13 Amazing City Breaks in Spain (with Experience & Insider Tips!)

Spain on your mind? Ditch the usual suspects! This ain’t just about Barcelona beaches (although, those are pretty amazing too). We’re talking about hidden gems, historic havens, and beautiful cities that ooze charm. Get ready to flamenco your way through 13 unforgettable Spanish city breaks – your Instagram feed won’t know what hit it!

1. Let’s start with Spain’s capital: Madrid

Okay, I’m biased since I live here, but Madrid is the ultimate Spain city break. Think rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class museums packed into a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Art lover? History buff? Foodie? Madrid is your playground! Imagine strolling past the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the bustling Gran Vía (where everything’s open all night long!)

Museum-wise, it’s a knockout. The Prado is a treasure trove of Spanish masters like Velázquez and Goya. The Reina Sofía will blow your mind with modern masterpieces (including Picasso’s iconic “Guernica”). And let’s talk tapas! The city is a foodie paradise overflowing with local flavors. Basically, Madrid delivers the perfect Spanish city break and has the perfect airport to connect you to more amazing Spanish adventures!

Places in Madrid you have to visit!

1. Royal Palace of Madrid – One of the largest and most impressive palaces in Europe, the Royal Palace of Madrid is a must-visit attraction. The palace boasts over 3,000 rooms, beautiful gardens, and stunning artwork.
2. Plaza Mayor – The heart of Madrid’s old town, the Plaza Mayor is a beautiful square surrounded by stunning and elegant art nouveau buildings. It’s a great place to sit and people-watch, with plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
3. Puerta del Sol – One of the most famous landmarks in Madrid, the Puerta del Sol is the bustling center of the city.
4. Gran Vía – Known as the “Broadway of Madrid,” Gran Vía is a bustling street lined with shops, theaters, and cinemas. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s energy and do some shopping.
5. Retiro Park – One of Madrid’s most beautiful green spaces, the Retiro Park is a vast oasis in the heart of the city.

I wrote a lot of different guides with so many tips for visiting Madrid which you can find here.

2. Barcelona, Spain’s cosmopolitan melting pot

Spain’s most popular and perfect city break for good reason! It’s a feast for the eyes, from Gaudí’s architectural wonders (the Sagrada Familia is a MUST) to the vibrant street art scene. Add in a buzzing food scene (hit La Boqueria market for gourmet goodies!), stunning beaches, and that laid-back Mediterranean vibe, and you’ve got the perfect city escape.

Pro tip: Gaudí fans, book those Park Güell and Casa Batlló tickets early! These masterpieces get crowded, but they’re absolutely worth seeing.

Is Barcelona calling your name? With its mix of culture, sun, and sheer energy, it’s easy to see why!

Places you have to visit in Barcelona:

1. Sagrada Familia – One of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is a breathtaking basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi. It’s known for its intricate façade and soaring towers that dominate the city’s skyline.
2. Park Guell – Another masterpiece by Gaudi, Park Guell is a stunning park filled with whimsical sculptures, colorful mosaics, and breathtaking views of the city. It’s a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in architecture and design.
3. Casa Batllo – One of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings, Casa Batlló is another masterpiece by Gaudi. It’s known for its organic shapes, colorful tiles, and a stunning rooftop terrace with views of the city.
4. La Pedrera – A stunning modernist building designed by Gaudi, La Pedrera is a must-visit attraction in Barcelona.
5. Gothic Quarter – The historic heart of Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter is a labyrinthine maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and picturesque squares. It’s home to a range of attractions, including the Barcelona Cathedral and the Picasso Museum.

I wrote several travel guides for visiting Barcelona which you can find here.

3. Valencia, the perfect city break destination in Spain

Valencia, a coastal city, is so underrated but so worth visiting! If you’re looking for underrated places for Spainish city breaks, Valencia should definitely be on your list. This beautiful city is often overlooked in favor of Madrid or Barcelona. But it has so much to offer that will surprise and delight you. Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain, located on the east coast of the country. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, Valencia is a destination that has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of Valencia is the historic center of the city, which is home to the famous cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with intricate carvings and impressive towers.

