Spain Holidays

Best areas to stay for holidays in Spain

Spain is a diverse country with something to offer for every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, or tranquil countryside, Spain has a destination to match your holiday desires. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay.

Coastal getaways

Spain's coastline is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively resorts. Here are some top coastal destinations:

• Costa del Sol: Known for its golden beaches and sunny weather, this region offers luxurious resorts, golf courses, and vibrant nightlife.

• Costa Brava: With its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and charming villages, Costa Brava is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Canary Islands: A year-round sunny destination with volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and a unique culture. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the most popular islands.

Urban escapes

For those who love the hustle and bustle of city life, Spain’s cities are a blend of history, culture, and modernity:

• Barcelona: Famous for its architecture, including Gaudí's masterpieces, lively nightlife, and sandy beaches.

• Madrid: The vibrant capital offers world-class museums, stunning architecture, and a rich culinary scene.

• Valencia: Known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, beautiful parks, and the famous Las Fallas festival.

Countryside retreats

Spain’s countryside provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility:

• Andalusia: This region is famous for its white-washed villages, flamenco music, and historical cities like Seville and Granada.

• Catalonia: Beyond Barcelona, explore the Pyrenees mountains, medieval villages, and picturesque vineyards.

• Galicia: Known for its lush landscapes, stunning coastline, and delicious seafood, Galicia is a hidden gem in the northwest.

Island paradises

Spain’s islands offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture:

• Balearic Islands: Majorca, Menorca, and Ibiza are popular for their crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

• Canary Islands: Besides the coastal activities, the islands offer unique landscapes such as the Teide National Park in Tenerife.

Tips for Choosing Your Destination

When planning your holiday in Spain, consider the following:

• Season: The best time to visit varies by region. Coastal areas are ideal in summer, while cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be enjoyed year-round.

• Activities: Decide whether you want a beach holiday, cultural experience, or outdoor adventure.

• Budget: Spain offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels.

Spain’s diverse regions ensure that every traveller can find their perfect holiday destination. Whether you’re looking for sun, culture, or nature, Spain has it all. Start planning your Spanish getaway today and discover the beauty and excitement of this incredible country.

Best Time to Go to Spain: Maximising Your Holiday Experience

Deciding the best time for holidays in Spain, including destinations like Málaga, Valencia, and Cádiz, depends largely on your preferences and the activities you plan to enjoy.

What to know for your holidays in Spain's top destinations

When planning a holiday in Spain, each destination offers something unique. Here's a snapshot to guide your choice, along with links to dive deeper into what each place has to offer:

• Holidays to Tenerife: A paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering diverse landscapes from Spain's highest peak to stunning beaches of all hues.

• Holidays to Ibiza: Perfect for both party-goers and seekers of tranquillity, with its vibrant nightlife and serene villages and coves.

• Cheap Benidorm holidays: Ideal for those looking for lively beaches, entertainment, and a variety of dining options within reach of towering hotels.

• Barcelona holidays: Offers a cultural feast with iconic architecture, historic markets, and a buzzing food scene.

• Majorca holidays: Mixes serene mountains, secret beaches, and the historic allure of Palma for a rich holiday experience.

• Holidays to Lanzarote: Appeals to lovers of volcanic landscapes, unique art, and excellent wineries alongside beautiful beaches.

• Gran Canaria holidays: Known for its diverse terrains, from desert dunes to lush valleys, offering vibrant resorts and cultural richness.

• Seville holidays: Immerses you in Andalusian culture with flamenco, historical sites, and colourful festivals.

• Fuerteventura holidays: A hotspot for water sports, boasting excellent windsurfing, kiteboarding spots, and wide sandy beaches.

• Menorca holidays: Offers a tranquil getaway with secluded beaches, prehistoric sites, and a laid-back atmosphere.

• Cheap holidays to Costa del Sol: Not just about sunbathing; it's also home to golf courses, cultural sites, and upscale marinas.

