Secrets Of Spain: Why It Should Be Your Next Holiday?
Are you dreaming of a holiday packed with sunshine, culture and adventure? Then Spain is the place to be! This vibrant country has something for everyone, from stunning beaches and delicious cuisine to fascinating history and buzzing nightlife.
With its unique mix of cultures, exquisite architecture and diverse landscapes, it’s no wonder that Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Europe.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed family getaway or a romantic break away from it all – here are just some reasons why Spain makes such a great holiday destination.
The Climate
Spain enjoys a warm, Mediterranean climate throughout the year – making it perfect for beach holidays or enjoying outdoor activities all year round. The average temperature in summer is 30°C during the day and in winter 15°C. In fact, some parts of Spain (most notably on the Canary Islands) enjoy temperatures above 20°C year-round!
The Cuisine
When it comes to food, Spain is a culinary paradise. From traditional tapas bars serving up delicious local dishes to gourmet restaurants creating exquisite menus, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The country also boasts some of the best wines in Europe, so be sure to sample some of the local varieties.
The Culture
Spain is a true melting pot of cultures and this can be seen in its vibrant cities, spectacular festivals, and diverse architecture. With so much to explore, you’ll never be bored – and there’s always something new to discover!
The Nightlife
From lively bars and pubs to glamorous nightclubs and discos, Spain’s nightlife is second to none! Whether you’re looking for an evening of fun or a romantic evening out – there’s something for everyone.
The Scenery
From rugged coastlines and gorgeous beaches to snow-capped mountains and vibrant cities, Spain is full of stunning scenery. It’s a great destination for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling or sailing – so why not explore everything it has to offer?
These are just some of the reasons why Spain makes such an amazing holiday destination.
Best Time To Visit Spain
The best time to visit Spain as a tourist is between the months of April and October. During this period, temperatures remain relatively mild and comfortable for all kinds of activities.
The spring (April-May) brings days filled with sunshine and temperatures that range from 16°C-23°C (60°F-73°F).
This season is ideal for sightseeing, exploring the countryside, or visiting attractions such as historic monuments or natural parks.
Summer (June-August) is the warmest season and temperatures can rise up to 30°C (86 °F) in some areas. While many locals flock to the coast during these months, you can also find cooler places inland like Madrid or Barcelona where days tend to be a bit more pleasant.
Autumn (September-October) sees a gradual decrease in temperature throughout this period until it reaches its coldest at around 13°C (55 °F). The end of September and early October are particularly great times to visit Spain as they still offer sunny days but the beaches become less crowded making it easier to find accommodation at reasonable prices.
This season is great for city trips, outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling, or simply walking through historical cities with lower humidity levels than during summertime.
Whichever time of year you choose to visit Spain, there are plenty of things to do and experience! From vibrant cities full of culture and architecture to stunning landscapes characterized by rolling hillsides and golden beaches – you’ll never be short on things see or do!
There are countless festivals celebrating everything from gastronomy to music taking place throughout the years – so don’t forget to check out what’s happening before you make your travel plans!
Best Places to Visit in Spain:
1. Madrid – the capital of Spain, boasting a buzzing nightlife, top-notch museums and galleries, and a lively atmosphere.
2. Barcelona – the cosmopolitan city with its unique architecture by Gaudi, stunning beaches like Barceloneta, and delicious Catalan cuisine.
3. Seville – one of the most iconic cities in southern Spain that is full of vibrant culture with flamenco bars and beautiful Moorish-style buildings such as La Giralda tower
4. Granada – an Andalusian city known for its Alhambra palace which offers incredible views over the Sierra Nevada mountains; also home to great tapas bars for traditional Spanish food
5. Valencia – renowned for its City of Arts & Sciences complex including an aquarium, IMAX theatre and more; it’s also famous for paella!
