Spain is a country that has it all: sun, sea, mountains, culture, and delicious cuisine. And when it comes to city breaks, Spain is definitely one of the best destinations in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural experience, or just some time to relax and unwind, there’s a Spanish city that will fit the bill. Here are some of the best city breaks in Spain.
Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, and for good reason. This city is full of stunning architecture, including the works of Gaudi, and there’s always something to see and do.
Things to do on a city break in Barcelona
My first visit to Barcelona was lovely, but I couldn’t help but wonder if I missed something, so I’d highly recommend taking a guided tour with a local to give you more of a feel for the city.
Visit the famous La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Make sure you book tickets in advance if you don’t want to miss out!
Stroll along Las Ramblas, a bustling pedestrian boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. It’s not the most budget-friendly but it’s a great place to people-watch while you eat.
Explore the Gothic Quarter, a historic neighbourhood with narrow winding streets and ancient buildings.
Places to stay
- Luxury: W Barcelona – A stunning 5-star hotel with panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Mid-Range: Hotel 1898 – A centrally located 4-star hotel with elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace.
- Budget: Generator Hostel Barcelona – A trendy and affordable hostel located in the heart of the city.
Madrid
Madrid is the capital of Spain, located at it’s heart, and it’s a city that’s full of culture and history. From the stunning Royal Palace to the world-class museums, Madrid has something for everyone. Be sure to sample the delicious food and wine while you’re here.
Things to do on a city break in Madrid
Madrid is an amazing place to wander around. Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid and its stunning gardens. Check out Plaza Mayor for its pretty buildings and people-watching.
Explore the famous Prado Museum, home to some of the world’s greatest art masterpieces.
Stroll through Retiro Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. Or if you’re visiting Madrid in autumn, an amazing place to see the changing leaves!
Madrid is easy to get around, so make the most of your weekend and get out of the city centre too. If you have a couple of extra days, there are lots of amazing day trips from Madrid to nearby beautiful places too.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hotel Ritz Madrid – An iconic 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, with a classic style and high-end amenities.
- Mid-Range: NH Madrid Nacional – A chic 4-star hotel with modern rooms and a central location.
- Budget: Hostal Persal – A simple and affordable guesthouse with comfortable rooms, located near the main attractions of the city.
Seville
Seville is a city in the south of Spain that’s known for its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. Be sure to try the local tapas and wine! It’s one of the best places to do so. You can see a lot in one day in Seville, so a weekend is a great amount of time to explore the city.
Things to do on a city break in Seville
There’s a saying that Seville is the perfect city; it just needs a beach! However, there are so many other amazing things to see there. I love visiting in summer when the oranges are on all the trees and the smell is in the air.
Visit the stunning Alcazar of Seville, a historic palace complex with beautiful gardens and architecture.
Explore the famous Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Take a stroll through the charming Santa Cruz neighbourhood, a historic area with narrow winding streets and picturesque buildings.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hotel Alfonso XIII – A luxurious 5-star hotel with a classic and elegant style located in the heart of the city.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Becquer – A modern and comfortable 4-star hotel located near the historic centre of Seville.
- Budget: Hostal Sevilla Santa Justa – A simple and affordable guesthouse with comfortable rooms located near the train station and the city centre.
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a city that’s located on the coast of northern Spain, and it’s known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively nightlife. Be sure to visit the historic old town and try some of the local pintxos.
Things to do on a city break in San Sebastion
Visit Playa de la Concha, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with crystal-clear waters
Explore the Parte Vieja, the old town of San Sebastian with its lively atmosphere and pintxos bars
Take a walk up Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city and the bay
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hotel Maria Cristina, a luxurious hotel located in the city centre
- Mid-range: Hotel Astoria7, a stylish hotel with a movie theme located near the beach
- Budget: Urban House Hostel, a cosy hostel located in the old town
Valencia
Valencia is a city that’s located on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, and it’s known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and rich history. It’s also the home of Paella!
Things to do on a city break in Valencia
You can see lots of things in Valencia in one day, so a weekend break is perfect for this Spanish city.
Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a cultural and architectural complex with impressive buildings and exhibits.
Stroll along the Turia River Park, a beautiful green area that runs through the city.
Explore the historic Central Market, a bustling indoor market with a great variety of food and local products.
Places to stay
- Luxury: SH Valencia Palace – A stylish 5-star hotel with modern amenities and a great location near the City of Arts and Sciences.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Dimar – A comfortable 4-star hotel located near Turia River Park and the city centre.
- Budget: Purple Nest Hostel Valencia – A trendy and affordable hostel with comfortable rooms located in the heart of the city.
Bilbao
Bilbao is a city that’s located in the north of Spain, and it’s known for its stunning Guggenheim Museum. This city is also home to some of the best food in Spain, including pintxos (tapas) and Basque-style seafood.
