So, you wish to go to Spain however are uncertain of the place to remain and make a base, when to go to, or which sights to prioritize. Never worry, you’ve come to the appropriate place. This information on the most effective issues to do in Spain is a collaboration from our many journeys to Spain and our group members that can assist you plan your Spain itinerary!
Historic cities, the nation’s greatest museums, iconic landmarks, and thrilling outside adventures are simply a few of the issues to do in Spain that you just can’t miss. From Bilbao to Cadiz, I’ve left no stone unturned when creating this useful planner.
Whether you wish to discover the most effective seashores in Spain or marvel on the nation’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, I’ve received a great deal of concepts. So, let’s dive into all the most effective issues to do in Spain, from the wineries within the north to the Moorish structure within the south.
Best of Spain Quick Guide
Must See: Dali Museum, The Alhambra, Royal Palace of Madrid, El Retiro Park, Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, Park Guell, Casa Batllo Where To Stay: Posada del Dragón (Madrid), Only You Hotel (Malaga), Mercer Hotel (Barcelona) Fun To Do: Winery excursions in La Rioja, Ibiza, Mallorca, Flamenco exhibits, La Tomatina competition Day Trips: Cordoba, Toledo, Seville, Cadiz, Segovia Must-Try Foods: Paella, Tapas, Churros, Jamon Iberico
Best Things To Do In Spain
Spain is such a various nation that anybody can get pleasure from it. The nation’s prime sights embrace historic landmarks, luxurious resorts, long-distance mountain climbing trails, and a few of the world’s greatest artwork museums. Just decide one which pursuits you most, and also you’ll have the ability to get pleasure from it in not less than 5 totally different Spanish cities!
1. Winery Tours in La Rioja
La Rioja is a province in northern Spain recognized for wine manufacturing. The greatest Spanish wines originate from this area and all the most effective wineries supply excursions with tastings.
Bodegas Lecea is likely one of the greatest for excursions as a result of the wine barrels are saved in underground caves. Bodegas La Rioja Alta, S.A. can also be standard for tastings and excursions. This vineyard manufactures a few of the highest-quality wines within the nation, and you may style most of them throughout a tour.
Practical Information: It’s greatest to e book a tour/tasting earlier than your arrival, particularly in peak season.
2. Hike the Camino de Santiago
Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) is likely one of the most well-known pilgrimages on this planet. The community of pilgrim paths stretches by means of Northern Spain, France, and Portugal, and all of the paths result in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
It is believed that the apostle’s stays are buried in Galicia’s cathedral. The northern metropolis has been the vacation spot for pilgrims because the tenth century, and mountain climbing even a small part of this path is a really rewarding expertise. At the very least, go to the well-known church on a day journey to expertise a small a part of this Spanish custom.
Practical Information: The oldest route of Camino de Santiago is from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela. It takes roughly two weeks to hike the 300 kilometers by means of the north of Spain.
3. Climb the Tower of Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Família is an iconic landmark of Barcelona, recognized for perpetually being beneath building. It’s estimated that the works on the church will lastly finish in 2026, greater than 140 years after the development started.
The (completed) towers of Sagrada Familia are open to the general public and supply sweeping views of Barcelona’s rooftops. And as a result of the cathedral is likely one of the tallest buildings within the Spanish metropolis, it’s among the best panoramic views to be skilled in Barcelona.
Practical Information: Sagrada Familia is open from 9 AM to six PM. The tickets that embrace a go to to one of many towers are 36€.
Read extra about Barcelona
4. Take Part in La Tomatina
There are two forms of individuals on this planet – those that would gladly take part in La Tomatina and those that would conceal of their lodge room till your entire occasion was over. Buñol’s competition has develop into iconic through the years, attracting many vacationers and locals to town streets in late August.
La Tomatina is an occasion throughout which members throw tomatoes at one another and interact in tomato fights. Buñol’s primary sq. will get coated with squashed tomatoes and appears like a horror movie scene till the fireplace vehicles hose it down. Read extra: The Best and Biggest Festivals Around The World.
Practical Information: La Tomatina takes place on the final Wednesday of August yearly.
5. Visit the Dali Museum in Figueres
Salvador Dali is likely one of the most well-known artists Spain has ever produced. The legendary artist was born in Figueres, a small city in Catalonia. It’s greatest to go to Figueres on day journeys from Barcelona because the city is simply an hour and a half away by public transport.
