Top Vacation Spots in Spain

What makes Spain a leading tourist destination, and why do so many travelers worldwide cherish it? You’ll surely find out as we share the top vacation spots in Spain with you.

Each of these idyllic places possesses a distinct charm, making Spain a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable vacation place. The country abounds with breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, sunny beaches, and some very beautiful islands.

But it's not all about natural beauty and sunbathing. Spain is home to 47 UNESCO world heritage sites, including some very old city quarters, monumental churches, and other attractions of great historical importance. Spain is also renowned for its rich art history drawing in millions of tourists a year to its exquisite art museums.

Brace yourself as we guide you through the list of 30 best Spain destinations.

If you have a taste for history and culture, then you should definitely head to Madrid. You can thank us later! Located on the banks of the Manzanares in central Spain, Madrid is one of the largest cities in Spain and also the capital of the country. The city boasts some of the finest examples of European art and architecture. Distinguished works of great Spanish artists such as Goya, Picasso, Velázquez, and Dali are housed in the city's many museums.

What to see and do in Madrid:

• Witness the brilliance of Picasso and Dali at the Reina Sofia National National Center of Art museum

• Glimpse into the past at Prado National Museum

• Visit Santiago Bernabeu stadium, the home of Real Madrid

• Be impressed by the kingly opulence at the Royal Palace

• Stroll around the Plaza Mayor

• Enjoy a performance while dining at the Corral de la Moreria

• Unwind yourself at the Parque del Retiro

This glittering cosmopolitan city injects visitors with a heavy dose of art and culture. You could say it’s a pilgrimage of sorts for Messi fans, with its famous Lionel Messi Fans Club. Those are reasons enough to make time for Barcelona. Located on the Mediterranean coast in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and one of the top destinations in Spain. This global city is defined by beautiful Catalan and Gothic architecture, a throbbing nightlife, and world-class cuisine.

What to see and do in Barcelona:

• Appreciate the architectural acumen of Goudi at Basilica of the Sagrada Familia

• Pick up some local delicacies from the Boqueria Market

• Visit FC Barcelona at Camp Nou stadium

• Familiarize yourself with the local culture at the National Art Museum of Catalonia

• Explore the city's Gothic quarter

• Shake a leg and enjoy the night at the Razzmatazz

Come experience a Spain destination that’s more Czech than Spanish - thanks to the predominant Basque culture of the area. A beautiful resort retreat on the Bay of Biscay, the city of San Sebastian (Donostia in Basque) straddles the western Pyrenees near Spain’s border with France. It is one of the most important cities for the Baque people inhabiting the western part of the French-Spanish border. Because of its unique Basque cuisine and culture plus its luscious seafood, San Sebastian is a must-see place for everyone vacationing in Spain.
 

What to see and do in San Sebastian:

• Have some fun at the La Concha Beach

• Trek to the castle atop Mount Urgull

• Traverse the narrow streets of Parte Vieja or the Old Quarter

• Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Igueldo

• Enjoy the delectable seafood at Atari Gastroleku

• Get to know the Basque culture at the San Telmo Museum

• Savor some pintxo with choicest wines at the many bars and eateries that dot the city

Alicante is one of the top tourist attractions in Spain. Why? Its diverse architecture, which ranges from Gothic to Moorish, its stunning beaches, and wide seaside boulevards lined with shopping plazas are irresistible attractions. Located on the beautiful Costa Blanca in southeastern Spain, the city of Alicante is also the provincial capital of its namesake province. Get lost in the narrow streets of the old quarter, sway with the crowd at a popular discotheque, or go on a shopping spree. Alicante has something for everyone.

What to see and do in Alicante:

• Go city sight-seeing aboard the Alicante Tram

• Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Castle of Santa Barbara

• Treat your eyes to the colorful buildings lining the narrow streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz old quarter

• Eat and shop your way through the coast-hugging Explanada de Espana

• Visit the museums and beautiful villages nestled in the Guadalest Valley

• Observe some local finds at the Archaeological Museum of Alicante

• Pick up some quality fresh produce from the Central Market

Foot tapping flamenco rhythm, a wide array of architectural styles, and unparalleled cuisine - what more do you need in a single destination? Located in the region of Andalusia on the banks of the Guadalquivir, Seville is a city of heavy Moorish influence in southern Spain. Majestic palaces, serene churches, and a historic city center make this city a special draw for heritage enthusiasts.

