20 Best Places To Visit In Spain
For First-Timers

If you haven’t been to Spain yet, you’re missing out! The second-most visited country in the world, Spain has something for everyone. But where do you even start deciding where to begin exploring this magnificent country?

Having visited Spain 30 times and explored every city on this list, I’ve got you covered with what every city has to offer for a first-timer to Spain.

My multiple annual trips to Spain keep me updated on the latest travel trends and hidden gems, ensuring you get the most authentic and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re looking to see iconic sights, taste the best food or experience one of Spain’s many unique festivals, I’ll guide you through my top 20 destinations with the best things to do in each place.

¡Vamos!

1. Valencia

My number 1 best place for first-timers to visit in Spain is Valencia. Valencia has everything; incredible food (the home of paella!), beautiful architecture, gorgeous beaches and the perfect climate.

Perfectly happy not to compete with Madrid or Barcelona, Valencia offers a perfect and more relaxed introduction to Spain. Everyone who has been to Valencia will rave about just how perfect it is!

The famous Fallas festival takes place from 15th to 19th March which would be a perfect introduction to Spanish culture. However, the city is very busy and you will pay higher accommodation prices.

Top Things To Do In Valencia

The City of Arts & Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts i Ciències in Valencian) is a magnificent feat of modern architecture. Built in the late 1990s, the complex has become one of the best-known symbols of Valencia and a must-visit attraction in the city.

It is one of the 12 Treasures of Spain and contains an IMAX cinema, a planetarium, a science museum, an outdoor art and plant gallery, an open-air oceanographic park (the largest in Europe!) and an opera house.

You can easily go back on multiple days and still find things to do! Don’t miss out on having your photo snapped at the Valencia sign either!

Where To Stay In Valencia

The best area to stay in Valencia for first-timers is the Old Town, known as Ciutat Vella. It is filled with charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and iconic landmarks.

Here you can visit the stunning Valencia Cathedral and the lively Central Market. It offers easy access to major attractions, delicious dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the city.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Valencia:
Soho Hotel: The perfect boutique aparthotel located in the centre of Valencia with living space and kitchen in every apartment.

2. Barcelona

Barcelona is bold, bright and full of life. Any trip to Spain would not be complete without taking in this fantastic Catalan city. Barcelona is a great pick for first-timers. There is so much to see and do, including some of Spain’s most iconic sites. You will never be bored in Barcelona!

Top Thing To Do In Barcelona

You have to visit Gaudi’s architectural masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia. It is still under construction with an estimated completion date of 2026 or 2028. This is more than 140 years after construction started. Budget a good few hours to visit and head up the tower for great views of the city.

Head to the cathedral on a sunny day and the stained glass illuminates the central nave. You can book guided tours but I found the standard ticket to be fantastic. The tour is informative and gives you the right amount of information.

Where To Stay In Barcelona

My two top picks for first-timers visiting Barcelona would be the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) or the Eixample district.

The Gothic Quarter is the heart of the old part of Barcelona. Here, you can explore all the small, windy streets and not have to walk far to rest up after a long day taking in Barcelona’s many sites.

Eixample is the district with many of Gaudi’s buildings. It is well-connected, has many restaurants and shops and is a buzz of activity. Passeig de Gràcia is the main street in the Eixample district and leads straight to Plaça de Catalunya.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Barcelona:
Catalonia Ramblas – A modern hotel with a spa, sauna and hot tub. The hotel also has an outdoor rooftop swimming pool.

3. Madrid

Located in the geographical centre of the country, Madrid is the beating heart of Spain and a perfect choice for a weekend adventure.

First-timers to Madrid will experience a fast-moving city, full of life, culture and amazing food (the churros!). Madrid acts as a fantastic gateway to Spain for first-timers and will undoubtedly leave you with a taste for more!

Top Thing To Do In Madrid

For fans of art, you will feel right at home in Madrid with its many art museums. They contain some of Spain’s best pieces of art as well as work from further afield.

