With its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting historic cities, dazzling architecture and vibrant culture, Spain entices travellers with diverse experiences across its regions. As you plan your Spanish holiday, these ‘Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Spain’ showcase the very best this captivating country has to offer.
1. Barcelona
Barcelona is indeed a city full of wonders. The city has emerged as Spain’s cosmopolitan capital, tempting visitors with its Gothic Quarter, whimsical Gaudí buildings and world-class food and nightlife. Stroll Las Ramblas pedestrian street before getting lost in the winding alleys of Barri Gòtic. Savour Catalan tapas and sangria while admiring the weird and wonderful structures by architectural icon Antoni Gaudí.
Did you know that the famous Sagrada Familia has been under construction for over 130 years and is expected to be completed by 2026?
Barcelona is home to Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, often simply referred to as La Boqueria. This large public market is one of the city’s foremost tourist landmarks, known for its variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses and a variety of local specialities. It’s a food lover’s paradise and a feast for the senses. Visiting the market is free, but bring some money to try the delicious offerings!
For an offbeat experience, do visit the Hospital de Sant Pau. This Art Nouveau complex was a fully functioning hospital until 2009 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To truly enjoy Barcelona, we would recommend spending at least 4-5 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s famous landmarks, enjoy its vibrant food scene, and soak in the local culture.
2. Madrid
As the nation’s lively capital, Madrid charms with its opulent palaces, stately plazas, renowned art museums like the Prado and buzzing nightlife. Indulge in a movable feast hopping between tapas bars. Take in a flamenco performance before joining locals for late night revelry in this city that never sleeps.
Madrid is home to the oldest restaurant in the world, Restaurante Botín, which has been serving customers since 1725!
Did you know that El Retiro Park, one of the largest parks in Madrid, used to be royal property? It became a public park in the late 19th century. The park is home to several beautiful sculptures and monuments, a peaceful lake, and the stunning Crystal Palace. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
For an offbeat experience in 2023-2024, we recommend visiting El Rastro, a massive open-air flea market held every Sunday. Here, you can find everything from antiques to second-hand clothes, and it’s a great place to experience the local culture.
Madrid deserves at least 4-5 days to fully embrace its energy and spirit. This allows you to check off must-see sights, indulge in iconic cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s liveliness.
3. Granada
Granada is a city steeped in history and culture. A fascinating trivia about Granada is that it was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492, ending the 800-year-long period of Muslim rule in Spain, known as Al-Andalus.
The crown jewel of Granada is the magnificent Alhambra, an iconic Moorish palace and fortress complex nestled in the hills above the city. Did you know that Alhambra was originally built as a small fortress in AD 889?
It was then largely ignored until its ruins were renovated and rebuilt in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar. Now, it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions in Spain, with its intricate Islamic art and architecture.
Wander the breathtaking Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Gardens before watching the sunset over the adjacent Albayzín neighbourhood.
An offbeat experience to try in Granada is a visit to the Cuevas del Sacromonte. These are traditional cave dwellings in the Sacromonte neighbourhood, many of which have been converted into unique bars and flamenco venues. It’s a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the city’s Roma heritage.
To really enjoy Granada, we would recommend spending at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to explore the Alhambra, wander through the Albayzín and Sacromonte neighbourhoods, visit the Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel, and enjoy the city’s vibrant tapas scene.
4. Seville
Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a city rich in history and culture. It woos visitors with its flower-filled patios, stunning Moorish architecture and lively festivals. Hear the melancholy trills of Flamenco guitar before getting lost in the grand Seville Cathedral. The exotic smells of orange blossom and sizzling tapas beckon around every corner.
Seville is home to the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, the Catedral de Sevilla. This cathedral also houses the tomb of the famous explorer Christopher Columbus.
Did you know that the Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas de la Encarnación (Incarnation’s mushrooms), is the world’s largest wooden structure? It was completed in 2011 and has become a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the city from its walkways.
An offbeat experience that one must try in Seville is the Feria de Abril, a week-long celebration filled with flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and traditional Andalusian cuisine. This festival usually takes place two weeks after Easter.
To really enjoy Seville, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, such as the Real Alcázar, Plaza de España, and the vibrant Triana neighbourhood, as well as to soak in the local culture and cuisine.
5. Valencia
A treasure of history and culture, Valencia enchants visitors with its architectural marvels. The gleaming City of Arts and Sciences complex astounds with futuristic structures next to shimmering blue pools. Equally compelling is the historic Barrio del Carmen, where you can savour authentic paella by the coast. Cap off your explorations by wandering palm-lined promenades in the verdant Turia Gardens. Valencia, Spain’s third largest metropolis, guarantees delightful discoveries around every corner.
Valencia is the birthplace of the famous Spanish dish, paella. The traditional Valencian paella is made with rabbit, chicken, and beans, and it’s a must-try when you’re in the city.
Valencia is renowned for “Las Fallas”, a vibrant festival held in March where the city comes alive with fireworks, parades, and the burning of large wooden sculptures, known as “fallas”, created by local artists.
A romantic experience that couples must have in Valencia is a sunset boat ride at the Albufera Natural Park. This beautiful freshwater lagoon is just a short drive from the city.
