Spain

The Kingdom of Spain is the larger of the two countries that make up the Iberian Peninsula—the other is Portugal—located in southwestern Europe. To the west (and, in Galicia, south), it borders Portugal. To the south, it borders Gibraltar and, through its cities in North Africa (Ceuta and Melilla), Morocco. To the northeast, along the Pyrenees mountain range, it borders France and the tiny principality of Andorra. It also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean and a number of uninhabited islands on the Mediterranean side of the strait of Gibraltar, known as Plazas de soberanía, such as the Chafarine islands, the "rocks" (peñones) of Vélez and Alhucemas, and the tiny Isla Perejil (disputed). In the Northeast along the Pyrenees, a small exclave town called Llívia in Catalonia is surrounded by French territory.

In the 8th century, nearly all the Iberian Peninsula, which had been under Visigothic rule, was quickly conquered (from 711), by Muslims (the Moors), who had crossed over from North Africa. Visigothic Spain was the last of a series of Christian countries conquered in a great westward charge from the Middle East and across North Africa by the religiously inspired armies of the Umayyad Empire. Indeed this onslaught continued northwards until it was decisively defeated in central France at the Battle of Tours in 732. Astonishingly the invasion started off as an invitation from a Visgothic faction within Spain for support. But instead of returning to Africa after successfully assisting their allies, the Berber army turned on its hosts and conquered the Visigothic capital of Toledo. Only three small counties in the north of Spain managed to cling to their independence: Asturias, Navarra and Aragon, which eventually became kingdoms.

Life in Muslim Spain was very different from life in contemporary Christian Spain. Arabic was the official language of government, commerce and scholarship in Muslim controlled areas of Spain, and the majority of the population, including Christians and Jews, now spoke it, though many were bilingual. By the end of the 10th century the majority of the population had been converted to Islam. However, as the 11th century drew to a close most of the north and center of Spain was back under Christian control. The re-conquest from the Muslims is one of the most significant events in Spanish history since the fall of the Roman Empire. Arabic quickly lost its place in southern Spain's everyday life, and was replaced by Castilian. In the south the process of conversion was reversed from the 13th century: the majority Muslim population was gradually converted to Roman Catholicism. The mosques and synagogues were converted into churches.

The 20th century initially brought little peace; Spain made a late and minor entry into the scramble for Africa, with the colonization of Western Sahara, Spanish Morocco and Equatorial Guinea. A military disaster in Morocco in 1921 contributed to discrediting the monarch and worsened political instability. A period of dictatorial rule (1923 - 1931) ended with the establishment of the Second Spanish Republic. The Republic offered political autonomy to the Basque Country, Catalonia and Galicia (where the autonomy did not have any effect due to the civil war) and gave voting rights to women.

However, in July 1936, against a backdrop of increasing political polarization, anti-clericalism and pressure from all sides, coupled with growing and unchecked political violence, the Republic was faced with an attempted military coup d'etat led by right-wing army generals. Although the coup initially failed, the ensuing Spanish Civil War ended in 1939 with the victory of the nationalist forces led by the ruthlessly efficient and unemotional General Francisco Franco and supported by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. The Republican side received tepid support from European democracies, which left the Soviet Union and idealist voluntary International Brigades as the only supporters of the legitimate democratic Republican rule. The Spanish Civil War has been called the first battle of the Second World War.

After the civil war, General Francisco Franco ruled a nation exhausted politically and economically. During the Second World War, Franco, under extreme pressure (Hitler had brought his army to the border of Spain after invading France), opted to remain neutral arguing that Spain could not afford a new war, but, as a concession to his civil war backer, authorized volunteers to go to the Russian front to fight the Soviet Union in an anti-Communist crusade in what came to be known as the Blue Division. The resentment of Franco's brutality towards the more modern pro-Republican regions of Catalonia and the Basque country, whose distinctive languages and identity he suppressed during his long reign, continues to fuel strong separatist movements to this day.

Area: 504,782 sq.km

Population: 44,108,530

Language: Spanish

Religion: 80% to 94% self-identify as Catholics, whereas around 6% to 13% identify with either other religions or none at all.

