Things to Do in Spain for First-Timers

Updated June 10, 2025
View of the town on the hills surrounded by greenery overlooking the ocean in Cala de Sant Francesc

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Beaches | Museums | Restaurants & Bars | Free Things To Do

Between the spectacular architecture, top museums, gorgeous beaches, and delectable food – Spain should be on pretty much every traveler’s list. 

There is intriguing regional culture around every corner of the country. However, this also means that there is a huge variety of potential things to do on a trip.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Spain, call off the searches because you’re finally in the right place. I’ve spent months exploring Spain’s top destinations and living in Barcelona. Now, I’m here to report my findings and help you nail down your itinerary.

Affiliate Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Best Things to Do in Spain

La Sagrada Familia

Stare in awe at Spain’s most famous tourist attraction located in Barcelona.

Perspective view of the enormous exterior of the under construction La Sagrada Familia
Enormous exterior of the basilica
View of the stained glass windows and the intricate interior of La Sagrada Familia
Rainbow interior of Sagrada Familia

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (932) 080-414 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am – 6 pm Sat, 10:30 am – 8 pm Sun | Entrance: €26, adults, Free under 11

It would be an injustice not to put Spain’s most iconic site right at the very top of this list.  La Sagrada Familia is one of the most popular attractions in Europe as a whole and is easily one of the best things to see in Barcelona.

More than 3 million people flock to this church every single year and there’s a good reason for it. The intricate little details designed by Gaudí at this basilica are so stunning that it can genuinely change your perspective. 

Due to its notoriety, expect big crowds, especially during the high season. You’ll also need to book your ticket online in advance. There is no in-person ticket booth. I made this mistake my first time, so take it from me.

I actually visited every nook and cranny of this attraction twice. Learn everything you possibly need to know about visiting by reading my full guide to La Sagrada Familia.

Park Güell

Explore 29 acres of otherworldly architectural masterpieces by Gaudí in Barcelona.

View of people visiting in Park Güell
The structures of Park Güell

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (934)-091-831 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: €18, adults, Free Under 6

When you’re staying in Barcelona, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Park Güell cannot be missed. This massive 29-acre park isn’t your everyday romp through the woods. 

It is filled with mind-bending structures designed by the brilliant mind of Gaudí himself. You’ll find something unexpected around every corner. It’s a dream come true for professional travel photographers and Instagrammers alike. 

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral 

Visit a unique cathedral in northern Spain where Saint James the Apostle is buried.

View from the outside of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
The facade of the cathedral at the end of the Camino de Santiago

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (934)-780-768 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: Free

At the very end of the famous Camino de Santiago trek, you’ll discover the imposing Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. 

This is a solid stop for anyone interested in architecture since it’s influenced by a few different styles. It’s also an important site in the Christian religion because the remains of Saint James the Apostle are kept here.

If you’re interested in doing the Camino, don’t forget to read Catherine’s articles on how the Camino de Santiago changed her life. She wrote another great piece on why her second Camino, Camino Primitivo, was even tougher than the first.

📚 Related Reading: What to Pack for the Camino de Santiago

Casa Batlló

Get to know local legend Antoni Gaudí’s work in this otherworldly masterpiece.

View of the colorful exterior from the rooftop of Casa Batlló
Rooftop of Casa Batlló
View of the colorful exterior of Casa Batlló
Colorful exterior of Casa Batlló

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +(932)-160-306 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 10:30 pm daily | Entrance: €29, adults, Free Under 12 | 👉 Browse Casa Batllo Tours on Viator

Another of Gaudí’s treasures in Spain is the striking Casa Batlló in Barcelona. The facade of the building alone is ethereal, but the real magic happens once you step inside. 

I actually thought this attraction would be a little underwhelming, especially after seeing Sagrada Familia already. But, each room truly blew my mind a little bit more. You’ll definitely want to have your camera handy.

There is something so mystical about the structure, and I loved learning about Gaudí’s inspiration through the audio guide. That’s why I highly suggest visiting with this Casa Batlló Intelligent Audio Guide because it really adds an extra layer to the experience.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville

Spend time at one of the most opulent palaces in all of Europe.

