Spain Holidays

Cosmopolitan city breaks, sunny beach holidays and inland mountain getaways are all up for grabs in mainland Spain. Here are some of our favourites:

• Costa del Sol: A slice of sunny paradise along the south coast, the Costa del Sol is full of luxury hotspots playing host to the world’s rich and famous. Combine sandy beaches with old-town charm in Malaga, soak up glitz and glamour in Marbella and Puerto Banus or sip on sangria in beach bars in Fuengirola.
• Costa Brava: Translating as ‘rugged coast’, the 200km Costa Brava in the scenic region of Catalonia runs from Barcelona to the Spanish-French border, and is dotted with medieval villages, bustling coastal towns and spectacular seascapes. Visit Girona for historic architecture and quaint cobbled alleyways or dive into a wealth of water sports in Lloret de Mar.
• Costa Dorada: The Golden Coast is likely to evoke the smell of suncream, salty sea air and fresh seafood, thanks to its abundance of sandy beaches and bustling seaside resorts. Salou and La Pineda are top choices for family holidays, while culture vultures may prefer exploring the Roman ruins of Tarragona or Reus, the birthplace of celebrated architect Antoni Gaudí.
• Costa Blanca: A top destination for package holidays, Spain’s ‘white coast’ is brimming with lively beach resorts like Benidorm, Alicante and Calpe. Tucked between this sprawl of seaside towns, however, you will find a handful of old-school gems like Javea and Altea.
• Andalucia: The scent of orange blossom lingers over this fiesta-loving land in the south of Spain, where Christian and Islamic influences come together to create a romantic atmosphere filled with historic monuments, flamenco dancing and a characteristic cuisine infused with North African spices. Some of the most popular destinations include Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

Lush forests, laidback beaches and lunar landscapes are just a snippet of what you’ll find in Spain’s 2 archipelagos, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands.

• Majorca: The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca is home to endless golden beaches alongside plenty of outdoor exploits. Hike through the Tramuntana Mountains (scattered with wineries and incredible views), visit the Caves of Drach (the most visited caves in Europe), or peruse monuments dating back to the 14th century in the island’s capital, Palma de Mallorca.
• Menorca: A low-key alternative to its Balearic neighbours, the sleepy island of Menorca is crammed with family-run restaurants, Blue Flag beaches and colourful, rolling countryside. Check out Mahon, a charming harbour town hugging the hillside or visit Ciutadella, the island’s former capital, filled with Gothic architecture and medieval lanes.
• Ibiza: Another Balearic gem is Ibiza, the party capital of the world. Soak up the sun in secluded coves or barter at hippy markets by day, and by night discover the world-class nightlife of San Antonio and Ibiza Town. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dalt Vila (the Old Town of Eivissa) should be another addition to your agenda, with its impressive fortress walls and maze of cobbled streets within.
• Tenerife: All inclusive resorts and party hotspots are scattered across the southern coast of this Canary Island, while the north boasts black sands and authentic towns. Known for its otherworldly landscapes, Tenerife is also a top choice for wildlife spotting, water sports and golf courses galore.
• Gran Canaria: Volcanic craters, epic sand dunes and verdant forests make up the natural playground of Gran Canaria. Dubbed a ‘miniature continent’ thanks to its diverse landscapes, you’ll find soft-sand beaches home to mesmerising marine life next to a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which covers 43% of the entire island. Add that to delightful villages like Tejada and the bustling urban hub of Las Palmas, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable holiday.

Iconic architecture, buzzing nightlife and natural wonders aside, Spain is home to a bunch of spectacular beaches that are perfect for topping up your tan.

• La Concha Beach, Basque Country: This northern stretch of sand in San Sebastian is one of Europe’s greatest urban beaches thanks to its fiesta-filled atmosphere, soft sands and regular regattas. The town is also home to the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe (with 19 in total) meaning you can step off the beach and be seated in a fine-dining restaurant within minutes.
• Playa Venus, Marbella: Named after a bronze sculpture of the Roman goddess Venus on a water ski (installed by the beach in 1972), this Blue Flag beach is a hit with its soft sands and wide choice of water sports. Easily accessible from the town centre, it’s also close to Marbella’s marina, famed for its luxury yachts and sailing competitions.
• Playa Tossa de Mar, Girona: Often hailed as paradise on Earth, this fine, golden-sand beach is encompassed by views of the town’s medieval castle, making it one of the most scenic seaside spots in Spain. You’ll find a small selection of beach bars and cafés and, if you fancy getting out on the water, glass-bottomed boat tours.
• Playa de Sa Boadella, Costa Brava: Bordered by fragrant pines and craggy rocks, this idyllic enclave near Lloret de Mar is home to grottoes, natural caves and thriving underwater life. The shallow seabed makes it perfect for a paddle, but take note that you will glimpse a bare bod or 2 as the right-hand side of this beach is primarily for nudists.
• Playa de Las Arenas, Valencia: Volleyball courts, sun loungers and beach bars are not hard to find at this broad, sandy bay in Valencia. Active types can turn their hand to windsurfing or paddleboarding, while the cocktail lovers among you can try out a range of seafront establishments along the beach’s palm tree-lined boardwalk.

City breaks in Spain offer a vibrant blend of culture, history and gastronomy in captivating urban landscapes:

• Barcelona city breaks: Barcelona is famous for surrealist architecture by Gaudí, including the enchanting Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Enjoy the vibrant street life on Las Ramblas, sink into tranquillity at Barceloneta Beach and explore the historic Gothic Quarter – a historical enclave with treasures round each corner.
• Madrid city breaks: Spain's capital city offers world-class museums like the Prado, bustling markets at Plaza Mayor and the grandeur of the Royal Palace. Embrace the exuberance of Puerta del Sol – one of the city’s busiest and best-known attractions – before settling in at a tapas bar to try some delicious Spanish cuisine.
• Seville city breaks: Seville dazzles with its resplendent Alcázar Palace, the iconic Giralda Tower and the charming Santa Cruz neighbourhood, adorned with quaint alleys and vibrant colours. Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring rhythms of flamenco, witness the grandeur of Plaza de España, and wander the city’s romantic streets.
• Valencia city breaks: Valencia beckons with the awe-inspiring City of Arts and Sciences, the lively Central Market and the serene ambience of Turia Gardens – a true urban oasis. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Valencia Cathedral and relish in the gastronomic delight of the city's signature dish – paella.
• Granada city breaks: Nestled amidst the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada enchants with the mesmerising Alhambra Palace and labyrinthine alleys of Albayzín. Dive into history at Granada Cathedral, unwind in Generalife's serene gardens and immerse in panoramic vistas from Mirador San Nicolás.

Every inch of Spain – from the Pyrenees Mountains in the north to the desert sands of Gran Canaria in the south – is full of exciting things to see and do, whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor adventurer. Here are our top highlights:

• Architectural delights: Undoubtedly the most famous building in Spain, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is a sight to behold. The unfinished Church of the Sacred Family, envisioned by Gaudí himself, was first established in 1882 and is yet to be completed, but features ornate exteriors and extravagant interiors. Other fascinating architectural sites include Gaudí’s Casa Milà, the Metropol Parasol (The Mushrooms of Seville), said to be the largest wooden structure in the world, and the impressive blue ‘Smurf Village’ of Juzcar in Andalucia.
• Historical attractions: Overlooking the old town of Granada, the 800-year-old Alhambra is a classic example of Arabic architecture, built as a palace for the Moorish kings of Muslim Spain. Explore colossal chambers with grand ceilings on a guided tour and discover some of the fortress’ spiciest secrets. Also worth a visit is the Montserrat Monastery, a medieval abbey built into the Catalan mountains, and Castillo de Loarre, a fairytale castle in the ancient kingdom of Aragon.
• Art and culture: For the creatives among you, Madrid’s Centro de Arte Reine Sofia is a must-visit, home to masterpieces by various Spanish artists like Eduardo Chillida, Luis Gordillo and, of course, Picasso’s Guernica. Science fans, however, may prefer a visit to Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences, a sprawling cultural marvel housing the Museu de les Ciències (Science Museum) and the Umbracle – a spectacular outdoor gallery teeming with indigenous plants.
• Natural wonders: Venture out on foot into Almeria’s Tabernas Desert (the only desert on the whole European continent), hike up to the crater of Mount Teide in the barren, volcanic Teide National Park in Tenerife or wander through magical laurel forests in the Garajonay National Park on La Gomera.
• Festivals and events: If there’s one thing Spain knows how to do right, it's fiesta – and there are plenty of parties to be had throughout the year. Every February, thousands of people fill the streets for the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival (the second-largest carnival after Rio), while La Tomatina is an annual event held in Bunol, Valencia where festival-goers throw tomatoes at each other. Alternatively, spectate the unique Catalan tradition of the ‘human towers’ at the biennial Concurs de Castells competition in Tarragona.

With an abundance of exciting attractions, experiences and activities on offer, family holidays to Spain aren’t just about building sandcastles on the beach (though they can be if you want!). If you fancy getting out and about, here are some of the most coveted things to do with the kids in tow.

• Waterparks: Sizzling temperatures call for one thing – waterparks. And there are tons to visit in Spain. Get your adrenaline rush on the Rafting River at Costa Brava’s Water World, float along the Bravo River at AquaMijas in Fuengirola or splash about in The Lost City at the Thailand-themed Siam Park in Tenerife.
• Theme parks: To the delight of all kids, big and small, loop-de-loops, tummy-churning drops and magic tea cup rides can be found all across Spain. Brave sky-high rollercoasters and wild rapids at PortAventura World in Salou, rack up points on laser-shooting rides at Benidorm’s Terra Mitica, let the kids loose in the upside-down house in Kathmandu Park, Majorca, or get into character at the wild west theme park of Oasys Mini Hollywood in Almeria.
• Outdoor adventures: Put down the screens and get back into nature. Pack some snacks and try to conquer the Caminito del Rey in Malaga. The King’s Pathway is a 9km trail along dizzying wooden-plank walkways suspended 100m above the river and built into the rocky walls of the gorge. Alternatively, put your feet up on a whale and dolphin-watching boat trip in Tenerife. With bottlenose dolphins, humpbacks, minke and even orcas basking off the island’s coastline, you’re very likely to catch a glimpse of these mesmerising water mammals.
• Cultural experiences: Introduce your little ones to Spanish culture and traditions by seeing a flamenco show. Dating back 500 years, this age-old folk music is played on guitars and is accompanied by rhythmic dancing and the clapping of castanets. The best place to see a flamenco show is in the Andalusian capital, Seville. If you’re visiting over the Christmas holidays, be sure to catch the Three Kings Parade, which takes place every year in cities across Spain on 5 January. Full of magic, fun and plenty of sweets, the parade sees Kings Melchior, Balthazar and Gaspar, handing out festive gifts to the children from their ornate carriages.
• Museum trips: Escape the sun with a visit to one of Spain’s myriad of museums. Chocoholics will love Barcelona’s Museo de la Xocolata, filled with cool chocolate sculptures and yummy chocolate treats, while Madrid’s Museum of Illusions will keep you entertained through holograms, mind tricks and games. Down in Huelva, you’ll find the Rio Tinto Express, a fascinating mine train that’ll take you on a rickety ride into the area’s mines and discover why the ‘Red River’ has its unique red and orange tint.

