From
sun-drenched coastlines to timeless cities, Spain offers a feast of
culture, cuisine, and adventure. Discover iconic landmarks, hidden
villages, and authentic local experiences in this ultimate Spain
travel bucket list.
Explore the Alhambra, Granada
The Alhambra’s rose-hued palaces, geometric tiles, and tranquil courtyards reveal centuries of Moorish splendor. Set against the snow-dusted Sierra Nevada, it’s a living poem of light, water, and craftsmanship. Wander through the Generalife gardens as jasmine scents the air and history whispers through every arch.
Sagrada Família, Barcelona
Gaudí’s vision rises like a cathedral carved from dreams - a kaleidoscope of spires, colour, and light. Inside, columns branch like trees beneath jewel-toned glass, creating a symphony of stone and sunlight. It’s Barcelona’s beating heart, merging spirituality and artistry into one breathtaking experience.
Seville’s Real Alcázar
This royal palace is a masterwork of Mudéjar design - delicate arches, arabesque tiles, and fragrant orange gardens that echo Andalusia’s layered history. Stroll through courtyards where Muslim, Christian, and Renaissance influences merge seamlessly in an architectural symphony. It’s a living testament to Seville’s golden era.
The Camino de Santiago
A path that transcends tourism, the Camino de Santiago winds through northern Spain’s vineyards, mountains, and medieval hamlets. Pilgrims walk for faith, reflection, or freedom - meeting locals and fellow travellers along the way. Reaching Santiago’s cathedral brings a profound sense of accomplishment and peace.
Park Güell, Barcelona
Gaudí turned imagination into landscape in this park of mosaics, serpentine benches, and lizard sculptures. Every colour and curve bursts with Catalan creativity, overlooking panoramic views of Barcelona. Once a private estate, today it’s an open-air gallery celebrating art, architecture, and nature’s harmony.
Mezquita-Cathedral, Córdoba
A spellbinding fusion of faiths, Córdoba’s Mezquita glows with endless striped arches and ornate domes. Built as a mosque and transformed into a cathedral, it reflects centuries of cultural dialogue. Its vast hall, bathed in soft candlelight, leaves visitors humbled and mesmerised.
Ibiza Old Town (Dalt Vila)
Above Ibiza’s party scene, the fortified old town reveals whitewashed charm, cobbled alleys, and sea vistas framed by ancient walls. From Phoenician roots to pirate legends, Dalt Vila feels timeless - best explored at dusk when its terraces glow and history feels alive.
Learn Flamenco in Seville
Feel the heartbeat of Andalusia through the art of flamenco - a fusion of rhythm, emotion, and passion. From the stamping of feet to the strum of guitar, it’s storytelling through movement. Taking a beginner’s class in Seville immerses you in local culture like nothing else.
Cook a Paella in Valencia
The birthplace of paella invites you to master this national dish. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn how saffron, fresh seafood, and smoky rice come together over open flames. It’s a warm, communal ritual that celebrates Spain’s culinary heart.
Join La Tomatina Festival, Buñol
Dive into the world’s most playful food fight as thousands of revellers hurl ripe tomatoes through Buñol’s streets. The chaos, laughter, and colour create an unforgettable summer spectacle that captures Spain’s joyful spirit.
Stay at a Parador
Experience Spanish history from within by staying in a Parador - heritage hotels set in castles, monasteries, or palaces. Each offers a unique connection to Spain’s architectural and cultural past, with views that belong on postcards.
Tapas Crawl in San Sebastián
In the pintxo bars of San Sebastián’s Old Town, culinary creativity meets casual dining. Bite-sized masterpieces line the counters - each one bursting with Basque flair. It’s a delicious way to socialise and savour regional flavours.
Ronda, Andalusia
Perched dramatically atop a deep gorge, Ronda enchants with its clifftop views, stone bridge, and timeless charm. Its history of bullfighters and poets lingers in every plaza. Perfect for slow exploration and panoramic photography.
