Spain’s holiday hotspots…and hidden gems!
2019-06-20
Are you considering a trip to Spain? Good, then this blog post is for you!
It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or your tenth time, one thing is certain when visiting Spain – there’s always something new to see! And that’s because Spain is such a richly diverse country. Food fanatics, music lovers, history buffs and beach bums – the Kingdom of Spain has got you covered!
And we’ve got you covered too! Here’s a few of our favourite holiday hotspots (alongside a few hidden gems, shhh!)
1. Estepona
Estepona presents a brilliantly whitewashed backdrop decorated with an abundance of vibrant colour – honestly, it’s an Instagrammers paradise! The many street cafes and chilled-out tapas bars will also be on hand to serve you up tasty local treats and a beverage or two. Afterwards, explore Estepona’s old quarter with its wonderfully-winding flower-lined lanes.
Speaking of flowers, be sure to check out the Estepona’s Orchid House! If you have already been then we’d love you to share your photos on Facebook and Instagram!
If finding a quiet spot on the beach is more your thing then you’ll be glad to hear that this former fishing village is not as busy as neighbouring Marbella or Málaga. Yes, despite its beauty, Estepona has managed to retain much of its small-time charm, a true hidden gem of a holiday destination on the Costa del Sol.
2. Barcelona
No list of Spanish city breaks is complete without a shout out to the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, Barcelona. Famous worldwide as a veritable treasure trove of art and architectural, Barcelona is a true cultural hub.
And the best time of year to visit? All year round! You’ll find something in every season – beautiful beaches, amazing music and, of course, fabulous Spanish food! Barcelona is the perfect place for those looking for a lively getaway where they can live, eat and play like a local.
3. Segovia
Plan a trip to Segovia and you are in for a treat. Tucked away in the outer reaches of Spain’s Castile and León region, Segovia greets visitors with a grand architectural legacy spanning the ages. Expect an experience like no other thanks to an iconic roman aqueduct, a gorgeous gothic cathedral, and the fantastically fairy-tale Alcázar of Segovia.
We highly recommend you wander along the river Eresma until you discover the park called Alameda del Parral. It’s the perfect place for a picnic!
Why not prepare yourself a lovely local salad or pack a piece of our olive oil, almond and orange cake to enjoy in the sun!
4. Madrid
We’ll start by talking about the food (because let’s face it, that’s what we are here for!). Madrid has so much to offer for the foodies out there. The sheer variety of culinary delights is enough to keep us returning time and time again. Every hidden tapas bar will hold its own secrets, so sometimes the best thing you can do is explore!
Do you have any advice on where to stop off for delicious dishes in Madrid? Head over to on Facebook or Instagram and let us know!
Between meals, be sure to take advantage of the massive metropolis of the capital’s culture. It truly caters for all tastes. From lively nightlife to a famous shopping scene, to a rich history and stunning architectural heritage. Oh, and did we mention the food already?!
5. Extremadura
Natural parks, ancient cities and awe-inspiring scenery, the second-biggest wine-making area in Spain, the home of a ghost town AND a filming location for Game of Thrones… Extremadura definitely has a lot going for it. And yet, it remains one of the quieter destinations for holiday makers to discover.
A trip to Extremadura would be perfect for nature lovers and culture chasers alike, and it’s an absolute paradise for food tourists too (sampling some local jamón ibérico is a must!). For those seeking a livelier getaway, time your visit with one of the areas famous festivals. Or, if you’re seeking some sand to relax on, Extremadura sets high standards with a beautiful blue flag award-winning inland beach!
6. Seville
Seville is the centre of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, famous for flamenco dancing, the fantastically dry manzanilla sherry and, of course, the Costa del Sol. A must-see is the grand Gothic Seville Cathedral, both a sight to behold amidst the amazing skyline but also the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb.
Not that we need to mention it again, but the Spanish cuisine on offer in Seville is utterly unmissable. We recommend paying a visit to your local food market to gain a taste for the local produce – it’s super fresh and superbly tasty. Check out Seville’s oldest food market, the Mercado de la Feria, for a winning combo of both classic and contemporary culture and cuisine.