Spain – stunning beaches, mountain ranges, vibrant culture and beautiful sights. It’s unbelievable how much this country has to offer. Take a look at our 30 tips for the most beautiful places to visit and see in Spain.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax by the ocean, these places are guaranteed to take your breath away. We’ve also included a map to help you build your itinerary for Spain.
Best Things to do in Spain: Top places to visit
There are so many great things to do in Spain. From the beautiful golden sand beaches of the Costa Brava or Costa del Sol to the lush mountain ranges scattered across the country. Spain is also home to many beautiful towns and villages. Each is different and each is completely unique and will amaze you with its magnificent architecture.
Let’s take a look at what you need to see and experience in Spain:
Madrid
With 3.3 million inhabitants, Madrid is Spain’s largest and capital city and the fifth largest city in Europe.
Other statistics show that Madrid is the second most visited city in Spain after Barcelona. It attracts tourists with its world-famous museums, beautiful architecture and great food.
Madrid is a vibrant and energetic city, where, like Barcelona, it’s alive until the morning.
Visit world-famous museums (Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, Museo Reina Sofía), explore the Royal Park full of attractions, go for tapas at La Latina, admire the splendour of the Royal Palace or the interior of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Almudena.
Read more tips on the best things to do in Madrid.
Toledo
Toledo is a beautiful city with a rich historical heritage. Its ancient walls, narrow winding streets and colourful buildings are definitely worth seeing.
Among Toledo’s most beautiful sites is the stunning Toledo Cathedral (Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo), which was built in the 15th century. Another top spot is the Alcázar de Toledo, an impressive fortress built by King Charles V. in the 16th century.
Toledo is also home to amazing museums and there are plenty of sights to see in the surrounding area. Cross the Puerta de Alcántara bridge over the Tajo River and enjoy the view of the old town, which is spread out on a hill.
Where to experience the best view of Toledo? The whole city is in the palm of your hand from the Mirador del Valle. In the evening, enjoy the view of the beautifully lit city.
El Escorial Royal Complex
The Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial is an iconic UNESCO-listed monastery complex located near Madrid.
It was built at the end of the 16th century. century by order of the Spanish King Philip II. and has since become a symbol of Spanish culture and history.
It consists of two parts: the monastery itself and the palace, which was intended as a retreat for King Philip II. and his successors.
During your visit you will see the extensive grounds with courtyards, cloisters, chapels, gardens and other monuments. The most popular sights on the grounds are the Royal Pantheon, where Philip II is buried alongside several other Spanish monarchs; the Basilica of San Lorenzo el Real, a Renaissance church; and the Royal Library, which contains an impressive collection of books and manuscripts.
Barcelona
Since the 1992 Olympic Games, Barcelona has become a beautiful cosmopolitan city that is 2,500 years old. New places and attractions open every year, making Barcelona the ideal city to return to for new experiences.
And even though the city struggles with excessive tourism, you’ll fall in love with it. Barcelona’s history oozes from every corner. Whether in the form of the alleyways of the Gothic Quarter or the buildings in which Gaudí’s handwriting has been inscribed. z 19th and 20th century (Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló and others).
Read more tips on the best things to do in Barcelona and create your itinerary for visiting Barcelona.
Girona
Girona is a beautiful city in the north-east of Spain. It is famous for its medieval architecture, which includes the Gothic cathedral of Girona and the Arab baths. One of the most picturesque parts of the city is the Jewish Quarter, or El Call, full of narrow cobbled streets lined with shops and restaurants.
Or visit the Parc de la Devesa, where you can relax in the countryside and enjoy views of the Onyar River. From the red metal Pont de les Peixateries Velles bridge, you’ll experience an iconic view of Girona’s colourful houses.
Montserrat
Montserrat is a mountain in Catalonia and a popular day trip from Barcelona. It is one of the most famous places in the country, famous for its jagged peaks that reach up to 4051 metres.
Montserrat is home to the Benedictine monastery of Santa María de Montserrat, which has been a place of pilgrimage since 1025.
Admire the beautiful countryside, visit the abbey and museum and enjoy the breathtaking views of Barcelona.
Valencia
Valencia is a city located in eastern Spain on the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most important cities in Spain, where you will find a variety of great attractions, incredible architecture and a rich history.
Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Valencia include La Seu Cathedral, Plaça de la Verge and the beautiful old stock exchange building, Llotja de la Seda.
