Spain Sites to Visit
Spain is the second most visited country in the world, and for good reason—it’s full of absolutely incredible places.
Whether it’s monuments, museums, or natural destinations where you can disconnect, the list of must-visit spots is endless!
So, if you’re getting ready to explore this amazing country where I’ve been living since 2011, I highly recommend you don’t miss these 15 Spain sites to visit!
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1. Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is undoubtedly one of the most famous Spain sites to visit, and for me, it’s truly a masterpiece!
Designed by the brilliant architect Antoni Gaudí, this basilica, whose construction began in 1882, combines Catalan modernism, Gothic art, and naturalistic influences.
Its exterior impresses with its richly sculpted facades, depicting biblical scenes and adorned with nature-inspired motifs.
Once inside, you’re bathed in multicolored light filtered through magnificent stained-glass windows.
Although still under construction, the Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Where?
The Sagrada Familia is located in Barcelona, in the Eixample district.
When?
The best time to visit the Sagrada Familia is between October and April, when tourist crowds are smaller. In the summer, the lines seem endless.
Where to Sleep?
Hotel Sagrada Familia ($$$): Just a few steps from the iconic monument, this hotel features a rooftop with breathtaking views of Gaudí’s masterpiece. Its elegantly simple rooms offer exceptional comfort. Book your stay now!
2. Alhambra
The Alhambra is a must-visit for anyone exploring Andalusia. A symbol of the refinement of Islamic art in Europe, this palace-fortress was built in the 13th century by the Nasrids.
Its stunning fountains, intricate arabesques, and the lush gardens of the Generalife make it an unmissable monument.
Among its marvels are the Patio of the Lions, the Palace of Comares, and the breathtaking views of Granada from its walls. Today, the Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where?
The Alhambra is located in Granada, Andalusia.
When?
The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when temperatures are pleasant and the gardens are at their peak.
Where to Sleep?
Hotel América ($$$): Located in a prime location within the Alhambra complex, this hotel offers exceptionally comfortable rooms—an ideal choice for couples. Book your stay now!
3. Palacio Real
The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the largest palaces in Europe and the official residence of the King of Spain, although the royal family no longer resides there.
Built in the 18th century, its majestic facade captures the attention of passersby, but it is its interior, adorned with frescoes, tapestries, and art collections, that truly impresses.
Among its most remarkable rooms are the Throne Room and the Hall of Mirrors.
Where?
The Royal Palace is located in Madrid, in the heart of the capital.
ALSO READ: 3 Days in Madrid: Best Things to Do
When?
The best time to visit the palace is in spring and autumn, when the temperatures are pleasant. In summer, Madrid’s scorching heat can make the visit a bit challenging.
Where to Sleep?
Hotel Opera ($$$$): If you’re looking for a royal stay, this hotel occupies a renovated 19th-century building. Located facing the palace, it is designed around the theme of music. Book your stay now!
4. Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata is one of the natural gems of Andalusia, renowned for its wild and unspoiled landscapes, with volcanic cliffs, paradise beaches, and secret coves with crystal-clear waters.
Its authentic white villages, where time seems to have stood still, add an even more unique charm.
The natural park includes some must-see spots, such as the Cabo de Gata lighthouse and the famous Playa de los Muertos.
Where?
Cabo de Gata is located at the far southeast of the province of Almería.
When?
To enjoy swimming and favorable hiking conditions, the period from May to October is the best time to visit!
Where to Sleep?
Hostal Puerto Genovés ($$): This guesthouse is located in the nature reserve and offers rooms with blue-and-white decor and classic furniture. You’ll also enjoy a terrace and a large garden. Book your stay now!
5. Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is an iconic city in Galicia as it is the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago, a thousand-year-old pilgrimage.
Its historic center, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and ancient monasteries.
The highlight is, of course, the majestic Santiago Cathedral, with its impressive Baroque facade and the supposed tomb of the apostle James, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year in search of history and spirituality.
Where?
Santiago de Compostela is located in the heart of Galicia, in the northwest of Spain.
When?
The best time to visit Santiago is between May and October. During the Feast of St. James (July 25th), the atmosphere is vibrant. Rain is common during this time, so don’t forget your raincoat no matter the season.
Where to Sleep?
Dream in Santiago ($): This hostel offers very affordable dormitory beds. It also features a garden, a lounge, and a terrace, making it easy to meet other travelers. Book your stay now!
6. Prado Museum
The Prado Museum is one of the most prestigious museums in the world. It’s no surprise, considering it houses works by renowned European painters like Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Rubens.
Among the must-see masterpieces, I’d highlight Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights, and Goya’s The Third of May 1808.
Where?
The Prado Museum is located in Madrid, at the heart of the capital, on the Paseo del Prado boulevard.
ALSO READ: 3 Days in Madrid: Best Things to Do
When?
Winter is the low season in Madrid, so the crowds will be less overwhelming. However, throughout the year, it is recommended to visit the Prado on weekdays and early in the morning to avoid the heavy crowds.
