Sick of relentless rain and constant colds? It’s time for a winter getaway. Many people think of Spain as a summer spot, but we’re firm believers that Barcelona is breathtaking whatever the weather. From sparkling Christmas markets and ornate cathedrals to buzzing bars and tasty tapas, there are a million reasons to visit Barcelona in winter. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a shortlist of the top five.
21st May 2025 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Easter in Seville is a whole lot more than chocolate eggs and fuzzy yellow chicks. Known as Semana Santa (Holy Week), the seven-day celebration spans from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday and is one of Spain’s most deeply rooted Catholic traditions. In Seville, schools shut, some workplaces close and the whole city pitches in to honour the Passion of Jesus Christ with processions, floats and flamenco-style prayers.
20th February 2025 - Spain Culture
With lush parks springing to life and rooftop bars filling with sun-seekers, what better time to visit Barcelona than in spring? Whether you want to join the Sant Jordi celebrations, marvel at the view from Montjuic Castle, dig your feet into honey-hued sands or meander through the city’s winding streets, this season has plenty to offer. Read on for our carefully curated guide on what to do in spring
27th January 2025 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Barcelona may be a popular summer city getaway, but we’d argue that September is the best time to visit. Forget overcrowding and overheating and enjoy the empty shorelines and cooler climate that follow August’s summer rush. Not convinced? We’ve narrowed down a list of reasons to visit Barcelona in September. If you’re after a peaceful trip, look no further than the city’s vast stretches of sand, tranquil green gardens and winding alleys.
31st December 2024 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Valencia vs Seville is an impossible problem. Both are soaked in year-round sun, peppered with petals from orange trees and are temptingly close to the UK. In short, neither is head and shoulders above the other. But every traveller is different, and we’ve gotten under their (sun-kissed) skin to discover the boxes that each Spanish city ticks. From the flamenco-founding Seville to the paella-producing Valencia, read on to discover what makes each city buzz.
3rd December 2024 - Spain Guide
Set adrift off the coast of North Africa, the Canary Islands are sunbaked and splendidly diverse. ‘Winter sun’ is the phrase most associated with Spain’s octet of volcanic islands, and sun-seeking travellers flock here year-round for sweeping beaches, spellbinding scenery and cuisine that marries Moroccan and Spanish flavours. Some islands are more popular than others, and some have reputations that precede them; look past these dated preconceptions, and you’ll be rewarded with wild nature and favourable weather.
18th November 2024 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Cerulean skies, cobalt blue seas and stunning mountainscapes; we could be describing any one of the 11 idyllic islands that together make up the Balearics and the Canaries. Both long-time favourites among British holidaymakers, it’s finally time for a head-to-head between these two Spanish island groups to see how they compare when it comes to climate, beaches and overall good-time vibes. So cast aside any preconceptions of partying and package holidays and read on to find out who will triumph in the Spanish island stand-off between the Balearic Islands vs Canary Islands.
31st July 2024 - Spain Beaches & Islands
Travellers have long been beguiled by the beautiful Balearic Islands. And who can blame them? Mallorca, the largest of the lot, offers something for everyone. Shaking off its reputation as a party island (sorry, Magaluf), tourists flock to Mallorca for its unspoilt beaches, rugged natural landscapes and cosmopolitan capital, Palma. But for those who prefer to stray from the tourist trail and escape the accompanying crowds, there are plenty of quiet corners and well-kept secrets to discover.
3rd July 2024 - Spain Travel Tips
Green Spain – the clue’s in the name. Framed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains, this emerald-hued region sits pretty at the northernmost point of Spain. Encompassing Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and Basque Country, visitors come for the verdant landscapes but stay for the rich cultural traditions and seductive cities. Although Green Spain doesn’t conform to the typical sun-bleached image of Iberia, it's equally as remarkable as its southern counterpart.
