15 Best Cities to Visit in Spain + MAP

When it pertains to Spanish cities, you’ll discover no deficiency of small towns, coastal hamlets, modernist cities, and medieval villages. It entirely depends on your preferences, but of all the best cities to visit in Spain, I understand you’ll love no less than one of them.

Due to its rich heritage, you can explore some truly beautiful cities across Spain. In this guide, I will showcase a selection of the country`s best cities that are surely worth visiting at least once. The monuments, museums, cuisine, and people of these locations will not disappoint.

You’ll also see that one of the greatest attractions of this country is the number of gorgeous cities, so keep reading to see which ones I recommend you explore!

1. Madrid, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain

Clearly, Madrid is one of the ideal urban areas of Spain to visit, and it offers such a great amount of social and authentic legacy.

To be certain not to overlook anything, I`ve written a comprehensive guide on things to experience in Madrid, which you can check out here: things to do in Madrid. It`s easy to spend hours wandering aimlessly in this city, though this no-cost tour is a good place to commence!

When I lived in Madrid, one of my favorite activities was to walk to the Royal Palace; it’s among the largest in Spain and all of Europe. To learn more regarding the secrets and history of the Spanish royals, do this guided tour, which takes you through the palace’s halls and gardens. Then, go to the Temple ofDebod, a 2^nd-century Egyptian temple in the center of Madrid!

Another treasure in this Spanish city is the Prado Museum, the most visited museum in Spain, and one of the most important globally. Since opening in 1819, the Prado has attracted thousands upon thousands of people who long to see masterworks like Velázquez’sLas Meninas, Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights, and Goya’sBlack Paintings. If you go, I suggest booking an advance ticket so you can avoid the long queues.

Some other must-dos in Madrid involve leisurely strolling through the botanical gardens of Retiro Park, exploring the prominent thoroughfare of Gran Vía and bustling central square of Puerta del Sol, enjoying a calamari sandwich at the historic plaza of Plaza Mayor, partaking in tapas tastings in the neighborhood of La Latina (especially on Sundays), and socializing at bars in Malasaña, Madrid`s liveliest nightlife district. Additionally, soccer fans can take a tour of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, widely considered the most impressive sports facility globally.

• Recommended lodging: The Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a romantic hotel within a 19th-century palace with decor and private gardens inspired by the renowned paintings of Velázquez.

2. Seville, one of the best cities to visit in Spain

Seville is another top Spanish city, and one of the best places to visit in Spain. Its beautiful Giralda is a majestic tower that was originally built during the Almohad period, which crowns the 800-year-old Cathedral. Together with the Real Alcázar and the Cathedral of Santa María de laSede, they are among the most significant monuments in the city. To see them yourself and learn more about their history, do this guided tour.

Additionally, the Plaza de España is one of the most symbolic places in the country and distinguishes Seville among the best cities to visit in Spain. I recommend taking this free tour to see this plaza, the Church of the Divine Savior, Plaza Nueva, Puerta de Jerez, and the Royal Tobacco Factory.

Finally, one cannot leave without visiting the Triana neighborhood, central to Sevillian culture and a nursery of singers, dancers, and artisans. The significance will be clear when witnessing an incredible flamenco performance such as this one. One may also take this boat trip down the Guadalquivir River, a romantic activity while discovering the magic of this city.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at the prestigious Hotel Las Casas de la Judería in the Santa Cruz neighborhood. The resort features traditionally-styled décor, a rooftop pool, a spa, and several Andalusian courtyards.

3. Barcelona, one of the most popular cities in Spain

Barcelona is globally identified as one of the most splendid cities in Spain, so it’s a necessity to see. I’ve already composed a detailed guide on aspects to do in Barcelona, but here, I’d prefer to elucidate what renders this one of the most charming cities in the country.

Many would agree that Gaudí`s modernist architecture is one of Barcelona’s crowning achievements. Specifically, you must see Park Güell and book this self-guided tour of the Sagrada Familia.

