Posted by Spain has more to offer than sun, sangria, and siestas. From impressive buildings to magnificent cathedrals and Arabian architecture – here are our top 10 most exciting sights in Spain. Ideal for your next trip – or simply for daydreaming.
The quick list (for those in a hurry)
1.Sagrada Família (Barcelona)
2.Alhambra (Granada)
3.Mezquita (Córdoba)
4.Prado Museum (Madrid)
5.Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
6.Park Güell (Barcelona)
7.Roman Aqueduct of Segovia
8.Royal Palace of Madrid
9.Old Town of Toledo
10.Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao)
All our top lists Spain
-
-
category link Top 10 sights Sightseeing features Top 10 Old Towns Old towns Top 10 natural wonders Natural wonders Top 10 beaches beaches Top 10 monasteries and churches Monasteries and churches Top 10 viewpoints Viewpoints Top 10 Nightlife nightlife Top 10 Food Food & Specialties Top 10 insider tips Insider tips
Die ausführliche Liste (mit Flair und Fun-Faktor)
-
1. Sagrada Família – Barcelona’s Eternal Construction Site
Spain’s most famous church looks like a Gothic fairytale castle on acid – and that’s a good thing. Gaudí created something completely unique here. And yes, it’s been under construction since 1882. Current completion date? Sometime before the end of the world. Still: A must-see.
Tip: Book early! Or get up really early. Or both.
2. Alhambra – Moorish Magic in Granada
Water ripples, arches glitter, mosaics mesmerize. The Alhambra isn’t a sight, it’s a state of being. Anyone who thinks history is dry has never been here. The view from the Generalife Gardens? Postcard material.
Tip: Tickets often sell out months in advance. There’s no rush here.
3. Mezquita – Mosque Meets Cathedral in Córdoba
In this one hall, a Catholic altar stands in the middle of an old mosque. Sounds weird? It is. And beautiful. The colonnade with its red and white arches is like an Arabian hall of mirrors. Only more authentic.
Fun fact: Muslims and Christians once prayed here simultaneously – today, everyone marvels together.
4. Prado Museum – Madrid for Art Nerds
You’re thinking, “Oh no, museum.” Give the Prado a chance! Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco hang here – great art in even larger rooms. And air conditioning is free.
Tip: Admission is free in the evenings – but you’re not the only one who knows that.
5. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela – Destination of the Pilgrims
Whether on foot, by bike, or simply in the comfort of a rental car – those who arrive are impressed. The facade is baroque splendor, and the Apostle James is said to be buried inside. You don’t have to believe it – just marvel.
Tip: Sit in the square in front and watch the happy, sweaty pilgrims.
6. Park Güell – Mosaic Magic with a View
Gaudi again, because he can. Park Güell is like a giant adventure playground for adults – with colorful benches, a dragon, and a view of all of Barcelona. Instagram hotspot included.
Tip: Parts of the park require a fee – but are worth every cent.
7. Aqueduct of Segovia – 2,000 years old and not a bit tired
No cement. No mortar. Just 25,000 granite blocks and Roman ingenuity. The aqueduct looks as if it were built by a giant – and has held its own since ancient times. And a charming old town surrounding it. Great!
Fun fact: People used to think this thing was built by the devil. You can see why.
8. Royal Palace of Madrid – Bling, bling, Bourbon style
A palace straight out of a picture book: 3,000 rooms, chandeliers, frescoes, and a deluxe package of courtly pomp. And the best part? The Spanish king doesn’t even live here – so you can wander through it at your leisure.
Tip: Admission is free for EU citizens on certain days. With ID!
9. Toledo – City of Three Cultures
Christians, Muslims, Jews – they lived together in Toledo for a long time. And that’s what you see: churches, mosques, synagogues, winding old town streets. All on a hill, hugged by the Tagus River. Sound poetic? It is.
Tip: Perfect day trip from Madrid (30-minute train ride).
10. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Modern Art Colossus
The building is the star. Really. A silver wave of titanium, right in the middle of Bilbao. Inside: modern art that provokes, inspires, or confuses. Just right, then.
Fun fact: This museum has awakened the whole of Bilbao – from an industrial coma to a hipster city.
✅ Conclusion: Spain has more than paella
Whether you’re a culture buff, a hobby photographer, or simply curious – these sights will show you the best Spain has to offer: history, art, architecture, and a good dose of wow.
Culture and history of Spain – Important topics on spanien-reiseinfos.de
| Theme | link |
|---|---|
| Art museums Spain | Art museums Spain |
| Bullfighting Spain | Bullfighting Spain |
| flamenco | flamenco |