Spain is one of the most diverse and visually spectacular countries in Europe. Think whitewashed homes scattered in a sea of olive groves; ornate and detailed architecture within old city walls; mouth-watering tapas and delectable wines; the raw emotion of a rhythmic and colourful flamenco dance. The passion and zest for life in Spain is intoxicating.
Littered with bustling and cosmopolitan cities - visit Madrid and wander its famous Prado Museum, dine in fine restaurants or shop in its many elegant boutiques. Observe Gothic architecture and Gaudi’s surreal Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, marvel at the unique art of Picasso and Dali, dance the night away after a stroll along Las Ramblas.
Behold the intricate beauty of the Alhambra in Granada – the ultimate in Muslim architecture and one of the most remarkable fortresses and Moorish palaces ever built, backed majestically by the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains. Swim in warm, turquoise-coloured waters on the Costa del Sol, spending time wandering around the charming city of Malaga. Visit the birthplace of Pablo Picasso where you’ll find a permanent collection of his drawings, photographs and correspondence.
Explore the dramatic coastline of Costa Brava with its craggy cliffs and secluded coves or see the tiny self-governing British colony on Spain’s southernmost point in Gibraltar. The famous rock has a curious mix of cultures that is neither uniquely British nor Spanish.
At the opposite end of Spain you can enjoy the beach, bars and tapas in the lively coastal city of San Sebastian, scenically located in the Bay of Biscay and close to the border with France. Pamplona is best-known as the home of the massive Running of the Bulls Festival held over a week every July. Since being immortalised by Ernest Hemmingway in his book, The Sun Always Rises, it has attracted hordes of tourists wanting to witness and experience the chaotic and death-defying event.The world-famous Guggenheim Museum can be found in Bilbao. The design of the unusually magnificent building which houses the breathtaking museum is both intriguing and mystifying.
Sun, sand, relaxation and extravagant decadence, opulence and hedonism can be found thriving on the beautiful island of Ibiza. Located in a group called the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is notorious for having what many consider to be the best nightlife in all of Europe while the island of Mallorca attracts a more high-class clientele, long attracting the rich and famous who want to relax in sun-soaked waters. Menorca is the quietest of the group offering secluded white sand beaches, hidden coves and Bronze Age megaliths.
The pretty university city of Seville is a delightful conglomeration of influences with architectural styles ranging from the Roman acropolis, Moorish, Spanish Renaissance blending with a strong Andalusian culture. The result is romantic and intoxicating. Seville is home to one of the most impressive cathedrals in all of Spain with 44 chapels alone and is the biggest Gothic edifice ever constructed. The nearby Sepulcro de Critobal Colon is the tomb of the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, said to hold his remains. The extravagant Alcazar is a stunning blend of architectural styles, built by the Moors in the 7th century and embellished greatly during the 15th century. Seville’s lively streets oozing with students and tourists alike are lined with vibrant bars and where you will find some of the best tapas, Flamenco and bullfighting in all of Spain.
