29 Best Places to Visit in Spain
Spain is a country with a rich culture, and it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most visited places in Europe. The Spanish people are very welcoming and friendly. And their food is delicious too! Tourist attraction in Spain has increased largely in recent years.
If you are visiting Spain for the first time, it might be overwhelming without a proper plan. Knowing the top tourist destinations can be helpful here. The top 20 tourist places in Spain are listed below.
Currency Rate in Spain: The currency of Spain is the Euro. 1 euro is equal to INR 82.27 as of 27th March 2023.
*Currency rates will vary depending on the market exchange rates*
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Spain
Spain can be a perfect tourist destination, combining both urban and rural components. You get to explore the immense culture and heritage of the country by exploring its landmarks, museums and galleries. Here are some of the top attractions of Spain among tourists.
Top Historic Towns to Visit in Spain
Old Spanish towns give a peek into the past through their iconic architecture. The following are the most popular historic towns of Spain that should be on your bucket list:
1. Ronda, Andalusia
Ronda is known as one of Spain's most scenic cities, thanks to its highland landscape and stunning views over the Guadalquivir river valley below. Ronda is also home to some great museums, including El Convento del Cristo Rey (the Royal Monastery) which houses a collection of Roman busts and other artefacts from Roman times.
- Location: Andalusia
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
2. Cudillero, Asturias
Cudillero is a town on the mountainside that faces the sea. This town is famous for its colourful houses that are lined up around the bay and are covered by a backdrop of mountains. It is the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway filled with experiencing the city's culture and watching the fishermen's boat come back after the day.
- Location: Asturias
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
3. San Vincente de la Barquera, Cantabria
This old fisherman's town offers a stunning view of the sea and the mountains. It is a part of the Oyambre Natural Park and is covered with greenery while being surrounded by water on all sides. The town is surrounded by the Picos de Europa mountain at the back which looks like a massive guard. Moreover, the town has a stretch of several kilometres of beaches which includes Meron beach.
- Location: Cantabria
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
4. Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia
Castellfollit de la Roca is Catalonia's most photographed town. It is a small town which can be covered entirely on foot. The streets of this town are narrow and are usually square and dark, which resemble the mediaeval times. A part of the town has now become a centre of gathering for the people of the town with the presence of fun activities and swimming pools.
- Location: Girona, Catalonia
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
5. Cadaques, Catalonia
Cadaques is located on the Mediterranean coast. It is a gorgeous white town, which attracts photographers with its stunning visuals. There is only one narrow road to reach the town. It allows you to experience the charm of old times along with its unique architecture, which includes Cuban-inspired houses, back cobblestone alleys and stairs that go up and down.
- Location: Catalonia
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
6. Mogarraz, Castile and Léon
Mogarraz is a lesser-known town amid mountain ranges and natural parks. This town has beautifully preserved the architectural and traditional aspects of an old town while featuring an urban layout. It also has a touch of Arab and Jewish culture that is reflected through houses with timber walls and symbols carved in stone.
- Location: Castile and Léon
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
Best Gardens to Visit in Spain
Spain has some of the most breathtaking gardens to offer to the tourists. Some of the best gardens in Spain are listed below:
7. The Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, Andalusia
The Alhambra and Generalife Gardens is a breathtaking Moorish palace and an artistic highlight of Spain. This architectural grandeur offers a sight of detailed stone carvings, beautiful arches, and tile-lined ceilings and also exhibits delicate filigrees. It is a wonderful experience for those who take a keen interest in art and architecture.
Location: Granada, Andalusia
Timings: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fees: €14 (Alhambra and Generalife), €7 (Alcazaba and gardens)
8. Retiro Park, Madrid
The Retiro Park is located in the heart of Madrid and is spread across 350 acres of land. This gorgeous park houses several monuments, sculptures and fountains. It is a great place for people to spend some time with nature. People can also enjoy the peaceful surroundings or go paddle-boating on the man-made lake. The Retiro Park does not have specific operational hours and it depends on the months or seasons.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 6 AM to 12 AM during April to September; 6 AM to 10 PM during October to March
- Entry Fees: Free
9. Atocha Tropical Garden, Madrid
The Atocha Tropical Garden is one of the most interesting places to visit in Madrid. This 4000 square metre tropical garden is located under the arched skylight inside the Atocha Railway Station. There are more than 7000 plants that belong to more than 260 species found in the tropical garden. It also has a pond that consists of more than 22 species of turtles and fishes.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 5 AM to 1 PM
- Entry Fees: Free
10. Jardines de Aranjuez, Aranjuez
Jardines de Aranjuez which translates to Gardens of Aranjuez is a marvellous garden near the Tagus River. There are several things that people can explore inside this garden. Several trees are found inside which make the atmosphere pleasant and provide shade. It also includes other great attractions like walkways and fountains.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 9:30 AM to Sunset
- Entry Fees: Free
Best Museums to Visit in Spain
11. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
This architectural masterpiece has been so widely photographed but no picture has done justice yet. The architect used sheets of titanium and blocks of limestone to build this grand structure. On the inside, the gallery displays temporary exhibitions and modern art collections. Works by artists like Anselm Kiefer and Willem de Kooning are among the highlights of the museum.
