Spain

Taking up most of the Iberian Peninsula, Spain is a major player in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a melting pot of vibrant cultures, traditions, languages, ancient architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. But that’s not all Spain is known for, as the country’s rich history is also top-tier.

You can thank its location at the meeting point between Africa and Europe for Spain’s multiculturalism. Throughout the centuries, Spain has been occupied by various empires, from the Celts and Romans to the Moors and Arabs.

Remnants of these ancient civilisations are easily seen in Spain’s famous attractions, sleepy coastal towns, and quirky norms like the “siesta”. But one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the country’s different cultures is by exploring the most beautiful cities in Spain.

Best Attractions and Famous Landmarks in Spain

Historical events that happened here (and in the greater Mediterranean region) have left a lasting legacy. You can vividly see these legacies in many of the famous landmarks in Spain. 

Now, let’s dive into some of my favourite attractions and landmarks from this Mediterranean wonderland!

The Alhambra

The Alhambra is a beacon of Moorish history in Spain. But this ancient monument is more than just a palace. If you are a history buff, you’ll love The Alhambra’s bold showcasing of Arabic architecture with stucco-filled interiors, ancient calligraphy, and ornamented windows.

La Rioja Wine Region

Wine enthusiasts will love exploring Spain’s most famous wine region. Known for producing fruity wines with undertones of chocolate, oak, and pungent tannins, Rioja wineries are the ideal spots to savour some of the best wines in the world.

Park Güell

If you’re into intricate designs and architecture, there is no better place to spend the day than at Barcelona’s Park Güell. This eccentric theme park inspires creativity with its colorful walkways, tiled mosaics, a unique dragon stairway, and a serpentine bench.

La Sagrada Familia

Dominating Barcelona’s skyline, La Sagrada Familia is another masterpiece courtesy of Antoni Gaudí that stands as a symbol of the city’s heritage. If you gave me all day, I could go on and on about this iconic basilica’s towering spires, figurine-filled facades, and intricate interiors.

Simply put, La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous landmarks in Europe, and it is not hard to see why. Apart from being an architectural marvel, the UNESCO-inscribed building carefully blends natural elements with religious symbols.

La Rambla

One of the most basic yet marvellous things to do in Spain is take a stroll in La Rambla. This bustling street in Barcelona is known for its exceptional markets, shops, eateries, and lively street performances.

The street is divided into sections, each offering you a unique vibe. You’ll see everything from bird sellers to the Placa Catalunya – a fountain that is said to bring you back to Barcelona if you drink from it.

Most Beautiful Cities in Spain 

Spain boasts a treasure trove of diverse cities from the Galicia and Asturias regions of the north to the Catalonian and Aragon regions of the east. If you don’t want to miss out on a classic Spanish adventure, add the following cities to your itinerary. 

Barcelona

Often misidentified as the capital of Spain, Barcelona is widely known for its rich Catalonian history and passionate football supporters. The city is home to many of Spain’s most famous landmarks, such as La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the white-washed Casa Mila.

Barcelona’s landmarks are a major attraction for international tourists, but the city’s unique culture, delicious food, and world-famous football club, FC Barcelona, are the main draws.

Madrid

The “real” capital city of Spain, Madrid, also has a globally recognised football club, Real Madrid, but there’s more to this capital than what meets the eye. 

Madrid is also Spain’s artistic capital. You’ll find centuries of Spanish and Latin American art in museums like Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía, where you’ll find Pablo Picasso’s famous “Guernica”.

The city’s historic neighbourhoods offer an abundance of fabulous shopping centres, art galleries, bustling squares, and a lively nightlife that will leave you wanting more. 

Ibiza

Known for its party culture and thrilling dance music scene, Ibiza is one of the most visited Spanish islands in the Mediterranean. But fist-pumping and dancing all night isn’t the only thing to do here. Go enjoy the slower side of the island at its quieter beaches and up the craggy cliffs, where you can catch some of the best sunsets in Ibiza.  

San Sebastian

Boasting stunning crescent-shaped beaches and turquoise waters, San Sebastian is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The coastal city is known for many things, but its delicate pintxos undeniably take the cup!

You’ll find many amazing things to do in San Sebastian while visiting the Spanish city. From Michelin-star restaurants dotted on every corner to pristine beaches along the coast, this city is your perfect escape from the quintessential image of Spain.

Hidden Gems in Spain

Let me end with a bang by bringing your attention to some of Spain’s mind-blowing attractions that often fall under the radar. These hidden gems make all the difference between a typical visit and a fully immersive experience in Spain. 

Lanzarote

Dotted with pristine beaches, white-washed buildings, and volcanic landscapes characterised by rugged black rocks, Lanzarote is one of the perfect Canary Islands to visit for a beach getaway. You’ll find many interesting things to do in Lanzarote, like eating chicken cooked in a volcano or sleeping in a yurt at Eco Village Finca de Arrieta, one of the best places to stay in Lanzarote.

Cadaqués

If you could imagine Greece in Spain, Cadaqués is the city you’re thinking about. It boasts idyllic white-washed buildings with blue accents and several swimming and snorkeling hubs. This coastal village has captivated many artists like Salvador Dalí and many global travelers. 

Picos de Europa

Spain is not only home to incredible historical landmarks, but the country also hosts several epic natural attractions that will leave you awestruck. Picos de Europa is one such landmark. The rugged peak is a hiking paradise with beautiful gorges, valleys, and wildlife to admire.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is another fascinating island off the Spanish coast. The island is famous for its stunning beaches, with colorful shores boasting powdery white, golden, and even black sands. 

Go on some Gran Canaria excursions to experience the island’s top attractions. For a more laid-back activity, visit several of the best markets in Gran Canaria to pick up some souvenirs. You’ll also love exploring the sand dunes, which is one of the best things to do in Maspalomas.