Weekends to spain: 18 Wonderful Weekend Breaks in Spain (for 2023!)

11 Picture-Perfect Places (that’s not Barcelona or Madrid)

Spending a weekend in Spain is the perfect way to relax and unwind. And there are so many beautiful places to do it. From picturesque cities to historic villages, laid-back beach towns and popular island destinations. 

If you’re looking for some inspiration on weekend breaks in Spain, then we’ve got you covered. These 11 Spain weekend trips have something for every type of couple and most are only a train ride (or drive) away from Barcelona or Madrid.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, enjoy some good food and wine, or take an action-packed trip to the mountains. After reading this list you might want to spend much longer than a weekend in Spain!

Check out these beautiful Spanish hotspots and start planning your Spain weekend getaway ASAP!

Here are 11 amazing places to plan a weekend break in Spain!

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Weekend Breaks in Spain – At A Glance

Where to go for a weekend in Spain?

When it comes to beautiful places in Spain to spend a weekend, there are so many amazing options. We’ve narrowed down 12 of our favourite cities and towns that we think are perfect for a romantic couples’ trip. Read on for more information about each spot:

  1. Seville
  2. San Sebastian (San Sebastián)
  3. Valencia
  4. Menorca (Minorca)
  5. Toledo
  6. Mallorca (Majorca)
  7. Oviedo
  8. Granada
  9. Alicante
  10. Ronda
  11. Costa Brava

12 of the Best Weekends in Spain

#1 | Seville

Did you know that Seville’s motto is “No me ha dejado”, which translates as “It has not forsaken me”? It really is the perfect way to describe the Andalusian capital. Once you go there, you’ll always want to come back! Seville is where tradition meets modern.  

Since the city is more than 2000 years old, it is full of history and charm. Evidence of all the cultures that used to rule in Seville (Phoenicians, Romans, Jews, etc.) can still be felt in the narrow streets. 

A must-visit for every traveller is the Alcazar Palace, which is still frequently used by the Spanish royal family. If you are fans of Game of Thrones, you will recognise this place as the Gardens of Dorne.

Seville is also the perfect place to learn more about Spanish traditions like flamenco. Couples who enjoy great food and culture will certainly fall in love with Seville.

Best Time to Visit Seville: March to May, before the summer tourist rush. Hotels are more reasonably priced at this time.


#2 | San Sebastian (San Sebastián)

For foodie couples, visiting San Sebastian at least once in a lifetime is a ‘must’. The beautiful city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. It is not hard to see why – with impressive churches and buildings, as well as a wide sandy beach, it is a place where you can have almost any experience you wish.  

What San Sebastian is most known for is its gastronomy. In fact, the city is considered to be the best destination in Spain for food. 

Did you know that San Sebastian has the second most Michelin stars per capita in the world? The nearby Cantabrian Sea has some of the world’s best anchovies, make sure to try them!

Best Time to Visit San Sebastian: May to July offers the best temperatures in San Sebastian, although June/July is peak tourist season. Winters can get chilly in San Sebastian.


#3 | Valencia

Sometimes Valencia is overlooked as a weekend break in Spain since most travellers opt for Barcelona or Madrid. But given its location between Spain’s two major cities makes it one of the best weekend trips from Barcelona or Madrid.

The city set on the country’s east coast has striking architecture and a lively food scene but fewer crowds than in other Spanish destinations. Although Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain, it is surprisingly walkable.  

While you are there, a must-see place is La Lonja de la Seda – a 15th-century UNESCO site and a masterpiece of Valencian Gothic architecture. Make sure to wander around Barrio del Carmen – the northeast side of the old town, which is currently the most bohemian part of Valencia. 

The city is the World Design Capital 2022, so if you and your significant other are fans of art and great design, perhaps this is the perfect Spain weekend away for you!

Best Time to Visit Valencia: Because of the warm Mediterranean climate, spring (April and May) is a great time to avoid crowds.


