Spain
From the Iberian Peninsula to as far south as the coast of Western Sahara, Spain is a country of incredible natural diversity, with some of the world’s finest beaches, remote volcanic islands, and animated cities. Spain boasts a cultural landscape incredibly varied for a nation of just under 50 million. Any newcomer will quickly discover that Spanish cities never sleep – except, perhaps, for a few after-lunch siesta hours.
A Coruña
A Coruña is a busy and attractive city at the very tip of Galicia. This is a perfect place to enjoy a gentle stroll along the streets and avenues, discover Roman architecture as well as modern innovative buildings. The atmosphere in the many magnificent town squares is excellent and full of joy of life on a hot summer’s day. Outside the town centre the beaches, the marina, the fishing port and the commercial port still play a very important role for the people of A Coruña.
Alicante
Official partnerDifferent civilizations have passed through these lands, leaving their mark which can be seen in all corners of this emblematic city. All of this adds to the appeal of this modern city with a primary focus on tourism, but also a special interest in industry and commerce. Alicante, situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, offers not only a great variety of services but also a wide range of cultural activities, with its museums, its festivals and its nature areas, in particular the Island of Tabarca (Mediterranean Marine Reserve).
Almeria
Ringed by mountains and crowned by a spectacular fortress, Spain’s sunniest city mixes shopping centres and tapas bars with a medieval old town of narrow streets and tranquil squares. Along the coast you can find fishing villages, popular resorts and the secluded beaches and wild landscape of the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park.
Asturias
Asturias is a region of splendid beaches, unspoiled nature, dotted with rich architectural, industrial and cultural heritage. Apart from the region’s uncrowded beaches, there are lively inland cities and areas of great natural beauty. There are several major destinations in the Asturias region, including the cities of Oviedo, Gijon and Aviles, along with the scenic village of Ribadesella. Our guide includes tips and information concerning these four key Asturias locations.
Badajoz
A gateway between the two nations of the Iberian peninsula, Badajoz lies as close to Lisbon as it does to Madrid or Seville, and the city draws on influences from both sides of the border, as well as from centuries of tumultuous history, to form its distinctive character. Winding medieval alleys and a skyline dotted with palace towers make the historic town a sight to behold, while the remnants of the majestic Alcazaba watch over the city as they have for centuries, once an impenetrable fortress that protected the area from countless invasions.
Barcelona
Fanciful architecture and hip restaurants have come together with the sunny Spanish climate and beaches. This has transformed Barcelona in just a few decades from a rough port city to one of Europe’s—if not the world’s—premier destinations. Stroll along La Rambla, admire the Casa Calvet’s façade or the Casa Mila designed by Gaudi, visit the Market of la Boqueria or shop at El Corte Inglés, and sample some of the many bars, cafés and late night haunts while you’re at it.
Benidorm
If any one town can be considered to be, or to have been for many decades, an archetype of tourism and leisure at every level, not just in Spain but throughout Europe, that place must surely be Benidorm. This is not only because the town was planned and designed with its visitors enjoyment in mind, has friendly people and a wonderful Mediterranean climate that ensures magnificent holidays all year round, but also due to its beautiful natural surroundings and glorious beaches.
Bilbao
The Basque city of Bilbao is a spellbinding capital of art, design and gastronomy. With one of the world’s finest buildings – the Guggenheim – at its heart, Bilbao dazzles with style and energy, boasts a unique identity and speaks Europe’s oldest and most enigmatic language.
Bornos
Bornos is situated in the Sierra of Cádiz in the” Route of the White Towns “. Ideal for resting and with an important Historical Heritage and a beautiful landscape which is captivating for nature lovers . The first settlers lived in this part of Cádiz 30.000 years ago in the middle of the Upper Paleolithic era . Bornos has numerous buildings built in the 16th Century and a beautiful landscape of the Guadalete River. Definitly one of the most beautiful White Towns in Cádiz.
Ciudad Real
Located in the arid but fertile expanse known as La Mancha, forever immortalised as the setting for Don Quixote’s misadventures, lies the beautiful medieval city of Ciudad Real. Remnants of ancient city walls, churches galore and spectacular cuisine based primarily on cheese, cured meats and wine all make a visit well worth it, and now with high-speed rail connections to both Madrid and Sevilla, it has never been easier.
El Castell de Guadalest
Official partnerEl Castell de Guadalest is a village located in Alicante province. In 1974, it was declared a place of historical and artistic interest. Years after, it was named a historical heritage site. In 2015, it became part of “La asociación Los Pueblos más bonitos de España”.
