The Ultimate Spain Bucket List (50 Top Experiences)

Are you looking for the ultimate Spain bucket list?

As a Spaniard who has been travelling around Spain for a long time, I know there are many incredible activities to do, and if you don’t want to miss them, I have you covered.

Spain is a diverse country in which you can enjoy a wide range of experiences – from visiting some of the most beautiful buildings in Europe, like Sagrada Familia and Alhambra, and eating delicious food to attending lively traditional festivals and fairs.

If you love this beautiful Mediterranean country and want to start a Spain bucket list, in this blog, you’ll discover some of the most amazing experiences in Spain from a local perspective.

This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.

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Experiences in Northern Spain

1. Visit a winery in La Rioja

Are you a wine lover? Then you really need to visit La Rioja region. This is one of the best places in Spain to go wine tasting.

La Rioja is home to wine museums, well-known wineries and incredible restaurants where you can enjoy some of the most delicious Spanish tapas.

It’s a wine and food paradise, and taking a wine tour is always a good option. Local guides will take you to the best wineries in the region, tell you the secrets behind good wine and tell you a bit more about this beautiful part of Spain.

You won’t leave La Rioja without trying a Rioja wine!

2. Go to Guggenheim Bilbao Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Bilbao. It’s the most emblematic museum in Northern Spain.

This museum and art gallery are home to beautiful sculptures and art pieces; if you love the modernism period, you must add the Guggenheim Museum to your itinerary.

It’s a museum that you can’t rush to see. There are more than two floors and plenty of exhibition rooms to explore, and if you opt to listen to the audio guide, you’ll definitely spend a lot of time here.

In addition to this, don’t forget to see impressive sculptures such as the Giant Spider and the Puppy, the world’s largest flower sculpture, just outside the museum. They were my favourites!

Find and book tickets to the museum here.

3. See the Magdalena Palace

Palacio de la Magdalena is a beautiful fairytale palace in Santander in Northern Spain. The moment I saw it, it reminded me of Shrek’s castle.

The palace is on the Magdalena Peninsula, surrounded by the sea, and is a popular spot among locals and tourists.

Initially, the purpose of this palace was to provide a seasonal residence for the Spanish royal family. Although it served as a residence, it was declared a historical monument in 1982.

Not only can you visit Magdalena Palace and learn about the royal family, but you can enjoy the sea views from the cliffs, see a small open zoo with seals and penguins, and take a train tour.

Palacio de la Magdalena is one of the top things to do in Santander. I highly recommend visiting and exploring its gorgeous peninsula.

4. Eat pintxos in San Sebastian

When visiting Northern Spain, you don’t eat tapas but pintxos. They’re extremely popular in Basque Country, La Rioja, Cantabria and Asturias, but San Sebastian is the best place to taste the most delicious pintxos.

These consist of small bites that often have meat, vegetables, or fish, put together with a toothpick on top of a slice of bread. You can find pintxos of tortilla (Spanish omelette), octopus, croquettes, and much more.

If you go to any bar or market, you’ll be able to enjoy these tasty pintxos, which are a big part of Northern Spain’s culture. They’re synonyms for socialising with friends and others.

5. Visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Have you ever watched season 7 of Games of Thrones? Then you’ll probably recognise this beautiful location.

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a islet 40 minutes from Bilbao in Northern Spain.

The islet is connected with the mainland by a man-made stone bridge; then, it transitions into a path with about 240 steps and zigzags to the top.

A local legend says that when you reach the top church, you must ring the bell three times to make a wish.

Visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a unique experience that you need to add to your list when you visit the Basque Country.

6. Explore the fishing village of Cudillero

Cudillero is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Spain. This little fishing village, which sits on the side of a mountain, is a must-see destination when visiting Asturias.

Its colourful houses, small but charming port and hanging buildings make it a picturesque and unique destination.

It isn’t a village with many sights, but it’s still worth visiting, exploring its streets and port as well as relaxing at its stunning beach, Playa del Silencio, on a warm spring or summer day.

7. Hike Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago, St James Old Way, is one of the most popular hiking trails in Spain.

However, there isn’t only one route on the Camino de Santiago. For example, you can take the Camino del Norte route, which takes you through some of the lushest and greenest areas in Northern Spain, or the Camino Portugués route, which starts in Portugal.

No matter which route you take, all of them take you to Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, home to the tomb of Saint James, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.

Walking Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable experience.

8. Take part in La Tomatina

Have you ever heard of a festival where people throw tomatoes at each other? Well, that festival takes place in Buñol in Valencia, Spain!

This food fight is held on the last Wednesday of August every year, and tons and tons of tomatoes are thrown in the streets.

It’s one of the most fun experiences in Spain, but you need to know that it has become so popular that it is very difficult to find accommodation in this town during those dates.

Therefore, if you want to attend La Tomatina, you can stay in Valencia and take the bus or train to Buñol.

9. Go inside Sagrada Familia

Seeing the Sagrada Familia is a top bucket list experience in Barcelona. This unfinished but emblematic work of art is one of the world’s most beautiful and unique buildings.

Not only will it amaze you from the outside, but the inside too. When you go inside, you’ll be mesmerised by the amount of detail and work Gaudí put into this building.

Local natural elements inspired Gaudí, and this is seen in the columns, which look similar to trunks and rooftop details like sunflowers.

On top of this, it’s beautiful to admire the colourful stained glasses that are reflected on the floor.

I’ve visited La Sagrada Familia a couple of times, and it amazes me every time. It’s impressive to see how much work they’ve done.

10. Go on a day trip to Montserrat

When you plan a trip to Barcelona for longer than 3 days, you’ll want to check out all the incredible day trips you can do from the city.

One of the most popular day trips from Barcelona is Montserrat as it’s very accessible by public transport.

If you’re wondering if it’s worth visiting Montserrat, the answer is yes. It’s a lovely Mount home to a few beautiful attractions like Montserrat Monastery, an art gallery and a cable car that offers breathtaking views.

But Montserrat isn’t only for sightseeing but for going on hiking trails, too. It’s the perfect day trip if you love a combination of nature and attractions.

11. Admire the views from Park Güell

Barcelona is home to many picturesque places, and Park Güell is one of them.

Not only is it a must-see natural space, but it is also an open gallery where you can see sculptures, monuments and some of the most beautiful views of Barcelona city.

Walking around the park and its gardens is a unique experience – beautiful palm trees, green parakeets flying over, colourful mosaic sculptures and interesting buildings like the Gaudi House Museum.

📌TIP: The park gets very busy as it’s visited by travellers from around the world. This is why I recommend going to Park Guell before the monumental area opens and, if possible, on a weekday.

Experiences in Eastern Spain

12. Watch las Fallas in Valencia

Las Fallas is one of the most unique events in Spain and something you want to add to your Spain bucket list. It’s that unique that it has been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

This traditional festival lasts five days and consists of a street party with fireworks, light shows and fallas, and spectacular statues that are burnt.

These statues are very impressive and tall, ranging from famous cartoons to politicians and celebrities.

Las Fallas are held between March 15th and 19th, so if you plan to visit Valencia in the future, consider going during these dates.

13. Eat a traditional paella in Valencia

When someone asks you about Spanish food, paella is probably one of the first dishes that comes to mind.

This traditional dish from Valencia is the most popular one in Spain, but that doesn’t mean it’s always cooked. Some Spaniards follow the tradition of cooking paella on Sundays, but there isn’t a rule on when to eat paella.

It’s a typical dish to prepare when you gather with friends and families as it’s cooked in a big paella (a paella pan) from which you mark your portion and eat it.

Although not everyone eats it this way, this is the authentic way to have paella! My uncle, who is from Valencia, wouldn’t have it any other way.

No matter which area of Spain you visit, you must try paella or take a paella cooking lesson to learn how to make one.

14. Explore the colourful town of Villajoyosa

Nestled between Benidorm and Alicante, Villajoyosa is a small town well-known for its colourful houses, stunning beaches and delicious chocolate.

