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Introducing Spain

You won't need to go far beyond the Alhambra of Granada and the streets of Barcelona to find the real Spain. Step away from the crowds and you'll find that this destination has retained its depth—centuries of history linger in hilltop villages, and wild landscapes abound from the craggy Pyrenees to the Mediterranean coast. This is where you come to revel in the good life, whatever that means to you: hiking through Galicia, embracing the architecture of Bilbao, or eating your way through the Basque Country

When is the best time to visit?
Generally, April-June and September-October offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak summer months. One exception is northern Spain, where springtime sees more rain than in other parts of the country; here, June-September is your best bet. July and August are the hottest months of the year—for sun worshippers, this could be the perfect time to visit. Learn More  

Where should I go in Spain?  
If you're heading to Spain for the highlights, you'll want to start with Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, and Seville. Not your first trip? Consider San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santiago de Compostela, and Valencia. And if you truly want to venture off the track, craft your itinerary from the literal road less traveled—hike through the Pyrenees to hidden villages, drink wine in La Rioja, explore Mérida and the Extremadura region, and the list goes on. 

How many days do I need?
While it's possible to have a fun trip to one of Spain's cities over a long weekend, we recommend at least 5 days if you really want to experience a region. Madrid makes for a great base for taking regional day trips, and the same goes for Barcelona—medieval coastal villages and hiking trails in the Pyrenees are all within driving distance.

If you have 10 days, choose between northern and southern Spain to minimize travel time. A southern route could include Madrid, Mérida (or another stop in Extremadura), Seville, and Granada. Travelers interested in the north can hit Barcelona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Oviedo, and Santiago de Compostela. With two weeks or more, geography is no longer an issue—just connect the dots to form a country-wide itinerary. Learn More

Getting around Spain
Most travelers fly into either Madrid or Barcelona, and short, domestic flights are a convenient way to hop between major cities. Flying is also the best option for reaching the Canary Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla. For areas without airports, Spain’s high-speed AVE trains are fast and comfortable. Driving is another good option, as cities are mostly connected by well-maintained highways. Learn more

Looking for inspiration? See our top Spain itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

Spain Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Set sail in Ibiza's turquoise waters
Map of Best of Barcelona & Ibiza - 8 Days
Best of Barcelona & Ibiza - 8 Days

This 8-day itinerary is pure holiday bliss on the Mediterranean. Kick off the trip in Barcelona, an enchanting European city that needs no introduction, where you'll have a few days to explore Gaudi's architectural masterpieces and the popular gastro scene (i.e. tapas galore). From here, you'll jet off to the capital of cool—Ibiza island—for five days of white-sand beaches, sparkling seas, and serious bohemian relaxation.

Catch a sunset from the top of gorge in Ronda
Map of Ultimate Andalusian Road Trip - 8 Days
Ultimate Andalusian Road Trip - 8 Days

This 8-day self-drive itinerary takes you from Málaga to Cádiz through a gorgeous section of Spain's southern coast. Along the route, you'll explore Andalusia's White Villages (including Ronda, set on a spectacular gorge) as you head towards the Atlantic coast while discovering a range of landscapes, centuries of history and tradition, local producers, and exquisite cuisine—often with the help of a local guide.

Bay of Biscay
Essential Basque Country - 5 Days

Discover the most emblematic spots of this gentle corner of Spain. Here you'll find ancient history, culture, and language, but a modern way of life with amazing gastronomy and wines. For nature lovers, there is also a wide array of great outdoor activities and fantastic beaches at the foothills of the Pyrenees. This 5-day itinerary helps you discover these great places, as well as learn about the Basque Country and its people.

spain
Map of Ultimate Tour of the Basque Country: Bilbao & San Sebastian - 5 Days
Ultimate Tour of the Basque Country: Bilbao & San Sebastian - 5 Days

In a mere five days, you can enjoy an unforgettable Spanish vacation. This is possible when you make the culturally rich Basque region your destination. This itinerary includes tours of Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum plus a coastal drive to San Sebastian, a seaside resort city of singular beauty. 

