Choose from 459 Fun Things to Do in Spain
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Motril
Home to some 60,000 people, Motril is the largest town that sits along Spain's Costa Tropical. It's a land steeped in history, spanning civilizations that include the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors and Christians. One thing that has remained constant over the centuries, however, is its production of sugar and sugar cane, for which Motril is known. Sugar refineries in the region are in fact plentiful, as are sugar-related products, including the locally famous run pálido, a type of rum.
Motril's town is a maze of streets lined by balcony-adorned buildings, all which reside just a short drive away from the Mediterranean Sea. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada mountain range lingers in the distance, a reminder of inland treasures not far away. Indeed, from Motril you can either go to the beach "“ such as the expansive Playa Poniente "“ or travel to the interior, where you can visit the iconic city of Granada and its Moorish Alhambra Palace, or even hit the ski slopes in the aforementioned Sierra Nevada.
Apart from taking advantage of the beach and neighboring mountains, you won't want to miss sampling Motril's local cuisine, such as fish, and migas (a hardy dish of bread crumbs, most closely resembling Thanksgiving stuffing). And if you happen to be in the region during spring, witness one of the city's most revered and historic traditions: that of Holy Week, which is filled with a spectacle of religious processions put on by local brotherhoods.
Address: Motril, Granada, Spain 18600, Spain
From $ 70
La Caldera
Pine trees, volcanic geography, and views upon views are what you'll find when exploring Tenerife's La Caldera and the region that surrounds it. A volcanic crater, La Caldera is situated in La Orotava Valley, which spans the northern part of the island's central coast. La Orotava is packed with more than just pretty scenery but also trails, including those around La Caldera and its recreation area.
Easily accessible, the La Caldera crater is where you'll find picnic tables and a playground, along with other facilities, including a restaurant. But it's the woodland wonderland that surrounds all of this that you may be more keen to explore, particularly the loop that circles the crater and ventures off into the mountainous landscape beyond. The roughly 3-hour excursion, which begins from the recreation area, passes through the region's mossy, fern-filled terrain, and offers impressive views of Tenerife, including El Teide.
Practical Info
La Caldera and its recreation park are located just off the TF-21, near the town of Aguamansa, which can be reached from Puerto de la Cruz by taking the 345 bus. If you wish to take the circular hike, note that it is relatively demanding. Be sure to bring water and food, as well as layers given that the weather can be unexpectedly damp and cold.
Address: Carretera TF-21, Aguamansa, Tenerife, Las Canarias 38300, Spain
From $ 72
Marineland Mallorca
If your visit to Mallorca calls for a water experience beyond just the beach, then you'll get your fix at Marineland Mallorca. The ocean-inspired amusement park is the place to go to slip down some water slides and to discover the creatures under the sea, including penguins to turtles, sting rays, dolphins, and sea lions.
In fact, it's those latter two"”the dolphins and sea lions"”that are really the stars given that admission also includes checking out these marine animals in an incredible show. The park isn't only about water life, either, as it is home to tropical rain forest animals, too, such as snakes, iguanas, monkeys, and more. And although Viator tours do not include this experience, Marineland Mallorca offers 40-minute dolphin encounters for an additional fee of €65 to be paid onsite.
Practical Info
The park is a 15-minute drive away from Palma and is also in close proximity to other popular coastal resort towns. Note that Marineland Mallorca does offer locker rooms. The beach is adjacent to the park's entrance. To avoid crowds and parking issues, it's suggested you arrive early in the day. Travelers participating in dolphin encounters must be over 7 years old.
Address: C/ Garcilaso de la Vega, 9, Costa d'en Blanes, Mallorca 07181, Spain
Hours: Daily 9:30am"“5:30pm (until 6pm in July and August)
Admission: Adults and seniors €24; children: €10-14
From $ 32
La Pedrera - Milà House (Casa Milà)
One of Antoni Gaudi's most intriguing creations, the spectacular Casa Mila"”also known as La Pedrera (The Quarry) because of its wave-like stone exterior"”caused some controversy among critics when it was first unveiled back in 1910. Today, however, Casa Mila is considered a masterpiece of Catalan Modernisme, with gaggles of visitors coming to see its surreal sculptural roof terrace, the re-created early 20th-century interiors of the Pedrera apartment, and the attic-level Espai Gaudi exhibit, which is devoted to the great Catalan architect's work.
The Basics
Designed to serve as apartments for some of Barcelona's more moneyed inhabitants, this remarkable residential building is now part of the Works of Antoni Gaudi UNESCO World Heritage Site. By day, visitors can explore part of the building with the aid of an audio guide (included in the ticket price). Alternatively, visit at night as part of the Gaudi's Pedrera: The Origins experience, when a mesmerizing light show takes place on the roof terrace. Casa Mila is visited on many architectural tours of Barcelona, alongside other Gaudi gems such as La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long entry lines at Casa Mila.
- For the ultimate crowd-free experience, opt for an early-access, small-group, guided tour that gets you in before the doors open to the public.
- The roof terrace provides little shade from Spain's summer sun, so bring sunscreen and a hat.
- The onsite Cafe de la Pedrera, serving hot and cold drinks as well as food, is located on the ground floor.
- All areas of Casa Mila are wheelchair accessible with the exception of the roof terrace, because of its uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
Casa Mila is located in the Eixample district on one of Barcelona's most heavily trafficked thoroughfares: Passeig de Gracia. Take metro lines 3 or 5 to Diagonal station and walk two minutes from there.
When to Get There
Casa Mila is open daily year-round from 9am to 8:30pm and from 9 to 11pm. In summer, entry lines often go around the block. The biggest crowds congregate in the middle of the day"”avoid them by arriving soon after opening (9am) or in late afternoon (after 4pm).
Discover Other Gaudi Masterpieces in the Area
A five-minute walk south of Casa Mila sits Casa Batllo. One of Gaudi's boldest designs, this eye-catching structure is adorned with a mosaic of colorful ceramic tiles and stained-glass shards
Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 92, Barcelona 08008, Spain
Hours: Mon-Sun 9am - 8:30pm and 9pm - 11pm
Admission: Adults: €22
From $ 16
La Cartuja Monastery (Monasterio de la Cartuja)
The church of the Monasterio de la Cartuja is where Spanish late-Baroque hits its lavish heights. It was begun in the 16th century and building continued for another three centuries; it was never completed.
The Carthusian monks that lived in the Monasterio de la Cartuja lived a humble life. They practiced silence, ate simple vegetarian fare and spent their time praying, studying, working and making rosary beads from rose petals (you can still buy these from the souvenir shop). But their low-key lifestyle must have been made up for by the wild profusion of their surroundings.
Practical Info
The exterior of the Monasterio de la Cartuja is plain enough, but once inside, the eye is fed on cream and brown swirls of edible-looking marble, a courtyard paved in patterned stone, ornate carvings and of course, gilt gilt and more gilt!
Address: Paseo de la Cartuja, Granada, Spain
Hours: Summer: 10am - 1pm, 4pm - 8pm Mon - Sat, 10am - 12pm Sundays
Admission: € 3.50
From $ 49
Majanicho
When it comes to remoteness and volcanic landscapes, the Canary Islands are good at making you feel like you're a world away. And the barely-a-village, bayside Majanicho only adds to that magic. It will have you feeling like you're on an expedition on the face of the moon "“ albeit one that includes surf-worthy beaches and an ocean.
Located along the northern coast of Fuerteventura, Majanicho is"”at least for now"”less a village than it is a collection of somewhat ramshackle houses cuddled up around the watery finger of a bay. Don't expect to find restaurants or shops here, and rather just a rocky coast, and crystal-blue waters filled with the occasional dinghy used for fishing.
And then, of course, there are the surfers -- from windsurfers to kiteboarders and just regular old surfers "“ who know that these secluded waters offer up some great opportunities to catch either waves or wind. That is, however, as long as one takes great caution: the underwater volcanic rock makes these shores a natural booby trap for those not especially careful.
How long this humble paradise will remain so quiet is yet to be seen: a nearby housing develop is underway, and there's word that this charming little bay may be turned into a harbor. Really, though, all the more reason to see it for yourself before it transforms into a tourist hot spot.
Practical Info
Majanicho is located just north of the town of Lajares, and at the end of a short dirt-track road. Though quite close to the town of Corralejo (and its neighboring dunes), this northern corner of Fuerteventura is virtually inhabited, which means the drive takes a little longer (about 20 minutes).
Address: Majanicho, Spain
From $ 55
Palma Arab Baths (Baños Arabes)
Dating back to the 10th century, the Palma Arab Baths (Baños Arabes) are among Palma's most fascinating archaeological sites and some of the last remaining relics of the Muslim era in the Balearic Islands. It is believed that parts of the baths are the only remnants of the Arab city of Medina Mayurqa.
The Basics
Visitors can explore inside the ancient bathhouse, and although the small site is easy to cover with a short visit, it's worth leaving time to stroll around the surrounding gardens, which are set in the grounds of the former Can Fontirroig estate. A popular part of historic walking tours and Palma sightseeing tours, a visit to the baths is often combined with the nearby La Seu Cathedral, Almudaina Palace, and Parque del Mer.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an entrance fee to visit the Baths.
- A short video presentation is included in the entrance fee and is available in multiple languages.
- The Arab baths are wheelchair accessible, although the ground is uneven in places.
How to Get There
Palma's Arab Baths are located on Carrer de Can Serra, just behind the Museum of Mallorca. It's easy to reach the Baths on foot from downtown; they are about five minutes' walk from Palma Cathedral.
When to Get There
The baths are open daily year-round, although open times vary from season to season.
Architecture of the Palma Arab Baths
Believed to be the only existing ruins of the Arab city of Medina Mayurqa, the Palma Arab Baths are thought to have once been part of a nobleman's estate. Built amid the ruins of former Roman, Byzantine, and Muslim structures, the Baths include two rooms"”a caldarium and a tepidarium"”with features including a domed ceiling, horseshoe arches, and a dozen columns.
Address: Carrer de Can Serra, 7, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
La Viña
Get to know the essence of Cadiz during a wander through one of its most beloved old quarter neighborhoods, La Viña. The name, which means "the vine," was inspired by its previous life when it served as land for vineyards. That was, of course, before buildings cropped up to accommodate the city's population, which grew due to increasing trade with the Americas in the 18th century.
Since its vineyard days, this area has been known as a fishermen neighborhood given its easy access to the sea via La Caleta Beach. It should come as no surprise, then, that this is the ideal place in town to sample some of Cadiz's best seafood, particularly pescaito frito, a dish of fried local fish for which Southern Spain is famous. Apart from tapas hopping "” particularly along the main drag Calle de la Palma "” La Viña is also ripe with flamenco bars, and is the epicenter of Carnival celebrations, arguably the city's most important festival. At the end of the day, be sure to take a break from getting lost in the barrio's streets to make a sunset visit to the beach and neighboring San Sebastian Castle.
Practical Info
La Viña is located on the far western side of the city, steps away from La Caleta Beach and San Sebastian Castle. It is easily reach by foot from anywhere in the city's historic quarter, though you can get around to all the sights more easily on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Address: Cadiz, Andalucia, Spain
From $ 53
Palau Güell
Before La Pedrera, before Parc Güell, and certainly before the still-under-construction La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi conjured up a mansion called Palau Güell. This palatial home was built in the 1880s for one of Gaudi's main benefactors, Eusebi Güell. The goal was to accommodate the wealthy industrialist's private and social life, and, after you explore the home, it's not hard to imagine that Gaudi must have lived up to the task.
Acclaimed for the innovative use of space and light, the Modernist palace is especially loved for its main hall, formed by a parabolic arch design, and which comes complete with a star-pricked ceiling (an illusion created by holes in the roof) and sneak-peek windows from which residents above spied on newly arrived guests below. Given its lower entrance fee (with included audio tour) "” as compared to other Gaudi sights "” and convenient old town location in El Raval, it makes a worthy addition to any Barcelona sightseeing itinerary.
Practical Info
Palau Güell is located just west of Las Ramblas and is therefore easily reachable by foot from most places in Barcelona's tourist center. You can also get there by metro, bus and hop-on hop-off bus tour. Note that the palace is closed on Mondays.
Address: Calle Nou de la Rambla 3-5, Barcelona, Catalonia 08001, Spain
Hours: April 1st to October 31st: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. November 1st to March 31st: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Closed Mondays.
Admission: General: €12; reduced: €8; mini: €5
From $ 14
Katmandu Park
The intimately sized Katmandu Park will make other theme parks seem ordinary, as it offers a combination of adventure- and adrenalin-filled interaction. Located just a five-minute walk from the Magaluf beach, and a 20-minute drive from Palma, it's a great place to both escape and savor the heat given Katmandu's indoor and outdoor activities (such as a water park).
Park highlights include its upside down house filled with illusions, mazes and more. Then there's the 4D theater and its rotating shows, 5D experiences suitable for older kids and adults, and even an obstacle-laced K3 climb. Smaller children will especially enjoy the splash park and five-level underwater-themed play area, whereas the whole family can hit the links on the miniature golf course. Food is available within the park, and more options can be found just beyond the entrance gates.
Practical Info
Two different types of entry passes are available: the Passport, which includes visits to all park attractions just once, among other benefits; and the VIP Passport, which allows for unlimited attractions all day. Note that certain attractions may require an extra entry fee.
Address: Avenida Pedro Vaquer Ramis, 9, Magalluf, Mallorca 07181, Spain
Hours: During high season, the park opens daily at 10 a.m. Closing hours vary depending on the date. Closed daily November through February.
Admission: Passport pass, adult: €27.90; child (4-12): €21.90; 3 & under: free
From $ 41
Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona
If you're a music lover, or you simply enjoy American-style food, then add the Hard Rock Cafe to your Barcelona itinerary. Located in Plaça de Catalunya, the city's main square, the restaurant serves up the same crowd-pleasing fare and music memorabilia that you'll find in its other locations around the globe.
The Basics
Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona is one of the city's most popular restaurants, with long waits even on weeknights. Hungry travelers walk in and add their names to the list, or book a 2- or 3-course meal online ahead of time to snag priority seating. Diners can sit inside amid the music collectibles or on the outdoor patio to people watch in Plaça de Catalunya. An on-site store sells Hard Rock Cafe T-shirts and souvenirs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hard Rock Cafe is a popular option for music lovers and those with a hankering for American comfort food.
- Book your meal ahead of time to save time and get seated more quickly.
- The restaurant and shop accept euros and major credit cards.
How to Get There
The Hard Rock Cafe is situated on the southeast side of Plaça de Catalunya. It's within walking distance of just about anywhere in the Old City, or you can take the Barcelona metro (Line 1 or 3) to Pl. Catalunya Station.
When to Get There
The Hard Rock Cafe restaurant is open daily from 11:30am to 2am. The store opens at 9am. Though there's almost always a waiting list, the best times to visit for minimal wait times are weekday afternoons for a late lunch or early dinner.
Highlights of the Music Collection
Like any Hard Rock Cafe, the Barcelona location serves as a mini-museum of rock 'n' roll history. The unique collection here includes a jacket worn by Michael Jackson during The Jacksons' Victory Tour, a guitar played by Jimi Hendrix, a Whitney Houston gown, and a teddy worn by Madonna.
Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 21, Barcelona 08002, Spain
From $ 22
Olympic Stadium
The 1992 Olympics were transformative for the city of Barcelona. With the arrival of the games, areas were restored and construction for new structures was initiated. As such, the city was updated and rejuvenated in many ways. One such structure, which remains a draw for visitors today, is the Olympic Stadium "” which is now home to the city's second futbol team, Espanyol. It was originally constructed in 1929 for the International Exposition, and was updated in preparation for the games. It can seat more than 65,000 people.
A visit now offers a glimpse into sports history, as well as some great views of the city. It was the venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies of that year's Olympics. Walking through the competitor's tunnel, you can really get a feel for how athletes must have felt as they experienced the vastness of the grounds.
A visit now offers a glimpse into sports history, as well as some great views of the city. It was the venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies of that year's Olympics. Walking through the competitor's tunnel, you can really get a feel for how athletes must have felt as they experienced the vastness of the grounds.
Practical Info
To get to the Olympic Stadium on Barcelona's public transport, take the green line of the metro to Plaza Espanya. It is about twenty minutes walking from the station up to the Parc of Montjuic. The stadium is open daily during daylight hours and is free to enter.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Open Daily: Summer 10AM-8PM, Winter 10AM-6PM
From $ 42
Mijas
Sprawled across a mountain slope some 1,475 feet (450 meters) above the Mediterranean Sea, the whitewashed village of Mijas Pueblo still looks much the same as it would have centuries ago. While the historic center retains its old-fashioned air, the Mijas Costa coastal area is dotted with golf courses and modern hotels.
The Basics
Mijas offers a taste of traditional Andalucian life on the Costa del Sol. Stroll the streets independently or join a guided walking tour, which typically covers the town's top attractions, such as the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock (Capella Virgen de la Peña) and the Plaza de Toros (bullring).
Many experiences offer optional extras such as wine tastings, traditional tapas snacks, and live flamenco shows, while some tours include round-trip transportation from Malaga or Marbella. Save yourself the effort of walking the steep streets by opting for an electric tuk-tuk tour or a donkey taxi instead.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mijas is a must for anyone who wants to experience authentic Andalucian flavor.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as you'll spend a lot of time on your feet.
- Because of its elevation, Mijas can be a little cooler than resorts at sea level. Even so, it is usually hot and dry in summer, so bring plenty of water, as well as sunscreen and a hat.
- The streets of Mijas can be hilly in parts and are better suited to those with electric wheelchairs or mobility scooters than manual wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Mijas is 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Marbella and about the same distance from Malaga. The best way to get here from Marbella is by car, taxi, or organized tour. From Malaga, take the M112 bus or the train to Fuengirola, then transfer to bus M122 or M221.
When to Get There
The busiest time in Mijas is usually July"“August. If you're coming during these months, avoid visiting between 11am and 3pm as the heat and sun can make strolling difficult. Late afternoon is a good time to explore the village, as the midday heat wanes.
Malaga's Pueblos Blancos
Mijas is just one of many pueblos blancos (white villages) in Spain's Andalucia region. If you want to visit more towns and villages that have retained their rural Spanish character, consider taking a day trip to Ronda, a mountain village that straddles the El Tajo Gorge, and Casares, which sits dramatically atop a sheer cliff, about 9 miles (15 kilometers) inland from the Malaga coast.
Address: Spain
From $ 429
Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia (Museum of Fine Arts)
Valencia's fine arts museum, the Museo de Bellas Artes, is one of the finest in Spain. Lovers of Spanish art will swoon over the works by El Greco, Goya, Velazquez and Murillo displayed here.
Gothic art is also a highlight, including tempura paintings by early Spanish painters. Perhaps the gallery's most famous artwork is the brooding self-portrait by Velazquez.
Practical Info
The Valencia Museo de Bellas Artes is just north of the Turia Gardens, directly north of the city center. The closest metro stop is Alameda.
Address: Calle de San Pio V, Valencia 46010, Spain
Hours: Tues - Sun 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays, Jan 1, Good Friday and Dec 25
Admission: Free
From $ 122
Museum of Las Fallas
For one week in May every year, Valencia's streets turn into a gallery of giant, often cartoon-like sculptures. Come the end of the week, these colorful behemoths are incinerated in building-high bonfires, illuminating the town and filling the city skies with smoke. Though your visit to Valencia may not coincide with this fire- and firework-filled event, you can still become acquainted with it by visiting the Museum of Las Fallas.