Currency: Euro

Government: Parliamentary Monarchy

Madrid

Barcelona

Cordoba

Sevilla

Granada

Málaga

Huelva

Cádiz

Almería

Andalusia

Santiago de Compostela

Salamanca

Toledo

Segovia

Mallorca

Ibiza (Balearic Islands)

Canary Islands

Valencia

Catalonia

Barcelona is one of the nicest cities to visit. Its museums, theaters, art galleries and nightlife are of an impressive high standard. Besides that, this art and design centre has a lot of interesting sights to offer to its visitors. The best place to watch people go by, to stroll or simply relax, is 'Las Ramblas', a pedestrian street with dozens of outdoor cafes. Here, you’ll find flower-stands, book kiosks and small market stalls where they sell birds and small animals. You’ll also find an endlessly fascinating flowing receptacle of pageant-jugglers, singers, dancers, puppeteers, sidewalk artists, living statues and assorted oddballs on parade. Nearby is 'Plaça Real', with plenty of bars and restaurants, and 'Palau Guell', built by the Catalan architectural genius Antoni Gaudí in his undulating art-nouveau style. While in Las Ramblas and Placa Real, be very aware of pickpockets, too.

After having seen these sights, stroll the narrow winding streets of the 'Barri Gotic', the medieval Gothic quarter full of interesting tapas bars and cafes. Check out Picasso’s old hangout, 'Els Quatre Gats', which has been renovated without losing its bohemian charm. Or head for the old Barceloneta section on the waterfront. This working-class area, which was always slightly rundown and scruffy-looking, is now packed with paella restaurants. The new beach area, which runs from Barceloneta to the Olympic village, is much cleaner than the old beach area. Although some people believe that it has been cleaned up considerably, it might be a wise idea to stay out of the water. Fortunately, the beach itself is already a feast for the eyes (and ears), with its huge and roaring waves.

Catalans are known for their independent spirit and their sense of humor. Salvador Dali was a Catalan (and unfortunately for Catalans, he was also a Fascist and supporter of General Franco's regime) and his bizarre sense of humor is just one example of the region’s endearing weirdness. Spring is the best time to visit Barcelona; you can expect a temperature of round and about 20 degrees. During summer, it can get very hot and humid (about 30 degrees) and crowded (because of the tourists, cultural events taking place in September). Barcelona will be as expensive as you want it to be. Attention: Barcelona is pretty rich and so prices are much higher than somewhere else in Spain. Still, restaurants are relatively cheap (at lunch time you can find a two course meal and desert for 7-9€) and for a hotel, three meals and a night out, count on some 145 Euro for two persons.

Barcelona highlights:

1.Arquitecture: if you love architecture, Barcelona is the city indeed.

Roman period: Roman walls, 4 remaining columns of the Temple at Centre excursionista, Museu d´historia de la ciutat (walk underground through the roman past).

Gothic period: Santa Maria del Mar (best gothic church), Plaça del Rei, Saló del Tinell, Drassanes, Catedral, Santa Maria del Pi, Llotja de Barcelona, Hospital de la Santa Creu, streets within barrio gotic (gothic ward).

Pre-modernist and Modernist period: Gaudí main works: Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Parc Güell, Palau Güell, Casa Vicens. Other modernist architects masterpieces: Palau de la Musica Catalana, Hospital de Sant Pau, Casa Ametller, Casa de les Punxes, Arc de Triompf i Parc de la Ciutadella, Plaça Reial, Passeig de Gracia. Some of those were included in the World Heritage list.

Modern Period: Pabelló d´Alemanya (German Pabilion 28 universal expo, a masterpiece of the modern arquitecture designed by Mies Van der Rohe), Pabelló de la republica (GATPAC), Escola Tecnica Superior d´Arquitectura (Coderech), Macba (museum art contemporani designed by Richard Meyer), Anella Olimpica (olimpic area, Isozaki, Correa, Calatrava...), Torre Agbar (the new symbol in town by Jean Nouvel), Mercat de Santa Caterina (Miralles-Tagliube), Tibidabo´s communication tower (Norman Foster), Forum´s Convention Center (Herzog & de Meuron).

2.-Art and museums:

Museu Nacional d´Art de Catalunya (MNAC) with the best romantic paintings in the world. This museum preserves the wall frescos of a great part of the romantic churches in Pirineos.

Museu Picasso: Located in a medieval palace, inside you will a good collection of Picasso early paintings.

Fundació Miró: Located in a good modern building from Sert, you’ll find a wide sample of Joan Moró works.

Others: Centre d´art Santa Monica, Fundació Tapies, Centre de Cultura Contemporanea.

3.-Best walks

Barcelona’s seashore walk: Departing from the Forum of las Culturas area, walk along Passeig Maritim, cross the Vila Olimpica, continue

to la Barceloneta, follow el moll de la Fusta to Colon monument. Best moment at sunrise or at sunset. (3-4 km)

Las Ramblas: From Plaça Catalunya, walk down to Colon, sit at some café and just look the people. (500 m)

Barri Gotic: Just keep your maps and guidebooks away, and lose yourself within the lovely old streets of el barri gothic. Finish your walk taking a beer at la Plaça Reial (one of the nicest). (3-5-8 km, walk as long as you can)

El Raval: Submerge yourself in our little Karachi, just on the opposite side of las Ramblas. Start at el Mercat de la Boqueria (traditional market), and lose yourself on the decadente streets of el raval, try some shawarma, or some dhal in any Panjabi restaurant, and check how cosmopolitan is Barcelona (not so London or Amsterdam...but getting close). Beware of pick pocketing.

Passeig de Gracia to Gracia: From Plaça Catalunya walk up Passeig de Gracia (the most elegant street in town with the most expensive shops) to the bohemian neighborhood of Gracia. Just take a walk into the neighborhood and take a beer in any plaça. (Plaça Rius i Taulet, Plaça Diamant...)

4.-Best city views

From Montjuich: Just go up to Palau Nacional (MNaC) at Montjuich Mountain and enjoy the sunset over the city. If you are lucky (try on weekends), after the sunset you’ll see the Magic Fountain Show.

From Tibidabo: The best views of Barcelona are from el Tibidabo. An old fashioned and decadent Atraction parc (but one of the top 5 in the world according to Lonely Planet), on the top of el Tibidabo. Yes that´s our Corcovado...

From el Parc Güell: If you haven’t had enough time to go to Tibidabo, you can get a great views too, from Parc güell.
5.-Nightlife

Plaça Reial area: That´s my favorite. Take some beers at el Glaciar or el Sidecar, after that try at el Club 13 (until 03.00), after that head to el Jamboree if you like hip hop, or el Karma if you prefer independent pop-rock (until 06.00).

Poblenou area: Take some beers at l´Ovella, and after that try at Razzmatazz (one of the best clubs in town). In this hall were playing all the bands in their early tours (Chemical Brs, Massive Attack, Blur, Oasis, Coldplay)

Vila Olimpica area: For nice people, catalans say "ambiente algo mas pijo". Try at Baja club or Catwalk.

Zona Alta area: Take your first beers at La Borsa (imported beers from worldwide), after that go to some disco or club in the area. The top is Luz de Gas, there you´ll find people up to 50 y/old men trying to met 20y/old girls, and 40 y/old women trying same with 20 y/old boys. If you want to meet rich girls, that´s the place to be. For the nicest people. "Ambiente muy pijo". For gay and lesbian: Try at El coño de mi prima (Eixample) or at Las Torres de Avila (Poble espanyol)

6.-Beaches: From Forum to Barceloneta, they all are fine, but always crowded in summer.

Barcelona also offers a wide list of daytrips as:

Montserrat: Scenic mountain, with surrealistic rock formations. A monastery located at the top offers unforgettable views and contains the sacred image of la "Verge de Montserrat" (Montserrat Virgin, who is black). Great trekking possibilities. Mythic place for catalans. 40 km west from Barcelona.

Girona: The small Barcelona with a Firenzian touch. Colorful houses over Onyar river, impressive gothic churches rising over the urban landscape. The best preserved arab baths in Spain (Banys arabs). Unforgettable walk over the history through the narrow streets of the old medieval Jewish ward (el Call Jueu). 100 km north from Barcelona (one hour by train).

Sitges: Gay world´s capital. Sitges was time ago a typical peaceful fishing town. Now it is one of the most expensive towns to live in Spain, it has a lively atmosphere (especially in summer) and great nightlife. Anyway Sitges still preserves its charm. In Sitges takes place one of the best carnivals in Spain. In summer you´ll find a beach full of males, no girls within, lets swim? 40 km south from Barcelona (30 mins by train).

Tarragona: The ancient Tarraco, Hispania Roman capital. It preserves some impressive roman works like the amphitheatre, the 10 m high walls, some circus segments, and the aqueduct (2nd largest and well preserved in Spain). It also has a nice gothic cathedral, and a medieval center. Their Roman past did of Tarraco one of the World Heritage cities. 100 km south of Barcelona (1 h,20m by train).

Madrid is a lively city - nobody is really sure when the Madrileños sleep. It may be the afternoon siesta that gives them the endurance to keep things going well into the night. Try it. It is the best city of Spain.

San Nicolas de los Servitas (plan several hours for this section). Then go shopping at Calle Serrano and the Gran Via. Visit the Victory Arch, the Palacio Real (the royal palace with its own art treasures and crown jewels) and the Plaza de las Cibeles and Puerta del Sol (the last two are major intersections with fountains, monuments and shops). On Sunday, you must visit the Rastro Flea Market, located in La Latina, there you will find the Madrileño's real essence!

Madrid is a museum-goer's paradise. Including the Royal Palace, it has 15 important museums, dozens of galleries and several private collections. See the section on the art walk for more details about the three famous museums in Madrid: the Prado, the Thyssen Bornemisza and the Reina Sofia museum. You might end up spending more than one day just seeing museums. Actually, days could be spent in the halls of the Prado alone.

It's actually quite possible to get tired of all these museums in Madrid; if this happens sit down at a terraza (outdoor cafe) and watch the world go by or visit one of the many beautiful parks and lakes in the city. One of the nicest parks we've seen anywhere is Retiro Park near the Prado. Note the Victorian greenhouse and the Crystal Palace with its small lake and swans lazily swimming about. You can rent a rowboat to get in the relaxed festive mood that suffuses the park. For a panoramic view of Madrid take the elevator to the bar on the 26th floor of the Edificio de Espana which faces the Plaza de Espana.

Madrid is a city that never seems to close down, bars and restaurants are open very late and the city's Santa Ana district never closes down. Dinner doesn't usually begin until after 10 pm and after that revelers head off to their favorite disco show, jazz club or late-night cafe to party until dawn. For a concentrated area of late-night activity head to Huertas Street after midnight and you're sure to find something to match your tastes. Hemingway fans may want to check out the Museo Chicote bar described in many of his Spanish Civil War stories (and a very trendy spot). Those who love traditional performing arts will want to go to the Teatro Real for Spanish light opera known as zarzuela. You can also find good flamenco shows in several nightclubs including Cafe Chinitas.

If you're in Madrid during the second half of May be sure to join Madrileños in celebrating the Feria de San Isidro which has music, operas, concerts, bullfighting, dancing and all-night entertainment. During our last trip, we attended a concert devoted to American bluegrass music held in the Plaza Mayor. And mid August is when the city celebrates the Verbena de la Paloma. Outside of Madrid day trips can be made to Avila, El Escorial, Guadalajara, Segovia and Toledo.

Seville is the southern-most of the three biggest Andalusian cities.

Sevilla represents all that is Andalucian: flamenco, the horses, toros... Once a port this is now one of the most important cultural centers of Spain.

It is connected to Madrid by an excellent high speed train link (AVE) as well as by its own airport and a good road system.

The 1992 World Expo has left the city with a good infrastructure while preserving the beautiful buildings and streets and quiet alleys of the old town.

Seville was the choice of the first royal wedding of the current generation of Spanish royal family.

Málaga's coastline forms part of the Costa del Sol, a special part of the Mediterranean. The climate is temperate, and the mean temperature is 2200 C - from 16 to 19000 in winter. This is due to the mountains that protect the coast from cold north winds. Málaga was first a Phoenician colony and later came under the control of the Greeks, Carthaginians, Visigoths, Arabs and Christians.

Today it is a maritime city rich in culture, some of whose remains are on view at the Archeological Museum. The friendly people and wonderful climate also encourage a stroll through the old walls and the remains of the Muslim palaces of the Alcazaba fortress; through its gardens next to the sea - they are adorned with palm and orange trees and jacaranda - and on to discover the house where Picasso was born, there on the wide, lively Plaza de la Merced. Or take in the view of the city from the top of the Gibralfaro Castle.

Málaga is also the name of the province in Andalucia which includes not just the city of Málaga but much fine mountain and coastal scenery and towns like Antequera and Ronda

Cordoba was the capital of al-Andalus, the highly civilized Arab state in southern Spain. During those days the city was dubbed the "Athens of the West". The most important sight of Cordoba is without doubt the Mezquita; a mosque converted into a cathedral in a rather brutal way. When Emperor Charles the V visited Cordoba and saw how the old mosque, famous around the world, had been made into a cathedral he is supposed to have scolded the architects. But he did not much more about it!

A stroll around the Jewish quarter with its maze like streets and nice patio's is also absolutely worth your while.

Situated in the south of the La Coruna province in Galicia, Northwest Spain is the monumental town of Santiago de Compostella. The town is actually the capital of the Galicia region and is recognized through legend as the final resting-place of the Apostle James - the first of the Twelve Apostles to suffer martyrdom at the hands of Herod. For centuries, the town has been the centre of European pilgrimage and is an awe-inspiring place in which to go on holidays.

