Holidays in Spain – everything you need to know
What do you think of when you picture a holiday? If you dream about wonderful weather, stunning nature and beautiful accommodation, then Spain should definitely be on your list! Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations worldwide – for good reason! Each year, this country receives millions of tourists looking to enjoy Spanish culture, beautiful sights, a wonderful climate and stunning nature.
We all know that Spain is a popular destination for a great sunny holiday, but what exactly is it that makes Spain so perfect? Let us tell you all about it! The beaches of the Spanish Costas on the Mediterranean are particularly popular and provide entertainment for both young and old. What’s more, the diverse cities and delicious tapas ensure the ultimate holiday experience. And we haven’t even mentioned the Balearic Islands, the islands in the Mediterranean, or the Canary Islands yet! Are you ready for the ultimate holiday in Spain?
Holidays in Spain – General
Spain is located in the southwest of Europe and has over 47 million inhabitants. The country’s diversity is reflected in its wide range of cultures, languages, eating habits and climates. It boasts beautiful fishing villages in the northwest, as well as the sun-drenched Costas on the east coast, not to mention many cosmopolitan cities. And besides the Spanish language (Castillan), Catalan, Basque and Galician are also “co-official” languages of the country.
Spaniards love good food, and they eat as many as five times a day! They eat later than average in Europe with lunch between 2pm and 4pm and their evening meal around half past nine in winter and often as late as half past ten in summer. Restaurants in Spain open later, which is good to know when planning a holiday on the Costa Brava in Spain! Well-known Spanish dishes are, of course, tapas, paella, tortillas, not to mention Iberian ham.
Due to its varied landscapes, coasts and culture, Spain attracts all kinds of tourists. Many young people spend their holidays in Spain due to its many entertainment venues. Lloret de Mar is, of course, a well-known area for nightlife, but Spain is also very popular with families and older people.
Want to know more about eating and drinking in Spain? Then read our handy guide to Spanish meals – from breakfast to late-night snacks
What can you expect from a holiday in Spain?
There are many reasons to opt for a holiday in Spain. The country’s east coast is, of course, known for its great climate, so many tourists see this region as the perfect base. You can spend your days sunbathing on the breathtaking beaches or enjoy a wonderful walk along the promenades in the evening. The beautiful Spanish Costas, such as the Costa Brava, the Costa Maresme, Costa Blanca and the Costa Dorada offer a mix of picturesque villages and lively seaside resort towns such as Blanes, Tossa de Mar, Denia, Calpe, Javea, Sant Antoni de Calonge, Playa d’Aro, Palamos and of course Lloret de Mar.
You can visit several bustling cities, such as Barcelona or Girona. Spanish islands like Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca, are also very popular among tourists. Not to mention Tenerife! In short, there is something for everyone here! Below, we’ve once again listed our main reasons for choosing a holiday in Spain.
1. Enjoy the pleasant climate
Spain has three climate zones. The north and northwest have a marine climate, the central mainland has a land climate, and the islands and coastal areas to the south and east have a Mediterranean climate. For the coastal areas of Spain, the warm Mediterranean climate makes for mild wet winters and warm dry summers. The Mediterranean Sea has a warming effect on the region in winter which is reinforced by the presence of mountains and hills behind the Costas that retain the warmth of the sea and hold back the cold from the inland in winter.
In summer, a holiday on the Spanish Costas is almost guaranteed to mean hot and dry weather. Did you know that Spain gets almost 300 days of sunshine a year? Due to its pleasant climate, Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations for many Brits. It is the mild climate that causes around 18 million of them to choose a holiday in Spain every year.
2. Sunbathing on the most beautiful beaches in Spain
Of course, Spain has much more to offer than just beautiful beaches. Nevertheless, the country’s beaches are one of the main reasons why many people choose to holiday in Spain. Many of the beaches on the Costa Brava are truly breath-taking, with clear water and fine pearly sand. You can relax and enjoy the sun, a nice picnic, a good book and refreshing water on these beautiful, paradisiacal beaches all day.
There are many idyllic beaches to enjoy, some surrounded by large cliffs, others hidden in secluded bays with crystal-clear water. In the evening, take a walk along the beach or visit one of the best local beach parties. The great thing about Spanish beaches is that they range from small, pebbled areas to long, sandy stretches with azure, crystal-clear, clean water. In the Canary Islands, you will find particularly breath-taking beaches with sublime conditions.
There is a beach for everyone in Spain! This is the perfect place to relax and unwind on a beautiful beach every day – all you need is a beach towel and a good book to start your dream holiday in Spain. Relaxation at its finest! No matter which beach you choose, you’re guaranteed the perfect setting.
3. There’s plenty to discover on the Spanish Costas
Of course, you can also enjoy sun, sea and sand on one of the Spanish Costas. Sprawling sandy beaches, clear blue water and beautiful rock formations are characteristic of the Spanish Costas. Enjoy the sun and the tropical atmosphere on a cosy terrace or take a walk in one of the picturesque villages, old towns or beautiful nature reserves. The Spanish Costas are perfect for those looking for a varied getaway.
