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Spain holidays do city breaks, beach and islands – say less. It’s the UK’s fave destination for a reason…

Big-name city breaks

Spain can do a good old fly-and-flop, family beach resorts and winter sun, but its city destinations are never off the radar. You’ve got absolute classics, like Barcelona and Madrid, but also trending, up-and-coming spots, such as San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela. The architecture is amazing, showcasing Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance and Modernist styles, depending on where you go. Seville’s got some of the best variety, with its Gothic cathedral, Moorish Palace of Alcázar and tiled, old district of Triana. Valencia brings the Medieval vibes, lush Turia Gardens and possibly the country’s best paella… Then, Barcelona’s your best bet for iconic sites, courtesy of Antoni Gaudí – La Sagrada Família and Park Güell are must-sees.

Costa del beachy

Spain’s holiday rep is built on beaches. Pick from the Costa Brava, Costa Dorada, Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida and the Costa del Sol – all of Spain’s coastal regions make up around 8,000 kilometres of pure Mediterranean bliss. Families will love the bigger stretches with more facilities – think Salou, La Misericordia and Patacona. And, you can get the best of both worlds with loads of city beaches, too. Picks like Barceloneta Beach, La Concha and Playa de las Arenas mean you can top up that tan on the sand and get your fix of local sites at the same time. The LGBTQ+ community love Sitges and anyone who’s anyone knows which DJs are playing Ibiza’s beach clubs in summer.

Canaries vs Balearics

Spain’s islands are a sure thing for hot trips, with a decent mix of party and peace. The Canary Islands are so far south, they’re practically in Africa – hello winter sun escapes. Tenerife, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria are the big ones and they’ve got all the bars and beach set-ups you need, with a few smaller towns for something chill, too. It’s a similar vibe on Lanzarote, then La Gomera’s much smaller and a gem for valley hikes and spotting whales and dolphins. La Palma’s the tiny island and a bit underrated tbh – the whole place is a UNESCO biosphere reserve. And, together, they’re known for their desert-like landscapes, huge beaches and solid surf, sitting in the Atlantic. Then, you’ve got the Balearics – AKA Majorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera – which are in the Med and so have clearer waters and more lush greenery. Majorca’s capital, Palma, is a top city break destination for its Gothic cathedral. But the whole island has loads of pretty beaches to visit at the same time. You already know Ibiza’s the party one, but you probably didn’t realise that’s just one side to the island… the sunsets here are seriously gorg.

Fancy seeing Spain by train?

We also offer flight-free trips to Spain, in partnership with Byway. You can tick off famous cities like Barcelona and Valencia, explore the Balearics, or discover trending spots like San Sebastian. Browse flight-free trips to Spain >

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Key facts

  • Capital – Madrid
  • Language – Spanish
  • Timezone – GMT +1
  • Population – 46,081,574
  • Currency – EUR:Euro
  • Flight Time – 2 hours to 4 hours 15 minutes from Gatwick
  • Prep for your trip with our Holiday Extras

Popular destinations in Spain

Majorca been a firm family fave for ages, its pretty capital, Palma, and the cute, coastal town of Sóller are big talking points on social. The whole place is a paradise for hikers, cyclists and beach lovers.

On the surface, it’s the party one… but when you get to know Ibiza, you know it’s about way more than that. Pick Playa d’en Bossa or San Antonio for the big-name DJ sets, but places like Cala Tarida and Cala Llonga for more chill island life.

The capital of Catalonia, where tapas bars line Las Ramblas and Gothic architecture and Gaudi’s best works come with a city beach. With so many shopping streets, galleries and, of course, a sea swim to tick off, the metro is handy for getting around.

This Canary Island is famous for Spain’s tallest mountain, Mount Teide, and the second-biggest carnival in the world, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. The hiking and stargazing are amazing, and the sands come in golden from the Sahara itself, or black, volcanic style.

AKA the ‘sun coast’, so expect lots of it. Malaga’s the main city here, then Torremolinos, Marbella, Puerto Banus and Estepona dot the seafront as you head south. There’s a good mix of beach clubs, boutique shops and Blue Flag beauties.

