Would you like to know the most popular vacation destinations in Spain? Discover in this article the places that everyone wants to visit in Spain. Cities, islands, mountains, walks, romantic spots, historical and fascinating places. The variety is immense, and will surely leave you impressed.

Catalonia: Barcelona, Girona and the Costa Brava

If you plan to visit the region of Catalonia, you can't miss its capital: Barcelona. A cultural and linguistic symbol, Catalonia's identity is closely linked to this city. Perfect for all kinds of travelers, including groups or families, Barcelona breathes life, art, and history. Take a stroll through its narrow and ancient streets, and get to know its secrets, or if you like shopping, go to Las Ramblas. Enjoy the works of Gaudí such as the Sagrada Familia, the Parque Güell, or the Casas Batlló and Milà La Pedrera. If you like to try new flavors, try tapas, Iberian ham, and accompany it with wine or cava. And if you like vibrant evenings, feel the heat of emotion at a Flamenco show.

There are many things to do and places to visit in Barcelona. A city that awakens the senses and the soul.

Did you enjoy the series "The War of Thrones"? And do you remember at the end of season 6 the trial of the queen who literally had to undress and circulate among the crowd? This scene you see above is real and corresponds to the cathedral in Girona. Many of the scenes from this series were filmed in this medieval city of Girona, not only in front of the Cathedral, but also in its streets with very unique characteristics. But there is much more to discover in this city!

After discovering Girona, we will head to the Costa Brava, on the northern side of Catalonia, where we will make a stop on picturesque villages. This village has the name "Costa Brava" which means abrupt coast because its coastline is rocky and fragmented and with a harsh landscape. Its coast is about 200km long and is bounded on the north by the Costa Vermelha and on the south by the Costa del Maresme. Include in your trip a visit to these Catalan coastal landscapes and a stop in Calella de Palafurgell, a traditional fishing village that retains all the charm of its past where you can also enjoy the typical local cuisine.

Pyrenees

The Pyrenees are the mountains that separate Spain from France. Maladeta is the highest point (3,404 meters) and is located in the Spanish province of Huesca. In fact, for much of the year these mountains are covered with snow unlike most of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula. It is an ideal destination for ski lovers, mountain hikers, or nature and landscape photography enthusiasts.

If you want to visit the Pyrenees from Barcelona, here is a short itinerary! The trip departs from Barcelona by minibus towards the ancient Roman city of Vic. Here you will visit the Market Square and the city center where you can see the Cathedral, the historic Renaissance and Baroque buildings and enjoy your breakfast. Then the tour heads to the town of Queralbs, the last village accessible by vehicle before reaching the Pyrenees and which is located at an altitude of 1236 meters! This small town with its typical stone houses and church has a train that allows you to climb to the mountains without any effort and where you can see the fantastic Vall de Núria!

The white mountains of the Pyrenees are a favorite winter destination in Spain.

Basque Country and Andorra

The Basque Country is located in northern Spain and borders France. Its capital is Bilbao (with its famous Guggenheim museum), and other important cities are San Sebastian, Biarritz and Donostia. A region of proud but hospitable inhabitants. And if you don't understand the language they speak, it is probably because you are listening to the Basque or Euskara language.

Enjoy a tour of the Biscay Coast where you can visit places like Getxo, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe set in the famous War of Thrones series, Bermeo, and Gernika which inspired Picasso's masterpiece.

Bicycle tours or a balloon ride are activities you can do in the Basque Country.

If you like wine culture, visit La Rioja to taste quality wines and learn more about their production. And to complete your gastronomic experience discover the difference between typical pintxos and tapas.

Would you like to visit three countries in one day? A tour starting in Barcelona takes you to France, Andorra and Spain. Start in Bagà where you will get to know the majestic rocky peaks of the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park. Next you will go to the spa town of Ax-les-Thermes in France. Next you will pass through Pas de la Casa, an incredible ski resort where you can take great pictures. And finally you will get to know Andorra and its capital Andorra la Vella located in the Pyrenees! On the return trip we will take a different route so that we can see the lakes and rivers on our way back to Barcelona!

Northern Spain: Galicia and Picos de Europa

The region of Galicia is located in the north of the country and is the westernmost region of continental Spain. Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, much of its tradition, culture and economy is linked to fishing and maritime or fluvial commerce. Origin of the Galician language, quite similar to the Portuguese language of northern Portugal, with which it shares affinities.

All the roads to Santiago lead to Santiago de Compostela and its imposing cathedral, one of the most famous Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Whether on foot or on tour, take the opportunity to visit this historic and spiritual place.

Other cities of interest are La Coruna, Betanzos or Vigo. Take the opportunity to get to know the Rías Baixas and its green and luxuriant scenery. Or feel the magic of Cape Finisterre and its lighthouse, with an incredible view of the Atlantic horizon. And try the excellent seafood, the region's gastronomic specialty.

