Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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Parc de Montjuic
Overlooking southwest Barcelona, Parc de Montjuic is the city’s green hilltop getaway, packed with history and attractions, including the historic Jewish Cemetery, 17th-century Montjuic fortress, National Museum of Catalonian Art, Joan Miró Foundation, and the replica Spanish village known as Poble Espanyol.
The Basics
Offering an abundance of notable attractions, Parc de Montjuic is featured on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona. Guided tours focusing on Montjuic Mountain often include admission to the Montjuic Castle and Palau Sant Jordi, plus visits to the 1992 Olympic facilities and Plaça Espanya with its Magic Fountain. Guests visiting the park independently should note that while the park itself is free, many of its attractions charge a separate admission fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parc de Montjuic is a must-visit for art lovers, architecture and history buffs, and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and plan to do a lot of walking; the park is huge.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
To get to Montjuic, take the funicular to the Parc de Montjuic stop, where you can then catch the cable car gondola even farther up the hill to the castle. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is also another good option for getting around this part of town, allowing you to stop at the different attractions that interest you.
When to Get There
You could easily spend an entire day (or more) exploring Parc de Montjuic and still not see everything. Many of the museums and attractions are open during the day, while the most popular time to see the Magic Fountain at the base of Montjuic is at night during a light and sound show.
A Hill with History
Parc de Montjuic has been the site of several important chapters in Barcelona’s history. In 1929, the International Exposition triggered rapid development in and around Montjuic. During the Spanish Civil War, Montjuic Castle was used to imprison, torture, and execute political opponents of General Franco. Things took a brighter turn in 1992, when the Olympic Games came to Barcelona and the hill was chosen as the location for several sporting venues.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 12
Palma La Seu Cathedral
After King James I (Jaume 1) conquered the Balearic Islands in 1229, he began the conversion of a Moorish-era mosque in present-day Palma de Mallorca (Majorca) into a grand Catalan Gothic-style cathedral overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The golden sandstone façade, the city’s most notable landmark, took more than 400 years to complete.
The Basics
Towering Palma La Seu Cathedral looms large over the Mallorca seafront, built as a demonstration of the might of the Christian god for all arriving by sea. As the most prominent building in the island’s capital city of La Palma, it’s impossible to miss. Just about every city tour stops at the amazing structure and it’s also a stop on the Mallorca hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. While impressive enough by day, the building is at its most stunning at night when the stained-glass windows are illuminated from within and floodlights shine on the sandstone façade; see it on a night walking tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Palma cathedral is a must-see for all first-time visitors.
- If you plan to visit the cathedral terrace and bell tower, be sure to reserve your tour ahead of time.
- Choose between a basic Palma Cathedral entrance ticket or a private or small-group tour that includes entrance to the cathedral.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The cathedral is located near Parc de la Mar in an area serviced by public transportation, with several buses stopping within easy walking distance. It’s also possible to get to the cathedral by riding the double-decker sightseeing bus.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open for cultural visits daily except on certain public and religious holidays. Check the cathedral event calendar when you arrive, as it sometimes hosts free organ concerts in the evenings.
Antoni Gaudi and the Palma Cathedral
If you thought all of Gaudi’s works are in Barcelona, think again. The famous Catalan Modernist architect made some changes to the cathedral early in the 20th century, including the addition of a giant (and unfinished) crown-of-thorns canopy made from cork and cardboard hanging over the altar. Gaudíi also designed the wrought-iron candelabra ringing the cathedral’s columns.
Address: Plaça Almoïna, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Admission: Donations recommended
From $ 14
Palma Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor is Palma’s true epicenter. Others might claim the geographic center of the city to be located elsewhere, but it is from this large plaza that all the excitement of old-town Palma generates. There’s a saying in Palma that “all roads lead to Plaza Mayor” and if you’re taking a stroll through old town, you’ll sure find this to be true.
Enter the plaza and the first thing you’ll notice is its imposing size. The enormous square is surrounded by old Spanish buildings of the 14th century and once housed the offices of the Spanish inquisition. Today, this area is known as the artist’s quarter, so you’re bound to spot a few galleries highlighting some of the local talent. In addition, a weekly market is held in the square, and a variety of notable goods can be purchased from colourful vendors here.
Labyrinthine streets emanate out from Plaza Mayor and the cobbled walkways are known to be a confusing but enjoyable jaunt down winding streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and evening revelers. Costumed street performers and street musicians typically help fill the plaza in daylight and night-time hours and locals and tourists together can be seen enjoying evening cocktails and music in the plaza.
The Plaza Mayor is now one of Palma’s main attractions and few can contend that a visit to Palma without seeing the Plaza Mayor is a visit at all.
Enter the plaza and the first thing you’ll notice is its imposing size. The enormous square is surrounded by old Spanish buildings of the 14th century and once housed the offices of the Spanish inquisition. Today, this area is known as the artist’s quarter, so you’re bound to spot a few galleries highlighting some of the local talent. In addition, a weekly market is held in the square, and a variety of notable goods can be purchased from colourful vendors here.
Labyrinthine streets emanate out from Plaza Mayor and the cobbled walkways are known to be a confusing but enjoyable jaunt down winding streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and evening revelers. Costumed street performers and street musicians typically help fill the plaza in daylight and night-time hours and locals and tourists together can be seen enjoying evening cocktails and music in the plaza.
The Plaza Mayor is now one of Palma’s main attractions and few can contend that a visit to Palma without seeing the Plaza Mayor is a visit at all.
Practical Info
Plaza Mayor (Placa Mayor) is located at 07003 Palma de Mallorca, and lies directly between the Parc de la Estacion and the Palma Cathedral. Weekly Markets are held every Monday, Friday and Saturday mornings. The easiest way to find the Plaza is to South on Calle de San Miguel and continue South, past the Museo d’Art Espanyol Contemporani.
Address: Spain
From $ 21
Palau Sant Jordi
There are many reasons to head up to Montjuïc hill’s Olympic Ring, and Palau Sant Jordi is certainly one of them. Designed for the 1992 Olympics, the indoor stadium played host to events including gymnastics, handball, volleyball, as well as various competitions during the Paralympics.
On the outside the structure looks like a square spaceship of sorts, and on the inside it’s nothing but beautiful light that pours through the building’s famous window-checkered ceiling. Today the stadium — which can hold over 16,000 people — still hosts top sports competitions, as well as events, and high-profile concerts for artists ranging from U2 to Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna. Go there to see a show yourself, or simply to admire Palau Sant Jordi’s exterior as you explore the Olympic Ring and its other sights, including the Olympic Stadium and Esplanade.
Practical Info
Though easily reachable by public bus, hop-on hop-off bus, taxi, and even by foot (via the escalators accessed from Plaça Espanya), getting back from Palau Sant Jordi after a nighttime event can be a bit complicated. As such, be sure to develop your transportation plan in advance. Also note that this area is fairly isolated, with few food-and-drink options outside of the venue itself.
Address: Passeig Olímpic, 5-7, Barcelona, Catalonia 08038, Spain
From $ 57
Palma Cruise Port
Palma de Mallorca is one of the Mediterranean’s busiest ports, welcoming more than 1.7 million cruise ship passengers each year. As the gateway to the island of Mallorca and Spain's Balearic Islands, it’s a popular stop on Mediterranean cruises, with easy access to both Valencia and Barcelona.
The Basics
There’s plenty to see in Palma de Mallorca and the atmospheric Old Town harbor’s historic landmarks, including the Palma Cathedral (La Seu), the Royal Palace of La Almudaina (Palau de l’Almudaina), the old Banys Arabs bathhouse, and Bellver Castle. Popular shore excursions include boat cruises along the Mallorca coast, wine tasting in Serra de Tramuntana, or sightseeing in the Soller Valley and the villages of Valldemossa and Deia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Most shore excursions are half-day tours, leaving plenty of time to get back to your cruise ship.
- For a more flexible tour, opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Palma and explore at your own pace.
How to Get to Palma from the Palma Cruise Port
Most cruise ships dock at the Poniente and Paraires quays at the Estacion Maritima, around 3 miles (5 kilometers) southwest of the town center. Many cruise lines offer shuttle services into Palma, or else taxis can be found right outside the terminal. Some ships dock at Porto Pi, just west of the Estacion Maritima.
Port Information
The languages spoken in Mallorca are Spanish and Catalan, but many people speak English. The currency is the euro, and ATMs are easy to find. Be aware of the local custom of siesta—many shops and attractions may close between 12pm and 3pm.
Address: Moll Vell, 3, Palma, Mallorca 07012, Spain
From $ 14
Los Roques de García
A cluster of uniquely shaped rocks lying in the shadows of the notoriously volatile Teide volcano, Los Roques de García are among the top attractions of Tenerife’s UNESCO-listed Teide National Park. Formed by years of ancient volcanic activity, the pyroclastic rocks are best known for their impressive stature and peculiar shapes, some appearing to defy gravity and others taking on an otherworldly presence.
The most famous rocks include the ‘Roque Cinchado’, known as ‘God’s Finger’, now one of Tenerife’s most iconic landmarks, and the imposing La Catedral, the tallest at 200-meters high and a popular challenge for climbers. Each rock has its own unique moniker, including ‘El Queso’, ‘Roques Blancos’ and ‘Torrotito’, and the best way to enjoy the views is hiking the circular trail around the valley, which takes around 2 hours.
Practical Info
Los Roques de García are located in the Teide National Park in central Tenerife.
Address: Teide National Park, Tenerife, Spain
From $ 39
Papagayo Beach
One of a string of sandy beaches and bays lining Lanzarote’s southern coast, Papagayo Beach (Playa de Papagayo) lies within the Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches Natural Park and is largely regarded as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. A horseshoe-shaped bay cocooned between sea cliffs and blessed with swaths of pale gold sand, Papagayo is a top choice for swimming, snorkeling and water sports.
A visit to Papagayo Beach is easily combined with exploring the five neighboring beaches - Playa de Afe, Playa de Mujeres, Playa Pozo, Playa de Afe,] and Playa de la Cera – often collectively referred to as the ‘Papagayo beaches’. The beaches are linked by a coastal walk, which runs all the way from Punta Papagayo to Playa Blanca, and are famous for their fine sands, warm, clear waters and abundance of exotic fish.
Practical Info
Papagayo Beach is located on Lanzarote’s southern coast, just east of the resort town of Playa Blanca and can be reached by bike or car via a dirt track off the Playa Blanca - Femes road, or by boat from Playa Blanca. There is a surcharge of €3 for the use of the beach road and the beach has only basic amenities, so bring your own umbrellas, deck chairs and supplies. Also, be aware that many of the southern beaches are popular among nudists.
Address: Paagayo Beach, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Hours: Daily
Admission: There is a surcharge of €3 for the use of the beach road.
From $ 51
Museo Picasso Malaga
Museo Picasso Malaga, situated in the city of the master’s birth, showcases a collection of more than 200 pieces donated to the museum by Picasso’s family. While the Blue and Rose periods are missing, the collection highlights the artist’s personal side, with works he painted for his family or kept for himself.
The Basics
As one of Malaga’s best museums, Museo Picasso features on many sightseeing tours of the city, including guided day trips from Marbella. Those with a special interest in Pablo Picasso can opt for a private guided tour of the museum, which often includes a stop at the artist’s birthplace (Casa Natal), church, and school. Picasso’s first known painting is on display at the nearby Municipal Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-see for art lovers and history buffs.
- Bring along a light jacket as the exhibition rooms are kept quite cool.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible, and staff are available to help at the wheelchair access point.
- Photography and cellphone usage are both prohibited inside the exhibition rooms of the museum.
How to Get There
The Museo Picasso Malaga sits in the city’s historic center near the Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre. It’s easily accessible on foot, but you can also take the public bus to stops at either Paseo del Parque (Ayuntamiento) or Plaza de la Merced.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily throughout the year, with extended hours during July and August. If you’re visiting during the summer tourist season, plan to arrive first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Architecture and Archaeology
Palacio de Buenavista, the 16th-century building that houses the collection, features a mixture of Mudéjar and Renaissance elements. It was built atop the remains of what was believed to be a Nasrid Palace, where archaeological remains from Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish eras have been uncovered. Some of these remains are now a part of the museum’s permanent collection.
Address: Palacio de Buenavista c/ San Agustín, Málaga 8 29015, Spain
Hours: Open Tues - Thur 10am - 8pm; Fri and Sat 10am - 9pm; Sun and public holidays 10am - 8pm; Closed Mon.
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Parc del Forum
If you’re eager for views of the sea, lots of photo opportunities, and wide, open spaces, then head toward the northernmost coastline of Barcelona to the Parc del Forum. This architectural park of sorts was built in 2004 for the Universal Forum of Cultures, and continues to serve as a giant venue for events and exploration.
Though many of its attractions come and go — such as Primavera Sound, an annual music festival that takes place in June — the forum is always a worthy destination, beyond just checking out the architecture. Go there to visit the natural history-focused Museu Blau, which is situated in the park’s iconic triangular-shaped Forum Building; to take a dip in the Mediterranean from the sand-free, direct-to-the-water Forum marina and bathing area; or to let the kids burn off some energy at the seaside play area.
Practical Info
Though seemingly far away from Barcelona’s center, the park is easy to get to via the Metro (stop: Maresme-Fòrum), public buses, and, the most visitor-friendly option of all, the hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Address: Plaça del Fòrum, 1, Barcelona, Catalonia 08019, Spain
From $ 35
Los Hervideros
An extraordinary collage of rocks, caves and lava tubes looming over Lanzarote’s west coast, the coastal cliffs of Los Hervideros rank among the island’s most unusual geological attractions. Formed during the 18th-century eruptions of the Timanfaya volcanoes, the dramatic coastline is now adorned with sharp rock columns, oddly shaped archways and natural rock sculptures, created as the hot lava met with the icy waves.
While the unique landscape makes for some remarkable photo opportunities, the real highlight of visiting Los Hervideros is watching the waves crash against the coast. Looking out from the cliff top, visitors can witness the all-natural spectacle as the waves explode against the rocks and the water funnels through the spillways, sending spurts of sea water roaring into the air – a fitting example of how the cliffs got their name - Los Hervideros is Spanish for "boiling waters."
Practical Info
Hervideros is located between El Golfo and Salinas de Janubio on Lanzarote’s southwest coast. There is no admission charge.
Address: Los Hervideros, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Hours: Daily
From $ 29
Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)
A soaring, shimmering glass and concrete edifice in the Raval, Barcelona’s Museum of Contemporary Art was designed by US architect Richard Meier and completed in 1995, spearheading the once-tatty district’s revival. Its matt-white interior is flooded with natural light and creates the perfect backdrop for the museum’s 5,000 paintings, sculptures, images and conceptual pieces, which are shown in ever-changing temporary exhibitions running for between three and six months. Featuring avant-garde artists from the latter half of the 20th century, the collection is rich in international names such as Paul Klee, Dieter Roth and Jean-Michel Basquiat – among many others – but specializes in the works of celebrated Catalan artists including Antoni Tàpies, Miquel Barcelò, Susana Solano and Pere Jaume. The museum also has a library, a well-stocked bookshop and café as well as Saturday morning workshops for families visiting with young kids. The vast piazza leading to MACBA’s entrance is a popular meeting place for Barcelona residents and skateboarders congregate daily around the museum’s sleek ramp.
Practical Info
Plaça dels Angels 1. Open Mon, Wed–Fri 11am–7.30pm; Sat 10am–9pm; Sun 10am–3pm. Admission adults €10, seniors & students €6.5; under 14 free. Metro to Plaça de Catalunya or Universitat.
Address: Plaça dels Angels 1, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Varies by day
Admission: Adults: €10: Seniors/Students: €6.5; under 14 free
From $ 9
Park Genoves
While in Cadiz, a trip toward the sea can offer more than just pretty views. Indeed, if you go to the northwestern border of the island-like southern city, you’ll happen upon one of its favorite treasures, Park Genoves. Created in the 19th century, the seaside green getaway wasn’t always so green, though: it once went by the name of Parsley Promenade given its sparse vegetation. But these days the garden serves as a botanical wonderland filled with over 100 species of trees and shrubs.
Strolling down its paths lined by fancily manicured greenery, you can escape the city and catch glimpses of the sea. Children will appreciate the man-made lake, which features dinosaur statues poking out of its waters, and a waterfall, which can be climbed atop, or even explored below by walking through its grotto. Whether you wish to sip on a coffee at the garden’s café, or prefer to find a quiet bench to relax on in the shade, the park is an enjoyable Cadiz stop that is worth a wander.
Practical Info
Park Genoves is easily reachable by foot from the historic center. The main entrance is situated at the park’s southeastern corner, just steps away from the Parador Hotel. Free to access, the park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, and until 10:30 p.m during summertime.
Address: Avenida Doctor Gómez Ulla, Cadiz, Andalucia 11003, Spain
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-sunset; 8a.m.-10.30 p.m. during summer
From $ 53
River Maritime Museum (Museo Maritimo Ria)
Bilbao’s growth and its maritime history go hand in hand given the city’s 20th-century growth as one of Europe’s prominent port cities. The River Maritime Museum dives into this history, going deeper than just Bilbao’s seafaring past to also reveal the background of the port, the people that lived along the estuary, and how it all impacted the city’s evolution.
The museum is appropriately located along the dry docks of the old Euskalduna shipyard (built in 1900 and closed in 1984), a kid-friendly space that features both indoor and outdoor exhibitions. Inside, visitors can watch an intriguing video on Bilbao’s history, and spy model ships and boats, along with life-sized ones too, including a reproduction of the fancy wooden Consulate’s felucca. Then, outside, you can explore the dry docks, other exhibits, and walk along the estuary.
Practical Info
Note that the museum is free to enter on Tuesdays from September through June, and is closed on Mondays throughout the year. If you wish to explore more of the river, which leads north to the Bay of Biscay, there are sailing excursions that allow you to do so.
Address: Muelle Ramón de la Sota, 1, Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain 48011, Spain
Hours: Winter: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat, Sun and bank holidays: 10am-8pm. Summer: Tues-Sun 10am-8pm. The museum is closed on Mondays year round.
Admission: General: €6; Children: €3.5; Under six years old: Free
From $ 110
Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya
Plaça de Sant Jaume’s Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya is much more than just a building with a pretty neoclassical façade: this is the seat of the Catalan government, from where 100 presidents have governed. Constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries, the building is a symbol of Catalan perseverance, having stood the test of time through many historic challenges.
It’s not just special because of its history, either. Apart from the attractive dome-topped exterior, its interior is perhaps even more impressive. It features a Gothic chapel, elaborate ceremonial halls, loads of paintings and sculptures, and a sunlight-filled Courtyard of Orange Trees, or Pati dels Tarongers — among other Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance elements.
Practical Info
While the interior is considered by many to be the highlight of the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya, it is only open to the public the second and fourth weekends of the month (except in August). It is only visit-able via prescheduled guided tour (which lasts roughly an hour), so be sure to book online in advance via the Generalitat’s website.
Address: Plaça de Sant Jaume, 4, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
From $ 68
Palmeral de las Sorpresas
Lined with palm trees and with Malaga’s port as its backdrop, the Palmeral de las Sorpresas is a traditional Spanish public square with an especially modern design. Its fountains, chairs, and a playground create a recreational feel, and there’s a promenade along the waterfront that’s great for leisurely walks.
Its covered walkways have some of the most unique architecture in Spain (and that’s saying something!) They were designed to play with light and shadows in a way that changes depending on the time of day it’s visited. The Paseo de Pergolas leads down to the ships docked at the port (one of the oldest in the world,) shading from the often bright sun above.
Benches and quiet corners are intermingled with activity and play. You’ll find historical and modern design side-by-side. Surrounded by gardens with a tropical feel, it’s a beautiful public space that’s meant to be shared and enjoyed in peace.
Practical Info
From the Malaga port, it takes about twenty minutes to reach the city center via the Palmeral de las Sorpresas walkways. Open all hours of the day, small cafes and restaurants can be spotted throughout. Otherwise, there are plenty of free public spaces to stop and enjoy the surroundings.
Address: Muelle 2, Malaga, Andalucia 29015, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 23
Pals
Surrounded by walls and marked with winding cobblestone streets, medieval Pals still has many of its aged stone arches, walkways, and balconies. A Romanesque tower dates back to the 11th century, while the Mirador del Pedró provides a lookout over the sea and surrounding Catalonian landscape dotted with citrus groves and rice fields.
The Basics
The historical village of Pals ranks among the most picturesque destinations on Spain’s Costa Brava. Many travelers visit the town on a day trip from Barcelona, with itineraries that often include Girona, Peratallada, and the fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. Tours of the village nearly always include a visit to the Torre de las Hores (Tower of Hours) clock tower, as well as insight into the area’s medieval history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pals is a must-see for history buffs, couples, and travelers looking for a break from Barcelona.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you plan to visit the beach.
How to Get There
Because the nearest train station to Pals is in Girona, the easiest way to get to Pals from Barcelona is either to take a train to Girona and a bus to Pals or to take a bus directly from Barcelona to Pals. Another option is to rent a car and make the 90-minute drive yourself.
When to Get There
For warm beach-worthy weather without the summer crowds, head to Pals during the spring or autumn shoulder seasons. Plan to visit during the annual rice sowing or rice harvest festivals for a deeper cultural experience.
A Day at the Beach
Though Pals is not on the coast, it is close to one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava. During the summer months, head down to Platja Gran de Pals, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand lined with pine trees, to cool off in the waters of the Mediterranean.
Address: Pals, Costa Brava, Spain
From $ 208
Los Gigantes
Though El Teide may be Tenerife’s most popular sky-high sight — and rightly so — it’s not the only one you’ll want to check out while on the island. If you head to the western coastline, you won’t want to miss gaping at the massive cliff-lined coastline home to Los Gigantes. “The Giants” span a long stretch of the western shore, and reach up to more than 600 meters into the sky above the sea.
These geographical wonders are best viewed from their namesake village, a popular resort town that still manages to maintain an exclusive vibe, likely due to its lack of hotels (it only has one) and high-rise buildings. More precisely, though, you can best view the cliffs from various spots: the popular Archipenque Mirador, a roadside lookout on the way into town; from the marina-and-cliff-sandwiched, black-sanded beach; from the sea while partaking in one of the popular whale- and dolphin-watching excursions; or even from above during a helicopter tour.
Practical Info
Several public bus lines and tour buses make their way to Los Gigantes from neighboring cities. Note that if you come by car, parking can be difficult, especially since many of the town’s streets are narrow and one-way.
Address: Los Gigantes, Tenerife 38683, Spain
From $ 40
Palma Aquarium
The largest aquarium in Mallorca with over 55 tanks and more than 700 different marine species, Palma Aquarium is a sight to behold. Ocean habitats and ecosystems from around the world have been recreated from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans as well as the local Mediterranean Sea. Promoting eco-friendly practices and respect for marine life, the aquarium was built as a tribute to nature and remains unparalleled in many respects.
Visitors have the chance to see the largest shark tank in Europe (at 28 feet deep) as well as the largest live coral collection on the continent. The jellyfish and black-tip reef shark exhibits are remarkable. Some of the aquariums most magnificent marine species include octopuses, sea horses, grouper fish, wrasses, crabs, rays, and eels. Other exhibits include an interactive touch pool, an outside play area for children, a Mediterranean garden, and a tropical jungle, the largest of its kind in Spain.
Practical Info
The Palma Aquarium can be found in Playa la Palma on Mallorca, Spain. It is open daily year-round from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm with an entrance fee of 23 euros for adults and 14 euros for children. Two to three hours are recommended for a complete visit.
Address: Carrer de Manuela de los Herreros, 21, Palma, Illes Balears, Spain 07610, Spain
Admission: Adults: 23€; Children: 14€
From $ 25
Museu del Modernisme Catala
This small museum is the only one dedicated to displaying Catalan modernisme art. It was converted from a textile factory in 2010, and exhibits some of the finest pieces of art nouveau furniture constructed in Catalunya. Most of the collection comes from two antique dealers, who have added their private collection to be shared with the public. There are over 350 works of art across several mediums, with premier modernista artists like Ramón Casas, Joan Busquets, and of course, Antoni Gaudi. A range of everything from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts and furniture can be found. The museum has become a bit of a cultural center for the city, unique to showcasing this very specific type of art created right in Catalunya.
The museum is housed in a modernista building designed by architect Enric Sagnier, with original floors kept intact. Don’t miss Gaudi’s couch designed in the shape of lips, or the exquisite stained glass on the first floor.
Practical Info
The museum is located at Carrer de Balmes 48, with hours Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. The nearest metro station is Passeig de Gracia, and the entrance fee is 10 euro.
Address: Carrer de Balmes 48, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am - 8 pm, Sundays 10 am - 2 pm
Admission: 10 euro
From $ 12
Parc de la Ciutadella
Barcelona’s oldest and most popular park, Parc de la Ciutadella is a picturesque expanse of greenery with several attractions. Its landmark Arc de Triomf, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, serves as the monumental gateway to the park’s northern entrance, and the park is also home to a boating lake, the Barcelona Zoo, Catalan Parliament, two museums, and a much-celebrated series of sculptures.
The Basics
Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most popular attractions in the old city. Located just northeast of the city center, not far from the Barceloneta beach, the park is included in just about every small-group and private city tour. Options for tours that stop at Parc de la Ciutadella include walking, Segway, and cycling tours through the park and other points of interest, such as Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Port Olímpic.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.
- See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.
How to Get There
Parc de la Ciutadella is accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city or Barceloneta. To get there by public transportation, take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.
When to Get There
The park bustles with visitors and locals throughout the day, so there’s never a bad time to visit. Weekends offer the best people watching, as Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and exercise.
Gaudí at the Park
When architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre was commissioned to update the park in advance of the 1888 International Exhibition, a young Antoni Gaudí (an architecture student at the time) caught his eye. Gaudí is said to have designed some of the pipework and decorative medallions of the park’s monumental fountain.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 16