Where to Sleep?
Hostal Artistic B&B ($$$): This hotel offers rooms with very unique décor! It is located very close to the Prado and other major museums in Madrid. Some accommodations also include a balcony. Book your stay now!
7. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim is an icon of contemporary architecture and a symbol of Bilbao’s transformation.
Designed by Frank Gehry, this museum impresses with its undulating forms and titanium cladding. Puppy, its loyal guardian, is a work that will appeal to both children and adults.
Inside, visitors discover modern and contemporary art collections, showcasing works by Jeff Koons, Louise Bourgeois, and Anish Kapoor.
Where?
The Guggenheim Museum is located in Bilbao, along the Ría.
ALSO READ: 38 Things to Do in Bilbao
When?
Bilbao’s climate from April to October is indeed perfect for enjoying both the Guggenheim Museum and a relaxing stroll along the Ría. Visiting during the week and early in the morning is a great strategy to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the museum’s architectural and artistic wonders.
Where to Sleep?
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art ($$$): This elegant luxury hotel is located just a stone’s throw from the museum. Its rooftop offers stunning views of the city from above, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the surroundings. Book your stay now!
8. Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba
The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in Spain.
Built in the 8th century during the reign of the Umayyads, it was originally a major mosque in the Western Muslim world.
Its vast prayer hall is famous for its forest of red and white striped horseshoe arches, which create an impression of infinite depth and a unique atmosphere.
After the Reconquista in 1236, the monument was consecrated as a cathedral and underwent several modifications.
Where?
The Mosque-Cathedral is located in Córdoba, in the historic center.
ALSO READ: What to Do in Córdoba?
When?
The best time to visit the mosque is in spring or autumn, when the temperatures are milder. Summer can be scorching.
Where to Sleep?
Hostal Almanzor ($$): Located not far from the mosque, this charming guesthouse offers a simple yet typically Andalusian setting. Some rooms feature a balcony. Book your stay now!
9. La Giralda
An emblematic symbol of Seville, this former 12th-century Almohad minaret, transformed into a bell tower, overlooks the cathedral and offers a panoramic view of the city and the Guadalquivir River.
Its architecture is a remarkable testament to Andalusian cultural fusion, seamlessly blending Islamic and Gothic influences.
The base of the tower, inherited from the Moorish era, is distinguished by delicate geometric patterns, while the upper section, added in the 16th century, features Renaissance style.
Where?
The Giralda is located in the center of Seville.
ALSO READ: What to Do in Seville?
When?
The best time to visit the Giralda is in spring or autumn when the weather is more pleasant and the city isn’t overwhelming in heat. Early in the morning is also ideal, as the crowds are much smaller.
Where to Sleep?
nüa santa cruz ($$$): This charming hostel is located just 5 minutes from the Giralda. It offers beautifully decorated and exceptionally comfortable rooms. Book your stay now!
10. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
If you ask me about my favorite natural site in Spain, I would answer without hesitation: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
This gem captivates visitors with its dramatic setting and mystical atmosphere.
Perched on a rocky islet battered by the waves of the Atlantic, its hermitage is accessible via a stone bridge and a winding staircase with 241 steps. But rest assured, the effort is well worth it!
The site has gained popularity in recent years thanks to the Game of Thrones series, where it serves as the backdrop for Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen.
Where?
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe can be visited from Bilbao. It is located between the towns of Bakio and Bermeo.
ALSO READ: Visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
When?
From May to September, you’ll enjoy a pleasant hike, as it rarely gets extremely hot in the region. However, summer attracts many visitors, and access may be limited on certain days.
Where to Sleep?
LATROUPE La Granja ($): This accommodation offers affordable dormitory beds in Bilbao. The carefully designed common areas invite guests to spend time there and meet other travelers. Book your stay now!
11. La SEO
The Seo of Zaragoza, or the Cathedral of Salvador, is not widely known among tourists, yet it is a true architectural treasure that showcases the various artistic influences that have shaped the history of Aragon.
It stands out for its harmonious blend of Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, a result of the many transformations it has undergone over the centuries.
Built on the site of an ancient mosque, the Seo preserves beautiful Mudéjar elements, including its magnificent brick apse adorned with geometric patterns.
Where?
The Seo Cathedral is located in the historic center of Zaragoza.
ALSO READ: Places to See in Zaragoza
When?
The best time to visit is from April to June, and then from September to October, when the weather is milder but not as cold as in winter.
Where to Sleep?
Hotel Sauce ($$): Just a short walk from the cathedral and other key monuments, this hotel offers very bright rooms and exceptionally comfortable beds. Book your stay now!
12. Parque GÜell
A masterpiece by Gaudí and a must-see for any visitor to Barcelona, Park Güell blends modernist architecture with nature.
Designed in the early 20th century, this colorful park is famous for its beautiful mosaics, the iconic serpentine bench surrounding the main square, and its organic structures inspired by natural forms.
