The heart of Spain is Meseta. It is a broad central plateau that lies half a mile above sea level. The northeast of Spain is full of mountains, a valley, and a hilly coastal plain. Nature’s wonder, the city lights, works, famous events and sports, Spain is home to all of these and much more!
Airports, Airlines, and Accommodations
Madrid Airport is the major international airport of Spain. It is also the largest airport in Europe and is the 6th busiest one. Some of the other international airports in Spain include Barcelona Airport and Ibiza Airport. Some of the airlines that facilitate the travel between India and Spain are Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, GoAir etc.
There will not be any shortage of luxury hotels in Spain for your stay!
A 7 day trip to Spain for a solo traveler would require an amount of INR 90,000 to INR 1,20,000.
Spanish Art and style!
Spanish art and culture need no introduction but the two major architectural styles that stand out and loud are Gothic and Islamic. The structures dominated by these styles are something that everyone marvels at. Alhambra, an old fortress situated in the region of Granada, Andalusia, stands out as one of the most interesting pieces of architecture in Spain. Its beautiful melange of two cultures and art styles is what makes it even more marvellous. With structures like these, it is very easy to get lost in the beauty around and lose the track of time.
When we talk about art it’s not only limited to architecture but also the other forms, especially dance. Flamenco is the world-famous Spanish dance form that is nothing less than a wonder to witness. It is a very difficult dance form to master. In 2010, Flamenco was declared as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
La Tomatina!
Spain is world-famous for many festivals and events but La Tomatina stands out!
It is one of the most popular and fun festivals in Spain. The tomatoes that are used in this festival are grown especially for this purpose only. The tomatoes used here are not fit for consumption. There are several rules that the participants have to follow but it is what makes this festival even more fun!
I took a pill in Ibiza!
Are you a clubbing person? Then Ibiza is a paradise for you!
It has become internationally famous for summer clubbing, electronic dance, events and nightlife. It houses some of the best clubs from all over the world. The venues create an amazing atmosphere and give you unforgettable experiences! This isn’t any club that you should miss, each one of them has its vibes. There is a party calendar and it’s a blast every day and every night!
Ibiza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and doesn’t fail to attract tourists in abundance, from all over the world!
Hala Madrid!
There isn’t any one thing Madrid is famous for. It is well known for museums, architecture, sites and whatnot. Not only the sites but the nightlife of the city is unforgettable.
The most famous museums of the city include El Prado Museum, the Prado Museum with a collection of more than 8,000 paintings and 700 sculptures, etc.
Some of the other must-visit sights to see include the Retiro Park, the Royal Palace and Gardens, Plaza Mayor (the capital’s main square), and the Temple of Debod.
The city is full of cultural and architectural points of interest and wonder.
Royal Palace and Gardens is a destination not to miss. It doesn’t only serve as a museum but is also still the official residence of a monarch (the King of Spain) and continues to be used for official State events.
The Plaza Mayor is where all the important gatherings take place. It is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and places to hang out and enjoy the site, especially in the evening.
Puerta del Sol is the Heart of the City. It was named after the sun emblem on the old city gate, which formerly stood at this place. It’s not to be missed when in Madrid!
The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is Madrid’s centre for contemporary art. It is a sleek modern building created that is no less than a contemporary architectural wonder.
The CentroCentro cultural centre is yet another one of the things that are just visited in the city of Madrid. It hosts art exhibitions and workshops, conferences, and concerts. It has two restaurants, the Colección Cibeles café and the Palacio de Cibeles restaurant on the sixth floor. Both are elegant dining establishments with spectacular city views.
Barcelona
While in Barcelona, do visit Sagrada Familia. It is a UNESCO listed destination which is located in the northern section of the city. The church is surrounded by 18 extraordinarily beautiful towers. As a first time visitor, you will not be any less than completely awe-struck by the impressive exterior of the church. It depicts a lot of things including the birth of Jesus, the sufferings he had to endure during his lifetime, his death, and the story of his resurrection.
Another one of the architectural marvels in Spain includes Casa Mila. It is also known as La Pedrera among the locals. It is a sensational piece of sculpture because of its eloquently curved facades. There are several other things that make it look even more elegant like its beautiful plant-shaped balconies, unique windows etc.
One of the most famous streets in Barcelona starts from Plaça de Catalunya and ends at the statue of Christopher Columbus down by the port. It stretches over 1.2 km.
Are you an artist or someone with that eye? Then you must visit the MNAC and its Romanesque art collection. There are museums, emphasis on art and design, and whatnot. Another one of the must-visit museums in Catalonia’s national art museum.
The highlight is the Romanesque collection, featuring one of the biggest collections of paintings on wood in Europe. The museum’s modern art floor features sculpture, painting, photography, posters, video pieces and decorative arts.
Want to visit the most atmospheric part of the city? Visit Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. It is characterised by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings. It is located to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the centre of the old town. It’s filled with century-old shops, small bars and cafes. Best to explore the city, the food, ambience and Instagram worthy picture spots!
Other places to explore!
Now, Spain isn’t only Madrid and Barcelona. There are several other cities worth your visit!
Seville is the capital of the Andalusia region and very popular for its sunny weather, flamenco dancing, and some of Spain’s most historical landmarks like the Alcazar Castle complex, the Gothic Seville Cathedral where Christopher Columbus’ tomb lies etc.
It is a very lively and fun city with a lot of sensational museums, art exhibitions, theatres, and theme parks. The city will make sure that you’re having a good time!
Palma de Mallorca is the perfect location for sun-seekers. The beaches are the main attraction of the city. But beaches aren’t the only interesting thing that the city has got! It features many magnificent landmarks worth visiting like the Royal Palace of la Almudena and the cathedral.
Visit Palma, the capital of the island of Mallorca. The island is situated in the Balearic Sea. You can not only explore this island but also visit Menorca which is also very beautiful.
Granada, Spain’s southern Andalusia region sits in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The city is most famous for its marvellous medieval architecture. It is also known for its electric atmosphere. There are numerous tapas bars, restaurants, bohemian cafes, and flamenco clubs where you can have a lot of fun.
Food in Spain!
Tapas is not just a style of eating, it’s culture!
It began as a free bar snack to tide customers but has since evolved into a national, and now international, obsession. Every bar has its unique version of Tapas. The classic version is the tortilla, tomato on bread, garlic prawns, fried potatoes with spicy sauce, ham and cheese, and chorizo. In some bars, everyone throws their used toothpicks and napkins on the floor, as a compliment. This act is considered a compliment, so the more on the floor, the better the tapas.
Patatas bravas or ‘brave potatoes’ are one of the most common tapas that you can find almost everywhere. These are small, fried chunks of potatoes with hot and spicy toppings, don’t say that we didn’t warn you!
Paella, one of the most traditional and famous rice dishes in Spain, is served in several varieties. The first one you should try is Valencia paella. The most traditional variations of this dish are made with rabbit, chicken or seafood.
Gazpacho, we assure you it’s not your regular tomato soup!
The only thing you can do is to try it and find out why a seemingly simple dish is so popular and is a favourite to many. A proper, classic gazpacho is made from only fresh tomatoes, cucumber, red bell peppers, garlic, bread, and olive oil blended into a smooth, refreshing liquid. Believe us or try it yourself, not your regular tomato soup!
When it comes to meat dishes, don’t miss out on one of the most famous Spanish foods to go crazy for, jamón. It is cooked in a way so that it can be preserved to be consumed throughout the long winter.
Craving sweets? Churros are on your way!
It is a sweet, popular snack of hot fried dough coated in sugar crystals. They’re long and spiral, making them perfect to munch. You will find these tasty treats anywhere and everywhere, but it is best enjoyed by the local vendors from the streets!
A trip to Spain is incomplete without a glass or two of sangria!
This goes back to a long long time in the past when water was not always safe to drink. So the wine was added to the water in Hopes that all the bacteria in the water would be killed. Hence, wine was often added to the water with the hopes that the alcohol would kill any bacteria in the drink.
Trip Summary
Spain, a paradise for the traveller inside of you, and feast to your wanderlust is a country that serves all. From the old contemporary architecture to the famous club’s to have the best nights of your life, this country offers all. The street food is a treat, and the fine dining is no less. It won’t be surprising if this country makes you lengthen your stay because you didn’t have your fill yet!
There isn’t one reason why you shouldn’t visit this country, and the list of reasons saying why you should be never-ending. The country with its stunning cultural heritage is an experience in itself.
