18 Best Things to do in Spain

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Want to experience Spain like a pro? These are our top picks.

From Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona to the Moorish palaces of Andalusia, the sun-soaked shores of the Balearic Islands, and the irresistible flavors of tapas and paella, Spain blends history, culture, and flavor like nowhere else. We’ve crisscrossed the country, joining tours, savoring regional dishes, and uncovering hidden corners, to bring you the very best experiences.

In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for tours, day trips, and activities, each one personally tried and chosen to help you skip the guesswork and dive straight into Spain’s magic. Let’s jump into the unforgettable experiences that make this country truly shine!

Things to do in Spain

1. Explore Avila and Segovia – Two of Spain’s oldest cities

One of our favorite things about traveling to Spain is the chance to explore its rich history and beautiful architecture. So when we saw this full-day tour to two of Spain’s oldest cities, we just had to book it! 

Avila and Segovia are two gorgeous medieval cities, and both are within easy reach of Madrid, so fortunately, there’s not too much travel time involved. Booking this tour also saved us from having to rent a car, and I’m certain that it worked out cheaper, too. 

We began in Ávila by visiting the Basilica de San Vicente, a stunning blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture founded in the 11th century and completed over two centuries later. From there, we explored the Convent of Santa Teresa, an important pilgrimage site, where our guide, Sarah, shared fascinating insights into Spanish Catholicism. Before leaving, we enjoyed a light snack and drink in Ávila, then set off for Segovia.

Segovia was even more captivating! We started at the awe-inspiring 1st-century Roman Aqueduct before heading to the grand Cathedral, one of the most impressive we’ve ever seen. The day ended at the Alcázar de Segovia, perched high above the city and famously said to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle—a fitting finale to a day that truly felt like stepping into a fairytale.

This tour made it so easy to visit all of the most beautiful attractions that these ancient cities have to offer. It does tend to sell out, though, so make sure to book in advance!

Check out more than 8,500 five-star reviews and book this tour here!

2. Tour the Sagrada Familia

Did you even go to Barcelona if you didn’t tour the Sagrada Familia?

Gaudí’s still-unfinished cathedral is the city’s most visited landmark, which is why booking this skip-the-line tour was a total game-changer!  We visited a lot of churches and cathedrals on our travels throughout Europe, but the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is truly unlike any other! You absolutely cannot miss it. 

Its fame does come with long queues, but this tour lets you skip them entirely, giving you more time to explore the city. Plus, with our knowledgeable guide, Gloria, we gained fascinating insights into the cathedral’s history and design that we never would have learned on our own.

Gloria was excellent and taught us so much about the significance of the church’s unique architectural features and how Gaudí blended art and spirituality in his work. Going with a guide made our visit so much richer. We got headsets, too, so we never had any trouble hearing! 

This tour was well worth the price, and after our 1.5 hours were up, we were able to stay inside the church and continue exploring by ourselves. Just a heads-up—it’s incredibly popular and often sells out well in advance, so be sure to reserve your spot early!

Book this tour with over 5,000 five-star reviews here and skip the line!

Related Read: If you’re planning a trip to Spain, check out our detailed 10-day itinerary that goes over all the must-see spots in Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville!

3. Taste Spain’s famous tapas and wine

Food is central to Spanish culture, and a guided tour is one of the best ways to experience it. Each region has its own flavors and traditions, from pintxos in San Sebastian to tapas in Barcelona and Madrid. With a local guide, you’ll skip the tourist traps, discover authentic spots, and learn the history and customs behind every bite and sip.

San Sebastian

One of the absolute best ways to experience San Sebastian is through its food, and nothing captures the city’s flavor better than a night spent hopping between pintxos bars. We joined this walking tour through the Old Town and were blown away by how much depth and variety we discovered.

Our guide, Gorka, led us to six different spots, each with its own specialty and local story. From the outside, some looked like simple neighborhood bars, but inside we were served beautifully prepared pintxos—think fresh grilled prawns, slow-cooked meats, creamy cod, and just-crisp croquetas. And with only eight people in the group, there was plenty of time to ask questions and really engage without feeling like part of a crowd.

One fun thing we learned is that locals almost never sit for a long meal when they’re out for pintxos. They eat standing at the bar, often ordering one or two bites at a time before moving on to the next place. It’s fast-paced, social, and incredibly satisfying!

This tour is a great way to dive into San Sebastian’s food culture without having to guess which places are worth visiting. You can also book it as a private experience if you want something even more personal!

Learn why San Sebastian is the gastronomic capital of Spain and book this tour here!

Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for tapas, so what better way to explore than with this awesome food tour? We always book a tasting to experience a new culture, and this one impressed us with amazing tapas and perfectly paired local drinks!

We visited five different bars and restaurants, where we enjoyed a variety of tapas, including Iberian cured meats, fresh sardines, croquetas, and, of course, the iconic patatas bravas. But my favorite was the mojama, a salt-cured tuna—perfect for anyone eager to discover new dishes!

Plus, everything was paired perfectly with local drinks! We got to enjoy several different red and white wines, cava, and even vermouth! Vermouth is very popular in Spain, so we really got to drink like locals. 

We also loved our guide, Nacho, who made the tour so much fun and taught us a lot about Barcelona’s famous food scene. He also told us stories about the different neighborhoods that we passed through, and he gave us some great recommendations for the rest of our time in the city. 

You can go at lunch or dinner time, but either way, do not miss the chance to do this tour while you’re in Barcelona. It’s one of the best food tours that we have ever done! 

Read THOUSANDS of five-star reviews and reserve this food tour here!

Madrid

Enjoying as many tapas (and plenty of local drinks) as possible is a must in Spain, and this Madrid tapas tour is the perfect way to do it. Wanting to avoid tourist traps, we booked this experience and weren’t disappointed!

Our guide, Noemi, led us through the charming Literary Quarter—once a favorite haunt of writers like Hemingway—to four authentic tapas bars popular with locals. At each stop, we sampled 3–4 dishes paired with local beverages, including a delicious sherry from Spain’s famous “sherry triangle.” Other drinks were also available for those who preferred them.

Plus, the food was incredible and included Spanish classics like Iberian ham, salted cod, chickpea stew, and green peppers. Those peppers were especially fun since Noemi explained that while most are mild, occasionally you get a fiery one, making it feel like culinary roulette!

This tour gave us an authentic taste of Madrid’s food culture and left us smitten with its tapas scene. It was one of the best things we did in the city, and we’d gladly do it again. For anyone who loves good food and authentic local experiences, this is an absolute must when visiting Madrid—just check out THOUSANDS of glowing five-star reviews here and see why this is an absolute must when visiting Madrid!

Book this food tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!

4. Tour the Alhambra and get skip-the-line tickets to Generalife Gardens

Skipping the long entry lines and stepping straight into the Alhambra was the best way to start this medieval history tour! The sprawling complex isn’t just Granada’s most famous landmark—it’s a journey through centuries of history.

Our tour began in the Generalife Gardens, a peaceful retreat once used by Granada’s rulers. With fountains, shaded courtyards, and lush greenery, it was easy to see why they chose this spot to escape the heat! From there, we wandered through the Alhambra Medina, the old residential quarter where nobles, artisans, and palace workers once lived.

Climbing to the top of the Alcazaba was an adventure and gave us some of the best panoramic views! The steep stairs and winding pathways led us through ancient stone walls, with whitewashed houses on one side and the Sierra Nevada mountains on the other.

But the best part was stepping inside the Nasrid Palaces! The stucco carvings, intricate archways, and famous Court of the Lions were even more impressive in person. 

Every detail told a story, and with our guide, Christian, leading the way, those stories came to life. His deep knowledge of Granada’s Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences made it even more fascinating.

And with just 20 people in our group, we could ask questions and never felt rushed. For a deeper, more engaging visit to the Alhambra, this small-group tour is the best way to go!

Book this guided Alhambra tour here and secure skip-the-line entry!

5. Visit the Royal Alcazar and Cathedral of Seville

This skip-the-line tour is hands down our top choice of things to do in Seville! The Cathedral and the Royal Alcazar are must-see attractions, and tickets can sell out during peak times, so this tour guaranteed we would get in!

First up, we went to the breathtaking Cathedral of Seville. Our guide, Ishmael, was super personable and really knew his Sevillano history. His stories brought it to life, and we loved admiring the Gothic architecture. Plus, Christopher Columbus—yes, THE Christopher Columbus —is buried here, so we got to see his tomb.

However, the highlight of our visit was climbing the cathedral’s bell tower, La Giralda. We were relieved to learn that we didn’t have to tackle hundreds of steps to get to the top. Instead, we walked up a series of ramps, which felt much easier. But once we got up there and saw the panoramic views, we both agreed that thousands of stairs would still have been worth it! 

Later on, we were wowed by the blend of Islamic and Christian architecture at the Royal Alcazar. After a guided tour of the palace, we had some free time to explore the gardens further. We were excited to learn that they were featured in Game of Thrones! 

Overall, this tour was an easy way to visit Seville’s most important historic sites. We got a real sense for the city’s rich heritage, and the skip-the-line tickets meant that there was no waiting around.

This tour frequently sells out—grab your spot here before it’s too late!

Related Read: Seville is an amazing place with tons to do. To help you decide what to put on your itinerary, have a look at our 10 favorite activities here!

6. Learn how to make Spain’s finest dishes in a cooking class

Spain’s culinary traditions are best experienced by learning to cook its most iconic dish—paella. In Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia, these hands-on classes mix expert instruction with local drinks, market visits, and plenty of laughter. 

You’ll master authentic techniques, discover the secrets behind fresh ingredients, and enjoy your creations in a lively, social setting. It’s a delicious and memorable way to connect with Spanish culture while making unforgettable memories. Here’s how to enjoy this must-try experience in three of the country’s most iconic cities.

Barcelona

This paella cooking class was easily one of the best things we did in Barcelona! It combined hands-on learning, amazing food, and unlimited drinks—what’s not to love?

Starting at 8 pm (because dinner is late in Spain), we were welcomed with a sparkling beverage and introduced to our chef, Kevin. His charisma and passion for Catalan cuisine made the evening both fun and educational. We prepared starters, desserts, and several varieties of paella, learning that this iconic dish involves much more than just rice and seafood.

Throughout the class, the staff kept our glasses full, adding to the lively, social atmosphere. Once everything was ready, we sat down family-style to share the meal we’d made—along with plenty more drinks. Every dish was delicious, and it ended up being the best meal we had in the city, which says a lot given Barcelona’s incredible food scene.

We can’t recommend this experience enough, and with over a THOUSAND glowing five-star reviews here, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among travelers. If you want a night of great food, laughter, and local flavor, this class is an absolute must in Barcelona!

This cooking class often sells out—reserve your spot in advance here!

Madrid

Whenever I think of Spain, I think of paella, so this cooking class with bottomless drinks sounded like a dream. Honestly, the paella we made was every bit as good as what you’d find in a restaurant!

The experience was hands-on but also incredibly social. We started with a welcome drink, then tasted five different Spanish varietals—a sparkling, two whites, and two reds—with as much as we liked of each. Our instructor, Eric, was a fantastic teacher, pacing the class so everyone could follow along. Paella can be tricky to master, but he made it feel simple and fun.

With dance music playing and glasses being topped up, the atmosphere was lively and energetic. We learned each step of making paella while laughing, chatting, and enjoying every tasty pour.

When the cooking was done, we all sat down to feast on our creations, joined by other Spanish favorites like gazpacho, cheese and charcuterie, and churros with chocolate sauce for dessert —a sweet and satisfying finale to an unforgettable evening!

It ended up being the best meal we had in Madrid and one of the most fun nights of our trip. If you want great food, endless drinks, and a night you won’t forget, don’t miss this class!

Book this tour here and get FREE cancellation before you go!

Valencia

Paella might be Valencia’s most famous dish, but making it ourselves was an experience we’ll never forget! This small-group class went beyond eating, teaching us the techniques, flavors, and history behind authentic paella with the help of an expert chef.

We began at Ruzafa Market, browsing colorful stalls of fresh produce and spices while our guide shared stories about Valencia’s food culture. We learned why bomba rice is essential, got the inside scoop on real saffron, and chatted with friendly vendors.

After a short walk to the kitchen, we were welcomed with tapas and drinks, plus a quick lesson on mixing the perfect sangria. Then came the main event—paella! Our chef walked us through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving the coveted socarrat, that crispy, caramelized layer at the bottom of the pan.

Cooking together was lively and fun, and by the time we sat down to enjoy our creation, it felt more like a dinner with friends than a class. We laughed, shared stories, and celebrated with a toast to our new skills. It was the perfect blend of culture, hands-on learning, and amazing flavors—easily our favorite way to experience Valencia’s food scene!

Read the rave reviews and book this paella cooking class here!

7. Explore the famous Mosque-Cathedral, Alcazar, and the Jewish Quarter in Cordoba

Córdoba’s streets are a living museum, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the layers of history woven through every corner. We wanted to go beyond simply admiring the architecture and truly understand how Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences shaped the city’s soul. That’s why we signed up for this guided tour of Córdoba’s most important monuments, and it turned out to be our favorite way to experience the city.

We started at the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the former palace of Isabella and Ferdinand. Walking through its grand halls and tranquil gardens, we listened as our guide, Jose, brought the past to life. Plus, the headphone system was super helpful, ensuring we didn’t miss a word, even in the bustling crowds. 

From there, we wandered the Jewish Quarter, stopping at the medieval synagogue and paying tribute to Maimonides under his bronze statue. But our absolute favorite part was the Mezquita—the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba. 

Standing in its vast forest of columns, we could feel the weight of centuries pressing down, blending Islamic artistry with Catholic tradition. Jose explained how this magnificent space once rivaled the world’s greatest mosques and how its story still echoes through today.

We were absolutely captivated by how this tour wove together the city’s complex heritage in such a clear, engaging way. And it’s clear we aren’t the only ones who felt this way—read the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this is a can’t-miss experience in Córdoba!

Secure our FAVORITE Córdoba tour here and explore history!

8. Go beach hopping in Ibiza

If you’re looking for an easy, all-inclusive way to explore Ibiza’s famous west coast beaches, this Cala Comte and Cala Bassa beach-hopping cruise is a must!

You can choose between a daytime or sunset departure, depending on your vibe, but either way, expect great music, gorgeous views, and seriously good energy. The boat itself is a three-level catamaran, and we loved hanging out on the top deck where people were dancing, sipping drinks, and soaking up the sun.

The cruise stops at two of Ibiza’s most iconic beaches, including Cala Comte and Cala Bassa, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just float around in the dreamy turquoise water. Lunch and drinks are included, and the crew keeps the vibes high with friendly service and a great playlist.

What really stood out to me was how spacious the boat felt! They only book at 50% capacity, so it never felt crowded or overwhelming. And if you’re not a swimmer, no worries—there’s a glass-bottom viewing area where you can spot fish and marine life without ever getting wet!

All in all, it’s the perfect way to experience Ibiza’s coastal magic without the stress of planning a thing. Just show up and enjoy a fun day in the sun! 

Read the thousands of five-star reviews and book this cruise here!

Related Read: For more fun ideas on how to spend your time in Ibiza, check out our 10 favorite things to do!

9. See a Flamenco Show

Flamenco isn’t just a performance—it’s pure Spanish passion brought to life through music, movement, and emotion. Born in Andalusia and shaped by Romani, Moorish, and Sephardic influences, this art form is best experienced up close, where you can feel every tap of the dancers’ shoes and hear every soulful note. 

