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17 Best Cities to Visit in Spain

With a wealth of historical sites, fantastic monuments, beautiful architecture and lovely, leafy parks, Spain’s cities are magical to explore. World-class restaurants and lively bars dot the streets, where locals and foreigners stay out until the early morning enjoying the pounding nightlife on offer. Often set in gorgeous locations, sun, sea and silky sands add yet another welcome dimension to all that there is to see and do.

With fantastic cultural attractions in the shape of museums and galleries, as well as a plethora of local events and festivals highlighting the country’s diverse cultural makeup, the best cities in Spain have everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

17. A Coruna

Lying upon the Galician coast, this port city is often overlooked by visitors even though it has a lot to offer. Sitting on an isthmus, the ocean lies to one side and the port to the other. As such, there are numerous attractive beaches to explore. Picturesque to behold, its cultural attractions perfectly complement its bustling commercial center, fine dining options and lively nightlife scene. Surrounding A Coruna are some pleasant walks and beaches for you to discover.

16. Pamplona

Renowned for the Running of the Bulls festival, when the city is packed to the brim, Pamplona has much more to offer than this debatable infamous event. Its beautiful medieval alleys give way to leafy parks and numerous archaeological sites, bordering the old city center that has an impressive cathedral and old fortifications.

With many great dining and drinking options, the capital of the semi-autonomous Kingdom of Navarra is interesting to visit, and many pilgrims stop by while walking the Camino de Santiago.

15. Salamanca

Simply spectacular to behold, there is a graceful air about Salamanca . Many of its fine and elegant buildings date back to Spain’s Golden Age. With two stunning cathedrals, numerous Renaissance palaces, churches, museums and galleries, it is a magical place to explore, as its warm sandstone tones follow you throughout your adventure.

A renowned seat of learning with a prestigious university, its huge student body makes it a lively city with endless entertainment options to enjoy.

14. Las Palmas

With an alluring mix of African, Chinese and Indian influences, among others, this lively port city has a sunny disposition and is a fun place to spend time. The oldest part of town has upmarket bars and boutiques, while some great restaurants are hidden away amidst the tangled streets.

A working city, certain parts of Las Palmas are a tad grimy, although they are not without their charm. The sweeping Playa de las Canteras is a picturesque spot to relax on the beach.

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Cadiz ’s ancient heart is almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic, and a wealth of riches once poured into its port from the Americas. Funded by this gold rush, decadent mansions lie next to decaying warehouses and churches, while little cafes and restaurants dot its winding streets. With delicious seafood, a welcoming atmosphere and sandy beaches, it’s a strangely alluring place.

12. San Sebastian

With an idyllic setting alongside beautiful beaches and lovely verdant hills, San Sebastián is an attractive place full of grand buildings and numerous cultural attractions. Formerly a favorite with the Spanish monarchy, its lavish architecture and sense of grandeur is befitting, while its delightful parks and plazas only add to the charm.

With a myriad of music, arts and cultural festivals taking part throughout the year, its rich Basque culture is on show for all to enjoy. In addition to this, the world-renowned dining options make San Sebastián a city to savor.

11. Alicante

With an international airport and numerous resorts along its coastline, Alicante welcomes scores of tourists to its shores every year. Its lovely Mediterranean waterfront and picturesque old quarter, as well as a castle, museums and more, prove that the alluring, sandy beaches are just one aspect of it.

A lively place with great eating options and legendary nightlife, Alicante’s bars and clubs make it an upbeat place to hang out for a few days.

10. Palma de Mallorca

The capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is a beautiful sight. It features a lovely old cathedral that towers over the waterfront and numerous historical sites dating back to the Moors, Romans and Talayotics.

While the Gothic cathedral is arguably a highlight, wandering its medieval streets lined with old townhouses and churches is delightful, and there are lots of galleries, cafes, bars and restaurants to check out. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at all that Palma de Mallorca has to offer.

9. Zaragoza

The beautiful Basilica del Pilar is the city’s main landmark and, imperiously rising above the waters of the Rio Ebro, it really does look spectacular. The fifth largest city in the country, Zaragoza has a wealth of fantastic architecture to explore, with some ancient Roman remains and an old castle just a fraction of what it has to offer.

With the famous painter, Goya, born nearby, there are many galleries showcasing fantastic art pieces. Add to this a great tapas and bar scene and you’ll find that Zaragoza is certainly worth visiting.

Once the largest city in Western Europe, Córdoba’s stunning Mezquita testifies to the city’s former prestige and grandeur and is the undoubted highlight to see. The incredible Moorish mosque has lavish architecture and beautiful arches.

It is located in the middle of the historic part of Córdoba, which is an exciting area to explore – just be warned that its immediate surroundings are often full of tourists. A charming place, there are lots of historic sites to get lost in and the architecture on show is divine.

With more than enough restaurants and bars to keep you occupied, Córdoba, with its winding alleys, is a pleasure to visit.

Located along the Costa del Sol, Malaga’s soulless high-rises hide a city that is rapidly reimagining itself. Numerous art galleries have sprung up in recent years – which seems appropriate since it is Picasso’s birthplace. Coupled with some delightful historic sites, such as an amphitheater dating back to Roman times and a Moorish fortress, Malaga has a thriving culinary scene, as well as some great nightlife for visitors to let their hair down.

The recently renovated port area is breathing fresh life into this already lively city. On top of this there are some nice beaches to lounge around on.

Lying alongside the banks of the Rio Nervion in northern Spain , Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim museum is probably what the city is best known for, although it certainly has much more to offer and is a bastion of Basque culture. Numerous architectural wonders line its lovely waterfront, highlighting a mix of traditional and contemporary styles, with some delightful cathedrals spread around Bilbao .

Leafy parks and atmospheric plazas are surrounded by world-class restaurants and atmospheric eateries, showing off the best of Basque cuisine. The vibrant local culture is fascinating to learn about in its brilliant museums, galleries and theatres. Lying in Basque Country, the city has some picturesque hills overlooking it, from which there are some stunning views of the buildings below.

With the enchanting Alhambra set amidst such gorgeous scenery, most visitors to Granada descend upon the city to explore the breathtaking palace fortress that once housed the Moorish rulers. Spectacular to behold and stroll around, its amazing gardens and lovely Islamic architecture is the undoubted highlight of what Granada has to offer.

The city center itself is wonderful to get lost in, as impressive churches and atmospheric bars are interspersed among fantastic Islamic architecture; the old Arab quarter is particularly beautiful due to its alluring alleys. Set on the lower slopes of the Sierra Nevada, Granada is a lively place that should not be missed.

4. Valencia

Lying alongside the Mediterranean, the third largest city in the country is often overlooked in favor of Barcelona and Madrid, although it has plenty of attractions to woo visitors. Great to live in, Valencia’s vibrant cultural scene, hopping nightlife and fine beaches mean that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With lovely, leafy parks snaking their way along the old riverbed that cuts through its center, the old quarter is great to explore, and there are lots of interesting museums to visit and many fine dining options available.

See also: Where to Stay in Valencia

With its cavernous Gothic cathedral lying at the heart of a picturesque historic center, Seville perfectly mixes the old with the new as life courses through its streets. With some great bars, restaurants and nightclubs, the city is especially fun to visit during the Feria de April and the Semana Santa festivals, which are absolutely huge.

The capital of Andalusia has some fascinating palaces, churches and streets to explore, with the medieval Jewish quarter the area that most tourists gravitate towards. With Moorish influences on show, Seville has a rich cultural heritage to delve into.

See also: Where to Stay in Seville

Lying at the heart of Spain, the capital is a dynamic place brimming with life and energy which is infectious to experience. Stunning to look upon, the architectural styles at the city’s heart are varied and grand, with palaces and mansions rubbing shoulders with the more contemporary buildings lining its avenues.

See also: Where to Stay in Madrid

Once funded by the Spanish royals, its incredible galleries and museums are home to the best of Picasso, Dali, Goya, and more, with sumptuous masterpieces everywhere you look. It’s gastronomic scene is one to savor, as creative and innovative food styles make the restaurants a culinary delight. If you’re looking for some fun well into the early hours, Madrid has a thriving and lively nightlife scene.

1. Barcelona

Bathed in sunshine, the capital city of Catalunya is mesmerizing to navigate, thanks to its incredible architecture that spans the ages. The old Gothic quarter is an intriguing mishmash of narrow alleys, huge cathedrals and peaceful plazas, while other neighborhoods are home to some of Gaudi’s inspired creations, such as La Sagrada Familia – the iconic landmark of the city.

Lying next to the sea, there are some great seafood restaurants to check out, as well as the city’s lovely beaches with a range of water activities to enjoy. Dripping with culture, fine cuisine, and with a lively buzz to it, wandering along streets such as the famous Ramblas makes Barcelona a delight to visit.

For outdoor lovers, the hills that loom over Barcelona make for some great hiking, and there are lots of nice parks scattered about. Football fans will want to go and watch Barcelona FC. In addition to this, its lively nightlife and boisterous bars definitely make Barcelona a fun and entertaining city to explore.

Map of cities in Spain

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41 Most beautiful cities to visit in Spain

Spain is known as a beautiful country. Smiley people, good weather and big cities like Madrid and Barcelona are known worldwide. Nevertheless, there are many other beautiful cities to visit in Spain.

In addition to these well-known destinations, Spain also offers charming smaller cities that are just as captivating.

I collected here 41 beautiful cities to visit in Spain. You will find nice beaches, hidden waterfalls, cities on slopes, dwell caves, preserved medieval towns… as well as cities with impressive views.

Wanna read more about it?

Relax, take a comfy seat, and keep scrolling to add to your list the prettiest cities to add to your bucket list.

I am sure you will be amazed by this list, and you will wish you had more time to travel around Spanish cities.

Check also the most beautiful cities to visit in France and the most beautiful cities to visit in Germany .

I did elaborate on a Road trip playlist , the perfect soundtrack to your tour.

Right combination, don’t you think?

Wait until you have some tapas and wines on your hand… It will be E-pic.

With no further ado, here you have.

• Seville (Sevilla)
• Galera, Andalucia
• Cudillero (Asturias)
• Mijas, Malaga
• Calatañazor
• Santillana del Mar
• Caminito del Rey
• Peratallada
• Deia, Mallorca
• Ubeda y Baeza
• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Map with all sights

The best way to get around Spain is by car or public transport. I recommend checking schedules for train and bus with Omio.com .

For car rental, have a look at Discover Car Hire . It is my go-to page to compare rates for renting a car. Also, keep in mind it is always more expensive to cross borders with a rental car. It is cheaper to stay within one country.

Best cities to visit in Spain

Spain is a treasure trove of beautiful cities just waiting for your adventurous spirit! Picture yourself wandering through the medieval enchantment of Toledo, tapping your feet to the lively rhythms of Seville’s flamenco, or being awe-inspired by the architectural wonderland of Barcelona.

Dive into the free tapas culture of Granada or soak up the Mediterranean vibes of Cadaques. With so much history, culture, and natural beauty to explore, Spain is like a colorful palette of cities just waiting for you to dip your brush into!

Get ready to travel to Spain!

This picturesque port city in Malaga has an unconventional location.

It is located on top of a cliff… overlooking a deep gorge.

Can you imagine the views from there?

2. Seville (Sevilla)

Sevilla is the capital of Andalucia, a Spanish city. There, you can enjoy the Spanish character at its fullest:

• cheap tapas
• funny people…

Don’t miss the royal palace, called Alcázar. It is an amazing, colorful place full of history.

It is always busy. Therefore, I recommend you to buy your tickets in advance.

3. Cadaques

This beautiful white town directly on the Mediterranean Sea is not far from Barcelona, just around 2 hours drive.

Nevertheless, reaching it with public transport takes you much more time.

The solution? Rent a car. Check Discover Car Hire .

You get different rental prices and you will be able to book easily online.

There are no hidden costs. If you plan to go for a budget car rental, pay attention to hidden fees.

Cadaqués has been an inspirational place for many artist, such as Salvador Dalí.

Wanna see why?

Home of the magnificent Alhambra Palace, Granada is a beautiful city full of character.

Plus, they have plenty of free tapas bar. Let me explain it:

You buy a drink. You get a Tapa for FREE.

In some bars, you can even choose the Tapa you want. A Tapas paradise.

5. Galera, Andalucia

White houses blending with the rocks.

This beautiful Andalusian city is just around an hour and a half from Granada.

Galera is full of houses carved out on the mountain.

Meaning… You can get your Hobbit Experience!

There are many cave dwellings around the town.

6. Albarracin

This beautiful medieval city is perched on a mountaintop, around 1100 meters above the sea.

His narrow, cobbled streets, together with the reddish color (due to the materials used) will make you feel at the medieval ages.

It is said that Albarracin is unspoiled by modernization.

Go and enjoy beautiful, starry nights.

This medieval gem in the middle of Catalonia is just around 2 hours away by public transport from Barcelona. It is perfect for a day trip from Barcelona.

Here you have also more day trips from Barcelona .

Take a photo of the fortified bridge, get in the medieval town, and sit in a stone house restaurant to enjoy the Catalan cuisine.

8. Cudillero (Asturias)

Cudilleros is a village on a slope directly on the Atlantic Coast. It is full of colorful houses.

If you look at it from the top, you will see its form. It looks like an amphitheater!

Perfect spot to shot thousand of Instagram photos.

The night lightening makes it even cuter.

We totally recommend staying overnight in Cudillero.

Cordoba is known for its white houses with beautiful courtyards (called patios).

During the month of May, many houses located in the old town compete for the best courtyard.

Nevertheless, due to the good weather, you can visit some patios all year long.

Check out the final dates for Patios de Cordoba here (unfortunately, only the Spanish version is working).

Psst… Don’t forget to visit the stunning Mosque-Cathedral. It is really impressive.

10. Alquezar

This off-the-beaten-track medieval city sits on an outcrop over deep canyons.

It is a great city if you want to experience adrenaline.

Between the activities:

• jumping to the river in Salto de Alquezar
• bathing on the river
• suspension walkways

Not an adrenaline junkie? No worries. you can just wander along, or have a drink on a terrace enjoying beautiful views.

11. Mijas, Malaga

White houses, narrow cobbled streets…and epic views.

There is no wonder to see that Mijas is a beloved city.

Wander along the cute streets, and make sure you go to the top of the city for the sunset.

The colors are stunning.

12. Calatañazor

With only 70 inhabitants, this medieval village is a door to the past.

Full of 18th-century old farmhouses with wood arcades, there are 3 words to describe Calatañazor:

Old, authentic, and medieval

Calatañazor is located in Castilla y León .

The best way to reach it is by car.

13. Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is known as the city of the 3 lies, as:

• It is not Holy – Santa
• It is not flat –  Llana
• or on the see – del Mar

Nevertheless, is still a cute village to visit.

Half-timbered houses, built out of warm, local stone and a beautiful. Plus a Romanesque-style church dated from the 1100s, with a complete set of a cloister.

You can also go to the beach, Playa de Santa Justa, and enjoy the fantastic scenery.

14. Frigiliana

This picturesque village on the Costa del Sol is truly one of a kind.

Whitewashed houses with red slate roofs provide a stunning contrast with the blue skies.

Frigiliana is situated at 300 meters above sea level.

Wander up the hillside through the cobbled streets and fill your camera with joy with each pastel door you will find.

Stop on the viewpoints and end your day on one of the many rooftop restaurants.

Enjoy authentic Spanish tapas overlooking the village and the valley below.

15. Granadilla

Don’t let the name fool you, Granadilla is not near Granada, but 600 km away, in Cáceres.

Granadilla is one of the most spectacular abandoned villages in Spain.

Surrounded by water from a curious swamp  (it has a male name: Gabriel y Galán) you will find this cute village.

To cross the wall, you will have to check the opening hours.

Yes, this abandoned village has a schedule to visit it.

16. Formentera

Home of one of the best beaches in the world, Ses Illetes Beach, Formentera will surprise you.

The smallest island on the Balearic islands will translate you to the Caribbean.

Clear, turquoise watercolors, white sands, and plenty of fishes underwater.

Time to snorkel around!

Formentera can only be reached by boat.

The best connection to get to Formentera is from Ibiza, known as the party island in Spain.

17. Caminito del Rey

OK, OK… this is not a village.

Yet worth it to visit it. Caminito del Rey is one of the most impressive walkways in Spain.

Located near Málaga, The king’s little pathway is a walkway, pinned along the steeps walls of a narrow gorge. Not suitable for people with a fear of Heights.

As it is a linear route, not circular. You will end at a totally different point you started.

That is why I do totally recommend to get an organized trip to Caminito del Rey .

Known as the “Imperial City” and “The City of the three cultures”, Toledo is a cultural heritage.

Located in Central Spain, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986.

Toledo will fulfill your expectations: alleyways, open squares and plenty of ancient buildings:

• The Cathedral
• Greco Museum

Go inside the walls and get lost in Toledo. It is part of the charm.

Don’t forget to get outside the walls!

There you can get a panoramic view of the ancient city.

19. Bocairent

Located between Valencia and Alicante, Bocairent will surprise you. This cute tiny village located on a mountain is beautiful all around.

Furthermore, just around 300m from the village, you will find a surprising Cave.

Covetes dels Moros are artificial caves on a mountain.

From the outside, you will see around 50 windows on the rock. Yes, you can go inside!

Nowadays, they still don’t know the exact purpose of these caves.

20. La Gomera

known as the Magical Island, La Gomera is a small island on the Canary Islands.

Measuring barely 20 km from North to south, this island is an ecological treasure:

• huge canyons
• small beaches set between cliffs
• black-sand beaches
• palm-covered valleys
• laurel rain forest
• lush vegetation

It is said, La Gomera is one of the best diving spots in Spain.

Join a diving course and discover why this island got declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

21. Barcelona

This list would not be completed without my beloved Barcelona, one of the best cities in Spain.

Known as a walking museum due to its impressive architecture. In the heart of the city, you can explore the historic Gothic Quarter with its medieval streets, hidden squares, and Gothic architecture that transport you back in time.

You will also find galleries, good restaurants, beaches, and many great experiences.  Don’t forget to visit the stunning Gothic Cathedral, Guggenheim Museum, and the iconic Sagrada Familia in the city.

We collected all the information about Barcelona, such as:

• Where to stay in Barcelona
• How to get around Barcelona
• Where to eat in Barcelona

As well as much other information.

Check all the Barcelona information here .

22. Teguise

With a beautiful Castle on the edge of the Spanish city, Teguise offers not only a beautiful city but also good weather all year around.

Teguise is located in Lanzarote, one of the volcanic Canary Islands.

Immaculate white low rise buildings surrounded by a volcanic landscape.

The beautiful town has also an old windmill.

Surreal beautiful!

23. Peratallada

A fairytale medieval town in Costa Brava.

The whole village is carved in stone from the moat which surrounds Peratallada.

In fact, its name means literally carved stone.

Its narrow streets look like a maze. The castle stands in the middle of the village.

Furthermore, the inhabitants love plants.

The plants hang from the balconies and climb the walls, turning it into a mystical place.

24. La Alberca

Stone houses with gorgeous geometrical wooden frameworks.

Balconies are full of beautiful and colorful plants.

Go through the little narrow stone streets and end your walk on the main square.

The main square is the heart of the village.

La Alberca is located around 70 km south of the famous Salamanca but has much more charm and fewer tourists.

25. Urederra

Probably one of northern Spain’s best-kept secrets.

Around an hour from Logroño, you will find Urederra National Park.

Urederra means literally Beautiful water. And you will see why.

The park is a series of connected natural pools and waterfalls in the woods.

Bright green trees contrast with glowing blue pools.

It will blow up your mind.

26. Siurana

A small village perched on a rock, overlooking at the Siurana Reservoir.

Popular among climbers due to the challenging walls, this city has remained secret for many others.

I am sure it will become popular among Instagrammers soon.

It’s stone cobbled streets are called land of princesses.

Psst… Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Romanesque church.

27. Calaceite

Located on the western side of a hill in Aragon, around 2 hours from Barcelona.

This village preserves many buildings from the 18th century: a parish church, monumental facades, and

ancient buildings.

Don’t forget to try their small pastries called “flaonets”. A village delicatessen.

28. Deia, Mallorca

Mallorca is a touristic island near Barcelona.

Nevertheless, it was still untouched places, like Deia.

This village on the North of the Island offers you hippy vibes and a wild beach.

29. Donostia

Home of one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, Playa de la Concha, and an International Film Festival, San Sebastian Film Festival , Donostia has become one of the most touristic places in Spain.

Complete your visit with a Tapas hopping feast.

In this area, the Basque Country, the local Tapas are called Pintxos.

Looking for unique places to visit in Spain? The setting could not be more spectacular, (or strategic).

Known for its famous gravity-challenging hanging houses, Cuenca made it to the UNESCO listing.

But don’t think that is all.

The famous hanging houses (Casas Colgadas) offers a deeper surprise.

Some of them are now home to modern galleries.

The iconic buildings mix tradition with contemporary art.

Cíes are three islands located in Galicia, North-west of Spain.

known for the locals as Galician Seychelles, Cíes is part of the Atlantic Islands National Park .

Take a ferry and see it yourself.

Whitewashed houses, emerald waves, sandy beaches, and nice caves.

If you do like snorkeling, Javea will be a paradise for you!

Enjoy the Mediterranean Sea and end your day with a meal on the beach.

The local restaurants on the beach are called “Chiringuito”.

33. Ubeda y Baeza

Located in the heart of Jaen, Ubeda y Baeza got also the UNESCO designation .

Façades of carved stones, whitewashed houses, and green olive grooves all around.

It could not get more Spanish than that.

34. Segovia

Known for its majestic Aqueduct, this beautiful city is only 30 minutes by speed train from Madrid.

Stroll through the old town and see how its streets still boast medieval structures.

Located near Barcelona, Girona is am unpretentious, livable city.

Medieval walls, cobbled lanes, and Catalan cuisine all around will steal your heart.

Not convinced?

What if I tell you Girona is a Game of Thrones set?

Yes, the Cathedral of Girona is home to the Great Sept in Season 6.

36. Combarro

Located in Rias Baixas, and known for its White wine production, Combarro is one of the most beautiful villages of Galicia (and Spain).

Traditional sailor houses, granaries, and roadside cross from the 18th Century.

Plus a fishermen harbor that still maintains a fleet of boats dedicated to inshore fishing.

37. Mogarraz

This beautiful village has not only the cute typical architecture of the area.

On the houses façades, there are paintings of inhabitants or people who used to lived there.

An original idea beloved by all visitors.

This city full of ex-pats is located just 50 km from Málaga.

Once a sleepy fishing village, it is not surprising that many people decide to stay longer:

Sun, food, caves, and culture plus stunning beaches to get a quality life.

Olite might be a small village, but it is so charming.

Home of the Royal Palace, a Castle that looks like Disneyland, it is one of the top places to visit in Navarra.

40. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Unpronounceable name, I know!

But write it down and do not miss it, because it is impressive.

This islet connected to the peninsula by a 2 arches bridge has been the scenery of the Dragonstone in Game of thrones.

Walk along the glory footbridge and feel like John Snow and Daenerys.

41. Menorca

I know, I know… Menorca s not a city, but an island.

But it has so many beautiful spots that I could not decide to share only one with you.

Menorca is just a 30 minutes flight from Barcelona. It can also be reached by boat.

To enjoy the island at its fullest, rent a car and hit the road!

Note: To get to the most lonely and stunning beaches, you will have to walk around 30 minutes.

I love to move around freely and with no rushes. Here are some travel tips:

I recommend renting a car. You can rent your car in Spain here .

Same as France, the motorways in Spain come usually with a road charge.

I love to use Via Michelin.com to plan my itinerary.

Via Michelin gives you an overview of charges, petrol consumption and the most important….distances.

A great time saver!

Good to know:

• If you are a beach lover: remain East and South. Water is warmer.
• If you hate warm weather, I recommend you to explore the North. It is beautiful and not crowded.
• For those who enjoy winter sports, the Sierra Nevada offers fantastic skiing opportunities and a variety of tourist attractions.

A good idea is to start in Barcelona and end in Madrid. This way, you can take advantage of the airport connections.

I share with you also a great flight searcher engine that I am devoted to, Skyscanner .

With Skyscanner, you can range a specific area, compare destinations… and find the sweetest deals. Here you have a detailed guide about how to score cheap flights in Spain .

Drop me an email if you need help with planning your itinerary.

Hotels in Spain

You can find all the hotels in Spain in one single site: Booking.com

It is easy to book: no prepayment, free cancellation policy till one day before, and great customer service in case you need it.

Booking covers the widest selection of accommodations in Europe:

• guesthouses

Activities in Spain

Get Your Guide is my favorite way to find:

• things to do
• and day tours

What is the best time to visit these cities for pleasant weather?

The best time to visit these cities for pleasant weather is typically during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the temperatures are mild, and there are fewer crowds.

Are these cities safe for tourists?

Generally, these cities are safe for tourists. Like any other destination, it's essential to take common-sense precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Which city is famous for its architectural wonders?

Barcelona is renowned for its architectural wonders, particularly the iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the unique buildings designed by architect Antoni Gaudí.

Where can I experience traditional Spanish culture and flamenco dancing?

Seville is known for its vibrant flamenco culture, and you can experience traditional Spanish culture in cities like Granada and Cordoba with their historic neighborhoods, festivals, and cuisine.

Which cities are known for their beautiful beaches?

Cities like Valencia, Barcelona, and San Sebastian offer beautiful beaches along their coastlines, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy the Mediterranean or Atlantic views.

Summary: The Best Places to Go in Spain

Convinced that Spain has many spots worth visiting?

In this list, you have 41 beautiful cities in different places.

To make it easy, you can check all the places on the map above.

If you have more time to travel, check also:

• the most beautiful cities to visit in France
• best Christmas markets in Europe
• the most beautiful cities to visit in Germany .

If you need help planning your trip, you can contact me here .

I will be more than glad to solve any doubt you might have.

Do you have any other favorite city which should be included on this list?

Comment below, I am always happy to check new spots.

Pin it for later:

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Oh wow this gives me a lot of places to explore! So far Toledo has been my favorite city in Spain 🙂

Wow amazing knowledge its help me a lot thank you.

That’s a great read. All of these places are really beautiful. I’d love to explore them more!

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15 Most Famous And Beautiful Cities In Spain To Visit

Spain, truly, is a country famous all over the world. Be it Its true extravaganza, mesmerizing beauty, plenty of vivid festivals, or the gorgeous fun-loving people – the leading beautiful cities in Spain make sure that there’s never a dull moment during a traveller’s time here.

They’re picturesque, like right out of a romantic’s dream . So before planning your next vacation in Spain , inspect the cool cities in Spain to plan an ideal itinerary.

Top 15 Most Beautiful Cities In Spain

Looking for good cities in Spain? From scenic landscapes to adventurous expeditions, a vacation in Spain offers you lifetime memories as well as a lifetime experience.

Let’s start from no 01 to no 15 exploring mysterious wonders as well as the most beautiful cities in Spain.

01: Madrid, Top City in Spain– If you’re In Madrid, you’re From Madrid.

Madrid is certainly among the foremost beautiful cities in Spain. Its nightlife is famous, take care lest you get captured by the jolly crowd on the streets, ready to bop away the night.

It’s also famous for its amazing museums, the Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza being the crème. In other words, the heat of Madrid is its lovely public. It is also one of the  top cities to visit in Spain .

If you want to further expand your journey, I suggest you rent a car from Spain to Portugal and visit one more beautiful country.

Places to Visit:  Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, Museo Nacional del Prado Perfect  Time To Visit:  September to November Things To Do:  You can choose boating to El Retiro Park, take an area sightseeing tour Places For Accommodation:  Plaza de Cibeles, Plaza de Espano How To Reach:  You’ll take direct flights to Madrid

Also Read : Best 7 Places To Visit In Italy In December

02: Barcelona, Popular City in Spain– Gaudi’s City Where The Party Never Ends

Home to a number of the highest tourist attractions in Spain, the colourful Catalan capital flaunts architectural wonders, like Antoni Gaudi’s Casa Batllo and the famed Sagrada Familia church.

Another key point it’s a bustling beach city with bright nightlife and exciting shopping options. One of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

Places to Visit:  La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Milà Perfect Time To Visit:  May to June Things To Do:  Choose a sightseeing tour Places For Accommodation:  El Palace, Eurostars Grand Marina How To Reach:  You can come by flight to Barcelona

03: Ronda – Stunning Views

Ronda is another beautiful city found in Malaga in Spain and is famous for its picturesque beauty. Situated on the highest of a cliff, the place is noted for offering stunning views of the nearest ambience.

If you’re a nature lover and love travelling the ruins of the previous era then you want to surely travel to Ronda on your next trip to Spain. Also, this is one of t the foremost popular cities in Spain.

Places to Visit: Puente Nuevo, Bullring of the Royal Cavalry, GaudalevinPerfect Time To Visit: April to September Things To Do: Local sightseeing Places For Accommodation: Parador De Rondo, Rondo Hotel Polo How To Reach:  You’ll take an area bus from any destination in Spain to succeed in here

04: Galera – Mesmerizing Ambiance0

Galera is another stunning place to be explored on your holiday in Spain. In particular, this place is popular for 3 things: cheap tapas, friendly as well as funny local people, and flamenco.

You’ll also take a cruise and luxuriate in the simplest coastal vacation here. It is the best place to see in Spain.

Places to Visit:  Castellon Alto, El Museo De Galera Perfect Time To Visit:  November to March Things To Do: Get a look at local history, go to the beach, and more Places For Accommodation:  Hotel Rural Galera, Casas Cueva El Mirador La Galera How To Reach:  You can take a transport conveyance to arrive in Galera, Spain

05. Cadaques – Beautiful White Town

Don’t skip to see the beautiful white town, situated on the bay of the Mediterranean, called Cadaques. This is also the foremost popular Spain city.

However, the place is very near to Barcelona and you can take local public convenience to reach here. The sweetness of Cadaques has inspired numerous artists including Salvador Dali.

Places to Visit:  Salvador Dalí House-Museum, Cap de Creus, Platja Gran Perfect Time To Visit:  June to August Things To Do : Take an area sightseeing tour Places For Accommodation:  Hotel Playa Sol, La Residencia, Hotel Rec De Palau How To Reach: You can take the train from the Plaza Catalunya, placed in the centre of Barcelona

Also Read : Top 10 Places To Visit In Greece 

06: Bilbao – Modern Architecture At Its Best

It is different from other Spanish cities, Bilbao is popular for its modern architecture. This old port city is also famous for the Guggenheim Museum, which is a colossal titanium construction that houses some spectacular modern art.

Don’t skip to check a plate of pintxos together with your drink while you’re in Bilbao. This is often among the most attractive  cities in Spain.

07: Valencia – A combination Of Modernity And History

Considered to be the birthplace of Paella, Valencia beautifully combines modernity with the old one. Especially, the structures that attract most of the people in the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

However, there are many places within the city dedicated to sports which are idyllically surrounded by trees and plants. The beach, of course, is another attraction. This is often one of the foremost best city to visit in Spain.

Places to Visit:  Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, L’Oceanogràfic, The Central Market Of Valencia Perfect Time To Visit:  March and June Things To Do:  You can go to the local attractions Places For Accommodation:  Ilunion Valencia, Buho House, The Westin Valencia How To Reach: You can take AVE high-speed trains which cover the distance between Madrid and Valencia in around 100 minutes

Also Read : 13 Best Souvenirs And Places Help You In What To Buy In Prague, Czech Republic?

08: Huesca – Musician’s Paradise

Huesca is a fascinating city within the Aragon region, very near to the Pyrenees. Away from the normal dose of old churches and castles, this city is additionally known for its musical activities. El 21 is is the country’s best concert venue.

While there, don’t neglect to try the Somontano wines and Pollo al children (a chicken and peppers dish). The Fiesta Mayor is additionally an interesting festival to see here. This is often one of the foremost interesting cities in Spain.

Places to Visit: Huesca Cathedral, Abbey of San Pedro el Viejo Perfect Time To Visit: May and September Things To Do: Take an area sightseeing tour, taste scrumptious delicacies from local outlets Places For Accommodation: Abba Huesca Hotel, Hotel Sancho Abarca How To Reach:  Take a bus from the town you’re staying to Huesca

09: Jerez De La Frontera – Home Of Flamenco

If you want to feel like a Spaniard? You can travel directly to Jerez. It’s a stunning 3000-year-old town with cobbled streets, many old castles as well as ruins, ancient churches, and also many wine cellars to enjoy its winemaking history.

And if you’re into horses, don’t miss the foremost entertaining annual 500-year-old Feria del Caballo (the Horse Fair). It also comes under the famous cities in Spain.

Places to Visit: Alcázar of Jerez de la Frontera, Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral Perfect Time To Visit: November to March Things To Do: You can  choose a sightseeing tour Places For Accommodation: Vivian’s Guest House, Backpackers Jerez How To Reach:  The Malaga International Airport is the Andalusia region’s largest airport and is well-connected to other cities of Spain

Also Read : 14 Unique Places To Visit In Switzerland

10. Logrono – Marry Rioja Wine With Tapas

This lovely Spanish city has been, historically, a pilgrimage layover within the journey to the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela and surely comes within the list of must-see cities in Spain.

It’s also famous for its delicious Spanish cuisine (sampled within the Tapas tasting streets) and therefore the famous Spanish Rioja Wine

Places to Visit:  Calle Laurel, Co-Cathedral of Logroño, Church of San Bartolomé Perfect Time To Visit:  December Things To Do:  Explore the history of this beautiful place by visiting the favoured attractions here Places For Accommodation:  Hotel FG Logroño, Albergue Albas, Pension Saint Mateo How To Reach: Board a train from Barcelona to succeed here

11: Santillana Del Mar – The Town Of Three Lies

In case you’re querying what the three lies are: It’s neither a Saint (Santo) nor flat (llana), and neither is it by the ocean (Mar) as indicated by its name. But it clearly is one of the most notable and best cities in Spain .

Places to Visit: Cave of Altamira, National Museum and research facility of Altamira, Santillana Zoo Perfect Time To Visit: July, August and September Things To Do: Visit the favoured attractions, take a jungle safari Places For Accommodation: Parador Del Santillana Del Mar, Pasoda De La Abadia How To Reach:  Hire a taxi or take a self-driven car

12: Burgos – Great Food, Great Monuments

On the edges of the rivers Arlanza and Duero, Burgos is a   historical pleasure among  the most famous  cities   in Spain. Moreover, the Cathedral of Burgos is  a  beautiful monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I t’s  also famous for its blood sausages,  which may  be sampled at any of the astonishing eateries  around the  town. During a Spain trip, it is a must-visit city in Spain.

Places to Visit:  Burgos Cathedral, Monasterio de las Huelgas, Arco de Santa María Best Time To Visit:  July and August Things To Do:  Take an area sightseeing tour Places For Accommodation:  Pension Pena, Pension Monjes De La Biblioteca How To Reach:  Burgos is well connected by bus to the most important Spanish cities

13. Malaga, Best City In Spain– The Homeland Of Picasso

The birthplace of  Picasso , this beach city is  a  beautiful place to relax. However, I t’s  a lively bohemian culture, the SOHO district being its hub.

In other words, Malaga also has its  proper share  of old forts and churches: Alcazaba as well as   Baroque Cathedral. Also, one of the prettiest city in Spain.

Places to Visit:  Alcazaba, Picasso Museum Málaga, Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga Perfect Time To Visit:  September to November Things To Do:  enjoys  water sports adventure, take  an area  sightseeing tour Places  For Accommodation:  Hotel Ibis, Malanga Beach and Center Backpackers, Barcelo Malaga How To Reach:  The Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport is amongst the airports that handle  the very best  volume of tourist flow in Spain. You can take a flight  to reach here.

Also Read : 20 Places To Visit In Germany

14: Pamplona City in Spain– Bull Running, Anyone?

Especially, Pamplona  is popular  mainly for the wild and adrenalin-rich San Fermin, the running with the bulls festival.

Not only but also, there are old famous churches, the Museum of Navarra showcasing beautiful Roman artefacts, and Renaissance paintings complemented by some attractive parks. Also, one of the top cities to visit in Spain.

15: Seville City in Spain– Orange Trees, Bull Fights  and the  Alcazar

Next on the list of the most wonderful cities in Spain is Seville – the capital of Andalusia. Moreover, It claims three UNESCO World Heritage Sites the Reales Alcázares Palace, Cathedral and also the general archive of West Indies.

Moreover, This lively city can attack your senses with a riot of colours and the aroma of orange flowers. this is often among the best cities in Spain.

Places to Visit: Royal Alcázar of Seville, Plaza de Espana, Catedral de Sevilla Perfect Time To Visit: March to May Things To Do: Take a sightseeing tour Places  For Accommodation: Hotel Alfonso, Adriano Hotel How To Reach:  You can hire a taxi to succeed here

Tell Us In the Comments As Per You Which Cities In Spain To Visit?

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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The 18 best places to visit in Spain

From the bars of Barcelona and beaches of Andalucia to small towns and wine regions, these are Spain’s essential destinations

Spain   is one of the most popular destinations on the planet. Every year, millions flock to   Barcelona ,   Madrid   and the rest for magnificent experiences – and grand, old, beautiful España delivers every time. Despite its popularity, Spain has plenty of places to get away from the crowds – rather than get too comfy on the beaches or in familiar metropolises, it’s well worth diving into its smaller cities, towns and underrated destinations .

By all means, make the most of those beaches and make fast friends in the cities. But save some energy for the national parks, the cultural richness and fascinating history of this enveloping country. You’ll find secret wineries, romantic castles, symbolic mountains and more, in a country that is as varied as it is fantastic.

So, wondering where to start? Hit up our selection of Spain’s very best places to visit, and it’ll open up your eyes to its full glory.

Discover Spain:

📍   The best things to do in Spain 🏖   The  best beaches in Spain 😋   The best restaurants in Spain 🛏   The best hotels in Spain

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Best places to visit in Spain

Elegant, magnificent, glorious Madrid ticks every box you could want of a capital city. From the Prado to the Debod Egyptian temple, the Spanish capital is absolutely teeming with elite museums, classic attractions, continent-leading restaurants, blissful green spaces and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned Madrid veteran or first-timer, this city has enough stuff to see and do to fill several lifetimes. 

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📍 The best things to do in Madrid 😋 The best restaurants in Madrid 🍹 The best bars in Madrid 🏊 The best swimming pools in Madrid

At least once in their lives, everyone – yes, everyone – should visit Barcelona. The capital of the northwest autonomous region of Catalonia, this city is a cultural behemoth with museums, restaurants and nightlife options galore. It ain’t one of the most popular destinations on the planet for nothing, y’know.

Discover Barcelona:

📍 The best things to do in Barcelona 🌳 The best secret Barcelona parks and gardens 🎨 The best museums in Barcelona 🛏 The best hotels in Barcelona

Despite seeing an uptick in international visitors in recent years, the western coastal city of Valencia remains a criminally underrated Spanish destination. As renowned for its arts and sciences as it is for its foodie history and gastronomic innovation, Valencia is as exciting as contemporary Spain gets. And it’s all within reach of some of the country’s finest beaches! Dreamy.

Discover Valencia:

📍 The best things to do in Valencia 🏄 ‍♀️ The best beaches in Valencia

Over the past few decades Bilbao has transformed from being the industrial powerhouse of the Basque region into a dazzling cultural hub. The swish and flashy Guggenheim might get the most attention, but this northern city’s old town, markets, Nirvión estuary and delicious pintxos also ensure it’s one of Spain’s most distinctive and exciting destinations.

Discover Bilbao:

📍 The best things to do in Bilbao

Sitting sun-scorched pretty much year-round, the southern city of Seville is a laidback, romantic sort of place. Boasting stately palaces, intimate courtyards, characterful bars and plenty of tasty (and cheap) tapas restaurants, Spain’s fourth-largest city enchants on several levels. Just remember your sunscreen.

Discover Seville:

📍 The best things to do in Seville 👀 Our ultimate guide to Seville’s essential sights

Yes, Ibiza’s known for its legendary parties – but there’s much more to this Mediterranean isle than its world-class clubs. Delightful beaches, lip-smackingly good seafood and over 100 rugged hiking trails mean that Ibiza is far, far from a one-trick pony.  

Discover Ibiza:

📍 The best things to do in Ibiza

Centred around the majestic Alhambra palace – a massive fortress which sits high up on a hill mightily overlooking the city – Granada sees medieval and modern Spain clash in a very gritty, down-to-earth sort of way. Medieval Moorish architecture and ancient cave dwellings rub shoulders with buzzy student communities and rowdy tapas bars – it’s a captivating mix.

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📍 The best things to do in Granada

Canary Islands

The Canaries have been a well-established holiday destination for decades – so there’s a chance you might have dismissed them as package holiday fodder. But you couldn’t be more wrong. From Gran Canaria ’s dazzling archaeological sites and Fuerteventura ’s aloe vera estates to Tenerife ’s stargazing and Lanzarote ’s marvels of modernist architecture, these islands are packed full of surprises.

Discover the Canary Islands:

🏜 The best things to do in Gran Canaria 🛏 The best hotels in Gran Canaria 🌱 The best things to do in Fuerteventura 🔭 The best things to do in Tenerife 😴 The best hotels in Tenerife 🎨 The best things to do in Lanzarote

Málaga is the capital and main hub on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, but it’s one of Spain’s top cultural destinations, too. Take a break from the city’s magnificent beaches and turquoise waters and you’ll find an art hub home to the likes of the Museo Picasso and the only Centre Pompidou outside of France.

Discover Málaga:

📍 The best things to do in Málaga

Make no mistake: Majorca (or ‘Mallorca’, as the locals call it) lives up to its rep when it comes to sun, sand and surf. This place has over 300 beaches and coves – but it’s also got much, much more. The largest Balearic island, Majorca also boasts scenic hikes, picturesque stone villages, characterful markets and one-of-a-kind museums, to name just a few of its charms.

Discover Majorca:

🏖 The best things to do in Majorca 🛏 The best hotels in Majora

Travellers’ usual mad dash to the resorts of Costa Blanca often means they overlook the city of Alicante – and that’s a crying shame! Alicante is alive with clifftop castles, fascinating museums, grand bazaars and maze-like neighbourhoods. It’s always, always worth a look.

Discover Alicante:

📍 The best things to do in Alicante

Sat in northern Catalonia on the confluence of four (yep, four) rivers, Girona is one of Spain’s most historically-rich cities, founded by the Romans well over a thousand years ago. The Girona of today is a well-preserved ancient city, from its gorgeous medieval walled quarter to its towering main cathedral.

Discover Girona:

📍 The best things to do in Girona 🥘 The best restaurants in Girona for Catalan cuisine 🎨 The best street art in Girona 🍹 The best bars in Girona 😎 The best clubs in Girona

Beach spots don’t come much more legendary than Benidorm (yes, UK readers, it’s a real place and not just a TV show), but this is a particularly attraction-packed seaside town. Aside from the iconic Playa de Poniente, you’ve got natural parks, craggy rock formations, elegant restaurants and spirited tapas bars aplenty. In other words, there’s more than enough in Benidorm to keep you busy when you’re off the beach.

Discover Benidorm:

🏖 The best things to do in Benidorm

Benalmádena

A short trip down the coast from Málaga, Benalmádena is a town primed for pleasure. Home to pristine beaches, well-equipped resorts and thrilling theme parks, here you’ll find the bustle of the Costa del Sol rub shoulders with mountainside tranquillity. Few places know how to kick back and relax quite like it.

Discover Benalmádena

🛏 The best hotels in Benalmádena

Santiago de Compostela

The final stop of the centuries-old Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Santiago de Compostela is as well-known for the baroque grandeur of its huge cathedral as it is for its rugged, wind-battered coastal landscape. Santiago is one of Spain’s less sunny spots, sure, but it’s also one of its most fascinating.  

Yes, wine . You knew we’d get here eventually. La Rioja is one of the world’s most famous wine-growing regions, known for its particularly fruity, aromatic vinos . And if you’re a big fan of wine? Well, you’d be silly not to pop into a few vineyards and wineries such as the Frank Gehry-designed Marqués de Riscal or the vast and labyrinthine López de Heredia.

Most remarkable about the Extremedura city of Cáceres isn’t just its mishmash of cultures – it’s that somehow pretty much all of them have been preserved so well. From the Romans and Moors to the Goths (no, not those goths) and the Renaissance, Cáceres is a wonderful and fascinating hodgepodge. Mixed in amongst all that are Michelin-starred restaurants, Fluxus art museums and tonnes of fab churches and squares.

Ever seen a building quite like that ? Thought not. Cuenca’s famous for its Hanging Houses ('Casas Colgadas'), which cling to the ravine cliffs of the Huécar river. And that isn’t the only attraction in Cuenca. In fact, the entire walled town is Unesco-protected and crammed full of spectacular churches, convents, palaces, castles and towers.

Discover more of Europe

The 10 best places to visit in Italy

This famous country is packed with iconic cities, gorgeous towns and villages, incredible beaches and all the rest.

The 11 best places to visit in Greece

Even looking beyond that whole ‘origin of Western culture’ thing, Greece is a wonder of iconic cities, stunning architecture, incredible food and more islands than you can count.

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BEST CITIES to visit in Spain

• TOP 10 CITIES IN SPAIN
• MORE SPANISH CITIES
• HOTEL SEARCH
• Which Spanish Cities You Can’t Miss

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Most have heard of Madrid and Barcelona , but the country is filled with a ton of cities that are worth visiting! Which cities will be your favorites depends on what you like, of course. Is eating the best food Spain has to offer important to you? Then don’t miss the Basque cities of San Sebastian & Bilbao . Do you want to explore immaculate Islamic architecture from the Moorish civilization? Then go to Granada & Cordoba . How does a sophisticated Mediterranean island capital sound? Then you won’t want to miss Palma de Mallorca and its gorgeous beaches. Below, we have put together our curated list of the best cities in Spain .

• Map of the Best Cities in Spain
• San Sebastian
• Palma de Mallorca

More Spanish Cities

• What is the most beautiful city in Spain?
• What city in Spain should I visit first?
• What are the most popular cities to visit in Spain?
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MAP: BEST CITIES IN SPAIN

The 10 best cities in spain.

While it may not be the biggest city in Spain, there is definitely a lot to do and see in Seville . In fact, we think it offers much more than Madrid or even Barcelona. Visit the jaw-dropping Alcazar castle which is leftover from the Muslim rule and one of the most important sites for Islamic architecture in Spain.

Or wander through the massive Plaza de España , Spain’s most beautiful square. In addition, there are several impressive palaces such as Casa de Pilatos & Palacio de las Dueñas. These palaces are scattered throughout the city and are a testimony to Seville’s golden age when the city was overflowing with riches brought from the new world.

Seville’s Cathedral is also an example of its past grandeur. The colossal church is the world’s largest Gothic building. And its bell tower is the minaret from the former mosque. Today, the Giralda tower , as it’s known locally, is an icon of Seville .

When you are done seeing the main sites, take a stroll through the charming old Jewish neighborhood of Santa Cruz . Stop for a drink on a sunny terrace while taking in the scent of orange blossoms and the sounds of flamenco music . Oh, and be sure to catch a real flamenco show in Seville ! The city is known as one of the birthplaces of this passionate art form.

Sevilla is without a doubt one of the best cities to visit in Spain!

Barcelona is the cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. The city is probably best known for being the muse of the modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. The organic shapes that he used in his buildings are known for being completely out-of-the-ordinary. His innovative designs can be seen throughout Barcelona – 7 of them are even UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Gaudí’s largest project began in 1882 and is still under construction. The Sagrada Familia church was his one-of-a-kind masterpiece that he dedicated his life to until his death in 1926. The fairytale-looking church has a combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles and is a must-see when visiting Barcelona.

Besides seeing all of the Gaudí sites, there is much more to do in Barcelona. La Rambla is the city’s most famous pedestrian street lined with large trees, small shops, cafés and flower stalls. From La Rambla, step into La Boqueria Market (Mercat de la Boqueria) and see all of the fresh produce and colorful fruits that Barcelona has to offer.

Barcelona also has an old Gothic quarter where you can feel as though you have stepped back in time. And once your feet are tired of exploring the city, you can make your way to relax on one of the city’s sandy beaches.

SAN SEBASTIAN

The romantic city of San Sebastian stretches along the Cantabrian coast of Northern Spain and is home to 3 sandy beaches. La Concha beach is the most famous and is known for being the most beautiful urban beach in all of Europe.

But the whole city of San Sebastian is beautiful. We like to describe it as a mini Paris on the water. And the Paris comparison doesn’t stop there either. The city is the mecca of Basque gastronomy. The Basque Country is known for having some of the best food in Spain, and San Sebastian is probably the best place to sample it.

Start by sampling pintxos, which are bite-sized appetizers similar to tapas. Most bars will have their counter completely covered with these delicious bites. Typically, you will eat one or two pintxos and have a drink and then move on to the next bar where the cycle continues.

But be careful not to fill up entirely with pintxos alone! San Sebastian is also known for its excellent restaurants, especially its high-end ones. The city boasts 14 Michelin stars that are spread among 6 restaurants.

Three of them have 3 stars (Arzak, Akelarre & Martín Berasategui). Mugaritz is ranked as the 31 st best restaurant in the world in the 2023 World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

With all that San Sebastian offers, we think that it’s one of the best cities in Spain .

The metropolis of Madrid is located in the very center of the country. Since 1606 it has served as Spain’s capital. To this day, the country continues to have a monarchy and Madrid is home to a magnificent royal palace. The 3,000 room Palacio Real is the largest royal palace in western Europe and houses an incredible art collection. The royal palace, gardens and kitchen can all be toured.

Madrid is also famous for its fine art museums. The “Golden Triangle of Art” is formed by 3 of the best art museums in Europe. The Prado Museum holds Renaissance & Baroque paintings from all of the big names. The Reina Sofía Museum has mainly modern Spanish art on display, including Pablo Picasso’s most famous Guernica painting. And lastly the Thyssen Museum fills in the historical gaps of the other two museums. If you are into art, these three museums are a powerhouse that shouldn’t be missed.

Madrid is Spain’s largest city and there is a lot to explore and discover. There’s El Retiro Park, a large elegant garden that belonged to the royal family until the 19 th century. There you can rent a paddleboat on the Grand Pond and admire the striking glasshouse known as the Palacio de Cristal. There’s also the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, two of the most beautiful squares in Madrid as well as the bustling Gran Vía, which is sometimes called the Spanish Broadway.

It can’t be argued that this authentic capital is one of the best cities in Spain.

The Alhambra Palace is why most people visit Granada – and rightfully so. It can easily be argued that the Alhambra is Spain’s top attraction. As one of the best examples of Moorish architecture in the world, it perfectly symbolizes Granada’s golden age that flourished from the 9 th to 15 th century.

The majestic Alhambra is actually an extensive complex of palaces, fortresses and gardens. Expect to spend a minimum of 3 hours wandering around and admiring all of its beauty.

Granada’s Moorish heritage can also be seen in the narrow winding streets of the Albaicin . This traditional neighborhood is located on a hillside and offers incredible views of the Alhambra, especially at sunset.

The gypsy neighborhood of Sacromonte is also worth a visit. For centuries the local community has carved their houses into the mountainside. Sacromonte is one of the birthplaces of flamenco music and the caves are the best place to see a live flamenco performance in Granada !

PALMA DE MALLORCA

Many great architectural gems are leftover from these time periods such as the seafront cathedral known as “la seu.” The levantine Gothic design is impressive, especially at night when it is lit up. The Almudaina Royal Palace is located next to the cathedral and is a fortress leftover from Moorish rule. Then there’s the Lonja de Palma, a former market and another Gothic masterpiece with striking spiraling columns.

The old town of Palma has a classy feel to it, with many stunning modernist and art nouveau buildings. There is no shortage of boutique design hotels and trendy restaurants to be found. In addition, the city even has its own beach and a seaside promenade that is great for people watching and nightlife.

Palma is a great city on a great island. Make sure to visit some of the picturesque villages nearby and Mallorca’s breathtaking beaches with crystal clear azure water. Mallorca is the Med at its best.

Cordoba is a small laid back city in the interior of the Andalusia region. But this small city contains one of the most mind-blowing buildings in the whole world. The Great Mosque of Cordoba , or Mezquita as it’s known locally, dates back to 784 AD. This massive Moorish construction covers an area roughly the size of 4 football fields and is held up by 856 “recycled” Roman columns. A series of double arches – made up of its iconic alternating red and white bricks – allow for unobstructed views through most of the mosque.

If the Mezquita was just this amazing Moorish building it would already be something special. But the most intriguing part about the mosque is that once the Christians reconquered Cordoba in 1236, they did not destroy the building because they found it to to be too beautiful. Instead, they consecrated the building turning it into a church. Then a few hundred years later, they erected a Gothic cathedral in the center of the mosque !

When you first set sight on this melange of architecture, you will probably rub your eyes in disbelief. The Mezquita is both beautiful and insane.

Besides the mosque-cathedral, the city also has a charming Jewish quarter and the Alcazar de Cordoba fortress with an immaculate garden. But the Mezquita alone makes Cordoba one of the best cities to visit in Spain.

Until the mid 16 th century, Toledo was the capital of the Spanish empire. For centuries, Moors, Jews and Christians lived (for the most part) harmoniously together. Toledo is known as the city of the 3 cultures. You will find architecture from each group such as the synagogue, cathedral, and alcazar fortress.

Toledo is partially surrounded by the Tagus River that flows around its 3 sides. The 4 th side is protected by a medieval wall. Inside the old town, you will find a maze of narrow streets to get lost in. Be sure to try Toledo’s signature treats – mazapán (marzipan) – which come from the city’s Moorish heritage.

In just 30 minutes by train or 1 hour by car from Madrid, Toledo makes a perfect day trip from the Spanish capital.

Bilbao is a city for art and architecture lovers. What was once a gray, smog-filled industrial city has been completely transformed in the past several decades. The transformation began when star architect Frank Gehry designed the iconic Guggenheim museum. This kick-started a regeneration of the city that has become known internationally as the “Bilbao effect.”

Several other renowned designers and architects, such as Philippe Starck and Sir Norman Foster, have also left their mark on the city. But besides discovering the new modern architecture that the city is enjoying, there are many other things to do in Bilbao. Its charming old town – known as the seven streets or “siete calles” – has been completely renovated and is now a hotspot for Basque gastronomy. It’s a great place to sample some pintxos and experience some of the best food Spain has to offer.

Located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast is the country’s 3 rd largest city, Valencia. The city is probably most known for its futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences). This vast complex is made up of a number of buildings designed by the famed Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava in 1998. There is an aquarium, planetarium, opera house, concert hall and several more buildings. Rent a bike or take a segway tour to make sure you see it all.

Valencia’s old town is also a great place to wander around and see some of its many sites, such as the Lonja de la Seda (silk exchange), which was built in 1482 during Valencia’s golden era.

This combination of modernity and tradition is what makes Valencia, in our opinion, one of the best cities in Spain.

And when you get hungry, there’s no better place to eat paella than in Valencia – the birthplace of the famous rice dish. Sure, you can find paella at tourist restaurants all over Spain. But chances are, it’s not made fresh (and sadly sometimes just microwaved). Authentic paella is cooked on a special iron pan over a wood fire. It’s traditionally prepared with chicken and/or rabbit, but today you will find seafood and even vegetarian paellas.

FAQ - Best Cities in Spain

What is the most beautiful city in spain.

With so many beautiful cities in Spain, this is a super tricky question to answer. It really comes down to personal taste.

Barcelona is often considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. This is mainly due to the art nouveau and modernist architecture (like buildings from Gaudí) that can be found throughout the city. If that is your cup of tea, then you will no doubt find the city to be stunning.

Madrid , on the other hand, is a popular destination but we think most would agree that it is not one of the most beautiful cities in Spain (it’s not ugly either). There are however, a handful of cities close to Madrid that are quite beautiful such as Toledo, Salamanca and Segovia.

In general, we think that Seville has one of the prettiest city centers in Spain. It also has a wide variety of monumental buildings and palaces, some dating back to the Moorish times. In Seville, you will also find a lot of Mudéjar architecture, an Islamic-influenced style developed after the Christian reconquest. Many wealthy patrons admired Moorish architecture and they fused it together with their western aesthetics. It is a style that is not only deeply beautiful but also unique to Spain.

Other Spanish cities that we find particularly beautiful are San Sebastian, Palma de Mallorca, Malaga and Caceres.

WHAT CITY IN SPAIN SHOULD I VISIT FIRST?

In our opinion, either Seville or Barcelona is a good bet for a first city to visit in Spain. Both cities are beautiful and offer a lot to do and see to keep anyone busy for several days and even longer.

Seville wins for its diverse historical attractions but Barcelona has better food (although you can still eat very well in Seville).

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR CITIES TO VISIT IN SPAIN?

By number of visitors, Barcelona is the most popular city to visit in Spain, followed by Madrid, Seville, Granada and lastly Valencia.

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16 Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit

Written By: Linda Smith

Updated On: February 14, 2024

Spain is a bright, vibrant and exciting place to visit. Steeped in culture and with a wealth of history to discover Spain is the perfect destination for a European vacation. I’ve compiled a list of the top cities in Spain that you must visit.

Table of Contents

Beautiful Cities in Spain

Whether you are looking to explore on a slow and steady full immersion excursion. Or whether you just have 10 days in Spain there are a whole host of places to explore. Diverse and dynamic, each Spanish city has its own unique pace of life, own traditions, and festivities.

The most popular Spain cities that spring to mind when planning a trip to Spain are of course the capital city of Madrid and secondly Barcelona.

Madrid and Barcelona are simply the tips of the iceberg when it comes to exploring Spain’s wondrous cityscapes and urban environments.

Lesser-known Spanish cities like Toledo and Cadaques are little off the beaten track for most travelers. But are certainly amazing places to visit in Spain.

For that reason, they are perfect places to explore to gain a genuine and authentic understanding of this European nation.

Here are 16 must-visit cities in Spain. How many will you visit?

Most Popular Spanish Cities

The Spanish capital city of Madrid is a great destination for a European vacation or a short weekend mini-break. Madrid is elegant and classy with ornate architecture and perfectly manicured gardens and parks to match.

For lovers of fine art, Madrid is a must. Home to The Prado which is filled with spectacular works that date back to the 12th Century it is easy to see why art fanatics from across the globe flock to Madrid to get their cultural fix.

With lavish water fountains and expansive greenery, the park is a great place to escape Madrid’s busy and bustling city center. The Buen Retiro Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With lavish water fountains and expansive greenery, the park is a great place to escape Madrid’s busy and bustling city centre.

• Madrid has amazing museums , book your skip-the-line-tickets for the museum of your choice.
• Get around Madrid with ease with the Madrid Hop on Hop off Bus Tour

2. Barcelona

Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain. Found in the Catalunya region of Spain, Barcelona offers the perfect mix of culture and history within a modern cosmopolitan metropolis.

Bright, colorful, and memorable Barcelona is beyond photogenic and provides picture-perfect city vistas wherever you turn! Home to the famous Barcelona FC, football fans flock to Barcelona’s Camp Nou to watch the Barça boys work their magic on the field.

Bars and clubs line the streets and music is played until the early hours. Head to Barcelona if you want a party, for sure! The nightlife in Barcelona is fantastic and don’t forget the works of Gaudi.

Read more about Barcelona:

• A Local’s Guide to What to do in Barcelona at Night
• Romantic Barcelona – 7 Seductive Places to Visit
• Gaudi in Barcelona – 10 Must-See Buildings

La Sagrada Familia is Barcelona’s most famous attraction. Book a fast track ticket to explore Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece. Choose between a 1 or 2 day ticket to see all the best sites in Barcelona on a Hop on Hop off bus tour.

Third-largest Spain city and the capital of the Andalusia region is Seville. It is widely regarded as the home of classic flamenco dancing and has become world-famous for it. If you want to learn this traditional dance or watch the professionals perform, head to the Triana neighbourhood and watch the story unfold!

Other key sights and attractions in Seville include the Alcázar Castle complex and Seville’s Gothic cathedral. The Alcázar Castle complex was constructed within the Moorish Almohad dynasty and has an interesting history.

Another must-visit place in Seville is the 18th-century bullring named the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza where for hundreds of years man has fought the beast in the ultimate test of strength and bravery.

• Read more about Seville: 15 Free Things to do in Seville, Spain

Alcazar is one of Seville’s most popular tourist attractions. Book your Skip the Line Guided Tour to explore the residence and learn about the great kings of Spain.

Home to just 350,000 people Bilbao is often missed when on a whistle-stop tour of Spain which is a shame as this small port city tucked away in Northern Spain is a great vacation location.

Bilbao is the capital of the Basque Country in Spain and incorporates some traditional Spanish architecture with towering skyscrapers in the downtown area too.

The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s most visited attraction, built in 1997 by Frank Gehry. The museum is home to contemporary works within its modern, undulating titanium building.

Experience authentic traditional flamenco in a venue that is as popular with locals as it is with visitors. Free cancellation and last minute bookings.

5. Valencia

Valencia is home to the Mediterranean side of Spain. This vibrant city is home to an abundance of culture and art. It has its own International airport that flies to other European destinations and domestic flights too.

Valencia is considered the City of Arts and Sciences and is home to some impressive and futuristic buildings like the oceanarium and planetarium and the interactive museum.

As it is located on the coast Valencia boasts some beautiful beaches. During the summer months, these coastal patches fill with tourists but with warm weather running long into the autumn months Valencia can be enjoyed year-round.

If you’re looking for a more sedate but still very authentic Spanish experience look no further than Granada. This laid back city boasts breathtaking views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Take a day trip from the city and ramble through the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains and breathe in some fresh clean air. Head back to the city for a late afternoon snooze before heading out on the town!

The BoogaClub is a great night time destination with wild parties and live music every night of the week! Get your dancing shoes on in Granada!

Book a guided tour of the Alhambra Complex, Generalife Gardens and Alcazaba. No visit to Granada is complete without seeing the Alhambra, the only remaining fortress complex from the city’s Islamic period.

7. Salamanca

The Old City of Salamanca was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1988. Found in northwestern Spain, Salamanca is part of the Castile and León region.

Home to many international students Salamanca has a great vibe that instantly makes you feel at ease. Many people chose to visit the Case de las Conchas and the Plaza Mayor.

The New Cathedral of Salamanca is a must-visit!

As we mentioned before, big and beautiful Barcelona and Madrid may take the limelight but smaller Spain cities like Toledo are well worth a visit too. This ancient city is located high on a hill looking over the plains of the Castilla-La Mancha in the heart of Spain itself.

Toledo is a walled city with a rich and varied past; home to monuments and statues for Arab, Jewish and Christian communities. Toledo has a lot to explore.

Must-visit places in Toledo include the Sol Gate as well as the Moorish Bisagra Gate. The Sol Gate can be found in the old quarter, close to the buzzing Plaza de Zocodover.

• Check out our visit – Toledo, Beautiful Spanish History Awaits
• Book a full day tour of Toledo from Madrid. Enjoy a free city tour, transfers and six full hours to explore the city on your own.

Nestled away on the Costa del Sol, Malaga is a well-known destination for European tourists. Home to big high-rise holiday resorts and hotels the city does have some nice clean beaches.

Many tourists often neglect Malaga’s wonderful architecture and rich heritage in favor of beach parties and water sports. Whatever your reason for going to Malaga be assured that you will be welcomed with a smile and a great sense of hospitality.

Like Valencia, Malaga has an international airport that flies regularly to many European destinations with a range of budget airlines.

10. Córdoba

Tucked away in southern Spain in the region of Andalusia, the same region as Seville, Córdoba was a key city during the Roman times and an important Islamic hub during the Middle Ages.

Córdoba is most famed for the impressive and ornate La Mezquita mosque that was built way back in 784 AD!

The La Mezquita has an interesting history. In 1236 it became a Catholic Church with Renaissance influences was built in the 17th-century.

The Best Spain Cities by Dave and Deb

We love visiting Girona in Costa Brava . If you are visiting Spain, make sure to add this to your itinerary. The old city is beautifully located on the Onyar River, surrounded by medieval walls.

Game of Thrones filmed in Girona and there are plenty of sights to see like the Jewish Quarter, Cathedral and cobblestone walking streets. Whether you choose to visit the big and bustling Spanish cities or the smaller history-filled cities in Spain, there is something for everyone.

• Game of Thrones used many locations to film in Girona. Take a guided GOT walking tour through the cobbled streets of the medieval and Jewish quarter of Girona

Costa Brava is one of the most beautiful regions in Spain and a great way to see it is on the water. If you want a taste of Costa Brava but don’t have time to visit Girona, book a kayak and snorkeling tour from Barcelona.

One of the first Spanish cities we ever visited was Cuenca. We really wanted to see the Colgadas with our own eyes. These precarious houses built on the side of a high ridge hanging over a deep gorge are a sight to see.

• Read more about Cuenca at: Cuenca and The Casas Colgadas

13. Alicante

During that same road trip through central Spain where we saw the Colgadas, we stopped at the beach city of Alicante.

Filled with walking streets and markets, delicious restaurants and nightlife, it was an amazing Spanish vacation. Castillo de Santa Bárbara is the most prominent site to see when visiting this energetic city.

14. Pamplona

Home to San Fermin Festival, Pamplona is famous for the running of the bulls but there are plenty of things to do besides taking part in the controversial festival.

There are the magnificent city walls date back to Roman times, the lovely walking streets and food scenes, it’s an incredible city park and the Plaza del Castillo makes it a worthwhile stop on your route into Basque country.

It is also a major stop on the Camino de Santiago. That pilgrimage is high on our list of must things to do!

15. San Sebastian

Located just a short drive from Pamplona is the lovely coastal city of San Sebastian. After the San Fermin Festival, we took a break at San Sebastián to eat a lot of Pinchos.

Located on the sea, this city in Basque Country is known for its food. It also has an incredible beach. See our full Spain Travel Guide

16. Tossa De Mar

Tossa De Mar is a beautiful city in Costa Brava with a medieval fort overlooking the sea and city. There is a medieval village that is beautiful to walk through the cobblestone streets and there is a fantastic beach.

Getting Around Spain

Travel in Spain is very easy. All the major cities and towns are connected by rail and even many of the smaller villages are too. You can travel cheaply and easily throughout Spain using train travel alone.

What’s more, it is possible to book your train tickets online before you even leave home.

Car rentals in Spain

• Travelers who wish to explore as much of Spain as they possibly can may want to hire a car for the duration of their stay.
• Provided you are over the age of 21 and have a driving license then hiring a car is hassle-free and can work out cheaper than train travel in the long run.
• If you chose to hire a car, it can easily be arranged for the hiring company to bring your car to the airport to meet you so you can hit the ground running…or rather, driving!
• Remember to check whether your car needs diesel or petrol or else you’ll have a nightmare on your hands!
• Click here to search all the car rental agencies and get the best price for your Spain vacation.

Get the Best Price on Car Rentals in Spain – Click Here to Search all the Car Rental Agencies and get the best price for your Spain Vacation.

Bus Travel in Spain

• Bus travel is also a great option in Spain.
• For example, a bus from Madrid to Granada takes just four short hours and runs two or three times daily, more frequently in the high season.
• Buses are cheap and cheerful and a nice way to see the Spanish countryside sprawl away from outside your window. Rest assured, buses in Spain do take breaks for food and toilet stops. No need to strategically dehydrate for your long journey here!
• Spain is an vivid and welcoming place filled with passionate and caring people who are only too happy to accommodate tourists and travellers.
• Learning a little of the language can get you a long way and even if you make mistakes the Spanish always appreciate the effort.

Going to Spain? Read more about these Spanish Cities

• Toledo, Beautiful Spanish History Awaits
• Cuenca and the Casas Colgadas
• 15 Free Things to do in Seville, Spain
• Andalusia Travel – 5 Reasons to Visit the South of Spain
• Camping in Spain: Everything You Need to Know
• Via Ferrata, Spain – Take your adventure to New Heights

Read More about the City of Barcelona

• 26 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• Gaudi in Barcelona – 13 Must-See Architectural Wonders

Barcelona is a great place to start in Spain. Madrid is the most popular, but in Barcelona, you can explore the works of Gaudi, it has great nightlife, one of the best urban beaches in Europe and fantastic cuisine.

Beauty is subjective, but we believe that Barcelona is the most beautiful city. With the works of Gaudi but many think Granada is the most beautiful.

You can visit Spain any time of year but crowds peak during the summer months, so we suggest shoulder season in Spring or Autumn.

The top five most visit cities in Spain are Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, and Seville.

If you enjoyed our list of the best cities and places to visit in Spain, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

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About Linda Smith

Linda Smith is a travel writer and the founder/main editor of EasyTravelForYou Her passion for travel inspires her to seek new places, new adventures and sharing her travel experience to everyone. Follow Linda at: EasyTravel4U / Facebook / Twitter

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30 thoughts on “16 Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit”

Great article and having visited most of these cities I agree with your choice. Just one error Valencia is third largest city in Spain whilst Seville is fourth.

Nice article. Teruel, Tarragona, Segovia and Avila are also worth a visit if you look for more inspiring places. For the bigger cities, Seville keeps me surprising.

So cool list !!! Guauu!!!! The photos of Tossa De Mar and Alicante are so impresive ! Good jobs and article. 🙂

Spain is a really beautiful country and especially the region of Andalousia and Extremadura is the best place to travel: beautiful cities, great landscapes and delicious and economic cuisine

Great article. My wife and I have debated about visiting Spain from California. Are you aware of any tour companies that could take us to many of these cities? I am too old to drive! Thank you for your help. Steve

We enjoy your passion! Seville is very special and as you say. Many thanks for Seville about her like this.

Seville is very special ! I´m from Paris for 2 days holidays and now live in Seville since 20 years !!! I come back only few times in my city ! I meet my wife in Plaza de España and now I work in Tourism. Seville change my life ! Great article. Thanks a lot. And beautiful Photos ( i love them).

seville was so pretty like all the way love it soooooo much wanna go again

The truly inspiring post gives valuable insights on the entire Spanish landscape. Right from Bilbao till down Valencia, every city is unique and boasts diverse culture. Especially, I thank the author for an informative blog.

HI thanks for sharing the off beat places to visit in spain rather than the regular tourist destinations. Off beat tourist locations are the best way to experience the true culture of the country.

Thank you for this article. We are going to Spain in June. We will be visiting 8 of the places in this article( except Bilboa & Salamanca) . We are starting from Madrid and a train ride to Seville. From Seville , we will work our way to Malaga and the other places and move up north to Valencia and finally Barcelona. We are a bit conflicted and not sure if we should rent a car from Seville to visit the other places or just continue riding the train. Would appreciate your recommendation. Thanks

Hi John, It depends on how comfortable you are driving. The train system is great. But we do like a road trip. We find there is a lot of freedom. If you want to drive, rentals are quite reasonable, and it does give you the chance to see more off the beaten path places.

