Spain

Spain is a sun-kissed country with a dazzling coastline, charming cities and exquisite gastronomy.

What to visit:

• Barcelona is an amazing city that combines incompatible architectural monuments belonging to different eras and different architectural styles.
• Andalusia is a less visited region with beautiful landscapes, endangered animals and a rich history of seafaring - in 1492 Columbus set sail from here in search of the New World.
• Palma - the capital of the Balearic Islands, is located around a charming bay and is a "shopaholic's dream", attracting them with numerous designer shops and boutiques.
• Cape Formentor is the northernmost point of the island of Majorca, an amazing place that combines a magical view of unspoiled nature, sea spaces and majestic cliffs reaching for the sky.
• Teide volcano (on the island of Tenerife) - translated means "snow mountain", located in the very center of the island, and impresses with its size and grandeur. At the very foot of the volcano, you can see the famous lunar landscape, which has become one of the symbols of Tenerife.

Need to know:

Visa: Schengen

Currency: Euro

State capital: Madrid

Time in the country: GMT +2 / UTC +1

Spain - officially the Kingdom of Spain - a state in the southwest of Europe and partly in Africa, which occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula (80%), as well as the Canary and Balearic Islands, has a total area of 504,782 km, being the fourth largest country in Europe.

The capital of the state is Madrid

The language is Spanish

Currency - Euro

Religion - the majority of the population professes Christianity and belongs to the Roman Catholic Church (75%)

Climate - Spain is one of the warmest countries in Southern Europe. The average number of sunny days is 260–285. The average annual temperature of the Mediterranean coast is +20 °C. In winter, the temperature drops below zero, usually only in the central and northern regions of the country. In summer, the temperature rises to +40 ° C and from (from the central part to the southern coast). On the northern coast, the temperature is not so high - about +25 °C.

The time is GMT +2 / UTC +1

Schengen visa

Cuisine - in Spain there is a real cult of food, many restaurants and snack-taverns offer to join the cuisine and wines of Spain. The national gastronomic culture of tapeo and its strongholds - tapas bars - deserve special attention. For Spaniards, it is not only a way to eat and drink, but a lifestyle and the process of communicating with friends. The most famous Spanish dish is paella (pilaf with seafood), you should also try "jamon" - raw pork. Fish and seafood dishes are very common. As for alcohol, the Catalan white wines "Penedes" and "Ampurdan" are popular, sherry from the city of Jerez de la Frontera in the southwest of Andalusia is considered the pride of the country, and in the Canary Islands, excellent semi-sweet wine "Malvazia" is made from Lanzarote grapes. Another "alcoholic symbol" of Spain, sangria, is made on the basis of ordinary semi-sweet red wine or red carbonated "coffee", adding ice and chopped fruits to the wine.

Catalonia is a region in northeastern Spain, known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some tips for a trip to Catalonia:

Visit Barcelona: Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Explore the Gothic Quarter, visit the Sagrada Familia, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Go to the beach: Catalonia has a beautiful coastline with several beaches to choose from. Costa Brava is one of the most popular ones, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.

Visit the medieval towns: Catalonia has several charming medieval towns with cobbled streets, old castles, and churches. Girona, Tarragona, and Besalu are some of the most popular ones.

Try the local cuisine: Catalonia is known for its delicious food, with a variety of traditional dishes to try. Be sure to try the paella, fideua, and the crema catalana.

Go hiking: Catalonia has several natural parks and hiking trails, offering stunning views of the mountains and forests. Montserrat Natural Park and Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park are two of the most popular ones.

Visit the vineyards: Catalonia is famous for its wine production, with several vineyards to visit. The Penedes region is known for its cava production, and the Priorat region produces some of the finest red wines in Spain.

Explore the art scene: Catalonia has a rich artistic heritage, with several museums and galleries to explore. The Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres and the Picasso Museum in Barcelona are two of the most popular ones.

Attend a festival: Catalonia has several festivals throughout the year, celebrating the region's culture and traditions. The La Merce Festival in Barcelona and the Festa Major de Gracia in Barcelona are two of the most popular ones.

Valencia is a beautiful city located on the eastern coast of Spain, known for its stunning beaches, modern architecture, and delicious food. Here are some tips for a trip to Valencia:

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences: This futuristic complex is a must-see in Valencia. It features several buildings dedicated to science, art, and culture, including an aquarium, a planetarium, and an opera house.

Explore the historic center: Valencia's old town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Valencia and the Plaza de la Virgen. Walk around the cobbled streets, visit the markets and cafes, and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Go to the beach: Valencia has several beautiful beaches, including Malvarrosa, Las Arenas, and El Saler. Spend a day relaxing on the sandy beaches, swimming in the sea, and enjoying the sun.

Try the local cuisine: Valencia is known for its delicious food, with a variety of traditional dishes to try. Be sure to try the paella, horchata, and the bunuelos.

Visit the Turia Gardens: The Turia River used to run through the city, but it was diverted after a flood. The dry riverbed was turned into a beautiful park with gardens, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

Attend a festival: Valencia has several festivals throughout the year, celebrating the city's culture and traditions. The Fallas Festival in March is the most famous one, featuring impressive sculptures, fireworks, and parades.

Visit the Albufera Natural Park: This natural park is located just outside of Valencia and features a beautiful lagoon and wetlands. Take a boat ride, go bird watching, and enjoy the natural beauty.

Visit the Central Market: The Central Market is one of the oldest markets in Europe, featuring a variety of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and cheeses. It's a great place to explore and taste the local products.

Andalusia is a beautiful region in southern Spain, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and flamenco dancing. Here are some tips for a trip to Andalusia:

Visit Seville: Seville is the capital city of Andalusia and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Visit the Cathedral of Seville, the Alcazar, and the Plaza de Espana. Don't forget to try the tapas and enjoy the flamenco shows.

Explore Granada: Granada is home to the famous Alhambra palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a must-see when visiting Andalusia. Walk around the historic Albayzin neighborhood, enjoy the local food and drink, and experience the flamenco dancing.

Visit Cordoba: Cordoba is a charming city, known for its stunning mosque-cathedral, the Mezquita, which is one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Walk around the Jewish Quarter, and visit the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs.

Go to the beach: Andalusia has several beautiful beaches along the Costa del Sol and the Costa de la Luz, such as Marbella, Nerja, and Tarifa. Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.

Try the local cuisine: Andalusia has a rich culinary tradition, with several delicious dishes to try, such as gazpacho, salmorejo, pescaito frito, and migas. Don't forget to try the local wines, such as sherry and Rioja.

Attend a festival: Andalusia has several festivals throughout the year, celebrating the region's culture and traditions. The Feria de Abril in Seville and the Carnival of Cadiz are two of the most popular ones.

Visit the Sierra Nevada: The Sierra Nevada mountain range is located in Andalusia and offers stunning views, hiking trails, and winter sports. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities during the winter months.

Walk around the white villages: Andalusia is known for its charming white villages, such as Ronda, Mijas, and Frigiliana. These villages are full of history and culture, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Galicia is a beautiful region in the northwestern part of Spain, known for its stunning coastline, green landscapes, delicious seafood, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some tips for a trip to Galicia:

Visit Santiago de Compostela: Santiago de Compostela is the capital city of Galicia and the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, walk around the old town, and enjoy the local food and wine.

Explore the Rias Baixas: The Rias Baixas are a series of estuaries along the coast of Galicia, famous for their beautiful beaches, seafood, and wine. Visit the picturesque fishing villages, such as Cambados and Combarro, and taste the local Albarino wine.

Visit the Cies Islands: The Cies Islands are a group of three islands off the coast of Galicia, known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. The islands are a protected natural park, and visitors need to obtain a permit to visit.

Walk the Camino de Santiago: The Camino de Santiago is a famous pilgrimage route that crosses Galicia and ends in Santiago de Compostela. Walking the Camino is a great way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Galicia.

Try the local cuisine: Galicia is known for its delicious seafood, such as octopus, clams, and mussels, as well as its hearty stews, such as caldo gallego and lacon con grelos. Don't forget to try the local wine, such as Albarino and Ribeiro.

Visit the Costa da Morte: The Costa da Morte, or the Coast of Death, is a rugged and wild stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, famous for its shipwrecks and legends. Visit the lighthouses, such as the one in Finisterre, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Attend a festival: Galicia has several festivals throughout the year, celebrating the region's culture and traditions. The Carnival of Verin and the Festa da Auga in Vilagarcia de Arousa are two of the most popular ones.

Visit the Celtic heritage sites: Galicia has a rich Celtic heritage, with several ancient sites to visit, such as the Castro de Barona and the Hill Fort of San Cibrao de Las. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's pre-Roman history and culture.

Madrid is the capital city of Spain and one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Europe. Here are some tips for a trip to Madrid:

Visit the museums: Madrid is home to several world-renowned museums, such as the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. These museums are a must-visit for art lovers.

Walk around the historic center: The historic center of Madrid is full of beautiful architecture, charming streets, and lively plazas. Walk around the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Via, and enjoy the local food and drink.

Enjoy the parks: Madrid has several beautiful parks, such as Retiro Park and Casa de Campo, which offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Rent a boat, have a picnic, or simply relax in the shade.

Watch a football game: Madrid is home to two of the most famous football clubs in the world, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. Watching a football game at the Santiago Bernabeu or the Wanda Metropolitano stadium is a must-do for sports fans.

Try the local cuisine: Madrid has a rich culinary tradition, with several delicious dishes to try, such as cocido madrileno, bocadillo de calamares, and churros con chocolate. Don't forget to try the local wines, such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero.

Attend a flamenco show: Flamenco is an important part of Spanish culture, and Madrid has several flamenco venues where you can enjoy a live show. Casa Patas and Corral de la Moreria are two of the most famous ones.

Visit the Royal Palace: The Royal Palace of Madrid is a beautiful building, with stunning rooms and gardens, and a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. Don't forget to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Go shopping: Madrid is a shopper's paradise, with several shopping districts, such as Gran Via, Calle Fuencarral, and Salamanca, where you can find everything from high-end fashion to local crafts and souvenirs.

The Basque Country is a beautiful region that spans across the northern coast of Spain and southwestern France. Here are some ideas for your trip:

Start in Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country. Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, which features modern and contemporary art, as well as the historic Old Town (Casco Viejo) with its narrow streets and traditional architecture.

Take a day trip to San Sebastian, a stunning seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and world-class cuisine. Make sure to try some pintxos (Basque tapas) at one of the many bars in the Old Town.

Explore the coastal villages of the Basque Country, such as Getaria, Zarautz, and Hondarribia. These picturesque towns offer stunning views of the Bay of Biscay and are known for their seafood restaurants.

Visit the charming town of Guernica, which was famously bombed during the Spanish Civil War. Today, it is a symbol of Basque resistance and is home to the Assembly House and Tree, where the Basque parliament meets.

Take a hike in the Pyrenees Mountains, which form the natural border between Spain and France. The stunning landscapes of the Pyrenees are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and offer hiking trails for all levels.

Visit the Rioja Alavesa wine region, which produces some of Spain's most famous wines. Take a guided tour of the vineyards and wineries and sample some of the local vintages.

Learn about Basque culture and history by visiting the Gernika Peace Museum, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, and the San Telmo Museum in San Sebastian.

Attend a Basque festival or celebration, such as the San Fermin Festival in Pamplona or the Semana Grande Festival in Bilbao. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience Basque culture firsthand.

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain. Here are some ideas for your trip:

Visit the capital city of Palma de Mallorca, which is home to the iconic Gothic-style Cathedral of Santa Maria and the historic Bellver Castle. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) and visit the many museums and art galleries.

Relax on one of the many beautiful beaches of Mallorca, such as Playa de Palma, Cala Major, or Cala Millor. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, and indulge in water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Take a boat trip to explore the many coves and bays around the island. There are many companies offering guided boat tours, and you can also rent your own boat or yacht for the day.

Explore the stunning Tramuntana Mountains, which form the backdrop of Mallorca's western coast. The mountains offer some of the island's most beautiful scenery and hiking trails, including the famous GR221 hiking route.

Visit the charming towns and villages of Mallorca, such as Deia, Valldemossa, and Soller. These picturesque towns offer a glimpse into Mallorca's rich history and culture, with traditional architecture, local markets, and delicious cuisine.

Discover the island's rich cultural heritage by visiting the many museums and art galleries, such as the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro.

Enjoy the nightlife in the many bars, clubs, and restaurants in Palma de Mallorca and the other towns on the island. The island is famous for its vibrant party scene, and there are many options for all tastes and budgets.

Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and stunning scenery. Here are some ideas for your trip:

Visit Ibiza Town (Eivissa), the capital city of the island, which is home to the historic Dalt Vila (Old Town) with its ancient walls, narrow streets, and stunning views of the sea. Explore the many museums, art galleries, and shops, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

Relax on the many beautiful beaches of Ibiza, such as Playa d'en Bossa, Cala Comte, or Cala Salada. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and indulge in water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.

Take a boat trip to explore the many coves and bays around the island. There are many companies offering guided boat tours, and you can also rent your own boat or yacht for the day.

Explore the stunning countryside of Ibiza, which is home to many rural villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Take a bike ride or a hike along the many trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Discover the island's rich cultural heritage by visiting the many museums and art galleries, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Archaeological Museum. Ibiza is also home to many cultural events and festivals, such as the Ibiza Medieval Fair and the Ibiza International Film Festival.

Enjoy the nightlife in the many bars, clubs, and restaurants in Ibiza. The island is famous for its vibrant party scene, and there are many options for all tastes and budgets.

Take a day trip to Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic Islands, which is known for its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters. It can be reached by ferry from Ibiza Town.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa but belonging to Spain. It's known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural scenery. Here are some ideas for your trip:

Visit the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which is home to many historic buildings, museums, and art galleries. Stroll along the pedestrian streets, visit the bustling markets, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

Relax on the many beautiful beaches of Tenerife, such as Playa de las Teresitas, Playa del Duque, or Playa de las Vistas. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and indulge in water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.

Explore the stunning natural scenery of Tenerife, which is home to many national parks, forests, and volcanoes. Take a cable car to the top of Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the island.

Discover the island's rich cultural heritage by visiting the many museums and art galleries, such as the Museum of Nature and Man or the Museum of Fine Arts. Tenerife is also home to many cultural events and festivals, such as the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, one of the largest carnivals in the world.

Enjoy the nightlife in the many bars, clubs, and restaurants in Tenerife. The island is famous for its vibrant party scene, and there are many options for all tastes and budgets.

Take a boat trip to explore the many coves and bays around the island. There are many companies offering guided boat tours, and you can also rent your own boat or yacht for the day.

Visit the charming towns and villages of Tenerife, such as La Orotava, Garachico, or Masca. These picturesque towns offer a glimpse into Tenerife's rich history and culture, with traditional architecture, local markets, and delicious cuisine.