Teeming with fresh flavours and organic ingredients, Spain’s Mediterranean diet is lauded as the healthiest in Europe. From salty cured meats to crispy seafood-stuffed rice dishes and creamy baked desserts, here are just a few of the delicious delicacies you have to try while on holiday in Spain.

• Tapas: A style of dining consisting of small, sharing plates, tapas avoids any sense of food envy by letting you dig into everything on the table. At a tapas bar, be sure to order patatas bravas – cubed potatoes, smothered in garlic mayonnaise and spicy ketchup – tortilla (Spanish omelette), albondigas (meatballs in tomato sauce) and gambas (prawns cooked in garlic-infused olive oil).
• Paella: Hailing from Valencia, this popular rice dish traditionally comes in 2 varieties – rabbit and chicken, and seafood. Saffron gives the dish its reddy colour and the base should be deliciously crisp. If you’re staying in Costa Dorada, try arròs negre, a paella variation made with black rice dyed with squid ink.
• Gazpacho: The reddest, ripest tomatoes, alongside olive oil, garlic, bread, peppers and cucumbers, are used in this refreshing, blended chilled soup originating from Andalucia. Now a national dish for all Spaniards, you’ll always find a jug of gazpacho on the counters of tapas bars during the summer months.
• Sweet treats: Satisfy your sweet tooth with crisp churros (fried dough pastry cut into long strips and doused in sugar), Leche frita (a fried milk dessert), Basque cheesecake (a scorched, caramelised baked cheesecake with no biscuit base) or an Ensaimada, a Majorcan spiral pastry traditionally topped with powdered sugar.
• Rioja: Rioja is a rich red wine bursting with notes of berries, plums and vanilla. Sound tempting? You can get to know Spain’s best-known wine at some of the country’s state-of-the-art vineyards and wineries. Taste some of the most coveted bottles on the market at Bodegas Ysios or delve into guided tours and tastings at Bodegas Santalba.

With all-day beach clubs, epic superclubs, laidback waterfront cocktail bars and late-night karaoke joints, Spain is up there as one of Europe’s top nightlife destinations. Here’s a quick rundown of the best places to go for a party:

• Ibiza: The clubbing capital of the world, Ibiza is renowned for its host of large-scale nightclubs, resident DJ sets and late-night pool parties. Start your evening with a sunset drink at Cafe Del Mar in San Antonio Bay before heading out to all-night parties at iconic nightclubs like Pacha, Space and Privilege (tipped to be the biggest nightclub in the world). Ushuaïa is another popular playground thanks to its open-air parties around the pool.
• Magaluf: This party resort in Majorca is at the top of all young people's party lists thanks to its infamous strip lined with over 50 bars and clubs, vivacious bar crawls and all-day boat parties. Dance the night away at Tokio Joes, Carwash (known for its foam and paint parties) and BCM Planet Dance, a show-stopping superclub complete with pulsing music, laser shows and podium dancers.
• Playa de Las Americas: On a slightly smaller scale, Tenerife’s late-night wonderland is famed for its animated nightspots and wild discos that line Veronicas Strip. Enjoy daytime drinks at Kaluna Beach Club – whose infinity pool is as impressive as its cocktails – before singing along to live music at The Dubliner and dancing until dawn at Tramps Nightclub.
• Marbella: One of the most luxurious party destinations in Spain, Marbella is notable for being a playground for celebrities and the wealthy. Dance with socialites at prestigious nightclubs like Pangea or catch famous DJs spinning their sets at Olivia Valère, where open-air patios are housed inside replicas of the Alhambra Palace and Mezquita.
• Benidorm: Costa Blanca’s party capital sees eclectic action until way past breakfast time. Benidorm’s unpretentious nightlife involves a selection of comedy clubs, cabaret bars and karaoke joints alongside a wealth of Irish-themed bars. Treat yourself to an exuberant cabaret-dinner show at Benidorm Palace, sink a Guinness or 2 at Scruffy Murphys and whip out your best moves on the dancefloor at The Hippodrome.