10 Best Places to Stay in Spain & Top-Rated Hotels for 2024

A large, ornate church with multiple spires sits atop a hill surrounded by lush greenery, with a distant mountainous landscape under a partly cloudy sky. Nearby, a red-roofed building and a tower are visible.

Buenos dias traveler, welcome to your ultimate guide to the best places to stay in Spain! I’m happy to share my experience in this beautiful Mediterranean country and help you plan your trip! 

I’ll share the 10 top places you should visit (okay, maybe you can’t fit them all into one trip), but I also cherry-picked the top-rated hotels for every place so you can book right away! I lived in Barcelona for a long time and visited most of Spain from North to South, and I surely have some insider tips for you!

I recommend you start your trip from Barcelona, Spain’s most beautiful city if you ask me, and then make your way further South or West. It’s super convenient from the logistics point of view as well!

Now remember to book your stay in Spain in advance! In 2023, Spain was the 2nd most visited country in the world with over 85 million tourists! A lot of them are rushing to book the best hotels!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

These are the best hotels available for grabs in Barcelona:

luxury hotel
Rooftop pool area with lounge chairs, rolled towels, and a cityscape view of numerous buildings under a clear sky.
mid-range hotel
A rooftop terrace with red curved sofas, wooden tables, and orange chairs. City buildings and a clear blue sky are visible in the background.
budget hotel
A clean, minimalist room with white walls and green flooring features white bunk beds each with folded black towels on top.

SANT JORDI HOSTELS

Best affordable accommodation in the center

The map below pinpoints all the best places to stay in Spain to help you plan your itinerary:

Map of Spain highlighting the best areas to stay, including Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Costa Brava, Balearic Islands, Valencia, Bilbao, and San Sebastian.
  1. Barcelona: for first-timers
  2. Madrid: an urban atmosphere
  3. Seville: for culture
  4. Valencia: for foodies
  5. Cordoba: for history lovers
  6. Costa Brava: for families
  7. Balearic Islands: for island hopping
  8. Granada: for El Alhambra
  9. Bilbao: for architecture
  10. San Sebastian: for special charm

1. Barcelona – where to stay in Spain for the first time

author of the post with a wide-brimmed hat and blue dress stands in front of a pond, with the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona visible in the background.

Welcome to the city that has it all! And when I say all, I mean sandy beaches, incredible architecture, a rich history, vibrant nightlife, and amazing restaurants! No wonder Barcelona is the most popular city in Spain!

What I loved the most while I lived in Barcelona was the atmosphere. Every day is like a party, especially in the popular areas around La Rambla (map). But then at the same time, you can escape all the crowds and enjoy some tranquility just a few streets from this central Barca street!

Naturally, there are many things to do in Barcelona, and you should surely start with Park Guell (one of my favorites) or Casa Batlló, but let’s not forget about the famous Sagrada Familia

PRO TIP: Consider the Barcelona City Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions in Barcelona. Alternatively, plan a detailed itinerary in advance and book all the skip-the-line tickets you can to save you from all the waiting! Otherwise, you’ll likely be disappointed when you see the long lines to enter Park Guell, Sagrada Familia, and other central attractions (or you might not even be able to get tickets since they sell out super fast).

Barcelona is surely one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, with its unbeatable food (think delicious paella on every corner) and places to visit that cater to all interests. It’s not only grown-ups who love this place; there are many things to do with kids as well!

Finally, Barcelona’s location makes it a great base for day trips! See the 8 best ideas here!

GETTING AROUND: For Barcelona and all major cities in Spain, public transport (buses and metro) is the best way to get around. Traffic is a bit hectic for car rental, but you can use the local taxis to get to or from the airport with large suitcases. In Barca, you can also rent e-bikes to explore the city (one of my favorite ways to get around).

Finding a fabulous place to stay in Barcelona is easy, especially if you do it early (the hotels here sell out months in advance).

Luxury hotel
Composite image of a luxury hotel featuring a furnished bedroom, a stylish lobby bar, and a rooftop pool area with lounge chairs.

This historic hotel from 1919 has a neoclassical façade and double rooms with lots of space! Centrally located near La Rambla, the boutique hotel comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a spa center, and 2 restaurants.

Other accommodation options in Barcelona

Mid-Range
Rooftop pool area with clear blue water, several red lounge chairs, and a building structure in the background under a clear sky. A life preserver is mounted on the wall.

This modern hotel offers private rooms with free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, a sun terrace, and private parking

Budget
A clean, white room with two sets of metal bunk beds, each with neatly folded black bedding on the top bunks. There are lockers numbered 3 to 6 on the left and a closed white door on the right.