Fuerteventura
The second largest of the Canary Islands attracts huge numbers of sun-worshippers and water sport practitioners in search of one thing: the most pristine beaches in the archipelago. You can’t blame them. The golden sand, cool water and gentle sea breeze of Fuerteventura are head and shoulders above those of its neighbours. But the island has so much more to offer, from barren dessert scenery and fascinating volcanoes to colourful and characterful towns and pleasant harbour promenades, all of which visitors would be foolish to miss out on.
Girona
Catalonia’s second city is many things: medieval stronghold, university city, party town, and modern urban centre. The Old Quarter, with its majestic cathedral, winding alleys and ancient city walls bring the Middle Ages to life, while the modern neighbourhoods across the River Onyar showcase Girona’s cosmopolitan side with chic restaurants and cafes, superb shopping and vibrant nightlife. It is no wonder that for years running, Girona has been voted the best place to live in Spain.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria’s more than the sum of its famous beaches, where holidaymakers assume the horizontal position to lap up one of the world’s most-celebrated climates. It’s not hard to see why capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria was named after the island’s palms. They are here, there, and everywhere. If you think of active sports in GC, you’ll probably think of diving and surfing. But head to the island’s interior to climb. It’s even possible to ascend Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria’s iconic Cloud Rock. Little wonder GC’s dubbed the miniature continent.
Granada
The impressive, enchanting shadow of the Alhambra casts a magical spell upon all who pass through Granada. This is a city of legends created by gypsies and pirates, played out in the warren of the Albayzin, and in the inescapable presence of the ancient Moorish castle, the famous Alhambra. The Sierra Nevada Mountains provide an impressive backdrop and add to the enchanting feel of this miraculous place.
Ibiza
Part of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is a jewel of the Mediterranean Sea. Besides being the clubbing capital of the world, Ibiza also boasts amazing natural beauty, a superb climate and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you want to lose yourself to dance listening to the world’s best DJs or enjoy the astoundingly clear sea, warm sun, attractive coves and eventful beaches – or a bit of everything – you have certainly come to the right place.
Jerez
Surrounded by vineyards and with over 30 bodegas (wine cellars) devoted to the art of making sherry and brandy, you’d be forgiven for thinking that’s all Jerez is about. This aristocratic city with an ancient heart, unusual museums, an atmospheric gypsy quarter and some outstanding architecture is also the cradle of flamenco, the home of the magnificent “dancing” Andalucian horses and the capital of motorcycle racing.
La Manga
Nestled between two seas, La Manga del Mar Menor (or simply La Manga, for short) is all beaches – an alluring summertime getaway for vacationers both local and international. Warm waters of Europe’s largest lagoon washing over its western shore are known for exceptional curative properties, and the strip’s major draw is world-class golfing, among others.
La Palma
Endless hiking trails traverse La Palma, the pristine Canary Island often wrongfully outshone by its well-charted siblings. La Palma attracts adventurous types – leisurely sunbathing is here often overlooked in favour of exploration and discovery, pursuits followed across the island’s volcanic landscapes, verdant laurel greenery, and at one of the world’s finest stargazing sites – the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.
Lanzarote
Sunshine, idyllic beaches and warm waters are just the start. Lanzarote boasts an impressive natural variety, with more than 300 volcanic peaks which create a fascinating lunar landscape tinged with pink, purple and ochre; but there are also subterranean caves, tunnels and lakes which entice even the calmest of visitors to seek adventure. Needless to say, Lanzarote is paradise for surfers, with perfect waves year-round; and if that is not enough, it is rumoured that the island was part of the lost city of Atlantis.
Madrid
It is possible that the city that never sleeps has calmed down a little in recent years, but even if the bars close a bit earlier these days, you can still count on finding a party atmosphere at all times of the day and in all situations. And then, once you have had enough of socializing, you can take a few days out and enjoy the best kilometre of art to be found in Europe.
Malaga
“Ciudad del paraíso” – the paradise city. This is how the Nobel Prize winner for literature, Vicente Aleixandre, described Malaga. A city that vibrates with life and fascinates with its mixture of ancient history, folklore and modern culture. And of course, it is easy to imagine paradise in this harbour city with nearly 3.000 hours of sunshine a year and several kilometres of beach right in its centre.
Mallorca
Mallorca is certainly a very popular destination for groups of beautiful young vacationers who lie in the sun and sip on colourful cocktails before a night of intense clubbing, but this Balearic jewel has a long and rich history, breathtaking landscapes and an irresistible charm as well. What the island obviously offers in idyllic beaches and rowdy parties it more than matched with culture, personality and awe-inspiring vistas. Mallorca’s beaches, however, with their golden sands and crystalline waters, remain the island’s biggest draw.
