Reasons to visit Spain
Spain has been welcoming tourists en masse since the 1960s, particularly from the cooler northern parts of Europe. It may surprise you to know that in 2019, Spain was the second most visited country in the world, welcoming 83.7 million visitors to its sunny, sandy, sangria-soaked shores. And here's why...
This 505,000km² country (more than twice the size of the UK) has 50 provinces incorporating world-class cities, stunning sandy coastlines, Mediterranean islands and even far-flung territories in the Atlantic Ocean, better known as the Canary Islands. Top reasons to visit Spain include almost 400 renowned golf courses, 600 beautiful sandy beaches, 15 national parks, 48 UNESCO-listed sites and a host of beautiful cities showcasing over a millennium of history and culture.
Safe, affordable and easy to reach, Spain has year-round appeal to everyone, from party-loving singles to families and couples of all ages. Whether you want a cultural city break, a gourmet foodie experience, a sand-and-surf holiday on the beach or some wild outdoor adventure, Spain has something for everyone within its diverse landscapes. From flamenco and fiestas to art and architecture, this vibrant country is well worth a closer look.
Spanish cities include the museum-rich capital, Madrid; the vibrant Gaudi architecture in Barcelona; beautiful Seville (birthplace of the flamenco) and the Moorish-influenced city of Granada with its UNESCO-listed Alhambra.
Less visited places have equal charm including the surfing capital of San Sebastian in the autonomous Basque region, the whitewashed villages of Andalucia, the Roman town of Cordoba with its outstanding Mezquita, the charming market town of Ronda with its dramatic gorge and bridge, and the compelling city of Marbella with its lush avenues, exclusive marinas, world-class shopping and marble-paved streets.
Each region has its own particular cuisine and culture, best witnessed by joining in one of the many religious and cultural festivals. From tomato fights and bull-running to beer festivals and food ferias, there's always something new to discover when you visit Spain!