But first, to understand the museum, you must grasp what makes up this wild celebration, and specifically the fallas themselves. The fallas are essentially massive, usually paper-mache-made sculptures, typically infused with some sort of political or pop-culture reference. Hundreds of these creations are erected in city squares and street junctions around town, with each big falla having a miniature version next to it, which is called a ninot. Typically both are burned during La Cremà(which takes place the last day of Fallas), but each year one ninot is saved based on popular vote.
And that's when the Museum of Las Fallas comes in, as it is where each of these small fallas (all the way back to 1934) are on display. Viewing each year's salvaged piece will not only give visitors unique insight into the festival but also into the evolution of the artwork and, of course, citizens' interests at the time. Posters and images of Fallas past are on display as well, providing guests with a well-rounded look at what one of Spain's favorite festivals is all about.
Practical Info
The Museum of Las Fallas is located in the southern part of Valencia, near the City of Arts and Sciences. It is open every day of the week, and is free to enter on Sundays and holidays.
Address: Plaza Monteolivete, 4, Valencia 46004, Spain
Hours: Tue - Sat 10am - 2pm & 4:30pm - 8:30pm, Sundays & Holidays 10am - 3pm
Admission: 1 €-2 €, Free Sundays & Holidays
From $ 17
Museum of Lázaro Galdiano
The Prado and the Reina Sofia are must-see museums when in Madrid, but the often overlooked Museum of Lázaro Galdiano has been called "the best kept art secret" in the city. The elegant mansion housing the collection was once the home of Jose Lázaro Galdiano, a 19th-century Spanish publisher, entrepreneur, and art collector. Galdiano gifted his exquisite collection of almost entirely Iberian art "” including works by Goya, El Greco, Velazquez, Zurbarán, and Murillo "” to the state upon his death in 1947.
Today it is an impressive display of more than 13,000 works of art ranging from sculpture and furniture to jewelry and ceramic, among some of Madrid's finest paintings. You'll also find the work of French, Italian, and English painters on the second floor. The room dedicated exclusively to Goya's work is particularly special, though the house itself with its fresco ceilings and magnificent ballroom is worth a visit alone.
Practical Info
The museum is located on the Calle de Serrano in the Salamanca neighborhood of Madrid. To get there, take the metro to Gregorio Marañón. It is open Monday and Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm (closed Tuesdays.) Descriptions are listed in both Spanish and English, so it is easy to follow along. Admission costs €6 for adults, and is free for children.
Address: Calle de Serrano, 122, Madrid 28006, Spain
Hours: Open Mon and Wed-Sat 10am-4:30pm and Sun 10am-3pm (closed Tuesdays)
Admission: €6
From $ 25
Museu Blau
The latest addition to the Barcelona Science Museum, Museu Blau opened its doors in 2011, and is housed in the landmark Forum Building - a futuristic blue building designed by architects Herzog and de Meuron.
Devoted primarily to natural history, the highlight of the Museu Blau is a vast permanent exhibition entitled Planet Life, chronicling the history of life on earth through fascinating interactive displays and multimedia exhibits. More than 4,500 items are on display, including animal fossils, dinosaur skeletons, rocks and minerals, along with the skeleton of a whale beached on Catalan shores in 1862.
The 9,000-square-meter museum also features temporary exhibition space, a kid's discovery zone and a small Mediterranean garden, plus a cafe and gift shop.
Practical Info
Museu Blau is located in the Parc del Forum around 5km northeast of Barcelona's Cuitat Vella and is open Tues-Sat from 10am-7pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €6.
Address: Plaça Leonardo da Vinci 4-5 Parc del Forum, Barcelona 08019, Spain
Hours: Open Tues-Sat 10am-7pm
Admission: 6 €
From $ 52
Nova Icària Beach
While the masses head to Barceloneta Beach, those in search of relatively quieter shores take their towels to Nova Icària Beach. Located between Bogatell and Barceloneta Beaches, Nova Icària offers a 400-meter stretch of sand, along with all the amenities, including showers, lifeguards, rentable umbrellas, and more.