It is a great day trip from Alicante and the perfect place for those who want to experience a more relaxed and less touristy place in the Costa Blanca.

Visiting the old town of Villajoyosa is one of the best and most free things to do in this charming town. Here you can explore its streets, have some tapas at the bar and visit the chocolate museum, which I wished was open when I went on my day trip from Alicante.

Also, there’s no visit to Villajoyosa without hitting the beach!

15. Visit a pink lake

Did you know that there is a pink lake in Spain? Yes, you heard right.

La Laguna de Torrevieja, located in Alicante, is one of the wonders of nature you wouldn’t expect to find in Spain but in far-away tropical destinations like Indonesia or Mexico.

The Pink Lake of Torrevieja is inside the Nature Park of Lagunas de la Mata and Torrevieja, and here you can see this eye-catching bubblegum pink lake, spot flamingos, and visit the interpretation centre to learn about this unique place, which is also a significant producer of salt in Spain.

16. Stay at La Muralla Roja

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You’ve probably seen La Muralla Roja before, but if not, it’s a pink building with unique architecture and stunning sea views in Calpe, on the Costa Blanca.

It’s a very picturesque building. However, you can’t just turn up there to take photos because it’s an apartment complex. You must book accommodation to access the inside of the building, which has interconnected patios, a roof and a pool.

Many friends have told me that the rooms aren’t out of this world. They’re average for what you pay, but wandering around the building and contemplating the sea views from the apartment makes your stay unforgettable.

17. Explore Cartagena

Cartagena is a hidden gem in Spain. This lesser-known city located in the region of Murcia takes you back to Roman times.

Its impressive Roman Theatre, archaeological museums and castle are some of the highlights of Cartagena. It’s a city where you can get immersed in history and learn about previous civilizations in Spain.

In addition to history and archaeology, Cartagena is also a place for foodies.

Experiences in Central Spain

18. Walk in El Retiro Park

A green oasis in the heart of Madrid, El Retiro is one of the most impressive parks in the country and was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Not only will you be surrounded by pure nature but also gorgeous monuments and sculptures, and there are many things you can do in El Retiro – from visiting La Rosaleda (the Rose Garden) and seeing the Crystal Palace (see photos above) to renting a rowboat with friends.

Exploring this park is a must-do activity and needs to be on your Madrid bucket list.

19. Eat churros con chocolate

Churros con chocolate is the perfect breakfast for those with a sweet tooth. What’s not to like about delicious deep-fried churros (fried dough like doughnuts) dipped in thick hot chocolate?

Regardless of the Spanish destination you plan to visit, you must go to a breakfast bar where they serve churros. There’s nothing better than having a few churros with chocolate on a winter day.

However, if you aren’t a big fan of chocolate overload, there are many bars that serve other sauces to dip in churros, like dulce de leche (caramel sauce).

If you visit Madrid, Chocolatería San Ginés is a must. My partner and I loved the churros and chocolate. By the way, they also have delicious ice creams.

20. Eat the twelve grapes at Puerta del Sol in Madrid

Are you looking for new destinations to celebrate New Year’s Eve? You won’t regret choosing Madrid.

Spaniards have a different type of Christmas compared to other countries like the United Kingdom or Poland, as well as a unique way of celebrating the beginning of a new year.

To celebrate the New Year in Spain, you must eat 12 grapes at the rhythm of the 12 chimes just before midnight. By eating these, you’ll have good luck in the upcoming year.

Although most Spanish families celebrate this at home, experiencing it in Puerta del Sol is a unique experience. This is where the whole of Spain follows the clock, and the atmosphere is amazing.

21. Visit Segovia, one of the oldest cities in Europe

An incredible day trip from Madrid is Segovia, one of the oldest cities in Europe. You can get tickets here.

If you love learning about Spanish history and culture while travelling around Spain, Segovia must be on your itinerary.

This World Heritage City is home to a beautiful cathedral, an impressive aqueduct and a Jewish Quarter that is worth wandering around. The city is also a great culinary spot to try some traditional dishes in the area, like roast suckling pig or lamb.

22. Visit the historical city of Salamanca

Spain is home to numerous historical cities, and Salamanca is on the top list.

Salamanca is the perfect getaway from the buzzing city of Madrid. This charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with history and culture.

Explore its cobbled streets in the historic old quarter, go to the prestigious University of Salamanca and visit not only one but two beautiful cathedrals.

Although you can see the main attractions in one day, it’s worth staying overnight and wandering around the city in the evening when the buildings light up, and the place becomes even more magical.

23. Visit Toledo

Toledo is one of the best historical cities to visit in Spain, and exploring this charming city is a true experience.

Walk along Puente de Alcántara, visit the synagogue, explore Monasterio de San Juan de Los Reyes, wander around the old town and Jewish Quarter, and soak up all the history behind Toledo.

One of the best ways to explore Toledo is by taking a guided tour with a local guide who can take you to the must-see attractions and show you some hidden gems.

No matter how you explore the city, you can’t leave Toledo without trying marzipan. El Café de las Monjas is the best place to do so.

Experiences in Southern Spain

24. Explore Cabo de Gata-Níjar National Park

Some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain are in Cabo de Gata-Níjar National Park.

This natural park is known for its unique rock formations (cliffs, caves, etc.) and crystal-clear water beaches that are difficult to find anywhere else in the country.

Exploring Cabo de Gata is an experience, and there are many activities you can do – from taking a fun kayaking tour and scuba diving to learning about the vegetation and fauna of this place and relaxing at virgin beaches.

There is no visit to Cabo de Gata without seeing Arrecife de las Sirenas, an outcrop of rocks sticking up out of the blue sea.

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25. Ski at the Sierra Nevada

Most people have this misconception that Spain is sunny and warm, but the truth is that Spain is very diverse, and you can find cooler temperatures, too.

One of the best places to see the snow in Spain is Sierra Nevada in Granada, the only ski resort in Southern Spain.

Sierra Nevada is the perfect place for snowboarding, skiing, or taking a spa break, and it has scenic views. In addition to this, you’ll find the highest mountain on Spain’s mainland, Mount Mulhacen.

It’s the perfect winter getaway, but you can also visit Sierra Nevada off-season as you can experience this beautiful natural area differently, like going on hiking trails.

26. Visit a whitewashed town in Southern Spain

Southern Spain is home to beautiful whitewashed towns and villages, and there’s even a recognised route called “Ruta de los pueblos blancos”, which consists of the most beautiful white towns between the provinces of Malaga and Cadiz.

If you have enough time to visit beyond Andalusia’s main cities, explore some of these picturesque white towns.

Not only are these towns beautiful, but they’re perfect for immersing yourself in the Andalusian culture, as each one has food, traditions and unique views.

Some of the most popular white towns include Frigiliana and Ronda in Malaga and Setenil de las Bodegas, Vejer de la Frontera and Olvera in Cadiz.

27. Admire the views of Balcon de Europa in Nerja

Whitewashed buildings, pristine beaches and stunning nature make Nerja a must-see destination on the Costa del Sol. It’s one of my favourite beach towns in Malaga to visit in summer.

Nerja has many activities to offer – from kayaking and visiting its caves to eating delicious traditional fish dishes and relaxing at one of its crystal clear sea beaches.

However, one of the best things to do in Nerja is to admire the views of the famous Balcón de Europa, a viewpoint that offers a postcard view of Costa del Sol – the contrast of beautiful whitewashed buildings, the sea and mountains.

The best times to admire the views of this incredible viewpoint are sunrise and sunset. The colours of the sky make it even more magical.

28. Hike El Caminito del Rey

Caminito del Rey is one of the most incredible hiking trails in Southern Spain.

This path used to be the most dangerous hiking trail in Europe for a long time, but you don’t need to worry now, as it has been restored and adapted for the public, so it’s safe to do.

