Planning a trip to Spain? Then you’ll want to know more about these 25 fun Spain experiences as you map out your Spain bucket list. Whether you’re looking to fill a few spare hours or plan your whole trip, scroll down to consider these amazing things to do in Spain.
You won’t want to miss them!
Editor’s Note: We updated this article with fresh content in May of 2022.
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CONTENTS: In this article, you will learn about 25 Spain experiences that will add some fun to your itinerary. Have a look at the following things to do in Spain:
- Take A Hike in Andalusia
- See the White Villages of Andalusia
- Visit the Alhambra
- Drink A Pour of Cider in Asturias
- Crawl the Tapas Bars on Carrer Blai in Barcelona
- Cheer a Football Game at Camp Nou in Barcelona
- Admire Gaudรญโs Unique Works at Sagrada Familia and Park Gรผell, Barcelona
- Discover Delicious Vegetarian Food in Barcelona
- Enjoy Coffee & Dessert at the Harry Potter Themed Coffee Shop in Barcelona
- Sample Sherry on a Bodegas Tour in Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz)
- Enjoy Spanish Music at Festival Internacional de Benicร ssim, Castellon
- Watch Flamenco Dancing in Granada
- Walk the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, Gran Canaria
- Hike Mulhacen in the Iberian Peninsula
- Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid
- Appreciate Amazing Murals in Madrid
- Walk the Cami de Cavalls in Menorca
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
- Marvel at the Steep Cliffs in Rondo
- Have Lunch in Plaza de Espaรฑa in Seville
- Celebrate Fรฉria de Sevilla in Seville
- Take in the Drag Scene and LBBTQ+ Nightlife in Sitges
- Celebrate Las Fallas Festival in Valencia
- Cook Paella in Valencia
- Throw Tomatoes During La Tomatina
1. Take A Hike in Andalusia
By Victoria of Guide Your Travel | Instagram
Southern Spain has impressive mountain ranges and incredible scenery. Andalusia is perfect for those who love hiking and the great outdoors.
One of the things that makes this area special is that it is located very close to the coast.
So, you can combine a beach vacation with some incredible hiking.
If that sounds good to you, then head to the Axarquia, an area east of Malaga. There, you’ll discover some of the best hiking trails.
For instance, you’ll want to visit Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park.
An easy-to-manage trail suitable for beginners goes from the village of Frigiliana to the tiny town Acebuchal.
Acebuchal only has a handful of inhabitants. It’s also a great place for a delicious traditional lunch.
The village lay abandoned for more than 50 years and was rebuilt in the early 2000s. Today it is a popular place for tourists who love the rich history of Acebuchal and the quiet atmosphere.
The hike is around 9 miles (14 kms) long in total. Set aside just over 3 hours to complete this hike.
Most of it is on a decently even road.
However, make sure to avoid doing this hike in summer when temperatures are high. If you donโt want to hike the entire way, you can get a taxi to drive you to Acebucha.
Then, you’ll only have to hike the way back.
Youโll love the beautiful mountain landscape and the traditional feel of this area of Spain.
While you’re in Andalucia, you could also try this amazing Caminito del Rey Guided Tour. Then, you’ll explore some of the region’s most beautiful areas with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.
2. See the White Villages of Andalucia
By Joanna of The World in my Pocket | Facebook
A visit to the white villages of Andalucia is a must when you find yourself in the South of Spain.
There are so many of them, one more beautiful than the other, that it will be hard to choose which ones to see.
One of the most accessible white villages by public transport from Malaga, is Mijas Pueblo. They have built the beautiful village on the side of the mountain.
So, you’ll enjoy wonderful views over the entire coast!
Another fantastic village is Setenil de las Bodegas.
While most of the white villages were built on top of hills, Setenil de las Bodegas is inside a canyon. The houses inside the hill caves.
In fact, you can even spend the night in one of the cave-houses, as many have been repurposed as B&Bs.
Near Setenil de las Bodegas you will find Olvera.
Its hilltop castle offers 360 degrees panoramic views over the Cordilleras Beticas mountains.
If you choose to go to Costa Tropical, you must visit Frigiliana on the way. This beautiful white village has narrow streets decorated with ceramic mosaics.
From the highest points in the village, you can enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea.
If you plan on visiting the white villages of Andalucia starting from Cadiz, you should know that there is an official route. The route includes stops in:
- Arcos de la Frontera
- Ubrique
- Grazalema
- Zahara de la Sierra
If your closer to Marbella, then have a look at Mijas and Rhonda.
The best way to visit the white villages of Andalucia is by car, so renting a vehicle is essential.
Otherwise, you could book a private day trip from Cadiz to the ever-astonishing white villages of Andalucia.
3. Visit the Alhambra
By Roxanne of Wild About BC | Instagram
One of the most remarkable landmarks in Spain is the Alhambra in Granada.
Located in Spainโs southern region of Andalusia, this impressive palace sits on the hillside overlooking the beautiful city of Granada.
It attracts millions of visitors and is one of Spainโs most popular sites!
So, you’ll definitely want to look into taking in some Alhambra experiences.
The Alhambra dates back to 889, modestly originating as a small fortress. Then, it was expanded upon and converted into a royal palace.
Like many other impressive buildings in the region, the fortress is a unique blend of Moorish Islamic and Renaissance Christian architecture.
The beautiful gardens, impressive structures, and intricate mosaics make this a must-do activity on your next trip to Spain!
