Spain

Overview

One of the top tourist destinations in the world, Spain has been and is one of the most prominent cultural centres in Europe. This is a country that can please anyone and everyone - history and art lovers, fashionistas and party-goers, gourmets and wine connoisseurs. It is amazing how different Spain is - if you travel from the north to the south of the country, you will be amazed at how different everything is - language, culture, climate, landscape, people. Either you are going to one of the big cities or a quite village, one of the best ways to experience the country is to stay in one of many charming holiday homes or a modern holiday apartments in Spain. 

Top holiday destinations

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most impressive cities in Europe, a capital of Catalonia with a population of around 2 million people, it is a true cosmopolitan and modern city. It is an old historic city that grew to be the trendiest and most modern city in Spain. It is a pulsating city that has so much to offer. You could start a day with a swim in the warm Mediterranean sea, eat seafood paella for lunch, do sightseeing during the day and choose one of the great restaurants and night clubs for the night.

One of the distinguishing features of Barcelona is its architecture. Genial architect Antoní Gaudí marked Barcelona with his masterpieces of architecture that attracts millions of tourists every year. One of the most famous are Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà, Park Güell.  

Barcelona isn’t an expensive city for entertainment, but the hotel accommodation is quite pricey. If you're visiting Barcelona for more than a night, try renting a holiday apartment rather than paying high prices for a small hotel room. 

Madrid

Madrid has been Spanish capital since 1562 and is located in the centre of the country. It is a big metropolis with the population of almost 6 million. It is a centre for culture and art with Prado Museum being one of the top tourist destinations. But Madrid also has a reputation of “the city that never sleeps” and unlike many cities, it’s not only young people that don’t sleep. You can see people of all ages all night long, going from bar to bar, eating, dancing and talking!

Other Spanish cities

Spain has many more exciting cities that has a lot to offer. Try visiting Seville, Malaga, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Valencia and of course one of the cities on the islands. 

Spanish regions 

Spain like no other country in Europe has very distinctive regions. It is like many countries in one. Each region will surprise you with its diversity and no matter where you will go, an unforgettable and joyful experience is guaranteed. But don't try to do too much in one trip. The best option is to pick one region, rent a local house or apartment and explore the region by doing  day trips. 

There are 17 autonomous communities in Spain, here are some highlights. Visit any of the following regions and you will experience each their own local traditions, styles and produce.

• Andalusia - is probably the most popular region due to Costa del Sol and its perfect climate. The region is a cradle of history and culture and home to such prominent classical painters as Velázquez and Murillo and modern painter Picasso. Andalusia’s capital Seville is one of the most impressive Spanish cities featuring the cathedral of Seville - the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

• Catalonia - situated in the north-east of the country, on the Mediterranean coast. It is famous for its capital Barcelona, beautiful and clean beaches of Costa Brava, its architecture, cuisine and of course - football.

• Basque country  - situated on the north, it is the most different region of the country. It has a wide autonomy with its own government and language that is very different to Spanish. Bilbao is the capital of the region and is a great mixture of history and modernism. It boasts with Guggenheim Museum which attracts many tourists every year. 

• Canary Islands - is a Spanish tropical paradise. Ideal weather all year round, stunning landscapes, clean beaches and possibility to do any type of sport are the main attractions to the islands. Geographical proximity to Africa influenced many aspects of life on Canary Islands. When visiting for longer than a day the option of renting one of the villas in Spain or one of the holiday villas on Mallorca or Canary Islands is worth of serious consideration.

Wine regions

The main wine region of Spain is Rioja which produces mature red wine as well as white wine. Galicia is the produce of exceptional white wine, while Catalonia is famous for its sparkling wine and Cava. 

When to go

The best months for visiting Spain is May, June and September, as well as April and October for visiting south of Spain. Canary Islands offer a perfect weather all year round. If you wish to experience a real holiday atmosphere, visit Spain during Semana Santa (a week before Easter Sunday). Keep in mind that many holiday villas in Spain as well as holiday rentals on Mallorca and other islands should be booked well in advance for Semana Santa.