Great Article, We ar planning to visit Spain this year. Thanks for the tips and we will try to visit these places.

I like all the places! My husband and I are planning to visit in Spain from Morocco next month December 24 to 27 , 2018 any place and hotel you can recommend for us , I really appreciated if you can give us an advice. Thanks once again !

Been to Bilbao just for a day and loved it! nice read it was. Thanks

My favourite was Seville. Thank you for your post. Eduardo

“Spain has the city for every Occasion” this must be the headline for the blog, it is my democratic opinion. The article throws light on unexplored areas of Spanish regions. Its wonderful cities are incomparable, from Gaudi’s imaginative style architecture to Seville’s Flamenco dancing, Spain is a classic spot for holidaying. I thank Linda Smith for sharing such informative article and truly its worth sharing across diverse media for spreading out the unsung regions of Spain. The brief on transport system really helps every individual who plans a Spain Holiday.

This is nice. My wife and I are excited for the vacation we’ve booked in Europe to Spain and definitely we will go to the Canary. Lanzarote is one of our eyeing place for our 1st stop 🙂 There so many thing we want to do from a page we’ve read canaryislandsinfo.co.uk/lanzarote/places/.I wanted to know if you have experience traveling to this wonderful Island. Is there anything you can recommend aside from your past travel in in Spain?

Sounds like a fun loving and thrill-seeking. It’s no wonder that Spain is one of the popular destinations. Passionate and sophisticated places to wander. Wanna visit Sagrada Familia and Valencia for its art and architecture. And Malaga for its lovely beaches.

Nice review ! Hope someday i will travel those places !

Fantastic post! Spain is on our “must visit” list! We really hope to get there soon!

Cycling from Valencia to Malaga, get the best of both cities and enjoy some landscapes in between, this is the plan! =)

We loved Barcelona, Montserrat, Costa Brava … everything we saw in Catalonia and other parts of Spain. Beautiful!

We can’t get enough of Spain. The food, the people, the diverse cities, there is nothing to complain about. Perfect list for a traveller who can’t quite decided which cities to visit or to rent a car or not.

I’ve only been to about half of these so far, but really keen to check out the smaller cities like Salamanca. Next Spain trip for sure!

The time of year really helps with deciding which cities to go to at a time. I can’t take the heat so sometimes i stay away from the heat. In spain, I pay pretty close attention to the weather. Loved this article!

TheHolidayLens

I stayed in Spain for few month and have changed to travel most of the city here on the list, It is all amazing!:)

I loved Bilbao and have got a trip to Barcelona this week – I’m really excited now I’ve read this post 🙂

Jet x http://www.jettravels.co.uk

I love that Toledo made it onto this list! I visited the city years ago, and even though I was only there for a day, I absolutely loved it. It really felt like you were travelling back in time!

We lived in Spain for a year and had the opportunity to visit every city on this list! We could not agree more on how amazing each one is.

The 8 best places to visit in Spain in 2024

Feb 13, 2024 • 7 min read

From the Catalonian capital of Barcelona to the fascinating mix of cultures in Toledo, here are the best places to visit in Spain © Westend61 / Getty Images

Coming second only to its northern neighbor as the most visited country in the world, Spain is packed with incredible places to visit and experiences to enjoy.

Sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, World Heritage cities, incredible cuisine, and multi-faceted culture – the only downside is not knowing where to begin with your must-see list. I've done all the hard work for you and gathered together my eight favorite places to visit in sensational Spain in 2024.

Best city for visiting world-class art museums 

The Spanish capital  is a lively city blessed with year-round clear blue skies draped over its vibrant barrios (neighborhoods) , architectural landmarks and famed art museums. There's even an ancient Egyptian temple, the Templo de Debod , right in Madrid's city center. 

Art aficionados could spend days exploring Madrid's "Golden Triangle of Art," composed of three globally renowned museums , the Museo del Prado , Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza , which are home to some of the world's most valuable art collections. They are situated along Madrid's Paseo del Prado (Art Walk) , which has recently been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Planning tip:  Madrid has a vibrant street culture that loves its wine-soaked tapas crawls. Cava Baja in the historic La Latina neighborhood is lined with quaint little bars and taverns, making it one of the best streets in the city to join locals hopping from one bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, charcuterie and cheeses.

2. Barcelona

Best for modernist architecture

Straddling the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees mountains, the Catalonian capital is a visually stunning metropolis with avant-garde architecture, city beaches and a Gothic Quarter that stretches back over 2000 years.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without spending time at the Sagrada Família , the obra maestra of the illustrious Catalan architect and proponent of Modernism, Antoní Gaudí. His influence on the city is everywhere, and it's worth taking time to visit his other architectural jewels, the Casa Batlló , La Pedrera and Park Güell.

Another place where Gaudí has left his legacy is at the Plaça Reial , at the heart of the city's two millennia-old Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) . The public square is lit up by decorative street lamps that were Gaudí's first commissioned public work. This ancient neighborhood is also home to the majestic La Catedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, which was built over two centuries from the 13th to the 15th centuries. At the border of the quarter is Mercat de la Boqueria , one of the oldest markets in Europe.

Planning tip: Have a lunchtime visit to Mercat de la Boqueria – it's when the unassuming places to eat, run by charismatic owners, start to open up.

3. San Sebastián

Best city for gourmet experiences

This alluring Basque coastal city in northern Spain is stunning, characterized by its belle epoque architecture, white-sand beaches that stretch for kilometers, and blue waters of the Bay of Biscay. On a clear day, stroll along the boulevard of La Concha beach to get a feel for the locals' sea-loving culture.

San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, has evolved from a traditional whaling town into a world-famous gastronomic capital. It has the greatest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in Europe, and gastronomic delights await you around every corner.

Planning tip:  You don't need to have a Michelin-star budget to be able to enjoy San Sebastián's food culture. Head over to the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter), particularly along 31 de Agosto Street. The streets here are lined with restaurants and bars offering dizzying rows of assorted pintxos  – literally translating as "spike." The name describes how these appetizers are presented with skewers or toothpicks for easy picking.

4. Balearic islands

Best for beaches and sapphire-colored waters

Anyone who's been to these outlying islands east of the Iberian Peninsula would recognize the "Balearic blues" — the distinct shades of blue that characterize these Mediterranean waters. This archipelago's four largest islands –  Ibiza , Mallorca , Menorca and Formentera – are blessed with countless beaches and calas  (coves) embraced by white sand coastlines and rugged cliffs.

Among these islands, Ibiza is the most famous one, mainly for its reputation as a 24/7 party destination. Yet Ibiza's clubbing culture is just a tiny slice of this spectacular island on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is fringed with sapphire-colored waters, filled with historic fortified towns, and has a wealth of hidden inlets and charming beachside restaurants and cafes. You can visit the ruins of the ancient Phoenician civilization at Sa Caleta and the Puig des Molins necropolis to get a glimpse of the ancient colonies that inhabited this island long before the clubbers discovered it. 

Best place for cultural sightseeing

The delights of  Seville are in the details – this charming Andalusian capital may give you the sensation of déjà vu, perhaps because its year-round sunny days, resplendent gardens and intricately carved palaces have made it a favored filming location for big productions from Star Wars to Game of Thrones . Its allure lies in its idiosyncratic mix – horse-drawn carriages, flamenco tablaos  (stages), colossal Gothic structures and Islamic stylistic details all blend to create this multi-layered dreamscape of a city.

Seville's rich cultural tapestry is the legacy of its long and varied history, once a Moorish capital, later the seat of the Castilian aristocracy, and then as the European gateway to the Americas after Columbus' journey in 1492. The unique juxtaposition of cultures could not be more apparent when visiting the Seville Cathedral , the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the final resting place of Columbus, and then just a few meters away, the Real Alcázar showcasing the splendor of Mudéjar architecture with Islamic, Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Planning tip:  Want to experience a huge celebration? Time your visit for one of the city's great annual festivals , notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril.

Best for layers of history

This 2000-year-old walled city occupies a significant place in Spain's history. It was the former capital of the Visigothic Kingdom, a fortress of the Emirate of Cordoba, a Roman municipium, the seat of power of King Charles V, and the former capital of Spain until 1560 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Jewish, Christian and Islamic influences, Toledo has earned the nickname "The City of Three Cultures." Walk along its narrow cobblestone streets to glimpse the vestiges of this unique cultural melange — ancient Roman structures, Moorish architectural styles, the Catedral de Toledo , the El Tránsito Synagogue and the Cristo de la Luz Mosque .

Planning tip:  Head over to the Mirador del Valle for spectacular panoramic views and a picture-perfect photo of this historic city by the Tagus River.

Best city for Western Islamic architecture

Situated at the foot of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range is the postcard-perfect Andalusian city of Granada . It is home to the Alhambra palace complex and the ancient citadel of the Nasrid Dynasty, the last Muslim dynasty in the Iberian Peninsula which ruled until the 15th century. Meaning "the Red One," the Alhambra is a stunning architectural masterpiece merging Moorish and Christian decorative elements – it's impossible not to feel transported to a fantasy world with its intricately carved walls and archways, mirror-like pools and colorful mosaics. 

Planning tip:  Continue the visual feast at the Palacio de Generalife right by the Alhambra, a summer palace whose gardens and perfectly orchestrated fountains provided repose for the ancient Nasrid sultans.

8. Santiago de Compostela

Best city for spiritual tourism

Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia and the final destination of the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage, a tradition that stretches back over 1000 years. On any day of the week, you'll see pilgrims from all over the world paying their respects at the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela , the reputed burial place of St James the Apostle. 

Even non-pilgrims can relish the mystical beauty of this northern Spanish city with a distinct Celtic heritage. Its beating heart is the Plaza del Obradoiro , where the luxurious Hostal dos Reis Católicos  stands, believed to be the oldest hotel in the world that was once a hostel for pilgrims.

Planning tip:  Santiago has a rich gastronomic tradition highlighted by its excellent seafood, so be hungry when you visit the city's second most popular attraction after the Cathedral, the Mercado de Abastos food market.

This article was first published August 2021 and updated February 2024

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The 10 best cities to visit in Spain

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 19/12/2023

Villages, beaches, mountains, deserts, forests, cliffs, prairies—Spain has wonderful places! Among all this, cities are full of history and charm. In this article, we'll take a look at the 10 best cities to visit in Spain. Any of them is a great option for a weekend getaway or, for larger cities, a trip of a few days.

If you have landed on this post, you most likely want to know which is the most beautiful city in Spain. It is very difficult to choose just one. However, I am sure that many people would say that Granada deserves the first place in the ranking of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Do you agree?

Apart from a brief description of each Spanish city I mention, I give you some tips on what to see and do in each of them so you can plan your visit easily and faster. At the end of the article, I have included a map of the Spanish cities you should visit.

Table of contents

Most beautiful cities in spain.

Among the most charming cities in Spain are Granada, San Sebastian, Barcelona, Seville… Discover the complete list!

1. Granada, the most beautiful city to visit in Spain

Which other city other than Granada could be at the top of this list of the best cities to visit in Spain? Backed by the Sierra Nevada and presided over by the incredible Alhambra, this Andalusian city is pure magic and enjoyment. Strolling through its streets and discovering all the treasures it holds is a unique and wonderful experience.

Things to do in Granada, Spain

Granada offers an endless number of places to see and plan. Here are some of the most essential things to do and see:

• Visit the Alhambra. I recommend you buy the ticket on the official website of the Alhambra as soon as possible because they are usually sold out.
• Getting lost in the cobblestone streets of the Albaicín neighborhood.
• Watching the sunset from the Ermita de San Miguel Alto.
• Walk along the Paseo de los Tristes.
• Take a tour of Granada to learn more about its history.
• Enjoy the views from the Mirador de San Nicolas.
• Get to know the Sacromonte neighborhood.
• Stroll through the center of Granada and visit places like the cathedral, the Plaza de las Pasiegas, and the Alcaicería.
• Go to the Calle de las Teterías (Calderería Nueva) and enter one of its tea shops.
• Take an excursion from Granada: Salobreña, the Alpujarra Granadina, the Sierra Nevada, or the Cahorros de Monachil.
• Consider a guided tour in Granada .

2. Barcelona, one the best cities to visit in Spain

Barcelona is the Spanish city that foreign tourists dream of visiting the most, and for a reason. Barcelona is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Spain but also one of the most visited cities in the world. Here, you can enjoy a modern city bathed by the Mediterranean Sea and with an incredible atmosphere. You will be amazed by its cultural and gastronomic offerings.

Things to do in Barcelona

• Stroll along the Ramblas from Plaza de Catalunya to the Columbus Monument.
• Visit the incredible Sagrada Familia.
• Take a walking tour of Barcelona to learn more about its history.
• Walk through the streets of the Gothic Quarter.
• Admire the beauty of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà.
• Enter the boqueria, the most famous market in the city.
• Visit Park Güell.
• Visit the Palau de la Música Catalana.
• Visit Barcelona’s Arc de Triomphe.
• Take an day trip to one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia.
• Enjoy the views of Barcelona from the Mirador de Horta or from the Bunkers del Carmel.
• Consider a guided tour in Barcelona .

3. Seville, one of Spain’s must-see cities

In third place is another Andalusian city, Seville! And it is that Seville not only has the color of special, but all of it is. The capital of Andalusia is one of the most beautiful and charming cities in Spain. Anyone who visits it tends to fall in love with it, so be sure to visit it if you are in Spain. Among the places you can’t miss, the incredible Plaza de España will make you fall in love with it!

What to see and do in Seville, one of Spain’s most beautiful cities

• Visit the Cathedral of Seville, the largest cathedral in the world.
• Climb the Giralda.
• Visit the Real Alcazar of Seville.
• Stroll through Maria Luisa Park and visit the Plaza de España, one of the most beautiful places in Spain.
• Stroll through the Triana neighborhood.
• Book a walking tour of Seville to learn more about the city.
• Go up to Las Setas.
• Stroll through the Santa Cruz neighborhood, the Jewish quarter of Seville.
• Watch the sunset by the Triana Bridge.
• Consider a guided tour in Seville .

4. San Sebastian , one of the best cities to visit in the north of Spain

Anyone who has been in this city knows how beautiful San Sebastian is. La Concha Beach, its historic center, its pintxos, its mountains, its viewpoints—San Sebastian is a dream. I myself have visited this beautiful city in northern Spain on several occasions, and I never get tired of returning. San Sebastian, also known as Donostia, is a breath of fresh air.

Near San Sebastian, I recommend you visit the Flysch of Zumaia or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, two of the most incredible natural landscapes in Spain.

Things to do in San Sebastian

• Walk along the Paseo de la Concha.
• Stroll through the Old Town: Constitution Square, San Vicente Church, the Basilica of Santa Maria, and the San Telmo Museum.
• Visit the Miramar Palace.
• Climb Mount Urgull and Mount Ulía.
• Get up to the top of pintxos.
• Go to Santa Clara Island.
• Enjoy the views from the viewpoint of Mount Igueldo.
• Book a walking tour of San Sebastian to learn more about the city.
• Visit the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.
• Consider a guided tour in San Sebastian .

Plan your trip to San Sebastian

• Things to do in San Sebastian .
• Where to stay in San Sebastian .
• Day trips from San Sebastian .
• San Sebastian for 2 days .
• San Sebastian for 3 days .
• Best walking tours in San Sebastian .

5. Salamanca, among the 5 most beautiful cities in Spain

Salamanca, the university city, is among the five most beautiful cities in Spain. Its old part was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1988 for good reason. If you have not been, it is a perfect destination for a weekend.

Things to do in Salamanca

• Visit the University of Salamanca.
• Visit the wonderful Plaza Mayor.
• Visit the Cathedral of Salamanca.
• Book a walking tour of Salamanca to learn about the history of the city.
• The House of Shells.
• Walk through the gardens of Calixto and Melibea.
• Visit Puente Mayor del Tormes.
• Visit Casa Lis (Museum of Art Deco and Art Nouveau).
• Visit Convent of San Esteban.
• Visit the Cave of Salamanca.
• Consider a guided tour in Salamanca .

6. Madrid, Spain’s capital

What can I say? It’s Madrid! I don’t know if it’s the buildings, its people, or its atmosphere (or maybe all of these), but it is indisputable that Madrid is one of the best cities to visit in Spain. If it is true that there are other cities in Spain more beautiful than Madrid, this city receives foreigners like no other. Madrid is a place where anyone can feel at home from the first minute. You will love that feeling.

Things to do in Madrid

• Visit the Plaza Mayor and have a Calamari sandwich.
• Visit the Almudena Cathedral, the Royal Palace and the Sabatini Gardens.
• Walk along the Gran Vía, from Plaza Cibeles to Plaza España.
• Watch the sunset from the Temple of Debod.
• Visit El Oso y el Madroño, in Puerta del Sol.
• Book a walking tour of Madrid to get to know the city better.
• Visit Puerta de Alcala and stroll through the Retiro (do not miss the Crystal Palace).
• Stroll through the neighborhoods of La Latina and Malasaña.
• Enjoy the views from the rooftop of the Círculo de Bellas Artes, the terrace of the Hotel Riu or from the Gourmet Experience of El Corte Inglés de Callao.
• Visit the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia or the Thyssen.
• Have a drink at the San Miguel Market.
• Consider a guided tour in Madrid.

Plan your trip to Madrid

• Madrid 3-day itinerary .
• Madrid 4-day itinerary .
• Luxury hotels in Madrid .
• Free walking tours in Madrid .

7. Toledo, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain

Toledo is another gift of a city and a destination that national or foreign tourists do not want to miss. Get ready to walk through cobblestone streets full of charm. If you want to make a special getaway in Toledo, I recommend staying at Miluna , a hotel located about 50 km outside Toledo. It is one of the most charming hotels in Spain.

Things to do in Toledo, Spain

• Visit the Cathedral of Toledo.
• Visit the Alcazar of Toledo.
• Enter the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.
• Book a walking tour of Toledo to learn more about the history of the city.
• Visit the church of Santo Tomé.
• Stroll through the Jewish quarter.
• Enjoy the views of the city from the Mirador del Valle.
• Visit the Bridge of San Martín.
• Walk through the Bisagra Gate.
• Visit the Synagogue of Santa María La Blanca.
• Visit the Mosque of Cristo de La Luz.
• Consider taking a guided tour in Toledo .

Plan your trip to Toledo

• Best areas and hotels to stay in Toledo .

8. Cordoba, a Spanish city that will make you fall in love

Let’s talk about Cordoba, another stunning Andalusian city! Cordoba is a city that never fails to impress, from its magnificent mosque to its flower-filled patios. It is an absolute must-see on any list of Spain’s most picturesque cities.

Things to do in Cordoba

• Visit the incredible mosque-cathedral of Cordoba. You can buy the ticket here.
• Visit the Medina Azahara.
• Visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos.
• Get lost in its beautiful streets and patios. Do not miss the Calleja de las Flores.
• Book a walking tour of Cordoba to get to know the city better.
• Visit the Roman Bridge of Cordoba and the Calahorra Tower.
• The Corredera Square.
• Visit the Roman Temple of Cordoba.
• Viana Palace.
• Stroll through the Jewish Quarter of Cordoba.
• Consider a guided tour in Cordoba .

9. Caceres, one of the best cities to visit in Spain

This list of Spain’s most picturesque cities would not be complete without Cáceres. Initially, it could be less noticeable than the other cities covered in this piece. That being said, anyone who visits this stunning city will be astonished. Several traces of the many civilizations that have passed through it can still be found in this Roman-founded city. As a result, Spain has one of its most exquisite old towns.

Trujillo, one of Spain’s most exquisite villages, is located close to Cáceres. Make the most of your trip to Extremadura by stopping by this quaint little town.

Things to do in Caceres

• Book a walking tour of Caceres , a great way to get to know the city.
• Stroll through the streets of the old town and discover the Plaza Mayor, the Torre de Bujaco, the Arco de la Estrella, the Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo…
• Taste the local gastronomy: Iberian ham, migas extremeñas, torta del casar (a local cheese), zorongollo, beans…
• If you like cultural visits, don’t miss the Museum of Cáceres.
• Consider a guided tour in Caceres .

10. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela does not escape this ranking of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The capital of Galicia is probably one of the most charming cities in the country. World famous for the Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, Santiago de Compostela hides a lot of corners that you will love to discover.

Things to do in Santiago de Compostela

• Book a walking tour of Santiago , a great way to get to know the city.
• Visit the incredible Cathedral of Santiago , one of the most impressive religious buildings in Spain.
• Get lost in the streets of the historic center; you will love it!
• Try the empanada, the pulpo a feira, the caldo gallego, and, of course, the tarta de Santiago. Try some of the most typical dishes while you go for tapas in the city.
• Walk along the streets of Rúa Nova, Rúa do Vilar, and Rúa do Franco.
• Visit the Museo do Pobo Galego.
• Visit the Mercado de Abastos in Santiago de Compostela.
• Stroll through Alameda Park.
• Consider a guided tour in Santiago de Compostela .

Plan your trip to Santiago de Compostela, Galicia

• Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela .
• Things to do in Galicia .

Map of the best cities to visit in Spain

In the following map, I have pointed out what I consider the most beautiful cities in Spain: Granada, Barcelona, Seville, San Sebastian, Salamanca, Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Caceres, and Santiago de Compostela.

How many of these cities have you visited? I have been to all of them, but there are some that I don’t know so well, either because I was a child or because I haven’t spent enough time there. Do you think any other Spanish city should have made this list?

Check out my Spain travel guide for all the information you need to travel to Spain.

I hope this article about the best cities to visit in Spain has inspired you to choose your next getaway. If you have any questions, I encourage you to leave a comment or email me. See you next time!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

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Map of Spain

Points of interest

Experiences

Giant Map of Spain

Data Spain 

From the lush, green, rugged north; to the pristine beaches along the Mediterranean coast; to the sun-drenched olive groves of the south, Spain's fascinating geography means you'll never have the same experience twice. Just as each of its most iconic cities have a unique feel to them, the different regions of Spain all offer something completely original. 

This large map of Spain will help you figure out how to make your way around the country. If your vacation plans include a full tour of the Iberian Peninsula, no worries—we've also included Portugal. 

Find the grid reference for the part of the map that you want to see and scroll down to the corresponding number in the list below to see a more detailed image of that part of the map.

See more maps of Spain below or buy a map of Spain .

