Hola – Spain is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula in south-wester Europe. It is known for a number of things including great beaches, tasty food, flamenco dancing and iconic landmarks like Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia. You can even go skiing (or work)  in the snow-dusted Pyrenees. And you are heading there soon and want to know the best places to visit in Spain. 

Well, in this post I’ve got you covered. Thanks to a few fellow travel bloggers I’ve come up with a great list of some of the best places to visit in Spain. Whether you are heading to Spain on a weekend getaway, a week long break or on a longer 1 month Spain itinerary, there are plenty of options to choose so you can discover Spain for yourself. If you are visiting Spain on a holiday, it would be a shame not to experience some or, if not all of them. Are you ready to discover some of the best towns, cities, costas and islands of Spain?

Best Places to Visit in Spain

Please note, all the Spanish towns, cities, costas and islands are listed in alphabetical order and not in any order of preference. Here’s a map showing where these places are in Spain to help you organise your Spanish holiday.

Best Spanish Towns and Cities

Alicante

Favourite place in Spain of Marina @ Travel Eat Blog

The view of Alicante on the hike up to the Santa Barbara Castle

Alicante, located on the Mediterranean coast in the region of Valencia, combines beautiful beaches and rich history while maintaining a small-town feel compared to cities like Valencia and Barcelona.

One of the main attractions in Alicante is the Santa Barbara Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle’s museum is a great place to learn about the region’s history and the struggle between the Moors and the Christians. You can reach the castle on foot for a nice hike or take an elevator that has been excavated into the rock across from El Postiguet beach.

To get the full experience of Alicante, take a stroll down Explanada de España, a nearly 600-meter-long promenade lined with palm trees and 6.5 million marble tiles. Don’t leave Alicante without swimming and sunbathing at Playa del Postiguet, conveniently located near the city center.

For a truly unique experience, visit Alicante during the Bonfires of St John Festival (Hogueras de San Juan), held on the eve of the summer solstice to mark the arrival of summer. During the festival, the city transforms with music, fireworks, and traditional food. On the last night, you can experience a truly unique tradition – the burning of hogueras – enormous cardboard and wooden figures. 

Baga

Favourite Spanish villages of Stephanie @ Bey of Travel

picturesque street in Baga

Nestled in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, Baga is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. This picturesque village offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Catalan charm, making it a must-visit destination on any Spain travel itinerary. 

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Baga’s stunning mountainous landscapes are nothing short of a paradise. The region is perfect for hiking and nature walks, offering breathtaking views at every turn. 

If you are a culture-vulture, you can wander through the picturesque village center of Baga that will take you back in time. The charming stone houses and narrow streets provide a glimpse into traditional Catalan architecture. 

Every corner of this village tells a story, from the flower-adorned balconies to the rustic cobblestone pathways. It’s a photographer’s dream and a lovely place to simply get lost and explore.

History buffs will be captivated by the ancient church of Sant Esteve de Baga. This beautiful example of Romanesque architecture dates back to the 9th century. The church stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Inside, you’ll find intricate frescoes and stunning stained glass windows that transport you to another era.

Having visited Baga on a day trip from Barcelona, I can attest to its allure. The short drive from the bustling city to this tranquil haven is a refreshing change of pace.

Barcelona

Favourite Spanish city of Shweta @ Zest in a Tote

Casa Batllo

Barcelona, the cosmopolitan city in the Catalonia region of Spain, is known for its art and architecture. This Mediterranean city has excellent beaches and good weather. You will find the best of art, gastronomy and sports. 

It is a great option amongst European cities to visit in spring or early summer. The Basílica de la Sagrada Familia with its fantastical architecture is the top attraction. This 130-year labour of love, dreamt up by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the most visited. Barcelona has other attractions by Gaudi – Park Guell, Casa Milà, and Casa Batlló.

The city is packed with attractions, museums, tapas bars, and restaurants. Picasso Museum is one of the more famous museums. 

Palau de la Música will make your senses stir and take note of its architecture. You should spend an evening roaming around La Rambla, the most famous street in the city, lined with shops, flower stands, and artworks. 

Barcelona has miles of beaches, from Sant Sebastià to Llevant for families to enjoy. Many of the major sights are concentrated in the “old city” such as the cobblestoned Gothic Quarter and the medieval Born district. This sunny Spanish city is walkable, so getting around is uncomplicated. You can also get around using Barcelona’s smooth public transportation system.

Cordoba

Favourite city in Spain of Heather @ Conversant Traveller

The famous Mezquita in Cordoba

Cordoba is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain Andalucia region, just an hour by train from Malaga. It’s packed with historic sites, Moorish architecture, and buzzing tapas bars. One of the joys of Cordoba is that it’s a small city, so you can easily explore on foot.

The main attraction is the Mezquita, which sits in the heart of the old town. Once a mosque and then a cathedral, today the complex brings together two very different architectural and religious styles to create an eye-popping building full of arches, columns, and chapels. Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues.

Another popular thing to do is visit the Cordoba Patios Festival, which runs in May each year. This is when several residential properties in the city open up their flower-filled patios to visitors – it’s a unique tradition that goes back many years. Some courtyards are open all year round so you won’t miss out if you’re not here in May.

Other points of interest include the old Roman Bridge and the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. The latter is a 14^th-century palace with gorgeous gardens and panoramic city views. After sightseeing, refuel at one of the many tapas bars in the old centre – try the Cordoban Salmorejo, a chilled tomato soup that’s like gazpacho, only better.

Donostia-San Sebastián

Favourite city in Spain by Cosette @ KarsTravels

overlooking Donostia

San Sebastián or Donostia is a city in Northern Spain, close to the border with France. Donostia is the Basque name and San Sebastián the Spanish name. The city is located in the Basque Autonomous Community on the coast of the Bay of Biscay.

The city is situated around La Concha Bay, with on each end a hill, namely Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo. From both hills you’ll have grand views on the city. The combination of beaches, a beautiful old town and Basque cuisine is what makes a visit to San Sebastián a must on any France Spain Portugal road trip.

There are 3 beaches in San Sebastián; Playa la Concha, Playa de Ondarreta and Playa Zurriola. They’re crowded in the Summer months with locals and tourists alike. Finding a spot to lay down is possible, however you will be close to other people. The atmosphere is however relaxed.

Definitely try out pintxos, part of the Basque cuisine local to this area. Pintxos are a kind of tapas, they’re usually served on a slice of baguette with a skewer in them. They’re delicious and can be of high culinary quality.

Visit Parte Vieja, which is the old town of San Sebastián. It’s situated at the foot of Monte Urgull. It’s a small and cozy historical area.

At last take the Igeldoko Funikularra to visit Monte Igueldo. There’s a small theme park on top and you’ll have excellent views on the city and the bay.

El Bosque

Favourite town in Spain of Jan @ Leisurely Drives

View of the valleys and river below from Grazalema

The picturesque little town of El Bosque is located on the hills of Andalucia at about 287 metres above sea level. It is a gateway to the nature reserve – The Parque Natural de la Sierra de Grazalema.

There are various scenic drives from El Bosque on mountainous roads to Grazalema and to Zahara de la Sierra. The drives have various stunning ‘miradors’ – (lookouts) to get panoramic views of the valleys and mountains. The popular ones are Puerto de las Palomas, Puerto de los Acebuches and Puerto del Boyar. Layered mountain views are best seen at sunset.

El Bosque also has a good trout farm (the biggest southern fish farm in Europe), which is worth visiting.

Ronda, the famous historic town, which is perched dramatically above a deep gorge, is just an hour’s drive from El Bosque. Another choice for a day trip is Ubrique – a beautiful white village next to Rio Ubrique just a short drive from El Bosque.

White villages, forests and unique rocks can be viewed and explored through drives and hikes.

The ancient port city of Cádiz is just an hour’s drive from El Bosque. Excellent seafood, of which blue tuna and oysters are local specialities and the special Blue Sherry wine from Jerez are worth trying out.

El Bosque is the perfect base for those who love hikes, scenic drives and day trips. 