#4 | Menorca (Minorca)

If you are looking for romantic weekend breaks in Spain, couples will love Menorca! It is not difficult to find reasons why the island is worth your attention. Menorca is just one of Spain’s beautiful islands and boasts white sand and crystal-clear water beaches. It also has excellent gastronomy and is known for its spectacular vineyards.  

For couples who enjoy beach time, delicious food and top-notch wine, Menorca will be the perfect pick! 

Visit Cala Macarella – perhaps the dreamiest beach in Europe or travel back in time at Ciutadella de Menorca, a beautiful historic port city on the west coast. Whatever you choose to do, you are in for a treat!

Best Time to Visit Menorca: Menorca enjoys hot summer and warm-mild weather the rest of the year. Visit in May-June or September-October if you want to avoid the Summer crowds.


#5 | Toledo

One of the best weekend trips from Madrid is Toledo – Spain’s World Heritage City. Be prepared – exploring sights in this hilltop city’s centre will be quite the exercise, but the hassle is well worth it. 

Although small in size, Toledo is crammed with fantastic architecture that is largely inspired by Islamic, Christian and Jewish principles.

The charming city is also known for its great food, especially carcamusas – slow-cooked pork in tomato sauce with peas. This weekend break in Spain is most suited for couples who enjoy all things culture.

Best Time to Visit Toledo: Spring and Autumn are beautiful times to visit Toledo. The heat in July and August can be unbearable.


#6 | Mallorca (Majorca)

Well known for its abundance of mesmerising beaches, Mallorca is the ultimate honeymoon destination and one of the best Spain weekend getaways for couples!

The largest of the Balearic Islands in Spain has something to offer for every traveller. Whether you wish to wind down at the beach, sip delicious cocktails, or prefer a more active way of travelling. At Mallorca, you’ll be spoilt with amazing landscapes and views (hello Tramuntana Mountains!).

Summer is the peak season for Mallorca. That is when many exciting events take place, and the nightlife is bustling too. Head to resort town Magaluf to dance your worries away to international DJs and other kinds of music.

Best Time to Visit Mallorca: March to May sees warm weather, fewer crowds and lower hotel prices before the summer rush.


#7 | Oviedo

For couples heading to Spain, a weekend away in Orvieto will be a great experience! The city may be quite compact, but don’t let its size fool you – there is plenty to do and see. The capital of Asturias is best known for its delicious cider and excellent art collections.

If you have the opportunity, plan your visit in September, when the San Mateo Fiestas take place. Have fun at open-air bars and barbecues, listen to Spanish music and admire people dressed in typical Asturian costumes. The elegant city of Oviedo is well suited for couples who wish to escape crowds and experience a different side of Spain.

Best Time to Visit: Visit from May to October to ensure pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall.

#8 | Granada

Looking for weekend trips from Madrid? Granada will be a pleasant discovery! With its grand Islamic architecture, maze-like streets and exceptional tapas, it is the perfect place to get a taste of the Spanish way of life.  

The undisputed jewel of Granada’s attractions is the Alhambra, which was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status back in 1984. 

Since the immense Sierra Nevada mountain range can be found just a short drive from Granada, you can ski in the morning and lie by a dreamy beach in the afternoon. For active couples, it would be difficult to find a better weekend destination in Spain!

Best Time to Visit Granada: From May to June are the months to visit for spring blooms and cultural events. September to October is also a beautiful time to visit.


#9 | Alicante

The land of deeply-rooted traditions is one of the best weekend breaks in Spain to experience true Spanish culture. 

Since it has an average of 3,000 sunshine hours a year, Alicante has become a popular destination for honeymooners. The small and compact city offers many different experiences. 

All year round, adventurers can enjoy water sports such as sailing, jet-skiing, diving, surfing, windsurfing, and many others.  

But Alicante isn’t just about having fun in the sun. The city is home to one of the country’s best contemporary art museums, where you can admire works from Picasso, Dali, and other artists.

