28 Unmissable Experiences to add to your Spain Bucket List

There are many cultural experiences in Spain thanks to its rich heritage and vibrant traditions. It has therefore rightfully earned a place as one of the best destinations for bucket list experiences.

From the enchanting streets of Barcelona to the majestic palaces of Andalusia, Spain is a tapestry of unmissable experiences that captivate the senses.

This article is all about immersing yourself in everything Spain has to offer. From trying mouthwatering paella in Valencia to exploring the whitewashed towns of Pueblo Blancos, there are so many activities to embark on in this beautiful country. That is why, with the help of our friends, we’ve put together all the unmissable experiences for your Spain bucket list!

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Some helpful tips for visiting Spain

How to get around Spain

Despite being a large country, Spain is incredibly easy to get around. This is mainly down to its extensive National Network of Spanish Railways or Renfe. From Seville in the south, Bilbao in the north, Vigo in the west and Barcelona in the east, all are connected by railways. This makes travelling to Spain quick, easy and affordable.

Similarly, the total length of roads and highways in Spain total a staggering 683,175km in length. This great network spans every corner of the country allowing you to crisscross the country at your pleasure. If this is your first time in Spain and you’re looking for an extended stay, hiring a car is a great way to survey this beautiful country. Alternatively, getting the bus is really affordable and we’d highly recommend booking through Omio

How to book your accommodation

You’ll be able to find a range of hotels and hostels on both booking.com and Hostelworld. We used these throughout our travels of Spain and Europe because they were so quick and easy to use. Each provides you with a long list of reviews so there are no surprises whilst the apps are super easy to navigate and compare different accommodations.

How to book your tours and experiences in Spain

Again, in both Spain and Europe we relied heavily on Viator and GetYourGuide for most of our tours and they were great. All the information is super clear and you receive an email confirmation immediately after booking. We found the best bit about Viator was simply the range of tours available. If you come across one aspect of a tour you don’t like they’ll be an identical tour, exactly how you want it! If Viator isn’t an option, your accommodation is guaranteed to advertise tours. The likelihood is that if you have any questions about the tour, the reception will have all the answers you need.

28 Experiences to add to your Spain bucket list!

1. Alhambra in Granada

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The Alhambra, located in the picturesque city of Granada in Spain’s Andalusian region, is a captivating testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnificent palace and fortress complex from the 14th century. It is a must-do for visitors who want to immerse themselves in Spain’s fascinating history and architectural marvels.

Due to Alhambra’s popularity, tickets must be purchased in advance and booked online. The cost of admission varies according to the type of visit. A general admission ticket typically costs around €14, but the extraordinary experience that awaits within the walls of this enchanting fortress is well worth the investment.

The Alhambra’s intricate courtyards, stunning gardens, and ornate palaces adorned with delicate Islamic motifs provide a truly captivating journey. Exploring the opulent Nasrid Palaces is a highlight that transports visitors back in time, with their exquisite tilework and intricately carved stucco. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Alhambra by night for an adventurous and stunning experience.

The Parador de Granada is an excellent option for those looking for nearby lodging. This luxurious hotel is located within The Alhambra’s grounds, providing a unique opportunity to stay amidst the historical charm.

Alhambra’s magnificent architecture, rich history, and unrivalled beauty create an atmosphere that lingers long after one has left.

2. La Latina Tapas Crawl

3. Visit The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia

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The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, is a renowned landmark in Spain and a visit to this iconic site is a must-do. Also known as Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, the modern design is particularly noteworthy, captivating visitors with its futuristic appeal.

Situated on the outskirts of the old town and bordering Turia Park, the City of Arts and Sciences can be easily reached by taking a leisurely stroll. The distinct architecture of the complex is recognizable even from a distance thanks to its avant-garde backdrop. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, the complex comprises several buildings. It opened in 1998 whilst the most recent building in the complex opened in 2009. The landmark now encompasses various museums, exhibitions, an opera house, an aquarium, and enchanting gardens.

Adding to its allure is the integrated water landscape that lends a unique touch to this futuristic area. Visitors can even rent boats to paddle through the water features. However, the City of Arts and Sciences offers more than just picturesque scenery. The main attractions are the 3D cinema L’Hemisfèric, the Science Center, L’Oceanogràfic, L’Umbracle, and the iconic Opera. Allocate ample time to explore these places when visiting as they’re all a worthwhile experience.

Entrance to the City of Arts and Sciences is free, although individual museums may require admission fees. Visitors can save money by purchasing a combined ticket for access to multiple attractions. Artwork includes that of the famous Salvador Dali.

There are so many amazing places to stay in Valencia, but a true recommendation is the YOURS Boutique Hotel in the hip Russafa area.

4. Take a day trip to Segovia

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Spain is a beautiful country with plenty of unique experiences to offer. One must-do experience however is a day trip to Segovia. With its stunning architecture, fantastic Spanish food, and wonderful atmosphere, there are so many reasons why you should add this incredible place to your must-visit list in Spain!

Located just over an hour away from Madrid, Segovia is one of Spain’s most iconic World Heritage cities. It’s been home to some of the most influential Spanish rulers throughout history. The best way to visit this beautiful city is on a day trip from Madrid to Segovia. A tour to Segovia from Madrid usually lasts between 5 and 11 hours. It includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a visit to the city’s must-see sights, all costing just 50€.

As well as exploring the Ancient Walls of Segovia high up on the rocky promontory, there’s plenty of other activities to enjoy. Why not explore the Gothic Cathedral, stroll around the Jewish Quarter or take a tour of the famous Roman Aqueduct?!

When it comes to food, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Segovia is renowned for its delicious roast sucking pig (cochinillo) and mouth-watering deserts like Ponche Segoviano.

Regardless of how long you decide to stay, a trip to Segovia is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Spain!

5. Hiking in the Volcanic Region of Garrotxa

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The Volcanic Region of Garrotxa is a popular tourist destination for local Catalonians but lesser known to international tourists. This makes the region in Costa Brava province all the more charming and authentic.

Hiking in Garrotxa is definitely one of the best things to do in Spain. Not only do you enjoy the beautiful scenery and see incredible views, it’s also free to access. Here you’ll find a network of more than 2,500km in trails, all of which are part of the Itinerannia network. These routes connect the Pyrenees region to the coastal region of the Mediterranean through the Garrotxa, L’Alt Empordà and El Ripollès regions.

There are hikes for all levels of difficulty, with some that are incredibly challenging such as the Cami dels Gantxos. Others, like the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone National Park are more pleasant trails and suitable for everyone. Guided group hikes are widely avaliable and great fun for those wishing to meet new people!

The city of Olot is a great place to base yourself for the wider exploration of the region. Here you can spend the night at Hotel Riu Fluvia and eat at La Quinta Justa which focuses on excellent local cuisine.

Throughout your hikes, you’ll find accommodation along the way, though you are better off booking in advance. Most places work on a half board basis so you can enjoy a delicious, locally cooked meal once you arrive for the night.

6. Try paella in Valencia

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Paella is a staple of Spanish cuisine and a must-try dish for anyone visiting the country. This golden rice dish originated in the region of Valencia and is prepared in a wide, shallow pan, which is where its name comes from.

The main ingredients in authentic paella are rice, chicken, rabbit, vegetables and saffron. Different chefs put their own spin on the original recipe but for Valencianos, pretty much any deviation is yet another rice dish.

Whilst paella can be found throughout Spain, it doesn’t get any better than in Valencia. If you have the chance to visit this city, booking a table at one of the best paella restaurants in Valencia is mandatory. Most restaurants in Valencia serve the original paella Valenciana, but seafood and mixed paella (meat and seafood) are also popular.

Prices may vary depending on the restaurant and the type of paella ordered. However, in most restaurants, you can expect to pay around 16€ per person for a serving of paella Valenciana, while lobster paella is usually around 25€.

