Spain has been one of the most popular holiday destinations for years and a place people return to again and again. The atmosphere is relaxed, the cities each have their own character and you can visit all year round for sun, culture and good food. Whether you like the beach, city walks, markets or museums, you will always find a city to suit you in Spain. In this blog, we list the most beautiful cities in Spain, ideal for those looking for inspiration!
Spain's most beautiful cities at a glance
Wondering which cities in Spain are really worth visiting? Below we share the most popular cities and handy tips for a cool citytrip or holidays to Spain!
1. Barcelona: vibrant art, beaches and endless exploring
Barcelona is a city where a lot comes together. The mix of architecture, cosy neighbourhoods and the beach makes it a fine destination for both a short city break and a longer holiday. Gaudí's famous buildings, such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and Park Güell, give the city its distinct look, but it is mainly the different neighbourhoods that make Barcelona so much fun.
One of Barcelona's big pluses is that the beach is a short distance from the city centre. Ideal if you want to combine city and beach. Foodies are also in the right place: from simple tapas to modern cuisines, you'll find it all within easy reach.
Why is Barcelona so popular for a city break?
Barcelona is popular because you find culture, beach, nice neighbourhoods and good food close together, allowing you to see and do a lot in a short time. We thought it was a great city and is not in our list of Spain's most beautiful cities for nothing!
2. Seville: atmospheric squares and Andalusian cosiness
Seville is one of those cities where life takes place outside. Coffee in a small square, tapas in the evening sun and cosy streets. You'll find famous buildings like the Real Alcázar and the Cathedral, but Seville is especially fun because of the atmosphere in its neighbourhoods.
The Santa Cruz district is cosy and snug, with narrow streets and surprising courtyards. The city feels uncluttered, warm and very accessible, ideal for those who like to stroll around and be outside a lot.
What makes Seville such a fine destination?
Seville is loved for its combination of beautiful historical buildings, atmospheric neighbourhoods and a pleasant climate, making the city a great place to visit all year round.
3. Valencia: beach nearby, an old city and plenty of space for walking
Valencia should not be missing from the list of Spain's most beautiful cities. It is a fine city for those who like to alternate between beach and city. The historical centre is compact with cosy squares, market halls and nice terraces. Just outside the centre you will find the modern buildings of Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a totally different side of the city, but therefore interesting.
Turia park, which runs right through the city, is the ideal place to cycle, walk or picnic. Since the beach is also nearby, Valencia feels uncluttered and more relaxed than many other big cities.
Why is Valencia ideal for a summer city break?
Valencia is ideal in summer thanks to its combination of a compact centre, wide beaches a short distance away and plenty of sunshine hours.
4. Granada: beautiful views, atmospheric neighbourhoods and lots of history
Perhaps not a very well-known city, but this city should not be missing from this list. Granada is a city known for the world-famous Alhambra, but it has much more to offer besides that. In the Albaicín district, walk through narrow streets with beautiful viewpoints over the city. The city feels lively, but not crowded, and is ideal for those looking for a combination of culture, fine neighbourhoods and beautiful views.
What is the Alhambra and why is it visited by so many people?
The Alhambra is a medieval palace and fortress complex in Granada (southern Spain). It was built by the Moorish rulers who ruled Andalusia for centuries. It is one of the best-preserved examples of Islamic architecture in Europe. As a result, it attracts millions of visitors every year.
5. Madrid: city life at its best
Madrid is the capital of Spain and surely one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. It offers a perfect mix. You'll find museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, great squares, markets and lots of green spaces like the Retiro park. The Malasaña district is nice for small shops and coffee bars, La Latina for tapas and Plaza Mayor for wandering around. Madrid feels big, but very cosy at the same time!
Is Madrid a good city for a city trip?
Yes. Madrid has well-known museums, many green parks, cosy neighbourhoods and plenty of restaurants, making the city suitable for both short and longer city breaks.
6. Málaga: beach, nice centre and surprisingly much to do
Whereas Málaga used to be seen mainly as a gateway to the Costa del Sol, the city is now a top destination in its own right. With the Alcazaba fortress, the Picasso Museum, atmospheric tapas bars and a beautiful beach, Málaga combines all the ingredients for a successful city break.
Why do travellers choose Málaga?
Travellers choose Málaga because you will find a beach, a compact historic centre and cultural attractions within short distances
7. Cordoba: compact city with atmospheric streets and beautiful buildings
Córdoba is a small city but should not be missing from our list of Spain's most beautiful cities. It is a lot quieter here than Málaga or Seville, but that is precisely what makes the city the ideal place for a city trip or holiday. The Mezquita, with its red-and-white arches, is among Spain's most extraordinary structures. The old historic centre, the patios and the Roman bridge make Cordoba one of Andalusia's most photogenic cities. The old town is atmospheric with narrow streets, white facades and patios that are especially beautiful in bloom in spring.
What makes Córdoba special?
Cordoba stands out for its Mezquita (former mosque later converted into a cathedral), its atmospheric old town and its compact layout, making it easy to discover the city on foot.
8. San Sebastián: surf, beach and great food
San Sebastián is located in northern Spain, in a green region with hills and beautiful coastlines. The city has two well-known beaches: Playa de La Concha and Zurriola Beach. The atmosphere is relaxed and the surf vibe can be seen everywhere.
Besides, the food here is delicious! Pinchos bars can be found on almost every street and the city has both simple eateries and elaborate restaurants!
Why is San Sebastián known for food?
San Sebastián is known for its pinchos bars and restaurants. The city also has one of the highest numbers of good restaurants per inhabitant in Spain. Fun fact!
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Which Spanish city best suits your travel style?
Spain has cities for every type of traveller. To make your choice easier, it helps to think about what you are looking for first:
Beach & city: Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga, San Sebastián
Culture & history: Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Madrid
Food & gastronomy: San Sebastián, Madrid, Seville
Romantic city break: Seville, Granada, Valencia
Frequently asked questions about city trips in Spain
Which cities in Spain are the most beautiful?
Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Granada, Madrid, Málaga, Cordoba and San Sebastián are among the most popular and popular cities among travellers.
What is the best travel time for a city break in Spain?
For city breaks, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the best travel times. It is not so hot then and also not too crowded.
Is Spain a good destination for short city breaks?
Yes. Thanks to direct flights from Belgium or the Netherlands and short flight times, Spanish cities are ideal for a weekend or midweek getaway.
Which Spanish cities are nice in winter?
For winter sun, Málaga, Valencia and Seville are the best choices because of their milder climate.
Which cities in Spain are best for a romantic holiday?
For a romantic holiday in Spain Seville, Granada and Valencia the most suitable cities from this list. Seville is perfect if you love atmospheric squares, cosy streets and long evenings outside with tapas. Granada is ideal for couples who like to combine culture and beautiful views, culminating in the Alhambra and cosy neighbourhoods such as Albaicín. Valencia is a fine choice if you want to combine romance with relaxation, as you have a compact old centre here as well as the beach nearby.
Want to combine romance with city and beach, then fit Barcelona and Málaga also good: both have a nice centre, lots of atmosphere and you are right by the sea.
Which Spanish cities are best for a first city break?
For a first city trip to Spain, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville are best suited. These cities are manageable, easily accessible and offer a nice mix of sights, food and atmosphere, without having to plan everything tightly in advance.
Whether you choose one city or combine several destinations, Spain has something for everyone. The important thing is not which city you choose, but that you take a trip that suits your needs! We hope this blog has given you new ideas and helped you plan a trip to Spain that suits your needs, travel time and budget. Still not quite there or have questions about any of the destinations? Drop us a line at Instagram or mail to [email protected].
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