Year after year, millions of families and couples book flights to Spain to enjoy the country's dazzling beaches and visit its stupendous historic sites. This country offers some of the best nightlife in the world, and is renowned for its vibrant, family-oriented culinary scene, which has been influenced by North Africa and the rest of the Mediterranean. Spain is also acclaimed for its remarkably diverse landscapes, which range from the golden beaches of sun-kissed Andalucia in the far south, to the lush temperate woodlands of Galicia in the far north-west.
Madrid
The lively Spanish capital is blessed with many beautifully preserved Baroque landmarks, probably the most famous of which is the terrific Palacio Real, the royal palace. See the world-class El Prado Museum, have a stroll around the enormous Buen Retiro Park, and observe the spectacular Plaza de Cibeles with its refined sculptures and fountains. You should also consider visiting the historic Puerta del Sol square, which is the geographical heart of the country and is known in English as the 'Gate of the Sun'.
Barcelona
Culturally and architecturally, Barcelona feels worlds apart from Madrid, and this is mainly due to the city's proud status as the capital of Catalonia. Indeed, here you will notice that the street names and day-to-day conversation will be in Catalan, an early-medieval language spoken by well over seven million people across the world. See the awe-inspiring, yet unfinished Sagrada Família church, head to the majestic Gothic Quarter, and take the cable car to the top of the Montjuïc mountain for a phenomenal view of the city.
Valencia
No trip to enchanting Seville would be complete without a visit to the towering cathedral, which is noted for its beautiful Giralda bell tower and is an intriguing blend of Moorish and Renaissance architectural styles. Seville is also famed for its magnificent Plaza de España Renaissance-Revival square, the historic Moorish Alcázar palace, and its Museum of Fine Arts.
Seville
No trip to enchanting Seville would be complete without a visit to the towering cathedral, which is noted for its beautiful Giralda bell tower and is an intriguing blend of Moorish and Renaissance architectural styles. Seville is also famed for its magnificent Plaza de España Renaissance-Revival square, the historic Moorish Alcázar palace, and its Museum of Fine Arts.
Málaga
One of Europe's sunniest holiday destinations, Málaga also has a vast Moorish landmark, the Alcazaba, and features several glorious sandy beaches. It's also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, whose life and works are celebrated at the Museum Picasso in the grand 16th-century Buenavista Palace.
Alicante
Another city with extremely high annual sunshine hours, Alicante has an impressive Archaeological Museum and is also well within reach of plenty of fantastic beaches. You could head to the Santa Bárbara Castle for a fabulous view of the city, then consider a day trip to the stunning islet of Tabarca nearby.
Spain travel tips
How long is a flight from England to Spain?
It takes around 2 hours to fly from England to Spain.
What is the weather like in Spain?
Spain has a mediterranean climate with very hot and dry summers while winters are considered cool and dry.
What is the distance between the UK and Spain?
The air travel distance between the UK and Spain is around 2,262 kilometers or 1,406 miles.
