The 10 most beautiful places in Spain

Every year, Spain is one of the top destinations for many French people. This European country, located on the Iberian Peninsula and made up of 17 autonomous communities, offers a wealth of places and regions to discover. From cultural heritage and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Spain’s most beautiful cities and landscapes, here is a quick list of places to discover during your trip…

The most beautiful places in Spain?

1. Santiago de Compostela

We start with a classic, but one of the most effective ways to understand Spanish history and wealth. The route from the French Pyrenees to the magnificent city of Santiago de Compostela, capital of Galicia in the northwest of the country, will allow you to discover local life and get a taste of the Spanish way of life. Along the way, you will enjoy lively streets, delicious gastronomy (your taste buds will be delighted), sumptuous gardens and contemporary art in its museums. At the end of your trip, you will be able to fulfil one of your wildest desires: to visit the great cathedral, which stands proud and imposing.

2. The Caminito del Rey

El Caminito del Rey is a walk of just 3 kilometres through the natural park of Lors Ardales, northwest of Malaga city. Yes, to tell you the truth, it used to be considered “The most dangerous path in the world”… But don’t worry, nowadays this route is fully equipped. You will be able to walk in complete safety on footbridges built over gorges of more than 100 metres high. You will have the feeling of being the king or queen of these landscapes… A dream come true.

3. The island of Formentera

Some of you have a classic image of a “dream holiday”. Can you imagine yourself on a beach with turquoise, even translucent waters, on a sun lounger drinking sangria and sunbathing? Then the island of Formentera is the perfect place. The smallest of the islands of the Spanish Balearic archipelago, located in the Mediterranean Sea. There is no doubt that the best time to drop anchor is spring. This little paradise with a Mediterranean flavour offers an almost unbeatable peaceful lifestyle.

4. Cordoba

Do you like history, did you study Roman settlements in high school and are you fascinated by this field? Cordoba is a city in Andalusia, a region of southern Spain, and the capital of the province of the same name. It is known as the most important city of Roman antiquity and the Middle Ages, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to the magnificent Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Mosque-Cathedral, a testament to the rich history of the city and the region.

5. Valencia

The city of Valencia is located in the east of the country, on the Mediterranean coast. With 2,000 years of history behind it, Valencia has more than 30 museums for the general public, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of the Soldiers of Lead. With its lively squares, green spaces and even long sandy beaches, Valencia is THE city to discover in Eastern Spain. Its gastronomy is also very famous and appreciated, so between museums, don’t hesitate to try an authentic Valencian horchata!

6. La Rioja

Oenophiles, here you will find THE wine that will delight your taste buds! La Rioja is a province and autonomous community in northern Spain, and you may know it as the “Ruta del Vino”… Beautiful architecture, impressive wineries and local vineyards, delicious food… this is what awaits you! Take your time to taste, savour and enjoy some of the best wines in the world… No offence to our beautiful country, France! Nearby, don’t hesitate to take a trip to the Bardenas reales, a desert landscape with sandy mountains worthy of westerns, which has been declared a biosphere reserve.

7. Palma de Mallorca

We can’t tell you about Spain without mentioning the island coveted by all the powers that be. Take a boat out to sea with your loved ones, try scuba diving for the first time, explore the Drach caves, discover the Roman city of Pollentia…. There is so much more to mention, and we could go on for hours! Welcoming locals and villages, turquoise blue landscapes, crystal clear waters and truly delicious fish.

8. The aqueduct of Segovia

Watch out! An impressive and majestic monument awaits you in the city of Segovia, just one hour from the capital. The aqueduct of Segovia is, without a doubt, THE most important Roman vestige in the country. Dating from 50 AD, this double-arched structure is part of the magnificent historic centre of Segovia. Here you can admire the Alcazar, begun in the 11th century, and the 16th century Gothic cathedral.

9. The Torcal of Antequera

The Torcal de Antequera is a natural area located in the Spanish municipality of Antequera. “El Torcal de Antequera is literally the time of Andalusian landscapes. Its beautiful and unusual karst landscape is one of its greatest attractions. In fact, if caving is your thing, this is the ideal place to leave your bags, as there are plenty of caves and chasms to explore. Look up from time to time, as you may catch a glimpse of a golden eagle soaring across the scorching sky…. Is that enough, or shall we continue?

10. Madrid

The best for last We have to tell you about the capital to end on a high. It’s clear that Madrid deserves a week-long stay to explore its rich culture. A typical day in Madrid? Take a guided tour of Madrid’s Royal Palace, home to the Salón de las Columnas, the bedroom of King Carlos III and the Salón de los Espejos (Hall of Mirrors). Afterwards, how about a short break on the banks of the Plaza Mazor, which is clearly the heart of the capital? Finally, don’t hesitate to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Sabatini Gardens and the Campo del Moro. If you’re a botany enthusiast, you’re in luck!

10 places to visit, 10 reasons to buy your ticket! So go ahead, don’t hesitate!