Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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Paseo de la Castellana
The grand Paseo de la Castellana runs for nearly 4 miles (6 km), from the Plaza de Colón to the outskirts of northern Madrid. The most important north-south thoroughfare in the city also takes visitors past some of the city’s most important landmarks and neighborhoods.
The Basics
You’d be hard-pressed to visit Madrid without crossing the Paseo de la Castellana during your stay. Sightseeing tours by car, bus, or bike, or on foot, take visitors along portions of this thoroughfare on the way to attractions like the Puerta del Sol, Plaza de España, and the renowned Museo del Prado. Anyone visiting Real Madrid’s home stadium, the Santiago Bernabeu, will travel via the Paseo de la Castellana as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Spending time on Paseo de la Castellana is a must for every first-time visitor to Madrid.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; the Paseo de la Castellana is quite long.
- The Paseo de la Castellana is wheelchair-accessible, as are many of the shops and restaurants along the way.
How to Get There
Portions of the Paseo de la Castellana are walkable, and the entire length of the road is serviced by numerous buses and metro lines.
When to Get There
The best time to visit this area depends largely on what interests you. Stop at one of the terraced restaurants lining the street for lunch, dinner, or evening drinks, or stroll along the road after sundown to see its buildings and monuments illuminated.
Four Towers Business Area
The Paseo de la Castellana terminates at the Four Towers (Cuatro Torres), a business park comprising Madrid’s four tallest skyscrapers. The tallest, the Crystal Tower (Torre de Cristal), measures 817 feet (249 meters) tall, making it the tallest building in Spain.
Address: Paseo de la Castellana, Madrid, Spain
From $ 29
Joan Miró Museum (Fundació Joan Miró)
The works of Joan Miró, one of Barcelona's most famous 20th-century artists, are displayed in this museum in Parc de Montjuïc. The gallery itself is a piece of modern art, its design incorporating terraces and interior courtyards to direct the flow of visitors and give the space an open air feel. It shouldn’t be missed.
The Basics
This Barcelona museum is home to a collection of more than 14,000 pieces by Miró—one of the most comprehensive collections of his art in the world covering several mediums and all stages of the artist’s career. Spend more time enjoying the collection and less time queuing up with a skip-the-line entrance ticket, or opt for the Barcelona Museum Pass for entrance into six of Barcelona’s most popular museums, including the Picasso Museum and the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Entrance to the Miró Museum is also included on the Barcelona Card and the complex is a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Joan Miró Museum is a must-visit for art lovers and architecture buffs.
- Free Wi-Fi is available to visitors throughout the museum.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible, as is public transportation to and from the museum site.
How to Get There
The Joan Miró Museum is well connected by public transportation. Take bus 55 or 150 to Parc de Montjuïc or ride the Montjuïc Funicular from the Parallel metro station. There is no parking available at the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Mondays and public holidays. There are free guided tours of the collection in English each Thursday afternoon.
Espai 13
To further promote his belief that art should not be categorized or restricted, Miró dedicated his pieces to the Fundació to be displayed only under the condition that a space be reserved to exhibit the works of emerging artists. In keeping their word, the Fundació created Espai 13, which holds exhibits of upcoming contemporary artists.
Address: Parc de Montjuïc, Barcelona 08038, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Madrid Matadero
Once a large slaughterhouse and now a center for the arts, the Madrid Matadero was one of the most important architectural transformations for the city in the 20th century. It operates as a living laboratory for cross-disciplinary artistic forms, pushing the boundary of culture and creativity while honoring the structure of the past.
The city has transformed one of its largest agricultural markets into a center for the arts. Ranging from music and drama to dance and theater, it encourages experimentation and alternative forms of expression and creation. Its facilities (stages rehearsal rooms, and classrooms) are open and available to all artists.
Frequent exhibitions of the best in modern fashion, design, cinema and literature make this series of open and covered spaces one of the most fascinating cultural spots in Madrid. Some consider it to be one of the most important contemporary art centers in all of Europe.
Practical Info
Located in the Arganzuela district of Madrid, the museum is free to visit. It is open Tuesday to Friday from 4 to 9 pm, and Saturdays from 11 am to 9 pm (closed Mondays) Get there by taking the metro to the Legazpi stop.
Address: Plaza de Legazpi 8, Madrid 28045, Spain
Hours: Tues-Fri 4-10pm and Sat-Sun 11am-10pm
From $ 31
Penedes
Home to more than 300 wineries, Spain’s Penedes region produces some of the country’s best cava, a sparkling wine made with the same method that’s used to make French champagne. The historic town of Vilafranca del Penedes is filled with medieval and Modernista architecture, as well as restaurants pouring locally made wines.
The Basics
Many travelers visit Penedes on a day trip from Barcelona. Though wine tasting is at the top of the activity menu, there are tours for all types of travelers. Cycle through picturesque vineyards on a guided bike tour of the region, take a food tour to sample local artisan olive oils and cheeses, or combine an afternoon of wine tasting with a morning visit to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed Montserrat Monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Penedes is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
- You can pair your wine tasting with other activities such as a bicycle ride, Segway tour, or a Monastery visit.
- Penedes day trips from Barcelona can last seven to 10 hours, depending on the activities that are included.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
How to Get There
Penedes is 45 minutes from Barcelona. To get there, take the Renfe train from Plaza Catalunya or Estació de Sants.
When to Get There
One of the most exciting times to visit Penedes is during the autumn grape harvest, which happens during September and October. Fall and spring both offer cooler temperatures perfect for touring the vineyards. July and August tend to be the busiest months at popular wineries and Montserrat Monastery.
Famous Winemakers of Penedes
This wine region has hundreds of wineries to choose from, but a few are such big names that you’re likely to see their labels at your wine store back home. Among those that offer tours are Codorníu with its grand Modernista building, Freixenet (the biggest cava producer in Spain), and Torres, a 17th-century family-owned winery.
Address: Alt Penedès, Barcelona, Spain
From $ 103
Malaga Cruise Port
With its history, culture, and sun-drenched beaches, Málaga ranks among the most popular destinations on Spain’s Costa del Sol. The Málaga port is in close proximity to town, so visitors can head straight to the historic center or the beach, or they can venture inland to take in the wineries and whitewashed villages of Andalucia.
The Basics
Passengers docking at the port of Málaga will find plenty to do right in town, including the Alcazaba (a Moorish fort), 16th-century Málaga Cathedral, Roman Theatre, and Picasso Museum Málaga (Museo Picasso Málaga), all within walking distance of each other.
Spanish tapas originated in this region of Spain, so be sure to indulge—glass of sangria in hand—at one of the many tapas bars and restaurants throughout the city center. Sun seekers hoping to spend a day on the beach have a nice stretch of sand just 650 feet (200 meters) from the dock.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many guided shore excursions take less than half a day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; there’s a lot to see in central Málaga.
- Consider a private tour to ensure you don’t miss anything on your must-see list.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection; the sun can be intense in this part of Spain.
How to Get to Málaga From the Málaga Cruise Port
The Pier 1 dock used by most passenger cruise ships sits just over 1 mile (2 kilometers) from Plaza de la Constitución in the heart of historical Málaga, about a 15-minute walk away. You can also catch a Port Authority shuttle from the cruise terminal to Plaza de la Marina, and taxis are readily available.
Port Information
Passenger cruise ships dock at Quays 1 and 2, both located within walking distance of Málaga’s historical center. While English isn’t as widely spoken in Málaga as it is in Barcelona and Madrid, most people understand at least a little. The currency is the euro, and you’ll find ATMs at the port and scattered around downtown Málaga.
Address: Port of Malaga, Malaga, Andalucia, Spain
From $ 58
Magic Island Park (Parque Isla Magica)
Set on the site of the 1992 Expo in Seville, Magic Island Park (Parque Isla Magica) brings 16th-century colonial Spain to life—complete with pirates, galleons, jungles, and swashbuckling adventure. Seven themed areas center on a lake, with highlights that include white-knuckle roller coasters like Anaconda and El Jaguar, the 223-foot (68-meter) El Desafio drop tower, and Iguazu, a high-speed flume ride through the Brazilian jungle.
The Basics
Magic Island Park is one of Andalucia’s most popular family attractions, and park goers have several options for visiting. Besides a basic entrance ticket, you can choose from combined tickets to both Magic Island and its new sister water park. Or opt for an afternoon-only ticket—an especially good value on summer Saturdays when the park remains open to midnight. Magic Island is one of the stops on the Seville hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Magic Island Park is a must for families with kids and thrill-seekers.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water—Seville is one of the hottest cities in Spain. Expect temperatures around 95°F (35°C) in July and August.
- Opening hours vary considerably throughout the year, so be sure to check ahead.