A Canary Island that’s good for surf and the outdoors life. At Dunas de Corralejo National Park, locals carry their boards down for sunrise and the sunbathers aren’t too far behind. The beaches are huge, and the sun sticks around through the winter.

A quieter Balearic babe, with the Albufera des Grau Natural Park – a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The capital, Mahon, has a gin distillery, huge harbour and loads of traditional restaurants and bars. Then, beach-wise, Cala Trebaluger is a forest-backed cove, where you won’t find many others, and the sunsets at Cala Macarella are pretty special.

Another classic Canary pick, where you can explore Timanfaya National Park and a number of volcanic vineyards. This one’s nice and small so you can drive around to see it all, from fishing villages to viewpoints and Cesar Manrique’s Jardín de Cactus.

Check out the golden sand dunes of Maspalomas – it’s like a mini Sahara – and visit Las Palmas, which feels a bit more South American than Spanish. There’s always a party vibe on this Canary Island, as well as more peaceful resorts, like Playa Taurito and Amadores.

AKA the ‘white coast’ because of its 200-kilometre stretch of shoreline, starting near the city of Valencia. You already know all about the cheap beers in Benidorm, but Denia’s authentic market and Altea’s fishing village feels are a nice contrast, too.

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Top Spain holiday deals

Vibra Blanc Cottage

Ciutadella, Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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London Gatwick - 7 Nights - Self Catering

Based on 2 Adults - 7 May 2025

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Globales Torrenova

Magaluf, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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London Gatwick - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast

Based on 2 Adults - 31 May 2025

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Playa Moreia

S'Illot, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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London Southend - 5 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 4 May 2025

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Lanzarote Paradise

Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
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London Gatwick - 7 Nights - Self Catering

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Tabaiba

Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
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London Gatwick - 7 Nights - Self Catering

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Hotel Medium Renaixenca

Sitges, Costa Dorada, Mainland Spain, Spain
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London Gatwick - 5 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 22 March 2025

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TUI SUNEO Tamaimo Tropical - Self Catering

Puerto De Santiago, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
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Bournemouth - 7 Nights - Self Catering

Based on 2 Adults - 13 May 2025

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Talayot Apartments

Cala n Forcat, Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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Birmingham - 7 Nights - Self Catering

Based on 2 Adults - 2 May 2025

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Medium Romantic

Sitges, Costa Dorada, Mainland Spain, Spain
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London Gatwick - 5 Nights - Room Only

Based on 2 Adults - 22 March 2025

Hotel Rio Park

Benidorm, Costa Blanca, Mainland Spain, Spain
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London Gatwick - 7 Nights - Full Board

Based on 2 Adults - 19 April 2025

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Why pick Spain holidays

SHORT AND SWEET

SHORT AND SWEET

Spain is the UK’s fave holiday destination for a reason – the short flight time and similar time zone definitely help. Cities here are made for weekends away but the coasts are still worthy of a whole week.
BIG BEACHY REP

BIG BEACHY REP

5 costas, 8,000 kilometres of coastline – and that’s just the mainland. Spain’s got beaches and island hotspots for days, plus winter sun picks for when you want to catch flights, not a cold…
HOME OF SMALL PLATES

HOME OF SMALL PLATES

Tapas are the OG when it comes to picky bits. Snack your way through the day on patatas bravas and try the Basque version, pintxos – small tapas on sticks. Foodies, there’s no easier way to try everything on the menu.
TRENDING CITIES

TRENDING CITIES

Think you know Spain? Think again. Yes, you already know Barcelona and Majorca, but do you know Santiago de Compostela or San Sebastian? It’s never off your socials because this is a country that just keeps on giving.

Your guide to Spain

Spanish history is rich – you’ve got the royal family, a civil war, Roman rule and its Golden Age to learn about.

