Tourism in Spain

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Europe / Southern Europe

Tourist attractions

Sagrada Família

Region: Barcelona

Cultural Heritage

Gaudí-designed unfinished basilica and symbol of Barcelona

Alhambra Palace

Region: Granada

Cultural Heritage

Nasrid-era Islamic palace with beautiful gardens

Prado Museum

Region: Madrid

Cultural Facility

World-class museum housing masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya

Segovia Aqueduct

Region: Segovia

Ancient Structure

Roman-era stone aqueduct dominating the town

Camino de Santiago

Region: Northern Spain

Pilgrimage Route

World-renowned pilgrimage and hiking trail to the tomb of St. James

Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba)

Region: Córdoba

Cultural Heritage

Grand cathedral where Islamic and Christian architecture coexist

Park Güell

Region: Barcelona

Modern Architecture

Public park with Gaudí's distinctive organic tile decorations

Royal Monastery of El Escorial

Region: Community of Madrid

Palace and Monastery

Royal mausoleum and vast library built by Philip II

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Region: Bilbao

Modern Architecture

Contemporary art hub with striking titanium cladding

Windmills of La Mancha

Region: Consuegra Hills

Cultural Landscape

White windmills on the plateau associated with Don Quixote

Teide National Park

Region: Tenerife

Natural

Stunning volcanic landscape featuring the 3,715m-high active volcano

Palma Cathedral

Region: Palma

Gothic Architecture

Massive Gothic cathedral facing the sea, with interior decor by Miró

Suggested itineraries

Golden Triangle of Capital and Historic Cities

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Madrid, Toledo, Segovia

Classic short itinerary efficiently touring museums, cathedrals, and Roman ruins

Passionate Andalusian Circuit

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Seville, Córdoba, Granada, White village of Ronda

Southern Spain immersion experiencing Islamic heritage, flamenco culture, and whitewashed villages

Basque and Rioja Gastronomic Drive

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: San Sebastián, Bilbao, La Rioja wineries

Journey through gourmet capitals and wine regions savoring pintxos and wine

Travel tips

  • Pickpockets are common in tourist cities; keep bags in front
  • Restaurants stay open past 22:00 but many close between 15:00 and 19:00
  • Most museums close on Mondays and offer free admission on Sunday afternoons
  • Credit cards are widely accepted but cash is safer in small bars
  • At bars, order at the counter and pay together at the end
  • High-speed AVE trains offer significant early-booking (Promo) discounts
  • In elevators, allow those exiting to go first
  • Summer sun is intense; sunscreen and hydration are essential
  • Trying local language greetings in Catalonia or the Basque Country is appreciated
  • Smoking is banned indoors; only allowed on terraces
  • Government offices and shops close during siesta; check in advance
  • Metro and trains may require pressing a door button to board or exit
  • Taxis can be hailed on the street but official apps are safer
  • Tipping is optional; a few cents in cafes or 5–10% in restaurants is standard
  • Accommodation during summer regional festivals fills quickly; book early

Back to list