Also, visit Plaza de Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter, where you can see the Plaza de Sant Jaume, Town Hall, and the Palacio de la Generalitat. Continue through the Born neighborhood, home to the renowned Cathedral of the Sea. You can do all this and more on this free tour.

You can continue exploring along Barceloneta, where you can sample its famous bombas. I also advise exploring the Passeig de Gràcia and strolling through its neighborhood, filled with alternate boutiques, galleries, theaters, and plazas. For those who love soccer, take this tour of the renowned Camp Nou Stadium and its museum.

Moreover, Barcelona is one of the prime cities in Spain worth exploring at Christmas since it has numerous markets. Specifically, the Santa Llúcia Market on Avenida de la Catedral is most renowned.

• Suggestedlodging: The W Barcelona is among the top luxury hotels in Spain, with an eye-catching maritime structure and beautiful views of Barceloneta Beach. The resort includes a spa, infinity pool, rooftop bar, and high-end rooms, ensuring visitors feel cared for.

4. Granada, one of the most historic cities in Spain

With its undeniable natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere, Granada is one of the top university cities in Spain.

If exploring this location`s rich history is high on your list, touring the Alhambra should not be missed, considered one of the best activities in Spain. Reflecting the strength and affluence of the Nasrid Kingdom ruling the city until 1492, the Alhambra stands as a relic of times past. My favored aspect of this site are the Generalife Gardens and water features, observable on this experiential venture. Be sure to book in advance since entry permits sell out swiftly!

Moreover, you cannot depart from Granada without viewing the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel, where the remains of King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabel I rest. If you participate in this complimentary tour, you can also traverse the Alcaicería (old silk marketplace) and the Albaicín neighborhood, a modern hub for writers and bohemians. From here, you can get panoramic views of the Alhambra.

At sunset, I suggest going to the Carrera del Darro or the Mirador de San Nicolás to see the golden glow of this beautiful Spanish city.

• Recommended accommodation: My top choice for a hotel in Granada is the Alhambra Palace, located next to the old walls of the Alhambra. It provides spectacular views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains, and is just a 10-minute bus ride from the Albaicín neighborhood.

5. San Sebastián, one of the best cities in Spain to visit

San Sebastián is consistently included in any top ranking of cities in Spain, and I’ll outline some of the primary rationales for this.

Its beautiful bay is framed by Mount Igueldo and the island of Santa Clara. Along with La Concha Beach, one of the best beaches in Spain, it has two other urban beaches, allowing it to be the coastal city with the finest coastline in Spain. Take a stroll along the promenade at Zurriola Beach, traverse the Paseo Nuevo around Monte Urgull, and cross the bay to conclude at Ondarreata Beach. Here, you can view thePeine del Viento, an impressive sculpture by Eduardo Chillida and Peña Gantxegi

Then, venture into the city center to see the squares, bridges, and structures. You can also take this complementary tour to view the premier places in San Sebastián.

For many individuals, this is considered the finest city in Spain for cuisine, so if you want to experience San Sebastián’s food culture, don’t miss this . Over two hours (or more if you want), you’ll visit several traditional eateries and samplepintxos prepared by culinary masters.

• Highly suggestedlodging: The Axel Hotel San Sebastián is an adults-only hotel that’s guaranteed to please. Along with its pool, gym, and bar, it’s just 10 minutes from the beach.

6. Santiago de Compostela, another one of the best cities to visit in Spain

Without uncertainty, Santiago de Compostela is considered the best city to explore in Spain. Labeled a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, this city in Galicia is a popular location for thousands of people who make the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage annually, one of the best hikes in Spain.

This beautiful Spanish city is also renowned for its Cathedral, which boasts an impressive history. In the ninth century, Bishop Teodomiro de Iria Flavia discovered the hidden tomb of the Apostle Santiago in the cathedral. This dramatically increased pilgrimages to the city, and in 1805, construction of the Romanesque cathedral began under Alfonso VI. If you’re interested in learning more and seeing the church for yourself, it’s worth taking this guided tour.

