Granada
The city of Granada is not large in size, but it has definitely preserved the typical Spanish culture and architecture. Completely preserved in the history of Andalusia, the city is located in the south of Spain and is the capital of the province of Granada. Some of the most famous attractions here are the Granada Cathedral dating back to the 16th century, as well as the Alhambra with its beautiful gardens and Arabic baths.
In neighborhoods like Sacromonte and Albaicin, you will find true Spanish culture. If you want to see traditional flamenco and what the life of the local gypsies was like, Sacromonte is the right place. Albaicin, on the other hand, is the Arab neighborhood known for its spice market, which sells exotic teas, spices, tapestries, and wall hangings.
If you go beyond the city limits and reach Nevada Ski station you will find many opportunities for sports – climbing, horseback riding, or hiking.
Your evenings will also not be boring, offering you the opportunity to tour the local bars or eat traditional dishes such as tapas or paella.
Barcelona
Barcelona is located in northwestern Spain and is the capital of Catalonia. Here you will find everything for an unforgettable vacation – from nightclubs and entertainment venues to museums, amazing architecture, delicious food, and shopping.
One of the most famous tourist destinations is the Gothic Quarter in the Old Town. It is filled with Roman ruins, ancient churches, restaurants, and cafes. Significant for Barcelona are the architectural works of Anthony Gaudi – Sagrada Familia and the Casa Batllo.
If you decide to tour the city by public transport, it is good to know that the center of public transport is La Placa Catalunya.
In addition to everything listed so far, Barcelona boasts numerous art galleries, museums, flamenco performances, and music festivals. One of the most famous is the Monegros Desert Festival. A must-stop for sports fans is the Nou Camp – the largest football stadium in the world.
Mallorca
Surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, Mallorca is one of the most popular Balearic Islands. The island will welcome you with a pleasantly warm climate, sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and small villages along the coast.
Higher in the mountains, you will find ancient churches with a rich history. The place is ideal for all kinds of water sports and in every restaurant, you will find delicious local food.
The capital Palma de Mallorca will impress you with its centuries-old buildings, narrow shady streets, and rich history.
Madrid
Madrid is a truly cosmopolitan city. There are many universities, old historic districts, museums, and art galleries, but there are also places for entertainment and nightlife.
The capital of Spain (and also the largest city) captivates visitors also with spacious squares, the most famous of which are Puerta del Sol, where large gatherings and festivals are held, and Plaza Mayor famous for its many souvenirs shops, cafes, restaurants, and San Miguel Market. Near the city center are attractions such as the Royal Palace, various ancient churches and historic buildings.
Seville
With a rich history, exciting nightlife, and many festivals, Seville has something to show tourists. As the capital of Andalusia, the city is also a major financial and cultural center.
One of the most important places is Real Alcazar, a place with many large flower gardens, where Christopher Columbus’ journey to the New World is probably planned. Metropol Parasol, which is also housed here, is the largest wooden structure in the world (in the form of an umbrella).
During the annual April Fair, Seville becomes a real party destination with endless music and dancing. The city also houses a number of museums and galleries.
Valencia
The architectural, scientific, and art center of the area of the same name, Valencia is famous for its restored ancient churches and monasteries, as well as the former silk market called the Silk Exchange Market.
In general, the city has been considerably renovated and reconstructed, and one of the new landmarks is the City of Arts and Science. Here you will find an aquarium, a planetarium, a science museum, an IMAX theater, extensive gardens, an athletics park, and artificial lakes.
One of the most famous and diverse neighborhoods is Barri del Carme, housing various ethnic groups, shops, cafes, and architectural monuments. Fallas Festival is held every year in March in Valencia and is an exhibition of papier-mâché figures presented by each neighborhood in all sizes and colors.
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. This is the capital of Gipuzko province, also known for its culinary delights. This small town was almost destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars and then restored.
Playa de la Concha and Playa de la Zurriola are two of the most beautiful and beloved beaches, great for sunbathing and all kinds of water sports, and the mountain areas of Monte Urgell and Mount Igueldo are ideal for long shady hikes, eating, wonderful views.
One of the most famous local dishes is Pintxos, which is an appetizer including fresh vegetables, seafood, and meat. San Sebastian hosts a film and jazz festival every year.
Cordoba
Cordoba is one of the oldest cities in Europe and is distinguished by its cultural and historical attractions, although it is one of the small towns in southern Spain (in the region of Andalusia). The long narrow streets of the city, squares, and landmarks such as the Mezquita – a cathedral originally built as a mosque, preserve the ancient appearance of the city, the specific feel, and impressive architecture.
In the courtyards of the medieval building of the Mezquita, you will find amazing relaxing orange gardens. Cordoba is a particularly interesting city because of the remnants of Roman culture preserved from the Middle Ages.
Some of the most interesting sights are Christian Monarchs, the Street of Flowers, and the Old Jewish Quarter. Like most Spanish tourist cities, Cordoba is rich in shops, squares, and museums. The main square is called the Plaza de las Tendillas.
