital-award/winning-cities/valencia-2024_en" rel="noopener">European Green Capital 2024</a> (in addition to being one of the places featured in <a class="Link" href="https://www.afar.com/magazine/where-to-go-2024" rel="noopener">AFAR’s Where to Go in 2024</a> 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 <a class="Link" href="https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/nature-in-valencia/parks-and-gardens-valencia/turia-gardens" rel="noopener">Turia Garden</a> 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.</p>

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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Termas de Outariz, a private spa on the Minho Thermal Route in Ourense, Spain

Steaming in: Galicia’s scenic – and free – thermal baths

In the northern Spanish town of Ourense, locals and visitors luxuriate in hot spring waters at a series of free public baths – or enjoy a private spa for a fiver

A bronzed, willowy veteran in black Speedos glides into the shallow, round-ish thermal pool snuggled into a grassy riverbank. It’s one of a huddle of rock pools, with trees and a modest wooden changing hut. We’re the only people here bathing beneath a cement-coloured sky that seems to inhale the steam billowing from the baths. It could be an onsen in rural Japan, except I’m about 10,000 miles from there, in north-west Spain.

The Outariz and Burga de Canedo thermal baths in Galicia are the largest of the council-run thermal areas in Ourense, with six thermal pools and two cold plunge pools, linked by a white, curved metal footbridge. Today, it’s almost empty and, most importantly, free to use, like most thermal baths here.

I didn’t know Ourense, or its thermal springs, existed until I recently stumbled across an American couple on YouTube who were doing the Minho Thermal Route – a gentle wander along the river of that name, which takes in four thermal bathing areas (three public, one private). It looked so lovely on their video that I had to follow their lead. So here I am, at the last stop on the short 4km (two-and-a-half-mile) hike, melting into thermal waters.

Outariz and Burga de Canedo thermal baths, demarcated by rocks and crossed by a white bridge

On the way back to Ourense, I snake by wise-looking trees with fluffy beards, pretty red bottlebrush, and a couple of cormorants perched on a mossy branch in the fast-flowing Minho – Galicia’s longest river. I pass a hórreo (a traditional Galician granary), a tunnel graffitied with a mural of Albert Einstein, and a family tucking into a picnic under an umbrella too small for four. All the while, the mighty Minho drowns out the hum of cars from a nearby road.

I stop to swill my mouth with thermal water at Fonte do Tinteiro – a solitary blue fountain on a wooden deck overlooking the river. Then I skirt by the pretty but waterlogged Chavasqueira thermal baths (it’s winter and the riverbanks have burst). Next, I cross the impressive Ponte Romana, the city’s ancient Roman bridge, before arriving at Ourense’s old town.

round pools on riverbank

Founded as a Roman spa town in Galicia’s only landlocked province (also Ourense), it looks like all the great Spanish cities – timeworn squares, twisting cobbled streets and countless traditional tapas restaurants – only without the hordes of international tourists.

One of the delicacies here – served, appropriately, at Bar Orellas – is oreja , or pigs’ ears, which look and taste exactly how you would expect. The culinary scene, however, isn’t limited to meaty classics like this. There are also a handful of Michelin-acknowledged restaurants with excellent, innovative menus, such as Nova , Ceibe and Pacífico . Still, Ourense’s main draw is its thermal springs.

Ponte Romana, the Roman bridge over the Minho River, Ourense

“Ourense is the thermal capital of Galicia. Not many people realise, but we have about 70 thermal springs pumping an estimated three million litres of thermal water daily,” Karlos Sanmartín, a local tour guide, tells me over coffee at La Zapatería del Abuelo , a cute church-like shoe shop turned cafe in the city’s old town.

Locals, in-the-know expats and a small swell of tourists bathe in Ourense’s hot springs year-round, keen to take advantage of the supposed therapeutic benefits – from easing arthritic pain and soothing skin conditions to aiding circulation and respiratory issues. It’s not as popular as Hungary or Iceland but thermal tourism here isn’t new.

Roman soldiers came almost 2,000 years ago to use the city’s mineral-rich waters as a form of post-battle convalescence. “They used the hot springs as a place of rest, healing, leisure and relaxation, but also as a place of worship,” Karlos says.

The Romans named Ourense “Aquis Aurienses” or “the city of golden waters” after finding gold nuggets in the river that washed down from a nearby quarry.

