Unlock the beauty and charm of Spain which welcomes visitors from far and wide to experience the grandeur of its cities and towns. Spain has something to appease the different tastes and expectations of its visitors. Soak in the views of Spain’s incredible landscapes from the striking beauty of Mallorca Islands to the Majestic views of the Mount Teide Volcano on the Canary Island. Meander through the streets of iconic cities like Madrid and Barcelona and be tempted by the intoxicating allure of the cities with its stunning cityscapes. Savor the vibrant flavours of the cuisine, experience the pulsating nightlife, and enjoy the architectural wonders peppered around the city. Treat yourself to a nice stay at the top hotels and golf resorts too. Uncover these things Spain is famous for, giving you more reason to book a flight to visit this beautiful country.
1. Sangria
One thing from Spain that most of us will agree to love is the delicious and heavenly sangria. This red wine-based drink originated in both Spain and Portugal, and under the regulations of the European Union (EU), only those countries are allowed to label their products as such. Under the EU law, a sangria contains wine as its base, along with citrus fruits. Optional additions may include spices and carbon dioxide. In Spanish, sangria means bloodletting, and the use of this term pertaining to the drink dates back to the 18th century.
2. Antoni Gaudí
Perhaps the most fascinating thing about Spain is the world-famous Sagrada Familia. This unfinished basilica in Barcelona is one of the most beautiful attractions in the world, and that’s all thanks to its designer, Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. Gaudi provided great contributions to Catalan Modernism, and his works are generally regarded as highly individualized, which, in simple terms, means unique. Gaudi’s main passions were architecture, religion, and nature, and his works often display triumphant use of ceramics, wrought ironwork, and stained glass.
3. Madrid
Madrid is Spain’s capital and most populous city, and for sports fans out there, it is home to Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, two world-famous football clubs. The city is located on River Manzanares and is considered the economic, cultural, and political center of the country. While most of the city displays modern structures, much of its historic districts have maintained the old town-charm. Some of the attractions Madrid is known for include Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and the Royal Theatre.
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4. Alhambra
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain is the Alhambra in Granada. It is a palace and a fortress complex that was initially built in 889 CE. The Emirate of Granada, Arab Nasrid emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar, renovated in the 13th century. In its time, it has become a royal palace in 1333 and a Royal Court in 1492. This iconic landmark in Spain derived its name from the Arabic word al-Hamra, meaning “the red one.” The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most-visited attractions in the country.
5. Wine
You better believe it. Spain has produced some of the best wines we have tasted. The country is home to over 1.2 million hectares (2.9 million acres of wine grapes. Rioja and Ribera del Duero are two of the biggest wine regions and they are notable for the production of Tempranillo wine. Monastrell wine is mostly from Jumilla, while Sherry wine comes from Jerez de la Frontera. Spain is the second-largest producer of wine, next to Italy, despite it being the most planted wine-producing country. Spain ranks ninth on the list of worldwide wine consumption.
6. Siestas
What is Spain known for? Everyone’s favorite: siesta! The Spanish siesta is a pivotal aspect of the Spanish lifestyle and is a revered custom followed by the locals. As one of the hottest countries, the traditional reasoning behind a siesta is for the workers in the field to find refuge from the heat in the cool of the shelter where they can rest and be rejuvenated to work harder after the nap. The Spanish siesta is a tradition where locals take a short nap for a duration of 15 to 30 minutes. Although the tradition seems to be fading in the past few years, the custom is still followed by some of the locals. Some insider tips on having the best siesta are to find a spot that is peaceful, its best practice to take your siesta lying down and to take a nap for no longer than 30 minutes. There is said to be two siestas one for the shops and business where people go to bars and restaurants which take place from 2 PM until 5 PM and then the siesta for restaurants which is taken from 4 PM until 9 PM.
7. Spanish football
One of the most famous sports in Spain is football and is a revered participant and spectator sport which is integrated into the culture of the Spaniards. Spains is also home to two of the worlds best teams which are Real Madrid and FC Barcelona who have produced some of the most internationally recognised footballers like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A visit to Spain would not be complete without feeling the electrifying energy of one of the games played at the stadiums.
