From the thumping beats of nightclubs to the intoxicating rhythms of the flamenco, Spain is a land with a rich tradition and a sharp eye for the future. Fine art, revolutionary architecture, inspiring fashion and world class music — Spain is a lesson in diversity. From the official capital at Madrid to the cultural capital at Barcelona and the beach capital at Valencia, Spain has something for everyone, whether you're after beaches or sweeping plains, lively clubs or impressive cathedrals.
Madrid is the Spanish capital and largest city. Set in the heart of the country, Madrid doesn't have beautiful beaches to lure travellers; instead, the esteemed city has a vibrant beating heart, especially at night. Madrileños are fashionable and proud, rallying behind major football teams Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. For those inclined towards quieter modes of expression, the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia are amongst the world's best art museums - and just two of a handful of rewarding museums in Madrid.
Nestled on the Mediterranean coast in north east Spain, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and Spain's second largest city. But where the city might be slighted in size and population by Madrid, Barcelona stands tall as a distinct and beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. Among its most famous attractions is the Sagrada Familia, a cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudi which is still being completed (construction started in 1882).
Málaga is the capital of the "Costa del Sol," a hospitable, cheerful city that is one of the country's most popular destinations. Málaga is known for beautiful beaches, espetos of sardines, white wine, and some famous buildings, including a cathedral, museum and fort. Málaga has a mild to hot climate year-round and is also the birthplace of Picasso.
Valencia is a popular sea-side city on the Mediterranean coast, and Spain's third largest city. While the beach is an obvious drawcard, Valencia's charm is its emblematic combination of the old and new: traditional Baroque, Gothic and Neo-Classical architecture is contrasted with the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences.