If you can only spend a long weekend in Spain, it’s best to focus on a specific city or a small area in a certain province.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, a cultural city break, or an escape to nature, there’s no shortage of destinations that will tick those boxes.
Recommended by myself and other travel bloggers, here are some of the best long weekend breaks in Spain.
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.
Best Long Weekend Breaks in Spain’s Mainland
Madrid
Madrid is a vibrant city that caters to all types of travelers and can be visited almost all year round. It was founded in the 9th century by the Moors and became the Spanish capital in the 16th century.
While roaming the city’s streets is the best way to experience its magic, Madrid is also home to remarkable monuments, world-class museums, enchanting parks, and must-try restaurants and cafes.
Start by visiting the impressive Royal Palace, Madrid’s top landmark and one of the largest palaces in Europe. Next, Appreciate the artworks at the Triangle of Art (Madrid’s three best art museums – Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza).
Breathe some fresh air at the UNESCO-listed Retiro Park, Oeste Park, or Casa de Campo, watch the sunset at the Egyptian Debod Temple, and enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife scene.
If you’re a foodie, you’re also in for a treat. From cozy brunch places and Chocolateria San Gines’ churros with chocolate to traditional tapas bars and indoor food markets to fine dining restaurants, Madrid has them all.
If you feel like exploring the city’s surroundings, a long weekend will allow you to spend 2 days in Madrid and take one day trip to beautiful historic cities like Toledo, Segovia, and Alcala de Henares.
Read more about Madrid:
- Reasons to visit Madrid
- 4 days in Madrid
- Hidden gems in Madrid
- Free museums in Madrid
- Where to stay in Madrid
- Madrid packing list
- Madrid travel tips
- Fun facts about Madrid
Toledo
By Chelsea Espinoza from Adventures of Chels
For a fun weekend getaway in Spain, head over to the quaint medieval city of Toledo.
Located just southwest of Madrid, Toledo is easily accessible by car, bus, and train (The cost by bus is approximately €6.55, and the cost by train is approximately €14.75).
Toledo itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences throughout its history. Today, this walled city is the capital of the province of Toledo.
While visiting this stunning city, take some time to stroll through the streets within the city walls and appreciate the architecture.
Stop by Catedral Primada, the main cathedral in Toledo, visit the Alcazar of Toledo, and check out the El Greco Museum, which is dedicated to many of the painter’s works.
For a clean, comfortable, well-priced hotel in an ideal location, consider staying at Casa Palacio. It has all the qualities you would need for your weekend getaway. Enjoy your visit to beautiful Toledo!
Zaragoza
By Sarah from Life Part 2 and Beyond
Located in northeastern Spain, roughly halfway between Barcelona and Madrid, is the beautiful and often overlooked city of Zaragoza.
This gorgeous city, the 5th largest in the country, is the perfect choice for a long weekend break in Spain.
A great place from which to start exploring the city is the main square, the Plaza del Pilar. Here you will see the most famous church in Zaragoza, the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pilar (Nuestra Señora del Pilar).
Other notable buildings in the vicinity include the Cathedral of El Salvador de Zaragoza and the city hall.
Then move away from the main square and lose yourself in the gorgeous backstreets of Zaragoza’s historic center.
As you stroll the streets, you will notice just how the Aragonese, the Goths, the Moors, the Romans, and most recently, the Spanish have all left their mark on the city.
But for all you food lovers, the highlight of Zaragoza is undoubtedly the tapas. The best place to find good tapas is around the historic quarter, near Calle Alfonso and the Basilica del Pilar. This area is known as El Tubo, and the streets are packed with restaurants.
Malaga
By Daniela from Ipanema Travels
Málaga is the perfect destination for a long weekend holiday in Spain. Located on Costa del Sol in Southern Spain, Málaga offers the perfect combination of sun, sandy beaches, historical heritage, and cultural activities.
The most famous attractions in Málaga include the Alcazaba of Málaga and Castillo del Gibralfaro – a citadel and fortifications from the Moorish period, built between the 11th and the 14th centuries, the Cathedral of Málaga (16th c.), and the Roman Theatre (1st c. AD).
For the most beautiful views of the city and the surroundings, take a tour of the cathedral’s roof, an experience you shouldn’t miss when visiting Málaga.
If you are an art aficionado, Málaga will not disappoint you. The greatest Spanish artist Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga, and there’s a lovely museum in the city showing his work. You can also visit the artist’s birth house, which has been turned into a museum.
