So, you wish to go to Spain however are uncertain of the place to remain and make a base, when to go to, or which sights to prioritize. By no means worry, you’ve gotten come to the fitting place. This information on the very best issues to do in Spain is a collaboration from our many journeys to Spain and our crew members that will help you plan your Spain itinerary!
Historic cities, the nation’s finest museums, iconic landmarks, and thrilling outside adventures are simply among the issues to do in Spain that you simply can’t miss. From Bilbao to Cadiz, I’ve left no stone unturned when creating this useful planner.
Whether or not you wish to discover the very best seashores in Spain or marvel on the nation’s UNESCO World Heritage Websites, I’ve bought a great deal of concepts. So, let’s dive into all the very best issues to do in Spain, from the wineries within the north to the Moorish structure within the south.
Better of Spain Fast Information
Should See: Dali Museum, The Alhambra, Royal Palace of Madrid, El Retiro Park, Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, Park Guell, Casa Batllo The place To Keep: Posada del Dragón (Madrid), Solely You Lodge (Malaga), Mercer Lodge (Barcelona) Enjoyable To Do: Vineyard excursions in La Rioja, Ibiza, Mallorca, Flamenco exhibits, La Tomatina pageant Day Journeys: Cordoba, Toledo, Seville, Cadiz, Segovia Should-Strive Meals: Paella, Tapas, Churros, Jamon Iberico
Finest Issues To Do In Spain
Spain is such a various nation that anybody can take pleasure in it. The nation’s high sights embrace historical landmarks, luxurious resorts, long-distance mountain climbing trails, and among the world’s finest artwork museums. Simply choose one which pursuits you most, and also you’ll be capable to take pleasure in it in no less than 5 totally different Spanish cities!
1. Vineyard Excursions in La Rioja
La Rioja is a province in northern Spain recognized for wine manufacturing. The most effective Spanish wines originate from this area and all the very best wineries provide excursions with tastings.
Bodegas Lecea is likely one of the finest for excursions as a result of the wine barrels are saved in underground caves. Bodegas La Rioja Alta, S.A. can also be well-liked for tastings and excursions. This vineyard manufactures among the highest-quality wines within the nation, and you’ll style most of them throughout a tour.
Sensible Info: It’s finest to e book a tour/tasting earlier than your arrival, particularly in peak season.
2. Hike the Camino de Santiago
Camino de Santiago (Approach of Saint James) is likely one of the most well-known pilgrimages on the earth. The community of pilgrim paths stretches by Northern Spain, France, and Portugal, and all of the paths result in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
It’s believed that the apostle’s stays are buried in Galicia’s cathedral. The northern metropolis has been the vacation spot for pilgrims because the tenth century, and mountain climbing even a small part of this path is a really rewarding expertise. On the very least, go to the well-known church on a day journey to expertise a small a part of this Spanish custom.
Sensible Info: The oldest route of Camino de Santiago is from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela. It takes roughly two weeks to hike the 300 kilometers by the north of Spain.
3. Climb the Tower of Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Família is an iconic landmark of Barcelona, recognized for perpetually being beneath building. It’s estimated that the works on the church will lastly finish in 2026, greater than 140 years after the development started.
The (completed) towers of Sagrada Familia are open to the general public and provide sweeping views of Barcelona’s rooftops. And since the cathedral is likely one of the tallest buildings within the Spanish metropolis, it’s among the best panoramic views to be skilled in Barcelona.
Sensible Info: Sagrada Familia is open from 9 AM to six PM. The tickets that embrace a go to to one of many towers are 36€.
Learn extra about Barcelona
4. Take Half in La Tomatina
There are two kinds of folks on the earth – those that would gladly take part in La Tomatina and people who would disguise of their resort room till all the occasion was over. Buñol’s pageant has change into iconic over time, attracting many vacationers and locals to town streets in late August.
La Tomatina is an occasion throughout which contributors throw tomatoes at one another and have interaction in tomato fights. Buñol’s major sq. will get coated with squashed tomatoes and appears like a horror movie scene till the hearth vehicles hose it down. Learn extra: The Finest and Largest Festivals Round The World.
Sensible Info: La Tomatina takes place on the final Wednesday of August yearly.
5. Go to the Dali Museum in Figueres
Salvador Dali is likely one of the most well-known artists Spain has ever produced. The legendary artist was born in Figueres, a small city in Catalonia. It’s finest to go to Figueres on day journeys from Barcelona because the city is just an hour and a half away by public transport.
The Dali Museum is about inside a Nineteenth-century theater, which was designed by the artist. Dali himself arrange this museum, and it homes the most important assortment of his artworks. For any artwork lover in Spain, this museum is an absolute should and can probably be the spotlight of all the journey.
Sensible Info: Dali-Theatre Museum is open from 10:30 AM to five PM day-after-day besides Monday. Tickets are 17€.
6. See Gaudi’s Works in Barcelona
Barcelona will get nearly as many guests because the capital, and the general public who come to go to are there for Antoni Gaudi’s works. The architect is taken into account a pioneer of Catalan Modernism, and a few of his most well-known works adorn the streets of Barcelona. E-book this extremely rated tour of Sagrada, Casas, and Park Guell.
The most effective one is Sagrada Familia, the imposing cathedral that’s nonetheless beneath building. Park Güell, Casa Batllo, Casa Vicens, and Casa Milla are additionally price visiting for his or her distinctive structure. See our information to the highest works of Gaudi you can not miss right here.
Sensible Info: It’s finest to buy particular person tickets for every of the sights. Bundles exist however are costlier than single tickets.
7. Stroll Across the Moorish Palace of Alhambra
The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and one of the crucial necessary landmarks in Spain. The Moorish palace stays one of many world’s most distinguished examples of Islamic structure, so it’s no marvel it’s one of the crucial visited landmarks in southern Spain. Learn extra at 27 Finest Issues to Do at The Grand Canyon
The palace’s building started within the thirteenth century, as ordered by the founding father of the Nasrid dynasty. The palace served because the royal residence for the dynasty, who had been the final Muslim rulers of Spain. E-book this tour upfront
Sensible Info: The Alhambra is open for excursions from 8:30 AM to eight PM. The tickets are roughly 20€.
8. Uncover Influences of Totally different Cultures at Toledo
Toledo is named the Metropolis of Three Cultures due to its Arab, Jewish, and Christian monuments from the Center Ages. It was additionally El Greco’s house for some time, and it honored the well-known artist with a museum devoted to his works.
The city has UNESCO World Heritage standing, and it’s a wonderful vacation spot in Spain for vacationers within the structure and historical past of Spain, because of mesmerizing medieval buildings and historic landmarks.
Toledo’s high landmarks are Puerta de Bisagra, Alcázar de Toledo, Sinagoga del Tránsito, San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo, and extra.
Sensible Info: Toledo is roughly an hour outdoors Madrid by bus and practice.
9. Seashores of Costa del Sol
Spain’s Costa del Sol is the preferred vacation spot for holidays within the nation. With numerous cities on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, all of which supply huge sandy seashores and wonderful resorts, limiting your self to only one vacation spot is out of the query. Particularly for those who’re in Spain for a restricted time.
Our advice for Costa del Sol excursions is to hire a automotive and drive from Nerja to Estepona. Malaga and Marbella are the highest cities alongside the best way, providing a superb mixture of vacationer sights and fabulous resorts. A detour to Granada to see the Alhambra is definitely accomplished throughout highway journeys by Costa del Sol.
Sensible Info: Malaga is accessible by practice from Madrid in three hours.
10. Strive Paella (And Different Spanish Meals)
Meals is a vital a part of Spanish tradition and Siesta is proof sufficient. The place else on the earth is it anticipated of individuals to cease working and take naps after lunch? Paella, tapas, jamon iberico, churros, and tortillas are just some of the various dishes you need to strive whereas touring by Spain.
Valencia is likely one of the finest cities in Spain for meals excursions. Valencian paella is known; the area’s local weather is ideal for rising rice, so paella has at all times been a staple meal in Valencian properties.
Sensible Info: Gastro excursions are extensively obtainable in all city facilities in Spain.
11. Uncover the Nature of the Canary Islands
Located simply off the western coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago within the Atlantic Ocean. Tenerife is the most important of the seven islands and the preferred vacation spot amongst vacationers within the Canaries. Gran Canaria Island is a detailed second. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife are the 2 capitals.
Tenerife is understood for Teide Nationwide Park, the house of Mount Teide. The volcano is the very best mountain in Spain, accessible by mountain climbing trails and cable automotive. Simply take into account that it’s an energetic volcano. I like to recommend reserving a guided tour of the world, simply to be on the protected facet.
Sensible Info: Canary Islands are accessible by flights from Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville.
12. Mingle With The College students in Salamanca
Salamanca is house to the oldest college in Spain. That is additionally one of many world’s oldest universities which might be nonetheless in steady operation. With greater than 30,000 college students enrolled within the College of Salamanca, it’s not shocking that the place is a correct pupil city.
