Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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Cactus Gardens (Jardin de Cactus)
Cactus gets its due respect at this wildly prickly Lanzarote garden, which was inaugurated in 1990. The Jardín de Cactus is the final brainchild of beloved island native César Manrique, the painter, sculptor and architect whose work famously balanced both art and nature. The cactarium, which occupies a former quarry, is home to 7,200 cactus plants and 1,100 different species, all originating from far-off places such as the Americas and Africa.
While there, you can wander the various levels of the amphitheater-shaped garden by traversing its many paths, all lined by peculiar rock formations, various water features and of course, the thorny plants themselves. Spy the giant Don Quijote-style windmill that tops the garden, then take a garden-break by visiting the artisanal goods-filled shop, or by grabbing a bite to eat at the restaurant and terrace.
Practical Info
The best way to get to the Cactus Gardens is by car. Located in the northeastern Lanzarote town of Gautiza and surrounded more or less by agricultural land, the gardens are identifiable from the main road thanks to a giant eight-meter-tall cactus. To take advantage of optimal lighting and to encounter fewer crowds, plan to make your visit during the afternoon.
Address: Carretera General del Norte, s/n Guatiza, Lanzarote, Spain
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 5,50 Euros; Children 7-12: 2,75 Euros
From $ 73
Dalí Theatre-Museum
The small coastal town of Figueres, just north of Barcelona, is known for one thing: Salvador Dalí. Though the artist's fame brought him to more glamorous parts of Spain, Dalí eventually returned to his hometown of Figueres to build his greatest masterpiece, the Dalí Theatre–Museum. Located in the town's former Municipal Theatre, the site is a work of art in itself. Since this quirky museum was designed by Dalí to showcase his paintings, it offers insight into his imagination with a maze of his works displayed according to his own strange tastes. The museum also houses his crypt and grave.
The Basics
One of the best ways to see the museum, especially for those with limited time, is on a guided day trip from Barcelona, which usually allows for one to two hours of museum exploration. Day trips can also include visits to nearby Girona or two other Dalí attractions—Gala–Dalí Castle (Pubol Castle) and the Salvador Dalí House–Museum at Portlligat—along Spain's Costa Brava.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dalí Museum is a must-see for art lovers.
- Tours from Barcelona to the museum and surrounding area can last upwards of 11 hours.
- Bring some one euro coins to activate several interactive exhibits within the museum.
- The museum's central courtyard, stage, ground floor, and under-stage area (the site of Dalí's crypt) are all accessible by wheelchair.
How to Get to the Dalí Museum
Figueres is located 87 miles (140 km) northeast of Barcelona. A guided day trip with roundtrip transport is the easiest and most convenient way to visit the museum from the city, but travelers can also visit independently by taking a 55-minute high-speed train ride from Barcelona Sants station to Figueres Vilafant. From the train station, it's a 15-minute walk (or short taxi ride) to the museum. The nearest commercial airport is in Girona, 27 miles (43 km) to the south.
When to Get There
Although opening and closing hours vary slightly, the museum is generally open from about 10am to 6pm daily. Due to its popularity as a day trip destination from Barcelona, the museum can get crowded during peak tourist season in July and August. It quiets down from October to April, and the cooler temperatures make exploring Figueres more pleasant as well. To avoid crowds, plan to visit first thing in the morning or in late afternoon, a couple of hours before the museum closes.
The Dalí Jewels
The Dalí-Joies exhibit, included in the price of admission, occupies two floors of the museum annex. Inside are 39 pieces of jewelry made from gold and precious stones, as well as concept drawings made by Dalí between 1941 and 1970. It’s well worth setting aside an extra 30 to 40 minutes to tour this secondary collection.
Address: Gala-Salvador Dalí Square, 5, Figueres, Costa Brava, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 80
Cybele's Fountain (Fuente de la Cibeles)
Madrid’s most memorable statue is Cybele’s Fountain, or Fuente de la Cibeles, depicting the Greek goddess of fertility, Cybele, being pulled by two lions on a chariot. Designed by architect Ventura Rodriguez for King Carlos III in 1782, the white marble monument stands encircled by water in the center of the historic Plaza de Cibeles.
Once providing water to local residents, the fountain is now merely decorative, doubling up as a popular meeting point for locals. Real Madrid’s football fans, in particular, have adopted the spot for post-game celebrations. Its job as a water source might be redundant but Cybele’s Fountain is still one of the most prominent symbols of Madrid and if you look closely, you’ll see the 8-meter-tall goddess not only holds a scepter but also a set of keys – said to be the keys to the city. Perhaps most aesthetically pleasing is the fountain’s striking surroundings – a backdrop that includes the 18th century Palacio de Buenavista, the 19th century Palacio de Linares, the grand Bank of Spain and the exquisite Palacio de Comunicaciones (the City Hall).
Once providing water to local residents, the fountain is now merely decorative, doubling up as a popular meeting point for locals. Real Madrid’s football fans, in particular, have adopted the spot for post-game celebrations. Its job as a water source might be redundant but Cybele’s Fountain is still one of the most prominent symbols of Madrid and if you look closely, you’ll see the 8-meter-tall goddess not only holds a scepter but also a set of keys – said to be the keys to the city. Perhaps most aesthetically pleasing is the fountain’s striking surroundings – a backdrop that includes the 18th century Palacio de Buenavista, the 19th century Palacio de Linares, the grand Bank of Spain and the exquisite Palacio de Comunicaciones (the City Hall).
Address: Plaza Cibeles, 28014 Madrid, Spain
From $ 16
França Railway Station (Estació de Franca)
Though Barcelona’s Sants Station gets the most train and foot traffic, the city’s França Railway Station wins when it comes to overall style. Considered by many to be the most beautiful station in town, it’s a sumptuous mix of architectural styles, featuring shiny marble floors, Art Deco detailing, and sunshine-lit, domed platforms.
The station dates back to the International Exhibition in 1929, and was later renovated for the 1992 Olympics. Once serving as the terminus for trains coming from and going to other places in Europe — namely, France — it’s now a hub for local trains (with international trains now traveling in and out of Sants).
Practical Info
Close to many of the city’s top sights, the França Railway Station is easily reachable by foot from most places in the tourist center. While there are no metro lines that connect directly to the station, it is just a short walk away from the Barceloneta stop. Additionally, many bus lines pass through here, including the hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops at Parc de la Ciutadella-Zoo.
Address: Avenida Marqués de L'Argentera , s/n, Barcelona, Catalonia 08003, Spain
Hours: 5 a.m.-12 a.m.
From $ 52
Cala Bassa
One of Ibiza’s most beautiful stretches of sand, Cala Bassa has become known as one of the island’s top beaches. Favored by locals and visitors alike, it’s a long crescent-shaped white sand bay with calm, turquoise waters that are great for water activities. Crowds are diverse and range from small children playing in the sand to adrenaline-seeking jet skiers and boaters. Many consider Cala Bassa to have the most vibrantly turquoise waters on the whole island.
Cala Bassa is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the natural coastal beauty, but it also has its fair share of facilities. From sun beds and beach chairs to restaurants, bars, showers, and lifeguards, the beach has a little bit of everything. Not to be overlooked, the Cala Bassa Beach Club offers up some of the DJs, dancing, and nightlife that Ibiza is famous for. The beach is a frequent stop of catamarans and boat tours of the island.
Practical Info
Cala Bassa is a 15 minute car or bus ride from San Antonio, or on the water by ferry. The nearest town is Sant Agnes de Corona, about five miles away. There’s a designated swimming area that is safe from water activities.
Address: Cala Bassa, Ibiza, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 290
Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles)
Madrid’s splendor is on full display at the grand Plaza de la Cibeles, a roundabout surrounded by notable buildings, including the stunning Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles). Formerly the communications palace, the colossal structure was designed by Antonio Palacios and Joaquín Otamendi and opened in 1909.
Today it houses the city council offices, as well as the CentroCentro cultural center, which comprises a tourist information center, exhibition hall and a terrace with views overlooking the city. The exhibition space often hosts art shows, workshops, conferences and the occasional concert. The center also houses a cafeteria-style restaurant and a sit-down restaurant.
Practical Info
The CentroCentro cultural center inside Cybele Palace offers free entry on the first Wednesday of every month.
Address: Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am-8pm
Admission: €2
From $ 14
Atocha Train Station (Estacion de Atocha)
Atocha Train Station (Estacion de Atocha) opened as Madrid’s first rail station in early 1851. The steel and glass structure was designed by Alberto Palacio Elissague, the architect most famous for working on the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal).
Atocha continues to serve as Madrid’s main train station, but it now occupies a new building. Largely destroyed by fire, the original station was renovated and reopened in 1892, operated for 100 years, was decommissioned in 1992 and reopened as a shopping and entertainment complex soon after. A new modern terminal, designed by Spanish architect Rafael Moneo, was built on adjacent land and now serves as Madrid’s primary station, servicing AVE and local commuter trains.
Practical Info
Much of the signage within the station is in English as well as Spanish, and it’s usually possible to find an English-speaking attendant if you need assistance purchasing tickets.
Address: Glorieta Carlos V s/n, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Daily 5am to 1am
From $ 88
Automobile and Fashion Museum (Museo Automovilistico y de la Moda)
The innovative Automobile and Fashion Museum is found in a former tobacco factory dating from 1927; it has an entrancing cross-section of exhibits and is the brainchild of Portuguese car fanatic and art collector Joao Magalhaes. The museum’s USP is the unusual combination of vintage vehicles displayed against a background of contemporary art and haute-couture design.
Magalhaes’ 80 vintage cars are presented in light-filled galleries stuffed with modern art and come in all vintages from the late 19th century to present day and beyond. His private art collection covers contemporary photography, splashes of graffiti art inspired by Jean-Paul Basquiat and Jackson Pollock, installations forged from wheel rims and sculpture resembling the anatomy of expensive cars. The museum also celebrates the close historic links of brands such as Ferrari and Aston Martin with exclusive fashion houses; the seven elegant clothing displays show exotic gowns from Balenciaga, Dior, YSL and Schiaparelli.
A recent addition to the mix is the EcoMuseum, dedicated to raising awareness of sustainability and green energy; star exhibits here include a steam car designed in 1910, the world’s first electric car — built in 1916 — and several futuristic prototypes, including a vehicle powered by hydrogen. If you’ve got time when visiting, walk to the museum along the seafront promenade, which takes about 40 minutes.
Practical Info
The museum is open Tue–Sun 10am–7pm. Admission for adults is €7.50; concessions are €5.50. Entrance is free with the Málaga Pass. There is free parking outside. For transportation, take EMT Bus Lines 3, 15, 16 and 19; Metro Line 2 to Princess-Huelin from the El Perchel; or the Green Line of the Málaga tourist bus.
Address: La Tabacalera, Av de Sor Teresa Prat, 15, Málaga, Andalucia, Spain
Hours: Tue–Sun 10am–7pm
Admission: Adults €7.50; Concessions €5.50
From $ 10
Arc de Triomf
With its signature red and white brickwork, the Arc de Triomf of Barcelona stands tall in the center of a wide boulevard as a unique piece of architecture in a creative city. Designed by Catalan architect Josep Vilaseca, it was originally meant for an exhibition entrance to the 1888 Universal Exposition, which took place at the nearby Parc de la Ciutadella. It was created with Islamic style influences in the Neo-Mudéjar style, which originated in 12th-century Iberia, and now stands in tribute as a memorial.
Various friezes in stone and tile along the sides of the arch represent advancements in technology, the arts, and agriculture. At the top of the arch are the coats of arms for 49 provinces of Spain, overseen by the coat of arms for Barcelona. Another relief is a symbol meaning "Barcelona welcomes the nations." It now marks the passage of a promenade which is pleasant for long walks. Classical in shape, it now stands as a landmark for the city of Barcelona.
Practical Info
Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf lies just north of the Parc de la Ciutadella on Passeig de Lluís Companys. The nearest Metro stop is Arc de Triomf.
Address: Passeig Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain
From $ 12
Atletico de Madrid Museum
Soccer, or football as it’s known in Europe, is at the center of modern European athletics and, more often than not, conversation. Home to one of Spain’s premier teams, the Atletico de Madrid Museum grants access to the famous Vicente Calderón Stadium and training facilities — all while learning about the history of the sport.
Collections of athlete memorabilia, a projection room, interactive zone, and other exhibitions present the hundred year history of the club itself and show the progression of and changes to football in Europe. There is also an impressive display of trophies won by the Club Atletico de Madrid team, including 9 Copas del Rey (King’s Cups), 1 Supercopa de España (Spain Supercup), an Intercontinental Cup, and a European Cup Winners’ Cup. Entertaining for fans and educational for all, the museum expertly presents a greater understanding of this piece of modern European life.
Practical Info
Located in the Arganzuela district, the Atletico de Madrid Museum in the Vicente Calderon Stadium. To get there, take the metro to the Puente de Vallecas stop. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm, and closes during match times. Admission is €6 for adults and €3 for children.
Address: Paseo De Los Melancólicos, 67, Madrid 28005, Spain
Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-7pm
Admission: Adults: €6; Children: €3
From $ 31
Auditorio de Tenerife (Tenerife Auditorium)
With its sweeping white façade looming over the waterfront of Santa Cruz harbor, the Auditorio de Tenerife (Tenerife Auditorium) is an instantly recognizable landmark of the Tenerife capital. The futuristic design by architect Santiago Calatrava has drawn comparisons to the Sydney Opera House and its signature white concrete arc looks particularly spectacular at night when the rooftop is lit up from beneath.
Although guided tours are a popular way to admire the interiors of the Auditorio de Tenerife, the best way to experience the famous venue is to book tickets for a show. There’s a varied schedule of music and dance performances throughout the year, with highlights including the Tenerife Opera, the Symphony Orchestra of Tenerife and special Christmastime musicals.
Although guided tours are a popular way to admire the interiors of the Auditorio de Tenerife, the best way to experience the famous venue is to book tickets for a show. There’s a varied schedule of music and dance performances throughout the year, with highlights including the Tenerife Opera, the Symphony Orchestra of Tenerife and special Christmastime musicals.
Address: Av de la Constitucion, 1, Santa Cruz de Tenerife 38003, Spain
From $ 25
Formentor and Puerto Pollensa
With its beautiful white sand beaches framed in picturesque rocky points, Puerto Pollensa (Port de Pollença) on majestic Formentor peninsula has become a magnet for holiday goers with a taste for the finer things in life. Everyone from families to water sports enthusiasts come for the cafe-lined promenade, marina, and the Bay of Pollensa.
The Basics
Outdoor recreational opportunities abound in Puerto Pollensa. Take a glass-bottomed boat trip through sapphire inlets, sail to Cape Formentor (Cap de Formentor) aboard a catamaran, stroll along the evergreen-shaded Pine Walk, or take in the stunning views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tramuntana mountains from one of several miradores, or viewpoints, dotted throughout the cape. Travelers based in La Palma de Mallorca (Majorca) can visit Puerto Pollensa, as well as other highlights of Mallorca’s north, on a guided day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Puerto Pollensa and Cape Formentor are must-sees for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the Spanish sun.
- Tours to Puerto Pollensa from Palma can last more than eight hours.
How to Get There
While often visited as part of a guided tour from Palma, independent travelers can get to Puerto Pollensa by catching one of several buses departing daily from Plaça Espanya in Palma.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Puerto Pollensa is between March and May, when average temperatures are pleasantly cool and summer tourists have yet to arrive. If you’re in town on a Wednesday, be sure to check out the Puerto Pollensa market in the town square.