Not surprisingly, given its history, Santiago de Compostela is the most popular tourist destination in Northwest Spain. People travel from all over the world to pay homage to the Apostle James, and to view the historic sites in honor of the Saint. But Santiago de Compostela is not just about history - the city is home to one of the most famous universities in Europe, so ensuring that the streets of Santiago de Compostela are humming with the culture of youth.

Santiago de Compostella is - of course - the city of pilgrims. Since the ninth century they have been coming from all over Europe to touch the relics of St James. He was the first Christian martyr and the patron saint of Spain. Legend has it that his disciples brought his remains to Santiago to be buried. After Jerusalem and Rome, Santiago de Compostella is the third most holy city in Christendom.

Santiago's population is around 90,000 and most locals live in the outer reaches of town, suburbs and apartments which could be in any European town. The regional assembly is also in this area - Santiago's the capital of Galicia, the semi-autonomous province on the Atlantic seaboard of North Western Spain. The city is the home of the more than 500 years old University of Santiago de Compostella.

The bit of town worth seeing, the old quarter, is at the top of the hill. A medieval maze of narrow cobbled streets, gaping suddenly into large prazas (galego - the Galician tongue - for the Spanish plaza), it is beautiful and atmospheric. The Medieval city is a national monument and most of it can only be entered by foot. The main attraction of Santiago de Compostella is the cathedral. This has been the terminating point of the pilgrim's route for about eight hundred years now and it is still a sight to see today. The impressive Baroque facade at the Plaza de Obradoiro will take your breath away, as will the contrastingly sober and serene interior. With the cathedral you will find other interesting historic buildings like the treasury, the palace of Archbishop Gelmirez, cloisters, and an archaeological museum.

And if you have seen the cathedral, there are still dozens of monasteries and churches left to visit. There is the large Benedictine San Martín, San Francisco (reputedly founded by Saint Francis himself while visiting Santiago),

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, but one of the least visited by tourists. This is mainly due to it being more of a working city. However, during the summer, Valencia is known for its beach during the day and the clubs and bars at night. One key thing to remember though if you want to partake in the night life is that it doesn't start until really late. If you get there too early (before about 1AM) you will think that Valencia has the worst night life ever, as you will be the only one there.

As for the dining experience in Valencia, a visitor must be sure to try the most famous Spanish dish, Paella. The Valencia regions are the home of the Paella. Paella is a rice dish that does not compare to anything else, but if one must describe it in comparison to something it would be a stir fry similar to fried rice with a wide variety of seafood, chicken, rabbit and vegetables. Es deliciosa!

Another absolutely amazing culturally rich experience of the Valenica Region is Las Fallas, "the fires." Las Fallas is a 5-day celebration of St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. This is an absolutely fascinating and overwhelming experience. You have constant firecrackers, flowers, parties, crowded street and much much more!

If you are in town on the last day of the celebration, you can join in on the many block parties throughout the city. All the neighborhood’s cooks make their special paella, and don't be surprised if they ask you to "prueba," to try, their dish and comment on whose is the best. Be careful if you take the challenge, Valencianos take pride in their paella.

During Las Fallas the city glows with lighted streets and colorful ninots around every corner. The ninots, paper mache statues made of wood, cardboard, and plaster, are as tall as buildings. One way to grasp the local humor is to read (or have a Valenciano translate for you) the satirical inscriptions on the ninots. At the end of the festival, these statues are burned down at midnight in what is called "la Crema." As the beautiful statues are lit ablaze, the massive crowd stares in awe. Be careful you don't get singed with falling debris. While most of the statues go up in flames, the ones chosen as the very best in both the open and children's sections are reprieved and kept in the excellent Fallas museum.

Anyone in search of the Holy Grail need not look any further than the Catedral de Valencia located on Plaza de la Renia, near the city center. Visitors can view the infamous chalice encased within the cathedral's gothic structure.

If you are taking a day trip to the cathedral, make a stop at the Mercado Central nearby. One of the oldest in Europe, The mercado is 25,000 square feet of shopping heaven. You can find everything from Jamon Serrano (cured ham) to live eels.

The creation of La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias with its magical 21st century architecture is intended to help the city attract tourists outside of fallas time in March.

