Lonely Planet Spain

By Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet’s local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Spain.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from strolling Barcelona's maze of medieval alleys in the Barri Gòtic to watching an evening flamenco show in the Sacromonte caves of Granada, and winery-hopping around La Rioja.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Spain travel guide:

• Our classic guidebook format provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
• Updated with an all new structure and design so you can navigate Spain and connect experiences together with ease
• Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights and unravel the imaginations of Salvador Dalí at the Teatre-Museu Dalí; dance the night away at Seville's Feria de Abril fiesta; and experience the Unesco-listed Ciudad Monumental in Cáceres
• Special features on the local food scene and outdoor adventure 
• Expert local recommendations on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
• Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel 
• Connect with Spanish culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions 
• Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps including a pull out map of Spain
• Covers Madrid, Castilla y León, Toledo & Castilla-La Mancha, Barcelona, Catalonia & the Costa Brava, Aragón, Basque Country, Navarra & La Rioja, Cantabria & Asturias, Santiago de Compostela & Galicia, Extremadura, Seville & Andalucía's Hill Towns, Granada & South Coast Andalucía, Balearic Islands, Valencia & Murcia

eBook Features: (Best viewed on tablet devices and smartphones) Add notes to personalise your guidebook experience Seamlessly flip between pages Bookmarks and speedy search capabilities get you to key pages in a flash Embedded links to recommendations’ websites Zoom-in on maps and images

Create a trip that’s uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary country with Lonely Planet's Spain.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lonely Planet
• Release date: Feb 1, 2025
• ISBN: 9781837587360

Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet has gone on to become the world’s most successful travel publisher, printing over 100 million books. The guides are printed in nine different languages; English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Chinese and Korean. Lonely Planet enables curious travellers to experience the world and get to the heart of a place via guidebooks and eBooks to almost every destination on the planet, an award-winning website and magazine, a range of mobile and digital travel products and a dedicated traveller community.

Book preview

Front CoverLonely Planet Logo

Spain

MapHow To Use This eBook

Contents

Plan Your Trip

The Journey Begins Here

Spain Map

Our Picks

Regions & Cities

Itineraries

When to Go

Get Prepared for Spain

Hiking & Walking in Spain

The Food Scene

The Outdoors

The Guide

Madrid

Plaza Mayor & Royal Madrid

La Latina & Lavapiés

Sol, Santa Ana & Huertas

El Retiro & the Art Museums

Malasaña & Chueca

Salamanca

Outside Central Madrid

Castilla y León

Salamanca

Beyond Salamanca

Segovia & Ávila

Beyond Segovia & Ávila

Astorga & León

Beyond Astorga & León

Toledo & Castilla-La Mancha

Toledo

Beyond Toledo

Cuenca

Beyond Cuenca

Valdepeñas

Beyond Valdepeñas

Barcelona

La Rambla & Barri Gòtic

El Raval

La Ribera & El Born

Barceloneta, the Waterfront & El Poblenou

L’Eixample & La Sagrada Família

Gràcia & Park Güell

Camp Nou, Pedralbes & La Zona Alta

Montjuïc, Poble Sec & Sant Antoni

Catalonia & the Costa Brava

Cadaqués

Beyond Cadaqués

Girona

Beyond Girona

Tarragona

Beyond Tarragona

Aragón

Zaragoza

Valles de Hecho & Ansó

Beyond Valles de Hecho & Ansó

Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido

Beyond Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido

Albarracín

Beyond Albarracín

Basque Country, Navarra & La Rioja

Bilbao

Beyond Bilbao

Donostia-San Sebastián

Beyond Donostia-San Sebastián

Pamplona

Beyond Pamplona

Vitoria-Gasteiz

Beyond Vitoria-Gasteiz

Cantabria & Asturias

Picos de Europa

Beyond Picos de Europa

Santander

Beyond Santander

Gijón

Beyond Gijón

Santiago de Compostela & Galicia

Santiago de Compostela

Cabo Fisterra

Beyond Cabo Fisterra

A Coruña

Beyond A Coruña

Rías Baixas

Inland Galicia

Extremadura

Cáceres

Beyond Cáceres

Mérida

Beyond Mérida

Seville & Andalucía’s Hill Towns

Seville

Beyond Seville

Córdoba

Beyond Córdoba

Cádiz

Beyond Cádiz

Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema

Beyond Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema

Huelva & Lugares Colombinos

Beyond Huelva & Lugares Colombinos

Gibraltar

Granada & South Coast Andalucía

Granada

Beyond Granada

Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada

Almería

Beyond Almería

Málaga

Beyond Málaga

Ronda

Beyond Ronda

Úbeda

Beyond Úbeda

Valencia & Murcia

Valencia

Beyond Valencia

Dénia

Beyond Dénia

Murcia

Beyond Murcia

Cartagena

Beyond Cartagena

Balearic Islands

Mallorca

Menorca

Ibiza

Formentera

Toolkit

Arriving

Getting Around

Money

Accommodation

Family Travel

Health & Safe Travel

Food, Drink & Nightlife

Responsible Travel

LGBTIQ+ Travellers

Accessible Travel

How to Explore Spain’s Wineries

Nuts & Bolts

Language

Storybook

A History of Spain in 15 Places

Meet the Spanish

Wine For All Seasons

Walking to Santiago

How Paradores Foster Sustainable

This Book

SPAIN

THE JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

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Església de Sant Joan and Plaça de la Virreina, Barcelona | MARC SOLER/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO ©

Growing up in southern Andalucía, blissful beaches, irresistible tapas, a fun-loving attitude and seemingly endless sunshine were part of my day-to-day life. Even after decades of living here, I savour every second, from the buzz of the city squares as the night kicks off to the fiery autumn sunsets over the rural hills to the relaxed evening atmosphere on the beach once the day’s crowds have gone. It’s easy to see what draws so many visitors to Spain from across the world, and why many never leave. Beyond the fabulous food, thrilling monuments and twinkling seaside, nothing beats the Spanish zest for life – and it’s still best appreciated over an arroz (rice) and a tinto de verano (red wine with lemonade) on a dreamy beach or while crammed into a busy tapas bar for a slice of tortilla.

Isabella Noble

@isabellamnoble

Isabella is a British-Australian travel journalist raised in Andalucía, now based between Barcelona and Málaga. She’s written around 50 Lonely Planet titles. Isabella wrote the Barcelona, Plan Your Trip, Toolkit and History chapters.

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My favourite experience is wandering through Gràcia’s village-like squares and grabbing a vermouth on any old terraza, before walking up to one of Barcelona’s beautiful hillside viewpoints (perhaps Park Güell or the Carretera de les Aigües).

WHO GOES WHERE

Our writers and experts choose the places which, for them, define Spain.