One thing to keep in mind is that paella is usually prepared for a minimum of two people. While this might be a bit of an inconvenience, keep in mind that eating paella in Valencia is not just a meal. It’s an immersion into the rich gastronomic culture of the region.

7. Alcazaba in Malaga

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The Alcazaba sits on top of the Gibralfaro mountain and overlooks Malaga in a quiet yet imposing manner. While Malaga is mostly known for its beaches and nightlife, Andalusia has a reputation for its beautiful Islamic architecture.

The Alcazaba of Malaga is a prime example of this. Even if you’ve already visited Alhambra, the old fortress of the Alcazaba has its own unique charm with its lush greenery and stunning views of the coastal city.

The entrance to the Alcazaba costs 3.50€ and can be found near the Parque de Malaga. The fortress is one of the finest locations to experience the rich cultural heritage of Spain. Take a respite from the bustling city below and explore the terraced gardens and stunning courtyards of the Alcazaba. While you may not be able to completely escape the heat, the presence of orange trees and beautiful fountains provides a welcome early-afternoon lull.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Malaga, consider the Soho Boutique Colón. It’s a stylish hotel in a great location, especially for first-time visitors. Situated in the city centre, it offers easy access to the Alcazaba, the popular beaches, and the Centre Pompidou.

8. Cocktails in Barcelona

9. Park Güell in Barcelona

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Think of the five most famous images that come to your mind when you think of Spain. Chances are, at least one of those things that comes to mind is Park Güell. Hardly surprising since the famous park in Barcelona is one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona.

Like so many landmarks in the Catalan capital, this unique park was designed by “Barcelona designer” Antoni Gaudí. The actual park was built between 1900 and 1914 and designed in the specific location to ensure it was surrounded by clean air and open spaces.

There are many famous landmarks throughout Parc Güell but none more so than the Serpentine Bench. This snake of mosaic tiles forms a winding bench along the terrace level and is the perfect spot for taking pictures. This bench has an incredible view over the city and with the blue Mediterranean Sea in the background. It’s even more magical when the sun is shining. Another iconic feature is the mosaic salamander statute at the entrance gates to Park Güell. Also known as El Drac, the dragon and the Park Güell lizard, it acts as the guard of the Park.

When you visit the park, make sure you leave enough time for a stroll. Outside the statues area, you can enjoy the colourful flowers and plants of the park.

Park Güell is open between 9am and 7:30pm every day with tickets costing 10€ for adults, and down to 7€ depending on your age category.

10. Pink Lake in Torrevieja

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In the beautiful region of Torrevieja lies a hidden gem for those looking for unique natural wonders, the Pink Lake. Known locally as “Laguna Rosa,” this stunning salt lake boasts a distinctive bubble-gum pink hue. This fascinating spectacle is created by algae and bacteria thriving in its saline waters.

The best time to visit Pink Lake in Torrevieja is during late spring or early summer, when the vibrant pink colour is most brilliant.

However, visitors need to go closer to the lake to see the pink hues, as the colour might be less apparent from a distance. The lake is quite big and has several entrances marked on Google Maps.

Visiting Pink Lake is easier with a car, as no public transport directly goes to the lake. There are buses from the nearby city of Alicante to Torrevieja and other towns in the Costa Blanca region. However, reaching the lake might require additional means of transportation from the city centre of Torrevieja.

Entrance to the Pink Lake is entirely free of charge, however, bathing in these salty waters is strictly prohibited. Engaging in such activities might result in substantial fines. 

11. Wine Tasting at Bernabeleva

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Wine tasting near Madrid is one of the most unmissable experiences in Spain. To the west, less than an hour outside of Madrid lies the Vinos de Madrid DO wine area. The area covers 54 municipalities and produces some amazing wine. It is mostly known for its grenache, tempranillo, and albarino, but several other varietals are produced as well, depending on the winery. 

Bernabeleva is one of the best wineries in the area to visit. They produce a variety of grenache and multiple other types of wine and olive oil. Visitors will need to make a reservation via email and tours are only offered from Monday to Saturday. 

A tour and tasting will take about 3 hours and costs $40. One of the best parts and unique to Bernabeleva is that you get to taste the wine straight from the barrel prior to it being bottled. In total, you get to try around 12 different wines.

After wine tasting Madrid, why not grab food and drink more wine at Bar Restaurante Valleyglesias. At this restaurant, there is the option to sample a ton of wines from the region. 

The Vinos de Madrid wine region is best done as a day trip from Madrid as there are not a ton of accommodation options in the area. There are a few guest houses such as Hacienda la Coracera if you want to stay in the area. 

12. Day trip to Toledo

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One of the most unmissable experiences in Spain has to be a day trip to Toledo, the former capital of the Spanish kingdom. Located just 70km from Madrid, it boasts a cultural heritage and historic architecture that takes you on a time travel through the long history of war and peace in Spain.

Toledo is known for its medieval charm, reflected through its well-preserved architectural landscapes. This includes ancient bridges, monuments, and stone walls. A stroll through the historic centre reveals a fusion of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences. This is seen in the city’s numerous churches, mosques, synagogues, and ancient city gates. Hence why it’s referred to as the city of three cultures.

You can book a guided, round-trip day trip on a bus from Madrid’s central square. After reaching Toledo, you’ll ascend a series of escalators to reach the fortified city at an altitude of 614ft. The guide will then take you on a walking tour of this charming city. You’ll get to see inspiring landmarks like Toledo Cathedral, Townhall, the monastery of San Juan and the medieval bridges of Toledo. You can then relish some Paella on a lunch break and shop in the Toledo market.

After that, you can purchase entry tickets to the landmarks of your choice. The Toledo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is an awe-inspiring sight with its intricate carvings and towering spires. The Alcázar of Toledo, a majestic fortress situated on a hilltop, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.

13. Architecture by Antoni Gaudi

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Antoni Gaudi was a brilliant architect who undoubtedly shaped the landscape of Barcelona. The architecture of Gaudi is so distinctive for Spain that marvelling at its beauty is one of the best experiences while visiting the country.

Gaudi is known for including elements of nature in his work and playing with shapes and colours. There are multiple designs by Gaudi in Barcelona from lesser-known residential buildings to the world-renowned Sagrada Familia. This stunning piece of architecture is probably one of the most famous Catholic Churches in the whole world and the reason many tourists visit this vibrant city. 

Admiring the facade of the buildings is free, but you have to pay an entrance fee to see the inside. The prices are between 10€ and 30€. The Sagrada Familia is the most expensive site, Park Güell is the cheapest and the residential buildings with different exhibits inside are in between.

Gaudi died aged 73, in Barcelona in 1926, before he could see his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, finished. In fact, even to this day this impressive church is still not completed. But construction should come to an end within the next few years.

And if you want to see how far along the construction of Gaudi’s masterpiece has come, you can book your stay at one of the highest-rated hotels in Barcelona, El Palace Hotel. It is right in the heart of the city and only a short ride away from Sagrada Familia.

14. Cosmo Caixa

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Cosma Caixa is one of Barcelona’s hidden gems and well worth a visit, especially if you’re a science fanatic or animal lover.

Located in northwest Barcelona, the Museo de la Ciencia CosmaCaixa is primarily a science museum which has showcases a whole host of interactive exhibits and activities no matter your interests. In 2019, it installed a new exhibit focussing on the Universe where you can learn about everything from the big bang to the present day. The best part of this section of the museum was that there were so many interactive exhibits which provided great entertainment throughout.

The other main section at CosmaCaixa was the Flooding Forest and this was also highly enjoyable. This Amazonian-like climate had everything from humongous trees and vines to artificial rainfall. However, the best feature was the ability to see underwater which allowed you to see all the animals swimming around. From turtles to piranhas to baby crocodiles, it really was like looking into the Amazon River.

The museum is open between 10am and 8pm every day, including holidays (part from Christmas and New Years Day). As it’s run by the local la Caixa foundation, who aim to keep it accessible to as many people as possible, only charge 6€ for adults and free for children under 16.