Estepona

Favourite spot in Spain of Penelope @ The Flyaway Girl

pretty street Estepona

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain is located in the second largest comunidad autónoma, Andalucía. Located only 45 minutes from Marbella and the same in the other direction to the border with Gibraltar, Estepona is an absolute gem to be found on the Costa del Sol.

Accurately known as the ‘Garden of the Costa del Sol’, this picturesque town seems to have something in bloom whatever time of year that you visit. Whether you visit for the town’s impressive Orquidarium (with an indoor waterfall, no less) or for the many charming streets lined with colourful flowerpots, there is sure to be something in Estepona for everyone.

Make sure to visit Plaza de las Flores, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, Parque del Carmen, Parque del Calvario, as well as seeing some of the many impressive murals brightening the façades of buildings. And the best part is, you’ll find your own favourite spots just by wandering around and seeing what you find.

Estepona brings the beauty of the Costa del Sol without having the influx of tourists that better known destinations like Marbella or Málaga have. It’s an absolute must visit in this region of Spain!

Gaudix

Favourite town of Sonia @ Happy Little Traveler

Caves and Troglodytes’ Houses in Guadix

Guadix is a small town located in Andalucia in Southern Spain. It sits at an altitude of 913m a.s.l at the northern foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Guadix is a great destination for a day trip from cities like Granada or Almeria and without a doubt, it’ll be one of the most unique places you’ll visit in Spain!

Guadix is best known for two things: caves and troglodytes’ houses. Seeing them will take you on a trip to another planet and the charming old town where you can easily spend hours wandering among its streets and getting to know every corner.

Exploring the Cave Houses Neighborhood, Barrio de las Cuevas, is definitely the best thing to do in Guadix. It’s a fascinating area where thousands of people, known as troglodytes, live in about 2000 underground cave houses. Currently, Guadix is home to the largest number of troglodyte houses in Europe! Additionally, you’ll also find great viewpoints with magnificent views over the surroundings.

In Guadix’s old town don’t miss places like Cathedral, square Plaza de la Constitución, Alcazaba, ruins of the Roman Theater, and some lovely viewpoints like Mirador de la Magdalena.

As of now, this Guadix is also considered a hidden gem destination mostly known to Spaniards and relatively unknown to tourists. Thanks to that no huge crowds are guaranteed!

Girona

Favourite Spanish city of Lavina @ Continent Hop

Girona is a city of religious landmarks and historical monuments. Located between the Pyrenees mountains and the Costa Brava, it combines natural beauty with modern vibes. Be it the remains of Força Vella fortress or the spectacular Girona Cathedral, you will find a plethora of things to see here.

The well-preserved medieval old town of Girona, a true gem, has gained fame after being featured as the city of Braavos in Game of Thrones. The Baroque stairs of Girona Cathedral, used to shoot the infamous walk of shame scene in GOT season 6, are just one of the many stunning features of this town.

Go to the popular Jewish Quarter, and you will find the winding alleys and narrow lanes seen in the GOT. The Jewish Quarter, known as El Call, will take you 500 years back. The amalgamation of architecture and history draws millions of tourists here. Stop by the Museu d’Història dels Jueus to know more about this part of the city.

Take a walk along the city’s eastern border, where medieval walls stand tall even after centuries. Go to the top of the walls and enjoy the panoramic view. Spend some time sipping coffee in one of the cafes around Plaça Independencia, as this lively square is the perfect place for watching the world go by.

If you love the medieval vibes of Girona, consider a day trip from Girona to Pals, as this hilltop town is perfect for your Spain itinerary.

Granada

Favourite city in Spain of Trisha @ Try Wandering More

overlooking Granada

Granada, located in Andalusia in southern Spain, is an enchanting city with a rich history, stunning architecture from Moorish palaces to Renaissance cathedrals, and a vibrant cultural scene that you won’t be able to get enough of.

Most people visit Granada for the Alhambra, a magnificent palace and fortress complex perched on a hill overlooking the city. It is a must-visit for its Islamic architecture: intricate designs, colourful tile work, serene courtyards with fountains and landscaped gardens. The views of the city and mountains beyond from here are simply unforgettable.

