places to visit in spain landmarks

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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20 Famous Landmarks in Spain You Must Visit

From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the majestic grandeur of the Alhambra, Spain’s iconic landmarks awaken a profound sense of wonder. Be them the remnants of the country’s tumultuous past or awe-inspiring natural landscapes, prepare to be swept away by these famous landmarks in Spain, many of which have been granted a UNESCO World Heritage status.

Famous buildings & historical landmarks in Spain

Spain has a wealth of famous landmarks, monuments, and buildings. From recently built futuristic-looking museums to Roman ruins over two thousand years old, no trip to Spain would be complete without checking out at least some of these spectacular Spanish landmarks.

Royal Palace, Madrid

Madrid’s Royal Palace is the  largest royal palace in Western Europe  and one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.

The palace is  the official residence of the Spanish royal family in Madrid and is used for state functions and receptions. Yet, these days, the Spanish royal family lives in the much smaller Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of the city.

The Royal Palace is open to the public daily, with very few exceptions – such as Christmas and New Year’s – and is the highlight of any  Madrid itinerary .

Out of the 3,418 rooms , several lavishly decorated ones – such as the Throne Room, the Hall of Columns, King Charles III Chambers, the Royal Armoury, and the Royal Library – can be visited.

The present-day baroque palace replaced the old Moorish Alcazar that was destroyed by a fire in 1734. The fire lasted four days and resulted in many works of art being lost forever.

Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Casa Batlló is  the most recognizable residential building of Antoni Gaudí , the famous Catalan architect who littered the streets of Barcelona with landmarks.

The house is a remodel of a previously built house that Gaudí redesigned in 1904 for the textile magnate Josep Batlló. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside other of Gaudí’s works and an unmissable stop on any  Barcelona itinerary .

The mind-blowing design in  Modernista style (Spanish Art Nouveau) with organic shapes is heavily influenced by nature.

From the street level, the two elements that catch the eye are the colorful broken tile mosaic covering the facade and the large windows and balconies that seem to have been framed with bones.

Casa Batlló truly comes to life during the self-guided visit . This combines artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and machine learning to offer what they call a 10D fully immersive experience that goes way beyond the wavy walls and the arched, dragon-like rooftop.

City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

The City of Arts and Sciences ( Ciudad de Las Artes y Ciencias ) is  a complex of six buildings  designed by Valencian architect  Santiago Calatrava .

This famous Spanish landmark was inaugurated in 1998 with the opening of L’Hemisfèric, a futuristic-looking IMAX Cinema, and planetarium.

Soon, other buildings followed, such as El Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe (an interactive science museum), L’Umbracle (an open structure that harbors a garden and a nightclub), L’Oceanogràfic (the largest aquarium in Europe), Palau de Les Arts Reina Sofía (an opera house), L’Àgora (a covered plaza for concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions) and two bridges.

The City of Arts and Sciences is  one of the most Instagrammable places in Spain  and a great spot for watching the sunset. It is one of the  best places to visit in Valencia , plus wandering around is completely free. Entry to the buildings, however, is subject to a fee.

Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

The stunning-looking Guggenheim Museum is  one of the most recognizable landmarks in Spain  and for good reason. Designed by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry and inaugurated in 1997, the museum has an instant wow factor.

Guggenheim Museum was built alongside the Nervion River, in an industrial city in decline. Once the project was complete,  the museum alone was such a huge driver of economic uplift, that the phenomenon received the name of the “ Bilbao effect “ . The city became a symbol of gentrification.

The glittering titanium museum is one of the largest in Spain and features modern and contemporary artworks by Spanish and international artists, with a predilection for large-scale installations.

Among the most famous works is a giant bronze spider by Louise Bourgeois and a 12-meter tall stainless steel West Highland terrier covered in vegetation by Jeff Koons.

Alhambra, Granada

Alhambra is  the most famous landmark in Spain  with over 6,000 people visiting it daily. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and  the best-preserved medieval citadel of Moorish origins in the world .

Building works began during the 13th century when this part of Andalucia was still under Moorish occupation. After the Spanish Reconquista concluded in 1492, it became the Royal Court of the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella.

The monumental complex situated on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Granada features the palaces of the Moorish governors of Al-Andalus (the name given by the Moors to the Iberian peninsula), the Alcazaba fortress, patios, public baths, watch towers, and a palace built by Charles V in the early 16th century.

Right behind the Alhambra walls is the Generalife , a summer palace complete with orchards and landscaped gardens. Admission tickets usually include access to both Alhambra and Generalife.

Royal Alcazar, Seville

The Royal Alcazar is the oldest royal palace in Europe still in use and one of the  best places to visit in Seville . It was built in the second half of the 14th century, on the site of a Moorish Alcazar, and  the upper floors are still used by the Spanish royal family when visiting Seville .

The Alcazar is  one of the finest examples of the Mudejar style  (a reinterpretation of European architectural styles by adding Muslim influences) and a super-famous landmark in Spain, receiving over 2 million visitors per year.

The Royal Alcazar was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was  a Game of Thrones filming location . One of the more prominent features of the palace is the vast array of tiles and plasterwork motifs covering the walls.

Among the highlights of any visit are the gold-foiled dome of the Ambassador’s Hall, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Grotto Gallery, and the extensive gardens.

El Escorial, San Lorenzo de El Escorial

El Escorial is  a vast building complex that includes a monastery, a palace, a seminary, a library, and the pantheon of Spanish kings . It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited landmarks in Spain.

This stunning monument was built between 1563 and 1584 by order of King Philip II and it is  the largest and most homogenous Renaissance building in the world . It is located in the heart of Sierra Guadarrama and is one of the most  popular day trips from Madrid .

The library alone is reason enough to visit – it hosts a great number of books, maps, terrestrial globes, and mathematical instruments and has an impressive vaulted ceiling covered in frescoes depicting the seven arts.

Another major attraction is the royal pantheon where all the Spanish kings and queen mothers of heirs to the throne for the past nearly 500 years are buried (with a couple of exceptions).

Roman Theater, Mérida

The Roman Theatre of Mérida is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the Roman colony of Iulia Augusta Emerita, the capital of Lusitania. Lusitania was one of the three provinces in which Emperor Augustus divided Hispania (the name given by the Romans to the Iberian peninsula).

The theatre together with its adjacent amphitheater was built on the slope of a hill by Agrippa, Emperor Augustus’ son-in-law, in the years 16 to 15 BC and is one of the most unique landmarks in Spain .

This ancient theater is  one of the largest archeological sites in the country , with a capacity of six thousand people. It was constructed following the principles laid out by Vitruvius in his mid-first century BC treatise on architecture.

A curious thing is that until a little over a century ago most of the theatre was covered with earth and only the tops of the bleacher seats could be seen. The excavation works began in 1910 and by 1933 the first  Mérida Classical Theatre Festival, the oldest festival of its kind in Spain , was held.

Roman Aqueduct, Segovia

The Roman Aqueduct of Segovia is  one of the best-preserved elevated Roman aqueducts in the world  and another captivating Spanish landmark you cannot miss.

The year it was built is not entirely clear. It is believed it was constructed at the order of Emperors Domitian, Trajan, or Hadrian, which places the date of completion somewhere around the year 100 AD (give or take 10 years).

The aqueduct supplied the city with water from the Frío River until 1884 . As it crosses some 15 km (9 miles) of the countryside, the lower arches constantly change height adapting to the contours of the landscape.

An interesting thing about this monumental structure is that  no mortar was used , instead, the solid blocks of stone were closely fit together.

These days, parts of the aqueduct can be seen throughout Segovia, with the most noteworthy section being in Plaza del Azoguejo where the aqueduct stands at its highest (close to 29 meters tall).

Cave of Altamira, Cantabria

Altamira is  the first place in the world where Palaeolithic cave art was identified  back in 1879. It’s one of the few caves with polychrome paintings in the world and it has been dubbed the Sistine Chapel of Prehistory. The first person to spot the paintings was an 8-year-old girl.

Altamira was also a unique discovery because the 14,000 years old Palaeolithic masterpieces are in a magnificent state of conservation due to the cave having been blocked by a landslide for 13,000 years. Besides the famous black, red, and ochre animal drawings , you can see engravings, abstract drawings, and anthropomorphic figures.

I pondered a lot if I should place Altamira under natural landmarks or historical landmarks in Spain. In the end, I decided to place it under the latest because the main attraction of Altamira is the manmade cave paintings.

Also, the original cave has been closed to visitors since 2002 for conservation reasons. An exact replica of the cave was built which is visited by 250,000 people each year.  Only five people are allowed to visit the original cave each week.

Best religious landmarks in Spain

The Catholic Church established its presence in the Iberian Peninsula in 587. In 711 the Moors conquered a large part of present-day Spain, resulting in a tumultuous period known as Reconquista that lasted 780 years. The presence of these two major religions resulted in the building of many landmarks in Spain, from mosques to sky-reaching cathedrals.

Mosque-Cathedral, Cordoba

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, also known as Mezquita, is one of the most stunning buildings in the world and a vivid testimony of the two main cultures that have shaped the southern region of Spain over the centuries.

An unusual thing about this extraordinary monument is that  it blends a Muslim Mosque and a Christian Cathedral under the same roof . The Mosque was once the heart of Al-Andalus, back in the Middle Ages when Cordoba used to be the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Europe.

As the building was repeatedly enlarged, different architectural styles, from Umayyad and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque were used, leading to a hybrid structure with strange and unexpected traits.

The most outstanding and iconic part of this remarkable landmark is the vast main hall with its forest of  850 double-arched columns with red and white stripes . The building also has an orange tree courtyard, a minaret, and a prayer hall.

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Sagrada Familia is  one of the best-known religious landmarks in Spain . Designed by famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, construction work began in 1882 and is  expected to be finished by 2026 , when the centenary of Gaudí’s death is celebrated (although the COVID pandemic might see this date delayed). 

In 2005, UNESCO included Sagrada Familia, next to several other buildings designed by Gaudí. In 2010, the Pope proclaimed Sagrada Familia a minor basilica. And in 2019, the city of Barcelona officially granted it a construction permit, over 130 years after Gaudí applied for one.

As  one of the most famous buildings in Spain , Sagrada Familia stands out due to its 18 ornately sculpted towers, a facade that looks like a supersized drip sandcastle, and an unprecedented blend of Gothic and Modernist architectural elements.

Once completed, this will be the tallest religious structure in Europe . Gaudí himself is buried in the crypt inside. Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous places in Spain. It is visited by over 10,000 people each day, so getting your fast-track tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Burgos

Better known as the Cathedral of Burgos, this is one of the most extraordinary religious buildings in Spain. Construction began in 1221 and was officially completed in 1567, although additions continued to be made until the 18th century when the last major works were performed.

Built mainly in Gothic style, with some Renaissance and Baroque elements, this is  the only cathedral in Spain that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right .

The interior hosts many lavishly decorated chapels complete with gorgeous paintings and sculptures, a mausoleum, and  a magnificent golden staircase . Adjacent to the cathedral, there is a beautiful cloister with a rib-vaulted ceiling and closed in with glass.

One of the major yet surprising attractions inside the cathedral, enjoyed by both adults and kids alike, is  the colorful statue of Papamoscas , a curious automaton that opens and closes its mouth when the bells ring on the hour.

Cathedral, Santiago de Compostela

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most important religious landmarks in Spain.  It houses the tomb of Saint James , the apostle who brought Christianity to the Iberian Peninsula, and has been one of the main pilgrimage destinations in Europe ever since the Middle Ages. 

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the cathedral has four façades, including the impressive baroque Obradoiro façade built during the first half of the 18th century, the most recognizable symbol of the city.

The visit takes you around the main nave, the cathedral’s museum, the library, and the rooftop, and you can even climb to the top of the towers. The beautiful cathedral cloister on the second floor was built during the 16th century and is one of the largest in Spain.

In the cloister, you will find the original Berenguela bell (that fell from the Clock Tower and cracked) and the  tomb of Antonio Lopez Ferreiro , the man who in the late 19th century discovered the remains of Saint James hidden behind the main altar since 1589 when Sir Francis Drake threatened the Galician coast.

Breathtaking natural landmarks in Spain

Spain is famous for its fine sand beaches and 8,000 km of coastline. But did you know that Spain is also the most mountainous country in Europe, after Switzerland? This translates into countless natural landmarks, making Spain an even more attractive country to visit. Some of these are fantastic bucket list-worthy experiences as well.

Playa de la Concha, San Sebastian

Playa de la Concha is one of the most easily recognizable natural landmarks in Spain . It’s a gorgeous beach in the form of a shell that has been repeatedly named  the best urban beach in Spain and even Europe .

This beach was made famous by Queen Isabel II back in 1845 after her doctors recommended bathing in the sea as a treatment for her skin condition. Soon, the rest of the court followed, together with the high society of the time, transforming San Sebastian into an elegant city with sophisticated beachside mansions.

Playa de la Concha is  1,300 meters long, with fine golden sands and tranquil waters . It is flanked by Mount Urgull on one side and Mount Igueldo on the other, making it ideal for water sports, fishing, and spectacular boat rides.

For an unforgettable experience,  take the funicular up Monte Igueldo to enjoy the beautiful vistas at sunset . Or better yet, stay at Mercure Monte Igueldo Hotel and wake up with the best views in the city.

Drach Caves, Mallorca

Las Cuevas del Drach is a spectacular cave system on the eastern coast of Mallorca, made of four large interconnected caves , over 1,200 meters long.

This absolutely stunning natural Spanish landmark is  best known for its fascinating formation and series of underground lakes , the largest of which is 117 meters long and up to 30 meters wide (one of the largest underground lakes in the world!).

As you walk the winding path, there are plenty of opportunities to admire forests of intriguingly colored stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. The cave is exceptionally lit which only enhances the already breathtaking experience.

The visit lasts approximately one hour. A 10-minute  live classical music concert  performed by a quartet of talented musicians is included in the ticket. The concert is followed by a light show and a  boat ride  on Lake Martel.

Teide National Park, Tenerife

Teide National Park is by far the most visited national park in Spain . Its  otherworldly landscape  with huge rivers of petrified lava is unique in the world and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Situated in the middle of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands,  Teide is the tallest mountain in Spain , standing at 3,715 meters above sea level. It’s  one of the best places in the world for watching the stars  and booking a stargazing experience with an expert astronomer guide is highly recommended.

The park has an extensive network of trails.  You can take the cable car to 3,555 meters above sea level , then follow the easier routes to La Fortaleza or Pico Viejo vantage point. If you want to access Mt Teide’s crater, you’ll need to get a permit (usually months in advance) or join a hiking tour that includes permits, hotel pick-up, etc.

This impressive natural landmark of Spain has dozens of endemic plant species as well as birds, insects, and reptiles. However, the park’s only native mammal is the bat.

Picos de Europa National Park, northern Spain

The first national park of Spain , Picos de Europa comprises three dramatic limestone massifs with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, extensive forests, lush meadows, and beautiful lakes.

Picos de Europa spreads across Asturias, Cantabria, and León provinces in northern Spain and offers some of the  most spectacular mountain scenery and hiking routes in the country .

It is said these peaks received their name for being the first sign of land sailors were seeing when returning from the Americas . Among the highlights are the Fuente Dé viewpoint, the mythical Cares River Route, the Ordiales Scenic Balcony Trail, and the Covadonga Lakes.

These days, Picos de Europa is  the second-largest and the third-most visited national park in Spain  and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve . It’s also one of the best Spanish landmarks for canyoning, kayaking, caving, and mountain climbing.

Playa de las Catedrales, Galicia

Spain has many beautiful beaches, but few are as spectacular as Playa de las Catedrales (literally the Beach of the Cathedrals), a natural area in Galicia reminiscent of the Twelve Apostles in Australia.

Playa de las Catedrales is  one of the most impressive natural wonders of Spain . It features an array of unique rock formations, such as 30-meter-tall arches, columns, and large chambers that resemble a cathedral paved with sand.

These intriguing rock formations have been forged by the erosion of water and wind over hundreds of years and the beach has been declared a natural monument.

A magnificent example of the raw power of nature,  this beach can only be visited at low tide . During certain times of the year, visits to this unique landmark are limited, and booking your free spot in advance is required. Alternatively, you can book a last-minute guided tour.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Aragón

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and  one of Spain’s most unique natural landmarks . Situated in the Pyrenees, it consists of  the highest limestone massif in Europe  and the four valleys that embrace it.

The altitude throughout the park range from 750 to 3,355 meters, resulting in an incredibly diverse landscape , dotted with gorges, meadows, glaciers, waterfalls, and a unique karstic landscape.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park has  19 different hiking routes  of different levels of difficulty, which makes it the ideal summer destination for Spaniards eager to escape the heat.

The park is home to interesting species such as chamois, deer, marmots, bearded vultures, and griffon vultures. The pine, oak, and beech tree forests look especially pretty in autumn when the leaves change color and the whole area becomes a leaf peeper’s dream .

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30+ Famous Landmarks in Spain, for Your Spanish Bucket List

Planning a trip to Spain and need some destination inspiration? To help you along, here’s my guide to the 30 most famous landmarks in Spain.

Spain is a gorgeous country. It boasts a heady mix of diverse landscapes, world famous landmarks, massive cathedrals and iconic museums.

From Barcelona’s patron saint Antoni Gaudi to Frank Gehry to Madrid’s Golden Triangle, we’ll travel through Spain soaking up culture along the way.

Many of these must see Spanish landmarks are UNESCO World Heritages sites. They could be mini-vacations in and of themselves.

These landmarks can be used to help plan road trips destinations through Andalusia , central Spain, or northern S pain .

READ : Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain

The Most Famous Landmarks In Spain

Here are my picks for the 30+ must visit landmarks in Spain to tick off your Spanish bucket list.

1. Alhambra, Granada

The Alhambra is probably the most famous landmark in Spain. It’s the world’s last and greatest Moorish fortress.

The Alhambra is one of the most visited sites in Spain, and even in the world. The orange toned Alhambra sits on a stunning piece of real estate – a high, mountainous location on Sabika Hill with sweeping views over Granada .

Alhambra became a UNESCO site in 1984. It’s a deeply affecting place. It’s so beautiful and enchanting, it’s difficult to process. Or to unglue your camera from your face.

The complex is Spain’s most beautiful monument. It’s vast. There are four must see sites: the Nasrid Palace, Charle V’s Palace, the Alcazaba, and the Generalife Gardens.

The Nasrid Palace is the finest example of the refined, intricate, and elegant architectural style of the Moorish civilization. Every inch of its rooms are decorated, top to bottom, with ceramic tiles, elaborate plaster work, calligraphy, filigreed windows, and stucco stalactite ceilings.

The Nasrid sultans didn’t limit themselves to building within Alhambra’s ramparts. Just beyond the walls lie the Generalife Gardens , one of the best preserved Nasrid estates.

Generalife was the lush leisure villa of the last dynasty of Moorish sultans. They spent their summers here to escape the intense heat. Generalife is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful formal gardens.

Here’s my comprehensive guide to visiting the Alhambra . Here’s my guide to the best things to do and see in Granada .

Tickets sell out lightening fast for the Alhambra. You can buy a  skip the line ticket on Get Your Guide  or a  ticket on Viator . You may want to book a 2.5 hour small group guided tour or a 3 ho ur private tour , which also include skip the line tickets.

2. Casa Battlo, Barcelona

Antoni Gaudí ‘s Modernist masterpieces, now museums, are among Barcelona’s must see and most visited sites. To many Catalonians, Barcelona is Gaudí. Or at least he’s the city’s unofficial saint.

Casa Batlló is Gaudí at his hallucinatory, dreamlike best. The building is a must see site in beautiful Barcelona, especially if you love Modernist architecture or are on the Gaudí trail in Barcelona .

For Casa Batlló, Gaudí conjured a building in the image of a dragon. The strange bone-like facade commands your attention.

It’s studded with skull mask balconies and capped by a sinuously scaled roof with a solitary sword-like tower.

At Casa Batlló, the entire facade is a kaleidoscope of blue, mauve, and green tiles. A marine-like surface. Though it’s a bit hard to see, the facade’s actually uneven and slightly wavy, like a calm sea.

Casa Batlló’s interior is filled with beautiful tiles, curved wood, and stained glass — all in organic forms and curvy shapes. The motif is an undersea grotto lit by skylights shaped like tortoise shells. The ceiling droops and swerves poetically.

If you need more Gaudi, here are my other Gaudi guides: Gaudi architecture in Barcelona , Casa Mila , Casa Vicens , Casa Calvet and El Capricho .

If you want to visit Casa Battlo, click  here  to purchase a (very necessary) skip the line ticket. Click  here  to book a 2 hour guide tour + skip the line ticket.

3. La Pedrera | Casa Mila, Barcelona

One of my very favorite Barcelona sites is the intriguing Casa Milà. Or, as it’s more commonly known, La Pedrera, which translates to “The Quarry.”

It’s a masterpiece of nature. In classic Gaudí fashion, the nature theme is visible in its overall look and down to the tiniest detail. Everything carried forward the theme.

The building ripples and waves like a burbling ocean. There’s not a right angle or straight line anywhere. Gaudí wanted it to resemble a “petrified wave.” To that end, he used contrasting elements — a heavy stolid stone facade and a wavy shape.

The undulating facade isn’t a load bearing wall. It’s a self supporting curtain wall that connects to the internal structure of each floor via curved iron beams.

This gave Gaudí freedom to create irregular floor plans. It was one of his cutting edge architectural innovations.

Inside, the tiled entrance courtyard resembles an underwater forest. From the courtyard, look up for an incredible views.

Light pours in from the roof to the interior apartments. Unlike the dough-ish color of the exterior, inside it’s a marine wonderland with sea foam ceilings.

La Pedrera’s iconic rooftop is astounding, far superior to Casa Batllo. It has winding pathways and a spiky forest of 30 chimneys.

The chimneys are dubbed the “Garden of Warriors.” They resemble storm troopers from the Star Wars movies. You also have a nice view of Sagrada Familia from the roof.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to La Pedrera . Click  here  to purchase a skip the line ticket for La Pedrera. In the evenings, a  spectacular audiovisual show  takes place on the terrace. 

4. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain and the crowning jewel of Barcelona. Gaudí’s wildly creative opus. Construction began on the “Sandcastle Cathedral” in 1882.

This famous landmark in Spain is still unfinished (but ongoing). When it’s completed, Sagrada Familia will be the world’s largest church with 18 tapering towers.

The exterior appears like a strange looking sandstone mountain. It’s a hodgepodge of architectural styles with spindly towers of various heights.

There are three facades –the Nativity, Passion, and Glory facades. Each appear like huge altarpieces, depicting different themes.

But the interior is entirely sublime. Gaudi intended it to be a retreat into nature. And, indeed, you could be standing in a majestic star-lit white forest. It’s an astonishing space, an alternative reality full of detail. You’ll gasp when you enter.

Be prepared to crane your neck skyward at the starry ceiling. The ceiling and stained glass are absolutely mesmerizing. You can’t help but be slack jawed.

The interior is effectively a spiritual sculpture, reinvented as architecture. The nave has shimmering gold tiles on the floor. It’s lined with 36 pale columns in different heights and widths. The columns form a forest, branching out like trees.

For more information on this must see monument, here’s my complete guide to visiting Sagrada Familia .

READ : 40+ Landmarks in Barcelona

Entry is timed, and tickets sell out quickly. You will definitely want to  buy your ticket online in advance .

If you decide to visit, you may want to book a guided tour. There are several options you can choose from.

• a  1.5 hour ski p the line guided tou r
• a  2  hour skip the lin e guided tour
• a  2 hou r skip the l in e private tour
• a  3 hour skip the line private tour
• a  1.5 hour guided tour with tower access

5. Park Guell, Barcelona

Park Güell might be Gaudí’s most fantastical creation. It’s a 45 acre public park and garden complex located on Carmel Hill in Barcelona. It’s a little wonderland and must visit landmark in Spain.

Initially, Eusebi Güell asked Gaudí to design a mini city with luxury homes. Gaudí worked on the project from 1900-14. But the plan backfired; it was a commercial flop. Only 4 of the planned 60 houses were built.

Before the plug was pulled, Gaudí had created a plaza, two Hansel and Gretel gatehouses, a serpentine bench, colonnaded walkways, and steps.

He actually purchased one of the homes and lived there for almost 20 years before he moved into Sagrada Família.

The most famous icon at the Park Güell is the multicolored mosaic lizard known as “El Drac,” or the dragon. Gaudí collaborated with Joseph Maria Jujol, a much younger architect, on the tile work.

Most of the park is free to visit and provides some nice views over the city. But the central Monumental Zone has a fee.

Most of the Park Guell is free to visit and you’ll have some nice views over the city. But you’ll need a  ticket  to access the central Monumental Zone and a ticket for the Gaudi House Museum .

6. Palau de la Musica Catalana, Barcelona

Palau de la Música Catalana is a gaudy rose-covered wonderland and must see site in Barcelona. This magnificent concert hall was designed in 1905-08 by Lluis Domènech i Montaner — an architect who was just as famous as Gaudi at the time.

You have to see it to believe it. Musicians love its acoustics. Tourists love its unique design. It’s a veritable symphony of stained glass, mosaics, sculptures.

Palau de la Musica is located along a claustrophobic, densely packed street in the Gothic Quarter. Montaner countered the claustrophobia with color and levity.

The arches and intricate mosaic columns draw your eye up to the roofline. Stained glass windows bring in the natural light.

You begin at the marble Lluís Millet Grand Staircase, named after a famous Catalan composer. As you as ascend, gaze up at the eye catching ceramic glazed ceiling. You’ll enter a waiting area, the Lluís Millet Hall.

The hall is enveloped in massive stained glass windows. Parts of the panels are clear so you can see the dramatic mosaic columns outside by Sala Millet.

The auditorium is almost overwhelming. The piece de resistance is the intricate stained glass ceiling by Antoni Rigalt. Iron and glass chandeliers create a starry night effect.

Sculptures curve up the sides of the stage. You’ll see a glowering Beethoven and Valkeries from Richard Wagner’s operas.

READ : Hidden Gems in Barcelona

If you’d like to visit, click  here  to pre-book a ticket to Palau de la Musica. Click  here  to book a 1 hour guided tour.

7. Royal Palace | Palacio Real, Madrid

Completed in 1751, the Royal Palace Madrid is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. It’s Europe’s third largest palace, after Versailles and Schonbrunn .

The Bourbon dynasty built the palace in an Italianate Baroque style. It served as the supersized royal residence until 1931. Of its 2800 rooms, only 50 are open to visitors.

The highlights of this landmark palace in Spain are the opulent Throne Room, the Gala Dining Room (seating thousands), the Royal Armory, the apartments of Carlos II, and the Gasparini Room. Each room reflects a different historic period and decorative style.

The palace is also renowned for its painted frescos and the stunning artwork. Inside, you’ll find paintings by many artistic luminaries — Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio . There are also plenty of incredible tapestries, beautiful stuccoed ceilings, and lavish chandeliers.

To visit, you can choose either a  skip the line guided tour  or an  unguided timed entry slot .  

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid

8. Plaza Mayor, Madrid

The 17th century Plaza Mayor is the beating heart of Madrid . This lively square was once an open air theater hosting festivals, markets, bullfights, royal promenades, and the excesses of the Spanish Inquisition.

As you sit in one of the alfresco cafes in the center of Plaza Mayor, you can easily imagine these historical events.

Present day entertainment is more tranquil, though still as busy. Local artists paint pictures of bullfights, people queue up for food samples, and there’s a myriad of craft shops filled with visitors souvenir hunting.

The iconic square features symmetrical three story burgundy colored buildings, which are now expensive private apartments. In the center of the Plaza, there’s a statue of King Phillip III astride his mighty stallion.

If you happen to be in Madrid on a Sunday morning, you’ll find a bustling stamp and coin collector’s market.

9. Golden Triangle, Madrid

Madrid’s Golden Triangle is a triad of three absolutely world class art museums — the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza.

The Prado is special. It’s Spain’s cultural jewel, boasting one of Europe’s finest and most sensuous painting collections. The Prado is a must visit landmark in Spain for art lovers.

The Prado opened in 1819 as the Royal Museum of Paintings. Its artistic anchors are Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, and Peter Paul Rubens. But there are also masterpieces by Titian, Bosch, and El Greco.

I’ve written previously about the highlights of the Prado and tips and tricks for visiting, so won’t repeat myself here.

If you’d like to visit, you can book a skip the line ticket . You can also book a skip the line guided tour .

But be sure to see the Hieronymus Bosch’ The Garden of Earthly Delights triptych, the Black Paintings of Francisco Goya ( The Dog is my favorite), Diego Velasquez’s Las Meninas , the newly restored Fra Angelico Annunciation , and José de Ribera’s intriguing The Bearded Woman .

Opened in 1992, the Reina Sofia is Madrid’s fantastic modern art museum. Its collection is comprised entirely of art work from 1900 to the present.

There’s a special focus on Spain’s favorite sons, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali , and their respective schools of Cubism and Surrealism. The iconic star of the Reina Sofia is Guernica , Picasso’s grim depiction of the Nazi bombing of Guernica Spain in 1937.

The Reina Sofia is also a great place to get weird with Surrealist Salvador Dalì. Head to the Sabatini Building, 3rd Floor. Dalì’s quirky paintings reveal his obsessions, sexual fetishes, and terrors.

Click  h e re  to book a skip the line ticket for the Reina Sofia. Art lovers should consider a  guided tour  of the magnificent museum.

Housed in the Villahermosa Palace, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is named after art collector Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza. Opened in 1994, the Thyssen museum offers something for everyone.

The museum mixes contemporary and classic art. It houses art works from every major period in Western art, from 13th century Italian Renaissance to 20th century Pop Art.

It also has an important collection of 19th century American paintings not found elsewhere in Europe. This is where you’ll find some fan favorites — Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, German Expressionists, and Surrealists.

You’ll find artists like Dürer, Caravaggio, Rubens, Sargent, Monet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Kirchner, Mondrian, Klee, and Hopper.

You can book a skip the line ticket for the museum or a skip the line guided tour .

10. Altamira Caves, Cantabria Region

Just over a mile from the enchanting town of Santillana del Mar in northern Spain lies the 14,000 year old cave paintings of animals in the Altamira Caves.

This UNESCO-listed landmark in Spain is home to some of the best prehistoric rock art in the world.

The paintings were created during the Upper Paleolithic period. The well preserved charcoal and polychrome paintings depict a herd of now-extinct steppe bison, as well as deer, wild boar, and horses.

Access is strictly limited to small private tours. But there’s an exact replica of the caves in the Altamira Museum cave.

>>> Click here to book a tour of the cave museum

READ : One Week Itinerary for Northern Spain

11. Royal Alcazar, Seville

The Royal Alcázar is one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. It’s a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colors.

The alcazar is a breathtaking 10th century palace that King Pedro the Cruel gave a 14th century Mudéjar facelift.

Inside, the highlights are the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Courtyard of the Dolls, and the Hall of Tapestries in the Gothic Palace.

The Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, is the big showstopper in this stunning Spanish landmark. It’s nicknamed the “Half Orange” Room, in honor of its gilded cedar domed ceiling.

Outside, there’s a series of verdant lush gardens. They are an exotic, labyrinthian paradise, encompassing 80% of the Alcázar grounds.

Don’t miss the Baths of Maria De Padilla, King Pedro’s mistress. The baths are one of the Alcazar’s Game of Thrones filming locations , a place where the Sand Snakes plot.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the magnificent Royal Alcazar . It’s my favorite place in all of southern Spain.

You absolutely must  pre-book tickets  for the alcazar in advance, or you’ll waste time stuck in a long line. The Alcazar is also well worth booking a  guided tour  to see the complex.

12. Seville Cathedral, Seville

Seville Cathedral is a massive Gothic affair. It’s the largest cathedral in the world.

In 1402, after vanquishing the Moors in the Reconquista, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella began work in earnest on a Gothic style cathedral. They wanted a showy display of Seville’s wealth, power, and influence.

There are 15 doors on the cathedral’s four facades and each one features a unique relief or carving. The nave is the longest in the world.

The glittering altar is elaborately detailed and finished in gold leaf. Along the sides, there are 80 chapels to explore.

You’ll find spires and reliefs depicting biblical events dedicated to saints. There’s a large mirror reflecting the intricate ceiling, which you’ll have to queue up to look into.

The Cathedral also houses the tomb of the explorer Christopher Columbus. Many places lay claim to bits and pieces of Columbus.

But apparently DNA tests have confirmed that a bit of him is in Seville, maybe a shin bone or something.

13. Plaza Espana, Seville

The Plaza de España is one of the famous architectural landmarks in Seville Spain. It stands out in a city already overflowing with beautiful architecture.

It was built for the Ibero-American World Fair of 1929, where Spanish speaking countries enjoyed a year long mutual admiration festival. The park’s highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, the sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings.

Designed in an Art Deco style with some Moorish touches, the Plaza has the expected Spanish flair — lots of color and lavish embellishment. The tiles show historical scenes and maps from the 49 provinces of Spain arranged in alphabetical order.

There’s nothing to actually do here except check out the architecture, the alcoves, and the tiles. The plaza has been featured in the movies Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars Attack of the Clones.

READ : 3 Day Itinerary for Seville

14. Alcazar de Segovia, Segovia

Segovia makes the perfect easy day trip from Madrid. It’s crowning glory is its medieval castle, the Alcazar of Segovia .

Built atop a rock with pointy slate spires, the alcazar looks like a castle conjured from a medieval fairytale. Alfonso VIII lived in the fortress in the 12th century before architectural changes transformed it into a Gothic castle in the 13th century.

On a visit, you take a one way route through 11 rooms, including a wonderful terrace view. The Mudejar ceilings are exquisite and fully restored. The Hall of Monarchs is lined with busts of the 52 rulers of Castile and Leon.

Then, climb the 156 steps up a tight spiral staircase. From the Tower of John II, you’ll have 360 views of the city of Segovia.

In 1764, Charles II founded the Royal College of Artillery. You can also visit the Artillery Museum today. 

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the alcazar

15. Segovia Aqueduct, Segovia

The Aqueduct of Segovia is the city’s emblem. The aqueduct is one of the most amazing ancient landmarks in Spain.

It’s the best preserved example of Roman civic architecture in Spain. The aqueduct is described by the historian Frontinus as “the most solemn testimony of the Empire.”

Dating from approximately the 2nd century AD, it’s a tour de force of Roman engineering that stood the test of time. The aqueduct is over 200 years old.

It consists of 167 arches supported by pillars stretching 2500 feet. It’s made of 20,000 granite blocks with no mortar holding them together.

It was a functioning aqueduct into the 20th century. Now, it’s in a lively square of Segovia, part of everyday life. On Plaza de Azoguejo, a grand stairway leads from the base to the top.

In its shadows, sits a replica of the She Wolf of Rome, a statue found in the Capitoline Museums in Rome .

>>> Click here to book a day trip to Segovia from Madrid

16. City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

Spain is both old and startlingly modern. In Valencia, you’ll find Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava’s stunning suite of contemporary buildings known as the City of Arts and Sciences .

This landmark complex in Spain is a futuristic cluster of museums and art halls. There’s also an aquarium designed by another Spaniard, Félix Candela, which was used as a film set for Dr Who and Tomorrowland . 

L’Oceanografic resembles a water lily and is Europe’s largest aquarium. It’s home to over 500 species of marine life from across the world.

The Principe Felipe Science Museum has interactive displays and demonstrations of scientific theories. The Hemisferic Cinema, with its spherical roof, is the venue for 3D shows. 

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the Oceanografic

17. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela

The UNESCO-listed Cathedral Santiago de Compostela stands guard in the Plaza do Obradoiro square, where all roads in Santiago converge. This hallowed Galician landmark in Spain is the final stop on the mystical pilgrims’ journey. 

Built in the Romanesque architectural style, construction started in 1075 during the reign of Alfonso VI. Over the years, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements were added to the structure.  

The Cathedral’s facade is the work of Fernando de Casas y Novoa. It’s a splendid examples of Spanish Baroque design. 

Atop the middle steeple, St. James the apostle stands on a column to welcome pilgrims to his burial place. The Portico of Glory at the main entrance used to be the cathedral’s main facade. It displays 200 figurines from the Old and New Testament.

Inside, a darkened Romanesque nave gives way to a large gold altar with three representations of St. James. Pick up an audio guide because there’s not much English signage.

If you want to visit, you can book a skip the line ticket + tour of this famous landmark in Spain.

18. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Who can argue with Bilbao’s emblematic Guggenheim Museum ?

Inaugurated in 1997, Frank Gehry’s twisting shimmering museum is the star of underrated Bilbao , a city in the Basque region of northern Spain .

The space age landmark in Spain, an ode to post-industrial optimism, itself is dramatic.

Both inside and out, the Guggenheim is an awe-inspiring blend of titanium, glass, and limestone. The scaly exterior evokes a silvery fish and the building’s wings the wind-filled sails of a ship.

Outside the museum lie some of its most interesting pieces of art, including: Jeff Koon’s 42 foot beflowered Puppy, Louise Bourgeois’ 30 foot Maman spider, Anish Kapoor’s Tall Tree and the Eye, and the newest piece Fujiko Nakaya’s The Fog Sculpture.

On the inside, the architecture continues to amaze. There’s a glass enclosed 50 meter atrium with a floral skylight. Light suffuses the place.

The Guggenheim’s modern art collection is on par with Europe’s best modern art museums. You’ll find works by Robert Motherwell, Yves Klein, Andy Warhol, Eduardo Chillada, and Anselm Kiefer.

You can book a skip the line guided tour of the museum. Or, check out this guided walking tour of Bilbao that includes a visit to the Guggenheim.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Bilbao

19. New Bridge, Ronda

Ronda is the third most visited town in Andalusia , after Seville and Granada . And there’s a a reason — it’s dramatic. Ronda is perched on a mountainous gash carved by the Río Guadalevín.

Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo. It’s one of Spain’s most famous landmarks. The New Bridge connects the Old Town and the New Town over the El Tajo gorge.

Built over 34 years, the New Bridge is 216 feet long and 322 feet high. Thick vertical supports rise up from the canyon walls.

A chamber in the central arch features an exhibit on the history of the bridge. Hike to the bottom of the gorge for great views.

You can book a guided walking tour in Ronda that includes the bridge and another landmark in Spain, the Ronda bullring.

20. Mosque-Cathedral | Mezquita, Cordoba

Dating from the 10th century, Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral, locally called the Mezquita, is a truly magnificent UNESCO site.

It’s one of the world’s most well- preserved Islamic buildings in the world and best known landmark in Spain.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted the Mezquita into a cathedral.

It’s a a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed in southern Spain. Outside, a large courtyard (you can enter for free) welcomes you.

Inside, the Mezquita is vast — an eye catching forest of candy cane horseshoe arches. 800 red and blue granite columns are topped with double arches of alternating red brick and white stone.

Highlights of the Mezquita are the Mihrab (or high altar in a mosque), the Visigoth mosaics and ruins, the Royal Chapel, and the central golden altar.

Newly restored, the Christian altar makes it easy to forget you’re in a former mosque. The mosque also has a bell tower, which you can climb for dramatic views.

If you’d like to visit the Mezquita, you can book a skip the line ticket or a skip the line guided tour .

21. Plaza Mayor, Salamanca

Salamanca is a historic city in western Spain brimming with charm and beautiful architecture.

Its centerpiece, Plaza Mayor, is the ultimate Spanish plaza, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It’s connected to Salamanca Cathedral by the Rua Mayor.

The gold toned plaza is lined with symmetrical Spanish-Baroque architecture. The Town Hall overlooks the proceedings.

The Arco del Toro leads to a covered market. The plaza honors cultural and heroes and conquistadors — Cervantes, Christopher Columbus, as well as kings and rulers.

Plaza Mayor is known as Salamanca’s “living room.” It’s full of cafes, shops, and restaurants. Students and others munch on jamon Iberico baguettes and sip wine. There’s often performances or parties. It’s beautifully lit up at night.

>>> Click here to book a walking tour of Salamanca

22. Burgos Cathedral

The town of Burgos, in northern Spain, is rightfully famous for its UNESCO-listed Burgos Cathedral.

It’s said that the entire history of Gothic art is reflected in the cathedral’s architecture and impressive collection of altars, choir stalls, chapels, and ornate decoration. The craftsmanship is exquisite.

Building began in 1221. The cathedral was embellished over the centuries, ending with a distinctly French style, from early Gothic to flamboyant Gothic. Except for the very top of the spires, the facade is very similar to Notre Dame in Paris.

Its most magnificent feature is the ornately decorated 13th century tympanum above the Door of the Sacramental.

Be sure to stop in at the Chapel of the High Constable (beautifully lit with a skylight), the Chapel of St. John (with frescos), the Chapel of the Presentation (with a famous painting by Il Piombo), and Chapel of St. Anne (spectacular altar).

Another highlight of this elegant cathedral is the Golden Staircase, Escalera Dorada. It was designed by a student of Michelangelo. You can’t access the stairway. But you can admire the elaborate wrought iron railing with angels heads.

23. UNESCO Dolmens, Antequera

Lying in sunny Andalusia , the white pueblo town of Antequera is a pretty hidden gem. One of Antequera’s most intriguing landmarks is its ancient megaliths.

This landmark in Spain was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. The megaliths, or dolmens, are definitely an under appreciated UNESCO site, perhaps because it’s so new.

Antequera’s Bronze Age dolmens are among the oldest things on the planet. They’re essentially Spain’s Stonehenge. The dolmens were discovered between 1903-05 by the brothers Antonio and José Viera of Antequera.

At its 40th meeting, UNESCO decided to add the site to the list as a cultural asset. It deemed Antequera’s dolmens a remarkable engineering and architectural work of European prehistory and an important example of landscape monumentalism.

The megaliths are characterized by the use of large stone blocks that form chambers and spaces covered by roofs. A dolman is a single chamber tomb consisting of two of more vertical megaliths supporting a large flat horizontal table of stone, then covered with mounds of earth.

For more information, click here for my complete guide to visiting this unique UNESCO site, perfect for ruin lusters. Click here to tour the dolmens.

>>> Click here to book a tour of the dolmens

24. Amphitheatre, Itálica

Less than a half hour from Seville lie the Roman ruins of Italica. It’s one of the most famous Roman landmarks in Spain.

The Romans founded Italica in 206 B.C. It’s reputedly the birthplace of three Roman Emperors — Hadrian, Trajan, and Theodosius.

The amphitheater once held 25,000 people, and was the third largest in the Roman Empire. Italica is now the modern day Santiponce. To safeguard the ruins, Santipoce has applied for UNESCO World Heritage status.

In the hit HBO show Game of Thrones, Italica serves as the dragon pit of Kings Landing, which was basically a stable for the Targaryen dragons.

You can book a Game of Thrones tour from Seville.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the ruins

25. Roman Theater, Merida

Not too far from Italica, you’ll find the UNESCO site of Merida. Merida is home to Spain’s most impressive Roman ruins.

If you purchase a combination ticket on site for €15, you can inspect the Roman Theater, amphitheater, crypt, House of Mitreo and Columbarium, and the Roman Circus.

The most impressive site is the RomanTheater of Merida. Built between 16 and 15 BC, the ancient building was designed to hold up to 6000 citizens.

It boasts a striking marble columned section that served as a backdrop for performances. The theater still hosts performances and you can see it lit up on a nighttime tour.

The Roman amphitheater isn’t as impressive as Italica’s. But it’s still worth a look for history buffs. Then walk over the Roman Bridge (reminiscent of the one in Cordoba) to explore the alcazaba and villa.

You can book a combination ticket for the theater and Alcazaba Castle.

26 . Barcelona Cathedral

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter begins at the Pla de la Seu, where street magicians and human statues panhandle in front of Barcelona Cathedral.

The cathedral is a grand monument dating from the 13th to 15th centuries. Its official name is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia.

READ : Guide To Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

The cathedral’s Neo-Gothic facade is stunning. It’s not ancient, receiving facelifts in the 19th and 20th century.

Sit by the steps and absorb its grandiosity. You can visit the church for free from 8:00 am to 12:45 pm and 5:45 pm to 7:30 pm. Otherwise, entry is by donation.

Inside, the cathedral has a wide central nave and two side aisles, separated by colonnades. The cathedral has 28 richly decorated chapels, an ornate finely carved choir, and a peaceful cloister with bubbling fountains.

Behind the high altar is the Bishop’s chair. You’ll also find the crypt of Saint Eulalia, the patron saint to whom the cathedral is dedicated.

The cloisters are the highlight. Arcaded walkways surround a central courtyard filled with tropical trees.

A short elevator ride takes you to the top of the cathedral for stunning city views. For the best view of cathedral itself, take the elevator to the rooftop of the next door Hotel Colon.

27. Medina Azahara, Cordoba

If you are spending  1 day in Cordoba  trip, visit the  Medina Azahara .

Medina Azahara is the largest archaeological site in Spain. Destroyed during a civil war in the 11th century, this landmark in Spain is still only 10% excavated.

You can explore the private residences, guard houses, a basilica, a mosque, and gardens. The two highlights of the site are the House of Ya’far and the Abd-al-Rahman II Hall in the gardens.

At night, the tranquil ruins are lit up to good effect after dark.

If you’d like to book a tour to see this UNESCO site, click   here to book a skip the line tickt and here  for a wonderful 3 hour guided tour.

28. Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Cordoba

Then, pay a visit the  Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , or Alcazar of the Christan Monarchs in English. It’s similar (but not as elaborate) as the Royal Alcazar in Seville, built in the Mudéjar style. The UNESCO World Heritage site was built in 1328.

The alcazar features an elaborate Moorish bathhouse, King Alfonso XI’s castle, and gardens. The gardens have ponds, reflecting pools, plantings.

The alcazar’s main tower is known as the “Tower of the Inquisition.” During the Spanish Inquisition, in 1482, the circular tower was used a prison, headquarters, and torture and interrogation chambers.

Click  here to book and skip the line ticket and h e re  if you’d like to book a 1 hour guided tour of the alcazar. For maximum efficiency, you can also book a  combo tour of the Mezquita and the Alcazar .

29. Cuenca’s Hanging Houses, Cuena

Undiscovered Cuenca is a dramatic UNESCO-listed medieval town in the region of Castilla la Mancha, the land of Don Quixote.

Cuenca is home to the gravity defying “hanging houses.” These cliffside houses cling precipitously to the top of vertical cliffs, jutting into thin air between two river canyons. 

The best photo op is from the jaw dropping Puente de San Pablo, the bridge spanning a 130 foot gorge. The houses themselves offer spectacular vi3ws from they perch above the valley.

Cuena is an easy day trip from Madrid .

30. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Arantzazu

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Arantzazy lies near the town of Onati. Onati has lavishly decorated Gothic and Baroque buildings and a mystical medieval atmosphere. 

The Sanctuary of Arantzazu is an old Franciscan monastery. It’s of huge importance in the region and perched at the very top of a winding mountain road.

The sanctuary’s patron saint is the Virgin of Arantzazu. Not far from the sanctuary are the Arrikrutz Caves. They are home to several extinct species including cave lions.

31. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

The absolutely jaw dropping  San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a magical spot about 45 minutes from Bilbao. It’s a must visit landmark in Spain.

Gaztelugatxe is a must see natural landmark in northern Spain’s Basque Region. It’s a fantastical ancient stone foot bridge winding up to a 1,000 year old hermitage chapel on Spain’s Bay of Biscay. It’s a dramatic hike.

You’ll definitely want to stop, linger, and absorb the stunning views on the ascent. Along the bridge are smaller staircases that lead down to reflecting spots at the edge of the water.

Gaztelugatxe is now TV famous. In the wildly popular TV series Game of Thrones , Gaztelugatxe appears as Dragonstone — the haunting ancestral home of Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons. On a bright day, the views are unbelievable.

>>> Click here to book a day tour from Bilbao

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to famous landmarks in Spain. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• 30+ Secret Towns in Spain
• Most Beautiful Places in Andalusia Day Trips From Bilbao
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid to Seville
• 10 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary From Barcelona to Bilbao
• 10-14 Day Itinerary for Spain’s Major Cities
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary for Andalusia

If you’d like to visit Spain’s most famous monuments, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on July 10, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Landmarks in Spain | The Top 30 Must-Visit Spanish Landmarks

From the soaring Sagrada Familia to the spectacular Seville Cathedral, there’s no doubt that Spain is absolutely stacked with stunning monuments, iconic places and pretty as a picture landmarks. Whether it is under the guiding hand of pre-eminent architect, Gaudi, or even the more mainstream look of the country’s most renowned stadium, Camp Nou, you’ll find all manner of incredible buildings to behold, all with their unique Spanish charm. So, with all that in mind, we just had to capture some of the most famous ones; all those landmarks in Spain that have to make a must-visit list. And, to really round out the list, we asked some of the world’s leading travel writers to send us their favourites, all in the name of counting down the top 30 most celebrated Spanish landmarks.

Our top 10 landmarks in Spain

• La Sagrada Familia

Seville Cathedral

• Puente Nuevo
• The City of Arts and Sciences
• The Guggenheim Museum

Aqueduct of Segovia

• Metropol Parasol
• Mezquita-Catedral

El Escorial

La sagrada familia, barcelona.

Explored by Lee from The Travel Scribes

Not only one of the famous landmarks in Spain, La Sagrada Familia is a world-famous landmark and an UNESCO World Heritage site that is actually still under construction!

The foundations for the Basílica de la Sagrada Família were laid in 1882 by architect Francisco de Paula del Villar but within a year he had resigned. Antoni Gaudi, who appears a couple more times on this list, then took over as chief architect, working on the project until he passed away in 1926. At that stage La Sagrada Familia was less than a quarter complete.

Nowadays the building is definitely closer to completion, with construction hoped to be finished by 2026 in time for the centenary of Gaudi’s death.

The basilica is enormous and one of the most decorative and impressive buildings in Spain; an absolute must-visit on any trip to Barcelona.

Explored by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Visiting the monumental Catedral de Sevilla is one of the top things to do in Seville . The Seville Cathedral, officially Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is the largest Gothic church in the world. When built, it became the largest church in the world, and its creator’s goal was to build a church so magnificent and so enormous that people would think they were mad.

Together with the Royal Alcazar and the Archive of the Indies, the Seville Cathedral is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its many beautiful spires, the stunning cathedral dominates the square in which it is located.

Inside, the Capilla Mayor boasts a dazzling altarpiece, gilded with real gold from the New World. Behind this is the ornate Royal Chapel. There are many beautiful side chapels to see, as well as stained glass windows and artwork to admire.

Outside, walk through the beautiful Patio de los Naranjos, the courtyard of the orange trees. When the citrus fruit is in bloom, the courtyard smells heavenly.

La Giralda, the bell tower of the cathedral is stunning at nearly 100 meters. Built as a minaret for the mosque that stood on this site before the Reconquista, the tower is topped by the El Giraldillo weather vane. You can walk the ramp to the top of the tower for spectacular views over the city.

The Cathedral is a hugely popular attraction in Seville. There is a fee to visit, so buy skip-the-line tickets ahead of time if you visit in season.

The City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

Explored by Or from My Path in the World 

Probably the most famous modern landmark in Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences is a remarkable one-billion-Euros cultural complex that covers about 350,000 square meters and consists of six different structures. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, built in the 90s and 2000s, and is now one of the 12 Treasures of Spain.

The complex is home to the Principe Felipe Science Museum, the Hemisferic (a planetarium and an IMAX cinema), the Oceanografic (Europe’s largest aquarium), the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia (a performing arts centre), and the Agora, which hosts different cultural events. It’s also where you’ll find the Umbracle, a unique open-air structure of a beautiful garden covered by giant arches.

Wandering around the City of Arts and Sciences, its futuristic architecture and massive size will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another universe. It’s not for nothing that it has become one of the top photo spots in the city, and you can easily spend a couple of hours just exploring it from every possible angle.

Strolling around the complex is free of charge (and is one of the best ways to experience  Valencia on a budget ). If you want to visit the museums, purchase a combo card to save money because entrance fees vary from museum to museum and some of them can be a bit pricey.

Puente Nuevo, Ronda

Explored by Stuart from Just Travelling Through

The South of Spain has many highlights, as you might expect from an area with such a rich history and amazing architecture. One of the most famous is located in the small town of Ronda , just a short distance from Malaga. Ronda’s Puente Nuevo (or ‘New Bridge’) separates the old town from the new as it spans the dramatic El Tajo gorge.

To get the best views of Puente Nuevo head along Calle Tenorio (on the right after the bridge) and follow the trail leading down to the bottom of the gorge. From there gaze up in wonder as Puente Nuevo towers above you. Later follow the pathway a little further back to see Puente Nuevo in full view and appreciate the full majesty of this impressive feat of engineering.

Once you’ve strained your neck for long enough at the foot at the bridge, why not try something a little challenging and search for the secret Via Ferrata? It’s a series of metal steps connected to a cliff face that take you all the way to the viewpoint at the bottom. It’s certainly not the easiest way down and can take a little finding, but once your feet return to solid ground it definitely feels worth all the effort.

Royal Palace of Madrid

Explored by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the most iconic buildings in Spain is the Royal Palace of Madrid. This beautiful building is located in the capital of the country and you should definitely visit it. It is an impressive building, huge in fact, with about 3500 rooms! What’s more it is the largest royal palace in Europe!

Not only is the outside of the building remarkable, but there is also so much to see on the inside! There are paintings by de Goya, Caravaggio, and many other famous artists. Also, there are loads of beautiful objects to see, such as watches, silverware, and furniture.

What’s also interesting about this palace is that it is still in use! It is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, but the King and his family don’t live there. And nowadays it is mainly used for official ceremonies.

At any time of the year you can visit the palace grounds and you can witness the changing of the guard, which is really fun to see. However, if you want to get inside the palace you have to pay an admission fee of €6.50 (7.70 USD/6 GBP).

Although if you’re on a budget and keen to enter, you can also get in for free from Monday till Thursday between 5.00pm and 7.00pm and it’s good to also note that citizens of the European Union also get free entry.

If you’re looking for awesome activities when visiting the city, then I’d definitely recommend that you check out some of the amazing museums in Madrid !

Explored by John Paul from The Hangry Backpacker

El Escorial is one of the largest and most historic landmarks in Spain. The imposing structure is a former centre of education, monastery and royal residence, today functioning largely as a museum and religious centre. 

The massive Spanish landmark of San Lorenzo de El Escorial sits in a small town about an hour from Madrid. It can be easily reached via car, bus or train. Although El Escorial is fairly easy to reach, it is important to allocate plenty of time for a visit. The size of the complex can’t be understated.

Among the notable parts of El Escorial – those that are open to visitors include the nearly-500-year-old Spanish landmark has a huge basilica, famous works of art, ornate libraries and preserved royal living quarters. The map room and Hall of Battles are particularly fascinating. The site offers a glimpse into Spanish history as well as the life and wealth of the Spanish Royal family during centuries past.

Perhaps the most famous feature of El Escorial is the Royal Pantheon, the subterranean crypt with the elaborate tombs of Spanish kings and queens. While the silence is slightly eerie, the room itself is a stunning spectacle of Spanish history.

For a thorough tour, plan for several hours to wander the grounds. El Escorial is an imposing landmark in Spain that is more than a large and interesting royal site, it’s a beautiful display of Spanish history well worth an easy day trip from Madrid.

Consuegra Windmills

Explored by Emily from Wander-Lush

The Molinos de Viento de Consuegra , or Consuegra Windmills, are another iconic landmark in Spain. Not only are the windmills celebrated for their beauty and historic value, but also for their significance to Spanish literature and the arts.

The windmills’ reputation is largely thanks to the novel Don Quixote , which is set in this part of the country. When author Miguel de Cervantes famously described his protagonist as ‘tilting at windmills’, it was these whitewashed towers that he was referring to.

The windmills are located on the outskirts of the small town of Consuegra in central Spain’s Toledo Province, roughly 1.5 hours’ drive south of Madrid. There are 12 in total dotted along on the Calderico Ridge, surrounded by a pretty patchwork of agricultural fields and the River Amarguillo below.

When they were built between the 16th and 19th centuries, the windmills served a practical purpose, harnessing wind power to grind grain. Each one was privately owned and passed down through generations of the same family until they were eventually retired in the 1980s. Diligent restoration has ensured the windmills appear much the same as they did when Don Quixote was published in 1605. Each one has since been renamed after a character from the book.

Four of the towers still have their original machinery inside. Others are used as event spaces, including the Molino Sancho windmill, which hosts an annual Saffron Festival in October. There’s also a small museum, a visitor’s centre and a gift shop on site.

The easiest way to visit historic La Mancha and see the windmills up close is by driving down from Madrid. Try to arrive early before the tour buses roll in.

Metropol Parasol, Seville

Explored by Caroline from CK Travels

Metropol Parasol or Las Setas De Sevilla is affectionately known as the ‘mushroom’ and is one of the most interesting landmarks and  top things to do in Seville . This unique and iconic structure was designed by the German architect Jürgen Mayer and opened in 2011 after six years of construction. It is said to be the largest wooden structure in the world and consists of six 85 foot high curvy parasols in the shape of giant mushrooms – a striking contrast with the architecture of Seville’s old town.

At the top of the structure is a network of walkways and viewing decks on various levels that you can walk around for excellent panoramic views of Seville city and amazing photo opportunities. To access the top of the structure you will need to take a lift up at a cost of 5 EUR per person (6 USD/4.50 GBP).

We totally recommend you time your visit just before sunset for glorious red hued views of the city. The evenings are a little busy though so if you want to visit with no crowds, head up first thing in the morning. There is also a café at the top which sells alcoholic drinks, smoothies and snacks if you need to refuel. 

Camp Nou, Barcelona

Explored by James from The Travel Scribes

Spain and the beautiful game go as well together as tapas and sangria, so it’s no surprise that one of the most famous football stadiums in the world makes it onto our list of the most famous Spanish landmarks.

And home to probably the most exciting football team over the last decade, Camp Nou is the stadium that hosts Barcelona FC.

If you are a football fan (or maybe even if you aren’t), we’d highly recommend adding a Camp Nou stadium tour to your Barcelona itinerary. The basic stadium and museum tour will cost you around 26 EUR per person (30 USD/23.75 GBP)… Or if you happen to be in town when Barcelona are playing a home match – maybe go that extra mile to try and get a ticket to feel the atmosphere of a full almost 100,000 seater Camp Nou!

The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Explored by Karen from Are We There Yet Kids

The Guggenheim Modern Art Museum is located in Bilbao, in the Basque Region of Spain. It’s full of stunning installations from both well-known and upcoming contemporary artists. Whilst the exhibits and famous names are enough to draw crowds from all across Europe, the building itself is the most spectacular part of this museum.

Designed by American architect Frank Gehry the structure is sleek, curvaceous and stands proud next to the Nervion River. Constructed with titanium cladded sheets, the walls reflect the surroundings meaning the colours seem to change as often as the weather. 

The iconic design is complemented by large-scale outdoor installations such as the 12-metre-tall, flower covered Puppy by American artist Jeff Koons and the atmospheric Maman Spider by Louise Bourgeoius which stands 9 metres high. Fans of the Chicago Bean will love Tall Tree and the Eye by Anish Kapoor encompassing 73 reflective balls precariously balanced, 13 metres high.

Inside the Museum you’ll find both permanent and temporary exhibits from established and emerging artists ensuring there is something to suit every taste. Be sure to take the free audio tour which will explain each installation in more detail. 

Once you’ve finished your visit, the Nerua Restaurant in the Guggenheim is the perfect place for dinner. Chef Josean Alija creates amazing seasonal Basque specialities in beautiful surroundings.

Explored by Ucman from Brown Boy Travels

Alhambra is the most visited site in all of Spain. This beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site in Granada offers intrigue, architecture, history, beauty and live all in one place. First off, it is not a single palace or building but rather a complex with many palaces, gardens and fortress walls. 

At its heart are the Moorish palaces both winter and summer.

The moment you enter the complex you cannot be but impressed at the scale of this gorgeous place that has inspired so many including the Catholic rulers of Spain who couldn’t bring themselves to destroying these icons of Moorish rule. 

The entrance to winter palace is timed and if you miss it, you’d need to buy another ticket for another day, be careful!

It is hard to describe the details of decor so intricate from walls to ceilings that’s carved with geometric patterns and wood. Colours and mirrors are woven so intricately and masterfully that you cannot look elsewhere. 

The courtyard of lions is the centre of this palace. You should spend a quiet moment here between the groups of tourists passing by – it will reveal a secret or two of its glory.

The summer palace or Generalife as it’s known is another world of water mist through fountains mixed with colours and scent of flowers and greenery.

The visit to Alhambra doesn’t end at the walls of Alhambra though. Take a seat in Albyzin district after dark on a full moon night to experience the charm of this marvel that dazzles you day or night, near or far. 

The Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

Explored by Veronika from Travel Geekery

The whole Gothic Quarter in Barcelona belongs to one of the top tourist sites in the city. While some of the monuments found in the Gothic Quarter do indeed come from medieval times, others were rebuilt or constructed anew to add to the appeal of the Quarter during the early 20 th century to prepare the city for the World Expo in 1929.

That’s the case of El Pont del Bisbe , the no. 1 photo spot in the area. This ornate bridge connects two buildings and has non-functional gargoyles sticking out.

At Plaça Reial, you’ll find columns of an ancient Roman temple called El Templo de Augusto from the first century BC, hidden away in a courtyard of one of the residential buildings.

The Barcelona Cathedral forms the real heart of the Gothic Quarter. Originally built in the 13-15 centuries, it received a major neo-Gothic makeover in the early 20 th century, which Antoni Gaudí hated.

You’ll find a cluster of historical buildings at the square Plaça del Rei. Don’t miss the large palace Reial Major , featuring even some add-ons from the Renaissance era. Right next is Casa Padellàs housing Barcelona’s Museum of History. This nobleman’s house was originally located at the Vía Laietana, but was moved to its current location during the major makeover of the area for the 1929 World Expo. Vía Laietana was full of Roman houses, but it fell prey to a large boulevard present here now.

The beautiful little square called Plaça de Sant Felip Neri has a historical-looking fountain, which is just 50 years old, and a wall full of holes made by fascist bombs during the Spanish Civil war.

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid

And of course, we couldn’t include the home of Barcelona without the home of the Galactico’s, the most famous football team in the world and their beloved stadium, the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid are the most successful team in the world, and their 82,000 seater Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is up there with Camp Nou as one of the most renowned stadiums in the world, so another essential on our list, and must-visit on any Madrid itinerary.

If you’re keen to get up close and personal with the stadium, they also have a stadium tour with tickets costing from as little as 14 EUR (16.50 USD/12.75 GBP).

Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe

Explored by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

While this monastery in Spain’s Extremadura region does get a steady stream of Spanish tourists and religious pilgrims, it’s quite off the radar for most foreign visitors to Spain. But all those people who skip over it are really missing out. A trip to this remote region of Spain would be worth it just for the history and architecture of the building alone. But what really makes a visit to the Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe extra special is the opportunity to dine and even sleep inside this historic building, and for a very reasonable price. A chapel was first built here in the 13th century at the place where a statue of the blessed Virgin Mary was miraculously discovered on the banks of the Guadalupe River. King Alfonso XI later attributed his victory in battle to the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the chapel became a royal sanctuary and was greatly expanded. For several centuries, the Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe was considered to be the most important of all the monasteries and convents in Spain. Even today, it’s still a working monastery, and the monks who live here also run a restaurant and guesthouse that are part of the monastery complex. The restaurant tables are set up in the courtyard of one of the cloisters, while the guesthouse rooms are converted monks cells. As you might imagine, the rooms aren’t exactly luxurious, but they are very budget-friendly, and spending the night inside this beautiful monastery feels like a luxury in itself. 

Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Of course, the Sagrada Familia is Antoni Gaudi’s most famous work. But his masterpieces are sprinkled all over Barcelona, with his Art Nouveau style evident in many buildings dotted across the city. One of the most famous is definitely Casa Batlló (also called Casa Butlló), a home redesigned by Gaudi in the early 1900’s.

Originally constructed as a classical building 1877, it was later bought by the prominent textile magnate, Joseph Batlló. Batlló really wanted to tear down the house but, after consulting with Gaudi, he decided to let the architect renovate it instead, and the resulting home is a sight to behold. Nicknamed Casa dels ossos (or the House of Bones), the building has an almost skeletal façade. Adorned with broken ceramic tiles in fascinating mosaics, as well as odd-shaped windows and flowing stonework, the building is ‘typical Gaudi’; unusual and difficult even to describe. The roof, however, is the crowning glory of the external façade, often referred to as a ‘dragon’s spine’, depicted in colourful tiles with four chimney stacks.

It’s well worth a turn inside too, as this UNESCO World Heritage site also houses a museum on the ‘noble floor’, alongside other treasures like Batlló’s study and a mushroom-inspired fireplace, specifically created for loved-up couples!

The Universidad Laboral de Gijón

Explored by Dagney from Cultura Obscura

One of the most overlooked iconic buildings in Spain is the Universidad Laboral de Gijón in the northern Asturian city of Gijon . But the Universidad Laboral de Gijón is actually the biggest building in Spain, and of great historical significance to the region.

Initially the Laboral was built as an orphanage and opened in 1955. Coal mining used to be the largest industry in the Asturias region, and because of the dangers of the job, many children were tragically left orphaned or their parents unable to provide for them financially. When this happened, they were sent to Laboral to live and complete their educations.

Now, however, after being abandoned for many years, in the 1980s the Laboral is used as a cultural centre and part of the University of Oviedo campus.

Tourists are welcome to visit even if special exhibitions or events are not on. It is encouraged to check out the church and the tower. The church is the largest oval church in the world, while the tower’s claim to fame is that it is both the tallest building in the Asturias region and the tallest stone building in all of Spain. So naturally, it has amazing views over the city!

While you’re out that side of Gijón, make sure to stop into the beautiful Atlántico Botanical Garden which is just down the road and also well worth a visit.

Mezquita-Catedral, Córdoba

Explored by Maggie from The World Was Here First

One iconic landmark that cannot be missed on a trip to Spain is the incredible Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, or the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba! Located in the historic city in Andalucía, you can easily visit Córdoba as a day trip from Seville or, better yet, spend a few days taking in all of the sights.

While there are many things to see in Córdoba, the beautiful Mezquita-Catedral is the biggest and most iconic in the city. The site where this historic complex currently stands was first constructed as a church in the 6th Century. Following the Moorish conquest of Spain, Córdoba became one of the most powerful Islamic cities outside of the Middle East and the humble church was turned into a gargantuan mosque.

Following the Reconquista of Córdoba in the 13th Century, the mosque was then converted into a cathedral and, to this day, stands as the main church of the city, bearing the ecclesiastical name of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. 

Today you can tour the Mezquita-Catedral and take in the mix of architectural and religious influences that the building bears.

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia

Explored by Alya & Campbell from the Stingy Nomads

The Cathedral Santiago de Compostela in Galicia is one of the most remarkable Gothic cathedrals in Europe. The construction of the present Cathedral started in 1075 after the discovery of what’s believed to be the tomb of Apostle St. James. The Cathedral is one of the three churches in the world built over a tomb of an apostle of Jesus. Since the Middle Ages, the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela became one of the most important holy places for Christians. Pilgrims from different parts of Europe started walking to Santiago following the route that is known as the Camino de Santiago, the most popular pilgrimage route in Europe. 

The exterior of the Cathedral is truly impressive, with elaborated façades, columns, and porticos with carved saints and scenes from the Old Testament, multiple arches, bell and clock towers. One can spend hours exploring the exterior and interior of the Cathedral.

The Compostela Cathedral is famous for the impressive Botafumeiro ceremony. The Botafumeiro in Santiago de Compostela is the largest censer in the world, it weighs 80 kg and is swung by eight specially trained men. The ceremony takes place several times a year on special occasions such as Resurrection Sunday or Christmas. It’s possible to arrange the ceremony on any chosen day for 450 Euros. Entrance to the Cathedral is free, tourists are not allowed inside during daily mass but anybody who wants can attend the service. 

The Temple of Debod, Madrid

Explored by Paul from thetwothatdo.com

One of the last monuments you’d expect to come across in Madrid is an example of ancient Egyptian architecture.

The Temple of Debod dating back over two millennia to the 2nd century BC is not just any example. It is the only one of its kind in Spain, one of a select few across the world and remarkably well preserved. It is fully deserving of its status as one of Madrid and Spain’s preeminent landmarks and a must see on your visit to Spain’s capital.

Originally a single room chapel constructed in the Nubia region of Egypt south of Aswan The Temple of Debod was subsequently extended during the Ptolemaic dynasty and completed under the Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius. Under threat due to construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s Egypt donated The Temple to the country of Spain as a thank you for their help in saving the hugely impressive Abu Simbel Rock Temples near the border with Sudan.

Whilst the Temple was reassembled in a different configuration it does maintain the original East to West orientation. Located in the serene setting of the Parque del Oeste less than a mile and a 15-minute walk of Madrid’s Royal Palace, The Temple of Debod is perfect for a moment of contemplation away from the hustle and bustle of a modern city. Time your visit to coincide with a stunning orange sunset and you will be rewarded with one of Madrid’s most tranquil and beautiful panoramas.

Torre Glòries, Barcelona

Explored by Fuad from A Walk in the World

When you are in Barcelona, you must keep two points top of mind. You must not miss a football match if Lionel Messi plays. And, you should keep an eye for the works of Antoni Gaudi; as wherever you travel in Barcelona, you will notice the divine touch of Gaudi, such is his influence on the city. 

Keeping the works of Gaudi in mind, from most of the points of Barcelona, you will see a fascinating dome-like building and wonder what that could be… Well, that’s the Torre Glòries (previously known as Torre Agbar) for you, ladies and gentlemen – and surprisingly it’s not designed by Gaudi! 

While most of the famous buildings in Barcelona are a century old, Torre Glòries was opened only 15 years back. This building announced the starting point of a new Barcelona – the opening of its technological district. And since then, this has been operating as the city’s business hub. 

With 38 storeys, the Torre Glories is the tallest landmark in Barcelona and will remain the same until the construction of La Sagrada Familia is completed. And according to its architect, he got the inspiration of designing the building from Montserrat, a notable mountain near Barcelona. 

You will get a beautiful view of Torre Glòries from the hill of Parc Guell. However, as you get closer to it, you will notice that it has a lot of windows. In fact, there are 4400 windows in this skyscraper.

This tower changes colour during different important events and festivals and has become an important icon of Barcelona. A visit to Torre Glòries should be on top of your  things to do list in Barcelona .

Explored by Becki from Meet Me In Departures

The ancient city of Segovia is a must-see if you have a penchant for fairy-tale castles, Roman ruins and ancient walled cities. An absolute must for your  Segovia itinerary  is the city’s most notable landmark, the Aqueduct of Segovia; El Aqueducto. 

If you read up about any of the histories on the UNESCO listed city, you’ll find there are several fascinating stories as to how the aqueduct got there. Some say it was built by Hercules while others go down a darker route and say it’s the work of the Devil himself. As enchanting as these fables are, it was in fact built by the Romans at around the 1st century AD. 

The iconic ancient structure was built without any mortar to hold it together; it consists of more than 160 arches which have been cut in such a way so that the aqueduct is held together by gravity. Amazingly the aqueduct still works right to this day; hundreds of years after this engineering feat was built, it still delivers fresh water to the city. The aqueduct is so important to the city, that it’s the symbol of Segovia, and you’ll find little images of it dotted all over the place. 

Other notable things to see in the city are the Alcazar of Segovia, like many castles around the world, this claims to be the inspiration for Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Also, don’t miss the Gothic style Segovia Cathedral, as well as spending some time exploring the pretty cobbled streets in the Jewish Quarter and the Old City walls.

Plaza Mayor, Madrid

One of the most photographed landmarks in Spain, Madrid’s Plaza Mayor has to make it on a list of notable places in the country. With a history stretching back as far as the reign of Philip III, this incredible public space was designed by Juan de Herrera and completed in 1619. Alas, the square has seen its fair share of disasters since it was first opened to the public. A fire in 1631, followed by another in 1670 and the last in 1790! This trifecta of disaster saw the square and surrounding buildings reconstructed each time, to the gorgeous structures that still stands today; finally ‘finished’ in 1854.

Originally a food and goods market (the Plaza del Arraba), this inspiring landmark has seen many events over the years – bullfighting, gruesome public executions and even the trials during the Spanish Inquisition! Today its purpose is a little simpler – it’s a meeting place for visitors frequenting one of its many outdoor cafes, plus hosts a number of fabulous festivals, concerts and outdoor events. Head there in winter and you might even be able to visit the twinkling lights and stalls of the annual Christmas Market, where you can pick up a few local trinkets as stocking stuffers.

Golden Tower, Seville

Explored by Nisha & Vasu from Lemonicks

The Golden Tower, located on the banks of the river Guadalquivir next to the Puente San Telmo in Seville, is a remnant of the Moorish fortified walls. The walls with 166 towers and 15 gates enclose the city of Seville. The Golden Tower is actually a watchtower designed to protect the docks and has played an important role in the city’s defense and commerce over the last eight centuries. In earlier days it was part of two towers, one either side of the river and connected by a chain. This chain was used to stop ships sailing in and out as a part of the defense system. Later the tower was used to store gold imported from abroad.

The Golden Tower has twelve sides and another twelve-sided small tower on top of it. When it was built, the dome was covered in gold and probably this is why it got its name as the Golden Tower. It is home to a naval museum having flags, maps, scale models of ships, diving equipment and other maritime memorabilia spread over several floors.

One of the must attractions if you are in Seville, you can climb to the top for a great view of the river and the town.

Go towards the evening as the sun rays falling on the tower makes it even more beautiful, the golden reflection on the river looks amazing. There are river cruises as well and several restaurants across the river to enjoy your evening. 

La Rambla, Barcelona

It’s the beating heart of Barcelona, La Rambla (aka Las Ramblas), the tree-shaded pedestrianized street running like gold through the centre of the city for over 1.2km. Often thronged with tourists, this famous street ‘starts’ at Port Vell, located near the cruise terminal, to Plaça de Catalunya at the north, while also dividing up two quarters – El Raval to the west and the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) to the east.

This world-renowned boulevard has some unique origins, as it was a stream filled with sewage (yes, really!) helping to drain away the rain from the Collserola hills. Around 1377 the city started to extend the walls and the stream was diverted to outside it, with La Rambla gradually then taking pride of place as a central street. It was after this that the street truly came into its own, used as a meeting point for markets and festivals, and suddenly flanked with major religious monuments like the Jesuit Bethlehem and Capuchin monasteries. It was also the site of many conflicts – the St James’ Night riots, the Spanish Civil War and many attacks including the more recent terrorist attack of 2017.

Nowadays there is no doubt that La Rambla is a major landmark in the city, and that nearly every visitor will walk its length at least once on their trip. From street vendors to souvenir shops, flower sellers to overflowing cafes, there’s nothing like La Rambla when it comes to the frivolity and frenetic pace of Barcelona.

Castilla Monumento Colomares, Benalmadena

Explored by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

When it comes to visiting Benalmadena, you are surely getting more than just beautiful beaches as the place is filled with some of the most iconic restaurants, clubs with great nightlife, and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. But one of the best things to do in Benalmadena is visiting Castilla Monumento Colomares, a castle straight out of a fairy tale. 

This castle welcomes tourists with a gigantic fountain placed in the front yard and towers on each side. You’ll also find one of Europe’s most prominent Buddhist meditation monument, Benalmadena Stupa, coloured in bright white. 

Each morning you can find several people gathered here for meditation, which you can join. Or, if you’re a nature lover, you can take a stroll in the nearby Mariposario de Benalmádena, a park dedicated to 1500 different butterfly species. 

Almudena Cathedral, Madrid

Explored by De Wet and Jin from Museum of Wander

The Almudena Cathedral in central Madrid is the city’s main cathedral and a worthwhile stop on your self-guided walking tour of Madrid . Situated right next to the Royal Palace, you will be forgiven if you had thought it must be very old.

The Almudena was actually only completed in 1993! Although construction started in 1879, work came to a complete halt during the Spanish Civil War.  When the project finally resumed during the 50’s the original plan was changed so that the exterior would match that of the adjacent Royal Palace. It took another few decades before it was officially opened by Pope John Paul II in 1993.

The Almudena might look like your classical Spanish Catholic cathedral from the outside, but wait until you see the modern interior! The stained-glass windows can only be described as religious pop art. The Neo-Gothic interior is a colourful collaboration of styles and artists, which makes it one of the most unique cathedrals you’ll ever visit.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the Almudena is the ceiling. The mishmash of patterns and colours actually ties everything together to form a spectacular sight. 

The Almudena Cathedral might not be one of the largest or the oldest in the world, but it sure is one of the most interesting. Entrance to the Almudena is free of charge.

Parc Güell, Barcelona

Explored by Nat from Boletworldwide

Parc Güell (also called Park Güell) is one of the most iconic places in Barcelona . It’s located in Carmel Hill and is a public park with a private zone. The park is a composition of gardens and architectural parts created by Antoni Gaudí.

It was built between 1900 and 1914 and opened officially in 1926, later (in 1984), becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Find yourself transported to another world with unusual creations, like the famous mosaic salamander of Barcelona, known as “el drac” which means ‘the dragon’.

Make sure you buy tickets online as they are cheaper. Or arrive early in the morning (7am) to enter for free. Even though it’s early, it’s totally worth it to enjoy the sunrise from there and have the whole park to yourself.

Real Alcazar

Explored by Marianna from Irma Naan World

Real Alcazar or the Royal Palace is one of the most important buildings in Seville . Built in the famous Mudejar style (using Islamic elements in architecture), it has served as a home for Christian monarchs for almost 700 years after the conquest of Seville. Real Alcazar is less popular than Alhambra, but isn’t less beautiful. The interior walls are covered with colourful majolica tiles, the patios with ponds and lush greenery, and the gardens with flowers, palm and fruit trees that are perfect for strolls. While the entire palace is magnificent, there are three places everyone should visit: the gardens, the Hall of Ambassadors and Patio de las Doncellas.

These places are spectacular, but my personal tip for travellers is not to miss the Cuarto Real (the royal quarters). This is a part of Real Alcazar used by the current royal family of Spain and it’s not included in the main tour, so visitors have to buy separate tickets. It is totally worth the extra cost as the rooms are splendid. But be ready for an extra security check!

Real Alcazar will also be heaven for Game of Thrones fans as multiple episodes were filmed there. You will recognize the locations immediately, like the gardens, the underground water tanks and the Hall of Ambassadors.

Santa Barbara Castle, Alicante

Explored by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting 

One of the most beautiful and interesting landmarks in Spain is Santa Barbara Castle, a mammoth fortified citadel located in Alicante. If you visit this coastal port town in the southeast of Spain, it must be on your itinerary. No Alicante city break is complete without a visit to Santa Barbara Castle.

The citadel sits atop Mount Benacantil, a mountain overlooking the city of Alicante, its coastline and the sea. It’s been occupied for thousands of years and artefacts from the Bronze Age, Roman era and Moorish Spain have all been uncovered on the grounds of Santa Barbara Castle.

The fortress on the site dates back to the time of Moorish rule when Arabs controlled the Iberian Peninsula. In 1248 it was captured by Castilian forces on 4 December, the feast day of Saint Barbara, for which the castle was renamed. It was captured and recaptured in the subsequent years before Spain was unified. Numerous rulers reconstructed the castle after each attack and in 1963 it was opened to the public.

Today, you can hike to the top of Mount Benacantil and tour the castle when you visit Alicante. There are also funiculars built into the mountain which can assist in the climb for about 2 EUR each way (2.35 USD/1.85 GBP). Once you reach the castle, guided tours are available and there are countless tours from the city of Alicante that can be booked to see this beautiful landmark in Spain.

Plaza de España, Seville

Explored by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Plaza de España is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seville. The large plaza built in 1928 is a great place to explore or simply relax and take in the atmosphere. 

Located on the edge of Maria Luisa Park, the picturesque plaza boasts a large fountain in the centre. Surrounding the fountain, there are man-made canals with four bridges that extend over the water connecting the buildings on the far side of Plaza de España to the main, open area of the plaza. Visitors can take a paddleboat ride around the scenic semi-circle plaza or explore the colourful alcoves adorned with intricate ceramic tiles. The alcoves built around the plaza represent the different regions of Spain. Each alcove is flanked with bookcases where you can often find books about the region of Spain represented by that alcove or even favourite books left behind by visitors to the plaza.

Plaza de España is also a popular place to find street performers working for tips and locals lounging in the park underneath shade trees on a nice day. 

Centrally located and in walking distance from other popular tourist sites like the Seville Cathedral and Real Alcazar, Plaza de España is a must-visit whether you have just 2 or 3 days in Seville or much longer.

Landmarks in Spain Interactive Map

Want to check off all the sights? Use this interactive Spain tourist attractions map:

So what do you think about our must-visit landmarks in Spain? Did we miss any off that you think should have made it into the top 30? Let us know in the comments below…

Or if you’re interested to check out other amazing landmarks from around Europe:

• Here are the must visit landmarks in Italy
• The top landmarks in Croatia
• Landmarks from England to make it onto your UK travel list
• The top French landmarks
• 21 iconic buildings and landmarks in Germany
• The best landmarks to visit in London

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So happy to have participated in this and to read all the other amazing places!! Great post!

Thanks Nat! And thanks for your awesome entry… we loved finding out about a load of new landmarks and have added quite literally a bucket load to our must-visit list…

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

These are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain, from charming villages to gorgeous beaches.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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Spain is not a monolith. The country on the Iberian Peninsula comprises 17 autonomous regions, each with distinct culture — with local food, drinks, and music — landmarks, and scenery. From beautiful Balearic beaches and the Antoni Gaudí architecture that shapes Barcelona to the rolling vineyards of Rioja and the Royal Palace in Madrid , Spain brims with historic sights, idyllic landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Needless to say, it’s pretty easy to pack an itinerary. Don’t worry about overdoing it — siestas are a well-established afternoon ritual, something pretty necessary if you're going to stay up for a 10 p.m. dinner.

Here are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain.

Royal Palace of Madrid

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

The Royal Palace of Madrid has the distinction of being the largest royal residence in Western Europe. Although the Spanish royal family doesn’t actually reside there anymore, the 3,418-room architectural marvel is still used for state ceremonies and welcomes visitors who come in droves to admire the priceless artwork, armor, and gilded décor.

Platja de Ses Illetes

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Set on the tiny Balearic island of Formentera, Platja de Ses Illetes consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain . A narrow strip of paradise that’s blessed with pristine white sand and warm, shallow, turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot for a dreamy day trip. 

La Sagrada Familia

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Barcelona, Catalonia’s capital, is home to numerous landmarks designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, but none more famous than La Sagrada Família, which holds the distinction of the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Its ogival windows, flying buttresses, twisted towers, and religious carvings make it one of the most beautiful places in Europe . 

Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca

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The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, also referred to as La Seu, stands as an emblem of the city. Constructed at the behest of the Crown of Aragon on the site of a Moorish-era mosque, the impressive landmark shows off Catalan Gothic architecture mixed with Northern European influences and sea views. 

San Sebastián

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Foodies flock to San Sebastián, the pearl of the Cantabrian Sea. This legendary culinary destination in northern Spain is beloved for its Basque cuisine and abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by some of the most talented chefs in the world. In between pintxos bars and fine dining, be sure to hit the golden beaches and explore the atmospheric Old Quarter.

Sierra Nevada National Park

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Snow-capped peaks define Sierra Nevada National Park. Not only does this protected area in the Andalusian provinces of Almería and Granada boast the highest mountains in continental Spain, but it’s also home to many rivers, verdant meadows, pine groves, and wildlife such as mountain goats and golden eagles.

Royal Alcázar of Seville

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The Royal Alcázar of Seville tells an interesting story reflective of Spain’s past. It was built for King Peter of Castile by Castilian Christians, but it actually sits on the site of an Abbadid Muslim alcázar, or palace. Over the years, many generations and cultures have left their mark on the palace through elaborate tilework, ornamental carvings, tapestries, and museum-quality art.

Valldemossa

The beautiful hilltop village of Valldemossa on the northwest coast of Mallorca feels far away from the capital (though it’s only 20 minutes away). Narrow streets wind toward the Royal Carthusian Monastery (Real Cartuja), a former royal palace that was later gifted to monks. Visitors can learn more about the town’s cultural heritage at Costa Nord.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo

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A must-see on any visit to Toledo, Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is a Roman Catholic church and masterclass in Spanish Gothic architecture. Highlights include stained-glass windows, soaring arched ceilings, flying buttresses, frescos, and a gallery filled with paintings by El Greco.

Cap de Formentor

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The northern tip of Mallorca, Cap de Formentor seems almost unreal with its dramatic, windswept, natural beauty and lack of tourists. This off-the-beaten-path promontory has a remote allure with near-empty beaches, pine forests, winding roads, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Prado Museum

The Prado Museum in Madrid serves as the main repository for national art. It boasts a truly spectacular collection of works by Spanish masters — paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, and sculptures — and showcases the talents of European artists throughout history as well.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

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The most significant and snap-worthy modern tourist attraction in Valencia, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is a futuristic-looking cultural complex that was designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava and features a ship-shaped opera house, IMAX dome theater, interactive science museum, open-air art gallery, and the largest aquarium in Europe.  

Plaza de España

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While Seville certainly isn’t lacking in photogenic landmarks, the Aníbal González-designed Plaza de España inside the Parque de María Luisa should be at the top of your list. Erected ahead of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, the famous plaza is truly show-stopping with grand buildings, a large fountain, canals, and tile-ornamented bridges.

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The westernmost of the three Rioja subregions, Rioja Alta is known for its vineyards that cling to the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria hills. If you want to soak in the colorful scenery, learn more about production methods, and sip world-class tempranillo, plan a tour and tasting at a few of the bodegas near the town of Haro.

Casa de Campo

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Casa de Campo in Madrid covers 1,723 hectares (for anyone doing the math, that makes it five times the size of Central Park in New York City) of verdant fields, forests, multi-use walking and cycling paths, tennis courts, a lake for boating, and even an amusement park, zoo, and aquarium. 

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Spain

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Lisa Alexander Updated Aug 31, 2023

Spain is a dream destination for travelers. The grandeur of a caliph's palace, the sun-drenched days spent on Mediterranean beaches, and the stamp of a flamenco dancer's heels. You can find the soul of Spain in tourist experiences like these, which represent the country's rich history, fascinating culture, and enchanting natural beauty.

From the bustling street life of La Rambla in Barcelona and Plaza Mayor in Madrid to the forest of columns and Moorish arches disappearing into the silent expanse of Cordoba's Great Mosque, Spain exudes a vibrant energy and a captivating blend of past and present. And if you get off the main tourist routes and venture into less tourist-oriented towns, you'll be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Plan your sightseeing and find interesting things to do with our list of the top attractions in Spain.

1. The Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, Granada

2. barcelona's sagrada familia and gaudí sites, 3. the great mosque of córdoba (la mezquita), 4. seville cathedral and alcázar, 5. the prado and paseo del artes, madrid, 6. san lorenzo de el escorial, 7. guggenheim museum, bilbao, 8. santiago de compostela cathedral, 9. plaza mayor, madrid, 10. plaza de españa and parque de maría luisa, seville, 11. ciudad de las artes y las ciencias, valencia, 12. beaches of gran canaria, 13. la rambla, barcelona, 14. the costa del sol, 15. el teide, tenerife, 16. toledo's old city, 17. the white towns of andalucía.

No matter how much you have read or how many pictures you have seen of Granada's Alhambra palaces, this Moorish pleasure palace will still take your breath away. The Nasrid dynasty's royal palace is the artistic highlight of Spain's Islamic period, when Al-Andalus - as they called Andalucía - represented the epitome of culture and civilization in medieval Europe.

The Alhambra complex includes several buildings, towers, walls, gardens, and a mosque, but it's the indescribably intricate stone carvings, the delicate filigrees, the magnificent tile-lined ceilings, the graceful arches, and serene courtyards of the Nasrid palace that will haunt your dreams.

That said, the adjoining palace built for the Emperor Charles V, even in its unfinished state is the finest example of High Renaissance architecture in Spain. And Generalife's terraced gardens offer a peaceful respite from the grandeur, and splendid views back at the rest of the Alhambra.

Author's Note: The Alhambra is large, requires a great deal of walking, and takes time to see. Don't plan on a quick visit. Be sure to book tickets well in advance. This is Spain's most visited tourist attraction and tickets sell out weeks in advance during busy times.

Travelers should set aside at least a half day to visit the Alhambra palaces and several days to explore the tourist attractions of Granada . Besides the Alhambra, other highlights of Granada include the UNESCO-listed Albaicín , the medieval Moorish quarter; the 16th-century Capilla Real de Granada (Royal Chapel); and the Sacromonte quarter, where flamenco performances take place in gypsy caves.

Antoni Gaudí took the architectural style known as Art Nouveau a step further, even, some have argued, into absurdity. The fanciful and outrageous buildings he created in Barcelona have become landmarks, the most emblematic tourist attractions of this Catalan city.

Foremost is the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, officially the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família or the Holy Family Church of the Atonement. One of Europe's most unconventional churches, it is also unfinished, so as you look down from its tower, you can see the work in progress below.

You may search in vain for absolute straight lines in Gaudí's Casa Milà , his last and most famous secular work; it resembles a piece of sculpture more than a functional building. Be sure to ascend to its roof – the chimneys are said to have inspired the image of Darth Vader from Star Wars .

The fantastic Casa Batlló, an iconic Gaudí building with mask-shaped balconies and an undulating façade, presents Magic Nights outdoor concerts on the building's rooftop terrace.

Parc Güell overlooks the city from a hillside, the views and gardens framed by fantastical creatures – salamanders, fish, an octopus – and designs in bright ceramic-chard mosaics. A fanciful towered house near the entrance is largely covered with colorful ceramic pieces.

Gaudí's monuments appeal even to children and to adults who don't care a thing about architecture, for one simple reason: they are just plain fun to look at.

Once the principal mosque of western Islam and still known as La Mezquita, Córdoba's Great Mosque is one of the largest in the world and the finest achievement of Moorish architecture in Spain.

In spite of later alterations that carved out its center to build a Catholic cathedral at its heart, the Great Mosque ranks with the Alhambra in Granada as one of the two most splendid examples of Islamic art and architecture in western Europe.

Building materials from Roman and Visigothic buildings were used in the construction, which began in 785, and by 1000, it had grown to its present dimensions, its prayer hall with no fewer than nineteen aisles. No matter where you stand or in which direction you look, its rows of columns and rounded Moorish arches line up in symmetrical patterns.

La Mezquita is found in the city center, close to many major attractions in Cordoba . Stroll down to the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) and the Puerta del Puente , or find a place to eat along the riverfront.

Some of the other highlights include the flower-bedecked patios in the Judería (old Jewish quarter) near the Great Mosque; the Palacio de Viana , a 15th-century aristocratic palace; and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , the former Caliphal Palace that Catholic king Fernando III took over in the 13th century. Narrow, winding streets; small squares; and low whitewashed houses fill the Judería, lending a Moorish atmosphere inherited from its past.

You can't miss the Seville Cathedral. This enormous structure is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and dominates the city center.

The Catedral de Sevilla , the La Giralda tower, and the Alcázar combine to form a UNESCO World Heritage Site . These three exceptional historic landmarks are the top tourist attractions of Seville .

While you can appreciate the cathedral from the outside, you need to step inside and walk beside the massive columns to really get a sense of the size. The Cathedral of Seville has more interior space than St. Peter's in Rome. The 37-meter main altar consists of carved statues completely covered in gold. The monumental tomb of Christopher Columbus is held aloft by a quartet of larger-than-life figures.

A masterpiece of Almohad architecture, La Giralda began life as a minaret and is all that's left of the city's Great Mosque, destroyed to build the cathedral.

The Alcázar opposite the cathedral was begun by the Moors in 712 and redesigned after the Christian Reconquest by Pedro I in ornate Mudéjar style (blending Gothic and Muslim architectural elements). The rooms and salons are breathtaking, with fanciful embellishments such as intricate tiled walls and patterned ceilings.

Shaded by fragrant orange and lemon trees, the dreamy Alcázar gardens were pictured in the Game of Thrones series. Fans of this show may recognize the fountains from the Kingdom of Dorne's Water Gardens.

Bordering the Alcázar on the east is the Barrio de Santa Cruz , the former Judería (Jewish quarter), a neighborhood of whitewashed homes, iron balconies, and flower-filled courtyards.

One of the top tourist attractions in Madrid , the Prado alone ranks with the world's top art museums for the riches of its collections. But add the Reina Sofía National Art Museum , the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, and the CaixaForum , all along Madrid's mile-long, tree-shaded boulevard, and you have what may be the world's highest concentration of priceless art treasures. It's no wonder this is known as El Paseo del Arte, Boulevard of the Arts.

The Prado has the world's largest collection of Spanish art, an impressive continuum from 12th-century medieval works through the avant-garde movement of the early 20th century, and is especially noted for its works from Spain's golden age by El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya.

