This distinctive historic metropolis by no means fails to allure me! It’s breathtakingly straightforward on the attention, with a heady mixture of Moorish palaces, blooming gardens, and sweeping panoramic views, all wrapped in an intoxicating allure the place historical past, artwork, and pure magnificence weave a very magical spell!
Nestled on the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Andalucía, Granada is a mid-sized metropolis with a inhabitants of round 232,000, boasting prehistoric origins and a wealthy mix of Islamic, Jewish, and Christian heritage.
I spent a beautiful three days right here exploring the jaw-dropping Alhambra Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Web site) and its ornate Generalife gardens, wandering via the maze-like streets of the historic Albaicín district, having fun with a fiery flamenco efficiency, discovering the awe-inspiring Granada Cathedral and visiting the Royal Chapel the place the Catholic Monarchs relaxation.
Location: Andalusia Area, South
Location Map
Finest time to go to: spring and autumn (for cooler temperatures)
My favorite highlights…
Staying on the fantastic 4-star Vincci Albayzin – I used to be completely charmed by its distinctive Moorish heritage impressed interiors, the basic Andalusian-style courtyard (which had beautiful ornate tile work), the enjoyable sauna and their excellent connoisseur restaurant the place I dined on grilled vegetable couscous infused with Ras el Hanout spices!
Eating within the beautiful La Telefonica Restaurant – I cherished the normal Andalusian courtyard and my typical Andalusian dish of barely caramelised Berenjenas Fritas (crispy fried aubergine slices).
3. Barcelona, Catalonia
I am keen on this energetic and vastly inventive metropolis! I am keen on Gaudí’s whimsical structure, the bustling streets, sandy seashores, and the charming mix of historical past, artwork, and laid-back Mediterranean cool that makes this metropolis completely irresistible.
Positioned on the Mediterranean Sea within the northeastern a part of Spain, I fall in love with this proud capital of Catalonia each time I go to (and that’s very often)!
Location: Catalonia area, NorthEast
Location Map
Finest time to go to: Spring and summer time
My private highlights…
Getting misplaced within the mysterious Gothic Quarter – I cherished slim medieval streets lined with stylish bars, golf equipment, and eating on earthy and fragrant flatbread topped with grilled zucchini, mushrooms and onions on the excellent Catalan restaurant L’Antic Bocoi del Gòtic.
Sipping on Pineapple-infused Caribbean Storm cocktails accompanied by superb sundown views on the Azimuth Rooftop Bar.
4. Costa Brava, Catalonia
I escape to this picturesque coastal area after I need a substitute for the busier Spanish resorts! It’s a dreamy, rugged haven with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, shimmering turquoise waters, charming seaside villages, protected pure parks, and a laid-back but refined vibe enriched with a love of artwork.
Positioned in Catalonia, within the northeastern a part of the nation, it stretches 124 miles alongside the Mediterranean coast, from Blanes to the French border close to Portbou.
I spent a magical few weeks at modern 4-star Lodge Maritim right here simply kicking again on the pristine seashores, exploring the charming villages (turned seaside resorts) of Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar, mountain climbing the scenic Cami de Ronda coastal paths, visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, and found the traditional ruins of Empúries.
I additionally dined on scrumptious, Catalan delicacies, found the medieval allure of Buddies with its cobblestone streets, snorkelled within the clear waters of the Medes Islands, exploring the rugged Cap de Creus Pure Park and discovering the Insta-worthy vibrant riverside homes of Girona (my photograph is above).
Location: East coast
Location Map
Finest time to go to: summer time
My highlights…
Spending a day on Fenals Seaside which was nestled in a small bay – I notably favored the lifeguard companies and the enjoyable jet ski leases!
Visiting Salvador Dalí’s home in Portlligat – I used to be in awe of its labyrinthine design, the quirky large egg decor and beautiful views of the serene Cadaqués Bay which I came upon from the information had impressed a lot of his artwork!
5. Valencia, Valencia Area
I feel this can be a very wonderful culturally wealthy coastal metropolis! On my go to, I felt it had all the pieces—beautiful historic landmarks, awe-inspiring futuristic structure, beautiful Mediterranean seashores, energetic festivals like Las Fallas, easy-on-the-eye parks, and an irresistible mix of old-world allure and trendy cool!
