Looking for the BEST things to do in Spain? Spain is a big country, and due to its unique history, it has so many magical things to see and places to visit.
We know Spain inside out. And certainly, One Week is not enough here.
This is the list of the coolest, most beautiful to visit and the top things to do in Spain. We take you from the North-East coast of Costa Brava all the way around the Spanish peninsula part.
Use this list as your comprehensive guide to the most exciting and diverse activities in Spain, ensuring your exploration of Spain’s best activities inspires your trip in the coolest way possible.
It does not matter if you are a luxury traveler, solo-traveler, a couple or family. This list has some Spain activities and things to see for all types of travelers.
We also visited non-touristic places in Spain. Some of them are easy to get to. You will feel like a true treasure-hunter once you visit these little gems on your own.
Okay, enough hablado, let’s get this fiesta started with our guide on what to do in Spain.
Good To Know: We also have a guide to the Most beautiful cities to visit in Spain.
- List of Best Things to do in Spain
- Swim in Clear Crystal Water in Dalí’s Hometown, Cadaqués
- Get to Know Dalí’s Work
- Sky Diving in Costa Brava
- See a Game of Thrones Set, Girona
- Architecture and Culture in Barcelona
- Find Peace at the Montserrat Monastery in Barcelona
- Go to a Hidden Beautiful Beach
- Amusement Park Near Barcelona
- Gorgeous Small Village, Siurana
- Find Peace at Delta del Ebro
- Peñíscola (or as well call it: Meereen!)
- Authentic Paella in Valencia
- Dinosaurs in Valencia
- Xàtiva
- Bocairent
- Sail Around the Balearic Islands
- Live It Locally in Castalla
- Tardeo Time in Alicante
- Visit a Pink Lake in Torrevieja
- Get Lost in an Unspoiled Paradise, Cabo de Gata
- Tapas with a View in Granada
- Build a Snowman in Sierra Nevada
- Meet Pablo Picasso in Málaga
- Brave the “Caminito del Rey”
- Take Photos in a Bullfight Field in Ronda
- Explore a White Village in Costa del Sol, Estepona
- Let It All Hang Out at Costa Natura
- Ghetto Tour in La Linea (with a Quick Detour to See Gibraltar’s Monkeys!)
- Learn Surfing in Tarifa
- Watch the Sunset in Cadiz
- Taste the King of Sherry in Jerez
- Sevilla Has a Special Colour
- Take an Arabic Bath in Córdoba
- Step Back in Time in Merida
- Marvel at the Prado in Madrid
- Get Lost in the Beauty of Picos de Europa
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Sample Pintxos in San Sebastian
- Check Out Some Wines in La Rioja
- Extra: Take One of the Famous Cemetery Tours
- Maps
- How to get around Spain
- FAQs
- Summary
List of Best Things to do in Spain
At the end of this article, I created a map with all the best things to do and to see in Spain. It can help you to plan your Spain itinerary.
Map: We created a huge map at the end of this article.
Here we included all cities and sights. That makes it easier for you to plan your Spain trip.
Now, let’s dive into the fun things in Spain that make every visit here unforgettable.
1. Swim in clear crystal water in Dalí’s hometown, Cadaqués
One of the most stunning fishing villages in the Wild Coast (Costa Brava) is also the place where Dalí got inspired during part of his life.
He was living there for many years. And many other artists got also inspired in Cadaqués, such as Picasso.
The best way to enjoy Cadaqués is to rent a car and stay there a couple of days. Beautiful sea surrounded by mountains, good food and a piece of inspiration.
If you are looking for a place to sleep, check out Blaumar, a nice hotel near the sea with also a swimming pool. Perfect place to disconnect from the world and connect with yourself.
2. Get to know Dalí’s work
Not far from Cadaqués, in Figueres, you will find Dalí’s Museum.
The building itself is already bizarre, but don’t miss the opportunity to get to know the work and world of this famous artist and go inside.
It is a Dali-crazy, a real opportunity to get to know Dalí’s world.