The Dali Museum is ready inside a Nineteenth-century theater, which was designed by the artist. Dali himself arrange this museum, and it homes the biggest assortment of his artworks. For any artwork lover in Spain, this museum is an absolute should and can possible be the spotlight of your entire journey.
Practical Information: Dali-Theatre Museum is open from 10:30 AM to five PM each day besides Monday. Tickets are 17€.
6. See Gaudi’s Works in Barcelona
Barcelona will get nearly as many guests because the capital, and the general public who come to go to are there for Antoni Gaudi’s works. The architect is taken into account a pioneer of Catalan Modernism, and a few of his most well-known works adorn the streets of Barcelona. Book this extremely rated tour of Sagrada, Casas, and Park Guell.
The greatest one is Sagrada Familia, the imposing cathedral that’s nonetheless beneath building. Park Güell, Casa Batllo, Casa Vicens, and Casa Milla are additionally value visiting for his or her distinctive structure. See our information to the highest works of Gaudi you can not miss right here.
Practical Information: It’s greatest to buy particular person tickets for every of the sights. Bundles exist however are costlier than single tickets.
7. Walk Around the Moorish Palace of Alhambra
The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the vital vital landmarks in Spain. The Moorish palace stays one of many world’s most distinguished examples of Islamic structure, so it’s no surprise it’s one of the vital visited landmarks in southern Spain. Read extra at 27 Best Things to Do at The Grand Canyon
The palace’s building started within the thirteenth century, as ordered by the founding father of the Nasrid dynasty. The palace served because the royal residence for the dynasty, who had been the final Muslim rulers of Spain. Book this tour upfront
Practical Information: The Alhambra is open for excursions from 8:30 AM to eight PM. The tickets are roughly 20€.
8. Discover Influences of Different Cultures at Toledo
Toledo is named the City of Three Cultures due to its Arab, Jewish, and Christian monuments from the Middle Ages. It was additionally El Greco’s dwelling for some time, and it honored the well-known artist with a museum devoted to his works.
The city has UNESCO World Heritage standing, and it’s a superb vacation spot in Spain for vacationers within the structure and historical past of Spain, because of mesmerizing medieval buildings and historic landmarks.
Toledo’s prime landmarks are Puerta de Bisagra, Alcázar de Toledo, Sinagoga del Tránsito, San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo, and extra.
Practical Information: Toledo is roughly an hour outdoors Madrid by bus and prepare.
9. Beaches of Costa del Sol
Spain’s Costa del Sol is the most well-liked vacation spot for holidays within the nation. With numerous cities on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, all of which supply huge sandy seashores and glorious resorts, limiting your self to only one vacation spot is out of the query. Especially if you happen to’re in Spain for a restricted time.
Our suggestion for Costa del Sol excursions is to hire a automobile and drive from Nerja to Estepona. Malaga and Marbella are the highest cities alongside the way in which, providing mixture of vacationer sights and fabulous resorts. A detour to Granada to see the Alhambra is definitely carried out throughout street journeys by means of Costa del Sol.
Practical Information: Malaga is accessible by prepare from Madrid in three hours.
10. Try Paella (And Other Spanish Food)
Food is a vital a part of Spanish tradition and Siesta is proof sufficient. Where else on this planet is it anticipated of individuals to cease working and take naps after lunch? Paella, tapas, jamon iberico, churros, and tortillas are only a few of the numerous dishes it’s best to strive whereas touring by means of Spain.
Valencia is likely one of the greatest cities in Spain for meals excursions. Valencian paella is famous; the area’s local weather is ideal for rising rice, so paella has at all times been a staple meal in Valencian properties.
Practical Information: Gastro excursions are broadly obtainable in all city facilities in Spain.
11. Discover the Nature of the Canary Islands
Situated simply off the western coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago within the Atlantic Ocean. Tenerife is the biggest of the seven islands and the most well-liked vacation spot amongst vacationers within the Canaries. Gran Canaria Island is an in depth second. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the 2 capitals.
Tenerife is thought for Teide National Park, the house of Mount Teide. The volcano is the very best mountain in Spain, accessible by mountain climbing trails and cable automobile. Just remember the fact that it’s an energetic volcano. I like to recommend reserving a guided tour of the realm, simply to be on the secure aspect.
Practical Information: Canary Islands are accessible by flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville.
12. Mingle With The Students in Salamanca
Salamanca is dwelling to the oldest college in Spain. This can also be one of many world’s oldest universities which might be nonetheless in steady operation. With greater than 30,000 college students enrolled within the University of Salamanca, it’s not shocking that the place is a correct pupil city.