Spend a day or two at the Prado and Reina Sofía National Art Museums to see some of Goya’s and Velázquez’s best pieces.

Do not miss the impressive Guernica painting by Picasso in the Reina Sofía. This huge painting, commissioned during the Spanish Civil War, depicts the horrors of war and is visually and emotionally arresting.

Where To Stay In Madrid

My top two picks for a Madrid stay are the districts of Malasaña and Chueca.

Malasaña is home to fantastic eateries and shopping as well as more traditional markets and bars. The district was home to ‘La Movida Madrileña’, a counter-culture movement in the 1980s that produced some of Spain’s most famous directors, artists and singers.

Chueca is a lively LGBTQ+ hub, full of bars and cafés. If you are LGBTQIA+, you will find no better place in Madrid (or even Spain!) than Chueca!

My Top Accommodation Pick For Madrid:
Room Mate Oscar – Located in the heart of Chueca close to bars and restaurants, this chic hotel has a rooftop terrace and swimming pool.

4. Granada

Located in Andalusia in the southern part of Spain, Granada offers a fascinating insight into Spain’s past. Granada is perfect for first-timers due to its smaller size, sites of cultural significance and some amazing gastronomy.

When I was a Spanish teacher, Granada was our city of choice to take students to as it is a perfect and beautiful introduction to Spain.

Top Thing To Do In Granada

This is an obvious one but you cannot go to Granada and not visit the Alhambra. Construction started in 1238 and is one of the most iconic sites of Andalusia. You will need a day to fully experience the palace and its gardens and allow yourself to be transported back to the times of Moorish Spain.

Keep an eye out for the various fountains which were a symbol of wealth in the past and the iconic Court of the Lions.

Make sure you book your tickets to the Nasrid Palace early as these quickly fill up. There are plenty of unofficial websites so take care and do your research before deciding where to purchase from.

Where To Stay In Granada

Granada is a much smaller city than Madrid, Barcelona and even Valencia. It is a very walkable city and you will find many great options.

For a truly magical stay, I recommend staying in one of the hotels in the Albaicín, one of the oldest districts in the city and with great views of the Alhambra Palace. Make sure to request a room with a view!

My Top Accommodation Pick For Granada:
Shine Albayzín – With views of the Alhambra Palace, this chic hotel is in the perfect spot to explore Granada in style.

5. San Sebastian

If you are a foodie, San Sebastian is a fantastic choice if visiting Spain for the first time. The city is famous for its food and you will not have a bad meal here. The pintxos are to die for.

Make an evening of going from bar to bar trying the different varieties. That’s not to say that food is all San Sebastian has to offer! There is a beautiful old town, a theme park on a hill and La Concha, the beautiful beach that quickly fills up in summer!

Pro Tip – You will see the city referred to as both San Sebastian and Donostia. San Sebastian is the Spanish name whilst Donostia is the Basque name.

Top Thing To Do In San Sebastian

San Sebastian has a fantastic culinary scene and the old town is beautiful, making these two perfect activities to do in the city. However, my top thing to do in San Sebastian is to head down to the La Concha promenade just before sunset. You will see the most beautiful sunset, as the sun disappears over the horizon for another day.

Where To Stay In San Sebastian

For first-timers in San Sebastian, you can’t go wrong with staying in the Old Town. You will be immersed in the heart of the city and have access to many top-class bars and restaurants. La Concha beach is just a short walk away and you will be within short walking distance of many of the city’s top sights.

My Top Accommodation Pick For San Sebastian:
Zenit Convento San Martin – Only 100 metres from La Concha beach, this modern hotel is the perfect place to based yourself.

6. Seville

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and the fourth-biggest city in Spain. Seville has a rich heritage, fantastic food and is home to some of Spain’s most recognisable (and sometimes controversial!) traditions.

First-timers in Seville will fall in love with its pace of life, beautiful architecture and its undeniable identity of feeling like ‘authentic’ Spain.

