The 10 best cities to visit in Spain – A Spaniard’s choice

Traveling through Spain is something that I recommend to every lover of culture and history. Not only because it’s my country, but also because the richness and variety that this corner of the world offers make it really hard not to find that destination that captivates you. There’s a reason why we are one of the most visited countries in the world!

When we plan a trip to another country, especially when it’s our first visit, the first question we ask ourselves is: which are the must-visit destinations? Well, although there are wonderful places that are not in this ranking, I believe that these are the 10 cities in Spain that you should include on your bucket list because they are truly worth it.

I admit it hasn’t been an easy selection, and perhaps you might miss some cities that frequently appear in tourist guides. But, besides my personal criteria, I’ve tried to ensure that the list captures, as much as possible, the essence, history, and cultural diversity of our country, beyond simply following a super-standard tourist route.

Of course, you’ll find the major capitals, but there might be some surprising proposals. So here’s my selection of the 10 best cities to visit in Spain. Take note!

My ultimate selection: the 10 best cities to visit in Spain

1. Madrid: The city that never sleeps

© Photo by Kristijan Arsov on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Madrid

I couldn’t resist. I had to start with the place that has welcomed me for years. And, although my heart may blind me, there’s no doubt that Madrid should be among the top destinations on your list. Furthermore, its central location and good transportation connections make it a perfect starting point for visiting other essential cities in Spain.

In the bustling capital of Spain, modernity and history go hand in hand. You can wander through the streets of what once was the capital of one of the greatest empires in the world and then visit a cutting-edge museum or book tickets to a musical. Whether strolling along Gran Vía, observing the signs of its theaters, taking a leisurely walk in Retiro Park, being enchanted by the majesty of the Royal Palace, or getting lost for hours in the Prado Museum, whatever option you choose, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression!

2. Barcelona: Cosmopolitan and Avant-garde

© Photo by Daniel Corneschi on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Barcelona

Another destination that cannot be missed in a visit to Spain is Barcelona, ​​which is also the place where I was born not so long ago… ☺ This Mediterranean city captivates with the beauty of its modernist architecture, embodied by Gaudí and his most universally known work: the Sagrada Familia. Those of us who grew up in this city (and I would say the rest of the Spaniards too) eagerly await the historic moment of seeing it finally completed! Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, and Park Güell are just some of the places that will make you understand why Barcelona is a destination beloved by tourists.

3. Granada: The Alhambra and Andalusian Magic

© Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Granada

Another destination that cannot be missed in a visit to Spain is the south, and when in Spain we talk about the south, we talk about Andalusia. This region of Spain, with its unique charm, the cheerful character of its people, and a culture that has crossed borders, captivates everyone who visits. If you could only visit one destination in this fascinating region, I wouldn’t hesitate: that destination would be Granada.

This city holds one of the greatest treasures, not only of Andalusia but of the entire Spain: the Alhambra, declared a World Heritage Site. A unique testimony of Spain’s dazzling Moorish past, it is a must-visit for anyone who decides to explore the southern part of the country. But Granada is much more than the Alhambra; the city itself is pure Andalusia and, moreover, it’s one of the best destinations to enjoy a good “tapas”!

4. Toledo: The City of Three Cultures

© Photo by Sung Shin on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Toledo

In the center of Spain, near the capital, there is another essential destination and a city that particularly has me enchanted: Toledo.

If you’re in Madrid, I wouldn’t hesitate to dedicate a day to visit it. Known as the City of Three Cultures, it reflects, like no other place in Spain, the multicultural past of our country. When Madrid wasn’t even a point on the map, Toledo stood as the epicenter of Castile, a place where Christians, Jews, and Muslims joined hands, leaving an indelible legacy in the city.

Nestled in a privileged location next to the Tagus River, the panoramic view of this medieval city is absolutely breathtaking.

5. Córdoba: The Mosque and the Charm of its Streets

© Photo by Alex Block on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Córdoba

Another Andalusian city, brimming with charm, is Córdoba. Known for its Mosque-Cathedral, unique in the world, it’s a destination that undoubtedly should be on the list of the best cities to visit in Spain.

What centuries ago was the largest city in Europe is today a picturesque city where you can get lost. Explore the old town, declared a World Heritage Site, and discover its cheerful and colorful courtyards, characteristic of this city (spring is an ideal time to do so). I assure you that the experience will be worth it!

6. Segovia: Roman Legacy and Majesty

© Photo by Wojciech Portnicki on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Segovia

Segovia is another destination that should not be missing from your itinerary. If you visit Madrid, it’s a perfect day trip as it’s only an hour away from the capital. Its iconic Roman aqueduct, in excellent condition, is one of Spain’s most spectacular Roman legacies. With almost 30 meters in height, you’ll be impressed to see how its arches stand without any type of mortar. An extraordinary example of Roman engineering prowess!

But even without its aqueduct, Segovia would still deserve its place on this list. Its imposing Alcazar, reminiscent of a fairy tale, as well as its charming old town, will not leave you indifferent.

7. Ávila: Medieval City

© Photo by Mario La Pergola on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Ávila

This top 10 must also include Ávila, a charming city that is also a short distance from Madrid. This beautiful city is a place where time seems to have stopped. Its medieval walls, surrounding the old town, are its hallmark and make the city the best-preserved walled enclosure in Europe. Strolling through its cobbled streets and squares will transport you to another era.

Furthermore, Ávila is a fantastic gastronomic destination. If you visit the city (and you’re not a vegetarian, of course), don’t miss trying its tasty meats, prepared simply but deliciously. And if desserts are your weakness, the “yemas de Santa Teresa” are for you!

8. San Sebastián: Northern Beauty and Gastronomy

© Photo by ultrash ricco on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: San Sebastián

Although the image of Spain beyond its borders is strongly associated with the south and beach destinations, as a Spaniard, I would consider it almost a crime not to include a northern destination in this list. The north of Spain may be one of the least frequented places by international tourists, but it enjoys a well-deserved reputation among Spaniards for the exuberance of its landscapes and its spectacular gastronomy.

A city that stands out for its beauty and elegance is San Sebastián / Donostia. Known for La Concha Beach and the pintxos, it’s a destination you must include in your itinerary if you truly want to discover the most genuine Spain.

9. Seville: Flamenco Passion and Andalusian Grace

© Photo by Natálie Viklická on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Seville

The capital of Andalusia, Seville, will captivate you with the passion of flamenco and the elegance of Mudéjar architecture. La Giralda, Plaza de España, and the Real Alcázar are just some of its treasures, but above all, Seville conquers all who visit it for its lively atmosphere and the joy of its people. As a Spanish song says: “Seville has a special color”

10. Santiago de Compostela: Camino and Spirituality

© Photo by Victoriano Izquierdo on Unsplash // The 10 best cities to visit in Spain: Santiago de Compostela

Another destination that you should include in your route through Spain is Santiago de Compostela. Although tourism in this city has spectacularly taken off in recent years, Santiago has been receiving visitors from all over the world for centuries. Its Cathedral, which stands solemn in the monumental Plaza del Obradoiro, houses the remains of the Apostle Saint James and is the final destination of pilgrims who walk the Camino de Santiago. Whether you arrive on foot or by other means, this city brimming with spirituality is well worth a visit.

These are the ten top cities of Spain that I always recommend visiting. If you truly want to discover the essence of our country, savor its cultural richness and gastronomy, and explore its history, don’t hesitate to include at least some of them in your itinerary. Which one do you like the most?