Spain

Tourist Guide
Plaza de Espana which includes street scenes, night scenes and a sunset
Sample seafood in the quaint towns and cities of this diverse country where you can explore an eclectic terrain featuring mountains, desert regions and coastal wonderlands.

Spain is a cultural haven of southern Europe. This hot-blooded country is the home of bull-fighting and tapas as well as countless pristine beaches and modern and sophisticated cities. Learn about Spain’s rich history and get a sense of its traditions in sports, dancing and cuisine.

The city of Barcelona is in many ways a separate entity from the rest of Spain. Understand its distinct Catalan culture with a trip to the city center. Appreciate its spectacular Gothic architecture. Gaze up at the unfinished basilica of the Sagrada Familia and admire Antoni Gaudí’s almost cartoonish, melted design.

Cross the northern part of Spain to reach the Basque city of Bilbao, which is known for the fascinating avant-garde architecture of the Guggenheim Bilbao museum. Visit the capital city of Madrid for its many cultural highlights, such as the Prado Museum. This gallery is known for its collection of Francisco de Goya’s works.

At the southern end of the country is the coastline from Costa del Sol to Costa Blanca. Consider a trip to Vera Playa, which includes a nudist resort hotel. Try watersports at Tarifa near the Straits of Gibraltar. Enjoy hot summers and mild winters with trips to the beaches of Marbella and Malaga.

A little northeast of the resort towns is the city of Granada, which features the Moorish palace of the Alhambra and the serene gardens of the Generalife. Head west to the eclectic city of Seville, which has the Plaza de España at its center. Watch a flamenco performance in the Triana neighborhood, which is said to be the source of this expressive dance.

This large country is in southwestern Europe, with Northern Africa just across the sea from its southern coast. It shares land borders with Portugal, Andorra and France. Fly to one of Spain’s many international airports across the country and get around by rail or domestic flights. Spain has a hot and feisty culture, with lively resorts and a dramatic topography.

Popular cities in Spain

Madrid
Madrid
Known for Museums, Art and Theatres
The Spanish capital is not all hustle and bustle; nibble tapas in a cobbled square, visit ancient churches, or relax in one of Madrid’s spacious parks.

Reasons to visit

  • Plaza de Santa Ana
  • Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
  • Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
Barcelona
Barcelona
Known for Shopping, Cathedrals and Museums
Modernist art and Gothic architecture create a stunning backdrop in the Catalan capital, where sublime food and a sophisticated nightlife scene await.

Reasons to visit

  • Palau de la Música Catalana
  • Barcelona Cathedral
  • Sagrada Familia
Valencia
Valencia
Known for Historical, Shopping and Museums
Trip time! Discover the museums, art and beaches in romantic Valencia.

Reasons to visit

  • Valencia Cathedral
  • City of Arts and Sciences
  • Plaza de Toros de Valencia
Plaza de Espana which includes street scenes, night scenes and a sunset
Seville
Known for Cathedrals, Historical and Cafes
Romantic Seville is calling! Discover its monuments, cathedral, history and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Plaza de España
  • Alcázar
  • Giralda Tower
Granada
Granada
Known for Historical, Cathedrals and Castle
Trip time! Discover the cathedral, monuments and cafes in Granada.

Reasons to visit

  • Alhambra
  • Granada Cathedral
  • Generalife
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao which includes modern architecture and night scenes
Bilbao
Known for Museums, Bars and Walking
This former industrial city is now a major European arts center, home to cultural attractions including the famous Guggenheim Museum.

Reasons to visit

  • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
  • San Mames Stadium
  • Plaza Nueva

Popular places to visit

Spain