A European country ideal for food and culture-obsessed travelers on a budget, Spain’s diverse features and efficient train system make it possible to explore the country and get a feel for each region. With moderately-priced accommodations in comparison to pricier countries like France and the United Kingdom, Spain’s proximity to the Mediterranean and its vast geography give tourists many activities and sights to choose from. Below are some of Spain’s greatest sights and cities to see.
Madrid (And Surrounding Area)
As Spain’s capital city, Madrid is a great starting point for those looking to familiarize themselves with the country. Packed with history (and piping hot in the summer), Madrid offers museums, monuments and day trips to famous Segovia and the picturesque town of Toledo. Exploring the capital city in a day might be tough, as it is the second-largest city in the European Union, but it’s speedy metro system makes getting from place to place a bit easier if walking gets tiresome. Amid your sightseeing, don’t forget to stop in for churros con chocolate (churros with chocolate sauce) in a cafe for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Basque Country
In northern Spain near the border of France, Basque Country consists of beautiful beaches like La Concha for summertime travelers and modern art and architecture throughout bustling cities like Bilbao. As an autonomous community, residents in Basque Country often speak Euskara and enjoy a unique culture unlike other regions throughout Spain. Visitors enjoy pintxos (Basque-style tapas), which often include sheep’s milk, meats and cod, and are accompanied by local white and red wines.
Barcelona
As Spain’s most visited city, very few Spanish tourists skip the iconic city of Barcelona where stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudi is scattered throughout the busy streets, such as the famous La Sagrada Familia. A tapas-lovers paradise, nightlife is abundant in Barcelona, with day trips to cava country not too far out of reach. Don’t be surprised if you hear more locals speaking Catalan than Spanish, as Catalan is home to the northeastern Spanish region of Catalonia. Be on the lookout for pickpockets and keep your valuables secure, as Barcelona is notorious for petty theft due to its popularity among tourists.
Seville and Southern Spain
Heading towards the south of Spain, there are many popular cities that you do not want to miss. Seville is the most popular city in the region of Andalusia with gothic and baroque architecture influenced by the Moors. Enjoy a bowl of gazpacho or taste local ham, or catch a flamenco show to get a taste of Andalusian culture.
South of Seville is the Cadiz, the oldest city in Western Europe. Perfect for a day trip from Seville and home to an important port for trade, Cadiz’s pastel architecture lining the sparkling blue sea is worth a visit for those looking for a historical city off the beaten path. Enjoy fresh seafood, soak up some sun or find a stunning view from one of the town’s many watchtowers.
Another noteworthy Andalusian city is Malaga, a port city along the Costa del Sol with great beaches, plenty of sun and known for being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Not too far away is El Caminito del Rey (or “The King’s Little Path”), which allows thrill-seekers the opportunity to hike through the scenic El Chorro Gorge. Guided tours are recommended for safety purposes and last approximately two and a half hours with views that are sure to impress and leave a lasting impact.