However, Granada is more than just the Alhambra. Stroll along its narrow cobbled-stone streets lined with orange trees, walk past cute whitewashed houses, and see lively squares filled with soulful music for a real feel of Granda. The city centre and Albaicin neighbourhood are perfect for such a saunter.

Granda comes alive in the evening! Join in this merriment by visiting a few tapas bars where you get free tapas along with your drink, enabling you to sample different local dishes. And of course, you can’t leave Granada without watching a flamenco performance because the city is renowned for it. Check out a local flamenco bar or the famous Sacramento caves for a passionate performance that gives you a peek into traditional Andalusian life.

Do add Granada to your Spain travel plans; you’ll love it!

Madrid

Favourite Spanish city of Tamara @ My Elated Odyssey

Madrid

Looking for one of the best cities in Spain? Madrid will not disappoint! This city has something for every traveler, including cultural offerings, shopping, cuisine, and attractions.

Madrid is Spain’s capital and is located in the country’s center. Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring other destinations. You can also easily make a day trip to neighboring cities like Toledo and Segovia.

Madrid’s rich history and bustling environment set it apart from other Spanish cities. It is an epicenter for shopping, a delicious culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and diverse neighborhoods.

While often compared with the equally famous city of Barcelona, Madrid has a more authentic feel than Barcelona. If that’s what you prefer more than an international city, Madrid needs to be on your Spanish itinerary!

Madrid has so many attractions that you’ll likely need a second visit. The best things to do are visit El Retiro Park, the Royal Palace, Gran Vía, and the Templo de Debod.

An added convenience is that the city has many efficient transportation options to get you to the different highlights. Whether you take Uber, the metro, or the buses, you’ll have no problem reaching your destination.

The capital city is also a haven for art lovers. The famous Prado Museum holds thousands of paintings and sculptures from the 12th to 20th centuries! Reina Sofía National Art Museum is another museum featuring work from Dali and Picasso.

Marbella

Favourite places in Spain of Cristina @ My Little World of Travelling

Marbella Old Town

Located on the Costa del Sol, Marbella is one of the best places to visit in Spain. It is a 45-minute drive from Malaga Airport and offers a different experience than Malaga.

The town is the perfect getaway for an upscale experience. It is well-known for having the most expensive port in Spain and incredible 5 and 4-star resorts that even celebrities stay at.

However, there is more beyond Puerto Banus and the Golden Mile. You can have a more authentic experience by visiting its charming historic centre, home to white-painted buildings, narrow streets and beautiful plazas.

In addition, Marbella has many awarded blue flag beaches that can be enjoyed in the summer and off-season, as the town has a microclimate that protects it from the cold and over 300 sunny days. 

If you love hiking, there are many nearby hiking trails. You can do the Benahavis Riverwalk in the summer or the La Concha hike off-season when the temperatures are more suitable for walking.

Lastly, another reason to visit Marbella is its fantastic day trips. Whether you love visiting wineries or the typical Andalusian white villages, there are plenty of excursions within a short drive. I personally love the Ronda to Marbella day trip, where you can visit the historic centre of Ronda, eat tapas and try some of the best Malaga wines.

Although it is a popular summer destination, Marbella in winter is a good idea for travellers looking for a winter sun getaway.

Montserrat Mountain

One of the best places to visit in Spain of Claire @ Why Visit Barcelona

The Montserrat Monastery

Montserrat is a special place.  The name “Montserrat” literally translates as “serrated mountain,” and refers to the jagged peaks of the mountain that look like the teeth of a saw.  This spectacular mountain range is an hour from Barcelona and is one of the best places to visit in Spain for its natural beauty and religious significance.

Montserrat is home to Montserrat Monastery. This is a Benedictine abbey that houses a statue of the Black Madonna known as La Moreneta and is an important pilgrimage site.  There are lots of things to do in Montserrat but visiting the Black Madonna statue is one of the most popular for tourists and pilgrims alike. The statue dates back to the late 12^th century and is said to grant wishes and to heal people who touch her.  She is kept in a Basilica dedicated to her, in a chapel that looks out over the basilica above the altar.  The Montserrat Boys Choir which sings here is one of the oldest in the world.

