If you're wondering, "What are the best places to travel in Spain?” it is a fantastic question. It is a time for your best Spanish vacation. Filled with sunny plazas, late-night tapas runs, jaw-dropping architecture, and tiny coastal towns. Spain is a holiday destination where time politely slows down.

To help you out, I will walk you through the top 10 places to visit in Spain (and include a short "if you only have five cities" list), share what vibes to expect, and provide clear, bite-sized ideas for things to do and see in each place. Read on if you want real travel inspo for the best Spanish holiday destinations (whether you are hunting for beaches, history, or food).

Note: The prices mentioned in this article are averages from past travellers and should be taken as approximate. Actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, pace, group size, and length of stay. Families and groups often spend less per person and opt for longer trips.

Madrid — Top tourist sites in Madrid, Spain

Madrid is the capital city of Spain. Additionally, it is also one of the best places to travel in Spain. It is especially great if you want a mix of art, food, and culture. The city often tops lists of the top 10 places to visit in Spain.

It is where modern energy collides with centuries of tradition. There are wide boulevards, royal palaces, and iconic museums. They all sit side by side with tapas bars, buzzing plazas, and local markets. For many, it is one of the best Spanish holiday destinations because you get so much variety in one city.

What makes Madrid so memorable is how it balances grandeur with local charm. The top tourist sites in Madrid, Spain, like the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and Prado Museum, are world-famous. You will fall in love with these just like wandering La Latina's narrow streets or people-watching in Malasaña.

Retiro Park is the city's green heart, perfect for a relaxed stroll or boat ride. The Gran Vía dazzles with shops, theatres, and nightlife. And if you're looking for easy day trips, places like Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila show you why Madrid is not just a city but a perfect base for exploring some of the most popular destinations in Spain.

It's one of the best cities in Spain to travel to if you want a little bit of everything in one place.

Things to do & see in Madrid

• Prado Museum
• Reina Sofía Museum
• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
• Retiro Park & Crystal Palace
• Royal Palace of Madrid
• Almudena Cathedral
• El Rastro Market
• Gran Vía
• La Latina
• Day trip to Toledo.

Madrid Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $190 (€162)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $69 (€59)
  • Transportation: $22 (€18)
  • Hotels: $182 (€155)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,655 (€2,268).

Barcelona — Top tourist attractions in Barcelona, Spain

If Madrid is Spain's heart, then Barcelona is its artistic soul. It is a city that feels alive in every corner. It is no surprise that Barcelona is one of the best places to travel in Spain. It often ranks high among the top 10 places to visit in Spain.

The mix here is irresistible. It has the bold Gaudí architecture, golden Mediterranean beaches, a buzzing Gothic Quarter, and food markets that feel like a sensory playground.

For many travellers, it's one of the best Spanish holiday destinations because you can switch between city exploration and lazy beach afternoons without ever leaving town.

The top tourist attractions in Barcelona, Spain, are the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. They are instantly recognisable. The city rewards wandering just as much as sightseeing. Food lovers can't miss La Boqueria Market, where every stall tempts with colour and flavour. And when the sun sets, the nightlife picks up with live music, cocktails, and beach parties that stretch into dawn. Barcelona stands out as one of the best cities in Spain to visit, making it an easy choice among the top 10 places to see in Spain for first-time travellers.

Things to do & see in Barcelona

• Sagrada Família
• Park Güell
• Casa Batlló
• La Pedrera (Casa Milà)
• Gothic Quarter
• La Rambla
• La Boqueria Market
• Barceloneta Beach
• Montjuïc Hill
• Camp Nou Stadium.

Barcelona Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $217 (€185)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $68 (€58)
  • Transportation: $22 (€19)
  • Hotels: $230 (€196)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $3,032 (€2,590)

Seville — One of the most popular destinations in Spain

Seville is pure Andalusian charm. This city is known for its flamenco shows. They have Moorish palaces and plazas shaded by orange trees. Seville is often ranked among the top 10 places to visit in Spain.

