Planning a trip to Spain and looking for some inspiration? My Spain bucket list is packed with all the incredible experiences and activities you cannot miss during your visit!
Spain is one of the most popular destinations in the Iberian Peninsula, and in Europe for that matter!
From its Moorish architecture and stunningly well-preserved medieval villages, to its delicious food, beautiful beaches and passionate culture – there is so much to see and do in Spain.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, relaxation or simply want to experience some of the best food and wine in the world, Spain is a bucket list destination for many people.
And rightfully so!
To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this Spanish bucket list packed with my personal picks of the best things to do in Spain, as well as some insider tips on how to make the most of your trip.
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Full disclosure! See those links below? If you happen to click on one of these and purchase something I recommend, I’ll get a small commission (wohoo). Don’t worry, these affiliate links are at no extra cost to you (in fact, often I’ll have some discounts you can enjoy!). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying sales. You can read my full disclaimer here.

From Barcelona in northern Spain to the Spanish capital of Madrid, and south to the Andalusian cities of Seville, Cordoba and Granada – here are 45 of the best things to add to your Spain bucket list:
- Spain Bucket List
- 1. Visit the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
- 2. Marvel at the Alhambra in Granada
- 3. Go hiking in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
- 4. Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid
- 5. Stroll (or bike) through La Rambla
- 6. Discover Timanfaya National Park
- 7. Try your hand at surfing in Zarautz
- 8. Discover the 'blue paradise' town of Tossa de Mar
- 9. Climb Mount Teide in Tenerife
- 10. Do a cross-border zipline between Spain and Portugal
- 11. Wonder at the Mezquita in Córdoba
- 12. Taste some authentic paella in Valencia
- 13. Take a tour of Camp Nou
- 14. Admire the gothic architecture of Seville Cathedral
- 15. Enjoy water activities in Costa Brava
- 16. Explore the fairytale Alcazar de Segovia
- 17. Take a cable car ride in Málaga
- 18. Spend a day in Toledo
- 19. Rent a bike and explore Ibiza
- 20. Wander the medieval streets of Pals, Girona
- 21. Attend Las Fallas de Valencia festival
- 22. Get some sun at La Concha Beach in San Sebastián
- 23. Walk across Puente Nuevo in Ronda
- 24. Take pictures in the colourful coastal town of Villajoyosa
- 25. Soak up the sun on the beaches of Mallorca
- 26. Walk through the Maspalomas Sand Dunes
- 27. See the sunset at Cabo de Gata
- 28. Hit the slopes in the Pyrenees
- 29. Visit Parque Güell in Barcelona
- 30. Take a walk through the Rastro market in Madrid
- 31. Visit the seaside fishing village of Cudillero, Asturias
- 32. Rent a boat and explore Formentera
- 33. See the Roman ruins of Mérida
- 34. Visit the Picasso Museum in Barcelona
- 35. Go on a wine tour in La Rioja
- 36. Walk the Camino de Santiago
- 37. Eat tapas in Olive Country
- 38. See the El Retiro Park in Madrid
- 39. See the Royal Alcázar Castle in Seville
- 40. Take a cable car ride up Montserrat
- 41. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
- 42. Go on a safari in Doñana National Park
- 43. See the Great Pyramids of Guimar
- 44. Go on a sailing excursion in the Alella wine region
- 45. Sip Sangria in Andalucía
- FAQs about visiting Spain
- Conclusion: Spain Bucket List
Spain Bucket List
1. Visit the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
The La Sagrada Familia is a spectacular church located in Barcelona, and one of the most iconic landmarks in the country.
Designed by world-famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, construction of the church began in 1882 and is still not completed! Nevertheless, the church is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and is scheduled to be finished sometime between 2026-2028.
Gaudí’s unique and incredible design for the La Sagrada Familia has made it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Spain, with over 4.5 million people visiting every year.

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, a visit to the La Sagrada Familia should definitely be at the top of your list. And be sure to take the – somewhat rickety – elevator up to the top of one of the towers for some incredible views of the entire city.
You can skip the line here or find a tour that suits you best here.
2. Marvel at the Alhambra in Granada
The Alhambra is a Moorish fortress located in the Andalusian city of Granada.
Built in the 13th century, the Alhambra was originally constructed as a royal palace for the Moorish rulers of Granada. Today, it is one of the best-preserved examples of Moorish architecture in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, courtyards and palaces of the Alhambra, and marvel at the stunning views of Granada from its walls.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love exploring the Alhambra and learning about its fascinating past. And even if you’re not, the Alhambra is still an incredible place to visit.
Grab a fast track Alhambra ticket here!
3. Go hiking in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
This paradise for nature lovers is located in the mountains of Andalusia.
Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain, with its dense forests, rugged mountains and picturesque villages.

