City holiday ideas in Spain

City holiday ideas in Spain

For many people it’s time to start thinking about your summer break. It may be a longer trip away or it may be a long weekend. No matter the length of the stay Spain offers a range of interesting cities that can provide anything from museums to beaches to historic sites. What interests you?

Madrid

Madrid the national capital is the largest Spanish city. Home to a collection of world class museums.  Ranging from the Prado museum to the Thyssen to the Reina Sofia . Those three would represent a wealth of art in any other  city but Madrid has even more for those wanting to spend the time.

Madrid being a capital city is more then museums. It hosts the Royal palace. The first Wednesday of most months  you can watch the formal changing of the guard. An event that attracts large crowds.

Changing of the guard

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More then museums

But Madrid is more then museums. There is the Temple of Debod and Egyptian temple.

Valencia

Valencia the birthplace of paella is a large coastal city.  The third largest Spanish city. It’s historic centre relatively compact and very walkable. There are beaches just outside of the city limits . Whether you go the central market, City of Arts and Sciences, Plaza de la Virgen, Barrio del Carmen or if you just wander the city you’ll find plenty to see.

Valencia beaches

Granada

Granada is best known for the Alhambra. Alhambra tickets You should buy your tickets for the Alhambra well in advance to avoid any disappointment. It’s not unknown for tickets to sell out . Granada on it’s own if fairly compact and great for a short trip.

Seville

Seville home of the Alcázar ,Flamenco, Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, tapas  and Plaza de España is a true gem. Rarely receiving the attention it truly deserves but managing to outshine many more publicized European cities.

The Alcázar doesn’t get the attention of the Alhambra but for me it’s no less interesting. A site you can spend all morning visiting and wish you had longer.

Plaza de toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla is an iconic bullring. On days without events you can tour the museum and the ring. If you’re a photographer bring your widest lens. The colours of the ring are truly memorable.

Plaza de España built in 1929 is a delight for the eyes. The hardest part is remembering it isn’t even one hundred years old.

Barcelona

Last but not least Barcelona my favorite. All the previous cities are worth your time but Barcelona has a special feel to it. You can just wander the beach promenade, or visit the many city markets, or rub shoulder to shoulder down the Ramblas or just get lost in the gothic quarter.  Barcelona provides it all for you.

Barcelona is Spain’s second largest city. Capital of the Catalan region. Well served by air. Train links both with in Spain but also to France.

Barcelona just is. It doesn’t try to impress you because it doesn’t need to. Many just feel at home the moment they arrive.

city holiday ideas in spain

I hope you’ve seen a bit of the range that Spain can provide. It doesn’t matter if your trip is short or long Spain is able to offer you a wide choice.

Sagrada Familia is a world famous cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudí. You will want to prebook tickets for your visit. Failing to book tickets will leave you standing in a line that can impress with it’s sheer length.