Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Gaztelugatxe is a small islet connected to the Basque coast by only a narrow stone bridge and a winding staircase. Dating back to the 10th century, the island was crowned in the name of John the Baptist and remains a small hermitage with a modest monastery. Two-hundred steps zig and zag up to the top of the mountain where the chapel sits, carving a scenic path visible from the top. The rocky island looks like a castle rising from the sea, which is where the island Gaztelu-aitz or ‘castle rock’ gets its name.
The rough waters of this coastline have carved several arches and caves dotting the edges of the peninsula and giving the island its unique, rugged look. This majestic spot is believed to be a former convent of the Knights Templar, as well as a former conquest of Sir Francis Drake. Climb to the top for the best views of the surrounding area.
Practical Info
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is most accessible during the summer months. Bizkaibus service A-3524 departs from Bakio every two hours. The journey is about a half hour. Alternatively, take a taxi from Bakio.
Address: Gaztelugatxe, Bizkaia, Spain 48370, Spain
From $ 75
Santiago del Teide
The town of Santiago del Teide sits near the western coast of the island of Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands.
Santiago del Teide is in the foothills of the Macizo de Teno mountains, not far from the historic mountain town of Masca. On the coast, the imposing Acantilados de Los Gigantes (Cliffs of the Giants) drop from the mountains directly into the ocean. There are several beach resort towns in the area along the coast.
The town itself is rather small, with only a few restaurants and shops, though there is a museum and a good visitor’s center. Most travelers use Santiago del Teide as a base from which to explore the excellent walking and hiking trails in the area.
Another popular draw for visitors is the village of Masca itself, home to about 90 people who have maintained its historic appearance and agricultural independence. The mountains around Santiago del Teide and Masca have many challenging, though scenic, hiking trails.
Practical Info
There is a hiking trail that descends from the village of Masca all the way down to the beach, but it’s definitely a challenging 2.7-mile trail. Wear good hiking shoes and go with a guide.
Address: Santiago del Teide, Canary Islands, Spain
From $ 29
Santa Cruz District
Whitewashed buildings, maze-like streets, and courtyards lined with orange trees: No place really defines Seville charm quite like the streets of the Santa Cruz district. As the city's former judería, or Jewish quarter, it is home to many of Seville's top sights, from the grand cathedral with its minaret-turned-tower (called the Giralda) to the Real Alcázar and its fountain-dotted gardens.
The neighborhood dates back to when Ferdinand III of Castile took Seville from Muslim rule, and the city's Jewish residents began to live in what is now El Barrio de Santa Cruz (making it the second-largest Jewish Quarter in population behind that of Toledo). After the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492, however, the district fell into disrepair, until it was finally revived in the 18th century.
Apart from appreciating the district's history and seeing the main sights, perhaps the best thing you can do during a visit to Santa Cruz is to simply get lost in the barrio's streets. Walk along Callejon de Agua, which follows the Alcázar garden walls, and is named after an aqueduct of water that used to run atop the wall itself. Or hopscotch from plaza to plaza, with a special stop in the neighborhood's namesake Plaza de Santa Cruz. This square sits on the site of a preexisting church of the same name, which itself was constructed in place of even older ruins from a former synagogue.
The neighborhood dates back to when Ferdinand III of Castile took Seville from Muslim rule, and the city's Jewish residents began to live in what is now El Barrio de Santa Cruz (making it the second-largest Jewish Quarter in population behind that of Toledo). After the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492, however, the district fell into disrepair, until it was finally revived in the 18th century.
Apart from appreciating the district's history and seeing the main sights, perhaps the best thing you can do during a visit to Santa Cruz is to simply get lost in the barrio's streets. Walk along Callejon de Agua, which follows the Alcázar garden walls, and is named after an aqueduct of water that used to run atop the wall itself. Or hopscotch from plaza to plaza, with a special stop in the neighborhood's namesake Plaza de Santa Cruz. This square sits on the site of a preexisting church of the same name, which itself was constructed in place of even older ruins from a former synagogue.
Practical Info
Barrio de Santa Cruz is hard to miss, not only because it's home to Seville's top sights, but because its web of streets will suck you in with their Andalusian allure and have you lost in the turn of a corner. That said, the neighborhood is bordered by the Jardines de Murillo, the Reál Alcázar, and the streets Mateas Gago and Santa Maria la Blanca/San José.