- Much of the park is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The theme park is situated about two miles (three kilometers) northwest of El Centro. It’s walkable from the La Macarena district by passing over the Barqueta Bridge. Buses C1 and C2 take passengers from El Centro to the park’s front entrance.
When to Get There
Due to the park’s popularity, it’s a good idea to arrive early and head straight for the star attractions before lines get too long. Plan to stay (or return) after dark for the worthwhile fountain shows.
Agua Magica, the Beach of Seville
In 2014 the Magic Island amusement park debuted Agua Magica, a water park expansion that includes a small wave pool, an artificial beach, a variety of swimming pools, several slides, a lazy river, and a water feature–packed play area. Agua Magica is open from March or April to October, and hosts special events around Halloween and Christmas.
Address: Isla de la Cartuja, Seville 41092, Spain
Hours: Varies by season.
Admission: Full Day Ticket - Adults: € 29, Children: € 21
From $ 37
Paseo de los Tristes
A walk down Granada's Paseo de los Tristes is an essential, if not quite unmissable, part of your Granada experience. This riverside stretch of narrow road cuts between the canyon that separates the Alhambra fortress from the Albaicín neighborhood, and it also leads you to the famous cave-laced, flamenco-filled hillside area called the Sacromonte. At one time, it also served as the route for funeral processions as they made their way to the cemetery – hence the route’s name, which means "Promenade of the Sad."
But it's not just an area for simply passing through; this is also the perfect spot to stop and take in close-up exterior views of the Alhambra, even better enjoyed by grabbing a drink or bite to eat at one of the many outdoor restaurant terraces. Once you’ve had your fill of the wide, plaza-like walkway and its views, you can easily move on to the aforementioned destinations, including the Sacromonte and Albaicín neighborhoods, as well as the nearby Hammam Al Andalus Arab baths.
Practical Info
Paseo de los Tristes is a convenient stop, as it sits amidst some of the city’s top sights. That said, you can get there even more easily via the Granada hop-on hop-off train. And though none of the city’s public buses stop here, some do stop in Plaza Nueva, which is just a short walk away.
Address: Paseo del Padre Manjón, Granada, Andalucia 18010, Spain
From $ 15
Malaga Museum of Wine (Museo del Vino)
Opened in 2008, the Malaga Museum of Wine (Museo del Vino) celebrates one of Spain’s most important wine regions, famous for its muscatel. Housed in the eighteenth century Palacio de Biedmas, the museum traces the history of wine-making in the province through a collection of wine labels, posters and artifacts.
Visitors to the museum will learn about the province’s five districts and three wine-growing regions (Denominacion de Origin), as well as the types of grapes grown in each. A tasting room allows museum goers to sample wines produced in Malaga.
Practical Info
The museum ticket price includes two wine tastings, and additional wine tastings are 1€ each.
Address: Plaza Vineros 1, Malaga, Andalucia 29008, Spain
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Admission: 5 €
From $ 29
Malaga Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción)
Covering more than 250,000 square meters of landscaped lands, the Malaga Botanical Gardens are home to hundreds of tropical and subtropical plants from around the globe. Palm trees, vines, water plants, bamboo trees, and citrus trees can be seen throughout the extensive grounds. As open air pathways pass through the greenery, fountains, ponds, and streams complete the scenery. With the many varieties of palm trees and waters, the gardens have an oasis feel. Its mirador still has some of the best views of Malaga and the surrounding sea.
Designed by aristocrats in the 19th century, it was often a meeting place for important figures in Malaga at that time. Artists, politicians, and high society often gathered there. For these reasons, the gardens have been officially recognized for their historical-artistic importance. They are often cited as one of the best botanical gardens in Europe, and are considered a must-stop on most city tours.
Practical Info
The gardens are located just outside the city of Malaga. Get there via car or the Ciudad Jardin bus line. Guided tours through the grounds are given daily. Visitors can choose from many marked paths, with a basic route that takes about an hour and a half to navigate. The gardens are extensive, and could take a whole day to explore in full.
Address: Camino del Jardín Botánico, 3, Malaga, Andalucia 29014, Spain
Hours: Tues-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm
Admission: €5.20
From $ 41
Parque Warner Madrid
Located 25 kilometers south of Madrid, Parque Warner Madrid is a theme park that aims to cater to everyone in the family, from thrill-seekers to children, and movie-and-entertainment fans. Attractions are spread throughout five themed areas, which include Super Heroes World, Hollywood Boulevard, Old West Territory, Movie World Studios, and Cartoon Village. The park also puts on a selection of musicals and shows inspired by all things Hollywood and Warner Brothers.