Albarracín, Aragón
Often hailed as Spain’s prettiest village, Albarracín’s terracotta houses and medieval walls seem frozen in time. Its narrow lanes wind past watchtowers and flower-draped balconies, offering authentic rustic beauty.
Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, Almería
This wild coastal reserve blends volcanic cliffs, turquoise coves, and hidden fishing villages. Untouched and untamed, it’s a sanctuary for hikers, snorkellers, and solitude seekers alike.
Las Médulas, León
A surreal landscape of red hills sculpted by Roman gold mining, now covered in chestnut trees and trails. It’s both natural wonder and archaeological site, offering dramatic vistas and a peaceful escape.
Frigiliana, Costa del Sol
A whitewashed maze of cobbled streets and tiled steps, Frigiliana blends Moorish and Mediterranean charm. Flowers spill from balconies, and every corner reveals another breathtaking view of sea and mountains.
Setenil de las Bodegas, Cádiz Province
Built directly beneath giant rock overhangs, this village is a marvel of human adaptation. Cafés and homes tuck under the cliffs, creating a unique and atmospheric setting unlike anywhere else in Spain.
Visit the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
A titanium-clad sculpture of a building, the Guggenheim redefined modern art in Spain. Inside, vast installations and avant-garde exhibits captivate the senses, while the riverside exterior gleams like art itself.
Attend the Running of the Bulls, Pamplona
Adrenaline, tradition, and spectacle collide in San Fermín’s legendary festival. Even as a spectator, the rush of hooves through narrow streets is unforgettable.
Wine Battle of Haro, La Rioja
A festival that celebrates life and laughter - locals and visitors alike douse each other with red wine in friendly chaos. It’s pure, unfiltered Spanish joy.
Museum of Witchcraft, Zugarramurdi
Hidden in the Pyrenean foothills, this museum tells chilling tales of Spain’s witch trials. The nearby cave - once a site of secret rituals - adds mystery and intrigue.
Barcelona
• Stroll along Las Ramblas, alive with street performers and flower stalls.
Insider Tip: Visit early morning to avoid pickpockets.
• Watch sunset from Bunkers del Carmel for panoramic city views.
Best Way: Take bus V17 or hike from Park Güell.
• Explore El Born’s boutiques and tapas bars.
Good to Know: Closed Sundays - plan shopping midweek.
Madrid
• Tour the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s grandest.
Insider Tip: Visit Wednesdays for free entry (EU citizens).
• Stroll Retiro Park and rent a rowboat on its serene lake.
Best Way: Access via Retiro or Atocha metro stations.
• Enjoy churros at Chocolatería San Ginés.
Good to Know: Open 24/7 - perfect post-night-out treat.
Andalusia
• Discover white villages like Mijas and Arcos de la Frontera.
Insider Tip: Rent a car to explore at your own pace.
• Visit the Alpujarras mountains for hiking and artisan crafts.
Best Way: Base yourself in Lanjarón or Pampaneira.
• Explore Cádiz’s golden beaches and sherry bodegas.
Good to Know: Book tastings in Jerez ahead of time.
Do’s / Recommended Activities:
• Hike the dramatic Picos de Europa National Park - rugged trails, alpine lakes, and soaring peaks.
Tip: Early summer offers clear skies and fewer crowds.
• Go surfing in the Basque Country’s coastal towns like Zarautz.
Good to Know: Lessons available year-round for beginners.
• Cycle the Via Verde routes - scenic disused railways turned into bike paths.
Tip: Ideal for families and all fitness levels.
• Ski the Sierra Nevada near Granada for winter sun and snow.
Good to Know: Resorts open December to April.
Do’s / Recommended Experiences:
• Attend a traditional fiesta or feria for local music, food, and flamenco flair.
Tip: Dress smartly - locals take pride in presentation.
• Taste tapas the Spanish way - slowly, socially, with good wine and conversation.
Good to Know: In Granada, tapas are often free with drinks.
• Visit local markets like Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid.
Tip: Go early to see the freshest produce and artisan goods.
• Explore Spain’s art legacy - Prado Museum in Madrid or Picasso Museum in Málaga.
Good to Know: Free evening entry on select days.