The Costas have won the hearts of millions of annual visitors – tourists from all over the world come to the Spanish Costas every year, but what makes this region so popular? The combination of pleasant temperatures throughout the year and low rainfall in summer make the Costas an ideal destination for sun lovers. In addition, they offer plenty of small fishing villages and picturesque hidden towns to visit, as well as well-known cities such as Barcelona, Salou, Blanes, Callela and the nightlife of Lloret de Mar. For those who prefer to enjoy breath-taking scenery, the east coast is also known for its many beautiful bays and coves, rolling hills and game reserves. There are also many cultural attractions to explore. What more could you want? A holiday to Spain means you’ll never be bored.
4. ‘La vida buena’ on the Spanish islands
Of course, you can also spend your holiday in Spain on one of the Spanish islands! Here, too, you can fully enjoy the Spanish lifestyle, or ‘la vida buena’. Each year, many visitors fall in love with the Balearic Islands which consist of big names like Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. These beautiful islands are located about 50 to 125 miles east of the Spanish mainland and offer plenty of sun, sea and sand. Ibiza is of course known as the party island, but Mallorca attracts both partygoers and rest-seekers. Menorca is a comparatively quiet island which is very suitable for families with young children.
The Canary Islands also belong to Spain, but they are located in the Atlantic Ocean. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Tenerife are all popular holiday destinations due to their location and pleasant climate. These islands have a subtropical climate due to their location on the African coast. The Canary Islands are therefore suitable for a sunny holiday all year round! In short, the Spanish islands are a great reason for many people to choose a holiday in Spain!
5. Picturesque villages and cosmopolitan cities
Of course, a holiday in Spain should also include a visit to some of its many picturesque villages. On the Costa Brava, for example, the following villages are definitely worth a visit: Calella de Palafrugell with its white houses and narrow streets, the port town of L’estartit, the medieval village of Pals, authentic Rosas and Tossa de Mar with its Old Town. On the Costa Maresme, you can visit the sleepy coastal town of Sant Pol de Mar or Alella for their vineyards. But Spain has many more idyllic villages, such as the white villages of Andalusia, Frías the smallest village in Spain or Setenil de Las Bodegas where the houses are built under a rock ledge. Do you want to know more about the most picturesque villages in Spain? Check out our blog: Looking for the most beautiful villages in Spain!
Fancy going shopping in a bigger city during your holiday in Spain? Or would you rather see some beautiful architecture? The following Spanish cities are more than worth visiting! Number one, of course, is the capital Madrid. But also check out Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Seville or Bilbao. We’ve covered these cities in our blog ‘7 Cities to Visit When in Spain’.
6. Sights to discover
In addition to sun, sea, sand and stunning nature, Spain has many sights that you definitely don’t want to miss. There is a natural park at Cap de Creus on the Costa Brava that is ideal for divers. You should also make sure to visit the Cathedral of Girona with beautiful views over the city. Or how about Barcelona with the Sagrada Familia, the bustling street of las Ramblas, the mosaic facade of Casa Batlló or even the Picasso museum?
The traditional fishing village Moraira on the Costa Blanca is another popular place to visit. Moraira’s watchtower is one of the most famous sites in Spain, and the town’s market is another visitor favourite. Alternatively, check out the city of Cadiz – the oldest city in Western Europe. Would you prefer more peace and quiet during your holiday in Spain? Luckily, Spain has no less than 14 national parks to explore and to take serene photos! There really is something for everyone. Are you ready to discover Spain?
7. 1,001 activities during your holiday in Spain
With roughly 5,000 miles of coastline, you should really check out Spain’s great sailing opportunities – after all, it’s a national sport here for a reason! Prefer an afternoon of windsurfing, diving in the rich underwater world or enjoying a bike or walking tour? Anything is possible here.
Diving in the Canary Islands is a special experience. Discover its rich marine life with many species of fish and volcanic rocks shaped like giant mushrooms. Mallorca is a popular destination for cycling. Race through the almond groves, exhaust yourself in the tough climbs of the Serra de Tramuntana or cycle along the beautiful coastline at your leisure.
For those who prefer to explore by foot, the Cap de Creus Natural Park on the Costa Brava makes for a spectacular backdrop thanks to its rugged cliffs, wooded areas, lush meadows and quiet coves. Those looking for water-based fun should be sure to visit Waterworld in Lloret de Mar – the largest water park in Europe. Here, you’ll find an extensive range of water attractions, slides, swimming pools, a wave pool and jacuzzis. There are more than enough activities to keep you active during your holiday in Spain!
8. Great accommodation options
Make your holiday to Spain complete by renting a beautiful holiday villa. Whether you need a place to recover from one of many sporting activities, a night of partying in Lloret de Mar or just want to enjoy a siesta by your own private pool, a villa or holiday home in Spain is a perfect and affordable solution. Spain is one of the most affordable holiday destinations in Europe. The apartments, holiday homes and villas here are cheap and affordable. There is nothing better than waking up in your own private villa in Spain and soaking up the sun on your own terrace or by the pool. Whether you want to stay on the Spanish Costas or on one of the Spanish islands, there is always a holiday home to meet every requirement!
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Have we managed to convince you to visit this beautiful country? Would you like to know more about renting a holiday home on the Spanish coast? Then feel free to take a look at the Clubvillamar website – as true experts on Spain, there’s no doubt you’ll find your perfect accommodation in our extensive range!