8. La Sagrada Familia
Be captivated by the sheer grandeur and splendour fo the La Sagrada Familia which is one of the most visited monuments in Spain. This architectural wonder attracts around 2.8 million visitors a year to enjoy the medieval charm, intricate design and celestial beauty of the cathedral. This famous thing in Spain is located in the city of Barcelona is a true masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that everyone should add to their must-visit bucket list.
9. Spanish cuisine
Embark on a gastronomic experience of great proportion savouring the burst of flavour of the cuisine offered in the restaurants and cafes of Spain. Spaniards are obsessed with great food and wine and will not compromise on taste. If you have heard of Tapas and have tried it at your local restaurant at home, it comes nothing close to the tapas of Spain. When in Spain, be sure to check out the Airbnb vacation rentals on offer where the guests will introduce you the flavours of Spain with recipes being hand down from generation to generation. Spain is known for seafood, Jamon which is cured ham and fresh fruits and vegetables.
10. Flamenco dance
Be fascinated by an explosion of music, song and dance of the Spanish flamenco. This popular thing in Spain originated from the Andalusia region and is associated with the Spanish Romani gipsy community which is now an internationally recognised style of dance. The locals adorn themselves in colourful handcrafted costumes and are lively, romantic and exuberant display.
11. Corrida De Torros
Bullfighting or Corrida De Torres is one of Spains best-known customs and has been a part of the tradition of the Spaniards. Over the years there have been efforts to stop the bullfighting tradition on the basis of animal cruelty, while many of the larger cities have stopped the practice this time-honoured tradition anymore. However, there are places that offer travellers tours of the bullring and enlighten them about the history of this custom.
12. Ibiza
What is popular in Spain that most of us wish to visit in our lifetime? The balmy island of Ibiza! This place is nothing short of absolutely spectacular. Tourists flock to Ibiza to experience the bliss of the island. During the day Ibiza is a paradise for beach lovers boasting an array of tranquil beaches with the alluring beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun tucks away behind the horizon, the island comes alive in a buzz of activity and festivities featuring an eclectic nightlife. Partiers flock to the island to hot the dance floor at the all-night ravers and hip club. This is the ultimate destination for clubbers and for the traveller looking to experience the boho-glam style of Ibiza.
13. The Mediterranean beaches
The breathtaking beauty of Spain’s picturesque beaches has attracted scores of beach lovers. Spain is blessed with a seemingly endless stretch of coastline flanked by the azure of the Mediterranean Sea where visitors can choose to sunbathe upon the silky sands or decide to take a dip in the refreshing water. Venture out to Illas Cies which is a trio of pristine islands and be sure to visit Rodas Beach. Rodas Beach is characterised by sparkling blue waters and white sandy beaches where travellers can soak in the views while enjoying a drink at the beach bars. Combine the best of both worlds and visit the La Concha Beach in the town of San Sebastian. The beautiful bay is flanked by the dramatic cityscape where travellers can take afternoon strolls along the promenade. The biggest drawcard is the paradise islands of Mallorca which boast some of the most strikingly beautiful natural landscapes in Spain and the most appealing of beaches. There are so much more beaches to explore along the Mediterranean coast.
14. Fiestas
Spain is home to some of the worlds most colourful and famous festivals and fiesta which people travel to experience. Apart from the major festivals held in Spain, each Spanish town hosts their own fiestas, where locals come together in a display of great food, dance and music to celebrate. The Tomatina Tomato Fight festival is held every year and is arguably the worlds biggest food fight. Locals and tourists run through the streets of Bunol flinging tomatoes at each other. Feria de Sevilla is held in Seville and is a celebration of the Spanish culture and a great family-friendly festival to attend. Spain has a myriad of festivals to participate in every year so be sure to check the events calendar of Spain before travelling.
15. Pablo Picasso
Famous painters and writers hail from Spain and tourists flock to the country to view the works of art of the likes of Pablo Picasso. Stroll through world-famous art galleries like Madrid’s Prado or Barcelona’s Picasso Museum to appreciate the handiworks of this great painter. The Picasso Museum stands as a tribute to the painters and allows travellers and locals to explore the life and legacy of this iconic artist.
Say yes to Spain
So there you have it, 10 reasons why you should visit Spain and get a first-hand experience to the glam, beauty and finesse of this country.