Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Spain for Unforgettable Experiences Before You Leave

A treasure country often recommended by Lonely Planet, Spain ranks third in the world for its World Heritage sites, and it also has relatively low prices, with both delicious food and beautiful scenery. Each city has its own unique features, making it perfect for in-depth travel.

[One R] Toledo
The ancient capital of Spain, where Christian, Islamic, and Jewish cultures converge and blend, earning it the reputation as the “City of Three Cultures.”
▪ Must-see attractions
❶ Toledo Cathedral
❷ Alcázar of Toledo

[Two R] Santiago
As one of the three major pilgrimage routes in the world, it ends at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
▪ Classic route to experience:
❶ Camino Francés (French Way)
❷ Camino del Norte (Northern Way)
Pilgrim’s Passport (Credencial), get stamps along the way, walk 100 km or cycle over 200 km to receive a certificate of completion of the pilgrimage.

[Three R] Mallorca
A Mediterranean holiday paradise where Chopin composed the “Raindrop Prelude.”
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ Palma Cathedral
❷ Valldemossa Charterhouse
❸ Sóller

[Four R] Barcelona
A city that blends Gaudí’s fantastical architecture with the charming Mediterranean style.
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ Sagrada Familia
❷ Casa Milà & Casa Batlló
❸ Park Güell

[Five R] Segovia
A small town that combines ancient Roman ruins with fairy-tale castles.
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ Aqueduct of Segovia
❷ Alcázar of Segovia

[Six R] Consuegra
This is the place that inspired Don Quixote’s battle with the windmills.
▪ Must-experience:
❶ 12 white windmills: The Sancho windmill can be visited inside to learn about traditional wheat grinding techniques.
❷ Sunset view: The windmills under the sunset glow look like an oil painting.
❸ Saffron Festival (October): The air is filled with the fragrance of saffron, known as “red gold.”

[Seven R] Córdoba
Known as the “City of Flowered Courtyards” in Andalusia.
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba
❷ Roman Bridge
❸ Patio Festival (May): The old town courtyards transform into a flower maze.

[Eight R] Ronda
A white town perched on a cliff, also the birthplace of Spanish bullfighting.
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ New Bridge
❷ Plaza de Toros (Bullring)
❸ Arab Baths

[Nine R] Seville
The birthplace of flamenco, a pearl of Andalusia filled with the scent of oranges and ancient relics.
▪ Must-experience:
❶ Plaza de España
❷ Seville Cathedral
❸ April Fair: Ladies wear flamenco dresses with a flower in their hair, and gentlemen dress up and parade on horseback.

[One R][Zero R] Granada
The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage site, representing the pinnacle of Islamic architectural art.
▪ Must-see attractions:
❶ Alhambra
❷ Albayzín

⚠️ Essential Travel Tips

✔️ High-speed trains offer a swift and scenic way to connect major cities, making it an ideal choice for travelers. For those exploring the southern regions, driving is highly recommended as it allows you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes at your own pace.

✔️ To ensure a worry-free trip, keep your passport and cash in separate places. Be vigilant in tourist-heavy areas, as pickpockets can be common. Always remember to take all valuables with you when leaving your car parked, to avoid any potential break-ins.

✔️ The southern Andalusian region is at its best from March to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. For the northern part, summer is the perfect time to visit, offering longer days and vibrant local festivities.