Map of Spain

A1 (#2), A2 (#3), A3 (#4), A4 (#5), A5 (#6), A6 (#7), A7 (#8)

B1 (#9), B2 (#10), B3 (#11), B4 (#12), B5 (#13), B6 (#14), B7 (#15), B8 (#16), B9 (#17), B10 (#18), B11 (#19)

C1 (#20), C2 (#21), C3 (#22), C4 (#24), C5 (#25), C6 (#26), C7 (#26), C8 (#27), C9 (#28), C10 (#29), C11 (#30)

D3 (#33), D4 (#34), D5 (#35), D6 (#36), D7 (#37), D8 (#38), D9 (#39), D10 (#40)

E2 (#42), E3 (#43), E4 (#44), E5 (#45), E6 (#46), E7 (#47), E8 (#48), E9 (#49), E11 (#50)

F2 (#53), F3 (#54), F4 (#55), F5 (#56), F6 (#57), F7 (#58), F8 (#59), F9 (#60), F10 (#61), F11 (#62)

G2 (#64), G3 (#65), G4 (#66), G5 (#67), G6 (#68), G7 (#69), G8 (#70), G9 (#71)

H2 (#73), H3 (#74), H4 (#75), H5 (#76), H6 (#77), H7 (#78), H8 (#79)

I3 (#80), I4 (#81), I5 (#82), I6 (#83), I7 (#84)

Map of Portugal

C1 (#20), C2 (#21), C3 (#22), D1 (#31), D2 (#32), D3 (#33), E1 (#41), E2 (#42), E3 (#43), F1 (#52), F2 (#53), F3 (#54), G1 (#63), G2 (#64), G3 (#65), H1 (#72), H2 (#73)

A1: Northern La Coruña province, Galicia, Spain

Maps of Spain by Data Spain

A2: La Coruña & Lugo provinces, Galicia, Spain

Maps of Spain by Data Spain 

A3: Eastern Lugo province (Galicia) & western Asturias, Spain

A4: asturias, spain, a5: cantabria & western asturias, spain, a6: biscay province (basque country) & western cantabria, spain, a7: gipuzkoa province, basque country, spain, & french basque country, b1: coast of pontevedra province, galicia, spain, b2: la coruña, lugo & ourense provinces, galicia, spain, b3: western león province & eastern ourense province, galicia, spain, b4: león province, castilla y león, spain, b5: northern palencia province (castilla y león) & southern cantabria, spain, b6: southern basque country, eastern burgos & northwestern la rioja, spain, b7: navarre & la rioja, spain, b8: eastern navarre & western huesca province (aragón), spain, b9: northern huesca province, aragón, spain, b10: northern lleida province (catalonia, spain), andorra, southern france, b11: northern girona province, catalonia, spain, & southern france, c1: northwestern portugal, c2: northern portugal & southern galicia, spain, c3: northern portugal & zamora province, castilla y león, spain, c4: zamora province, castilla y león, spain, c5: northern valladolid & southern palencia, castilla y león, spain, c6: eastern burgos & western soria provinces, castilla y león, spain, c7: eastern soria (castilla y león) & western zaragoza (aragón), spain, c8: northern zaragoza province & southern huesca province, aragón, spain, c9: southern lleida province, catalonia, spain, c10: barcelona province, catalonia, spain, c11: costa brava, girona & barcelona provinces, catalonia, spain, d1: northwestern portugal, d2: north-central portugal, d3: western salamanca province, castilla y león, spain, & eastern portugal, d4: salamanca province, castilla y león, spain, d5: southern ávila & segovia provinces, castilla y león, spain, d6: northeastern madrid & western guadalajara (castilla-la mancha), spain, d7: southern zaragoza province & northern teruel province, aragón, spain, d8: teruel province, aragón, spain, d9: southern tarragona (catalonia) & northern castellón (valencia), spain, d10: northeastern tarragona province, catalonia, spain, e1: west-central portugal, e2: east-central portugal, e3: western cáceres province, extremadura, spain, e4: ne cáceres (extremadura) & sw ávila (castilla y león), spain, e5: southwestern madrid & western toledo (castilla-la mancha), spain, e6: southeastern madrid & northern toledo (castilla-la mancha), spain, e7: cuenca province, castilla-la mancha, spain, e8: southern teruel (aragón), western castellón (valencia) and northern valencia, e9: castellón province, valencian community, spain, e11: mallorca, spain, e12: menorca, balearic islands, spain, f1: western portugal, f2: eastern portugal, f3: northern badajoz province, extremadura, spain, f4: southern cáceres province & northern badajoz, extremadura, spain, f5: central ciudad real province, castilla-la mancha, spain, f6: eastern ciudad real & western albacete, castilla-la mancha, spain, f7: albacete province, castilla-la mancha, spain, f8: valencia (valencia) & eastern albacete (castilla-la mancha), spain, f9: southern valencia & northern alicante, valencian community, spain, f10: ibiza & formentera, balearic islands, spain, f11: cabrera & southern tip of mallorca, balearic islands, spain, g1: southwestern portugal, g2: southeastern portugal, g3: southern badajoz (extremadura) & northern huelva (andalusia), spain, g4: northwestern córdoba (andalusia) & eastern badajoz (extremadura), spain, g5: northern córdoba province & western jaén province, andalusia, spain, g6: northern jaén province, andalusia, spain, g7: nw murcia (region of murcia) & se albacete (castilla-la mancha), spain, g8: southern alicante (valencia) & eastern murcia, spain, g9: northern alicante province, valencian community, spain, h1: western algarve, southern portugal, h2: eastern algarve, southern portugal & western huelva, andalusia, spain, h3: western seville province & eastern huelva province, andalusia, spain, h4: eastern seville province, andalusia, spain, h5: southern córdoba province & northern málaga province, andalusia, spain, h6: eastern granada province, andalusia, spain, h7: southern murcia (region of murcia) & eastern almería (andalusia), spain, h8: central coast of murcia province, region of murcia, spain, i3: western cádiz province, andalusia, spain, i4: eastern cádiz province, andalusia, spain, i5: costa del sol (málaga province), andalusia, spain, i6: costa tropical (granada) & costa de almería, andalusia, spain, i7: cabo de gata (almería province), andalusia, spain.

A Guide to the Regions of Spain

Weather in Spain: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

15 Best Under-the-Radar Places to Visit in Spain

How to Get to France From Barcelona and Other Spanish Cities

19 Regions and Islands of Spain: From Worst to Best

The 11 Best Beaches in Spain

Essential Facts About Spain

How to Get from City to City in Spain

Best Cities to Visit in Spain in November

Top 15 Events in Spain in August

What You Should Eat in Spain: City by City

August in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Very Best of Spain's Cities, Regions, Food, and Drinks

Bizarre Festivals, Holidays, and Events in Spain

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

Tenerife Guide: Planning Your Trip

These Are the 10 Best Cities You Need to See in Spain

V ibrant cities, sunwashed beaches , tasty tapas, lisp-y pronunciations—Spain offers all of it and more. Nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, España beckons with a myriad of experiences, from the bustle of Madrid and Barcelona to the pristine beaches along the Costa del Sol, and the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees. When seeking out the best places in Spain, there are no shortage of options—and they cater to every type of traveler.

Related: This High Desert Town Is the Southwest's Favorite New Getaway Spot

Visitors flock to Spain year round for its renowned culture, such as flamenco music and dance, or for traditional annual festivals like La Tomatina—the world’s largest food fight, near Valencia in Buñol, where residents hurl overripe tomatoes. Speaking of tomatoes, they’re a staple of Spain’s cuisine, which features delicious seafood-laden paella, shareable tapas, and delectable wines .

Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or savoring the flavors of Spanish gastronomy, an adventure through Spain promises an unforgettable experience. With such a range, it’s the kind of place to visit with a plan in hand. That's where we come in, with top-notch recommendations for the best places in Spain worth building your trip around.

History buffs can learn here about exploring the bygone wonders of Cordoba, food enthusiasts might be enticed to savor tapas in Seville, and relaxation-seeking nature lovers will probably be drawn to the underrated island of Menorca— one of our top destinations for 2024 travel.  From top to bottom, mountain to sea, here are the 10 best places to visit in Spain this year.  

Best for Urban Explorers: Madrid

Madrid, Spain's vibrant political capital, is also its cultural and artistic hub, with world-class museums, including the renowned Prado Museum —home to masterpieces by artists like Goya and Velázquez. The Royal Palace, a stunning architectural marvel, and the iconic Puerta del Sol, a bustling central square, showcase the city's historical grandeur. For the real local experience, make sure to explore Madrid's lively neighborhoods, such as Malasaña and Chueca, which offer a taste of everyday life in the city with charming cafes, tapas bars, expansive food halls, and vibrant street art. Delicious hole-in-the-wall bars and restaurants are plentiful in Madrid, but the city also offers top-notch fine dining at spots like DiverXO , boasting three Michelin stars, thanks to boundary-pushing, avant-garde dishes crafted by chef David Muñoz.

Where to Stay: Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá

Located in the artistic and cultural heart of Madrid, the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a luxurious boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century palace. Opulent rooms, a stunning garden with a swimming pool, and breathtaking views of the Royal Palace are all unique draws. Guests can dine at the Dos Cielos Madrid by Hermanos Torres, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, and unwind in the exclusive Thai Room Wellness spa.

Best for Art and Architecture: Barcelona

Barcelona, on the northeast coast, is renowned for its architectural marvels, artistic treasures, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, define the city's skyline and are must-see attractions. Make time to stroll down La Rambla, explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, and relax on the city's golden beaches. Barcelona’s art museums are also worth a visit, like MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) for a comprehensive journey through Catalan art, or the contemporary exhibits of MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art Barcelona). A sunny afternoon spent on Barceloneta beach provides a relaxing escape, and the vibrant food scene , featuring delicious Catalan cuisine, will keep you happy and stuffed for the entirety of your stay.

Where to Stay: Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Situated in the Gothic Quarter, the Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a five-star boutique hotel housed in a medieval palace. This elegant hotel blends historic charm with contemporary design, offering luxurious rooms, a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. With its prime location near the Barcelona Cathedral, guests can easily immerse themselves in the city's rich history.

Best for Hikers: Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a Mediterranean paradise known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers breathtaking hiking trails, while the picturesque town of Valldemossa, with its cobblestone streets and historic monastery, is a cultural gem. Palma de Mallorca, the capital, boasts a beautiful cathedral and a vibrant old town, while the island's pristine beaches, such as Es Trenc, are a major draw and must-visit if you’re a sun-seeker. While in Palma de Mallorca, make sure to grab a beverage at Abaco , a cocktail bar housed in a historic 16th-century mansion, renowned for inventive tipples served in the mansion’s various opulent salons.

Where to Stay: Sant Francesc Hotel Singular

Located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca's historic center, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular is a five-star boutique gem set within a restored 19th-century mansion in Palma’s old town. The hotel exudes sophistication with its stylish decor, courtyard garden, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and a pool. Its proximity to landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina are also a plus.

Best for Andalusian Culture: Seville

Seville, in southern Spain, is a passionate city full of flamenco dancing and architectural marvels. The iconic Alcazar of Seville, a stunning palace with intricate Islamic architecture and lush gardens, is a must-visit, as is the Gothic Seville Cathedral—housing the Giralda tower. Wander through the historic Barrio Santa Cruz, with its narrow alleys and charming squares, to soak in the city's medieval charm. The Plaza de España, a grand square with a canal, is another architectural gem. Seville has a vibrant culinary scene, and a visit to El Rinconcillo , the city's oldest tapas bar, offers an authentic taste of Andalusian flavors. For a more modern twist, the Michelin-starred Abantal combines traditional ingredients with innovative techniques.

Where to Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel

The Hotel Alfonso XIII , part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, is a historic property built in the style of a palace. Beautiful courtyards with Moorish-inspired architecture and a swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens make it a lovely place to kick back during your stay in Seville. Another plus is the hotel’s proximity to city landmarks, such as the Seville Cathedral and the Alcazar.

Best for Paella Fans: Valencia

Valencia, on the southeastern coast, combines medieval history with stunning modernity in its futuristic architecture. One of the 12 Treasures of Spain, the City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see, featuring the Hemisféric theater and the Oceanografic aquarium. The historic Valencia Cathedral and the Silk Exchange provide glimpses into the city's medieval past, while the Turia Gardens, a lush park created on a former riverbed, makes for a beautiful stroll. Foodies take note, you're in the homeland of paella here. The classic rice-saffron-chicken-seafood dish was developed in Valencia in the 19th century and remains a big part of the city's culinary cultural identity. For an authentic gastronomic experience, try the paella at La Pepica , a longstanding beachfront favorite, or savor inventive dishes that change daily at Ricard Camarena Restaurant .

Where to Stay: Caro Hotel

The Caro Hotel in Valencia is a monument boutique hotel, housed in a 19th-century palace and just a stone’s throw from the Valencia Cathedral. The walls of this avant-garde hotel are over two thousand years old, and feature an original mosaic from the founding of Valencia in the Roman era, 2nd century BC. Individually decorated rooms, a charming courtyard, and a rooftop terrace, as well as its central location in the heart of the old town, make it an ideal pick.

Best for Beaches and Offshore Nightlife: Ibiza

Ibiza might be primarily known for its vibrant and raucous nightlife, but it also boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural scene. Beyond the clubs, the island offers tranquil beaches such as Cala Comte and Ses Salines. Dalt Vila, the fortified old town of Ibiza Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets and historic landmarks. Es Vedrà, an eye-catching rock formation off the coast, adds an element of mystery, while the Hippy Market in San Carlos provides a unique shopping experience. For those still wanting to party, make sure to pay a visit to the iconic cherry-adorned building of Pacha —a glamorous nightclub with top DJs—or Amnesia for its massive rooms and epic sound system that make it perfect for EDM sets.

Where to Stay: Ca Na Xica

Ca Na Xica , located in the peaceful countryside of Ibiza, is a luxury boutique hotel surrounded by lush gardens and scenic landscapes. This adults-only retreat offers elegantly designed rooms, a serene pool area, and a spa for relaxation. With its tranquil setting, Ca Na Xica provides a perfect escape from the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza while still being within reach of the island's beautiful beaches and attractions

Best for Moorish History: Granada

Granada, home to the iconic Alhambra, is a history lover’s dream. The city’s crown jewel, Alhambra, is a palace and fortress built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid Dynasty, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site with intricate palaces, serene courtyards, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Another must in Granada is a stroll through the historic Albayzín neighborhood, a labyrinth of narrow streets and white-washed houses that preserves the city's Moorish past. The Granada Cathedral, with its impressive Renaissance architecture, is another landmark to add to your itinerary. For a taste of Andalusian cuisine, El Trillo , situated in the Albayzín, offers traditional dishes with a view, or you could indulge in tapas at Bodegas Castañeda , one of the oldest taverns in Granada.

Where to Stay: Palacio de Santa Paula, Autograph Collection

The Palacio de Santa Paula , part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is a luxurious boutique hotel set in a 16th-century convent. This beautifully restored property blends historic charm with modern comforts, offering nice classic rooms, a courtyard garden, and a restaurant serving Andalusian cuisine.

Best for Foodies: San Sebastián

San Sebastián, nestled on the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain's Basque Country, is a city renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and culinary excellence—offering a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant city life. Must-see stops include Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city, the historic Old Town of Parte Vieja with its narrow streets and lively pintxos bars, and its picturesque stretch of shore at La Concha Beach. As a gastronomic haven, San Sebastian boasts an impressive two three-Michelin-starred restaurants: Arzak , known for its avant-garde Basque cuisine, and Martin Berasategui , offering a French-inspired dining experience in a gorgeous hillside setting.

Where to Stay: Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

Overlooking La Concha Beach, the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is more than just a beachside hotel. Established in 1865, it features Belle Époque architecture, a charming lobby, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the bay. The spa is not located on-property, but a short walk away and still worth a visit, thanks to the hotel’s partnership with La Perla Spa, and a gorgeous Bella Époque era pool.

Best for Serenity Seekers: Menorca

Menorca, the quieter sibling of Mallorca, is a Balearic Island known for its unspoiled beauty, pristine beaches, and rich history. It’s also one of our top travel recommendations for 2024. The island's coastline is dotted with secluded coves and clear turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers. The historic Ciutadella, with its medieval streets and impressive architecture, is a gorgeous place to stroll and shop, and Menorca's biosphere reserves, such as S'Albufera des Grau, offer opportunities for nature lovers to explore diverse ecosystems. Make sure to grab dinner at Ses Voltes in Ciutadella, which offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, and to grab a cocktail at Sa Cova D’en Xoroi —a bar nestled in a natural cave overlooking the harbor.

Where to Stay: Villa Le Blanc, Gran Meliá

Villa Le Blanc , part of the Gran Meliá luxury collection, is a sustainable boutique hotel in Menorca, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea on the island’s south coast. This exclusive property offers lavish accommodations, some with private balcony jacuzzis and breathtaking sea views. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean flavors at the hotel's fine dining restaurant, S'Amarador, relax in the spa, or walk a few steps off the property to the beach.

Best Historical Melting Pot: Cordoba

Cordoba, located in Andalusia, is a unique city that preserves a diverse heritage that spans Moorish, Christian, and Jewish influence. Mezquita, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral that seamlessly blends Islamic and Christian influences, features a mesmerizing forest of horseshoe arches. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic Jewish Quarter, called Judería, with its whitewashed buildings, flower-filled courtyards, and the Synagogue of Cordoba. The Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval fortress with beautiful gardens, offers panoramic views of the city. To savor Cordoban cuisine, visit El Churrasco , renowned for its traditional Spanish dishes served in a historic setting. For a contemporary twist, try Noor , which offers a fusion of Andalusian and Moorish flavors.

Where to Stay: Hospes Palacio del Bailío

Hospes Palacio del Bailío is set in a 16th-century palace, boasting a blend of historic architecture and contemporary design, offering stylish rooms, a beautiful courtyard with a swimming pool, and a spa for relaxation. Swim around in their indoor Roman baths, or take a dip in an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by fragrant fruit trees. 

When to Visit Spain

The allure of Spain beckons throughout the year, but the best times to visit depend on your preferences. Spring, from around March to May, is a great shoulder season choice, as the countryside bursts into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, and temperatures hover in the comfortable mid-60s to mid-70s. This season also allows you to explore historic cities like Barcelona and Seville without the intense summer crowds.

The summer months of June to August present the classic sun-soaked Spanish experience, with coastal regions, such as Costa del Sol, boasting blue skies and inviting beaches. Autumn, from September to November, offers a milder climate, making it an ideal time for cultural pursuits in Madrid or hiking the scenic trails of the Pyrenees. For a taste of Spanish winter charm, December to February sees festive lights adorning city streets, and skiing enthusiasts can hit the slopes in the Sierra Nevada.

Flights to Spain

One of the most popular countries in the world to visit, Spain was drawing more than 70 million visitors per year prior to the pandemic. Flights from anywhere in the U.S. to major city hubs like Madrid and Barcelona are plentiful, but those seeking more affordable options should consider an off-peak trip—essentially any time of year besides summer.

A winter trip, between November and February, will yield the cheapest flights, though you will likely have to forgo any beachside stints. Good flight deals are still to be found for shoulder season travel, in late spring from April to May, and early autumn from September to October, and will yield milder weather and relatively light crowds.

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Tourist map of SPAIN

Interactive travel and tourist map of Spain: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links.

The third most visited country in the world: with canyons, mountains, 5000 km of coastline, beaches and cliffs, vibrant nightlife, delicious ham and the best festival parties… Spain is definitely one of the world’s best travel destinations.

Population: 46.710.000 Area: 505.990 sq.km Official Language : Spanish Currency: €uro Drivers Lane: Right When to go: from April to October

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Your Perfect Spain and Portugal Itinerary for 10 to 14 Days

February 1, 2023

Welcome to the complete Spain and Portugal itinerary planner. Enjoy the best of the Iberian peninsula and get ready for your next trip.

Table of Contents

Planning Your Trip Through Spain and Portugal

Many describe Spain and Portugal as some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. And what’s not to like about them? They have gorgeous beaches, centuries-old buildings, delicious food, and a mild climate that attracts tourists even in the winter.

Best of all, they sit next to each other, so you can easily create an amazing Spain and Portugal itinerary and see all the best places in one trip.

I lived in Spain for years and frequently crossed the border into Portugal. But I know that it can seem overwhelming when you’re sitting down to plan out an itinerary for the first time.

So, if you are not sure where to start, here’s a complete guide, including the best cities to visit, top hotels and restaurants, as well as some ideas for day trips in case you have extra time. Follow it as it is or adapt it to your budget and interests and have a fabulous time!

Disclosure: if you book or buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

How Many Days Do You Need for a Spain & Portugal Trip?

There’s so much to see in Spain and Portugal that you’ll probably need months or even years to explore everything. However, you can see the main cities and taste a bit of the local culture in about 14 days. Some people race through both countries in seven days but that is a push and you will feel rushed. Spending around 10 days in Spain and Portugal is a decent amount of time but you will still be moving pretty quickly.

How to Tour Spain & Portugal

All the big towns in Spain and Portugal are connected through direct flights that are shorter than 1 hour and 30 minutes, so if you want to travel fast, it might be worth adding in some flights. You can find some tips to get cheaper plane tickets here.

However, flights bring problems, from having to turn up early to possibly losing your luggage to missing out on all the landscapes and smaller places between the big cities. Plus, the costs (and time) adds up travelling out and back to airports all the time.

Instead, I’d recommend looking at some of the sleek, fast trains and hiring a car in a few places for a great Iberian road trip.

Top Tip: Don’t forget about travel insurance . When you are visiting so many cities in a row, the chances of losing your luggage or experiencing a delay increase.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Spain & Portugal?

The summer months are extremely hot in Spain and Portugal, so it can be uncomfortable to hop from one city to another at 40 degrees Celsius (or higher in Seville.) Having said that, there are plenty of things to be enjoyed during a summer in Spain .

It is better to visit in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is still warm, the crowds are smaller, and the hotel prices are that bit lower.

Or, you could be unusual and see what it’s like to visit Spain in winter.

Your 14-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Madrid, continues to two big cities in Portugal, and returns to Spain for more splendid destinations full of history and colour.

Madrid – 3 Days

The capital of Spain, Madrid, is a beautiful city, combining the charm of the old streets and churches with a more modern architectural vision. It is the first destination on your 14-day itinerary, and you have 3 days to explore its attractions and surroundings.

What to Visit in Madrid

One of the best ways to discover the main attractions in Madrid is to take a tour with a local guide. But you can also visit everything on your own if you are organised. We recommend using public transportation, as the streets are quite busy for a rental car.

Puerta del Sol

As soon as you arrive, head to the city centre to discover one of its most famous sites. Puerta del Sol is the square where all major streets meet. Check out the famous clock that’s the centre of attention on New Year’s Eve, when locals and tourists gather in the square to celebrate.

Plaza Mayor

Grab a coffee or have a bite to eat in Plaza Mayor, a magnificent square in the centre of Habsburg Madrid. This is the oldest part of the city, thronging with souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, and street artists and musicians.

Mercado de San Miguel

Tasty and well-heeled, this much loved madrileño market sells fresh produce and tasty snacks, everything from pastry to charcuterie, Venezuelan corn, and vermouth.

The Palacio Real de Madrid

The Royal Palace in Madrid was inspired by Bernini’s sketches for the Louvre, rejected in France but put to good work in Spain, where this architectural jewel was built. The structure has more than 3,000 rooms, some with special themes. Take the Royal Chemist’s room filled with natural medicine cabinets, for example (you can check out the prescriptions the medics wrote to the members of the royal family.) Or the Royal Chapel, home to a magnificent collection of string instruments made by Antonio Stradivarius.

Catedral de la Almudena

Step out of the Royal Palace and enter the grand Catedral del la Almudena, consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. It is the most important cathedral in Madrid and houses a museum with objects related to the life of the local patron saints. If you’ve got a good pair of lungs, climb the stairs to the dome for a splendid view of the city.

Prado Museum

A huge art hub, the Prado houses over 8,600 paintings, so whatever you do, don’t plan on seeing them all. I would highly recommend booking a guide to help you understand and focus. Alternatively, Prado’s website suggests three itineraries that can help you find your way. Do not miss the highlights: the galleries dedicated to El Greco and the extended Goya collection.

El Retiro Park

In the afternoon, stroll around this huge park, recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes a large number of gardens and monuments spread across 125 hectares.

Snap a picture of the only statue in the world dedicated to the devil, the Fallen Angel, which sits at 666 meters above sea level, and check out the rare plants in the botanical garden. There’s also a puppet theatre that still holds shows, great for kids and adults.

Find out more fun facts about Madrid here.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Pick a hotel close to the centre to access the main attractions on foot. The Centro and La Latina areas are close to everything, including tapas bars and restaurants, and it’s easy to find a good stay here. You can also stay in Lavapiés or Huertas for a more colourful and bohemian atmosphere.