19th June 2024 - Spain Travel Inspiration
On an enviable trip to Spain, our Europe specialist, Valeria, sampled some of the country’s sun-soaked experiences. While exploring Castilla y Leon and Castilla y la Mancha, she indulged in cheese, cycled through wineries and hunted for truffles alongside dogs. Want in on the rest of Valeria’s authentic Spanish adventure? Read on for the lowdown and discover her top tips for a memorable trip to Spain.
29th April 2024 - Spain Travel Tips
On a research trip to Mallorca and Menorca, our Europe specialist Kate visited these glorious islands for the first time and discovered their delights. Traditional seafood dishes were consumed, hidden beaches were discovered and gorgeous hotels were visited. Want to learn more about the quirks of each island? Read on for a rundown of Kate’s trip to Mallorca and Menorca. Where did you visit? What did you get up to?
29th January 2024 - Spain Travel Tips
Our clued-up local Concierges are the ultimate insiders. That’s why we’ve left it to them to plan the perfect 24 hours in Palma, Mallorca's vibrant capital. A beguiling blend of culture and coast, it’s right up there when it comes to the best Mediterranean Big Short Breaks. Thanks to its warm climate and walkable streets, that’ll have you chomping on croquetas and chipirones at lunch and stepping into the world of Joan Miró by early evening, it’s the perfect year-round destination.
22nd January 2024 - Spain 24 Hours In
First holiday or honeymoon? Milestone anniversary or mum-and-dad-only trip? Spain has something for every couple, in every era of life. And for the busy duo who don’t have weeks to spare for a romantic retreat, it makes for a heavenly short-haul sojourn. From city breaks brimming with beauty to gorgeous getaways on glorious islands, we’ve shortlisted six of the most romantic places in Spain for you to discover with your lover.
13th November 2023 - Spain Honeymoon
Nestled on the northern coast of Spain, San Sebastian (known locally as Donostia) is a seaside haven where Basque charm meets culinary excellence. With its unique blend of coastal beauty and mountainous landscapes, this elegant town offers a plethora of experiences. From savouring Michelin-starred cuisine to strolling along pristine white sand beaches, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite things to do in San Sebastian.
2nd October 2023 - Spain Travel Inspiration
For sipping in the sunshine, few places in the world rival Seville. Affectionately nicknamed ‘the frying pan of Spain’, this sizzling city experiences some of Europe’s hottest temperatures. No wonder locals and travellers alike make a beeline for the city’s rooftop bars, seeking out big views, perfectly chilled drinks and a seat in the shade. Seville’s 500-year-old cathedral also makes for an awe-inspiring focal point from up high.
20th September 2023 - Spain Food & Drink
In Madrid, you can expect to reach new heights on a night out (quite literally). From trendy cocktail lounges to chic terraces, the city’s rooftop bars offer the perfect perch from which to soak in the beauty of the Spanish capital with a delicious drink in hand. Whether you’re sipping on a fresh and fruity rosé in Le Tavernier or savouring a frozen daiquiri at Ginkgo Sky Bar, you’re guaranteed a side of swoon worthy views.
18th August 2023 - Spain Food & Drink
Barcelona is a city that has long captivated visitors with its fascinating history, impressive architecture and gorgeous beaches. But it’s not just the cultural and natural attractions that makes the coastal city a must-visit destination. With its dynamic cocktail scene, Barcelona has become a magnet for cocktail connoisseurs. From classic speakeasies to modern open-air terraces, there's a plethora of establishments offering all sorts of unique and delicious concoctions.
18th August 2023 - Spain Food & Drink
Spain has always been synonymous with sun, sea and sand, so it’s no surprise that its beach towns are some of the finest in the world. Blessed with brilliant beaches (or playas), boutique shops, bustling tapas bars and beguiling history, the best beach towns in Spain are beloved by locals and tourists alike. From sandy strolls and Mediterranean swims to sipping sangria with a sea view, a seaside holiday in Spain is hard to beat.
10th August 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
For sun, sea and sand just a short flight away from the UK, a beach holiday in Spain is hard to beat. With over 3,000 miles of coastline (including one of the longest coastlines in the Mediterranean) and islands aplenty, picking the best beaches in Spain is a tricky task. And while you might be imagining sprawling resorts and sunseekers packed sardine-like on the sand, Spanish beaches have so much more to surprise you with.
20th July 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
Sitting pretty just off the coast of Spain lies Mallorca, a postcard-perfect island in the Balearic Sea, that gets over 300 days of sunshine each year (lucky for some). And where better to catch those rays than on one of the beautiful beaches? The island is famous for them after all. From small secluded coves surrounded by pine forests to bustling stretches of sand offering all kinds of water sports, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to lay down your beach towel.
18th July 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
You take a sip of sangria and a nibble of tapas while lazing on a plush poolside lounger and think, yes, this is the life. Ibiza? Mallorca? Nope. You’re in the heart of one of Spain’s most beautiful cities: Barcelona. More specifically you’re lounging on one of the best rooftops in Barcelona, hovering in a serene oasis above all the action below. And then of course there are the vistas – whether you’re after a privileged view of the Sagrada Familia,
13th June 2023 - Spain Travel Tips
Valencia is one of those cities that unfairly sits in the shadow of its big sisters, in this case Madrid and Barcelona. And while we absolutely love these cities, Valencia is somewhere that still feels comparatively undiscovered. Mass tourism is yet to fully take hold, which means the charming historic sites never feel too overcrowded, the foodie scene is delightfully authentic and the nearby beaches still have a charmingly-traditional seaside feel.
13th June 2023 - Spain 24 Hours In
Once solely categorised as the party island in Spain, Ibiza has, in recent years, begun attracting a new sort of clientele: glamorous globe trotters looking to kick back in bohemian yoga retreats, barefoot beach clubs and beautifully-designed, white-washed restaurants. And while, yes, the nightlife can be as rambunctious as the rumours remark, an Ibizan escape can also mean relaxation, adventure and plenty of culture (mostly of the gastronomic variety).
9th June 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
Yes, there are some truly remarkable cities to visit in this world. But bigger doesn’t always mean better. Consider touring around some of the most beautiful villages on your next trip in Spain – there’s an abundance of them in this Mediterranean country, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. From stunning mountain retreats to charming seaside spots, you’re in for a real treat. And you don’t have to drive to the middle of nowhere to stumble upon a crumbling stone building or hilly hiking trail either.
25th May 2023 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Barcelona — a blend of architecture, art, gastronomy and sandy shores. The Spanish city’s coastline provides the opportunity to experience all that the Mediterranean has to offer, without needing to journey far from the city. Given their central location, the beaches in Barcelona are extremely popular among locals and tourists, which means they can get crowded during the summer months. Despite this, they’re among Europe’s top-rated urban beaches, and a lot of effort goes into keeping them clean and safe for all to enjoy.
8th May 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
Ah, Valencia. The sunny seaside city is known for its oranges, warm Mediterranean climate, stunning architecture, and for being the birthplace of paella, arguably Spain’s most famous culinary creation. What it’s perhaps less well known for, however, is its abundance of glorious sandy beaches within the city limits. Easily accessible by car, bike, or even foot, many of the best beaches in Valencia stretch along the unspoiled shore of the Albufera Natural Park and are fringed by pine-forested dunes and paddy fields where the famous paella rice is grown.
4th May 2023 - Spain Beaches & Islands
Charmingly compact and easily reached from major cities like Seville and Málaga, the culturally-dense city of Cordoba is a small but mighty hub in the heart of Andalusia. Cordoba’s long history of Islamic, Jewish and Catholic rule over the last 2,000 years is woven into the city itself, be that in the tasty Moorish pastries you can savour in the Jewish Quarter or in the juxtaposition of architectural styles in the seriously impressive Mezquita, a mosque turned cathedral.
4th May 2023 - Spain 24 Hours In
Barcelona is a sprawling Gaudí and Art Nouveau masterpiece, painting its way across the coastline and basking in the Mediterranean sun. This metropolitan mecca has been wining, dining and inspiring tourists for generations, with its soul-stirring manmade wonders and tapas aplenty. Of course, with its urban beauty being so instantly recognisable, it’s easy to assume you’ve seen the best that this city has to offer, but under the surface there’s still so much to discover.
