Spain
Spain has over 6,500km of coastline, with numerous beaches, but there is much more to enjoy beyond sun, sea, and sand. The country's 49 UNESCO sites encompass historic, prehistoric, and natural wonders. Spain's cities are among the most beautiful and culturally rich globally, featuring architectural gems like Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Granada’s Alhambra Palace, and Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum. Madrid’s renowned art museums house treasures such as Pablo Picasso’s powerful Guernica. Valencia is an eco-friendly city, known as the birthplace of paella and home to the largest fresh produce market in Europe. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride around the Albufera Natural Park located just outside the city.
Spain's allure extends to less-travelled areas, including the mountains of the Picos de Europa National Park in Asturias, the remarkable birdlife in Extremadura, the unique cultural traditions of the Basque Country, and the Moorish heritage of Andalusia, featuring Cordoba’s mosque, now a cathedral.
Lesser-known gems include Castellón, adorned with medieval citadels, trails, rock art, and vast expanses of wild forests, as well as the lunar landscapes of the Tabernas desert—claiming to be Europe’s only true desert. The coastal region of Costa del Azahar boasts fishing ports, castles, and islands. Not to be overlooked are the Balearic and Canary Islands, each with their distinct personalities.
While Spain is renowned for its tapas and paella, the country has emerged as a culinary powerhouse, championing locally sourced cuisine that has earned its chefs some of the highest accolades globally, with acclaimed restaurants in the Basque Country, Catalonia, and the capital, Madrid.
International Airports
The Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in Spain’s capital is the country’s biggest airport, just 15km from the city centre. Elsewhere in Spain, international airports include: Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) in Barcelona, Valencia’s Manises Airport (VLC), Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) in Andalusia, Murcia-Corvera Airport (RMU) in the Región de Murcia, Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport (SDR) in Cantabria, Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) in Galicia, among others.
To get to the Balearic Islands, the international airports are: Ibiza Airport (IBZ) to reach Ibiza and Formentera, Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) and Mahón Menorca Airport (MAH).
To reach the Canary Islands, international airports include: Tenerife South Airport (TFS), César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport (ACE), Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), La Palma Airport (SPC) and Fuerteventura Airport (FUE).
Getting Around in Spain
Spain’s train network is extremely efficient and affordable, so it’s a great way to get around the country. It’s also an ideal way to see Spain at a slower pace and with lower carbon emissions. RENFE (renfe.com) is one of the best ways to book train travel around Spain and the train network is great for both longer and shorter journeys.
Spain is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in Europe. With so much to explore, it's hard to list all the attractions that make it a must-visit place. However, we have compiled a list of six compelling reasons (according to us) to visit Spain, which will surely make you want to plan your next vacation there. So, let's get started! ¡Vamos!
1. Its varied landscapes
Spain offers much more than just beaches on the or the Atlantic. It boasts of the mountains in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, lush Natural Parks, unique lunar landscapes of the Canary Islands, and the semi-arid expanses of Andalusia. With such diverse settings, trip to Spain is unique experience with a plethora of new memories to be made!
3. Its heritage and culture
Discover the captivating history of the Iberian Peninsula, where Arabic, Catholic, dictatorial past, and current constitutional monarchy have left their mark all over the country. From north to south, explore Spain's historical and cultural treasures, including the enchanting Alhambra in Granada, the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the majestic Cathedral of Mallorca, the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, and the world-class museums of Madrid. Personalize your selection to suit your own tastes!
2. Its gastronomy
The mere thought of Spanish delicacies such as tapas, tortilla, croquetas de jamón, paella, pata negra, and turón is enough to make one's mouth water. Food enthusiasts know that exploring the culinary offerings of a place is one of the best ways to truly understand its essence. Don't be afraid to indulge in the divine tradition of Iberian cuisine, but be mindful not to overdo it.
4. A mild climate all year round
Spain is the perfect place to get your dose of vitamin D all year round, thanks to its high of sunny hours. The country's atmosphere varies with the seasons, so a winter beach walk is different from a summer one, and autumn hikes offer a unique experience compared to spring. Avoid peak season and explore Spain in a new light to discover its diversity and charm.
Various festivals take place throughout the year, including Valencia’s Las Fallas Festival in March, Seville’s Feria takes place two weeks after Easter, the Sitges Carnival in Catalonia takes place in February and La Tomatina festival in Buñol happens in August every year.
5. A relaxed and fun way of life
Spain is a country where people enjoy a relaxed pace of life. There are no strict schedules to follow, so you can indulge in your desires, have late meals, take an afternoon break (known as the famous "siesta"), and enjoy the mild Spanish nights and festive atmosphere that the country is known for. This lifestyle is especially enjoyable during holidays and is sure to win your heart.
6. Accessible even at the last minute!
While being organized is great for planning a family vacation, sometimes unexpected situations or a desire for spontaneity can lead to a last-minute search for a destination. Spain is a popular choice for many tourists due to its numerous cities accessible by air or land. With easy access and enjoyable experiences, leaving on a whim in Spain has never been easier.
Spain is also a country with strong regional identities! From the Basque Country to Catalonia, including the Valencian Community, discover and admire the cultural aspects of this Mediterranean jewel through its traditions and world-famous ferias.
Discover the must-see destinations in Spain with our top picks:
- Experience the vibrant capital of Madrid
- Enjoy the festive atmosphere of Barcelona
- Immerse yourself in the period of Muslim Spain in Granada
- Explore the untamed coast of Costa Brava
- Visit the trendy destination of Valencia on the east coast
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more destinations and useful tips are coming soon!
Discover the history of tapas in Spain
Tapas in Spain are one of the best-known customs across the world.
Indeed, the history of tapas in Spain is one of the distinguishing features of Spanish cuisine and no tourist or Spaniard can resist these small bites of Mediterranean gastronomy. There are all kinds of tapas, from a small snack—fried potatoes, nuts or olives—to a true miniature feast.
A new verb has come into being over the years: “tapas hopping,” which refers to this way of eating and shows the influence it has had, not only on Spanish cuisine but also on the dictionary. But, what is considered a tapa? Where does it come from? What was the first one? The history of tapa is extremely interesting, as are its varieties and flavours. If you travel to Spain, be sure to go on a “tapas hopping” tour.
Here is the passionate biography of these small protagonists of Andalusia’s bars and taverns:
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