Aside from the Basilica and statue, there is also a museum at Montserrat that has a wonderful collection of religious art. Including Penitent Saint Jerome by Caravaggio, and of works by Catalan artists and artists who have been inspired by the Catalan landscape.

Montserrat is also popular for hikers. There are various trails criss-crossing the mountains, all of which have stunning views of Montserrat and the surrounding countryside.  The Sant Joan Funicular whisks you further up the mountain for more incredible views of the monastery and the mountain peaks behind it.

Ronda

A favourite spot in Spain of Alison @  Alison on Foot

The Puente Nuevo (new bridge) spans the El Tajo gorge in Ronda, Andalucia

No visit to Spain should be complete without a visit to Ronda, one of the many ‘pueblos blancos’ (white villages) that Andalucia is famous for. 

A 90 minute drive inland from Malaga, Ronda is a world away from the beach resorts of the nearby Costa del Sol. Clinging to the edge of El Tajo gorge the town is split in two by the Guadalevin river with the Puente Nuevo (new bridge) spanning the gorge. 

The Puente Nuevo is one of Andalucia’s most recognisable landmarks and the views from the top across the Serrania de Ronda are spectacular. However, if you want the picture postcard photo of the bridge you’ll need to head down into the gorge. 

There’s an official gorge walk, Desfiladero del Tajo. This involves a short hike on a well maintained path to a viewing platform at the base of the bridge. If you have the time and energy it’s well worth hiking to the bottom of the gorge.

It may only be a small town but there are so many things to see and do in Ronda. Walking around the old town you’ll find something new around every corner. A cute square to stop for a drink and some tapas, churches and historical buildings galore, and several museums. In the new town there’s the bullring which has an interesting museum where you can learn about the history of bullfighting, even if you don’t agree with it. 

Ronda also has plenty of bars and restaurants so you can work up an appetite sightseeing knowing that you definitely won’t go hungry. 

Santiago de Compostela

Favourite city in Spain of Megan @ Packing up the Pieces

View over Santiago de Compostela

One of the best places to visit in Spain is the city of Santiago de Compostela. Found in the northwest corner of Spain, Santiago de Compostela is the bustling capital city of the Galicia region. It is most famous for being the ending point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. 

Pilgrims walk for days, weeks, or months to stand before the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela. The Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela is said to burial place of Saint James and pilgrims have been walking here since the Middle Ages.

Besides the Camino de Santiago, the city itself offers many things to see and do. The Old Town is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with tapas bars, museums, and significant historical buildings tied to the Camino.

The city boasts green spaces, inviting parks, and viewpoints that will take your breath away. Do visit the Abastos Market to sample traditional cuisine and fresh seafood.

To get a real taste of the city, try to spend at least 2 days in Santiago de Compostela. With more time, get out and experience some of the best day trips from the city.

Santiago de Compostela is surrounded by green hillsides and charming small towns. An unforgettable experience is a day trip to the coast to appreciate the white sand beaches on the shores of the frigid turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. More noteworthy things to do include visiting the vineyards of the Rías Baixas, spending time in the numerous authentic fishing villages, or hiking up a mystical mountain.

Segovia

Favourite place in Spain of Moumita @ Chasing the Long Road

Segovia Aqueduct

Located in the heart of the Castile and León region, Segovia is one of the most historic cities in Spain. It lies almost 100 km northwest of Madrid, the capital city of Spain. From exploring a fairy-tale castle to sampling some delicious local cuisines, there are plenty of intriguing things to do in Segovia to make you fall in love with this charming city. Furthermore, the Old Town of Segovia is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the main tourist attractions of Segovia is the iconic Roman Aqueduct – an engineering marvel with two tiers of arches built around the middle of the first century. This impressive structure once carried water from the Frío River to the city. This city is also home to a magnificent fortress, The Alcazar – believed to be one of the inspirations for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Throughout history, it has served as a royal palace, a state prison, and a military academy. Climb to the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Next, take a short stroll to Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos for a breathtaking view of the Alcazar. Segovia Cathedral, the last Gothic cathedral of Spain, lies in the Plaza Mayor. This 16th-century cathedral boasts stunning stained glass windows, intricate altarpieces, and a tranquil cloister.

