Barcelona City Hall

The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) is one of Barcelona’s most famous and interesting areas. This is where the early Roman city of Barcino was established and in this area one can also find streets and buildings from the Middle Ages.

The Barri Gòtic has one of the richest concentrations of medieval buildings in Europe.  There are small winding alleyways which open out into squares where visitors can find all manner of Gothic-era buildings, shops housed in centuries-old structures, cafes and much more, providing many hours of fascinating exploration.

Placa Sant Jaume and Surrounds

Set around Plaça de Sant Jaume are some of the most fascinating examples of medieval architecture in Europe. On one side of the square is the Ajuntament ( Barcelona’s City Hall)  which was the built in the 15th century. Facing the City Hall is the magnificent Palau de la Generalitat with its Gothic features. This is the seat of the Catalan government.

Plaça de Sant Jaume is a nice place to have a break and enjoy a fine Spanish coffee or tapas. If you’re hankering for a sandwich, Conesa at C/ Llibreteria, 1 has the best, if not the biggest range of sandwiches in town.  We were told that even the politicians come here to get their lunch.

Roman Tower - Barri Gotic

Roman Barcelona

And there are sections that are still older. Barcelona was an ancient Roman city dating back 2,000 years. Near via Laietana and its surroundings there are remnants of that beginning still extant in modern Barcelona. Roman walls, wall towers, stone streets and other elements are reminders of the Roman influence of the ancient city of Barcino here. At the Casa de l’Ardiaca it is possible to see remnants of a Roman aqueduct.

Barcelona Churches

Walk along the Carrer del Bisbe and you’ll come to the entrance of one of the most magnificent churches in Europe, the soaring Barcelona Cathedral, referred to as La Seu. This 14th century structure has been updated periodically since its founding and now sports a stellar 19th century faux-Gothic facade. For those who love religious architecture, do not miss standing in the Plaça de la Seu outside for a good view. To the right of La Seu is the Palau Reial where a flea market is held on Sunday.

Even the smaller churches are well worth a look. The Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi is an example that continues to attract visitors by the score every summer.

Shopping

Shoppers will find many worthwhile sights, too. Along Carrer de Ferran, which leads to Las Ramblas, there are shops galore . Lace, handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs and much more adorn walls that have seen many generations come and go.

In the public square those who enjoy street performers can find an outstanding example in the weekly Sardana Dance performances given here. There are also many cafes where one could stop for a cool cerveza.

For those who wish to kick on in the evening there are the numerous nightclubs dotting the Barri Gotic.  There is a range of hotels to stay at in the area for those who want to make the Barri Gòtic home base in Barcelona.

Map of Barcelona Barri Gotic:

Getaria - Birthplace of Elcano and Balenciaga

On route from Bilbao to San Sebastian, we travel through Getaria, a medieval, walled coastal town in the province of Gipuzkoa. One of Getaria’s most famous sons is Juan Sebastián, Elcano the first man to circumnavigate the globe in 1522. In the town are statues commemorating Elcano and there is also an impressive Monument to Elcano which can be seen as you approach Getaria.

Getaria is well known for its seafaring tradition and many of its more prominent citizens were involved in Spanish expeditions to discover the world. Getaria has been an important commercial and fishing port since the Middle Ages. For hundreds of years, whaling was very important in the economy of the town. In fact, the whale forms part of the crest for the town.

Getaria Attractions

A name that’s still famous in the haute couture world today is that of Cristóbal Balenciaga. At the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museoa, visitors can see exhibitions of some of the 1,200 creations by this famous Getaria designer.

Getaria has two beautiful beaches, Malkorbe and Gaztetape, which are a great attraction for visitors wanting a beach holiday or to surf.

Fishing still plays an important part in the town’s economy and the port area has many canning industries, restaurants and steakhouses.  Grilled fish from the Bay of Biscay is the town’s speciality.

The txakoli is another of Getaria’s famous products.  Although the Getaria txakoli has a designation of origin classification, this famous Basque country white wine is produced in the whole of the Gipuzkoa region.  However the Getaria txakoli is unique in that the grapes are grown on slopes. Txakoli of course goes well with the grilled fish that is a Getaria specialty.

Camino de Santiago – Coastal Road

Getaria is also on the popular coastal route of Camino de Santiago or St James Way. Pilgrims wanting to enjoy the seaviews of the Gipuzkoa Coast  often include the coastal strip in their walk.

The Saiaz Getaria Hotel is in the Old town of Getaria.  For other places to stay near Getaria, see HERE.

