Are you preparing for trip to visit Spain for the first time?

Spain has a special place in my heart. It is the country where I spent a semester studying abroad in college, and one that I return to visit often. Like Portugal, which it shares the Iberian Peninsula with, Spain is another underrated southern European country. This is especially true when compared to Italy or Greece, for example.

Spain is full of some of the most beautiful places in Europe, home to beautiful buildings, and offers great beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

This post will give you a very detailed list of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers. It is broken down by region, so that you can easily navigate this post.

Map of Spain

This map shows the regions covered in the sections below, for ease of reference:

Click on each of the “pins” on the map for additional information.

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Aragón Region of Spain

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is the capital of the Spanish region Aragón and belongs to the lesser visited cities in Spain. Nevertheless, a visit to Zaragoza is very worthwhile and not only because of its ideal location in the middle between the popular Spanish metropolises Madrid and Barcelona. There are so many great things to see in Zaragoza, and you can easily plan a few days for a visit.

The city’s main sight is the Cathedral, the Catedral-Casílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza, but the locals call it Pilar. Located in the center of the city, the cathedral is hard to miss. Its massive towers overlook the large square in front of the cathedral and enchant visitors from all over the world. It’s especially worth taking a look from the back of the cathedral, which many visitors overlook. Walk along to the stone bridge that crosses the Ebro River. From here, you can admire the massive Pilar in its entirety.

But there are also plenty of great places, cultures, and architecture to discover in the rest of the city. Zaragoza is full of influences from different cultures and eras.

As you stroll through the city’s alleys and discover exciting places, be sure to take the time to enjoy some delicious tapas. Zaragoza is very proud of its tapas culture, and especially in the afternoon hours, you will find locals and visitors alike on the many terraces in the city center enjoying delicious tapas and a cool drink in the sun.

The Best Cities for First timers in Basque Country

Bilbao

Bilbao is a city located in the Basque Country of northern Spain, renowned for its unique mix of contemporary architecture, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine. The city has undergone a significant transformation in the past few decades, largely due to the opening of the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in 1997. The museum has become a symbol of Bilbao’s renewal, attracting visitors from all over the world to witness its stunning titanium-clad structure designed by Frank Gehry.

Along with the Guggenheim, Bilbao boasts many other cultural landmarks, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes and the Azkuna Zentroa, a cultural center housed in a converted wine warehouse. Bilbao is also renowned for its gastronomy, with a plethora of restaurants serving delicious pintxos (tapas) and fresh seafood. Overall, Bilbao offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in art, culture, and culinary delights.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián is a coastal city located in the Basque Country of northern Spain, renowned for its stunning beaches, picturesque bay, and world-class cuisine. The city is nestled between the mountains and the sea, creating a beautiful landscape that attracts tourists from all over the world. San Sebastián is famous for its culinary scene, with a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional pintxo bars serving delicious Basque cuisine.

The city also hosts several cultural events, such as the San Sebastián International Film Festival, Jazzaldia, and the Tamborrada festival, which celebrates the city’s patron saint. With its breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and vibrant culture, San Sebastián is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Spain.

Below are a few attractions you should consider when you visit San Sebastián:

• Parte Vieja – Explore the picturesque Old Town of the city, where you’ll find beautiful architecture, plenty of places to try pintxos (tapas), and shopping.
• Playa de la Concha – One of the highlights of the city, this beach forms a cresent shape along the city’s seaboard.
• Monte Igueldo – If you enjoy beautiful city views, catch a funicular ride to the top of this mountain that offers impressive views of the city below.

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Madrid Region of Spain

Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain, and probably the best known city in the country. It is also the largest city in Spain, and one of the most wealthy in the entire European Union. It has been occupied since ancient times, so boasts a long history, and is currently the official home of the royal family. Some of the most famous attractions include:

• The Royal Palace of Madrid: This palace is built over the Royal Alcázar of Madrid, which was occupied by the Moors until the 11th century. The Palace was constructed in the 18th century, after the Alcázar caught fire. Today it is used primarily for state ceremonies, but is open to the public to tour.
• Prado Museum (Museo del Prado): This museum houses what is considered the single best collection of Spanish art in the world. It is a must for any art enthusiast as the collection of European art found here is very extensive.