For even more art, visit the Pompidou Centre, exhibiting the famous Pompidou Collection of fine arts, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum, with its lovely collection of 19th-century Andalusian paintings.
To maximize your stay, you can conveniently fly in and out of Málaga’s own international airport. The airport is very well connected to the city by public transport.
Fun fact: You can also visit Malaga in winter!
Valencia
If you love cities where traditional & modern and liveliness & serenity come together, Valencia is the place for you.
Being the birthplace of the infamous rice dish paella, a destination of exquisite architecture, and the host of one of Spain’s best festivals (Las Fallas), Valencia is impossible not to love.
It can also be a great place for an off-season trip, and if you’re traveling on a tight budget, you’ll find plenty of free activities in Valencia.
One of the loveliest areas to explore in this city is Ciutat Vella, with its maze of charming old-town streets and impressive landmarks such as the medieval Valencia Cathedral (home of the Holy Grail), the Art-Nouveau Central Market, the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange, and the Serranos Towers.
You should also roam the trendy Ruzafa neighborhood, take in the coastal fishing-village vibes of El Cabanyal, and visit the futuristic cultural complex of the City of Arts and Sciences.
For a change of scenery, head to Valencia’s green spaces, including the Turia Gardens, Jardins del Real, and Jardins de Montfort.
In the food department, apart from devouring delicious paella, you must try horchata (a sweet cold drink made from tiger nuts) with fartons (sweet sugar-glazed bread), fideuà, and esgarraet.
Read more about Valencia:
Calpe
By Martina from PlacesofJuma
Calpe is a beautiful coastal town and one of the best weekend trips in Spain. It is located in the heart of the Costa Blanca, the so-called White Coast of Spain.
Calpe is especially famous for its imposing Penon de Ifach mountain, which is situated near the sea and nestled between 2 beaches, shaping the landscape of the coast.
Besides this natural wonder, however, other great attractions await you in Calpe.
Beautiful are the long sandy beaches with palm trees, which offer the best conditions for swimming. In addition, there is a picturesque beach promenade with restaurants and cafés overlooking the sea.
A must-see is the colorful old town of Calpe, which offers a wonderful contrast to the modern city by the sea. You will be amazed by the small, pretty alleys as well as the colorful staircases. Moreover, there are fabulous restaurants where you can try Spanish cuisine.
Another highlight is the pink flamingos in Calpe. Yes, in the middle of the city, hundreds of these beautiful animals cavort in a salt lake, which you can observe and photograph.
The airport of Alicante is located about 70 kilometers from Calpe and can be reached by car within a little less than an hour.
Granada
While the obvious reason to visit Granada is the UNESCO-listed Alhambra, a remarkable complex of palaces built during Spain’s Moorish period as well as after the Reconquista, the city is well worth a long-weekend break.
Dotted with enchanting plazas, tapas bars, old city gates, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the 16th-century Granada Cathedral and the Royal Monastery of St. Jerome, this historic city is a delight to explore on foot.
Two areas that will particularly make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time are Sacromonte, the old Gypsy neighborhood (known for its cave homes), and Albaicín, Granada’s oldest quarter, famous for its medieval layout, narrow streets, and white houses.
When you do decide to visit the Alhambra, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, be sure to buy a ticket (or book a guided tour) that includes access to all parts of the complex, from the Nasrid Palaces to the Generalife Gardens.
Seville
Seville is one of the most fascinating cities in southern Spain, packed with photogenic historical landmarks, must-visit museums, gorgeous neighborhoods, flamenco venues, and incredible restaurants. You can spend just one day in Seville, but a long weekend would be more ideal.
Sitting on the River Guadalquivir, it is famed for its three UNESCO sites – Alcázar of Seville (built for the Spanish monarchs), Seville Cathedral (the world’s largest Gothic church), and the General Archive of the Indies.
But this city has so much more to offer. María Luisa Park is home to one of Europe’s most stunning squares, Plaza de España, and the Casco Antiguo (Seville’s historic center) houses the liveliest streets, several 15th-century palaces, and the highly-visited Museum of Fine Arts.
Crossing one of the city’s bridges, you’ll get to the vibrant Triana neighborhood, located on the other side of the river.
Forget about sightseeing and take in this district’s unique atmosphere – wander its streets, go on a self-guided tapas crawl, watch a flamenco show, and buy authentic ceramics.
