Spain
Spain is a country that knows how to live. The Spanish do not eat dinner before 9 PM. They take siestas seriously. They gather in plazas and parks and stay out late talking and laughing with friends, family, and complete strangers. The energy is infectious, and it is one of the reasons Spain consistently ranks as one of the most popular destinations in the world.
The country is also wildly diverse. The Catalonia of Barcelona with its Gaudi architecture and Mediterranean beaches feels like a different country from the Andalusia of Seville with its flamenco and Moorish palaces. The Basque Country in the north has its own language, its own cuisine, and a food culture that rivals anything in France or Italy. And the islands, from Mallorca to Ibiza to the Canary Islands, offer beach escapes that range from quiet and refined to all night and legendary.
Where to Go
Barcelona is where most first timers start, and for good reason. Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, still unfinished after more than 140 years, is one of the most extraordinary buildings on Earth. Park Guell, Casa Batllo, and La Pedrera showcase more of his genius. The Gothic Quarter has narrow medieval streets, hidden plazas, and excellent tapas bars. La Boqueria market on Las Ramblas is a feast for the senses.
Madrid is the capital and the cultural powerhouse. The Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia (home to Picasso’s Guernica), and the Thyssen Bornemisza together form one of the greatest museum triangles in the world. The city’s tapas scene is legendary, especially in the neighborhoods of La Latina and Malasana. Retiro Park is one of the most beautiful urban parks in Europe.
Seville is the heart of flamenco, and seeing an authentic performance in a small tablao in the Triana neighborhood is an experience that gives you chills. The Alcazar, a Moorish palace still used by the Spanish royal family, is as impressive as the Alhambra in Granada. The Cathedral of Seville is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and climbing the Giralda bell tower gives you views across the rooftops.
San Sebastian in the Basque Country has the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants per capita in the world. The pintxos (Basque tapas) bars along the old town streets are an institution. La Concha Beach is one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe.
Food and Drink
Spanish food is built around sharing. Tapas culture means you order multiple small dishes, share them with the table, and order more. Jamon iberico (cured Iberian ham) is the national treasure. Patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), tortilla espanola (potato omelette), and pan con tomate (bread with tomato) are staples everywhere.
Wine is excellent and affordable. Rioja and Ribera del Duero produce world class reds. Albarino from Galicia is one of the best white wines you will ever taste. And a glass of wine at a tapas bar rarely costs more than three or four euros.
Let Us Plan Your Spain Trip
Spain is a country best experienced at its own pace. We will help you choose the right cities, connect them efficiently by train or domestic flight, and find the hotels and restaurants that make each stop memorable. Whether you want a Barcelona and Madrid city break or a two week road trip through Andalusia and the Basque Country, we will build a trip that fits.