Attractions in Northern Mallorca
While one of the island’s most beautiful sites, Puerto Pollensa isn’t the only travel-worthy place on the northern end of the island. The Mirador Es Colomer offers some of the best views of the spectacular coast, while Cala Pi de la Posada is one of the area’s top swimming beaches. For the best local nightlife, spend an evening in the nearby town of Alcudia Bay. Those with an interest in religious history can climb to an 18th-century hermitage from the town of Pollensa, located about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Puerto Pollensa.
Address: Ma-10, Puerto Pollensa, Spain
From $ 32
CaixaForum Barcelona
The sister museum to Madrid’s popular CaixaForum cultural center, CaixaForum Barcelona showcases a permanent collection of more than 800 thematically displayed works. This museum houses one of the biggest modern art collections in Spain, including pieces by Salvador Dalí, William Turner, William Hogarth, Joseph Beuys, and Sol Lewitt.
The Basics
CaixaForum is a hidden gem in Barcelona, often overlooked but worth the visit for modern art lovers. Museum visitors can purchase a single admission ticket or opt for a multi-attraction pass, which includes admission and skip-the-line access to CaixaForum, as well as other attractions like the Picasso Museum, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, and the Joan Miró Foundation. CaixaForum is a stop on the Red Route of the Barcelona hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The gallery is a must-visit for art lovers and those looking to get off the beaten track.
- Book your admission online ahead of time to skip the ticket line.
- CaixaForum and all its facilities are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
CaixaForum is well-connected by public transportation. The easiest way to get there is to take the metro to Espanya (Line 1 or 3). If you’re in the Plaça de Espanya or Montjüic neighborhoods, you’re within walking distance of the art gallery.
When to Get There
CaixaForum is open daily throughout the year, with extended hours on Wednesday during July and August. The air-conditioned museum is a good place to escape the heat on a hot summer afternoon.
Modernisme Architecture
The CaixaForum building itself is as impressive as the collection within it. The former clothing factory designed by Puig I Cadafalch in 1910 stands opposite the stylish Mies van der Rohe pavilion. Resembling a modernist castle with its intricate crenellated brickwork, the dramatic building now features a striking metal and glass canopy frontage designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki.
Address: Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guardia, 6-8, Barcelona 08038, Spain
From $ 35
Atarazanas Market
Atarazanas Market (also known as Mercado Central) is a Málaga landmark that served as a shipyard, warehouse, and barracks before becoming the city’s leading food market. The Moorish-influenced building has been refurbished, and it’s once more a warren of stalls set amid delicate wrought ironwork below a domed stained-glass window.
The Basics
The market interior is organized into three areas of neat lines—fish, meat, and fresh produce—and is awash with color, bustle, and the fragrance of spices and herbs. Tempting buys include Iberian pork, piles of ocean-fresh shellfish, and scented almonds farmed on Andalusian hillsides, as well as sweet Moroccan pastillas and local cheeses.
Atarazanas Market is lined with tasty tapas bars offering fried prawns, octopus, and boquerones (anchovies) fresh from the port. They’re all served up accompanied by glasses of local Alhambra beer, dry sherry, or rough local red wines. As one of the best places in Málaga to sample regional produce, Atarazanas market is a popular stop on many gourmet-oriented walking tours of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Atarazanas Market is a must-visit for foodies to try regional produce, prepared tapas, beers, and wines.
- Bring small denominations of euros if you plan to shop in the market.
- Some vendors don’t speak English, so it’s a good idea to pick up a few useful Spanish phrases before your visit.
How to Get There
The Atarazanas Market sits in the heart of the city of Málaga, making it easily accessible on foot from many other points of interest. Public buses traveling along Alameda Principal stop near the market.
When to Get There
The market is open Monday to Saturday throughout the year from morning to mid-afternoon. There’s not really a bad time to visit. Many seasonal ingredients pass through the market, like loquats in May, sweet figs in June, San Juan pears and custard apples in autumn, and purple carrots in December. The fish market tends to be quiet on Mondays.
Architecture of the Market
The horseshoe archway that serves as the main entrance into the market is the only remaining part of a 14th-century Moorish shipyard. In 1868, the government ordered the building to be torn down to clear space for a modern market. Joaquin Rucoba, lead architect on the project, helped to save this last horseshoe arch and incorporated it into his Arabic-style plans.
Address: Calle Atarazanas, 10, Malaga, Andalucia 29005, Spain
From $ 29
Atalaya Castle
This iconic castle known as the Watchtower in English has a long history of strength and resistance, since Muslim residents held off three different sieges by James I or Aragon. It wasn’t until 1240 that defeat was admitted and the picture-perfect castle was taken by the Kingdom of Castile.
Today, travelers can visit this historic site and wander the interior courtyard framed by sky-high walls and wander the second floor where a reproduction of a khamsa—a well-known Muslim and North African image of an open hand—is on display.
Practical Info
The castle is located in the north-western part of Alicante between Castile and the former Kingdom or Aragon.
Address: Calle Primera Manzana, Alicante, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: € 3
From $ 527
Cadiz Cruise Port
Cadiz is one of the oldest continuously-occupied cities in Europe dating its origins from around 1000BC when it was settled as a trading post by the Phoenicians. Its location on a peninsula, almost totally surrounded by the sea continues to make it a perfect port city and today it is the main home port of one of the four sectors of the Spanish Navy.
The original walled city was destroyed by Visigoth invaders in the 5th century and rebuilt by the Moors in the 8th century. The historic narrow, winding streets and plazas in the ancient quarters retain this influence, alongside a bustling modern city of wider streets and modern buildings.
A lovely city to explore in itself, Cadiz is often overlooked and used as a gateway to the more glamorous Seville which is home to Alcazar - a 14th century Moorish palace and home to the Spanish royal family when in Seville; home to the third largest cathedral in the world (in Plaza Virgen de los Reyes), and to one of Spain’s best museums, Museo de Bellas Artes.
How to Get to Cadiz
Cruise ships tie up in the commercial port (Puerto Commercial), right in the heart of town. It’s an easy ten minute walk from there, crossing Avenida del Puerto and on into Plaza del San Juan Dias, a huge square from where all the main shopping streets radiate.
One Day in Cadiz
Most people head straight for the train station or onto a bus for the trip to Seville. The station is only about five minute walk from the port entrance and the trip to Seville will take around an hour and three-quarters.
If you choose to stay in Cadiz, there is plenty to explore on foot. Begin by visiting the visitor’s center in the Plaza del San Juan Dias to pick up a free map marking a good walking trail to explore the city’s historic buildings. There is also an open top bus tour called Cadiz Tour which takes about an hour.
Make sure you walk the breakwater which surrounds the city and head up to the 18th century Baroque cathedral where you may be able to climb the tower for a bird’s eye view of the city. Also worth a look is the Fine Art and Archaeology Museum (Plaza de Mina). Cadiz also has good shopping with peak purchases being sherry, handmade ceramics, fans and flamenco outfits.
Port Information
The main language is Spanish but English is spoken in the tourist shops and restaurants. The currency is the Euro.The port is also known as the port of the Bay of Cadiz.
The original walled city was destroyed by Visigoth invaders in the 5th century and rebuilt by the Moors in the 8th century. The historic narrow, winding streets and plazas in the ancient quarters retain this influence, alongside a bustling modern city of wider streets and modern buildings.
A lovely city to explore in itself, Cadiz is often overlooked and used as a gateway to the more glamorous Seville which is home to Alcazar - a 14th century Moorish palace and home to the Spanish royal family when in Seville; home to the third largest cathedral in the world (in Plaza Virgen de los Reyes), and to one of Spain’s best museums, Museo de Bellas Artes.
How to Get to Cadiz
Cruise ships tie up in the commercial port (Puerto Commercial), right in the heart of town. It’s an easy ten minute walk from there, crossing Avenida del Puerto and on into Plaza del San Juan Dias, a huge square from where all the main shopping streets radiate.
One Day in Cadiz
Most people head straight for the train station or onto a bus for the trip to Seville. The station is only about five minute walk from the port entrance and the trip to Seville will take around an hour and three-quarters.
If you choose to stay in Cadiz, there is plenty to explore on foot. Begin by visiting the visitor’s center in the Plaza del San Juan Dias to pick up a free map marking a good walking trail to explore the city’s historic buildings. There is also an open top bus tour called Cadiz Tour which takes about an hour.
Make sure you walk the breakwater which surrounds the city and head up to the 18th century Baroque cathedral where you may be able to climb the tower for a bird’s eye view of the city. Also worth a look is the Fine Art and Archaeology Museum (Plaza de Mina). Cadiz also has good shopping with peak purchases being sherry, handmade ceramics, fans and flamenco outfits.
Port Information
The main language is Spanish but English is spoken in the tourist shops and restaurants. The currency is the Euro.The port is also known as the port of the Bay of Cadiz.
Address: Plaza de Espana, 17, Cadiz, Andalusia 11006, Spain
From $ 21
C esar Manrique Foundation
Art and architecture meet nature at the César Manrique Foundation. Situated in Manrique’s former home, the foundation melds into a landscape of lava rock and provides a visually stunning glimpse into the Lanzarote native’s craft.
Manrique, an artist and architect, left an indelible mark on the island, and not just through his creations—he even impacted the Lanzarote skyline. Indeed, thanks to his efforts, he helped to ensure that growing tourism didn’t result in growing skyscrapers. It’s a mission that continues to this day via the foundation, which aims to not only preserve Manrique’s work, but to also advance the environmental and artistic causes he valued.
The house itself sits on the aftermath of an 18th-century volcanic eruption that vastly changed the Lanzarote terrain. But it isn’t just built on the frozen-in-time lava, but among it, with the bottom living space occupying five volcanic bubbles. The whitewashed exterior, by contrast, is inspired by traditional island architecture. From a funky room with volcanic rock pouring through a window to a garden bordered by a rainbow-colored mural, every detail of the former home is a visual delight. While there, visitors can peruse all of the house’s unique corners, and also check out the various exhibitions and make stops at the café and shop.
Practical Info
The foundation is open daily from 10 p.m. to 6 p.m. and is located just a 10-minute drive away from the coastal city of Arrecife. To beat the crowds, plan to come early.
Address: Calle Taro de Tahiche s/n, Lanzarote, Spain
Hours: Daily from 10 p.m. to 6 p.m.
From $ 17
D'Alt Vila (Old Ibiza Town)
Sitting pretty on a hilltop in Ibiza Town (Eivissa), the fortified Dalt Vila (Upper Town) has been occupied since Phoenician times. Behind its chunky defensive walls and 16th-century bastions lies a maze of cobbled streets that slope up to the cathedral at the summit, where views of the glistening coast await.
The Basics
The tranquil, history-filled streets of Dalt Vila showcase a quieter side of Ibiza—one at odds with its party-hard reputation. Because of its narrow lanes, Dalt Vila is best explored on foot, with many walking tours of Ibiza Town passing through here. Visitors can also join guided scooter tours and zoom by top attractions such as the Ibiza Cathedral, Museu Puget, and Convento de San Cristobal, or rent a scooter and zip around Dalt Vila independently with the aid of a map.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dalt Vila is a must for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
- The cobbles can prove challenging for flip-flops, so be sure to wear sturdier shoes.
- Dalt Vila is not wheelchair-friendly, with most routes featuring cobbles, uneven surfaces, or steps.
How to Get There
The main entrance to Dalt Vila is the Portal de Ses Taules, which is accessible via a ramp leading from Ibiza Town’s Mercado Viejo (Old Market). Ibiza Bus runs multiple routes connecting Ibiza Town to other major island destinations, including Sant Antoni de Portmany, Santa Eulària, and Sant Jordi.
When to Get There
Dalt Vila—like the rest of Ibiza—attracts more crowds during the summer months, from June through September. One of the best times to visit is during the second weekend in May, when the family-friendly Medieval Festival takes place in Dalt Vila, with medieval-inspired market stalls and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Historical Highlights of Ibiza Town
Visitors with an interest in Ibiza Town’s lengthy history may want to visit the Necròpolis del Puig des Molins, an ancient burial site with more than 3,000 tombs, some of which date back as far as the 7th century BC. The sturdy walls that encircle the Dalt Vila, meanwhile, are a good spot for an evening stroll. Circumnavigating the entire 1-mile-long (2-kilometer-long) ramparts on foot usually takes around an hour, and is best done at night, when they are impressively lit.
Address: Ibiza Old Town, Spain
From $ 36
Freixenet Winery
One of the region’s most renowned producers of Catalonian specialty Cava, the Freixenet Vineyards make a popular day trip for visitors from Barcelona. Built in 1922, Freixenet was started by the Ferras and the Salas, two well-regarded winemaking families whose history of wine production dates back to the 12th century.
The Freixenet vineyards, located in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia in the legendary wine region of Altes Penedes, offer guests the chance to experience the production of the famous Freixenet cava with tours of the winery. Visitors can take a peek into the historic wine cellars, the production areas and bottling plants, where they can learn the traditional winemaking techniques that are still employed today. Most unique is the small passenger train that runs through the 20km of underground cava cellars, transporting guests to the tasting room. The grand finale of the tour, is the opportunity to taste some of the region’s most iconic sparkling wines, among which is Freixenet’s leading cava, the Carta Nevada and the popular Cordon Negro, both available for purchase from the on-site Dolores Ferrer wine shop.
You’ll be in good company drinking at Freixenet – the winemakers have been associated with a number of famous faces over the years, with the brand’s Christmas TV commercials featuring celebrities like Shakira, Antonio Banders, Demi Moore and Sharon Stone.
The Freixenet vineyards, located in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia in the legendary wine region of Altes Penedes, offer guests the chance to experience the production of the famous Freixenet cava with tours of the winery. Visitors can take a peek into the historic wine cellars, the production areas and bottling plants, where they can learn the traditional winemaking techniques that are still employed today. Most unique is the small passenger train that runs through the 20km of underground cava cellars, transporting guests to the tasting room. The grand finale of the tour, is the opportunity to taste some of the region’s most iconic sparkling wines, among which is Freixenet’s leading cava, the Carta Nevada and the popular Cordon Negro, both available for purchase from the on-site Dolores Ferrer wine shop.
You’ll be in good company drinking at Freixenet – the winemakers have been associated with a number of famous faces over the years, with the brand’s Christmas TV commercials featuring celebrities like Shakira, Antonio Banders, Demi Moore and Sharon Stone.
Address: Joan Sala 2, Sant Sadurni D'Anoia, Barcelona 08770, Spain
From $ 52
Cáceres
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Cáceres is tucked away in Extremadura, a Spanish region of wild beauty that is oft-overlooked by visitors. It is a time-traveler’s dream, with its immaculately preserved blend of architecture stretching back over a thousand years.
With contemporary suburbs wrapped around its ancient heart, the focal point of the city is the Plaza Mayor, one of the most striking public piazzas in Spain and home of the Moorish tower of Torre del Bujaco, built in the 12th century by the Arabs to defend their town from Spanish conquistadors. From here the labyrinthine old streets, turreted defense walls, archways and shady, cobbled squares of the Ciudad Monumental (Old City) rise uphill in a jumble of Roman archways, Mudejar towers, gargoyle-smothered Gothic churches and Renaissance palaces. A stroll around the silent streets uncovers townhouses at several stories high and embellished with coats of arms, tiny courtyards crammed with greenery, a miniscule Jewish quarter, and several thoughtfully presented historical museums.
The Avenida de España is a busy boulevard leading visitors back into the 21st century, shaded on one side by the trees of a tranquil park. Today’s modern city is small enough to explore on foot and lively after dark thanks to its vibrant university population. Cáceres also lies on one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago di Compostela, a journey that passes through landscapes dotted with whitewashed villages famous for producing delicious Iberico hams.
Practical Info
Cáceres lies in Extremadura in western Spain; the tourist information office is at Calle Olmos, 11. The city is best accessed by car along the E803 from Seville or the E90/ E803 from Lisbon.
Address: Cáceres, Spain
From $ 332