Best Time to Visit Alicante: One of the few places in Spain that is nice to visit year-round, as Alicante only averages around 20 days of rainfall each year.


#10 | Ronda

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Ronda is full of spectacular sights and sites. Situated on a mountaintop in the Malaga province, above a stunning deep gorge (El Tajo) which separates the city’s new town from the old town.

See the famous Puente Nuevo, the spectacular stone bridge which spans the gorge. Or visit one of Spain’s oldest buildings (circa 15th century) and explore the historic Arab baths – getting bored won’t be an issue.

And don’t forget about the wine! Head to Ronda to taste some of the most delicious reds in the region.

Best Time to Visit Ronda: High season is July to August, but anytime from April to September will ensure warm weather in Ronda.


#11 | Costa Brava

If you’re looking for one of the best Barcelona weekend trips, then you can’t go past Costa Brava – given its proximity to Spain’s second-largest city. You can reach Costa Brava in just over an hour by train from Barcelona.

As far as stunning landscapes go, Costa Brava is one of the best Spanish destinations. Steep cliffs, impressive sand dunes and sweeping bays – visiting the area will be a feast for the eyes. Get lost in the winding streets of Girona, and make sure to explore the Cap de Creus peninsula and its awe-inspiring natural park. 

With plenty of cliffs, rocky coves and forests, it is a great place for hikers and swimmers. Couples who love spending time outdoors will certainly be enchanted by Costa Brava and its beauty!

Best Time to Visit Costa Brava: Either May to June, or September to October to avoid peak season, hot weather, and soring hotel prices.


Can you recommend any other weekend trips in Spain? Let our readers know in the comments below.


Ready to Book Your Spain Weekend Getaway?

Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, landscapes, good food and wine, or a culture hit, there are so many choices to make. We hope this article has helped you to find the perfect place to spend your next weekend in Spain. Or your next 12 weekends!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during your Spain weekend getaway, we highly recommend Booking.com because they offer free cancellation on most bookings and their Best Price Guarantee!

To make the most of your trip and discover more information about your chosen destination in Spain, be sure to visit the official Spain tourism website. 

If you’re looking for more Spain inspiration or travel tips, why not check out our other Spain articles.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Take a look at our Ultimate Travel Bucket List!


Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

  • Skyscanner for the best flight deals
  • Booking. com for the best rates on hotels
  • HomeAway for the best price on apartment and home rentals
  • Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
  • Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
  • Get Your Guide  for a great range of day tours
  • Tourradar for a wide selection of multi-day tours
  • World Nomads for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

Did You Know? When you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we are rewarded with a small commission (at no extra cost to you) that helps to keep our blog running. Thank you for supporting us! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.


About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

Connect with us on  Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter. If you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends!


10 Unique & Affordable Weekend Getaways in Spain

There are many amazing cities and villages in Spain and all of them are worth a visit. But if you are looking for affordable weekend getaways in Spain chances are, that Madrid and Barcelona are not the best options. While amazing, a trip there can get rather expensive. And if you only visit these two cities, you are missing a lot of what Spain has to offer.

If you are living in Europe weekend getaways in Spain are usually an easy and safe option. So hopefully you will find your next adventure on this list.



Table of Contents

The Best Weekend Getaways in Spain

Be it a weekend trip to Spain or an inner-country trip – Spain is full of amazing, budget-friendly cities that will take your breath away.

I myself went on several short trips and weekend getaways in Spain and loved every single one. There is no way to deny that one of the destinations on this list will likely always be my favorite. But maybe that is just the foodie in me that still dreams of eating those amazing tapas in Seville again.

Ultimately I can only recommend visiting all of these cities in addition to Barcelona and Madrid. And if you have more time and want to explore more of Spain, I can only recommend getting a rental and exploring several or all of these fantastic destinations for a weekend getaway in Spain. After all, a road trip is one of the best ways to get to know a country.