Things to do on a city break in Bilbao
Visit the Guggenheim Museum, a stunning museum of contemporary art designed by Frank Gehry
Wander through Casco Viejo, the old town of Bilbao, with its charming streets and colourful buildings
Take the funicular up to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city
Places to stay
- Luxury: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao, a modern hotel located across from the Guggenheim Museum
- Mid-range: Hotel Ercilla Lopez de Haro, a boutique hotel located in the city centre
- Budget: Bilbao Akelarre Hostel, a friendly hostel located in the old town
Granada
Granada is a city that’s located in the south of Spain, and it’s famous for its stunning Alhambra palace. This city is also known for its rich Moorish history, delicious food, particularly tapas, and lively nightlife.
It’s one of my favourite places in the whole of Spain, and I could visit again and again… and I do!
Things to do on a city break in Granada
Visit the stunning Alhambra, a historic palace complex with beautiful gardens and architecture. Check out my guide to booking Alhambra tickets.
Explore the charming Albaicin neighbourhood, a historic area with narrow winding streets and picturesque buildings. I’d suggest taking a walking tour to learn more about the city and what you’re seeing.
Keep an eye out for the amazing Granada Street Art too, especially in Realejo, the old Jewish quarter of the city.
Be sure to take a stroll along the Paseo de los Tristes, a picturesque street that runs along the river and offers stunning views of the Alhambra.
I’d also highly recommend seeing a flamenco show. I can recommend Perro Andaluz which is in a cave.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Parador de Granada, a historic hotel located within the grounds of the Alhambra
- Mid-range: NH Collection Granada Victoria, a modern hotel located in the city center
- Budget: White Nest Hostel, a stylish hostel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the Alhambra
Zaragoza
Zaragoza is the capital of the Aragon region in the northeast of Spain, and overlooks the Ebro River. It’s home to Mudéjar-style landmarks, combining Islamic and Gothic architecture. Often overlooked as a Spain weekend destination, we think it’s well worth adding to your list!
Things to do on a city break in Zaragoza
Visit the Basilica del Pilar, a stunning baroque church located on the banks of the River Ebro.
Explore the Aljaferia Palace, a Moorish palace with beautiful gardens and intricate decorations.
Take a stroll through the Plaza del Pilar, a lively square with street performers and outdoor cafes.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hotel Palafox, a grand hotel located in the city centre
- Mid-range: Hotel Boston, a modern hotel located near the Basilica del Pilar
- Budget: Hotel Sauce, a friendly hotel located in the old town
Almeria
This is where I lived in Spain, so I may be a little biased! Almeria often features on package holiday deals but these are out for outside of the city, whereas I think staying in the city itself offers the perfect Spanish weekend getaway.
There are plenty of things to do in Almeria, and it has, in my opinion, some of the best tapas in the south. Especially because they’re usually free with your drink!
Things to do on a city break in Almeria
Visit the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress from the 10th century with beautiful gardens and views over the city.
Explore the Cathedral of Almeria, a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the city centre.
Take a tour of the Los Refugios, an underground tunnel from the Spanish Civil War era, and be sure to try the tapas!
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hotel Elba Almeria, a modern hotel located near the city centre
- Mid-range: Hotel Nuevo Torreluz, a stylish hotel located in the historic centre
- Budget: Hostal Estación Almería, a friendly hostel located near the train station
Malaga
Malaga is the gateway to the Costa del Sol and Pablo Picasso’s birthplace. It’s a sunny, lovely city to visit for a weekend away in Spain. You can wander the vibrant streets, try tapas, and maybe even get out of the city to somewhere like Nerja.
Things to do on a city break in Malaga
Visit the Picasso Museum, a museum dedicated to the life and works of Pablo Picasso.
Explore the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress from the 11th century with beautiful gardens and views over the city.
Take a stroll along the Malaga Promenade, a long seaside walkway with beautiful views of the sea.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Gran Hotel Miramar, a grand hotel located near the
- Mid-range: Hotel Molina Lario, a modern hotel located in the city centre
- Budget: Alcazaba Premium Hostel, a cosy hostel located in the historic centre
Palma
Palma is the biggest city on the island of Majorca and offers an island city break weekend away! It has some wonderful history to explore and makes a great base for seeing more of the island and its beautiful beaches if you have the time.
Things to do on a city break in Palma
Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Palma.
Explore the historic centre of Palma, with its narrow streets, colourful buildings, and charming squares.
Take a stroll through Bellver Castle, a Gothic-style castle with stunning views over the city and the sea.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Palacio Ca Sa Galesa, a luxurious hotel located in the historic centre
- Mid-range: HM Balanguera, a modern hotel located in the city centre
- Budget: Hostal Apuntadores 8, a cosy hostel located in the old town
Cadiz
Situated in southwestern Spain, Cadiz is an often-overlooked Spain city break destination. It’s actually the oldest city in Western Europe, as it was founded 3,000 years ago by the Phoenicians.
Things to do on a city break in Cadiz
Visit the Cathedral of Cadiz, a beautiful Baroque-style cathedral located in the historic centre.
