Whether or not you will have 10 days in Spain or need to go sluggish and regular full immersion, there are a great deal of locations to go to. Various and dynamic, every metropolis has its personal tempo of life, its personal traditions, and fiestas.
We’ve got been fortunate sufficient to spend so much of time in Spain and take into account ourselves considerably consultants in the case of touring across the nation. There are such a lot of causes to like Spain, however one of many issues we love most is its range. Whether or not you need to discover the colourful neighborhoods of Madrid, dive into the structure of the cultural capital of Barcelona, or loosen up on the unbelievable seashores of Mallorca, this nation has you coated.
On this article, we’re going to cowl the “standard” locations but additionally a few of our favourite cities that we’d like to return to many times.
1. Madrid
Madrid is one among Spain’s most fascinating cities, the place the previous and current coexist. Because the Spanish capital, Madrid offers you a glimpse into Spain’s cultural evolution and Spanish historical past, with the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor conserving the town’s structure and heritage intact. La Latina and different neighborhoods can help you see the totally different types which have formed the town over the centuries, from baroque to modern, alongside the Gran Vía.
Artwork lovers will discover Madrid’s cultural wealth in its museums, the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, the place you may see works by Spanish artists like Velázquez, Goya, and Picasso. Town’s love of artwork goes past these museums, with theaters, galleries, and road performances all over the place for all tastes. This cultural range in artwork makes Madrid a singular vacation spot for individuals who love each basic and fashionable.
Madrid’s meals tradition is a giant a part of its allure. Markets like Mercado de San Miguel are the right place to strive the totally different regional cuisines of Spain, with stalls providing conventional tapas to fashionable variations of basic dishes. Because the solar units, the town comes alive, with cafes, bars, and golf equipment that preserve the town going till the morning. Belief us, experiencing Madrid’s nightlife is to get nearer to the Spanish lifestyle, so you’ll take pleasure in it and gained’t need to go away.
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.
In all places we regarded on this metropolis was a feast for our eyes. Colours and structure surrounded us and begged to be explored. As we wandered via the hilly, winding streets, we discovered that Barcelona is house to FC Barcelona. Hundreds of soccer followers go to the well-known Camp Nou stadium to observe Barça play, however we opted for a unique tour of the stadium. One of the best a part of the tour was operating round on the sphere and having fun with the gorgeous views of the town from the higher deck.
Barcelona can be identified for its nightlife, with bars and golf equipment that play music till the wee hours of the morning. In the event you’re seeking to occasion, that is the town for you! However, 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 might beat the warmth and revel in this superb basilica earlier than the solar acquired too excessive. We wandered via the detailed and exquisite inside, gazing up on the gorgeous home windows and hovering ceilings. What an inspiration to see such magnificence inside and outside. In the event you’re brief on time, we suggest buying a Hop on Hop off bus tour ticket. It is a nice solution to see the primary 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 Seaside. Every of those sights provided gorgeous views of the 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 generally 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 informed tales with their legs and arms.
After lunch, we walked to the Alcázar Fortress advanced. It was constructed by the Moorish Almohad dynasty and is a masterpiece of mudéjar structure. The advanced is large and contains the palace, gardens and a cathedral.
From there, we walked to Seville’s Gothic cathedral, the biggest Gothic church on the earth. The tower, El Girnal, was constructed by Moorish architects and affords gorgeous views of the town. The cathedral was constructed on the ruins of a Moorish mosque, and most 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.
Within the night, make sure that to hit up one of many many conventional tapas bars earlier than heading out for dinner. You gained’t remorse visiting this metropolis in southern Spain.
4. Bilbao
Situated within the north of Spain within the lovely Basque Nation, Bilbao is a metropolis the place custom meets modernity. Well-known for its structure, Bilbao has the Guggenheim Museum, probably the most spectacular landmarks on the earth, a contemporary masterpiece that’s the metropolis itself. The titanium and futuristic design is mesmerizing, attracting artwork lovers and structure followers from all around the world.
However Bilbao’s structure doesn’t cease on the Guggenheim. The Bilbao Cathedral is a must-see, with its Gothic towers and complex element. The previous city is a pleasure to get misplaced in, with slim streets giving solution to energetic squares and hidden treasures round each nook.
Bilbao can be cultural. Town has many museums, galleries, and landmarks, each revealing a unique aspect of the town’s previous and current. Effective Arts Museum, Maritime Museum, and extra are to not be missed.
After which, after all, there’s the meals. Bilbao is known for its Basque delicacies, and pintxos (these little snacks) are a should. Take pleasure in them with a glass of native wine for an additional bonus. Seafood lovers are in for a deal with, with the town’s coastal location, which suggests the freshest seafood round.
