Spain
Spain Explore Spain’s rich culture, stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities.
Spain
Mainland Spain is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. From the architectural marvels in Barcelona to the scenic beaches of Costa Brava and Costa Blanca, Spain offers something for every traveler.
In this travel blog, we explore 25 places of interest in Spain, complete with descriptions, external links for more information, and images to guide your journey.
1. Salou – The Costa Daurada
Salou is the perfect destination for a family vacation, offering beautiful beaches and a vibrant atmosphere. The PortAventura World (Link) theme park is one of the largest in Europe, featuring thrilling rides and a water park. In addition to the excitement of the theme park, Salou has plenty of relaxing options, such as Capellans Beach, which is great for swimming, and a lively promenade with shops and restaurants to explore.
2. Torremolinos – The Costa del Sol
Located on the Costa del Sol, Torremolinos is a lively seaside resort known for its long golden beaches, including La Carihuela. Visitors can enjoy water sports, dine at seaside restaurants, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Parque La Batería (Link) for stunning views of the coastline. The town also has a bustling nightlife, with bars and clubs along the beach for evening entertainment.
3. Marbella – Glamour on the Costa del Sol
Marbella is a luxurious and glamorous destination on the Costa del Sol. Famous for its exclusive resorts, upscale boutiques, and glamorous Puerto Banús (Link), a harbor filled with yachts and luxury shops, Marbella also offers beautiful beaches like Marbella Beach. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, enjoy the beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos, and indulge in fine dining at one of the area’s top restaurants.
4. Benidorm – Fun-Filled Resort
Benidorm is one of Spain’s most famous beach resorts, known for its stunning beaches like Levante and Poniente. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a popular choice for both families and party-goers. For thrilling adventures, head to Terra Mítica (Link) theme park, or cool off at Aqualandia (Link), a large water park perfect for families.
5. Barcelona – A City of Art, Architecture, and Beaches
Barcelona is an artistic hub with awe-inspiring architecture and rich history. The iconic Sagrada Familia (Link) by Antoni Gaudí is a must-visit, as is Park Güell (Link), both showcasing Gaudí’s whimsical designs. The Gothic Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets, while La Rambla is perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying street performances. Barcelona also offers beautiful beaches like Barceloneta Beach for a more relaxed experience.
6. Seville – Flamenco, History, and Stunning Gardens
Seville is a city of passion, rich in history and culture. Explore the magnificent Alcázar of Seville (Link), a royal palace with stunning gardens, and the Seville Cathedral (Link), the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Wander through the charming Santa Cruz district, catch an authentic flamenco show, or visit Plaza de España for stunning architecture and a relaxing stroll.
7. Madrid – The Heart of Spain
Madrid is a dynamic capital, blending royal history with modern energy. Visit the Royal Palace (Link) and the world-renowned Prado Museum (Link) to see works by famous Spanish painters like Velázquez and Goya. Retiro Park is a peaceful escape with lovely walking paths, while the bustling Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor are vibrant hubs of activity.
8. Rioja Region – A Wine Lover’s Haven
The Rioja Region (Link) is world-famous for its vineyards and wine production. Explore picturesque towns like Logroño and Haro, and take a wine-tasting tour through the region’s top wineries. One highlight is the Bodegas Ysios winery, known for its contemporary architecture. The region offers an immersive wine-tasting experience, combined with beautiful landscapes and delicious local cuisine.
9. Valencia – The City of Arts and Sciences
Valencia is a beautiful blend of modern innovation and historic charm. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences (Link), home to the Oceanographic aquarium and the Hemisférico IMAX cinema. The Old Town is filled with historic sites, including the Valencia Cathedral, and the Malvarrosa Beach is a great place to unwind. Don’t miss trying paella, the dish that originated in Valencia.
10. Ronda – A City Perched on the Edge of a Gorge
Ronda is a picturesque town known for its dramatic Puente Nuevo (Link) bridge,
- Historical Significance:
The Puente Nuevo was built in the 18th century, taking over 30 years to complete. It replaced an earlier, smaller bridge that collapsed.
- Construction and Design:
The bridge is made of stone and has three arches that span a 120-meter-deep gorge.