The most comfortable and affordable place to stay, ideal for meeting fellow travelers

Airbnb
A modern living room with a sectional sofa, a coffee table, a leather armchair, a bench, framed wall art, and a wall clock. The space features a mix of neutral and warm tones with brick walls.

You’ll love the stylish rooms of this accommodation that has a kitchen and access to an outdoor pool

Things to do in Barcelona 

2. Madrid – best place to stay in Spain for the urban atmosphere

A bustling street in Madrid at dusk, with long exposure capturing streaks of light from moving traffic. Historic buildings with intricate facades line the avenue, while the sky above shows a dynamic pattern of clouds illuminated by crepuscular rays.

Although Barcelona enjoys much more popularity than the country’s capital city, Madrid is a place that you shouldn’t miss on your Spanish adventures! 

Everyone is always on the go in Madrid, so if you’re a fan of that bustling urban atmosphere and like exploring the crowded city streets, then book your tickets already because you’ll love this city! 

This complex capital city is so big that you’ll need a few days to explore it! And before you ask, the answer is yes, there are many amazing places to stay in Madrid!

Most tourists prefer to stay in central Madrid, as this is where you’ll find all the big attractions, the train station, and metro stations for easy commuting! Plus there are many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs where you can eat delicious tapas and drink sangria! And don’t forget to treat yourself to some churros.

As the country’s capital city, Madrid is a wonderful place to explore for people who want to visit museums all day long and important cultural buildings such as the Royal Palace of Madrid and the National Museum of Prado

Madrid’s Royal Palace is the largest of its kind in Western Europe! It has 3,418 rooms and covers an area of 135,000m²! But don’t worry, it takes most visitors just a bit over 2 hours to tour the place.

As the highlight of the urban, modern, vibrant daylife and nightlife, don’t miss the iconic Gran Via Street (map). Plus, one of Madrid’s (and Spain’s) most beautiful buildings, the Metropolis Building (map), is located here!

Let’s dive into the top places to stay in Madrid.

Luxury hotel
Collage of three interior spaces: a bathroom with a clawfoot tub, a bedroom with a large bed and headboard, and a living area with a sofa and wall art.

Set in a 19th-century building, within walking distance of the attractions, this fabulous hotel has spacious rooms with art-decó style! Offering a spa, a restaurant, and a bar, this luxury hotel is surely a keeper!

Other accommodation options in Madrid

Mid-Range
Rooftop swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by glass barriers, overlooking a cityscape with numerous buildings under a blue sky.

This 3-star hotel has awesome modern rooms in the heart of the city, plus an outdoor pool

Budget
A neatly made bed with white linens and two folded towels, flanked by wooden nightstands with lamps, stands against a wall with an orange upholstered headboard and an air conditioner above.

One of Madrid’s most iconic hostels with cozy dorms with blackout curtains for every bed

Airbnb
A modern living room with a grey sofa, pendant lights, a high wooden table with stools, a floor lamp, and a kitchenette containing a fridge and microwave in the background.

A great studio equipped with all you need, including a full kitchen, a comfy bed, and a coffee machine 

Things to do in Madrid

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3. Seville – where to stay in Spain for culture

Panoramic view of Plaza de España in Seville with its semi-circular brick building, renaissance towers, and bridges reflecting over the calm canal, under a cloudy sky.

The capital of the Andalucia region is anything but short of cultural attractions! Often referred to as one of the most beautiful cities in the world (and I totally second that), Seville is perfect for anyone who wants to dive into the country’s past!

Set in Southern Spain, the city offers a fantastic mix of Moorish (Muslim) and Spanish architecture! You’ll need a few days to discover all the amazing things to do in Seville, but trust me, you’ll love every minute of it just like I did! 

Most of its main attractions, like the Seville Cathedral (map), the Royal Alcázar Palace complex (map), and Plaza de España (map), are set in the Old Town and Santa Cruz district, 2 of the best places to stay in Seville. I was lucky to visit Seville without the crowds (it was Covid time), so we basically had the main square all for ourselves! That was really cool!

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic church in the world! This ex-mosque built in the early 16th century is 135 m (442 ft) long,100 m (330 ft) wide, and 42 m (138 ft) tall!

This energetic city has lots of other places to discover, especially after dark! Oh yes, you must attend at least one of the famous flamenco shows! And, of course, let’s not forget about the traditional tapas bars and rooftop bars, they are quite a thing here in Seville, and I’m sure you’ll love it! We visited multiple rooftop bars and it was a blast! Tip: Abba (map) is great one for eats and drinks!

Ideally, spend 3 days in Seville (as recommended by our past contributor who used to live in Seville) to fully experience its vibe!

