spain most popular tourist attractions

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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80 Best Tourist Attractions in Spain

 best tourist attractions in spain 2024.

Your one-stop guide to the top 80 best tourist attractions in Spain offers a complete round-up of the top must-see attractions and best places to visit in Spain.

With so many places to visit and things to do such as exploring, popular destinations , amazing attractions, charming beaches , historic sites, and fascinating museums in Spain ,  we thought it would be a great idea to list the best 80 attractions to visit all in one place.

Hopefully, this will help you plan your next holiday to Spain .

1. The Sagrada Familia

The outstanding Sagrada Familia Barcelona located in the city of Barcelona remains the most visited attraction in Spain.

A world heritage site, the Sagrada Familia attracts over three million visitors each year. It is one of the most popular single attractions in the world.

This stunning Gothic structure mesmerises its visitors with its sheer beauty and highly unique architecture, which is a combination of Gothic and modern.

Visitors are able to gain access to different parts of the church including a museum, shop, nave, crypt and towers.

Opening hours for public visits are between 9 am to 6 pm during the winter months and until 8 p.m. in the summer months.

See our complete guide to the Basilica Sagrada Familia Barcelona .

2. Alhambra Palace Granada

If there is one place you should visit in Spain, it should be the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Situated in a privileged position overlooking the beautiful city of Granada in Andalucia , the Alhambra is a sprawling complex of immense beauty.

First mentioned in the year 899 as a small fortress, the Alhambra was rebuilt in the mid-eleventh century and then transformed from a fortress into a palace after being used as a  “medina”, with the addition of more and more buildings.

Top attractions within the Alhambra Palace to visit include the Lions Patio, the Royal Manor and the exquisite Alcazaba.

The Alhambra is still one of the best tourist attractions in Spain, so it's important to book your entrance tickets in advance as there can be long queues at the ticket office depending on the time of year.

The Alhambra is open  Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm with extra evening visits Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10 pm to 11.30 pm. Entrance fees vary depending on the area of the palace and grounds you wish to visit and the type of tour, prices range from €7.00 to €16.95

4. Seville Cathedral

Seville is a great place to visit almost any time of the year and one of its star attractions is the Santa Maria de la Sede Cathedral , the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and recognised as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Seville Cathedral is an imposing sight, located in the heart of the city just a few minutes walk from the Guadalquivir River.

The construction lasted for well over a century, the idea of city elders at the time was to “ build the grandest and most magnificent Cathedral that people will think us mad ”.

The stunning central Nave rises well over 40 meters and is flanked by 80 side chapels. The Basilica was built on the site of the Aljama mosque by the Moorish dynasty which dates back to the 12 th  century.

5. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Located in the region of Galicia in northwest Spain you will find the impressive Santiago de Compostela Cathedral , one of the most imposing structures of its kind in Spain.

Its significance is enormous as it marks the end of the famous Camino de Santiago for many thousands of pilgrims each year.

Construction of the Cathedral began in 1075 under the direction of Bishop Pelaez on the site of an old church dedicated to St James.

It was built in various styles over the many years it took to complete including Gothic, Baroque,  Romanesque and Neoclassical.

Various entrance fee options are available, the guided roof tour costs €12, access to the museum is €6, a guided tour of the cathedral is €10 and a combined tour ticket is €15 per person. A reduced rate is available for certain groups and children under 12 years of age enter for free.

6. Reina Sofia National Art Museum  - Madrid

The  Reina Sofia National Art Museum  is one of the most visited in Spain with well over 3 million visitors a year.

The museum is located within the old General Hospital built during the reign of Charles III and was designated a Historic-Artistic monument in 1977. It was inaugurated as the new Reina Sofia National Art Museum in 1992 by the King and the Queen of Spain Juan Carlos and Sofía.

The museum is now home to some of the most prized art collections anywhere in Europe including works of art by Salvador Dali, Joan Miro. Picasso's "Guernica" is on show on the ground floor and is one of the most important works exhibited here.

It underwent a major reform in 2005 and now has an auditorium seating up to 500 people and another smaller one with a 200-seat capacity, along with a large arts and humanities library.

7. San Lorenzo of El Escorial

Located just a 50-minute drive to the north of Madrid lies the incredible Royal Monastery “ El Escorial”.    The order to build the monastery came from King Philip II to commemorate the victory of the battle of San Quentin in 1557 over France.

The structure took over 20 years to build and within time became the burial ground of all the Spanish Monarchs, a tradition that remains to this day.

The scale of the San Lorenzo Monastery can only truly be appreciated when you actually visit the site.

It is just a short train or car ride to San Lorenzo from Madrid. Entrance tickets can be obtained at the main entrance hall or easily booked online via the official website below.

The basic entrance fee is €10 for adults and just €5 for children up to 16 years of age, a price well worth paying to see such an impressive historic attraction.

8. The Great Mosque of Cordoba

No list of the best tourist attractions in Spain would be complete without including the incredible Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral located in the Cordoba.  The great Arab Mosque dates back to 784 A.D, becoming a World Heritage site in 1984. Cordoba was founded by the Romans in the 2 nd Century and became one of the most important cities under the rule of emperor Augustus, the city's great era though came in the 8 th  century when it was conquered by the Moors.

Apart from the Great Mosque Cordoba is full of interesting places to visit including the famously decorated garden patios, the Zoco craft market, Casa Andalusi, the Jewish quarter, and the banks of the Guadalquivir River.

9. Alcazar of Segovia

The Alcazar of Segovia is one of the most distinctive castles in Spain due to its unique shape and a number of fairy-tale turrets.

Used as a ” Royal Residence” it was built around the 12th century by the Berber dynasty, originally built as a fortress it was later turned into a palace and military academy.

Visitors enjoy exploring many areas of the castle come palace including the throne room, the John II tower and the outer walls. Entrance prices vary from €2.50 to €8.50 depending on the areas you wish to visit, the full guided tour though is highly recommended .

There is much to see around the  city of Segovia so one full day exploring  the Alcazar and its sites may not be enough if you can stay over at least one night you will not be disappointing

10. Running with the Bulls Pamplona

If you are looking to be part of one of Spain’s most popular high-octane-fueled fiestas, the San Fermines Running with the Bulls festival is for you.

Each year during the San Fermines fiestas many thousands of visitors flock to Pamplona to participate in running alongside 12 tons of running bulls ( Toros Bravos ) which are set free at 8 am each morning to run a prepared route around the city of Pamplona .

The bulls then chase and hound the runners ( mozos ) until they all reach the bullring.

And if the bull running is a little frenetic for your tastes then simply enjoy the picture-perfect city of Pamplona which offers lots of quaint tapas bars, charming streets and more than its fair share of historic sites.

11. Visit Spain’s Top Theme Parks

Spain has more than its fair share of  theme parks scattered around the country which are perfect places to enjoy lots of family fun. The pick of the best includes the Terra Mitica Theme Park near Benidorm,  Port Ventura in Barcelona,  Warner Park in Madrid and Isla Magica Park in Seville.

Terra Mitica Park is split into five zones, each one based on an ancient civilisation, and contains a mix of high-speed, adrenalin-filled rides that won’t disappoint thrill-seekers with gentler options for youngsters, making it ideal for families.

PortAventura also offers guests a choice of four top-class themed hotels, each providing easy access to the park and the opportunity for visitors to make the most of their time there.

The  Warner Theme Park  offers a fantastic, fun-filled day out for anyone visiting Madrid. The park is based on an array of top Warner Brothers movies, and its attractions are inspired by many well-known characters, including superhero favourites, Superman and Batman, cartoon greats Tom and Jerry and Scooby-Doo, and the lovable Acme rogues.

Isla Magica is nestled in the heart of Seville, merely a 5-minute walk from the town centre, making it easily accessible and a popular attraction for families visiting the area.

12. Explore San Sebastian

San Sebastian Spain is one of the best places to visit in Summer, it is an attractive, charming and sophisticated resort in Spain. Located on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, in northern Spain, it is surrounded by green hills, bays, rivers and mountains.

The picturesque beach area ( La Concha ) attracts visitors from all walks of life on a global scale.

Gastronomy is high on the agenda for visitors to San Sebastian as it boasts the highest number of  Michelin-starred restaurants in one city. There is an abundance of delicious tapas bars that will quench your appetite for those tasty little food plates.

Stylish architecture, impressive plazas and green parks dotted throughout the city add to its well-deserved label as the “pearl” of the North of Spain.

13. The Jerez Horse Fair Andalucia

The Jerez Horse Fair (Feria de Caballo)  is traditionally held during the first week in May and is a must-visit even if you are not a lover of finely-tuned thoroughbred Andalusian stallions.

This colourful festival is mainly located around the  Gonzalo Hontoria Fairgrounds, an area which is well over  50.000 square meters in size, although during the week-long festivities, special events are held all around the city.

You are never far away from a flamenco show, a great tapas bar or any number of attractions open to the public during the horse fare.

Jerez in itself is a charming Andalucian city home of world-renowned sherry wine and a great place to explore and one of our top choices of the best places to visit in Spain.

14. The April Fair Seville

The April Fair in Seville is one the grandest and oldest  festivals in Spain , held for two weeks after the Easter celebrations each year, it now attracts over a million people a year. The fair began back in 1947 as a cattle fair and over the years took on a more typical Spanish festival feel as we know them today.

The Seville April Fair starts officially on Monday with the Dining of Fish ( “La Cena del Pescaito”), and the parade in which the city mayor is present to switch on the lights around midnight. This act is usually accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display that booms out across the city announcing that the fair is officially underway.

Apart from the fun, shows, drinking, partying and general merriment, the Seville fair has become a true celebration of flamenco dancing and traditional folk singing. Many of the most famous dancers, composers and singers of this passionate art form perform at numerous events during the fair.

15. Historic Seville

Seville is located in southern Spain and is the capital city of the autonomous region of Andalucia. Here you will find everything that is great about this charming region of Spain, its authentic culture, stunning historic sites, great food as well as boasting friendly fun-loving residents.

“Seville,” wrote Byron, “is a pleasant city, famous for oranges and women.”  Whilst this is very true, it's just the tip of the iceberg as Seville has become one of the most visited cities in Spain due to its rich history, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and its enviable location around the River Guadalquivir.

Seville is home to some of the finest monuments and ancient sites in Spain, including the impressive Santa Maria Cathedral and the Giralda Tower the rambling Alcazar gardens, the riverside Torre del Oro (Golden Tower), the banks of the Guadalquivir River, the Almohad Moorish walls and the famous La Maestranza bullring, the oldest of its kind in the world.

16. The Camino de Santiago ( St James Walk )

The  Camino de Santiago is really a collection of old pilgrimage routes, all of which have one thing in common, their destination, Santiago de Compostela.

This unique pilgrimage was named after the Apostle Saint James who was sent by the Romans, in those days to  “Finis Terrae” , “end of the world”, to preach and convert people to Christianity.

The way of Saint James has been an important Christian pilgrimage route since medieval times being in use for over 1000 years.

You don't have to have any religious beliefs to enjoy the atmosphere and beauty in participating in this world-renowned walk.

17. Sierra Nevada Granada

The Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to one of the most popular ski and winter resorts in Spain and the only one based in Andalusia southern Spain .

The Sierra Nevada nestles high in the Pentibetico mountain range some 32 kilometres from the charming and historic city of Granada.

If you are thinking of skiing in the Sierra Nevada you won't be disappointed as the resort offers great facilities for all winter sports enthusiasts and provides a good selection of ski lifts and quality slopes for all levels of skiers. It also has an excellent cross-country track.

It is also true you can snow in the morning and spend the afternoon tanning yourself on a sun-kissed beach as some of the nicest beach resorts of Granada, Almeria and Malaga are only a stone's throw away.

18. Plaza Mayor Salamanca

Salamanca is located around a 90-minute drive northwest of Madrid and is home to the Plaza Mayor, one of the largest public squares in Spain. This famous plaza is used as a meeting point, market place and even a bullfighting arena in the past.

The Plaza Mayor is an awe-inspiring site surrounded by ornate columned archways. The impressive offices of the town hall are also located within the square and have two stories of balconies above the archways below.

The city of Salamanca Spain is well worth visiting, renowned for its charm, and known as the intellectual center of Spain since the  12th century when the first University was created.

19. Malaga August Feria

The Malaga feria is now one the largest  Spain festivals attracting over 2 million visitors each year.  The festival rages all day and night on a large purpose-built park located close to the exhibition centre just 15 minutes from   Malaga International Airport .

The  Feria de Malaga is usually held during the middle of August each year and features live entertainment, traditional music shows, dancing, horses, fireworks and daily processions around the city centre.

Although the main party is held on  Feria  ground on the outskirts of the city we would highly recommend you visit all the events held around the Malaga old quarter where you can enjoy the amazing atmosphere whilst strolling around the decorated streets of central Malaga.

20. Palma Cathedral

If you plan to holiday on the  Island of Majorca then you should take the time to visit this impressive cathedral located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital.

The construction of Palma Majorca Cathedral, often called  La Seu , began in the 13th century. Its Levantine Gothic style boasts one of the largest rose windows in the world, known as “the Gothic eye”, the nave is also one of the highest in Europe.

Winter opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5.15 pm and from 10 am to 6.15 pm during the summer months, it is closed on Sundays.

Interesting Palma Cathedral guided tours are available throughout the year and are the best way to learn all about this fascinating historic site.

21. Logrono Old Town in the Rioja Region

The old town is a paradise for lovers of that great staple, tapas. There are well over 50 tapas bars within a small area, no wonder this was one of Hemingway's favourite eating haunts.  Logrono is also a stopover for the pilgrims en-route to Santiago de Compostela.

Apart from the delicious food, the top attractions to see in Logrono include the Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda, the Cubo del Revellin fort, the old city wall and walking along the River Ebro Park to an arched stone bridge.

22. Girona Old Town

Girona is a beautiful ancient town located about one hour's drive north of  Barcelona. Sadly it is another charming Spanish city that is often overlooked by holidaymakers and passing travellers flying into the local airport on their way to the nearby popular beach resorts of Lloret de Mar or Calella.

The beautiful walled city features the River Onyar running through its core, with picturesque, multi-coloured hanging houses which virtually touch the water below.

Girona is a homely medieval city of medium size (just perfect!). It is clean, vibrant, charming and cosmopolitan, and a real escape from the bustling Costas.

A summer evening stroll from one end of the old quarter to the other is highly recommended – you get a real sense of the local culture and history.

Explore the maze of narrow streets, passageways and celebrated monuments before stopping off at one of the many cosy eateries, tapas bars, terraced restaurants and cafeterias that are present throughout the old city.

23. Bodega Visits Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is a charming historic city located in the heart of Andalucia nestled between the great cities of Seville,Cadiz and Huelva. It is famously the home of Sherry, there are no less than nine major sherry bodegas in Jerez , most of them open to visitors.

Wine tasting is popular in Jerez and a number of bodegas offer the perfect chance to explore the history of wine-making, its production and most importantly, the chance to try a selection of sherry from the very place it originated in.

The local wine and sherry produced in Jerez, play an important economic and social role all around the world. Sherry is unique, made from palomino grapes growing on calcareous soil within a specific local bio-climate. It is then left to age in oak barrels where old sherry is mixed with new ones to create the various types of this famous tipple.

Among the best bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera include Domecq, Garvey, Harveys and  Tio Pepe . Another famous bodega is Bodega Gonzalez Byass , located near the Alcazar, where you can see a construction designed by Gustave Eiffel (Eiffel Tower architect) and lots of barrels signed by personalities such as Orson Welles and Winston Churchill.

Sherry tours are extremely popular and offer a unique view of the sherry-making business from grape to bottle, you will even enjoy a free glass or two of this famous wine after each tour is over.

24. Costa de la Luz Beaches

The Costa del la Luz ( Coast of Light ) is the southernmost coastline of mainland Spain and can proudly boast of having some of the best beaches in Spain. The beaches along the Costa de la Luz are blessed with high-quality sand and clean Atlantic waters.

The coast runs from Tarifa ( windsurfers paradise ) in the east to the Taguas estuary bordering Portugal in the west.

Fantastic clean beaches , pine-clad countryside, picturesque fishing villages and tranquil surroundings are some of the many attractions that attract visitors to this picturesque part of Spain.

25. Zaragoza

Discover Zaragoza, a captivating city that seamlessly blends its ancient past with modern charm. From the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar to the historic Aljaferia Palace, the city's architectural wonders will leave you awe-inspired.

Zaragoza's rich history, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination in Spain.

Whether you're exploring the Ebro River or strolling through its charming streets, Zaragoza Spain will enchant you with its unique blend of tradition and contemporary flair.

26. Roman Aqueduct Segovia

Segovia is located to the northwest of Madrid and is home to one of the finest Roman aqueducts in the world.

A symbol of Rome’s influence in Spain, the Segovia aqueduct is generally believed to be built around the first century,  although there are no readable inscriptions found around the structure, which makes it hard to determine its exact age. Made of granite blocks, the structure started to decay around the 19th century, which prevented it from properly storing water.

Overall  Segovia is a beautiful ancient city  and well worth taking the time to see many interesting sites not to mention the incredible food on offer.

27. El Teide Volcano & National Park Tenerife

Mount Teide is a living breathing volcano located on the  Canary Island of Tenerife . If you stay in Tenerife it would be hard to miss from one point or another around the Island, however, it looks even better up close as the area around Teide is spectacular with its unique moon-like landscape. Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak, rising to 3718 metres above sea level.

This impressive volcano is a testament to how nature’s violent side can create such monsters or beauty beneath perfect blue skies.

The terrain that surrounds Teide National Park  is equally astounding, rivers of fossilized lava flow embrace the hillsides like melted candle wax and the unique landscapes have been used in classic films such as Clash of the Titans and One Million Years BC.

Its unique terrain is a favourite place for scientists looking to test out space vehicles destined for other parts of our galaxy.

For great holiday snaps, stunning scenery, and unworldly-like landscapes a visit to Mount Teide is a must and well worth the effort.

28. February Carnival

February is carnival time in Spain and the pick of the bunch must surely be the Carnivals of Tenerife and Cadiz . The Tenerife carnival resembles those held in Brazil and features parades with floats and bands who perform different types of songs during the street parades.

The colours and costumes worn during this festival are stunning and are a delight to see. The parades move through the streets with energetic musical groups and well-dressed performers.

Some of the colourful costumes can weigh well over 100 kilos, taking months to prepare and make as well as the many hours of practice required to be able to move in such a huge costume.

Whilst Cadiz boasts the oldest carnival celebrations in Spain, dating back to the 16 th  century. Always a colourful spectacle with lots of processions, band playing, group singing, fireworks and much more.

29. La Tomatina  – Tomato Fest

The La Tomatina festival surely has to be one of the most fun and messy of all of Spain’s festivals. Basically, it is the world's largest tomato fight held on the last Wednesday of August each year in the town of Bunol in the region of Valencia .

This is where hundreds of tons of overripe tomatoes are thrown in the streets by thousands of festival-goers.

It is a tomato war using ripe squashed tomatoes hurled between participants leaving everyone dripping with bright red sweet-smelling tomato juice.

There are no winners just people having fun and enjoying being part of this unusual Spanish festival.

30. City of Arts & Science Valencia

Valencia is one of the largest cities located on the midwestern Eastern coast of mainland Spain. The impressive City of Arts and Science is an entertainment-based cultural and architectural complex that will keep you occupied for days on end.

There is a fascinating Aquarium that houses the largest marine and aquarium park in Europe. An Oceanographic centre is situated mainly underground and houses a marshland, wetland areas and mangrove swamps.

The Dolphinarium, one of the largest in Europe has a seating capacity for over 2.000 people and holds around 40 million litres of water !.

The City of Arts and Science is open most days and entrance to the various attractions starts at around 8€ per person.

31. Wine Region of Rioja

Even if you are not a fan of good wine, a trip around the Rioja region is highly recommended.

La Rioja is located in the picturesque north of Spain and is spread out over three communities, La Rioja, the Basque country and Navara.

There are a  number of wineries that regularly open their doors to the public so a planned wine tour is the best way to see how these world-class wines are harvested and made.

Visitors to the region are treated to a number of amazing wine museums, breathtaking landscapes, ancient monuments and fantastic hotels.

32. Breathtaking  Asturias

The Principality of Asturias, known for its rugged coast, is located in the north of mainland Spain. Renowned for being one of the most picturesque, green and fertile lands in Spain.

Asturias boasts a stunning coastline, mountains, beautiful beaches, quaint coastal villages and a range of religious sites and medieval architecture. Asturias is also home to some of the best seafood gastronomy you will find anywhere.

Top attractions include the Molinos Museum at Taramundi, Cape Vido, Lake Covadonga and the Santuario de la Virgen de Covadonga located in Cangas de Onis.

33. Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a charming town located within the Cantabria region of northern Spain.  This quaint and picturesque village is a must place to visit if you plan to travel to explore northern Spain.

The town's real beauty will become quickly apparent as you walk around the cobbled lanes looking around at the historic mansions, sandstone churches and the captivating surrounding hillside.

The top attractions in the town include medieval towers, renaissance palaces, the  Romanesque Santa Juliana Collegiate Church, and the National Museum and the Research Center of Altamira . There is also a zoo which houses snow leopards and tigers, amongst other animals.

The province of Huesca is another must-visit region located in northeastern Spain.

The regional capital is  Huesca situated in upper Aragon and known for its picturesque medieval old town topped by the stunning Gothic Huesca Cathedral.

The city was the capital of Aragon until 1118 when Zaragoza took over the title. Visitors to Huesca are treated to charming streets, mountain landscapes and the backdrop of the Pyrenees.

Top attractions include Huesca Cathedral , the San Pedro el Viejo Abbey Romanesque Monastery and the 11th-century ruins of Montearagon Castle.

35. Parc Guell Barcelona

No  trip to Barcelona  would be complete without visiting Parc Guell, one of the most unusual social spaces in the world. This is another one of Gaudi’s unusual creations, this one located in the northern part of the city.

Sculptures, mosaics and tiling are all on show in this picturesque and leafy park which was cleverly created by Gaudi and built on land high above Barcelona which gives visitors superb views over the city. It is an odd but enchanting place that will stimulate your senses.

It is always good to book your visit in advance as they only allow a certain number of visitors in every hour.

36. Casa Mila Barcelona

Casa Mila popularly known as  La Pedrera ( The Stone Quarry ) is another ingenious creation of Antoni Gaudi not to be missed when visiting Barcelona.  Its facade resembles an open quarry and was built by Antoni Gaudi between 1906 and 1912.

This is the last building created by this unique artist before he devoted his life to the construction of the Sagrada Familia.

Casa Mila is located in the Eixample district of Barcelona and is surely one of the world's most recognised modernist structures. It is best to book admission online to avoid the often long queues.

Entrance fees vary as they offer a variety of tour experiences. La Pedrera by day is the most popular at €22 which includes an audio guide. A combined La Pedrera tour day and night costs €41 but is well worth it.

37. El Prado Museum Madrid

The Prado Museum is located in central Madrid and is recognised as home to one of the finest collections of European art dating between the 12 th  and early 20 th  centuries.

Here you will find works of art by great masters including Goya, Rubens, Velazquez and El Greco. The museum currently houses around 8.000 drawings, 7,500 paintings and almost 5.000 prints.

 The Prado Museum is open most days from 10 am to 8 pm, and if you are on a tight budget you can get free entry between 6 pm and 8 pm daily.

38. Medieval City of Cuenca

If you like visiting truly authentic historic cities and towns then the medieval city of Cuenca is the place for you.

Located in the mountains of east-central Spain, Cuenca was founded by the Moors and is a World Heritage Site.

Walking around the old quarter you will be treated to a walled town with steep cobbled streets and medieval castle ruins.

Cuenca is perched on a limestone rock overlooking the Jucar ana Huecar rivers and is best known for its “Casas Colgadas” or hanging houses which seem to miraculously cling to the cliff edges.

39. Ibiza Nightlife

If your ideal summer vacation consists of late-night partying and dancing till dawn followed by long, lazy days in the sun sleeping off the chaos and drama of the night before, then the  Ibiza summer nightlife is the perfect destination for you.

The night-life is intense and non-stop, the weather is simply glorious and the sun, sea and sand top it off as the ultimate holiday party island.

Ibiza offers some of the greatest clubbing experiences in the world which attracts some of the best DJs and artists on the clubbing circuit. The most famous clubs in Ibiza include Ushuaia, Amnesia, Ocean Club and Pacha.

