40+ Incredible Things to do in Spain

Last Updated on November 8, 2023

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The country of Spain offers a unique and rich culture which should not be missed.

From the food to the beautiful landscapes and the lively Spanish way of life, after a holiday here you may never want to leave.

Actually, after you’ve tried out all the best things to do in Spain, I know for a fact you won’t want to leave.

Despite eating your weight in Spanish food (which is delicious and well worth it by the way), there are lots of unique things to do in Spain.

With Spain being so big and with so much on offer in this beautiful country, you may be wondering what to do in Spain and what the best places to visit are.

Here are 40+ of the Best Things to Do in Spain!

1. Take a Cooking Class in Barcelona

Suggested by Owl Over The World

When visiting Spain trying the local food is an absolute must.

The Spanish cuisine is just amazing but unfortunately, in Barcelona sometimes it could be very difficult to find the great and authentic one.

Luckily, you can go even further than just finding a good place to eat but joining a unique experience: The Grandma’s Cooking Barcelona.

I had such a great time in the cooking class and the food that we all prepared together was just incredibly tasty. I could eat the same thing every day.

Seriously, don’t miss out on one of the coolest things you can do in Spain.

🛌🏼 Find the best accommodation in Barcelona

2. The Mercado de Motores, Madrid

Suggested by Helen On Her Holidays

If your visit to Madrid falls on the second weekend of the month, don’t miss the Mercado de Motores.

This quirky food and flea market is held in a grand old train station not far from the centre.

Visiting here makes for a fun afternoon of bargain hunting, eating and drinking, listening to live music and maybe catching a film in the pop-up cinema.

It’s one of the most unique things to do in Madrid. But for most of the month, this is Madrid’s railway museum.

Stroll up and down the platforms between the historic trains browsing vintage stalls and one-off gems from Madrid’s most interesting homeware, fashion and accessories designers.

When you’ve worked up a hunger (or thirst), exchange cash for tokens to spend at one of the many food stalls inside the station, or the food trucks parked in the grounds.

3. Camp Nou Tour

Suggested by Tiki Touring Kiwi

Camp Nou is home to one of, if not, the most recognisable football teams in the world, FC Barcelona.

When you visit Barcelona, you can stand pitchside on the hallowed turf and learn about the clubs history in the Camp Nou Museum.

Both experiences are part of the Camp Nou Tour – one of the cool things to do in Spain.

This is one of the best audio tours I’ve experienced and even if you’re a football fan you can enjoy this tour as FC Barcelona is ‘more than just a club’.

They’ve influenced the cities culture over the years as a gateway for the waves of immigrants coming to Barcelona to integrate into society.

As you’ll learn on the audio tour, when FC Barcelona is successful, things tend to be good in general around Barcelona.

4. Visit Ronda

Suggested by You Could Travel

The beautiful city of Ronda is located in the province of Malaga, more or less two hours drive away from Seville.

The best thing to do in this Spanish city is to simply meander around with a camera in your hand.

Chances are, you will probably end up seeing the place through your camera lens, as Ronda is so stunning, you won’t be able to stop photographing it from all angles.

Ronda is well known for its deep gorges carved by the River Guadalevin.

Amongst the main attractions are The Three Bridges called the Roman Bridge, The Old Bridge and The New Bridge which span the 100 plus metre canyon.

Since Ronda is in Andalucia, it can only mean one thing: lively locals, bustling restaurants and delicious tapas which will surely make the trip to Ronda all the better.

If you want to take advantage of the weather, visiting Ronda is one of the best things to do in Spain in May.

5. Wine Tasting in Rioja

Suggested by Savored Journeys

La Rioja is one of Spain’s most well known wine regions. It’s a perfect area to explore if you love wine, because it’s easy to get to, easy to navigate, and it’s very welcoming to wine lovers.

La Rioja is a large wine region and it’s split up into smaller growing zones called Alta, Baja and Alavesa.

There are bodegas of interest to wine tourists in each of these areas, but most tourists tend to center themselves in Alavesa.

La Rioja is mostly known for its Tempranillo wines that are aged to perfection before being sold. You can try those wines at the dozens of bodegas (wineries) that are spread around the area.

Be sure to make an appointment in advance for a wine tour and tasting, and get ready to see some of the most beautiful vineyards and wineries in the world.

🛌🏼 Find the best accommodation in Rioja

6. Drinking Cider in Asturias, Spain

Suggested by Where in the World is Nina

I will be the first person to admit—I regularly don’t like cider. The overly sweet smell and taste totally puts me off.

However, this isn’t what you’re going to get in Asturias. The cider here is different in many ways and it’s actually more of an experience than just a drink!

Walk into a restaurant or better yet, a cidery, in Asturias and grab a shot (yes, a shot) of some of the best cider you’ve ever had! The cider here is extremely fresh and is poured by the shot.

The bottle of cider is lifted up high while poured into the glass below so it can create bubbles.

You then drink the shot in one go because if you let the cider sit, the bubbles are lost and the cool cider pouring technique goes to waste!

I’ve never had cider so good and I was easily entertained by the pouring methods, that in combo with the wonderful beaches – I was in heaven in Asturias!

This is one of the best things to do in Spain for cider lovers!

7. Visit Gran Canaria

Suggested by My Normal Gay Life

Gran Canaria is one of the Spain’s Canary Islands.

