Places to visit in Spain
Spain is a diverse and fascinating country filled with open and chilled out people. It is hard not to love it once you get into the rhythm. Slow down it’s easy pace and allow yourself plenty of time to just chill. It’s in the waiting and watching that Spain reveals herself to you.
Barcelona
The capital of Spain and one of the largest cities in Europe is located on the southern coast of the country, directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The beautiful city not only has a rich and diverse history but also an extraordinary arts scene. It is also most definitely one of the best places to go in Spain for its stunning natural beauty.
One of the most popular places to visit in Spain and in Barcelona is the marvelous Sagrada Familia Basilica. The unfinished Roman Catholilc is one of the worl’ds longest running construction project and is now likely to be completed by 2026. If you plan to go to Barcelona for its magnificent seaside then head over and relax and enjoy the sun on Barcelonetta beach. The other very popular activity preferred by most tourists is to enjoy the atmosphere on the lively, Las Ramblas, a pedestrian walkway. It is home to a multitude of restaurants, performers, shops and much more. While in Barcelona try and include a food tour of Barcelona to savor the diverse array of delicious Catalonian dishes. It would be worth remembering that August is the busiest month for tourists. Another word of caution is to be mindful of your belongings in Barcelona. Unfortunately, Barcelona is also notorious for pickpocketing. So be careful and cautious in crowded areas.
Valencia
The third largest city in Spain – Valencia is the home of good food and great fun. It is a charming Mediterranean city and the capital of the old kingdom of Valencia. Just four hours South of Barcelona and three hours east of Madrid. Valencia is one of the best places to visit in Spain as it combines historical appeal, modern architecture, and lush green spaces. Amongst the top attractions and things to do for tourists is to see the futuristic City of Arts and Science. You could also explore the winding streets and alleys of the Barri del Carme or dine on delicious paella, a Spanish delicacy that originated here. If you happen to visit this beautiful city in Spain in March then you could be the lucky ones to dance and celebrate in the street at the Fallas festival. Another important cautionary tip about Valencia that should hold you in good stead is that the taxi drivers are known to overcharge. Therefore, make sure they put their meter on when starting a journey.
Mallorca or Majorca
The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is the largest of the Balearic Islands. The island offers something for both young and old. It is famous for sunny beaches, lively parties, historic architecture, and lush mountain landscapes. The island is one of the best places to visit and a firm favorite of the Europeans for its great blend of culture and excitement, charm and vibrancy. The island is home to stunning white sand beaches with clear turquoise waters. You could also take a leisurely drive through the mountains in the northern part of the island for some magnificent views and impressive landscapes. If you are interested in the history and culture of the island then opt for a guided tour of Palma, the Island’s capital. Since the island is renowned for its party culture beware of drunken revelers late at night on the streets of Mallorca.
Madrid
The capital of Spain and home to the soccer giants of Europe – Real Madrid. The city is the largest city in Spain and most famous for its rich cultural heritage, the love of soccer, and one of the most liveliest and notorious nightlife in Europe. Madrid lies on the river Manzanares and is the historical and geographical center of the country. Some of the landmark tourist spots in the city are Plaza Mayor, the royal palace of Madrid; the royal theatre and the Buen Retiro Park. For the art and artifact lovers there is the golden triangle located along the Paseo del Prado which comprises of three museums. Here you can find impressive works of art by world-famous artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Goya. While in Spain, in any city that you may be, there are places in abundance to dine on delicious Spanish food and drinks. There are many scenic day trips that can be planned from Madrid which include Seville, Toledo, Segovia and Salamanca. Madrid is one of the top places to visit in Spain for its great food. Hence indulge in the culinary delights that Spain has to offer with some world famous local wines.
Seville
Even though you can do a day trip from Madrid to Seville, but it might a bit too rushed to experience this beautiful city. The fourth-largest city in Spain, it is the popular destination in Andalucía. Seville is also known for the magnificent architectural wonders that the city has to offer and makes it one of the most architecturally stunning cities in Europe and Seville. Make it a point to visit and marvel at the spectacular Cathedral of Seville which is one of the largest churches in the world. While on the architectural tour of the city, explore the Real Alcazar, a beautiful royal palace built in the Mudejar style. If you fancy learning a few steps to impress on your return from Spain, you could even earn to dance a traditional and fiery flamenco. If you plan to visit Spain during the summer, be mindful of the heat. Temperatures can be in the late 80’s and even 90’s during the summer months. For all you Insta lovers, the best photos can be captured at the Plaza Mayor just before sunset when it is completely vacant.
