Spain is a country that feels like a love letter to travellers. Over the years, I’ve wandered its sun-drenched streets, hiked its rugged mountains, and soaked up its vibrant culture.
Hi, Im Matt Robson, travel guru and main content writer at SpainGuides.com.
Each visit feels like peeling back another layer of a beautifully complex story. So, let me share with you my favourite places—the ones that have left me speechless, inspired, and utterly in love.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your tenth, these are the best places to visit in Spain, as seen through my eyes.
1. Barcelona: Gaudí’s Playground
Barcelona is a city that dances to its own beat. The first time I laid eyes on the Sagrada Família, I was gobsmacked. Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece is a symphony of light, colour, and imagination. Pro tip: book your tickets online to skip the queue, and don’t forget to climb one of the towers for jaw-dropping views of the city.
Another Gaudí gem is Park Guell, a whimsical wonderland of mosaics, twisting pathways, and quirky sculptures. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city. But Barcelona isn’t just about Gaudí. I love getting lost in the Gothic Quarter, with its medieval streets and hidden plazas, and grabbing a bite at La Boqueria Market. Try the fresh juices and jamón ibérico—you won’t regret it.
For a hidden gem, head to Bunkers del Carmel, a lesser-known viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic and a quiet moment away from the crowds.
2. Madrid: The Heart of Spain
Madrid is a city that never sleeps, and I mean that in the best way possible. My first stop is always the Prado Museum, where masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya take my breath away. But if modern art is more your thing, the Reina Sofía is a must—Picasso’s Guernica is worth the visit alone.
When I need a break from the hustle and bustle, I head to Retiro Park. Rowing a boat on the lake or simply lounging under the trees is pure bliss. And let’s talk about the food. Mercado de San Miguel is a foodie’s paradise, with everything from croquetas to oysters. For a proper sit-down meal, Casa Lucio does the best huevos rotos (broken eggs) in town.
For a unique experience, visit Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain. It’s a surreal sight, especially at sunset when the temple is bathed in golden light.
3. Seville: Flamenco and Orange Blossoms
Seville is the kind of place that gets under your skin. The Real Alcázar is a feast for the senses, with its intricate Moorish architecture and lush gardens. I could spend hours wandering its courtyards and imagining the lives of the kings and queens who once walked these halls.
The Seville Cathedral is another must-see. Climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views of the city, and don’t forget to visit Christopher Columbus’s tomb inside. But what really stole my heart was the flamenco. Watching a performance in the Triana district is an emotional experience—raw, passionate, and utterly captivating.
And then there’s the food. El Rinconcillo, the oldest bar in Seville, is my go-to for tapas. Order the spinach with chickpeas and a glass of tinto de verano (red wine with lemonade), and you’ll be in heaven.
For a hidden gem, visit Metropol Parasol, a modern wooden structure known as “Las Setas” (The Mushrooms). Climb to the top for stunning views of the city, especially at sunset.
4. Granada: The Alhambra and Beyond
Granada is pure magic. The Alhambra Palace, a sprawling Moorish palace and fortress, is the star of the show. Walking through its courtyards and gardens, with the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, is nothing short of magical. Book your tickets well in advance—this place is popular for a reason.
After exploring the Alhambra, I love getting lost in the Albaicin, Granada’s historic Moorish quarter. The narrow, winding streets lead to hidden plazas and stunning views of the Alhambra at sunset. And don’t miss the chance to enjoy a free tapa with your drink at local bars—Granada is one of the few places in Spain where this tradition still thrives.
For a unique experience, visit Sacromonte, the traditional gypsy quarter. The cave houses and flamenco performances here are unforgettable.
5. San Sebastián: A Food Lover’s Dream
If you’re a foodie, San Sebastián will feel like heaven. This Basque gem is home to more Michelin stars per capita than almost anywhere else in the world. But you don’t need to splurge on fine dining to eat well here—the pintxos (Basque tapas) bars in the Old Town are out of this world. My favourites include Bar Txepetxa for anchovy-topped bites and La Viña for its legendary cheesecake.
Beyond the food, San Sebastián is stunning. La Concha Beach is one of the most beautiful urban beaches I’ve ever seen, and a hike up Monte Urgull offers breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
For a hidden gem, visit Peine del Viento, a series of sculptures by Eduardo Chillida that are dramatically set into the rocks by the sea.
6. Valencia: Where Old Meets New
Valencia is a city of contrasts, and I love it for that. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences feels like something out of a sci-fi movie, while the Historic Centre is a charming maze of medieval streets and baroque architecture.
But what really makes Valencia special is its connection to nature. The Turia Gardens, a park built in a former riverbed, is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or picnic. And let’s not forget paella—Valencia is the birthplace of this iconic dish, and there’s no better place to try it than at a beachside restaurant like La Pepica.
For a unique experience, visit El Carmen, Valencia’s bohemian neighbourhood. Its street art and quirky bars are a delight to explore.
7. Ronda: A Cliffside Wonder
Ronda is one of those places that takes your breath away—literally. Perched atop a dramatic gorge, this Andalusian town is famous for its Puente Nuevo, a bridge that spans the El Tajo canyon. Standing on that bridge, with the river far below and the mountains in the distance, is a moment I’ll never forget.
Ronda is also one of the oldest towns in Spain, and its Moorish and Roman roots are everywhere. The Arab Baths and Palacio de Mondragón are must-sees. And if you’re a wine lover, don’t miss the chance to sample local wines from the nearby Ronda Wine Region.
For a hidden gem, visit Casa del Rey Moro, a historic house with stunning gardens and a secret water mine that descends to the river below.
8. Ibiza: More Than Just Parties
Yes, Ibiza is famous for its nightlife, but there’s so much more to this Balearic Island. The Old Town (Dalt Vila) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with cobbled streets, ancient walls, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
For a quieter side of Ibiza, I head to the north of the island, where hidden coves and crystal-clear waters await. Cala d’Hort, with its view of the mystical Es Vedrà rock, is one of my favourite spots. And if you’re into yoga and wellness, Ibiza’s bohemian vibe makes it the perfect place to unwind.
For a unique experience, visit Sa Caleta, a quiet beach with ancient Phoenician ruins and a rustic seafood restaurant.
Final Thoughts
Spain is a country that keeps on giving. Every time I visit, I discover something new—a hidden village, a stunning landscape, or a dish that makes my taste buds sing. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a beach lover, or just someone looking for adventure, Spain has something for you. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible country. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
