Transportation between the airport and Barcelona

R2 train

The station can be reached on foot from Terminal 2. From the arrival terminal, just follow the train sign.

In the city center, you can transfer to the metro at Sants, Passeig de Gracia, and Clot stations.

The Hola Barcelona Travel Card, T-casual, and Barcelona Card are all valid for this train. It’s worth buying one of these at the airport or online, as the train ride will be free.

All tickets can be purchased from the vending machines at the train station. The city is divided into zones, with the airport in Zone 4.

Price: €4.90

The schedule can be found here!

Aerobus

Bus A1 runs from Terminal 1, and A2 from Terminal 2 to Placa de Catalunya stop. Both stop at Placa Espanya.

Tickets can be purchased at the Aerobus stop.

Price: €7.25 one-way, €12.25 return

Schedule and online ticket purchase can be found here!

Bus 46

Runs between Plaza Espanya and the airport, stopping at both T1 and T2 terminals.

T-casual and Hola Barcelona Travel Card are valid!

L9S metro

Stops at both Terminal 1 and 2, but doesn’t go to the city center. To reach the city center, transfer to the L1 metro at Torrassa station.

Requires a „Billet aeroport” ticket and is valid for transfers to other metro lines. Price: €5.70

T-casual is not valid, but Hola Barcelona Travel Card is.

The schedule can be found here!

Night bus (NitBus)

At night, NitBus runs between the airport and Placa de Catalunya, stopping at Placa Universitat and Placa Espanya.

Bus N17 runs to Terminal 1. Bus N18 serves both Terminal 1 and 2.

T-casual is valid, but Hola Barcelona Travel Card and Barcelona Card are not.

The schedule can be found here!

Barcelona city public transportation

Barcelona’s transportation is excellent, with 9 metro lines crisscrossing the city with numerous stops. There are several ticket options to choose from.

The city and its agglomeration are divided into six zones, but this isn’t relevant for tourists. All famous attractions are in Zone 1.

Travel is free for children under 4 years old!

Single ticket

Valid for only one trip without interruption. It’s really only worth it if you use the metro (except for metro line 9 to the airport) or bus only once a day.

Price: €2.65

Bus ticket

A single-trip ticket that can be purchased on the bus with a contactless bank card. This option is only available on TMB-operated buses!

Price: €2.65

T-casual

Can be used for 10 trips, available for all zones. Can only be used by one person!

For the single-zone ticket, you have 75 minutes between the first and last validation if you change lines or mode of transport. This time increases by 15 minutes per zone. So if you buy a six-zone ticket, it’s valid for 150 minutes.

Not valid for the L9 metro when accessing the airport!

Price for 1 zone: €12.55

T-familiar

Valid for 8 trips within 30 consecutive days from the first validation. Can be used by multiple people!

Available for all zones. Similar to T-casual, for the single-zone ticket, you have 75 minutes between the first and last validation if you change lines or mode of transport. This time increases by 15 minutes per zone.

Not valid for the L9 metro when accessing the airport!

Price for 1 zonet: €11.05

Day tickets

Multi-day passes are called Hola Barcelona Travel Card.

Available for 2 (48 hours), 3 (72 hours), 4 (96 hours), 5 (120 hours) days. Valid until the end of the time period in parentheses from the time of validation!

Valid for: metro (including L9S airport line), Rodalies de Catalunya train in zone 1, R2 train between airport and city center, FGC train in zone 1, TMB buses, Montjuïc funicular, tram.

Not valid for night buses and the Montjuic cable car!

Prices:

• 2 days: €18.10
• 3 days: €26.30
• 4 days: €34.40
• 5 days: €42.10

You can buy it online 10% cheaper (pick up at Placa de Catalunya tourist office or airport tourist information points).

All information can be found here!

You can find a route planner here!

More articles about Barcelona

Barcelona attractions

Three days in Barcelona

Sagrada Família – The unique artistic wonder

A Barcelona public transport: airport, ticket types, prices (2025) bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

In part 1, I presented general information and museums, and in part 2, public buildings and parks!

Casa Vicens

I came here first, which gets less attention but deserves more. It’s located in a narrow side street, interesting how this colorful building stands among regular houses.

It consists of only two floors and a few rooms, but its interiors and balconies somehow increase its value. There’s a café in the courtyard, worth spending some time there.

With the entrance ticket, you get a 3 euro coupon that can be used in the local gift shop. Buying online is cheaper, but we can easily buy tickets on-site as well.

Casa Battló

One of Gaudí’s most famous residential buildings, always crowded whenever we go. Despite this, I was able to book online easily for the 2:30 PM slot at 2:22 PM. Plus, the ticket is more expensive on-site.

Visitors are admitted in stages to avoid crowding inside. At the entrance, they give you an audio guide, and in the rooms, the appropriate text starts automatically (available in several languages, unfortunately not in Hungarian). We can stay inside for as long as we want.

I won’t write separately about the wonderful interiors because you have to see them in person. For me, perhaps the most beautiful part is going down, the chain section by the stairs. It’s incredible how creative Gaudí was!

And at the end comes the Gaudí Cube. Visitors are led into a room where we can watch a few minutes of 3D presentation. This must be experienced, it’s such a great experience!

What also needs to be highlighted is that in the evening, every half hour, they project a few minutes of colorful show on the building facade. You must watch it once, it’s very spectacular.

Casa Milá

I went after Casa Batlló, bought the ticket online a few days in advance. There are fewer people here and it doesn’t give as much of an experience after Batlló. Although I don’t mean to say it’s not worth coming!

Here too we get an audio guide, which we start based on room numbers. The building can be freely explored, and since there’s no crowd, you can easily spend time everywhere.

Here, the rooftop terrace is what makes the entrance fee most worthwhile. We can see various shapes from the chimneys, and there’s even a great view of the Sagrada Família.

Palau Güell

It’s at the beginning of a side street off La Rambla, easily incorporated into any program. And it’s not necessary to buy the ticket in advance, I bought it on-site.

Similar to Casa Batlló, this also impressed me. Especially the main hall, where everyone stood for several minutes and stared at the tall, domed room. And let’s look above our heads too, because the ceiling is wonderful in several rooms: the carvings and decorations are magnificent.

The roof, like other Gaudí buildings, is ornate and we can see various shapes.

Güell Park

It was the last sight on the last day, a walk in the park was just right as a cool-down.

I bought a timed ticket here (2:30 PM), but they let me in easily 10 minutes before. Many people only look at the two houses at the entrance level and the lizard stairs, maybe the viewpoint above. But the park is huge, you can walk several kilometers and see special structures everywhere.

I went all the way to the top, where there’s a great view from the Casa Trias building. It’s worth spending a few hours in the park and wandering around.

Torres Bellesguard

Perhaps this is the least known Gaudí building, as it’s on the edge of the city, close to CosmoCaixa. However, these two together are definitely worth the time.

There’s a guided tour of the building every 30 minutes, you can only visit with a guide. Of course, I arrived at 10:35, so I had to wait. The park part is, to put it mildly, not impressive, but the interior of the building and the rooftop terrace make up for it.

