Spain often sits near the top of the list of countries to visit on a Europe trip. The warm climate, beautiful beaches, laid-back culture, and mouth-watering cuisine make wanting to check off some Spain bucket list experiences hard to resist.
And although Spain isn’t a huge country, there is plenty to do and see here nonetheless. Here are 10 incredible experiences you’ll want to add to your Spain bucket list.
Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.
I recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, an affordable travel insurance offering automatic monthly payments that you can cancel anytime. I've been using it since 2019, and I can assure you it's the perfect solution for nomads like you and me. Learn more by reading our SafetyWing review.
See The Sights In Madrid
The first stop on most people’s Spanish adventure is Madrid, the capital city.
Madrid is renowned for its fashion and art scene and its historical buildings, food markets, and royal heritage. As a result, there is so much to see in the capital city.
One of the most famous buildings in Madrid is the Prado Museum, which showcases works by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. The expansive gallery features over 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures.
Afterward, check out the beautiful 19th-century El Retiro Park next door. A popular activity here is boating around the small lake, and you can rent one for less than 10 euros.
The 2000-room Royal Palace is another must-see for those interested in the history and monarchy of Spain. Foodies should check out Saint Michael Market, and shopping enthusiasts will love the bustling high street, Gran Vía.
Admire The Sagrada Familia In Barcelona
One of Spain’s most famous landmarks is Sagrada Familia, in the Catalonian capital of Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia is the majestic unfinished basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí before his death, blending Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture.
What’s unique about this building is that this unfinished art nouveau masterpiece has been under construction for 140 years, set for final completion in 2026. The landmark looks incredible from the outside, but you can explore inside, too.
Check Out The View From Barcelona’s Park Guell
While walking the streets of Barcelona, you’ll spot many Gaudí designs other than the Sagrada Familia, easily distinguishable for their distinct style. Park Guell is the second most famous landmark, after the Sagrada Familia.
The hilltop park in the north of the city combines Mosaic-tiled buildings and artsy sculptures with landscaped gardens and panoramic views over the city. It’s at its most beautiful around sunset, but also very crowded.
So, if you prefer to explore the charming park in peace, head there in the morning instead.
If you’re inspired to see other Gaudi sights while in Barcelona, check out Casa Milà, which has one of the most unique rooftops you’ll ever see. You’ll find 30 creatively designed chimney sculptures on the terrace with a spectacular city view in the background.
Go On A Tapas Tasting Tour In Granada
Tapas in Spain is just as popular as pizza in Italy, so you’ll find excellent tapas all over the country. Tapas are small plates of finger food, eaten as an appetizer or snack, usually accompanied by a Sangria or other drink.
Because this Spanish cuisine is so famous, you’ll find tapas crawls and tasting tours in major tourist destinations. However, the best place to eat tapas is undoubtedly Granada, which is the birthplace of this Mediterranean finger food.
What’s more, Granada is one of the only places in Spain where you’ll be offered complimentary tapas with any aperitif purchase in a bar. The city’s long-standing tradition is similar to Milan’s “Aperitivo” in Italy.
You can try all the tasty dishes on your own bar crawl. Of course, Patatas Bravas and Croquetas will be the most familiar dishes.
Still, there are many others worth trying with meat, seafood, and veggie options.
See A Flamenco Show In Seville
Seville in Andalucia is famed for its flamenco dancing and architectural designs.
If you’ve never heard of it before, a flamenco show is an artistic dance that weaves together various folkloric music traditions of southern Spain. It can be performed solo, in pairs, or even in a larger group.
The dance style is highly expressive with dazzling dresses, lots of hand-clapping, and impressive footwork. It is usually accompanied by a singer and guitar player.
Museo del Baile Flamenco is one of the most famous places to watch a show in Seville, with performances every evening. The venue is also home to the Flamenco Dance Museum, where you can see and touch some marvelous costumes and dresses.
While in Seville, be sure to make time for a trip to the 16th-century Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. And don’t miss the UNESCO-listed palace Real Alcazar, the oldest used palace in Europe.