Every summer, an awesome array of celebs and well-known names hit the party scene, making Ibiza an absolute MUST for clubbers, ravers and those looking to party hard!

40. Trek the Pyrenees

The Pyrenees rise like an immense barrier that separates Spain from the rest of Europe. It stretches for around 450 kilometres from the Cantabrian Sea to the Mediterranean in northern Catalonia and is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Spain.

Some of its peaks are around 3000 meters in height and is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Spain, with long green valleys, quaint towns and villages scattered the whole length and breadth of this beautiful region.

The Pyrenees cover the autonomous regions of Aragon, Catalonia and Navarre and are a meeting point of many cultures as well as being the gateway for many pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela as part of the Camino de Santiago ( St James Walk )

41. Play Golf on Championship Course

Spain has become a golfer's paradise offering over 450 top-class golf courses and an enviable climate with long hours of sunshine which allows valuable golf time late into the evening.

Golf courses are located throughout mainland Spain and the Balearic and Canary Islands. One of the most popular areas for golf holidays in Spain is the stunning  Costa del Sol  which boasts 70 top-class courses alone including such prestigious golf resorts as Valderrama Golf ,  San Roque Club and the ever-impressive  La Reserva Golf  Club .

The current number one golf course in Spain is the stunning PGA Catalunya course located in the heart of Catalonia just a 50-minute drive from Barcelona.

42. Rio Tinto Mines Huelva

A real hidden gem in southern Spain is the Rio Tinto mines, located around the Village of Nieblas within the region of Huelva Andalusia . The name Rio Tinto ( Red River ) was coined from the impressive colour of the water that flows through the mines.

When the ferrous ores come into contact with water they turn both land and the river into an incredible myriad of colours, shades of red, yellow, orange, brown and green can all be seen as the river trickles through the area.

The mines are reputedly the oldest in the world and rich in history, reportedly being the fabled mines of King Solomon himself. It was sold to a British consortium in 1871, who exploited it until it became one of the most important sources of Copper and Sulphur in the world.

The colonials even built a small village called Bella Vista for the employees of the mines which is identical to any perfect little country retreat in Britain with neat lawns gardens, tennis lawns and a social club, it even has its own Presbyterian Church.

The mines are well maintained and can be visited to this day and for a few Euros, you get to go on a guided tour in an old converted train .

43. Alpujarras National Park

For nature lovers, this is an ideal destination with its wide-open spaces, spectacular views, and quaint white-washed villages.

The Alpujarras National Park is a vast open space that stretches from Granada to the neighbouring province of Almeria. During the winter months, you are treated to a snowy peaked backdrop courtesy of the Sierra Nevada mountains .

Trekking, horse riding and cycling are just some of the activities which attract visitors to the precious natural park.

44. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

Bilbao is located in the Basque region of northern Spain. One of its main attractions is the stunning Guggenheim Museum , an architectural masterpiece that will have you mesmerised from the start.

Created by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry,  the museum opened in 1997 and is home to a large selection of prominent and contemporary works of art.

The showstopper though is the curvy titanium-clad building that houses the museum and is now recognised as one of the most unique places to visit in Spain.

After visiting the museum you can take the opportunity to explore the rest of Bilbao including the Casco Viejo (Old Town) on the banks of the Nervion River which is centred around Las Siete Calles, the seven original streets of the city that date back to the 1400s.

The museum is open on weekdays from 10 am to 8 pm ( Closed Mondays ).

45. Plaza Mayor Madrid

Originally called the Plaza del Arrabal it later changed its name to Plaza Mayor and is a stone's throw away from another famous square, namely the Puerta del Sol.

The Plaza Mayor design has a symmetrical and uniform architectural style surrounded by 237 balconies, nine entranceways, a bronze statue of King Phillip III, and ornate gardens.

No visit to Madrid would not be complete without a trip to the Plaza Mayor where visitors are treated to a unique atmosphere, some great little eateries and some fine architecture. Not to be missed on your next trip to Spain’s capital.

46. Las Ramblas Boulevard Barcelona

Las Ramblas is probably one of the first places visitors to Barcelona head to as it is the most easily identified landmark in the city.

Las Ramblas is a long boulevard that cuts through central Barcelona. It is a lively, vibrant place full of market stalls, locals, and street musicians, and lined by a large variety of bars and restaurants.

The boulevard starts near the Port Vell cruise ship terminal and ends at the famous Placa Catalunya at the most northern end and is sandwiched between the Ravel and the Gothic Quarter of the city.

47. Toledos Old City

Toledo is a beautiful and historic Spanish city located just 70km south of  Madrid and is the capital of the Castille La Mancha region.

Toledo was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 and is an absolute must-visit if you wish to are looking to discover the rich artistic and cultural history of Spain

The  city of Toledo  is surrounded by the meandering Tajo River and is truly a beautiful sight, especially at night when its twinkling lights and beautifully lit buildings and monuments can be seen from afar.

Popular sites and attractions in Toledo include Toledo Cathedral , the Alcazar, the Great Defence Wall, the El Greco Museum, the Santa Domingo Monastery, the San Martin bridge with its two towers, and the 15 th Century San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery.

48. Avila Castle

Avila is a beautifully historic city much of it within its perfectly preserved medieval city walls, which are typical of the city’s predominant Romanesque architecture. Avila’s proximity to  Madrid (about an hour’s drive away) makes it an ideal destination for those who yearn to taste the traditional, unchanged Spain while avoiding the bustle of the big city.

Avila within the walls has remained mostly unchanged since centuries ago; the atmosphere is solemn and tranquil, just as if you had gone back in time to medieval Spain.

The city has a wealth of monuments and other architectural sites of excellence, such as the cathedral, the mother of all of them, and several smaller churches and basilicas.

Your first view of the city is, of course, of its majestic walls, started in 1100 and designated a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  – it is one of the few medieval cities in the world whose walls fully enclose the city within them; perfect for that panoramic holiday snap.

At night, the Walls of Avila are the largest fully illuminated monument in the world – now there’s a treat.

49.  Donana National Park

The Donana National Park is located in  Andalucia , Southern Spain halfway between the regional provinces of Seville, Cadiz, and Huelva.

A stunning natural park made up of one of Europe’s most important wetland areas, vast sand dunes, and picturesque pine forests.

The wetland lagoons provide shelter and food for thousands of birds. Donana is one of Spain’s prized national parks and for good reason.

A myriad of landscapes captivates visitors who come to enjoy a large amount of wildlife, the pristine unspoiled beaches, nature trails, and the moving dune systems.

50. Historic Town of Ronda

Just a 30-minute drive from the busy Costa del Sol beach resorts in southern Spain  you will find the  stunning town of Ronda .

Built on an isolated ridge of the Sierra Ronda, the town is split in half by a gaping river gorge, El Tajo, which drops a sheer 130 metres on three sides.

Still more spectacular, the gorge is spanned by a stupendous eighteenth-century arched bridge, the Puente Nuevo, while tall whitewashed houses lean from its precipitous edges.

Much of the attraction of Ronda lies in this extraordinary view, or in walking down to the Rio Guadalquivir or following one of the donkey's tracks through the rich green valley below.

This is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit when in the Costa del Sol.

51. The Valley of the Fallen – El Valle de los Caidos

Located not far from Escorial Monastery this Monument and grounds are dedicated to the fallen from Spain’s civil war.

Although not usually included on the travel itineraries of many visitors to Spain, the Valley of Fallen is well worth a visit.

This was the burial place of General Franco until 2019 when his remains were finally exhumed and laid to rest in his family mausoleum located just outside Madrid.

Although this did cause some controversy, for many people in Spain the presence of his remains served only to glorify Franco's 40-year dictatorship.

The €9 entrance fee is worth it to get a taste of an important part of Spain’s history.

52. The Costa del Sol Resorts

The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular places to visit in Spain. Here, you can enjoy some of the most popular beach resorts in the country, located all along this famous stretch of coastline .  

Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol (Sun Coast) is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, the area is famous for hundreds of golden beaches and a perfect climate boasting over  300 sunshine days a year!

The main resorts on the Costa del Sol include  Fuengirola , Torremolinos,    Benalmadena  and the  luxury sun-kissed resort of Marbella .

53. Watch an Authentic Flamenco Show

A wonderful symbol of Spanish culture, Flamenco is something that many tourists look forward to when visiting the country.

What’s great about this cultural attraction is that it can be watched the whole year round and practically anywhere.

Flamenco is a type of Spanish music containing different elements including singing, dancing, hand-clapping and Spanish acoustic guitar.

You can probably recognise Flamenco immediately thanks to the long, outstanding dresses worn by the women dancers, typically in flamboyant colours of red and blue.

The dance became so popular that it was declared one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2010. In fact, Flamenco dancing is taught and practised all over the world.

There are many famous “ Tabloa Flamenco ” venues around Spain where you can get to see this unique form of music and dance, especially in Seville, Malaga and Barcelona.

Some of the most popular include the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes in Barcelona,  the  Guitar Festival of Cordoba held in July, the   Suma Flamenca  Madrid and the  Malaga Feria  held in August each year.

54. Penafiel Castle – Castilla y Leon

So if you are into wandering around historic sites then head to Penafiel, a stunning German Gothic-style castle of impressive proportions. The castle is located in the province of Valladolid overlooking the picturesque  Botijas and Duraton valleys.

It is around  190 meters in length with one main central tower flanked by eight turrets and was declared a national monument of great interest in 1917 and currently houses the  Provincial Wine Museum. Luckily for visitors, there is a tasting room where you are able to try some of the best local wines.

Penafiel Castle is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 10.30 am to 2 pm and again from 4 pm to 6 pm ( during the summer months it stays open until 8 pm.

55. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The Royal Palace is a real hidden gem, often overlooked, which is a great shame as it is one of the best palaces of its type you will find anywhere in Spain. The town of Aranjuez is located within the  province of Madrid and stands proudly beside the Tagus and Jaramar Rivers.

This shining example of a  royal palace was built by Lorenzo Suarez de Figuero in 1387, it became royal property under Ferdinand II and was claimed as a summer residence for the royal family. It is renowned for its well-crafted gardens and ornate fountains.

Many kings and queens have added their touch to the palace over the centuries including Phillip II, Philip V and Ferdinand VI.

Public opening times are usually between 10.30 am and 4.30 pm, the entrance fee is reasonably priced for unguided tours at €8 for adults and just €4 for children and pensioners.

56.  Almodovar del Rio Castle

The castle sits on a hill on the banks of the Guadalquivir River and dates back to the 8th century when the Moors ruled Andalucia. The town and castle are within easy reach of Cordoba which has good rail links to Madrid, Seville and Malaga.

Almodovar Castle is well worth visiting and is open to the public for guided and nonguided tours which are very reasonably priced starting at €8 for adults, €6 for pensioners and €4 for children.

Visitors can explore the patios, towers and battlements, there is also a nice medieval shop and reenactment tours and activities which are great fun for all the family.

57. Palace Castle of Manzanares

Although at first glance the castle is not one the largest or grandest it is still well worth visiting if you find yourself staying close by.

Originally built as a fortress it was turned into a residential palace by the Mendozas, one of the noblest families in Castilla in the Middle Ages.

58.  Castilla La Mota

Ideally situated on a hill, which is where it gets its name, Mota is Spanish for elevated hill. It dominates the local town and countryside with its impressive towers and battlements.

The castle dates back to the 12th century, thankfully much of it still stands today. Over the years Castilla La Mota has been used as a military academy, a prison and a royal archive.

The castle is open to the public from Mondy to Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm and again from 4 pm to 6 pm (7 pm in the summer ) Sunday and public holidays it is open from 11 am to 2 pm

59. La Manga de Mar Menor

La Manga de Mar Menor is located in the province of Murcia in south-eastern Spain.  Blessed by a unique position, La Manga is surrounded by sea on one side and a huge lagoon on the other.

Due to a geographical accident of nature, La Manga ( which means Sleeve in Spanish ) is a long strip of land which, bar a few connecting channels, is completely closed off the Mediterranean Sea.  A huge saltwater lagoon was formed which is proudly protected from the rougher Mediterranean sea on the outside creating a calm interior bay.

The Mar Menor is ideal for practising many water sports in a calm and safe environment. There are plenty of beaches along the strip to enjoy plus numerous bars, restaurants and two marinas.

60. Celtic Region of Spain

The Iberian peninsular has been heavily influenced over the centuries by the Celtic culture and non more so than Galicia in northwest Spain .

Galicia Spain offers visitors a friendly atmosphere and oldie worldly charm which is unique and endearing.

Galicia is known in Spain as the “land of the 1000 rivers”, as they wind their way all over the region from the mountainous inland to the coast, where they form the characteristic “Rias”. The Celtic culture is evident all around the province from the dark stone buildings to the use of bagpipes by many musical bands.

Travelling around Galicia is like a breath of fresh air with its green and fertile lands, spectacular coastline, picturesque villages and small quaint harbours.

Bagpipes are a surprisingly key part of cultural life and hint at the region’s distinctive Celtic heritage.

Galicians take pride in this identity, despite scepticism from their would-be cousins across the sea.

61. Experience Benidorm

Benidorm is situated in a privileged position on the  Costa Blanca, just south of the other popular resorts of Altea and Javea and northeast of Alicante. It is jealously guarded by the Sierra de Aitana mountain range which protects it from the sometimes inclement cold north winds of winter providing a mild climate even through the colder months.

Holidays to Benidorm are as popular as ever and the resort remains one of Spain’s top holiday hotspots. Tourism here developed in the 1960s and has long been a favourite destination by most northern Europeans ever since.

There are plenty of things to do in Benidorm including, numerous beach and water sports activities, lots of bars, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

62. Whitewashed Villages of Andalusia

The dramatic landscapes of Andalusia have attracted throngs of interested visitors over the years with the whitewashed villages a major attraction to visitors searching for a unique view of Andalucia.

Each of the village locations is varied but each one offers a special charm and is well worth visiting.  Popular villages include Alhama De Granada, Medina Sidonia, Lanjaron, Montefrio and Casares.

One of the most spectacular is the village of Lanjaron located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Granada. The town is roughly 50 kilometres away from the city of Granada  and about the same from the Costa Tropical and the Mediterranean Sea to the south.

Lanjaron is well-known in Spain due to the brand of mineral drinking water of the same name. The area around Lanjaron is noted for its abundant freshwater springs as well as its supreme natural beauty.

A quirky fact – Lanjaron is one of the very few places in the world which prohibits death, yes it's illegal to die in Lanjaron!

63. Cabo de Gata National Park

The Cabo de Gata National Park is located in the  province of Almeria in Andalucia .  The park is based around a huge Cape on the coast and extends out to sea.

It is one of the very few Spanish coastlines that have remained untouched by large-scale development.

Because there are hardly any main resorts and inhabitants and the fact that all urban construction is highly regulated the sea quality is excellent and ideal for diving and snorkelling.

Lucky visitors to Cabo de Gata will find pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, tranquil coastlines and small quaint communities.

65. Picasso Museum Malaga

The Pablo Picasso Museum is located in the heart of Malaga and is dedicated to one of Malaga’s most famous sons.

Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga and later became one of the world's most recognised artists.

The museum opened in 2003 and houses around 280 works of art, donated by Picasso’s family.

The Picasso Museum is located by the Plaza de Merced, close to where this famed artist was born.

It is open to the public between 10 am and 6 pm during the winter months staying open until 8 pm during the summer months. The entrance fee is €9 with reduced rates for students, children and pensioners.

66. Joan Miro Foundation Barcelona

Joan Miro was a Catalonian artist of some note, you will come across his work all around Barcelona starting with a large mosaic located at the airport.  Joan Miro was born in Barcelona on the 20th of April 1893 and became one of the most important representatives of surrealism.

The foundation was initiated by the artist with the museum opening in 1975., it now houses over 10,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures, the earliest ones from 1901.

The Joan Miro Museum opens to the public Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm ( slightly later during the summer months ). The entrance fee is  €12 for adults, children go in for free.

67. Royal Monastery of Guadalupe

Two major events that occurred in 1492 are symbolised at the Royal Monastery, the reconquest by the Catholic Kings and the arrival to the Americas by Christopher Columbus.

There is a famous statue of the Virgin Mary which became a  powerful symbol during the Christianisation of the new world.

Whatever your religious beliefs are you will surely be impressed by the sheer beauty of the stunning monastery.

68. Salvador Dali Museum at Figueres

Salvador Dali was a Catalan artist, sculptor, author and filmmaker who made a great impact on the art world during the 20th century with his incredible surrealist artwork and flamboyant personality.

The Salvador Dali Museum is located in Figueres, his place of birth and where his body is buried. Figueres is located about a two-hour drive north of Barcelona, the transport services are very good and can be easily accessed by train, road or bus.

The museum was created by Dali himself and currently houses the largest surrealist works of art in the world. Although his works may not be to the liking of everyone, his genius is plain to see and the museum is well worth visiting to step into the surrealist world of such a unique personality.

And if you think this may be one of the lesser attractions in Spain,  a staggering 1.4 million people visited the museum in 2017!

There are various entrance tickets and guided tours available to buy online or at the main entrance,  depending on the type of tour you choose.

The basic unguided tour price for the popular Dali-Theatre Museum costs €14 with reduced rates for groups, and students, with free entrance for children up to 8 years of age.

69. Balearic Island Beaches

The  Balearic Islands  consist of the islands of  Mallorca , Menorca Ibiza and Formentera and are home to some of the most incredible beaches and coves  you will find anywhere in Spain.

One of the top reasons why visitors enjoy Balearic Island holidays year after year is its incredible beaches. beaches although there are really so many to enjoy. The pick of the best includes Illetas Beach on Formentera, Cala Comte on Ibiza,  Cala Macarelleta on Menorca and the Pollenca and Alcudia beaches of Mallorca.

70. Roman Amphitheatre Tarragona

The Roman Amphitheatre is located in the Catalonian province of Tarragona around an hour's drive south of Barcelona.

This impressive structure was built in the 2nd century AD boasting a capacity for over 15.000 spectators who often watched the famous gladiators battle with wild animals.

In 259 the Christians were persecuted by Emperor Valerian many of which were burned alive within the amphitheatre. In the 18th century, it was even used as a prison.

71. Merida and Roman Lusitania

Merida is located in the region of Extremadura in southwest Spain. This ancient city was founded in 25 B.C. by the Roman Emperor Augustus and it soon became the economic and cultural capital of Lusitania, the westernmost province of the powerful Roman Empire.

Because of its great importance to the empire,  Merida was lavished with attention from Rome which is evident all around the city.

The impressive Roman Theatre was built in 16 B.C. Decorative mosaics, art, sculptures and ceramics are all on display at the National Museum of Roman Art.

The archaeological site at Merida received World Heritage status from UNESCO in 1993.

72. La Boqueria Market Barcelona

La Boqueria is situated halfway up Las Ramblas and has been the beating heart of Barcelona  since 1836 with over 200 traders offering a huge selection of gastronomic products.

The market is open Tuesday to Thursday from 8 am to 3 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 8 am to 5 pm, it closes on Mondays.

There is an area on the second floor of the market which organises events and classrooms for cooking classes. Top chefs offer classes on local and international gastronomy, for more details see the BCN website . You can also take part in guided tours with a cooking class , tapas and wine-tasting experience, a great way to learn all about this famous indoor market.

73. Gastronomy Tour San Sebastian

The grandiose historic city and stylish resort of San Sebastian  is located in a privileged position within the Basque Country in Northern Spain.

Amongst its many attractions is the incredible gastronomy on offer which is high on the agenda as San Sebastian boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in one city.

The city offers fine dining experiences for the most sophisticated palates as well as numerous smaller tapas (  pintxos) restaurants for you to experience the city’s quirky spin on traditional Spanish tapas. See our  San Sebastian restaurant guide  for full details.

74. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Madrid

The collection is known as the “Golden Triangle of Art” which houses Western art from primitive Flemish and Italian painters to the 20th modern works such as pop art.

The museum was bought by the state in 1993 as a complement to the El Prado and Queen Sofia museums , also located in Madrid. Artists' works on show include those of Picasso, Van Eyck, Holbein and Rubens.

The permanent collections section of the museum is open to the public each week from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm (12 am to 4 pm on Mondays ).

The basic entrance fee is €12 per person, €10 for groups and  €8 for pensioners, children under the age of 18 and teachers get in free.

75. Timanfaya National Park Lanzarote

The Timanfaya National Park is located in the southwestern part of the island of  Lanzarote on the Canary Islands .  A holiday to these fascinating islands would not be the same without visiting the stunning Timanfaya National Park.

The unique volcanic landscape of the park was created between 1730 and 1736 when more than 100 volcanoes erupted devastating the southern of the island including several villages.

Thankfully the volcanoes have not erupted since 1824, however, due to lack of rain and erosion, the landscape looks pretty much as it did just after the last eruptions occurred. Timanfaya was declared a national park in 1968.

Visitors are treated to Martian-like landscapes, stunning scenery and rare plants and fauna. Just a few metres below the surface the temperature reaches around 650°C and anything thrown into deep holes catches fire immediately.

The park opens 7 days a week from opening hours 10.00 am to 18.00 pm, admission is €8.

76. Seville’s Historic Gems

The city of Seville is the capital of the  autonomous region of Andalucia  and is Spain’s fourth-largest city. The first high-speed railway line in the country – the Madrid-Seville AVE line, opened in time for the 1992 World Expo held in the city.

  Seville is a cultural hub in Andalucia with a long and varied historic and cultural past and is home to some of the finest monuments and ancient sites in Spain.

The top sites to visit include the impressive cathedral, the rambling Alcazar gardens, the riverside Torre del Oro (Golden Tower), the banks of the Guadalquivir River, the Almohad walls, La Giralda , and the famous La Maestranza bullring, the oldest of its kind in the world.

77. Footy Tours

You don’t have to be a football enthusiast ( although it definitely helps )  to enjoy a tour around one of the top Spanish football stadiums. Many now offer tours to visitors showing off the ground, practice facilities, the cup room and much more.

The pick of the stadiums includes the home of Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium and of course the  Camp Nou Football Stadium, home to Barcelona.

The Camp Nou experience tour runs every half hour and costs €25, Pensioners and children from 6 to 13 pay €20.   Admission to the impressive Madrid  Football Stadium Tour costs €25 for adults and  €18 for children up to 14 years of age.

78. Monserrat Monastery Barcelona

The Benedictine Monastery of  Santa Maria de Montserrat is situated around 1.200 meters up high in the mountains and makes for an impressive site from miles around.

Top attractions at the monastery include the Black Madonna, Gregorian chants sung daily by 50 boys from the “Escolania de Montserrat” the monastery boarding school and the museum which houses work by Dali, El Greco, Monet and Giordano.

There are plenty of places to enjoy a picnic around the monastery grounds and a few eateries if you prefer to eat local and alfresco.

79. Corralejo National Park Fuerteventura

The Corralejo National Park is located a short drive from the town of Corralejo in the northeast of the Canary Island of Fuerteventura .

It is the best place you can visit to enjoy a dessert experience with its enormous expanse of white sands lapped by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

A wild and varied landscape of volcanic and desert alongside a dramatic and rugged coastline makes this a unique and fascinating place to visit.

Spending a day out in the park you can enjoy lazing on one of the stunning beaches or trek to the top of Red Mountain.

80. Tabernas “Wild West Desert” Almeria

Tabernas desert is located within the province of Almeria  in the autonomous region of Andalusia in southern Spain.

This is Europe's only desert with 3000 annual sunshine hours,  temperatures ranging from -5 to 47C  and an annual rainfall of just 200mm.

Its baron rocky appearance has made it a firm favourite location for movie makers staking its claim as part of international film history.

Many film sets have been constructed around Tabernas over the years some of which are open to those looking to enjoy a Wild West cowboy experience. There are a number of movie sets that you can visit such as Fort Bravo to enjoy a Hollywood cowboy experience, gun fights included!

Some of the top films, TV series and music videos filmed around Tabernas include A Fistful of Dollars, Tobruk, Game of Thrones, Doctor Who and Shout Out To My Ex by supergirl group Little Mix.

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33 Best Attractions in Spain Everyone Should Visit

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As a traveler myself, I understand your deep desire to explore the world’s wonders. With open arms, Spain welcomes its visitors with fantastic attractions, sceneries, and landscapes! 

In this article, I’ll show you the 33 best attractions that deserve a special place on your bucket list. You’ll see that Spain’s charm is not just that it has tons of sites to go, but that each place is so diverse and holds history behind it.