- Location: Bilbao
- Timings: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fees: €13-€15 for adults, €6.5-€7.5 for students and senior citizens and free for children
12. The Prado and Paseo del Artes, Madrid
The Prado and Paseo del Artes is one of the world's top art museums and is known for its rich and exquisite collection. After its expansion in 2007, the museum doubled its exhibition space. Later in 2009, it added 12 new galleries to exhibit the work by Goya and a few other artists from the late 19th century.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Sunday and other Holidays)
- Entry Fees: €15
13. The Reina Sofia National Art Centre, Madrid
The Reina Sofia National Art Centre was established in 1990 and exhibited several Spanish and International art between the 19th century till today. The museum exhibits more than 18,000 collectives. This museum also serves as a centre for experiments and research and allows temporary exhibitions as well as various public activities.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM; 10 AM to 2:30 PM on Sundays
- Entry Fees: €10
14. The Dali Theatre Museum, Figueres
This museum is enriched with the work of the great Salvador Dalí. The artist’s aim behind opening the museum was to let people experience a theatrical dream. It consists of paintings, sketches and objects made by the artist. Visitors would need a minimum of 2 hours to explore the museum entirely.
- Location: Figueres, Girona
- Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM; 10 AM to 8 PM on Thursdays
- Entry Fees: €19
Best Monuments to Visit in Spain
15. The Great Mosque of Córdoba (La Mezquita), Andalusia
16. Plaza Mayor, Madrid
The Plaza Mayor has served as a monumental piece of architecture for Spain for ages. It has hosted several events of historical importance like the coronation of Kings, the burning of heretics and events for public entertainment like bullfights and chivalric tournaments. It is a major historical landmark that you must visit during your holiday in Spain.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: Free
17. Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa, Seville
The Plaza de España is a grand semicircular pavilion which is surrounded by colonnades. Overlooking the pool, the structure has beautiful titles that are decorated in the representation of each province in Spain. Both structures are connected by a bridge. There are arrangements for people to take a look around the grandeur in a boat across the pool.
- Location: Seville
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Entry Fees: Free
18. Alhambra, Granada
The Alhambra is a popular monument that represents the Islamic culture. The exterior and interior of the fortress has intricate detailing. It is spread across 26 acres of land and is surrounded by defensive walls. It is one of Spain’s most beautiful and prestigious tourist sites and receives thousands of tourists around the year.
- Location: Granada
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fees: €19.09 for adults, €12.73 for children
19. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
The Sagrada Familia was initially a regular church until it became a prime example of Catalan Modernism. In 2010 it was declared as a basilica by Pope Benedict XVI. The site has 4 major sections which are the basilica, the museum, the tower and the school building. However, after the Covid 19 pandemic, the Basilica is the only part that is open for tourists to visit.
- Location: Barcelona
- Timings: 9 AM to 8 PM; 10:30 AM to 8 PM on Sundays
- Entry Fees: €26 and €27
Best Amusement Parks to Visit in Spain
20. Warner Park of San Martín de la Vega, Madrid
Popularly known as Parque Madrid, this amusement park is a great option for a day out with children. It has more than 30 thrilling rides and attractions. It also includes performances by various Warner characters like Batman, Tom and Jerry, Bugs Bunny, etc.
- Location: Madrid
- Timings: 12 PM to 12 AM (varies from day to day)
- Entry Fees: €44.75
21. Port Aventura, The Costa Dorada
Port Aventura is the largest and most popular amusement park in Spain. It receives plenty of tourists throughout the year due to the variety of attractions it has to offer. The place is very well decorated and well-maintained and conducts shows from every part of the world. It is a great place to go with family or friends
- Location: Av. Pere Molas, Tarragona
- Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fees: €48.19
22. Siam Park, Tenerife
Siam Park is a Thai themed amusement park which is the most visited adventure park in the Canary Islands. It has enthralling rides and great scenery to offer to the tourists. This park has something to offer for every age group starting from adventure rides for kids to extreme thrill rides for adults. This place is a must visit while travelling to Spain.
- Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fees: €39.93
23. Tibidabo Amusement Park, Barcelona
The Tibidabo Amusement Park is one of Spain’s oldest amusement parks. There are more than 25 attractions in the park for both children and adults to enjoy. Tourists also visit this amusement park because of the breathtaking views that it offers.