However you decide to spend your days in Seville, it won’t take you too much time to see why it’s one of the best places for a long weekend away in Spain.
Barcelona
Although Barcelona provides activities for a lot more time than just a long weekend, it’s still an excellent destination for a short getaway.
From UNESCO World Heritage Sites and amazing museums to charming neighborhoods and relaxing beaches, there are dozens of things to do and see in the capital of the Catalonia region.
While you can dedicate one day for a day trip to places like Girona, Figueres, Montserrat, or Sitges, you should focus on Barcelona itself if you’re short on time.
Exploring the city freely is an ideal way to see what it offers, so don’t miss the medieval Gothic Quarter, the multicultural El Raval district, and the elegant L’Eixample neighborhood.
Some of the most notable landmarks in Barcelona include Antoni Gaudí’s quirky architectural masterpieces (Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Mila, Casa Batlló, and many others), Montjuïc Castle, Arc de Triomf, Barcelona Cathedral, and the imposing Expiatory Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Culture buffs will surely love the Picasso Museum and Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, while football fans must visit the FC Barcelona Museum at the Camp-Nou Stadium.
If that’s not enough, Barcelona is also packed with hidden gems, including Roman ruins, quirky bars, lesser-known gardens, and much more.
Cordoba
Often overlooked or only visited as a day trip from Seville, Cordoba is a fascinating, picturesque city with a unique blend of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim history.
Cordoba’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the largest in Europe.
Here you’ll find the beautiful streets of the Jewish Quarter, where once lived a thriving Jewish community, and the medieval Córdoba Synagogue, one of the best-preserved in all of Spain.
It’s also the location of the magnificent Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, both boasting intricate Arab-inspired architecture.
Other centuries-old monuments worth admiring in Cordoba are the Viana Palace, the Roman Bridge, and the Roman Temple.
On the outskirts of the city, another jaw-dropping UNESCO site is waiting to be discovered – the archeological site of Medina Azahara, a 10th-century Moorish-era palace city.
Cordoba’s impressive landmarks, along with its picture-perfect courtyards and alleys adorned with colorful flowers, make it an irresistible destination.
Ronda and Serrania de Ronda Villages
By Linn from Amused by Andalucia
One of the most unique places to go for a long weekend in Spain is the quaint town of Ronda. Sitting in the midst of the mountains in southern Spain, it offers a wealth of history.
Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain, and remains from the Romans and Moors alike are to be explored around the town. Of particular interest are the Arab Baths, the Casa del Rey Moro, and of course, the New Bridge, the most iconic site of Ronda.
Surrounding Ronda, there is a myriad of whitewashed villages, and if you are interested in finding hidden gems in Andalucia, you must rent a car and start exploring.
Serrania de Ronda and Genal Valley hide a wealth of unique places. Among the most interesting are Genalguacil (the Museum Village), Setenil de las Bodegas (the village built in rock), and the Smurf Village, Juzcar.
Other beautiful places to visit are Gaucín, Casares, and Zahara de la Sierra.
The best way to see the surroundings of Ronda is by car, but you can also take the bus from Malaga to Ronda and go on organized tours to the most famous villages around the town.
San Sebastian
With an astounding number of Michelin-star restaurants, a lovely old town, a mesmerizing coastline, and scenic surroundings, San Sebastian (also known as Donostia) is easily one of the best places to visit in northern Spain.
Sitting on the coast of the Gulf of Biscay, its main focal point is the dreamy La Concha Beach, where you can soak up the sun or walk along the promenade. To see this gorgeous strip of sand from above, head to the viewpoints of Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo.
If you’re looking to do some sightseeing, check out the Good Shepherd Cathedral of San Sebastián, the beautiful City Hall (at the Alderdi-Eder park), the castle of Motako Gaztelua, and the Miramar Palace.
In such a foodie capital, you also must experience the culinary scene, from fine dining restaurants to pincho bars (pintxo in Basque, the local version of tapas) to the cheesecake of the restaurant La Viña, which has become an international sensation (you might know it as Burnt Basque Cheesecake).
If you find yourself with extra free time, you can take a half-day trip to coastal villages such as Getaria and Hondarribia.
Oviedo
By Becki from Borders of Adventure
Not many people know about Oviedo – San Sebastian and Bilbao are typically the big hitters in northern Spain. But the Asturian capital, 30 minutes south of coastal Gijon, is a lesser-known treasure. And it’s been around since the Reconquista.
There are plenty of things to do in Oviedo, even if typically seen as a day trip destination.