Btw: Putting together a complete list of the best attractions is challenging… You’ll find the table of contents organized by categories, making it easier to browse.

So… this is your sign to stop delaying your decision to travel to Spain. After reading this, you will understand why this European country attracts so many people and even makes some stay! 

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Architectural Wonders

1. the alhambra in granada.

World Heritage Site since 1984

The Alhambra in Granada is the largest and richest legacy of Muslim power in the Iberian Peninsula. It is also one of the most visited monuments in Spain and even in the world! 

Initially, the place was simultaneously a fortress, palace, and small city. It includes The Nasrid Palaces, The Alcazaba, The Generalife, The Partal, and The Palace of Charles V.

Buy tickets as far in advance as possible, on the official website of the Alhambra or at the ticket office.

2. La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

World Heritage Site since 1882

The Sagrada Familia is the symbol of the City of Barcelona par excellence. The construction of this temple began in 1882 with a neo-Gothic style. They gave the project to Gaudí a year later, who completely rethought it.

Sadly, Gaudí died in 1926 and left this masterpiece unfinished. Yet, thanks to the plans that remain, other artists and donors are continuing the project so it can be finished one day!

If I were you, I would go there early in the morning to avoid crowds. And get tickets in advance. Must-read for extra tips: 15 Best Tips & Tricks to Discover Barcelona like a Local

3. Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba)

The renowned Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is a powerful symbol of the Islamic West, representing the city’s essence and character shaped by the fusion of Muslim and Roman Catholic influences. 

This monumental structure, originally a grand Arab mosque, experienced many alterations during the Christian years, especially in the 16th century when the Christian temple or Cathedral was integrated, showing Plateresque elements.

4. The City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) in Valencia

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a complex with unique design and architecture dedicated to scientific and cultural dissemination. 

Besides being one of the 12 Marvels of Spain (I know!), it is Valencia’s most important modern tourist destination. It was inaugurated in 1998 and designed by the well-known architect Santiago Calatrava.

A visit to this place will exceed all your expectations; who knows if you stay for a few months! It happened to my fellow friend, listen to his experience on this podcast episode:

5. Park Güell in Barcelona

Designed by the iconic architect Gaudí, Park Güell is like a fairytale in real life, with its colorful mosaics, curvy structures, and stunning city views!

I promise it feels like you’ve entered a magical dream. Just make sure to arrive early or book tickets online to reserve your spot, as this popular attraction can get busy.

Also, relax! It’s a park. Feel free to bring snacks and enjoy a picnic. A visit usually takes roughly 3 hours.

6. Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

From stunning architecture to impressive exhibits, the museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the North of Spain. It has an outstanding collection of contemporary art, and only the building itself is worth the visit, as it was designed by Frank Gehry. 

Guggenheim Museum is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. (The collection of Wright sites means the first modern architecture designation in the country on the list.)

Buy tickets in advance. Get them on their website. Also, part of the exhibition is outside, so visit with nice weather conditions.

Historical & Cultural Wonders

7. the cathedral, alcázar, and archive of the indies in seville.

Seville’s historic trio, the Cathedral, Alcázar, and Archive of the Indies, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The Cathedral is the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral; the Alcázar is an enchanting palace showcasing Múdejar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, while the Archive of the Indies preserves invaluable colonial-era documents.

8. The Prado Museum

With more than 3 million annual visitors, The Prado Museum is a must-see attraction in the city. It is the most famous museum in the country’s capital and a worldwide reference.

The Prado Museum houses the most extensive collection of Spanish paintings, which makes it an art lover’s dream. It has the most famous paintings by Velázquez (Las Meninas), El Greco, Goya (Third of May 1808), Titian, Rubens, and Bosch.

Free from Monday to Saturday, from 6 pm to 8 pm, and on Sundays and holidays, from 5 pm to 7 pm.

9. Alcazaba in Málaga

The Alcazaba of Málaga is one of Spain’s most important preserved fortresses and defensive enclosures.

It fulfilled military and government functions in the city in the medieval period as it locates in front of the sea.

10. The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Madrid, also called the Palacio de Oriente, is the largest in Western Europe and one of the largest in the world!

It was established as the Spanish kings’ residence in 1764 with Charles III. Today, it is used exclusively for receptions, ceremonies, and official acts since the kings of Spain reside in the Palacio de la Zarzuela.

The visit includes entrance to the official halls, the Royal Armory (to see armor, shields, and weapons of all kinds, constituting one of the most important collections in the world), and the Royal Pharmacy.

The Royal Palace is usually the first visit we recommend in our Madrid Itinerary since it’s a great starting point: How to Get Around Madrid + 8 Tips I Wish Someone Told Me

11. Historic City of Toledo

Toledo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. It sits by the Tagus River in a very unique place.

They call it the “City of the Three Cultures” because Christians, Muslims, and Jews have left their mark here.

It’s been Roman, Visigothic, a Moorish fortress, and had great significance during the reign of Charles V. So, it’s like a treasure trunk of 2,000+ years of history!

12. The Cathedral of Santa María in Salamanca

The Cathedral of Santa María, known as the Old Cathedral, is one of the two cathedrals in Salamanca. 

It has a Romanesque and Gothic style, and its construction began in the first third of the 12th century and was completed at the end of the 14th century.

13. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Catedral de Santiago de Compostela)

Out of all the cathedrals in the world, La Catedral de Santiago is extra special. It’s where we keep the relics of one of Jesus’ 12 apostles, Santiago the Greater. Also, it is the most outstanding work of Romanesque art in Spain.

Moreover, Pilgrims from all over the world come together in a route to complete the Camino de Santiago, reaching the Cathedral. 

14. The Segovia Aqueduct

The Segovia Aqueduct is said to be “a marvel of ancient engineering,” In addition to being the best-preserved work of Roman civil engineering in Spain, it is the most symbolic monument of the city.

In 1985, UNESCO declared the old part of the city and the aqueduct a World Heritage Site, a tourist must-see attraction.

15. The Walls of Ávila (La Muralla de Ávila)

The Walls of Ávila are an example of Romanesque military architecture and are the city’s main monument.

The wall was built with a military purpose in case of invasion since it is located in the highest part of the city.

It was built from 1090 to 1099 and has 33 hectares inside and 2,516 m length from its origin. 

16. Historic City of Cáceres

World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986

You’ll find the third-best-preserved medieval complex in the historic center of Europe, right after Prague and Tallinn. 

It’s like a time capsule where the ancient Roman foundations hide under Muslim, Jewish, and Christian history layers. 

A visit to Cáceres will take you on a unique journey to understand Spain’s rich cultural history, making it an iconic attraction for travelers. 

Looks familiar? Games of Thrones’s final season was filmed in Cáceres.

17. The Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos (La Catedral de Burgos)

The Cathedral of Santa María de Burgos is a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it is one of the masterpieces of Spanish Gothic and the first that represents classical Gothic architecture in Spain.

It began construction in the 13th century and was completed in the 15th and 16th centuries. Also, it has one of the largest collections of masterpieces from the period worldwide!

18. The Roman Theater in Mérida (El Teatro Romano de Mérida)

A hidden gem!

The Roman theater is the most representative element of the Monumental Complex of Mérida. In the same area is the  Anfiteatro , where they used to have those epic gladiator battles and animal fights that we see in movies!

It is exceptionally well-preserved, and, like in Segovia, it is a testament to Roman engineering and architecture. This spot was like the Roman Empire’s entertainment hub.

It’s not surprising that it holds such a key part of Mérida’s rich heritage.

19. Casas Colgadas de Cuenca

“The town of the hanging houses”

Cuenca is famous for its iconic Hanging Houses monument, the main tourist attraction. We’re talking about centuries-old houses perched on a rocky cliff and wooden balconies that somehow remain suspended over a pretty valley.

Also, I highly recommend everyone to visit it since it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the drive to Cuenca from Zaragoza is very underrated. You can appreciate the change from flat, dry lands to cliffs to tall trees. A real beauty!

Natural Beauty

20. teide national park in tenerife.

The renowned Teide National Park is the most visited in Spain. Its peak measures 3,718 meters, making it the highest mountain in our country.

“Its landscape is very similar to the moon. It’s beautiful! The last time I climbed it with my wife and her family from “Montaña Blanca,” it was a unique experience! We saw the sunrise from the top; it was amazing! We plan to do it again this year, but I’ll take the long route from the beach to the top this time. Wish us luck! A chairlift can take you to the top if you don’t want to walk that much. Ohh! And if you are a big fan of stars, the Teide has one of the most important star observatories in the world!” - Carlos, 31 years old, from Madrid.

21. Doñana in Huelva

World Heritage Site since 1994

Doñana is in Andalucia and occupies the right bank of the Guadalquivir River at its mouth in the Atlantic Ocean.

Today, it is famous for its incredible natural diversities, lagoons, marshlands, fixed and mobile dunes, scrub woodland, and maquis.

It’s said that the missing Atlantis is located in this National Park. Even Plato, the Greek Philosopher, described the island in one of his dialogues. Read the full story: The Ancient Spanish Lost City: Is the Missing Atlantis in Andalucia

22. Drach Caves (Cuevas del Drach)

The Drach Caves, located in Porto Cristo in Manacor, are one of the main tourist attractions in Mallorca. I promise you the pictures don’t do justice.

It is one of the most extensive underground caves in the world, so it is well worth a visit since there is a lot to see.

23. Picos de Europa

Picos de Europa is distributed among 11 villages and is Spain’s only inhabited Natural Park.

It is one of my favorite landscapes, where you can hike among peaks (there are more than 30 self-guided routes), lakes, and rivers, eat rich gastronomy, visit charming villages, and plan panoramic routes by car.

24. Montserrat in Catalonia

Montserrat is a multi-peaked mountain range near Barcelona; it takes an hour by car to get there. Booking a tour to Montserrat is booking a unique experience. 

The mountain is known as the site of the Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which hosts the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary. On top of that, you will ride the funicular railway to the Lookout of Saint Joan, which is almost 1000 meters above sea level!

25. Sierra Nevada in Andalucia

Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986

Sierra Nevada is a botanical paradise with a vascular flora with over 2100 cataloged species.

Also, it is an incredible winter destination since Sierra Nevada is a crucial ski resort with 126 kilometers of slopes. During spring, it’s an ideal place for trekking.

26. The Catalan Pyrenees

The Pyrenees? Oh yeah, they’re a real gem! Thousands of tourists go there every year since it is a wild, unexploited area and not too touristy. 

There are few all-year routes between France and Spain, so you can quickly get far from the crowds, unlike other European mountain ranges. 

27. Caves of Altamira in Cantabria

World Heritage Site in 1985

Did you know that this was the first place in the world where the existence of Upper Paleolithic Rock Art was identified?

The cave of Altamira is about 270 meters long. Inside, you will see paintings of animals everywhere, especially species already extinct in Spain and Europe. ( Read more )

28. Paradisiac Islands

One of the most iconic tourist attractions is the Spanish beaches in the Canary and the Balearic Islands… Besides having the ideal climate, their natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes are impressive.

You’ve probably heard of Mallorca and Ibiza, known for stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. But there are many other cities to escape and have fun in the sun!

Find out the best ones in this article: The 15 Magical Islands in Spain to Visit Once in a Lifetime

4. Culinary Experiences

29. la boqueria market.

Since 1840, the energetic Boqueria Market has been a labyrinth with more than 300 stalls offering all kinds of typical products of the gastronomy of Barcelona.

In this attraction, you will find various fruits and vegetables, fish and seafood, meat, preserves, vegetables, cheeses, and other local products. 

Try the octopus marinated in herb oil and paprika from Boqueria bar.

30. San Miguel Market

Mercado San Miguel is the most popular market in Madrid. Visited by over 10 million people yearly, this market is famous for its gastronomic offer, which blends the concepts of a traditional market with high-end tapas and drinks such as beer and wine. 

Wait, you HAVE to stop by this place and try the croquetas ! They’re amazing.

31. Valencian Paella 

Is Valencian Paella considered an attraction? Yes, and it is one of the biggest ones that Valencia has to offer its visitors since it’s well-known worldwide and represents the stereotype of the Spanish Gastronomy. So, yeah… it is an attraction. 

Moreover, it was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 2021. 

If you want to know the ingredients of an authentic Paella, watch this video:

32. La Rioja Wine Region

What crosses your mind when you think of Spain? 

And why did you think about wine? 

Exactly! Spain is renowned worldwide as one of the greatest wine producers ever. That’s why wine enthusiasts visit Spain yearly to have incredible experiences. 

Specifically, there’s La Rioja, a designated origin region famous for its most refined wines, perfect for the most discerning palates: Spanish Vineyards: Insider’s Guide to the Best Wine Tours

Moreover, you’ll find culturally rich attractions in the region, like the Churches in San Millán de la Cogolla, Yuso Monastery, the Co-Cathedral of Santa María de La Redonda, and more.

33. San Sebastián Gastronomy

I can’t talk about attractions without telling you about the culinary delights going on in the Basque Country. 

For example, in San Sebastián, there are 17 Michelin Stars with local and traditional flavors of the region. The gastronomy is very unique, and the city is a world reference in the area.

Do yourself a favor and look at my favorite pintxos of all times! What to Eat in Spain: 31 Tasty & Traditional Dishes

You’ve seen a lot, but it’s not nearly the half! Getting to know all the Spanish cities and hidden gems can take years!

But there’s always a first step. You can start your adventure on your next trip. Let me help you: 10 Days in Spain: The Best Itinerary to See Everything!

READ NEXT: 10 Best Spring Destinations in Spain: Weather & Fun Activities

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

These are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain, from charming villages to gorgeous beaches.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Spain is not a monolith. The country on the Iberian Peninsula comprises 17 autonomous regions, each with distinct culture — with local food, drinks, and music — landmarks, and scenery. From beautiful Balearic beaches and the Antoni Gaudí architecture that shapes Barcelona to the rolling vineyards of Rioja and the Royal Palace in Madrid , Spain brims with historic sights, idyllic landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Needless to say, it’s pretty easy to pack an itinerary. Don’t worry about overdoing it — siestas are a well-established afternoon ritual, something pretty necessary if you're going to stay up for a 10 p.m. dinner.

Here are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain.

Royal Palace of Madrid

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The Royal Palace of Madrid has the distinction of being the largest royal residence in Western Europe. Although the Spanish royal family doesn’t actually reside there anymore, the 3,418-room architectural marvel is still used for state ceremonies and welcomes visitors who come in droves to admire the priceless artwork, armor, and gilded décor.

Platja de Ses Illetes

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Set on the tiny Balearic island of Formentera, Platja de Ses Illetes consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain . A narrow strip of paradise that’s blessed with pristine white sand and warm, shallow, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot for a dreamy day trip. 

La Sagrada Familia

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Barcelona, Catalonia’s capital, is home to numerous landmarks designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, but none more famous than La Sagrada Família, which holds the distinction of the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Its ogival windows, flying buttresses, twisted towers, and religious carvings make it one of the most beautiful places in Europe . 

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

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The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, also referred to as La Seu, stands as an emblem of the city. Constructed at the behest of the Crown of Aragon on the site of a Moorish-era mosque, the impressive landmark shows off Catalan Gothic architecture mixed with Northern European influences and sea views. 

San Sebastián

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Foodies flock to San Sebastián, the pearl of the Cantabrian Sea. This legendary culinary destination in northern Spain is beloved for its Basque cuisine and abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by some of the most talented chefs in the world. In between pintxos bars and fine dining, be sure to hit the golden beaches and explore the atmospheric Old Quarter.

Sierra Nevada National Park

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Snow-capped peaks define Sierra Nevada National Park. Not only does this protected area in the Andalusian provinces of Almería and Granada boast the highest mountains in continental Spain, but it’s also home to many rivers, verdant meadows, pine groves, and wildlife such as mountain goats and golden eagles.

Royal Alcázar of Seville

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The Royal Alcázar of Seville tells an interesting story reflective of Spain’s past. It was built for King Peter of Castile by Castilian Christians, but it actually sits on the site of an Abbadid Muslim alcázar, or palace. Over the years, many generations and cultures have left their mark on the palace through elaborate tilework, ornamental carvings, tapestries, and museum-quality art.

Valldemossa

The beautiful hilltop village of Valldemossa on the northwest coast of Mallorca feels far away from the capital (though it’s only 20 minutes away). Narrow streets wind toward the Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), a former royal palace that was later gifted to monks. Visitors can learn more about the town’s cultural heritage at Costa Nord.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

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A must-see on any visit to Toledo, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is a Roman Catholic church and masterclass in Spanish Gothic architecture. Highlights include stained-glass windows, soaring arched ceilings, flying buttresses, frescos, and a gallery filled with paintings by El Greco.

Cap de Formentor

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The northern tip of Mallorca, Cap de Formentor seems almost unreal with its dramatic, windswept, natural beauty and lack of tourists. This off-the-beaten-path promontory has a remote allure with near-empty beaches, pine forests, winding roads, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Prado Museum

The Prado Museum in Madrid serves as the main repository for national art. It boasts a truly spectacular collection of works by Spanish masters — paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, and sculptures — and showcases the talents of European artists throughout history as well.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

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The most significant and snap-worthy modern tourist attraction in Valencia, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is a futuristic-looking cultural complex that was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava and features a ship-shaped opera house, IMAX dome theater, interactive science museum, open-air art gallery, and the largest aquarium in Europe.  

Plaza de España

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While Seville certainly isn’t lacking in photogenic landmarks, the Aníbal González-designed Plaza de España inside the Parque de María Luisa should be at the top of your list. Erected ahead of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, the famous plaza is truly show-stopping with grand buildings, a large fountain, canals, and tile-ornamented bridges.

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The westernmost of the three Rioja subregions, Rioja Alta is known for its vineyards that cling to the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria hills. If you want to soak in the colorful scenery, learn more about production methods, and sip world-class tempranillo, plan a tour and tasting at a few of the bodegas near the town of Haro.

Casa de Campo

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Casa de Campo in Madrid covers 1,723 hectares (for anyone doing the math, that makes it five times the size of Central Park in New York City) of verdant fields, forests, multi-use walking and cycling paths, tennis courts, a lake for boating, and even an amusement park, zoo, and aquarium. 

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30 Best Things to Do in Spain + MAP

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Spain is a country rich in history, culture, gastronomy, and beautiful landscapes. There are so many things to do in Spain , from visiting its small towns and wonderful beaches to exploring its vivid cities and landmarks.

If you want to know which tourist attractions in Spain you can’t miss, I’ll share the 30 best places and activities in this guide. Not all of them are so well known, but I can assure you that they’ll leave you speechless.

So, are you ready to discover the best places to visit in Spain ?

1. Alhambra of Granada, one of the best places to visit in Spain

Andalusia has a rich Muslim history that’s still present today, which has resulted in some of the best architecture in Spain . The best example of this is the Alhambra in Granada , one of the most famous places in Spain .

This palatial fortress is comprised of a series of Nasrid palaces adorned with white marble columns and muqarnas, which once housed sultans. Moreover, from here, you can see the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the entire city of Granada. Without a doubt, it’s a must-see in Spain , and my favorite part is the Generalife gardens and fountain. If you plan a trip to Southern Spain , you must visit it.

The Alhambra is wildly popular, so if you want full access to the Nasrid palaces, the Alcazaba, the Generalife gardens, and the Partal, I recommend buying your ticket months in advance ; especially during peak season when same-day tickets are impossible to get.

• Recommended accommodation : Hotel Casa Morisca , in the historic neighborhood of Albayzin, at the foot of the Alhambra, is the best option. You’ll have impressive views of the Alhambra and the Generalife, and easy access to the palaces .

2. Visit Seville, one of the best things to do in Spain

Seville is one of the best cities to visit in Spain . I recommend spending at least two days here so you can enjoy everything that Seville has to offer. For example, you’ll love La Giralda, a majestic, 800-year-old Almohad tower that crowns the city’s Cathedral.

Furthermore, the Plaza de España is one of the most iconic points of interest in Spain . Dating back to 1929, it was designed by architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exhibition. You should also walk through the labyrinthine streets of the old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, visit the Alcázar Gardens, and try some local tapas.

Seville is known as the birthplace of flamenco , and, as probably you already know, watching a flamenco show is one of the best activities in Spain . This Triana tablao flamenco show is, no doubt, the best way to experience this part of the Spanish culture, so make sure you book some time for this activity.

As you can see, there is a lot to do in Seville, so I recommend booking tickets to the Cathedral and La Giralda in advance . You may also like this river cruise along the Guadalquivir River, which goes past the Torre del Oro and Triana Bridge.

• Recommended accommodation : The Meliá Lebreros is located just 0.2 miles from the train station, 0.1 miles from the Nervión metro stop, and a few minutes’ walk from the city center .

3. Timanfaya National Park, a beautiful place in Spain you should see

With its gorgeous scenery, Timanfaya National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote .

Walking among the volcanic landscape is like landing on the moon; the geomorphological structures formed from the eruptions of 1730, 1736, and 1824, resulting in one of the top tourist attractions in Spain . Moreover, the combination of red, orange, ochre, and black tones contrast brilliantly against the radiant blue sky. No doubt why this is one of the most popular national parks in Spain.

To see everything that this national park has to offer, I recommend this 1-day tour , which includes admission to the park. It’s an adventurous thing to do in Spain , and you’ll also see La Geria, El Golfo, Charco de Los Clicos, and many other places.

• Recommended accommodation : I definitely recommend the Hotelito del Golfo since it’s the only hotel in the natural park and one of the best places to stay in Lanzarote .

4. Hanging Houses of Cuenca, another famous place in Spain

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca , also known as the King’s Houses, are a series of homes built into a rocky ledge. The houses have large balconies overlooking the Huécar river gorge, making it one of the coolest places in Spain .

The best way to see this historic site in Spain is on a free walking tour with a local guide (it’s in Spanish). Moreover, if you have time, you can visit the Enchanted City and the Cuervo River , two natural wonders in Spain ’s Cuenca province.

• Recommended accommodation : I highly recommend the world-renowned Parador de Cuenca , considered one of the most beautiful paradores in Spain . You’ll have spectacular views since it hangs off the cliff, right in front of the Hanging Houses .

5. See the architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona

If there is a Spanish landmark you must see during your trip, it’s the Sagrada Familia . This famous church in Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí’s modernist masterpiece and an example of the best architecture in Spain .

The cathedral has been under construction for over 100 years, yet it remains one of the top places of interest in Barcelona and all of Spain. The line to get in can last for hours, but it’s well worth going inside, so I recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

While you’re in Barcelona, be sure to check out another Gaudí masterpiece: Park Güell . Another must-see in Spain , this huge architectural garden is full of native flora, undulating pathways, and colorful mosaics. If you want to avoid the line to get in, purchase this ticket in advance, or book this free guided tour with an expert who will tell you all about this World Heritage Site.

Finally, Barcelona is one of the best cities in Spain and has so much to offer, so you can also do this free tour to see some other important monuments in the historic city center. If you prefer to explore on your own, we have a complete guide on things to do in Barcelona .

• Recommended accommodation : The Ayre Hotel Rosellón is right in front of the Sagrada Familia, and you can see it from the hotel’s rooftop terrace, so I plan to stay there during my next trip. Another high-quality accommodation in the city is the W Barcelona , which boasts spectacular views of the sea .

6. Prado Museum & El Retiro Park, Madrid

As we continue this list of things to do in Spain , we move to the capital city of Madrid. In our guide on things to do in Madrid , you will find that this city has it all: recreation, great food, culture, and incredible museums. In fact, the Prado Museum in Madrid is Spain’s most popular museum, with three million annual visitors.

Not only is it one of the most recognized museums in the world, but the Prado also has famous works like Goya’s Black Paintings and Velázquez’s Las Meninas , and loads of galleries that you can get lost in. The museum often has long lines, so I recommend getting your ticket in advance. Also, if you want to dedicate your day to the arts, be sure to check out the Reina Sofía Museum , which is just a few minutes’ walk away.

That said, the Prado Museum is right next to El Retiro Park , another top attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This World Heritage Site is one of the largest parks in Madrid and once belonged to the Spanish monarchy. As such, it’s a lovely place with a big lake, lush gardens, historic monuments like the Alfonso XII Monument, the Fountain of the Fallen Angel, and the Crystal Palace. Without a doubt, this whimsical park is one of the best places to visit in Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is in Madrid’s Art Triangle, close to the Prado, El Retiro, Reina Sofía, the Thyssen Museum, and the Barrio de las Letras .