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore in the park, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the park’s wildlife, including eagles, vultures, mongoose and deer.
4. Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid
The Prado Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and definitely a must-visit for art lovers.
Located in Spain’s capital city of Madrid, the Prado Museum houses an incredible collection of 12th-20th centuries Spanish and European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and Bosch.
Some must see paintings in the Prado include ‘Las Meninas’ by Velázquez and ‘The Third of May 1808’ by Goya.
With over 5,000 drawings and 2,000 pieces of art on display, the Prado Museum can be a bit overwhelming. I recommend taking one of the many guided tours available to help you make the most of your visit.
You can skip the lines with a guided tour at the Prado Museum here.
5. Stroll (or bike) through La Rambla
La Rambla (Las Ramblas) is a popular pedestrian street right in the center of Barcelona.
Running 1.2 kilometers from Plaza de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus monument, La Rambla is a great place to people watch.

There are plenty of kiosks selling souvenirs, flowers and newspapers, as well as cafes, bars and restaurants lining the street. And be sure to check out the famous Mercado de la Boqueria food market if you’re feeling peckish!
Take a stroll down La Rambla at your own leisure, or rent a bike and explore Barcelona like a local.
6. Discover Timanfaya National Park
Timanfaya National Park, on the Canary Island of Lanzarote, was created after a series of volcanic eruptions in the 18th century, and today it is home to some amazing lunar-like landscapes.
There are plenty of things to see and do in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Timanfaya National Park, from hiking and seeing the camels (please don’t partake in the camel rides!) to wine tasting and food cooked with geothermal heat.
The volcanic landscape of the park is truly unique, but it can only be visited by organised tour because of its protected status. I recommend this tour or this one!
7. Try your hand at surfing in Zarautz
Zarautz is a small town located on the Basque coast in the north of Spain.
Despite its size, Zarautz is one of the best places to surf in Spain, with its long stretches of sandy beaches, consistent waves and good weather.

Surfing lessons are available for beginners, or you can rent a board and hit the waves yourself if you’re already a pro. If you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of other water sports to catch your fancy in Zarautz.
There’s also plenty of non-water related things to do in Zarautz, from exploring the old town to strolling down the beautiful promenade to hiking in the nearby mountains.
8. Discover the ‘blue paradise’ town of Tossa de Mar
Once a small fishing village, Tossa de Mar is a picturesque town in the Spanish region of Catalonia.
Nicknamed the ‘blue paradise’, Tossa de Mar is known for its clear blue waters and pretty beaches. The old town, which is surrounded by medieval walls, dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries.
When it comes to things to do in Tossa de Mar, there’s plenty to keep you busy, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the town’s museums and historic sites. You can also take a boat trip to nearby towns and villages, or go hiking or cycling in the surrounding countryside.
9. Climb Mount Teide in Tenerife
Mount Teide is the tallest mountain in Spain, and the tallest peak above sea level in the Atlantic islands.
Located in Teide National Park on the Canary Island of Tenerife, Mount Teide is a beautiful destination, with visitors coming to admire the stunning views, hike to the summit or take a cable car ride up to the top.

If you want to hike to the summit of Mount Teide, you need to get a permit in advance. The hike is 9km and takes around 6 to 7 hours to complete. But the spectacular views of the natural landscape from the summit are 100% worth it.
If you’re into astronomy, I highly recommend joining this incredible stargazing experience. Even NASA describes this as one of the best places in the world to see the stars!
10. Do a cross-border zipline between Spain and Portugal
If this isn’t already on your Spain bucket list, it definitely should be! The cross-border zipline between Spain and Portugal is the only cross border zipline in the world.
You start in Spain and zipline your way into Portugal along a 720m wire at speeds of 70-80km per hour.
Not only is it an incredible experience in itself, but you also get to admire the stunning scenery of the River Guadiana as you zip along.
What’s really weird is that when you leave Spain it will be one time, but when you arrive in Portugal you’ll have gained an hour with the time difference!
11. Wonder at the Mezquita in Córdoba
The Mezquita (or Mosque-Cathedral) in Córdoba is one of the most fascinating and unique buildings in Spain.
Originally built as a mosque in the 10th century, it was converted into a cathedral in the 13th century after the Spanish Reconquista.

