Hola, adventurous travelers, are you planning the escapade of a lifetime to the breathtaking Mediterranean country of Spain? The mix of cultures that permeates every region, the rich history and the enthralling architectural wonders dotting the landscape and the honey-hued coastline overlooking the Mediterranean, it all seems too much to be experienced in a single lifetime, let alone in a single trip.
But let’s try, shall we? While you’re destined to return to this fairytale kingdom more than once, led by the desire to explore and discover all the splendors kept within, there are a few key things to do on your first voyage to make it as memorable as possible. Here are the five experiences that will make you remember your travel to Spain forever.
The fire and passion of Flamenco
Flamenco is the life, blood, and history that runs through the veins of the country. The traditional song, dance, and music of the Iberian Peninsula that has preserved its roots to this very day is one of the reasons Spain is such a popular tourist attraction. If you’ve never seen a traditional flamenco performance, you’re in for a wild night.
The best part is that no matter where you go, whether you’re touring the cities along the southern coast, or if you’re visiting the capital of Madrid to the north, you’re bound to hear flamenco and its numerous iterations chiming from the bars, impromptu stages in the squares, and little alleyways leading to traditional restaurants. Spain is a country of song and dance, so be sure to experience your life-changing night of music and passion while there.
Fall in love with the Mediterranean coastline
It should go without saying that there can be no trip to Spain without an all-encompassing tour of the Mediterranean coastline, spanning from Lloret de Mar, the party capital of Europe in the east, all the way to the southern shore of Gibraltar overlooking the North-African coastline and Morocco.
There is so much to see and do here, and each city and historic town along the way will take through different time periods defined by numerous cultures that once reigned in the region. Revel in the architectural wonders of the Moor civilization in Alhambra, Cordoba, and Seville, and then take an extended trip to Barcelona, the culture capital of the world.
Visit the culture capital of the world
Barcelona, the capital of the Catalonia region, is a unique and bewildering place. World-renowned for its architecture and art scene, this historic setting portrays a mixture of rich cultural heritage and innovation at every corner. The city where some of the world’s leading artists lived – Antonio Gaudi, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali – clearly bears the marks of artistic influences from numerous time periods, and best of all, it cherishes this cultural heritage in numerous museums and outdoor installations.
There is no better way to experience this cultural epicenter than by taking one of many Barcelona day tours that will bring you closer to architectural wonders such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and many, many more. While there, be sure to walk the bewildering promenade of La Rambla, where music, song, and dance will greet you at every corner. If you have the time, be sure to take a tour of the Gran Teatre Del Liceu – the Royal Opera House.
Lose yourself in the famous culinary delights
If you weren’t a foodie traveler before, Spain is bound to turn you into one, because the local palate comprised of some of the famous culinary delights such as Tapas, the Tortilla Espanola, and the Paella are bound to steal your heart. Oh, but there is so much more.
You also want to try fresh seafood grilled directly on the beach, or visit a local restaurant for a hot plate of Gambas Ajillo (garlic prawns), or how about a delicious Crema Catalana dessert served in one of the cafes overlooking La Rambla itself in Barcelona? The Spanish menu is rich and diverse, and if you don’t object to a little night cap at the end of the day, make sure you finish it with a hearty glass of freshly-made Sangria.
Discover the cultures that shaped the country
To take a trip to the birthplace of modern civilization and miss out on the cultural and historic sites erected by reigning factions throughout the centuries, would be, quite frankly, a trip poorly spent. So be sure to visit the historic towns and fortresses gracing the Mediterranean coastline, such as Barcelona, Valencia, Murcia, Alhambra, Málaga, Córdoba, and Seville. Up north, beautifully-preserved cities of Zaragoza, Pamplona, San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santiago de Compostela also await your awe and admiration.
The Kingdom of Spain is a rich and diverse multicultural setting imbued with timeless charm and unparalleled beauty permeating every city, and every historic town across the map. No matter where you go, no matter how long your visit lasts, your heart is bound to stay in the warm and passionate embrace of España.
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