As Burgas hot springs in the city centre.

Karlos tells me the Romans would discuss their daily affairs while bathing together at As Burgas – one of Ourense’s most famous thermal areas, and the only thermal pool in the town centre. Remains of a Roman bathhouse and an altar were found here, leading experts to believe it was once a focal point for pilgrims. Today As Burgas has an unassuming shallow, lido-like pool (currently under renovation and due to open later in 2024), a small Moorish-looking plaza and a rustic fountain pumping hot spring water.

Before saying our goodbyes, Karlos says I must try the baths at night, his favourite time to visit.

I spend the afternoon strolling around Os Viños, a warren of tapas bars, restaurants and watering holes in the old town. It’s packed with weathered gothic, baroque and neoclassical buildings and smells like cigarettes and freshly fallen rain. I glide through the medieval-looking Plaza Mayor, home to the Bishop’s Palace and City Hall, and lunch on excellent risotto at Tapa Negra – a great spot for people watching.

Plaza Mayor de Ourense.

Later, I squeeze into Demamáluis , a delicatessen on a corner with room for 12 people, where I eat a chunky slice of tortilla and enjoy a glass of local vino for less than £7. For dessert, I enjoy cheesecake and more local red wine at O Frade – a long, narrow tapas bar with framed brewery logos on the walls and a leg of jámon dangling over the counter.

During drier months, visitors to the region take vineyard tours at Ribeira Sacra – a gorgeous Lord of the Rings valley nearby. The bartender says Ourense is Galicia’s most prominent wine region, home to four of its five denominacións de orixe (Ribeira Sacra, Ribeiro, Valdeorras and Monterrei). But the conversation comes back to the hot springs.

Vineyards in Ribeira Sacra, Galicia, with a river in the distance

“You can taste the minerals,” he says, pushing the glass of wine towards me. He’s right, but the acidity is neutralised by the thick slab of Galician cheesecake I’m devouring at breakneck speed.

With my trip drawing to a close, I take a cab to Termas de Outariz for one final dip – this time under the moonlight. The curved, wooden Japanese-style construction is the only private thermal resort on the Minho thermal route. Unlike the public areas, which close at 8pm, it’s open until 11pm. It costs just over a fiver and has 11 outdoor and three indoor thermal baths of varying temperatures.

I pause to take in the surroundings from the terrace, which overlooks a scattering of rocky, thermal baths, dense woodland and the thundering Minho River. Then, as dusk descends, I tiptoe from Celtic-inspired rock pools and waterfalls to cavernous granite huts and Japanese pools made from wood and stone. Soon, it’s so dark I can barely see my hand in front of my face. Occasionally, a soft, bluish glow from the baths’ uplights reveals a solitary, blissful face that fades in and out of focus. Elsewhere, friends perched on rocks talk in hushed tones and couples steal intimate moments in dark corners. As closing time approaches, I watch as steam rises and melts into a black sky sprinkled with stars that seem to dance to the trickling sound of water. I whisper a little thanks to Karlos. He was right: moonlit bathing is magical.

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How to see Monty Don’s Spanish gardens (and where to stay)

Inspired by monty’s latest show, we selected the country’s most striking green spaces.

Monty Don visited Palmeral de Elche

C racking job that Monty Don has got. He’s made a career out of cutting, pruning, planting and weeding and can now be seen on BBC2 and iPlayer enjoying a grand tour of the gardens of Spain. Their roots lie deep in extinct caliphates and the attempts of the 8th-century Muslim conquerors to create not just earthly imitations of paradise but also a sustainable agronomy. Irrigation was key, and the Moors arrived as experts in that field: the hypnotic tinkle of a fountain in an Andalusian garden is often the consequence of an extraordinary system of ancient acequias , using gravity to bring water from miles away.

Sadly, not all the gardens Don sees are open to the public, but, having visited all of those that are, I’ve picked out the best in the show, adding how to get there and places to stay nearby that either have their own plots of earthly paradise or are somehow connected to the featured gardens. If you can only visit one, though, make it Pazo de Oca in Galicia.