Toledo

Toledo was known as the “Imperial City”, being the site of the court of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor in Spain, and as the “City of the Three Cultures” – Christian, Islamic and Jewish – which is ingrained in its history. Today Toledo retains its old-world charm and relics of its past, stretching back to Roman times.

Toledo is about an hour’s travel from Madrid by car, train or bus. It is a popular weekend getaway in Spain and you can cover most of it on foot. English is not widely spoken, but people are friendly and you can get by with very little Spanish.

Things to do in Toledo

The city walk starts at the Puerta de Bisagra, the city gate of the original old city and its main entrance. It was built in the 10th century, in the time of the Moorish rule in Islamic Al-Andalus.

Meanwhile, the imposing Toledo Cathedral is one of the three 13th-century High Gothic cathedrals in Spain. The Chapels, statues, vaulted ceilings, and wall carvings combine to convey a glimpse of its grandeur in medieval days.

Additionally you can see the Puente de Alcántara which is a Roman arch bridge spanning the Tagus River. The Romans built this bridge at the foot of the Castillo de San Servando. In the Middle Ages it was used by pilgrims to enter the city. It currently has two arches. 

The Puente de San Martín is a medieval stone bridge across the other end of the river Tagus. It has five arches, the largest having a span of 40 meters, a wonder in its time.

Where to stay in Toledo

Several budget accommodations ranging from small hotels to hostels are conveniently located around Plaza del Toros Toledo.

What to eat in Toledo

For sustenance after your walk try a traditional Toledo dish – Stewed partridge, Carcamusa (stew of lean pork with vegetables), Cuchifritos (pork meat), topped off by a traditional dessert, such as Mazapán.

Contributed by Jan from Leisurely Drives

Seville

Packed with an abundance of orange trees, tapas bars, beautiful, bright buildings decorated with the prettiest azulejos (Spanish ceramic tiles) and culture on every corner, Seville is surely one of Spain’s most perfect sunny city breaks.

While I could easily spend a whole week strolling the streets and sipping cocktails in the sunshine, the top highlights of Seville can definitely be enjoyed over a weekend.

Things to do in Seville

If you’re looking to see one of the most cultural and historic sights of the city, the Real Alcazar of Seville is a MUST. The fortress-turned-royal palace has been around for an amazing 11 centuries! Catch a glimpse of some of the extraordinary history as you wander through the various rooms and pristine gardens. I recommend pre-booking (€11.50 pp) and arriving early as queues are a very regular occurrence!

Also well worth visiting is the Cathedral of Seville in Barrio Santa Cruz, the city’s beating heart – beautiful inside and out. Be sure to climb to the top of the Giralda for rooftop views.

In the evening, take a walk through the Parque de Maria Luisa to stop by the Plaza de Espana, an iconic landmark, decorated in yet more azulejos and centred around a waterfall and a small canal, which even has cute boats to hire!

Another place to check out, particularly in time for sunset is the Metropol Parasol, also known as ‘Las Setas’ or ‘the mushrooms’, named for the curved shapes of this enormous wooden structure, which doubles as a walkway. One of Seville’s more modern pieces of architecture – completed in 2011. You can stroll the length of it while gazing across the city skyline for the small price of €3.

Seville is full of affordable rentals all across the city. Find somewhere quite central and you’ll discover that most sights are easy to visit by foot. Plus, walking is the perfect way to witness all the intricate details of this stunning city!

Explored by Lucy at Earth Sun Wild Air

Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de La Frontera is a great place to travel for budget-conscious travelers as it’s off the main tourist grid in Spain, the area of Cadiz is in general prized for locals and not for tourists. But this is not the only benefit of traveling to Jerez de la Frontera. If you want to experience the real Andalusia, then you’ve come to the right place. The city is a true gem, Andalusia’s sherry capital and is mainly frequented by local tourists.

