Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and for a good reason. From north to south, you have options for hiking, beach days, UNESCO heritage sites, charming medieval villages, gastronomy, and more. If you're heading to this cultural goldmine, discover the answers to the most common FAQs—including how to get around, what to eat, how much to tip, etc.
The best mid-range boutique hotels in Málaga are some of our favorite properties, as they offer perks you might expect to find at higher-tier properties. Enjoy central locations and amenities like onsite eateries, rooftop terraces with pools, and/or rooms with private balconies and soaking tubs.
With over 80 beaches and some of the most idyllic coastlines in the Balearic Islands, Menorca is an excellent place for a beachfront hotel. Staying near the coast makes it easy to enjoy the seaside and water sports, but it also offers a quieter experience away from the cities, so you can truly immerse yourself in the island's relaxed, natural vibe.
Valencia is a Mediterranean city with a legacy as rich as Barcelona. Its historic Old Town is a walkable area whose highlights, like the Valencia Cathedral and Quart Towers, you can see on a day trip. With more than 24 hours, there are beaches and paella food tours you can indulge in. And in five days you can do all of the above plus visit can't-miss attractions like the famous aquarium at the City of Arts and Sciences.
For most travelers, 6 to 9 days is the perfect amount of time for a Spain trip with stops in both Barcelona and Madrid. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as about 5 days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop, or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Seville, Valencia, or Córdoba. See more ideas for Barcelona and Madrid itineraries below.
Some of the best historic luxury hotels in Seville are the city's top properties. You can stay in old palaces commissioned by the king or elegantly preserved buildings from the Middle Ages with unique historical elements. With such fascinating history, Seville allows you to experience it day and night in posh accommodation with cushy perks.
Córdoba's historic core has four different UNESCO World Heritage, one being the neighborhood around the Mezquita-Catedral. To make the most of your stay, you can opt for one of the best historic hotels in Córdoba in that same district, making it easy to explore all of the city's sites.
Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting both Barcelona and Valencia, especially when also including Madrid. For travelers wanting to visit Barcelona and Valencia exclusively, plan six to eight days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four or five days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Barcelona and Valencia, and beyond.
It's no surprise that the Balearic Islands offer some truly indulgent properties, but Menorca adds historic and authentic charm to its five-star hotels. So though you can enjoy all the posh perks like outdoor pools, spas, beachfront locations, and rooms with private pools, the below top picks also stay true to the rustic island vibes.
Most travelers will find that nine to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Spain trip with stops in Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Valencia. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five to eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Granada, Málaga, or Córdoba. Keep reading for more inspiring Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Valencia itineraries.