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1. Free-view plants in Madrid

The Real Jardin Botanico has more than 5,500 species

Although many of Don’s gardens aren’t open to the public, you can visit two in Madrid free of charge. The first is Patrick Blanc’s CaixaForum Vertical Garden, just off the Paseo del Prado (caixaforum.es). It’s more spectacular than CaixaBank’s interior garden featured in the show and is just across the road from the gorgeous Real Jardin Botanico, which has more than 5,500 species, including medicinal plants, and tropical specimens in greenhouses. April, May and June are the most colourful months and entry is free on Tuesday mornings — otherwise £3 (rjb.csic.es). Don had a look at the jungle at the back of Atocha Station (free), and so should you if you’re waiting for a train. But he missed the gardens at the Museo Sorolla — one modelled on La Troya garden in the Alcazar of Seville and another on the Generalife in Granada (£2; cultura.gob.es) — and the neoclassical Jardines de Sabatini, which are just as grand but less frequented than El Retiro Park (free; madrid.es). Stay at the Palacio de los Duques Gran Melia, ten minutes from the Jardines de Sabatini and with its own classical courtyard garden and a rooftop pool. Details Room-only doubles from £392 (melia.com). Fly or take the train to Madrid

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2. imperial parterres at el escorial.

El Escorial was built by Philip II

An hour northwest of Madrid in the Sierra de Guadarrama stands El Escorial: palace, monastery and the biggest Renaissance building in the world. Built by Philip II — aka Philip the Prudent and King of England by dint of his marriage to Mary I — the palace and monastery have 4,000 rooms, 15 miles of corridors and 88 fountains, plus an art collection including works by El Greco, Ribera, Tiziano and Velázquez. The surrounding parterres, now planted with boxwood, served as experimental beds for plants such as tomatoes and vanilla imported from the Spanish empire, and there can be few gardens anywhere that evoke such a sense of power and control (£12; patrimonionacional.es). Hotel Florida sits on a chestnut-shaded street so close to El Escorial that, if you book one of the simple rooms at the front of the property, you can almost look through the palace windows. From Madrid, the best option is the 664 bus, which takes 55 minutes from the Moncloa interchange (£7.20 return; madrid.avanzagrupo.com). Details B&B doubles from £68 (hflorida.com). Fly or take the train to Madrid

3. Moorish pools in Toledo

Palacio de Galiana is home to a re-creation of the original Islamic gardens

The Palacio de Galiana lies on the south bank of the Tagus outside the walls of Toledo: the countryside leisure palace of the 11th-century King Al Ma’mun. Over the next nine centuries it was destroyed in the reconquista , rebuilt as a convent, rebranded as the love nest of the 8th-century Princess Galiana and Charlemagne (it really wasn’t), then allowed to crumble back into the dust of La Mancha. Resurrected again, it’s now home to an exquisite and wonderfully peaceful re-creation — with Italianate touches — of the original Islamic gardens, complete with reflecting pool and symmetrical beds that are somehow enhanced by the random spires of Tuscan-style cypresses (£7; palaciodegaliana.es). Take the 40-minute train from Madrid’s Atocha station to Toledo (from £23 return; renfe.com) and it’s then a 15-minute walk to the Palacio de Galiana. Like the Palacio, but in the heart of Toledo, the Medina Mudejar is an ancient property snatched from dereliction and carefully restored. It has five riad-style rooms, plus Arab baths in the vaulted basement. Details Room-only doubles from £77 (hotelmedinamudejartoledo.com). Fly or take the train to Madrid

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4. Medieval calm near Barcelona

The Monestir de Pedralbes was built in 1327

The four horsemen of the tourism apocalypse — cheap flights, cruises, Airbnb and Instagram — have not been kind to Barcelona. They’ve brought with them fast food, Segways, imported souvenirs, stags, hens and more but you’ll see none of the above in the stillness of the gardens of the Monestir de Pedralbes. Built in 1327 in what was then countryside to the north of the city, the garden is a re-creation of the medieval herbarium, within a quadrangle of three-tiered cloisters. It’s not huge, but it’s the most tranquil spot in Barcelona (£4, or free after 3pm on Sundays; monestirpedralbes.barcelona). Take the S1 or S2 train from Plaça de Catalunya to Sarria, then the L12 to Reina Elisenda, from where it’s a ten-minute walk to the gardens (£4.50 return; fgc.cat). In Barcelona, three hotels with gardens come to mind: the Petit Palace Boqueria Garden in Gotica (B&B doubles from £148; petitpalaceboqueriagarden.com); the Alma just off the Passeig de Gracia, where the owner used a crane to lift his trees over the roofs of the block (B&B doubles from £346; almahotels.com); and, next block up, past Casa Mila, the H10 Casa Mimosa, which wins, because its garden has a pool. Details B&B doubles from £263 (h10hotels.com). Fly or take the train to Barcelona