As it is the main attraction in Granada, and one of the most popular throughout the country, you should definitely book Alhambra tickets well in advance.
Tickets cost 14โฌ per adult and you can book them online.
You’ll have the option of booking a general ticket, one that includes the Generalife gardens, or one that includes the gardens and the Nasrid Palaces.
Be sure to make a note of your time slot. The Nasrid Palaces have restrictions on entry. You can only visit at your designated time, and if you’re late, you forfeit entry.
Due to its large and impressive nature, a visit to the Alhambra can take a few hours. We recommend you take a half-day to fully appreciate the palace.
You might even want to book a guided tour to fully appreciate the historic, cultural, and artistic relevance of the Alambra and grounds.
While the Alhambra is visible from most of the city since it’s on top of the hill, the best viewpoint to appreciate the Alhambra from a distance is the Mirador San Nicolรกs.
This famous lookout offers outstanding views of the Alhambra and Granada and is particularly breathtaking at sunset.
4. Drink A Pour of Cider in Asturias
By Roxanne of Faraway Worlds | Facebook
Despite its dramatic coastline and forested mountains, Asturias is one of the least visited regions in Spain.
Most people are just passing through.
Either they are walking the Camino de Santiago or on a road trip across Northern Spain.
If you do find yourself there, even if itโs just for a few hours, be sure to try their local speciality: apple cider or sidra.
The cider comes in large bottles and is cloudy. It’s slightly bitter and has a distinctive smell. You’ll find it just about everywhere in the region.
And drinking cider in Asturias is something of a ritual in itself. Watching a local pouring the cider is an experience.
Here’s why.
The pourer holds the bottle high above their heads, with the glass hovering around their knees. The point, of course, to create as much distance between the two as possible.
You’ll see the cider pours in a long stream from one to the other. It’s mesmerizing!
This apparently aerates the cider and produces a froth. Then the cider is traditionally drunk quickly (or shared). The last inch, which is usually containing sediment, is thrown to the ground before the glass is filled again.
If you want to experience this tradition for yourself, head to any bar in Gijon or Oviedo to watch the locals do it.
And donโt worry if you spill some as you learn to pour.
Between the pouring and the throwing the last bit away, plenty of cider ends up on the floor.
5. Crawl the Tapas Bars on Carrer Blai in Barcelona
By Evelina of EvBeing | Instagram
When it comes to food, Barcelona speaks volumes.
If you are looking for one of the best food experiences in Spain, or Barcelona local experiences, look no further than Carrer Blai. The Tapas Street of Barcelona features a range of tapas restaurants and bars.
Carrer Blai is the place where the locals eat.
There, you will taste delicious tapas and pintxos at affordable prices.
Pintxos are little snacks offered in a piece of bread and picked with a skewer. That’s a bit different from tapa, which is a delicious appetizer in the legendary tradition of the Spanish cuisine, taken with a toothpick.
What are tapas examples?
Tapas may include:
- Iberian ham
- Mouth-watering patatas bravas
- Padrรณn green peppers
- Tasty meat croquette
- Delicious fish
- Mixed olives and cheese
- Crispy chicken.
Career Blai offers tapas in a self-service bar. This makes it easy to pick as many as you wish.
There are many tapas bars in Career Blai. But if you’re looking for a recommendation, try La Tasqueta de Blai and Blai 9.
Tapas originates from the word ‘tapar,‘ which means cover. Tapas were familiar originally as a piece of flatbread with meat, placed on top of a drink.
While many restaurants in Barcelona may overcharge you for a meal, in Career Blai you will eat well for less. A tapas meal with a drink will cost you a minimum of โฌ10.
You could also sample a variety of different local cuisines during this amazing Tastes and Traditions Food Tour of the city.
Either way, Tapas definitely needs to be high on your bucket list experiences!
6. Cheer a Football Game at Camp Nou in Barcelona
By Dลพangir Kolar of Dr Jam Travels | Facebook
In Barcelona, it’s a special experience to watch a football/soccer game at Camp Nou.
This is the biggest soccer venue in the world with seats for 99,354 visitors.
Many big games have been played at this stadium. For example:
- The 1982 FIFA World Cup
- 1992 Olympic games
- UEFA Champions League Finals
- and many others
It is home to Futbol Club Barcelona. Part of the team is Lionel Messi, by many revered as โGod of Football.โ
You can get a ticket from โฌ30 to attend less important games. Or, pay almost 5,000 โฌ for El Classico games against Real Madrid on VIP seats.
Either way, you’ll definitely want to buy a ticket upfront.
With a ticket in your pocket, you can reach the stadium by Metro lines or Tram T1, T2, T3, and many buses.
The magic will start on the grass under strong stadium lights. On extra moves from Messi you will hear 100,000 spectators chanting โMessi, Messi, โฆโ
That might just be one of the best experiences in Barcelona!
It will give you shivers even if you are not a fan of the game.
After the game is finished in half-an-hour, the crowd will empty the venue with no problems.
You can also visit the stadium during the day. In the shop, there are jerseys with player numbers and other memorabilia. There is also a museum in this venue.
With 1.2 million visitors is the second most visited museum in the city.
So when in Barcelona, donโt leave this place out.
Because even if a game isn’t being held here, you could always do a guided 3-hour tour of the complex with a complimentary tapas tasting, too!