But its riches are not all Spanish; other highlights are the medieval murals and retablos, paintings by Flemish and Dutch artists (be sure to see the fantasy world of Hieronymus Bosch and works by Rubens and Brueghel), and Italian art (Botticelli, Raphael, Correggio, Titian, and Tintoretto).

Highlights of the Museo Reina Sofía's impressive 20,000-piece collection are Picasso's Guernica and works by Miró, Dalí, Dubuffet, Braque, Serra, Calder, and Magritte.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial, about 45 kilometers northwest of Madrid, was the summer home of Spain's kings, and in 1563, work was begun here on a huge complex, which would include a monastery, church, royal palace, mausoleum, library, and museum, all conceived as a monument to Philip II and his reign.

The result is a staggering collection of attractions, built around 16 courtyards, its rooms and structures connected by 16 kilometers of corridors. At its core is the church, the highlight of which is Herrera's 30-meter-high retablo, made of jasper and red marble and approached by a flight of 17 steps.

Along with the vaulted and frescoed ceilings by Tibaldi in the rooms off the lower cloister, highlights of the monastery are the Panteón de los Reyes (the Baroque burial vault of the Spanish kings) and the library , a grand room also adorned with Tibaldi frescoes .

In the palace, be sure to see the Bourbon Suite, where the state apartments of Charles IV are decorated with rare furnishings and 338 tapestries. Beyond are the art-filled private apartments of Philip II. The Picture Gallery below has a large collection of fine paintings, including works by Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, Velázquez, and El Greco.

Official site: https://el-escorial.com

You really have to see this building to believe it - no photograph has ever done justice to this symphony of shapes, so alive that they seem ready to take wing. American architect Frank Gehry used blocks of limestone and undulating sheets of titanium to turn the notion of modern architecture on its ear.

So thoroughly did he succeed that two new terms were born from it: "The Bilbao Effect" - the ability of a city to turn its fortunes around by constructing a single world-class building - and "architourism," a whole segment of the travel industry revolving around landmarks of contemporary architecture.

Inside the 24,000-square-meter galleries of the museum are temporary exhibitions and rotating displays of its own collections of modern art. Highlights include works by Anselm Kiefer, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Andy Warhol.

Besides the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao has other interesting cultural attractions : the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao (Museum of Fine Arts), the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the gourmet dining scene. Bilbao is renowned for its Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants, including Nerua in the Guggenheim Museum; Ola Martín Berasategui, which serves contemporary Spanish cuisine based on fresh market ingredients; and Atelier Etxanobe, which offers creative haute cuisine.

The magnificent cathedral of Santiago (St. James) in Santiago de Compostela was built to house and honor the relics of the saint, and it has been the ultimate destination of pilgrims since the Middle Ages. (Today, the historic town of Santiago de Compostela still draws modern-day pilgrims and also is a top travel destination in the Galicia region of Northern Spain ).

One of the outstanding monuments of Early Romanesque architecture, the cathedral was built between 1060 and 1211, and despite the Baroque transformation of the exterior in the 16th to 18th centuries, the interior is still in the purest Early Romanesque style.

You'll see both of these periods at play as you enter the west front, through one of Spain's most impressive church facades. Step inside to face the Pórtico de la Gloria , part of the old west front now concealed by the 18th-century facade. This triple doorway is one of the largest and most magnificent collections of Romanesque sculpture in the world.

The focal point of the interior is the elaborately decorated Capilla Mayor , built over the Apostle's tomb. In the center of the high altar of jasper, alabaster, and silver is a 13th-century wooden figure of the Apostle, richly adorned in precious metals and gems.

On either side, narrow staircases lead up behind the figure so that pilgrims can kiss the Apostle's cloak - culminating their pilgrimage. In a crypt under the altar, the Apostle's remains are in a silver casket.

The throbbing heartbeat of Spain's vibrant capital city, Plaza Mayor has played an important part in Madrid's everyday life since the 16th century, when Philip II entrusted the task of designing it to his favorite architect Juan de Herrera, builder of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Today one of the top cultural attractions of Madrid, the Plaza Mayor has for centuries served as the stage for ceremonial events – the proclamation of a new king, the canonization of saints, the burning of heretics – and public entertainment such as chivalric tournaments and bullfights.

The cafés spilling out onto the plaza's pedestrian-only stone pavement, and the restaurants shaded under its arcades are Madrid's living room, popular meeting places for Madrileños and tourists alike.

As the center of Madrid's social life, the area around the Plaza Mayor is one of the best places to stay in Madrid.

Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 to celebrate the various regions of Spain, the Plaza de España is an impressive semi-circular pavilion surrounded by colonnades. Beautiful panels of colorful decorative tiles representing each of Spain's provinces are set overlooking the long pool, which is crossed by bridges. It's a popular place to visit for a stroll or to row a rental boat around the pool and under the bridges.

The Plaza de España is the focal point of the vast Parque de María Luisa, a half mile of gardens, lawns, and shaded walks stretching alongside the river opposite central Seville. You can rent a pedal car or ride though in a horse-drawn carriage. Busy any day, on Sundays the park overflows with families.

The best way to see the giant trees, flower beds, pools, gazebos, and the man-made rock mountain with a waterfall is to stroll through the park, following the side paths into hedge-surrounded gardens. At the far end of the park, you'll find a small but rich archeology museum with Visigoth jeweled crosses and ancient gold work.

When Valencia diverted the course of the river that had repeatedly flooded the city, it was left with a broad, flat riverbed spanned by bridges. It was upon this clean palette that the brilliant Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava created a breathtaking ensemble of structures that have become a magnet for aficionados of contemporary architecture.

Not only the buildings, but the museums, arts venues, and aquarium (by Félix Candela and the only building not designed by Calatrava) form a series of tourist attractions in Valencia that rank among Spain's most popular.

Europe's largest oceanographic aquarium, L'Oceanogràfic, was built in the shape of a water lily with buildings dedicated to different aquatic environments from the tropics to the poles.

The largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is best known for the golden-sand beaches that line most of its southern coast. Playa de Las Canteras is in the capital city of Las Palmas, popular with families for its calm waters, protected by a natural breakwater of volcanic rock.

The largest beach, and the liveliest, is the Playa del Inglés at Maspalomas, which abounds with cafés, restaurants, shops, play parks, and other amusements. At one end is one of the archipelago's natural wonders, a vast protected area of gigantic sand dunes. These reach as high as 12 meters and are constantly shifting as they are shaped by the wind and the sea. To complete the desert illusion, you can ride through this desolate and other-worldly landscape on a camel.

The water is relatively warm on this coast, and so clear that it's popular with divers. There's an underwater park at Arinaga and diving schools at Playa del Inglés and several other places along the coast. Or you can see the fish and other sea life from a cruise on a glass-bottomed boat. The south coast is also popular for windsurfing and sailing.

Read More: Top Things to Do on Gran Canaria

Strolling along La Rambla on a summer evening, you might think that every single one of Barcelona's inhabitants was there with you. It's definitely the place to be after work on a summer evening or on a weekend. This tree-lined boulevard cuts a green line - not a very straight one - through the city center, stretching northwest from the Columbus Memorial near the port.

The section to the Plaça de Catalunya is lined with plane trees, its wide pedestrian zone flanked by a narrow road on each side. Along with its flower and bird markets, La Rambla has a number of book and newspaper stands, as well as restaurants and cafés with open-air tables. Pavement artists, street musicians, living statues, and impromptu performers all add to its lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of La Rambla is the Mercat de la Boqueria (91 Rambla), a traditional covered marketplace that sells fresh produce, meat, fish, bread, cheese, and other specialty foods. Locals come here to shop for ingredients to prepare home-cooked meals. Tourists will appreciate the chance to sample regional delicacies served at the market's tapas bars.

Long a destination for sun-starved northern Europeans, the Costa del Sol is a seemingly unending stretch of beaches and cities along Spain's southwestern Mediterranean coastline. The summer weather here is exceptional, with long, hot days, and steamy fun-filled nights.

Must-see cities along this stretch include the glitzy and glamourous Marbella with its famous harbor chock full of luxury yachts, and Malaga , with its restored downtown and the stunning Alcazaba perched on the hilltop. If you prefer something a bit smaller, check out the small-town charms of Neerja.

Fun cities aside, it's the beaches that are the major draw here. The soft, golden sand lapped by azure waters makes it almost impossible not to go swimming. In fact, the Costa del Sol is home to many of Spain's best beaches , each with their own special vibe.

One of the highlights of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has many attractions . But El Teide is what makes the island truly special.

The highest peak in Spain, this ancient - but still simmering - volcano is also one of Europe's top natural wonders. The Pico del Teide and the Caldera de las Cañadas, a gigantic volcanic crater, together form the Parque Nacional del Teide , at the center of the island of Tenerife. In listing the park in 2007, UNESCO cited its natural beauty and "its importance in providing evidence of the geological processes that underpin the evolution of oceanic islands."

You can explore El Teide in several ways. You can drive or hike across the inside of the caldera - the crater floor - 12 miles in diameter and a barren moonscape of colored rock formations that's like driving into the center of the earth. You can climb El Teide's cone, but an easier way to get close to the top is by an eight-minute cable car ride . On a clear day, views cover the entire archipelago and can extend to North Africa - the nearest land mass to the Canary Islands.

Read More: Best Beaches on Tenerife

Toledo is a fantastic city to wander around and get lost in its narrow streets. The layout of the town, with its irregular pattern of streets and numerous blind alleys, reflects its Moorish past, and the architecture of the Christian period is represented by the numerous churches, convents, and hospices. This makes the Casco Histórico (Old Town) a kind of open-air museum, illustrating the history of Spain, and it has been listed by UNESCO as part of mankind's cultural heritage.

Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture mingle and blend into a city that El Greco captured in one of his most famous paintings. High on a granite hill and surrounded on three sides by the deep gorge of the Tagus River, the medieval city of Toledo presents a stunning profile; approaching it from below is an unforgettable sight.

With its richly decorated interior, the splendid Gothic Catedral de Toledo is one of Toledo's top tourist attractions , and the two synagogues in the atmospheric old Judería (Jewish quarter) are ornate in the Moorish style. While in the Judería, be sure to see the church of Santo Tomé for its El Greco masterpiece.

You can easily visit Toledo as a day trip from Madrid (just an hour away by train), but it's also a nice place to spend a night, so you can linger later into the day and soak up the atmosphere in the evening.

Poised like dabs of white frosting atop the steep crags of southern Andalucía, the White Towns (Pueblos Blancos) are not just beautiful, they speak of this region's long and fascinating history. West of Gibraltar, mountains rise straight from the sea, and among them hide these hilltop whitewashed towns.

Most spectacular is Arcos de la Frontera , whose plaza beside the Gothic church ends vertiginously in a 137-meter cliff, affording views across a valley of olive, orange, and almond orchards. Its maze of winding cobbled streets lead past cafes and craft shops selling ceramics and pottery to a Moorish castle.

A total of 19 of these villages of small white houses are in the area around the Grazalema Nature Reserve. Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra are two others worth seeing. A good base in the region is Jerez de la Frontera , home of flamenco and Andalucian thoroughbreds. Watch these horses' precision ballet at the Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art, and for authentic flamenco, visit Centro Cultural Flamenco .

One of the most photographed towns is Setenil de las Bodegas , where many of the buildings are built into or beneath the rock walls.

• Read More: Top Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) of Andalusia

Ibiza is well known the world over as a place to come to have a good time in the sun. Blessed with exceptional beaches and lively towns, the island has been attracting a youthful set for decades. During the day Ibiza's beaches are packed with people enjoying the sun and surf, and at night certain areas are entertainment hotspots where DJs spin the latest tunes.

However, what many people don't know is that Ibiza is also a great place to soak up some history. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets into the UNESCO-listed old quarter of Dalt Vila where you'll find a surprising number of well-preserved Gothic Catalan buildings. Up above it all is the fortress, offering stunning views.

If you up for a bit of adventure away from the crowds, head to the tranquil coves of Portinatx. Lay your towel out on the soft sand and enjoy the peace and quiet.

The ancient city of Ronda is one of the highlights of a visit to Spain's Andalucia region. Perched impossibly on a rocky outcrop complete with a historical bridge and well-preserved old town, this city just begs to be photographed.

Ronda is exceptionally easy to walk around, many of the major sights are a short stroll from one another including the Puente Nuevo bridge over the 100-meter-deep Tajo de Ronda gorge, the Plazas de Toros bullring, and La Cuidad, the old Moorish town center.

Spend a day wandering the sights and then settling into a prime patio seat on the Plaza del Socorro. Fans of Ernst Hemingway may recognize certain areas from his book For Whom the Bell Tolls.

More on Spain

50 Famous Landmarks in Spain

Discover Spain’s most famous landmarks – 50 spots you should add to your travel bucket list. 

Spain is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world, not only because of its unique landmarks but also because of its rich culture. 

Throughout the ages, Spain’s history has bequeathed incredible museums, mosques, and castles to the country you see today. 

Discover 50 of the country’s most striking best landmarks. 

How many have you visited? 

Famous Landmarks in Spain 

Guggenheim, bilbao.

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is one attraction that you won’t soon forget – in no small part thanks to the stunning Frank Gehry architecture in which it’s housed. Go inside to find an exciting array of modern art from well-known and up and coming names. 

The museum paved the way for a host of other striking designs in Bilbao and helped establish its position at the forefront of contemporary architecture. 

Royal Palace, Madrid

The Royal Palace in Madrid is one of the very few private residences for heads of state that is open to the public. It covers an impressive 135,000 square metres and has more than 3400 rooms. Inside, you’ll find lots of treasures and art to pique your interest. 

PS. There’s also a LOT of gilt – quiet and unassuming it is not. 

Plaza Mayor, Madrid

Dating back to the 15th century, the grand Plaza Mayor in Madrid is one of the country’s best-known landmarks thanks to its size and the ornate buildings that line its periphery. 

It was built during the reign of King Philip III and you’ll still find a statue of him there today, along with the frescoed Casa de la Panadería. 

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

The basilica known as the Sagrada Familia is an extraordinary spot that you have to visit whenever you go to Barcelona. The outrageously dramatic building designed by Antoni Gaudi is finally close to completion, so there’s never been a better time to grab an eyeful. 

Masses are open to the public every Sunday at 9am, and they are free of charge but also have limited capacity. 

Parc Guell, Barcelona

One of the most interesting things about this park is its architecture, which is both unique and colourful. It truly offers something for everyone and is the perfect place to spend the day with family or friends. It is also very large at 170,000 square metres. 

The park is open from 9:30am to 7:30pm and tickets start at just £8.50.

Alcazar, Seville

This 10th century palace was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987, and is filled with patios, halls, and rooms that are dotted with ancient artefacts and artwork. 

Despite having an ever-growing collection of nicknames, the Reales Alcazares is a collection of many palaces, built over a long period of time. Some of the most impressive features on the site include a tiled altar dating back to 1504, the Patio of Maidens with its beautiful tiled walls, and even a stucco palace. 

Ticket prices start at around £17 for adults.

Las Setas, Seville

This architectural wonder, lovingly nicknamed The Mushrooms, is unlike any other building that you’ll have ever seen. 

The funky fungi opened in 2011 and aimed to provide some much needed shade over a carpark in the Seville heat. It has since become a structure that many visit to marvel at. 

Six parasols connect the 150 metre-long structure, which actually makes it the largest wooden building in the world. Head up to the balconies to enjoy views of the city and the light shows that highlight every part of it. 

It’s open daily from 9:30am to 12am, and tickets start at just £4.25.

Seville Cathedral

Situated near the Giralda Tower and the Salvador Church, Seville’s cathedral is well-worthy of its UNESCO heritage status. It is open from 10:45am to 6:30pm on most days. Snag yourself an £8.50 admission ticket and see all three of the impressive spots within walking distance of each other.

When it was finally completed in the 16th century, the cathedral overtook Hagia Sophia as the largest in the world – and it remained that way for over 1000 years. Whilst today the cathedral is fourth biggest (though, this is debated), Seville Cathedral still holds the title of largest gothic church in the world. Pretty cool, we think.

Bullring Ronda

While we would skip on the actual bullfight, Bullring Rona is the best place to learn all about this controversial aspect of Spain’s history. 

Whilst bullfighting occurs here rarely, the bullring is nowadays more used as a museum and horse riding school, with a heavy focus on the preservation of the ring.

General admission tickets are around £7, and the facility is open 10am to 3pm and 4 to 6pm every day except Monday.

Ronda Bridge

At 216 feet long and 322 feet high, Ronda Bridge is not only a spectacular-looking structure but is also a practical bridge that divides the older and newer parts in the city of Ronda. 

This magnificent bridge took 34 years to complete but was finally finished in 1793. It even has a chamber located right above the central arch, which overlooks the breathtaking gorge below.

Alhambra, Granada

This Alhambra complex in Granada is made up of not just one palace but a total of six palaces and two tower palaces, which are set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Not only is it a beautiful place to explore, but the area is seeped in Arab and Spanish history. 

The area was originally built upon in 1238 by Muhammad I Ibn al-Ahmar, the first Nasrid emir, though many other Spanish leaders have added to the fortress throughout history – including the infamous joint rulers Ferdinand II and Isabella I.

Head to the museum and enjoy the stunning scenery, which includes verdant greenery and cosy enclaves. The facility is open from 8:30am to 8:00pm and general admission tickets are sold for around £12.

Aqueduct of Segovia

The aqueduct in Segovia is a total of 15 kilometres long and gets its water from the Revenga Reservoir. It’s a fascinating site to see and is divided into three parts, the last of which ends beneath the streets of the historical quarter in Segovia. It is a popular day trip from Madrid .

There is no charge to view it and it is naturally open 24/7.

Burgos Cathedral

Located in the historic centre of Burgos and open most days from 8:30am to 12pm and again from 6:30pm to 8:00pm, this is a magnificent Catholic church filled with chapels, gates, cloisters, and chapter houses.

A shining example of Spanish Gothic architecture, the dreamy spires alone are worth a visit. Though, interestingly enough, it’s the only UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s independent and isn’t associated with a nearby town.

Mezquita Cordoba

With plenty of areas to marvel at, including not only the mosque itself but also the bell tower, the Soul of Cordoba tour, and the Route of the Fernandina Churches tour, the Mezquita in Cordoba is an exquisite mosque that people of all faiths can enjoy.

The regal staircases, chandeliers, and columns are nothing short of stunning, and it costs just £9.35 for a general admission ticket.

Prado Madrid

Madrid’s Prado Museum is Spain’s top art museum, often referred to as a museum of painters (rather than paintings).

This heavy focus on classic and contemporary artists means that there are always numerous exhibitions to enjoy – some of the current ones include Murillo’s The Prodigal Son , Forty Years of Friendship , and One-hundred Years of Images , which includes hundreds of photographs commemorating the history of this amazing facility. 

It’s open from 10am to 8pm on most days and you can get a general admission ticket for around £12.75.

Bodega Ysios

Nestled in the hills of Sierra Cantabria, Bodega Ysios is a beautiful winery – and among the most famous in Spain – that offers everything from wine-tasting events to private tours of the facility . 

Sip Rioja as you’re surrounded by stunning scenery, or get up close and personal with the winemakers on a solo tour. Whether you just enjoy the occasional glass or are a full-blown vino queen, heading to a Spanish vineyard is a must. 

Prices start at around £21 and are therefore very reasonable, but this is more than just your run-of-the-mill winery. It is a boutique winery that is open from 10am to 5pm daily.

Merida Roman Ruins

Spain is home to a staggering number of Roman ruins, but the ruins in Merida are among the best and include the excavated remains of a theatre that was once used for gladiator contests. Nearby ruins include aqueducts, amphitheatres, and even places where circuses were once held. 

Some claim that it takes two full days to enjoy these extraordinary sites (though we think one is reasonable), and you’ll likely be amazed at the great overall condition most of the ruins are in.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia

Also known as the City of Arts and Sciences, the Valencia science complex is open 365 days a year and opens daily at 10am. Step away from historic ruins and enter into the futuristic works of scientists and artists alike. 

Expect live performances, an IMAX theatre, an aquarium, and a beautiful landscaped park area. General admission tickets cost around £7.

Costa de la Luz

Costa de la Luz, or Coast of Light, is located on the western side of the Andalucia coastline that faces the Atlantic. The beach is nothing short of extraordinary with its crystal-clear turquoise water and hidden coves. 

The coast sits amongst a backdrop made out of sand dunes and pine trees, and you can rent nearby inns if you wish to stay overnight.

Museo Picasso, Málaga

As the name suggests, Museu Picasso is completely devoted to all things Picasso. The Spaniard is widely renowned as one of the best artists the world has ever seen, pioneering the movements of cubism and surrealism, among many others. 

The museum is open most days from 11am to 6pm and offers tons of artwork, educational programmes, concerts, and it even has a bookstore in case you’d like to shop after taking a tour of the place. 

Tickets cost roughly £10.

Alcazaba, Málaga

This huge fortress is one site you’ll want to see when you visit this area of southern Spain. Overlooking the ocean, the luscious site was built by the Hammudid dynasty in the early 11th century – to date it is the best-preserved alcazaba in the whole of Spain.

We highly recommend taking a tour of the interesting history and architecture of the Alcazaba. 

Camp Nou, Barcelona

Translated to mean “New Ground,” Camp Nou is a premier sports stadium that is home to numerous teams in the area, including football, basketball, baseball, and lots of women’s sports. 

It was completed in 1957 and replaced a smaller stadium – this one, in fact, has a capacity of more than 99,000 people. It costs £22 and up to enter, and you can even snag yourself a patch of turf (touched by the likes of Messi, no doubt) as a souvenir.

Casa Milà, Barcelona

Much like with Park Guell, Gaudi left a number of interesting architectural feats dotted across Barcelona – and Casa Milà is among the most popular. 

Gaudi’s buildings are architectural wonders and you won’t be able to stop looking at them – some look like people while others have magnificent sloping staircases and are fitted with unusual shaped windows. 

Bone-white materials and skullish features make Gaudi’s work instantly recognisable, you can snap a shot from the outside of Casa Milà or head inside to discover more about the architect for £23.

Font Màgica de Montjuïc, Barcelona

Translated to mean Magic Fountain, this outdoor fountain puts on a real show. It actually holds 2600 litres of water and has been in it’s idyllic location since 1929.

Colour, light, motion, and song come together to create an unforgettable choreographed routine throughout the day. Head there early to get a good spot – we love sitting on the steps to the left of the fountain. 

La Rambla, Barcelona

Potentially one of the most famous streets in the entirety of Spain (and certainly in Barcelona), La Rambla connects the Placa de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus monument at Port Vell. 

It’s roughly 1.2 kilometres long and is a beautiful tree-lined street that is both fascinating to explore and full of photo spots (and a mix of high end and high street shops). 

Be warned: it can get very busy, but there’s no better place to experience the vibrant Spanish culture.

Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Another stunning building created by Gaudi, this architectural masterpiece combines abstract shapes, unique designs, and lots of colours to create a unique house that catches the eye. 

Bursting with 2000 square metres of space on the property, it’s even been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll spot the hordes of tourists snapping a photo as you wander along the street below.

It’s open every day from 9am to 8pm and tickets for the museum start at around £30, though snapping photos from the outside is gratis.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid

Eclectic is this art gallery’s middle name. Home to a collection like no other: oil paintings, photography, film series, and a range of other mediums are on display. 

Open daily from 10am to 8pm with shorter hours on Sundays, the gallery features artists such as photographer Michael Schmidt and artist Vivian Suter. 

Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela

From artwork to statues and even decorative artefacts, this gorgeous Santiago cathedral is an amalgamation of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is thought to be the burial place for St. James the Great, an apostle of Jesus Christ, and is one of only three remaining churches to be built over an apostle’s tomb. Because of this, many tourists far and wide make a pilgrimage to this Cathedral, which seats a total of 1200 people. 

Plaza de Espana, Seville

One thing’s for sure: you’ve never seen a town square like the Plaza de Espana in Seville. 

It was originally built for the Spanish-American Exhibition of 1929 and consists of a semi-circular lake, tiled benches that symbolise the 49 provinces of Spain, a coffered ceiling, and brick structures, to name a few of the standout features. 

Bring your camera and get your pose on. The plaza is open daily for visitors from 8am to 10pm.

Muralla de Avila, Avila

Muralla de Avilla is a curious but beautiful structure. Looking somewhat like a city within a city, a whole host of walls enclose around the outside of an irregular area.

What began life as a defensive wall with strict purpose was soon rebuilt with aesthetics in mind – from artistic and ornately decorated brick to 3D walls complete with gates and turret-like structures. 

Muralla de Avila is open daily from 10am to 3pm and from 5pm to 11pm.

El Escorial, Toledo

Designed by the Spanish architect Toledo, the El Escorial is a magnificent residence for the King of Spain located near Madrid. King Phillip II ordered for this fortress to be built between 1563 and 1584 – it is known to be the largest Renaissance building in the world and is just one of the many Spanish Royal sites still in use today. 

The site consists of two main buildings: the Monastery and the hunting lodge. Though, there is also a palace, library, school, hospital, and museum, among plenty of other impressive buildings. 

The library is particularly famous, featuring stunning painted ceilings and marvellous gilded accents.

Atocha Railway Station, Madrid

Despite terrorists damaging a number of the trains coming into the station in March of 2004,  Atocha Railway Station is still the largest (and prettiest) in the capital. The glass and iron architecture that makes up the building makes it worth a visit alone. 

It also houses a botanical garden spanning 2000 square metres, and the workers even pump moist air into the centre of the station to keep the palms, ferns, and banana trees thriving. 

Practical and beautiful, we like.

Altamira Caves, Cantabria

Located just 2 kilometres from Santillana del Mar, these 14,000-year-old cave paintings of animals give you a glimpse into Spain’s palaeolithic past. 

These fascinating caves have been awarded UNESCO status and the artwork on the walls depict prehistoric scenes of deer, bison, wild boar, and more. 

Their visiting hours vary by season but tickets cost around £2.50.

Roman Walls (Lugo)

Despite the fact that Lugo’s Roman walls were built in the 3rd century to protect the town from Germanic attackers, they’re still in pretty decent shape today. You know, considering the wall’s sole purpose was to take a battering.

Stretching across 2 kilometres around the town, there are 10 gates in total as well as 49 original towers still standing proudly. Visiting in the day is ideal for transport links, though exploring the area in the evening has a fun, eerie feel.

Roman Remains of Tarragona

Of all of the Roman remains in the entirety of Spain, the remains inside this UNESCO World Heritage City in Costa Daurada are the most intact. In fact, the area was widely considered as the Rome of Spain, and was home to the oldest Roman settlement in the Iberian region.

Once a thriving city in Roman times, the site today consists of 13 ruins – including a 2nd century CE amphitheatre (famed for holding Gladiator battles and public executions), a Roman forum, and Roman walls. 

Tower of Hercules, La Coruna

For more than 1900 years, the Tower of Hercules has been a beacon on the north-western Spanish coastline, attracting the attention of anyone who is in the general vicinity. 

It was believed to have been first built as an offering to Mars, the Roman god of war, and is an exact replica of the Pharos of Alexandria. Though, plenty of mystery surrounding the lighthouse remains.

It’s open from 10am to 9pm. Rumour has it you can even spot Ireland from the tower, though you’ll have to visit on a clear day to find out for yourself….

Tibidabo Cathedral

The complexity of this cathedral is demonstrated by the fact that it took two generations of architects to complete it. 

The cathedral sits on Tibidabo Hill overlooking Barcelona and consists of gorgeous stonework, eye-catching stain-glass windows, a crypt, and some platforms that you can use to get some pretty stunning views of the city.

Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias

If you love to nerd out over architecture (we are guilty ), you’ll love this UNESCO World Heritage gem in the northern Spanish town of Oviedo. 

Dating back to the 9th century, these monuments are six pre-Romanesque structures – they’re nothing short of spectacular and represent a time when Christianity ruled over the Iberian Peninsula. In near-perfect condition, may we add.

Get your camera ready before you go.

Antequera, Andalusia

With its megalithic tombs that date back to the Bronze and Neolithic Ages, Antequera is home to some of the best-preserved dolmens in all of Europe. 

While you’re there, look for the natural monuments known as El Torcal and Lover’s Rock: two of the best natural landmarks in the country.

Torre de Cerredo (Picos de Europa)

Located to the west of Bilbao, the Torre de Cerredo mountain is the highest peak in Picos de Europa, also known as the Peaks of Europe. It stands at an impressive 2650 metres and is part of the mountain range on the north coast of Spain. 

It’s a fairly difficult climb to the summit, though even the most modest of climbers should be A-ok with the help of a friendly guide. Limestone peaks and plunging gorges make this one location that you need to have on your Spain bucket list.

Monte Perdido (Pyrenees)

At a majestic height of 3355 metres, Monte Perdido is the third-highest mountain in the Pyrenees range, and even though it straddles both Spain and France, Spain has the deepest and largest canyons. 

Even if you don’t fancy hiking all the way up to the top (we don’t blame you), the surrounding National Park offers stunning, undisturbed views of the region. The mountain summit is also found on the Spanish side.

Palacio Real

As one of the most famous palaces in Spain, this palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although the building is only really used for state ceremonies today.  

Construction of this massive Madrid palace began in the 9th century, though it has since gone through a hefty amount of renovation. This is an Italian baroque-style building boasting famous Spanish antiquities and impressive suits of armour part of the attractions.

Visitors can wander through a set route which, thanks to having over 2800 rooms, changes regularly. It’s open from 10am to 6pm (or 4pm, depending on the season), and the tickets are around £10.

Real Madrid Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

Despite what you would believe, the Bernabeu Stadium on the outskirts of Madrid isn’t just for sporting events such as football and basketball. You can also go there to enjoy concerts, lectures, conventions and so much more. 

Tours of the facility itself start at around £10, and the stadium seats more than 81,000 people, so its sheer size is impressive.

Flamenco Dancing in Madrid

The Flamenco dance is one of the cultural landmarks that people look forward to most when they visit Spain. The singing, dancing, and guitar performance make up the three artistic elements of this dance, and you can enjoy it in all it’s passionate glory in numerous places all across the country.

Corral de la Morería is one of the more famous spots to catch Flamenco dancing in Madrid – the list of those who have previously attended spans A-list celebrities and US Presidents.

Tapas bars are popular all throughout Spain, so it’s easy to nibble your way through the country and enjoy foods such as cured meats, albondigas (meatballs), bacalao (cod), chorizo, and our favourite, spicy patatas bravas.  

If you love to eat, find a tapas bar and go crazy!

Palau de la Música Catalana, Barcelona

Barcelona’s Palau de la Música Catalana is a gem of a concert hall. Seating over 2100 people, it’s worth taking a tour of the place (even if you don’t fancy attending a concert here). 

Not only is the inside of the hall beautiful, with stained glass and gilded accents adorning the walls, the venue is in the style of Catalan Art Nouveau and is the only concert hall in this style to be awarded UNESCO status.

The prices and hours change depending on what you go there to see, but one thing is for sure: you won’t leave disappointed.

Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona

Nestled between the Barcelona Zoo and the Arc de Triomf, this amazing park has tons of open green space to explore. 

The park was created in the late 1800s, and still acts as a verdant haven tucked away in the busy city centre. Relax with a book on the grass or take a wander past waterfalls, a fascinating museum, a boating lake, magnificent sculptures, and lots of pathways to walk or jog on.

Siam Park, Tenerife, Canary Islands

If exploring historical sites is less your thing, but thrill seeking sounds a lot more fun, Siam Park in Tenerife needs to be added to your bucket list. ASAP.

This 46-acre park consists of 20+ rides and attractions, including an aquarium and a water park that has been named one of the best in the world. Opt to casually float down the lazy river or descend the Tower of Power in a rush of adrenaline – either way, you’re in for a treat.

It’s open daily from 10am to 6pm and costs £22+ to enter.

Tips for Visiting Spain’s Landmarks 

• If you’re travelling to Spain for the first time and just want to see the major sites, Madrid and Barcelona are your go-to’s. If you’re looking to delve a bit deeper and are keen to see the major architectural sites, you’ll want to either head north to the area surrounding Bilbao or south towards Seville. Or, push the boat out and cover both – flights between the two are relatively cheap and take around an hour.
• Travelling around Spain via public transport is relatively easy and budget friendly – i.e. trains between Barcelona and Madrid are less than 3 hours long. However, if you’re looking to go off the beaten track or head to an island, flying and/or renting a car might be your best bet.

Spain Landmarks: Map

Looking For More Spain Guides?

• Cool Things To Do In Spain 
• The Perfect Spain Itinerary 
• Brilliant Places to Visit in Madrid
• What to do in Granada, Spain

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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30+ Famous Landmarks in Spain You Can´t Miss

Posted by Anna | Feb 22, 2022 | Spain Bucket List , Historical sites in Spain | 10

Check this ultimate list of famous landmarks in Spain. Here you´ll find everything from historical monuments to natural wonders – all the unique sights you simply can´t miss across the Iberian Peninsula.

• This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read  my disclosure . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Before Spain turned into my home country, it used to be my all-time favorite travel destination.

I still remember those times when I was searching for new landmarks in Spain myself. So, if Spain is a relatively new travel destination for you – I´m a bit jealous: you´re about to discover some authentic architectural marvels and historical gems.

Nevertheless, despite my 15 expat years in Spain , I´m still daydreaming of new Spanish hidden gems and unique experiences to cross off my Spain Bucket List . So, there´s no shortage of beautiful landmarks in Spain.

Most of the Spanish landmarks blog posts I found so far, mainly focus on all the Gaudi sites and Madrid museums, but let me reassure you – Spain´s cultural heritage goes far beyond that. Don´t you ever settle for Madrid or Barcelona !

In this post, I tried to collect the most iconic national landmarks in Spain alongside some lesser-known alternatives located nearby, so that you could make the most of your trip to Spain and leave no stone unturned!

Table of Contents

Top 30 famous landmarks in Spain

1. the historic city of toledo.

While most travelers admit without any second thought that Toledo was a highlight of their Spanish vacation, I´ll go further by calling the city one of my favorite places in Spain .

The city of Toledo is a real-life open-air museum, full of ancient art, glorious history, and vibrant medieval architecture. The Spanish TV show Toledo (2012) portrays this unique Spanish town as the “City of  Three Cultures” – the Islamic, the Jewish, and the Christian. Consequently, Toledo´s 3 main neighborhoods are the Jewish Quarter, the Christian/Roman Quarter, and the Muslim Quarter. So, you can´t give me an argument on the fact that this unique multicultural heritage gives the city a unique look and feel.

Toledo is conveniently located 30 minutes away from Madrid. The fastest way to get from Madrid to Toledo is by train from the Atocha station. Alternatively, you can travel by car or by bus.

Top main sights in Toledo you can’t miss: El Alcázar , La Catedral Primad a, Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes , Museo de Santa Cruz , Puerta de Bisagra , Mirador del Valle , Sinagoga de Santa Maria Blanca , Puente de Alcantara , Iglesia de Santo Tomé , Plaza de Zocodover , Iglesia de los Jesuitas , Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz , Museo del Greco .

Also, Toledo is home to one of the most famous Spanish Love Legends – The Story of the Bitter Well of Toledo.

2. The Alhambra of Granada

The Alhambra of Granada needs no introduction for any passionate traveler. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the top wonders of the modern world, and subsequently one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.

No wonder this unique sight literally opens every list of the top places to visit in Andalusia .

Granada´s Alhambra is an extremely elegant and unique example of Moorish architecture, the memorable evidence of Arab presence in Spain for more than 700 years. While it was built on the ruins of a Roman fortress, the modern look of the palace could be traced back to the times of the Nasrid Dynasty (XXII century).

The only warning here – book your ticket in advance, as the number of daily entrants is limited. Your sightseeing tour of Granada´s Alhambra will depend on your ticket. It will include  Palacios Nazaries : the Royal Palace, the Palace of Ceremonial Rooms, and the Palace of the Lions, but you might also pay a visit to  Palacio de Carlo   V , Generalife Gardens, and  Fundacion Rodriguez-Acosta .

3. La Sagrada Familia and Gaudi Architecture in Barcelona

La Sagrada Familia is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain and Barcelona´s international visiting card. While it is a must-stop on every Spain Bucket list, you can currently visit Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece virtually at sagradafamilia.org . Very much like in Woody Allen´s movie Vicky Cristina Barcelona(2008), the enchantment with Gaudi´s fantastical creations keeps attracting millions of visitors to Catalonia. Blog subscribers don´t forget your Free Gaudi Checklist pdf.

Other impressive Gaudi landmarks in Barcelona are Park Guell, La Pedrera, Las Farolas del Pla de Palau, Puerta de la Finca Miralles, Colegio de las Teresianas, Casa Calvet, Bellesguard, Casa Vicens, Palacio Guell, Pabellones Guell, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, Casa-museo Gaudi.

Even though you might already have enough locations for a Gaudi-themed weekend in Barcelona, keep in mind that Catalonia has even more architectural landmarks created by the famous genius, like Misterio de Montserrat, Cripta Guell, Estandrte de Sant Feliu de Corines, Cooperativa Obrera Mataronense, Bodegas Guell de Garrf, Jardines Artigas (La Pobla de Lillet).

Not to mention Mallorca´s Cathedral and Casa de los Botines , El Capricho de Comillas , and Palacio Episcopal de Astorga (in the Spanish province of Castile and Leon).

Even though no one can possibly deny the artistic significance of Gaudi´s artworks, I find that Sagrada Familia is a lot like The Portuguese Sintra – people either love it or completely dislike it. Like George Orwell once called the cathedral “one of the most hideous buildings in the world”. So, which side are you on?

4. The Royal Palace in Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest one in the whole of Western Europe, with its 3418 rooms and 135,000 square meters of territory. As one of the top European monarchies, Spain is known for its far-reaching history of royals and a huge number of dreamy castles across the whole country.

Even though the Spanish royals do not currently reside in the palace, it is still one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. The Royal Palace in Madrid attracts almost 2 million visitors every year.

Madrid´s Palace is used by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain for audiences and official events. There are not so many official residences of Kings in Europe constantly open to the public. So, don´t miss your chance to visit this amazing Spanish landmark!

5. Museo Del Prado in Madrid

Museo Del Prado in Madrid is one of the world´s top cultural gems. Its unique collection of art could be traced back to the Catholic Kings of Spain, even though the museum itself was opened in 1819 as Museo Real de Pinturas.

All the way back to its opening, the Prado National Museum had only 311 art pieces, but over the next decade, the collection kept growing, while gathering exclusive paintings from lavish royal properties. In 1827 the museum was already housing more than 4000 paintings. Although the current exposition encounters around 1700 art pieces, the museum’s warehouse holds more than 27000 objects of art and history.

The main artistic names of Museo Del Prado are Goya, Velázquez, Rubens, Titian, and El Greco. You can enjoy the virtual tour of the Rubens exhibition at museodelprado.es

6. San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Another one of the epic landmarks in Spain is San Lorenzo de El Escorial , a beautiful ancient monastery built back in the 15th century. Besides unique architectural styles and decorations, the monastery covers an area of 33 327 square meters and sits in the Guadarrama mountain range at an altitude of 1028 meters.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and within its territory, you can find quite a few unique spaces like Los Panteones, Claustro Principal, Basilica, Salas Capitulares, Palacio de los Austrias, Palacio de lod Borbones, Sala de Batallas. However, as the bookworm that I am, my favorite is definitely the Library with its 400,000 unique ancient texts (including ancient manuscripts in Greek, Latin, Arab, and Hebrew).

Nearby San Lorenzo de El Escorial you can also visit La Herreria Forest and the Valley of the Fallen.

7. The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

Famous for its unique mix of architectural styles, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba ranks globally as one of the best places to visit in Andalusia .

The distinctive red and white arches take you back to the times when Muslims ruled Al-Andalus (modern Andalusia), including most of Spain and Portugal. It is impressive to see the two major religions increasing their footprint in the same place for hundreds of years. Not to mention the numerous  fascinating Spanish legends  surrounding the Cordoba´s Mosque.

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is definitely one of the most unique and  beautiful cathedrals in Spain .

8. The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the most important religious structures in Europe and one of the top Spanish cathedrals . No wonder it is an important UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the Spanish region of Galicia.

Its construction began in 1075 and went on throughout the 12th century with constant additions of new architectural styles and decorations.

This unique Spanish cathedral is the main pilgrimage destination on the famous 790 km-long  Camino de Santiago (or “Way of St James” in English) route. Many believe that walking this path could cause miracles and heal illnesses, so Catholics from all over the world walk hundreds of miles towards the cathedral each year in order to visit the tomb of Apostle Saint James the Elder.

According to the statistical data around 348,000 pilgrims made their walk towards The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral back in 2019.

This unique Spanish landmark is also available at turismo.gal for a virtual tour, which is quite awesome considering the fact that there´s often a huge line to access the Cathedral, as well as a limited number of entrants during the religious services.

The last time my husband was doing the part of Camino de Santiago route, he literally waited for almost 1h in a line and a few people before him the max limit of visitors was reached, so he couldn´t get in.

9. The Walls of Avila

The Walls of Avila are considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval walls in Europe and the city itself is one of Spain’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While many castles and medieval villages in Spain are surrounded by walls, most of them honestly pale in comparison with those of Avila.

Built at the end of the 11th century Avila´s walls were aimed to defend the local population against the Moorish threat. They look massive while stretching for 1,5 miles, with their 12m of height.

The Walls of Avila belong on the list of fairytale places in Spain . The picture you see was made from the  Cuatro Postes  viewpoint, which offers a fantastic view of the city and its walls. You can’t miss it because of the tourist buses around, but the stop is worth it anyway.

10. Ancient Roman Aqueduct of Segovia

The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most famous Roman ruins in Spain . Built around the 1st century A.D., the remains of the initial structure are 28,5m tall and 16km long. Archeologists claim that the Aqueduct of Segovia was once one of the biggest and most ambitious projects of its kind. It supplied water from the nearest Frio River source, 18 km from Segovia.

While it is definitely the most impressive one of the Spanish aqueducts left from the times of the Roman Empire, the remnants of smaller watercourses can be found across the Iberian Peninsula. For instance, while hiking near Valencia last time, I had a chance to walk over the  Aqueducto Romano de Peña Cortada . Also, Tarragona´s aqueduct is quite impressive .

While The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the top national landmarks in Spain, according to an ancient Spanish legend its creation was more than a Roman masterpiece – it was an evil project of the all-mighty Devil. So, even fans of mysterious places in Spain would have to place this unique landmark on their Spain Bucket list.

11. Alcazar of Segovia

The Alquezar of Segovia is one of the dreamiest Spanish castles , as well as an easy day trip from Madrid. It is said to have inspired Cinderella´s Castle, the eternal symbol of Disney. And there’s even more to the story here. Unlike many other Spanish castles that simply served as fortresses,  Alcazar de Segovia  was home to the Spanish Royalty and has never been defeated. 

Also read:  The Most Colorful Villages in Spain

The first written records of the Alcazar date back to the beginning of the XII century. This place was one of the favorite residences of the Crown of Castille in the Middle Ages before the Spanish Royal court moved to Madrid.

Alcazar of Segovia also has the oldest active military academy in the world.

12. The City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the top modern landmarks in Spain and the best tourist sights of Valencia city. It was designed by Spanish architect  Santiago Calatrava and inaugurated in 1998.

The cost of this unique futuristic structure has exceeded its initial budget four times, elevating the government´s investment to 1,282 mln euros.

The architectural marvel of The City of Arts and Sciences is located in the old riverbed of the river Turia. The City of Arts and Sciences is composed of six different buildings: El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, Ágora, El Palau de Les Arts Reina Sofía, L’Umbracle, Oceanografic, and L’Hemisfèric .

Numerous movies and TV shows were filmed inside The City of Arts and Sciences, including Tomorrowland: A World Beyond (2015), Westworld (2016) Season 3, and BBC´s Doctor Who.

As the region of Valencia has been my home for more than 15 years, I really suggest you set your eyes on Valencia day trips and follow my blog series Valencia Hidden Gems in order to explore more of this unique Spanish region.

Under the hashtag Valencia you can find lots of local travel tips and hidden gems of the region.

13. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Another famous Spanish landmark in the artsy world is Bilbao´s Guggenheim Museum, opened to the public in 1997. Even if you´re not a fan of modern and contemporary art, you can´t possibly deny the eye-catching shapes and forms of this avant-garde museum, created by the genius architect Frank Gehry.

Some of the biggest art pieces of Bilbao´s Guggenheim Museum include names like David Salle, Eduardo Chillida, Jeff Koons, Louis Bourgeous, Andy Warhol, Anselm Kiefer, and Robert Rauschenheim. The good news is that this Spanish landmark makes virtual travels possible with their online tour .

Guggenheim Museum is one of the most visited museums in Spain and a must-stop on every Basque Country Itinerary .

14. Don Quijote Windmills / Campo de Criptana

If you could pick only one thing that represents Spain internationally it would definitely be “Don Quixote”, a worldwide-famous Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes. Who’s not familiar with one of the world’s best-selling books of all time (500 million copies), an emblematic prototype of a modern novel?

Don Quixote by Miguel de  Cervantes  is an iconic read many of us might have underrated back at school. So, in case this tale of a Spanish knight driven mad and the story of his incredible adventures simply didn´t get under your skin before, now is about the time you should reconsider adding Don Quixote to your  list of wanderlust books .

The windmills of  Campo de Criptana  or the  Don Quixote Windmills  are often included on the list of the most famous landmarks in Spain. In the book, these were the gigantic knights Don Quixote was fighting with.

The next best thing I suggest to you is a Don Quixote road trip across the Spanish region of Castile-La Mancha , one of the most authentic Spanish Road Trips .

15. Abbey of Montserrat

Montserrat is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Spain and one of the best places to visit in the Catalonia region. The Abbey of Montserrat is a perfect Barcelona day trip . This place is all in one – beautiful, magical, and peaceful. Your visit is especially worth it if you take into consideration the otherworldly Spanish landscapes surrounding Montserrat.

The monastery was founded by Oliba, the Abbot of Ripoll and Bishop of Vic, back in 1025. Through centuries it kept growing and receiving more and more pilgrims searching for the miracle performance of the Virgin Mary ( or “ La Moreneta ” in Spanish). Many believe that if you touch the statue of the Virgin and ask for a wish – it will be granted to you.

16. Salamanca

You can hardly find another beautiful Spanish city that would equally combine a youthful environment with historical beauty. Salamanca is both a UNESCO World Heritage site and a town full of students (its university is one of the oldest in the whole of Europe).

Salamanca´s university was founded by King Alfonso IX in 1218 and was Spain´s first institution for higher education. Back in 1254, it was acknowledged by Pope Alexander IV as one of the world´s four greatest universities along with Oxford, Paris, and Bologna.

Also read:  Historical Valencia – The Borgia Route

The Cathedral of Salamanca is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain . In fact, it is composed of two churches joined together: The Old Cathedral (12th-13th centuries) is in the Romanesque style, and the New Cathedral (16th century) with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance elements.

On a more personal side, the city of Salamanca with its unique historic charm had partially impacted my future move to Spain. As a student, I lived in Salamanca for a month for my DELE exam preparation course.

17. The Cathedral of Burgos

The Cathedral of Burgos is one of my favorite landmarks in Spain and one of the top Gothic architectural gems in the whole of Europe. Its full name in Spanish is Catedral de   Santa María de Burgos .

The Burgos Cathedral was built from 1221 to 1260, although there once was a medieval Romanesque Church in its place (since the 19th century). Despite the record-long time of construction of Burgos Cathedral, the addition of the new structural elements and chapels went on till the XVIII century.

The Cathedral is known for its unique Gothic architectural style and the tomb El Cid or Cid Campeador ( Spanish legendary knight Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar).

Currently, the Burgos Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Spain and one of the main stops on the Way of Saint James (or Camino de Santiago in Spanish).

18. San Sebastian

San Sebastian is an authentic gem of the Basque country, one of the most romantic places in Spain , and a must-stop on every Northern Spain Road trip.

Also, San Sebastian is one of Spain´s top foodie destinations , known for its numerous Michelin restaurants and pintxos (diverse mini-bites all laid out in front of you). Every year there´s a local competition – Euskal Herria pintxo championship, with local bars and restaurants battling for the best yummy creations.

The panoramic views of San Sebastian from Monte Igeldo , Monte Urgull , and Monte Ulia are simply to die for.

San Sebastian gets a fair share of tourists in Spain – its allure is undeniable. No wonder that historically, the Spanish monarchy used to spend their summers at Palacio de Miramar in San Sebastian.

San Sebastian is one of my favorite places in Spain , s o you might often see it on my IG Stories , as I simply can´t miss a chance to visit.

19. The New Bridge of Ronda

While Ronda is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and the third most visited place in the province of Andalucia, The New Bridge of Ronda absolutely belongs on the list of  fairytale places in Spain . It is one of those epic constructions you simply need to see with your own eyes to believe it exists in reality.

Ronda´s 98m high bridge was built in 1793. A local legend claims that the bridge’s architect Jose Martin de Aldehuela committed suicide on the New Bridge of Ronda because he realized he´d never be able to make another project as stunning and ambitious as this one.

The New Bridge of Ronda is one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain and one of the must-see places to see in Andalusia .

20. Plaza de España, Seville

While Seville is one of the most vibrant and  romantic places in Spain ,  Plaza de España  is definitely the heart of the city. It was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo in 1928. 

The square exposes many tiled alcoves, representing different provinces in Spain.  Plaza de España  has been used as a filming location in Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and Star Wars II – Attack of the Clones (2002).

Plaza de España  is especially magical during the blue hour or if you´re catching a glimpse of the setting sun. You should not miss  Parque de Maria Luisa  nearby with its quiet fountains and pretty gardens.

21. The Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza

The Baroque Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady Pilar is definitely the symbol of Zaragoza city and one of the most famous cathedrals in Spain . It was constructed in 1872, while three of its four towers were finished later in 1907, 1959, and 1961. Each of them has a height of 92 m.

What has surprised me about this Spanish landmark is that inside the cathedral no photos are allowed . Although in every other Spanish cathedral, I´ve been to it is always a usual no-flash policy.

22. The Altamira Cave

While Santillana del Mar is on the list of the most beautiful small towns in Spain , it is globally known for the Cave of Altamira. This cave houses magnificent prehistoric paintings and engravings, some of which are more than 14000 years old.

The Altamira Cave was discovered in 1876 by a local hunter Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola . The ancient drawings of bison, deer, and horses of Altamira Cave look simply spectacular – it´s hard to believe their actual age. Scientists claim that around 13000 ago the cave entrance collapsed and it provided thousands of years of complete isolation for the paintings inside it. This is the only reason the Altamira Caves paintings are so well-preserved while being protected from the outside world for thousands of years. Nowadays we still know nothing about the people behind Altamira´s drawings and the message they wanted to deliver.

While since 2001 visitors can enjoy the replica of the cave, only a small number of people is allowed inside the original caves every year in order to preserve this unique Spanish landmark. There´s a 3-year waiting list for those aiming to cross The Altamira Cave off their Spain Bucket List. Another option you might consider is to enjoy the original cave on a virtual tour .

23. Hanging Houses of Cuenca

The city Cuenca, located in the region of Castile-La Mancha, is one of the Spanish big unknowns. Even though it borders with a few well-known Spanish regions, like Madrid, Toledo, or  Valencia , Cuenca is still quite in the shadow.

One of the top things to see in Cuenca is the Hanging Houses of Cuenca ( or Casas Colgadas in Spanish). It is one of the most unique landmarks in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only three of the Hanging Houses remain nowadays, carefully restored in the 20th century. You get the best view of the Hanging Houses from the San Pablo Bridge   (especially impressive at night).

Artsy visitors can check the Spanish Abstract paintings at  Museo de Arte Abstracto Español , located inside one of the Hanging Houses.

Also, you simply can´t miss the Enchanted city of Cuenca , located within a 30-minute drive from the city of Cuenca.

24. Gaztelugatxe

During my trip to the Basque Country, Gaztelugatxe for sure was a bucket list number one. It is one of those places you should definitely experience at least once in a lifetime. 241 steps (dating back to the Xth century) will take you to the Church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, sitting on the top of the hill.

This place is surrounded by myths, legends, and historical events, starting from the saint San Joan (after whom the church was named) to the pirates, wars, and times of witch-hunting during the Spanish Saint Inquisition (witches would unite in the area to cast their spells).

Keep in mind that it is actually quite a hike all the way to the top. Influencers wearing pretty dresses might look good in photos, but the truth is that you’d better be wearing comfortable shoes ( it rains quite often and the path might be slippery). Also, as the place has become very touristy lately, you should book your entrance online in advance.

Gaztelugatxe has been recently on the radar a lot, as one of the most epic  Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain .

25. Roman Theatre in Merida

Roman Theatre of Merida is one of the Top Roman Empire landmarks in Spain . It was built between the XVI and XVth centuries BC and used to hold up to 3000 citizens. Merida´s Theatre still hosts performances and you can see it lit up on a nighttime tour.

The Roman cultural heritage of Merida and Extremadura province is so huge that you´ll have a whole separate list of epic landmarks in Spain nearby. Must-see Roman historical sites of Merida: Amphitheatre of Merida, San Lazaro Aqueduct, Los Milagros Aqueduct, Roman Circus, Roman Bridge, Arch of Trajano, House of Mithraeum, Roman Art National Museum, Proserpina Reservoir, Cornalvo Reservoir, Roman Thermae in Alange, Temple de Diana. Not to mention the nearest Region of Caceres with its  Caparra ,  Coria ,  Alcantara ,  Garovillas de Alconetar , and  Temple of Trajan .

Also, the other two major Spanish destinations with unique Roman Heritage are the cities of Tarragona and Cartagena (one of the top gems of the Murcia Region).

26. Lovers of Teruel

You can’t find Teruel on the list of most romantic travel experiences around the world to explore with your loved one. But it really belongs there. The Mausoleum of the  Amantes de Teruel  is your ultimate proof. If you’re a fan of Spain you just can´t ignore one of the romantic Spanish legends  – the story of the Lovers of Teruel. Visiting the tomb and learning more about the Spanish Romeo and Juliet is one of the most popular things to do in Teruel .

The story of Amantes de Teruel or Lovers of Teruel has inspired Spanish artists and poets since the XIIIth century. Two tragic deaths united by one eternal love story, isn’t it poetic?

Fans of the places off the beaten path can´t ignore Teruel´s beautiful villages worth planning a separate Spanish road trip around them.

27. Mudejar Architecture

Spanish Mudejar Architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage and one of my favorite artsy landmarks in Spain. If you ever visited the Southern region of  Andalusia you might know what I’m talking about. The Real Alcazar of Seville, Cordoba´s Synagogue, and Capilla de San Bartolome are some of the most popular Mudejar gems.

Also read:  Medieval Fairs in Spain

Although the Spanish region of Aragon , and especially Teruel, holds some of my favorite Mudejar artworks – The Cathedral of Teruel, San Pedro Church, Escalinata Neomudejar , and the Towers of San Pedro, San Miguel, and Salvador, Zaragoza´s Palacio de la Aljaferia , Colegiata de Calatayud.

Also, don´t miss Santa Maria La Blanca and Synagogue in Toledo, San Tirso in Sahagun, and Puerta de Toledo in Cuidad Real.

28. The Basilica and the Holy Cave of Covadonga

While there are so many great things to do in the Spanish region of Asturias , some of its top Spanish landmarks are definitely The Basilica and the Holy Cave of Covadonga. Both were absolute highlights of my first Asturias road trip.

Covadonga has a huge place in Spanish history. It was where Christian forces in Iberia defeated the Moorish army, setting the beginning of the famous  Reconquista . There’s a historical legend describing that the statue of the Virgin Mary from this cave has miraculously helped Christians defeat their enemies. 

Also read: The Most Beautiful Villages in Asturias

The Covadonga Basilica dates back to the XIIth century and is one of the top Spanish spiritual and iconic buildings.

The Holy Cave of Covadonga is a historic Christian holy place nestled within a spectacular natural cave. Nowadays, the Holy Cave of Covadonga is still a place for religious pilgrimages.

Another epic Spanish landmark nearby is the Picos de Europa National Park with some of the best hiking trails in Spain .

28. El Teide, Tenerife / The Canary Islands

No list of landmarks in Spain could be complete without a few of the national otherworldly beautiful landscapes .

While you currently can  virtually travel  to the moon, The Canary Islands might give you a similar experience in real life. The impressive and unique landscapes of these exotic Spanish islands deserve a  separate post . But if I were to pick one epic national gem it would definitely be Teide National Park in  Tenerife .

Teide is Spain´s highest mountain (over 3,718 m). The most popular way to enjoy the unforgettable views of the area it to take a cable car to La Rambleta station (3 555m). Another option is a 9km hike via Montaña blanca , which usually takes 6-7 hours.

But note, in order to climb higher than La Rambleta station and reach the Teide peak itself you´d need to ask for special permission at Parque Nacional Teide web (in the peak season it might take up to 3 months).

Another similar location in The Canary Islands is  Lanzarote´ s Timanfaya National Park. Both Teide and Timanfaya are Top Spanish National Parks of volcanic origins.

29. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is another amazing UNESCO World Heritage site in Spain. This Royal historical site is surrounded by 111 23 hectares of gardens and it´s been the country residence of the Spanish kings and queens for centuries.

The bourbons, starting with Charles V and Philip II in 1564, kept decorating the Royal Palace of Aranjuez in order to spend their springs around the property (from Easter to June). The Royal Palace of Aranjuez is full of unique art pieces, like for instance its Chinese Room, decorated with 200 paintings given to Queen Isabella II by the Emperor of China.

The gardens of The Royal Palace of Aranjuez are often listed among the most beautiful gardens in Spain . Philip II put a special effort into their unique design while being the ultimate lover of beautiful gardens in Europe.

30. Caceres

The region of Caceres in the Spanish province of Extremadura is known for its unique medieval old town, epic Roman historical sites , and the gorgeous Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe.

The Old Town of Caceres is full of unique architectural features with elements of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance styles. This town was the first one in Spain to become a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986 (alongside Toledo).

31. The Spanish Wild West in Almeria

While the wide and dry expanses of the Almeria Region are rarely mentioned on any list of top landmarks in Spain, I do believe it´s a must on every Spain Travel Bucket list.

Almeria is internationally famous for its unique Wild West Town experience in Spain . You´ll be surprised to find out that many of the top Hollywood Westerns were actually filmed in Spain, including The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966) and Once Upon a Time in the West (1968).

Aside from being the Game of Thrones filming location in Spain , Almeria appears in many other big Hollywood movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Cleopatra (1963), Trinity Is Still My Name (1971), Dance of the Vampires (2001), Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) and others.

So, this is the only place in Europe where you could channel your inner cowboy while walking the streets of a Wild West Town. Additionally, there are many more cool things to do in the Region of Almeria .

32. The Palm Groove of Elche

The largest palm grove in Europe is located in the small Spanish town of Elche, Valencia Province. With 200,000 palms,  El Palmeral  has been a part of Elche´s unique urban landscape for over 1000 years. 

The origins of the Palm Grove of Elche date back to the X century when the Arabs relocated the city to its current site. The Moorish cultivation methods employed in Elche centuries ago have survived to the present day.  El Palmeral  was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

You might expect to come across an oasis while heading to the Middle East, but seeing with your own eyes 200,000 palms in Elche, Valencia is not something easy to forget. Also, Parque Municipal in Elche is one of the most beautiful gardens in Spain .

33. Alcala de Henares

Located only 30km from the Spanish capital of Madrid, Alcala de Henares is globally known as Cervantes’s birthplace ( one of the most famous Spaniards ever and the author of “Don Quixote”).

Moreover, it was the first city in the world designed as a university town. Back in 1499, Cardenal Cisneros founded the Alcala´s University or Universidad Complutense de Alcala in Spanish.

Aside from its gorgeous streets, like Calle Mayor , and central square Plaza de Cervantes , you can visit Cervantes’s birthplace – Museo Casa Natal de Cervantes . Also, since 1977 Spain´s biggest literature award Premio Miguel de Cervantes de literatura is celebrated in Alcala de Henares.

You can easily download a free local guide with maps at turismoalcala.es .

34. Mallorca

While the Balearic islands are globally known for the island of Ibiza and the Caribbean-like beaches of Formentera , it´s Mallorca´s Sierra Tramuntana which is considered one of Spain´s top cultural landscapes. Subsequently, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, the very same one you simply can´t miss once in Spain.

The views from Cap de Formentor will reveal in front of you some of the most unforgettable cliffs in Spain , while Sierra Tramuntana is known for its magical villages like Soller, Escorca, Pollenca, Valldemossa, Deia , and Fornalutx .

Also, Mallorca ranks globally for its capital Palma de Mallorca , Palma Aquarium (with the largest collection of live coral in Europe), Cuevas del Drach , and some of Spain´s best beaches . Mallorca is definitely one of the best Spanish islands that everyone should consider visiting.

You can read more about Mallorca in this post –  Our Weekend in Mallorca with kids .

For more Spain travel ideas check my Pinterest Boards –  The Ultimate Spain Travel Collection  and  Travel to Spain .

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About The Author

Traveling in Spain non-stop is my biggest obsession. Looking for Spanish hidden gems and local travel tips? - You are in the right place! Let me be your insider guide to Spain!

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10 Comments

Great post – have not travelled through Spain extensively like you have but left my heart there years ago so hope to come back one day!

Spain looks absolutely incredible! I can’t wait to visit these landmarks someday!

So much beauty! Love this ultimate list of famous landmarks in Spain!

I really enjoyed reading your list of the top famous landmarks in Spain. I’d like to see the Canary Islands and Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Someday, we would love to walk the Camino de Santiago.

I need to visit more of Spain! It looks full of so many beautiful landscapes and architecture: I’ve been to Barcelona and Majorca but there looks so much more to see!

Such a lovely ide about the famous landmarks in spain thanks sharing this article

Thank you! I’m saving this for my upcoming trip to Europe

I have been to few of these places and Sevilla is on the top of my list! Loved Cadiz as well… saving it for my future travels to see more of Spain!

Having visited only 3/34 in this list despite visiting Spain probably 5 or so times, is simply unacceptable for a country I love so much! I must return immediately!! :’) Thanks for reminding me just how incredible Spain is!

There are so many incredible landmarks in Spain! I’ve only really explored Barcelona so I still have a lot to check off this list! I’d especially love to see the Don Quijote Windmills! They look so charming! Thanks for the great guide!

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55 Famous Landmarks in Spain to Visit [2024]

Spain’s histories of conquest, Christianity, and invasion are only a part of what makes Spain a land of famous sites – 55 famous landmarks in Spain to be precise! Spain’s cultural landmarks were created by the genius of architects such as Gaudi but this country is also home to diverse natural wonders and ancient structures. Together you get a list just like this one! See how many you can squeeze into your next trip to Spain.

• Spain Landmarks Map

Here’s a map of the 55 most famous landmarks in Spain to help you plan your next trip.

1. Tower of Hercules

2. cathedral of santiago de compostela, 3. roman walls of lugo, 4. niemeyer center, 5. altamira cave, 6. bilbao guggenheim museum, 7. burgos cathedral, 8. aljafería palace, 9. dali museum, figueres, 10. casa calvet, 11. montserrat monastery, 12. park güell, 13. casa vicens, 14. sagrada familia.

• 15. Casa Milà

16. Casa Batlló

17. palau de la musica, 18. las ramblas, 19. museo picasso de barcelona.

• 20. Palau Güell (Güell Palace)

21. (Gaudí’s Crypt) Church of Colònias Güell

22. roman amphitheater of tarragona, 23. alcázar fortress in segovia, 24. aqueduct of segovia, 25. walls of ávila, 26. manzanares castle el real, 27. plaza de toros de las ventas, 28. royal palace of madrid, 29. plaza mayor, 30. puerta del sol, 31. thyssen-bornemisza museum, 32. museo nacional del prado (prado museum), 33. reina sofia museum, 34. toledo cathedral, 35. hanging houses of cuenca, 36. windmills of consuegra, 37. ciudad de las artes y las ciencias, 38. majorca cathedral, 39. caves of drach, 40. roman theater, mérida, 41. the lonja (llotja de valencia), 42. great mosque-cathedral of córdoba, 43. italica, 44. setas de savilla, 45. seville cathedral, 46. royal alcázar of seville, 47. plaza de españa, 48. puente nuevo, 49. caminito del rey, 50. antequera dolmens, 51. el torcal de antequera, 52. alcázaba de málaga, 53. alhambra, 54. alcázaba de almeria.

• 55. Timanfaya National Park UNESCO biosphere reserve

Keep Planning Your Trip to Spain

This Monument has stood for over 2300 years and at first, was used to guide ships heading to the British Isles. The original structure is almost completely intact today and stands 180 meters high.

The Tower of Hercules, built in the 2nd century BC, is the world’s oldest lighthouse. You’ll find it on the north coast of the peninsula of A Coruña.

The Tower of Hercules used the plans of the Lighthouse and Alexandria. it is the only ancient Roman lighthouse to still be in use in the 21st century. The Roman parts of the lighthouse can only be seen from the inside.

Visitors can see the original map and climb the 234 steps to reach the balcony. If there are strong winds, the lighthouse is closed.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 8 pm; Admissi on: € 3,00

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most iconic Spanish landmarks. It’s situated in the historical center of Santiago de Compostela, a city in Galicia, Northern Spain.

For centuries the cathedral has been playing an important role in the Christian culture. It’s known as the burial place of St.James the Great, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus.

The cathedral is one of the only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus.

Thousands of people every year complete the Camino pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Santiago following one of the Camino de Santiago routes. 

The construction of the current cathedral started in 1075 and finished in 1211. It got significant expansion and redecoration between the 16th and 18th centuries.

In 1985 for its cultural value and historical integrity, the cathedral and the old town of Santiago de Compostela were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Visiting the cathedral is one of the must-do things in Santiago de Compostela . The cathedral is open to visitors daily from 8 am to 9 pm.

During masses that take place at 9.30 am, noon, and 7.30 pm, it’s not allowed to walk around and take photos. Anybody can attend the service. Entrance to the cathedral is free.

Opening Hours: Daily, 8 am to 9 pm; Admission: Cathedral museum is € 6,00

Alya from Stingy Nomads

The Roman walls surround the Roman and medieval city of Lugo in Galicia, Spain. They were built between the 1st century BC and the 4th century AD from stone and earth.

These walls offered protection for one of the most important cities in Spain, during both Roman and Moorish times.

The height and length of the Roman wall of Lugo range from 5 to 10 meters and span a perimeter of two kilometers.

It has been estimated that there used to be 100 watchtowers along the city walls. 49 remain whole today and another 39 are partially intact.

The Roman walls also offer a wonderful view of the whole city and the nearby countryside. A walkway has been constructed to allow you to walk the entire length of the walls. The wall is now within the city but is a complete circuit.

Apart from the walls, there were several gates that were used to control who entered or exited the city. Five were built during Roman times, including “Puerta del Bispo” (Bishop’s Gate), “Puerta de Los Leones” (Lions’ Gate), and “Puerta de la Puebla” (People’s Gate).

The Roman Walls of Lugo were declared a World Heritage site in 2000.

Opening Hours: Always open; Admission: Free

The Niemeyer Center in Asturia, Spain, is one of the country’s most unique buildings. Located in Benavente, it is surrounded by a gorgeous garden with ponds and fountains.

It was designed by architect Gerhard Niemeyer who gave it its present shape in 1960 after he won an architecture competition for a new cultural center at that location; until then, the area was used as a parking lot.

The building’s architecture consists of 25 million bricks that were handmade by local masons according to traditional techniques during the construction period of more than thirty years (1955-86).

The edifice was designed to host live theatre, dance recitals, and other musical performances such as symphonies or church choirs.

There are three distinct architectural styles in it: Islamic, Mudejar (a mixture of Arab and Spanish elements), and neo-renaissance, while most of its 80 rooms are used for exhibitions on diverse themes including art deco or folkloric costumes during different periods in history.

It is also used for conferences and seminars on diverse topics and the art school offers different courses for both adults and children.

Opening Hours: 9 am to midnight; Admission: Free to walk around the square but some exhibitions have ticket prices

The prehistoric cave paintings at Altamira are a tourist attraction near Santanilla in Cantabria, Spain. The Altamira Museum is located 2 kilometers from Santanilla and a ticket must be purchased for the cave that includes entry to the museum.

In 1985 the Cave of Altamira became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The paintings of animals such as bison have become internationally renowned because of their outstanding archaeological value.

They contain some of the earliest examples of cave paintings found anywhere in Europe dating back 14,800 years. This discovery caused great excitement among archaeologists who believed these images could help shed light on how early humans lived.

Opening Hours: May to October: Tuesday to Saturday 9:30 am to 8:00 pm (closing at 3 pm November to April), Sundays and holidays 9:30 am to 3:00 pm;

Admission: At the museum box office on the day of the visit. Tickets available for each day begin to be delivered at 9:30 a.m. at the box office on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are free on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

The Guggenheim Museum is a world-famous art gallery located on the waterfront at the end of Avenida de la Constitución. The building was designed by Frank Gehry and opened to the public in 1997.

It has been described as one of the most important buildings ever built for an exhibition space and is a sculptural masterpiece that is a highlight of a trip to Spain. Its exterior walls shimmer with glass, limestone, and titanium.

The three floors of the Guggenheim Museum center around an enormous atrium with walkways, elevators, and stairs coming off it. 20 Galleries are located along these spokes.

The Guggenheim is filled with extraordinary art and sculpture by modern masters such as Mark Rothko and Lousie Bourgois. If you see only one landmark in Spain besides the Sangria Familia, make it this one.

Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11 am to 7 pm, open occasional Mondays; Admission: € 16,00.

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos is a monumental piece of Gothic architecture (88 meters high!) that was begun in 1221 AD. It’s also the first Gothic Cathedral to be built in Spain.

Once you’ve seen a few dozen Gothic Cathedrals in Europe, you might get the feeling they’re all pretty much the same. But there is something about the perfect dimensions and architecture of this Cathedral in Burgos that combines with the art, sculpture, and light to make it a truly extraordinary Spanish landmark.

This current Cathedral stands on the site of a previous Romanesque Church. But before it was built there was a Palace of the Kings of Castile.

The dome of this Cathedral is spectacular with its filigree stonework. The quality and beauty of the paintings of the Virgin Mary, the Spiral Staircase, High Chapels, Cloisters, Transcoro, and the Cathedral Museum make this a must-see stop in Burgos.

Opening Hours: Approximately 10 am to 7 pm but changes according to the month;

Admission: 7.00 €

Aljafería Palace is an eleventh-century Arabian palace in Zaragoza, Aragon. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are three buildings in Spain that are protected because they are such wonderful examples of Hispanic-Moorish architecture: the Alhambra, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, and Aljafería Palace.

The fortified structure with a moat and towers is laid out on a quadrangular plan with a large central courtyard. The Islamic arches (arabesques), the latticework, and the ornate and restored ceilings show the wealth of the Banu Hud dynasty, its first occupants.

The building was later a residence for the Christian Kings of Aragon and then a Palace for Catholic monarchs, a military fortress, and now a seat of the regional parliament.

The Palace was built outside the Roman Walls of Zaragoza, but ow the city has expanded beyond the Walls, and it’s a short 20-minute walk from the city center to this astonishing feat of Moorish architecture.

Opening Hours: April 1 to October 31, Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 2 pm, 16:30 pm to 20:00 pm; Between 10:30 to 11:30 and 17:30 to 18:30, all visits are guided ; Admission: 14,00 €.

Among artists of the 20th century, Salvador Domingo Felipe Jacinto Dalí i Domènech, 1st Marquess of Dalí de Púbol was surely one of the most talented. He was recognized for his works as a painter, writer, sculptor, and filmmaker. He left his biggest legacy as a surrealist painter.

The largest collection of his works can be found in Dali’s museum in Figueres. He was born in Figueres and had his first exhibition in a theater there that was changed into his museum in 1974 after it burned down. And in the end, he has found his final resting place at this spot.

Figueres is located between Barcelona and Perpignan and can be reached from either city by car in less than 2 hours. The museum is located in the city center.

When you approach the museum you will recognize it by the red facade and big eggs on the top. Inside is like being trapped inside a surrealist painting in a dream-like world full of symbols (melting watch, eggs, long legs, ants, …). It’s hard to know what will most catch your eye like The Spectre of Sex Appeal (1932), or Soft Self-Portrait with Grilled Bacon (1941).

The installations include the Courtyard with Figurines and Cadillac, the Abe Lincoln picture, and the Mae West room where the furniture forms a face if observed at a special angle. 

Ope ning Hours: Daily 10:30 am. – 3:00 pm; Admission: 14,00 €.

by Džangir at Dr Jam Travels

Casa Calvet is one of the most important Barcelona landmarks. It is a building designed by Antoni Gaudí. The casa is in Barri Gòtic, the most important part of Barcelona’s old town. It was built for Enric Calvet and his family between 1901 and 1906 as a private residence.

Considered the most conservative of Gaudí’s buildings, it is perhaps his most beautiful.

The Casa was constructed using only traditional building materials which included volcanic stone from Montjuic taken from an old quarry nearby as well as brick and plaster made from baked sand mixed with stone dust along with other materials such as lime mortar, timber beams, roof tiles and lead for windows.

However, it now serves as a public building that is used to house a number of conferences and exhibitions. The casa has been declared a “National Historic Monument” by the Spanish Government which means it cannot be changed or built upon without permission from government officials unless designated otherwise by the landowner.

Casa Calvet has also been declared an official art gallery and museum because it contains many pictures and sculptures, including 2 paintings featuring Casa Calvet’s architect, Antoni Gaudí.

Metro: L4, Urquinaona stop, Address: Casp, 48 – 08010 Barcelona.

Opening Ho urs; Currently not open to the public but you can wander around the exterior.

One of the most popular day trips from Barcelona is to the Abbey of Montserrat. This Benedictine monastery is located near the top of the jagged Montserrat mountain range.

The abbey draws tourists and Catholic pilgrims to visit the famous Black Madonna.

Visit the stunning cathedral, see the Black Madonna, and catch the Montserrat Boys Choir that sings twice daily for a treat. Check out the Santa Cova Chapel where the Black Madonna was found, or hike to the top of the highest peak, Sant Jeroni, for incredible views. Though, you can do shorter hikes to enjoy the views from anywhere in this area.

Montserrat is an easy day trip from Barcelona. Take the train then catch the cable car or the funicular to reach the monastery. Or, you could hike it, of course! You won’t pay to visit though donations are always appreciated. There is a museum with artifacts from the area that does charge a small entrance fee. 

Montserrat is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. It does get quite crowded so it’s a good idea to go early, especially if you want to see the Black Madonna. Montserrat is an incredible place to visit for its cultural and religious importance.

It’s worth visiting the abbey and this stunningly beautiful area.

Opening Hours: Daily 7.30 am to 8 pm. Admission: Free

by Sam at My Flying Leap

Park Güell is designed by Antoni Gaudí, a radical modernist who used Park Güell as his testing ground for new ideas in design.

He was commissioned to create this park for a Spanish entrepreneur named Count Eusebi de Güell to use as an observation point and resting place for workers during breaks.

Park Güell is built with only natural resources from Barcelona. It is unique in its use of mosaic tiles to decorate stone pillars that seem to grow out of the land around them.

The tile mosaics in Park Güell have become a signature of the Park, and each tile is an individual part of a greater picture. Gaudí used over 30 different types of stone from Park Guell to make this masterpiece.

Park Güell also features statues, benches, and see-through gazebos that were sculpted into the landscape in a way that makes Park Güell seem like the land itself is creating these things for visitors to enjoy.

Other signature elements of Park Güell are the undulating brick paths, towers, and art-nouveau dragon gate that lead visitors to Park Güell’s entrance.

Park Güell was opened on May 15th, 1902, and was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1984 for its unique artistic and architectural value.

Park Güell is easy to reach from the center of Barcelona and is open late at night during special events.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm; Admission: 12,00€ , under 14, free.

This house was built by Antoni Gaudí between 1883-1885 as his first commission. It was one of the buildings that began the Modernism movement in Europe.

According to the Catalan culture website: “Casa Vicens is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most personal works. It is a private house with no apparent link to the outside, but with friendly and welcoming areas inside.”

This casa was built for Mr. Manuel Vicens i Montaner [1829-1914] (hence its name) who was a Catalan anarchist dedicated to journalism who served as councilman and mayor in Barcelona during the second half of the 19th century.

The house has undergone extensions and renovations. A major extension in 1925 was designed by Joan Baptista Serra de Martínez. A cultural center, services, and garden have been added, but none of Gaudí’s original rooms have been altered.

Furniture that was designed by Gaudí is in various rooms. My favorite room is the smoking room which is a riot of colors and patterns on the ground floor.

Bedrooms above have papier-mache-pressed ceiling tiles. The whole building shows creativity, experimentation, and novel use of materials for decoration.

Opening Hours: Summer hours (until September 30) – Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm. Last admission 6:40 pm; Admission: Regular 16€, Concession 14€

The monumental building is Gaudí’s greatest work . The most visited building in the world and a must-see for any visitor to Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia in Catalan means “The Holy Family” or “Sacred Family”. It is a large Roman Catholic basilica in Barcelona, designed by world-renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí.

It is also one of Europe’s greatest architectural achievements and is considered by many to be one of the greatest buildings constructed since 1500.

Plans for the church began in 1914, with construction starting on the 25th of May, 1926. The designs were completed when Gaudí fell ill in 1925.

He died the following year. In 1930, Gaudí’s assistant Domènec Sugrañes i Gras became his successor as the main architect of the project.  

In 1984, construction began on a series of towers that are still unfinished. There is currently an agreement in place to build 6 more spires according to Gaudí’s original plans.

The most incredible features of the Sagrada Familia include the massive columns and the four towers, which represent the four evangelists.

The interior of this church will be covered in 20th-century-style frescoes. They are currently being held by a large cloth so they cannot be tarnished or damaged until completion.

The main floor is designed to hold up to 10,000 people for services. The whole church spans about 157 meters in length.

The church is scheduled to be finally completed by 2026, the 100th anniversary of its foundation stone being laid, and will then host the remains of Gaudí and his family.

Opening Hours: Friday to Wednesday 9 am to 6 pm, closed Thursdays and religious holidays; Admission: 12,00€ (10,00€ reduced).

15. Casa Mil à

This apartment block designed by Antoni Gaudì occupies an entire city block on Passeig de Gràcia street which was the most prestigious street in Barcelona.

The building is a mix of Art Nouveau and Modernisme styles. It was completed in 1904 and has been a World Heritage Site since 1984 and opened to the public in 1996.

It was built for the Milá family who wanted to live on the main floor and rent out the apartments above. It is built on a corner block and there are two blocks of apartments, each with an entrance on a different street. There is a large courtyard that connects the two buildings.

This building is one of the most famous works of Antoni Gaudí. Its distinctive shape has earned it many nicknames over time: “The Whale”, “the ship”, or simply “la Pedrera”.

Casa Milá is another wonderful example of Gaudìs use of asymmetrical shapes. The incredible facade is a ‘curtain wall’ and not a structural part of the building.

The main characteristic of this building is its roof, made up of four different types of tile and surrealist chimneys and sculptures that make this my favorite rooftop in the world.

There are also several other interesting features like balconies, windows, or doors with their incredible ironwork.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, and holidays: 9:00 am – 6:30 pm; Night tour: 08:40 pm – 10:00 pm; Admission: €27,00 and up for adults

Casa Batlló is located on the Paseo de Gracia. The original house was extensively remodeled by the man known as “God’s Architect”, Antonio Gaudí, the famous Spanish architect who designed many buildings in Barcelona including La Sagrada Familia church.

Like six other of Gaudís modernist creations in Barcelona, Casa Batlló is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The fantastical marine façade makes it one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.

The roof is shaped like waves covered in shining scales, and the front-facing balconies are shaped as masks. It is incredible to think that he built this between 1904 and 1906.

The Bernat family has been restored to its original glory with a lot of attention paid to detail.

Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 am to 6:30 pm. Magic Nights take place between 6 pm and 8 pm, Tuesday and Saturday. Admission: €35 and up.

One of the most significant architectural wonders in Barcelona began the beautiful Catalan Modernista style that is predominant in the city.

This Unesco site is stunning and one of the iconic buildings by architect Lluis Domenic i Montaner and built between 1905 to 1908. One of the main drivers of the modern architectural movement in architecture at Barcelona the concert hall was inaugurated in February 1908.

You’ll find gorgeous details throughout the interior and exterior of the building with handmade details by local artisans of wood details, glass windows, chandeliers, and other gorgeous detail work throughout the concert hall.

A very large stained glass chandelier adorns the interior hall which is grand, colorful, and imposing from all levels of the interior hall. 

You can sign up for tours of the concert hall to visit all the various rooms and interiors or better yet book any of the fun music venues that are offered daily from classical and folk music to a variety of guest performers to the concert hall.

An added plus is seeing how stunning the interior is lit up magically at night time and really a jewel in every detail you can imagine. It feels very special to attend any of the performances at the Palau de la Musica and enjoy a wonderful concert or special performance. 

Prices for each performance vary but are reasonable for Barcelona standards unless it is an international and famous performer which commands higher prices.

For a smaller fee, you can easily upgrade to a local performance and enjoy a complete experience at this place which is worth the small splurge and experience.

Opening Hours: Daily 10.00 am to 3.30 pm. Admission: Audio Tour and Visit for 50 mins, € 18,00.

If you travel to Barcelona, you shouldn’t miss the beautiful old town. One of the most famous sights of the city center is the promenade Las Ramblas (also called Les Rambles (Catalan) or La Rambla).

It connects the city center, Plaça Catalunya, with the city’s old port (Port Vell).

The popular street is about 1.2 km (0.74 mi) long, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll. Along the street, you will find various stores, street performers, and also access to the Barrio Gotico, which is considered one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona .

Probably the most beautiful access is through Plaça Reial. There are lots of great restaurants, cafes, and bars waiting for you in this square. With its wonderful fountain and huge palm trees, it is also one of the most beautiful squares in Barcelona.

In addition, the entrance to the most popular market in the city is located on Las Ramblas, the Mercat de la Boqueria. Here you will find some of the best Spanish snacks and treats.

There are also plenty of restaurants in Las Ramblas. However, it is not recommended to eat here as the restaurants are highly overpriced.

Eventually, at the end of Las Ramblas, you will find the famous Columbus Statue. If you want, you go up and enjoy the view over the city’s port while sipping a glass of Catalan cava.

Opening Hours: Always Open; Admission: Free

by Vicki at Vicki Viaja

4,251 works of Picasso ate housed in this museum which opened in 1963. The Museum says that its collection is “practically exhaustive” up until Picasso’s Blue Period.

The interior decoration includes some of Picasso’s own sketches and drawings that he made during his stay in Barcelona between 1921 and 1923.

In fact, the artist spent almost two months living in the house before moving into the Hotel Continental where he stayed until 1925.

After leaving the hotel, Picasso moved into Casa Amézqueta, another property owned by the same owner. Here he created what would become known as “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” painting.

Although the exhibition space is quite limited, the museum does offer tours of the entire complex.

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 8 pm; Admission: € 12,00. Free entrance Thursdays from 5 pm and a few other times per year.

20. Palau Güell ( Güell Palace)

Palau Güell is a mansion inspired by medieval Catalonia. It was constructed between 1885 and 1887 in the Gràcia district of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.

lt is considered one of the most important works by Catalan Art Nouveau architect, Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926).

The Palau Güell fronts onto Carrer Nou de la Rambla, its façade taking advantage of a sloping site to rise over three levels topped by low towers topped with cones made from broken ceramics (called trencadís in Catalan) to decorate its façade.

Designed as a residence and social club for wealthy textile manufacturer Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi (1823-1906), Palau Güell was named after its first owner. It consists of three floors plus a basement and has a neo-gothic interior.

On the ground floor, there is a large hall surrounded by rooms decorated with murals painted by Ramon Pichot. Also here you’ll find the Salons Espais and the Saló del Tinell.

From the second floor, visitors have access to the attic via a spiral staircase. Here you can admire the wooden ceiling made by Pere Romeu. Finally, on the top floor, we find the bedroom and bathroom.

Palau Güell was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 because of its relationship with Modernisme, industrial development, and architecture in Catalonia during the late 19th century.

Palau Güell is also part of the “Catalan Modernista Route.” It’s an unforgettable Art Nouveau building, and even if you only see the outside of the building, it is certainly worth trying to see it if you are in Barcelona.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, Summer (from 1 April to 31 October): from 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm, Winter opening hours (from 1 November to 31 March): from 10 am to 1.30 pm and from 2.30 pm to 6 pm Closed: non-holiday Mondays, 25 and 26 December, 1 and 6 January and third week of January; Admission: General € 12

This lovely industrial Church was designed by Antoni  Gaudí and was intended to be for the people in a manufacturing suburb just out of Barcelona.

It was commissioned by Count Eusebi de Güell in 1898 who encouraged Gaudí to be wildly creative. Unfortunately, a downturn in the textile industry but the Count ran out of money, and the Church was never finished.

Gaudí used ropes with hemp bags weighted down to figure out how much he could bend pillars into great arcs and still hold up his fantastical structures. The Church of Colònias Güell was the practice space for the techniques he used to create the Sagrada Familia.

The Church is most famous for the “Gaudí Crypt.” Gaudí created a Crypt which is not underground but is actually the lower Nave of the Church. The Crypt is designed to mimic the natural environment of the forest around the Church.

The brilliant stained glass windows and leaning pillars show the unique genius of Gaudi and the mindblowing beauty of all of his structures.

The Crypt became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 3 pm; Admission: 8,50 € – 12,99€.

The Roman remains of the Amphitheater of Tarragona are a major landmark in Spain and are situated in the Mediterranean city of Tarragona, which was once a Roman colony.

The amphitheater was first constructed by Emperor Augustus. It was built as a gift for citizens who entertained his troops after he conquered Spain in 19 BC.

After several restorations due to damage caused by the Roman emperor Vespasian, Roman emperors Probus and Diocletian used this Roman amphitheater for gladiator fights in the third century.

At that time the Roman amphitheater was dedicated to Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus which is why it is still known by its modern name.

The Roman emperor Honorius later banned Roman games which caused the amphitheater to lose popularity until it was again renovated in 1792.

The Roman amphitheater of Tarragona has a capacity of 20,000 and is one of Spain’s largest from Roman times. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site not to miss when traveling in Spain.

Opening H ours: Weekdays 9 am – 8:30 pm, Weekends 9.30 am – 2:30 pm; Admission: Free

The Alcázar Fortress is a 15th-century palace located on Alcázar Hill in Segovia, Spain.

It is one of the four Alcázar palaces (the Alcázar of Toledo, the Alcázar of Madrid, and the Alcázar of Saragossa) that were built during Muslim rule in medieval Spain that served as royal residences for Christian kings from the 9th until the 19th century.

The Alcázar stream next to the Alcázar palace reaffirms the importance that water played in its construction in an arid landscape often ravaged by drought.

The Alcázar Fortress is an example of Mudejar architecture, with its mix of Christian Visigothic and Moorish styles. It is one of Spain’s best realizations of this architectural trend, combining Islamic and Christian styles throughout its intricate decoration.

It displays features that are characteristic of both cultures such as horseshoe archways, oriels, or Arabic decorative elements on top-floor windows on balconies reflected by Romanesque pillars.

The Alcázar that we see today was built during several stages and is a mosaic of different styles such as Almohad, Romanesque, and Gothic with its Alcazaba (fortress) at its heart.

It is one of Spain’s best examples of medieval military architecture with impressive towers and grandstands positioned around the exterior walls.

It also has traditional Islamic baths inside called Hamman and is influenced by Islamic art in both decor and function featuring a large space divided into two rooms surrounding a bathing pool covered by a vaulted dome lightened by airshafts.

Opening hours: Daily from 10 am to 14.20 am (free Fri afternoons between October and March). Admission: € 3,00

This expansive structure dates back to Roman times but was rebuilt during the reign of Alfonso X el Sabio. Its construction began sometime around 1000 AD.

The Romans used the aqueduct to get water from the River Frio. it runs for 15 kilometers (just over 9 miles) before it reaches the city. At first, it consisted only of five arches supported by pillars. Later, other arches were added until reaching their current form. The aqueduct is made up of a series of stone arches that are connected with each other through brick walls.

It has been declared as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites since 1996. Segovian locals are proud of their Ramon aqueduct – it’s even on the city’s coat of arms.

By the time it reaches the city, there are more than 100 arched bridges and 128 pillars. This makes it possible for water to flow freely throughout the entire length of the aqueduct.

It also includes an underground tunnel that allows water to be transported without having to use any kind of wheel or pump system. Water flows into the tunnels using gravity alone and this is how the water found its water through the city.

There is an Aqueduct Visitors Center in the new Mint and guided tours. At 28 meters high and 5.1 meters wide it’s a stunning sight and a fantastic day trip from Madrid.

The walls surrounding Ávila, a city in central Spain in Castile and León, are nothing short of spectacular. The wall was built between the 11th and 14th centuries to defend the city against Moorish armies.

There are no other walled cities in Spain with the same completeness of fortifications. The perimeter of the city wall is over 2,500 meters. The wall is 3 meters thick, and 12 meters high. There are 9 gates and 88 semi-circular towers along the Wall.

This has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and when you visit you can walk along about half of the perimeter. You’ll be able to see holes deliberately left by the builders of the Walls for swifts to nest in.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 11 pm; Admission: General: € 5, Reduced: € 3.5

This castle makes a great half-day trip from Madrid because it’s the best-preserved castle in the whole Madrid region and only 45 minutes by car from Madrid.

Manzanares Castle el Real is also known as the Castle of los Mendoza. The present castle was built in 1475 on top of a Mujeda Romanesque Chapel (you can see its remains inside the castle). It’s an excellent example of 15th-century Spanish military architecture.

Like many of Spain’s defensive fortresses, Manzares Castle el Real became a palace owned by the Mendoza family. It is now owned by the Duchy of Infatado.

There have been many restorations over the centuries to its six floors and towers and today you can take tours with guides in period costume, see plays, and wander through the hallways and rooms of this well-preserved castle-fortress.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10 am to 5.30 pm and 10 am to 6 pm weekends, closed Mondays; Admission: General: € 4

Plaza de Toros de las Ventas was built between 1771 and 1774 by José del Olmo and is a bullring in Madrid, Spain. It is where Madrid’s bullfighting tradition began and held bullfights until 1931. It was also used for rodeos.

Bullfighting is an important part of Spanish culture and history. Plaza de Toros de las Ventas closed in 1931, but in 1995 bullfights returned to the plaza.

The façade is one of the best examples of neoclassical (18th-century) architecture in Madrid. The decoration represents Time overthrowing Tyranny (a rather ironic statement considering its fate under Franco’s dictatorship).

Above the entrance stands an equestrian statue of Carlos III, flanked by four allegorical statues representing Glory, Fame, Abundance, and Joy.

You can visit the former bullring and learn about the history of bullfighting in Spain, which began with the coronation ceremony of Ferdinand and Isabella.

The stadium includes a ring where young matadors train themselves before graduating to other locations. It is known as Las Ventas because there was an old slaughterhouse at this location until 1778. Today it’s used only during the summer months.

There is a museum inside the premises that exhibits items relating to bullfighting.

Opening Hours: Weekdays from 9:00 am, 8:30 am Sundays; Ad mission: Free

The Royal Palace in Madrid is an absolute must-see and one of the most famous landmarks in all of Spain. It’s the official residence of the royal family although they don’t live here year-round and mostly just use it for ceremonies and official celebrations.

At most 1.5 million square feet this palace is huge and considered the largest still-in-use royal palace in all of Europe. It has 3400 separate rooms which are unimaginably large. Located in the heart of the city it’s easy to reach both on foot or via public transport.

Tickets cost 12€ per person and sell out frequently so booking in advance is highly recommended. You can buy tickets online or in person but online is much more convenient.

There are also regular concerts held at the palace for which prices tend to vary.

For an extra charge, you can also hire a guide to take you around the palace which will be helpful in order to understand all the different parts and their historical significance.

Construction for this impressive building began in the early 18th century. Many parts of the palace are still original so packing your camera is highly recommended as there are plenty of things to see and do.

Its stunning white exterior is reason enough to visit this incredible palace.

The opening hours of the palace vary from Winter to Summer. From October to March, you can visit between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm and until 4:00 pm on Sundays. From April to September, the palace stays open until 7:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Sundays.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm (until 7 pm in Summer) and until 4 pm on Sundays; Admission: € 12,00

By Victoria at Guide Your Travel

Plaza Mayor in the heart of Madrid is one of the capital’s most famous landmarks. This beautiful public square, completely surrounded by residential buildings, feels quite intimate and is without a doubt amongst the most beautiful squares in Europe. 

Construction started in 1580 during the reign of King Philip III, and the plaza has been the center point of Madrid culture for centuries. The equestrian figure in the plaza is King Philip III himself. 

In the past, the plaza was the spot where public executions took place, but thankfully times have changed since then. Today, the Plaza Mayor is a favorite hang-out place for Madrilenos and tourists alike.

There are always street performers entertaining locals and tourists in the square, or you can choose to have a drink or bite to eat at one of the cafes in the plaza while basking in all that beautiful architecture and European culture.

Being a public square, the Plaza Mayor is open all day, every day, and is free to enter. While the plaza is one of the most important landmarks in Madrid, it is not UNESCO recognized. 

The Plaza Mayor is considered to be the heart of the city, and from here you can explore almost all the other major sights the city has to offer on foot by following a self-guided walking tour of Madrid. 

by De Wet and Jin at Museum of Wander

Madrid’s famous square is home to some of the oldest buildings in the country. In fact, the Puerta del Sol dates back to 1561 when King Philip II ordered the construction of the original gate.

Since then, the square has undergone numerous changes and today it boasts over 100 monuments and statues scattered around the perimeter.

One of the most iconic structures in the square is the Monument to Christ the Redeemer. This monument stands at the highest point of the area and offers stunning views across the whole city. The statue weighs approximately 1 tonne and took three years to complete.

The other important sculpture is the Bear and the Madrone Tree, the symbol of Madrid.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum houses an extensive private collection of European fine arts including works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Henri Matisse, and Paul Klee, to name a fraction of its impressive artists whose work is on display.

It has been described as “the best small museum in the world” due to its unique location within the city center.

Along with the Prado and Rein Sofia museums, the Thyssen-Bornemisza is considered one of the top ten attractions in Europe and is part of Madrid’s Golden Triangle.

Opening Hours: Daily, 11: 00 am until midnight; Admission: Prices vary depending on the time of visit.

Madrid, the capital of Spain, has an abundance of history to show to the world, and it manifests in government buildings, cathedrals, monuments, and palaces.

Art museums like Museo del Prado are frequently voted as the most popular attraction in Madrid. Like Le Louvre or the National Gallery in London, Prado is one of the most prestigious classical art museums in Europe.  

Prado is in the heart of Madrid alongside El Retiro, a historic city park that once belonged to the Spanish Monarchy. Together with Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Reina Sofía Museum, Pardo is part of the  Golden Triangle of Art in Madrid.

The museums showcase European artworks in many different genres and eras, inspiring tens of thousands of art lovers and students who visit these premises every day. 

Pardo houses an exciting number of world-class masterpieces, with a focus on the classical art of great Spanish artists including Velázquez, Goya, and Rubens, along with other famous international artists in Germany, Italy, Britain, and France. Check out Las Meninas, the most celebrated artwork created by Diego Velazquez in 1656. 

Tourists may enjoy free access to Prado with a Madrid Card, it will save time as there is always a long queue at the ticketing office. Another great time to view the artwork is in the early afternoon because it usually gets crowded in the morning.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays and holidays 10 am to 7 pm; Admission: Regular €15 or free with a Madrid Card

by Kenny at Knycx Journeying 

Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid is one of the world’s leading museums dedicated exclusively to modern art. It is one of the most visited sites in Madrid and attracts millions of people each year.

This magnificent building was designed by Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2004. Its design incorporates elements of both classical architecture and contemporary style.

Inside Reina Sofía you’ll find three floors filled with stunning pieces of art ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to cutting-edge installations.

Visitors should expect long queues at peak times, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid queuing then try coming earlier in the week or later in the evening.

If you’re looking for something different why not take a guided tour? Tours run throughout the day and last approximately 1 hour. A guide will explain all aspects of the collection while taking you behind the scenes of the gallery.

Tours cost €10 and include access to special areas normally closed off to the general public.

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10 am to 8 pm, Sunday closes at 2:30 pm; Admission: € 10,00, free Monday and Wednesday to Saturday, 6 pm to 8 pm, and Sunday 1:30 pm to 2:15 pm.

Toledo was the old capital of Spain and the notable city of three cultures – a place where Jews, Christians, and Muslims used to live in peace many centuries ago.

Its rich legacy of 2000 years is safeguarded wonderfully and gives it the honor of being a UNESCO world heritage site.

Situated in Toledo, the Toledo Cathedral is a major monument in Spain. Also known as Catedral Primada or the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary, this twelfth-century work of art of French Gothic engineering required 266 years to complete.

At the north pinnacle of the church hangs the famous “Fat Bell”. It is arguably the biggest bell on the planet, however, it rarely rings. Many fables exist about why the bell is not rung now.

The highlight of the other side is the Baroque arch of the Mozarabic church. At the primary entrance are lion sculptures that give it the name “Portal of Lions”. 

The first plan was to construct two twin pinnacles for the church. But because of moving grounds found at the time of construction of the subsequent tower, the shorter Baroque arch was raised instead.

This is a Spanish landmark you must not miss even on a one-day trip to Toledo .

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 am. – 6:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm, Sundays and Public Holidays 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm; Admission: 5.50 €.

by Sinjana at Backpack & Explore

Just an hour’s drive from Madrid, the capital of Spain, is an unspoiled oasis of peace and relaxation, surrounded by nature, good food, incredible landscapes, and extraordinary architecture. This is Cuenca, a gorgeous town in central Spain, often outside the tourist’s radar.

The whole city appears to be trapped in the past, with narrow streets that make it unique. Cuenca is an off-the-beaten-path destination in Spain. You will fall in love with this cute city, the inhabitants, and the scenic views over the valley.

The ancient city was founded by the Muslims and then conquered back by the Christians. Now it jealously guards a treasure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, called“Las Casas Colgantes”, or the hanging houses.

This is one of the most popular sightseeing of Cuenca – a series of houses built on the rock, hanging above the Huécar River. The view from the “Puente de San Pablo” is extraordinary.

The hanging houses of Cuenca attract tourists from all over the world. Some of the apartments are currently occupied by people living there but others are today Michelin-star awarded restaurants and gorgeous hotels.

You can discover inside these ancient but well-maintained houses, experience how locals live, and keep one of the most precious landmarks in Spain.

No admission costs for this beautiful place, however, a reservation to the restaurant is needed, but feel free to show up at the door, and just enjoy a drink or two on the panoramic terrace.

by Toti at Italian Trip Abroad

Lonely windmills and the ruins of solitary castles await lucky travelers who venture off the beaten path in Spain. Castilla-La Mancha is where Cervantes set the journeys of his hero, Don Quixote.

Along the road to the 12th-century Castle of Muela, atop the Cerro Calderico ridge, you’ll find 12 Molinos de Viento (windmills!) They’re called tower mills and were built to grind grain and modeled on Dutch windmills. 13 were built and used until the 1980s.

Now 12 are open for tourists and you can visit two that are still working. The Tourist Office is in one of the windmills giving you an opportunity to look around inside.

It’s easy to reach Consuegra by car from Toledo (60 kilometers away) or Madrid.

Opening Hours: Always open to walk around; Admission: Free

One of the coolest and most unique landmarks in Spain is definitely located in Valencia , City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia) also known as Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Situated at the end of Turia Park, a visit to this futuristic attraction is a must on any city break.

The complex, which was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, consists of several modern buildings that were opened between 1998 and 2009 and house various museums, exhibitions, and gardens.

As one of the highlights, the opera is also located here! The integrated water landscapes are particularly beautiful and give this sight that certain something.

The most worthwhile attractions in the City of Arts and Sciences are the 3D cinema L’Hemisfèric, the Science Centre, L’Oceanogràfic, L’Umbracle, and the Opera. If you like, you can also rent a boat and paddle around the water landscape. You should plan some time for a visit here to see the best attractions.

It’s also great that the area can be visited completely free of charge. However, if you want to visit the buildings from the inside, you have to pay an entrance fee. You can save money with combination tickets that include several exhibitions.

The area can be visited at any time of day, most of the exhibitions, as well as the aquarium open from 9:30, am and closing at 5:00 pm in the evening.

Opening Hours: Always open; Admission: Free, Aquarium entrance fee is € 8,00

by Martina at Places of Juma

‘La Seu’ in Catalan is a major landmark you can’t miss seeing when holidaying on the spectacular Spanish island of Majorca. It was built opposite a large Moorish palace at a time when the Moors had invaded Spain.

Made from gold sandstone in the fourteenth century, you can’t but help see this imposing cathedral on the ocean in Palma.

But it is the inside of this Cathedral that is so unusual, It has an enormous nave – 44 meters long and its tall ceilings are held upright by some of the thinnest weight-bearing columns in the world. When you consider that this is one the tallest Cathedrals in all of Europe, that’s a major engineering feat!

The massive Rose window you see from the ocean side creates a vast amount of stained-glass light into the Cathedral/ It’s why the Cathedral got its name as the “Cathedral of Light.”

Opening Hours: 9 am to midnight; Admission: € 20.00 and up

The Drach Caves (Cuevas del Drach) are on the eastern coast of southern Mallorca, at Porto Cristo. This natural cave formation of four interconnected caves contains a large underground lake (Lake Martel).

Lake Martel is connected to the sea and at high tide, salt is deposited in the caves. Its name comes from a legend of a dragon believed to guard the entrance to the cave from the sea.

You can take the stairways yourself or take a short boat ride through the caves on Lake Martel. A quartet plays classical music at the base of the cave to the delight of unknowing tourists who have taken a boat ride. This concert has been occurring here since 1935.

It takes an hour to travel the 1.2 kilometers underground past vivid turquoise pools and below a serrated cavern ceiling with lighting effects along the way.

Opening Hours: Tours on the hour between 10 am and 5 pm, and until 3 pm on weekends; Admission: €16,00 (includes boat tour and concert )

The Teatro Romano is a major landmark of Mérida that was built in 16 – 15 AC on the orders of the Roman Consul, Marco Agrippa.

But for hundreds of years, it was just called “The Seven Chairs” because only 7 stone bleachers could be seen. The rest of the Theater was buried.

When it was finally excavated, the 7 Chairs turned out to be part of the orchestra section, with three stands around it. It was discovered in 1951 and the two-tier stage is made up of Corinthian columns.

Sculptures of gods have been found along the two rows of marble columns that make up the stage including Pluto, Proserpina, and Ceres.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm; Admission: Free

In the center of Valencia is the Lonja de la Seda, or as it is called in Spanish, Llotja de Valencia . Step inside this lovely building and be amazed at the twisty columns of this impressive space.

This is a building that was built to the god of money – it’s an old Silk Exchange and is one of the best civil Gothic monuments in all of Europe.

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, the Lonja was built in the fifteenth century when Valencia became so wealthy, that it needed a larger Exchange.

The lower floors include a wonderful domed ceiling 17.4 meters high with 8 wonderful twisty columns, and a chapel.

But the upper floors were where the city imprisoned Valencians who didn’t pay their debts!

Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays , 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays and public holidays, 10 am to 2 pm Admission: €2, free on Sundays and public holidays.

The Great Mosque-Cathedral in Córdoba is the largest mosque in Spain. It was completed in 987. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is visited for its architecture, beauty, and Islamic history.

The Great Mosque was built on top of Visigothic remains dating back to the early 6th century and obtained its current appearance during an expansion phase between 961 and 966.

It is composed of a series of horseshoe-arched interconnecting prayer halls with the main prayer hall in the middle.

Its double rows of tiered arches in the original section are one of the most photographed parts of this incredible structure. It’s been described as having “countless pillars like rows of palm trees in the oases of Syria.”

The courtyard contains a garden that was planted in 808. This makes it the oldest continually planted Islamic garden in the world. It’s called the Courtyard of the Orange Trees.

The Great Mosque was converted to a Cathedral in 1236 when King Ferdinand III of Castile conquered Córdoba. Muslims have mounted campaigns to try and worship again at the Great Mosque, but Spanish Christians have not agreed.

Opening Hours: Daily 9 am to 8 pm (closed Friday prayer times – approximately 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and 25 December and 1 January). Admission: €9 per person.

You would expect a monumental place like this to be located in a grand city in Italy but this one is located just out of Seville in Spain and it is spectacular.

Italica was the birthplace of 2 Roman Emperors, Trajan, and Hadrian , and was the first Roman city in Spain. What was once a thriving city is now in ruins but as you walk the tree-lined streets you can get a feeling of how important it was.

The mosaics that lined the floors of the homes of the people that lived there are still bright and easy to see. Columns and even a statue of Trajan are still able to be seen as you wander the straight cobblestone streets. These are all stunning to see but what will blow you away is the Amphitheatre.

Built to hold 25,000 it was the 3rd largest Colosseum in the Roman Empire and as you stand in the center looking out you wonder what the walls would have seen.

There is a small museum on-site that tells you the story of how Italica rose, thrived, fell, and went into ruin. It will surprise you how the buildings were demolished and the stone reused in a damn nearby and it will amaze you how artifacts survived so well here from the 2nd century BC.

Opening hours: Vary throughout the year so it is best to check their website for detailed opening times. Admission: Free for EU citizens with the presentation of ID and € 1.50 for residents of other countries.

by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

Las Setas is one of the newer landmarks to grace the skyline of Seville in southern Spain – Andalusia. Officially known as the Metropol Parasol – it is a unique wooden structure that almost looks like a mushroom. 

The structure was designed by a German architect named Jürgen Mayer and was opened to the public in 2011. 

The structure has various names including ‘las setas’, ‘antiquarium’ (which is housed in the same complex, and of course Metropol Parasol. Locals also call it the ‘mushroom’ – due to its shape.

This landmark structure is made up of six large parasols, and a visitor can walk there to soak in the amazing city views of Seville. Consider heading there in the evening for sunset views. 

The Antiquarium is located in the basement of the structure. It is a museum dedicated to (Roman) archaeological remains that were once found here. 

This complex includes a market, a museum, and a restaurant. It was renovated and revamped to invite visitors to the Antiquarium, and in turn, also uplifted the Encarnacion Square and the nearby area. Today it also hosts different types of cultural events here.

Its exact address is Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla, Spain, and is located at La Encarnación Square, in the old quarter of Seville. Las Setas is free to explore from the market.. 

Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 am to 1 am; Admission: €15 entry to the top of the mushroom (viewing platform)

by Mayuri from To Some Place New

The Seville Cathedral is not only a famous landmark in Spain, as the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, but this impressive church is also well-known across Europe.

The ornate and expansive cathedral was built as a way to display the city’s wealth and prosperity and to replace the Grand Mosque that stood on the site prior to the Christian rule of Spain. 

Also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site is not only an architectural marvel, but it is also an important historical landmark. 

The church, which remains the fourth largest cathedral in the world, took nearly 130 years to complete and houses the tomb of explorer Christopher Columbus, who is often credited with discovering the Americas and opening the door for European colonization in the “New World”. 

Its most notable feature, the Giralda Bell Tower was once part of the original Muslim mosque. Visitors can climb the 343-foot tall tower via a series of spiraling ramps and stairs. The lookout at the top of the tower offers panoramic views of the city.

Located in the heart of Seville and directly across from the Real Alcazar, the cathedral is an easy addition to any Seville itinerary . 

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:45 am to 5 pm, Sunday 2.30 pm to 6 pm.; Admission: € 10,00

by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

The Royal Alcázar of Seville is a must-see landmark located in Seville, Spain. Seville itself is not the first destination people think to travel to when visiting Spain, but it’s an off-the-beaten-path attractions full of gorgeous architecture with Moorish and Christian influences.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The highlight of visiting is seeing the beautiful long pool in the center of the palace in the Patio de las Doncellas. Here you can also see the impressive Mudéjar architecture in Seville. Mudéjar is a form of architecture with heavy Moorish influences.

The gardens surrounding are also enjoyable to relax in and take your time strolling through. Tickets can be purchased onsite or on the official website in advance. Booking ahead will allow you to avoid long wait times as it can get busy during peak season.

Opening Hours: It is open from 9:30 am to 7 pm daily; Admission: General € 14.50

By Jackie at Jou Jou Travels

One of Spain’s most charming landmarks is without a doubt,  Seville’s Plaza de España . The city’s most well-known plaza was designed by the famous Spanish architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Expo that was held in the year 1929.

With a diameter of almost 200 meters, there are plenty of things for you to explore on this beautifully half-moon-shaped square.

However, it is most known for its mosaic-covered benches that represent Spain’s various provinces. This is one of the reasons why many Spanish tourists travel to Seville each year, as they simply want to take a picture with the bench of their own province. 

Although it was after the much-needed restoration of 2010 that the Plaza de España truly regained its glory. Make sure to take in this reclaimed beauty from the water by renting a small boat and navigating your way through the plaza’s canal.

When cruising through the canal, you will come across four bridges, symbolizing Spain’s four ancient kingdoms.

Another thing that stands out immediately when you enter the Plaza de España located at Seville’s María Luisa Park is the big fountain at the square’s center.

It’s the combination of all these charming elements that make Plaza de España a place that you can simply not miss when visiting Andalusia’s capital. You can admire the square’s astonishing beauty for free at any given time of the day. 

by Stéphanie at Bey of Travel

Chances are that you may have seen pictures of the soaring arches of the Puente Nuevo in Ronda, Spain, as it spans the gaping chasm that is the El Tajo gorge, but you never quite knew where in the world it was.

Puente Nuevo is a magnificent feat of engineering that is situated in Ronda, one of the regions of Andalucia’s most famous white villages, or ‘Pueblo Blancos’. 

The town of Ronda itself is one of the oldest in Spain, having been first occupied by the Celts, followed by the Romans and the Moors.

Besides its unique location and exceptionally beautiful natural surroundings, the town is also famed as being the birthplace of Spain’s controversial sport of bullfighting and its 18th-century bullring is one of the town’s most recognizable emblems.

As the town grew, space in the old town became somewhat hard to find, so buildings began to pop up on the other side of the gorge. The old town and the new town needed to be linked and thus the spectacular Puente Nuevo was conceived.

From the bottom of the gorge to the town above, the bridge reaches a whopping 98m and took over 30 years to complete. Many also lost their lives throughout the building project in the 18th century.

Somewhat surprisingly, neither the spectacular Puente Nuevo nor the unique town of Ronda are UNESCO world heritage sites , but a visit to see both is not only very worth your while but an experience you will not likely forget. 

Opening Hours: Always open Admission: Free

by Issey at Issy’s Escapades

One of the most impressive landmarks in Spain is El Caminito del Rey, a dramatic boardwalk pinned 100 meters on the vertical wall of Desfiladero de Los Gaitanes Gorge.

It used to be the most dangerous hike in the world, but was rebuilt in 2015 and now has extensive safety measures. You can still see the old path beneath the new one and it gives you an idea about the danger adventure seekers were in as they walked it even when it was illegal.

Originally it was built to carry material when building the dam at the end of the gorge at the beginning of the 1900s. The walk was named the King’s Pathway after King Alfonso XII walked the path in 1921 to inaugurate the Conde del Guadalhorce Dam.

Caminito del Rey has quickly turned into one of the most popular hikes in Malaga and tickets often must be booked weeks in advance.

The cost is 10 Euros for self-guided walks and 18 Euros for guided walks in Spanish or English. Tickets include a mandatory helmet and a safety brief.

The hike is one-way and takes about 2 hours, but there is a bus service that takes you back to the starting point if you have your car there. The hike starts at El Kiosko Restaurant (Ardales) and there are two walks to the checkpoint where the actual Caminito del Ray starts.

One route takes 20 minutes and the other takes 50 minutes. If you come by train from Malaga, you can take the bus from El Chorro to El Kiosko Restaurant before the hike. It ends in El Chorro not far from the train station.

Opening Hours: Daily shuttle bus departs 8.30 am until 4.30 pm Admission: € 10,00 and up

by Linn at Andalucia Hiking

Antequera Dolmens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Andalusia near the town of Antequera, with a difference.

There are 3 cultural monuments that are the giant megalithic structures called the Menga and Viera dolmens and the Tholos of the Romeral. 

But there are two other natural formations that are part of this World Heritage listing – the El Torcal and La Peña de Los Enamorados mountain features. The Menga Dolmen looks at the Peña de los Enamorados and the Tholos of the Romeral is built to face El Torcal. This makes the five structures together a unique ancient megalithic site.

The Dolmen are considered masterpieces of megalithic architecture. It is extraordinary to see inside the Menga Dolmen, a giant structure made 6000 years ago by Neolithic people. UNESCO calls it a “masterpiece of the human creative genius.”

It’s free to visit the Dolmens and there is parking on site. It’s just trickier to figure out when they’re open.

Opening Hours: Varies according to day and month; Admi ssion: Free

Worthy of mention among the most impressive landmarks in Spain is the unique karst landscape you find at El Torcal de Antequera in the province of Malaga.

Formed over millions of years, the area was once under the sea. As the earth’s crust started moving, it was pressed up and now it’s situated at 1200 meters of altitude.

With its trails crisscrossing through captivating rock formations revealing natural tunnels, natural sculptures, and even a few fossils, this is one of the most impressive hikes in Spain for the whole family.

There is a parking lot by the interpretation center at the top, but that usually fills up early, so you might have to park at the bottom of the hill and either walk up or take the shuttle bus that costs about a Euro one way.

There are no good options for public transport to get there unless you take a taxi from Antequera.

The site itself is free to visit at all times, but it requires that you respect nature and the local inhabitants, the mountain goats which is another exciting reason to visit this place.

The animals are used to people and might be seen close to the trails, but remember that they are wild animals. Make sure you don’t chase them, feed them, or scare them in any way. It’s extremely important to leave no trace so that they don’t eat human food in any way.

by Linn at Brainy Backpackers

La Alcázaba de Málaga, located on a hill in the center of Málaga next to the Roman theatre, is a must-see attraction when you’re visiting this beautiful city in Southern Spain.

This fortress-palace was built in the early 11th century, and its purpose was mainly for the military due to its great location – close to the port of Malaga. 

Nowadays, not only can you learn about the history and Moorish influence of this palace, but also you can walk through the beautiful gardens decorated with jasmines and fountains, patios, and other parts of the building that will remind you of the famous Alhambra in Granada.

One of the best things to do in La Alcázaba is to walk on the walls and contemplate the amazing panoramic views – one of the best views in the city.

Another reason to visit this palace is that it’s one of the best-preserved Alcázaba in Spain.

Opening Hours: 9 am to 8 pm from April to October and from 9 am to 6 pm from November to March; Admission: 3,50€ or 5,50€ if you’d also like to visit Gibralfaro Castle which is next to La Alcázaba. However, you can visit it for free on Sundays after 2 pm.

by Cristina at My Little World of Travelling

The spellbinding architectural wonder that is the Alhambra is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain and is a must-visit attraction in Southern Spain. It was so-called because of its reddish walls which mean ‘Red Castle’ in Arabic.

Built in the mid-14 th century as a hilltop palace for the Moorish royals, the Alhambra complex consists of fascinating architectural buildings that attract millions of tourists from around the world every year.

With more than 12 centuries of history, the palace consists of different architectural influences which makes Alhambra one of the most unique palaces in the World.

The complex consists of Nasrid Palaces, the most beautiful part of this complex; the Alcazaba, a fortress overlooking the spectacular view of Granada; and the Generalife encompassing nice gardens and a smaller palace.

Because it is a World-renowned UNESCO World Heritage site , this unique palace is very popular among travelers and you need to reserve tickets a few months in advance.

Each ticketed entrance includes a visit to all the parts of the complex with Nasrid Palace access only during the time slot indicated on the ticket.

Opening Hours : 8.30 am to 8 pm (1st April- 14th October) or 6 pm (15 th October – 31 st March) ; Admission: € 14,00 , children under 12 free

by Sunetra at Globetrotting Su

The Alcázaba de Almeria shines over the city and is an architectural symbol of Spain’s Moorish history . Its construction on the Iberian peninsula originated in the Andalusian city.

The fortress dates back to the Muslim period and is situated at the bottom of Gibralfaro Hill. It can be seen from any part of the city which is unsurprising at it’s the largest Muslim fortress in both Spain and Europe .

It is among the most important places to visit in Spain because tourists can discover the architecture from the 955 to the XV century, and learn about the culture of the Moors in Almeria and the Iberian Peninsula.

The top of the fortress walls offers marvelous views of the port and the city. Additionally, tourists can discover shady courtyards, bathing areas, and beautiful gardens, or go back. Even though the glory of the original Alcázaba can’t be recovered, it is still a relic of Spain’s history and that is why it is an important striking monument to visit.

This well-reserved fortress is a part of UNESCO’s listing and is a must-visit destination in Southern Spain. Travelers have to climb up the zig-zag ramp to reach the fortress but it’s worth it as it is one of the best things to do in Almeria.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am to 6 pm and 9 am to 3 pm on holidays. Admission: Free for European citizens, €1.50 for others.

by Paulina at Paulina on the Road

55. Timanfaya National Park UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

If it were not for the deep blue sky, many photos taken in Timanfaya Park on Lanzarote could pass for landscapes of the planet Mars. 

Timanfaya is one of the best national parks not only in the Canary Islands but also in all of Spain. In 1968 this fascinating area was declared a national park: Parque Nacional de Timanfaya. In 1993, UNESCO designated Timanfaya a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Many travelers come to Lanzarote just for the Park Timanfaya.  So if you are not sure which Canary Island to choose for your first visit , Lanzarote is a great choice.

In Timanfaya, you can see unique landscapes, volcanoes , and pristine lava fields in an area of 5,000 hectares. Vegetation and climate have not had time to change the beauty of this black-red earth, which has not been touched by the human hand. 

In addition to admiring the unique nature, you can try a volcano barbecue in Timanfaya Park, as there is a restaurant built over the crater of the hottest volcano on the island. 

Approaching the National Park from Yaiza, it is impossible to miss the starting point of the camel trekking route, Echadero de Camellos. This walk takes about 30 minutes and is a fun thing to do.

Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 am 5:45 pm; Admission: adults €9; children (7 to 12 years) €4.50

by Sasha at the Alternative Travel Guide 

🧳 Best Gaudi Buildings in Barcelona

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30 Best Things to Do in Spain + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | 30 Best Things to Do in Spain + MAP

Spain is a country rich in history, culture, gastronomy, and beautiful landscapes. There are so many things to do in Spain , from visiting its small towns and wonderful beaches to exploring its vivid cities and landmarks.

If you want to know which tourist attractions in Spain you can’t miss, I’ll share the 30 best places and activities in this guide. Not all of them are so well known, but I can assure you that they’ll leave you speechless.

So, are you ready to discover the best places to visit in Spain ?

1. Alhambra of Granada, one of the best places to visit in Spain

Andalusia has a rich Muslim history that’s still present today, which has resulted in some of the best architecture in Spain . The best example of this is the Alhambra in Granada , one of the most famous places in Spain .

This palatial fortress is comprised of a series of Nasrid palaces adorned with white marble columns and muqarnas, which once housed sultans. Moreover, from here, you can see the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the entire city of Granada. Without a doubt, it’s a must-see in Spain , and my favorite part is the Generalife gardens and fountain. If you plan a trip to Southern Spain , you must visit it.

The Alhambra is wildly popular, so if you want full access to the Nasrid palaces, the Alcazaba, the Generalife gardens, and the Partal, I recommend buying your ticket months in advance ; especially during peak season when same-day tickets are impossible to get.

• Recommended accommodation : Hotel Casa Morisca , in the historic neighborhood of Albayzin, at the foot of the Alhambra, is the best option. You’ll have impressive views of the Alhambra and the Generalife, and easy access to the palaces .

2. Visit Seville, one of the best things to do in Spain

Seville is one of the best cities to visit in Spain . I recommend spending at least two days here so you can enjoy everything that Seville has to offer. For example, you’ll love La Giralda, a majestic, 800-year-old Almohad tower that crowns the city’s Cathedral.

Furthermore, the Plaza de España is one of the most iconic points of interest in Spain . Dating back to 1929, it was designed by architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exhibition. You should also walk through the labyrinthine streets of the old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, visit the Alcázar Gardens, and try some local tapas.

Seville is known as the birthplace of flamenco , and, as probably you already know, watching a flamenco show is one of the best activities in Spain . This Triana tablao flamenco show is, no doubt, the best way to experience this part of the Spanish culture, so make sure you book some time for this activity.

As you can see, there is a lot to do in Seville, so I recommend booking tickets to the Cathedral and La Giralda in advance . You may also like this river cruise along the Guadalquivir River, which goes past the Torre del Oro and Triana Bridge.

• Recommended accommodation : The Meliá Lebreros is located just 0.2 miles from the train station, 0.1 miles from the Nervión metro stop, and a few minutes’ walk from the city center .

3. Timanfaya National Park, a beautiful place in Spain you should see

With its gorgeous scenery, Timanfaya National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote .

Walking among the volcanic landscape is like landing on the moon; the geomorphological structures formed from the eruptions of 1730, 1736, and 1824, resulting in one of the top tourist attractions in Spain . Moreover, the combination of red, orange, ochre, and black tones contrast brilliantly against the radiant blue sky. No doubt why this is one of the most popular national parks in Spain.

To see everything that this national park has to offer, I recommend this 1-day tour , which includes admission to the park. It’s an adventurous thing to do in Spain , and you’ll also see La Geria, El Golfo, Charco de Los Clicos, and many other places.

• Recommended accommodation : I definitely recommend the Hotelito del Golfo since it’s the only hotel in the natural park and one of the best places to stay in Lanzarote .

4. Hanging Houses of Cuenca, another famous place in Spain

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca , also known as the King’s Houses, are a series of homes built into a rocky ledge. The houses have large balconies overlooking the Huécar river gorge, making it one of the coolest places in Spain .

The best way to see this historic site in Spain is on a free walking tour with a local guide (it’s in Spanish). Moreover, if you have time, you can visit the Enchanted City and the Cuervo River , two natural wonders in Spain ’s Cuenca province.

• Recommended accommodation : I highly recommend the world-renowned Parador de Cuenca , considered one of the most beautiful paradores in Spain . You’ll have spectacular views since it hangs off the cliff, right in front of the Hanging Houses .

5. See the architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona

If there is a Spanish landmark you must see during your trip, it’s the Sagrada Familia . This famous church in Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí’s modernist masterpiece and an example of the best architecture in Spain .

The cathedral has been under construction for over 100 years, yet it remains one of the top places of interest in Barcelona and all of Spain. The line to get in can last for hours, but it’s well worth going inside, so I recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

While you’re in Barcelona, be sure to check out another Gaudí masterpiece: Park Güell . Another must-see in Spain , this huge architectural garden is full of native flora, undulating pathways, and colorful mosaics. If you want to avoid the line to get in, purchase this ticket in advance, or book this free guided tour with an expert who will tell you all about this World Heritage Site.

Finally, Barcelona is one of the best cities in Spain and has so much to offer, so you can also do this free tour to see some other important monuments in the historic city center. If you prefer to explore on your own, we have a complete guide on things to do in Barcelona .

• Recommended accommodation : The Ayre Hotel Rosellón is right in front of the Sagrada Familia, and you can see it from the hotel’s rooftop terrace, so I plan to stay there during my next trip. Another high-quality accommodation in the city is the W Barcelona , which boasts spectacular views of the sea .

6. Prado Museum & El Retiro Park, Madrid

As we continue this list of things to do in Spain , we move to the capital city of Madrid. In our guide on things to do in Madrid , you will find that this city has it all: recreation, great food, culture, and incredible museums. In fact, the Prado Museum in Madrid is Spain’s most popular museum, with three million annual visitors.

Not only is it one of the most recognized museums in the world, but the Prado also has famous works like Goya’s Black Paintings and Velázquez’s Las Meninas , and loads of galleries that you can get lost in. The museum often has long lines, so I recommend getting your ticket in advance. Also, if you want to dedicate your day to the arts, be sure to check out the Reina Sofía Museum , which is just a few minutes’ walk away.

That said, the Prado Museum is right next to El Retiro Park , another top attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This World Heritage Site is one of the largest parks in Madrid and once belonged to the Spanish monarchy. As such, it’s a lovely place with a big lake, lush gardens, historic monuments like the Alfonso XII Monument, the Fountain of the Fallen Angel, and the Crystal Palace. Without a doubt, this whimsical park is one of the best places to visit in Spain .

• Recommended accommodation : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is in Madrid’s Art Triangle, close to the Prado, El Retiro, Reina Sofía, the Thyssen Museum, and the Barrio de las Letras .

7. Aqueduct of Segovia, a historical Spanish landmark you can’t miss

The Aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most important historical sites in Spain and an impressive feat of Roman engineering. Its construction dates back to the beginning of the 2 nd century, to transport water from the Sierra mountains to Segovia (although the legends attribute this to the devil himself).

In addition to the aqueduct, Segovia is a beautiful city with some of the best sightseeing in Spain . During your time here, I recommend taking this guided tour of the Segovia Cathedral and eating a roasted suckling pig at the Mesón de Cándido, a restaurant located beneath the aqueduct.

• Recommended accommodation : The Real Segovia by Recordis Hotels is in the heart of the city, at the Plaza de las Sirenas, and is the best place you can stay in Segovia .

8. See the Lakes of Covadonga & Picos de Europa, a cool thing to do in Spain

Next, we go further north to the Lakes of Covadonga and the Picos de Europa , two beautiful places in Spain that you must visit at least once in your life.

Covadonga was the first capital of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias and is one of the most charming places in Spain , thanks to its religious sanctuary. From there, you can make the ascent towards the Lakes of Covadonga, which offer impressive views of the expansive landscape and, of course, a few Asturian cows along the way.

If you don’t want to drive to the lakes on your own, you can take this excursion from Cangas de Onís, which will take you past the Picos de Europa National Park , one of Spain’s wildest natural treasures.

• Recommended accommodation : The Arcea Gran Hotel Pelayo , with views of Covadonga Cathedral, is a lovely hotel where you can go hiking, cycling, and canoeing .

9. Molinos de la Mancha, another popular place to visit in Spain

If you like literature, surely you know Don Quixote . That means you’ll love visiting the famous Molinos de la Mancha , another cultural point of interest in Spain .

There are a few ways to get there, but I recommend the Molinos de Consuegra so you can see these charming 19 th -century windmills. Not only are these striking white windmills a beautiful addition to the Spanish countryside, but they’re a wonderful reminder of the pivotal works by Cervantes.

• Recommended accommodation : El Patio de los Jazmines is a lovely rural hotel recognized by the government’s Junta de Castilla-La Mancha and is perfect for getting lost among the old mills in the countryside .

10. Teide National Park, Tenerife, an incredible attraction in Spain’s Canary Islands

Teide National Park is another must-see in Spain since it has the highest peak in all the Canary Islands, and all of Spain.

It has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can bet that it offers some of the best views in Spain . We have a guide on how to climb Mount Teide , so if you’d like to do the climb but have doubts, be sure to read it. My suggestion is to take the cable car , then climb the 12,200 feet to the crater summit.

If you prefer to do the climb with a guide, check out one of the best Teide tours . In any case, I think it’s an incredible thing to do in Spain that you should do!

• Recommended accommodation : The Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide , located over 6,500 feet above sea level, offers magnificent views of Mount Teide and the arid volcanic surroundings. It’s the perfect place to start (or end) your day in Teide National Park .

11. Visit the Roman Theater of Mérida, an unforgettable activity in Spain

Another great work left by the Romans is the Roman Theater of Mérida . Its construction was ordered by Agrippa, son-in-law of Augustus, between 16 and 15 B.C., and today, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Spain .

Over its 2,000 years of existence, the theater has become the architectural ruins that you’ll see today. Even so, it’s one of the most magnificent parts of the Archaeological Ensemble of Mérida and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of Hispania and visit the Roman Theater and other ruins like the Moorish Alcazaba citadel, the Morerías Archaeological Zone, the Casa del Amphitheater, and the Roman Amphitheatre, I recommend this combined pass with a guide .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Ilunion Mérida Palace is a restored 15th-century palace in the Plaza de España with a terrace pool and great views of the city .

12. Burgos Cathedral, another breathtaking place to visit in Spain

The Burgos Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful churches in the country, so it’s a must-see in Spain .

Its construction began 800 years ago, in 1221, following the French Gothic style. Throughout history, it has undergone various restoration efforts that have kept it alive and given it some unique design details. Two standout features are the two exterior towers and the splendid Gothic-Plateresque dome. Inside, you can’t miss the Altarpiece, the Constable’s Chapel, and the Golden Staircase.

 If you want to discover all the secrets of this architectural marvel, I recommend taking this guided tour of the cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Crisol Mesón del Cid is one of the best hotels in Burgos, with a central location that makes it easy to explore the narrow historic streets .

13. See the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, an enjoyable thing to do in Spain with kids

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a cultural and entertainment complex and one of the best tourist attractions in Spain .

The complex was designed by the famous architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela and houses some of the best activities in Spain that you can do as a family. Among them are L’Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe; L’Hemisfèric, a planetarium and the largest laser projection room in Spain; and a three-story science museum. If you get the full ticket , you’ll gain access to all the interactive exhibits and gallery spaces, so it’s worth it.

• Recommended accommodation : The Ilunion Aqua 4 is in front of the City of Arts and Sciences and has a 9 th -floor Michelin star restaurant with panoramic views .

14. Great Mosque of Córdoba, one of the most famous attractions in Spain

The Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the most historic landmarks in Spain and a monument you must see to believe. Don’t be fooled by the name; it’s officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.

Along with the Alhambra, the Mosque of Córdoba is the most important monument of Andalusian architecture. It was declared a Site of Cultural Interest as part of Córdoba’s historic center and, in 2007, was selected by the public as one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. Moreover, it was awarded in a TripAdvisor contest as the best tourist destination in Europe and number six in the world.

As you can see, visiting the Great Mosque of Córdoba is one of the top things to do in Spain , and you can soak up all its history on this guided tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Hesperia Córdoba is on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, granting you lovely views of the Mosque and the medieval Alcazar fortress .

15. Wall of Ávila, another Spanish landmark you must see

It’s impossible to visit Ávila and not see the majestic Wall of Ávila . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important monuments in Spain that you should see at least once.

The wall has a perimeter of 1.5 miles and covers an area of 81.5 acres. Its 88 medieval towers reach a height of nearly 40 feet, making it one of the most incredible attractions in Spain . This impressive wall was completed between the 11 th and 14 th centuries and they’re the most complete fortifications in the country. Also, the wall’s nine gates were finished at different times, so they each reflect a different style.

It’s worth seeing this marvel, and you can learn more about it and other monuments in Ávila’s historic center on this free tour .

• Recommended accommodation : The Palacio de la Velada is an impressive 16th-century palace with luxurious rooms, and it’s right in front of the Ávila Cathedral. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves typical food from the region .

16. Balearic Islands, an unforgettable place to visit in Spain with friends

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in Spain in summer , the Balearic Islands are one of your best options. These islands are comprised of Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera, Ibiza, and Formentera; and other islets, such as Dragonera, Conejera or S’Espalmador.

The Balearic Islands have some of the most beautiful landscapes and beaches in Spain. There’s a reason why it’s the third most-visited autonomous community in Spain, attracting both national and international tourists.

The most populous city here is the capital of Palma de Mallorca . If you go here, I suggest taking this free tour to learn more about its history. Also, this dolphin-watching tour in Palma de Mallorca is one of the best things to do in Spain with family .

Another island I recommend you see is Menorca , which is known for its lovely beaches, coves, and remains of the Talayotic Culture. Take a walk around the citadel, visit Mount Toro and the Mola Fortress, go to Mahón, or take a boat ride to discover the best coves.

Finally, Ibiza is known for its party atmosphere, but it has much more than that, so I’ll tell you all about that later .

17. Go to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, something to do in Spain if it rains

Going to Bilbao is one of the best things to do in northern Spain , and it has one of the coolest cultural attractions, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao .

Inaugurated in 1997, the museum is guarded by the Puppy , an impressive floral dog sculpture created by artist Jeff Koons. As for the design of the building, it’s the work of architect Frank Gehry and is one of the most representative examples of the avant-garde aesthetic of the 20 th century.

If you can, check out the museum at sunset when the play of light on the structure is beautiful. Inside, you’ll find 258,000ft² of space, 113,000 of which are intended for exhibitions. There are collections from local artists like Eduardo Chillida and international artists such as Mark Rothko and Yoko Ono . The museum also has a rotating roster of exhibits ranging from Chinese and Russian art to paintings and sculptures.

It’s best to buy tickets online since they’re cheaper and you’ll avoid unnecessary lines. Also, since you’ll be in Bilbao, take this free tour to learn all about this great historic center and attractions like the Arriaga Theatre, the Begoña Stairs, and the Santiago Cathedral.

• Recommended accommodation : The Hotel Carlton in Bilbao’s famous Plaza de Don Federico Moyúa is less than a 10-minute walk from the museum .

18. Toledo, one of the best cities to visit in Spain

Toledo is known as the City of Three Cultures and is another beautiful place to visit in Spain .

My number-one piece of advice is to not leave this city without seeing the Cathedral of Toledo , one of the most impressive churches in the world. It’s also worth visiting the Mirador del Valle, especially at sunset; the Alcantara Bridge; and the Monastery of San Juan, which is over 500 years old.

If you’d like to visit this city from top to bottom, I suggest getting the Toledo Card , which grants you skip-the-line admission to several monuments and a guided tour of the Cathedral .

• Recommended accommodation : The Eugenia de Montijo, Autograph Collection is named after the empress who owned this former palace, which has been converted into a luxury hotel. You won’t regret staying here !

19. Camino de Santiago, a popular thing to do in Spain

Without a doubt, one of the best activities in Spain is doing the Camino de Santiago, one of the best hikes in Spain . Some people do the route on foot, while others go by bike or even run. Whichever method you choose, I promise you it will be a unique experience.

The Camino de Santiago will transport you to some of the most beautiful places in Spain like the tomb of Santiago el Mayor, located in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral .

This route has its roots as a medieval Christian pilgrimage that started from the western Pyrenees. Today, the Camino de Santiago refers to the modern-day routes, such as the Camino Francés and Camino Portugués. As you travel along the route, you’ll meet many other pilgrims making the trek, as well as some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country.

Once you’ve fulfilled your mission and have arrived in Santiago de Compostela, you can receive your official certificate of completion. I also recommend taking this guided tour of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and its museum.

• Recommended accommodation : After such a rigorous journey, the best thing you can do is indulge yourself and stay at the Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos . Here, you can lounge like a king in a four-poster bed and enjoy traditional Galician dishes and seafood .

20. Eat paella in Valencia, a typical thing to do in Spain

One of the best things about traveling to a new place is trying different foods, so if you’re going to Spain, you must try paella . You can get paella throughout Spain, but one of the best places to get this traditional dish is in Valencia since it originated there.

Paella is a rice dish, and its name comes from the shallow frying pan that the original Valencian paella was cooked in. Traditional paella valenciana consists of rice, bajoqueta and tavella green beans, rabbit, chicken, and garrofó , a type of lima bean. The ingredients are cooked in olive oil, chicken broth, and saffron, which gives the paella its distinctive yellow color.

This is said to be the original recipe, although you can find all kinds of variations, including paella de mariscos (seafood paella). If you want the very best paella in Spain, be sure to order it in Valencia. Some restaurants that are known for their delicious paella include Casa Carmela, Casa Roberto, La Pepica, La Riuà, and Restaurante Levante.

Sitting around a table with a huge skillet of paella is one of the best things to do in Spain with friends , so you won’t regret traveling to Valencia to experience it!

• Recommended accommodations : Zenit Valencia has a restaurant, bar, gym, sauna, and it’s a few blocks from Casa Roberto. Another good nearby option is Ilunion Aqua 4 next to the City of Arts & Sciences .

21. RondA & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke, called Ronda the city of his dreams, and it’s not hard to see why. Ronda is one of the most beautiful places in Spain , and the best way to discover this town is with this free guided tour . Among the famous monuments here, you’ll get to see the New Bridge, which spans the city’s canyon.

You’ll also walk along the Paseo de Ernest Hemingway on the cliffs of El Tajo, which has a sculpture honoring the American writer. Furthermore, you’ll see the iconic balconies of the hanging houses, which hover almost 500 feet over a canyon gorge.

21. Ronda & Caminito del Rey, two magnificent places to visit in Spain

If you fancy something more active, nearby is the Caminito del Rey , one of the best hiking trails in Spain. You can do the route on your own, but if you don’t have much hiking experience, it’s better to do it with a guide . During the 3-hour excursion, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful landscape of cliffs, gorges, and tunnels.

• Recommended accommodation : To round out your visit to Ronda, I recommend the Parador de Ronda , located in the old town hall. You’ll have spectacular views of the gorge and the New Bridge .

22. Go to the oldest restaurant in the world in Madrid

Talking about food again, if you’re in Madrid, you must visit the oldest restaurant in the world , Sobrino de Botín . The restaurant was founded in 1725, and its cellar dates back to 1590.

Sobrino de Botín has an expansive history, especially among artists and creatives. Ernest Hemingway loved dining here, and he even featured the restaurant in one of his books. Also, the Spanish artist Francisco de Goya waited tables here before he got accepted into the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.

This tavern is one of the best places to visit in Spain because it’s like stepping back in time. The kitchen oven’s flame has been continuously burning all these years, and the menu consists of original recipes like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cordero asado (roast lamb), and sopa de ajo (a garlicky soup with poached egg).

Moreover, Sobrino de Botín is very close to Plaza Mayor , another popular attraction in Spain ’s capital city. This is one of the city’s main squares and the former center of Old Madrid. It was built during the reign of Philip II, and a bronze statue of the King still stands at the center of the plaza. Throughout the day, you can find tourists and locals passing through, shopping at the stores, or eating at the cafes. Plaza Mayor is also the site of various events throughout the year, including a Christmas market.

• Recommend accommodations : The Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado is a beautiful hotel, or you can stay at the Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid if you’d like to be closer to Plaza Mayor. The hotel has family rooms, a pet-friendly policy, and a spa, so you’ll be comfortable and close to several main attractions .

23. Santiago Bernabéu or Camp Nou, the perfect places to visit in Spain for soccer lovers

Soccer is one of the top activities in Spain , so if you’re a sports fan, there are two places I recommend you visit.

Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid is the famous home stadium for Real Madrid. With a capacity for over 81,000 people, it’s the second-largest stadium in Spain. If there is a game there during your stay, it’s worth going for the camaraderie and experience. Another option is this stadium tour to see the massive arena, exclusive areas for players, and memorabilia about the stadium’s history.

If you’re going to be in Barcelona, check out Camp Nou , the home stadium for FC Barcelona. It’s the biggest stadium in Spain and all of Europe, with seating for over 99,000 spectators. Besides hosting soccer games, Camp Nou is a popular venue for concerts and other events. It also has an on-site museum, so I recommend this tour , which takes you to the soccer pitch, the locker rooms, and the commentary box. You’ll also get to see videos, jerseys, and other items from FC Barcelona’s top players.

• Recommended accommodations : The H10 Tribeca is very close to Santiago Bernabéu and offers modern, sound-proof rooms with free Wi-Fi. If you want to stay near Camp Nou, NH Barcelona Stadium is a sustainable hotel with an on-site restaurant and views of Montjuïc .

24. San Lorenzo de El Escorial, one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Spain

The Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of the most important landmarks in Spain , as it’s the best example of the country’s “Golden Age” ideology of the 16 th century.

This World Heritage Site is comprised of the Royal Palace of King Philip II, a convent, a library with thousands of ancient books, and royal burial sites for several former monarchs. The Pantheon of Kings contains the remains of over two dozen royals from the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties.

Throughout its history, El Escorial has served as a basilica, a hospital, a library, a monastery, a museum, a pantheon, and a school. It’s a must-see in Spain thanks to its lovely marble walls, gold-plated accents, and formal gardens.

If you want to know more about this impressive monastery, I recommend you take this excursion , which also takes you to the Valley of the Fallen, an important monument from Spain’s Civil War era.

• Recommended accommodation : If you can, stay at the Exe Victoria Palace , which overlooks the San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Valmayor Reservoir, and the Sierra de Guadarrama. It also has a garden with an outdoor pool where you can lounge and beat the summer heat in Madrid .

25. Salamanca, a city with lots of fun things to do in Spain

Salamanca is a city with lots of cultural points of interest in Spain , like the New and Old Cathedrals, Plaza Mayor, and the Casa de las Conchas. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 and is home to the country’s oldest university.

Moreover, Salamanca is known for its historical monuments, so if you don’t want to miss anything here, I recommend this free tour . It’ll take you past the Plaza del Corrillo, the impressive architecture of the New Cathedral , and the Episcopal Palace, which houses the History Museum of Salamanca . Your guide will also point out the hidden figures etched into the façade of the University of Salamanca , which was founded in 1218.

For me, Salamanca is the most beautiful place to visit in Spain ’s Castilla y León region, so it’s a city you must visit at least once!

• Recommended accommodation : Stay at the Fenix Gran Meliá hotel, one of the most romantic hotels in Spain. It’s located next to the Plaza de Colón and features classic English furnishings and décor .

26. Visit the beaches of the Canary Islands, something to do in Spain as a couple

If you’re looking for things to do in Spain in winter , I heartily recommend going to the Canary Islands . The Islands are one of my favorite tourist spots in Spain thanks to its year-round temperate climate, its landscapes, and of course, its beautiful beaches.

The average temperature in the Canary Islands is around 68°F, and it rarely rains, so it’s the perfect place to go in the winter. Among all the activities to do here, one of the best things is sightseeing and witnessing the volcanic surroundings of the islands.

When you’re planning your trip, you’ll have to decide which is the best island in the Canary Islands for you. It’s a tough choice, so here are my top suggestions for each island:

• Things to do in Tenerife : Whale tours, Mount Teide, Anaga National Park, and Benijo Beach
• Things to see in Gran Canaria : The beach and dunes of Maspalomas, Roque Nublo
• Things to see in Lanzarote : Timanfaya, Papagayo Beach, and the works of César Manrique
• Things to do in Fuerteventura : Corralejo Dunes and Cofete Beach
• Things to see in La Palma : Roque de Los Muchachos and Caldera de Taburiente
• Things to do in La Gomera : Laurisilva (laurel forest) in Garajonay Natural Park
• Things to do in El Hierro : This quieter island is perfect for scuba diving

Whichever island you choose, you won’t regret it! Without a doubt, the Canary Islands are one of the best places to visit in Spain , so don’t pass them up !

27. San Sebastián, another unique place to visit in Spain

San Sebastián is another lovely city to see in Spain, particularly for its charming La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain .

That said, the most-visited part of San Sebastián and what makes it one of the best places to visit in Spain is its Old Town ( Parte Vieja ). Here, you can visit the Plaza de la Constitución and its colorful buildings, as well as Alameda del Boulevard, the main artery that connects the Old Town to the newer Donostia district. This free tour will tell you more about the town’s history and development.

Another great part about San Sebastián is its gastronomy, as it has the best pintxos (tapas) in the country. It’s worth indulging in the specialties here, and you can try all the best pintxos on this food tour .

• Recommended accommodations : I suggest staying at the Zenit Convento San Martin , which is just 500 feet from La Concha Beach. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and terrace, which is perfect for lounging in the summertime .

28. Go skiing in the Pyrenees, a fun activity in Spain you should do

If you like sports and you’re visiting Spain during the winter, you must go skiing in the Pyrenees .

Within the Catalan Pyrenees , I recommend the Baqueria-Beret ski resort, which has a wide variety of slopes and off-trail runs. If this is where you choose to go, stay at the Hotel Val de Neu , which offers free ski storage, as well as rooms and suites with views of the slopes. There is also the luxury Sisley Spa, where you can indulge in massages, beauty treatments, a thermal circuit, and an outdoor hot tub. It’s the perfect thing to do in Spain after spending a few hours on the slopes.

Another option is La Molina , with over 44 skiable miles. La Molina opened its doors in 1943, making it the oldest ski resort in Catalonia, and it was also the first in Spain to install a ski lift. Today, the resort has 69 slopes, 12 ski schools, and 400 instructors. It’s one of the best places to visit in Spain with family , although you can also train here. If you choose to go here, purchase your ski pass in advance here .

Finally, in the Pyrenees of Huesca, you can go to the Celer, Astún, and Formigal ski resorts. If you prefer something further south, check out the slopes of the Sierra Nevada .

29. Wine tastings in La Rioja, another nice thing to do in Spain as a couple

Spain has the most cultivated vineyards in the world and, it’s number three worldwide in terms of wine production. So, you can imagine that doing a wine tasting in La Rioja is one of the best things to do in Spain .

I mention La Rioja because it’s the creme de la creme regarding Spanish vineyards. If you’d like to immerse yourself in this culture, I recommend this tour , which takes you through the Rioja Vega winery’s grounds and barrel room. You’ll learn about the origins of Spanish wine and, of course, enjoy a guided tasting.

Without a doubt, La Rioja is one of the best places to go in Spain as a couple , although it’s also lots of fun with friends.

• Recommended accommodation : For a dreamy visit, stay at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal in Elciego, within La Rioja’s Alavesa province. Most of the rooms have built-in window seats overlooking the valley. You’ll also have access to the hotel’s Vinothérapie Spa by Caudalie Marqués de Riscal, which offers grape-infused treatments. There is also an indoor pool, a hammam, a Finnish sauna, and a gym, making it one of the most charming hotels in Spain .

30. Party in Ibiza, an awesome thing to do in Spain with friends

Ibiza is known around the world for its party atmosphere, and while it’s true that its nightlife is quite the experience, there is a lot more to this place.

Many areas of Ibiza are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so it’s one of the best islands to visit near Spain . Among these sites are the Renaissance walls of Old Town , the Ses Feixes Wetlands, and the remains of the first Phoenician settlement at Sa Caleta.

Another historic site is Dalt Vila , or High Town. It’s also worth visiting the scenic Punta d’es Moscarter on the northern tip of the island. You can learn more secrets about Ibiza’s Old Town and Dalt Vila on this free tour .

As you can see, Ibiza offers plenty of culture and history, so it’s one of the best holiday destinations in Spain if you’re looking for something different.

• Recommended accommodation : THB Los Molinos , located in Dalt Vila, is an adults-only hotel right on the beach. It has a sauna, hot tub, gym, and balcony rooms, as well as Balinese beds and a bar right next to the pool.

Spanish foods you must try

Trying some typical Spanish foods is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Spain . Below are some of the must-try foods I recommend:

• Paella : As I mentioned, paella is a rice dish that originated in Valencia, and it’s traditionally made with special types of green beans, lima beans, chicken, rabbit, and saffron.
• Gazpacho : This chilled soup is typically made with tomato, cucumbers, onion, bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, wine vinegar, water, salt, and crusty bread. It’s most popular in southern Spain.
• Tortilla de patatas : Also known as a Spanish omelet, this dish is made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s often served in smaller portions as a tapa .
• Patatas bravas : Forget French fries; patatas bravas are white potatoes fried in oil, then served with a spicy sauce. They’re often served as tapas , and they’re absolutely delicious.
• Sangria : This red wine mixed with chopped apples, berries, or stone fruits is a staple in Spain.
• Tapas : Tapas are small plates or appetizers that you typically eat with beer or wine. There are different varieties, but the most popular tapas include olives ( aceitunas ), meatballs ( albóndigas ), Russian salad ( ensaladilla rusa ), croquettes, patatas bravas , tortilla de patatas , fried cheese, fried squid rings ( calamares ), and sauteed prawns ( gambas ).

My advice is to come to this country hungry because sampling the traditional foods here is one of the most delicious activities in Spain !

How to get around Spain

Spain is great for road tripping and renting a car will help you see the places in Spain that I recommend here, as well as the surrounding areas. Besides, you can often rent a car in one town and drop it off at another, so it’s quite convenient.

If you want to find cheap car rentals , it’s best to read our guide first. In the past, we’ve mostly used DiscoverCars to get the best prices. Sometimes they’re up to three times cheaper than other websites, so I recommend to check them out.

Also, take into account that renting a car is not required in Spain since there are plenty of bus and train options if you don’t want to drive. To check the best bus/train/flights options in Spain we always use Omio .

And there you have the best things to do in Spain . If you’d like to tell me about your favorite tourist attractions in Spain , or you want to ask me any questions, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment. Until then, have a safe trip!

Ascen Aynat

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10 essential sights

The Alhambra

This is perhaps the most famous monument in Spain. You'll find it in Granada, and you'll be amazed at its palaces and gardens. Don't miss the Courtyard of the Lions.

Basilica of La Sagrada Familia

Designed by the brilliant architect Gaudí, this is the most visited religious building in Barcelona. Are you ready to go up to the top of its curious towers?

Great Mosque of Cordoba

Like standing in a magical forest of columns – that's how you'll feel inside this ancient architectural wonder.

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

This is the final destination of the pilgrims on the Way of Saint James. We recommend a guided tour of its rooftops.

Burgos Cathedral

This is the only cathedral in Spain to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Come and marvel at the light in this Gothic monument.

Alcázar of Segovia

Together with the aqueduct, the Alcázar fortress is the symbol of the city. It looks like a fairytale castle, and offers the most spectacular views.

Majorca Cathedral

It's particularly worth noting its spectacular and colourful rose window and the chapel designed by Miquel Barceló. Are you planning a visit to the city of Palma?

Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar

The perfect way to enjoy this treasure in Zaragoza is by taking a walk over the Puente de Piedra bridge across the Ebro River.

Roman theatre in Mérida

Although it was built in the year 16 or 15 B.C., it is still used as a theatre today, and can seat 3,000 people. Let the show begin!

La Giralda tower

One of the most charming places in Seville? Without a doubt, this tower (and former minaret), offering unforgettable views.

Travel plans for inspiring you

Mythology, legends and fun facts about monuments in Spain. Do you want to play? #SpainQuiz

Images of the Alhambra worth looking at again and again

Images of the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

The 10 Best Historic Sites in Spain

Discover the abundant history of spain, from seville cathedral to toledo sephardic museum and more, within this guide to the 10 best historic spanish cultural locations and monuments..

Peta Stamper

13 feb 2024.

Among the legacy left by Celts, Romans, Arabs and Catholic Monarchs are spectacular sites such as the Cordoba Roman Bridge, Santa Eulalia Basilica and El Escorial. Other popular sites tend to include Belchite , Lugo Roman Walls and the weirdly wonderful La Sagrada Familia, found in the heart of Catalonia – Barcelona.

The Romans laid the foundations for modern Spanish culture and identity. Spain was even the birthplace of important Roman emperors such as Trajan, Hadrian or Theodosius I.

In the early 8th century, the Visigoth Kingdom – who had taken southern Spain from the Romans – was invaded by the Umayyad Caliphate , ushering in over 700 years of Muslim rule. During this period, Al-Andalus became a major economic and intellectual centre.

Yet Christian kingdoms would soon emerge to reconquer Spanish lands, and from the 16th century would control one of the largest and richest empires in the world. Showcasing this fascinating legacy through its cultural locations, landmarks and monuments, we’ve put together an experts guide to the 10 Best Historic Sites in Spain.

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What are the 10 best historic sites in spain.

1. Cordoba Roman Bridge

Built by the Romans in the 1st century BC, the Roman Bridge of Cordoba,  Spain , as described in around 1140 by Arab geographer Muhammad al-Idrisi, ‘surpasses all other bridges in beauty and solidity’.

Rather than simply an object of beauty which it undoubtedly is, the bridge was a vital player in the city of Cordoba’s battles with, amongst others, the ominously-named Peter the Cruel in the 1350s.

Cordoba  Roman  Bridge was built in the 1st century BC and straddles the 657 kilometre Guadalquivir River. The bridge has 16 arches supported by irregular semi-cylindrical buttresses and is 247 metres long by approximately 9 metres wide.

2. Alhambra

Calat Alhambra or the “Red Fortress” in Granada is an incredible complex of royal palaces, mosques, baths, shops and other buildings surrounded by an imposing 2 kilometre fortified wall.

Today, the Alhambra is open to the public. You can tour its palaces, including the Palacio Nazaríes and the 16th century Palace of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor. The Alcazaba or “citadel” is another highlight of the Alhambra, this being the main element of the complex’s fortifications.

The Alhambra is centred on two main courtyards: the Court of the Lions and the Court of Myrtles, the former with a fountain and the latter with a long pool. Its beautiful Generalife gardens and buildings are also worth visiting, while the Alhambra Museum offers everything from Nasrid art to archaeological finds.

3. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is the third largest cathedral in the world, a World Heritage site and the resting place of colonial explorer, Christopher Columbus .

An impressive gothic structure and, with a total area of 11,520 square metres, Seville Cathedral is only beaten in size by London’s St Paul’s Cathedral and Rome’s St. Peter’s . Some even argue that it is actually the largest when comparing volume.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, the cathedral is an incredible historic site where visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of the building from inside, including its central nave which stands at a grand forty metres high. With its ornate, gold-laden interiors and eighty chapels, the scale of Seville Cathedral alone is quite a sight, coupled with the wealth of architectural influences, ranging from Gothic and Baroque to Mudejar.

The tomb of Christopher Columbus also offers a big draw to tourists, who flock to see the final resting place of this famous explorer.

4. Santa Eulalia Basilica - Merida

Santa Eulalia Basilica in Merida is an Ancient Roman church the remains of which lie under the present 18th century church.

The namesake of Santa Eulalia Basilica was a 13 year-old girl who was martyred upon being burnt at the stake during the Christian persecutions under Emperor Diocletian. According to legend, she is buried nearby.

The Santa Eulalia Basilica’s particularly interesting feature is the crypt, within which you can see the 20 centuries of Merida’s history through the Roman mausoleums, a tomb sealed with mosaics, or tombs from the Visigoth period sealed with marble.

5. El Escorial

Intended to mark the celebration of Spain’s victory over the French in the Battle of St Quentin, El Escorial was constructed between 1563 and 1567 by Juan Bautista de Toledo, a Spanish architect who had spent much of his career in Rome . It would go on to serve as the king’s palace and the seat of his empire.

The basilica is the central part of the complex: look out for the gorgeous white Carrara marble statues and paintings by El Greco, amongst other 16th, 17th and 18th Spanish and Flemish artists.

It’s worth getting a map and plotting out highlights – there’s a vast amount to see in the imposing buildings and you can easily spend a day here.

6. El Miguelete

El Miguelete (The Micalet Tower) is an iconic gothic bell tower built in 1381 and joined onto Valencia Cathedral in the 15th century. El Miguelete means ‘Little Michael’ and comes from the name of its biggest bell made in 1532 weighing over 10 tons.

Construction of the Valancian cathedral’s bell tower, El Miguelete, began in 1381 directed by master builder Andreu Julià of the Valencian Gothic style. The imposing design and size of the cathedral and bell tower reasserted Valencia’s Christian identity after Muslim dominance from the 8th to mid 13th century.

However, it was El Miguelete’s complex design, including a helical stairwell and fine mouldings, that meant the tower took a long time to construct.

7. Toledo Sephardic Museum

The Toledo Sephardic Museum (Museo Sefardi) is a national museum dedicated to the history, culture and legacy of the city’s Jewish population.

From Roman times to the 15th century Jewish expulsion, the Toledo Sephardic Museum covers the long Jewish history in Spain. The building in which the Toledo Sephardic Museum is located was itself a part of this heritage, built as a synagogue in the 14th century.

Arguably, Peter of Castile allowed the building of the synagogue to show his appreciation for Samuel ha-Levi’s service as a royal councillor and treasurer. He may also have allowed the synagogue as a type of compensation for the destruction on the Jewish community in 1348 during the anti-Jewish pogroms during the  Black Death .

Either way, Samuel ha-Levi eventually lost the king’s favour and was executed in 1360.

8. Monsterrat Monastery

Officially titled Santa Maria de Montserrat, Montserrat Monastery is an important medieval abbey and one of the most important religious sites in Catalonia. Sitting high among the mountains of the Catalan countryside, the monastery offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding area as well as eye-catching architecture and history.

In 1811, the monastery was burnt down and sacked by Napoleon’s troops. The monastery would see violence again during the  Spanish Civil War , with many of the priests and religious men and women living there killed. Under Franco, Montserrat Monastery was seen as a sanctuary for scholars, politicians and artists while Franco’s men stood waiting for those outlawed down the road.

9. Badajoz Fortress

Badajoz Fortress is a 12th century fortification captured by the British during the Peninsula War.

The fortress as it now appears was built by the Almohads in the 12th century, though it probably existed from the 9th century, when Badajoz was founded.

During the Peninsular War , the British made 3 attempts to breach Badajoz Fortress to capture it from the French.

The third attempt, known as the Battle of Badajoz, took place between 16 March and 6 April 1812 and saw an Anglo-Portguese force led by Arthur Wellesley, the (future) Duke of Wellington , besiege and eventually breach the thick curtain walls of Badajoz Fortress.

10. La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Família is an iconic yet incomplete church in Barcelona with UNESCO status, and is the final resting place of its designer, Antoni Gaudi .

Works on La Sagrada Familia were begun in 1882 under the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, then continued under Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s most famous son. Gaudi spent over 43 years working on La Sagrada Familia – he saw it as his holy mission, pouring his own money into the project when funds from the original commission disappeared.

Nevertheless, despite its incomplete state La Sagrada Familia’s incredible architecture draws in hordes of tourists each year. From its beautiful facades to its looming towers and inherent symbolism, La Sagrada Familia is an iconic part of Barcelona.

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

With its sunny climate, thousands of years of history, and colourful culture, Spain is a dream travel destination for many. However, with its vast landscapes, world-famous coastline, and wide stretches of mountain range, it’s hard to know where to start! Here, Jeremy Head, author of Frommer’s Guide to Seville, Granada, and the Best of Andalusia, chooses his favourite spots in the country…

1. Pueblos Blancos, Andalucia

I love this place! White-washed villages dot the rugged hillsides in central Andalucia, and they seem almost to defy gravity in places. Formerly farming villages, many fell into disrepair as the younger generation headed to the cities searching for work.

Now, locals and overseas visitors alike have rediscovered their charm. The narrow streets, whitewashed houses, pretty old churches, and flower-strewn squares have been restored; to me, they look picture-perfect! I think they’re seriously Insta-worthy, but I would suggest taking the time to soak up the charming vibe as well.

My favourite villages include Grazalema, Vejer de la Frontera, and Arcos de la Frontera, so ensure you include these on your itinerary.

• Location: Cádiz and Málaga in Southern Spain.
• Best time to visit: spring to avoid the crowds and see the wildflowers.

 My favourite highlights…

• Exploring the pretty narrow cobbled streets fully soaking up the charm of these wonderful villages.
• Discovering the Gothic Church (Iglesia de la Santa María de la Coronada), which has a very impressive Plateresque retablo.
• Photographing the Arcos de la Frontera known as the stunning gateway to the Pueblos Blancos.

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2. Granada, Andalusia

Nestled at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is one of my favourite cities in the country. It is a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region. It has truly stunning examples of Moorish medieval architecture! 

The finest example is the stunningly ornate Moorish Palace, the Alhambra, which is world-famous! It’s a sprawling complex of palaces surrounded by ornate gardens, perched atop a hill with the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains behind. The location is also spectacular!

I love the interior, which is seriously beautiful, and I also love its zen-like vibe. It has romantic, intricate Moorish-style decorations around peaceful courtyards, contrasting with the powerfully simplistic lines of later, vast Baroque additions.

• Location: Andalusia Region, South of Spain
• Best time to visit: May and autumn months as temperatures are cooler

My favourite highlights…

• Exploring the Alhambra, the beautiful Moorish palace – the ornate decor took my breath away!
• Spending a few hours wandering the historic streets of Albayzin, the gorgeous old Moorish quarter of Granada.
• Going to the wonderful Sacromonte. Known as the gypsy quarter, I watched an incredible flamenco performance in one of the caves here.
• Going for fun rooftop drinks and watching the sunset over the city at BHeaven ’s rooftop bar.

3. Seville, Andalusia

I’m a huge fan of Seville, the majestic capital of the Andalusia region. It’s stuffed with beautiful sights, fantastic flamenco dancing, excellent bars, shops, and restaurants, and it is wonderfully atmospheric! 

I highly recommend visiting the spectacular Plaza de Espana. Designed by local architect Anibal Gonzalez for the great 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition, which was held in the city and virtually bankrupted it, it’s a feast of ornate, colourful towers and colonnades decorated with tiles and motifs.

At its centre, there’s a huge fountain and canal on which I would suggest hiring a pedalo and exploring! It’s such a striking place that it often features in movies – most notably Star Wars Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones! 

• Location: Andalusia region, southern Spain.
• Best time to visit: May and Autumn when temperatures are cooler.

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the incredible Real Alcazar de Sevilla a unique mix of Spanish Christian and Moorish architecture.
• Exploring the stunning Plaza de Espana a semi-circular brick building in Renaissance/neo-Moorish style which has been the location for many famous films and TV series.
• Wandering the narrow historic streets of the charming Barrio Santa Cruz, which used to be the Jewish quarter.
• Dining at Tapas at El Pasaje Santa María la Blanca located in the pretty Centro Historico de Sevilla.

4. Marbella, Costa del Sol

I love that this famous, fun and sometimes unashamedly brash but in a glitzier way than some of the other famous Spanish tourist resorts!

Visitors flock here for the fine weather, the pretty historic old town, its gorgeous beaches, its many nightclubs and bars, The Golden Mile lined with buzzing, upscale establishments, and to watch the gleaming yachts gently bobbing in the harbour.

I would highly recommend heading to Puerto Banús, the flashiest marina in the region and wandering the old town’s pretty narrow lanes lined with flower boxes.

This is a place of quite extreme contrasts, and in my opinion, it makes the place even more fascinating. Don’t forget to bring the bling, and you’ll fit right in!  

• Location: Andalusia, Southern Spain
• Best time to visit: June to September
• People, and yacht, watching along the Golden Mile.
• Exploring the Old Town which is actually very pretty!
• Going for rooftop cocktails and watching the sunset by Air by Breathe .

5. Ronda, Malaga Province

At the heart of the Serrania de Ronda sits Ronda, a beautiful location surrounded by lively river valleys and home to a population of around 35,000.

The city is the third most visited in Andalucia, and its proximity to Malaga makes it easy to reach. It is a quiet and very photogenic gem!

Ronda’s most famous landmarks are the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge (which took 42 years to build!) and the deep gorge it spans. The bridge connects the old Moorish town and the newer El Mercadillo parts of the city, and Instagrammers love this jaw-dropping spot! 

• Location: Malaga Province, Southern Spain
• Best time to visit: July and August

My highlights…

• Photographing the New Bridge (The Puente Nuevo), which offers extraordinary views of the El Tajo gorge.
• Exploring the wonderful Mondragon Palace which is home to a museum and some truly beautiful gardens.
• People watching in Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, Ronda’s most picturesque square.
• Visiting the Cuenca Gardens which are known for their series of terraces. The views were beautiful!
• Spending an afternoon wine tasting at Descalzos Viejos winery .

6. Malaga, Malaga Province

With its many concrete high rises that seem to swamp the place, the Costa del Sol isn’t always considered traditionally beautiful. Still, in my opinion, its capital, Malaga, is the exception! 

Take a break here, and you’ll be treated to a wonderful place with fine weather, a youthful vibe, excellent (and numerous) museums, art galleries, historic monuments, and  beautiful boutique hotels waiting to welcome you.  

I recommend seeking the Michelin-starred restaurants and sampling Malaga’s excellent culinary scene. I would also suggest exploring the Pompidou Centre, the charming Paseo del Parque, the 11th-century Alcazaba fort, and the Roman amphitheatre, following in the footsteps of Pablo Picasso (this was his birthplace), and then seeking  out some of the amazing sandy beaches! 

• Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
• Dining at the fabulous and very trendy Doña Inés restaurant , which offers creative Mediterranean dishes.
• Discovering the pretty Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion gardens. 
• Drinking cocktails with views at Rooftop AC Hotel Malaga Palacio.

7. The Balearic Islands

The four largest Balearic Islands in the East of Spain, Ibiza, Mallorca , and Menorca, draw tourists worldwide. Ibiza is perhaps the most popular tourist location of these four islands, particularly for young adults looking for a new kind of nightlife to discover.

Although these islands are typically overrun with summer tourists, in my opinion, there are still many unspoilt places to visit, and they hold a fair bit of history, dating as far back as the story of shipwrecked Greek Boeotians! 

• Location: off the coast of eastern Spain
• Best time to visit: Summer
• Visiting the cosmopolitan capital Majorca, Palma, and exploring the boutique shops and hotels, great restaurants, cafes, and swish marinas.
• Exploring the pretty village Deia in Majorca has long been a haven for the early 20th-century literary and art set.
• Visiting Cala Salada in Ibiza, a small cove with a lovely beach, crystal clear waters, and a refreshing lack of tourists!
• Visiting the often underrated island of Menorca, which is more low-key than its neighbours and home to endless beaches, from beautiful miles-long sandy crescents to small turquoise-watered bays.

8. San Sebastian, Basque Country

I love this sophisticated city with golden sands and pure blue oceans! Its elegant allure always draws me in, and it is home to a stunning dining scene, amazing architecture, and luscious beaches that frame the city.

This location is undeniably one of the world’s premier food destinations. I recommend trying pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, and heading to its stunning beach! There are also many fantastic boutiques, restaurants, and bars here, so you’ll be kept busy whether you stay for a day or a week! 

• Location: Basque Country, northeast Spain
• Best time to visit: May to September
• Spending a lazy afternoon on La Concha Beach, a crescent-shaped beach in this city that spans over 1.3 km and features stunning golden sand and clear blue water.
• Exploring the Old Town, and losing myself amongst the elegant narrow streets. There are many fantastic bars and restaurants to explore in this area.
• Relaxing on Zurriola Beach, which is a smaller and less crowded alternative to La Concha Beach.

9. Costa Brava, Catalonia

You can spend your holiday exploring 200km of absolutely stunning coastline in Costa Brava! It has a rugged coastline, and I would highly recommend exploring the pretty cosmopolitan resorts, emerald green coves, brilliant beaches, and numerous protected reserves and parks, such as Cap de Creus Natural Park and Albera Range Natural Park.

My other favourite areas include the protected wetland and marine reserves, the important archaeological site Ruins de Empuries and the three charming medieval villages of Pals, Peratallada, and Ullastret.

• Location: East coast of Spain
• Best time to visit: summer

My must-do highlights…

• Spending an afternoon on Fenals Beach, a stunning spot with crystal clear waters and water sports.
• Spotting wildlife and birds in their natural surroundings in the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Emporda.
• Visiting the Old Town of Tossa de Mar which was declared a national artistic monument in 1931.
• Visiting the summer house of the famous artist Salvador Dali which was built in the 1930s.

10. Formentera, Balearic islands

Spain has over 5,000 miles of coastline and bright sunny days for much of the year, so it’s unsurprising that it’s a beach Mecca. From jam-packed tourist beaches to deserted stretches of virgin sand, there’s a beach for just about everyone! 

In my opinion, some of the most unspoilt and ultra-white are found on the shores of the Balearic island of Formentera. The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is only a couple of hours by boat from the mainland.

I especially love the Ses Illetes, a long curve of white sand backed by soft dunes with shallow ultramarine seawater lapping its fringes.

• Location: Off East Coast Spain
• Visiting the stunning Playa de Ses Illetes, which is always mentioned among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
• Sunbathing on Cala Saona, which is another lovely but smaller beach in Formentera.
• Chartering a private yacht which was a very swish way to explore this extraordinary place!

11. Barcelona, Catalonia

I fall in love with the proud capital of the Catalonia region every time I visit! It has heaps to offer its many besotted visitors, including great nightlife, shopping, and beaches.

But it’s incredible buildings created by legendary architect Gaudi that are arguably the show’s biggest stars. I would recommend visiting (the still unfinished) La Sagrada Familia, which has its spindly towers, oddly shaped buttresses, and unique roof.

I think his residential buildings, like the Casa Mila, are also wonderful, as are his more playful statues and benches in the popular Park Guell. The views here are also outstanding! 

• Location: Catalonia region, East Spain
• Best time to visit: Spring and summer
• Visiting Park Güell, a beautifully surreal and artistic public park with wonderful city views.
• Getting lost in the Gothic Quarter, which has narrow medieval streets filled with trendy bars, clubs, and charming Catalan restaurants.
• Going for cocktails with amazing sunset views at the Azimuth Rooftop Bar .
• Hanging out at their main city beach, a local activity hub.

12. Valencia, Valencia Region

This is a wonderful port city on the southeastern coast. It is livable, with balmy temperatures and thriving cultural, eating, and nightlife scenes! It’s also known for its awe-inspiring City of Arts and Sciences.

This country has its share of outstanding historical architecture, but I admire how it has firmly looked towards the future for many of its building projects in recent years.

I love the impressive City of Arts and Sciences , designed by the forward-thinking Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Built in stark white, its odd angles and unusual shapes look particularly spectacular when floodlit at night.

• Location: East Coast of Spain
• Best time to visit: May to August
• People watching in Plaza de la Reina, the city’s best square
• Bargain hunting and trying local food at Valencia’s Central Market.
• Soaking up rays on my favourite beach, La Malvarrosa.
• Eating at the award-winning Karak restaurant and dining on creative, locally inspired dishes.

13. Mount Teide, Tenerife

A couple hours south by plane from the Spanish mainland, the Canary Islands are far closer to African shores than European ones. I personally love this place because its natural landscapes are so different! 

Much of the land is volcanic, and I’m always in awe of its steep slopes and dark grey sands on the beaches. At the centre of Tenerife, the most popular of the Canary Islands, my favourite attraction is the mighty Mount Teide, a vast snow-capped volcano! 

It’s a great hiking territory, and the scenery is almost moon-like at this altitude. I suggest taking a cable car to the summit and gazing at the surreal views.

• Location: Tenerife, the Canary Islands.
• Best time to visit: March to September.
• Going on a fun Quad Biking Tour. 
• Star gazing at night!

14. Picos de Europa

This country’s natural scenery—from the sandy coastline to the vast plains—is constantly surprising. Still, the lofty peaks of the Picos de Europa mountain ranges are, in my opinion, the most spectacular! 

I can’t get enough of the craggy mountain peaks, verdant valleys, and raging rivers. This area of northern Spain is perfect hiking and adventure territory, and I would suggest whitewater rafting and snowshoeing if you’re more of an active type!

There are heaps of wildlife here, including the endangered Cantabrian Brown Bear and wolves.

• Location: Cabrales, Asturias, Spain
• Hiking the Cares Trail, which took me through spectacular scenery.
• Going for a ride on the Fuente Dé cable car and seeing the incredible views.
• Canoeing down the Sella River. 

15. Zaragoza, Aragon region

I think Zaragoza, the capital of the northeastern Aragon region, is the perfect city for any history lover or architecture buff. I love that the city is full of museums, religious sites, and stunning street art that covers flat pathways everywhere! 

I would suggest visiting the most iconic building, the Basilica del Pilar, which holds paintings created by Francisco José de Goya, a famous painter from the Aragon region.

Not only can you see this beautiful building from the outside and inside, but I recommend travelling up to the top of the bell towers to see everything from 60 metres up. The views are breathtaking! 

• Location: Aragon region, northeastern Spain.
• Best time to visit: May to October
• Visiting Palacio de la Aljaferia an extraordinary fortified medieval palace built in the 11th century.
• Wandering around the vibey El Tubo in the Old Town, which is a maze of small alleys and streets packed with bars and restaurants.
• Taking the elevator up the Torre Del Pilar for 360-degree views of the city and the Ebro River (my photo above).

16. Playa del Silencio, Asturias

There are many very beautiful beaches in the country. Still, I personally think the picturesque beauty of Playa del Silencio in Asturias (a region in northwest Spain) is well worth a visit!

I love the way the clear waters reflect the sky at all times of day, and the smooth curve of the cliffside makes for some perfect photos. The beach is stoney but it’s the surrounding scenery that really makes it special.

In English, “Playa del Silencio” translates as “Beach of Silence,” which I think is an apt name for this peaceful place. You can reach Playa del Silencio from the village of Castañares.

It’s a long walk if you choose to walk rather than go by car, but I think it’s worth it! The coastline of Cudillero is unique, with high cliffs and stunning islets that are seriously spectacular.

• Location: Northern Spain coast 
• Just sitting on and relaxing on the secluded beach and taking in the zen-like vibe.
• Photographing the beach from the cliff-top path, it’s very photogenic!

17. Tarragona, Catalonia

Tarragona is approximately an hour away from Barcelona by car or train and only a few minutes away from Reus Airport. This architectural city was once the capital of the Roman Empire in Spain, and I highly recommend a visit.

I love that it’s a relaxed place brimming with history and culture, crowned by Mediterranean blue skies and beautiful beaches.

The amphitheatre of Tarragona is right by the sea, and there’s something very unique and special about the location. As you walk around the amphitheatre, parts of Tarraco, one of Catalonia’s Nine Wonders of UNESCO Sites and Heritage, will be directly behind you! 

• Location: Catalonia region, northeastern Spain
• Taking a photo from the gorgeous Mediterranean Balcony (my photo above).
• Hanging out at the popular Playa de Arrabassada.
• Checking out all the Roman ruins.
• Going shopping at the many wonderful boutiques.

18. The Pyrénées, the border of France and Spain

The Pyrénées mountain range sits in the southwest of Europe and forms one of the most natural borders between Spain and France. I’m a huge fan of this naturally stunning area! 

The mountains here reach a height of over 11,000ft. The range separates the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of continental Europe and extends from the Bay of Biscay to the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the main crest of the mountains forms the divide between Spain and France.

I highly recommend visiting the several national parks and nature reserves here, including the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park , in Ordesa Valley. The light at dusk and dawn here is just incredible! 

• Location: Iberian Peninsula between France and Spain
• Hiking the Cirque de Gavarnie trail.
• Taking a cable car ride over the Pont d’Espagne.
• Relaxing in Bagnères-de-Bigorre’s thermal baths. 
• Star gazing at the observatory on Pic du Midi mountain.

19. Santiago de Compostela, Galicia region

Spain’s many vast Gothic cathedrals testify to the country’s long-held Christian traditions. The most spellbinding is at Santiago de Compostela, the magnificent capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region, famous for being the final stop of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

I recommend wandering around its historic alleys and architecture; the cathedral is a must-see attraction! It’s a vast building smothered in Baroque swirls, statues and stalagmites. The most remarkable vista is the Western facade, which forms the main entrance and is accessed by a magnificent quadruple flight of stairs.

The cathedral is also the final destination of the thousands of pilgrims who walk the Way of St James trail each year. 

• Location: Galicia region, northwest Spain
• Visiting the world-famous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
• Exploring the San Martin Pinario Monastery, the 10th-century baroque Benedictine monastery. 
• Taking photos around the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

20. Cíes Islands

For a gorgeous unspoilt shoreline, I would say no further than the vastly underrated Cíes Islands, a beautiful archipelago off the coast of Pontevedra in Galicia. These islands are made up of three isles in total: San Martiño (Saint Martin), Do Faro (Lighthouse), and Monteagudo (Sharp Mount).

The landscapes of each island are utterly incredible and, in my opinion, well worth the few days of exploration required to see everything on each one. There’s a lot to see, from caves to vast forests to rugged cliffs.

I suggest renting a private apartment while you are on the islands to get a full feel for them and spend as much time relaxing on their shores as possible. Enjoy! 

• Location: off the coast of Pontevedra in Galicia, west coast

My favourite highlights… 

• Lazing around on the stunning white sands. 
• Bird spotting from gulls to gannets.

I would urge visitors to be compassionate and not fund or become involved in the very cruel practices of bullfights , running of the bulls , donkey rides  or any festivals involving animals . Please embrace the new progressive Spain instead! 

46 thoughts on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain”

Oh, the first place you listed that is Pueblos Blancos reminds me of Greece even though I’ve never been there. By the way, about Greece, I was in Cheshme in Turkey 2 years ago and this city is also look alike Greece because this nation was living there for some period of time and left their architecture. Sorry for changing the topic just wanted to share!

Which is the best Place to Visit in Seville. Please answer me because I am planning to visit this place after some time.

After Barcelona, Seville is so interesting!

more please

Would love to visit Valencia and Seville. Have travelled to San Sebastian and surrounding areas of the Basque country which are so beautiful. Montserrat is another lovely place outside Barcelona.

All lovely places! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

Valencia is well worth a visit. Full of History with aLovely Cathedral and if you do go try a Horchata which is a Speriality of Valencia and it tastes delicious I can vouch for it as I love it there is a cafe near to the Cathedral which is well known for it’s Horchata and inside in fantastic to see lots of coloured tiles on the walls and floor and nicely air conditioned. The name of the cafe escapes me but it is well known it is on the Corner of the square near to the Cathedral MY brother and his wife took me there on a visit to Valencia especially to try the Horchata which they prepare If I may so so in Spanish Delicioso ‘o’ Que Rico. There is also the indoor market which is a must to visit and Lalon Ja the silk Market of old the inside is worth seeing because of the Spiral Pillars and a lovely small garden which one walks through the Silk market / room too. and also one or two museums which are also With a visit. I would definitely recommend . Valencia is one of my favourite Spanish Cities. Sevilla I am not to sure of, but I have read books on the mentioned; But it can get very HOT there especially in the summer and earlier so check on the weather before you go. From June through to August ( end of) particularly

I’ve done quite a bit of travelling for weekends away throughout Spain, however there is so much history and culture that you’ll always have something else on the list that you would like to visit and see. I haven’t been to Segovia yet so I’ll definitely be checking it out as you have posted above, looks amazing 😀

Love traveling to Spain. I was in Valencia back when I was kid in the 70’s! Would love to return to see the changes. 🙂 Also enjoyed Barcelona on one of our recent Mediterranean Cruises.

Hi, I already read so many amazing articles of yours! This one is also interesting and really beautiful to visit. Thanks for all good resources.

Ashley and I love Spain. We fell in love Barcelona and the Catalan Culture. It looks like there is so much more I need to experience though.

Spain is always a good idea 🙂

Seville is probably first on my list if I ever return to Spain, have so far only had the opportunity to see Barcelona, Valencia and Zaragoza. 🙂

Nice pictures! My favourite city is Barcelona. 🙂

Enchanting the best plaza de espana the whole of spain, i really won’t do enough justice with my review of Seville’s Plaza de España you’ve got to see it yourself and do your oooh’s and aaahs. i never get tired of going to this place. luckily i lived in Seville a whole year plus the parque maria luisa is so close for a picnic and its in a great part of town

Great post. Will make sure to visit some of these places when my wife and I take a road trip across Spain this upcoming summer.

Regards, George M.

Don’t forget Menorca, Cáceres, Altea, and Salamanca.

Congrats and thank you for the post. I would like to add some “do nots” 😉 for Segovia City and Province: – Do not forget to watch the Alcazar and the Cathedral from La Cuesta de los Hoyos St. – Do not forget to visit the palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Ah! The fountains work only twice a year. – Do not forget to experience the dawn at Ermita de San Frutos surrounded by Duraton River (60km from Segovia) – Do not forget to visit the village of Pedraza (crowded by weekends) – Due to this is the heart of Castile, do not forget to visit the main castles in Coca, Turegano or Cuellar… – Several Do’s: Segovia is 66km from Avila (surrounded by outstanding medieval walls), 53km from San Lorenzo de El Escorial Monastery, 50km from El Valle de los Caidos National Monument.

We were in Spain for 4 weeks and loved it. Barcelona is my hubbies favorite city in the world.

San Sebastian missing, one of the really great places in Spain, in my opinion 🙂

This is very interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and

look forward to seeking more of your wonderful post. Also, I’ve shared

your web site in my social networks!

i want 2 look these beautiful places how i can i dont know……………..

Hi. Of course there are 100 places in Spain with similar beauty than the 10 placed. I´d add for example Baeza, The Alpujarra villages, or Sos del Rey Catolico …

Good day! This is kind of off topic but I need some guidance from an established blog.

Is it tough to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast. I’m thinking about making my own but I’m not sure where to start. Do you have any ideas or suggestions? Thanks

Hi Yvonne, I’ve just sent you an email.

Fine article. This’s my way of travel

Thanks for this, I enjoyed the piece, especially the facts on the Canary Isles, Plaza de Espana and Segovia.

Spain has always fascinated me and I’ll be off to live in Seville for a year soon.

Nice pics on Pueblos Blancos, Picos de Europa and the Plaza de Espana.

Honestly i never could have imagined that Spain have so many beautiful places. Congrats the pictures and the content are of high quality.

I love the photos! Spain is the best place, specially in Barcelona. Thanks for sharing this.

Congratulations, Nice Article. We like it 🙂

Hey There. I found your weblog the use of msn. That is a very neatly written article. I will make sure to bookmark it and come back to learn more of your helpful info. Thank you for the post. I’ll certainly comeback.

Dear Sir/Madam i have searched these places on net that very very beautiful.I want to see these places.How i can see them?

From several days ago I’ve been thinking to visit in Spain and just in time I’ve got this post. Thanks mate. 🙂

hospital emergency room

Spain is so colourful, amazing.

There are some truly stunning places in spain!

This is a great article, love the pictures too. Spain is such a great country with so much to offer. Can’t wait to get back there!

Definitely need to get our jandals down to Spain. Hopefully early next summer we will finally!

Spain is one of the few countries I’ve never heard anybody complain or talk negative about. I must go there! This kind of post inspires me.

The Sierra Nevada mountains in Granada?

Yep. Granada Province…

Love these photos theyre beautiful!

Beautiful places! I can’t wait to visit them. By the way, it’s called Plaza de España, not Espana, the ñ is an Spanish character which sounds different than the n (it would be similar to GN in gnome)

The Gaudi’s Masterpieces in Barcelona is breathtaking! Nice photos and very informative article. I will come back for more.

These photos are amazing! The one of Barcelona looks like gingerbread houses.

Thanks 🙂 Got to love the amazing mind of Gaudi!

I love your photos and article on the 10 most beautiful spots in spain.

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The Top 15 Historical Sites in Spain that You Need to See

Spain is without a doubt one of the most fascinating countries to visit not only in the Iberian Peninsula (which consists of Spain , Portugal , Gibraltar, and parts of France), but the whole of Europe too. 

It is a country that is rich in history and has many amazingly impressive historical landmarks worth visiting, from the regal splendor of the Alhambra Palace in Granada to the awe-inspiring magnificence of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. 

Indeed, knowing which place to visit in Spain is a tough choice, as there are beautiful cities and architecture all throughout the country, from  the north to the south . 

In this blog post we’ll examine the 15 top historical places in Spain in detail. I have both lived in Spain and visited this wonderful country, and will share some insights that will help you as you plan your trip. 

Brief History of Spain

Spain has a complex and rich history, so for the sake of convenience we’ll break it down into 5 periods:

The Palaeolithic Era

Human habitation in what is today known as Spain dates all the way back to the Palaeolithic Era. During this period, the area was home to various indigenous tribes such as the Iberians, Celtiberians, and Tartessians. These cultures flourished for centuries and laid the foundation for Spain’s diverse cultural heritage. 

Roman Conquest

During Roman times, 218 BC to be exact, Spain fell under control of the Roman Empire, and this lasted until the 5th century AD. Roman Hispania as it was known back then, established cities, roads, and aqueducts, leaving a lasting impact on Spain’s culture and infrastructure.

The Moors and Islamic Spain 

One of the most transformative periods in Spain’s history was the Moorish conquest in 711 AD. The Moors, mostly North African Muslims, established a multicultural society that lasted until 1492. This period left a profound influence on the culture, architecture, and language of the region. 

Colonial Spain

 Also in 1492, Christopher Columbus set sail on his historic voyage to Latin America, opening up a new era of exploration and colonization. Unfortunately, this was a period of near apocalyptic level devastation to the Americas, but quite lucrative to Spain. The country soon became a major global power, amassing vast wealth from its American colonies. 

By the 19th century, Spain experienced social and political upheaval, including events such as the Peninsular War. It is during this period the Spain lost many of its colonies, such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam during the Spanish-American War in 1898. These losses marked the end of the Spanish Empire. 

After the turn of the century, the Nationalists, a fascists rebel group led by General Francisco Franco rose to power, following the Spanish Civil War in the 1930’s. Franco ruled as a fascist dictator until 1975, which ended a period of political repression in the country. 

Spain moved to become a democracy after his death, establishing a constitution that allowed for autonomy of the various regions in the country. Spain’s economy rapidly modernized after this, and the country joined the European Union in 1986. 

Today, Spain is known as a vibrant, culturally rich country with a robust and diverse industry. It has a thriving tourism sector, fueled by its historical heritage, gastronomy, and picturesque landscapes. 

The Top Historical Sites in Spain

1 | La Sagrada Familia

Location 📍 | Barcelona, Spain | C/de Mallorca, 401, 08013

One of the most iconic historical places in all of Spain is La Sagrada Familia, which is the number one tourist attraction in the whole country. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been under construction for 140 years and is expected to be finally finished in the next ten years or so. It has a totally unique Spanish Gothic style and was created by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi.

There is simply no other Catholic Church or other religious temple that is similar to this building and it features 18 towering pillars and multiple sculptures of biblical figures. I have visited this site a few times, and what has really captivated me is the beautiful colors that you find inside the cathedral ceilings and walls. 

Pro Tip : With this being such a popular tourist site, it is worth buying your tickets in advance online rather than turning up in hope on the day. Expect to spend a good couple of hours at least when visiting this amazing architectural feat.  Click here to purchase you skip-the-line tickets now!  

2 | Seville Cathedral

Location 📍 | Sevilla, Spain | Av. de la Constitución, s/n, 41004

Southern Spain, otherwise known as Andalucía, features one of the country’s best historical sites in the region’s capital city; the Seville Cathedral. Situated in the city centre, it sevwas completed in the early 16th century and is known as the largest Gothic church in the world, and is unmissable when in Seville.

The interior of this Roman Catholic Cathedral is breathtaking and features beautiful artwork, countless chapels, sculptures and religious artifacts. 

Pro Tip : As it is one of the Sevilla’s most popular tourist attractions, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance to avoid the long queues. 

3 | Royal Palace of Madrid

Location 📍 | Madrid, Spain | C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071

Of course, one of  the best cities to visit in Spain  is its capital in the centre of the country; Madrid. This is a lively, beautiful, energetic city which is full of fascinating historical landmarks. 

The number one historical landmark in the Spanish capital is the Royal Palace, which was built in the 18th century to replace a former Moorish Castle. It was home for the Spanish royal family but today it is only used for state ceremonies. 

This is the largest royal palace in all of Europe and has over 3,000 rooms worth exploring. You can expect to spend several few hours here when visiting – I certainly did!  It’s a magnificent structure, full of impressive rooms such as the Throne Room and Royal Armory. The palace reminded me a lot of Versailles, namely due to the the style of the rooms and furniture found inside.

4 | Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Location 📍 | Santiago de Compostela | Praza do Obradoiro, s/n, 15704

The north of Spain is a full of historical cities, no more so than the Galician capital in the north west;  Santiago de Compostela . This is one of the most gorgeous, historical cities in the whole country and is dominated by its towering cathedral. It features Baroque styled architecture and its construction began back in 1075. 

The cathedral is significant as it marks the end point for people who participate on the Camino de Compostela, which is a series of ancient pilgrim paths across Spain and Europe that all lead to this building. 

It’s said that the building is the burial site of St. James, one of Christ’s apostles and therefore attracts many visitors from all around the world each year. You can enter the cathedral for free and mass takes place four times each day and is attended by many tourists. 

There is the traditional swinging of incense that takes place during each mass, which is known as the: ‘Botafumeiro’. This takes up to eight men to begin each swing, sending the incense holder swinging up to 20 feet high inside the Cathedral, which is quite a dramatic sight to see.

5 | La Alhambra 

Location 📍 | Granada, Spain | C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009

La Alhambra, or the Alhambra Palace, is the most best preserved example of Moorish and Islamic architecture in the whole world, making it a must see when in Spain. The palace is located in Granada, a beautiful city in the south of Spain, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains. La Alhambra was originally a fortress and later became a royal residence and court during the 13th century. 

The whole complex takes around 3 to 5 hours to visit as it is full of aesthetically pleasing architecture that has to be seen to be believed. One of the best buildings to see in the whole complex is the Comares Palace, which was the official residence of the King; Sultan Yusuf I. 

On the east site of the complex are the stunningly lush Generalife gardens and is not to be missed as well. This was the former summer palace for the Nasrid rulers of Granada, and contains some of the oldest Moorish gardens in the world. 

Pro Tip : La Alhambra is an extremely popular historical landmark and if you don’t book tickets in advance, you may actually not be able to visit the whole site. (This happened to me my second time there). Book your tickets at least several days in advance to avoid missing out! Click here to book your tickets now. 

6 | Great Mosque of Córdoba

Location 📍 | Córdoba, Spain | C. Cardena Herrero, 1, 14003

Located just a two hour drive north west from Granada is Cordoba, which is another city in Spain full of historical significance. Cordoba was an important Roman city and before that a major Islamic centre. 

The Great Mosque is the main attraction of the historic center of Cordoba, and is one of the greatest examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The building was constructed back in 784 AD as a small Visigothic church. However, the site was divided into Muslim and Christian worship areas after the Islamic conquest of Spain in the 8th century. Later, it was fully converted into a mosque and underwent extensions under the Umayyad Caliphate, making it one of the largest mosques in the world at that time.

The Mosque’s most stunning feature is the expansive prayer hall, noted for its red and white horseshoe arches that create a striking visual effect. The mihrab, a niche indicating the direction of Mecca, is adorned with Byzantine mosaics, showcasing the artistic grandeur of the Caliphate period. In the 13th century, following the Reconquista, the Mosque was converted into a Roman Catholic Cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. 

Pro Tip : The best time to visit the mosque is early morning or after 4PM. Note, you will avoid the crowds in the early morning, but note, if you are interested in a guided tour, you cannot do it until later in the day.

7 | Park Güell

Location 📍 | Barcelona, Spain | 08024

Based on Carmel Hill by the mountain range of Collserola in Barcelona is Park Güell. This place is a huge garden area full of beautiful architecture designed once again by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. 

The park opened in 1926 by entrepreneur Count Eusebi Güell, who was inspired by English city gardens of the time. It is full of unique artistic features that Gaudi is famed for and it’s quite a magical place to stroll around for a couple of hours. 

I make a point to visit this park every time I visit Barcelona. In addition to being a beautiful green space, it also offers fantastic views of the city below too. 

Pro Tip:  Park Güell is always busy, especially during weekends. The best time to visit is early mornings during the week. The park is open from 9.30 until 7.30pm and it’s open every day of the year.

8 | Casa Batlló

Location 📍 | Barcelona, Spain | Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007

Casa Batlló is another unique historical landmark in the city of Barcelona created by, you guessed it; Antoni Gaudi! This building is considered by many as his masterpiece and is one of the most beautiful examples of modernism in the world. 

It attracts a million visitors each year and has been refurbished several times since Gaudi redesigned it from its previous form in 1904. It’s open every day of the year and it is possible to have an audio guide when visiting the building, which helps explain the history of the building. 

If you visit Barcelona in the summer, you can get to experience their “Magic Nights” where they have a series of rooftop concerts. I did this the last time I was in Barcelona and loved it.

9 | Plaza de España

Location 📍 | Sevilla, Spain

Plaza de España in Sevilla is a beautifully charming place to visit in the capital of Andalucía, and a nice oasis away from the crowds of the city. 

It was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and is shaped in a semi-circle. You can access some of its buildings by crossing four separate bridges over its moat and it is possible to hire a row boat for a ride on its lake if you’re in a romantic mood. 

There are many tiled alcoves around the plaza which features artwork of each different region of Spain. The centrepiece of the plaza is the Vicente Traver fountain. 

Visiting the plaza is completely free, though it is best to avoid visiting during the afternoons, especially during the summer months when Seville experiences extremely high temperatures. Alternatively, an early morning visit is a good idea, or at night time when the plaza lights up, making it even more magical. 

10 | Alcazar of Toledo

Location 📍 | Toledo, Spain

Toldeo is a beautiful UNESCO heritage city based around 45 minutes outside of Madrid. It’s famous for it’s’ sword making and has many historical landmarks, the most famous being the Alcazar of Toledo. 

This quadrangle building sits on top of the city’s highest point and dates back to the 3rd century Roman era of the country. Back then it was used as a palace until it was turned into a fortress in the 10th century. 

Today it is used as the city’s army museum and has a huge collection of historical military items on display. It’s open from 10am until 5pm throughout the year and you can expect to spend 1 to 3 hours here when visiting. 

11 | Burgos Cathedral

Location 📍 | Burgos, Spain | Pl. Sta. María, s/n, 09003

Another fascinating city in the north of Spain is Burgos, which is full of fascinating medieval architecture. Burgos is situated along the French route of the Camino de Santiago, and is the provincial capital of Spain’s autonomous community of Castile and Leon. 

This medieval city is full of Cathedrals and churches which have remained intact over the years and remain in great condition. The most impressive building is the Burgos Cathedral, which is based in its’ historical centre and is indeed the centrepiece of the city. 

The Catholic cathedral is famed for its’ gothic style and it took a few hundred years to be fully constructed, from 1221 to 1567. It’s open most days throughout the year and is relatively cheap. Its interior is full of amazing artwork, tombs and beautiful stained glass windows. 

12 | Cadiz Cathedral

Location 📍 | Cadiz, Spain | Pl. Catedral, s/n 11005

Cadiz is a delightful ancient port city in the southwest of Andalucía and is definitely worth visiting if you’re in the area. The city’s most iconic building is its’ Roman Catholic Cathedral, located in the central square. 

It’s an impressive sight made in the Baroque style and is actually quite modern compared to most of the other historical landmarks in this post, having been built from 1722 to 1838. 

It’s cheap to enter and inside you can see the tomb of Manuel de Falla, the most distinguished Spanish composer of the 20th century. It features a tower which offers panoramic views of Cadiz’ coastline and the Mediterranean sea. 

13 | Jerez Cathedral

Location 📍 | Jerez de la Frontera, Spain | Pl. Encarnación, s/n, 11403

Not too far away from Cadiz is another ancient city; Jerez de la Frontera. This charming place is famed for its’ sherry bodegas, flamenco dancing, horse riding and of course, historical landmarks. 

The most impressive historical building in Jerez is its’ Cathedral, which is the seat of Roman Catholic Diocese of Asidonia-Jerez. The architecture of the Cathedral consists of Baroque, Gothic and Neoclassical styles and is quite an imposing sight worth seeing.  

14 | Tower of Hercules

Location 📍 | La Coruna, Spain | Av. Navarra, s/n 15002

La Coruna is a beautiful port city in Galicia in the very northwest of Spain, surrounded by beaches and a busy port. La Coruna’s main attraction is its Tower of Hercules, which is the oldest lighthouse in the world and dates back to the Roman era in the 1st century. 

It’s located just over two kilometres from the city centre, and it is possible to climb to the very top, where there are stunning panoramic views of northern Spain’s coastline and the Atlantic ocean.

The surrounding area of the tower is an amazing place too. There is a statue of Breogán, a Celtic King, and also nearby is the Menhires Pola Paz. These are monuments consisting of ten upright granite sculptures in a circle. They are quite reminiscent of Stonehenge in the UK, albeit on a smaller scale. 

15 | Alcazaba

Location 📍 | Malaga, Spain | C / Alcazabilla, 2, 29012

The Alcazaba of Malaga , nestled on the foothills of Mount Gibralfaro, is a palatial fortress that reflects the splendor of Moorish rule in Andalusia. Constructed in the 11th century under the reign of the Hammudid dynasty, it served as a stronghold for Arab monarchs, showcasing the architectural prowess of the era. The fortress, featuring a double-walled defense system and numerous towers, is an exquisite blend of Roman masonry techniques and Islamic artistic sensibilities.

Today, the Alcazaba remains as one of the most visited tourist destinations in Malaga. It opens its doors to the public every day, inviting history enthusiasts and architecture lovers to delve into an immersive journey into Spain’s Islamic past. 

The fortress also offers a magnificent view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from its walls, a sight that no visitor should miss.

Audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing invaluable insights into the history and architecture of the fortress.

Pro Tip : The best time to visit the Alcazaba is early morning or evening as it is quite a climb to reach the top. Expect to walk for about 20 minutes or so uphill. 

FAQs | Historical Sites in Spain

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is easily the most visited historical site in Spain, with an estimated 5 million tourists visiting the site each year. An estimated 20 million visit the surrounding area as well. 

The oldest town in Spain is considered to be Cadiz. Located in the region of Andalusia, Cadiz was established by the Phoenicians around 1100 BC. Its rich history, spanning over 3,000 years, imparts an unparalleled charm to the city, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Mérida, a city located north of Seville and close to the Portugal border, features the most Roman ruins in the whole of Spain. This includes an impressive amphitheatre, bridges, aqueducts and more. 

In Summary | The Top Historical Landmarks in Spain

That concludes this post on the top historical landmarks in Spain. There are so many fascinating historical cities all throughout the country, which explains why it has been such a popular tourist destination for so long. 

There are several top destinations worth visiting as well, from the popular Barcelona with many a Gaudi masterpiece, to the regal buildings of Madrid and the stunningly beautiful Islamic architecture found in Andalucía. 

If you’re a fan of history or just appreciate beautiful architecture, then Spain must be at the top of your list to visit. It’s a beautiful country full of outstanding history, art and culture. If you are heading to  Spain for the first time  soon, click here to learn what cities you should visit first!

More Spain Travel Guides:

• 4 Days in Barcelona
• 2 Days in Sagunto
• 2 Days in Granada
• 1 Day in Malaga
• Barcelona to Andorra
• Spanish for Travel
• The Best Places to Visit in Spain

Don’t forget to pin this for later!

Christen Thomas is the founder of TravelWanderGrow, established in 2018. She has lived abroad and traveled extensively to over 30 countries. In addition, she is a certified Travel Advisor and is an expert in planning trips focused on city history and culture. As a frequent traveler, she also shares tips on how to prepare to travel well and how to save money while doing so.

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Spain Bucket List: 70+ Beautiful Places to See in Spain’s 17 Regions

There are so many beautiful places in Spain I haven’t seen yet, but after visiting most regions, I’ve decided to share my ultimate Spain bucket list.

It’s no secret that this country has my heart. The views, the culture, the language, the food, and the people always make me feel at home. And if there’s one thing to know about Spain , it’s that it’s full of surprises and hidden gems .

It’s a diverse destination with so much to see, from gorgeous cities and villages to stunning mountains and beaches (that will make you want to take a Spanish road trip ), so here are 70+ must-visit places.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

MY ULTIMATE SPAIN BUCKET LIST (REGION BY REGION )

1. community of madrid.

Obviously, the most famous city in this region is Madrid , and I’m head over heels for it. But there are also beautiful towns and villages here, some of which are easily reachable by public transportation from Madrid, and some require renting a car.

Apart from these small yet charming towns around Madrid like Chinchon and Buitrago de Lozoya, here are a few famous places you should also consider visiting.

Although it’s getting more touristy, visiting Madrid is still one of the best things to do in Spain. It combines modern and traditional so well together that anyone can find something to enjoy about it.

From wandering through the Royal Palace (aka Europe’s largest functioning royal palace) and admiring art at the infamous Prado Museum to strolling through the picturesque Retiro Park and roaming the city’s beautiful neighborhoods, the Spanish capital will win you over.

Whether you only have a couple of days in Madrid or some extra time for less touristy attractions , this city is a must-visit in Spain. To have the best trip, read:

• Madrid travel tips
• Best breakfast and brunch spots in Madrid
• What to pack for Madrid
• Where to stay in Madrid
• Free museums to visit in Madrid
• Best walking tours in Madrid
• Facts about Madrid
• Landmarks in Madrid
• 4 days in Madrid
• Towns and cities to visit near Madrid (in and outside the region)
• Is Madrid worth visiting

The Royal Palace in Madrid is not the only royal residence you need to see in this region.

The 16th-century Royal Palace of Aranjuez, along with the many jaw-dropping gardens surrounding it, is one of the best things to see in Spain and the main reason why Aranjuez was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city also has an old town where you can discover many other historical buildings, and it will only take you 45 minutes to get there by train from Madrid.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Dating back to the 16th century, the impressive complex of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is an important historical royal residence.

Commissioned by King Philip II, it’s the world’s largest Renaissance building, so you can understand why it has to be on this Spain bucket list. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region and a popular half-a-day trip from Madrid .

Alcala de Henares

Have you by any chance heard of a writer called Cervantes? You know, the one who wrote a little book called ‘ Don Quixote .’ Well, how would you like to visit his hometown?

Besides a museum dedicated to him and a beautiful main square named after him, the city even hosts an annual Cervantes festival around his baptism date (October 9th).

This city was also home to a Jewish community, and its university and historic center were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Read here about all the best things to do in Alcala de Henares .

2. Catalonia

Catalonia is one of the main tourist places in Spain thanks to the city of Barcelona and the   beaches of the Costa Brava coastline. However, there is more to this region than just one city and beaches.

There are literally dozens of insanely enchanting  coastal and inland towns and villages that are well worth a road trip like Cadaques, Peratallada, and Besalu.

Here are several must-see places in Spain’s Catalonia region.

I know it has become extremely touristy, but no one can deny that Barcelona is well worth a visit.

It’s home to countless quirky landmarks designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi (including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell), foodies will surely enjoy its culinary scene, its Gothic Quarter is irresistibly enchanting, the museums are world-class, and you’ll love its hidden gems .

You should also take a Montserrat tour from Barcelona to visit one of the most unique mountainous monasteries in Europe.

With Roman, Arab, and Jewish history, exquisite medieval architecture, and ‘Game of Thrones’ filming locations, Girona is a popular day trip you can easily take from Barcelona.

Its highlights include the Cathedral of Girona, the 9th-century Walls of Girona, and the Jewish History Museum.

Often overlooked, the city of Tarragona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site priding itself in its Roman ruins like the Tarragona Amphitheatre and Roman walls.

I LOVE the Spanish Netflix show ‘La Casa de Papel.’ Although the artist Salvador Dali doesn’t need any introduction, I’m pretty sure this series has made him even more popular (if you haven’t seen it and don’t know what I’m talking about, go and watch it now!).

If you want to visit Dali’s birthplace and a unique museum dedicated to him (that was also designed by him), you shouldn’t miss Figueres.

The Pyrenees

Possibly the most famous mountain range in Spain, the Spanish Pyrenees are a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, extreme sports lovers, and skiers (as they are also a popular winter destination in Europe ).

The Pyrenees stretch beyond the region of Catalonia, but many travelers love to visit the region’s Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park which offers mountainous landscapes dotted with lakes and waterfalls, vast green valleys, and more.

There are actually more than 15 parks in Catalonia, so there’s no shortage of stunning natural scenery to explore here.

3. Valencian Community

The Valencian Community is another region that’s famous for its coastline, food, towns, and its capital – Valencia . Here’s what you can’t miss.

Valencia has both modern and traditional sides to it, and although it’s getting more and more popular, it’s still quite underrated.

You might have heard of the Fallas festival , one of the coolest experiences in Spain, but this colorful city offers a variety of things to do and see all year round including some amazing hidden gems (if you’re planning a trip, check out all my tips for visiting Valencia ).

Amongst its must-see are the Valencia Cathedral, the Central Market, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the neighborhood of El Carmen, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

There are also plenty of places you can visit as day trips from Valencia like the Albufera National Park (where the rice dish paella was born) and the town of Sagunto .

Sitting on the lovely Costa Blanca, Alicante is the second-largest city in the region. Besides its port and beach, it’s known for its castle and charming old quarter.

Who doesn’t love strolling through a maze of cobbled streets with white-washed houses? Throw some beaches and a beautiful old church into the mix, and you’ve got yourself one visit-worthy town called Altea .

Guadalest is a small mountain town with a Moorish history. It’s home to quite a few landmarks and museums, but if there’s one thing you can’t miss there, it’s the panoramic view over the turquoise Guadalest Reservoir.

Mostly known for its impressive ancient castle, Xativa is an easy and popular day trip from Valencia.

With a Moorish castle overlooking the city and a diverse cultural influence of Greek, Islamic, Napoleonic, and other cultures, Denia is a coastal city that belongs on the ultimate Spanish bucket list.

4. Andalucia

Andalucia is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain. Located in the southern part of the country, this region is the perfect definition of Mediterranean charm.

With big historical cities packed with UNESCO sites, enchanting villages, stunning beaches, and views of vast olive tree fields, you should definitely consider taking a southern Spain road trip . Here are some of the main places to see in Andalucia :

Celebrating both the modern and the traditional at the same time, Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world (and Picasso’s birthplace!). Don’t miss the Malaga Cathedral, Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, and Roman Theatre, though you’ll find dozens more things to do and see here.

It’s also where you can visit the Caminito del Rey , one of the most famous trails in Spain.

Seville is a vibrant city with a rich Moorish heritage and several UNESCO sites like the Seville Cathedral (the largest Gothic church in the world) and the Royal Alcazar.

You can find many ‘Game of Thrones’ filming locations in the city, as well as colorful neighborhoods, stunning landmarks, amazing flamenco shows, and some of the best tapas bars in southern Spain.

A bit underrated but certainly one of the coolest places in Spain, the visit-worthy Cordoba is a beautiful city that preserves the heritage of three cultures (Jewish, Christian, and Muslim). It was home to a thriving Jewish community, and you can visit many Jewish landmarks in the city.

It’s also the only city in the world with four UNESCO sites, which include its historic center (home to remarkable buildings like the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and Mosque-Cathedral) and the Moorish complex of Medina Azahara.

Although it has its traditional side, the coastal Marbella is mostly known for being a beloved resort city and luxury destination.

If you’re planning a trip to Andalucia, you absolutely cannot skip out on Granada. I was first inspired to visit the city by ‘ The Return ‘ – an incredible novel set in Spain during the Spanish civil war.

It did not disappoint, and I fell in love with Granada. The city itself is filled with historical landmarks and enchanting old streets, but its crowning glory is the iconic Alhambra Palace, one of the most famous royal complexes in the world, which dates back to Moorish times (I recommend visiting it with a guided tour to learn more about it).

White-Washed Villages

With all due respect to Andalucia’s cities, the traditional white-washed villages are a must-visit in the region. Most of them consist of an old cathedral or a ruinous castle surrounded by countless houses painted in white, hence the name ‘ white-washed villages’ ( pueblos blancos ) .

Each and every one of them is extremely enchanting, and amongst the ones you should add to your itinerary are Ronda, Mijas, Zahara de la Sierra, Frigiliana, and many others.

Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park

With a mix of lesser-known villages, dreamy beaches, and vast natural landscapes, this coastal park is filled with magical spots to discover.

Cadiz is an irresistibly charming city sitting on the Atlantic coast. It’s the oldest city in Western Europe (and one of the best cities to visit in Spain), and it’s well-known for its exquisite cuisine.

While in Cadiz, you’ll get to enjoy its beaches, charming old town, and landmarks like the Cadiz Cathedral and Tavira Tower.

5. Castilla Y Leon

Castilla y Leon is the largest region in Spain, spreading over most of the lands that used to belong to the Kingdom of Castilla and the Kingdom of Leon.

Offering both World Heritage Sites (more than 60% of Spain’s heritage sites) and natural landscapes, this surprising region should not be missed. Here are some places to travel in Spain’s Castilla y Leon region:

If you want to visit a must-see World Heritage City, head to Avila, Spain . Known for its well-preserved medieval walls and its Gothic cathedral (built in the 11th-15th centuries), it’s well worth the 1.5-hour train ride from the Spanish capital.

Taking a day trip from Madrid to Segovia is a must. This gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage City is famous for three main landmarks – its Roman aqueduct, its cathedral, and its fairytale-like castle (which inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle), so you’ll easily feel like you’ve been transported to the past.

Overlooking these monuments and the entire city center, you’ll find quite a few scenic viewpoints. About 10 km away from Segovia, you can also visit the 18th-century Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, the Spanish monarchs’ summer residence.

As a World Heritage City, there are many things to do in Salamanca , including visiting its stunning Cathedral (which dates back to the 16th-18th centuries), parts of the university (one of the world’s oldest universities), art and history museums, and the main square, Plaza Mayor. You can easily visit it as a Spanish long-weekend getaway from Madrid.

The famous pilgrims’ route, the Way of St. James or Camino de Santiago (aka one of the best multi-day hikes in Europe), passes through Burgos. The city is only a 2.5-hour bus ride away from Madrid.

It’s home to plenty of museums and monasteries (and even the remains of an old castle), but its main focal point is the incredible Burgos Cathedral. Dating back to the 13th century, it is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As a part of the Camino de Santiago, the city of Leon is like a big open-air history museum.

It’s packed with beautiful streets, squares, museums, and amazing Spanish landmarks like the Cathedral of Leon, Palacio De Los Guzmanes, and Antoni Gaudi’s Casa Botines.

It’s also not as touristy as other cities in the country, which is another big reason why visiting it is one of the best bucket list experiences in Spain.

Picos de Europa

The Picos de Europa National Park offers mesmerizing views of enchanting hamlets, mountains, rivers, and lakes, as well as activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking. The park also spreads to two other regions – Asturias and Cantabria.

Las Medulas

Spain is full of surprising landscapes, and Las Medulas is one of them. It is a Roman gold-mining site with unique rock formations that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Castilla-la Mancha

Does the name Castilla-La Mancha sound familiar to you? Let me give you a hint: I’ve already mentioned a book about Don Quixote (de La Mancha).

Besides being the setting to one of the most famous books taking place in Spain , this region also offers a combination of World Heritage Cities and natural areas. Here are some of the main places to visit in Castilla-La Mancha:

With rich Jewish, Christian, and Arab heritage and countless historical landmarks including Toledo ‘s cathedral, castle/fortress, and synagogue, this UNESCO World Heritage City is a must-take day trip from Madrid.

You can also visit a museum dedicated to El Greco, wander through the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, try some Marzipan of Toledo, and see some beautiful medieval city gates.

You must have come across some photos of Cuenca’s iconic ‘hanging houses’ (which are literally built on the edge of a cliff), but the World Heritage City is home to many other landmarks like the Cuenca Cathedral and the remains of an ancient Arab castle.

From Cuenca, you can also take half a day trip to the park of La Ciudad Encantada, home to unique prehistoric rock formations that will blow you away.

With its famous windmills, Consuegra is THE place to feel like you’ve been transported to Don Quixote’s book . They are situated on a hill overlooking the town, near the Castle of Consuegra, so the scenery is full of charm.

You can also find windmills in several other towns in the region like Campo de Criptana.

Cabañeros National Park

Castilla-La Mancha also prides itself on the natural areas you can visit. In the Cabañeros National Park, you can see more than 1,000 plant species, dozens of endangered animal species, and more than 500-million-year-old fossils.

7. Basque Country

The Basque Country is a Spanish bucket list item that is heaven for lovers of high-quality food, art, architecture, coastal villages, and beaches. It’s also another region where the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) passes.

The weather in this region is a bit cooler than other areas (as well as the rest of northern Spain ), making it an excellent European destination for spring and summer. Here are some places to go to in Spain’s Basque Country:

San Sebastian

A foodie’s heaven, San Sebastian is the capital of Michelin-starred restaurants and pintxo bars (pintxos = a type of tapas consisting of a piece of bread with different toppings). It is also home to a stunning old town, scenic viewpoints, and one of the best beaches in Spain – La Concha.

This is the queen city of architecture and art. One of the main things to do in Bilbao is to visit the infamous Guggenheim Museum, but there are dozens of unique buildings and museums in Bilbao to satisfy any culture lover’s needs, including the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, Bilbao Cathedral, and Arriaga Theater.

Hondarribia

This coastal town is known for its unique and colorful old-town buildings, walls, and castle.

It sits right on the border with France, which means you can overlook the French town of Hendaye and even take a boat ride to visit it.

The Germans bombed this town in the ’30s as an ‘experiment.’ The act inspired Picasso’s creation ‘Guernica’ which is found in Madrid’s Reina Sofia Museum, but in the heart of the town, you’ll find a mural with a replica of the piece. Guernica is now considered ‘a symbol of peace.’

8. Cantabria

If you’re wondering what to do in Spain besides seeing the touristy areas, consider visiting Cantabria. It is one of the most beautiful places to see in northern Spain and a more peaceful area in the country.

Vast green landscapes, prehistoric caves, famous monuments, and charming towns and villages are what you can find in this fantastic region. Here are some great places to visit in Cantabria:

Santillana Del Mar

Many people consider Santillana del Mar as one of the most enchanting medieval towns in Spain, and you can wander around it for hours.

It is also known as ‘The Town of Three Lies’ since it is neither holy (Santa), nor flat (Llana), nor is it by the sea (Mar).

This cute coastal town is rich with beautiful architecture. In Comillas, you’ll find the famous building of ‘El Capricho,’ one of the few creations of Antoni Gaudi outside the region of Catalonia.

If you’re looking for an alternative Spanish city break, Santander might be the destination for you.

Apart from many fantastic beaches, it’s also home to quite a few points of interest such as the impressive Magdalena Palace, Botin Center of art, Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, and Cathedral of Santander. 

Cueva de Altamira

The Cave of Altamira features prehistoric drawings and paintings of human hands and fauna. That’s why it was, of course, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Picos de Europa National Park

As I’ve mentioned, this park spreads over three different regions, and Cantabria is one of them.

9. Asturias

Asturias is a paradise in northern Spain for anyone who loves nature and coastal towns. It’s also home to several historical monuments and archeological sites. Some of the main places to visit in Asturias:

This coastal city often gets overlooked, yet there are plenty of reasons to mark it as your next weekend getaway destination.

It offers a diverse mix of things to do and see like going to the beach, exploring the old town (Cimavilla), wandering through the Atlantico Botanical Garden, visiting the old Roman Baths, learning about local history at the Museum of the People of Asturias, and the list goes on.

Oviedo is the capital of the region. With old churches, palaces, and museums alongside shopping streets, parks, and Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s an intriguing city you don’t want to miss. 

Cangas de Onis

This small town was actually the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias back in the 8th century, and its most famous landmark is the Roman bridge, though the current one is a medieval bridge dating back to the 14th century.

Cudillero has to be one of the most unique fishing villages in Spain. It’s pretty difficult not to fall in love with its small port, colorful houses (that seem to be built one on top of the other), and laid-back atmosphere.

Picos de Europa (And Lagos de Covadonga)

Asturias is the third region in which this national park is situated. The Lakes of Covadonga are an absolute must-visit in this part of the park, which feels more like Switzerland, Austria , or Ireland rather than Spain.

Somiedo Natural Park

Forested mountains and valleys dotted with lakes and rivers, hundreds of species of flora and fauna, and unique stone cabins used by herdsmen are exactly what makes this park a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.

10. Galicia

The incredible coastline, green landscapes, big gorgeous cities, and adorable villages are the essence of Galicia. It’s also home to some lesser-known wine regions and several UNESCO Sites. Some of the main places to visit in Galicia:

Santiago de Compostela

The capital of the region and the endpoint of the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago), Santiago de Compostela is one of the most visited and religiously important cities in northern Spain. Its crowning glory is the cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century.

With a beautiful historic center, relaxing beaches, and plenty of museums, the coastal city of Vigo is worth a visit.

That said, my favorite activity was taking a day trip to the  Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (the Cies Islands) . The islands are an exotic paradise where you can soak up the sun but also take some scenic yet easy hikes.

Lugo is extremely unique because it is the only city in the entire world that is completely surrounded by perfectly intact Roman walls! It’s no wonder why these 3rd-century walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Combarro has to be one of my favorite fishing villages in Spain. Its streets and alleys are full of beauty, and it knows how to celebrate and preserve traditional Galician architecture.

A Coruña is a laid-back city where I instantly felt at home. Its highlights include historical landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Tower of Hercules and San Anton Castle along with modern attractions like the National Museum of Science and Technology and Fenosa Museum of Contemporary Art.

It also has lots of scenic viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, incredible restaurants, and relaxing beaches like Playa del Riazor and Playa de las Lapas.

11. Navarra

From natural landscapes and wine regions to historical towns and vibrant traditional Spanish festivals, it’s obvious why Navarra is the ‘land of diversity.’

You’ve probably heard about its most famous festival San Fermin, which is a bull-running festival that takes place in Pamplona (that I, personally, don’t encourage attending).

However, there’s a lot more to this region, so here are some places to visit in Navarra:

Ernest Hemingway wrote about Pamplona and the cruel San Fermin festival in his book ‘ The Sun Also Rises ,’ which made the city famous.

However, Pamplona is also known for its historic quarter and parks, so you can visit it without attending the festival.

Spain is home to some pretty gorgeous castles and palaces. But if you want to see a medieval royal palace that will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale, go to Olite, and pay a visit to the Palace of the Kings of Navarre of Olite.

Tudela is a historic city that was home to one of the most important Jewish communities in Navarra. It also preserves Arab and Christian heritage, so there are plenty of exciting corners to explore.

The Navarran Pyrenees

Nature lovers, as well as rural tourism lovers, will appreciate this vast green area. Forested mountains and striking valleys hiding medieval villages could be a great destination for an off-the-beaten-track trip to Spain.

Bardenas Reales

I told you Spain is full of surprises, and the Bardenas Reales Nature Reserve is one of them.

It is a semi-desert natural park with unusual sandstone formations, uniquely shaped hills, plateaus, and canyons, and it was also a filming location of the ‘Game of Thrones,’ so it’s pretty impossible to be intrigued by this unusual place.

12. La Rioja

When you hear the name ‘La Rioja,’ the first thing that probably comes to mind is wine. This region is home to over 500 wineries, and it even hosts an annual wine festival in the town of Haro .

Apart from world-famous wines, La Rioja is also home to historical and cultural landmarks, and several nature reserves.

Some of the main places to visit in La Rioja:

• Logroño : The capital city of the region, known for its exquisite culinary scene.
• Ezcaray : A charming and quiet small town.
• Sierra Cebollera Nature Reserve .

Offering a mix of nature, history, and culture, Aragon is a Spanish hidden gem.

It’s the birthplace of the famous painter Francisco de Goya, home to several UNESCO Sites, and renowned for its ski resorts.  Some of the main places to visit in Aragon:

As the capital of the region, there are plenty of things to do in Zaragoza , including admiring the Basilica del Pilar, visiting the medieval Aljafería Palace, exploring the city’s museums, and wandering through its old town.

The mountainous medieval city of Teruel is famous for its Mudejar-style landmarks. This architectural style is essentially referring to Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles combined with Moorish elements.

As a former capital of a Moorish kingdom, this medieval small town preserves both Christian and Islamic heritage. It’s also a popular rock-climbing spot, thanks to its surrounding rocky hills.

Ordesa Y Monte Perdido National Park

As a part of the Spanish Pyrenees, this national park is another amazing place to enjoy outstanding natural views and outdoor activities such as hiking, canyoning, and rafting.

14. Extremadura

Another region in which both history and nature are the main characteristics is Extremadura. It’s a lot less touristy than other areas, so it’s perfect for anyone who likes to travel off the beaten path.

Some of the main places to visit in Extremadura include:

• Caceres: A city with a medieval historic center that is a UNESCO Site.
• Hervas: A small town with a famous Jewish quarter.
• Merida: The capital city of the region and home to a significant Roman archeological site.
• Monfragüe National Park .
• Tajo International Nature Reserve .

15. Region of Murcia

The Region of Murcia can be a perfect destination in Spain for whoever wants to relax on sandy beaches and enjoy a variety of wellness centers and spas. Due to their relatively high salinity, many of the beaches of Murcia are considered natural spas.

Places to visit in the Region of Murcia:

• Murcia: The capital of the region.
• Cartagena: A coastal city that has many museums and archeological sites.
• Los Alcazares: A coastal spa town.

16. Canary Islands

Although these islands’ location is near Morroco, they are European territories.

Due to their incredible beaches (both white-sand and black-sand), unique volcanic views, and mild temperatures, they are a perfect destination all year round.

If you’re not sure if the Canary Islands are worth it , here’s a quick introduction to the seven main islands:

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. It’s mostly known for its volcanic landscapes and its Carnival, which provides one of the most unique Spain experiences.

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife takes place in February and March, and it is the second-largest Carnival in the world (after Rio de Janeiro ).

Another amazing thing to do in Tenerife is to visit the UNESCO-listed Teide National Park, where you can see the volcanic Mount Teide.

Due to its extensive and unique volcanic scenery, Lanzarote is always described as having ‘lunar’ landscapes. Thanks to these unusual formations, it is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Lanzarote is suitable for families , couples, girls’ trips, and any other group of travelers. Its highlights include the Timanfaya National Park, Los Volcanes Natural Park, and the black-sand Ciclos Beach.

Gran Canaria

Apart from more than 200 km of coastline, this island is a great place to engage in water sports and hike in nature reserves. Diving in Gran Canaria is a must, though you’ll find countless other outdoorsy things to do here.

Some of the island’s highlights include the Tamadaba Natural Park, the capital city of Las Palmas, and the Maspalomas sand dunes.

Fuerteventura

This island offers a mix of white-sand beaches, water sports, and nature reserves. You should visit places like Jandia Natural Park, Betancuria Rural Park, and Lobos Island.

From black-sand beaches to wide green national parks, this island is a paradise for nature lovers.

Although it is a small island, it features many different types of scenery like black-sand beaches, forests, and canyons.

El Hierro is another small island with diverse landscapes. It’s a perfect place to visit in Spain if you like diving, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities.

Do you love European islands? Read:

• Reasons to visit Crete
• 4 days in Crete
• Spinalonga Island tour
• Reasons to visit Malta
• 3 days in Malta
• Malta travel tips
• Where to stay in Malta

17. Balearic Islands

With such dreamy turquoise beaches, it’s no wonder that the Balearic Islands are a popular Mediterranean summer travel destination .

Besides sunbathing on the beach, you can enjoy a variety of water sports, visit some enchanting villages, and feast on stunning natural scenery. The Balearic Islands consist of five islands:

It is the largest island of the Balearic Islands and one of the most significant places of interest in Spain.

Boasting a fantastic coastline, mountains, and hiking trails, you’ll discover lots of things to do in Mallorca . You can also visit cities and towns like Palma, Deia, and Valldemossa.

Related posts:

• 7 days in Mallorca
• Hidden places in Mallorca
• Breakfast and brunch places in Palma de Mallorca
• Free things to do in Palma de Mallorca
• Is Mallorca worth visiting
• Mallorca packing list

Slightly quieter and more peaceful than Mallorca, this island is famous for water activities (especially diving), archeological sites, traditional fishing villages, and of course, mesmerizing beaches.

Ibiza can be a great European girls’ trip destination . Its nightlife and beaches are what make this island so famous, but it’s also home to several UNESCO Sites and natural parks.

Little fishing villages, water activities, and turquoise coves are what you can expect to find on this small island, which is usually visited on a day trip from Ibiza.

Cabrera Archipelago National Park

It is the smallest of the islands and a protected area. You can visit this inhabited island on a day trip from Mallorca.

Were you inspired by these bucket-list destinations? You might also like:

• Gift ideas for Spain lovers
• Spain travel quotes
• Travel quotes in Spanish
• Virtual tours of Spain

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Spain

From the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, and from there to the Atlantic, Spain is more diverse than stereotypes would have you believe. Paella and bullfighting may be Spanish, but neither defines this Iberian country . You’ll get to witness a wide range of culture in Spain – more than you’d expect.

Discover Catalan culture in Barcelona, complete with dreamlike buildings thanks to Antoni Gaud. Try out pintxos – the Basque take on tapas – in the northwest, and see the mark left by Moorish architecture in Andalusia in the south.

There’s a whole lot more besides. And that’s without even mentioning the beaches of the famous Costas. Or the incredible Roman ruins that dot the country – especially Segovia, with its aqueduct. Expect history, good food, and plenty of sun – all in healthy doses. Plan your trip to this awesome Mediterranean travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Spain.

Map of Places to Visit in Spain

Founded back in 25 AD by the Romans, Merida boasts some of the most impressive, extensive, and well-preserved ruins in the whole of Spain. Now the capital of the autonomous community of Extremadura , the city lies in the western-central part of the Iberian Peninsula, with the Guadiana and Albarregas rivers running through it.

As it boasts almost two thousand years of history, ancient historical sights and archaeological ruins are found wherever you go. Of these, the magnificent old Roman Theatre is a must visit; it still holds flamenco shows and theater performances to this day.

Besides this, there are the wonderful remains of a Moorish fortress, as well as a remarkably well-preserved bridge, aqueduct, and hippodrome – all of which were built by the Romans. In addition, there are some lovely Baroque and Gothic churches scattered around town, as well as interesting and informative museums showcasing the city’s rich history.

The largest city in Spain’s Basque Country, Bilbao lies on an estuary just 16 kilometers south of the Bay of Biscay . As its climate is milder and wetter than much of the rest of the country, the city’s parks and riverbanks are fertile and green, as are the rolling hills surrounding it.

Bilbao was best known as an important seaport and industrial city in northern Spain until the construction of an architectural marvel in the 1990s known as the Guggenheim Museum . Since then, this capital city of Vizcaya has experienced a boom in tourism, promoting economic growth and revitalization of its many hidden gems , making it a popular destination.

Celebrated as one of the most important architectural works of its time, the Guggenheim Museum now shines as Bilbao’s city symbol. Devoted to modern and contemporary art, this giant complex of interconnecting buildings presents a massive work of abstract sculpture that suggests a maritime theme with its simulation of ship outlines and shimmering fish scales.

Other places to go in Bilbao include the 14th century Gothic Cathedral of Santiago and the Basilica de Begoña. Built in 1909 and recently refurbished, the Alhondiga is a multipurpose complex housing a library, restaurants and a rooftop swimming pool with a glass floor.

15. Salamanca

The capital and largest city of the province of the same name, Salamanca lies on the banks of the Tormes River on Spain’s Northern Plateau. Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful Renaissance cities in the whole of Europe, its historic center is full of architectural treasures and incredible monuments that date back centuries.

Life in the city revolves around the busy and bustling Plaza Mayor , which is lined by cafes, bars and restaurants. The expansive and elegant square looks particularly magical at night when its majestic buildings are lit up.

Nearby, you can find other stunning places to see such as the New and Old Cathedrals, both of which exhibit exquisite architecture. Like the rest of the city, they are built out of sandstone. It is these warm hues that lend Salamanca its nickname – La Dorada , or ‘Golden City’.

While history is all around, Salamanca has a vivacious and youthful feel thanks to its large student population. Remarkably, the University of Salamanca was founded in 1218 and is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Europe.

One of the most popular cities to visit in the Castilla La Mancha region of Spain, Cuenca is located in a precarious position at the point where two deep river gorges meet. Its strategic setting saw it fought over, conquered and ruled by both the Muslims and Christians, with Napoleon himself leaving his mark in the early 1800s.

This makes it fascinating to explore; lots of centuries-old churches, a cathedral, and a castle can be found hidden away among the meandering streets of its medieval old town. While its beautiful buildings are painted in warm hues, vivid colors and daring designs coat the walls of its numerous modern art galleries and museums.

The charming city is particularly noted for its casas colgadas – or hanging houses – which are built over the side of the clifftop upon which Cuenca is perched. Besides being phenomenal feats of engineering, these astounding edifices make for some fantastic photos and are best viewed from the bridge of San Pablo.

The third largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is located off the east coast of Spain, surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean . While it is famous for its pounding nightlife and summer club scene which attract world-renowned DJs to its shores, the island actually has many other different sides.

Quite rocky and rugged, Ibiza is lined by beautiful bays and beaches; this, coupled with its warm, sunny and dry climate, makes it a great beach holiday destination . The largest city on the island, Ibiza Town boasts a majestic walled old town perched atop of a hill overlooking the sea.

While you can certainly find relaxing rural retreats and sleepy, seaside villages on the island, many people visit Ibiza for its incredible party scene and exhilarating electronic dance sets. In summer, its heaving clubs stay open through the night until dawn, when the sun finally rises over the sea.

12. Segovia

The capital and largest city of the province of the same name, Segovia is set in a scenic spot with the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains rising in the distance. Its sun-kissed streets straddle the Eresma River on Spain’s Inner Plateau with Valladolid and Madrid lying not far away.

Segovia is famed for its historical sights . Within its walled Old Town you can find the Aqueduct of Segovia , which was built around 100 AD by the Romans. While this engineering marvel acts as the city’s symbol, other astonishing sights, such as a grand and gorgeous Gothic cathedral and numerous churches, convents and monasteries, can be found nearby.

The other main attraction is the elegant Alcazar of Segovia , set atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the city. Said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, the medieval castle and palace features lots of fine architecture and was once one of the favorite royal residences of the Kings of Castille.

Located in one of the most spectacular settings imaginable, Ronda, in the south of Spain, straddles the steep El Tajo gorge , overlooking the valleys and hills that lie before it.

Spanning the breadth of the gorge is Puente Nuevo, the city’s main landmark built in 1793. The impressive bridge connects the more modern El Mercadillo part of town with El Ciudad , the old Moorish quarter, which is home to marvelous churches, elegant palaces and pretty gardens. The town is considered to be the cradle of modern Spanish bullfighting; its neoclassical ring is the oldest such building in the country.

Due to its rich cultural heritage and history as well as its dramatic clifftop setting, Ronda has long drawn writers and poets alike to its ancient streets.

While Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce and Rainer Maria Rilke all visited at one time or another, Ronda now attracts lots of tourists and is one of the most popular and picturesque towns to visit in Andalusia .

10. Santiago de Compostela

The capital city of the Galicia region in northwestern Spain, Santiago de Compostela is famous as the final destination of the traditional pilgrimage known as Camino de Santiago. Also called the Way of St. James, this pilgrimage dates back to Medieval times and is important to many because it is believed that Santiago de Compostela is where St. James , an Apostle of Jesus Christ, is buried. Today, the city attracts thousands of visitors every year for both its religious tradition and history.

The arriving point for most pilgrims is the main square, Praza do Obradoiro . Situated in the heart of the city, this bustling plaza is the scene of many important landmarks , particularly the Santiago Cathedral where the tomb of St. James is located. Other historic buildings here are GelmÌrez Palace, Rajoy Palace, Catholic Kings Hostal and San Jeronimo College.

The Pilgrimage Museum is a good place to learn all about the history and significance of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage while the Museum of the Galician People showcases the culture and history of the region.

Perched on a mountaintop in central Spain, Toledo served as the Spanish capital until the 16th century. Because it was inhabited by Jews, Christians and Muslims for many centuries, the city is sometimes called the “City of Three Cultures.” Today, Toledo is a popular destination for its wealth of historic art and architecture that dates back to the Roman Empire .

The best thing to do in Toledo is to get lost amid the medieval streets and admire the old architecture that includes stunning churches, synagogues and mosques as well as a remarkable old Roman fortress.

The site of many historic events, the Zordocover plaza is well worth a visit as well as the many nearby shops. Charming cafes offer a break to relax, people-watch and sample local specialties like Mazapan , a sweet treat made with almonds and pine nuts. In the evenings, local bars offer pre-dinner drinks and tapas.

Once the home of Spain’s great painter, El Greco , Toledo features a vibrant arts scene. The city is teeming in museums and art galleries while the Cathedral of Toledo has an impressive art collection of works by masters like Goya, Ralphael and Titian. A great number of El Greco’s pieces can be seen throughout many of the city’s churches and landmarks.

Cordoba is the capital of the province of the same name in the Andalusian region of southern Spain. While Cordoba is characterized by its small town charm, this mid-size city offers all the historic and cultural attractions of a bustling metropolis.

One of the oldest towns in Europe, the historic quarter of Cordoba is a maze of tiny medieval streets, plazas and whitewashed courtyards all situated around the star attraction, the Mezquita . Initially built as a mosque, the Mezquita is now a glorious cathedral retaining most of its original architecture. Its forest of columns topped with Islamic-style red and white striped arches serves as a reminder of the glory and importance Córdoba held in medieval times. Outside the Mezquita is a beautiful orange grove perfect for relaxing.

Other places of interest include the Fortress of the Christian Monarchs, the Street of Flowers, and the Old Jewish Quarter with its charming patios and souvenir shops. Once a Roman city, Cordoba also features many Roman structures including its old walls, gates, bridge, an amphitheater and mausoleum.

Throughout the city are various plazas offering a range of museums, theaters, restaurants, hotels and bars. Plaza de las Tendillas is the main square with a vibrant shopping scene while the Plaza del Port is associated with Cervantes’s Don Quixote.

Cordoba is buzzing in the month of May with three lively festivals that include the May Crosses Festival, the Patios Festival and the Codoba Fair. During these events, the city’s plazas and courtyards are all decorated while various contests, flamenco dancing, traditional food and drink all fill the streets.

7. San Sebastian

San Sebastian is the capital of the Gipuzko province, located in the Basque country of North Spain off the coast of the Bay of Biscay. This beautiful seaside city is well-loved for its excellent beaches and outstanding culinary tradition.

Although it is divided into several districts, San Sebastian is a small, cozy city crammed with restaurants, pintxo bars, designer shops and an enclosed mall. The Old Town features many historic buildings reconstructed in the 19th century after the city was nearly destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars.

San Sebastian boasts some of the best beaches in Europe with the most popular of these being Playa de la Concha , which offers sunbathing and water activities like swimming, kayaking and water skiing. Playa de la Zurriola attracts many surfers and provides surf board and body board rentals.

Overlooking the city are two lofty hills, Monte Urgell and Mount Igueldo, which offer hiking, funicular rides, amusement parks, remarkable statues and fantastic views.

San Sebastian is widely appreciated in Spain for its pintxos . Pintxos are appetizers, which are prepared in a wide variety of fresh vegetables, meats and seafood. Many of the bars in the city feature buffets displaying a range of these pintxos. The local tradition is to go from one bar to the next, sampling one or two pintxos with a drink of wine or beer.

A number of festivals and events take place in the city throughout the year. Drawing the most crowds are the San Sebastian Film Festival and the Jazz Festival.

6. Valencia

One of the largest and most important cities in Spain , Valencia is located in the eastern part of the country in the region of Valencia. After several years of major construction and renovation, Valencia today is famous for its Fallas Festival and the City of Arts and Sciences architectural masterpiece.

Valencia is stuffed with restored historic buildings that include stunning churches, old monasteries such as San Miguel de los Reyes and the site of an ancient silk trade center known today as the Silk Exchange Market.

See also: Where to Stay in Valencia

After redirecting the Turia River, the city constructed its most impressive attraction , a massive cultural and entertainment complex known as the City of Arts and Science. Contained within this complex are several buildings such as a science museum, planetarium, aquarium, arts museum and an IMAX theater that are each artistic marvels in and of themselves. Also included in the old Turia riverbed are beautiful gardens, athletic parks and artificial lakes.

One of Valencia’s most popular neighborhoods is the Barri del Carme with its colorful mix of architecture, diverse ethnic groups, trendy shops and outdoor cafes.

Every March, Valencia hosts the Fallas Festival where each neighborhood displays papier-mâché figures of all sizes and colors for a whole week. At the end of the week, the “fallas” are ceremoniously burned, and the communities party into the night. However, March isn’t the only time to party in Valencia. Every night, the city vibrates with lively bars and nightclubs in every neighborhood.

Exceptional tourist attractions , lively festivals and buzzing nightlife all make Seville the top destination in Southern Spain. As the capital city of Andalusia, Seville is also the region’s financial and cultural capital.

Seville is home to many beautiful and important historic landmarks, chief of which is the grand Cathedral of Seville , where it is believed that Christopher Columbus is buried. Other significant buildings include the Real Alcazar , an extravagant Moorish palace with luxurious gardens and a room where Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the New World was planned.

See also: Where to Stay in Seville

The city is also home to the largest wooden structure in the world, the Metropol Parasol, a giant umbrella-shaped structure housing the main market.

As the region’s cultural capital, Seville offers numerous museums, art galleries and entertainment venues. When the sun goes down, the nightlife scene lights up in Seville’s neighborhoods with their bars, nightclubs and flamenco dance halls.

Every year, Seville hosts its April Fair, one of Spain’s most celebrated events, where the city’s streets turn into one giant party involving centuries-old customs, traditional costumes, flamenco dancing, bullfights and plenty of local food and drink.

Spain’s capital and largest city, Madrid, is widely known for its sizzling nightlife scene. Home to a number of universities, the city constitutes a diversity of ethnic groups, making it one of Europe’s most colorful cosmopolitan cities.

Madrid is a beautiful city mixed with old and new architecture. The capital is comprised of several neighborhoods offering their own unique character and attractions ranging from historic quarters to older crowd communities, university areas, multicultural districts and party scenes.

The heart of the city is Puerta del Sol , a large plaza serving as the scene of festivals, important gatherings and street performers as well as a hub for the public transportation network. Another important square is Plaza Mayor , known for its many souvenir shops, cafes and the lively San Miguel Market.

Located within the city center are most of Madrid’s most popular tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace , the residence of Spain’s monarch, and a plethora of glorious churches and historic landmarks. Madrid offers many things to see and do from beautiful parks and zoos to football matches, museums, art galleries and concerts.

3. Mallorca

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, with jagged cliffs, secluded coves, and beautiful beaches lining its shores. Long a popular tourist destination , the island is blessed with a warm and welcoming climate and plenty of incredible scenery.

While its mountainous interior is home to ancient hilltop monasteries and sleepy villages, Mallorca ‘s spectacular coastline is dotted with seaside towns and resorts. Sunbathing, swimming and watersports are all popular pastimes, with delicious local cuisine and seafood on offer wherever you go.

The island’s main city and capital is Palma de Mallorca . There is a beautiful old town for visitors to explore, with winding narrow streets and centuries-old buildings beneath its exquisite Gothic cathedral. The pretty town of Soller is also worth visiting for its scenic, secluded setting, as is the charming mountain village of Valldemossa.

2. Barcelona

Located in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is one of the country’s top travel destinations because it offers everything tourists look for in a European city from historic architecture to lively shopping, vibrant culture and buzzing nightlife.

Ciutat Vella, the Old City, is Barcelona’s main attraction . Here, tourists will find the Gothic Quarter with its beautiful, old churches, Roman ruins and cobblestone streets lined with outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Surrounded by statues and fountains, La Placa Catalunya is a popular gathering spot and hub for local transportation services. Popular activities in Barcelona include strolling along La Rambla , a tree-lined pedestrian avenue, and sunbath on Barceloneta, one of the city’s most popular beaches.

Unique to Barcelona are the architectural marvels of Spain’s famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, which include the Sagrada Familia and the Casa Batllo . Both of these extraordinary structures feature combinations of fascinating designs, shapes and colors.

As a major cultural center, Barcelona boasts a variety of museums , art galleries, theaters and flamenco shows. The city also hosts a number of festivals including the Monegros Desert Festival, one of Spain’s largest electronic music events. With its long love affair with sports, Barcelona is home to the largest football stadium in the world, Nou Camp.

Just outside of the city is one of Barcelona’s most visited sites , Montserrat. Accessed by hiking, train or cable car, Montserrat is the site of secret caves, an underground lake and the Black Madonna.

Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains of southern Spain, Granada is the capital of the Granada province. A mid-sized city, Granada offers a perfect blend of spectacular attractions , traditional cultures and an animated nightlife. But most of all it is the home of the Alhambra , a pinnacle of Moorish art that encapsulates Andalusian history and is one of the great architectural sights of Europe.

Attesting to the city’s eventful history are its most notable landmarks, the 16th century Granada Cathedral with its magnificent domed ceiling, and the famous Alhambra, a grand Moorish palace with luxurious gardens and Arab baths.

Granada’s juxtaposing neighborhoods, Sacromonte and Albaicin , are the essence of the city’s culture. Noted for its Christian abbey, Sacromonte is where tourists come to see how gypsies have traditionally lived in various cave dwellings and to watch live dances of flamenco and zambra.

Albaicin, the Arabic Quarter, is the site of a hundred year-old Spice Market. Here among a setting of Moorish architecture, cobblestone streets and vivid bougainvillea, a medley of vendors sell colorful tapestries, wall hangings and exotic teas and spices.

Just outside the city, the Nevada Ski station offers a wide range of activities for all seasons from snow skiing and sledding to mountain climbing, horse riding and cable car rides.

In the evenings, locals roam from one bar to the next, sampling tapas and drinks before immersing themselves in the city’s entertainment choices.

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Reader interactions.

November 25, 2018 at 10:48 am

Spain is a really a nice country …. The Madrid zoo was fabulous.. The La Rambla in Barcelona was a fun street with lots of shopping places and small restaurants…but the best city in Spain is undoubtedly Seville! Seville is a really beautiful city with big fountains, beautiful churches, nice hotels, little restaurants, small and pleasant streets and beautiful flamenco dancers! I really enjoyed travelling in the tram there…. Most beautiful city I have ever visited!

November 15, 2018 at 1:09 am

I was robbed In Granada. The police were very cooperative. Spain is stunning, in general, the people are so lovely. Now at a villa on the Mediterranean Sea, it is winter .for me it is the sky, surf, sun and sand.

November 13, 2017 at 7:04 pm

Hello, I’m an American. Single woman who will travel alone. I have always loved Spain! I won’t be partying or anything like that, rather I want to see the beautiful cathedrals and historical landmarks. Is it safe to travel by myself taking certain precautions. San Sebastian is definitely on my list and I would love to see some of the smaller cities talked about here on this site.

September 19, 2017 at 7:07 am

I love Spain: specially Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Avila and Seville!

June 25, 2017 at 9:30 am

We just got back from Malaga, Spain….visited the city of Ronda while there…Malaga was beautiful but I found the shopping, and the food/drink was expensive. The City of Ronda was beyond beautiful and enjoyed it immensely. I can’t wait to go back, not sure where I will go next, but it will not be a bustling city…I’m sure Spain has some beautiful small towns that did not make the list that would be lovely to visit.

September 14, 2016 at 3:29 am

I was in Costa Daurada this summer near to Barcelona and it was really gorgeous location. Perfect for families ! We were staying in Salou and enjoy the cultural activities but also many sports activities for my childs, really nice place for holidays

September 10, 2016 at 3:20 am

Hi thanks for the advice. I’m on my way to Malaga soon and would like to tour Spain using the rail service. Any advice on how to get the best deals?

June 14, 2016 at 1:23 am

I loved Spain as a whole in general.If I had to pick the best then order would be Toledo , Seville, Granada, Barcelona,Cordoba,Madrid, Segovia.Loved Toledo n Seville the most.Only visited these places.San Sebastion ,Valencia ,Ibiza ,seville ,mallorca etc.etc. still on the list for next visit.

January 10, 2016 at 2:28 pm

I live in Madrid and I wouldn’t really recommend it for tourists, it’s a nice city and all but I prefer Barcelona with the beach and beautiful buildings and everything, or seville / valencia if you are interested in a city semester.

December 28, 2015 at 5:13 am

I’ve been there last summer, I would also add the city of Ronda to this list, amazing small town with a fantastic scenery.

October 31, 2015 at 5:53 pm

I’ve seen the temperature from Seville you’ve got, and I can completely assure that these are completely fake!! I don’t understand the fahrenheit measures, but we usually have 50-52 degrees in July and august. Or more. So, think about coming Seville in these months. Seville is more beautiful on April or November.

November 2, 2015 at 1:11 am

@Maria, I’ve been to Seville in August, and yes it was extremely warm! However I don’t think it ever gets warmer than 45. Good point though about avoiding Seville in the summer if you prefer milder weather.

August 1, 2015 at 2:05 pm

if I’m to make my own list,Mallorca, Sevilla and Madrid would make the top 3…..about the robbery,that can almost happen every where. Sorry about that and be more watchful next time.

March 4, 2015 at 11:46 am

Nice list. Only seen half of them. I guess it’s top 10 big cities because there are so many smaller cities that are really beautiful, historical and unique. Examples from the South: Cadiz, Ronda, Antequera. I’m not so familiar with all other regions. All parts of the country have their spots. Of the cities om the list personally I enjoy Granada, Sevilla and San Sebastian more than Barcelona but I agree that Barcelona is a must-place to see in so many ways. Also one more vote for Burgos! It’s epic and picturesque and it’s not a small place either, should be on the list. Saludos desde Finlandia!

March 3, 2015 at 8:54 am

Hi, I’m from Spain, I don’t agree with the order of the list. Barcelona is very nice but I don’t think that it’s the best. And my city isn’t in the list, it’s really nice and it’s got a lot of monuments like its cathedral and a great culture. I would like you to add Burgos on the list

June 10, 2014 at 2:01 am

Hi Global Nomads, you are obviously seasoned travelers. I agree, steer clear of places where they rob tourists. I went to Miami once and got robbed…. you can keep the USA, I’m not going back to America after that. Happy traveling .

May 14, 2014 at 8:53 am

I disagree completely with the order of this list. There is NO WAY that Barcelona’s the best place to visit. Galicia, Granada, Sevilla, are much better choices. I agree with Pep. La Alhambra is much more worth seeing than going to Barcelona.

October 1, 2013 at 2:06 pm

Seville and Madrid city center are more beautiful than Barcelona but they don’t spend so much money in hype. The most beautiful building in Spain is “La Alhambra”, Granada. It’s gorgeous. Other nice places: Salamanca, Segovia, Cáceres, Menorca, Altea, and Ronda.

July 28, 2013 at 4:46 pm

Live Spain and ant wait to see at least 4 of the above places, Barcelona was so nice had to go back twice.

June 16, 2013 at 12:57 pm

We tried Alicante, but got robbed in the bus station and did not feel like touring the country any further.

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Spain's 10 natural wonders

Oct 26, 2020 • 5 min read

From the snow-capped mountains to subterranean lava tubes, Spain's natural wonders are a must-see © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Spain itself is a natural wonder. The Pyrenees and Picos de Europa are as beautiful as any mountain range on the continent, while the snowcapped Sierra Nevada rises up improbably from the sun-baked plains of Andalucía. The wildly beautiful cliffs of Spain’s Atlantic northwest are offset by the charming coves of the Mediterranean. Here are Spain's top natural wonders. 

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Playa de la Concha

Fulfilling almost every idea of how a perfect city beach should be formed, Playa de la Concha (and its westerly extension, Playa de Ondarreta ) in San Sebastian  is easily among the best city beaches in Europe. Tanned and toned bodies spread across the sand throughout the long summer months, when a fiesta atmosphere prevails. The swimming is almost always safe. At night, the view of the bay's twinkling lights and illuminated monuments is magical.

Picos de Europa 

Jutting out in compact form, just back from the rugged and ever-changing coastline of Cantabria and Asturias, the Picos de Europa comprise three dramatic limestone massifs, unique in Spain but geologically similar to the Alps and jammed with inspiring trails.

These peaks and valleys form Spain’s second-largest national park, with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country – no small claim considering the presence of the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. The Picos de Europa deservedly belong in such elite company.

Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido 

This is where the Spanish Pyrenees really take your breath away. The national park extends south from a dragon's back of limestone peaks along the French border and includes Monte Perdido (3355m/7398ft), the third-highest summit in the Pyrenees.

The wonderful scenery of plunging canyons, towering cliffs, thick forests, rivers, waterfalls, snow peaks, mountain lakes and high-level glaciers makes this the place to head for if you can manage only one destination in the Spanish Pyrenees. 

Chief among the valleys and canyons slicing down from the high ground are the Valle de Ordesa (west), Cañón de Añisclo (south), Valle de Escuaín (southeast) and Valle de Pineta (east). The main access towns are Torla for the Valle de Ordesa; Aínsa for Añisclo and Escuaín; and Bielsa for Pineta.

Cueva de Tito Bustillo 

Some of Spain’s finest cave art, including superb horse paintings, probably done around 15,000 to 10,000 BCE, is within this World Heritage–listed cave in East Coast Asturias. Daily visitor numbers are limited, so reservations (online or in person) are essential. 

Of the cave's 12 clusters of paintings, only the Panel Principal (Main Panel; mostly deer, horses, goats and bison) can be visited. The one-hour visit (guided, in Spanish) includes some slippery stretches, and children under seven are not admitted.

Acantilados de los Gigantes 

These astonishing, dark rock cliffs soar sublimely 600m (1969ft) from the ocean, forging a magnificent natural geological spectacle right on the edge of Los Gigantes. Try to stop by when the sun sets for an added wow factor. The best views of the cliffs are from out at sea (there’s no shortage of companies offering short cruises) and from Playa de los Gigantes. You can clamber up and along to the end of Calle Tabaiba to a natural lookout point for superb views.

La Geoda de Pulpí

In 2019, the world's second-largest geode opened to the public in northeastern Almería's Sierra del Aguilón. Measuring an astounding 8m (26ft) long by 2m (7ft) tall, this rare geological marvel was discovered by Madrid-based mineralogists in the abandoned Mina Rica, where iron, lead and silver were mined until the Spanish Civil War. Guided tours lead visitors 60m (197ft) underground down corridors and metal steps, culminating with a chance to clamber inside the geode and view its dazzling collection of translucent gypsum crystals.

Asturian Coast 

According to one count, the emerald-green northern Spanish region of Asturias boasts more than 600 beaches. While the coolness of the Atlantic may be a drawback for those planning on catching some sun and taking the plunge, the beauty of many of these frequently wild and unspoiled stretches is utterly breathtaking. Even better, the villages of the coast and hinterland are among the prettiest anywhere along the Spanish shoreline, and the food served in this part of the country is famous throughout Spain.

Sierra Nevada

Providing Granada’s dramatic backdrop, the wild snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada range are home to the highest point in mainland Spain (Mulhacén, 3479m/11414ft) and Europe’s most southerly ski resort at Pradollano. The Sierra Nevada extends about 75km (47mi) from west to east, with 15 peaks over 3000m (9843ft). The lower southern reaches, peppered with bucolic white villages, are collectively known as Las Alpujarras.

Some 862 sq km (333 sq mi) are encompassed by the Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada, Spain’s largest national park, designated in 1999. This vast protected area is home to 2100 of Spain’s 7000 plant species, including unique types of crocus, narcissus, thistle, clover and poppy, as well as Andalucía’s largest ibex population (around 15,000). Bordering the national park at lower altitudes is the 864-sq-km Parque Natural Sierra Nevada (334 sq mi).

Cueva de los Verdes

A yawning, mile-long chasm, the Cueva de los Verdes, located in Malpais de la Corona in Northern Lanzarote, is the most spectacular segment of an almost 7km-long lava tube (23ft) left behind by an eruption 5000 years ago. As the lava plowed down towards the sea, the top layers cooled and formed a roof, beneath which the liquid magma continued to slither until the eruption exhausted itself. Guided 50-minute tours, in Spanish and English, run every 30 minutes; you'll wander through two chambers, one below the other.

The ceiling is largely covered with what look like mini-stalactites, but in fact no water penetrates the cave: the odd pointy extrusions are where bubbles of air and lava were thrown up onto the ceiling by gases released while the boiling lava flowed, and, as they hit the ceiling, they hardened in the process of dripping back down.

Piscinas de Punta Mujeres 

One of the most magical swimming spots on Lanzarote , this cluster of glittering turquoise natural pools dots the coast in the tranquil whitewashed fishing village of Punta Mujeres, 2km (1.2mi) northeast of Arrieta. A few ladders provide access to the pools, overlooked by sun-soaking spots.

A wonderful tapas bar, La Piscina , overlooks one of the most popular pools.

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30 Famous Spain Landmarks

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From medieval castles to dreamy mosques and futuristic museums, the list of landmarks in Spain is truly impressive. From Barcelona to Madrid and beyond, these incredible Spain landmarks tell stories of the country’s rich history.

From Gothic to Gaudi to Gehry, Spain has stunningly beautiful and innovative monuments and landmarks. So, here are 30 famous landmarks of Spain to tick off your bucket list. 

1- Basilica La Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)

2- alhambra (granada), 3- guggenheim museum (bilbao), 4- alcázar fortress (segovia), 5- great mosque (cordoba) , 6- niemeyer centre (asturias), 7- ciudad de las artes y las ciencias (valencia), 8- parc guell, 9- altamira caves (cantabria), 10- the walls of avila, 11- roman walls (lugo), 12- roman remains of tarragona, 13- plaza de españa (seville), 14- tower of hercules (la coruna), 15- santiago de compostela cathedral (santiago), 16- tibidabo cathedral, 17- burgos cathedral, 18- monuments of oviedo and the kingdom of the asturias, 19- antequera (andalusia), 20- torre de cerredo (picos de europa), 21- monte perdido (pyrénées), 22- san lorenzo de el escorial, 23- plaza mayor, 24- palacio real, 25- museo nacional del prado, 26- plaza de toros de las ventas, 27- real madrid santiago bernabeu stadium, 28- atocha railway station, 29- flamenco dancing in madrid, 30- tapas bars, 30 spain landmarks to tick off your bucket list, famous spain landmarks .

Conjured from the fertile imagination of one of the world’s most famous architects of all time, Basilica La Sagrada Familia is Gaudi’s most famous work.

He started building it in Barcelona in 1883 and worked on it right up until his death but even today, this world-famous landmark in Spain is still not complete.

When Gaudi took over the project from the original architect, who had planned a neo-Gothic building, it changed Barcelona forever taking its place as one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.

Gaudí managed to complete the chapel of San José, the crypt and the door of El  Nacimiento. 

La Sagrada Familia is at Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain. Book a tour to see it here . 

Alhambra is a Spain landmark that impresses most visitors. It’s a dreamy palace and fortress in Andalucia.

The Alhambra in Granada is a mysteriously alluring complex of buildings and gardens, with tree-lined walkways and flowing streams.

Once a major political hub for the Muslims in the west, the palace is a breathtaking geometrical landmark in Spain with rectangular courtyards and fountains.

It’s a fairytale palace with Nasrid buildings, which was once where the Muslim rulers lived, and the enchanting courtyard of the Lions with its magical fountains. 

Alcazaba citadel is the oldest structure in Alhambra while the view from La Vela tower is stunning.

Spain’s most famous landmark can be explored while on an Andalucia road trip. 

Alhambra is a popular attraction that can get very busy so beat the queues and pre-purchase your ticket and tour here . 

Alhambra is at Calle Real de la Alhambra, Granada, Spain. 

As soon as you set eyes on the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao you will know why it’s a famous landmark in Spain. The futuristic design by Frank Gehry is jaw-dropping.

A contemporary architectural masterpiece in the heart of Spain’s Basque Country, Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum is a Spain landmark that is truly awe-inspiring.  

Built from titanium, glass and limestone, the futuristic design of the museum makes it one of the most impressive buildings of the 20th century. 

The titanium curves and soaring glass gives the building a timeless look that would most likely not be out of place 100 or 200 years from now.   

Even though there are a number of worthwhile things to do in Bilbao, spending time in this modern museum designed by Frank Gehry and admiring its architecture is one of the main reasons why you would visit this city.

This private guided visit is an experience to remember.  

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is at Abandoibarra Etorb., 2, 48009 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain.

Alcazar is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.

Built on to of a rock, Alcazar Fortress in Segovia looks like a fairytale castle straight out of a Medieval story.

Alfonso VIII lived in the fortress in the 12th century before architectural improvements turned it into a Gothic castle in the 13th century.

Charles II founded the Royal College of Artillery at the fortress in 1764 and it’s worth paying a visit to the Artillery Museum. 

The fortress has secret passageways used to escape to the river and connected a number of palaces within the city. 

Alcazar is a popular landmark in Spain and the palace is often packed with visitors so do book your ticket in advance to avoid having to queue.  

Alcazar is at Patio de Banderas, Sevilla, Spain.

The Great Mosque in Cordoba is a unique landmark in Spain.

Built in 785 by Emir Abdurrahman I, the Great Mosque of Cordoba is a representation of Spain’s Muslim art.

One of the unique things about this mosque is it was constructed on the site where the ancient Visigoth church of San Vicente once stood.

Inside the mosque is a labyrinth of columns with double arcades and horseshoe arches.

In 1523, the Christians conquered the region and built a cathedral inside the mosque.

The internal craftsmanship is impeccable and it’s impressive to see the Byzantine mosaic and crafted marble. 

Mosque of Cordoba is at Calle Cardenal Herrero, Córdoba, Spain.

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The Niemeyer Centre in Asturias is one of the most architecturally intriguing Spanish landmarks of modern times.

Located minutes from the historic town centre of Aviles, the Niemeyer Centre is a modern architectural Spanish landmark built in 2011.

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the famous architect who designed many Brazilian landmarks, the centre is a cultural hub with a programme of concerts, exhibitions, plays, dances, films and cultural events.

The design consists of an auditorium, dome, a 20m tower and there’s also a restaurant with great views of the city.

Niemeyer Centre is at Avenida del zinc s/n, 33402 Avilés, Asturias  (Principality of Asturias).

Another contemporary landmark in Spain is the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia.

Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava’s stunning suite of contemporary buildings is an impressive landmark in the Spanish city of Valencia.

The futuristic cluster of museums and art halls, along with an aquarium designed by another Spaniard Félix Candela were completed in 2005 have been used as film sets for Dr Who and Tomorrowland. 

Oceanografic resembles a water lily and is Europe’s largest aquarium, home to over 500 species of marine life from all over the world.

The Principe Felipe Science Museum has interactive displays and demonstrations of scientific principles while the Hemisferic Cinema, with its spherical roof, is the place to watch fascinating 3D shows. 

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences) cost €900 million to build and is at Av. del Professor Lopez Pinero, Valencia.  This ticket offers discounts to the Hemisferic, Principe Felipe Science Museum and Oceanographic. 

Historic Landmarks in Spain

Parc Guell is a colourful and creative creation from the imagination of Spain’s most famous painter, Antonio Gaudi.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an opulent artistic attraction in Barcelona built between 1904 and 1906 that was originally intended to be a garden. 

Visiting Parc Guell offers a peek into the flamboyant world of Gaudi and Catalan Modernisme architecture, where there are no straight lines. 

Highlights are the Gaudi Museum House, Greek Theatre, Austrian Garden and Hypostyle Room. Book your ticket to Parc Guell here . 

Two kilometres from the picturebook town of Santillana del Mar lies 14,000-year-old cave paintings of animals in the Altamira Caves. 

This World Heritage-listed site is home to some of the best prehistoric rock art in the world.

The paintings depict prehistoric scenes of animals such as bison, deer and wild boar using natural red ochre with black outlines. 

Unfortunately, you’re not allowed into the original cave as the paintings are fragile but there’s a reproduction in the Altamira Museum cave.

Altamira Caves is at Avenida Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, s/n, 39330, Cantabria, Spain. Visit Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Museum together. 

The medieval walls of Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries.

The Walls of Avila form a circuit of 2.5 km (1.5 miles) around the old city.

The 88 semi-circular towers are an impressive sight as you walk around the walls, making this a spectacular Spain monument.

Once part of Roman Lusitania, Avila was conquered by Arab and Berber invaders in 714 CE before Alfonso VI of León and Castile sacked the Muslim rulers in 1088 AD.

Avila is about 100km from Madrid in Castile and León’s autonomous community.

Lugo’s Roman walls were built in the 3rd century as a defence for Lugo’s town (then known as Lucus Augusti) from 263 to 276 AD against Germanic attackers.

The wall stretches over two kilometres surrounding the town and is in good shape.

There are 10 gates, five of which date back to the Roman era, and 49 original towers that are still intact.

The UNESCO’s World Heritage-listed wall is one of the finest remaining in Europe.

Tarragona’s Roman remains is one of the iconic Spain landmarks because it is the most intact Roman remains in the country.

Also known as Tárraco, it was the first Roman settlement on the Iberian Peninsula and a thriving city of Roman times.

The 2nd AD amphitheatre, Roman walls, Roman forum and citadel form part of this incredible World Heritage Site.

Tarragona is a Mediterranean city port on the Costa Daurada in Catalonia.

Plaza de España (Spanish Steps) is a landmark in Seville located within Maria Luisa Park.

Famous for its blend of Renaissance, Baroque and Moorish architecture, Plaza de Espana was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition.

It’s home to government offices and surrounded by lovely gardens.

This Spanish landmark’s unique feature is the half-circle design with a moat and buildings linked by bridges symbolizing Spain’s four ancient kingdoms.

Vicente Traver fountain is an eye-catching landmark within a landmark that compliments the plaza’s blue-tiled walls.

Plaza de España is in Seville and can be reached on the metro Prado de San Sebastian (line 1).

One of Spain’s oldest landmarks, the Tower of Hercules in La Coruña is a lighthouse dating back to the 2nd century.

This famous landmark graces the Galician coast and is a replica of the Pharos of Alexandria.

The Tower of Hercules was an offering to Mars, the Roman god of war, and has been a beacon on the coastline or 1,900 years.

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Religious Landmarks of Spain

Cathedral Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful landmark in Spain that attracts pilgrims from around the world.

Of all the monuments in the World Heritage city of Santiago, the Cathedral Santiago de Compostela is the one that stands out as a landmark in Spain that has stood the test of time.

The cathedral is in Plaza del Obradoiro square and is where all roads into Santiago converge.

The most significant feature of this hallowed Spain landmark is the Cathedral is the final stop on the pilgrims’ journey. 

Built the Romanesque architectural style, construction started in 1075 during the reign of Alfonso VI but over the years, Gothic, Baroque, Plateresque and Neoclassical extensions and improvements have been added to the original building.  

The floor plan is a Latin cross and the La Gloria portico at the main entrance has a display of 200 figurines representing the Apocalypse.

Saint James the apostle stands on a column to welcome pilgrims.

The Cathedral’s Obradoiro façade, the work of Fernando de Casas y Novoa, is one of the most famous examples of Spanish Baroque design. 

Santiago de Compostela is at Praza do Obradoiro, s/n, 15704 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain. Book this full-day tour of Santiago de Compostela . 

The impressive Tibidabo Cathedral is a landmark in Spain everyone should visit while in Barcelona.

It took two generations of architects to complete Tibidabo Cathedral between 1902 and 1961.

The modernista and neogothic cathedral sits on Tibidabo hill and is a handsome architectural landmark of Barcelona that resembles the Basilica de Sacre-Coeur in Paris.

The cathedral has beautiful stonework, amazing stained-glass windows, a crypt and viewing platforms to enjoy views of Barcelona.

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The Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de Santa María de Burgos is a Catholic church in the city of Burgos.

This relatively unknown gem is one of the great Gothic churches of Spain and honours the Virgin Mary.

This historic landmark in Spain has beautiful French Gothic architecture from the 13th century and is home to artworks and sculptures.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral has 15 chapels, altars and beautiful spires. Burgos Cathedral is at Plaza de Santa María, Burgos.

Another UNESCO World Heritage gem, the Monuments of Oviedo represent a time when Christianity reigned supreme on the Iberian Peninsula.

These Spanish historical monuments date back to the 9th century. They are some of the most significant examples of religious architecture.

Many are within Santa Maria del Naranco, Santa Cristina de Lena and San Miguel de Lillo churches.

Another iconic monument here is the hydraulic engineering structure, La Foncalada, which is visionary for its time.

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Spain’s Natural Landmarks

Antequera is another UNESCO World Heritage archaeological gem, located in the heart of Andalusia in Southern Spain.

Its impressive megalithic tombs (Viera, El Romeral and Menga) dates back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age and are the best-preserved dolmens in Europe.

Antequera’s natural monuments, La Peña de los Enamorados (Lover’s Rock) and El Torcal, are uniquely-shaped rocks that are two of Spain’s best natural landmarks.

The closest airport to Antequera is Malaga Airport.

Torre de Cerredo (2650m) is the highest peak in Picos de Europa (or peaks of Europe) and a stunning natural landmark of Spain.

The mountain range is on the north coast, 20 km inland from the northern coast of Spain.

Although Torre de Cerredo is the tallest mountain, what makes this range such an attraction is there are many peaks over 2600 m.

This stunning mountain range is a hidden gem that is a magnet for those who love hiking and mountaineering.

With a landscape of glistening glacier-fed lakes, soaring limestone peaks and plunging gorges, Picos de Europa is a place in Spain to tick off your bucket list.

The villages of Espinama and Sotres are excellent places to use as a base for hiking trips. The nearest airports Santander and Bilbao.

The Pyrénées straddles Spain and France, however, the Spain side of the border has the largest and deepest canyons.

Monte Perdido is 3,355 m high Monte Perdido is the third-highest mountain in the Pyrenees, and its summit is in Spain.

It’s is home to canyons, lakes, alpine flora and fauna such as the Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture).

The range’s pastoral landscape holds the history of the region’s agricultural activities and the curving mountain roads lead past farms, fields and pastures.

Monte Perdido is to the north of Huesca province.

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Landmarks in Madrid

Watching Flamenco dancers, eating in tapas bars and exploring museums are some of the exciting things to do in Madrid and beyond. Madrid is Spain’s capital and also home to several historic landmarks of Spain. So, if you only have time to visit Madrid, here are some Spain landmarks you can see in one visit. 

Saint Lorenzo El Escorial is a stunning Spain landmark near Madrid.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial is a sprawling historic royal complex with a grand palace, monastery, church, mausoleum, library and museum.

This Spanish monument is dedicated to the reign of Philip II and has courtyards, rooms and halls connected by 16 km of corridors.

Herrera’s 30 m jasper and red marble retablo is an impressive religious work of art and a main feature in the church, while the Tibaldi’s frescoes a festooned in the library and other rooms.  

The Panteón de los Reyes is a historic Baroque burial vault and final resting place of several Spanish kings.

The palace highlights the grand lifestyles of Spain’s monarchy with displays of paintings by famous artists, tapestries and antique furniture. 

San Lorenzo de El Escorial is in El Escorial de Arriba, which is a town 47 km from Madrid. As this is a very popular attraction, it’s worth skipping the line and booking a tour like this one in advance . 

As you sit in one of the alfresco cafes in the centre of Plaza Mayor, sipping on a café solo, a shot of strong black coffee, it is easy to envisage the bustling marketplace that once took place right in Madrid’s historical heart.

This lively town centre also played host to royal festivities, the ritual burning of heretics and gory bullfights.

Today’s entertainment, however, is a touch milder, with local artists painting pictures of bullfights, people queuing up for promotional sachets of food samples and a myriad of busy craft shops filled with visitors hunting for souvenirs.

In the centre of the Plaza, there is a statue of King Felipe III astride his mighty stallion.

If you happen to be in Madrid on a Sunday morning, you’ll find a bustling stamp and coin collectors’ market here.

Stroll through Plaza Mayor into the charming Hapsburg section of town, known to the locals as the Austrian area.

In 1516 Carlos V rose to power and the Hapsburg reign flourished for almost two hundred years in Spain.

Plaza Mayor is at Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain.

In the 9th century, the Islamic Kingdom of Toledo built a defensive fort on the site where Palacio Real now stands.

As European palaces go, Palacio Real holds its own.

The current palace was built in Italianate baroque style by the Bourbons in the 18th century and served as the royal residence until 1931.

It’s a massive monument to a bygone royal era; with over 2800 rooms, although only 50 are open to visitors.

Highlights include the opulent red and gold Throne Room and a Gala Dining room that seats thousands.

The Royal Armoury displays some intriguing sets of armour that belonged to the various rulers of Spain.

The rooms of Carlos II feature a vault fresco known as The Apotheosis of Trajan by Anton Raphael Mengs.

The Gasparini Room has a delicate stucco ceiling and walls of embroidered silk. Watch the changing-of-the-guard on the first Wednesday of every month.

The Royal Palace of Madrid is at Calle de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain.

The Prado Museum is one of the top Spain landmarks to visit.

With over 8600 paintings, Museo Nacional del Prado is one of Europe’s best art museums.

The museum has an impressive array of Spanish paintings that – over the centuries – graced the walls of Spain’s royal palaces for the private viewing of the royal family.

Most of these royal paintings were never shown to the public and the court painters remained unknown until the Prado Museum collection was formed to display these national treasures.

There are 12th-century Romanesque murals, Renaissance works by El Greco and over 100 works by Goya, as well as paintings by Ribera, Murillo and Velazquez.

There are also works by French, Flemish, Dutch, German and Italian painters and sculptors.

The Prado Museum is the jewel in Madrid’s crown and a museum you should make a point of visiting, even if you aren’t a fan of museums.

The number of masterpieces on display is mind-boggling and the talent of the artists is absolutely inspiring.

It makes you wonder how so much talent could have ever existed in the past.

The gallery houses major European masterpieces, among them are Goya’s The Third of May, The Annunciation by Fra Angelico and Ribera’s Jacob’s Dream.

Fans of Harry Bosch (the detective in Michael Connelly’s novels who was named after the European master) will love seeing The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymous Bosch.

Of course, besides the staple masterpieces, the museum also has exhibitions, such as a showcase of the works of Luis de Morales (one of the most significant Spanish Renaissance masters).

Museo Nacional del Prado is at Calle de Ruiz de Alarcon, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain.

Plaza de Toros is a famous Spain landmark.

While bullfighting is a controversial sport in Spain today, it remains an undeniable part of Spanish history.

The best time to see a bullfight in Madrid is during the Feria de San Isidro (Festival of San Isidro) that takes place from mid-May through to June.

During the festival, there are fights every evening.

The festival has a variety of different fights including bullfights with novillos (young bulls), rejones (bullfights on horseback) and Goyesca fights (in period costume).

At other times, regular bullfights occur from March to October, generally on Sunday evenings at the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas.

Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas is at Calle de Alcalá, 237, 28028 Madrid, Spain

Head to Santiago Bernabeu Stadium and join the crowds cheering for soccer star David Beckham and celebrity team Real Madrid.

Real Madrid recently beat Manchester United for the title of the world’s richest football club.

This 100 plus year-old team were the 2002 European Champions and have a massive fan base.

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is at Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid, Spain. 

On 11 March 2004, terrorist bombs ripped through a number of trains heading into Atocha railway station killing 191 people.

On the second floor or the station, there is an area which is dedicated as a shrine to the victims of that bombing.

Visitors can leave hand-silhouettes and messages on one of the graffiti remembrance tubes that hang from the ceiling.

The station itself is worth a look for its iron-and-glass architecture that houses a 2,000-square-meter botanical garden.

Moist air is pumped into the centre of the station so that giant ferns, palms and massive banana trees are able to thrive next to lily-filled ponds.

Pop into the café beneath the rainforest for a drink and a snack.

Madrid Atocha Railway Station is at 28045 Madrid, Spain.

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Intangible Landmarks of Spain

Although Spain has many breathtakingly beautiful monuments that are landmarks across the country, thousands of years of history also means there are some amazing cultural landmarks to experience.  

The Flamingo dance is one of the cultural landmarks in Spain.

Soak in the atmosphere and passionate rhythms of the Flamenco at one of Madrid’s many Tablao Flamencos.

Although the Flamenco originated in southern Spain, some of the best artists continue to flock to Madrid establishing this city as one of Spain’s popular Flamenco hotspots.

Flamenco consists of three artistic elements – the singing, the dancing and the guitar performance.

While there is a basic structure for the performers to follow, much of the Flamenco is an improvised form of expression centred on the singing.

Corral de la Moreria (tel: +91 365 8446) has a nightly event with foot-stomping performances that convey that passionate Spanish soul.

This well-known Flamenco establishment features some of the best Flamenco performers, as well as an impressive list of international dignitaries and famous patrons.

You never know which famous person you might spot at the table next to you; recent notaries include George Bush, Samuel Jackson, Hugh Grant and Demi Moore.

Act like a local and nibble your way through the city’s tapas bars.

You’ll fill up on a huge variety of delicious titbits like albondigas (meatballs), bacalao (cod), chorizo (spicy sausage), jamon (ham) and tortilla espanola (potato and onion omelette).

The practice of eating tapas originated in the 18th century and is a way of life for the people of Madrid.

There is a large concentration of tapas bars in the old part of town around the Villa y Corte area.

Favourite local haunts can be found around La Latina, Lavapies, Chueca and Malasana.

How to travel around Madrid: 

One of the best ways to get around the city is to buy a two-day ticket for the hop-on-hop-off bus network. These bright red open-top double-decker buses follow three routes (historical, modern and monument) that cover most of the city’s main sights.

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11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller.

Photo by Francesco Lastrucci

It’s true: Spain is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This may surprise those who mostly associate the country with its golden beaches and flamenco (as I did before my nine-month stint in La Rioja), but the Iberian Peninsula kingdom comprises 17 autonomous communities—like Madrid and Andalucia—and they encompass a wide spectrum of cultures. Throughout Spain you can come across people like the Basques and the Catalonians, who speak their own language, and landscapes that span centuries-old palaces, mountain peaks, and even valleys full of cherry blossoms in the spring.

So yes, absolutely dig into that platter of paella in Valencia to experience Spanish culture. But think about visiting these 10 other places, too. Because while many of the best places to visit in Spain are well-loved, some offer a side to the country that may surprise you.

1. Mallorca

Balearic Islands

Off Spain’s eastern coast is the island of Mallorca, a prime example of Spain’s mixed history. Here, travelers can find traces of its former Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupants, like the 800-year-old La Seu , a Gothic sandstone cathedral, or the Arab baths in Palma de Mallorca’s historic center . But to limit your stay to the island’s capital is to miss some of Mallorca’s most beautiful landscapes. Beyond its clear-water beaches, the 1,405-square-mile island has dozens of designated cycling routes and underground cave systems that have hosted pirates and Moorish soldiers. Take in the beauty of the island on a hike up the UNESCO-recognized Puig Major , Mallorca’s tallest mountain at 4,711 feet.

The stairs out of Madrid ’s Sol metro station put travelers in the midst of the bustle of Spain’s capital. Appropriately located in the heart of the country, Madrid is home to some of the best museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The 16th-century Plaza Mayor —which has been the setting of everything from fiestas to executions—is evidence that it still keeps its ties to tradition and history. Grab a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) in one of the plaza’s nearby storefronts or slip out of the city’s nonstop energy in the 350-acre Retiro Park, which is within walking distance from the Museo Nacional del Prado and Puerta de Alcalá. Just don’t siesta too much and miss out on any tapas bar crawls you have planned for the evening.

3. Barcelona

This coastal city takes an unabashed approach when it comes to differentiating itself from the rest of Spain, from the Catalan language to the warped, bright-colored facades of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings. Whatever gives Barcelona that je ne sais quois, it’s certainly resonating. Barcelona is a magnet for people from all over the world (more than 30 percent of Barcelona’s inhabitants were born outside of Spain), drawing travelers to stay for its beaches , year-round calendar of festivals, and markets. For the first-time visitor, a walk down the three-quarter-mile Las Ramblas is a must: The tree-lined pathway leads pedestrians through kiosks, neighborhoods, and historic buildings before stopping at the Mediterranean.

Warm people, sunny days spent sipping sangria, and trees full of oranges—that relaxed, siesta-loving attitude of Spain is available in Seville. The capital of Spain’s Andalusia autonomous community still bears plenty of marks from its past under the Moors. One of the most beautiful places to explore its history is the Royal Alcázar of Seville, an 11th-century palace sporting walled gardens and geometric, patterned arches that have been featured in Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia . Stop and smell the jasmine at Plaza de España, and walk along the curving wall featuring 52 colorful mosaics that depict all of Spain’s provinces.

5. Picos de Europa National Park

Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León

While lounge-worthy stretches of beach characterize Spain’s south, Picos de Europa National Park is a prime example of the green, dramatic landscapes that dominate the north. The 250-square-mile national park was the first established by the Spanish government in 1918 and includes alpine peaks, meadows, and lakes that feel similar to landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Explore the jagged edges of the Cantabrian Mountains along the 7.5-mile long Ruta del Cares , or look for local wildlife like the roe deer and Egyptian vultures.

6. Valle del Jerte

Extremadura

Looking for a cherry blossom alternative to the crowds of enthusiasts in Japan and Washington, D.C.? Head to Extremadura, the Spanish region that borders Portugal between March and April (timing the cherry blossoming is a bit of a guessing game), when Valle del Jerte bursts in a sea of white as 2 million cherry trees bloom. Flower enthusiasts can tour the 144-square-mile area by taking a road trip down Spain’s N-110 road, which winds through the Cáceres province and crosses through the region’s 11 small villages known as pueblos . Come at the right time and you may be able to catch the flower festival as the villages celebrate the season with markets and exhibitions.

7. San Sebastian

Basque Country

The origins of the Basque people are up for debate, but the ethnic group—spread throughout southern France and Spain’s eponymous autonomous community—has developed a culture unlike the rest of the country. San Sebastián is one of the cities found in Basque Country, where Euskara is spoken on the streets—forgo the hola and greet people with kaixo —and the steep cliff sides resemble those in Ireland or Scotland. Indulge in small plates known as pintxos of prepared cod and local bounty, but make some reservations too, because the food scene here is top notch: 10 Michelin-starred restaurants are spread throughout this city of 190,000.

8. Cudillero

Many of Spain’s big cities attract tourists from around the world, so much so that its beautiful small villages can be overlooked. Cudillero is one of the nearly 20,000 pueblos found throughout Spain, and a lovely one at that: Located by the Bay of Biscay, this fishing village of around 5,000 people is a masterclass of slow living by the sea. Colorful, orange-roofed houses dot the hillsides, which also serve as vantage points for panoramas of both town and ocean.

9. Rioja wine region

La Rioja, Basque Country, and Navarre

Spread across three different autonomous communities, the Rioja wine region is known for its tempranillo grapes, which produce the tannic, full-bodied red varietals of the same name. The region’s ideal grape-growing conditions are thanks to the Ebro River, which snakes throughout the area’s rolling hills. Admire the scenery with a glass in hand and learn about winemaking at a winery, known locally as a bodega. Some of the most attractive, like Lopez de Heredia, are in pueblos like Laguardia and Haro; the latter hosts an annual wine festival in the summer.

10. Santiago de Compostela

During the Middle Ages, people walked from the south of France to the northeastern tip of Spain as a way to show faith, establishing a 500-mile route known as the Camino de Santiago. Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, is the endpoint of this pilgrimage and punctuates the end of the trip with its Romanesque-style cathedral. Even if you’re not a pilgrim, this city is a worthwhile place for exploring religious history and some of the dishes Galicia has to offer, from regional cheeses to seaside delicacies like percebes (aka barnacles).

11. Valencia

Despite being more than 2,000 years old, Valencia is still innovating toward a sustainable future as the European Green Capital 2024 (in addition to being one of the places featured in AFAR’s Where to Go in 2024 list). If you stop by the city, skip the usual systems of transport and pick up your bike and walking shoes. There are more than 125 miles of bike lanes throughout the city, and dedicated green spaces like Turia Garden make it easy to walk off that paella. For a piece of tradition, stop by during March, when larger-than-life floats descend on the city for the Las Fallas celebration.

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