There are of course way more things to do in this city – I highly recommend you take some time to shop on the Gran Vía, the selection is just amazing! 

If you’ve been to both Madrid and Barcelona, you may have a strong preference for one over the other. Most people I know do, and I honestly prefer Barcelona myself. That is not to say that Madrid is not an awesome city, but to me Barcelona just feels a bit more different than your typical European city. What do you think? 

Best Cities for First Timers to Visit in the Castile and León Region

Avila

One of the most incredible places in Spain must be Avila! You’ll find this true gem at only an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Madrid. Avila is a wonderful medieval fortified town that’s quite unique, seeing it’s one of only a few medieval cities in the world that is totally enclosed in a nearly intact medieval walls. Avila is well-known for being called ‘’the town of stones and saints’’.

This UNESCO World Heritage City will make you feel as though you have traveled back in time. And that’s why many people choose to visit Avila – its history. At Museo de Ávila you’ll learn all there is to learn about this historical town. And due to its ideal location, many people choose to stay near Avila for a vacation.

There are many other things to do in Avila, such as:

• Walking the city walls
• Admiring the Avila Cathedral
• Entering the city through Puerta Del Alcazar
• Exploring Avila’s old town
• Learning about the history of Basilica San Vicente
• Taking a stroll through the Sephardic Garden Of Moshe De Leon

Avila is small enough to explore the entire town on your own; you won’t need to go on a guided tour. After a day of exploring you should get dinner at Los Candiles, a steakhouse with local cuisine. At this restaurant, I enjoyed the best Spanish dinner I’ve ever had!

So when visiting Madrid, you should go on a day trip to Avila! This town is more than worth visiting!

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Catalonia Region of Spain

Barcelona

Barcelona is not just my favorite city in Spain, it is one of my favorite cities in the world! I love this city because it offers so much its visitors. I mean, how many cities can you visit where you can spend one day visiting the beach AND the mountains? In addition to what you can do in the city, there is also a rich history here, as Barcelona was originally founded by the Romans. There is also no shortage of delicious tapas and sweets to try, at restaurants like Tapeo and Gourmet Sensei.

Some of my favorite attractions in this city include:

• La Sagrada Familia: The world-renowned cathedral designed by the whimsical architect Antoni Gaudí. It has been under construction since 1882, but is finally nearing completion. This building is beautiful, with amazing lighting in the interior and a style that is quite unique compared to your standard cathedral. Throughout the city you can see many of Gaudí’s other architectural designs. Overall, his contributions to the city give it a unique look that you just have to see!
• Tibidabo Mountain: This is the highest point in Barcelona and offers amazing views of the entire city. You can also visit a small theme park and a cathedral while on the mountain.
• La Barceloneta: This is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Barcelona. There are plenty of hotels and places to eat nearby as well.

I could go on and on about this city – I just love it! In my opinion, Barcelona is the absolute best place to visit in Spain for first timers, as there is simply so much to do there. Please check out my 4-day travel guide for Barcelona for more information.

Figueres

If you’re going to be visiting Barcelona, or anywhere in Catalonia, make sure to add a day trip to Figueres to your list. Translating directly to ‘town of fig trees’, Figueres is a great “off the beaten path” destination. This small town is located less than two hours up the coast, north of Barcelona, and is accessible by car, bus and train (the quickest option). The main attraction here is the fact that it is the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. In fact, the largest attraction in town is the Teatre-Museu Dalí, a museum designed by the man himself, exhibiting the largest collection of his works. You’ll also find lesser-known spots like the Sant Ferran Castle and the Toy Museum (Museu Del Joguet De Catalunya) to explore.

Like the rest of Spain, Figueres has several tapas restaurants, such as El Dynamic Bar, about town. You will also find plenty of options for paella at places like Cafeteria Astoria and Iberico at Cafeteria Il Museo. All these options are widely available on many local menus, however. And I always recommend a stop at the local grocery store (Bonpreu) to pick up some snacks for your trip.