Blend The High Life With The Simple Life In Marbella
Spain boasts over 4,660 mi (7,500 km) of stunning coastline with approximately 3,000 beaches. So it’s no surprise Spain is a popular beach vacation destination for the British, Germans, and other Europeans living in colder climates.
The Costa del Sol in Southern Spain is one of the most popular and most beautiful tourist destinations. Here you will find plenty of picturesque coastal towns, serene bays, and dramatic cliffs along its 93 miles (150 kilometers) of coastline.
Marbella is one of the top places to be seen here, known as Spain’s playground for the rich and famous. Celebrities flock here on their luxury yachts and frequent the prestigious nightclubs, exclusive golf resorts, and upmarket boutiques and bars.
However, aside from the glitz and glam, you will find a gorgeous old town, several untouched beaches, and some lovely hiking areas. Therefore, Marbella offers a splendid mix of pampering and nature, suiting every traveler.
Party (Or Relax) On Ibiza Island
It’s easy to forget that there is so much more to Spain than the mainland. The European country has more than 60 islands, ranging from tourist hotspots to uninhabited islets.
One of the most famous is the party island of Ibiza. So if you’re even slightly a party animal, a visit to Ibiza should be on your Spain bucket list!
Ibiza is home to some of the most renowned nightclubs worldwide, such as Amnesia, Eden, Pacha, and Ibiza Rocks. However, the island is just as buzzing during the day thanks to its exclusive beach clubs like Cotton Club and O Beach, where you’ll find the most happening pool parties.
But what if you’re not one for partying? Is Ibiza still worth a visit?
I would say absolutely, as there is a hidden side to the island that few people know about. Outside of the party towns like San Antonio, you’ll find blissful yoga retreat centers, hippy markets, and secret beaches.
The scenery on the island is nothing less than stunning, too, making a trip to Ibiza an ideal Spanish hiking vacation!
Soak Up The Sun In Alicante
The Costa Blanca on the southeastern coast of Spain features 124 miles (200 kilometers) of the gorgeous Mediterranean coastline. The most well-known province is Alicante, a popular beach vacation spot for many.
If you want to incorporate some relaxed beach days into your Spain trip, it’s well worth spending some time here. From Playa San Juan to Cala del Moraig to Platja de la Granadella, there is an abundance of blissful bays with soft sand and turquoise waters.
However, the sights in Alicante extend well beyond the beaches. First, check out the Castle of Santa Barbara, an ancient fort with medieval Arab origins.
It sits atop a mountain giving impressive views of the city and ocean. Then wander through the narrow laneways and staircases in the old Casco Antiguo village just beneath the castle.
Go Wine Tasting In La Rioja
Did you know that Spain is the world’s third-largest wine producer? In the north, La Rioja is the country’s most famous wine region with an impressive history that dates back to the 2nd century BC!
The wines produced in this region are based on the Tempranillo grape variety but blended with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. The region has over 500 wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours.
Marques de Riscal is one of the most famous wineries with luxurious accommodations. The area also offers many other activities, such as horse-riding, hot-air ballooning, and 4WD excursions around the picturesque Ebro valley.
Learn How To Make Paella In Valencia
Aside from tapas, the most famous Spanish dish is paella, which you will find at every restaurant in every town and city.
Paella, which consists of rice, saffron, and meat or seafood, originates from Valencia, a port city on the southeastern coast. Therefore, you will find some of the best in the country here.
Navarro, La Riuá, and La Pepica are some of the most renowned restaurants in Valencia, so make sure you stay a few days to visit them all. In between eating, check out the uniquely-designed museums, like the City of the Arts and Sciences.
This eye-catching cultural center consists of six buildings constructed on the dry river bed of the now diverted River Turia. The complexes include a planetarium, IMAX Cinema, and a botanical garden.
Final Thoughts On Spain Bucket List Experiences
Spain’s abundant sunshine, welcoming locals, and stunning scenery make it one of the most charming European countries. Furthermore, from impressive city architecture to pristine coastline to vibrant cultural traditions, there’s a diverse range of things to do, making for a jam-packed Spain bucket list.
Visiting Spain soon? Read one of the following guides:
