Spain is a very beautiful country in the world with marvelous cities that provide wonderful experiences to the travelers. As soon as you think of the most desirable cities to visit in Spain, you think of colorful streets, wonderful cuisine, old buildings and friendly people. There are special charms and attractions in every of the cities in Spain that make it worth visiting.
In the artistic bars of Barcelona up to the royal residences of Madrid, the finest cities to visit in Spain have something to offer to everyone. You can find your utopian place in the list of the best cities to visit in Spain, whether you are a history lover, an artist, a beach-lover, or a food lover. These cities are not only places of tourist attraction, but living museums where ancient history relates with modern life in the most exciting ways.
We shall discuss the most desired cities to explore in Spain in this guide, and make you know the beauty of each of them. You will also get to know the best activities to see, when to see it, and tips on how to maximize on your Spanish holiday. By planning your first trip or coming back to enjoy more, this list of the best cities to see in Spain will contribute to making memorable experiences.
How to Choose the Best Cities to Visit in Spain
- Consider Your Interests: Take into account what you love most to visit in order to choose the right Spanish city.
- Check the Weather: The weather varies in different cities and therefore plan depending on the season.
- Budget considerations: not all cities are the same and thus be careful about your pocket.
- Take into Account Travel Time: Examine the distance of time taken to get to each of the cities starting with your starting point.
- Blend Cities with Beach, Mountains and cities: Have cities, beach, mountains and other urban experiences.
Top 20 Best Cities to Visit in Spain
1. Barcelona
Best For: Couples & Art Lovers
One of the Best Cities to Visit in Spain is Barcelona, which is also among the most popular cities. This colorful city is situated on the Mediterranean coast and it is known due to amazing works of the architect Antoni Gaudi. The Sagrada Familia Basiica that is still being constructed since 1882 is a masterpiece of creativity and faith. Taking a stroll around Barcelona is like a walk along an outdoor museum as the mosaics are colorful, the buildings are unique, and the beaches are beautiful.
The city is a blend of the contemporary culture and historical greatness, thus suitable to all art lovers, food and beach lovers. Gothic Quarter transports you to the past with its small narrows in the realm of medieval streets, and the La Rambla is the one that will provide you with endless entertainment and shopping possibilities.
Popular Spots:
- Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
- Park Güell
- Casa Batlló
- Gothic Quarter
- La Rambla and Mercat de la Boqueria
Also Read: Best Cities to Visit in Scotland
2. Madrid
Best For: Culture Enthusiasts & Families
Madrid, the Spanish capital is indeed one of the most ideal cities to be visited by all lovers of art and culture. Some of the best art museums in the world are located in this royal city including the renowned Museo Nacional del Prado which is filled with works of masterpieces produced by the likes of Velasquez, Goya, El Greco among others. Royal palace of Madrid is an astonishing sight with 2000 richly decorated rooms, which reveal the splendour of the Spanish royalty.
Madrid is also characterized by beautiful parks such as Parque del Retiro whereby the locals and visitors can enjoy the serene lake. The city is 24/7, and there are full of vibrant tapas restaurants, flamenco performances, and hustling plazas. Madrid is an ideal place where it is possible to find Spanish passion, tradition and modern elegance.
Popular Spots:
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- Museo Nacional del Prado
- Parque del Retiro
- Plaza Mayor
- Puerta del Sol
3. Seville
Best For: Tradition Lovers & Solo Travelers
Seville is the core of conventional Spain and by all means, one of the best places to travel to Spain in order to enjoy pure Spanish culture. It is the cradle of flamenco dancing which can be heard everywhere in this Andalusian city. The Real Alcazar de Sevilla is a majestic medieval Islamic palace and gorgeous gardens with fountains and complicated tile-work that resembles a fairy tale. In the city Plaza de España is a masterpiece in its grand architecture with a romantic canal.
Beautiful orange trees, spectacular festivals and tasty tapas make Seville the city of wonder. These are the warm climate, cordial locals, and historical nature of Seville which makes it a memorable place to visit especially to anyone who wants to experience Spain like a textbook.
