Spain 🇪🇸

Seville, Malaga, Bilbao, Madrid, Barcelona

Sevilla

Sevilla is the vibrant capital of Andalusia in southern Spain, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and passionate culture. It’s a city where the old and the new intertwine seamlessly, offering visitors a journey through time while also embracing modern Spanish life.

• The Alcázar of Seville

• Seville Cathedral

• Plaza de España

• Barrio Santa Cruz

• Metropol Parasol / Las Setas

• Flamenco: Seville is the heart of flamenco music and dance. Whether you see a passionate performance at a tablao or catch an impromptu street performance, the energy is electric.

• Food and Drink: Seville is famous for its tapas culture. Dishes like jamón ibérico, tortilla española, and salmorejo (a cold tomato-based soup) are staples, often enjoyed with a glass of sherry (particularly fino or manzanilla) from the nearby Jerez region.

Malaga

Málaga is a coastal gem in southern Spain, located on the Mediterranean Sea, and is the capital of the province of the same name in Andalusia. It's one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history dating back more than 2,800 years. Known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and vibrant arts scene, Málaga blends history with modernity in a way that makes it a fascinating destination for visitors.

• Alcazaba of Málaga

• Gibralfaro Castle

• Málaga Cathedral/La Manquita

• Picasso Museum

• Plaza de la Merced

• La Malagueta Beach

• Atarazanas Market

• Museo Carmen Thyssen

• Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción)

• Bilbao’s Bridges

• Plaza Moyúa

• Bilbao Fine Arts Museum

• Mount Artxanda

• Basilica of Begoña

• Azkuna Zentroa

Bilbao

Bilbao, located in the heart of Spain's Basque Country, is a dynamic city known for its mix of modern architecture, industrial heritage, and rich cultural traditions. Once an industrial powerhouse, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, emerging as a vibrant hub of art, design, and innovation. Its unique blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge contemporary style makes it one of Spain's most intriguing cities.

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Bilbao's transformation, the Guggenheim Museum is a striking piece of contemporary architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Its undulating titanium curves and innovative design make it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Inside, the museum features a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, with exhibitions that include works from both international and Basque artists.

• Casco Viejo (Old Town): Bilbao’s historic heart, Casco Viejo, is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings, charming shops, and traditional Basque taverns. Here, you can visit Plaza Nueva, a beautiful neoclassical square, and explore the city’s most famous markets, like Mercado de la Ribera.

• Basque Cuisine: Bilbao is a paradise for food lovers, particularly if you’re keen to explore Basque gastronomy. The city is famous for its pintxos (small tapas-like dishes), which are often served in bars throughout the Casco Viejo. You can sample regional specialties like bacalao a la vizcaína (salted cod in a rich red sauce), txangurro (spider crab), and merluza (hake). Don’t forget to try a glass of txakoli, the local Basque white wine.

La Sagrada Família:

No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting La Sagrada Família, the iconic basilica designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Still under construction after more than 100 years, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Its intricate facades, organic shapes, and symbolic elements leave visitors in awe, both inside and out. Book tickets in advance, as this is one of the most popular attractions in the city.

Park Güell:

Another of Gaudí's famous creations, Park Güell is a whimsical public park filled with colorful mosaics, sculptures, and panoramic views of Barcelona. The park’s centerpiece is a serpentine bench that wraps around a plaza with spectacular views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The park also includes the Gaudí House Museum, where you can learn more about the architect's life and work.

La Rambla:

La Rambla is a tree-lined street that cuts through the heart of Barcelona, stretching from Plaça de Catalunya down to the Port Vell (the old port). Lined with shops, cafés, street performers, and kiosks, it's the city's most famous pedestrian promenade. Be sure to stop at La Boqueria Market, one of the best markets in Europe, where you can sample fresh produce, tapas, and seafood.

Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic):

The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s historic heart, with narrow, winding streets and medieval buildings that date back to Roman times. Here, you can explore landmarks like Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, and Plaça Sant Jaume, where you'll find the City Hall and the Palace of the Generalitat. The area is full of charming squares, hidden cafés, and shops, making it an ideal place to wander and get lost.

Casa Batlló & Casa Milà (La Pedrera):

Two of Gaudí’s most famous buildings, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera), are located along Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city's most elegant streets. Casa Batlló is a stunning example of modernist architecture, with its undulating façade and vibrant colors. Casa Milà is known for its organic, wave-like forms and rooftop sculptures. Both buildings are UNESCO World Heritage sites and can be visited for an up-close look at Gaudí’s genius.

Montjuïc Hill:

For breathtaking views of the city and the harbor, head to Montjuïc Hill. At the top, you’ll find a range of attractions, including Montjuïc Castle, the Olympic Stadium, and the Magic Fountain (which puts on a stunning light and water show at night). You can take a cable car to the top of the hill for a scenic ride with panoramic views.

Beachfront:

Barcelona’s Mediterranean coastline offers several beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing break from sightseeing. Barceloneta Beach is the most famous, with its lively atmosphere, beachfront bars (chiringuitos), and plenty of sunbathing space. If you prefer something quieter, head to Ocata Beach in Mataró, just a short train ride north of the city.

El Raval:

One of Barcelona's most diverse neighborhoods, El Raval is full of vibrant street art, trendy bars, and multicultural influences. The area is also home to the famous MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Rambla del Raval, a lively street with outdoor cafés and street performers. The neighborhood has a unique blend of gritty charm and modern artistic flair.

Museums:

Barcelona is rich in cultural history, with numerous museums to explore:

• Museu Picasso: Home to an extensive collection of works by Pablo Picasso, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It’s housed in several medieval buildings in the Gothic Quarter.

• Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC): Set on Montjuïc Hill, this museum boasts a vast collection of Romanesque and Gothic art, as well as works by Catalan artists like Joan Miró and Ramon Casas.

• Fundació Joan Miró: Dedicated to the works of Catalan surrealist artist Joan Miró, this modern art museum offers a colorful and immersive experience.

Food & Drink:

Barcelona is a food lover's paradise, with influences from both Catalan and Mediterranean cuisines. Be sure to try:

• Tapas: Small plates of food like patatas bravas, croquettes, and jamón ibérico.

• Paella

• Churros con chocolate

• Catalan Cream (Crema Catalana): A custard dessert similar to crème brûlée, flavored with orange zest and cinnamon.

• Mercado de la Boqueria

Nightlife:

Barcelona’s nightlife is legendary, ranging from lively beach bars to chic rooftop clubs. Popular nightlife areas include:

• El Born: A trendy area with tapas bars, cocktail lounges, and small clubs.

• Port Olímpic: Near the beach, this area is home to several large nightclubs, where you can dance to electronic and Latin music.

• Poble Sec: Known for its traditional tapas bars and flamenco shows, this neighborhood has a more authentic vibe.

Day Trips:

Barcelona is well-connected to a variety of interesting day trips:

• Montserrat: A stunning mountain range just outside of Barcelona, home to a Benedictine monastery and beautiful hiking trails.

• Sitges: A charming beach town located 35 km south of Barcelona, known for its lively cultural scene and Mediterranean beaches.

• Tarragona: A historic city with ancient Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater overlooking the sea.