best places to visit in spain for young adults

The Top 19 Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Spain for young adults, you have come to the right place to explore. Spain has a plethora of fantastic tourist sites for people of all ages and tastes, where entertainment and enjoyment are the rules of the day, as are the breathtaking and unforgettable landscapes that surround them, wonderful golf holidays in Spain.

Few nations in the world can tick all the traveler boxes with such a broad selection of attractions as Spain, with its sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches , World Heritage cities, outstanding gastronomy, and multi-faceted culture. It is very special.

One region can have an entirely different character from the next due to Spain’s long and illustrious history of Catholic monarchy, Muslim caliphates, and New World conquistadors. Here is the list of the best Spanish vacation spots for young adults that will be covered in this post.

Table of Contents

Barcelona, located on Spain’s breathtaking Catalonian coast, is a must-see for everyone doing their first-ever backpacking trip through Europe .

The old city core is filled with some of the most incredible artwork, museums, and architectural wonders in the entire world. Specifically, the creations of local architect Antoni Gaudi, who constructed Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia.

Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife in addition to the top Spain attractions. There is a sizable club scene with practically infinite possibilities that can entice all different kinds of partygoers.

In conclusion, if you only have time for one Spanish city, choose Barcelona. With this list of the top things to do in Barcelona, start your planning right away.

Now let’s go on to Central Spain and talk about Madrid. The largest metropolis and capital of Spain is home to several upscale shopping districts and has a more than 2,000-year history.

It’s the largest city in terms of population, the capital of the nation, and one of the top destinations for travelers in Europe. Madrid is therefore another essential stop on your list of Spain destinations.

 In Madrid, there are many lovely places to see and exciting activities to do. Don’t skip exploring Plaza Mayor and San Miguel Market.

When visiting Madrid, you don’t even need to have a destination because the city is so beautiful. Even just getting to know the local areas, eateries, and exciting nightlife is an adventure.

Valencia is one of the most well-known cities in Spain, featuring a tonne of shopping, dining, and art attractions. Spain is home to some delectable cuisine, but if you’re craving a steamy bowl of paella, you must travel to Valencia, the city where it was first made.

About 3.5 hours south of Barcelona, in eastern Spain, is the city of Valencia. making it simple to incorporate two amazing places into a single trip to Spain.

There are several locations to buy clothes in Valencia (or ten). like Carrer de Colón, a posh shopping district. Then stop into Valencia’s Central Market for a snack.

This relaxed Spanish village offers hiking trails and rock climbing areas as well as breathtaking views. The southern Spanish city of Ronda is home to some of Spain’s most magnificent natural scenery. There are ten or more different large miradors.

The enormous Puente Nuevo bridge is Ronda’s main draw, but there are also a surprising number of other things to do in this tiny city. Visit Alameda del Tajo to get a taste of the local scenery. At the Royal Cavalry’s Bullring, discover a local custom. Visit the historical bathhouse at Yacimiento.

Alternatively, you may just relax and do nothing. It’s a laid-back alpine hamlet with an abundance of charm and a generally cozy atmosphere that’s ideal for couples. Ronda is lovely even if all you do is take in the scenery and sample the regional cuisine.

The southern coastal city of Cadiz is home to some of Spain’s top beaches and thought-provoking historical landmarks. There are several historical sites to explore in Cadiz, including the Yacimiento Arqueológico Gadir and the Cadiz Museum.

The city boasts a variety of beaches to select from and a tonne of vistas to get a better sense of the place, in addition to local history.

If you want a city in Andalusia with all the charm of southern Spain but want something a little quieter than Seville, Cadiz is ideal. As an alternative, it is a simple train ride away and makes for a great day excursion.

One of the best destinations in Spain for those seeking solitude is Frigiliana. When you want to go on vacation and have it feel like a different reality.

The white village of Frigiliana, which is only 15 minutes outside of Nerja and close to the southern shore, has a pristine mountain town feel.

Frigiliana doesn’t have as many renowned historical sites or sizable museums as some of the larger cities. You won’t require them, though. While exploring the little alleys, artisanal stores, and view-centric eateries, the hours can fly by.

The gorgeous coastal city of Nerja is close to Frigiliana. Nerja is surrounded by a lot of breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its breathtaking beaches , similar to Playa Burriana. Although you could kayaking in the sea or lie on Nerja’s beaches all day, there are other things to do.

Many walks will take you through untouched nature, such as Rio Chillar and the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo. After exploring Nerja’s natural wonders, you can replenish your energy with food or a drink at one of the city’s many outstanding restaurants.

Home to one of Spain’s most impressive basilicas, this Basque country city is a hub for Roman ruins. Northeastern Spain’s capital city of Aragon, Zaragoza, is awash in Roman-era landmarks. You can truly sense the city’s rich history in the Old Town.

Adorable cafes and hip restaurants fill the city’s picturesque streets. Or, if a busy market is more your style, visit Zaragoza’s spectacular Central Market.

Let’s travel to Bilbao in Northern Spain, one of the best summer beach resorts in this part of the country. There are many beaches close to Bilbao, but Arrigunaga Beach is my favorite. The Guggenheim Museum, one of the most popular attractions in the country, is also located in Bilbao.

You will be impressed even only by the Guggenheim Museum’s exterior. You can find a wide variety of modern art within.

Ibiza is a traveler’s tiny piece of heaven while looking for the best nightlife on earth. It’s the ideal location for partygoers and one of the best places to visit in spain for young adults.

Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands, is home to some of Europe’s most exciting clubs, pubs, and events and is significant. June is the ideal month to travel to Spain to experience all of these events.

Ibiza, nevertheless, offers much more than just wild nightlife. The island is home to some of Spain’s top beaches, including Cala Saladeta and Cala Bassa.

Along with historical landmarks like the Ibiza Castle and breathtaking natural treasures like Cova de Can Marçà.

One of the oldest cities in the Andalusia region is Granada, which is situated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Casa de los Tiros and Cuarto Real are two locations in Granada’s Jewish Quarter, commonly known as The Realejo, where you may learn more about this long past.

An excursion to Granada is highly recommended for everyone who wishes to learn more about the history of this part of Spain. Not to mention how stunning the city itself is.

One of the less well-known places in Spain is Cómpeta, which is famed for its winding alleyways. The magnificent Sierra Almijara mountain range is directly surrounding it. It is one of my favorite locations, though, for a short day trip.

Cómpeta is a genuinely modest village with a dearth of tourist hotspots. resulting in a calmer, more leisurely time outside on the Spanish mountainside. If you want to base yourself while touring all the adjacent white towns in Spain, here is the spot to do it.

León is perfectly located along the Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. The city offers tourists some breathtaking Spanish architecture.

The Santa Maria de Leon Cathedral is the town’s most noteworthy landmark. However, the city is home to several notable churches.

Therefore, León will be a blast for tourists who wish to experience this facet of Spanish culture. In addition, the city has many bustling plazas where you may unwind after exploring the streets.

You’ll discover that Valladolid is another excellent place to study Spain’s extensive history. Spain is a nation with a rich past. For example, Valladolid is very small but powerful.

There are numerous activities available, ranging from museums and plazas to riverfront beaches and well-kept parks, and it is only two hours north of Madrid. To experience typical Spanish attractions without the crowds of Spain’s major cities, Valladolid is a wonderful alternative.

Bolonia is a stunning location in Spain. But this is more of a leisurely location. Do not anticipate late-night celebrations or a never-ending list of attractions. If you’re eager for a summer holiday, your first thought may be to travel to one of Spain’s most well-known beach resort areas.

However, I’d advise choosing one of the more undiscovered small beach villages. Bolonia, specifically, is a region on the Atlantic Ocean in Tarifa.

The epitome of a laid-back beach town is Bolonia. If a random fellow traveler hadn’t told me about it, I would have never known about it. Visitors can pick from several beaches in the seaside community. Bolonia Beach is the largest.

There aren’t many great bars or mouthwatering restaurants. If you ever need a history fix, there are also the Roman ruins at Baelo Claudia.

Mojacar is another place in Spain with gorgeous beaches . Again, because it’s a little less well-known, not many people will pay attention when they hear about this place. But one of the most well-known white villages in Andalusia is the lovely town and beach of Mojacar.

There are other reasons to adore Mojacar in addition to the beaches and breathtaking views strewn around the area. There are many locations to eat delicious meals.

Also there here are several options to play golf and take part in different water sports. Along with some of the greatest seafood in the area you can enjoy a real Spanish beach town in Mojacar.

Consider that you wish to experience both Spain’s historical and natural wonders. Travel to the Catalonian city of Tarragona.

Roman remnants from the period, such as the Tarragona Amphitheatre, a chariot track, and an old aqueduct are some of the best preserved in the city. In addition, there are tempting marketplaces, beaches, and shopping districts in the city’s Old Town.

There are enough activities to keep you busy for a few days while you come to know Tarragona. However, it takes a little over an hour to go from Barcelona to Tarragona.

So, if you’re on a tight schedule, you may easily see everything the historic seaside city has to offer during a day trip.

San Sebastian

The northern Spanish city of San Sebastian offers a variety of attractions to offer tourists. Beautiful beaches, expansive scenery, and vibrant nightlife. However, San Sebastian is best recognized for its mouthwatering cuisine. In this port city, 24 Michelin-starred restaurants are serving a variety of cuisines.

You can locate some of the best meals you’ve ever had by simply wandering about the city’s Old Town. As you might expect, foodies appreciate San Sebastian and all of its delectable culinary options.

Canary Islands

Due to their southernmost location, Spain’s Canary Islands boast some of the greatest weather in all of Europe. There will nearly always be mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days. Beautiful beaches and stunning scenery may be found in the Canary Islands.

You’ll understand why it’s one of the most popular Spanish holiday spots once you’ve seen the otherworldly island for yourself.

Spain is a must-stop on many travelers’ European vacation itineraries due to its vibrant metropolises and there are lot of best places to visit for young adults and stunning beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. It may be difficult to choose which cities are worth visiting because there are so many diverse locations, each with its famed sites and distinctive hidden jewels.

Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults

Spain, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and lively atmosphere, is a perfect destination for young adults seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. From dynamic cities to breathtaking coastlines, Spain offers an array of options. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Join us as we explore the best cities in Spain for young people and uncover the ultimate destinations for young adults in this spirited country.

Best Cities in Spain for Young People

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DECEMBER EUROPE, Barcelona, with its iconic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, tops the list for young adults. Explore the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí, savor Catalan cuisine in local markets, and dance the night away in the city’s electrifying clubs.

Caption 1: “Breathtaking Views in Spain

Spain’s capital, Madrid, offers a mix of history, art, and youthful energy. Visit world-class museums like the Prado, stroll through Retiro Park, and indulge in tapas at lively bars.

For party enthusiasts, Ibiza is a must-visit destination. It’s renowned for its electronic dance music scene, beach parties, and picturesque coves. Enjoy sunset views at Café del Mar and dance until dawn.

Valencia, on the Mediterranean coast, combines modernity with tradition. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, relax on the city’s urban beaches, and try the famous Valencian paella.

Tapas Delight in Spain

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN GREECE, Seville, with its historic charm and lively culture, offers a taste of authentic Spain. Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, experience passionate flamenco performances, and savor delicious Andalusian cuisine.

Granada, home to the stunning Alhambra Palace, is a city of Moorish influence and rich history. Explore the Albaicín neighborhood, enjoy tapas in local bars, and experience the beauty of the Alhambra.

San Sebastián:

San Sebastián, in the Basque Country, is known for its beautiful beaches and culinary delights. Try pintxos (Basque tapas) in the Old Town and relax on La Concha Beach.

Breathtaking Views in Spain

Unleash the Spirit of Adventure

FUN VACATION SPOTS FOR YOUNG ADULTS IN THE US, Spain, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and lively atmosphere, is a perfect destination for young adults seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. From dynamic cities to breathtaking coastlines, Spain offers an array of options. Join us as we explore the best cities in Spain for young people and uncover the ultimate destinations for young adults in this spirited country.

Barcelona, with its iconic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches, tops the list for young adults. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Explore the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí, savor Catalan cuisine in local markets, and dance the night away in the city’s electrifying clubs.

Spain’s capital, Madrid, offers a mix of history, art, and youthful energy. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Visit world-class museums like the Prado, stroll through Retiro Park, and indulge in tapas at lively bars.

For party enthusiasts, Ibiza is a must-visit destination. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, It’s renowned for its electronic dance music scene, beach parties, and picturesque coves. Enjoy sunset views at Café del Mar and dance until dawn.

Valencia, on the Mediterranean coast, combines modernity with tradition. Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, relax on the city’s urban beaches, and try the famous Valencian paella.

Seville, with its historic charm and lively culture, offers a taste of authentic Spain. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, experience passionate flamenco performances, and savor delicious Andalusian cuisine.

Granada, home to the stunning Alhambra Palace, is a city of Moorish influence and rich history. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Explore the Albaicín neighborhood, enjoy tapas in local bars, and experience the beauty of the Alhambra.

Flamenco Nights in Spain

San Sebastián, in the Basque Country, is known for its beautiful beaches and culinary delights. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Try pintxos (Basque tapas) in the Old Town and relax on La Concha Beach.

Spain’s diverse cities and regions offer an abundance of experiences for young adults. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, Whether you’re dancing the night away in Barcelona, discovering history in Madrid, or relaxing on the beaches of Ibiza, Spain welcomes young travelers with open arms. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, The country’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for young adults seeking unforgettable adventures and lifelong memories. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the dynamic and captivating Spain!

People Also Ask :

Where is the best place for young people to visit in spain.

Barcelona and Madrid are popular choices for young people in Spain due to their vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and youthful atmosphere. Ibiza is also known for its nightlife and beach parties.

Where is the cheapest place to go in Spain?

Some of the cheaper destinations in Spain include cities like Valencia, Seville, and Granada. These cities offer affordable accommodation and dining options.

How to see Spain in 7 days?

To see Spain in 7 days, focus on specific regions or cities. For example, you can explore Barcelona and its surroundings for a few days, then travel to Madrid for cultural experiences, and finally visit a nearby destination like Toledo or Segovia.

What's better Madrid or Barcelona?

Whether Madrid or Barcelona is better depends on personal preferences. Madrid offers a rich cultural and historical experience, while Barcelona has a unique blend of art, architecture, and seaside charm. Both cities have their own appeal, so it's a matter of what interests you more.

Plan your trip with ontravelx and get ready for a journey full of breathtaking sights and priceless memories. Kindly Visit: https://www.barcelonaturisme.com/wv3/en/

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Best places to visit in spain.

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

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

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

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

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

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

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

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

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

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

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

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

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Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults — Five Must-Visit Locations

https://stellarjourneyer.com/best-places-to-visit-in-spain-for-young/

Spain beckons the young and adventurous with its vibrant blend of sun, culture, and nightlife. Whether planning a solo journey or a group getaway, these best places to visit in Spain for young adults are a mosaic of unforgettable experiences.

Spain is not just a country; it's a feast for the senses, especially for the young and adventurous at heart. From Barcelona's architectural marvels to the legendary parties of Ibiza, this Spanish country offers an unparalleled mix of entertainment, culture, and leisure.

Perfect for those accessible from anywhere in Europe, these destinations promise not just a trip, but a journey into the heart of youth and excitement. Dive into this guide to explore the top summer spots that are just waiting to turn your travel dreams into reality.

Continue reading for a guide on the best places to visit in Spain for young adults that promise unforgettable experiences with their blend of historical sights and vibrant social scenes, all conveniently located within a few hours of each other.

Two young female friends in each other's embrace | Source: Getty Images

Your Ultimate Guide to Youthful Exploration in Spain

1. dive into barcelona: culture and nightlife combined.

Experience the magic of Barcelona, a city where the architectural genius of Antoni Gaudi meets the vibrant energy of beachside fiestas.

Explore the iconic Sagrada Familia by day and by night, and let the city's eclectic bars and clubs carry you away.

Barcelona is a city that promises endless excitement and discovery for young adults.

The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain | Source: Getty Images

2. Discover Madrid: The Pulse of Spanish Culture

In the heart of Spain lies Madrid, a city that pulses with art, history, and life. Wander through the illustrious halls of the Prado and Reina Sofia museums, and embrace the local tradition of tapas in the historic alleys.

From the tranquility of Retiro Park to the buzz of Puerta del Sol, Madrid offers a slice of Spanish life at its best.

Gran Via in Madrid, Spain | Source: Getty Images

3. Party in Ibiza: The World's Dance Floor

Ibiza is synonymous with legendary parties and pristine beaches. Known as the clubbing capital, it offers young adults a nightlife experience like no other, with the world’s most famous DJs and beach parties. By day, recharge on its tranquil shores or discover the island's hidden gems.

Ibiza is a paradise for those who seek fun in the sun and under the stars.

Ibiza, Spain | Source: Getty Images

4. Explore Seville: A Cultural Gem

Seville captures the soul of Spain with its dramatic flamenco performances and historic marvels like the Alcazar. Wander the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter and absorb the city's rich heritage.

Seville invites young travelers to immerse themselves in a deeply authentic Spanish experience.

The Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain | Source: Getty Images

5. Experience Costa Brava: Affordable Fun and Festivity

Costa Brava offers vibrant nightlife, cultural festivals, and a chance for an affordable vacation. From the lively Lloret de Mar to the music beats of the Clone Music Festival, it's a hub for youthful energy and artistic expression.

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Enjoy the perfect blend of party and culture in Costa Brava’s stunning setting.

Sa Tuna beach, Costa Brava, Spain | Source: Getty Images

Spain beckons young adults with its diverse landscapes of culture, nightlife, and adventure. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the festive streets of Ibiza and the historical depth of Seville, Spain is a treasure trove of experiences for young travelers.

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Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults: Exploring the Vibrancy

The Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults, with its rich culture, lively atmosphere, and diverse landscapes, is an ideal destination for young adults. If you are seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. From vibrant cities to picturesque coastal towns, Spain offers a myriad of choices. Here, we explore the best places for young adults to visit, ensuring a journey filled with excitement and discovery.

Table of Contents

1. Barcelona – The City of Gaudi and Beach Vibes

Barcelona is synonymous with the whimsical and fantastical architecture of Antoni Gaudi. The Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s magnum opus, is a breathtaking basilica that makes it the Best Place to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. This Magnus opus defies architectural conventions with its intricate facades and towering spires. Visitors can explore the interiors adorned with colourful stained glass, creating a mesmerizing play of light.

Another Gaudi masterpiece is Park Güell, a public park adorned with vibrant mosaics, whimsical sculptures, and panoramic views of the city. The park’s design reflects Gaudi’s love for natural forms and showcases his distinctive style.

Barcelona , the capital of Catalonia, is a city that seamlessly blends architectural wonders with a lively beach culture. Explore the Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. The iconic Sagrada Familia, stroll down Las Ramblas and soak up the sun on the city’s vibrant beaches. Barcelona’s nightlife, with its beach clubs and eclectic bars, is a magnet for young revellers.

2. Madrid – Urban Energy and Cultural Delights

As the capital of Spain, Madrid pulsates with urban energy and cultural delights. Art enthusiasts can explore the Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults like the famous Prado Museum. While night owls can experience the lively nightlife in neighbourhoods like Malasaña. The city’s parks, including Retiro Park, offer a relaxing escape amid the urban hustle.

Madrid stands as a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, most notably showcased in the renowned Prado Museum. Home to an extensive collection of European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, the Prado is a cultural institution that reflects Spain’s artistic heritage. The nearby Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofia Museum further contribute to Madrid’s status as an art lover’s paradise.

The city’s historic heart, known as Madrid de los Austrias, boasts narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The Royal Palace, a magnificent 18th-century structure, Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults stands as a testament to the city’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms, lush gardens, and the grandeur of Spanish royalty.

3. Ibiza – Party Paradise

Ibiza’s beaches transform into lively party scenes as the sun sets. Beach clubs like Café del Mar and Mambo draw crowds for their famous sunset sessions. Revellers gather on the sandy shores, enjoying Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults with cocktails and the mesmerizing view as the sun dips below the horizon. The beach party culture is ingrained in Ibiza’s DNA, creating an atmosphere of perpetual celebration.

While electronic music is the heartbeat of Ibiza , the island also embraces a diverse music scene. From live performances by international artists to intimate gigs in smaller venues, Ibiza caters to those seeking a broader musical spectrum. This inclusivity adds a layer of depth to the island’s reputation beyond the pulsating beats of EDM. – Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults

For those seeking the ultimate party experience, Ibiza is a must-visit Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. This Balearic Island is synonymous with electronic music, beach parties, and a vibrant nightlife scene. From world-famous clubs to stunning beaches, Ibiza provides an unforgettable playground for young adults.

4. Seville – Flamenco and Historical Charm:

Seville, with its historic charm and passionate flamenco performances, offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Alcazar, wander through the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, and indulge in tapas at local bars. Seville’s lively ambience makes it a perfect destination for young explorers.

Seville’s Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, is one of the Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. This giant cathedral is a masterpiece of religious architecture. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Giralda Tower, a former minaret converted into a bell tower. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the city and a close-up look at the intricate architectural details.

Contrasting with its historic landmarks, Seville is also home to the Metropol Parasol, a modern architectural marvel. Known locally as “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms), this wooden structure provides shade to the square below and offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a symbol of Seville’s ability to embrace both tradition and innovation.

5. Valencia – Arts, Science, and Futuristic Architecture

Valencia, known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, combines modernity with tradition. The city’s innovative architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant street life create the Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults . Don’t miss the lively Central Market and the stunning Turia Gardens.

The crown jewel of Valencia’s modern architecture is the City of Arts and Sciences. This avant-garde complex, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, is a futuristic oasis along the Turia River. The complex includes the Hemisféric (IMAX cinema and planetarium), the Science Museum, the Opera House (Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia), and the Oceanografic (the largest aquarium in Europe). The futuristic structures create a striking contrast against the traditional backdrop of the city.

6. Granada – Alhambra and Bohemian Vibes:

Granada, nestled at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, is renowned for the iconic Alhambra palace. The city exudes a bohemian atmosphere, with its narrow streets filled with tea houses and flamenco bars.  This is one of the best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults to immerse themselves in the eclectic culture of Granada.

Adjacent to the Alhambra, the Generalife Gardens provide a serene retreat. The meticulously landscaped gardens, adorned with fountains, pools, and lush greenery, offer a tranquil escape. The Patio de la Acequia, with its long water channel and cypress trees, is a highlight that showcases the Islamic influence on Andalusian garden design.

For one of the most iconic views of the Alhambra, visitors head to the Mirador de San Nicolás. This scenic viewpoint in the Albaicín offers a postcard-perfect panorama of the fortress against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s a popular spot to capture the essence of Granada in a single frame.

7. San Sebastian – Culinary Delights and Beach Retreat

San Sebastian, located in the Basque Country, is a paradise for food lovers. Indulge in the city’s famous pintxos (small snacks) and relax on the picturesque La Concha beach. The combination of culinary delights and stunning landscapes makes San Sebastian the Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults .

La Concha Beach, with its crescent-shaped shoreline, is one of the most iconic urban beaches in Europe. Framed by the Urgull and Igueldo hills, the beach offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. Visitors can relax on the shore, take a stroll along the promenade, or engage in water sports, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The Old Town, known as Parte Vieja, is a culinary haven where narrow streets are lined with pintxos bars offering a delightful array of small, flavorful dishes. Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, showcases the region’s culinary creativity. Visitors can embark on a pintxos crawl, sampling specialities like txangurro (spider crab) and bacalao pil-pil (cod in garlic sauce).

8. Malaga – Sun, Sea, and Picasso

Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, offers a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches and cultural attractions. Visit the Picasso Museum, explore the historic Alcazaba fortress, and unwind on the city’s vibrant beaches. Malaga’s youthful energy is reflected in its lively bars and trendy neighbourhoods.

Malaga is a gateway to the famous Costa del Sol, a stretch of coastline known for its sun-drenched beaches and sparkling Mediterranean waters. Playa de la Malagueta, just east of the city centre, is a popular Best Place to Visit in Spain for Young Adults. The urban beach is where locals and tourists alike bask in the sun, swim in the sea, and enjoy the vibrant beachfront atmosphere.

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro are Moorish fortresses that showcase Malaga’s historical significance. The Alcazaba, an ancient citadel with well-preserved gardens and courtyards, offers stunning views of the city and the sea. Connecting to the Alcazaba, the Gibralfaro Castle provides panoramic vistas and a glimpse into Malaga’s military history.

Malaga holds the honour of being the birthplace of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso, and the Picasso Museum pays homage to his legacy. Housed in the Palacio de Buenavista, the museum features an extensive collection of Picasso’s works, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and ceramics. It offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of Picasso’s artistic genius.

9. Mallorca – Nature, Nightlife, and Beaches

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a versatile destination for young adults. Explore the Tramuntana Mountains, party in Palma’s clubs, and relax on the island’s stunning beaches. Mallorca’s diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests.

10. Bilbao – Guggenheim and Contemporary Culture

Bilbao, in the heart of the Basque Country, has undergone a cultural renaissance, largely attributed to the Guggenheim Museum. Young adults can explore the museum, wander through the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and savour the city’s vibrant gastronomic scene.

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In conclusion, Spain beckons young adults with its dynamic cities, cultural richness, and diverse landscapes. Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults From seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural exploration, or beach retreats, these destinations offer a tapestry of experiences, ensuring that the adventure in Spain is as diverse and spirited as its people.

FAQs related to Best Places to Visit in Spain for Young Adults

Q: What makes Spain an ideal destination for young adults?

A: Spain offers a vibrant mix of cultural richness, diverse landscapes, and lively cities, making it an exciting destination for young adults seeking adventure and exploration.

Q: What are the top cities in Spain recommended for young travelers?

A: Barcelona, Madrid, Ibiza, Seville, Valencia, Granada, San Sebastian, Mallorca, and Bilbao are highly recommended for their unique experiences.

Q: Is Spain generally considered safe for young adults traveling alone?

A: Yes, Spain is generally considered safe for solo travelers. However, it’s advisable to practice common safety precautions in urban areas.

Q: What is the best time of the year to visit Spain for young adults?

A: The spring and fall seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a vibrant atmosphere, making them ideal times for young adults to visit Spain.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions for young adults in Barcelona?

A: Must-visit attractions include Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, and the vibrant beaches. The city’s unique architecture and lively atmosphere are also highlights.

Q: How is Barcelona’s nightlife, and what are the popular nightlife spots?

A: Barcelona’s nightlife is vibrant. Popular spots include Pacha Barcelona, Opium Barcelona, and Razzmatazz, offering a diverse range of music and atmospheres.

Q: Are there any specific beach activities in Barcelona suitable for young adults?

A: Young adults can enjoy beach volleyball, water sports, and beachside cafes. Barceloneta Beach is known for its lively atmosphere.

Q: What cultural experiences can young adults enjoy in Madrid?

A: Cultural experiences include visiting the Prado Museum, exploring Retiro Park, and immersing in the art and history of the city.

Q: Which neighborhoods in Madrid are known for their vibrant nightlife?

A: Malasaña and Chueca are popular neighborhoods known for their lively bars, clubs, and late-night atmosphere.

Q: Are there any unique events or festivals in Madrid that young adults should attend?

A: Events like the Mad Cool Festival and San Isidro Festival offer unique experiences with live music, street performances, and cultural celebrations.

Q: What makes Ibiza a renowned party destination for young adults?

A: Ibiza is known for its world-famous clubs, electronic music scene, and beach parties that attract partygoers from around the world.

Q: Are there alternatives to clubbing in Ibiza for young travelers?

A: Yes, young adults can explore quieter beaches, visit historic sites like Dalt Vila, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Q: How can young adults make the most of their time on Ibiza’s beaches?

A: Relax on iconic beaches like Playa d’en Bossa, engage in water sports, and experience the laid-back beach culture during the day.

Q: What cultural attractions in Seville appeal to young adults?

A: Cultural attractions include the Alcazar, the Santa Cruz neighborhood, and flamenco performances, providing a rich and immersive experience.

Q: Is there a particular time of the year when Seville comes alive for young travelers?

A: Seville comes alive during events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril, offering lively celebrations and cultural experiences.

Q: What are the best areas in Seville for young adults to explore?

A: The neighborhoods of Triana and Alameda are known for their youthful atmosphere, with trendy bars, cafes, and local hangouts.

Q: What are the modern attractions in Valencia that young adults would enjoy?

A: The City of Arts and Sciences, Turia Gardens, and the lively Central Market are modern attractions that appeal to young travelers.

Q: Are there any unique cultural experiences in Valencia suitable for young travelers?

A: Young adults can explore the vibrant Fallas Festival, indulge in traditional paella, and experience the city’s dynamic arts scene.

Q: How can young adults explore Valencia’s culinary scene?

A: Exploring the Central Market, trying local tapas, and participating in paella cooking classes offer immersive experiences into Valencia’s culinary delights.

Q: What historical and cultural sites in Granada are recommended for young adults?

A: The Alhambra palace, the Albayzín neighborhood, and the Sacromonte district provide rich historical and cultural experiences.

Q: Are there any specific events or festivals that showcase Granada’s bohemian vibe?

A: Granada’s bohemian vibe is evident in events like the International Festival of Music and Dance and the Fiestas de la Virgen de las Angustias.

Q: What are some budget-friendly activities for young adults in Granada?

A: Exploring the free-to-enter Albayzín and Sacromonte neighborhoods, hiking in the nearby Sierra Nevada, and enjoying tapas in local bars are budget-friendly activities.

Q: What culinary experiences make San Sebastian a great destination for young adults?

A: San Sebastian is renowned for its pintxos, offering young adults a chance to indulge in unique and flavorful Basque cuisine.

Q: How can young adults best enjoy the beaches of San Sebastian?

A: La Concha Beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, providing a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.

Q: Are there any outdoor activities in the surrounding areas of San Sebastian suitable for young travelers?

A: Young adults can explore nearby hiking trails, surf in Zurriola Beach, and take day trips to the scenic Basque countryside.

Q: What diverse activities can young adults engage in while visiting Mallorca?

A: Young adults can explore the Tramuntana Mountains, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Palma, and relax on the island’s stunning beaches.

Q: How is Mallorca’s nightlife scene, and what areas are popular for young travelers?

A: Palma’s Santa Catalina and Paseo Marítimo areas offer a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and beachfront venues.

Q: Are there any specific nature adventures for young adults in Mallorca? A: Nature adventures include hiking in the Tramuntana Mountains, exploring the Cuevas del Drach caves, and discovering hidden coves along the coastline.

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8 Days / 7 Nights

Early signup: from $2,495, taxes included, regular: from $2,695, or $195 down.

-Try delicious Spanish cuisine -3 Autonomous Regions of Spain -Gaudí's architecture in Barcelona -Night adventure hike in Granada -Watch a Flamenco show in Seville -Visit Madrid, the capital of Spain

THE EXPERIENCE

Immerse yourself in some of Spain’s most magnificent cities and soak up the culture like a local as you explore its rich and diverse history. 

Experience the culture by eating tapas at local markets, walk down cobble stoned streets, watch the ‪flamenco‬ song and dance, and take in the sun at the beach.

Take the opportunity to visit palaces that were built in the 13th century like the Alhambra and Alcazar. Enter majestic cathedrals located in the historical center of each city like the famous Sagrada Familia, the gothic Catedral de Barcelona, and Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede where Christopher Columbus is buried. Take a step back even further in time and visit an ancient Roman city featuring ancient ruins and a huge amphitheater.

Trip begins at Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) at 11:00 a.m. Please book your arrival flight a few hours before this time

Arrival time is not mandatory, but guarantees included group transportation.

Trip ends in Madrid City Center Plan to depart at anytime on Day 8

Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to airport.

Physical Activity:

This trip is relaxing and includes light activities with optional moderate activities. Participants can decide how much time they spend being active. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the experience.

This trip is a good mix of activity and relaxation and includes moderate physical activities. Participants should expect to be active 3-4 hours most days. An active lifestyle is helpful though not required to enjoy the trip.

This trip is for those who enjoy being physically challenged and reaping the rewards. It includes moderate to intense physical activities and participants should expect to be active 6-8 hours most days. Participants should have an active lifestyle.

Cancellation Policy:

Very flexible.

This trip has a 30-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 30 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Because this trip has non-refundable tickets we have a 60-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 60 days notice and you can switch your trip less $195, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Because this trip has non-refundable tickets we have a 60-day cancellation policy. Give us at least 60 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

Trip Overview

Arrival in barcelona.

Bienvenidos a España! Arrive at Barcelona International Airport and take included transportation to your boutique hotel in the heart of the city.

Spend the afternoon walking around the different neighborhoods that Barcelona has to offer. Don’t miss La Sagrada Familia, a church designed by the world-famous architect Antoni Gaudí. 

Get to know a completely unique part of Spain, as the region of Catalonia has their own language and culture.

Enjoy Catalan cuisine and the non-stop nightlife that will make your stay in Barcelona unforgettable.

Explore Granada

Take an early morning flight to Granada which is a city located in the Andalucía region of Spain.

Granada was held captive as a Moorish kingdom for almost 800 years thus leaving a lot of traces of its culture behind for us to see and experience. 

Spend the afternoon walking through its historical quarter and don’t forget to pass by a bazaar! 

Before sunset, depart on an included night adventure hike which has been recognized as one of the best night tours in the world.

Granada Immersion

Today you will have the option to visit the Palace of the Alhambra. Spend the morning discovering different treasures inside this palace dating back hundreds of years.

Walk down the whitewashed rows of houses and narrow roads of the Realejo neighborhood. 

Return to your favorite areas of the city and enjoy the Spanish way of life for the rest of the day. It’s rather easy to get used to. Everything starts later in Spain, so expect dinner to be around 9:00 p.m.

Experience Seville

Take an early morning private shuttle to Seville, Andalucía’s capital. 

Spend the day exploring this beautiful city by foot or by bike. Check out Plaza España, one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Head over to Parque Maria Luisa, visit the Cathedral of Seville, or climb the Giralda Bell Tower before resting up for our evening activity.

Spend the evening watching a flamenco show and having a late tapas dinner with your friends.

Explore the Real Alcazar

Wake-up in Seville and start your day by exploring the Real Alcazar, a beautiful royal palace still in use today. Stroll the gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and walk through some famous Game of Thrones scenes.

Enjoy the afternoon by choosing between optional activities like a flamenco dance class, a Spanish tile workshop, or visiting an ancient Roman city.

Have dinner in another delicious restaurant in the city. Seville has many options for food and will never disappoint. Along with your dinner enjoy a tinto de verano, the local sangria.

Cadiz Beach Day

Spend the day in Cadiz, known for having almost as much sun as any city in the world.

Have an authentic lunch at the local market filled with fresh food. If weather permits, relax at the beach, and take the time to explore the Castle of San Sebastián, and the Castle of Santa Catalina.

Head back to Seville and spend your last night together enjoying tapas the Sevillano way.

Discover Madrid

Today, take the high speed train from Seville to Madrid.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful capital of Spain. Don't miss Gran Via, La Puerta del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel, the Royal Palace, and Catedral de Almudena to name a few.

Enjoy your last dinner in Spain with your friends and experience the nightlife of Madrid.

Relaxation & Departure

On the final day of our adventure, wake-up early to soak in the last morning in Europe together.

Say goodbye to your new friends and depart at any time of the day with instructions from your Trip Leader on how to take taxis, buses, or local transportation to the airport.

Ask your Trip Leaders for suggestions if you choose to spend more time in Madrid.

What's Included:

• 8 days / 7 nights shared accommodations in boutique hotels
• 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
• Domestic flight from Barcelona to Granada
• Walking tours of Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Cadiz, and Madrid
• Delicious authentic Spanish meals
• Explore Barcelona's world famous Gothic architecture
• Night adventure hike in Granada
• Traditional Flamenco show in Seville
• Entrance to Real Alcazar Royal Palace
• Lounge on beautiful beaches in Cadiz
• High speed train from Seville to Madrid
• Private ground transportation throughout Spain
• Airport pick-up upon arrival
• Under30Experiences Trip Leader
• Personal recommendations for optional activities
• The chance to meet some kick-ass people
• Access to the Under30Experiences Community
• Taxes always included, never hidden fees, & NO blackout dates

Travelers are responsible for international airfare to and from Spain Travelers are responsible for booking tickets to Optional Activities ahead of time

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"The Under30Experience Spain trip was beyond my expectations. Eric and Rebecca made sure the trip was exactly what each of us wanted it to be. We were a tight family by the end of the trip and I was very sad that it was over so quickly. I left with new friends as well as a new love of tapas and the Spanish culture. It was the perfect combination of tourist experiences and off the beaten path adventures. I highly recommend this personalized, reasonable, life changing experience! Thank you U30X!" -Sarah F.

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"I just got back from 9 amazing days in Spain. This was my first trip with under30 and the trip far exceeded my expectations. I write this teary-eyed with gratitude. Rebecca and Eric, our group leaders, were awesome. They were fun and playful yet responsible, knowledgeable, patient, supportive and kind. I felt like I was in good hands at all times—in fact we all started calling them mom and dad by the end of the trip! I couldn't have asked for a better group to see the world with :)" -Jennifer B.

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"If you're reading my review, my guess is that you're probably deciding if you should click the "submit" button on your Under30Experiences tour. My answer in short; stop second guessing and click that submit button. I just returned to the US after an extensive tour through Spain with Under30. It exceeded my expectations and I hope to be able to take future tours with them. If you are someone that craves a solo international trip but doesn't feel quite ready, or wants to make some guaranteed friends along the way, this is the company for you! I have already been spreading the word about Under30Experiences to many of my friends and I plan to continue doing so." -Ben K.

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The 8 best places to visit in Spain in 2024

Feb 13, 2024 • 7 min read

From the Catalonian capital of Barcelona to the fascinating mix of cultures in Toledo, here are the best places to visit in Spain © Westend61 / Getty Images

Coming second only to its northern neighbor as the most visited country in the world, Spain is packed with incredible places to visit and experiences to enjoy.

Sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, World Heritage cities, incredible cuisine, and multi-faceted culture – the only downside is not knowing where to begin with your must-see list. I've done all the hard work for you and gathered together my eight favorite places to visit in sensational Spain in 2024.

Best city for visiting world-class art museums 

The Spanish capital  is a lively city blessed with year-round clear blue skies draped over its vibrant barrios (neighborhoods) , architectural landmarks and famed art museums. There's even an ancient Egyptian temple, the Templo de Debod , right in Madrid's city center. 

Art aficionados could spend days exploring Madrid's "Golden Triangle of Art," composed of three globally renowned museums , the Museo del Prado , Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza , which are home to some of the world's most valuable art collections. They are situated along Madrid's Paseo del Prado (Art Walk) , which has recently been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Planning tip:  Madrid has a vibrant street culture that loves its wine-soaked tapas crawls. Cava Baja in the historic La Latina neighborhood is lined with quaint little bars and taverns, making it one of the best streets in the city to join locals hopping from one bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, charcuterie and cheeses.

2. Barcelona

Best for modernist architecture

Straddling the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees mountains, the Catalonian capital is a visually stunning metropolis with avant-garde architecture, city beaches and a Gothic Quarter that stretches back over 2000 years.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without spending time at the Sagrada Família , the obra maestra of the illustrious Catalan architect and proponent of Modernism, Antoní Gaudí. His influence on the city is everywhere, and it's worth taking time to visit his other architectural jewels, the Casa Batlló , La Pedrera and Park Güell.

Another place where Gaudí has left his legacy is at the Plaça Reial , at the heart of the city's two millennia-old Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) . The public square is lit up by decorative street lamps that were Gaudí's first commissioned public work. This ancient neighborhood is also home to the majestic La Catedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, which was built over two centuries from the 13th to the 15th centuries. At the border of the quarter is Mercat de la Boqueria , one of the oldest markets in Europe.

Planning tip: Have a lunchtime visit to Mercat de la Boqueria – it's when the unassuming places to eat, run by charismatic owners, start to open up.

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.

San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, has evolved from a traditional whaling town into a world-famous gastronomic capital. It has the greatest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in Europe, and gastronomic delights await you around every corner.

Planning tip:  You don't need to have a Michelin-star budget to be able to enjoy San Sebastián's food culture. Head over to the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter), particularly along 31 de Agosto Street. The streets here are lined with restaurants and bars offering dizzying rows of assorted pintxos  – literally translating as "spike." The name describes how these appetizers are presented with skewers or toothpicks for easy picking.

4. Balearic islands

Best for beaches and sapphire-colored waters

Anyone who's been to these outlying islands east of the Iberian Peninsula would recognize the "Balearic blues" — the distinct shades of blue that characterize these Mediterranean waters. This archipelago's four largest islands –  Ibiza , Mallorca , Menorca and Formentera – are blessed with countless beaches and calas  (coves) embraced by white sand coastlines and rugged cliffs.

Among these islands, Ibiza is the most famous one, mainly for its reputation as a 24/7 party destination. Yet Ibiza's clubbing culture is just a tiny slice of this spectacular island on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is fringed with sapphire-colored waters, filled with historic fortified towns, and has a wealth of hidden inlets and charming beachside restaurants and cafes. You can visit the ruins of the ancient Phoenician civilization at Sa Caleta and the Puig des Molins necropolis to get a glimpse of the ancient colonies that inhabited this island long before the clubbers discovered it. 

Best place for cultural sightseeing

The delights of  Seville are in the details – this charming Andalusian capital may give you the sensation of déjà vu, perhaps because its year-round sunny days, resplendent gardens and intricately carved palaces have made it a favored filming location for big productions from Star Wars to Game of Thrones . Its allure lies in its idiosyncratic mix – horse-drawn carriages, flamenco tablaos  (stages), colossal Gothic structures and Islamic stylistic details all blend to create this multi-layered dreamscape of a city.

Seville's rich cultural tapestry is the legacy of its long and varied history, once a Moorish capital, later the seat of the Castilian aristocracy, and then as the European gateway to the Americas after Columbus' journey in 1492. The unique juxtaposition of cultures could not be more apparent when visiting the Seville Cathedral , the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the final resting place of Columbus, and then just a few meters away, the Real Alcázar showcasing the splendor of Mudéjar architecture with Islamic, Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Planning tip:  Want to experience a huge celebration? Time your visit for one of the city's great annual festivals , notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril.

Best for layers of history

This 2000-year-old walled city occupies a significant place in Spain's history. It was the former capital of the Visigothic Kingdom, a fortress of the Emirate of Cordoba, a Roman municipium, the seat of power of King Charles V, and the former capital of Spain until 1560 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Jewish, Christian and Islamic influences, Toledo has earned the nickname "The City of Three Cultures." Walk along its narrow cobblestone streets to glimpse the vestiges of this unique cultural melange — ancient Roman structures, Moorish architectural styles, the Catedral de Toledo , the El Tránsito Synagogue and the Cristo de la Luz Mosque .

Planning tip:  Head over to the Mirador del Valle for spectacular panoramic views and a picture-perfect photo of this historic city by the Tagus River.

Best city for Western Islamic architecture

Situated at the foot of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range is the postcard-perfect Andalusian city of Granada . It is home to the Alhambra palace complex and the ancient citadel of the Nasrid Dynasty, the last Muslim dynasty in the Iberian Peninsula which ruled until the 15th century. Meaning "the Red One," the Alhambra is a stunning architectural masterpiece merging Moorish and Christian decorative elements – it's impossible not to feel transported to a fantasy world with its intricately carved walls and archways, mirror-like pools and colorful mosaics. 

Planning tip:  Continue the visual feast at the Palacio de Generalife right by the Alhambra, a summer palace whose gardens and perfectly orchestrated fountains provided repose for the ancient Nasrid sultans.

8. Santiago de Compostela

Best city for spiritual tourism

Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia and the final destination of the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage, a tradition that stretches back over 1000 years. On any day of the week, you'll see pilgrims from all over the world paying their respects at the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela , the reputed burial place of St James the Apostle. 

Even non-pilgrims can relish the mystical beauty of this northern Spanish city with a distinct Celtic heritage. Its beating heart is the Plaza del Obradoiro , where the luxurious Hostal dos Reis Católicos  stands, believed to be the oldest hotel in the world that was once a hostel for pilgrims.

Planning tip:  Santiago has a rich gastronomic tradition highlighted by its excellent seafood, so be hungry when you visit the city's second most popular attraction after the Cathedral, the Mercado de Abastos food market.

This article was first published August 2021 and updated February 2024

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10 Best Places in Spain for Solo Travel

Spain is one of the best value and most rewarding countries for solo travel in Europe. It’s one of the larger countries in the region and is second only to Italy in the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The classic backpacker destinations in Spain are the big cities – Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia – as well as the southern region of Andalucia which combines amazing historic sites with a unique culture and Moorish architecture.

There’s also the Balearic islands – home to some of the best beaches in Spain , and its best nightlife. Or the northern cities which are gaining a reputation for some of the best food in Europe.

The range of hostels available has improved dramatically in the last decade, and most cities now sport flashpacker hostels with impeccable design credentials that you can combine with tapas tours for unbeatable city breaks. Some hostels will require HI membership for guests over 30.

The major cities in Spain are well-connected by rail, with Madrid the central hub, although delays are frequent and long-distance routes require compulsory advance booking. Buses offer a cheaper alternative. Just be sure to allow plenty of time in your itinerary given the distances.

No surprises that Barcelona is number one on this list – the Catalan capital is one of Europe’s most popular cities to visit. And for good reason.

The top thing to do in Barcelona is to check out those crazy unique landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudi whose architecture defines the city – the Sagrada Familia (pictured above) and Park Güell are the most famous, but there are others to hunt out. Art and design figure strongly in this city and you’ll also find museums dedicated to Picasso and Joan Miro.

Barcelona is also one of Europe’s great beach cities, and heaven for foodies. If your budget allows you can take in one of the city’s numerous Michelin starred restaurants.

Don’t miss day trips to charming nearby city Girona and to the monastery of Monserrat with its dramatic rock formations.

There’s no shortage of good hostels to lay your head in Barcelona – the difficulty is deciding where to stay. 

Some of the hostel highlights include:

• Generator and St Christopher’s Inn Barcelona are two of the big party hostels in town
• TOC Hostel has a small plunge pool on its rooftop terrace.
• Bed & Bike gets rave reviews for its central location, free morning bike tours, and amiable atmosphere
• Amistat Beach Hostel is close to the beach and has regular social events and free pasta

The Spanish capital is one of the most stylish, cosmopolitan, and entertaining cities you’ll visit. Its residents are known for enjoying life – it has the highest number of bars per person of any European city, and the nightlife here starts and runs late.

This is partially on account of the climate. Most of Spain’s tourist destinations are on its coast but Madrid is in central Spain, far inland. Madrid is dry and can be extremely hot in summer, and surprisingly cold in winter.

Madrid’s centre is packed full of royal palaces, extravagant art collections and museums, elegant gardens, and buzzing avenues.

The Hat Hostel has a great central location, hip minimalist decor and organises free walking tours and social events.

Safestay Madrid is a little bit further out but has huge airy dorms and an amazing rooftop terrace for meeting fellow travellers.

And Mola Hostel describes itself as a ‘poshtel’ and has plenty of social activities, a great location, and pod-style beds.

SAN SEBASTIAN

Foodies and beach lovers will both be content in Spain’s city of gastronomy, San Sebastian. Also known as Donostia, this city in the Basque Country has more Michelin stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world.

But you don’t need a bulging wallet to eat well here, thanks to its tradition of pintxos (small snacks on sticks served with drinks) and incredible seafood.

Plus it’s a short train ride to nearby Bilbao and the wine region of Rioja.

You can stay at design hostel A Room in the City in San Sebastian, which has pod beds and an excellent communal courtyard for evening socialising. Or if you’re in town for the surf rather than the food then check out Surfing Etxea hostel.

Valencia is Spain’s third city, and probably the most underrated as a travel destination. Here is a vibrant and creative coastal city where you can find charming old streets alongside innovative futuristic architecture.

Highlights include the glistening modern City of Arts and Science buildings (and its amazing aquarium, planetarium, and gardens), the old Barri del Carme neighbourhood, the cathedral and the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange building, and the golden sands of Malvarrosa beach.

It’s also the home of the famous rice dish paella so don’t forget to tuck into a portion – or take a cooking class – before you go.

There are plenty of hostels in Valencia but the best blend of design and sociability can be found at Cantagua Hostel .

One of Spain’s undisputed highlights is the southern city of Seville, the capital of Andalucia. If you’re visiting the south then a trip to Seville is a must.

The Cathedral and the UNESCO-listed Alcazar palace are two of the best blockbuster buildings in the country (and the latter was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones ), but Seville’s real appeal lies in its spirited culture. Seville is the home of flamenco, bullfighting, tapas, fiestas, colourful ceramic tiles, and the Holy Week processions (Semana Santa). 

There’s also some fine modern architecture to admire such as the Metropol Parasol.

It’s hard to beat the Oasis Backpackers Seville for accommodation – it has a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, chilled vibes and social events. TOC Hostel Seville is a worthy boutique hostel contender.

Granada is definitely one of the best small cities for backpackers and solo travellers in Spain. It certainly packs a punch when it comes to historic and cultural attractions.

The crowd-pleaser here is the Alhambra, a hilltop Moorish palace that overlooks the city and is the most visited attraction in Spain. Ticketing was introduced in xxxx

But beyond the Alhambra is a fascinating university town where. It’s one of the few remaining cities where you’ll still receive free tapas with your drinks, making it a great place for those on a budget. The Alhambra forms a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the unique neighbourhoods of Albaicín (the old Muslim quarter) and Sacromonte (the old Roma quarter known for its cave dwellings and flamenco shoes).

You can find excellent hiking and skiing nearby in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

Stay at Lemon Rock Granada , a hostel with some beautiful design features, a central location, and a sociable bar.

The Balearic island of Ibiza is synonymous with partying – the nightlife here is legendary. It’s also a summer beach destination par excellence , with some of the best sandy beaches in Europe . Most of the island’s visitors come for this intoxicating combination.

Bring plenty of euros because going out in Ibiza is eye-wateringly expensive, for both admission and drinks prices.

Ibiza Town is the island’s beautiful historic capital and home to the more upmarket clubs and bars. This is the place to see and be seen. The streets are packed with equally expensive designer boutiques and chic bars.

The coastal town of San Antonio is more raucous and budget-friendly, catering to a boozy package tourism crowd as well as the islands LGBT scene. Head to the far end of the beach for Cafe Del Mar and its blissed-out sunset soundtracks.

There are a few hostels in Ibiza these days. Amistat Island Hostel was the first – it has a decent-sized pool, a bar, and modern facilities however it’s worth noting that it uses fingerprint access.

The small and charming town is a perfect getaway if you’ve mainly been hitting up big cities on your solo trip. Tarifa is on the south coast, not far from Gibraltar and Cadiz, and has long been popular with the kitesurfing community thanks to its consistent conditions. This has attracted a bohemian crowd who come for its pretty whitewashed streets, lively bars, and excellent restaurants. 

It’s a great place to chill out and regroup for a while – being the kind of place where you’ll find yoga and smoothies in abundance. There is an excellent sandy beach – but be prepared to be blasted by winds.

Lay your head at the highly-rated Kite Hostel , for chilled-out vibes with minimalist white decor and excellent communal areas.

GRAN CANARIA

Spain’s Canary Islands offer a  completely different experience to mainland Spain with their volcanic landscapes and Latin-influenced culture.

Located out in the Atlantic Ocean, closer to Africa than Europe, they are known as the Islands of Eternal Spring for their year-round climate. This makes them a great choice for a warm winter break.

Of the islands, Gran Canaria is arguably the best for solo travellers, just avoid the mass tourism resorts on the south coast. Capital city Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is well served by international flights and is one of the biggest cities in Spain. Thanks to its growing surf and digital nomad scene it now has a handful of great hostels, making it more accessible for solo travel.

It’s the best base for exploring the rest of the island. Gran Canaria is often referred to as being a mini continent for its diversity of landscapes, making it a great place for active travellers. Don’t miss hiking in the island’s spectacular interior, surfing, diving, or exploring pretty historic towns like Tejeda and Teror.

Lua Lua Hostel is cute, clean, and friendly, and located close to the beach in Las Palmas. And Columbus Rooftop Hostel has an amazing terrace and scores highly on atmosphere.

PALMA DE MALLORCA

One of the most popular summer destinations in Europe, the Balearic island of Mallorca is truly the island that has it all – impeccable sandy beaches, the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, and countless beautiful stone villages with arty vibes.

And to top it all off is the compelling capital city Palma de Mallorca. Palma has bags of cultural appeal with its historic old town, gothic cathedral, Moorish palaces, and excellent food and art scenes. Food-lovers shouldn’t miss Tapas Tuesday or the San Juan Mercado Gastronomico.

And of course, it’s not far to the beach. Palma makes a wonderful city break or base for exploring the island. A highlight is taking the wooden train to pretty Soller in the north-west of the island.

Hostel Fleming is a modern boutique hostel with classy design and a central location in Palma. It’s worth noting that there’s no AC though – in the hot summer months you’re better off heading for somewhere by a beach anyway.

