Top Destinations in Spain to Visit Once Travel is Allowed Again

There are plenty of reasons to visit Spain other than getting authentic tapas and experiencing the sights and sounds of Barcelona. The country boasts various destinations that are brimming with their own histories, evident in their food, nature, as well as their culture and nightlife. Whether you’re more of a foodie or find your thrill for travelling in visiting historical sights, here are the top destinations in Spain to visit once travel is allowed again!

Destinations for Foodies

Everybody loves food. Whether it’s the meal you and your officemates look forward to on your lunch break or a full-on celebratory feast, it has the wonderful ability to bring people together. This is especially true in countries like Spain, where many of life’s happenings, both exciting and mundane, revolve around a unique food culture. A town or city’s gastronomic profile paints a colourful picture of its history, culture, and people, so scouting out top destinations for food around this European country is a must if you’re a certified foodie traveller!

Madrid

It probably comes as no surprise that the Spanish capital is first on the list. You can expect the food scene to be brimming with flavourful options such as roast suckling pig and cocido madrileño stew with a diverse and exciting city culture. Classic deep-fried squid rings are given a twist by adding a bun, resulting in a dish called bocadillo del calamares that makes for great bar chow! When enjoying a night out in Madrid, don’t forget the essential tapas for a great culinary experience in the city.

Benidorm

Situated by the Mediterranean Sea, Benidorm is an extremely popular summer tourist destination. It is renowned among both Madrileños and international travellers from many other parts of Europe and across the world. Many of the tourists that visit Benidorm hail from Britain. In fact, Gala Bingo’s article on the British’s love affair with Benidorm highlights that 23% of Brits would love to move to this particular charming seaside town if given the chance. Its pleasant weather and delicious food makes it a very enjoyable place to visit. Try out local restaurants like La Señoria, where they serve up authentic dishes like mussels and seafood rice. While Benidorm is known for its seafood, there are also other dishes to keep an eye out for. Local specialities such as the pepper beef steak served with fried potatoes are very popular.

Seville

Seville is known for being the birthplace of Flamenco and its beautiful artistic heritage. It's also home to world-renowned cuisine, so adventurous foodies won’t be disappointed. On the one hand, you have dishes such as the salmorejo, which is a refreshing skinned tomato purée served with bread, olive oil, and garlic—simple but delicious. However, the more daring foodies out there can give something like Seville’s carrillada de cerdo a try. This pork cheek dish shows just how this extremely tender part served in wine sauce can deliver a culinary experience like no other.

Food might seem like just a simple part of the day, but each ingredient that makes up a delicious plate carries more than just flavour. No matter which part of Spain you choose to explore, eating your way from one destination to another can paint a mural of new tastes and experiences to remember your travelling experiences by.

Destinations for Culture Junkies

Immersing oneself in the cultural identity of a country can transform a simple vacation into an eye-opening journey of history and heritage. For the culture buffs that have been eyeing Spain as their next learning experience, here are some spots you won’t want to miss!

Granada

Granada is like a city straight out of a fantasy novel, with its formidable ancient fortress, snowcapped mountains, and cobbled streets. One of the cultural highlights of this location is the Alhambra fortress, which was built between the 8th and 15th centuries. A relic of Andalusia’s time under Moorish rule for 800 years, one can see and feel the Moorish influences in the city’s architecture and art, among other unique details. For instance, Expert Vagabond’s blog post on the Sacromonte white caves features the place where gipsy communities originally lived, currently inhabited by a mix of people from all over the world.

Since tickets can be difficult to purchase, vacationers can take advantage of planning trips later on while pandemic restrictions are still in place.

Morella

Fast-paced city life may have plenty to offer, but the quieter towns also have their fair share of sights, sounds, and tastes for visitors. Morella is an excellent example, with its jaw-dropping architecture and rich history. The first thing any visitor will notice is the impressive walls and towers built to protect the town, and the second is the striking Morella castle atop the hill. As you explore the town, keep in mind that it had been inhabited by the ancient powers at one point, making it a historic place. There are Greek, Carthaginian, Roman, and Moorish cultural influences most notably present in the architecture. Morella’s historical significance is further highlighted by its crucial role during the Napoleonic Wars and the Spanish Civil War that helped shape the course of the country’s history.

Morella also has culinary treasures like honey, cheese, and truffles, so those visiting the area should try out the local dairy products made from goat and sheep’s milk and honey varieties.

Segovia

One of Spain’s most impressive structures that can make visitors feel like they’re really visiting a period in history is the ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia. Built during the first century, these structures were designed to transport fresh water to cities and other populated areas. It is so important in Segovia’s history that the aqueduct is featured on the city’s coat of arms. This structure, which still stands strong centuries after it was built, is a product of fine Roman engineering and efforts to preserve it for years to come. This piece of Roman influence makes for an excellent reminder of Spain’s rich history as well as a photo op!

Destinations for Nature Lovers

A trip to Spain wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in its lush, natural beauty. Between cities, historical sites, and hitting the road, nature lovers will have something to marvel at with these destinations.

Gaztelugatxe

In Basque Country, travellers will find a small island just off the coast of Bermeo where a chapel has stood since the tenth century in honour of San Juan. Getting to this historical site is an experience in itself. To do this, you must cross a long, stone bridge with scenic ocean views all around, a must if you’re a fan of ocean waves, the sea breeze, and breathtakingly beautiful scenery!

Fuente Dé

Fuente Dé is perfect for those who love awe-inspiring mountainous landscapes. This nature reserve gives visitors an excellent view of the Picos de Europa mountains, which translates to “peaks of Europe.” It’s a popular destination for hikers, but if you prefer not to hike, you can reach Fuente De’s viewpoint via cable car at an altitude of over 800 metres for stunning mountain and glacial views.

However, do come prepared for drastic shifts in weather conditions at Fuente Dé, especially if you’re hoping to snap some photographs of the view. Kev MRC Travel's blog post recounts seeing nothing but fog on the way up to the peak! Fortunately, you can also get lucky and experience the fog clearing as quickly as it comes, so always have your camera ready; you never know when that beautiful view will hide again.

La Playa de los Catedrales, Lugo

And of course, no trip to Spain would be complete without visiting the beach. If you’re looking for beaches that offer something different from the usual tourist attractions, then La Playa de los Catedrales is the perfect place for you. Situated in the province of Lugo in Ribadeo, this special beach is home to curved rock formations that people can walk under when the sea recedes. Visitors can also explore the knee-deep tidal pools at the mouth of the grottos, which are fun to wade in.

When planning your visit to the Beach of the Cathedrals, try to go around August. Although there will probably be other vacationers on the beach too, you can avoid crowds by going after 8pm—don’t worry as the sun sets quite late. If you’re an early riser, then you can make a trip to the beach in the morning, and don’t forget to bring your camera!

Travelling to Spain Post-Pandemic

Dream destinations that have it all are rare, but in the case of Spain, it’s a country that really does seem to offer everything a traveller looks for. Whether you’re set on exploring landscapes and historical sites or hoping to sample the mouthwatering local cuisine, you’ll be spoiled for choice in this country. Planning the details of your visit to this vibrant European country well before travel restrictions are lifted will prepare you for an unforgettable out-of-country experience after months of staying put!

Submitted exclusively by Irene Newton for idyoma.com

Irene Newton is an avid explorer who loves to document her travels with her trusty Nikon camera and an extra canister of film. These days, she spends her time cooking recipes from her favourite destinations and bonding with her cat, named Bento.