We get an audio guide, which we start at specific locations, so the guide is mostly just a supervisor. 🙂

Sagrada Família

And I saved the most beautiful for last. Actually, it was my second to last sight: I deliberately bought a ticket for a nice weather day to ensure the view from the tower would be perfect.

There’s always a huge crowd, and at the entrance, there’s an airport-like security check. After that, we can go anywhere inside and stay as long as we want. It’s magnificent from the outside, but the inside! I spent a lot of time inside, even sat on a bench for about 15 minutes to enjoy the view.

There’s a regular ticket, which is only for the church, and there’s a ticket that includes a visit to one of the towers. We can choose between two towers: Nativity and Passion. I was in the former, fortunately there was a smaller queue there. Because you can go up with a small elevator for a few people, I waited about 20 minutes, and in an extremely drafty place. It’s not a bad idea to bring a sweater, quite a few people were shivering while queuing.

After getting off the elevator, you have to go down individually, meanwhile you can take your time and stare at the church’s decorations and the view through the openings.

It’s worth buying tickets at least a week in advance because there are hardly any free slots in the days before. You need to choose separate times for entering the church and the tower.

Sagrada Família in TikTok video

A Three days in Barcelona – part 3: Gaudí’s buildings bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

In part 1, I provided general information and presented the main museums, and in part 3, I will write about Gaudí’s works!

Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau

The importance of this former hospital lies not in its history, but in its buildings. The main building visible from the street is already outstanding, but the inner courtyard reveals its true face.

We can learn about the hospital’s past, but it’s the domes and roof sections of the buildings that are a must-see. They are so ornate, as if covered with colorful tiles. I spent about an hour here. It’s worth sitting on a bench and admiring the buildings.

Arc de Triomf

The promenade leading to Ciudadela Park starts here; it’s a great structure for photography. It’s definitely worth starting your walk here and enjoying the screeching of parrots. 🙂

Ciutadella Park

Barcelona’s „City Park” where the Catalan Parliament building can also be seen.

The center of the green area is a large fountain, with a beautiful structure and an equestrian statue above it. There’s also a lake where you can go boating.

If we go further, we reach a garden, and on its left side, we see the Parliament. The southern part of the park belongs to the zoo, and beyond that is the beach.

Old Town

The old town area is La Rambla and its surroundings, all the way to Ciutadella Park, where you can find alleys and streets with a good atmosphere.

On the side of the cathedral, there’s a charming Gothic arch, the El Pont del Bisbe. Although it’s just a small part connecting two buildings, it’s worth walking to see it.

I should also mention the columns remaining from Roman rule, found in a small courtyard called Temple d’August. It’s really interesting how three columns just stand there on their own.

Below, I highlight several notable sights separately.

Cathedral

This wonderful church is the center of the old town, always crowded. It’s no wonder, as even its exterior is impressive. I especially liked its ornate portal.

Standing in front, you can buy tickets on the left side. Unfortunately, I didn’t go inside because I didn’t have much time, but if it’s as beautiful inside as it is outside, it’s definitely worth visiting!

Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

We can enter this other beautiful church in the old town for free. I took advantage of this, sitting down one evening for some contemplation.

The interior is much more beautiful than the exterior: the huge ceiling height and beautiful colors create a very good overall impression.

It’s definitely worth popping in here for at least a few minutes!

Plaça de Sant Jaume

I also walked to this square a few minutes from the cathedral, where two impressive buildings stand. One of these is the city hall, the other is the Palau de la Generalitat, the seat of the Catalan government. It’s an atmospheric square, let’s stop by during our old town walk!

La Rambla

I don’t think I need to go into much detail about this. Barcelona’s main pedestrian street, with lots of vendors and people.

Strangely, it doesn’t offer anything extra for me. It’s a straight street lined with trees, but nothing fascinating beyond that. Regardless, of course, you should definitely walk along it once!

Plaça Reial

Along La Rambla, this is an iconic square with a beautiful fountain in the center.

It’s a very atmospheric, enclosed square with tall palm trees, restaurants, and cafes. This is more of a sight to see than La Rambla.

Mercado de La Boqueria

You can’t leave Barcelona without popping into a market. La Boqueria is the most touristy market, so it’s always crowded.

You see almost only tourists here, no wonder it’s along La Rambla. That’s why it’s not so authentic; I myself only visited once, even though I’ve been to the city three times.

If you want to see a truly local market, I recommend Mercat de Sant Antoni. There are fewer people, and many locals shop there.

Columbus Monument (Monument a Colom)

At the end of La Rambla is the tall statue of the famous explorer. This closes off the pedestrian street at the southern end.

The statue also functions as a viewpoint. I didn’t go up, as there are many viewpoints in the city and there are much better ones.

Poble Espanyol

A few minutes’ walk from the National Museum of Catalonia is this open-air museum, where we can see replicas of many Spanish buildings.

I visited here on a Tuesday early afternoon, there were quite few people. It actually consists of a few streets and a large square, but there are indeed many beautiful buildings. There are also cafes and restaurants, it’s a very atmospheric and peaceful place for a little rest.

It wasn’t on the list of must-do programs, but I absolutely didn’t regret visiting here. It’s worth taking a close look at the buildings to see which original they’re replicating.

Olympic Stadium

From Poble Espanyol towards the hilltop is the stadium, which is currently the home of FC Barcelona due to the renovation of Camp Nou. Otherwise, it was one of the main venues of the 1992 Olympics.

Open gates welcome you, part of the stadium is freely accessible. There’s also a cafe, although the stadium is in quite a run-down state, so I skipped having coffee here…

Barceloneta

Barcelona’s beach area, which for me is one of the best urban beaches. Wide sandy area with beautiful panorama, many cafes, and many people resting and doing sports.

It’s about 2 km long section, bordered by a palm-lined promenade, no wonder it’s a popular part of the city. I also walked along it slowly, enjoying the sunshine.

Plaça d’Espanya

One of the city’s important junctions, from where we can also see the National Museum of Catalonia. The square is actually a roundabout, with an impressive statue in the middle.

What many people don’t know is that there’s also a great viewpoint here. On the northern part of the square, you can see a former arena that is now a shopping center (Arenas de Barcelona). Its roof is an excellent open viewpoint with a 360-degree panorama, so we can see all parts of the city. From the outside, we can go straight up with an elevator, but this is paid. Inside the mall, the escalator and elevator are free.

It’s worth walking from the square to the National Museum, it’s about a five-minute walk.

A Three days in Barcelona – part 2: public spaces, main buildings bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

Let me state right away: even three full days weren’t enough, despite exploring the city all day. Not because Barcelona covers a large area (we only need to travel more to a few sights), but because there are so many buildings and attractions.

In part 2, I’ll write about public buildings and places, and in part 3 about Gaudí’s works!

Barcelona Card

This card is the best for those who use public transport and want to visit several museums. You can save a lot of euros with it; I saved 85 euros.

Entry is free to more than 20 museums (including the Picasso Museum), and discounted to many others. Additionally, public transport is free, including the train and metro between the airport and the city center.

We can buy it online in advance, making it even cheaper. You need to present the received receipt at the pickup point, where you get two cards: a Hola Barcelona Travel Card and a Barcelona Card. The former is for public transport, the latter for museums. Both are valid from the first use.

There are cards valid for 72, 96, and 120 hours, with discounted prices for ages 4-12. You can buy it here and check where we can use and pick up the cards.

I picked mine up at the airport tourist desk, it took just a minute. It’s located in the arrival hall, marked with a Turisme de Barcelona sign.

Even in free museums, you need to ask for a ticket and mention that you have a Barcelona Card. You need to touch the card to a sensor and get a 0 euro ticket before entering. (They ask which country you’re from everywhere, they need it for statistics.)

Transportation

Wizz Air and Ryanair flights arrive at Terminal T2, from where you can get to the city by train or metro. The stops are next to each other, follow the train pictogram from the airport hall, it’s easily reachable with a few minutes walk.

I took the R2 train, which stops at several places: Sants, Passeig del Grácia (this is the direct city center, 30 minutes journey), El Clot. You can transfer to the metro at each of these places. The L9 metro also has a stop here, right next to the train station.

Otherwise, transportation in Barcelona is extremely simple. There are more than 10 metro lines and several railway lines, with plenty of transfer options. I dare say it’s one of the best-networked cities in the world.

However, be prepared that metro transfers sometimes require minutes of walking and climbing stairs multiple times. The many transfers are like a little workout. 🙂

It’s worth buying the aforementioned Hola Barcelona Travel Card, which can be used for the airport train, metros, buses (except those marked N), and the Montjuic funicular. (Available in 48, 72, 96, and 120-hour formats).

Museums

Picasso Museum

If you want to visit only one or two museums, this should definitely be one of them! I don’t think Picasso’s name needs much introduction.

You can see his works in several rooms: not only the well-known, characteristic avant-garde creations but also ceramics, for example. When I was there, we could also see Joan Miró’s works (if I remember correctly, they have a joint exhibition for a few months).

I asked for a ticket on-site, and you can enter the museum right away. Entry is free with the Barcelona Card.

Casa Amatller

Located right next to Casa Batlló, but the „neighbor” distracts attention from this house. However, it’s worth visiting this one too.

It can only be visited with a guide; you can buy tickets at the reception. We get an audio guide to hear information about the rooms in a chosen language. They pay great attention to the cleanliness of the house; you need to put on shoe covers before entering.

The rooms, halls, and the artifacts in them are very beautiful. Amatller was a wealthy chocolate manufacturer, and the frescoes, carvings, paintings, various objects all attest to this. The ceiling is especially noteworthy, with beautiful patterns in several places.

Entry is discounted with the Barcelona Card.

Catalan National Museum (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya)

An iconic building of Barcelona, with a magnificent view from the front. We can see Mount Tibidabo opposite, and the two red towers of Torres Venecianes in the foreground.

But the interior of the museum is also beautiful; sometimes I felt like I was in a converted church. The central space is a huge domed hall where a monumental organ can be seen.

Of course, we can see many Catalan creations (paintings, sculptures, mosaics, frescoes, posters, etc.), and you can spend hours here if you want to thoroughly view the exhibition.

Entry is free with the Barcelona Card.

CosmoCaixa

It’s located a bit outside the city center: I traveled from Plaça Catalunya to the end station of metro L7, from there it was about a 7-8 minute walk (but there’s also a bus, number 196). It’s a perfect program especially for children.

It’s a multi-story building with a garden area, where many branches of science are presented interactively: earth history, astronomy, physics, etc.

I found it interesting too, but as I mentioned, it’s mainly designed for children. There were several school classes there, and as I saw, every child really enjoyed it. Interactivity is the key to all this…

Entry is free with the Barcelona Card.

Frederic Marès Museum

For me, this was one of the biggest positive surprises. If I hadn’t had a Barcelona Card (with which entry is free), I probably wouldn’t have gone in…

It’s located next to the cathedral, with the entrance opening from a small courtyard. It has several floors, and if you want to thoroughly explore it, plan for a few hours because there are lots of beautiful sights.

The creations are arranged thematically: sculptures, frescoes, religious objects, fans, ceramics, and much more.

Joan Miró Museum (Fundació Joan Miró)

This modern art museum is on Montjuic hill, not far from the Olympic Stadium. Entry is free with the Barcelona Card. The 150 bus starting from Plaça Espanya has a stop nearby (this bus takes you up to the castle at the top of Montjuic).

Its namesake is the painter born in the city, whose creations greatly resemble Picasso’s. These few works also confirm this:

Chocolate Museum (Museu de la Xocolata)

Near Ciutadella Park, we find the chocolate museum, which is a separate room of a café.

You need to ask for the ticket at the counter, which is a piece of chocolate. We can enter the museum with the QR code on the packaging. After entering, we can eat it; it’s not needed to exit.

In reality, it can be explored in 10-15 minutes: chocolate creations in display cases, tools used for making chocolate, and a video about chocolate making. It’s a great experience especially for kids, although I also clicked my tongue at some creations.

Entry is free with the Barcelona Card.

Museum of Design (Museu del Disseny de Barcelona)

There’s an exhibition of Spanish applied arts creations on several floors. It’s not a popular museum; there were maybe three people including me. It’s located at the Glòries metro stop on the L1 line.

I’m not saying it’s not worth coming here, but if you only want to see a few museums, it can be skipped. However, the view is very beautiful in the evening, as the red-blue Torre Glòries rises right next to it. You can take good pictures.

Entry is free with the Barcelona Card.

What Can Be Skipped

I have to mention that there are a few museums where I would have cried if I had to pay for entry. All the listed museums are free with the Barcelona Card.

CCCB and MACBA are located next to each other. These are modern contemporary art museums where we can see „interesting” creations. Maybe the problem is with me, but somehow I couldn’t appreciate most of it. The best was a twig that I couldn’t interpret no matter how I looked at it.

The Egyptian Museum (Museu Egipci de Barcelona) near Casa Batlló is a good exhibition, but it’s quite small compared to the 12 euro entry fee. There are three small rooms (basement, ground floor, first floor), and it can actually be explored in a quarter of an hour.

El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria is next to Ciutadella Park, where the former ruins of the city are. The exhibition is in a large covered hall, actually showing former walls and foundations. Nothing special.

The Ethnological Museum (Museu Etnològic i de Cultures del Món) is next to the Catalan National Museum. As the name suggests, it presents local culture and folklore. I’m not saying you should avoid it, but it might not be worth coming just for this.

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Sagrada Família – The unique artistic wonder

A Three days in Barcelona – part 1: general information and museums bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

The most beautiful churches in the world

Sagrada Família (Barcelona)

For me, this is the most beautiful church in the world. It’s a must-see attraction from the inside for anyone visiting Barcelona!

It was designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who played a role in many of the city’s buildings. Construction began in 1882 and is progressing extremely slowly due to the complexity of the plans. Work is still ongoing, and when completed, it will be the largest basilica in the world.

