Spain is one of the most popular and sought-after tourist destinations among residents of our country. Why do tourists love Spain so much? In this wonderful region, hot summer reigns most of the year, which is extremely important for the inhabitants of our country’s not-so-warm and sunny latitudes.
In addition, Spain is a country with incredible interesting story And rich culture th - it was here that many world-famous painters (for example, the surrealists Dali and Picasso), poets and writers were born and worked (just remember the passionate poems of Garcia Lorca). Spain is also an incredibly beautiful region, rich in natural attractions.
A place that is definitely worth visiting for lovers of history and primitive culture. In the Altamira cave, tourists can see a truly unique phenomenon - the oldest drawings of primitive people, which depict huge buffalos, horses and other animals surrounding ancient man. According to archaeologists and researchers, the Altamiran rock carvings are 14 thousand years old.
Currently, the Altamira Cave is open to the public, but getting there is quite difficult for tourists - you need to make an appointment in advance, otherwise there is a risk of missing out on the ticket.
When talking about the beauties of Spain, we primarily mean natural attractions. Picos de Europa (or Peaks of Europe) – massive Mountain chain , stretching across the northeastern regions of the country. The mountains are superbly explored and explored; there are many hiking routes of varying degrees of difficulty. Along the way, breathtaking landscapes open up to your eyes. Tourists who have explored Picos de Europa are completely delighted.
The place is definitely worth a visit for lovers of hiking, mountaineering and rock climbing, as well as all those who cannot live without incredible beauty natural species. The traveler will find majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, emerald meadows and untouched forests, as well as the opportunity to see rare animals and birds in their natural habitat.
The next attraction is not located on mainland Spain, but on an island Majorca, also quite popular among travelers from all over the world. It is famous for its natural beauty and developed and accessible infrastructure. The capital of the island, Palma de Mallorca, will amaze the traveler with its ancient architecture, ancient castles and houses and graceful turrets. But outside the capital there is also a lot of interesting things to do.
One of the main attractions spanish island Mallorca - Galatzo Nature Reserve. It is comfortably located in a valley of massive mountains and delights tourists with excellent views wildlife. Picturesque green forests, rocks, as well as stunningly beautiful waterfalls - this is what tourists are invited to admire in Galatzo Park.
It is worth noting that the park operates a tourist route, as well as a variety of entertainment and leisure options.
In order to see this amazing place, you will again have to leave the mainland and go to Gran Canaria island– one of the most picturesque in Spain. Gran Canaria, by the way, is an island of volcanic origin; in fact, it is solidified lava.
The Caldera de Bandama is an inactive crater of an ancient volcano, last eruption which, according to sources, happened several thousand years ago. You can go down into the crater - it is completely safe, since the volcano is not considered active. But the most spectacular views of the Caldera de Bandama open from above.
In the immediate vicinity of the volcano there are small picturesque villages of winemakers and farmers. Fans of pastoral landscapes should visit one of the villages to enjoy the peaceful views and communication with the temperamental and hospitable Spaniards.
One of the most popular attractions in Catalonia is the small rock islands of Medas, located near the resort town of L’Estartit. Islands are considered nature reserve and are under guard. For this reason, unfortunately, tourists are not allowed to land on the territory of Medas, but they are allowed to view them from the water.
It is advisable to bring binoculars, as the island is inhabited by many rare birds, and watching them is incredibly interesting. The unusual relief of the rock islands deserves attention. And, of course, the water around the islands is azure, transparent, and very clean. No wonder the Medas Islands are considered the most beautiful in Catalonia.
The garden is located near the coastal town of Blanes. According to travelers' reviews, it is incredibly beautiful, quiet place. It is here that tourists can admire the flora of Spain - delightful bright flowers, majestic trees and shrubs. The garden is a riot of colors, but the main color here is emerald green.
You can refresh your knowledge of botany and escape the Spanish heat in the shade of trees in the Marimurtra garden.
The ancient capital of Spain is famous for its extraordinary exquisite ancient architecture. The city successfully manages to preserve its historical appearance and ancient buildings even today, in the 21st century.
Here at every step there are amazing buildings: huge ancient castles, cathedrals and churches made in the Gothic style, turrets, exquisite arches and many more beautiful structures. It is worth noting that Madrid also boasts beautiful modern architecture adjacent to ancient houses.
An ancient Spanish city built many centuries ago. During the Arab rule he was capital of Spain. The city is interesting because of how different cultures are intertwined in it - Christian and Muslim. Here you can see Catholic cathedrals, Muslim mosques, and Jewish synagogues, which are centuries old.
Cultural center of Spain. Major universities and academies are located here. The architectural appearance of the city is interesting - here, along with ancient Gothic and Romanesque buildings, modern buildings made in the spirit of Art Nouveau peacefully coexist.
Barcelona is much more popular than all other cities in Spain. Here, literally at every step, there are incredible architectural sights and historical monuments: ancient architecture, medieval cathedrals and churches, luxurious squares, cobbled streets - all this amazes the traveler and makes him fall in love with Barcelona forever.
Spain is a pleasant surprise for those who love the scorching rays of the sun, huge beaches, bullfighting and flamenco. The country has many castles, unique villages, and Barcelona and Madrid can be called the main tourist magnets of the country. I suggest you take a tour of the most interesting sights in Spain. If you have already visited any of these places, share your impressions, reviews and photos in the comments, and participate in the discussion. You can also add other places to the list that you consider more interesting and worthy of attention.
Magnificent palaces, sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, passionate flamenco in the squares, the beaming faces of pilgrims in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela - there is something about the sights of Spain that you will not find anywhere else in the world. They represent the country's turbulent history, rich culture and enchanting natural beauty of the Spanish countryside. From the sunshine of the halls of the Guggenheim Museum, to the pulsating street life of La Rambla and the Moorish arches of the Great Mosque of Cordoba, Spain exudes a vibrant energy and a charming blend of past and present.
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
The magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela has been a destination for pilgrims since the Middle Ages, as the culmination of their famous Camino de Santiago. One of the outstanding monuments of Early Romanesque architecture was created between 1060 and 1211. Despite the Baroque transformation of the façade in the 16th to 18th centuries, the interior has been preserved in the purest Early Romanesque style. You can appreciate the beauty of both periods as you approach one of the most impressive church façades in Spain from the west. Stepping inside, you will pass through the Portico la Gloria - this triple doorway is one of the largest and most magnificent examples of Romanesque sculpture in the world. At the center of the 13th-century high altar, made of jasper, alabaster and silver, is a wooden figure of the Apostle, richly decorated in precious metals and precious stones. There are narrow staircases on both sides so that pilgrims can kiss the Apostle's cloak as their main achievement highest point their pilgrimages. In the crypt under the altar there is a silver coffin with the remains of the Apostle. 
Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
You really have to see this building in person, because no photograph will ever convey that symphony of forms, so alive, as if they were about to take off. American architect Frank Gehry used limestone blocks and corrugated sheets of titanium to reverse the foundations of modern architecture. He managed to create a miracle, causing the so-called “Bilbao Effect” - the ability of a city to become famous thanks to a single world-class building. Thanks to Frank Gehry, the so-called “architourism” was born, an entire segment of the tourism industry based on monuments of modern architecture. The Guggenheim Museum features numerous exhibitions on contemporary art. This is one of those attractions in Spain that must be visited at all costs. 
Seville Cathedral and Fortress
The Seville Cathedral and the Fortress come together to become one of the most outstanding buildings World Heritage UNESCO in Spain. According to UNESCO, the Tower Minaret is a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. Seville Cathedral has a larger internal space than St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, and its 37-meter high main altar with many statues is completely covered in gold. The monumental tomb of Christopher Columbus is crowned with many incredible figures. The symbol of Seville began its life on the site of the city's destroyed Great Mosque. The fortress opposite was built by the Moors in 712 and was reconstructed after the Christian conquest by King Pedro in the 1300s. The rooms and halls of the fortress are breathtaking, and while walking in the gardens you will enjoy the scent of orange and lemon trees. To the east of the fortress is another attraction - the Jewish quarter of Seville with its whitewashed houses, iron balconies and flowery courtyards. 
Royal Palace in Madrid
Palacio Real (Royal Palace) in Madrid is official residence King of Spain, although it is used only for state ceremonies. The Royal Palace was built between 1738 and 1755. King Carlos III took up residence in the palace in 1764. Read more about it in the list of Madrid attractions.
Running with the Bulls
Pamplona is a city in Navarre famous for its amazing festival that takes place every year from July 6th to 14th. The festival includes not only public celebrations and fairs, but also a dangerous running with the bulls, for which numerous extreme sports enthusiasts from all over the world come here.
La Concha Beach
Sheltered from strong winds by steep cliffs and islands, La Concha in San Sebastian is one of the best urban beaches in Europe, let alone Spain. Here you can go surfing, walk along the promenade in search of good restaurants and enjoy beautiful view to the beach.
Aqueduct in Segovia
The Segovia Aqueduct is one of the best preserved monuments left by the Romans in Spain. Ancient aqueduct carries water at a distance of 16 km from the Segovia River. It was built from 24,000 massive granite blocks without the use of mortar. The probable date of construction is 50 AD. The aqueduct is one of the oldest attractions in Spain.
Cuenca
Situated between Madrid and Valencia, the city of Cuenca is a fine example of medieval construction on steep mountain slopes. Many houses are built right on the edge of the cliff, making Cuenca one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
Ibiza Island
Ibiza is one of Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Spain. The island is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe. IN summer time The island's population is doubling as tourists flock to Ibiza for its nightclubs, beach bars and restaurants. The island tops all lists of beach attractions in Spain.
Sagrada Familia and the work of Gaudi
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All countries, without exception, are proud of their achievements in the field of science and culture. The Spaniards do this skillfully and for show. Gaudi architecture, unsolved secrets flamenco rhythms, traditional bullfights, exotic islands And famous resorts- not far full list of what is offered to the enthusiastic tourist in this temperamental country. We will take you on a tour of the 15 best places in Spain.
Tourist map of Spain attractions
There are 17 regions in Spain, including the Canary and Balearic Islands. Outside the major Spanish cities there are many interesting places, telling about the versatility of nature and art in Spain. Visit each of these amazing places will make the trip rich and colorful.
Video: top 10 attractions in Spain
1. Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)
Sagrada Familia (Barcelona) - the temple is the most ambitious long-term construction project, which has been under construction for 132 years. Initially, construction (1882) was entrusted to the architect Francisco del Villar, who soon abandoned the project. In 1883, work was continued by Antonio Gaudi. The famous architect managed to complete only one tower of the unusual building. To date, only 8 towers out of a planned 18 have been erected. The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
Cape Marroqui is the southernmost point of the European continent. It is an artificial dam built in the 19th century. From here you can see the coast of Morocco with the naked eye.
Arena Las Ventas (Madrid) is a bullring built in the neo-Moorish style (neo-Mudéjar). Accommodates 23,798 spectators. Inside the complex you can visit the Bullfighting Museum.
Seville Cathedral- the largest Gothic temple in Europe, built in 1401-1519. It is a treasury of ancient relics and paintings by famous artists such as Goya, Velazquez, Murillo and others.
The magical fountains of Montjuic (Barcelona) are one of the most visited places in the capital of Catalonia. The unique show invites tourists to enjoy a magical combination of music, water and light.
Cibeles Fountain (Madrid) - a sculptural composition erected in 1782, represents the goddess Cybele seated on a chariot drawn by lions.
Mount Tibidabo is one of the most popular tourist places Barcelona and all of Spain. From here you have beautiful views of the capital of Catalonia. On the slopes of the mountain there is an amusement park of the same name with rides and an observation tower.
Montserrat Monastery is a Benedictine monastery, the religious center of Catalonia and a place of pilgrimage for Catholics from all over the world.
Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao) - the museum of modern art is a spectacular building made in the style of deconstructivism. Exhibitions of contemporary Spanish and foreign artists are held here.
Barcelona Zoo - The zoo's collection includes 400 plant species and 319 animal species.
The Prado Museum (Madrid) is one of the most famous and most visited museums visual arts. The museum houses works by Velazquez, Goya, Bosch, El Greco and other representatives of European painting.
Royal Palace (Madrid) - the residence of the kings of Spain, located on the banks of the river. Manzanares. The interior of the palace is famous for its frescoes by Caravaggio, Giordano, Velazquez, Goya, unique Flemish tapestries, etc.
Port Aventura is the most visited amusement park and the most big resort Spain. The park is divided into 6 thematic zones.
City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia) - is represented by a unique complex of examples of modern architecture. Surrounded by swimming pools and parks.
Dali Theater-Museum (Figueres, Catalonia) - a museum dedicated to the work of S. Dali. The interior decoration is represented by unique compositions of paintings, decorations, sculptures, etc.
From northern mountains to hot Seville and distant Canary Islands: what places are worth visiting to fully embrace the splendor of sunny Spain.
1. Pueblos Blancos, Andalusia
The snow-white villages that dot the hilly region of central Andalusia were not so long ago experiencing a period of decline: young people left these farming settlements en masse, heading for work in big cities. However, now the village residents have clearly decided to attract more tourists and began restoring buildings and pavements.
Narrow alleys winding between snow-white houses, ancient churches and areas covered with colorful flowers have regained their medieval charm. The most picturesque of the villages are Grazalema, Vejer de la Frontera and Arcos de la Frontera.
2. Alhambra, Granada
The Moorish fortress, covered in stunning carvings, is one of the most visited monuments in all of Spain. A complex of palaces, surrounded by manicured gardens, crowns the hilltop; The backdrop is the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Inside its walls, the fortress is no less impressive: here, among the peaceful courtyards, the Moorish lush decorative elements contrast interestingly with the laconic lines of the Baroque elements of later eras.
3. Masterpieces of Gaudi, Barcelona
The Catalan capital has no shortage of virtues: vibrant night life, long beaches and ample shopping opportunities make it one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations. However, its main pearls are, undoubtedly, the phantasmagoric buildings erected by the legendary Antoni Gaudi. The most visited of his creations (and, concurrently, the symbol of the city) is, of course, the still unfinished Sagrada Familia Cathedral with its carved turrets and fancy columns. Other masterpieces of the architect that are a must-see are the Casa Mila residential building, as well as the “gingerbread” houses of Park Güell.
4. Mountain beauty, Picos de Europa
Spanish landscapes are good everywhere, be it long sandy beaches or wide plains. But the country's most impressive natural views are concentrated in the mountains. natural park Picos de Europa. Rocky slopes, emerald green valleys and rushing rivers make this area of northern Spain ideal place for trekking, rafting and other outdoor activities.
5. Cathedral, Santiago de Compostela
Spain's numerous Gothic cathedrals are an important tribute to Catholic traditions. Perhaps the most impressive of them is the bulk of the Cathedral in the city of Santiago de Compostela. It is a huge building covered in baroque flourishes, statues and stalagmites. The cathedral is also the last point on the route of many thousands of pilgrims who annually pass along the famous pilgrimage road known as the Way of St. James.
6. Volcano Teide, Tenerife
It takes almost two hours to fly from Spain to the Canary Islands. The islands are located much closer to the African coast than to the European one, and their nature differs sharply from the landscapes presented in Spain. These lands of volcanic origin are covered with stepped slopes and black sands. In the center of Tenerife, the most popular of the islands, rises the mighty Teide volcano, crowned with a snow cap. Those who decide to conquer its slopes on foot will have a walk among absolutely “lunar” landscapes, and from the very top there are stunning views of the Canary Islands.
7. Beaches of Formentera, Balearic Islands
Almost 10 thousand kilometers coastline and the abundance of sunshine have long turned Spain into a beach mecca. The beaches here are very different: from strewn with sun loungers and colorful umbrellas to pristine desert sand strips. Perhaps the most pristine (and whitest!) beaches can be found on Fortmentera, one of the Balearic Islands. You can sail to Formentera from the mainland in just a couple of hours. The most picturesque of the island's beaches, Ses Illetes, is a curving strip of snow-white sand, on which the ultramarine waters of the Mediterranean gently lap.
8. City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia
Spain is famous for its outstanding ancient architecture, but its modern projects no less interesting. Located in Valencia architectural complex The City of Arts and Sciences, designed by the outstanding architect Santiago Calatrava, can be called the hallmark of modern Spanish architecture. Dazzling white buildings of bizarre shapes, the walls of which are curved at the most unimaginable angles, are impressive at any time of the day, but they are especially picturesque at night, when their outlines are emphasized by skillful lighting.
9. Plaza de España, Seville
The capital of Andalusia is filled with beautiful buildings and a stunning, authentic Spanish atmosphere. Plaza de España, designed by local architect Anibal Gonzalez in 1929, is a motley kaleidoscope of colorful turrets and colonnades, generously covered with curlicue patterns. In the center of the square there is a huge fountain and canals along which you can ride on rented catamarans. This place is so picturesque that it has appeared more than once in various films, the most famous of which is the second episode of “ Star Wars"("Attack of the Clones").
10. Old Town, Toledo
Ancient Toledo, located in the very heart of Spain, was the capital of the country until the 16th century. For many centuries, Jews, Christians and Muslims lived here side by side, for which Toledo received the nickname “ Cities of three cultures." Narrow cobbled streets, historical buildings, architectural monuments, majestic temples and cathedrals - this is a must-see for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the rich history of the country.
Of course, there are many other beautiful places in Spain. To describe them all, one article or even one website is not enough. And to visit them all, even one life may not be enough.
1. Montserrat Monastery
The monastery, located at an altitude of 725 meters above sea level, got its name from the mountainous area of Montserrat (“cut mountains”), 50 km northwest of Barcelona, where thousands of bizarrely shaped limestone rocks rise in a small space. The Benedictine monastery is a center of pilgrimage for Catholics. The monastery houses a statue of the Black Madonna. It is believed that the Black Madonna helps women find the happiness of motherhood; many women and young couples come to her. If you get to the temple very early, you should definitely listen to the boys’ choir studying at the music school at the monastery.
2. Mount Tibidabo
The name of the mountain is translated from Latin as “I give to you.” It is worth climbing Mount Tibidabo not only to see the stunning panoramic view throughout Barcelona, but also to visit the Temple of the Sacred Heart, as well as the ancient amusement park. Truly an amazing place in Spain. We have a separate post about Mount Tibidabo.
3. Temple of the Sagrada Familia (Sagrada Familia)
The Sagrada Familia is one of the main attractions of Spain. This amazing temple is located in the center of Barcelona and its construction has been going on for more than 100 years. It was built exclusively with private donations, which is why it became a kind of “long-term construction”. The external structure of the temple consists of 3 main facades - the facade of the Nativity of Christ, the facade of the Passion, the facade of Glory.
4. City of Ronda
The city of Ronda is one of the most exciting places in Spain. The city is built on high rocky plateaus (more than 780 meters above sea level), separated by the giant Tajo de Ronda gorge with chains of houses. The city was once a haven for smugglers and robbers, today it is one of the most important tourist centers and sights of Spain.
5. Salvador Dali Museum
The Salvador Dali Museum will surprise you and make you look at the world in a new way through the prism of surrealism. It would seem, what can you understand in his paintings and works? In fact, the art of Salvador Dali carries great meaning, irony, and unexpected twists. Experience it all for yourself when you visit the Salvador Dali Museum in Figueres.
6. Girona (old part of the city)
The old part of Girona deserves special attention and is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Spain. In order to get into historical part the city and get around it without losing sight of anything, you don’t even need a guidebook, the ancient narrow streets themselves will lead you to the ancient fortress wall, Jewish Quarter, Cathedral.
7. Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral (or Cathedral of Maria de la Sede) is the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe! This truly beautiful place in Spain is worth a look! The cathedral is incredibly large, so in order to see it from all sides, you will have to walk around the entire historical center of Seville, going around the cathedral in a circle.
8. Roman Bridge (Cordoba)
The Roman Bridge is also a favorite place in Spain for tourists, the 16-arch Roman (Old) Bridge, 250 meters long, over the Guadalquivir River, is located in historical center Cordoba is close to the city's main attractions - the Holy Field of Martyrs and the Cathedral.
9. Basilica Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Zaragoza)
The Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is one of the largest churches in Spain, one of the largest located in Zaragoza. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and named after her supposed appearance in this area around 40 AD. It is considered the first shrine in history dedicated to Mary. In the center of the basilica there is a column made of jasper, topped by a 15th-century statue depicting Mary holding the Child in her arms.
10. Park Guell in Barcelona
Perhaps one of the wonderful and vibrant creations of Antoni Gaudi, it is one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Spain. Park Güell was built in 1900-1914 in Barcelona. The park was originally conceived by Eusebi Güell as a green residential area; it was assumed that mansions would also be located on the territory of the beautiful green area. Guell commissioned Gaudi to design all the infrastructure and public spaces. But Güell’s idea was not destined to come true, since the park was located far from the center and did not become popular. As a result, Güell's heirs sold the hill to the city authorities, who opened the park to the public. The park is famous for its gingerbread houses, mosaic lizard, long winding bench (again in the shape of a lizard), the Hall of a Hundred Columns and many other wonderful wonders!