Positioned on the japanese Mediterranean coast, it’s Spain’s third-largest metropolis and the birthplace of paella, my all-time favourite Spanish dish!
I stayed for 4 days on the dreamy 4-star Saman Lodge Boutique, which was simply sufficient to absorb the jaw-dropping Metropolis of Arts and Sciences, wander via the historic Outdated City to find the Valencia Cathedral and Silk Change, calm down on its excellent sandy seashores (my favorite was the native hang-out La Malvarrosa!), people-watch within the elegant Plaza de la Reina, and benefit from the vibrant nightlife within the stylish Ruzafa neighbourhood!
Location: East Coast
Location Map
Finest time to go to: Might to August
My private highlights…
Cut price searching and making an attempt native meals at Valencia’s Central Market – I particularly cherished the connoisseur espresso at La Boutique Del Cafe.
Eating on inventive, domestically impressed dishes on the award-winning Karak restaurant – their model of Gazpacho was divine!
6. Malaga, Malaga Province
This sunny, cosmopolitan, and more and more common metropolis vacation spot is a standout on the Costa del Sol! Whereas the area’s concrete high-rises lack conventional allure, I discovered Málaga to be the exception, providing the proper mixture of golden seashores, an enchanting artwork scene, historic landmarks, and a buzzy, youthful vibe. I additionally love that it nonetheless has some grittier components which makes it just a little edgier.
It’s positioned alongside the Costa del Sol on the Mediterranean Sea, within the area of Andalucía, on the southern coast, I used to be fascinated to seek out it was the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and it’s one of many oldest cities in Europe, based by the Phoenicians round 770 BCE.
I spent an extended weekend on the stylish and stylish 4-star ICON Malabar and explored the historic Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Fortress, visited the Picasso Museum, strolled alongside the charming Muelle Uno waterfront, relaxed on the golden sandy seashores, loved the panoramic views from the Málaga Cathedral’s rooftop, found the beautiful Jardin Botanico Historico La Concepcion Gardens and wandered the previous city which was brimming with glorious eating places, cafes and bars.
Location: Malaga Province, South
Location Map
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season
My private highlights…
Exploring the family-friendly Playa de la Misericordia, which had lengthy, darkish sands and distinctive chimney monument, and Playa del Palo, which charmed me with its picturesque promenade and conventional fishing village ambiance.
Eating on the Doña Inés restaurant – I used to be received over by the inventive Mediterranean dishes, the fashionable decor and my dish of a Axarquía pepper salad with a sherry vinegar dressing which had fairly a kick to it!
7. Marbella, Costa del Sol
This can be a famously enjoyable, and glitzy coastal metropolis! It’s a preferred vacationer spot with a vibe that leans extra Costa del Sol than refined, however there’s nonetheless loads of magnificence to take pleasure in! It boasts golden sandy seashores, glowing Mediterranean waters, an enthralling Outdated City, and gleaming moored yachts basking within the scorching sunshine.
Located on the Mediterranean Sea alongside the Costa del Sol within the province of Málaga, Andalucía, it boasts a surprising backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains.
I spent per week right here and kayaked the scenic shoreline, explored the Outdated City with its slim streets and orange tree-filled plazas, loved luxurious buying within the beautiful boutiques, gazed at flashy yachts in Puerto Banús, hiked La Concha Mountain, dined at Michelin-starred eating places and checked out the buzzy nightlife on the well-known Golden Mile!
Location: Andalusia, South
Location Map
Finest time to go to: Might to September
My highlights…
Watching the sundown on the beautiful rooftop bar Air by Breathe – the expertise was made even better by gorging on on freshly made Lotus Root & Wild Mushroom Siu Mai washed down by a potent “Fowl Melon” cocktail!
8. San Sebastian, Basque Nation
I’m an everlasting fan of this refined beachfront metropolis! I like the luscious golden seashores (particularly La Concha), the dramatic hills framing the bay, and the mix of chic Belle Époque structure with vibrant pintxos bars, making each nook really feel prefer it belongs in a dreamy journey journal unfold!
