Things to Do in Spain

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Spain remains one of the most popular holiday destinations for UK travellers because it offers remarkable variety in one country. You can spend one trip wandering through world-famous cities such as Barcelona, Madrid and Seville, then swap museums and tapas bars for golden beaches in the Costa del Sol, Balearics or Canary Islands. Add a warm climate, excellent food, family-friendly resorts, rich culture and easy flight connections from the UK, and it is easy to see why Spain suits everything from quick city breaks to longer summer holidays.

This guide brings together the best things to do in Spain for couples, families, solo travellers and luxury holidaymakers. It is designed to help you plan a memorable trip with practical advice, evergreen recommendations and useful internal links to related BFM Travels pages including Spain Holidays, Best Hotels in Spain, 7 Days in Spain, Barcelona Holidays, Madrid Holidays, Costa del Sol Holidays, City Breaks and the BFM Travel Planner.

Top 20 Things To Do in Spain

1. Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Gaudi landmarks

Barcelona combines beach, architecture and city energy in a way few European destinations can match. Strolling through the Gothic Quarter, admiring the Sagrada Familia and seeing Gaudi’s imaginative buildings is one of the classic Spain experiences.

• Why visit: A brilliant introduction to Spanish culture, architecture and food.
• Who it suits: First-time visitors, couples, culture lovers and city-break travellers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant sightseeing weather.
• Approximate visit duration: Half day to two days depending on your pace.
• Helpful tip: Book major landmarks in advance and start early to avoid the busiest periods.

2. Visit Madrid’s art museums and grand boulevards

Madrid offers a more stately and cultural side of Spain, with elegant avenues, lively plazas and some of Europe’s finest art collections. The Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza make the city a must for art lovers.

• Why visit: Superb museums, excellent food and a sophisticated city atmosphere.
• Who it suits: Adults, culture seekers, weekend travellers and food lovers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: One to three days.
• Helpful tip: Combine museum visits with relaxed time in Retiro Park and nearby neighbourhoods.

3. Watch the sunset at the Alhambra in Granada

The Alhambra is one of Spain’s most celebrated historic sites, known for its palaces, gardens and views over Granada. It offers a memorable insight into the country’s Moorish heritage.

• Why visit: Extraordinary history, architecture and panoramic scenery.
• Who it suits: History enthusiasts, couples and photographers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, or early in the day during summer.
• Approximate visit duration: Half day.
• Helpful tip: Reserve entry well ahead and allow time to explore the Albaicin afterwards.

4. Experience Seville’s flamenco and old town

Seville is full of atmosphere, from orange-tree-lined squares to grand palaces and late-night dining. A flamenco performance here feels especially authentic and adds depth to a city break or wider Andalusia itinerary.

• Why visit: Romantic streets, rich culture and strong local identity.
• Who it suits: Couples, culture lovers and first-time Andalusia visitors.
• Best time to visit: Spring and late autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: One to two days.
• Helpful tip: Explore on foot in the morning and save indoor attractions for the hottest hours.

5. Relax on the beaches of the Costa del Sol

For classic sunshine holidays, the Costa del Sol remains a favourite with UK travellers. Resorts range from lively and family-friendly to polished and upscale, making it easy to match the coast to your travel style.

• Why visit: Reliable holiday atmosphere, beaches and easy access from the UK.
• Who it suits: Families, beach lovers, groups and couples.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: From a beach day to a full week.
• Helpful tip: Choose your base carefully, as Malaga, Marbella, Nerja and Torremolinos all feel different.

6. Discover the beaches and nightlife of Ibiza

Ibiza is famous for nightlife, but the island also offers beautiful coves, stylish beach clubs, family-friendly areas and peaceful inland villages. It works for far more than late nights.

• Why visit: A mix of glamour, scenery and world-famous entertainment.
• Who it suits: Adults, groups, couples and luxury travellers.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Three days to one week.
• Helpful tip: Stay in a quieter area if you want beach days with optional evenings out.