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Casa Batllo facade: © Luciano Mortula-LGM

Barcelona Sagrada Familia: Mapics / Shutterstock

Madrid: © Sonia / Adobe Stock

San Sebastian: © Alan Kraft / Shutterstock

Valencia: © lunamarina / Shutterstock

Seville: © emperorcosar / Shutterstock

Granada:   © Madrugada Verde / Shutterstock

Ibiza: © lunamarina / Shutterstock

Tarifa: © Juanamari Gonzalez / Shutterstock

Malaga: © Valery Bareta / Shutterstock

Palma de Mallorca: © Allard One / Shutterstock

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Travel Safe

Switch yourself on: 10 ideas for travelling with friends and getting back to normal

ALL YEAR – St James' Way

Thousands of people do it and almost all of them agree: the Camino is a unique, different experience worth doing at least once in your life. Take a backpack and comfortable shoes, and get ready to walk a stage on Spain's most famous pilgrimage route . The end point is Santiago de Compostela, the Way runs through northern Spain, and good company will be a great motivator as you travel through beautiful scenery, discover rich heritage and eat some really delicious food. 

ALL YEAR - Motorbike tours

This is one of those ideas you'll remember with pleasure for years to come. A group of friends, hundreds of kilometres to travel, and the adventure of riding a motorbike through beautiful landscapes. There are plenty of options, depending on your interests. Riding along the Mediterranean coast of Spain ? Following the Silver Route ? Crossing colourful Andalusia ? Discovering the green valleys of Asturias? Or even travelling on your own bike from home to attend a World Motorcycle Championship Grand Prix?

ALL YEAR – Weekend getaways

Barcelona, Madrid, Bilbao, Valencia, Seville and even Ibiza are top summer destinations for a quick break with friends. The reasons? Excellent transport links from everywhere in Europe, an unbeatable range of leisure, culture and entertainment, and lots of interesting places close together enough to visit in just a few hours. Which is your pick?

ALL YEAR – The world's most dangerous footpath

At least, it was until recently. We're talking about Caminito del Rey (in Málaga, Andalusia). It's now been made safe for visitors, but it's still just as spectacular and dizzying as it ever was. Its location, very close to the Costa del Sol , makes it easy to combine with a few days on the Mediterranean beaches, or even a round of golf in the sport's European capital: Marbella

SPRING – Rafting and white water

Excitement, speed and lots of action. The spring thaws turn the rivers into fast-flowing torrents and a thrilling ride for your team. While the rivers are fuller in spring, this is still a great option in early summer. There are many areas where you can do this, but one of the best is in the Pyrenees of Lleida, with some of Europe's best-known rivers for rafting, such as the Noguera Pallaresa and the Noguera Ribagorzana. See more possible destinations here.

SPRING AND SUMMER – Zipline time

It's pure adrenaline - or pure magic. We have two unusual and very special ziplines to share with you. The first, in Fuentespalda (Teruel, Aragón), will keep you in the air nearly two minutes as you fly two kilometres, on one of the longest ziplines in Europe. The second is the only one of its kind in the world, because you travel in time as well as space. It's in Sanlúcar de Guadiana (Huelva, Andalucía), and as you speed along at 70 kilometres an hour you'll also travel back an hour in time. What's the trick? You cross a frontier as you fly, and when you come back to earth you'll be in Portugal, where it's an hour earlier.

SPRING AND AUTUMN – 4x4 or quad bike tours of unique landscapes

What are the advantages of a four-wheel drive vehicle? A guide can take several of you on a trip into hard-to-access terrain. Why choose a quad bike? Everyone can drive, and the extra freedom is extra fun. Either way, what's important is deciding where you and your friends are going to ride. You can start with our suggestions. A lunar landscape? Take note of the routes in Bardenas Reales Natural Park (Navarre). Movie-worthy deserts? Tabernas (in Almería, Andalusia) or Monegros (Huesca and Zaragoza, in Aragón). A nature reserve where the landscapes change with the seasons? Our pick is Doñana National Park (in Huelva, Andalusia). Volcanic terrain and constant good weather? Choose the Canary Islands .

SUMMER – Time to set sail

Whether or not you're a seasoned sailor, a few summer days on the coast of Spain is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy water sports. You can join a sailing course (for any level) or get certified for scuba diving. Try out surfing or windsurfing, or rent water scooters on the beach. The options are plentiful and can be enjoyed everywhere along the coast.

SUMMER – Life is a festival

From June to September, Spain moves to the beat of the music, as thousands of young people dance till they drop in festivals. Some of them are in beach destinations, like the famous FIB, Arenal Sound, and Los Álamos Beach. Others are in major cities, like Sónar or Primavera Sound in Barcelona, and MadCool or Dcode in Madrid. And there are alternative options like the Ortigueira Celtic World Festival or the Rototom Reggae Festival. Check the dates at this link and get ready to dance.

WINTER – Enjoy the snow and the après ski

If you think Spain is all sun and sand, you're in for a surprise. It's one of the most mountainous countries in Europe, with plenty of snow in winter for fun at its ski resorts. Some of the most prestigious are La Molina (Girona, Catalonia) and Sierra Nevada (Granada, Andalusia), regular venues on the international ski circuit, or Baqueira-Beret (Lleida, Catalonia) and Formigal (Huesca, Aragon), offering the most kilometres of ski slopes in the Spanish Pyrenees. Snowshoeing, heliski, hiking, dogsledding, hot water spas, and a very wide range of après ski activities in all the resorts ensure you'll have a great time on a winter holiday in Spain.

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20 Things to Do in Spain in Your 20s

Your 20s are a time for exploration, adventure and exciting experiences, and there’s nowhere better for all three than Spain . From tomato fights to scaling volcanoes, discover the best experiences you can have in Spain during your 20s.

Party in ibiza.

The parties on Ibiza are legendary . Home to some of the largest nightclubs in the world – Privilege can hold 10,000 people – and attracting some of the biggest DJs of the electro, house and trance scene, Ibiza is the ultimate party island. Each year, it seems, the music gets louder, the nights get longer and the atmosphere gets wilder.

Find Your Way on the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago – sometimes known as Saint James’ Way in English – is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in Europe. It’s a network of routes that ends at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia . The Spanish part begins in the Pyrenees mountains and takes you across the whole northwest of Spain. An impressive feat for even the hardiest of walkers, the camino is also a spiritual journey, not just in religious terms, but as a moment of contemplation and removal from modern life.

Get Dirty at La Tomatina Festival

Taking place in the small town of Buñol in Valencia, La Tomatina involves a large-scale tomato-throwing fight and results in some pretty impressive sights. Buckets and buckets of extra-ripe tomatoes are brought to the town for the celebration, which has taken place since 1945 and today attracts tourists from far and wide.

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Go to Sónar Music Festival in Barcelona

One of the leading electronic music festivals in the world, Sónar Music festival is one of the most highly anticipated events to take place in the city. Divided into two parts – Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night – the party never seems to end for a whole week.

Eat a Calçotada

Growing only at a particular time of the year, generally between January and April, calçots are a type of sweet spring onion that are considered a delicacy in Spain. The traditional way to eat them is called a calçotada and involves a day-long barbecue feast. The onions are charred until the outside layer goes black; the skin is peeled off to reveal a beautifully tender inside. Grab it whole and dip it into a rich nutty sauce called romesco before dangling it straight into your mouth. It always gets messy, but fortunately you are customarily also given a large bib.

Watch an El Clásico Match

You don’t need to be a sports fan to be able to appreciate the atmosphere at an El Clásico match. Barcelona and Madrid have a long history of rivalry and in terms of football, FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid is one of the most important matches of the season. Pick your side carefully and make sure you’re sitting in the right section.

Get Singed at La Patum de Bergà

In 2005 La Patum de Bergà was recognised as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. A five-day-long celebration of Corpus Christi, La Patum features processions, dances and – most remarkably – a lot of pyrotechnics. The open-air ball known as Els Plens sees crowds gather on the main square, usually dressed up as devils and mystical creatures, to dance in the dark while fireworks and sparklers are let off all around them.

Climb a Volcano

Tenerife may mostly have a reputation as a package-holiday destination, but it is also home to Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide, an active volcano and part of the island’s Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park, with its lunar landscapes, is a great place to hike and see a completely different side of the popular holiday isle.

Do the Grapes on New Year’s Eve

A treasured Spanish tradition on New Year’s Eve, ‘doing the grapes’ involves scoffing down a grape on each gong of midnight. If you manage to eat all twelve grapes, you are guaranteed a prosperous and lucky year ahead. The place to ring in the new year – along with your punnet of grapes – is Madrid’s Puerta del Sol. Celebrations from the square are broadcast live across Spain.

Visit Europe’s Biggest Aquarium

The stunning L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia is part of the city’s futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a series of domed glass buildings designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who recently designed New York’s Oculus . The aquarium is divided into 10 areas with 45,000 animals, including penguins, dolphins, beluga whales and sea lions.

Ride an International Zip Line

One unusual way to cross the border between Spain and Portugal is on an international zip line. The 720-metre (2,362-foot) line whizzes daredevils at speeds of up to 80 kilometres an hour (50 miles an hour) over the River Guadiana from Sanlucar de Guadiana in Spain to Alcoutim, Portugal.

Visit the Wild West

In the 1960s, the Tabernas Desert in Almeria, southwest Spain, doubled up as the American Wild West when director Sergio Leone decided to base his trilogy of Spaghetti westerns here. A Fistful of Dollars , The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and For a Few Dollars More paved the way for the region to become one of the most popular filming locations in Spain. Today, you can visit several of the filming locations, and there’s even a Wild West theme park, Mini Hollywood .

Go Bear Spotting

Spain’s brown bears , native to Cantabria in the north of the country, are one of Europe’s most endangered species. There are several companies that offer tours, led by conservationists, who will give you the background on the animals and might even help you spot one in the wild.

Visit the Alhambra

No visit to Spain is complete without visiting the Alhambra , Granada’s Moorish fortress that sits, fairytale-like, on a hill overlooking the city, its backdrop the snowy mountains of the Sierra Nevada. One of Spain’s most-visited tourist sights, the Alhambra is an incredible example of Islamic architecture and art.

Catch a Wave in Northern Spain

Spain’s northern coastline attracts surfers from around the world, eager to ride its impressive waves. It’s a great place to hit the surf, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional. San Sebastian’s Zurriola Beach is a popular spot, but there are lots of towns along the northern coast to choose from.

Visit Europe’s Only Underwater Museum

The Museo Atlántico was opened in early 2017 off the coast of Lanzarote and consists of a huge underwater sculpture park designed by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. You have to scuba dive down to see the sculptures – more than 300 life-size human figures that lie around 12 metres (39 feet) under the surface.

Hit the Slopes

Spain may not be as well-known a winter sports destination as France, Switzerland or Austria, but the country is becoming a popular spot with in-the-know skiers and snowboarders. There are plenty of resorts to choose from, from the Pyrenees in the north to the Sierra Nevada, Europe’s most southerly ski resort, in the south.

Go Stargazing

The Canary Islands have some of the clearest skies in the world and are a great place to do some stargazing. The island of La Palma is home to the Great Canary Telescope, one of the most advanced and biggest telescopes in the world. Whether you’re taking a guided tour of one of the islands’ major observatories or staring up at the stars on a clear night, prepare for out-of-this-world views.

Brave the World’s Scariest Footpath

The Caminito del Rey, near Malaga, was closed in the early 2000s after several people died trying to walk it. The one-metre (three-foot) wide path, opened in 1905, had fallen into disrepair and was closed because of safety concerns, but it was reopened in 2015. It might be safer these days, but it’s still a nail-biting experience looking down 100 metres (328 feet) to the river below.

Witness Spain’s Flour Battle Festival

Every year on December 28, residents of the little town of Ibi in Alicante take part in an epic food fight , flinging flour and eggs over each other on Spain’s version of April Fool’s Day. Men dressed in mock military uniforms stage a fake coup, then fine anyone who does not comply with their range of crazy new laws. At the end of the day, all the money earned goes to a local charity.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in salou, catalonia.

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10 Ultimate Things to Do in Spain with Teenagers

Looking for the top things to do in Spain with teenagers? Read this further and learn about it!

Taking teenagers on a holiday trip may be fun but not easy. Some days, teens want to be left alone, glued to their gadgets, and prefer to stay at the hotel. The best way to engage them is to find fun things to do in Spain with teenagers .

Create an itinerary suited to a teen’s interest and energy. They may be curious about arts and sciences or prefer thrilling activities. Either way, there’s a myriad of destinations that call for adventure. Spain isn’t only about centuries-old landmarks, interactive museums, serene beaches, and fun-filled nightlife.

Take this holiday as a chance to get closer as a family. Head to the beautiful corners of Spain and discover its history, culture, and hidden gems. Never ditch the famous spots, and try exciting activities like a hot air balloon ride, hiking , diving, and much more.

Here are 10 fun things to do in Spain with teenagers.

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Table of Contents

Tours to do with teenagers in Spain

1. spend the day at a museum.

Contrary to people’s perception of museums as boring, Spain’s host of architectural wonders and collection of artworks are truly mesmerizing. Teens can explore interactive museums with excellent facilities, mind-bending science, and history.

Valencia’s Museo de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe is part of the City of Arts and Sciences, an interactive museum with the most interesting structure. Depicting the skeleton of the whale, its architecture is unique worldwide. It’s home to many exhibits featuring the human body, biometrics, nature, and climate change.

Malaga’s Museo Automovilístico houses a private collection of beautifully restored vehicles for teens who fancy cars. Here lies fancy cars like Hispano Suiza, Bentley, Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Mercedes, Ferrari, and others.

🏨 Planning to book your accommodations? Find awesome deals and book your hotels here!

🇪🇸 Don’t know where to buy tours that are worth your money? Book unique experiences here!

2. Ride the Hot Air Balloon

Riding the hot air balloon is among the most fun things to do in Spain with teenagers. Visit the nearby cities Toledo and Segovia for a magical experience going up the sky. See the sunrise while eyeing the city’s main attractions from above.

Get a chance to see spectacular views of the medieval cities and Old Town, complete with a high-definition video and a flight certificate. Some hot air balloon packages also offer Spanish brunch and cava tasting after the flight. The best part is taking home a souvenir photo with the family with a fantastic backdrop.

The cost of the activity varies depending on the tour organizer, but the price ranges from €160 to €200 per person. Travelers can easily find tours online to arrange the activity for the whole family.

3. Discover the Castle on a Hill

Going to Spain is a chance to visit the extravagant and historic palaces that once housed significant individuals or royal families. The Castle on a Hill, or Monasterio y Sitio de El Escorial en Madrid, is a former residence of the King of Spain , located 45 kilometers from Madrid.

Comprising two architectural complexes, the palace functions as a monastery, royal palace , museum, school, and hospital. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site because of its historical and cultural significance.

To date, the palace is a famous tourist attraction, gathering more than 500,000 visitors yearly. Basic admission costs €12 for adults, €6 for children ages 5 years old to 16 years old, and free admission for selected holidays.

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

4. Find the Best Churros in Madrid

Everyone loves food, and Spain’s famed dessert, churros, will probably steal the hearts of young adults and kids at heart. There’s always a reason to munch on these delightful treats, and if you are running out of things to do in Spain with teenagers, head out to get churros.

It would be fun to rate the establishments and discover which serves the best-fried dough. Some places to visit in Madrid are Chocolatería San Ginés, Los Artesanos 1902, La Antigua Churrería, and Chocolat. These places serve traditional teardrop-shaped churros paired with creamy chocolate.

5. Shout, ¡Olé! at a Flamenco Show

Spain is notorious for the exquisite flamenco shows that are not ordinary. The infectious grove, graceful dances, and precise guitar solos are spectacular. Tourists are left in awe after performers graced the stage with a phenomenal show. More than the endless clapping of hands, the audience is left shouting, ¡Olé! after each set.

Visitors can find flamenco shows in almost every region in Spain. Still, Andalucia is known for traditional and authentic shows. Seville, to the exact, has emotionally moving flamenco performances that gather larger crowds daily. Most streets are lined with flamenco bars that offer spectacular shows daily to night.

Watching a flamenco show is among the best things to do in Spain with teenagers. The lively crowd and entertaining show definitely hit differently from a normal concert.

6. Embark on a Tapas Crawl

Since teens aren’t allowed to drink, spending the night in Spain is the best way to embark on a tapas crawl. Start at one restaurant, taste a few tapas, then move to the next establishment. Non- alcoholic beverages l ike calimocho also come with small portions of sides, so this is okay for young adults.

In Spain, teenagers can be seen ordering non-alcoholic Sangria, a famous refreshment for younger people. The calimocho or Kalimotxo in Basque Country is quite similar to the tinto de verano. The only difference is that Coca-Cola is used instead of sparkling lemonade.

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

7. Experience Luxurious Arab Bath

With decades of Moorish rule in Spain, some regions adapt to Arab traditions and culture. One of the remnants of the Muslim influence is Arab baths or hammam in Arabic. The region of Andalucia is notorious for the most luxurious, authentic, and relaxing Arab baths in the whole of Spain.

Experiencing this Arab bath is one thing to do with teenagers in Spain. While bathing in itself isn’t extraordinary, the bath facility is out-of-this-world. The interiors are preserved from the Moorish hammams, which is truly fascinating.

Before leaving Andalucia, take the family to the oldest baths at the foot of the Alhambra. These baths cost around €25 to €64 that come with a massage. The traditional bath experience includes hot and cold water baths, aromatherapy, relaxing massage, and other treatments.

8. Head to the Beach

The country is filled with unspoiled beaches and islands that call for exploration. Ibiza may be famous during peak season or summer, but there are other underrated beaches to visit. From Majorca, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Cies Islands, visitors have a lot to discover.

Spain’s crystal-clear waters, granulated white sand, and crescent-shaped beaches are popular among tourists. Most resorts offer various water sports activities suited for families and big groups. There are also kid-friendly facilities that entertain kids at the Beach.

For teens, activities like surfing and diving are fun and memorable. Spain is home to the most beautiful marine life and diving sites.

9. Dine Standing Up at a Mercado

Thinking of things to do in Spain with teenagers ? There’s always something new to do, even visiting a local market . The country has an impressive Mercado that sells local products like food, clothing, kitchenware, and other interesting finds.

Young adults can taste authentic jamón and other Spanish dishes at Mercado. The best way to dig in is to stop by a corner and dine while standing. The dining halls at local markets are mostly jam-packed with tourists and locals, so eating while standing is common here.