This city has its claim to fame for culinary treats. The famous Spanish dish, Cochinillo or Suckling Pig, originated in Segovia. 

Seville

Best place to visit in Spain of Charlotte @ The Travel Psychologist 

Outside the Real Alcazar in Seville 

Seville is located inland in the Andalucia region of South-West Spain. It’s a small but beautiful city full of charm, with streets lined with orange trees. The size, beauty, culture and the many things to do make Seville the perfect city break

The must-see places include the Cathedral, the Royal Palace known as Real Alcazar, and The Plaza de Espana. Each provides historical interest as well as being pretty places to visit. A more modern must-see is ‘Las Setas’ which is a mushroom shaped wooden structure in the Old Town. From the top you can see a fantastic panoramic view of the city.

Seville is famous for Flamenco and you will find a range of flamenco bars known as ‘tablaos’ offering evening performances. You will see street performers dancing on wooden boards all around the city. This can give you a flavour of what to expect but don’t miss out on a show as they can be mesmerising. If you are really keen you can even visit the Flamenco museum.

Andalucia is one of the regions where tapas is thought to have originated, and the food in Seville does not disappoint. Whether you want traditional tapas bars or upmarket options with a modern twist, you will find them all in Seville.

Seville is easy to reach by Spain’s excellent train network so can be easily combined with a visit to Madrid, Granada or Malaga.

Valencia

Favourite spot in Spain of Linn @ Brainy Backpackers

Valencia is a must-visit in Spain and a unique destination on the east coast with its modern city of Arts and Sciences and the quaint old town. You should spend at least 2 days in Valencia to see the most prominent attractions. Spend at least half a day at the City of Arts and Sciences, the futuristic architecture is incredible and just walking around the recreational area between the buildings is great with the beautiful waterscapes. In the old town, don’t miss out on the cathedral and make sure you walk up to the rooftop to enjoy the views of the square below and Valencia’s skyline.

Another site you should visit is the Silk Exchange which is not only an architectural wonder, but also an important historical site reminiscing of the times when Valencia’s silk trade flourished. Throughout the old town, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and straight out beautiful buildings, so make sure you make time for just walking around and sitting down with a drink or some tapas to take in the surroundings. Valencia is also the birthplace of the famous Spanish rice dish, paella, so you can’t leave the city without trying it at least once. You even find vegan paella, so there are no excuses.

Paella Recipe

Best Spanish Costas

A costa in Spain means coastline, and Spain has some of the most spectacular coastline I have seen. And there are a number of popular costas where locals and visitors to Spain love to visit. These costas include the Costa del Sol (the Sun Coast), Costa Brava (the Wild Coast) and Costa Blanca (the White Coast).

Costa Blanca

Favourite costa of Sabine @ Discover Spain Today

Postiguet Beach in Alicante with Santa Barbara Castle on the hill

Located on Spain’s southeastern Mediterranean coastline, the Costa Blanca, or the White Coast is a prime travel destination and a must-visit place in Spain. The region enjoys year-round mild temperatures with an average of 320 days of sunshine annually while boasting pristine beaches, historical sites, delicious local cuisine and a rich cultural heritage.

Apart from visiting vibrant coastal towns like Benidorm, Calpe, and Denia or quieter fishing villages like Altea and Villajoyosa, there are plenty of activities and inland areas to explore. For thrilling adventures, the Costa Blanca offers fun attractions and water parks like Aqualandia, Terra Mítica, and Mundomar. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the surrounding mountain ranges of Puig Campana, Sierra Helada and Sierra Aitana or climb the iconic Peñon de Ifach in Calpe.