Its length from the apse to the northern end is 90 meters and it’s 45 meters wide. Its interior height reaches 75 meters. Features of several styles can be found. The architects before Gaudí designed a neo-Catalan building, which is a type of neo-Gothic style. Gaudí himself further developed it in the spirit of modernism.

Barcelona attractions

St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican)

The largest and most significant church of the Roman Catholic Church, and also the seat of the papacy. The basilica is one of the holiest sites in Christianity and attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually.

The original church was built around 324 during the reign of Emperor Constantine I, above the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle. Construction of the current basilica began in 1506 under Pope Julius II and was completed in 1626 under Pope Urban VIII. Many famous Renaissance and Baroque artists and architects participated in the construction, including Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

St. Peter’s Square is located in front of the basilica, designed by Bernini. The square is surrounded by two semicircular colonnades. Inside, there are numerous artistic creations, including Michelangelo’s Pietà.

Rome attractions

Seville Cathedral

One of Spain’s most significant and impressive buildings, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest church in the Christian world. The 15th-century cathedral was built on the site of a former Moorish mosque, some elements of which were incorporated into the new structure.

Its outstanding feature is the 104-meter-high Giralda tower. The cathedral’s bell tower was originally the minaret of the Moorish mosque. On top of it is a 4-meter-high bronze statue, the „Giraldillo”.

Seville attractions

St. Paul’s Cathedral (London)

The cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of London and an important symbol of English national identity.

The current cathedral is the fifth on the site; its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Construction of the new one began in 1675 based on Sir Christopher Wren’s designs and was completed in 1711.

The cathedral’s most famous feature is the dome. Inside, 30 meters high, is the Whispering Gallery. It’s famous for its special acoustics: a whisper along the wall can be clearly heard on the opposite side of the gallery.

Many famous personalities rest in the crypt, including Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Christopher Wren.

Wat Arun (Bangkok)

One of Bangkok’s most iconic and beautiful Buddhist temples is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the Royal Palace.

Its name means „Temple of Dawn”, referring to the sight of the first rays of the rising sun glinting off the temple’s decorations. Much of these come from Chinese porcelain plates and cups.

The central pagoda is a Khmer-style tower that symbolizes Mount Meru in Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. At its base are statues depicting mythological creatures and demons. We can climb to different levels of the tower via a steep staircase, offering a wonderful view.

Bangkok attractions, temples, markets

Milan Cathedral

The symbol of Milan is one of the masterpieces of Italian Gothic architecture.

Its construction lasted nearly six centuries, from 1386 until the end of the 19th century. The cathedral is the third-largest Catholic church in the world. From its roof, there’s a beautiful view of the city and the Alps on clear days.

Its exterior is decorated with more than 3,400 statues depicting saints, biblical figures, and mythological creatures. The roof of the church is crowned by 135 stone spires, the highest of which is the 108.5-meter main tower, topped by the famous „Madonnina” statue.

Milan attractions

Hagia Sophia (Istanbul)

One of the most outstanding works of Turkish architecture and a symbol of Istanbul.

Originally built as a Christian church in 537 during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was the largest church in the world for nearly a thousand years. Under Turkish rule, it was a mosque, then a museum, and since 2020, it has been functioning as a mosque again.

Its two distinctive features are the dome and the minarets. The nearly 56-meter-high dome has 40 windows. The mosque has four minarets that were added to the building during Ottoman rule. Their height and style differ slightly, reflecting the different times of their construction.

Istanbul attractions

Notre-Dame (Paris)

One of the most well-known among the numerous iconic buildings of the French capital.

The cathedral is an outstanding example of French Gothic architecture, particularly famous for its western facade, which features two monumental towers, rich sculptural decoration, and a large rose window.

Many people don’t know that Notre-Dame’s organ is a huge musical treasure. Many consider Notre-Dame’s 113-register, five-manual grand organ to be one of the best instruments in the world.

The reconstruction of the temple, which was severely damaged in the 2019 fire, is fortunately nearing its end, so it will soon reopen its doors to visitors.

Paris attractions

Golden Temple (India)

Officially named Harmandir Sahib, the holiest site of the Sikh religion is located in the Indian city of Amritsar.

It got its name from its upper level covered in gold, which was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century. The temple is located in the middle of an artificial lake, the Amrit Sarovar, accessed by a long marble bridge. The building’s four entrances symbolize that it’s open to people of all castes, religions, and nationalities.

Part of the complex is a huge community kitchen, the Langar, where free food is served daily to up to 100,000 pilgrims and visitors.

Best places in India

Cologne Cathedral

The construction of this Gothic cathedral lasted for several centuries, from 1248 to 1880. This resulted in a monumental church.

It’s Germany’s largest Gothic church and the world’s third-tallest cathedral, with twin towers reaching 157 meters high. Its interior is also impressive: it has five naves, and the vault of the main nave is 43 meters high.

The cathedral houses numerous artistic treasures, including the Shrine of the Three Kings, one of the most significant goldsmith works of the Middle Ages. The building has 10,000 square meters of stained glass windows, many of which are original, medieval creations. The western facade of the cathedral is particularly impressive, with its richly decorated portals and rose window.

Cologne attractions, museums

St. Patrick’s Cathedral (New York)

The Big Apple isn’t famous for its churches, but this one definitely stands out!

Located in the heart of Manhattan on Fifth Avenue, opposite the Rockefeller Center. The cathedral is impressive in its size: 123 meters long, 53 meters wide, and the towers reach 100 meters high. The building is made of white marble, creating a contrast with the surrounding skyscrapers.

The building contains 21 altars and 19 bells and can accommodate 2,200 people. It has been the site of many significant events, including the funeral service for President Kennedy’s brother, Robert F. Kennedy, in 1968.

Manhattan attractions

Sheikh Zayed Mosque (Abu Dhabi)

The most impressive building in the capital of the United Arab Emirates is named after the country’s first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The mosque is built of white Greek and Macedonian marble, decorated with gold, semi-precious stones, crystals, and ceramics. The main building is crowned by 82 domes, the largest of which is 85 meters high and 32.8 meters in diameter. It can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers at once.

The mosque’s courtyard is lined with 1,000 columns, each decorated with intricate floral mosaic patterns. Inside the building is the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, covering an area of 5,700 square meters and weighing 47 tons. A huge chandelier hangs in the main prayer hall, weighing 12 tons and decorated with Swarovski crystals.

Abu Dhabi attractions

Salt Lake Temple (Salt Lake City)

One of the most important buildings of the Mormon Church is located in the capital of Utah.

The temple was built in Neo-Romanesque style, with granite walls up to 2.7 meters thick. The building is 68 meters high and has six towers, the tallest of which is 64 meters, topped with a gilded statue of the Angel Moroni.

Its peculiarity is that – unlike many other religious buildings – only members of the Mormon Church who meet certain church requirements can enter. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth seeing as it’s an impressive sight from the outside as well.

Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo)

One of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples, which legend says was founded in 628.

The complex consists of several buildings, including the main hall, a five-story pagoda, and numerous smaller shrines. The main hall houses the temple’s holiest object, the Kannon statue, which is kept hidden from public view.

It’s the site of numerous festivals and celebrations, including the famous Sanja Matsuri in May. The temple is particularly spectacular in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom, and at night when the buildings are illuminated.

Tokyo attractions

A The 14 most beautiful churches in the world bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

The 15 most beautiful cities in the world

Bruges

This small Belgian city is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited! It’s no coincidence that a famous film describes it as a fairy tale.

Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Bruges is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and canal system. One of the best ways to explore the city is by boat, allowing you to see numerous historical buildings and charming bridges.

The historic center, with its impressive medieval buildings and the famous Belfry tower, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers many wonders.

Bruges attractions

Best museums in Bruges

Kyoto

One of Japan’s most magical cities, Kyoto is famous for its stunning temples, traditional teahouses, and well-preserved historic districts.

The city is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and hundreds of Shinto shrines. Among these, the Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, stands out with its gleaming gold-leaf temple set in the middle of a pond. Another notable temple is Kiyomizu-dera, which features a waterfall and breathtaking views.

Japanese gardens and nature play a significant role in Kyoto’s life, with zen gardens being particularly famous.

Kyoto attractions, weather

My trip in Kyoto

Paris

Of course, one of the world’s most famous cities cannot be left out. The French capital is also one of the most romantic places.

Paris is a popular tourist destination, which is no surprise since it is considered one of the world’s four major cities. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame are names known to everyone, but there are many more beautiful sights to explore.

Paris attractions

Best museums in Paris

A long weekend in Paris

Cape Town

The jewel of South Africa, Cape Town is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, nestled at the foot of a mountain along the coastline.

Table Mountain is one of the most iconic natural attractions in Cape Town. Visitors can reach the summit by cable car or on foot, enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

Another significant attraction is the V&A Waterfront, a beautiful harbor area with restaurants, shops, and hotels, home to Africa’s largest contemporary art museum.

Cape Town attractions, weather

Porto

From Portugal, I didn’t choose Lisbon, although it’s a city with a great atmosphere, but Porto appealed to me more.

The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with stunning sights and narrow cobblestone streets. The Ribeira district is particularly worth exploring, with many shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Another main tourist attraction in Porto is the port wine cellars, located across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s a great experience to sit down with a glass of wine and enjoy the view of the Dom Luís I Bridge and the surrounding area.

Porto attractions

Two-day trip to Porto

Queenstown

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Situated beautifully on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The city is famous for its thrilling jet boat rides on the Shotover River, racing through canyons. In the winter months, it becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding.

In addition to active adventures, it’s an excellent place for relaxation. The nearby wine regions, such as Gibbston Valley, are famous for their Pinot Noir wines.

Florence

The heart of Tuscany is known as the cradle of the Renaissance, and its architectural and artistic heritage make it one of the most beautiful cities.

Its symbol is the cathedral, renowned for its massive dome, intricate marble decorations, and impressive interiors, which are integral to Florence’s cityscape. We can admire this from Michelangelo Square, the best viewpoint.

Among its museums, the Uffizi Gallery stands out, showcasing works by Botticelli and Michelangelo. Additionally, the Palazzo Pitti should not be missed, as the palace and gardens reflect the power and taste of the Medici family.

Florence attractions

Best museums in Florence

San Francisco

The most charming city on the west coast of the USA, though I believe many would rank it first.

The Golden Gate Bridge is naturally its most famous landmark, offering stunning views of the city, the surrounding bay, and Alcatraz Island, which once housed America’s most notorious prison and now operates as a museum.

In this hilly city, be sure to try the iconic cable car, which connects downtown to the waterfront area, Fisherman’s Wharf. For a truly enjoyable ride, stand on the steps and hold onto the rail!

A must-see photo spot is Lombard Street, one of the world’s steepest and most winding streets, beautifully lined with landscaped gardens.

San Francisco attractions

USA West Coast trip – part 1: San Francisco

Prague

The capital of the Czech Republic boasts one of Europe’s most beautiful old town areas, filled with Gothic architecture.

Everyone knows the Charles Bridge, Prague’s iconic structure. The bridge is always bustling with local artists, musicians, and street vendors, making the walk a memorable experience.

Overlooking the city is the world’s largest castle complex, which includes St. Vitus Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. The view of the city from here is breathtaking.

And of course, a visit to a pub or brewery is a must! Czech beers are widely recognized for their quality, and you can sample them in many small pubs.

Prague attractions

Prague (beer) trip – Two and a half days in one of my favorite cities

Singapore

The city-state in Southeast Asia is a model of modernity, cleanliness, and innovation. The vibrant culture and futuristic architectural style create a fantastic atmosphere in Singapore.

The skyline is defined by the Marina Bay Sands building, with a stunning view from its rooftop observation deck and infinity pool.

It has become one of my favorite places; it’s a spectacular city in every aspect. Singapore places great emphasis on eco-conscious living, resulting in numerous green spaces.

Singapore attractions

Rome

The Eternal City is almost mandatory to include on this list! Italy’s capital offers a wealth of ancient monuments.

When we mention Rome, everyone thinks of the Colosseum. However, this is just one of many sights! Everywhere you turn, you’ll find a magnificent ancient attraction or a church, not to mention the Vatican!

Rome attractions

Rome in a day and a half

Vancouver

Located on the western coast of British Columbia, Canada, Vancouver is one of the most popular North American cities for both nature lovers and city dwellers. The city is famous for its mountainous backdrop and multicultural community.

Vancouver also places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, leading in green initiatives and technologies. Its goal is to become the world’s greenest city by 2050. Even today, it is considered one of the most livable places in the world.

Vancouver attractions, weather

Marrakesh

Nestled at the foot of the beautiful Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

One of Morocco’s iconic cities, it is also known as the Red City due to the distinctive terracotta color of its walls. Its center is Jemaa el-Fnaa square, home to one of Africa’s largest and most famous markets.

The city is also known for its historical landmarks, such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city and its symbol.

Marrakesh attractions

Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is often underrated on lists because it’s not a large city.

Yet, it remains a personal favorite! Besides its beautiful buildings, it has a unique atmosphere that can’t be described – you have to visit to feel it!

The old town best preserves its medieval character, especially along the famous Royal Mile, which stretches from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the castle. The street is filled with historical buildings, churches, and museums.

Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural life is driven by its year-round festivals, notably the Edinburgh Festival in August and the Fringe, the world’s largest international arts festival.

Edinburgh attractions

Budapest

Hungary’s capital isn’t on this list just because I live in this country. 🙂

Tourist data also shows that it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Just think of the castle, which alone holds numerous attractions. The view of the city and the Parliament is also fantastic!

Additionally, Budapest is famous for its baths. Many thermal baths await tourists, with the Széchenyi, Rudas, and Gellért baths standing out.

A The 15 most beautiful cities in the world bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

Spain’s second-largest city is situated on the Mediterranean coast, south of the Pyrenees and the French border. Its football team, FC Barcelona, is one of the most famous and popular clubs in the world.

Barcelona attractions

La Sagrada Familia

One of the most famous churches in the world, it is expected to be completed by 2026. In 2010, the Pope consecrated the Church of the Holy Family as a basilica.