Luxury hotel
Luxurious hotel suite features a spacious bedroom with a king-size bed, a private rooftop terrace with outdoor seating, and an elegant living area with sophisticated decor.

Set within walking distance from all the attractions, this unique hotel has an elegant design with Arabic-style arches and ceramic tiles! The posh rooms come with a mini-fridge and lots of space.

Other accommodation options in Seville

Mid-Range
A hotel lobby with red chairs and tables, palm plant, framed artwork on red and cream walls, and a checkered floor.

A lovely hotel on a historical street with the most charming interior, ideal for couples

Budget
A neatly made bed with white linens and two folded towels, flanked by wooden nightstands with lamps, stands against a wall with an orange upholstered headboard and an air conditioner above.

You won’t find a better-rated hostel in Spain than this rooftop icon with the most comfy beds

Airbnb
Modern living room with a gray sofa, black and white rug, coffee table, and white kitchen area. Wall art decorates the room, and there is a unique round white chair in the corner.

This stunning penthouse has a balcony overlooking the city, a kitchen and room for 3 guests

Things to do in Seville 

  • Attend a flamenco show in Seville
  • Walk along Plaza de España, Seville’s main square
  • Visit the Seville Cathedral and Royal Alcazar on a guided tour
  • Eat delicious tapas at the legendary Bar Santa Cruz (map)
  • Go on a yacht tour with drinks and food
  • Stroll in the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa (map)
  • Catch a sunset on the rooftop bar at EME Catedral Mercer Hotel (map)

4. Valencia – where to stay in Spain for foodies

The writer in the post observing the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain, standing under an archway with a clear view of the surrounding structures and waterways.

Flamboyant and fun, Valencia is one of the most famous cities in Spain and a great place to visit for those of you who want to enjoy Spain’s cuisine! 

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and they’ve got a few more dishes that will have you roaming around the restaurants after every attraction you visit! 

TIP: Try the signature paella dish at Paella House (map), but you’ll only find a place if you book a table in advance!

And yes, there are many things to do in Valencia, from exploring the peculiar-looking buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences to taking a cooking lesson on how to make your own paella!

This city certainly has something for everyone, and besides its historic attractions like its Cathedral (map, which peacefully guards the one and only Holy Grail), you’ll also get a sandy beach.

You’ll have no trouble finding a great place to stay in Valencia! There are so many amazing areas with great hotels like the Old Town (where you’ll be just a few minutes walk away from many attractions) or Rufaza, Valencia’s hip district with cafes and shops on every corner. 

During my first visit, I stayed in the city center, and then on the second trip I chose a place by the beach and absolutely loved the vibe there!

Luxury hotel
Collage of a luxury resort featuring a spacious living room, an outdoor aerial view of landscaped pools and gardens, and an indoor swimming pool area with lounge chairs.

This 5-star hotel offers the best of Valencia’s hospitality and luxury, and it’s located right on the beach! All rooms are super elegant and come with neutral colors, while on the premises, there are 3 outdoor pools, a spa, and a gym.

Other accommodation options in Valencia

Mid-Range
A neatly made double bed in a minimalist bedroom with wall-mounted lamps, a window with dark curtains, and a small bag on the bed.

Simple, fine lines, and rooms with a minimalistic design! This hotel offers a roof terrace and a restaurant

Budget
A modern kitchen/lounge area with wooden cabinetry, a stainless steel fridge, two armchairs, and a small round coffee table. The space has industrial design elements and warm lighting.

A modern hostel with private pods, free towels, and a night guard in the building

Airbnb
A dining area with a round white table and four green velvet chairs. An open wooden door leads to a balcony, and a plant and framed artwork decorate the white walls.

A bright place in the city center with modern furniture, an ideal base for exploring Valencia

Things to do in Valencia

  • Tour the Old Town and eat tapas in an 11th-century building
  • Take cool pics at the City of Arts and Sciences (map)
  • Learn how to make paella during a cooking class
  • Eat yummy food at the Central Market (map)
  • Get a ticket for the iconic Palosanto Flamenco Show
  • See the legendary Holy Grail at the Cathedral
  • Admire the street art in Barrio del Carmen (map)
  • Visit the Oceanografic, Valencia’s oceanarium in its landmark building

5. Cordoba – best area to stay in Spain for history lovers

View of the Roman Bridge and the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba illuminated at dusk, with the surrounding cityscape and hills in the background.

When you look at the map, you’ll see that Seville, Cordoba, and Granada form this cool triangle with Cordoba sitting right at the top! As I mentioned, Andalucia is a magical region, and this city trinity proves my point! 