Accessibility is excellent with the Alicante-Elche Airport conveniently located in the middle of the Costa Blanca. Alicante, the largest city in the region, serves as a great base to explore the rest of the Costa Blanca. For day trips from Alicante, visit picturesque villages like Guadalest, the stunning Canelobre Caves, Europe’s largest palm grove in Elche, the red lakes in Torrevieja or take a boat trip to Tabarca Island.

With its perfect climate, diverse attractions, and cultural richness, Costa Blanca stands out as one of the best regions to visit in Spain. Whether seeking relaxation, adventure or cultural immersion, this Mediterranean gem offers something for every visitor.

Costa Brava

Favourite Spanish coastline of Rachel @ Barcelona Uncovered

beautiful wild coastline on the Costa Brava

Clear, bright, and blue sparkling waters are the main attraction in Spain’s Costa Brava. This famous coast, located just a short ride away from Barcelona, is a haven when the city gets too hot and crowded. Locals flock here when they need a break from the tourists crowds.

There are endless villages to explore in Costa Brava – Cadaques, home to Salvador Dali’s house and Park Cap De Creus, is one of my favorites. Nearby you’ll find his museum in Figueres. There are also other fishing villages, like Blanes and Palamós.

These towns are filled with delicious seafood, incredible coastlines for hiking, and of course, plenty of beach days. Some of these villages date back to 575 BC, so it’s no surprise you can top off your beach days with loads of history and architectural wonders.

For anyone hoping to explore Costa Brava, I’d recommend renting a car – most of the villages are not accessible via public transportation – and spending a few days driving through and exploring each area.

Costa Brava is also a popular camping area for travelers that enjoy roughing it! You’ll find tons of campsites for backpackers and van-lifers up and down the coast.

Active travelers and history lovers will have the most fun in Costa Brava. You can spend days kayaking, hiking, diving, and getting lost in the old streets and museums in any of the villages. It’s sure to be a memorable and unique experience.

Best Spanish Islands

Spain has some 179 islands both within its territorial borders and its overseas possessions. The most popular Spanish islands are the Baeleric Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro).

Balaeric Islands

Palma, capital city of Mallorca

Favourite spot in Spain of Zoe from Together In Switzerland

The Royal Palace viewpoint situated in Palma Mallorca

For one of the best places to visit in Spain, choose the island of Mallorca with the specific city of Palma for your next destination getaway.

With many fights into Palma, it’s an easy city you can enjoy for a short visit. In a long weekend in Palma, there is lots to see and do.

Explore first by joining a free walking tour, which last usually 1.5 to 2 hours max. This is ideal for walking around the city centre and discovering the city to see what’s around. From this, you can then choose to visit inside the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and the Fundación Juan March Palma art museum.

Alternatively, stay outdoors and discover the beautiful art Nouveau Can Forteza Rey mansion, all the boutique stores down the cobblestone streets and also head to the Can Pere Antoni beach.

For enjoying Spanish cuisine, one of the best local places worth heading to is Bar España. Here you can enjoy many local tapas options with jugs of sangria. Make sure to visit on an empty stomach, you’ll want to try everything!

Canary Islands

Gran Canaria

Favourite Spanish island of Joanna @ Over Here

Morro de la Hierba Huerto trail, Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a fantastic destination for any traveler looking to experience a mix of beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and diverse activities. Located off the northwestern coast of Africa, Gran Canaria enjoys a mild, subtropical climate year-round, making it a great spot to visit anytime.

What makes Gran Canaria special is its incredible variety of landscapes in such a compact area. You can find everything from lush forests and rugged mountains to golden sand dunes and pristine beaches. The island’s diverse natural beauty has earned it the nickname “Miniature Continent.”

When you visit Gran Canaria, there are a few must-see spots. Las Palmas, the capital city, offers a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities. Be sure to explore the Vegueta district, with its cobblestone streets and charming buildings. The Maspalomas Dunes in the south are a unique natural wonder, perfect for a day of exploring or just relaxing by the sea. For hiking enthusiasts, Roque Nublo, a massive volcanic rock, provides stunning views after a rewarding climb.