Top Thing To Do In Seville

Andalusia is the home of flamenco so there is no better place to experience this incredible art form than in Seville. Flamenco dates back to the 18th century and the very first flamenco café opened in the city in 1881.

Spend an afternoon or evening fully immersing yourself in the music, singing and dancing that make up flamenco.

My personal recommendation is the Casa de la Memoría. They put on one to two shows every evening (except Sundays). Their shows are intimate, authentic and reasonably priced. Make sure you book in advance because they fill up.

Where To Stay In Seville

The best place to stay in Seville for first-timers is in the centre of the city, known as Centro. Here you will be close to all the major attractions. Seville is a walkable city and by staying in the centre, you will have easy access to lots of the major attractions as well as bars and restaurants.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Seville:
H10 Casa de la Plata – A newly-built 4 star hotel in the historic centre of Seville. The decor fuses a modern style with more traditional Sevillano elements.

7. Bilbao

Bilbao surprised me so much on the first visit that I returned within a month to spend more time there! It is one of my favourite places in Spain due to its fantastic mix of old and new, its amazing culinary scene and its incredible art. Whilst smaller than Madrid and Barcelona, Bilbao more than holds its own against Spain’s bigger cities!

Top Thing To Do In Bilbao

You cannot visit Bilbao and not visit its impressive Guggenheim Museum. Opened in 1997, the museum sparked the regeneration of Bilbao’s former port area putting the city on the map. Not only is the building incredible, but the exhibits inside and outside the museum are engaging, innovative and very enjoyable.

Do not miss the chance to have your photo taken with Puppy. This giant floral dog greets you outside the museum and has become a recognisable symbol of the city across Spain and the world.

Where To Stay In Bilbao

Bilbao is another city that is very walkable and you can stay in many areas and have easy access to the city’s sights. I recommend staying in the Abando district (I stay here every time I go to Bilbao).

Abando is close to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum and within walking distance of the Casco Viejo. Abando has lots of bars and restaurants and plenty of parks to relax in. You can’t go wrong with choosing here for a first stay.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Bilbao:
Miró Hotel: This chic boutique hotel is in the perfect location and has great views of the Guggenheim Museum. Ask for a river view!

8. Cordoba

For those first-timers to Spain who want a more relaxed but charming experience, look no further than Cordoba. With its beautiful old-town, jaw-dropping Mezquita and laid-back atmosphere, Cordoba is the perfect introduction to Spain.

Cordoba is relatively close to both Seville and Granada and can be explored as part of a week-long Andalusian tour making it a fantastic choice for your first expedition to Spain.

Top Thing To Do In Cordoba

Cordoba’s Mezquita-Catedral (mosque-cathedral in English) sits at the heart of the city’s old town and dates back to the 700s. The building was constructed as a mosque when this part of Spain was known as Al-Andalus and under Moorish control.

However, in 1236 following the Reconquest of Spain by Christian forces, the building was converted into a cathedral with a Renaissance-style nave built in the centre of the mosque in the 16th century.

This fascinating dual history makes the Mezquita-Catedral one of the most fascinating and beautiful buildings in all of all Spain and is a perfect example of the competing Arab/Spanish influences on Andalusia.

Where To Stay In Cordoba

For the true Andalusian and picture postcard experience, stay in the Jewish Quarter (Judería). You will be staying in an area, steeped in history offering great architecture and photo opportunities. The narrow winding streets will transport you back in time.

You will be within walking distance of lots of great places to eat and drink and the Mezquita-Catedral. The Jewish Quarter is beautiful and is still a residential area, so plenty of opportunities to experience authentic Spain.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Cordoba:
Posada de Vallina: Located in the old town, this traditional hotel will be like your home away from home and is perfect for exploring Cordoba’s sights.

9. Malaga

Malaga is many people’s point of entry into the Costa Del Sol. Whilst many tourists pass through this Mediterranean city, Malaga is not to be missed. It boasts an array of historical sites, art museums (Malaga was the birthplace of Picasso) and beautiful parks.

