Combining a remarkable history with 21st-century sophistication, Spain is a vibrant and impassioned destination. Stunning beaches attract sun-worshippers from all over the world while suave cities fuse medieval and gothic architecture with North African influences and the contemporary creations of Gaudi, Picasso and Dali. Visitors to Spain cannot help but be seduced by the gorgeous landscapes, delicious cuisine, boisterous festivals and intoxicating lust for life that permeates the entire country. Key Highlights Located in the heart of the country, sophisticated Madrid features a wealth of historical monuments, excellent shopping and some of the world’s best tapas bars. You won’t want to miss the Spanish capital’s impressive art galleries, the magnificent Royal Palace or the beautiful Plaza Mayor. Barcelona is Spain’s most cosmopolitan city, an architectural treasure trove that boasts a splendid Gothic Quarter and many extraordinary works by Antoni Gaudi, arguably the world’s greatest 20th-century architect. Packed with world-class restaurants and art museums, this energetic city is a cultural and visual feast. The birthplace of flamenco music, the southern region of Andalucía is also home to some of Europe’s finest examples of Moorish architecture, including the Alhambra Palace in Granada and the Mezquita in Cordoba. Seville is a laid-back city of medieval lanes and orange blossoms while the fashionable resorts of the Costa del Sol offer golden beaches and year-round sunshine. For a glimpse of Andalucía’s old-world charm, follow the Route of the White Villages into the mountains to discover picturesque hamlets whose residents adhere to a more traditional way of life. In Depth
Situated on Spain’s northern coast, Bilbao is the Basque Country’s capital, a vibrant modern city renowned for its iconic Guggenheim Museum. Not far away is San Sebastian, an elegant seaside resort with attractive beaches, a delightful old quarter, fabulous pintxos (Basque tapas) and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Surrounded by clear blue Mediterranean waters, the Balearic Islands are the perfect place to get your fix of sun, sand and sea. Mallorca, the largest island, is famous for its superb beaches, dramatic mountains and pretty inland villages. Menorca’s isolated coves are ideal for a quiet, serene holiday, while Ibiza’s legendary nightlife offers round-the-clock excitement.