7. Enjoy family-friendly resorts in Tenerife

Tenerife is one of the most versatile Spanish islands for UK holidaymakers. It combines beaches, water parks, volcanic landscapes and resort convenience, making it especially popular for family holidays and winter sun breaks.

• Why visit: Year-round appeal and a strong choice of activities.
• Who it suits: Families, mixed-age groups and winter sun travellers.
• Best time to visit: All year, depending on your holiday style.
• Approximate visit duration: Five to seven days.
• Helpful tip: Split your time between the south’s resorts and the island’s natural scenery.

8. Take in volcanic landscapes in Lanzarote

Lanzarote feels strikingly different from mainland Spain thanks to its lava fields, dramatic coastlines and low-rise whitewashed resorts. It is ideal if you want scenery as well as sunshine.

• Why visit: Unique landscapes and a calm, stylish holiday feel.
• Who it suits: Couples, walkers, families and repeat Spain visitors.
• Best time to visit: All year.
• Approximate visit duration: Four to seven days.
• Helpful tip: Hiring a car helps you see more of the island beyond the main resorts.

9. Swim and unwind in Majorca’s coves

Majorca offers a polished mix of beaches, mountain villages, family resorts and elegant dining. It works equally well for a relaxed beach break, a romantic escape or a multi-centre island holiday.

• Why visit: Beautiful coastline, varied resorts and easy access.
• Who it suits: Couples, families and luxury travellers.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Long weekend to one week.
• Helpful tip: Combine beach time with inland villages and Palma for a more rounded trip.

10. Explore Valencia’s old city and modern architecture

Valencia often feels like one of Spain’s most balanced city destinations. It has beaches, historic streets, green spaces and futuristic architecture, all with a slightly more relaxed pace than Barcelona or Madrid.

• Why visit: A rewarding blend of culture, coast and food.
• Who it suits: Couples, city-break travellers and food lovers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Two to three days.
• Helpful tip: Hire bikes or walk through the Turia Gardens to link the city highlights.

11. Visit the white villages of Andalusia

The white villages, or pueblos blancos, show a quieter and more traditional side of southern Spain. Narrow streets, hilltop views and local restaurants make them ideal for scenic drives and slower travel.

• Why visit: Authentic atmosphere and beautiful countryside settings.
• Who it suits: Road trippers, couples and photographers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Half day to full day.
• Helpful tip: Pair village visits with a stay on the Costa del Sol or in Seville.

12. Walk the seafront in Malaga

Malaga has grown into one of Spain’s most appealing short-break cities. It combines beach access, museums, rooftop bars and a walkable centre, making it a smart choice for travellers who want both culture and coast.

• Why visit: Easy-going city atmosphere with seaside appeal.
• Who it suits: Couples, friends and city-break travellers.
• Best time to visit: Spring, autumn and mild winter periods.
• Approximate visit duration: Two to four days.
• Helpful tip: Stay central if you want to explore on foot without relying on transport.

13. Take a road trip along the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is known for its rugged coastline, pretty coves and attractive seaside towns. It suits travellers who want a beach holiday with a little more character and variety.

• Why visit: Scenic coastal drives, charming towns and swimming spots.
• Who it suits: Couples, self-drive travellers and beach lovers.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Three days to one week.
• Helpful tip: A car gives you the freedom to reach quieter beaches and viewpoints.

14. Enjoy resort life in Benidorm

Benidorm remains one of Spain’s best-known resort destinations for good reason. It is easy, lively and practical, with a broad beach, plenty of entertainment and a huge range of accommodation styles.

• Why visit: Straightforward holiday convenience and a sociable atmosphere.
• Who it suits: Groups, adults, couples and classic package holiday fans.
• Best time to visit: Spring to autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Three days to one week.
• Helpful tip: Choose the quieter side of town if you want easier nights and a more relaxed pace.

