Spain

Spain has the range to support very different trips: Moorish Andalusia, the green Atlantic north, Catalan modernism and two island groups. High-speed rail links the major cities in a few hours, making a multi-city trip practical without a car. Interior summers are extreme, so timing matters more here than in most of Europe.

Cities

Granada

Granada is dominated by the Alhambra, the best-preserved Islamic palace complex in Europe, set against the Sierra Nevada. Below it, the Albaicín is a hillside of whitewashed lanes and the Sacromonte caves hold the city's flamenco tradition. Alhambra tickets sell out weeks ahead and must be booked before you travel.

San Sebastián

San Sebastián wraps a shell-shaped bay with a belle-époque promenade and has one of the highest concentrations of celebrated restaurants anywhere. The old town's pintxos bars are the main event and can be worked through on foot in an evening. Surfing at Zurriola and the coastal walks add an outdoor side.

Seville

Seville is the Andalusian capital, built around a vast Gothic cathedral, a Mudéjar royal palace still in use and the orange-tree courtyards of Santa Cruz. Flamenco here is a working tradition rather than a show, best seen in small peñas. July and August regularly pass 40°C, which rules out midday sightseeing.

When to go

See all seasons

• Spring: Ideal across the country; Semana Santa and the Seville fair fall in this window.
• Summer: Very hot inland and in the south; the north coast stays mild.
• Autumn: Warm sea, harvest season, easier city sightseeing.

Entry & visas

Entry rules for this country aren't published here yet.

Always confirm entry rules with the official source before you book.