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cordoba is one of those places you visit and think time stood still here! Its crown jewel built by the Moorish, the Mosque-Cathedral (map), dates back to the 10th century and has survived all the wars! 

But that’s not all of it! While you’re in Cordoba, you’ll see unique architecture dating back even earlier to Roman periods, like the Roman Bridge of Cordoba (map)!

This ancient city is any historian’s dream come true, and its white-washed and beige buildings will win your heart and make you want to come back! I also loved how everyone puts so much effort into decorating their patios; I couldn’t stop taking pictures of them!

It’s not only the architecture that evokes the past so beautifully. Cordoba has been a major trading point for a long time, and now you can still find many small shops selling their unique crafts. It’s so magical! I must say Cordoba was one of my favorite cities in Spain!

Luxury hotel
Collage showing a hotel with a pool area, a dining area with rustic decor, and a bedroom with modern furnishings and a bouquet of white lilies.

Ever dreamed of staying in a 16th-century palace? Now you’ve got the chance! Offering easy access to the city’s Old Town, this fabulous place still has some of its original wall paintings! Plus incredible lush gardens, an outdoor pool, and a spa center!

Other accommodation options in Cordoba

Mid-Range
A modern hotel room with a queen-size bed, bedside lamps, a wall-mounted TV, artworks, and large windows with curtains. The room has a light color scheme, and a small table with a plant beside the bed.

This awesome place is just a few minutes walk away from the attractions and has an outdoor terrace and a pool 

Budget
A white-walled courtyard with arches is decorated with colorful flowers in window boxes. A tall stone tower with a small weather vane is visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

Beautifully decorated and so affordable, these city center apartments have a kitchen and a balcony 

Airbnb
Living room with open wooden doors leading to a balcony. A cathedral tower is visible outside. Room features a white sofa, glass coffee table, and armchair.

Such a cool place perfect for 3 guests that offers free parking, a kitchen and a balcony 

Things to do in Cordoba

6. Costa Brava – where to stay in Spain with kids

A crowded beach with colorful umbrellas and sunbathers, bordered by a row of multi-story buildings and a lush green hill in the background.

Traveling with the little ones to Spain? I think Costa Brava in Northern Spain may just become their favorite place! This region stretches some 60 km (37 mi) from the town of Blanes, which sits just 1 hour away from Barcelona, all the way to the French border (basically covers the coast of Girona province). 

Beaches, waterparks, and lots of watersports is how I could shortly describe Costa Brava! The beaches here are safe for kids, and the waters are very calm, which is a big plus! Plus, you can spend hours with the little ones in Water World, a large water park located in Costa Brava’s main resort, Lloret de Mar.

FUN FACT: Salvador Dali, the famous artist, was born in Costa Brava, in the town of Figures. There are many museums dedicated to Dali, and you can even visit his former residence in this little town at the Dali Museum in Figures

So if you can convince the kids to leave the beach fun for later, go on a journey of discovering the late artist!

There are also these cute old towns like Pals (map) that make this region special! I rented a car to drive around the area and explore these villages, and I definitely recommend that you do that as well!

Luxury hotel
Collage: Exterior of a hotel with a pool, scenic view; interior of a bright bedroom with blue accents; rooftop view of a coastal town with white buildings and sea in the background.

With a perfect beachfront location, this fabulous boutique hotel offers family rooms with a balcony or terrace, plus tea and coffee facilities. When you’re not up to hitting the beach, chill by the pool with the kids and enjoy some yummy dishes.

Other accommodation options in Costa Brava

Mid-Range
A neatly made bed with dark and light pillows is in a well-lit bedroom featuring a nightstand with lamps, a wall-mounted picture, and a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with outdoor furniture.

A modern beachfront hotel that has spacious rooms with sea views, a restaurant, and a terrace

Budget
A hotel with balconies overlooks a round swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs and palm trees.

This accommodation offers family rooms, an outdoor pool water sports, and a spa center

Airbnb
A modern living room with white sofas, a low wooden coffee table, and three abstract art pieces on the wall. The room is well-lit with recessed ceiling lights.

This magazine-like apartment by the port can fit 6 guests and has a terrace with perfect sunset views

Things to do in Costa Brava

  • Visit the Dalí Theater-Museum
  • Spend a fun day with the kids at Water World Parc
  • Check out Dali’s former home at Salvador Dalí House Museum
  • Try cool water sports at Playa de Fenals (map)
  • Admire the scenic views at Jardín Botánico Marimurtra (map)
  • Go wine tasting at the iconic Costa Brava winery of Mas Molla (map)

7. Balearic Islands – where to stay in Spain for island hopping

Aerial view of a coastline featuring a crescent-shaped beach with turquoise water, several anchored boats, and a backdrop of trees and buildings under a clear blue sky.

The Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera await for some more seaside fun just off the coast of Eastern Spain! From the party capital of Ibiza to the beach paradise of Mallorca and Menorca, there’s something to choose from for all types of travelers!

Think natural escapes, archipelago national parks, delicious seafood, and age-old fishing villages! Seriously, you’d need over a week if you want to properly explore all these islands, but you can also just pick one that best matches your travel interest.

For island hopping, Ferry Balearia is the main ferry line with connections to all 4 islands from Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia (a small coastal city closest to Ibiza). You can also reach the main islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca) by plane from most of the big cities in Spain and many European destinations.

The ferry rides can get a bit long. Valencia to Palma in Mallorca is almost 7 hours, but there are many night departures, so you can basically sleep there. For those short on time or prone to seasickness, it’s best to book a flight from Barcelona or Valencia.

Now let’s explore 2 of the main islands in the Balearics, Ibiza and Mallorca!

7.1. Ibiza – best place to stay in Spain for nightlife

A coastal town with a marina filled with sailboats, white buildings, and a church perched on a hill under a clear blue sky.

This island’s wild party scene is no secret! Ibiza has long been known as the ultimate place to visit in Spain for partygoers from all around Europe! But I absolutely loved the historical buildings and the beaches here when I visited on a solo trip, so I think everyone can visit Ibiza, not just nightlife seekers!

It’s super important to choose wisely where to stay in Ibiza. If you’re coming solely to party and chill on the beach, then look for hotels in Ibiza Town and Playa d’en Bossa. That’s where you’ll find the biggest concentration of clubs, and restaurants. 

And if you’re looking for something a bit more peaceful, I’d recommend staying in areas like Santa Eularia des Riu (map) and Talamanca (map).

PARTY TIP: Pacha (map) is one of the most popular nightclubs in Ibiza Town, and DJs like Calvin Harris and David Guetta have played here. Don’t miss it for ultimate Ibiza fun!

Still, given the party nature of the place, a lot of hotels and resorts here are adult-only. If you’re traveling with kids, definitely schedule the visit outside the season to avoid the party crowds (but also score better price deals).Also, I recommend you get around Ibiza on a scooter or car rental since public transport is limited, differently from mainland Spanish cities.

Luxury hotel
Collage of a bedroom, a living room, and an exterior view of a building with palm trees and balconies.

Enjoy a relaxing massage after a night of partying in Ibiza’s clubs at this fabulous hotel that has big, elegant rooms with breathtaking sea views and a restaurant. 

Other accommodation options in Ibiza

Mid-Range
Outdoor seating area with wooden tables and white chairs, featuring single red flowers in small vases on each table. Wooden panel wall and stone wall in the background with some greenery.

This place has modern rooms, a great location and 3 daily meals available at the on-site restaurant

Budget
A neatly arranged bedroom with a large bed, white linens, a headboard, decorative pillows, and two nightstands with lamps. An open wardrobe with hangers and clothes is on the right side.

Boho-styled hotel near the beach that has a bar, air-conditioned rooms, and free Wi-Fi 

Airbnb
A small, rustic house with an outdoor seating area covered by a wooden pergola, set in a garden with surrounding trees and plants. Stone pathway leads up to the house. Blue sky with scattered clouds above.

A stunning country house with a unique decor that offers an outdoor terrace and beach access

Things to do in Ibiza

  • Dance all night long at Pacha club
  • Explore the Castle of Ibiza (map)
  • Chill on the Cala Gració (map) and Platges de Comte (map) beaches
  • Catch an event at the beachfront Ushuaia Club (map)
  • Visit the largest and oldest market in Ibiza, Punta Arabi (map)

7.2. Mallorca – best place to stay in Spain in the summer

A marina with various boats docked, clear blue water, trees, and a large Gothic cathedral with multiple spires in the background.

Looking for a fantastic summer holiday destination? Spain is filled with dreamy spots where you can enjoy sunbathing on the best beaches, eating mouth-watering food and discovering historic sites!

Mallorca surely fits in that description! The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca (or Majorca as the locals call it) is an island of infinite possibilities! Here you can chase sunsets on the most scenic beaches, explore the mountains, and visit the island’s top attractions.

NOTE: Don’t confuse Palma de Mallorca with Las Palmas, one of the areas in Gran Canaria.

You’ll find most of the landmarks on Mallorca in Palma de Mallorca, the capital city, and one of the best places to stay in Mallorca! I stayed in Palma where we celebrated my husband’s birthday, it was a lovely stay. 