Activities on the island are plentiful. Water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular, thanks to the clear Atlantic waters. Inland, you can go hiking, cycling, or even camel riding. The local cuisine, heavily influenced by Spanish and African flavors, is another highlight you won’t want to miss.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, Gran Canaria is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. It’s got a totally different vibe than mainland Spain and offers a unique mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. You won’t regret it!

Tenerife 

Favourite Canary island of Mayra @ Life on the Roam

The Mount Teide National Park in Tenerife is the most visited park in Spain

Thanks to the contrasting landscape of Tenerife you can relax on a beach, walk on a rocky desert, and hike in a cloud forest on the same day and on one island.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, an archipelago owned by Spain and located off the northwest coast of Africa.

The south side of the island is a popular beach destination with a big selection of hotels and resorts. It’s also a departing point for dolphin and whale watching tours that also offer snorkeling and swimming stops at secluded beaches.

Tenerife is also home to the most visited park in Spain: the Mount Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An out-of-this-world landscape defined by rock formations, ancient craters, and a still-active volcano that you can climb to reach Spain’s highest point.

If misty forests are your preference, head to the Anaga Rural Park for a totally different environment. Here, you can hike through a laurel forest surrounded by clouds while visiting small villages and stopping for spectacular mountain views.

Another UNESCO site in Tenerife you can visit is the historic town of San Cristobal La Laguna, founded at the end of the 15th century. This lovely town with cobblestone streets and Colonial-style architecture defined the model used to build new cities in the Americas.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, also has a colourful historic centre worth visiting, as well as museums, manicured gardens, and the famous Tenerife Auditorium designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.

Organise Your Visit to Spain

Now you know some of the best Spanish cities and towns, costas and islands to visit, you better start planning your trip.

Best Time to Visit Spain

Visiting Spain in the Spring months of April and May is probably the best time to visit Spain. This is when the country’s temperatures are beginning to rise and the weather is pleasant. It is a great time to explore Spain as many of the summer-hungry tourists haven’t arrived.

If visiting Spain in summer, like most of Europe in July and August you will run into huge crowds. But hey, this can make Spain more vibrant with the bars and cafes pumping. Though with the hot temperatures, often too hot to go outside, many businesses shut down for their own holidays. Summer could be a good time to visit the mountain areas of Spain for the cooler climes, however, be prepared to retreat inside during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Visiting Spain in Autumn is often a great time to visit. The hot summer weather is dissipating and you can enjoy some really nice weather before the cooler temperatures of winter arrive. If looking for some skiing, there might be some snow appearing in the high mountains. How cool would that be – swim in the coast one day and skiing in the mountains the next!

Visiting Spain in Winter can see mild temperatures, but this will depend on which part of Spain you choose to visit. You can get some nice winter sun along the coast and then ski in the mountains. The Pyrenees and Picos de Europa are popular!

How Long to Spend in Spain

How long have you got to spend in Spain? If you only have a couple of days to spend in Spain I would choose a spot and spend it there. If you have longer, I would suggest you hire a car or purchase a train or bus pass and travel around Spain visiting a few spots.

How to Get to Spain

You can get to Spain a number of ways. These include by air, by land and by water. Spain has two major airports, one in Madrid and the other in Barcelona. So if flying to Spain from another country you have a couple of options. There are also smaller airports like in Valencia, Malaga, Seville and Palma to name a few. Check out flights on Skyscanner. 

Spain has an extensive rail and road network, so you can easily rent a car and drive around Spain or buy a bus or train ticket to get around. Renfe is the national train company in Spain that operates most of the rail services in the country. Plus, there is plenty of local transport options to get you around. 

Accommodation in Spain

If wondering where you will stay in Spain, well, there are plenty of accommodation options. These range from budget hostels to all inclusive resorts, with everything in between including bed and breakfasts, serviced apartments and paradores. Paradores were created in the 1950s when Spain was considering tourism for the future. So, you will find spectacular hotels inside palaces, castles and old monasteries. Best to check out websites such as Booking.com to see what suits you and your budget.

Are You Ready to Visit Some of the Best Places in Spain?