Its interesting appearance is a true architectural masterpiece. It’s worth seeing even for those who do not want to visit churches. You can go up to two of its towers, both offering beautiful views of the city.

The construction of the church was the idea of a local bookseller, and much of the work was overseen by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. He dedicated the end of his life to the construction of the Sagrada Familia. He is buried in the crypt of the church.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Access: take metro lines 1 or 5 to the Sagrada Familia stop.

Sagrada Família – The unique artistic wonder

Park Güell

Gaudi’s other futuristic work besides the Sagrada Familia. The park features gaudy buildings and sculptures, and Gaudi himself lived here.

The park was built between 1900 and 1914 and officially opened as a public park in 1926. In 1984, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site under the category „Works of Gaudi”.

The park also offers great views of the city, and the unique creations make it worth entering. Famous are the two „gingerbread houses” at the entrance and the lizard statue next to the staircase.

It’s recommended to buy your ticket online in advance, as it is a very popular place and tickets are often not available on-site!

Information and ticket purchase can be found here!

Access: take bus 116 from the Juanic metro station to the Park Güell stop.

Cathedral (Catedral de Barcelona)

Located in the city center, the Gothic cathedral is where you can see the Catalan dance called Sardana on Sundays at noon.

Construction began in 1298 and lasted for over 150 years, completing in the mid-15th century. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Eulalia, one of Barcelona’s patron saints, and houses her remains.

There are free visiting periods; information can be found here!

Access: take metro line 4 to Jaume I stop.

Santa Maria del Mar Cathedral

Not far from the Cathedral, in the El Born district, this Gothic church is equally impressive.

Its interior is adorned with tall, colorful stained glass windows that create beautiful light effects. Another special feature is that it was built by the members of the community themselves, which also played a significant role in the city’s history.

Access: take metro line 4 to Jaume I stop.

La Rambla

The 1300-meter-long pedestrian street is world-famous, stretching between Placa Catalunya square and the seaside.

You can see many vendors and performers here; it’s a must-see attraction in Barcelona. From the street, many small streets and alleys branch off; it’s worth wandering here during the day.

Palau Güell

Located on a street branching off from La Rambla, this Gaudi building was designed for the Catalan count, Eusebi Güell.

What makes the building remarkable is that a mansion had to be created in a small space, which was successfully accomplished. From the stables in the basement to the spacious main floor where Eusebi Güell and his family lived, the building is full of uniquely designed rooms.

One of the most notable parts of the building is the roof, where Gaudi used his famous „trencadís” technique, creating colorful chimneys from broken tile and ceramic pieces, which have become iconic elements of the Barcelona skyline. There are great views from here.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Placa Reial

Also accessed via an alley off La Rambla, the Royal Square features numerous restaurants and bars, and the square is enlivened by palm trees and a fountain.

Columbus Monument

At the seaside end of La Rambla stands the statue, accessible by an elevator, offering a beautiful view from the top.

Tickets can be purchased online at a lower price.

Access: take metro line 3 to the Drassanes stop.

La Boqueria

This large market is located on the La Rambla pedestrian street. It’s definitely worth entering for the fantastic food and drinks available. Closed on Sundays!

Access: take metro line 3 to the Liceu stop.

Santa Caterina Market (Mercat de Santa Caterina)

Another great market, but much more authentic. Locals shop here, and you can find plenty of meat and seafood.

Access: take metro line 4 to the Jaume I stop, then walk 300 meters.

Casa Milà

Also known as La Pedrera (The Quarry), it is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous residential buildings.

The building practically summarizes his life’s work: here he most perfectly realizes the fusion of nature and architecture. It looks like a rugged, cave-riddled mountain.

Night visits are possible, offering a spectacular view of the illuminated city center from the roof.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Access: take metro lines 3 or 5 to the Diagonal stop.

Casa Batlló

Known as the House of Bones, it was built for a middle-class family between 1904 and 1906.

Gaudi essentially transformed an existing residential building, keeping its structure intact while redesigning the balconies and adding a new roof and floors.

Inside, there are no straight lines or sharp edges, only organic forms. Casa Batlló is one of the most harmonious examples of Gaudi’s Art Nouveau style.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Access: take metro lines 2, 3, or 4 to the Passeig de Gracia stop.

Casa Amatller

The building next to Casa Batlló is less visited but equally stunning inside and out.

It was designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch for the industrialist and chocolatier Antoni Amatller, with construction taking place between 1898 and 1900.

After Amatller’s death in 1910, the house remained the home of his daughter until her death in 1960. Due to continuous ownership by the Amatller family, the house’s interior furnishings from the 1900s have been preserved to this day.

Casa Amatller is one of the key examples of Catalan Modernism, combining Gothic and Flemish architectural elements.

The walls and ceilings are decorated with frescoes, mosaics, and carvings depicting various themes such as family and industry. The ceilings in several rooms feature beautiful patterns. It’s worth looking up in every room.

The house can be visited with a tour guide. All information is available on the official website!

Casa Vicens

Gaudi’s magical early masterpiece, blending Mediterranean lifestyle with the bold lines of Catalan Modernism.

Built between 1883 and 1888, it was commissioned by Manuel Vicens i Montaner, a wealthy tile manufacturer. Vicens had a dual purpose for the house: as a residence and to showcase the unique azulejo products from his factory.

This building displays the architectural concepts that Gaudi would later adopt, such as the exaggeration of colors and the representation of plant motifs, particularly evident in the interiors.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau

One of Barcelona’s most significant Modernist monuments, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Originally functioned as a hospital, and was one of the oldest healthcare institutions in the world. Its uniqueness lies in its architectural style. The complex consists of several pavilions, each richly decorated with tiles, sculptures, and stained glass windows.

A large room is set up as an old hospital room, allowing visitors to see what such an institution looked like in the past.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Access: take metro line 5 to the Sant Pau | Dos de Maig stop.

Aquarium

Located in the seaside area, not far from La Rambla, Barcelona’s aquarium is the largest in Europe.

Its special feature is an 80-meter-long underwater tunnel where rays, sharks, and numerous other species swim above the heads of visitors in six million liters of water.

All information (ticket prices, opening hours, etc.) can be found here!

Access: take bus V17 to the Port Vell stop.

Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona’s most famous park houses several attractions: the Catalan Parliament, a zoo, and the Natural History Museum.

Its most beautiful part is the Cascada Monumental fountain, topped with winged lions and horse-drawn carriages, with fiery dragons emerging below.

The park is filled with orange, magnolia, and oleander trees, and many parrots can be seen.

Access: take metro line 4 to the Ciutadella/Vila Olimpica stop.

Arc de Triomf

A few minutes’ walk from Parc de la Ciutadella along a palm-lined promenade stands this triumphal arch.

Unlike other triumphal arches, this one was not erected to celebrate a military victory but to honor the arts and sciences.

Access: take metro line 1 to the Arc de Triomf stop.

Terrace of Catalan National Museum

The terrace in front of Barcelona’s most significant museum offers a great view, making it a must-visit.

