Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in Spain in 2024 | Beginner’s Guide

Planning a trip to Spain can be overwhelming. So many cities, so little time. Where do I start? Madrid? Barcelona? Seville? The choices seem endless.

I used to spend hours scrolling through travel blogs. My head would spin with conflicting advice. Friends would chime in with their suggestions. It left me feeling stressed and indecisive.

The fear of missing out on the best experiences haunted me. What if I chose the wrong cities? What if I wasted my precious vacation time?

But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be this way. I’ve done the legwork for you. In this article, I’ll share the absolute best cities to visit in Spain. No more guesswork. No more stress. Just a curated list of Spain’s urban gems, waiting for you to explore.

Where to Go in Spain For First-Time Visitors

As a first-time visitor to Spain, I felt lost. The country seemed like a vast puzzle. Where should I start? Which cities were worth my time?

As a first-time visitor to Spain, I’d recommend focusing on these key cities:

• Barcelona: Known for Gaudí’s architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.
• Madrid: The capital city offers world-class museums, grand plazas, and lively nightlife.
• Seville: Experience flamenco, stunning Moorish architecture, and delicious tapas.
• Granada: Home to the magnificent Alhambra palace and charming Albaicín neighborhood.

I suggest spending 2-3 days in each city to get a good feel for their unique characters. Start in Barcelona or Madrid, then take the high-speed train south to Andalusia for Seville and Granada. 

This route offers a nice mix of Spain’s diverse regions and cultures. Don’t try to cram in too much – leave some time to wander and soak up the atmosphere in each place.

Wait for the rest of the article, you’ll discover the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern excitement. We’ll explore Spain’s rich cultural heritage in its vibrant urban settings.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Spain?

In my experience, the best time to visit Spain is during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (60-77°F), perfect for exploring cities and outdoor activities. You’ll also encounter fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the busy summer months.

If you’re on a budget, consider traveling in winter (November to February), when prices are lowest. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and some rain. Summer (June to August) offers great beach weather but expect large crowds and higher prices.

My Advice: Book popular attractions like the Alhambra in Granada or Sagrada Familia in Barcelona well in advance, especially if visiting during peak seasons.

What is Spain’s weather like year round?

Spain’s weather varies across regions, but it’s generally pleasant throughout the year. I’ve found that coastal areas like Barcelona and Valencia enjoy mild winters and warm summers. Inland cities like Madrid can be quite hot in summer and chilly in winter. Here’s a quick overview:

Spring (March-May): Comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.

Summer (June-August): Hot and sunny, ideal for beach vacations.

Fall (September-November): Mild and pleasant, great for outdoor activities.

Winter (December-February): Cool in most areas, with snow in mountainous regions.

Southern cities like Seville and Malaga boast warm weather almost year-round. Northern coastal towns like San Sebastian have more rainfall but stay relatively mild. 

Pro Tips: When planning your trip, consider the weather in the specific cities you want to visit. I always pack layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day, especially in spring and fall.

Top 5 Best Cities to Visit in Spain for First-Time Visitors

Spain could be an impressive country for first-time visitors to visit. I’m going to present you with an insider’s experience of the best 5 Spanish cities to explore. 

Here you come across a comprehensive guide ranging from marvelous Madrid to historical Barcelona to cultural Sevilla and other stunning cities.

1) Barcelona: Where Modernism Meets Tradition

The city of Barcelona has versatile wings of amenities and legacy. The diversity must catch your eyes by surprise and bring delight to your soul. The Mediterranian shore denotes the past glories and the modern accomplishments that the city experienced. 

Keep reading the article and learn what Barcelona has to offer about the Spanish Culture and history. 

Must See Tourist Attractions When You’re In Barcelona

UNESCO recognizes the Spanish architectural marbles for a reason. The Catalan wonders of architecture will fill your eyes and your mind. The 3 must-see tourist attractions in Barcelona you can explore are described below. 

i) Park Guell

The park is a place where Spanish culture, nature, modernism, global culture, and ancient architecture coexist side by side. The weather in this dreamland is usually neither too hot nor too cold in the peak season. 

