Travelling through Spain, you encounter Roman ruins, medieval walls, Islamic influences, and Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Modernist architecture, creating a fascinating cultural legacy and a captivating blend of styles.
Spain also boasts an incredibly diverse range of landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Pyrenees; the sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean; charming villages and picturesque valleys in the north; vast olive groves and rugged mountains rising against the clear blue sky of Andalusia in the south; and the Meseta in the centre, a vast plateau of expansive vistas and golden fields of wheat, and home to historic cities.
Vibrant Barcelona
Exploring Spain’s cities today, you find yourself in a vibrant and diverse atmosphere that beautifully combines the old with the new. Barcelona, with its lively waterfront, sandy beaches, and palm-lined promenades, epitomizes the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. You can immerse yourself in the works of Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and other masters, as well as discover emerging talents in the city's creative neighbourhoods and dynamic contemporary arts scene.
It is also home to some of the most interesting and innovative architecture of its time such as the Palacio Guell, Casa Mila and the famous Sagrada Familia designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.
Montserrat and its Abbey
On the outskirts, nestled in the rugged Montserrat mountain range, the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey is a Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 11th century. Pilgrims congregate to revere La Moreneta, the Black Madonna, and listen to one of the oldest boys' choirs in Europe, the Escolania de Montserrat.
The medieval cities of Toledo, Segovia & Avila
Toledo, Segovia and Avila are excellent day trip destinations from Madrid due to their rich history, medieval architecture, and cultural significance. Their well-preserved gothic cathedrals, Alcázar palaces or fortresses, ancient city walls and fascinating historic centres make them UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth exploring.
Madrid, the capital
Madrid is replete with world-class museums, galleries and theatres, showcasing a wide range of artistic styles. In the El Prado Museum, the Golden Age of Spanish art is reflected in the dramatic and mystical paintings of El Greco, the powerful works of Goya, the masterful portraits and genre scenes of Velázquez. The Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol are landmarks that reflect the city's royal history and grandeur.
Bilbao & San Sebastian in the North
To the north are Bilbao and San Sebastián offering a unique blend of culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making them must-see destinations in the Basque Country. Bilbao’s transformation from a declining industrial city to a vibrant cultural centre is a testament to its successful urban regeneration efforts. Perhaps the most recognised symbol of the city’s revitalisation is the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture designed by Frank Gehry. Its titanium-clad exterior and innovative design have made it a global architectural landmark.
San Sebastián, also known as Donostia in Basque, is a culinary paradise, known for its world-class cuisine and pintxos culture. The city has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the world, offering a diverse range of gastronomic experiences, from high-end dining to traditional pintxos bars in the lively Old Town.
Moorish influences in Southern Spain
The south of Spain was ruled by the Moors for nearly 800 years, leaving a profound impact on its architecture, cuisine, and culture. Al-Andalus became a centre of learning and innovation, with significant advancements in fields such as science, mathematics, medicine, philosophy, and architecture.
The stunning Alhambra in Granada, the Great Mosque of Córdoba, and the Alcázar of Seville are just a few examples of the spectacular Moorish architecture that defines the region.