Spain is made up of 17 autonomous regions and each region has its own distinctive culture, traditions and gastronomy. Then there are the two autonomous African cities of Ceuta and Melilla.
Three languages are spoken in Spain: Castilian, Catalan and Basque. On top of that, there are a multitude of dialects.
Area: 506,030 km²
Population: Spain has 48,592,909 inhabitants (2024)
Capital: Madrid
Here you’ll find an overview with inspiration for your next trip to Spain, divided into regions. You’ll find everything from city breaks to nature experiences in Spain, as well as guides to the gastronomy of different cities and regions. You can also use it as a travel guide to the couch area.
ANDALUSIA
Andalusia is Spain’s largest region in terms of population, which is 8,628,026 (2024)
Area: 87,597 km²
Capital: Seville
ARAGONIAN
Aragon is Spain’s 11th largest region by population, which is 1,346,806 (2024)
Area: 47,720 km2
Capital: Zaragoza
Travel journalist’s insidertips for Northern Spain
Brian Schaefer Dreyer lives in Madrid, but the whole of Spain is his workplace, giving him an in-depth knowledge of the entire country. Brian has a special love for the northern part of Spain. Here are his personal tips for overlooked places worth visiting in Northern Spain.
Hop on the train for christmas getaway in the spanish cities
Go Christmas shopping in Barcelona, designer Christmas markets in Madrid, taste Valencia’s sweet Christmas treats, go ice skating in Zaragoza, immerse yourself in the Christmas gospel in Seville and see Málaga’s famous Christmas decorations. If you hop on the Spanish high-speed train, you can experience the magic of Christmas in several Spanish cities in one […]
ASTURIAN
Asturias is Spain’s 14th largest region by population, which is 1,008,876 (2024)
Area: 10,604 km²
Capital: Oviedo
Explore the sculptures of Oviedo
The center of Oviedo is an outdoor art museum sprinkled with sculptures. Here you can meet everything from film director Woody Allen and a famous pop singer to a stray dog and a giant ass. Plus, you’ll get a different insight into Oviedo’s important personalities.
5 boutique hotels in Oviedo worth checking into
The colorful streets and squares of the Asturian capital await. I’ve hand-picked a selection of the best boutique hotels in Oviedo where you can say good night to the city.
Guide to Oviedo: Spend a colorful weekend in Asturias’ overlooked capital
Colorful squares, historic churches and palaces, impressive Spanish art collection, local food and cider by the gallon. Oviedo is not called the most beautiful capital of Northern Spain for nothing.
Asturias: 5 reasons to visit Picos de Europa
Located in northern Spain between the regions of Cantabria, Asturias and Castilla y León, the Picos de Europa National Park is an underrated area. An important shrine, spectacular lakes, a historic village, award-winning cheese and a spectacular viewpoint are great reasons to visit Europe’s peaks at least once.
5 beautiful coastal towns in Asturias you must visit
Spain’s green coastline is dotted with picturesque towns and cities. Here you’ll find miles of beautiful beaches, spectacular views, exciting cultural history and plenty of local life. Here are five must-visit cities in the overlooked region of Asturias.
BAlEARIAN ISLANDS
The Balearic Islands are Spain’s 12th largest region in terms of population, which is 1,231,487 (2024)
Area: 4,992 km²
Capital city: Palma
7 art exhibitions in Spain worth traveling for in 2026
A wealth of acclaimed artists are showcased in paintings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The Spanish art scene is filled with exciting exhibitions in 2026 that I can’t wait to see.
Guide: The best things to do in Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca’s largest city has cozy narrow streets, beautiful architecture, exciting art, charming squares and local life. Here you can combine a city break with relaxing on the beach.
Here you’ll find Mallorca’s secret places
The travel guide “111 Places in Mallorca That You Shouldn’t Miss” is a must-have if you want to discover Mallorca’s unknown gems, away from the tourist hordes. Here are tips for everything from nature and cultural experiences to small local shops and fincas.
5 cities in Mallorca that you shouldn’t miss
Culture, architecture, nature, beaches and delicious food and wine. Mallorca’s charming towns have something for everyone and the island is no bigger than you can get to them all in a short amount of time.
Hiking in Mallorca’s Tramuntana Mountains
Seasoned hikers and travel bloggers Toni and Helle give you their top tips for the popular GR221 hiking route in Mallorca.