  • The Sagrada Família, Barcelona – This is Gaudí’s masterpiece and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. The basilica blends Gothic and modernist designs and is famously unfinished, but 2026 looks like it might be the year.
  • The Alhambra, Granada – Wander through this stunning Moorish palace and fortress to see the intricate Nasrid Palaces, the serene Generalife Gardens and the impressive Alcazaba fortress. You shouldn’t miss Charles V’s Renaissance Palace and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada, either.
  • Seville Cathedral, Seville – Say hola to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world – it’s where you can find Christopher Columbus’ tomb. Climb La Giralda for panoramic city views and enjoy the peaceful Patio de los Naranjos.
  • The Alcázar, Seville – This is the city’s old royal palace and a stunning example of Mudéjar architecture. You get access to the ornate Patio de las Doncellas, the gilded Hall of Ambassadors and the underground Baths of Doña María de Padilla. Also, don’t miss the gardens – they featured in Game of Thrones.
  • The Royal Palace, Madrid – Explore the grandest royal palace in Europe, featuring opulent rooms, the breathtaking Throne Room and the impressive Royal Armoury. You can stroll through the Sabatini Gardens and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. And, while you’re in the city, go see Puerta del Sol, the city’s bustling central square, and Plaza Mayor, a buzzing historic hub.
  • The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao – Where avant-garde architecture and world-class exhibits come together. Bilbao is also just one of Spain’s underrated cities to explore – head to the Ría de Bilbao, where riverside promenades and scenic bridges make for a gorg walk.
  • Alhambra Palace, Granada – It’s the most important surviving piece from the period of Islamic rule around here. The city’s Albayzín quarter’s whitewashed streets are also worth a stroll, as well as the Generalife Gardens and the sunset views at Mirador San Nicolás, where the Sierra Nevada serves as a dramatic backdrop.

Spain’s got two archipelagos to pick from – the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.

  • Majorca – Majorca’s not just about sunbathing. Swap crowded resorts for rustic retreats and see a wilder side to the island, hiking the Tramuntana Mountains, paddling through sea caves and catching the wind with kitesurfing. When you’re ready for a city vibe, Palma serves up medieval charm, cobblestone streets and a buzzing nightlife scene.
  • Ibiza – This island has a split personality that’s perfect for anyone who loves to mix it up. Yes, there are legendary clubs and beach bars, but Ibiza’s also got secluded coves, Insta-worthy sunsets and cute villages for more wholesome trips, too. Spend mornings kayaking along coastlines or discovering tucked-away beach spots.
  • Tenerife – Head to the lively south for golden beaches, buzzing nightlife and waterfront vibes. Or, the north’s black volcanic sands, lush forests and small-town feel are perfect for slowing down. Mount Teide’s a big attraction here – it’s Spain’s tallest mountain and a dormant volcano – which is perfect for hiking and stargazing.
  • Lanzarote – This island’s volcanic landscape is straight out of a sci-fi movie, with red and black rock formations and surreal lava fields. Hike through Timanfaya National Park or chill on the golden beaches. For something a bit different, check out the island’s unique art installations, thanks to artist, Cesar Manrique.
  • Fuerteventura – Fuerteventura is all about wide-open spaces and raw natural beauty, where you can wander through volcanic landscapes and swim in hidden natural pools. This island is a paradise for watersports, from windsurfing to snorkelling, but the sands are just as good for days full of sunbathing, too.

The Spanish mainland has some mega mountains, but the Canaries claim the highest one and look like something out of space.

  • The Picos de Europa, Cantabria – These are the ‘Peaks of Europe’, spread across Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and Léon and form part of the Cantabrian Mountains in the north of Spain. The national park features rugged peaks, lush valleys and charming villages, and trails like the Ruta del Cares are ideal for experienced and more casual hikers.
  • Mount Teide, Tenerife – Spain’s highest peak is in Teide National Park, and you can reach the top by hiking or via a cable car. The stargazing is unreal here, so why not book a sunset tour?
  • Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote – Explore the lunar-like landscape of Lanzarote’s volcanic park, with a guided walk or camel ride to see its dramatic craters and lava fields.
  • The Tabernas Desert, Almería – This is Europe’s only desert and the backdrop for many classic films, like Cleopatra and Lawrence of Arabia.

Even if you don’t think you’re after anything, the markets in Spain are part of the local culture, so deffo worth a visit.

  • Madrid – Head to the Golden Mile – Milla de Oro – in the Salamanca district for a top-tier shopping spree. This area’s home to high-end designer stores like Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Spanish fashion house, Loewe. If you prefer a more eclectic vibe, check out the Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods, which are full of vintage shops and independent boutiques.
  • Barcelona – Stroll down Passeig de Gràcia, where luxury shops meet iconic Catalan architecture. Also, don’t miss the El Born district for artisan products and handmade jewellery. Or, for a more local experience, visit the Encants Market, which is one of Europe’s oldest flea markets.
  • Valencia – Central Market’s all buzzing stalls, offering fresh produce, gourmet food and authentic souvenirs. For fashion and crafts, the Colón Market is full of upscale shops and cool cafés.
  • Granada – Explore the Alcaicería, Granada’s historic Moorish bazaar, filled with stalls selling ceramics, textiles and jewellery. This market is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs inspired by Andalusian culture. Nearby, local boutiques also sell artisanal leather goods and traditional flamenco dresses.
  • Bilbao – Walk through Gran Vía – a haven of flagship stores and luxury brands – then head to the Casco Viejo, or Old Town, for independent boutiques and traditional Basque goods, including handcrafted leather bags and traditional espadrilles.

The Canary and Balearic Islands love a party but some of Spain’s top cities are known for their bar scene, too.

  • Ibiza – Start with sunset drinks at Café del Mar or Mambo on San Antonio’s sunset strip, then hit up world-famous clubs like Pacha, Amnesia, or Ushuaïa, where international DJs bring the big crowds.
  • Madrid – Malasaña’s Madrid’s hottest nightlife district, with indie music venues and cosy cocktail bars. La Latina’s known for its lively tapas bars that spill onto the streets, and you can end the night in a traditional flamenco bar.
  • Seville – Seville’s Triana district is full of intimate flamenco performances. But for a more modern vibe, head to Alameda de Hércules, a square lined with bars, outdoor terraces and cocktail spots.
  • Barcelona – The Gothic Quarter is where you’ll find a lot of bars and smaller, local clubs but Plaza Real has the most famous venues. To end your days beachside, Port Olympic has all the beach clubs – Opium and Shôko are two big names here. Then, for rooftop views, check out Eclipse at the W Hotel.
  • San Sebastian – Start your evening hopping between pintxos bars in the Parte Vieja – AKA the Old Town, and later, explore the bars along La Concha Bay for some drinks with stunning coastal views. You can also catch the sunset from up high, with a hike or ride on the funicular up Monte Igueldo – the panoramic views from here capture the sea and city, then you can head back into town for some drinks.

Missed out on Glasto? It’s probably gonna rain anyway… Pick a festival in Spain and you can deffo leave the wellies at home.

  • Primavera Sound, Barcelona, June – This annual music festival gets an unreal line-up every year. Name a better trio of headliners than Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter and Chapell Roan, we’ll wait… It’s hosted in Parc del Fòrum, which is right in Barcelona, so you can tie it in perfectly with a city break. And, with every ticket, you get 25% off an Hola Barcelona Travel Card for unlimited travel around the city, too – win-win.
  • Festival Internacional de Benicàssim, Benicàssim, July – Category is… pop, rock and electronic. This music festival takes place in the town of Benicàssim in the Valencian Community every July and has seen Bastille, Franz Ferdinand and the Black Eyed Peas headline.
  • La Tomatina, Buñol, August – For something a bit more local, join the world’s most famous food fight in Buñol, where thousands get together just to hurl overripe tomatoes at each other. Don’t forget to wear old clothes and goggles for protection – we’re not joking.
  • Carnival, Tenerife and Cádiz, February – Spain’s Carnival celebrations are up there with Rio, thanks to Tenerife and Cádiz. Expect colourful costumes, busy parades and street parties. Tenerife’s events also include the quirky Burial of the Sardine.
  • Christmas markets, December – Spain might not be your first thought for a Christmas markets break, but places like Barcelona and Madrid put on festive stalls just like the colder parts of Europe, too. Wander through the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona or Plaza Mayor in Madrid to soak it all in. They’re known for selling roasted chestnuts and a festive turrón-flavoured drink.

