Spain has dozens of beautiful cities to visit. From the buzzing city of Madrid to the floral city of Córdoba, it’s easy to see why so many people, including myself, adore Spain. If you’re considering where you should go next, we would very happily suggest you consider one of the best cities in Spain that we’ve included on our list below.
With a history as rich and diverse as Spain’s, you can trust that there’s no shortage of breathtaking historical landmarks. But Spain has also become an increasingly modern country; its street art, museums, galleries, and restaurants are a testament to that.
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If you’ve never been to Spain before, then get ready to be blown away. Each city has its own unique flare, including food and drink all its own. You can visit dozens of wine regions, discover the 2 biggest cities of Barcelona or Madrid, or explore the lesser-known gems of San Sebastian or Sevilla.
» Take a look at some of these cities in this web story.
Most Beautiful Cities in Spain to Visit
1. Sevilla
Sevilla is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular Spanish cities. This beautiful city in Spain is filled with iconic landmarks such as the Torre del Oro, the mesmerizing Real Alcázar Palace, and the Plaza de España.
Seville is well known as a food-loving city; in fact, there are more than 3,000 tapas bars in Seville. Just spending a whole day wandering from one bar to another, sampling the Solomillo al Whisky, Pringa (sandwiches), and churros is enough entertainment for me! A Sevilla tapas tour is one of the best ways to immerse yourself.
Enjoy the smell of citrus as you walk through the picturesque Barrio de Santa Cruz, or take in unmatched views from the Setas de Sevilla, the biggest wooden structure in the world.
A must-see experience for any visitor to the city is the flamenco show. Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that originated in Andalusia and is known for its passionate and expressive movements.
Attending a flamenco show in Seville is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the city. Many flamenco shows in Seville also feature live music, singing, and guitar playing, making for an all-around immersive and authentic experience.
Fun fact: The Plaza de España and Real Alcázar Palace were used as filming sites in the popular series Star Wars and The Game of Thrones.
Tours to enjoy:
2. Valencia
Valencia is a city located on the eastern coast of Spain. It is the third-largest city in Spain and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. It’s home to several beautiful beaches, including La Malvarrosa Beach and El Cabanyal Beach.
No visit to Spain is complete without having the iconic Mediterranean rice dish, paella. And there’s no better place to have this authentic dish than in the home of paella: Valencia. In fact, Valencia is home to a number of great foods that you’ll definitely want to try on your trip.
The city is best known for Las Fallas, a fun five-day festival in March when giant papier-mâché puppets are paraded through the streets. Be sure to visit the City of Arts and Sciences, and especially the Oceanogràfic aquarium inside, wander through the beautiful Old Town streets, see inside the 13th century Gothic cathedral, and take time to enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Tours to enjoy:
- Valencia Old Town Tour with Wine & Tapas in 11th Century Historic Monument
- Valencian Paella cooking class, Tapas and Market Visit
3. Granada
The centuries of Iberian, Roman, and Muslim influences are woven into the architecture and culture that makes Granada so unique. You won’t want to miss a tour of the Alhambra, a Moorish fortress, and the picturesque Generalife Palace Gardens.
During the afternoon, be sure to stop by one of the many bars where your only task is to order a drink, which will come with a tapa. Or visit one of the many tea houses in the Albayzín neighborhood to get an authentic taste of Granada’s culture.
You’ll also want to take a stroll through the cobblestoned streets, and admire the Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical churches, convents, monasteries, hospitals, palaces, and mansions.
Granada is also home to the Cathedral of Granada, a stunning Gothic-styled cathedral that dates back to the 16th century. The city is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Science Park.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Granada is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The city is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and skiing.
Tours to enjoy:
- Skip the Line: 1 Hour Flamenco Show Ticket in a Cave-Restaurant in Granada
- Arabian Baths Experience at Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus
4. Oviedo
Oviedo is nestled between lush green hills along the Picos de Europa mountains in the north and is best known for its magnificent ancient cathedral.
The city has so many gorgeous monasteries, chapels, and churches that it’s hard to mention them all. Be sure to stop by a sidrería to try out the Asturias region’s signature beverage, and seek out their food specialties, such as Fabada Asturiana (bean stew), Pitu de Caleya (special free-range chicken), and Cabrales cheese.
The city is also scattered with an impressive collection of statues and sculptures, and the Old Town is delightfully full of narrow pedestrian streets to explore.
Oviedo is the most common point of departure for the Camino Primitivo route of the Camino de Santiago walking routes. The history of the Caminos stretches back centuries and they have their origins in the ancient routes traced across Europe by Christian pilgrims. Check out this Web Story.
Tours to enjoy:
- Guided kayaking on the Nalón river Oviedo
- Private Tour oviedo or Gijón to Europa Peaks Covadonga Sanctuary and Lakes
5. Madrid
The beautiful city of Madrid has no shortage of awe-inspiring sites, both old and new. While the grandeur of the buildings along the Gran Vía is enough to leave you breathless, the architectural beauty doesn’t end there.
You’ll love the Madrid Palace, the charming neighborhood of Chamberí, and the abundance of art galleries and museums, including the world-famous Prado. And if you’re looking for a stretch of nature, stop by the picture-perfect El Retiro Park.
With so many food specialties, we recommend taking a Madrid food tour to try some jamon, manchego cheese, sidra, and churros.
Tours to enjoy:
6. Córdoba
If you’re planning a visit to this city, be sure to time it around May to witness the yearly Courtyard Festival. You’ll get to take in the sights and smells of hundreds of flowers and plants as homeowners open and display their ornate courtyards with pride.
Of course, the courtyards aren’t the only reason that Córdoba is one of the prettiest cities in Spain. The ancient architecture serves as indicators of the different eras and people who have inhabited this city.
Walk across the Roman Bridge, admire the striped arches in the Great Mosque, and wander through the decorated streets of the old Jewish Quarter.
Tours to enjoy:
- Cordoba: Mosque,Cathedral, Alcazar & Synagogue with Skip the Line Tickets
- City Sightseeing Cordoba Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
7. Barcelona
Most visitors to Barcelona are first drawn to the work of art that is the Sagrada Família, designed by Antoni Gaudí. Besides the beautiful basilica, you’ll find mesmerizing architectural landmarks like Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens, Park Güell, and the opulent Palace of Catalan Music.
As the capital of Catalonia, you’ll also find slightly different foods in Barcelona, so a tapas crawl is high on the list. La Boqueria market is great for a food stroll.
The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) is a stunning area of the city that you have to witness. It’s one of the most atmospheric medieval quarters in the world, with magical old-world ambience.
Tours to enjoy:
- Barcelona Tapas and Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour
- Sagrada Familia: Fast Track Guided Tour
- Interactive Spanish Cooking Experience in Barcelona
8. Girona
With around 2000 years of history, the beautiful city of Girona is brimming with ancient and medieval architectural gems. These include the spectacular Arab baths, the Força Vella Cathedral, and the remnants of the Roman Força Vella Fortress.
Take a walk along the Medieval Walls, or explore the narrow streets of the old Jewish Quarters. For panoramic views, take the stairs up Cúndaro or Sant Llorenç street to reach the highest point in the city. There are even some Game of Thrones filming locations to see.
Of course, the more modern side of Girona won’t disappoint either. The multicolored buildings that sit along the River Onyar are a must-see destination.
Located in the Catalonia region of Spain you can spend plenty of time eating your way through the city and the market.
Tours to enjoy:
- Girona Walking Tour Small Group from Girona
- Half-Day Game Of Thrones Walking Tour in Girona with a Guide
9. Zaragoza
The intricate architecture of this stunning city, situated along the Ebro River, is sure to leave you breathless.
The blue and yellow-tiled roofs of the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar can be seen from both the tree-lined river and the vast Plaza del Pilar. Take a stroll along the plaza, and you’ll soon come across the glistening Latin-America-shaped Fuente de la Hispanidad fountain.
Further along the plaza, you’ll find the Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza, where you’ll see details of the Mudejar artform that adorns the greater Aragon region.
Tours to enjoy:
- Kayaking in Zaragoza: Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS
- Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza
10. San Sebastián
San Sebastian is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Spain. The crescent-shaped La Concha beach, with its fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, is one of its top attractions, alongside its incredible pintxos crawl, which will have you trying solomillo, Basque cheesecake, foie gras, and txuleton steak.
To get an unmatched view of the city, head up Monte Igueldo on the funicular and take in panoramic views from the lookout point or the El Torreón tower.
Wander through the city’s Old Town, where you’ll find the ornate Basilica of Santa María del Coro and the San Telmo Museum. If it’s cider season (Jan-March) make a reservation at a sideria (Petritegi is a great choice) for a full cider house experience.
To see more of what San Sebastian has to offer check out these 16 things to do in while you are there.
Tours to enjoy:
- Ultimate San Sebastian Pintxos & Wine Tour (Evening)
- Biarritz and French Basque coast tour from San Sebastian
- Bilbao, Guggenheim and Gaztelugatxe Small Group Tour with lunch
11. Málaga
This beautiful port city on the Costa del Sol has been reinvigorated over the past few years and is growing increasingly popular. But while Málaga has an exciting future ahead, its past is equally intriguing. It’s the birthplace of Pablo Picaso, and has a gorgeous Old Town to explore.
The ancient Castillo de Gibralfaro provides the most beautiful views of the city and its glimmering coastline. Below, the Alcazaba is nestled between greenery, with the Roman amphitheater just underneath.
To see the more modern side of Malaga, head to the Soho District to see captivating street art, or book a ticket to the colorful Pompidou Center. But don’t forget to spend some time on the pristine beaches.
Tours to enjoy:
12. Logroño
The charming city of Logroño serves as the capital of the famous wine region, La Rioja. Being less frequented by tourists, it’s the perfect place for a quiet escape. You can do some wine tasting in the city, or head out to the surrounding hillsides for wine tasting.
You’ll love the many parks, plazas, and ornate churches in this quaint city. Just head to the Old Town and get yourself lost among the narrow lanes. The Museo de la Rioja sits in an old palace from the 18th century and the Church of San Bartolomé, constructed in the 12th century, is the oldest church in Logroño.
Be sure to visit the popular Calle del Laurel (street) for a fun lunch or dinner of “pinchos crawling.” The bars here serve both classic and innovative dishes that go perfectly with a glass of local wine. You can easily hop between them on the same street, eating the specialties of each bar.
13. Bilbao
Bilbao is another one of those beautiful Spain cities that have both historic and modern elements. Stroll through the colorful Old Town – Casco Viejo, for a taste of Bilbao’s past, or visit the magnificently contemporary Guggenheim Museum.
Take a funicular up to the Lookout of Artxanda, where you’ll get unmatched views of the city and surrounding green hills.
You also won’t want to miss The Market La Ribera. The market has been running for centuries and has so many tempting food stalls that you’re bound to end up buying more than one dish.
Tours to enjoy:
14. Jerez De La Frontera
This beautiful Spanish city is best known for its Cartujana horses, sherry, and Flamenco dancing. You can see the highly valued Cartujana horses “dancing” at the Equestrian Art School or the Jerez Horse Fair.
This city is also considered to be one of the birthplaces of Flamenco dancing. Visit Jerez during the yearly Flamenco Festival or book a show for an evening of music and dance.
When you’re not taking in the beauty of equestrian art and Flamenco dancing, stop by Bodega Tío Pepe to try out their sweet sherry.
Tours to enjoy:
15. Ronda
Sitting on either side of the 328-feet-deep El Tajo gorge, you’ll find the enchanting city of Ronda.
This city is one of the most beautiful Pueblos Blancos (white villages) scattered across Andalucia and can be explored entirely on foot. It is connected by three bridges — of which the magnificent Puente Nuevo is the most well known.
Take the path down into the gorge to get a better view of the Puente Nuevo, or admire the verdant hills surrounding the city from the Alameda del Tajo Gardens. You also won’t want to pass by one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, Plaza del Toros.
Tours to enjoy:
- Ronda Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Optional White Villages from Seville
- White Villages and Ronda Day Tour from Seville
Conclusion
It’s easy to understand why Spain is one of the top-visited countries in the world. Its climate, architecture, art scene, culture, and food will leave you mesmerized and wishing you didn’t have to leave. Which city will you visit first?
We hope this list helped you narrow down (or broaden) your bucket list. All that’s left for you to decide is where to start. Have a look at this Spain itinerary to inspire you further and help you plan a memorable Spanish holiday.
Be Prepared For Travel
Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:
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- Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
- Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner)
- Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
- Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)
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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited 70+ countries.
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