Though not the capital of the island, Ibiza Town is where it all happens. In many aspects it’s the center of the island, its focal point. It’s here that you’ll find most clubs, bars Cafes and restaurants. The city itself is beautifully located on top of a small hill. Surrounded by a couple of fortresses, the stronghold still proudly dominates the bay and the harbor at her feet. There are three main area’s: The harbor and the Sa Peña quarter, the old city within the walls and the new city. All three have their own distinct and unique character.

Most people arriving with package holidays are parked in huge apartment complexes in San Antonio Abad or other villages on the island - that means that the skyline of Ibiza Town is to much damaged by the cheap white and ugly flat like hotels that have already ruined by most of the ones beautiful coasts of Spain. In Ibiza Town you find small pensions and rented apartments instead.

It's pretty easy to find your way around town. From the Ferry Terminal the old streets of the Sa Pena quarter bring you up to the walled old city D'Alt Vila Within the walls there’re still quite a number of medieval buildings, of which the tower of the Cathedral is by far the most impressive. Here you’ll also find the more classy restaurants, hotels and apartments. For cheaper options you have to go down to the harbour or to one of the suburbs or other villages on the island. Just south from Ibiza Town are the suburbs of Figueretas and Playa d'en Bossa. Both have beaches, bars and restaurants.

Zaragozais the capital of Aragon. It is a city full of custom and culture. Only small numbers of non-Spanish find their way to this large and lively city between Madrid and Barcelona. Three quarters of the million people population of Aragon are living in Zaragoza. Besides some outstanding historic sights and its closeness to the central Pyrenees, there are excellent restaurants serving Aragonese food.

Spanish cuisine consists of a great variety of dishes which stem from differences in geography, culture and climate. It is heavily influenced by seafood available from the waters that surround the country, and reflects the country's deep Mediterranean roots. Spain's extensive history with many cultural influences has led to a unique cuisine with literally thousands of recipes and flavors. This international diversity in cuisine is perhaps most evident in the city of Barcelona, where one might find a shop selling ready-made falafel, an Asian food restaurant, and a tapas bar, all located close to one another.

A significant portion of Spanish cuisine derives from the Jewish and Moorish traditions. The Moors were a strong influence in Spain for many centuries and some of their food is still eaten in Spain today. However, pork is popular and for centuries eating pork was also a statement of ethnicity limpieza de sangre, because it was not eaten by Jews or Muslims. Several native foods of the Americas were introduced in Europe through Spain, and a modern Spanish cook couldn't do without potatoes, tomatoes, peppers or beans.

These are some of the primary influences that have differentiated Spanish cuisine from Mediterranean cuisine, of which Spanish cuisine shares many techniques and food items.

The essential ingredient for a real Spanish Cuisine is olive oil; 50% of the global production of olives is in Spain.

Daily meals eaten by the Spanish in many areas of the country are still very often made traditionally by hand, from fresh ingredients bought daily from the local market. This practice is more common in the rural areas and less common in the large urban areas like Madrid, where supermarkets are beginning to displace the open air markets. However, even in Madrid food can be bought from the local shops, bread from the panadería, meat from the carnicería, etc.

Traditional Spanish cooking also often revolves around outdoor cooking over a fire, perhaps in a special clay or brick oven.
One popular custom when going out is to be served tapas with your drink (sherry, wine, beer, etc.) In some places, like Granada, tapas are given for free with your drink and have become very famous for that reason. It should be noted that almost every tapas bar serves something edible when a drink is ordered, without charge.

Another traditional favorite is the churro with a mug of thick hot chocolate to dip the churro in. Churrerías, or stores that serve churros, are quite common. Specifically the Chocolatería de San Ginés in Madrid is very famous as a place to stop and have some chocolate with churros, often late into the night (even dawn) after being out on the town. Often traditional Spanish singers will entertain the guests.

Typical Spanish foods also include

Paella (saffron rice)

Fabada Asturiana (bean stew)

Mariscos (shellfish)

Gazpacho (cold soup)

Lechazo asado (roasted milk-fed lamb)

Chuletillas (grilled chops of milk-fed lamb)

Tortilla de patatas or tortilla española (egg omelets with potatoes)

Chorizo (spicy sausage)

Jamón serrano (cured ham)

Cocido (a chickpea and meat stew of sorts)

Arroz a la Cubana

Turrón, a dessert with almonds and honey, typical of Christmas

Tortas de Aceite from Seville, a sweet Olive Oil pastry

Sobrassada

Spanish cuisine is often seen in terms of an idealized Mediterranean diet although, as occurs in every country, it doesn't conform entirely to such simple parameters. The actual consumption of meats is more than the accepted optimum, while the consumption of fish does not reach the expected optimum, even in coastal areas. The use of olive oil is common; Spanish cuisine is perhaps closer today to the idealized Mediterranean diet than before the start of the 20th century, when the use of animal fats (especially lard) was very common. The quantity of fruits and vegetables consumed, even though more than in non-Mediterranean cuisines, doesn't approach the recommended five servings per day.