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NORADOA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Somehow Eduardo Chillida’s sculptures and the way they sit in their surroundings seem to capture the essence of the Basque Country. It’s mesmerising to watch the waves against his Peine del Viento in Donostia-San Sebastián. But my favourite place to see his work is the gardens of Chillida Leku, where sculptures interact with the landscape just as Chillida envisioned.

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Isabel Albiston

@isabel_albiston

Isabel is a travel writer who spends as much time as she can in the Basque Country. She wrote the Basque Country, Navarra & La Rioja chapter.

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MAKASANA PHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana rises from the southwest all the way to the northern Cap de Formentor. I love driving its pinnacle-topping ribbons of road, then dropping into villages where life’s been ticking along for millennia. Then there’s the cove-lined seafront, where trails lead to cerulean seas. Creative people round it all out, making art and delicious meals.

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Alexis Averbuck

@alexisaverbuck

Alexis paints and writes about her adventures for Lonely Planet, National Geographic UK and other outlets. She wrote the Balearic Islands chapter.

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MILOSK50/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Everywhere I go in Extremadura manages to surprise me every single time. Perhaps it’s how Cáceres lives in harmony with its Roman, Arab and Catholic past, and yet how it all fits to create a strong identity. Or how strolling in Mérida feeds my nostalgia and catapults me to a bygone age in Rome.

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Federica Bocco

@fedaenerys

Federica travels out of passion and writes out of natural necessity, but sometimes wishes it was the other way around. She wrote the Extremadura chapter.

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KARNAVALL22/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

There’s something magical about arriving in Cadaqués, whether you take the curving road down one of the Cap de Creus’ surreal valleys, or approach from the sea, waiting for the town skyline to emerge suddenly behind the steep cliffs. I could spend days here walking the waterfront and trying new beaches for bathing in the sun and soaking up the smell of the pines.

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Jamie Ditaranto

@jamieditaranto

Jamie is a professional travel writer living in Barcelona. She wrote the Catalonia & the Costa Brava chapter.

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HEMIS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO ©

There’s something delightfully timeless about hiking the Via de la Plata south of Salamanca. Known to Roman legions (and Iberian tribes before them), this trail was ancient long before the first pilgrimage was even considered. The rolling hills and chestnut forests around La Calzada de Béjar offer idyllic walking country that’s hard to find further south.

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Mark Eveleigh

markeveleigh.com

Mark’s most recent book is Vagabond, the story of his 1225km solo hike from Gibraltar to Spain’s northern tip. He wrote the Castilla y León and Cantabria & Asturias chapters.

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MATYAS REHAK/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Too vast to ever get truly swamped with tourists, Plaza Mayor in the oldest part of Madrid still retains its original character. I particularly like it at dusk when its spiky towers cut sharp black shapes into the skyline and I’m whisked back to when it was a grand arena for the Spanish court. During the Fiestas de San Isidro in May, its walls ring with music and the atmosphere is fantastic.

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Felicity Hughes

@themakingofmadrid

Felicity is a freelance journalist and author of the history blog The Making of Madrid. She wrote the Madrid chapter.

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SHEE HENG CHONG/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

I never get tired of visiting Granada, a 90-minute drive from my house. I love night visits to the Alhambra’s 14th-century Palacios Nazaríes – for me, one of the loveliest buildings in the world, with achingly beautiful Arabic calligraphy etched into the palace walls and splendid tilework – and there’s always something delicious to discover on Granada’s dining scene.

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Anna Kaminski

@ackaminski

Anna is a travel journalist specialising in the Spanish-speaking world who lives in La Axarquía, Andalucía. She wrote the Granada & South Coast Andalucía and Seville & Andalucía’s Hill Towns chapters.

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JEFF WHYTE/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

The weekly shopping can be a bore, but I spring out of bed at the chance to potter around Valencia’s Mercado Central. I arrive as early as I can bear; without the crowds it’s an utter joy. I’ve sussed out the best stalls: lemons from the guy who grows them himself, cheesecake from the Michelin-starred chef and springy sourdough from the bakery. When I’m feeling particularly naughty, I do the shopping with a cold beer in my hand.

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Lucy Lovell

@lucy.ann.lovell

Lucy is a Valencia-based freelance writer and author of The 500 Hidden Secrets of Valencia. She wrote the Valencia & Murcia chapter.

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LUKASZ JANYST/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

I love mountains, and of Spain’s many dramatic ranges, the Pyrenees are the most spectacular. They reach their scenic peak in the Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido with its fabulous variety from towering cliffs to plunging canyons, limpid mountain streams and exquisite waterfalls. A paradise for walkers and anyone who appreciates scenic grandeur.

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John Noble

@johnnoble11

John is a travel writer who’s lived in Spain for three decades and explored it from Cabo Ortegal to Cap de Creus to Cabo de Gata. He wrote the Aragón and Santiago de Compostela & Galicia chapters.

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VALERY BARETA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

I’m an architecture lover and a history buff, and Toledo stole my heart. The city of three cultures wears its long and complicated history on its sleeves, refusing to hide where it went wrong while celebrating what it did well. You don’t have to look far to find connections to just about every continent, either in the buildings or in the cuisine.

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Nanjala Nyabola

@nanjalaone

Nanjala travels regularly, climbs mountains often, occasionally rides motorcycles and loves getting to write about it. She wrote the Toledo & Castilla-La Mancha chapter.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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Natalia Diaz

@nataliadi8z; kusinamadrid.com

Natalia is a journalist, food blogger and co-founder of the Chefugee project. She works as an editor for a sustainability agency and travels to remote destinations to explore sustainable agriculture initiatives. She contributed to the Madrid chapter.

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Esme Fox

@esmefoxy, www.esmefox.com

Esme is a Spain-based freelance travel writer who has authored various LP guidebooks to the country. She contributed to the Málaga section and Barcelona chapter.

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Vesna Maric

@vesnamarx

Vesna writes travel guides, literary fiction and non-fiction, and essays. She contributed to the Madrid chapter.

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Paul Stafford

@paulrstafford

Paul is based in Birmingham, UK, but can usually be found anywhere that is not at all like Birmingham. When not entangled in a web of words and pictures, he is making and releasing music as one half of the rock duo Phwoar. He contributed to the Andalucía chapters.

Country Map

VAMOS A LA PLAYA

From sun-baked Mediterranean sands to the wild northwestern cliffs, Spain’s 5000km-long coastline packs enough beauty for years of exploring. In summer, the entire country flocks to the coast, and hitting la playa (the beach) is a favourite national activity – whether you go for the rugged coves of the Costa Brava, the Atlantic beauty of the Costa de la Luz, the surf-loving sands of the north or the seductive strands dotted all over the Balearics.

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Kitesurfing, Tarifa | NICK STUBBS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Beach Season

The main beach season, with lifeguards on watch and all services open, is mid-June to mid-September, but in many places it’s warm enough to swim well outside these months.

