There’s always an excuse to visit Spain, whether it’s for the glorious sunshine, lazy-day siestas or soaking up those beautiful sights, the whole country is full of experiences that are definitely too beautiful to resist.

With endless cultural festivals, world-class beaches, and renowned nightlife, Spain is impressive 365 days a year. I could spend months on end exploring Spain. From Madrid to Barcelona to Malaga to Seville to Girona to Bilbao, it’s such a vibrant country. Whether you hit the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, wander the vineyards of Rioja, or relax in the sun in the Canary Islands, Spain is guaranteed to impress you any day of your trip.

The best part about visiting Spain though is the diversity you can find all across the country. The food, cultures, and even languages can change quite dramatically depending on where you find yourself in Spain. This of course only adds to the excitement of visiting and re-visiting Spain as each time you visit the possibility of having a fantastic new experience.

Despite the diversity, no matter where in Spain you’re planning on visiting and indeed, it doesn’t matter if it’s your first, fifth or tenth visit, Spain always manages to find brilliant ways to surprise and impress you.

Best Time To Visit

September to November is easily one of the best times to travel to Spain.

Plan your trip for September, and you can mark the arrival of autumn, and also the period when grapes are picked. Every year, the harvest signals the end of the grape-growing season. The grape harvest festivals that are held in many places in Spain offer a sample of what the world of wine is like. You are sure to have a good time during these festivities, because the mood of merriment that prevails is contagious. You will also have the chance to see first-hand some of the tasks involved in the winemaking process. Head up to Rioja and Ribera for some of the best wine tastings in Spain !

June to August is the most popular time to visit Spain. The weather is perfect for long days on the country’s 5,000 miles of coastline.

What To Expect

Language: The official language of Spain is Spanish.

Currency: The currency in Spain is the Euro. 1 GBP is equivalent to about 1.12 EUR.

Plugs: The plugs in Spain are type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

Safety: Spain is one of the safest European countries. While there is a low crime rate, you’ll need to be aware of pickpockets in the metros and in crowded areas that are popular with tourists.

1. Madrid

Madrid is often overshadowed by its northerly neighbor Barcelona. There seems little reason for this, though, with delicious food, affordable living, and deluxe shopping, the capital of Spain deserves its own spotlight of fame ! Discover what many locals already know and love about their city, rooftop bars, nonstop nightclubs, fantastic museum exhibitions, and beautiful green parks.

Madrid has an amazing fusion of history and modern, urban lifestyle. Because Madrid is a very large city, it can be hard to get your bearings.

Getting Around in Madrid

City traffic tends to be congested so it’s best to stay off wheels unless you’re driving out of town.

By Metro: The metro is very easy to navigate, even for non-Spanish speakers, and it’s much less expensive than other metro systems in Europe. Madrid has one of the best public transit systems in the world ! If you’re heading into the suburbs, hop on one of the local trains or buses.

Arriving by Air: The airport is just a few minutes from downtown. Catch the metro to the city center for just a couple of euros.

Where To Stay

Hotel Palacio Del Retiro :

This is a stunning boutique hotel that boasts refinery and contemporary design. Hotel Palacio Del Retiro is very affordable for being a luxury hotel, and situated in one of the best spots you could stay in Madrid. You’re just steps away from the Retiro park, shops, restaurants and museums !

Barcelo Torre de Madrid :

Just walk through the doors, and you’ll love this hotel. It’s in a great location on Gran Via, walking distance to many sights (like Plaza de España) of interest and restaurants, plus there is a metro station right in front of the hotel !

SLEEP’N Atocha :

SLEEP’N Atocha is a budget hotel located just a few blocks from the train and metro station, and is in walking distance to major sights, like the Prado museum.

Petit Palace Casona 1900 :

Petit Palace Casona 1900 is located in the chic area of Salamanca, and is very accessible to the metro! The rooms offer all the modern conveniences you could want.

Airbnb :

Madrid may have seemingly endless hotel options, sometimes the best way to synchronise with the city’s rhythm is by staying in a real home.