We took a bus to explore the nearby attractions, but there’s a whole island of fun places to visit. That’s why I recommend taking more than a few days here. The beaches around Cala Millor (map) and the clubs in Magaluf (map) are waiting! 

Much like Ibiza, it’s best to get around Mallorca by car rental. If you don’t drive, there’s an extensive network of buses that connects the island with the capital, Palma, and it’s more efficient than that on Ibiza.

Luxury hotel
A collage of three images: a rooftop pool with city views, a cozy bedroom with modern decor, and a stylish living room with a chandelier and green plants.

The Premium Suites at this 5-star hotel are just wow! Luxurious, elegant, spacious, and so tastefully decorated. The location is also great, just steps from Mallorca’s dining scene and shops.

Other accommodation options in Mallorca

mid-range
A modern hotel room featuring a neatly made bed, a small bench, a chaise lounge, wall-mounted lighting, and a framed picture on a white wall.

Set in the mountains, this hotel comes with amazing views, an outdoor pool and a restaurant 

budget
Two people are posing on a large 3D "BCG" sculpture indoors. One person is sitting on the letter "B," and the other is lying down inside the letter "O.

A legendary hostel with a rooftop pool, a gym, and a 24-hour front desk

airbnb
A two-story house with a fenced outdoor pool, patio area with umbrellas, and surrounding greenery, set against a mountainous backdrop on a sunny day.

This stunning and private villa offers a hillside backdrop, an outdoor pool and a golf course view 

Things to do in Mallorca

  • Chill on Playa de Palma (map) or Cala Major (map) beaches
  • Go shopping in Mercat de l’Olivar (map)
  • See the ancient Catedral-Basílica de Santa María (map)
  • Visit the Castell de Bellver (map) and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina (map)
  • Take a trip to the iconic Drach Caves (map)
  • Explore the spectacular marine life at the Palma Aquarium (map)

8. Granada – where to stay in Spain to visit El Alhambra

Panoramic view of a historic fortress on a hilltop, surrounded by lush greenery with a city and mountains in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

The Andalusia region is full of surprises! So far I covered the magical Seville and Cordoba, but that was only the start! Now we’re moving closer to the sea, and we’re touching down in Granada, which is set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains (the views here are fantastic)!

FUN FACT: Granada was under Islamic rule for more than 700 years, and from here the Moorish culture began spreading throughout the region.

You can’t walk 2 meters in this town without seeing something old and beautiful! That’s why I think history enthusiasts will have a hard time leaving this place! Especially after exploring Alhambra Palace (map), one of the most visited medieval complexes in Europe, and a real work of art!

PRO TIP: Book a stay inside the Palace grounds for an authentic Granada experience. I found 3 great options so have a look at this post with the best places to stay in Granada, you’ll find all the details you need!

I recommend taking your time to explore Granada’s narrow streets, that’s how you’ll get to see all its hidden gems, tapas bars and clubs, and of course, all its areas like El Albaicin (map) and El Centro (map)!den gems, tapas bars and clubs, and of course, all its areas like El Albaicin and El Centro!

Luxury hotel
Split image showing a rustic living room with exposed wooden beams, a cozy bedroom with a chandelier, and an outdoor swimming pool in a sunny courtyard next to a white house.

Offering incredible mountain views, and a fabulous decor with a combination of old and new elements, this Granada hotel is so stunning! Most rooms have stone walls, and mountain views and the accommodation offers an outdoor hot tub and a restaurant!

Other accommodation options in Granada

Mid-Range
A modern hotel room features a king-sized bed with white linens, a patterned bed runner, and two bedside tables with lamps. A large window with curtains offers a view of buildings outside.

Set in the Old Town, only minutes away from El Alhambra, this hotel has family rooms and a terrace

Budget
Exterior view of Hotel Albero, featuring a beige building with teal railings, white stairs with plants on either side, and a prominent hotel sign on the left.

Simple yet cozy family-run hotel with breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and rooms with a private bathroom

Airbnb
A living room features a yellow sofa with four cushions, a brown armchair, a round golden coffee table, herringbone patterned flooring, a brick wall, and a window with wooden shutters.

This cozy place is set in a 16th-century palace located just in front of Alhambra

Things to do in Granada

  • Visit El Alhambra on a tour and get skip-the-line tickets 
  • Explore the beautiful gardens at Generalife (map)
  • Eat Andalusian fare at the iconic Restaurante Los Manueles (map)
  • Admire the architecture of the Catedral de Granada (map)
  • Get the best views of the city at Mirador de San Nicolás (map)

9. Bilbao – best place in Spain for architecture enthusiasts

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a modern art museum with a distinctive metallic exterior, stands alongside the Nervión River in Bilbao, Spain, under a clear blue sky.