Spain
Map of Ultimate Southern Spain Road Trip: Madrid to Andalusia - 10 days
Ultimate Southern Spain Road Trip: Madrid to Andalusia - 10 days

On this 11-day self-drive adventure you'll visit not only the most historic cities in Spain, bust some of the most beautiful countryside in the Andalusia region. From Madrid, you'll travel south into Andalusia and arrive at Seville, a city renowned for its Gothic cathedrals, Moorish palaces, and expansive plazas. You'll also visit other Andalusia gems like Córdoba, the famed white villages, and the mountaintop city of Ronda. 

Caleta de Famara in northeastern Lanzarote
Map of Ultimate Canary Islands Tour - 8 Days
Ultimate Canary Islands Tour - 8 Days

This exciting 8-day itinerary covers the archipelago's three easternmost islands with the help of a private guide. Traveling by road and ferry, you'll discover historic villages, orchards, forests, mountains, beaches, volcanoes, and vineyards to understand just what makes this destination so unique. There will be plenty of free time to explore each isle's capital—especially in the evenings—to round out this fun adventure.

Make the Most of Your Time in Spain

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
The famous Alhambra in Granada, Spain
How Many Days to Spend in Spain

More a combination of culturally distinct regions than one homogenous country, Spain is almost too diverse to experience in a single trip—almost. You can enjoy the major areas...

Discover the best of Spain in one week
Map of 1 Week in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Spain, you can take a fast-paced trip to experience Spain's top cities, Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Or dive deeper into one region by sampling the legendary...

Spain
Map of 10 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can easily hop between three of Spain's great cities—Seville, Barcelona, and Madrid make a great pairing. Alternatively, you can combine the exploration of one...

Spain
Map of 2 Weeks in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two free weeks to spend in Spain, all options for fun and adventure are on the table. You can embark on food and wine tours throughout the country, laze on the white-sand...

Spain Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
The entrancing Moorish architecture of Andalusia
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Spain

With one of the longest and most popular coastlines in Europe and a siesta every afternoon, Spain practically insists on its visitors relaxing. Add in one of Europe's most...

Spain Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Barcelona from above
The 8 Best Boutique Hotels in Barcelona

Barcelona's hotels are as varied as the city's many attractions, whether you see it as the city of Gaudí and Picasso or a foodie haven. Choose a place to stay that reflects your...

Best Things to do in Spain

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Costa Brava, Spain
The Best Things to Do in the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a scenic stretch of Catalonia's coastline, extending from the French border in the north to the town of Blanes in the south. Dotted with rugged coves,...

Madrid, Spain
The Best Things to Do in Madrid

Many argue that Madrid is Spain's most cultural city, as its central location draws people, gastronomy, traditions, and customs from around the country. In Madrid, you can dive...

San Sebastián, Spain
The Best Things to Do in San Sebastián

Coastal San Sebastián sits in Spain's scenic north, in Basque Country. Known as a foodie hub, you can enjoy the city's culture with walking or e-bike tours and dive into the...

Ronda, Spain
The Best Things to Do in Ronda

One of the most popular white villages in Southern Spain, Ronda sits atop a dramatic cliff, providing stunning views of its surrounding countryside. You'll find a mix of relaxed...

Our Latest Spain Content

Pintxos on display
Map of Epic Wine & Culinary Trip Through Northern Spain - 11 Days
Epic Wine & Culinary Trip Through Northern Spain - 11 Days

Eat and drink your way through northern Spain on this 11-day gastronomic adventure. Begin in Barcelona, exploring the city and its surroundings on a tapas tour, a local organic winery tasting, and a sunset sailing experience. While digesting, experience Gaudí's world-famous architectural delights and sunbathe on city beaches. Take a train to San Sebastián and visit the world's first underwater winery, then wind your way to Bilbao to sample the Basque Country's famous pintxos and Txakoli wine.

