Spain is a culturally rich and beautiful country with amazing beaches and mouth-watering food – the perfect place for a friends’ trip. From sun-drenched islands to historic cities, this list offers something for every kind of travel squad
1. Barcelona: Vibrant Barcelona offers the best art, including Sagrada Familia, a wild night, and Gaudí’s masterpieces. Take a walk along Barceloneta by day; eat in the Gothic Quarter at night; and immerse yourself in this city’s zest. It is worth visiting the La Boqueria market, a colorful spectacle of fresh fruits and vegetables, gourmet food stores, and a variety of street food.
2. San Sebastián: Foodies, rejoice! San Sebastián is famous for pintxos, or miniature Basque tapas, which can be found alongside Michelin-starred restaurants and charming cafes. Visit the stunning La Concha Bay, a semi-circular beach ideally suited for any water sports activities. Take a leisurely paddle in the still waters or, for the thrill seekers, why not catch a few waves? For a more challenging hike with stunning views of the city and the coast, go to Monte Igueldo, which has several trails for hiking.
3. Madrid: The capital of Spain is an energetic city. Stroll among the masterpieces of the Prado Museum and discover famous painters such as Goya, Velázquez, Titian, and El Greco. Take a walk through the huge Retiro Park, which is in sharp contrast to the intensity of this Spanish city, and take a ride in a rented rowing boat on the park’s lake. Go on a bar-hopping spree in areas such as La Latina and munch on various Spanish delicacies, especially the tapas. You can’t afford to miss flamenco dancing that represents the Spanish spirit—the way they clap with their feet, wave hands, and sing.
4. Ibiza: When it comes to friends looking for a place with sun, sand, and non-stop fun, people talk about Ibiza. Visit secluded places such as Cala d’Hort, which can only be reached by boat or on foot, and enjoy the blue water and deserted beaches. Experience some of the most vibrant and popular nightclubs such as Ushuaïa Ibiza and Pacha, or enjoy a calm and quiet time at sunset beach bars. Bear in mind that there is more to do in Ibiza than partying – visit its historical sites such as Dalt Vila, a beautiful old town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site located on a hill, or explore cute hilltop towns in the interior of the island like Santa Gertrudis with its bohemian shops and village vibe.
5. Mallorca: Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic islands and can offer something for everyone. Explore the beautiful terrain of the Tramuntana mountains, which is added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites for wonderful views and beautiful villages. Enjoy beautiful and quiet beaches such as Cala Mesquida – a small bay with crystal clear water, or visit picturesque towns like Sóller with famous banana-shaped yellow trams and the beautiful central square. Try some of the local dishes such as ensaimada, which is a spiral pastry topped with icing sugar, and seafood specialties including red mullet and sea bass, among others.
6. Granada: Granada is brimming with history; a visit to the palace of Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. Visit the old Moorish Albaicin district with alleyways and houses painted in white. Try Arabic baths, which are remnants of the Islamic period in Granada. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural mix of the Renaissance Cathedral or groove to the beats of flamenco in the Sacromonte caves.
7. Seville: Located at the very center of Andalusia, Seville is a city that breathes flamenco. Visit a tablao, which is an authentic flamenco venue, and watch the complex footwork and passionate choreography of the performers. Take a tour of Seville Cathedral, the world’s third-largest church, as well as visit the picturesque district of Santa Cruz, with its flower-scented balconies and winding alleys. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife noted in the tapas districts of Seville, such as the Triana district, and take pictures of the Plaza de España, a distinguished tiled square with images portraying selected episodes in Spanish history.
8. Valencia: This lively city is perfect for exploring the rich history while enjoying today’s dynamics. Discover the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences: an aquarium, opera house, and science museum all designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Take a leisurely walk in the beautiful city green – Jardines del Turia, which features beautiful gardens, fountains, and Bioparc zoo. Savor a typical dish such as paella Valenciana – rice with chicken, seafood, and vegetables – and dance the night away at some of the best clubs in the city.
9. Bilbao: Bilbao is a city in northern Spain that is famous for its art and designs. Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a titanium-clad architectural wonder designed by Frank Gehry. Discover the Basque Culinary Center, which is a paradise for lovers of food and gourmet: master classes, restaurants, and even a food museum. Ride on the river that passes through the city and affords views of both Bilbao’s industrial heritage and its modern architecture. No trip would be complete without sampling pintxos, which are similar to Spanish tapas but with more of an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients.
10. Ronda: This vibrant city situated on a cliff, with a steep gulf below, is paradise for photographers. Visit the Puente Nuevo bridge, a fine example of 18th-century engineering, and walk through the historic Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, now functioning with occasional bullfighting events. Take a walk through the gorgeous gorge along the El Tajo gorge trail or go to sample the celebrated wines of Ronda at the country’s nearby wineries.
11. Formentera: Travel off the beaten path and find a piece of heaven in the Spanish island of Formentera. Sunbathe on the sandy shores fringed with clear waters, such as Cala Saona, which is a semi-circular bay with powdery sand. Join bicycle rentals and discover the quiet countryside of the island with its picturesque villages and houses painted in white. Savor seafood at restaurants with direct sea-view, and enjoy the laid-back attitude of the island, which is miles away from Ibiza’s party scene.
Are you ready to enchant yourself with Spain? From dazzling cities to tropical beaches, this colorful and lively nation is filled with exciting opportunities for an adventurous getaway with friends.