It has fantastic weather year-round making it a great choice for a break in the low season. And with it being in relative proximity to Seville, Granada, Cordoba and Cadiz, Malaga is the perfect start and end point for a tour of Andalusia.

Top Thing To Do In Malaga

Malaga’s Alcazaba is one of the best-preserved in the whole of Spain. Built between the 10th and 15th centuries, this breathtaking citadel looks out over the city giving spectacular views and an interesting look into the past.

Similar to the Alcazar in Seville and the Alhambra in Granada, the Alcazaba is a fascinating look back into the time when the Moors ruled large parts of Spain. Entry costs are pretty cheap with a guided tour costing only 10€.

Where To Stay In Malaga

Staying in the centre (El Centro) of Malaga is the perfect choice for first-timers. The centre is well-connected to by public transport making it easier to explore different areas of Malaga and its surrounding attractions. It is also well-connected to the airport.

Malaga’s city centre is rich in history, culture, and architecture. By staying in the heart of the city, you’ll have easy access to important landmarks such as the Alcazaba fortress, the Roman Theatre, and the Cathedral.

Additionally, the centre is often bustling with street performers, local markets, and traditional Spanish restaurants, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

With so many culinary options, you have easy access to a range of restaurants perfect to try Andalusian dishes such as pescaíto frito (fried fish) and espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers) and the convenience of being well-connected to everything you need to see.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Malaga:
Atarazanas Malaga Boutique Hotel: Centrally located, this modern hotel will provide the perfect place to relax after a day sightseeing.

10. Mallorca

Mallorca is a fantastic choice and has a lot to offer to the first-time visitor (indeed it was the destination of my VERY FIRST trip to Spain back in 1989 when I was 6 months old).

The island has something for everyone. The capital, Palma, is a culturally-rich city with a stunning old town. There is also fantastic cuisine and vibrant nightlife.

Across the island, there are breathtaking beaches with clear waters and scenic villages. If you are an explorer, hire a car and travel around the island at your own pace seeing all that the beautiful Balearic island of Mallorca has to offer.

Top Thing To Do In Mallorca

Mallorca is a fantastic island with so much to offer. Palma, its capital is a captivating city and the island is blessed with so many beautiful beaches, it can be hard to choose the best thing to do. My top thing to do in Mallorca however, is to visit the Cuevas del Drach in the east of the island.

Close to Porto Cristo, these natural caves are great to explore and showcase some of Mallorca’s natural beauty. Formed over many years of rain seeping through the walls, the caves are full of chambers with incredible stalactites and stalagmites, providing great photo opportunities and time to appreciate the beauty of nature. Entry includes a ten-minute classical concert at the end of the visit.

Where To Stay In Mallorca

With Mallorca having so much variety, where to stay really depends on what you are visiting the island for. If you are looking to be in a busy area, Palma de Mallorca is a fantastic choice.

With its gothic cathedral, old town, bars, restaurants and museums, you will be right in the heart of all that Mallorca has to offer. However, if you want to stay in a resort consider Sóller, Cala d’Or or Pollensa.

A special mention goes to my first-ever visit to Spain and to Cala Bona on the east coast of the island. This charming resort has a laid-back vibe, is perfect for families and there are plenty of things to do.

The resort connects with the livelier Cala Millor and the walk along the promenade in the evening will leave even the most stressed person feeling completely relaxed.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Mallorca:
Hotel Melia Palma Marina: This luxurious hotel is located right on the seafront in Palma, offering stunning views of the bay and cathedral.

11. Santander

Located on Spain’s northern Cantabrian coast, Santander has a rich cultural heritage with lots of fantastic places to eat and explore. Santander is close to nearby hills and nature reserves, making it a great place for outdoor activities.

The city also offers some fantastic beaches meaning you can combine city life with an easy beach holiday. Santander also works perfectly in tandem with Bilbao and San Sebastian and can be visited comfortably as part of a week-long trip to the northern coast.

