Last updated on May 6, 2023
Spain is an immensely popular European holiday destination, frequented by tourists from around the world. Most people that go to Spain visit Madrid, the nation’s capital, or the Costa del Sol. However, there’s a lot more to Spain. If you plan on visiting, then rather than going to places swarming with tourists and holidaymakers, why not go somewhere that’s a little more unique?
This post will cover Spain’s best holiday destinations in more detail, so you can make a better decision about where to visit on your upcoming trip there:
Marbella
Before getting into more unique and interesting locations, let’s first cover Marbella. Marbella is in the Costa del Sol. It is without a doubt one of Spain’s most popular tourist locations, mainly because of its beautiful weather and great beaches. It is a very popular spot for British tourists. If you are planning on visiting, then this is what you need to know: You need a luxury car if you’re going to Marbella.
Marbella is a lot like Dubai, a playground for the rich – especially if you’re into Michelin-starred dining and rooftop living. If you’re going there to party and meet people, then a luxury car will make you look good. It should also be noted that the train service from Malaga (which is the location of the nearest airport) to Marbella is unpredictable. Renting a car will mean that you are able to travel from Malaga to Marbella in comfort, along the highway that runs between the two cities.
Tetuán
Tetuán is the capital of the Spanish protectorate in Morocco, or in other words, Spanish Morocco. It is technically a part of Spain. It can be reached through Tangier, a Moroccan port city, and former home of beat generation author William S. Burroughs. Tetuán is a beautifully unique city and a mix of Moroccan and Spanish culture. It’s also a very cheap city to visit, so if you are on a budget, it is a great way to experience history without spending a fortune. If you are interested in Spain’s colonial past, then Tetuán is worth visiting.
Granada
The Alhambra in Granada is a famous Spanish fortress, built and inhabited by the Nasrid. The Nasrids were a Muslim dynasty that ruled the Andalusia region of Spain for many years. After the Nasrid dynasty fell, the fort was then used by Christian settlers.
The Alhambra is an incredible building, unlike anything else anywhere in the world. It is truly spectacular. The Alhambra is located in the Andalusia region, which has many other Islamic buildings from the Nasrid period of Spain’s history. You do have to pay for tickets to get into the Alhambra, but it is definitely worth it.
Cordoba
Cordoba is a city in Andalusia, Spain. Cordoba is most famous for its Roman bridge. However, the city has many other interesting historical sites worth visiting. If you are a fan of history and want to travel purely to learn about Spain’s unique past, then why not visit Cordoba? Cordoba is in the same region as Alhambra, so you can travel between the two quite easily. It is worth noting that the Andalusia region can get very hot, so if you suffer from heat sensitivities it’s best to visit during the winter. Visiting during the summer could be very challenging for you.
Seville
Seville is another Spanish city, most famous for its cathedral. The Seville Cathedral is actually a World Heritage site. An interesting fact about the Seville Cathedral is that it is the resting place of Christopher Columbus, the explorer who supposedly discovered ‘the New World.’ Seville has many other interesting historical sites that you can visit. Many of Seville’s historical sites are free to enter. It is a very beautiful city, with fantastic nightlife and a great culinary scene, also. If you enjoy eating Spanish food, then you won’t find many cities better than Seville. Seville is Andalusia’s capital.
Valencia
Valencia is a Spanish city, famous for its bell tower. However, as with Seville and the other cities mentioned here, there is a lot more to the city than a single location. If you plan on visiting then it is a good idea to do your research first so that you know what’s worth seeing. Not doing your research could lead to you not being able to fit everything into your schedule. Food in the city of Valencia is unique and very tasty. Be sure to eat out when you visit.
Spain is a country with a unique history. Most people visit the nation just to party, however, there’s also lots to do for history buffs. If you plan on visiting, then research destinations so you can find the ones most suited to your interests. If you do want to party, then Malaga, Ibiza, Majorca, and Marbella are all great places to visit.
