The grandeur of the Alhambra Palace, the shimmering sunny beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, the rhythmic clapping of flamenco dancers' heels, the stunning bustle of visitors entering the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela after weeks of walking the Camino.
You can find the spirit of Spain in tourist attractions like these, which represent the country's turbulent history, rich culture, and charming natural beauty. From the endless sunshine radiating from the "scales" of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to the vibrant street life of La Rambla and the glowing Plaza Mayor, to the forest of columns and Moorish arches disappearing into the silent expanse of the Great Mosque of Cordoba.
Spain highlights a vibrant mix of past and present. Tourism in Spain offers travelers a package of beautiful cities that we get to know in this article.
Top Tourist Attractions in Spain with Pictures 2024:
Madrid City
Full of energy and brimming with cultural landmarks, Madrid is a modern city that offers a taste of true Spain. There's significant traffic congestion on the roads, but beautiful parks break up the urban sprawl. Madrid doesn't have the traditional charm of Andalusia or the beauty of Barcelona, but it provides an exhilarating atmosphere.The city is constantly buzzing with activity, and there are plenty of things to see and do, leaving tourists spoiled for choice.
The world-class Prado Museum showcases an endless array of tourist attractions created during Spain's Golden Age, while the 18th-century Royal Palace rivals the magnificent Palace of Versailles.
We recommend saving your energy for the evening when the city truly comes alive. Madrileños love to go out and take an evening stroll. If possible, avoid visiting during the summer when the heat is intense. Spring or autumn is the best time to visit Madrid.
Barcelona City
The vibrant capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is a stunning coastal city boasting its beauty and sunny lifestyle. Its breathtaking scenery, remarkable architectural art, and fantastic cultural attractions make it an enticing destination. Naturally, the moderate Mediterranean climate is another reason for tourism in Barcelona.Barcelona features a lively medieval quarter known as the 'Gothic Quarter', characterized by its almost magical old-world atmosphere but more famous for its modernist architecture.
Antoni Gaudí left a permanent mark on Barcelona with his avant-garde surrealist buildings, many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Barcelona is also considered the sports tourism capital of Spain, as visitors flock to watch the magnificent Barcelona team at the iconic Camp Nou stadium.
Mallorca Island
Mallorca is the stunning Mediterranean island with beautiful weather, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a wonderful place to visit when touring Spain, but it offers more rugged landscapes and other quality.Rocky mountains cascade and wooded hillsides slope into the sea. Along the picturesque coastline, dramatic cliffs provide thrilling views, and pristine coves sparkle with clear waters.
Shoppers also delight in the historical cities and charming villages filled with tourist attractions such as medieval churches, ancient castles, and art museums when touring Mallorca.
Tenerife Island
The weather is the primary reason why most people flock to the beaches of Tenerife, to enjoy almost guaranteed sunshine throughout the year. Safe, family-friendly, and just a four-hour flight from London, it's one of the best winter beach destinations for Europeans and Arab travelers alike.Playa de las Américas is the main holiday hub on the island, attracting individuals, families, and couples, along with the magnificent beach of Los Cristianos.
Costa Adeje's four and five-star hotels, elegant boutiques, and groomed beaches make it a luxurious choice. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the wonderful island of Tenerife when touring Spain to enjoy beautiful beaches and charming nature.
Gran Canaria Island
The southern coast of Gran Canaria is filled with beautiful golden sandy beaches. Between Playa de San Agustín in the west and Puerto de Mogán to the east, sun lovers will find no fewer than six major beach resorts.The largest of these beaches and perhaps the most popular on the island is Maspalomas, featuring vibrant parasols and backed by a park and a line of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment. A visit to Gran Canaria is essential when visiting Spain for several reasons.
The capital Las Palmas boasts many excellent beaches, including Playa de Las Canteras, with its wide sandy beach and pleasant waters thanks to the natural wave barrier formed by volcanic rocks, where part of the beach is a diving area.
Seville City
Seville casts a spell on visitors from the moment they stroll down the charming cobblestone lanes and wander through the palm-lined parks. The elegant facades, old street lamps, and horse-drawn carriages create a stunning atmosphere.Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic church in the Christian world with a majestic tower that was once a minaret of a grand mosque. With other remnants from the Moorish past, the Alcazar Palace dazzles with its stunning decor and lush gardens.