Menorca
Menorca (or Minorca) was named after the Spanish word ‘menor’, meaning smaller, so that the name already reveals that Menorca is indeed smaller than its neighbouring islands. As such, the majority of holidaymakers flock to the more publicity-prone islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, while Menorca attracts those who want the best of the Balearics without losing themselves in the crowd. The stunning coves with white sand beaches are a draw by themselves but the historic remains of the British occupation, the countryside, and the tranquillity of this quieter isle all make for its charm that attracts visitors year after year.
Mojácar
The beauty of the image of Mojácar, a majestic melting pot of a cluster of white houses, clinging to the very end of the Sierra de Cabrera foothills, surprises us as soon as we arrive. Then, once we enter the maze of narrow and beautiful streets, every corner captivates us and shows us both the privacy of the past and the most beautiful horizons from the viewing points.
Murcia
The ancient city of Murcia is located in the mountains, about 25 km away from the Mediterranean Sea. The region is known for agriculture and tourism but also for its charming mountain villages, traditional fishing stations, a green countryside, and beaches that are still untouched.
Orihuela
A destination for everyone. Orihuela is a tourist destination boasting a comprehensive offering that encompasses from excellent beaches and golf courses to exclusive natural expanses and a rich historical and cultural heritage that includes numerous monuments listed as Assets of Cultural Interest, traditional festivals as well as a varied gastronomy. Also discover Orihuela in the company of its universal poet Miguel Hernández.
Santander
Santander is famous for its fabulous beaches and its elegant holidaymakers: King Alfonso XIII used to spend his summers here nearly a hundred years ago, and the town is still popular among fashionable madrileños who like to be seen sauntering along the El Sardinero seafront with its belle époque architecture. When the sun goes down and the bikinis are cast off, the town also has some great restaurants and a lively bar scene. It is also a good place from which to explore the pristine countryside of Cantabria.
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela has been a centre for culture and scholarship for centuries, most famous for being the end destination of a thousand-year-old pilgrimage: El Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James. Being the capital of the Galician region in north-western Spain, everyday life in Santiago is modern and chic. Awarded recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage City in 1985, Santiago de Compostela is a historical gem and one of the most impressive cities in Spain.
Seville
The charismatic city of Seville has a certain swagger that sets it apart from quainter Andalusian towns. It is a city with undeniable personality and a confidence that could only come from a place bathed in sunlight almost year-round. It boasts a fascinating history of Roman and Moorish invasions, followed by unparalleled Colonial prosperity, this mix of influences giving rise to Seville’s cultural cornucopia of architecture, cuisine and the region’s fiery dance, Flamenco. Tangled alley labyrinths, exquisite cathedrals and animated tapas bars line the Guadalquivir river which winds its way through the Andalusian capital as it wears its heart on its sleeve for visitors and sevillanos alike.
Tenerife
Apart from having the best climate in Spain, Tenerife is a place where you can really relax and enjoy yourself. This island, crowned by Mount Teide, has picturesque villages, incredible landscapes and idyllic beaches. Here you will be able to enjoy fiestas where you will feel as though you are just one more reveller from Tenerife. Guess why over five million people have chosen this Island as their holiday destination. Just come and have a great time.
Valencia
Valencia is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. With a privileged location by the Mediterranean sea, it offers a perfect combination of beaches and culture, where historic monuments can be found alongside futuristic attractions. The birthplace of paella, it boasts a thriving food scene featuring Michelin starred restaurants as well as quirky tapas bars. Its neighbourhoods come to life during traditional festivals like Las Fallas whilst at night there is a buzzing atmosphere in the many bars and clubs in trendy districts like Ruzafa or El Carmen.
Valladolid
Valladolid breathes history from all of its ancient stones. This is the place where King Felipe II was born, the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabel were married, and Christopher Columbus died. This was once the capital of Spain, and although it has lost this title, it’s still the principal city of Castilla y Leon, the land of castles from which the word ‘Castilian’ derives. Today, Valladolid is a bustling university city that thrives on its manufacturing industries. It is a down-to-earth, lively place that energetically blends old with new.
Vigo
Arriving by sea makes for a splendid welcome to Vigo, a port city in Spain’s north-west set scenically on the bank of Ria de Vigo estuary, facing the Atlantic. Surprisingly the world’s largest fishing port, Vigo enjoys fine seafood in its highest concentration, and offers it up upon first request at restful local taverns. The wildly beautiful Cies Islands, along with one of the world’s finest beaches, Rodas, are only a short ferry trip away.
Zaragoza
Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, has a privileged location with an equal distance from Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao. The city counts on an international airport and the high-Speed line (AVE). The destination has a delicious gastronomy and a rich heritage of historical monuments (Basilica del Pilar, Cathedral of San Salvador, Aljafería Palace, the paintings of Goya or the Mudejar–UNESCO Heritage of Mankind). The city also has renewed infraestructures from the 2008 International Expo (Water Tower, Bridge Pavilion or river Aquarium).