Spain Travel Guide 2026: Top Cities, Places to Visit & Itineraries | Trip.com

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Barcelona | The City of Gaudí, where romance is carved into every stone

Many people come to Spain just for Barcelona✨ It has both the passion of the Mediterranean and the unique dreaminess of Gaudí. The scent of paella always drifts through the streets, and you can stumble upon architecture that defies imagination around every corner🏰 🚶Travel Guide This city is best explored at a leisurely pace! The Sagrada Família is an unmissable landmark. Its towering spires and colorful stained glass windows flow in the sunlight, making every visit feel like stepping into another world🌍 Park Güell is like a fairy tale sprinkled by Gaudí, with colorful mosaic benches, the lizard fountain, and undulating viewpoints that offer a bird's-eye view of the entire city🌈 Passeig de Gràcia is an architectural museum, with Casa Milà and Casa Batlló standing along the street. Their wavy facades and whimsical balconies will make you stop in your tracks📸 📷Photography Tips The interior of the Sagrada Família is a photography highlight! In the afternoon, sunlight streams through the stained glass, casting red, blue, and gold beams—every shot is a masterpiece🔥 The uniquely shaped chimneys on the roof of Casa Milà make for an excellent portrait background; the mosaic benches at Park Güell can frame both the fairy-tale architecture and the distant city~ For sunset by the sea, head straight to Barceloneta Beach, where the sunset dyes the sea honey-orange and the city skyline slowly lights up in the twilight🌅 Street-side cafes and flower markets are also incredibly photogenic, capturing that unique Mediterranean sense of relaxation with every snap☕ 🍴Travel & Food Exploration La Boqueria Market (La Rambla, 91, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona) is a foodie's paradise! Fresh fruit, freshly sliced Iberian ham, and a dazzling array of snacks will keep you lingering🤤 Open from 8:00 AM–8:30 PM, Monday–Saturday; it's closed on Sundays, so don't miss out~ You must try the paella, order a few tapas, and pair it with a glass of sangria🍷 The gazpacho and grilled squid in the old town's small bistros hide the most authentic Catalan flavors. If you're looking for souvenirs, pick up some chocolate, fruit wine, or Gaudí-themed merchandise🎁 💡Travel Tips Be sure to book your tickets for the Sagrada Família (Carrer de Mallorca, 401, L'Eixample, 08013 Barcelona) in advance; the tower access tickets are worth it! The city is great for light walking, but take the metro if you get tired🚇 The alleys of the Gothic Quarter are charming, but remember to keep an eye on your belongings~ Head to Montjuïc at dusk to catch the Magic Fountain⛲ Barcelona is more than just a place to check off your list; it weaves art into everyday life, allowing you to encounter the most passionate Mediterranean romance amidst the ancient alleys, beaches, and Gaudí's curves💃

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The Alhambra Palace | Granada

🇪🇸 The Alhambra Palace | Granada, Spain 🏰 One of Europe's most stunning palaces and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture that you simply have to see in person! The Alhambra Palace is perched on a hill in Granada, southern Spain. Built during the Nasrid Dynasty between the 13th and 15th centuries, it served as a palace, a fortress, and the royal residence of the Sultans. ✨ The Nasrid Palaces are a must-see highlight. The interiors are adorned with incredibly intricate stucco work, Arabic calligraphy, and delicate stone columns. The world-famous Court of the Lions, with its iconic fountain, is truly spectacular. Another breathtaking spot is the Court of the Myrtles, where a long reflecting pool mirrors the palace like a glass surface. The Generalife is equally beautiful, offering lush green gardens, fountains, and vibrant flowers for a peaceful and serene atmosphere. 🌿 Don't forget the Alcazaba, the ancient fortress where you can enjoy panoramic views of Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains. 📍 Visitor Information · Location: Granada, Andalusia, Spain · Winter Hours (Oct 15 – Mar 31): 08:30 AM – 6:00 PM · Summer Hours (Apr 1 – Oct 14): 08:30 AM – 8:00 PM · Alhambra General Ticket: €22.27 · Tip: Book well in advance as visitor numbers are strictly limited. · Duration: Expect to spend about 3–4 hours. · Important: You must enter the Nasrid Palaces at the specific time listed on your ticket and bring your original ID/passport. ❤️ My Impression The Alhambra has a charm all its own. It's not just about grand scale; it’s about the breathtaking artistic details found in every archway, pattern, and pool, all reflecting the splendor of a past civilization. It’s a place you can wander through for hours, and the more you know about its history, the more meaningful the visit becomes. If you're planning a trip to Spain, be sure to include Granada and the Alhambra Palace in your itinerary! 🇪🇸✨