Southeast of the city centre, you’ll see a perfect contrast to the historic buildings in the centre – the largest science park of its kind, with futuristic buildings and lots of greenery, and home to a huge aquarium and science museum.
We’ve put together a complete guide to visiting Valencia, including tips on the best things to do in Valencia.
Peniscola
Peniscola is a historic coastal town in the province of Castellon. It is located about 50 km from Valencia.
The dominant feature of the town is the imposing castle built by Pope Benedict XIII. in 1394 and the old city walls, which still stand today.
The old quarter of Peniscola comprises narrow cobbled streets lined with characteristic white houses, giving a unique atmosphere of a traditional fishing village.
Albarracín
Albarracín is a beautiful town located in the province of Teruel in the Spanish Aragon. Albarracín sits on top of a hill and is surrounded by steep mountains that make it look like something out of a fairy tale.
It is famous for its breathtaking views and incredible architecture. It is this combination that for several years brought it to the top of the list of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
Walk the whole old town, from one side to the other. It will only take you a few hours. From here, you can climb up to the fortress, which you will see high above the city on your arrival. It is here that the most iconic photographs of the old town set in the surrounding rocky mountains are taken.
Teruel Desert
In the Teruel Desert, you get the feeling that you have moved to the Grand Canyon region of the United States. It is located in the Aragon region between the village of Albarracín and the beautiful town of Teruel.
The Teruel Desert is a unique landscape of eroded mountains and canyons. It was formed by an ancient sea that dried up here millions of years ago, leaving behind spectacular rock formations along with fossils and other evidence of its passage.
There are many archaeological sites here, including cave paintings from the Paleolithic period, which have been well preserved in the dry climate.
Segovia
Segovia is a charming ancient town in the Spanish region of Castilla y León, just an hour northwest of Madrid. Segovia is famous for its old city walls, impressive Roman aqueduct and the Alcázar de Segovia Castle, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain.
Bilbao
Bilbao is located in northern Spain along the Nervión River. It’s a beautiful city known for its vibrant culture, art museums and the stunning Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum.
Explore the old town centre of Casco Viejo, with its narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Basque architecture. There are also several beautiful beaches with views and a harbour around the town.
Burgos
In the north of Spain, near Bilbao, lies Burgos. A city full of culture, history and art, with its entire historic centre a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And while there are many attractions, monasteries, churches and palaces, the most beautiful monument is the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Burgos, which dates back to 1221 and is a perfect example of Gothic architecture. Take a stroll through its surrounding streets, which are lined with pastel-coloured houses.
And where to enjoy the best views of Burgos? From the cathedral, follow the signs towards the castle, which will take you to the Mirador Del Castillo viewpoint. Or climb up to the castle, where the views are also worth it.
Asturian coast
Asturias is one of the best areas in Spain to visit thanks to its beautiful countryside, vibrant culture and wealth of activities.
The Asturian coastline stretches along the Bay of Biscay. It is known for its beautiful beaches and rugged coastline, as well as great surfing spots. The nearby mountains provide a panorama with fantastic views. According to Greenpeace, this is one of the most preserved coastlines in Spain.
The coast is lined with eighteen fishing villages and over two hundred beaches where you can swim, fish, sail or go windsurfing or kitesurfing. And when you get tired of the water fun, go hiking in the surrounding hills or discover the traditional architecture in the surrounding villages.
Los Picos de Europa National Park
Los Picos de Europa National Park is located in the northern part of Spain and is spread over three autonomous regions – Asturias, Cantabria and Castile and Leon. It is a spectacular landscape with steep peaks and deep valleys, full of lush greenery and wildlife.
One of the best reasons to visit Los Picos de Europa National Park is its incredible scenery. You won’t find a sight like that anywhere else. Whether you just enjoy the views from your car window or hike along one of the hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Salamanca
Salamanca is located in the western part of Spain, approximately 90 km west of Madrid.
One of Salamanca’s main attractions is its beautiful old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. The old town has a number of beautifully preserved churches dating back hundreds of years and picturesque cobbled streets lined with traditional shops and restaurants.
Don’t miss the Plaza Mayor – an iconic square from the 18th century. century, surrounded by Renaissance-style buildings, and a Gothic-Baroque cathedral that towers high above the city skyline.