There are lots of things to do in Jerez de la Frontera, though my favorite is to just get lost in the streets, check out the sherry bodegas, and chat with the locals. The cathedral is just astounding, a 17th century Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical structure built on top of a mosque. Close to the cathedral is the individual bell tower, built on top of the mosque’s minaret. Continue to El Alcazar and stroll around Alameda Vieja. Every Sunday there is a huge flea market there where you can find anything from clothes to antique bargains.

There are more than 20 churches and convents in Jerez de la Frontera and most of them are free to enter. Among the most noteworthy are Monasterio de la Cartuja de Santa Maria, Iglesia de Santiago, and San Juan de los Caballeros.

Contributed by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

Malaga

So you’ve crossed off all the well-known hotspots in Europe for a weekend getaway! Capital cities have been ticked off and other Instagrammable destinations have been papped. Now you’re looking for something different, but equally enjoyable. Enter Malaga!

Sitting pretty in the sunny south of Spain, and hosting its own international airport, Malaga is a frequently overlooked destination for a short getaway. Maybe it is the reputation of the Costa del Sol for all-inclusive, overpriced package holidays focused primarily around drinking and getting burnt which Malaga may get caught in. But in fact, Malaga is nothing like that!

Instead, Malaga is remarkably diverse. It maintains a modern, clean vibe while still conserving its long historic associations with Arab, Roman, Greek influences. With plenty of culture and history coupled with amazing food and close proximity to the beach, there is something for everyone in this compact city! Malaga provides the opportunity to experience a variety of things in a short space of time so you’ll return home thinking you’ve seen so much!

Malaga from above

Things to do in Malaga

Some of the top attractions within the city include: Gibralfaro castle, Alcazaba fortress, the Picasso Museum, Atarazanas Market, La Malagueta bullring, and Malaga beach. But the city is also well located for other attractions such as the Caminito del Rey for the outdoorsy type and Marbella for nightlife lovers.

Having visited the city twice now, I really recommend it as an enjoyable and cost-effective alternative to some of the sometimes more overcrowded European destinations.

Submitted by Matt from Matts Next Steps

Almería

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly weekend getaway in Spain, then stopping by Almeria seems the right pick! The warmest and brightest city, Almeria, is admired for its lovely buildings, including churches and ancient dwellings, and beautiful sunshiny weather throughout the year.

 Almeria is a must-go-to place mainly because it’s a magnificent city with the lowest and most affordable prices, as compared to other Spain towns. 

Things to do in Almería

Alongside this, tourists can visit there to learn about its deep history, which involves top attractions reflecting architectures, like: 

  • Parque Natural de Cabo de Gata: It’s famous for its plenty of beaches, rock formations, and fantastic landscapes too. There is even a colossal lighthouse with a birds-eye view of the city. 
  • Cathedral de Almeria: It’s a Roman Catholic cathedral in the city of Almería, Andalusia. Here visitors can stroll around and feel the relaxing vibes in its cool interior. 
  • Oasys Mini Hollywood: It’s a Spanish Western-styled theme park that presents events, live shows, a zoological reserve, pool areas, restaurants, and educational activities. 
  • Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española de Almería: It’s a Military Museum symbolizing the Spanish Civil War and representing the cultural and historical custom of the city. 
  • Besides that, there are various things to do in Almeria including swimming, beach-bumming, and visiting nearby villages for fishing lagoons. Moreover, it’s a perfect place for adventure seekers as caves give the opportunity to do activities, like-hiking, crawling, and trekking as well. 

Almeria likewise offers fancy foods/drinks at cheap rates and is even the best supplier of fresh grains and vegetables. It would be best if you try-out dishes, like- Seafood paella and Spanish tapas. Additionally, the city offers affordable luxury hotels/villas, a numerous tapas bars, and designer shops. However, the best time to visit there is from June to September.

Contributed by Paulina from VisitSouthernSpain

Valencia

There is no better weekend getaway destination than Valencia, Spain. Not only does this Spanish gem welcome sun and warm weather year-round, but there are also a ton of exciting things to do in Valencia. Spain is a wonderful place to visit for any traveler on a budget because food, attractions, and accommodation come at much lower prices than other places in Western Europe. You can also very find cheap flights that impact your savings even more. 

Valencia offers everything you could ever want in a weekend getaway. The city is full of rich history, stunning architecture, delicious local dishes, and even a beach! This means that your weekend trip will be full of fun and unique things to do that will keep you busy and enticed.  

Amongst all the amazing things to do some of the top options involve exploring! The old town in Valencia is stunning and there is so much to see and do there like walking to the top of Torres de Serranos, visiting the Central Market, viewing the Valencia Cathedral, and more.

There are also some additional attractions outside the old town like the city of arts and sciences and the vast beach.

Also, as a Spanish city, Valencia is full of delicious, authentic dishes like Paella and Sangria that always make a visit amazing.

If you are looking for an amazing and budget-friendly weekend getaway in Spain, Valencia is the place for you! 

Submitted by Samantha from Sam Sees World

Tarragona

We all know that Barcelona is a fantastic travel destination that offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, history, architecture, food, and adventure. What we also know is that experiencing all this comes at a price that can be a bit heavy on your pocket. But what if you had a cheaper, budget-friendly but equally beautiful option to explore instead of Barcelona?

Tarragona is an unexplored hidden gem that can be your perfect budget-friendly getaway in Spain. Located in the picturesque Catalonia region in the northeastern part of Spain, Tarragona is a Roman version of Barcelona that’ll mesmerize you with its ancient Roman charm and lively modern city vibe. It’s 100 km away from Barcelona and can be easily reached by train in an hour.

The easiest and most convenient way to explore the city is through a self-guided Tarragona walking tour. The best things to do and see in Tarragona are the Tarragona Amphitheatre, Tarragona Cathedral, the Mediterranean Balcony, the Human Tower Statue, Miracle Beach, Rambla Nova, and Circ Roma.

You can easily cover the places over the weekend and still have time to explore the streets of the old town and enjoy the delightful food scene in the city. If you want to experiment with the local Spanish cuisine, then the tastiest bets are El Terrat restaurant, Tarakon, Alvocat Vegan and Vegetarian restaurant, and Filosofia restaurant.

Tarragona gives you that perfect European experience at a very economic price and that’s the reason why it’s one of the perfect budget-friendly weekend getaways in Spain.

Explored by Vaibhav Mehta from The Wandering Vegetable

Sitges

The last time I was in Barcelona, I made a beeline for the charming, coastal town of Sitges. Sitges is the ultimate, budget-friendly weekend getaway from Barcelona with beautiful beaches and a lovely, walkable Old Town.

How to get to Sitges

Sitges is also a quick 45-55 minute bus ride from Barcelona. It’s my favorite way to get there since you get to see fabulous views along the way. A one-way bus ticket will set you back a mere €4.50.

Things to do in Sitges

Not only are there many free activities in Sitges, but there are tons of casual restaurants and cafes where you can eat really well on a budget.

One of my favorite free things to do in Sitges is beach-hopping.  There are several to choose from, but Platja de Sant Sebastiá and Platja de Ribera are the best of the best.

I also love visiting the Cemetari San Sebastián. This cemetery is a gorgeous final resting place for the beloved townspeople. Walking around here is so peaceful and a nice contrast to the bustling beaches.

If you’re lucky enough to visit Sitges during the castelles (human castles) season from April to October, you may be able to catch a practice or competition. I got really fortunate when I was in Sitges, and I was able to see several castellers practicing their human-tower-stacking in the town plaza!

After you’ve worked up an appetite strolling the seafront promenade or exploring Sitges’ beautiful Old Town, I recommend heading to Restaurante Pecadito for an inexpensive, delicious seafood meal. The pimientos and calamari are so good.

And make sure you don’t leave Sitges without trying O Sorbet d’Amour. Their fig-mascarpone ice cream was a revelation!

So have I convinced you to put Sitges at the top of your Spain getaway list?! If you’re ready to book a budget-friendly weekend trip to Sitges (or another destination) but aren’t sure how to find the right AirBnB or vacation rental, check out the previous link.

Contributed by Alana, the founder of Course Charted

Bilbao

Top things to do in Bilbao, Spain on a budget

When heading to Bilbao, Spain for a budget-friendly weekend, here are the top three things to do.

Take a free walking tour

When I visit a new place, I typically take a walking tour on Day 1. I’m directionally challenged so a tour helps me get acclimated to the area. And local tour guides help immerse me into the culture, learn the history (Bilbao is 700+ years old) and share hidden gems.

I’ve found the best walking tours are free. Yes, free! And Bilbao has several. You pay your guide at the end of the tour what you think it was worth based on your experience.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum

Guggenheim Museum is the top must-do thing in Bilbao – even if you don’t go inside! Considered one of the most important pieces of architecture in modern history, I could spend hours simply mesmerized by its exterior. You’ll also find some really cool sculptures on the Guggenheim grounds such as a 40-foot puppy covered in flowers. Once inside the museum, you’ll be treated to 20 galleries on three levels of awe-inspiring architecture

General admission tickets are very reasonable. Children are free (17 and under) and reduced tickets are available for students 18-26 and for seniors over 65. 

Hike the coast of Basque Country – a GoT filming location

Since you’re in the neighborhood, visit the nearby islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe on the Basque Country coast. It’s the filming location of Game of Thrones’ Dragonstone.

But you don’t have to be a fan of GoT to appreciate the breathtaking views overlooking the rugged coast on the Bay of Biscay. Tickets are free to hike to the chapel at the top of the hill (241 steps). However, reservations are required to help manage capacity.

Suggested by Karen from kmfiswriting 

Santander

I first found Santander through a flight comparison site with the flights coming up as £40 return. Santander has a strong local culture, with few locals speaking English, which is a great opportunity to practice your Spanish. Most of the hotels are cheap and it’s around £3 to get from the airport to the center by bus. Making it the perfect budget-friendly weekend getaway.  

There are so many wonderful things to do in Santander and I couldn’t possibly list them all here. A few of my favorites are: 

Relax on El Sardinero beach. Golden sands, crystal clear water, and very few crowds, with several wonderful restaurants. El Sardinero beach also has a surf school where you can take two-hour lessons for around £50. 

Take a tour of the city on foot, rent a bicycle or go on the hop on hop off bus.  

The food is amazing in Santander. Many restaurants have set menus at discount prices as well as a normal menu. A two-course meal can be as little as £10 each.  

Santander has lots of museums to explore and a fantastic art center. Take a  walk from the arts center back to the city along the edge of the cliff. It’s a beautiful sight to see.  

For me, the most beautiful thing that Santander has to offer is the views from Magdalena Peninsula. High upon the Magdalena Peninsula is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal castle that you can take a tour of.

Around the Peninsula are some wonderful beaches, cliffs, and a small zoo. The view over the cliffs up here is breathtaking and is something I certainly will never forget.

I hope you get to enjoy Santander as much as we did, it is a truly mesmerizing place! 

Contributed by Mrs D from Icanshowyoutheworld5

City Trips and Weekend Getaways in Spain

Hopefully, you just found a great destination for your next short trip. Which cities have you already explored? And which one will be your next weekend getaway in Spain? Or do you prefer exploring the Spanish hidden gems?

If you are looking for an island getaway, Gran Canaria and Mallorca are fantastic options.

Planning Weekend Getaways in Spain? Pin it for later!

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Holidays in Spain and Latin America

Holidays | CAMPUS IN SPAIN

Alicante

April 7, April 10, April 20, May 1, June 23, June 24, August 15, October 9, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Barcelona

April 7, April 10, May 1, June 5, June 24, August 15, September 11, September 25, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25, December 26.

