23+ Best Places To Visit In Spain To Have The Best Time Of Your Life

Spain is usually associated with turquoise beaches, diverse cuisine, and a rich culture. It is so popular that it was ranked as one of the most visited countries for tourism. And it actually lives up to the hype with beautiful cities filled with unexpected joy that you can explore.

Intending to visit this country for the first time? Here is a list of the 23+ best places to visit in Spain that you can consider. From the best beaches, the historical sites, to the outstanding cuisine, Spain has various options to offer, ready to make your trip to this country a remarkable time.

>>> Maybe you are also interested in: The Essential Europe Travel Packing List

Top Spots To Visit In Spain For Beach-Lovers

If you’re heading to one of these places, don’t forget to check out our beach packing list to make sure you’ve got everything you need for sun, sea, and sand.

1. Marbella

Marbella is famous for its luxurious lifestyle. Photo by jordi2r - stock.adobe.com.

Marbella usually comes up as a city with a luxurious lifestyle. However, it’s a huge left out if not to mention its wonderful beaches. Situated on the Costa Del Sol, Marbella has various beaches just minutes away from the central town, each has its own charm.

If you want to enjoy an energetic beach with bars and restaurants, come to the Playa de Cabopino, Playa de la Fontanilla, or the Playa de la Bajadilla, etc. If you want to experience something more peaceful yet still beautiful with golden sand and clear water, come to the Playa de las Chapas or Playa de Elviria. 

Most beaches here are equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, and restrooms. You can choose one to experience the watersports or simply enjoy a picnic on the beach with your family members. There are also exclusive beach clubs ready to serve any of your needs.

Also, don’t miss out on the chance to visit its renowned restaurants and the remnants of historic Andalusia, which have ebbed into the walls of the Old Town.

Best Backpack For Exploring Spain

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2. Gran Canaria

Beaches in Gran Canaria have different vibes and terrains. Photo by Balate Dorin - stock.adobe.com.

Gran Canaria is an island with the second-largest population in the Canary archipelago. This island is fondly called by many nicknames, the most popular is “miniature continent” to represent its diverse terrain. However, its beaches are what make it one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Beaches in Gran Canaria are usually associated with the image of long stretches of golden sand. You can find 11 beaches on the island, each has its own unique experience. But to pick out the one beach that you must visit, we recommend Las Canteras. 

Las Canteras is the main urban beach on the island, allowing you to enjoy water sports while still having all the best amenities and urban modernity. You can easily access this beach at any time of the day, minutes from the centre of town. This beach is also popular for its unique marine life, home to thousands of fish and coral reefs that you can see when snorkelling.

Another beach you should visit is the Maspalomas. This beach has a separate area for nudists, but that’s not its only charm. The most iconic image of Maspalomas is the enormous sand dunes right next to the sea and the lighthouse built in the 19th century. You can come here for a peaceful experience or have a taste of the local cuisine in various restaurants.

You can visit Gran Canaria almost all year round, as the weather here is always consistent with long sunny days. Besides the beaches, spend time visiting the rustic towns, ravines, and historical sites here.

3. Formentera

Beaches in Formentera are the signature image of the Mediterranean. Photo by juanjo - stock.adobe.com.

Formentera is a typical image of what people usually think of the Mediterranean. This island is a paradise just a little away from Ibiza, popular for its turquoise water, white sand, and laid-back vibe. Definitely a must for any European island-hopping itinerary.

The island is also popular for having the biggest shipwreck in the whole Mediterranean, with rich marine life, definitely worth diving under.

Not too crowded and bustling, Formentera consists of small white villages and elegant, luxurious resorts. You can spend days relaxing here or only a day away from the hustle of Ibiza. The island is filled with luxurious restaurants, typical of fresh ingredients caught that day.

4. Begur

Beaches in Begur lean towards an untouched style. Photo by JackF - stock.adobe.com.

Begur lies on the southern coast of Baix Empordà. This town is famous for its unique vibe of ancient harmonised with the modern white Mediterranean villages and stunning natural beauty.

There are a total of 08 coves and beaches in Begur, all have a different vibe, from untouched rugged to cosy family-friendly. What these beaches have in common is transparent water, fine sand and a peaceful vibe. 

If you are more of an adventurer, you can come to Platja Fonda or Aiguafreda. The rocks secluded these places, therefore they don’t have any amenities on the shore but preserve their most natural state. You will have to climb quite a lot to get down to the beaches.

If you are looking for a beach with cultural values, Sa Riera and Fornells are the best choices. Both have historical monuments nearby and have their own stories. If you are only looking for a beach to relax and enjoy the water, come to Aiguablava or Platja del Racó. The town also has a nude beach named Illa Roja.

Besides the gleaming beaches, don’t forget to spend time visiting the historical sites when coming to Begur. There are many attractions such as the medieval castle, the old fishermen's houses, the Indies houses, etc.

Best Places To Visit In Spain For History Enthusiasts

The country isn’t just about beaches and fiestas, it’s also steeped in thousands of years of history. If you love stories carved in stone and centuries-old charm, here are the best places to visit in Spain:

5. Seville

Seville has a rich history. Photo by ronnybas - stock.adobe.com.

Seville is the capital of Andalucía. The city is famous for its history as an important centre for both cultural and economic exchange. Founded in the early days, Seville has been marked by the Romans, Muslims, and many other races, creating a mix in its traditions and landscape.

The most popular historical monument of the city is surely the La Giralda. This is the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral, built in the 12th century. Next will be the Alcazar, a Christian palace built in the 13th century. And there is also Archivo de las Indias, a repository that archives the Spanish history of their colonisation in America.

But the rich history of Seville doesn’t stop there. It seeps through the architecture and lifestyle of people here. Wandering around town, you will easily see artworks, ceramic masterpieces, flamenco performances, etc. The city is also popular for its vibrant festivals with public dances like sevillanas. So if possible, schedule your visit so that you can participate in a festival here.

CabinZero tips: Like many popular spots in Europe, pickpockets can be a concern, especially in busy areas. Keep your valuables close and secure with a hip bag, ideally one with RFID protection for extra peace of mind.

6. Granada

Granada is a mixture of different art styles. Photo by Valery Bareta - stock.adobe.com

Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain. The city is considered one of the best places to visit in Spain based on its unique harmony of many art styles such as Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Moorish. All of these are reflected in the architecture and historical monuments scattered around the city.

Granada’s rich history is due to its prime geographical location. Located between the banks of Darro and Genil, it was contested by many parties in the past. Each ruling empire left behind its own cultural values. 

Explore the Moorish culture in the 13th century by visiting the Alhambra and Generalife Palace, and walking around the Albaicín. All were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage. Learn more about Spanish Royalty by coming to the Granada Cathedral, a masterpiece built in the 16th century and where the tomb of Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon is.

While wandering around these famous destinations, don’t forget to stop by the traditional market like Alcaicería, or visit the local neighbourhoods like Sacromonte or Plaza del Principe. You will easily find a specialty treat, traditional souvenirs, or get to admire a public performance.

7. Toledo

Toledo is the City of Three Cultures. Photo by elxeneize - stock.adobe.com.

Toledo is one of the cities considered most representative of Spanish culture. It is a favourite spot for culture explorers with the nickname “City of the Three Cultures”, which means Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

Toledo played an important role in history as a Roman colony, home of the Mozarab community, and then the political centre of Castile.

The city is filled with historical monuments like the Toledo Cathedral,  the Gothic Chapel of San Bartolomé, the grand Alcázar fortress, etc. There are many plazas, museums, and art pieces that you can see when walking around the cobblestone streets.

To inhale the wonderful historical vibe here, try out their artwork marzipan and buy a souvenir sword. The marzipans here are sold as a kind of daily snack and crafted in cute animal shapes, unlike anywhere else in Spain. As for the sword, Toledo has always been famous for it since the 1st century, so though it’s hard to bring home a full-size one, it’s an interesting present to make memories.

8. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela has a history closely related to religion. Photo by Andrés Vilas Álvarez - stock.adobe.com.

Santiago de Compostela is a city in the north-west of Spain, famous for its religious status. Since the 9th century, this place has been believed to be where the Jerusalem martyr apostle St.James was buried. 

The city is divided into 02 parts. The Old Town was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. And the New Town is filled with the breath of modern life. You can stay in the New Town to enjoy all the amenities but definitely spend lots of time visiting the Old Town.

The best place to visit in Spain is the city’s Plaza del Obradoiro. The famous Cathedral and the Pazo de Raxoi are all located here. You will see a lot of pilgrims in this square, all headed to the Cathedral.

Even if you are not a religious person, these places are worth a visit to understand more about what made the city’s history and to admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture.

Other than the square, there are other monasteries, museums, art galleries, etc., waiting for you. Walk around town, stop by local markets, and try the famous octopus that marked its name on the food map here.

9. Salamanca

Plaza Mayor is the core of Salamanca. Photo by dudlajzov - stock.adobe.com.

Salamanca is another great place to visit in Spain that was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage title. The city is known as the “Golden City”, famous for its architectural and religious heritage.

The Plaza Mayor is recommended as the first destination you should visit in this city. Located in the centre of Salamanca, Plaza Mayor is the core of the Old Town, assembling architecture in various styles like Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Baroque. There are many historical buildings to visit here, not to mention the archways filled with medallions of great men in history.

Another destination not to miss out is the two Cathedrals of Salamanca. The Old Cathedral was constructed in the 12th century in Romanesque style. The New Cathedral was built in the 15th century in the Gothic style. These two cathedrals are linked, so you can access one from the other. On the ground floor of the Old Cathedral, you can join a tour to access the highest part of both buildings.

After you finish your tour with those above, you can come to the University of Salamanca, the Casa de las Conchas, the Parque de la Alamedilla, Mercado Central, etc. The historical architecture to explore in Salamanca is endless. 

10. Córdoba

Cordoba is a lowkey destination full of historical and cultural wonders. Photo by Nicola - stock.adobe.com.

Córdoba is one of the best places to visit in Spain regarding history. Though not as famous as Seville or Granada, Córdoba is not inferior in terms of historical depth.

Through many political upheavals, the city flourished under the rule of the Romans, the Goths, and then the Muslims. It has now become a World Heritage site with the largest historical centre in Spain.

Still preserving the narrow streets' signature of the Moorish architecture, the city represents the cultural fusion of different cultures and religions. The number one attraction in the city is surely the Great Mosque, also known as the Mezquita of Cordoba.

Next will be the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress near the mosque. Other recommended destinations are the Roman Bridge, the Calahorra Tower, Plaza de la Corredera, and many more.

But don’t let the major historical sites in the Old Quarter of Cordoba make you forget to explore more. Take your time visiting Medina de Azahara, an archaeological site of the former capital of the Caliphate. Come to Cordoba Ecuestre to see one-of-a-kind horse shows. Or simply walking around to enjoy the colourful flowers blooming everywhere in the city.

Less crowded with tourists and slower with the flow of rich history, Cordoba is a perfect spot if you want to explore somewhere more low-key on your trip to Spain. If you want a little extra vibrancy, come when the city organises its World Heritage Festival in May.

Must-Visit Places In Spain For Foodies

Whether you’re a market wanderer, street food snacker, or fine-dining devotee, here are the top places in Spain every foodie should experience at least once:

11. San Sebastian

San Sebastian is considered the Food Capital of Spain. Photo by neirfy - stock.adobe.com.

Located on the border near France, San Sebastian is usually referred to as the “Food Capital of Spain”. The city has a prime geographical location with both the sea and the mountains, providing an endless source of fresh ingredients for every kind of taste bud.

If the gastronomy in San Sebastian can be described in one word, it would be “unlimited”. You can experience many different ways of enjoying good food here, from the Michelin restaurants to the local outstanding dining, from fresh seafood to wine and cider.

The first specialty here has to be tapas. San Sebastian invented a different kind of tapas that is served on a cocktail stick called pintxos. This invention later became a signature of Basque cuisine.

Other specialities that you should try are baked spider crab, hake koxkera, txuleta, torrija, etc. And though you might not buy anything, visiting the local markets to see the fresh and diverse ingredients might be an interesting experience.

12. Tudela

Tudela cuisine is famous for its fresh and diverse vegetables. Photo by larrui - stock.adobe.com.

Tudela is usually mentioned as a historical city famous for its culture and architecture. However, the cuisine is also a huge highlight if you want to visit this city. Located by the Ebro River, the fertility of Tudela has given it the reputation of being the place that grows the best vegetables in Navarra.

This city is basically heaven for vegetarians, as various fresh vegetables are grown all year round. Some of the most popular types are artichokes and asparagus.

There are also some unfamiliar types such as borage and cogollos lettuce. The abundance of greens set the base for the Tudela specialty dish called menestra, a dish that assembles artichoke, asparagus, peas, beans, and ham.

But the feast doesn’t stop there. Tudela still has many other dishes that are worth a try. Some examples are calderetes, carfareless, txistorra, etc. People here are devoted to good food, so you will surely have a distinguished experience in this land of the greens.

13. Bilbao

Explore Spain’s culinary creativity with Bilbao. Photo by saiko3p - stock.adobe.com.

Bilbao is the biggest city in the Basque Country. The city acts as an artistic centre, famous for its vibrant lifestyle and the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Like San Sebastian, Bilbao cuisine is also typical of Basque cuisine. But comparing the two cities, Bilbao seems to have a more traditional approach when it comes to food.

To start your food walking tour, Plaza Nueva should be the first destination. Built in the 19th century, this square has become the centre of the city’s social life. The place is surrounded by bars and restaurants, with signature combinations of pintxos to serve. One you should try is Grillo, a traditional flavour in Bilbao made of green lettuce, potato, and onion with a touch of olive oil and salt.

After getting a full belly of this Basque speciality, you can visit a wide range of family-owned restaurants to have a taste of many other special dishes. Don’t forget to also have a taste of wine, as Bilbao is known as the best place to visit in Spain for the finest wine.

An experience you shouldn’t leave out is visiting the Ribera Food Market. It is located in a building built in the 19th century, selling almost every cooking ingredient you can think of, from local to foreign origin. The best thing is that it also has bars and restaurants where they will cook the ingredients that you purchased.

14. Alicante

A beautiful place to visit in Spain for a day trip. Photo by marcin jucha - stock.adobe.com.

Alicante is a port city in southeastern Spain. The city is a typical image of Mediterranean cities with cerulean blue water and golden sand beaches. But when it comes to food, Alicante is worth being named one of the best places to visit in Spain.

The ingredient that plays a significant role in Alicante cuisine is rice. Having both an abundance of rice and fresh seafood, it is no surprise that the most typical dishes of Alicante are the perfect combination of these two ingredients. You can try out Arroz a banda (rice cooked with fish stock), Arroz negro con sepia y gambas (black rice with cuttlefish and prawns), etc.

Though you can be mesmerised by various combinations of rice and seafood, the grandeur of Alicante cuisine isn’t limited to these 02 ingredients. Saves your stomach for other specialities like pan de higo (dried fig paste), Turrón de Jijona (nougat with almond and honey), Olleta (chickpea soup with pork, potatoes, and black pudding), etc. 

The city was awarded the title Spanish Capital of Gastronomy 2025, so get your tummy ready before visiting this place!

15. Valencia

Valencia is the birthplace of paella. Photo by rh2010 - stock.adobe.com.

Valencia has never ceased to be one of the best places to visit in Spain, especially in March. Aside from the historical monuments and modern artistic architecture, Valencia is famous worldwide with the title the birthplace of paella. This city created one of the most signature Spanish dishes, but the wonders of its cuisine are much more.

