Spain combines art, tradition, culture, history, gastronomy and extraordinary landscapes. Spain’s natural wealth is infinite, as are its cities of cultural and architectural interest. Spain, in the Iberian Peninsula of Europe, stands out due to its particular vibrancy and charm among all European countries. Summarising the great attributes of this country in one post is truly a feat. However, here are some of the best-rated and most interesting cities to visit in Spain, as well as the most attractive spots and natural landscapes.
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Top cities to see in Spain
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is the capital of Spain, and a cultural reference point in the country. With an incredible urban area, Madrid has an infinite amount of attractive tourist spots. The Puerta del Sol is located in the centre of Madrid, and is one of the most visited places in the city. This is Kilometre Zero, as it is considered the starting point of all the roads in Spain. The Royal Palace, is considered the largest in Western Europe. THe Royal Palace is a real architectural jewel and one of the main landmarks to see in Madrid.
The Plaza Mayor is one of the busiest spots in the city and certainly one of the most beautiful places to see in Madrid. In the vicinity of this square you will find the Mercado de San Miguel, one of the places where you can try Spanish recipes at an excellent quality. The Prado Museum houses some of the most famous works of art in the world and is one of the most important museums in Spain.
The Gran Vía is the most important avenue in the city and starts at Calle Alcalá and ends at Plaza España. Along the way you can see some of Madrid’s most beautiful buildings, such as the iconic Metrópolis Building or the impressive Telefónica Building. Of course, there is a lot to see in Madrid, so if you want to know more, read our post: Things to do and see in Madrid.
Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the most modern cities in Spain, with unique urban planning and world famous architecture. As such, it is home to many of the most interesting and unique places to see in Spain. La Sagrada Familia of course plays an important role in Barcelona’s culture, as this imposing monument, besides being one of the most visited in Spain, perfectly represents the modernist architecture of the famous architect Gaudí, which can be found all over the city.
On the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s main thoroughfare, you will find some of Gaudí’s finest works, such as Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. The Barrio Gotico is the heart of the city. Here you enter one of the oldest and most charming areas to see in Barcelona.
It is impossible to travel to Barcelona and not stroll along Las Ramblas. This famous street, approximately 1.2 km long, starts at the Plaza de Cataluña and ends at the port of Barcelona. It is also one of the most iconic promenades in the city. To find out what else you can see in this fantastic city, read our post: Things to do and see in Barcelona.
Seville
Seville is one of the most visited cities in Spain and one of the best known worldwide. It is a city full of colour, light and life, which embraces visitors with its art and beauty. Divided by the Guadalquivir River, Seville has some of the most important monuments in the country. Moreover, an endless list of artistic, historical and architectural points of interest.
The Cathedral of Seville is one of the most important monuments of the Andalusian capital, and has been declared a World Heritage Site. The Giralda is one of the must-see sights of the Andalusian capital and decorates the symbolic Cathedral of Seville.
The Real Alcázar is a splendid palace complex that has been declared a World Heritage Site. Decorated with beautiful gardens and royal courtyards, this exceptional location used to film some scenes in the TV show Game of Thrones. Most notable of all, the Plaza de España is one of the most spectacular places to see in Seville and one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. To find out what else to see in Seville, don’t miss our post Things to do and see in Seville.
Valencia
Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, and sits on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and Valencia’s Town Hall, is the heart of the city. Its structure has a large, pedestrianised area where you can stroll around and browse the beautiful flower stalls that decorate the entire square. Valencia’s Central Market exudes the essence of the city, selling Valencian products and flavours. The Quart Towers are two impressive late Gothic towers that functioned as fortified gates in the medieval wall of Valencia. These gates lead the way to the Barrio del Carmen, one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods. Moreover, it is where you will find the soul of Valencia, as it is the old town.
The Albufera Natural Park is also a place to connect with nature and appreciate the most rural Valencian landscape. It is located in the outskirts of Valencia, just 10 km away by car. If you want to know what else to see in this Mediterranean city, read our post: Things to do and see in Valencia.
Granada, Spain
Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain, and is the main destination for tourists travelling to Andalusia. It is world famous for the Alhambra and for all its monuments; the Generalife, the Palace of Charles V, the Alcazaba, the incredible Nasrid Palaces and the iconic Patio de los Leones. The historic quarter is the heart of Granada. It is an area you can stroll through time and time again, enjoying every nook, bar, alley, courtyard and square.
The essence of Andalusia can be found in its neighbourhoods and its people, and the Albaicín neighbourhood is one of those places where you will see that magic. In its narrow streets, the beauty and authenticity of Granada begs to be discovered. The white houses and unique streets make this an unforgettable walk. The Paseo de los Tristes not only lives up to its name, but is also one of the most beautiful walks in the city. Surrounded by palaces, museums and medieval buildings, it runs along the famous Carrera Del Darro, the most beautiful street in the city. To find out more, take a look at our post; Things to do and see in Granada, Spain.
