One of the most eccentric and colorful European countries, España is a true gem for any world traveler. Spain is full of diverse heritage and rich history and the birthplace of flamenco, tapas and sangria is justifiably one of Europe's most popular vacation destination. From the playful architecture of Gaudi to the majestic Moorish palace of the Alhambra, Spain is home to a stunning repertoire of architecture. And there's the scenery to match with the pretty vineyards of the Rioja region and the dramatic mountains of Basque Country. Start your trip in the capital of Madrid, then discover some of the major coastal cities are Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga and Bilbao and if time permits discover the islands of the Balearics which encompass Majorca, Ibiza and Minorca and then the Canary islands consisting of Tenerife, Las Palmas and Lanzarote. Food in Spain is an experience that has become a massive part of what makes the country unique. Make sure to try Paella, a rice dish that is flavored with saffron and other local spices and enjoy Tapas, a wide variety of appetizers or snacks that can be made up of hot or cold elements to be shared with friends and family.

Here is why Spain is the perfect choice for your next European Adventure

The Capital - Madrid

Start your journey in Madrid, the storybook capital with many buildings having a confectionary, castle-like look to them, even City Hall is astounding, with its white pinnacles and neo-Gothic features. The main square in Madrid is also the city’s most attractive. The Plaza Mayor is a rectangular-shaped square and is surrounded by historical buildings. The Prado Museum This is one of the most important art galleries in the world with a collection of European art from the 12th to the 19th Century and specifically Spanish art. The building itself dates back to 1785 when it was designed on the orders of Charles III. This art museum has around 7,600 paintings, 1,000 sculptures and over 13,000 drawings, prints, historic documents and other works of art.

Barcelona

Barcelona is known for its exceptional soccer and the brilliant architecture of Antoni Gaudi. The popular tree-lined pedestrian central promenade of Las Ramblas is the heartbeat of this rich in history, yet modern and sophisticated Mediterranean beach town. Paella and pintxos bars, exceptional seafood, standout local wines, a world-class arts scene, and pulsating nightlife make Barcelona world famous. The Basílica de la Sagrada Família has undoubtedly become the symbol of Barcelona. It is essentially a huge church, designed by the notorious Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Unfortunately, he passed away before he could see his greatest masterpiece complete.

Seville

Famous for flamenco dancing, tapas and Moorish architecture, southern Spain’s sunny Seville will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Its old town boasts an impressive three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Alcazar of Seville, the Gothic Seville Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies. The Alcazar Palace was built initially in the 1300s by Moorish Muslim Kings and has been expanded and reconstructed many times over the centuries. Today, it is still used as a royal palace.

Granada

Granada was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492. The Alhambra (translated from Arabic means Red Castle) was built in 1238 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It overlooks the city from the top of a hill and is an extensive series of beautiful palaces and gardens. It has been described as a fortress, a palace and a city within a city and its architecture is simply dazzling. In the centre of the Alhambra is the immensely large Palace of Charles V, a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Other spots to visit include the Palace of the Generalife, the Royal Chapel of Granada and the lookout Mirador de San Nicolas.

Cordoba

Yet another gem of Andalusia, Cordoba is a truly charming city. Its main attraction is the Mezquita (Mosque of Cordoba) with its serene and spacious interior. It is one of the world's greatest works of Islamic architecture built in a time when Muslims, Jews and Christians all lived side by side and enriched Cordoba with diverse cultures. It was originally a church but in 784 AD, it was developed to a greater extent and became a mosque. Don't forget to explore the historic center of Cordoba or the Jewish Quarter and really feel the Spanish city's past and cultural heritage.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian, in the northern Basque Country, known for its sandy beaches and world-famous food scene. Take the cobbled stoned streets down to the popular La Concha Beach and have a dip in the crystal clear water or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants that line the promenade. Visit the old town of Parte Vieja and be sure to visit the pintxo bars for the small snack food made with regional produce that San Sebastian’s culinary scene is known for. Walk to the top of Monte Urgull that was once used as a military fortress in the 12th century and soak up panoramic views of this Spanish gem.

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral soars above the city centre and is a splendid mixture of spires and sculptures. It was built gradually over several centuries and is a mix of an original Romanesque structure constructed between 1075 and 1211 and later Gothic and Baroque elements. The most important part of the church is the Portico de la Gloria which features 200 outstanding Romanesque sculptures.

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao one of modern architecture's most iconic buildings to be experienced on a trip to Spain. There is no doubt the Guggenheim Museum is one of modern architecture's most outstanding buildings. Designed by Fran Gehry, this shining edifice, made of titanium, cannot be missed with its riverside location. The gleaming titanium tiles that sheathe most of the building are said to have been inspired by the architect’s childhood fascination with fish

The Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands, off the south-east coast of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea comprise of Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera plus a number of minor islands. Mallorca is the largest and best-known island. The capital, Palma de Mallorca has historical and cultural attractions. The inland portion of Mallorca is truly scenic and in parts, is very mountainous. The Canary Islands are located 62 miles west of the North African coast opposite Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean and offer a subtropical climate with hot summers and warm winters. The main islands are Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote. and Fuerteventura.

The Flamenco

Spain is the birthplace of the Flamenco. This combination of Latin, Gipsy and Jewish influences and traditions is more than music; it is a folk art involving singing, dance and guitar and rhythm accompaniment. It originated in Andalusia many centuries ago. There are daily flamenco shows in Madrid, Barcelona and Andalusian cities such as Seville, Granada, Cordoba and Malaga and there are flamenco festivals which take place annually in Barcelona in July and August, Madrid in June, Cordoba in July and Granada in June & July.

Running of the Bulls

Bullfighting is another tradition in Spain. It can be bloody and violent. For the most part, the bullfighting season in Spain runs from April to September, in most major cities usually on Sundays. Spanish tradition holds that bull-running began in northeastern Spain in the early 14th century. The Pamplona Running of the Bulls, which takes place during the San Fermin festival, is by far the most famous bull run in Spain.

Exquisite Cuisine and Wine

Spain offers some of the finest cuisine and world famous wines. One of its best-known dishes is paella, a seafood and rice combination that originated along the Mediterranean Sea. You will also find chorizo sausage links dangling behind the counters of most bars, restaurants and shops. The tortilla española is another common entree consisting of fried eggs, diced onions, salt and olive oil. Sample tapas while touring Spain. Tapas are essentially appetizers with ingredients such as bread, cheese, olives, meat and vegetables and can be eaten as a quick snack or as an entire meal. Spain has also earned a reputation as one of the better producers of wines, especially red wines.