6. Bilbao – situated on northern Basque coast surrounded by lush countryside; this modern metropolis is known for contemporary art museums such as The Guggenheim Museum
7. San Sebastian – consists mostly of picturesque beaches backed by rolling hillsides along with some fantastic restaurants serving world-renowned authentic Basque dishes
8 Córdoba– the ancient city with a rich history full of architectural masterpieces like the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral and Alcazar Castle
9. Ibiza – the Mediterranean island known for its wild nightlife; filled with beautiful beaches, stunning vistas, and plenty of great places to eat, drink and party
10. Mallorca – an island paradise featuring picturesque villages dotted along dramatic coastlines as well as some great nightlife in cities such as Palma
Top Tourist Attractions in Spain – DO NOT MISS THESE if in Spain:
Palaces:
1. The Royal Palace of Madrid – Located in the heart of Madrid, this is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe and served as a residence for Spanish monarchs from Charles III to Alfonso XIII. It has been open to the public since 1924 and features stunning decorations, classic furniture, and artworks by renowned painters such as Goya.
2. Palacio Real de Aranjuez– Built during Philip II’s reign (1598-1621), it was used as an occasional residence by various kings until 1981 when it became a museum dedicated to its former residents’ lifestyle and history. It contains a variety of formal gardens, sculptures, fountains, ponds and more!
3. Reales Alcazares de Sevilla– This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in Seville’s historic center and dates back to the Moorish period with some parts dating all the way back to 712 AD! Today it serves mostly as a museum showcasing centuries old interiors crafted with intricate tile work designs throughout the palace walls & ceilings..
4. Alhambra – Located atop Granada’s Nasrid hilltop; this beautiful palace once served as home for successive Islamic rulers who shaped its stunning interiors with colorful tiles, detailed arches and towers. Today it is a popular tourist attraction in Spain!
Beaches:
1. Playa de las Catedrales – located on the northwest coast of Galicia and is considered one of the best beaches in Europe due to its unique rock formations which resemble Gothic cathedral-like structures.
2. Cala Macarella – situated in Menorca this beach boasts white sand and crystal clear waters with picturesque views of nearby islands making it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing!
3. Las Salinas Beach– One of Ibiza’s most famous spots; this beach features stunning white sands, azure waters and plenty of beach bars & clubs for those looking to party!
4. Sant Sebastia Beach– Located in the beautiful Basque Country, this beach is a great spot for surfing or simply enjoying its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque views of Donostia’s La Concha Bay.
5. Playa de la Concha – This stunning urban beach located in San Sebastian features fine golden sand and tranquil waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing & more; it’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain!
Monuments and Cathedrals:
1. Sagrada Familia – Located in Barcelona, this Roman Catholic basilica is an iconic landmark designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi and features intricate details throughout its exterior walls & ceilings.
2. Seville Cathedral – This Gothic-style cathedral was built during the 15th century and is located in the heart of Seville; it’s known for its impressive tower, golden altar & other features such as a crypt which houses Christopher Columbus’ tomb!
3. Valencia Cathedral – Constructed between 1262 & 1482; this structure combines Gothic and Romanesque styles with some Baroque elements added later on; it has three naves with a bell tower that stands at over 115 meters tall!
4. Toledo Cathedral – Built during the 13th century; this cathedral is one of Spain’s largest religious buildings and contains some stunning examples of Gothic architecture including stained glass windows, ornate frescoes & more!
5. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral– Located in the city which serves as capital of Galicia region ;this spectacular example of Spanish Baroque architecture dates back to 1075 AD when construction first began although most parts were added much later on (1738). It features an impressive façade & other elements such as a bell tower, ornate doorways & more!
6. Burgos Cathedral – This Gothic-style cathedral was built in 1221 and is considered one of the finest examples of this style in Europe; it is renowned for its intricate carvings, stained glass windows & beautiful sculptures. The interior also contains spectacular tombs belonging to many famous people including El Cid!
7. Mezquita de Cordoba – Originally built as a Mosque during the 10th century ;this stunning building combines both Islamic and Christian styles and features an incredible “forest” of over 850 double arches throughout its interior walls & ceilings! It’s currently used as a Catholic Church.
8. Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar – Located in Zaragoza, this Baroque-style basilica was built during the 17th century and features incredible frescoes, ornate sculptures and a spectacular dome which stands over 140 meters tall! It also houses an impressive art collection with works from famous painters such as Goya & Velasquez.