What to see and do in Seville:

• Stand in awe of the expansive Alcazar Palace

• Appreciate the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Seville

• Discover the historic center of the city

• Dine at an open-air eatery and witness the lively and bustling Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz

• Stroll around the Plaza de Espana

• Watch over the city from the Tower of Giralda

• Enjoy the flamenco dancing performances in the neighborhood of Triana

This historic settlement features near-vertical walls and sits on the edge of a deep gorge. With an equally dramatic stone bridge that complements its structure, it’s sure to give you fairy tale vibes. Located just 105 kilometers west of the city of Malaga, the village of Ronda appears to have been frozen in time. See the historic structures, explore the rustic villages, or discover the beautiful surrounding country in this idyllic destination.

What to see and do in Ronda:

• Fathom the depths of the El Tajo gorge

• Take a breathtaking view from the New Bridge

• Travel back in time at the Old City

• Visit the medieval Arab baths

• See the historic Bullring of Ronda

• Enjoy the nature at Sierra de las Nieves National Park

Aptly known as the ‘Florence of Spain’, this destination is mostly known for its superb gastronomic traditions and some amazing examples of Gothic and Moorish architecture. Located on the banks of the Ebro in northeastern Spain, the historic city of Zaragoza is the capital of the country’s Aragon region. Lively local markets, baroque churches, mouth-watering tapas, and imposing palaces make this city one of the top destinations in Spain.

What to see and do in Zaragoza:

• Stand in awe of the imposing Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar

• Appreciate the Moorish architecture of the Aljaferia Palace

• Saunter around the Plaza del Pilar

• Go souvenir hunting in the many outlets that line the city’s streets

• Have some tapas at tiny bars that line the narrow streets in the district of El Tubo

• Visit the nearby Monasterio de Piedra to enjoy some beautiful natural scenery

Want a destination that combines heritage ruins and a historic old town with spectacular offshore islands? Make a run for Vigo. Located on the Atlantic coast near the border with Portugal in northwestern Spain, Vigo is primarily an old fishing harbor with beautiful urban beaches. Take a bird-watching excursion to the island of Cíes, treat yourself to some medieval architecture in the old quarter, or just relax on the beach. The city has a lot to offer.

What to see and do in Vigo:

• Relax or have some fun at the Samil beach

• Go on a bird-watching day trip to the Cíes island

• Examine the medieval defenses of the Castro Fortress

• Revel in the delicious local seafood, especially oysters at the Calle de las Ostras

• Stroll through the city’s old district of Casco Vello

• Taste some excellent Galician wines at a furancho

Tenerife is a cultural ethos distinct from the rest of Spain. It’s home to some of the best beaches in the world along with astonishing rock formations. All of this makes it a must-see destination on your list. Located more than a thousand miles from the shores of mainland Spain off the coast of Morocco, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. This town is the place to be due to its popular sea resort, the highest peak in Spain, rock caves, and refreshing water sports.

What to see and do in Tenerife:

• Go trekking on the Mount Teide

• Have some fun at Siam Park, the best waterpark in the world

• Feed some animals at the Monkey Park

• Become familiar with the local wildlife at Las Aquilas jungle park

• Frolick at any of the seventeen Blue Flag beaches

• Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour

• Explore the caves at Cueva del Viento

• Find some fresh local produce at the Municipal Market of our Lady of Africa

Welcome to the vegetable garden of Europe and one of the best markers of the region’s Muslim past. This destination is yet another trove of history, heritage, and culture embedded in quintessential Mediterranean seaside beauty. Founded by the Caliph of Cordoba in the tenth century, the city of Almeria is located in the Andalucia region of southeast Spain. Towering palaces, historic churches, and expansive resort beaches will make Almeria an ideal Spain destination.