The island is known for its eclectic nightlife, LGBT-friendliness, and serving as a stopover for many cruise ships but don’t let that fool you.

Visit the island for its natural wonders and you’re in for a pleasant surprise – they’re some of the most unique places to visit in Spain.

With year-round warm temperatures, the island is home to many beaches including my favorite Gran Canaria beaches Play Guigui, a secluded black sand beach.

Don’t forget the incredible dunes reminiscent of the Sahara Desert.

There’s also plenty of hiking with the most beautiful trek taking you to Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria’s highest point.

One of my favorite outdoor activities to do in Spain is touring Bodega Berrazales, the only coffee plantation in Europe, where you can sample wine, coffee, and learn to make Canarian mojo sauce.

Gran Canaria checks all the boxes and is definitely worth a visit!

🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. I recommend either SafetyWing or World Nomads.

8. Visit Girona

Suggested by Travel Photo Discovery

One of the good things about Spain is that it’s a great place for day trips from major cities.

Girona, just an hour train ride east of Barcelona, is one of those less touristy cities in Spain that really gives you a good view of the lifestyle in Costa Brava.

A medieval city with an historic center and more modern district closer to the Onyar river which runs through the city center.

It’s fun to walk through the old parts of the city and climb up to the cathedral for fantastic views of the entire city below.

Another fun tour would be to walk around the ramparts of the city to get different scenic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Locals love to hang out in the many squares in the city and along the river especially in the evening hours.

At night, the city really comes alive with people, cafes that spill out into the streets, music and lively street performances.

Girona is oozes historic charm, fun squares to hang out in and cool walks along riverfront areas that have markets on the bridges and various squares to explore.

This magnificent city is one of the best places to visit in Spain!

9. Cycling in Catalonia

Suggested by Daves Travel Pages

Catalonia is one of my favourite regions in Spain to explore by bike.

It seems to have the perfect mix of beautiful countryside, medieval towns, heritage, culture, and quiet cycling routes.

This wonderful network of cycling lanes includes many which run well away from any road traffic. Exploring these lanes is one of the most fun things to do in Spain!

The Vias Verdes or Greenways in particular are a joy to cycle on, whether just taking a day ride, or embarking on a much longer bicycle tour.

They tend to run mainly along old railway lines, and have been purposefully developed as cycling infrastructure. If only more countries around the world could follow in the same way!

Interested in finding out more about cycling in Catalonia? Here’s Dave’s Travel Pages guide to cycling in Catalonia.

10. Visit San Sebastian

Suggested by The Travelling Tom

San Sebastian may not be the first place you think of going when you visit Spain, but it should definitely be on your itinerary!

This city in Northern Spain is a beautiful and culturally rich destination. One of the best things to do is to hike Monte Igeldo.

From the top you will get an incredible view of the city below and the mountains in the distance – it’s one of the best things to see in Spain!

San Sebastian has a number of fantastic beaches within easy distance of the city centre. La Concha is a beautiful beach with incredible views out into the Bay of Biscay.

While Playa Zurriola is the place to go if you want to do a bit of surfing!

It may not be the most well-known destination in Spain, but San Sebastian is one place you definitely can’t leave out of your trip to Spain!

🛌🏼 Find the best accommodation in San Sebastian

11. Visit Malaga

Suggested by In The Loop Travel

For many people, visiting Malaga is one of the best things to do in Spain.

Malaga is the birthplace of legendary artist Pablo Picasso, and this gorgeous city in southern Spain’s Costa del Sol offers a museum dedicated to Picasso.

Visitors can also see a lovely historic Old Town area and plenty of other attractions, such as a Roman theater and the Moorish fortress Alcazaba.

For a relaxing day or some fun in the sun, you’ll also love the city beach and its inviting boardwalk.

The yellow sands stretch wide, and you can join tourists and residents alike who come to splash in the sea or work on their tans.

The well-developed promenade is ideal for walking, jogging or biking.

It even has outdoor workout equipment, and there are several small restaurants and bars to settle in for a cold beer or tasty tapas meal.

12. Eat Paella in Valencia

Suggested by Worldwide Shopping Guide

One of the best things about Spain is its cuisine, especially paella.

Paella is something that most of us have tried at least once, but a trip to Valencia is a chance to try it in its most authentic setting.

Paella originates from Valencia and, although you’ll find plenty of restaurants selling paella in Valencia itself, one of the best and most atmospheric places to try is in The Parque Natural de la Albufera.

Situated 25 km outside of Valencia, the Parque Natural de la Albufera is where the rice for dishes like Paella, Arroz a Banda, and All i Pebre is grown.

Take the time to wander around the town, visit the surrounding rice fields, and take a boat ride through the marshes, before settling in for a paella lunch.

You’ll find many types of paella on offer including paella de marisco and paella de verduras, but when in Valencia it just has to be paella Valenciana.

13. Walk the Camino de Santiago

Suggested by Alternative Travelers

The Camino de Santiago is more than just one of the best experiences in Spain – it may just be one of the best experiences of your life.

It was certainly one of the best things to do in Spain for me and countless others I met along the way.

The Camino is a medieval pilgrimage route ending in Santiago de Compostela in the northwest region of Spain.