Valencia

April 7, April 10, April 17, April 24, May 1, June 24, August 15, October 9, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Granada

February 28, April 6, April 7, May 1, May 3, June 8, August 15, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Cadiz

February 20, February 28, April 6, April 7, May 1, August 15, October 6, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Madrid

March 20, April 6, April 7, May 1, May 2, May 15, August 15, October 12, November 1, November 9, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Malaga

February 28, April 6, April 7, May 1, August 15, August 19, September 8, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Marbella

February 28, April 6, April 7, May 1, June 12, August 15, October 12, October 19, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Salamanca

April 6, April 7, May 1, June 12, July 25, August 15, September 8, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Seville

February 28, April 6, April 7, April 26, May 1, June 8, August 15, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Tenerife

February 2, April 6, April 7, May 1, May 3, May 30, July 11, August 15, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Holidays | SCHOOLS IN LATIN AMERICA

Antigua, Guatemala

April 6, April 7, April 10, April 8, May 1, July 24, August 2, August 14, September 3, September 15, December 1, December 24, December 25, December 31.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

February 20, March 24, April 2, April 7, May 1, May 25, June 17, June 20, August 21, October 16, November 20, December 8, December 25.

Cartagena, Colombia

March 20, April 6, April 7, May 1, May 22, June 12, June 19, July 3, July 20, August 7, August 21, October 16, November 6, November 13, December 8, December 25.

Cusco, Peru

April 6, April 7, April 8, May 1, June 8, June 24, June 29, July 28, July 29, August 30, October 8, November 1, November 2, December 8, December 24, December 25, December 31st.

Montevideo, Uruguay

1 May, 18 July, 25 August, 25 December.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

February 6, March 20, April 7, April 10, May 1, May 15, September 15, November 2, November 20, December 25.

San José, Costa Rica

April 6, April 7, April 8, April 10, May 1, July 24, August 2, August 14, September 3, September 15, December 1, December 24, December 25, December 31.

Santiago de Chile, Chile

April 7, April 8, May 1, May 21, June 26, July 16, August 15, September 18, 19September, October 9, October 27, November 1, December 8, December 25.

School in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

January 21, February 27, April 7, May 1, June 8, September 24, December 25.

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Official holidays and weekends in Spain / Travel.

Ru / Countries / Spain

  1. Travel.ru
  2. Countries
  3. Spain
  4. culture
  5. Entertainment
  6. Holidays
  • Hotels

  • Flights

Officially, the tourist season in Spain begins on May 2.
January 1 – New Year.
January 6 – Day of the Magi, Epiphany, the day of St. Epiphanius.
March 19 – St. Joseph’s Day (Jose).
March – end of April – Holy Week.
May 1 – Labor Day (Workers’ Day of Solidarity).
July 25 – the day of the Apostle James.
August 15 – Day of the Assumption of the Virgin.
October 12 – Spanish Civilization Day, America’s Discovery Day, Columbus Day.
November 1 – All Saints’ Day.
December 6 – Constitution Day.
December 8 – Immaculate Conception.
December 25 – Christmas.

  • December 2007 – January 2008
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    Volodina Svetlana

    New Year’s Eve at the Puerta del Sol (Madrid)

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Semana Santa in Seville

Semana Santa, which corresponds to Holy Week, is generally a special time in Spain: all week religious processions pass through the cities – something like our religious processions. Read more →

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April 2016

Catalonia: Independence Day

Catalans celebrate Motherland Day on September 11 (Diada Nacional de Catalunya or Diada) – this is the main state fiesta in the autonomous community of Catalonia and, of course, a day off. Read more →

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September 2014

Fairy Kings Parade (January 6)

Since the Middle Ages, there has been a holiday tradition dedicated to the three Kings (in the Russian version – Magi), who brought gifts to the newborn baby Jesus. The sorcerer-kings found their way, thanks to a guiding star that lit up in the firmament. Read more →

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