Things to Do in Spain

Travelers exploring Spanish landscapes, beaches, historic cities and cultural attractions across Spain
Spain offers endless experiences—from world-famous monuments and museums to beaches, hiking trails, food tours and hidden villages.

Things to Do in Spain

Spain is one of the most diverse travel destinations in the world. It combines Mediterranean beaches, dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient cities, world-class museums, delicious regional cuisines, vibrant nightlife, and deep cultural traditions. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or exploring the country for weeks, Spain offers more memorable experiences than almost any destination in Europe.

This expanded guide (2600+ words) highlights Spain’s top attractions and activities in detail—covering major cities, regional specialties, hidden gems, nature escapes, seasonal highlights, food experiences and adventure activities. It is written with local knowledge and optimized for 2025 search standards.

It also connects with the rest of our Spain guide series:

Top 12 Essential Things to Do in Spain

  1. Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and visit the Sagrada Familia.
  2. See the Alhambra in Granada, Spain’s most magical palace.
  3. Walk Madrid’s Art Triangle (Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen).
  4. Eat pintxos in San Sebastián’s Parte Vieja.
  5. Watch a flamenco performance in Seville’s Triana district.
  6. Relax on Mediterranean or Atlantic beaches.
  7. Visit white villages (pueblos blancos) in Andalusia.
  8. Go wine tasting in La Rioja & Ribera del Duero.
  9. Hike Montserrat or Picos de Europa.
  10. Experience Spanish nightlife in Madrid or Barcelona.
  11. Explore Canary Islands’ volcanic landscapes.
  12. Visit medieval towns like Toledo, Segovia and Cáceres.

Explore Spain’s Most Iconic Attractions

1. Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)

Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece is unlike any other religious building in the world. Its interior columns resemble a stone forest and the façades depict biblical scenes in sculptural detail. Visiting early morning or sunset gives the best light.

2. The Alhambra (Granada)

A UNESCO treasure with Nasrid palaces, courtyards, fountains and gardens overlooking the Sierra Nevada. Sunset from the Mirador de San Nicolás is one of Spain’s most memorable views.

3. Royal Palace (Madrid)

One of Europe’s largest palaces with grand halls, royal armory, frescoes and ceremonial rooms.

4. Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao)

Frank Gehry’s titanium landmark holds modern art exhibitions and symbolizes the Basque Country's transformation.

5. The Mezquita (CĂłrdoba)

A mosque-cathedral with endless red-and-white arches and one of the world’s most unique architectural blends.

Historic Cities & Medieval Towns

Toledo

The “City of Three Cultures”—Christian, Jewish and Muslim influences—full of vintage streets, ancient walls and panoramic viewpoints.

Segovia

Home to the Roman Aqueduct, the fairytale Alcázar and some of Spain’s best roast meats.

Cáceres

UNESCO-listed Old Town with medieval towers, stone mansions and peaceful plazas.

Santiago de Compostela

The final stop of the Camino pilgrimage route, with a cathedral rich in history.

Beaches & Coastal Experiences

Spain’s coastlines are incredibly diverse—Mediterranean coves, Atlantic surf beaches, white sand strips and volcanic shores. For detailed guides, see Beaches in Spain.

Best Coastal Regions

  • Costa Brava: Rugged cliffs and turquoise coves.
  • Costa Blanca: Calm, family-friendly beaches.
  • Costa del Sol: Long sandy beaches and nightlife.
  • Costa de la Luz: Wild Atlantic coastline and wind sports.

Island Beaches

  • Mallorca: Deep bays, cliffs and crystal coves.
  • Ibiza: Stunning turquoise calas.
  • Lanzarote: Golden beaches + volcanic scenery.
  • Fuerteventura: Endless dunes and surf beaches.

Outdoor & Nature Activities

Hiking

  • Picos de Europa: Alpine-style peaks and gorges.
  • Ordesa National Park: One of Europe’s top hiking destinations.
  • Montserrat (Catalonia): Iconic rock formations.
  • Camino de Santiago routes: Historic pilgrimage trails.

Water Activities

  • Kayaking Costa Brava: Explore sea caves and dramatic cliffs.
  • Diving in Tenerife: Volcanic underwater landscapes.
  • Surfing in the Basque Country: Zarautz, Mundaka and Sopelana.

Mountain & Adventure Sports

  • Skiing in Sierra Nevada: Europe’s southernmost ski resort.
  • Paragliding in Madrid countryside: Sierra de Guadarrama views.
  • Cycling in Mallorca: A world-famous training destination.

Food & Wine Experiences

Tapas Tours

Tapas culture is essential in Spain. Some of the best tapas districts include:

  • Madrid – La Latina, Malasaña
  • Barcelona – El Born, GrĂ cia
  • Seville – Triana, Santa Cruz

For more dining details, visit Spain Restaurants.

Pintxos in San Sebastián

Try creative small plates in Parte Vieja, many of which rival fine dining restaurants.

Wine Regions

  • La Rioja: Tempranillo wines & historic cellars.
  • Ribera del Duero: Powerful red wines.
  • Penedès: Known for cava sparkling wines.

Food Workshops

  • Paella class in Valencia
  • Olive oil tasting in Andalusia
  • JamĂłn ibĂ©rico cutting workshop in Madrid

Local Markets & Shopping Experiences

  • La Boqueria (Barcelona): Fresh produce & tapas stalls.
  • Mercado de San Miguel (Madrid): Spanish gourmet tasting stalls.
  • Valencia Central Market: One of Europe’s largest indoor markets.

Nightlife & Evening Experiences

Spain’s nightlife is globally famous. Bars, music, flamenco, beach clubs and nighttime dining create unforgettable evenings. Learn more at Spain Nightlife.

  • Flamenco in Seville’s Triana.
  • Rooftop bars in Madrid.
  • Beachfront sunset bars in Barcelona & Ibiza.

Hidden Gems & Less-Known Experiences

  • AlbarracĂ­n: Pink stone medieval village.
  • Ronda: Mountain city with famous bridge.
  • Cudillero (Asturias): Colorful fishing village.
  • BesalĂş (Catalonia): Romanesque bridge & medieval center.

Seasonal Things to Do in Spain

Spring (March–May)

  • Orange blossoms in Seville.
  • Wine region tours.
  • City festivals and Easter processions.

Summer (June–August)

  • Beach days on the Mediterranean & Balearics.
  • Summer music festivals (BenicĂ ssim, SĂłnar).
  • Hiking in Pyrenees and Asturias.

Autumn (September–November)

  • Grape harvest in La Rioja.
  • Warm coastal weather in AndalucĂ­a.
  • City exploration without summer crowds.

Winter (December–February)

  • Skiing in Sierra Nevada.
  • Christmas markets in Spanish cities.
  • Warm weather in Canary Islands.