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Spain
Destination Guide
The Ultimate Guide Before You Plan for your Next Trip
Spain is a country with a rich, colorful and diverse history, a land of many varied regions and a people who are proud and welcoming. Looking historically, culturally, gastronomically and geographically, it is said to be one of the most diverse countries of Europe. For many first-time visitors to Spain, the expectations are of frequently used and evocative media images of sangria, sombreros and bullfights. While all of these plays a part within traditional Spanish culture, there is much more that makes modern Spain a progressive, diverse and cosmopolitan society. From its Roman relics to Muslim palaces, from baroque cathedrals and Modernista constructions, the country is a treasure chest of artistic and architectural marvels across a matchless cultural palette. While some people prefer to go skiing in the winter months, others prefer to sunbathe on the coast. Not many countries can offer both options during the same month, but Spain can. As a tourist destination, Spain is often mistakenly stereotyped as a sun-and-sea location having most beautiful spots. Stretching sun-drenched and untamed to the south of the wild and majestic Pyrenees, this passionate nation works a mysterious magic. Spain is littered with hundreds of glittering beaches; flamenco bailaors (dancers) swirl in flounces of color; and toreros (bullfighters) strut their stuff in the bullrings.
Attractions in Spain
Emerald green mountains seem to slide into the wild blue Atlantic in the north. Proud, solitary castles and medieval towns are strewn across the interior. White villages glitter in inland Andalucía. Rugged mountain ranges such as the Sierra Nevada (Europe’s most southerly ski resort) are draped across the country. The Celtic music of Cantabria, Asturias & Galicia reminds one of the misty lands of Brittany, Scotland and Ireland. Indeed, if there is one thing Spaniards love, it is to eat, drink and be merry, one can gobble up tapas over fine wine in Madrid.
Madrid
Madrid
Madrid shows the onlooker multiple faces that history has left behind, such as its medieval origins as an Arab-fortress characterized by its ancient buildings and the smell of the taverns. The courtesan district of the Hapsburgs characterized by Phillip II and his Renaissance and Baroque style buildings like those in the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa, Madrid of the Bourbons and the complex town planning schemes of Charles III, the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains and the Puerta de Alcal are world famous. There are also contemporary Madrid avenues such as Gran Vía, Castellana, the district of Salamanca, Plaza de Castilla, Parque del Oeste, University Campus, commercial and financial zones of Modern Madrid, the emblematic Las Ventas Bullring and the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium.
Cadiz
Cadiz
In its past, there have been several different people who have controlled the area and they have all had an impact on the buildings, monuments and traditions. On the southern most coast of Spain this important seafaring city has preserved an important historical heritage. Cadiz has excellent beaches and a delicious local cuisine. The Costa de la Luz, divided between the provinces of Huelva and Cadiz, also offers a host of destinations for culture and leisure. UNESCO has declared the Doñana National Park, a World Heritage Site.
Salamanca
Salamanca
Salamanca University was the first to be founded in
Spain and is also one of the oldest in Europe. It
was once regarded as one of the best European
universities and was attended by some of the
greatest and most famous Spanish thinkers, artists
and writers.
Valencia
Valencia
It is the capital of the Valencia province on the river Turia, in the richest agricultural area of Spain. It is a charming city, light, carefree and confident, where everyone has some claim to an artistic temperament.