Stylish bohemian rooms (photo courtesy of Hotel Petunia Ibiza)
The 8 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Ibiza

Thanks to Ibiza's cultural heritage of indulgence, even its mid-range hotels offer perks that you might expect at a luxury property. You can save a bit on your budget while still enjoying amenities like outdoor saltwater pools, yoga sessions, spas with water circuits and hammams, sunrise rituals, and sustainable eateries.

Can Lluc Hotel Rural
The 8 Best Rural Hotels in Ibiza

Though a relatively small island with a reputation for beach clubs and partying, Ibiza has a surprisingly large focus on agritourism. It's also known as the "rural island" compared to others in the archipelago, so you'll have plenty of choices for idyllic countryside stays with fun perks like farm-to-table eateries and outdoor yoga sessions.

Spain Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Spain map: 7 Days in Spain - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Spain - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Spain map: 10 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Spain map: 5 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Spain
Travel specialist Marina Courtaut
active 3 days ago

Marina Courtaut

Can you think of a better way to live adventures than traveling? When we travel we open our minds to new experiences and learn new cultures by making the destination we visited our home for a...

read more...
Travel specialist Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
active 1 day ago

Beatriz De Pablo Rocha

The combination of the two places where I grew up (Madrid and a small village in Badajoz, Extremadura) has made me a passionate traveler almost from birth. Unknown destinations visited by travelers...

read more...
Travel specialist Karin Eckhard
active 13 hours ago

Karin Eckhard

Although born and raised in New Hampshire, USA, I have had the fortune to live in places as diverse as Vail, Colorado; Salzburg, Austria; London, a small village in England and Madrid, Spain has...

read more...
Travel specialist Patricia Marques
active 3 days ago

Patricia Marques

I was born and raised in Barcelona (Spain). I started travelling at a young age, and I acquired the passion for traveling from my parents. My passion for traveling made me make the decision to...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Spain

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

KimKim Exceeds all Expectations
Spain | Dec 25 - Jan 3, 2023

David
David C.
San Francisco, CA | Reviewed on Jan 06, 2023

We admittedly were nervous entering our first experience with KimKim, not knowing whether the scheduled drivers and guides actually show up, what would the tours really be like, what about the hotels, would the restaurant reservations actually be reserved? Not to worry! Everything went exactly as scheduled, all drivers and guides were exceptional, the hotels were great (one spectacular), and the food astounding., and Marta was there every step of the way. The overall experience could not be... read more

We admittedly were nervous entering our first experience with KimKim, not knowing whether the scheduled drivers and guides actually show up, what would the tours really be like, what about the hotels, would the restaurant reservations actually be reserved? Not to worry! Everything went exactly as scheduled, all drivers and guides were exceptional, the hotels were great (one spectacular), and the food astounding., and Marta was there every step of the way. The overall experience could not be better. PS: We want especially to thank Marta for somehow getting us a New Year's eve reservation at José María after we had failed. It was a truly spectacular culinary experience. Marta is remarkable! Thank you.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Rector
Salamanca

This is a very small, boutique hotel is a perfect location related to the historic heart of Salamanca. The service was personalized and exceptional. The rooms were beautiful and well-appointed. We were greeted with champaign and some special treat every night. This is one of the best hotels we have experienced anywhere we have travelled. We cannot recommend it too highly.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful throughout; with very classy art and decoration.
Location
Staff
Carried bags to room before we knew they were gone. Nothing they would not do to be helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Simply perfect!
Hotel Palacio de Valderrábanos
Ávila

Perfectly located right next to the Cathedral in the heart of the old city. Nothing fancy, but very pleasant.

Authenticity & Character
In historic structure well repurposed.
Location
Could not be better located.
Staff
Professional and accommodating. Expect to carry your own luggage.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel San Antonio El Real
Segovia

We initially thought that the hotel was badly placed, outside the walls of the old city. It turned out to be a perfect location to follow the Roman aqueduct into town. For those with cars, it actually has a parking lot, which you will not find in the city center.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Expect to carry your own luggage. Facility with English was helpful. Accommodating in every way.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nothing special, but pleasant.
Hotel Madrid Alameda Aeropuerto, Affiliated by Meliá
Madrid

Much higher quality, more pleasant and less generic than your average airport hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
10 minutes to the terminal. In a neighborhood of apartment residences.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Day Excursion to Douro Valley, Wine Tasting & River Cruise
Porto

This was the highpoint of our two weeks in Iberia. Coming from California wine country, BUT already hooked on Duoro red wines, we were not prepared for the steep hillsides and rugged beauty of the river. Second, the specific driver, Rui, was remarkable: Personable, knowledgeable, and responsive. He specifically approved of the choice of Quintos de S. Tiago in Mesâo Frio, which on the outside is a dump that no-one would pull off and visit on their own--burned out buildings, junky driveway, humblest of houses. But, upon entering the house through an open-hearth kitchen, we knew we were in for something special. The food, the wine, the atmosphere, and the host made this the Quinta an unforgettable experience. Keep using Rui and this particular Quinta.

Quality of Experience
It rained all day, and we didn't care. Even the river cruise was perfect.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everything you could want in a driver--and more. He really opened up after he became familiar with us.
Transport
Guided Visit of Salamanca
Spain

Our guide met us in a timely manner at the hotel and walked us through the University and Cathedral and associated areas. She was delightful, but overly detailed about things that interested her and not necessarily sensitive to whether or not it interested us. She was particularly absorbed with esoteric marginalia about the university. Eventually, after the tour was 30 minutes longer than scheduled, we (gently, I hope) asked her if we could have the opportunity to explore on our own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Didn't like: Driver knew very little about stops along the way.
Guided Visit of Ávila
Spain

With certificates in tourism and theology, our guide provided the perfect introduction to Avila and its two saints--Teresa and Juan de la Cruz. He quickly picked up our interest in them and shaped the tour and his message to our interests. For instance, at the chapel built in the room where Teresa probably was born, he emphasized the holiness of the space, not the art of the chapel, and he asked if we wanted some time just to sit in prayer and contemplation; we did. He also recommended the monastery where Teresa had trained and lived, and we found it to be a deeply moving experience. I was in the museum business for 40 years, and I deeply appreciated the simple presentations, the unprotected access to the "things," and the freedom to explore on our own time. Our guide reflected that receptive and trusting attitude and helped us discover meaning and treasures beyond the formal tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The tour guide provided the perfect introduction and shaped it to our obvious interests as we went. He was responsive and suggestive, with great integrity.
Transport
Privately Guided Visit of Segovia
Spain

This was the most traditional tour of the trip. The handed us ear plugs, spoke into a microphone, and largely led with her back to us. She would have fit as a tour guide in San Francisco. At the same time, she provided a marvelous orientation to the city, not too detailed, but with enough off the wall items--like the first book published in Spanish--to make it fascinating. A special commendation: When she informed us that the Cathedral was closed New Year's Eve (the day of our tour) and New Year's Day, we noted that January 1st was a Sunday, she called a friend to check on service times, which we attended the next day. That is the kind of personal responsiveness you would seldom receive on a tour in the United States. She also helped us plan our walking for the next day. We are grateful for her tour and assistance.

