From the sun-kissed beaches of the Costa del Sol to the surreal architecture of Barcelona and the flamenco rhythms of Andalusia — Spain is a country that moves to its own beat. Whether you’re drawn by food, art, or culture, this guide will help you plan your Spanish journey the Catterfly way — with local experiences, slow travel, and plenty of stories to take home.
Why Visit Spain
We don't even need to spell it out, but just in case you need to hear it again, Spain is the perfect blend of the energy of Europe and a laid-back Mediterranean spirit. It’s a destination where history lives on every street corner — from Moorish palaces and Roman ruins to contemporary art galleries and culinary revolutions.
Highlights:
- Endless variety: cosmopolitan cities, charming villages, and natural wonders
- Year-round appeal thanks to its mild climate
- Rich regional diversity — each region feels like a different country
- Exceptional food, wine, and culture
Best Time to Visit Spain
Spain’s climate varies widely across regions, so the best time depends on where and what you plan to see. Fair warning though, summer is HOT hot.
Season Highlights Recommended Regions
| Spring (March–May) | Best weather, blooming countryside | Andalusia, Madrid, Seville, Valencia |
| Summer (June–August) | Beach season, lively festivals | Balearic Islands, Costa Brava, Basque Country |
| Autumn (September–November) | Ideal for city breaks, harvest time | Rioja, Barcelona, Madrid |
| Winter (December–February) | Fewer crowds, winter sun in the south | Canary Islands, Granada, Cordoba |
Catterfly Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, aim for early morning and evening sightseeing to beat the heat. Spring and autumn are perfect for cultural touring and wine routes.
Top Destinations in Spain
1. Barcelona – Where Art Meets the Sea
Gaudí’s dreamlike creations, tapas-filled evenings, and a Mediterranean breeze — Barcelona is a feast for the senses.
Don’t Miss: Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta Beach, and local markets like La Boqueria.
Don’t Miss: Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta Beach, and local markets like La Boqueria.
2. Madrid – Spain’s Regal Capital
A vibrant city of royal palaces, grand boulevards, and world-class museums.
Don’t Miss: Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace, and tapas in La Latina.
Don’t Miss: Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace, and tapas in La Latina.
3. Andalusia – The Soul of Spain
From the Alhambra’s Moorish splendor to the white villages of Ronda, Andalusia captures Spain’s essence.
Don’t Miss: Granada, Seville, Cordoba, and a traditional flamenco show.
Don’t Miss: Granada, Seville, Cordoba, and a traditional flamenco show.
4. Basque Country – Culinary and Coastal Charms
Known for its green hills, surf towns, and Michelin-starred cuisine.
Don’t Miss: San Sebastián’s pintxos bars, Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, and coastal drives to Getaria.
Don’t Miss: San Sebastián’s pintxos bars, Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, and coastal drives to Getaria.
5. Valencia – The Birthplace of Paella
A perfect blend of history, modern architecture, and Mediterranean beaches.
Don’t Miss: City of Arts and Sciences, Old Town, Turia Gardens, and a seaside paella feast.
Don’t Miss: City of Arts and Sciences, Old Town, Turia Gardens, and a seaside paella feast.
6. The Balearic Islands – Sun, Sea & Style
Each island has its own character — Ibiza’s energy, Mallorca’s mountains, and Menorca’s quiet coves.
7. Northern Spain – Green, Wild, and Untouched
Explore the coastal beauty of Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria — rugged cliffs, forests, and charming fishing villages.
Getting Around Spain
Spain has one of Europe’s best transportation networks, making it easy to explore.
- By Train: Renfe’s high-speed AVE trains connect Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia efficiently.
- By Car: Ideal for Andalusia, Northern Spain, or smaller towns where public transport is limited.
- By Air: Domestic flights save time for long distances, like between mainland Spain and the islands.
Catterfly Tip: Combine train travel with short drives to uncover rural gems between cities.
Spanish Cuisine: A Journey Through Taste
Spanish food is about sharing and savoring — from simple tapas to elaborate regional dishes.
Must-Try Experiences:
- Tapas crawl in Seville or Granada
- Wine tasting in Rioja
- Paella by the sea in Valencia
- Cider houses in the Basque Country
Festivals and Culture
Spain’s festivals are legendary — colorful, chaotic, and full of life.
Notable Events:
- La Tomatina (Buñol, August)
- Semana Santa (Holy Week, Seville)
- San Fermín (Pamplona, July)
- Feria de Abril (Seville, April)
Where to Stay
Spain offers everything from boutique heritage hotels to countryside fincas and seaside resorts.
Top Picks:
- Paradores: Historic buildings turned into state-run hotels.
- Boutique Stays: Ideal in cities like Granada or Madrid.
- Rural Escapes: Farmhouses and vineyards for a slow-travel experience.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Language: Spanish is widely spoken; English is common in tourist areas.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up or 5–10% is appreciated.
- Safety: Spain is very safe but be mindful of pickpockets in busy cities and tourist areas
- Visa: Schengen visa applies for most non-EU travelers. Check latest visa regulations for more information.
Suggested Spain Itineraries
- 7 Days in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville highlights
- 10 Days in Spain: Classic loop covering Andalusia and central Spain
- 2 Weeks in Spain: Add Northern Spain or the islands for a deeper experience
Spain isn’t a trip — it’s a story that unfolds one region at a time. Whether you’re tracing Moorish footsteps, wandering through vineyards, or tasting your way through tapas bars, every journey here reveals a new side of its soul.
Let Catterfly help you plan it your way — with expert insights, local connections, and experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