7. Aqueduct of Segovia, a historical Spanish landmark you can’t miss

The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most important historical sites in Spain and an impressive feat of Roman engineering. Its construction dates back to the beginning of the 2 nd century, to transport water from the Sierra mountains to Segovia (although the legends attribute this to the devil himself).

In addition to the aqueduct, Segovia is a beautiful city with some of the best sightseeing in Spain . During your time here, I recommend taking this guided tour of the Segovia Cathedral and eating a roasted suckling pig at the Mesón de Cándido, a restaurant located beneath the aqueduct.

• Recommended accommodation : The Real Segovia by Recordis Hotels is in the heart of the city, at the Plaza de las Sirenas, and is the best place you can stay in Segovia .

8. See the Lakes of Covadonga & Picos de Europa, a cool thing to do in Spain

Next, we go further north to the Lakes of Covadonga and the Picos de Europa , two beautiful places in Spain that you must visit at least once in your life.

Covadonga was the first capital of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias and is one of the most charming places in Spain , thanks to its religious sanctuary. From there, you can make the ascent towards the Lakes of Covadonga, which offer impressive views of the expansive landscape and, of course, a few Asturian cows along the way.

If you don’t want to drive to the lakes on your own, you can take this excursion from Cangas de Onís, which will take you past the Picos de Europa National Park , one of Spain’s wildest natural treasures.

• Recommended accommodation : The Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo , with views of Covadonga Cathedral, is a lovely hotel where you can go hiking, cycling, and canoeing .

9. Molinos de la Mancha, another popular place to visit in Spain

If you like literature, surely you know Don Quixote . That means you’ll love visiting the famous Molinos de la Mancha , another cultural point of interest in Spain .

There are a few ways to get there, but I recommend the Molinos de Consuegra so you can see these charming 19 th -century windmills. Not only are these striking white windmills a beautiful addition to the Spanish countryside, but they’re a wonderful reminder of the pivotal works by Cervantes.

• Recommended accommodation : El Patio de los Jazmines is a lovely rural hotel recognized by the government’s Junta de Castilla-La Mancha and is perfect for getting lost among the old mills in the countryside .

10. Teide National Park, Tenerife, an incredible attraction in Spain’s Canary Islands

Teide National Park is another must-see in Spain since it has the highest peak in all the Canary Islands, and all of Spain.

It has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can bet that it offers some of the best views in Spain . We have a guide on how to climb Mount Teide , so if you’d like to do the climb but have doubts, be sure to read it. My suggestion is to take the cable car , then climb the 12,200 feet to the crater summit.

If you prefer to do the climb with a guide, check out one of the best Teide tours . In any case, I think it’s an incredible thing to do in Spain that you should do!

• Recommended accommodation : The Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide , located over 6,500 feet above sea level, offers magnificent views of Mount Teide and the arid volcanic surroundings. It’s the perfect place to start (or end) your day in Teide National Park .

11. Visit the Roman Theater of Mérida, an unforgettable activity in Spain

Another great work left by the Romans is the Roman Theater of Mérida . Its construction was ordered by Agrippa, son-in-law of Augustus, between 16 and 15 B.C., and today, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Spain .

Over its 2,000 years of existence, the theater has become the architectural ruins that you’ll see today. Even so, it’s one of the most magnificent parts of the Archaeological Ensemble of Mérida and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Hispania and visit the Roman Theater and other ruins like the Moorish Alcazaba citadel, the Morerías Archaeological Zone, the Casa del Amphitheater, and the Roman Amphitheatre, I recommend this combined pass with a guide .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Ilunion Mérida Palace is a restored 15th-century palace in the Plaza de España with a terrace pool and great views of the city .

12. Burgos Cathedral, another breathtaking place to visit in Spain

The Burgos Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful churches in the country, so it’s a must-see in Spain .

Its construction began 800 years ago, in 1221, following the French Gothic style. Throughout history, it has undergone various restoration efforts that have kept it alive and given it some unique design details. Two standout features are the two exterior towers and the splendid Gothic-Plateresque dome. Inside, you can’t miss the Altarpiece, the Constable’s Chapel, and the Golden Staircase.

 If you want to discover all the secrets of this architectural marvel, I recommend taking this guided tour of the cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Crisol Mesón del Cid is one of the best hotels in Burgos, with a central location that makes it easy to explore the narrow historic streets .

13. See the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, an enjoyable thing to do in Spain with kids

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a cultural and entertainment complex and one of the best tourist attractions in Spain .

The complex was designed by the famous architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela and houses some of the best activities in Spain that you can do as a family. Among them are L’Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe; L’Hemisfèric, a planetarium and the largest laser projection room in Spain; and a three-story science museum. If you get the full ticket , you’ll gain access to all the interactive exhibits and gallery spaces, so it’s worth it.

• Recommended accommodation : The Ilunion Aqua 4 is in front of the City of Arts and Sciences and has a 9 th -floor Michelin star restaurant with panoramic views .

14. Great Mosque of Córdoba, one of the most famous attractions in Spain

The Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the most historic landmarks in Spain and a monument you must see to believe. Don’t be fooled by the name; it’s officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.

Along with the Alhambra, the Mosque of Córdoba is the most important monument of Andalusian architecture. It was declared a Site of Cultural Interest as part of Córdoba’s historic center and, in 2007, was selected by the public as one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. Moreover, it was awarded in a TripAdvisor contest as the best tourist destination in Europe and number six in the world.

As you can see, visiting the Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the top things to do in Spain , and you can soak up all its history on this guided tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hesperia Córdoba is on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, granting you lovely views of the Mosque and the medieval Alcazar fortress .

15. Wall of Ávila, another Spanish landmark you must see

It’s impossible to visit Ávila and not see the majestic Wall of Ávila . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important monuments in Spain that you should see at least once.

The wall has a perimeter of 1.5 miles and covers an area of 81.5 acres. Its 88 medieval towers reach a height of nearly 40 feet, making it one of the most incredible attractions in Spain . This impressive wall was completed between the 11 th and 14 th centuries and they’re the most complete fortifications in the country. Also, the wall’s nine gates were finished at different times, so they each reflect a different style.

It’s worth seeing this marvel, and you can learn more about it and other monuments in Ávila’s historic center on this free tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Palacio de la Velada is an impressive 16th-century palace with luxurious rooms, and it’s right in front of the Ávila Cathedral. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves typical food from the region .

16. Balearic Islands, an unforgettable place to visit in Spain with friends

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in Spain in summer , the Balearic Islands are one of your best options. These islands are comprised of Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera, Ibiza, and Formentera; and other islets, such as Dragonera, Conejera or S’Espalmador.

The Balearic Islands have some of the most beautiful landscapes and beaches in Spain. There’s a reason why it’s the third most-visited autonomous community in Spain, attracting both national and international tourists.

The most populous city here is the capital of Palma de Mallorca . If you go here, I suggest taking this free tour to learn more about its history. Also, this dolphin-watching tour in Palma de Mallorca is one of the best things to do in Spain with family .

Another island I recommend you see is Menorca , which is known for its lovely beaches, coves, and remains of the Talayotic Culture. Take a walk around the citadel, visit Mount Toro and the Mola Fortress, go to Mahón, or take a boat ride to discover the best coves.

Finally, Ibiza is known for its party atmosphere, but it has much more than that, so I’ll tell you all about that later .

17. Go to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, something to do in Spain if it rains

Going to Bilbao is one of the best things to do in northern Spain , and it has one of the coolest cultural attractions, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao .

Inaugurated in 1997, the museum is guarded by the Puppy , an impressive floral dog sculpture created by artist Jeff Koons. As for the design of the building, it’s the work of architect Frank Gehry and is one of the most representative examples of the avant-garde aesthetic of the 20 th century.

If you can, check out the museum at sunset when the play of light on the structure is beautiful. Inside, you’ll find 258,000ft² of space, 113,000 of which are intended for exhibitions. There are collections from local artists like Eduardo Chillida and international artists such as Mark Rothko and Yoko Ono . The museum also has a rotating roster of exhibits ranging from Chinese and Russian art to paintings and sculptures.

It’s best to buy tickets online since they’re cheaper and you’ll avoid unnecessary lines. Also, since you’ll be in Bilbao, take this free tour to learn all about this great historic center and attractions like the Arriaga Theatre, the Begoña Stairs, and the Santiago Cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Carlton in Bilbao’s famous Plaza de Don Federico Moyúa is less than a 10-minute walk from the museum .

18. Toledo, one of the best cities to visit in Spain

Toledo is known as the City of Three Cultures and is another beautiful place to visit in Spain .

My number-one piece of advice is to not leave this city without seeing the Cathedral of Toledo , one of the most impressive churches in the world. It’s also worth visiting the Mirador del Valle, especially at sunset; the Alcantara Bridge; and the Monastery of San Juan, which is over 500 years old.

If you’d like to visit this city from top to bottom, I suggest getting the Toledo Card , which grants you skip-the-line admission to several monuments and a guided tour of the Cathedral .

• Recommended accommodation : The Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection is named after the empress who owned this former palace, which has been converted into a luxury hotel. You won’t regret staying here !

19. Camino de Santiago, a popular thing to do in Spain

Without a doubt, one of the best activities in Spain is doing the Camino de Santiago, one of the best hikes in Spain . Some people do the route on foot, while others go by bike or even run. Whichever method you choose, I promise you it will be a unique experience.

The Camino de Santiago will transport you to some of the most beautiful places in Spain like the tomb of Santiago el Mayor, located in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral .

This route has its roots as a medieval Christian pilgrimage that started from the western Pyrenees. Today, the Camino de Santiago refers to the modern-day routes, such as the Camino Francés and Camino Portugués. As you travel along the route, you’ll meet many other pilgrims making the trek, as well as some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country.

Once you’ve fulfilled your mission and have arrived in Santiago de Compostela, you can receive your official certificate of completion. I also recommend taking this guided tour of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and its museum.

• Recommended accommodation : After such a rigorous journey, the best thing you can do is indulge yourself and stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos . Here, you can lounge like a king in a four-poster bed and enjoy traditional Galician dishes and seafood .

20. Eat paella in Valencia, a typical thing to do in Spain

One of the best things about traveling to a new place is trying different foods, so if you’re going to Spain, you must try paella . You can get paella throughout Spain, but one of the best places to get this traditional dish is in Valencia since it originated there.

Paella is a rice dish, and its name comes from the shallow frying pan that the original Valencian paella was cooked in. Traditional paella valenciana consists of rice, bajoqueta and tavella green beans, rabbit, chicken, and garrofó , a type of lima bean. The ingredients are cooked in olive oil, chicken broth, and saffron, which gives the paella its distinctive yellow color.

This is said to be the original recipe, although you can find all kinds of variations, including paella de mariscos (seafood paella). If you want the very best paella in Spain, be sure to order it in Valencia. Some restaurants that are known for their delicious paella include Casa Carmela, Casa Roberto, La Pepica, La Riuà, and Restaurante Levante.

Sitting around a table with a huge skillet of paella is one of the best things to do in Spain with friends , so you won’t regret traveling to Valencia to experience it!

• Recommended accommodations : Zenit Valencia has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and it’s a few blocks from Casa Roberto. Another good nearby option is Ilunion Aqua 4 next to the City of Arts & Sciences .

21. RondA & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke, called Ronda the city of his dreams, and it’s not hard to see why. Ronda is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and the best way to discover this town is with this free guided tour . Among the famous monuments here, you’ll get to see the New Bridge, which spans the city’s canyon.

You’ll also walk along the Paseo de Ernest Hemingway on the cliffs of El Tajo, which has a sculpture honoring the American writer. Furthermore, you’ll see the iconic balconies of the hanging houses, which hover almost 500 feet over a canyon gorge.

21. Ronda & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

If you fancy something more active, nearby is the Caminito del Rey , one of the best hiking trails in Spain. You can do the route on your own, but if you don’t have much hiking experience, it’s better to do it with a guide . During the 3-hour excursion, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful landscape of cliffs, gorges, and tunnels.

• Recommended accommodation : To round out your visit to Ronda, I recommend the Parador de Ronda , located in the old town hall. You’ll have spectacular views of the gorge and the New Bridge .

22. Go to the oldest restaurant in the world in Madrid

Talking about food again, if you’re in Madrid, you must visit the oldest restaurant in the world , Sobrino de Botín . The restaurant was founded in 1725, and its cellar dates back to 1590.

Sobrino de Botín has an expansive history, especially among artists and creatives. Ernest Hemingway loved dining here, and he even featured the restaurant in one of his books. Also, the Spanish artist Francisco de Goya waited tables here before he got accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.

This tavern is one of the best places to visit in Spain because it’s like stepping back in time. The kitchen oven’s flame has been continuously burning all these years, and the menu consists of original recipes like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cordero asado (roast lamb), and sopa de ajo (a garlicky soup with poached egg).

Moreover, Sobrino de Botín is very close to Plaza Mayor , another popular attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This is one of the city’s main squares and the former center of Old Madrid. It was built during the reign of Philip II, and a bronze statue of the King still stands at the center of the plaza. Throughout the day, you can find tourists and locals passing through, shopping at the stores, or eating at the cafes. Plaza Mayor is also the site of various events throughout the year, including a Christmas market.

• Recommend accommodations : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is a beautiful hotel, or you can stay at the Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid if you’d like to be closer to Plaza Mayor. The hotel has family rooms, a pet-friendly policy, and a spa, so you’ll be comfortable and close to several main attractions .

23. Santiago Bernabéu or Camp Nou, the perfect places to visit in Spain for soccer lovers

Soccer is one of the top activities in Spain , so if you’re a sports fan, there are two places I recommend you visit.

Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid is the famous home stadium for Real Madrid. With a capacity for over 81,000 people, it’s the second-largest stadium in Spain. If there is a game there during your stay, it’s worth going for the camaraderie and experience. Another option is this stadium tour to see the massive arena, exclusive areas for players, and memorabilia about the stadium’s history.

If you’re going to be in Barcelona, check out Camp Nou , the home stadium for FC Barcelona. It’s the biggest stadium in Spain and all of Europe, with seating for over 99,000 spectators. Besides hosting soccer games, Camp Nou is a popular venue for concerts and other events. It also has an on-site museum, so I recommend this tour , which takes you to the soccer pitch, the locker rooms, and the commentary box. You’ll also get to see videos, jerseys, and other items from FC Barcelona’s top players.

• Recommended accommodations : The H10 Tribeca is very close to Santiago Bernabéu and offers modern, sound-proof rooms with free Wi-Fi. If you want to stay near Camp Nou, NH Barcelona Stadium is a sustainable hotel with an on-site restaurant and views of Montjuïc .

24. San Lorenzo de El Escorial, one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Spain

The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of the most important landmarks in Spain , as it’s the best example of the country’s “Golden Age” ideology of the 16 th century.

This World Heritage Site is comprised of the Royal Palace of King Philip II, a convent, a library with thousands of ancient books, and royal burial sites for several former monarchs. The Pantheon of Kings contains the remains of over two dozen royals from the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties.

Throughout its history, El Escorial has served as a basilica, a hospital, a library, a monastery, a museum, a pantheon, and a school. It’s a must-see in Spain thanks to its lovely marble walls, gold-plated accents, and formal gardens.

If you want to know more about this impressive monastery, I recommend you take this excursion , which also takes you to the Valley of the Fallen, an important monument from Spain’s Civil War era.

• Recommended accommodation : If you can, stay at the Exe Victoria Palace , which overlooks the San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Valmayor Reservoir, and the Sierra de Guadarrama. It also has a garden with an outdoor pool where you can lounge and beat the summer heat in Madrid .

25. Salamanca, a city with lots of fun things to do in Spain

Salamanca is a city with lots of cultural points of interest in Spain , like the New and Old Cathedrals, Plaza Mayor, and the Casa de las Conchas. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 and is home to the country’s oldest university.

Moreover, Salamanca is known for its historical monuments, so if you don’t want to miss anything here, I recommend this free tour . It’ll take you past the Plaza del Corrillo, the impressive architecture of the New Cathedral , and the Episcopal Palace, which houses the History Museum of Salamanca . Your guide will also point out the hidden figures etched into the façade of the University of Salamanca , which was founded in 1218.

For me, Salamanca is the most beautiful place to visit in Spain ’s Castilla y León region, so it’s a city you must visit at least once!

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Fenix Gran Meliá hotel, one of the most romantic hotels in Spain. It’s located next to the Plaza de Colón and features classic English furnishings and décor .

26. Visit the beaches of the Canary Islands, something to do in Spain as a couple

If you’re looking for things to do in Spain in winter , I heartily recommend going to the Canary Islands . The Islands are one of my favorite tourist spots in Spain thanks to its year-round temperate climate, its landscapes, and of course, its beautiful beaches.

The average temperature in the Canary Islands is around 68°F, and it rarely rains, so it’s the perfect place to go in the winter. Among all the activities to do here, one of the best things is sightseeing and witnessing the volcanic surroundings of the islands.

When you’re planning your trip, you’ll have to decide which is the best island in the Canary Islands for you. It’s a tough choice, so here are my top suggestions for each island:

• Things to do in Tenerife : Whale tours, Mount Teide, Anaga National Park, and Benijo Beach
• Things to see in Gran Canaria : The beach and dunes of Maspalomas, Roque Nublo
• Things to see in Lanzarote : Timanfaya, Papagayo Beach, and the works of César Manrique
• Things to do in Fuerteventura : Corralejo Dunes and Cofete Beach
• Things to see in La Palma : Roque de Los Muchachos and Caldera de Taburiente
• Things to do in La Gomera : Laurisilva (laurel forest) in Garajonay Natural Park
• Things to do in El Hierro : This quieter island is perfect for scuba diving

Whichever island you choose, you won’t regret it! Without a doubt, the Canary Islands are one of the best places to visit in Spain , so don’t pass them up !

27. San Sebastián, another unique place to visit in Spain

San Sebastián is another lovely city to see in Spain, particularly for its charming La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain .

That said, the most-visited part of San Sebastián and what makes it one of the best places to visit in Spain is its Old Town ( Parte Vieja ). Here, you can visit the Plaza de la Constitución and its colorful buildings, as well as Alameda del Boulevard, the main artery that connects the Old Town to the newer Donostia district. This free tour will tell you more about the town’s history and development.

Another great part about San Sebastián is its gastronomy, as it has the best pintxos (tapas) in the country. It’s worth indulging in the specialties here, and you can try all the best pintxos on this food tour .

• Recommended accommodations : I suggest staying at the Zenit Convento San Martin , which is just 500 feet from La Concha Beach. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and terrace, which is perfect for lounging in the summertime .

28. Go skiing in the Pyrenees, a fun activity in Spain you should do

If you like sports and you’re visiting Spain during the winter, you must go skiing in the Pyrenees .

Within the Catalan Pyrenees , I recommend the Baqueria-Beret ski resort, which has a wide variety of slopes and off-trail runs. If this is where you choose to go, stay at the Hotel Val de Neu , which offers free ski storage, as well as rooms and suites with views of the slopes. There is also the luxury Sisley Spa, where you can indulge in massages, beauty treatments, a thermal circuit, and an outdoor hot tub. It’s the perfect thing to do in Spain after spending a few hours on the slopes.

Another option is La Molina , with over 44 skiable miles. La Molina opened its doors in 1943, making it the oldest ski resort in Catalonia, and it was also the first in Spain to install a ski lift. Today, the resort has 69 slopes, 12 ski schools, and 400 instructors. It’s one of the best places to visit in Spain with family , although you can also train here. If you choose to go here, purchase your ski pass in advance here .

Finally, in the Pyrenees of Huesca, you can go to the Celer, Astún, and Formigal ski resorts. If you prefer something further south, check out the slopes of the Sierra Nevada .

29. Wine tastings in La Rioja, another nice thing to do in Spain as a couple

Spain has the most cultivated vineyards in the world and, it’s number three worldwide in terms of wine production. So, you can imagine that doing a wine tasting in La Rioja is one of the best things to do in Spain .

I mention La Rioja because it’s the creme de la creme regarding Spanish vineyards. If you’d like to immerse yourself in this culture, I recommend this tour , which takes you through the Rioja Vega winery’s grounds and barrel room. You’ll learn about the origins of Spanish wine and, of course, enjoy a guided tasting.

Without a doubt, La Rioja is one of the best places to go in Spain as a couple , although it’s also lots of fun with friends.

• Recommended accommodation : For a dreamy visit, stay at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal in Elciego, within La Rioja’s Alavesa province. Most of the rooms have built-in window seats overlooking the valley. You’ll also have access to the hotel’s Vinothérapie Spa by Caudalie Marqués de Riscal, which offers grape-infused treatments. There is also an indoor pool, a hammam, a Finnish sauna, and a gym, making it one of the most charming hotels in Spain .

30. Party in Ibiza, an awesome thing to do in Spain with friends

Ibiza is known around the world for its party atmosphere, and while it’s true that its nightlife is quite the experience, there is a lot more to this place.

Many areas of Ibiza are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so it’s one of the best islands to visit near Spain . Among these sites are the Renaissance walls of Old Town , the Ses Feixes Wetlands, and the remains of the first Phoenician settlement at Sa Caleta.

Another historic site is Dalt Vila , or High Town. It’s also worth visiting the scenic Punta d’es Moscarter on the northern tip of the island. You can learn more secrets about Ibiza’s Old Town and Dalt Vila on this free tour .

As you can see, Ibiza offers plenty of culture and history, so it’s one of the best holiday destinations in Spain if you’re looking for something different.

• Recommended accommodation : THB Los Molinos , located in Dalt Vila, is an adults-only hotel right on the beach. It has a sauna, hot tub, gym, and balcony rooms, as well as Balinese beds and a bar right next to the pool.

Spanish foods you must try

Trying some typical Spanish foods is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Spain . Below are some of the must-try foods I recommend:

• Paella : As I mentioned, paella is a rice dish that originated in Valencia, and it’s traditionally made with special types of green beans, lima beans, chicken, rabbit, and saffron.
• Gazpacho : This chilled soup is typically made with tomato, cucumbers, onion, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, wine vinegar, water, salt, and crusty bread. It’s most popular in southern Spain.
• Tortilla de patatas : Also known as a Spanish omelet, this dish is made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s often served in smaller portions as a tapa .
• Patatas bravas : Forget French fries; patatas bravas are white potatoes fried in oil, then served with a spicy sauce. They’re often served as tapas , and they’re absolutely delicious.
• Sangria : This red wine mixed with chopped apples, berries, or stone fruits is a staple in Spain.
• Tapas : Tapas are small plates or appetizers that you typically eat with beer or wine. There are different varieties, but the most popular tapas include olives ( aceitunas ), meatballs ( albóndigas ), Russian salad ( ensaladilla rusa ), croquettes, patatas bravas , tortilla de patatas , fried cheese, fried squid rings ( calamares ), and sauteed prawns ( gambas ).

My advice is to come to this country hungry because sampling the traditional foods here is one of the most delicious activities in Spain !

How to get around Spain

Spain is great for road tripping and renting a car will help you see the places in Spain that I recommend here, as well as the surrounding areas. Besides, you can often rent a car in one town and drop it off at another, so it’s quite convenient.

If you want to find cheap car rentals , it’s best to read our guide first. In the past, we’ve mostly used DiscoverCars to get the best prices. Sometimes they’re up to three times cheaper than other websites, so I recommend to check them out.

Also, take into account that renting a car is not required in Spain since there are plenty of bus and train options if you don’t want to drive. To check the best bus/train/flights options in Spain we always use Omio .

And there you have the best things to do in Spain . If you’d like to tell me about your favorite tourist attractions in Spain , or you want to ask me any questions, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment. Until then, have a safe trip!

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26 Best Things To Do In Spain In 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: February 8, 2024

So, you want to visit Spain but are unsure of where to stay and make a base, when to visit, or which attractions to prioritize. Never fear, you have come to the right place. This guide on the best things to do in Spain is a collaboration from our many trips to Spain and our team members to help you plan your Spain itinerary! 

Historic towns, the country’s best museums, iconic landmarks, and exciting outdoor adventures are just some of the things to do in Spain that you cannot miss. From Bilbao to Cadiz, I’ve left no stone unturned when creating this helpful planner. 

