Spain: best attractions. Spain: must-sees? Sights of Spain The most famous sights of Spain

Spain: unusual and surprising places to see

Do you dream of visiting the most unusual Spanish attractions? Then check out the TOP 5 unusual places in Spain.

Spain boasts an ancient culture and history, picturesque beaches, the highest mountains in Europe, buzzing cosmopolitan cities and remote tiny villages.

Rio Tinto River, Huelva

This unusual red river is the birthplace of iron, copper, gold and silver. Located in southern Andalusia, in the province of Huelva, Rio Tinto boasts a 5,000-year history. Early records prove that the Iberians and Tartessians first discovered this area, and later the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths and Moors settled here.

This river is a favorite among NASA scientists who come to study such extreme conditions for the survival of aquatic animals.

Setenil de las Bodegas, Cadiz

This village, located in the province of Cadiz, rightfully takes pride of place on the list of unusual places to visit in Spain. The 3,000 people in Setenil de las Bodegas live alone with nature: their houses literally support the mountain. Not the best place to live for people with claustrophobia, but it’s worth seeing this miracle at least once in your life. It's also home to some of Spain's best olive oils!

Temple of Debod, Madrid

A few meters from Plaza España, in one of the most beautiful parks in Madrid - Montaña, stands an ancient Egyptian temple.

This 4th century BC temple originally stood in Egypt in the Nile Valley, but was sent piecemeal to Spain in 1968 as a gift. This is a gift from the Egyptian government in recognition of its assistance in building the Aswan High Dam and saving key historical sites from flooding.

The lake, which reflects the Temple of Debod, is perhaps the best place to watch the sunset in Madrid.

Tabernas Desert

Torcal, Antequera

mountain range Torcal, which amazes all tourists, is located outside the city of Antequera, in the heart of Andalusia.

The karst formations are some of the most spectacular in Europe, they were formed over millions of years, and some rocks even survived dinosaurs. The Torcal limestone was part of the seafloor more than 150 million years ago, and the entire region was located under the Tethys Sea.

There are several hiking trails around the park - this is a great way to see and feel the power and antiquity of nature. Kids will love this fun adventure as they walk through tunnels, crawl through caves and marvel at bizarre fossils - this is dinosaur land, after all!

Sights and museums, the most interesting cities, beach holidays, ski resorts and hotel prices in Spain

The slogan of the Spanish tourism department is “I need Spain”. If you agree with this statement and have already planned a vacation in a hospitable Mediterranean country, then it will be useful for you to familiarize yourself with information about its main attractions. In this review, we have prepared brief information about tourist locations from the “must see” list in Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Seville, Granada, Marbella, cultural features of Spanish leisure, popular resorts, shopping and cuisine.

Knowledgeable travelers claim that Spain is such a diverse country that it is almost impossible to get to know it in one visit. However, this should not bother you! Your first meeting with Spain can be so impressive that you will want to come back here again and again to continue immersing yourself in the original culture, centuries-old history and hectic pace of life in the modern homeland of Dali and Cervantes.

Attractions

Madrid

The capital of sunny Spain is often called one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. To be convinced of this, you just need to walk along its wide and busy avenues on your own. Hurry to visit the most famous museums with impressive collections of world masterpieces and spend a siesta in the shade of plane trees in one of the parks of the capital, escaping the heat. And when darkness falls, it’s worth starting a tour of the city’s drinking establishments. You will be surprised to notice that traffic on Gran Via, Madrid's main street, is even busier at night than during the day. It’s not for nothing that Madrid breaks all European records for the number of nightclubs, restaurants and bars per capita.

The heart of the city is called Puerta del Sol. It is decorated with an equestrian statue of Charles III and the symbol of Madrid, placed on the city's coat of arms - the Ursa with a strawberry tree. The "Gateway of the Sun" is the geographical center of not only Madrid, but the whole of Spain. Here you will find a bronze tablet from which distances to all populated areas of the country are calculated. The oldest building in the square, built in 1761, is the Post Office House, which today houses the government of the Autonomous Region of Madrid. Its façade is decorated with a clock that notifies the Spaniards of the coming of the New Year.

Another square no less attractive to travelers is Plaza Mayor. During the Middle Ages, it served as a market and at the same time a place where executions at the stake and bullfights were held. Today it is decorated with an equestrian statue of Philip III and two outstanding buildings - the Baker's House, easily recognizable by the frescoes on the pediment, and the Butcher's House, which houses the city executive authorities. Adjacent to the east of the square is the Plaza de la Provincia with the Santa Cruz Palace - Spanish Foreign Ministry. Tourists also like to stroll along Villa Square, decorated with the Consistory building. At one time it also housed the La Villa prison, and today municipal officials work there.

If you would like to hear about the history of Madrid from qualified guides, you can join a two- or three-hour walking tour in Russian. , second -

As you know, Spain is ruled by a king. Anyone can visit his residence - the Royal Palace, built in the classical Baroque style of granite and white stone. Experienced travelers claim that the palace vaguely resembles the French Versailles. It is considered one of the most interesting attractions of the city. Entrance ticket for adults will cost 10 euros, for children - 5 euros. Juan Carlos II visits his residence exclusively for official events. The palace is open to tourists all year round; it is better to check the schedule at.

In the immediate vicinity of the palace, on its northern side, free entry to the Sabatini Gardens is open to everyone - this is a quiet and cozy place with neat flower beds, a rectangular pond and amazing living boxwood sculptures. This is where the best photos of the Royal Palace are taken. The garden is open to the public from 10:00 to 20:00 (from October to March until 18:00).

Do you like football? Then you should definitely know the legendary Spanish team Real Madrid. It is called the real pride of Spain. If you are lucky, you will be able to catch a match of the best football club of the 20th century. There is a museum at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium where all the team's awards over the 114 years of its existence are kept. A visit to the museum is part of a tour of the legendary stadium. The cost of an adult ticket is 19 euros, a child ticket (under 14 years old) is 13 euros. Tickets can be purchased at box office No. 10. Comprehensive information on the tour on the official website.

Since we're talking about museums, we can't help but mention the Museo del Prado - the main artistic attraction of Madrid. Any self-respecting connoisseur of fine arts knows that the Prado is the richest museum in the world, whose scale can only be compared with the Hermitage, the Uffizi Gallery or the Louvre. Within its walls you will encounter masterpieces by Goya, Bosch, Rubens, Botticelli, Durer and Rembrandt. Allow a whole day to visit the Prado, as its exhibition will require a lot of free time from you. The museum is open from 9.00 to 20.00, except holidays and Mondays. Entrance ticket from 4 to 8 euros. When entering, do not forget to take a map of the halls, on which all the most striking paintings are marked, otherwise you risk getting lost and missing the most valuable things.

In Madrid, in addition to the Prado, there are two more outstanding museums - (entrance ticket 10 euros) and (adult ticket 12 euros, reduced price 8 euros, on Mondays from 12:00 to 16:00 - free admission). These three collections of paintings are called nothing less than the “Golden Triangle of Arts” of Madrid.

Museum card

When traveling to Madrid, do not forget to purchase the Madrid Card - a discount card that will give you free travel on public transport, discounts of at least 30% in cafes and shops, skip-the-line entry to museums, and even guide services. You can order a card at or in tourist centers of the city. Its cost for one day is 47 euros, for 3 days - 67 euros, for children for 1 day - 34 euros, for 3 days - 44 euros.

Neighborhoods of Madrid: where to go?

Warner Brothers Film Park

If you love movies or are traveling with children, then include a visit to the Warner Brothers Film Park in your travel plan. It is quite easy to get to: the commuter train line C-3 departs from Atocha station. The journey takes 25 minutes. Your Pinto station, then you will need to take bus No. 413. We advise you to check the bus schedule so as not to be late for the last one. A taxi from the park to the train stop will cost 20 euros.

The area of ​​the amusement park is 250 hectares, it is divided into thematic zones - Cartoon Village, Hollywood Boulevard, Super Heroes World. Children will be interested in meeting their favorite cartoon characters, while adults will be able to ride numerous roller coasters and tickle their nerves in haunted houses. The entrance ticket on the site for all categories of visitors is 25.9 euros, on site it is much more expensive. The schedule is possible.

Escorial

We recommend heading to Escorial to visit the stunning 16th-century monastery and palace of San Lorenzo del Escorial. Here you will meet monumental paintings by Bosch, Velazquez, Veronese, Tintoretto, Titian and El Greco, and get acquainted with tapestries made according to sketches by Rubens Goya. A visit to Escorial is complemented by a walk to the marble mausoleum of the Spanish kings, in which only two tombs are free.

El Escorial also attracts with its climate, which is atypical for Spain - it is always cool here, even if in Madrid the air temperature has risen to an uncomfortable +30 degrees. An hour-long trip to El Escorial will give you not only an encounter with beauty, but also the opportunity to take a break from the scorching Spanish sun. The complex is open to the public from 10:00 to 20:00 except Mondays, from October to March until 18:00. Entrance ticket is 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for beneficiaries. A trip from Madrid will cost you 7-20 euros, depending on the chosen transport. You can go by bus or train.

Flamenco

Such a cultural phenomenon as flamenco deserves special attention. Andalusia is considered to be the birthplace of this dance, but shows of groups that perform on an ongoing basis can be seen in all major cities of the country. If you want to watch flamenco dancing in Madrid, go to one of the "tablaos" - that's the name of the stage where the dancers perform. The oldest tablao in the capital of Spain is called

performances have been taking place here since 1956. You will surely be captivated by the graceful dancers in rustling scarlet skirts, who passionately and selflessly dance a hot dance to the ringing guitar chords.

This location is included in the list of “100 places you need to visit in your lifetime.” Music critics claim that El Corral de la Moreria is the best venue not only in Spain, but also in Europe. Concert organizers invite talented musicians and dancers from all over the country. A ticket to the show will cost you 50 euros (this price includes 1 drink).

The most interesting cities in Spain: Barcelona, ​​Seville, Granada, Marbella

Barcelona

Barcelona is called nothing less than the Architectural miracle of Spain. The Catalan capital's numerous historical sites attract millions of tourists every year. Guests are recommended to begin their exploration of the city by visiting the Gothic Quarter, the oldest in the Old Town. Its buildings date back to the XIV-XV centuries. The most visited location is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia. It houses the residence of the archbishop. White geese live in the chapel of the cathedral; their color symbolizes the purity and purity of St. Eulalia. It is better to check opening hours on the website catedralbcn.org. Visit to the choirs and observation deck on the roof for 3 euros.

Fans of secular architecture will certainly appreciate the Grand Royal Palace (adult ticket 4 euros, discounted ticket 2.5 euros, children under 6 years free), the unique concert hall Palace of Catalan Music (55-minute tour 18 euros, reduced ticket 11 euros), the Jewish Quarter Cal and the Gothic fountain in Sant Just Square.

The most popular museum in Barcelona is the Picasso Museum museupicasso.bcn.cat. This is a whole complex occupying 5 Gothic buildings on Moncada Street. Ticket price is 12 euros, free for children under 18 years old.

It is simply impossible to visit Barcelona and not touch the legacy of the great inventor Antonio Gaudi. It was according to his drawings that the construction of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral began, which is still unfinished. This fact does not prevent the enchanting building with many towers from playing the honorable role of the city’s calling card. The cost of tickets to the Sagrada Familia Cathedral is 15-29 euros (self-guided tour, with guide, with audio guide). The work schedule is better. In addition to the Sagrada Familia, Senor Gaudí's creative collection also includes secular buildings - the Palace of Güell, the Casa Vicens, the Casa Mila, nicknamed "The Quarry", and the Calvette mansion. All these eccentric buildings are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Montjuic area deserves special attention. Its most striking attractions: the fortress of the same name and the National Museum of Art of Catalonia museunacional.cat (entrance ticket 12 euros, children under 16 years old, visitors over 65 years old - free). Tourists love to see the Magic Fountain and the exhibition (adult ticket 12 euros, reduced ticket 7 euros, children under 15 years old free). It was on Mount Montjuic that two world-scale events took place at once - the World Exhibition (1929) and the XXV Summer Olympic Games (1992).

Seville

The capital of Andalusia is famous for its outstanding historical quarter, one of the largest in Europe. Tourists like to start exploring the city with a visit to the Cathedral catedraldesevilla.es, where the remains of Christopher Columbus, who set off from the local harbor to the New World, rest. Entrance ticket for adults is 9 euros, reduced price is 4 euros, children under 14 years old are free.

An equally popular place among city guests is the Art Museum, the second largest collection of paintings in the country. The calling card of the city is the cathedral's bell tower, the Giralda.

This imposing building once served as the minaret of a mosque. Now there is an observation deck at an altitude of 98 meters. Ticket price is 8 euros, students and pensioners pay 3 euros. It is better to check opening hours. Another evidence of the Moorish invasion is the Alcazar palace-fortress alcazarsevilla.org with many galleries, waterfalls, fountains, courtyards and cozy gardens. An entrance ticket will cost 11.5 euros, a reduced ticket will cost 3 euros.

There are night tours (14 euros) and free visits on Monday evenings. Don't miss the Golden Tower visitasevilla.es (entrance ticket 3 euros, reduced price 1.5 euros) and the magnificent observation deck, the Triana Bridge. In Seville you can admire the spectacle that made Spain famous throughout the world - bullfighting. above the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza.

Granada

The pearl of Granada is the “Red Fortress” or Alhambra, the only example of Moorish architecture in the city. The Alhambra rises above the city, cresting a steep ridge above a wooded hill. The official website of the architectural complex is alhambra-patronato.es. We recommend booking your ticket in advance through the hotel administrator to avoid standing in line. Entrance ticket - 14 euros (includes visiting the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, Generalife), children under 12 years old are free.

An equally interesting location in Granada is the old summer palace of the Arab sultans, decorated with fountains, pools and stunning Generalife gardens. Ticket to the gardens - 7 euros, in the evening - 8 euros. Among Christian attractions I would like to mention the Church of St. Jose, the Abbey of Sacromonte and the Basilica of St. John. If you want to try Maghreb Arabic cuisine, head to Calle Calderería (Calle de las Teterías). And for lovers of bathing leisure, there is a high-class spa complex in Granada, designed in the style of traditional Muslim baths.

Marbella

The Spanish Mediterranean city of Marbella is a fashionable and very fashionable resort. During the high season, its population increases 2.5 times, reaching 200 thousand people. It is here, on the Golden Mile, that the most prestigious Spanish hotels and villas are located, where celebrities from all over the world and even members of royal families regularly relax. Some of the most comfortable beaches on the Costa del Sol include Bounty Beach, Playa de Rio Real, Playa de Alicate, Playa Hermosa Playa Real de Zaragoza Playa Fontanilla and Playa de Nueva Andalucía. The city has 4 operating ports - one of them is fishing and three are sports.

The most famous of them, the largest sports port on the Mediterranean Sea, is Puerto Banus. It is decorated with the “Victory” monument - a bronze giant, a gift from the sculptor Zurab Tsereteli. It is a stele topped with the figure of a man with his arms raised, looking out to the sea. Local residents dubbed him “the Russian who came to the sea for the first time.” Among the historical attractions of the city are many interesting ancient buildings: ancient Roman mosaics in Villa de Rio Verde and baths of the 3rd century AD in the town of San Pedro, Paleochristian basilica of the 3rd-4th centuries AD. in Vega del Mar, the Alcazaba fortress with the Thieves' and Royal Towers. A walk through the old city will give you many unforgettable impressions - the Ermita de Santiago chapel in Orange Square and the Corregidor House, made in Gothic and Renaissance styles, will be remembered by travelers for a long time.

Those wishing to admire the wonderful Mediterranean nature will enjoy the parks and botanical gardens of Marbella - La Alameda Poplar Avenue, one of the oldest parks in the city and the Arollo de la Represa Garden, cascading down to the embankment itself with the amazing Bonsai Museum, which boasts the most impressive collection of mini-trees in Europe.

If you feel like you've already explored Marbella well, take one of the Costa del Sol sightseeing tours. This trip will take 2 days and cost 200-250 euros per person. Another interesting option for spending time is an excursion to Morocco. A one-day tour crossing Gibraltar and visiting Tangier costs 70-80 euros.

Beach holidays in Spain

Did you know that Spain is usually called “The most beachy country in the world”? And this is the case when quantity is inextricably linked with quality. More than six hundred beaches in Spain have been awarded the Blue Flag, an international award confirming that they are suitable for safe swimming. Please note that absolutely all beaches in the country are municipal and completely free. Let's get acquainted with the most popular beach regions of the country so that you can choose a destination that meets your ideas about an ideal vacation by the sea.

Mallorca is usually called a resort for bohemians. One of the Balearic Islands will welcome its guests with comfortable air and water temperatures, pleasant breezes, and the natural beauty of bays and lagoons. First-class hotels with well-trained staff will offer a lot of entertainment. If you get tired of a lazy beach holiday and admiring exotic nature, then diving, windsurfing, and rock climbing are at your service.

Tenerife is called the “Island of Eternal Spring” for its surprisingly mild climate, because even in winter the air temperature does not drop below +21 °C. One of the islands of the Canary archipelago is usually chosen by families with children and newlyweds. And this is not without reason - the gentle sea, magnificent sandy beaches, interesting excursion program and picturesque nature allow this place to be included in the list of the world's best resorts.

You will like the Costa del Sol if you don't like too much sun. The temperature at the resort rarely rises above +21 °C even at the height of summer. Obviously, this fact does not bother millions of tourists who happily come to Andalusia every year to the Sunny Beach resorts - Benalmadena, Malaga, Marbella, Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Estepona.

The Valencian resort of the Costa Blanca is popular due to its pristine beaches with white sand. Tourists are attracted by the excellent infrastructure and the opportunity to spend active leisure time at sea - scuba diving, cycling around the area, practicing rock climbing and windsurfing.

The Costa Brava, or “Coast of the Brave,” is located in close proximity to the border with France. This resort features a large number of Blue Flag beaches, as well as cozy bays and coves. The inaccessible rocks are covered with fir and pine trees. Suitable for families with many amusement parks and water attractions.

San Sebastian is an elegant resort located on the Cantabrian coast. Representatives of the European elite from Switzerland, Germany, Austria and France come here for a quiet holiday. Jazz fans come to San Sebastian every year for the Jazzaldia festival, and the International Film Festival is held here at the end of September, which means that the cinematic elite from all over the world arrive here for the velvet season.

Costa Dorada (“Golden Coast”) received its poetic name thanks to the purest golden sand, which shimmers in the shallow and warm sea lagoons, like real gold. The proximity to Barcelona makes this place popular among those who want to not only bask in the gentle Spanish sun, but also visit the many attractions of Catalonia. Families with children and young people like to relax on the Costa Dorada. The first ones like the shallow sea, comfortable hotels and a warm mild climate, the second ones like affordable prices and an abundance of amusement parks.

Connoisseurs of sea leisure claim that Benidorm has the best beaches in the Mediterranean. This resort in the Costa Blanca region attracts guests with a wide range of services, especially appreciated by fans of outdoor activities and party-goers. There are many clubs and discos in Benidorm. This Valencian coastal town is equally popular with families with children, as many of the resort's hotels offer free accommodation for children under 12 years of age. In Benidorm there are children's playgrounds and entertainment centers, you can order babysitting services, and in restaurants parents of children will be offered a separate children's menu.

The Costa Tropical resort is located in the province of Granada. Tourists choose this place for its excellent beaches and calm, relaxed atmosphere, conducive to a good rest. The subtropical climate gives resort guests 320 sunny days a year. The average air temperature does not exceed +24 C and there is practically no precipitation in the summer. The choice of hotels will please even the most demanding audience. The abundance of water parks and well-thought-out infrastructure makes Costa Tropical an ideal place for both families and youth.

Club holidays in Spain

Among fans of club culture, the island of Ibiza, which belongs to the Balearic archipelago, is considered a real Mecca. It is worth telling about this wonderful island in more detail. Despite the fact that it is 80 km away from mainland Spain, getting to Ibiza will not be difficult. The number of flights to Ibiza increases during the high season. If you are flying from Moscow, you will have to change planes in Barcelona. Such flights are operated by Vueling Airlines. The journey takes about 7 hours, cost from 240 euros. If you want to save money, you can choose a codeshare flight from Air Italy and Vueling Airlines with an independent connection in Milan. The journey takes about 13 hours, but the ticket will cost 191 euros.

There are also no direct flights from St. Petersburg. S7 Airlines offers flights through Moscow from 182 euros, the journey takes about a day, Vueling Airlines and Iberia will take you to Ibiza in just 6 hours, a ticket will cost 262 euros one way.

If you are traveling through Madrid or Barcelona, ​​you can take advantage of the offers of European low-cost airlines. A ticket from the capital will cost 41-68 euros, travel time is a little over 1 hour. Such flights are regularly operated by Iberia Express, Ryanair, and Vueling Airlines. From the capital of Catalonia you can fly to Ibiza for 24-28 euros with Ryanair and Vueling Airlines.

Another option is the ferries that operate regularly between Barcelona and Ibiza.

Information about flights can be found on the websites of carrier companies and Acciona. A one-way trip will cost from 60 euros, the journey takes 9 hours, but this time can be spent at a fiery sea disco, in a bar, in a swimming pool or in a cinema.

What awaits you in Ibiza besides parties all night long, famous DJs, foam parties and crazy sets from electronic music gurus? Nice beaches, gentle sun, picturesque olive groves, warm sea. It should be noted that the capital of the island of the same name is included in the UNESCO heritage list.

When is the best time to fly to Ibiza if you want to dive headfirst into the club scene? The season opens in May, and its peak falls on the velvet season. From August to September, the world's most famous DJs, club residents and fans of club leisure flock to the island.

Let us note that during this period of time the not-boring island truly “awakens” with the advent of dusk - stylish boutiques, bars and nightclubs begin to open. The most popular "warm-up bars" open their doors to partygoers looking to recharge before hitting the club. This is not surprising, since most club establishments are open from 2 a.m. until the morning.

The most famous clubs in Ibiza make waves all over the world: Amnesia is famous for its foam parties, Privilege is the largest nightclub in the world, Space is open around the clock, Pacha does not close even in the “low season” and from the spacious terrace of El Divino, which serves as a dance floor for hundreds guests have a magnificent view of the ancient fortress of Dalt Vila.

Ski resorts in Spain

Despite the fact that Spain is considered a country with a stable hot climate, ski tourism here is developed no worse than beach destinations. The most famous and visited ski resorts in the country are Port del Comte, La Molina and Baqueira Beret, located in the Catalan hills. Baqueira Beret is a favorite vacation spot for members of the royal dynasty and high-ranking politicians, including the president. And at the heights of the Aragonese Pyrenees, with their famous thermal springs, there are no less popular resorts of Candanza, Astuna and Boi Taul.

Formigal, located in the province of Zaragoza, is considered the largest winter resort in Spain. There is usually little snow here, but walking tours along high mountain routes with coniferous forests will appeal to all wildlife lovers.

An hour's drive from the Mediterranean coast is the Sierra Nevada ski resort. The conditions offered to tourists here correspond to international standards, and in 1996 the World Alpine Ski Championships were held in Sierra Nevada. Barcelona and Madrid winter resorts are not characterized by long-term seasonal attendance, but they compensate for this deficiency with a wide selection of original entertainment and accommodation options for vacationers. Not far from Madrid are La Pinilla, Navacerrada and Valdeschi. In the vicinity of Barcelona there is Espot-Esqui and the same Baqueira-Beret. Here you will be invited to taste the most exquisite wines and rich Spanish cuisine as part of gastronomic and wine tours. But Spanish food is worth talking about separately.

What and where to eat

Legends are made about Spanish cuisine. It’s a rare traveler who, having visited Spain once, does not bring with him a new favorite dish. The abundance of restaurants and cafes leaves no chance to miss the opportunity to try national dishes and enjoy excellent wines. Here they take care of the tastes of not only adherents of colorful Spanish cuisine, but also those who prefer familiar food when visiting. In Spain, you can freely dine in an Italian, Japanese or Mexican restaurant. Note that Spanish cuisine itself varies regionally.

It is not surprising that Spain is home to the world's oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botin, which opened in Madrid in 1725. Locals say that Francisco Goya once worked here as a dishwasher.

For fast food lovers, the Spanish coast offers 24 hours a day to visit McDonald's, WOK TO WALK, KFS, as well as try national Spanish sandwiches in the fast food chain 100 montaditos, or use the business lunch service from 12 to 16 noon for 10-12 euros. In the same price range, you can dine in a small Chinese restaurant, trying not only Asian, but also European cuisine. Street food will cost from 4 to 7 euros (we are talking about stuffed tortillas, churros, pizza or Spanish bocadio sandwiches).

Tapeo and the famous tapas bars are a separate type of recreation for Spaniards who want to have a tasty snack, drink excellent red wine and have a heart-to-heart conversation in the company of friends. Before serving the main course, various appetizers are placed on the table, each of which can be considered a complete and satisfying meal in itself, and then guests are offered cold gazpacho soup, perhaps the most common food in Spain.
Equally popular is the colorful paella with healthy seafood and golden rice, as well as a dry-cured pork product called jamon. For a dinner for two with alcohol, be prepared to pay about 50 euros in Madrid.

Spain has always been famous for its hospitality and warm attitude towards guests, whom it is customary to treat with wine. Of the white wines, the most popular are Ampurdan and Penedes, and the Spaniards give the famous sherry a special place in the national wine list. The world-famous sangria is usually made with semi-sweet red wine and served with crushed fruit, ice and soda.

What and where to buy

While walking along the colorful Spanish streets, don’t forget to buy local homemade souvenirs that incorporate the whole range of impressions from your trip to this beautiful country.

From Spain they bring:

legendary castanets (from 10 euros), which can be bought as a gift to friends who are interested in music;
figurines of a bull or bullfighter made of wood, marble or clay. Also popular are bullfighting posters for 10 euros, where anyone can enter their name as a participant in the tournament;
red woolen cap "barretina vermelha";
famous Mallorcan colored glass and pearls;
figurines of a “pooping” man – caganera, which, according to the Spaniards, brings success, happiness and a rich life;
original leather goods (from 20 euros).

For gastronomic souvenirs, packaged jamon from the local supermarket from the famous culinary specialist Pedro Diego (from 10 to 17 euros per 1 kg), the highlight of Spanish cheese making is Manchego, a semi-hard cheese made from sheep's milk (10 euros per 1 kg). Pay attention to olive oil (5 euros), wine, spices, turron (3-5 euros), dessert that tastes like halva and aromatic tea.
Also very popular are porcelain (from 5 euros), the finest and exclusive lace (from 5 to 500 euros), amazing silk embroidery, fans (from 5 euros) and, of course, wine (sangria from 2 euros).

Spain is considered one of the world's largest shopping centers. There are a huge number of stores of the most famous and popular brands of world stars in the fashion industry, and the largest stock centers of leading manufacturers of clothing and household items. Fashion weeks are regularly held in Spain, setting the tone and direction for the upcoming season not only for temperamental Spanish men and women, but also for all guests who are in love with this beautiful country and are interested in fashion.

Please note the store opening hours. The famous Spanish siesta begins at one o'clock in the afternoon and lasts until four o'clock in the afternoon. For the Spaniards, this is not just a tradition, but a way of life that has remained unchanged for several centuries. At this time, the working mechanism of Spanish cities freezes in a peaceful pause, inviting everyone into their world of calm and joyful communication. Most government agencies, banks and, of course, shops and shopping centers are closed for a three-hour break. The only place in Spain where the vibrant atmosphere of active life does not allow you to turn off the process of movement even for a siesta is the Sierra Nevada.

The usual opening hours for Spanish stores are: 9:00-13:00, siesta break, then 16:00-20:00. The exception is some large markets that operate without interruption.

Days of sales and discounts in Spain occur twice a year - from the beginning of the year to March and from the middle of the summer season to September. The most attractive cities for fashionistas and fashionistas are Barcelona and Madrid with entire complexes of the largest outlets. The Madrid quarter, located in the historical part of the city - Argüells, is widely known, as well as the Sol and Preciados shopping centers, where you can find any souvenirs, fashionable clothes, wedding dresses from the latest collections of leading designers.

In Barcelona, ​​getting to the most remote shopping centers is not difficult. Here, for shopping lovers, a special route has been launched, including the most popular stores - the Barcelona Shopping Line. Funny blue buses take everyone along a specific route at short intervals throughout the day. The ticket price is 10 euros, and the duration of the trip is unlimited.

In order not to get lost in this whirlpool of shopping diversity, the Spaniards offer to purchase a reference guide “Shopping Guide in Barcelona”, which is sold in all print kiosks and bookstores.

Spain is a very beautiful and hospitable country. Green hills and flowering fields, vineyards and orange groves, beautiful beaches and clear seas attract lovers of nature and beach holidays. For lovers of history and culture, Spain opens the gates of its unforgettable cities, opens the doors of world-famous museums, and shows its most interesting corners. It will not leave indifferent gourmets and connoisseurs of fine wines, fans of shopping and lovers of noisy discos and nightclubs.

Madrid

The capital of Spain is Madrid. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that the city does not have its own architectural symbol; it itself is a symbol of Spain, built in the 16th century. by King Philip II, who no longer had enough space in the former capital of Toledo.

Madrid is full of architectural monuments of various eras and styles, attractions, museums with priceless exhibits, beautiful gardens and parks, noisy markets and colorful Spanish streets.

The most beautiful place in Madrid can easily be called the architectural ensemble of the Royal Palace in the Baroque style, which served as the home of the royal dynasty until 1931.

Another popular place is the Cathedral of San Isidro, built in honor of the patron saint of Madrid, Saint Isidore. In addition to this temple, the capital has many beautiful churches, cathedrals, mosques for representatives of other faiths.

Madrid is home to one of the most famous museums in the world, the Prado National Museum of Painting and Sculpture. Its collection is based on the collections of three kings of Spain from the Habsburg dynasty - Charles I, Philip I and Philip II. All exhibits were kept in the Royal Palace of El Escorial until King Charles III ordered the creation of a public museum in Prado Park in 1814. Currently, the Prado collection includes more than 9,000 exhibits, including world-famous paintings and ancient sculptures.

Toledo

Toledo is the former capital of Spain. This place weaves together the history and culture of Christianity, Islam and Judaism, which is clearly reflected in its architecture and attractions. In 1986, the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Toledo Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is one of the largest in the world, with a 90-meter-high bell tower visible from anywhere in the city. Another famous religious building in the city is the Toledo Mosque, which was built by several generations of Arabs living in Spain.

The heart of Toledo - the Alcazar fortress or royal palace - was rebuilt several times throughout its history, so its facades represent a bizarre mixture of architectural styles.

Seville

The second name of Seville is the Orange Grove. The streets and parks of the city are lined with orange trees, and the city itself is surrounded by orange orchards. In spring, the air of Seville is filled with the delightful aromas of blooming citrus fruits.

One of the most remarkable buildings in the city is the Seville Cathedral, built on the site of an ancient Moorish mosque from the 12th century. After the expulsion of the Moors, the mosque was destroyed, but its minaret was so beautiful that it was preserved and converted into the bell tower of the new cathedral, the third largest in Europe. 500 years ago, the dome of the minaret, destroyed by an earthquake, was replaced with a weather vane, which gave the name to the entire tower - La Giralda.

Seville also inherited from the Moors a beautiful garden and park complex, part of the ensemble of the Royal Palace. The palace was rebuilt in the 14th century, but the Moorish style of the place was preserved, and the ruling Spanish dynasties have used it as one of their official residences for 700 years.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a real pearl of Spain, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean of 7 large and 6 small uninhabited islands. The largest and most popular islands among tourists are Tenerife, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria. The sunny beaches of the Canary Islands attract lovers of sea holidays and nightlife.

The islands are famous for their banana plantations, laurel forests and beautiful landscapes adorned with blooming hibiscus, prickly pear and strelitzia.

Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are another popular holiday destination in Spain. The three large islands of the archipelago - Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca - are known throughout the world. Each of them, in addition to the excellent opportunity to relax on magnificent beaches and swim in the clean and warm water of the Mediterranean Sea, attracts guests of the country with its own characteristics.

Mallorca has a beautiful city, the capital of 5 islands - Palma de Mallorca, boasting its Bellver Castle. In the east of the island you can also admire landscapes untouched by civilization.

Ibiza is known around the world as the capital of clubbing culture, with its noisy and luxurious nightlife in clubs and outdoors attracting many celebrities.

Menorca can rightfully be called a museum island thanks to the large number of architectural and archaeological monuments, statues and open-air sculptures, crypts with burials. The most mysterious prehistoric monument is considered to be Thauls - towers of T-shaped stones lying on top of each other, the purpose of which has not yet been solved.

Botanical Garden MariMurtra in Blanes

One of the most beautiful places in Spain is the Botanical Garden of the Sea and Myrtle or Marimurtra in the coastal city of Blanes. Its territory represents three geographical zones - the Mediterranean, subtropics and temperate zone.

The uniqueness of the Marimurtra Botanical Garden is that it is located on the rocks, which offer breathtaking views of the Costa Brava. The seascape is framed by magnificent flowering plants, which is why Marimurtra is considered one of the most beautiful places not only in Spain, but also in the world.

Alhambra

The Alhambra, a magnificent Arabic-style palace in Granada, is a uniquely beautiful place that has given inspiration to many world-famous artists and writers. This citadel was built in 1238 by the Moors, who made Granada the capital of Islamic Spain.

The vast Alhambra palace complex, built on the wooded Sabica Hill, is beautifully set off by the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada. This place is, in fact, a whole city with gardens, pavilions, fountains, ponds, a palace ensemble and a small medina (residential area).

Features of the palace's decor are plaster carvings - an openwork pattern in the form of Arabic script, as well as zillis - glazed colorful ceramic tiles, which are used to create complex designs on the building's base.

The Lion's Courtyard is a world masterpiece of architecture, the most beautiful place in the Alhambra. This is a fountain in the form of a bowl on the backs of 12 marble lions, located in the center of arcaded galleries with graceful columns.

Every year it becomes more and more popular among Russians. 1 million tourists from Russia visited this sunny country in 2012. How can you see and experience all the most interesting things that such a country rich in traditions and culture offers? " " offers its TOP 10 list of things a Russian should definitely do in Spain:

1. Come to Barcelona.

Be sure to see with your own eyes the architectural riot of Gaudi's ideas and the superb flight of fantasy of Dali. When Gaudí declared war on straight lines, he produced his unmistakable style. His thinking was ahead not only of his time, but also of ours. In a word - genius. Although, even without Gaudi, there would be something to see and do... The port city, buried in palm trees, breathes optimism and love for life.

2. Experience the history of Spain in the Alhambra

This masterpiece architectural ensemble in Granada, consisting of a powerful fortress, royal palace and gardens, is one of the ten most visited attractions in Spain. For a long time, Granada was the capital of Muslim possessions on the Iberian Peninsula, and the Alhambra was their government seat. The main part of the history of Spain is the saga of the struggle of Christians with the Moors. it is the culmination of this story, the last Moorish bastion. It is better to plan a visit to the Alhambra in advance, and the best time to visit Granada is in winter.

3. Watch Real Madrid or Barcelona play live

Two of the richest football clubs in the world play in the same league here. You can go to a Real Madrid match at the Santiago Bernabeo or watch Messi play at the Camp Nou. You'll be very lucky if you get a ticket to the real El Classico and see Ronaldo play against Messi and Neymar combined.

4.Pay tribute to Spanish bullfighting

One can argue as much as one wants about the long-standing Spanish tradition of making a spectacle out of the killing of animals. The authorities have already banned bullfighting, and in Mallorca the show is on the verge of being banned, so you should hurry, because in a few years bullfighting may completely disappear! Before the start of the fight, if you are lucky, you can approach the matador and pat him on the shoulder. These guys exude animal fear, strength and gigantic tension. And this is not just a show, but real strong emotions that these guys somehow learned to overcome.

5. Ride the highest and fastest roller coaster in Europe

In the largest and most interesting amusement park in PortAventura, children can feel grown up and brave, and adults can return to childhood again.
Better think twice or even three times whether you can survive a fall at a speed of 134 km per hour on the Shambhala slide. If you are not sure, then choose a train ride around the park - this is for you.

6. Have a whole week in Ibiza

Spend all night long at the most popular discos in Europe - Pacha and Amnesia, and watch the sunset at the tables in the legendary Cafe del Mar. Don't forget that the hottest disco season is July and August.

7. Come to the warm Canaries in winter and climb the Teide volcano.

In winter it is a real paradise!!! You can sunbathe all day on the beaches, or you can rent a car and find yourself in a “Martian environment” on the slopes of the Teide volcano.

8. Find yourself in Spain and Africa at the same time!!!

Buy a ferry ticket from Malaga to Melilla or from Algeciras to Ceuta. There's not much to see in these enclave towns, but the fact that you've been to Africa without leaving Spain is worth the trip!

9.Ride the slopes of the Sierra Nevada on a snowboard.

Eat sunny in winter. Rent a snowboard or skis at the Sierra Nevada ski resorts, and after a couple of hours drive to the warm beaches of the Costa del Sol and swim in the Mediterranean Sea.

10. Take a kite surfing course at the most popular spot in Europe.

Among kitesurfers and windsurfers in Europe, Tarifa is considered a cult place. After one day spent on its beaches surrounded by hundreds of kites, you should definitely plunge into the vibrant nightlife of the town. Most importantly, do not forget that Tarifa lives an active and cheerful life only in the hottest months of summer.

The more a person reads, the more interesting it is for him to travel to different countries. Spain is the country of Cervantes, Hemingway wrote a lot about it, there was once a bloody civil war there, but you never know what else is known about it, and all this is very fascinating. However, when coming here, many are disappointed. Spanish life, it turns out, is not only about serenades for beautiful ladies, bullfights and flamenco. It would be more accurate to say that there are not so many local exotics.

What to see in Spain?

In fact, Spain has everything you need to forget about everything else, at least for a while. The country is famous for its unique architecture, beautiful beaches, excellent cuisine and much more that you cannot find anywhere else. You just need to know where and what you can try, see and feel in order to make your trip memorable forever. Yes, this takes time and, of course, a certain amount of banknotes. But it's worth it, honestly. And then there won’t even be any questions about what to do in Spain. Below are options for interesting pastimes, not only in Madrid or Seville, but also in many other places. We believe that there are 28 of them, but this is a very approximate figure. In fact, there are many more attractions.

So, it's worth a visit...

For architecture lovers

The Alhambra Palace in Granada, which can rather be called a fortress with magnificent gardens, built in the tradition of Moorish architecture. You just need to remember that tickets here must be purchased in advance.

The Giralda Tower of Seville Cathedral is worth climbing, although it is quite high. From here you have an incredible view of the city. This is the greatest Gothic cathedral in the world.

The arcade of the Great Mosque of Cordoba, which serves as both a cathedral and a mosque. This creation is considered (rightfully) the best example of Moorish architecture in the whole world.

Public Park Guell in Barcelona. Here you can admire the unique mosaics, gardens and architectural monuments created by the great Antoni Gaudi.

The Marvel Aqueduct in Segovia, built by the Romans. It is one of the few well-preserved ancient monuments on the Iberian Peninsula.

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Another Gaudí masterpiece with stunning towers and stained glass windows.

Alcazar in Seville, the oldest royal palace in Europe, and a functioning one. Intricate fourteenth-century Moorish architecture from the time of Islamic rule.

Palau de la Musica Catalana in Barcelona, ​​a colorful concert hall listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and described as "an architectural jewel of Catalan Art Nouveau". The concerts here are unforgettable.

Zahara de la Sierra, municipality in the province of Cadiz. Picturesque white houses are located at the foot of the Andalusian mountains. There's a lot to see.

Gourmets

Tapas restaurant, any, they are all good here. For reference, tapas is a small plate on which various local delicacies are laid out, from olives to ham and seafood. Delicious!

Eat paella. This flavorful dish is made with seafood and rice. It has been known in Valencia for many centuries.

Taste the best ham in the world. Iberico, serrano and other types of jamon produced in Spain are famous throughout the world. You can try them just like that, biting off a slice, or as a sandwich on a slightly heated baguette.

Street cafes on the main square of Madrid, Plaza Mayor. What can I add here?

Galicia is in North-West Spain. Here you can treat yourself to fresh seafood, octopus, for example.

For fans and athletes

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to watch Real Madrid play. Especially if a real football fan comes to Spain.

Ski slopes on the snowy slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Andalusia, the province of Granada and Almeria.

Bullfights in Pamplona. This is not for everybody.

Parks and museums

Dali Museum in Figueres (Catalonia). It’s interesting just to see where this unusual artist lived, and most of his paintings are exhibited here. The ashes of Salvador Dali rest right under the feet of the guests, but where exactly is a mystery.

The Prado National Museum of Art in Madrid, founded in 1819, contains one of the finest collections of European art in the world. Spending a few hours here is too little, but still better than nothing.

Buen Retiro, a park, one of the largest and oldest in Madrid, with fifteen thousand trees - it is 400 years old. There is a crystal palace (all glass) built in 1887 for Philippine flowers.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which displays contemporary art. However, the building itself, created by the American-Canadian architect Frank Gehry, is also impressive.

Port Aventura, the largest theme park, located in the city of Salou (south of Barcelona). Roller coasters in Spain are truly exotic!

And to everyone!

Famous clubs in Ibiza. Here you can dance the night away and not even notice how time has passed. There are many similar entertainments on the Balearic Islands, and very close to the wonderful Mediterranean beaches.

White sandy beaches of the Costa del Sol, in the Andalusia region. Well, it’s clear why - to swim and sunbathe, and at the same time admire the views.

In the city of Buñol in Valencia. La Tomatina tomato fights take place as part of annual mass festivals in the month of August.

Mount Montserrat, all as if consisting of stone pillars created by the forces of nature - rain, frost and wind. It's only 30 miles from Barcelona, ​​but it's worth setting aside a full day for the trip. In addition, you can stay overnight in a real Benedictine monastery located in the rocks.

El Rastro flea market in Madrid, it is open every Sunday. What's missing here!

Watch flamenco performers perform in Seville. Beautiful costumes, mesmerizing dance steps and exciting guitar music.