When it comes to rides, the park has no shortage, with options ranging from kid-friendly cartoon-themed adventures, to adrenaline-inducing twisters. During warmer (often scorching) Madrid months, you can even go on water rides, though plan and prepare to get drenched. Little ones will feel most at home in Cartoon Village, where there are plenty of rides suitable for the whole family, as well as photo opportunities with famous animated characters.
Practical Info
Consider buying your tickets online in advance in order to save money and to skip the entry lines. Note that closing hours vary throughout the year, and that the park closes on most weekdays during winter months.
Address: M-301, Km 15.5, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid 28330, Spain
Hours: Varies by day of week and time of year
Admission: General: €39.90; discount pricing for children and seniors
From $ 47
Parque del Buen Retiro
El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro), often referred to simply as El Retiro, serves as the Spanish capital’s green lung. Dotted with ornate fountains, formal gardens, marble monuments, and plenty of space to relax, these former grounds of the Spanish monarchy became public in 1868 and have become a beloved spot for Madrilenos.
The Basics
Its central location both geographically and culturally means El Retiro is difficult to miss if you spend any time in Madrid. Most sightseeing tours include the park, and those interested in the park’s history and modern cultural significance can explore in-depth on a guided walking tour or Segway tour of the park, stopping at points of interest, such as the Crystal Palace and Fallen Angel statue.
Things to Know Before You Go
- El Retiro Park is a must-see for nature lovers, families, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
El Retiro is well-connected by public transportation. Take the metro (Line 2) to Retiro Station, or catch any number of public buses. The park also has more than half a dozen BiciMAD bike-share stations.
When to Get There
El Retiro makes a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city just about any time, but the best time to visit is on the weekends when locals come out to play sports, read a book, enjoy a picnic, and relax. This is also when the park fills with buskers and street painters, creating quite the lively atmosphere.
El Retiro Lake
At the heart of the park sits an artificial lake, set beneath the massive Monument to Alfonso XII. For a quintessential Madrid experience, head to the park in the afternoon and rent a rowboat for a float on the lake.
Address: Madrid, Spain
Hours: Open daily
From $ 12
Malaga Cathedral (Cathedral de la Encarnación)
Málaga’s gleaming white-stone cathedral was built over many years on the former site of a mosque after Isabella and Ferdinand had expelled the Moors from Andalusia in the 1480s. All that is now left of the mosque is the pretty Patio de los Naranjos, still filled with sweet-smelling orange trees. The cathedral is affectionately known locally as La Manquita (the one-armed lady) as it only has one—granted very elaborate and Baroque – bell tower. The other tower stands stunted and half-finished and the cathedral façade was never completed due to lack of civic funds; no-one is sure why but it may have been that funds were diverted into other projects across the region after a massive earthquake in 1680.
The original architect of the cathedral was Diego de Siloe and construction began in 1528; it continued slowly over the next two and a half centuries and this can clearly be seen in the mish-mash of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture on the façade. The architecture José Martín de Aldehuela, who built the Puente Nuevo in Ronda, also had a hand in finishing this cathedral.
The interior is a mix of gleaming Renaissance and Baroque elements, with a lavishly ornate vaulted ceiling and two massive organs that boast 4,000 pipes between them. The fine 17th-century choir is of mahogany and cedar, adorned with 42 sculptures of saints designed by Luis Ortiz da Bargas and Pedro de Mena.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the smaller, 15th-century Iglesia del Sagrano. Only its original Gothic portico now remains as it was largely rebuilt in 1714 following the 1680 earthquake; it has a wonderfully over-the-top interior. There is a small open-air museum in the cathedral grounds scattered with sculptures by Málaga artist Jorge Rando.
The original architect of the cathedral was Diego de Siloe and construction began in 1528; it continued slowly over the next two and a half centuries and this can clearly be seen in the mish-mash of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture on the façade. The architecture José Martín de Aldehuela, who built the Puente Nuevo in Ronda, also had a hand in finishing this cathedral.
