11 Best Cities to Visit in Spain
Innumerable beaches and ski resorts. The sound of castanets and heels. Captivating flamenco and intoxicating sangria. Paella, tortilla and jamon. Yes, today we are talking about Spain. The Sunny Land is perfect for a relaxing beach or a memorable cultural holiday. Every corner in this country is filled with its attractions.
You will see beautiful nature here, represented by mountain ranges, volcanoes, and vast valleys. You will find out new and valuable information by visiting museums, galleries, and exhibitions in Spain.
You will get a splendid experience by participating in the famous fiestas and visiting gastronomic festivals, which are held here almost every month. So, let’s start our tour of the best cities in Spain.
Barcelona
The architectural sights of Barcelona fascinate everyone who approaches them. The Sagrada Familia is an incredible building. The project was developed by the architects Francisco de Paula del Villar, and Antoni Gaudi. Construction began in 1882 and is still incomplete.
Among all the museums in Barcelona, we recommend visiting the Picasso Museum. Many works of the famous artist are presented in the exposition, which, by the way, occupies 5 buildings decorated in the Gothic style.
The architectural sights of Barcelona fascinate everyone who approaches them. The Sagrada Familia is an incredible building. The project was developed by the architects Francisco de Paula del Villar, and Antonio Gaudi. Construction began in 1882 and is still incomplete.
Among all the museums in Barcelona, we recommend visiting the Picasso Museum. Many of his works are presented in the exposition, which occupies 5 buildings decorated in the Gothic style.
What to do in Barcelona?
- Taste delicious Spanish wine with dinner at one of the local restaurants.
- Visit the aquarium, considered the largest in Europe.
- Watch the impressive play of magic fountains.
- View architectural objects, and listen to information about them.
- Walk up the Montjuic mountain.
- Take a look at the legendary Camp Nou football stadium.
Amusement parks, attractions, research museums, zoos with dolphin performances – all of these are also in Barcelona.
Temperature is above zero throughout the year in Barcelona. What is the best time to visit this city? Whenever. The beach season lasts from the beginning of May to the end of September.
How to get there? By plane to Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport. By train. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Casa Camper Hotel Barcelona
Main tourist attractions:
- Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
- Casa Batlló
- Gothic Quarter
- Palace of Catalan Music
- Parc Guell
- Camp Nou
Top-rated city tour: The Most Complete Full Day Private Tour with Sagrada Familia and Park Guell
Valencia
Valencia is a paradise on earth. Many people associate this city with orange groves, sunny coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, white beaches, and beautiful scenery of nature.
Start your journey from the Queen’s Square in the Old City. You will see luxurious buildings with typical Mediterranean Gothic features. Go to the City of Arts and Science, where you can see extravagant futuristic objects.
To see Valencia from above, climb up to the Torre del Miguelete observation deck. You should visit the National Museum of Ceramics, take a walk in the Royal Gardens, and go to the Dolphinarium. If you are planning a trip for March, do not miss the opportunity to participate in the fire festival.
How to get there? By plane to Valencia airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Cosmo Hotel & Bar
Main tourist attractions:
- Central Market of Valencia
- Oceanogràfic València
- Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
- Bioparc Valencia
- Jardi del Turia
Top-rated city tour: Valencia Private Walking.
Palma de Mallorca
You will find everything you need for an exciting diving experience in this city. The water is clear. The underwater world is rich and varied. The history of the city has more than 2 millennia. Tourists come here not only for the beach but also for cultural holidays.
The architecture of the city is represented by traditional Spanish courtyards, ancient Arab quarters, medieval castles, and towering cathedrals. You will be able to discover an exciting panorama from the Belver Fortress.
Ride the red tourist bus. Walk around the historic center of the city. Plan an unforgettable evening of entertainment in Ibiza, where you can sail from Palma de Mallorca by ferry.
How to get there? By plane to Palma de Mallorca Airport. By ferry or cruise ship. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Posada Terra Santa
Main tourist attractions:
- Catedral de Mallorca
- Castell de Bellver
- Palma Aquarium
- Passeig des Born
- Calo Des Moro
- Mercat de l’Olivar
Top-rated city tour: 3 Hours E-Bike Tour in Palma de Mallorca
Madrid
The medieval architecture of Madrid is harmoniously combined with ultra-modern business centers. We recommend you start your trip around the city from Puerta del Sol, which is considered the center not only of Madrid but of all of Spain.
You will be enchanted by the beauty of the Royal Palace. Be sure to see the porcelain and silk rooms. Get inspired at the Prado National Museum. Here you can see the masterpieces of the famous Botticelli, Rubens, and other artists.
Are you hungry? It’s time to visit the Jamon Museum and have a bite to eat here. And then you can go for a coffee at the Chinitas cafe, enjoying the incendiary flamenco. By the way, when it comes to cuisine, try authentic dishes such as callos and cocido.
How to get there? By plane to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid
Main tourist attractions:
- Parque del Retiro
- Prado National Museum
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
- Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Top-rated city tour: Historical Madrid Tour in Private Electric Tuk Tuk
Seville
The main sights of Seville are located in the historical center. Here you can see the Cathedral, where the remains of Christopher Columbus are kept. Stroll through typical Andalusian courtyards with narrow streets and beautiful fountains. Visit the art gallery and the Art Museum.
