Spain reveals itself in layers, each region offering a distinct flavour, landscape, and rhythm of life. From the green hills of Galicia to the sun-baked plains of Andalusia, from the Pyrenean valleys of Catalonia to the olive groves of Extremadura, the diversity within this single country rivals that of entire continents. The cities tell a story of overlapping civilisations: Roman aqueducts in Segovia, Moorish palaces in Granada, Gothic cathedrals in Burgos, and modernist masterpieces in Barcelona. Twelve places can only scratch the surface, but they form a route through the essential character of Spain.
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Spain is one of the most favoured countries in the world to go for a holiday. Composed of many different regions, Spain is brimming with world-famous sights to see and countless things for tourists to do.
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\\\\nPhoto licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Mishkabear
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Must-See Attractions in Spain
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If you are planning a trip to Spain in the future, these are some items you should definitely put in your itinerary:
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- Check out the Alhambra Complex.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santiago.
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum.
- Go skiing in Sierra Nevada.
- Walk by the Old Town of Avila.
- Stop by Cibeles Square.
- Spend a few hours at Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.
- Check out San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
- Witness the Running of the Bulls.
- Stroll around Las Ramblas.
- Shop at El Rastro.
- Experience Gaudi’s Architecture.
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The Alhambra is a breathtaking palace complex constructed by Moorish rulers in the mid-14th century. This fortress is so vast that it will take you practically an entire day to explore it!
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Located in Galicia, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is one of Europe’s oldest churches and one of Spain’s most popular tourist spots. You will be amazed at this cathedral’s grand architecture and lavish interiors!
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The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is one of the most unique buildings in the world. Catch world-class exhibitions inside this museum of modern and contemporary art.
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If you are craving a little snow adventure, then head on to the Sierra Nevada Mountains to do some skiing. The best months for snow are December up until April. It is the southernmost ski resort in Europe and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean on clear days.
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The Old Town of Avila boasts of the most preserved and beautiful medieval walls in all of Spain and even Europe. Visit the Old Town of Avila and see just why it was made a World heritage Site. The walls stretch for 2.5 kilometres around the old city.
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Are you a Real Madrid football fan? Pass by Plaza de Cibeles in Madrid and have your photo taken at the traditional spot where die-hard fans celebrate their football team’s triumphs.
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If you are looking to spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying the beautiful outdoors, then head on to Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. You can also take the family for a scenic climb or hike! The park is a UNESCO World heritage site in the Pyrenees.
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This historical landmark less than an hour away from Madrid is home to the mausoleum where all Spanish kings and queens are laid to rest. If you are a history buff, you will definitely enjoy the guided tour!
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This 7-day festival in Pamplona is one of the most thrilling spectacles you could ever witness. Run with the bulls or watch others do it! Either way, your adrenaline will surely be pumping! The festival takes place every July.
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Check out this lovely street in Barcelona lined up with charming cafes and restaurants, outdoor markets and various boutiques. You can also shop and dine at the indoor shopping centre located at the end of the pier.
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El Rastro, one of the largest open air flea markets in Spain, is a wonderful place to dine and shop to your heart’s delight. Bargain hunters most certainly need to do their shopping here! It operates every Sunday and public holiday in Madrid.
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No trip to Spain is complete without experiencing Antoni Gaudi’s marvellous and magical architecture. Parc Guell, in particular, is home to tilting buildings, elaborate fountains and colourful tiles. The Sagrada Familia, his unfinished masterpiece, remains the most visited monument in Spain.
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Planning Your Spanish Itinerary
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Of course, there are so many wonderful things to do and see in Spain. These are just 12 of the items to put on your itinerary the next time you are headed to Spain in order to make your trip one for the books! When planning your trip, consider the distances between these attractions. Spain is a large country, and driving from Barcelona to Seville takes about 10 hours. The high-speed AVE train network connects major cities efficiently, making Madrid to Barcelona possible in just two and a half hours. Regional airports also offer affordable flights between cities. Consider focusing on one region per trip rather than trying to see everything at once. Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Basque Country each deserve several days of exploration to appreciate their unique cultures, cuisines, and landscapes fully.
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About the Author:
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Kristine M. is an adventure blogger who writes about the most exciting places to be in. She greatly fancies the various activities that anyone can do in the bustling nightlife in the various cities around the world. During her spare time, she helps Broadband Expert, a high speed internet provider, with its office administration and blogging activities. Check out her next blog post for her next adventure.
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Which region of Spain would you explore first: Andalusia, Catalonia, or the Basque Country? 🇪🇸
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