Today, people walk the Camino for myriad reasons. It draws people struggling with loss, life direction, or those overwhelmed by our busy world and in need of time to disconnect.

Others do it purely for the physical activity.

Taking one, two, or five+ weeks (depending on where you start walking) to walk across the beautiful and diverse landscapes of northern Spain is a transformative experience.

It’s a great immersion into Spain as well.

Best of all, it takes very little planning as you simply walk each day to the next place to stay. Head to our Camino de Santiago packing list for tips on what to bring.

Don’t miss out on one of the best things to visit in Spain!

14. Visit the Mercado Lonja del Barranco (Food Hall) in Seville, Spain

Suggested by Sometimes Home

The food in Spain is incredible. It’s particularly delicious in the south of Spain, or area known as “Andalucia.”

You’ll surely enjoy food all at many individual restaurants during your trip but if you want a really cool (dare I say “trendy”) experience be sure to visit Mercado Lonja del Barranco food hall.

There’s something for everyone there, and the best part is you can sample everything! I purchased a slice of a traditional Spanish omelette when I was there.

Indulge in a portion of salmarejo (a cold Spanish soup), eat huge delectable olives, or purchase a helping of paella to name just a few options there.

15. Day Trip to Segovia from Madrid

Suggested by The Travel Blogs

Segovia is a small town in the foothills of the mountains, just north of Madrid, and easily accessible by train from the capital.

Growing up around one of the finest remaining Roman aqueducts, the small city screams of history dating back over two thousand years.

Other sites include a stunning gothic Cathedral and an impenetrable castle, the Segovia Alcazar.

I’d highly recommend the tour of the castle, the audio guide is very informative.

If you’re feeling fit, you can climb the 152 steps to the top of the tower for some jaw-dropping views back over the city and surrounding landscapes.

Finally, it wouldn’t be a Spanish city if it didn’t have its own iconic food.

In Segovia, it’s Cochinillo Asado, a roast suckling pig, cooked in a very special oven. The locals take great pride in this dish, and after a quick taste, you’ll see why.

A day trip to Segovia from Madrid is one of the best things to do in Spain!

🛌🏼 Find the best accommodation in Madrid

16. The Alhambra

Suggested by Kids and Compass

The Alhambra in Granada is one of Spain’s most famous destinations. It’s a former Moorish palace which sits high on a hill overlooking Granada, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inside the Alhambra you can explore a huge complex of buildings – some are parts of the old Moorish palace and others are later, Christian additions.

Don’t miss the beautiful water gardens in the Generalife palace – they’re filled with fountains, pools and roses and you can get a great view of the rest of the Alhambra.

The main highlight is the Nasrid Palace which is a series of rooms and courtyards.

They are covered in sumptuous Moorish tiles and carvings, and the domed stuccoed ceilings are breathtaking.

Visiting the Alhambra is the best thing to do in Spain if you love architecture! Just be sure to book your Alhambra tickets as far in advance as you can.

17. Visit the Mosque/Cathedral of Cordoba

Suggested by Packmeto

When planning your activities in Spain, be sure to visit Cordoba so you can visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. It’s one of the best things to do in mainland Spain.

This UNESCO World Heritage site, located in Spain’s southern region of Andalusia, has been passed through many hands from Roman temple to church to mosque.

Today, the site combines features of both a cathedral with its numerous chapels as well as a mosque with the inclusion of a mihrab.

However, what immediately captures your attention are the more than 850 pillars topped with horseshoe arches in alternating strips of red and white that divide up the prayer hall.

Together, they make for a stunning visual and a delight for any visitor to explore. Head to the top of the bell tower for a great view of the rest of Cordoba as well.

18. Visiting Toledo

Suggested by The Royal Tour Blog

Only an hour train ride from Madrid is the old walled city of Toledo.

The Capital under Isabella, Toledo is highlighted by an incredible cathedral, old synagogue, and a maze of cobblestone streets and alleys.

When you visit the cathedral, make sure to use their free audio tour, included with admission.

It is about 2 hours and well worth it. Head into the Jewish Quarter for some amazing history, and the best view from the walls!

Note: walking in Toledo is steep and uneven, so keep that in mind when visiting.

19. Visit Avila

Suggested by Lemonicks

Gazing down at the city from a vantage point, Ávila looks like a setup from a storybook. Ávila is more about traditional Spanish culture than a holiday mecca.

Thousands of tourists visit it each year, for, it offers a lot of things.

The Old City Walls – The World Heritage city of Ávila in Spain is protected by formidable fortified medieval walls around it and you immediately fall in love with the town.

The walls are considered among the finest city defences in the world. Do the City Walls tour, one of the cool things in Spain.

Cathedral of Avila – One of Avila’s oldest religious buildings, the Cathedral of Avila is heralded as representative of the finest Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance architecture in Europe.

Don’t miss the Cathedral Museum too. It houses a large artefact collection including tapestries and embroidered pieces that are extremely valuable.

Pilgrims also flock to Ávila because of its connection with Saint Teresa.

The Museum of Oriental Art – This fascinating museum is a showcase for Asian art.

The collections include some stunning ivory carvings and metalwork, and a room of exotic animals.

Visit Avila’s Tapas Bars – Like any other city in Spain, Avila is also known for its tapas bars.