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A must-visit golden church in Granada

Some churches soothe the soul with their tranquility, while others strike you the moment you step inside, overwhelming you with a dazzling display of gold that makes you hold your breath🤭. The Basilica of San Juan de Dios in Granada definitely belongs to the latter! Life in Granada has been slow these past few days. When I had some free time, I visited this legendary "Golden Church"💛. I knew it was known for its maximalist style, but seeing it in person was still deeply shocking! It is truly a party for maximalists🎉—a wave of golden splendor hits you all at once. It is gorgeous, intricate, and so exquisite it is dizzying~ I finally realized that the phrase "golden splendor" has a real-life embodiment!✨ The dome, the walls, the altar—every inch of space is filled with carvings. There is not a single blank spot, yet it is so beautiful it leaves you speechless😍. The extreme attention to detail and opulence is so breathtaking that you can feel it even through a screen! Granada, a 3-day itinerary👇 📍Day 1: Morning: Alhambra, get lost in the carvings and courtyards of the Nasrid Palaces🏰 Noon: Have an Andalusian lunch outside the palace and try some local specialties🍽️ Afternoon: Albaicín district, wander through the white alleys where every photo is a masterpiece📸 Evening: Mirador de San Nicolás, watch the sunset paint the snow-capped mountains and the palace pink🌅 📍Day 2: Morning: Granada Cathedral, see the perfect blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles⛪ Noon: Have some tapas in the city center—so delicious you will want to dance🥘 Afternoon: Basilica of San Juan de Dios, experience the ultimate opulence in this golden wonder✨ Evening: Sacromonte, see the gypsy cave dwellings and a flamenco performance💃 📍Day 3: Morning: Sierra Nevada, see the magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains and canyons🏔️ Noon: Have a barbecue at a mountain restaurant to recharge🍖 Afternoon: Visit the Arab bath ruins and feel the breath of history🕌 Evening: Return to the city, stroll through the streets of Granada, find a small tavern, and write the final footnote to these three days in Spain🥂

Travelpreneur

Madrid isn't boring—save this Citywalk guide.

Compared to Barcelona, Madrid might seem to lack that "must-visit-in-your-lifetime" appeal, but there's no denying that it's a city perfect for a Citywalk. Below is the route I personally tested, which took about half an afternoon. Feel free to follow it. · Starting from my hotel, I first went to the Victory Arch in the west. Many European cities have triumphal arches, and Madrid's is relatively less famous. Built in 1956 to commemorate the Battle of Ciudad Universitaria during the Civil War, it features Minerva driving a quadriga and holding a laurel wreath on top. Today, it's a bustling bus stop, and few people come specifically to see it; the weight of history has been smoothed over by daily life. · After taking the metro a few stops from the Victory Arch, I arrived at the Temple of Debod on a small hill. This is an authentic Egyptian temple. It was originally located on the banks of the Nile, 15 kilometers south of Aswan, and faced submersion due to the construction of a dam. To thank Spain for helping save the Abu Simbel temples, Egypt dismantled it into stone blocks and sent it as a national gift in 1968. It was rebuilt in its original form in 1972, with even its east-west orientation unchanged. · Having already experienced "temple fatigue" from seeing so many in Egypt, I didn't expect to see another one in Madrid. However, compared to the magnificent temples in Egypt, this Temple of Debod is quite miniature and not particularly impressive. Still, it's located at a high point in Madrid's city center, and many people were there waiting for the sunset when I arrived. · Walking down the hill, I merged into Madrid's most famous street, Gran Vía, which is lined with century-old theaters and shopping malls, getting livelier the further you walk. The Mercado de San Miguel is one of Madrid's largest markets. Built in 1916, it retains the steel columns and glass roof of the original food market, but the interior has been transformed into a gourmet food hall. · Further ahead is Plaza Mayor, an enclosed square completed in 1619, with four red walls enclosing a world of its own. Bullfights, coronations, inquisitions, and even executions have all taken place here, with the equestrian statue of Philip III standing in the center, witnessing it all. We visited during the Christmas season, and it was a bustling market. · Continuing east, you reach Puerta del Sol, which is also the "origin point" of Spain—the zero-kilometer marker for the national highway system is embedded in the sidewalk in front of the Post Office building. In the corner of the square stands the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a symbol of Madrid. It's said that every New Year's Eve, people gather under the clock tower to eat twelve grapes to the chimes of the clock. · Turning northeast from Puerta del Sol, the Metropolis Building at the eastern end of Gran Vía is Madrid's most famous skyline feature. This old building from 1911 features a winged Goddess of Victory atop its black dome. As the twilight sun hits the dome at an angle, golden light seems to flow down along her wings. · Walking a few more minutes along Calle de Alcalá, you reach Plaza de Cibeles. The goddess Cybele sits in a chariot pulled by lions in the center of the fountain. Behind her, the snow-white former Post Office building is now City Hall, and this is also where Real Madrid fans celebrate their championship victories. · Afterward, walking south along Paseo del Prado for ten minutes, the Neptune Fountain stands quietly ahead. Interestingly, it's the territory of Atlético Madrid fans. A city derby is claimed by two 200-year-old statues; perhaps Madrid is the only place in the world that arranges this so gracefully.