Address: Santa Cruz District, Seville, Spain
From $ 13
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Football fans won’t want to miss a visit to the magnificent Santiago Bernabéu, home to the legendary Real Madrid football team. Despite boasting a capacity of 81,000 spectators and reaching a 5-star rating as a UEFA-classified Elite Stadium, Santiago Bernabéu is actually Spain’s second-largest football stadium, after Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
The Basics
Watching a match at the famous stadium, a 4-time European Cup finals host, is a memorable experience for any football fanatic—especially Real Madrid fans, who want to see iconic players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Karim Benzema in action. But if you’re not lucky enough to score tickets for a match, you can still visit the grounds. Fan tours allow behind-the-scenes access to the stadium, where you can take the elevator to the top of the stadium towers for an impressive panoramic view and then walk in the footsteps of your heroes across the pitch. You’ll also get to sneak a peek into the locker rooms, presidential box, press room, and trophy room—and even walk through the players’ tunnel. The stadium is also a stop on many Madrid city sightseeing tours. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Santiago Bernabéu is a must-see for any soccer fan.
- Don’t forget your camera—stadium fan tours afford many memorable photo ops.
- Guided city tours with entrance to the stadium can last anywhere from one to four hours. A stadium fan tour takes about 45 minutes.
- The entire stadium tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but wheelchair users can visit the Best Club in History room, Sensations room, and the substitute bench.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Santiago Bernabéu is by taking the metro (Line 10) to Santiago Bernabéu station. Several city buses also stop outside the iconic stadium.
When to Get There
The stadium is open for tours daily throughout the year. On match days, tours stop five hours before kick-off.
Watching a Real Madrid Match
Nothing quite matches the excitement of seeing a live Real Madrid match inside their historic stadium. If you want to snag tickets, keep in mind that it’s easier the earlier in the season you plan to attend. High-profile matches against rivals F.C. Barcelona are very difficult to acquire (and often very expensive). Plan to buy tickets at least two weeks before the match to avoid the disappointment of a sold-out stadium.
Address: Avenida de Concha Espina, 1, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: Tours start at €18
From $ 29
Sant Joan Funicular Railway
Not to be confused with the Cremallera train service that transports people up the slopes of Montserrat to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, Barcelona’s Sant Joan Funicular Railway runs from the monastery itself up to the very peak of the mountain. It was built back in 1918 for monks wishing to pray at the Hermitage of Sant Joan, and today it still trundles up the 65% gradient to 1,000 meters(3,280 feet) above sea level for stupendous views across the wild, arid landscapes of Cataluyna. From this vantage point, signposted walking trails lead into one of Catalunya’s most spectacular natural parks; the peaks of Montserrat have been protected since 1987 for their dense forests, in which more than 1,250 species of plants flourish. Animals to be spotted on the mountain slopes include wild goats, foxes and occasional wild boars as well as lizards of all sizes and colors; for wildlife fans there is a small natural history museum at the foot of the Sant Joan Funicular, which shares its opening times with the railway. Four historic villages – El Bruc, Monistrol, Marganell and Collbato – also lie in the Montserrat Natural Park, packed with monasteries, churches, hotels and restaurants.
Practical Info
The funicular is close to Montserrat Monastery. It runs roughly every 20 minutes between 10am–4.50pm in winter, 10am–7.10pm in summer. Single tickets: adult €6.50; seniors €5.85; children under 18 €3.60. Return tickets: adult €10; seniors €9; children under 18 €5.50. Journey time is seven minutes.
Address: Montserrat Monastery, Brcelona, Spain
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Adult: €10; Children (under 18): €5.50
From $ 76
Serra de Tramuntana
The unique cultural landscape of Serra de Tramontana landed it a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. The craggy mountain range covers the northwest side of the island of Mallorca. Standing tall at 1,445 meters, the range’s principle peak Puig Major is the tallest in the Balearic Islands. The limestone mountains receive a higher amount of rainfall than the rest of the island, and often receive snowfall in the winter.
Due to the biodiversity of plant and animal species - and to protect against urbanization - the area has been protected as a natural reserve. Historic villages with structures such as water mills, farms, agricultural and irrigation systems remain in place. Some methods have been in use since the Middle Ages, and demonstrate both Christian and Muslim cultural influence in this area.