9. Monasterio de las Huelgas – This Gothic-style monastery located in Burgos; features a stunning cloister & other elements like an impressive library which holds thousands of ancient manuscripts! The monastery is also known for its elaborate stone carvings on the exterior walls & ceilings.
10. Alcazar of Segovia – This ancient fortress is located in Segovia and features spectacular architecture combining Romanesque, Gothic & Moorish styles; it’s also known for its stunning views over the city & surrounding countryside. Inside you can find numerous courtyards, palaces & other historical elements.
11. Palacio Real – Located in Madrid; this palace was built during the 18th century and serves as an official residence to the Spanish Royal family; inside you can find some of Europe’s finest furniture, paintings & sculptures. Additionally, the palace also contains a beautiful garden which includes fountains & ponds!
12. Alhambra – Located in Granada; this ancient Moorish citadel complex was built during the 13th century and features some of the most stunning examples of Islamic architecture in Europe; it’s renowned for its intricate stucco-work, ornate tile-work & beautiful gardens. Additionally, Alhambra is also home to an impressive collection of artworks from various civilizations!
13. Aqueduct of Segovia – This ancient engineering feat was constructed during the 1st century AD and stands over 20 meters tall; it has become one of Spain’s most recognized landmarks due to its incredible stone arches which span nearly 800 meters! It served as a crucial source of water for the city until the mid 19th century.
14. Roman Wall – Located in Lugo; this wall was built by the Romans during the 2nd century BC and encircles the entire city making it one of the only complete Roman walls still standing in Europe! It was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
15. Sagrada Familia – Located in Barcelona; this iconic basilica began construction back in 1882 and is considered one of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces. Its unique style combines Gothic & Art Nouveau elements to create a spectacular structure; with its intricate carvings, stunning stained glass windows & more! It’s estimated that construction will be completed by 2026.
The beauty of Spain cannot be overstated as these incredible churches, cathedrals, monuments & other structures testify to its rich history & culture. Visitors will be truly captivated by the stunning architecture, artwork and stories that each of these places hold!
Museums:
1. Prado Museum – Located in Madrid, the Prado is one of the world’s greatest art museums and holds an impressive collection of works from renowned Spanish painters such as Velázquez and Goya. It also features a wide range of Italian Renaissance and Flemish Baroque artworks, as well as many other pieces from various parts of Europe.
2. Reina Sofia Museum- Also located in Madrid, this museum was designed by famous architect Jean Nouvel to house a comprehensive collection of modern artworks including pieces by Picasso, Miró, Dalí and more! Its top floor has been dedicated to Pablo Picasso’s iconic work “Guernica”.
3. National Archaeological Museum – Housed inside an old palace in Madrid; this museum contains over 11 million artifacts dating back thousands years! It showcases ancient sculptures & monuments and is home to some incredible archaeological finds including ones which were discovered at Atapuerca in Burgos province.
4. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum – This private museum housed inside a former palace; displays one of the largest collections of European paintings ranging from 13th century masters like Giotto & Caravaggio all the way up to modern day painters like Edward Hopper & Jackson Pollock. It’s a must-see for any art lover!
1. PortAventura World – Located in Salou, this massive theme park is split into five themed areas based on various cultures and civilizations; visitors can experience a variety of attractions including roller coasters, water parks & shows!
2. Terra Mítica – Located in Benidorm, this popular theme park has over 30 different attractions that range from mild family rides to extreme thrill-seeking ones! It also features live entertainment throughout the day such as music concerts & dance performances.
3. Isla Mágica – Situated in Seville, this amusement park encompasses more than 40 hectares and offers a wide variety of activities for all ages; from thrilling rollercoasters to interactive dark rides and even an entire section dedicated to children’s play zones!
4. Parque de Atracciones de Madrid – Located in Madrid; this modernized amusement park contains over 20 attractions offering something for everyone whether it be young or old; ranging from classic carnival games & kiddie rides all the way up to giant mechanical beasts & other high speed thrills!
