1. Barcelona
There are hundreds of reasons to visit the jaw-dropping city of Barcelona, but perhaps the most alluring is its architecture. If there’s one thing you can count on looking forward to in Barcelona, it’s the otherworldly architecture that spans the entire city. A center for home-grown Catalan architecture, Barcelona is both modern and contemporary at the same time, making it a jewel of a city to visit. Hop on the metro and visit stunning neighborhoods like Les Corts and Pedralbes or Sant Andreu, or simply set off on foot to discover areas like the Sant Martí and Ciutat Vella. Gastronomes will quickly fall in love with the unforgettable Catalan cuisine that is so prominent in Barcelona. With a heritage that can be traced back to the medieval ages, the vast wealth of the Catalan landscape produces fantastic seasonal dishes that are sure to impress and carve a place into the hearts of foodies everywhere. Try popular dishes such as escalivada and escudella i carn d’olla with stunning wines to cap off an unforgettable holiday.
2. Bilbao
Practically oozing cultural heritage and art, Bilbao is Spain’s gateway to the Basque cultural universe and is bound to make a perfect holiday destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The de facto capital of Basque Country, Bilbao is an industrial port city in the north of Spain and a shining example of urban transformation. While it might not have the same architectural beauty of other Spanish cities, Bilbao offers a different perspective on Spanish art. One of the must-see locations in the city is the famed Museo Guggenheim Bilbao, which was designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 1997. Revel in prominent modern and contemporary works of art in an eye-catching titanium building that absolutely commands attention. Behind its identity as a major European center for the arts, however, are the hard-working culture and down-to-earth atmosphere that truly captivate and ensnare the hearts of visitors from all over the globe.
3. Burgos
The extraordinary Gothic cathedral of Burgos is one of Spain's glittering jewels of religious architecture – it looms large over the city and skyline. On the surface, conservative Burgos seems to embody all the stereotypes of a north-central Spanish town, with sombre grey-stone architecture, the fortifying cuisine of the high meseta (plateau) and a climate of extremes. But this is a city that rewards deeper exploration: below the surface lie good restaurants and, when the sun's shining, pretty streetscapes that extend far beyond the landmark cathedral. There's even a whiff of legend about the place: beneath the majestic spires of the cathedral lies the tomb of Burgos' favourite and most roguish son, El Cid.
4. Córdoba
One building alone is reason enough to put Córdoba high on your itinerary: the mesmerising multiarched Mezquita. One of the world's greatest Islamic buildings, the Mezquita is a symbol of the worldly, sophisticated culture that flourished here more than a millennium ago when Córdoba was capital of Islamic Spain and western Europe's biggest, most cultured city. But today's Córdoba is much more than the Mezquita. With a lot to see and do, some charming accommodation, and excellent restaurants and bars, it merits far more than the fleeting visit many travellers give it. Córdoba's real charms unfold as you explore the winding, stone-paved lanes of the medieval city to the west, north and east of the gaudy touristic area immediately around the Mezquita, wandering between wrought-iron balconies and lamps, potted plants, overhanging trees, golden-stone buildings and verdant interior patios, emerging every few minutes on yet another quaint little hidden plaza.
5. Girona
Northern Catalonia’s largest city, Girona is a jewellery box of museums, galleries and Gothic churches, strung around a web of cobbled lanes and medieval walls. Reflections of Modernista mansions shimmer in the Riu Onyar, which separates the walkable historic centre on its eastern bank from the gleaming commercial centre on the west. The Roman town of Gerunda lay on the Via Augusta from Gades (now Cádiz) to the Pyrenees. Taken from the Muslims by the Franks in the late 8th century, Girona became the capital of one of Catalonia’s most important counties, falling under the sway of Barcelona in the late 9th century. Girona’s wealth in medieval times produced many fine Romanesque and Gothic buildings that have survived repeated attacks, while a Jewish community flourished here until its expulsion in 1492. With Catalonia’s most diverse nightlife and dining scene outside Barcelona, Girona makes a delicious distraction from the coast.
6. Granada
Drawn by the allure of the Alhambra, many visitors head to Granada unsure what to expect. What they find is a gritty, compelling city where serene Islamic architecture and Arab-flavoured street life go hand in hand with monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art. The city, sprawled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, was the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors and their legacy lies all around: it’s in the horseshoe arches, the spicy aromas emanating from street stalls, the teterías (teahouses) of the Albayzín, the historic Arab quarter. Most spectacularly, of course, it’s in the Alhambra, an astonishing palace complex whose Islamic decor and landscaped gardens are without peer in Europe. There’s also an energy to Granada’s streets, packed as they are with bars, student dives, bohemian cafes and intimate flamenco clubs, and it’s this as much as the more traditional sights that leaves a lasting impression.
7. Huesca
Located in the Aragon region in the northeast of Spain, Huesca is the ideal destination for travelers who are keen on skiing, participating in adventure tourism, or soaking up the natural beauty of Spain. All of these activities and more are made possible by Huesca’s main attraction: the breathtaking mountainous area of Pyrenean, which is home to several resorts like Formigal and Candanchú, which come alive during the winter season as avid skiers flock to the city to challenge the slopes. Huesca is also home to exciting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park and a portion of the Way of Saint James pilgrim’s route. From hiking through the national parks to exploring the historic quarters of Huesca, there is no shortage of activities to keep visitors completely immersed in their surroundings. Whether you’re taking on your next big adventure sport, exploring Romanesque art, or setting off to discover architectural and historic treasures, Huesca is bound to make a memorable vacation destination.