7. Admire Gaudรญโs Iconic Works at Sagrada Familia and Park Gรผell, Barcelona
By Antoine and Marielle of Off Beat Escapades | Instagram
Visiting Barcelona is one of the best experiences in Spain.
There is so much to see and do within this city that represents the uniqueness of Catalan culture and modernist architecture.
It is home to the work of the illustrious Antoni Gaudรญ. He created many of Barcelona’s iconic buildings.
Among the attractions by this world-renowned architect is the majestic Sagrada Familia and the colorful sight of Park Gรผell.
When you think of Barcelona, Sagrada Familia is probably the first landmark that comes to mind. It is a beautiful Basilica found in the city center.
It’s considered one of Gaudรญโs greatest (and most controversial) works.
The churchโs facade is full of intricate details that will surely take your breath away. It has been under construction for over 100 years! Interestingly, it won’t be completed for another 5 to 10 years, either.
As Sagrada Familia is one of Europeโs widely visited attractions, expect long waiting times to enter. Sometimes these lines can even reach around the block.
Hence, it is advisable to buy your tickets beforehand since entry time schedules are strictly enforced. This will ensure you donโt have to wait long.
The cost of regular admission is 20 โฌ.
Park Gรผell, on the other hand, is also another famous attraction in Barcelona created by Gaudรญ. It’s a beautiful sight to behold with all its varying shapes, colors, and styles.
The park is surrounded by lush florals and offers the most stunning view of the entire city.
As with Sagrada Familia, expect long waiting times to enter, especially during the peak hours of sunset. You’ll want to buy your tickets for the park beforehand, too.
The cost of regular admission is 10 โฌ.
8. Discover Delicious Vegetarian Food in Barcelona
By Jyoti of Story at Every Corner | YouTube
Barcelona is a dream city for foodies and for the culture and history buffs, alike.
Spain is rich with culinary experiences. So, a food tour is a great way to immerse in the culture, history and stories of the city.
All the while, you can walk, talk, and eat!
Most would think that Spanish and Catalan food is meat and fish based. Few realize that there is much to experience as a vegan or vegetarian.
With the growing number of vegans around the world, Barcelona too caters to vegans. This is not just in modern cuisines but also with traditional Catalan cuisine of Barcelona.
During a vegetarian food tour, you will get a great introduction to vegetarian & vegan foods in Barcelona and where to find the best choices.
You will:
- Learn about the mighty pintxo and nibblers like olives, cheese and nuts
- Discover the delicious tapas like empanadas, potato braves, tomato breads, pebrots de pedrรณn and so many more
- Enjoy the best churros and gelato of Barcelona
- Find out about the Barcelonaโs food snobbery, breads, and local coffee
Later, be sure to enjoy a vegan paella which is famous the world over.
It’s a must have in Barcelona.
During the food tour you will walk through some of the most famous alleys in the old quarters. You can eat at the locals gems which would be nearly impossible to find on your own.
On the walk, youโll also stop at some famous shops, like candle makers and grocers. They have stood the test of time and are prized destinations for the locals.
Youโll learn how proud Barcelonaโs residents are of their local family run stores. They cherish the locally made, high-quality goods despite the higher costs.
Once you sample them, you will see why.
Youโll find that youโll learn a lot more about life on a food tour than just the amazing food. It’s a big part of the best Barcelona experiences.
And if you prefer a non-vegetarian option in Barcelona, you could try this Spanish cooking class and Boqueria Market tour.
9. Enjoy Coffee & Dessert at the Harry Potter Themed Coffee Shop in Barcelona
By Nathalie from Boletworldwide | Instagram
If you love sweets, a good coffee and a bit of magic, then you have the perfect place to get all of it right in Barcelona.
The place is called Pudding Diagonal Cafรฉ.
It’s located in none other than Barcelonaโs diagonal avenue. Quite convenient, huh?
You can almost feel the magic from the moment you step in front of it.
Why?
I guess you already figured it out from the name, but it is Harry Potter themed. It makes you feel as though youโve stepped right into a magical world!
You’ll notice so many details. As soon as you enter this coffee shop, you will see all kinds of decorations, from books, brooms, cages with owls to a big Hogwarts mural.
Coffee and desserts are delicious, so you will want to try them all. But if you want to limit your samples to a few, try the cheesecake, lemon pie, and carrot cake.
Don’t be surprised if you want more!
Your mind is already made up to the idea of visiting, right?
There’s more you should know about the Pudding Diagonal Cafรฉ!
If youโre like Harry and Ron and enjoy a good board game, then this is your place to spend a few hours. You’ll find a large variety of board games to choose from, too.
Then, you can have a lot of fun while eating and living the full Harry Potter magic.
10. Sample Sherry on a Bodegas Tour in Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz)
By Krista of Krista the Explorer | Instagram
No trip to southern Spain would be complete without going on a Sherry bodegas tour in Jerez de la Frontera.
Jerez is the heart of Sherry production in the province of Cรกdiz. It is one of three cities that make up the famous Sherry Triangle. (The other two are Sanlรบcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa Marรญa.)
The wine itself dates back to the 13th century,
That’s when the Moors ruled over the region. For that reason, itโs considered one of the oldest wines still being made.
The Sherry Triangle is the only area in the world that can produce Sherry. This is made possible because of the climate.
You’ll find Jerez has some of the worldโs most renowned wine brands sitting in its very center.
One of the best tours you can take is with Tรญo Pepe. They offer a variety of different bodegas tours to suit your needs.