1st December 2022 - Spain Travel Inspiration
There’s something truly captivating about driving on the open road. The wind whipping your face (if you’re fortunate enough to be in an open top car), the ultimate road trip playlist blasting from the speakers (likely a Bruce Springsteen number) and nothing but the distance ahead and the promise of adventure. Road trips are about the journey as much as the destination, as you weave along scenic roads and soak up magnificent views.
12th September 2022 - Spain Adventure
With its reputation for romance and passion, Spain’s culture, cuisine and traditions consistently surprise and delight visitors. Equally enchanting are the country’s varied landscapes and intriguing topography, ranging from rugged mountain-ranges and wild countryside to idyllic seaside towns and crystal blue ocean. But it’s Spain’s cities that deserve an honourable mention in the line-up of its highlights.
5th May 2022 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Barcelona likes to defy the rules. With its complex political landscape, gravity defying skyline of cartoon-like spires and quirky traditions, Catalonia’s capital proudly beats to the sound of its own drum. Beckoning bohemian beach bums to its Mediterranean shore and urbanites to its world-class restaurants and nightlife, Barcelona is a city that never sleeps but is partial to power nap. From the whimsical creations of modernism’s maestro Antonio Gaudí and his street art successors – who are equally as mosaic mad – to the city’s trendy neighbourhoods,
29th April 2022 - Spain Culture
Offering an exciting mix of ancient architecture, waves from a surfers dream and some of the most spectacular food in Europe, the Spanish city of San Sebastian really packs a punch. Also known as Donostia, this coastal city in northern Spain brims with colour and creativity, from the ancient stained-glass-window-covered cathedrals to the art museums demonstrating local talent. With more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world, San Sebastian is a must for any gastronomic groupie.
2nd March 2022 - Spain 24 Hours In
Whether you find yourself in the heart of Seville in a magical mosaic-tiled restaurant surrounded by wandering vines and twinkling lights, or relaxing with a cocktail in a blissful beach-front tapas bar in Barcelona, you will find that Spanish people take immense pride in their food. Days begin with breakfast, a mid-morning affair, followed by a leisurely lunch and dinner in the late evening, and there are plenty of opportunities for sweet treats and cured meats in between, so be prepared to spend the entire day feasting.
2nd February 2022 - Spain Food & Drink
SHA Wellness SHA is a wellness hotel dedicated to improving people's health and well-being through a fusion of ancient oriental disciplines and revolutionary western techniques. Just 30 miles from Alicante and 100 from one of our all-time favourite hangouts - Valencia - SHA is, in our humble opinion, the best health retreat in Europe. The location isn't too bad, either, near the beach of El Albir and surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
For a bitesize break bursting with fabulous food and heaps of culture, Valencia is hard to top. This pocket-sized port city on Spain's south-eastern coast is overflowing with cool cafes, lovely local restaurants, buzzing tapas bars and a pulsing nightlife. Read on to discover the top foodie experiences in this sunny Spanish city. Fresh Fare in Central Market Hit the ground running with a visit to the city's stunning Central Market.
28th June 2021 - Spain Food & Drink
This is the real, raw, authentic Spain and it's magnificent... Wonderfully secluded... Located high up in the mountains of the Teruel region of Spain between Barcelona and Valencia, one and a half hours from the coast, in the state of Aragon, Mas de la Serra (meaning 'farmhouse of the mountain') couldn't be more remote. I arrived by night and so at first I didn't realise the extent of my seclusion; the only clue was our ascent up a 5 km dirt track that meandered its way up from a quiet, mountainous road, deep into the wilderness.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
Love Spain, Love Tapas? Here is a Spanish recipe for ham croquettes. These are absolutely delicious, but be warned, a bit of a fiddle to make.... Ingredients 250g of Serrano ham - or cooked lardons of pancetta if you can't find a block of Serrano ham 4 dessert spoons of good olive oil 120g butter 115g plain flour 1lt milk ½ tsp grated nutmeg Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 eggs, beaten 250g breadcrumbs 1 lt oil for deep frying Method Cut the ham into 0.