Valencia is also home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. This complex features a planetarium, an opera house, and an aquarium. The Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe, is particularly impressive.

Foodies will be delighted to discover that Valencia is the birthplace of paella, the famous rice dish that has become a staple of Spanish cuisine. There are many restaurants in Valencia that serve delicious paella, as well as other local specialties such as fideuà. And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.

5 places you have to visit in Valencia:

1. City of Arts and Sciences – One of the most famous landmarks in Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences is a stunning futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava.
2. Central Market – A bustling food market in the heart of Valencia, the Central Market is a must-visit attraction for foodies. It’s known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and its vast array of fresh produce, seafood, and meats.
3. Torres de Serranos – One of Valencia’s most iconic landmarks, the Torres de Serranos is a stunning Gothic gate that dates back to the 14th century.
4. Silk Exchange – A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Silk Exchange is a stunning Gothic building that dates back to the 15th century. It’s known for its intricate carvings, stunning frescoes, and beautiful courtyard.
5. Oceanografic – A stunning aquarium located within the City of Arts and Sciences, the Oceanografic is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in marine life.

I wrote a guide for visiting Valencia which you can find here.

4. Sevilla, Andalusia’s beautiful gem

Sevilla tiene un color especial! Next on our list for city breaks in Spain, Sevilla is a true gem that should definitely be on your list. Located in the heart of Andalusia, Sevilla is a vibrant city that’s full of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. From the stunning Alcázar Palace to the iconic Giralda tower, Sevilla is a city that will take your breath away. It’s also home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, which houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. But Sevilla is not just about history and culture! It’s also a city that’s full of life, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops to discover. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Sevilla is the perfect destination for Spain city breaks.

But Sevilla is not just about history and culture – it’s also a city that’s full of life. The streets of Sevilla are lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, where you can experience the best of Andalusian cuisine and hospitality. From tapas to Andalusian dishes, Sevilla is a food lover’s paradise, and you can enjoy a meal while soaking up the atmosphere in one of the city’s many outdoor terraces. And if you’re looking for some retail therapy, Sevilla has a range of shopping options, from traditional markets to high-end boutiques.

With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Sevilla should be on top of your Spain city breaks list. But be careful! Sevilla has especially hot weather during the summer months. Take that into account when planning your city break!

5 Places in Sevilla you have to visit!

1. Alcazar of Seville – One of Seville’s most iconic landmarks, the Alcazar of Seville is a stunning palace complex that dates back to the 14th century. It’s known for its beautiful Moorish architecture, stunning gardens, and rich history.
2. Cathedral of Seville – A massive Gothic cathedral that’s one of the largest in the world, the Cathedral of Seville is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive artwork, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
3. Plaza de España – A stunning plaza located in Maria Luisa Park, the Plaza de España is a beautiful example of Renaissance Revival architecture.
4. Metropol Parasol – A unique attraction in Seville, the Metropol Parasol is a stunning wooden structure that’s one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
5. Santa Cruz – Seville’s old Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz is a beautiful neighborhood filled with narrow streets, beautiful squares, and stunning architecture. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s history and culture.

5. Cádiz, the destination for a dreamy city break 

Cádiz will always be one of my favorite Spanish cities, which is why I really wanted to mention it here. If you’re looking for a unique and exciting city break destination in Spain, Cádiz is the perfect choice. Located on the southern Spain, on the coast of Andalusia, Cádiz is a charming city that’s full of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

One of the main attractions of Cadiz is its historic center, which is one of the oldest in Europe. The city’s narrow streets are lined with ancient buildings that date back to the Roman era, and the Cádiz Cathedral, with its impressive golden dome, is a must-visit landmark. The city’s seafront promenade, which stretches for miles, is also a popular attraction, and is the perfect place to take a stroll and soak up the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Cádiz is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. The city’s coastline is dotted with sandy coves and stretches of golden sand, and is a popular destination for surfers, sunbathers, and water sports enthusiasts. La Caleta Beach is a must-visit, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque castle backdrop.

The city’s traditional taverns, tapas bars, and seafood restaurants are renowned throughout Spain, and offer a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage. With its warm climate, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery, Cádiz is one the perfect destination for city breaks in Spain.

