Just the thought of Spain can trigger a fire within: it’s the home of matadors, flavourful tapas and paella, sensual flamenco and the life-changing el Camino de Santiago de Compostela (a nearly 805km pilgrimage that will have your calves burning but your soul at peace).
Spain is both a visual and culinary treat – dramatic mountainside towns, impressive surfing and coastal beaches, decadent architecture and gourmet delights. Locals speak of not one Spain but many (Las Españas), since each corner of this country has its own distinct culture, attractions and vibe: from Madrid to the Costa del Sol, the high Pyrenees to the Moorish-influenced Alhambra, or the fiercely proud Basque region.
Spain also plays host to some of the world’s best-known festivals: Valencia's Fallas effigy burning, the infamous – and dangerous – Running of the Bulls in Pamploma, and the tomato-throwing festival La Tomatina at Buñol.
A highlight of Madrid is its galleries: the Prado, Reina Sofia and the Thyssen-Bornemisza are home to Picasso’s “Guernica” or “Las Meninas” by Diego Velázquez, and works by Dalí, Rembrandt, Monet and Renoir, among others.
Barcelona is also famous for its art, although here it’s more often displayed in the streets rather than galleries. The city oozes Catalan creativity from every corner, from Gaudí’s landmark Sagrada Família church and mosaic-laden Parc Güell, to the ultra-popular waterfront redevelopment.
Still not tired of art or architecture? Head to Bilbao – it’s the site of Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum, a metro designed by Norman Foster and an airport by Santiago Calatrava.
Even if you’re tight on time, visit Seville. The capital of Andalusia is the fourth largest city in Spain and boasts three Unesco World Heritage Sites. One of the most spectacular is the Reales Alcázares palace, built for its Moorish Muslim king. The surrounding gardens and fountains are particularly peaceful on a warm day – and a great place to people watch.
Arts + Culture Lovers; Backpackers/Budget Travellers; Beach Bums; Foodies; History Buffs; LGBTQ-friendly; Religious Travellers; Road Trippers; Self-Improvement/Health Travellers; Special Events + Parties