You can reach it via the steps next to the Font Magica de Montjuic fountain, and the panorama is worth the climb.

Access: a 350-meter walk from Espanya metro station.

Montjuic Castle (Castell de Montjuic)

The castle on top of Montjuic hill offers one of the best viewpoints in the city.

Originally built for defensive purposes to oversee the city and harbor, in the 20th century, the castle was used as a military prison and execution site during the Spanish Civil War.

The building itself may not offer much, but many visit for the views from the castle walls.

All information can be found here!

Access: take bus 150 from Espanya metro station.

Transbordador Aeri del Port Cable Car

The cable car runs between the seaside and Montjuic Hill. The route is approximately 1.3 kilometers long, and the entire journey takes about 10 minutes. It offers a wonderful view along the way and is definitely worth the ride!

Public transport tickets are not valid!

Schedule and ticket prices can be found here!

Access: take bus V15 or V19 to the Pg Joan de Borbó – Pl del Mar stop.

Tibidabo

Rising 512 meters above the city, this hill offers the best view of Barcelona.

On the hill stands the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor), which offers beautiful views from its top. The church’s crypt is also worth mentioning. Entry to the church and the crypt is free!

There is an amusement park (Parc d’Atraccions Tibidabo) here. While not modern, it is a great entertainment option for children. Opening hours and ticket purchases can be found on the official website.

The TV tower, Torre de Collserola, also functions as a lookout. You can go up to the 10th floor, making it the highest viewpoint in Barcelona. Opening hours and ticket prices can be found on the official website.

Access: summarized here along with ticket prices.

• Take the S1 or S2 train to the Peu del Funicular station, then take the Vallvidrera funicular, followed by bus 111. All are free with public transport tickets.
• Take the T2A bus (Tibibus) from Placa Catalunya. A separate ticket is required.

Barceloneta

The city’s beach is within easy walking distance from the city center.

The nearly 2 km long sandy beach is always filled with people relaxing, sunbathing, or engaging in sports. Along the promenade, there are many bars and restaurants.

Torre Bellesguard

Another Gaudi creation, less visited because it is not in the immediate city center.

The building was constructed on the ruins of a 15th-century castle once used by King Martin of Aragon. Inspired by the historic site, Gaudi designed it combining Gothic and Modernist elements. The building was constructed between 1900 and 1909.

The iconic tower, Torre Bellesguard, rises from one corner of the base, emphasizing the structure’s verticality with Gaudi’s straight, vertical lines.

The roof is itself a work of art, featuring characteristic Gaudi-style tiles and decorative elements, resembling a dragon. The view from here is also very beautiful.

It can be visited with a guide. All information is available on the official website!

Access: take bus 196 to the Bellesguard-Josep Canaleta stop.

More articles about Barcelona

Three days in Barcelona

Barcelona public transport: airports, ticket types, prices

A Barcelona attractions bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, thanks to its beaches, pleasant weather and charming towns. On the mainland, it borders Portugal, France, Andorra and Gibraltar.

Best places in Spain

Barcelona

One of my favorites is the Catalan capital, which has an excellent atmosphere and lots of sights to see.

The architectural solutions of Gaudí dominate Barcelona, appearing in amazing futuristic creations. Just think of the Sagrada Família church or Park Güell.

Even for those who are not football fans, attending a Barca match is worthwhile. The world-famous football team is a symbol of Catalonia, and watching a match in their huge stadium is an experience.

Thanks to its climate, Barcelona is a great destination in both winter and summer. I have been there twice in January, and both times I enjoyed pleasant weather while exploring the city.

Barcelona attractions

Three days in Barcelona

Tenerife

The most popular of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a unique island. From beautiful beaches to mountainous areas, everything can be found here.

For those who love high mountain hiking, climbing to the peak of Mount Teide, which is 3718 meters high, is a must. However, those who do not want to tire themselves too much can take the cable car up near the summit.

The southern part of the island is the real tourist area, where you can find fine sandy beaches. The most beautiful, however, is in the north. Teresitas beach, at the foot of the mountains, has wonderful golden sandy shores.

Tenerife attractions

Madrid

Of course, the capital cannot be left out of the list!

Madrid is known for its great museums and the football team, Real Madrid.

Even those who are not fond of art must visit one of the world’s most famous museums, the Prado. Masterpieces of Spanish painting can be seen live.

Madrid attractions

Best museums in Madrid

Seville

The center of Andalusia is also famous as the capital of Moorish architecture, making Seville one of the most interesting cities.

Among the architectural masterpieces, Plaza de Espana stands out with its art deco and neo-Mudéjar style. On the side of the building, small alcoves feature tile mosaics depicting significant historical events from each province of the country.

In addition, the Alcazar, a palace with a beautiful garden, showcases the wealth of the caliphs.

Seville attractions

Seville – a place where every part is a true wonder

Toledo

Just 70 km from the capital lies the former capital, which is a popular tourist destination.

The city, built on a rocky hill, is surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, where several magnificent buildings can be admired. Among them is the former Moorish palace, the Alcazar, and the Gothic structure of the Toledo Cathedral, which is among the most beautiful in the world.

Toledo is also known as the city of three cultures, as Muslims, Christians, and Jews all lived freely here. This blend of three styles is felt throughout the city.

So, if you are in Madrid, don’t forget to plan a trip to Toledo! It’s very easy to reach from the capital by train.

Balearic Islands

Each of the three major islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca) is worth a separate trip, so I can’t differentiate between them.

During the summer, each island is very popular. If you want to party, then Ibiza is the clear winner. If you prefer a quieter place, Menorca is more suitable for that purpose.

If you really want white sandy beaches, then while vacationing in Ibiza, you should visit the nearby island of Formentera.

Mallorca attractions, beaches

Menorca attractions, beaches

Valencia

Many say about this city what I wrote about Barcelona: that it will become one of the favorite cities for those who visit.

Valencia has numerous museums, and a whole quarter has been built, named the City of Arts and Sciences. It consists of seven parts, covering an area of 350,000 square kilometers. The buildings are unique, designed by a famous architect inspired by Gaudí’s work.

Another well-known part of the city is a park developed from a former riverbed that cuts through the city. This 8 km long park is filled with flowers, palm trees, and orange trees. The creation of this park was an excellent idea!

Valencia attractions

San Sebastian

The Basque Country is an authentic part of Spain, and like the Catalans, they have a strong sense of identity.

One of its most famous towns is San Sebastian, which was the cultural capital of the year in 2016. Here you can find one of the country’s most beautiful beaches, La Concha beach. Just look at the picture below, and you will think so too!

From the Christ statue on the left hilltop, there’s a magnificent view. It’s somewhat reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro because of this.

Malaga and Costa del Sol

Malaga, Andalusia’s second-largest city, is the heart of the Costa del Sol, a popular tourist destination known for its excellent wines, mild climate, and abundant sunshine.

The Gibralfaro Castle, overlooking the city, offers stunning views of the bullring, the port, the sea, and, on the other side, the mountains. Another attraction is the Alcazaba, Spain’s best-preserved Moorish fortress.