The interior is a mix of gleaming Renaissance and Baroque elements, with a lavishly ornate vaulted ceiling and two massive organs that boast 4,000 pipes between them. The fine 17th-century choir is of mahogany and cedar, adorned with 42 sculptures of saints designed by Luis Ortiz da Bargas and Pedro de Mena.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the smaller, 15th-century Iglesia del Sagrano. Only its original Gothic portico now remains as it was largely rebuilt in 1714 following the 1680 earthquake; it has a wonderfully over-the-top interior. There is a small open-air museum in the cathedral grounds scattered with sculptures by Málaga artist Jorge Rando.
Practical Info
Málaga Cathedral is in the historic center of the city, where parking is difficult. For drivers, the nearest parking is at Plaza María Guerrero. The cathedral and museum are open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm but closed on Sunday unless for services. There is an admission charge but the open-air museum and gardens are free.
Address: Calle Molina Lario, 9, Málaga 29015, Spain
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Closed Sunday
From $ 28
Parque del Laberinto de Horta
Barcelona is filled with parks and unique art, and the Parque del Laberinto de Horta is one of the city’s oldest and least well known. The historic artistic gardens are part of a large former estate, containing both an 18th-century neoclassical garden and a 19th century romantic garden. The neoclassical garden was designed with the help of an Italian architect, while the romantic garden added details such as gazebos, waterfalls, and additional beds of colorful flowers.
Once the site of garden parties and socialite events, it was handed over to the city of Barcelona by the Devalls family in 1967. Visitors can still see the original mansion that the family once lived in, built in neogothic and neoarabic styles. A stroll throughout the grounds offers views of the many classical statues, fountains, Italian-style pavilions, and the hedge maze that gives the garden its name.
Practical Info
The park can be found in Barcelona’s Horta-Guinardó district at Passeig dels Castanyers 1, with the closest metro station being Mundet (Green L3 line.) It costs two euros to enter, and is free on Sundays. In order to preserve the delicate nature of the garden, no more than 750 people are allowed inside at once.
Address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Open Monday through Sunday, 11 am - 9 pm
Admission: €2
From $ 219
Magic Fountain
One of Barcelona’s most dazzling attractions, the Magic Fountain (Font Montjuic) was built in 1929 for the city’s World Exhibition. Travelers can still watch the fountain’s spectacular illumination displays, which feature music and a kaleidoscope of shimmering lights, all set against the majestic backdrop of Montjuic Palace.
The Basics
Designed by Carles Buigas, the Magic Fountain is one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing almost 2.5 million annual visitors. Stop by the fountain after dark to enjoy a range of uniquely choreographed spectacles—soundtracks range from classical scores to a remix of Barcelona by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé, while the fountain’s water acrobatics are performed by 3,620 jets and reach heights of 177 feet (54 meters). Guided tours of the Montjuic neighborhood often include a stop at the fountain during the day, and night tours—evening bike tours, bus tours, and nightlife tours—often feature the free fountain show.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is a must-see for families with kids and first-time visitors.
- Each fountain show lasts about 20 minutes.
- Stand upwind of the fountain to avoid getting wet.
How to Get There
The Magic Fountain is located at the foot of Montjuic Mountain, a hilltop Barcelona neighborhood, near the famous Placa Espanya square. The easiest way to get there is via the metro, getting off at Espanya station. Bus 55 also stops near the fountain, as do most hop-on, hop-off bus tours.
When to Get There
To experience the fountain in its full glory, it’s best to visit during one of the synchronized light and sounds shows. The light show schedule varies by season, with nightly shows on weekend evenings and an extended summer schedule. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to get a good spot during summer.
Where to Find Great Views of the Magic Fountain
The former bullring in Placa Espanya, now a shopping center, offers excellent panoramic views of the Magic Fountain, Montjuic Palace, and the entire city of Barcelona. Ride the escalators to the top floor, where restaurants circle the rooftop and the spectacular views are completely free.
Address: Avinguda Maria Cristina, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: The fountain operates Thursday to Sunday. Times change seasonally.
From $ 39
Malaga Alcazaba
If you’re in Malaga, chances are you’ve not missed the town’s citadel towering in the center of the city. Known as the Alcazaba de Malaga, and built around the middle of the 11th century to act as a palace to the region’s governors, today the Alcazaba receives visitors year-round and is noted for its impressive gardens and panoramic views of both the city and the sea.
La Alcazaba was built atop the vestiges of an old Roman fortress, and the proof of this is most evident in the Puerta de las Columnas gate (gate of the columns). Its name, in fact, refers and pays homage to the pre-existing roman structure used to help build the palace as it stands today. This gate and another lay before visitors on their way up to the structure which is actually two distinct architectural pieces: Alcazaba itself, and Gibralfaro Castle. Inside, you’ll see some of the noted gardens, fountains and towers in traditional Moorish design before entering the main lobby of the palace.