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FRANZ-MARC FREI/GETTY IMAGES ©

Urban Strands

Many of Spain’s coastal cities have spectacular beaches, including Cádiz, Málaga, Santander, A Coruña, Gijón, Valencia and Barcelona. Our top pick? Donostia-San Sebastián.

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MARC BRUXELLE/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Surf Scene

Northern Spain is a surfer’s dream, particularly the wild beaches of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia. Tarifa (Andalucía) is internationally renowned for kitesurfing, windsurfing and more.

BEST BEACH EXPERIENCES

Soak up the kitesurfy vibe on the beautiful blonde Atlantic beaches of the Costa de la Luz around 1 Tarifa.

Seek out sparkling cales (coves) all along the Costa Brava, but especially near 2 Cadaqués and 2 Begur.

Discover Europe’s answer to the Caribbean in blissful 3 Formentera, for turquoise waves washing onto pearly white sands.

Roam around the untouched coastal paradise of 4 Cabo de Gata in Almería, whose gold-sand beaches are some of Andalucía’s best.

Sail out to Galicia’s national-park-protected 5 Illas Cíes, with their alabaster beaches, where camping is the only accommodation.

GLORIOUS GASTRONOMY

There’s a reason the whole world knows all about tapas. Spain is a world-leading gastronomic destination, with immense regional culinary variety. The traditional essence of Spanish cooking is to take the best ingredients and interfere with them as little as possible. And the best ingredients are always local, whether ham from the western hills, seafood from Galicia’s rocky coast, tangy cheeses and grilled meats from green northern valleys or olive oil from the plains of Andalucía.

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Zamburiñas (scallops), A Coruña | DASOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Market Marvels

Some of Spain’s most enthralling food spots are city markets with their own lively counters, tapas bars and restaurants – it doesn’t get more market-fresh than this.

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FREEPROD33/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Tapas Culture

Bite-sized tapas and pintxos (Basque tapas) are key to Spain’s culinary scene – almost an art form in themselves. In parts of Andalucía, free tapas arrive with every drink.

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MISTERSTOCK/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Food Tours

All over Spain there’s now a wealth of terrific food tours and cooking classes you can join, on which local experts introduce you to their region’s delicious specialities.

BEST FOOD EXPERIENCES

Dive into the art of tapeo in Andalucía’s capital Seville, where favourite tapas bars include 1 Casa Morales and 1 Antigua Taberna de las Escobas.

Get a taste of the Basque Country’s celebrated culinary creativity on a pintxo-bar crawl around 2 Donostia-San Sebastián.

Savour the Michelin-starred genius of Catalonia’s cutting-edge gastronomy, perhaps at Barcelona’s 3 Disfrutar or Girona’s 3 El Celler de Can Roca.

Sample Galician seafood – one of Spain’s greatest gastronomic thrills – anywhere along the coast, especially 4 A Coruña.

Hunt down the perfect paella in its Valencia homeland of 5 La Albufera, where you can dine overlooking the rice crops.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

From the snowy Pyrenees in the north to Almería’s arid desertscapes in the south, the variety and beauty of Spain’s landscapes are endless – and so are the outdoor adventure opportunities. The hiking is superb (from thrilling peak summits to leisurely coastal walks), and options abound to get close to nature by descending canyons, climbing cliffs, cycling paths, riding horses and paddling across the sea. It seems there’s an adventure for every month of the year here.

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Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido | ANNA KAMINSKI/LONELY PLANET ©

Hiking

Spain is a walker’s wonderland, whether you’re scaling peaks in the Pyrenees, the Sierra Nevada or the Picos de Europa (pictured), or walking between lyrical villages at lower altitudes.

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MIGUEL CASTANS MONTEAGUDO/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Adventure Sports

Canyoning (pictured), caving, paragliding, abseiling, rock climbing, horse riding and via ferrata abound all over the country, while winter brings skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

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ANNA KAMINSKI/LONELY PLANET ©

Into the Waves

With both Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, Spain is big on water sports – kitesurfing, windsurfing, wingfoiling and regular surfing; kayaking and paddleboarding; diving and snorkelling...

BEST OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Try everything from kayaking down the Río Sella to hiking past high-altitude lakes to winter ski-touring in the 1 Picos de Europa.

Hit the trails in Aragón’s 2 Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido for some of the Pyrenees’ most spectacular walking country.

Tackle the thrilling hiking trails in Granada’s 3 Sierra Nevada, including mainland Spain’s tallest peak: 3479m-high Mulhacén.

Head to the Catalan Pyrenees for hiking in the 4 Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici or winter skiing in the 4 Val d’Aran.

Go cycling, hiking or horse riding between Andalucian white villages in Cádiz’ 5 Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema.

ART WORLD

Art takes centre stage in the country that brought the world Picasso, Dalí, Goya, Velázquez, Miró, Tàpies and countless other greats, and you’ll find major galleries in almost every urban hub. Madrid is Spain’s art-world queen, with its show-stopping ‘golden triangle’, while Barcelona, Bilbao and Málaga are also renowned for their unrivalled art museums. Often the buildings themselves are just as much masterpieces as the collections within, such as Bilbao’s Guggenheim.

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Museo del Prado, Madrid | ALEX SEGRE/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO ©

Gallery Tours

The sprawling top galleries can feel overwhelming in their immensity; join a guided tour for a deep-dive into each collection’s highlights.

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JOSEPH SOHM/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Street Art

These days plenty of local Spanish art happens on the street. There are particularly lively street-art scenes in Barcelona, Valencia (pictured), Granada, Málaga, Salamanca and Madrid.

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BLAKE HORN/LONELY PLANET ©

Madrid’s New Museum

Launched in 2023, the Galería de las Colecciones Reales ranks among Spain’s most exciting art-world arrivals in recent years, including magnificent Siglo de Oro (Golden Age) works.

BEST ART EXPERIENCES

Seek out celebrated masterpieces and lesser-known jewels at Madrid’s 1 Museo del Prado, then hop between other galleries.

Unravel the surrealist imagination of Salvador Dalí at the 2 Teatre-Museu Dalí in Figueres, before following his trail to 2 Cadaqués.

Combine the marvellous 3 Fundació Joan Miró with the spectacular 3 Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya in Barcelona’s Montjuïc.

Step into the world of Francisco de Goya on a spin around 4 Zaragoza and 4 Fuendetodos; there are further Goya delights in Madrid’s galleries.

Follow in Picasso’s footsteps in Málaga, where highlights include the house where the artist was born and the 5 Museo Picasso Málaga.

FLAMENCO RHYTHMS

Born in the soulful Cádiz-Jerez-Seville pocket of Andalucía, flamenco emerged from the mingling of the region’s oppressed Roma, Moorish and Jewish communities. The barrios (neighbourhoods) of San Miguel and Santiago (Jerez), Santa María (Cádiz) and Triana (Seville) are legendary flamenco neighbourhoods. It’s a fiery, spontaneous art, best enjoyed in a local bar, with everyone around you shouting olé!