SLEEP’N Atocha and Petit Palace Triball come highly recommended.

Where to Eat in Madrid

La Latina is the best area for eating in Madrid, especially when you only have a few days. Check out Casa Lucas to try their famous black cannelloni, or take a seat at La Perjila for a plate of delicious tapas. If you fancy a steak, don’t miss Casa Lucio – it’s been sizzling since 1974.

Day Trips from Madrid

Dedicate one of the days when you’re based in Madrid to one of the nearby towns or villages for a taste of how life is outside the capital. We suggest Salamanca or Toledo.

A university city located 214 km from Madrid, Salamanca has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list due to its splendid cathedral, the Monterrey Palace, and huge Plaza Mayor.

Only 73 km from Madrid, Toledo is the former capital and something of a museum city reflecting the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian heritage of the people who built it. You can visit the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, El Transito Synagogue, and the Toledo Cathedral to see how cultures crossed in this city that attracted Goya and Picasso.

Getting from Madrid to Porto

• Plane: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Train: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Car: 5 hours 50 minutes

Porto – 2 Days

Cross the border and stop in Porto, a magically romantic city famous for its harbour and wines. See also our fun guide on unusual things to do in Porto.

Top Attractions in Porto

You only have one day to explore the city, if you choose to do a day trip on the next one, so you will need to concentrate on the big attractions only.

Livraria Lello

Book lovers will be delighted to discover the impressive number of novels, poetry books, scientific and historic treatises and so on, all gathered in what seems to be a reader’s paradise. But even those who haven’t read a book in a while shouldn’t miss this place for its exquisite neo-gothic façade and stunning interior. It’s said to have inspired Harry Potter.

Igreja do Carmo

The next stop on your 2-day Porto itinerary, Igreja do Carmo, consists of two buildings connected through a very small home. It used to be a convent, with one building housing the nuns and the other the monks of the Carmelite Order in Porto. The narrow house between them was built to help preserve the chastity of the nuns and the monks’ vow of celibacy. Today, it’s a museum.

Check out the ‘azulejos’ on the exterior of Igreja do Carmo, which are hand-painted blue and white tiles specific to the area.

Sao Bento Train Station

A masterpiece of azulejo art, the palace-like Sao Bento Train Station unravels its imposing façade just a few steps from the Cathedral of Porto. Inspired by the “Beaux-Arts” style, it has a large vestibule covered in almost 20,000 tiles that depict scenes of daily life in Northern Portugal. The grandeur of the vestibule, along with its large glass ceiling, is simply fascinating. And you’ll see plenty of people hanging out here, trying to get that instagram shot.

Chapel of Souls

Probably the most photogenic building in Porto, the Chapel of Souls sits in the middle of the main shopping street. You will immediately recognise its impressive exterior covered in the popular blue and white azulejos depicting different religious episodes like the death of Saint Francis of Assisi or the martyrdom of Saint Catherine.

Porto Cathedral

The Sé do Porto is the oldest cathedral in the city, built in the 12th century and expanded over the centuries. It combines the Romanesque style with Baroque and Gothic influences and is designed more like a fortress with massive walls. Spend a moment of peace in its beautiful forecourt and then head inside to admire its baroque interior. The star is the Baroque loggia, lovely decorated with azulejos.

Ribeira Promenade

Spend the evening in the dreamy Ribeira neighbourhood, discovering the historic centre and admiring the sunset from the Dom Louis I Bridge which connects the two banks of the Douro River. This area of Porto was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And a beautiful one it is too.

Where to Stay in Porto

The Centro-Baixa and Ribeira are the best areas to stay in Porto due to their proximity to the main attractions. The PortoBay Flores is a popular hotel for its luxurious rooms and great service, but if you are looking for mid-range accommodation, Hotel Mercure Porto Centro Aliados offers everything you need at an excellent price.

Where to Eat in Porto

Porto is famous for its tapas, fish, meats, pastel de nata, and wine. Stop by A Bolina for a nice glass of wine over a plate of tapas, and visit O Caseirinho if you want to try an authentic Portuguese fish-based dish. For the best pastel de nata, Confeitaria do Bolhão is your place.

Day Trip from Porto: Douro River Cruise

On your second day in Porto, cruise along the Douro River and visit the Douro Valley, the region famous for producing grapes for the Porto wine. The river cruises start at Porto’s Ribeira pier and can last from a few hours to a whole day.

Porto to Lisbon

• Plane: 55 minutes (plus airport time)
• Train: 3 hours 23 minutes
• Car: 3 hours 10 minutes

Lisbon – 3 Days

A 3-day Lisbon itinerary is the right amount of time to explore the city itself and take a road trip to one of the nearby cities. But if you have less time, you can skip Sintra or Cascais and head directly to Seville.

What to Visit in Lisbon

Lisbon is an acquired taste. Her joy lies in the tumbling ruins and steep streets, her shareable food and her people far more than her checklist of sights. So, don’t rush your first day in the city. Instead, try to connect to the general vibe.

São Jorge Castle

Dating back to the 5th century, this huge castle sits on the summit of São Jorge hill, the highest point in Lisbon. It will take several hours to see it all, along with the small museum inside, so try to be there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Climb to the top of the fortress for a magnificent view of the city.

Next to São Jorge Castle, you will find the Alfama district with its massive cathedral, the St. Vincent Monastery, and the National Pantheon. Stop by the Lisbon Cathedral to see where St Anthony was baptised. And, if you are a literature lover, don’t miss Casa dos Bicos, where you will find an exhibition space dedicated to Nobel Prize winner Jose Saramago.

Santa Justa Lift

Step on this historic lift, which takes you from the Baixa neighbourhood to Bairro Alto. It has a wonderful observation deck that reveals the views over Baixa.

Chiado and Bairro Alto

Stroll around these picturesque neighbourhoods. Chiado is elegant and bohemian, with gorgeous cafes and theatres, whilst Bairro Alto is famous for its great fado restaurants and graffiti art.

Parque das Nações

If you still have time, spend the rest of the day at this modern park, which manages to include an oceanarium with over 25,000 sea creatures, the Vasco da Gama bridge and tower, the Lisbon Casino, and the Vasco da Gama Centre, a huge mall with stores and spaces for entertainment. Other iconic buildings to visit here are the Oriente Station, the turtle-like Altice Arena, and the Portugal Pavilion.

Day 2 – Belem

On your second day in Lisbon, leave the city centre and visit the Belem district at the mouth of the river Tagus. This is the place from where many Portuguese explorers set sail to other parts of the world, returning with incredible riches. Visit the Jeronimo Monastery (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Belem Tower and stop at the Pastéis de Belém, the place where the delicious Portuguese egg tarts were invented.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Baixa is the most popular neighbourhood in the city, with lots of accommodation options. But the Rossio, Chiado and Cais do Sodre are close to the biggest attractions as well. If you want a 5-star hotel, book a room at the Avenida Palace, or go for Hotel Santa Justa for something more mid-range.

• Look at our guide on the best places to stay in Lisbon here.

Where to Eat in Lisbon

The food in Lisbon is simply divine, and there are plenty of restaurants cooking it to perfection. Choose Invicta if you crave fish or langoustines plucked fresh from the ocean.

Food writers say that the best octopus in town is served at Frade dos Mares, and Floresta Das Escadinhas is genius when it comes to ribs.

For more about what to eat in Lisbon, check out our Lisbon food guide here.

Day Trips from Lisbon

If you can spare one more day, take a short trip to the nearby spots of Sintra or Cascais. The easiest way to get there is by car or bus, although you can manage a train and bus combination to Sintra, if you don’ t mind a steep climb at the end.

Sintra is a sight to behold, full of colourful whimsy, history and heritage. UNESCO World Heritage. Visit Vila Palace, the former summer resort of the Portuguese kings, and then stop at the glorious Pena Palace which overlooks the town from its hill.

Even if you don’t have much time, you can pay a quick visit to the fishing village of Cascais, which is only half an hour from Lisbon. Lots of shops and restaurants and sunny beaches make this place worth visiting. It is also famous for its fresh fish and shellfish, so you are in for a feast.

Lisbon to Seville

• Train: 6 hours 45 minutes
• Car: 4 hours 25 minutes

Seville – 2 Days

Cross the border again, this time to discover Southern Spain, where sun-kissed beaches and century-old buildings are only two of the best things to explore.

Seville Tourist Attractions

Seville cathedral and la giralda.

All visits to Seville find themselves in front of the Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede, or simply the Seville Cathedral. Only by St Paul’s Cathedral in London and St Peter’s Basilica in Rome surpasses this monumental building in size.

The main point of focus is the tomb of Christopher Columbus, but the collection of gold and jewellery is something to behold.

The main cathedral tower is the landmark of the city and nicknamed La Giralda. The geometric patterns give away its youth: it was first part of a mosque which once stood upon this land.

Real Alcázar of Seville

Next on, the Royal Alcázar of Seville is a spectacular palace with a lush garden and sumptuous decorations. It was here that Columbus applied for funding for his voyage to “India” and here, too, where the Game of Thrones filmed their palace in the Kingdom of Dorne. Today, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, although for the former rather than latter fact, I believe.

Barrio Santa Cruz

Leave the grand buildings behind and wander through Seville’s most tight-streeted neighbourhood, the former Jewish Quarter in the city. Step by the Centro de Interpretacion Juderia de Sevilla to learn more about their tragic history. And elsewhere, enjoy the bodegas and boutique shops which have sprung up around this lively part of the city.

Casa del Pilatos

The second most beautiful palace in Sevilla, Casa del Pilatos, was inspired by Pontius Pilate’s house in Jerusalem. It combines the Gothic, Italian Renaissance, and Mudéjar styles in an architectural masterpiece decorated with marble columns, azulejos, and flowers. Spend some time in the garden before ending the day on the Guadalquivir River waterfront.

Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park

On the next day, visit Maria Luisa Park, which displays a spectacular collection of Mediterranean trees and plants. It is an oasis of peace in the middle of the town, providing a sweet relief for locals and tourists alike during the summer.

Next to the park, you will find the Plaza de España, a grand affair built for the 1929 Ibero-American exhibition.

Museum of Fine Arts

Probably the second most important museum in Spain after the Prado, the Museo de Bellas Artes in Seville sits in an old monastery building. The façade of the building, as well as the interior, is exquisite, and the collections are not something to miss. Here’s a taste: El Greco, Velásquez, Zurbarán, and Murillo.

Where to Stay in Seville

As in most cities, the city centre is the best place to stay, and you have some fabulous hotels here that seem to be the smaller copies of the palaces in town – the Boutique Hotel Casa del Poeta and the Hotel Gravina51, for example. For a picturesque view and more affordable prices, you can book a room in Barrio Santa Cruz – we recommend H10 Casa de la Plata.

Where to Eat in Seville

Sevilla is home to lots of upscale restaurants where you can try divine dishes in a gorgeous venue, often decorated with plants and small trees. Ispal Restaurante is one of the most popular places in town, and you will have a lovely time here, but if you want a royal experience, try the Michelin-starred Restaurante Az-Zait.

• Check out our guide to the best tapas bars in Seville.

Day Trips from Seville

Andalusia, the region around Seville, deserves a road trip of its own. And that’s why we wrote one here. However, if you don’t have time for that, you can arrange for some absolutely spectacular day trips to three of the south’s big hitters: Cordoba, Granada, or Malaga.

The Mezquita in Cordoba is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Cordoba itself is a fragrant, picturesque Andalusian town. It’s the perfect place to sip on a lemonade or tinto de verano and watch a flamenco performance on one of the lively terraces. But it’s the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Mezquita, a mosque turned into cathedral, which will linger in your memory for decades to come.

At the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains lies the wonderful city of Granada. It’s lively, it’s pretty, it’s fun. And it’s the closest city to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Alhambra, a masterpiece of a Moorish palace and a symbol of defeat and despair. See this Alhambra quote Do not weep like a woman…

Beach lovers should head to Malaga for a relaxing day in the sun. It’s not all about the beach (although it can be if you want it to be.)

Malaga is also the birthplace of Picasso, with a museum dedicated to the artist, and an extremely lively town offering tapas and nightlife galore.

Seville to Barcelona

• Plane: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Train: 5 hours 54 minutes
• Car: 9 hours 15 minutes

Barcelona – 3 Days

The last stop on your Spain-Portugal trip, Barcelona is the heart of the autonomous region of Catalunya, and a popular spot, receiving over 8 million visitors each year.

Barcelona Tourist Attractions

Sagrada familia.

The most iconic building in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, is still under construction. And it has been since 1882.

It is the work of the famous Antonio Gaudi, and like no religious building you’ve ever seen. The best way to visit the basilica is to take a walking tour with a local guide who will give you more information on Gaudi’s vision and the history of the place. Also, book in advance, as tickets to the Sagrada Familia quickly become sold out.

Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

This complex was built at the beginning of the 19th century to serve as a garden city for nursing the sick. It is an exceptional architectural ensemble built in the Art-Nouveau style and declared a World Heritage Site in 1997. A visit here will take you through the history of medicine in Barcelona whilst you admire an outstanding architectural piece.

Barcelona and Gaudi are two inseparable entities. Barcelona left its mark on Gaudi, and Gaudi left his mark on the city. And Park Guell is a prime example. Spend a few hours in this park, considered one of the most iconic Modernist works in the world, and visit the Gaudi House and Museum to learn more about the most loved architect of Barcelona.

A temple for football worshipers, Camp Nou is the mythical stadium of the beloved FC Barcelona. You can take a tour of the stadium and then visit the museum inside. It is the best place to buy yourself a nice FC Barcelona souvenir.

If you are not a big football fan, you can skip Camp Nou and head to Tibidado, a 520-meter mountain. Besides the dramatic views, it is a place of fun, housing an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster.

Casa Batlló

Start your second day in Barcelona at Casa Batlló, another famous Gaudi masterpiece built between 1904 and 1906. Admire the colourful façade and step in to visit the former residence of the Batlló family bathed in light.

Also known as Casa Milà, La Pedrera got its name from its rocky exterior. At the time, the neighbours found this quite unusual, if not downright ugly. When it was built, it completely broke with the conventions of the time. And, yes, it is another fine piece of work from Gaudi.

Montjuic and the Magic Fountain

For an impressive show with music and lights, visit the magic fountain of Montjic in the evening. It usually plays classical music, and is a great place to relax.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

The best neighbourhoods to book a room in Barcelona are Barri Gòtic, La Rambla, and El Raval since they are close to the centre. For a luxurious experience, you can stay at the Serras Barcelona or Seventy Barcelona.

Where to Eat in Barcelona

Bodega Biarritz 1881 has a long history of serving delicious tapas and local dishes, so it’s worth visiting. We also recommend L’Antic Bocoi del Gotic if you want to try a Barcelona fish speciality.

Day Trips from Barcelona

On one of your three days in Barcelona, visit Costa Brava or Sitges for a more small-town vibe.

Costa Brava

Barcelona has a wonderful beach, but Costs Brava is an entire coast of beaches, with inland mountains, volcanic craters and more. You can spend a full day driving around the coast, stopping to visit the medieval city of Girona, zipping off to Michelin starred museums and taking in the surreal nature of the Dali Museum.

At only 39 km from Barcelona, this town is fully surrounded by nature and has a charming historic quarter. It is once again a beach destination that attracts sun worshippers every year. It has an overall bohemian vibe and used to be a meeting point for poets and artists at the end of the 19th century.

More Ideas for Your Spain and Portugal Itinerary

As you can see, this Portugal and Spain itinerary takes in a lot in two weeks. But it also misses a lot out.

There are so many more wonderful road trips through Spain to take. So many more city breaks to enjoy.

In the north, you can visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and discover the religious (and foodie) heritage of San Sebastian. A road trip through Asturias reveals magical mountains and delicious food, and the coast of Galicia can keep you entertained as well.

In the south, you can spend one or two weeks driving around Andalusia in southern Spain or spend a week roaming through the Algarve or walking the overlooked Costa Vicente in Portugal.

Looking for a slightly different experience? Check out our r eview of the Avalon Alegria Douro River Cruise .

More Travel Articles about Spain

• The Spain quiz for curious people
• 49 Interesting facts about Spain
• Spain in one week: an itinerary for your first time in Spain
• How to plan a road trip through Andalucia
• Galicia: how to travel through the salty north of Spain
• The best road trips in Spain
• How to spend a summer in Spain

60 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Madrid | 60 Best Things to Do in Madrid, Spain + MAP

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Being born and raised in the capital of Spain, I can assure you there are lots of  things to do in Madrid . To share all the amazing things this city has to offer, I’ve created this guide of 60 places to visit in Madrid.

This is the largest city and of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain , so I suggest spending at least three days here. This way, you’ll have time for all the top activities in Madrid , like museums, shops, nightlife, and restaurants. But, if you want to explore the places around the city center, you’ll need a few more days.

Also, if it’s your first time in this wonderful city, this  free tour  is a great introduction to Madrid. You may also like the  tourist bus , which passes through the main points of interest.

That said, if you want to get around on your own, the  tourist transportation card  (Zone A) is a good investment. You can select a duration between 1 and 7 days, so you’ll have unlimited access to the public transportation system.

My favorite month to walk around Madrid is May, although any time of year is a great time to experience this city. Now, let’s get to the best  attractions in Madrid, Spain !

1. Prado Museum, one of the best museums in Madrid, Spain

The  Prado Museum  is one of the most important museums in the world, and it’s a  must-see in Madrid  whether you love art or not.

It was inaugurated in 1819 and currently has more than 35,000 works. The museum is well known for its collection of 16th-19th-century paintings, such as  Las Meninas  by Velázquez,  The 3rd of May 1808 in Madrid  by Goya, and  The Knight with His Hand on His Chest  by El Greco.

1. Prado Museum, one of the best museums in Madrid

A visit to the Prado Museum is one of the  best things to do in Madrid , and I would set aside at least a few hours for it. Besides paintings, the museum houses decorative arts and sculptures, including Flemish tapestries and glass and porcelain from the Royal Glass Manufactory of La Granja.

For a short visit, you can access the Prado Museum for free from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday, or Sundays and holidays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. If you’re an art enthusiast, then you may prefer this guided tour  with skip-the-line admission.

2. Royal Palace of Madrid, a lovely place to visit in Madrid

The  Royal Palace , the official residence of the Spanish monarchy, is another  sight to see in Madrid, one of the best cities to visit in Spain . Funny enough, the royal family currently lives in the Zarzuela Palace, and the Royal Palace is for ceremonial use.

When you visit this building, you’ll get a better feel for its majesty and grandiosity. I recommend going inside to see the various treasures that are hidden there, such as artwork by Caravaggio, Goya, and Velázquez.

You can visit the Royal Palace via the Plaza de la Armería, which you’ll find in front of  Almudena Cathedral , another great  place to visit in Madrid . You could do a walkthrough on your own, although first-timers will benefit from this   guided tour . Also, European citizens can visit for free Monday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in winter).

2. Royal Palace of Madrid, a lovely place to visit in Madrid, Spain

On the palace’s outskirts, you’ll find the Plaza de Oriente. The Solemn Relay of the Royal Guard takes place here on the first Wednesday of the month at noon. Don’t worry if you miss it because the gardens in the plaza are gorgeous. On the other side of the palace, you will find the Campo del Moro, a 19th-century English garden.

Just north of the Royal Palace are the  Sabatini Gardens , which were completed after the Civil War. Watching the sunset from the gardens is a romantic  thing to do in Madrid, Spain  with your special someone.

3. Plaza Mayor, the best free thing to do in Madrid

Plaza Mayor  is among the most popular squares in Madrid and practically in all of Spain. Located in the heart of the city, it’s close to other  must-dos in Madrid , such as Plaza del Sol and the Royal Palace.

Plaza Mayor has been the site of several important historical events, such as festivals, bullfights, San Isidro’s beatification, and even public executions. Today, it’s surrounded by old brick structures, including  Casa de la Panadería , the first building in the square.

Visiting Plaza Mayor is essential, as well as a free thing to do in Madrid. Enter through the  Arco de Los Cuchilleros , the famous stone arch entrance, and see the  Felipe III statue , which dates to 1616.

There is always something happening in Plaza Mayor, although it truly comes to life during the holidays. At the famous  Christmas Market , you can browse stalls full of nativity scenes, trinkets, food, toys, and more. If you’re here in December, it’s the perfect place to visit in Madrid at Christmas.

4. La Gran Via, a good place to go in Madrid at night

La Gran Vía  is the main artery in Madrid that connects the Salamanca and Argüelles districts. With all its shops, restaurants, theaters, and city landmarks, it’s an awesome  place to visit in Madrid, Spain  at night.

Some of the most famous buildings on La Gran Via are the Metropolis building at the Calle de Alcalá intersection, which stands out for the dome that crowns the roof; the Telefonica building , which was Spain’s first skyscraper; and the Carrion building , one of the most iconic  sights to see in Madrid . It’s famous for its neon Schweppes sign and the Callao cinema on the ground floor.

Don’t forget the incredible shopping and dining along La Gran Via. Here, you’ll find national and international retail brands and plenty of delicious places to eat.

If you like theater or musicals, you’re in the right place. There are several theaters in this area, including the popular  Lope de Vega Theater , which has staged  The Lion King  for several years. Seeing a show is a great  thing to do at night in Madrid , although you should book your tickets ahead of time. You can check musicals and showtimes online  here .

5. Puerta del Sol, an awesome place to see in Madrid

Puerta del Sol  is one of the most famous  places in Madrid  and perhaps the busiest area in the city. Many Spaniards come here to welcome the New Year at the  Casa de Correos  clock tower.

Visiting Puerta del Sol is one of the best  free things to do in Madrid  because there are several emblematic landmarks here. For example, you can see el Oso y el Madroño statue, as well as  Kilometer Zero , a plaque in the sidewalk marking the point where all of Spain’s national radial roads begin.

Another well-known image in Puerta del Sol is the  Tío Pepe neon sign . It sits atop the former Hotel Paris, in front of the Casa de Correos, and was a successful advertising strategy.

Walking around Puerta del Sol is a quintessential  thing to do in Madrid, Spain , so don’t miss it!

6. El Retiro Park, one of the best places to go in Madrid with kids

If you’re not sure  what to see in Madrid , start with  El Retiro Park , one of the most beautiful parks in the city. An expansive green space for people to relax and disconnect, the park once belonged to the Spanish monarchy. These days, it’s a common spot to rest and hang out with friends on the weekends.

El Retiro is full of interesting places, such as the famous  Crystal Palace . Made of crystal glass and iron. There is also a picturesque pond where you can take a boat ride. You can also visit the Artist’s Walk, a fun  thing to do in Madrid with kids . There are usually street magicians and jugglers here who entertain passersby.

Some other charming spots include the  Rosaleda , which has over 4,000 rose bushes, and the  Cecilio Rodríguez Gardens , where peacocks roam freely.

A visit to El Retiro Park is a  fun activity in Madrid , whether you want a leisurely afternoon by the pond, a romantic stroll among the fountains, or a carefree morning with friends.

7. Visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, another fun thing to do in Madrid, Spain

The  Santiago Bernabéu Stadium  is the official soccer stadium of Real Madrid, my favorite team. It’s also one of the  coolest places in Madrid , whether you’re a sports lover or not.

The stadium, which sits along Paseo de la Castellana , the huge avenue that goes from Plaza Colón north, was inaugurated in 1947. It’s one of the top  tourist attractions in Madrid  and overlooks the Chamartín district.

Inside the stadium, there is seating for over 81,000 spectators, making it the 2nd-largest sports stadium in Spain, after Camp Nou, one of the  best places to visit in Barcelona .

