Featuring dramatic imposing mountains and glistening beaches, Spain has everything you need for your next greatest holiday. There’s so much to discover in the breath-taking country which has become one of the most visited places in Europe today.
But there’s so much more to Spain than bull fights and siestas. From the majestic properties of the flamenco to the historical gems of Madrid, España has a rich diversity waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for inspo for your next grand adventure post lockdown, look no further as Chia Kougianos reveals a few of the best places to visit in Spain with her Top 6 next…
Alicante
When it comes to the city of Alicante it’s all about sun, sea and one soaring rocky peak. This gorgeous coastal town boasts Mount Benacantil as its backdrop on the main beach, a huge rocky mountain which has the Castle of Santa Barbara sitting proudly on top. The classic Mediterranean old-town has a string of white-washed houses and cobblestone streets together with churches and museums and an endless array of tapas bars.
Barcelona
If you’re anything like me and you can’t get enough of people watching when in a foreign place, you’ll be overjoyed to hear Las Ramblas was made for us. And for those who prefer to have their curiosity peaked by world-famous art, there’s always the real-life works of Picasso and Gaudi to see in Barcelona. For those food lovers out there, this incredible city is brimming with just over 20 Michelin stars so you can reach foodie heaven with a few clicks and a reservation booking.
Granada
When it comes to the sights and sounds of the city of Granada it almost feels like a fairy-tale. Here you can work your way along the streets of the old Moorish city, take in the views of the snow-capped mountains and explore the humble dwellings of an historic gypsy neighbourhood made famous for its flamenco performances. If you’re happy to travel a little further you could spend a day in Sacromonte, which has cave houses and live music and dancing after dark.
Valencia
The city of Valencia is fondly known as the home of paella, making it the perfect place to sample one of Spain’s most famous homemade dishes. It also plays host to one of the country’s largest zoos and the Valencia City of Arts and Sciences. This spaceship-like complex has an aquarium and an IMAX cinema, together with an opera house and science museum. This picturesque city is situated right on the Mediterranean so at the end of the day you could spend your days sunbathing and tucking into delectable cuisine with a beach villa to call home if you prefer.
Madrid
For art lovers, Madrid is the destination for you as it features everything from Picasso’s Guernica to Velázquez’s Las Meninas. The city has some of the best art museums on the continent with renaissance masterworks and seminal 20th-century pieces all ready and waiting to be admired. If you’re just there for the weekend I’d definitely recommend soaking in the city’s impressive skyline at a not-so-secret rooftop bar Casa Granada or indulging in world-class cuisine from around the globe at Mercado de Vallehermoso. Or if you’re on the scout for authentic tapas, the La Latina neighbourhood has an array of hotspots ideal for an afternoon tapas crawl.
Ibiza
Famous for its clubs and thriving nightlife, Ibiza is also known for its natural beauty and striking beaches. It’s home to little fishing villages and has recently become an #instatravel hotspot for yoga retreats. Topping the list for worthy local attractions is undoubtedly the Cafe del Mar. This sunset beach bar has been serving cocktails since the 80’s and it’s become an Ibiza institution and the sunset views are unbeatable.