Top Thing To Do In Santander

Palacio de la Magdalena is one of Santander’s must-see attractions. The palace is built on a peninsula overlooking the bay and is an impressive building given to the Spanish Royal Family as a summer residence.

The palace is a blend of various different architectural styles and you can enjoy the peaceful gardens which contain plants, flowers, statues and even a small zoo.

Where To Stay In Santander

As with many places on this list, where to stay is based on your preferences for a trip to Santander.

If you are looking for a city-break vibe, you will find everything you need in the city centre area. Here, you will find plenty of places to eat, drink and shop and everything is within walking distance.

As Santander is on the coast, there is also the option to stay closer to the beach. For this, I recommend the Sardinero neighbourhood.

This area is close to the beaches, the promenade and the Palacio de la Magdalena, offering a more relaxed beach vibe. The city centre is a short bus ride away so if your focus is primarily on relaxation, look no further than the Sardinero district.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Santander:
Hotel Santemar: In a great location from some of Santander’s main attractions, the Hotel Santemar offers lovely sea views and is only 150m from the beach.

12. Gijon

For those wanting a more relaxed introduction to Spain, look no further than the Asturian city of Gijon. Located on the northern coast of Spain, this city offers great culture, fantastic cuisine, water sports and a beach. Close to beautiful countryside and the Asturian capital of Oviedo, Gijon has something for everyone.

Top Thing To Do In Gijon

Explore the bohemian district of Cimavilla. The historic quarter of Gijon is located on a peninsula between the San Lorenzo and Poniente beaches.

Originally a fishing village, the area has stood the test of time maintaining its traditional architecture and is considered one of the most picturesque parts of the city.

Spend an afternoon getting lost down its narrow streets, visiting various artisan shops and enjoying traditional Asturian dishes in its traditional and cosy restaurants.

If you’re in the mood for a more lively time, head there at the weekend where the various bars and restaurants come alive and the area becomes one of Gijon’s most popular to spend an evening.

Don’t miss the Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower) and the Church of San Pedro. There are also some Roman ruins to see and at the top of the peninsula, there is a park that offers fantastic views over the city and out into the Cantrabrian sea.

Where To Stay In Gijon

There are a couple of options when deciding where to stay in Gijon. For a truly immersive experience, I recommend you stay in the Cimavilla. You will be at the heart of the city and experience an authentic gijones way of life.

Another good option is to stay in Centro (or the city centre in English). Here you will find plenty of hotels, shops and restaurants and with Gijon not being a huge city, you will be able to walk to all the various attractions within 10 minutes.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Gijon:
NH Gijon: Located at the promenade near Playa de San Lorenzo, this 4 star hotel is close to nearby attractions and offers a comfortable stay and a pool.

13. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela, located in the enchanting region of Galicia, Spain, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. Its medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates visitors with its labyrinthine streets, adorned with stunning architecture and charming squares.

At the heart of the city stands the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

With its history, spiritual and cultural importance, and central location in the centre of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela offers an unforgettable experience.

Top Thing To Do In Santiago de Compostela

The top thing to do in Santiago de Compostela is to visit the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. This stunning cathedral believed to house the remains of Saint James, is the culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and a symbol of religious and cultural significance.

Sit outside and marvel at its stunning architecture in the Praza do Obradoiro and watch the pilgrims entering the square at the end of their journey.

Then explore its awe-inspiring interior, witness the impressive Botafumeiro swinging ritual, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Where To Stay In Santiago de Compostela

For those on their first visit to Santiago de Compostela, staying in the historic old town is an absolute must. This allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s charm and easily explore its attractions. Alternatively, you can consider staying near the Plaza de Galicia, which offers a central location with convenient access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation options.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Santiago de Compostela:
Parador de Santiago de Compostela: One of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in Santiago de Compostela, this hotel is located in the old town, offering a great stay and the perfect location.

14. Vigo

Discover the coastal gem of Vigo, a lively city situated in the captivating region of Galicia, Spain. Known for its bustling port, scenic beaches, and charming old town, Vigo offers a delightful blend of maritime history, cultural treasures, and natural splendour.

Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront promenade, indulging in fresh seafood, or exploring the nearby Cies Islands, Vigo will satisfy that yearning for Spain.

Top Thing To Do In Vigo

One of the top things to do in Vigo is to visit the Cies Islands. These stunning islands, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, boast pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes. Take a boat trip to the islands and spend a day hiking, sunbathing, and enjoying the untouched beauty of nature.

Where To Stay In Vigo

One of the best areas to stay in Vigo is the city centre. This central location offers easy access to major attractions, shopping areas, and dining options. It’s a bustling area with a vibrant atmosphere, and there are several hotels available to suit different budgets and preferences.

Staying in the city centre allows you to explore the historic quarter of Casco Vello, enjoy the lively nightlife, and conveniently access public transportation to explore other parts of Vigo.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Vigo:
B&B Hotel Vigo: Conveniently located near the city’s train and bus stations, this hotel offers comfy beds and great bathrooms for great prices.

15. Leon

Leon is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. with stunning architecture across the city, including its famous Gothic cathedral and a fantastic walkable old town, Leon offers a great introduction to Spain.

With fewer tourists, Leon offers visitors a more authentic experience and its gastronomy is famous throughout the whole of Spain. What could be a better introduction to Spain than walking through old, winding streets and stopping off for a glass of wine and some tapas?!

Top Thing To Do In Leon

No visit to Leon would be complete without a visit to its breathtaking cathedral. Located in the heart of the old town, the cathedral’s construction dates back to the 13th century and took several centuries to complete.

The cathedral contains intricate detailing and ornate sculptures but the most jaw-dropping element is its stained glass windows, depicting biblical scenes.

The cathedral also houses the Royal Pantheon which is the burial site of numerous kings and queens from the Kingdom of Leon. Entry tickets cost 7 for an adult and can be bought on the door.

Where To Stay In Leon

Staying in the Barrio Húmedo will place you right in the middle of the action in Leon. The area is famous for its lively atmosphere and busy tapas bars, offering some of the best food in the whole of Spain.

You will be close to the Plaza Mayor, the historical centre of the city and have easy access to numerous sites, including the cathedral. There are numerous options for different budgets.

I highly recommend paying a visit to Bar El Rincon del Gaucho, located close to the Plaza Mayor. The bar is popular with locals and the staff are very friendly. With each drink, you can order a different tapa which accompanies your drink at no extra charge.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Leon:
NH Collection Plaza Mayor: Located right on the Plaza Mayor in the heart of Leon’s old town, this hotel has fantastic views and is ideally located to explore the city.

16. Cadiz

Cadiz sits on Spain’s southern coast and offers a great blend of history, beaches, culture and cuisine. Being significantly smaller and less frequently visited than many other cities, Cadiz has a more relaxed vibe making it a great option, especially for those who don’t like big crowds but still want an authentic Spanish experience.

Top Thing To Do In Cadiz

The top thing to do in Cadiz is to visit the beautiful Old Town known as Casco Antiguo in Spanish. Here you can leisurely explore the narrow streets and immerse yourself in the authentic feeling of the area. One of the best things to do in the Old Town is to visit the cathedral and climb the bell tower for stunning views over the city.

You can also visit the Tavira Tower which is the highest point in Cadiz. It also has a unique camera obscure which provides unique views over the city.

If you fancy getting out of the narrow streets of the Old Town and taking some time out, the Caleta beach is just a stone’s throw away.

Where To Stay In Cadiz

Similar to Santander, where to stay in Cadiz depends on what your main reason for visiting the city is. If you are looking to be immersed in city life, head to the Old Town.

For a more relaxed beach vibe, the neighbourhood near La Caleta Beach is a great option. La Caleta is within walking distance of the Old Town offering the perfect combination of city life and beach vibes.