The first dish you must try, of course, is still traditional Valencia paella. Different from other types of paella, the version in Valencia is cooked over an open fire using local ingredients like snails, rabbit, chicken, and green beans.

After having your fair share of the original taste, give other rice dishes a try. There are arroz del senyoret (rice with prawns), arroz negro (rice with cuttlefish ink), arroz al horno (rice with various types of meat), etc.

If you are not a fan of rice, Valencia still has plenty of local specialities to enjoy. As a Mediterranean city, the seafood in this city is phenomenal. Have a taste of clóchinas - a dish made of local mussels, all i pebre - hearty soup made of eel, esgarraet - stripped salted codfish and red peppers.

The list is endless. But save space in your stomach for the bunyols, a typical dessert in Valencia made of dough and pumpkin.

16. Mallorca

Mallorca culinary is based on the agricultural products that grow here. Photo by Dawid - stock.adobe.com.

Mallorca is the largest island of the Balearic Archipelago. Despite being in the middle of the sea, the core ingredient that makes Mallorca cuisine stand out is actually the agricultural products that grow on the island. 

The flavour of most dishes relies mostly on the freshness of the ingredients. For example, trampó, a simple salad made of peppers, onions, tomatoes, salt, and olive oil. Or tumbet, a dish combining fried aubergines, potatoes, tomatoes, and other vegetables that originated in the 16th century.

For meaty dishes, have a taste of botifarra negra or sobrassada. The first one is made of pork, blood, fennel seeds, and pine nuts. While the second one is a kind of spread sausage made of black pig and chilli. Both are signatures of Mallorca. 

For those who have a sweet tooth, ensaimada and rubiols will definitely be your favourite treats. They are popular traditional pastries in Mallorca. Made of sweetened dough, these two delights are filled with pumpkin jam, apricot jam, and other kinds of flavours.

Unmissable Places In Spain For Nature Explorers 

The country’s true magic often lies in the great outdoors. Grab your day hiking essentials and have the time of your life exploring these landmarks:

17. Tenerife

Tenerife is famous for Mount Teide. Photo by cegli - stock.adobe.com.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. The island is one of the few places in the world with black sand beaches. Having an impressive diversity of geology, Tenerife is definitely one of the best places to visit in Spain for those who love nature.

The most significant landmark of Tenerife is Mount Teide. The mountain peak is the highest summit in Spain and also the third-highest volcano in the world.

Surrounding Mount Teide are the desert and lush green forests, forming unique landforms compared to other volcanoes. Due to its values in archaeology and biology, Mount Teide was recognised as one of the World Heritage sites and also became a popular stargazing destination.

Though nature life in the Teide National Park is a wonder, don’t forget Tenerife also has wonderful beaches. Come to the black sand beaches to take a walk in the unique scenery, or visit the normal white sand beaches to enjoy the watersports.

18. Asturias

Asturias is usually called the natural paradise. Photo by JUAN CARLOS MUNOZ - stock.adobe.com.

Asturias is an autonomous community usually referred to as paraíso natural, which means natural paradise. This region is a hidden gem in the North of Spain with green valleys, crystal-clear beaches, majestic mountains, and thousands-years-old caves.

From this region, you can access the Picos de Europa National Park, the only inhabited National Park, which helps it preserve its natural state. Here, you can go hiking on 30 different routes, explore the Atlantic ecosystem, or enjoy the stunning views of meadows and lakes. Remember to grab a quality hiking backpack to make the most of your time here.

If you are not into mountains but beaches, Asturias can still offer lifetime memories with its rugged beaches. Most of the beaches here are vast with fine sand, clear water, and not too crowded.

Some are for swimming and watersports like Rodilles, Torimba, or Playa de Poo. Some are surrounded by rock cliffs that create a perfect spot for sightseeing, like Silencio. The options are endless, from hidden ones to common ones.

Remember to visit Tito Bustillo Cave. This place is considered one of the most remarkable discoveries of the century, with an extensive collection of Palaeolithic rock art from 10,000 years ago.