If you are staying in Barcelona and your time is limited, join this Salvador Dalí tour from Barcelona.
3. Sky diving in Costa Brava
Now that you are in one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean sea, what about seeing it from above and get your adrenaline level even higher?
Sky diving in Empuriabrava is on the top of the game, it is considered one of the most stunning sky diving experiences.
Do you dare to try? It is an unforgettable experience to do in Spain.
These are just 3 amazing things to do in Costa Brava, There is many more reasons to visit Costa Brava. Obviously, I prefer visiting in Summer.
One of the best and cheapest months to travel to Costa Brava is early June. It is the perfect time.
Prices are super low due to the season just starting, weather is fantastic and there is only very few tourists around.
Perfect timing!
4. See a Games of Thrones set, Girona
After we explored the Costa Brava, let’s head back into the country. Here we visit Girona.
It is known for its small, medieval village.
It was also a setting for the famous Games of Thrones.
For more ideas around Barcelona and Catalonia, read my article on 33 best day trips from Barcelona.
5. Architecture and Culture in Barcelona
After living in Barcelona for more than 5 years, we will always consider Barcelona our home. Even if we are far far away.
Barcelona has all you need for living a good life:
- beach,
- chilled vibes,
- stunning architecture,
- delicious food,
- fun nightlife…
Among its architectural marvels, a visit to Park Güell is a must.
Wanna discover all our favorite places?
Find all our information about Barcelona here.
6. Find Peace at the Montserrat Monastery in Barcelona
This iconic monastery was founded at the beginning of the 11th century by the Abbot of Ripoll and Bishop of Vic. They got it built inside of the multi-peak mountains just about 60 minutes by train from what is now the city of Barcelona.
The place offers gorgeous views and graceful rocky scenery with options of day hikes for people with restless feet.
Montserrat is an iconic Catalonian mountain and if you feel like skipping seeing the thousand years old monastery, which would be a shame, there are lots of other activities to do in Spain
For example, you can take a funicular to St Jerome – the highest peak of the mountain filled with tiny chapels (called ermitas), which were previously the homes of solitary monks.
Read: How to get to Montserrat Monastery
7. Go to a hidden beautiful beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Spain.
It requires a bit of hiking and “climbing” – it is 100% worth it. There is no bars or anything nearby to buy drinks and food. So please pack accordingly sun cream and especially water.
Here is our guide on how to get to Waikiki Beach.
Waikiki is not the official name of this hidden beach. The official name is actually “Cala Fonda”, but no one really calls it that.
8. Amusement park anyone? – Near Barcelona
The biggest Theme Park in Spain, and pure fun: Port Aventura!
It only opens from Spring to Autumn, so this is no option for the winter time.
The theme park has as well a water park and a special area for kids. And kids love it! Therefore, this is a great things to do in Spain with family too.
Good to know: I recommend to get the VIP ticket. This way you can skip any line and all the lines in the park, as many times as you wish.
It is more expensive but really worth it. You will end up in waiting lines for more than 1:30 hours. When counting this up, you waited a long time in one day.
Therefore, I will always get the VIP ticket for Portaventura.
9. Gorgeous small village, Siurana
Tucked in the mountains, away from the Mediterranean Sea you will find tiny S0iurana.
It is a gorgeous small village, surrounded by mountains for climbing and a few lakes. Come here for a day in nature and soak in Catalan culture.
I especially recommend coming here during the week, not on weekends, if possible.
On weekends the local people love to travel here as well.
10. Find peace at Delta del Ebro
Bird watching, kite surfing, and wandering. And of course: bike tours!
Delta del Ebro is a big national park and peninsula. It is the place to watch beautiful birds, including pink Flamingos.
WONDERFUL!
When the weather is playing its part you can do kite surfing here.It is known as one of the best spots for kite surfing in Spain.
Here you have perfect conditions.
The water is shallow, usually warm – just the wind has to be there. It’s not every day possible, but a lot of times.