• Costa Blanca holidays: Attracts with its beautiful beaches, scenic towns, and the lush palm groves of Elche.

These destinations each provide a unique slice of Spain's rich tapestry, from relaxation and adventure to cultural immersion. Click through to explore more about what each location can offer for your next holiday.

All-Inclusive Holidays to Spain

Discover the ultimate relaxation with an all-inclusive holiday to Spain, where everything is sorted for you from the moment you arrive. Whether you choose the golden beaches of Majorca, the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, or the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza, each destination offers a unique experience. Enjoy unlimited meals, drinks, and entertainment without the hassle of additional costs. Perfect for families, couples, and groups looking for a stress-free getaway, Spain’s all-inclusive resorts let you indulge in the beauty and culture of these stunning islands with complete peace of mind.

How to get to Spain: Ease of travel

Travelling to Spain from the UK is convenient, with multiple transport options available, enhancing the appeal of holidays to Malaga, Valencia, Cadiz, and other popular destinations.

Flying into Spain

Most major airports in the UK offer routes to Spain, with popular arrival points including Malaga, Valencia, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, and Alicante. For the northwest, flights from London to Santiago de Compostela or A Coruña are available.

Additionally, direct flights to the Spanish islands like Majorca, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and Ibiza are readily available, making them accessible and popular choices for holidaymakers seeking a blend of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. These islands, each with its unique charm, are perfect for those looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and scenic beauty of Spain's island destinations.

Getting around Spain: Exploring with ease

Navigating Spain is straightforward, making it easy to explore the country during your holidays in Spain.

Train Travel and Other Options

The train is a popular choice for travelling between major cities, though long-distance train travel can be pricey. Cross-country coaches, like FlixBus, offer an alternative for extensive travel. In regional areas, trains and buses are the easiest options. For more flexibility, especially in rural areas like Asturias, Basque Country, and Galicia, car hire is recommended, as train connections may be limited.

Spain promises a holiday experience filled with cultural richness, scenic beauty, and memorable adventures.

Discover Spain's Diverse Attractions

Spain, a vibrant and diverse country, offers a multitude of activities for every type of traveller. Renowned for its stunning beaches, Spain is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing 'fly and flop' holiday. Whether you're longing for a peaceful swim or a sunbath on some of Europe's finest beaches, Spain has it all.

For the adventurous, the nation's coasts offer exhilarating watersports, including paddle-boarding in tranquil waters, as well as surfing and windsurfing along the more dramatic coastlines.

Outdoor Adventures

Beyond the beaches, Spain's landscape is ideal for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local culture with a vineyard tour.

Urban Exploration

Spain's cities brim with engaging activities: explore world-class galleries, museums, cathedrals, and mosques. Here's a snapshot of popular Spanish attractions:

• Seville Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar.

• The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.

• The Nasrid Palaces and the Alhambra in Granada.

• Balcony of Europe in Nerja.

• Tabernas Desert near Almeria.

• Royal Palace of Madrid

• The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

• Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias in Valencia.

• Gaudí's masterpieces, including La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

Spain for Young Adults: Unforgettable Experiences

Spain is a treasure trove of experiences for young adults. Vibrant nightlife, music festivals, and lively beach parties epitomise Spain's youthful spirit.

Adventure and Nightlife

Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza are famous for their bustling club scenes and DJ sets. Adventure seekers can indulge in water sports, mountain biking, or even join the famed Camino de Santiago trek.

Culinary Adventures

For a unique experience, explore Spain's rich culinary scene through tapas tours or cooking classes.

Romantic Escapades in Spain for Couples

Spain, with its romantic landscapes and charming cities, is a haven for couples. Enjoy intimate moments in the quaint streets of Seville or the idyllic beaches of Costa Brava.

Romantic Activities

Couples can revel in sunset cruises, wine tasting in the Rioja region, or a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque countryside. Unwind with a couples' spa day, influenced by Spain's Moorish heritage, or enjoy a candlelit dinner in a historic castle.

Enjoy Spain Without Spending a Fortune

Spain's wealth of free activities makes it a budget-friendly destination. The country's beaches, open to the public, offer a cost-effective way to relax and enjoy nature.

Budget-friendly Exploration

Hiking trails, available at no cost, provide an opportunity to explore Spain's stunning landscapes. City exploration, from architectural marvels to atmospheric streets, is a delightful, cost-free experience. Many cities offer free walking tours, giving insights into local life.

Cultural Freebies

Check city schedules for free entry days to museums and galleries, a common practice in Europe. In places like Seville, you might even stumble upon a spontaneous flamenco performance in the plazas, a captivating experience at no cost.

Unveil the allure of Spain's stunning beaches

Embark on a journey to Spain, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, home to some of the most idyllic beaches on the globe. Whether your preference lies with the sun-drenched mainland coasts or the tranquil beauty of its islands, Spain offers a beach paradise for every traveller. Discover the myriad of beach destinations Spain has to offer, from the energetic shores of Ibiza to the historic charm of Valencia, ensuring your holiday is nothing short of memorable.

Southern Coast treasures

The Costa del Sol, a perennial favourite among British holiday-goers, is celebrated for its broad, sandy beaches that stretch from Málaga to Marbella and extend to the vibrant city of Valencia. These locations are renowned for their inviting sea temperatures and diverse coastal offerings, from bustling beachfronts to serene, hidden coves. Holidays to Valencia, in particular, merges historical allure with beachside leisure, offering a unique blend of experiences for the discerning traveller.

Secluded beauties of Costa Brava

Just north of Barcelona, the Costa Brava is a treasure trove of sandy beaches and secluded calas (coves), enveloped by lush greenery and bathed in crystal-clear, warm waters. This region's rugged beauty and tranquil spots make it an ideal escape for those seeking peace amidst nature's embrace.

Cádiz's expansive shorelines

The shores around Cádiz, with sprawling sandy expanses like Playa de Valdegrana and Playa de La Cortadura, offer a haven of tranquillity and wide-open spaces, perfect for a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Galicia's untouched coast

Galicia's rugged Atlantic coastline is a surfer's dream and a nature enthusiast's paradise, known for its cooler waters, vibrant surf, and pristine beaches that boast unspoiled, azure vistas.

Northern Spain: A blend of adventure and beauty

The northern coast of Spain, akin to the scenic landscapes of Cornwall or Devon, is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Regions like Asturias and the Basque Country are celebrated for their sandy coves, dramatic cliffs, and verdant settings, offering a unique combination of adventure sports and scenic walks.

Diverse beaches of the Balearic Islands

Exploring the Balearic Islands - Ibiza, Menorca, Majorca, and Formentera - reveals a paradise of white sands and turquoise waters, each offering unique and stunning beaches.

Here's a guide to some of the best beaches and the towns they're near, perfect for your next sun-soaked getaway:

• Cala Comte, Ibiza: Near the town of Sant Antoni de Portmany, Cala Comte is celebrated for its dramatic rock formations and shallow turquoise waters, ideal for watching incredible sunsets.

• Cala Macarelleta, Menorca: Close to Ciutadella, the twin bays of Macarella and Macarelleta are Menorca's jewels, known for their beautiful electric blue waters and bone-pale sands.

• Playa de Formentor, Mallorca: Located near Port de Pollença, Formentor beach offers scenic views and shallow waters, nestled in one of Mallorca’s most breathtaking landscapes.

• Las Salinas, Ibiza: Close to Ibiza Town, Las Salinas is an iconic beach within a nature reserve known for its lively beach bars and serene spots for relaxation.

• Cala Gat, Mallorca: A short walk from the resort of Cala Ratjada, Cala Gat offers intense turquoise seas and a lovely, picturesque setting.