Here youโll:
- Learn about the sherry production process
- Discover the history behind the company
- Of course, get to sample some of their most popular wines at the end of the tour
Their Uncle Pepe tour takes just under 2 hours to complete. It cost only โฌ16 and includes the wine.
You really canโt go wrong with this tour, especially if youโre visiting Spain on a budget.
They offer specific tours in English, so make sure you double check that before booking.
Jerez de la Frontera is the perfect city to visit if you want to immerse yourself in Spanish culture but want to get away from the busier tourist-filled cities.
And, if you can afford a bit of a splurge, you might try this fantastic Jerez and Cadiz Wine Tasting and Horse Show Day Tour, too.
11. Enjoy Spanish Music at Festival Internacional de Benicร ssim, Castellon
By Breanne Lovatt of Family Camping Europe | Instagram
Among the unique things to do in Spain is the โFestival Internacional de Benicร ssim.โ
Itโs the annual music festival which takes place near the Spanish city of Castellon.
If youโre into live music, beaches, and exploring Spanish culture then this long weekend in the middle of July is a great way to experience it.
Benicassim is a relatively unknown Spanish seaside town. Throughout most of the year, itโs somewhat quiet. When the festival comes to town, it comes alive.
Music lovers from around the world attend the festival, but its Spanish roots are ingrained deep.
While many of the performers are international superstars, one of the 4 festival days is solely dedicated to Spanish musicians. This is a brilliant way for you to experience live Spanish music.
The first festival took place in 1995. Each year since then, it has grown and grown in popularity.
However, itโs not just about the music.
That is the main focus of the festival, but there are also events dedicated to Spanish arts, fashion, films and culture too.
You may assume the festival is only suitable for young adults. Actually, itโs fantastic for every age range and every person.
In fact, in 2018 the Spanish prime minister himself attended to watch The Killers in concert.
The best way to experience any festival is, of course, by camping. However, at FIB, it is not highly recommended. The ground is rocky, dry, and the heat is intense.
To experience FIB in the best way, your best option is to book an Airbnb or stay in a hotel.
Thankfully, ticket prices to FIB are some of the lowest cost festival tickets out there.
This means you will have a lot more pocket space to splurge on better accommodations.
12. Watch Flamenco Dancing in Granada
By Chrysoula of Travel Passionate | Instagram
Flamenco dancing is a tradition in Andalusia that began in the 18th century.
The first performances took place in coffee shops and became popular with workers, poets, and musicians. Flamenco became so popular that the first contests were held in 1922.
Today, Flamenco is as popular as it ever was. It is a โmust-seeโ for many visitors to the city.
You’ll find it performed in many places, both inside and out on terraces. They always put on the show to a relatively small audience so that it remains intimate.
The shows feature a singer/guitarist and the folkloric dancing of the female flamenco dancer. She wears stylish costumes and clicks castanets in her hands or claps.
The dances are very expressive, with intricate hand, arm, and body movements.
Sometimes a male dancer performs, too. His dancing includes incredible footwork, with many movements on his heels.
The whole performance is incredibly emotional and the audience senses this.
Granada has always been the home of flamenco.
It is particularly associated with the Sacromonte Caves in the city. That’s where gypsies used to live.
Their performances were credited with being the most spectacular.
The most authentic shows are those in the Sacromonte caves, such as La Zambra de Maria La Canastera. This show has been running for over 50 years. The cave is one of the oldest flamenco cave venues in the whole city of Granada.
As another option, you could also check out this fantastic Flamenco Show in La Alboreรก, too.
13. Walk the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, Gran Canaria
By Anuradha of Country Hopping Couple | Facebook
Gran Canaria is a ball-shaped Canary island on the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s located about 93 miles (150 kms) away from the African coast. Due to this, Gran Canaria receives over 300 days of sunshine.
This is one of the prime reasons why travelers visit Gran Canaria all through the year!
A miniature continent by itself, Gran Canaria is home to:
- Some of the most striking landscape
- Gorgeous whitewashed coastal towns
- Clean beaches
One of the major landscape and must-visit attractions in Gran Canaria is the Maspalomas Sand Dunes.
This is a protected nature reserve spread over an area of 1,000 acres in the south of Gran Canaria. In a split second, the wind-sculpted sands make you wonder if you are in the Sahara desert.
Begin your walking trail from Playa del Ingles passing through Playa de Maspalomas. Then, end your route in Faro de Maspalomas (Lighthouse).
The beaches are distinctively divided for families, gay, and naturists.
About 200 yards from the lighthouse and between Playa de Maspalomas, you’ll find La Charca. Be sure to visit this lagoon famed for watching aquatic birds like:
- Heron
- Little Egret
- Osprey
- Gulls
- and a lot more!
If birdwatching is your thing, grab your binoculars and walk to La Charcaโs observation deck.
The blue sky and golden sands are quite a sight to take in.
Avoid walking during the day times and when it’s scorching hot, though.
The best time to walk on the dunes is during the sunset when the sands are golden, waves are shimmering, and the silhouettes of lighthouse are enticing!
You could also take a charming camel ride through the dunes of Maspalomas, too.
Related: Read these 5 Best Tips before Your Visit to Gran Caneria
14. Hike Mulhacen in the Iberian Peninsula
By Linn Haglund of Andalucia Hiking | Instagram
One of the best experiences in Spain is without a doubt to hike the highest mountain peak in the Iberian Peninsula, Mulhacen (3479 masl).