- Chamber and Museum:
There’s a chamber above the central arch of the bridge that has a fascinating history, including its use as a prison and later as a museum showcasing the bridge’s history, according to Discover Ronda and CostaExcursions.es.
- Tourist Attraction:
The bridge is a major tourist attraction in Ronda, offering spectacular views and a unique architectural experience.
The town also boasts the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, and Ronda Old Town, with its charming narrow streets and traditional Andalusian architecture. The views from the town’s cliffside location are simply breathtaking, making it a must-see destination in southern Spain.
11. Alicante – A Coastal Delight
Alicante is a popular destination on the Costa Blanca, famous for its beautiful beaches like Postiguet Beach and San Juan Beach. Santa Barbara Castle (Link) offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline. Explore the lively Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade, and the charming Old Town, where you can discover quaint streets, local shops, and restaurants.
12. Costa Brava – Natural Beauty and Secluded Beaches
The Costa Brava (Link) is known for its stunning coastline, featuring rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves. Visit Cadaqués, where the famous artist Salvador Dalí lived, or head to Tossa de Mar, home to a medieval castle overlooking the sea. The Cap de Creus Natural Park offers exceptional hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. Two of the coast’s most beautiful beaches — Platja de I’llla Roja and Platja de Sa Riera — are connected by a short walkway near Begur.
How much money do I need for the Costa Brava?
The Costa Brava isn’t the cheapest destination, but there are many ways to keep your expenses low. While there are a lot of beautiful hotels and vacation rentals you can find with seaside views and top-notch amenities, you can also find reasonable hostels and two-star hotels in the larger beach towns. Transportation and gas will be one of your larger expenses whether you rent a car, or if you travel by bus, especially if you plan to visit multiple towns.
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Accommodations: €22–250 per night (US$23.23–264)
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Round-trip bus ticket from Barcelona: €30–60 (US$32–63)
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Paella lunch for two: €60–80 (US$63–84)
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Glass of wine: €4–10 (US$4.22–10.56)
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Coffee: €1.50–3 (US$1.58–3.17)
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Sandwich: €3 (US$3.17)
13. Costa Blanca – Beaches and Lively Resorts
The Costa Blanca (Link) is a famous region for its sunny beaches and vibrant resorts. Benidorm offers bustling beaches and nightlife, while towns like Denia and Altea offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Explore the charming Cabo de la Nao lighthouse for panoramic views or enjoy hiking in the surrounding natural parks. Terra Mítica, One of Spain’s largest and most popular theme parks. Divided into five thematic areas—Rome, Greece, Egypt, Iberia, and the Mediterranean Islands—the family-friendly destination offers roller coasters, rides, water activities and live performances.
14. Segovia – Roman Aqueduct and Fairytale Castles
Segovia (Link) is home to the impressive Roman Aqueduct, a monumental structure that dates back to the first century. Visit the Alcázar of Segovia (Link), a medieval castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and the Segovia Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. Don’t forget to try cochinillo, the city’s famous roast suckling pig.
15. Cuenca – Hanging Houses and Medieval Charm
The charming town of Cuenca (Link) is famous for its “hanging houses” that cling to cliffs overlooking the Huécar River. Explore the Cuenca Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, which displays contemporary Spanish art. The surrounding landscapes are perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Discover the Wonders of Spain
Spain is a destination like no other, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty that captivates every traveler. Whether you’re exploring the stunning architecture of Barcelona, relaxing on the beaches of Costa Brava and Costa Blanca, or indulging in tapas at a lively local bar, Spain offers endless experiences. The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Alhambra in Granada showcase Spain’s rich history and incredible architecture, while Madrid offers world-class art at the Prado Museum and a taste of royal grandeur at the Royal Palace.
For beach lovers, Spain boasts some of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines, from the crystal-clear waters of the Balearic Islands to the rugged cliffs of the Costa Brava. Adventure seekers can explore the Pyrenees or hike through the dramatic landscapes of Andalusia.
Spain is also home to incredible gastronomy. Whether you’re savoring paella in Valencia, enjoying tapas in Seville, or trying jamón ibérico in Madrid, the flavors are unforgettable. The country is also famous for its vibrant festivals, like La Tomatina and Running of the Bulls, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in unique traditions.
With its warm climate, friendly people, and diverse experiences, Spain should be on every traveler’s bucket list!
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