If you can, attend a match at the Bernabéu Stadium. The energy of this place is undeniable and will make for an unforgettable experience. However, if there is nothing going on, I still recommend checking it out since it’s considered a UEFA Elite Stadium and contains a museum that you can see with  this tour .

You’ll be able to visit exclusive parts of the stadium, such as the pitch, player benches, changing rooms, presidential box, and press room. It’s a cool  thing to see in Madrid  if you’re curious about the history of the football club and its players.

8. Free Tours, the best things to do in Madrid

Despite having lived in Madrid all my life, it took me a while to take advantage of the city’s  free tours . Now I can confidently say that they’re a perfect way  to see the sights in Madrid , especially if you’re new to the city.

If you’re not sure which  places to go to Madrid , check out this  free walking tour . It will take you to the most iconic spots in the city, such as Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, San Miguel Market, and Plaza Mayor. I’ve taken it a couple of times when my friends have visited from other cities.

There are more specific  things to do in Madrid, Spain , and some themed tours could be the perfect way to experience them if you understand some Spanish. This free Cervantes tour  takes you through Barrio de las Letras, and  this tour  goes through El Capricho Park.  This tour  of the beautiful Lavapiés and La Latina neighborhoods is also worthwhile, as is  this free tour  through Chueca and Malasaña, where Ascen lived when we met!

9. Temple of Debod, the best place to see the sunset in Madrid

The  Temple of Debod  is a hidden gem and a  must-see in Madrid . This ancient Egyptian temple is about 2,200 years old and was a gift to Spain. You’ll find it in Parque del Oeste, near Plaza de España.

Surrounding the temple are beautiful gardens and a shallow pool of water. You can walk through the shrines between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., and admission is free, so it’s a  must-do in Madrid .

9. Temple of Debod, the best place to see the sunset in Madrid, Spain

Inside the temple, you can learn about Egyptian mythology, society, and hieroglyphics. The hours vary throughout the year so I would check the temple’s official  website  to better plan your itinerary.

Visiting the Temple of Debod is one of the  best things to do in Madrid  at sunset, as the light creates a golden glow on the water. I was lucky enough to live near the temple for a year, and I spent many afternoons there to see the sunset. Without a doubt, it is one of the most unique places to see in the city.

10. Plaza de España, a must-visit in Madrid

Plaza de España  is in the heart of the city, right where La Gran Vía ends, and Calle Princesa begins. If there is any doubt about  what to do in Madrid , look no further than Plaza de España.

Amidst the lovely gardens and fountains, you’ll find the  Monument to Miguel de Cervantes . The statue depicts Cervantes sitting with Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. It’s a well-known landmark in the area, along with the  Torre de Madrid  and the  Edificio España . Those two buildings are on the outskirts of the plaza; the first is over 465 feet tall, and the latter houses the Hotel Riu.

If you’re looking for a moment of rest in the big city, Plaza de España is a good  place to visit in Madrid . Plus, you can find all kinds of shops and cafes on the periphery.

11. La Latina neighborhood, another place you don’t want to miss in Madrid

La Latina  is a historic neighborhood and one of the  coolest places in Madrid . This lively area is known for its narrow, labyrinthine streets, as well as being one of the best neighborhoods to get tapas.

Here, you can find  Plaza de la Paja , a vibrant bar with outdoor terraces, as well as  El Rastro , which I’ll talk about later. Next door to Plaza de la Paja is the  Prince of Anglona Garden , which once belonged to royalty and is now a beautifully landscaped public park.

Another  place to go in Madrid  that I recommend is  Plaza de la Cebada , where you’ll find the  Mercado de la Cebada . You should also check out  La Latina Theater , a concert hall where some of the greatest national artists have performed.

Finally, be sure to take a walk down Cava Baja Street and stop at  Casa Lucio , a restaurant with a rich history and a delicious menu. I recommend the huevos estrellados and arroz con leche !

12. Reina Sofia Museum, a spectacular place to go in Madrid

Along with the Prado Museum, the  Reina Sofía Museum  is among the best museums in Madrid.

The museum is considered the most important contemporary art museum in the city and even in the country, so it’s a  top place to visit in Madrid . Here, you can find works by the masters, such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Pablo Picasso.

In fact, one of the  best things to see in Madrid  is Picasso’s  Guernica  painting. An illustrated representation of the Spanish Civil War, it’s a national treasure for its historical and artistic significance.

The Reina Sofia Museum also houses the  Sabatini Garden , where you can look at sculptures by Alexander Calder, Joan Miró, and Eduardo Chillida. You can check the museum’s  website  to browse the permanent collection and temporary exhibits.

Visiting this museum is a  good thing to do in Madrid  in the morning or on a rainy day. If you go during the week between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., or on Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., admission is free. However, if you are very into art and need more time, you can also book a skip-the-line ticket  here .

For art lovers, Madrid is the perfect city, and you can book this  guided tour  to explore both the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums. Just remember that the Reina Sofia Museum is closed on Tuesday!

13. Las Letras District, an extraordinary place to go in Madrid

The  Las Letras District  is the  place to go in Madrid, Spain  if you’re a bookworm. This literary neighborhood has been the home to some of the most outstanding late-Renaissance writers, such as Cervantes, Quevedo, Góngora, and Lope de Vega.

Huertas Street  is a must-visit in Madrid , as the sidewalks are engraved with famous verses and quotes from these writers. This area is also where you’ll find the Plaza de Santa Ana. The square was home to the first theaters and drama clubs in the city, although now the area is full of restaurants and bars. My favorite place to eat in Madrid, Terra Mundi, is here, too!

13. Las Letras District, an extraordinary place to go in Madrid, Spain

Besides being the perfect place to immerse yourself in literature and tapas, this neighborhood is known for its live music venues. If you’re looking for  fun things to do in Madrid at night , I recommend visiting one of the pubs or bars around here.

14. Lookout points in Madrid, the nicest views over Madrid, Spain

If you like Madrid now, wait until you see it from one of the  best viewpoints in Madrid .

Among the most popular lookout points in the city is the  Círculo de Bellas Artes , whose rooftop is open to the public. It’s at the intersection of Calle Alcalá and Gran Vía, so you will have incredible views of the Metropolis building. The rooftop deck offers 360° views, making it a  must-see in Madrid . You can get tickets to the terrace at the reception desk.

Nearby is the  Cybele Palace , a former telecommunications complex that also boasts beautiful city views. I also recommend the  Hotel Riu Plaza España  rooftop, which is open to the public. You’ll need a ticket, but it’s worth it because this is a  must-do in Madrid . The viewpoint is on the 27th floor and has a glass walkway.

Finally, if you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid on a budget , you can go to the  Corte Inglés in Callao . Go up to the 9th floor to see a lovely view of La Gran Via and the surrounding landmarks.

15. Almudena Cathedral, a tranquil place to go in Madrid

The  Almudena Cathedral  is one of the main tourist attractions in Madrid and the most important cathedral in the city. The church was completed in 1993 and consecrated by Pope John Paul II.

As you walk through this grandiose cathedral, you’ll be struck by the Neo-Gothic architecture and the colorful decorative motifs. The most noteworthy areas are the apse, altar, and stained-glass windows. The crypt is also essential and was one of the first parts to be built.

The cathedral also has a museum where you can look through historical objects from the church’s past, as well as pieces from the Diocese of Madrid. I also suggest going up to the dome and looking out at the city, it’s quite a sight to see in Madrid !

If you want to learn more about Almudena Cathedral, I suggest booking this  guided tour , which also goes to the Royal Palace. It’s an interesting  thing to do in Madrid on a rainy day .

16. Cybele Palace, a quiet place to visit in Madrid, Spain

Cybele Palace , formerly called the Palace of Communications, has become a popular  place in Madrid  in the past few years.

The Palace was completed in 1919 and functioned as a distribution center for the post office, telegraph, and telephone companies. It has several departments and, since 2007, has housed the Madrid City Council’s main offices.

Of all the different areas in the building, the  CentroCentro  is the most popular. This space hosts exhibitions, debates, and cultural activities throughout the year. Plus, it also has a bookstore, cafe, and a tourist information kiosk.

However, what makes this a popular  attraction in Madrid  is the  Glass Gallery . The gallery is a meeting space for exhibitions and cultural events, although it’s gorgeous when it’s empty, too.

17. Puerta de Alcala, an interesting place to go in Madrid

Puerta de Alcalá  is one of the most iconic  attractions in Madrid, Spain . You can find it at the beginning of  Calle Alcalá , the longest street in Madrid. It’s a huge Neo-Classical gate, so you can’t miss it!

More specifically, Puerta de Alcalá is in the Plaza de la Independencia, next to El Retiro Park. It is one of the original gates that granted entry into the city.

This magnificent gate was designed by Francesco Sabatini, who built it in the shape of a triumphal arch. However, unlike other arches in this style, Sabatini built five entrance gates, not just one.

Although Puerta de Alcalá is surrounded by lots of traffic, it’s a great  place to see in Madrid . On a typical day, you’ll see people photographing the famous monument, and you’re bound to see it if you’re walking between Cybele Palace and El Retiro.

18. Go to El Rastro market, an exciting thing to do in Madrid

Visiting  El Rastro market  is a  must-do in Madrid . This is the oldest and most famous open-air market in the city, with around 400 years of history.

You can visit El Rastro on Sundays and during holidays, typically between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. You’ll find all kinds of things at this market: clothes, crafts, kitchenware, antiques, books…anything! Besides being a unique  sight to see in Madrid , it’s a great place to buy second-hand items.

Moreover, the market has different areas, such as Fray Ceferino González Street. It’s also known as Bird Street because vendors could sell animals, but that’s now prohibited. You should also check out San Cayetano Street, also known as the street of painters.

Carnero Street and Carlos Arniches Street focus on old books, while Rodas Street, General Vara del Rey Square, and Campillo del Mundo Nuevo Square sell collectibles and games.

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid on Sunday , look no further than El Rastro! It’s the perfect blend of local culture and tourism.

19. Lavapiés neighborhood, the most multicultural district to visit in Madrid

Lavapiés  is one of the most traditional and multicultural neighborhoods to visit in Madrid. With its steep city streets, it’s known for preserving its traditional charm while building a multicultural identity.

This neighborhood is home to several popular  Madrid attractions , such as the  Reina Sofia Museum . There is also the  Mercado de San Fernando , the perfect place to go for craft beer and artisan cheese.

Lavapiés is also a great  place to go in Madrid  if you love cinema. Here you’ll find the  Spanish Film Library , which specializes in independent films. You can also check out  Casa Encendida , a cultural center that I’ll talk about later.

If you visit Madrid in August, you’ll be able to attend some of the best festivals in Lavapiés, such as the Fiestas de San Cayetano, the Fiestas de San Lorenzo, and the Fiestas de la Paloma. They’re celebrated on the 7th, 10th, and 15th respectively.

20. Atocha Railway Station, A popular place to see in Madrid

Atocha  is the most important railway station in Madrid and all of Spain. It’s a hub for all the other railways in the country, and besides being a transportation station, it’s also an interesting  place to see in Madrid .

Part of the Atocha Station has been converted into a shopping center with shops, bars, and restaurants. However, the highlight is the  tropical garden , which has more than 400 different plant species.

20. Atocha Railway Station, the perfect way to see in Madrid

You may have even heard of the  turtles  at Atocha Station. Until a few years ago, around 300 turtles lived in the tropical garden’s pond. However, the habitat wasn’t the healthiest, so they were moved to a new home.

Another  cool thing to do in Madrid  is to take the  Cervantes Train , which takes you to Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. If you’re interested, you can get more information  here .

It’s worth noting that the Atocha Station was the site of an attack on March 11, 2004, known as 11-M. There is an  11-M memorial  inside the station, which has become a point of interest in Madrid.

21. Royal Botanical Garden, one of the most beautiful places to go in Madrid

The  Royal Botanical Garden  is one of the most important, and most beautiful,  attractions in Madrid . It holds more than two centuries of history and is next to the Prado Museum, so it’s a great place to spend some time.

In 1942, the garden was declared an Artistic Garden, a testament to its 5,000+ plant species. The grounds also include an herbarium, library, and an archive of about 10,000 botanical drawings.

At first, the garden was exclusively for scientific and medicinal purposes. Today, it’s still a research site, but it’s also open to the public, making it one of the most beautiful  places to go in Madrid .

There are four terraces to explore at the Royal Botanical Garden. The first has ornamental plants, rose bushes, and fruit trees. On the second terrace, you’ll see a statue of Carlos III surrounded by lush vegetation. The third section has a pond with chestnut and linden trees, and the last pavilion has a bonsai collection as well as temporary exhibits.

Without a doubt, a visit to this garden is the best  thing to do in Madrid  if you want to disconnect from the noise and traffic.

22. Malasaña neighborhood, a place to enjoy the nightlife in Madrid, Spain

If you ask me, the  Malasaña neighborhood is one of the best places to visit in Madrid. The lively nightlife scene here attracts locals and tourists. However, even if you’re not into partying, the neighborhood also has great museums, historic plazas, cafes, and vintage clothing stores.

Be sure to take a walk along  Fuencarral Street , which starts on Gran Vía and goes to the Chamberí neighborhood. It’s a  trendy place in Madrid,  full of alternative boutiques, the  San Ildefonso Market , and the  History Museum . The museum is in an old Baroque building and has over 60,000 objects. Another good museum in the area is the  Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art .

Malasaña is also home to the  Plaza Dos de Mayo , named for the uprisings of May 2, 1808. This square is where the War of Independence began between Spain and France. Now, the historical plaza is a lively meeting place for friends, as well as a focal point of the national holiday on May 2nd.

We must admit that we’re particularly fond of this neighborhood because it’s where we met! Yet, in addition to that, it offers plenty of fun  things to do at night in Madrid .

23. Chueca, the most popular neighborhood in Madrid

Chueca  is a  must-see in Madrid  because it has such a lively, friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is the ultimate LGBTQ+ district in Madrid, as well as a good place to party.

Every year, Chueca hosts the LBGTQ+ Pride Festival, one of the most popular and colorful parties in the city. If you want to attend, plan your visit to Madrid  for the end of June to early July.

Due to its location in the heart of the city, Chueca boasts plenty of fun  Madrid attractions . One of them is the Museum of Romanticism, where you can explore the works of Goya, Madrazo, and their contemporaries. The museum also displays furniture that once belonged to the writers, as well as the gun that journalist Mariano José de Larra died by.

Another interesting place is the  Palace of Longoria , one of the few modernist structures in Madrid. The city is also home to the House of the Seven Chimneys, which serves as the Ministry of Culture headquarters.

As you can see, Chueca has a bit of everything, so it’s worth adding to your travel itinerary!

24. Eat a “Bocadillo de Calamares” & other local dishes in Madrid

If you want to look less like a  tourist in Madrid , you can try a delicious Bocadillo de Calamares  ( calamari baguette) . While there are more typical Madrid dishes, this one is very popular among locals.

You can find the calamari baguette in just about any bar, especially the ones around Plaza de España. However, my top recommendation is  El Brillante , which is in front of Atocha Station. For me, it’s  the  place to visit in Madrid if you want the best Bocadillo de Calamares.

24. Eat a “Bocadillo de Calamares” & other local dishes, the best thing to do in Madrid

Don’t worry if you don’t eat calamari because there are other traditional  platos Madrileños . You can try the Cocido Madrileño (chickpea stew), Callos (tripe), or huevos estrellados (fried eggs). Or go out for tapas and order croquetas, tortilla de patatas, patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo , and a cold Mahou beer.

Trying the local food is a  must-do in Madrid . If you’re a foodie, check out this  cooking class , where you’ll learn how to prepare some authentic dishes.

25. Eat at Sobrino del Botín Restaurant, the best thing to do in Madrid for date night

Sobrino de Botín Restaurant  is one of the most famous and delicious  places to go in Madrid . It’s a Guinness world record-holder as the oldest restaurant in the world, so you know you’ll get amazing authentic cuisine here.

The restaurant is over 300 years old and has fed internationally-renown writers like Ernest Hemingway and Benitos Perez Galdós. Many people consider Sobrino de Botín the best restaurant in the city to eat suckling pig and lamb since the cooks use a traditional recipe. The González family took charge of the dining spot in the early 1900s, and today it’s run by third-generation family members.

There’s nothing quite like dining at Sobrino de Botín, so I suggest reserving a table . The restaurant is on Cuchilleros Street, close to the San Miguel Market and Plaza Mayor.

Surely, dining here is a romantic  activity in Madrid , so if you’re visiting with your sweetheart, enjoy a date night here!

26. San Miguel market, the most popular place to go in Madrid, Spain

The  San Miguel Market , the city’s gastronomic hub, is one of the top  sights to see in Madrid . It’s a popular place for locals to meet up and for tourists to explore and try some new foods.

The market is in San Miguel Plaza, close to Plaza Mayor. It’s over 100 years old, so it’s a historical site as well as a marketplace. I encourage you to spend some time perusing the stalls of Iberian ham, seafood, rice, artisan cheeses, and desserts. It’s impossible to leave here hungry!

Of course, the typical  thing to do in Madrid  is to order small plates at the standing bar, amidst the shuffle of visitors.

Along with the San Miguel Market, there are a few nearby markets that locals like to frequent. The  San Antón Market , which is about 10 minutes from the Círculo de Bellas Artes, has three floors and dates to the 19th century. The  San Ildefonso Market  is also in the area and often hosts community events.

These last two markets are less popular with tourists, so they’re good alternatives if you want to immerse yourself among the locals.

27. Go out for tapas, another fun thing to do in Madrid

Going out for tapas  is one of the best  things to do in Madrid, Spain at night . Tapas are part of Spanish culture, and there is no better place to get them than Madrid.

If you’re not sure where to go, I suggest this  tapas tour , which will take you to some of the best tapas bars in the city. You can enjoy homemade paella, patatas bravas, Iberian ham, and other typical dishes.

There are some other old bars that I recommend for tapas, such as  Casa Labra  for traditional Castilian cuisine, and  Casa Alberto , a century-old tavern specializing in authentic Madrileño dishes.  Taberna de Antonio Sánchez  is another iconic pub, and  Casa Lucio  is a fine-dining spot with superb huevos estrellados .

Casa Camacho  is another tapas hotspot, and it’s known for its “yayos,” a special mixed drink with club soda, vermouth, and gin. You could also check out El Anciano Rey de los Vinos, Cervantes, and Casa Paco Restaurant.

Of all the tapas you can order, I highly recommend patatas bravas, calamari, tortilla de patatas, Iberian ham, paella, Madrid-style tripe, battered cod, and grilled ear.

28. Chocolatería San Ginés, something you must visit in Madrid, Spain

One of the best  activities in Madrid  is, without a doubt,  eating chocolate with churros at Chocolatería San Ginés . This traditional chocolate shop has been a staple in the city since it first opened its doors in 1894.

You can find the chocolatería between Puerta del Sol and Teatro Real. I recommend visiting for breakfast or stopping by later for a midday snack. Trust me when I say they serve the best churros with chocolate in the entire city.

The chocolatería began serving patrons of the theater after performances. It grew in popularity little by little, and nowadays you will find it in any of the Madrid tourist attraction guides. Besides, it appears in Bohemian Lights , a 1924 play written by Ramón de Valle-Inclán.

29. Enjoy the nightlife, something exciting to do in Madrid at night

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid at night , why not check out the club scene? Madrid’s city center is a safe area that has plenty of nightclubs and bars where locals and tourists have a good time.

There are several different places to party in Madrid, but if you want good music and cocktails, I suggest going to the Las Letras district. If you’re in the mood for dancing, check out  Kapital Theater , an old concert hall near the Royal Botanical Garden that was converted into a seven-story nightclub. Each floor has a unique theme and atmosphere, so you’re bound to find one that suits your style.

My  top places to visit in Madrid  are  La Chocita Sueca  in the Bilbao neighborhood,  Sala Barco  in Malasaña, Barceló Theater , and the  Independance Club , which plays lots of indie rock and pop music.

As you can see, there are plenty of  fun things to do in Madrid at night . If you’re not sure which one to choose, you can book  this tour  to see the most popular pubs and clubs.

30. Moncloa Lighthouse & Museum of the Americas, two awesome things to see in Madrid

Climbing to the top of the  Moncloa Lighthouse  is one of the  best things to do in Madrid, Spain  if you want spectacular city views. The lighthouse is a national monument and was built in 1992 to commemorate Madrid’s title as the European Capital of Culture.

The Moncloa Lighthouse is 361 feet tall, although the viewpoint is slightly lower, at 302 feet. From there, you’ll be able to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Almudena Cathedral, La Gran Via, and the Royal Palace. Whenever my friends come  to visit Madrid , I take them here!

You can learn more about the Moncloa Lighthouse on its official  website , but general admission is less than $5, and even lower for kids, seniors, and people with disabilities. If you visit between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., you can take the guided tour.

Next to the lighthouse is the  Museum of the Americas , which has a collection of over 25,000 Pre-Columbian artifacts. You can browse photographs, ethnographic objects, and other exhibits ranging from the Paleolithic era to the modern-day. You can learn more about the museum on its  website .

31. Cable car to Casa de Campo, the most stunning lookout in Madrid, Spain

Originally,  Casa de Campo  was an area reserved for the Spanish monarchy’s hunting and recreational activities. Today, it’s an interesting  place to visit in Madrid , a beautiful expanse of 3,780 acres.

To visit Casa de Campo, I recommend taking the  Madrid cable car , which leaves from Paseo del Pintor Rosales. As you glide over the park, you’ll get incredible views of Madrid’s green lung and its surroundings. It’s a great  thing to do in Madrid, Spain with family .

If you’re curious about this historic spot, you can book this  bike tour , which takes you to the most beautiful corners of Casa de Campo. The area is full of several cool attractions, such as an amusement park, a lovely lake, and Madrid Arena, a multipurpose pavilion that hosts events throughout the year.

32. Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, a place to visit in Madrid if it rains

The  Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum  is one of the most important museums to see in Madrid, along with the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. Its permanent collection is the perfect complement to those two distinguished museums, so it’s worth adding to your  list of things to do in Madrid .

This museum has over 1,000 works of art ranging from the 13th to the 20th century, giving you a general overview of European painting. Among its collection, you’ll find works by Van Eyck, Caravaggio, Rubens, Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Dalí, among many others.

There are also temporary exhibits and community activities, such as artist talks and children’s events, which are fun  family things to do in Madrid, Spain .

If you like art and you plan to visit the Prado and the Reina Sofía Museum, too, I recommend  this tour , which combines all three museums. Or you can purchase an advance ticket to the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum  here .

Visiting any of these museums is a good  thing to do in Madrid on a rainy day , so keep them in mind.

33. Stop by the National Library of Spain, one of the top free things to do in Madrid

The  National Library of Spain  is a worthwhile  attraction in Madrid because of its valuable collection. The library, which is over 300 years old, stores manuscripts, maps, recordings, music scores, and other materials.

It also has the largest and most important bibliographic heritage in the country. The building includes the National Newspaper Library, which has been digitizing its contents for years and can support online queries from anywhere in Spain.

It’s free to visit the library, so it’s a good  thing to do in Madrid on a budget . Inside, you’ll find exhibition rooms and the  Library Museum , where you can learn more about the history of the National Library of Spain. So, if you’ll be in Madrid for several days, consider checking out this historic place.

34. See the Metropolis Building, one of the top things to do in Madrid, Spain

I’ve mentioned the  Metropolis Building  a few times already, and it’s one of the most symbolic structures in the city. This monument is at the corner of La Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá. You’ll recognize it for its slate dome and angel statue.

The building was designed in 1905 in the French Beaux-Arts style and called for the demolition of five neighboring homes. Today, it’s used for office space, so you can’t visit the inside. However, its exterior is well worth seeing and has become a  unique thing to do in Madrid among locals and tourists.