Clear blue sky over the Patio de Doncellas at Royal Alcázar in Seville
The stunning Patio de Doncellas at the Royal Alcázar of Seville

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (954)-502-324 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: €15.50, adults, Free under 13 | 👉 Browse Royal Alcazar of Seville Tours

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the best things to do in Seville, and the oldest royal palace in all of Europe that’s still in use to this day. 

While you’ll be entertained by simply wandering around the palace, you won’t really get the full picture of its influence on Sevillian culture this way.

Instead, join this highly-rated Alcazar and Cathedral of Seville Tour. It’s one is a great option for travelers short on time because it includes skip-the-line tickets. Plus, it also takes you on a bonus stop at the Seville Cathedral. 

📚 Related Reading: Where to Stay in Seville (Best Areas & Places)

El Caminito del Rey

Hike along a 100-year-old elevated pathway through the El Chorro gorge in Malaga.

View of a pathway at El Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey pathway

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 2:30 pm / 5:20 pm (depending on the season) | Entrance: €10 general admission | 👉 Browse Tours to El Caminito del Rey

Nature lovers with the adrenaline junkie gene will love El Caminito del Rey in Malaga. It’s a heart-pumping hike set on a suspended walkway high above the dramatic scenery of El Chorro Gorge. 

El Caminito del Rey has been a popular adventure for over a century, and it has some cool history linked to it, too. The trek is nearly 5 miles in total and takes around 2 hours to finish. Understandably, it can be daunting to complete the pilgrimage all by yourself.

That’s why I’d urge visitors to go with this Caminito del Rey Guided Tour from Malaga. That way, you won’t have to worry about transportation at all, and you’ll even get to stop at a traditional Andalusian white town called Ardales.

The Alhambra

Get a glimpse of this renowned, UNESCO-listed Islamic palace located in Granada.

Aerial view of The Alhambra fortress surrounded by greenery
The Alhambra fortress in Granada

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (958)-027-971 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 6 pm daily, until 9:30 pm Fri & Sat | Entrance: €22.27 general admission | 👉 Browse Alhambra Tours

Just when you think you’ve seen all the surprises of Spain’s architecture, there will be another incredible building to discover. Just look at the Alhambra in Granada for instance. 

The Alhambra is signified by its Islamic architecture and the place is breathtaking. It’s actually one of the most well-preserved Islamic palaces on the planet. So, you’ll get to see a dramatic structure and take in a bit of culture at the same time. 

I do recommend booking your Alhambra tickets beforehand. Depending on when you visit Spain, they can sell out weeks in advance.

Tablao Flamenco Cordobes Barcelona

Catch a traditional flamenco show in a beloved theater that’s been in business for over 50 years.

People performing at the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes Barcelona
Flamenco show (photo: criben / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (933)-175-711 | Website | Hours: Depends on Show | Entrance: €48-€83, adults | 👉 Book the Best Flamenco Shows

When you’re visiting Spain, there are so many different aspects of the local culture to explore. One of the most fun pieces is the art of traditional flamenco dance.

There are so many different venues to catch an authentic flamenco performance in Spain. If you’re in Barcelona though, you have to go to Tablao Flamenco Cordobes. 

This high-energy flamenco venue has been putting on performances since 1970, and you can really sense the expertise. You won’t be able to rip your eyes away from the stage for the entire 1.5-hour show.

The Royal Palace of Madrid

Stop by this emblematic Madrid landmark that serves as the official Spanish Royal Family residence.

Travel Lemming writer Clara Kesseler enjoying the overlooking view of the Sabatini Garden in front of the palace
TL writer Clara at the Royal Palace of Madrid

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (914)-548-700 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Mon-Sat, 10 am – 3 pm Sun | Entrance: €24, adults, Free under age 5

When you start figuring out the best things to do in Madrid, the Royal Palace of Madrid will likely end up at the top of your list. It’s one of the most famous attractions in all of Spain and a must-see when you’re visiting the capital city.