As a result, the Mezquita is a unique blend of Muslim and Christian architecture, with its forest of Columns, Mihrab (prayer niche) and ornate Gothic chapel all existing side by side. It’s truly a sight to behold!
The Mezquita is open to visitors daily, although there is an entrance fee. I recommend buying a ticket in advance to avoid the queues. You can book a guided tour with priority access ticket here.
12. Taste some authentic paella in Valencia
Have you even been to Spain if you don’t try the local cuisine?
The beautiful city of Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and there’s no better place to try this iconic dish than in its city of origin.
Paella is made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood – Personally, I think the seafood paella is the best!
For the authentic Valencia experience, head to one of the many paella restaurants in the city centre. Many of them have outdoor terraces where you can enjoy the dish while people watching
If you want to learn how to make paella yourself, you can sign up for a cooking class. I did this and it was so much fun – perhaps not as tasty as the paella in a restaurant, but I made it myself!
13. Take a tour of Camp Nou
If you’re a football fan, you’ll definitely want to add a tour of Camp Nou to your Spain bucket list.
Located in Barcelona, Camp Nou is the largest football stadium in Europe and the home of FC Barcelona. The stadium has a capacity of 80,000 and features a museum dedicated to the club’s history.

You can buy tickets for a self-guided tour of the stadium, or combine it with a guided tour of the museum. I recommend doing the latter as it’s really interesting to learn about the club’s history and see all the trophies they’ve won over the years!
14. Admire the gothic architecture of Seville Cathedral
The 16th century Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest church by area.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1401 and was not completed until 1528. It is one of Spain’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior, with its ornate altarpiece and numerous chapels.
Visitors can explore the cathedral independently or take a guided tour (which I recommend). You can also climb to the top of the Giralda tower for panoramic views of the ancient city of Seville!
15. Enjoy water activities in Costa Brava
Costa Brava is renowned for its sandy beaches, glistening water and wide range of water sports on offer.
Whether you want to try your hand at windsurfing, sailing, paddle-boarding kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving, Costa Brava has it all!

There’s also the Costa Brava water park, which is a great place to spend a day with the family. It’s home to a wide range of water slides, pools and other attractions, as well as a heated pool, and restaurant.
16. Explore the fairytale Alcazar de Segovia
The Alcazar de Segovia is a fairytale castle located in the Spanish city of Segovia.
The castle was built in the 12th century and served as a royal palace, fortress and state prison. It’s renowned for its beautiful architecture, which is a mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Moorish styles.
The Alcazar is open to the public and can be explored independently or as part of a guided tour. I recommend doing a guided tour as it’s really interesting to learn about the castle’s history and see all the different rooms and areas.
While in Segovia, you should also check out the city’s famous Roman aqueduct. It’s the largest and best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Spain!
17. Take a cable car ride in Málaga
Málaga is a beautiful coastal city located on the Costa del Sol in southeast Spain.
One of the best ways to see the city is from above, and the best way to do that is by taking a ride on the Málaga cable car.

The cable car takes you from the port up to the top of Mount Calamorro. The journey takes around 15 minutes and the views of the city and Mediterranean Sea from the top are incredible!
Once at the top, either chill out and admire the views or join one of the many hiking trails around Sierra de Benalmádena.
18. Spend a day in Toledo
With its medieval architecture and quaint cobbled streets, it’s easy to see why Toledo is a popular tourist destination.
Toledo is located in central Spain, around 70km from Madrid, making it the perfect day trip from Madrid. It’s a small city with a lot to see and do, including the Toledo Cathedral, El Greco Museum and Alcázar de Toledo
There are also plenty of shops selling traditional Spanish products like swords, ceramics and marzipan.
If you’re visiting Toledo from Madrid, I recommend taking the AVE high-speed train. The journey takes around 35 minutes and is a lot quicker (and more comfortable) than driving! Alternatively, leave all the organising up to someone else and take a group tour.
19. Rent a bike and explore Ibiza
Ibiza may be known for its nightlife scene, but there’s a whole lot more to Ibiza than just clubs and bars.
The island is home to beautiful beaches, sparkling water, quaint villages and stunning scenery. And the best way to explore the island’s hidden gems is by bike!