In some of them you get a free plate of tapas with each drink or, even if you have to pay, they’re only around 2.00.

Eat Avila Veal – Avila has been world famous for centuries for its finest veal producers.

Many of Avila’s restaurants, whether they are high-end exclusives or less expensive eateries serve this succulent meat.

Most of these veal dishes are served with Avila’s other speciality, beans or Barco de Avila.

Yemas de Avila is a dessert made of egg yolks & sugar, you cannot avoid it. People buy it as a souvenir also.

20. Watch Flamenco

Suggested by Untold Morsels

What is Spain best known for? Many people will tell you that is this amazing and flamboyant dancing style!

If you have time for just one cultural activity in Spain, make it flamenco. This iconic Spanish art form evolved in Andalusia from the dances and songs of gypsy immigrants several centuries ago.

Today there are countless dance forms and musical styles that are known as flamenco. Some are sad and soulful and others are fun and festive.

I love the rhythmic hand clapping, foot stomping and jaleo. Translated as “hellraising”, jaleo are the shouts of encouragement as the performances become more intense.

You can book flamenco shows in advance or catch a street performance. But the best shows are found at intimate, hard to find bars in cities like Seville and Granada.

21. Montserrat Mountain

Suggested by Lelongweekend

Montserrat is an incredible destination in more ways than one.

The mountain whose name in Catalan translates to “serrated mountain” is indeed a jagged handsaw-shaped giant.

Rising up to 1,236m at its highest peak, it’s an imposing sight with its rugged teeth-like ridges jutting up into the sky.

A little more than halfway up the mountain you’ll find the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, one of the most sacred sights in Spain and home to the Black Madonna.

To get up the mountain, you can drive to the Monastery, take the cable car, hike, or ride the rack railway.

Take your time to visit the monastery and the museum before taking the funicular higher still!

There are fantastic walks to do at the top of the mountain and even better views. Be sure to schedule in enough time so you’re not rushed at the top.

In fact, to avoid the tourist crowd, this is one of the most unique and best things to do in Spain in October, when there’s still sun but not as much heat!

22. Visit Mallorca

Suggested by Travelbooksfood

If you are looking for a nice island getaway in the Mediterranean, then you are actually spoilt for choices. But I loved my 2 days in Mallorca, a Balearic island just off the coast of Barcelona.

Most people prefer the party island, Ibiza but I was looking for some peace and quiet when I went to Mallorca.

Don’t get me wrong. The capital, Palma De Mallorca is a party destination as well but I stayed in the North part of the island called Port De Pollenca.

There is something for everyone; in fact, this is one of the best things to do in Spain with family. If you love history, then there are numerous places to visit in Palme De Mallorca.

Go orange hunting in the town of Soller or take a tram from Port De Soller to Soller.

See the monastery in Valldemossa where the famous composer Chopin once lived with his lover, George Sand (Amantine Lucile Dupin).

If you love to go beach hopping, you are sure to find some azure and turquoise coloured beaches around Mallorca like Cala Millor or Cap de Formentor in the north.

Even Port De Pollenca boasts of a gorgeous beach. If you love hiking, then there are many hikes around the Serra Da Tramuntana mountain range.

Mallorca is definitely a must do in Spain and I hope you get to enjoy this island as much as I did.

💡 PACKING TIP: Make sure you bring a good snorkel, water shoes and a fast-drying towel for all of the beach-going you’re about to do!

23. Attend the Wine Fight (Batalla de Vino) Festival in Haro

Suggested by Roaming Around the World

One of the best things to do in Spain is to attend one of the many crazy festivals that go on throughout the country each year.

You can run with the bulls in Pamplona or join the La Tomatina festival to pelt friends with tomatoes. But our favorite summer fiesta in Spain is the Wine Fight!

Known as the Batalla de Vino (Battle of Wine), this wild festival takes place in the village of Haro.

Every year at the end of June, people descend to this wine-producing town in the heart of Spain’s La Rioja wine region to wage a war using wine.

The Spanish red wine is squirted from sprayers and dumped by the bucketful, soaking everyone to the core.

During the night before, there’s a huge party that rages in the village’s atmospheric alleyways.

Of course, not all the wine is squandered during the battle. There’s lots of wine that gets consumed too! But after one long night, the war begins.

It’s one of the most crazy things to do in Spain, and it’s all so much fun!

24. Day Trip to Cordoba

Suggested by Outside Suburbia

If you find yourself in Seville, you can hop on a train to visit the Candy cane double arches of Mesquita in Cordoba as a day trip.

The Mesquita also called the Grand Mosque or Cathedral of Cordoba is quite unique.

Although originally built as a Mosque, the center of this magnificent building was converted to a Cathedral after the Christians conquered Spain.

Walk through the forest of pillars made from different colored granite, marble and alabaster supporting dozens of horse shoe arches, that looks like candy canes.

The tiny streets around the Mesquita are filled with shops and restaurants.

Lunch at the Las Piconeras was one of the best we had in Andalucía – we had the best Paella, fried eggplant with honey, olives and salmorejo – which is like gazpacho but richer and smoother.

Next walk through the narrow Flower street, lined with blue pots brimming with foliage and a nice view of the bell tower of the Mesquita.

The historians will want to go see the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Spanish for “Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs”).