Seville – the most beautiful places in Spain
Seville is the capital of Andalusia in southern Spain. It is a beautiful city full of history and culture – once home to Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan. Among Seville’s most beautiful sights are La Giralda Cathedral (the largest Gothic cathedral in the world) and the Reales Alcazares (an old 10th-century Moorish palace).
Don’t miss the Setas de Sevilla, an ultra-modern mushroom-shaped structure that forms a perfect contrast to the historic buildings in the area.
But Seville has much more to offer, including excellent cuisine. On warm days you can visit one of the parks and gardens, the most popular being the Maria Luisa Park, full of beautiful buildings, fountains and waterfalls.
Read more tips on the best things to do in Seville.
Granada
Another Spanish city you must visit is Granada. The Alhambra Palace is one of the most beautiful UNESCO-listed monuments in the world and will literally enchant you as you walk around the fortress, palaces and courtyards (wear comfortable shoes, you’ll walk a lot).
We were enchanted by the Albaicín district, where you can wander through a labyrinth of narrow stone streets lined with white houses festooned with colourful flowers. You can walk up to the Mirador de San Nicolás lookout point, which offers a perfect view of the Alhambra Fortress and the wooded hills.
Read more our tips on the best things to do in Granada.
Andalusia
Andalusia is the southernmost autonomous community in Spain and is known for its incredible beauty. You can explore Andalusia at any time of the year. You will always have something to do and discover.
Andalusia is home to breathtaking mountain ranges such as the Sierra Nevada in Granada, as well as beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast.
Visit one of the historic cities including Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Ronda, Cádiz or Antequera. Don’t miss the beautiful white villages scattered around the countryside. There are so many to choose from and one is more beautiful than the other. My picks are Frigiliana, Osuna, Mijas, Arcos de la Frontera and Montefrio.
For a relaxing waterside holiday, head to the seaside resorts of Malaga, Marbella or Mojacar, with its hilltop old town and long sandy beach.
Read more our tips on the best things to do in Andalusia.
Santiago de Compostela
You may have heard of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage site in connection with the Way of St James, which ends here at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Santiago de Compostela is located in the northwestern part of Spain and is one of the most visited cities in the country. The old core is a labyrinth of streets lined with churches and ornate buildings that are a joy to walk through.
Faro de Fisterra
Faro de Fisterra represents the symbolic place of the end of the world. Standing here, you get the feeling that there’s only the ocean and nothing else. According to legend, those who visit it are said to receive good fortune and wealth. Maybe that’s why it’s so popular and whole bus tours come here :).
The dominant feature of Faro de Fisterra is the historic lighthouse, which has been standing since its construction in the 18th. century an important beacon for sailors. The surroundings of the lighthouse consist of jagged cliffs, beaches and rocky coves. Near Faro de Fisterra you can visit the charming village of Fisterra.
Ronda – what to visit in Spain
Ronda is a wonderful old Spanish town located in Andalusia. It is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque and romantic cities in Spain. Ronda is literally wedged between beautiful nature, olive groves, citrus orchards and lush vineyards.
The best way to get to know Ronda is to wander the cobbled streets and admire the ancient monuments and magnificent views.
Among the most beautiful sights are the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), which spans a huge gorge between two cliffs, the Plaza de Toros (Bull Ring) – where bullfights are still held today, the Palacio Mondragon – a palace from the 18th century. century, which houses the museum, and La Mina, a system of ancient underground tunnels.
Córdoba
Córdoba, Spain is located in the southern part of the country, with Seville to the west and Granada to the east. It is a historic city full of Moorish architecture and other monuments from its colourful past. It was once one of Europe’s most important cities and cultural centres.
Visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (translated as Fortress of the Christian Kings), the Mezquita Mosque-Catedral de Córdoba and the Roman Bridge.
The heart of Córdoba is the large square of 17th century Plaza de la Corredera, which is lined with buildings in vibrant hues with arcades, restaurants and shops.
In our guide to renting and driving a car in Spain, we share practical tips and useful links that will come in handy before your car journey.
Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata is a nature reserve on the southeast coast of Spain in the province of Almería. It is an isolated area with dramatic landscapes and spectacular seascapes. Thanks to its unique biodiversity and natural beauty, the area has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The main attraction of Cabo de Gata is its wild and rugged beauty. The beaches here are some of the most pristine and beautiful in Europe, with clear waters full of marine life. You can explore more than 18 km of coastline including hidden coves, steep cliffs, volcanic rocks and turquoise lagoons.
