Wondering what the best places to visit in Spain are?
Spain is a passionate and diverse country that in many ways lives up to its stereotypes but in the best possible taste!
This nation is rich in history, which is evidenced by the incredible diversity of landscapes, architecture, and culture throughout the country.
However, Spaniards, with their obsessions with good food and wine, artistic sensibilities, and sophisticated outlooks on life, are very much living in the moment.
The Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Spain
Spain is one of the top countries in Europe to visit for first time trips. To make your planning super easy, here is a list of the most beautiful place in Spain that you should see!
1. Valencia
This is the third-largest city in the country and is a must-visit for its eclectic mix of architecture.
Amidst epic Gothic and Renaissance monuments lay a mixture of elegant, Art Nouveau mansions and modern-day architectural wonders.
These very different styles have a certain harmony to them, which in turn supports the dynamic atmosphere of the city that is exuberant in that quintessential Mediterranean way.
In Valencia, you’ll find plenty of interesting museums and cultural talking points, lively nightlife, delicious cuisine, and miles of beaches.
One of the best holiday destinations in Spain, no matter what style of travel you enjoy!
2. Seville
One of the best destinations in Spain for a short city break; Seville is a city that is famous for its passionate flamenco, tapas bars, and its renowned orange groves.
It is one of the most atmospheric cities in Spain, thanks to the influence of its Moorish and traditional cultures.
Within the old town, you’ll find the spectacle of the Alcázar Palace—one of the finest examples of Mudéjar architecture to be found on the Iberian Peninsula.
Originally developed by the Moorish kings who ruled the region from the 8th to the 13th Century, the Alcázar has been expanded throughout the ages into a royal palace, and visiting it is a truly breathtaking experience.
If you are interested in Seville, you might also like to check out the top things to do in cultural Seville, or if you are ready to book your trip, then I suggest you grab your 3-day Seville itinerary here.
Another great idea is to visit Ronda. Ronda is only a 2-hour drive from Seville, so you could easily squeeze in a day trip from Seville to Ronda.
You can find loads more facts about Seville here if you are interested in learning about this fascinating city!
3. Viveiro
If you’re after beaches, a visit to the northern coast of Spain is a must. It is one of the best beach holidays in Spain and a great destination for couples and families.
The municipality of Viveiro, Galicia is the perfect base from which to explore the miles and miles of stunning beaches in the region.
There are so many that you could even visit a different one every day of your stay, yet all of them are located within an hour’s drive away.
Viveiro has a definite ‘holiday vibe’ about it; it’s a place to go to kick back and soak up the sun and atmosphere, whether alone or with friends and loved ones.
4. Barcelona
I bet it is no surprise that Barcelona made it to the list of the best places to visit in Spain for holiday.
This city is widely regarded as one of the hippest cities in Europe, the “vibrant and cosmopolitan city” of Barcelona offers an irresistible mixture of architecture, culture and laid-back beach life.
Barcelona’s pace is relaxed, thanks to its climate (which includes months of glorious sunshine) and unbeatable gastronomic scene.
The city boasts some of the most famous landmarks in Spain, including the Gothic facades of wonders like the Barcelona Cathedral and the vibrant buildings of the Modernistes, make it something of a haven for design and culture.
Further Reading:
- Best things to do in Barcelona for kids
- Best beaches in Europe for families (some of the best are located close to Barcelona!)
5. Aragón
A region west of Catalonia, Aragón is the ideal destination if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track.
Within the region, you’ll find plenty of historical wonders—such as the collections of Mudéjar art and architecture in the town of Teruel— and the region’s capital city Zaragoza, which was the hometown of renowned Spanish artist and architect Goya.
The pretty villages of Alqúezar and Albarracin are hotspots for adventure, with plenty of horse riding, biking, hiking and canyoning activities on offer.
Then there’s the astonishing Ordesa National Park, which forms part of the evocative Pyrenees and is itself a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site.
With so much natural beauty, it is easy to understand why this region has been added as one of the best places to see in Spain, which should be added to your itinerary.
I love your trip and your blog! I and I loved the experience, it has wonderful landscapes.
Thank you for the comment and your kinds words.