The Sunny Coast stretches nearly 150 km along the Mediterranean Sea, with numerous sandy beaches, resort towns, and hotels welcoming vacationers. With temperatures near 20 degrees Celsius even in winter, it’s worth visiting during this season for some warmth.

Malaga, where we can escape in winter

Malaga attractions

Best museums in Malaga

Castellfollit de la Roca

Located in Catalonia, at the foot of the Pyrenees, this small village is built on a rock outcrop.

The village is built on a 50-meter high, approximately 1-kilometer long basalt rock. It’s essentially a long street, as this part of the rock is so narrow. The village has existed for hundreds of years, allowing tourists to stroll through a genuine medieval village.

Ronda

Called the most beautifully located town in Spain, Ronda sits at an elevation of 750 meters.

You must have seen that picture where a bridge connects two huge rock parts. That is the most characteristic image of Ronda.

Additionally, the town is notable for showcasing multiple architectural styles and for housing one of Spain’s oldest bullfighting arenas.

Fuerteventura

One of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is known for its wonderful beaches and almost lunar landscapes.

The latter is no surprise since it was formed by volcanic activity, which is perhaps most evident here. Due to this unique nature, UNESCO has declared the entire island a biosphere reserve.

The most beautiful beaches can be found in the southern and northern parts of the island. The famous Sotavento long beach and the Corralejo sand dunes are among the most beautiful sights in Fuerteventura.

Fuerteventura attractions, beaches

Bilbao

Bilbao is the center of one of Spain’s authentic regions, the Basque Country.

The Old Town, or Casco Viejo, hides narrow streets, old churches, and colorful buildings. Here, you’ll find the Santiago Cathedral and the Plaza Nueva, famous for its Sunday flea market and tapas bars.

Many may be familiar with the Guggenheim Museum, a renowned museum of modern and contemporary art showcasing works by Spanish and international artists. The building is designed to resemble a ship.

When in Bilbao, be sure to try the local version of tapas, pintxos.

Bilbao attractions

Cuenca

To be honest, I didn’t know the name of this town. Yet, the city located between Madrid and Valencia is a gem within Spain.

Listed by UNESCO, the city is built on a rocky cliff, with houses perched on its „edges”, known as Casas Colgadas or Hanging Houses.

In the main square stands the country’s oldest Gothic cathedral, built in the 12th century. Legend has it that the Holy Grail was kept in this church.

Near the city, there is a natural curiosity. The Ciudad Encantada, or Enchanted City, hides unique geological formations, shaping various figures.

Santiago de Compostela

One of the prominent centers of Galicia, it is the western endpoint of the Way of St. James, better known as El Camino in Spain.

Its most famous attraction is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the largest Romanesque church built in Spain. It is said to be the burial place of Saint James the Elder, whose final resting place is now adorned with a life-sized statue of the saint.

However, Compostela is not only worth visiting for this reason. This is evidenced by the fact that in 1985, its old town was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and the city was the European Capital of Culture in 2000.

Segovia

Located 100 km from Madrid, the city is famous for its Roman aqueduct and medieval old town, both of which are also World Heritage Sites.

The aqueduct is actually a bridge, one of the most significant Roman monuments on the Iberian Peninsula. It has a total of 167 arches: from its arrival in the city to the Plaza del Día Sanz, it has 75 simple arches, followed by 44 double (or 88 in total), and then four more simple arches.

The Alcázar fortress is one of Spain’s most distinctive castle palaces due to its shape. It was built by the Almoravid dynasty in the 11th century. Today, the fortress houses a museum and a military archive.

Granada

Granada is a prominent tourist center, thanks to its monuments and the proximity to the Sierra Nevada ski resort and the historical region known as the Alpujarras.

Among its historical buildings, the Alhambra fortress and palace is one of the country’s most important monuments, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 along with the Generalife gardens and the Albaicín district.

The Granada Cathedral is considered Spain’s first Renaissance church. The royal chapel attached to the cathedral houses the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs.

Granada attractions

A day in Granada

Córdoba

The former Roman and Islamic city center of Córdoba boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage.

It is famous for the Mezquita, once the world’s largest mosque, now functioning as a Catholic cathedral. It is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture, expanded with Christian elements.

The most significant Roman remnant is the Puente Romano, or Roman Bridge, spanning the Guadalquivir River. Built in the 1st century, it played a vital role in the city’s history and remains a spectacular sight today.

Córdoba attractions, museums, weather

Júzcar

Andalusia already offers many attractions, so the locals took a bold step to attract tourists.

Until 2011, the village houses were traditionally painted white, but then for promotional purposes of The Smurfs, they were all painted sky blue. The „plan” worked, as many tourists visited the village.

Girona

Girona is a city in the northeastern part of Catalonia, located at the confluence of the Ter, Onyar, Galligants, and Güell rivers.

Its cathedral is a standout attraction, famous for having the world’s largest Gothic nave and a stunning Roman-style staircase leading to its entrance. Here, you can see the famous Tapestry of Creation, a medieval masterpiece.

Its ancient walls, narrow streets, and colorful houses rising along the riverbank offer a unique sight. The historic old town, Barri Vell, is home to the well-preserved Jewish quarter, El Call, where a thriving Jewish community lived in past centuries.

Cádiz

Often called Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, its history stretches back over 3000 years to when it was founded by the Phoenicians as Gadir.

Cádiz has a unique atmosphere, surrounded by the sea, known for its carnival, lively streets, and friendly ambiance.

In the old town, the El Pópulo district features narrow streets and historic buildings, including the baroque and neoclassical Cádiz Cathedral. Another significant monument is the Torre Tavira, an 18th-century watchtower that is the highest point of the old town, offering magnificent views of the city and surrounding sea.

Burgos

An important stop on the Camino de Santiago, it was the capital of Old Castile in the 10th and 11th centuries.

The Burgos Cathedral is the city’s symbol and one of the most important Gothic architectural masterpieces in Spain. Its elegance, harmony of lines, and the fact that it is the only Spanish cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on its own, without its surroundings, make it particularly impressive.

When visiting, be sure to try the local morcilla (blood sausage), traditionally made with rice, onions, and spices.

Ávila

Close to Madrid, this city is known for its well-preserved city walls, which are also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built in the 11th century, the walls stretch about 2.5 kilometers around the city, with more than 80 towers and nine gates, making Ávila one of the best-preserved medieval fortified cities in Europe.

It is also known as the birthplace of Teresa de Jesús, one of the most venerable saints of the Catholic Church, whose life and work significantly influenced the city’s history.

Salamanca

Located near the Portuguese border, Salamanca is one of Spain’s most important academic and cultural centers. Several of its buildings are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Plaza Mayor, often considered Spain’s most beautiful main square, is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Additionally, its two cathedrals are wonderful examples of the blending of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Since 2003, the „Holy Week of Salamanca” preceding Easter has been the city’s most important event.

Jorquera

Located to the northeast of Albacete city, along the Júcar River, it sits on a prominence that makes it popular.

The river takes a bend here, and along this bend, on a rocky outcrop, lies the town. The castle and fortifications here were built by the Almohads.

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