The 20 most beautiful places to visit in Spain

The most beautiful places in Spain you must absolutely visit and discover!

Rare are the travellers who did not go to Spain at least once. And because of this, the country is second in the ranking of world tourist destinations. Yet it is often the same places we visit: the capital Madrid, the Catalan Barcelona, the Costa Brava for the summer holidays or the Andalusian Seville.

Only here, Spain has more to offer. Rich in an exciting history, at the crossroads of the Arab-Muslim and Latin-European worlds, it allows to cross the history of one region to another and cross... the world! Many sites and monuments in the country are now classified as UNESCO’s World Heritage, both cities and Spanish nature are full of wonders to be discovered.

To help you in your Iberian adventures, we have prepared a list of the 20 most beautiful places to visit in Spain!

1. Grenada and its Alhambra

Granada is located in the east of Andalusia. It was the last city reconquered by the Spanish Catholics in 1492, after several hundred years of Arab-Muslim reign. Thanks to this influence, the city has an impressive and fascinating architecture, whose Alhambra is the pride. This fabulous palace and gardens are classified as UNESCO World Heritage. It is one of the major monuments of Islamic and Moorish architecture. The Alhambra is divided into four main parts, within a fortified enclosure: the Alcazaba (the fortress), the nasrides palaces (the last Arab dynasty in the region), the Generalife and the gardens, and finally the palace of Charles Quint (added by the conquerors of the Castillans).

2. San Sebastian

Not far from the well-known Bilbao is San Sebastian, in the middle of Basque country . This city with sophisticated architecture is facing the azur blue of the ocean with beautiful white sand beaches. It is also an essential gourmet destination in terms of visiting. Here, no tapas, but pintxos – the Basque version of the famous Spanish tapas.

3. Playa del Silencio

The most beautiful beach in Spain is located in Asturias in the northwest of Spain. It deserves the detour both by its picturesque beauty and by its clear waters, which reflect the sky. The tranquility of the place gave it its name: the Beach of Silence.To reach the Playa del Silencio, you must go to the village of Castañares. Then you have the choice to go by car or by foot. The path is long, but it is worth it: the view on the beach is breathtaking. The coast of Cudillero is unique, with sumptuous cliffs and small islands, a remarkable and spectacular show.

4. Carmona

A 30-minute drive from Seville, Carmona presents itself as the competitor of the Andalusian capital in terms of history and culture, despite its smallest size.Looked with a fascinating preserved heritage, it was first founded by the Carthaginians before being conquered by the Romans who built a Roman necropolis in the 1st century, considered a major Roman monument of Andalusia. The city also has many medieval gates, Baroque palaces and Moorish fortresses that tourists do not tire of visiting. In the evening, the city is animated and you can enjoy delicious tapas in picturesque little shops.

5. Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle and her pilgrimage

Are you wondering what else to do in Spain? How to discover the country to visit it from a unique perspective? The pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela offers you this possibility. He is to do at least once in his life to truly apprehend the Spanish riches. The path from the French Pyrenees to the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela makes you travel picturesque places, discover the local life and the art of living in Spanish. If you are not a long-distance lover, visiting the city of Santiago de Compostela is already a huge step. The capital of Galicia and medieval city, the architecture of the city is simply magnificent. The baroque cathedral, the point of arrival of the pilgrims, is the perfect example! We advise you to take part in the feast of Saint Jacques every 25 July: it is one of the best festivals in Spain.

6. Islas Cies

Off Galicia, you will find the islands of Cies. The archipelago has three main islands: San Martiño, Do Faro and Monteagudo. Each of them has incredible and fascinating landscapes. Exploring them can take whole days: forests, vertiginous cliffs, caves, small islets and golden beaches... The diversity of places and landscapes make the Cies Islands a unique place to visit in Spain.

7. Zaragoza

Capital of Aragon, Zaragoza is a fabulous medieval and historical city located in the South of the Pyrenees, right next to Catalonia. The architecture of the city is surprising, combining different eras and styles. The most emblematic monuments are the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, as well as its bridge of Peter, which spans the Ebro. Nothing better than to taste succulent tapas in the small streets of the city, then to browse the banks of the Ebre to admire the lights of the city and the sparkling waters. Visiting Spain without stopping in Zaragoza would be a shame!

8. Ordesa National Park and Mont-Perdu

The Ordesa National Park and Mont-Perdu is one of the most beautiful reserves in Europe, which will offer you exceptional walks and hikes. The way through the Ordesa Canyon to the gigantic ochre cliffs is one of the most incredible to go. It follows the waters of the Arazas rio, which form successions of splendid cascades! With its canyons among the deepest in Europe, its depopulated Pyrenean valleys and its numerous waterfalls, the Ordesa National Park and Mont-Perdu represents one of the natural jewels of Spain, on the border with France and not far from Zaragoza.

9. Segovia

What to do in Spain and also during your stay in Madrid? Visit the historic city of Segovia, of course! Located in the northwest of the capital, Segovia has a superb architectural heritage: medieval walls, Romanesque churches, a royal palace and a magnificent Gothic cathedral. One of the most fascinating monuments in the city is the perfectly preserved aqueduct. The Romans ruled Spain for more than 700 years, they enamelled the Iberian peninsula of architectural treasures that houses this aqueduct. Good to know: Segovia is just two hours train from Madrid.

