Spain: The country that steals your heart and never gives it back.
You walk through ancient palaces one day, sip sangria by the sea the next, and start to wonder, “Should I just move here already?”
The best thing? Whatever type of traveler you are — history buff or adrenaline-junky, culture vulture or beach bum, wine-drinker or tapas-eater — you can find the trip of your dreams in Spain. Because between the brooding peaks of Montserrat, the timelessness of the Alhambra, and the dreamy (and surprisingly walkable!) streets of Seville, the adventures to be had in this country are truly endless.
So, if you are starting to plan your trip and looking for Spain excursions and Spain attractions of interest that go beyond the beaten path, this list will help.
Barcelona: A Fusion of Art, History, and Nature
Gothic Quarter’s Exploration: Discover the historical districts of Barcelona, as you take a walk through the serpentine alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, a medley of the medieval past. At every corner, you will find parallels to the city’s history in the form of resplendent architecture, quiet plazas, the beautiful Barcelona Cathedral, and a lot more. It’s a treat for history buffs and a delight for anyone who wants to capture the essence of an ancient city.
Gaudí Architecture: No visit to Barcelona is complete without visiting the capricious creations of the architect of whimsy, Antoni Gaudí. The unfinished and most famous of all Gaudí projects, the Sagrada Família is visually arresting, with its ornamented facades, pinprick spires, and enchanting interiors. Then, there is the magical Park Güell, bursting like a fête in your head – platforms of patterned tiles, colonnades and kaleidoscopic serpentine benches overlooking panoramics of the city.
Montserrat Mountain: Nature lovers, explorers, and experience seekers all unite at Montserrat. The rocky mountain range, merely an hour away from Barcelona, is home to the holy chapel of Santa Maria de Montserrat. Hiking enthusiasts, panoramic admirers—everyone has something here. And let’s not forget the world-renowned boys’ choir adding an ethereal aura to the place.
Madrid: The Heartbeat of Spain
Royal Palace and Prado Museum: Bask in the grandeur of Spain’s kings with a trip to the dazzling Royal Palace. Then view some royal (and not-so-royal) headwear at Guardia Real and connect with the fine art at the Prado Museum, home to iconic works by Velázquez, Goya, and more.
Retiro Park and Gran Vía: Get a taste of Madrid’s sunny disposition while wandering among city dwellers in Retiro Park before heading to Gran Vía, for a taste of Madrid life: shopping, dining, theater, and a whirl of activity.
Toledo Day Trip: Outside Madrid’s boundaries is the fortress city of Toledo. For a day you’ll feel like you’ve returned to medieval Spain. Find centuries of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim history as you roam its tight streets and narrow alleys, visit its soaring cathedral, and share the wonder of El Greco.
Segovia Excursion: A day trip to Segovia may inspire you to ponder the mysteries of long ago. And then you can just marvel at the Roman aqueduct before losing yourself in the fantasy that is the hilltop Alcázar castle.
Andalusia: A Melting Pot of Cultures
Seville’s Alcázar and Flamenco: Seville is a city that will capture your heart and keep you coming back for more. River banks, opulent cathedrals, Moorish minarets, bulging palaces, jammed tapas bars and backstreet flamenco theaters all fill a day’s trip agreeably.
Alhambra in Granada: A fortress, a palace, and a small residential city rolled together, the beauty of Alhambra is difficult to define. Revel in the chaos made into unity, with soothing ceilings and windows, courtyards and patios, lush and extravagant gardens of the Generalife growing side-by-side.
Córdoba’s Mezquita: The Mezquita or Great Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba calls on the many chapters of Islamic, Christian, and Islamic again. Stepped arches and a seemingly endless, repeated forest of columns open into sunlit, soothing chapels.
Ronda’s White Villages: Be the one friend who witnesses the Andalucian landscape as a friend would — from horseback. Ride through the Serranía de Ronda to gaze down into the Tajo Gorge as Ronda’s white buildings crouch on the cliff. In Ronda, watch a bullfight, eat, or wander the labyrinthine streets.
Costa Brava: Coastal Beauty and Cultural Riches
Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventures: The wild coastline of Costa Brava is studded with hidden coves, and transparent waters cater kayaking and snorkeling. Paddle to sea caves, spot marine creatures and soak up Mediterranean sunshine.
Dalí Triangle Tour: Art lovers can trip down the rabbit hole into Salvador Dalí’s surreal world by visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, his home in Portlligat (now a house museum), and the Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol. This triumvirate of sites offer an intimate look at the artist’s life and work.
Girona’s Historic Charm: Regally graced with well-preserved medieval architecture, Girona is romantic to discover. Stroll on its ancient walls, marvel at the grandiose cathedral and wander around the serpentine alleys of the Jewish Quarter.
Each of Spain’s regions has a unique travel experience to offer, sure to satisfy the interests of any traveler. Incredible architecture and charming old towns and cities, natural landscapes, places to relax and to experience and learn about Spain’s cultural heritage.