Aside from paella, other dishes to try are pan de cristal con tomate or bread rubbed with tomatoes, cardenal, empanada de cerdo, tortilla de patatas, and a lot more.

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

10. Sign Up for a Cooking Class

From guided tours, flamenco shows, and now to supervised cooking classes, the trip to Spain isn’t complete without learning Spanish cuisine . Cooking classes are popular among tourists, and there are a number of establishments that offer a hands-on culinary experience.

Get a chance to cook the finest dishes like traditional paella, empanadas gallegas, gazpacho, and others. These classes are supervised by a Spanish chef, complete with all the equipment, ingredients, and a tasting party afterward. This is one of the fun things to do in Spain with teenagers, expanding their knowledge of different cultures.

Planning a trip to Spain? Check out these posts!

• Itinerary examples:   10-days in Spain
• How to plan a trip to Spain?   Here’s my guide on how to do it!
• When is the best places to visit Spain?   Here’s my month-by-month guide !
• How much do you need to travel to Spain?  Here’s my Spain budget guide .
• Here are two posts to help you save money:   free things  and  budget-friendly  things to do in Spain.
• Spain Points of Interests:   Surfing Spots ,  Islands to visit ,  Beaches to chill at ,  National Parks to visit ,  UNESCO Sites ,  Camping spots ,  Hiking spots ,  Diving spots ,  Romantic destinations ,  Cities to visit ,  Places to visit ,  Tourist places bucket list ,  Attractions to check out ,  Unique things to do ,  Outdoorsy activities ,  Vacation spots ,  Castle hotels to stay at ,  Must not miss things to do ,  Off the beaten path ,  Unusual things to do ,  Spain at night ,  Adventurous things to do ,  Northern Spain ,  Castles to visit ,  Towns to visit ,  Educational things to do ,  Adventure sports ,  Southern Spain , and  Beautiful hotels
• Spain by Season:  Winter ,  Spring ,  Summer , and  Autumn
• Spain by Months:   January ,  February ,  March ,  April ,  May ,  June ,  July ,  August ,  September ,  October,   November , and  December
• Spain Travel Tips:   Cheapest city to fly into ,  What to avoid in Spain ,  Things you must NOT do in Spain ,  Packing list for Spain ,  Transportation guide ,  Things to know before visiting Spain ,  Basic Spanish Phrases ,  Souvenirs to take home ,  What to do when it rains , and  Travel tips before visiting
• Unique Experiences:   Christmas in Spain ,  Christmas markets ,  Festivals in Spain ,  Road trips to take ,  Beach resorts ,  Solo traveler guide ,  Must-not-miss Points of Interest ,  Must-do experiences ,  Fun activities to do ,  Honeymoon in Spain ,  New years in Spain ,  Easter celebrations ,  Semana Santa ,  Holy Week ,  Easter procession ,  Bucket list ,  Architecture to visit ,  Parades in Spain , and  Party destinations
• Spain Culture Overview:   Tipping guide ,  Famous Food to try ,  Supermarkets to get your groceries ,  Wines to try ,  What is Spain famous for ,  Facts about Spain ,  Culture guide ,  Short history of Spain ,  Traditions to know ,  Foods to try ,  What is Semana Santa ,  Dishes to try ,  Renowned artists , and  Spanish celebrations
• Barcelona Travel Guides:   Things to do ,  Day trips , and  Gothic quarter
• Mallorca Travel Guides:  Things to do  and  Day trips
• Seville Travel Guides:   Seville Easter

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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Spain Tours and Trips for Young Adults

The best Spain trips and tours for young adults. We sell 517 tours and trips in Spain that are suitable for young adults, backed by 503 customer reviews. Whether you are a young solo traveller, a young single traveller or a young group of friends, we hope you can find what you are looking for. If not, please also see our group tours to Spain or request a customized private tour for young travellers to Spain .

523 trips for young adults in Spain

• Starts Madrid, Spain
• Ends Barcelona, Spain

Best of Southern Spain

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='10639'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,099
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 420
• Total Price from: US$ 1,679
• May 25 Only 1 seat left
• May 30 Only 4 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Best of Spain

• Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='3772'>+3 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Transport Train, Bus, Ferry, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,430
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 886
• Total Price from: US$ 3,544
• Apr 27 Only 2 seats left
• May 08 Only 5 seats left

• Starts Arenas De Cabrales, Spain
• Ends Arenas De Cabrales, Spain

Walking the Picos de Europa

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Apr 20 Only 5 seats left

Spanish Wonder

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='20850'>+1 more
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,150
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 440
• Total Price from: US$ 1,710
• Apr 20 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

• Starts Guadalest, Spain
• Ends Guadalest, Spain

Sierra de Aitana Trek

• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Lodge
• Transport Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,948
• Special Deal (11%): - US$ 223
• Total Price from: US$ 1,725
• Apr 21 Only 7 seats left
• Apr 28 Only 6 seats left

• Ends Madrid, Spain

Grand Tour Of Spain

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Sightseeing Tours
• Transport Ferry & Flight
• Age Range 6-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,884
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 115
• Total Price from: US$ 2,769
• May 11 10+ seats left

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Art and architecture & Beach 'data-more-tripid='20914'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,375
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 860
• Total Price from: US$ 3,515
• Apr 19 Only 9 seats left
• Apr 26 10+ seats left

Classic Spain

• Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Pub and bar crawl & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='3766'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Ferry & Taxi
• May 11 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Barcelona, Spain

Best of Northern Spain

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Wine tasting tours 'data-more-tripid='4984'>+1 more
• Transport Bus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,999
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 400
• Total Price from: US$ 1,599
• Apr 13 Only 1 seat left
• Apr 25 Only 5 seats left

Andalusia & Mediterranean Coast With Barcelona

• Activities Art and architecture
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,538
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 231
• Total Price from: US$ 1,307
• May 13 10+ seats left
• May 20 10+ seats left

• Starts Malaga, Spain
• Ends Malaga, Spain

Andalusian Feelings

• Activities Beach & Art and architecture
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,311
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 197
• Total Price from: US$ 1,114
• Jun 12 10+ seats left
• Jun 19 10+ seats left

• Starts Samos, Spain
• Ends Santiago De Compostela, Spain

Camino de Santiago Trek

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Adventure
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,317
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 222
• Total Price from: US$ 2,095
• Apr 27 Only 1 seat left

North Spain Discovery

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Food tours , Beach & Wine tasting tours 'data-more-tripid='3778'>+3 more
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,475
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 619
• Total Price from: US$ 1,856
• Apr 20 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 27 Only 8 seats left

Spanish Ring

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Boat, Bus & Train
• Apr 30 10+ seats left
• May 07 10+ seats left

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Best Things To Do In Barcelona For Young Adults

A young adults guide to barcelona.

Barcelona is a great destination for young adults. It’s got a fun european vibe, it’s full of young people studying in its many universities and international colleges, it attracts young creators that want to work in the Silicon Valley of Spain. There’s the beach, there’s soccer, there’s nightlife, there’s good food and drinks. And a lively cultural and artistic life.

These are the top things to do in Barcelona for young adults

Choose a cool acommodation.

You don’t need to stay in expensive 4 or 5 star hotels, or meh accommodations. Barcelona has a cool offer for affordable places to stay that young people love. Check out the Chick & Basic and the Roomate hotels, for instance. 

The Casa Camper is run by the Camper shoe company and it is fun and trendy. The Hotel Curious is a 1-star that doesn’t look like a 1-star at all. And some of the Urbany hostels even have a rooftop pool!

Best places to visit

There’s 4 basic tourist areas: the Old Town (including La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, el Born and El Raval), the Eixample District with the Gaudi sites, the Hill of Montjuic and the waterfront. The first two are unmissable, and the other two are optional and complementary.

There are several Gaudi sites, but only 4 of them are top-notch: Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia Church. If your budget is tight, don’t hesitate to put all your eggs in one basket: visit only the Sagrada Familia Church . And make sure to buy your tickets in advance because they sell out.

You can see Casa Mila and Casa Batllo from outside whenever you walk down Passeig de Gracia street. And only go to Park Guell if you’ve purchased tickets in advance: since the pandemic started, all the park area is paid and there are no free-of-charge entrances anymore.

It’s hard to choose between Casa Mila and Casa Batllo. If you have budget to visit one of them, trust your gut and go with what your heart tells you.

Where to eat

You have lots of awesome fast food options! Sandwiches from Conesa in Pl. Sant Jaume. Focaccia and salads from the Buenas Migas chain. Ditch McDonalds for the Viena burgers and hot dogs. 

Young Barcelonans head to Verdi Street on the Gracia district for fun and well priced international food (Italian, Middle-Eastern, Asian…). And they go to the Sant Antoni District for brunch. Can Paixano is a great place for fun tapas and cheap sparkling. And Los Maños in Baluard street (Barceloneta) is a really authentic place for affordable fried fish. 

Avoid paella or make sure to save enough for a good one. Good paella is expensive (over €20/person, plus the rest of your meal). And the cheap ones served in touristy bars are often frozen and reheated rice carried by the brand Paellador  or similar (easy to spot as they usually advertize it in large panels with pictures outside the venues).

What are the best guided tours?

You should know that your tour guide will be paying 3 or more euro for each of you to the company they work for. No matter if you tipped or not. Sounds crazy? That’s how it works – do your research if you don’t believe me.

If you want a tour of the Old Town, you are better off taking one of the walking tours organized by the City Council departing daily from the Information Point in Plaça Catalunya. Their set price is similar to what you’d end up paying in a free tour, and the guide is paid for their work time, not the number of people that showed up.

A more attractive way to see the city for young adults, though, is to take a bike tour or a segway tour . There’s many companies offering them, and while they are not allowed anymore to tour the Gothic Quarter, they are a wonderful way to explore the Hill of Montjuic or the Waterfront.

And what about private tours ? If you and your travel mates love art, history and culture and are six or more, you’ll be surprise to discover that you could be able to afford a private tour. Shop around for short walking tours of 1.5 to 2 hours of your favorite site or area.

Who knows? Maybe one of your parents is happy to pay for it to contribute to your education and European experience! You’ll see that there isn’t a classier way to see a city. Plus your guide will be happy to give you plenty of recommendations for the rest of your stay!

Mediterranean party at sea

Nightclubs and bars for young adults.

The night is young in Barcelona. From the exclusivity of the Eclypse Bar in the W Hotel, to the vintage cocktails of El Paraigua, the quirky settings of Tinta Roja or La Fira, the beers of L’Ovella Negra, the views from the rooftop of the Barcelona Raval hotel or the cozy pillows of Salterio, a hippy tea shop open at night in the Jewish Quarter.

Dance the night away in the concerts of Razzmatazz or Apolo, and the clubs of the Olympic Village such as CDLC or Shoko. And since you are there, make sure to check out the unique and freezing atmosphere of the Ice Bar. 

Visit a craft beer factory

Older crowds book tours to the Penedes wine country to visit cava cellars. And while it can be fun, a better plan for young people is to visit a craft beer factory. Birra 08 is a great choice, near the Glories square. Plus after the visit you might want to check the Encants flea market and the Poblenou district famous for its street art, contemporary architecture and young vibes.

Explore the urban culture

Head to Poblenou and stroll around Cristobal Maura, Espronceda, Agricultura, Selva de Mar and Pere IV streets to discover graffiti that will make you feel like you are in Grynwood Walls, Miami.

Relax at the spa

While hotel spas are on the expensive side, there’s one spa that is at your reach and will make you feel rich. Aires de Barcelona is located in a medieval-looking basement of the Born district. It features cold, hot and salted water pools, plus a variety of treatments and massage. Perfect for young couples or groups of friends. Make sure to book in advance.

A day at the theme park

If instead you are looking for strong emotions, Port Aventura World must make your agenda. Just one hour South of Barcelona by train, it’s composed of three different areas. Port Aventura Park is where the action happens: wild roller-coasters, easier rides, shows and parades in the line of Disney and Universal Studios. Port Aventura Caribe Aquatic park is a spectacular water park with slides and all kind of pool rides. And Ferrari Land is the only theme park by the luxury car brand in Europe.

If a day in Port Aventura feel like a bit too match, you might want to consider a more modest alternative. Spend an evening in the Tibidabo Amusement Park in Barcelona. The rides aren’t world-class, but it’s fun enough.

Need an even shorter plan? Try the Gaudi Experience , a 15 minute 3D ride next to Park Guell isnpired in the world of Antoni Gaudi.

Play around

It’s a sort of scavenger game to discover the creepiest spots of the city by following clues. Or register in Geocaching.com to access dozens of quests to find hidden treasures around the city.

Or use Pokemon Go as an excuse to walk around the city capturing pokemon and other fantastic creatures that loom all over Barcelona, invisible to the eyes of those who don’t have the app.

Worship the best soccer team in the world

Everybody knows that the FC Barcelona is the best soccer team in the world. Except that the Real Madrid fans don’t want to accept that, lol. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit their Camp Nou Stadium. See the visitors changing room, the press room, the press booths at the top of the stadium, the grass level, the presidential tribune, the museum with hundreds of trophies and sport artifacts…

If you are in town on a match day, make sure to get tickets. And if they are too expensive or already sold out, find a sports bar where you can watch it on TV surrounded by local followers. A real local experience!

Go out of town for a day

Still have some extra time left? consider going out of town to explore the rest of Catalonia. Most people head to the mountain and monastery of Montserrat because it’s close by. But unless you love hiking or are very catholic you might not find it so exciting. 

Instead, I recommend to young adults to take the fast speed train to Girona and explore this gorgeous medieval town that feels like Italy without the crowds. Plus part of Game of Thrones – Season 6 was filmed there. I knew you’d like this idea.

Would you add anything else to our Guide of Barcelona for Young Adults?

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46 astounding things to do in Madrid with teenagers

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Madrid is one of the best cities in Europe to visit with your teenager. It has much to offer and is perfect for teenagers wanting to explore the world. If you’re looking for things to do in Madrid with teenagers, this article is just what you need.

We will explore some of the best Madrid attractions and activities perfect for teenagers in Madrid. You can also find some tips on where to eat and what to do if you’re on a tight budget.

Get the Go City Madrid Pass

Shopping in madrid with teens, street food in madrid, can i drink tap water in madrid, more travel inspiration for your trip to spain.

Madrid is one of the most beautiful European cities, and it’s perfect for those who want to explore the world with their teenager. You can do many things when visiting Madrid with your teenager, from sightseeing at El Retiro Park to exploring museums to shopping at La Gran Via Street.

Know before you go, our top Madrid travel tips

Travelling to Madrid with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family, and Madrid is one of the top family destinations in Europe. Did you know that Madrid lies 700 meters above sea level?

Travelling to Madrid can be such an enriching experience for the whole family. There are so many things to do in Madrid, and having information on the best places to stay, how to get around, and which currency to use is extremely important. Below is some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation in Madrid.

Best places to stay in Madrid for families

Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When planning a trip to Europe with teens, you’ll never have options for your family’s accommodation in Spain.

In Madrid, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Madrid.

If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Hotellook and Trip Advisor to find the best prices in Madrid for your family vacation to Madrid.

• Luxury: Hotel Urban is one of central Madrid’s best luxury boutique hotels. Hotel Urban has a small rooftop swimming pool and a terrace (opened in summer). The hotels have a Michelin-starred restaurant and a gastro-pub onsite for convenience.
• Mid-Range: Featuring family rooms accommodating up to 4 people, the 3-star Hotel Madrid Gran Via 25 is an amazing choice in the city centre. The hotel serves a buffet breakfast daily and has a café. Bars, restaurants, shops and public transport are within 2 minutes of the hotel.
• Budget: The budget-friendly Ibis Madrid Centro Las Ventas features a café-bar that serves a buffet breakfast, including local dishes. Air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV await you in this popular Madrid neighbourhood.

Madrid apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation on your Spain trip with teenagers in Madrid, an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. Madrid has so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options. You can search VRBO for apartments in Madrid.

If you’re looking for something fancier,  discover Plum Guide’s   exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these truly special accommodations .

How to get to Madrid

Madrid is one of the best family destinations in Europe for family travel with teens. Madrid is Spain’s capital and is connected by highways, long-distance buses, trains, and planes, all bringing people to the city daily.

This makes Madrid one of the easiest family travel destinations in Europe to get to. Madrid is one of the best family destinations in Europe for family travel with teens.

• If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip with teens to Madrid, you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world.  Search now for your lounge pass .
• Have a car waiting and book a transfer from Madrid airport to Madrid central hotels
• If you’re travelling around Spain on a train, consider buying a Eurail Pass for Spain
• Madrid can be reached directly from 47 cities and indirectly anywhere across Europe by bus. Flixbus tickets are available at great prices. Bus travel with teens in Europe can add so many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets to Madrid with Flixbus .
• If you plan a road trip with teenagers in Spain, you can hire a car at any international airport and dealership across Spain and Europe. Book with Rentalcars for the largest options
• Maybe you want to make a trip cross-country? An RV is a great way to travel to Madrid with teens .

How to get around Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s public transport consists of the Madrid Metro (underground), day & night buses, the Metro Ligero (Madrid light rail), and the regional train system known as the Cercanías.

• A single journey on public transport in Madrid will usually cost between 1,50€ and 2€
• You can buy a 10-trip ticket which costs just 12,20€.

Weather in Madrid

As expected, the summer month of July is the hottest in Madrid, with an average temperature of 24.5 °C (76 °F). The temperature can spike into the high 30s, so bring sunscreen, a water bottle and a hat . 

The coldest month is in the middle of winter, where January temperatures average 5.5 °C (42 °F). Teenagers and families looking for sun will find the most daily sunshine hours on 11 August.

The wettest month is April, with an average of 50 mm of rain, so you better pack a travel umbrella and some disposable ponchos .

Madrid for international visitors

International travel to Madrid requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in Spain. Medical care is not cheap; if you want good quality care, it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.

The official currency of Spain is the Euro, If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,

• For International travellers, travel insurance is a must. Get a  quote through Insurance Masters,  and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
• Do you need a visa to visit Madrid? Spain may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
• Load  a Revolut Travel Money card  with Euros for your visit and save on transaction fees
• Make phone calls with an   international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a   virtual e-sim  for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem to pick up at the airport or your hotel. Alternatively,  buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet, or computer.

