Spain Travel Guide

Places to visit in Spain

Spain’s regions each have a distinct personality shaped by geography, history and local traditions. Below are some of the most beautiful places in Spain and what makes them unique.

Top things to do in Spain

Here are 10 of the leading Spain tourist attractions and experiences. Many are included within Newmarket Holidays’ escorted tours; others may be enjoyed during leisure time.

1. Discover the royal history & art of Madrid

Visit the Museo del Prado and admire masterpieces from Velázquez and Goya. Relax in El Retiro Park after a museum morning. Experience the lively tapas bars and rooftop views of the Spanish capital.

Time needed: Half day to full day.
Accessibility: Major museums, parks and central areas are largely step-free and wheelchair accessible. Some historic streets and tapas bars may be more compact or crowded.

Included on: Madrid, Toledo and Salamanca

2. Tour the Moorish legacy at the Alhambra Palace & Granada

Walk through the palaces, courtyards and gardens of the fortress-palace. Explore Granada’s Albaicín district with its white-washed houses and skyline views. Feel the Sierra Nevada in the backdrop of this historic city.

Time needed: Half to full day.
Accessibility: The Alhambra has step-free routes and adapted access, though distances are long. The Albaicín features steep, cobbled streets and is less suitable for limited mobility.

Included on: Seville, Granada and Classic Spain

3. Immerse in the culture of Seville & Andalusian Spain

Visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville royal palace and its Moorish gardens. Enjoy a flamenco show in the Triana or Santa Cruz quarter. Wander the orange-tree-lined streets and visit the gothic cathedral.

Time needed: Full day.
Accessibility: Seville’s main attractions are generally accessible, with flat walking routes in the historic centre. Some older quarters have narrow streets and uneven paving.

Included on: The Majestic Cities of Andalucia - Premier Collection

4. Cruise Spain’s coast & relax on fine Mediterranean beaches

Visit beautiful beaches in Marbella. Combine beach time with local seafood lunches and scenic coastal walks. Stay in accommodation with easy access to the water or a pool.

Time needed: Half to full day, or free leisure time built into a touring itinerary. Check individual tours.

Accessibility: Many popular beaches and promenades offer level access, with adapted facilities available in some resort areas. Sand access may be limited without assistance.

Included on: Seville, Granada & Classic Spain with Marbella Beach Extension

5. Discover the dramatic Andalusian city of Ronda

Explore the mountaintop city split by the El Tajo gorge and take in panoramic views from the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. Wander the historic old town, bullring and whitewashed streets. A memorable stop that showcases Andalusia’s rugged landscapes and Moorish heritage.

Time needed: Half day (around 3–4 hours).
Accessibility: Viewpoints and main areas are accessible, but the old town includes uneven streets, slopes and steps which may be challenging for limited mobility.

Included on: The Majestic Cities of Andalucia - Premier Collection

6. Journey through Spain’s historic towns (Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca)

Walk the UNESCO-listed old towns, cathedrals and Roman aqueducts. Enjoy medieval architecture, local craft shops and authentic regional cuisine. Best done as part of a guided tour to maximise context and minimise travel stress.

Time needed: Half to full day per town.
Accessibility: Historic centres often involve hills, steps and cobbled streets. Key landmarks are accessible, but walking can be demanding in places like Toledo.

Included on: Madrid, Toledo and Salamanca

7. Follow pilgrims’ footsteps in Santiago de Compostela & León

Visit Santiago de Compostela, the legendary endpoint of the Camino de Santiago. Admire its grand cathedral and atmospheric old quarter.
Explore León’s historic centre, known for its Gothic cathedral and Roman roots. Offers deep cultural insight into Spain’s religious and medieval history.

Time needed: One full day across both cities, or approximately half a day per destination.
Accessibility: Main squares and cathedrals are largely accessible, though some older streets are uneven. Cathedral interiors may include limited steps.

8. Experience scenic mountain & rail adventures

Ride historic or scenic railways through the Pyrenees or other mountainous regions. Hike or stroll in lesser-known natural parks away from the crowds. Balance city intensity with restful mountain air and slower-paced exploration.

Time needed: Varies from a half day scenic journey to a full day excursion.

Accessibility: Train travel is generally accessible, though access to viewpoints and walking paths may vary depending on terrain.

Included on: Little Trains of the Pyrenees

9. Stay in a historic “parador” hotel and travel at a gentler pace

Appreciate the concept of staying in iconic paradors - converted castles, monasteries, historic inns. Combine journeying with quality rest and cultural ambiance. Ideal for travellers seeking comfort, heritage and a slower rhythm.

Time needed: Time varies - check individual tours for more information.
Accessibility: Accessibility varies by property. Many paradors offer adapted rooms and lifts, though historic layouts may include steps and long corridors.

Included on: Historic Paradores of Hidden Spain

10. Delve into Spain’s food & drink culture region by region

Share tapas in Andalusia or try pintxos in the Basque region. Visit a local food market or join a tasting/tour experience. Pair meals with a regional wine or sangria and soak in the atmosphere of a local dining scene.

Time needed: Flexible - from a short tasting experience to an evening or free-time activity.

Accessibility: Markets and restaurants vary; many modern venues are accessible, while traditional bars may be small, busy or step-access only.

Getting around Spain

Spain’s infrastructure is modern and efficient.

• Major UK airports connect directly to Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga and Seville.
• The high-speed AVE train links Madrid with Seville, Barcelona and Valencia.
• Metro systems in major cities are reliable and largely accessible.
• Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available.
• Many central stations offer step-free access, though older streets may be uneven.

Escorted tours remove the need to coordinate transfers, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Accessibility & comfort in Spain

Spain’s major attractions increasingly provide step-free routes and accessible facilities. Historic districts may include cobbled streets and inclines, but planning ahead makes travel manageable.

Staying in historic Paradores offers comfort in character-filled settings. Learn more about why you should stay in a Parador hotel when you visit Spain.

With guided support, local insight and pre-arranged logistics, you travel with confidence.