There’s no doubt that Spain has become more and more of a hotspot for tourists with each passing year. Be it for the weather (the winter months are much more bearable than in other European destinations), the varied and delicious gastronomic offering, or simply the overall energy the locals emanate (in the words of a local, “we know how to live”. When someone says Spain, you might immediately think of Madrid or Barcelona, but there are less known neighboring cities and towns with personalities and offerings of their own, making Spain a country you will probably want to visit more than once. We’re sure it won’t tire you to explore the vast offering of cultural activities, unique architecture, and of course, delicious tapas in its different regions. Below find some of the places we recommend visiting in Spain, although the vast list include many more.

 

Madrid

As the capital of the country, Madrid cannot be left out of the list. It has always been a sophisticated destination, but recent years have turned it into a more international city with an influx of expats from all over the world now calling it their home. However, each of its neighborhoods still offer a comfy, small-town feel that will make you want to explore and discover, every corner hiding a piece of history . As if that weren’t enough, the recent opening of multiple luxury hotels, offering of world-class restaurants (you can choose from family-style eateries to over two dozen Michelin star fine dining establishments), an incredible cultural scene with priceless art collections and a vibrant nightlife scene that will have you out till dawn. Make sure to enjoy the afternoon at a terrace drinking cocktails and tapas, so you can then head out to dance the night away in one of its multiple bars, as Madrid is one of the cities with more bars per capita.

 

Castilla – La Mancha

Toledo

A mere a 30-minute train ride away from Madrid, the magical town of Toledo is worth well a visit. You will feel as though you traveled back in time while wandering its picturesque streets, with most of its architecture dating back over 500 years. After enjoying some tapas in town, make sure to try the marzipan, something the city is known for.

 

Cataluña

Barcelona

It is no secret there’s a never-ending debate between locals and tourists alike: Madrid vs. Barcelona. However, it is unfair given that the cities are so different that it would be like comparing black and white. The Catalan capital, with its more relaxed vibe and location next to the sea, it is a blend of the gothic era with the modern. A mecca for architecture lovers (it was the hometown of Gaudí, enough said), each well-defined neighborhood is worth exploring. From the Gothic Quarter and El Born to Gracia, you will be able to find superb gastronomical offerings, varied cultural activities and beautiful sunsets by the beach.

 

Andalusia

Sevilla

Sevilla encompasses all the clichés when you think of Spain: splendid tapas, flamenco dances, lively bars and an incredible mix of Moorish and European architecture. The Alcazar in itself is worth the trip, a royal palace built for the Christian king Peter of Castille at the end of the XI century and a witness of the mark that diverse cultures have left throughout the years in the city, from its Roman origins, to the Muslim and later the Christian periods.

 

Granada

A former Muslim colony, Granada is mostly known for the Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex of the Nasrid Sultans which ruled the last Spanish Muslim Kingdom. However, the city has plenty more offerings for you to enjoy. The narrow and charming streets in the Moorish quarter are definitely worth exploring on foot, drink tea in one of the Moorish tea rooms, or explore the Sacromonte neighborhood (also known as the gypsy quarter) and its caves that were carved into the hillside many years ago as homes but have now been turned into venues for flamenco shows and a great spot for drinks and dancing after dark.  Located below the peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the city’s setting is just as stunning as the melting pot of cultures that permeate all aspects of the city.

 

 

Balearic Islands

Ibiza

Located at the East of the country in the Mediterranean sea, each of the isles of the Balearic Islands are as different as could be. Depending on what you’re looking for is the isle you might want to choose to visit. Head to Ibiza if what you’re looking for is a vibrant party scene with summer parties, beach clubs and multiple nightlife offerings with world-class DJs that play until sunrise. There’s also a growing wellness scene in The White Isle that is turning it into a destination for self-care.

​

Formentera

Ibiza’s little sister, Formentera, is just a half an hour ferry ride away and offers a more slow-paced experience, wide array of beautiful beaches and chiringuitos where you can catch the sunset while sipping cocktails and vibe to world-class DJ sets.

​

Mallorca

Mallorca has been reinventing itself in the last few years, with and influx of creatives, world-class gastronomical offerings and striking hotel openings. Palma, its capital, will not disappoint as you curve through the streets of the old town while appreciating its imposing cathedral, gastronomical proposition, stylish boutiques and art galleries.

 

Menorca

Menorca, the more low-key and less explored of the Balearic Islands, has gained momentum in recent years. With new hotel openings, beautiful calas with pristine white-beaches, vibrant blue water and increase in farm-to-table restaurant offerings, it is a good destination to escape and relax. Make sure to get lost in the medieval streets of Mahón, and visit Hauser & Wirth (inaugurated in 2021) to get your dose of art.

 

 

 

Biscay

Bilbao

Bilbao was put on the map for many thanks to Frank Gehry’s breathtaking Guggenheim Museum, built in 1997, which is still a sight. Since then, the Basque Country’s city has continued to evolve to become a great spot for visitors. The food is to die for, so make sure you go on a txikiteo, which in Basque means going on a bar crawl and enjoy9ing pintxos and small glasses of wine, or txakoli, or the local cider.

 

San Sebastian

A mecca for foodies, San Sebastian has become the unofficial culinary capital of the country. The txikiteo culture is also present here, so make sure to immerse yourself into the soul of the city by bar hopping, however this city has much more to offer than just food. With beautiful beaches (that you’ll enjoy more during the warmer months), multiple art galleries and sculpture parks, it is the perfect spot to get enrooted in the Basque culture.

 

Valencia

The city of Valencia offers an eclectic clash between the traditional and the modern. You can walk through the cobbled streets of the five neighborhoods that make up the historic center and enjoy museums, markets, savory tapas and a vibrant nightlife scene. Paella was created in Valencia, so make sure to include in your itinerary some time to discover the best paella places. Step into the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences where you'll feel as though you've traveled forward in time and take in the incredible buildings and the vast gardens and pools that surround them. 

​