First, stroll around the historical city and get lost in streets lined with colorful buildings, filled with bustling markets, and dotted with dozens of statues of people who left their mark on the city.
Then, the ancient architecture, from the UNESCO Cathedral to the pre-Romanesque structures found on the green slopes outside the center.
Fuel up on the famed food, best sampled in between sightseeing, like Fabada, Cachopo, and rice pudding (Arroz con Leche) for dessert.
No visit here is complete without time spent in a cider house. It’s an Asturian tradition, and its capital puts on a show in its street of cider houses.
Cider is drunk here in small pours, and the pourers are famed for their unique technique of pouring the serve from a great height.
Segovia
While visiting Segovia as a day trip from Madrid is a popular option (as it is only a 30-minute train ride away), dedicating a long weekend to this historic city will allow you to enjoy it more slowly.
It owes its UNESCO World Heritage status to three awe-inspiring Spanish landmarks – the impressive Roman-era Aqueduct, the Gothic-style Segovia Cathedral, and the fairytale-like Alcázar of Segovia, which supposedly was one of Walt Disney’s inspirations for Cinderella’s castle.
Walking along the city walls, around the Jewish Quarter, and through the enchanting alleys and plazas is another exciting activity in Segovia that will transport you to the past.
If you feel like renting a car for a day, it’ll be easier to get to places near Segovia, like the 18th-century Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso (known for its stunning gardens) and Pedraza, one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Spain.
Salamanca
A 2.5-hour train ride can get you from Madrid to Salamanca, one of the best cities to visit in the region of Castilla y León, inhabited since pre-Roman times.
Sitting on the Tormes River, it’s known as the home of one of the oldest universities in the world and two of the most beautiful cathedrals in Spain, the Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral, so it’s no surprise the Old City of Salamanca is a UNESCO site.
A prominent feature of the city is the golden color of many of its buildings, including Casa de las Conchas and its shell decorations, Convent of San Esteban, City Hall at Plaza Mayor, and of course, the university and the cathedrals.
The picture-perfect historic architecture doesn’t stop there. It is very much present across the city, from Casa Lis (Museum of Art Nouveau and Art Déco) to the Roman bridge to the Palace of Monterrey.
If you’re looking for a lovely urban oasis, you’ll love the garden of the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea.
If you’re an architecture and history buff, Salamanca will be right up your alley.
Death Coast (Costa Da Morte)
By Megan from Packing up the Pieces
The Costa da Morte, or Death Coast, is found along the wild shores of the Atlantic Ocean in the region of Galicia, Spain.
The area stretches from the northern village of Malpica and follows the rocky coastline for close to 120 kilometers to just south of Fisterra.
The Death Coast is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain, and it gets its name from the hundreds of shipwrecks that have been recorded over the centuries.
The whole area boasts rolling hills, endless hiking trails, beautiful lighthouses, remote beaches, waterfalls, fishing villages with delicious seafood, and stunning landscapes.
It is also dotted with castros, ancient ruins that are connected to the Celtic people. The two most popular villages to visit along the Death Coast are the lively Fisterra and the sleepy village of Muxia.
Both villages are easily accessible from Santiago de Compostela via frequent buses or by car. Travelers seeking more of a journey can take the three-day walk to either village along the scenic Camino Fisterra Muxia pilgrimage route.
Girona
By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles
A Barcelona to Girona day trip is a popular activity for many travelers visiting Barcelona. But Girona is well worthy of more time: it’s a perfect long weekend break to consider in Catalonia in northeast Spain.
Girona is a walled town that has been settled since before Roman times, and it has a rich history, with medieval walls and many striking landmarks. Its old town is a rich blend of cultural influences.
Walking the walls of Girona is one of the top things to do here. From the walls, you get fantastic views of the town and the countryside.
The Girona Cathedral is known for the long flight of steps leading up to its entrance: the staircase featured on the popular TV show, Game of Thrones. The cathedral itself is also impressive.
Girona is set at the meeting point of four rivers, and there are close to a dozen bridges that offer beautiful views of the houses with colorful facades that line the banks. The most famous of these bridges is the Eiffel Bridge, with its red color.
Girona is known for its many fine restaurants, so if you are a foodie, book tables well ahead of your visit!
And with Girona as your base, you can explore some of the most scenic parts of the coast, or make a trip to nearby Figueres to visit the Dali Museum.