A strolling tour of the city means that you can uncover Salamanca’s golden sandstone buildings with intricate particulars. Casa de las Conchas, components of that are coated with seashells, is likely one of the most well-known. Monterrey’s palace, Salamanca Cathedral, and the Roman bridge of Salamanca are a number of different noteworthy landmarks on this picturesque Spanish metropolis.
Sensible Info: Salamanca is near Madrid, roughly an hour and 40 minutes by practice.
13. Tapas and Flamenco in Seville
As the most important metropolis of Andalusia, Seville is a bustling city middle in southern Spain. Come right here to see marvelous historic landmarks, but additionally to lose your self within the rhythm of Flamenco and overindulge in the very best tapas.
The historic middle of Seville is house to a UNESCO World Heritage Web site comprising three buildings – Seville Cathedral, Royal Alcázar of Seville, and the Normal Archive of the Indies. However my favourite attraction in Seville was Museo del Baile Flamenco. I cherished studying in regards to the historical past of the Spanish people dance and totally loved the stay efficiency. Learn our full information – The Finest Issues to Do in Seville, Spain
Sensible Info: Seville is definitely accessible by practice from Madrid (3 hours) and Malaga (2 hours).
14. Marvel at Castles in Cádiz
Cádiz is the oldest metropolis in Europe that has been repeatedly inhabited since its founding in 1100 BC. It was based by the Phoenicians as a small buying and selling publish and would later grow to be a very powerful harbor in mainland Spain.
The historical past of this city is clear in its structure. With historical castles, metropolis partitions, and numerous historic landmarks within the outdated city, Cadiz is likely one of the finest locations for an adventure-filled journey in southern Spain.
A few of the metropolis’s finest sights are the Catedral de la Santa Cruz de Cádiz, Torre Tavira, Castillo de San Sebastian, Parque Genovés, and Castillo de Santa Catalina.
Sensible Info: Cádiz is within the south of Spain, most simply accessible from Seville and Malaga. It’s 4 and a half hours by practice from Madrid.
15. Keep in Madrid
Spain’s capital is the preferred vacationer vacation spot within the nation and for all the very best causes. Madrid is a spectacular metropolis providing all kinds of issues to do, from spectacular historic landmarks to wonderful buying alternatives.
Keep in Madrid for no less than three days to see as many sights as attainable. Plaza de España, Plaza Mayor, and the Madrid Royal Palace are among the capital’s high sights, however solely within the metropolis’s historic middle. E-book a hop on hop off bus tour for a wonderful introduction to the highlights of Madrid
Go to the Literary Quarter to hang around in quaint bookshops and stroll within the steps of Spain’s most well-known writers. Or go to El Retiro Park for the day, to wander across the expansive inexperienced area in the course of this city jungle. And head to La Latina within the night, to seek out all the very best theaters and tapas bars in Madrid. Learn our information: 18 Finest Day Journeys From Madrid
Sensible Info: Madrid is accessible by worldwide flights. It’s 20 minutes by practice from the Madrid Airport to the primary practice station.
16. Admire the Avant-Garde in Bilbao
Bilbao is the most important metropolis on Spain’s northern coast and the capital of the Basque Nation. The Guggenheim Museum is probably the most well-known vacationer attraction in Bilbao and among the best in all the city.
The fantastic thing about Bilbao lies in its distinction. As soon as a serious industrial middle and harbor, Bilbao is now present process revitalization and it’s all because of the Guggenheim Museum. Frank Gehry’s masterpiece sparked additional investments within the metropolis’s infrastructure, and right now, it’s an necessary vacationer middle in Basque nation.
Come to Bilbao to see the distinction between its industrial previous and avant-garde current. See Plaza Nueva, the neoclassical metropolis sq., and the Santiago Cathedral well-known for Gothic revival structure. Recreation of Thrones was Filmed close to Bilbao as properly.
Sensible Info: Bilbao is most simply accessible by flights from Barcelona and Madrid. Practice and bus journey is feasible, nevertheless it takes 5-6 hours and it’s costlier than flying.
17. Journey Again in Time in Córdoba
Córdoba was one of the crucial necessary cities in Spain beneath Roman rule, and within the Center Ages, it grew to become a serious Islamic middle. The structure displays town’s historical past, and most of Córdoba’s iconic sights are thought to be excellent examples of Moorish structure.