• Cala Mitjana, Menorca: Accessible from Cala Galdana, Cala Mitjana is famed for its stunning turquoise waters and serene atmosphere, surrounded by typical Balearic nature.

• Es Trenc Beach, Mallorca: Situated near Colonia de Sant Jordi, Es Trenc is a protected area known for its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a natural and serene beach experience. It's probably the most popular beach in Majorca, so expect it to be crowded.

• Cala Varques Beach, Eastern Mallorca: Located near Porto Cristo, Cala Varques is celebrated for its clear waters and is a less frequented beach, ideal for those looking for tranquillity and excellent snorkelling opportunities.

• Calò des Mort, Formentera: Near Migjorn, Calo des Mort is a calm and secluded cove, perfect for relaxing in Formentera's crystal-clear, calm waters.

Each of these destinations offers a unique beach experience, from secluded coves to family-friendly shores, embodying the diverse beauty of the Balearic Islands. Whether you're after relaxation, adventure, or simply stunning scenery, these islands have a beach that will meet your desires.

Exotic beaches of the Canary Islands

Exploring the Canary Islands, each with its unique landscapes and experiences, offers stunning beaches across Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and their nearby towns or resorts, ideal for your next beach holiday.

• Papagayo, Lanzarote: This exquisite white sand beach near Playa Blanca is a haven for beach lovers and is known for its clear, calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

• El Cotillo, Fuerteventura: The beaches south of El Cotillo are a paradise for surfers and windsurfers, offering big waves and an adventurous atmosphere, though they can be dangerous for swimmers when conditions are rough.

• Sotavento, Fuerteventura: Located on the Jandia Peninsula, Sotavento is celebrated for its white sands and is a popular spot for water sports, providing a picturesque beach experience.

• Maspalomas, Gran Canaria: Famous for its vast dunes and long stretch of beach, Maspalomas near Playa del Inglés offers iconic views and private spots, popular among nudists for its secluded nature.

• El Bollullo, Tenerife: Near Puerto de la Cruz, El Bollullo's black sand and volcanic rocks create a striking contrast, offering spectacular scenery and a unique beach experience.

• Famara, Lanzarote: For those seeking solitude, Famara provides a peaceful escape with its long bay against the backdrop of cliffs, making it a favourite for surfers and filmmakers alike.

• Corralejo, Fuerteventura: The expansive beach at Corralejo is known for its golden sands and desert-like dunes, offering a serene beach experience with views of Los Lobos island and Lanzarote.

• Janubio Beach, Lanzarote: Near Playa Blanca, Janubio Beach features a large natural lagoon and is next to Salinas de Janubio, Lanzarote’s historic salt flats, offering a quiet and unique landscape.

• Playa de Mógan, Gran Canaria: This enchanting beach next to Playa de Mógan is known for its crescent shape, clear waters, and proximity to whale-watching and other marine activities.

• Playa Bollullo, Tenerife: Near Puerto de la Cruz, this beach offers an idyllic setting with black sand and is a great spot for those looking to enjoy the novelty of Tenerife's volcanic landscape.

Each beach across the Canary Islands offers a distinct charm, whether you're after tranquil waters, adventurous water sports, or unique natural settings. For further information on these stunning locations, visit our Guide to the Canary Islands.

What to Eat in Spain

Spain's cuisine, as diverse as the country itself, offers a variety of specialities in each region and town. Here's a guide to some must-try foods that capture the essence of Spanish gastronomy.

Seafood Delights

Seafood is a staple in coastal areas, from Costa Brava to Galicia. Each region boasts its own local specialities, offering a fresh and authentic taste of the sea.

Paella: Spain's Signature Dish

Paella, often considered the national dish of Spain, is a culinary experience not to be missed. Traditionally made with seafood and chicken, this shared dish also comes in excellent vegetarian versions.

