Only some countries can match Spain regarding the sheer variety of sights and activities available to visitors. The rough Sierra Nevada mountain range and the white beaches and turquoise lagoons of Mediterranean islands like Ibiza are just a few examples of the stunning natural landscape and beauty that can be found in this European nation.
Cultural diversity throughout the nation adds to its allure. This country has a wealth of history to learn about, much of which may be experienced in one of its many fascinating cities. Ancient Roman ruins and Moorish Islamic architecture coexist in many Spanish towns with medieval castles, defenses, palaces, and mansions from the Castilian and Hapsburg eras. There are several instances of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernism throughout most cities.
The nation is also the peak of all things that contribute to a high quality of life, such as tasty cuisine, wonderful art, incredible music, exciting dances, and welcoming locals. Use our recommended destinations in Spain as a starting point for your travel plans.
Madrid
Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a bustling metropolis whose colorful barrios (neighborhoods), historic buildings, and world-class museums are framed by year-round blue sky. The Templo de Debod, an Egyptian temple, may be seen in the heart of Madrid.
Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art” has three of the world’s best museums, the Museo del Prado, the Reina Sofa, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and it could keep an art lover busy for days. They line the newly designated Unesco World Heritage site, Madrid’s Paseo del Prado (Art Walk).
Barcelona
Both genuine historic sites and outlandish oddities may be found in Barcelona. The city by the sea seems to attract all kinds of people with its almost overwhelming variety of things to do, from the scenic trails of the colorful Park Güell to the romantic narrow alleys of Barri Gtic, from the beachside nightclubs to the city’s dozens of sacred churches and architectural marvels. You could spend a few days there, but a week is more reasonable so you can see everything.
Even though the beach is busy in Barcelona, the cosmopolitan city is where most visitors focus their attention. Las Ramblas is the epicenter of the action, a maze of cobblestone streets and lanes teeming with eateries, bars, and a bustling pedestrian market. The works of Antoni Gaud, such as Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and La Sagrada Familia, are also must-sees while in Barcelona. Don’t forget to sample some of the region’s great cuisine and wine while in town.
San Sebastian
This Spanish seaside town is a popular vacation spot in the Basque Country. The beautiful Bay of Biscay, which connects to the Atlantic Ocean, lies just opposite San Sebastian. Playa de Zurriola is home to a thriving surfing community, making this town a mecca for surfers. The distinctive Basque culture may also be experienced during a trip there.
La Concha Beach is a popular destination, as is the fortress-topped peak Monte Orgull, which provides stunning views of the port and ancient town below. The ancient town, known as Parte Vieja, with its cobblestone streets, is also a lot of fun. There are several great local boutiques and bars to relax in and have some pintxos in this area (the Basque version of tapas).
Seville
The beauty of the Andalusian capital of Seville lies in its attention to detail, which may leave you with a sense of déjà vu. The city’s year-round sunshine, glorious gardens, and intricately carved palaces have made it a popular location for major film and television productions, including Star Wars and Game of Thrones. Horse-drawn carriages, flamenco tablaos (stages), massive Gothic buildings, and Islamic aesthetic features all form this city’s charm.
Seville’s long and diverse history as a Moorish metropolis, a home of Castilian nobility, and the European gateway to the Americas following Columbus’s 1492 voyage has left a legacy of the rich cultural tapestry. Seeing the Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, and Columbus’ final resting place, and then walking just a few meters to the Real Alcázar, which displays the splendor of Mudéjar architecture with Islamic, Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, is a perfect example of the juxtaposition of cultures that makes Seville so special.
Granada
The attraction of Granada is one of the city’s strongest draws, luring guests in weeks or months before their arrival. Hidden in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain, this Andalusian jewel exudes European beauty and a feeling of mystery befitting its rich past. In Granada, you may visit a chapel built on the site of a mosque, a bakery in a building that was previously a bathhouse, or a store that sells tea instead of tapas. Even though the days of dynastic shifts and cultural collisions are behind, a real feeling of heritage still begs to be comprehended.
With its pulsating cities, stunning coastline, and wealth of cultural attractions, Spain is an undeniable must-see for many tourists touring Europe. Travelers may need help picking which cities to visit due to the abundance of options. U.S. News compiled a list of the top sites in Spain for city slickers, beach bums, and adventurers, considering attractions, culture, seasonality, and expert opinion. Do you have a thought? Your votes will be counted in next year’s ranking.
Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.
