1. Barcelona

Located along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is one of the most popular places in Spain to visit. It was originally founded as an ancient Roman city and over the millennia, it has flourished into the bustling metropolis that it is today. The city is surrounded with history and is filled with many historical sites that have attracted millions of visitors throughout the years.

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain by Wolfgang Staudt

2. Madrid

The city of Madrid is the capital of Spain as well as being one of the largest cities in the country. With more than 7 million people residing in the metropolitan area, Madrid is the third largest urbanized area in the entire European Union. The Manzanares River can be found flowing through the city’s historical center where you will find countless historical landmarks.

Gran Via, Madrid, Spain by Felipe Gabaldón

3. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Perhaps one of the most popular destinations in Spain is the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria is the second most populous island of the Canary Islands that is located off from the African coastlines. There are countless beaches to lie along and many different archaeological sites that can be found on the island.

Gran Canaria landscape, Canary Islands, Spain by JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA

4. Ibiza, Balearic Islands

You will find the island of Ibiza situated off from the coastlines of Valencia in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The island is part of a small archipelago (Balearic Islands) for which Ibiza is the third largest in the island group. Over the years, the island has become known for its lively clubs and night life which attracts people from all over Europe and the world.

Cala D’Hort in Ibiza by Federico Capoano

5. Tenerife, Canary Islands

The island of Tenerife can be found within the Canary Islands archipelago. It is the largest and most populated island in the group. Annually, more than five million people make their way to the shores of Tenerife. While there are a lot of places to visit within throughout the island, most people make there way here to relax and simply enjoy their much-awaited holiday in the sun.

Teide National Park, Tenerife by JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA

6. Seville

You will find the Spanish city of Seville situated along the banks of the River Guadalquivir. Founded by the Romans thousands of years ago, Seville has grown into the fourth largest city in the country today. Its well-preserved historical town centre is one of the largest in the European Union.

Plaza de Espana, Seville, Spain by seiho

7. Granada

The city of Granada can be found in the Sierra Nevada foothills where the Darro, Beiro and Genil rivers merge. It is popular destination in Spain due to its pristine location and also thanks to Alhambra Palace. The shores of the Mediterranean Sea can be found only an hour from the city and the Sierra Nevada Ski Station is only a short distance from the city.

Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain by Alex Proimos

8. València

The city of València is the third largest in the country. The city was first founded by the Romans back in the first century B.C. Today it can be found along the Turia river banks where the river flows into the Mediterranean. The beautiful historic town centre is filled with countless historical treasures. There are countless places in València to visit, including the largest aquarium in Europe, which is why it has become one of the most popular destination in Spain.

Oceanografic, Valencia, Spain / Photo by Claire (Europe Explored)

9. Benidorm

The coastal town of Benidorm can be found along the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular resort town which is located just outside of València. There are countless beaches that can be found at the edges of town as well as a number of hotels that dominate the skyline and offer some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Mediterranean and surrounding countryside. It is often called “Manhattan of Europe or Spain” thanks to its skyscrapers.

Benidorm, Spain by Phillip Capper

10. Menorca, Balearic Islands

Located just off shore of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea, you will find a small archipelago group of islands known as the Balearic Islands. It is here that you will find the island of Menorca which has become a popular destination along the Mediterranean. The island is a mountainous one which is home to the 358 meter tall mountain, El Toro.

Calan Porter, Menorca by gerriet

11. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

You will find the island of Fuerteventura situated off the coasts of Africa. It is part of the Canary Islands archipelago. It is the second largest of the islands in the group and as such, offers more than 50 kilometres of pristine white sandy beaches. It also has an additional 25 kilometres of black volcanic beaches as well.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands by Ina Widegren

12. Calvià, Majorca, Balearic Islands

You will find the city of Calvià situated on Majorca Island, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, just off shore from Spain, Calvià has grown to become a very popular destination in the country. There are a number of historical monuments and buildings that can be found in the city, but most of the visitors to the islands come to relax under the Mediterranean sun.

Majorca, Spain by Son of Groucho

13. Málaga

The city of Málaga is considered to be the southernmost city on the European continent. Situated just east of the Strait of Gibraltar, along the pristine Mediterranean shorelines, the city has become a popular retreat due to its long summers and warm winters. At more than 2,800 years old, the city is also one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world.

El Alcazaba, Malaga

14. La Palma, Canary Islands

While the island of La Palma is only the fifth largest of the popular Canary Islands, it is one of the most populated islands in the archipelago. Much of the homes and buildings that can be found on La Palma were built back in the 17th century and are perhaps one of the most charming aspects of the island.

La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain by pizzodisevo

15. Lloret de Mar

The coastal town of Lloret de Mar can be found along the shorelines of the Mediterranean Sea. Countless visitors have made their way to the town over the years to enjoy a fun-filled holiday in the sun. There are a number of bars and clubs that can be found in the town which has helped to establish Lloret de Mar as a lively party destination as well.