5 Places you cannot miss in Cádiz:

1. Cathedral of Cádiz – A beautiful Baroque cathedral located in the heart of Cadiz, the Cathedral of Cadiz is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, beautiful altarpieces, and impressive artwork.
2. Torre Tavira – A beautiful watchtower located in the heart of Cadiz, Torre Tavira is a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the city. It’s known for its stunning views, fascinating history, and impressive camera obscura.
3. Castle of San Sebastian – A beautiful fortress located on a small island off the coast of Cadiz, the Castle of San Sebastian is a must-visit attraction for history buffs.
4. Oratorio de San Felipe Neri – A beautiful church located in the heart of Cadiz, the Oratorio de San Felipe Neri is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture.
5. Gran Teatro Falla – A beautiful theater located in the heart of Cadiz, the Gran Teatro Falla is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the arts.

6. Don’t miss out on the North of Spain: Santander

Let’s take an turn and head over to the North of Spain and talk about Santander. Located on the Bay of Biscay, Santander is a charming coastal city that boasts stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and rich history.

Santander’s breathtaking beaches are a must-see attraction. From the urban Playa del Sardinero to the more secluded Playa de la Magdalena, there is no shortage of picturesque coastlines to explore. The nearby beaches of El Puntal and Langre are also popular spots for surfers and water sports enthusiasts.

Beyond Santander, the northern region of Spain is home to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. From the rugged mountains of the Picos de Europa to the charming fishing villages of the Basque Country, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore. The region is also famous for its culinary offerings, with world-renowned dishes such as pintxos and sidra originating here.

Getting to Santander for a city break is easy, with direct flights from many major European cities. Once you arrive, getting around is also a breeze, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system. If you’re looking for a city break destination in Spain that offers stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, look no further than Santander and the surrounding region.

With its stunning landscapes, charming cities, and warm hospitality, the north of Spain is a destination that is sure to leave you feeling enchanted. 

5 Places in Santander you cannot miss:

1. Palacio de la Magdalena – A stunning palace located on a peninsula overlooking Santander Bay, the Palacio de la Magdalena is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and rich history.
2. Cathedral of Santander – A beautiful Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Santander, the Cathedral of Santander is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive artwork, and rich history.
3. Jardines de Pereda – A beautiful park located in the heart of Santander, Jardines de Pereda is a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty. It’s known for its stunning gardens, beautiful fountains, and picturesque views of the bay.
4. Centro Botin – A stunning cultural city centre located on the waterfront in Santander, Centro Botin is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the arts. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, impressive exhibitions, and stunning views of the sea.
5. Mercado del Este – A bustling food market located in the heart of Santander, Mercado del Este is a must-visit attraction for foodies. It’s known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and vibrant atmosphere.

I wrote a travel guide about visiting Santander that you can find here.

7. Bilbao, Spain’s gorgeous city in the North

Let’s talk about more gems and city breaks in the North of Spain. When planning a city break in Spain, Bilbao and the north of the country might not be the first destinations that come to mind, but they should be. Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is a vibrant and cultural hub that offers visitors a unique blend of modern and traditional Spain.

One of the main attractions of Bilbao is the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. The museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art and is a must-visit for any art enthusiast. The city is also home to the stunning Casco Viejo, or old town, where you can wander through narrow streets and enjoy the traditional Basque architecture.

In addition to Bilbao, the north is home to numerous charming Spanish cities, each with their own unique attractions. 

The north of Spain is also home to some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes, including the Picos de Europa mountain range and the Basque Coast Geopark. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, as well as explore charming fishing villages and idyllic countryside scenery. If you happen to be in the North of Spain, make sure to check Bilbao out for a Spain city break!

5 Places in Bilbao you cannot miss:

1. Palacio de la Magdalena – A stunning palace located on a peninsula overlooking Santander Bay, the Palacio de la Magdalena is a must-visit attraction.
2. Cathedral of Santander – A beautiful Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Santander, the Cathedral of Santander is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive artwork, and rich history.
3. Jardines de Pereda – A beautiful park located in the heart of Santander, Jardines de Pereda is a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty. It’s known for its stunning gardens, beautiful fountains, and picturesque views of the bay.
4. Centro Botin – A stunning cultural center located on the waterfront in Santander, Centro Botin is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the arts.
5. Mercado del Este – A bustling food market located in the heart of Santander, Mercado del Este is a must-visit attraction for foodies. It’s known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and vibrant atmosphere.

