Making an attempt to whittle down a listing of one of the best cities in Spain to go to is one thing of an limitless process. After all, Barcelona is famend for its golden seashores and flamboyant Gaudí structure. Madrid – the county’s capital – dazzles with world-class museums. Then you will have the year-round attract of the islands’ sun-kissed sands.
But, past Spain’s most obvious metropolis breaks, there are numerous extra provincial cities value visiting. From a city-cum-beach island capital to mountain-backed aged alcázars, these lovely Spanish cities also can present a super base to discover a few of Spain’s ‘hidden gems’.
In no specific order, these are my picks of one of the best cities in Spain from my many journeys to this magnificent nation.
Seville
For an extended weekend of late nights, tradition and Islamic structure
The place and when? The southern metropolis of Seville sees temperatures soar within the peak summer time months, making it nearly unbearably scorching for sightseeing.
Andalusia’s heart-thumping, feet-stomping, and castanet-clapping capital of Seville is a metropolis of ardour. Fiery – each figuratively and actually in summer time – this can be a Spanish metropolis break you gained’t overlook.
Right here, you’ll discover your senses frequently aroused. From the sounds of flamenco and the Andalusian desk’s flavours to the architectural eye-candy and fragrance of orange bushes, Seville’s enchantment is unavoidable.
Remember to watch a Flamenco show. Go to the hulking Gothic Cathedral and climb the La Giralda tower. Calm down amongst the leafy gardens and inexperienced areas. Discover time to admire the tilework of Plaza de España and tour the Seville Museum of Superb Arts. Then, devour all of the tapas earlier than sipping beers into the early hours. The town’s student-heavy inhabitants retains the nights lengthy. Semana Santa (Holy Week) additionally ensures that Seville is among the finest European cities to go to in April.
After all, a go to to Seville wouldn’t be full with out acquainting your self with Andalusia’s historical past. This itself will deliver you to one of many metropolis’s best sights.
Closely influenced by some 5 centuries of Moorish rule, Seville’s structure exhibits typical Andalusian traits. But, being a metropolis of a lot significance, the ornament went far past whitewashed partitions. The par excellence is the Alcázar of Seville (book your tickets upfront). This huge, intricate, patio-heavy palace was initially a fortress. Sadly, a lot was destroyed following the Christian conquest and later reconstruction. Nonetheless, the Eleventh-century partitions, some reception rooms, and different elements stay preserved. Whatever the timestamps, the advanced is one among Spain’s finest locations to go to.
Cuenca
For a Madrid day journey and geological-focused hikes
The place and when? Lower than an hour from Madrid by excessive velocity prepare, Cuenca is in Castela-Mancha, and is an efficient selection anytime of yr.
Since my first go to to Cuenca, I’ve waxed lyrically about the way it’s one among Spain’s finest cities to go to. Perched upon a limestone ridge and with a historical past traced again some 1300 years, the UNESCO-listed Old Town is enchanting. Famed for its Casa Colgados – hanging homes which overhang the rock face – it’s a preferred day journey from Madrid.
Nonetheless, spending a couple of hours right here gained’t do Moorish-built Cuenca justice. From the colorful facades and chateau ruins to the cathedral’s medley of architectural kinds, town sparkles.
You possibly can even sleep in a number of the heritage buildings. Choose to in a single day within the upscale Parador, a former monastery. Or, for a extra wallet-friendly keep, choose the Seventeenth-century ex-cathedral’s choir home.
With loads of postcard-perfect views to take pleasure in, the rugged setting lends itself to exploring. Fortunately, an abundance of journey actions and nature await on Cuenca’s doorsteps. Many trails weave by way of the close by karst mountains, making certain this metropolis break delivers a slice of the nice outdoor. Significantly worthy of a go to is The Ciudad Encantada, a geological website of quirky rocky formations.
León
For an architecture-heavy weekend break served with scrumptious tapas
The place and when? León is in Spain’s northwest, and the local weather ranges from balmy summer time temperatures to generally below-freezing winter nights.
León doesn’t have big-ticket stunners like Granada’s Alhambra or Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia, but it’s nonetheless probably the most lovely cities in Spain for structure
Of the buildings that sparkle, Gaudi’s Casa Botines, the ‘Cathedral of Gentle’, and the ‘Sistine Chapel of Romanesque artwork’ shine brightest.
The primary, one among Gaudi’s solely works exterior of Catalonia, is a far cry from this typical model. For these in search of the flamboyant, chances are you’ll be disenchanted. The straight strains and considerably typical facade of the constructing appear ‘easy’, nevertheless it’s not with out its quirks.
Constructed to be a home and cloth manufacturing unit in a modernist model, the design was restricted by the proprietor’s concepts relatively than the artist’s creativeness. But, once you enterprise contained in the now museum and be part of a guided tour, they’ll level out a few of his signature whimsical inclusions.
The second, León Cathedral, is well known for its stained glass home windows. Whereas lots of the authentic installations have been been broken, those preserved (from way back to the 14th century) are spectacular.
Third up, you will have the Royal Pantheon. A part of the bigger Basilica of San Isidoro de León, the frescoes on this room has earned the Sistine-esuqe moniker.
Past the buildings, town excels at feeding you properly. There are heaps of high quality bars and eating places, and an evening out right here feels native relatively than touristy. One thing which is all the time a bonus in Europe’s historic cities. There’s additionally a good selection of heritage lodging to safe the deal, similar to this converted basílica. So, in case you’re in search of among the finest cities in Spain for structure, which retains an understated allure, León could possibly be simply the ticket.
San Sebastian (Donostia)
For a foodie feast paired with golden sands
The place and when? San Sebastian, on the Bay of Biscay, is among the finest locations to go to in Spain year-round. Summer season is right for the seaside, whereas there are sufficient sights – and meals – to entertain on a winter trip.
You possibly can’t go mistaken right here in case you’re in search of a Spain metropolis break that has all of it. Golden sands present seaside days. Hilltop trails provide the vistas. And the Parte Vieja (Previous City) delivers on tradition. Then you will have the shimmering waters and verdant mountains creating a fairly backdrop.
However, the primary motive to go to is easy: to eat.
San Sebastian is famend as among the finest cities in Spain for culinary science, and pintxos are the speciality right here. These paid-for tapas are a step up and are often piled excessive on each bar high. Usually mounted on bread, anticipate wealthy flavours of cheese, cured meats, and anchovies. But, different inventive morsels are additionally current.
Loved in a laid-back standing model, you merely pay for the variety of skewers you’ve savoured on the finish. Then, it’s time to repeat within the subsequent bar.
Gastronomy has lengthy been on the coronary heart of town. For a more in-depth encounter – and to study some abilities – enterprise to one among San Sebastian’s private underground cooking clubs. Hailing from days when residents’ properties weren’t sufficiently big for visitors, this can be a neighborhood custom. These areas, known as ‘Sociedades Gastronómicas’ or ‘Txokos’, had been as soon as very non-public. Nevertheless, lately, sure golf equipment have allowed guests by way of their inconspicuous doorways. When you’ve ventured into the basements, you’ll discover an ample, communal cooking area. Right here, a number of the metropolis’s finest cooks have refined their abilities, so that you’ll undoubtedly achieve some ideas and depart with a cheerful abdomen.
Merida
For a weekend of Roman ruins and countryside delicacies
The place and when? Set in Spain’s sun-parched Extremadura area, bordering Portugal, intention to keep away from summer time when the warmth is relentless.
Extremadura is among the least visited Spanish locations for Brits. But, the area’s capital Merida delivers a few of Spain’s best-preserved Roman sights.
The star is the well-conserved amphitheatre. Nonetheless standing proud after two thousand years, a daytime go to is unimaginable. Even higher nonetheless is to observe a night live performance right here in case your dates align.
Different unimaginable treasures are displayed contained in the Museum of Roman Artwork. This expansive area, a nationwide museum, is dwelling to an enormous assortment of mosaics and artefacts.
Equally attention-grabbing – if barely much less spectacular – are the aqueduct and Temple of Diana. Merida’s architectural wonders will transport you again in time, however don’t rush them. I’d recommend permitting your self at the least two days. To save cash, purchase the multi-attraction ticket, which covers all the important thing sights. If you happen to’re already in Seville, it’s simple to mix a trip to Extremadura with Andalusia.
Madrid
For Royals and Renaissance, world-class museums, and metropolis residing
The place and when? Within the coronary heart of the nation, Madrid is a thumping metropolis break any time of yr, and being the capital, it’s busy year-round with every day life.
Madrid is maybe one of the best metropolis in Spain to go to if you wish to see a much less touristy facet of the nation. Lengthy overshadowed by second-city Barcelona, Madrid divides those that go to into two camps.
Personally, I like it – and I definitely choose it to Barcelona. After all, there’s no denying that Barcelona is a good looking metropolis, nevertheless it’s merely simply too touristy lately – so, whereas it’s a go for the structure, I’d choose Madrid for the lived tradition.
Within the nation’s capital, you will get a very good feeling for day-to-day life in a metropolis. Certain, it might probably nonetheless be loopy busy, however extra so with locals than guests. That’s to not say there aren’t greater than sufficient sights and sights to fill an extended weekend.
The Prado Museum, the nationwide artwork museum and among the finest on this planet, has an enormous assortment of work and sculptures you would fill a day with. There’s additionally a brand new extension coming in 2024.
Then there are the Royal Palaces and museums – a brand new one is coming in 2023. Plus, you’ve received nice exterior areas, similar to spacious El Retiro Park and the Egyptian Temple of Debod. Throw in some extra glorious museums, a stadium tour of Actual Madrid FC, and straightforward day journeys, and rapidly Madrid can change into an incredible metropolis base for a Spain trip.
Oviedo
For a laid-back city-break surrounded by greenery and pre-Romanesque structure
The place and when? Set within the cooler northern area of Asturias, Oviedo is among the finest cities to go to in Spain throughout summer time.
Oviedo, the capital of the Asturias area, is also referred to as the capital of cider, or sidra, in Spanish. This area is well known for its orchards, and city-dwellers love swigging the domestically fermented apple juice. So, observe their lead and head to one of many Chigre(cider houses in Asturias) across the metropolis.
In these bars, the uncarbonated alcoholic drink is expertly poured from excessive by an escanciador. This model of pour helps add air to the beverage. For one of the best pairing, order a collection of the area’s cheese – they’ve greater than 40 varieties.
After getting your fill, you possibly can hit the sights of this spotless metropolis. From the tremendous artwork within the Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias to the archaeological museum, there’s sufficient to entertain.
Oviedo can also be celebrated for its statues, of which there are numerous dotting town. From busts and bums, to notable figures, the sculptures present one thing of a strolling tour.
On town limits – heading in direction of inexperienced mountains – you’ll discover a few of Oviedo’s World Heritage-listed websites. These pre-Romanesque church buildings are nonetheless standing proud, telling an over 1000-year-old story. If you wish to escape to the seaside, that’s simply accomplished, with the coastal metropolis of Gijón a brief hop away. Oviedo is a fairly and peaceable metropolis break – though you’ll need to maintain an ear out for the Gaita asturiana. On the weekends, strolling bands enjoying this native sort of bagpipe usually add a soundtrack to town.
Santiago de Compostela
For a hallowed finish to an extended pilgrimage
The place and when? Santiago de Compostela is within the northern area of Galicia, famend for its rains exterior of summer time.
For greater than 1000 years, weary ft which have adopted the Camino de Santiago have discovered their exhausted finale right here. Serving as the ultimate level on the pilgrimage, Santiago de Compostela has change into well-known worldwide. For that motive, it’s usually thought-about probably the most essential cities in Spain.
In recent times, nonetheless, the Camino has seen a new-found appreciation. Now not is the route traversed solely by these wishing to pay respects to Saint James the Apostle, nevertheless it has additionally been commandeered by non-religious walkers in search of calming surroundings and area for ideas. This, and town’s 100,000-strong inhabitants, ensures it isn’t all concerning the cathedral as a metropolis break.
Nonetheless, the opulent and iconic constructing is undoubtedly Santiago’s crown jewel. Inside as as spectacular because the facade, because of the museum, crypt and climbable tower. Simply anticipate there to be loads of individuals, and don’t overlook to safe tickets in advance (entry to only the cathedral is free).
Away from the hoards of hikers, you’ll discover a relaxed mixture of craft beer bars and Galician eating places. Pulpo a la Gallega (boiled octopus) is a staple, and the almond-based Tarta de Santiago makes for an honest dessert. There’s additionally a handful of museums – each sacred and art-focused – and loads of photogenic corners within the Medieval core. Certain, it’s not someplace you come for a celebration. However, even in case you’re not paying your respects, you’ll discover a nice place, good as a base to discover Galicia’s lush lands.
Córdoba
For a triple-hit of UNESCO World Heritage Websites
The place and when? Córdoba is among the finest cities in Spain to go to throughout Spring or Autumn. It’s infamous as one of many hottest cities on the peninsula, and summer time is just not nice for exploring within the mid-day solar.
Córdoba, not even the primary or second metropolis of Andalusia, manages to boast a powerful resume. The town was dwelling to at least 4 UNESCO listings – fairly an achievement for someplace that isn’t on each must-visit Europe listing. Sadly for tally counters, UNESCO lately bundled two collectively, technically lowering the depend again to a few.
It’s not solely the titles that impress, although. No, it’s additionally the sun-bleached ambiance, the scrumptious chilly soups, and the structure is magnificent from all angles. There’s additionally an air of slumber that you would be able to take pleasure in exterior the core, whereas late-night antics are additionally simply hunted out.
However, again to these heritage listings. First up, we’ve the Mosque-Cathedral, one among Spain’s finest monuments. Initially constructed within the mid-Eighth century as a mosque, it was spared the destiny of many Islamic buildings in Spain. Following the Christian re-conquest, it was as an alternative transformed right into a cathedral within the Thirteenth century.
This preservation has created one of many world’s most original – and most vital – homes of worship. Arched pillars divide the area into isles; marble performs a starring position, and a towering belfry has changed the previous minaret.
The second designation went to the Historic Quarter, which has now been rolled in with the Mosque-Cathedral. The third is the Caliphate Metropolis of Medina Azahara, on town’s fringes. A powerful archaeological website, right here you’ll discover the stays of a nearly-forgotten metropolis courting again to the Umayyad occasions. It’s a outstanding splendour attributable to its superior improvement for the tenth century. I’ve expanded on the fourth accolade, for the Pageant of the Patios, in my Spain hidden gems article. However actually, sufficient mentioned already – Cordoba is a winner.
Bilbao
For Basque tradition, delicacies in and Fashionable Artwork
The place and when? Bilbao is a superb metropolis break yr spherical. Though, in case you plan to hit up the seashores close by, late spring to early Autumn is your best option.
Having shaken off its barely rough-around-the-edges industrial previous – and as an alternative, embraced it as a UNESCO City of Design – Bilbao has change into a beloved Spain metropolis break prior to now many years.
A lot of that change might be accredited to the Guggenheim Museum. Whereas the spectacular and futuristic design reworked the cityscape, the fashionable and up to date artwork collections inside pushed Bilbao ahead. Twenty-five years after the primary exhibition, town has ceaselessly modified, turning into one thing of a cultural hub.
This new lease of life has been greater than capitalised on, with a flurry of cultural choices. Now, Bilbao is commonly celebrated in journals and analysis for its extra equal society. Fortunately, nonetheless, it retains its Basque (and old-Bilbao) soul.
Like neighbouring San Sebastian, the eating scene right here is great. The area’s signature tapas, pintxos, are a go-to, and fine-dining and stylish bars at the moment are aplenty. You’ll additionally discover extra inexpensive choices right here than within the culinary-famed sister metropolis.
Begin your day rambling the river and admiring Guggenheim’s futuristic structure. Slip into the Ribera marketplace for a chew, then delve into Azkuna Zentroa’s cultural programme. Amble amongst the alleys of the Casco Viejo (Medieval Quarter). Then, wrap up the day feasting on Basque specialities. Cod, fish stews and Txakoli, the native glowing wine, are all the time a good suggestion. Settle in for a feast, this is among the high cities in Spain for high quality and fairly-priced grub.
Palma de Mallorca
For an island break with each tradition and coasts
The place and when? Spring by way of Autumn are nice occasions to go to the island. As Palma is a big metropolis, and doesn’t shut through the winter like resort cities, it’s additionally a very good winter solar spot.
Palma, the capital of Mallorca, is commonly neglected as one among Spain’s finest cities to go to. It’s comprehensible; the Balearic Islands are higher identified for seashores than metropolis breaks.
But, Palma de Mallorca gives one of the best of each worlds. There’s sufficient tradition and cosmopolitan stylish away from the sands, whereas the Mediterranean waters are all the time there once you fancy a dip. It is likely to be among the finest cities in Spain for a summer time vacation, nevertheless it can be a standalone metropolis break.
There’s a compelling eating scene and first-class nightlife. In contrast to standard Magaluf additional alongside the coast, town has primarily swayed away from revelry. As a substitute, Palma’s mixologists and cooks have targeting cocktail bars and culinary creativity.
Then you will have the primary course; the heritage and tradition lining the net of streets within the oldest a part of town. Most spectacular is Palma Cathedral, which towers above the city. The non secular masterpiece, well-endowed with Gothic grandeur, took practically 400 years to assemble. Different notable sights embody the Royal Palace and the intriguingly-round Castell de Bellver. Artwork can also be properly represented in Mallorca, particularly the works of Balearic creatives. The very best collections are on show at Es Baluard and Fundació Miró.
Salamanca
For a student-heavy get together and loads of Artwork Deco
The place and when? Located in Castile and León, Salamanca is reached from Madrid in lower than two hours by high-speed prepare. Come within the time period time to witness town most alive.
Dwelling to one of many oldest universities on this planet – the fourth by opening date in Europe – Salamanca wears its historic significance with understated satisfaction.
Strolling these illustrious streets, flanked by town’s signature warm-sandstone buildings, a way of knowledge will devour you. From the pink calligraphy that decorates the grand buildings to the greenery and parks alongside the river, taking all of it in is a straightforward pleasure.
On the coronary heart of all of it is the huge and vibrant Baroque Plaza Mayor, celebrated as one among Spain’s most spectacular. At evening, issues actually come alive. Tables spill out from candlelit eating places, dinner might be loved with views from the higher ranges, and kids play within the centre.
By day, there’s sufficient to entertain. Whether or not you’re touring the 2 cathedrals, venturing contained in the college, or marvelling on the Casa de las Conchas – uniquely embellished with shell shapes – structure is a standard theme. Of town’s museums, Casa Lis is my favorite. Housing an thrilling array of Artwork Deco works behind its stained glass facade, it’s a deal with.
In some way, Salamanca stays much less visited than a lot of Spain’s extra well-known cities. And that, in case you ask me, is difficult to fathom.
Valencia
For a medley of the futuristic, conventional, up to date and basic
The place and when? With a primarily heat local weather, and many to do on wet days, Valencia is among the finest cities in Spain year-round.
Spain’s third largest metropolis has loads to supply, however there are three primary causes to go to. Firstly, Paella, the area’s notorious dish. No journey is full with no obligatory heaped skillet of seasoned rice. For a greater understanding, Paella cooking classes are in no quick provide.
Secondly, there’s Valencia’s Previous City, the place you’ll discover medieval Spain as you already know it. Petty plazas present good people-watching. A plethora of panorama-boasting towers guarantees photogenic angles. And loads of non secular structure completes the image. Highlights embody the Thirteenth-century Cathedral and the Artwork Nouveau Central Market.
Valencia’s most well-known storied sight, although, is the La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Alternate). The grand UNESCO-listed building tells of a time when Valencia was a global powerhouse within the silk commerce. Admire the spectacular webbed-ceiling corridor, stroll the orange-scented courtyard, and climb the tower.
Thirdly, you will have town’s forward-thinking facet, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Dwelling to museums, a cinema, up to date gardens and an aquarium, the advanced focuses on the humanities and science. Even with out venturing inside an exhibit, the fashionable structure is certain to impress. Carry your digital camera; Valencia appears good from all angles.
Granada
For the endless tapas and the unimaginable Alhambra
The place and when? Granada is among the finest locations to go to in Spain exterior of summer time. Within the hottest months of the yr, it’s just too scorching to be sightseeing all day. Winter, nonetheless, might be fairly chilly – although, it’s an ideal time in case you additionally need to ski within the Serra Nevada.
Overflowing tables of tapas, sun-drenched days and sometimes snow-capped mountains, probably the most spectacular monuments of Islamic structure in Spain – or certainly the world – and an environment that’s each laid-back and spirited. Sure, Granada is fingers down one of many Spain’s finest cities; no two methods about it.
Having spent a couple of months residing in Granada to study Spanish, it’s one of many Spanish cities I’m most acquainted with. Nonetheless, even after that prolonged interval, a day doesn’t go by the place I don’t yearn to admire The Alhambra from afar once more.
For many guests, it’s this magnificent Thirteenth-century fortress from the times of Moorish rule that attracts them to Granada. Generally, simply as a day journey from Seville. However I promise you this; solely a day right here won’t ever be sufficient.
Even in case you’re solely coming for The Alhambra, a powerful medley of ornate Islamic structure, courtyards, and embellished partitions, permitting an hour or two to tour the inside won’t ever do it justice. To understand Granada, and certainly The Alhambra, you want to permit your self time.
Time to discover each nook, from the palaces to Generalife. Time to slowly mooch across the intensive gardens. Time to search out all one of the best viewpoints of the constructing from afar. Time to take in the golden-hour vitality of this magical metropolis. And time to devour each final morsel of tapas put in entrance of you.
You see, in Granada, Tapas is an age-old custom. In contrast to another cities in Spain, the place menus and costs are offered, right here it comes because it was initially meant – free and as an accompaniment to your tipple of selection. Some nights I might simply order beers, and even earlier than that late-night meal time rolled round – after 9 pm is normal right here – I’d be stuffed.
Different metropolis highlights embody the Cathedral, the Hammam, the previous gipsy neighbourhood of Sacromonte, and, in fact, flamenco.
If you happen to’re heading to The Alhambra, e-book tickets upfront. If you happen to don’t get them earlier than they promote out, look to book a tour, as they usually have a couple of pre-purchased ticket areas left.
Girona
For a Barcelona facet journey and Europe’s best-preserved Jewish quarter
The place and when? North of Barcelona, Girona is a dependable year-round metropolis break – though winter night’s could be a little chilly.
Girona is maybe finest identified within the UK instead Barcelona funds airport and a gateway to the seashores of the Costa Brava. If you happen to’re prepared to present it greater than a fleeting look from the aeroplane window, although, you’ll discover an inviting medieval labyrinth and probably the most lovely cities in Spain.
Taking centre stage lately as a Sport of Thrones filming location the storied streets of Catalonia’s second metropolis are the place to be. Stroll atop town’s partitions for spectacular views. Marvel on the Arab Baths. And indulge your super-fan standing on Girona Cathedral’s stairs or a GOT walking tours.
Whereas a contemporary city sprawl envelops the historic centre, the Previous City will take you to bygone days. The Jewish Quarter – El Name – specifically, is of nice significance. You’ll discover a genuinely Center Ages ambiance amongst these slender streets, thought-about the best-preserved Jewish Quarter in Iberia.
Málaga
For a coastal break with a cosmopolitan vibe
The place and when? On Spain’s southern coast, Málaga is a scorcher in summer time. That climate, although, ensures Málaga is among the finest locations to go to in Spain year-round.
For a lot of Brits, Málaga is a primary gateway to the sun-kissed sands of the Costa del Sol. However, whereas making a beeline to the seaside is rarely a foul concept, it’s additionally value spending a while in one among Spain’s most alluring cities.
Cosmopolitan and cultural, Andalusia’s second most populous metropolis packs a punch. Whether or not you’re wandering museums and galleries, admiring structure from the Moorish rule, or chowing down on contemporary seafood, you’ll discover town’s allure buried beneath the less-appealing skyline.
Historic highlights embody the well-preserved Alcazaba of Malaga, a Moorish fortification advanced fronted by a Roman theatre, and the solo-towered cathedral.
You’ll additionally discover greater than 30 museums dotted throughout Malaga, with artwork and archaeology each represented. Because the birthplace of Picasso, it’s no shock one of many metropolis’s main galleries is devoted to his works. Different notable areas value a peek at are the avant-garde assortment within the Pompidou Centre and the Museo del Património Municipal. Contained in the MUPAM you’ll uncover Malaga’s historical past, from the Phoenicians to the current.
Barcelona
For flamboyant structure, golden sands, and late-night events
The place and when? Barcelona, on Spain’s northeastern Catalan shoreline, makes a stable year-round selection for a crowded metropolis break. Nevertheless, for barely much less depth, are available winter. Save that summer time seaside vacation for elsewhere.
Barcelona wants no introduction; this is among the world’s most well-known metropolis breaks and probably the most visited of all of the cities in Spain. After all, Gaudí may be very a lot one of many primary causes travellers firmly positioned Barcelona on the map. Whether or not you’re gawking on the La Sagrada Familia, admiring the whimsical facade of Casa Batllo, or strolling by way of vibrant Park Güell, you’re by no means removed from one among his inventive designs.
Nonetheless, he isn’t the one one that has left a design mark on town. With a Gothic Quarter courting again round 2,000 years dotted with elegant and imposing non secular buildings and cute corners, and plenty of extra barrios (neighbourhoods) to discover, you’ll by no means expertise the entire metropolis has to supply in only a weekend.
With loads of sun-kissed days to lounge on the city seaside of Barceloneta, all the time a crowd to jostle by way of on the primary thoroughfare, La Rambla, and a forever-evolving eating scene, you possibly can see why travellers flock of their hundreds of thousands yearly. In 2019, pre-pandemic, that quantity reached some 20 million vacationers – so be ready for the crowds.
Wish to dive even deeper into this magnificent and star-studded nation past Spain’s most well-known locations? Uncover my favorite secret Spain spots for extra adventures barely ‘off the crushed path’.