Tickets to the Park are likely to sell out. So, make sure you book a Park Guell reserved access tour. 

Therefore, I advise you to choose Park Guell as a place to spend your vacation in Spain.

ii) La Sagrada Familia

In my experience, La Sagrada Familia is a Spanish landmark that fulfils your Barcelona tour. The beams of sunlight create a celestial ambience around the building. 

The multiple towers in the monument allude to biblical stories about Jesus. George Orwell and Salvador Dali have a connection with it because they made influential comments on it.

To know the critical history, it is advisable to secure a Sagrada Familia reserved access tour from a reseller if you miss out on tickets.

iii) Casa Batlló

The only word that can define the monuments is Utopia. Modernist Spanish architecture is blended with different colours and royal majesty.

If you have ever read Kubla Khan by S.T. Coleridge, you may have connected the real-time atmosphere with the imaginary kingdom. Now, let’s focus on the widespread public places and hidden gems in Barcelona.

La Rambla: Strolling on the La Rambla is an indispensable part of vacation in Spain. It would not be an overstatement if I say that this place is a little world.

From street artists to flower markets to Asian drawings and architecture to the memory of Alexander Fleming and the secret of past prostitution, all are nestled here. 

Gothic Quarter and El Born: These two neighbourhoods of Barcelona are truly among the Spanish hidden gems. Upon exploring them, you will educate yourself about the ancient Roman temples and architecture.

The Gothic Quarter is the place where the famous painter Pablo Picasso lived for a long time and got insights into his artwork. 

The Best Time to Visit Barcelona for First-Time Visitors

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the most favourable times for first-time visitors. The moderate weather allows you to see and know the sites extensively.  

When is the worst time to visit in Barcelona?

During Winter and Summer. The unfavourable weather during Winter and Summer may prevent you from exploring in peace. 

2. Madrid: The Royal Capital of Spain

The first thing that hits our brain when we think of Spain is the Bullfighting. Spanish guitar and Flamenco dance are also associations of Spanish rhetoric. Madrid has it all! 

What Are Some Interesting Spots To See And Things To Do In Madrid

Madrid is all set up to present you with an adventurous and insightful trip. Plan a tour and make sure you are present in these Spanish visiting spots in Madrid.

The Royal Palace

The official residence of the Spanish King is one of the most fabulous palaces in Europe. It captivates the visitors with the treasure of middle-aged architecture and political history.

The palace made me fall in love with it inside-out on my first-ever visit. For your information, the official website may sell out tickets. I recommend securing a fast-access admission ticket for your visit.

Plaza Mayor

This wide open space is an artistic depiction of the Spanish empire. Also, you get to know the aesthetics of bullfighting from the bull bars.

This place once upon a time hosted bullfighting. So, show up at the Plaza Mayor and enlighten yourself with the art of bullfighting.

The Almudena Cathedral

The Almudena Cathedral teaches you that Madrid is the cauldron where different religions blend. The catholic church is engraved with multiple sculptures. They represent the religious norms that dominated Spain in the olden days.

However, the age-old museums in Madrid are worthy to take note of. 

Museums and art

If you want to learn about the Spain cities for art lovers, Madrid is best for you. You come across a variety of tour options ranging from museums, arts, and modern urban settings. 

The Prado Museum

The 200-year-old museum in central Madrid has been a key figure in developing Spanish history and art. The portraits and paintings here evoke diverse territories of human consciousness. An all-day entrance ticket allows you to stand face-to-face with the collections.

Reina Sofia

This Museum is a storehouse of over 4,000 paintings, 1400 sculptures, 2800 photographs, and many drawings and sketches. Most importantly, the world-famous Guernica of Pablo Picasso nests here. 

