If you’re looking to get away this spring, then Spain might be an ideal place of escape. The weather is pleasant throughout the country, but you won’t have quite the same density of tourist traffic to contend with. That means largely unrestricted access to key attractions and facilities, and lower prices for transport and accommodation.
Given Spain’s popularity among British holidaymakers, you’ll find plenty of flights from the UK to Spain – whatever part of the country you’re visiting. But exactly which parts of Spain are worth considering?
Seville: Andalusian Charm and Passion
Seville is a city with a unique kind of charm, which largely stems from its Moorish heritage. The influence of the Moors is evident in many of the city’s most impressive buildings, which showcase a combination of Gothic and Islamic styles. You’ll want to visit the Alcázar Palace and the famous Cathedral.
What really sets the city apart, however, is its culture. This is the place where flamenco is most widely practised, and there are performances held throughout the year.
Girona: Medieval Marvels and Catalan Culture
In this Catalan city, you’ll find a number of amazing medieval structures, most notably in the famous Jewish quarter. The Onyar flows through the city, and it’s lined by the famous Cases del Onyar – a multi-hued series of townhouses that have acquired iconic status.
During spring, the city’s gastronomic culture is especially vibrant, since it’s at this time of year that a number of seasonal dishes are made. You’ll want to make time to sample the local open-air market, which is held in Devesa Park every Tuesday and Saturday.
Valencia: A Blend of Ancient and Modern
In Valencia, the ancient world sits almost directly alongside the modern one. You might walk from the cutting-edge glass buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences to the Cathedral in the Old Town in a matter of minutes. Valencia is also the birthplace of Paella, and sampling an authentic version of the dish is essential if you’re in town.
From charming apartments in the historic centre to luxurious villas in Spain just outside the city, Valencia offers a range of places to stay. If you’re timed the trip properly, you’ll also be able to visit one of the local festivals, too.
Santiago de Compostela: Pilgrimage and Galician Spirit
For those making the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, the Santiago de Compostela is the ultimate destination. The historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, crowned by one of the most impressive structures in Spain: the Cathedral.
What really makes this part of the country, however, is the culture. The region is just to the North of Portugal, and the influence of that country is in strong evidence. You can sample an empanada here, which is a kind of fish pie with a bread base.
