Spain is one of Europe’s most diverse and exciting travel destinations. From sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches and Moorish palaces to modern architecture and world-famous cuisine, the country offers something for every type of traveller. If you are planning a trip and researching the Best Things to Do in Spain, you will quickly realise that each region feels like a destination of its own.
The beauty of the Best Things to Do in Spain lies in its contrasts. You can wander through Gothic quarters in the morning, relax on a golden beach in the afternoon, and enjoy tapas in a lively plaza at night. Spain’s history, shaped by Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences, creates architectural masterpieces and cultural traditions that continue to define the country.
This detailed guide covers the Top 18 Best Things to Do in Spain, organised into clear sections to help you plan a rich and memorable journey.
Historic Cities and Architectural Best Things to Do in Spain
Spain’s cities are filled with monuments, palaces, and plazas that reflect centuries of history. Exploring these landmarks defines many of the Best Things to Do in Spain.
1. Explore Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and central to the Best Things to Do in Spain. The city is famous for its blend of Gothic architecture and modernist design.
The highlight is Sagrada FamÃlia, the unfinished masterpiece by architect Antoni GaudÃ. Walking along La Rambla and exploring the Gothic Quarter adds historic depth to your visit.
Barcelona’s seaside location, art scene, and culinary culture make it one of the essential Best Things to Do in Spain.
2. Visit Madrid
Madrid, the capital, combines royal heritage with modern energy. Visiting landmarks such as Royal Palace of Madrid and Prado Museum is central to the cultural Best Things to Do in Spain.
The Prado houses masterpieces by Spanish artists including Velázquez and Goya. Evenings in Madrid are lively, with plazas filled with locals enjoying tapas and conversation.
3. Discover Seville
Seville represents the heart of Andalusian culture. Exploring this city is one of the atmospheric Best Things to Do in Spain.
The Alcázar of Seville and Seville Cathedral showcase intricate Moorish and Gothic architecture. Flamenco performances in traditional venues add emotional intensity to your experience.
4. Visit Granada
Granada is home to one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, the Alhambra. Visiting this palace complex is one of the most unforgettable Best Things to Do in Spain.
The Alhambra’s detailed Islamic architecture, gardens, and mountain views create a magical setting.
5. Explore Valencia
Valencia blends historic charm with futuristic architecture. Visiting the City of Arts and Sciences is one of the modern Best Things to Do in Spain.
The city is also the birthplace of paella, making it a culinary highlight.
Coastal and Island Best Things to Do in Spain
Spain’s coastline stretches for thousands of kilometres, offering golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and island escapes. From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, seaside travel defines many of the Best Things to Do in Spain. Whether you are seeking relaxation, nightlife, surfing, or fine dining by the sea, Spain’s coastal destinations deliver exceptional variety.
6. Relax in the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s most famous beach regions and a highlight among the Best Things to Do in Spain. Located in Andalusia along the Mediterranean coast, it is known for warm weather, long sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns.
Destinations such as Marbella and Málaga combine beach relaxation with culture and nightlife. Visitors can spend the day sunbathing or swimming before exploring historic centres and waterfront promenades in the evening.
With its reliable sunshine and accessible resorts, relaxing along the Costa del Sol remains one of the classic Best Things to Do in Spain for travellers seeking comfort and coastal beauty.
7. Visit the Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands are among the most sought-after Mediterranean escapes and central to the island-based Best Things to Do in Spain. This archipelago includes Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, each offering a different atmosphere.
Mallorca combines mountain scenery with turquoise coves, while Ibiza is known for vibrant nightlife and beach clubs. Menorca offers quieter beaches and natural landscapes ideal for relaxation.
Clear water, scenic coastal drives, and lively summer energy make the Balearic Islands one of the most diverse and memorable Best Things to Do in Spain.
8. Explore the Canary Islands
Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands provide a completely different coastal experience. Visiting these volcanic islands adds dramatic scenery to the Best Things to Do in Spain.
Islands such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria feature black-sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and national parks shaped by lava flows. Year-round mild temperatures make them attractive even in winter months.
For travellers seeking a combination of beach relaxation and striking volcanic landscapes, exploring the Canary Islands stands out among the most unique Best Things to Do in Spain.
9. Discover San Sebastián
San Sebastián, located in Spain’s Basque Country, is renowned for its elegant beaches and exceptional cuisine. Discovering this city is one of the refined coastal Best Things to Do in Spain.
La Concha Beach curves gracefully along the bay, offering calm waters and scenic views. The city is also famous for its pintxos, small tapas-style dishes served in local bars.
Combining seaside charm with culinary excellence, San Sebastián delivers one of the most sophisticated and rewarding Best Things to Do in Spain along the northern coast.
Cultural and Scenic Best Things to Do in Spain
Spain’s identity is shaped by centuries of pilgrimage, artistic achievement, dramatic landscapes, and culinary excellence. Beyond beaches and major cities, these destinations add cultural depth and scenic beauty to the Best Things to Do in Spain. From medieval hilltop towns to vineyard-covered valleys and architectural icons, these experiences reveal the country’s diverse character.
10. Walk the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago is one of Europe’s most famous pilgrimage routes and a spiritual highlight among the Best Things to Do in Spain. For centuries, pilgrims have walked across northern Spain toward the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Today, travellers from around the world take part in this journey for personal reflection, physical challenge, or cultural interest. The route passes through small villages, countryside landscapes, and historic towns, offering a slower and more meaningful way to experience Spain.
Completing even a short section of the Camino provides insight into tradition, community, and endurance, making it one of the most transformative Best Things to Do in Spain.
11. Visit Toledo
Toledo is often described as a living museum. Visiting this hilltop city is one of the historic Best Things to Do in Spain.
Surrounded by ancient walls and overlooking the Tagus River, Toledo features narrow medieval streets and architectural influences from Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities. The Toledo Cathedral stands as one of Spain’s finest Gothic landmarks.
Exploring Toledo offers a glimpse into Spain’s layered past, making it one of the culturally rich Best Things to Do in Spain.
12. Explore Ronda
Ronda’s dramatic setting makes it one of the most scenic Best Things to Do in Spain. The town is perched on a deep gorge carved by the GuadalevÃn River, connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge.
Walking across the bridge and looking down into the gorge provides breathtaking views. Ronda also features one of Spain’s oldest bullrings and charming whitewashed streets.
The combination of natural beauty and historic architecture secures Ronda’s place among the visually striking Best Things to Do in Spain.
13. Discover La Rioja
La Rioja is Spain’s most celebrated wine region and a highlight among the flavourful Best Things to Do in Spain. Rolling vineyards stretch across gentle hills, creating a scenic countryside ideal for wine tours.
Visitors can explore traditional bodegas as well as architecturally bold modern wineries. Wine tastings introduce travellers to Rioja’s renowned reds and emerging white varieties.
Pairing local wines with regional cuisine enhances the experience, making La Rioja one of the most rewarding gastronomic Best Things to Do in Spain.
14. Visit Bilbao
Bilbao has transformed into a modern cultural hub. Visiting this Basque city is one of the creative Best Things to Do in Spain.
The city’s centrepiece is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a titanium-clad architectural landmark designed by Frank Gehry. Inside, contemporary art exhibitions complement the bold exterior design.
Bilbao’s riverside setting and innovative spirit make it one of the most forward-looking Best Things to Do in Spain.
15. Explore Salamanca
Salamanca is known for its sandstone buildings that glow golden in the evening light. Exploring this university city is one of the elegant Best Things to Do in Spain.
The Plaza Mayor is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful squares, while the University of Salamanca is among the oldest in Europe. The twin cathedrals add architectural grandeur to the skyline.
Walking through Salamanca at sunset reveals why it remains one of the most visually captivating and culturally refined Best Things to Do in Spain.
16. Experience Flamenco in Seville
Attending a flamenco performance is one of the most passionate Best Things to Do in Spain. While flamenco can be found throughout the country, Seville is widely regarded as its spiritual home.
In intimate tablaos across the city, dancers, singers, and guitarists perform with intense emotion and precision. The rhythmic footwork, expressive hand movements, and powerful vocals create an atmosphere that feels raw and authentic. Unlike large stage productions, smaller venues allow you to feel the energy up close.
Experiencing flamenco in Seville offers insight into Andalusian culture and remains one of the most emotionally powerful Best Things to Do in Spain.
17. Visit Córdoba
Córdoba is home to one of Spain’s most remarkable architectural landmarks, the Mezquita-Catedral. Visiting this monument is one of the defining Best Things to Do in Spain.
Originally built as a mosque during Islamic rule and later converted into a cathedral, the structure blends two religious traditions within a single space. Its forest of red-and-white arches creates a visually striking interior unlike any other in Europe.
Beyond the Mezquita-Catedral, Córdoba’s historic Jewish Quarter and flower-filled patios add charm. Exploring this city provides cultural depth and secures its place among the architectural Best Things to Do in Spain.
18. Explore Zaragoza
Zaragoza offers a mix of religious heritage and riverside scenery. Exploring this city adds diversity to the Best Things to Do in Spain.
The impressive Basilica del Pilar stands along the banks of the Ebro River and is one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites. Its domes and towers create a striking skyline.
Walking along the riverside promenades and exploring the historic centre reveal Roman ruins and Moorish influences. Zaragoza’s blend of history and scenic views makes it one of the culturally rich and varied Best Things to Do in Spain.
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Conclusion:
Spain offers remarkable diversity across its regions. The Top 18 Best Things to Do in Spain combine historic cities, architectural masterpieces, Mediterranean beaches, island escapes, scenic wine regions, and cultural traditions such as flamenco and pilgrimage routes.
Whether you are admiring Gaud۪̉s architecture in Barcelona, exploring Moorish palaces in Granada, relaxing on the beaches of the Balearic Islands, or tasting Rioja wines, the Best Things to Do in Spain create a journey filled with colour, flavour, and history. Spain is not just a destination to visit. It is a country to experience through its culture, cuisine, landscapes, and lively atmosphere.