Where can I take my teenager if they are sick?

Some of Madrid’s recommended hospitals and tourist clinics include Hospital Universitario HM Madrid. This hospital is in the city centre and has a 24-hour emergency department.

It’s important to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies while you’re on holiday in Madrid and to carry any necessary medications or medical information. If you’re unsure where to go or need assistance, contact the local tourist office for help.

Get your device’s digital delivery of the Go City Madrid Pass for easy use. The Go City Madrid Pass offers the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility. Save on admission to top attractions and tours, including the Madrid Royal Palace Tour and the fun Chocolate and Churros Segway Tour.

Multi-entry passes such as this are great for families visiting Madrid. Two types of passes can be bought, ranging from single day to Seven days. See which Go City Madrid Pass suits your family best .

Things to do in Madrid with teenagers

Now that we have covered all of the essential Madrid travel tips for families, here are the best things to do in Madrid with teenagers.

The Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is a magnificent palace home to the Spanish royal family. It is located in the heart of Madrid and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

The palace’s history dates back to the 16th century when it was built as a fortress for the Hapsburgs. It has been remodelled over the years. Today, it features beautiful staterooms, lavish gardens, and an impressive collection of art and furniture.

Visitors can tour the palace independently or with a guide, and some special exhibits and events take place throughout the year. Search a range of options for visiting The Royal Palace with teenagers in Madrid.

The Prado Museum

The Prado Museum in Madrid city centre is one of the world’s most famous art museums. It contains an impressive collection of paintings from the 12th to the 19th centuries, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Rubens.

For the art lover, the museum is a popular tourist destination and one of the best cultural attractions in Madrid with teenagers, attracting over 3 million visitors yearly to the art gallery. Search different options to visit the Prado Museum.

You can also visit the adjacent Thyssen Bornemisza museum, which has over 1000 art pieces.

Madrid hop-on hop-off bus

The Madrid hop-on hop-off bus is always popular with family travellers. A sightseeing bus tour in Madrid is a great way to give you an overview of the city.

The bus route takes you to all the Madrid attractions to see everything from Plaza de España to the Santiago Bernabeu.

This tour bus allows you to get out and visit all the top Madrid attractions and hop back on the next bus when it appears.

Ghost story tours are a popular activity with teens in cities worldwide. They are usually conducted by a guide who tells stories about the ghosts and legends of the area.

The tour guides often dress in period costumes to add to the atmosphere. To make the experience more authentic, the tours usually take place at night, when it is dark and spooky. In Madrid, some of the best tours are The Spanish Inquisition & Legends of Old Madrid , Horror Night Tour in Madrid on Foot and the Ghost of Madrid Outdoor Escape Game.

See more of Spain: All the best things to do in Barcelona with teenagers

Temple of Debod

In the heart of Madrid, there is a surprising and unique attraction, the Temple of Debod. This ancient Egyptian temple was bought by Madrid in 1972 and has been open to the public since then. It is now a popular park and tourist attraction, visited by people from all over the world.

The temple is over 2000 years old and was donated to Spain by the Egyptian government to save it from floods following the construction of the great Aswan Dam.

Nowadays, visitors can walk around the temple and see its impressive architecture up close. Gardens and ponds surround it, making for a peaceful and picturesque spot in the heart of Madrid.

Insider tips: What are the travel essentials for families travelling with teenagers

Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a historical site in Madrid, Spain, popular with tourists. It was built in the 17th century and features beautiful architecture and historic buildings. The plaza is home to some restaurants and bars and is often used for concerts and festivals.

Madrid outdoor activities with teenagers – Retiro Park

Retiro Park is a park in Madrid, Spain. It is the largest park in Madrid and one of the largest parks in Europe. These green spaces are popular in Madrid. This park has a lake, and many people enjoy hiring hire paddle boats on a good day..

The park is a popular recreation area, and people usually visit the park to go boating, rent a paddleboat, or take a walk. Gardens, sculptures, and a Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) also exist.

The Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), built in 1891, is covered with thousands of pieces of crystal, and it has a glass roof, allowing sunlight to enter. The facilities at Retiro Park include outdoor theatres, zoos, concert shells, historical exhibits, restaurants, cafés and more.

Faro de Moncloa

Faro de Moncloa is a tower in the Moncloa-Aravaca district of Madrid, Spain. The tower is 110 meters tall and was built in 1992.

Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy 360-degree views of the city.

On a clear day, visitors can see landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor, and the Cuatro Torres Business Area. The observation deck also has a small exhibition space showcasing the tower’s history and the city of Madrid.

Discover the Best Exhibitions and Shows in Madrid in 2023

Madrid is a city that never fails to surprise visitors in 2023. Explore the exhibitions and shows set to take place in the Spanish capital. Madrid has something to offer everyone, from art to music, sports, and rock stars.

But here’s the catch: these exhibitions and shows are not permanent fixtures. They run for a limited time, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. That’s why planning your trip now and booking tickets in advance is essential. Don’t risk missing out on these exceptional events that will only be around for a limited time so do not miss out.

• Pixar Immersive Exhibition –  Travel through your favourite stories with the largest immersive Pixar exhibition to date, coming to Spain for the first time. The most famous settings from Toy Story, Coco, Up, Finding Nemo, and Inside Out come to life in full size in this magical experience at IFEMA Madrid until April 7.

Watch a football game in Madrid.

There are numerous things to do in Madrid, Spain. Football is one of the most popular sports in the world, and Madrid is home to two of the biggest clubs in Europe, Real Madrid and Athletico Madrid .

The Santiago Bernabeu is the home stadium for Real Madrid, and every season, tickets are in high demand from supporters worldwide.

If you plan on visiting Madrid during football season, get tickets to a game at the Bernabéu stadium – you won’t regret it! The atmosphere at a football game in Madrid is electric, and whether you’re a Real Madrid or Athletico Madrid fan, you’re sure to have a great time.

Football plays a huge part in Spanish culture, so staying near the stadium might be a good idea.

Seeing more of Spain with your teens? Here is exactly what to do in Seville for three days

Guided tour of Bernabéu Stadium

Visit the stadium that has played host to the UEFA Champions League final and is home to one of the most important clubs in the world, Real Madrid.

Explore the venue with a local guide and discover the history and what makes Real Madrid so special to the city’s people. Enter the press room, the players’ tunnel, the trophy room and the dressing rooms to get the full Real Madrid experience. The boys in Madrid love their football.

Parque Warner

Parque Warner Madrid is a theme park located in the municipality of San Martin de la Vega, in the Community of Madrid, Spain. It was opened on July 2, 2002.

The park is themed around movies made by Warner Bros with five main areas, including Hollywood Boulevard and Cartoon Village. It has six roller coasters, the most notable being Superman: The Ride, the world’s second-fastest roller coaster.

There are also several stage shows and water attractions. The park is mainly aimed at teenagers and adults, but a children’s area is called Looney Tunes Village. Book your Parque Warner tickets today.

Cool things to do in Madrid – Parque Warner Beach

The whole family can spend A great day at Warner Beach Madrid water park. Parque Warner Beach is the world’s first Warner Bros-themed water park with slides named after Batman, Wonder Woman and the Joker. There is something for everyone, with a wave pool, lazy river, and waterslides.

Children and teens in Madrid will love the variety of slides to choose from, and parents can relax in the sun on one of the many loungers available.

A children’s play area and food outlets are also on-site for a quick snack or meal. Parque Warner Beach is only open during the warmer months. Check here for tickets and opening dates.

Fun places to go in Madrid – Parque de Atracciones de Madrid

Parque de Atracciones de Madrid is a theme park in Casa de Campo Park in Madrid, Spain. It is a popular destination for Madrid family holidays with teenagers and young adults.

Things for teenagers to do include the excitement and fun of roller coasters such as Abismo and Tornado. Stage shows 2022 at the park include The Walking Dead for Teens and Zombie Escape.

The park also has several restaurants and shops for visitors to enjoy. For families visiting Madrid, there are some great attractions for younger kids and stage shows featuring Spongebob. Reserve your entry today for your Madrid vacation.

Are you looking to save money on attraction entries in Madrid? Why not buy a combined Parque de Atracciones Madrid + Bernabeu Tour and save?

Things to do when it’s raining in Madrid – Museum of Illusions

Madrid’s Museum of Illusions is great for teenagers and adults to have fun. The museum is filled with optical illusions and tricks that fool your eyes.

There are also interactive exhibits that allow you to play around with illusions. The museum is a great place to visit on a rainy day, as it is indoors and full of activities to entertain you.

Ikono Madrid immersive experience

Certainly! Ikono Roma is an immersive art experience that invites visitors to explore a world of colour and creativity. Located in the city centre of Madrid, this interactive exhibit features a series of rooms, each with its unique aesthetic and theme.

The exhibit encourages visitors to touch, play and explore their surroundings, making it a perfect activity for families with children.

The installations are designed to be photographed and shared on social media, allowing visitors to create personal memories and share them with the world.

It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking for something fun and out of the ordinary in Madrid.

Casa de Campo

Casa de Campo Park in Madrid is a great place to visit with teenagers. The park offers a variety of attractions, such as the Madrid Zoo and the Teleferico Cable Car, with stunning views. You can rent a bike, have lunch at the picnic areas, visit the amusement park, and enjoy paddle boat rentals.

There are hiking trails, including the Madrid River Trail along the Manzanares River, with beautiful city views. You will find something for the whole family.

Discover More: Add the stunning Alhambra, Granada, to your Spain trip

Silent Disco in Madrid

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Madrid, look no further than a silent disco tour. You, your family and friends can explore the city while listening and dancing to great tunes on a hi-tech headset in a group environment.

Silent discos are becoming increasingly popular with teenagers in Madrid. They provide a safe and enjoyable environment for young people to enjoy themselves as their inhibitions evaporate, and you have fun on the best all-dancing, all-singing walking tour in town.

You’re guaranteed a great time on a truly fun and unique experience in Madrid. Book your silent disco experience today.

Fun things to do in Madrid for young adults – Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching up with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving without having to go through all the hassle of getting on an aeroplane and going to a place without buildings.

Madrid’s indoor sky diving facility has attracted many teens and families visiting Madrid on vacation. Search for availability and book your indoor skydiving experience.

Rage Rooms in Madrid

Rage rooms are cool things to do in Madrid with teens. These unique spaces provide a safe and exciting outlet for teenagers to smash stuff like glassware and electronics.

It’s an empowering and unconventional experience in a controlled and safe environment. Add a rage room to any Madrid with teens itinerary.

Go-karting in Madrid with teenagers

Madrid’s Carlos Sainz Karting Center is the perfect place for teenagers to have fun. The centre has a go-kart track that is over 700 meters long.

The track is an indoor-outdoor combined circuit with technical sectors and several chicanes. These go-karts are equipped with 270cc and 9,5HP Honda engines reaching up to 45 kilometres per hour.

For families with kids in Madrid, there are karts for little ones 4-8 years old and children between 8 and 14 that have less power. Why not have fun i n Madrid at Carlos Sainz Karting ?

Laser tag – fun activities in Madrid

Laser tag is a fun game that teenagers often enjoy. It’s a good way to get some exercise, and it’s also competitive. Players are typically divided into two teams, each trying to hit the other players with lasers.

Laser Tag is highly popular and one of the fun things to do in Madrid for teenagers, with over 40 different Laser Tag options. Find some Laser Tag fun for you in Madrid .

Expert travel advice: 18 tried and tested tips for successful vacations with teens

Family fun adventures in Madrid – Segway Tour

How do you make the best vacations for teenagers? Segway! There is nothing more fun than zipping around the stunning city of Madrid on a Segway and for teens, this has to be one of the best things to do in Madrid. A Madrid Segway tour is a great opportunity to have fun and learn about the city.

Segway tours are for the whole family, you will be given instructions and a short amount of practice time before you set off on your adventures in Madrid with teenagers. Book a Segway experience in Madrid .

The Madrid Museum of Contemporary Art

The Madrid Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as Museo Reina Sofia, is a must-visit destination for young adults in Madrid.

The museum is located in the heart of the city and is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by famous artists such as Picasso and Dali.

The museum also features temporary art exhibitions and hosts various events and activities throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for young adults looking to explore and experience Madrid’s vibrant contemporary art scene. You will also find several free museums in Madrid to visit.

Have a food experience with a local

How do you make the best teenage family vacations? Food! Some teens cook, and some get served, so why not take a cooking class or eat with a local family on your family vacation to Madrid?

Maybe experience what the locals eat or take different cooking classes in your city. Food plays a big part in local cultures, whether it be cooking it, or eating it . Search and book your Madrid food experience.

Museo de Cera – The Madrid Wax Museum

The Museo de Cera in Madrid is a must-see for teenagers. It’s a wax museum with life-sized replicas of celebrities and historical figures. You will find The Rock, Taylor Swift, Rafael Nadal and more. There are over 450 wax figures that you can take pictures with.

The whole family in Madrid will have lots of fun exploring the wax museum and checking out all the exhibits. A cafe’s also on-site, so you can refuel before exploring Madrid further.

Things to do in Madrid with teenage girls – High Tea

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s often a memorable experience.

If you want something to do with teenage girls in Barcelona, you should experience high tea firsthand. You will find High Tea offered at some places in the city. 

The best High Tea/Afternoon Tea in Madrid can be found at Heritage Hotel’s  Tea Experience .

Mom and daughter activities in Madrid – Exfoliation and Massage

Why not experience a bit of pampering with a full-body massage and body exfoliation at the Bodyna Spa in the 5-star Hotel Hospes Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid?

This great bonding experience includes a 60-minute head-to-toe massage with oriental oils, a 20-minute body exfoliation, tea, bathrobe, and slippers. Book in today, and don’t miss out.

Things to do in Madrid with kids – Scavenger hunt

These activities are sometimes called scavenger, treasure, and mystery hunts. They are games played with an app on your phone where you will discover popular and lesser-known sights of the city as you solve clues and tackle challenges to complete the adventure.

They are a non-traditional sightseeing tour with a purpose: to keep things interesting. Scavenger hunts provide outdoor adventures for teenagers in Madrid. Some of the best hunts in Madrid are The Old Town Scavenger Hunt , The Madrid Treasure Hunt Experience and The Secrets of Madrid.

Madrid Aquarium Zoo

Discover animals and plants from around the world at Zoo Aquarium Madrid. The zoo includes an aquarium that features a variety of marine life. It offers an educational experience, showcasing species of fish, sharks, and other underwater creatures.

Madrid Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from various continents. Visitors can see mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. If you are looking for things to do in Madrid, Spain, with family, the Zoo Aquarium could be an option .

Get Event tickets for Madrid attractions and activities

For concerts, theatre, stage shows and sporting events, search Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster is an online marketplace that provides an outlet for buyers and sellers of tickets to live entertainment events. 

Search Ticketmaster for a special event when you are on vacation in Madrid with teenagers.

The most Instagramable places in Madrid

The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media is important to travel teens, and Instagram is one of the most popular photo apps for teens on holiday.

With Instagram and social media playing a significant part in the lives of travelling teenagers, we have some great places for Instagram photos in Madrid.

We recommend visiting Retiro Park, the Temple of Debod and The Sabatini Gardens for the best Instagram shots in Madrid.

Alternatively, book yourself an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tours in Madrid .

Travel with teens inspiration: The best cities in Europe for families that travel with teenagers .

Professional photoshoot in Madrid

As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them, making family travel memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacation moments with teenagers is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you on your family vacation with teens.

The photographer will supply everything your family needs to provide the smiles for your Madrid with Teenagers photoshoot. Book an unforgettable family travel memory today and secure your family travel photoshoot.

Street Art in Madrid

Street art is found worldwide, but it is especially prevalent in major cities. Cities are home to a wealth of street art , from graffiti on building walls to pieces painted on lanes and bridges.

Street art provides a unique aesthetic for these places, with topics including current events, pop culture, portraits and more. Street art is a popular free thing in Madrid and attracts tourists and teenagers alike.

Street Art in Madrid is mainly found around the areas of Calle de Embajadores (Embajadores), Esto Es Una Plaza (Lavapies) and Calle Lavapies (Lavapies), to name a few. You may be lucky enough to find some street artists at work.

10-Pin Bowling in Madrid with teenagers

If you’re looking for a bit of fun, friendly family competition in Madrid with kids, then 10-pin bowling might be just the family activity in the capital of Spain for you and your teen travellers.

You can go 10-pin bowling in Madrid at some different locations in the city centre, and 10-pin bowling has to be one of the best family-friendly things to do with teenagers in Madrid. 

Most bowling alleys are entertainment centres featuring amusement, food, and drink options. You will find some of the best bowling locations in Madrid below.

• Bowling Chamartín -bowling lanes, pool tables and arcade games at Charmartin Train Station
• City Play – bowling lanes, indoor mini-golf, amusements, bar and more

Accommodation with teens: Why staying in a hostel is good for your travelling teens

Axe Throwing in Madrid with teenagers

There are many Madrid attractions for teens. Axe Throwing is a new phenomenon that is sweeping around the world. Madrid is home to Urban Safari.

No experience is required, as the staff at Urban Safari will run you through the safety precautions before giving tips and hints on how best to throw an axe.

If you are looking for unique experiences for teenagers in Madrid, then axe throwing could be it. Axe Throwing is one of the awesome things to do in Madrid on your family vacation. For more information, click through to Viator for bookings.

Things to do in Madrid with a teenager – Bike riding

Teenager vacations need to be action-packed! Madrid bike riding is a popular family activity when travelling with teenagers. Bike riding allows you to experience your location, either in town or out in the surrounding areas.

Madrid bike tours are the best way to go if you want to get an up-close and personal experience of the city on your holiday with teens.

You will have a tour guide to point out all the important attractions in Madrid or a map to follow. The bike tours will take you on a Madrid family vacation 2-wheeled adventure. Alternatively, you can find locations that hire bikes and let you explore Madrid independently. Plan a Madrid bike tour today.

