Spain Hotels

Spain is a diverse and interesting destination for travelers, whether you visit wine-producing regions along the country's northern border with France, its bustling capital Madrid, bohemian Granada in the south of the country, party islands like Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca, or cosmopolitan Barcelona and its surrounding Catalonia province. Wherever you wish to go, keep your ideal itinerary in mind when deciding upon the best way to reach Spain.

The European coach (or bus) network is extensive, especially among European Union member nations. It is possible to catch a bus from most locations in Western Europe to Spain, with trips taking anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Most long-distance buses in Europe are operated by Eurolines, a conglomeration of various national bus companies, including Spain's Alsa and Movelia bus companies. These companies offer travel to Spain by coach from 16 European nations, including Poland, Czech Republic and the Ukraine.

Valencia is both a region and a city in Spain. The area is famous for its oranges; and due to its location on the Mediterranean coastline, is a popular tourist destination. Valencia's long history dates back at least to 138 B.C. The city was conquered by a number of invaders, including the Romans, and the city was under Muslim rule for more than 500 years. Today the city features a wide range of galleries and museums as well as a number of fine dining establishments. The area is easy to travel to, as it is well connected to the rest of Spain and Europe via rail, air and road.

From the bright, but tart, fruit hanging from its many orange trees to the blend of cultures and religions evident in its architecture, Sevilla has good reason to appear on the itineraries of many tour groups traveling through southern Spain. Whether you're looking for a guided city tour, a group tour through the region, or you're leading a private group around the city, Sevilla has many sights to explore.

Sicily is the island at the tip of Italy's "boot" and is only about 50 miles off the coast of North Africa. Travel options to Sicily from outside of Italy can be limited; most of the travel to and from the island occurs from major cities in Italy such as Milan, Rome, Genoa and Naples. Barcelona, on the eastern coast of Spain, is a convenient starting point for travel to Sicily, as it is a major travel hub and optimally located for a variety of transportation options to Italy. U.S. citizens will not need a visa to get into Spain or Italy, you will only need a valid passport.

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain. Situated along the Mediterranean Sea, this charming metropolis functions as the hub for Spain's Costa Blanca. The Costa Blanca region attracts tourists with its posh resorts and pristine beaches, but travelers should also spend some time in the city of Valencia itself. Valencia has transformed through the centuries from a thriving medieval town into a cosmopolitan city with a character and dialect all its own.

Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea in southern Europe, Spain offers a host of attractions and experiences for travelers. Planning a trip to Spain in April allows you to enjoy the country's nice spring weather and the chance to take advantage of few crowds, notes the Frommer's website.

There's only one place in the world where you can go to wake up early for a week and be chased, daily, through narrow streets by angry, one-ton animals that might well trample or gore you without a second glance. This place: Pamplona, Spain. Pamplona is home each summer to the San Fermin Festival and its Running of the Bulls.

With its close proximity to the rest of Europe, the UK is perfectly placed for trips to the continent. Spain is a popular destination from the island; according to the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office, around 13 million Britons travel to Spain every year. Home to beautiful landscapes, sandy beaches and distinct culture, Spain shares a land border with France, which makes it accessible by land from the continent. Travelers from the UK can access Spain by air, boat or motor vehicle.

Cadiz is an old city on the southwest coast of Spain and the main base of the Spanish Armada of the 16th century. It is on a spit of land between the mainland and the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the Strait of Gibraltar. The nearest major city is Seville (Sevilla in Spanish) and nearly all land travel to Cadiz passes through the larger city. Despite Cadiz's location on the coast it is difficult to reach by public boat or ferry; most ferries go to ports on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Most travelers arrive in Cadiz by bus, train or car.

Solo travelers to Spain should take the same precautions as when traveling anywhere else in the world, but it is a safe country for men and women traveling alone. Hotels generally give a price break for single-occupancy rooms, and public transportation represents a good value and convenience. Taking a study break or day tours in Spain allow solo travelers to remain independent while still having a chance to spend some time with others.

Spain is among the southernmost countries in continental Europe, with its coastline enjoying the moderating benefits of both the Gulf Stream on its western, Atlantic seaboard, and the Mediterranean Sea. Still, portions of the country's interior rise to high elevations, so weather in December varies widely from one location to another. If you plan to visit Spain in December, keep weather and other considerations in mind before departing and during your trip.

Spain's climate and culture draw tourists from around the world who are looking to luxuriate in its relaxed Latin atmosphere. To fully enjoy the country's spirit, you don't have to invest in a cushy hotel room or eat your tapas over white tablecloths. Opt for creative alternatives that allow you to connect with the rustic, no-frills side of Spain.

Spain is one of Europe's most popular travel destinations, known for its Moorish and Gothic architecture as well as its party culture and bullfighting traditions. Vacationers and students looking to study abroad choose Spain because of these attractive cultural elements and for the warm Mediterranean climate and lovely natural scenery.

A beach town, thriving port and sun-drenched hub of the Costa Blanca, Spain, Alicante has much to offer visitors. By day, sunbathers relax on Playa Postiguet, blocks from the city center. At night, Alicante rocks with the rhythms of a club scene on par with nearby Ibiza and Mallorca. Visitors can travel to Alicante -- a modern city that's the second-largest in the Valencia region -- by air, train, bus and boat.

By last count, some 60 million foreign tourists visited Spain in the span of a year. Though crowds have driven up prices on the Iberian peninsula, Spain remains one of Western Europe’s more affordable destinations. Spain-bound travelers on a fixed budget can get by on a bare minimum of $32 to $45 per day, while a mid-level daily allotment including a modest hotel room, sandwich, dinner in a restaurant, drinks and a museum or two should run about $120.

Toledo was the former royal capital of Spain and is located a short distance from the current capital, Madrid. While Spain is known for its sunshine, Toledo can be excessively hot during the summer, especially July and August. Because of its proximity to Madrid, the city is remarkably easy to get to, with a range of transportation options to suit most budgets. Travelers can take trains, buses or cars to Toledo from Madrid and can easily get there from most other locations on the Iberian Peninsula.

A prime tourist destination in southern Spain, the Costa Del Sol encompasses 100 miles of serene beaches along the waters of the Mediterranean. Nerja, a relatively small coastal town, lies on the eastern boundary of this region and reflects the quiet history of a fishing village for the majority of the year, populated with locals, ex-pats and retirees. The summer months find Nerja brimming with sightseers seeking out the shoreline and attractions of the town.

Featuring diverse topography and habitats, Spain is a prime destination for birdwatchers. Whether scouting on your own or hooking up with a guided birding tour, you have the chance of seeing some of Europe's rarest birds -- such as the Spanish imperial eagle -- in the context of scenic, rugged country.

Every year, more than 50 million people visit Spain, which has the second-most United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites of any country. Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain was part of the Roman empire until the Muslim invasion of 711. In the 15th century, the Reconquest reestablished Christian rule. This storied past has left a tangible multicultural heritage that makes Spain a world-famous tourist destination.

Spain’s weather is as varied as the different cultures found across the country, with a number of different climactic elements at play. People tend to think of Spain as an endlessly mild and sunny spot, and while there is plenty of sunshine, there can also be freezing temperatures and scorching heat waves, especially inland.

Murcia is a popular destination for travelers. From Costa Calida, “The Warm Coast,” that boasts 3,000 hours of sunshine annually to its mountains and small towns, Murcia gives tourists a country escape and a beach vacation. Those looking for sporting activities can visit Murcia’s La Manga club, which is a sports and leisure resort. Visitors have plenty of options for renting villas. They can rent straight from the villa owner or book through one of the numerous villa-letting sites online.

Bringing a pet into Spain may seem intimidating at first, but in fact there are many organizations set up to assist you in your move. To bring an animal into Spain from a non-European Union (EU) country, the animal must have an International Vaccination Health Certificate – or else must be kept in quarantine once it arrives. A good pet courier service can help you get all of the required paperwork, and can take care of every step of the transportation of your pet, making sure it is safe and comfortable.

From simple cave drawings to the vibrant, kaleidoscopic images of 21st century surrealist Juan Antonio Guirado, art continues to flourish in Spain. Discover paintings, along with sculptures, frescos, murals and other art forms within Spain’s museums, galleries and private collections. The country’s palaces, cathedrals and mosques also embody artistic significance, within and externally. Explore a particular region to understand a specific artistic approach. Take self-guided or escorted tours in local Spanish museums and UNESCO heritage sites to gain insight and examine the art in Spain in-depth.

With almost 5,000 miles of coastline to explore and more than 320 marinas, Spain is a sailor's paradise. Picture captaining your own boat through the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean sea, stopping at pristine beaches along your way in the Balearic Islands, or sailing the challenging course used in America's Cup in Valencia, Spain. Sail where the locals vacation in the northern Galicia region or combine sailing with cultural attractions in vibrant Barcelona. Whether you are a novice sailor or an experienced expert, with a little planning, you can find a chartered sailboat or sailing yacht in your price range at your desired destination.

Tarragona, the southernmost province in Catalonia, Spain, sits on the Costa Dorado along the Mediterranean Sea. The UNESCO World Heritage Centre lists Tarragona as a heritage site because it served as a major merchant center in Roman Spain. Sightseeing in the region consists of ancient archaeological sites and historic structures that combine Romanesque, Arabic and Gothic architecture. Tarragona features cathedrals and convents, some of which date back to the 15th century.

Northern Spain stands atop the short list of viable European surf destinations, according to the Guardian UK. Quality surf zones may be few and far between in Europe, but the northern region of Spain offers surfers a surprisingly decent collection of hidden gems along its rocky coastline. From the Atlantic Ocean bordering the province of Galicia to the Bay of Biscay hemming in Asturias and Basque Country, Spain's northern surfing mecca continues to attract visitors with its challenging waves and scenic geography.

Citizens of the United States may visit Spain on tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. Those staying longer or studying in Spain require visas. Some of the requirements for obtaining a national visa take up to 15 weeks to complete. For this reason, begin the visa process immediately when anticipating a stay of over three months or for the purpose of study. There is no rush or expedited service for the longest segment of the process, so begin at once.

Benidorm, or Benedorm, is located in the Costa Blanca region of Spain's coast, just 28 miles to the northeast of Alicante. The city is famous for having a cluster of skyscrapers right along the beach. Despite the businesses in the area, the town offers excellent beaches and a hot nightlife.

Spain is an Iberian nation steeped in history, yet brimming with cutting-edge tendencies. Ancient palaces stand alongside modern skyscrapers, and high-speed railways run adjacent to cobblestone streets in many Spanish cities and towns. Famous towers abound in Spain, both old and new. Much of this country's impressive architecture dates back hundreds of years, to the times of Moorish occupation and the reigns of conquering Roman Catholic kings. Contemporary architects have left their mark more recently, with visionary designs bordering on the surreal. Myriad attractions await, but several towers stand out as some of the most iconic sites in Spain.

Located in the heart of the Iberian peninsula, Avila is the highest provincial capital in Spain built atop a high, rocky hill in the south of Castile-Leon. The area is known for being the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Avila, the headquarters of the Grand Inquisition and for its beautifully preserved medieval walls, which have earned the city a place on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Avila is a fascinating city but is not yet overrun with tourists, making it a great place to visit.

More than 10 million visitors flock to Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, each year, according to Lonely Planet. Given the island's enormous tourism industry, it's no surprise that visitors can select from so many types of accommodations. Whether you're looking for a cushy and convenient hotel room in the middle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife or a breezy villa on the coast, Tenerife likely has the right style accommodations to suit your needs. While your options are extensive, offerings at a few properties stand out, at a range of price points.

Bullfighting in northern Spain is one of the region's most iconic traditions. Cherished by its aficionados and demonized by animal-rights activists, bullfighting has long been a popular sport throughout Spain. The northern reaches of this Iberian country are home to some of the biggest bullfighting events in the world, making the area a premier destination for travelers interested in witnessing the bloody and dazzling spectacle.

Extending southward from the rest of Europe, nearly touching Africa, Spain's hot weather attracts many tourists from lands farther north. However, the summer sun doesn't shine with the same strength on all of Spain's regions. From Galicia's Atlantic coastline and the eastern and southern Mediterranean beaches to the mountain ranges in Andalucia and along the border with France, Spain's many micro-climates offer a range of temperatures during the summer months.

The autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain, the setting of Cervantes' masterpiece "Don Quixote," encompasses five provinces. Here you can contemplate architectural marvels from various periods, tour archaeological sites and explore more than 1,200 square miles of protected natural areas.

Benidorm is a coastal town located in the province of Alicante, Spain. The town is known as a hot tourist destination and offers its visitors a plethora of hotels and beaches on the Mediterranean Sea. Also popular to the area are three family-orientated theme parks, a large shopping outlet and community exercise and singing areas. While visiting the town it is worth checking out the top attractions of the area.

The Spanish city of Murcia sits along the Mediterranean Sea, positioned roughly halfway between the southern beaches of Almería and the cosmopolitan bustle of Valencia to the north. Despite its enviable location, Murcia ranks as one of Spain's least visited tourist destinations. Murcia's role as an industrial and agricultural center tends to overshadow the city's finer points. Tourists that decide to make the trip to Murcia will be rewarded with an attractive mix of Gothic and Moorish architecture interspersed among charming plazas and chic, modern districts with shops and university-oriented establishments.

Save money by forgoing luxury hotels and live like a resident by renting a private villa in Spain. In Spain, villas can range from the luxurious fit for royalty to run-down shacks that were once considered villas in the distant past. There is something for everyone in Spain: for Spanish culture, choose Barcelona or Madrid. For beach hot spots, try the Costa del Sol or the Costa Blanca. For cutting-edge cuisine, look in the Basque area around San Sebastian. For island paradise, try Formentera or Majorca. For partying, select Ibiza. And for castle cities and Moorish retreats, try Andalusia. There are a large number of villas available in Spain, and with careful research, you should be able find the ideal spot for your vacation.

Spain first advocated ecotourism in the 1990s. As the country advances towards an energy-progressive standing, it ranks as the world’s fourth largest producer of wind power. Colossal wind turbines mark the hillsides throughout the Spanish regions, including La Mancha, like a scene suggestive of Cervantes' Don Quixote. Play an active role in Spain’s eco-friendly stance on your travels. Cycle your way through the white towns of Andalucía or go birding in Spain’s swamps and wetlands. Volunteer on an organic farm or work with recovery efforts of the endangered bearded vulture in the Pyrenees.

Popular music resonates out into the cobbled streets and squares of Spain. Shaped by history, social and political change, Spain’s music has an undeniable familiarity and accessibility, making it an essential part of Spanish culture and tradition. Regions retain distinctive and diverse cultural and musical styles. Popular music produced commercially, such as heavy metal, punk and ska, have a prominent role in Spanish society with bands such as La Pesta Negra. Artists such as Alejandro Sanz have made folk ballads relevant in Spain today.

Avila, Spain, is noted for two things: its well-preserved medieval heritage and as a destination for pilgrimages and religious tourism. St. Teresa of Avila was born and spent much of her life working in Avila, and it was that work that eventually made her Spain's most important female saint. Avila is an easy day trip from Madrid.

Spain is a popular destination for travelers who want some extended vacation time. The country's stunning beaches, moderate climate, and timeless history can keep any traveler busy for years. Renting a villa or an apartment from a property owner in Spain is a great option for travelers who want to have their own kitchen and personal living space.

The walled town of Segovia, inscribed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization, is a short day trip from Madrid. Less than an hour away from Spain's capital, Segovia's landmarks and religious monuments bear testament to the town's importance to the Roman empire, and during the Middle Ages, when Christians, Muslims and Jews all inhabited the city.

Long a destination for religious pilgrims, Avila continues to attract many visitors each year. Avila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for the enormous twelfth century stone wall that surrounds the city and for being the birthplace of Saint Teresa in 1515. Avila is also famous for the sweets made by the nuns of the Covenant of Santa Maria de Jesuis and the Monastery of Santa Anathe. Whether their visit is religious or not, there are many activities to keep travelers busy.

Oviedo is an ancient city on the north-central coast of Spain between the Bay of Biscay and the Cantabrian Mountains. The city of more than 220,000 residents is the provincial capital of Asturias and is home to a distinct architectural style called Asturian pre-Romanesque. Visitors to the city can wander around the city's narrow streets among old buildings lined with Oviedo's famous cider bars.

A top day trip destination from Spain's capital, Madrid, is Toledo, a city inscribed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization on account of its diverse and tangible history. Christians, Jews and Muslims once lived side by side in Toledo. This confluence of cultures is evident in the city's monuments, most of which are religious in nature and display hybrid architectural styles.

Barcelona is Spain's artistic heart; the city that was home to Antoni Gaudi and Joan Miro provides a breathtaking architectural mix and continues to be on the cutting-edge in fashion and design. The Catalans are nestled between Spanish and French culture and that influence is obvious in the city's way of life, which mixes Parisian Left Bank bohemianism with Spain's exuberance and ability to revel late into the night.

Located in Spain's Balearic Islands, Majorca offers vacations in many guises. It does cheap summer holidays on the south coast, has plenty of senior visitors year-round, and has been hailed as a hip destination with boutique hotels that, among other things, can teach you how to sleep. Majorca's first charter flight landed in 1950, but before that it was fought over by the Romans, Vandals, Byzantines and Moors, until the Christian conquest of 1229 settled its final direction. A favorite destination for northern Europeans looking for a better climate than their homelands, Majorca has a good infrastructure of hotels, visitor attractions and tourist offices, yet somehow retains much its rugged beauty, especially on the west coast.

Most people think you can find pyramids only in Egypt, or Latin America, but one of Europe's favorite tourist destinations has its own. Located on Tenerife Island, in the Grand Canaries, the Pyramids of Guimar remained obscure until the 1990s, when Thor Heyerdahl, the famous anthropologist took an interest in the site. The origins remain a mystery, but that doesn't detract from their beauty and they are worth a visit on any trip to Tenerife.