Whether you want to explore the best beaches in Spain or marvel at the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, I’ve got loads of ideas. So, let’s dive into all the best things to do in Spain, from the wineries in the north to the Moorish architecture in 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 tours in La Rioja , Ibiza, Mallorca, Flamenco shows , La Tomatina festival
• 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 diverse country that anyone can enjoy it. The country’s top attractions include ancient landmarks, luxury resorts, long-distance hiking trails, and some of the world’s best art museums. Just pick one that interests you most, and you’ll be able to enjoy it in at least five different Spanish cities! 

1. Winery Tours in La Rioja 

La Rioja is a province in northern Spain known for wine production. The best Spanish wines originate from this region and all the best wineries offer tours with tastings. 

Bodegas Lecea is one of the best for tours because the wine barrels are stored in underground caves. Bodegas La Rioja Alta, S.A. is also popular for tastings and tours. This winery manufactures some of the highest-quality wines in the country, and you can taste most of them during a tour. 

Practical Information: It’s best to book a tour/tasting before your arrival, especially in peak season. 

2. Hike the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) is one of the most famous pilgrimages in the world. The network of pilgrim paths stretches through Northern Spain, France, and Portugal, and all the paths lead to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. 

It is believed that the apostle’s remains are buried in Galicia’s cathedral. The northern city has been the destination for pilgrims since the 10th century, and hiking even a small section of this path is a very rewarding experience. At the very least, visit the famous church on a day trip to experience a small part of this Spanish tradition. 

Practical Information: The oldest route of Camino de Santiago is from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela. It takes approximately two weeks to hike the 300 kilometers through the north of Spain. 

3. Climb the Tower of Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Família is an iconic landmark of Barcelona, known for perpetually being under construction. It’s estimated that the works on the church will finally end in 2026, more than 140 years after the construction began. 

The (finished) towers of Sagrada Familia are open to the public and offer sweeping views of Barcelona’s rooftops. And because the cathedral is one of the tallest buildings in the Spanish city, it’s one of the best panoramic views to be experienced in Barcelona. 

Practical Information : Sagrada Familia is open from 9 AM to 6 PM. The tickets that include a visit to one of the towers are 36€. 

Read more about Barcelona

• A Tour of The Works of Gaudi in Barcelona
• 19 Best Day Trips From Barcelona
• Where to Stay in Barcelona – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• 28 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona

4. Take Part in La Tomatina

There are two types of people in the world – those who would gladly participate in La Tomatina and those who would hide in their hotel room until the entire event was over. Buñol’s festival has become iconic over the years, attracting many tourists and locals to the city streets in late August. 

La Tomatina is an event during which participants throw tomatoes at each other and engage in tomato fights. Buñol’s main square gets covered with squashed tomatoes and looks like a horror film scene until the fire trucks hose it down. Read more: The Best and Biggest Festivals Around The World .

Practical Information : La Tomatina takes place on the last Wednesday of August every year. 

5. Visit the Dali Museum in Figueres

Salvador Dali is one of the most famous artists Spain has ever produced. The legendary artist was born in Figueres, a small town in Catalonia. It’s best to visit Figueres on day trips from Barcelona as the town is only an hour and a half away by public transport.

The Dali Museum is set inside a 19th-century theater, which was designed by the artist. Dali himself set up this museum, and it houses the largest collection of his artworks. For any art lover in Spain, this museum is an absolute must and will likely be the highlight of the entire trip.  

Practical Information: Dali-Theatre Museum is open from 10:30 AM to 5 PM every day except Monday. Tickets are 17€. 

6. See Gaudi’s Works in Barcelona 

Barcelona gets almost as many visitors as the capital, and most of the people who come to visit are there for Antoni Gaudi’s works. The architect is considered a pioneer of Catalan Modernism, and some of his most famous works adorn the streets of Barcelona.  Book this highly rated tour of Sagrada, Casas, and Park Guell.

The best one is Sagrada Familia, the imposing cathedral that is still under construction. Park Güell, Casa Batllo, Casa Vicens, and Casa Milla are also worth visiting for their unique architecture. See our guide to the top works of Gaudi you cannot miss here.

Practical Information: It’s best to purchase individual tickets for each of the attractions. Bundles exist but are more expensive than single tickets. 

7. Walk Around the Moorish Palace of Alhambra

The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important landmarks in Spain. The Moorish palace remains one of the world’s most prominent examples of Islamic architecture, so it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited landmarks in southern Spain. Read more at 27 Best Things to Do at The Grand Canyon

The palace’s construction began in the 13th century, as ordered by the founder of the Nasrid dynasty. The palace served as the royal residence for the dynasty, who were the last Muslim rulers of Spain.  Book this tour in advance

Practical Information: The Alhambra is open for tours from 8:30 AM to 8 PM. The tickets are approximately 20€.

8. Discover Influences of Different Cultures at Toledo  

Toledo is known as the City of Three Cultures because of its Arab, Jewish, and Christian monuments from the Middle Ages. It was also El Greco’s home for a while, and it honored the famous artist with a museum dedicated to his works. 

The town has UNESCO World Heritage status, and it’s an excellent destination in Spain for travelers interested in the architecture and history of Spain, thanks to mesmerizing medieval buildings and historic landmarks. 

Toledo’s top landmarks are Puerta de Bisagra, Alcázar de Toledo, Sinagoga del Tránsito, San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo, and more. 

Practical Information: Toledo is approximately an hour outside Madrid by bus and train.

9. Beaches of Costa del Sol

Spain’s Costa del Sol is the most popular destination for vacations in the country. With countless towns on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, all of which offer vast sandy beaches and excellent resorts, limiting yourself to just one destination is out of the question. Especially if you’re in Spain for a limited time. 

Our recommendation for Costa del Sol tours is to rent a car and drive from Nerja to Estepona. Malaga and Marbella are the top cities along the way, offering a good mix of tourist attractions and fabulous resorts. A detour to Granada to see the Alhambra is easily done during road trips through Costa del Sol. 

Practical Information: Malaga is accessible by train from Madrid in three hours. 

10. Try Paella (And Other Spanish Food)

Food is an important part of Spanish culture and Siesta is evidence enough. Where else in the world is it expected of people to stop working and take naps after lunch? Paella, tapas, jamon iberico, churros, and tortillas are just a few of the many dishes you should try while traveling through Spain. 

Valencia is one of the best cities in Spain for food tours. Valencian paella is legendary; the region’s climate is perfect for growing rice, so paella has always been a staple meal in Valencian homes. 

Practical Information: Gastro tours are widely available in all urban centers in Spain. 

11. Discover the Nature of the Canary Islands

Situated just off the western coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Tenerife is the largest of the seven islands and the most popular destination among tourists in the Canaries. Gran Canaria Island is a close second. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the two capitals. 

Tenerife is known for Teide National Park, the home of Mount Teide. The volcano is the highest mountain in Spain, accessible by hiking trails and cable car. Just keep in mind that it’s an active volcano. I recommend booking a guided tour of the area , just to be on the safe side. 

Practical Information: Canary Islands are accessible by flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. 

12. Mingle With The Students in Salamanca 

Salamanca is home to the oldest university in Spain. This is also one of the world’s oldest universities that are still in continuous operation. With more than 30,000 students enrolled in the University of Salamanca, it’s not surprising that the place is a proper student town. 

A walking tour of the town allows you to discover Salamanca’s golden sandstone buildings with intricate details. Casa de las Conchas, parts of which are covered with seashells, is one of the most famous. Monterrey’s palace, Salamanca Cathedral, and the Roman bridge of Salamanca are a few other noteworthy landmarks in this picturesque Spanish city. 

Practical Information: Salamanca is close to Madrid, approximately an hour and  40 minutes by train. 

13. Tapas and Flamenco in Seville

As the largest city of Andalusia , Seville is a bustling urban center in southern Spain. Come here to see marvelous historic landmarks, but also to lose yourself in the rhythm of Flamenco and overindulge in the best tapas. 

The historic center of Seville is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising three buildings – Seville Cathedral, Royal Alcázar of Seville, and the General Archive of the Indies. But my favorite attraction in Seville was Museo del Baile Flamenco. I loved learning about the history of the Spanish folk dance and thoroughly enjoyed the live performance. Read our full guide – The Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain

Practical Information: Seville is easily accessible by train from Madrid (3 hours) and Malaga (2 hours). 

14. Marvel at Castles in Cádiz

Cádiz is the oldest city in Europe that has been continuously inhabited since its founding in 1100 BC. It was founded by the Phoenicians as a small trading post and would later develop into the most important harbor in mainland Spain. 

The history of this town is evident in its architecture. With ancient castles, city walls, and countless historic landmarks in the old town, Cadiz is one of the best destinations for an adventure-filled trip in southern Spain. 

Some of the city’s best attractions 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 in the south of Spain, most easily accessible from Seville and Malaga. It’s four and a half hours by train from Madrid. 

15. Stay in Madrid

Spain’s capital is the most popular tourist destination in the country and for all the best reasons. Madrid is a spectacular city offering a wide variety of things to do, from impressive historic landmarks to excellent shopping opportunities. 

Stay in Madrid for at least three days to see as many attractions as possible. Plaza de España, Plaza Mayor, and the Madrid Royal Palace are some of the capital’s top sights, but only in the city’s historic center. Book a hop on hop off bus tour for an excellent introduction to the highlights of Madrid

Visit the Literary Quarter to hang out in quaint bookshops and walk in the steps of Spain’s most famous writers. Or go to El Retiro Park for the day, to wander around the expansive green space in the middle of this urban jungle. And head to La Latina in the evening, to find all the best theaters and tapas bars in Madrid. Read our guide: 18 Best Day Trips From Madrid

Practical Information: Madrid is accessible by international flights. It’s 20 minutes by train from the Madrid Airport to the main train station.  

16. Admire the Avant-Garde in Bilbao 

Bilbao is the largest city on Spain’s northern coast and the capital of the Basque Country. The Guggenheim Museum is the most famous tourist attraction in Bilbao and one of the best in the entire town. 

The beauty of Bilbao lies in its contrast. Once a major industrial center and harbor, Bilbao is now undergoing revitalization and it’s all thanks to the Guggenheim Museum. Frank Gehry’s masterpiece sparked further investments in the city’s infrastructure, and today, it’s an important tourist center in Basque country. 

Come to Bilbao to see the contrast between its industrial past and avant-garde present. See Plaza Nueva, the neoclassical city square, and the Santiago Cathedral famous for Gothic revival architecture.  Game of Thrones was Filmed near Bilbao as well.

Practical Information: Bilbao is most easily accessible by flights from Barcelona and Madrid. Train and bus travel is possible, but it takes 5-6 hours and it’s more expensive than flying.

17. Journey Back in Time in Córdoba

Córdoba was one of the most important cities in Spain under Roman rule, and in the Middle Ages, it became a major Islamic center. The architecture reflects the city’s history, and most of Córdoba’s iconic attractions are regarded as outstanding examples of Moorish architecture. 

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is the city’s landmark building. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was initially founded as a Mosque back in the 8th century but converted to a cathedral during the Reconquista period. Also visit Palacio de la Merced for Baroque architecture, Palacio de Viana for a dash of Renaissance elements, and Templo Romano to see some magnificent Roman ruins. 

Practical Information: Cordoba is one hour from Malaga by train and two hours from Madrid. 

18. Tour The Art Museums

Spain has produced some of the most influential artists in history and the country’s museums are stocked with their art. It’s never a bad idea to enter a Spanish art museum, especially if you enjoy 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 some of the most famous in the country, but certainly not the only ones worth your time. The museums are stocked with paintings by Dali, Goya, Picasso, Velázquez, El Greco, and other iconic artists.  

Insider Tip: Pick up the Paseo del Arte Pass to save money on the best museums in Madrid and to skip the lines. 

Practical Information: The best art museums in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Malaga. 

19. Party in Ibiza

Ibiza has a long-standing reputation as a party town. Some of the best nightclubs in Europe have summer outposts on the island, where legendary parties take place. And if that sounds like your kind of vacation, Ibiza is a destination not to be missed. In addition to some of the best nightlife in Spain, Ibiza also has excellent historic landmarks, stunning nature, and many museums. And let’s not forget about the sandy beaches and five-star resorts, which are the main reason for its popularity. 

Practical Information: Ibiza is accessible by flights and ferries from the mainland. Ferries from Valencia are the quickest, taking 5-8 hours to reach the Balearic Island. 

20. Hop to Mallorca 

Mallorca Island is another popular vacation destination in Spain. It’s accessible by ferries and flights, most of which take you to Palma, the island’s capital. With sprawling sandy beaches, excellent hotel resorts, and Gothic architecture, the city is a must during any island hopping adventure in Spain. 

Mallorca Cathedral is the city’s most famous landmark, with its tall Gothic towers and a wrought-iron canopy designed by none other than Gaudí. Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Llotja de Palma, Bellver Castle, and Arab Baths are some of the other historic attractions in Palma. 

Practical Information: Palma is accessible by ferries from Barcelona, Valencia, and Ibiza. Ferries from mainland Spain take 7-9 hours to reach Mallorca. 

21. Revel in Valencia’s Charm

If you can visit only a few cities during your time in Spain, prioritize Valencia. The captivating city is a wonderful blend of the old and new, epitomizing everything Spain is known for. It’s got the best food (hello Valencian paella), medieval landmarks, modern architecture, and fabulous beaches. 

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is one of Valencia’s most famous attractions. The modern science center is considered one of the 12 Treasures of Spain, and its exhibits are utterly fascinating. And on the other end of the spectrum is Baños del Almirante, the only remaining Moorish building in the city. 

Practical Information: Valencia is accessible by train 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 national park in Spain. It’s situated in the north, spanning 11 villages and 3 regions. With forests, lakes, caves, and tall mountains, the park is a place of surreal scenery. 

The national park is best known for its countless hiking trails. Ranging in difficulty from very easy to extremely challenging, anyone can find a suitable hiking trail in Picos de Europa. The park is especially popular among mountaineers in Spain, who revel at the chance to conquer another summit. 

Practical Information: Entrance to Picos de Europa National Park is free of charge.  

23. Watch A Live Football Game

Football is the national sport of Spain, and the number one spectator sport in the country. The Real Madrid and FC Barcelona derby is a legendary event that has fans of the sport glued to their TVs throughout the world. 

Santiago Bernabeu (Madrid) and Camp Nou (Barcelona) stadiums are as iconic as the Alhambra, and stadium tours are a must for fans of the sport. Witnessing a live match along with thousands of passionate locals is an incredible experience, one that could convert anyone into a football fan. Even me. 

Practical Information: Tickets for La Liga matches have an average price of 125€. 

24. See The Hanging Houses in Cuenca

The Hanging Houses are three houses built into the rock face in Cuenca. They’re also known as Casas Colgadas de Cuenca and are one of the most interesting landmarks in central Spain. 

The balconies of the houses jut out over the gorge. It’s a dramatic image, but I must admit I was just a little bit underwhelmed. I blame the attraction’s name for setting high expectations. 

Overall, I was glad to visit Cuenca because the town is vibrant, charming, and steeped in history. And it’s a bit of a hidden gem, without the hordes of tourists you normally see in the bigger cities. 

Practical Information: Cuenca is an hour from Madrid by train. It’s free to visit the Hanging Houses. 

25. Paleolithic Paintings in the Cave of Altamira

A road trip in northern Spain is not complete without a visit to Altamira Cave. The complex is famous around the world for prehistoric paintings on the walls, which are more than 36,000 years old. 

Well, you can’t go inside the cave any longer but you can see cave findings and replicas of the paintings at a local museum. I found it mind-bending to stare at paintings created by Neanderthals, and it altered my perspective on the history of our species. 

Practical Information: Altamira Cave is in Santillana del Mar. Entrance to the museum site is 3€.

26. Hot Air Balloon Rides in Segovia

Segovia is a small town close to Madrid known for hot air balloon rides and a Roman aqueduct. It’s actually one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world, and if you’re into Roman ruins, this town is a must in Spain. 

The town boasts interesting historic architecture with Romanesque churches and a Gothic cathedral. Alcázar de Segovia, a medieval castle, offers panoramic views of rolling hills and central Spain’s natural beauty. 

Practical Information: Segovia is 50-60 minutes from Madrid by train. 

Frequently Asked Questions Me

What Is The Number One Attraction in Spain? 

La Sagrada Familia is the number one attraction in Spain. Barcelona’s cathedral is world-famous, despite being unfinished more than a century after construction began.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Spain? 

You should stay in Spain for 10-15 days to thoroughly explore the country. For shorter trips, it’s best to stay in one city and explore the region on day trips. 

How to Spend 7 Days in Spain?

Spend 7 days in Spain by visiting Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Toledo, and Valencia. You can stay in Madrid the entire time and explore the capital in three days, and the rest of the cities on day trips. 

What Is The Best Part of Spain To Visit For The First Time? 

Barcelona is the best destination for first-timers in Spain. The Catalan city offers gorgeous architecture and many iconic Spanish landmarks, including the legendary Sagrada Familia. 

Where To Stay in Spain 

Stay in Madrid for at least 3-4 days because the capital offers so much to discover. Barcelona is also a great city to be in for a while, with excellent food and lively streets. For travel in the south of Spain, stay in Malaga for the best experience. Here are some of the best hotels in Spain for all budgets: 

• Posada del Dragón is an affordable boutique hotel in Madrid’s city center. 
• Only You Hotel Malaga is an excellent five-star hotel with views of the sea in Malaga. 
• Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a luxury hotel with a rooftop swimming pool in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. 

Tips and Information for Visiting Spain

Best Time To Visit

Unless you’re traveling to Spain for a specific festival or event, any time of year is a good time to visit. I recommend spring or autumn for the most pleasant experience. 

Summer is the peak season for travel in Spain, especially in the popular tourist destinations, and that generally means large crowds and high hotel prices. Visit in the off-season to enjoy the nice weather but with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. 

Getting There

The largest airports in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca. All three are among the top 25 busiest airports in Europe and all offer public transport access to the city center by bus or train. 

Try to fly to Madrid. It’s got the best connections to other major urban centers and many smaller towns you can easily visit on day trips from Madrid . 

Getting Around

All the major cities in Spain are connected by trains and buses. If you’re in Madrid you can get pretty much anywhere in the country by public transport with just one or two changes. But the trains aren’t very fast and are often more expensive than local flights. 

Car rental is a good option for road trips in a specific region. Explore northern Spain in a car or drive down Costa del Sol for the ultimate freedom. But for quick trips between major Spanish cities, train travel is the fastest option.  

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least 10 days for a proper excursion in Spain, and even that’s for a condensed itinerary. Ideally, you would spend 15-20 days traveling around the country, staying for a few days in every major city. 

Madrid and Barcelona require at least three days each, while most other places can be toured in one or two days. 

So, there you have it, your complete guide to the best things to do in Spain. If you are planning a trip to Spain, you can choose one of these beautiful cities to make a base and book day trips to get out to explore more of the country. Have you been to Spain? What is your favorite place to visit?

Plan your Spain vacation with these valuable travel resources

• 23 Interesting and Fun Facts About Spain
• 25 Of The Best Things to Do in Marbella, Spain
• 24 of the Best Things to Do in Girona, Spain
• 16 Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit
• The Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain
• 26 Best Things to Do in Granada, Spain
• How to Visit Barcelona on a Budget
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona at Night

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

8 Life Lessons from the Camino de Santiago

Your Essential Guide: How to Rent a Car in Spain with Confidence

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Alhambra: Tips, Tricks and Must-Sees

About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Spain

Spain is one of the world’s biggest tourist destinations, welcoming over 83 million visitors in 2019. While many are attracted to the country’s sun, sea and sangria, there is much more to the country than its (amazing) beaches . We take a look at some of Spain’s must-visit attractions.

Sagrada família.

Barcelona architect Antoni Gaudí began work on the Sagrada Familia in 1883 and it remains unfinished to this day. His other-worldly design, featuring his signature mosaics and modernist flourishes, is due to be completed in 2026, the centenary of Gaudí’s death.

The Alhambra

The magnificent Moorish fortress sitting on a hill above Granada is one of Spain’s most-visited tourist sites for good reason. Its beautiful mosaics, marble fountains and intricate detailing are some of the best-preserved examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

The Golden Triangle of art

Madrid’s golden triangle of art museums holds some of the world’s most famous works. From the Spanish masters of the Prado to Picasso’s masterpiece Guernica in the Reina Sofía and the eclectic collection of the Thyssen-Bornemisza, you can’t leave Madrid without discovering its rich artistic heritage.

Guggenheim Museum

Frank Gehry’s design for Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum has quickly become a classic of contemporary architecture since it was inaugurated in 1997. Gehry called upon the city’s industrial and seafaring heritage in the design of the museum, a giant, curved, boat-like structure made of titanium and glass.

Spain has the largest number of vineyards of any country in the world, and nowhere are they more beautiful than in the Rioja wine region. It’s the ideal place to discover Spanish wine, tour some vineyards and explore the beautiful Spanish landscape.

Mosque of Córdoba

One of Spain’s stand-out architectural gems, Córdoba’s Mezquita , now its cathedral, is an excellent example of the grandeur and intricacy of Islamic architecture, and of the Moorish influence on southern Spain.

Seville Cathedral

It is the largest Gothic church in the world, and has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1987, along with Seville’s Alcázar palace, originally built by the city’s Moorish kings. The Alcázar is renowned as one of the best examples of mudéjar architecture in Spain and is still used today by the royal family as their Seville base, making it the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe.

City of Arts and Sciences

A dried-out river bed in Valencia was given a new lease of life by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava when he built the City of Arts and Sciences , a cultural and entertainment complex comprising a series of domed glass buildings housing a planetarium, science museum and an open-air aquarium that is the largest in Europe.

Retiro Park

Madrid’s famous park began life as a royal garden, and was opened to the public at the end of the 19th century. A popular destination for locals, especially at the weekends, it is a great place for picnics, sport or just getting away from the hectic pace of city life.

Royal Palace of Madrid

The largest royal palace in Western Europe is a great example of Baroque architecture and, unlike other European palaces, is not protected by a huge gate; you can walk right up to it. Nowadays, it is only used by the royal family for state occasions (they live in the more modest Zarzuela Palace on the outskirts of Madrid), but it is open to the public.

The shell, named for its shape, is one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches. The picturesque cove looks out towards Mount Urgull, where the bay meets the Bay of Biscay.

The Aqueduct

This feat of Roman engineering looms large over the city of Segovia , also home to the magical Alcázar, which started life as Moorish fort in the 12th century. Its turrets and hilltop location could be straight out of Disneyland .

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

The end point for the thousands of pilgrims who embark on the Camino de Santiago each year, Santiago’s cathedral is said to hold the remains of St James. Expect jubilant scenes in the square in front of the cathedral, as walkers take the very last few steps of their long journey.

Mount Teide

The highest point in Spain, this volcano in the Canary Islands is part of an other-worldly landscape more akin to Mars than Spain. Part of the Teide National Park , the whole area is beautiful and ideal for hiking.

Toledo’s Old Town has a rich history of coexistence between Christians, Jews and Muslims, leaving a rich cultural and monumental heritage. Sitting high on a hill above the Tagus River, the city is a stunning sight. Its winding, narrow alleyways, Jewish quarter, Gothic cathedral and Moorish architectural influences are fascinating to explore.

Balearic Island

Whether it’s laid-back Menorca, family-friendly Mallorca or hedonistic Ibiza, Spain’s Balearic Islands are a popular holiday destination for all ages. From partying the night away in Ibiza’s clubs to cycling around Mallorca and lazing on the islands’ incredible beaches, however you prefer to spend your holidays, the Balearics are the perfect location.

The old quarter of this Andalusian town is separated from the rest of the town by a huge gorge, spanned by a bridge that is one of Spain’s most-photographed structures.

Separating Spain from the rest of Europe, the mighty Pyrenees stretch nearly 500km (311mi) from the Bay of Biscay to the Mediterranean Sea. A great place for hiking and other sporting activities, they are one of Spain’s most beautiful natural wonders.

Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor

One of Spain’s most beautiful squares, Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor is, like many other buildings in the city, constructed from sandstone. It is a good example of the city’s Baroque architecture and is a popular meeting place, lined with cafés and restaurants.

The Tabernas Desert

Tabernas Desert, in southeastern Spain, doesn’t feel like Spain at all. Its arid landscapes have doubled for the Wild West in films such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966), and since many spaghetti westerns used it for filming in the 1960s, it has become a favourite location for Hollywood shoots. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

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All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Top 60 Spain Tourist Attractions

• ATTRACTIONS

Best attractions to see in Spain

Our team of local experts has hand-picked the top tourist Attractions in Spain  you do not want to miss.  We have grouped the attractions into different themes so you can focus on your top areas of interest. Besides the general ranking, you will also find links to the top attractions at Spain´s top cities. 

Due to its history and the work made to preserve both its historical  heritage  and its natural parks, Spain is one of the countries in the world with more  Unesco certified sites .  

Top attractions in Andalusia

Almaden Mines

Check out our guide to the Almaden Mines one of the largest mercury deposits in the world and have been in operation ever since Roman times. … Read More

Doñana National Park

Doñana national park is perhaps the most famous of Spain’s National Parks. the is truly no other place like it on Earth. This area of Spain seems to have hit the “nature lottery”. Because of its location, it’s proximity to the ocean, the river that crosses through the park, the weather, etc. Doñana is home to 4 different ecosystems. The park features dunes, marshlands, mediterranean forest and grasslands.

This unique convergence of conditions make it the perfect home to an incredible number of species. In particular, migratory birds flock to doñana in droves making it a bird watching heaven. It is also home to a great number of endangered Spanish species like the Iberian Lynx and the Imperial Eagle. The park spans over 54.252 hectares between Huelva and Sevilla and became a national park in 1969. … Read More

White villages in Spain

One of the best experiences to enjoy in Spain is to leave the big cities and get to know the small villages spread throughout Spain´s geography. The white villages in Spain is the most famous option. Located in Andalusia, southern Spain, these villages are located in fantastic landscapes and share white in their houses as a way to fight against the heat. In this guide we recommend you a road trip amongst some of the most beautiful white villages in Spain. … Read More

El Caminito del Rey in Malaga

El Caminito del Rey or the King’s Path is a famous pathway through the mountains of Málaga, Andalusia, connecting Chorro Falls and Gaitanejo Falls, reserved for only the most adventurous hikers. It has become today a top tourist attractions. Learn about this amazing attraction in this guide. … Read More

The Real Alcazar of Seville

A complete visitors guide to the Real Alcazar of Seville, one of the most important sites to visit while visiting the Andalusian capital. … Read More

La Giralda and Cathedral in Seville

A full guide and breakdown of one of the essential monuments to visit in Spain: La Giralda and Cathedral in Seville. Check it out! … Read More

Plaza de España in Seville

The Plaza de España in Seville is one of the city’s most emblematic, and beautiful sites that has been featured prominently in several movies. … Read More

Patios De Córdoba Visitors Guide

Guide to visit the world-famous Patios De Córdoba which is one of the essential stops when visiting this magical city in Southern Spain. … Read More

The Great Mosque of Córdoba

Guide to visit the Great Mosque of Córdoba, one of the essential sites to visit while traveling to Spain. Find tickets, tours and offers … Read More

El Albaicin in Granada

The Albaicín in Granada retains both the original urban physiognomy as well as various medieval buildings. Get ready to enjoy smoe of the most amazing views in the world! … Read More

La Alhambra palace in Granada

Nowadays the Alhambra Palace in Granada is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Spain’s and Europe’s culture. The number of visits to the Alhambra Palace sky rocketed years ago and reached a whooping two million people per year. … Read More

Ronda Bullfighting Ring

The Ronda Bullfighting is located in the beautiful city of Ronda, located near Málaga in southern Spain. The bullring is widely considered the oldest bullfighting ring in Spain and definitely one of the most beautiful and majestic in the world … Read More

Top attractions in Madrid

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez and Gardens

Check out our complete visitors guide to the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and it lush gardens. This spectacular estate is just a short drive from Madrid. … Read More

Valle de los Caidos

El Valle de los Caidos or the Valley of the Fallen is a religious structure commissioned by General Francisco Franco honoring fallen soldiers of the Spanish civil war, located near El Escorial, 50 minutes outside of Madrid. … Read More

El Escorial in Madrid, Spain

El Escorial is one of Spain´s top tourist attractions. This massive building serves as a church, monastery, palace… El Escorial is one of the most popular day tours to enjoy from Madrid. … Read More

Estadio Santiago Bernabeu- Madrid

The santiago Bernabeu stadium is home to one of the best football clubs in the world: Real Madrid. Learn all about it in this article … Read More

Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid

Guide to visit the world-famous Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid. Recommendations, best tours and deals to enjoy the perfect visit … Read More

Prado Museum in Madrid

A visitors guide to visit the world-famous Prado Museum in Madrid. Recommendations, best tours and deals to enjoy the perfect visit … Read More

Top attractions in Barcelona

La Barceloneta

Check out our full guide to La Barceloneta, Barcelona’s famous urban beach. There are a ton of tourist traps, and here you find how to avoid them. … Read More

Port Aventura

Check out our full guide to Port Aventura one of the premier amusement parks in all of Spain, and a great place to visit if you have kids. … Read More

Estadio Camp Nou – Barcelona

Check out our full guide to the Camp Nou, the legendary soccer stadium, home of Barcelona FC, one of the best clubs in Europe of all time. … Read More

Casa Mila – La Pedrera

Check out our guide to Casa Mila, one of the essential sites to visit in Barcelona. Casa Mila is one of the houses in Barcelona designed by Gaudi. … Read More

Montserrat Monastery

Check out our full guide to the Montserrat Monastery near Barcelona. The monastery itself and the location are both spectacular, and worth visiting. … Read More

La Boquería Market in Barcelona

Check out our full guide to La Boquería Market in Barcelona, one of the essential stops if you are visiting Barcelona, filled with tasty goodies. … Read More

Palau de la Música Catalana

Check out our guide to the Palau de la Música Catalana, Barcelona’s most amazing concert hall, and one of the most important monuments to visit. … Read More

Park Güell in Barcelona

Park Güell in Barcelona is the cities most famous park in Barcelona, a definitely one of the sites that is absolutely a most visit while in the city, … Read More

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is one of the most iconic monuments in Spain, and one of the most visited sites in the world. Check out our guide! … Read More

Las Ramblas in Barcelona

Complete gudie to enjoy Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is one of the icons in Barcelona. A long street which is a favorite amongst both locals and tourists alike. La Rambla is probably the best well-known street in Spain. This street is both known as La Rambla or Las Ramblas. In this guide to Las Ramblas, you will find information on the best attractions in the street, top things to enjoy, the best itineraries to enjoy la Rambla during your stay in Barcelona, and also top attractions nearby. … Read More

Top attractions in Valencia

La Albufera

Check out our full guide to the La Albufera in Valencia. a spectacular as nature park, located just south of the center of the city of Valencia. … Read More

L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia

Check out our full guide to the L’Oceanogràfic in Valencia. L’Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium in Europe and an essential visits while in Valencia … Read More

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

Check out our guide to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, an essential stop if you are visiting Valencia. Here you will find all the info you need. … Read More

Top attractions in Northern Spain

Burgos Cathedral

Check out our full guide to the world famous Burgos Cathedral, one of the most spectacular gothic-style cathedrals in Spain, and perhaps the world. … Read More

Cíes Islands

This chain of small islands are located off the coast of Galicia in northwestern Spain. The go from the Vigo estuary to Arousa. Within the park there are four distinct archipelagos the islands of Cíes, Ons, Sálvora y Cortegada. The islands are gorgeous, with a unique ecosystem, but the true richness of the park is located underwater.

The biodiversity of sea dwelling creatures in this coastal area is almost overwhelming. In addition, many legends and rumors swirl around these islands, making the all the more interesting and mysterious. The park, created in 2002, spans over 7.200 maritime hectares and 1.194 hectares on land. … Read More

Caves of Altamira in Cantabria

Check out our guide to the famous Caves of Altamira in Cantabria. These spectacular caves feature some of the oldest cave painting ever found. … Read More

Picos de Europa National Park

The Picos of Europa National park is located in Northern Spain and spills over into three different regions: Cantabria, Asturias and León. The Picos de Europa are an abrupt and imposing group of mountains, that at their closest, are just 15 km from the ocean. Within this natural fortress there are forests, lakes and hidden villages with centuries old traditions.

This legendary area of Spain became a national park in 1918 and spans over 67.000 hectares. … Read More

La Concha beach in San Sebastian

A visitors guide to visit la la Concha Beach in San Sebastián. Discover this superb beach. Tips to enjoy it. Tickets and Tours with offers … Read More

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world. Located in Northern Spain, in Galicia, this is a must visit. … Read More

Playa de Rodas, Cies islands, Galicia

A visitors guide to visit la Playa de Rodas in Galicia. Discover this superb beach in Northern Spain. Find all the tips to enjoy it to the fullest. … Read More

Best beaches in Northern Spain

Enjoy a perfect itinerary to discover the Best beaches in Northern Spain. Enjoy this guide to build the perfect roadtrip or day trip … Read More

The Best Pintxos In San Sebastian. The Ultimate Guide

We have put together this complete guide to enjoy pintxos in San Sebastian. We do not only cover the bar, address and recommended pintxo, but also some cultural aspects to ensure you feel at ease and take the most out of the experience. Excellent bars and a selection of Top rated tours to enjoy “pintxo land” … Read More

Playa de las catedrales, a must visit in Northern Spain

La Playa de las Catedrales is a fantastic beach in Galicia, Northern Spain. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country it can be described as a spectacular, other worldly beach hand-crafted by mother nature herself. … Read More

Guggenheim musem in Bilbao

Guide to visit the world-famous Guggenheim museum in Bilbao. Recommendations, best tours and deals to enjoy the perfect visit to his masterpiece that forever changed the city of Bilbao … Read More

Top attractions in central Spain

Roman Theater of Mérida

Check out our full guide to the Roman Theater of Mérida. The Roman Theater of Mérida is one of the most spectacular roman ruins sites in Spain. … Read More

Walls of Avila

The Walls of Avila are a spectacular sight to see. They’re in a pristine state of conservation and have been surrounding the city of Avila for centuries. … Read More

Roman aqueduct of Segovia

The roman aqueduct of Segovia’s landmarks and ranks amongst Spain’s top attractions. It is with no doubt one of the finest structures in the world from Roman times … Read More

Alcazar de Segovia

The Alcazar de Segovia is one Segovia’s top attractions. Segovia, 1 hour drive north-west of Madrid, is a mid-sized city which offers amazing heritage and excellent gastronomy. The Alcazar de Segovia is amongst the most visited attractions in Spain. … Read More

Toledo Cathedral: La Catedral Primada

The Toledo Cathedral, known as La Primada is the main cathedral of Toledo. Check out our full guide to this spectacular cathedral. … Read More

Top attractions in Canary islands

Timanfaya National Park

Timanfya national park is the 4th national park on this list located in the Canary Island Archipelago, on the island of Lanzarote. The landscape on the island is truly unlike anywhere else on the planet. The island is desolate and looks more like what you would think Mars looks like.

The wildlife that can be found has adapted to this harsh environment. At the center of the park you can visit the active volcano and even enjoy a meal cooked only with the heat that seeps out from the crater. 5.107 hectares of otherworldly beauty. … Read More

Teide national park in Tenerife

Teide National Park is one of Spain’s 15 national parks and stands out for several different reasons. It is home to the tallest peak in Spain, Mount Teide, that stands 3,718 meters and, its considered to be one of the 12 treasures of Spain and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also Spain’s largest national park (over 19,000 hectares), it’s the most visited national park and one of the oldest national parks in Spain … Read More

Top attractions in Balearic islands

Top attractions by theme and in top cities of spain.

Spain Soccer Stadiums

Spain has a special passion for football. Children join their parents at early ages and families and friends gather at the stadiums to support their local teams. The stadiums are well-known and icons on many cases of towns and cities. … Read More

Food Markets In Madrid

Top Food Markets In Madrid. A selection with the top picks and in-depth guides with tricks, insider tips and special deals. Check it out! Toledo is an amazing destination and an open-air museum. a Unesco heritage site, Toledo is full of churches, or museums besides its top attractions. In the city of 3 cultures, the amount of heritage you will discover is astonishing. … Read More

Water Sports In Spain

Check out our full guide to Water Sports In Spain. If you are looking to do something more than just chilling on the beach this list is for you. … Read More

Spain national parks

In this article, we break down the best national parks to enjoy in Spain. The country has a huge and diverse number of protected natural areas that can be enjoyed all year round. Fauna and flora lovers alike will find an amazing and unknown part of Spain in this guide … Read More

Spain Royal Palaces

In this article you will discover the Royal Palaces of Spain. Importsant buildings to understand the country´s history, they are located in different cities throughout the country and are amongst the most visited attractions in Spain. … Read More

The best art museums in Spain

Discover the best art museums in Spain in this guide where we cover the most important galleries that all art lovers should plan to visit during a vacation in Spain … Read More

Water Sports In Tenerife

Check out our full guide to Water Sports In Tenerife. If you are looking to do something more than just chilling on the beach this list is for you. … Read More

Dolphin And Whale Watching In Tenerife

Check out our full guide to dolphin and whale watching in Tenerife. The Canary Islands a a premiere location for dolphin and whale watching. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Seville

Check out our list of the top tourist attractions of Seville and discover everything this amazing city of Southern Spain has to offer. Toledo is an amazing destination and an open-air museum. a Unesco heritage site, Toledo is full of churches, or museums besides its top attractions. In the city of 3 cultures, the amount of heritage you will discover is astonishing. … Read More

Theme parks in Spain

In this article, we break down the best zoos and amusement parks in Spain. Whether you are traveling with your family and you want to plan the perfect, action-packed vacation or you just have an extra day and want to get your blood pumping, you in the right place. Our expert guides have compiled the ultimate list of the best amusement parks and zoos you will find in all of Spain. … Read More

Cathedrals in Spain

The cathedrals in Spain are part of the most important tourist attractions in the country. Some of them are totally out of the most visited parts of the country and, as a matter of fact, the 2 largest cities in the country, Madrid and Barcelona, do not hold the most impressive cathedrals in the country…. All 88 cathedrals but one (the Cathedral in Lleida which was transformed into a museum) provide religious service today. … Read More

Art Museums in Madrid

Madrid and its “Paseo del Arte” (The local name given to the distance between the top 3 art galleries in Madrid (The Prado Museum, the Thyssen Bornemiza, and the Reina Sofía Museum) set Madrid amongst the top art destinations in the world. Enjoying art is one of the top things to do in Madrid.

Besides these 3 top museums, there are other smaller art galleries which would stand out in most cities in the world: The Real Academis de San Fernando, the Lazaro Galdiano museum he Casa Sorolla museum and the Cerralbo Museum. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Valencia

Check out our expert local guides picks of the top tourist attractions in Valencia to plan the perfect visit to this beautiful coastal city. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Salamanca

Discover the best tourist attractions in Salamanca and how to organise your time to get the most out of all the things Salamanca offers.

Salamanca is located at a bit more than two hour´s drive from Madrid and it holds some of Spain´s top monuments!. It is a must-see destination in Spain so in case you plan a trip in central Spain. We love the atmosphere at this University city which turns out to be one of the most vibrant cities during the weekends … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Santiago

There are many reasons to visit Santiago de Compostela in addition to it being the final destination of the pilgrimage. Besides its main tourist attractions of monuments and museums, the city has an incessant cultural agenda with arts, entertainment and leisure time activities offered throughout the year such as music, lectures, theater, cinema, concerts, exhibitions and festivals. … Read More

The best beaches in Southern Spain

A selection of the best beaches in Southern Spain. Our expert local guides have hand-picked the best of the best in all of the south. Check it out. … Read More

Festivals in Spain

Our curated list of the best festivals in Spain. Spain is well known for its easy going ways and it is home to some of the best festivals in the world. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Segovia

You are going to spend 1 day in Segovia during your vacation in Spain and you are looking for ideas and the best attractions in Segovia to ensure you make the most out of your time. Let us help you with our list of top things to enjoy in Segovia

Segovia is located at a bit more than one hour´s drive from Madrid and it holds some of Spain´s top sights!. It is a must-see destination in Spain so in case you hesitate to visit we strongly recommend you do. You will not regret it!

In this section we provide you with the top Segovia tourist attractions … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Malaga

Malaga is a top destination. beaches, mild weather and excellent connections bring millions of tourists each year. The city has evovled a lot in recent years and it is a top cultural and gastronomic destination today, with vibrant nightlife and may attractions worth visiting. Discover Malaga with this guide covering its top attractions … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Barcelona

Discover in this comprehensive guide the most important tourist attractions in Barcelona. You will discover the top sights, top art museums, parks,food markets, beaches and, of course, the most reknown masterpieces from Gaudi … Read More

Best hikes in Tenerife

A curated guide to the best hikes in Tenerife. Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Islands and hiking is a great way to experience it. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Bilbao

The top tourist attractions in Bilbao to enjoy in 1 or 2 days. A list with the most obvious ideas and some other top sights you should not miss. Discover the best sights in Bilbao, curated by a team of local experts … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Toledo

One of the top problems for visitors to Toledo is to decide what to visit first. This can become a problem for day visitors to the city of Toledo. Toledo is one of the top day trips from Madrid and it is also included in a good number of coach tours to Spain. If you are going to spend 1 day in Toledo during your vacation in Spain and you are looking for ideas to ensure you make the most out of your time.

Toledo is an amazing destination and an open-air museum. a Unesco heritage site, Toledo is full of churches, or museums besides its top attractions. In the city of 3 cultures, the amount of heritage you will discover is astonishing. … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Cordoba

The most important tourist attractions in Cordoba. There is so much heritage in Cordoba besides the Mosque! A comprehensive and curated list of sights in Cordoba with tips and deals … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Granada

Top 60 Spain tourist attractions. A selection with the top picks and information on tourist attractions in all of Spain´s top cities. Complete visitor´s guides to each of Spain´s top attractions with ideas, tips and special deals … Read More

Top Tourist Attractions In Madrid

Top attractions to enjoy in Madrid. The capital of Spain is home to some fascinating sights. Art galleries, palaces, romantic parks, soccer stadiums, tapas districts…. The list goes on and on. Discover on this guide the best attractions to enjoy in Madrid. … Read More

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The 17 best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

Feb 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Here are Barcelona's unmissable experiences © Jordi Salas / Getty Images

Barcelona is Spain 's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and an incredible food scene.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture , thriving nightlife and urban beaches . With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Start your travel to-do list now with our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona .

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the  Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Construction work paused during the pandemic but has resumed and the building is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026.

Planning tip:  The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get  very  busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful, whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well known are  Casa Batlló , with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull-and-bone-effect balconies, and  La Pedrera , with its undulating stone facade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include  Casa Vicens , the first house he ever designed;  Palau Güell , which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the  Torre Bellesguard .

3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic ) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

The neighborhood is scattered with century-old shops, small bars and charming cafes. Some highlights include the striking Plaça Reial, fringed by cafes and palm trees; Plaça Sant Jaume, home to the grand Palau de la Generalitat; and the impressive  La Catedral .

Planning tip:  Many parts of the Gothic Quarter are known for late-night bars and clubs that are still going well into the morning. Perfect if you want to dance until dawn, but not the best neighborhood to stay in if you're traveling with young kids or those who appreciate an early night.

4. Explore Barcelona's food markets

La Boqueria might be the most famous of Barcelona’s food markets, but each neighborhood has its own, and there are several excellent ones to choose from. La Boqueria is the oldest and one of the most atmospheric, but in recent years, more stalls have given over to things such as tropical fruit shakes and novelty candy rather than traditional produce.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern  Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multicolored wavy roof or the grand  Mercat de Sant Antoni  with 250 stalls.

5. Soak up the sun on Barcelona's city beaches

Whatever time of year you visit Barcelona , the beaches won’t disappoint. Even in winter, it can be sunny enough to sit outside and enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, while summer offers everything from sunbathing and swimming to water sports.

The city boasts a 5km (3-mile) stretch of coastline, home to nine different beaches. There’s  Sant Sebastià with its range of upscale restaurants, Somorrostro lined with hip nightclubs and Nova Icària with a watersports center and beach volleyball.

6. Venture up Montjuïc

Montjuïc is the green hill to the south of the city, home to the Olympic Park, as well as numerous museums and gardens. Rising from Plaza d’Espanya, you'll first see the grand sets of stairs and fountains cascading down from the magnificent palace housing the  Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya . Behind that is the huge Olympic Stadium and the rest of the Olympic Park. 

Planning tip:  The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya has a terrace that offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. The open-air bar means you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the view.

Explore Montjuic effortlessly with  GetYourGuide . Book your tour today.

7. Snack on some tapas

When hunger pangs arrive in the afternoon or early evening, take advantage of the pre-dinner tapa. This means heading to the local favorite for a bite of anchovies, sausage, squid, wild mushrooms, roasted peppers or dozens of other tempting morsels. Wine, cava and beer all make fine accompaniments.

Planning tip: Many tapas spots are lively stand-around-the-bar affairs. When it's time for a change of scenery, barcelonins  make their way to dinner or just head to another tapas bar and skip the sit-down formality altogether.

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23, and elements of the city undoubtedly influenced his pieces, from the colorful but simply painted frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the imaginative trencadís -style mosaics (pre-Cubist some say) of Gaudí. The Museu Picasso 's setting adds to the appeal, as do the buzzy, history-rich surrounding streets of El Born.

Explore Museu Picasso effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona plays a prominent role in the city's imagination. Heading to a football match at Camp Nou between September and May is the best way to catch a bit of Barcelona fever, but watching it on screen in a bar can be just as much fun, depending on the crowd. 

Planning tip: Even if you can't make it to a game, the interactive Barça Stadium Tour and Museum experience takes you through the locker rooms and onto the field, hallowed ground for many Catalans.

Transform your visit to Camp Nou by  booking with GetYourGuide.

10. Experience Barcelona's famous nightlife

A night in Barcelona holds limitless possibilities. Start with sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace or sink your heels into the sand at a rustic-chic beachside xiringuito . As darkness falls, the city transforms with buzzing squares and live music, and around midnight the bars fill up.

Pick from old-school taverns, plush lounges in lamp-lit medieval chambers, sleek cocktail dens, boisterous cava bars, basements churning out brassy jazz and more. If you're still standing at 3am, hit the clubs and keep going until dawn.

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

Sure, the leafy 1.2km (0.75-mile) pedestrian boulevard of  La Rambla  that stretches toward the sea is the most touristed spot in town – at times, you can barely push through the crowds. But pay a visit first thing in the morning and you'll see that beyond the souvenir shops and craft sellers, it's a pure sensory overload.

Open-air cafes, fragrant flower stands and a much-overlooked mosaic by Miró dot the pavement, while key venues line both sides of the street, including the elegant Gran Teatre del Liceu , the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria and numerous galleries. Several other barris , such as El Poblenou, have their own attractive rambles , too.

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Barcelona is a great foodie city, known throughout the world for its innovative chefs and creative cuisine. While you’ll find tapas bars everywhere, be sure to sample some local Catalan dishes, too.

Before you dine, join in l’hora del vermut at a typical vermouth bar, which pairs the fortified wine with bites of pickled anchovies and olives to whet the appetite. Follow it up with traditional Catalan dishes, such as botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (roasted red peppers, onions and eggplant) and crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée). Sample the cuisine at  Casa Delfín .

13. Celebrate during festival time

Because Barcelona has a festival almost every other month, it won’t be hard to make your trip to the city coincide with one. There are the patron-saint festivals of Santa Eulalia and La Mercé in February and September, respectively, La Diada de Sant Jordi in April (when people give each other gifts of books and roses to celebrate St George) and the fire festival of St Joan in mid-June.

Some of the main features of Catalan festivals include the castellers  (human towers), huge parading giants and correfocs , where firework-wielding devils dance through the streets.

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

Joan Miró, the city’s best-known 20th-century native son, bequeathed this art foundation to his hometown in 1971. The light-filled buildings are crammed with seminal works, from Miró’s timid early sketches to paintings from his last years.

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

One of the things that makes Barcelona so charming is its Modernista architecture. An artistic movement that affected everything from literature and art to architecture, the Modernisme era lasted from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.

You can identify these buildings by their bright colors, floral or botanical motifs, patterned tiles and curvy lines. Some of the best examples can be seen around the L'Eixample area, but you can also find them dotted all over the city. Besides Gaudí’s Modernista works, some of the best examples in the city are the  Palau de la Música Catalana and the  Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , both designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

On the up is the formerly industrial neighborhood of El Poblenou, northeast of the center. Vacant warehouses are being reimagined as creative tech and design hubs, cafes, boutiques, bars and more.