9. San Sebastián, probably the most beautiful Spanish city

I can’t wait to tell you all about San Sebastián, one of my favorite cities in Spain. San Sebastián, located in the North of Spain, is often described as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With its stunning beaches, picturesque Old Town, and world-renowned cuisine, San Sebastián is one of the best most vibrant city breaks in Spain’s North.

One of the highlights of a trip to San Sebastián is exploring the Old Town, or Parte Vieja, where you can stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional Basque houses and discover hidden squares and charming cafes. Another must-visit attraction in San Sebastián is La Concha Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Europe. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and offers spectacular views of the city’s bay and surrounding hills. Additionally, visitors can explore the Peine del Viento (Wind Comb), a unique outdoor sculpture installation located at the foot of the cliffs by the beach.

San Sebastián is also known for its world-class cuisine, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and pintxo bars (similar to tapas) throughout the city. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as grilled octopus, bacalao (salt cod), and txakoli wine, while taking in the lively and convivial atmosphere of the local bars.

5 Places to see in San Sebastián:

1. La Concha Beach – A stunning crescent-shaped beach located in the heart of San Sebastian, La Concha Beach is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful golden sand, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the bay.
2. Monte Urgull – A beautiful hill overlooking San Sebastian, Monte Urgull is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. It’s known for its stunning views, historic fortifications, and rich history.
3. Buen Pastor Cathedral – A beautiful Neo-Gothic cathedral located in the heart of San Sebastian, the Buen Pastor Cathedral is a must-visit attraction.
4. Old Town (Parte Vieja) – A beautiful historic district located in the heart of San Sebastian, the Old Town is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, lively atmosphere, and rich history.
5. Miramar Palace – A stunning palace located on a hill overlooking San Sebastian, the Miramar Palace is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and rich history.

10. Málaga for a city break in Spain on the beach!

Now that we spoke about city breaks in the North of Spain, let’s take another look South. Here we have the beautiful city of Málaga! Situated in Andalusia, Málaga is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning beaches and rugged mountain landscapes to world-class museums and galleries, Málaga truly has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of a visit to Málaga is the city’s rich cultural heritage. You can explore its many historic landmarks and monuments, including the impressive Alcazaba fortress and the stunning Gothic cathedral. Málaga is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, and visitors can explore his birthplace and museum in the heart of the city.

But Málaga is not just a city for history buffs – it also offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by stunning beaches, and visitors can take a stroll along the seafront promenade or relax on the sandy shores of Playa de la Malagueta.

When it comes to food and drink, Málaga will really blow your mind!. The city is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, including fresh grilled sardines and paella, as well as its sweet Málaga wine. Visitors can explore the city’s many tapas bars and restaurants, or take a food tour to sample the best of the local cuisine.

5 incredible places to see in Málaga

1. Alcazaba of Malaga – A beautiful Moorish fortress located in the heart of Malaga, the Alcazaba is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and impressive views of the city.
2. Picasso Museum Malaga – A world-renowned museum located in the heart of Malaga, the Picasso Museum is a must-visit attraction for art lovers. It’s known for its impressive collection of Pablo Picasso’s artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
3. Malaga Cathedral – A beautiful Renaissance cathedral located in the heart of Malaga, the Malaga Cathedral is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and rich history.
4. Roman Theatre – A well-preserved Roman theatre located in the heart of Malaga, the Roman Theatre is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It’s known for its impressive architecture, fascinating history, and stunning views of the city.
5. Gibralfaro Castle – A beautiful castle located on a hill overlooking Malaga, Gibralfaro Castle is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as its impressive fortifications and rich history.

I wrote a complete blog post about visiting Málaga that you can find here.