28th June 2021 - Spain Food & Drink
Four twenty-somethings with wanderlust in search of sun, fun, culture and gastronomy. One long weekend... Seville was the perfect choice for a Bank Holiday city break. Awe-Inspiring Architecture Seville is a city with something of a split-personality. It's a giant mish-mash of moorish, baroque and gothic architecture with a dash of the ultra modern thrown in there for good measure. Simply put, it's stunning.
28th June 2021 - Spain Big Short Breaks
Hacienda San Rafael A family-run, former olive farm in a beautiful rural Andalucian setting, halfway between Seville and Jerez. The family-owned and managed Hacienda San Rafael strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sophistication, with the relaxed atmosphere of a private country house. The eleven rooms are set around a cobbled courtyard, each with a veranda where breakfast is served.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
The Ritz Carlton, Abama Proof that big can be beautiful, the Abama is an exclusive resort in Tenerife offering five-star accommodation and a first class range of facilities, particularly for families. The Ritz Carlton, Abama resort is based around the 'citadel' - a terracotta-coloured, Moorish style building - from where there are panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby island of La Gomera.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
SHA wellness clinic is the perfect place to relax, be pampered and unwind... 360 days of sunshine After a two hour flight to Alicante and a short drive to SHA Wellness Clinic we arrived. The sun was shining, bright blue skies and the first thing my driver tells me is that the sun shines 360 days of the year - I believed him, I went in February and it was glorious. Images of package holidays To most people, and rightly so, Alicante and Benidorm conjure up images of packed, package holidays.
28th June 2021 - Spain Travel Inspiration
I have no doubt that most of you will have already heard of San Sebastian and its notoriety amongst foodies as having countless Michelin Stars. I set off earlier this year to turn the region from a micro gastronomic adventure into a massive Basque journey through the whole of this north eastern corner of Spain. Brilliant Bilbao Conveniently the gateway to this region is into Bilbao. The city acts as a superb starting point as the food is divine but the centre is on a smaller scale than nearby San Sebastian.
28th June 2021 - Spain Food & Drink
I am blown away with my charming discoveries... I would go back in a flash I have wanted to visit Valencia for years having explored much of the south of Spain with my family but I had never had a chance. I couldn't wait any longer so I bought myself a cheap easyjet flight and flew out in June combining it with a few days in Mallorca. I had heard about the fantastic Fallas festival in March, the Tomatina festival in August and the excitement around the Americas Cup all of which take place in and around Valencia but I wasn't sure what else I would find.
28th June 2021 - Spain Big Short Breaks
Cap Rocat Cap Rocat, once a military fortress located in the most secluded area of the bay of Palma, has been transformed into a boutique hotel. The former cannon bays, each with a commanding view of the bay, have been turned into 21 suites with private patio and terraces while the Suite El Cabo has a large, living room furnished with art and antiques, and a spacious garden with private terrace. A further two double rooms on the fortress walls have been created from the former soldiers' quarters.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
Seville is not the only city of spectacle in this corner of Spain, and a road trip around Southern Spain is definitely not to be sniffed at. Cordoba (best visited during the 'Battle of the Flowers') and Granada (of Alhambra fame) make for a wonderful combination of Southern Spain's highlights and as ever our little black book of guides and things to do, see and eat should make exploring them seamless.
28th June 2021 - Spain Travel Inspiration
There is far more to Spain than package-holidays and sangria; it has so many different elements to its culture, from the Moorish influence in the South, to the Basque country of the North, where you'll find some of the best food in Europe. Because we're so fascinated by this country, we've put together a list of our top five experiences in Spain, which covers the lot, from eating to surfing and sightseeing.