Popular Spots:
- Real Alcázar de Sevilla
- Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Plaza de España
- Barrio Santa Cruz
- Metropol Parasol
4. Granada
Best For: History Buffs & Architecture Fans
Granada is one of the Best Cities to Visit in Spain due to the great Alhambra palace. The second tourist attraction site in Europe is this palace-city because it is a magnificent fusion of Islamic, Christian, and contemporary architecture. Lying on the beautiful backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the city of Granada is a visual miracle and boasts an excellent history every corner.
The tiny lanes of Albaicin neighbourhood narrate about centuries ago with wiped-out buildings and secret gardens. It makes Granada unique since you can be able to ski in the mountains in the morning and have a warm weather in the city in the afternoon. It is also cheap and delicious since the city has a reputation of free tapas with drinks.
Popular Spots:
- The Alhambra
- Generalife Gardens
- Albaicín neighborhood
- Mirador de San Nicolás
- Granada Cathedral
5. Valencia
Best For: Science & Modern Architecture Lovers
Valencia is one of the most qualified cities to visit in Spain to people who prefer modern architecture and science. It is the birthplace of paella, the most well-known Rice dish of Spain and you can taste the true versions of it in restaurants all over the city. The complex of the future City of Arts and Sciences resembles an object of a science fiction film by its white curved structures and blue pools. Beaches are lovely in Valencia and they are in the city hence a visitor can easily access both cultural sightseeing and beach activities.
In March, the city also celebrates Las Fallas festival where enormous artistic sculptures are incinerated in enormous festivals. Valencia is the place with the ideology of the ideal combination of tradition and innovation, old and new.
Popular Spots:
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Oceanogràfic aquarium
- Valencia Cathedral
- Malvarrosa Beach
- Central Market
6. Bilbao
Best For: Art Lovers & Urban Explorers
The Guggenheim Museum has made Bilbao one of the most attractive tourism destinations in Spain. This building is made of titanium and resembles a huge ship, which contains spectacular modern art materials. Bilbao is a unique place with its own culture, language, and amazing, delicious food, unlike the rest of Spain. The city is located on a river with green mountains around, making beautiful scenes all over.
The Old Town of Bilbao, known as Casco Viejo, is full of pintxo bars, and you can sample tiny, artistic meals which are beautiful works of art in themselves. The city manages to blend the industrial heritage with modern architecture and design.
Popular Spots:
- Guggenheim Museum
- Casco Viejo (Old Town)
- Zubizuri Bridge
- Mount Artxanda
- Mercado de la Ribera
7. San Sebastian
Best For: Foodies & Beach Lovers
San Sebastian is, perhaps, one of the most recommended Best Cities to Visit in Spain among food lovers and those who love the beach. This is a beautiful seaside metropolis with the highest number of Michelin restaurants on a square meter in the world besides Kyoto, Japan. The La Concha Beach winds around the bay in a breathtaking way to form a perfect city beach.
The Old Part is renowned for its pintxo bars where people can sit down, eat, drink, and enjoy themselves. San Sebastian organizes film festivals and other cultural events around the world and gives elegance to the natural beauty itself. This city is very unique and unforgettable because of the combination of the great food, the gorgeous beaches, and the Basque culture.
Popular Spots:
- La Concha Beach
- Old Part (Parte Vieja)
- Mount Igueldo
- Aquarium
- Miramar Palace
8. Malaga
Best For: Sunshine Seekers & Couples
Malaga is also among the cities that one should visit in Spain to enjoy year-round sunshine and gorgeous beaches. This city is the birthplace of the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, and you will be able to visit his museum and his childhood home in this city of the Costa del Sol. The city is an ideal blend of beach leisure and cultural interests, with an outstanding Moorish castle looming above the harbor.
Malaga’s old town is characterized by narrow streets, churches, and plazas where you can taste fresh seafood and the sweet wine of Malaga. The city is a good location to use as a starting point to visit white villages around the city and the beautiful Caminito del Rey walkway. Malaga has more than 300 sunshine days annually and this will assure you of having good weather during your vacation.
Popular Spots:
- Picasso Museum
- Alcazaba fortress
- Gibralfaro Castle
- Malagueta Beach
- Cathedral of Malaga
9. Cordoba
Best For: Heritage Lovers & History Buffs
Cordoba is among the most historic cities in Spain that can be visited to seek insight into the multicultural history of this country. The Mezquita-Cathedral is an unbelievable construction which began as a mosque and turned into a cathedral, and hundreds of red and white striped arches make a wondrous forest of columns. The Jewish quarter is also very small, with flower-filled streets that will take you back in time with beautiful patios, which were adorned with colorful tiles and plants.