Family holidays in Madrid – Going to the cinema

Great vacations with teens have a mix of everything! Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world. Going to the cinema in Madrid with teenagers is a great evening activity. You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound to watch the latest blockbusters in Madrid cinemas.

In Madrid, multiplex, Imax, 3D and specialty cinemas show art-house and indie films. A cinema is one of the best places to visit in Madrid at night with teens. Family holidays to Madrid are enjoyable when you include some very day activities. You can use this  Trip Advisor guide  to find the best cinemas in Madrid.

Escape rooms in Madrid for older kids

For those new to Escape rooms, this is a quick run down. An escape room, also known as an escape game, is a physical adventure game in which players solve puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategies to complete the objectives.

Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room or multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot hidden within the rooms. If your travelling teen likes this stuff, it is one of the top things to do in Madrid with teenagers.

Fox Escape Rooms have 3 locations around Madrid offering exciting challenges, such as the Bunker and Zombie Apocalypse. Search for more information, locations, and availability.

Going to the gym in Madrid with young adults

Fitness is very important to many teenagers, and being on a family vacation in Spain is no reason to miss a session. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling does not mean you need to stop working out.

In Madrid, you can go to several Gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month.  You can buy a Madrid fitness pass for gym visits .

See more of the world: All the best things to do in Lisbon with teenagers

Shopping with teenagers in Madrid can be an exciting and challenging experience while on vacation. Teenagers often have unique tastes and preferences regarding fashion and entertainment, making it important to find shopping destinations that cater to their interests. 

On the other hand, shopping can also be an opportunity to bond with teenagers and explore the local culture through fashion and retail. 

If you want to do some serious shopping while in Madrid, the best place to head to is the city’s most popular shopping centre, Principe Pio. It has over 250 stores, so you’ll find something that takes your fancy with brands such as H&M, Levi’s and more.

If boutique shopping is more your thing, head to the Salamanca district, home to some of the most exclusive shops in Madrid. Las Rozas Village is an outdoor shopping centre with over 100 luxury fashion and lifestyle boutiques offering discounts on designer brands. Trendy stores for teenagers in Madrid are everywhere.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, check out Puerta del Sol – there’s a great selection of traditional Spanish items on sale here. Grabbing a memorable souvenir could be one of the best things for young adults to do in Madrid.

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, then head to Calle Fuencarral – it’s known as Madrid’s fashion street and is home to a range of trendy boutiques. If you want a unique shopping experience in Madrid, click here for a local tour.

Europe inspiration: All the best things to do in Rome with teens

Free things to do in Madrid with teens

Madrid offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free city of Madrid activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without spending money.

There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Our recommendations for free activities in Madrid for families are as follows.

• Free views of the city from El Corte Ingles’s rooftop
• See the World’s Oldest Restaurant, Botin opened since 1725
• Visit the el Rastro flea market
• stroll the botanical gardens
• Museo del Prado between 6-8 pm Monday to Saturday for free entry
• Stroll along Gran Via, the main street of Madrid
• Free walking tours
• Visit a local market

Day trips from Madrid with teens

While staying in the city with teenagers on your family holiday may be the easiest option on your family vacation to Madrid, there are some fun trips for teenagers from Madrid to make out of the city, too.

The best vacations for teenagers usually include at least one day trip from Madrid. Below are a couple of day trips from Madrid recommendations for families travelling with teenagers. There are also so many more things to do on your vacation with teenagers when you add a day trip from Madrid.

With an early start and late finish, making a Madrid-Barcelona day trip is possible with a high-speed train time of around 2 hours and 45 minutes between the cities.

Barcelona, with teenagers, is a great city packed with a ton of things that won’t be able to fit in on a day trip. To get the best overview of the sights in the Catalan Capital, we recommend jumping on the Barcelona Hop on hop off bus .

The bus will take you to all the popular sights in Barcelona, like La Rambla, The Bari Gothic area, Barcelonetta Beach, and numerous Gaudi sights, including Sagrada La Familiar and the Barcelona Cable Car. We recommend booking entry tickets for Sagrada la Familia, so you do not miss out on your Barcelona day trip .

Segovia is a beautiful town in the north of Spain, about an hour and a half away from Madrid by train. The town is famous for its magnificent Roman aqueduct, Europe’s largest and most well-preserved Roman aqueduct.

Segovia is also home to several other interesting historical sites, including the Alcázar (a Moorish castle), the Gothic cathedral, and the Casa de la Conquista (the house where Christopher Columbus stayed on his way back from America).

There are plenty of things to see and do in Segovia , so it’s worth taking a day trip from Madrid to visit. The town centre is small enough to walk around, or you can tour the sights by horse-drawn carriage.

If you want to explore more of Spain than Madrid offers, consider taking a day trip to Toledo. Toledo is an ancient city known for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments.

The historic city is just an hour away from the capital by train, and it’s home to some of the country’s most famous attractions, including the Cathedral of Toledo and El Greco Museum.

You can also visit the old Jewish quarter, full of winding streets and charming squares. For teens, a day trip to Toledo can be made all that more enticing by adding some fun on one of Europe’s longest urban zip line s in Toledo.

Toledo has some fantastic glamping options if you want more than a day trip. Camp under the stars in a clear bubble to get the best views

Expert advice: Realistic and helpful ways to save money when travelling with teens

Things to do in Madrid for young adults

For 18 and 19-year-old teens visiting Madrid, it offers many exciting activities and experiences for young adults. With its rich history, remarkable architecture, and vibrant nightlife, there are countless things for young adults to do in Madrid.

Exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor, is a must, providing a glimpse into its regal past. In addition, young adults can take advantage of Madrid’s world-class art scene, visiting renowned museums like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofia Museum, where they can admire masterpieces by famous artists such as Velázquez and Picasso.

Madrid’s culinary scene is another major attraction, with trendy restaurants and tapas bars offering traditional Spanish fare and innovative fusion cuisine. For those seeking evening entertainment, the city comes alive with its vibrant nightlife, boasting an array of clubs, bars , and live music venues that cater to every taste.

From dancing to the latest beats at renowned nightclubs in areas like Chueca and Malasaña to enjoying live performances of flamenco or jazz, Madrid offers something for every young adult seeking an unforgettable night out .

Overall, Madrid effortlessly combines its rich history and cultural heritage with a youthful and cosmopolitan atmosphere, ensuring that young adults will find an endless array of engaging and unforgettable activities in the heart of Spain’s capital city.

Where to eat in Madrid with teenagers

Vacationing with teens must include a brilliant meal to remember the family holiday. Family travel with teenagers is wonderful, and bonding over a meal at the end of the day or during it is a great way to connect with your teen travellers.

Having a meal with family is one of the top things to do in Madrid with teenagers. You will find many dining options for teenagers in Madrid.

Mercado de San Miguel

San Miguel is one of the most famous markets in all of Madrid, it is also very popular with travellers to the city. The great thing about visiting this Madrid food market is the different tapas you can try.

Tapas are a Spanish tradition found throughout the country, especially in Madrid. They are small plates of food shared by a group of people. Some popular tapas to try in Madrid are Bravas (crunchy chunks of fried potatoes doused in brava sauce), grilled Mushrooms and Calamari, to name a few.

Chocolatería San Ginés

One can not go to Madrid without trying chocolate-dipped Churrios. The Chocolatería San Ginés in Madrid is a landmark café famous for its churros and hot chocolate.

The cafe was founded in 1894, and it has been a favourite spot for teenagers and locals ever since with its lively atmosphere.

San Ginés is known for its ice cream and has served up scoops for over 100 years. This popular cafe is open 24 hours a day, so grab some churros and dip them in Chocolate on a family holiday to Madrid.

Street food is popular in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get delicious local food without going to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles and options.

Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, Dan Dan noodles in China, and Shawarma in Middle Eastern countries. Street food in Madrid often originates in the cultural history of people who have immigrated to Spain. Some of the most popular Madrid street foods include:

• Churros con chocolate are long, crispy doughnuts served with a thick hot chocolate dip. They are a popular breakfast or snack food in Madrid.
• Bocadillo de calamares is a sandwich filled with fried squid rings, often served with lemon juice and aioli sauce. It is a popular lunch food in Madrid.
• Tortilla de patatas is a thick omelette made with potatoes and onions. It can be eaten as a main dish or as a snack.
• Croquetas are small, fried balls filled with various ingredients such as ham, cheese, or chicken. They are a popular tapa (appetizer) in Madrid.
• Pinchos are small snacks on top of a slice of bread, usually with a toothpick through the middle to hold them together. There are many varieties of pinchos, with toppings such as ham, cheese, or seafood.
• Bocadillo de jamón – This sandwich is filled with cured ham, often served with tomato and olive oil. It is a popular snack or lunch food in Madrid.

These are just a few of the many delicious street foods to try in Madrid. Don’t be afraid to explore the local markets and street vendors to find your new favourite snack!

Frequently asked questions about Madrid

Madrid is one of Spain’s top destinations for family city breaks, offering an excellent choice for vacationing with teenagers. There are many things to consider when planning your family vacation to Madrid. 

Here is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Madrid to help you make your family vacation to the Spanish Capital easy and hassle-free.

What is the legal drinking age for teenagers in Spain?

The legal minimum age for buying alcohol in Spain is 18

Is Madrid safe for a family vacation?

Madrid, with teenagers, is a very safe city, but tourists can be easy prey for pickpockets. Violent crime as a whole is very low throughout Spain.

How do I call the Police in Madrid?

You can contact the emergency services in Spain by calling the European emergency number (112) on any telephone. When you call 112, the operator diverts you to the relevant emergency service.

Do people speak English in Madrid?

Most people in Madrid’s tourist and business areas now speak English. If the language barrier is a concern, we recommend the Langogo translator.

What type of power plug is used in Spain?

Spain, there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins. Plug type F is the plug that has two round pins with two earth clips on the side.   Buy your travel adaptor for Spain here!

Do you need to tip in Spain?

In Spain, tipping is entirely optional, and it’s not very common. You may see people leaving small change at cafés and bars.

Madrid has some of the best tap water in Spain, if you’re still concerned, you easily buy a filtered water bottle for your teens in Spain to use.

Where are the best places to stay in Madrid for teenagers

At the top of the article, we suggest some accommodation choices for your holiday in Madrid with the kids. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices for your family stay in Madrid, please find below an interactive map from Booking.com to find your perfect stay for your Spain vacation.

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more for your vacation with young adults? Are you unsure what travel companies you can trust to book your family travel online? We have a family travel resource page full of companies that we personally use, trust and book through for all our family vacation trips, from a weekend away to long-term travel with older children worldwide . Click here to search our travel resources page .

If you are going to travel to Europe with teenagers, we hope this article from us here at   Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit Madrid with teenagers. There are so many things for teenagers to do in Madrid that will entertain you for your family’s whole stay in the city.

Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations,  working out a budget , deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials , and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful , and finding the best travel tips is essential. 

 Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

• Travel teens in Australasia
• Travel for Teens in Europe
• Travel with teens in Asia
• Travel for Teens Americas
• Travel teens in the Middle East
• Travel Teens tips, tricks and advice

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in Spain, click our  Spain Destination Guide page  for more brilliant inspiration.

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Author bio:

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

Content Creator

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

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

1. Pueblos Blancos, Andalucia

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

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

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

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

 My favourite highlights…

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

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2. Granada, Andalusia

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

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

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

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

My favourite highlights…

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

3. Seville, Andalusia

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

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

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

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

My favorite highlights…

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

4. Marbella, Costa del Sol

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

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

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

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

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

5. Ronda, Malaga Province

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

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

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

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

My highlights…

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

6. Malaga, Malaga Province

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

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

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

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

7. The Balearic Islands

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

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

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

8. San Sebastian, Basque Country

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

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

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

9. Costa Brava, Catalonia

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

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

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

My must-do highlights…

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

10. Formentera, Balearic islands

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

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

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

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

11. Barcelona, Catalonia

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

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

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

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

12. Valencia, Valencia Region

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

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

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

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

13. Mount Teide, Tenerife

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

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

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

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

14. Picos de Europa

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

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

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

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

15. Zaragoza, Aragon region

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

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

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

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

16. Playa del Silencio, Asturias

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

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

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

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

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

17. Tarragona, Catalonia

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

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

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

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

18. The Pyrénées, the border of France and Spain

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

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

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

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

19. Santiago de Compostela, Galicia region

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

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

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

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

20. Cíes Islands

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

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

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

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

My favourite highlights… 

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

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

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

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

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

After Barcelona, Seville is so interesting!

more please

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

All lovely places! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Spain is always a good idea 🙂

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

Nice pictures! My favourite city is Barcelona. 🙂

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

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

Regards, George M.

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

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

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

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

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

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

your web site in my social networks!

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

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

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

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

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

Fine article. This’s my way of travel

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations, Nice Article. We like it 🙂

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

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

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

hospital emergency room

Spain is so colourful, amazing.

There are some truly stunning places in spain!

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

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

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

The Sierra Nevada mountains in Granada?

Yep. Granada Province…

Love these photos theyre beautiful!

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

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

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

Thanks 🙂 Got to love the amazing mind of Gaudi!

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

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The Best Places to Visit in Spain

By Siobhan Reid

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

Spain contains multitudes—seriously. Spanning 17 autonomous regions and two small enclaves in North Africa, the country is a cradle of diverse cultures, geography, traditions, even languages. And while there’s nothing wrong with a sun-and-sangria holiday, there’s so much more to see and do: embark on a luxury train ride across Spain’s mountainous north, go on a wine and architecture pilgrimage in Rioja, discover the sleepy side of Ibiza, and travel back in time to Andalucía’s Moorish past. The landscapes are just as diverse—from Lanzarote’s lunar lava plains to the lush archipelago of Islas Cíes and the stunning rock formations in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Nature Reserve (Europe’s only desert!).

First-timers typically make a beeline for Madrid and Barcelona , but even then, most people will only scratch the surface of these cities and their surroundings. Just an hour outside Madrid are art-filled medieval castles, mountain hiking trails, a “ beach ” for beating the heat, and even an under-the-radar Picasso museum . Plus, there’s so much to see in Catalonia beyond Barcelona, not least the picturesque coves and charming seaside towns of the Costa Brava . One trip isn’t enough—Spain is a place to discover again and again.

Having a hard time deciding where to go first? Here are 10 trip ideas to get you started.

Madrid: A Feast for the Senses

The Spanish capital is having a moment, with a flurry of hot new restaurants like Tramo and Bao Li , the just-opened Royal Collections Gallery , and a crop of fabulous new and revamped hotels . There’s never been a better time to visit. Regardless of your travel plans, you’ll want to set aside time to stroll around the UNESCO-recognized El Retiro Park, which spans 308 acres of classical gardens, trickling fountains and lakes, and expansive green lawns perfect for beating the summer heat. The park itself is home to a clutch of stellar museums, but nothing compares to the nearby Museo Nacional Del Prado—one of the world’s most important institutions for European painting—or the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, which houses Picasso’s Guernica, among other masterpieces. And don’t sleep on the galleries, either: there has been a wave of recent openings including the Malaga-born Badr el Jundi , the laboratory-like El Chico gallery, and the up-and-coming Arniches 26 .

Stay Here: Set inside a 19 th -century palace in the upscale Salamanca district, Rosewood Villa Magna exudes an air of hushed luxury. Still, it manages to feel very local and stitched into the fabric of the city—its restaurants and seasonal pop-up concepts are just as much of a hit among madrileños as out-of-towners. Don’t leave without enjoying a scalp-tingling treatment in the property’s fabulous new hair spa.

Mallorca: More Than Sun and Sand

By Alexandra Macon

By Hannah Jackson

By Audrey Noble

In recent years, Mallorca has shed its reputation as a package holiday destination and emerged as one of Spain’s most sophisticated hotspots. Now, the Balearic island is synonymous with art and culture, hip hotels, and stellar boutique shopping. Get in step with the island’s rhythms in the capital of Palma, home to indie shops like Arquinesia Perfumes and Cortana , lively bars and restaurants including Brutus and CAV , and one magnificent 14 th -century cathedral—the island’s most recognizable landmark. Learn about Mallorca’s rich craft traditions such as “llata” basket weaving and Ikat textile design by signing up for a workshop on the dada-days platform, or head to the mountain towns of Deià and Sóller to discover locally-made goods and artworks at creative businesses like Earth Core , Datura Studio Isla or the café-cum-ceramic-shop De Moniö .

Stay Here: Mallorca’s new kid on the block is the 14-room Portella Palma , launched by brother-and-sister team Enrique and Inés Miró-Sans of Barcelona’s Casa Bonay fame and designed by Parisian design duo Festen. Once the home of Spanish painter Joaquín Torrents, the 17 th -century palazzo still feels like an artist’s residence, with antique furniture, views of the city’s 11 th -century Arab Baths, and artful details around every corner—from a Joan Miró lithograph to custom pieces by 300-year-old Mallorcan glass company Gordiola.

Fresh Air and Bold Flavor in Asturias

Northern Spain has long been overlooked by tourists, but the mountainous principality of Asturias is (finally) having its moment in the sun. A new high-speed train —20 years in the making—now links Madrid and Asturias, reducing the journey to just over 3 hours. And the capital city, Oviedo, has been named the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2024 for its gastronomic delicacies ( fabada stew, hundreds of regional cheese varieties) and fabulous restaurants like NM by Michelin-feted chef Nacho Manzano, who also runs the region’s legendary two-starred Michelin restaurant Casa Marcial . Beyond being a gastronomic paradise, Asturias is also a haven for outdoorsy types: a third of the region is environmentally protected, making it prime for adventures such as hut-to-hut trekking in the Picos de Europa mountain range (which also straddle Cantabria and Castilla y León). Don’t miss the tiny village of Covadonga—the gateway to the Picos de Europa—which is famed for its dramatic, cliff-hugging Basilica of Nuestra Señora de las Batallas.