The Church of San Martiño Pinario is another structure you should visit when there, as is the Parque de la Alameda and the Plaza de Cervantes. Also, since you’re in the area, take the chance to go from bar to bar and taste the various regional foods. It’s inexpensive and delicious.

To ensure you don`t miss any details, and to learn some hidden secrets about the city, participate in this guided tour. Be certain to book in advance since spots can fill up, especially when there’s an influx of pilgrims. The tour will also bring you to the Palacio de Rajoy, the Plaza de Laterías, and the University of Santiago.

• Suggestedaccommodation: The Capitol Boutique Hotel is one of the top boutique hotels in Spain, with private terrace rooms. It’s found in the historic center, only 0.4 miles from the cathedral.

7. Toledo, one of the best cities in Spain to visit

Toledo is one of the best cities to explore in Spain since visiting it is like taking a journey back in time. During the reign of Carlos V, Toledo served as the imperial capital and home to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Hence, it was known as ‘the City of the Three Cultures’.

As one could imagine, this is one of the most important cities in Spain, and some sights not to be missed include Plaza Zocodover, the Alcázar, the Cathedral of Santa María, and the 13^th-century synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Nor can you leave without seeing the impressive views from the Mirador del Valle or the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.

As there are numerous spots to go to, I suggest acquiring the Toledo Card for priority access to the city’s primary monuments. The card also gives you a place on a guided tour of the Toledo Cathedral. If you want to see everything from an insider’s perspective, I also advise this complimentary tour. Among other places, it goes through the Jewish Quarter.

Additionally, Toledo is among the coolest cities in Spain to delve into obscure arts such as magic, witchcraft, paranormal phenomena, and haunted houses. You can experience all these mysterious things on this night tour (in Spanish).

• Suggestedlodging: The Eugenia de Montijo is the perfect finishing touch for your visit to Toledo. Its rooms feature handmade rugs and period furniture, while the hotel has a spa with Arab vaulted ceilings and Roman remains from antiquity. It’s just a short 10-minute walk from the cathedral, so it’s an ideal place to stay.

8. Salamanca, another important city in Spain to visit

Salamanca is amongst the most renowned population centers in Spain, potentially most famed for its prestigious university. That said, its heart, Plaza Mayor, is a regular meeting place for locals, and Miguel de Unamuno defined it as “an irregular but surprisingly harmonious quadrilateral”. For this reason, this place has been declared a World Heritage Site.

I recommend following the route to the university, where you can marvel at its imposing façade, built in the Plateresque style. Look closely for the frog hidden in the architecture and, if time permits, go inside the school.

Moreover, Salamanca’s cathedrals and the Casa de las Conchas are also worthwhile seeing. The city’s Roman Bridge and the tower at La Clerecía church offer spectacular perspectives of the city, so you can’t neglect them either. Many individuals consider this to be the most beautiful city in Spain, so check out this free tour (in Spanish) to maximize your time here.

If you plan to travel by ferry, I suggest estimating the approximate cost in advance using this ferry price comparison website that works very well for Southeast Asia. This will give you a rough price estimate. Then you can contact the company directly to inquire about cheaper options.

9. Córdoba, one of the best cities in Southern Spain that you should see

Córdoba is one of the best cities in southern Spain thanks to its atmosphere, its flower-adorned patios, and of course, its Mosque-Cathedral.

The latter construction began in the 8th century and by the 13th century was transformed into a Catholic cathedral, making it one of the most visited sites in the country and the second largest mosque globally. Perhaps the best way to tour it is through this guided option or this alternative, which includes walking through the Jewish Quarter as well.