There are plenty of places where you can rent a bike, and there are also a number of cycle paths around the island
One of the most popular routes is the Ses Salines cycle paths. The route takes you 35km along the coast, past some of the island’s most popular beaches, and loops back around to Ibiza’s old town of Dalt Vila. The ride should take around 4 hours, although more if you plan to stop for a dip along the way.
Don’t worry if you’re not Tour de France ready yet. There are plenty of easy beginner routes around the island.
Take a look at bike rentals here.
20. Wander the medieval streets of Pals, Girona
Pals is a beautifully preserved 14th centory medieval town located in the province of Girona, in northeast Spain.
The village is built on a hilltop and has stunning views over the surrounding countryside. It’s also home to a number of historical buildings, including the 12th century Church of Sant Pere de Galligants.
Pals is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Wander the winding streets, pop into the shops and stop for lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
21. Attend Las Fallas de Valencia festival
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting festival, then you can’t go miss Las Fallas de Valencia.
The festival takes place in early March and celebrates the start of spring. It involves building huge wooden effigies (called parots) which are set on fire in the streets.

During the festival, there are also a number of spectacular firework displays, live music performances and traditional food stalls.
If you’re in Spain during early March, Las Fallas de Valencia is definitely an event not to be missed!
22. Get some sun at La Concha Beach in San Sebastián
With its gentle waves and sandy shores, La Concha is often considered to be one of the best beaches in Europe.
The beach is located in the city of San Sebastián, in the Basque Country region of Spain. It’s easily accessible from nearby Bilbao and Pamplona, and makes for a great day trip from either of these cities.
When you’re not lounging on the beach, take a walk along the promenade, visit one of the many restaurants or cafes, or explore the nearby old town.
23. Walk across Puente Nuevo in Ronda
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure during your trip to Spain, then you should definitely walk across Puente Nuevo in Ronda. Puente Nuevo means ‘new bridge’ in Spanish – there was an attempt to build a bridge previously but it was poorly constructed and tragically collapsed.

The current bridge was built in the early 19th century and provides stunning views over the El Tajo gorge below. It’s not for the faint-hearted though – the walk across is pretty high up!
Ronda is a great place to spend a day or two, and there’s plenty to see and do in the city besides walking across the Puente Nuevo, such as exploring the winding streets of the old town.
24. Take pictures in the colourful coastal town of Villajoyosa
Villa Joyosa is a small town located on the Costa Blanca, in the province of Alicante. The town is best known for its colourful houses, which line the seafront promenade.
The houses were originally painted white to reflect the heat of the sun, but over time they’ve been painted in a variety of colours. The result is a beautiful and picturesque town, which makes for great photo opportunities.
When you’re not taking photos, make sure to try the local delicacy – chocolate con churros. This tour actually takes you inside a chocolate factory – heaven!
25. Soak up the sun on the beaches of Mallorca
What could be better than soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach in Mallorca? The largest island off the coast of Spain is home to some of the best beaches in the country, and with its Mediterranean climate, you can be sure of plenty of sunshine.
The beaches are well-known for their clear blue waters and stunning beaches. Some of the best include Cala Mesquida, Es Cala del Moro and Cala Formentor.
When you’re not relaxing on the beach, Mallorca also has plenty to offer in terms of culture and history. Visit the capital city of Palma, explore the windmills of Alcudia or take a day trip to the Tramuntana mountains.
26. Walk through the Maspalomas Sand Dunes
An incredible natural landscape, the Maspalomas Sand Dunes are located on the island of Gran Canaria. The dunes are a protected area since 1994 and span over 1000 acres along 6km of coastline.

The scene is pretty surreal, with the huge sand dunes contrasting against the blue ocean. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Gran Canaria!
27. See the sunset at Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata is a nature reserve located on the southeastern coast of Spain. It’s well-known for its unspoilt beaches and spectacular sunsets.
The best time to see the sunset is from late September to early October, when the sun sets directly in line with the promontory. The views are simply stunning, and it’s definitely an experience not to be missed.
I recommend heading to Cabo de Gata Lighthouse for a magical sunset setting.
28. Hit the slopes in the Pyrenees
Spain is not just all about beaches and sultry weather. The Pyrenees are located in the north of Spain, and form a natural border between the country and France. They’re home to some of the best ski resorts in Europe, including Baqueira Beret and Formigal.
If outdoor activities are on your Spain bucket list, then you definitely need to add skiing or snowboarding in the Pyrenees mountains to it!