It feels like stepping into a storybook where history and passion meet. There is intricate tilework in the Real Alcázar. There are soaring spires of the Cathedral and the Giralda tower. The city is a visual feast. There are also the tapas hopping through the Barrio Santa Cruz. It is easy to see why Seville is considered one of the best Spanish holiday destinations.

But Seville is about rhythm, atmosphere, and a slower pace that pulls you in. You can be walking along the Guadalquivir River at sunset or wandering through the whitewashed lanes of Santa Cruz. All of it feels magical.

The city is a mix of Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. It tells centuries of stories, while the evenings come alive with flamenco performances in small tablaos that echo with soul-stirring music. Many travellers call Seville one of the best vacation destinations in Spain because it delivers that picture-perfect blend of culture, food, and atmosphere in a walkable, welcoming package.

Things to do & see in Seville

• Real Alcázar of Seville
• Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower
• Plaza de España
• Maria Luisa Park
• Barrio Santa Cruz
• Flamenco show in Triana
• Guadalquivir River walk.

Seville Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $177 (€151)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $75 (€64)
  • Transportation: $21 (€18)
  • Hotels: $135 (€115)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,475 (€2,114)

Granada —  One of the best places in Spain to travel

Granada is a city that feels like it was lifted straight from a storybook. The city’s crown jewel is the Alhambra. It is a sprawling Moorish palace and fortress complex. It embodies centuries of history, artistry, and sheer architectural brilliance.

Visiting the Alhambra is like stepping into a fairytale. It has intricate arches, serene courtyards, and lush gardens.

Granada is also a city where the past and present coexist effortlessly. You find winding streets of the Albaicín, whitewashed houses, and hidden viewpoints, all offering stunning vistas of the Alhambra against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

No wonder it’s considered one of the best vacation destinations in Spain.

It is a city that rewards exploration. You can stroll through the narrow cobbled streets. You can sip on coffee in a sun-drenched plaza, or wander the Sacromonte neighbourhood where flamenco echoes from cave homes. The free tapas culture here is legendary; order a drink, and your plate will magically appear with a small, delicious tapa.

Many travellers also consider Granada one of the top 5 places to go in Spain because of its unique blend of history, food, and stunning scenery.

Things to do & see in Granada

• Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
• Albaicín neighborhood
• Mirador de San Nicolás
• Granada Cathedral
• Royal Chapel of Granada
• Sacromonte caves & flamenco shows
• Local tapas bars.

Granada Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $176 (€150)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $74 (€64)
  • Transportation: $25 (€22)
  • Hotels: $137 (€117)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,458 (€2,100)

Valencia — The best vacation destinations in Spain

Valencia is often called one of the best places to travel in Spain. It is the birthplace of paella. It is a place that combines a rich culinary tradition with stunning modern architecture. It also has long stretches of sandy beaches.

From the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to the old-world charm of the historic centre, Valencia gives visitors the best of both worlds. It has wide streets, open plazas, and a relaxed pace. This makes it an excellent choice for families, solo travellers, or couples seeking a lively yet manageable city.

It is also frequently listed among the best Spanish holiday destinations for those who want sun, culture, and fantastic food in a single trip.

The city has beaches like Malvarrosa and Patacona. They are great for lounging, swimming, or trying water sports. Additionally, there are the Turia Gardens. It is a massive park built in a former riverbed. It offers miles of paths for walking, cycling, or picnicking.

The Central Market is a must-visit for tasting local delights, from fresh seafood to sweet horchata. Valencia also has many festivals, like Las Fallas in March. They show the city's vibrant spirit and make it one of the most popular destinations in Spain for culture lovers.

Things to do & see in Valencia

• City of Arts and Sciences
• Oceanogràfic Aquarium
• Turia Gardens
• Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete
• Mercado Central
• La Lonja de la Seda
• Malvarrosa Beach
• Patacona Beach.

Valencia Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $179 (€153)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $82 (€70)
  • Transportation: $21 (€18)
  • Hotels: $135 (€115)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,508 (€2,142)

Bilbao — Guggenheim wonders & one of the best cities in Spain to travel to

Bilbao is a city that has reinvented itself. It has earned its spot as one of the best places to travel in Spain. It was once an industrial town. Now Bilbao has become a cultural powerhouse. It is famous for the Guggenheim Museum and its innovative architecture.

Apart from modern art, the city is steeped in Basque culture. It has traditions, cuisine, and festivals that make it one of the most popular destinations in Spain.

Bilbao offers a unique mix of contemporary flair and historic charm. What makes Bilbao particularly appealing is how it combines the old with the new. The Casco Viejo (Old Town) is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets. On the other hand, the modern waterfront glimmers with the futuristic curves of the Guggenheim and nearby bridges.

Food lovers consider Bilbao a paradise. Some pintxos bars serve culinary delights in tiny and colourful bites that are both affordable and delicious. You can have day trips from the city. They will take you to the rugged Basque coastline or charming nearby villages.

Things to do & see in Bilbao

• Guggenheim Museum
• Casco Viejo (Old Town)
• La Ribera Market
• La Salve Bridge
• Plaza Nueva
• Zubizuri Bridge
• Basque Coast day trips
• Pintxos crawl.

Bilbao Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $199 (€170)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $91 (€77)
  • Transportation: $30 (€26)
  • Hotels: $170 (€145)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,786 (€2,380)

San Sebastián (Donostia) — beaches, pintxos & one of the top 5 places to go in Spain

San Sebastián, or Donostia as locals call it, is a culinary paradise. It is one of the best holiday destinations in Spain. It is part of the top 10 places to visit in Spain. This is a Basque coastal city. It is famous for its crescent-shaped La Concha Beach, Michelin-starred restaurants, and charming Old Town.

Foodies and beach lovers alike find it irresistible. Pintxos bars line the streets. They offer tiny bites packed with flavour. It is a simple way to taste the region's incredible culinary heritage.

You can also add the breathtaking seaside views and a lively cultural scene. It is no wonder San Sebastián is one of the most popular destinations in Spain.

You can spend the morning hiking up Monte Urgull for panoramic views. In the afternoon, you could be lounging on La Concha Beach, and in the evening, you can be sampling pintxos or enjoying one of the city's renowned Michelin-starred menus.

Many travellers compare its charm to some of the best travel destinations in Latin America for food and scenic beauty, but with a distinctly European flair.

Things to do & see in San Sebastián

• La Concha Beach
• Parte Vieja (Old Town)
• Monte Urgull
• Pintxos crawl
• Aquarium
• Miramar Palace
• Ondarreta Beach
• Michelin-starred restaurants.

San Sebastián Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $132 (€113)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $64 (€55)
  • Transportation: $15 (€13)
  • Hotels: $95 (€81)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $1,852 (€1,582)

Córdoba — Mezquita wonders & one of the best vacation destinations in Spain

Córdoba is a city that radiates history. It is one of the best historic places to visit in Spain. It is also a highlight for those exploring Andalusia. It is most famous for the Mezquita. It is a stunning mosque-cathedral. It showcases the city’s rich Islamic and Christian heritage.

Córdoba is also celebrated as one of the best Spanish holiday destinations for travellers who love winding streets, historic architecture, and charming plazas. The city has a unique combination of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences.

Córdoba is especially memorable because of the contrast between grand monuments and cosy neighbourhoods. The Judería (Jewish Quarter) is a labyrinth of narrow streets. It has whitewashed houses and flower-filled patios. The city also boasts vibrant local markets and lively tapas bars where you can taste Andalusian specialities.

Things to do & see in Córdoba

• Mezquita-Cathedral of Córdoba
• Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs
• Judería (Jewish Quarter)
• Calleja de las Flores
• Roman Bridge
• Plaza de las Tendillas
• Local tapas bars
• Córdoba Patios.

Córdoba Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $177 (€151)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $68 (€58)
  • Transportation: $33 (€28)
  • Hotels: $158 (€135)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,475 (€2,114).

Toledo — A medieval charm & one of the top 5 places to go in Spain

Toledo feels like stepping into history. It is a must-see on any itinerary of the top 10 tourist attractions to see in Spain. It is perched on a hill above the Tagus River. Toledo’s medieval streets, ancient walls, and striking cathedrals make it one of the best Spanish holiday destinations for travellers who love history, architecture, and culture.