Cordoba is the most significant city that ever existed in Europe in the Islamic period and this rich history can be traced everywhere. The city also has its Patio Festival held in May where people open their own backyards and allow others to see them. Cordoba is still adorable and is not excessively congested, regardless of its historical value.
Popular Spots:
- Mezquita-Cathedral
- Jewish Quarter
- Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
- Roman Bridge
- Medina Azahara palace ruins
10. Toledo
Best For: Medieval Enthusiasts & Couples
Toledo is among the Best Cities to visit in Spain, which contains a medieval spirit and a multi-religious background. This old city is located on a hill, and it is surrounded by the Tagus River, making it a dramatic skyline of churches, synagogues, and mosques. Toledo is referred to as 201C;City of Three Cultures201D; since for centuries the Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived in absolute peace in this place.
The old town as a whole is a UNESCO World Heritage, and its cobblestone streets are winding and have hardly changed over the past five hundred years. Toledo boasts of ancient sword-making and exquisite damascene metal work inlaid with gold. Toledo is a great day trip or an overnight destination, being only 30 minutes distant by train to Madrid.
Popular Spots:
- Toledo Cathedral
- Alcázar of Toledo
- Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes
- Santa María la Blanca Synagogue
- El Greco Museum
11. Salamanca
Best For: Students & Cultural Travelers
Salamanca is a city that one must not miss visiting in Spain due to its beautiful golden building architecture and youthful vibrancy. This city is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, which was founded in 1218 and has been a learning center for over 800 years. The Plaza Mayor is regarded as the most beautiful in the whole of Spain, with gorgeous symmetry and golden stone that shines at sunset.
Salamanca’s Old and New Cathedrals are located next to each other, and they demonstrate various architectural designs of different centuries. The city is packed with students, making it a very active place with cheap restaurants and a busy nightlife. It is very magical and romantic to walk in Salamanca at night when the buildings are lit.
Popular Spots:
- Plaza Mayor
- University of Salamanca
- Old and New Cathedrals
- Casa de las Conchas
- Roman Bridge
12. Segovia
Best For: History Lovers & Families
Segovia is a city worth visiting in Spain due to its wonderful Roman constructions and castles of fairy tales. Still in the city centre, the Roman Aqueduct, constructed nearly 2,000 years ago, and using no cement, is still in perfect condition, demonstrating the unbelievable mastery of the ancient constructors. The Alcazar castle resembles the influence of Disney’s Cinderella Castle, as it is located on a rocky cliff with a breathtaking view of the castle.
Cochinillo (roast suckling pig) is another famous dish in Segovia, and restaurants have been refining this dish over the generations. The old town is old-fashioned and serene with stone structures and silent plazas. Segovia is a good and convenient day trip, being near Madrid.
Popular Spots:
- Roman Aqueduct
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Segovia Cathedral
- Plaza Mayor
- Jewish Quarter
13. Santiago de Compostela
Best For: Pilgrims & Spiritual Travelers
One of the most recommended cities to visit in Spain, in terms of spiritual world and historical value, is Santiago de Compostela. The city of Galicia is the last spot in the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage path that is covered by thousands annually. The Cathedral of Santiago is significant in terms of religion since it is believed to be the burial place of Saint James the Apostle.
A timeless medieval atmosphere is achieved by granite buildings, covered arcaded aisles, and atmospheric squares, which give the old town a UNESCO World Heritage image. Santiago also boasts of a rainy, green climate, which is unusual in most parts of Spain hence making it look mystical. When pilgrims come to the city, it celebrates, and you can get the feeling of the victoriousness and the community.
Popular Spots:
- Cathedral of Santiago
- Plaza del Obradoiro
- Old Town streets
- Monastery of San Martiño Pinario
- Alameda Park
14. Ronda
Best For: Couples & Nature Lovers
Ronda is among the most attractive places to see in Spain, with striking views and landscapes. This is a white village, which is perched on a deep ravine, making some of the most spectacular views in the nation. The Puente Nuevo bridge crosses the 120-meter-deep canyon, uniting the old and the new sections of the town in a magnificent architectural work of art.