17. Sip a drink at one of L'Eixample's rooftop bars

Admire Modernista marvels over a cocktail or vermouth. L'Eixample 's elegant streets conceal an array of hidden-away, view-laden open-air bars and cafes beloved by barcelonins , many of them within swish hotels but open to all. 

This article was first published Feb 27, 2020 and updated Feb 12, 2024.

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Top 10 Most-Visited Attractions in Spain

Spain is a modern traveler, traveler’s gateway to the century-old fortresses, cathedrals, Islam quarters, and forest of columns lining the skyline. The country exudes a vibrant local scenery that captivates millions of visitors every year. From the perfect blend of the past and modern world to the countless attractions in Spain , this destination truly carves deep into a wanderer’s heart.

A tour around Spain reveals the well-tucked cultural heritage sites and landmarks that are unique in the world. Combined with fun-loving locals, pristine blue Mediterranean waters, and delectable Spanish cuisine , travelers cannot wish for more.

The country’s tumultuous history and culture are some of the reasons why foreigners visit this place. Each region boasts a number of attractions, from museums, Middle Ages infrastructures, courtyards, and glittering beaches . Spain ‘sSpain’s main attractions are scattered in the country, but tourists can opt for a day trip to nearby cities before going to the far end north and south provinces.

Discover the top ten most-visited attractions in Spain .

Table of Contents

1. Museo del Prado, Madrid

There’sThere’s never a day that Museo del Prado is not full of gaping tourists. This museum houses the largest collection of Spanish and European art, from impressive 12th-century medieval works and avant-garde movements. Works of artists like Goya, Raphael, Rubens, and Velázquez can be found here.

The institute was established 200 years ago, collecting the precious works of artists ranging from Bosch, Titian, El Greco, and modern-day painters. First-time visitors surely visit this museum to witness the famous works of art like Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez and more.

The museum’s architecture lives up to its reputation, showcasing neoclassical details and design. Remnants of the original Crescenzi and Carbonel-designed elements are still intact, but interiors were renovated.

CHECK THIS OUT: Prado Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Madrid

2. Plaza Mayor, Madrid

The visit to Madrid is not complete without visiting the historic Plaza Mayor. This wide public space serves as the venue for various ceremonies, including the proclamation of a new king, burning of heretics, the canonization of saints, and chivalric tournaments.

Surrounding the plazas are alfresco cafes and restaurants that occupy tourists from around the world. Public entertainment also takes place in Plaza Mayor, often street performers and musicians. For shopping pleasures, the Plaza also has a ring of traditional shops and boutiques under its porticoes.

At the center of the Plaza lies the iconic statue of Felipe III, depicting King Philip III triumphantly riding his stallion. This is an iconic sight that gathers many first-time visitors.

3. Cuenca Cathedral, Cuenca

The Gothic architecture of Cuenca Cathedral is one of the top attractions in Spain . Originally built in the 12th century, this eye-catching landmark holds the precious remains of founding bishops and members of the Montemayor family.

Tourists visit this cathedral to see the 18th-century altar, Renaissance-style Arco de Jamete arch, and the intricately carved wood ceiling. The church also hosts art exhibitions and other private events. When visiting Cuenca, this cathedral is hard to miss because it is conveniently located on the central Plaza Mayor.

The tour consists of 37 different stops to discover artifacts and remains inside and surrounding the church. The gigantic arch gate leading to the cathedral is truly mesmerizing that travelers gather here to snap some photographs.

CHECK THIS OUT: From Madrid: Cuenca Cathedral and City Tour

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Cuenca

4. Ibiza Beaches, Ibiza

Out of the four main Balearic Islands, Ibiza is probably the most popular. Home to the best clubs and DJs, this island is considered the world party capital. It is many people’s dream wedding destination because of the sun-kissed beaches , stunning sunsets, and azure-blue waters.

Because of the island’s popularity, real estate moguls developed the area. From resorts to residential properties, the ultra-rich buy a piece of land here, mostly celebrities. With access to the mesmerizing beach, visitors couldn’t deny that Ibiza is one of the best Spain tourist attractions.

The island becomes crowded during summer, from late May to early October. Remaining months are perfect for laid-back visits, especially around November to January.

CHECK THIS OUT: Ibiza: Cala Salada Beach and Paella Cruise with Snorkelling

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Ibiza

5. La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Standing tall into the Barcelona skyline is the historic La Sagrada Familia , designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. The construction of this Roman Catholic church started in 1882 and is one of the most famous works of Gaudí. The basilica can fit about 14,000 people inside and measures 170 meters in height.

The Sagrada Familia generated a lot of attention due to its monumental architecture and dark motif. However, to avoid Gothic buttresses, the famous architect made the columns appear like tree trunks.

Each year, the basilica gracefully receives millions of tourists from around the world. It is considered one of the most visited monuments in Spain and the heart of Barcelona city .

CHECK THIS OUT: Barcelona: E-Bike Tour and Sagrada Familia Skip-the-Line

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Barcelona

6. El Escorial, Madrid

The historical monastery El Escorial is undeniably among the famous attractions in Spain . Located in the heart of Guadarrama Sierra, 50 km from Madrid, lies an architectural complex constructed in 1563. It houses the remains of the kings and queens regnant since Philip II up to the present.

Because of its historic significance, El Escorial is considered the most important architectural monument in Spain . It exhibits a monastery, church, royal palace , library, mausoleum, and a museum.

The Bourbon Suite is also a must-see in the palace, where Charles IV apartments are decorated in rare furnishings. The Picture Gallery also houses a large collection of paintings, including the works of Dürer, Tintoretto, Bosch, and El Greco.

CHECK THIS OUT: El Escorial & Basilica of the Valley 5-Hour Guided Tour

7. Alhambra Palace, Granada

The Medieval fortress situated on a plateau is Granada’sGranada’s very own Alhambra Palace. Constructed in the 14th century by Nasrid sultans, this infrastructure represented Spain ‘s civilization in the Middle Ages.

The grandeur of this palace is witnessed by millions of tourists visiting Granada for a cultural retreat. It is one-of-a-kind for good reasons, built with intricate detailing, mosaics, and marble fountains. The name lives up to its appearance due to the hue of the towers and walls.

The eight-century-old site is well-preserved to showcase the meaningful, historic influence of Islam in Gradana. Guided tours are provided for foreigners who want to explore the fortress.

CHECK THIS OUT: Granada: Alhambra & Palace of Charles V Tour

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Granada

8. The Great Mosque, Cordoba

Another finest existing Islamic architecture in Spain is The Great Mosque of Cordoba. Well known as the Mezquita, this mosque holds a significant status in ancient Islamic art and architecture. The beautiful whitewashed walls and beautiful patios around the old Juderia represent the Moorish atmosphere from ancient times.

The Mezquita is also famous for the forest of pillars inside the main hall. Originally, the site is a Roman temple, then converted to a Visigothic church before the Umayyad Moors built the mosque. To date, The Great Mosque of Cordoba is a top tourist attraction in Spain.

9. El Alcázar de Segovia, Segovia

Considered the world’s largest Gothic church, El Alcázar de Segovia is an example of mudéjar architecture in Spain. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site , this fortress is one of the oldest royal palaces still in use in Europe.

The construction of the palace began in 712 and continued after the conquest of King Pedro in the 1300s. Aside from the exterior, the rooms and salons are breathtaking with neo-Moorish details all over. The garden is also a must-see , nestling fragrant orange and lemon trees.

Tourists go to Segovia to witness the fairytale -like castle, which was rumored to have inspired Disney castles. At night, the palace lit up, standing out on top of the hill.

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Segovia

10. Park Güell, Barcelona

It is only in Barcelona where tourists can find a Gaudí public park over 17 hectares in size. Famous for the glamorous terrace, iconic entrance, and curved stone columns, this museum showcases some of Gaudí’s works. The museum houses the iconic Dragon Stairway, Hypostyle Room, Austria Gardens, and Laundry Room Portico.

Perfect for an outdoor stroll, the Park Güell receives an annual tourist count of around 12 million, who come here for the architectural wonder. The lush surroundings combined with unconventional infrastructures, this public park is considered a work of art.

UNESCO added Park Güell as a World Heritage Site in 1984, which served as one of the cultural assets existing today.

You can get more information from their website .

CHECK THIS OUT: Park Güell: Skip-the-Lines Guided Tour

When to visit

Spring is the perfect time to visit Spain because of the cool weather and a number of festivals like Semana Santa, Feria Del Caballo, Feria De Abril, Barcelona Beer Festival, Las Fallas De Valencia, and Cordoba Patios Festival.

Make sure to visit the best attractions in Spain between March to May to experience colorful festivals , a sea of fun-loving locals, and lesser crowds.

Check out these activities in Spain

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Barcelona is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions upon millions of visitors each year. So why is it so popular? Well, it has almost everything any holidaymaker would desire. Easy access, favorable weather conditions, attractive beaches and surrounding mountains, a buzzing nightlife, tasty local cuisine and it’s steeped in culture and history.

It’s also a sight-seeing wonderland, housing many recognizable monuments. Variety’s the word with Barcelona and the city has something for everyone; families, couples and singletons alike. There are the tourist attractions in Barcelona travelers shouldn’t miss if they ever decide to visit the Catalan capital:

Map of Barcelona

25. Monastery of Pedralbes

The quiet beauty of the Monastery of Pedralbes provides a safe harbor for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. This gothic monastery was built in 129y by Queen Elsenda who sought forgiveness for her sins. It is considered an outstanding example of Catalan gothic architecture.

Arched outer corridors overlook swaying palm trees. Its original occupants were Poor Clares, nuns from mostly noble families; they were charged with protecting the city. Some nuns still live in the monastery, which today houses the city museum.

24. Palau Guell

Barcelona is filled with significant buildings designed by noted architect Antoni Gaudi. A good place for visitors to begin their appreciation of his work is Palau Guell or Palace Guell. It’s one of his first major works, and sets the tone for his designs to follow.

Gaudi designed Palau Guell for an extremely wealthy resident. Because the tycoon entertained a lot, the house was designed around a central hall, with other rooms designed to fit the family’s needs. Gaudi’s use of space and lighting in the Palau Guell was innovative for its time.

23. Poble Espanyol

Built in 1929, Poble Espanyol is a huge open-air museum four times the size of FC Barcelona’s football pitch. The complex is composed of various sections, each of whom represent a specific Spanish region.

There is also a flourishing handicraft market which is perfect for souvenir shopping. Here you can wander from Andalusia to the Balearic Islands in the space of a couple of hours, visiting surprisingly good copies of Spain’s characteristic structures. The village also hosts the Fondation Fran Daurel, where you can enjoy an interesting collection by artists like Picasso and Miró.

22. Fundacio Joan Miro

Joan Miro was one of Barcelona’s most famous artists, a master who created works known around the world. Usually foundations are set up after a person dies to honor their ideas, but Miro created his own legacy by setting up the Fundacio Joan Miro himself.

It was designed to be a place where younger artists could explore contemporary art, with Miro’s own works providing the nucleus for this study. The foundation opened in a modern building in 1975 and is a good place to see a great collection of Miro’s work in one place.

21. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

Sitting atop a hill, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya looks more like a massive castle than an art museum, a museum that holds a king’s ransom in treasures. It is here, however, that visitors will find the greatest Catalan art from the 10th century to the 20th century.

Here visitors will find impressive Romanesque murals that graced church apses, and Gothic art from the era when Catalonia was expanding across the Mediterranean. The gallery also contains paintings by the great Spanish artists El Greco and Velasquez.

20. Arc de Triomf

The Arc de Triomf was constructed in 1888 to welcome international visitors to Barcelona’s Universal Exhibition, the world’s fair of its day. The massive decorative arch is located on the Passeig Lluís Companys, a promenade.

The classical style arch, now a famous Barcelona landmark, is noted for its sculptural decorations that are symbolic of Barcelona at that time. One frieze welcomes visitors to the exhibition, while reliefs extol agriculture, industry and commerce. The top of the arch features shields from Spain’s 49 provinces; they are topped by Barcelona’s coat of arms.

19. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

Travelers who are fond of art nouveau will definitely want to put Sant Pau Recinte Modernista on their Barcelona bucket. The former hospital, with a façade that resembles a church, is the top-ranked art nouveau site in Europe. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista was built in the first third of the 20th century as a hospital and healthcare research center.

It served this purpose for 100 years, and today houses a variety of international organizations. The complex, with underground tunnels connecting the building has a pavilion that is devoted to the history of medicine in Barcelona.

18. Placa de Catalunya

Every city has a big square where people congregate to celebrate, mourn or just see each other. NYC has Times Square, Beijing has Tiananmen Square and Barcelona has Placa de Catalunya. The city’s nerve center is a place to meet friends, sit on the grass or take a break from shopping at nearby stores.

Integral to the square are six sets of sculptures that represent the four capitals of Catalonia, labor and wisdom. The plaza opened in 1927 on land that once fronted the gates to a walled Barcelona.

17. Palau de la Musica Catalana

People don’t go to the Palau de la Musica Catalana just to hear music, they go to see the concert hall’s over-the-top ornate interior. While the exterior is impressive, it just can’t compare to the main concert hall with its glass-top ceiling.

Built in the early 1900s, the Palau de la Musica Catalana is a tourist attraction in itself, with its stained glass windows and massive chandeliers. The inside of the old hall has been compared to the interior of a Faberge egg. A smaller hall is more modern and subdued, but still opulent.

16. Tibidabo

Travelers who collect panoramic views should go to the top of Tibidabo, at 512 meters (1,880 feet) high the highest mountain overlooking Barcelona. The easiest way to get there is via Spain’s first funicular. But there’s more than just stunning views on this mountain top.

There’s the Sagra Cor church that took 60 years to build and is topped with a sculpture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Sharing space with this impressive church are an amusement park and a telecommunications tower. All three are visible from Barcelona below.

15. Parc de la Ciutadella

The Parc de la Ciutadella is a lot happier place today than when it was founded in 1714. After Philip V conquered Barcelona, he ordered a citadel – the largest in Europe – to be built by forced labor so he could maintain control over the Catalans.

Over the centuries it transformed into peaceful uses, becoming a major oasis of green in the city. Citadel Park was the site for the 1888 Universal Exhibition. Today it is home to a zoo, a small lake, the Museum of Natural Science, and Als Voluntaris Catalans, a sculpture honoring Catalans killed in World War I.

14. Barcelona Cathedral

Add Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, as it’s officially known, to the list of beautiful Gothic buildings in Barcelona. The church also known as Barcelona Cathedral or La Seu because it’s the seat of the archbishop.

The cathedral dates back to the 14th century and honors St. Eulalia, co-patron saint of Barcelona, who was killed by Romans by putting her in a knife-studded barrel and rolling her down the street. The entire church is ornate, with towers and spires reaching into the sky. It is a major tourist attraction and now boasts a gift shop that caters to visitors.

13. Museu Picasso

With over 4,000 works by the painter, the Museu Picasso houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.

In particular, the Museu Picasso reveals Picasso’s relationship with the city of Barcelona, a relationship that was shaped in his youth and adolescence, and continued until his death. The museum is housed in five adjoining medieval palaces in Barcelona’s La Ribera.

12. La Boqueria Market

Foodies may think they’ve died and gone to heaven when they visit La Boqueria Market, a colorful market (and tourist attraction) in the old town. Located just off La Rambla, the market dates back to 1297 when meat was sold at the city gates. More than meat is sold there today.

There’s an array of foods, from farm-fresh produce, seafood, spices and candies being sold by more than 200 stalls. Buy the fixings’ for a picnic lunch or eat at one of the many restaurants before continuing sightseeing.

11. Santa Maria del Mar

The beautiful Santa Maria del Mar (Saint Mary of the Sea) is an icon for Catalan Catholics. Construction of this massive church began in 1329 when Aragon King Alfonso IV laid the foundation cornerstone. It was finished in 1384, a prime example of Catalan Gothic architecture.

Though the outside seems severe, the inside more than compensates for this. Beautiful stained glass windows, high narrow columns and simplicity of design invoke feelings of spaciousness and serenity. Over the centuries, the cathedral has been damaged by earthquakes and fire, yet always regains its beauty.

10. Camp Nou

One for the sports fans, yet still one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. This stadium is home to formidable European football champions F.C. Barcelona.

With a capacity of 99,000 people, this breathtaking sporting arena is Europe’s largest. A tour of the ground is definitely worthwhile and you never know, you might be lucky enough to catch a game!

9. Montjuic

Montjuïc is a broad shallow hill with a relatively flat top to the southwest of the city center. The eastern side of the hill is almost a sheer cliff, giving it a commanding view over the city’s harbor immediately below. The top of the hill was the site of several fortifications, the latest of which remains today.

Another interesting sight is the Palau Nacional (National Palace), originally built as the central pavilion for the International Exhibition. The majestic building in neo-Baroque style is home to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC). Montjuïc is also home to a number of sports facilities built for the 1992 Olympics.

8. Casa Mila

Built between the years 1906 and 1910, Casa Milà (La Pedrera) was the last civil work designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. The colorful building is considered one of the artist’s most eccentric and enticing architectural creations with not one straight edge on the exterior.

Tours of the interior and the incredible roof structures are available. It also hosts a large exposition of Gaudi works, covering Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlio, not only La Pedrera itself.

7. Gothic Quarter

Old is good, especially when it’s the Gothic Quarter , located in the oldest part of Old Town Barcelona. Some say the quarter dates back 2,000 years, but what travelers will see today isn’t that old: a maze of narrow streets flanked by buildings from medieval times to the 19th century.

Travelers will see the Jewish Quarter, considered the Gothic Quarter’s prettiest section; walk the paths where a young Picasso went to school; eat at Can Culleretes, the oldest restaurant in Barcelona, dating to 1796, and shop at the colorful Boqueria market.

6. Barceloneta

Out of Barcelona’s seven different beaches, stretching over 4.5 km (2.8 miles) of coastline, Barceloneta probably tops them all. It is one of the most popular and is closest to the city center. Along the 1,100 meter (3,600 feet) sandy beach runs a walkway popular with joggers and cyclist.

Not surprisingly this place can get crowded, especially during the summer months when the beach bars open up and the beach quickly fills up with locals and tourist.

5. Font Magica

Font Màgica is a fountain located below the Palau Nacional on the Montjuïc hill and near the Plaça d’Espanya and Poble Espanyol de Barcelona. The fountain, like most of the surrounding developments, was constructed for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition.

On selected evenings, when the fountain is activated, it attracts hundreds of visitors who watch the spectacular display of light, water and music. At the same time, the Palau National is illuminated, providing a beautiful background.

4. Casa Batllo

It’s hard to find the words to describe Casa Batllo, perhaps because it looks like a carnival gone insane. One of architect Antoni Gaudi’s most famous buildings, Casa Batllo is a mish-mash of colors, building materials and what-have-you styles.

There’s a large onion-like dome that’s reminiscent of a mosque; a colorful wavy tiled roof line and lots of sculptures. Gaudi turned an nineteenth century building into Casa Batllo, sometimes called the “house of bones” because of the many jaws on one sculpture. It was a home without equal, but not one most people would feel comfortable living in.

3. Parc Guell

With other major works in the city including La Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, this has to be one of Antoni Gaudí’s most celebrated and it is certainly one of the most emblematic of Barcelona.

The area was originally meant to be a residential property development with Gaudi doing much of the planning and landscape design. Only two houses were built and the land was later sold to the city of Barcelona and turned into a park. It is home to the famous Salamander sculpture, as well as other buildings and structures designed by the architect. With stunning views of the city, this is a magical experience.

2. La Rambla

This is probably the city’s most famous street and is a bustling hive of activity. It is often called Las Ramblas, because it is actually a series of several different streets that all have a distinct feel.

Located just off Plaza Catalunya and leading right down towards the port and beach, visitors will find street performers, lots of bars and restaurants and the fabulous Boquería Market, a true feast for the eyes.

1. Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is the most popular attractions in Barcelona, attracting nearly 2.8 million visitors each year. It is a large and intricate basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi, a Catalan architect. Construction began in 1882 and continues to this day. The building is predicted to be completed within the next 30 years. It should be noted that this beautiful basilica has been funded completely by donations, as Gaudi had intended.

The design of La Sagrada Familia incorporates interpretations of many architectural styles, such as Arat Nouveau, Gothic and Catalan Modernism. Gaudi’s original plans called for a temple large enough to seat 13,000 people. Because he disliked straight lines, his towers were inspired by the peaks of Montserrat Mountain outside Barcelona, and had similar uneven lines.

Anyone interested in architecture will find this building fascinating to study. The plans include 18 spires, which represent Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, the four Evangelists and the Twelve Apostles. Work is still taking place on some of these spires, while others are open to the public.

The design also calls for three facades on the building. These include the Nativity Facade facing east, the Passion Facade facing west and the Glory Façade facing south. The Nativity Facade was completed in 1930. The Passion Façade and the Glory Façade are still under construction.

In his plans, Gaudi knew that his masterpiece would not be completed during his lifetime. He planned for it to be built in parts, thus assuring that each generation might be able to concentrate on one of the sections. This beautiful basilica is nearly finished, and when it is, Gaudi’s vision will finally be fulfilled.

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January 29, 2016 at 12:15 am

I never knew there were so many beautiful attractions in Barcelona. Montjuic – the evening light and sound at the fountain, Sagrada Familia – architecture, La Rambla Street etc. – just marvelous. A visit to Montsarat is a must. The Crypt designed by Goudi and built with recycled material is a marvel indeed.

December 28, 2015 at 1:47 am

Our holiday in Barcelona dedicated an entire day to the city center. Morning visit the Boqueria market and the Ramblas where we also ate. Then we were all afternoon store Paseo de Gracia and took advantage and had dinner there. We left the shop at the hotel and visited the quarry. I recommend going at night to this monument. It is amazing and well worth going.

September 15, 2015 at 1:52 am

Casa Mila and Casa Batllo, in my opinion are the best. I love the architecture of Gaudi. His style is awesome. Also the place where are located are perfect. You must have to visit if you are there.

September 8, 2015 at 4:25 am

My favorite place is Casa Mila, Casa Batlló and Sagrada Familia. Love it the architecture of Gaudi. But in my opinion, the place where are located Casa Mila and Batlló is better than Sagrada Familia. The avenue of Paseo de Gracia is amazing, full of art, best restaurants, hotels, stores. Perfect to shop and visit attractions 🙂

July 27, 2015 at 2:10 am

Casa Batllo and Pedrera are an amazing buildings. I love Gaudi’s architecture. I think that every body that comes to visit Barcelona have to go there. Also the location of these two buildings is perfect, in the middle of Paseo de Gracia, one of the best streets.

June 23, 2015 at 5:14 am

My favorite place in Barcelona is Paseo de Gracia street. It is amazing street with Gaudi’s buildings and luxury shops!!!!!

May 3, 2015 at 10:53 am

I love Spain and Barcelona is one of my favorite places to visit. This page gives great information thank you.

August 3, 2014 at 11:02 pm

My favourite is of course La Sagrada Familia. The sheer marvel of architecture.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Madrid

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law last visited Madrid in the fall of 2022 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Full of energy and packed with cultural attractions, Madrid is a modern metropolis that offers a taste of the real Spain. Wide avenues are congested with traffic, but beautiful parks break up the urban sprawl.

Madrid is a hub of social life with a happening café culture and bustling nightlife. Constantly buzzing with activity, the city offers so much to see and do that you will be spoiled for choice.

The world-class Prado Museum displays an endless array of masterpieces created during the Golden Age of Spain, and the 18th-century Royal Palace rivals the Château de Versailles in France.

Be sure to experience Madrid in the evening, when the city really comes to life. Madrileños love going out on the town, and the paseo por la noche (evening stroll) is a cherished ritual.

If possible, it's best to avoid visiting during summer when the heat is oppressive. Savvy travelers come to Madrid during the springtime or autumn to take advantage of more mild weather.

Spain's capital city, Madrid boasts an impressive array of historical monuments and art museums, as well as pleasant gardens and public plazas. Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Madrid.

1. Museo Nacional del Prado

2. buen retiro park and the crystal palace, 3. royal palace and gardens, 4. wander through the plaza mayor, 5. puerta del sol: the heart of the city, 6. museo thyssen-bornemisza: fine arts museum, 7. estadio santiago bernabéu: real madrid's stadium, 8. museo nacional centro de arte reina sofía, 9. fuente de cibeles and gran via, 10. mercado de san miguel, 11. temple of debod: an ancient egyptian temple, 12. goya frescoes at ermita de san antonio de la florida, 13. basílica de san francisco el grande, 14. museo sorolla, 15. national archaeological museum, 16. lázaro galdiano museum, 17. puerta de alcalá, 18. national museum of romanticism, where to stay in madrid for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to madrid, map of tourist attractions & things to do in madrid.

