Spain. When we think of this Mediterranean country, two things usually come to mind: Malle and Barcelona. And maybe Tenerife. Three, actually. But a country that can boast of being the second most visited in the world and whose main source of income is tourism must have more to offer than just three destinations. Granted, idyllic beaches and modernist architecture may be Spain’s main tourist exports, but there is so much more.
So if you’re planning your spring break or already looking for a unique destination for your summer vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Our selection of the most enchanting destinations in Spain leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to the type of vacation. Even if you find it difficult to decide where to go.
1. tabarca
In 1986, the island of Tabarca was recognized as Spain’s first marine reserve and declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1964. The largest island – and the only inhabited one – off the coast of Valencia is one of the jewels of the western Mediterranean with its hidden coves, impressive cliffs and secret corners.
2nd Vall d’Aran
Switzerland in the Catalan Pyrenees: that’s what this small valley in north-eastern Spain reminds us of. Three hours from Barcelona, it attracts tourists all year round, especially during the winter ski season. But it is also an essential reference point in summer if you are looking for mountain tourism, nature and pleasant temperatures.
3 Formentera
Intimate beaches, crystal clear waters, dunes and pine forests: The second smallest Balearic island has all this and more to offer. Even more attractive is its exclusivity: as Formentera can only be visited by ferry from Ibiza during the day, it is rather sparsely populated.
4th Rias Baixas
The Rias Baixas in Galicia, the north-western region of Spain, are a real tourist gem. Here you’ll find protected islands like the Cies or Ons, rugged cliffs and hidden coves on the mainland and some of the best food and wine in the country. Plus, it doesn’t get as hot here as in other parts of Spain.
5 La Graciosa
The least known of the Canary Islands is perfect for an adventure trip: Barely populated and with only dirt roads, this remote place is ideal for those looking for a different kind of vacation. A vacation to discover nature: La Graciosa has the largest marine reserve in Europe.
6 San Sebastian
The jewel of the Basque Country in the north of Spain is probably one of the most complete destinations of all. Its beaches are iconic, it is surrounded by beautiful green hills, it is one of Spain’s cultural centers and its cuisine – the Basque version of tapas – is legendary.
7 Cabo de Gata
The Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is home to pristine sandy beaches such as Los Genoveses, Monsul and Los Muertos. There are also typical Mediterranean villages with their characteristic whitewashed limestone, such as Carboneras and Las Negras. What’s more, the interior is a spectacular desert that has served as the backdrop for classic films such as “Lawrence of Arabia” and“Two Magnificent Scoundrels“.
8th Cadiz
Cadiz is considered one of the most liveable cities in Spain and offers visitors much more than just tourism. A strong contender for the title of Eternal City, Cadiz boasts an incredible cultural offer, the friendliest people, great gastronomy and its fiestas ( Cadiz’s eternal carnival). In short: beaches on the Atlantic, flea markets, popular festivals and monuments galore. And, of course, tapas.
9 Ribadeo
This village on the coast of north-western Spain has many attractions to offer. From its exquisite gastronomic offer to several beautiful nearby islands, castles and impressive viewpoints. However, the jewel in the crown remains the Playa de las Catedrales. The rock formations that form colossal arches and towers were the inspiration for Gaudi’s Sagrada Família in Barcelona.
10th Conil
If we talk about the white villages in Andalusia, Conil is undoubtedly the most beautiful. Its picturesque streets, idyllic atmosphere during the day and lively nightlife have made it a perfect summer destination.
11th Cuenca
Just an hour from Madrid lies a city that has been hanging over a cliff for a thousand years. It was built by the Moors at the end of the first millennium and its streets show traces of both Arab and Christian times. However, the famous “hanging houses” and the crossings over the two rivers that surround the city are not recommended for those with a head for heights.
12th Lanzarote
A volcanic landscape that combines desert, long beaches, mysterious caves and tiny whitewashed villages. An island so small that everyone knows everyone else, and a climate so paradisiacal that you can even enjoy a dip in the Atlantic in winter.
13th Malaga
The magic of Malaga lies in its most famous monuments: the Moorish castle, the Roman theater, the Christian castle, the cathedral… A visit to the beautiful villages in the area, such as Ronda, Mijas or Nerja, is also a must.
14 Merida
The home of Russel Crowe in “Gladiator” is one of the largest archaeological sites of Roman history in Europe. There are Roman temples, houses, bridges and theaters on every corner – not to mention the medieval churches and castles. There is also a theater festival every summer, where classical works are performed on a two-thousand-year-old stage.
15 Granada
The Granadinos – as the inhabitants of Granada are known – can boast of having one of the most beautiful buildings ever built: the Alhambra. But the city has much more to offer. Part white village, part modern metropolis, it offers the best of the Andalusian lifestyle: good food, nice people and a thriving culture.
16th Toledo
Toledo was home to the court of Spanish kings hundreds of years ago, and the city in the center of Spain has retained its charm. The museums, Moorish castle, cathedral and monastery are just some of the things you should definitely visit before you die.
17th Costa Brava
The beauty of the landscape and the natural environment make the Costa Brava one of the jewels of Europe. With beaches and beach bars like these, who would want to fly to the Caribbean?
18 Tarifa
A visit to Tarifa, at the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula, is like discovering a deserted beach on a faraway island. Beneath the white sand of its wide beaches, such as Los Lances or Bolonia, lie entire Roman and Phoenician cities. And when the wind blows – which is almost always the case – you can enjoy almost every conceivable water sport.
19th San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
The orography of this area in the north of Spain has given it an extraordinary language and a unique culture. It is one of the few places that is even more beautiful in winter, with the cold and overcast skies. Not for nothing was it used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. You, like probably the actors of the series, will fall in love with the taverns and gastronomy.
20th Bardenas Reales Natural Park
One of the most surprising trips you can take in Spain is to the Bardenas Reales. Despite the humid weather in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, the desolate landscape will give you the impression that you are traveling through Arizona. This place has also served as the backdrop for many classic films.