Whether you’ve never tried skiing before or you’re a pro, you’ll find plenty of slopes to suit your level in the Pyrenees. And, if you don’t fancy skiing or snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities on offer such as hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing.
If you visit in winter, make sure to take a cable car up to the mountaintop so you can see the stunning views of the snow-covered valleys below, even if you’re not interested in skiing!
29. Visit Parque Güell in Barcelona
If you’re visiting Barcelona, be sure to add Parque Güell to your list of things to see. The park is located on the outskirts of the city, and is home to some of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous architecture.
The highlight of the park is the Gaudi House Museum, which was the home of Gaudi for over 20 years. The house is full of his unique and quirky designs, and is well worth a visit.
In addition to the museum, the park is also home to a large number of sculptures and mosaics by Gaudi, as well as some beautiful gardens. It’s a great place to spend a day or two, and is one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist attractions.
30. Take a walk through the Rastro market in Madrid
There’s nothing quite like wandering through markets in a new country, and the Rastro market in Madrid is no different.
The Rastro market dates back to the Middle Ages, and has grown over the years to become one of Madrid’s favourite markets.

You’ll find all sorts of things on sale here, from clothes and accessories to books and antiques. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs, or just to have a browse and soak up the atmosphere.
The market is open every Sunday, from 9am till 3pm, so be sure to add it to your list if you’re in Madrid on a Sunday.
31. Visit the seaside fishing village of Cudillero, Asturias
If you’re looking for a charming and off-the-beaten-path village to visit in Spain, then I highly recommend Cudillero. This small fishing village is located in Asturias, in the northwest of the country, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
The village is perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, and is home to some stunning coastal scenery. The old fishing boats are still docked in the harbour, and the narrow streets are full of traditional whitewashed houses.
Cudillero is definitely not a tourist hotspot, so you’ll get to experience real Spanish culture here. Be sure to stop by one of the local cafes for a coffee or a bite to eat.
32. Rent a boat and explore Formentera
The smallest of Spain’s Baleric islands, Formentera is a beautiful and serene place to relax and get away from it all. This small island is located just south of Ibiza, and is reachable by a short ferry ride from the mainland.

Formentera is well-known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can rent boats to explore the coves and bays along the coastline, or simply relax on one of the many beach umbrellas and take in the incredible views. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy, serving up fresh seafood and traditional Spanish dishes.
If you have time, sail over to the island of S’Espalmador, a uninhabited island just a short distance from Formentera. This natural reserve is home to some of the most tranquil beaches in the area, and is well worth a visit.
33. See the Roman ruins of Mérida
Mérida is a beautiful city in the Extremadura region of western Spain. It is home to an impressive array of Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheatre, aqueduct and temple.
The city is also surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and is a great place to enjoy a walk or cycle. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the centre of town, as well as a lively nightlife scene.
If you’re looking for an interesting and historic day trip from Madrid, be sure to visit Mérida!
34. Visit the Picasso Museum in Barcelona
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is one of the most popular museums in the city, and for good reason. It is home to an impressive collection of artwork by Pablo Picasso, one of the most famous artists of the 20th century.
The museum is housed in five medieval palaces right in the heart of Barcelona, and is a must-see for any art lover.
With over 4,000 pieces of artwork on display, the museum shows an integral part of the formative years of the artist.
You could spend hours exploring the different rooms and exhibitions, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time when visiting. However, if you’re the type to just have a quick glance and move on, you can see the most important pieces within an hour and a half.
Skip the line with this guided tour of the Picasso Museum.
35. Go on a wine tour in La Rioja
La Rioja is one of Spain’s most famous wine regions, and a visit here is a must for any wine lover. This picturesque region is located in the north-east of the country, and is well known for its quality wines.
There are plenty of wineries to choose from when planning a wine tour in La Rioja, each offering their own unique tasting experience. You can explore the vineyards and cellars, learn about the history of wine-making in the region, and of course sample some of the best wines Spain has to offer.