Retiro Park: 

This is a large open-sky resting place. The Retire Park is adorned with various facilities like a rowing boat, a Yoga corner, a huge greenhouse, and an affiliated museum. 

Food And Drink To Try In Madrid

Madrid is one of the prominent Spain cities with the best food. The city offers foods that are unique in every detail.

Churro dipping in Spanish hot chocolate is the most delicious and popular food item in Madrid. El Riojano gives you a luscious taste of sweets.

Gambas Alaho fills up your appetite for a light snack with a prawn dish. Spanish Tortilla in the place called Juana La Loka prepares Secreto Iberico with beef inside. 

Know The Tips Before You Go To Madrid

Plan your visit either in Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) to get pleasant weather. 

3. Seville: The Heart of Andalusian Culture

Are you looking for the Spain cities for culture enthusiasts? Seville is renowned as a city of cultural heritage. Seville is a must-visit city for lovers of sophism, mysticism, and spirituality. It’s one of the best cities to visit in Spain.

Seville: What To Do There?

The illustrious city of Seville is so diverse and overwhelming that you are going to have to set a detailed roadmap. The essential information about your visit to Seville is given below.

Landmarks: 

Seville Cathedral: Among many catholic churches in Seville, the Seville Cathedral is the epicenter of all. First Muslim empire used it as a mosque, and then Christians restored and remodelled it in catholic design. 

The minor details of its edifice impressed me the most. You will learn about gothic aspects of this catholic church when you go through it. 

Real Alcázar: This palace is an example of the Islamic empire in Seville. Yet, the compound has a mixture of Spanish, Roman, and Arabian architecture.

The polished stone marble, the ornate ceilings, and the large garden with peacocks feel surreal. However, it is time to shift our focus to the legacy of festivals in Spain.

Third-party vendors ensure entry with a guided tour of the sites I mentioned above.

Flamenco culture and local festivals

Flamenco is one of Spain’s key symbols. This is more like a mode of communication than a mere dance performance. According to my experience at a show in Tablaos, the audience must align with the rhythm and melody that the performer maintains. 

I recommend you visit Triana to learn about the history of Flamenco. This neighbourhood produced the gems of this art. Moreover, it would be best if you kept the local festivals in your to-do list. 

Semana Santa: This week-long religious festival occurs once a year. Statues of Jesus and Mary are brought down in the vicinity of visitors. A Grand parade in the street mourns the miserable state of Jesus and Mary.

Feria de Abril: The April or Spring fair shows up with a vibrant and colourful atmosphere everywhere. This is most suitable for couples to hang around and enjoy the music and dances. That said, you can eat some popular food items when you are done with the fair. 

Salmorejo and Tortilla Española: You can relish maximum pleasure from these Spanish food items. Many restaurants make savoury Andalusian tapas. 

What you need to know before visiting Seville

The best time to visit Sevilla is from March to May. You can witness the major celebrations and festivals in this month. You will get to enjoy the festivals and the beautiful flowers in roadside trees.

4. Granada: History Wrapped in Moorish Architecture

Granada is advisable for Spanish History lovers. It’s one of the Off-the-beaten-path cities in Spain. Below, I have provided notes on the must-visit attractions in Granada.

Alhambra Palace: The palace carries the marks of Muslim rule in Granada. It was once used to be a royal palace for the Muslim Nasrid Dynasty.  It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site now (obviously).  

Are you looking for hidden gems in Spain? The palace possesses them with many secret underground tunnels, alleys, and staircases. In my opinion, now it’s a part of Spanish adventures. Therefore, you should book a direct access tour ticket as early as possible. 

Albaicín neighbourhood: The former Moorish quarter is a pleasant place to stroll. You will get Arabian products in the shops on different narrow streets. Secure a sip of  Moroccan tea. I have developed a great fondness for the neighbourhood. 

The best time to visit Granada for First-Time Visitors

As an experienced visitor to Granada, I would say it’s the May-June timespan when the city remains most tourist-friendly. You will get to participate in the local festival called Feria del Corpus Cristi. 

