What to do in Spain? A list of the 10 best ideas

What to do in Spain

Are you going on holiday to Spain and want to know what you can do in this beautiful country? Of the countless things you can do during your Spanish holiday, we have compiled a list of the very best activities for you below. Your trip to Spain will certainly be unforgettable! Are you curious? Then read on and find out everything you need to know about  this ultimate holiday destination for young and old!

1.     Vamos a la playa

What to do in Spain

With over 5,000 kilometres of coastline on the mainland alone, it’s no coincidence that a beach visit is number one on this list. From the sunny coastline along the azure waters of the Mediterranean to the pristine cliffs of the Bay of Biscay. Don’t forget the volcanic beaches of the Canary Islands and the exotic bays of the Balearic Islands. If you love the beach life, Spain is the place to be. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and beach towel when you leave for the sunny south.

If you can’t get enough of Spain’s beaches, read our Costa Brava guide or take a look at our selection of the 12 most beautiful beaches in Spain!

2.     Paella and other Spanish culinary delights

What to do in Spain

Spaniards love good food and a major part of their social life revolves around meals. Famous dishes include the Spanish rice dish Paella that is served in large round pans. Originally from Valencia, this dish features on many menus throughout the country. Along the coast, fish and seafood are common ingredients. Indulge in freshly grilled sardines or sample the varied cuisine with a delicious tapas meal.

3.     The Spanish nightlife

What to do in Spain

From local bars to large discotheques where world-famous DJs personally spin their records, Spain has it all. Lloret de Mar may be the place to be for those who like to go out until sunrise, but the party island of Ibiza is also known for its vibrant nightclubs. This does not mean that the nightlife in other places is not great. On the contrary! In big cities and seaside resorts such as Barcelona, Madrid, Marbella and Salou, the choice of venues is enormous. Wherever you go in Spain, an evening in the local bar or a night out at a club is a must.

Are you a real nightlife fan? Then read  our best Lloret de Mar nightlife guide or take a look at our blog: Going out in Spain: discover the best places for the perfect night out!

4.     Boat trip at sea

What to do in Spain

When you go on holiday to Spain, the sea is bound to be nearby. Go on a catamaran or sailboat ride, or rent a boat yourself. Not only will this activity provide a refreshing sea breeze during the hot days, but you will literally see Spain from the other side. Unwind to the sound of the waves lapping against the side of the boat. And you might even spot dolphins during your trip on water.

5.     Visit an amusement park

What to do in Spain

There is no shortage of amusement parks and entertainment in Spain. In Lloret de Mar, you will find the largest water park in Europe: Waterworld. Here you are guaranteed a day of fun with family and friends of all ages. There are fun pools and sunbathing areas for the little ones, while the older daredevils can boost their adrenaline with rides whose names like X-treme Mountain and Speed Furious sound as exciting as the slide itself. Port Aventura near Salou is another amusement park where both young and old can spend a wonderful day. The little ones can have the time of their lives in Gnomo park in Lloret de Mar.  

6.     Shopping at the market

What to do in Spain

Almost every town in Spain has one or more markets, which means that every day you can stroll past stalls. At the weekly markets, vendors offer all kinds of merchandise: from clothing and fabrics to local delicacies or beautiful ceramics. Most fishing villages have an old fish market, where the fresh catch of the day is traded every day. The larger towns and cities almost all have a covered fresh market, where you can buy the freshest tomatoes, vegetables, hams and fish from Monday to Saturday. One of the most famous markets in the country is Mercat de Boqueria on the Ramblas in Barcelona, while Mercado Central in Valencia is the largest fresh market in Europe.

7.     Adventurous water sports

What to do in Spain

Whether you are a real water lover or not, you can enjoy the best water sports during your holiday on the Spanish coast. Real speed demons can step onto a banana boat, go parasailing or spend an afternoon on a jet ski. If you prefer to take in the surroundings in a quieter way, go kayaking or standup paddleboarding. Especially on the Costa Brava, this is a unique way to admire the rugged coastline and hidden bays. Curious about the underwater world? From virtually every beach in Spain you can walk into the water to admire the fish with your snorkel. The protected Medes Islands off the coast of Estartit are a particularly special place, where you can take wonderful guided diving excursions among the fish and coral.

8.     Wine Routes

What to do in Spain

Spain produces delicious wines and the best part is that you can visit several wineries during your holiday. Just south of Barcelona lies the wine region of Penedès. A tour in this area takes you through a hilly landscape with not only vineyards, but castles as well. From the extreme south of the country comes the famous sherry, or as the Spaniards call it “Jerez”. The capital of this drink is called Jerez de la Frontera, where you can visit several typical bodegas. But of course you can also just enjoy a real Spanish wine on a terrace anywhere in the country without visiting a bodega.

9.     Visit a flamenco show

What to do in Spain

Flamenco is a typical Spanish folk dance that originated in Southern Spain. The dancers wear beautiful dresses and are accompanied by a guitar. The singing, dancing and rhythmic clapping of a flamenco show ensure a distinct and unforgettable evening. Although the folk dance originated in Andalusia, you can enjoy this spectacular event all over the country, including at various “Tablaos” in Barcelona and in hotels. Book your ticket in advance as the shows are very popular. If you just drop in, chances are the show will be sold out.

10. Staying in a villa

What to do in Spain
Club Villamar – Villa Nayara – Costa Brava

Enjoy an unforgettable holiday in Spain by booking a villa where you and your friends and family can spend the days together under the Spanish sun. Are you looking for an elegant holiday home, or a large villa? At Club Villamar you will find your ideal holiday home, often with a private pool.

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Are you interested in discovering more about Spain and what to expect during your holiday? Then read on here and find out everything you have always wanted to know about this wonderful holiday destination and its many beautiful spots.