• Best places to visit in Spain

5. Palm groves near Alicante

The Unesco-listed Palmeral de Elche

Build a city and an agricultural economy in a location that receives less than 300mm of rain per year? Easy, said the Moors who built Elche, inland from Alicante (it’s now a 30-minute train journey from the city, from £6.50 return; renfe.com). Find a river, then abstract water via an arterial canal, dig 20 branches, use gates to control the flow and build everything so that it will still be functioning 900 years later. There are more than 45,000 date palms in the Unesco-listed Palmeral de Elche, planted in rectangles to shade the vegetable gardens in the middle, their irrigation controlled by a system that apportions water to each plot on a 37-day rota. It’s an ingenious urban oasis that will astonish any gardener, and it’s only a 30-minute train journey from Alicante’s beaches. The hotel Huerto del Cura — or Priest’s Garden — offers the opportunity to stay in the Palmeral, in subtropical gardens, with a spa, a fab restaurant and cocktails by the pool. Details B&B doubles from £85 (hotelhuertodelcura.com). Fly to Alicante

6. Cedar and bougainvillea in Mallorca

Alfabia’s pergola has 24 water jets

Laid out in the 12th century by the nobleman Ben Abet, modified and expanded over the following centuries, Alfabia is arguably Spain’s most beautiful and harmonious garden. Sheltered by the mountains from the Tramuntana winds and watered by a permanent spring, this suntrap allows the alpine (cedar and fir) to live alongside the subtropical (bougainvillea and geranium) and is far more of an earthly paradise than, say, the Generalife in Granada. Yet it’s not without artifice: the 72-column pergola has 24 water jets that you can operate if you can find the button (£8; jardinesdealfabia.com). The Tren de Soller — the slow yet thrilling 17-mile journey through orange and almond groves along a narrow-gauge line between Palma and Soller — stops at the gardens (£24 return; trendesoller.com), or it’s a half-hour drive from Palma. Stay at the Finca Hotel Ca’s Sant, an 18th-century manor house turned 13-room boutique hotel with two pools in an orchard of 700 orange and lemon trees on the edge of Soller. Details B&B doubles from £170 (cas-sant.com). Fly to Palma

7. Jasmine and orange trees in Seville

Palacio de las Duenas is a celebration of the Andalusian horticultural tradition

The late Duchess of Alba — who, they said, could walk across Spain without setting foot outside her various estates — was a woman of exquisite taste and zero restraint, so it follows that the gardens of the Palacio de las Duenas — her place in Seville — should be an unashamedly over-the-top celebration of the Andalusian horticultural tradition. Patios, gardens and orchards occupy just under two fragrant acres here, with more than 7,000 specimens from 117 species, including jasmine, vines, bignonias, plumbagos, hibiscus and a froth of gitanillas, or geraniums (£10; lasduenas.es). Compare and contrast with the heavenly Mudejar gardens of the Real Alcazar — the Islamic idyll remodelled for Christian tastes in a European city that’s closer to Marrakesh than Rome. The Elvira Plaza is a traditional hotel overlooking the orange trees in the Plaza de Doña Elvira with views of the Giralda from the roof terrace. Details B&B doubles from £117 (hotelelviraplaza.com). Fly or take the train to Seville