However, you still need to feel brave enough to walk through this 8-kilometre path, which is hanging over 100 metres up on a sheer cliff face.

It’s a unique experience that involves contemplating stunning cliffs, canyons, and a large valley. I would love to do it again!

29. Visit the Alhambra

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most beautiful Moorish masterpiece in Spain.

The Alhambra is a complex with numerous palaces, sculptures, monuments, gardens and courtyards that will take you back to those times when Spain was conquered by the Muslims.

Although a few parts of the Alhambra were built before the Muslims arrived in Spain, it was rebuilt by Mohammed ben Al-Ahamar, the Emirate of Granada, during the middle of the 13th century.

The palace went from being a military base to a royal residence and nowadays is one of the most visited palaces in Spain.

30. See Seville Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Spain

Seville Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Spain and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

This Roman Catholic cathedral located next to the Santa Cruz neighbourhood and the Alcazar palace complex is a true gem.

Walking through the different parts of the cathedral is an experience, as each place has a story behind it. From here, you can access its tower, La Giralda.

From La Giralda Tower, you’ll enjoy some of the best views of Seville’s city centre.

31. Watch a flamenco show

One of the top cultural experiences to add to your bucket list is watching a flamenco show, and the best place to do so is Seville, the birthplace of this traditional music and dance.

If you don’t have the opportunity to visit Seville, you can also watch a flamenco show in other Andalusian cities like Malaga and Granada.

Flamenco is part of the culture of Andalusia, and it’s a very technical dance to learn, so you’ll be one hundred per cent impressed by the steps and rhythm of the music.

Watching a live show is an entirely different experience than seeing it on TV.

32. Attend Feria de Abril

If you’re looking for authentic cultural experiences in Spain, you’ll want to attend the Feria de Abril in Seville. As its name suggests, this event takes place in April and is one of the most famous events in Andalusia.

Be ready for a week of colourful traditional flamenco dresses, fireworks, attractions, delicious food, and wine (including rebujito, Seville’s traditional wine).

Eat and drink at the many beautifully decorated booths, attempt to dance flamenco or watch the passionate flamenco dancers, go on a ride or simply walk through the event complex while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

You’ll realise that Andalusian people know how to celebrate things at a different level.

33. Explore Cordoba’s mosque-cathedral

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, known as La Mezquita, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984 and is one of the most famous churches in Europe.

Its impressive architecture, composed of Islamic with Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine touches, makes it a very special place to see.

Wandering around La Mezquita is an experience for those who love architecture, religion and culture. There are lots of features to contemplate and learn about, so make sure not to rush your visit.

Another thing not to miss during your visit to La Mezquita is exploring its beautiful courtyard surrounded by orange trees, palm trees and cypresses.

34. See the most impressive bridge in Spain

One of the most emblematic bridges in Spain is Puente Nuevo in Ronda, Southern Spain.

This bridge connects the newer part of Ronda with the old town, and the views of the bridge are spectacular regardless of where you look at them.

There are different viewpoints, but the best views are from below. You can access the lower part of the bridge by following a small path from one of the sides of María de la Auxiladora square.

The best times to see this impressive bridge are at sunrise and sunset. The stunning views of the bridge and town, contrasting the sky’s colours, will make you fall in love with Ronda.

35. Taste Andalusian tapas

Are you a foodie like me? You’ll fall in love with tapas.

If you don’t know what a tapa is, it consists of a small hot or cold appetiser.

Some common tapas are tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette), gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), aceitunas (olives), and jamón (Iberian ham), but the options are endless.

Granada is the best Andalusian city to go on a tapas tour. Go from bar to bar, tasting delicious tapas without spending a fortune.

When you buy a drink, it comes with a tapa, so you aren’t paying for it but for the drink. The more drinks you have, the more tapas you eat.

But it’s important to clarify that you don’t need to have an alcoholic drink, like beer or wine, to receive a tapa. You can also order a soft drink or water.

36. See the Semana Santa processions

Holy Week, Semana Santa, in Spain, is another world, so it isn’t surprising to hear how impressed travellers are.

During the Semana Santa, religious processions occur in city centres’ main streets. These processions include scenes from the Bible, like the Last Dinner and Jesus’ Resurrection.

Men who belong to the religious brotherhoods are the ones who carry these heavy processions for hours, and then you’ll also see nazarenos that follow the processions.

Although Semana Santa is celebrated throughout the country, Andalusia is one of the best places to experience it, or maybe I’m just a bit biased because I’m from Andalusia.

Regardless of your beliefs, it’s a unique event to see once in your life!

37. Soak up the sun in Costa del Sol

If you’re a sun seeker, add Costa del Sol to your Spain bucket list.

Costa del Sol, translated as Coast of the Sun, is the area that comprises all the coastal towns alongside Malaga. Although it’s a popular summer destination, you can enjoy the sun almost year-round as it’s said that it’s sunny for approximately 320 days.

In the summer months, you’ll enjoy the buzzing and lively atmosphere at the beach and restaurants, whereas the winter offers a different experience that is perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

Some coastal towns you need to check out are Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Marbella.

38. Visit Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas, located on the border between Malaga and Cadiz, has become one of the most visited small towns in Southern Spain.

Its houses and bars built under cliffs, created by the local river, make this place unique and worth seeing.

However, that’s not all; Setenil is characterised by its whitewashed buildings and numerous viewpoints from which you can admire the contrast of houses and mountains.

If you love picturesque small towns and villages, Setenil de las Bodegas is a must-see! Plus you can combine this town with Ronda, another incredible white town with one of the most beautiful bridges in Spain.

39. Kitesurf in Tarifa

If you love kitesurfing or would love to learn how to kitesurf, there’s no better place than Tarifa, known as the kitesurfing mecca of Europe.

The wind conditions are perfect for kitesurfing all year round, but the laid-back vibes and lifestyle attract more than those who want to practice this watersport.

Tarifa is a charming town worth visiting. There are plenty of lovely restaurants where you can eat tapas and fresh fish, as well as non-water activities like yoga, mountain biking, etc.

40. Explore La Alcazaba de Malaga

When visiting Andalucia, you must spend some days in Malaga, my hometown. Most people come to Malaga for one day, but the city has much more to offer.

Regardless of how long you’re staying in Malaga, visiting La Alcazaba de Malaga is a bucket list experience. This beautiful Moorish fortress-palace is the most emblematic building in the city.

As you make your way to La Alcazaba, you can expect hills that give access to beautiful viewpoints across the building, charming courtyards with fountains and small gardens filled with scented jasmines and other flowers.

The views from this fortress-palace couldn’t be better – the sea, the port, Malaga’s bullring and the contrasting greens from Malaga’s Park.

41. Horseriding in Andalusia

Horseriding is a very common activity in Andalusia. If you’ve ever wanted to ride a horse or if you already know how to do it but want to experience it in Spain, add this one to your bucket list.

Cadiz is one of the best places to do horseriding, but you can find lessons and tours in other Andalusian cities as well.

One of the most unique experiences in Spain is horseriding on the beach, and you can do this on the Playa Mangueta coastline in Cadiz.

42. Wander one of the most luxurious ports in Spain

Puerto Banus is a synonym for glamour and exclusive shops where you can treat yourself to luxurious jewellery and clothes. 

Even if you aren’t after shopping, you can experience the atmosphere, see impressive yachts and cars or have a meal. 

Experiences in the Spanish Islands

43. Hike Mount Teide

Who said there aren’t volcanos in Spain? El Teide is a volcano in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands.

It’s the highest point in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world, so you definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to hike Mount Teide.

There are many different paths to get to the volcano’s summit, but the most challenging trail is the most rewarding.

It starts at Montaña Blanca, and it takes about 6 hours to reach the Altavista Refuge, the best accommodation in Spain for a view where you can stay overnight to rest and finish the climb early in the morning to watch the magical sunrise.

Hiking Mount Teide is one of the most unique things to do in Spain.