You’ll find it in Sierra Nevada National Park in Southern Spain.
While it is a high peak surrounded by many of Spainโs 3,000-meter peaks, you can still manage a Mulhacen hike without much preparation in just one day.
In the summer months, there is a park bus going from the village of Capileira to Mirador de Trevelez.
This is the highest point where the bus can go and much higher than private vehicles are allowed.
The bus will pick you up 6 hours after drop off. This gives you plenty of time to make the hike to the top and include plenty of stops on the way.
With only an elevation of 780 meters, this is a fairly easy hiking route. However, you might notice the altitude closer to the top.
It still requires a basic physical condition to complete.
But if you are a fan of adventure experiences, you can tackle Mulhacen from the west ridge. This is a truly unforgiving rocky slope.
However, if you hike from Capileira in two days, you can stay over. Overnight at either the guarded refuge Refugio de Poqueira at 2500 masl or at the unguarded refuge Refugio Caldera at around 3,000 masl.
If you opt for a trek from Hoya de la Mora combining Mulhacen with other top peaks like Pico de Veleta (3,398 masl), you’ll discover more options of unguarded refuges on the way.
Another way to go is to hike from Trevelez past Siete Lagunas.
For wild camping in Sierra Nevada National Park, you need permission from the park authorities. It is only allowed as part of a through-hike.
Related: Don’t forget to pack nutritious foods for your hike! Here are 41 Good Hiking Snacks and Lunch Ideas.
15. Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid
By Dymphe of Dymabroad | Instagram
A great experience in Spain is visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid.
While it is only used for state ceremonies by the royal family, it is officially the residence of the royal family of Spain.
You’ll find it in the middle of the city of Madrid, so you can easily go here when you are traveling to Madrid.
You definitely should see it during your trip.
The royal family of Spain has played a large role in the history of the country. Here, you can learn more about it.
It is also a great place in Madrid to visit when itโs winter.
One amazing fact about the building is that it is the largest royal palace in Europe that is in use, with more than 3,000 rooms! The palace is wonderful to see from the outside because of its architecture.
Furthermore, outside of the palace, you can see the Changing of the Guard. That’s when those guarding the palace are switched with other guards.
This is a ritual that happens two times per week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
You can also go inside the palace for a tour of the building, where you’ll see a selection of the most beautiful rooms.
The admission fee is โฌ13 per person, with some free days throughout the year.
16. Appreciate Amazing Murals in Madrid
By Priya Vin of Outside Suburbia | Instagram
Even if you only have 24 hours in Madrid, don’t overlook the art scene.
Art lovers can discover that there are many things to do in Madrid from visiting the world-famous Prado Museum to find the best street art murals in the city.
On a local city tour with Javier Garcia, from Cool Tour Spain, you can discover hidden gems and some amazing murals in Madrid. They offer several art and architecture tours in Madrid, Spain.
Urvanity is an urban art festival in Madrid that celebrated its fourth year in February 2020.
It is truly one of the best art experiences.
Contemporary art galleries from all over Europe and other Latin American countries join forces during this art week in Madrid. Thanks to different sponsors, you’ll find painted facades located all around the city center.
One of the best murals in Madrid is by British artist D*. It’s one of his typical pop-art type painting with the couple embracing.
Oscar San Miguel Erice, also known as Okudart, is Spainโs most famous street art artist.
His artworks decorate walls in capital cities across the 5 continents. Metro de Madrid commissioned him to create a tribute to Paco de Lucia, the worldโs most important contemporary guitar player.
The multicolored & patterned face of Paco de Lucia now decorates the hallway of a metro station in the Mirasierra district.
17. Walk the Cami de Cavalls in Menorca
By Nadine Maffre of Le Long Weekend | Facebook
If you want a truly unique way to experience the Balearic Island of Menorca, look no further than the Cami de Cavalls.
This 115 mile (185 km) track circumnavigates the island. On it, you’ll take in some of the island’s most spectacular sights.
The Cami de Cavalls was once the main thoroughfare on the island.
It was created to help defend the island in the event of an enemy attack.
It has retained its rugged and charming appeal. It’s also surprisingly quiet to walk.
This makes it an attractive alternative to the coastal walks on the island.
The track takes in incredible scenery and weaves past some of Menorcaโs most beautiful beaches and alongside natural parks, reserves, and ancient forests.
You’ll likely spot several species of birds, too. It is varied and interesting at every turn.
Of course, not everyone is going to be able to tackle the entire trail in one visit. But it’s easy to choose a leg or two to complete during your island getaway.
The track is divided into 20 ‘stages’ and is well signposted.
This makes it a breeze to navigate.
And unlike the coastal trails that sometimes veer too close to the edge of a cliff, these tracks are family-friendly too.
18. Walk the Camino de Santiago
By Campbell & Alya of Stingy Nomads | YouTube
Out of many incredible experiences in Spain, walking the Camino de Santiago is one of the most unique and rewarding.
The old pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, a city in Galicia, Northern Spain has been used by people for centuries.
Since the discovery of the tomb of Apostle St. James in 814 AD and the construction of the cathedral, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over the world made their way on foot, horse, or bicycle to Santiago.
Nowadays, there are over 240,000 pilgrims that complete the Camino every year.
The Camino de Santiago is not the only pilgrimage route in the world But itโs definitely the one with the best infrastructure for pilgrims.
Here’s why.
- The routes are well-marked
- You’ll find a wide network of public and private albergues (budget hostels for pilgrims)
- There are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way.
Anybody can walk the Camino regardless of their religion, age, gender, and fitness level; there are no limits.
Many people do not know that the Camino has many different routes, so you can choose the one that suits you the best.
That might be a walk along the coast, a route over the mountains, or a historical route that will take you past many historical heritage sites and monuments.
The Camino Frances that starts on the border with France is the most popular route.
You can walk the Camino any way you like. Here are some popular options:
- Walk the whole route in one go
- Cover a part of it like with this pilgrim for a day tour where you walk the final 7 kilometers of the trek
- Divide the walk into several parts and walk it over a couple of years.
Remember, there are no rules to complete it all at once!
19. Marvel at the Steep Cliffs in Ronda
Byย Lotte fromย Eschbach Consulting
Ronda is a remarkable place in Andalusia.
Located in the inland of beautiful Spain and about a 60-mile (100-km) drive from Mรกlaga, itโs a must-visit on any Spain itinerary.
What makes Ronda so special is the El Tajo Gorge, separating one half of the village from the other.
Pretty whitewashed houses seem to be precariously perched on bone jarringly steep stone cliffs.
It’s a spectacular sight!
Be sure to cross the Puente Nuevo, the imposing stone bridge spanning the El Tajo Gorge a couple of times.
This bridge was built in 1751 and it took 42 years to finish. Considering it’s over 400 feet (120 meters) tall and created without any modern building equipment, thatโs quite an astonishing feat!
The Puente Nuevo connects the Old Town to the New Town. New is a relative term here, as this part of town dates back to the 15th century.
You’ll find a lookout on the bridge. Warning: looking down will induce a case of vertigo even in the most adventurous.
Down in the ravine, you can see the river Guadalevรญn. This river slowly carved its way through the rocks to create this magnificent gorge.
Besides the cliffs, Ronda has:
- Lovely plazas
- Old Arabic baths (Baรฑos Arabes)
- Interesting museums such as the Casa Palacio Museo Lara
- Beautiful historic buildings (donโt miss the Palacio de Mondragon)
- Cute narrow streets
For visiting families with young kids, you might want to ditch the stroller and bring a baby carrier instead.
That’s because the cobblestoned streets of the old city center arenโt what you call stroller friendly.
If you are making a Spain road trip and looking for a campsite to spend the night, Camping el Sur is a great option. This is a well-managed campsite with lovely spots, clean facilities, and a swimming pool.
Or you could also do a guided day tour of Ronda from nearby Granada, too.
20. Have Lunch in Plaza de Espaรฑa in Seville
By Sophie of We Dream of Travel | Facebook
One of the best travel experiences in Seville is visiting Plaza de Espaรฑa.
It’s the most famous and beautiful plaza in the city, if not all of Spain!
Located on the edge of Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de Espaรฑa is almost 100 years old. Put this essential stop on your Seville itinerary.
Built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition world fair, it was designed to demonstrate Spainโs architectural and industrial accomplishments to the world.
Around the outside of the impressive semi-circular plaza are 48 small alcoves with benches. Each of these represents a province in Spain and is decorated with intricate mosaic tile work, or azulejos.
These blue and yellow tiles contrast spectacularly again the red brick building surrounding the plaza.
At the centre of the plaza is the Vicente Traver water fountain.
Around the perimeter is a canal with four ornate bridges crossing it.
In the summer, you can take a boat ride along the canal, giving to Plaza de Espaรฑaโs nickname โmini-Venice.โ
Visiting Plaza de Espaรฑa is free. Even better, it is typically open 24/7.
This is the perfect place to sit with some lunch and relax. You can take some stunning photos here, or just to marvel at its sheer grandeur.
If possible, it’s best to visit early in the morning. That way, you’ll avoid the crowds and midday heat.
And for an even more enlightening experience, try pairing your visit with a 2.5 hour walking tour of all of Seville’s major attractions.
21. Celebrate Fรฉria de Sevilla in Seville
By Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers | Facebook
One of the absolute best experiences you can have in Spain when it comes to cultural immersion is to attend a local Fiesta.
Every city, town, and village in Andalucia has a local fair. It usual spans over a week.
Here’s waht you can expect:
- Flamenco
- Sevillana (traditional music)
- Tapas
- Local drinks
- Flamenco dresses
- and a whole lot of fun
The biggest and most famous of these is the one finding place in Seville. Feria de Abril takes place two weeks after Easter.
This is one of the great cultural experiences in Spain!
Not only is it known for being the biggest festival, but it’s also the most traditional. You should definitely add it to your Seville itinerary if you happen to be there at the right time.
The Feria Ground is divided in two parts.
One part is a massive fairground.
The other is made up of streets lined with temporary party houses/tents called casetas. These are mostly owned by families and companies.
The casetas only let in family, friends, and employees who have bought a ticket.
They serve plenty of food and drinks inside the casetas. It is definitely an advantage to know someone who has one or has tickets to enter one.
Luckily, there are a few that are public too, where everyone can enter.
These are usually the biggest ones. Don’t worry, they are just as much fun to hang out in.
It’s a Seville experience not to miss!
At the fiesta, you have to try the Rebujito, which is the traditional Feria drink in Seville.
Plus, they illuminate the entrance gate every year as an opening ceremony for the Feria de Abril.
The whole city is watching to see the gate which is made new every single year!
22. Take in the Drag Scene and LBBTQ+ Nightlife in Sitges
By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting | Intagram
Spain is full of intriguing cultural experiences.
One of the most vibrant and fun cultures in the country is that of the LGBTQ+ community.
While the culturally Catholic nation may not seem like a gay travel hot spot, Spain is extremely progressive popular for LGBTQ+ travel.
From April to October, gay travelers flock to the city, book a Sitges Airbnb, and make their way to the beaches and nightlife.
This seaside city is a colorful hamlet of gay culture in Spain with an active LGBTQ+ nightlife and drag scene.
Whatever your sexual and gender identity may be, you can be a part of the action in Sitges at any of the popular queer bars and drag shows.
Going to see the dinner cabaret show at Queenz Restaurant is one of the most entertaining ways to experience the drag scene of Sitges.
The dinner portion of the evening begins at 8:30 pm. It includes a three-course dinner and a glass of cava, which is a Spanish sparkling wine.
At the conclusion of the dinner service, guests are treated to an epic drag show.
The performance portion of the evening is about 50 minutes long. You can expect to leave the dinner show around midnights with a full stomach and belly laughs to match.
The music, the theatrics, the costumes, and the spirit of drag make an evening cabaret show the perfect way to experience LGBTQ+ culture.
Where better than to do so in Sitges, one of Spainโs best queer communities?
23. Celebrate Las Fallas Festival in Valencia
By Or from My Path in the World | Instagram
Welcoming the Spring and celebrating Saint Joseph’s day, Las Fallas is an incredible bonfire festival in Valencia.
It’s also celebrated in other cities and towns in the Valencian Community region, but Valencia is especially fun!
With all the events that take place during the five days of the festival (March 15th-19th), you’ll surely feel excited, like a kid in a candy store.
Those include:
- Parades with traditional costumes
- Illuminated street cars
- Firework shows
- Giant, extremely detailed, and colorful papier-mรขchรฉ sculpture displays. This is the crowning glory!
Each neighborhood in Valencia builds a display according to the annual theme. They then give awards to the best creations.
On the last day of the festival, all of the sculptures except the winning display get burned.
You can see the ones that have survived throughout the years in the Fallas Museum. The good thing is you can visit this museum year round if you miss the festival.
If you want to make the most of your time there, here are some helpful tips:
- Book your accommodation in advance
- Plan your itinerary according to the festival’s events
- Explore the different neighborhoods
- Be ready for the crowds and noise
- Bring comfortable shoes
- Spend some extra time in Valencia to see it more relaxedly
Finally, Las Fallas is completely free to attend!
24. Cook Paella in Valencia
By Marco Sison at Nomadic FIRE | Instagram
For foodies, a quintessential Spanish experience is enjoying paella.
This famous rice dish has the unique golden-hue that only comes from a saffron infusion. All food lovers must try this signature Spanish dish in the city of its birth, Valencia.
Sure, you can head to any restaurants in the city, but where’s the fun in that?
Instead, for 75โฌ, you can take a cooking class with Escuela de arroces y paella Valenciana (The School of Valencian Rice Dishes and Paella). When you do, you’ll learn to make a traditional paella from a local chef.
Alternatively, you could also try this authentic Paella cooking class.
Food and cooking in Latin countries are not just about eating.
It’s a full-on cultural experience.
That’s because family and friends mingle in the kitchen, and share glasses of wine and conversation during the paella’s complex two-hour cooking process.
Taking a paella cooking class helps you understand the dish’s cultural origins. And the next time you order paella in a restaurant, you can appreciate the effort and skill that went into the preparation.
The class usually starts with buying the ingredients from the Mercado Central in the Barrio del Carmen.
Like a local Abuela (Grandma), you will shop for different ingredients from different vendors. You’ll gett the seafood from a fishmonger, the vegetables from a farmer’s stand, and the spices from a specialty vendor.
Now you have the best of the best and the freshest of the fresh.
Back at school, you will prepare the paella with careful guidance from the instructor. You will learn that your paella’s success is all about mastering the techniques and tools.
Afterward, you will eat your masterpiece straight from the pan in typical Valencian fashion.
And just like in a Spanish home, drinks, coffee, and an apรฉritif are part of this awesome experience.
It’s no wonder that so many foodies are inclined to retire to Spain!
25. Throw Tomatoes During La Tomatina!
By Kat at Wandering Bird | Facebook
If youโre looking for immersive experiences, they donโt get more interactive than La Tomatina.
La Tomatina is a festival which occurs once a year in the Valencian town of Bunol. And this festival consists ofโฆ tomato throwing.
Yep, on the last Wednesday in August, the entire town runs red as participants throw tomatoes at each other – just for fun.
You have to buy a ticket in order to participate. There are also some very strict rules.
For instance:
- You must squash the tomatoes first in order not to hurt anyone
- Itโs forbidden to throw anything other than tomatoes
If youโd like to get involved, you first need to grab one of the tickets online. Usually around only 20,000 are available, in order to avoid overwhelming the town.
There are starter guns to signal the start and end of the fight. The whole event lasts around an hour.
Afterwards, firetrucks come out and hose down all the streets, and people if they wish!
Of course, you donโt want to wear anything nice to La Tomatina. Your clothes will be covered in tomato juice and pulp and could end up torn or ruined.
Also, leave your phones and cameras at home. They will get destroyed by the mess.
If youโre motorhoming in Spain, you can stay at one of several campsites nearby.
