We use cookies. Privacy Policy
Tapas, sangria, flamenco, Gaudí, and a nightlife that starts when the rest of Europe goes to bed.
Spain is Europe's best-value major country for backpackers — Madrid and Barcelona rival any city on earth, San Sebastián has the world's best food per square metre, and the Camino de Santiago is a life-changing walk that costs almost nothing.
Each region has a completely different character. Here is what to expect.
The finest art museums in the world in a three-museum triangle: the Prado (Velazquez, Goya, Rubens), the Reina Sofia (Guernica, Miro, Dali), and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. Madrid's tapas culture and nightlife (starting at midnight, peak at 3am) are genuinely excellent.
Gaudi's city — the Sagrada Familia (book months ahead), Park Guell, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila are extraordinary. The Barri Gotic and El Born are the best walking neighbourhoods.
The capital of Andalucia — the Real Alcazar (UNESCO Moorish palace), the Cathedral (Columbus is buried here), and a tapas culture that is even better than Madrid's (food in Seville is traditionally free with each drink ordered). The Feria de Abril is the greatest street party in Spain.
The food capital of Europe — more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world, a pintxos (Basque tapas) bar culture that is extraordinary, and La Concha beach (consistently voted Europe's finest urban beach).
Spain varies by region.
Madrid and Barcelona £40-65 per day.
Andalucia and smaller cities much cheaper.
Tapas in a local bar £1.50-4 per dish.
Menu del dia (three-course lunch with wine) £10-14.
Spain's water crisis is severe and worsening in Andalucia, Madrid and the Mediterranean coast — be conscious of water use. The Camino de Santiago walking routes are Spain's most sustainable tourism. Barcelona's overtourism is approaching crisis point — visit in November-February and stay in Eixample or Gracia rather than the Gothic Quarter.
Tell us where you want to go and your budget — we'll build a personalised quote with routes, hostels, and transport sorted.
SE Asia, South America, Europe, Africa, Central Asia and beyond.