From intimate Madrid venues to legendary tablaos in Seville and cave restaurants in Granada’s Albaycín district, each of these shows offers its own unique atmosphere, but all share the same ability to leave you breathless. Whether paired with a gourmet dinner or enjoyed as a quick, powerful performance, these flamenco experiences are unforgettable highlights of any trip to Spain.

Seville

Watching flamenco is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, and this show at Tablao Flamenco El Arenal is truly unforgettable. Known for its world-class dancers, the performance was mesmerizing from start to finish, ending in a powerful finale that had the whole audience on their feet.

We chose the dinner package and couldn’t have been happier. After the show, we enjoyed a gourmet meal worthy of a fine dining restaurant. I had duck confit with violet potatoes, while Dan opted for cod fritters with roasted garlic cream. Both were incredible! The attentive service and generous pours throughout the evening made it even more special.

The combination of an electrifying flamenco performance and a refined dinner made this one of the highlights of our trip to Seville. It’s an experience that captures both the passion of the city’s art and the richness of its cuisine. Whether it’s your first flamenco show or you’ve seen many, this evening will stay with you long after you’ve left!

Book your flamenco tickets here for an unforgettable night in Seville!

Madrid

We couldn’t miss the chance to see flamenco while in Madrid, so we booked this top-rated show, and it didn’t disappoint!

The cozy space had only three rows of seats, making it feel personal and immersive. We were welcomed with a drink before settling in for the performance. The dancers and musicians were incredibly talented, but it was the raw emotion and passion behind every movement that truly made the show unforgettable. 

Watching live was like hearing a favorite song performed in person—nothing compares to the energy! Plus, at just about an hour long, it fit easily into our Madrid itinerary, leaving time for a relaxed dinner afterward. 

This is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the city. It’s an engaging, memorable way to connect with Spanish culture and to understand why flamenco is so deeply cherished here. We left feeling inspired and in awe of the artistry we had just witnessed, and we aren’t the only ones—check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why travelers say this is the best show in Madrid!

Reserve now to experience the energy of Madrid’s best flamenco show!

Granada

Dinner and a show take on a whole new meaning at El Templo del Flamenco, a cave restaurant hidden in Granada’s Albaycín district. This traditional experience was about more than just the performance—it was the unique setting, the atmosphere, and the food all coming together.

With curved stone walls, warm lighting, and an intimate layout, the space felt alive before the show even began, almost like stepping into a secret underground club.

When the performance started, we were captivated. The dancers didn’t just move to the beat—they were the beat. From the deep, soulful seguiriyas to the rapid-fire bulerías, every moment was charged with passion and precision.

We opted for the five-course tapas menu, perfect for sharing, featuring Andalusian flavors like jamón ibérico and fresh seafood (other menu options are also available). The timing was perfect—dishes seemed to arrive right as the music hit its peak. 

Finding El Templo del Flamenco can be a little tricky with its tucked-away location and winding streets, so plan to arrive early. But once you step inside, it’s pure magic. If you’re visiting Granada, you can’t miss this flamenco show!

See ticket options and book this Granada flamenco show here!

Related Read: If you’re planning to visit Granada (and you should!), have a look at our detailed 2-day itinerary to help plan your trip!

10. Spot whales and dolphins in Tenerife

This whale and dolphin watching cruise in Tenerife is hands down our top pick of things to do in the Canary Islands! We had the best time spotting dolphins and whales with the passionate crew, and cruising along on a catamaran certainly made us feel like VIPs. This is the ultimate way to make the most of your Canarian vacation!

We set off in style, lounging on the wide sundecks and enjoying some of the complimentary drinks on board. It wasn’t long before we spotted a group of pilot whales gliding calmly near our boat, which was so exciting. The crew turned the engines off to avoid disturbing them, and a few of them actually swam up even closer to the boat! 

A little later on, we saw a pod of playful dolphins, and we were even able to don our snorkeling gear and get in the water alongside them. It was epic, and the guides were on hand to make sure that we stayed safe.  

