If you’re looking for gorgeous views and great food, Spain and its cosmopolitan cities are a traveler’s dream come true.
Is it any wonder that Spain is among the most visited countries in the world? Its Mediterranean climate, stunning architecture and internationally renowned cuisine make Spain a traveler’s dream come true. Check out our top 10 most alluring cities in Spain (in no particular order) and get ready to start planning your next trip.
Barcelona – As the capital and largest city in Spain, Barcelona is high on the list for many travelers, and for good reason — the restaurants, beaches, and nightlife are some of the best in Europe. If you’re looking to take in beautiful architecture, look no further than the Complete Gaudí Tour: Casa Batlló, Park Guell & Extended Sagrada Família. Antoni Gaudí, the famous Spanish artist, designed some of the most beautiful and interesting buildings in the world, and this tour gives you deep insight into his life and work, with first entrance at Casa Batlló; stops at La Pedrera and at Casa Vicens; a skip-the-line tour of Park Guell; and a complete exploration of La Sagrada Família.
Cordoba – If you only do one thing while in Cordoba, make sure it’s visiting the famous Mosque-Cathedral. It is one of the most-visited monuments in Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and completely worth the trip.
Salamanca – In the west, there is Salamanca: a gorgeous city that’s known for its beautiful old town (aka the Ciudad Vieja de Salamanca) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t forget to stop by the many cathedrals and the Universidad de Salamanca, too, for some jaw-dropping architecture.
Madrid – No trip to Spain is complete without stopping in Madrid, a hub of Spanish culture and business, and the home of Pablo Picasso. If you want to take in the city and its beautiful sites, but don’t have much time, the Madrid in a Day Tour is the way to go. You’ll tour the breathtaking Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, the medieval heart of Madrid, and more. Oh, and did we mention the churro tasting?
Granada – Looking for some of the best examples of medieval architecture in Spain? Then Granada is the place for you. Check out the Alhambra, a sprawling fortress that draws around 2 million visitors per year. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries by the Moors, it served as a grand palace for the region’s rulers and is now the city’s crown jewel.
Malaga – One of the oldest cities in Europe, the history of Malaga dates to around 2,800 years ago — a fact that’s distinctly evident in the architecture and culture of the municipality. Check out Alcazaba, a military fortification from the Hispanic-Arabic period, which was built between 1057 and 1063. (Yes, really!)
Toledo – High gothic architecture and Toledo go hand in hand. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Catedral Primada is one of the most imposing cathedrals in Spain, and definitely worth a stop.
San Sebastian – If you’re visiting the Basque region of Spain, you should absolutely stop by San Sebastian. With stunning views of the ocean, gorgeous architecture, and arguably the best food in the country, you can’t go wrong. To get a taste of the city, embark on the San Sebastian Ultimate Pintxos & Wine Tour and galivant through the Old Town, where you’ll sample carefully curated bites and learn how to navigate the unique food scene.
Bilbao – The mountains that form the backdrop of Bilbao, a city in the Basque region of northern Spain, are reasons enough to visit this spectacular city, but if that doesn’t do it for you, there are also plenty of museums, cathedrals, and elegant bridges.
Seville – As the biggest city in Andalusia, Seville (aka Sevilla) is a fascinating city full of vibrant culture and rich heritage. One of the most beautiful parts of the city: The dancing. Check out the Seville Tapas & Flamenco Tour for some delicious small bites and a close, authentic look at one of the can’t-miss attractions of this southern city.