8. Symbolism and statuary in Galicia

The Pazo de Oca garden was created by Andrés Gayoso

The Pazo de Oca — a country estate half an hour southeast of the pilgrim city of Santiago de Compostela — is often referred to as “the Galician Versailles”. That’s a lazy description of an 18th-century garden so overplanted with symbolism that the experts still don’t know exactly what its creator, Andrés Gayoso, seigneur of Oca, is telling us. The allegory is centred on the two lakes, surrounded by 300-year-old box hedges and fed by the River Boo. One represents the virtues and the other, the vanities. Each contains a stone ship — one presumed to be a fishing boat, the other a warship. There’s a man with a snake, a labyrinth and more weathered stone monsters than a gothic roof. What does it all mean? Guessing is half the fun (£9; fundacionmedinaceli.org). The estate is a 15-minute walk south of Balboa (bus 817 from El Corte Ingles in Santiago, £2.50 return; bus.gal). Stay in the city: just up the street from the art museum at the Mosteiro de San Martiño Pinario, past a very good wine shop called Marida y Venceras (“marry and you will win”) stands the two-star Costa Vella. It is exactly the hotel you’re looking for here, with views of the cathedral and a gorgeous courtyard garden. Details Room-only doubles from £77 (costavella.com). Fly to Santiago

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Spain tourist backlash: Britons 'will take money elsewhere' as Spain proposes new rules on UK tourists

Spain beach / people drinking outside in Madrid

Nightlife in Spain could be set to change

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray

Published: 12/03/2024

A new initiative that could see Spanish bars and restaurants close early has been hit by backlash, with concerns tourists will travel elsewhere on holiday

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Many Britons go on holiday to Spain to enjoy beautiful beaches, sunny weather and exciting nightlife, but new rules could change how this is done.

Plans to close bars and restaurants early across the country have been proposed - and tourists aren't happy with some even threatening to "boycott" Spain.

Minister of employment and social economy Yolanda Díaz said the current opening hours in the hospitality industry are "not reasonable" .

“A country that has its restaurants open at one in the morning is not reasonable. It is crazy to try to continue extending hours until I don’t know what time," he told Spain's Congress last week.

The proposals could be rolled out to all parts of Spain

This has been met with backlash, however, and the mayor of Maria de la Salut and the president of the Felib federation of town halls Jaume Ferriol commented on the changes.

He said it is a matter for individual town halls and the rules should not be implemented in all parts of the country without consideration.

He explained: "We, the town halls, are the ones who best know the needs of the restaurant sector and the consequences that these may have for residents, mainly due to the issue of noise. We meet with both parties and try to satisfy them.

"The Balearic Islands are not the same as, for example, Castile and León. Each region has its type of economy and its climate."

The Balearic Islands such as Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca are popular holiday hotspots and depend on tourism from countries such as the UK.

Closing bars and restaurants early could deter tourists from visiting, Ferriol suggested. GB News readers agreed and commented on the proposals.

One wrote on X: "A number of good reasons to remove Spain from one's list of possible holiday destinations. I haven't been to Spain for 20 years and don't miss it in the slightest."

Another added: "There are new regulations every day. This is an awful way to treat tourists in their country. Boycotting Spain."

One more reader shared their shock at the proposed new rules stating they are "crazy". The president of the Community of Madrid Isabel Diaz Ayuso also commented on the proposal.

He said on X: “Spain has the best nightlife in the world, with streets full of life and freedom. And they also provide jobs.

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The proposals have faced backlash and some Britons said they will 'boycott' Spain

“They want us Puritans, materialists, socialists, without soul, without light and without restaurants because they feel like it. Bored and at home.”

The rules have been suggested to help reduce noise, stop anti-social behaviour and improve the working hours of staff in the hospitality industry.

Díaz suggested it would be part of broader changes that could be brought in across Spain, so British tourists are warned to look out for further updates.

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Influencer gang raped on round-the-world trip speaks about ordeal

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Three men in India have appeared in court after being accused of gang-raping a travel vlogger on a round-the-world trip with her husband.

Police are also searching for four other suspects believed to have been involved in the violent assault.

Victim Fernanda, 28, and her husband Vicente, 45, were attempting to visit every country in the world on motorbikes, and were documenting the journey to their 300,000 followers on social media .

The couple, from Spain , were making their way to Nepal from India when they stopped and made a makeshift camp for the night in the Dumka district in India’s Jharkhand.

Couple 'beaten and gangraped' by seven men in India while motorcycling across the world Fernanda, the 28-year-old Hispanic-Brazilian woman who has been victim of brutal gang rape in India, he explained together with his partner Vicente, a 45-year-old Valencian, how the events took place in the early hours of Friday morning.

However, shortly after settling down for the evening, they were spotted by a group of men who attacked Vicente and sexually assaulted Fernanda.

In a heartbreaking video posted after the attack, Vicente said his mouth had been ‘destroyed’ by the assailants, who also robbed the pair and used a helmet and a stone to beat him.