Stand down, all other claimants. Jerez, as most savvy Hispanophiles know, is Andalucía. It just doesn’t broadcast it in the way that Seville and Granada do. Jerez is the capital of Andalucian horse culture, stop one on the famed Sherry Triangle and – cue protestations from Cádiz and Seville – the cradle of Spanish flamenco. The bulería, Jerez’ jokey, tongue-in-cheek antidote to Seville’s tragic soleá, was first concocted in the legendary Roma barrios of Santiago and San Miguel. But Jerez is also a vibrant modern Andalucian city, where fashion brands live in old palaces and stylishly outfitted businesspeople sit down to distinctly contemporary cuisine between glasses of fino at bubbly tabancos. If you really want to unveil the eternal riddle that is Andalucia, start with Jerez.
9. Logroño
Rich in tradition and history, Logroño is one of Spain’s oldest cities and offers some of its best preserved historical architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. Its deep-rooted heritage is largely tied to the Pilgrim’s Route to Santiago de Compostela, as Logroño became an important stop along the route as well as a cultural crossroads. There are dozens of historic squares that can be visited in Logroño that are home to significant sites like the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Redonda, the Church of Santiago, and the Pilgrim’s Shelter. Apart from its historic attractions, Logroño is also quickly gaining traction as a culinary destination in Spain. The area is synonymous with fantastic Spanish wines and the rich soil and farming history of the area allow chefs to whip up local specialties like marzipan or almond pastries. Truly, a trip to Logroño is like taking a pilgrimage for the soul and the tummy.
10. Madrid
Located at the heart of Iberia, Madrid is a large and modern city that continues to grow every day. With a population of 4 million people and rising, what Madrid lacks in architectural gems is more than made up for by its stunning collection of art and culture. Though Madrid does have pockets of architectural and historical sites, the real draw of the city are its museums, like the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. In addition to these heavyweights, there are dozens of palaces and boutique museums that also have great collections of art. Perhaps the true draw of Madrid, however, lies in the culture and lifestyle cultivated by the locals. Relaxing and hanging out at a café or leisurely trips to the flea markets are favorite local pastimes, while parties, bars, and discos come alive in the evening. Soak up the incredible art collections of the city or simply do as the locals do. Whichever you choose to do, Madrid will definitely be one for the books.
11. Ourense
A slow-paced city in the southwest of Galicia, Ourense is the perfect destination for a quick getaway or a one-day pit-stop during a trip through Spain. The city is relatively quiet as many tourists tend to overlook this area, but Ourense’s old town is a treat for lovers of history and architecture. The best part? It can easily be explored on foot in just a day. Take a walk to the beautiful cathedral and other similar religious buildings or head to the Roman spa for a relaxing afternoon. Since the city is so compact in nature, venturing beyond the capitol city and exploring the provincial areas of Ourense is easy to accomplish. There are tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including trips to old monasteries and forts that remain impressive and well maintained. With distinguished streets and memorable sights, a trip to Ourense promises leisure and relaxation.
12. Salamanca
Salamanca is, without a doubt, a must-see city in Spain thanks to its rich history and utterly charming atmosphere. Located in the western part of Spain in the Castile y León region, Salamanca gained recognition and fame for its stand-out culture and student atmosphere. The city itself dates back to the Celtic era and is well known for both the ornate sandstone architecture that dominates the area and the Universidad de Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Spain. For a taste of Salamanca’s history, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old City. It is in the Old City that religious architecture of several styles can be found, such as the Iglesia de San Juan de Barbalos or the convents of Las Claras and Santa Teresa. On the other side of town, the streets come alive at night with the massive student population that calls the city home. To soak up the lively atmosphere of Salamanca, head to the university area and try out some of the many pubs and restaurants there.
13. Santillana del Mar
Santillana del Mar is located on Cantabria’s west coast and is one of the region’s most important cultural treasures alongside the Cave of Atlamira. The entire town is a living museum of a medieval village that was built around the Santa Juliana collegiate church between the 14th and 18th centuries, making it an incredibly enjoyable trip for history lovers. Santillana del Mar can only be explored on foot, but with the area being so small, this is the best way to navigate the city. Walk north through Santillana del Mar to discover gems along Santo Domingo Street or spend an afternoon people-watching in Ramon Pelayo square. Admirers of religious architecture will also enjoy a trip to the “Colegiata”, the most significant religious monument in the Cantabria region.
14. Seville
Some cities blast you away, others slowly win you over. Seville disarms and seduces you. Its historic centre, lorded over by a colossal Gothic cathedral, is an intoxicating mix of resplendent Mudéjar palaces, baroque churches and winding medieval lanes. Flamenco clubs keep the intimacy and intensity of this centuries-old tradition alive whilst aristocratic mansions recall the city’s past as a showcase Moorish capital and, later, a 16th-century metropolis rich on the back of New World trade. But while history reverberates all around, Seville is as much about the here and now as the past. It’s about eating tapas in a crowded bar or seeing out the end of the day over a drink on a buzzing plaza. The sevillanos have long since mastered the art of celebrating and the city’s great annual festivals, notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril, are among Spain’s most heartfelt.
15. Valencia
A memorable Mediterranean holiday awaits all visitors at the sunny and festive city of Valencia. Spain’s third largest city, Valencia is magnificent in all its aspects. Not only is Valencia an utterly livable city, it’s also home to a thriving foodie scene, some of the country’s best nightlife, and incredible culture. The city has also come to the forefront of innovation as it diverted its river and built fantastic feats of architecture in its place alongside a gorgeous winding park. In the midst of brilliant modern architecture and manicured gardens, Valencia’s history and culture are eternalized in amazing museums and an old quarter full of character. Much to the delight of foodies and gastronomes from all over the globe, Valencia is surrounded by fertile farmland, which is a main contributor to the city’s status as the home of paella.
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