See more photos of Getaria at Travelsignposts photo gallery HERE.

Map of Gipuzkoa Coast:

Costa Del Sol - Travelsignposts

Costa del Sol is an area on the southern coast of Spain, just to the east of Gibraltar. With 160 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, the Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations. This coastal strip provides the allure of its beaches for Europeans seeking sun, sand and sea. From Nerja, its eastern-most point to Manilva at the western border, Costa del Sol is Spain’s thriving tourist industry.

The Costa del Sol region has an exceptional climate. With over 300 days of sun a year, a temperate climate and an average water temperature of 18C, visitors can enjoy the warm Costa del Sol weather almost anytime of the year.

About the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol has long been a favourite tourist destination for British holidaymakers. This is not surprising as the origin of one of Spain’s most important tourism destinations can be traced to the early 20th century when Englishman George Langworthy purchased Santa Clara Castle in Torremolinos and transformed it into a residence for foreigners. Years later two other property owners followed suit and these three establishments were the foundation of today’s Costa del Sol.

With the emergence of Torremolinos, other towns followed in the late sixties and early seventies producing a domino effect. The neighbouring towns of Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Mijas also began their unforseen tourism growth. Marbella is another popular town in the Costa del Sol that is popular with the rich and famous.

A Torremolinos Stopover

But mass tourism also has its detrimental effects and Torremolinos unfortunately developed a reputation as a destination for cheap package holidays and cheap alcohol.  So, it was with trepidation that we arrived at Torremollinos for our two day stopover.

Torremolinos - Travelsignposts

But fortunately, Torremolinos has improved somewhat since our last visit about ten years ago. The Melia Costa Del Sol that we stayed at is very smart. There is now a nice paved walkway along the beachfront. The beaches have been cleaned up as well and most of the beaches are now covered with areas of deck chairs and beach umbrellas for rent. It seems the local council has leased out most of the beach spaces to these businesses who charge for use of the deck chairs.

Along the beachfront there are hundreds of cafes, seafood restaurants and bars. The stretch of Torremolinos that we stayed at was not as seedy as we had feared it would be.

Shopping at Torremolinos

For those who want to shop, head for San Miguel street which leads to the main town centre. The alleyway up to the town centre is lined with shops selling all kinds of cheap products.

Torremolinos is strictly a beach holiday destination and from here you can take excursions to places like Mihas with its white houses or the caves in Nerja.

Costa del Sol Accommodation

Costa del Sol caters to all budget types and the younger crowd may find it more affordable here than at northern resorts in Santander.  To search for Costa del Sol accommodation see HERE.

Plaza Mayor - Madrid © Travelsignposts

Madrid today is one of the major tourist hotspots in Europe. Once ground zero of the Spanish Inquisition, it is now best known for its life-celebrating art, outstanding shopping centres, restaurants and lively nightclubs.

For the visitor, Madrid offers art museums that are second to none, shopping that perhaps only trails London and Paris and great food. In Spain’s capital city you can also enjoy fiery flamenco dances or join the locals in watching a heated soccer match.

For something more calming, Madrid’s parks are also great places to visit. In short, be prepared to spend some time here.

Art in Madrid

Madrid is a city of art and the Prado Museum alone is enough reason for art lovers to come to this city. But there is the equally outstanding Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, a new addition to the city’s art offerings. Founded by the wealthy industrial family, Baron Thyssen and his wife, it houses over 700 of Europe’s treasures from the 13th-20th centuries.

And, for those who want something more modern, the Queen Sofia houses enough 20th century art to satisfy modern art fans.

Parks in Madrid

But there’s much more to see and do in Madrid than stroll around art museums. For a lovely walk in Madrid’s warm sunshine, you’ll want to visit the Parque del Buen Retiro. Though only about a third the size of Manhattan’s Central Park, and much smaller than London’s Hyde Park, it is second to none in beauty. Besides the lovely grounds there are lakes, sculptures and the Crystal Palace to see and enjoy.

Madrid Attractions

The dome of the Basilica de San Francisco El Grande  is larger than St. Paul’s Cathedral and has almost as much art as St. Peter’s in Rome, you won’t be disappointed.

Don’t miss seeing the Palacio Real, the Royal Palace, either. Long the home of Spain’s monarchs, it still contains the throne room, the Royal Armory and the Royal Pharmacy. You can stand in some of its 2,800 rooms and imagine what it must have been like to rule half the world from there. Here you’ll see El Cid’ssword and hundreds of jewels, porcelain vases and other objects on display.