There are many more enchanting spaces hidden within the park, making it feel like something straight out of a fairy tale.
Where?
Park Güell is located in Barcelona, in the Gracia district.
When?
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit, as the tourist crowds in summer can be overwhelming. It’s advisable to visit in the morning for a more peaceful experience or in the late afternoon, when the light enhances the beauty of the place.
Where to Sleep?
Factory Hostels Barcelona ($): The perfect hostel for budget travelers who want to be close to the park. The curtains for each bed in the dorms ensure privacy for every guest. The accommodation also features a panoramic terrace and a library. Book your stay now!
13. Las Bardenas Reales
It may be the most unexpected place in Spain: a semi-arid desert in the north of the country. Surprising, right?
Carved by erosion over millennia, the site is a true labyrinth of canyons, rocky plateaus, and geological formations.
Designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, this natural park spans nearly 42,000 hectares, which can be explored in various ways: on foot, by bike, or by car.
This spectacular landscape has inspired many filmmakers and served as the backdrop for films and series, including Game of Thrones, where it represents the arid lands of Dorne.
Where?
Las Bardenas Reales are located in the southeast of Navarre.
When?
The best time to visit Las Bardenas is in spring or autumn. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter sometimes brings strong winds.
Where to Sleep?
Hotel Aire de Bardenas ($$$$): If you want to experience something truly unique, you must spend the night in the park. With an outdoor pool, the hotel offers bungalows with views of the Bardenas Reales desert. Some rooms also feature a private garden and/or a large outdoor bathtub. Book your stay now!
14. El Teide
Mount Teide, located on the island of Tenerife, is the highest peak in Spain, standing at 3,718 meters above sea level.
Its national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an open-air geological museum: petrified lava formations, spectacular craters, rocks shaped by successive eruptions, and unique fauna and flora.
The summit of the volcano can be reached by taking the cable car or by opting for a challenging hike along the park’s trails.
Where?
Mount Teide is located in the heart of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands.
ALSO READ: What to Do in Tenerife?
When?
The best time to visit Teide is from April to October, when the weather is milder. Winter can be cold and snowy at the summit. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Where to Sleep?
Oasis Hill Icod de los Vinos ($$): There is no hotel within the park, but you can stay in nearby villages. This accommodation offers comfortable rooms, and guests can enjoy a lovely garden with a view of Teide. Book your stay now!
15. Los Picos de Europa
This spectacular mountain range, located between Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León, is one of the most beautiful natural parks in Spain.
Famous for its deep gorges, towering peaks, and charming villages, the Picos de Europa offer incredible views to discover during unforgettable hikes.
Where?
The Picos de Europa straddle three autonomous communities (Asturias, Cantabria, León) in the north of Spain.
When?
The best time to visit the Picos de Europa is between May and October, when the trails are accessible and the weather is pleasant. Winter is more challenging for hiking due to snow and cold temperatures.
Where to Sleep?
Casa Cuevas ($$): A rustic and authentic hotel offering simple and comfortable rooms. A great option for couples or solo hikers. Book your stay now!
How to get around in Spain?
Flights to major cities in Europe and the Americas, among others, are frequent at the airports of Madrid and Barcelona.
Other major cities in Spain also host many international and domestic flights.
All the destinations mentioned in this article, The 15 Spain Sites to Visit, are also accessible by train or bus.
The Teide is the exception; you will, of course, need to take a flight to Tenerife.
Finally, if you enjoy driving, the Spanish roads are very well-maintained and will allow you to reach all the must-see sites.
Spain Sites to Visit: How to Travel responsibly?
Spain is a captivating destination, but like any highly touristic country, it faces environmental and social challenges.
Adopting responsible travel practices helps minimize your impact and promotes more sustainable tourism.
Here are some good practices to preserve Spain’s treasures and enjoy them for years to come:
- Prioritize public transport: Spain has a well-developed network of trains and buses. Avoid flying for internal trips to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Be mindful of water consumption: Water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource in Spain. Opt for shorter showers and avoid wasting drinking water.
- Limit air conditioning use: Although summers can be hot, air conditioning is energy-intensive. Choose eco-friendly alternatives like natural ventilation or fans.
- Avoid short-term rentals like Airbnb: These platforms drive up rental prices and push locals out of city centers. Prefer hotels, hostels, or locally managed accommodations.
- Reduce plastic consumption: Use a reusable water bottle, avoid single-use packaging, and decline plastic straws in restaurants.
- Choose local and seasonal products: Support responsible agriculture by consuming fresh, locally produced food.
- Recycle your waste: Many Spanish cities have selective waste sorting systems. Find out how to participate.
- Encourage local craftsmanship: Instead of buying mass-produced souvenirs, choose handmade creations and local markets to support the local economy.
By adopting these simple actions, you help preserve Spain and make your trip more environmentally friendly and respectful of its people.
I hope this Spain Sites to Visit will give you some inspiration to organize your trip.
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