When is the worst time to visit Granada?

July and August would be unsuitable for visiting the iconic places in Granada. The temperature hits 40-42 degrees Celsius. You can also spend time at the beaches. 

5. Valencia: A Blend of Beach and Futuristic Design

Valencia ranks top when you search Spain cities with the best beaches on Google. It gets sunlight almost every day of the year. If you have a fondness for outdoor activities, I suggest you visit Valencia. 

What To Do When You’re In Valencia

Along with modern elements, Valencia has invaluable historic assets. Let’s learn what the city has to offer. 

Arts and Sciences: The National Museum of Fine Arts nests at the city’s heart. Also, the Museum of Ceramics and Arts stores ancient jewellery and glassware.

The oceanarium is a unique wonder of modern Valencia. I felt like time-traveling to the future when I was exploring it inside out. I suggest you book a ticket for this marvellous site. Secure an oceanographic and science museum combo ticket before it is sold out.

Beaches: Famous beaches like Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa provide spacious areas for visitors to relax. Restaurants and motels are adjacent to beaches for your convenience. 

Historic core: La Lonja is a UNESCO World Heritage attraction. The monumental building feels gothic and evocative at the same time.  It’s worth a visit.

Mercado Central, or the old central market, is a vast place providing household necessities. Surprisingly, it has no stairs. Everything is under one roof, making it a refined and polished spot.  

Hidden gem: The lesser-known Albuhera Park offers a pristine environment. Unlike the artificial wonders of Valencia city, the park allows you to explore local flora and fauna. 

Must Know Tips Before Visiting Valencia

Try to rent a hotel room in nearby neighbourhoods instead of the city centre. It would save you money and give you quiet surroundings. 

Well, what is the best time to visit Valencia? I would suggest you come in April-June.  

Though different months offer different vibes, April-June is the most appropriate time to enjoy Valencia to the fullest. 

Underrated Spanish Cities for Travelers

Toledo comes first when I begin with the underrated cities in Spain. Iconic places like Mirado dek Velle, Plaza Zocodover, and Saint Martin Bridge instantly grab visitors’ attention and fill their hearts with vibrancy. 

Secondly, Cordoba is mostly famous for its narrow, beautiful passages and its classic Spanish foods. You can relish “Jamon Iberico” (Pork slices) and other foods produced by rural farmers. 

Thirdly, Girona is a city where visitors are welcomed by medieval architecture. The Santa Maria Cathedral feels gothic, and the city wall bears the marks of Roman ruins. 

What are the Best Cities in Spain by the Sea?

Spain has a lot to offer to the sea lovers. The top coastal cities to visit are:

Malaga is one of the top Spanish cities for sea lovers. The  Bioparc Fuengirola shows and educates visitors about the animal kingdom. El Castillo del Givralfaro offers a treat to the eyes. The marine landscape mixes with the city. 

San Sebastian is a gateway to the Atlantic. This is a top place for holiday-making because the beach, city life, and food come together. On top of that, you have the facility to rent an electric bike and roam around. The hilltops are splendid to look at. 

Cities to Explore to Know Spain’s Rich Past

Salamanca is located in the northwest of Madrid. You will discover the monuments of legendary figures in the city. For instance, Christopher Columbus stayed here, and the city kept his sculpture.

Another example of the city’s rich past is the oldest university in Spain. The Spanish Renaissance philosopher Francisco de Victoria came from this city. 

Santiago de Compostela is a major Christian pilgrimage and the epicentre of St. James, who was a disciple of Jesus Christ. This site teaches you about the political strife of the people of the Gacilia region for autonomy.

Practical tips for visiting multiple Spanish cities

When planning a trip to explore the best cities to visit in Spain, I’ve found a few key strategies helpful:

1. Get a Eurail pass for easy train travel between major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. It’s much more convenient than flying or driving.