Altamira Cave
Altamira Cave is located in Cantabria. It is world famous for its spectacular Paleolithic cave paintings, which date back to the older Stone Age period between 18,000 and 14,000 BC. The most famous painting is the “polychrome ceiling”, which depicts a herd of wild bison grazing.
The cave was rediscovered in 1879 by the amateur Spanish archaeologist Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola. Since then, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.
During the tour you will visit the museum, which is a faithful replica of the Altamira Cave. The original cave is inaccessible to the public.
Caminito Del Rey
Caminito Del Rey is an epic hiking route near Malaga in Andalusia. The Spanish poet and playwright Federico García Lorca made it famous as “El Caminito del Rey” (The Royal Route). The trail runs along the steep walls of the gorge called El Chorro and offers fantastic views of rocky gorges, deep canyons, wooded ravines and clear water.
The most impressive part of the trail is the 1 km long section that hangs directly over the El Chorro Gorge at a height of 100 metres above the river. The Caminito Del Rey was considered one of the most dangerous hiking trails in Europe because of its steep cliffs and steep rocks.
However, it has undergone extensive safety modifications in recent years and is now completely safe. And it is rightly one of the best things to visit in Spain.
Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol in Andalusia, translated as “Sunny Coast”, is located on the southern coast of mainland Spain in the province of Malaga. The area has some of the most stunning beaches in Spain and more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Thanks to this, the Costa del Sol has become one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations.
From white sandy beaches to picturesque fishing villages and seaside resorts to fantastic mountain views from Moorish castles, there is something for everyone.
The Costa del Sol is also home to a vibrant nightlife and great cuisine, with a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Andalusian and international dishes.
Zaragoza
Zaragoza is a city in the autonomous community of Aragon, northeastern Spain. It is known for its unique blend of Roman and Moorish architecture and vibrant cultural sites. Zaragoza is literally wedged between the beautiful nature of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Enter the old town through the stone gate of Puerta del Carmen and walk through the picturesque squares to the Elbro River, where La Seo Cathedral and the colourful domed Basílica del Pilar are a short walk away. Outside the city centre, don’t miss a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Moorish Aljafería Palace, now home to the Aragonese Parliament.
Pyrenees
The Pyrenees is one of the most stunning and diverse areas to visit in Spain. It is located in the north of the country along the border with France. In the Pyrenees, you’ll enjoy fantastic views and plenty of outdoor activities, from lush valleys to high peaks.
The Pyrenees are ideal for mountain biking, ski mountaineering, snowshoeing or simply exploring the mountains on foot.
Some of the best places to visit are the Ordesa National Park with its spectacular rock formations known as the “tosca”, the Posets-Maladeta Nature Reserve, which includes both lowland and high mountain areas, Monte Perdido with its many glacial lakes and the Barrancs de Boí, a stunning gorge full of waterfalls.
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is located in the Pyrenees and is one of the most amazing natural parks in Spain (and there are many). The park includes deep valleys, canyons and majestic mountains. A paradise for nature lovers.
It is home to wildlife including golden eagles, chamois, bears and wolves. There are also a variety of plant species, including the unique Pyrenean broom and the rare Alpine lily.
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is a beautiful coastline in the north-east of Spain. It stretches from Blanes to Portbou and is famous for its picturesque beaches, stunning cliff tops and crystal clear waters.
On the Costa Brava, you can practice water sports, snorkel, discover historical monuments, taste delicious cuisine or discover beautiful coves. In addition, the climate is mild all year round. All this makes the Costa Brava one of the most visited areas in Spain.
Mallorca – the most beautiful islands in Spain
Mallorca (or Majorca) is the largest of the Balearic Islands in Spain and is a popular holiday destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, diving or water sports. Or follow one of the hiking trails through the diverse landscape.
How about following in the footsteps of an earlier history that is influenced by Roman, Moorish and Christian influences? You can end the day in a traditional restaurant, where you will be treated to local cuisine. Or in a bar with a lively atmosphere.
Best Things to do in Spain – Map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map with tips on the best things to do in Spain. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in the Spain guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.
What to taste in Spain? What is the national food of Spain and what do Spaniards drink?