In May, three major festivals take place here, turning the city into an arena of endless festivities, flamenco dancing, and entertainment.
Toledo
Until the 16th century, Toledo was the capital of Spain, and today is a major tourist destination. Since ancient times, the city has been inhabited by Jews, Christians, and Muslims and from there became known as the “City of Three Cultures.”.
Today in Toledo you will find many old temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues. In the narrow streets, you will find remains from the Roman era, as well as many cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. The city was home to the famous writer El Greco, which is a guarantee of a rich cultural heritage.
One of the most delicious dishes you can try here is the sweet Mazapan, prepared with almonds and pine nuts.
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is located in northwestern Spain and is the capital of the Galicia region. The rich cultural heritage and historical significance is due to the fact that the city is the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago (or the Way of St. James). The history of this road dates back to the Middle Ages, and legend has it that Santiago de Compostela is the place where St. James, one of the apostles of Christ, was buried.
The main square of the city is Praza do Obradoiro, and here is a large chat of the main attractions – in the first place Santiago Cathedral, where the tomb of St. James. The Pilgrimage Museum is also a must-see if you want to learn more about the sacred road.
Ronda
Located on the steep branches of El Tajo gorge, Ronda reveals incredible views of the rocky terrain. The main tourist attraction here is the Puente Nuevo bridge, built in 1793 and connecting the modern part of the city of El Mercadillo and the ancient Moorish quarter. It is believed that bullfighting originated here.
The rich history of the city and the incredible views it offers have intrigued not only millions of tourists but also writers such as Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce.
Segovia
Segovia is located not far from Madrid and captivates visitors with its incredible views, impressive with the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains as a backdrop in the distance. The city has an extremely rich historical heritage, as evidenced by the symbol of the city – the Aqueduct of Segovia, dating from the Roman era.
Of course, here you will find other sights such as the Gothic Cathedral, many beautiful ancient churches, as well as the medieval Alcazar of Segovia, favorite of many Spanish nobles over the centuries.
Ibiza
Ibiza is an island famous for its endless parties, rich nightlife, sandy beaches, and beautiful views. The third largest of the Balearic Islands, it boasts quite ancient parts, especially in its largest city – Ibiza Town.
Cuenca
This city is located in the Castilla La Mancha region on the ridge where two flooded rivers meet. His strategic destination led to great battles for his conquest and Napoleon himself left a mark here. Over the centuries, the city has been ruled by both Muslims and Christians, which today gives us the opportunity to see ancient churches, mosques, and many art galleries.
What Cuenca is best known for, however, are the casas colgadas – the hanging houses built on top of the hill where the city is located. They are a true marvel of architecture and promise tourists amazing views.
Salamanca
One of the most beautiful Renaissance cities, Salamanca, is located on the banks of the Tormes River. The city has preserved many historical monuments, as well as the Old and New Cathedrals, built of sandstone (which yellow color gives the city the name “Golden City”).
Life boils most in the city center Plaza Mayor, where there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Bilbao
Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque Country, known for its humid climate, dense greenery, but also as an important industrial center until two decades ago.
After the construction of the Guggenheim Museum, the city became a major tourist destination for millions of tourists who come to tour its huge halls filled with representatives of modern and contemporary art.
Merida
Dating back to the Roman era around 25 AD in Merida you will find some of the best-preserved ancient ruins in all of Spain and on almost every corner.
The city is located in the Iberian Peninsula and two rivers flow through it. It is mandatory to visit one of the flamenco performances or musical events in the Roman Theater, Moorish fortress, or the aqueduct, bridge, and hippodrome built by the Romans, as well as the baroque churches in the area.
Canary Islands
Probably many tourists would compare the archipelago of the seven Canary Islands with a tropical vacation. And indeed, they have first-class resorts, hot beaches, and amazing views.
Each island has its own charm and places to visit – for example, Tenerife boasts the third largest volcano in the world. On Lanzarote is Timanfaya National Park, where anyone can try camel riding. The islands offer endless possibilities from places for walks and hikes, sports, or just a relaxing vacation.
Alicante
Alicante is located next to Valencia and is best known as a destination for beach holidays, entertainment, and relaxation. One of the largest and most popular beaches is San Juan Beach. The city area will also not be uninteresting with the large selection of places with delicious food and cultural destinations such as the Archaeological Museum of Alicante.
La Rioja
La Rioja is the perfect place for your vacation if you are a fan of good wine and winemaking. With over 500 wineries in the region and a number of restaurants offering local Rioja wine, the city also offers a variety of places to enjoy delicious local delicacies.
Conclusion
Spain is a country with an extremely old and eventful history. In every corner, you will find preserved remains from centuries and you will be transported back in time. You will find the rich and colorful culture in the art galleries and museums as well as in every local shop or restaurant. If you just want a peaceful and relaxing vacation, Spain has something to offer again.