Walking tours are available if you prefer a narrated stroll when exploring a new city. You can also spend a whole day wandering the streets and alleyways, discovering plenty of unique architecture, sculptures and murals scattered around town. 

Girona

Positioned in the northeastern region of Catalonia, Spain, Girona is truly a hidden gem that feels like another world. You’ll feel like you’re being transported back in time to medieval Europe, with the city’s narrow streets and alleys and Gothic and Romanesque architecture at every corner. It’s also conveniently close to Barcelona and can be reached via a quick 30-45 minute train ride from Barcelona-Sants. 

Amongst many other things, one city’s main draws are its rich history and stunning architecture. From the iconic Cathedral of Girona, which dates back to the 11th century (and is featured in the popular show Game of Thrones), to the ancient walls that protected the city long ago, there’s plenty to soak in as you walk through the streets of Girona.

There’s also an amazingly delicious culinary scene, with some of the best restaurants in Catalonia serving up traditional and modern dishes. For truly local dining, be sure to try some Catalan specialties including “coca de vidre” (a type of thin and crispy flatbread), “butifarra” (a type of sausage), and that world-famous (and amazingly delicious) paella. If you’re a caffeine lover, there are also many coffee shops in Girona to choose from. Federal Cafe is easily one of the best options in the city. 

There are many guided tours to choose from in Girona, whether you’re more into history, architecture, food, or even exploring the Game of Thrones filming spots.

Overall, Girona is an amazing little city that deserves to be on any (and every) Spain itinerary. With its timeless architecture, amazing Catalan food, and many experiences to soak in, there’s something for everyone in this quaint medieval city.

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Murcia Region of Spain

Cartagena

While many sun-seeking tourists to Spain flock to places like Tarrifa, Cadiz, or Malaga to enjoy the Mediterranean sea and sun, not many people know about the hidden beauty of Cartagena in southern Spain. Not to be confused with the city of Cartagena in Colombia, this Spanish coastal destination actually is actually bursting with great beaches, food, and a rich ancient history. 

This vibrant port city has been around for millennia which is evident in the several archaeological sites from different eras that can be found around the city. But the most noticeable feature in Cartagena is the Roman theatre of Carthage Nova, which marks the era of Roman domination. Perched right at the entrance to the city, the theatre offers a great visual experience with amazing views of the coast and adjacent mountains. A slightly steep hike up the back of the Roman theatre is a must, as you get to enjoy the amazing view. There is also a Roman Museum of Archaeology that can be visited within the grounds.

Moving from history, another main attraction in Cartagena is its array of beautiful beaches. In fact, it is the city with the most beaches in Spain, and fewer tourists than other places! Other activities that shouldn’t be missed include visiting the various museums in the city like the Naval museum, taking a boat ride along the bay, and marveling at the mix of architecture in Calle Mayor.

For an amazing culinary experience, try out the meat and tapas at Abrasame Grill & Tapas. The meals are great and the prices reasonable. Also, be sure to try the delicious street churros!

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Andalusian Region of Spain

Cádiz

A hidden gem in Spain, Cadiz remains a little under the radar compared to Andalusian favorites Seville and Granada, but this seaside city has so much to offer! It’s an intriguing mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery. 

The beautiful beaches in Cadiz are a huge draw for travelers looking for sand and sea. You’ll be spoiled for choice: visit their urban beaches for a convenient day out by the water or take a drive and discover hidden coves and unspoiled beaches. Either way, you’re guaranteed stretches of golden sand and warm, clear blue waters. And with year-round sun and mild weather even in winter, this is a beach destination you can visit any time of the year!

But Cadiz is more than just a beach town. It’s one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe and its historic center is full of treasures. Simply wandering down the narrow, cobblestoned streets is a delight and you never know when you might come across an old church or square that’s hundreds of years old. Notable landmarks in Cadiz’s Old Town include:

• Roman Theatre of Cadiz: This one is free to enter and definitely worth a visit
• Cadiz Cathedral: The cathedral boasts an impressive interior
• Torre Tavira: If you are keen on getting great views, this one provides a bird’s eye view of the town
• Central Market: This is a great place to sample sample local food

A great way to see the Old Town and learn more about the history of the city is to take a walking tour where you’ll get to see the highlights.

Oh, and don’t forget to try some seafood while you’re in Cadiz! Fish and shellfish are the town’s specialty. You can’t go wrong with fried fish and prawn fritters but if you want to try something more traditional, then put in an order for papas con choco (a delicious cuttlefish and potato stew).

Córdoba

Córdoba is another city in Andalucía that displays a strong Arab influence. This city is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers because it is just so incredibly picturesque. This city is known for the beautifully decorated patios that many residents have in the front of their homes. These patios likely originate from the Roman atrium; and the tradition carried on by the Arab residents in the region. You can find them in the Jewish Quarter of the city, most notably down the Calleja de las Flores.

You should also check out the following sights while in the city:

• The Mezquita: This place of worship originally started out as a mosque, constructed in the 8th century. It was converted to a cathedral in the 13th century, but still retains much of its original architecture. This is an absolute must-see if you visit Córdoba.
• Roman Ruins: Cordóba offers a few places to check out some ancient Roman ruins. Make a stop at the Roman Temple of Córdoba and the Roman Bridge, which serves as a pedestrian walkway today.

Granada

Granada is the first city I’ll mention in the autonomous region of Andalucía. This region constitutes the entirety of southern Spain, and is most similar to the view that people have of Spain. This is especially true if they have not Spain visited before. This city was the final hold of the Islamic Emirate in Spain and marks the location of the Reconquista of Al-Andalus (Andalucía).

The reason why I think Granada is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers is that it is quite a charming and romantic city. Another factor that makes it special is how easy it is to see the legacy of Arab influence within the city’s architecture. This gives the city a unique vibe that can only be found in southern Spain. Some key attractions include:

• The Alhambra: This palace served as the home for the last Muslim Emirs in Granada. Originally constructed as a small fortress over Roman ruins in the 9th century, it was rebuilt as a palace in the 14th century. The palace sits atop a mountain overlooking the city and is well-kept, with beautiful gardens throughout.
• Albaicín District: This district was one of the oldest Muslim cultural centers in Granada. Itserved as the Moorish district during the time of Muslim rule in the city. It still displays the winding walkways and beautiful building façades from the middle ages. This area surrounds the Alhambra, so it’s any easy addition to your itinerary if you plan to visit the palace. Take some time to stroll around or make a stop at a local Flamenco spot, such as the Cuevas Los Tarantos. Here you can experience this intriguing and artistic form of traditional Spanish dance and music.
• The Granada Cathedral: This gorgeous cathedral was constructed after the Reconquista and another beautiful Spanish construction. It is connected to the Royal Chapel, which is the final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. This cathedral is centrally located in Granada, so it is a perfect stop for a day spent in the main part of the city.

Frigiliana

Are you looking for an off-the-beaten track destination that offers a unique combination of culture and natural beauty? Then Frigiliana in Spain is the perfect place for your next holiday. Located just 20 minutes from beautiful beaches in Nerja, this charming white village offers visitors plenty to explore—from its narrow alleys and moorish architecture, to its local tapas bars, wine bodegas and artisanal products. Best of all, it’s still relatively affordable compared to other Spanish destinations.

Frigiliana is great for taking photos as well as exploring on foot; you can easily spend hours wandering through the winding streets admiring the quaint houses with their bright flowers cascading over balconies. If you want more than just a walking tour of the town then there are lots of hiking trails within easy reach – such as visiting the Lost Village Acebuchal or one of the many old churches where you can keep an eye out for stunning mosaics hidden in the ancient walls. And if you don’t feel like walking around town too much then renting a car will give you access to day trips away from Frigiliana – perhaps up into the mountains or along the coast.

Those looking for more than just sightseeing will be pleased to find that there are a variety of accommodation options in and around Frigiliana, ranging from rustic guesthouses and small hotels, to larger fincas available to rent. So whether it’s a romantic getaway you’re after or a family holiday, Frigiliana has something to suit everyone.