However, the Mosque-Cathedral isn’t the sole attraction that makes Córdoba such a magical city. In 2021, over 50,000 Spanish Lonely Planet readers opted Córdoba as the most charming World Heritage cityin Spain.

If possible, visit during the initial two weeks of May when the Córdoba Patio Festival occurs and all the participants showcase their lovely patios for all to view. Also, stop by the Palacio de Viana in the Plaza de Don Gome, where diverse flowers decorate and perfume the entire building.

As regular visitors to Capture the Atlas know, we really like free tours, and this particular one is a good way to explore the main highlights of Córdoba, one of Spain`s most affordable cities.

• Recommended lodging: The Hesperia Córdoba, located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, offers views of the Mosque and the Alcázar. In addition, it has a seasonal rooftop pool, which you’ll appreciate when temperatures soar in the summer.

10. Zaragoza, one of the most charming Spanish cities

Zaragoza is an additional significant city in Spain that you can visit anytime throughout the year. Among its must-sees is the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, better known locally as ‘El Pilar’. It’s an important Baroque temple with frescoes by Goya. Admission is free of charge, although if you want to climb to the highest point of the tower, you’ll need to pay a fee.

You can also view the Cathedral of the Savior, also known as La Seo de Zaragoza. It was constructed atop a former Muslim mosque and the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, so it offers an interesting sight to observe.

The Aljafería Palace, dating back to the 11^th century, is another remarkable sight to behold in this Spanishcity. Along with the Alhambra in Granada and the Mosque of Córdoba, it represents one of the outstanding works from Spain’s Muslim period. To ensure you do not miss anything here, I suggest this complimentary tour (in Spanish).

Additionally, Zaragoza is regarded as one of Spain`s most stunning yet reasonably priced cities, meaning you can fully explore this place withoutsignificant cost.

• Recommended lodging: The Hotel Avenida located in downtown Zaragoza is perfectly placed to rest after exploring all day. It`s just a three minute walk from El Pilar, and five minutes from the well-known street, El Tubo.

11. Cádiz, among the most beautiful and cheap cities in Spain

Cádiz is undeniably one of the top coastal cities in Spain, something that is readily apparent just by strolling along its promenade. Some compare it favorably to the famous Havana waterfront, with a sizable cathedral visible in the background. Incidentally, exploring this church is one of the attractions you should not miss in Cádiz.

You should also see the Tavira Tower and the camera obscura observatory, the Santa Catalina castle, and the monument to the 1812 Constitution. It`s also worthwhile taking a good stroll along La Caleta Beach.

A fine starting point for your visit is the Plaza de San Juan de Dios, the central square where this complimentary tour begins. Partake in it and you’ll see why this is one of the best cities in southern Spain that I recommend. Additionally, Cádiz is one of the greatest low-cost cities in Spain, so you can appreciate beautiful sights and delicious cuisine without depleting your finances.

• Recommended accommodation: The Tandem Torres de Cádiz Suites is my favorite place to stay in Cádiz. It’s a charming hotel with a seasonal outdoor pool and terrace area.

12. Valencia, one of the most popular cities in Spain with a beach

Valencia is among the finest large cities in Spain with a beach, although it has much more to offer. In addition to eating delicious Paella, I recommend exploring Valencia’s Cathedral and historic center, as well as the Carmen neighborhood, which reflects the city’s Muslim and Christian heritage.

This city in Spain is also recognized for the City of Arts and Sciences, a grand architectural complex designed by the renowned architect and engineer, Santiago Calatrava, and the late Félix Candela. It’s truly an amazing place to explore, and it becomes crowded, so reserving a ticket in advance.

La Lonja is another significant building in Valencia, as well as one of the most important Gothic monuments in all of Europe. It has been a National Artistic Historical Monument since 1931 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, so you can’t miss it.

To view the most iconic locations in Valencia, regarded as one of the best cities to visit in Spain, I suggest utilizing this complimentary guided tour, which will take you to the Palace of the Generalitat, the Plaza de la Virgen, and the Central Market of Valencia.