You can easily travel to Girona by train or bus from Barcelona, or you can drive up the scenic Costa Brava from Barcelona.
Queralbs
By Renee from Dream Plan Experience
Imagine this – uninterrupted views of mountain peaks and valleys, the serene sound of bird songs, and the fresh scent of pine trees. If that sounds ideal, it can be found in the tiny alpine village called Queralbs.
Queralbs is situated in the valley of the Catalan Pyrenees mountains, about three hours north of Barcelona, making it the perfect weekend escape to relax and recharge in nature.
This picturesque village clings to the side of a mountain at 1,236 m, where only about 200 people live.
The village’s top and only landmark is a 10th-century Romanesque church. However, the best thing to do here is to visit the nearby Vall de Nuria, known as a destination for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.
The only way to reach Vall de Nuria is to take the rack railway that departs from Queralbs, which takes you a further incline of 1,000 m through unspoiled mountain views.
For that reason, this hidden gem is known to locals as a weekend getaway for skiing or hiking enthusiasts.
La Coruña
By Melodie from Travel Must Do’s
La Coruña is a beautiful northern Spanish city that’s the perfect destination for a long weekend away. Located on the Atlantic Sea, it offers stunning landscapes and great attractions to explore.
The old town of La Coruña is especially charming, with its narrow streets lined with traditional restaurants and bars where you can sample some local delights.
Plus, there are plenty of historical sites to check out, like the Tower of Hercules (the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use today) and San Anton Castle.
For those who love spending time outdoors, La Coruña has plenty to offer, including beaches, parks, and nature reserves.
Head down to Orzan beach for some swimming or sunbathing, then enjoy a picnic in Nature Reserve Monte de San Pedro – an oasis right in the middle of the city.
In the evening, catch a performance at one of the many bars and clubs scattered around town.
Getting to La Coruña is easy – you can fly directly from many major cities in Europe or take a train from Madrid. Another great way to explore the city is on foot – it’s small enough that you can walk from one side to the other in no time!
Santiago de Compostela
By Mariana from Road Trip Euroguide
Santiago de Compostela, located in the northwest region of the country, is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations.
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of the autonomous community of Galicia, and it is also the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
The best way to get here is via road trip or by flying into Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) Airport.
As you start exploring the city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will notice it is full of Romanesque churches and beautiful plazas.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, built to house the remains of Saint James the Great (Santiago in Spanish), is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Christendom.
And if you like that sort of architecture, you will love walking around Plaza del Obradoiro and Parque de Alameda.
In addition to the religious sites, Santiago de Compostela is also known for its lively nightlife and traditional Galician music and dance. You should definitely pop into the following spots: Fuco Lois, Pub Modus Vivend, and Cafe Carrilana.
And for a real culinary adventure, you should try Percebes, or “Lucifer’s Fingers”, a delicacy in Galicia.
Pamplona
By Jacoba from Travel with Co
Pamplona (also known as Iruña) is a beautiful historic city to spend a long weekend.
It is mostly known for hosting the Festival of San Fermín, which is very controversial (this blog does not support attending it), so if you’re looking to plan an ethical trip, there are still plenty of fun things to do in Pamplona.
One of the best things to do is just to stroll around the historic city center. Make sure to admire the beautiful Rococo facade of the Pamplona City Hall and the colorful buildings around Plaza del Costillo.
The city center is also a great place for food lovers. Calle de la Estafeta is a street filled with bars where you can enjoy a local beer or a glass of wine with delicious pinchos.
If you like hiking and the outdoors, Pamplona is also a fantastic place to visit. There are some large green parks (like Jardines de la Taconera), and you can go for a stroll around the city on the ancient city walls.
In addition, you can hike a section of the famous Camino de Santiago since the trail goes straight through Pamplona.
As you can see, Pamplona has something for everyone!
Cadiz
By Joanna from Andalucia in My Pocket
Cadiz is a great destination in Spain if you are looking to spend a long weekend. The city is one of the oldest inhabited in Europe, and it is a wonderful blend between ancient architecture and modern buildings.
Despite its old age, Cadiz has an incredible young spirit because of its lively inhabitants who love to go out in the evenings.
There are plenty of things to do if you choose to spend a long weekend in Cadiz.
Firstly, you must visit the Cathedral, which is pretty unique because of its location, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The crypt of the Cathedral is actually under sea level.
Walking alongside the seafront, you are welcomed to the most iconic image of Cadiz, with its Cathedral and the old town facing the water.
