17 Best Places To Visit In Spain

Spain is the perfect destination for travellers looking for an adventure in Europe, with both popular attractions and undiscovered gems. It has a long and fascinating history that has left its mark on the country’s art, architecture, and culture. From the Romans to the Moors to the Catholic monarchs, Spain has been shaped by a wide variety of influences, and this is evident through the country’s many museums, churches, and monuments.

The country’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters also make it a great holiday destination. Spain is also renowned for its sandy beaches, which are some of the most beautiful in Europe. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Spain is also renowned for its cuisine. Spanish food is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and olive oil, and its bold flavours. Spain is also known for its diverse regions, each with its own unique culture, history and festivals. From vibrant cities and charming villages – Here are the best places to visit in Spain.

 

1Seville

Seville Spain

Seville is a must-visit destination and one of the leading places to visit in Spain, offering visitors a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The city’s rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture which includes the grandeur of the Alcázar Palace, Roman ruins, Moorish palaces, and Gothic churches from the Castilian period.

Meanwhile, Plaza de España offers a glimpse of the city’s more modern side while the winding streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Seville has a vibrant food and drink scene, with delicious local specialities such as gazpacho, fried fish, and Iberian ham.

Seville’s lively nightlife add to its appeal, making it a top choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of southern Spain. In fact, flamenco dancing and music originated in Seville, the Tirana neighbourhood is renowned for its quaint cafés and places to see flamenco performances.

One of the most famous events in Seville is the annual Feria de Abril, a week-long celebration that takes place two weeks after Easter. During this festival, the city comes alive with colorful tents, flamenco dancing, and traditional Spanish music. It’s a great time to experience the local culture and soak up the festive atmosphere.

 

2San Sebastián

San Sebastián Spain

San Sebastian is renowned for its stunning beaches, beautiful architecture and its gastronomy. The Basque Country is known for its inventive and delicious cuisine, and San Sebastián is one of the best places to experience it. The city is home to several Michelin star restaurants, including the famous Arzak, which has held three stars since 1989. Other Michelin-starred options include Akelarre and Mugaritz, offering unique dining experiences and exquisite Basque cuisine. San Sebastian has more Michelin stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world.

In addition to eating, one of the most notable features of San Sebastián is its breathtaking beaches. The most famous is La Concha, a crescent-shaped beach that is widely considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Another popular beach is Zurriola, which is known for its strong waves and is a favourite spot for surfers.

The Old Town is also a highlight where you can wander through narrow streets lined with San Sebastian’s famous pintxo bars, serving up small bites of delicious local cuisine. Sampling the San Sebastian cheesecake in San Sebastian is a must-do experience for any food lover visiting the city. La Viña is perhaps the most famous place to try the San Sebastian cheesecake. This bustling bar and restaurant, located in the Old Town, is where many people believe the cheesecake was invented.

 

3Malaga

things to do in malaga spain

Located in the southern region of Andalusia, Malaga is one of the best places to visit in Spain. With a rich history and vibrant culture, the city is home to a breathtaking historic centre, home to the stunning Malaga Cathedral and the ancient Alcazaba fortress. Other top attractions include the Picasso Museum, showcasing the work of the famous artist who was born in Malaga as well as the beautiful botanical gardens of La Concepción.

However, Malaga is most famous for its beautiful beaches and its cuisine, which features a variety of seafood dishes, as well as traditional Spanish tapas. It is also a great starting point to explore its surrounding towns, such as Nerja, Marbella and more. Malaga is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to stunning beaches and delicious cuisine. With so much to see and do, Malaga is a must-visit destination and one of the best places to holiday in Spain.

Related: Best Things To Do In Malaga

 

4Nerja 

places to visit in spain nerja

Nerja makes for an excellent day trip from Malaga, as it’s only about an hour’s drive away along the scenic coastal road. If time permits it is also well worth spending a few days in Nerja, as it is one of the best places to go in Spain. The Balcón de Europa, a picturesque vantage point overlooking the Mediterranean Sea that was formerly a Moorish fortress, is one of Nerja’s popular attractions. Take in expansive views of the ocean and the Sierra Almijara mountains from this gorgeous location.

For beach lovers, Nerja offers a range of stunning beaches, including the famous Burriana Beach, which boasts a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water. Other popular beaches include Playa Carabeillo, Playa el Salon, and Playa Calahonda, all of which offer a mix of sun, sand, and sea. Nerja is also home to a series of underground caves that are home to ancient cave paintings and a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites.

From explore the quaint streets and charming squares to taking a stroll along the Paseo de los Carabineros, a seaside promenade that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Nerja is not only a great Spanish destination for a day trip from Malaga but also as a sole destination itself.

 

5Cordoba

Cordoba flower festival

 A charming yet underrated city, Cordoba is a hidden gem that is one of the best places to go in Spain. Boasting a rich cultural heritage, the historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to one of the world’s most iconic examples of Islamic architecture, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba – Mezquita. It’s known for its distinctive red-and-white arches and columns, and its impressive horseshoe-shaped prayer hall.

