Spain is a country with a million charms. Its cultural diversity, stunning architecture, vibrant historical heritage, and extraordinary beaches attract tourists regardless of their definition of vacation.
Spain’s diverse cultural heritage is influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and Christians. It’s also home to world-renowned artists like Picasso, Dalí, and Velázquez.
Spain Guide: First-timer Destinations
So, you're a first-timer in Spain. The warm climate that the Mediterranean is known for has got you thrilled to sightsee. Without the hassle of scrambling through the interwebs, we have a list of destinations with stunning visuals and exoticism that'll captivate the heart of every first-timer.
Alhambra De Granada
Let's start with the city of Granada. The Alhambra De Granada is often touted as one of Spain's tourist icons. Nicknamed the Red Palace, you can gaze at the reddish outer walls of the palace accentuating the opulent and magnificent architecture.
This symbol of the Umayyad dynasty's glory in Europe spans about 14 hectares comprising three main parts: Mexuar (the oldest part of the palace), Comares Palace (the sultan's throne area), and Arrayan (a large pond in the middle of itana). Because it is located at 150 metres, Alhambra De Granada is ideal for you to be mesmerised by the city view. Tickets are sold for 14.5 Euros. But bear in mind the tickets are consistently high in demand so book them at least four months in advance.
Ibiza
Hop on a boat across the bright blue sparkling sea to the iconic party island of Ibiza. When the sun is up and shiny, you can get your tan along the powdery white sand beaches or visit the stunning piers adjacent. The Spaniards adore Ibiza in the summer - and so do a bunch of sunseekers from all around the world.
This island stretches 571 square kilometres. Aside from natural wonders, you can relish the delectable Spanish cuisine provided at cafes by the piers. As soon as the sun drops, the beat drops too. You can find legendary clubs such as the Privilege and Amnesia Club that can accommodate up to thousands of people.
La Roca Village
Time for shopping! La Roca Village is tucked in Catalunya City, a haven for aficionados of branded goods at low prices. You can find Dolce & Gabbana, Fossil, Burberry, Gucci, Versace, Onitsuka Tiger, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Timberland, Guess, Adidas, Nike, and more brands for half the price.
The low prices are due to the items being out of season, similar to La Vallee Village in Paris. The products are still in new condition and speaking of quality, it is surely maintained.
Museo Del Prado
For the lovers of art, Museo Del Prado is Spain’s national art museum located in Madrid. Its magnificent medieval architecture is almost two centuries old! Inside, thousands of paintings, sculptures, and intriguing drawings by Diego Velázquez, Francisco El Greco, Goya, Peter Paul Rubens, Titian, Hieronymus Bosch, and more are on display. Whenever you need a break, cafes and bookstores are easily accessible to you.
Museo Del Prado was founded by King Ferdinand VII in 1819. Initially, it only housed the art collection of the Spanish royal family before it was finally opened to the public and became one of the largest art museums in the world. The museum is open every day except 1st May, New Year's Day, and Christmas Day. The museum is open from 10 AM to 8 PM, priced at around 14 Euros and 23 Euros if you decide to hire a tour guide.
Palacio Real De Madrid
In Madrid, there is also a palace that has been the official residence of the Spanish royal family since 1735. This is Palacio Real De Madrid. However, the Palacio Real De Madrid is more often used as a place for state ceremonies because the current King and his family now live in the Palacio de la Zarzuela on the outskirts of Madrid.
The most magnificent palace in Spain has 3,618 rooms, but those that are open to the public are limited to 50 rooms. You can see the stateroom as well as other special rooms, such as the Real Armorial which displays a myriad of ancient weapons, armour, and other war equipment and the Pharmacia which displays the history of medicine. Book your ticket online for 10 Euros.
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is one of Madrid's most famous landmarks. Built in the 17th century under the name Plaza del Arrabal, this square has a rich history including as a market square. Plaza Mayor has been a place of public execution and bullfighting as entertainment for Spaniards throughout the square’s existence. Today, Plaza Mayor is used for De Idiro festivals and Christmas Market celebrations.
Plaza Mayor is surrounded by buildings with charming European architecture, such as Casa de la Panaderia, which features frescoes and murals. You can also find a statue of King Philip III on horseback standing in the middle of the square. You are free to visit here but some special places set their own rates.
Sierra Nevada
Looking to get away from the Mediterranean heat? We got you. Sierra Nevada is located in Andalusia with its highest peak called Mulhacen. This is the perfect winter destination between November and June if you love snow and seeing it covering the mountains to silky white.
Play with snow to your heart's content! Try out ski rides and go hiking the mountain range.