One of the birthplaces of modern bullfighting is Ronda, and you can see one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. The town is a romantic setting and a dramatic location that has inspired such renowned writers as Ernest Hemingway. The small town of Ronda is a great place to have fine restaurants, wine cellars, and hikes through the amazing mountain scenery.
Popular Spots:
- Puente Nuevo bridge
- El Tajo gorge viewpoints
- Plaza de Toros bullring
- Arab Baths
- Mondragón Palace
15. Palma de Mallorca
Best For: Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
Palma de Mallorca is considered to be among the Best Cities to visit in Spain in order to mix both Mediterranean beaches and the culture of a historic city. The beautiful historic centre of this Balearic Island capital is crowned by the impressive La Seu Cathedral, which has sea views. The ancient town is crowded with small streets, shops with designers, galleries, and stylish restaurants with fresh seafood.
Palma harbor is the best place to walk in the evening, and the sky is full of luxury yachts and spectacular sunsets. The city can be attributed with vibrant nightlife and a tranquil beach lifestyle, hence it can accommodate various kinds of tourists. Beyond the city, there are beautiful coves, mountains, and villages to explore on the island.
Popular Spots:
- La Seu Cathedral
- Bellver Castle
- Old Town
- Palma Aquarium
- Playa de Palma beach
16. Zaragoza
Best For: History Buffs & Offbeat Travelers
Zaragoza is a great place to explore in Spain with a traveller wishing to have an original experience without tourists. This historical city is situated between Barcelona and Madrid and is usually ignored but boasts of unbelievable monuments and history. The Basilica del Pilar and the colored domes are well located along the river Ebro, creating postcard images.
The Roman ruins, Moorish palaces, and magnificent churches are all preserved at Zaragoza, with its stratified history. The atmosphere of the city is easy-going and allows one to enjoy traditional tapas in local bars and experience the daily life in Spain. Being the fifth-largest city in Spain, Zaragoza offers the comfort of a big city without the huge masses of people.
Popular Spots:
- Basilica del Pilar
- Aljafería Palace
- La Seo Cathedral
- Stone Bridge
- Plaza del Pilar
17. Cadiz
Best For: Coastal Lovers & Festival Seekers
Cadiz is also one of the finest cities to visit in Spain, where one can find the real Andalusian atmosphere of the coast. Cadiz is said to be the oldest inhabited city in Western Europe, dating back 3,000 years when the Phoenicians settled there. The old town is located on a peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, which gives a unique sense of isolation of an island with sea turns and magnificent light.
Cadiz has one of the most well-known carnivals in Spain 2019 which is characterized by colorful costumes, music, and celebrations. The city also boasts of beautiful beaches that are immediately adjacent to the historic centre, and as such, it is very easy to sightsee and go swimming at the same time. The people of the town are particularly pleasant and funny.
Popular Spots:
- Cadiz Cathedral
- Torre Tavira viewpoint
- La Caleta Beach
- Central Market
- Barrio del Pópulo
18. Alicante
Best For: Beach Lovers & Budget Travelers
Alicante has been ranked among the most affordable beach getaways in Spain where the weather is excellent. Costa Blanca city boasts of lovely sandy beaches, a palm-lined prominence and an old castle that faces the Mediterranean Sea. The Explanada de Espana is a beautiful walk with marble mosaic tiles best in taking night walks.
Alicante is also a good destination because of cheap prices of hotels and affordable yet delicious food. The ancient town is painted, has boisterous bars and the magnificent castle of Santa Barbara on top of Mount Benacantil. The city is well networked with an advanced airport hence easy accessibility in most cities within Europe.
Popular Spots:
- Santa Bárbara Castle
- Explanada de España
- Postiguet Beach
- Barrio Santa Cruz
- Central Market
19. Pamplona
Best For: Festival Enthusiasts & Adventure Seekers
Pamplonia is another of the Best Cities to visit in Spain in order to experience the world-famous San Fermin festival and running of the bulls in July. Other than the festival, this city of Navarre is endowed with a gorgeous historic center whereby the old town is surrounded by medieval walls that are well maintained. Pamplona is located along the grid of the pilgrimage of Santiago, which is visited by walkers all year round.