Quality of Experience
There is so very, very much packed into this small city.
Quality of Experience
There is so very, very much packed into this small city.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transport
Local specialist: Marta Trzeciakowska

Amazing Spain and Portugal
Spain | Sep 6 - Sep 29, 2022

K
Kay N.
Australia | Reviewed on Jan 04, 2023

This trip began in Nov 2019 just before Covid hit so unfortunately we had to postpone until Sep 2022. Sam was incredibly helpful with planning and tweaking to accommodate our changes.
We were amazed by the level of detail Sam provided and we actually spoke to him by phone from Spain which left us feeling very comfortable with the itinerary and that everything was above board.
We absolutely got value for money. Accommodation was 95% very good with just a couple of little glitches but... read more

This trip began in Nov 2019 just before Covid hit so unfortunately we had to postpone until Sep 2022. Sam was incredibly helpful with planning and tweaking to accommodate our changes.
We were amazed by the level of detail Sam provided and we actually spoke to him by phone from Spain which left us feeling very comfortable with the itinerary and that everything was above board.
We absolutely got value for money. Accommodation was 95% very good with just a couple of little glitches but these were compensated with other items. Drivers, guides and transport were above what we anticipated.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Kimkim in general but Sam in particular.
In fact, we are currently trying to organise a trip to the UK with Kimkim and do so very confidently

Local specialist: Sam Lister

Fabulous Trip to Spain thanks to Marina and kimkim!
Spain | Dec 18 - Dec 31, 2022

K
Kathleen L.
Evanston, IL | Reviewed on Jan 02, 2023

We’ve traveled extensively through Europe and always planned our own trips but we didn’t have time to plan this year. Luckily we found kimkim which focuses on independent travelers.

Our journey started in Barcelona. We flew to southern Spain rented a car and stayed in Granada, Seville and ended our trip in Madrid.

Marina planned a wonderful trip for us. From the moment we started planning and throughout the actual trip Marina and her team were very responsive and always available to... read more

We’ve traveled extensively through Europe and always planned our own trips but we didn’t have time to plan this year. Luckily we found kimkim which focuses on independent travelers.

Our journey started in Barcelona. We flew to southern Spain rented a car and stayed in Granada, Seville and ended our trip in Madrid.

Marina planned a wonderful trip for us. From the moment we started planning and throughout the actual trip Marina and her team were very responsive and always available to answer any questions.

All the activities Marina organized went off beautifully. The guides we had for each walking tour of the cities were on time and excellent.

In Barcelona we enjoyed a tapas dinner and Marina got us excellent seats at a concert in the marvelous Palau Música and tickets to Gaudi locations.

Loved the Scents tour of Granada and all the recommendations given of what to do and where to eat in each city. We had a particular interest in Pedro Almadovar and Marina provided lots of information from film locations to where he lived and personal background.

The app was incredibly helpful and easy to use so all four of us knew the itinerary. The tickets were easy to pull up in the app and guides phone numbers available.

Thank you Marina for all your help. We look forward to using kimkim again.

Hotel Reviews
Midtown Apartments
Barcelona
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments - Madrid Suites
Madrid
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chez Moi - Plaza Nueva Luxury Apartment
Granada

Incredible views of Alhambra from apartment and rooftop. Meticulously cleaned. Management very helpful. Loved this place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luz de Sevilla Apartment
Seville
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Tapas Culinary Experience
Barcelona
Private Tour of Barcelona & La Sagrada Familia
Barcelona
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Granada
Tour of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
Spain
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Flamenco Show
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guided Visit of Seville
Seville
Self Drive {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Córdoba
Spain

Cordoba is a wonderful stop along the way to Madrid.

Guided Visit of Toledo
Spain

Take this day trip. High speed train excellent. Cathedral fabulous. Toledo incredible.

Guided Visit of Madrid: History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Madrid
Local specialist: Marina Courtaut
Marina
Marina Courtaut
Local specialist in Madrid | Reviewed on Jan 04, 2023

Hi Kathleen, thank you so much for taking the time to write your trip review! I am thrilled to hear you and your family had such a marvelous time in Spain. It was my pleasure to work with you and organize this experience for your family. I even learn my self some interesting facts about Almodovar when preparing your travel documents ;) I will pass on your kind word to all the team. Thank you again for letting us be a small part of your trip :) Warmest regards, Marina