2. Book accommodations near city centres or public transit stops to maximize sightseeing time.

3. Look for free walking tours offered in most Spanish cities. They’re a great way to get oriented and learn about the history and culture.

4. Try local specialities in each place, like paella in Valencia or pintxos in San Sebastian.

5. Buy a local SIM card for your phone. It’s handy for navigation and looking up information on the go.

I try not to cram too many cities into one trip. Spending at least 2-3 days in each place allows time to really soak in the atmosphere and see the main sights without feeling rushed. With some planning, it’s possible to experience several of Spain’s incredible cities in one memorable vacation.

Transportation options and recommendations

When exploring the best cities to visit in Spain, getting around efficiently is key. I’ve found that major cities like Madrid and Barcelona have excellent public transportation systems, including metros and buses. 

For intercity travel, Spain’s high-speed rail network, AVE, is fast and comfortable. In smaller cities, walking or renting a bike can be a great way to soak in the atmosphere.

Taxis are readily available, but ride-sharing apps like Uber are only present in some cities. If you’re planning to visit multiple regions, renting a car can provide flexibility, especially for reaching coastal towns or rural areas. 

However, be prepared for limited parking in city centres. I recommend using a mix of transportation options to make the most of your Spanish adventure.

Budget-friendly tips for exploring Spanish cities

When visiting the best cities in Spain, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing experiences. I’ve found that walking is often the best way to explore, especially in smaller cities like Seville or Granada. 

For longer distances, public transportation is affordable and efficient. To save on accommodations, consider staying in hostels or budget-friendly Airbnb. Many cities offer free walking tours, which are great for orientation and local insights.

Take advantage of free museum hours and attractions, like Barcelona’s El Born Centre or Seville’s nightly flamenco shows. For meals, try local markets or cook some of your own food. By following these tips, you can enjoy Spain’s vibrant cities without breaking the bank.

Immersing in Spanish Culture: Urban Experiences Not to Miss

Attending Flamenco shows in Valencia or Granada is a must-do activity in Spain. You can join the show in real-time and immerse yourself in the rich Spanish cultural heritage. Remember to book for a show.

La Tomatino is one of the popular festivals in Spain. The fest takes place in Valencia in August.

Last but not least, the Spanish festival is the Jerez Horse Fair. The beautiful horse exhibition in Andalucia uplifts the charms of the fest. 

Conclusion

In this article, I’ve tried to touch on the most beautiful cities in Spain. Spanish city history lovers will find insights from this article. Knowledge of museums in Madrid will be of huge significance for art lovers.

Barcelona is sufficient for travelling with a content mind. It shows you the wonders of Spanish architecture. Along with Spanish attractions, love provided tips on how to save your costs in Spain.

Practical suggestions for covering various sites will help you make the most of the visit. Hidden gems of Spain are scarcely visited. So, now that you are knowledgeable about them, you are free to explore. 

I’m sure this article will fulfill your yearning to know the best cities to visit in Spain. Stay tuned with me and leave a comment to fuel my zeal for writing. 

FAQ: Best Cities to Visit in Spain

Which Spanish city is best for art lovers?

Madrid is ideal for art enthusiasts. The city’s Golden Triangle of Art includes world-renowned museums like the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, showcasing masterpieces from various periods and styles.

What’s the best coastal city to visit in Spain?

San Sebastián is a top choice for coastal charm. It offers stunning beaches and a picturesque old town and is famous for its pintxos (Basque tapas) culture, making it perfect for food lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Which Spanish city is best for architecture buffs?

Barcelona is a must-visit for architecture fans. The city is home to numerous works by Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló, showcasing unique Modernist designs.

What’s a great Spanish city for history enthusiasts?

Toledo is an excellent choice for history buffs. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” it boasts a rich heritage with well-preserved medieval architecture, historic synagogues, mosques, and churches.

Which Spanish city offers the best nightlife experience?

Madrid takes the crown for nightlife. The capital city is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to all tastes, from traditional flamenco shows to modern nightclubs.