A strolling tour of the city lets you uncover Salamanca’s golden sandstone buildings with intricate particulars. Casa de las Conchas, elements of that are coated with seashells, is likely one of the most well-known. Monterrey’s palace, Salamanca Cathedral, and the Roman bridge of Salamanca are a number of different noteworthy landmarks on this picturesque Spanish metropolis.
Practical Information: Salamanca is near Madrid, roughly an hour and 40 minutes by prepare.
13. Tapas and Flamenco in Seville
As the biggest metropolis of Andalusia, Seville is a bustling city heart in southern Spain. Come right here to see marvelous historic landmarks, but additionally to lose your self within the rhythm of Flamenco and overindulge in the most effective tapas.
The historic heart of Seville is dwelling to a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising three buildings – Seville Cathedral, Royal Alcázar of Seville, and the General Archive of the Indies. But my favourite attraction in Seville was Museo del Baile Flamenco. I beloved studying concerning the historical past of the Spanish people dance and completely loved the dwell efficiency. Read our full information – The Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain
Practical Information: Seville is definitely accessible by prepare from Madrid (3 hours) and Malaga (2 hours).
14. Marvel at Castles in Cádiz
Cádiz is the oldest metropolis in Europe that has been constantly inhabited since its founding in 1100 BC. It was based by the Phoenicians as a small buying and selling put up and would later turn into a very powerful harbor in mainland Spain.
The historical past of this city is obvious in its structure. With historic castles, metropolis partitions, and numerous historic landmarks within the outdated city, Cadiz is likely one of the greatest locations for an adventure-filled journey in southern Spain.
Some of town’s greatest sights are the Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz, Torre Tavira, Castillo de San Sebastian, Parque Genovés, and Castillo de Santa Catalina.
Practical Information: Cádiz is within the south of Spain, most simply accessible from Seville and Malaga. It’s 4 and a half hours by prepare from Madrid.
15. Stay in Madrid
Spain’s capital is the most well-liked vacationer vacation spot within the nation and for all the most effective causes. Madrid is a spectacular metropolis providing all kinds of issues to do, from spectacular historic landmarks to glorious buying alternatives.
Stay in Madrid for not less than three days to see as many sights as doable. Plaza de España, Plaza Mayor, and the Madrid Royal Palace are a few of the capital’s prime sights, however solely within the metropolis’s historic heart. Book a hop on hop off bus tour for a superb introduction to the highlights of Madrid
Visit the Literary Quarter to hang around in quaint bookshops and stroll within the steps of Spain’s most well-known writers. Or go to El Retiro Park for the day, to wander across the expansive inexperienced area in the course of this city jungle. And head to La Latina within the night, to search out all the most effective theaters and tapas bars in Madrid. Read our information: 18 Best Day Trips From Madrid
Practical Information: Madrid is accessible by worldwide flights. It’s 20 minutes by prepare from the Madrid Airport to the primary prepare station.
16. Admire the Avant-Garde in Bilbao
Bilbao is the biggest metropolis on Spain’s northern coast and the capital of the Basque Country. The Guggenheim Museum is essentially the most well-known vacationer attraction in Bilbao and among the best in your entire city.
The great thing about Bilbao lies in its distinction. Once a serious industrial heart and harbor, Bilbao is now present process revitalization and it’s all because of the Guggenheim Museum. Frank Gehry’s masterpiece sparked additional investments within the metropolis’s infrastructure, and at this time, it’s an vital vacationer heart in Basque nation.
Come to Bilbao to see the distinction between its industrial previous and avant-garde current. See Plaza Nueva, the neoclassical metropolis sq., and the Santiago Cathedral well-known for Gothic revival structure. Game of Thrones was Filmed close to Bilbao as effectively.
Practical Information: Bilbao is most simply accessible by flights from Barcelona and Madrid. Train and bus journey is feasible, however it takes 5-6 hours and it’s costlier than flying.
17. Journey Back in Time in Córdoba
Córdoba was one of the vital vital cities in Spain beneath Roman rule, and within the Middle Ages, it grew to become a serious Islamic heart. The structure displays town’s historical past, and most of Córdoba’s iconic sights are thought to be excellent examples of Moorish structure.
The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is town’s landmark constructing. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was initially based as a Mosque again within the eighth century however transformed to a cathedral in the course of the Reconquista interval. Also go to Palacio de la Merced for Baroque structure, Palacio de Viana for a touch of Renaissance components, and Templo Romano to see some magnificent Roman ruins.