There are a few guest houses dotted around the area. The most beautiful area is around Poble Nou. Here you find as well a few restaurants.
11. Peñíscola (or as well call it: Meereen!)
I had no idea, but this place called Peñíscola is actually the movie set for Game of Thrones’ Meereen.
I have seen it from far away and said right away it looks like Game of Thrones.
And I was right, yay!
This beautiful tiny village on a tiny peninsula itself with the little castle on the top is really picturesque. You can walk around in 30 minutes and you will have seen it all.
The castle only opens certain hours, so make sure to check the entrance time.
Good to know: They do have an Iron Throne (and you still can take a photo sitting on it for free!)
12. Authentic Paella in Valencia
Valencia is the home of the Paella and the third biggest city in the country.
Yes, this is the birthplace of the most famous dish in Spain. Sure, you can also eat magnificent paellas in Madrid, Córdoba, Sevilla, Barcelona.
Read: The best paella in Barcelona – 9 handpicked restaurants
But of course, it’s something different to try it directly in Valencia.
The most typical Paella is actually with rabbit meat. There are also vegetarian options, a fish paella, black rice paella, and only meat paella without the rabbit. There is also a mixed paella of fish and meat.
You see, there is paella for everyone.
Except maybe Vegans…
I have never come across a vegan paella. If you have any tip here, I appreciate it. Just drop me a comment below this article.
Besides food, Valencia has a stunning architecture and monuments to visit in the historic center.
Also interesting: The City of Arts and Science and Oceanografic.
This is another very interesting thing to do for families when visiting Spain.
13. Dinosaurs in Valencia
Spain’s third-largest city is also one of its most delightful. Content to remain in the shadows of Madrid and Barcelona, visitors to this coastal city are guaranteed to be taken by its unique charm.
This bustling and yet intimate city hosts Europe’s largest dinosaur exhibition, showcasing more than one hundred robotic life-sized creatures.
Whether visiting with the kids or with friends, this expo will transport you back to the fantastical time when these big beasts roamed the earth.
Housed in the City of Arts and Sciences, a visit to the dinosaur expo is one which will live long in the memory.
Read: 41 fun things to do in Valencia
14. Xàtiva
You already know the Chinese wall, right?!
How about I tell you there is a tiny version of Alhambra (the one in Granada) that looks a tiny bit like the Chinese wall?
The castle in Xativa is such a place.
The entry is only around 2.40€ and you have an amazing view over the area.
15. Bocairent
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Bocairent is a serious gem.
Read: The 41 most beautiful villages in Spain
Bocairent is located on a hill and it’s quite challenging to walk around since it always goes up or down. From the outside and inside, it is beautiful!
The highlight of sightseeing in Bocairent are two things:
- The caves
- the bullfighting stadium
The caves are actual caves that are more than a thousand years old. From the outside, you see only carved windows. You can enter (buy a ticket there). It is quite challenging to climb through the caves, you have to athletic and quite thin.
But no worries if you cannot do it. You can enter the entrance at least and the last part to get a feeling. It is worth it, really!
Then we head over to the stadium.
The bull stadium is nowadays only used for cinema and other events, there is no animal-cruelty anymore taking place here.
The stadium fits around 4.000 people – the same amount as the whole village of Bocairent.
The stadium lets you travel back in time, a real nostalgic feeling. Personally, I do not support any bullfights, this area is glorious to visit!
A few more impressions from Bocairent
16. Sail around the Balearic Islands
If you are looking for something both adventurous and secluded at the same time, a boat trip around the Balearic Islands will make you go nuts – in the best possible way.
Options for the route you take are unlimited.
You can explore the less occupied beaches of Mallorca, find peaceful shores of Ibiza, take guided tours to Menorca or all of them together: you can spend every single night on a different Island!
It costs around €250 – 400 a day to rent a sailing boat with 8 beds, a kitchen, and one or two bathrooms.
The only thing you’ll need to have is a captain!
Sailing is fun as long as you’re with somebody who knows their stuff.
After finding the hero who’ll take you around the warm and navy-blue Mediterranean waters, the adventure starts!
Be prepared to see some dolphins on the way.
Places we recommend to visit are a small private island called Tago Mago (tiny island near Mallorca) and the Caribbean of the Baleares: Formentera.
17. Live it locally in Castalla
The probability that you never heard about this place in Spain is very high, but don’t let that introduction stop you.
Castalla is a small city between Xàtiva and Alicante with few tourists and lots of interesting places around.
The most known for the locals around for its beauty and virginity is the National Park “Serra del Maigmó i Serra del Sit”.
If you just want to recharge your battery and enjoy the local life, stay in Castalla and just go to visit their cute Castle.
18. Tardeo time in Alicante
Alicante is not only home of one of the best Christmas treats in Spain, turrón de Xixona, it is also a place to enjoy the beach, the local life and join the groove no matter your age.
In Alicante, they have a strong culture of enjoying life.
Join their “Tardeo“, it is not a party, is a way of enjoying the weekend which consists of meeting friends and family for some drinks and fun.
After having lunch, go home and do a small nap “siesta”. Around 6 pm, you can just soak on one of the terraces and sip a cocktail.
If you fancy, around 7-8pm, you can go to a club for dancing.
There are many different bars and clubs, so I am sure you will find your place in Alicante.
19. Visit a Pink Lake in Torrevieja
Did you know there is a pink lake in Spain? It is located in Torrevieja, south of Alicante, and it is unreal (until you see it!)
This photo has not been photo-shopped, the lake is actually pink.
If you want to see a pink lake, there it is!
20. Get lost in an unspoiled paradise, Cabo de Gata
All the people who visited Cabo de Gata come with the same statement:
Once you see it you just want to revisit again and again.
Virgin beaches and protected dunes with magical vibes and even one of the most incredible music bars in the world.
Not only nature is impressive, but the vibes that are in Cabo de Gata trap you and translate you to a peaceful nice state of mind.
One of my favorite secret places to visit in Spain, Cabo de Gata stands out as a highlight among the things to see in Spain. Put it on your Spain bucket list!
Remember: All the beaches in Spain are free. One of the cheapest things to do in Spain that all locals do is simply going to a virgin beach and enjoy the full day there.
It is important to bring a sun umbrella, suncream, food and drinks (including lots of water!) for all day long if you plan a long day at the beach.
21. Tapas with a view in Granada
The choice is purely up to you.
If you plan to get the precious tickets to see one of the most fascinating castles in the whole of Europe, you should hurry up.
It’s not a well-kept secret that they get sold out months in advance.
If you fail to visit the medieval complex of palaces and castles of the Moorish lord who used to occupy Granada in the past, don’t you worry.
There is also another Alhambra which can also blow your mind. Yes, we are talking about the beer of the same name, and beer is anything but boring and ordinary in Granada.
Every beer you take in this stunning historic town comes with a small snack on a plate – the famous ‘tapa’.
The more beers you order, the more different tapas you get. It has to be the very best tradition in Granada.
One piece of travel advice – don’t get stuck in the center, explore the rural suburbs of Granada as the beer is cheaper and the tapas bigger over there! For a cool stay, have a look at these top hostels in Granada Spain. They are cheaper, good quality and more fun.!
22. Build a Snowman in Sierra Nevada
These are definitely the best mountains to ski in Spain! Just a hundred kilometers from one of the most crowded and hottest beaches on Andalusian coast, there is the Sierra Nevada, a huge mountain range covered in snow.
With its 106.8 kilometers, Sierra Nevada – a.k.a the Snowed Mountain Chain, is definitely one of the largest and most popular skiing resorts in Southern Europe.
Snow and sun!
What more could a winter sports fan wish to have?
Did you say a beach? Not a problem. You can change your ski wear for a tiny bikini in just 2 hours by car. You won’t get this rare combination of two different landscapes in many other places in Europe.
The location of Sierra Nevada is just a highly special place to be.
23. Meet Pablo Picasso in Málaga
Could you imagine a better to place to discover the life of the iconic artist than the master’s birthplace itself?
Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga on 25th October 1881 and he became one of the most important figures of the 20th century. If you’d like to see Picasso’s precise cubistic paintings then head up to the Picasso Malaga Museum.
The Buenavista palace, where the museum is located, was built in the 16th century and there are more than 280 artworks painted by the Spanish maestro on display. Don’t forget to visit the Plaza de la Merced with Casa Natal Museum – the Birth Museum of Pablo Picasso.
The Master’s astonishing artwork which traces the evolution of his style over the years attracts around 600,000 visitors per year.
Málaga is also one of the cheapest places to eat (really good) tapas in Spain.
Read: Where to stay in Malaga – the 3 best hostels in Malaga compared
24. Brave the “Caminito del Rey”
Not for vertigo sufferers, the Caminito del Rey (‘The King’s Little Pathway’) is a set of winding paths bolted onto the side of a gorge in the Malaga Mountains.
Once renowned as one of the most dangerous routes in the world after a spate of fatal accidents, the pathways have been reconstructed and modernized to provide a safe if nerve-jangling walking tour.
It is one of the most adventurous paths in Spain. Seriously!
The route got its name when it was opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, and you can follow in those royal footsteps and enjoy some breath-taking views when you stroll along these stunning walkways.
Important to know: Make sure you buy your tickets in advance.
They are normally sold out around 1 month before the date! The best way is to join a tour as they will assist you with the equipment and guide you through the path.
25. Take photos in a Bullfight field in Ronda
Spain is famous throughout the world for its bullfights, and love them or loathe them, the bullfighting arena in Ronda is one of the most beautiful in the whole country.
Modern bullfighting was invented in Ronda, and if you visit in September you will be able to catch some real-life action.
Even if the thought of bullfighting turns your stomach, a trip to this mountainous town should be on every traveler’s agenda.
The views are spectacular and the bridge linking the old and new parts of the town is just made for incredible Instagram shots.
Note: we do not support animal abuse either bullfighting activities.
26. Explore a white village in Costa del Sol, Estepona
One place that should not be missed on a trip down the Costa del Sol is the picturesque town of Estepona.
Unlike many of its neighbors, Estepona has managed to retain a real Spanish feel, especially in the white-washed streets of its Centro Historico. It is also a very relaxing place in Spain.
Estepona’s Old Town is only a few paces away from the bustling beach-front but it feels like taking a step back in time.
In just a few minutes you can take in the lovely Clock Tower, a 19th-century church, and Plaza de las Flores, before stopping for a bite to eat at one of the many traditional bars and restaurants in the area.
27. Let it All Hang Out at Costa Natura
On the outskirts of the coastal town of Estepona you will find the Costa Natura, Spain’s first official naturist resort.
Established more than 30 years ago, Costa Natura bills itself as ‘Europe’s friendliest family naturist resort’.
Today the resort consists of almost 200 apartments with a clothes optional swimming pool, restaurant and a beach which is open to the public. In the sweltering heat of a Spanish summer, Costa Natura may just be the ideal destination to let it all hang out!
Don’t be shy and let loose your inhibitions in this beautiful nature spot.
28. Ghetto Tour in La Linea (with a Quick Detour to See Gibraltar’s Monkeys!)
La Linea is considered to be the European version of Colombia, albeit in a less violent way. God knows if the next season of Narcos will be shot here, but there is so much charm underneath this ghetto face.
Dark tourism is on the crest of a wave and ‘LA’ as expat inhabitants call the city, might be a good ‘entry level’ destination.
It is estimated that there are 30 different drug cartels in La Linea and around, giving jobs to 3,000 people.
The best way to get to know the sad destiny of the so-called, ‘ugliest town of Spain’, is basically just to come over and walk around the city.
Some parts are unbelievable friendly and charming, other ones – especially on the north – can be a bit dangerous, so don’t walk alone. One of the pros of LA is the location.