5. Warner Bros Movie World– Situated within Madrid’s city limits; movie buffs will be delighted by their selection of Hollywood inspired attractions; from interactive experiences based on famous films to rides that take you through the movie sets themselves!
Cultural Events:
1. Semana Santa (Holy Week) – March or April: Celebrations in many cities to mark the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which includes parades with large religious floats, processions and more.
2. Fiesta de San Isidro – May: This festival is held in honour of Madrid’s patron saint, St Isadore and usually occurs over a two-week period from mid-May onwards. Events include concerts, bullfights, street theatre performances and traditional dancing.
3. Feria de Abril – April: Seville’s famous fair lasts for seven days each year where attendees can enjoy flamenco shows, horse riding competitions & plenty of food & drink! It’s one of Spain’s most important cultural events as it celebrates Andalusian culture & traditions with locals wearing traditional outfits during this time too!
4. La Tomatina Festival – August : Held annually on the last Wednesday in August; visitors will find themselves engulfed in a tomato fight that takes place in Bunol near Valencia; making it one of the most fun festivals you’ll ever attend!
5. Las Fallas – March : The city of Valencia comes alive for five days every year as thousands of papier-mâché sculptures are set alight in a spectacle of fire, flames and fireworks. It’s an amazing event to be part of and one you’ll never forget!
Best Local Foods and Delicacies:
1. Paella – The national dish of Spain, paella is a rice-based dish usually prepared with seafood, or sometimes chicken and chorizo. It’s one of the most popular dishes in Spain and can be found in many restaurants throughout the country!
2. Gazpacho – A cold tomato-based soup that is1. Jamón – A cured ham that is a staple of Spanish cuisine, jamón can be found in almost any restaurant and can be served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal.
2. Patatas Bravas – Fried potatoes smothered in a spicy tomato sauce; this dish is often found on tapas menus around the country and makes for an excellent snack or side dish!
3. Gazpacho – This chilled soup originated from Andalusia and is made from tomatoes, peppers, garlic & olive oil which are all blended together to create the perfect summer starter!
4. Paella– Probably Spain’s most well-known dish; paella consists of rice cooked with various seafood ingredients such as prawns, mussels & squid as well as vegetables like onions & peppers to give it lots of flavour!
5. Churros con Chocolate – A classic street food dessert consisting of deep fried strips of dough that are usually topped with sugar then dunked into thick hot chocolate; these sweet treats will satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth cravings!
Best Places To Shop:
1. Madrid – The best place to shop in Spain is undoubtedly Madrid, where you’ll find a variety of malls and fashion stores to choose from along with high-end designer outlets. You can buy everything from Spanish ceramic tiles, leather goods and traditional clothing to modern electronics.
2. Barcelona – This vibrant city is home to some of Spain’s most fashionable shops and boutiques as well as marketplaces for unique gifts or souvenirs. Be sure to check out the famous La Boqueria food market before you leave!
3. Valencia – Head over to Valencia for some great shopping opportunities including the City of Arts & Sciences shopping mall which has something for everyone; whether it’s trendy fashion items or antique pieces!
4. Seville – This beautiful city offers visitors a range of options when it comes to shopping; head over here if you’re looking for souvenirs such as handcrafted pottery, flamenco dresses or handmade jewelry!
5. Granada – Known for its amazing Moorish architecture, Granada also provides shoppers with plenty of choices like locally produced food products; carpets & rugs made by local artisans; antiques & much more!
Vibrant Nightlife:
1. Madrid – Known for its lively bars, clubs and pubs where you can find all kinds of music from flamenco to salsa and techno. There’s even a dedicated clubbing area called Malasaña if you’re looking for something more modern!
2. Barcelona – From jazz concerts in El Born quarter to hip-hop clubs in Raval district; this city offers something for everyone when it comes to nightlife with lots of live music venues, rooftop terraces & plenty of open-air events too!
3. Granada – This city is known for its vibrant tapas bars as well as some great nightclubs offering traditional Spanish folk music & flamenco performances. Be sure to grab a sangria or two while enjoying the atmosphere in these places!
