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Spain
If you’re dreaming of a trip to Spain, you’re in for a treat. I’ve spent a ton of time wandering this vibrant country, soaking up its sun-drenched streets, savoring tapas, and getting lost in its rich history. Spain’s got it all—bustling cities, charming old towns, jaw-dropping architecture, and a culture that’s as warm as its Mediterranean climate. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just chasing that perfect Instagram shot, Spain’s cities deliver. Let me take you through my top picks for the best cities to visit, complete with practical tips and a sprinkle of my own adventures to help you plan smart and travel better.
Spain is a country that hits all the senses. From the colorful chaos of Barcelona’s markets to the soulful strum of flamenco in Seville, every city has its own vibe. I’ve narrowed it down to five must-visit cities that’ll give you a taste of Spain’s diversity: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Valencia. Each one’s got its own flavor, and I’ll link you to detailed guides so you can dig deeper into what makes them special. Plus, I’ve got you covered with practical stuff like costs, money-saving hacks, and what to expect when you’re wandering Spain’s streets.
Top Cities to Visit in Spain
- Barcelona: A vibrant coastal city blending Gaudí’s whimsical architecture, like La Sagrada Família, with lively markets and sandy beaches.
- Madrid: Spain’s bustling capital, packed with world-class museums like the Prado and vibrant nightlife in charming plazas.
- Seville: A romantic gem with a massive Gothic cathedral, the Alcázar palace, and fiery flamenco in historic streets.
- Granada: Home to the breathtaking Alhambra, this city offers Moorish charm and stunning views in the Albaicín district.
- Valencia: A sunny haven mixing futuristic architecture, like the City of Arts and Sciences, with golden beaches and paella perfection.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SPAIN
La Sagrada Família, Barcelona
Alhambra, Granada
Prado Museum, Madrid
Park Güell, Barcelona
Seville Cathedral & Giralda, Seville
Royal Palace, Madrid
Alcázar of Seville, Seville
City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia
Retiro Park, Madrid
TYPICAL COSTS WHEN TRAVELLING
Accommodation – Mid-range hotels in major cities like Barcelona or Madrid, offering comfort and amenities like private bathrooms and central locations, run about $80–120 USD per night for a double room. Hostels are cheaper, around $20–40 USD for a dorm bed, while budget Airbnb options start at $50–80 USD. For a luxurious stay, boutique hotels or upscale spots can hit $150–250 USD, especially in peak season (June–August). Booking early or visiting in spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) can save you a chunk.
Food – Spain’s food scene is a steal if you know where to look. A “menú del día” (daily lunch special) gets you a three-course meal with wine for $10–15 USD in most cities. Tapas are perfect for sharing—expect $3–8 USD per plate. In Valencia, I grabbed a killer paella for $12 USD. Coffee and a pastry for breakfast? About $3–5 USD. Fine dining, like in San Sebastián’s Michelin-starred spots, can run $50–150 USD per person, but you don’t need to splurge to eat well.
Transportation – Spain’s trains are a dream—high-speed AVE trains between Madrid and Barcelona cost $40–100 USD, depending on how early you book. Buses are cheaper, around $15–30 USD for similar routes. In cities, metro or bus tickets are $1.50–3 USD per ride, or grab a 10-ride pass for about $10–15 USD. Taxis or Uber in cities run $10–20 USD for short trips. Renting a car? Expect $25–50 USD per day, plus gas (about $6/gallon).
Activities – Many attractions are budget-friendly. Entry to the Alhambra in Granada is about $15 USD, while Barcelona’s Sagrada Família is around $20–25 USD (book online to skip lines). Museums like Madrid’s Prado cost $15 USD, but some offer free hours (check schedules!). Guided tours or flamenco shows range from $20–50 USD.
Suggested daily budget – 75–95 EUR / $80–100 USD per person. This assumes you’re staying in a mid-range hotel, eating a mix of tapas and self-cooked meals, using public transport, and hitting a few paid attractions. Want to splurge on a boutique hotel or fancy dinner? Bump it up to 110–170 EUR / $120–180 USD. Traveling on a shoestring? You can get by on 38–47 EUR / $40–50 USD by cooking, staying in hostels, and sticking to free sights.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
1
Grab the Menú del Día
This lunchtime deal is a lifesaver. For $10–15 USD, you get a starter, main, dessert, and often wine or a drink. I had an amazing one in Granada with gazpacho, grilled fish, and flan—felt like a king for pennies.
2
Use Public Transport or Walk
Cities like Madrid and Barcelona have killer metro systems, and 10-ride passes save you cash. Most old towns (like Seville’s Santa Cruz) are walkable, so you can skip taxis. I walked Valencia’s Turia Park end-to-end for free and loved it.
3
Get City Passes
Look into passes like the Barcelona Card or Madrid City Pass ($30–60 USD). They cover public transport, major sights (like Gaudí’s houses), and discounts on tours. I used one in Barcelona and saved about $20 USD on museums alone.
4
Hit Free Museum Hours
Many museums, like Madrid’s Prado or Reina Sofía, offer free entry on weekday evenings (usually 6–8 PM). Check schedules online to plan around these. I caught Picasso’s Guernica for free this way—total win.
My Must-Have Spain City Itineraries
Day-by-day routes to explore Spain’s most iconic and charming cities.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM SPAIN?
Spain’s got this magnetic energy that pulls you in. It’s a place where history and modernity crash together in the best way—think ancient Roman aqueducts in Segovia next to trendy tapas bars, or Bilbao’s futuristic Guggenheim surrounded by old Basque charm. The people are warm, the streets are alive, and there’s always a reason to celebrate, whether it’s a local festival or just a sunny afternoon.
Expect a mix of laid-back vibes and non-stop energy. In Barcelona, you’ll weave through crowded La Rambla one minute and find a quiet courtyard in the Gothic Quarter the next. Madrid’s got a big-city pulse but feels like a village in its tapas bars. Seville and Granada wrap you in their romantic, Moorish past, with orange-scented patios and flamenco beats. Valencia’s a bit more chill, blending beach life with futuristic architecture.
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Best Places to Visit in Granada (Includes Map)
If you’re thinking about visiting Granada, you’re in for a treat. I’ve been wandering these ancient streets for years, and let me tell you, this city is like a love letter to history, culture, and good vibes. From the jaw-dropping
The weather’s a big draw—summers are hot (think 80–95°F in July), but spring and fall are perfect (60–75°F). Winters are mild in the south (50–60°F in Seville), though northern spots like Bilbao can get rainy. Locals are friendly but don’t always speak English, so learning basic Spanish phrases (“hola,” “gracias,” “una cerveza, por favor”) goes a long way. I fumbled through ordering tapas in Granada with my broken Spanish, and the bartender ended up teaching me a few words over a cold Alhambra beer—those moments make Spain special.
Safety-wise, Spain’s generally safe, even for solo travelers. I’ve wandered cities alone at night without issue, but watch for pickpockets in crowded spots like Barcelona’s La Rambla or Madrid’s Puerta del Sol. Use a money belt and keep your phone secure. Public transport is reliable, and trains make hopping between cities a breeze. If you’re driving, roads are good, but parking in old towns can be a nightmare—stick to public transport where you can.
Spain’s culture is its heartbeat. You’ll feel it in the late-night dinners (restaurants often open at 8 PM), the siesta vibe in smaller cities, and the passion for life that spills into every plaza. Whether you’re sipping sangria, marveling at a Gaudí mosaic, or getting swept up in a festival, Spain makes you feel alive. So, grab our interactive maps for Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Valencia, and start planning your adventure. Explore cities, plan smart, travel better!
August 20, 2018