Its ideal location just adds to the appeal: walking southwest along its promenade will lead you to the nearby Port Olimpic and its many restaurants; meanwhile, head inland and you can explore the Poblenou neighborhood, known for its evolving blend of industry meets innovation. The beach is also a paradise of outdoor activity, including volleyball, ping pong, and water-related activities, such as kayak, paddleboard, windsurfing and more.
Practical Info
Nova Icària Beach is situated northeast of the city's main tourist center, and just beyond the Barcelona Zoo, Port Olimpic, and Poblenou neighborhood. While it can be reached on foot, those that don't wish to take a long walk may prefer Metro, public bus, or hop-on hop-off bus.
Address: Passeig Marítim de la Nova Icària, Barcelona, Catalonia 08005, Spain
From $ 35
Palau de la Música Catalana
One of Barcelona's most impressive architectural feats and renowned for its spectacularly ornate interiors, the Palau de la Música Catalana is one of the city's most popular concert halls. Built in 1908 by Catalan art nouveau architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the venue hosts a range of traditional Catalan folk music performances.
The Basics
A striking redbrick façade marks the entrance to the Palau de la Música Catalana, which also boasts an ornamental balcony, intricate mosaics, and colorful pillars. The interiors are even more impressive, with a lavishly decorated auditorium centered around an eye-catching stained-glass skylight. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the concert hall features decor by some of Spain's most prominent Catalan architects.
Although not renowned for its acoustics, the Palau provides a suitably glittering backdrop to musical performances, making attending a concert here a rich audio-visual experience. The 2,000-seat auditorium regularly sells out, so book tickets well in advance or opt for a guided tour to fully appreciate the architecture. Tours of the concert hall can be combined with an opera or flamenco performance at the nearby Teatre Paliorama.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Palau de la Música Catalana is a must-see for architecture buffs and music lovers.
- Choose between a live performance or guided tour of the concert hall; guided tours last about 55 minutes.
- Be sure to book tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
- Photography of any kind is prohibited during concerts.
- The Palau de la Música Catalana is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The music hall is well connected to public transportation. Take the Barcelona Metro to Urquinaona, or take buses V15, V17, or 45 to the venue.
When to Get There
The palace is open daily throughout the year, with tours every half hour except during scheduled performances. Tours and concerts tend to sell out early, particularly during the summer high season (June to August).
A Modernist Architecture Tour of Barcelona
The Palau de la Música Catalana is one of many modernist monuments in Barcelona"”perhaps the most famous not built by Antoni Gaudi. To get a feel for the work of this period, make sure to visit Josep Puig i Cadafalch's Casa Amatller, as well as Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batllo, and Casa Mila.
Address: Carrer de Sant Pere Mes Alt, 6, Barcelona 08003, Spain
Admission: Varies by event
From $ 17
Hard Rock Cafe Madrid
Thirty years ago Hard Rock Cafe shirts from far-flung cities ranked high on every globetrotter's list of the most coveted travel souvenirs. Three decades later, those shirts carry a bit less clout, but a trip to Hard Rock Cafe still holds the same magic it once did"”particularly in Madrid.
Visitors to this city landmark can experience the ultimate entertainment trifecta"”part restaurant, part club, part museum"”and all a seriously good time. With hundreds of artifacts from the international music scene, including a risque outfit once worn by Madonna and a bass guitar played by Aerosmith, there's also a bright red jacket worn by Little Richard and a handwritten letter written by John Lennon posted on the restaurant wall.
Travelers can stop in for an all-American meal of burgers and fries, explore displays of authentic music paraphernalia, catch a live concert (if the timing is right) or just pop in the shop to collect yet another Hard Rock Cafe shirt. Because it may be 30 years later, but some rock and roll classics never go out of style.
Practical Info
Hard Rock Cafe Madrid is located at Paseo de la Castellana, 2, near Jardines del Descubrimiento. It's open daily from 12:30 p.m. until 2 a.m.
Address: Paseo de la Castellana, 2, Madrid 28046, Spain
Hours: Mon - Sun 12:30pm - 2:00am
From $ 22