Back on the boat, we enjoyed a tasty buffet lunch and some yummy tapas-style snacks as we cruised along the coastline back to Puerto Colon. With the mountains on one side and the sparkling ocean on the other, it was certainly a memorable note to end on.

We only have good things to say about this tour, as do over 2,500 happy reviewers! If you only book one tour in the Canary Islands, it should be this one!

Don’t miss out—book our FAVORITE Canary Islands tour here!

11. Take a private tour of the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum

A trip to Bilbao wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its famous Guggenheim Museum, and this private tour of it delivered in every possible way. It offers an in-depth exploration of one of the world’s most iconic museums, tailored to your interests.

We met our guide out front, and before we even set foot inside, she was telling us about the fascinating history and construction of the building. Designed by the architect Frank Gehry, it has become a symbol of Bilbao and is a masterpiece in its own right.

Once inside, we walked through the museum’s diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. Some of my favorites were Joseph Beuys’ “Lightning with Stag in its Glare” and Jeff Koons’ “Puppy” sculpture. I have to admit, without a guide, I don’t think I would have had nearly as much appreciation for each exhibit we stopped at. There is so much to know about each artist to get the full effect.

One of the tour’s best features is that it’s completely customizable, meaning you only go to exhibits that you’re interested in. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual enthusiast, this ensures a meaningful and engaging experience. Don’t just take our word for it—check out all the positive reviews here!

Reserve this tour here to access FREE cancellation before you go!

12. Sail along the Mallorca coast on a luxury catamaran

There’s something about being out on the water that just makes everything feel right. The moment we stepped onto the catamaran, welcomed by the friendly crew and a cold drink, we knew we had made the right choice. With just a small group on board, this sailing trip along the Mallorca coast felt more like a private getaway than a typical boat tour. 

Andres and Isaac, our skipper and host, were absolute legends! They knew exactly how to keep things relaxed while making sure we had the best time. 

When we reached a secluded bay, the water was impossibly blue, and at 25°C (77°F), it was the perfect temperature. We dove in, snorkeled, and even tried stand-up paddleboarding—though staying upright was another story! For those who just wanted to lounge, there was plenty of space in the shade or sun to kick back with a drink in hand.

Then came the tapas! Freshly made on board, they were exactly what we needed after all that swimming. Sitting there with a plate of Spanish flavors, feeling the gentle sway of the boat, we couldn’t help but think—this is exactly how Mallorca should be experienced!

We’re definitely doing this trip again the next time we’re in Mallorca. If you want a laid-back, unforgettable way to see the island, this is it!

Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

13. Spend a day seeing Toledo’s historic sights

Toledo is a gorgeous ancient city, and we explored it thoroughly on this full-day tour from Madrid!

Known as “the city of three cultures,” it once thrived as a place where Muslims, Christians, and Jews lived in harmony until the Spanish Inquisition. It was fascinating to see how this unique blend of cultures has shaped Toledo’s architecture, character, and traditions, and having everything organized, from the comfortable coach to the guided itinerary, made the experience even better.

Our guide, Oscar, really brought the city to life, offering insight and context that made every stop more meaningful. From explaining the history behind Toledo’s landmarks to pointing out small details we would have missed, he made visiting this richly historic city an unforgettable experience.

We loved visiting the Plaza de Zocodover, which has been the beating heart of Toledo for centuries, so it’s safe to say this square has some stories! Exploring the Cathedral was beautiful, especially the ornate, golden interior. We also loved learning about Jewish history as we visited the synagogue, which dates all the way back to the 12th century!

We’re so glad that we booked this tour, as this was one of the best days that we had in Madrid. If you want to really soak up Spanish history and culture, then visiting this medieval city is a must. Toledo is picture-perfect, and we really felt as though we were stepping back in time. So if you’re looking for a slice of old-school Spain, be sure to take this tour! 

Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!

14. Visit the Montserrat Monastery and go wine tasting

The best day trip from Barcelona has to be this full-day tour to the famous Santa Maria de Montserrat, a natural and cultural wonder perched high on the dramatic Montserrat mountain, followed by an afternoon tasting experience in a castle. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and indulgence—all in one unforgettable day!