Practical Information: Cordoba is one hour from Malaga by prepare and two hours from Madrid.
18. Tour The Art Museums
Spain has produced a few of the most influential artists in historical past and the nation’s museums are stocked with their artwork. It’s by no means a nasty thought to enter a Spanish artwork museum, particularly if you happen to get pleasure from viewing the works of the greats.
The Dali Museum in Figueres, the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums in Madrid, the Guggenheim in Bilbao, and the Picasso Museum in Malaga are a few of the most well-known within the nation, however actually not the one ones value your time. The museums are stocked with work by Dali, Goya, Picasso, Velázquez, El Greco, and different iconic artists.
Insider Tip: Pick up the Paseo del Arte Pass to economize on the most effective museums in Madrid and to skip the traces.
Practical Information: The greatest artwork museums in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Malaga.
19. Party in Ibiza
Ibiza has a long-standing fame as a celebration city. Some of the most effective nightclubs in Europe have summer time outposts on the island, the place legendary events happen. And if that feels like your form of trip, Ibiza is a vacation spot to not be missed.In addition to a few of the greatest nightlife in Spain, Ibiza additionally has glorious historic landmarks, gorgeous nature, and plenty of museums. And let’s not neglect concerning the sandy seashores and five-star resorts, that are the primary cause for its reputation.
Practical Information: Ibiza is accessible by flights and ferries from the mainland. Ferries from Valencia are the quickest, taking 5-8 hours to succeed in the Balearic Island.
20. Hop to Mallorca
Mallorca Island is one other standard trip vacation spot in Spain. It’s accessible by ferries and flights, most of which take you to Palma, the island’s capital. With sprawling sandy seashores, glorious lodge resorts, and Gothic structure, town is a should throughout any island hopping journey in Spain.
Mallorca Cathedral is town’s most well-known landmark, with its tall Gothic towers and a wrought-iron cover designed by none apart from Gaudí. Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Llotja de Palma, Bellver Castle, and Arab Baths are a few of the different historic sights in Palma.
Practical Information: Palma is accessible by ferries from Barcelona, Valencia, and Ibiza. Ferries from mainland Spain take 7-9 hours to succeed in Mallorca.
21. Revel in Valencia’s Charm
If you’ll be able to go to only some cities throughout your time in Spain, prioritize Valencia. The fascinating metropolis is an excellent mix of the outdated and new, epitomizing all the things Spain is thought for. It’s received the most effective meals (hiya Valencian paella), medieval landmarks, trendy structure, and fabulous seashores.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is one in all Valencia’s most well-known sights. The trendy science heart is taken into account one of many 12 Treasures of Spain, and its displays are completely fascinating. And on the opposite finish of the spectrum is Baños del Almirante, the one remaining Moorish constructing within the metropolis.
Practical Information: Valencia is accessible by prepare from Madrid (2 hours) and Barcelona (3 hours).
22. Climb a Mountain at Picos de Europa National Park
Picos de Europa National Park is the oldest nationwide park in Spain. It’s located within the north, spanning 11 villages and three areas. With forests, lakes, caves, and tall mountains, the park is a spot of surreal surroundings.
The nationwide park is greatest recognized for its numerous mountain climbing trails. Ranging in issue from very straightforward to extraordinarily difficult, anybody can discover a appropriate mountain climbing path in Picos de Europa. The park is particularly standard amongst mountaineers in Spain, who revel on the probability to overcome one other summit.
Practical Information: Entrance to Picos de Europa National Park is freed from cost.
Football is the nationwide sport of Spain, and the primary spectator sport within the nation. The Real Madrid and FC Barcelona derby is a legendary occasion that has followers of the game glued to their TVs all through the world.
Santiago Bernabeu (Madrid) and Camp Nou (Barcelona) stadiums are as iconic because the Alhambra, and stadium excursions are a should for followers of the game. Witnessing a dwell match together with 1000’s of passionate locals is an unimaginable expertise, one that might convert anybody right into a soccer fan. Even me.
Practical Information: Tickets for La Liga matches have a mean worth of 125€.
24. See The Hanging Houses in Cuenca
The Hanging Houses are three homes constructed into the rock face in Cuenca. They’re often known as Casas Colgadas de Cuenca and are one of the vital fascinating landmarks in central Spain.
