There are many great places to visit in Spain. It’s a fairly bigger European country, so while we would love to see it all, there are some must-see places to mark off first! This list of destinations gives the perfect well-rounded view of Spanish culture, although there is always more to discover!
Quick facts about Spain
| Population: | 47.35 million |
| Currency: | Euro |
| Capital city: | Madrid |
| Major airports: | Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), Barcelona El Prat airport (BCN), Valencia Airport (VLC) |
| Language: | Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque, and Aranese |
How to travel around Spain
Spain is really well connected by public transportation. Budget airlines such as Vueling help connect the mainland as well as the islands for cheap prices. You can also take an Ave train of Flixbus to most destinations around the country.
Places to visit in Spain
Madrid
You can’t visit Spain without going to the country’s capital! Madrid is the cultural capital of Spain, and is filled with amazing tapas restaurants, museums, and historic sights! Visit Madrid to experience the real Spanish culture, then the rest of the country to see how it varies from region to region.
Things to do in Madrid
- See the Royal Palace
- Lounge in Retiro Park
- Shop on Gran Vía
Where to stay in Madrid
Cats Hostel Madrid – For the coolest location and the best staff! Even listed on my best hostels for solo travelers in Europe
Barcelona
Barcelona is the iconic spot in Spain (probably because Cheetah Girls 2 made us all dream of visiting)! It’s a vibrant city of nightlife, shopping, and the beach! Stay out until 9 am with your friends here, then spend the next day wandering the streets or relaxing at the beach. If you want more of a local beach, check out some of the best day trips from Barcelona.
Things to do in Barcelona
- Admire the Sagrada Familia
- Explore Parc Guëll
- Eat on Las Ramblas
Where to stay in Barcelona
Hostel One Ramblas – Small hostel located right off the main street, perfect for meeting other travelers
Valencia
Valencia is the third largest city and is a must-see! While it’s on the beach as well, it’s smaller and more welcoming than the bigger cities. There are plenty of things to do, and lots of beaches to explore in the Costa Blanca region.
Things to do in Valencia
- Visit the City of Arts & Sciences
- Eat something fresh at Mercat Central
- Go to the beach
Where to stay in Valencia
Cantagua Hostel – brand new, fresh, and clean hostel!
Seville
Seville is a beautiful, historical city in the south of Spain. You can spend hours wandering the streets, shopping, and enjoying various tapas. There are plenty of great things to do in Seville. Good weather and cheap prices make this city perfect for a weekend getaway.
Things to do in Seville
- Experience history at Plaza de España
- Explore the Alcazar
Where to stay in Seville
La Banda Rooftop Hostel – Great vibes and views!
Granada
Granada is very unique to Spain in that it was occupied by the Moors for the longest period of time. Even today, as you walk around you will see a mixture of Spanish and Moorish architecture, most notably the famous palace of the Alhambra.
Things to do in Granada
- Visit the Alhambra
- See the graves of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella at the Royal Chapel
Where to stay in Granada
ECO Hostel – A mix of modern while still retaining that backpacker vibe
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a smaller city than the others on the list, but well worth visiting! The scenery will blow you away, and there’s such a unique culture in the Basque region that you can’t find anywhere else in Spain!
Things to do in San Sebastian
- Go for a hike for the best view
- Eat Basque tapas, called pintxos
Where to stay in San Sebastian
Koisi Hostel – Amazing hostel at the top of the hill
What are your favorite places to visit in Spain? Any that you would add as a must-see?