With ocean views of turquoise waters and pine-forested hillsides, it is a popular place to enjoy scenic hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Practical Info
While a car is the best way to access this area, public TIB buses run from Palma de Mallora as well. There is also a train running from Palma to the town of Soller.
Address: Balearic Islands, Spain
From $ 32
San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Art
One of Madrid’s leading art museums and most famous artistic training schools, the San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Art, or the Museo de la Real Academia de Bellas Artes San Fernando, features an impressive collection of 15th -20th century European art. Founded in 1752, the museum is perhaps most famous for its many Goya paintings – the Spanish master was the institution’s painting director for many years – and works include his ‘Self-portrait in front of the Easel’.
Over 1500 paintings and 570 sculptures make up the museum’s main collection, with a predominant focus on Spanish, Flemish and Italian artists. Notable artists include Leandro Bassano, Vincent Lopez, José Ribera, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Joaquín Sorolla, Ignacio Zuloaga, Velázquez and Haes, with sculptures by Mariano Benlliure, Picasso and Pablo Gargallo, to name a few. Further exhibits showcase around 15,000 drawings and prints, along with displays of silverware, jewelry and porcelain.
The museum building itself is also worth a second look – a grand baroque residence designed in the 17th-century by José Benito de Churriguera and retaining many of its rich original interiors.
Over 1500 paintings and 570 sculptures make up the museum’s main collection, with a predominant focus on Spanish, Flemish and Italian artists. Notable artists include Leandro Bassano, Vincent Lopez, José Ribera, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Joaquín Sorolla, Ignacio Zuloaga, Velázquez and Haes, with sculptures by Mariano Benlliure, Picasso and Pablo Gargallo, to name a few. Further exhibits showcase around 15,000 drawings and prints, along with displays of silverware, jewelry and porcelain.
The museum building itself is also worth a second look – a grand baroque residence designed in the 17th-century by José Benito de Churriguera and retaining many of its rich original interiors.
Address: Calle de Alcalá, 13, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am - 3pm. Mondays Closed. Temporary exhibit hours are subject to change.
Admission: Adult: 5 EUR, Reduced 2.50 EUR, Student/Child Free
From $ 80
Santa Catalina Park (Parque de Santa Catalina)
Found in the heart of Las Palmas, the Santa Catalina Park is alive with activity from both locals and visitors. It is lined with cafes and shops, and often holds street markets and pop-up festivals. Large palm trees and colorful flower beds add to the beauty of the public square, which is a great place to simply sit and watch people go by. At night the park is also bustling — it’s a nightlife hub of bars, clubs, and discos during the evening hours.
The park is also home to the Museo de la Ciencia (Science Museum) and the Edificio Miller (Miller Building.) Carnaval and the Dance and Theatre Festival are celebrated here during summer.
There’s also a small playground that’s suitable for small children. The park is a central transportation hub and meeting spot from which many tours depart.
Practical Info
The park is nearby to the port of Las Palmas. There is a tourist information office at the park’s edge, as well as many restaurant options.
Address: 35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
Hours: Mon-Fri from 10am–1pm and 5–8pm, Sat-Sun from 10am–1pm
From $ 23
Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
Don’t let your inevitable new fascination with Barcelona’s Modernism architecture stop at La Sagrada Familia: Just a short walk away and you can explore another architectural masterpiece, Sant Pau Recinte Modernista. The complex of buildings served as a hospital until 2009, and is now home to a knowledge center consisting of various institutions, and loads of curious corners for outside visitors to discover.
The open-to-the-public space is an underrated wonderland of art nouveau architecture, which features colorful mosaic detailing, fanciful facades, and stroll-worthy gardens. Explore the property and its relatively crowd-free pavilions on a self-guided tour, or opt for one of the guided visits, which take place at least once a day in various languages. Meanwhile, if you like what you see, you won’t want to miss out on other Modernism buildings around town such as La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and Casa Amatller - among many more.
Practical Info
Guided visits occur at least once a day in a variety of languages. English tours take place at noon and 1 p.m.; consult the website for the times of other languages. If you’re keen to explore more of the city’s architectural history, consider joining a Barcelona Modernism guided tour.
Address: C. Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
Hours: Hours vary
Admission: Self-guided visit: €10; guided visit: €16
From $ 16
Santa Maria de las Cuevas Monastery (La Cartuja)
Built in the 15th century, this honey-colored stone monastery was frequently visited by Christopher Columbus. In fact, he was buried here for a number of years. With a deep religious history, the site now houses the Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo, a center for local contemporary art.