Due to it’s somewhat remoteness, it can take nearly 45 minutes to get here via bus from down Barcelona. Bus numbers H2, H4, V13, V15, V17, V17, 22, 73, 75 & 196 all get you to this great experience.

15. Caminito del Rey

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Caminito del Rey is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Andalusia, located about 60km from Malaga. It’s a 7.7km long, one-way scenic trail that runs through cliffs, canyons, and a large valley. Once it was considered as one of the most dangerous trails in the world, but don’t worry it’s a perfectly safe hike now!

The trail starts in the municipality of Ardales and finishes in the municipality of Alora. Caminito del Rey offers a unique experience of walking along walkways hanging over 100 metres up on a sheer cliff face. It’s a perfect option for a one-day hike, for people of all fitness levels, but it isn’t recommended for people with a fear of heights. 

About two to four hours are needed to finish the walk, depending on the pace and number of stops along the trail. Self-guided ticket for the Caminito del Rey costs 10€ and 18€ for a guided visit. Tickets should be bought in advance on the website.

The easiest and fastest way to get to Caminito del Rey is by car. Another option is to take the train to El Chorro station in Alora, and then catch the shuttle bus to El Kiosko restaurant car park. “Apartamentos Ardales” is a great and not too expensive option for a comfortable stay near Caminito del Rey. 

16. Visit the Plaza de España in Seville

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Located in the old town of Seville, the Plaza de España is one of the most iconic landmarks not only in Seville, but perhaps in the whole of Spain.

The Plaza de España is a square surrounded by a huge and beautiful semicircular building, where both the square and the building are decorated with colourful mosaics. In front of the building, there is a canal, on which boating is also possible. Another popular activity in the old town is horse-drawn carriage rides, with many decorated carriages in the square.

Plaza de España, built in 1928, was originally created as a symbol of Spain’s history and its relationship with the American colonies. The Plaza de España is located in the beautiful park called Parque de María Luisa, close to other Seville attractions such as the Torre del Oro, the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda.

Seville is easily accessible by car from Málaga, Cádiz, and Portugal by highway, which means a visit to Seville can easily be planned as part of a road trip to Spain or the Iberian Peninsula. Moreover, it is connected to Madrid by a fast train network and is also accessible by air.

When traveling to Seville, it’s advisable to book accommodation near the old town. The Hotel Giralda Center is recommended as one of these hotels, located just a few minutes walk from the city’s best attractions, including Plaza de España.

Visiting Plaza de España is free, only boat rentals and horse-drawn carriages require payment. Nevertheless, Seville as a whole is a relatively cheap European destination that is definitely worth adding to the bucket list!

17. Gracia Festival in Barcelona

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The Festa Major de Gràcia, also known as the Gràcia Festival, is one of Barcelona’s biggest and most colourful festivals. It’s held in the Gràcia neighbourhood of Barcelona. The event takes place over a week from the middle of August, and is a must-see if you visit Barcelona in August.

During the festival, the local residents decorate their streets with elaborate themes, creating models of dinosaurs, fairytale creatures and all sorts of wonderful designs to match the theme. Streets compete for the best theme and decoration, and clearly a lot of work goes into the designs.

As well as admiring the decorations, there’s live music stages, traditional dances, and various cultural activities for all ages throughout the festival. One of the highlights is performances from the Castellers, who build human towers by standing on each other’s shoulders in gravity-defying displays.

The Gràcia Correfoc Fire Run is another popular event. Here, people dress up as devils and demons and parade through the streets with fireworks, spraying sparks all over the place and chasing thrill-seeking onlookers. It’s part terrifying, part exhilarating but a lot of fun! The fire department follows the parade, making sure any stray embers are taken care of. If you watch the correfoc choose your clothes carefully to protect yourself from the sparks!

18. Pilot Whale watching in Tenerife

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Located in the middle of the expansive Atlantic Ocean, Tenerife is a beautiful volcanic island and a popular European holiday destination. This is in part due to Tenerife’s stunning climate and variety of day trip options.

As the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has plenty to do. From exploring Mt Teide National Park to relaxing on black sand beaches. But spotting majestic pilot whales here is the best thing to do in Tenerife and one of the most unmissable experiences in Spain.

The Atlantic Ocean is home to a myriad of cetaceans including humpback whales, Risso’s dolphins, orca and sperm whales. Short-finned pilot whales are actually a species of dolphin and the most frequently spotted cetacean off the coast of Tenerife.

To protect pilot whales from overexposure to humans, which can lead to stress and fatigue, whale-watching boats are only allowed 15 minutes with a pod before moving on. This is plenty of time to see these unique cetaceans in their natural habitat. It also provides ample opportunity to also explore the beautiful coastal areas and stop for a snorkel too. You can be sure your tour is an ethical one by making sure the company is licensed to whale watch and carries a Barco Azul/Blue Boat flag.

The best time to see pilot whales in Tenerife is between November and February each year, although other species can be seen all year round. Pilot whale-watching trips leave from harbour towns along Tenerife’s south coast, including from Los Gigantes, Los Cristianos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Adeje. All of which cost roughly around 27€.

19.  Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery in Madrid

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One of the best experiences in Spain is Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery in Madrid. With more than 120
acres and 5 million people buried here, it’s one of the largest cemeteries in Europe.

Considered a beautiful outdoor art gallery by cemetery enthusiasts, Our Lady of Almudena is not scary
or morbid. Visitors appreciate the tranquillity, history, monuments, sculptures, and statues. Students of
architecture love the variety of styles dating back to the 19th century. They include neo-gothic, neo-
romantic, neo-classic, modernist, and eclectic.

Please note that Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery is not located at the more well-known Our Lady of
Almudena Cathedral. Also known as the Cementeria de Nuestra Seniora de La Almudena, this cemetery
is located in the Ciudad Lineal District of Madrid. Specifically, Avenida de Daroca, 90, 28017.
Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery may be off the beaten path of Madrid attractions. But this hidden gem
is worth the drive via Uber or other public transportation. And it’s free to visit.

Open year-round to the public, Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery’s hours are 8am to 7:30pm in the
spring and summer. In the fall and winter, they close at 6:30pm and they offer guided tours in October
and November.

Our Lady of Almudena Cemetery as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world to visit.

20. Climbing Mount Teide

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Do you know where the highest peak in Spain is located? Welcome to the Canary Islands, specifically to Tenerife, where Mount Teide awaits an incredible adventure.

The peak of the volcano Teide is 3715m above sea level and you can get there with more or less adrenaline, depending on what you’re looking for (and your physical conditions). If you don’t have much time, you can climb up to 3555m by cable car which costs 40€ for a round-trip. You can then make the last stretch by walking up to the peak. If you do choose to climb up to the peak, you’ll need to request a free permit to do so. And if you’re looking for a true adventure, you may ascend to Volcano Teide’s peak by foot in a single trek of approximately five-and-a-half hours when the Altavista Refuge reopens again.

Conversely, if you choose not to climb at all, the landscape of La Rambleta Cable Car Station’s Viewpoint is incredible and worth it. just bear in mind that you must book the cable car tickets in advance as it sells out pretty quickly, especially in the high season.

The climbing rewards you with breathtaking views of Teide’s National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the road for getting to the starting point has several viewpoints where you can appreciate its grandeur.

If you want to stay as close as possible to Spain’s rooftop, enjoy the volcano’s views from your room while enjoying breakfast in Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide, located in the middle of the National Park. 

21. Mezquita in Cordoba

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The stunning Mezquita in Cordoba in southern Spain is one of the most unique architectural masterpieces in the entire world.

La Mezquita is a mosque-church that never stops fascinating its visitors. The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is among the most beautiful monuments in the world. As such, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. 

La Mesquita was a Visigothic church, which Moors converted into a mosque later, and Christians remodelled into a cathedral after the Christian Reconquista of Spain. Today visitors admire its gorgeous unique mix of styles. The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is best known for its marvellous granite, jasper, and marble columns with red-white Moorish architecture. 