Stay Here: The best new addition to the region’s hospitality scene is CoolRooms Palacio de Luces , a restored palace located just outside the charming fishing village of Lastres. Don’t be fooled by its aristocratic interiors—rates start at around $180 per night—and be sure to make reservations at the hotel’s excellent Asturian restaurant, whose dishes spotlight local ingredients like sea urchin caviar and smoked Los Caserinos cheese.

La Rioja: Where Wine Meets Culture

Rioja needs no introduction. Located an hour’s drive south of Bilbao, Spain’s premier wine region is home to more than 500 wineries and is known worldwide for its bold, oaky reds. It’s also a must for architecture lovers, with high-design bodegas dreamed up by Frank Gehry, Santiago Calatrava, and Zaha Hadid. You’ll see the best of the region on a custom tour with the husband-and-wife team behind Rioja Wine Trips . But be sure to discover the gems of the wider La Rioja province, too, including the small medieval hilltop town of Briones, which is home to the excellent Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture (don’t skip the museum’s Garden of Bacchus, where you will find 220 varieties of grapes from around the world). It’s also worth motoring out to the small town of Ezcaray to tour the workshop of century-old, family-run textile brand Mantas Ezcaray, which regularly collaborates with high-fashion brands including Loewe and Hermès.

Stay Here: Iñigo Aragón and Pablo López Navarro are the founders of Madrid’s coveted Casa Josephine interior design and architecture studio. They’re also the proprietors of a five-bedroom guest house in the 200-person village of Sorzano. The Riojan townhouse is straight out of the pages of a design magazine, with an impeccable mix of furniture spanning styles and periods. Ask the owners for their black book of restaurants and bodegas.

Discover Ibiza’s Quiet Side

Most serenity-seekers decamp to the lesser-developed Balearic isles of Formentera and Menorca. But Ibiza also has a quiet side, with pristine secluded beaches, a pastoral countryside, and small inland villages with a bohemian soul that harks back to the island’s hippie past. One of its best-known natural areas is the UNESCO-listed Ses Salines Natural Park, a vast ecological sanctuary with salt flats and roughly 200 species of birds. The island is also known for its dense meadows of water-cleaning Posidonia seagrass, which are among the best preserved in the Mediterranean. The once-sleepy town of Santa Gertrudis is now one of the island’s hotspots, with trendy boutiques like Es Cucons , lively restaurants including an outpost of New York-born Il Buco , and an all-seasons Parra & Romero gallery. Not far from that is the village of Sant Mateu d’Albarca, where you’ll find the farm-to-table restaurant Juntos , which serves vegetable-centric dishes with ingredients sourced from the 173-acre farm. (Don’t leave without perusing ceramics, botanical-dyed robes, and other goodies at the expertly edited on-site boutique). Even the island’s famous party scene has grown up; today, the hardest rope in town is arguably the gastronomic chiringuito Jondal , helmed by El Bulli alum Rafa Zafra.

Stay Here: Founded in 1999 by Barcelona native Margaret Von Korff and her Ibiza-born husband Luis Trigueros, Cas Gasi is one of the island’s original agroturismos . A 19 th -century finca is at the heart of the sprawling estate, which comprises four hectares of fruit orchards and vegetable gardens along with two pools, an open-air-yoga platform, and a revamped spa offering reiki and Ayurvedic massages.

Catalonia Beyond Barcelona

There are a lot of reasons to love Barcelona right now: hip gastro wine bars like Tiberi and Masa Vins , edgy new art spaces like VASTO and Araucària , revamped icons such as the century-old Grand Hotel Central , and big-ticket events such as the forthcoming Louis Vuitton-sponsored America’s Cup yacht race. But there’s so much more to discover outside Catalonia’s capital. In the seaside city of Tarragona, a short train ride away, you can tour a second-century Roman amphitheater and one of the largest and best-preserved circus complexes in the Roman Empire. Closer to Barcelona, the charming town of Sitges has a seafront promenade lined with grand mansions and atmospheric terrazas and is a great jumping-off point for hikes in Garraf Natural Park. Wine lovers should consider a day trip to the Penedès, about 30 miles west of Barcelona, which is the heart of Spain’s cava production. Meanwhile, those wanting to hit the beach should venture north to the famed Costa Brava to discover its picturesque coves and charming coastal towns like Cadaqués and Begur.

Stay Here: The medieval city of Girona is one of Catalonia’s lesser-known gems. The best place to stay? The newly opened Palau Fugit hotel, set inside an 18 th -century palace in the heart of the Barri Velli district. The ground-floor courtyard is always hosting public programming like concerts and art exhibitions, there’s a leafy outdoor courtyard with a heated pool, and one of the 25 suites is set inside an ancient stone watchtower.

Time Travel in Andalucía

Andalucía is a mille-feuille of civilizations and cultures; however, its top attractions are the towering fortresses, monumental mosques, and awe-inspiring palaces constructed during the Moors’ 800-year rule. There are few sites as impressive or as well preserved as Granada’s formidable Alhambra fortress, which contains a series of 13 th to 15 th -century Moorish palaces and gardens, backed by the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Still, you don’t need to endure long ticket lines to step back in history. In Códoba, chef Paco Morale’s two-starred Michelin-starred Noor (“light” in Arabic) borrows inspiration from Andalucía’s layered, overlapping history: currently on offer are a trio of menus inspired by the “Golden Age” of the 16 th and 17 th centuries, with dishes incorporating prized ingredients such as saffron and orange blossom water. In Malaga, the popular El Pimpi restaurant—which streams across an 18 th -century townhouse across from the Roman theater—feels like a time capsule with its wine barrel decoration, bull head taxidermy, and old black-and-white photographs. And it goes without saying that Seville tiene un color especial (or so the song goes…)—just strolling its atmospheric streets is like traveling back in time, but be sure to set aside time to tour the Casa de Pilatos palace, which features some of the most impressive Mudejar-style tile work we’ve ever seen.

Stay Here: Located an hour outside Seville, Caballo de Hierro is a 54,000-acre estate centered on a sprawling country house that’s kitted with antique treasures and embroidered textiles. But the highlight is the turquoise-tile stable housing a team of thoroughbred Spanish and Arab horses, which can be ridden through the property's flower-covered hills.

Beauty and Bounty in the Basque Country

It’s impossible to talk about the Basque Country without mentioning the food. The region is known for its boisterous pintxo bars, cider houses, and more Michelin stars per square meter than almost anywhere else in the world. You could spend days eating your way through Bilbao and San Sebastián, but don’t leave out the many culinary institutions outside the city like the family-run Casa Cámara restaurant in the fishing village of Pasai Donibane, just north of San Sebastián, which uses a pulley to lift shellfish out of the water and into the middle of the dining room. In recent decades, the País Basco has also established a reputation as one of Spain’s most vibrant arts hubs, home to heavy-hitting institutions like the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and contemporary galleries including Galeria Espacio Marzana and Villa Magdalena . Be sure not to miss the Chillida Leku sculpture park dedicated to the Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida.

Stay Here: San Sebastián is packed to the gills with smart city hotels. But for a bit more room to spread out, make the newly revamped Villa Soro —located just a 10-minute walk from Zurriola beach—as your home base. Reopened in 2022 by the Soldevila-Ferrer family, who also own Barcelona’s Hotel Majestic and Mallorca’s Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, the heritage property has refined interiors, original details like a wood-carved staircase, and artwork by famous Basque artists including Eduardo Chillida.

A Design Detour on Lanzarote

No man is an island, but we have the visionary artist César Manrique to thank for the Canarian jewel that is Lanzarote. When others disparaged the island as being the ugliest in the entire archipelago—“nothing but camels and stones”—Manrique marveled at its elemental beauty and rustic simplicity. During the last two decades of his life, he devoted himself to creating gardens, lookouts, and cultural centers while protecting its coastline from the mass development you see on some of the other Canary Isles. His influence is everywhere, from the Timanfaya National Park (where he designed the tourist facilities) to the island’s Museum of Modern Art, the popular Jameos del Agua lava caves, and his former house turned museum. Once you’ve immersed yourself in the world of all things Manrique, discover Lanzarote’s other allures such as its otherworldly vineyards, planted in volcanic ash soil and encircled by low-lying rock walls—the designs are so artful, you might think Manrique had something to do with it.

Stay Here: Set inside the former home of César Manrique’s father, the 20-room César Lanzarote is a singular place to stay. It also has a prized location within La Geria Natural Park, surrounded by the estate’s original vineyards. Still, the most show-stopping feature might be designer Virginia Nieto’s island-inspired interiors—all white and green tones, stone and wood surfaces, and linen fabrics.

Seeing Green in Galicia

You don’t need to hike the Camino de Santiago to discover the wonders of Galicia. The new Costa Verde Express luxury train whisks travelers across Spain’s verdant north, with stops in picturesque Galician towns like Viveiro and Ribadeo and the magnificent capital of Santiago de Compostela, where travelers will have the chance to tour the cathedral and dine at the city’s famed parador , one of the oldest hotels in Spain. Increasingly, travelers are using the waterfront city of Vigo as the jumping-off point for their Galician adventures, whether it’s exploring the villages along the Vigo estuary, hiking to the archaeological remains of Monte do Facho, or exploring the postcard-perfect beaches of Islas Cíes, a 45-minute ferry ride away. And if you find yourself in the fishing village of Corrubedo, be sure to check out David Chipperfield’s Bar do Porto , which serves Galician wines and fresh Atlantic seafood.

Stay Here: A revamped 18 th -century paper factory is the unlikely setting of Galicia’s most sumptuous hotel: the family-run A Quinta da Auga country manor, located a 10-minute drive from Santiago de Compostela. The property’s tranquil riverside setting is complemented by its refined yet homey interiors, sublime spa, and verdant gardens.

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Summer Hitlist: The Best Places To Visit In Spain

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on April 27, 2017 |

Spain is a DREAM of a country for backpackers, with stunning nature, buzzing cities, glorious weather, amazing surf, sociable hostels and all sorts of heavenly cheap food. One of the best things about Spain is that you can travel with relative ease between the towns and cities that scatter this epic country. The sheer number of amazing places to visit in Spain means this country can keep you entertained for months, from the Basque culture in the north, the Arabesque influence in southern Spain to the Catalan culture in and around Barcelona.

So what are you waiting for? Here’s our pick of the best places to visit in Spain, from firm traveller favourites and a few lesser-known gems.

Legend has it that Ronda was split apart by the gods as a result of too much arguing. Thankfully, the locals don’t bicker anymore and are now a downright friendly bunch. A jaw-dropping bridge was built to re-join the two sides of this small mountain city, making Ronda one of the most beautiful places in Spain.

Make sure to stroll around the city’s cobbled streets, take a ramble down below the bridge (an epic place for a shot of the city) and take in the views from the centre of the gorge. To keep costs low, head here by public transport (the tiny town has both a train and bus station) and stay in one of the local hostels in the city itself.

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Perched on the northern coast of Spain, Bilbao is a former industrial city that is fast becoming one of the coolest cities in the north. It’s home to the oh-so-photogenic Guggenheim Museum, rightly one of Spain’s must-see attractions, but that’s not all this arty and laid-back city has to offer. If you’re on a really tight budget and in search of free things to do in Bilbao, check out the Museo de Bellas Artes on a Wednesday (when everyone bags free entry) or free sample your way around Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest indoor market.

For tasty and affordable lunch or dinner options, grab a plateful of Pintxos at Bar Charly or sample the rustic old-school dishes at Rio Oja.

Hostels In Bilbao | Cheap Flights To Bilbao

The capital city of Spain, Madrid, is one of the best cities to visit in Spain on a budget thanks to the awesome hostels, cheap flights and incredible food scene. Madrid is one of those cities you can just wander around aimlessly and stumble upon all kinds of interesting and beautiful things. If you want a bit more structure to your wanderings, check out the majestic Palacio de Cibeles; the Temple of Debod, one of only a few fully constructed ancient Egyptian sites outside of Egypt itself; and the Prado National Museum to see works from the likes of El Greco, Francisco de Goya and Hieronymous Bosch.

For a cheap and authentic bite to eat, hot-step over to Tinto y Tapas for delicious servings of Spanish tapas and bank account-friendly cocktails.

Hostels In Madrid | Cheap Flights To Madrid

4. San Sebastian

Backpackers have recently been making a beeline for San Sebastian, and it’s easy to see why this has become one of the best places to visit in Spain: picture-perfect beaches, reliable surf, foodgasms round every corner and surprisingly good nightlife. Yup, San Sebastian has everything you could want in a city, including gorgeous hostels. (check out  A Room in the City , one of the best hostels in the whole of Europe!)

One of the best things to do in San Sebastian is to go on a ‘pintxos crawl’. Typically, the Basque grab one pintxo (kinda like tapas) in every bar – along with a drink and then move on to the next one for the next pintxo and drink. By the time, you’re done, you’re fed, merry and ready for a fun night out in the city. Be sure to make a pintxo stop at Taberna Dakara Bi, a local favourite and a definite wallet-pleaser.

Hostels In San Sebastian | Cheap Flights To San Sebastian

One of the best places to visit in Spain that will give you a taste of the country’s dazzling Moorish architectural heritage is in Granada, home to the iconic Alhambra Palace. This UNESCO world heritage site is not only breathtakingly beautiful, it’s also one of best places to go in Spain if you need to unwind and relax: the Alhambra’s lush gardens will recharge your soul, and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and their epic hiking trails are just a short bus ride away.

Just make sure you Make sure to book tickets in advance for the iconic Alhambra as daily quotas run out fast, and pack plenty of water if you decide to hike during the intense heat of summer. No one likes a dehydrated hiker!

Hostels In Granada | Cheap Flights To Granada

A party island like no other, Ibiza is an intoxicating mix of all-night raves, world-class DJs and beach-side drinks… but don’t think that’s all this island has to offer. Ibiza has some of the best spots in all of Europe to watch the sunset. Make your way to the cliffs overlooking Es Vedrà (about 30 minutes from the city of Ibiza) with a local bottle of wine and experience one of the best sunsets you’ll ever see. This spot is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain, and although it’s popular, there’s plenty of space for everyone.

Once you’ve had your fill of partying, head north to see a more wholesome side to this stunning island. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in all of Europe for hiking, and you’ll have stunning coves all to yourself. If rambling isn’t your thing, hop over to the Hippy Market to find some local hand made products, cosmetics and quirky gifts.

Hostels In Ibiza | Cheap Flights To Ibiza

Don’t be fooled into thinking Malaga is just an airport city for holiday makers looking for a bit of sun; it’s SO much more than that. Most tourists tend to bypass the city, which is perfect for travellers looking for a historic coastal city to explore away from the crowds. Make sure to visit Castillo de Gibralfaro, Picasso’s house and the ancient Roman theatre that stands pride of place in the centre itself.

For an unpretentious watering hole, scurry across to ZZ Pub, which has become a popular spot for students thanks to its low prices and epic live music nights that draw in a buzzing crowd. With a cool, creative vibe and more and more incredible hostels popping up, Malaga is set to be one of the hottest backpacker destinations of 2017.

Hostels In Malaga | Cheap Flights To Malaga

8. Barcelona

When it comes to tourist attractions in Spain, Barcelona has more than its fair share. And whilst you must experience the crazily beautiful Gaudí architecture that scatters the city (our favourites are Sagrada Família, Parc Güell and Casa Batlló) there are plenty of more off the beaten track places to explore too. Try the Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies, the city’s biggest graffiti park, where you’ll find works by local artists alongside international big hitters. And for all the glory of the Sagrada Família with fewer crowds and better views, check out the Sagrat Cor, located in the hills above the city.

For some yummy and cheap Spanish tapas in Barcelona, head to local favourite Los Toreros, where you can grab some freshly prepped calamari for €5 and a whole bottle of local Spanish wine for €8. It’s the perfect place to keep costs low and still have that authentic tapas experience. Make sure to plan plenty of time into your trip: there’s a reason why Barcelona is the top city to visit in Spain amongst backpackers!

Hostels In Barcelona | Cheap Flights To Barcelona

9. Valencia

For all the fun of Barcelona at a fraction of the cost, head to the port city of Valencia. We’re talking roof top bars, brilliant clubs, great food, and fantastic beaches, not to mention an eclectic mix of architecture. As if that were’t enough, Valencia is the birth place of paella, the ultimate budget-friendly meal to share with new traveller friends.

One way to save money, especially if you’re just in the city for a day or two is to get the Valencia Tourist Card, which covers all your transport costs (even to the airport), free entry to all museums and loads of other attractions, a number of other discounts plus a free tapa and drink – all for just €15 for 24 hours.

Hostels In Valencia | Cheap Flights To Valencia

10. Menorca

Menorca is another one of Spain’s gorgeous island getaways that shouldn’t be discounted as a tourist trap. Arrive in the historic city of Mahon and explore its gorgeous cobbled streets and picturesque charm. For great views of the island, head to the top of Monte Toro, Menorca’s tallest point. And on a hot summer’s day you can’t beat renting a kayak in Es Grau; the crystal clear waters will blow you away.

If you’re looking to (slightly) blow your backpacker budget on something a little special, head Cova d’en Xoroi, a unique bar and club hewn into the cliff face. It’s pricier than many other bars on the island but at €10 entry it’s cheaper than most clubs in London and worth every penny for the breathtaking views.

Hostels In Menorca | Cheap Flights To Menorca

11. Córdoba

Once the Islamic capital of Europe, this Andalusian gem is unlike any other city in Spain. The streets are stepped in thousands of years of history and culture, with much of the centre designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Córdoba’s star attraction is the eminently Instagrammable Great Mosque of Córdoba aka Mezquita, which is reason alone to make a detour here.

Another reason to visit is that this city is one of the hottest, not just in Spain, but in Europe so you’re pretty much guaranteed great weather here.

Hostels In Córdoba | Cheap Flights To Córdoba

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About the Author

Hand Luggage Only is a travel and lifestyle blog run by Lloyd and Yaya, two adventure obsessed friends from London. Follow them on Instagram @handluggageonly for a daily dose of travel inspo.

Got a hot tip for the best places to visit in Spain? Tell us about it in the comments below and you could feature on this list! ?

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