A truly world-class museum, the Museo Nacional del Prado has a collection of more than 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures. Among its extensive assortment of artworks are many masterpieces, including celebrated paintings that rival the most famous works of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The Prado Museum displays around 2,300 pieces of the collection in more than 100 rooms on three floors. Trying to see it all in one visit can be daunting, but it's possible to focus on a specific itinerary of masterpieces. The Prado suggests "routes" (self-guided tours) of specific works.

Spanish paintings from the 12th century to the early 19th century form the majority of the collection. The assortment of paintings by Francisco de Goya comprises a remarkable 140 works. Also not-to-be-missed is Las Meninas , a depiction of the Spanish royal family of Felipe IV created by Velázquez in 1656.

Other must-see works in the Spanish Painting collection include The Annunciation by El Greco, Jacob's Dream by José de Ribera, The Third of May by Goya, The Virgin and Child by Luis de Morales, Christ Embracing Saint Bernard by Francisco Ribalta, and The Immaculate Conception by Murillo.

Part of the Prado Museum's exhibition space includes a contemporary building and the renovated 16th-century cloister of the San Jerónimo el Real monastery. These galleries display a noteworthy collection of 17th-century Spanish religious paintings.

Get the most out of your time at the Prado by joining a Skip the Line: Prado Museum Tour in Madrid , avoiding the long lines and going directly to the most interesting galleries. On the 90-minute tour, your knowledgeable guide provides an overview of the museum's must-see masterpieces, while providing historical context to help you understand the artworks.

After touring the art collection, tourists can relax at the Real Jardín Botánico (Royal Botanical Garden) located next to the Prado Museum. This lovely green space features shady pathways, benches, sculptures, greenhouses, a Kitchen Garden planted with vegetables, and a Rose Garden that blooms in May and early June. The Real Jardín Botánico is also home to the Museum of Natural History .

About a 10-minute walk from the Real Jardín Botánico is the popular Restaurante TriCiclo (28 Calle Santa María), which serves lunch and dinner in a contemporary-style dining room with a casual ambience. The restaurant specializes in international cuisine, prepared from seasonal market ingredients with gastronomic flair.

Address: Paseo del Prado, Madrid

The Buen Retiro Park ( Parque del Retiro ) is an oasis of peace in the heart of Madrid. This lush and beautifully manicured park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park encompasses more than 125 hectares and is shaded by over 15,000 trees.

Created for the Count-Duke of Olivares in the 17th century, the historic park has an elegant ambiance with its variety of gardens and tree-lined paths. The Parque del Retiro was owned by the Spanish royal family until the 19th century; since then it has been a public park.

From the main entrance at the Plaza de Independencia, visitors arrive at the pool in the center of the park. From here, paths lead to the enchanting La Rosaleda ( Rose Garden ), the formal French Jardín de Don Cecilio , and the Andalusian-style Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez .

Built in 1887, the Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace) is a splendid cast-iron and glass pavilion that presents exhibitions of contemporary art. The Crystal Palace looks out onto a graceful fountain and reflecting pool. Visitors will find other interesting fountains at Buen Retiro Park including Los Galápagos ( The Turtles ), El Ángel Caído ( The Fallen Angel ), and La Alcachofa ( The Artichoke ).

Locals and tourists alike enjoy boating on the park's tranquil lake. Other favorite things to do include taking the kids to puppet shows at the Teatro de Títeres, going for walks on the scenic tree-lined paths, and basking in the sun or relaxing in the shade at one of the park's outdoor cafés.

For stargazers, the park has an observatory that was built in 1790.

This grandiose palace is the Spanish version of Versailles, a royal court designed to impress. However, unlike Versailles, which is now just a museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) is still the official residence of a monarch (the King of Spain) and continues to be used for official State events.

The palace was commissioned by Philip V in the 18th century. The majestic Neoclassical facade is crafted entirely from granite and white Colmenar stone. The facade's Ionic columns and Doric pilasters are based on drawings that the sculptor Bernini originally intended for the Louvre in Paris. The balustrade features statues of Spanish kings.

The most striking aspect of the interior is the imposing staircase at the entrance hallway, with a fresco of The Triumph of Religion and the Church , that leads up to the main floor. Throughout the palace, masterpieces of art decorate the walls: paintings by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio, and exquisite Flemish and French tapestries.

The King Charles III apartments are among the most beautiful rooms in the Royal Palace. These rooms are adorned with refined decor of the Enlightenment era.

A masterpiece of Rococo style, the Salón del Trono (Throne Room) is adorned with frescoes by Tiepolo including The Greatness of the Spanish Monarchy , one of his finest works. Still used for State ceremonies, the Throne Room is clad in sumptuous red velvet and decorated with valuable tapestries, mirrors, furniture, and chandeliers.

History buffs will want to visit the palace's Royal Armory (La Real Armería), which contains 3,000 exhibits dating back to the Middle Ages. On display are the armor and weapons that have been used by Spain's kings over the centuries.

Visitors should save time to explore the Jardines del Campo del Moro . These delightful historic gardens were created during the reign of Philip II and are landscaped in a formal French style with fountains and avenues. The 20-hectare green space provides a haven of tranquility in the center of Madrid. It's a wonderful place for relaxation and scenic strolls.

Address: Calle Bailén, Madrid

This elegant 17th-century plaza was built during the reign of Philip III and used as a center of commerce and municipal life, as well as the scene of ceremonial events such as the proclamation of a new king and the canonization of saints. The square also served as a venue for bullfights, dramatic performances, and knightly tournaments.

The Plaza Mayor took on its present appearance after a fire in 1790, when the corners were enclosed and the nine entrance arches were constructed, linking it to Calle de Toledo, Calle Mayor, Calle de Postas, and others.

Today, the Plaza Mayor continues to be an important gathering place in Madrid. The expansive cobblestone square is a pedestrian area, surrounded by outdoor cafés and atmospheric restaurants shaded by its arcades. In the evenings, the square is a lively place to visit for both tourists and Madrileños.

A short walk from the Plaza Mayor is the Chocolatería San Ginés (5 Pasadizo San Ginés), famous for its chocolate con churros (hot chocolate with deep-fried pastries), which has been a specialty since 1894. This inviting chocolate boutique and café features marble tables and refined decor. No need to rush, the Chocolatería San Ginés is open 24 hours a day Wednesday through Sunday, and until 11:30 pm Monday and Tuesday.

The Puerta del Sol was named after the sun emblem on the old city gate, which formerly stood here. This spacious town square aligns with the rising sun. Besides being a hub of public transportation (with several bus stops and Metro entrances), the Puerta del Sol is also the "Kilometer Zero" point from which all distances on the Spanish national road network are measured.

The Puerta del Sol has been the scene of many historic events, including the Spanish resistance to Napoleon on May 2nd, 1808, and in 1931, the Second Republic was proclaimed here.

Nowadays the square is a place to hang out and enjoy life. Lined with shops and cafés, the Puerta del Sol is still one of the most happening squares in Madrid.

The area around Puerta del Sol is packed with restaurants and shops. For tourists seeking special gifts to bring back home, La Violeta (6 Plaza de Canalejas) is the place to go. The shop is just steps away from the Puerta del Sol. Founded in 1915, this family-run boutique offers the Madrid specialty of violet candies, as well as chocolate bonbons and other old-fashioned confections.

Note: Puerto del Sol is undergoing major construction in 2023, and barricades and scaffolding dominate the scene.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum presents an overview of European art from the 17th century to the late 20th century. With nearly 1,000 paintings on display, the collection covers medieval religious art, Renaissance-era portraits and biblical themes, the Baroque period, Rococo, Romanticism, Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, modern art, and Pop Art. The museum also has an excellent collection of 19th-century American paintings.

This prestigious collection includes renowned masterpieces such as Christ and the Samaritan Woman by Duccio di Buoninsegna, V enus and Cupid by Peter Paul Rubens, The Annunciation by El Greco, Young Knight in a Landscape by Vittore Carpaccio, Jesus among the Doctors by Albrecht Dürer, The See-Saw by Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Dancer in Green by Edward Degas, Solitude by Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, Route de Versailles by Camille Pissarro, Les Vessenots in Auvers by Vincent van Gogh, and The Harvesters by Pablo Picasso.

Since the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is located near the Prado, art lovers could easily combine a visit to both museums in the same day.

Address: 8 Paseo del Prado, Madrid

Not all of Madrid's tourist attractions revolve around art. One of its most-visited museums draws football (soccer) fans to the stadium known as Estadio Santiago Bernabéu , the home of the Real Madrid soccer club. The club boasts unapologetically that their stadium is the "Greatest Stadium in the World."

You can take a tour of the stadium, as well as the museum, which displays trophies, team artifacts, and temporary exhibits. Tours also give fans a chance to enjoy the view of the field from the top of the stadium.

Significant infrastructure improvements are planned over the next few years for the stadium. They include a retractable roof, digitization of the display screens, along with an underground car park.

Address: 1 Avenida de Concha Espina, 28036 Madrid

Opened by Queen Sofía in 1986, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is Madrid's avant-garde center for contemporary art. The sleek modern building was created by the architect Antonio Fernández Alba and has features that recall the Pompidou Center in Paris, especially the three glass towers that house the elevators on the outside of the building.

Another wonderful surprise to visitors is the charming garden in the inner courtyard filled with imaginative sculptures.

The Museo Reina Sofía contains over 23,000 artworks in its collections. In its thorough representation of Spanish modern and contemporary art, the collection includes remarkable masterpieces such as works by Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Alexander Calder. The artworks are displayed in various rooms spread out in a vast exhibition space of 39,000 square meters.

Visitor amenities include a bookstore, gift shop , and audioguides. The museum also has a trendy café-restaurant, NuBel, which is open for brunch, lunch, afternoon refreshments, tapas, and dinner. Evening meals feature a lively ambience, with DJ music sets every night.

Address: 52 Calle de Santa Isabel, Madrid

Standing in a major traffic intersection, the Fuente de Cibeles (Cybele's Fountain) is one of the most emblematic monuments in Madrid. Lifelike statues depict the Roman Goddess Cybele riding a lion-drawn chariot. The fountain was created in 1782 by Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel with the original purpose of providing water for public use.

Behind the fountain is the Palacio de Cibeles , which houses the CentroCentro cultural center, which hosts art exhibitions and workshops, conferences, and concerts. The Centro Palacio de Cibeles has the Restaurante Palacio de Cibeles on the sixth floor, an elegant dining establishment with spectacular city views. Visitors can also admire panoramic vistas from the Mirador observation deck on the building's eighth floor.

Nearby (via Calle de Alcala) is one of Madrid's most popular shopping streets, the Gran Vía . Tourists will find many restaurants, hotels, and theaters on this bustling street.

Just off the Gran Vía on Calle de Jovellanos, the famous Teatro de la Zarzuela presents ballet performances and classical music concerts, including renowned performances of zarzuela - a unique type of satirical opera with songs accompanied by classical Spanish guitar music.

Address: Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid

Touring a city like Madrid with all its sights can bring on a fierce hunger. Fortunately, the Mercado de San Miguel has everything you need to recharge your natural batteries. Here, you'll find over 20 different vendors selling the freshest meats, cheeses, fruit, and tempting tapas.

Vendor stalls are piled high with taste-bud tempting items. Figuring out what to eat may be the toughest task you face all day. Pick a few things from each place and then sit at one of the tables and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Mercado de San Miguel has been operating in the same location for over 100 years. You'll find it just to the west of Plaza Mayor.

Address: Plaza de San Miguel, Madrid

An ancient Egyptian temple in Madrid? Yes, such a thing does exist, and it can be found in La Montaña Park (close to the Plaza de España). A gift from Egypt, in thanks for Spain's help in saving the Abu Simbel temples during the building of the Aswan Dam, the Temple of Debod was brought to Madrid in 1968.

The temple was built for King Adikhalamani in the 2nd century BC and was dedicated to the Egyptian God and Goddess, Amun and Isis. Well-preserved original decorations are found inside the temple, which is rare for an archaeological site.

Originally the peaceful gardens surrounding the monument had reflective pools and a fountain; however, these features are no longer operating. Admission to the temple is limited, and the line moves very slowly. Sights inside are fairly limited, so if you see a long line, give it a pass.

Address: Parque de la Montaña, Calle de Ferraz, Madrid

Perhaps the least visited of Madrid's major art treasures are the stunning frescoes painted by Francesco Goya that decorate the vaults and ceiling of the chapel of the Hermitage of San Antonio de la Florida.

The little 18th-century chapel, along the banks of the Manzanares River behind the Royal Palace, hosts an annual festival in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua on June 13th, but it's the interior that has become a place of pilgrimage for art lovers.

Among Goya's finest works, the frescoes illustrate the theme of the miracle performed by Saint Anthony, while also depicting scenes of everyday life in Madrid. The frescoes reveal Goya's boldness of artistic style and revolutionary painting techniques. These works were painted at a turning point in Goya's career and are considered a precursor of modern painting.

The chapel is designated as a National Monument and is no longer used for religious services to protect the frescoes.

Address: 5 Glorieta de San Antonio de la Florida, Madrid

The Basílica de San Francisco el Grande was built by Carlos III in 1761 for a Franciscan friary. The church was designed by Francisco Cabezas, who modeled the Neoclassical architectural plan on the Church of Santa Maria in Campitelli in Rome. The construction was completed in 1784 by Francisco Sabatini.

The interior features an inspiring 58-meter-high dome that is larger than the dome of Saint Paul's Cathedral in London. Magnificent paintings adorn the chapels of the basilica, including masterpieces by the Spanish Old Masters.

In the first chapel on the left are Goya's Saint Bernardino , and Velázquez's Saint Bonaventure and The Appearance of the Virgin to Saint Anthony. The church also contains a painting of Saint Bonaventure by Zurbarán.

The church museum in the cloister displays a variety of religious art and artifacts.

Address: Plaza de San Francisco el Grande, Madrid

This charming museum is dedicated to the work of Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, the most famous Spanish Impressionist painter. More than 1,200 paintings and drawings by Sorolla are displayed in the artist's house and studio, which has retained its original decor. The extensive collection includes a broad representation of Sorolla's works.

Visitors should be sure to see the museum's garden patio. Designed by Sorolla, this exquisite tree-shaded outdoor space is adorned with a gurgling fountain and Andalusian-style decorative tile work.

Address: 37 Paseo del General Martínez Campos, Madrid

The National Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueológico Nacional) was founded by Queen Isabella II in 1867 and has a rich collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Exhibits feature archaeological finds, ethnography, decorative arts from antiquity, and ancient coins.

Highlights of the permanent collection include Egyptian mummies, Hispano-Roman and Islamic archaeological finds, Visigothic crowns, and Mudéjar ceramics. One of the most prized possessions of the collection is the bust of the Lady of Elche and the ivory Pot from Zamora.

Address: 13 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

The Lázaro Galdiano Museum displays the exceptional private collection of 19th-century financier Lázaro Galdiano, housed in the mansion of Parque Florido , where he resided. The museum has an extensive collection of around 9,000 artworks exhibited in 30 rooms.

From armor, coins, and medals to jewelry, Baroque crystal, and tapestries, the collection is extremely diverse. Be sure to see the 16th- to 17th-century Spanish paintings by famous Old Masters, including El Greco, Goya, Velázquez, Zurbarán, Ribera, Pereda, and Murillo.

Among the masterpieces are El Aquelarre by Goya, San Francisco en éxtasis by El Greco, Meditaciones de San Juan Bautista by Hieronymus Bosch, Cabeza de Muchacha by Velázquez, El Salvador Adolescente by Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, and La Tienda by Luis Paret y Alcázar.

Address: 122 Calle de Serrano, Madrid

This grand Neoclassical triumphal arch was commissioned by King Charles III to celebrate the arrival of the monarchs to Spain's capital city. The monument was designed by Francesco Sabatini and built between 1769 and 1778.

Nearly 30 meters high, the elegant granite entrance gate makes a grand impression. The facade is adorned with sculptures, capitals, and decorative reliefs.

Just below the monument, at 54 Calle Alcalá, is Madrid's fanciest patisserie shop VAIT Pastelerías , which offers exquisite cakes, cookies, pastries, chocolate candies, and hot chocolate.

Address: Plaza de la Independencia, Madrid

The National Museum of Romanticism (Museo del Romanticismo) presents a unique collection on the theme of Romanticism, the artistic and intellectual movement of the early 19th century. The museum occupies the Palacio del Marqués de Matallana , which dates to 1776 and features wonderful 19th-century decor and furnishings.

The eclectic collection includes jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and porcelain dolls. A highlight of the museum, the assortment of 19th-century paintings stands out for its exceptional quality, thanks to works by masters such as Goya.

The museum also has a splendid Magnolia Garden , landscaped in 18th-century formal French style with avenues, a fountain, and parterres. A café in the garden serves coffee and cakes to museum guests in need of refreshments.

Another cultural attraction nearby is the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), located at 9 Calledel Conde Duque. This museum showcases avant-garde to present-day paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art is Madrid's largest department store, El Corte Inglés , which sells everything from clothes, shoes, and swimsuits to traditional Spanish fans.

Address: 13 Callede San Mateo, Madrid

Anywhere between the Royal Palace and Buen Retiro Park, an area that includes both the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, is ideal for sightseeing. Most major tourist attractions lie in these neighborhoods, with the greatest concentration of art museums along Paseo del Prado, the famed Mile of Art, paralleling Buen Retiro Park. These highly rated hotels in Madrid are all in this central area:

Luxury Hotels :

• Catalonia Las Cortes is found between the Plaza Mayor and the Prado Museum. This four-star hotel occupies a renovated 18th-century palace with original architectural details. The spacious, elegant guest rooms feature modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions and coffee machines.
• The Hotel Atlantico is located on the Gran Via in the heart of Madrid's shopping district and an easy walk from all the major attractions. This four-star hotel has two cafés, one of which is on the rooftop terrace that affords superb views. Guest rooms feature classic décor and are outfitted with modern amenities.
• An emblematic landmark near Madrid's top museums, The Westin Palace Madrid occupies a Historic Monument dating to 1912 that was commissioned by Alfonso XIII. This opulent five-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Spain. Services include three restaurants, a fitness center, spa treatments, and a hair salon.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The NH Madrid Nacional occupies a Historic Monument opposite the Real Jardín Botánico (botanical gardens) on Paseo del Prado, near the Atocha rail station. This modern four-star hotel is located in Madrid's "Art Triangle" just steps away from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
• Artrip Hotel gets rave reviews for its thoughtfully designed contemporary-style guest rooms, cozy atmosphere, and concierge service. The hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from the Reina Sofía Museum and a slightly farther walk to the Prado Museum.

Budget Hotels:

• Just a short walk away from the Prado Museum and the Plaza Mayor, the three-star Ibis Styles Madrid Prado offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in a whimsical style. Some rooms feature balconies; many rooms have city views. This modern hotel provides a 24-hour front reception desk.
• Between the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol, the two-star Hotel Francisco I benefits from a quiet location on a pedestrian street. Tourists will appreciate that the area is brimming with shops and restaurants.
• Near the Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol, the Mayerling Hotel offers comfortable guest rooms decorated in sleek minimalist style. This two-star hotel provides 24-hour front desk and concierge services.
• A stylish and fun addition to the budget scene and in a great location is the SLEEP'N Atocha . The hotel has small rooms, some with large windows that open to the square below. The highlight of the hotel is the sunny enclosed rooftop patio where it's easy to meet and chat with fellow travelers.

See the Highlights of Madrid in a Day:

• Many first-time visitors enjoy seeing the sights on the Hop-on Hop-off Madrid City Tour . This tourist-friendly experience offers 15 or 20 stops on two different routes, which include top attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Puerta del Sol, and the Cibeles Fountain.

Take a Spin around the City :

• For an exhilarating way to see the sights, consider the Madrid Segway Tour . This small-group excursion includes a safety briefing, a helmet, and an English-speaking guide. There is a choice of three different itineraries.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites :

• The full-day Avila and Segovia Day Trip includes a tour of the two UNESCO World Heritage-listed cities near Madrid. More history and culture awaits on the Toledo Half-Day or Full-Day Trip , where you can admire masterpieces of painting by El Greco, stroll the city's medieval streets, and visit amazing historic monuments.

Experience a Serene Spiritual Site:

• Discover another remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site on the El Escorial Monastery and the Valley of the Fallen tour. This five-hour day trip from Madrid includes round-trip transportation, a guided tour of the 15th-century monastery, and a visit to a monument honoring fallen soldiers of the Spanish Civil War.

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• Basic Statistic Share of travel and tourism spending in Spain 2022, by traveler origin
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourism volume in Spain 2023, by travel reason
• Premium Statistic Domestic trips in Spain 2022, by travel reason
• Basic Statistic Share of travel and tourism spending in Spain 2022, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Inbound trips for cultural purposes to Spain 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of enotourists in Spain 2008-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of skiers and snowboarders in Spain 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Pilgrims on the Way of Saint James 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourism premises in Spain 2015-2021
• Premium Statistic Share of tourism companies in Spain 2021, by size
• Premium Statistic Main hotel groups in Spain FY2021, by sales revenue
• Premium Statistic Main passenger airlines in Spain 2022
• Premium Statistic Main travel agencies in Spain FY2021, by sales revenue
• Premium Statistic Main restaurants and food stall companies in Spain FY2021, by sales revenue
• Premium Statistic Ecotourism businesses' average revenue in Spain 2022, by type

Main destinations

• Premium Statistic Main coastal destinations in Spain 2022, by number of hotel guests
• Premium Statistic Most visited cities in Spain 2022
• Premium Statistic Attendance to Spanish National Heritage sites 2022
• Premium Statistic Attendance to Spanish national parks 2022
• Premium Statistic Cruise ship calls at Spanish ports 2022, by authority
• Premium Statistic Enotourism destination areas in Spain 2022, by region

Online travel market

• Premium Statistic Quarterly online revenue of accommodation businesses in Spain 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Quarterly online revenue of travel agencies & tours operators in Spain 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Airbnb revenue in Spain 2015-2020
• Premium Statistic Willingness to purchase tourism services online in Spain 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Average spend on tourism services booked online in Spain 2018-2022
• Premium Statistic Hotel / private accommodation online bookings by brand in Spain 2024

Further related statistics

• Basic Statistic Visitor satisfaction rate regarding the Eiffel Tower 2015
• Premium Statistic Nationality of leading visitors to the Eiffel Tower in Paris 2015
• Premium Statistic Most visited tourist attractions on the French coast 2017
• Premium Statistic Most visited amusement and water parks in Denmark 2022
• Premium Statistic Leading attractions in the Capital Region of Denmark 2019, by number of visitors
• Premium Statistic Number of facility visitors in Kuwait 2021, by tourist attraction
• Basic Statistic Tourism attraction of the cultural sites in Ile-de-France region 2016
• Premium Statistic Visitor numbers to leading tourist attractions in Prague 2016
• Premium Statistic Number of visits to Westminster Abbey in the UK 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of cultural properties in Turkey 2019, by type
• Premium Statistic Value of AI investment deals in home architecture industry in China 2012-2019
• Premium Statistic Italy: engineering and architectural services output 2004-2016
• Premium Statistic Operating revenue of architectural and engineering activities Saudi Arabia 2010-2017

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• Visitor satisfaction rate regarding the Eiffel Tower 2015
• Nationality of leading visitors to the Eiffel Tower in Paris 2015
• Most visited tourist attractions on the French coast 2017
• Most visited amusement and water parks in Denmark 2022
• Leading attractions in the Capital Region of Denmark 2019, by number of visitors
• Number of facility visitors in Kuwait 2021, by tourist attraction
• Tourism attraction of the cultural sites in Ile-de-France region 2016
• Visitor numbers to leading tourist attractions in Prague 2016
• Number of visits to Westminster Abbey in the UK 2010-2023
• Number of cultural properties in Turkey 2019, by type
• Value of AI investment deals in home architecture industry in China 2012-2019
• Italy: engineering and architectural services output 2004-2016
• Operating revenue of architectural and engineering activities Saudi Arabia 2010-2017