You could also book a hotel or BnBs nearby, but book ahead. Many fill up early.
Final Thoughts on Best Spain Experiences
Now you have an epic list of Spain experiences that offers something for everyone. And, you’ve learned many important things to know about Spain before your trip.
From the outdoorsman, to the foodie, to the history-lover, to the music fan, and beyondโyou’ll easily find a fun experience in Spain with your name on it.
As you might guess, the real problem won’t be what to do in Spain. It will more likely be how to fit them all in.
Next Steps
There’s so much to see and do in Spain. Of course, you won’t get to see everything in one visit, unless you have an extended vacation planned.
Either way, to continue planning your trip to Spain, you’ll want to read these articles next:
- 27 Tips for Your First Trip to Spain
- Spain Road Trip: From Barcelona to Madrid
- Gran Canaria: 5 Tips Before You Go
And if you’re new to Europe, have a look at this one, too:
If you want to save money on airfare to Spain, check out these next:
Which of these amazing experiences in Spain tops your list? If you’ve been to Spain, which of these experiences did you enjoy? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo Credits: Tapas bar in Barcelona – Life Of Pix (Pexels); Pouring Cider – Hispalois, CC BY-SA 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons); La Tomatina – Deposit Photos; Ham & Mushroom Pintxos – Iรฑigo Ibisate (Pixabay) all other photos submitted by author.
This is wonderful list of things that you have mentioned to do in Spain. When I was in Barcelona I really loved the food there being a vegan, glad that you have mentioned about vegetarian food. There is so much to explore. Park Guell, Alhambra, all are must visit places. There are still few things I have not done it from the list in Spain, so maybe for the next time.
I have not been to Barcelona yet, but loved the Alhambra in Granada! In Andalucia especially, there is a lot of jamรณn (ham) on the menu–but also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, too! Plus, it’s all delicious. ๐
Wow! I did not realize there is so much to see and do but I would love the idea of cheering a football game at Camp Nou. My family are big football fans so I know they will love this. Flamenco Dancing sounds exciting too.
Glad you found some things you would enjoy in Spain, Clarice! Both of these experiences are so fun!
I hadn’t planned a vacation to Spain yet, but this article has given me some great new ideas for a future trip. I’d like to visit both the Alhambra and the Generalife Gardens. Barcelona, of course, is a must-see destination. The Pudding Diagonal Cafรฉ, on the other hand, seems to be an interesting place to visit. Attending a local fair in Seville is a must-do for me as well, as it sounds like a lot of great entertainment!
When you plan your trip, these are all great fun, Maria. Hope you get to Spain soon!
That’s so much to do in Spain and such lovely experiences as I went through them. Do realize how little we have seen of Spain. Just Madrid & Barcelona and so some of the experiences that you have highlighted here. Andalucia sounds good. Celebrating Las Fallas Festival in Valencia & Flamenco Dancing in Granada would be one of our top picks.
Andalucia is so under-rated! You are so right, Spain offers so much and it’s hard to see it all in one trip. Valencia and Granada are not to be missed and worth a return trip!
Having lived in Spain for two years, I have experienced so many of these amazing places. I am a big fan of the white villages of Andalucia, there are so many and they are all so different that you can never get bored. Hiking in Andalucia is also pretty amazing, especially that here is where you find the highest peak in continental Spain.
What a wonderful opportunity to have lived in Spain for two years! I love the white villages of Mijas – just a short ride from Marbella. The mountains are so beautiful, too! Thanks for sharing your ideas, Joanna.
Great list of things to do in Spain. I have done about half of them myself. I like it that you also included hiking tips. The Cami de cavalls on Menorca was one of my favorite hikes in the country. I have done the Camenito del Reyes as well as the Santiago Camino too.
Good for you, Natascha – I am impressed! These hikes are such great experiences. Many people don’t realize how many gorgeous mountains and walks there are to explore in Spain.
We love Spain and have had many great experiences on our multiple visits. But you have a great list here that includes some to make us want to go back to Spain. We have not spent enough time in the outdoors so would definitely want to plan to hike in Andalusia or in the Iberian Peninsula. We had lots of coffee in Barcelona but missed the Harry Potter Themed coffee shop. And on many trips we have missed the chance to do a sherry testing tour. Visiting Rhonda is definitely something we would agree to on your list! A great collection to cover many trips to Spain.
Yes! This list will keep anyone coming back to Spain. Glad you have done so yourself!
You’re right Jackie, these are excellent experiences to have in Spain! I’ve been to feria a few times in Sevilla and it’s wonderful. I’d love to try cooking paella in Valencia and walk the Camino one day. It’s been on my list forever!
Those are two great experiences to have on your list! Hope you get to them soon. (Seville is amazing!)
Crawl the tapas bars on Carrer Blai in Barcelona…
Did you know?…
Spanish people ‘tapear’ (the act of eating tapas) as an appetiser before dinner or lunch. Another Spanish way of enjoying tapas is to ‘ir de tapa’, which is basically bar hopping with a tapa and small drink at each stop.
And if you love tapas you’ll want to put World Tapas Day in your diary – it’s the third Thursday in June. Yum yum!!
Good call! Thanks for adding your ideas to our list of Spain Experiences!
I have only done 6 of these. I have not been to Barcelona, Madrid, Menorca, Valencia, Gran Canaria. I have only been to Sevilla, Granada, and Andalusia.
Maybe time for a return trip? 6 is pretty good, though!