Another great place to see in Cadiz is the fish market. In the morning, you can buy fresh fish and cook it at your accommodation, or, in the afternoon, you can have that fresh fish cooked for you at one of the restaurants alongside the market.
This area is always very lively and busy, a great place to go if you want to observe the local life of the city.
The beaches near Cadiz are also great to go to if you want to learn how to surf. Getting to Cadiz is very easy, by road or rail. The nearest airports are in Seville and Gibraltar.
Mojacar
By Faith from XYUandBEYOND
Mojácar is the perfect weekend holiday in Andalucia, Spain. You have the pleasure of spending time in the quaint white village on the hill or heading to one of many beaches along the 17 km stretch of the Mediterranean coastline.
Mojácar Pueblo clings to the side of a cliff and is 2km from the beaches, but a bus runs many times a day between the two. Shaded by the Sierra Cabrera Mountains, Mojácar is found in eastern Andalusia and remains true to its Moorish past.
To reach the village, you can take an elevator up to the old town, where you can explore the many boutiques or enjoy fine dining restaurants or simpler tapas cafes.
Like most of Spain, there are a series of festivals and events you can take part in, from Semana Santa to the Christians and Moors Festival.
On the beaches, you will find plenty of beach bars, cafes, and live music venues. The best thing to do in Mojácar is to head up to the pueblo in the evening and enjoy a Tinto de Verano from the mirador with views over the sea and mountains.
Denia
By Ella from Many More Maps
Located on Spain’s lovely Costa Blanca, the small town of Denia is the perfect long weekend break if you’re looking to combine chilling on the beach with hiking up mountains, and having good weather is pretty much guaranteed!
Start your weekend break in Denia by strolling the Denia Marina and admiring all of the luxury yachts docked here before joining a boat tour of Denia’s coastline.
Obviously, after checking out Denia’s beaches from the ocean, it’s time to check them out from land. You can’t go wrong with sunbathing and swimming on Punta del Raset or Les Albaranes.
On your second day, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots and tackle one of the best things to do in Denia, the Montgó hike. From the top of the Montgó mountain, which looms over the town, you’ll get the best views of Denia and the ocean!
There are several different routes up to the top, which vary in length and difficulty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a complete beginner, you’ll find a trail to suit you.
Bilbao
By Leyla from Women on the Road
Not that long ago, Bilbao was a place to avoid, a violent stage for the separatist aspirations of the Basque people. Then the Guggenheim Museum opened in 1997, and the separatists made peace in 2006. The rest is history.
Bilbao has since emerged, an enticing blend of radically modern and Art Nouveau architecture, meandering medieval streets, and shiny new bridges, all held together by a multi-layered history.
The Basque issue is not the only one which tore this region apart – during World War II, the Germans carpet-bombed the village of Guernica, a barbaric act immortalized by Picasso’s painting of the same name (you can reach Guernica in an hour by train).
Beyond basking in history, there is so much to do in Bilbao! This being the Basque region, food plays a primary role in everyday life. Hop from bar to bar in the evenings to sample pintxos, the Basque equivalent of tapas, or sit for a meal cooked by some of the best chefs in the world.
And once you visit its world-class museums and sample all the food, spend some time strolling along the streets of Old Bilbao’s “Casco Viejo” and its 700 years of history.
As a bonus, it’s easy to reach, with plenty of discount flights from the UK and continental Europe, and easy liaisons from Madrid.
Caceres
If you want to explore Spain off the beaten path, take a 3-hour train ride to Caceres, the capital of the undiscovered region of Extremadura, located roughly 100 km from the border with Portugal.
This city is not very big, but its UNESCO-listed old town, preservation of three religious heritages, and intriguing surroundings make it worth a long weekend getaway.
From the main square (Plaza Mayor) and the old Jewish Quarter to the city’s walls and many palaces (like Palacio de Carvajal and Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo), the medieval flair of Caceres is unmissable.
You can also visit the Cáceres Museum to learn about the local history, the Helga de Alvear Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Yusuf Al Burch Arab House Museum, an authentic 12th-century Arab house.
The city is surrounded by many natural spaces, like the Natural Monument Los Barruecos and Monfragüe National Park, which will be easier to reach by car.
That said, public transport can get you to places like Merida (known for its well-preserved Roman sites), Hervas (famous for its picturesque Jewish Quarter), and the Monastery of Yuste.