What To Eat

Local Dishes :

Top local Spanish dishes to try : bacalao (salted and dried cod), olive oil and olives, jamon (ham), cheese, patatas bravas (smoky potatoes fried in oil with aioli), and pimientos de padrón (spicy fried peppers) !

Mercado de San Miguel :

Get your nibbles and tidbits form the Market of San Miguel. This historic market in the old quarter is perfect to sample your way through Spanish cuisine, vermouth, pintxos, oysters, olives paella, caviar, the list goes on and on.

El miniBAR :

Situated near Plaza Mayor, this place has highly rated food, cold beer and sangria for a fraction of other places. If you’re traveling on a budget, this is a must.

What To Do

Flamenco Show :

One of the most iconic forms of dance, Flamenco originated in Spain and still plays an important role in the culture. Madrid has a range of venues that offer Flamenco shows with a traditional Spanish dinner— a lively and fantastic way to spend the evening. Be sure to check out Villa Rosa !

Puerta del Sol :

As a major transport hub, the Puerta del Sol is the most interesting square to visit in town. Here you’ll glimpse at intriguing statues, public artworks, and historic architecture. Grab a coffee and relax while you watch the people of Madrid go about their business. Be sure to watch your bags though, this is a popular place for pickpockets !

Marvel at Palacio de Cristal :

Located inside of Retiro Park, the Palacio de Cristal was built in 1887 and is made almost entirely of glass set in an iron framework. It is set in a 130-hectare park alongside a large lake where there is a variety of flora and more than 15,000 trees to discover on a sunny Spanish afternoon.

Visit the Catedral de la Almudena :

This ornate cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and blends a neo-Gothic style with modern statues and pop art décor. Construction took more than a century and the cathedral was only consecrated in 1993.

Classical Art of the Highest Order at the Museo del Prado :

The Museo del Prado is one of the best museums in Europe—it boasts a fine collection of classical art from Spanish masters like Velasquez and Goya and far-off artists such as Rubens, Botticelli, and Caravaggio.

Mercado de San Miguel :

The beautiful Mercado de San Miguel sits next to Plaza Mayor and serves a variety of pastries, snacks, and tapas. Locals and tourists alike flock here to sample fresh nibbles, and it’s a great way to see Madrid through the eyes of its natives.

Watch a Game of Football

Spain is one of the most fanatic nations when it comes to football, and Madrid is a perfect spot to catch a game. Stars like Toni Kroos and Gareth Bale strut their stuff around Madrid. Players from Atletico Madrid are equally exciting to watch.

Book a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to learn about a city’s unique history and attractions is with a guided walking tour. Lead by locals, you’ll get an inside look into Madrid and discover the city’s food culture, museums and beautiful architecture.

2. Barcelona

Boasting a reputation as one of the most attractive cities in Europe, Barcelona celebrates its role as the capital of Catalonia. The city’s cosmopolitan international vibe makes it a favorite city for many people and is known for its amazing architecture and art. Travelers flock from around the world to see the iconic Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Gaudi.

Barcelona is an amazing city but, as with any big city, you need to use your street smarts and follow basic travel safety. Pickpocket and bag snatching is a big issue here, so do your best to secure your valuables, blend in and don’t look like a tourist.

Getting Around in Barcelona

Barcelona is separated into many different districts and neighborhoods; each offering a unique flavor of the city ! The most popular communities worth visiting are :

Sants-Montjuic: A nice open area with several lovely parks, this area offers amazing views of the city when you get to the top of the mountain. It’s also close to many of the Olympic facilities and is home to the high speed train station with links to the rest of the country.

Ciutat Vella: Also known as the Gothic Quarter or heart of Barcelona, this is the oldest part of the city incorporating the popular area of Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is usually filled with tourists, as it is the central most boulevard which cuts through the heart of the city. Visit the museum, showcasing the first Roman foundations, and enjoy the superb seafront with its boardwalk and beach.

L’Eixample: Outside the original city walls, this area of the city is where many of the best modernist architecture is to be found. It is also home to many of the best bars and clubs in the city.

Eixample: Some of Barcelona’s best shopping is found in this area, and it is home to Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, Casa Mila and Sagrada Familia. There are tons of bars and restaurants in this district as well.