The Guadalquivir River divides Seville into two parts. A great idea for a holiday is to ride the river tram. While sailing on the water, you will see many interesting objects. And if you are lucky with a guide, you will find out a lot of information about the city and its sights.
How to get there? By plane to San Pablo Airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla
Main tourist attractions:
- Real Alcazar de Sevilla
- Plaza de Espana
- Catedral de Sevilla
- Setas de Sevilla
- Parque de Maria Luisa
Top-rated city tour: Seville Tapas & Flamenco Tour
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Forests and a delightful harbor surround the city. Buildings in Santa Cruz de Tenerife are built in the Canarian style, enchanting with multi-colored facades and elegant wooden balconies. Two baroque churches are located in the center of the city.
You can spend time with pleasure at the Museum of Archeology and Anthropology. The Museum of Military History is located on the very shore of the bay. The Museum of Natural History guide will tell you how the city developed, what sights are there, and how it becomes a famous tourist center.
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife you will find amazing black sand beaches. Do not miss the opportunity to take a photo against the background of a flower clock, scuba dive, or go to the Teide volcano.
How to get there? By plane to Tenerife North Airport (Los Rodeos). By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey
Main tourist attractions:
- Playa de las Teresitas
- Mercado Municipal Nuestra Senora de Africa
- Tenerife Auditorium (Auditorio de Tenerife)
- Parque Rural de Anaga
- Palmetum Santa Cruz Jardín Botanico
Top-rated city tour: Full Day Tour to Santa Cruz with San Cristobal and Taganana
Malaga
The bustling port city is the birthplace of the famous Picasso. The artist’s best works are kept in the local museum and attract art connoisseurs from all over the world. The exposition is exhibited in a building constructed in 1530 on the site of an old Moorish castle.
You will see a combination of different styles in the city’s architecture. The Alcazaba fortress has monumental-style features. The Town Hall combines the characteristics of Art Nouveau and Neo-Baroque. The Gibralfaro fortress was built in a typical oriental style.
Malaga is a perfect place for diving. You will be fascinated by the miscellaneous underwater world with the ship remains and reefs. Be sure to rent equipment and enjoy diving underwater.
How to get there? By plane to Malaga Airport (AGP). By bus. By car. By water transport.
Where to stay? Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio
Main tourist attractions:
- Alcazaba
- Museo Automovilistico & de la Moda
- Malaga Cathedral
- Castillo de Gibralfaro
- Museo Picasso Malaga
Top-rated city tour: Malaga Traditional Wine & Tapas Tour
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The nature of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is fascinating. The 8 km long beach is located here. You can sunbathe here and swim in the warm sea, ride camels on the dunes of Maspalomas, climb the Pico de Bandama observation deck and look down on the city. Visit the Crocodile Park, and see how exotic animals live (crocodiles, pythons, Siberian tigers).
How to get there? By plane to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Airport (LPA). By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Occidental Las Palmas
Main tourist attractions:
- Playa de Las Canteras
- Roque Nublo
- Vegueta
- Casa de Colon
- Poema del Mar
- Jardin Botanico Viera & Clavijo
Top-rated city tour: Full-Day Gran Canaria Highlights Tour
Alicante
From any corner of the city, you will see its main attraction. The medieval castle of Santa Barbara is built on the Benatanquille rock. Other architectural objects are decorated in Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles.
How to spend time in Alicante? Stroll through the Moorish quarter. Visit the Plaza de Toros arena to watch a bullfight. Examine the city from the observation deck of Santa Barbara Castle. The stunning scenery will blow your mind. And be sure to try the delicious paella at the national cuisine restaurant La Nyora.
How to get there? By plane to Alicante-Elche Airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Occidental Alicante
Main tourist attractions:
- Castillo de Santa Barbara
- Guadalest Valley
- Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya
- Mercat Central d’Alacant
- Museo The Ocean Race
Top-rated city tour: Alicante Private Walking Tour
Ibiza
Ibiza is a paradise for those who love incendiary parties. The city is full of cultural attractions. The Carthaginians founded Ibiza 2500 years ago. Ancient buildings are concentrated in the Sa Peny quarter. Here you will see Gothic cathedrals, authentic streets, and objects in the Renaissance style.
What can you do in Ibiza town? Swim in the warm sea. Sunbathe on the beach. Go to museums; there are three of them on the island. Ride a scooter. Float on the ship. And, of course, visit clubs and beach parties.
How to get there? By plane to Ibiza Airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Can Pujolet
Main tourist attractions:
- Es Vedra
- Cala Comte
- Dalt Vila
- Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Club
- Cala Bassa
Top-rated city tour: Full-Day Private Ibiza and Formentera Charter Cruise
Granada
One of the most beautiful cities in Europe attracts tourists with ski resorts, picturesque gardens, Arab palaces, incendiary flamenco, and delicious wine. The Moorish fortress Alhambra is worth special attention. You should also see the towers, Elvira gates, churches, basilicas, and caves of the gypsy quarter.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Generalife. Pluck a juicy orange straight from the tree and eat it. Please note that there are many decorative orange trees in Granada; their fruits are not tasty.
How to get there? By plane to Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. By bus. By car.
Where to stay? Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Main tourist attractions:
- The Alhambra
- Generalife
- Mirador de San Nicolas
- Albayzin
- Royal Chapel of Granada
Top-rated city tour: Alhambra: Small Group Tour with Local Guide & Admission