First a chapel and monastery, it evolved into barracks after a Napoleonic invasion and later became a ceramics factory before finally being established as a national monument and museum. The grounds include a dramatic entrance gate, expansive gardens, a lake, tower, and many outdoor patios. It was extensively restored in preparation for the Seville Expo in 1992, but historical remnants of each stage of its past can still be found.
The art museum’s permanent collection includes works from artists such as Luis Gordillo, Candida Hofer, and Louise Bourgeois and focuses on Andalusian creativity. Various workshops, concerts, and temporary exhibitions are also held here year-round.
Practical Info
Located on the Isla de la Cartuja in Seville, the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm, and admission costs 1,80 €.
Address: Avenida Américo Vespucio, 2, Seville, Spain
Hours: Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm
Admission: 1,80 €
From $ 23
San Antonio Bay
The glittering coastline of San Antonio bay is best known for its gorgeous beaches, tranquil coves, and family-friendly resorts. In contrast, the nearby town of San Antonio is a clubber’s paradise with round-the-clock parties.
The Basics
Visitors come to San Antonio Bay for the beaches, and there are plenty of ways to explore the coast. The bay’s small islands offer ample opportunities for an island-hopping cruise, and a number of notable snorkeling and scuba diving sites dot the bay. Thrill-seekers can try their hand at water sports such as parasailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding; zip along the shore on a Jet Ski; or try adrenaline-fuelled activities such as flyboarding.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beaches in San Antonio bay typically have sunbeds and parasols available to rent, lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas (in peak season), restrooms and showers, and beachside bars, shops, and restaurants.
- As well as sunscreen, a hat, and some cash (for beachside amenities and activities), carry your passport (or a photocopy)—it’s often required for credit card payments or booking activities.
- Most of the bay’s beaches are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
San Antonio Bay is located on the western coast of Ibiza. San Antonio town is the gateway to the bay’s beaches with buses, ferries, water taxis, and taxis running to the many beach resorts. From Ibiza International Airport, it’s about a 45-minute bus ride or a 25-minute taxi ride to San Antonio.
When to Get There
High season in Ibiza runs from June to September, when the clubbing season is in full swing, and tours and accommodation can book up quickly, especially in the busiest month of August. Budget travelers or those hoping to avoid the crowds should consider an off-season visit—many resorts offer more favorable prices in May and October, and the weather should still be hot enough to accommodate swimming, sunbathing, and boat tours.
The Beaches of San Antonio Bay
From San Antonio town, the easiest-to-reach beaches include Es Puet beach, which has shallow water ideal for swimming or families with children; while ferries run to S'Estanyol and Playa Pinet beaches with ample water sports options. Scenic Cala de Bou has a number of seafront bars from which to watch the sunset. At the western edge of the bay, Port d'es Torrent is often less crowded and is a popular spot for snorkeling or for walks through the coastal pine forests.
Address: San Antonio Bay, Ibiza, Spain, Spain
From $ 87
Sant Sadurni d'Anoia
The municipality of Sant Sadurni d'Anoia is the center of production for cava, Spain’s version of Champagne. The area is home to some 100 wineries specializing in the production and export of the sparkling wine, and travelers can visit vineyards, tour production facilities, and taste some of Spain’s best cavas at their source.
The Basics
Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is one of the most popular wine-tasting destinations from Barcelona. Many of the area wineries have tasting rooms in the town center, and others offer tours of their vineyards and production facilities. Guided day trips to the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat include an afternoon of cava tasting. It’s also possible to spend an entire day hopping from one tasting room to the next, sampling wines and olive oils.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for time spent walking through town or in the vineyards.
- Wine tasting day trips typically last five to eight hours, or longer if a stop at Montserrat is included.
- Most tours of the area include hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona.
How to Get There
The town of Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is located 31 miles (50 kilometers) west of Barcelona and is most easily reached by car via the A-7 highway. If you don’t have a car, take the R4 rail line that connects Barcelona to Manresa.
When to Get There
There isn’t a bad time to visit Sant Sadurni d’Anoia, as the weather tends to be dry throughout the year. Temperatures and humidity can be high in the summer months, however, making spring and autumn more appealing seasons. Each winery maintains its own hours, so check before your visit.