As is true in many countries, the cuisines of Spain differ widely from one region to another, even though they all share certain common characteristics, among which are:

The use of olive oil as a cooking fat, as well as raw, like in fritters.
. The use of sofrito to start the preparation of many dishes.

The use of garlic and onions as major seasonings.

The custom of drinking wine during meals.

Serving bread with the vast majority of meals.

Consumption of salads, especially in the summer.

The consumption of a piece of fruit or a dairy product as dessert. Such desserts as tarts and cakes are typically reserved for special occasions.

Among the multitude of recipes that make up the varied cuisines of Spain, a few can be considered common to all or almost all of Spain's regions, even though some of them have an origin known and associated with specific places. Examples include the potato omelet ("tortilla de patata"), gazpacho, paella, stews, migas, sausages (such as embutidos, chorizo, and morcilla), jamón serrano, and cheeses. There are also many dishes based on beans (chickpeas, lentils, green beans); soups, with many regional variations; and bread, that has numerous forms, with distinct varieties in each region. The regional variations are less pronounced in Spanish desserts and cakes: flan, custard, rice pudding, torrijas, churros, and madeleines are some of the most representative examples.

Day 1 Arrive in Barcelona, sleep Barcelona

Day 2 Barcelona, sleep Barcelona

Day 3 Fly or take night train to Sevilla, sleep Sevilla

Day 4 Sevilla, sleep Sevilla

Day 5 To Arcos via Andalucía's Route of White Hill Towns, sleep Arcos

Day 6 To Tarifa, sleep Tarifa

Day 7 Tarifa (day trip to Morocco), sleep Tarifa

Day 8 To Nerja via Gibraltar & Costa del Sol, sleep Nerja

Day 9 To Granada, sleep Granada

Day 10 Granada, sleep Granada

Day 11 To Toledo via Consuegra, sleep Toledo

Day 12 Toledo, sleep Toledo

Day 13 To Madrid via El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen, sleep Madrid

Day 14 Madrid, sleep Madrid

Day 15 To Salamanca via Segovia & Ávila, sleep Salamanca

Day 16 Salamanca, sleep Salamanca

Day 17 To Santiago, sleep Santiago

Day 18 Santiago, sleep Santiago

Day 19 To Cantabria, sleep Cantabria (Santillana or Comillas)

Day 20 To San Sebastián via Bilbao, sleep San Sebastián

Day 21 San Sebastián, sleep San Sebastián

Day 22 Fly home

This itinerary is designed to be done by car except for the long boring trip from Barcelona to Sevilla, which is best done by a one-hour flight or night train. Spain’s long distances make the option of flying or rail for at least a portion of the trip worth considering.

The route can also be done by public transportation (5-6 bus days and 6-7 train days) with a few modifications: From Barcelona, fly or take the night train to Granada; bus along Costa del Sol to Tarifa (day-trip to Morocco); bus to Arcos and Sevilla; and then take the AVE high-speed train to Madrid. Visit Toledo, Segovia, and El Escorial as side-trips from Madrid. Take the train to Salamanca and Santiago and finish in San Sebastián. Consider skipping Cantabria, which is a little tricky by public transportation and adding the extra days to Barcelona or Madrid area.

Both plans assume you’ll fly open-jaw into Barcelona and out of San Sebastián. If you’re returning to Madrid from San Sebastián, it’s an eight-hour train ride (night train possible) or one-hour flight. Or cross into France and take the six-hour TGV train to Paris for more adventures!

TWO WEEK OPTIONS: You can end the three-week route (described above) a week early by returning to Madrid from Salamanca and saving north Spain for another trip. Another two-week possibility: Start in Barcelona (stay 2 days); fly or take overnight train to Madrid (stay 5 days total, with 2 days in Madrid and 3 for side-trips to Toledo, El Escorial, and Segovia or Àvila); Granada (2 days); Nerja (1 day); both Rhonda and Arcos for drivers or just Ronda for train-ers (2 days), and Sevilla (2 days), flying home from Madrid.