Fernanda, who appeared in the video with visible bruises on her face, said despite the robbery it was clear ‘their only intention was to rape her’.

She later told Spanish media: ‘They raped me, they took turns while some watched and they stayed like that for about two hours.’

Couple 'beaten and gangraped' by seven men in India while motorcycling across the world Fernanda, the 28-year-old Hispanic-Brazilian woman who has been victim of brutal gang rape in India, he explained together with his partner Vicente, a 45-year-old Valencian, how the events took place in the early hours of Friday morning.

The suspects are thought to be between 20-30 years old and are accused of assaulting Fernanda in shifts.

On Saturday, Police Superintendent Mr. Kherwar revealed that one of the apprehended individuals had provided the names of other people allegedly involved. A forensic science laboratory is assisting them with the case, he added.

According to the Telegraph, a judge awarded the couple around £9,500 compensation for the assault.

Anjaneyulu Dodde, deputy commissioner of Dumku, said: ‘We have given him a compensation of one million rupees. We are conducting a thorough investigation and will try to ensure a speedy trial and conviction.’

epa11198614 Indian police and forensic team investigate and collect samples at the site where a Spanish tourist was gangraped, near Kurmahaat, Dumka, Jharkhand state, India, 04 March 2024. The Jharkhand Police said three persons arrested in connection with the gang-rape of a Spanish tourist and beating her husband in Dumka district were sent to judicial custody by a court. The couple was attacked while asleep in the tent they had pitched to spend the night on 01 March at a desolate area of Kunji village, some 300 km or an eight-hour drive from Ranchi, the capital of the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand. EPA/Rajesh Kumar

The attack has sparked outrage in India, prompting many women to share their experiences of sexual violence on social media, as well as their frustrations over how it is dealt with.

The couple, known as @vueltaalmundoenmoto on Instagram, have been on a mission to travel across the globe for the past five years. Their bio states they have covered 170,000 km together, visiting 66 countries. 

They are now planning to return to Spain, where they live, before resuming their trip at a later date.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Strictly stars Anton and Giovanni's new travel series confirms release date

They're on a Spanish jaunt this time.

preview for Anton du Beke opens up about his hair transplant

Anton and Giovanni's Adventures in Spain premieres on Monday, March 18 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 9pm.

In an Instagram teaser trailer, we see the two ballroom pals cruising through the countryside with the radio blasting, kayaking rather badly, dancing in the streets and enjoying a ride on a hot-air balloon.

Related: Strictly 's Anton Du Beke unveils hair transplant as he aims to look like Bobby Brazier

Having discovered that Du Beke's mother is Spanish, Pernice tells the camera: "Going back and seeing the roots of my best friend, it's gonna be lovely!"

Meanwhile, the Strictly judge said: "It is such a treat for me to be able to take my dear friend Giovanni to a country that I hold so close to my heart.

"What a joy it is to be able to share this marvellously jovial jaunt with both Gio and all the wonderful viewers watching at home. Magnifico!"

anton du beke, giovanni pernice, anton and giovanni's adventures in spain

Related: Strictly judge Anton Du Beke reveals he was stabbed by his father as a child

Pernice added: "I am so excited to be heading out for more adventures with Anton on this epic road trip across Spain. I just hope we manage to avoid being stopped by the police this time!"

Their first collaboration was Anton and Giovanni's Adventures in Sicily .

Anton and Giovanni's Adventures in Spain airs March 18 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Strictly Come Dancing will return later this year on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Tickets for Strictly 's 2024 live arena tour are available now .

Interested in talking about Strictly Come Dancing ? Visit our dedicated sub-forum

March 2024 gift ideas and deals

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Headshot of Dan Seddon

Reporter, Digital Spy 

Dan is a freelance entertainment journalist. Beginning his writing career in 2014, Dan's work first graced the pages of cult publications Starburst magazine and Little White Lies before moving onto Total Film, Digital Spy , NME and Yahoo Entertainment . 

In the film and TV universe, he kneels at the altar of Jim Carrey, Daniel Plainview, Mike Ehrmantraut and Paulie Walnuts.

