If there is a country in Europe that any traveler should visit at least once, that is Spain, a fascinating land filled with wonderful things to see and do. As one of the biggest countries on the continent, many assume they know everything about Spain if they visit Madrid or Barcelona, but the truth is the authentic and real Spain lies in its smaller towns, preserving the traditional culture and the unique laid-back style of life of the Spanish. The destination occupies most of the Iberia Peninsula in Western Europe, between France, Portugal, the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, also including several beautiful islands. The country has one of the most diverse landscapes, from the Pyrenees Mountains to the beaches of the south, mixing everything in between. Another great feature is the cultural diversity, with every region having its own traditions and beliefs.
Any visitor of Spain should definitely start with the two major cities, the capital of Madrid and the magical Barcelona. The royal city of Madrid is truly amazing, with a variety of interesting landmarks and attractions. The true charm of the city comes mainly from its wide boulevards and exquisite architecture, the parks and the museums. There are many things to see in Madrid, but the most important ones include the Royal Palace, El Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, Almudena Cathedral and many more museums and monuments. On the other hand, Barcelona is more extravagant and fascinating, with its holiday spirit, its nightlife and beaches. It also features its own set of great sights, the most interesting and popular being the Rambla Boulevard, Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Placa de Catalunya, the Montjuic Castle and Park, Maritime Museum, Picasso Museum and many more parks, museums, modernist monuments and so on.
But Spain is much more than that, with other beautiful cities and towns spread throughout its territory, with Valencia, Burgos, Bilbao, La Coruna, Valladolid and more. The more authentic charm of Spain comes from its small towns and villages that still preserve their regional character. From Galicia to Murcia and from Catalonia to Extremadura, these historical provinces have their own distinct and traditional features. Spain is also a great destination for an active holiday, with a great variety of hiking and cycling routes, adventure sports and beach destinations. Not even to mention the Balearic Islands, with incredible Majorca or crazy Ibiza. All these and much more like exquisite cuisine, vibrant nightlife and so on, make the real Spain that every traveler gets to love.
Best Accommodation in Spain
Relais & Chateaux Heritage Hotel 5*
Relais & Châteaux Heritage Hotel offers 5-star accommodation in Madrid, next to Paseo de la Castellana. It is located on a 20th century listed building beautifully decorated with a belle-époque design. The hotel features a modern décor, offering an urban and cosmopolitan spirit, merged with up-to-date technologies. All rooms come with a private bathroom with high-end toiletries, bathrobe and slippers.
Seventy Barcelona 4*
Seventy Barcelona has a shared lounge, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Barcelona. This 4-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. Guests can use the spa and wellness centre with an indoor pool, fitness centre, and sauna, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. At the hotel the rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower.
Grupotel Parc Natural & Spa 5*
Surrounded by the stunning S’Albufera Nature Reserve, Grupotel Parc Natural & Spa enjoys magnificent views over the Bay of Alcudia. This luxurious hotel features an outdoor pool and gardens. The elegant rooms at Parc Natural & Spa each include a balcony or terrace with views over the gardens, pool or sea. The hotel offers a spa and wellness area with facilities including a fitness centre, heated pool and Turkish bath.
Cover Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash
