85 incredible things to see and do in Spain

If you're seeking the ultimate guide to explore the breathtaking wonders of Spain, you're in the right place. Imagine uncovering 85 remarkable sites, each nestled within the distinct cultures of Spain's diverse Autonomous Communities. But first, let’s reflect on the journey that has brought us here…

This post has been in our drafts for what feels like an eternity, waiting for the perfect moment to be shared. Spain—our beloved country—has always been there to discover. However, everything changed during the pandemic. We found ourselves trapped at home, battling an invisible enemy while our beautiful Spain stood alone, waiting for our return.

Now that the world is slowly reopening, it’s time to dream about all the places we'll visit when we can finally roam again. We believe that when the day comes, it will be a celebration of all the adventures we left behind. Just like Italy—an equally cherished destination—Spain holds countless treasures waiting to be explored.

85 incredible things to see and do in Spain (organized by communities)

In this article, we present 85 unforgettable places to visit in Spain, categorized by Autonomous Communities, with five highlights from each region. And let's not forget the 86th: indulge in the culinary delights of Spain! To get a taste, check out the typical dishes to try in Spain.

Note: The communities are listed in alphabetical order, and while we’ve chosen some of the top sites, there are many more worth visiting. If your favorite isn’t mentioned, don’t hesitate to share it in the comments. We’re lucky to live in such a marvelous country!

So, buckle up as we embark on this exciting journey through the enchanting landscapes of Spain!

1. Exploring the Wonders of Andalucía

• Stroll through the stunning Alhambra in Granada, perhaps our favorite spot in all of Spain.
• Wander around the Plaza de España in Sevilla and snap a photo with the tile representing your province.
• Take a refreshing dip at the Playa de los Muertos in Cabo de Gata, Almería.
• Marvel at the Mezquita of Córdoba, with its 856 columns made of marble, jasper, and granite.
• Feel the adrenaline rush on the Caminito del Rey in Málaga.

2. Unearthing the Charm of Aragón

• Visit the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in Zaragoza.
• Be amazed by the "Chinese Wall" of Finestres.
• Discover the breathtaking Geopark of Sobrarbe.
• Stroll through Albarracín, one of Aragón's most beautiful villages.
• Spend a day enveloped in nature at the Monasterio de Piedra.

3. The Natural Beauty of Asturias

• Be captivated by the landscapes of the Lagos de Covadonga.
• Experience a geographical epiphany at Cudillero.
• Cross the ancient Roman bridge in Cangas de Onís.
• Swim at the Playa del Silencio, one of Asturias's finest beaches.
• Take a stroll through the charming streets of Gijón.

4. Discovering the Beauty of the Balearic Islands

• Savor the sunset from the Torre des Savinar in Ibiza, with the majestic Es Vedrá before you.
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Ses Illetes in Formentera, one of the world’s most stunning beaches.
• Don’t miss Cala Mitjana in Menorca, equally breathtaking.
• Bicycle to the photogenic Faro de Barbaria.
• Amaze yourself in the beautiful Coves del Drach in Mallorca, where nature’s beauty goes beyond beaches.

5. Adventure in the Canary Islands

• Ascend to the Teide, the highest peak in Spain, on Tenerife.
• Enjoy the stunning views at Punta Papagayo, one of the most spectacular beaches in Lanzarote.
• Stroll through the Dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, rolling in the sand.
• Dare to explore the Garajonay National Park in La Gomera.
• Marvel at the Charco Verde (or Laguna de los Clicos), feeling as though you've stepped onto another planet.

6. The Allure of Cantabria

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bahía de Santander, one of the prettiest bays in Spain.
• Embark on hiking adventures through the Picos de Europa.
• Wander the picturesque Santillana de Mar, arguably the most beautiful village in Cantabria.
• Feel small among the towering trees in the Sequoia Forest of Cabezón.
• Explore the Cueva El Soplao and uncover a world of stalactites and stalagmites.

7. The Rich Heritage of Castilla y León

• Stand in awe at the Aqueduct of Segovia.
• Relax in Puebla de Sanabria, near the beautiful homonymous lake.
• Stroll along the ancient walls of Ávila.
• Search for the hidden astronaut in the façade of the Cathedral of Salamanca.
• Be enchanted by the beauty of the Cathedral of León.

