Whether or not you could have 10 days in Spain or need to go gradual and regular full immersion, there are a great deal of locations to go to. Numerous and dynamic, every metropolis has its personal tempo of life, its personal traditions, and fiestas.
We have now been fortunate sufficient to spend so much of time in Spain and think about ourselves considerably specialists on the subject 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 variety. Whether or not 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.
On this article, 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 fascinating cities, the place the previous and current coexist. Because the Spanish capital, Madrid provides you a glimpse into Spain’s cultural evolution and Spanish historical past, with the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor protecting town’s structure and heritage intact. La Latina and different neighborhoods will let you see the totally different kinds which have formed town over the centuries, from baroque to up to date, 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 possibly can see works by Spanish artists like Velázquez, Goya, and Picasso. Town’s love of artwork goes past these museums, with theaters, galleries, and avenue performances all over the place for all tastes. This cultural variety in artwork makes Madrid a novel vacation spot for many who love each traditional and fashionable.
Madrid’s meals tradition is a giant a part of its allure. Markets like Mercado de San Miguel are the proper place to strive the totally different regional cuisines of Spain, with stalls providing conventional tapas to fashionable variations of traditional dishes. Because the solar units, town comes alive, with cafes, bars, and golf equipment that preserve 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 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.
In all places we seemed on this metropolis was a feast for our eyes. Colours and structure surrounded us and begged to be explored. As we wandered by means of the hilly, winding streets, we realized that Barcelona is house to FC Barcelona. 1000’s of soccer followers go to the well-known Camp Nou stadium to look at Barça play, however we opted for a unique tour of the stadium. The very best a part of the tour was operating round on the sector and having fun with the beautiful views of town from the higher deck.
Barcelona can also be identified for its nightlife, with bars and golf equipment that play music till the wee hours of the morning. In case you’re trying to occasion, that is 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 luxuriate in this wonderful basilica earlier than the solar obtained too excessive. We wandered by means of the detailed and exquisite inside, gazing up on the beautiful home windows and hovering ceilings. What an inspiration to see such magnificence inside and outside. In case you’re quick on time, we advocate buying a Hop on Hop off bus tour ticket. It is a nice strategy 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 Seashore. Every of those points of interest provided beautiful views of town.
We beloved each second of our time in Barcelona and loved exploring the hilly streets and wandering round this stunning 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 needed 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 girl who sang had a robust voice, and the youthful girl’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 Fort 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 this planet. The tower, El Girnal, was constructed by Moorish architects and affords beautiful 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 formidable construction and a must-see when visiting Seville. Then it was on to the Plaza de España.
Within the night, be certain 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
Positioned within the north of Spain within the stunning Basque Nation, Bilbao is a metropolis the place custom meets modernity. Well-known for its structure, Bilbao has the Guggenheim Museum, some of the spectacular landmarks on this planet, 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 complicated element. The outdated city is a pleasure to get misplaced in, with slim streets giving strategy to vigorous squares and hidden treasures round each nook.
Bilbao can also be cultural. Town has many museums, galleries, and landmarks, each revealing a unique aspect of town’s previous and current. Effective Arts Museum, Maritime Museum, and extra are to not be missed.
After which, in fact, there’s the meals. Bilbao is legendary 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 town’s coastal location, which implies the freshest seafood round.
5. Valencia
Positioned 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.
Generally known as the Metropolis of Arts and Sciences, Valencia options fashionable structure that’s not like anyplace else in Spain. The oceanarium and planetarium are simply two of the futuristic buildings which might be certain 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 points of interest, together with a theme park, making it an incredible vacation spot for households.
However, in truth, Valencia is all in regards to the seashore. Town has a number of seashores which might be excellent for absorbing the solar. Whereas summer time is the height vacationer season, the climate in autumn continues to be heat and ideal for the seashore. Valencia is a type of cities the place you possibly can simply wander the seashore or discover the cultural points of interest. With its stunning 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 wish 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. Climbing on the mild slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains is certainly a must-do. We beloved the views of the encircling space, and the hikes weren’t too tough both.
After a day of exploring the mountains, returning to town for a siesta is important. Waking up within the afternoon and strolling by means of the slim streets of the Albaicín neighborhood is the proper strategy 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. Reside music filters by means of the streets each night time. Or, you might bump into a cave restaurant that includes dwell Flamenco. As a result of why not?
Visiting the Alhambra Advanced 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, beautiful structure, and vibrant power. Salamanca is house to considered one of Europe’s oldest universities, the College of Salamanca, which has been illuminating minds since 1218. The golden sandstone buildings, particularly the beautiful Plaza Mayor and the detailed college façades, are breathtaking. The complete metropolis is a fantastic murals, and wandering the streets is a should. Salamanca is an ideal instance of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque kinds all meshing collectively seamlessly.
However Salamanca just isn’t all about historical past. Town has an incredible cultural vibe due to its younger college inhabitants. There are many cafes, bars, and festivals to maintain anybody younger at coronary heart comfortable. The principle 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 pageant) whereas we have been there, and it was wonderful. Town is filled with life and power, and the individuals are very conventional. It’s an incredible mix of outdated and new.
Town can also be very walkable. The New and Previous 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 automotive in Salamanca, and it’s positively a metropolis that’s finest explored on foot. With its excellent location, wealthy tradition, and beautiful views, Salamanca needs to be on the high of your checklist of locations to go to in Spain.
8. Toledo
Whereas 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 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 outdated quarter and is near the bustling Plaza de Zocodover. In case you would slightly escape the massive metropolis then discover it then Toledo is a good begin.