.css-15yqwdi:before{top:0;width:100%;height:0.25rem;content:'';position:absolute;background-image:linear-gradient(to right,#51B3E0,#51B3E0 2.5rem,#E5ADAE 2.5rem,#E5ADAE 5rem,#E5E54F 5rem,#E5E54F 7.5rem,black 7.5rem,black);} Strictly Come Dancing

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How to get around in Spain by train, plane, bus or boat

Jun 26, 2023 • 5 min read

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The train is a quick and efficient way to travel around in Spain © F.J. Jimenez / Getty Images

Criss-crossing destinations around Spain , whether by land, air or sea, is easy and convenient due to Spain’s efficient multi-modal public transport infrastructure, which has also been upgraded significantly over recent years.

Spain also gets high marks for universally accessible travel . Visitors with reduced mobility can move around fairly easily compared to other European countries. The country’s public transport infrastructure, such as trains, buses and terminals, has been designed for accessibility, offering specially designated spaces and adapted features for people with disabilities and anyone with mobility challenges, young and old alike. 

 Rocafort subway station. The Barcelona Metro is an extensive network of electrified railwa

Get around with ease on Spain's train network

RENFE is Spain’s national railway company that runs about 5000 trains each day across the country. The best and fastest way to travel long distances in Spain is by taking the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) , which uses Madrid as its principal terminal and travels to many of the country’s principal cities. 

AVE trains are comfortable, efficient and incredibly fast. Traveling up to 310km (192.6 miles) per hour, it connects Madrid to Barcelona — over 600 kilometers away — in a mere 2.5 hours. 

The RENFE Alvia trains, which connect the northern cities and regions to Madrid, are also high-speed trains with stops along the way. The RENFE Avant mid-distance high-speed trains or the Media Distancia (mid-distance) trains are the most time-savvy option for nearer day-trip destinations.

The most recent addition to RENFE’s fleet are the high-speed, low-cost Avlo trains with tickets. This is the best option for passengers with reduced mobility — all entrances to their carriages are at platform level and feature H seats for travelers in wheelchairs, as well as adapted toilets for people with disabilities. 

Titsa buses at the Central Bus Station of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The bus is the best if you're on a budget

For budget-conscious travelers, the bus is the best way to move around Spain if you don’t mind the longer travel times. It’s also the preferred way for locals to get around, given its convenience, economical ticket prices and connections to smaller towns where trains do not pass. 

There are several bus service providers in every Spanish city, and many of these fleets offer quite a comfortable ride with reclining seats and wifi on board to make traveling over long distances a smooth and pleasant experience.

While tickets can be directly purchased from the bus driver, it is best to reserve and buy them in advance. Keep in mind that the most popular routes and times tend to get full pretty quickly.

Tip for finding a bus service To find out which bus services are in operation at your departure point, Movelia.es provides the most comprehensive information on available national bus routes (and even international ones), schedules and purchasing, and has multiple language options. 

Planes are best for Spain's outlying islands

Flying is the quickest way to travel around Spain, and the best option to get to its outlying archipelagos — and hotspot tourist destinations, the Balearic Islands east of the peninsula or the Canary Islands in the Atlantic. Spain has regular domestic flights operating across its nearly 60 airports; the principal ones are Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and Barcelona’s El Prat Airport. 

Iberia Airlines is Spain’s national carrier that regularly offers reasonably priced tickets if you book in advance. Its low-cost brand Vueling , which regularly codeshares with Iberia, also offers several domestic daily flight options with affordable fares.

Boats at Lekeitio village and port in Basque Country, Spain

Take the slow route – travel around Spain by boat

Many of Spain’s top cities and islands are also important cruise ports, including Barcelona, Cádiz, Valencia, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, and Las Palmas (Canary Islands). If time is not an issue, traveling by boat or ferry across from the Peninsula across the Mediterranean or Atlantic waters is a pleasant, albeit drawn-out, travel experience. This is also the best option if you wish to take your car, motorbike or bicycle on board.

Spain’s main shipping lines, Baleària and Trasmediterránea , offer regular trips from main cities in the peninsula as well as hourly connections in the Balearic Islands (between Ibiza, Mallorca, Formentera and Menorca) and the eight main islands of the Canaries. Passengers have the option to book seats or cabins with beds.