To fully enjoy Valencia, we would recommend spending at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to explore the City of Arts and Sciences, the historic Barrio del Carmen, the Turia Gardens, and also have some time to relax on the city’s beautiful beaches.
6. San Sebastián
San Sebastián, or Donostia as it’s known in Basque, is indeed a gastronomic paradise. World-class cuisine shines in San Sebastián, home to more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else globally. After feasting at renowned pintxos bars, walk along shell-shaped La Concha Beach or immerse yourself in Basque culture.
San Sebastián hosts one of the world’s oldest film festivals, the San Sebastián International Film Festival, which has been held annually since 1953 typically in September.
The city is home to Monte Igueldo, an amusement park that dates back to 1912. What makes this place special is not just its vintage charm, but also the panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Biscay it offers from the top. It’s a delightful blend of history, fun, and natural beauty!
Do visit Chillida Leku, a unique open-air museum dedicated to the works of Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida. It’s located in Hernani, just a short drive from San Sebastián.
To truly enjoy San Sebastián, we would recommend spending at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s culinary scene, relax on its beautiful beaches, and delve into its rich Basque culture.
7. Bilbao
Bilbao showcases a contrast between traditional Basque countryside and contemporary architecture. The gleaming titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum stand out, but don’t miss sampling cider and pintxos in Bilbao’s atmospheric Casco Viejo (Old Town).
Do you know why the Guggenheim Museum is covered in titanium tiles? Well it’s because the architect, Frank Gehry, wanted to reflect Bilbao’s industrial past.
Another interesting tidbit is about the traditional Basque sport of “pelota”. It’s similar to squash and is often played in “frontones”, which are courts found throughout the city. You can catch a game at Frontón Bizkaia.
For an offbeat experience in 2023-2024, we recommend visiting the Mercado de la Ribera. It’s one of the largest covered markets in Europe and offers a wide range of local produce, as well as live music performances.
To truly enjoy Bilbao, we would suggest spending at least 3-4 days. This will allow you to explore the city’s architectural marvels, indulge in the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Basque culture.
8. Córdoba
Córdoba, a city steeped in history and culture, has many intriguing aspects. One fascinating trivia is that the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique blend of Islamic and Christian architecture. It was originally a mosque before being converted into a cathedral in the 13th century.
Step back in time exploring the mesmerising Mezquita, an architectural marvel with horseshoe arches galore. Wander the charming Jewish Quarter’s narrow streets before sampling regional wine and fare in this unsung Andalusian city.
Córdoba is known for “Feria de los Patios”, a festival held in May where residents of Córdoba open their private patios to the public. These patios are beautifully decorated with flowers and plants, and the festival is a competition for the most beautiful patio.
For an offbeat experience in 2023-2024, we recommend visiting the Palacio de Viana. This palace has 12 different patios, each with its own unique style and history. It’s a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling streets.
To truly enjoy Córdoba, we suggest spending at least 2-3 days. This will allow you to explore the city’s historical sites, wander through the charming Jewish Quarter, and indulge in the local Andalusian cuisine and wine.
9. Toledo
Toledo, perched atop a mountaintop in Spain, is a city that transports you back in time with its mediaeval walls, Gothic cathedral, and Moorish heritage. One fascinating aspect of Toledo is its moniker as the “City of Three Cultures”. This is due to the historical co-existence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures, which is evident in the city’s architecture and traditions.
Another interesting tidbit about Toledo is its historical significance during the reign of Charles I, Holy Roman Emperor. The city was the main venue for his court in Spain and flourished as a central hub for culture and the arts.
For an offbeat experience, a visit to El Valle is highly recommended. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the city and is a perfect spot for a picnic. It’s less crowded, allowing you to enjoy Toledo’s beauty in tranquillity.
To fully enjoy Toledo and its rich history, a stay of 2-3 days is recommended. This will allow you to explore the city’s main attractions such as Catedral Primada Toledo, Alcázar de Toledo, and Museo del Greco, as well as to discover its hidden gems.
Remember, these are just recommendations and the actual time needed may vary depending on your pace and interests.
10. Salamanca
Salamanca is home to the oldest university in Spain and the third oldest university in the world, Universidad de Salamanca. It was founded in 1134 and has been in continuous operation since then.
The city brims with youthful energy amidst its elegant sandstone architecture. The ornate Plaza Mayor captures Salamanca in all its Baroque beauty. Just steps away, dive into the city’s famed nightlife.
The Casa de las Conchas, a historical building in Salamanca, is decorated with more than 300 shells, which are the symbol of the Order of Santiago.
For a unique experience, visit “Huerto de Calixto y Melibea” – a beautiful garden that is said to be the setting of the famous Spanish play “La Celestina”. It’s a peaceful place with stunning views of the cathedrals.
To fully enjoy Salamanca and its rich history, a stay of 2-3 days is recommended. This will allow you to explore the city’s main attractions, such as Plaza Mayor, Catedral Vieja y Nueva de Salamanca, and Casa Lis, as well as to enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife.
From sunny coastlines to historical cities dripping in culture, Spain promises sensational experiences for every type of traveller. Discover your ideal Spanish escape following this list of the top places to add to your itinerary when planning a memorable visit.
In case you would like Unhotel Global to curate a trip for you based on your unique needs and preferences, do reach out to us. manish@unhotel.in