19. Beceite

Beceite is a peaceful city with wonderful nature. Photo by sanguer - stock.adobe.com.

Not a common choice to visit for tourists, Beceite is a place with a tranquil atmosphere and poetic landscapes. This city is the best place to visit in Spain for adventurers thanks to various hiking routes, an array of rivers that create natural pools, and one of the last domains of the Spanish goats.

Becite is most popular for long-distance routes that can satisfy any mountain climbers and bikers. Each trail leads through rocky terrains, lush green forests, or clear water ponds. You can even access waterfalls and basins along some trails, though only a few are allowed to swim in.

A must-visit destination in Beceite is El Parrizal, a natural habitat of the Spanish wild goat. This is a deep canyon with water pools halfway and scenic views. There is also a walking trail available here with an estimated 3,5 hours to finish. However, it will cost you €8 for a ticket to enter.

20. Jaén

Jaen has the largest protected natural spaces in Spain. Photo by Miguel Ángel RM - stock.adobe.com.

Jaén is in the Southern part of Spain, right in the middle of Granada and Córdoba. Overshadowed by other famous cities, it is usually not a designated destination for tourists in Andalucía. However, Jaén is one of the low-key best places to visit in Spain if you want to explore nature. 

The city has the largest area of protected natural spaces in Spain, with 4 Natural Parks, 3 Natural Areas, 2 Nature Reserves, 5 Natural Monuments, and 2 Periurban Parks.

The most well-known natural park in Jaén might be Parque Natural de las Sierras de Cazorla. This natural reserve is recognised by UNESCO as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Being the biggest protected area in Spain and the second largest one in Europe, the park has an impressive number of endemic and unique plant species. 

21. Lanzarote

Lanzarote is rustic with volcanoes. Photo by underworld - stock.adobe.com.

Lanzarote is called “The Island of 1,000 Volcanoes”. Also belongs to the Canary Archipelago, the diversity of terrains on this island is as impressive as the other neighbourhood islands. However, Lanzarote has a more unique untamned vibe.

The surface of Lanzarote is rugged due to scattered volcanoes, creating signature landscapes for the island.

The most popular attraction on the island is definitely the Timanfaya National Park. Formed by volcanic eruptions since the 1700s, the land area is covered in a rocky landscape and reddish colour. To explore the geology here, you must book a tour. So come in early to avoid the crowd.

The lava caves are also must-visit destinations. The most famous on the island are Jameos del Agua and Cueva de Los Verdes. Both are formed by the eruption of La Corona Volcano. However, Jameos del Agua was transformed into an art space with basalt rock sculptures, while Cueva de Los Verdes still preserves its vaults and lagoons since 4000 years ago.

To have a full overview of the natural wonders in Lanzarote, there are also the Cactus Garden, the remote La Graciosa island, cliffs, and beaches. Lanzarote even has an Atlantic Museum underwater. So plan about 3-4 days here to savour all of these exciting destinations.

All-Rounder Places To Visit In Spain

We save the best for last. Here’s your ultimate list of all-rounder spots in Spain that offers good food, culture, beaches, nature, nightlife, and adventure — all in one destination.

22. Barcelona

Barcelona has many interesting activities for easygoing travellers. Photo by marcorubino - stock.adobe.com.

For those who don’t have any specific preference, Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Spain. The city has a bit of everything, from the Mediterranean beaches and typical architecture to museums, galleries, buzzing nightlife and delicious cuisine.

You should plan your trip around a week here to fully enjoy the city. First, spend your days visiting the most popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia, the Casa Batlló, or the La Pedrera. All of these attractions are designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, representing the masterpiece in aesthetic and architectural value.

Visiting the Gothic Quarter or the Olympic Village is not a bad choice to continue your trip in the city. But if you want a taste of the beach, head to the outer skirt of the city to visit the 5km swimmable shore. There are 10 different beaches for you to choose from, whether you prefer a peaceful vibe, a family-friendly one, or a nude beach.