Priority of Iberian Sightseeing Stops

3 days: Madrid and Toledo

6 days: Sevilla, Granada

10 days: Barcelona, Andalucía (White Hill Towns)

13 days: Costa del Sol, Morocco

15 days: Salamanca, Segovia

17 days: Santiago de Compostela

21 days: Basque Region (San Sebastián & Bilbao), Cantabria (northern Spain)

Spain is more than bullfights, flamenco dancers and crowded beaches. It's a spectacular and diverse country, the north resembling the rolling, green hills of Ireland and the south giving you a taste of Moroccan landscapes and architecture. Its tremendous history is reflected in its prehistoric cave paintings, Moorish palaces, crumbling castles, Roman ruins, Gothic and Renaissance cathedrals as well as some very unique modern architecture. The uniqueness of Spain lies in the separate kingdoms which made up the original Spanish nation. These regions remain diverse in their language, culture, cuisine and art. These regions include: Andalucía, Aragon, Asturias, Basque Country, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Cantabria, Castilla La Mancha, Castilla León, Catalonia, Extremadura, Galicia, La Rioja, Madrid, Murcia, Navarra and Valencia. Areas of interest are not limited to each region, here are some highlights:

Beaches - Excellent and quiet beaches can be found near Malaga, Huelva and Almería in the south as well as near the coasts of La Manga, Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and Euskadi. If you do enjoy extremely developed resort towns, there are plenty of crowded beaches on the Costa de la Luz and the Costa del Sol. Interesting is the harbour of Almerimar with cozy bars, just south of El Ejido (Almeria).

Architecture - Very unique architecture can be found in Córdoba, Salamanca, Granada, Toledo, Madrid... The visionary architecture of Antoni Gaudí and the Picasso museum are in Barcelona while Madrid is home to Spain’s top three art museums.

Countryside's - If you would rather get some fresh air, Spain is filled with opportunities to visit wildlife parks as well as trekking. The Pyrenees, especially around the Aragón area, are the best areas for trekking. Andalucía has its Sierra Nevada mountain chain with luxurious skiing resorts near Granada. Ski-sports are possible from November up to May. Between Guadix and Baza (famous horse market) one can find cave-dwellings, cave hotels, and beautiful natural parks. North and between these towns still are unexplored desert sceneries, with hamlets not even found on maps! The highway infrastructure in this "wild" part of Andalucia is excellent.

Social Culture - Spanish people are very open-hearted and communicative. You won't have any problems to get to know someone, especially in the big cities like Madrid or Barcelona. It's often said that the Spanish living room is the bar where the people usually spend a lot of time in the mornings and in the evenings.

Linguistic Diversity - Not only Spanish is spoken in this country, but four languages and a lot of dialects. In Catalunya on the northern coast to the Mediterranean Sea people speak català; in Basque Country in the north of Spain people speak euskera (which isn't even a indoeuropean language); in the west in Galicia is spoken galego and in the rest people normally speak castellano (Spanish).

Spring and fall are ideal times to visit nearly all of Spain, with the possible exception of the Atlantic coast, which experiences heavy rains in October and November. May and October are the best months, in terms of both weather and crowds.

In summer it's hot, hot, and hotter still, with the cities in Castile (Madrid) and Andalusia (Seville and Córdoba) heating up the most. Madrid has dry heat; the average temperature can hover around 84°F (29°C) in July and 75°F (24°C) in September. Seville has the dubious reputation of being about the hottest part of Spain in July and August, often baking under average temperatures of 93°F (34°C).

Barcelona, cooler in temperature, is often quite humid. Midsummer temperatures in Majorca often reach 91°F (33°C). The overcrowded Costa Brava has temperatures around 81°F (27°C) in July and August. The Costa del Sol has an average of 77°F (25°C) in summer. The coolest spot in Spain is the Atlantic coast from San Sebastián to La Coruña, with temperatures in the 70s in July and August.

August remains the major vacation month in Europe. The traffic from France, the Netherlands, and Germany to Spain becomes a veritable migration, and low-cost hotels along the coastal areas are virtually impossible to find. To compound the problem, many restaurants and shops also decide it's time for a vacation, thereby limiting the visitors' selections for both dining and shopping.

In winter, the coast from Algeciras to Málaga is the most popular, with temperatures reaching a warm 60°F to 63°F (16°C-17°C). Madrid gets cold, as low as 34°F (1°C). Majorca is warmer, usually in the 50s, but it often dips into the 40s. Some mountain resorts can experience extreme cold.



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