Apart from Mezquita, Cordoba is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It is famous for its Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Spanish cultural heritage. Cordoba is the only city in the world with four World Heritage sites! History buffs, art, and architecture lovers rave about the beauty of Cordoba! Trust us, you’ll do the same after touring Mezquita and visiting Córdoba, Spain!

Exploring the gorgeous Mezquita is among the best things to do in Cordoba. The admission fee for visiting Mezquita is 13€. Mezquita’s ticket office in the courtyard of Mezquita. 

22. Party in Ibiza!

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Ibiza offers an unparalleled nightlife scene that is vibrant, diverse, and non-stop. From world-renowned clubs hosting top-tier DJs to beachfront bars pulsating with energy, the island has something for every music enthusiast.

The legendary clubs, such as Pacha, Amnesia, and O Beach, consistently deliver extraordinary parties that extend from sunset to sunrise. The atmosphere is electric, making it one of the Top Party Destinations in Europe. People come from all corners of the globe to celebrate life and dance the night away and these immensely popular clubs.

Apart from its unparalleled nightlife, Ibiza boasts stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. During the day, partygoers can unwind and soak up the sun on Playa d’en Bossa or explore the secluded coves along the coast. Ibiza’s captivating sunsets are renowned worldwide and are best enjoyed from iconic spots like Cafe Mambo or Subset Strip.

When it comes to accommodations, one highly recommended hotel is the Ushuaia Ibiza Beach Hotel. Located in Playa d’en Bossa, this luxurious beachfront property offers a unique experience by combining world-class accommodation with an incredible party atmosphere. With its popular pool parties and live performances, Ushaia has become a go-to destination for party lovers seeking an all-inclusive experience right at their doorstep.

Overall, partying in Ibiza is an essential activity for anyone with Spain on their bucket list. It offers a thrilling blend of exceptional nightlife, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a captivating atmosphere. With its famous clubs and beautiful beaches Ibiza is the ultimate destination to let loose, dance until dawn and create lifelong memories. So, pack your dancing shoes and get ready to experience the ultimate party paradise.

23. Kayaking in Nerja

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One of the most incredible experiences to be had in Spain is kayaking in Nerja.

What is there not to love about relaxing on beautiful turquoise waters and exploring the picturesque coastline of the Costa del Sol?! You’ll end up passing many a secluded beach so make sure to bring some snorkelling gear in case you want to check out the stunning marine life.

Kayaks can be rented as both part of a tour and independently. If the latter, it’s recommended to hire for at least two hours so you can reach Maro Beach and get back. If you paddle for longer, you can cross into the Granada province and reach the cliffs of Cerro Gordo and La Herradura Bay.

Besides Burriana Beach, you can rent kayaks at Maro Beach, but getting there requires a car from Nerja. Nonetheless, it’s still one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.

The closest airport to Nerja is Malaga International Airport (AGP) and from there, it is a 50-minute drive. There are many nice hotels in the area, but a unique experience is to stay in Parador de Nerja between Burriana Beach and the historic centre.

24. Royal Palace of Aranjuez

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Every season, the Spanish Royal Family would move its court to a different location that better suited the climate, and in spring it was the Royal Palace of Aranjuez.

Just south of Madrid, the monumental building was constructed with a dream of rivalling the Palace of Versailles in France, and it certainly comes close. Touring the interior, visitors will see the luxurious detail the rooms are decorated in. One of the highlights is the Porcelain Room, where the walls and ceilings are covered in ornate ceramics.

But visiting the Royal Palace of Aranjuez is about more than just the building. Its gardens are also some of its main attractions, and one of the reasons it was listed as a World Heritage Site. The small Parterre Garden is beautifully manicured with flowerbeds and fountains; the Island Garden is larger with thick hedges, meandering paths, and imposing statues; and then there’s the Prince’s Garden that is so enormous it was used for hunting.