Gracia: Having once been a Catalan town on the outskirts of the city, the growth of Barcelona has seen the area become a suburb, with a significant student population and the beautiful architecture of Gaudi’s Park Guell.

TRAVEL TIPS :

Metro: Barcelona currently has eight metro lines that can get you pretty much everywhere in the city. However, it is a popular spot for pickpockets. If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s a great option—a single ticket will cost you 2,20€ but a T-10 Card, good for 10 rides only costs 10,20€.

Taxi: Barcelona’s licensed taxis are easily identified by their yellow and black exterior. They have to charge you the amount displayed on the meter. Taxis here are said to be the cheapest in Europe so if it’s more convenient,

Walking + Biking: Barcelona is very walkable and accessible to bikes. Save your money and get some fresh air !

Where To Stay

Hostel One Sants :

If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for a social atmosphere, Hostel One Sants is an excellent option. They offer organized activities, bar crawls and FREE dinner nightly. And they’re only a 12-minute walk from Sants Station.

Jam Hostel Barcelona :

This eco-friendly hostel is located in the popular and bohemian Gràcia neighborhood and is perfect for those on a budget who want a relaxing atmosphere. They offer private and dorm rooms, morning yoga, and is only a 15-minute walk from La Sagrada Familia.

H10 Madison :

H10 Madison is a stunning 4-Star hotel located very centrally, and only a 5-minute walk from Las Ramblas. The hotel features a beautiful rooftop terrace with swimming pool and great views of the city.

Hotel The Serras :

Hotel The Serras is near Las Ramblas but far enough to feel removed and able to enjoy the luxurious property. The rooms are very comfortable and spacious and the stunning rooftop bar + pool are a great way to relax after a day of exploring.

Hotel Curious :

Hotel Curious is a small, budget hotel located about 2 minutes from Las Ramblas, and a 5-minute walk from the Mercado de La Boqueria. The staff are friendly, breakfast is included.

Where To Eat

Paella :

Stay away from Las Ramblas if you’re looking for authentic paella — these three restaurants are said to have the best paella in Barcelona, so start here : Rias de Galicia, Cheriff, and 7 Portes.

Calcots :

Calçots are a type of sweet, spring onion found mostly in the southern part of Catalonia. They are typically served grilled and in a clay dish to preserve their heat.

Espit Chupitos :

With a menu listing over two hundred shots, this is definitely the place to get the night started. They typically don’t open until about 10:30pm.

La Boqueria :

This popular market in Las Ramblas has the best fresh food that the region has to offer, with stalls serving fresh oysters, wonderful varieties of olives and the superb cured meats that are a staple of many meals in Catalonia.

What To Do

Stroll Las Ramblas

The most famous street in the city is a pedestrianized, tree-lined boulevard that has many green areas, restaurants and bars, with a range of market stalls and street traders. It’s lively and typically full of tourists !

Hit the Beach

Voted the best city beach in the world, this stretch of golden sand faces on to the Mediterranean and is a great place to get a tan and to meet new people. It’s not a beach for those looking for a quiet spot as good weather draws in some major crowds !

Tablao Cordobes Flamenco Show

Combining an excellent meal with a look at the traditional Flamenco dancing, this experience offers a great insight into Catalan culture and the passionate dancing which has been taking place here for over forty years.

Discover the Gothic Quarter

This lovely area has a range of attractions including the wonderful Picasso Museum and the Placa Reial. The area also has several churches and the amazing modernist architecture of the Palau de la Musica Catalana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walking Tours

The best way to see the city is by foot! Sign up for a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, or a Gaudí architecture tour to learn more about the fascinating history of the city.

3. Malaga

While visiting Malaga, it is hard to figure out why it’s not mentioned alongside Barcelona, Madrid and a handful of other prominent Spanish destinations. I found it every bit as charming as any standard Mediterranean getaway, but with a fascinating blend of beauty and history that set it apart.

It’s fair to say the city isn’t quite the party or nightlife destination that Barcelona or Madrid is known to be. But for pure relaxation, I couldn’t imagine a better Spanish destination to visit.