The city boasts of beautiful parks, tasty pintxo bars, and a very cool ambience unlike the mayhem at the festivals. The Cathedral of Santa Maria is a great Gothic structure featuring beautiful cloisters. Pamplona is a place full of Basque culture and local cuisine of northern Spanish.
Popular Spots:
- Plaza del Castillo
- Cathedral of Santa María
- City walls
- Taconera Gardens
- Citadel Park
20. Girona
Best For: Couples & Medieval History Lovers
Girona is a city worth visiting in Spain, which offers the best evidence of medieval architecture and a beautiful sight of rivers. The city of Catalonia boasts of one of the most preserved Jewish quarters in Europe with small stone paved streets that make one feel like they are back in time. The houses painted in different colors along the river Onyar make one of the most photographed pictures of Spain and most especially in the sunset.
Girona is a popular filming location of game of thrones and fans are allowed to walk the streets where their favorite characters walked. The city boasts of great dining places, some of them Michelin-starred, meaning they enjoy culinary perfection. Girona is well-placed in exploring Catalonia, being close to Barcelona and the Costa Brava.
Popular Spots:
- Cathedral of Girona
- Jewish Quarter
- Onyar River houses
- Arab Baths
- City walls walk
Travel Tips for Visiting Spanish Cities
- Pre-Purchase Tickets: Due to the high number of visitors, popular attractions book fast, particularly during the summer seasons.
- Basic Spanish Phrases: Locals like it when newcomers make attempts to speak their language.
- Spanish Meal Times: The lunch time is usually 2-4pm and dinner begins at about 9pm or even later.
- Take Local Transport: The transport networks of the cities in Spain are very good in terms of metro, buses and trains.
- Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes: Cobblestone Old town streets are usually in need of good shoes.
Conclusion – The Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Spain
The number of cities that Spain has is unbelievable and they have their personal personalities and are charismatic. The most attractive places of interest to see in Spain involve the globally popular places such as Barcelona and Madrid, and the lesser places such as Girona and Ronda. No matter what you like, beaches, mountains, museums or historical sites, the best cities to visit in Spain have something unique just waiting in the form of you.
The cities that should be included in the list of the best ones to see in Spain are located not in one place but in various regions and provide different experiences. The Southerns such as Seville and Granada are the Moorish cities, and the North has such cities as San Sebastian and Bilbao with Basque culture and cuisine. Beach relaxation is offered by coastal cities and historic treasures are offered by the inland cities.
The reason why the best cities to visit in Spain are beautiful is that you can combine multiple cities within one trip with ease by using the excellent train network. Begin in Barcelona and travel to Madrid, Seville and find smaller gems in between. Every city will impress you with its hospitality, tasty food and memorable views. Spain is home to the best cities to visit and it is open arms waiting to receive you!
FAQs
Which is the most appropriate time to visit Spanish cities?
The most favorable season to spend in the best cities to visit in Spain is spring (April-June) or fall (September-October), when the air is pleasant and the number of people is few. Summer is also hot, particularly in cities in the south whereas the winter season is mild and certain attractions can be closed earlier.
What is the number of days I would like to spend in the Spanish cities?
In case of a major city that is among the best cities to visit in Spain such as Barcelona or Madrid, one will need at least 3-4 days to be able to explore major attractions. It is possible to visit smaller cities such as Toledo or Ronda in 1-2 days. In order to have a complete trip to Spain and be able to visit several cities, two weeks are the best.
Can you move easily in cities of Spain?
Yes, transport in between the best cities to visit in Spain is very convenient. There are high-speed trains (AVE and Renfe) linking big cities in a fast and comfortable manner. In the short-haul, buses are cheap and domestic flights can be used in the long-haul. The transport system is up-to-date and sound.
What is the most suitable city in Spain to visit first?
Barcelo is usually suggested as the best of the best cities to see in Spain as a first-time visitor as it is a combination of beaches, architecture, culture, and nightlife. Madrid is also perfect when it comes to first visits as it has world-class museums and is at the center of it all. Both cities are well transported and have numerous tourist infrastructure.