Isabella and her husband Ferdinand used the Alcázar for one of the first permanent tribunals of the Spanish Inquisition.

It was also used as a headquarters for their campaign against the Nasrid dynasty in Granada which was the last of the Moorish kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula.

The monarchs are said to have met Christopher Columbus in the Alcázar as he prepared to take his first voyage to the Americas.

The Alcázar also later served as a garrison for Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops in 1800.

Then walk on the Roman bridge built over the Guadalquivir river, this river runs through the entire length of Spain; before catching the train back to Seville.

25. Visit Sevilla for Semana Santa

Suggested by World on a Whim

One of the most unique experiences I have had in Spain is visiting Sevilla for Semana Santa otherwise known as Holy Week.

Each year on the week leading up to Easter Sunday, brotherhoods from the 100 plus churches in Sevilla walk in processions all day and all night.

These brotherhoods carry floats with lifelike depictions of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.

This may sound quite serious and for those who are religious it absolutely is, but you do not have to be Catholic or even believe in religion to enjoy the beauty of these floats.

You will undoubtedly be affected by the smell of burning incense and the vision of 2000 candles slowly being carried toward you.

They will be held by robed men, women, and children walking barefoot on a street where all the lights have been turned off.

Oh, and it’s completely silent except for the marching bands that announce the arrival of the float and a lone singer on a balcony above the crowd.

Don’t expect to get very much sleep because some of the best processions start at midnight and end 12 or 13 hours later.

But, a solid power nap from 3AM to 6AM will sustain you as will the bars packed with locals and tourists alike which are open all night for those celebrating the holiday.

26. Visit Costa Brava

Suggested by Foodie Flashpacker

A road trip through Costa Brava is the best way to experience one of my new favorite regions of Spain.

Costa Brava has everything- gorgeous beaches, amazing food and wine and charming medieval villages and larger cities, both full of history.

I recently spent a week exploring the area and hope to return soon to see more. I recommend using Girona as a base for your road trip like I did, as it’s centrally located.

Make sure to allow at least a couple of days to explore Girona itself as there’s lots to see and there.

From Girona you can tour vineyards and olive oil farms, learning what goes into making each of the products before you sample them.

The region also has one of the highest concentration of Michelin starred chefs in all of Spain so there are tons of amazing restaurants.

Make plans to road trip Costa Brava on your next visit to Spain!

27. Visit Aljaferia Palace in Zaragoza

Suggested by Fortwoplz

Exploring the Aljaferia Palace is one of the most unique things you can do in Zaragoza, Spain.

This stunning Moorish palace is truly a remarkable gem and a rare historical architectural monument from the Taifas time that is still standing today.

Built in the 11th century, Aljaferia was originally the residence of the Banu Hud dynasty. After the reconquering of Zaragoza by the Christian armies, it became the home of the kings of Aragon.

The interlacing arches, geometric carvings, and ornate brickwork reflects the coexistence of the Muslim and Christian cultures.

That is the reason why UNESCO declared the Aljaferia Palace as one of the most representative Mudejar architectures in 2001.

There are many palaces, but Aljaferia is a true must see in Spain!

28. The White Villages of Andalusia

Suggested by A Nomad on the Loose

Seville and Granada are Andalusia’s jewels, but don’t miss the White Villages between them when you’re in the south of Spain.

These small towns and villages, so named thanks to the white walls of (nearly all) their buildings, are full of charm, tradition, and postcard-ready photo ops.

A day trip is enough time for a drive through a few of the towns so you can sample the gorgeous views, visit the village churches, and taste freshly-pressed olive oil.

Or, pick a town to stop overnight in and spend some time with the friendly locals.

The adventurous can make it a road trip between Seville and Granada, and perhaps include the coastal city of Malaga as well.

29. Visit Menorca

Suggested by The Roving Puffin

Whether it is for the majestic wild landscapes, the remote beaches with clear turquoise water, or the stunning cliffs, you should not miss visiting Menorca!

This small island is renown for its prehistoric monuments but remains a fairly unknown touristic destination, in contrast with its big sister, Majorca.

You will be stunned by the wonderful hiking and biking routes along the coastline, and by exploring picturesque villages nestled in landscapes you can only find in Spain.

You will admire the aquatic fauna of the rugged shore, and you will reach inaccessible beaches on horseback.

With regards to food, your palate will be pampered by typical Spanish dishes, amazing fresh fish, and of course by the famous “Caldereta de Langosta”, the local lobster stew.

Visiting Menorca is by far one of the best things to do in Spain!

30. Explore Gaudí’s Works in Barcelona

Suggested by Travelnuity

It’s impossible to visit Barcelona and not see some of the works by renown architect, Antoni Gaudí.

His most famous work is La Sagrada Família, his masterpiece of a church that towers over the city and will hopefully be finished in 2027.

This ornate church is actually one of the most famous things in Spain, but it’s worthwhile hunting down more of his works.

Even if you’re not normally into architecture, his inventiveness and use of colour make his works stand out from the ordinary.

There’s Palau Güell, just off La Rambla, plus his townhouses Casa Milà, Casa Battló and Casa Vicens, in the Eixample and Gràcia districts.

It’s possible to view each from the street (one of the many free things to do in Spain), or pay extra to enter inside.