Festivals in Sant Sadurni
This small town packs a big punch when it comes to festivals. For wine lovers, the best time to visit is during the annual Cava Week in mid-October. Gastronomic May showcases the region’s culinary products and cuisine, while each of the town’s eight neighborhoods hosts traditional feasts throughout the summer. The festival celebrating the town’s patron saint takes place at the end of November.
Address: Sant Sadurni d'Anoia, Spain
From $ 68
Santa Maria del Pi Basilica
Standing tall in the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter) of Barcelona, the Santa Maria del Pi is a 14th century church in the Placa del Pi. Its Gothic architecture, including the many gargoyles and the large Gothic arch that frames its entrance, remain well intact. Its octagonal bell tower rises 54 meters high, creating a memorable mark of the history of this area of the city. Its tolling bell can be heard throughout the day while walking around the Gothic Quarter.
Both the church, the square, and the nearby street Carrer del Pi are named for a tall pine tree that once stood in the square. Though it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1936, it was fully restored and reopened in 1940. The basilica has high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows and lattice work. Its enormous rose window placed at the entrance is of particular note; it is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Both the church, the square, and the nearby street Carrer del Pi are named for a tall pine tree that once stood in the square. Though it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1936, it was fully restored and reopened in 1940. The basilica has high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows and lattice work. Its enormous rose window placed at the entrance is of particular note; it is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Practical Info
The basilica is situated in the Placa del Pi, just a few minutes’ walk from the main street of Las Ramblas in the Barri Gotic. The nearest metro stop is Liceu.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Daily 9:30AM-1PM, 5PM-8:30PM
From $ 6
Santa Caterina Market
Santa Caterina was the first covered market in the city of Barcelona. Since being completely renovated in 2005 with a modern design and colorful, curved rooftop, it has become a celebrated sight in Barcelona. Yet, it stays true to its traditional Catalan market roots. Over 325,000 ceramic pieces were used by architects Benedetta Tagliabue and Enric Miralles to create the kaleidoscope roof, with more than fifty different shades of colors representing the fruits and vegetables sold within. The mosaics recall the Modernista style of architecture Gaudi made famous across the city.
The market sells every type of quality produce and meat imaginable, including fresh pastries and breads. It’s a great place to pick up or simply view the colorful fruit, vegetable and flower stands, along with local meats and fish. Once you’re done browsing the stalls, check out the remains of the 15th century Espai Santa Caterina, the Gothic church the market was built on top of.
Practical Info
The Santa Caterina Market can be found in Barcelona’s La Ribera district, not far from the Picasso Museum. It is open daily from 7:30 am to 2 pm, with extended evening hours on Thursday and Friday. The closest metro stop is Jaume I.
Address: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16, Barcelona 08003, Spain
From $ 17
Santo Tom e
Toledo’s relatively humble Santo Tomé Church happens to be home to one of the world’s most famous paintings: The Burial of Count Orgaz, by El Greco. The star piece was commissioned for the church’s chapel, where the count is buried, and features the burial along with St. Augustine and St. Stephen. El Greco in fact appears in his creation as well, even though the event took place over a century prior to the painting.
The church dates back to the 12th century (when it was built atop a previous mosque) but was later reconstructed in the 14th century with the funds of the aforementioned Count Orgaz, who was a generous benefactor. The building’s tower is distinguished as being one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in Toledo — take note of its typically Moorish horseshoe-shaped bell tower windows. Though Santo Tomé itself may not be among Toledo’s most impressive sights, it’s the famous painting and history behind it that continue to lure the masses to the church’s doors.
Practical Info
Santo Tomé is located in Toledo’s Jewish quarter, which sits west of the main cathedral.
Address: Plaza del Conde, 4, Toledo, Castilla La Mancha 45002, Spain
Hours: March 1 to October 15: 10 a.m.-6:45 p.m.; October 16 to February 28: 10 a.m.-5:45 p.m.
Admission: €2,50; accredited school groups: €2,20
From $ 13
Santa María la Blanca Synagogue
Historically, Toledo is noted in Spain for having once flourished as a cultural crossroads, with three religions – Judaism, Islam and Christianity – coexisting together peacefully. And there is perhaps no better physical representation of this time than the Santa María la Blanca Synagogue. Claimed to be the oldest synagogue in Europe, it was built during Christian times by Moorish architects for Jewish use.