You can discover the charm of this ideal Andalusian city in the tranquil squares and winding alleys of the Santa Cruz neighborhood dating back to the Middle Ages. Tourism in Spain is incomplete without visiting the magnificent Seville.
Valencia City
Nestled in a dreamy coastal environment lies Valencia, this vibrant Mediterranean coastal city lives up to the local saying "a piece of heaven fell to earth."Under the warm southern sun, the lively town squares teeming with palm trees come to life, and its churches adorned with vibrant azulejo domes. It truly is a real gem when touring Spain for history buffs and beachgoers alike.
As the former capital of the Kingdom of Valencia, the city is rich in cultural heritage. Magnificent historical landmarks, such as the 15th-century Silk Exchange, the 18th-century Marquis Palace, and the Fine Arts Museum narrating the story of the rich and aristocratic crown.
Lanzarote Island
The wonderful year-round climate in Lanzarote is the primary reason for attracting visitors to the island. Even in the depths of winter in northern Europe, temperatures rarely drop below 21 degrees Celsius.Add to that over ninety stunning and plentiful beaches, along with high-quality hotels and remarkable villas. Lanzarote provides all the ingredients for a perfect beach holiday while in Spain.
But this little gem of Spain off the coast of Africa has much more to offer than just beaches. Thanks to the influence of the artist and architect born in Lanzarote, César Manrique, this island is full of a series of unique tourist attractions worth visiting.
Ibiza Island
Ibiza is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, about 100 miles off the coast of Spain. It is mostly visited by tourists as it is a center for electronic dance music, where they come to dance and enjoy the warm sunshine.The main town on the island is known as Ibiza Town (or simply Vila), located in the southern part of the island.
Other major resort areas (each with a range of beaches) include Portinatx in the north, San Antonio in the west, and Santa Eulalia in the east. Even the furthest beach is no more than an hour's drive from Ibiza Town.
The beaches on the island of Ibiza range from well-groomed wide sandy beaches to rocky beaches in rugged coves with clear waters surrounded by cliffs. Ibiza is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Spain and the world.
Fuerteventura Island
Many consider Fuerteventura to be the crown jewel of the Canary Islands. It's the second-largest island in the archipelago after Tenerife, and it remains relatively unspoiled and tranquil, although its popularity grows each year.Fuerteventura boasts an incredibly laid-back bohemian atmosphere, making it one of the most renowned beach destinations for travelers exploring Spain. Its unique beaches attract windsurfers and surfers from around the globe. The island is also home to some of the best beaches in Europe, making it an ideal holiday destination for beach lovers and sun-seekers.
Fuerteventura is the easternmost island of the Canary Islands and the closest to the coast of Africa.
Granada City:
Granada is the soul of Andalusia, a place of stunning beauty at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This mysterious city was the capital of a Moorish kingdom from the 13th to the 15th century.For the Moors, who arrived from North Africa, the fertile place of Granada was like paradise on earth. The fortress palace of the Alhambra atop a verdant hill was surrounded by gardens of roses and endlessly flowing fountains.
After flourishing for centuries, Granada became the last stronghold of the Moors in Spain when the Catholic Monarchs seized the city in 1491. Despite being predominantly Christian, Granada inherited rich Islamic, Jewish, and Romani influences.
Granada is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Spain, attracting Arab travelers to explore the rich history of their ancestors.
Malaga City
Malaga, founded in the 8th century BCE, is one of the oldest Mediterranean seaports and one of Spain's most beautiful tourist cities.The city's landmarks reflect its diverse past – remnants of a Roman theater, a Moorish fortress dating back to the 10th century built upon the remains of a Phoenician lighthouse, a citadel from the 13th century, and a beautiful Baroque cathedral.
In addition to its history, Malaga offers stunning landscapes of the Costa del Sol and wonderful weather along with a beautiful beach. Palm trees line the seashore, and tropical plants flourish throughout the city.
Menorca Island:
Menorca is an island that boasts a wide range of tourist attractions to suit all ages and interests, from mysterious prehistoric settlements and Roman relics to 18th-century fortresses and water parks, not to mention stunning beaches.The island is small enough to be easily explored, and there's no need to travel far for an amazing experience. Its coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches with soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, arguably some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.
Marbella City:
This elegant city stands out among the coastal resorts of the Costa del Sol. Adorned with palm-lined parks, luxurious beach clubs, and exclusive golf courses, it caters to the needs of upscale clientele.However, everyone will enjoy the sandy beaches and the charming historic center of Casco Antiguo when visiting Marbella. This undoubtedly makes it one of Spain's top jewels.
Historical Marbella is an enchanting old Moorish town filled with charming white houses, cobblestone streets, and shady trees.
Many old buildings are adorned with wrought-iron balconies and lively bougainvillea plants. Plaza de los Naranjos thrives with fragrant orange trees in spring, reminiscent of the Moorish homeland in North Africa.
Bilbao City:
Bilbao may not boast natural beauty, but it compensates with exquisite art and fine cuisine. Once an industrial city, it was put on the tourist map by the Guggenheim Museum.Visitors flock to Bilbao primarily to see this renowned contemporary art museum, which dazzles travelers with its innovative modern architecture and comprehensive collection of artworks.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum rivals the Guggenheim in artistic significance, featuring an exceptional array of paintings by European masters.
Two other excellent museums are dedicated to Basque culture. The Basque Country is known for its refined traditions, and Bilbao is no exception. A visit to Spain would be incomplete without experiencing the beauty of Bilbao.
Alicante City:
With its turquoise waters of the Mediterranean lapping against sandy shores, Alicante is a renowned tourist destination in the winter on the Costa Blanca. This sunny region was named "Lucentum" ("Place of Light") by the ancient Romans who settled here.Visitors still flock here for the mild climate and coastal ambiance. From every angle, the coastal views are enchanting, especially from the Castillo Hill overlooking the city.
Popular leisure activities include sunbathing on the sandy beaches, strolling along the seaside promenades, and visiting the historical landmarks and fantastic museums showcasing ancient artifacts and fine art collections. Alicante truly stands out as one of Spain's top tourist attractions without a doubt.
Cordoba City:
Cordoba lives in the shadow of its grand past. During the 10th century, it was the greatest capital in Europe, surpassing Paris and Rome in its academic, architectural, and artistic achievements.This marvelous Andalusian city still serves as a sort of Western Mecca because of the Mosque-Cathedral, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which stands as one of the most magnificent Islamic buildings in Europe.
Other appealing aspects of Cordoba include its distinctive Moorish atmosphere in the Old Town and the historic Jewish Quarter. The Judería (the old Jewish Quarter) is a charming maze of narrow, winding streets.
Quiet squares and whitewashed houses with courtyards adorned with colorful flowers are some of the highlights of tourism in Cordoba.
Benidorm city.
Benidorm is a resort city located in southern Spain, 41 km away from Alicante on the Costa Blanca coast. The main beaches in Benidorm are Levante and Poniente, offering high-quality services along with transparent waters and soft sands that are hard to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean.Benidorm boasts a more comprehensive and better-equipped network of accommodation in hotels and holiday resorts along the Costa Blanca coast. Benidorm is home to the fantastic water park Aqualandia, where adults and children can enjoy a wonderful and entertaining day.
Holidaymakers can also visit the marine life at Mundomar, which means "Sea World". Benidorm is one of the top beach and summer holiday destinations in Spain.
Toledo city.
Toledo, or Talitla, is the heart and soul of tourism in Andalusia. This ancient historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind its rugged medieval walls, in a maze of winding pedestrian streets, lie some of the country's most important historical landmarks.The magnificent ancient stone buildings and quiet cobblestone streets whisper the heritage of the past. Over centuries, Christians, Jews, and Muslims thrived in the "city of three cultures," constructing a marvelous array of churches, monasteries, palaces, fortresses, Jewish temples, and mosques.
For an unforgettable panoramic view of Toledo and its landscape — which is hard to see when you're in the midst of the city — we suggest heading to the Mirador del Valle viewpoint.
Zaragoza city.