Tapas: A Taste of Spain

Tapas, especially popular in southern Spain, are small sharing plates perfect for sampling a variety of flavours. They are typically enjoyed with wine or beer, making them an integral part of the Spanish dining experience.

Pinxos/Pinchos: Bite-Sized Delights

Pinchos, similar to tapas but often served on a cocktail stick, are a culinary highlight in the Basque country and Asturias. These bite-sized snacks are an excellent way to taste a bit of everything.

Jamon and Chorizo: The Pride of Spain

Jamon (ham) and chorizo (sausage) are celebrated across Spain. Jamon Iberico, served in thin slices, is a delicacy, while chorizo makes for a fantastic tapas dish.

Padron Peppers: A Must-Try

Padron peppers, small and sweet, are a popular tapas choice throughout Spain. They are typically grilled or fried, offering a simple yet irresistible flavour.

Which Costa are you?

Four beautiful coastlines, with four unique personalities. Find your perfect beach holiday with our guide to Spain’s famous Costas.

Costa del Sol - for sun

The clue’s in the name with the Costa del Sol. This stretch of Malaga coastline has long been a favourite with sun-seeking holidaymakers, offering warm temperatures throughout the year. Resorts like Marbella and Torremolinos are famous for their beaches and nightlife, while the nearby region of Andalucia offers plenty of traditional Spanish charm. Don't miss the historic sites of Malaga, such as the Alcazaba and the Picasso Museum, or the charming white villages like Mijas. Explore holidays to Costa del Sol for the ultimate sunny getaway.

Costa Blanca - for fun

Stretching over 200km, the Costa Blanca is home to some classic Spanish beach resorts, including Alicante and Benidorm. Around these towns, you’ll find bars and nightlife, and theme parks and waterparks, making the Costa Blanca a great destination for family holidays. But if you fancy a bit of a change of pace, you could also check out the area’s more peaceful spots, like the Algar waterfalls and the picturesque town of Elche, or explore the historic sights of nearby Valencia. Discover holidays to Costa Blanca for a fun-filled holiday experience.

Costa Dorada - for history

Just to the southwest of Barcelona, the Costa Dorada (aka the Costa Daurada) translates as the Golden Coast, named after the area’s sparkling sandy beaches. In addition to welcoming resort towns like Salou and Cambrils, the Costa Dorada is also worth visiting for its historic sights, such as the Roman ruins of the city of Tarragona and the Les Ferreres Aqueduct. You’ll also be able to enjoy art and culture, bars, nightlife and thriving LGBTQ scenes in nearby Sitges and Barcelona. Explore holidays to Costa Dorada for a journey through history.

Costa Brava - for scenery

Translating as the “Wild Coast”, the Costa Brava is found in the northeast of Spain, close to the French border and the Pyrenees. Stretching from Blanes to Barcelona, the Costa Brava has several buzzing resort towns, like Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar. However, it’s the area’s inspirational landscapes that are really worth checking out - such as the rugged coastlines of Cap de Creus and the Mede Islands and the blue waters of Aigua Blava - which captured the imaginations of artists like Dali and Picasso. Discover holidays to Costa Brava for breathtaking scenery.

Canary Islands vs Balearic Islands

When choosing between the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands for your holidays in Spain, here are some key differences to consider:

Canary Islands

• Climate: The Canary Islands enjoy a subtropical climate, making them a great year-round destination. Winters are mild and summers are warm, but not excessively hot.

• Volcanic Landscapes: The islands, particularly Tenerife and Lanzarote, are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches.

• Diverse Activities: From hiking in Teide National Park to exploring the Timanfaya National Park, the Canary Islands offer a range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.

For an exciting adventure, explore holidays to the Canary Islands and discover unique volcanic landscapes and year-round sunshine.

Balearic Islands

• Mediterranean Charm: The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza, have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

• Beautiful Beaches: Known for their stunning beaches with golden sands and turquoise waters, the Balearic Islands are ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

• Nightlife and Culture: Ibiza is famous for its vibrant nightlife, while Mallorca and Menorca offer a rich cultural heritage with historic sites and charming villages.