It’s the only border town to Gibraltar, UK’s overseas territory.
After your short but intense ghetto tour, cross the border and hike up the magnificent Gibraltar rock. One of the tourist attractions in Spain is the macaques living there, Europe’s only wild colony of apes.
29. Learn Surfing in Tarifa
The best wind blows in Tarifa, a paradise for all surfers!
This charming town was built directly at the southernmost point of Continental Europe where the Mediterranean Sea greets the Atlantic Ocean.
There are dozens of surfing schools in Tarifa, you just have to choose which of the water sports you’ll try – surfing, kite surfing or windsurfing.
Apart from the positive wind, long golden sands beaches, cool & tanned people, Tarifa offers also a nice dining experience and busy nightlife.
The streets in summer are packed! This place is perfect for solo travelers.
The hippie spirit of the place is friendly and yeah, surfers are hot!
If you travel alone but you need somebody to talk to, go to Tarifa old town and meet people from around the world wearing flower shirts and flip-flops.
If you want to learn kitesurfing, you can find many famous kitesurfers in this area, some of them even have kitesurf schools, where they do show you how to master the kite tricks that brought them to the podium.
I totally recommend Alex Pastor kitesurf school even if you are a beginner.
Toni, Alex, Karolis, and the rest of the team are not only great teachers but also really nice people with insightful travel tips to enjoy your holidays in Tarifa.
30. Watch the Sunset in Cadiz
Sunset lovers all around the world, pack your backpacks right now and head up to a fascinating south-westerly Spanish town called Cadiz.
Small in size but rich in history, Cadiz is more than just a lovely town packed with narrow streets and graceful buildings. Cadiz, because of its ocean location and unique shape, used to be one of the most important ports in the world in ancient times.
You can find Roman theatre, Muslim mosques, medieval walls, gothic mansions, and neoclassical cathedrals just a few minutes from each other. And it’s not just the architecture which blows your mind away.
It’s the famous Caleta beach which featured in the Bond movie ‘Die Another Day’ and the sun setting slowly and magnificently, painting blood all over the sea and sky.
The Caleta can be massively crowded in the evenings, but even if there are a hundred people packed together, the place is quiet and peaceful.
Sunsetters just stand, sit or lay down watching the best performance starring just the Sun, sky & the Atlantic Ocean.
Once you’ve seen it you will never forget the power of Cadiz’s sunset.
31. Taste the King of Sherry in Jerez
So just as people travel to Tuscany to explore the world of wines, they wander around the Andalusian town called Jerez de la Frontera to taste genuine sherry!
Stored in wooden barrels, this fortified wine is a must-taste experience when visiting the south of Spain.
The perfect location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cadiz mountains gives the local grapes Palomino, Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel the specifics needed for the ideal sherry manufacturing process.
You can experience the process of making sherry and taste its various flavors and types almost at every corner of Jerez. There are dozens of bodegas – wine cellars – offering its visitors unique wine tasting experiences.
One of the most popular ones is bodega Gonzalez Byass pouring liters of sherry to nearly 100,000 visitors a year.
32. Sevilla has a special colour
That Sevilla has a special colour is not just a song title, it is a well-known fact.
Pssst…in the English language the city is called “Seville” – with an ‘e’ at the end. We still stick to the Sevilla.
This beautiful Spanish city is considered one of the must-do cities to visit in Spain for its cheerful character, its food, and the famous “Feria de Abril”. On this fair, you will be able to:
- see many people dancing traditional Sevillanas (different from flamenco show but equally beautiful),
- taste delicious tapas and
- have fun as a real Spanish local.
This Fair is more popular every year so my recommendation is to visit it as soon as possible.
It is always in April.
33. Take an Arabic Bath in Córdoba
Do you enjoy visiting medieval towns and spas?
If so, there is no better place for you to stop by than Córdoba. Why?
Well, here you can find the largest Arabic baths in the whole of Europe.
The reason is purely political – Córdoba used to be the capital of Muslim emirate and powerful guys love to unwind and ease their stressful lives in hot baths!
Even in the hectic days of the 21st century, everyone deserves a lovely bubbly treat now and again.
Enjoy the gift of divine water and relax surrounded by the most delicate scents in one of the Córdoba’s Arabic baths.
After your physical and spiritual cleansing put on some walking shoes and discover the corners of the city whose pillars were built by Romans more than 2,000 years ago.
Note: In Córdoba, you will find a “Mosque-Cathedral”! I still don’t understand why this emblematic building in Córdoba is not a top sight in Spain, as it is simply stunning.
34. Step Back in Time in Merida
The Ancient Romans are one of many civilizations to have left their mark on Spain, nowhere more so than in the capital of Extremadura in the West of the country.
Mérida has been inhabited since pre-historic times and had become one of Rome’s most important cities by around 2,000 years ago.
This city of 40,000 people boasts the most spectacular and complete Roman ruins to be found anywhere in Spain and is a must-see for ancient history buffs.
Most impressive of all the structures is the incredible amphitheater which once hosted gladiatorial battles and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993.
35. Marvel at the Prado in Madrid
Spain’s capital city is home to many cultural delights and art museums, but chief among these is the world-famous Prado museum.
This is Spain’s national art museum and is credited with having the greatest collection of European artworks in the world.
The works of Goya, Bosch, El Greco, Valazquez, and Reubens are among those displayed here, making this museum one of the most visited buildings anywhere in the world.
Works which cannot be missed include:
- Las Meninas by Valazquez,
- Goya’s black paintings and
- The Garden of Earthy Delights by Hieronymus Bosch.
Read: 23 fun things to do in Madrid
Make sure you read our neighborhood guide on where to stay in Madrid as first-timers.
36. Get Lost in the Beauty of Picos de Europa
The Peaks of Europe are one of the largest mountain ranges in the whole of the ‘old continent’.
They are 20 kilometers in length and Torre de Cerredo, which is the highest peak, stretches up to 2.6 kilometers at its pinnacle.
Imagine Switzerland wearing a flamenco dress and you get an idea of what to expect from the Picos!
This sentence probably wouldn’t make the Northern Spaniards happy at all, but it is pretty accurate. Picos de Europa occupy the territories of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León, all Autonomous Communities of Northern Spain where flamenco has never been a big deal.
Anyway, the mountains are picturesque and offer you dozens of trekking routes, astonishing scenery and what’s more important, genuine touches of nature.
Don’t bring your bottles, they say there are liters of fresh and delicious drinking water around every pico!
Don’t forget to check out all the lovely rural villages, cute cows chilling on the green pastures and some pretty awesome views from the Fuente Dé cable car.
37. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s most famous attraction, and the exterior is almost as breath-taking as what is inside its walls.
The curved metallic building has attracted plaudits as one of the most beautiful structures ever designed, and within it hosts exhibitions by contemporary artists.
These exhibitions change regularly but are guaranteed to enthrall, and no visit to Bilbao is complete without stopping by this iconic landmark building.
38. Sample Pintxos in San Sebastian
Known as ‘tapas’ in the rest of Spain, in the Basque country they have a local variation called ‘pintxos’.
The word Pintxo means ‘pinch’ and comes from the way these small treats are traditionally served:
Pinched through with a cocktail stick.
San Sebastian has long been a tourist magnet thanks to its pristine white sandy beaches and is famous throughout Spain for its culinary delights.
This is a city which can boast no fewer than 16 restaurants with a Michelin star, and two restaurants which were listed in the best 50 in the world.
However, you can enjoy delicious pintxos in even the humblest of bars and cafes in this beautiful city.
39. Check Out Some Wines in La Rioja
Not a big fan of Spanish sherry?
No problem, the red wine tours in Basque country will definitely compensate for that.
We all know that this part of Spain is really anything but Spanish, although it’s definitely one of the most eccentric places in Iberia.
And the Rioja which grows there is worth a sinful glass or two.
