For those looking to jet off to somewhere warm and welcoming right now, Spain might be the ultimate cure for the winter blues.
With its gorgeous cities, fascinating history, and gold-sanded beaches, the southwestern European country has long been one of the most coveted destinations on Earth – the second-most visited, to be exact.
However, when it comes to exploring a region so attraction-filled and diverse, choosing your destination goes well beyond picking the name of the country; you need to ensure that the city you’ll be spending most of your time in will be worth the time and money.
That’s why Tour Review recently conducted a study based on over 1.9 million traveler reviews across Google, Viator, Expedia, GetYourGuide, and TripAdvisor in search of the Spanish destination people have loved the most.
Below, you’ll find the 5 cities with the most stellar reputations:
5. Malaga
Peacefully resting along the sun-kissed Costa del Sol, Malaga has transformed itself from an under-the-radar beach escape to a record-breaking destination travelers just can’t seem to get enough of.
Here, at the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, art lovers will be able to marvel at some of the artist’s best work at the museum that holds his very name, while those more keen on exploring the city’s long-winded history might prefer an excursion to the Alcazaba castle instead.
The one thing that’ll bring travelers of all interests together in Malaga, though, is the golden, palm tree-lined coastline.
Playa de la Malagueta, Playa de la Carihuela, and Playa de Burriana are just a few of the dozens of world-class beaches you’ll get to enjoy only in this stunning Spanish city.
4. Santiago de Compostela
Holding a secure place among idyllic beaches and bustling metropolises, Santiago de Compostela is quickly emerging as one of Spain’s best-kept secrets.
While the 90,000-inhabitants city doesn’t have the warm allure of Malaga or the endless entertainment options of Madrid, it’s one of the most authentic, culturally rich destinations you can find in all of Spain.
The iconic Cathedral not only stands as a testament to the city’s historical and spiritual significance (attracting pilgrims from all over the world) but is also nothing short of an architectural marvel that can be admired by people of all religions and backgrounds.
3. Seville
Seville, the land of flamenco festivals, remarkable food tours, and Moorish-influenced historical sites, continues to be one of Spain’s most visited and highest-rated hotspots.
The Andalusian capital, while smaller in size than many of its competitors in the travel scene, comes with an arsenal of world-class attractions that make it a force to be reckoned with.
Between the jaw-dropping Alcazar palace, the towering Giralda (which now serves as a bell tower for the largest Gothic cathedral in the world), and thrilling events like Feria de Abril, one thing’s for sure – your Seville itinerary will be jam-packed.
2. Madrid
The Spanish capital needs no introduction among traveler circles; chances are you’ve had it on your bucket list for quite some time, and with so many cultural sites being based in the city, it’s easy to see why.
The beating heart of Spain is home to the iconic Prado Museum, which currently showcases masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, just to name a few.
Beyond the art scene, those of you looking forward to a Madrid visit this year will be able to explore the famous Retiro Park, the historic charm of Barrio de las Letras, as well as the trendy boutiques of Malasaña.
1. Barcelona
Boasting well over 1 million traveler reviews with a total average of 4.38/5, Barcelona emerged as the undisputed winner of the Tour Reviews ranking.
While I could go on raving about world-renowned sites like La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, or Casa Batlló, it’s safe to assume that you’ve already heard of (and wished to experience firsthand) the city’s many architectural and cultural wonders.
What I do want to say is that after an extensive sightseeing tour, I’d recommend taking a day or two to simply see where the day takes you and experience the city beyond its famous facade – eat in mom-and-pop restaurants, go people-watching in La Rambla, and lie in the soft, golden beaches even if right now, the weather doesn’t really allow for proper sunbathing sessions.
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