2024 saw Spain have a record-breaking year for tourists, with 138 million people arriving to enjoy the sunny capital of the Mediterranean.
And we can see why so many people picked Spain as their destination. The cities are some of the most vibrant in Europe and stay alive 24/7. Even during winter, when it’s a sunny day in Spain (most days), the streets will be lined with tables and chairs and people talking all afternoon.
With so many cities to pick from, each with its vibe and specialty they’re known for, we can understand anyone who has a difficult time picking where to go.
Read on for the most up-to-date guide to the top cities in Spain in 2025.
Mallorca
Dreaming of an ideal Mediterranean getaway? Majorca has pristine beaches, stunning mountains, a historic old town, and stunning Majorca villas with sea views. Relaxing or adventure is never an issue here. You can sip sangria on Cala Deià or go hiking the Serra de Tramuntana.
Things to Do
- Explore Palma’s Old Town—Walk past beautifully cobbled streets filled with local Gothic architecture. There are so many family-run, small cafes, shops, and restaurants here.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria—La Seu is Spain’s finest and most majestic cathedral guaranteed to leave you stunned.
- Take a trip to Sóller—a charming town with picturesque mountains around. Don’t miss out on the old wooden train!
- Enjoy the beaches—the crystal azure waters of Playa de Muro and Es Trenc are everything you would imagine and more.
Best Areas to Stay
- Palma de Mallorca—Bustling nightlife and beautiful beaches make it ideal for a first visit.
- Sóller—Picturesque, more peaceful ambiance makes it perfect if you want a more secluded stay in the mountains.
- Magaluf—Full of beach parties and lively nightlife, it is the ideal area if that’s what you are looking for.
Best Restaurants
- Adrián Quetglas—You won’t regret swapping contemporary Mediterranean cuisine for a Michelin star (your bank account might).
- El Camino—Located in Palma, mouthwatering tapas is served freshly prepared daily. It’s the best tapas in Spain (don’t tell Seville that!).
- Marc Fosh—The best of the bunch, serving deliciously creative Spanish cuisine with outstanding service.
Valencia
Valencia is one of the most popular Spanish cities. It has everything. It’s a city where the ancient and the modern coexist. The charming atmosphere of the old town is quite interesting, and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences looks like it is from outer space. And, how can we not mention it’s the birthplace of the delicious paella?
Things to Do
- Visit the City of Arts and Sciences—It is like entering a movie set of a sci-fi film. It’s a really cool day out!
- Walk through Turia Gardens—an immaculate park sitting on a former riverbed.
- See the Central Market—You’ll never want to leave the central market. It’s one of the most stunning food marketplaces in Europe.
- Hit the beach—Malvarossa Beach is ideal for a laid-back day at the seaside, especially in summer when the weather is too hot.
Best Areas to Stay
- El Carmen—This ancient part is now known for its entertainment.
- Ruzafa—This is a popular neighborhood full of artists and incredibly brilliant bars and cafes.
- Malvarrosa—Perfect for people who love the beach but still want some of the city vibe nearby.
Best Restaurants
- Casa Carmela—Notorious for its authentic paella (paella de marisco is the best!).
- Ricard Camarena—A Michelin-starred establishment with great imagination on dishes.
- La Pepica—A magnificent seafood restaurant located right on the beach serving freshly caught seafood.
Bilbao
Bilbao is incredible. Its industrial history and contemporary art make it one of Spain’s strongest hidden treasures. It is home to the Guggenheim, a stunning collection of modern art housed in a lively building. Bilbao also has a lively pintxos scene and a rugged coastline that attracts millions of visitors annually. And, Basque food is some of the best you’ll ever eat (don’t let the South hear you say that!).
Things to Do
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum—a stunning modern art museum designed by Frank Gehry.
- Wander through Casco Viejo—the old town filled with bars and boutique shops.
- Take the Artxanda Funicular—for the best city views.
- Day trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe—A massive monastery featured in Game of Thrones.
Best Areas to Stay
- Abando—Central and close to all the main attractions.
- Casco Viejo—Full of charm and historic character.
- Indautxu—A modern area with a great mix of shopping and nightlife.
Best Restaurants
- Nerua—A Michelin-starred restaurant inside the Guggenheim.
- Café Iruña—A classic, Moorish-style café serving excellent Basque cuisine.
- La Viña del Ensanche—One of the best spots for pintxos in the city.
We didn’t include big names like Madrid or Barcelona because everyone thinks to go there without the help of an article. And, in our opinion, they’re incredible cities, but there are better options. Do you have a Spanish city in mind to visit this summer?
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