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JOSE_ESCUDERO/shutterstock ©

Andalucian Heartland

It’s in the south of Spain that you’ll find flamenco’s beating pulse, with lively festivals, peñas (private clubs), tablaos (professional shows) and more.

Beyond Andalucía

Home to many Andalucian migrants, Barcelona has a rich flamenco scene; catch the Ciutat Flamenco festival. Find Madrid’s flamenco soul at Corral de la Morería.

BEST FLAMENCO EXPERIENCES

Catch a performance at Jerez’ tabancos, peñas and tablaos, perhaps 1 Tabanco El Pasaje or 1 Tablao La Bailaora.

Hunt down flamenco in Granada – whose Roma community is an integral part of the story – at 2 Peña La Platería.

See a soulful show in Seville at 3 La Casa del Flamenco, or take a dance, song or guitar class at 3 Taller Flamenco.

Soak up passionate performances in Cádiz, one of flamenco’s homes, at renowned 4 Peña Flamenca La Perla.

Head to Seville or Málaga for the acclaimed 5 Bienal de Flamenco, which swaps between the two cities.

URBAN THRILLS

There’s no better way to settle into Spanish life than by lingering over a café con leche on a lively city plaza, feeling the ebb and flow of the urban buzz as the hours roll on. Look beyond big-hitters Madrid and Barcelona and spend time wandering local city markets, shops, restaurants, green spaces and spectacular monuments.

Big Two

There’s a reason Madrid (pictured) and Barcelona top everyone’s must-see lists for Spain, with their unbeatable food-and-drink scenes, glorious galleries, awe-inspiring architecture and distinct identities.

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DENNIS MACDONALD/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Food Scene

One of the great joys of Spain’s cities are their thriving gastronomic scenes. Ask about local specialities and top food streets.

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BEARFOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

UNESCO Cities

From culture-rich Córdoba to ancient Eivissa, 15 cities across Spain hold UNESCO World Heritage status for their historical and architectural importance.

BEST CITY EXPERIENCES

Go cycling, walking or running along the converted 1 Turia riverbed (now peaceful parkland) in Valencia.

Weave through the Ciudad Monumental in 2 Cáceres; this Extremaduran city has an exquisite old town.

Get lost in Seville’s 3 Barrio de Santa Cruz, among whitewashed streets, flower-filled patios and fabulous monuments.

Wander between ancient plazas, alleys and tapas bars in 4 Salamanca, Castilla y León’s spectacular historical hub.

Be immersed in the long past and arts-loving culture of 5 Palma de Mallorca, the Balearics’ dazzling coastal capital.

HISTORY HIGHS

It’s said that whenever you try to build something in Spain, remnants of the past emerge from the ground. With cities founded as far back as Phoenician times (Cartagena, Cádiz, Eivissa), delving into Spanish history is one of the great joys of any visit here. Today, the magnificent buildings left behind by various cultures live on as dazzling relics of Spain’s bygone eras – some of them at a time-warp standstill, others still evolving centuries later.

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La Sagrada Família, Barcelona | ROSAMAR/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Roman Spain

Spain’s finest Roman ruins lie in lively Mérida, once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania; Tarragona (pictured) and Cartagena are other Roman highlights.

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JOAN_BAUTISTA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Moorish Times

From the magical Alhambra to Seville’s Giralda (pictured), Andalucía’s great monuments have their roots in the Moorish era, when this was Al-Andalus. In Zaragoza, don’t miss the spectacular Aljafería.

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WH_PICS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Glorious Cathedrals

Most of Spain’s cities are centred on a spectacular cathedral, many of which took centuries to build and flaunt an eye-catching fusion of architectural styles.

BEST HISTORY EXPERIENCES

Marvel at the immense beauty of Andalucía’s two greatest Moorish-era monuments: Granada’s 1 Alhambra and Córdoba’s 1 Mezquita.

Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims who have travelled to the cathedral in 2 Santiago de Compostela since medieval times.

Dive into Barcelona history through its Modernista architecture, starting with Gaudí’s swirling 3 Casa Batlló and 3 La Sagrada Família.

Devote time to the ancient streets of 4 Toledo, once the capital of the Kingdom of Castilla and known as ‘the city of three cultures’.

Stroll through the historical heart of Spain’s capital 5 Madrid, from medieval plazas to tapas bars going back centuries.

FIESTA TIME

At the core of Spanish identity is a deep love for having a wonderfully good time, as the country’s endless fiestas (parties) show. From hotly awaited city-wide festivals to local celebrations in the tiniest of villages, people love to dance, drink, eat and celebrate in the streets. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s bound to be a local fiesta kicking off, and everyone’s invited.

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Sculptures, Las Fallas | IVAN MARC/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Religious Celebrations

Many of Spain’s most famous festivals have ancient religious roots, often tied to an important element of community spirit.

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DARIA ZELENSKA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Summer Festivals

Summer is festival season, with lively music gatherings like Barcelona’s Primavera Sound and Castellón’s Festival Internacional de Benicàssim, along with some of Europe’s top Pride celebrations.

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19BPRODUCTION/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Food & Drink Fun

From cheeses and hams to olive oil and saffron, Spain celebrates its love of food (and wine) with a raft of dedicated festivals.

BEST FESTIVAL EXPERIENCES

Feel the solemn beauty of 1 Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Andalucía, with the best processions held in Seville, Málaga and Granada.

Soak up the atmosphere in El Rocío, where pilgrims arrive on horseback, in carriages or on foot during the 2 Romería del Rocío.

Gaze in awe at the fireworks, bonfires and giant papier-mâché statues that pop up for Valencia’s 3 Las Fallas.

Time your visit for 4 vendimia (grape harvest) in September – from Jerez to La Rioja, many wine regions throw a big fiesta.

Drink in magnificent flower-filled courtyards in Córdoba during the vibrant spring 5 Fiesta de los Patios de Córdoba.

WILD WATCH

Spain is one of the top places in Europe to (responsibly) see wild creatures in their natural habitats. Many walking routes offer the opportunity to spot mammals such as ibex, chamois or deer along the way. Birdwatchers delight in sighting huge raptors and other creatures. If you’re lucky, you might see wild bears in Asturias or Iberian lynx in Andalucía.

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Iberian lynx | ANTONIO LIEBANA/WWW.ANTONIOLIEBANA.ES/GETTY IMAGES ©

Rare Creatures

Spain’s brown bear, Iberian lynx and Iberian wolf excite wildlife lovers the most. Whales and dolphins swim the waters off Tarifa. Gibraltar has Europe’s only primate, the Barbary macaque.

Protected Spaces

Many of Spain’s most emblematic species live in protected parques nacionales (national parks) and/or parques naturales (natural parks). Join a responsible local operator for a chance to spot them.

BEST WILDLIFE EXPERIENCES

Take a jeep tour through Andalucía’s 1 Parque Nacional de Doñana and you might spy an elusive Iberian lynx.

Head out in the 2 Parque Natural de Somiedo in Asturias for a chance to spot the rare Cantabrian brown bear.

Marvel at birds of prey soaring above Extremadura’s 3 Parque Nacional de Monfragüe, where many rare species gather.

Hike around Granada’s 4 Sierra Nevada and you’ll probably encounter some of Spain’s largest ibex population.

Ply the 5 Strait of Gibraltar’s waters on a whale-watching trip from Tarifa to see orcas, sperm whales and dolphins.

A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME

Away from the buzz of the cities and towns you enter a different Spain, where the pace of life slows to an amble and delightful little villages dot the quiet landscapes. These places of twisting streets, a plaza with a couple of bars, a church and a half-ruined castle may be among the fondest memories you’ll take home.

Pueblos Blancos

Andalucía’s famous pueblos blancos (white villages) count among the country’s most inspiring destinations, with centuries of history, spectacular locations and crumbling castles.

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JEREMY WOODHOUSE/GETTY IMAGES ©

Northern Villages

In the north, it’s all about golden-stone villages set against beautifully green landscapes, where the streets take on a completely different sparkle in the rain.

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TRABANTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

The Prettiest Villages

Such is the beauty of Spain’s many, varied villages that there’s an official list and association of them: Los Pueblos Más Bonitos de España (lospueblosmasbonitosdeespana.org).

BEST VILLAGE EXPERIENCES

Stroll the evocative old alleys of 1 Vejer de la Frontera, quite possibly the most beautiful of all the pueblos blancos in Cádiz.

Explore the honey-stone villages that have inspired creative minds for centuries in Mallorca, like 2 Deià.

Travel to whitewashed 3 Capileira, with its distinctive Moorish-origin architecture – the most magical village in Granada’s Alpujarras.

Wander cobbled streets that feel plucked from a film set in 4 Santillana del Mar (pictured), a show-stealing jewel in Cantabria.

Weave between pink-hued streets and half-timbered houses in 5 Albarracín (Aragón), one of Spain’s loveliest villages.

THE GOOD GRAPE

Spain is one of the world’s great wine producers, with over 12,000 sq km of vineyards and a staggering 70 Denominaciones de Origen (DOs; Denominations of Origin). Almost every part of the country has its own distinctive wine region(s), and local drops are an essential part of the gastronomic experience wherever you travel. In recent years, many bodegas have been making efforts to revive ancestral grapes, and there’s a strong movement towards more organic, sustainable production methods.

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Ribera del Duero vineyard | CARLOS SANCHEZ BENAYAS/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Classic Wines

Spain’s traditional wine areas start with acclaimed La Rioja. Somontano, Ribera del Duero, Rías Baixas and Ribeiro are other popular regions, though there are many more.

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DONALD THOREBY/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Other Drops

Catalonia is the home of cava, a unique champagne-like sparkling wine. Down south, Andalucía is known for its delectable sherries, produced only in the Jerez area.

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BARMALINI/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Cider Scene

The northern regions of Cantabria, Asturias and the Basque Country favour crisp ciders over wines. The local tipple is dramatically poured from up high for maximum fizz.

BEST WINE EXPERIENCES

Take a bodega tour among Catalonia’s renowned wine regions, such as 1 Penedès, the world’s cava capital.

Sip a glass of fino sherry in 2 Jerez de la Frontera, but don’t miss sherry-making neighbours Sanlúcar, El Puerto and Chiclana.

Go winery-hopping around 3 La Rioja, Spain’s premier wine region, where the architecture is often as dazzling as the local grape.

Delve into the world of Galician albariño in 4 Cambados, where wineries in ancient pazos (country mansions) mingle with cutting-edge bodegas.

Travel around Castilla y León’s respected 5 Ribera del Duero wine region to taste fine reds paired with meaty local specialities.

REGIONS & CITIES

Find the places that tick all your boxes.

ITINERARIES

Big Cities Jaunt

Allow: 7 days Distance: 780km

With a week, you’ll want to explore Spain’s three major cities, which happily are linked by high-speed train (an adventure in itself). This culture-packed journey combines the thrills of Mediterranean-hugging Barcelona and Valencia with the Spanish capital’s art-world riches and enchanting Toledo, with terrific food on show at every turn.

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POL ALBARRÁN/GETTY IMAGES ©

1

Barcelona 2 DAYS

Start with the irresistible Catalan capital, Barcelona. Explore the old medieval centre, drink in the jewels of Modernisme, laze on the Mediterranean beaches and roam around the outstanding galleries – until the tapas bars, cocktail spots and Michelin-star menus pull you away.

gif Detour: Mystical, unmissable Montserrat is an easy day trip from Barcelona. 1 day

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ELENA ROSTUNOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

2

Valencia 2 DAYS

Sunny, cycle-loving Valencia delights with its magnificent markets, golden beaches, lively green spaces, dynamic dining (there’s much more than paella here), impressive eco credentials, and local-vibe neighbourhoods like Russafa and El Carmen.

gif Extension: Catch the ferry for a few days in beachy Mallorca or Ibiza – from Valencia or Dénia – or stop over in Cuenca en route to Madrid. 2–3 days or 1 day

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CLEMMTRAVEL/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

3

Madrid 2 DAYS

You could spend weeks in Madrid and only scratch the surface, but a couple of days in the capital provides a good intro. Cycle around Retiro park, wander the renowned galleries and dive into the tapas scene and lively markets. Time-permitting, day-trip to El Escorial’s royal monastery-palace (pictured).

gif Detour: Add on one of southern Castilla y León’s historical cities, Segovia or Ávila. 1 day

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JJFARQ/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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Toledo 1 Day

Spend a night in Toledo, one of Spain’s most mesmerising cities and a former capital. Stroll around the UNESCO-listed old town, where the relics of three cultures (Christian, Jewish and Muslim) famously mingle, learn about El Greco and dig into Castilla-La Mancha’s culinary specialities.

gif Extension: Go wine tasting in Valdepeñas or birdwatching in the Parque Nacional Tablas de Las Daimiel. 1 day

ITINERARIES

Andalucía Adventure

Allow: 12–14 days Distance: 770km

This thrilling spin takes in Andalucía’s greatest charms, weaving between can’t-miss cities and beautiful villages, with plenty of opportunities to get out into wild natural spaces. Soak up the changing landscapes as you travel from the Mediterranean coast to the heights of the Sierra Nevada, and from rolling olive groves to the thundering Atlantic.

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Málaga 1–2 Days

Dive straight into sunny Málaga with a wander around the historic centre, explore the Soho street-art scene and galleries such as the Museo Picasso, and enjoy a seafood lunch by the Mediterranean. Later on, this is a tapas and nightlife haven.

gif Detour: Road-trip around La Axarquía’s whitewashed mountain villages. 1 day

2

Las Alpujarras 1–2 Days

Zip northeast to the dramatic slopes of Las Alpujarras, where you can walk between ancient villages, hike up Mulhacén, stay in charming rural hotels and drink in the mountain views while sampling some of Spain’s finest jamón (ham) and Granada’s on-the-up wines. If you’re here in winter, hit the Sierra Nevada’s ski slopes.

3

Granada 2 Days

Possibly Andalucía’s most magical city, Granada is a dream of labyrinthine streets, lively tapas bars and centuries of history. It all starts with the spectacular Alhambra, but there are also the Albayzín and Realejo quarters, flamenco scene, heritage hotels and more.

gif Detour: En route to the white villages, wander around untouristed Antequera and grab a bite to eat. Half a day

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Grazalema | Kirk Fisher/shutterstock ©

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Pueblos Blancos 2 Days

The pueblos blancos (white villages) of Cádiz province are some of Spain’s most beautiful. Explore villages like Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra and Arcos de la Frontera (all make excellent bases), and go hiking, horse riding and more in the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema.

gif Extension: Popular Ronda is a great, though larger, alternative base or day-trip destination. 1 day

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Vitalii Biliak/shutterstock ©

5

Costa de la Luz 2 Days

Base yourself in Tarifa or Vejer (but don’t miss either) for a breath of Atlantic air on Cádiz’ wind-swept Costa de la Luz. Both towns have white-walled, Moorish-origin historic cores and ever-evolving food scenes, while gorgeous sandy blonde beaches disappear into the distance along the coast.

gif Detour: Day-trip to Gibraltar and discover the Rock’s history. 1 day

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Kirk Fisher/shutterstock ©

6

Cádiz 1–2 Days

Wander through one of Europe’s oldest cities. Phoenician-founded Cádiz has enough leafy plazas, historical riches, Atlantic-washed beaches and heaving tapas bars to make you want to linger longer.

gif Detour: Sherry-loving Jerez de la Frontera and Sanlúcar de Barrameda both make fascinating stopovers en route to Seville. 1–2 days

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Kirk Fisher/shutterstock ©

7

Seville 2 Days

Zip north to the soulful Andalucian capital Seville. Dig into architectural delights such as the cathedral and the Real Alcázar, the buzzy barrios (neighbourhoods), the rich art scene, the flamenco world, and some of Spain’s finest tapas bars.

gif Extension: Easily reached by high-speed train from Seville, Córdoba is Andalucía’s other dazzling city. 1 day

ITINERARIES

North Coast Explorer

Allow: 10–12 days Distance: 900km

An entirely different world to the sun-baked Mediterranean shoreline, Spain’s green-clad, cider-sipping northern coast is one of Europe’s most spectacular. Towering sea cliffs give way to honey-gold beaches washed by Atlantic surf waves, while the cities here are lively northern hubs with buckets of soul and some of the country’s finest gastronomy.

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Donostia-San Sebastián 2 Days

One of the world’s great culinary cities, Donostia-San Sebastián is the perfect welcome to the north, with its cliff-edged beaches and buzzing old town. Go bar-hopping around the best pintxo (Basque tapas) spots, try some surfing, savour the atmosphere on lovely Playa de la Concha and hike along the lush coastline.

gif Detour: Stop to learn about sobering civil war history in Gernika. Half a day

2

Bilbao 1–2 Days

Next up is thrilling Bilbao, where the awe-inspiring Museo Guggenheim Bilboa is just the beginning. Countless other galleries command your attention, or get lost in the atmospheric Casco Viejo (among Spain’s great pintxo spots), walk or cycle along the riverfront or even hit the beach.

gif Detour: See some of Europe’s finest prehistoric cave art at Altamira. 3–4 hours

3

Picos de Europa 2 Days

Onwards to the majestic Picos de Europa, where the Cantabrian town of Potes makes a delightful base. Spain’s second-largest national park is an enthralling adventure playground – go walking, kayaking or rock climbing, visit historic Covadonga, taste northern cheeses and soar high on the cable car.

gif Detour: Drop down to the Asturian coast at lovely Ribadesella. 1 day

4

Oviedo 1 Day

Say ‘hi’ to the elegant Asturian capital Oviedo, ideally with a cider and some Picos cheeses. Then stroll around the old town, where highlights include the great Gothic cathedral and an open-air sculpture gallery.

gif Extension: Around 75km southwest of Oviedo, go hiking and bear-spotting in the serene Parque Natural de Somiedo. 1 day

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Francisco Javier Diaz/shutterstock ©

5

A Coruña 1 Day

Atlantic-side A Coruña is a thriving Galician city, crammed with delectable seafood restaurants, energetic bars, excellent museums and an entrancing historic centre, making it a great place to linger off the beaten track.

gif Detour: Take a side trip to spectacular Cabo Ortegal and the Punta da Estaca de Bares, Spain’s most northerly point. Half a day

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RudiErnst/shutterstock ©

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Costa da Morte 1–2 Days

Galicia’s mist-shrouded Costa da Morte unravels in a series of cascading sea cliffs, wind-battered lighthouses, Atlantic beaches and wonderful rural hotels, taking in magical Cabo Fisterra and the final extension of the famous Camino de Santiago.

gif Detour: Head to the Rías Baixas to discover albariño wines or sail out to Illas Cíes. 1 day

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Jokue-photography/shutterstock ©

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Santiago de Compostela 2 Days

Santiago de Compostela is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, with one of the world’s most celebrated cathedrals at its heart. Exploring the cobbled squares, feasting on fresh seafood and catching folk music sessions make the perfect final chapter.

gif Extension: Add on the Ribeira Sacra, with its wineries, monasteries and walking trails. 1–2 days

ITINERARIES

Catalan Coast & Pyrenees

Allow: 8–9 days Distance: 800km

There’s a whole lot more to Catalonia than Barcelona. This adventure-filled itinerary takes in the region’s most exquisite coastline, with its weighty art heritage and pine-fringed coves, before plunging into the vast natural expanses of the Catalan Pyrenees, where endless adventure and peaceful medieval villages await.

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Begur | MAZUR TRAVEL/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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Mark Green/shutterstock ©

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Girona 2 Days

In Girona – which has its own handy airport – echoes of the past loom around every corner, from the 14th-century cathedral to the fortified walls and the many bridges crisscrossing the Riu Onyar. Throw in excellent museums, an impressive historic centre and some of Spain’s top restaurants.

gif Detour: Find boutique hotels, buzzing restaurants and twinkling coves in hillside Begur. 1–2 days

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Unai Huizi Photography/shutterstock ©

2

Cadaqués 2 Days

Time for the pine-dusted Costa Brava, one of Spain’s most delicious shorelines, and Cadaqués, perhaps the prettiest of all its towns. Roam around the whitewashed streets, swim in the Mediterranean, hike around Cap de Creus and learn all about Dalí’s legacy at his former house.

gif Detour: Don’t miss the fantastical Teatre-Museu Dalí in Figueres. 3 hours

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Mario Valverde/shutterstock ©

3

Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici 2 Days

Worth the long journey, Catalonia’s sole national park is a wonderland of glinting lakes, distant peaks and tempting walking trails. Lively Espot makes an ideal base. It’s possible to hike across the park to Boí-Taüll in one day.

gif Detour: Find more active fun in the remote Val d’Aran. 1 day

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AlbertoGonzalez/shutterstock ©

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Vall de Boí 1 Day

One of Catalonia’s most delightful corners, the Vall de Boí hugs the western edge of the national park. Unique Catalan Romanesque churches anchor the medieval villages of Taüll, Boí and Erill la Vall, where you can go hiking, winter skiing and see summer Falles festivals.

gif Extension: Continue your Pyrenees adventures with Benasque or the Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido. 1–2 days

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Lecker Studio/shutterstock ©

5

Barcelona 1–2 Days

Travel back to Barcelona, where you can see original Vall de Boí church frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, have a dip in the Mediterranean, and tuck into a Catalan-style arròs (rice) by the beach or go tapas-hopping around the Ciutat Vella.

gif Extension: Roman Tarragona makes an excellent side trip from Barcelona. 1 day

ITINERARIES

Castilla y León & Aragón

Allow: 10 days Distance: 990km

Away from the costas, inland Spain is an evocative mix of dynamic cities, impossibly pretty villages and wide-open plains, dotted with crumbling castles, elegant bodegas and spirited restaurants serving meaty specialities. City-hop around the cultural riches of Castilla y León, then escape into the majestic Aragonese Pyrenees for hiking, cycling and adventure sports.

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Segovia 1 Day

A quick hop from Madrid, the UNESCO-listed city of Segovia instantly immerses you in the Castilla feel, with its astonishing Roman aqueduct, myth-laced origins, Gothic cathedral and an alcázar (fortress) so magical it inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

gif Extension: Go wine tasting in Ribera del Duero, one of Spain’s most respected wine regions. 1 day

2

Ávila 1 Day

With some of Spain’s best-preserved medieval walls, Ávila feels plucked from a film set, especially when lit up at night. Learn about the pilgrims who have flocked to its cathedral for centuries, try meaty Castilian delicacies and explore the old town.

gif Detour: Seek serenity among the walking paths of the Sierra de Gredos, an increasingly popular nature escape from Madrid. 1 day

3

Salamanca 1 Day

Spain’s most beautiful Plaza Mayor meets a lively university hub in Salamanca, where you can admire plateresque and Renaissance architecture, soak up the academic vibes and stay out late into the night.

gif Detour: Head out hiking in the Parque Natural Arribes del Duero or stop to explore Zamora’s historical riches on the journey north. 1 day

4

Astorga & León 2 Days

Energetic León and the old Roman settlement of Astorga are your next history-loaded stops, both offering attractive bases. León has one of Spain’s most impressive cathedrals, while both cities enjoy a rich Camino de Santiago heritage – you can even join the pilgrims for a day (or more) of hiking. Drink it all in, but don’t miss the terrific tapas bars.

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makasana photo/shutterstock ©

5

Burgos 1 Day

Another jaw-droppingly beautiful cathedral? Absolutely. The UNESCO-protected Gothic cathedral of Burgos (pictured) is one of Spain’s most inspired, while the city’s strong regional food scene rewards those who linger.

gif Detour: Go birdwatching and walking in the Desfiladero de La Yecla or the Parque Natural Cañón del Río Lobos. 1 day

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vichie81/shutterstock ©

6

Zaragoza 2 Days

Spin across into Aragón, whose capital Zaragoza is an underrated delight, with such treasures as the works of Goya, a revered riverside basilica, the Moorish Aljafería (pictured) and one of Spain’s greatest tapas scenes.

gif Detour: Detour slightly south to the beautiful pink-hued medieval village of Albarracín, perhaps with a side trip to Mudéjar-style Teruel. 1 day

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Adrian Sediles Embi/shutterstock ©

7

Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido 2 Days

There’s no shortage of outdoor thrills in Ordesa y Monte Perdido, one of Spain’s oldest national parks and top hiking destinations. Wonderful walking trails, snow-dusted peaks, majestic mountain panoramas and shimmering lakes await in this spectacular pocket of Aragón’s Pyrenees, where Torla and Aínsa make atmospheric access towns.

ITINERARIES

Seville to Cáceres

Allow: 6–8 days Distance: 440km

Combine the urban energy of Seville with exploring well off the beaten track in alluring Extremadura, one of Spain’s least-known corners, on the border with Portugal. Beyond Seville’s Moorish-era relics and classic Andalucian thrills, Extremadura brings old cities, outstanding Roman ruins, a hyper-local food scene and wide-open natural spaces.

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Roman ruins, Mérida | JAIRO G/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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RIGHT PERSPECTIVE IMAGES/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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Seville 1–2 Days

Get started in lively Seville, where fiery flamenco, Río Guadalquivir strolls, outstanding monuments (such as the Giralda, the Real Alcázar and Las Setas, pictured) and some of Spain’s greatest tapas bars invite leisurely explorations of the Andalucian capital.

gif Detour: Add on the sherry-making town of Jerez de la Frontera, or try your luck lynx-spotting in the Parque Nacional de Doñana. 1 day

2

Mérida 1–2 Days

Head north (perhaps via pretty Zafra or jamón hub Monesterio) to buzzy Mérida, home to some of Spain’s most magnificent Roman ruins. The inspiring still-in-use theatre is just a taste of what was a major Roman hub 2000 years ago, and there’s more to see in nearby Medellín.

gif Detour: Pop into underrated Badajoz near the Portuguese border. 1 day

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Guadalupe 1 Day

Perfectly doable as a day trip from Mérida or Trujillo (or as a stop between the two), the UNESCO-listed monastery of Guadalupe ranks among Spain’s most sacred places and major pilgrimage destinations. Travel into Extremadura’s mountainous eastern reaches to explore this small, charming town and catch a glimpse of the famous Virgen de Guadalupe.

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DAVID ANDRES GUTIERREZ/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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Trujillo 1 Day

Explore the architectural riches and down-to-earth food world of Trujillo, where grand palaces, churches and plazas reveal the town’s major role in the colonisation of the Americas. In more recent history, fans of the hit shows House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones might recognise it.

gif Detour: Extremadura’s remote northeast valleys, including La Vera, lie within reach of Trujillo. 1 day

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MILOSK50/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

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Cáceres 2 Days

Arguably Extremadura’s most beautiful city, Cáceres reveals one of Spain’s most magical old towns, along with a thriving regional dining scene, an impressive art collection and a few more cinematic surprises. From here, it’s a quick train hop to transport hub Madrid.

gif Extension: Enjoy some of the finest birdwatching in the country in the dramatic Parque Nacional de Monfragüe. 1 day

WHEN TO GO

Spain is a year-round delight, though fewer crowds and usually pleasant weather make shoulder season the sweet spot.