You can see this complex intersection of history and styles all represented in the small space. For example, there are the Mudejar horseshoe arches, the 16th-century Christian altarpiece, and the layout, which, while it has elements reminiscent of a mosque, was constructed as a synagogue. Though its original purpose was, of course, to be a synagogue, come the early 14th century, it was converted into a church, serving various purposes since. The space may be small and simple compared to some of Toledo’s grander sights, but there’s certainly more than meets the eye here in terms of history, making it a worthwhile place to see and contemplate.
Practical Info
The synagogue is located in the Jewish quarter, which sits in the western part of the old town. If you plan on visiting the synagogue and other popular attractions, consider buying a pulsera turística (tourist wristband), which gains you discounted access to 6 of the city’s top sights. Wristbands can be purchased at attraction entrances.
Address: Calle Reyes Católicos 2, Toledo, Castilla La Mancha 45002, Spain
Hours: May 1st to October 30th: 10 a.m.-6:45 p.m.; October 31st to April 30th: 10 a.m.-5:45 p.m.
Admission: €2,50
From $ 13
Sanctuary of Loyola
In 1491, on the once much humbler site of this enormous and ornate Mudejár-style shrine that is the Sanctuary of Loyola, a family of minor nobility welcomed its 13th child, who would one day change the world. San Ignatius Lopéz de Loyola, a soldier turned to the priesthood by his strange visions, founded the Brotherhood of Jesus, or Jesuit order, whose radical interpretation of Catholicism left its mark on both the New and Old World.
A place of pilgrimage and wonder for the devout and secular alike, San Ignatius' former home has been transformed with Chirriguerresque flair into a grand compound. In addition to the basilica and shrine, there is an art museum displaying a few of his belongings and writings, as well as religious objects collected over the centuries. Shrines to other Jesuit saints are also arranged around the grounds.
The gardens and surrounding mountains make a fine backdrop to the scene, and you're welcome to stay on at their inexpensive hostel.
Practical Info
The best time to visit is July 31, the feast day of San Ignatius. Buses run between Apeita and Azkoitla, stopping off at the Santuario. To get here by car, take the A-8 between Elgolbar and Zarautz, exiting south to Azpeitia and Azkoitla; the sanctuary is signed.
Address: G1631, Azpeitia 20730, Spain
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 87
San Nicolas Cathedral
Built between 1614 and 1662, this towering cathedral was designed by Agustin Bernardino and erected on the same site as a historic mosque. An impressive nave and six side chapels surround the sky-high blue dome at the center of the altar. Travelers say the chapel of the Holy Communion is one of the cathedral’s most beautiful and a striking example of Spanish Baroque architecture and design.
Despite its unassuming (and rather bare) exterior, the interior of San Nicolas is something to behold. In addition to the quiet chapels, visitors will find a raised pipe organ and quiet cloisters with well-tended gardens.
Practical Info
The cathedral is located in Plaza de Abad Penalva in Alicante. The main façade is on the east side of the church. Masses take place in Spanish every hour on Sunday mornings.
Address: Plaza de Abad Penalva, Alicante, Spain
From $ 29
Sanctuary of Arantzazu
This Franciscan sanctuary set against the Aizkorri mountain range carries both spiritual and historical significance for many pilgrims to the site. Tradition states that Virgin appeared in a hawthorn bush, prompting witnesses to ask "Arantzan zu?" (Is it you in the hawthorn?), giving the place its name and bringing thousands of years of pilgrims and art devoted to it.
The area has suffered multiple fires and seen many restorations since then, most recently in the 1950s with a beautiful monastery that stands picturesquely on the edge of the mountain. It sits at the base of the road leading to the highest mountain in the Basque Country, surrounded by the valley’s trees and ravines, and has since become a symbol for avant-garde architecture. Sculptor Jorge Oteiza created the 14 apostles on the façade, while the iron gates were designed by Eduardo Chillida and paintings by Nestor Basterretxea and Lucio Muñoz.
Practical Info
The Sanctuary is located nine kilometers away from the center of Oñati. It is within the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, which makes it a convenient base for many of the hiking trails there.
Address: Barrio de Arantzazu, 8, Oñati, Guipúzcoa, Gipuzkoa, Spain 20560, Spain
From $ 75