With its stunning scenery and delicious food, La Rioja makes for an idyllic setting for a wine tour. The vineyards are surrounded by rolling hills, quaint villages, and beautiful countryside, making it a picture perfect place to enjoy a leisurely glass of red.
Don’t want to share your wine with anyone (I don’t blame you)? I recommend this private wine tasting tour – the cave cellars you’ll explore are incredible!
36. Walk the Camino de Santiago
One of the ultimate bucket list items in Spain is to walk the Camino de Santiago. This ancient pilgrimage route, dating back to 800AD, stretches for over 600 miles across the country, from the French border all the way to Santiago de Compostela in north-west Spain.
There is something about walking the Camino that is truly magical. Whether you do it for the religious or spiritual aspects, or simply to enjoy the stunning scenery and meet new people, it is an experience you will never forget.
The most popular route is the Camino Frances, which starts in the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. From here, it winds its way through the picturesque countryside of northern Spain, before arriving in Santiago de Compostela.
The entire journey takes around a month to complete, although you can do shorter sections if you don’t have that much time or only want to experience a short portion of the Camino. No matter how far you walk, the experience will stay with you forever.
37. Eat tapas in Olive Country
Tapas are a quintessential Spanish cuisine, and no trip to the country would be complete without trying some. If you’re looking for the best place to eat tapas in Spain, then head to Olive Country in the province of Jaén.
This picturesque region is located in the southern part of Spain, and is famous for its delicious olive oil. The tapas here are some of the best in the country, and you can try a variety of different dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Tapas are small dishes that are typically served with drinks, and they’re incredibly popular in Spain.
Be sure to sample some of the traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas, croquetas, and gambas al ajillo. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the more unusual tapas such as deep-fried scorpion or pig’s ears.
38. See the El Retiro Park in Madrid
If there’s anywhere in Spain that you’re guaranteed to find some peace and quiet, it’s in the El Retiro Park in Madrid. This huge park is located in the centre of the city, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The park is full of beautiful gardens, ponds, and sculptures, and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid for a few hours. There are plenty of benches dotted around if you want to sit and relax, or you can take a stroll through the gardens and admire the flowers.
El Retiro Park is also home to the Crystal Palace, a stunning glass building that was built in 1887. The palace is now used as a museum, and is definitely worth popping into if you’re in the park.
If you want to get active, you can rent a rowing boat and head out onto the artificial lake, or you can rent a bike and cycle around the park. There’s also a playground for the kids, making El Retiro Park the perfect spot for a family day out.
For something a little different, check out this segway tour of El Retiro Park.
39. See the Royal Alcázar Castle in Seville
If there’s one castle in Spain that you absolutely cannot miss, it’s the Royal Alcázar Castle in Seville. This stunning fortress is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country, and for good reason – it’s absolutely beautiful!

The Alcázar Castle was originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, and has been added to and remodeled over the years. The current version of the castle was completed in 1364, and it’s a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
There’s plenty to see inside, with exhibits on Islamic art, Spanish culture, and medieval life. There are also beautiful gardens from Moorish to Renaissance style to explore, as well as a cafe if you need a break from all that sightseeing.
Skip the line with this ticket.
40. Take a cable car ride up Montserrat
For a fun and exciting way to see the Spanish countryside, then take a cable car ride up Montserrat. This mountain is located just an hour outside of Barcelona, and is known for its unique rock formations.
The cable car ride takes just 5 minutes, and gives you sweeping views of the countryside as you ascend. Once you reach the top, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, or you can simply enjoy the views from the viewing platform.
Montserrat is also home to a monastery, which was founded in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 19th and 20th centuries. The monastery is still occupied by around 80 monks, and you can take a tour to see the inside.
The Basilica of Montserrat, housing the famous 12th-century statue of the Black Madonna, and the Montserrat Museum are also worth checking out.
41. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
If you’re looking for a cultural and artistic experience while in Spain, then the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is a must-visit. This world-famous museum is home to an impressive collection of modern art, and the building itself is a work of art.