There are more than 3,000 different rooms, each with its own twist. While you can’t aimlessly wander to every single room in the Royal Palace, plenty of them are accessible and it can keep you busy for hours. 

Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Fill up your belly on local Spanish fare at this beautifully-designed marketplace in Malaga.

People shopping at the Mercado Central de Atarazanas
People shopping at Mercado Central de Atarazanas (photo: Oliver Foerstner / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951)-926-010 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 2 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: Free

If you’ve read any of my articles before, you know I’m a huge fan of visiting local markets as a traveler. I think it’s one of the best ways to get in touch with a city’s culture.

In Spain, one market you cannot miss is Mercado Central de Atarazanas in the southern city of Malaga. Mercado Central de Atarazanas is one of the best things to do in Malaga. It’s an exquisite establishment that pulls together all the coolest aspects of Spain. 

Endless rows of fresh produce will be splayed out on display and there are a bunch of ready-to-eat tapas bars as well. While the main pull is all the delicious Spanish cuisine, Atarazanas Market is also a beautiful building with huge stained glass windows towering over shoppers.

Cereria Subirà

Buy whimsical candles from the oldest store in Barcelona that opened over 260 years ago. 

View of the sculpture and the displays inside the Cereria Subirà
Inside the oldest store in Barcelona

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily, Closed Sundays | Entrance: Free

After spending months living in Barcelona, I was returning to the U.S. just in time for Christmas and knew exactly where I wanted to pick up some gifts. Cereria Subirà. 

This stunning candle shop is actually the oldest store in the whole city and first opened its doors back in 1761. Beyond the history, Cereria Subirà has a vast collection of eccentric and colorful candles for very reasonable prices. Plus, they package them up well to securely travel back home with you!

Teleferic de Montjuïc

See Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea from above on a ride from the park to MontjuΪc Castle. 

Overlooking view of the city from the cable car at Teleferic de Montjuic
View from inside the cable car at Teleferic de Montjuic

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (934)-655-313 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm, daily | Entrance: €17

One of the best ways for first-time visitors to get an introduction to Barcelona is to take a ride on the Teleferic de Montjuïc. This cable car runs from MontjuΪc Park all the way to MontjuΪc Castle. 

Along the scenic journey, you’ll be privy to expansive views of the whole city and the ocean. You can even clearly make out La Sagrada Familia in the distance from here. I think young kids would love this attraction, so it’s great for traveling as a family

Best Beaches in Spain

There are way more stunning beaches across the country than just the six listed below. Discover even more places to bask in the sun by reading my list of the best beaches in Spain.

Cala Comte Beach 

Take a dip in clear blue waters or grab a cocktail on this striking Ibiza beach.

View of the clear water in Cala Comte Beach
The stunning Platges de Comte beach in Ibiza

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

Ibiza is a notorious party destination, but it’s also known for offering some of the prettiest Mediterranean beaches in existence. 

Cala Comte Beach is a perfect example. It’s the type of place that looks almost too pretty to be real life. The water is crisply blue and it’s one of the nicest spots on the whole island to catch the sunset. 

Amadores Beach

Lounge on this spacious expanse of shore on Gran Canaria surrounded by delicious food.

View of people enjoying their day in Amadores Beach
Amadores Beach of the Canary Islands

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

The Spanish archipelago called the Canary Islands has many breathtaking seascapes. However, Amadores Beach reigns supreme. 

The beach is immaculately clean and encircled by top-notch places to eat, such as Restaurante Zenubia and Bistro Salsa. It is easily one of the nicest places to be during the summer in Spain.

Playa De Bolonia

Get away from all the hordes of tourists at this quiet, laid-back white dune beach in southern Spain.

View at the Playa De Bolonia during summer
Playa de Bolonia during the summer

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

If you’re the type of traveler who gets overwhelmed by super crowded beaches or just prefers a calmer atmosphere, you will appreciate Playa de Bolonia. Located near the Costa del Sol region, this beach is a little difficult to reach since it’s in a rather remote part of the country, but it’s worth it. 

You’ll be rewarded with endless expanses of pristine, white sand dune beaches and plenty of room to make yourself comfortable on a beach day in Spain.

Barceloneta Beach

Take a break from the city streets of Barcelona with a swim at this lively seaside.

View of the people walking around the La Barceloneta Beach
The popular Barceloneta Beach

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

When most people visit Barcelona, they are not thinking of a “beach holiday”. However, it truly is one of those beautiful Spanish cities that has it all, even beaches. 

There are quite a few lovely beaches dotted along Barcelona’s coastline, but the most well-known is Barceloneta Beach. It’s only a quick walk from the city center, yet it still feels like a full-blown escape to the ocean.

Burriana Beach

Rent a kayak and hit the sea in the Andalusian paradise of Nerja.

Travel Lemming Senior Writer Sky Ariella on a kayaking tour from Burriana Beach
Senior TL Writer Sky on a kayaking tour from Burriana Beach

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (952)-521-531 | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

Nerja is a hidden gem on Costa del Sol on the south coast of Spain. At the heart of this region is  Burriana Beach.

This lively public beach is the perfect place to kick off a day of water sports. Specifically, renting a kayak or paddle boat is a favorite activity here. 

Guided tours can take you out to get a new perspective of the rocky coastline, like this Kayak Route Cliffs of Nerja and Maro Tour.

It’s an exciting excursion that will get your heart pumping after endless days of beach relaxation. It even comes with photos throughout the activity to capture the memory forever.  

Cala Bona

Relax and take a dip at this peaceful, less-frequented beach on Costa Brava. 

A couple relaxing along the shoreline on Cala Bona
People relaxing on Cala Bona

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

A big problem with many of Spain’s best beaches is that they’re completely overrun with visitors. Luckily, you won’t encounter that issue as much on Cala Bona. 

This little sandy cove is tucked away in the Costa Brava town of Blanes. You’ll need to head down a bit of a hiking trail to reach it. In my opinion, the extra effort to reach Cala Bona is a worthwhile investment though because it’s immaculate. 

There is plenty of room to spread out along the seashore, and the water conditions are perfect for snorkeling. The sea is even calm enough for children to join in, so families will adore this one.

Best Museums in Spain

These are a few of the stand-outs, but you can see my full list of the best museums in Spain for even more.

Museo del Prado

Wander through a prominent Madrid art museum featuring artists like Goya, El Greco, and Diego Velázquez.

The Museo del Prado from the outside
The outside of the Prado Museum (photo: BobNoah / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (913)-302-800 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Sat, 10 am – 7 pm, Sun | Entrance: €15

Spain is filled to the brim with impressive museums, but one of the most world-renowned is Museo del Prado. This Spanish art museum is distinguished by its enormous collection with over 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures to ogle. 

Here you’ll get to meet masterpieces by distinguished European artists like El Greco and Diego Velázquez. Whether you’re a big art fan or just a novice, you’ll appreciate Museo del Prado.

I’d definitely splurge for this Prado Museum Small Group Tour. It comes with a skip-the-line ticket that will save you so much time, and you’ll get much deeper insight into the art with an experienced guide by your side.

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

Dive into the world of science at this futuristic-looking museum in Valencia that’s a big hit with kids.

Travel Lemming Editor, Lea Rose Allbaugh, posing for a photo at the signage of VALENCIA
TL Managing Editor Lea Rose at Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (961)-974-686 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: €12 (single entry & access to one enclosure) | 👉 Browse Ciudad de las Artes Tours

Ciudad de Las Artes y Las Ciencias is a museum complex for travelers who are fascinated with understanding the world around them. Located in the coastal city of Valencia, this place will fascinate you from the moment you lay your eyes on the façade.

On the outside, Ciudad de Las Artes y Las Ciencias looks like something from a futuristic sci-fi universe. Once inside, you’ll be treated to an enormous complex of museums packed with informative exhibits and hands-on activities.

📚 Related Reading: Where to Stay in Valencia

The Picasso Museum

Learn more about Spain’s most famous artist inside a medieval mansion complex in Barcelona.

A woman looking at a painting inside The Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona (photo: Salvador Maniquiz / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (932)-563-000 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm Tue-Wed & Sun, 9 am – 9 pm Thu-Sat, Closed Mon | Entrance: €15, adults, Free under age 18

For most people, the name “Pablo Picasso” rings with recognition, but have you ever seen a treasure trove of his artwork before? 

In Barcelona, you’ll have that opportunity at the Picasso Museum. There are over 4,200 authentic pieces crafted by the Spanish artist’s hands here. It’s one of the finest art collections on the Iberian Peninsula.

Once again, there’s seeing this attraction and then there is truly understanding it. For the latter, join this Picasso Museum and Walking Tour. You can even upgrade the experience to include a food and wine tasting after wandering the artwork.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Take a gander at hundreds of 20th-century artworks in Spain’s version of this celebrated museum.

Aerial view of the unique structure of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
The outside of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Northern Spain (photo: Santi Rodriguez / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (944)-359-080 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: €18, adults, Free under age 18

Before I went to Spain, I foolishly thought there was only one single Guggenheim in New York City. In reality, there are four around the world, including one in Northern Spain. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao contains a respectable collection of 20th-century artwork. 

This is another Spain attraction that’s a two-for-one thanks to its show-stopping architecture. The giant silvery exterior of the museum looks like waves on the city’s skyline.

Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum

Get a taste of European artwork over the past thousand years at this exceptional museum right on the Art Walk of Madrid.

View of the people inside the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
Inside the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum (photo: TK Kurikawa / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (917)-911-370 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Tue-Sun, 12 pm – 4 pm Mon | Entrance: €14, adults, Free under age 18

Visitors looking for a huge collection of European art will find everything their heart desires at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. The collection contains works from the past couple of centuries.

There is something for every artistic taste at this place, with pieces ranging from strange and humorous to historic and striking. You’re really doing yourself an injustice if you leave this Madrid museum off your Spain itinerary

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of our Spain itinerary here!

Moco Museum Barcelona

Experience outside-of-the-box exhibits by Salvador Dalí, Jean-Michael Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Marina Abramović in Barcelona.

Travel Lemming Senior Writer Sky Ariella posing for a photo inside the colorful interior of Moco Museum
TL Senior Writer Sky at Moco Museum
View of the 3D Exhibit of the moon at the Moco Museum
3D Exhibit at the Moco Museum

📍 Google Maps | (936)-291-858 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: €15.95

Even though the Moco Museum is hidden away in a small corner of Barcelona’s city center, it houses pieces by some of the most famous artists in the world. We’re talking Banksy, Keith Haring, Salvador Dalí, Basquiat, and one of my personal favorites, Marina Abramović. 

Many of the exhibitions are very thought-provoking, while others are amusing or simply captivating. I think this could be a fun place to take kids for the vibrant atmosphere, but there’s still a deeper meaning there for adults to be intrigued as well.

Best Places To Eat & Drink in Spain

Disfrutar

Dine on a menu crafted by three master chefs at the #1 best restaurant in the entire world.

Closeup look of the creative plating presentation at Disfrutar
Expect creative presentations at Disfrutar

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (933)-486-896 | Website | Hours: 12:30 pm – 2 pm & 7:30 pm – 9 pm Mon-Fri, Closed Sat & Sun 

When you take a trip to Spain, you know you’re guaranteed some of the best meals of your life no matter where you dine. If you truly want the cream of the crop though, you’ll find it at Disfrutar. 

Located in Barcelona, Disfrutar is the best restaurant on the planet. No – genuinely. As of 2024, it’s actually ranked as the #1 restaurant in the world for its innovative plates that are unlike anything else. [Source]

Disfrutar is a fine dining paradise serving dishes that walk the line between art and food. They’re especially well-known for their mindfully crafted tasting menu. It’s best paired with Disfrutar’s series of international and Spanish wines.

