Planning your first trip to Spain? You’re in for a real treat. This country has it all: bustling cities, laid-back coastal towns, incredible food and more history and culture than you could ever cram into one holiday! From tapas bars tucked down cobblestone alleys to Moorish palaces perched on hillsides, Spain offers experiences you won’t forget anytime soon.
To help you get started, here are five standout destinations perfect for first-time visitors. Whether you’re into beaches, architecture or just soaking up that famously easygoing Spanish lifestyle, there’s something here for every kind of traveller.
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Barcelona: a creative, coastal city with iconic architecture
Barcelona is an ideal first stop. It’s got just the right mix of cultural attractions, beachy relaxation and a lively street scene. The city is best known for Antoni Gaudí’s unique architecture, like the eye-catching Sagrada Família and the mosaics in Park Güell, but it’s also full of buzzing neighbourhoods worth exploring.
Don’t miss the Gothic Quarter for atmospheric lanes and hidden tapas bars. Head to Barceloneta Beach when you need a break from sightseeing, or spend a lazy afternoon wandering through the art-filled streets of El Born.
Barcelona is also very walkable, with great public transport, making it easy to get around and soak up the local vibes without feeling rushed. I also wrote previously an article on what to do in Barcelona you can read if you’d like.
Granada: history, views and andalusian charm
Tucked up against the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada offers a blend of dramatic landscapes and fascinating history. Its crown jewel is the Alhambra, a hilltop palace and fortress complex that’s one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Book tickets in advance, because it’s incredibly popular (and for good reason!)
Granada feels quieter and more compact than Barcelona, with a slower pace that makes it easy to explore. You’ll find a mix of Moorish and Spanish influence in the food, architecture and street layout, particularly in the Albaicín neighbourhood, with its narrow, winding lanes and great views of the Alhambra.
For a stress-free way to see the highlights and hidden gems, consider booking one of the luxury Spain tours that cover Granada and the wider Andalusia region. These expert-led tours take you on a journey through the most beautiful areas of Granada, as well as providing the opportunity to explore other regions in Southern Spain.
Marbella: a glamorous coastal getaway
If you’re looking for a place to unwind in style, Marbella on the Costa del Sol is a solid choice. It combines laid-back beach days with a touch of luxury; think scenic coastal walks, upscale dining and boutique shopping.
In the heart of Marbella, the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is charming and full of personality. It’s a great place to slow down, sip coffee in quiet squares, and enjoy some traditional Andalusian food.
Just a few minutes away, Puerto Banús brings a different energy. Known for its luxury yachts, designer stores, and lively nightlife, this marina town is ideal if you’re looking for a little glamour on your trip.
Many travellers choose luxury villas in Puerto Banús as their base. They offer more space, privacy and comfort than hotels, plus you’re close to both the beach and the buzz. It’s a great option for couples, groups or families who want a blend of relaxation and convenience.
Valencia: beaches, culture and a more relaxed vibe
Valencia often flies under the radar, but it’s a fantastic city for first-time visitors, especially if you want a mix of modern culture and seaside relaxation without the crowds of Barcelona or Madrid.
The City of Arts and Sciences is a standout attraction: a striking collection of modern buildings that house everything from an opera hall to an aquarium. But Valencia also has a charming Old Town, full of historic buildings, lively markets and authentic tapas spots.
The city sits right on the Mediterranean, with a long stretch of sandy beach just a short tram ride from the centre. It’s also the birthplace of paella, so don’t leave without trying the original version – made with rabbit, chicken and green beans!
Valencia is ideal if you want the energy of a city with room to breathe. It’s walkable, easy-going, and full of local flavour. There are also plenty of very beautiful villages around Valencia to visit, like Port Saplaya.
Seville: flamenco, orange trees and historic streets
Seville delivers the kind of atmosphere you probably picture when you think of Spain – narrow streets filled with music, orange trees in bloom and historic buildings at every turn.
This is the place to see flamenco in its birthplace. Look for smaller, more intimate venues in the Triana district for a truly moving experience. You’ll also want to visit the Seville Cathedral (home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb), the Royal Alcázar, and Plaza de España, all beautiful, photogenic landmarks.
The pace in Seville is pleasantly slow. It’s the kind of city where you’ll want to linger over long lunches, stroll along the river in the evenings and explore without an itinerary. If you’re visiting in summer, be prepared for heat – it’s one of the hottest cities in Europe.
Making the most of your first trip to Spain
Spain is a country that encourages you to take your time, to enjoy a long lunch, wander aimlessly through neighbourhoods and soak up each moment. These five destinations offer a great balance of what Spain does best: beaches, food, history, art and a way of life that’s both relaxed and full of energy.
From the stylish streets of Barcelona to the traditional charm of Seville, and from the beaches of Marbella to the surprising delights of Valencia, you’ll leave with memories that stick. And like many first-time visitors, you might already be planning your return before you’ve even unpacked.