Málaga

Málaga lies on the Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun), and as the name suggests, it gets sun nearly every day of the year. The city features history dating back to when it was founded by the Phoenicians as Malaka in 770 BC. It was one of the last strongholds of the Arab rule in Spain, and as such features historical sites from both cultures. Some of the most popular sites to visit in Málaga include:

• Alcazaba of Málaga: This fortress was built initially by the Phoenicians in 600BC, but it was greatly expanded by the Arabs from the 8th century AD to the 14th century. It’s a long hike to the top, especially on a hot day, but the views make it completely worth it.
• Cathedral of Málaga: This cathedral is built in the Renaissance architectural tradition. It has an unfinished south tower and because of this, it is called “La Manquita” by the locals.
• Museo Picasso Málaga: This museum offers a comprehensive view of Picasso’s work from childhood until death. If you enjoy art, this one is absolutely a must-see.

Marbella

A lovely and ritzy option, this Spanish city sits on the Costa Del Sol, and is a pretty popular tourist destinations. With its lovely beaches, great restaurants, and high-end shopping options, it’s a great place to go for a bit of escape from reality.

If you decide to check it out, here are a few ideas:

• Puerto Banús Marina: This area is just lovely for a nice stroll, particularly in the morning or in the evening so you can watch the sunrise / sunset.
• Marbella Old Town: Stop here for a taste of 15th century Spain. This street features brightly colored homes with lovely flower boxes.
• La Cañada: If shopping is your thing, you will not want to miss this huge shopping mall. It has over 100,000m sq ft, so you can literally shop until you drop.

Sevilla

Sevilla (Seville) is the capital of Andalusia and the forth largest city in Spain. It has a very similar history as Granada and Córdoba, and was actually once part of the Caliphate of Córdoba. It is a yet another architecturally beautiful city, as shown by some of its top attractions:

• Alcázar de Sevilla: Originally constructed by Arabs in the 8th century, it was expanded by Spanish royalty in the Middle Ages. This palace still houses the royal family today, and includes lush gardens in addition to the breathtaking edifices.
• Plaza de España: Instead of a traditional square, this plaza is shaped as a semi-circle and is surrounded by intricately painted, columned buildings. It’s a great place for an evening stroll or for people-watching.
• Seville Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage Site began as a mosque in the 12th century AD. As Spain retook the area from the Arabs, it was rebuilt as a cathedral in the 16th century. It features a beautiful interior and a 343 ft tall bell tower called the Giralda.

Tarifa

Most people visit Tarifa for the amazing kite surfing opportunities. Located on the southern tip of Spain, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean Sea, there is almost guaranteed to be good wind. But the city has so much more to offer, making it attractive to other travelers as well.

The main attraction is the Castillo de Guzman El Bueno. Built in 960, it is strongly fortified. During your visit, you can walk the thick walls, go up to the roof for amazing views of the city and read up on its history in the small but informative exhibition. It overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar with views of Morocco on the other side when the weather is nice.

Tarifa is small and the old town basically car-free, making it the perfect place to explore on foot. You can stroll through the narrow alleys lined with white-washed houses and look at the little boutiques that fill the centre. There are plenty of bars and restaurants around to enjoy the local specialties, many of them based on fish.

I recommend Café Azul for traditional breakfast and El Lola or Los Mellis for lunch or dinner. Both are frequented by locals as well as tourists and the food is fresh and tasty. You should try the local tuna, served in many forms, one better than the next.  

If you are staying longer, you might want to consider a day or overnight trip to Tangier in Morocco. There are ferries running almost every hour and Tangier is a fascinating city.

The Best Cities for First Timers in the Valencia Region of Spain

Valencia

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, and can be found near the coast in eastern Spain. I spent many weekends here during my time in Spain, as I studied just 30 minutes outside of the city. It is a very vibrant city that offers a few unique attractions and experiences to visitors:

• City of Arts and Sciences: This is one of Spain’s top attractions and features several buildings. These include a planetarium, interactive science museum, and an opera house; to name a few. In addition to being a great center for learning, the buildings themselves are stunning and uniquely designed.