8. Exploring Castilla-La Mancha

• Discover the city of three cultures, Toledo, one of the best places to visit in Spain.
• Marvel at the Hanging Houses of Cuenca.
• Travel back in time in Sigüenza.
• Count the numerous windows in the Plaza Mayor of Almagro.
• Surround yourself with the iconic windmills of Campo de Criptana, feeling like a modern-day Don Quixote.

9. The Marvels of Cataluña

• Step inside the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, a must-see in Spain.
• Absorb the tranquility and beauty of Cadaqués.
• Get lost in the historical streets of Girona.
• Be astounded by the unique formations of Montserrat.
• Wander through the Castle of Tossa de Mar and enjoy the Mediterranean views.

10. The Vibrancy of the Valencian Community

• Pass through the Gate of Philip II into the Castle of Peñíscola, which starred in Game of Thrones.
• Take a boat ride in the Albufera Natural Park, especially breathtaking at sunset.
• Swim in the natural pools of Las Fuentes del Algar.
• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia (and feast on paella afterwards).
• Spend at least a day on Isla de Tabarca.

11. The Historical Depth of Extremadura

• Step into history at the magnificent Roman Theatre of Mérida.
• Witness the cherry blossoms in the Valley of Jerte, near Plasencia.
• Visit the Castle of Trujillo, another filming location of Game of Thrones.
• Cross the ancient Bridge of Alcántara, a witness to many historical events.
• Explore the stunning Meandro El Melero in Las Hurdes.

12. The Enchantment of Galicia

• Feel moved at the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela after trekking part of the Camino de Santiago.
• Reach the end of the world at Finisterre.
• Disconnect and savor rural tourism in Ribeira Sacra (while indulging in fine wine, of course).
• Walk through the stone arches of the Playa de las Catedrales, one of the most stunning beaches in Spain.
• Go camping in the breathtaking Cíes Islands or on Isla de Ons.

13. The Heart of Community of Madrid

• Immerse yourself in art at the museums of Madrid (if you have to choose one, go for the Reina Sofia to see Guernica).
• Visit the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
• Watch the sunset from the Temple of Debod and feel transported to Egypt.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Chinchón, arguably the most beautiful village in the region.
• Explore the Royal Palace (and its gardens) in Aranjuez, another highlight of Spain.

14. The Wine Treasures of La Rioja

• Go tapas hopping on Calle Laurel in Logroño.
• Unwind in the thermal pools of Arnedillo.
• Hike the Trail of the Canyon of the Leza River.
• Visit the Monasteries of Yuso and Suso in San Millán de la Cogolla.
• Engage in wine tourism. In La Rioja, the options are endless—from the Vivanco Wine Culture Museum to the Eguren Ugarte Winery.

15. The Richness of the Region of Murcia

• Explore the beautiful Catedral de Murcia and enjoy its eclectic architecture.
• Step onto the Roman theatre of Cartagena, one of the best-preserved in the world.
• Marvel at the curious sandstone formations of the Gredas de Bolnuevo in Mazarrón.
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors during the blossoming of Cieza.
• Although it’s facing challenges, a visit to the Mar Menor is always worthwhile.

16. The Hidden Gems of Navarra

• Discover the semi-desert landscape of Las Bardenas Reales.
• Visit the Colegiata de Roncesvalles, the starting point of the Camino de Santiago.
• Head to Olite to see its stunning castle with breathtaking views.
• Paddle through the Selva de Irati, especially vibrant in autumn.
• Don’t miss Zugarramurdi, known as the village of witches.

17. The Unique Culture of the Basque Country

• Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
• Indulge in pintxos in San Sebastián.
• Try your hand at surfing in Mundaka.
• Explore every corner of Hondarribia, one of the most beautiful towns in the Basque Country.
• Experience the magic of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a must-see in Spain.

As stated, there are millions of things to see and do in Spain that could have made this list, but space is limited! We hope the destinations we've highlighted inspire you and that soon we can all enjoy our beautiful homeland together. What are your favorite places to visit in Spain?

* Photocredit principal: Photo by Victoriano Izquierdo on Unsplash

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