Madrid’s Squares

For more outside pleasures there are several other major options. The Puerto del Solis the geographical and civic centre of Madrid and all of Spain. The paving slab marked Kilometre Zero is the literal beginning for the country’s six major highways, radiating outward from there. Puerto del Sol is also the favourite hangout for local youngsters and there is a large police presence here.

Meson Tapas Bar © Travelsignposts

Plaza Mayor is not far away. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the dozens of cafes or restaurants or just sit in the shade and watch the people go by. The square, nearly 100 metre on each side, is surrounded by buildings that have seen everything from bullfights to beheadings.

Food in Madrid

There are plenty of tapas bars, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the fine foods of Madrid. We liked the Mercado de San Miguel so much that we found ourselves going back there. If you like paella, Madrid is one of the three Spanish cities noted for paella.

Shopping in Madrid

But leave some time for shopping. Gran Via is Madrid’s most well known avenue for shopping but there are dozens of others: Calle Alcala, Calle Montera, Calle Princesa… the list is endless. Whether you want a fine antique, a new pair of elegant shoes or some of Europe’s best fashion, you’ll find it in one of Madrid’s boutiques and the choices are knee-deep. A favourite with the Spanish is El Cortes Inglés, a department store chain that is present in many Spanish cities.  Prices at El Cortes des Inglés are competitive.  For those who enjoy flea markets, El Rastro is the place to visit, but beware of pick-pockets.

It may not take you 400 years (the time it has been Spain’s capital) to see all that Madrid has to offer, but be prepared to spend some time here.

Cadaqués Harbour by Nathan

Situated in the most easterly point in northern Spain and just across the border from France, Cadaqués may have well been just another small sleepy fishing village in the Alt Empordà county.  But, this pretty Catalonian coastal town in the Cap de Creus was propelled to international fame through the presence and residency of one of the world’s most famous Surrealist artists – Salvador Dalí. In the 1960′s the young and trendy came to Cadaqués in droves in search of Dalí, causing the town to be dubbed the “St Tropez of Spain”.

Dalí and Cadaqués

Dalí was a frequent visitor to Cadaqués during his childhood days. And, it seems that a summer holiday here in 1916 with the family of Ramon Pichot was a catalyst to Dalí’s artistic career. Ramon Pichot, an artist himself and a good friend of Picasso, was a early mentor to Dalí. Later on, Dalí established a home in Portlligat, a small village on the bay. This is now the much visited Salvador Dalí House-Museum.

But, Salvador Dalí was not the only artist to have been attracted to Cadaqués. Pablo Picasso, Chagall, Joan Joan Miró, Marcel Duchamp, Antoni Pitxot and a host of famous and international artists have also spent time here.  So, apart from the presence of Dalí, what else does this small town have that inspires artists to come here.

About Cadaqués

Cadaqués is set in an area of natural beauty. Its natural landscape comprises a blend of wind-swept steep cliffs plunging into the sea, tranquil coves, lovely beaches and crystal clear blue water. The old town is made up of a charming web of narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses with the Baroque Santa Maria Church watching over it.

Dalí's House in Cadaqués by Gordito 1869

Although Cadaqués sunny climate, natural harbour and clear water are a big attraction for those seeking water sports and a beach holiday, it is more of an arty town with many museums and art galleries for the art-loving tourist.  The Salvador Dalí House-Museum is a huge attraction. The small Museu d’Art (Municipal Art Museum) at Carrer Narcis Monturiol 15 exhibits works of local artists who have maintained close links with Cadaqués as well as some big name artists and the Perrot-Moore Museum has some Dalí artwork as well as a collection of European graphic art. Cadaqués also has an annual International Music Festival which is held in the Church of Santa Maria.

Cadaqués is a good base from which to discover the other towns and villages in the Alt Empordà county.  There is a range of hotels and self-catering accommodation to choose from in Cadaqués.

The restaurants in this town allow visitors to sample the rich culinary tradition of Empordà as well as the fresh catches from the sea.  The Ampurdán-Costa Brava region also produces its own DOC (Denomination of Origin) wines.

The nearest airport to Cadaqués is Girona-Costa Brava Airport.  For public transportation, the Sarfa bus company provides services to Figueres, Girona, Barcelona and other destinations.

Search for Cadaqués hotels, read hotel reviews and book your Cadaqués hotel here >
Sarfa Bus – www.sarfa.com

Cadaqués Map:

Teatro Museo Dali, Figueres

That Salvador Dalí was born in Figueres is sufficient reason for art lovers to be excited about this town. Figueres (Catalan for fig trees) is in the Alt Empordà or Upper Empordà region in the province of Girona.  Figueres was where Dalí was born on May 11, 1904 and at the age of 15, he had his first exhibition.

Like the nearby town of Girona, Figueres is a popular day-trip destination for visitors on holidays in the Costa Brava.  Day-trippers from Barcelona can do tours covering these two towns.

Although Salvador Dalí and the Teatro Museo Dalí dominate this town, Figueres has many other famous sons, one of them being Narcis Monturiol i Estarriol, the inventor of the first machine powered submarine.

La Rambla is the city´s central avenue which also forms as the axis linking the old quarter with the expanded new city. La Rambla is also the main pedestrian shopping precinct.

Places of interest in Figueres include:  the Monument to Narcís Monturiol, the house where Dalí was born, Plaça Gala i Salvador Dalí, Church of Sant Pere, Plaça de la Font Lluminosa, Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça del Gra, Plaça de l’Ajuntament, the former Abattoir, Carrer de la Jonquera and the Jewish quarter. Visitors can take in most of these sights on a two-hour walking tour.

Figueres’ star attraction is the Teatro Museo Dalí the museum that was designed by Dalí. Even those visitors who are not too familiar with the work of this master artist will be mesmerized by the surrealist world of Dalí.  The Dalí Museum building itself is amazing work of art. More than a couple of hours are required to truly appreciate the Dalí Theatre Museum and the Dalí Jewels, said to be the most visited museum in Spain after the Prado.

Figueres is also a city with a tradition for trade fairs and festivals. The main trade fairs and festivals which take place in the city include:  Firagri, Fair of Santa Creu, Alt Empordà Wine exhibition, Sant Josep-Fira del Bunyol de l’Empordà Fair, Trade Fair-Market, Toy Festival Intergalactic Meeting of Collectors’ Toys, Cut-price Trade Fair and Saint George’s Day.

Situated about 36 km from Girona town and 136 km from Barcelona, Figueres is also the largest Spanish city close to the border with France. This makes Figueres an important communication hub. Since December 2010, a new high-speed rail TGV network connects Figueres to Perpignan, with connections to Madrid-Barcelona scheduled to start service in 2012. The railway station is located in the city centre and opposite to it is the bus station which services the Catalan bus lines as well as the international destinations.  Figueres is also served by Girona Airport, which is 50 km away.

For those wanting to make Figueres their base to enjoy Dalí’s world, there are a number of Figueres hotels that are just 500 metres away.

See our Rail Europe page here.  For train bookings from Perpignan to Figueras, select the TGV network.  >

Map of Figueres:

Girona, Catalonia

Girona is one of the two most famous towns in northern Catalonian province of Girona (same name as the town), the other being Figueres. This beautiful walled city is a popular destination for day-trippers from Barcelona and tourists as well.

Girona is a city which brims with history, having endured many sieges and been captured seven times by various invading nations. For the visitor to Girona, the first and brightest impression would probably be the colourful houses along the bank of the River Onyar, a river which divides the historic centre from the new.

Girona Attractions

Girona was originally built by the Romans as a fortress, and the best way to explore the medieval town is to lose yourself in the alluring labyrinth of narrow streets which still reflect its two centuries of Moorish occupation.

But beware that not all places with Arab names are of Moorish origin. The Banys Arabs (Arabian baths) for instance, are Roman buildings inspired by the Roman public baths with three pools, each with a different water temperature.

Alternatively, you could follow the Passeig Arqueologic (Archaeological Walk) which runs around the city. The walk starts from the north of the town centre near the Iglesia de Sant Pere de Galligants (St Peter of the Cock Crows). This church now houses Girona’s archaeological collection. From St Peter, take the narrow street into the old part of town where the huge Roman foundation stones mark the route of the Via Augusta, an important road which linked to Rome.

Some other attractions in Girona

• Iglesia de Sant Feliu – with its 4th century sarcophagi, is the most popular place of devotion. You can climb up to the belltower for an aerial view of Girona. On the outside is a column being climbed by a stone lioness. Locals believe that if you kiss its backside you are sure to return to Girona.
• Catedral Girona holds the magnificent and well-preserved 12th-century Creation Tapestry.
• Centre Bonastruc Ca Porta – Girona’s Jewish quarter is one of the best preserved in Europe and a major tourist attraction. The Jewish community flourished during the 12th century.
• Auditori de Girona – Girona also has its own symphonic hall for those who are spending a few days here, there is the possibility to enjoy some classical concerts in one of Spain’s most beautiful cities.