Designed by architect Frank Gehry and completed in 1997, the museum has been praised for its unique architecture, which curves and bends to create an interesting shape. It’s located on the banks of the Nervion River, and it’s definitely worth taking a walk around the area to take in the stunning surroundings.
Inside, you’ll find paintings, sculptures, installations, and videos from some of the most famous artists of the 20th century. There’s also a cafe and gift shop on site, so you can enjoy some refreshments or pick up a souvenir after your visit.
Take a guided tour (and skip the line) here.
42. Go on a safari in Doñana National Park
Doñana National Park is a nature reserve located in southwestern Spain, and it’s well known for its abundant wildlife. Going on a safari is a great way to see some of the animals up close, and it’s also a lot of fun.
This beautiful national park is home to a wide variety of animals, from deer and boars to birds of prey and endangered Iberian lynxes, and is a paradise for nature lovers as well as bird-watching fanatics.
Because private cars aren’t allowed in the reserve, you’ll need to book a tour in order to explore. I recommend this tour from Seville as you’ll be picked up from your hotel and dropped back after the tour – no organising required on your part!
43. See the Great Pyramids of Guimar
I know, when you think of the Great Pyramids you’re not necessarily thinking about Spain. But did you know that there are in fact pyramids on the Spanish island of Tenerife?
The Great Pyramids of Guimar are located in the town of Guimar on the eastern side of Tenerife, and were believed to have been built in the 19th century. To this day, their origin is unknown.

The pyramids are made up of six stepped platforms, and there’s a small museum on site where you can learn about the history and construction of pyramids all over the world.
The surrounding gardens make for an interesting walk, especially the Poison Garden which houses over 70 varieties of poisonous plants!
Book a tour to the Great Pyramids of Guimar here!
44. Go on a sailing excursion in the Alella wine region
Spain is a great country to explore by land, but what about by sea? If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing experience while in Spain, then consider going on a sailing excursion.
The Alella wine region is located just an hour outside of Barcelona, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a day or afternoon of sailing. You’ll get to see some of the stunning Spanish coastline, and you may even be lucky enough to spot some dolphins or whales.
The Alella wine region is also home to some of the best wineries in Spain. You can stop by a few for tastings, or simply enjoy the views from the boat. I recommend this sailing excursion from Barcelona as it includes snacks and wine/beer/champagne.
45. Sip Sangria in Andalucía
Looking for a quintessentially Spanish experience? Andalucía is the land of Flamenco and bullfights, but it’s also the land of sangria. This delicious wine-based spritzer is perfect for sipping on a hot day in Seville – or any day, really.

There are many different types of sangria, but the most popular version is made with red wine, fresh fruits, and a dash of brandy or liqueur. It’s refreshing, it’s easy to drink, and it’s definitely one of the things you need to try while in Spain.
And if you really like sangria and want to learn how to make it yourself, you should definitely try a sangria making class. You’ll learn about the different types of Sangria, as well as how to make the perfect pitcher. And of course, you’ll get to drink plenty of it too!
FAQs about visiting Spain
How to book a trip to Spain?
If you’re flying, I recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner as you can find the best flight deals available.
For accommodation, I use Booking.com for hotels as it shows me the best reviews for a property. I use Vrbo if I’m after an apartment or unique accommodation.
And to book day trips and activities throughout Spain, GetYourGuide and Viator are your best bet. You can either type in the area and browse the various tours or you can put in more specific activities (i.e. Private Wine Tasting Tour).
When is the best time to visit Spain?
The best time to visit Spain is in the spring or fall when it has mild temperatures and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be excessively hot in many parts of the country, and winter can be quite cold in some areas, especially in the north.
What are some things to pack for a trip to Spain?
Some things to pack for a trip to Spain include comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. You’ll definitely want to pack a bathing suit if you plan on spending time at the beach or enjoying water activities.
Is it safe to travel to Spain?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Spain. However, as with any destination, it’s always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
What are some tips for traveling around Spain?
Some tips for traveling around Spain include taking advantage of the country’s excellent public transportation system, learning a few key phrases in Spanish, and being careful with your belongings.
What are some things to eat in Spain?
Some things to eat in Spain include paella, gazpacho, churros, and jamon. Tapas are also popular, and you can find these small plates of food in just about every restaurant.
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Conclusion: Spain Bucket List
Spain is a beautiful and varied country with something to offer everyone. From stunning architecture and art to sandy beaches and delicious food, there’s no shortage of experiences to be had in Spain.
So if you’re looking to check off some amazing experiences on your Spanish bucket list, look no further! From sailing along the stunning coastline to sipping Sangria in Andalucía, these 45 activities are sure to leave you with some unforgettable memories.

Vourneen is a travel junkie and chronic illness warrior. Although she was late to game in terms of travelling, she has picked up numerous tips and tricks from the almost 30 countries she has visited in the past 5 years.