“This is a country with music in its soul, a love of fine food and wild landscapes, and a special talent for celebrating all the good things in life” writes author Anthony Ham, and nothing could be truer. The best things to do in Spain are its vibrant cities full of fast-paced life, grandiose architecture, wild, untameable landscapes alternating with softly undulating country roads surrounded by vineyards and farms, eclectic food, and an intense history which runs through the veins of the country, Spain is a country out of a fantasy tale. An ever-present tone of celebration fills the land, and fiestas are a common part of life. Joyous parties take place across the country all year, whether in the form of the Carnivals or religious celebrations. The Carnival takes place all over Spain in February but the celebrations in Tenerife and Cadiz are the best while Valencia bursts into celebration in mid-March with the Fallas. La Tomatina, the most popular tomato festival is another manifestation of the wild Spanish spirit. Other exotic celebrations are also constantly taking place in some part or the other of the country.
Parties aside, Spain is also rich in grand sites that stamp the country with a distinct personality. Alhambra- the medieval fortress, the renowned unfinished church of Sagrada Família, the colourful Park Güell, the artsy Casa Milà, and the Royal Palace of Madrid are some of the most beautiful sites in Spain. The home stadiums of their favourite football teams make important pilgrimage points for football lovers. And the glorious white beaches that dot the coastline are wonderful places to relax and sunbathe in. The Costa Blanca coastline features fantastic beaches and presents magnificent sea views while the town of Ibiza is a seaside party place like no other. Of the best things to do in Spain, you can have fun on the beaches, gaze up at the grand architecture, revel in crazy parties, indulge in delectable food and wine, and throw yourselves into adventure sports- live life with a relish.
Fundación Rodríguez-Acosta is a Carmen villa renowned for its extraordinary architecture and all-white interiors. In 1916, painter José María Rodríguez-Acosta constructed this traditional house as a studio. It has beautiful rooms filled with historic-artistic objects that give a glimpse of the painter's cosmopolitan and refined taste. There's also a work studio and beautiful gardens with columns, sculptures, and fountains.
The Centro Botin is a cultural space for performing arts like music, arts, theatre, and film, located in Santander, Spain. Built by Pritzker prize winning architect Renzo Piano, this museum was opened in 2017 and is an icon of the city. The structure comes with galleries, lecture rooms, workspaces, and a 300 seater auditorium. There is also an impressive viewpoint on the top with stunning views of the sea and mountains as it is located next to the seafront promenade. Experience the captivating fusion of art, architecture, and scenic beauty with our Europe tour packages.
Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo is a 13th century Nasrid palace in Granada that was used as a royal country estate residence by the Arab queens. It later became a part of the Dominican convent after the conquest of the city by Catholic monarchs. The qubba of the palace is an architectural icon and is now used to house temporary exhibitions.
The Campoamor Theatre in Oviedo is a well-known historic and cultural attraction. It is known for its beautiful architecture and art history. The building began in the late 1800s and finished in 1892; the theatre is a great example of how much the city supports the arts and is a fun place for theatre fans to gather. Neoclassical sculptures and fine details on the outside of the Campoamor Theatre's front show how grand it was in its time. Severino Uría González, a famous architect, made it.
The National Museum and Research Center of Altamira is nestled in the heart of Santillana del Mar, Spain. It is an architectural marvel dedicated to the study and conservation of the Altamira Cave. The Museum of the Caves of Altamira is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for housing marvellous paintings that have been around for over 20,000 years. If you're planning your Spain packages, be sure to include a visit to these fascinating sites to delve into the rich history of prehistoric art.
An architectural structure, the Palau de les Arts is also known as Calatrava Palace. This impressive urban design and culture is in Valencia, Spain's City of Arts and Sciences complex. The famous architect Santiago Calatrava made the Palau de les Arts, mostly used for opera and music. It looks like the keel of a boat, which is a reminder that the building is on a real riverbed. A lot of people who come here think it looks more like the helmet of a Star Wars Imperial Stormtrooper. No matter what, it looks like it floats on the 10,000 m2 of water that surrounds it.