With access to the sea and a lot of ground to cover, Bilbao is the largest city in the Basque country! 

Perfect for a city break and maybe some longer stays as well, Bilbao offers a unique combination of old and new architecture, making it the place to be for anyone interested in the topic. 

Pay close attention to the buildings set around Casco Viejo (map), the city’s Old Town, where you can see a glimpse of how Bilbao looked a really long time ago. 

NOTE: The Basque Country is famous for its cuisine so while you’re here, you need to try their version of tapas called pintxos!

And when you’re ready to explore more, then head over to Abando, where you’ll find the famous Guggenheim Museum of Modern and contemporary art, one of the largest museums in Spain! 

Bilbao is always filled with eager tourists, so I highly recommend booking your hotels in advance. Although there are many places to stay in Bilbao, the good ones always sell out fast! 

Luxury hotel
Hotel room collage: outdoor patio with a table and two chairs, a spacious bedroom with a large bed, and a bathroom featuring a standalone bathtub against a window with greenery outside.

This stunning 5-star hotel is located just opposite the Guggenheim Museum, and has spacious, modern rooms with 40-inch TVs, a spa and fitness area with a Turkish bath, and 2 on-site restaurants with a rooftop terrace. You can easily spend a whole day just on the premises of this hotel without getting bored!

Other accommodation options in Bilbao

Mid-Range
Modern hotel room featuring a double bed, bedside tables with lamps, a small table, an armchair, and a large window with curtains. The headboard has a vertical stripe design with integrated lighting.

This hotel offers a delicious breakfast, an outdoor pool where you can sunbathe, and rooms with large windows 

Budget
A modern lounge area with a sectional sofa, armchairs, a fireplace, and indoor plants. The space features a combination of warm and neutral tones and contemporary decor elements.

An amazing hostel with private bathrooms and blackout curtains just steps from all the action

Airbnb
A modern living room featuring a gray sofa, a dining table with white chairs, a large window allowing natural light, wooden flooring, and minimalist décor.

Stylish place in Bilbao with an all-white decor, a full kitchen, a small balcony and free Wi-Fi 

Things to do in Bilbao

  • Admire the futuristic-looking Guggenheim Museum 
  • Enjoy a coffee in Plaza Nueva (map)
  • Try some pintxos in Erribera Market (map)
  • Visit the Santiago Cathedral (map)
  • Walk the pedestrian Zubizuri (map) bridge

10. San Sebastian – the most charming city to stay in Spain

A coastal town with multi-story houses on a green hill under a clear sky. A sandy beach and turquoise sea are in the foreground. A person is visible on the beach.

While you’re in the Basque country exploring Bilbao, make a quick detour East to San Sebastian and see all its renowned restaurants, surfing spots, and charming Old Town! 

Think the perfect mix of old and new, world-renowned cuisine with 15 Michelin-star restaurants, breathtaking nature, and historical buildings – so much charm in a single city!

If you’re into a beach vacation, La Concha (map) is the jewel of the region that you’ll spot in all the travel magazines!

The Basque region of Spain is unique for its language, which is not at all related to Spanish. In fact, the Basque language is older than all other Indo-European languages! Its origins date back to Neolithic times, around 5,000 BC.

Apart from hearing this unique language, you can also experience some amazing local dishes in San Sebastian. They have the same pintxos culture as in the neighboring Bilbao, but with a slightly more laid-back atmosphere.

Of course, for sightseeing, it’s best to stay in the Old Town of San Sebastian. But for more details on lodging and other areas worth exploring, check out our separate article on where to stay in San Sebastian!

Luxury hotel
collage with 3 images of: a hotel's bedroom, sunbeds on the terrace and a lounge

Here’s one of San Sebastian’s most iconic luxury hotels overlooking the Urumea River and Cantabrian Sea. It’s set in a historical building but has all the modern amenities you could need, including 3 on-site restaurants and a fitness center.

Other accommodation options in San Sebastian

Mid-range
A modern office space featuring a wooden desk with three chairs, a wall shelf with books and plants, and a logo on the back wall. The floor is tiled with a speckled pattern.

This sea-view hotel has clean, spacious rooms and serves daily breakfast, ideal for couples or small families

Budget
A room with two single beds, each with white bedding and a folded towel. The walls feature colorful framed artworks. There is a small window with white shutters on the left side.

Clean, modern, and affordable hostel with multiple room options and a nice rooftop area

Airbnb
A bright living room with a gray sofa, wooden chairs, potted plants, and framed artworks on the walls. A large window lets in natural light, and a floor lamp stands beside the sofa.