There’s enough to see to justify staying overnight. For accommodation, one of the best places to stay is the Hotel NH Collection Palacio de Aranjuez, a luxurious four-star hotel on the main square in front of the palace’s entrance.

25. Cider Tradition in Oviedo

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The charming Spanish city of Oviedo is a special place to visit for many reasons, including its fascinating cider tradition.

Witnessing the art of escanciar, the traditional way of pouring cider in the Spanish region of Asturias, is one of the best things to do in Oviedo. It’s a unique tradition that sets Asturian cider apart and an unmissable experience if you find yourself in Northern Spain.

Asturian cider stands out for being flat and non-fizzy. The skilled escanciador (the cider pourer) pours it from above their head, creating delightful bubbles that elevate the flavour. It starts as the cider cascades into the glass, when you can enjoy the aromas of the cider, making it a sensory experience that captures the essence of Asturian culture.

Why not also get lost in the quaint narrow lanes of Oviedo Old Town, and step into the lively sidrerías where you can indulge in the rich flavours of Asturian cider. A great option is Tierra Astur, a renowned sidrería that showcases the art of pouring cider with finesse and flair. In Oviedo, embracing the tradition of cider pouring is not just about a drink; it’s an enchanting experience that will leave you with cherished memories. 

It’s recommended to stay in the Gran Hotel España, nestled on the edge of the Old Town. It offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding hills and it’s just steps away from sidrerías. 

26. Visiting Pueblo Blancos

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Travellers looking for an authentic experience in Spain need to add the whitewashed towns of Pueblo Blancos to their must-visit list.

Located in Southern Spain, these white-painted buildings and cobblestone streets characterise these small towns and villages. Although many towns are on the mountainside, a few are by the coast too.

Each Pueblo Blanco has something unique. For example, some are famous for their food products like olive oil and sugarcane honey or handicrafts like beautiful ceramic tiles and objects. Wandering around these towns offers a different cultural experience than big cities.

Pueblos Blancos are mainly associated with the towns in Malaga and Cadiz, but the truth is that travellers can find other white-painted towns across Andalucia. Malaga has many picturesque whitewashed towns. Frigiliana, for example, is officially recognised as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. Located less than an hour’s drive from Malaga, the town offers beautiful coastal and mountain views, picturesque cobblestone streets and lovely rooftop terraces to enjoy a glass of Sangria and delicious tapas.

For travellers visiting Frigiliana, it’s worth staying in Nerja, just a short 10-minute drive away. Balcón de Europa Hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms in the centre and near the beach, making it the perfect accommodation for a summer holiday.

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Walking the Camino de Santiago is a not-to-miss experience in Spain. For centuries, this pilgrimage route has been attracting people from all over the world. It is the most popular modern Christian pilgrimage route.

The Camino de Santiago has many routes. They start in different parts of Spain and Europe, and all end at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which is known as the burial place of the Apostle St.James. This modern-time pilgrimage route offers a unique way to see the country and get to know its culture and people. Nowadays, there are very few places in the world where one can cross the country on foot without using any navigation. Yellow arrows and scallop shells painted on sidewalks, walls, and ground mark the Camino de Santiago.

Walking the Camino is a slow way of traveling. One has time to see not only the major attractions but non-touristy places and experience the country in a different non-touristy way. 

People who walk the Camino can stay in designated hostels for pilgrims called albergues. The price of a bed in an Albergue is between 8€ and 12€. Albergues are very social places where pilgrims meet, cook together, and share their Camino experiences.

Parador Hostal Reis Catolicos at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela is a great place to stay after completing a long-distance pilgrimage. 

…

There you have it, all the unmissable experiences to add to your Span bucket list! From eating paella in Valencia to climbing Mount Teide to experiencing all Barcelona has to offer, there is so much to enjoy in Spain no matter your preferences. Having Spain travel to Madrid and Barcelona, we absolutely loved the Spanish culture and particularly couldn’t get enough Sangria and olives!

Did you enjoy your visit to Spain as much as we did? Let us know in the comments below!

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