Zaragoza is a treasure trove of historical and cultural gems waiting to be discovered upon arrival in Spain. Tourists will find ancient Roman ruins, the first Marian church in the Christian world, and magnificent art museums.Follow the 'Caesaraugusta Route' to discover the forum, thermal baths, and the Roman city theater from the first to the second century (named after the Emperor Augustus) which once flourished.
The magnificent Moorish palace dating back to the 12th century boasts its splendid charm and astonishing architectural character, along with other UNESCO-listed landmarks such as the churches of San Pablo, Santa María Magdalena, and San Juan de los Panetes.
Art enthusiasts will also enjoy museums displaying famous paintings by Francisco de Goya as well as works by the contemporary artist Pablo Serrano and the renowned sculptor Pablo Gargallo.
Burgos city.
Burgos, dating back to the Middle Ages, boasts its magnificent cathedral, which was an important stop on the route of the Way of Saint James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.Burgos also served as the capital of the Castile and León region from the 10th to the 14th century. This thrilling historical city has preserved the charm of the old world, which can be seen in its splendid ancient monuments, cobblestone streets, and shaded parks. This city deserves a leisurely tour for a day or two when touring Spain.
Girona city.
Nestled peacefully on the banks of the Onyar River, Girona, located in the Catalonia region, is brimming with remarkable museums, stunning exhibitions, and Gothic churches dotting the skyline. A trip to Girona offers numerous landmarks for history enthusiasts as it is rich in medieval architectural marvels.Also not to be missed in the city is exploring the pathways of the landscaped gardens in Passeig Arqueologic and the majestic watchtowers in the old quarters.
While history forms a significant part of Girona, don't miss out on experiencing modern activities in the city, such as boutique shopping, indulging in the flavors and cuisines of Girona, and engaging in sports in the city's top-notch sports facilities. It's truly a beautiful city to explore.
Huesca province.
Huesca is located in the Aragon region in northeastern Spain. One of the main attractions here is the Pyrenees mountain region, which is perfect for skiing in the winter and home to several major resorts like Candanchú and Formigal. It's also ideal for adventure sports in the spring and autumn.Huesca province boasts a range of other stunning natural landmarks such as the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it perfect for visiting Spain, especially for nature lovers and hikers.
The province also prides itself on its important cultural heritage, with many examples of Roman art, as well as architectural treasures found in cities like Jaca, Barbastro, San Juan de la Peña, Montañana, and the historic quarter of the capital, Huesca.
San Sebastian city.
The sunny days spent on sandy beaches and evenings strolling through the charming old town are among the atmospheres of San Sebastian city.This elegant city is situated near the crescent-shaped Bay of Concha and is one of the most stylish beach resorts when touring Spain.
The sprawling beach stretches for several kilometers along a curved coastline, surrounded by the hills of Urgull and Igeldo. San Sebastian welcomes visitors with its scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and other surprises with its lively atmosphere and cultural attractions.
Galicia region.
When you think of Spain, you might envision dry landscapes and sun-drenched beaches, but the northwestern region of Galicia resembles Ireland more than the typical Spanish image. Its landscapes are green, and the Celtic influence is strong: Galicia is filled with folklore and legends.Its cliffs west of Cape Finisterre were considered the end of the world by the Romans. Explore the wild areas of the region by visiting the Cies Islands, an archipelago nature reserve that is part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park.
Galicia deserves more than just a day or two to explore, but one should make the most of the time available.
The Spanish Pyrenees.
Many people visit Barcelona and the Costa Brava every year. However, many others explore the Spanish Pyrenees in Catalonia.This less-known area in Spain provides an ideal escape from the often crowded coast, whether visited in conjunction with more popular destinations or dedicated to exploring the region entirely.
Here in the Spanish Pyrenees, you'll find numerous ski resorts, a network of hiking trails, and biking routes, extinct volcanoes, delicious Catalan cuisine, medieval towns, and rich cultural attractions.
Almeria city.
Almeria city is situated in the sunny Andalusia region in southern Spain, perfectly blending historical beauty with modern charm.Between the historic quarter, tourist attractions, shopping centers, and fantastic museums, this city offers a plethora of diverse landmarks to cater to all kinds of travelers' preferences.
Almeria is a small city in the southeastern corner of Spain, often overlooked as a tourist destination. While many flock to the nearby Cabo de Gata and its beautiful beaches and charming small towns in the summer, the city of Almeria itself is often forgotten.