It is often included among the best cities in Spain to visit. It is packed with many landmarks. Toledo gives visitors a sense of stepping back in time while remaining effortlessly walkable.

Toledo has an unforgettable layered history. There are Jewish, Muslim, and Christian influences that coexist throughout the city. The Toledo Cathedral, with its soaring Gothic architecture, and the Alcázar, towering over the skyline, are just the beginning.

Art lovers will appreciate works by El Greco scattered across churches and museums. The city's craft shops, specialising in damascene metalwork and swords, offer unique souvenirs that reflect Toledo's storied past.

Things to do & see in Toledo

• Toledo Cathedral
• Alcázar of Toledo
• El Greco Museum
• Jewish Quarter
• Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes
• Roman Bridge
• Calle Comercio & local shops
• Panoramic views from city walls.

Toledo Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $178 (€152)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $79 (€68)
  • Transportation: $23 (€20)
  • Hotels: $154 (€131)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,491 (€2,128).

Málaga — With sun, culture & one of the most popular destinations in Spain

Málaga is a sun-soaked gem on the Costa del Sol. It is a popular tourist city in Spain. This is a hot favourite among both city explorers and beach lovers. It has a bustling port and sunny beaches. Málaga is also one of the best holiday destinations in Spain for travellers seeking both leisure and history. It has its museums, fortresses, and markets. They can be easily explored in a few days, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the Mediterranean coast.

The Alcazaba fortress and Gibralfaro Castle offer breathtaking views over the city and sea. The Picasso Museum celebrates the city's most famous son. You can stroll through the historic centre, and you will find lively plazas, local tapas bars, and markets brimming with fresh produce and seafood.

The city's proximity to other Costa del Sol towns makes it an ideal base for exploring charming villages like Ronda or Nerja. Many travellers consider Málaga one of the best places in Spain to travel because it combines history, culture, and beach life in one convenient location, making it one of the best vacation destinations in Spain for a well-rounded Spanish experience.

Things to do & see in Málaga

• Alcazaba Fortress
• Gibralfaro Castle
• Picasso Museum
• Málaga Cathedral
• Malagueta Beach
• Port of Málaga
• Historic old town
• Day trips to Ronda or Nerja.

Malaga Travel Cost Guide

• Average Daily Cost (per person): $193 (€165)
• One-Day Spending (average):
  • Meals: $70 (€60)
  • Transportation: $36 (€31)
  • Hotels: $175 (€149)
• Trip Cost for Two People:
  • One Week: $2,704 (€2,310)

5 Best Cities to Visit in Spain

If you are short on time or looking for a vacation that packs a punch, here are the five best cities to visit in Spain. They capture the country’s real diversity, culture, and charm.

1. Madrid
2. Barcelona
3. Seville
4. Granada
5. San Sebastián

These five cities are ideal if you want a compact itinerary. It will include everything. There would be history, culture, gastronomy, and Mediterranean vibes.

They are also some of the best vacation destinations in Spain for first-time visitors or travellers looking for a well-rounded experience.

Practical Tips For the Best Places to Travel in Spain

Best time to visit Spain:

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Winter (November) is perfect for cities like Granada and Seville — the best places to visit in Spain in November.

Getting around in Spain:

Spain’s high-speed trains connect most major cities, making it easy to combine Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. For Andalusian towns or coastal villages, renting a car gives flexibility.

Booking:

Reserve tickets in advance for popular sites like the Alhambra, Sagrada Família, and Guggenheim Museum to avoid long lines.

Food & drinks in Spain:

Don’t miss local specialities like paella in Valencia, pintxos in San Sebastián, tapas in Seville, and churros in Madrid.

Day trips:

From Madrid, visit Toledo and Segovia. From Málaga, explore Ronda or Nerja. From Barcelona, take a trip to Sitges or Montserrat.

Visit the Best Travel Destinations of Spain

Spain offers an unbeatable combination of culture, history, food, and scenery. It is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations in Latin America’s European equivalent for charm, adventure, and variety. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the sun-soaked beaches of Málaga, these are the best places to travel in Spain that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep love for everything Spanish.