Easter in Palma de Mallorca
In Mallorca’s largest city, Palma, Easter is celebrated with processions throughout the city, masses in the famous La Seu cathedral and a theatre performance about the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Taste of Menorca
Menorca is full of delicious local specialities that are worth trying when you’re on the island. Some of them you can also put in your suitcase and take home. Mahón-ost Queso Mahón er kendt langt udenfor hjemøen, og den er blevet en specialitet på højde med franske oste. Mahón-osten er lavet af komælk fra øens […]
BASQUE COUNTRY
The Basque Country is Spain’s 7th largest region by population, which is 2,227,746 (2024)
Area: 7,234 km²
Capital: Vitoria-Gasteiz
Guide to La Vieja in Bilbao: Colorful bohemian quater
La Vieja is Bilbao’s oldest working-class neighborhood. Today it’s transformed into a cool and vibrant neighborhood filled with street art, galleries, design, hip cafés and creative restaurants. With high ceilings, you can breathe in a true bohemian vibe mixed with multicultural local life.
Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao: Architectural gem that made Bilbao an international art center
The spectacular Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is not only one of Spain’s greatest modern architectural gems. The museum is packed with international art, both inside and out. And you’ll eat well at the museum’s bistro.
7 art exhibitions in Spain worth traveling for in 2026
A wealth of acclaimed artists are showcased in paintings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The Spanish art scene is filled with exciting exhibitions in 2026 that I can’t wait to see.
Here are the best things to do in Bilbao
Guide to Bilbao. Here you get the best experiences.
Ercilla Hotel: elegant accommodation in Bilbao city centre
At the 4-star Ercilla Hotel, you can enjoy luxurious accommodation in the centre of Bilbao. And you get the best view in town from the rooftop terrace.
CASTILLA Y LEON
Castilla y León is Spain’s 6th largest region by population, which is 2,390,452 (2024)
Area: 94,222 km²
Capital: Valladolid
Travel journalist’s insidertips for Northern Spain
Brian Schaefer Dreyer lives in Madrid, but the whole of Spain is his workplace, giving him an in-depth knowledge of the entire country. Brian has a special love for the northern part of Spain. Here are his personal tips for overlooked places worth visiting in Northern Spain.
CASTILLA-LA MANCHA
Castilla-La Mancha is the 9th largest region in Spain by population, which is 2,103,588 (2024)
Area: 79,463 km²
Capital: Toledo
Guide to Cuenca in Castilla La-Mancha: Hanging houses, spectacular views and gourmet food
Cuenca is known for its old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city, which is Spain’s gastronomic capital in 2023, also offers exquisite gastronomy. Cuenca is just an hour by train from Madrid and is ideal for a day or weekend visit.
Day trip to Toledo: discover the multicultural treasures of Spain’s former capital
Beautifully set on a cliff top surrounded by the Tejo River, Toledo is known as the city of the three cultures and the home of the artist El Greco. In the old town, you can walk the streets that Christians, Muslims and Jews have shared for centuries, see historic architecture and, not least, El Greco’s […]
Discover El Grecos Toledo
The painter El Greco lived in and made Toledo famous with his landscape paintings of the city. Walk in the artist’s footsteps through Toledo and see some of his most famous works and the places that have had an impact on the artist. El Greco – born Domenikos Theotokopoulos (1541-1614) lived and worked in Toledo […]
CATALONIA
Catalonia is Spain’s 2nd largest region by population, which is 7,522,596 (2024)
Area: 32,114 km²
Capital city: Barcelona
Guide: Here are 10 things to do in Girona
There are many good reasons to visit Barcelona’s overlooked little sister Girona, which is elegant, stylish and colourful. Girona’s cinematic charm, architecture and art combine with a rich cultural history and forward-thinking modernity.
Where to eat and drink in Girona
You eat well in Girona. The Catalan city is not only home to one of Spain’s most famous Michelin-starred restaurants. Girona has plenty of other great restaurants, breakfast and brunch cafés and delicatessens.
7 art exhibitions in Spain worth traveling for in 2026
A wealth of acclaimed artists are showcased in paintings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The Spanish art scene is filled with exciting exhibitions in 2026 that I can’t wait to see.