4. Valencia – A buzzing student town that has plenty going on at night; especially around Plaza de Manises where there are loads of cool pubs & bars serving up tasty cocktails until the early hours of the morning!
5. Seville – Enjoy your evening here by taking part in Sevillanas dance classes before heading out into one of the many outdoor venues such as Calle Betis which hosts regular late night parties until sunrise!
Peace and Tranquility:
1. Toledo – Located in the heart of Spain and surrounded by lush countryside, Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The city has many parks to explore such as Parque Oso or El Greco Park which offer wonderful views of the Alcázar fortress, Cathedral and River Tajo making it perfect for relaxation!
2. Granada – With its stunning Moorish palaces & breathtaking mountains, Granada offers visitors peace & tranquility away from the hustle & bustle of everyday life. Explore the narrow cobbled streets of Albayzín or take a stroll around Generalife Gardens – both are places where you can truly relax!
3. Valencia – This vibrant city boasts plenty of natural beauty with its beaches, riverside promenades and lush gardens; all providing an ideal setting for calming activities like yoga or meditation. Make sure to visit Senda del Turia park during your stay here too!
4. Seville – Home to one of Europe’s most beautiful cities; Seville is also known for being incredibly peaceful with plenty of outdoor spaces such as Jardines de Murillo which offer tranquil surroundings away from busy roads!
5. Santander – Located in the Cantabria region and overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Santander is a great destination if you’re looking for some peace & quiet. There are numerous beaches to explore as well as various quaint villages such as Comillas which offer stunning views of the coast!
Language Spoken & Communication Barriers:
Spain is an incredibly diverse country, with numerous languages spoken throughout its various regions. Most notably, Spanish (or Castilian) is the official language of the country, and it is spoken by people from all walks of life. It is also the second most widely spoken language in the world after English!
In some areas such as Catalonia and the Basque Country, other languages are spoken such as Catalan and Basque respectively. These can present communication barriers for those who do not speak these languages; however, most people in Spain will be able to communicate in some form of English or Spanish. It is always best to brush up on your language skills prior to visiting any country!
Commonly Used Phrases & Their Translation:
1. Hola (Hello)
2. Adios (Goodbye)
3. Por favor (Please)
4. Gracias (Thank you)
5. Cuánto cuesta?/¿Cuál es el precio?(How much does it cost?)
6. ¡Buen provecho! (Bon Appetit!)
7. Dónde está…?(Where is…? )
8. Lo siento, no entiendo.(I’m sorry, I don’t understand.)
9 .El baño, por favor.(The bathroom please.)
10 .Hablas inglés?(Do you speak English?)
Things to Avoid or Be Careful of:
1. Pickpocketing – Be aware of your belongings at all times as pickpocketing is common in crowded places like tourist attractions and popular areas such as the La Rambla promenade in Barcelona.
2. Taxis – Make sure to take licensed taxis with meters or ask how much the fare will cost before getting into a taxi to avoid being overcharged.
3. Tourist Traps – Be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true and double check prices for goods & services so you don’t get ripped off by opportunistic vendors taking advantage of naive tourists!
4. Driving – Spain has some unique driving laws, so make sure you are up-to-date on what is allowed before renting a car! Highways also have speed limits which must be respected or fines can occur if broken!
5. ATM Scams – Keep an eye out for suspicious activity when using ATMs, such as people trying to observe your PIN number or skimming devices placed on the machine itself, both of which could lead to fraudsters stealing your money & personal information!
FAQs:
What kind of clothing should I wear?
When visiting Spain, the clothing you wear should depend on what part of the country you are in. Generally speaking, it is best to dress casually for most occasions. However, when visiting more formal places and attractions like churches or galleries, it’s advisable to be more mindful of your attire. Depending on the season and area you’re in, some lighter layers may be needed as well!
What are the things I should carry while I travel to Spain?
It is important to remember to always carry a valid form of identification such as a passport or driver’s license. Depending on where you are traveling, cash and credit cards may come in handy, although most cities in Spain feature numerous ATMs and debit/credit card machines. In terms of clothing, it is best to consult the weather before packing anything; however, some basic items like shorts, light layers for cooler nights, sandals and comfortable walking shoes are always good essentials! Finally, be sure to bring your camera so that you can capture all the unique sights Spain has to offer!