The Cathedral of Saint James, popularly known as the Bilbao Cathedral, is a Catholic cathedral located in Bilbao, Spain. This is a cathedral dedicated to the apostle St James the great and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of this cathedral dates back to the 14th and 15th century when it was built as the city’s main parish church.
Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor Santander is an art center in Santander, Spain. Situated near the iconic Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, the center showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks by local and international artists. Visitors can experience thought-provoking exhibitions and cultural events, offering a unique perspective on the world of modern art.
Poema del Mar Aquarium in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain, is an extraordinary marine park offering an unforgettable underwater adventure. Inspired by the works of renowned Canarian painter Néstor de la Torre, this modern aquarium combines art and nature, featuring a diverse array of marine life from around the world.
Picasso Birth Museum, locally known as 'Museo Casa Natal de Picasso', is located in Malaga, Spain. It's dedicated to the work and personal life of the world-famous artist Pablo Picasso. The museum is the same building where Picasso is known to have spent his childhood years.
Pals, Spain, a picturesque medieval town in Catalonia's Costa Brava region, boasts well-preserved cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a charming atmosphere.
Roman walls were impressive feats of engineering and defense. Built throughout the Roman Empire, they varied in size and purpose. The most famous, Hadrian's Wall in Britain, marked the northern frontier. Made of stone, these walls withstood the test of time, revealing the Romans' architectural prowess and strategic military planning.
Aljaferia Palace is a fortified mediaeval palace located in Zaragoza, Spain. It was built in the 11th century and is the best example of Spanish Islamic Architecture.
Monastery of Poblet is a Cistercian monastery, designed by Arnau Bargués. It was founded by Cistercian monks from France in 1151 in the southern region of Catalonia. It was constructed around the 12th-century church and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. It is one of the most powerful monasteries in Spain, built in the 12th and 15th centuries.
It is famous for its magnificent architecture and consists of the fortified royal residence and the pantheon of Catalonia's and Aragon's kings and queens. The Monastery was constructed as three enclosures with a defensive wall surrounding them.
The monastery holds immense value in terms of history, art, culture, and spirituality. It also played a crucial part in the agricultural exploitation and repopulation of New Catalonia under the Aragonese Crown.
The monastery preserves the Royal remains and the history of that era. You can visit the library and scriptorium, well known for their works on law and history starting in the 13th century.
Angry Birds Activity Park Gran Canaria is a fun-filled adventure park designed for families and fans of the famous game. Located in Puerto Rico, this outdoor park offers a variety of attractions including zip lines, obstacle courses, and themed play areas. Perfect for kids and adults alike, it's a great spot to enjoy a day of excitement and entertainment in the sun.
Wine Culture Winery Museum in Spain promises an immersive experience where you dive into the region's rich history and traditions of winemaking. Nestled in between the picture-perfect vineyard, the museum displays the making and evolution of winemaking and viticulture.
A must-visit in Madrid, the Museum of Illusions offers highly interactive exhibits that are sure to captivate you. Located in the city's heart, this museum features displays that will keep you coming back for more.
The Montjuïc Cable Car offers breathtaking views of Barcelona as it ascends Montjuïc Hill. This aerial tramway connects Montjuïc Park with the Montjuïc Castle, providing panoramic vistas of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and iconic landmarks. It's a must-visit for tourists seeking a scenic adventure.
Formentera, Spain, is a tranquil Balearic Island in the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, it's a haven for sunseekers and nature enthusiasts. With charming villages, cycling paths, and vibrant marine life, Formentera offers a serene escape from the bustling mainland, making it a popular holiday destination.
Albaicin, nestled in the heart of Granada, Spain, is a historic neighborhood that enchants visitors with its narrow winding streets, picturesque white-washed houses, and panoramic views of the iconic Alhambra Palace. This ancient Moorish quarter is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage, where centuries-old architecture and vibrant flamenco performances create an immersive experience. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, savor traditional Andalusian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Albaicin.