Whether you’ve 10 days in Spain or need to go gradual and regular full immersion, there are a great deal of locations to go to. Diverse and dynamic, every metropolis has its personal tempo of life, its personal traditions, and fiestas.
We have been fortunate sufficient to spend so much of time in Spain and think about ourselves considerably specialists with regards to touring across the nation. There are so many causes to like Spain, however one of many issues we love most is its variety. Whether you need to discover the colourful neighborhoods of Madrid, dive into the structure of the cultural capital of Barcelona, or chill out on the unbelievable seashores of Mallorca, this nation has you coated.
In this text, we’re going to cowl the “popular” locations but additionally a few of our favourite cities that we’d like to return to repeatedly.
1. Madrid
Madrid is considered one of Spain’s most attention-grabbing cities, the place the previous and current coexist. As the Spanish capital, Madrid provides you a glimpse into Spain’s cultural evolution and Spanish historical past, with the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor preserving town’s structure and heritage intact. La Latina and different neighborhoods permit you to see the completely different kinds which have formed town over the centuries, from baroque to modern, alongside the Gran Vía.
Art lovers will discover Madrid’s cultural wealth in its museums, the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, the place you possibly can see works by Spanish artists like Velázquez, Goya, and Picasso. The metropolis’s love of artwork goes past these museums, with theaters, galleries, and road performances all over the place for all tastes. This cultural variety in artwork makes Madrid a singular vacation spot for individuals who love each basic and trendy.
Madrid’s meals tradition is an enormous a part of its allure. Markets like Mercado de San Miguel are the proper place to strive the completely different regional cuisines of Spain, with stalls providing conventional tapas to trendy variations of basic dishes. As the solar units, town comes alive, with cafes, bars, and golf equipment that preserve town going till the morning. Trust us, experiencing Madrid’s nightlife is to get nearer to the Spanish lifestyle, so you’ll get pleasure from it and received’t need to depart.
2. Barcelona
Our first impression of Barcelona was magic. We fell in love with this metropolis at first sight. Barcelona is the capital of the province of Catalunya and is situated on the Mediterranean coast of Spain.
Everywhere we appeared in this metropolis was a feast for our eyes. Colors and structure surrounded us and begged to be explored. As we wandered by means of the hilly, winding streets, we discovered that Barcelona is house to FC Barcelona. Thousands of soccer followers go to the well-known Camp Nou stadium to look at Barça play, however we opted for a distinct tour of the stadium. The finest a part of the tour was working round on the sphere and having fun with the gorgeous views of town from the higher deck.
Barcelona can be recognized for its nightlife, with bars and golf equipment that play music till the wee hours of the morning. If you’re seeking to occasion, that is town for you! But, amidst all of the nightlife, Gaudí’s structure is ready to be admired.
We visited La Sagrada Familia, probably the most well-known landmark in Barcelona, and splurged on fast-track tickets so we may beat the warmth and revel in this wonderful basilica earlier than the solar bought too excessive. We wandered by means of the detailed and exquisite inside, gazing up on the gorgeous home windows and hovering ceilings. What an inspiration to see such magnificence in and out. If you’re brief on time, we suggest buying a Hop on Hop off bus tour ticket. This is an effective way to see the principle sights in Barcelona at your individual tempo. We used our hop on hop off bus tickets to discover Park Güell, the Gothic Quarter, and Barceloneta Beach. Each of those sights supplied gorgeous views of town.
We liked each second of our time in Barcelona and loved exploring the hilly streets and wandering round this lovely metropolis.
3. Seville
Seville is the third largest metropolis in Spain and the capital of Andalusia. It’s often known as the birthplace of flamenco dancing, and we wished to expertise it ourselves. We headed to the Triana neighborhood, the place flamenco dance and music are woven into on a regular basis life.
We wandered the colourful streets and got here throughout a small tablao the place we stopped for lunch and a present. The older lady who sang had a robust voice, and the youthful lady’s footwork was unbelievable. We watched in awe because the dancers instructed tales with their legs and arms.
After lunch, we walked to the Alcázar Castle complicated. It was constructed by the Moorish Almohad dynasty and is a masterpiece of mudéjar structure. The complicated is big and consists of the palace, gardens and a cathedral.
From there, we walked to Seville’s Gothic cathedral, the biggest Gothic church in the world. The tower, El Girnal, was constructed by Moorish architects and affords gorgeous views of town. The cathedral was constructed on the ruins of a Moorish mosque, and lots of the stones have been reused. It’s a powerful construction and a must-see when visiting Seville. Then it was on to the Plaza de España.