44. Spend a day at Siam Park

If you’re up for some adrenaline and love water parks, you need to visit Siam Park, the largest water park in Europe.

Siam Park is located in Tenerife, in the Costa Adeje, so you can’t leave without spending a day in this incredible water park.

One of its most popular and bravest attractions is the Tower of Power, where you plunge down a 28-metre drop and travel through an aquarium.

However, it’s also a great place to visit with family and children as there are attractions for all ages.

45. Try banana wine at Museo del plátano 

I didn’t know there was a museum all about bananas in Tenerife, but it does make sense since Tenerife and the rest of the Canary Islands are the biggest producers of bananas.

The museum is excellent for learning about bananas but also for trying the best bananas, banana liqueur and even wine. 

46. Explore the magical village of Masca

Masca is one of the most magical places in Tenerife. This village, located on the mountainside, seems to come straight from a postcard. It also resembles Machu Pichu in Peru. 

Wander this lovely town and stop for lunch at La Terraza restaurant for traditional Canarian food with a view. If you’re into hiking, there are also some scenic hiking trails.

It’s good to know that the road to Masca isn’t the easiest to drive, so booking an excursion to Masca is always a good idea. I’m glad a local guide took me there.

47. Experience the carnival 

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has the second-best carnival in the world. Undoubtedly, the atmosphere and impressive customs make it worth experiencing. Within Tenerife, you can also enjoy the carnival at Puerto de la Cruz.

Another great place to enjoy the carnival is Cadiz. Apart from the lively parades, they host chirigotas competitions. Chirigotas are sarcastic songs about political and current life issues. 

48. Admire Palma de Mallorca Cathedral

Palma Cathedral, also referred to as La Seu, is a must-see attraction in Spain.

This 14th-century Roman Catholic cathedral was built on the site of a former Moorish-era mosque, and the Catalan Gothic style highly influenced its architecture. Even the famous Gaudí had some input on this incredible building.

Seeing the cathedral from the outside is spectacular as it’s located in the heart of the city, and its surroundings are beautiful.

During the spring and summer months, you can visit the cathedral rooftop, where you’ll enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the city.

It’s a hundred per cent worth adding La Seu to your Spanish bucket list!

49. Party in Ibiza

If you’re looking for a girls’ getaway in Spain and love the nightlife, then Ibiza is perfect.

Ibiza is well-known for its luxurious beach clubs, amazing concerts and lively atmosphere, and if you’re after that, you’ll be happy to choose Ibiza as your next destination.

Although nightlife in Ibiza is on another level, it’s essential to know that Ibiza is much more than a party destination. There are beautiful natural places to explore and see.

Extra experience: Spend Christmas in Spain

Christmas in Spain is different from other European countries. If you’re up for a unique Christmas full of traditions and food, consider spending Christmas in Spain.

You’ll hear traditions from a specific region depending on where you stay. However, the whole country celebrates Christmas from the 22nd of December to the 6th of January and shares many of the traditions and events.

During this period, go to see beautiful nativity scenes, called belenes, (some of them are made of chocolate!), see the Christmas lights, indulge yourself in delicious Christmas food and sweets, and go to the Three Kings parade on the 5th of January.

One of my favourite places to see the Christmas lights is my hometown, Malaga. There’s a lovely Christmas light show with music that happens every year.

Frequently asked questions about Spain experiences

Wrap up of this Spain bucket list

There are plenty of unique experiences you can have in Spain – from going on scenic hiking trails and relaxing at paradisaic beaches to discovering hidden gems in Spain like Setenil de las Bodegas and other small towns.

Which cool things to do in Spain are you adding to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below.

Safe adventures!

Cristina xx

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• Best City Breaks in Spain
•  Top Tips for Travelling in Spain
• 35 Hidden Gems in Spain You Need to See
• Beautiful Landscapes in Spain
• The Most Romantic Places in Spain
• Incredible Reasons To Visit Andalucia
• Great Reasons to Visit the North of Spain
• What to Wear in Spain in Winter (Packing list included!)
• Does It Snow in Spain?

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