Traveling to Europe lets you enjoy new cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and architecture. It’s like introducing new colors to your palette of perspectives, where you try new things and experience the unknown. But you only have so much time and can only visit so many places.
Spain — a country rich with natural beauty, eclectic foods, and vibrant culture — hits on all marks when you want an immersive European vacation. Spain has the ingredients for a fulfilling, refreshing trip, from curated museums to local eateries. But if you’ve never been, knowing where to go might seem daunting.
To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Spain so you can hit the tarmac and start exploring. Let’s dive in.
The 5 best places to visit in Spain
On your trip to Spain, you have limited time to take it all in, get the most out of each day and visit the places that matter. Here are our picks.
Barcelona
Viewing Barcelona’s skyline, every square inch seems covered by historic buildings or cultural byways. Throughout, you’ll find gems like Antoni Gaudi’s architecture, including Casa Milà and La Sagrada Família, and museums, including the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona. Back streets and alleys line the Ciutat Vella (Old City), where you’ll find unique restaurants and cafés with new flavors and deep heritage.
First, we’d visit the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona, followed by a walk through the Ciutat Vella. Then we’d order pizza at Sartoria Panatieri, which focuses on artisan-quality pies. The eatery uses farm-to-table ingredients like local organic flour, and toppings consisting of Mahón cheese, Kalamata olive puree, wild fennel, and more.
Madrid
As the country’s capital since 1561, Madrid serves as a cultural epicenter with a lively mood. To see it all without the walk, try the Teleférico de Madrid, a cable car that runs the width of the city, spanning a river and green spaces, before ending at the amusement park and zoo, Casa de Campo. The Mercado de San Miguel, an eclectic market, lets you try wines and tapas (small plates), or pick up ingredients for your own creations.
While you’re there, try getting tickets to a Real Madrid game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where up to 81,000 soccer fans show their passion for the popular squad. After taking in a thrilling match, we’d visit Taberna El Sur for tapas in a relaxed, fun setting.
Costa Brava
While cities immerse you in new places and people, that can get tiring after a few days. Costa Brava does the opposite, with its cove beaches and ocean-view restaurants. Satisfy your artistic side by visiting the Salvador Dalí house and the Dalí Theatre Museum. Take in the Cap de Creus National Park, with rugged sea cliffs and panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean.
We’d take a kite surfing lesson at Fase Wind, followed by dinner at La Taverna Del Mar, where fresh seafood takes center stage. The restaurant’s cozy feel and healthy menu are perfect for post-surf recovery.
Mallorca
For even more outdoor adventures, visit this group of islands off Spain’s east coast. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range lines the horizon, while the capital city, Palma de Mallorca, holds deep history and numerous galleries, eateries, and bars. Playa Del Muro Beach is a 3.7-mile stretch offering calm waters and peaks in the distance. For the ultimate in freedom, rent a boat and explore Alcúdia Bay, and use the included snorkeling gear to dive in and refresh.
We’d book a full-day tour of Mallorca’s best coves and beaches, followed by dinner at Nus Palma. The restaurant focuses on Asian-inspired recipes using local ingredients, with a simple, honest feel.
Toledo
When you want to know more about Spain’s history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect place. Offering small-town charm and only a short drive from Madrid, the city takes you back in time with centuries-old buildings and eminent artwork. The El Greco Museum focuses on the Renaissance work of the noted Greek painter, architect, and sculptor. Alcázar de Toledo — an imposing military fortress — overlooks the city from its highest point and dates back to Roman times. The city is also known for its Marzipan, a sugary treat made from ground-blanched almonds, egg whites, confectioner’s sugar, and almond extract.
On a day trip to Toledo, we’d visit the El Greco Museum, stroll the streets, and then refuel at Entre Dos Fuegos. Situated within a boutique hotel, the tiny restaurant has an open kitchen and intimate mood, where guests interact with the chef, and enjoy Kumamoto oysters, yellowfin tuna tiradito, and Vallejo style ceviche.
Now you’re ready for a Spanish adventure
With these picks, you can experience a little bit of everything. From the culture and cuisine of the city to the landscapes and waters of the coast, you can learn or relax depending on your mood. When you rent a car, pay a little extra for unlimited mileage, then go everywhere you can before it’s time to return. Then you’ll have more than enough memories.