But his other most popular work is undoubtedly Park Güell, with its colourful touches and stunning views of Barcelona down below.

Just one warning: make sure you book tickets in advance to each!

31. Watch Sculptures Burn at Las Fallas, Valencia

Suggested by Travel-Ling

This one is for the pyros. Las Fallas is an annual festival in Valencia, held on 15 – 19 March, that celebrates the spring equinox and the patron saint, St Joseph.

During the week, the beautiful town of Valencia turns into a huge party, filled with music, paella contests, beauty pageants, fireworks and bullfighting.

However, the main attractions are the huge cartoon-like structures that adorn the streets.

The locals spend a year creating these structures to put on display and compete for the best prize during Las Fallas, and on the evening of the final night, they are all set up in flames.

The atmosphere during the week is electrifying, and the structures are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

But the most unforgettable aspect of this festival is joining in with everyone else to watch these amazing sculptures (and a year’s worth of work) go up in flames.

📸 PRO TIP: My go-to camera for all my travels is the Sony A7iii – I highly recommend it!

32. Kayak in La Herradura on Costa Tropical

Suggested by The World in my Pocket

Costa Tropical is a fantastic region to visit in Spain all year round, because of the warm climate and the high average temperatures.

Located around 70 kilometres of Malaga, the towns on Costa Tropical are mostly white, have castles at the highest points and beautiful long sandy beaches.

The Cerro Gordo National Park, which includes the town of La Herradura, is a perfect place to go kayaking, year round.

The promenade in La Herradura is dotted with plenty of nautical companies that will take you kayaking and snorkelling on Costa Tropical.

Being inside a bay, kayaking here is pretty easy, with a very mild current when there is wind. This is one of the best things to do in Spain with friends.

A kayaking adventure usually lasts around 2.5 hours and follows the coast line towards the hidden caves inside the rocks, accessible only by boat.

One of the caves has an altar inside, which is pretty interesting to see. Also, the water inside the Doves Cave is changing to a stunning shade of turquoise when you paddle through it.

Usually, the snorkelling packages come with a half an hour of snorkelling as well, in the clearest water you have probably ever seen.

There are plenty of things to see underwater, depending in which part of the National Park you go. You can spot different types of fish, octopuses, even sand eels if you are lucky.

33. Visit Cádiz

Suggested by The World Was Here First

If you’re looking for a fantastic, historic destination to visit in Southern Spain that doesn’t make it on enough Spanish itineraries, then Cádiz is a great option.

Located in the Andalucía region in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is situated on its own peninsula and is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Europe.

There are lots of things to do in Cádiz, however, there are certainly a few that stand out more than others.

No visit to this Andalucían seaside town would be complete without checking out the beautiful Cádiz cathedral.

While you can pay to climb the church’s bell tower, better views of the city can be had from the Torre Tavira, which also provides a Camera Obscura demonstration with the entry.

If you’re interested in Andalucían cuisine, make sure to spend some time browsing the Mercado Central.

Here you can purchase fresh fish, fruits and vegetables, cured meats, delicious olives, and other local delicacies direct from the producers.

It is also worth it to visit the Castillo de San Sebastian — though the castle itself is closed to visitors, the walk along the breakwater provides beautiful views of the harbour.

Cádiz is easily reached from cities like Seville and can be visited as a day trip or as a destination in its own right.

34. Celebrate Three Kings Day

Suggested by Chris and Reg Travel

Celebrated on January 6th, Three Kings Day marks the 12th day of Christmas in Spain and other Latin American Countries.

However, on the days leading up to this ceremonious event, children prepare their traditions in the form of letters to the Three Kings asking for gifts.

Some even leave their shoes outside the door so that the Three Kings will fill them with gifts.

It is also customary for children to leave a drink out for each one of the Three Kings and some food and drink for their camels.

The January 5^th, the day before Three Kings Day the Spanish city streets are lined with people preparing to welcome the Three Kings during their parade processions.

Each of the cities in Spain celebrates its Kings differently.

For example in Madrid being one of the largest parades hosting about 100,000 participants kids await the Kings to throw candy.

They also hold umbrellas upside down to make sure to catch as much candy as possible.

In Barcelona, they welcome their Kings by boat whereas, in Alcoy, which hosts Spain’s oldest and longest-running parade they celebrate the end of the festivities with fireworks.

The holiday symbolizes the twelve days that it took for the three Wise Men to cross the desert to Bethlehem to find baby Jesus.

With all the different traditions around the globe, one thing remains consistent among them all and that is indulging in a “Rosca de Reyes” which is also called King’s Bread.

The tradition is to hide a Baby Jesus figurine inside the bread and the person whose slice has the figurine must prepare tamales for everyone on the Day of the Candles on Feb. 2.

If you love celebrating the spirit of the holiday season check out our friends over at Chris and Reg Travel for some great Christmas Markets in Europe.

35. Plaça de Catalunya

Suggested by Trijit Mallick from BudgetTravelBuff

This is the third largest and most famous square in Barcelona. This iconic place is the meeting point of Barcelona’s most prominent two streets – Rambla and Passeig de Gracia.

King Alfonso XIII opened this plaza in 1927 before which it was a rural area just outside the city walls.

You will find six sculptural groups around the plaza that represent the four Catalan capital cities, wisdom and labour.

Plaça de Catalunya is considered as the Heart of Barcelona for its liveliness and geographical location.

It is located at the central point of Barcelona, surrounded by shopping malls, branded stores, bars and restaurants.

This is a round-shaped square and beautifully decorated with fountains, grass verges, sculptures, statues designed by famous Spanish and French artists of that time.

You will be really amazed by the vibrancy of this busiest square. It is always crowded and a favourite hangout zone among locals and travelers.

You can enjoy a lovely evening here with the live musical performances which are very common in Plaça de Catalunya.

If you are a budget traveler then this place should be in your bucket list as you don’t have to spend anything to enjoy the plaza – one of the must go places in Spain.

The best time to visit Plaça de Catalunya is from April to June and October to December. If you visit this place don’t forget to go to Hard Rock Cafe which is right beside the plaza.

Nothing can be better than viewing the plaza with a cup of coffee and live music performance.

36. Logrono

Suggested by Amber from Food And Drink Destinations

In the heart of the Rioja wine region lies one of Spain’s best culinary cities. No, it isn’t San Sebastian, but rather Logrono, the lesser-known yet equally delicious food city.

The capital city of La Rioja, Logrono is used by travelers to explore one of the top wine regions in the world.

It’s one of the main cities on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Logrono is also home to one of the best Spanish dining experiences – a pinchos crawl.

These small bites of food normally served on a skewer or a stick are all the rage in Logrono.

The focal point for pinchos in Logrono is on Calle Laurel, one of the best places to go in Spain.

Running through the center of Logrono, just South of the Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Rodonda, Calle Laurel in Logrono is lined with pinchos bars.

All of them serve up mouth-watering small plates and pour glasses of incredible Rioja wines.

A few pinchos to keep an eye out for in Logrono include the Gilda the dish that started the pinchos movement.

Also, look for setas, which are grilled mushrooms cooked in garlic and served with a prawn on top. They specialize in cochinillo, which is roast suckling pig.

One unique pinchos is the huevo explosion, which is a quail egg, wrapped in a thin pastry and deep-fried.

As the name indicates, when you bite in, the egg explodes so be careful. Only three hours from Madrid, Logrono should be included on any food lovers’ trip to Spain.

37. Do the Via Ferrata

Suggested by Two Get Lost

One of the more adventurous things to do in Spain has to be getting out into the mountains and exploring the highest peaks on a via ferrata trip in the Catalonia countryside.

The Tarragona region is well known by climbers because of its excellent range of challenging routes, but is much less well known by tourists, making it a bit of a hidden gem.

As the region is only a few hours from Barcelona it is the ideal destination for anyone wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Here you can relax in quaint villages steeped in history and charm, such as the breathtakingly beautiful Siurana.

Or, for some excitement, you can take part in some serious adrenaline-pumping activities (all designed for beginners and pros alike).

Based a short drive from Siurana, the outdoors professionals Ebroasis, offer a range of activities including kayaking on the River Ebro, canyoning and even fishing trips.

But the real highlight for us was the thrilling Via Ferrata.

Via Ferrata is an Italian name meaning ‘iron way’, due to the fact that the course is made possible by the iron fixings in the mountainside.

Sometimes these fixing will be in the form of metal bars, or steps, or ladders. Sometimes it will be a tightrope across a canyon and sometimes there are no steps at all and you just have to rock climb!

You are clipped in and attached by harness (provided by the company) for all of the potentially dangerous parts, so you are perfectly safe.

But it is still a challenge to overcome that human fear of heights.

The wonderful thing about Via Ferrata (apart from the adrenaline rush!) is the fact that you can access parts of the mountain that you wouldn’t be able to from walking, or even climbing alone.

It’s possible to climb across valleys and traverse the mountain to reach the most incredible views and see Spain from a completely different point of view.

We got to experience the wild nature of the mountain peaks and look out over the most incredible views.

The Via Ferrata takes about half a day and you can book for the morning or the afternoon. You will need to dress in sports wear and be prepared for physical activity.

Prices start from € 25 and Ebroasis promises an English speaking qualified instructor with high quality gear provided.

38. Visit Sitges

Suggested by Robe Trotting

If you’re searching for an exciting destination in Spain, Sitges is a spot that has it all. There’s art, beaches, nightlife, delicious food, outdoor activities, and beautiful natural landscapes.

The seaside town of Sitges is located on the Costa Daurada, a stretch of Meditteranean beaches southwest of Barcelona. It’s an area known for shallow waters and a calm surf.

In Sitges, you’ll find 17 gorgeous beaches with golden sands, turquoise water, and natural rock formations. Despite their beauty, the beaches are rarely crowded and easy to get to.

The seaside is lined with luxury hotels, busy restaurants with wonderful views and a walking promenade.

Sitges is located just 35 km from Barcelona and is easily reached by train or bus in about 45 minutes.

Sitges is known for its nightlife scene. There are many gay bars, which makes Sitges a popular LGBT travel destination.

It’s common to find bars and late-night clubs busy well into the morning. The city has a busy social calendar with themed weeks and large events like Carnival where the city population swells.

During the day, the compact city is still busy with shopping, cute cafes and delicious tapas restaurants.

Visitors also love visiting the Church of Sant Bartomeu and Santa Tecla. It’s a picturesque church built into the seaside that you must add to your Instagram feed.