Positioned alongside the Bay of Biscay in Basque Nation, northern Spain, it’s famend for its world-class delicacies and boasts one of many highest concentrations of Michelin stars per capita on the planet.
I spent 4 days right here enjoyable on the crescent-shaped La Concha Seaside, mountain climbing up Monte Igueldo for beautiful views, indulging in world-class eating at Michelin-starred eating places and pintxos bars within the Parte Vieja, exploring the elegant Miramar Palace, strolling alongside the glistening harbour, and immersing myself in Basque tradition via its fascinating museums and energetic festivals.
Location: Basque Nation, northeast
Location Map
Finest time to go to: Might to September
My highlights…
Staying on the beautiful 4-star boutique Catalonia Donosti – I like the way it was housed in a meticulously restored Seventeenth- and 18th-century convent, the dreamy rooftop terrace and pool, and the refined elegant decor which featured wealthy purple velvets and marble.
Exploring the Outdated City, shedding myself amongst the elegant slim streets and stopping by Sirimiri Gastroleku for a tasty mushroom risotto and patatas bravas.
Stress-free on Zurriola Seaside, which was a smaller and fewer crowded various to La Concha Seaside – I cherished the fashionable cafes there particularly the health-focused Alabama Café the place I dined on ecological toast dripping with peanut butter and cinnamon!
9. Pueblos Blancos, Andalusia
I used to be in awe of this distinctive and spellbinding place! Right here, a set of picturesque villages cling to the steep hillsides, their dazzling whitewashed homes and slim cobblestone streets lined with blooming bougainvilleas. Charming previous church buildings add to the timeless ambiance, whereas jaw-dropping views of lush valleys and rugged mountains – I felt like I used to be stepping straight right into a postcard!
It’s nestled within the beautiful Andalusian countryside on the sting of the Sierra de Grazalema Pure Park, scattered throughout the much-loved provinces of Cádiz and Málaga in southern Spain. I used to be utterly received over by its intriguing, nearly mysterious vibe, with labyrinth-like streets, hidden courtyards, and echoes of historical Moorish influences
I stayed right here for 3 days and wandered the sleepy previous city and beautiful villages – I cherished Grazalema for its elegant sq., textile outlets, and picturesque trails; Vejer de la Frontera for its flower-filled patios and beautiful hilltop views; and Arcos de la Frontera for its cliffside setting, medieval allure, and Eleventh-century citadel.
I additionally marvelled at historical Moorish structure, hiked the photogenic trails of Sierra de Grazalema, and gorged on tapas (my favorite was Berenjenas con miel – crispy fried eggplant drizzled with cane honey) whereas absorbing the sweeping views of the beautiful Andalusian countryside.
Location: Cádiz and Málaga, South
Location Map
Finest time to go to: spring (to keep away from the crowds and see the wildflowers).
My favorite highlights…
Staying on the distinctive boutique Lodge Plaza 18 – Grupo Califa – I used to be an enormous fan of the immaculately restored Nineteenth-century manor it was housed in, the underground therapeutic massage room and the afternoon tea which got here with home made pastries (my favorite have been the flaky almond muffins and the Jasmine Pearl Inexperienced Tea)!
10. Ronda, Malaga
I believed this was such a tranquil however very Insta-worthy gem! I cherished its dramatic clifftop setting, the place whitewashed buildings appear to teeter on the sting of the breathtaking El Tajo Gorge, related by the beautiful Puente Nuevo bridge spanning lush, sprawling valleys – after I noticed it in particular person, my jaw dropped; it was really that magnificent!
Perched on a dramatic plateau within the Serranía de Ronda mountains in southern Andalusia, it’s considered one of Spain’s oldest cities, with origins tracing again to the sixth century BCE.
I drove the winding, hairpin roads for an hour and a half from Málaga and was instantly struck by how peaceable it was.
Over a number of days, I walked throughout the jaw-dropping Puente Nuevo for epic gorge views, explored the traditional Arab Baths and the fantastically preserved Palacio de Mondragón, sipped wine on the charming family-run Bodega García Hidalgo, and wandered the cobbled streets of the Outdated City, lined with fascinating outlets, inviting eating places, and fairly gardens.