In the night, be sure to hit up one of many many conventional tapas bars earlier than heading out for dinner. You received’t remorse visiting this metropolis in southern Spain.
4. Bilbao
Located in the north of Spain in the gorgeous Basque Country, Bilbao is a metropolis the place custom meets modernity. Famous for its structure, Bilbao has the Guggenheim Museum, one of the crucial spectacular landmarks in the world, a contemporary masterpiece that’s the metropolis itself. The titanium and futuristic design is mesmerizing, attracting artwork lovers and structure followers from everywhere in the world.
But Bilbao’s structure doesn’t cease on the Guggenheim. The Bilbao Cathedral is a must-see, with its Gothic towers and complex element. The outdated city is a pleasure to get misplaced in, with slim streets giving option to energetic squares and hidden treasures round each nook.
Bilbao can be cultural. The metropolis has many museums, galleries, and landmarks, every one revealing a distinct facet of town’s previous and current. Fine Arts Museum, Maritime Museum, and extra are to not be missed.
And then, after all, there’s the meals. Bilbao is legendary for its Basque delicacies, and pintxos (these little snacks) are a should. Enjoy them with a glass of native wine for an additional bonus. Seafood lovers are in for a deal with, with town’s coastal location, which suggests the freshest seafood round.
5. Valencia
Located on the gorgeous Mediterranean coast, Valencia is an enthralling metropolis that is filled with Spanish tradition and artistry. With its worldwide airport, Valencia is an ideal gateway to different European locations in addition to the remainder of Spain.
Known because the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia options trendy structure that’s not like anyplace else in Spain. The oceanarium and planetarium are simply two of the futuristic buildings which can be certain to fascinate youngsters. The interactive museum is an effective way to spend the day, with one thing for everybody to get pleasure from. Valencia additionally affords family-friendly sights, together with a theme park, making it an important vacation spot for households.
But, in truth, Valencia is all concerning the seashore. The metropolis has a number of seashores which can be good for absorbing the solar. While summer season is the height vacationer season, the climate in autumn remains to be heat and excellent for the seashore. Valencia is a type of cities the place you possibly can simply wander the seashore or discover the cultural sights. With its lovely structure and scrumptious delicacies, Valencia is a metropolis that celebrates life.
6. Granada
Granada is a sleepy metropolis that charms the soul. It’s the proper vacation spot for vacationers who want to decelerate and benefit from the easy issues in life. The views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains are second to none.
Granada is an ideal vacation spot for a day journey from the coast. Hiking on the mild slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains is unquestionably a must-do. We liked the views of the encircling space, and the hikes weren’t too troublesome both.
After a day of exploring the mountains, returning to town for a siesta is important. Waking up in the afternoon and strolling by means of the slim streets of the Albaicín neighborhood is the proper option to spend the afternoon, then it’s time for a chilly beer and tapas to kick off the night.
The Booga Club is the place the events are in Granada. Live music filters by means of the streets each evening. Or, you possibly can come upon a cave restaurant that includes reside Flamenco. Because why not?
Visiting the Alhambra Complex is a must-do in Granada. The Generalife Gardens are pure magic. The Alcazaba, the final remaining fortress of the Islamic period, is spectacular. Don’t miss it.
7. Salamanca
Salamanca is a gem tucked away in the guts of Spain. This charming metropolis is an ideal mix of historical past, gorgeous structure, and vibrant vitality. Salamanca is house to considered one of Europe’s oldest universities, the University of Salamanca, which has been illuminating minds since 1218. The golden sandstone buildings, particularly the gorgeous Plaza Mayor and the detailed college façades, are breathtaking. The whole metropolis is a stupendous murals, and wandering the streets is a should. Salamanca is an ideal instance of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque kinds all meshing collectively seamlessly.
But Salamanca shouldn’t be all about historical past. The metropolis has an important cultural vibe because of its younger college inhabitants. There are loads of cafes, bars, and festivals to maintain anybody younger at coronary heart joyful. The principal Plaza Mayor is stuffed with tasty tapas, eating places, and bars and is a hub of exercise. We stumbled upon a standard castanuelo (a Salamanca competition) whereas we have been there, and it was wonderful. The metropolis is filled with life and vitality, and the persons are very conventional. It’s an important mix of outdated and new.
The metropolis can be very walkable. The New and Old Cathedrals, the Roman Bridge, and the picturesque Casa de las Conchas are all shut to one another and to the principle plaza. We didn’t want a automobile in Salamanca, and it’s undoubtedly a metropolis that’s finest explored on foot. With its good location, wealthy tradition, and gorgeous views, Salamanca must be on the prime of your listing of locations to go to in Spain.