10. Córdoba, Spain’s gorgeous gem in the South

Córdoba should definitely be on your Spain bucket list! Located in the heart of Andalusia, Córdoba is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. It is a city that will captivate you with its charm, and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Córdoba is steeped in history and is renowned for its well-preserved landmarks, especially its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mezquita, which was once a mosque and now stands as a cathedral. Visitors can explore the winding, cobbled streets of the old Jewish quarter, with its whitewashed buildings and colorful patios, or take a stroll through the charming squares and parks that dot the city.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Córdoba. The city is nestled among the rolling hills of the Sierra Morena mountain range, and there are many hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy in the surrounding countryside. This is one of the city breaks in Spain that is suitable for any kind of traveler!

Cordoba is also famous for its food and drink, with a cuisine that is influenced by its Andalusian and city’s Moorish past heritage. Visitors can sample local specialties such as salmorejo, a delicious tomato-based soup. When it comes to drinks, make sure to order a glass of refreshing fino sherry. The city’s many tapas bars and restaurants offer a range of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.

5 Places in Córdoba you have to visit:

1. Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba – A stunning mosque-cathedral located in the heart of Córdoba. It’s known for its beautiful Islamic and Christian architecture, intricate decorations, and rich history.
2. Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos – A beautiful palace located in the heart of Córdoba, the Alcazar is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history.
3. Roman Bridge of Córdoba – A well-preserved Roman bridge located in the heart of Cordoba, the Roman Bridge is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It’s known for its impressive architecture, fascinating history, and stunning views of the city.
4. Synagogue of Córdoba – A beautiful synagogue located in the heart of Córdoba, the Synagogue is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, intricate decorations, and rich history.
5. Calleja de las Flores – A beautiful alleyway located in the heart of Córdoba, Calleja de las Flores is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning views of the Mezquita-Catedral, beautiful flowers, and picturesque architecture.

11. Avoid the tourists in Girona

Our next destination is nestled in the heart of Catalonia. Girona is a city that exudes old-world charm and offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the highlights of a visit to Girona is the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The city boasts a well-preserved old town with medieval walls, narrow cobbled streets, and colorful houses. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Gothic Cathedral of Girona. Then, you can go explore the Jewish Quarter, or the Arab Baths. Girona truly is a city full of history!

Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy during a weekend break to Girona. The city is situated at the confluence of four rivers and is surrounded by stunning countryside, including the nearby Costa Brava coastline. Visitors can take a walk along the banks of the rivers, hike through the hills, or simply relax on one of the many nearby beaches. Girona is perfect for a day trip from Barcelona!

Girona is also a culinary destination, with a vibrant food and drink scene that showcases the best of Catalan cuisine. Travelers can sample local specialties such as pa amb tomàquet, a delicious bread topped with tomato and garlic. Or what about a glass of the region’s famous Cava wine? The city’s many restaurants and bars offer a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

5 Places to visit in Girona:

1. Girona Cathedral – A beautiful Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Girona’s historic district, the Girona Cathedral is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and rich history.
2. Sant Pere de Galligants – A beautiful Romanesque church located in the heart of Girona, Sant Pere de Galligants is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and rich history.
3. The Jewish Quarter – A beautiful historic district located in the heart of Girona, the Jewish Quarter is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and rich history.
4. Girona City Walls – A beautiful set of ancient walls that once surrounded the city of Girona, the Girona City Walls are a must-visit attraction for history buffs. They’re known for their impressive architecture, fascinating history, and stunning views of the city.
5. Arab Baths – A beautiful set of ancient baths located in the heart of Girona, the Arab Baths are a must-visit attraction. They’re known for their stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history.

12. Visit Spain’s islands and explore Palma de Mallorca

Let’s continue with another of my favorite city breaks in Spain. I am talking about the stunning island city of Palma de Mallorca! Located on the beautiful Balearic Island of Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca is a city that offers visitors a perfect blend of sun, sea, culture, and history.

One of the highlights of a visit to Palma de Mallorca is the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The city boasts a well-preserved old town with a stunning Gothic cathedral, narrow cobbled streets, and beautiful courtyards. Visitors can also explore landmarks such as the Bellver Castle, Almudaina Palace, and the Arab Baths (highly recommended!).

Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Palma de Mallorca. The city is situated on the edge of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and offers visitors stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular mountain landscapes. Mallorca is a true dream and THE island of Spain you really have to visit!

Palma de Mallorca is also a culinary destination, with a vibrant food and drink scene that showcases the best of Balearic cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties such as ensaimada, a delicious pastry filled with cream, or enjoy a glass of the region’s famous wine. The city’s many restaurants and bars offer a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. One of the best city breaks in Spain, if you want to spend time at a beach!

5 Places to check out in Palma de Mallorca:

1. La Seu – A magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca. La Seu is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive stained-glass windows, and rich history.
2. Bellver Castle – A unique and well-preserved Gothic castle located on a hill overlooking Palma de Mallorca. It’s known for its circular shape, impressive architecture, and fascinating history.
3. Almudaina Palace – A beautiful palace located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, the Almudaina Palace is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history.
4. Basilica de Sant Francesc – A beautiful Franciscan church located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, the Basilica de Sant Francesc is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and rich history.
5. Palma Old Town – The historic city centre of Palma de Mallorca, Palma Old Town is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and rich history.

I wrote a whole series about visiting Mallorca, which you can find here.

13. San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a city break in Tenerife

The last destination on our Spanish city breaks list takes us to San Cristóbal de La Laguna! And it is located in Tenerife, which I can really recommend for a visit. San Cristobal de La Laguna is a charming and historic city that offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience.

One of the highlights of a visit to San Cristóbal de La Laguna is the city’s well-preserved historic city centre. The city boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the stunning Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Then, the Plaza del Adelantado, and the Casa de los Capitanes Generales, which showcase the city’s fascinating history.

San Cristóbal de La Laguna is also a culinary destination, with a vibrant food and drink scene that offers a range of traditional Canarian cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties such as papas arrugadas, a delicious potato dish, or enjoy a glass of the region’s famous wine.

The city’s many restaurants and bars offer a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. I have been to Tenerife several times and always loved the Canarian cuisine. It’s so underrated!

5 Places to put on your bucket list for San Cristóbal:

1. Cathedral of San Cristobal de La Laguna – A beautiful cathedral located in the heart of San Cristobal de La Laguna, the Cathedral is a must-visit attraction.
2. Convento de Santa Catalina de Siena – A beautiful convent located in the heart of San Cristobal de La Laguna, the Convento de Santa Catalina de Siena is a must-visit attraction.
3. Plaza del Adelantado – A beautiful square located in the heart of San Cristobal de La Laguna, Plaza del Adelantado is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque fountains, and vibrant atmosphere.
4. Real Santuario del Santisimo Cristo de La Laguna – A beautiful sanctuary located in the heart of San Cristobal de La Laguna, the Real Santuario is a must-visit attraction. It’s known for its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and rich history.
5. Palacio de Nava – A beautiful palace located in the city’s beating heart of San Cristobal de La Laguna, the Palacio de Nava is a must-visit attraction.

The best resources for your city break in Spain:

Booking.com for looking for finding your dream accommodation

If you are looking for places to stay during your Spanish city breaks, try out booking.com. This is by far the most reliable and complete resource for all kinds of accommodation in Spain. Here, you can find all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, bed & breakfasts and hostels. But also places to stay from private hosts are common on booking.com

I personally love using booking.com because some of the hotels sometimes have special discounts or upgrades. Check it out!

GetYourGuide for fun activities on your Spain city break

Every time someone visits Spain and asks me about activities they can do in each city, I always tell them to check out GetyourGuide. GetYourGuide has an extensive offer of all kinds of tours. From Flamenco Shows, Culinary tours and entry tickets for all kinds of experiences in Spain. 

The best thing is that most of the activities on GetYourGuide are refundable if you cancel 24 hours before your booked time. That way you can always stay flexible during your trip!

Go on a free walking tour on your weekend break in Spain:

Free walking tours are my go-to for a city break in Spain! These local-led walks are the ultimate way to get under the skin of a new place. You’ll hit major sights, unearth hidden gems, and hear the stories that make the city tick. They’re “free” to join, but don’t forget to tip your awesome guide at the end – what you give is up to you!

You can all free walking tours in Spain here