The Basque region is basically a long coastline along the Bay of Biscay and so the wines which are produced there are fresh and light. One of the most popular wines is Txakoli, a zesty and fresh white wine, low in alcohol.
It perfectly matches the seafood cuisine of the Basque coast.
What better way of making friends with one of the oldest cultures in the whole of Europe than by praising their wines?
40. Extra: Take One of the Famous Cemetery Tours
Yes, you’ve read that right, there is no typo in that header.
Cemetery tours are nothing unusual on the Iberian Peninsula. In fact, they tend to be vivid, active and energetic, even although they take place in areas which commemorate the end of life on Earth.
Cemeteries are not quiet and peaceful places over here.
Spanish people love to bring life back to places where their beloved families and friends should normally, according to most cultures, rest in peace. It might sound a little creepy, but you can go to see a gig over there, you can play with children, have a walk or just to read a book (at least in Andalusia).
Spanish cemeteries, especially those in the north, also offer plenty of cultural artifacts and historical heritage.
The most beautiful ones are in:
- the Basque country (the cemetery of Bilbao),
- Asturias (La Carriona municipal cemetery),
- Cantabria (Ciriego cemetery),
- Catalonia (Vilanova i la Geltrú) and
- Málaga (Casabermejo cemetery)
Map of all BEST Things to do in Spain
Wanna start planning your trip to Spain and don’t know where to start?
We put all those awesome places to visit in Spain on a map.
This way, it will be easy for you to plan a route and include some of the amazing experiences in Spain we mentioned.
Just click on the map, we add useful links and places.
How to get around Spain?
Getting around Spain is fairly easy.
There are two main ways: You can either take the train along the scenic coastline or you rent a car.
1. Taking the train: You can book your tickets as you go.
There are a few offers you can always get with the official Renfe train ahead of time.
2. Renting a car: I recommend taking the land road, instead of the highway with tolls.
You avoid the tolls and you are almost as fast as taking the highway. The land road goes almost parallel to the paid highway.
FAQs
What are some top activities to do in Spain?
Swim in Cadaqués, visit Dalí's Museum in Figueres, sky dive in Costa Brava, explore Game of Thrones sets in Girona, and enjoy Barcelona's architecture and culture.
Is Spain suitable for all types of travelers?
Yes, Spain offers activities and sights for luxury travelers, solo travelers, couples, families, and even those seeking non-touristic experiences.
What are some unique experiences in Spain?
Unique experiences include visiting the pink lake in Torrevieja, exploring the white village of Estepona, taking a ghetto tour in La Linea, and enjoying tapas with a view in Granada.
What are the best ways to get around Spain?
You can either take the train, which is scenic and efficient, or rent a car, preferably taking the land roads to avoid tolls and enjoy parallel routes to highways.
Summary
I hope this guide, packed with fun things to do in Spain, helps you plan your perfect adventure.
This travel guide offers a comprehensive list of the best activities and attractions in Spain, suitable for all types of travelers. It includes unique experiences like swimming in the crystal waters of Cadaqués, exploring Dalí’s Museum in Figueres, skydiving in Costa Brava, visiting Game of Thrones locations in Girona, and enjoying the rich culture and architecture of Barcelona.
Whether you’re interested in adventurous activities, historical sites, culinary delights, or serene natural landscapes, this guide provides a well-rounded itinerary for an unforgettable Spanish adventure.
For more detailed information and tips, be sure to check out our other travel guides to Spain.
- Barcelona: Read our guide to 7 days in Barcelona and where to stay in Barcelona.
- Madrid: Read our guide to 7 days in Madrid and where to stay in Madrid.
Guides to Spain
I hope this guide, packed with fun things to do in Spain, helps you plan your perfect adventure.
Here are more useful Spain guides to traveling around Peninsula.
About the Author
This article was written in cooperation with Lena. On her travel blog Lena writes about her solo trips and also about her journeys with friends.
She traveled Spain extensively and enjoyed her time from beach to beach and tapa to tapa. Read her Blog We Solo Travel for more travels around Spain and Europe.
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