Paradiso

Tackle Barcelona’s legendary nightlife at the #1 ranked the best bar on the planet.

A bartender preparing a cocktail at the Paradiso
You’ll remember the cocktails at Paradiso forever

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 5 pm – 2 am Mon-Wed, 4:30 pm – 2:30 am Thu-Sun

Let’s cut to the chase – Spain’s nightlife is some of the most intoxicating on the planet. Out of all those invigorating bars and clubs, the best one in the whole country is Barcelona’s Paradiso. 

Not only is this considered the best cocktail bar in the entire city, but it has also managed to steal the top spot as the #1 bar in the world. The stellar atmosphere and eye-catching cocktails equally contribute to this impressive ranking.

DSTAgE

Get the full fine dining experience at this two-star Michelin restaurant in Madrid.

A decorated plate with a meal served in DSTAgE
The plates at DSTAgE are so pretty that you may have trouble eating them

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (917)-021-586 | Website | Hours: 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Tue-Thu, 1:30 pm – 3 pm & 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Fri-Sat, Closed Sun & Mon

Madrid’s restaurant scene is extensive, yet no other restaurant in the whole city is quite like DSTAgE. This fine dining restaurant has truly mastered the art of creatively prepared food.

Every time your waiter brings you another dish, you’ll be left with your jaw on the floor with both amazement and sometimes a bit of confusion. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that all the food is absolutely delicious. 

Mercado de La Boqueria

Shop for munchies like local cheese and meats at this classic indoor market in the heart of Barcelona.

View of the people shopping inside Mercado de la Boqueria
People shopping at Mercado de la Boqueria

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (934)-132-303 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8:30 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: Free

Remember my earlier comment about how much I love markets in Spain? Well, another reason for the affinity is that markets are completely free to visit. It’s the perfect filler activity for any travelers on a budget in Europe. Although you’ll probably want to grab a few low-cost treats. 

In Barcelona, you have to spend some time at Mercado de la Boqueria. It’s practically a historic landmark because it’s been in operation for nearly 200 years. There is no better way to end a day of exploring in Spain than stopping by this stunning market and picking yourself up some locally sourced yummies.

Alternatively, you can take your experience to the next level with this Barcelona Markets Tour that accompanies you to Boqueria and Mercado de Santa Caterina with optional tastings for an additional fee.

Free Stuff To Do in Spain

El Retiro Park

Stroll through a Madrid park with hundreds of years of history, impressive monuments, and a lake for boating.

Travel Lemming’s founder Nate Hake at El Retiro Park with paddleboats in the background
TL Founder Nate at El Retiro Park

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am -10 pm daily | Entrance: Free

One of the best spots for hanging out and taking photos in Madrid also happens to be completely free – El Retiro Park. El Retiro is one of the largest parks in Spain with over 300 acres to explore. 

Within those bounds is a maze of massive statues, exquisite buildings, and even a huge lake where you can rent a boat. You’ll have to pay for that privilege, though. 

As you wander around this huge park, there will be new things to stumble upon each day, from food vendors to little street performances. Even though it doesn’t cost a penny to visit, you can easily be entertained by this park for hours, if not days. 

Puente Nuevo Ronda

Take a hike around Ronda in southern Spain to get various angles of this statuesque bridge.

View of a bridge in Puente Nuevo Ronda
Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda

📍 Google Maps | Website | Entrance: Free

Although Ronda is a little off the beaten path, it’s secretly one of the most charming places to visit in Spain. There is one central attraction in this quaint town that just so happens to be free of charge – the Puente Nuevo Bridge. 

You walk across this behemoth of a stone bridge to get into the town’s city center. Alternatively, you can take hikes around the area to get an even better view from below. Either way, it won’t cost you any money. 

Plaza de España

Take photos of this stunning square that’s often considered the best landmark in Seville.