Go green with Spain's carpooling services

Car-sharing services are a popular and environmentally-friendly mode of transport for getting around Spain’s cities or regional towns. BlaBla Car is the most popular service that allows you to book car-share rides to several points around Spain. If you’re in the driver’s seat and seeking some company (or wish to share the gas bill), you can also publish your own rides, pick-up points and prices on the BlaBla Car website.

Not only is this a cost-effective way to travel long distances , but it’s also a great way to meet locals (and practice your Spanish!).

Granada City Tour with the shuttle bus along the Carrera del Darro in the Albayzin quarter

Accessible transport options in Spain

People with reduced mobility will find Spain a highly accessible and inclusive travel destination. All Spanish airports provide passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility free assistance services, from the moment you land to security and border controls and luggage collection. These services can be requested in the AENA (Spain’s state-owned airport operator). 

If you are traveling by train, RENFE’s Atendo is a free service that passengers can request assistance in transiting between stations, boarding and disembarking train carriages. 

In Spain’s main cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona , terminals and stations are largely designed to give passengers full autonomy. Madrid’s Metro , for example, has installed universal accessibility features in all its stations, with over half of all stations fully accessible with lifts and ramps for wheelchair access. In addition, step edges are reinforced, and elevator signs and handrails have Braille markings.

Barcelona’s entire metro (except for two out of a total of 165 stations) is accessible and has advanced features such as directional devices for blind people and luminous door devices on trains. Local city buses have also been adapted for accessible travel, with tilts, ramps, and reserved spaces for wheelchair users and baby carriages, as well as Braille-embossed stop buttons. 

This article was first published August 2021 and updated June 2023

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    Day 5: Granada. Next on our itinerary is a short stop in another Andalusian gem, Granada. Though you could spend several days discovering all the sights of Granada, there's really only enough time on this trip for a single day here. Start your day in the city center at Granada Cathedral.

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    Marbella is on your podium of the Best Places to Visit in Spain and on the first step of the Most Exclusive Destinations in Europe. Marbella's warm microclimate and year-round sunshine make it an outdoor sports paradise. The destination is a magnet for visiting golfers as it boasts the highest density of golf courses in Spain.Within the municipality, there are 14 golf courses, comprising ...

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    Let's discover what to do in Spain in 10 days or less… Madrid. 3 Days. Often overshadowed by Barcelona's touristic pull, Madrid doesn't appear as the first destination on a Spain travel plan. It's a shame. When exploring Spain for the first time, there's hardly a better place to start than with its capital and cultural heartland.

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    Among the award-winning properties are the Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden , Baobab Suites , The Ritz-Carlton Abama , H10 Atlantic Sunset , Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora, and Bahía del Duque. On the island's north coast, BeTenerife offers an excellent selection of private villas for two or four guests.

  21. 8 of the best places to visit in Spain in 2024

    3. San Sebastián. Best city for gourmet experiences. This alluring Basque coastal city in northern Spain is stunning, characterized by its belle epoque architecture, white-sand beaches that stretch for kilometers, and blue waters of the Bay of Biscay. On a clear day, stroll along the boulevard of La Concha beach to get a feel for the locals' sea-loving culture.

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    Euronews Travel spoke to Timon van Basten, a tour guide in Spain and the founder of Travel Spain 24. Tour guide Timon pictured in his office Timon van Basten.

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    2. Madrid. Madrid. 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 ...

  24. Steaming in: Galicia's scenic

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    • Spain travel guide • 14 of the best hotels in Spain for under £150. ... could walk across Spain without setting foot outside her various estates — was a woman of exquisite taste and zero ...

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  27. 20 of the best things to do in Spain

    14. Don't miss the Canary Islands. Around 1000km (620 miles) southwest of mainland Spain, the eight sunbathed Canaries pack in everything from Atlantic volcanic beaches and eerily beautiful pine forests to hikes up the country's tallest peak, 3715m-high (12,100ft) Teide.

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    The couple, from Spain, ... The couple, known as @vueltaalmundoenmoto on Instagram, have been on a mission to travel across the globe for the past five years. Their bio states they have covered ...

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  30. How to get around in Spain

    The best and fastest way to travel long distances in Spain is by taking the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), which uses Madrid as its principal terminal and travels to many of the country's principal cities. AVE trains are comfortable, efficient and incredibly fast. Traveling up to 310km (192.6 miles) per hour, it connects Madrid to Barcelona ...