Spain – more specifically, Spaniards – have a reputation for being hot-blooded, romantic, fun-loving and absolutely gorgeous. What more could you want in a country? Seems like that would be enough to book a one-way ticket, or at least a few days at this uber-popular European country.
With its rich, colorful and occasionally sordid history, Spain makes a fascinating place to visit. The country is also exceptionally beautiful, and provides you with no end of things to do and sights to see.
For starters, there is the capital, Madrid. Here you will be treated to some of the incredible architecture and art that make the city so famous. In addition to the multitude of art galleries, the many historical sights here are home to priceless, timeless works of art.
Be sure to leave plenty of time to see the Royal Palace, a sprawling structure that has seen centuries of history and change in Spain. Spain’s long religious history has been well-chronicled in the history books, and much great art has come out of this tradition, bloody and brutal though it is.
Travelers who have spent time in Spain will advise that one city you don’t want to miss is Barcelona. Everything you could possibly want in a city is found here: history, culture, nightlife; sophistication, modernity and tradition. The most famous sight to see in Barcelona is the Sagrada Familiar, the famous church to which thousands of visitors regularly flock. Even if you are not religious, the wondrous design and artistic elements of the structure will leave you in awe of their craft and beauty.
To see the best of one of Spain’s most popular cities, you can try a Hop on Hop off bus tour for Barcelona. The city is well known for its own rollicking culinary and party scenes, but one should not ignore that it is also a place of great industry. It’s the consummate first-world city, with a bit of something for everyone and and all-around good quality of life.
Another place not to miss in Spain is San Sebastian, a coastal town in the northern Basque part of the country. It is known for its sweeping, breathtaking views of the sea, and for some truly incredible cuisine. Here you will find some of the best dishes in all of Europe, so plan your budget and your meals accordingly.
Leave yourself several days in this beautiful seaside town, as there are numerous areas and enclaves you will want to explore. And again you’ll find architecture and structures that will leave you speechless at the sheer artistry and brilliance that went into making them.
Because of all the wondrous sights and cities and places to see, you’ll want to leave yourself ample time to really enjoy everything and take it all in. Of course, Spain is on the Euro and it is not a cheap country to visit so bear this in mind when doing you’re planning. But above all, go and enjoy it, as it truly is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place to spend some time. You’ll meet many a traveler who will tell you Spain was their favorite country to see in Europe, and is a place they would return to again and again.