How do I get around the country/city while travelling to Spain?
The most convenient way to get around Spain is by using public transportation. Spain has an extensive network of bus and rail services, making it easy to get from one city to another. In larger cities, you can use the metro for quick and easy transport within them. Alternatively, you can also rent a car if you prefer a more independent travel experience. Taxis are another popular option in many Spanish cities, although they may be more expensive than other forms of transport. For those looking for budget-friendly options, walking or cycling are great ways to explore the country’s streets and neighborhoods!
What is the best way to exchange currency?
The best way to exchange currency in Spain is to use an authorized bank or bureau de change. You can find bureaus de change in most major Spanish cities, offering competitive rates and a secure transaction environment. Avoid exchanging money with street vendors or other informal exchanges as these can be risky and charge high fees. Additionally, you should always check the current exchange rate before engaging in any currency transactions. Finally, if you’re travelling around Europe, it may be worth considering carrying multiple currencies rather than just Euros for ease of exchange at border points like airports!
What should I do in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency while travelling in Spain, it is important to remain calm and contact the police. Tourism offices, located in most cities throughout the country, can also provide assistance with local government information as well as advice on health services available in the area. There are also a number of foreign consulates throughout Spain that can offer support and assistance with any issue visitors may face while in the country. Additionally, insurers specializing in travel insurance often provide 24-hour international emergency telephone numbers where they can be contacted anytime for further help or support. It is always a good idea to keep their contact details handy during your trip!
Are there any tourist scams I should be careful of?
Yes, there are certain tourist scams to be aware of while travelling in Spain. These include pickpocketing and bag snatching, as well as more sophisticated scams such as people posing as police officers who demand money or passports for bogus reasons. It is also important to be aware of fraudulent websites or online offers that claim to offer discounts or free services; these should always be verified with the website’s customer service before being trusted. Additionally, when dining out, it’s important to check your bill carefully and ensure that any extras like bread, drinks or sauces weren’t added without you realizing. Finally, always use established tour operators for any trips you plan on taking and avoid anyone operating on a street corner who may not have the necessary licenses!
Political Stability Spain:
Spain is a Mediterranean country with a long history and culture that stretches back over 2,000 years. It has been home to many influential civilizations, including the Roman Empire, which left its mark on the nation’s infrastructure and architecture. The country is also well known for its vibrant culture and people, who are renowned for their hospitality and zest for life.
Politically, Spain is one of the oldest European democracies and has been a member of the European Union since 1986. It is currently governed by a parliamentary system with the Prime Minister as head of state and executive power resting in the hands of the ruling party. The Spanish Constitution guarantees a range of freedoms such as freedom of speech, assembly, assembly and association rights. Over recent years Spain has seen periods of political stability with economic growth rates regularly surpassing other European nations despite some turbulent episodes in its past.
Spain plays an important role in global affairs being home to various international organizations such as NATO, G7/G20, OECD, IMF and WTO among others. Additionally it is an active participant in UN peacekeeping operations having deployed personnel to countries like Afghanistan, Haiti and Iraq. As part of its commitment to promoting democratic values abroad it has implemented numerous initiatives to improve governance in vulnerable countries like Colombia or Morocco for example.
Education is highly valued in Spain with citizens enjoying universal access to schooling from primary school through university level education without tuition fees at state universities being charged. In addition there are numerous private colleges offering students a wide range of vocational training courses or higher degrees depending on their interests or career aspirations.
Overall Spain can be considered a politically stable nation with progressive policies that have delivered positive economic results while protecting the civil liberties enjoyed by its citizens both at home and abroad.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Spain is a country with a rich and diverse history that has been shaped by many different cultural influences over the centuries. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient ruins or take in some of the vibrant modern cities, there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy in this beautiful destination. However, it is important to be aware of any potential security issues while travelling around and also respect local customs when exploring different parts of the country. With proper preparation and precautions taken, anyone can experience all that Spain has to offer in an unforgettable way!