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Places to see in Northern Spain
Galicia
Known for its historic cities, stunning coastline full of cliffs and lighthouses, Galicia and its unique culture is an area of northern Spain you can’t miss. Galicia has the best of Spanish gastronomy and nature, such as the Cies Islands. The Cíes Islands are an archipelago located in the outer part of the Vigo estuary. They belong to the National Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia. These islands are one of Galicia’s best-kept treasures due to their paradisiacal beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Cape Fisterra hides the real secret of the Costa da Morte, as it is home to wild landscapes and stunning beaches. It marks the end of the Camino de Santiago, but it also has the most moving sight of all, the most impressive sunset in Spain, over the immensity of the ocean, the sea at the end of the world. Also, the Fragas do Eume Natural Park is one of the best preserved Atlantic riverside forests in Europe. In this forest there are thousands of shades of green, and a mysterious mist floats as if by magic.
Discover all the magical places to see in Galicia in: Things to do and see in Galicia, Spain.
Cantabria
To talk about Cantabria is to talk about nature, sea, mountains and a rich history. Everything in this community is visually stunning, and offers a unique travel experience. The north of Spain has a mosaic of incomparable landscapes where the purest greens blend with the deepest blue of the Cantabrian Sea. In Cantabria you will discover charming coastal towns such as Comillas, full of ancestral homes, picturesque façades and a sense of magic. Likewise, Largo and Laredo, where you can follow the famous beach route that runs along the coast between the two towns, and discover some of the most impressive beaches in the province. Starting with the beach of Langre whose cliffs and the abrupt views of this landscape will leave you speechless.
Read our post Things to see and do in Cantabria, and discover the best itineraries so you don’t miss anything in this special place.
Basque Country
Only 19 km from France, San Sebastian is a popular destination, thanks especially to its urban beach La Concha and the green landscape that surrounds it. In its historic centre are the remains of what the city was centuries ago. This coastal city is home to the highest number of Michelin stars per square metre in the world, making it the most important point for Spanish gastronomy.
The Basque Country is also a paradise for surfers thanks to its big waves and stunning beaches. You can’t miss all its coastal villages and the magic they hold. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is without a doubt the most famous seaside chapel in Spain, as it was also used in Game of Thrones. It faces the Cantabrian Sea, drawing an infinite staircase that will allow you to admire the beauty of the landscape full of cliffs and wild beaches.
Best islands to see in Spain
Both the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands stand out for their incredible attractions and natural beauty. All the individual islands have something special and are very important destinations to visit in Spain. However, we have selected the most symbolic and famous ones to see if you travel to Spain.
Ibiza, an island you have to see in Spain
Ibiza is perhaps the star holiday destination in Spain and abroad. It is also known for its parties, bars and hippie Mediterranean atmosphere. It has some of the most stunning scenery and spectacular crystal clear waters in the world. This island is full of stunning beaches where you can enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. Cala d’Hort is a small yet charming beach, with amazing views over the mysterious islet of Es Vedrà. For many, Cala Conta needs no introduction. It has wonderful views of the scattered islands off the coast of Ibiza and its beautiful turquoise waters invite you to take a dip. It is one of the most special places in Ibiza to watch the sunset, because it is the most westerly point on the island, exactly where the sun goes down.
If you want to find out more about the charms of this island, don’t miss: Things to see and do in Ibiza.
Mallorca
This island also stands out for its beaches and Mediterranean natural spaces. It is a place where you can enjoy a perfect summer of sun and beaches, full of interesting things to do. This is one of the most famous of the Balearic Islands, known worldwide for its partying. Mallorca dispels all myths as soon as you set foot on it and discover its great natural and gastronomic wealth. Saltos in Es Pontàs is one of the most beautiful natural arches of the Mediterranean and one of the most iconic images of Mallorca. Es Pontàs gets its name from the enormous natural rock bridge located in the sea in front of Cala Santanyí.
The Sierra de Tramontana is the backbone of Mallorca, 90 km long and whose highest peak, Puig Major, reaches a height of 1,445 metres, making it the highest mountain in the Balearic Islands. It is the perfect place for hiking along its endless routes such as the ‘ruta de pedra en sec’. Tramontana has wilder landscapes perfect for adventure and nature lovers.
Tenerife
The island of Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. Dominated by Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, this island is renowned for its incredible natural landscapes, and beautiful beaches with volcanic sand and Atlantic Ocean waters. Tenerife is also music, dance and colour, well known for the Carnival of Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of Tenerife and one of the places to try the local cuisine. The Teide National Park is located in the centre of the island of Tenerife. It is the highest peak in Spain, at 3,718 metres, and has been declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco.
The rural park of Anaga is also one of the essential places in Tenerife. It is considered a Natural Biosphere Reserve, due to the large number of local species that tlive there. The beach is one of the greatest attractions of Spain and of course of the island of Tenerife, where the Benijo beach stands out for its characteristic black volcanic sand. Find out more: Things to see and do in Tenerife.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, located off the northwest coast of Africa, is the most populated of the Canary Islands. It is an island full of charming villages, stunning natural areas and beautiful monuments. The lighthouse of Maspalomas is part of the landscape of the south of Gran Canaria. It is practically impossible to miss its characteristic silhouette from anywhere along the coast. In addition, the Special Nature Reserve of the Maspalomas Dunes is one of the best places to see in Gran Canaria.