8. Toledo
While massive cities like Barcelona and Madrid get all the eye, little cities like Toledo are the true treasures of Spain. Perched on a hill, Toledo overlooks the flat plains of Castilla-La Mancha, rural Spain.
This walled metropolis is filled with historical past and tradition, with Arab, Jewish, and Christian influences evident in its monuments and statues. Toledo is filled with surprises and undoubtedly deserves a go to.
Two of Toledo’s most well-known gates are the gorgeous Sol Gate and the Moorish Bisagra Gate. The Sol Gate is situated in the outdated quarter and is near the bustling Plaza de Zocodover. If you’d fairly escape the massive metropolis then discover it then Toledo is a superb begin.
9. Malaga
Málaga is considered one of Spain’s finest cities due to its coastal allure, historical past, and modernity. Situated on the Costa del Sol, it has gorgeous Mediterranean views and among the finest seashores in the nation. The delicate year-round local weather means you possibly can get pleasure from out of doors actions, from sunbathing to water sports activities.
The metropolis additionally has a wealthy historical past courting again to its Phoenician settlement days. Landmarks just like the Alcazaba a nicely preserved Moorish fortress and the Roman Theatre showcase its cultural variety. Málaga can be the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and you may go to his life and work on the Picasso Museum.
Modern Málaga provides to its historic allure with a meals and artwork scene. Muelle Uno, the revamped port space, has stylish outlets and eating places, and the outdated city has conventional tapas, bars, and bustling markets. Plus, it’s a heat welcome and easy accessibility to different Andalusian hotspots. Málaga has all of it.
Additionally, the Spanish islands, such because the Canary Islands, supply scenic shorelines and journey alternatives, making them one other prime coastal vacation spot.
10. Córdoba
Córdoba is considered one of Spain’s prime cities for its unbelievable historic and architectural heritage. At the guts of town is the Mezquita, a former mosque turned cathedral well-known for its forest of arches and columns. Wander by means of the outdated city, and also you’ll discover slim streets with whitewashed homes and flower-filled patios, a glimpse into the Moorish previous.
This Spanish metropolis can be well-known for its cultural festivals. The Patio Festival in spring exhibits off the patios of Córdoba, which the locals adorn with flowers. Flamenco and native meals add to the occasion ambiance; it’s a good time to go to.
You can stroll round Córdoba; it’s sufficiently small to get to know its allure. The Roman Bridge and the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs are inside strolling distance. It has historical past, tradition, and ambiance, a must-see in Southern Spain.
11. Girona
Tucked away in northern Spain, Girona is an enthralling metropolis steeped in historical past and tradition. Winding your approach by means of its slim streets is a should, because the medieval structure is a testomony to its wealthy previous. Girona Cathedral dominates the skyline, whereas the outdated metropolis partitions and Arab wards whisper secrets and techniques from years passed by.
The Jewish Quarter is considered one of Europe’s finest preserved and is unquestionably value a stroll. The historical past in this metropolis is palpable and provides to Girona’s allure.
The city of Girona shouldn’t be solely fairly, nevertheless it’s additionally cultural. The metropolis comes alive throughout festivals, and its meals scene is to not be missed. The flower competition, Temps de Flors, is a spotlight, and it’s lovely to walk by means of the streets and admire the decorations. And then there’s the meals. Girona is house to one of many world’s finest eating places, El Celler de Can Roca. This three-Michelin-starred gem is a should for meals lovers. The sister’s wine cellar is unbelievable, and the chef’s expertise is clear in each scrumptious dish. If you’re in search of a extra laid-back meal, strive 2 Michelin-starred La Trencada, a stupendous trendy restaurant with a give attention to native produce, or Els Moats, a comfortable restaurant well-known for its pancakes. Girona is a gem and undoubtedly value a go to.
Girona is a superb base from which to discover the native space. The gorgeous Costa Brava is only a brief drive away, and its lovely seashores and coastal cities are good for enjoyable in the solar. The transportation community can be actually good, making it straightforward to make day journeys to close by cities and websites like Barcelona and Figueres.
12. Cuenca
Perched in the war-torn area of Castile, Cuenca is a metropolis of dramatic magnificence and wealthy historical past. Perhaps its most well-known landmark, the Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses, seem like hanging off the facet of the cliff as they stretch out over the Huécar River gorge. The rustic, wood balconies creak in the wind, and it’s straightforward to think about the women of the home, shawls wrapped tightly round their heads, peering out on the breathtaking view beneath.
The homes are medieval and spectacular, and it’s not laborious to think about the lives of the individuals who lived in them. Women washing dishes in the slim home windows, kids taking part in in the steep, creaky staircases, and {couples} dancing in the small, stone rooms.
But it’s not the buildings that make Cuenca particular; it’s the dramatic location. The metropolis is located between the winding Júcar and Huécar rivers, and the surroundings is dramatic and exquisite. For a panoramic view of town, cross the San Pablo Bridge, an iron lattice bridge that was constructed in 1969 to interchange the unique, a rickety suspension bridge.
13. Alicante
During that very same street journey by means of central Spain the place we noticed the Colgadas, we stopped on the seashore metropolis of Alicante.
Filled with strolling streets and markets, scrumptious eating places and nightlife, it was an incredible Spanish trip. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is probably the most distinguished website to see when visiting this energetic metropolis.
14. Pamplona
Home to the San Fermin Festival, Pamplona is legendary for working the bulls, however there are many issues to do in addition to collaborating in the controversial competition.
There are magnificent metropolis partitions courting again to Roman instances, in addition to the beautiful strolling streets and meals scenes; it’s an unbelievable metropolis park, and the Plaza del Castillo makes it a worthwhile cease in your route into Basque nation.
It can be a significant cease on the Camino de Santiago. That pilgrimage is excessive on our listing of must-do issues! Did you already know that Santiago de Compostela is the ultimate cease on the Camino?
15. San Sebastian
Located only a brief drive from Pamplona is the beautiful coastal metropolis of San Sebastian. After the San Fermin Festival, we took a break at San Sebastián to eat loads of Pinchos.
Located on the ocean, this metropolis in the Basque Country is understood for its meals. It additionally has an unbelievable seashore.
16. Marbella
Located on Spain’s sun-drenched coast, Marbella is a treasure of a vacation spot that seamlessly blends historical past and trendy luxurious. Wandering by means of the white-washed homes and cobblestone streets of the charming Old Town is like stepping again in time. The slim alleys and conventional Andalusian structure are quintessential Marbella, and quaint outlets and alluring cafes are ready to be found round each nook.
But Marbella shouldn’t be a city caught in the previous; it’s a vibrant coastal vacation spot. The Golden Mile, which connects Marbella to Puerto Banús, is house to luxurious resorts, world-class eating places, and unique seashore golf equipment. This energetic space is ideal for these in search of a mixture of leisure and pleasure, with glowing seashores and energetic nightlife.
The seashores alongside the Golden Mile are among the prettiest in the realm, with vivid blue waters and golden sand. And when the solar goes down, the occasion actually will get began, with bars and golf equipment staying open till the early hours of the morning.
17. Tossa De Mar
Tossa De Mar is a stupendous metropolis in Costa Brava with a medieval fort overlooking the ocean and metropolis. There is a medieval village that’s lovely, and you may stroll by means of the cobblestone streets. There can be a unbelievable seashore.
Costa Brava is among the most lovely areas in Spain, and an effective way to see it’s on the water. If you need to style Costa Brava however don’t have time to go to Girona, ebook a kayak and snorkeling tour.
Getting Around Spain
Travel in Spain may be very straightforward. All the most important cities and cities are related by rail, and even lots of the smaller villages are too. You can journey cheaply and simply all through Spain by practice alone.
What’s extra, it’s attainable to ebook your practice tickets on-line earlier than you even depart house.
Car leases in Spain
Travelers who want to discover as a lot of Spain as they presumably can could need to rent a automobile in the course of their keep. We have an entire video devoted to How To Rent a Car in Spain.
If you’re over the age of 21 and have a driver’s license, then hiring a automobile is hassle-free and may work out cheaper than practice journey in the long term.
If you select to rent a automobile, it may possibly simply be organized for the hiring firm to convey your automobile to the airport to satisfy you so you possibly can hit the bottom working…or, fairly, drive!
Remember to test whether or not your automobile wants diesel or petrol, or else you’ll have a nightmare in your fingers!
Click right here to look all of the automobile rental companies and get the perfect value to your trip in Spain.
Bus Travel in Spain
Bus journey can be an important choice in Spain. For instance, a bus from Madrid to Granada takes simply 4 brief hours and runs two or 3 times every day, extra steadily in the excessive season.
Buses are low-cost and cheerful, and they’re a pleasant option to see the Spanish countryside sprawling away from exterior your window. Rest assured, buses in Spain do take breaks for meals and bathroom stops. No must strategically dehydrate to your lengthy journey right here!
Spain is a vivid and welcoming place stuffed with passionate and caring people who find themselves solely too joyful to accommodate vacationers and vacationers.
Learning a bit of of the language can take you a very long time, and even in the event you make errors, Spanish individuals all the time admire the hassle.