28th June 2021 - Spain Travel Inspiration
Hotel Marqués de Riscal The Hotel Marqués de Riscal is the design hotel to trump all others, designed as it is by the renowned Canadian architect Frank Gehry, who revitalised Bilbao with his Guggenheim Museum. The hotel is located just outside the village of Elciego, in the heart of the Rioja wine region, and has already become a tourist attraction in its own right. The structure is clad is Gehry's signature sheets of twisting titanium, tinged pink and gold to signify the red and white wines of the Marqués de Riscal winery, which commissioned the building at a cost of some £50m.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
Forget your preconceptions: Tenerife is much more than just a 'fly and flop' destination. The island, the largest of the Canary Islands, has a rich architectural culture and the fauna found in Teide National Park and north east of the island in the Anaga Mountains makes Tenerife a wonderful place to visit. Teide National Park During the cooler months the temperature is around 18 degrees and in summer is an average of late twenties/early thirties, making this a genuine all-year round destination.
28th June 2021 - Spain Culture
A riot of Moorish palaces, Gothic churches and shaded patios; and with the scent of orange blossoms, hot sun and blue sky, terraces full of boisterous laughter until late at night, Seville is the most flamboyant city in Spain, where Jewish, Christian, Muslim and gypsy cultures mingle. Here is how we would spend one day in Seville. 8:00 am Cathedral and minaret The Cathedral is one of the largest Catholic buildings in the world ; it is topped by the Giralda, the former minaret of the pre-existing mosque, a replica of the Koutoubia of Marrakesh.
28th June 2021 - Spain 24 Hours In
Enjoy a fabulous island holiday while avoiding the crowds, where life is at a relaxed pace and far removed from daily routines and urgency. A holiday that is just a stone's throw away and bathed in the summer sun as well as in the eternity of endless horizons. Here is our selection of these beautiful spots in Spain where time stands still: in the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands and even just a short hop from the coast of Galicia.
28th June 2021 - Spain Beaches & Islands
The Spanish capital is both majestic and bohemian. The city offers a seamless blend of architecture, gastronomy and culture. Lively and always on the move, it brings a welcome exotic touch. Here are some ways to take advantage of this beautiful Spanish city on one day in Madrid. 9:00 am Morning at Retiro Park The tour begins at the Puerta de Alcala, one of the city's historic gates. Right across the street, Retiro Park awaits its visitors.
28th June 2021 - Spain 24 Hours In
Every year, several million tourists visit Barcelona, drawn to its laid-back lifestyle and rich cultural heritage. For a short but intense stay in the Catalan capital, there's nothing better than a tailor-made itinerary. Here is how we would suggest spending one day in Barcelona. 9:00 am Placa de Catalunya The tour starts at a strategic location : Placa de Catalunya. It's the start of the famous Las Ramblas, whose pedestrian centre offers tons of activities :
28th June 2021 - Spain 24 Hours In
Spain is a proud and vibrant country. From the Middle Ages to post-Movida, here are three of the best books to read before travelling to Spain, where the Spanish soul shines through. 1 Don Quixote by Miguel Cervantes Many of us have heard of the peregrinations of the gentleman who was entranced by tales knighthood and begins to travel his country, perched atop his horse, Rossinante, and accompanied by his squire.
28th June 2021 - Spain Culture
Corral Del Rey The hotel's original 17th century building has been meticulously restored and incorporates an atrium patio, Roman marble columns and original carved wooden beams, with the bedrooms situated around the galleries of the central courtyard. The owners have now bought the building opposite and doubled the number of rooms to 12, with an additional penthouse suite. Each room comes with a state of the art sound and vision system, and the limestone and marble bathrooms have walk-in rain showers or baths.
28th June 2021 - Spain Hotels
Foodie heaven... The Basques are a fiercely independent bunch, with huge regional pride, a language that seems to consist entirely of 't's, 'k's and 'x's, and a desire to be distinct. This sentiment has had a wonderful side effect - Basque food is one of the ways they like to differentiate themselves from their Spanish cousins. 'No tapas here - only pintxos.' 'Sherry? Pah, Andalucian filth.' You get the message.
28th June 2021 - Spain Food & Drink
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