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Spain & Portugal 7-Day Itinerary | Explore 2 Countries Without Rushing

I totally get it! If it's your first time in Europe, don't just stick to France, Italy, and Switzerland. As a frequent tour guide, I highly recommend Spain and Portugal 🇪🇸🇵🇹. Experience Spain + Portugal in 7 days and 6 nights! See architecture, explore ancient cities, enjoy delicious food, and experience two distinct Southern European vibes in one trip. · ✨Day 1 | Barcelona → Valencia 📍Gaudi Architecture + Mediterranean Vibes ▪️Sagrada Familia: Experience Gaudi's fantastical architectural style ▪️City of Arts and Sciences: Very futuristic and photogenic ▪️Food Recommendation: Paella🥘 . ✨Day 2 | Valencia → Granada 📍Arabian Palaces + Romantic Sunset ▪️Alhambra: Exquisite carvings, courtyards, and fountains ▪️Mirador de San Nicolas: Enjoy views of the ancient city and mountains ▪️Sunset: Feel the romantic atmosphere of Granada🌄 . ✨Day 3 | Granada → Seville 📍Andalusian Vibes + Flamenco ▪️Plaza de España: Colorful tiles and arcades are super photogenic ▪️Royal Alcázar of Seville: Admire the exquisite courtyards and gardens ▪️Flamenco Show: Feel the passion and vitality of Spain💃 . ✨Day 4 | Seville → Lisbon 📍Vintage Trams + Portuguese Egg Tarts ▪️Belém Tower: Visit a classic Lisbon landmark ▪️Jerónimos Monastery: Admire the exquisite architecture ▪️Vintage Tram: Travel through the old town and experience daily city life ▪️Must-eat: Portuguese egg tart🥧 . ✨Day 5 | Lisbon → Toledo 📍Medieval Ancient City + Historic Architecture ▪️Toledo Old Town: Stroll through cobblestone alleys ▪️Ancient Churches and City Walls: Experience the blend of diverse cultures ▪️View from above: Overlook the red-brown rooftops and the panoramic view of the ancient city📸 . ✨Day 6 | Toledo → Madrid 📍Explore the Capital + Art Tour ▪️Puerta del Sol: Classic Madrid landmark ▪️Plaza Mayor: Experience the old town atmosphere ▪️Prado Museum: Admire world-class art collections ▪️Leisure Time: Visit cafes, taste local snacks☕ . ✨Day 7 | Madrid → Zaragoza → Barcelona 📍Riverside Ancient City + End of Journey ▪️Zaragoza: Pass through this historic city ▪️Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar: Admire the magnificent dome and architecture ▪️Return to Barcelona: End the Spain & Portugal trip🇪🇸 · ✔️It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Alhambra ✔️Southern Spain is hot in summer, try to avoid outdoor sightseeing at noon ✔️Lisbon has many slopes, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes ✔️The distance between cities in Spain and Portugal is not short, booking a Spain & Portugal tour is easier and more convenient

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Shin Katsu has introduced its first-ever chef-curated four-course tasting experience

Taking diners on a little journey through premium pork cuts from around the world, each with its own distinct texture and flavour! . We started with an appetiser platter of tofu, potato salad and truffle edamame before moving on to a selection of premium pork cuts from the two tasting menus, Gensen ($38++) and Gokusen ($48++). . Across the two menus, we sampled Hire Katsu from Canada, U.S. Kurobuta, Hungarian Mangalica, Sangenton Hire Katsu from Hokkaido and Iberico Rosu Katsu from Spain. Each was coated in a golden, crispy panko crust, with the meat remaining tender and juicy within. I enjoyed the variety, as tasting the different cuts side by side made the meal more interesting. . The experience rounded off with a comforting Mini Wagyu Menchi Katsu Curry Rice, followed by Matcha Ice Cream for dessert. . Also new on the menu is Shin Katsu's Katsu Sando collection, featuring crispy panko-fried pork cutlets sandwiched between soft, fluffy Japanese shokupan. Available in both Rosu (loin) and Hire (fillet) varieties, these are another satisfying way to enjoy their katsu!