A stunning apartment with 4 balconies overlooking the sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town

Things to do in San Sebastian 

Other visit-worthy places in Spain

Scenic view of a colorful hillside village overlooking a sandy beach with palm trees and beachgoers enjoying the sunny day.

Spain is so big and filled with fantastic places, I couldn’t fit them all in the top 10! These 4 towns and places below are also major tourist spots that you can add to your itinerary:

  • Tenerife – The largest of the Canary Islands and home to the region’s largest carnival, Tenerife is a real treat. I went there on a solo vacation and had a full-board hotel, it was so worth the money! Check out the 6 best places to stay in Tenerife.
  • Alicante – An important port city, beach heaven, and urban town attractive to all categories of travelers! We explain in detail the 6 best areas to stay in our special Alicante guide.
  • Menorca – The 3rd most popular Balearic Island with absolutely stunning natural landscapes and a more laid-back alternative to Ibiza and Mallorca. See the best towns to stay in Menorca.
  • Marbella – An energetic coastal city popular for celebrity sightings, Marbella is an ideal match for luxury travelers, but not only. See the 5 ideal areas to stay in Marbella for all budgets.
🇪🇸 Top city in Spain:Barcelona
👪 Best place for families:Costa Brava
🗝️ Most historic area: Cordoba
🏝️ Top island: Mallorca
💰 Avg hotel price:€80
🧳 Cost of traveling: medium

FAQs about the best areas to stay in Spain

The historic Turia fountain in front of the Valencia Cathedral, with sculptures of Neptune and aquatic creatures, set against the backdrop of the Gothic architecture of the cathedral and the bustling city square.

😍 Where to visit for the first time in Spain?

Barcelona is one of the best places to stay in Spain, especially if you’re visiting the country for the first time! The city has countless things to do, unique architecture, and great beaches! 

👪 Which are the best places to stay in Spain for families?

Costa Brava and Alicante are some of the top sites to stay in Spain for families! These places offer lots of kid-friendly attractions and non-stop beach fun!

📅 Where should I go in Spain for a week?

I recommend visiting Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville if this is your first week in Spain and you’re interested in sightseeing. For a Beach vacation, stay in Barcelona and then head to Costa Brava or Mallorca.

🌞 Which is the best place to stay in Spain in the summer?

Mallorca and Malaga are some of the best places to stay in Spain in the summer. During the hot days, you can cool off by the beach and drink lots of cocktails! 

🇪🇸 Where to stay in Central and Northern Spain?

Madrid in Central Spain and the Basque Country in the North with its 2 major cities, Bilbao and San Sebastian, are great places to stay in Spain!

🏖️ What is the most beautiful part of Spain?

Some will say San Sebastian in the North, others Seville in the South, while the island-hoppers will claim Tenerife and Balearic Islands as the most beautiful places in Spain. This only means that the whole of Spain offers unique cultural attractions and beautiful scenery!

💯 What are the top 3 cities to visit in Spain?

Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville are the top 3 cities you should visit in Spain. 

🧖‍♀️ What is the most relaxing part of Spain?

If you’re into idyllic, low-key vacation spots, then the hidden gem called Galicia may check your boxes. The Canary Islands also offer great opportunities for relaxation along with beautiful scenery.

💸 What is the most luxurious part of Spain?

Barcelona, Ibiza, Marbella, but also the Basque Country have a lot to offer to luxury travelers.

📅 What is the best time to visit Spain?

March to May and then September to November are the best time to visit Spain weather-wise. July and August are the peak season when you can expect the biggest crowds and the hottest temperature, so avoid if possible.

Final thoughts on best places to stay in Spain

Night view of a historic stone bridge and adjacent buildings atop cliffs illuminated by lights.

That’s it, my dear reader, you’ve reached the end of my guide on the best places to stay in Spain! This country holds a special place in my heart and after having visited most of the places on this list, I can only say try to allocate as much time as possible for your stay in Spain! 

Probably my 2 favorite places are as follows:

  • Barcelona – because what’s not to love in the city that has it all: great beaches, vibrant nightlife, delicious foods, and friendly people?
  • Seville – a highlight of my journeys across Spain with so much history and beautiful architecture

Also, a precious tip is to book your favorite hotels as quickly as you can! These are the most popular cities in the country and the best accommodations always go first, so better secure your spot! 

If you want personalized advice on the best places to visit in Spain or would like to share your experience, you can do that in the comments below!

Safe travels,

Yulia


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2 Comments

  1. Traci Stclair 26.04.2023 at 00:09
    • Yulia 26.04.2023 at 20:54

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