The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is town’s landmark constructing. The UNESCO World Heritage Web site was initially based as a Mosque again within the eighth century however transformed to a cathedral through the Reconquista interval. Additionally go to Palacio de la Merced for Baroque structure, Palacio de Viana for a touch of Renaissance components, and Templo Romano to see some magnificent Roman ruins.
Sensible Info: Cordoba is one hour from Malaga by practice and two hours from Madrid.
18. Tour The Artwork Museums
Spain has produced among the most influential artists in historical past and the nation’s museums are stocked with their artwork. It’s by no means a nasty concept to enter a Spanish artwork museum, particularly for those who take pleasure in 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 among the most well-known within the nation, however definitely not the one ones price your time. The museums are stocked with work by Dali, Goya, Picasso, Velázquez, El Greco, and different iconic artists.
Insider Tip: Decide up the Paseo del Arte Cross to save cash on the very best museums in Madrid and to skip the strains.
Sensible Info: The most effective artwork museums in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Malaga.
19. Occasion in Ibiza
Ibiza has a long-standing popularity as a celebration city. A few of the finest nightclubs in Europe have summer time outposts on the island, the place legendary events happen. And if that seems like your type of trip, Ibiza is a vacation spot to not be missed.Along with among the finest nightlife in Spain, Ibiza additionally has wonderful historic landmarks, beautiful nature, and plenty of museums. And let’s not overlook in regards to the sandy seashores and five-star resorts, that are the primary purpose for its reputation.
Sensible Info: Ibiza is accessible by flights and ferries from the mainland. Ferries from Valencia are the quickest, taking 5-8 hours to achieve the Balearic Island.
20. Hop to Mallorca
Mallorca Island is one other well-liked trip vacation spot in Spain. It’s accessible by ferries and flights, most of which take you to Palma, the island’s capital. With sprawling sandy seashores, wonderful resort resorts, and Gothic structure, town is a should throughout any island hopping journey in Spain.
Mallorca Cathedral is town’s most well-known landmark, with its tall Gothic towers and a wrought-iron cover designed by none apart from Gaudí. Royal Palace of La Almudaina, Llotja de Palma, Bellver Fort, and Arab Baths are among the different historic sights in Palma.
Sensible Info: Palma is accessible by ferries from Barcelona, Valencia, and Ibiza. Ferries from mainland Spain take 7-9 hours to achieve Mallorca.
21. Enjoy Valencia’s Allure
When you can go to only some cities throughout your time in Spain, prioritize Valencia. The fascinating metropolis is an excellent mix of the outdated and new, epitomizing every little thing Spain is understood for. It’s bought the very best meals (hi there Valencian paella), medieval landmarks, fashionable structure, and fabulous seashores.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is one in all Valencia’s most well-known sights. The trendy science middle is taken into account one of many 12 Treasures of Spain, and its displays are totally fascinating. And on the opposite finish of the spectrum is Baños del Almirante, the one remaining Moorish constructing within the metropolis.
Sensible Info: Valencia is accessible by practice from Madrid (2 hours) and Barcelona (3 hours).
22. Climb a Mountain at Picos de Europa Nationwide Park
Picos de Europa Nationwide Park is the oldest nationwide park in Spain. It’s located within the north, spanning 11 villages and three areas. With forests, lakes, caves, and tall mountains, the park is a spot of surreal surroundings.
The nationwide park is finest recognized for its numerous mountain climbing trails. Ranging in issue from very simple to extraordinarily difficult, anybody can discover a appropriate mountain climbing path in Picos de Europa. The park is particularly well-liked amongst mountaineers in Spain, who revel on the probability to beat one other summit.
Sensible Info: Entrance to Picos de Europa Nationwide Park is freed from cost.
Soccer is the nationwide sport of Spain, and the primary spectator sport within the nation. The Actual Madrid and FC Barcelona derby is a legendary occasion that has followers of the game glued to their TVs all through the world.
Santiago Bernabeu (Madrid) and Camp Nou (Barcelona) stadiums are as iconic because the Alhambra, and stadium excursions are a should for followers of the game. Witnessing a stay match together with 1000’s of passionate locals is an unbelievable expertise, one that would convert anybody right into a soccer fan. Even me.
Sensible Info: Tickets for La Liga matches have a median value of 125€.
24. See The Hanging Homes in Cuenca
The Hanging Homes are three homes constructed into the rock face in Cuenca. They’re also referred to as Casas Colgadas de Cuenca and are one of the crucial attention-grabbing landmarks in central Spain.