The city is also home to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, a beautiful palace built in the 14th century, and the picturesque Roman Bridge, which offers stunning views of the city. Also explore the charming winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, the narrow, winding streets are lined with whitewashed houses and flower-filled courtyards, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Indulge in delicious Andalusian dishes and tapas, sample local specialities such as salmorejo (a chilled tomato soup), flamenquín (a breaded and fried pork roll), and rabo de toro (oxtail stew).

Visit Cordoba during the Flower Festival which is typically held during the month of May. The courtyards are decorated with a variety of colorful flowers, including geraniums, jasmine, and roses, and visitors can stroll through the courtyards, admiring the beautiful displays. With its rich history and cultural significance, Cordoba is a great introduction into authentic Spain.

 

6Ronda

Ronda Spain

Ronda is a beautiful town located in the province of Malaga, in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. Located just over an hour from the city of Malaga, Ronda is a perfect destination for a day trip. The town is situated in a mountainous area, perched on the edge of a dramatic gorge known as El Tajo, which cuts through the landscape and divides the town in two.

Renowned for its beautiful views and natural beauty as well as its rich cultural and historical past, Rona is one of the best places to visit in Spain. The town is home to a number of important landmarks, including the Puente Nuevo a magnificent bridge that crosses the El Tajo valley and provides incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Other notable attractions in Ronda include the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, as well as a number of historic churches and museums. In addition, Ronda is an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of sports including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking available in the nearby countryside.

 

7Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas Spain

In the Andalusia region of southern Spain, between the cities of Cádiz and Málaga is the lovely village of Setenil de las Bodegas. It is renowned for its unique architecture, with many of its buildings and houses built into the rocky cliffs that surround the town. One of the most unique features of the town is the way its buildings are integrated into the surrounding rocks and cliffs. It is frequently known as the Spanish town under a rock.

This creates a striking and dramatic visual effect, with many buildings appearing to be carved directly into the rock. The most famous example of this is the town’s main street, Calle Cuevas del Sol, which is lined with houses built into the cliff face, providing a stunning and unforgettable sight for visitors.

Setenil de las Bodegas is also known for its delicious cuisine, the region is famed for its its wine and chorizo. The town also boasts a bustling marketplace. And with the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park close by and the Rio Trejo running through the town’s centre, the  neighbouring area offers opportunities for spectacular walks, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.

 

8Marbella

Marbella Spain

One of the best places to holiday in Spain, Marbella is renowned as one of Europe’s top destinations for sun, sea, sand and a vibrant nightlife. Marbella is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol, popular with both families and party-seekers. Enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores, exploring the old town with its charming narrow streets and historic buildings, or indulging in the city’s vibrant culinary scene. To add more spice to your Marbella experience, the marina offers a wide range of water sports and boat trips whilst the beachfront is lined with luxurious beach clubs. With its glamorous atmosphere, stunning scenery and endless activities, Marbella is unrivalled for anyone looking to experience the best of the Spanish coast.

In addition to its beaches and nightlife, Marbella also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic landmarks and museums to explore. The old town of Marbella, known as the Casco Antiguo, features narrow streets lined with traditional white-washed buildings, as well as a number of historic churches and plazas. Other notable places to visit in Marbella include the famous Puerto Banus marina, which is home to a variety of luxury yachts and high-end boutiques, as well as a number of world-class golf courses and other outdoor activities.

 

9Madrid

best places to visit in europe madrid

The Spanish capital is an eclectic hub of art, culture, history, and world-class museums. One of the most popular attractions in Madrid is the Prado Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art from some of the greatest artists in history, including Velazquez, Goya, and El Greco. Other notable museums in the city include the Reina Sofia Museum, home to works by Picasso and Dali. The Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest palace in Europe, is also a must-visit attraction.

The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and mouth watering culinary scene with a wide range of bars, restaurants and street food markets to choose from. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful parks like Retiro Park, attend a football match at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium or stroll through the colourful neighbourhoods of Malasaña and Chueca. With its endless activities and attractions, Madrid is one of Europe’s most fascinating capitals.

 

10Bilbao

Bilbao spain

Known for its rich history, incredible architecture and delicious cuisine, Bilbao is one of Spain’s most authentic and traditional cities. With a labyrinth of winding narrow streets, breathtaking colourful buildings and remarkable tourist spots, Bilbao is a city that will leave you in awe. The city’s most iconic attraction is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao features a stunning collection of contemporary art and is a must-visit for art lovers whilst the beautiful Bilbao Cathedral should be visited by all. With its unique blend of modern and traditional, Bilbao is one of the best cities to visit in Spain. In addition to its cultural attractions, Bilbao is also a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of restaurants and pintxo bars serving traditional Basque cuisine.

 

11Mijas

Located on the Costa del Sol, in the province of Malaga, Mijas is a paradise for adventure seekers and culture vultures. Mijas is a municipality that has two primary parts. There is the old village, with narrow streets of white-washed buildings, traditional Andalusian architecture, and charming squares, that offers a classic Andalusian feel. Explore the town on foot or by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through its winding streets. The town is also home to the Mijas Bullring, one of the oldest in Spain, which hosts bullfights and other events.