From the Atlantic-washed Galician coastline and the sky-reaching Pyrenees to Andalucía’s sunny Mediterranean shores, Spain’s endlessly varied landscapes make this a dreamy destination regardless of the season. Long gone are the days when Spain was synonymous with only sun and sea. Now it’s just as much about culture-rich city breaks, slow rural tourism, outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters and more. Spring and autumn are perfect for hiking and other open-air activities, while winter sees people flock to the ski resorts. Summer, of course, is jam-packed all along the coast; book everything well ahead. During low season (November to February), some businesses close or operate very reduced hours, particularly in coastal destinations like the Balearics.

Accommodation Deals

To bag an accommodation bargain, visit outside the high season (July to mid-September) and avoid weekends and public holidays. During winter, some hotels in smaller and more remote destinations may be closed.

I LIVE HERE

SPRING COLOURS

Raquel Rivas is a photographer and local business owner in Cómpeta (Málaga), where she also runs a sanctuary for rescued farm animals. @sarja_microsanctuary

Here in Andalucía, April and May are easily my favourite months. Each year, our yellow-and-brown land, dried out by the sun, puts on its spring clothes. The greens, reds and purples of the wildflowers return, along with the scent of the orange blossoms and the endless birdsong, plus the many fiestas and ferias. Every year around this time, I say to myself, ‘How lucky I am to be here’.

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Feria de Abril, Seville | HEINRICH VAN TONDER/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

SUNNY DAYS

Spain’s sun-soaked reputation is well deserved, though things vary hugely from one part of the country to another and the north sees more rain than the south. Andalucía’s aptly named Costa del Sol (Coast of Sun) basks in around 320 days of sunshine a year.

MEDITERRANEAN WARMTH

The Mediterranean Sea off Spain’s southern and eastern coasts is usually warmer than the Atlantic Ocean in the north and west. It can rise to around 26°C or 27°C during summer months, while winter temperatures hover around 16°C or 17°C.

I LIVE HERE

NORTHERN AUTUMN

Eneida and Nacho Mencía Gómez are the owners of hotels Jardín Secreto and Los Balcones del Arte in Santander. @jardin._.secreto

Our favourite season in Santander is September and October. It’s the ideal time to enjoy the city; the days are still long and the temperatures lovely. At this time we tend to have wind from the south, so the skies are clear; visits to the beaches and a stroll along the waterfront are essential. It’s perfect for enjoying our typical pintxos out on the terraces.

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Santander | FITOPARDO/GETTY IMAGES ©

The Big Fiestas

Sunny Cádiz hosts Spain’s most famously riotous Carnaval, a sequin-clad singing-and-dancing sensation rivalled only by Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Badajoz, Sitges, Ciudad Rodrigo and the Balearics also host Carnaval celebrations. February

Teams of local artists create giant papier-mâché sculptures for Valencia’s unmissable Las Fallas de San José, which involves street parties, fireworks, concerts, cooking competitions and, on the final day, the burning of the fallas (statues). March

A more sombre celebration takes over during Semana Santa (Holy Week), which sees endlessly elaborate pasos (holy figures) paraded through the streets. It’s big everywhere (down to the tiniest villages), but especially in Seville, Málaga, Lorca, Cuenca, Zamora and Ávila. March/April

The greatest of all Andalucian fairs, Seville’s Feria de Abril brings a week of flamenco, horse riding, drinking, dancing, merrymaking and fabulous outfits. April

Local & Quirkier Festivals

Spain’s flamenco heartland hosts one of the world’s greatest celebrations of this Andalucía-born genre with the Festival de Jerez, in the sherry-making town of Jerez. The Bienal de Flamenco (in Seville or Málaga) is another flamenco-filled highlight. February/March

Madrid’s festival calendar is jam-packed, and the major Fiestas de San Isidro celebrates the city’s patron saint with parades, live music, chotis dancing and all-night fun. May

The country’s most important pilgrimage sees up to a million devotees join the Romería del Rocío in Andalucía’s Huelva province on Pentecost (Whitsunday) weekend. May/June

Barcelona puts on a mesmerising show of Catalan culture in honour of one of the city’s two patron saints during the Festes de La Mercè – castells (human towers), sardanes (traditional dancing), gegants (papier-mâché giants), correfoc (fire-running) and more. September

WINDS OF CHANGE

The famous Levante wind from the east sweeps through the Strait of Gibraltar, making the laid-back town of Tarifa one of Europe’s greatest kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations. The cold, northern Tramontana wind can bring a chill to the Balearic Islands and northeast Catalonia.

Weather Through the Year (Madrid)

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JANUARY

Avg daytime max: 10°C

Days of rainfall: 5

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FEBRUARY

Avg daytime max: 12°C

Days of rainfall: 5

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MARCH

Avg daytime max: 16°C

Days of rainfall: 5

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APRIL

Avg daytime max: 18°C

Days of rainfall: 6

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MAY

Avg daytime max: 22°C

Days of rainfall: 7

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JUNE

Avg daytime max: 28°C

Days of rainfall: 3

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JULY

Avg daytime max: 32°C

Days of rainfall: 1

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AUGUST

Avg daytime max: 31°C

Days of rainfall: 1

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SEPTEMBER

Avg daytime max: 26°C

Days of rainfall: 3

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OCTOBER

Avg daytime max: 19°C

Days of rainfall: 6

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NOVEMBER

Avg daytime max: 13°C

Days of rainfall: 6

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DECEMBER

Avg daytime max: 10°C

Days of rainfall: 6

GET PREPARED FOR SPAIN

Useful things to load into your bag, your ears and your brain.

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Plaza Mayor, Madrid | BORIS-B/SHUTTERSTOCK ©

Clothes

Summer clothing Spain gets over 300 days of sunshine each year. Light, breezy clothes are best during the hot summers, along with essentials such as hats, sunglasses, swimwear and sun cream. Expect regional variations – even in summer you’ll often need an extra evening layer in the north.

Layers Spain does get cold during winter (especially in the hills and the north), and many buildings are designed for the warmer months so they can be chilly at this time of year. Layers are your best friends.

Smart outfits In general, Spaniards are well dressed, and outfits for occasions such as weddings and ferias are usually on the smarter side.

Trainers, hiking boots and activewear Bring comfy shoes for city explorations. For adventures in nature, come prepared with suitable footwear, rain/wind jackets and hats.

Manners

Taking it slow Many things in Spain, such as restaurants, move at a fairly