Top 10 Things to Do in Spain
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
Spain is a beautiful country with a rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food and stunning landscapes. Having lived in Spain for a few years, I have had the opportunity to explore the country and experience some of the best things it has to offer. In this article, I will share with you the top 10 things to do in Spain, based on my personal experiences and research.
Top Statistics and Facts
- Spain is the second most visited country in the world, with over 83 million tourists in 2019.
- The country has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the second-highest number in the world.
- Spain is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, with over 5,000 miles of coastline.
- The country is famous for its food, including paella, tortilla española, and churros with chocolate.
Top 10 Things to Do in Spain
Visit Barcelona
Barcelona is a beautiful city on the Mediterranean coast, known for its art, architecture, and culture. Some of the top things to do in Barcelona include visiting the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter. I highly recommend taking a stroll down La Rambla, a famous street filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants.
Explore Madrid
Madrid is the capital of Spain and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. Some of the top things to do in Madrid include visiting the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Retiro Park. I also recommend trying some traditional Spanish food at the Mercado de San Miguel, a food market in the heart of the city.
Visit the Alhambra
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex located in Granada, in the south of Spain. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. I visited the Alhambra a few years ago and was blown away by the intricate details and beautiful gardens.
Experience the Flamenco
Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that originated in the Andalusia region. It is a passionate and intense dance that is accompanied by guitar music and singing. I had the opportunity to see a flamenco show in Seville and was amazed by the skill and passion of the dancers.
Relax on the Beaches
Spain has some of the best beaches in Europe, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Some of my favorite beaches include Playa de la Concha in San Sebastian, Playa de Muro in Mallorca, and Playa de Bolonia in Cadiz. Don’t forget to try the fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants!
Visit the Basque Country
The Basque Country is an autonomous region located in the north of Spain, known for its unique culture and cuisine. Some of the top things to do in the Basque Country include visiting the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, trying the pintxos (tapas) in San Sebastian, and hiking in the Pyrenees Mountains.
Take a Wine Tour
Spain is famous for its wine, with some of the best wine regions located in the north of the country. Some of the top wine regions to visit include Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat. I took a wine tour in Rioja a few years ago and learned a lot about the wine-making process.
Visit the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a group of volcanic islands located off the coast of Africa, known for their warm weather and beautiful beaches. Some of the top things to do in the Canary Islands include hiking in Teide National Park, visiting the beaches in Fuerteventura, and exploring the historic town of La Laguna.
Explore Seville
Seville is a historic city located in the south of Spain, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Some of the top things to do in Seville include visiting the Alcazar Palace, the Cathedral, and the Plaza de España. I also recommend trying the local specialty, churros with chocolate, at one of the many cafes in the city.
Visit the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is a beautiful coastline located in the northeast of Spain, known for its picturesque villages and crystal-clear waters. Some of the top things to do in the Costa Brava include visiting the medieval town of Tossa de Mar, hiking in the Cap de Creus Natural Park, and relaxing on the beaches of Calella de Palafrugell.
Expert Quotes
Spain has something for everyone, from the bustling cities of Barcelona and Madrid to the tranquil beaches of the Canary Islands. The country’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Spain?
A: The best time of year to visit Spain depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and hottest, with lots of tourists and high temperatures. The spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are milder and less crowded, with pleasant temperatures and colorful landscapes.
Q: What is the currency used in Spain?
A: The currency used in Spain is the Euro. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you for small purchases and tips.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Spain?
A: Spain is generally a safe country to travel to, with low crime rates and a well-developed infrastructure. However, like any other country, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.