Barcelona also has many art galleries displaying works by famous artists. The culinary delights here varied from local stalls and food markets to fine dining restaurants. The options are limitless. Especially for the Barca fans, the city offers access to many iconic destinations in the history of developing the club, along with souvenirs that you can’t find elsewhere.

23. Madrid

Madrid has many things to offer, from historical monuments to exciting festivals. Photo by Andrés García - stock.adobe.com.

Did you know first Madrid is the first historic urban landscape that became a World Heritage Site in Europe? This is all thanks to an area called “Landscapes of Light”.

This area surrounds Paseo del Prado Avenue, Buen Retiro Park, and Jerónimos neighbourhood. The landscape is a combination of museums, botanical gardens, and historical monuments. You can spend days wandering here and never get bored.

However, the charm of Madrid isn’t limited to that. This is one of the best places to visit in Spain due to its diversity. You can hop from one attraction to another, come to a Zarzuela show, enjoy a flamenco performance at the world’s first flamenco theatre, admire the world-famous art pieces, or have a meal at a 300-year-old restaurant, etc.

24. Ibiza

Besides the famous nightlife, Ibiza also has beautiful beaches and valuable history. Photo by Tolo - stock.adobe.com.

The reputation of Ibiza is often related to blissful parties and active nightlife. This city is the definition of hedonism. Family-friendly? Not so much. But if you want to escape from all the stress and be laid-back, Ibiza is the place.

In the morning, you can go to the beaches or visit the historical monuments. Though it might seem like a modern-core city, Ibiza actually has an Old Town recognised as a World Heritage Site.

Pass the walls of Dalt Vila, you will enter a world of cobblestone streets. Ramparts, bastions, watchtowers, statues, and architecture here have all been preserved perfectly since they were constructed in the Renaissance. 

After having fun in the crystal-clear water, buying bohemian souvenirs from the hippie markets, and immersing yourself in rich history, it's time to get ready for the night.

Join the crowds in various nightclubs and lose yourself in the rhythm. The party culture in Ibiza is said to be very distinguished. It doesn’t require anything unconventional but just blend in and feel the music, letting the joyful atmosphere blow you away.

25. Málaga

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Malaga hid many things to explore. Photo by Juan Pedro Peña - stock.adobe.com.

Malaga is a city where history and art reign. The city is known for being one of the oldest cities in the world and the hometown of Picasso. Years of historical, architecture imbued with cultural and artistic values, adding a touch of modern creativity, have created the irresistible charm of Malaga.

This list of historical destinations in Malaga is grandiose. The two most popular ones you should prioritise are the Alcazaba de Málaga and the Roman Theatre located at the foot of it.

These buildings are the oldest architecture here. They are the signature of the impact of the Moorish and Romans on the history of the city, with marble pillars and horseshoe arches.

If you are more into nature than history, Malaga has beaches and botanical gardens ready for you. The city owns 16 beaches full of sunshine, each has golden sand, turquoise water, and seafront promenades.

Take a dive into the water and then come back to explore the beauty of the ground by visiting Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción. This place was built in the 19th century and is where having the largest collection of subtropical plants in Europe.

For those who want to experience something more challenging, the Caminito del Rey is waiting for you to conquer. Hikers on this path will get to walk 7,7km long while hanging over 100m on a cliff. You will have a spectacular view from above of the Guadalhorce River, valleys, canyons and unique species.

And make time to visit art museums here. Some will tell you more about the greatness of Picasso, some have signature pieces of Andalusia since the 19th century, while some display contemporary artworks from around the world. Grabbing a taste of wine and traditional cuisine while staying here is also highly recommended.

The Wonders Are Yours To Explore…

Above is a list of the best places to visit in Spain for each type of traveller. But it doesn’t mean that each city is only suitable for such a type of tourism. Those are only the core highlights that make the city stand out. How exciting that destination is depends entirely on you to decide. And when you're hopping from coastlines to cathedrals, markets to mountain towns, having the right backpack makes all the difference. A reliable, lightweight CabinZero backpack keeps your essentials close and your hands free. Explore the full range here.

Claire Thuc