The capital of Gran Canaria is one of the main attractions. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a big city with a multitude of symbolic places to see. Also, from Tejeda, a charming village located in the very centre of the island, you will be able to see the extraordinary inland landscapes, such as Roque de Nublo.
Do you want to know more? Don’t miss our post: Things to do in Gran Canaria.
Towns to see on the Mediterranean Coast of Spain
Costa Brava
Calella de Palafrugell
One of the most picturesque villages you must see on the Costa Brava and Catalonia in general, Calella de Palafrugell. It is a coastal village that has its origins in the fishermen of Palafrugell who settled on the coast to protect it from the pirates who arrived in the 18th century. Its symmetry, white houses and pretty coves make it a picture postcard image. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to stroll along the promenade, its Botanical Garden or the Camino de Ronda that runs the length of the coast.
Begur
This historic spot on the Costa Brava has several landmarks that represent key points in its history, with a boom in medieval times. Highlights include the small Romanesque settlement of Esclanyà, the castle on top of the hill, and the watchtowers that still stand in the historic centre. Most tourists who visit the town of Begur do so for its 8 beaches and coves with crystal clear waters and great natural beauty. The most popular are Sa Tuna and Aiguafreda, which provide the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. These coves are linked to each other thanks to the wonderful coastal paths.
Tossa de Mar
It is impossible to leave Tossa de Mar, one of the most beautiful villages of this autonomous community, out of our list of things to see in Catalonia. Its medieval walled enclosure is a unique construction on the coast of Catalonia. It was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931. The seafaring tradition can still be seen today in the old fishermen’s quarter of Sa Roqueta and in all the local dishes. So beautiful is Tossa de Mar that it was used in 1951 as the setting for the Ava Gardner film ‘Pandora and the Flying Dutchman’.
Costa Blanca
Javea
Considered one of the great jewels of the Costa Blanca, there are countless things to see in Javea. Located in the province of Alicante, it is one of the most charming towns on the coast. One of the most famous beaches in Spain, La Granadella, is located in this beautiful coastal town. Jávea has unspoilt corners, excellent food, and 15 viewpoints such as Els Molins or Punta del Castell where you can enjoy the marvellous landscapes.
Altea
Altea is characterised by its narrow streets with whitewashed houses that slope down to beautiful beaches. It is a must for sea lovers to snorkel and do water sports in its calm, crystal waters. Altea has just over 20,000 inhabitants but this town is not lacking in charm and beauty. Take a trip to the viewpoints of Portal Viejo or Santa Barbara and the route of the hermitages, or get lost in the old town. Discover what else to see in Altea in our post: Things to do and see in Altea, Spain.
Calpe, a must-see town in Spain
Calpe is home to the impressive Peñón de Ifach Natural Park. Although it has a beautiful coastline, where Los Baños de la Reina (the Queen’s Baths) are the highlight, it has many other places of interest. Among them, the Red Wall designed by the architect Ricardo Bofill, one of the most important fishing ports of the Costa Blanca, and its beautiful old town.
Costa Blanca Itinerary
Here is an itinerary you can follow to see the best spots on the Costa Blanca, courtesy of @marinapastor_1.
Costa de la Luz
Without a doubt one of the essential places to see on the Costa de la Luz is the city of Cadiz. Discover the things to see in Cadiz and be amazed by this incredible Spanish city. However, reviewing the coastal destinations that best represent this region of Spain, we have selected three villages in Cadiz that are home to the best beaches and landscapes of the Costa de la Luz.
Sanlúcar de Barrameda
Due to its monumental beauty, which is more than evident, and for being one of the gateways to the Doñana National Park. Boats leave from here every day to visit some of the places of interest in this impressive protected area.
Vejer de la Frontera
Andalusia is known for its charming whitewashed villages, and Vejer de la Frontera is the exact representation of this image. About 50km from the city of Cádiz, this village has become a major tourist attraction. Situated above the banks of the Barbate River, it is an ideal place to spend the day.
Zahara de los Atunes
Zahara de los Atunes is a charming coastal town with a great historical legacy. There are documents that prove that it dates back to 1400, but the area was already important in Roman times. Furthermore, this town stands out for its gastronomy, and as its name indicates, specifically for its tuna. Tuna is the town’s main product, and the almadraba fishing system is what has made it popular. Its beauty, light and cuisine are its main attractions, but its geographical position means that you can enjoy a spectacular landscape, with views of its plains and magnificent beaches.
How to organise the things to do in Spain?
You can use this post as a reference and combine it with the suggestions on the Passporter app. You’ll find a wide variety of ideas and inspiration on what to see and do in Spain. Thanks to the app you can sort your selection in order of preference as well as organise your routes through this beautiful country. If you don’t have the Passporter app yet, download it and start organising your next trips.
If you have doubts about how to get organised before leaving, and you are not sure how to plan your travel itinerary, read our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
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