Tren dels Llacs: Catalonia’s most beautiful train journey
Hop on the historic train in the Pre-Pyrenees, just an hour from Barcelona. Enjoy panoramic views of crystal clear lakes, deep gorges and lush valleys as the train rumbles through mountains, bridges and tunnels.
The 7 best day trips from Barcelona
Within a short distance from Barcelona, you’ll find plenty of great small towns, culture, wine and nature experiences. So take a break from your city break and go on an excursion in the Catalan region.
6 of the best boutique hotels in Barcelona
Where should you stay in Barcelona? The city’s huge selection of hotels can be overwhelming. I often choose to check into a boutique hotel in Barcelona because I like smaller places with personality. Here are my favorites in Barcelona.
Poblenou Barcelona: A day in one of Barcelona’s coolest neighborhoods
Polbenou is one of Barcelona’s most bubbly, creative neighborhoods, yet free from the tourist hordes. Here you can blend in with the locals and a solid dose of culture fix.
Vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona: Here are 4 favorites
Vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona.
Graffiti artist’s insider tip for Blanes
Graffiti artist and street art guide Javier Garcia lives in the Catalan city of Blanes, also known as the “Gateway to the Costa Brava”. Here he shares his favorite travel tips in the small, quiet town that’s perfect for slow travel.
Hop on the train for christmas getaway in the spanish cities
Go Christmas shopping in Barcelona, designer Christmas markets in Madrid, taste Valencia’s sweet Christmas treats, go ice skating in Zaragoza, immerse yourself in the Christmas gospel in Seville and see Málaga’s famous Christmas decorations. If you hop on the Spanish high-speed train, you can experience the magic of Christmas in several Spanish cities in one […]
THE CANARY ISLANDS
The Canary Islands are Spain’s 8th largest region in terms of population, which is 2,236,013 (2024)
Area: 7,492 km²
Capitals: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Nature and culture on the Canary Island: 12 of the best experiences in Tenerife
Volcanoes, black and white sand beaches, charming villages and culture-rich cities. Tenerife has it all. There are many reasons to explore the sun-drenched Canary Island.
7 Spanish Paradores with stunning pool views
Are you dreaming of a vacation where you can relax in the hotel pool while enjoying sunset views of the sea, green fields or mountain landscapes? Spanish state-owned Parador hotels hide luxurious pools in postcard-perfect surroundings.
LA RIOJA
La Rioja is the 17th largest region in Spain in terms of population, which is 324,009 (2024)
Area: 5,045 km²
Capital: Logroño
The wine region of a thousand colours: 6 autumn experiences in La Rioja
Spain’s smallest region is known for being shrouded in changing, beautiful colour palettes according to the season. In autumn, La Rioja is covered in the most beautiful yellow, brown, red, blue and green colors. A perfect time to explore La Rioja’s cultural, food and wine experiences.
MADRID
Madrid is the 3rd largest region in Spain by population, which is 7,000,621 (2024)
Area: 8.028 Km2
Capital: Madrid
5 great laptop-friendly cafes in Madrid
Are you a digital nomad, have you brought some work with you on vacation, or are you looking for a café with free Wi-Fi where you can enjoy your laptop? Here you’ll find cozy, laptop-friendly cafés in Madrid where you can sit and drink coffee for as long as you want.
First-timers’ guide to Madrid: What you shouldn’t miss in Spain’s capital
You’ll never be done with Spain’s largest city. There’s always more to see in Madrid. Here’s an introduction to the city’s most iconic sites to inspire you on your first visit to Madrid.
7 art exhibitions in Spain worth traveling for in 2026
A wealth of acclaimed artists are showcased in paintings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The Spanish art scene is filled with exciting exhibitions in 2026 that I can’t wait to see.
Dear Hotel Madrid: Boutique atmosphere and superb views
Stay at a boutique hotel in the center of Madrid where you can relax in stylish designer rooms in luxurious surroundings. And get the city’s most spectacular views included in the price.
The Prado Museum in Madrid: World-class art
The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections and is a must-see when in Madrid. Take your time to explore the famous collection of Spanish and European paintings.
Guide: Here’s where to experience something different in Madrid
Have you visited Madrid’s main sights, or do you just fancy some alternative experiences in Madrid? The Spanish capital is packed with different experiences and interesting stories. Visit the new Banksy Museum, the surprising Central Station, beautiful gardens and eat tapas with the locals.
Alternative art experiences in Madrid
Once you’ve visited the three famous art museums, Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza, there are still many exciting art experiences waiting for you in Madrid.
Guide: 5 highlights at PhotoEspaña 2024 in Madrid
This year’s edition of the international photography festival PhotoEspaña features both established and young local and international photographers. Threads are drawn from the past into the future, conveyed from poetic and aesthetic staging to raw and humorous realism.
10 sustainable experiences in Madrid
Madrid is one of the greenest capitals in the world in terms of the number of trees, and the city has plenty of natural oases. The Spanish capital also has a growing number of sustainable and organic restaurants and shopping options, so you have plenty of opportunities for a green city break.
Hop on the train for christmas getaway in the spanish cities
Go Christmas shopping in Barcelona, designer Christmas markets in Madrid, taste Valencia’s sweet Christmas treats, go ice skating in Zaragoza, immerse yourself in the Christmas gospel in Seville and see Málaga’s famous Christmas decorations. If you hop on the Spanish high-speed train, you can experience the magic of Christmas in several Spanish cities in one […]
MURCIA
Murcia is the 10th largest region in Spain by population, which is 1,569,706 (2024)
Area: 11.314 Km2
Capital: Murcia
Culture and gastronomy: 12 experiences in Murcia
Murcia is an overlooked city and region nestled between the far more visited Andalusia to the south and Valencia to the north. That is a shame, because exciting architecture, history, and gastronomic experiences await in Murcia.
VALENCIA
Valencia is the 4th largest region in Spain in terms of population which is 5,319,448 (2024)
Area: 23.255 Km2
Capital: Valencia
Recipe: Spanish gazpacho manchego
Gazpacho manchego is a classic Spanish stew. The chefs at Valencia’s new up-and-coming restaurant Cocleque have reinterpreted the dish with quail, chicken liver and mushrooms. Here is Cocleque’s recipe.
7 art exhibitions in Spain worth traveling for in 2026
A wealth of acclaimed artists are showcased in paintings, sculptures, photography and installation art. The Spanish art scene is filled with exciting exhibitions in 2026 that I can’t wait to see.
Guide to Valencia: Culture, Mediterranean vibe and hip city vibe
Valencia is a wonderful mix of exciting architecture, art, green spaces and great food. Here you’ll find vibrant city life and relaxation on long stretches of sandy beaches.
Guide to El Cabanyal Valencia: Charming and cool fishing neighborhood
Colorful tiled facades, great tapas bars, art and its own beach. Valencia’s former fishing district is now a vibrant neighborhood where local traditions meet hip creativity.
Agua de Valencia recipe: Delicious drink with cava and freshly squeezed oranges
Agua de Valencia is a lovely Spanish drink with cava for summer cosy moments and garden parties. The refreshing drink originates from Valencia and consists of sweet, fresh oranges, bubbly cava and a little kick of gin and vodka.
Ruzafa: A day in Valencia’s hippest neighbourhood
Unleash your inner bohemian in Valencia’s multicultural Ruzafa district, where artists, hipsters and freaks gather. Here you can soak up the local atmosphere in pavement cafés and restaurants, shop for vintage finds and contemporary design and view art.
The hidden side of Benidorm: Escape the tourist traps and enjoy an active holiday in nature
Spain’s Manhattan is best known for mass tourism. However, you can easily avoid the tourists and enjoy a long weekend to nurture your body and soul in nature and silence.
9 sustainable experiences in Valencia
Sustainable natural, cultural and gastronomic experiences await in Valencia and its surroundings. Named European Green Capital in 2024, the city has a special ability to connect tradition with a green future.
Hop on the train for christmas getaway in the spanish cities
Go Christmas shopping in Barcelona, designer Christmas markets in Madrid, taste Valencia’s sweet Christmas treats, go ice skating in Zaragoza, immerse yourself in the Christmas gospel in Seville and see Málaga’s famous Christmas decorations. If you hop on the Spanish high-speed train, you can experience the magic of Christmas in several Spanish cities in one […]
Europe’s largest salt lake is pink and located in Torrevieja
Located in the Las Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park, Torrevieja’s pink salt lake is not only a beautiful sight but also of great importance to the city. For generations, the pink lake has shaped the lives of Torrevieja’s inhabitants, nature and wine.