10. La Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada, the snowy mountains in French, is a chain of Andalusian mountains. It is the second largest massif in Europe after the Alps, with the Mulhacén peak at 3,478 metres above sea level. Declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, Sierra Nevada National Park is worth visiting in Spain. You will discover a unique fauna and flora, unique to the Iberian Peninsula. At the foot of the mountains you will also find Las Alpujurras, a region populated by thermal springs, small white houses, hams serrano and tortuous goat paths. Do you like mountain and hiking, you wonder what to do in Spain? La Sierre Nevada is the answer. These mountains are unique and to contemplate at least once in his life!

11. Las Palmas

We leave the continent for the Canary Islands, where is the sublime island of Las Palmas. Off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a set of Spanish islands with fantastic volcanic landscapes. Las Palmas is probably the most beautiful of all, with its rocky and woody landscapes, sprinkled with volcanoes like Cumbre Vieja or Teneguía. The main and capital city of the island, Santa Cruz de Las Palmas, is a fabulous port city. The narrow paved streets, the houses with wooden balcony and the marine air are so many small things that make the charm of Santa Cruz and that will envy you. La Palma is home to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. Covered with pine forests, the latter is covered by sparkling waterfalls. A unique place to visit in Spain!

12. Toledo

In the heart of Spain reigns Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986. The city has many historical sites. It was known as the “Imperial City”, for the seat of the court of Charles Quint, Germanic Roman Emperor and King of Spain. The most sought-after monuments in terms of visit are the Castillo de San Servando (a medieval castle overlooking the Tage), but also the Cathedral of Toledo, the Church of Saint-Thomas or the Alcázar!

13. Barcelona

Second city of Spain and one of the most visited, Barcelona has an indisputable charm. Whether its location on the Mediterranean, its iconic architecture or its international atmosphere, everything is enchanting in Barcelona. Unmissable monuments are of course La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell . And for partying and having fun in Spain , nothing better than the beautiful Catalan city of Barcelona!

14. Madrid

If you have planned to visit Spain, Madrid is one of the most beautiful destinations – especially if you are looking for a disappointing city for a weekend. On the menu: Prado Museum , the majestic Royal Palace of Madrid or the charming park of Retiro. The city is full of monuments and tourist attractions to discover with delight. Speaking of delights, you will find many small tapas restaurants in the city centre, as well as lively bars where you can enjoy the time of an evening. The capital of Spain lacks energy.

15. Bilbao

Known for its Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, Bilbao is one of the most amazing cities you will find in Spain. Located in the heart of the Basque country, this port city is a must-see cultural destination. In addition to the Guggenheim, the city hosts numerous museums such as the Archaeological and Historical Museum of the Basque Country or a Museum of Fine Arts, whose permanent collection is composed of local works.

16. Valencia

Located on the east coast of Spain, Valencia is not missing attractions. Known for its City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex with many animations, the city also has a particularly charming Old Town, where you can enjoy a succulent paella – a dish from Valencia !

17. Palma de Mallorca

This is the second Palma of this top 20 of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain. Palma, the main city of Mallorca, has an impressive historical heritage. A highly strategic place in the Mediterranean Sea, the island was coveted by all powers. It thus welcomes architectural treasures like the royal palace of Almudaina, the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca or Roman arenas, among other wonders. The island of Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearic Islands, is dream destination to enjoy the sun and the sea. In addition to its beautiful beaches and coves where to swim, the island has incredible landscapes and breathtaking views.

18. Cordoba

Major city during the Roman Antiquity and the Middle Ages, Cordoba is best known for its magnificent Mezquita, the mosque-cathedrale , which testifies to the rich history of the city and the region. It was the heart and capital of the califat of Cordoba, during the golden age of Muslim domination over Spain. Other famous monuments are also to be discovered as the Roman bridge, enjoining the Guadalquivir, the palace of Christian kings or simply the Old Town of Cordoba, classified as the World Heritage of UNESCO.

19. Seville

If you are wondering what to do in Spain, then we have the answer: visit Seville, the capital of Andalusia, probably one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Spain. Seville is famous for its historical and architectural heritage or its vibrant flamenco culture.During your stay, we advise you to visit the Alcazar as well as its gardens – a perfectly preserved example of mudéjar architecture, dating from the Muslim era, but also to lose you in the alleys of the Old Town to appreciate all the life and beauty of the Andalusian city. To complete your visit, don’t hesitate to attend a flamenco show.

20. La Rioja

Rioja is the wine region in Spain. She'll enchant all wine lovers. If you visit the Rioja, the programme will be simple and delicious: discoveries of local wineries and vineyards, but above all, wine tastings and tapas. The capital of the region, Logroño, represents the perfect base camp to explore the surrounding areas. Its picturesque city centre also houses many tapas bars.

Now you know what to do in Spain! We can only advise you to include these unmissable and unique places of their kind when visiting Spain.