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Spain’s got a load of costas to pick from on the mainland, and they’re less than a three-hour flight away.

  • Costa del Sol – This coast is set within Andalusia, where Marbella’s a glam hotspot for upscale beach clubs like Nikki Beach. Nerja has a more laidback feel with its famous Burriana Beach and stunning cliffs, but the whole region boasts over 325 sunny days a year, so its deffo a go-to for beachgoers.
  • Costa Brava – Part of Catalonia, Tossa de Mar combines a medieval old town with stunning beaches, like Platja Gran. Hidden gems like Cala Pola are perfect for travellers that love a secluded spot with dramatic scenery. And, even though places are surrounded with natural beauty, they’re still super accessible.
  • Costa Blanca – Stretching for 200 kilometres down from Valencia, along the Mediterranean, Costa Blanca is known for its lively resorts – Benidorm, we’re looking at you… Levante is a beach here that’s packed with watersports. Or, for a quieter escape, Playa de San Juan, near Alicante, has those golden sands and clear waters with a family-friendly vibe.

Why pick just one? City breaks with a side of beach are the best shout for indecisive travel lovers.

  • Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona – Walkable from the heart of Barcelona, Barceloneta Beach is a big stretch of sand with an urban energy. Sunbathe, swim or enjoy a beachside drink and some food at one of the many chiringuitos, AKA beach bars.
  • La Concha, San Sebastian – Often listed among Europe’s most beautiful city beaches, La Concha is a crescent-shaped bay with calm, shallow waters. It’s just steps from San Sebastian’s Old Town, so perfect for combining beach time with pintxos bar-hopping. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular here, thanks to the protected waters.
  • Malagueta Beach, Málaga – Just a short walk from Málaga’s historic centre, Malagueta Beach is ideal for a quick dip. Its golden sands are lined with beach bars serving espetos, which are skewered sardines grilled over open flames – a local specialty. It’s super close to cultural hotspots, like the Picasso Museum, so it’s easy to mix beach and city adventures.

The best thing about Spain holidays to one of its islands? You’ve got a 360-degree coastline to play with.

  • Ibiza – Ibiza’s beaches range from lively party hubs to chill hideaways. Cala d’en Bossa is perfect for those who love music, cocktails and watersports, while Cala Saladeta is a quieter retreat with clear waters and rugged cliffs.
  • Majorca – Majorca is home to some of Spain’s most stunning beaches. Playa de Muro is a family-friendly gem with shallow, turquoise waters and soft sands. For adventure, hike to Cala Agulla, a hidden beach surrounded by pine forests. Or, Es Trenc, with its powdery white sands, is like something straight out of the Caribbean on the island’s south coast.
  • Tenerife – Tenerife’s beaches range from black volcanic sands to golden stretches. Playa Jardín was designed by artist César Manrique himself and features leafy gardens and a dramatic volcanic backdrop. Then, Playa de las Teresitas, near Santa Cruz, is a sandy spot, ideal for swimming.

Spain holidays are always a winner with families, mainly because of the beach game.

  • Playa de Palma, Majorca – With shallow waters, kids can safely play in the gentle waves, while parents are able to dip out to nearby restaurants and shops. Beach activities like paddleboats add extra fun.
  • La Barrosa, Andalusia – La Barrosa is a wide, sandy beach with calm waters and family-friendly facilities. There are playgrounds, beachside dining options and loads of parking so you can bring all the beach games.
  • Playa de Las Canteras, Gran Canaria – Known for its natural reef protecting the shoreline, Playa de Las Canteras has unreal snorkelling for all ages. The long promenade is perfect for family walks, with ice cream parlours and foodie spots to stop for lunch or a snack.