The balconies of the homes jut out over the gorge. It’s a dramatic picture, however I have to admit I used to be just a bit bit underwhelmed. I blame the attraction’s identify for setting excessive expectations.
Overall, I used to be glad to go to Cuenca as a result of the city is vibrant, charming, and steeped in historical past. And it’s a little bit of a hidden gem, with out the hordes of vacationers you usually see within the greater cities.
Practical Information: Cuenca is an hour from Madrid by prepare. It’s free to go to the Hanging Houses.
25. Paleolithic Paintings within the Cave of Altamira
A street journey in northern Spain will not be full with no go to to Altamira Cave. The complicated is known around the globe for prehistoric work on the partitions, that are greater than 36,000 years outdated.
Well, you’ll be able to’t go contained in the cave any longer however you’ll be able to see cave findings and replicas of the work at a neighborhood museum. I discovered it mind-bending to stare at work created by Neanderthals, and it altered my perspective on the historical past of our species.
Practical Information: Altamira Cave is in Santillana del Mar. Entrance to the museum website is 3€.
26. Hot Air Balloon Rides in Segovia
Segovia is a small city near Madrid recognized for warm air balloon rides and a Roman aqueduct. It’s really one of many best-preserved Roman aqueducts on this planet, and if you happen to’re into Roman ruins, this city is a should in Spain.
The city boasts fascinating historic structure with Romanesque church buildings and a Gothic cathedral. Alcázar de Segovia, a medieval fortress, provides panoramic views of rolling hills and central Spain’s pure magnificence.
Practical Information: Segovia is 50-60 minutes from Madrid by prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions Me
What Is The Number One Attraction in Spain?
La Sagrada Familia is the primary attraction in Spain. Barcelona’s cathedral is world-famous, regardless of being unfinished greater than a century after building started.
How Many Days Should I Stay in Spain?
You ought to keep in Spain for 10-15 days to completely discover the nation. For shorter journeys, it’s greatest to remain in a single metropolis and discover the area on day journeys.
How to Spend 7 Days in Spain?
Spend 7 days in Spain by visiting Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Toledo, and Valencia. You can keep in Madrid your entire time and discover the capital in three days, and the remainder of the cities on day journeys.
What Is The Best Part of Spain To Visit For The First Time?
Barcelona is the most effective vacation spot for first-timers in Spain. The Catalan metropolis provides beautiful structure and plenty of iconic Spanish landmarks, together with the legendary Sagrada Familia.
Where To Stay in Spain
Stay in Madrid for not less than 3-4 days as a result of the capital provides a lot to find. Barcelona can also be an incredible metropolis to be in for some time, with glorious meals and vigorous streets. For journey within the south of Spain, keep in Malaga for the most effective expertise. Here are a few of the greatest lodges in Spain for all budgets:
Tips and Information for Visiting Spain
Best Time To Visit
Unless you’re touring to Spain for a selected competition or occasion, any time of yr is an effective time to go to. I like to recommend spring or autumn for essentially the most nice expertise.
Summer is the height season for journey in Spain, particularly within the standard vacationer locations, and that usually means massive crowds and excessive lodge costs. Visit within the low season to benefit from the good climate however with fewer crowds and extra inexpensive costs.
Getting There
The largest airports in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca. All three are among the many prime 25 busiest airports in Europe and all supply public transport entry to town heart by bus or prepare.
Try to fly to Madrid. It’s received the most effective connections to different main city facilities and plenty of smaller cities you’ll be able to simply go to on day journeys from Madrid.
Getting Around
All the main cities in Spain are linked by trains and buses. If you’re in Madrid you may get just about anyplace within the nation by public transport with only one or two adjustments. But the trains aren’t very quick and are sometimes costlier than native flights.
Car rental is an effective possibility for street journeys in a selected area. Explore northern Spain in a automobile or drive down Costa del Sol for the last word freedom. But for fast journeys between main Spanish cities, prepare journey is the quickest possibility.
How Much Time Do You Need
You want not less than 10 days for a correct tour in Spain, and even that’s for a condensed itinerary. Ideally, you’ll spend 15-20 days touring across the nation, staying for a number of days in each main metropolis.
Madrid and Barcelona require not less than three days every, whereas most different locations could be toured in a single or two days.
So, there you’ve it, your full information to the most effective issues to do in Spain. If you’re planning a visit to Spain, you’ll be able to select one in all these stunning cities to make a base and e book day journeys to get out to discover extra of the nation. Have you been to Spain? What is your favourite place to go to?
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