Ibiza
The party capital of the Balearic islands, Ibiza is an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. You have to be living under a rock to not have heard of Ibiza. If you have Ibiza as one of the places to visit in Spain on your list then you are definitely young at heart. The world renowned nightlife can be experienced in in Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni, where some of the major European nightclubs have their summer outposts. It is the party capital of Europe in the truest sense and you will not be disappointed if you plan to visit Ibiza for its great music and festivities that last all night long. But the island is not known for parties alone and you can find serene and quiet villages, yoga retreats and beaches as well. It has more to offer than just partying and is home to fabulous beaches with clear blue waters. Ibiza is a year-round destination for travelers looking for fun in the sun and don’t forget to see the stunning Ibiza sunset.
Some common mistakes to avoid in Spain
Trying to see too much
Due to the sheer size of the country which is fairly large compared to other European countries, and you cannot possibly see it all in one trip. Hence it would be better to plan your trip according to your interests. However, you must always include a couple of days each in Barcelona and Madrid. Do not try and check the places to visit in a rush but spend at least two days or more in each city as experience the slow and leisurely Spanish culture.
Thinking it’s all about bulls and flamenco
Spain is not all about angry bulls and women dressed in outrageous attire. You may find them in the Andalusia region of the country but certainly not a common sight in Barcelona. You could however still enjoy a bullfight, if that is something you relish, in Madrid.
Mistaking a rhythm for rudeness
Spain has a leisurely pace to life and you will need to dig in your heel a bit and slow down to meet its tempo. The meals can be long and unhurried and could last for hours. The staff at the restaurants may take their own sweet time hut do not mistake that as rudeness on their part. So hang back and relax and take your time nursing your drink cause you will not be rushed out.
Not packing the right gear
Many tourists make assumptions of the climate and presume that Spain is hot and humid throughout the year. But it is not true and ensure that you pack enough lots of light layers in the summer and a heavy coat during the winter months.
Eating too early
While you may be used to the American way of eating early you might have to adjust your meal times with the slowed down pace of Spain. The meals timings at restaurants are pretty late by American standards and it is not unusual to find the eating joints open only after 8 pm for dinner.
Brush up on Spanish
If you know a bit of Spanish it will go a long way in communicating with everyone on your Spanish adventure.
Keep some Euros on hand
Many smaller shops may not accept credit cards so be prepared and have cash on hand.
Not paying attention in touristy areas
You should be careful in Spain especially in Barcelona and Madrid. Do not leave your belongings unattended in tourist areas. It would be better to leave everything valuable and important in the hotel’s safe. The country is not dangerous, but petty theft is not uncommon.
FAQs
The above mentioned places should be a good enough guide to direct you to planning and choosing from the top destination and places to visit in Spain. This is a perfect holiday planner as you can get to know the top destinations such as Barcelona, Madrid and the Balearic Islands.
Not everywhere in Spain is scorching hot in the summer. The heat haters will be delighted to know that sea temperatures remain fairly cool during the summer months, offering a respite every time you take a dip in the Atlantic or the Mediterranean. Choose from the many options available on the coast or the island resorts if you want to escape from the heat of the summer.
The country is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty, rich history, and culture. You can’t resist to be swept away by the allure of the stunningly-beautiful historic city centers and impressive architectural monuments hailing from another time and age. To narrow down the diversity that Spain has to offer would be a crime cause it offers something for everyone. The wide array of tourist attractions in Spain makes it absolutely impossible to pick a winner for the title of the most beautiful city in Spain.
Spain is a vibrant and exciting place to visit. It is steeped in culture and has abundance of history to discover. The best places to visit in Spain which are perfect destinations for a European vacation are Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville and Ibiza.
Spain is known as an affordable destination in Europe. It is cheaper than many other western European countries. Travelling to different places in Spain is certainly not going to cost you as much as say spending in London. Accommodation in Spain is pretty cheap as per European standards with prices being slightly lower outside the major cities and famous places in Spain.