Almeria city, or Almeria, is a vibrant blend of old and new with diverse cultural influences from the past and present.
Ronda city.
Ronda sits perched atop a plateau overlooking a cliff, embodying the tragedy of Andalusia. This scene is truly breathtaking, and the culture is utterly thrilling—Ronda, or Ronda, is renowned for bullfighting and banditry.Ernest Hemingway set some scenes of his novel 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' in Ronda, immortalizing the unique aura of this place. The most thrilling site is the Puente Nuevo bridge, which spans along the El Tajo gorge, plunging into a mesmerizing depth of 130 meters.
Among other tourist attractions is the 'Plaza de Toros,' the second oldest bullring in Spain, which is still used for bullfighting events. Tourists will also be captivated by the charming old streets and the white buildings of La Ciudad (the Moorish old town).
For further exploration of Ronda's intriguing heritage, visit the Bandits Museum and the ancient Arabic baths along the Arroyo de las Culebras river.
Ronda is a hidden gem of tourism in Spain, often overshadowed but rich in treasures.
Santiago de Compostela.
It was called "Shant Yaakoub" during the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus and contains the tomb of James, son of Zebdi. Pilgrims traveled once from all over Europe for months on foot to reach here.The ultimate goal for believers was to sanctify the relics of Saint James (known in Spain as Santiago), which were miraculously transported to this site in Spain from the Holy Land.
During the Middle Ages, this holy city was considered on par with Jerusalem and Rome as a pilgrimage destination. Still one of the most sacred places in the Christian world, Santiago de Compostela continues to attract contemporary spiritual pilgrims.
You can traverse the ancient pilgrimage route as a long-distance walking tour, or by cycling or horse riding.
Jerez de la Frontera city.
Jerez, or the municipality of Jerez de la Frontera, is a municipality in the province of Cadiz in the Andalusia region. Its population is around 200,000 inhabitants. It was named Jerez de la Frontera (Jerez of the Frontier) for its historical role during the Reconquista wars.Jerez is undoubtedly the ideal destination for travelers eager to taste the charm of both old and new Andalusia when visiting Spain.
It is the cradle of Spanish flamenco here. The streets of Jerez remain lively with the most beautiful flamenco music performances and stunning shows by swiftly-paced dancers.
Jerez is also the capital of Andalusian horse culture and home to purebred Spanish horse breeds from the Iberian Peninsula. Additionally, Jerez is a place of indulgence, as it is home to some of the most popular cuisines in the world.
Logroño city.
Known to Muslims as Lukruni, it is a city located in northern Spain and is the capital of the La Rioja region.Rich in traditions and history, Logroño is one of the oldest cities in Spain and offers some of the best-preserved historical architectural heritage dating back to the Middle Ages.
Its rich heritage is linked to the pilgrims' route to Santiago de Compostela, where Logroño has become an important stop along the way as well as a cultural crossroads.
There are dozens of historical squares to visit in Logroño, which include important sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Redonda, the Church of Santiago, and the Pilgrim's Shelter.
Ourense city.
Ourense is a leisurely-paced city in southwest Galicia, considered the perfect destination for a quick getaway or a one-day stopover while touring Spain.The city stands out for its relative tranquility, as many tourists tend to overlook this area, but the old town of Ourense is a haven for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The best part? It can easily be explored on foot in just one day. You can stroll to the beautiful cathedral and other similar religious buildings, or head to the Roman spa resort to spend the afternoon relaxing.
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Salamanca:
Salamanca, known to Muslims as Shelmanqa, is located in the province of Castile and León in central northern Spain. A visit to the UNESCO-listed city of Salamanca feels like strolling through an open-air museum with splendid historical artifacts on display.From the halls of the old university to the magnificent cathedrals and soul-inspiring monasteries, this renowned university city has been famous since medieval times when it attracted students from all over Europe, and it still retains a youthful energy.
Wander through the cobblestone streets and tranquil squares to discover the rich heritage, following in the footsteps of Spain's greatest philosophers, scholars, writers, and artists. Salamanca is distinctive and charming with an educational atmosphere that makes it worth exploring.