Cycling enthusiasts may be interested to know that Girona has been home to cycling professionals like George Hincapie and Lance Armstrong who have lived in this town whilst training in the vicinity.

Getting to Girona:

• The Girona-Costa Brava Airport is approximately twelve kilometres south-west of the city of Girona.  Ryanair has a bus service that takes passengers into Girona town.
• Girona is served by the main train line from Barcelona to Portbou.
• You could also do day tours from Barcelona which cover both Girona and Figueres.

Search for Girona hotels, read hotel reviews and book your Girona hotel here.>

Restaurants in Girona >

Map of Girona:

Aerial View of Port Vell, Barcelona

Barcelona is a city by the sea, the Mediterranean Sea to be exact. Like most coastal towns its history and ambiance are affected by that fact. For centuries the Port of Barcelona was the scene of seafarers and townspeople bustling about on traditional business and activities that take place at any port.   But Port Vell fell into disuse over the generations. Its warehouses fell empty, its rail roads less travelled, its industrial buildings grew quiet.

Fortunately, like many coastal towns such as San Francisco and Boston, Barcelona saw an opportunity to revitalize its seaside area just prior to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

In an ambitious urban renewal effort lasting years, the wharf became a yacht basin, the buildings transformed into shops, an IMAX and an aquarium. Its rail lines became walkways for the millions that now throng the area every year. A coastal road was even moved underground to enable visitors to walk safely from one exciting offering to another.

Things to See in Port Vell

The Port de Barcelona building has a very ornamental facade and is worthy of a few holiday snaps.  And, the Rambla de Mar is more than just a walkway over space and water. It is itself a thing of beauty.  Walk across the Rambla de Mar and you’ll find the  Maremàgnum, one of the major attractions in Port Vell. This mall is full of shops, theatres, restaurant and other leisure amenities.  Just behind this building is the IMAX cinema and Barcelona Aquarium.

Like many in larger cities, the IMAX offers an enormous 3-D screen. But there is also a flat screen IMAX and an Omnimax. Here, visitors can take advantage of any of the three different shows that play continuously. There are discount tickets available that will get you into all three events.

The Barcelona Aquarium is the largest attraction of the Port Vell area and its popularity is well deserved. With 8,000 aquatic species, including a dozen sharks, this 6 million litre facility will delight marine-life lovers of all ages. One section offers an 80-metre long observation tunnel. Along the glass walls you can see hundreds of native deep sea species, as well as the sharks.

South of the Maremagnum lies the Aduana building. The structure was erected in 1902 and served as the customs house. It now provides an outstanding sight for visitors who want to get a feeling for turn of the 20th century architecture in Barcelona. Nearby, stretched along the pier, is Barcelona’s World Trade Centre.

Even the sea sights will be of interest to many visitors. The luxury yachts and sailing ships are a delight to the eye. One can often see them moving gracefully around the sea just off shore. Take a boat tour and enjoy a view of Barcelona available nowhere else in the city. The peaceful cruise provides a nice contrast to the bustling waterfront.

When you’re done with this part of the marina, stroll back across the walkway and up the road a short way and spend some time viewing the Monument a Colon (Columbus Monument). The explorer is memorialized on top of a 60m column in the form of a statue that points toward the sea.

The monument, erected in 1888, resides at the site where the great man landed in 1493 after his discovery of the direct sea route to America. It is located in the centre of the Placa del Portal de la Pau (Square of the Gate of Peace).

Enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and dining or catch a show. Go cycling or roller-blading then have a cool drink at one of the many bars. Port Vell is easy to find. Just walk east until you hit a very large expanse of blue-green water topped by an azure sky, or take the Metro to Drassanes.  If you’re doing some Barcelona sightseeing, Port Vell is on the Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off tour route.

For those who want a Barcelona hotel that is close to the marina, there is a range of hotels just a stone’s throw from the Port Vell.

Sagrada Familia - Gaudi's Barcelona

Like many great cities around the world, Barcelona flowered in the late Middle Ages and blossomed in the mid-19th century. Although it is an ancient city, born of the Roman Empire, there are many exciting elements of the modern period to be seen in Barcelona as well. These periods are all evident in this northeastern Spanish city on the Mediterranean Sea coast.

