Best Places to Visit in Spain

If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best places to visit in Spain, you’re in for a treat. Spain packs world-class art, dreamy beaches, lively tapas bars, and charming villages into one relatively small country. I still remember my first evening in Barcelona, wandering from the Gothic Quarter to the beach with a gelato in hand — that mix of history, style, and relaxed energy is classic Spain.

Why Spain should be on your travel list

Spain has something for everyone: city culture in Madrid and Barcelona, Moorish history in Granada, sun-soaked beaches along Costa Brava and Costa del Sol, and dramatic hiking in the Pyrenees. Whether you’re chasing architecture, food, or a peaceful seaside, the best places to visit in Spain offer incredible variety and easy train or short-flight connections.

Top destinations to add to your itinerary

1. Barcelona — art, beaches, and Gaudí

Barcelona is famous for Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, but it’s also a beach city with lively neighborhoods like El Born and the Gothic Quarter. Walk the Ramblas early in the morning to avoid crowds, and save time for tapas and vermouth. If you want official travel info while planning, check out Spain’s official tourism site for events and practical tips.

2. Madrid — museums and lively plazas

Spain’s capital is an arts lover’s dream. The Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen museums are clustered fairly closely. At night, Madrid becomes a social playground — plazas, late dinners, and rooftop bars. It’s a great hub to start or finish a multi-city trip.

3. Seville — flamenco and orange trees

Seville is the heart of Andalusia: think narrow lanes, the majestic Plaza de España, and flamenco shows that give you goosebumps. Try a morning walk through the Alcázar gardens, then linger over slow tapas in the Santa Cruz neighborhood.

4. Granada — the Alhambra and mountain views

The Alhambra is a must-see for its intricate Moorish palaces and gardens. Book Alhambra tickets well in advance — it’s one of those places where planning pays off. Pair a visit with a stroll through the Albaicín for stunning views over the city.

5. Valencia — paella and modern architecture

Valencia mixes historic charm with striking contemporary structures at the City of Arts and Sciences. It’s the birthplace of paella, and the nearby beaches are a quieter alternative to Barcelona’s bustle.

6. The Balearic and Canary Islands — island escapes

For beach lovers, the Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria) offer dramatic coastlines, clear waters, and a range of vibes — from quiet coves to lively nightlife.

7. Northern Spain — Basque Country and Galicia

If you prefer green landscapes and seafood, head north. San Sebastián is famed for pintxos and beautiful beaches, while Galicia’s coastline feels wilder and more remote. The Pilgrims’ route, the Camino de Santiago, also attracts those seeking both scenery and reflection.

Practical tips before you go

Here are a few things I wish I’d known before my first trip:

• Book popular attractions (like the Alhambra and Sagrada Familia) in advance.
• Trains are efficient — consider the AVE high-speed trains for Madrid-Barcelona or Madrid-Seville hops.
• Spain eats late. Dinner often starts after 9pm, so plan for long afternoons and late nights.
• Learn a few basic Spanish phrases — people appreciate the effort, and it enriches the experience.

Best time to visit

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) usually offer the best weather: warm but not scorching, and fewer tourists than midsummer. If you’re after beaches, July and August are peak season.

Sample 7-day itinerary

Here’s a friendly, realistic plan that mixes big cities and local flavor:

1. Days 1–2: Barcelona — Gaudí, Gothic Quarter, beach stroll.
2. Days 3–4: Madrid — museums, Retiro Park, evening tapas crawl.
3. Days 5–7: Andalusia (Seville and Granada) — flamenco, Alcázar, Alhambra.

This is flexible — swap in Valencia or San Sebastián if you prefer beaches or northern cuisine.

Money, safety, and local customs

Spain is generally safe for tourists, but common-sense precautions apply. Keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas, especially on public transport. Cash is handy for small tapas bars, but most places accept cards. Tipping isn’t mandatory — leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Further reading and travel resources

If you’re collecting resources, I like to bookmark a mix of official and local sites. For official travel guidance, see Spain’s official tourism site. For general planning tips, check out our internal travel tips page to help with packing, insurance, and local etiquette.

Final thoughts

The best places to visit in Spain will depend on your taste: art lovers will linger longer in Madrid and Barcelona, foodies will savor San Sebastián and Valencia, and beach seekers will head to the islands or the southern coast. Wherever you go, take time for small pleasures — an afternoon café con leche, a slow tapas dinner, or a sunset over ancient stone. Those are the moments that stick with you.

Ready to start planning? Pick the few places that excite you most, leave room for detours, and enjoy the pace — Spain is best experienced with a curious heart and a relaxed itinerary.