Beach of Lloret de Mar, Spain by Iron Bishop

16. Salou

The city of Salou dates back to the days of the Roman Empire when it was home to one of the most important ports in the region. Today however, the city is known as a popular destination in the country on account of the beautiful pristine beaches that can be found along its shores. Salou is also the transportation hub for those seeking to spend their holiday on the Balearic Islands. One of the best attractions that can be visited close to Salou is PortAventura Adventure Park awarded as the Best Amusement Park in Europe for 2012.

PortAventura Theme Park near Salou by João Máximo

17. Córdoba

The geographical region of Córdoba has become known over the years for its tantalizing wines. There are a number of vineyards and wineries that can be found throughout the region which produces a number of different qualities to choose from. Countless people make their way to the region every single year to visit the vineyards and wineries which can be found throughout the countryside.

Córdoba, Spain by Juan Carlos Guijarro Moreno

18. Tías, Lanzarote, Canary Islands

You will find the town of Tías situated on Lanzarote Island in the popular Canary Islands archipelago. The town is the main municipality on the island and is also home to most of the island’s hotels. While there are countless beaches on the island, some of the finest can only be found in Tías. If you chose Lanzarote for your next holidays, check flighthub.com and find the cheap air tickets to Lanzarote and other parts of Spain.

Sunset in Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain by torephoto

19. San Sebastián

In the northern part of Spain, you will find the coastal city of San Sebastián situated along the shores of the Bay of Biscay. With the French border a mere twenty kilometres from the city, it has grown to become one of the most famous holiday destinations in the country. San Sebastián is also known for its international film festival which is held annually.

The beach of San Sebastian, Spain by dynamosquito

20. Toledo

You will find the city of Toledo located in the central portion of Spain. The city is known for its role in the history of Spain as it was once the capital of the country. There are countless World Heritage sites that can be found throughout Toledo as well as a number of archaeological sites that can be found in the city’s outskirts.

Toledo by F H Mira

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Barcelona is a must-do excursion if you are staying in Spain, not only for the architecture, but also for the vibrant culture. Barcelona is the capital of Catalunya and is close to the Costas, so is easy to reach on an organised excursion or by train. If you are a shopaholic, Las Ramblas is the place to head to, but make time for Gaudi’s famous cathedral and also sample some of the genuine tapas round the market area of Gracia. There is also a small beach at Barcelona, so if you are spending a day or so there, take a swimsuit.

Sagrada Familia from inside, Barcelona, Spain by SBA73

Granada

Granada is the capital of the province of Granada and is an essential excursion if you are staying in southern Spain or touring round. Granada is in eastern Andalusia and is home to the Alhambra and the magnificent cathedral. Granada is set among rocky landscapes and the narrow and twisting streets are fascinating to explore. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Moorish architecture – it is a wonderful sight illuminated at night against the backdrop of Granada’s hills.

Alhambra, Granada, Andalusia, Spain by Antonio

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is easily reached by car, plane, or boat from Spain and is also across the bay from Africa. Gibraltar has been a British outpost for centuries and played a major role in the Battle of Trafalgar – there is a small cemetery at one end of the high street which is worth a wander round as it contains the graves of naval personnel killed at Trafalgar. The main attraction is duty free shopping – and the Rock of Gibraltar, which you can take a minibus up, although hikers may like to walk: it takes around an hour-and-a-half to reach the summit on foot if you are fit, but watch out for traffic. Along the way are the caves of St Paul and at the top are marvellous views, a Moorish castle, siege tunnels and tons of monkeys, who will cadge food, steal your hat and sunglasses and pose for photos. You can also take tea at the famous Rock hotel in town – much loved by Sir Winston Churchill and his contemporaries.

Gibraltar, Spain by Jacrews7

Toledo

Toledo is an historic fortress city set in a mountain about an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Madrid. It is reached by driving across a narrow entry road perched high above a deep ravine, which is an experience in itself. Toledo is where Spain’s ancient sword manufacturing industry was based, but it also boasts a magnificent cathedral – look up at the roof to see the headgear of the Cathedral’s clergy hanging from the roof as a tribute after they died. There is something quite eerie about Toledo, but its narrow, winding streets are fascinating and it is worthwhile half-day trip if you are within reach of the area.

Alcazar de Toledo, Spain by Janos Korom Dr.

Suffering illness in Spain is more common than you think, with thousands of holidaymakers descending to one place, illness can only spread like wild fire.

Peter Anderson – I love to blog about holidays in Spain Google+

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Europe offers variety and individuality that many travelers simply do not have access to back home such as Italian leather, Belgian chocolates and Swiss watches; It really is a shopper’s paradise. Here’s the top 5 cities throughout the continent that shopaholics really can’t afford to miss.