Beaches aren’t just for sunbathing on holidays to Spain – get your active adventure fix at these spots, known for watersports.

  • Tarifa, Andalusia – Tarifa is Europe’s windsurfing and kitesurfing capital, thanks to its strong, consistent winds. Beginners and pros love beaches like Playa de Los Lances, where surf schools and equipment rentals are easy to find. After an active day on the water, Tarifa’s boho vibe with laidback cafés and sunset views over the Strait of Gibraltar are well worth sticking around for.
  • Fuerteventura, Canary Islands – Fuerteventura is a bit of a watersports heaven, with over 150 beaches and world-class conditions. Sotavento Beach hosts international windsurfing championships, while spots like Corralejo offer top surfing and snorkelling scenes. The clear waters and diverse marine life also make it a win with scuba divers.
  • Lanzarote, Canary Islands – With its volcanic underwater landscapes, Lanzarote is a dream for divers and snorkellers. Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen is a hotspot for exploring lava reefs and spotting marine creatures like angel sharks. Surfers can also head to Famara Beach, which is known for its consistent waves.

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Tapas are the OG small plates – say less. If you can never decide what to order, Spain’s the perfect place… it’s always picky bits for the table.

  • Paella – Valencia claims the oldest and the best recipe – but you can be the judge. It’s a large, shallow dish of saffron-flavoured rice, cooked with ingredients like seafood, chicken, or even rabbit. Vegetarian versions are also available with seasonal veg.
  • Tortilla Española – A simple Spanish omelette never gets old. It’s made with eggs, potatoes and onions, and served as a tapas dish or even for breakfast.
  • Jamón Ibérico – Cured Iberian ham – it’s a real delicacy and best enjoyed thinly sliced with bread or paired with wine.
  • Gazpacho and salmorejo – Refreshing cold soups made with tomatoes, olive oil and garlic. Salmorejo is a thicker version and often garnished with hard-boiled egg and some jamón.

Eat on the go with these street food treats, and we’ve recommended some of the best markets to find them at, too…

  • Bocadillos – The humble sandwich, but filled with jamón, chorizo or even tortilla española. You can beat them and they’re perfect for a quick, affordable meal.
  • Empanadas – Pastry pockets filled with meat, fish,or vegetables, popular in northern Spain and Galicia.
  • La Boqueria Market, Barcelona – A food lover’s paradise, offering everything from fresh seafood to cured meats and local cheeses.
  • Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid – A gourmet market where you can sample Spanish wines, oysters and a variety of tapas.
  • Turrón Stalls – Especially popular during the holidays, they sell almond-based nougats in different flavours.

The Spanish love a glass of wine or a small cerveza with lunch – here are some of the best drinks to try.

  • Spanish wines Rioja is a full-bodied red wine, with notes of dark fruits, spices and oak. For white, go for an Albariño wine – it’s a crisp one from Galicia, perfect for pairing with seafood. Cava is the sparkling go-to, similar to Champagne, and mainly produced in Catalonia.
  • Sherry – Made in Jerez, sherry ranges from dry – fino and manzanilla – to sweet – Pedro Ximénez.
  • Sidra – AKA cider. A tart, lightly sparkling drink from Asturias, traditionally poured from a height to aerate it.
  • Sangria – The only poolside cocktail you need here. A refreshing mix of red wine, fruit and brandy. The local alternative is also Tinto de Verano (if you want to avoid sounding like a tourist when you order) which is just red wine with lemon soda.
  • Horchata – A sweet, milky drink made from tiger nuts, popular in Valencia and a great summer cooler.

If it’s the Spanish food you’re after, these are the places you should pick for your next Spanish holiday.

  • San Sebastian – Do it for the Michelin-starred restaurants and thriving pintxo bars.
  • Seville – Tapas heaven, where you can enjoy a casual bar crawl sampling small plates and local wines.
  • Granada – One of the few cities where tapas are still free with drinks!
  • Valencia – The best place to try authentic paella, cooked in large pans over an open flame.

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What's on in Spain

Plan your stay around these festivals and events. Or, if you’re already booked, see what’s on while you’re out there. Powered by OccasionGenius

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Why we love Spain

“Definitely go to Bar La Tita if you visit Santiago de Compostela. It’s a cute little tapas bar that’s famous for its tortilla – you get a free small portion when you order a drink, or they do bigger and full sizes to share for bigger groups.” – Lily Owen

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Instead of hitting up a classic hiking route, go and brave The King’s Walk. It was once one of the world’s scariest footpaths, but don’t worry, it reopened in 2015 and has been carefully restored to make it much safer. The route is also known as the Caminito del Rey and you can trail the whole eight-kilometre path that sits 100 metres up a cliff face, running through canyons and a large valley. It’s not for everyone… hence, why it’s an alternative pick. You just have to buy tickets before you go.

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There are actually around 200 museums and attractions in Spain that you don’t have to pay a penny for… In Granada, the Alhambra Museum offers free entry, so does the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Contemporary Arts Centre of Malaga, Madrid’s Museo de Historia and the Virreina Palace in Barcelona. Sunday tends to be the day these places don’t charge, so check out their websites to see.

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Popular holiday types

All Inclusive resorts line up along pretty much every part of the Spanish coastline, so you’ve got your pick of a lot of places. Plus, having all your food and drink included means it’s easier to budget for activities and experiences – or you don’t have to pay a penny more.

Kids love the wild rides at PortAventura World near Barcelona and waterpark fun at Siam Park in Tenerife. Plus, the beaches themselves are super safe – pick Playa de Palma in Majorca or La Concha in San Sebastian, where shallow waters and nearby facilities make life easy.

Mainland Spain is less than three hours away on a plane and even though the Canaries are a bit further, they’re your best bet for winter sun and known for always being pretty affordable, too. Long story short, Spain holidays are a great should for something last minute, time and price wise.

Treat yourself to one of Marbella’s beachfront resorts or unwind in a boutiquey spot on one of the islands, like Menorca. Wine-tasting tours are a win – when in La Rioja… – or book in for an intimate dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in San Sebastian.

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Spain FAQs

EU citizens don’t need a visa to visit Spain, but travellers from many non-EU countries, like the UK, US, Canada and Australia, can still enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You can check your country’s specific visa requirements through Spain’s official consular website or the Schengen Visa portal. This information is correct at the time of writing. Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.

For city-to-city travel, the high-speed AVE train is fast and easy. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural regions or coastal routes, and public transport is reliable once you’re in a city. If you’re moving about, domestic flights are the best for longer distances, like if you’re travelling to the Canary or Balearic Islands from the mainland

A budget traveller can expect to spend €50–€80 per day, including accommodation, meals and public transport. Mid-range travellers might budget €100–€150 per day, which covers slightly more expensive hotels and dining. Or, for something more luxury, €200+ per day will definitely cover treating yourself.

Tipping in Spain is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, you can round up the bill or leave 5–10%. Then, tipping for taxis, bars or cafés is less common but rounding up your bill is always appreciated.

The Spanish eat later than us Brits. Most locals eat lunch around 2pm and dinner after 9pm. As always, it’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. And, while you’re there, embrace the siestas – shops and businesses often close in the afternoon anyway, especially in smaller towns.

Spain holiday inspiration

Spain travel advice

Passports and Visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Spain but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport’s valid for Spain using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements.

Health and safety

You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. If you’re travelling to the EU and you apply for a card now, you’ll get a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) instead of an EHIC. This entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Spanish nationals. It won’t, however, cover you for medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment or non-urgent treatment. Visit www.nhs.uk/ehic for full details on what it covers. You do not need to apply for a GHIC if you already have an EHIC. Your EHIC remains valid in the EU until it expires. An EHIC or GHIC is free of charge. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/health

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