The Picos de Europa are a mountain range situated in Asturias. It was in this region that the Christians took refuge and resisted the Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century. Besides the majesty of its mountains, waterfalls and rivers you can also visit Cangas de Onís, Covadonga or the city of Oviedo.

Cities close to Madrid: Segovia, Ávila and Toledo

Near Madrid, Segovia, Ávila and Toledo are 3 cities classified as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Segovia where you will get to know its historical center with its Plaza Mayor, the largest aqueduct in Europe, the royal palace and fortress called the Alcázar Real.

In Avila you will see its well-known walls that surround the historic center of the city and where you will stop for lunch. And in Toledo you will find a city with a long Christian, Jewish and Muslim tradition. This city is also known as the city of three cultures and you can see the Primate Cathedral of Santa Maria de Toledo, one of the most beautiful Roman Catholic churches in Spain. 3 cities well-liked by travelers!

Spanish Islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Tenerife

Spain has many islands, with the main groups divided between the Canary Islands in the Atlantic and the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Paradisiacal destinations for summer vacations, famous for their sun, heat and stunning beaches. In this article we highlight 5 islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Lanzarote which are Balearic islands; and Tenerife which is a Canary island.

Mallorca is the largest of the islands in the archipelago and its capital is Palma. There are several activities you can do such as cruises and boat or kayak tours, jet skiing, motorcycle or bicycle tours and even a helicopter aerial adventure. If you also like to explore, we recommend a visit to the Drach cellars, Miramar, Soller Valley or the Alfabia gardens.

Menorca is a smaller island than the previous one, but considered by many travelers to be the most beautiful. In its capital, Maó, visit its citadel or the fornells tower. As you can easily move around and discover the entire length of the island, take the opportunity to pass through local villages like Binibeca and places like Monte Toro. And did you know that Menorca is the birthplace of the Talaiotic Culture? A prehistoric culture thousands of years old, whose traces you can see.

Boat trips and water activities are obvious and recommended options.

Ibiza is a popular island for vacations and group travel looking for sun, sea and lots of fun. With a vibrant nightlife activity the last thing you want to do on this island is sleep. Take advantage of the day to take a cruise or a magnificent sunrise balloon ride.

The volcanic landscape is the hallmark of the island of Lanzarote, whether you arrive there by plane or boat. Lanzarote has become a tourist destination in recent years with many visitors. The Timanfaya national park or the Teguise market are places you should stop by. This island preserves the memory of famous artists, such as the writer José Saramago (Nobel Prize for Literature) or the multifaceted César Manrique, whose legacy you can appreciate.

Would you like to be on an island with beaches and mountains? Then the island of Tenerife is the perfect choice. Teide is the highest volcano in Spain with 3,715 meters, and it is possible to climb this mountain and dinner at the top, under a starry sky! And if you are looking for adventure you can go hiking, biking, motorcycle and jeep tours. Among the main attractions are the pyramids of Guimar or the Palmetum of Santa Cruz. If you are more into beach and sea, there is no shortage of cruises and water activities to do, and even a submarine experience. And to relax with fun, a day at the Aqualand, Siam or Loro water parks might be a good option.

Andalusia

Located in southern Spain, the name Andalusia derives from the Moorish word Al-Andalus, which referred to the territory occupied by the Muslims for centuries after their invasion in the 8th century. In fact, it is a region where several historical peoples have passed through, and its cultural richness reflects this. Cordoba, Granada and Alhambra, Cadiz are some of the cities with very rich material and immaterial heritage, which you should not miss if you are on vacation in the region. If Seville is a pearl of Andalusia, cities like Jerez de la Frontera, Ronda and the Pueblos Blancos are places that are also well worth your visit and stay.

An agricultural region, it is well known for its wine production. Take the opportunity to taste excellent wines and cava. You can do so in wine farms with a guided tour. Be sure to taste the rich gastronomy, such as Iberian ham or purple tuna. If you like outdoor activities, a walk in the famous Caminito del Rey is a good challenge.

And if you are looking for nighttime excitement, know that you are in the birthplace of Flamenco. An experience in the typical cuevas of Seville, where you can dine or have a drink, and experience the gypsy-inspired sound and dance, will always be memorable.

Costa del Sol

As the name implies, the Costa del Sol is located by the sea in southern Spain, facing Morocco. It is an excellent destination for those who like beaches and where you can enjoy a wide variety of landscapes of coastal geography.

Málaga, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Marbella or Estepona, are some of the best known cities where you can find accommodation.

If you are on the Costa del Sol you can take a break from the beaches and get to know the beautiful towns and villages of Andalusia. You can also visit Gibraltar, and enter the beautiful San Miguel caves, see wild monkeys and dolphins, or go shopping. Take the opportunity to step on African soil, in Morocco, on an excursion to Tangier from Seville, or from Tarifa.

Now that you know some of the most popular destinations in Spain, all you need to think about is the time of year when you will live these experiences! Take advantage of these selected destinations and go on an adventure!

To help you plan your trip, check out our Living Magazine-Blog and also our Living Tours website!