The balconies of the homes jut out over the gorge. It’s a dramatic picture, however I have to admit I used to be just a bit bit underwhelmed. I blame the attraction’s identify for setting excessive expectations.
Total, I used to be glad to go to Cuenca as a result of the city is vibrant, charming, and steeped in historical past. And it’s a little bit of a hidden gem, with out the hordes of vacationers you usually see within the greater cities.
Sensible Info: Cuenca is an hour from Madrid by practice. It’s free to go to the Hanging Homes.
25. Paleolithic Work within the Cave of Altamira
A highway journey in northern Spain will not be full with out a go to to Altamira Cave. The complicated is known around the globe for prehistoric work on the partitions, that are greater than 36,000 years outdated.
Effectively, you possibly can’t go contained in the cave any longer however you possibly can see cave findings and replicas of the work at an area museum. I discovered it mind-bending to stare at work created by Neanderthals, and it altered my perspective on the historical past of our species.
Sensible Info: Altamira Cave is in Santillana del Mar. Entrance to the museum web site is 3€.
26. Scorching Air Balloon Rides in Segovia
Segovia is a small city near Madrid recognized for decent air balloon rides and a Roman aqueduct. It’s really one of many best-preserved Roman aqueducts on the earth, and for those who’re into Roman ruins, this city is a should in Spain.
The city boasts attention-grabbing historic structure with Romanesque church buildings and a Gothic cathedral. Alcázar de Segovia, a medieval fortress, affords panoramic views of rolling hills and central Spain’s pure magnificence.
Sensible Info: Segovia is 50-60 minutes from Madrid by practice.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions Me
What Is The Quantity One Attraction in Spain?
La Sagrada Familia is the primary attraction in Spain. Barcelona’s cathedral is world-famous, regardless of being unfinished greater than a century after building started.
How Many Days Ought to I Keep in Spain?
You need to keep in Spain for 10-15 days to totally discover the nation. For shorter journeys, it’s finest to remain in a single metropolis and discover the area on day journeys.
The way to Spend 7 Days in Spain?
Spend 7 days in Spain by visiting Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Toledo, and Valencia. You possibly can keep in Madrid all the time and discover the capital in three days, and the remainder of the cities on day journeys.
What Is The Finest A part of Spain To Go to For The First Time?
Barcelona is the very best vacation spot for first-timers in Spain. The Catalan metropolis affords beautiful structure and plenty of iconic Spanish landmarks, together with the legendary Sagrada Familia.
The place To Keep in Spain
Keep in Madrid for no less than 3-4 days as a result of the capital affords a lot to find. Barcelona can also be an excellent metropolis to be in for some time, with wonderful meals and energetic streets. For journey within the south of Spain, keep in Malaga for the very best expertise. Listed here are among the finest resorts in Spain for all budgets:
Suggestions and Info for Visiting Spain
Finest Time To Go to
Until you’re touring to Spain for a particular pageant or occasion, any time of yr is an effective time to go to. I like to recommend spring or autumn for probably the most nice expertise.
Summer time is the height season for journey in Spain, particularly within the well-liked vacationer locations, and that usually means giant crowds and excessive resort costs. Go to within the low season to benefit from the good climate however with fewer crowds and extra inexpensive costs.
Getting There
The biggest airports in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca. All three are among the many high 25 busiest airports in Europe and all provide public transport entry to town middle by bus or practice.
Attempt to fly to Madrid. It’s bought the very best connections to different main city facilities and plenty of smaller cities you possibly can simply go to on day journeys from Madrid.
Getting Round
All the main cities in Spain are linked by trains and buses. When you’re in Madrid you will get just about wherever within the nation by public transport with only one or two adjustments. However the trains aren’t very quick and are sometimes costlier than native flights.
Automotive rental is an effective possibility for highway journeys in a particular area. Discover northern Spain in a automotive or drive down Costa del Sol for the final word freedom. However for fast journeys between main Spanish cities, practice journey is the quickest possibility.
How A lot Time Do You Want
You want no less than 10 days for a correct tour in Spain, and even that’s for a condensed itinerary. Ideally, you’d spend 15-20 days touring across the nation, staying for a number of days in each main metropolis.
Madrid and Barcelona require no less than three days every, whereas most different locations may be toured in a single or two days.
So, there you’ve gotten it, your full information to the very best issues to do in Spain. In case you are planning a visit to Spain, you possibly can select one in all these stunning cities to make a base and e book day journeys to get out to discover extra of the nation. Have you ever been to Spain? What’s your favourite place to go to?