For a blend of vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, consider holidays to the Balearic Islands and experience the Mediterranean charm and lively culture.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the destination that best fits your holiday preferences and enjoy an unforgettable experience in Spain.

Surf Areas in Spain

Spain's extensive coastline is a haven for surfers, offering a variety of excellent spots across the country.

Asturias: A Surfer's Dream

Asturias provides thrilling breaks at places like Playa de Rodiles and the beautiful beaches near Xago.

Galicia's Rugged Surf Spots

In Galicia, surfers enjoy spots such as Praia do Mar de Fóra and Praia de Area Maior for their rugged charm.

Basque Country's Surf Culture

The Basque Country is famous for its surf culture, with spots like Zurriola, Sopelana, and Mundaka.

Surfing in Tarifa

Tarifa, located in the southernmost part of Spain, is renowned for its strong winds and waves, making it a premier destination for wind and kite surfers. Its unique geographical position where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Ocean creates ideal conditions for water sports.

Hiking in Spain

Spain offers a wide range of hiking experiences, from picturesque coastal walks to challenging mountain trails.

The Famous Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage trail, leads to the significant Santiago de Compostela in the north.

Coastal Trails and Day Hikes

Explore diverse hiking options like Ruta del Cares, Camino del Rey near Grenada, Montserrat Mountain near Barcelona, and Peñalara near Madrid.

Cycling in Majorca

Majorca is a top destination for cyclists, with its varied landscapes and well-maintained routes. Enjoy your Majorca cycling holidays with our guide to the best routes.

Discovering Majorca on Two Wheels

The island offers everything from flat terrains for leisurely rides to challenging mountainous routes for more experienced cyclists.

Routes and Scenic Rides

Popular cycling routes in Majorca include the ascent of Sa Calobra and picturesque rides through the Tramuntana mountains, offering both challenging climbs and stunning views.

Events in Spain: A Calendar of Celebrations

Discover the vibrant heart of Spanish culture through its diverse and colourful events. Whether you're planning holidays to Tenerife, Valencia, or Seville or simply exploring the country, Spain offers an eventful experience for every visitor.

Carnival in Tenerife: A Spectacular Fiesta

Experience the dazzling Carnival in Tenerife, one of the world's largest street parties. This event is a highlight for those on holidays to Tenerife, featuring vibrant parades, flamboyant costumes, and non-stop dancing, reflecting the island's spirited culture.

Las Fallas: Valencia's Fiery Tradition

During Valencia holidays, immerse yourself in the fiery spectacle of 'Las Fallas'. This unique festival is marked by the creation and burning of ninots (large puppets or effigies), grand firework displays, and a lively street atmosphere, encapsulating the spirit of Valencia.

Feria de Abril: Seville's Flamenco Fair

While on holiday to Seville, don't miss the 'Feria de Abril', a week-long celebration of flamenco, fine food, and fun. The fairgrounds come alive with colourful casetas (tents), traditional dance, and the sounds of flamenco music, offering an authentic Andalusian experience.

San Fermin: Pamplona's Bull Running Festival

The 'San Fermin' festival, highlighted by the famous Running of the Bulls, is an iconic event in Pamplona. This adrenaline-fueled celebration draws visitors from all over, offering a blend of traditional Spanish culture, excitement, and a party atmosphere.

Other Notable Events

Spain's rich festival calendar also includes other significant events such as 'La Tomatina', the unique tomato-throwing festival in Buñol, and religious observances like Semana Santa (Holy Week) with its solemn processions.

Cultural and Musical Celebrations

From Barcelona's 'Grec Festival' to Madrid's 'Mad Cool', Spain's festivals cater to all tastes, celebrating everything from arts and culture to contemporary music. The country's culinary and film festivals further add to the rich tapestry of Spanish events.