Explore the picturesque Plaza de las Flores, a lively square filled with colourful flowers, outdoor cafes, and local vendors.
Take a stroll along the stunning Playa de la Caleta, a small beach located in the heart of the city.
In February, there is the Carnival of Cadiz. It lasts for around 11 days and is a whirlwind of shows on the official stage, accompanied by open-air parties, fancy dress dancing and parties everywhere, and endless additional activities.
Groups compete for the funniest songs that make a mockery of and address the issues of today.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Parador de Cádiz, a luxurious hotel located near the seafront
- Mid-range: Senator Cádiz Spa Hotel, a modern hotel located in the city centre
- Budget: Casa Caracol, a cosy hostel located in the historic centre
Santander
Santander is the capital of Cantabria on the northern coast of Spain. It incorporates both green mountain landscapes and beautiful beaches.
Things to do on a city break in Santander
Visit the Magdalena Palace, a stunning palace located on the peninsula of the same name with beautiful gardens and views over the sea.
Explore the historic centre of Santander, with its elegant buildings, charming squares, and outdoor cafes.
Take a stroll along the Playa del Sardinero, a beautiful beach located in the northern part of Santander.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Eurostars Hotel Real, a grand hotel located near the Magdalena Palace
- Mid-range: Hotel Chiqui, a modern hotel located near the Playa del Sardinero
- Budget: Hostal del Carmen, a cosy hostel located in the historic centre
Alicante
Alicante is a smaller city to visit for a Spanish city break, but we like that! It has lovely beaches alongside colourful buildings and delicious food. Could you ask for more?
Things to do on a city break in Alicante
Visit the Castle of Santa Barbara, a historic castle with stunning views over the city and the sea.
Explore the historic centre of Alicante, with its colourful buildings, charming squares, and outdoor cafes.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Postiguet, a beautiful beach located in the heart of Alicante.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hospes Amerigo, a luxurious hotel located in the city centre
- Mid-range: Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza, a modern hotel located near the Castle of Santa Barbara
- Budget: X Hostel Alicante, a friendly hostel located in the historic centre
Salamanca
Salamanca is often called a “university town” thanks to its prominent university and its history as an intellectual centre. We love the architecture of the city and the beautiful sandstone buildings.
Things to do on a city break in Salamanca
Visit the Plaza Mayor, a beautiful and lively square located in the heart of Salamanca.
Explore the historic centre of Salamanca, with its stunning architecture, including the Old and New Cathedrals, the Casa de las Conchas, and the University of Salamanca.
Take a stroll along the River Tormes, which flows through Salamanca and offers stunning views of the city.
Places to stay
- Luxury: Hospes Palacio de San Esteban, a luxurious hotel located in a historic building near the Plaza Mayor
- Mid-range: Hotel Rector, a modern hotel located in the city centre
- Budget: Hostal Escala Luna, a cosy hostel located in the historic centre.
How to book a Spain Weekend Away/City Break
Do it yourself
It’s easy to plan your own Spanish weekend away! Most, if not all, of the above can be reached by direct flights from the UK or many other destinations in Europe.
You may have to fly a budget airline and pay extra for luggage, but you don’t need much on a weekend away, so it works out in this instance.
We’ve made accommodation suggestions for each place, but you can check further to see what’s available and what you like.
Transport into the city is generally easy from the airport because these are all bigger cities in Spain.
Package City Break Deals for Spain
There are several companies that offer package deals for flights and accommodation for weekends away in Spain. They can be a great cost-effective option for a Spain city break, but make sure you’re covered in case anything goes wrong with flights etc, as many operate on budget airlines which can have changes. Check reviews and always have travel insurance!
Here are some ideas:
Lastminute.com: Lastminute.com offers a variety of city break packages to Spanish destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Packages typically include flights and hotel accommodation for 2-4 nights.
easyJet holidays: easyJet holidays offers city break packages to Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Malaga. Packages typically include flights and hotel accommodation for 2-4 nights.
Jet2CityBreaks: Jet2CityBreaks offers city break packages to Spanish destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Packages typically include flights and hotel accommodation for 2-4 nights.
British Airways Holidays: British Airways Holidays offers city break packages to Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Malaga. Packages typically include flights and hotel accommodation for 2-4 nights.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other companies that offer similar packages. It is always a good idea to compare prices and packages from different companies before booking to ensure that you are getting the best deal.
Overall, Spain is a country that has something for everyone, and these cities are just a few of the many amazing destinations that you can visit. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a beach vacation, or just some time to relax and unwind, Spain is the perfect destination for your next city break.
Sonja x
Looking for more inspiration for Spain?
- Spain in Winter: Best Places to Visit
- 27 Most Beautiful Places in Spain You Should Visit
- 13 Spanish Festivals That Will Make You Want to Visit Spain
- 7 of the Most Beautiful Villages in Andalucía, Spain
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Each looks like such a fun time in Spain Sonja. We’ve been eyeing this country for a bit. Keep up the good blogging work.
Ryan