Make sure you book your accommodation early; with the city being smaller than others on this list, the best options will fill up quickly.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Cadiz:
Tandem Puerto Chico: Centrally located, these spacious apartments offer the perfect base to explore Cadiz from.

17. Ibiza

Ibiza is famous across the world for its wild nightlife and clubs that never shut. But there is far more to this beautiful island than at first glance. The island also offers beautiful beaches, fantastic cuisine and a range of different activities (the island is famous for being popular with hippies so expect yoga and wellness retreats).

Located in the Mediterranean sea, both Barcelona and Valencia are easily accessible from Ibiza, providing the perfect opportunity for a two-in-one break.

Top Thing To Do In Ibiza

Given the diverse nature of what Ibiza has to offer, I have a few recommendations depending on your personal tastes.

If you are someone who likes to party, you will have the time of your life on the island. Ibiza’s nightlife is legendary. Close to Ibiza Town you will find clubs such as Pacha, Amnesia and Ushuaïa which attract the world’s best DJs.

More nightlife is concentrated around San Antonio with staples such as Eden, Es Paradis and Ibiza Rocks all attracting an international crowd.

For an iconic Ibiza experience, make sure you visit the famous Café del Mar in San Antonio at sunset. This iconic bar is famous for its chillout music and albums which have spread across the world.

For those preferring a more relaxing experience, make the most of Ibiza’s hippy culture. There are plenty of yoga retreats on the island and various hippy markets, the most famous of which is Las Dalias in San Carlos.

Another great option is at Es Canar in the south of the island. This market runs every Wednesday, April to October but can get very crowded so get there early.

Where To Stay In Ibiza

For clubbers or party-goers, base yourself in either Ibiza Town, San Antonio or Playa d’en Bossa so you are close to the action. LGBTQ+ holidaymakers will find the best nightlife around Ibiza Town.

For families or those looking for a more relaxed time, there are plenty of resorts around the island offering a more relaxed vibe. A personal favourite is Es Canar.

I went there on my first three trips to Ibiza with my family and have the best memories of the resort. It boasts a beautiful beach, plenty of shops and restaurants and some nightlife without the intensity of San Antonio and Ibiza Town.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Ibiza:
Hotel Cenit & Apts. Sol y Viento: Within easy reach of Ibiza Town and with great sea views, this hotel is the perfect place to based yourself to explore the island.

18. Toledo

Toledo, located in central Spain, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” it showcases the influences of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish civilizations.

With its stunning architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and captivating atmosphere, Toledo is one of the offers a unique blend of historical significance and timeless beauty.

Top Thing To Do In Toledo

Visit the UNESCO-listed historic centre of Toledo. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the medieval architecture, and soak up the charming atmosphere. Don’t miss Plaza de Zocodover, the main square of the city, which is a great starting point for your exploration.

Continue exploring the historic centre by visiting the cathedral. Also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo. It’s a magnificent Gothic cathedral with stunning interiors and beautiful works of art, including paintings by El Greco.

Where To Stay In Toledo

The Jewish Quarter is a picturesque neighbourhood with narrow streets, traditional houses, and hidden squares. It’s a great location if you want to be close to the historic centre but slightly away from the crowds. There are several hotels and guesthouses offering comfortable accommodations in this area.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Toledo:
San Juan de los Reyes: Situated in the Jewish quarter in Toledo, the hotel is homed in an old flourmill. The rooms have magnificent views of the city and the hotel is ideally located to all the sights.

19. Pamplona

Pamplona is located in the northeastern region of Navarre. Whilst not as big as other cities on this list, Pamplona truly comes to life during July when the world-famous Fiesta de San Fermin takes place. Drawing tourists from all over the world, this festival alone makes Pamplona a fantastic option if visiting Spain for the first time.

Top Thing To Do In Pamplona

Perhaps obviously, the top thing to do in Pamplona is the Fiesta de San Fermin or the Running of the Bulls festival. This popular festival is one of Spain’s most famous (and most crazy!).

