Spain has a soul like no other country. It is full of passion, music and flavors. The landscape is breathtaking, the food is spicy and the sangria is cold. Spain is very serious about celebrating the guilty pleasures in life. So the time has come to start planning a trip to Spain! Pack your bags and let’s explore the best cities to visit in 2018!
Popular itinerary in Spain:
Barcelona, Spain
Exciting and sensual, Barcelona is one of the most special cities in the world, and an obvious first choice for the best cities in Spain for 2018. It mixes ancient architecture, medieval cathedrals, breathtaking art, sunny beaches and of course- delicious tapas. Barcelona is full of joy and color, and once the sun sets, Barcelona really comes to life. Locals and tourists alike flock to the streets, looking for a fun night out in one of the Barcelona’s many bars, and music fills the air with a flamenco beat.
Don’t miss: La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s Park Guell, the magnificent La Rambla street and Mercat de la Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest food markets. Make sure to check out our foodie guide to Barcelona!
Valencia
Spain’s third largest city is a force to be reckoned with. Home to the traditional paella, Valencia is a perfect combination of the past with the future. Striking Avant-garde and futuristic structures, alongside the charm of an historical Spanish port town. A must-see when planning a trip to Spain!
Like a local tip: You must see the “City of Arts and Sciences” in order to believe it. This science museum, aquarium, and music venue has futuristic architecture that is uniquely stunning. Don’t forget to drink Valencia’s most famous cocktail – Agua de Valencia!
Granada
The city’s claim to fame is the awe inspiring Alhambra Palace and fortress, a complex that is a tribute to the city’s Moorish history. Alhambra includes summer palaces, gardens and fountains and is standing tall on a mountain range, overlooking Granada.
Our tip: Walk up to Mirador de San Nicolas at sunset and you will have the best views of The Alhambra.
Seville
According to legend, Seville was founded by none other than Hercules. Located on the Guadalquivir river banks, Seville is a product of its rich history – Moorish, medieval and Roman. Seville’s Alcázar is a sight to behold. This Moorish palace was built in the 1300s and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic monument will take your breath away.
Make sure to visit: Plaza de España. The plaza is known as the as “the Venice of Seville” and it includes a massive building with a tower at each end, canal crossed by bridges, and a magnificent plaza in the middle.
Cordoba
Walking around Cordoba will make you feel like you are immersed in the city’s rich history. If you’re a history buff and you’re planning a trip to Spain, Cordoba should be top priority! Having once been the capital of Islamic Spain, Cordoba is full of monuments that celebrate Moorish traditions as well as the Jewish ones. But one building stands taller than others – the Mezquita. Córdoba’s great mosque and one of the world’s most phenomenal Islamic architectural achievements, the Mezquita’s beauty is beyond words.
Like a local tip: Walk around The Barrio Santa Cruz. This neighborhood was once Cordoba’s old Jewish quarter and today has lots of cool little bars and cafes.
Madrid
Madrid is the epitome of life and energy. Spain’s capital is historic, modern, passionate and cosmopolitan. The city’s architecture is diverse and breathtaking – medieval, contemporary and Baroque styles, all reside together in glorious harmony. Madrid is also foodies’ heaven, from traditional tapas to gourmet restaurants.
Check out: Museo del Prado, the stunning Parque del Buen Retiro and Madrid’s Plaza Mayor.
Which of these cities do you want to see when you’re planning a trip to Spain? Let us know, and comment below!
You may also enjoy our post about the 10 most charming small towns in Spain!