The journey up the mountain on the cogwheel train was a highlight in itself, with sweeping views over the jagged peaks and valleys below. Once at the top, our guide, Laura, led us through the historic monastery, which dates back to 1025. Her insights brought the site’s history and legends to life, and we also had time to wander on our own, soaking in the scenery and sampling foods made by the resident monks.

The day only got better in the afternoon with a visit to Oller del Mas Winery, an award-winning estate set in a 10th-century castle that’s been in the same family for 36 generations. The setting was breathtaking, with rolling vineyards and centuries-old stone walls. 

We enjoyed a delicious tapas lunch (with the option to upgrade to a full meal) before heading into the cellars for a guided tour. Tasting regional flavors in such a historic and atmospheric location was a real treat, and the variety we sampled was excellent.

Combining stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and world-class flavors, this tour offers a perfect escape from the city. It’s an unforgettable Barcelona experience!

Book this tour with over 4,500 five-star reviews here, before it sells out!

15. Spend a day exploring Girona and Costa Brava

If you want to see a different side of Catalonia, this full-day tour from Barcelona is an absolute winner. It blends history, culture, and jaw-dropping coastal scenery into one easy day trip, taking you to some of the region’s most charming and often-overlooked gems.

After a comfy hotel pickup, you’ll head to Girona, a city with roots dating back to the Romans in 77 B.C. Here’s where the magic starts! Your walking tour winds through the colorful Old Town, along the Onyar River, and into El Call, one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish quarters. 

On our trip, we lucked out with Fernando as our guide, and he made Girona’s history come alive with stories, fun facts, and a few hidden corners we never would have found on our own. You’ll also stroll the ancient city walls for panoramic views, see the grand Gothic cathedral (yep, the one from Game of Thrones!), and check out landmarks like the Arab Baths and Archaeology Museum.

From there, it’s on to the medieval village of Pals—think cobblestone streets, stone archways, and serious storybook vibes—before ending the day in Calella de Palafrugell, a picture-perfect fishing village on the Costa Brava. Whether you spend your free time swimming, wandering, or sipping something cold at a seaside café, it’s the perfect finale.

With no more than eight travelers, this tour feels personal, relaxed, and full of moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left Barcelona!

Book this full-day tour here for a day of coastal beauty you won’t forget!

16. Catch the sunset and stargaze in Teide National Park

We were completely blown away by this stargazing tour in Tenerife’s Teide National Park! If you’re spending time in Tenerife during your trip to the Canary Islands, this tour is a must. It’s the best way to spend a night on this beautiful island!

Before the stargazing began, our tour guide took us to a charming Canarian restaurant nestled in the hillside. We had amazing golden hour views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape, and we certainly never would have found this super local spot on our own!

After dinner, we drove through dramatic lava fields and pine forests to reach a lookout point high above the clouds. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky exploded in color, we toasted as we waited to begin stargazing. 

And boy was it worth the wait! We got to observe the night sky through powerful telescopes, while our guides used lasers to point out different constellations to us. I was even lucky enough to get a crystal-clear view of Saturn’s rings on the night that we went, and I could see the craters of the moon through the telescope. It was surreal!

This tour is a truly magical experience, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. No wonder it has THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews!

It runs every day except Monday and Saturday, and times do change along with daylight hours. It’s also very popular, so don’t wait too long to book!

Grab your spot on this top-rated stargazing tour here!

17. Visit the world’s most dangerous trail, the Caminito del Rey

Did you know you can hike the world-famous Caminito del Rey from Malaga? Once dubbed “the most dangerous path in the world,” this stunning trail has been fully restored into a safe yet thrilling experience, and we joined this guided tour to make it completely seamless. 

The day began with a scenic bus ride through the Andalusian countryside, and then, when we arrived at Caminito del Rey, we were greeted by towering cliffs and the stunning Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge.