Whatever your reason for visiting Sitges, you’ll have something waiting for you and you won’t be disappointed.

🧳 Joining a Contiki tour was one of the best things I did when I took my first solo trip. Check out their latest deals here.

39. Attend Benicassim Music Festival

Suggested by Faramagan

When most people think of Spain, they imagine the picturesque seaside towns or the stunning beaches.

But did you know there is a music festival where you can dance to some of the world’s biggest bands under the stunning Spanish sunset?

Festival Internacional de Benicàssim (commonly abbreviated to FIB) allows you to do exactly that.

Taking place every July, it combines the biggest names in music with the tastiest Spanish food all on the shores of the seaside town of Benicassim – around 2 hours from Valencia.

Best of all, the music doesn’t start until 7pm allowing you to relax on the beach all day and dance all night until sunrise.

Attracting crowds from all over Europe, Benicassim Music Festival lasts 8 days with musical acts performing on the last 4 days.

If you can brave the heat, festival goers usually camp on site, or alternatively you can opt for a hotel room in town – though be quick they often book up months in advance!

Whether you’re a backpacker looking for a festival to remember or a couple after a seaside break like no other, Benicassim will prove one of the coolest things to do in Spain.

40. Visit Estepona

Suggested by Gourmand Trotter

Estepona is one of the most picturesque towns in Spain, and it’s beautifully located along the coast in Southern Spain.

It’s one of the hidden gems of Costa del Sol and it features both a charming old town as well as a several kilometer-long beach.

The best thing to do in Estepona is to just go for a stroll in the historic center and wander the small alleys. They are filled with old houses with beautiful architecture and details.

What’s even more stunning is the fact that each street has hundreds of colorful pots lined up on the walls.

Each street and alley has its own color on the pots, so you’ll find some streets filled with blue pots, one with yellow pots, one with green pots and so on.

It’s one of the coolest things in Spain; some of them even have cute patterns!

Additionally, there are lots of nice tapas bars and cafes where you can sit down and just enjoy the atmosphere. People-watching in Estepona is another favorite, both among locals and tourists.

You can easily get to Estepona from Malaga, Marbella, Torremolinos, and Fuengirola.

There are several direct buses every day, and there are also plenty of options to stay overnight at various hotels in Estepona.

41. Visit Ibiza

Suggested by The World Is My Playground

Ibiza, well known as the party island of the world, has so much more to offer than world-famous DJs and epic parties.

The island is recognized by UNESCO for its biodiversity and culture, in particular for the impressive fortified Upper Town and the two archaeological sites at Sa Caleta and Puig des Molins.

Start by exploring the Upper Town, also known as Dalt Vila, the pedestrian-only fortified hilltop that was built to protect the island against pirates hundreds of years ago.

At the top of Dalt Vila you can find the Ibiza Castle, an impressive and sprawling structure that has as many as seven ramps from all angles.

The castle is great to explore and learn about Ibiza’s history and culture, but also offers amazing panoramic views over every angle of the island.

Once you’re done exploring, head back to the foot of the castle and stroll around the old town.

The charming pedestrian-only cobbled street town is full of local shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and other gems.

Outside the main town, you have plenty to do around the island. Ibiza has some of the best beaches in the world.

Perhaps the best beach on the island is the unique Cala Comte, which is also one of the famous sunset spots on the island.

Take a boat tour of the island for an awesome day at sea or take a day trip to the nearby island of Formentera. Don’t miss the powder pink coral beach of Playa de Ses Illetes in Formentera.

If you want to visit one of the epic clubs on the island, after all, you’re in Ibiza, head to Playa d’en Bossa in the afternoon.

You’ll likely run into one of the club promoters and be able to score sweet discounts to the parties later that night (sometimes as much as 50%).

Ibiza is one of the top top places to see in Spain. It’s one of the Balearic Islands and can be easily reached from Barcelona, either via a short flight, or by ferry.

42. Visit Cueva del Soplao

Suggested by Travels with Talek

The Cueva del Soplao in the Catabria region in northern Spain are a network of caves that were created over 250 million years ago.

The administrative authority that manages these caves for tourism purposes has done a very good job of making them accessible to visitors.

They have attempted to recreate a mine so the visitors can have a mining experience, consistent with the area’s mining history.

First you board a little train that resembles a mining cart accompanied by a guide.

The train enters the mine in the total darkness and continues to go deeper and deeper into the inner recesses of the cave.

Once off the train, the guide leads you with a flashlight to a clearing.  All this time you have no idea of what is around you.

When the group has been collected into a small clearing, the lights will suddenly go on.

The sight is breathtaking; stalagmites, stalactites, crystallized formations dripping from the cave ceiling, as big as a cathedral, and protruding from the floor.

It’s one of the top things to see in Spain as far as we’re concerned.

One note of caution: The road that goes to the cave is narrow and dangerous. It will take you twice as long as you think to arrive so give yourself ample time.

Timing to arrive at the caves is key because the visits are timed to avoid crowds and preserve the integrity of the natural cave. Buy your tickets online and make sure you arrive on time.

Tickets are €13.50 for adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tell me below which things to do in Spain is the first on your list! Before you travel, make sure you check if you are eligible for an EU visa waiver, you can find the ETIAS Spain application here.

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