9. Malaga
Málaga is considered one of Spain’s finest cities due to its coastal allure, historical past, and modernity. Located on the Costa del Sol, it has beautiful Mediterranean views and a few of the finest seashores within the nation. The gentle year-round local weather means you possibly can take pleasure in outside actions, from sunbathing to water sports activities.
Town additionally has a wealthy historical past relationship again to its Phoenician settlement days. Landmarks just like the Alcazaba a nicely preserved Moorish fortress and the Roman Theatre exhibit its cultural variety. Málaga can also be the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and you may 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 outlets and eating places, and the outdated city has conventional tapas, bars, and bustling markets. Plus, it’s a heat welcome and quick access to different Andalusian hotspots. Málaga has all of it.
Moreover, the Spanish islands, such because the Canary Islands, provide scenic shorelines and journey alternatives, making them one other prime coastal vacation spot.
10. Córdoba
Córdoba is considered one of Spain’s high cities for its unbelievable historic and architectural heritage. On the coronary heart 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 also be well-known for its cultural festivals. The Patio Competition in spring reveals off the patios of Córdoba, which the locals embellish with flowers. Flamenco and native meals add to the occasion environment; it’s a good time to go to.
You may 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 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 certainly value a stroll. The historical past on this metropolis is palpable and provides to Girona’s allure.
The city 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 pageant, Temps de Flors, is a spotlight, and it’s stunning to walk by means of the streets and admire the decorations. After which there may be 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 obvious in each scrumptious dish. In case you’re on the lookout for a extra laid-back meal, strive 2 Michelin-starred La Trencada, a fantastic fashionable restaurant with a give attention to native produce, or Els Moats, a comfortable restaurant well-known for its pancakes. Girona is a gem and positively value a go to.
Girona is a good base from which to discover the native space. The beautiful Costa Brava is only a quick drive away, and its stunning seashores and coastal cities are excellent for stress-free within the solar. The transportation community can also 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, look like hanging off the aspect of the cliff as they stretch out over the Huécar River gorge. The country, wood 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 beneath.
The homes are medieval and spectacular, and it’s not laborious to think about the lives of the individuals who lived in them. Ladies washing dishes within the slim home windows, kids enjoying within the steep, creaky staircases, and {couples} dancing within the small, stone rooms.
However 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 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 by means of central Spain the place we noticed the Colgadas, we stopped on the seashore metropolis of Alicante.
Stuffed with strolling streets and markets, scrumptious eating places and nightlife, it was a tremendous Spanish trip. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is probably the most distinguished website to see when visiting this energetic metropolis.
14. Pamplona
House to the San Fermin Competition, Pamplona is legendary for operating the bulls, however there are many issues to do in addition to collaborating within the controversial pageant.
There are magnificent metropolis partitions relationship again to Roman occasions, 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’s also a significant cease on the Camino de Santiago. That pilgrimage is excessive on our checklist of must-do issues! Do you know that Santiago de Compostela is the ultimate cease on the Camino?
15. San Sebastian
Positioned only a quick drive from Pamplona is the beautiful coastal metropolis of San Sebastian. After the San Fermin Competition, we took a break at San Sebastián to eat lots of Pinchos.
Positioned on the ocean, this metropolis within the Basque Nation is understood for its meals. It additionally has an unbelievable seashore.
16. Marbella
Positioned on Spain’s sun-drenched coast, Marbella is a treasure of a vacation spot that seamlessly blends historical past and fashionable luxurious. Wandering by means of the white-washed homes and cobblestone streets of the charming Previous City is like stepping again in time. The slim alleys and conventional Andalusian structure are quintessential Marbella, and quaint outlets and welcoming cafes are ready to be found round each nook.
However Marbella just isn’t a city caught up 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 vigorous space is ideal for these in search of a mixture of rest and pleasure, with glowing seashores and vigorous nightlife.
The seashores alongside the Golden Mile are a few of the prettiest within the space, 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 fantastic metropolis in Costa Brava with a medieval fort overlooking the ocean and metropolis. There’s a medieval village that’s stunning, and you may stroll by means of the cobblestone streets. There may be additionally a implausible seashore.
Costa Brava is likely one of the most stunning 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, ebook a kayak and snorkeling tour.
Getting Round Spain
Works of Gaudi in Barcelona
Journey in Spain could be very simple. All the foremost cities and cities are related by rail, and even lots of the smaller villages are too. You may journey cheaply and simply all through Spain by practice alone.
What’s extra, it’s potential to ebook your practice tickets on-line earlier than you even depart house.
Automotive leases in Spain
Vacationers who want to discover as a lot of Spain as they probably can could need to rent a automotive at some stage in their keep. We have now an entire video devoted to How To Lease a Automotive in Spain.
If you’re over the age of 21 and have a driver’s license, then hiring a automotive is hassle-free and might work out cheaper than practice journey in the long term.
In case you select to rent a automotive, it could simply be organized for the hiring firm to deliver your automotive to the airport to satisfy you so you possibly can hit the bottom operating…or, slightly, drive!
Bear in mind to verify whether or not your automotive wants diesel or petrol, or else you’ll have a nightmare in your arms!
Click on right here to go looking all of the automotive rental companies and get the perfect worth in your trip in Spain.
Bus Journey in Spain
Bus journey can also be an incredible choice in Spain. For instance, a bus from Madrid to Granada takes simply 4 quick 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 strategy 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 have to strategically dehydrate in your lengthy journey right here!
Spain is a vivid and welcoming place crammed with passionate and caring people who find themselves solely too comfortable to accommodate vacationers and vacationers.
Studying slightly of the language can take you a very long time, and even in the event you make errors, Spanish folks at all times admire the trouble.