What to see and do in Almeria:

• Marvel at the unspoiled environs of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park

• Delve into history at the Civil War Refuge Museum

• Explore the Alcazaba Monumental Complex

• Have some fun at the Oasys MiniHollywood theme park

• Appreciate the architecture at Catedral de Almeria

• Sunbathe at the Los Genoveses beach, away from the thick crowds

• View the lighthouse at Cabo de Gata

• Pick up some fresh agricultural produce at the Central Market of Almeria

With its stunning Mediterranean countryside, Southern Spain is undoubtedly the most beautiful part of the country. One of the gems of the region is Granada, standing testimony to the region’s Moorish past. The city of Granada is located in the autonomous region of Andalusia and nestled in the serene Sierra Nevada, at the confluence of four rivers. There's plenty to do here, whether you scout the beautiful surrounding countryside or explore the city’s historical marvels - some of which are UNESCO designated world heritage sites.

What to see and do in Granada:

• Witness the royal grandeur of the palaces and gardens in Generalife

• Delve into history at the world-famous Alhambra Fort complex

• Walk the narrow cobbled streets of Albayzin, the historic Moorish quarter of the city

• Enjoy the view from the tiny white caves of Sacromonte

• Meet the Spanish royalty resting at the Royal Chapel of Granada

• Visit the many historical monasteries of the area

There's hardly anyone who hasn’t heard of the spectacular island, Ibiza. Located off the coast of eastern Spain in the Mediterranean sea, it's the largest of the country’s Balearic Islands. Ibiza is home to some of the finest beaches in Spain and, expectedly, is thronged by tourists year-round. It's also one of the top party destinations in the world, flaunting a thrilling nightlife and music scene like no other.

What to see and do in Ibiza:

• Make an excursion to the nearby Es Vedra island

• Dance away the night at Amnesia or any other renowned nightclub

• Relax and watch the sun go down at the Cala Comte beach

• Plunge into the city's history at the historic quarter of Dalt Vila

• Have some fun at the Ushuaia Ibiza beach club

Regardless of how incredible a destination is, overcrowding can ruin the travel experience for many. So we bring to you a secret place for vacation in Spain, where the crowd is not as thick - Menorca. This beautiful island in the Balearics is not as famous as its larger neighbors, like Ibiza and Majorca. However, it's no lesser when it comes to its amazing beaches. Go and indulge in some watersports, relish in the local cuisine, or see the monumental stoneworks of the primitive man.

What to see and do in Menorca:

• Walk on the fine sands at Cala Macarelleta

• Be awed by the shining white of Binibeca fishing village

• Dine at a seaside restaurant at the Mahon Port

• Explore the old quarter of Ciutadella

• Snap some selfies with the breathtaking stoneworks at the Lithica quarry park

• Hike to the top of Mount El Toro for a panoramic view of the island

Yet another praised entry from the Balearics! If you are visiting Spain even for a week, these charming islands must be on your list. Majorca, also known as Mallorca, is the most popular of the Balearic Islands after Ibiza. Majorca isn't just seaside fun; it also has architectural heritage, a vibrant nightlife, and beautiful citrus plantations. A popular summer destination for families, the island also has a cultural scene with many art galleries and music festivals.

What to see and do in Majorca:

• Stand in awe of the towering Cathedral de Mallorca

• Go clubbing in Palma, the capital of the island

• Go trekking in the Serra de Tramuntana

• Have a blast at the Katmandu Park

• Travel to the past at the historic old town of Alcudia

• Spend some leisurely time at the Alcudia beach

• Soothe your ears with the classical performance at the underground Lake Martel in the Cuevas del Drach

• Be stunned by the breathtaking natural scenery at the Mondrago Natural Park

• Visit the Almudaina Palace

A bustling economic and industrial hub, and a nerve center of the ethnic Basques - welcome to Bilbao. The largest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao is located in northern Spain on the coast of Bay of Biscay. Come and take a plunge into the local history and culture, or have some fun in the downtown city center. Plus, you will get to see remarkable specimens of modern art.

What to see and do in Bilbao:

• Appreciate some modern art and witness the architectural brilliance of Frank Gehry at the Guggenheim Museum

• Stroll through the food markets at the old quarter of Casco Viejo

• Nibble on some local delicacies at La Ribera market

• Have a drink with pintxo at the many bars and cafes at Plaza Nueva

• Frolic at the Pentzia beach

As a cultural and historic center, Málaga is a vibrant metropolis polished with a fine selection of sensational beaches. It checks all the boxes for the perfect Spain getaway. Located on the sunny Costa del Sol on the Mediterranean, Málaga is among the best places to visit in Spain. The city is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, one of the greatest masters of modern art. Beautiful palaces, art museums, expansive fortifications, and tiny bars and bistros of the old quarter make Málaga a favorite among visitors.

What to see and do in Málaga:

• Explore the nooks and corners of the Moorish Alcazaba

• Say hello to the metallic beauties at the Automobile Museum

• Attend a service at the Cathedral of Málaga

• Traverse the ramparts of Castillo de Gibralfaro

• Treat your eyes to some fabulous art at Picasso Museum

• Go shopping at La Calle Larios

• Have some tapas at a cafe in the historic center

An antique Roman settlement, modern commercial center, and one of the greatest centers of Muslim civilization in medieval times, Cordoba is a testimony to the region's checkered past. Located in southern Spain, Cordoba is the heart of the country's Andalusia region. It was a great center of learning and arts, producing geniuses like Averroes and Abbas ibn Firnas. Narrow cobbled streets of the old quarter and shiny modern buildings make Cordoba a city of exquisite contrasts.

What to see and do in Cordoba:

• Ponder the fluidity of fortunes at the grand Mosque-Cathedral

• Travel back in time at the historic quarter of the city

• See Juderia or the Jewish quarter

• Explore the sprawling Fortress of Christian Kings

• Walk across the time-tested Roman bridge

• Relax at any of the city's beautiful patios

• Visit Medina Azahara, a UNESCO world heritage site

• Drink, dine, and shop in downtown Cordoba

A port city on the Mediterranean at the mouth of the Turia, you’ll quickly learn why Valencia is one of the top vacation spots in Spain. Located in southeastern Spain, it’s the regional capital and the third-largest city in the country after Madrid and Barcelona. With a sprawling historic center and an array of modern museums, the city is home to some of the top attractions in Spain.

What to see and do in Valencia:

• See some modern wonders at the City of Arts and Sciences

• Transport yourself to the African wilderness at the Bioparc Valencia

• Pick up some groceries from the Central Market of Valencia

• Appreciate the spectacular frescoes at the Church of San Nicolas

• Visit the Gothic La Lonja de la Seda

• Get close to nature at the Albufera Natural Park

• Relax at the Jardi del Turia

Toledo is the home of the great mannerist master, El Greco, and a treasure trove of heritage structures. Located on the Tagus less than eighty kilometers southwest of Madrid, the city of Toledo is a provincial capital and a UNESCO designated world heritage site. Most of the heritage buildings within the city’s walled historic quarter are well preserved. Mosques, Synagogues, Churches, and Palaces of the old quarter will give you the impression of living in a bygone era.

What to see and do in Toledo:

• Take an all-encompassing look at the city from the Valle viewpoint

• Savor some delicious manchego at the MQM Cheese Museum

• Visit the military museum at the Alcazar

• Have a look at the pinnacle of Gothic architecture at the imposing Catedral Primada

• Cross the San Martin Bridge on foot

• Appreciate the brilliant mannerist art at Museo del Greco

• Explore the narrow streets of the historic walled city

Come and revel in the land of horses, flamenco, and sherry! Located less than a hundred kilometers south of the crowded Seville, the small town of Jerez is the perfect escape for those looking for a relatively quieter scene. See some old monuments in the old quarter, watch the gracious trot of horses, or discover the surrounding sherry country. Is the tourist in you still unsatisfied? Head to the neighboring city of Cadiz.

What to see and do in Jerez and Cadiz:

• Watch the horses dance at the Royal Andalusian Academy of Equestrian Arts

• Feel the strength of famed sherry at a local bodega

• Have fun and indulge in flamenco at Feria del Caballo

• See the Alcazar and other monuments in the old quarter

• Delve deeper into the region's history at the nearby city of Cadiz

Each year, thousands of devotees tread the Camino de Santiago to reach one of the holiest shrines of Christendom - the resting place of Saint James, the apostle. Located in the community of Galicia in northwestern Spain, Santiago de Compostela will leave you high on culture and heritage. But that's not all. The city is also home to the famed Galician wines and some excellent specimens of modern art.

What to see and do in Santiago de Compostela:

• Pay your respects to Saint James at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

• Walk the cobbled streets of the historic quarter while nibbling at some delicious Tarta de Santiago

• Stroll around the Plaza del Obradoiro

• Appreciate some modern art at the Contemporary Museum of Galicia

• See the zenith of sculpture art at Portico de la Gloria

Wondering what to see in Spain? Come and bask on warm sunny beaches, sip on quality wine, or hike down a winding trail in Costa Brava - a truly Mediterranean destination. Located in Catalonia and overlooking the Mediterranean in northeast Spain, Costa Brava is a coastal region of truly mesmerizing seaside beauty. It extends for about sixty kilometers from Blanes up to the French-Spanish border. The weather here is perfect for tourists all year round. So don't anticipate any degree of solitude here! Costa Brava is adored by many.

What to see and do in Costa Brava:

• Explore Vila Vella, or the old town

• Travel back in time at the medieval village of Pals

• Have some fun or just lay back at Calella beach

• Explore the caves or go trailing in the mountains of the area

• Familiarize yourself with Mediterranean vegetation at Marimurtra Botanical Garden

• Indulge in some night time fun at clubs in towns like Lloret de Mar along the coast

A town settlement from ancient times that’s among the most vital ports on the Mediterranean, Cartagena is one of the top destinations in Spain. Located in the region of Murcia in southeast Spain, the city abounds with architectural heritage ranging from Carthaginian and Roman to neoclassical. The city also has some attractive beaches and a throbbing nightlife. Visit Cartagena and thank us later for the recommendation!

What to see and do in Cartagena:

• Visit the Roman Theatre Museum

• Recline at the Calblanque beach

• Learn of the city's past at the Roman Forum

• Stroll on the Calle Mayor, the main street of the city

• Walk the ramparts of Bateria de Castillito

• See the Punic walls

• Get acquainted with the city's maritime expertise at the Naval Museum of Cartagena

Remember the iconic castle of Disney? Well, it was inspired by a real-life castle in the historic city of Segovia. Located northwest of Madrid, this picturesque city is deeply steeped in history and heritage. Romanesque churches, old palaces, a medieval wall, and other heritage structures make it a truly deserving UNESCO designated world heritage site. If you are a fan of history, this is one of those locations you can't afford to miss.

What to see and do in Segovia:

• Marvel at the imposing Castle of Segovia

• Be amazed by the brilliant Romanesque architecture of the Cathedral of Segovia

• Saunter around the Plaza Mayor

• Be impressed by the engineering skills of the ancient Romans at the Segovia Aqueduct

• Witness the grandeur of Granja Palace

• Explore the gardens of Granja

• Walk to the Vera Cruz Church and be stunned by its simplicity

A rugged coastline, venerated shrines, and brilliant specimens of medieval architecture greet the visitors of this popular Spain destination. Located in northwest Spain on the Bay of Biscay, the Principality of Asturia is yet another hotspot for history and architecture. The region has a mountainous setting covered with lush green vegetation. It’s a good place for those who want to see a unique landscape set apart from the standard Mediterranean one.

What to see and do in Asturias:

• Spend some time at the San Lorenzo beach

• Entertain yourself at the Laboral City of Culture

• Visit the Atlantic Botanic Garden

• Trek or take a ride to Lake Covadonga atop Picos de Europa

• Discover the beautiful surrounding country

• See the Shroud of Oviedo in the capital city of Oviedo

• Explore the caves of Agua

Known as the “heart of Andalusia”, the city of Antequera is located almost midway between the ‘big four’ in the south of Spain - Cordoba, Seville, Granada, and Malaga. Medieval Moorish architecture, spectacular rocks formations, and burials dating back to antiquity are some of the selling points of this city. Like other historical cities of Andalusia, Antequera is also a UNESCO designated world heritage site. Another great perk about Antequera? It’s the perfect place for a day trip from Malaga.

What to see and do in Antequera:

• Keep a watch on the city from the ramparts of the Alcazaba

• Stand in awe of the breathtaking rock formations at El Torcal de Antequera

• See the Dolmens or ancient burial monuments

• Taste some quality wine at the Bodega Gross Hermanos

• Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor

Located near Spain's border with Portugal, Isla Cristina is a municipality on the Atlantic coast in the province of Huelva. The city's port is quite vital and feeds quality fish to the rest of the country. There are admirable beaches here to enjoy, and of course, you too can savor their appetizing seafood. Aside from that, the municipality is famous for its animated Isla Cristina Carnaval, which is one of the oldest and most paramount carnivals in Spain. The warm weather ensures tourists visit here year-round, though it's still less crowded compared to other destinations.

What to see and do in Isla Cristina:

• Observe the local flora and fauna at the Isla Cristina Marsh Natural Park

• Participate in the carnival if you are here in time

• Have some fun at the Punta del Caiman beach

• Stroll around the city's port

• Buy fresh fish from the local market

• Share a ferry ride with locals commuting to work

Located on the rugged Costa Brava, the city of Girona lies just ninety kilometers from Barcelona in the northeastern region of Catalonia. The city's rich and diverse history can be seen in the many Roman, Moorish, and Frankish heritage structures that dot its old quarter. The modern part of the city offers multiple avenues to indulge in the niceties of twenty-first-century life.

What to see and do in Girona:

• Appreciate the tranquility of Cathedral of Girona

• Traverse the walls of the old quarter of the city

• Delve into Jewish history at the Museum of Jewish history

• Walk across the Eiffel Bridge

• Stroll around the cobbled streets of Patronat Call de Girona

• Witness some Moorish luxury at the Arab baths

Aptly known as the gateway to the Mediterranean, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory on the southern tip of the Iberian peninsula. Due to its proximity to Spain, most visitors to the country include Gibraltar on their trip. A soaring limestone formation, subterranean tunnels, and sunny beaches with powdery sands make Gibraltar one of the best places to visit near Spain. Have some fun at the beach, feed the monkeys, or indulge in some tax-free shopping - there's a lot to do here.

What to see and do in Gibraltar:

• Explore the Moorish castle on The Rock

• Trek to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar

• Discover St. Michael's Cave

• Take a panoramic look around from the cable car

• Stuff your bags with tax-free shopping

• Descend to the depths of the Great Siege Tunnels

• Stroll around the Main Street

Nestled in the beautiful Pyrenees, Andorra is a tiny sovereign state sandwiched between Spain and France. The country offers a wide range of attractions ranging from historical monuments to top-notch ski resorts. Hiking, biking, and nature tours are some of the most popular activities here. Also, the country is a tax-haven. That means you can shop as much as you like without worrying about duties.

What to see and do in Andorra:

• Explore the capital city of Andorra la Vella

• Go skiing at Grandvalira

• Visit the picturesque villages set in the hills

• See the very old San Joan de Caselles church

• Discover the beautiful surrounding hilly country

• Relax your senses at any of the many spas

• Savor some local delicacies at the many restaurants and cafe

From the lush green hills of The Basque Country to the sun-soaked Mediterranean region of Andalusia to vibrant metropolises - Spain is ready to mesmerize you. Now that we have listed the top vacation spots in Spain for you, you’re ready to pack your bags and leave town without further ado. Have we left out any popular Spain destinations? If so, please share it in the comments below.