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Barcelona | Gaudí's legendary twin houses: Casa Batlló + Casa Milà guide

Within just a few hundred meters on Passeig de Gràcia, two of Gaudí's legendary residences are hidden 🥹 One is a deep-sea dragon fairytale house, the other is a rocky, wave-like stone building. They are an 8-minute walk apart. If you come to Barcelona, you must visit both! ✅ One sentence to tell them apart, so you never have to struggle with choosing just one 🐉 Casa Batlló | A fairytale of the sea and dragons Nicknamed the "Dragon House," the exterior mosaic looks like fish scales. Dragon-bone staircase, gradient blue light well, immersive underwater world. Great atmosphere, perfect for photos. Best for those who love dreamy colors and immersive experiences 🪨 Casa Milà (La Pedrera) | A solidified sculpture of mountains and sea Gaudí's last private residence, no straight lines! The roof features the famous warrior chimneys, looking like alien warriors. 360° view of Barcelona, legendary at sunset. Strong architectural structure. Best for those who love minimalism and high-end textures 📍 Location: Both are on Passeig de Gràcia, about a 7–8 minute walk apart. Visit them together on the same route—no need to run back and forth! 🎫 Tickets & reservations (Important! Must book in advance during peak season!) ▫️ Casa Batlló Adult ticket is about €35. Available in Blue/Silver/Gold tiers. The standard Blue ticket is enough. Includes a gold Chinese AR guide—animations pop up when you point it at the walls! ⏰ Open: 8:30 AM–10:30 PM, last entry at 9:30 PM 👉 Recommend going in the morning; soft sunlight hits the colorful exterior, and it's relatively less crowded ▫️ Casa Milà Adult ticket is about €28. Includes a Chinese audio guide. Covers the attic + former residence + rooftop terrace ⏰ Summer hours: 9:00 AM–8:30 PM. There's also a beautiful night session with entry at 8:40 PM 👉 Highly recommend the sunset slot! The rooftop view of the sunset painting the city red, with the Sagrada Família framed in the distance, is a legendary photo spot! 📸 Must-visit photo spots | Follow these to blow up your social media feed 💙 Casa Batlló 1. Across the street from the facade to capture the full dragon-wave exterior 2. The dragon-bone spiral staircase; shooting from above gives a deep-sea vibe 3. The blue gradient light well; the layers of blue tiles are super healing 4. The curved main living room window with Passeig de Gràcia as the background 🤍 Casa Milà 1. The rooftop warrior chimney cluster! Iconic Barcelona shot 2. Looking down from the light well; layers of curves look like a stone vortex 3. The white rib-vaulted attic; minimalist and high-end light and shadow 4. Terrace panoramic view; capture the Sagrada Família in the same frame 🗺️ Recommended itinerary (2 options) Option 1 | Relaxed version (My top recommendation ✨) Morning 👉 Casa Batlló (1.5h) → Tapas lunch on the street → Afternoon sunset slot at Casa Milà (1.5h) Wait for the sunset after finishing; the pace is comfortable and not rushed Option 2 | High-intensity one-day Gaudí route Casa Batlló → Casa Milà → Take a taxi/metro to Sagrada Família. One-stop shop for the "three-piece set" ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls | Lessons learned! ❌ Don't buy tickets on-site! They sell out during summer and holidays. Lock in your time slot on the official website/platform in advance ❌ Prioritize the rooftop at Casa Milà! Many people tour the rooms first and miss the sunset; the rooftop is the soul of the building ❌ The sidewalk outside Casa Batlló is crowded with tourists fighting for photo spots. You can move a bit to the side of the avenue to avoid the crowds ❌ Lots of pickpockets on Passeig de Gràcia! Keep your bag in front of you; don't put it on the ground while taking photos ✅ Both have gift shops. The chimney ornaments at Casa Milà and the dragon-shaped bookmarks at Casa Batlló make great souvenirs ✅ Free bonus: If you don't go inside, you can still photograph the exterior from the street. If you're on a budget, just check it out from the outside 💡 Final thoughts Gaudí is truly so romantic. Only in Barcelona can you find houses built into fairytales 🌊 One is colorful and lively, the other is calm and majestic—two completely different kinds of awe. If you only have time for one: choose Casa Batlló if you love dreamy photos, or Casa Milà if you prefer architectural light, shadow, and sunsets! 💬 Question for you: For those coming to Barcelona, will you visit both, or choose just one? Let me know your choice in the comments 👇

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Who says taking kids to Europe = burning money? Barcelona begs to differ.

Who says broadening your horizons has to break the bank? Barcelona is truly so kid-friendly 🥹 Most attractions are free for kids, beaches and parks are completely free, and the pace is so slow you don't have to rush. ✨ Trip highlights (kids will say "wow") Sagrada Família is a must! Sunlight through the stained glass looks like a giant kaleidoscope. Kids under 12 get in free, but be sure to book on the official website in advance. Park Güell is free for everyone from 6–8 AM; the mosaic lizard is perfect for photos, and there's plenty of lawn for kids to run around and burn off energy 🦎. Barceloneta Beach is a zero-cost way to spend the afternoon; the sand is fine, the water is shallow, and there are lifeguards—just bring your own sand toys 🏖️. CosmoCaixa Science Museum is free for those under 16; it's the ultimate indoor spot for kids, perfect for rainy or hot days 🔬. The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is free to watch; the water jets dance to the music, and the kids will be mesmerized ⛲️. 🗓️ 3-day kid-friendly itinerary Day 1: Sagrada Família > Park Güell > Magic Fountain in the evening Day 2: Half day at Barceloneta Beach > €2 juice at La Boqueria Market Day 3: Science Museum > Picnic at Ciutadella Park to wrap up 🍴 Simple eats Churros with hot chocolate are €3–4 and kids love them. Fruit cups at the market are €1–2, and fresh-squeezed juice is cheap and refreshing. Local lunch sets are €10–15 per person, with veggies and meat, and not spicy. 📌 Travel tips For transport, buy the T-10 10-ride ticket for about €11; it works for both metro and bus and is super cost-effective for groups. Anti-theft awareness should be in your DNA! Wear your backpack on your front, and be especially careful on La Rambla. Most museums are closed on Mondays, so don't make a wasted trip. A sun hat and comfortable shoes are a must—Barcelona is perfect for walking 👟

ATJ. Mia 2876

SEVILLE 🇪🇸 — 6 PLACES THAT WILL STEAL YOUR HEART ❤️

Seville is the kind of city that stays with you long after you leave. From grand Moorish palaces and soaring Gothic architecture to orange-tree-lined streets and sun-drenched plazas, the Andalusian capital is bursting with character. Here, centuries of history meet the passion of flamenco, creating one of Spain’s most captivating destinations. ☀️ ⛪ 1. Seville Cathedral & La Giralda At the heart of the historic centre stands Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Step inside to discover soaring vaulted ceilings, elaborate chapels and an extraordinary sense of scale. Then look up to La Giralda, the former minaret turned bell tower that has become one of the city’s defining landmarks. Climb its ramps for sweeping views across Seville’s rooftops. 📸 🏰 2. Real Alcázar of Seville The Real Alcázar feels like stepping into another world. This royal palace blends Islamic, Mudéjar and Christian influences, with intricate geometric patterns, ornate arches and dazzling tiled walls. Outside, its gardens are just as memorable, filled with palm trees, fountains, shaded pathways and hidden corners. Allow plenty of time to explore, and book tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. 🌿 🏛️ 3. Plaza de España Few places capture Seville’s grandeur quite like Plaza de España. This monumental semicircular complex features sweeping colonnades, colourful ceramic bridges and a canal curving around its central square. Look closely at the tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces, or simply admire the architecture from beneath the covered galleries. Visit in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds. 🇪🇸 🌆 4. Las Setas de Sevilla For a completely different side of the city, head to Las Setas, officially known as Metropol Parasol. This enormous wooden structure rises above Plaza de la Encarnación, creating a striking contrast with Seville’s historic architecture. Walk along the elevated viewing platform for panoramic city views, particularly beautiful as the sun begins to set. Beneath it, you’ll find a lively square that reveals the city’s more contemporary side. 🌇 💃 5. Triana Cross the Guadalquivir River into Triana, a neighbourhood famous for its ceramic traditions, flamenco heritage and strong local identity. Explore the streets around Calle Betis, admire the colourful ceramics and soak up the atmosphere along the riverside. Triana is also a wonderful place to experience authentic flamenco in an intimate setting, where the music and dancing feel deeply connected to Andalusian culture. 🎶 🌸 6. Barrio de Santa Cruz Lose yourself in Santa Cruz, Seville’s enchanting old Jewish quarter. Narrow cobbled lanes twist between whitewashed houses, flower-filled courtyards and little squares shaded by orange trees. There’s no need to rush here. Wander through the winding streets, discover hidden architectural details and enjoy the atmosphere that makes Seville feel so romantic. Every turn seems

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