Are you looking for a short trip to one of the most amazing and diverse countries in Europe? Do you want to experience the culture, history, and cuisine of some of the most beautiful cities in the world? If so, then you should consider Spanish city breaks!
Spain is a country that offers something for everyone, from stunning beaches and mountains to vibrant nightlife and festivals. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration, you will find a city that suits your needs and preferences.
In this blog post, we will introduce you to 12 of the best Spanish city breaks that you can take in 2024. We will give you an overview of each city, its main attractions, and some tips on how to make the most of your visit. We will also provide you with some useful information on how to book your Spanish city break with Travel Mind, the leading website for travel opportunities and advice.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ultimate guide to the best Spain metropolises!
Barcelona: The Cultural Capital of Catalonia
Barcelona is one of the most popular and visited cities in Spain, and for good reason. It is the capital of the Catalonia region, which has its own distinct identity, language, and culture. Barcelona is a city that combines modernity and tradition, art and architecture, and cosmopolitanism and localism.
Some of the must-see attractions in Barcelona include:
La Sagrada Familia: The iconic and unfinished basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi, which is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Park Guell: Another Gaudi creation, this park is a whimsical and colorful oasis that features mosaic sculptures, fountains, and gardens.
Casa Batlló: A stunning and surreal building that showcases Gaudi’s organic and imaginative style, inspired by nature and mythology.
Gothic Quarter: The oldest and most historic part of the city, where you can admire medieval buildings, churches, and squares, as well as enjoy the lively atmosphere of bars, restaurants, and shops.
La Rambla: The famous and bustling boulevard that runs through the heart of the city, where you can see street performers, artists, and vendors, as well as visit the Boqueria Market, one of the best food markets in the world.
Tips for visiting Barcelona:
Barcelona is a very walkable and bike-friendly city, so you can explore it easily by foot or by renting a bike.
Barcelona is also well-connected by public transport, such as metro, bus, tram, and train, so you can reach any part of the city quickly and cheaply.
Barcelona is a very popular destination, especially in the summer, so you should book your accommodation and tickets for the main attractions in advance to avoid disappointment and long queues.
Barcelona is a city that has a lot to offer, so you should plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize the places and activities that interest you the most.
Barcelona is a city that has a rich and diverse culinary scene, so you should try some of the local specialties, such as paella, tapas, sangria, and cava.
Madrid: The Royal and Artistic Heart of Spain
Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain, and also one of the most elegant and sophisticated cities in Europe. It is a city that boasts a royal and artistic heritage, as well as a vibrant and cosmopolitan culture. Madrid is a city that will surprise and delight you with its charm, energy, and diversity.
Some of the must-see attractions in Madrid include:
Prado Museum: One of the most prestigious and renowned art museums in the world, which houses a collection of masterpieces by Spanish and European painters, such as Velazquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and Bosch.
Royal Palace: The official residence of the Spanish royal family, which is a magnificent and opulent building that showcases the history and splendor of the Spanish monarchy.
Retiro Park: The largest and most beautiful park in the city, which is a green and peaceful oasis that features a lake, a rose garden, a crystal palace, and various monuments and statues.
Mercado San Miguel: A historic and elegant market that offers a variety of gourmet and artisanal products, such as cheese, ham, wine, chocolate, and pastries.
Flamenco Show: A traditional and passionate Spanish dance and music performance that expresses the emotions and soul of the Spanish people.
Tips for visiting Madrid:
Madrid is a very hot and dry city, especially in the summer, so you should drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Madrid is also a very cold and windy city, especially in the winter, so you should dress warmly and wear layers to keep yourself comfortable.
Madrid is a city that has a lot of traffic and pollution, so you should avoid driving and use public transport, such as metro, bus, and train, which are efficient and affordable.
Madrid is a city that has a lot of nightlife and entertainment options, so you should enjoy the lively and festive atmosphere of the bars, clubs, and theaters, as well as the famous “madrugada” or late-night culture.
Madrid is a city that has a lot of regional and international cuisine, so you should sample some of the local delicacies, such as cocido, tortilla, croquetas, and churros.
Seville: The Romantic and Flamboyant Soul of Andalusia
Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia, the southernmost and most exotic region of Spain. It is a city that reflects the influence and fusion of different cultures and civilizations, such as Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian. Seville is a city that radiates romance and flamboyance, as well as tradition and innovation.
Some of the must-see attractions in Seville include:
Alcázar of Seville: The oldest and most impressive royal palace in Europe, which is a stunning example of Moorish and Mudejar architecture and design, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cathedral of Seville: The largest and most majestic Gothic cathedral in the world, which is also the burial place of Christopher Columbus and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Barrio Santa Cruz: The former Jewish quarter and the most charming and picturesque part of the city, where you can wander through the narrow and winding streets, admire the whitewashed houses and colorful flowers, and relax in the cozy and quaint plazas and cafes.
Plaza de Espana: A monumental and spectacular square that was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, which features a semicircular building, a canal, a fountain, and tiled alcoves that represent the provinces of Spain.
Flamenco Show: A quintessential and authentic Andalusian experience that showcases the art and passion of flamenco, which is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Tips for visiting Seville:
Seville is a very hot and humid city, especially in the summer, so you should avoid visiting during the peak hours of the day and seek shade and air-conditioning whenever possible.
Seville is also a very crowded and touristy city, especially during the spring, when it hosts two of the most famous and celebrated festivals in Spain: the Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Abril (April Fair).
Seville is a city that has a lot of history and culture, so you should visit some of the museums and monuments that showcase the rich and diverse heritage of the city, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Torre del Oro, and the Metropol Parasol.
Seville is a city that has a lot of charm and personality, so you should immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and customs, such as taking a siesta, eating tapas, and watching a bullfight.
Seville is a city that has a lot of flavor and aroma, so you should savor some of the typical and delicious dishes, such as gazpacho, salmorejo, jamon iberico, and orange wine.
Valladolid: The Alternative and Off-the-Beaten-Path City Break
Valladolid is the capital and largest city of Castile and Leon, the largest and most historic region of Spain. It is a city that offers an alternative and off-the-beaten-path city break, where you can discover the authentic and traditional side of Spain. Valladolid is a city that has a rich and varied cultural and artistic heritage, as well as a lively and friendly atmosphere.
Some of the must-see attractions in Valladolid include:
National Sculpture Museum: One of the most important and impressive museums of its kind in Europe, which displays a collection of sculptures from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, as well as paintings, furniture, and tapestries.
Plaza Mayor: The main and most emblematic square of the city, which is surrounded by elegant and colorful buildings, and features a statue of King Philip II, who was born in Valladolid.
Pisuerga River: The river that flows through the city, which offers a scenic and relaxing view, as well as a variety of activities, such as kayaking, cycling, and walking along the riverbank.
Royal Palace: The former residence of the kings and queens of Spain, which is a beautiful and imposing building that reflects the Renaissance and Baroque styles, and houses a museum of tapestries and weapons.
Valladolid Walking Tour: A guided tour that takes you to the most interesting and significant places and monuments of the city, such as the Cathedral, the University, the House of Cervantes, and the Church of San Pablo.
Tips for visiting Valladolid:
Valladolid is a very cold and foggy city, especially in the winter, so you should dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes to explore the city.
Valladolid is also a very quiet and peaceful city, especially at night, so you should respect the tranquility and silence of the locals and avoid making noise or disturbing them.
Valladolid is a city that has a lot of history and culture, so you should learn some basic facts and stories about the city and its people, such as the fact that it was the first capital of Spain, and that it was the birthplace of famous writers, such as Cervantes, Quevedo, and Zorrilla.
Valladolid is a city that has a lot of gastronomy and wine, so you should taste some of the local specialties, such as lechazo (roasted lamb), sopa de ajo (garlic soup), queso de oveja (sheep cheese), and Ribera del Duero wine.
Jaen: The Hidden and Underrated Gem of Andalusia
Jaen is the capital and largest city of the province of Jaen, which is located in the northeastern part of Andalusia. It is a city that is often overlooked and underrated by tourists, but that has a lot to offer to those who are looking for a hidden and unique city break. Jaen is a city that has a fascinating and ancient history, as well as a stunning and natural scenery.
Some of the must-see attractions in Jaen include:
Cathedral of Jaen: The most important and impressive building of the city, which is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and art, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Castle of Santa Catalina: The most emblematic and dominant landmark of the city, which is a medieval fortress that offers a panoramic and breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Arab Baths: The largest and best-preserved Arab baths in Spain, which are located under the Palace of Villardompardo, and which offer a glimpse into the Islamic past and culture of the city.
Discover Jaen: A tourist card that gives you access to the main attractions and museums of the city, as well as discounts and benefits in various shops and restaurants.
San Juan Bonfire Festival: A traditional and popular festival that takes place on the night of June 23rd, which celebrates the summer solstice and the arrival of Saint John the Baptist, and which involves lighting bonfires, jumping over them, and making wishes.
Tips for visiting Jaen:
Jaen is a very hot and sunny city, especially in the summer, so you should drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Jaen is also a very hilly and steep city, so you should be prepared to climb a lot of stairs and slopes to reach the main attractions and viewpoints of the city.
Jaen is a city that has a lot of heritage and monuments, so you should visit some of the other sites that showcase the history and culture of the city, such as the Museum of Jaen, the Church of San Ildefonso, and the Archaeological Site of Puente Tablas.
Jaen is a city that has a lot of nature and adventure, so you should explore some of the natural parks and reserves that surround the city, such as the Sierra de Cazorla, the Sierra de Andujar, and the Sierra Magina.
Jaen is a city that has a lot of olive oil and cuisine, so you should try some of the local delicacies, such as ajo blanco (cold almond and garlic soup), pipirrana (salad of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and olives), and aceite de oliva virgen extra (extra virgin olive oil).
Cadiz: The Ancient and Maritime City Break
Cadiz is the capital and largest city of the province of Cadiz, which is located in the southwestern part of Andalusia. It is a city that has a long and glorious history, as it is one of the oldest and most important cities in Europe and the world. Cadiz is a city that has a strong and distinctive maritime character, as it is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of Cadiz.
Some of the must-see attractions in Cadiz include:
Cathedral of Cadiz: The main and most striking building of the city, which is a magnificent and eclectic structure that combines various styles, such as Baroque, Neoclassical, and Rococo, and which features a golden dome, a bell tower, and a crypt.
Castillo de San Sebastián: A 17th-century fortress that is located on a small island at the end of La Caleta Beach, which offers a spectacular and romantic view of the sea and the city.
La Caleta Beach: The most popular and emblematic beach of the city, which is a small and cozy cove that is framed by two castles, and which has a calm and clear water, and a soft and golden sand.
Mercado Central Cadiz: The central and oldest market of the city, which is a lively and colorful place that sells a variety of fresh and local products, such as fish, seafood, meat, cheese, fruits, and vegetables.
Bike Tour of Cadiz: A fun and eco-friendly way to discover the city and its secrets, which takes you to the most interesting and beautiful places and monuments of the city, such as the Plaza de España, the Torre Tavira, and the Puertas de Tierra.
Tips for visiting Cadiz:
Cadiz is a very windy and humid city, especially in the winter, so you should bring a jacket and an umbrella to protect yourself from the wind and the rain.
Cadiz is also a very festive and cheerful city, especially during the carnival, which is one of the most famous and celebrated events in Spain, and which takes place in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar.
Cadiz is a city that has a lot of history and legend, so you should learn some of the myths and stories that surround the city and its people, such as the fact that it was founded by the Phoenicians, and that it was the birthplace of Hercules and the site of the Battle of Trafalgar.
Cadiz is a city that has a lot of sea and sun, so you should enjoy the beach and the water activities, such as surfing, sailing, snorkeling, and whale watching.
Cadiz is a city that has a lot of fried fish and tapas, so you should taste some of the local specialties, such as pescaito frito (fried fish), tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters), ortiguillas (sea anemones), and fino (dry sherry).
Pontevedra: The Charming and Green City Break
Pontevedra is the capital and largest city of the province of Pontevedra, which is located in the northwestern part of Galicia. It is a city that has a charming and green city break, where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a small and historic city. Pontevedra is a city that has a medieval and artistic heritage, as well as a modern and sustainable culture.
Some of the must-see attractions in Pontevedra include:
Old Town: The most attractive and well-preserved part of the city, where you can admire the architecture and monuments of the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria, the Church of San Francisco, and the Ruins of Santo Domingo.
Pontevedra Museum: The main and most comprehensive museum of the city, which displays a collection of art and archaeology from various periods and cultures, such as Celtic, Roman, Medieval, and Contemporary.
Rias Baixas wine region: The wine region that surrounds the city, which is famous for producing the Albariño wine, which is a white and fruity wine that pairs well with seafood and fish.
Monumental Morning Walking Tour: A guided tour that takes you to the most interesting and beautiful places and monuments of the city, such as the Plaza de la Leña, the Peregrina Church, and the Loro Ravachol.
Tips for visiting Pontevedra:
Pontevedra is a very rainy and cloudy city, especially in the winter, so you should bring a raincoat and an umbrella to protect yourself from the rain.
Pontevedra is also a very pedestrian and bike-friendly city, so you should explore it by foot or by renting a bike, as the city has a lot of pedestrian zones and bike lanes.
Pontevedra is a city that has a lot of culture and festivals, so you should check the calendar and join some of the events and celebrations that take place throughout the year, such as the Feira Franca, the Carnival, and the Festa da Peregrina.
Pontevedra is a city that has a lot of nature and scenery, so you should visit some of the nearby beaches and islands, such as the Cies Islands, the Ons Island, and the Lanzada Beach.
Pontevedra is a city that has a lot of seafood and cuisine, so you should try some of the local specialties, such as empanada (savory pie), pulpo a feira (octopus with paprika), zorza (spicy pork), and queixo de tetilla (cheese shaped like a breast).
Oviedo: The Elegant and Cultural City Break
Oviedo is the capital and largest city of Asturias, which is located in the northern part of Spain. It is a city that has an elegant and cultural city break, where you can enjoy the charm and sophistication of a classical and modern city. Oviedo is a city that has a remarkable and unique architectural and artistic heritage, as well as a lively and cosmopolitan culture.
Some of the must-see attractions in Oviedo include:
Cathedral of San Salvador: The main and most impressive building of the city, which is a splendid and complex structure that combines various styles, such as Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, and which features a tower, a cloister, and a chapel.
Palace of Camposagrado: The former residence of the Marquis of Camposagrado, which is a beautiful and elegant building that showcases the Baroque and Rococo styles, and which houses the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias.
Plaza del Fontán: The most popular and lively square of the city, where you can see the Fontán Market, one of the oldest and most traditional markets in Spain, as well as enjoy the atmosphere of the bars, restaurants, and terraces.
Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias: The most important and prestigious art museum of the city, which displays a collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, by Spanish and Asturian artists, such as El Greco, Goya, Sorolla, and Nicanor Piñole.
Hiking: A great and healthy way to discover the natural and rural side of the city and its surroundings, which offers a variety of routes and trails, such as the Monte Naranco, the Senda del Oso, and the Camino de Santiago.
Tips for visiting Oviedo:
Oviedo is a very cold and snowy city, especially in the winter, so you should dress warmly and wear boots and gloves to keep yourself warm and comfortable.
Oviedo is also a very clean and safe city, so you should respect the environment and the rules of the city, and avoid littering or vandalizing the public spaces and monuments.
Oviedo is a city that has a lot of history and literature, so you should read some of the books and stories that are set in or inspired by the city and its people, such as La Regenta by Leopoldo Alas, Clarin, or The City of Marvels by Eduardo Mendoza.
Oviedo is a city that has a lot of music and cinema, so you should listen to some of the bands and singers that are from or related to the city, such as Los Berrones, Melendi, or Pablo Und Destruktion, or watch some of the movies and shows that are filmed or take place in the city, such as Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Woody Allen, or Doctor Mateo.
Oviedo is a city that has a lot of cider and cheese, so you should taste some of the local specialties, such as sidra (apple cider), fabada (bean stew), cachopo (breaded meat with cheese and ham), and cabrales (blue cheese).
Bilbao: The Innovative and Dynamic City Break
Bilbao is the capital and largest city of the Basque Country, which is located in the northern part of Spain. It is a city that has an innovative and dynamic city break, where you can enjoy the transformation and creativity of a modern and avant-garde city. Bilbao is a city that has a spectacular and iconic architectural and artistic heritage, as well as a vibrant and diverse culture.
Some of the must-see attractions in Bilbao include:
Guggenheim Museum: The most famous and impressive building of the city, which is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture and design, created by Frank Gehry, and which houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, Koons, and Serra.
Casco Viejo: The oldest and most historic part of the city, where you can admire the architecture and monuments of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, such as the Cathedral of Santiago, the Plaza Nueva, and the Arriaga Theatre.
San Mames Stadium: The home and symbol of the Athletic Club, the local and legendary football team, which is a modern and impressive stadium that offers a great and exciting experience for the fans and visitors.
Funicular de Artxanda: A fun and scenic way to reach the top of the Artxanda mountain, which offers a panoramic and spectacular view of the city and the river.
Plaza Nueva: A large and elegant square that is located in the heart of the Casco Viejo, and which is the center of the social and cultural life of the city, where you can see the weekly flea market, the monthly book fair, and the daily pintxos (tapas) bars.
Tips for visiting Bilbao:
Bilbao is a very rainy and cloudy city, especially in the autumn and winter, so you should bring a raincoat and an umbrella to protect yourself from the rain.
Bilbao is also a very industrial and urban city, so you should be aware of the traffic and pollution, and use public transport, such as metro, bus, tram, and train, which are efficient and affordable.
Bilbao is a city that has a lot of identity and pride, so you should respect the language and culture of the Basque people, and learn some basic words and phrases in Basque, such as kaixo (hello), eskerrik asko (thank you), and agur (goodbye).
Bilbao is a city that has a lot of innovation and art, so you should visit some of the other museums and galleries that showcase the creativity and talent of the city and its artists, such as the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Azkuna Zentroa, and the Sala Rekalde.
Bilbao is a city that has a lot of pintxos and wine, so you should try some of the local specialties, such as bacalao al pil pil (cod in garlic sauce), txangurro (spider crab), txakoli (sparkling white wine), and rioja (red wine).
Salamanca: The Academic and Festive City Break
Salamanca is the capital and largest city of the province of Salamanca, which is located in the western part of Castile and Leon. It is a city that has an academic and festive city break, where you can enjoy the culture and atmosphere of a young and lively city. Salamanca is a city that has a magnificent and impressive architectural and artistic heritage, as well as a vibrant and cosmopolitan culture.
Some of the must-see attractions in Salamanca include:
University of Salamanca: The oldest and most prestigious university in Spain, and one of the oldest in Europe, which was founded in 1218, and which has a beautiful and historic campus, where you can see the famous facade, the library, the patio, and the frog, a symbol of good luck for the students.
Plaza Mayor: The main and most spectacular square of the city, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain, and which features a harmonious and elegant Baroque style, and a lively and festive atmosphere, where you can see the Town Hall, the Clock Tower, and the medallions of famous people.
Old Cathedral: The oldest and most remarkable cathedral of the city, which is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and art, and which features a tower, a cloister, a dome, and a chapel.
Semana Santa: The Holy Week, which is one of the most important and celebrated events in the city, and which involves a series of processions, ceremonies, and rituals, that display the religious and artistic heritage of the city, and that attract thousands of visitors and pilgrims every year.
Salamanca Fair: The annual fair that takes place in September, which coincides with the patron saint of the city, the Virgin of the Vega, and which involves a variety of activities, such as concerts, bullfights, fireworks, and markets.
Tips for visiting Salamanca:
Salamanca is a very hot and dry city, especially in the summer, so you should drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Salamanca is also a very student and party city, especially during the academic year, so you should enjoy the nightlife and entertainment options of the city, such as the bars, pubs, clubs, and theaters, as well as the famous “nochevieja universitaria” or student new year, which takes place in December.
Salamanca is a city that has a lot of culture and language, so you should visit some of the museums and monuments that showcase the history and literature of the city and its people, such as the Casa de las Conchas, the House of Cervantes, and the Museum of Salamanca.
Salamanca is a city that has a lot of charm and beauty, so you should admire the architecture and scenery of the city, especially at night, when the golden sandstone buildings and monuments are illuminated by the moonlight, creating a magical and romantic effect.
Salamanca is a city that has a lot of ham and cheese, so you should taste some of the local specialties, such as jamon iberico (cured ham), queso de la Serena (sheep cheese), hornazo (meat pie), and farinato (sausage).
Conclusion
We hope that this blog post has inspired you to take a Spanish city break in 2024, and that you have found some useful and interesting information about the 12 best Spain metropolises that you can visit. Spain is a country that has so much to offer, and that will surely exceed your expectations and make you fall in love with its culture, history, and people.
If you are ready to book your Spanish city break, then you should visit Travel Mind, the leading website for travel opportunities and advice. Travel Mind is a website that helps people from all around the world discover opportunities related to travel, visa, immigration, scholarship, and others.
