Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Spain
Spain, a diverse and vibrant European country, enchants with its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively culture. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the artistic flair of Barcelona, Spain offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Discover historic landmarks, enjoy delicious tapas, and experience passionate flamenco. The country’s beautiful beaches, scenic countryside, and lively festivals make it a top destination for adventure and relaxation. Spain’s unique charm promises an unforgettable travel experience.
When to visit
Temp Range
Currency
Min Budget




Apr – Jun
Sep – Oct
20 – 30 °C
68 – 86 °F
Euro (EUR)
$40-60/day)
Top Attractions
See below for a selection of the top attractions in Spain, review the map to see where these are located to help plan your trip.
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece of modernist architecture designed by Antoni Gaudí. Its intricate facades and stunning interiors, featuring organic shapes and natural light, make it a must-see in Barcelona. Despite being under construction since 1882, it remains a symbol of the city’s artistic heritage.
Access from – Barcelona
Alhambra
The Alhambra is a breath-taking palace and fortress complex in Granada. Known for its exquisite Islamic architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada, it offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Nasrid sultans and the rich history of Moorish Spain.
Access from – Granada
Park Güell
Park Güell is an enchanting public park designed by Antoni Gaudí. Filled with vibrant mosaics, whimsical structures, and panoramic views of Barcelona, it showcases Gaudí’s unique style and creativity. The park’s serpentine bench, colourful dragon, and organic shapes make it a delightful experience for visitors.
Access from – Barcelona
Prado Museum
The Prado Museum in Madrid houses one of the world’s most prestigious art collections. Featuring masterpieces by Spanish artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, as well as works by international artists such as Bosch and Rubens, it offers an unparalleled journey through European art history from the 12th to the 20th century.
Access from – Madrid
La Rambla
La Rambla is a vibrant boulevard in the heart of Barcelona, stretching from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. Lined with cafes, shops, and street performers, it is a bustling hub of activity and a popular spot for tourists to experience the lively atmosphere of the city.
Access from – Barcelona
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor in Madrid is a grand arcaded square surrounded by impressive buildings with beautiful frescoes and a statue of King Philip III at its centre. It has been a site for markets, bullfights, and public executions. Today, it’s a lively place with cafes and events, reflecting the city’s rich history and culture.
Access from – Madrid
Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The adjacent Giralda Tower, originally a minaret, offers stunning views of Seville. The cathedral’s vast interior, ornate altars, and intricate details highlight its historical and architectural significance.
Access from – Seville
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Madrid, also known as Palacio Real, is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, though it is now used mainly for state ceremonies. With over 3,000 rooms, its opulent interiors, lavish decorations, and beautiful gardens reflect Spain’s rich royal heritage and history.
Access from – Madrid
La Concha Beach
La Concha Beach in San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe. Its crescent shape, golden sands, and clear waters make it a perfect spot for relaxation and swimming. The beach is surrounded by a picturesque promenade, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls and seaside activities.
Access from – San Sebastián
Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a historic pilgrimage route leading to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Pilgrims from around the world walk this path for spiritual reasons, adventure, or cultural exploration. The journey offers diverse landscapes, historic sites, and a profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching the cathedral.
Access from – Various routes available, ending at Santiago de Compostela
City of Arts and Sciences
Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. It features a planetarium, an IMAX cinema, an interactive science museum, and L’Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium. The striking structures and innovative exhibits make it a must-visit for those interested in science, art, and cutting-edge design.
Access from – Valencia
Toledo
Toledo is a historic city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Once the capital of Spain, it features a unique blend of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences. Visitors can explore its narrow streets, stunning cathedral, ancient synagogues, and the impressive Alcázar fortress, all set against a backdrop of scenic views.
Access from – Toledo
La Tomatina
La Tomatina is an annual festival held in Buñol where participants engage in the world’s largest tomato fight. Held on the last Wednesday of August, this unique event attracts thousands of people who throw overripe tomatoes at each other, creating a fun and messy spectacle that has become a popular cultural experience in Spain.
Access from – Buñol
Montjuïc
Montjuïc is a prominent hill in Barcelona offering a mix of historical and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the historic Montjuïc Castle, enjoy the lush botanical gardens, and watch the spectacular Magic Fountain show. The area also provides stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Access from – Barcelona
Map
See map of Spain to review top attractions. For the best experience save locally to open with google maps/share with your friends to help plan your next adventure! Some locations are hidden behind others, click map to reveal full details:

Transport
In Spain, key transport routes include the extensive and affordable train network, connecting major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. High-speed trains are efficient for long distances, while regional trains cover smaller towns. Long-distance buses provide budget-friendly options. In cities, metros and buses offer convenient public transport. Taxis are available in all cities, with licensed services displaying a green light and fare meter. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Bolt operate in major cities, offering reliable and cashless transportation options.
Budget
Traveling in Spain generally requires a moderate budget. Plan to spend approximately $80-120 per day day for mid-range accommodations, meals, and local transportation. Budget travellers can manage with $40-60 per day using hostels and budget eateries, while luxury travellers may spend $300+ per day for upscale experiences in cities like Barcelona or Madrid.
Seasonality and Weather
Spain experiences diverse climates across its regions. In Madrid and central Spain, summers are hot (average high 32°C, 90°F) and winters cool (average low 3°C/ 37°F). Coastal areas like Barcelona enjoy mild winters (average high 15°C, 59°F) and warm summers (average high 29°C, 84°F). Southern Spain (Andalusia) is hot and dry, with summers reaching highs of 40°C, 104°F. Northern Spain (Basque Country) has a maritime climate, with cooler summers (average high 25°C, 77°F). The best time to visit is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when temperatures are pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Must Try Dishes



Language
The main language spoken is Spanish. Below are some key phrases (phonetic translation) to get you started. A big smile and a few words can get you a long way!

Spain’s Top Cities
Nearby Destinations
Useful Pages
Image Attributions
| Image | Author | Link |
| La Tomatina | Graham McLellan | Graham McLellan from London, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons |

