Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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Colonia Guell & Gaudi Crypt
Barcelona teems with modernist architecture, including several notable buildings by famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. Fans of this architectural style can immerse themselves in it with a short trip south to Colonia Güell, a modernist industrial village commissioned by Eusebi Güell and home to a Gaudi-designed crypt.
The Basics
Colonia Güell, the largest modernist colony in Catalonia, no longer houses textile workers. Today, the red-brick complex attracts visitors who come to take a step back into its 19th-century atmosphere.
Travelers can choose between a basic entrance ticket (including Gaudi’s Crypt) or opt for a combo ticket with included round-trip transportation from Barcelona. Both include an audio guide in English. Visitors pressed for time can combine a visit to Colonia Güell with a tour of Montserrat in a single day trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Colonia Güell and Gaudi’s Crypt are a must-see for architecture buffs.
- Consider booking your tickets ahead of time to save time queuing up at the ticket office.
- Wi-Fi and restrooms are available in the Visitors’ Center.
- Colonia Güell and the crypt are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The colony is located about 20 minutes south of Barcelona. To get there by train, take line S4 from Plaça d’Espanya. After exiting the station, blue steps on the floor lead to the Visitors’ Center.
When to Get There
Colonia Güell is open daily throughout the year, with reduced hours during the winter season (January to April).
Colonia Güell and La Sagrada Familia
As the village for Güell’s textile workers was being designed, Antoni Gaudi was tasked with building the colony’s church. It broke ground in 1908. After only eight years, though, enthusiasm for the project fizzled with only the crypt completed. Many experts believe that Gaudi’s work on the crypt was a prototype for what would become his magnum opus, the Sagrada Familia.
Address: Calle Claudi Guell, 6, Santa Coloma de Cervello, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Aqua Natura
Suited for young families and with plenty of opportunities to play and relax in both the sun and shade, Aqua Natura is one of Spain’s best coastal water resorts. Its fun water activities and various pools are grouped around a large, calm lagoon at its center, which is perfect for all ages. There are also 800 meters of twisted slides (some that are multi-lane,) as well as a splash zone, water bridge, and pirate-themed water playground for smaller children. Its most massive slide, ‘La Cresta,’ reaches the highest speeds and is most suited to thrill seekers.
Aqua Natura also allows for the opportunity to interact with aquatic wildlife, offering encounters with the sea lions on site. Regardless of your thrill level, the park is a great place to cool off after time spent in the hot Spanish sun. There are also four restaurants inside serving a variety of food and drink.
Practical Info
Aqua Natura is the water park next to the Terra Natura animal park. Located in the popular Benidorm resort area, it’s a short 40 minute drive from Alicante airport to reach the parks. Aqua Natura is only open during the summer months. Admission is €29 for adults and €23.50 for children ages 12 and under. It is open daily from 10:30 am to 7 pm.
Address: Ctra. de Vidreres, Km 1,2, 17310 Lloret de Mar, Girona, Spain Foia del Verdader, 1, 03502 Benidorm, Alicante, Spain
Hours: Daily from 10:30 am to 7 pm
Admission: €29 for adults, €23.50 for children ages 12 and under
From $ 36
Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitucion)
Malaga’s largest and most iconic public square, the Plaza de la Constitution holds significance in both the city’s past and present. Serving as a public space since the 15th century, it remains an important center of Malaga daily life today. Palm trees sit beside historic Spanish architecture surrounding the fountain Fuente de Génova. Lined with alleyways full of small shops and cafes, it is a largely pedestrian area that’s great for exploring the city’s history.
The square was home to Malaga’s city hall until the 19th century, having since been renamed from Plaza de Cuatro Calles (four streets) and the Plaza Mayor. Once the home of festivals, celebrations, and even bullfights, it is now a central meeting spot for residents of the city. Cultural, political, and religious events still take place here throughout the year, including the impressive Semana Santa processions and festivities.
It is considered to be the heart of Malaga’s historical quarter and a must-see while in the city.
Practical Info
Located in the center of Malaga, the square can be approached via the historic Calle Larios. It is open all hours of the day and best explored on foot.
Address: Plaza de la Constitucion, Malaga, Andalucia, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 17
Gaudí House Museum
The Gaudí House Museum (Casa Museu Gaudí) was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí for the last 20 years of his life. It was opened to the public as a museum in 1952 to celebrate the centennial of his birth year. The artist designed pieces of furniture that fill the house, and walls are covered with his drawings and other original artwork.
The Basics
Exhibits within the intimate museum tell the story of the architect’s private and religious life through his original furnishings and personal effects. The Gaudí House Museum sits within the free access area of Park Güell but requires its own admission ticket, which includes an assigned entrance time. Entrance to the house can be combined with skip-the-line access to the Park Güell monumental area on a guided walking tour of the area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Gaudí House Museum is a must-visit for architecture buffs and art lovers.
- Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed within the house or garden.
- The ground floor and garden are both wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the Gaudí House Museum is to take the Barcelona Metro (Line 3) to Lesseps station and follow the signs to Park Güell. Several public buses also stop near the Carrer d’Olot and Carretera del Carmel entrances.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily throughout the year (including holidays) though hours are limited during the low season from October to March. If you’re visiting during the summer months, plan to arrive first thing in the morning to beat the queues.
Park Güell
Catalan industrialist Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi envisioned Park Güell as a private residential development, and he hired Antoni Gaudí to design it. The plan included houses, as well as a public square, market, and chapel. Construction began in 1900, but only two of the 60 planned houses were built.
Address: Parc Güell, Carrer d'Olot 7, Zona Alta, Barcelona, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Getaria
Surrounded by two beaches on either side, it seems impossible not to slow down and enjoy the peaceful pace of this coastal Basque town. Take in the ocean views from the waterfront and from up the hills, taste freshly caught fish from the bay, or stroll through the well-preserved old town. The area is also known for its local white wine txakoli and the vineyards that produce it, which are easy to explore nearby.
Of course it would be remiss not to mention the beach town’s most famous resident — fashion icon Cristóbal Balenciaga, and there is a museum here devoted to his work. There is also a small peninsula close to the fishing port that ends at San Antón Mountain, and it is affectionately called Ratón de Getaria (“mouse of Getaria”) for its unique shape. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and the coastline.
Practical Info
Getaria is situated on the Bay of Biscay, about 25 kilometers west of San Sebastian. There is a bus from San Sebastian’s main station, heading to Zumaia.
Address: Getaria, Gipuzkoa, Spain, Spain
From $ 87
Corralejo Dunes Natural Park
The Canary Islands sit just 70 miles (113 kilometers) off the coast of western Africa. But the 6,425 acres (2,600 hectares) of rolling sand dunes within Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Dunes National Park might have you thinking you’re visiting the African continent as opposed to a beach-filled archipelago.
The Basics
In addition to housing the biggest and best dunes in the Canary Islands, Corralejo Dunes National Park also boasts a rugged and dramatic volcanic landscape, dominated by red jagged rock formations and Montaña Roja (Red Mountain) volcano. Day trips to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote often include time at the national park for exploring the beaches and dunes, as well as visits to the hamlet of Betancuria, Church of Our Lady of Regla, and the town of Corralejo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Corralejo Dunes National Park is a must-visit for adventure travelers and sun seekers.
- Be mindful when swimming at the park beaches—there are no lifeguards on duty and currents can be strong.
- Bring a towel, bathing suit, sun protection, and water to enjoy the park’s beaches.
- Wear comfortable hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore the park’s volcanic landscapes.
- Day trips from Lanzarote can last upwards of 10 hours depending on the option chosen.
How to Get There
The national park lies just off the FV-1 road between Puerto del Rosario and the town of Corralejo. If you’re staying on neighboring Lanzarote, the easiest way to reach the park is via ferry from Playa Blanca to Corralejo or by joining a guided tour.
When to Get There
Fuerteventura is hot and sunny throughout the year, making the national park’s beautiful beaches appealing no matter the season. If you plan to do some hiking in the park, plan to visit between April and June or October, when temperatures are slightly cooler.
What’s in the Sand?
Though the undulating fine white sands of the Fuerteventura dunes are surely reminiscent of the desert, the granules in Corralejo Dunes Natural Park are in fact actually made up of tiny little pieces of shell and mollusk, as opposed to anything rocky.
Address: Fuerteventura, Spain
From $ 17
Aqualava Waterpark Relaxia
The design of Lanzarote’s Aqualava water park pays tribute to the island’s volcanic landscape with its geothermal-heated pools. The saltwater wave pool (the only on the island) gives the feel of the beach, while the smaller kids' areas are perfectly themed for play. There's a winding lazy river, as well as five waterslides.
The Basics
Aqualava water park is one of the island’s most popular spots to cool down on those hot island afternoons, especially during the summer. The cost of admission includes access to all the park’s attractions, inner tubes, umbrellas, and sunbeds, as well as facilities for showering and changing. Choose between a basic entrance ticket, or upgrade for convenient round-trip transportation from your Lanzarote hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Aqualava Waterpark Relaxia is a must-visit for families traveling with kids.
- Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- The water park offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, as well as showers, lockers, and free Wi-Fi.
- Leave your jewelry and accessories at home; they’re not permitted on the park’s slides.
How to Get There
Aqualava Waterpark is located in Playa Blanca on the south of Lanzarote. The park provides free transfer from Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise on select days of the week. You can also catch a public bus from Puerto del Carmen (161 or 61), Arrecife (60), Costa Teguise (01 and 03), or from within Playa Blanca (30).
When to Get There
The water park is open throughout the year, but the cooling water features are perhaps most refreshing during the summer months, when highs reach about 85°F (29°C). Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the park closes during bad weather.
Things to Do in Playa Blanca
If you’re in Playa Blanca to enjoy the water park, stick around to check out some of the town’s other attractions. You’ll find a range of restaurants, shops, and bars along the Playa Blanca boardwalk, while the port area is home to a new shopping center. Dorada and Flamingo beaches both lie within walking distance, and the stunning white coves of Papagayo are a short car ride away.
Address: C/ Gran Canaria, 26, 35580 Playa Blanca, Yaiza, Lanzarote, Spain
Hours: Daily from 10 am - 6 pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Generalife Gardens
The 13th-century Generalife served as a summer retreat for Nasrid kings when they needed a break from palace affairs. From its perch on Cerro del Sol (Hill of the Sun), the series of terraces, promenades, and gardens spread across 74 landscaped acres (30 hectares) of the Alhambra complex afford some of the best views over Granada.
The Basics
Entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Generalife Gardens is included in your entrance ticket to the Alhambra, but you can also purchase a separate ticket for the gardens only. Since the complex ranks as one of the most-visited attractions in Andalucia, it’s a good idea to book a skip-the-line tour—small-group or private—of both the Alhambra and Generalife ahead of time to avoid disappointment. It’s also possible to see both attractions on a guided day trip from Seville, Roquetas de Mar, or Malaga.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Generalife Gardens are a must-visit for all first-time visitors to Granada.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do quite a bit of walking.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection, as southern Spain can get very hot.
- Strollers are not permitted on the grounds of the Generalife, so plan to bring a baby carrier if needed.
- The Generalife Gardens are mostly wheelchair accessible, and there are modified tours that cater to—and include—wheelchairs.
How to Get There
You can walk to the Alhambra and Generalife from Granada city center, but be prepared for a bit of an incline. If you’d rather save your legs for exploring, opt for a bus or taxi. Most guided tours include round-trip transportation from Granada hotels.
When to Get There
The Generalife Gardens are open daily throughout the year for daytime visits, and for evening visits between March and November. Be sure to book your tickets (which are timed) well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak summer season. It’s a good idea to arrive at the grounds well in advance of your ticket time.
Visiting the Generalife, Nasrid Palace, and Alcazaba
The Alhambra complex is divided into three sections, all accessed with the same ticket. As you plan your tour of the palace, keep in mind that you can visit the Alcazaba and Generalife Gardens at any point during your visit to the complex, but entrance to the Nasrid Palace is for a set time.
Address: Granada, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Columbus Monument
Some shorelines have lighthouses; Barcelona has the Columbus Monument. Standing 197 feet tall — the top 24 feet of which make up the statue of Columbus himself — the tower is quite hard to miss, especially given its prominent position at the end of Las Ramblas, and along the marina.The monument of Columbus (Colom in Catalan, or Colón in Spanish) was erected in 1888 for the Universal Exposition and in honor of the famous explorer, who returned here after his first expedition to the Americas. Much discussion is made of where he is pointing: some have thought he points to the New World, while others say he points east to his supposed home of Genoa — in reality, however, it seems he points southeast and therefore to nothing in particular but the sea, where he was probably most at home. On your visit here, admire the grand statue from below, or get a look at Columbus’s bird’s-eye view by taking the elevator up to the lookout platform.
Practical Info
The Columbus Monument is easily reachable from the tourist center, and also easily findable given its size and location (at the end of Las Ramblas). Note that the not-so-noticeable elevator only fits a few people at a time, as does the lookout, so those that don’t like tight spaces may wish to skip the visit to the viewing platform.
Address: Plaza Portal de la Pau, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
Hours: March-September: 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; October-February: 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Admission: General: €6; children, and those over 65: €4
From $ 7
Collserola Tower (Torre de Collserola)
Rising high from the top of the tallest mountain in Barcelona, the Collserola Tower’s unique design has made its mark on the city’s skyline. Built for the 1992 Summer Olympics, at 288 meters high (946 feet) it is used as a radio and TV transmitter that broadcasts throughout Catalonia. Outside of its functional use, it has an observation deck with some of the best views of the surrounding city, mountains, and sea. From its windows you have 360 degree views from the highest vantage point in all of Barcelona.
The tower appears futuristic, almost like a needle pointing toward the sky. It takes two and half minutes to reach the observation deck, but you’ll be rewarded with views that can reach as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day. The experience is almost like seeing Barcelona from the sky. (Helicopter tours are really the only way to get a better view.)
Practical Info
The tower is located in the Tibidado mountain part of Barcelona, which is accessible via the funicular. To get to the observation deck, take the lift to the 10th floor which is open to the public on weekends. Admission is €6 for adults and €4 for children.
Address: Ctra. de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Weekends from 12–1:45PM, 3:30–7:45PM
Admission: €6 for adults, €4 for children
From $ 185
Aranjuez
In the 16th century the royals of Spain liked to take their holidays in Aranjuez, 29 miles (48km) from Madrid. Phillip II developed a small holiday lodge into a magnificent palace, which was given its final majestic appearance by Charles III.
The most striking features of the Palacio Real de Aranjuez (Royal Palace in Aranjuez) are the red and white façade, the Rococo staircase and the Porcelain Room which has walls lined with porcelain.
The gardens are world-famous and include the Museo de Faluas Reales (Museum of the Royal Barges); in which you can see how King Charles IV and King Ferdinand VII of Spain traveled as well as maritime instruments and paintings. The whole complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the nicest ways to reach the palace is on The Strawberry Train. Departing for the first time in 1851, this was only the second railway in Spain. You can ride the restored train, complete with fresh strawberries to eat, from Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on weekends from May to June and September to November.
The most striking features of the Palacio Real de Aranjuez (Royal Palace in Aranjuez) are the red and white façade, the Rococo staircase and the Porcelain Room which has walls lined with porcelain.
The gardens are world-famous and include the Museo de Faluas Reales (Museum of the Royal Barges); in which you can see how King Charles IV and King Ferdinand VII of Spain traveled as well as maritime instruments and paintings. The whole complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the nicest ways to reach the palace is on The Strawberry Train. Departing for the first time in 1851, this was only the second railway in Spain. You can ride the restored train, complete with fresh strawberries to eat, from Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on weekends from May to June and September to November.
Address: Spain
From $ 67
Coll Baix Beach (Playa Coll Baix)
The island of Mallorca is known for its turquoise waters and scenic natural beauty, and Coll Baix Beach is no exception to this. What makes this secluded beach special, aside from its idyllic surroundings, is the fact that it is protected and often deserted. Because it is difficult to reach, crowds are nearly nonexistent and you may even have the beach to yourself.
Opening out into a wide sea inlet, the soft and sandy beach is surrounded by tall, rocky cliffs and Mediterranean forest. It is hard to imagine clearer or more vibrantly colored waters. The stunning beach is most popular with those who love the outdoors and don’t mind some hiking — as it is only accessible by boat or foot. Those who go will undoubtedly agree that the trek is worth it. Boat operators often lead tours from town. It’s quietest in the morning and evening.
Practical Info
Coll Baix is located on the northern coast of the island, about seven kilometers from Alcúdia old town. The best way to get there is with a car — you’ll drive the Cami del Mal Pas out of town. Once you reach the closest part by car, it’s about five rocky kilometers on foot before you reach the beach. Though its off-shore waters are relatively shallow, you’ll want to take care when swimming as there is no lifeguard on duty.
Address: Platja des Coll Baix, Balearic Islands 07400, Spain
Hours: Open 24 hours
From $ 250
General Archive of the Indies (Archivo General de Indias)
There was a time after Spain’s first journeys to the Americas that Seville
served as one of the most important commercial cities and ports in Europe. For that reason, in 1572, this Renaissance-style building — now called the General Archive of the Indies — was erected, with the goal of serving as a merchant’s exchange.
Come 1785, when Seville’s role as a trade hub fizzled out, the grand building was finally converted into a space meant to unify all the country’s documentation related to its overseas empires in the Americas. These days, this includes 9 kilometers of shelving with over 43,000 volumes and 80 million pages, and is composed of documents such as exchanges between Christopher Columbus and the Spanish King and Queen, as well as other writings by explorers. Though the extent of what visitors can actually view is quite limited, entrance to the building is free, and therefore worth a quick wander, especially since it’s located right next to the main cathedral.
Practical Info
The General Archive of the Indies is situated in a stunning building just opposite the main cathedral and is therefore easy to visit while touring Seville. Much of its exhibits are in Spanish, so you may wish to make this stop on a guided tour in order to better understand the space.
Address: Avenida de la Constitución, 3 (Edificio de la Lonja), Seville, Andalucia 41071, Spain
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays and holidays: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
From $ 35
Collserola Natural Park (Parc de Collserola)
Named for the Catalan coastal mountain range Serra de Collserola, the Parc de Collserola isn’t far from the city of Barcelona — yet it remains relatively unknown to most tourists. Covering nearly 20,000 acres of wild land and with thousands of plant and animal species, it’s the largest metropolitan park in the world.
Its forests are extremely biodiverse and rich with wildlife, and the park’s lands are protected for this reason. Squirrels, foxes, and wild boar are a few of the commonly spotted species. Popular activities inside the park include hiking, cycling, jogging, and birdwatching; natural paths and trails weave throughout.
From most any viewpoint the park’s largest mountain Tibidado can be seen (which can be also accessed by funicular from the city.) Mount Tibidado has some of the best panoramic views in all of Barcelona. There are restaurants, farmhouses, and even small churches located throughout, and grilling at a barbecue is a common weekend activity for locals. The park is a great place to get in touch with nature without going far from the city, and tours to the area run from the city center.
Practical Info
It takes about 20 minutes to get to Collserola from the center of Barcelona by car, but you can also hike or bike up to the entrance in about one hour. Or you access the park via public transportation using the Baixador de Vallvidrera train stop. There is a visitor information center that’s worth visiting to get your bearings. The park’s facilities are open daily from 9:30 am to 3 pm.
Address: Ctra. de l'Esglesia 92, Barcelona41.442534, 2.101564, Spain
Hours: 9:30am-3pm
From $ 16
Gaudí Experience
At the Gaudí Experience, visitors learn more about the life and works of Barcelona’s favorite son through a series of interactive touchscreens, unpublished models, and a 4D film that takes you through the city streets to some of the Catalan architect’s most enduring masterpieces. Kids have their own area to explore Gaudí’s architecture.
The Basics
While you can get to know Antoni Gaudí by seeing his works in person, the imaginative Gaudí Experience offers valuable context for a visit to Barcelona. Choose between a basic admission ticket to the 4D theater, or combine admission with a visit to Gaudí’s Crypt at the Colonia Güell workers’ village. The large multimedia area within the Gaudí Experience is free and open to the public.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Gaudí Experience is a must for architecture buffs and families traveling with kids.
- Because the 4D movie has no narration, it’s suitable for visitors no matter what language they speak.
- The facility is accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The Gaudí Experience is located steps away from Park Güell. The easiest way to get there is to take the Metro to Lesseps or Vallcarca, or ride the Barcelona hop-on hop-off bus to Park Güell.
When to Get There
The Gaudí Experience is open daily throughout the year, with reduced hours from October through May. The 4D film is screened throughout the day, with the last showing 30 minutes before closing time. Try to visit early to get an overview of Gaudí’s works. It’s also a good option while waiting for your entrance time at the Park Güell monument area.
A Day of Gaudí
You really shouldn’t leave Barcelona without visiting some of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, and there are several of them. If you only have time to visit one, make it the towering Sagrada Familia cathedral. The panoramic views and colorful tile work of Park Güell are a hit with travelers, and those with a special interest in architecture will appreciate the details of Gaudí’s two residential buildings, Casa Batllo and La Pedrera (Casa Mila).
Address: Calle Larrard 41, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain 08024, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Aqualand Costa Adeje
Part waterpark, part amusement park, Aqualand Costa Adeje is popular among families for its variety of rides and attractions. Thrill-seekers can choose from half a dozen waterslides, including a six-lane mat racer, a high-speed body slide, and a funnel slide, while the Kidzworld area features pint-sized attractions that include a wading pool and water castle. The park's giant Jacuzzi tub, heated wave pool, and lazy river offer options for relaxation that are favorites among guests of all ages.
The park's Dolphinarium, home to a pod of bottlenose dolphins, runs one of the most successful breeding and conservation programs in Europe, in which a therapy program offers aid to disabled young sea mammals and onsite biologists study dolphin acoustics between mothers and babies. Be sure to check out the dolphinarium museum to learn about the history, physiology, characteristics, and habitats of the bottlenose dolphin.
Practical Info
Aqualand is located in Tenerife near the Playa de las Americas. To get there, take TF 1 motorway (Autopista) to Junction 29, or take the free daily shuttle bus from Playa de las Americas or Los Cristianos. Height restrictions exist for some of the largest water rides.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, dolphin swims are available for purchase at the park for an additional fee.
Address: Avenida de Austria, 15, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands 38660, Spain
Hours: Sept–June 10am–5pm; July–Aug 10am–6pm
Admission: Adult €25, child €17.50
From $ 32
Cordoba Synagogue
Located in the heart of Córdoba's Jewish Quarter, and just blocks away from the Mezquita, sits one of Spain's most unique connections to the past: the Synagogue of Córdoba.
Constructed in the 14th century, Córdoba's synagogue is the Judería's (Jewish Quarter's) main attraction and is one-of-a-kind in the Andalucía region. This is because, while the Jewish community once played a very key role on the Iberian Peninsula -- especially during the Moorish Caliphate -- much of Jewish culture was eradicated and expelled in 1492 during the Spanish Inquisition. As a result, Córdoba's synagogue and two others in the city of Toledo remain as the only lasting structures of their kind from pre-Inquisition Spain.
The small Córdoba synagogue houses a courtyard, prayer room and women's gallery. With a humble brick exterior, the small interior features walls with intricate Hebrew inscriptions, scalloped archways and Mudéjar plasterwork, reminiscent of the ivory-colored carvings you might see in the Alcázar of Seville or even the textured facades of the Alhambra Palace.
After serving as a place of worship (which ended, of course, with the Spanish Inquisition), the once-synagogue had various functions: from that of a hospital to a chapel and even a school. Now, it is open to the public as a museum, providing a rare look into the Jewish culture's presence in Spanish history.
Practical Info:
The synagogue is open every day of the week except Mondays, and is free to enter for European citizens, and only €0.30 for everyone else. It’s quite small, and located near the Grand Mosque; therefore worth the quick visit.
Address: Calle de los Judíos, 20, 14004, Cordoba, Spain
Hours: Tues-Sat: 9:30am-2pm and 3:30-5:30pm; Sun/Holiday: 9:30am-5:30pm
Admission: General: €0.30, EU members: free
From $ 40
Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga)
This scenic mountain range on Tenerife is the oldest natural spot on the island. Formed more than 7 million years ago by volcanic activity, today the mountains welcome hikers from around the world. The recognized biosphere reserve and protected park is one of the most biodiverse forests in all of Europe.
The mountains are remote and known for their wilderness. There are many native plant species unique to the area. Several paths wind throughout, all reaching different viewpoints and parts of the forest. The coastline is particularly beautiful from many of the hiking trails as you go higher up. Small streams and pools add to the scenery along the way.
Many small, isolated villages with limited access also exist along the mountain, as do archaeological sites that have discovered the remains of ancient settlers here. Guided walks and tours to the small villages are what most visitors will do on the mountain. The range’s highest point is Cruz de Taborno, at just over 1,000 meters tall.
Practical Info
The Anaga Mountains stretch from Cruz del Carmen on the northern peninsular to Punta de Anaga in the northeast. Two of the best known villages, San Andres and Taganana, provide the most access to the surrounding lands.
Address: Macizo de Anaga, Tenerife, Spain, Tenerife, Spain
From $ 34
CosmoCaixa Barcelona
With its unique, modern design and interactive exhibits, the CosmoCaixa is frequently recognized as one of the best science museums in Europe. With hands-on displays and activities for both children and adults, the museum explores the earth through environmental and natural exhibits and the skies through its large, 3-D planetarium. There are educational experiments set up throughout, incorporating the senses of touch, smell, and sight.
Visitors enter the museum space (one of the largest in Spain) down an impressive five story winding staircase that ends at an Amazonian tree standing 30 meters tall. One of the most notable exhibits is the “Flooded Forest,” a replica of a tropical rain forest ecosystem in the Amazon with over 1,000 species present. The Geological Wall features cuts of rock formations from around Spain, and topics like evolution, intelligence, and physics can be explored in the Hall of Matter.
Practical Info
The CosmoCaixa museum is located at Calle Isaac Newton 26. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. It is closed on Mondays. The nearest metro stop is Avinguda del Tibidabo or alternatively, buses 60, 73, 123 and 196 will take you there. Admission is €4 for adults and is free for children under 16 years old.
Address: Calle Isaac Newton 26, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm
Admission: €4
From $ 52
Cordoba Jewish Quarter
Sprinkled across the Spanish Peninsula, you'll come across Jewish Quarters known as juderías. In Córdoba, which was once considered the most populous city in the world, the Jewish community especially thrived, and now its ancient neighborhood of white buildings is considered one of the most famous juderías in Spain.
The Jewish community indeed played an important role culturally in the history of the Iberian Peninsula. During the Moorish Caliphate -- the period of Islamic rule over Spain which ended in 1031 -- the Jewish community flourished as Córdoba rose as a center for commerce, prosperity, education and religious tolerance.
Of course, in 1492 during the Spanish Inquisition, people of Jewish faith and the religion itself were expelled from Spain, their neighborhoods becoming only artifacts of their presence in the country's history. Among Córboba's Jewish Quarter's most famous sites is undoubtedly the synagogue, one of just three of its kind in Spain that survived the Inquisition (the other two are located in the city of Toledo), and the only one in all of Andalucia.
Also located in the barrio's small streets is Casa Sefarad, a cultural project dedicated to telling the story of Judeo-Spanish history in Spain. Within its walls, you can visit five different rooms, featuring Sephardic music, handicrafts and other cultural artifacts.
While wandering the small streets, keep an eye out for the statue of Maimónides, the famous Jewish doctor and philosopher, and peruse the jewelry and silversmith shops, for which the neighborhood is renowned.
Practical Info:
The Jewish Quarter is situated just to the north and west of the Mezquita, reaching as far west as Puerta de Almodóvar, and east to Calle El Rey Heredia.
Address: Barrio Judío 14001, Cordoba, Spain
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