Long Weekend in Spain: Island Getaways
Lanzarote
By Inês from Random Trip
Imagine getting on a plane and within 2 hours from the peninsula arriving on… Mars. That’s the first feeling you’ll get when you visit Lanzarote.
The volcanic trails, mountains, and deserts of petrified lava within the Timanfaya National Park are actually one of the main tourist claims of this island of the Canary Archipelago.
The spring weather throughout the year, the sandy beaches and pristine natural water pools, and the beautiful architectural gems of Cesar Manrique, the famous local architect, complete the scenario that makes Lanzarote a perfect destination for a long weekend getaway.
Whether you feel like relaxing at the beach (Papagayo is one of the most beautiful), going on an adventure entering a 20,000-year-old volcanic tube (Cueva de Los Verdes), doing some hiking to the top of a volcano (the views from Caldera Blanca are breathtaking), or feeding your cultural desires (visit Literature Nobel Prize Winner Saramago’s home in Tias), Lanzarote has a plan for you.
Also, if you’re into a long surf weekend, you’ve surely heard about the amazing waves of Famara Beach.
Wrap it all up with some local malvasia volcanic wine at sunset, and this island will give you the feeling that you have been here twice as long.
Mallorca
While it’s best to spend at least a week in Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, you can still get a good taste of what it offers if you only have three days (or four if you plan a Friday-to-Monday trip).
Beyond dreamy turquoise beaches, it’s also home to lush mountain landscapes, postcard-perfect villages, and even some magnificent historical landmarks.
If you base yourself in the Mediterranean island‘s capital, Palma de Mallorca, start by spending a day in the city.
Wander through its charming old town, admire its unusual modernist buildings, walk along the port, and visit sites like the Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.
Now it’s time for a couple of day trips, and luckily, a variety of bus lines can take you to some of the most stunning places on the island. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the easiest areas to get to by public transport.
Here you can visit quintessential Mallorquin towns like Valldemossa and Deià, take the vintage train to Soller, soak up the sun at Formentor Beach, and enjoy the scenic views from Mirador Es Colomer.
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Mallorca, you can also take a sunset cruise, book a winery tour, and even take a dolphin-watching excursion.
Read more about Mallorca:
- Free things to do in Palma de Mallorca
- Brunch places in Palma de Mallorca
- Hidden gems in Mallorca
- Mallorca packing list
- Reasons to visit Mallorca
Gran Canaria
By Alya from Stingy Nomads
Gran Canaria island is a perfect place for a long weekend getaway in Spain. It’s the largest and one of the most popular islands of the Canary Archipelago, known for its beautiful sandy beaches, calm clear water, and diverse landscape.
There are many amazing places to visit on the island.
Maspalomas Beach is one of the best areas in Gran Canaria for a coastal getaway.
It’s a long sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes, and its promenade has a great variety of hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars. Watching the sunrise at Maspalomas Beach is a not-to-miss thing to do in Gran Canaria.
Besides relaxing on the beach, the island offers many adventure activities. There are many trails around the island that are suitable for hiking and cycling, from short and easy routes to challenging multi-day treks such as the Camino de Gran Canaria.
Surfing is another popular activity on the island, with Maspalomas Beach and Playa del Ingles being the two most popular surf beaches.
There are direct flights to Gran Canaria from all major Spanish cities. From the airport, you can get to the main tourist areas by bus or taxi. If you’re planning to explore the island and visit several locations, renting a car is one of the best options.
Tenerife
By Paulina from Paulina on the Road
If you’re interested in hiking, lively nightlife, marine wildlife, beaches, and mountains, then you should visit Tenerife.
Even though Tenerife has advanced, remnants of the island’s ancient Guanches population may be seen everywhere. Around 200 BCE, a group of Berbers called the Guanches founded the first permanent human settlement on the island.
The place offers numerous things to do. You can explore Siam Park, Loro Parque, Chinese Lantern World, and more. The Teide National Park, nevertheless, is the most popular in all of Europe.
You can also enjoy activities like stargazing, kayaking, and whale and dolphin watching.
During February, revelers deck the streets with enough feathers and sequins to rival Rio’s carnival.
It is a well-known tourist location, so naturally, you don’t need to worry about where to stay in Tenerife. You can reach it by taking a flight to South Tenerife Airport.
More Spain Travel Guides
Read more about Spain:
- Spain travel tips
- Road trips in Spain
- Gifts for Spain lovers
- Novels set in Spain
- Spain travel quotes
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