• Recommended accommodation: The Valentia Cabillers, is located just 165 feet from the cathedral and features a rooftop terrace and outdoor pool.

13. Oviedo, one of the cleanest cities in Spain you should see

Oviedo is renowned as one of the cleanest cities in Spain and the headquarters of the Princess of Asturias Awards, which are widely known throughout the world.

As one of the premier cities to explore in northern Spain, Oviedo is home to numerous architecturally notable structures, including its Cathedral and Gothic Tower. I also recommend ascending Mount Naranco and visiting the Church of Santa María del Naranco, a historically significant medieval monument throughout Europe. With this complimentary tour (in Spanish), one can see other symbolic locations in this Asturian capital, like the Plaza de Alfonso II El Casto, the Plaza de la Constitución, and the Plaza del Fontán.

In terms of cuisine, I believe Oviedo is one of the best Spanish cities for food, so do not neglect exploring the cider bars along Calle Gascona. If spending more than a single day in the city, I suggest partaking in an excursion to Covadonga, within the Picos de Europa mountains, representing one of the finest national parks in Spain.

• Suggested accommodation: The Eurostars Hotel de la Reconquista hosts the annual Princess of Asturias Awards. Situated in an 18th-century structure declared a National Monument, the hotel is located in the historic center close to many primary attractions in Oviedo.

14. Bilbao, one of the best cities to visit in Northern Spain

Bilbao has become increasingly popular in recent years, making it one of the best northern Spanish cities to explore.

If you visit, I suggest enjoying the sunset observation from the Marzana Pier, a pleasant place to sit back and relax with a drink. You should also go around the Arenal, see La Ribera Market, and travel to Plaza Nueva to stroll through its arches and sample the delectable pintxos in its eateries. After all, Bilbao is likely the finest city in Spain to indulge in food.

That said, the most iconic attraction here is the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. This impressive architectural work by Frank Gehry marks the end of an era in the city, as well as a new beginning. The museum’s interior is also worth exploring, so I suggest securing a ticket in advance to avoid unnecessary queues.

We discuss the two day trek we did in the Bukit Lawang jungle to see orangutans in this post.

• Recommendedaccommodation: The Hotel Carlton is in the well-known Plaza de Federico Moyúa, an iconic landmark. You’ll have the Gran Vía next door, and you’ll be less than 10 minutes’ walk from the Guggenheim Museum.

15. Palma de Mallorca, one of the best cities to visit in Spain in summer

Finally, the island of Palma de Mallorca is considered one of the prime cities to visit in Spain during the summer season owing to its delightful beaches. Once there, you`ll likely want to extend your stay thanks to the enjoyable atmosphere.

Its Gothic-style Cathedral is in close proximity to the Almudaina Royal Palace, the former residence of the Kings of Mallorca, so exploring this location would allow one to see aspects of this city`s heritage. Allow the Old Town to immerse you, and observe the influences left behind by the Romans, Muslims, and Christians.

As the capital of the Balearic Islands and one of the top coastal urban areas in Spain, there is a lot to see and do here. My guidance is to book this complimentary tour so you don’t miss anything. I also suggest making the journey to see the Castell de Bellver; it’s a bit away from the center, but one of the most spectacular places in Palma de Mallorca.

To summarize, if you’re on the island, you cannot miss this amazing city in Spain, particularly during the summer months!

• Suggestedlodging: The Iberostar Cristina is one of the premier all-inclusive resorts located in Spain and is just a brief two-minute walk from Playa de Palma. Additionally, the resort features a relaxing spa area and an outdoor pool.

Map of the best cities to visit in Spain

To assist you in locating each of these Spanish cities and planning your trip, here is a map of all the places I mentioned.

Of course, if you have any inquiries or you’d like to share with me your preferred cities in Spain, leave me a comment below. I’ll be delighted to reply to you. Until then, have a great trip!