Shopping Centre, London, UK by Jim Linwood

1. Dresden, Germany

With its rich yet turbulent history, Dresden is often described as being rather quiet and gloomy, but all that changes during the winter months when they city plays host to the Dresden Christmas Market. Established during the 15th Century, this is the oldest festive marketplace in Europe and is renowned for the homemade stollen on offer. Around 250 stallholders take part annually, selling an array of carefully handcrafted trinkets and blown glass holiday decorations.

2. Barcelona, Spain

The beauty of Barcelona is that it provides a refreshing mix of traditional Spanish stores that have been around since the Civil War and modern designer stores famous around the world. The top brands can, of course, be found nestled amongst quaint continental-style cafés along the cosmopolitan Passeig de Gràcia, known for being one of the most pricey avenues in Spain, while souvenir shops and more affordable stores line the nearby streets of Las Ramblas.

3. Paris, France

Anyone with even the vaguest of interest in clothing cannot pass up an opportunity to shop in the fashion capital of the world. The Champs-Élysées is the place to see and be seen in the center of Paris, with store after store dedicated to the latest styles. It’s not all designer clothes though, as this famous stretch from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde also houses toy stores, ice cream parlors and even car showrooms.

4. London, England

Frequently beating down the strong competition, London is often crowned King of shopping opportunities in Europe, with tourism purchases alone thought to contribute a whopping 3 billion pounds, or almost 5 billion dollars, to the British economy. London is famous for its big name department stores and global chains on Oxford Street, but also offers one-of-a-kind fashion boutiques and unconventional independent stores along Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, and a peek inside a Notting Hill bookstore is an absolute must-do activity.

5. Haarlem, Holland

Considered to be Holland’s premier shopping destination, Haarlem boasts numerous awards for its unrivaled shopping facilities. Visitors are drawn to the pretty, historic and, most importantly, pedestrianised Grote Houtstraat where the major brands are located, as well as to the small independent stores lining the surrounding cobbled streets. Situated just 13 miles west of Amsterdam, access is easy whether you arrive by plane, train or one of the many ferries to Holland.

Jennifer Watts, a freelance writer, provided this article for P&O Ferries. The opinions expressed are those of the author and any data provided does not originate from P&O Ferries. The following is a link to the P&O Ferries homepage – https://www.poferries.com/

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by davidd

The historical buildings, museums, architecture and other famous landmarks of Barcelona perfectly mirror the culture and political history of the city. Today, Barcelona is becoming popular for its many modern attractions and buildings. It is a European city which can give you the right mix of traditional and modern culture and architecture. It comes to no surprise that the flights to Barcelona remain one of the most coveted travel deals offered by airlines.

Popular Attractions in Barcelona

Flights to Barcelona are surely something to look forward to. Barcelona holidays provide you with ample opportunity to explore the variety of attractions that can be enjoyed by families, honeymooners and adventurers. Let’s discover the handful charms of Barcelona that will make your Barcelona flight worth spending upon.

Barri Gothic

This part of Barcelona is the oldest in the city. It boasts a number of tall, medieval and Gothic buildings. Aside from its ancient structure, many tourists also look forward to experiencing the intense nightlife in Barri Gothic.

La Pedrera

Casa Mila: This is an apartment building designed by the world famous architect Antoni Gaudi. It features an extraordinarily innovative and beautiful structure. Tourists can roam the building and go to the rooftop to see the breathtaking view of Barcelona.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Craig Cormack

Museo Picasso

If you love art and Picasso, this museum is a must-see. Museo Picasso displays over 3,000 pieces of artwork made by famous European artists and of course, Picasso.

Beaches

Barcelona has some of the world’s finest beaches that are responsible for making Barcelona a top summer destination. Barcelona beaches are characteristic with pristine waters and rough, golden sands. Nova Icaria, Mar Bella and Costa Brava are just a few  of the beaches that attract tourists in droves to embark on a flight to Barcelona .

Getting to Barcelona

You can make your way to Barcelona through a direct flight or through Madrid. The best time to travel to Barcelona is the off-peak season from January to March. Tickets during these months are definitely cheaper than usual.

Places to Stay on Your Visit

Barcelona is home to many luxury hotels, vacation homes, holiday apartments and resorts. Accommodation rates range from €45 to €1000 per night, depending on the size and type of room or apartment. The best thing about accommodations in Barcelona is that their rates don’t change much throughout the year because of the continuous flow of visitors in the city.

Barcelonan Climate

Autumn is the best time to visit Barcelona. The climate during this period is comfortably warm, around 21 to 25 degrees. During summer, the temperature in Barcelona is hot and humid, usually around 30 degrees or so. Winter in Barcelona is cool and sometimes rainy. The average day time temperature in Barcelona during this period is around +12 degrees.

Simon Jackson is the man behind the Channel Voyager. If you are planning a vacation abroad, don’t miss to check out his blog since he loves to share information about finding cheap hotels (interesting to know is that the Danish term is billige hoteller) worldwide.

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