Top Places to Visit in Spain in 2024

Coming second only to its northern neighbor as the most visited country in the world, Spain is packed with incredible places to visit and experiences to enjoy. Sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, World Heritage cities, incredible cuisine, and multi-faceted culture – the only downside is not knowing where to begin with your must-see list. This guide showcases eight favorite places to explore in sensational Spain in 2024.

1. Madrid

Best city for visiting world-class art museums

The Spanish capital is a lively city blessed with year-round clear blue skies draped over its vibrant barrios (neighborhoods), architectural landmarks, and famed art museums. There’s even an ancient Egyptian temple, the Templo de Debod, right in Madrid’s city center.

Art aficionados could spend days exploring Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art,” composed of three globally renowned museums: the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. These institutions house some of the world’s most valuable art collections, situated along Madrid’s Paseo del Prado, which has recently been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Planning tip: Madrid’s vibrant street culture is perfect for wine-soaked tapas crawls. Cava Baja in the historic La Latina neighborhood is lined with small bars and taverns, making it an ideal spot to join locals indulging in Iberian hams, charcuterie, and cheeses.

2. Barcelona

Best for modernist architecture

Straddling the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees mountains, the Catalonian capital is a visually stunning metropolis with avant-garde architecture, city beaches, and a Gothic Quarter that stretches back over 2000 years.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without spending time at the Sagrada Família, the masterpiece of the illustrious Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí. His impact on the city is pervasive, warranting exploration of his other architectural jewels, such as Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and Park Güell.

Another place where Gaudí has left his mark is at Plaça Reial, located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, adorned with decorative street lamps that were Gaudí’s first commissioned public work.

Planning tip: Visit Mercat de la Boqueria during lunchtime for a taste of local delicacies, as many humble eateries open up around this time.

3. San Sebastián

Best city for gourmet experiences

This alluring Basque coastal city is stunning and characterized by its belle époque architecture, white-sand beaches, and the blue waters of the Bay of Biscay. On a clear day, visitors can stroll along La Concha beach to embrace the locals’ sea-loving culture.

San Sebastián, known as Donostia in Basque, has evolved from a traditional whaling town into a world-renowned gastronomic capital with the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in Europe.

Planning tip: You don’t need a Michelin-star budget to enjoy San Sebastián’s food culture. Head to the Parte Vieja (Old Quarter) along 31 de Agosto Street for a selection of pintxos, small snacks that showcase the region’s culinary artistry.

4. Balearic Islands

Best for beaches and sapphire-colored waters

The Balearic Islands are recognized for their “Balearic blues”—distinct shades that define these Mediterranean waters. The four largest islands—Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera—offer numerous beaches and charming calas (coves) with white sand coastlines.

Ibiza is the most famous among these islands, not just for its clubbing culture but also for its sapphire-colored waters, historic fortified towns, and hidden inlets lined with delightful restaurants and cafes. You can explore the ruins of ancient Phoenician civilization at Sa Caleta and the Puig des Molins necropolis to learn about the island’s long history.

5. Seville

Best place for cultural sightseeing

The delights of Seville are in the details—this charming Andalusian capital boasts year-round sunny days, resplendent gardens, and intricately carved palaces, making it a favored filming location for major productions. Its allure lies in its unique mix of cultures—horse-drawn carriages, flamenco tablaos (stages) and colossal Gothic structures provide a mesmerizing backdrop.

Seville’s rich cultural tapestry reflects its long varied history, once a Moorish capital and the European gateway to the Americas after Columbus’ journey. The juxtaposition of cultures is palpable when visiting the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and just a few meters away, the Real Alcázar showcasing the impressive Mudéjar architecture.

Planning tip: Time your visit for one of the city’s great annual festivals to experience a lively celebration, such as Semana Santa or Feria de Abril.

6. Toledo

Best for layers of history

This 2000-year-old walled city is rich in history and was once the capital of various kingdoms. With significant Jewish, Christian, and Islamic influences, Toledo has earned the nickname “The City of Three Cultures.” Visitors can walk along its narrow cobblestone streets to see remnants of its unique cultural blend, like ancient Roman structures and stunning Moorish architecture.

Planning tip: Visit the Mirador del Valle for spectacular panoramic views and a picture-perfect photo of this historic city by the Tagus River.

7. Granada

Best city for Western Islamic architecture

Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Granada is home to the Alhambra, a palace complex showcasing the splendor of the Nasrid Dynasty. The Alhambra merges Moorish and Christian decorative elements, offering an enchanting experience with its intricate details and beautiful gardens.

Planning tip: Extend your visit at the Palacio de Generalife nearby, where the gardens offered respite to ancient sultans with their tranquil beauty.

8. Santiago de Compostela

Best city for spiritual tourism

Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. It is where pilgrims converge to pay their respects at the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela, the reputed burial place of St. James the Apostle.

Even those not on a pilgrimage can appreciate the mystical beauty of this city with its Celtic heritage. At the city’s heart lies the Plaza del Obradoiro, featuring the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, believed to be the oldest hotel in the world, originally a hostel for pilgrims.

Planning tip: Savor Santiago’s rich gastronomic tradition with its excellent seafood offerings at the Mercado de Abastos food market, a favorite among locals.