Join the thrilling spectacle of running with the bulls through the narrow streets of the city. Even if you don’t participate, experiencing the festival’s lively atmosphere is an unforgettable cultural experience.

Where To Stay In Pamplona

Choosing where to stay in Pamplona depends on your personal preferences and your budget. Here are my top two recommendations.

A good option is staying in the Old Town. This puts you in the heart of Pamplona’s historic centre, close to major attractions and the lively atmosphere of the city. You’ll find a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments within the winding streets of this charming neighbourhood.

The Ensanche district, also known as the New Town, is located just outside the Old Town. This area offers a mix of accommodation options, including mid-range and upscale hotels. It’s a good choice if you prefer a more modern setting and easy access to amenities.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Pamplona:
Hotel Masionnave: Located right in the centre of Pamplona, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a gym and even a sauna.

20. Salamanca

Salamanca is a historic city located in the Castilla y León region of central Spain. It is renowned for its prestigious university, which dates back to the 13th century. The university gives the city a youthful and vibrant atmosphere. Salamanca’s architectural beauty is captivating, with its stunning sandstone buildings, intricate plazas, and the famous Plaza Mayor, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Top Thing To Do In Salamanca

Salamanca’s beautiful Plaza Mayor is the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere and is one of the most impressive in Spain. Marvel at the Baroque architecture, relax at one of the outdoor cafés, and soak in the lively atmosphere, especially at night, where local musicians play and entertain the crowds.

Also, don’t miss the University of Salamanca. Established in 1218, it is one of the oldest universities in Europe. Explore the magnificent buildings, including the famous Plateresque façade, and don’t forget to search for the frog hidden in the intricate carvings.

Where To Stay In Salamanca

As with many of the cities on this list, the best place to stay in Salamanca is the Historic Centre or Casco Histórico in Spanish. Staying in the heart of the city allows you to be close to major attractions, such as the Plaza Mayor and the cathedrals. This area offers a charming atmosphere with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a wide selection of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.

My Top Accommodation Pick For Salamanca:
Hospes Palacia de San Esteban: Located in a converted convent, the rooms at this centrally located hotel and impressive and provide the ideal place from which to explore the city.

Top 20 Places In Spain For First Timers: Map

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Spain?

The best time to visit Spain is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and mild. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the scorching heat of summer or the cold of winter. Additionally, visiting during these times allows you to avoid the large crowds of tourists that flock to Spain during the peak summer months.

How many days is best to visit Spain?

The ideal number of days to visit Spain depends on the specific places you want to explore and the depth of your desired experience. For a general overview and to visit major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, a minimum of 10 to 14 days is recommended.

This timeframe allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, explore iconic landmarks, and indulge in the diverse culinary scene. You’ll have enough time to visit popular attractions, take day trips to nearby destinations, and get a sense of the Spanish way of life.

Is Spain an expensive country to visit?

Spain is generally considered an affordable destination for travellers, especially when compared to other European countries. However, the cost of your trip can vary depending on factors such as the region you visit, the time of year, and your personal preferences. Major cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be more expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining, while smaller towns and rural areas tend to offer more budget-friendly options. Overall, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to have an enjoyable trip to Spain without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: Best Places To Visit In Spain For First-Timers

Spain has something for everyone and deciding where the best place to visit in Spain for first-timers is ultimately down to what your interests are and what you want to get out of your trip. Spain can compete with any country in the world for city breaks, beach getaways, outdoor adventures and incredible culture.

My top recommendation would be to visit Valencia. The city offers a broad amount of activities, has fantastic cuisine and great culture and festivals. What’s more, is within easy access to a beach and is less busy than Madrid and Barcelona, meaning a more relaxed vibe. That said, both Madrid and Barcelona offer a fascinating and iconic introduction to Spain.

If you are someone who likes to travel a little differently, the north of Spain offers some fantastic cities and stunning landscapes. Consider combining the cities of Santander, Bilbao and San Sebastian in a week-long trip or venture further west to Asturias and Galicia to experience a Spain not often seen on postcards.