If you want to get a full taste of Spain, you should try the national dish, paella. This is a traditional rice dish made with chicken, rabbit and snails, seasoned with saffron and spices. The most popular version is paella with seafood.
Another essential element of Spanish cuisine that should not be missed are the tapas. Bars all over Spain serve an endless variety of tapas; from olives and cured meats to fried calamari or stuffed peppers.
Among Spanish drinks, beer (cerveza) leads the way. Spaniards also enjoy wine (vino), sangria (a mixture of wine, brandy and wine) and brandy.
How to get around Spain?
Trains and buses
Getting around Spain is relatively easy, as many destinations can be reached by an extensive network of trains, buses and ferries.
Spain’s Renfe train network is the main mode of long-distance transport in the country and connects most major cities. There are several different types of trains available, from regional trains to the high-speed AVE trains, which reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (making them some of the fastest trains in Europe). Tickets can be purchased online for most routes.
Another popular way to explore the country is by bus, with national bus companies such as Alsa and Avanza connecting even more small towns and villages than the railways. Local bus routes tend to be cheaper than trains, although the journey usually takes longer. You can buy tickets at the station or online.
On Omio.com you can find bus and train connections in one place (especially for longer distances).
For those wishing to explore Spain’s coastal islands, ferries are available from many cities on the mainland.
Car rental in Spain
Would you rather explore Spain on your own? Rent a car is one of the most popular ways to explore the most beautiful places in Spain and discover corners of the country you wouldn’t be able to reach by public transport.
My recommendation is to compare car rental offers and get the best service at the lowest price. Just beware that prices can vary between rental companies. In our experience, they offer the best prices and the widest range of Rentalcars.com .
Renting a car is easy. The basic rule of thumb is to book well in advance (especially if you want a car with an automatic transmission). Just fill in the details and show your ID and driving licence (from your home country for EU/EEA nationals) when you collect it. The price also includes insurance and free cancellation.
In our guide to renting and driving a car in Spain, we share practical tips and useful links that will come in handy before your car journey.
What are our tips for finding accommodation in Spain?
When travelling to Spain, it is important to consider what type of accommodation will best suit your needs. Here are some tips on how to find the perfect place to stay:
1. For a more authentic experience, choose accommodation in smaller towns away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas. On the other hand, if you want more urban amenities and attractions, look for places near larger cities such as Barcelona or Madrid.
2. Budget – When looking for hotels or apartments, think about your budget and determine where you will get the most for your money. Shopping online is a great way to compare prices so you can find an affordable option without having to sacrifice quality.
3. Location – When choosing a place to stay, consider its location. If you are looking for easy access to public transport, choose locations near metro and bus stops. In addition, if you plan to visit attractions in different parts of Spain, find accommodation in the centre that can serve as your home base.
4. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, book your hotel room well in advance (especially during the high season, which is long in Spain). Accommodation fills up quickly and the best hotels tend to be booked up early.
We book accommodation through Booking.com , where the offer of accommodation in Spain is the widest. You can filter hotels, guesthouses, hostels or campsites and enter other requirements (breakfast included, swimming pool, air conditioning, family-friendly accommodation, rating, etc.).
If you travel anywhere in the world at least twice a year, you’ll earn points towards the Genius programme, which can then earn you discounts on your next accommodation. You will see the Genius level next to your name (Booking will automatically offer you the discount).
These were our picks for the top places to visit in Spain. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!
More information about Spain
MADRID: Get inspired by our tips on the best things to do in Madrid.
BARCELONA: Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain, along with Madrid. Check out tips on the things to do in Barcelona (entrance fees, opening hours, photos, map) or plan your trip with the Barcelona in 3 Days itinerary.
VALENCIA: Valencia is another beautiful city in Spain. We’ve put together a complete guide to visiting Valencia, including tips on the best things to do in Valencia.
ANDALUSIA: Andalusia is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain – in our Andalusia guide, we’ve put together tips on the best places to see in Andalusia. The most popular seaside resort in Andalusia is Málaga.
GRANADA: Granada is a historical gem, home to the world-famous Alhambra Palace. Read more our tips on the best things to do in Granada.
SEVILLA: Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain – here’s a guide and tips on the best thigs to do in Seville.
MALLORCA: Mallorca is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain, with so many breathtaking places to visit in Mallorca.