15. Go hiking or sightseeing in northern Spain

Northern Spain is often overlooked by sun-seeking visitors, yet it offers green landscapes, dramatic coastlines and excellent food. It is a strong choice if you want a different side of the country.

• Why visit: Cooler scenery, outdoor activities and regional character.
• Who it suits: Walkers, food lovers and repeat visitors to Spain.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Several days to a week.
• Helpful tip: Consider it for a fly-drive rather than a single-resort holiday.

16. Take a tapas crawl in Seville or Madrid

Food is central to any Spain holiday, and a tapas crawl is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience local life. Different regions have their own specialities, so every stop feels slightly different.

• Why visit: A social and flavour-packed way to explore Spanish cuisine.
• Who it suits: Couples, groups and food-focused travellers.
• Best time to visit: Year round.
• Approximate visit duration: One evening.
• Helpful tip: Eat later than you might in the UK and try regional dishes rather than ordering the same items everywhere.

17. Visit the beaches of Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is all about long sandy beaches, open landscapes and a laid-back rhythm. It is especially popular with travellers who want a pure beach holiday and plenty of space.

• Why visit: Wide beaches and a peaceful island feel.
• Who it suits: Beach lovers, couples and wind sports fans.
• Best time to visit: All year.
• Approximate visit duration: Four days to one week.
• Helpful tip: Bring layers for breezier days, even in warm seasons.

18. Discover Lisbon-style city energy in Spain’s coastal cities

Spanish coastal cities such as Malaga, Valencia and Barcelona offer the same appealing mix of urban culture and sea views that many UK travellers love elsewhere in southern Europe. They are ideal for a trip that balances sightseeing with downtime.

• Why visit: City convenience with beach access.
• Who it suits: Couples, friends and short-break travellers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Two to four days.
• Helpful tip: Pick one main city and add a nearby beach area rather than trying to cover too much.

19. Take a scenic island break in Menorca

Menorca is quieter than Majorca and Ibiza, making it a strong option for travellers who want beautiful beaches and a slower pace. It is especially appealing for families and couples.

• Why visit: Calm atmosphere, lovely coves and relaxed resorts.
• Who it suits: Families, couples and slower-paced holidaymakers.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn.
• Approximate visit duration: Five to seven days.
• Helpful tip: Consider a car if you want to explore more remote beaches.

20. Plan a multi-centre Spain holiday

One of the best things to do in Spain is combine different experiences in a single trip. A city and beach pairing, or mainland and island combination, can give you a richer holiday without feeling rushed.

• Why visit: Lets you see more of Spain’s variety in one holiday.
• Who it suits: Repeat visitors, couples and longer-stay travellers.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are especially comfortable.
• Approximate visit duration: One to two weeks.
• Helpful tip: Keep travel days realistic and avoid changing base too often.

Hidden Gems

• Cadiz old town: A charming coastal city with historic streets and a local feel.
• Ronda: Dramatic gorge views and a memorable stop in Andalusia.
• Cadaques: A picturesque Costa Brava town with artistic heritage.
• La Gomera day trip: A rewarding add-on from Tenerife for nature lovers.
• Formentera from Ibiza: Ideal for a more peaceful island day out.

Family Activities

Spain is excellent for family holidays thanks to short flight times from the UK, child-friendly resorts and a wide choice of beaches and attractions. Tenerife, Majorca, Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca are especially strong options. Family-friendly activities include beach days, boat trips, aquariums, water parks, easy old-town walks, cable cars and scenic train rides. If you are travelling with younger children, staying close to the beach and restaurants can make the holiday feel much easier.

Useful related pages include Family Holidays, Family Travel Guide, Travelling with Children and Family Week in Tenerife.

Adults Only Experiences

Adults looking for a more refined Spain holiday can focus on boutique city stays, vineyard visits, spa hotels, stylish beach clubs, sunset cruises and late dinners in atmospheric old towns. Ibiza, Majorca, Seville, Barcelona and parts of the Costa del Sol work particularly well for adults-only breaks. If your priority is peace and comfort, consider quieter hotel areas rather than the busiest resort centres.

For inspiration, explore Adults Only Holidays, Couples Travel Guide and Luxury Holidays.

Free Things To Do

• Walk historic centres in cities such as Seville, Malaga and Valencia.
• Spend time on public beaches across the mainland and islands.
• Watch sunset from scenic viewpoints.
• Browse local food markets and neighbourhood streets.
• Explore promenades and marina areas in resort towns.
• Visit public parks such as Retiro in Madrid or the Turia Gardens in Valencia.
• Take self-guided walking tours through old quarters and waterfronts.

Best Beaches

Spain offers everything from long resort beaches to hidden coves. For broad sandy stretches, Fuerteventura and Costa del Sol are strong choices. For scenic coves, Majorca, Menorca and Costa Brava stand out. For city-and-beach combinations, Barcelona, Valencia and Malaga are particularly convenient. If you want dependable winter sun, Tenerife and Lanzarote remain among the most practical options for UK travellers.

Related pages: Beach Holiday Guide, Fuerteventura Holidays, Majorca Holidays, Costa Brava Holidays and Tenerife Holidays.

Food & Drink Experiences

Food is one of the biggest reasons to visit Spain. Regional variety matters, so try paella in Valencia, tapas in Seville or Madrid, seafood on the coasts, pintxos in the north and island specialities in the Balearics and Canaries. Markets, neighbourhood bars and traditional restaurants often provide the most memorable meals. Rather than rushing from one tourist spot to the next, build time into your itinerary for long lunches, local pastries, coffee stops and evening dining.

• Local dishes to try: paella, tortilla, croquetas, grilled seafood, gazpacho, jamon and regional rice dishes.
• Market experiences: city food halls, produce markets and local bakeries.
• Restaurant style to look for: traditional tapas bars, family-run seafood restaurants and modern Spanish bistros.

Shopping

Shopping in Spain ranges from designer districts in Madrid and Barcelona to artisan boutiques in smaller cities and resort markets in coastal areas. Palma, Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville are all rewarding for a mix of fashion, gifts and food shopping. In beach destinations, local markets are often better for souvenirs and casual browsing than large shopping centres.

Nightlife

Spain’s nightlife is famously varied. Ibiza is the obvious choice for world-known clubbing, but Spain also excels at relaxed evening culture: rooftop bars in Malaga, tapas evenings in Seville, late dinners in Madrid and beachside cocktails in Majorca. If nightlife matters to you, choose your destination carefully. Some areas are lively and social, while others are much quieter and better suited to couples or families.

Useful links include Ibiza Holidays, Malaga Holidays, Majorca Holidays and City Breaks.

Day Trips

• From Barcelona: Montserrat, Costa Brava towns and wine regions.
• From Madrid: Toledo, Segovia and nearby historic towns.
• From Seville: Cordoba, Cadiz and white villages.
• From Malaga or Costa del Sol: Ronda, Nerja and Granada.
• From Tenerife: Teide landscapes or a trip to La Gomera.
• From Ibiza: Formentera for a beach-focused escape.

Suggested 3-Day Mini Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Arrive and explore a historic centre or beachfront promenade.
• Afternoon: Visit a major cultural landmark or museum.
• Evening: Enjoy tapas and a relaxed walk through a lively square.

Day 2

• Morning: Head to the beach, a scenic viewpoint or a famous attraction.
• Afternoon: Browse local shops and stop for a long lunch.
• Evening: Choose a rooftop bar, flamenco show or waterfront dinner.

Day 3

• Morning: Take a short day trip or explore a quieter neighbourhood.
• Afternoon: Enjoy final shopping or a relaxed beach stop.
• Evening: Finish with a memorable Spanish meal before departure.

For a longer plan, see 7 Days in Spain.

Money Saving Tips

• Travel in shoulder season for a better balance of weather and value.
• Stay slightly outside the busiest tourist centres if you are comfortable using local transport.
• Mix paid attractions with beach days, parks and self-guided walks.
• Book key sights in advance where timed entry is common.
• Compare accommodation areas rather than focusing on one resort only.
• Use the BFM Travel Planner to narrow down the best destination and hotel style for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Spain for first-time visitors?

A mix of Barcelona or Madrid, a beach destination and a food-focused experience usually gives first-time visitors a strong introduction to Spain.

Is Spain good for family holidays?

Yes. Spain is one of the easiest and most versatile family holiday destinations for UK travellers thanks to short flights, family resorts and child-friendly beaches.

Which part of Spain is best for beaches?

That depends on your style. Fuerteventura is excellent for long sandy beaches, Majorca for coves, Costa del Sol for classic resort beaches and Tenerife for year-round beach holidays.

Which Spanish city is best for a short break?

Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia and Malaga are all strong choices depending on whether you prioritise culture, food, nightlife or beach access.

When is the best time to visit Spain?

Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, while summer suits beach holidays. The Canary Islands are especially good for winter sun.

Is Spain suitable for adults-only holidays?

Yes. Spain offers stylish city breaks, boutique hotels, spa resorts, vineyard regions and sophisticated beach destinations for adults-only travel.

Can I combine a city break and beach holiday in Spain?

Absolutely. Barcelona, Malaga and Valencia are especially good for combining urban sightseeing with beach time.

Do I need to hire a car in Spain?

Not always. Major cities and many resorts are easy without one, but a car can be useful for islands, rural areas and scenic coastal routes. See the Car Hire Guide for planning advice.

What should I book first for a Spain holiday?

Start with your destination and accommodation area, then build around flights, transfers and any major attractions that benefit from advance booking.

Where can I compare hotels for Spain?

You can compare options through Best Hotels in Spain and use BFM Travels tools to narrow down the right destination, hotel style and holiday type.

Final Summary

The best things to do in Spain depend on the kind of holiday you want. You might choose Barcelona for architecture, Madrid for culture, Seville for atmosphere, Tenerife for family-friendly sunshine or Majorca for scenic beaches and stylish stays. What makes Spain so appealing is its range. It can be a city break, a beach holiday, a food trip, a family escape or a multi-centre adventure, often with easy access from the UK and plenty of accommodation choice.

If you are still deciding where to go, start with your priorities: beaches, culture, nightlife, family facilities, luxury or winter sun. From there, compare destinations, hotel areas and itinerary ideas to build a trip that feels right for you rather than following a one-size-fits-all plan.

Call To Action

Ready to plan your Spain holiday? Compare accommodation options on Best Hotels in Spain, explore Spain Holidays, use the BFM Travels Travel Planner, browse the latest travel deals and discover more inspiration across our destination pages, itineraries and travel guides.

Internal link suggestions: Spain Holidays, Best Hotels in Spain, 7 Days in Spain, City Break Guide, Beach Holiday Guide, Barcelona Holidays, Madrid Holidays, Tenerife Holidays, Majorca Holidays, Costa del Sol Holidays.

Image ALT suggestions: 1. Panoramic view of Barcelona skyline and Mediterranean coast in Spain. 2. Historic square in Seville with traditional Spanish architecture. 3. Sandy beach in Majorca with turquoise water and sun loungers. 4. Family enjoying seaside promenade in Tenerife. 5. Sunset over whitewashed village in Andalusia. 6. Tapas dishes and Spanish wine on a restaurant table. 7. Valencia City of Arts and Sciences exterior in daylight. 8. Coastal cliffs and cove on the Costa Brava. 9. Madrid boulevard with historic buildings and trees. 10. Volcanic landscape and coastline in Lanzarote.