Travel Lemming Editor, Lea Rose Allbaugh, posing for a photo with an overlooking view of the Plaza de España
TL Managing Editor Lea Rose at Plaza de España

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 8 am – 12 am daily | Entrance: Free

Between eating at all the incredible restaurants in Seville and visiting the sites, you’ll probably have a fairly packed schedule. Make sure you don’t miss out on stopping by Plaza de España, though.

This famous attraction is totally free to visit and super photogenic, so have your camera at the ready.

Plaza Mayor

Grab some coffee or just enjoy the people-watching at the most famous square in Madrid.

Travel Lemming’s founder Nate Hake and his partner Clara Kesseler smiling for a photo in Plaza Mayor
Nate and Clara at Plaza Mayor in Madrid

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

For a major city, Madrid actually has a surprisingly long list of free things to do, like visiting Plaza Mayor. Despite its nonexistent price tag, this square is actually one of the most famous places for travelers to check out in the city. 

A lot of visitors grab a drink or food at one of the places around the perimeter, but it’s equally as fun just to sit down somewhere and people-watch.

Sa Palomera

Watch the sunset roll in over the town of Blanes from this rock formation that’s free to walk up.

A flag on the peak of the island rock at dusk
The island rock at dusk
Aerial view of the waterfront Blanes from Sa Palomera
Views of Blanes from Sa Palomera

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

You can travel on a budget in Spain and still experience incredible things. Sa Palomera is blatant proof of this. The tiny island or large rock formation is right next to the adorable town of Blanes. 

It doesn’t cost anything to trek up to the top of Sa Palomera, and it is the ultimate spot to watch a fiery Spanish sunset. I found it to be an amazing location to capture landscape photography, too. When I visited Sa Palomera, I just took the train from Barcelona to Blanes. 

If you have limited time in Spain, I’d recommend opting for this Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour instead. You’ll visit Blanes for a traditional lunch, be able to see Sa Palomera, and even spend time in Tossa de Mar all in one day. 

Ciutadella Park

Check out architectural wonders, bike around, or just hang out at this huge Barcelona green space with free entry. 

Magnificent view of the Cascada Monumental at Ciutadella Park
Cascada Monumental at Ciutadella Park

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10:30 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Calling all budget travelers in Spain – you’re going to want to add Ciutadella Park to your Barcelona itinerary immediately. This 70-acre park is the largest in the whole city, and it is completely free to visit. 

At Ciutadella, you’ll come across magnificent statues and architectural works every few paces. The key sites are the Arc de Triomf, the Cascada Monumental, and the Parliament of Catalonia. But, there’s much more than just that. The entire place is delightful and ideal for a full afternoon.  

Murallas de Tossa de Mar

Stroll along a piece of Spanish history constructed in the 12th century with stunning views over Tossa de Mar. 

View of the Murallas de Tossa de Mar from the beach
The walls from the beach
View of the ocean from the window of Murallas de Tossa de Mar
The ocean from the wall’s window

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 Daily | Entrance: Free

There is so much history to discover across Spain and you can combine that with a beachy atmosphere at Murallas de Tossa de Mar. 

These fortification walls were built more than 800 years ago and are still standing in impressive condition to this day. Visitors are welcome to walk along the walls free of charge and take in excellent views of Tossa de Mar and Platja Gran beach. 
This attraction is one of the best day trips from Barcelona since it’s only a little over an hour away on public transportation. After checking out the walls, you can spend a few hours exploring Tossa de Mar or unwinding on the beach.

***

Did you know there were so many varied experiences across Spain? I hope you found at least one thing to do on your trip that you didn’t know about before. If you did, let me know in the comments!

Almost equally important to your itinerary is your packing list. So, don’t forget to read my ultimate Spain packing list next. Disfruta España!

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of our Spain packing list here!

Lea Rose Allbaugh contributed to this article.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave feedback after clicking submit)

Help us help you travel better!

Your feedback really helps ...

What did you like about this post? Or how can we improve it to help you travel better?

Leave a Reply

Comments and questions about the topic of this article are welcome. Comments must follow our Community Guidelines. Most importantly be kind & be helpful!

Your email address will not be published. We'll email you when someone replies.