Things to do in Spain: a list of the top activities to enjoy

Spain is a fascinating country to visit for tourism. Known for its vibrant culture and rich history, Spain offers travelers an unforgettable experience. From the cosmopolitan cities of Madrid and Barcelona to the stunning beaches of Costa del Sol and the charming countryside of Andalusia, Spain has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of visiting Spain is exploring its world-renowned landmarks, including the Gaudi architecture in Barcelona, the Alhambra in Granada, and the Prado Museum in Madrid. Visitors can also sample Spain’s mouth-watering cuisine, including paella, tapas, and sangria, while trying out the country’s famous Flamenco dance.

Spain is also known for its lively nightlife, with bars, clubs, and pubs that cater to a wide range of interests. Moreover, its traditional festivals, like Semana Santa and the running of the bulls in Pamplona, have become world-famous, and offer a unique insight into Spanish culture.

What should I do in Spain?

Below are the most popular activities you must do in Spain:

Visit iconic Spanish landmarks like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or La Alhambra in Granada
Try Spanish cuisine, from tapas and paella to churros and chocolate
Explore the nightlife in cities like Madrid or Barcelona
Attend festivals such as La Tomatina or San Fermin
Visit the beaches in the south, like Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca
Visit museums and art galleries to see works by Spanish artists like Picasso, Dali, and Gaudi
Take a flamenco dance class or attend a flamenco show
Go hiking in the Spanish mountains or countryside
Tour Spanish vineyards and taste some of the country’s famous wines
Experience Spanish culture firsthand by participating in local traditions and customs.

What is the #1 attraction in Spain?

According to the World Tourism Organization, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is the most visited attraction in Spain, followed by the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Alhambra in Granada.

What do Spanish people do for fun in Spain?

There are many different ways that Spanish people enjoy their leisure time in Spain. If you want to act like a local, here we suggest you some popular activities that Spanish people do in their country:

Going to the beach: Spain is famous for its beautiful coastline, and many Spaniards love to spend their weekends sunbathing, swimming and enjoying the relaxed beach vibe.
Practicing sports: Spain is also a very sporty country, and you’ll find people playing everything from football and basketball to tennis and padel. There are also many great hiking and cycling routes to explore.
Eating and drinking: Spanish cuisine is world-renowned, and many Spaniards love to spend time enjoying good food and wine with friends and family. There are many lively bars and restaurants to choose from, particularly in the cities and towns.
Attending festivals: Spain is famous for its fiestas, and there are dozens of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. From the famous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona to the La Tomatina festival in Buñol, there’s always something exciting going on.
Visiting cultural attractions: Spain has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. From the Alhambra in Granada to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, there’s plenty to see and do for culture vultures.

What do Spanish people do for fun in Spain?

How to See Spain in 7 Days

It could be a little difficult to see everything that Spain has to offer in just seven days, but here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Madrid

Visit the Prado Museum
Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid
Enjoy a flamenco show

Day 2: Toledo

Visit the Toledo Cathedral
Explore the Alcázar of Toledo
Wander around the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter

Day 3: Seville

Visit the Alcázar of Seville
Explore the Seville Cathedral
Wander around the Santa Cruz neighborhood

Day 4: Cordoba

Visit the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba
Explore the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Wander around the Jewish Quarter

Day 5: Granada

Visit the Alhambra Palace
Explore the Generalife Gardens
Wander around the Albayzín neighborhood

Day 6: Valencia

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
Explore the Central Market
Wander around the Barrio del Carmen neighborhood

Day 7: Barcelona

Visit the Sagrada Familia
Explore Park Güell
Wander around the Gothic Quarter

Please, note that this itinerary is quite packed and may require a lot of traveling. It is recommended to have a rental car or to take trains between cities. Also, it is important to note that some of the attractions mentioned require advance booking or reserve tickets in advance in order to avoid long lines.