La Alcazaba was built atop the vestiges of an old Roman fortress, and the proof of this is most evident in the Puerta de las Columnas gate (gate of the columns). Its name, in fact, refers and pays homage to the pre-existing roman structure used to help build the palace as it stands today. This gate and another lay before visitors on their way up to the structure which is actually two distinct architectural pieces: Alcazaba itself, and Gibralfaro Castle. Inside, you’ll see some of the noted gardens, fountains and towers in traditional Moorish design before entering the main lobby of the palace.
Address: Spain
Hours: Open 9:30am – 8pm in the summer, and 8:30am – 7pm in the winter. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Entrance is €2
From $ 17
Madrid Rio
Madrid Rio is the name given to the 820-hectare area running along the banks of the Manzanares river in Madrid. Unveiled in 2008, 1.5 km from Puerta del Sol, Madrid Rio runs alongside the river for 6 km and connects existing green areas like the Casa del Campo with the city center. As you explore, you'll see river rowing lanes, kiosks, cafes, restaurants, terraces, sports facilities, outdoor gyms for adults, and 17 children’s play areas which include a tree trunk jungle, a slides hill and a zip line area. Eleven new footbridges have also been built as part of Madrid Rio, and already-existing bridges have been improved. New trees have been planted, including 5,000 in Arganzuela Park which also has a new cultural center, an auditorium for concerts, and a large skating rink. But come summertime, the most popular spot in Madrid Rio is the Urban Beach, which is little wonder given that the nearest beach is 220 miles away.
This long park stretches from El Pardo in the north east to Getafe in South Madrid. Easily reachable by metro, the following stations serve the area—Principe Pio, Puerta del Ángel. Marqués de Vadillo, Legazpi, and Almendrales. Rio Urban Beach is between the bridges Puente de Toledo and Puente de Praga, close to Arganzuela Park. Sunloungers cost €2 for the full day, and there's also an onsite beach bar and water fountains to cool down in.
Address: Madrid 28008, Spain
From $ 22
National Art Museum of Catalonia
Housed in the neo-baroque National Palace (Palau Nacional), the National Art Museum of Catalonia (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya) occupies a spectacular location, atop a hill in Montjüic. Inside is one of Catalonia’s largest museum collections: 260,000 works of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque art.
The Basics
The majestic palace of the National Art Museum of Catalonia towers over Barcelona from its perch above Plaça Espanya and the Montjüic Fountain. The building is an attraction in its own right and many sightseeing tours of the city stop there. Visitors can choose between a single admission ticket to the museum or a museum pass that grants skip-the-line entry to six Barcelona museums, including the Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-see for art lovers and architecture buffs.
- Book your entrance ticket ahead of time to skip the line at the ticket office and spend more time enjoying the collection.
- Most of the museum spaces are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent from the cloakroom.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on both floors of the museum.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to the hilltop museum. Ride the funicular from Parallel metro station, or take the Barcelona metro to Plaça Espanya (Line 1 or 3) and walk up the hill to the museum entrance. The Barcelona hop-on hop-off bus stops at the museum as well.
When to Get There
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday year-round, though hours vary from season to season. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month, when the museum can get rather crowded. Plan to visit first thing in the morning on a weekday for the best experience.
Famous Landmarks in La Ribera
The extensive museum collection can be overwhelming, so it’s a good idea to pick out a few highlights you’d like to see before you arrive. Visitor favorites often include the collection of Modernista design pieces by Antoni Gaudí, Zurbarán’s Immaculate Conception, and works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Rubens.
Address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuc, Barcelona 08038, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Passeig de Gracia
Passeig de Gracia is one of the most significant avenues in Barcelona. In addition to being home to some of the most celebrated architecture in the city, it is considered to be the most expensive street in all of Spain. Originally known as Carni de Jesus, the avenue began as a rural lane connecting Barcelona with the then-independent town of Gracia. Pursuant to an urbanization project in the 1820s, it was transformed into a wide avenue that eventually became a favorite of aristocrats. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, both for its architecture and for its shopping.
