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Top Spain attraction, Alhambra fortress Granada

Best Things to Do in Spain

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Spain

Once a dominant world power that conquered much of the Americas, Spain is now of one of the leaders in world tourism. Blessed with abundant sunshine, world-class art and architecture, and wonderful food, beaches, and scenery, this seductive nation offers something for everyone -- from hiking in the Pyrenees and swimming in the Mediterranean to dining on paella and relaxing in a seaside sidewalk cafe (or all four). It may well have the most diverse set of attractions in all of Europe -- and Stride can help you sort through it all.

Top Spain Experiences

Viewing Antonio Gaudi’s fanciful and enormously ambitious church of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, still a work in progress almost 90 years after the architect’s death.

Swimming in the warm waters of the Mediterranean sea off one of Spain’s alluring islands of Mallorca, Ibiza or Formentera.

Staring, amazed, at the detailed tile work in Granada’s 14th-century Moorish palace, the Alhambra.

Staying in a parador, one of the government inns converted from former castles, monasteries, and other atmospheric buildings.

Making the rounds of the tapas bars in Madrid, downing a complimentary olive there, a slice of roasted potato there, and perhaps splurging on a grilled prawn or two.

Throwing tomatoes at strangers in Valencia’s famous La Tomatina, a 40,000-person tomato fight held each August.

Admiring the Old Masters in Madrid’s Prado Museum and Picasso’s masterwork Guernica in the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia.

Taking in a flamenco show at a club in Seville where you know the dancing is authentic.

Joining the pre-dinner crowds along Las Ramblas in Barcelona as they enjoy their evening paseo, while passing chic sidewalk cafes and lively street entertainers.

Marveling at the formal gardens and fountains in Seville’s Royal Alcazar Palace.

Spending an art-filled day in Toledo, home of the painter El Greco and a medieval masterpiece of a city.

Walking at least part of the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain, an ages-old, now newly popular pilgrimage route.

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Things to do in Spain - Expert’s guide

1. The Alhambra

Alhambra architecture in Spain

One of the must see sites in Spain is a jaw dropping fortress in Granada, one of the few remaining islamic monuments in Spain. As a part of the UNESCO world heritage site, a visit to the Alhambra is a quintessential cultural experience to learn deeper about Spain’s Moorish history through the intricate islamic architecture, marble fountains, colorful Arabic tiles and more.

This stunning and historic site has more than 6,000 visitors everyday, so if you plan on taking a trip to see it, we would advise buying a ticket online as soon as possible. The Alhambra is enormous, so we also recommend spending at least a full day exploring it to truly get the full, immersive experience.

2. La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia Cathedral interior with brightly colored stained glass, Spain

La Sagrada Familia is a landmark that absolutely cannot be missed when you visit Barcelona. Beautiful, tall and mosaic-like, the catholic church is one of the most extravagant and artistic buildings ever created, made by the famous Antoni Gaudi who worked on this piece for 40 years until his death.

Also an UNESCO world heritage site, visiting this beautiful church is a very cultural experience as you can expect to see many catholic stone structures, carvings and statues.

Due to its religious and artistic nature, a guided tour can help you understand all the nuances and significance of the iconography. Considering its popularity, it's a good idea to find a Spain tour to visit La Sagrada Familia - your  guide will be able to secure entry to this popular site! TIP: try to visit during sunset to see a spectacular kaleidoscope of golden light through the stained windows.

3. Mezquita

Great Mosque in Spain

The Great Mosque is the gem of Cordoba and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. This is another muslim heritage site but is currently a working Roman Catholic church with long hours dedicated to tourism.

It stands as one of the top attractions in Andalucia with notable beauty such as the incredible ribbed domes and the polychromy of red and white bricks arched on the ceilings that make you feel like you might have traveled back in time. Be sure to note that tickets are only available onsight and admission is free in the early mornings!

4. The Canary Islands

Sunset on the Canary Islands in Spain

This is one of those destinations with surreal views of nature that would be a shame to miss. The dramatic volcanic landscape mixed with the spread of pristine beaches is something hard to beat.

The Canary Islands are sunny all year round with activities that range from water sports to hiking to discovering natural pools and finding a treasure trove of sea life that would make your Spain tour the most memorable yet. An honorable mention is the island of La Palma, a UNESCO biosphere reserve for its wealth of rainforests and volcanic scenery.

5. Balearic Islands

Balearic Islands sunset in Spain

The Balearic Islands caters to every type of explorer out there, which is why it remains for years as one of the top places to visit in Spain. Comprised of four main islands, from largest to smallest, is Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

Each island boasts completely unique styles from each other, from the party scene of ibiza to the relaxed and hippy atmosphere of Formentera, from the historic and cosmopolitan vibe of Mallorca to the serene and simplicity of Menorca.

Make sure you know what kind of vacation you want before choosing the island you stay in! It is also important to note that locals do not speak spanish but rather Catalan and other smaller dialects.

6. The Spanish Pyrenees

Spanish Pyrenees mountains

The Pyrenees, tucked away in the countryside, is a adventurer’s dream and quickly becoming the most popular hotspot for travelers that love to be immersed in complete and utter stoicness of nature’s beauty.

Whether it is paddling through the deep turquoise Congost de Mont-Rebei Gorge, exploring the ancient villages in the Pyrenees foothills or fishing in over 50 different mountain lakes and 14 different rivers, a visit to the Pyrenees (only a 4 hour drive from Barcelona) is one of those gems that many visitors miss in the midst of exploring city life.

7. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Bridget en route to the Santiago de Compestela

There are many reasons thousands of tourist fly across the world to see the Cathedral of Galicia. The stunning gothic, roman Catholic Church is an architecture site worth the travel, and is the last destination of the Camino de Santiago, a famous pilgrimage that is both exciting, resonating, and emotional.

The experience of the cathedral could take a few hours as it is one of the most intricate buildings in the country and does demand your full attention. Also be sure to explore the old town of Santiago de Compostela, a compact town rich with history and culture. Unlike many spots in Spain, this one is not sunny year round and the best time to visit is July to catch the Feast of Santiago with a spectacular firework show.

8. La Concha Beach

La Concha beach in San Sebastian spain

Although Spain is home to a lot of gorgeous beaches, La Concha is one of Spain’s most beautiful. It is one of the top tourist spots in San Sebastian and the most scenic as it is enveloped carefully amongst mountains that protect the beach from strong winds and high waves. Come here to surf, paddle, sail or walk across the white sand promenade for one of the best travel experiences if you’re looking to relax, eat delicious seafood and sunbathe.

It is important to note that this city has a huge foodie scene, and to miss out on trying the pintxos bars (their region’s tapas) or michelin star restaurants would be missing out on a huge part of the travel experience in San Sebastian. 

9. Plaza Mayor

Palace in Madrid Spain

Plaza Mayor isn’t known as the most famous square of Madrid for nothing. Explore the market, stores, cobbled streets and cafes around the Plaza. From the Plaza you can also do a bunch of things that showcase Madrid’s beauty, such as walking a minute towards el Mercado de San Miguel for a spread of traditional tapas and drinks, explore el Calle Cava Baja, one of the coolest and bustling streets of Spain or Madrid Palace and its many manicured gardens.

10. The White Towns of Andalusia

White town in Andalusia Spain

Los Pueblos Blancos, translated as "The White Towns", are one of the Spanish gems found off the beaten path. After taking in all the touristy cities and monuments that Spain offers, the white towns give a refreshing contrast of relaxation, antiquiness and simplicity. The quaint, hilltop houses are unique in their white washed color and represent a Moorish remnants of north african influences in Spain.

Here there are beaches, villages, cave dwellings, prehistoric caves and much more to explore, making this perhaps the best place to visit in the Andalusia region. You can drive from Seville to the white towns, or you can be part of the many tour groups that Andalusia offers.


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Spain Tours Reviews & Ratings

Write a review
Excellent
894
Great
228
Average
61
Disappointing
17
Terrible
15
David
·
2024-03-25
Written on
Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes
Good itinerary, quite compact, minimising travel but getting to see plenty of fun things. Rene was a great guide and accommodation good.
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Peter
·
2024-03-25
Written on
Highlights of Andalucia
So many things but it was really down to the tour leader Craig whose excellent local knowledge really made this a special experience.
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Stuart
·
2024-03-25
Written on
Central American Highlights
Brenda Roberts
·
2024-03-24
Written on
Amazing Spain and Portugal
We spent more time traveling between locations than I realized when I looked at the itinerary.
Trusted Customer
·
2024-03-23
Written on
Central American Highlights
Catherine
·
2024-03-19
Written on
Central American Highlights
Overall a fantastic tour, particularly Nicaragua, El Salvador, Copan and Antigua. Would be 5 stars, but the Costa Rica section of the tour doesn't quite work at the moment. Other than that a great tour though, and Miguel was a fantastic tour leader. Would recommend
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US  N (< 90 days) Visas to Spain for United States Citizens
UK  N (< 90 days) Visas to Spain for United Kingdom Citizens
CA  N (< 90 days) Visas to Spain for Canadian Citizens
AU  N (< 90 days) Visas to Spain for Australian Citizens
NZ  N (< 90 days) Visas to Spain for New Zealand Citizens
IN  Y Visas to Spain for Indian Citizens

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