- Location: Barcelona
- Timings: 10 AM to 7:30 PM
- Entry Fees: €10.41
24. Isla Mágica, Seville
Isla Mágica is a wonderful amusement park and a must visit while in Spain. This park was the world’s first urban theme park. It has six Spanish colonial themed zones and several enthralling rides which are fun for both children and adults. In addition, it also has a water park named Aqua Magica.
- Location: Seville
- Timings: 11 AM to 10 PM (operational hours differ from day to day)
- Entry Fees: €50.77
Best Islands to Visit in Spain
Spain offers several islands that are great for holidays and adventure sports. They also have amazing nightlife for those looking for a grand party. Some of the best islands in Spain have been listed below:
25. Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Ibiza is one of the most popular islands in Spain and is known for its happening nightlife. After 7 PM, this island turns into the hub of parties, music and lights. While in the morning it is a completely different place where you can enjoy quality time in peace. There are several restaurants to try out Spanish cuisines and take a walk around the town exploring the markets.
- Location: Balearic Islands
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: Free
26. Majorca, Balearic Islands
It is one of the largest islands in Spain. It has a stunning beach with breathtaking scenery. There are several resorts and it offers several activities like cycling along the beach and golf. The ideal time to visit this island is during its annual Jazz Festival.
- Location: Balearic Islands
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
27. Menorca, Balearic Islands
Menorca, also known as the Historical Island, is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a calm and secluded island. This island is less developed in comparison to the other Spanish islands but offers breathtaking scenery and has several historical monuments to explore.
- Location: Balearic Islands
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
28. Formentera, Balearic Islands
This is an ideal location for family trips and getaways. It has a gorgeous white beach where people enjoy sunbathing and taking lazy strolls along the long and sandy shoreline. Moreover, this island offers very soothing scenery and visuals. You can also reach this beautiful island on a boat from Ibiza.
- Location: Balearic Islands
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
29. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is the largest among the Canary islands and is considered to be the best island for a holiday. This island is a mixture of peaceful sightseeing, adventurous activities and happening parties. It has some excellent diving spots and there are activities like jet-skiing, parascending, windsurfing, etc. Besides, it offers outstanding nightlife.
- Location: Canary Islands
- Timings: 24 hours
- Entry Fees: N/A
FAQs About Tourist Places in Spain
Do you need a Visa to travel in Spain?
Yes, it is necessary for foreigners to have a Visa while travelling in and around Spain. However, Canadian and American citizens can enjoy a stay up to 90 days without a Visa.
Is there anything I can do on a budget in Spain?
You can visit museums for free in Spain if you're on a budget. There are some museum days in Spain where you can gain free admission for a limited period. Every Monday to Saturday, between 6 pm and 8 pm, the Museo del Prado in Madrid offers 2 hours of free access.
When it comes to getting around Spain on a budget, what is the best way to do it?
Alta Velocidad (AVE) trains run between most major cities in Spain, so they are the best way to travel long distances. It takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to travel from Barcelona to Madrid, while it takes about the same time to travel from Madrid to Seville.
Is Spain a friendly nation?
Spain is a great place for ex-pats to make friends since Spaniards are a friendly bunch. You will be able to socialize with locals much more easily if you learn the local lingo.
What clothes should you bring to Spain?
In winter, Spain can be chilly, so be sure to bring plenty of warm weather gear. Bring a lot of sunscreen for your hands if you're planning to come in the summer.
What time of the year is best for visiting Spain?
The ideal times to visit Spain usually fall between March and May and September and November. However, it's also a good idea to find out when there are low prices and when there are fewer crowds.
Is Spain a safe place to visit?
Few countries in Europe are as safe to visit as Spain. Serious crimes are few and far between. During a visit to Spain, visitors should be aware that pickpockets operate in the metros of the big cities and tourist-filled places. If you are the only person on a street at night, do not walk there.
What is the safety of drinking tap water in Spain?
Every day, all cities in Spain test their drinking water for safety, as the water must meet strict government standards.
How many days do you need to explore Spain?
Spain itineraries should be at least seven days in length so that you can visit two places in one day.
What is the currency of Spain? Do they accept credit cards?
The currency of Spain is Euros. Yes, major credit cards are accepted in most places in Spain, however, it is safe to have some cash handy at all times while visiting a foreign country.
Should I visit Spain if I do not know Spanish at all?
Not knowing Spanish is not an issue while planning a trip to Spain. Although the locals speak less to no English, it would not be a problem as you can easily find an English speaking guide to assist your trip. However, you can always learn a few phrases in Spanish that might come to your help.