5. Valencia
Situated on the attractive Mediterranean coast, Valencia is a captivating 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.
Often known as the Metropolis of Arts and Sciences, Valencia options fashionable structure that’s not like wherever else in Spain. The oceanarium and planetarium are simply two of the futuristic buildings which might be positive to fascinate children. The interactive museum is a good way to spend the day, with one thing for everybody to take pleasure in. Valencia additionally affords family-friendly sights, together with a theme park, making it a fantastic vacation spot for households.
However, in truth, Valencia is all concerning the seashore. Town has a number of seashores which might be good for absorbing the solar. Whereas summer season is the height vacationer season, the climate in autumn remains to be heat and ideal for the seashore. Valencia is a type of cities the place you may 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 right vacation spot for vacationers who need 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. Mountain climbing on the light 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 tough both.
After a day of exploring the mountains, returning to the town for a siesta is important. Waking up within the afternoon and strolling via the slim streets of the Albaicín neighborhood is the right solution to spend the afternoon, then it’s time for a chilly beer and tapas to kick off the night.
The Booga Membership is the place the events are in Granada. Dwell music filters via the streets each night time. Or, you can encounter a cave restaurant that includes dwell Flamenco. As a result of 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 within the coronary heart of Spain. This charming metropolis is an ideal mix of historical past, gorgeous structure, and vibrant power. Salamanca is house to one among Europe’s oldest universities, the College 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. Your entire metropolis is a gorgeous murals, and wandering the streets is a should. Salamanca is an ideal instance of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque types all meshing collectively seamlessly.
However Salamanca just isn’t all about historical past. Town has a fantastic cultural vibe due to its younger college inhabitants. There are many cafes, bars, and festivals to maintain anybody younger at coronary heart glad. The primary Plaza Mayor is crammed 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 superb. Town is filled with life and power, and the individuals are very conventional. It’s a fantastic mix of previous and new.
Town can be very walkable. The New and Outdated Cathedrals, the Roman Bridge, and the picturesque Casa de las Conchas are all shut to one another and to the primary plaza. We didn’t want a automobile in Salamanca, and it’s positively a metropolis that’s finest explored on foot. With its good location, wealthy tradition, and gorgeous views, Salamanca needs to be on the prime of your record of locations to go to in Spain.
8. Toledo
Whereas large cities like Barcelona and Madrid get all the eye, little cities like Toledo are the actual 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 positively deserves a go to.
Two of Toledo’s most well-known gates are the attractive Sol Gate and the Moorish Bisagra Gate. The Sol Gate is situated within the previous quarter and is near the bustling Plaza de Zocodover. In the event you would fairly escape the large metropolis then discover it then Toledo is a good begin.
9. Malaga
Málaga is one among Spain’s finest cities due to its coastal allure, historical past, and modernity. Located on the Costa del Sol, it has gorgeous Mediterranean views and a few of the finest seashores within the nation. The delicate year-round local weather means you may take pleasure in out of doors actions, from sunbathing to water sports activities.
Town additionally has a wealthy historical past courting again to its Phoenician settlement days. Landmarks just like the Alcazaba a properly preserved Moorish fortress and the Roman Theatre exhibit its cultural range. Málaga can be the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and you’ll go to his life and work on the Picasso Museum.
Trendy Málaga provides to its historic allure with a meals and artwork scene. Muelle Uno, the revamped port space, has fashionable retailers and eating places, and the previous 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.
Moreover, 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 one among Spain’s prime cities for its unbelievable historic and architectural heritage. On the coronary heart of the town is the Mezquita, a former mosque turned cathedral well-known for its forest of arches and columns. Wander via the previous 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 Competition in spring exhibits off the patios of Córdoba, which the locals enhance with flowers. Flamenco and native meals add to the occasion environment; it’s a good time to go to.
You possibly 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 environment, a must-see in Southern Spain.
11. Girona
Tucked away in northern Spain, Girona is a captivating metropolis steeped in historical past and tradition. Winding your manner via its slim streets is a should, because the medieval structure is a testomony to its wealthy previous. Girona Cathedral dominates the skyline, whereas the previous metropolis partitions and Arab wards whisper secrets and techniques from years passed by.
The Jewish Quarter is one among Europe’s finest preserved and is unquestionably price a stroll. The historical past on this metropolis is palpable and provides to Girona’s allure.
The town of Girona just isn’t solely fairly, but it surely’s additionally cultural. Town 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 via the streets and admire the decorations. After which 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. In the event you’re on the lookout for a extra laid-back meal, strive 2 Michelin-starred La Trencada, a gorgeous fashionable restaurant with a deal with native produce, or Els Moats, a comfortable restaurant well-known for its pancakes. Girona is a gem and positively price a go to.
Girona is a good 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 within the solar. The transportation community can be actually good, making it simple to make day journeys to close by cities and websites like Barcelona and Figueres.
12. Cuenca
Perched within the war-torn area of Castile, Cuenca is a metropolis of dramatic magnificence and wealthy historical past. Maybe its most well-known landmark, the Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Homes, seem like hanging off the aspect of the cliff as they stretch out over the Huécar River gorge. The country, picket balconies creak within the wind, and it’s simple to think about the women of the home, shawls wrapped tightly round their heads, peering out on the breathtaking view under.
The homes are medieval and spectacular, and it’s not exhausting to think about the lives of the individuals who lived in them. Girls washing dishes within the slim home windows, kids taking part in within the steep, creaky staircases, and {couples} dancing within the small, stone rooms.
Nevertheless it’s not the buildings that make Cuenca particular; it’s the dramatic location. Town is located between the winding Júcar and Huécar rivers, and the surroundings is dramatic and exquisite. For a panoramic view of the town, cross the San Pablo Bridge, an iron lattice bridge that was inbuilt 1969 to interchange the unique, a rickety suspension bridge.
13. Alicante
Throughout that very same highway journey via central Spain the place we noticed the Colgadas, we stopped on the seashore metropolis of Alicante.
Full of strolling streets and markets, scrumptious eating places and nightlife, it was an incredible Spanish trip. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is probably the most outstanding web site to see when visiting this energetic metropolis.
14. Pamplona
Residence to the San Fermin Competition, Pamplona is known for operating the bulls, however there are many issues to do apart from participating within the controversial competition.
There are magnificent metropolis partitions courting again to Roman instances, in addition to the stunning 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.
Additionally it is a significant cease on the Camino de Santiago. That pilgrimage is excessive on our record of must-do issues! Do you know that Santiago de Compostela is the ultimate cease on the Camino?
15. San Sebastian
Situated only a brief drive from Pamplona is the stunning coastal metropolis of San Sebastian. After the San Fermin Competition, we took a break at San Sebastián to eat a variety of Pinchos.
Situated on the ocean, this metropolis within the Basque Nation is understood for its meals. It additionally has an unbelievable seashore.
16. Marbella
Situated on Spain’s sun-drenched coast, Marbella is a treasure of a vacation spot that seamlessly blends historical past and fashionable luxurious. Wandering via the white-washed homes and cobblestone streets of the charming Outdated City is like stepping again in time. The slim alleys and conventional Andalusian structure are quintessential Marbella, and quaint retailers and welcoming cafes are ready to be found round each nook.
However Marbella just isn’t a city caught prior to now; 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 rest and pleasure, with glowing seashores and energetic nightlife.
The seashores alongside the Golden Mile are a few of the prettiest within the space, with vibrant 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 gorgeous metropolis in Costa Brava with a medieval fort overlooking the ocean and metropolis. There’s a medieval village that’s lovely, and you’ll stroll via the cobblestone streets. There may be additionally a unbelievable seashore.
Costa Brava is without doubt one of the most lovely areas in Spain, and a good way to see it’s on the water. If you wish to style Costa Brava however don’t have time to go to Girona, e-book a kayak and snorkeling tour.
Getting Round Spain
Travel in Spain could be very simple. All the main cities and cities are related by rail, and even most of the smaller villages are too. You possibly can journey cheaply and simply all through Spain by prepare alone.
What’s extra, it’s potential to e-book your prepare tickets on-line earlier than you even go away house.
Automobile leases in Spain
- Vacationers who want to discover as a lot of Spain as they presumably can might need to rent a automobile at some stage in their keep. We’ve got an entire video devoted to How To Rent a Car in Spain.
- In case you are over the age of 21 and have a driver’s license, then hiring a automobile is hassle-free and might work out cheaper than prepare journey in the long term.
- In the event you select to rent a automobile, it will probably simply be organized for the hiring firm to convey your automobile to the airport to fulfill you so you may hit the bottom operating…or, fairly, drive!
- Bear in mind to test whether or not your automobile wants diesel or petrol, or else you’ll have a nightmare in your fingers!
- Click on right here to go looking all of the automobile rental companies and get the perfect value to your trip in Spain.
Bus Journey in Spain
Bus journey can be a fantastic possibility in Spain. For instance, a bus from Madrid to Granada takes simply 4 brief hours and runs two or thrice every day, extra steadily within the excessive season.
Buses are low-cost and cheerful, and they’re a pleasant solution to see the Spanish countryside sprawling away from exterior your window. Relaxation 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 crammed with passionate and caring people who find themselves solely too glad to accommodate vacationers and vacationers.
Studying a bit of of the language can take you a very long time, and even if you happen to make errors, Spanish folks at all times admire the trouble.
