Travel options for holidays in Spain
The Spanish mainland can be easily reached by train, bus or your own car.Many tour operators offer cheap bus tours to the northern sections of the coast. You can reach Barcelona from Frankfurt/Main in 12 hours by train, and bus it takes a few hours longer
Spain with the low-cost airlines easily reach For example, Ryanair maintains connections from numerous German cities to Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Malaga. The Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands are also served by low-cost airlines. All major tour operators also offer cheap package tours to the Spanish coastal regions and islands.
Our pirate tip: Mallorca can be reached by ferry from Barcelona. So why not visit Barcelona for a few days and then head to the Balearic Islands to party and swim?
Entry into Spain
Border controls do not take place in Spain as part of the Schengen area. The customs regulations of the European Union.
Weather and climate of Spain
Weather and climate in Spain depends on the region.The north has an Atlantic climate with mild summers and winters. In the center of Spain, on the other hand, there is an oceanic-continental climate.
That means it rains a lot here in winter and snow often falls in the northern inland. In summer, however, the temperatures here are higher than on the coast.
is particularly popular with us, sunny south of Spain with an average at least eight hours of sunshine a day.This is therefore much sunnier than the north, which has just 5.4 hours of sun a day.
The best travel time for Spain
the best travel time depends on the destination.The best time to make a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela is in the summer months, because it gets cold and rainy in northern Spain in winter. In southern Malaga, on the other hand, you can confidently pitch your winter camp, where the thermometer still climbs to 20 degrees in December. Inland Spain is characterized by a harsher climate, especially on the high plateaus, where summers can be extremely hot and winters severe.
The Balearic Islands experience rainy and cold weather from November to around the end of February. Already at the beginning of March it gets significantly warmer and by July and August the islands fill up and it becomes difficult to find a place on the beach.
Since the Canary Islands are much further south off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic, there are completely different climatic conditions there. The Canary Islands are also an excellent holiday destination for sun-seekers in winter and are even suitable for swimming. However, the Atlantic is cooler than the Mediterranean.
The top excursion destinations & sights on holiday in Spain
Here you will find our top 6 of the most beautiful destinations and sights in Spain.
1. Plaza Mayor in Madrid
The Plaza Mayor (in English: main square) in the center of Madrid is one of the top sights of the Spanish capital.It was already the city's central market place in the 15th century. Today you can enjoy delicious Spanish food and enjoy the special architecture of the square. Incidentally, the Plaza Mayor is also worth a visit in winter, when the traditional Christmas market takes place here.
2. Church of Our Lady of Regla auf Fuerteventura
on Fuerteventura awaits most beautiful churches in the Canary Islands.You can find them in the town of Pájara and you will be amazed by the ornate decorations on the facade. Admission is free.Here it is really worth exchanging a day beach for a small cultural excursion!
3. El Teide National Park in Tenerife
Not only the mainland has a lot to offer: The El Teide National Park and the Teide volcano in the heart of the Canary Island of Tenerife are also rightly on the list of top destinations in Spain.In 2007 the national park was UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular hiking area.Incidentally, the Teide volcano is also the highest mountain in Spain.You can almost get to the summit with the cable car.
Our pirate tip: You need an extra permit (strictly limited!) to access the summit. You should get these in advance so that you can really climb to the top.
4. Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
No holiday in Spain without a visit to the Sagrada Família ! 's Barcelona looks impressive in pictures, but once you stand in front of it, you'll understand why the church is one of the most popular sights in Spain.Designed by the artist Antoni Gaudí , the church has not yet been completed , but this does not detract from the fascination.
Our pirate tip: You should definitely book tickets for a visit online in advance, otherwise you will have to be prepared for a very long waiting time on site.
5. Alcazaba and Roman Theater in Malaga
The city of Málaga has two impressive, historical buildings to offer for you: Alcazaba is an old fortification from the 11th century and right below is the Roman theater.In the Alcazaba you will experience various exhibitions today and have a great view of the city and the port.
6. Old Town of Valencia
The beautiful old town of Valencia during your holiday in Spain also not miss Especially the city's main square, the Plaza de la Virgen , and the Cathedral of Valencia are more than worth seeing. But these buildings in the old town are also worth a short stopover:
the old city gate Torres de Serranos,
the silk exchange
und der Palast Marques de Dos Aguas
The regions of Spain at a glance
Spain is not only one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans , but also more diverse than almost any other country in Europe. But no matter whether you Mediterranean coast , inland or the Atlantic are traveling Everyone will find their dream region on a holiday in Spain.
Here we introduce you to all regions so that you can already get an idea of where exactly you want to go.
Spain's Mediterranean Regions
In all, four regions of Spain border the Mediterranean Sea.To the north, right on the border with France and Andorra, is Catalonia.This is followed by the regions of Valencia and Murcia.The southernmost area of Spain on the Mediterranean Sea is Andalusia.Here, on the Strait of Gibraltar, lies the southernmost point of mainland Europe. So there are many exciting things for you to discover on your holiday in Spain !
Catalonia
Catalonia is best known, especially in recent times, for the region striving for independence from Spain.Not only in the capital Barcelona , but in the entire region, more than a third of the population speaks Catalan.By the way, a city trip to Barcelona really worth recommending to everyone.
In the north of Catalonia you will find the Costa Brava.In addition to the party stronghold of Lloret de Mar , there are also fantastic beaches and nature parks.But the south of Catalonia also offers Costa Daurada numerous places unforgettable beach holiday in Spain.
Valencia
In the Region of Valencia you will find one of the most popular areas for a holiday in Spain.The Costa Blanca not only offers beautiful beaches , but also nearby excursion destinations to picturesque villages and towns in the hinterland.
But the city of Valencia, which is also the capital of the region , offers everything you interesting city need And on top of that, a city trip to Valencia is even cheaper than in other major cities in Spain.
Murcia
the relatively small region of Murcia when planning a holiday in Spain overlooked also offers everything you great holiday need Here the sun shines around 300 days a year and temperatures are often in the high 30s.
A special highlight is the relatively unknown port city of Cartagena.In addition to small streets with cozy bars and restaurants , a fortress and beautiful architecture , there is September the festival of the Romans and Carthaginians The festivities last for several days and there is a lot to see like a landing with an antique boat or parades through the streets of Cartagena.
Andalusia
Andalusia is the southernmost region of mainland Spain.The Costa del Sol is one of the most famous bathing regions in Spain.If you want a day off from relaxing on the beach, the cities of Cordoba and Granada great day trips.
Of course, a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar.A throw away from Africa is the southernmost point of mainland Europe. Andalusia is not only on the Mediterranean Sea, but also has a coastal part on the Atlantic coast.
Spain's regions on the Atlantic coast
A small part of the Atlantic coast lies to the south, in Andalusia.The rest of the Atlantic coasts are in the north of the country. Above Portugal lies Galicia.Then come the regions of Asturias and Cantabria.Last but not least you will find the Basque Country , which extends to the border with France.
Galicia
Galicia's landscape impresses with mountains, rugged coasts and the Rías.The Ría de Arousa is the largest Ría, a narrow sea bay that penetrates deep inland, in Spain. It is 37km long and up to 10km wide.
The many forests in Galicia invite hikers in particular. Here you will also find the destination of what is probably the most famous hiking trail in the world.The city of Santiago de Compostela is the end point of the Way and the cathedral is said to contain the bones of the apostle James. So if hiking is at the top of your to-do list while on holiday in Spain , you've come to the right place in Galicia.
Asturians
In Asturias in the plenty of excursion destinations for hikers.Otherwise, the port city of Gijón is the highlight of the region.Here you will find sights such as the Palacio de los Valdés , which was built on the remains of Roman baths. But the city beach with its 1.5 km of fine sand is definitely worth a visit.
Cantabria
The largest and most important city of the Cantabria region is Santander.More than a third of the population lives in the Spanish port city.Unfortunately, you won't find beautiful old buildings in Santander for the most part. In 1941 there was a huge fire that affected almost the entire city. However cathedral was rebuilt according to the old plans and is therefore one of the most beautiful sights in Santander.
Basque Country
The Basque Country is located in northern Spain between Asturias and Aragon. The region is one of the wealthiest in the country.The largest, and most interesting, city in the region is Bilbao.Here you will not only find the oldest suspension railway in the world , but also Guggenheim Museum Bilbao one of the most worth seeing museums in Spain
If you're in the Basque Country, don't miss out on the local cuisine.Basque cuisine is heavily influenced by its proximity to the sea, with fish and seafood being popular meals.
Discover the interior of Spain on holiday
Castile-La Mancha
The Castilla-La Mancha region is roughly the size of the Czech Republic.This makes it one of the largest regions in the country , but it still has a very small population density. Traditionally, the province of Madrid since 1983 Community Madrid.
Most people don't know Castilla-La Mancha because it has the most castles in Spain, but because of the character of Don Quixote.The character from the novel of the same name by Miguel de Cervantes helped the region become famous around the world.
Castile and Leon
Castilla y León is characterized by the North Mesta, a plateau that is up to 800m above sea level. The land area of the autonomous region is slightly larger than neighboring Portugal , however the population density of the region is so low that only 5.7% of the inhabitants of Spain live here.
One of highlights is the region's largest city, Valladolid.The city is not only beautiful, but also surrounded by five important wine regions.So let's go to a cozy bar and taste your way through the Castilla y León region.
Estremadura
The name Extremadura comes from "extremos del Duero" which means " beyond the river Duero ". The landscape of the region that directly borders Portugal is very varied.The north and west is extremely mountainous.But on the border with the region of Castile and León there are also areas that are very water and fertile.are particularly famous cherries and peppers from these areas.To the south, drier land begins, which grapes and a flourishing animal life shines
Aragon
If you think of Lord of the Rings when you hear the name Aragon, you are excused, but you are wrong. The Spanish region of Aragon borders France to the north on the main ridge of the Pyrenees, Catalonia to the east, Valencia to the southeast, and Castile-La Mancha and Castile and León to the west. The Pyrenees in Aragon naturally offer the best opportunities for long hikes or bike tours.
The capital of the region, and Spain's fifth largest city, is Zaragoza.About half of the inhabitants of all of Aragon live here. The symbol of the city is the Basilica del Pilar.A Roman Catholic church completed in its present form in 1754.
The Spanish Islands
The two largest and most important island groups in Spain are the Balearic and Canary Islands.The Balearic Islands are located in the Mediterranean Sea and consist of Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera and almost 150 uninhabited islands.
The Canary Islands other hand, lie off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean.They include Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.
Discover the Balearic Islands on holiday in Spain
The Balearic Islands are one of the favorite destinations of the Germans. archipelago Mediterranean includes Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Cabrera.
Mallorca
Luckily, Mallorca has long since lost its reputation of only offering parties, drinking and bawling everywhere. Above all, the north of the islands is not only scenically beautiful , but also offers idyllic small villages, hiking trails and perfect conditions for vacationers peace and quiet looking for
But party holidaymakers Mallorca also still offers strongholds such as S'Arenal where you can turn night into day. Find out more about holidays in Mallorca.
Minorca
Little sister island is Menorca.Things are a little more leisurely here. The island is much quieter, but by no means less beautiful.The south offers everything you need for a relaxing beach holiday.Quiet stretches of beach with fine sand and the best weather.The north of Menorca, on the other hand, is very popular with surfers.Find out more about holidays in Menorca.
Ibiza
Meanwhile, Ibiza the rank of the best party island in Mallorca. Nowhere else in the summer will you find so many world-famous DJs playing every weekend in one of the countless clubs on the island.Find out more about holidays in Ibiza.
Formentera
If you like it quieter, Formentera.No other island in Europe compares to Formentera. The whole island exudes an incredible calm.The water is as turquoise as you would otherwise only find in the Caribbean and in some places there are even the best conditions for surfing.It's hard to believe that Formentera, the complete opposite of its neighboring island, is only a 30-60 minute boat ride away.
The Canary Islands - perfect for your holiday in Spain
The Canary Islands are known for their rugged beauty.of volcanic rock Canary Islands are located off Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean and are ideal for active holidays as well as beach holidays.The most popular islands in the Canary Islands are Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Lanzarote.
Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canary Islands.On the 100km long island you can around 300 days of sunshine both a beach holiday and an active holiday enjoy The sandy beaches on the east coast of the island are particularly popular. Especially here, but also on the north coast, there are perfect conditions for surfing and other water sports.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain.The island is particularly known for black lava and white sandy beaches.The interior of the country is characterized by rural and mountainous areas.On Gran Canaria you will find both very busy and popular beach sections , but also quieter sections such as Puerto de Mogán and San Augustin in the south.
the island is also particularly important for the capital Las Palmas in the north island. of activity here, especially as an important stop for cruise ships.
Lanzarote
Lanzarote is known for its volcanic landscape.The rocky Timanfaya National Park was formed by volcanic eruptions in the 1730s and the Cueva de los Verdes is a cavern formed by lava flows.
To the north and west of Lanzarote there are two mountain ranges that are perfect for hiking and cycling.Here you will find many beautiful vantage points from which you have a fantastic overview of the whole island.
Tenerife
The largest of the Canary Islands is Tenerife.The island is dominated by the highest peak in Spain. The dormant volcano Teide towers over the island at 3,718m. Due to the mountainous hinterland with well-developed cycling and hiking trails , Tenerife is also very popular with active holidaymakers who don't just want to lie on the beach.
Another special feature of the island is the partly completely black sand.As on other islands in the Canary Islands, there are both: "normal" white sandy beaches, but also black sandy beaches shaped by volcanic rock.Definitely a highlight on a holiday in Spain !
Accommodation in Spain
In Spain you will find accommodation of all categories , with large hotel complexes dominating the coasts.However, in the second or third row you will always find smaller and more familiar hotels.
In cities like Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid, it's worth small boutique hotels. These are no more expensive than the well-known chains, but have much more charm. On the Balearic Islands there are still one or the other family pension.
With a mobile home or travel to addition to normal campsites often special pitches on the outskirts of the cities in.
Public transport in Spain
Where you can't get there by train in Spain, there's bound to be a bus.The well-developed bus networks are operated regionally , for example by ALSA in Andalusia. Timetables can be viewed on the relevant websites.
Buses are also ideal for national transport and are often cheaper than the Spanish state railway RENFE.
However, if you spend your vacation in Spain on the coast and want to discover small bays, then it makes sense to rent a car or a scooter.
Cultural characteristics in Spain
Three things in Spain in particular have achieved international fame: sangria, paella and tapas.All three are offered throughout Spain, but the real home of tapas is Andalusia.
In Seville, Cordoba and Granada you don't have to go to a tapas bar to enjoy the small delicacies. It is enough to visit a regular beer pub and order draft beer. The draft beer is served with a lid, with a "tapa" on which cheese, olives or other small things are placed.With the second and third beer, the "tapas" are stocked more generously, so that in Andalusia you can get full without even entering a restaurant.
What tours can I do in Spain?
You design the trip individually. The following suggestions may help you.
The round trip along the east coast of Spain away from the big cities
Round trip suggestion: your round trip in Spain in Barcelona , which can be easily reached by plane from many major German cities. From there you head north. First stop is Girona , where there is a beautiful old town to explore. At Platja d'Aro you can treat yourself to a few hours on the beach - typical bathing fun on the Costa Brava.The next station offers more peace and quiet : Playa de Oliva on the Costa Azahar with its magnificent natural dunes.
Afterwards you drive to Granada in Andalusia.Visit the Alhambra, the ancient Moorish fortress.It then goes up into the Sierra Nevada with the Pico del Veleta as the third largest mountain on the Iberian Peninsula. From here you have a great view of the valley.The last stop of the tour is Tarragona.The picturesque bay at Playa de la Mora invites you to relax.
Explore the most beautiful cities in Spain
Itinerary suggestion: Start your road trip in San Sebastian not far from the French border. From the Basque City you set off for Logroño, La Rioja.This forms the gateway to the most famous wine region in the country.
Our pirate tip: try the legendary grilled mushrooms at the city's pintxo bars on Calle de San Juan.
The next destination is Zaragoza with the imposing Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Pilar right on the Ebro.The following stopovers are located on the east coast of Spain:
the port city of Tarragona
Valencia, the cradle of paella
Tabernas with its desert landscape
The Alhambra and Granada should not be missing here either. Visit Malaga on the south coast and marvel at the art and cultural treasures. At the end of the trip we go to the flamenco stronghold of Seville.
Round trip through Spain - organized or on your own?
When traveling through Spain you can offers for organized round trips yourself the save.However, if you plan a road trip yourself, you have the opportunity to decide individually whether you want to continue your journey : you can stop at any stopover for as long as you like. You enjoy more freedom - but on your own if you have problems.
How much time do you need for a tour of Spain?
for your You should have at least two weeks.Sometimes the beautiful beaches on the Atlantic coast or on the Mediterranean Sea are so seductive that you spontaneously stay a day longer.In addition, it takes a little more time to explore a metropolis like Barcelona extensively.