By the early 1900s, Passeig de Gracia featured homes designed by notable art nouveau/modernista architects such as Antonin Gaudi, Pere Falques, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluis Domenech i Montaner and Josep Vilaseca. Visitors should take note of the Manzana de la Discordia (the Apple of Discord), a block of Passeig de Gracia located on the southwest side of the avenue between Carrer del Consell de Cent and Carrer d'Arago. Here, you'll find buildings by four prominent architects in clashing styles: the Casa Lleo Morera by Montaner, the Casa Amatller by Cadafalch, the Casa Mulleras by Enric Sagnier, and Gaudi’s famous Casa Batlló. Also see Gaudi's Casa Milà, more commonly known as La Pedrera, with its impressive chimney pots shaped into what look like medieval knights.
Other possible stops along Passeig de Gracia include the Museu del Parfum and the Fundacio Sunol, which features rotating exhibits of 20th century art.
By the early 1900s, Passeig de Gracia featured homes designed by notable art nouveau/modernista architects such as Antonin Gaudi, Pere Falques, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluis Domenech i Montaner and Josep Vilaseca. Visitors should take note of the Manzana de la Discordia (the Apple of Discord), a block of Passeig de Gracia located on the southwest side of the avenue between Carrer del Consell de Cent and Carrer d'Arago. Here, you'll find buildings by four prominent architects in clashing styles: the Casa Lleo Morera by Montaner, the Casa Amatller by Cadafalch, the Casa Mulleras by Enric Sagnier, and Gaudi’s famous Casa Batlló. Also see Gaudi's Casa Milà, more commonly known as La Pedrera, with its impressive chimney pots shaped into what look like medieval knights.
Other possible stops along Passeig de Gracia include the Museu del Parfum and the Fundacio Sunol, which features rotating exhibits of 20th century art.
Address: Spain
From $ 25
Malaga Park (Parque de Malaga)
Covering more than three hectares and centered around three main pathways bordering both sides of the Paseo de Parque, Málaga Park was created at the end of the 19th century on land reclaimed from the Mediterranean Sea. Stretching along Málaga’s seafront from Plaza del General Torrijos to the Plaza de la Marina, the gardens are planted with perfumed roses, orange and cypress trees as well as exotic tropical shrubs and palm trees.
On the north side of the Paseo de Parque are several follies and fountains, including the Fuente de los Niños (Fountain of the Baby Boys) by revered ceramicist Juan Ruiz de Luna (1967). A succession of marble Neo-classical statues celebrate famous figures associated with Málaga, such as poet Salvador Rueda and artist Bernado Ferrándiz, and a cute little bronze of a donkey by Jaime Fernández Pimentel stands near the children’s play area. Pimentel was also responsible for the flying seagulls on the beguiling, open-air Eduardo Ocón Auditorium, which dates from 1962; there are weekly concerts held there on Sunday at noon as well as movie nights and music festivals in summer. Today the park is a popular stop on guided cycling tours of the city and horse-and-carriage rides also pass by the gardens.
Practical Info
Admission is free, and the park is open 24/7. It is best accessed on foot along the seafront; alternatively take EMT bus no 14 to Paseo de Parque.
Address: Paseo España, 2, Málaga, Andalucia, Spain
From $ 29
Madrid Wax Museum (Museo de Cera)
With two levels of more than 400 wax statues of historic figures, the Madrid Wax Museum is an excellent introduction to periods of history and those who impacted the world at that time. An incredible range of wax figures from all eras is on display, from Napoleon, Cleopatra and Christopher Columbus to modern day celebrities like Brad Pitt and Antonio Banderas. The museum is constantly updated with figures of the world old and new.
In other rooms, a collection of Spanish monarchs and Catholic leaders brings history to life. There is a section dedicated to children’s figures such as Snow White, the Simpsons, and Harry Potter. Those interested in a scarier experience will appreciate the ‘Terror Train’ journey through a dungeon of figures such as Dracula and Freddy Kruger. Beyond the wax figures, there is even a Simulator ride that takes visitors on a journey through modern space, and a telling of the History of Spain by an animatronic Emperor Charles I.
Practical Info
The Madrid Wax Museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 2:30 pm and 4:30 to 8:30 pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 10 am to 8:30 pm. Admission is 17 € for adults and 12 € for children. The nearest metro stop is Colón, or take the Cercanías to Madrid-Recoletos.
Address: Paseo de Recoletos, 41, Madrid 28004, Spain
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-2:30pm and 4:30-8:30pm, and Sat-Sun and public holidays 10am-8:30pm
Admission: Adults 17€; Children: 12€
From $ 24