Then there is Mijas Costa, which is located on the coast between Fuengirola and Marbella. The beautiful beaches of the Costa del Sol are just a short drive away and outdoor lovers can enjoy horse riding, golfing or hiking in the surrounding hills. With acres of golf courses, more sandy beaches, and luxury residences, this region offers all you would expect from a contemporary Mediterranean retreat.

Other star attractions include the Mijas Water Park and the Mijas Wine Museum which showcases the region’s rich winemaking history. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery, Mijas is a hidden gem that showcases the best of Spain.

 

12Cadiz

Cadiz is a coastal city in the Andalusian region of Spain known for its stunning beaches and delicious seafood. The city’s beaches are some of the best in Spain with glistening turquoise waters and golden sands that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

One of the most notable attractions in Cadiz is its historic Old Town, which features narrow streets, beautiful plazas, and a variety of historic landmarks, including the Cadiz Cathedral, the Torre Tavira, and the Castle of San Sebastian. With its phenomenal coastal location, indulge in the local cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood dishes like fried fish and squid. Whilst there are many exciting attractions, it is the lively fish market in the central Plaza de las Flores that is a particular highlight. To truly explore the beauty and wonder of the Andalusian coast, Cadiz is the perfect destination.

 

13Segovia

Segovia Spain

Segovia is one of Spain’s most picturesque cities and is only a one-hour drive from Madrid (two hours by rail). Located in the autonomous community of Castile and León in Spain, Segovia is a World Heritage City, famous for its ancient Roman aqueduct, which dates back to the 1st century AD.

The aqueduct is one of the most impressive Roman Empire relics in Spain. The aqueduct, which carried water from La Acebeda to the Alcázar across a distance of more than 17 km, is built up of 166 arches. This structure defies gravity since no mortar of any type was employed in its construction; instead the only thing that keeps the structure standing is its balance of forces. This structure itself makes a trip to Segovia well worth and one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Segovia’s old town is filled with narrow streets and alleyways that date back to the Middle Ages, including the Jewish Quarter, which is home to many historic buildings, synagogues, and museums. Segovia is also known for its delicious cuisine, such as its famous roast suckling pig and its delectable sweets made from almond paste known as Ponche Segoviano.

 

14Barcelona 

Sagrada Familia barcelona

Situated on Spain’s northeastern coast between the mountains and the blue waters of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is capital of the Catalonia region and one of the places to visit in Spain. Barcelona is full of character with narrow cobbled streets, bustling plazas, outdoor markets, street performers, shops and nightlife. Known for its beautiful architecture, the city is rich in art too and intrinsically linked with Coudi, Miró and Picasso. Barcelona is a city with a passion for sports, and it is home to two of the world’s most successful football clubs, FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol.

There are so many fun things to do in Barcelona, with something of interest for everyone and is the perfect destination all year round. Overall, Barcelona is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, architecture, art, culture, sports, or simply enjoying the vibrant street life of a bustling European city.

Related: Fun Things To Do in Barcelona 

 

15Sitges

Sitges Spain

Sitges is a picturesque coastal town located just under an hour away from Barcelona. Loacted along the Mediterranean Sea, it is livey town known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife and collection of charming whitewashed buildings. Since the 19th century, Sitges has been regarded as one of best places to visit in Spain. Sitges mayeb a small town but it can certianly party big. The town is home to many bars, clubs, and discos that stay open until the early hours of the morning. It’s a popular destination for the LGBTQ+ community, with many gay bars and clubs located in the town center.

16 
Granada

Granada

One of the most fascinating cities in eastern Andalusia, located between the rivers Darro and Genil, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains is Granada. It is a city with a rich history, culture, and architecture, its stunning landscapes, world-famous landmarks, and delicious cuisine make it one of the best places to holiday in Spain.

Granada was the last city to be retaken by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, giving the city an undeniably Moorish taste. One of the main attractions in Granada is the Alhambra, a magnificent Moorish palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century. The Alhambra is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in the world, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Generalife, a summer palace and garden complex that was built by the Nasrid dynasty in the 14th century is also well worth a visit. The Generalife features stunning gardens, fountains, and pools, and it offers breathtaking views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Its locating at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Enjoy the city’s delicious cuisine, which includes local specialties such as tapas, gazpacho, and piononos, a sweet pastry filled with cream.

 

17Valencia

Where to go on holiday in March valencia Spain

Valencia is a city full of contrasts, where a charming old town blends seamlessly with futuristic buildings. It is the third largest city in Spain and is a year round destination. One of the main attractions in Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex that houses several cultural and scientific institutions. The complex is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain.

Another highlight of Valencia is its beaches, which are some of the most beautiful in Spain. The city’s main beach, Playa de la Malvarrosa, is a popular destination, and offers a wide range of water sports, as well as beachside bars and restaurants.

The city is home to many excellent restaurants, bars, and markets. No trip to Valencia is complete without trying the star dish, paella, as well as other delicacies like clams or tiger nut milk. Visit Valancia during one of the most famous festivals, Fallas festival, which takes place every March and involves parades, fireworks, and the burning of giant paper mache sculptures.