The pathway is suspended 328 feet (100 meters) above the ground, and walking along it is exhilarating without being too scary. The highlight, though, was crossing the suspension bridge at the end and enjoying those epic panoramic views. At the end of the tour, we got to stop in the charming village of Ardales, where we had free time to grab coffee and admire all of the traditional white buildings.

One of the best things about this experience is its exclusivity. Daily visitor numbers to the Caminito del Rey are capped, so the path doesn’t get too crowded, which means you can thoroughly soak in the beauty of it. 

However, the trail is also very famous, so thanks to the law of supply and demand, this tour sells out incredibly fast!

Don’t miss out—book this famous trek in advance here!

18. Go wine tasting in La Rioja

If you want to truly understand Rioja’s wine culture—not just drink it—this small-group tour is the perfect choice. With a maximum of eight guests, it’s intimate, relaxed, and designed to help you connect with the history, traditions, and flavors that make this region special.

Our guide, Rebeca, made the day feel personal from the very start, checking in beforehand about dietary needs and even adjusting the itinerary so we wouldn’t repeat a winery we had planned to visit on our own. She picked us up right from our hotel, and soon we were winding through the stunning landscapes of Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa.

We visited three different wineries, each offering a unique look into the winemaking process—from tasting varieties aged in different barrels to sampling directly from the tank before aging. At one stop, we walked through centuries-old vineyards, learning how the vines are pruned and cared for. A blind tasting at the end put our newfound knowledge to the test (and made for plenty of laughs).

Lunch was a delicious spread of traditional Riojan dishes, perfectly paired with local wines, enjoyed in a charming village after a quick tour of its medieval streets and underground tunnels. By the end of the day, we left with a deeper appreciation for Rioja’s wine heritage and memories far richer than any bottle could hold.

Book this small-group tasting here and experience Rioja like a local!

Where to Stay in Spain

As you plan your travels through Spain, it’s important to find the right place to stay. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or are traveling on a shoestring budget, each city has different areas and offerings for travelers. To make your travel planning easier, we have created city guides for the best neighborhoods and our favorite hotels in all of Spain’s major cities.

• Where to Stay in Barcelona Guide – We loved Hotel Travessera in Gràcia!

• Where to Stay in Madrid Guide – Check out Akeah Hotel Gran Vía in Malasaña.

• Where to Stay in Seville Guide – Book your stay at Casa de la Moneda Residences Sevilla in Santa Cruz.

• Where to Stay in Bilbao Guide –  Vincci Consulado de Bilbao is a great option in Abando!

Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car in Spain is the perfect way to explore beyond the cities—think small villages, coastal towns, and hidden gems impossible to reach by public transit! The roads are well-maintained, and driving here is generally pretty relaxed, making it ideal for a road trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Spain

• Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side in Spain. And make sure you stick to the speed limit, speed cameras are common here!
• Pick the right car: Some of Spain’s smaller towns and villages have narrow streets and tight parking, so I recommend going for a compact car. Also, most rentals here are manual, so if you need an automatic (like me!), be sure to filter for it on Discover Cars when booking.
• Insurance is a must: I always add full coverage insurance, whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
• Toll roads: Spain has both toll and toll-free roads. Toll roads are usually marked with “AP” and can be paid using cash, credit card, or electronic devices like VIA-T. Plan your route accordingly and have a payment method ready.
• Parking tips: In urban areas, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking zones and be aware of local regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have restricted parking zones or require a resident permit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Spain

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Spain on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

There are so many incredible things to do in Spain that we could have surpassed 100 for this list, but these top 18 activities will be enough to fill your time! From incredible architecture and history, to scenic views, and tasty tapas, you’ll want to come back to Spain time and time again – at least that’s what happened to us!

If you need help planning more of your travels, check out all of our Spain blogs! We have city itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do to inspire your next trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

How to Spend 3 Days in Barcelona: The Best Barcelona Itinerary

10 Best Things to do in Madrid, Spain

How to Spend THREE DAYS in San Sebastian, Spain: The Best 3-Day Itinerary