Visitors can find a remnant of old Roman architecture here and there, in the form of part of an aqueduct in the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter) and some of the streets. But unlike Rome itself, most of the older buildings are from the time that give this area its name. The medieval years saw many of Barcelona’s famed churches born, including the world famous La Seu. The Barri Gotic is the true heart of Barcelona and here you will find many museums, historic squares and buildings. Barcelona’s most famous avenue Las Ramblas or Les Rambles also runs through the Old Town.

The late 19th-early 20th century is alive and well in this artistic city, too, thanks to Antonio Gaudi and his patrons. Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia are two notable examples, but there are many others. Casa Milà is still another. Even the lampposts outside the Pla de Palau show the distinctive touch of this unique artist.

But Gaudi has hardly been alone in forming the great buildings and monuments of Barcelona. The Arc de Triomf, built for the 1888 Universal Exhibition, is an outstanding example. Though not so well known as the Parisian structure of that name, it is no less a thing of beauty. The many sights of Cituadella Park, Montjuic, and other areas of the city provide still more samples of the great things to see here.

The whole range of art throughout these centuries is on display at MNAC (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya). Here, visitors can find examples of objects from the Romanesque period (early 11th century) and continuing through the turn of the century, works drawn from all over Catalonia.

The modern era has hardly been neglected in Barcelona, either.

The Poble Espanyol, like many other famed structures in the city, was built for the 1929 International Exhibition. This collection of over 100 buildings was drawn from every style in Spain. Apart from seeing the whole range of Spanish residential architecture in a single location, visitors can shop, dine and dance to their hearts content.

For those after a fine combination of food and civic art you could do no better than a visit to La Boqueria, or the St. Joseph’s Market. Housed in a stellar 19th century structure, dozens of produce stalls offering every kind of native fruit and vegetable greet wanderers. Then when it’s time for a rest, shoppers can sample one of the several superb tapas bars, such as Pinotxo.

If you’re travelling with kids, you may wish to head out to the Barcelona Zoo or the Aquarium at Port Vell or venture to the top of Montjuic for an unforgettable view of the entire city of Barcelona. For, no matter where they go in this world-class city, visitors to the capital of Catalonia will be presented with some of the finest things to see and do anywhere in Europe.

And like many of the capital cities in Europe, there’s a wide range of hotels to choose from for your Catalonia holiday.

Map of Spain with major cities

A Suggested Route around Spain

Although Spain is a major tour destination in its own right, many tours combine it with Portugal and even Morocco. Such combinations inevitably miss out interesting areas. Here’s a route that covers most of the major Spanish attractions so you can get an overall picture:

Note: links to the towns go to photo albums on the Travel Signposts website

MADRID – Segovia – Avila – SALAMANCA – Leon – Lugo – SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – Coruna – Burgos – VITORIA – Santander – Bilbao – San Sebastian – PAMPLONA – Zaragoza – BARCELONA – Peniscola – Tarragona – VALENCIA – Alicante – GRANADA – Las Alpujarras (ORGIVA, Bubion, Trevelez) – Malaga – Torremolinos – Marbella – Gibraltar – Jerez – SEVILLE – Cordoba – Toledo – MADRID

This tour would take a minimum of fifteen days to do and you wouldn’t be sitting still much, twenty would be more comfortable! If you wanted to cut it down, missing out the Santiago de Compostela extension and omitting the Alpujarras detour would still give you a pretty comprehensive tour.

A Spectacular and Diverse Country

Spain is a spectacular and diverse country. Although you may tend to think about the beaches and drier landscape of the south, don’t forget the north, especially the Basque Region, with its different food, mountains, ancient hill top walled villages and rolling, green hills that remind you a bit of Ireland.

Whether you’re visiting the Alhambra in Granada or the Grand Mosque of Cordoba (the Mezquita), or Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, or the Antoni Gaudi designed Parc Guell or Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s best-known landmark, the variety of attractions is astonishing.

And although you may have a tight schedule, the thing to remember is that Spain is best experienced slowly. Take it easy and relax, especially in the countryside, where life and the local people tend to move to a slower rhythm…you won’t regret it!

TRAVEL TO SPAIN WITH US: PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

Some other Spain pages:

Travel to Spain for a Europe tour with passion!

When to travel to Spain for your tour: weather and seasons

Useful facts, dates and links to help you plan your tour of Spain

Book your sightseeing tours or day-trips in Spain online

Book your hotel in Spain online