If you spend some time looking at the Metropolis Building, you’ll notice the Neo-Renaissance façade and Corinthian columns. Atop the structure is the popular angel statue, known as the Winged Victory. If you go to the Círculo de Bellas Artes, another  cool place in Madrid , you can get the best views of the Metropolis Building.

35. Madrid Rio Park, the best thing to do in Madrid for families

Along the Manzanares River, is  Madrid Río Park , one of the city’s most modern parks. Since opening in 2011, it has become a popular  place to go in Madrid , among locals and tourists.

The park has 17 areas for children, so spending a day here is a common  thing to do in Madrid with family . There is also the  Madrid Río Beach , which has water jets and hammocks and is the perfect place to cool off in the summer.

I also recommend checking out the architecture of this park, especially the monumental  Arganzuela Bridge . The park is also a public event space for all kinds of  activities in Madrid , such as exhibitions, plays, concerts, and festivals.

Ascen lived around Madrid Río Park for a bit, and it was her favorite place to walk around. The area is also a favorite among runners and cyclists. Best of all, visiting this beautiful park is  something to do in Madrid, Spain, for free .

36. Four Towers Business Area, a little-known area to visit in Madrid

The  Four Towers Business Area  is in Chamartín, the city’s administrative district. The complex is on the former site of the Real Madrid Sports City training arena and is worth seeing.

The four skyscrapers tower over the rest of the neighborhood and include the  Crystal Tower  (817 feet),  Cespa Tower  (814 feet),  PwC Tower  (774 feet), and the  Space Tower  (735 feet).

A fifth skyscraper,  Caleido Tower , is currently under construction, but it’ll be smaller than the rest. The collection of these magnificent structures has become one of the main  tourist attractions in Madrid .

Near the Four Towers area, you can find the  KIO Towers , also known as the Gate of Europe. The twin towers are 374 feet tall and famously slope over  Paseo de la Castellana . The name, Gate of Europe, comes from the fact that the towers lean towards each other, creating a sort of entryway, and they’re quite a unique  sight to see in Madrid .

37. Night tour, something fun to do in Madrid, Spain

If you’re not into partying, but you want  something to do in Madrid at night , I recommend a  night tour  of the city.

Madrid is a new world at night, and with  this tour , you will visit some of the most popular streets and city landmarks. You’ll get to see these  attractions in Madrid  in a new light, illuminated by the twinkling city lights.

The tour includes stops at La Gran Vía, the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, Puerta de Alcalá, and several others. Your guide will tell interesting stories and urban legends surrounding these monuments, giving you a newfound perspective of the city.

I can guarantee that this is a  fun thing to do in Madrid for young adults  or couples, so be sure to check it out!

38. Teatro de la Zarzuela, an unforgettable place to go in Madrid

The  Teatro de la Zarzuela  is one of the most famous theaters in Spain, so seeing an opera here is one of the best cultural  activities to do in Madrid . You can find the concert hall in the Justicia neighborhood, on Jovellanos Street.

The prestigious theater dates to 1856 and became a National Monument in 1998. It’s also on the city’s Goods of Cultural Interest list. While the original intention of the Teatro de la Zarzuela was to entertain the upper class, today, it has a more accessible atmosphere.

In Spanish,  zarzuela  refers to a Spanish genre of dramatic operatic elements and popular songs with dance. Besides zarzuela, the theater is one of the  coolest places in Madrid  to watch opera, flamenco, and other dance performances.

The theater also holds community conferences and educational programs to help bring the arts to more people. So, if you’re not sure  what to do in Madrid , check out the theater’s  website  to see the current performance lineup.

39. Go shopping, another thing to do in Madrid, Spain

It’s a good idea to think of some  things to do in Madrid on a rainy day , just in case the weather’s bad during your trip. If it rains, you can take the opportunity to  go shopping in Madrid . This city is a haven for shopaholics, particularly the areas of Fuencarral Street, Serrano Street, and Preciados Street.

On  Fuencarral Street,  you’ll find lots of vintage clothing stores and a few high-fashion retailers.  Serrano Street , on the other hand, is where to go if you want luxury brands like Versace, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci.

Preciados Street  has all the popular national and international fashion chains like Zara, H&M, Pull & Bear, and Desigual. There is also a Corte Inglés mall, FNAC department store, and specialty music and bookstores.

If you don’t mind going to the outskirts of the city, I recommend visiting  Las Rozas Village . This outdoor shopping outlet has lots of name brands at a steep discount. Without a doubt, it’s the best  place to go in Madrid  if you’re looking for a great deal on clothes, shoes, or accessories. And if you don’t have a car, you can book  this tour , which leaves from the city center.

40. Platform 0, an interesting attraction in Madrid, Spain

Platform 0 , located in the old Chamberí station, is one of the most interesting  attractions in Madrid . This exhibition project encompasses the historic railway station and has been restored to look like the original 1919 station.

To give some background, the city adopted a metro system in the early 1900s, which revolutionized mobility and accessibility. However, over the decades, the Chamberí station became obsolete and eventually closed in 1966. It remained a ghost town until 1998 when it was cleaned up and turned into a museum.

The goal of the   Chamberí Museum Station  was to portray the Madrid metro at its beginnings. So, the city restored old advertisements and furniture to achieve that authentic look. Visiting Platform 0 is a  unique thing to do in Madrid , and it’s like a time machine back to 1919.

Seeing the Chamberí Museum Station is a  free thing to do in Madrid  if you have time to spare. Just remember that it’s only open Thursday through Sunday.

41. El Capricho Park, another lovely place to go in Madrid

If you’re looking for lovely outdoor  places in Madrid , I highly recommend visiting  El Capricho Park . Considered one of the most beautiful parks in the city, El Capricho boasts landscaped lawns, historic gardens, and other natural elements.

The park was founded in 1784 at the request of the Duchess of Osuna. She loved art and desired a space where artists and intellectuals could gather in nature.

Her dream came true, and today, El Capricho is one of the  must-sees in Madrid , a magical blend of artistic vision and outdoor beauty. While it’s near the airport in the Barajas neighborhood, it’s a quiet place with hardly any tourists.

The landscaping and gardens reflect English, French, and Italian influences. Taking some time to stroll through the park is one of the most  relaxing things to do in Madrid . As you explore, you’ll find monuments, sculptures, a maze, and even a bunker from the Spanish Civil War. You can even take a free tour of the park on Saturdays and Sundays, but you have to  book in advance .

42. Parque Europa, another must-see in Madrid, Spain

Visiting  Parque Europa  is a  fun thing to do in Madrid for free . It’s in Torrejón de Ardoz, about 40 minutes from the city center, but you can get there by commuter train.

The park covers nearly 60 acres and stands out for its reproductions of famous European monuments. There are 18 in total, including the Eiffel Tower, Belém Tower, Brandenburg Gate, and a fragment of the Berlin Wall, among others.

Here, you’ll find picnic areas, restaurants, and lots of reactional activities like a zip-line, an archery range, and a laser maze. So, I think it’s a great  thing to do in Madrid with kids , or even as a date. Plus, admission is free, so why not spend a few hours here enjoying the sights and activities?

43. Madrid Amusement Park, a good thing to do in Madrid for families

Another great family  activity in Madrid  is a visit to  Madrid Amusement Park . Located in Casa de Campo, the park was the first of its kind in the city when it opened in 1969.

Of course, the park has stood the test of time and is a fun  thing to do in Madrid with kids . There is a variety of attractions here, ranging from kid-friendly to extremely thrilling. To appeal to the younger crowd, there are several rides inspired by Nickelodeon TV shows and characters.

Although lots of tourists prefer Warner Park, another  cool place in Madrid  I’ll talk about next, madrileños are loyal to the Madrid Parque de Atracciones. The park is usually quite crowded, especially on weekends, so I suggest booking your  ticket in advance .

44. Parque Warner Madrid, a place you can’t miss in Madrid

Parque Warner Madrid  is another  fun place in Madrid, Spain  for kids and families. It’s in San Martín de la Vega, so if you don’t have a car, I recommend taking the 40-minute bus ride from Méndez Álvaro.

It’s worth the trip because Parque Warner is a  top Madrid attraction  for all ages. There are over 40 rides and activities, and the entire park, which is divided into five themed areas, is based on Warner Bros. characters. So, you can walk through Cartoon Village and see Scooby-Doo and Tweety, then head to DC Super Heroes World to say hi to Batman and Superman.

Spending a day at the park is a  good thing to do in Madrid  as a family, as the attractions range in intensity level. One of the most popular rides is La Venganza del Enigma (Enigma’s Revenge), the highest free-fall in Europe, which plummets 377 feet at 50 mph.

Tickets to Parque Warner Madrid cost twice as much at the door, so buy them in advance  here .

45. Watch a flamenco show, the best thing to see in Madrid

While flamenco dance  is more popular in the south of Spain, it’s a  must-see in Madrid  if you’ve never seen it before.

Flamenco is a traditional art form that originated in Andalusia. It developed from several influences, including one-act plays, popular music, and theatrical Spanish songs. In 2016,  UNESCO  declared flamenco a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Watching a flamenco performance is a sensory experience, and an  activity in Madrid  I highly recommend to first-time visitors. The precise movements can range from sharp and intense to light and flowy. Regardless of the style, the show isn’t complete without a flamenco guitar. It’s a distinct sound that’s hard to hear anywhere else.

There are several places in Madrid to see a performance, but I recommend this  live flamenco show  at the historic Torres Bermejas. For a bit more, you can add on the dinner option and make a romantic date of it. In any case, this is a great  thing to do in Madrid at night , and it’s something you won’t forget!

46. Hammam Al Ándalus Baths, an awesome thing to experience in Madrid

One of the  top places to visit in Madrid  as a couple is the  Hammam Al Ándalus baths . Not only is this a historical place with a rich culture, but it’s also incredibly relaxing.

The baths imitate the ancient Arab baths of Al Ándalus, which was the name of the Iberian Peninsula when it was under Muslim rule around 1000 AD. While the baths today are restored to mimic the originals, they are just as soothing.

Without a doubt, this is the best  attraction in Madrid, Spain,  to escape the hustle and bustle. It’s also perfect for date night, as you and your sweetheart can relax by candlelight and enjoy a massage. After a long day of sightseeing, this will be just what you need!

The baths range in water temperature, with a cool 64°F pool and warmer hot tubs ranging from 96°F to 104°F. There is also a Turkish bath and clean changing facilities. To make it an extra special  activity in Madrid , book a massage or facial  here .

47. Matadero, Tabacalera, & Casa Encendida, three unique places to go in Madrid

If you’re wondering  where to hang out in Madrid  with the locals, I can recommend three cultural centers that may interest you. These places may not be in the typical Madrid tourism guides, but I find them quite interesting.

First,  La Tabacalera  is the best cultural center in the city. It’s an old tobacco factory that sat abandoned for years until 2010. Now, it hosts all kinds of exhibitions, workshops, performances, and talks, so check out the  website  for upcoming events.

Another  trend place in Madrid  is  Matadero , a center for contemporary arts and performances. The space has several pavilions, each designated for a specific activity such as film screenings, book clubs, TED Talks, exhibitions, and more. You can visit the official  website  to learn more about the schedule of events.

Finally, there is  Casa Encendida , which hots film sessions, exhibitions, and art-related activities. The venue also hosts children’s programming and competitions, so there is always something going on. It also has a  website  where you can learn more.

Again, if you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid that are not touristy , and you have several days in the city, check out these cultural venues.

48. Cerro del Tio Pio, one of the most beautiful views over Madrid, Spain

Cerro del Tío Pío , popularly known as  Parque de las Siete Tetas  (park of the seven boobs), is one of the most beautiful  places to go in Madrid , especially at sunset.

The park gets its nickname from its seven hills, and when the sun lowers on the horizon, the place looks like a postcard. This impressive green space provides sweeping views of the city, so it’s the perfect place to rest at the end of the day.

Inside the park, there is a small refreshment stand, a playground, and a path for cyclists. While the typical  tourist in Madrid  wouldn’t go here, it’s a unique attraction off the beaten path, one that you won’t regret visiting.

The area is popular with families and couples, as well as photographers who want to capture gorgeous panoramas of the city bathed in the glow of sunset. A visit to Cerro del Tío Pío is also a good  thing to do alone in Madrid , as you can take a relaxing walk along one of its trails.

The park is in the Numancia neighborhood, within the Puente de Vallecas district, so you can easily get there by subway.

49. Casino Torrelodones, the top-rated place for entertainment in Madrid, Spain

Visiting  Casino Torrelodones , also known as Gran Casino Madrid, is a  fun thing to do in Madrid at night , especially if you love slots and table games. The casino opened in 1978, just one year after Spain lifted General Franco’s ban on gambling.

Today, Casino Torrelodones is the busiest casino in the country. Located on the outskirts of Madrid, in Torrelodones, this place is about an hour away by bus. If that’s too far, you could visit  Casino Colón  on Paseo de Recoletos, which is managed by the same company.

Gran Casino Madrid is gigantic, with several large rooms full of all kinds of games. Here, you’ll find party rooms, table games, slots, games of chance, as well as bars and restaurants. Among them is Cubik Gastro Market, a popular dinner buffet.

Even if you don’t gamble, the casino has a fun atmosphere and could make for a nice  evening in Madrid  with friends.

50. Parque Quinta de los Molinos, one of the most beautiful places to go in Madrid

Parque Quinta de los Molinos  is one of those beautiful places in  Madrid you must see . The park is famous for its almond trees, which blossoms between February and March, creating a lovely pink-and-white landscape.

However, if you travel during any other time of year, don’t worry, because this park is a lively place worth visiting. The area is covered with olive trees, pines, cypresses, eucalyptus, and several other tree species. There is also a pond, a mill, and the Clock House, so there’s a relaxing atmosphere.

This  tourist attraction in Madrid  is over 100 years old and has been a recognized Historical Park since 1997. You can find it on Calle de Alcalá, not far from the airport, so it’s easy to get to. In fact, it’s one of my  top places to visit in Madrid , especially when the almond trees are in bloom.

51. Palace of Linares, another secret place to visit in Madrid

In the Plaza de Cibeles, you’ll find the  Palace of Linares , one of the most mysterious  attractions in Madrid . I say this because there are many legends involving this building. You can hear many of these ghost stories on the guided tours (only in Spanish) the palace holds every Saturday and Sunday.

It was built in 1872 for the Marquis de Linares, who lived here with his wife, Raimunda de Osorio.

Besides being an interesting architectural structure, the palace is also the Casa de América headquarters and hosts talks, debates, conferences, and other events.

This palace may not be the most popular attraction in the city, but if you’re wondering  what to do in Madrid  over several days, it’s worth checking out.

52. Valley of the Fallen & El Escorial, an interesting place to go in Madrid

El Escorial  is an important place to visit near Madrid. Here, you’ll find the Basilica of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a royal burial place requested by Felipe II.

Exploring the pantheons here is an  unusual thing to do in Madrid , but it’s quite fascinating. This is where the remains of princes, royal infants, queens, and kings were laid to rest. Also, there are chapter rooms once belonging to Felipe II and an impressive cloister.

El Escorial offers others  sights to see near Madrid , such as the  Jardines del Príncipe, Garden of the Friars , and the Cottage of the Infant, built for Infante Gabriel, the son of King Charles III.

Another nearby historical attraction is the  Valley of the Fallen , the burial place of over 33,800 soldiers from both sides of the Spanish Civil War. The area was one of the first projects under the Franco regime. While it commemorates fallen Republican and National soldiers, this place is not without controversy. Political prisoners built the burial site, which is loaded with Francoist symbolism.

Francisco Franco himself was buried here, but his body was exhumed in 2019 and relocated to his family’s burial plot at the Mingorrubio cemetery.

Along with El Escorial, this site is a unique  place to visit near Madrid . You can book a  tour  of El Escorial, or do this  half-day tour that also includes the Valley of the Fallen.

53. Visit the Enchanted Forest, one of the best things in Madrid for couples

Another  place to see near Madrid  is the  Enchanted Forest . While it’s a lovely attraction, it’s a bit far, so I only recommend it if you’re spending more than a week in the city.

The Enchanted Forest is in San Martín de las Iglesias, about 45 miles from the city center, or about an hour by car. If you have time, these beautiful botanical gardens are a  must-see around Madrid .

This garden has over 300 topiary sculptures and more than 500 plant species, creating a magical atmosphere. Its collection of cacti, bonsai, and other plants weave into a labyrinth that’s both relaxing and entertaining.

Most people spend about two or three hours here, although it could be nice to have a picnic and spend half a day here. You could also stay overnight at one of the Enchanted Forest bungalows. This is a fun  thing to do in Madrid, Spain with family , as you can go canoeing, take a hike, or practice archery. You can reserve a room on the Enchanted Forest  website .

54. Toledo, the best place to visit around Madrid

If you’re thinking about  what to see near Madrid , the city of  Toledo  is one of the best options. It’s less than an hour from the capital, and there are plenty of excursions that can take you there. My top recommendation is  this one  since it’s well-priced and makes the most of the day by leaving early in the morning.

Toledo is a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site for its stunning architecture and rich history, which you’ll notice as soon as you walk along its streets. The city also played a crucial role in the life and work of Miguel de Cervantes, so if you loved Barrio de las Letras, Toledo is a must-see.

This city stands out for its  Alcazar de Toledo , a stone fortification from the 2 nd century that was rebuilt after the Spanish Civil War. Toledo is also known for its narrow, medieval streets, which add a distinct character to the place. Walking through the town, you’ll notice the buildings’ facades reflect the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences of years past.

I promise that visiting Toledo is one of the  coolest things to do near Madrid . In addition to the tour I mentioned above, there is  this other excursion  that combines Toledo and  Segovia , another city I’ll talk about next.

55. Avila and Segovia, two of the best places to go near Madrid

Depending on how long you’ll be in Madrid, you may want to consider taking a  day trip to Ávila and Segovia . Both cities are beautiful, so I think they’re worth adding to the  list of things to do around Madrid .

You can book  this excursion , which leaves the capital at 9 a.m., and heads to  Ávila , a beautiful city full of historical architecture. The highlight of Ávila is the 8,200-foot wall surrounding the city. The 90 turrets on the wall served to protect the Gothic monuments inside, including the  Cathedral of Ávila , the  Basilica de San Vicente , and the  Convent of Saint Joseph .

The next stop on the tour is  Segovia , where you’ll find the most famous  Roman aqueduct  in Europe as well as historical medieval remains. The city is also home to the  Cathedral of Segovia and the  Alcázar castle , which will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.

Ávila and Segovia are only about an hour from the capital, so taking a day trip to these cities is a  fun thing to do in Madrid, Spain  if you’ll be here for a week or so.

56. See Cuenca & the Ciudad Encantada, another unusual activity to do in Madrid

Another  thing to see in Madrid, Spain  is the city of  Cuenca . Located about an hour and a half from the capital, Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most geologically interesting towns in Spain. It’s also the hometown of my grandparents, so I know the area quite well and highly recommend it.

If you don’t have a car, you can book  this full-day excursion  from Madrid, which includes the most important places in Cuenca.

The day begins with a visit to the  Enchanted City , where you’ll find rock formations from around 90 million years ago. Among these are the “mushroom rocks” and a rock wall that looks as if it were sculpted by human hands.

Then, you’ll make a brief stop at the  Ventano del Diablo viewpoint , which boasts spectacular panoramic views. Finally, you’ll visit Cuenca’s city center, where you can enjoy the main tourist attractions like the  Cuenca Cathedral  and the  Hanging Houses , which are homes built into the cliffside.

If you’re looking for  fun places near Madrid, Spain , I can assure you that Cuenca and its surroundings won’t disappoint!

57. Salamanca, another one of the best places to go near Madrid

The best thing about Madrid is that it’s in the middle of the country, so it’s surrounded by all kinds of cool places. Two hours from the capital, you’ll find  Salamanca , Spain’s top university city. If you’re not sure  where to go in Madrid , Salamanca is a wonderful place to check out.

Plus,  this tour  includes transportation to and from Salamanca, as well as a visit to Ávila.

First, you’ll go to Salamanca and explore its Renaissance architecture and main tourist attractions. Check out the famous  University of Salamanca , the  New Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin , and the  Old Cathedral of Santa María .

Spend some time wandering through  Plaza Mayor , which is absolutely gorgeous at night. If you’re visiting in late December, you’ll get to experience  Nochevieja Universitaria , when all the University students gather in the plaza to celebrate the end of the school term.

The final part of the excursion goes to Ávila, which I described earlier. It makes for the perfect day, and you’ll get to see some of the most impressive sights in the country. Both Salamanca and Ávila are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so whenever anyone asks me  what to see near Madrid, Spain , I mention them!

58. Alcala de Henares, another beautiful place to go in Madrid

Alcalá de Henares  is just 45 minutes northwest of the capital, so it’s a great  place to visit near Madrid . Plus, it’s the hometown of Miguel de Cervantes, so if you’re a fan of his work, you’ll love this city.

To make the most of your time in Alcalá de Henares, I recommend  this half-day tour , which leaves from Madrid’s city center and returns to Atocha Station.

Being the city that inspired the life and work of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá offers plenty of interesting attractions. Here, you can visit the  Cervantes Birthplace Museum , which recreates the home and atmosphere in which the author grew up.

You can also see the  Corral de Comedias , the oldest working theater in Europe, which dates to 1601. Nearby is the old Student Hospice of the  University of Alcalá  and the auditorium that presents the Cervantes Prize, a prestigious literary award.

If you’re looking for  things to do in Madrid, Spain  for a few days, Alcalá de Henares is a perfect option. Spend some time getting to know the most iconic places here and their impact on Spanish literature.

59. Aranjuez, one of the top places to go in Madrid

Aranjuez , a popular vacation spot for former Spanish royalty, is one of the best  places to visit near Madrid . Located 45 minutes south of the capital, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape and importance.

This  half-day tour  includes transportation and admission to the  Royal Palace  in Aranjuez. The palace has been the site of several treaty signings as well as royal deaths.

Besides the Royal Palace, you should spend time visiting the other outstanding attractions in Aranjuez, such as the  Parterre Garden  in front of the palace and  Saint Pascual’s Royal Convent . I also suggest the  Royal Barge Museum  in the Prince’s Garden, where you can see the boats that once transported royalty across the river. You can even  take a boat ride  to learn more about the history and landscape of Aranjuez.

Visiting this city is a great  thing to do near Madrid , so if you’ll be in the capital for more than a week, be sure to check it out.

60. Guadarrama & Manzanares el Real, a unique place to go in Madrid

Sierra de Guadarrama  is my final recommendation if you’re looking for  places to see in Madrid . It’s just 45 minutes from downtown, and the area offers plenty of things to explore, from hiking trails and ski slopes to architectural marvels. It’s one of the best national parks in Spain .

If you don’t have much time, I suggest booking  this excursion , which includes some of the highlights of Guadarrama. Perhaps the most impressive is the  Castillo de Manzanares , a 15th-century fortress with six floors, winding passageways, and a museum.

You’ll also pass through the port of La Morcuera, where you’ll get incredible views of the area. Then, enjoy some time at Miraflores de la Sierra and the ports of Cotos and Navacerrada. The spectacular scenery is part of the draw to Guadarrama, so spend some time enjoying the sights of this mountain range. It’s certainly worth the  visit !

And that’s it for this guide on  things to do in Madrid . I hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know my hometown and that now you’re better prepared to plan your trip! No matter when you come, there will always be something to see and do.

To help you organize your trip, here is a map of  places to visit in Madrid, Spain . This will make it easier to see which areas are close to each other so you can make the most of your itinerary.

As you can see, there are many activities and  attractions in Madrid, Spain . I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this city, but if you have any questions, leave me a comment. I’ll be happy to help you get to know my beloved city, Madrid!

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