Washington, DC, is a city with endless appeal.
08.03.2024 - 10:55 / lonelyplanet.com / Reina Sofía / Art
From the snow-dusted, ski-worthy Pyrenees to the glinting golden beaches of the south, Spain unfolds in a series of ever-changing landscapes, traditions, attractions, cuisines and even languages.
Its vast natural spaces are a dream for those who love the great outdoors, while the cities, towns and villages fizz with energy, cultural jewels and mouth-watering gastronomy. But where to start? Whether you’re keen to get stuck into dazzling architecture, cycle to a secret beach or spend your days tasting wines, tapas or olive oils, here are 20 unmissable things to do in Spain.
Hitting the beach is a national hobby here, and you’ll inevitably fall in love with your own pocket of Spain’s 5470km-long (3400-mile) coastline. Leave the crowds behind by escaping to tranquil, hidden coves that can only be reached on foot, on a bike or on horseback. Head out hiking along Menorca’s pine-shaded Camí de Cavalls (a restored 14th-century path) to reach turquoise coves; ramble between wild, pebble-studded bays along the Costa Brava; walk to remote sugar-white strands on Andalucía’s breezy Costa de la Luz (also great for kitesurfing); and find protected nudist beaches in Almería’s Parque Natural Cabo de Gata.
From headlining grape-growing regions such as La Rioja and the cava-making Penedès to Andalucía’s unmatched Sherry Triangle, Spain’s 70 Denominaciones de Origen (Denominations of Origin) roll out a tantalizing line-up of wines. Many wineries here are now experimenting with unusual combinations, pushing forward sustainable production methods and working to recover rare ancestral grapes.
For the most exciting tours, seek out small, independent bodegas (some still run by their founding families) and track down lesser-known wine-making areas such as Galicia’s up-and-coming Ribeira Sacra, Catalonia’s cool Costers del Segre or the innovative El Hierro and Lanzarote DOs in the Canary Islands. Salud!
Planning tip: If you'd prefer to be the designated drinker rather than the driver, here are some other ways to travel around in Spain.
Spain’s capital is one of Europe’s greatest cities for art lovers, with a clutch of prestigious galleries where you’ll meet such icons as Picasso’s Guernica (Centro de Arte Reina Sofía), Van Gogh’s Les Vessenots in Auvers (Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza), and Velázquez’s Las meninas and Goya’s Saturno devorando a su hijo (Museo del Prado). More hidden thrills range from sketches by poet Federico García Lorca to mysterious works by Antoni Tàpies. Pre-book tickets online and explore galleries first thing; some even offer "out of hours" tours before the doors officially open.
Planning tip: Save some energy, though – later on, one of the best things to do in the capital city is join the madrileños at buzzy
Washington, DC, is a city with endless appeal.
Greece inspires our dreams – we dream about its azure seas, its charming island villages and its myriad beaches, both broad and minute. We dream about the Acropolis, shining on a hill over fascinating Athens. This grand country, from mountaintop to city street, lives up to those dreams. Greece satisfies travelers looking for adventure, the great outdoors, relaxing seaside vacations and immersive cultural experiences.
No historical plaque marks the spot known as Platja des Franceses, or Frenchman's Beach, on the Spanish island of Mallorca. In fact, as I turned off a back road in the warm haze of a late summer's afternoon, there was little to distinguish it from other parts of Alcúdia Bay, a roughly eight-and-a-half-mile-long arc of soft sand and gently lapping crystal-clear waters. Like most corners of the Mediterranean in July, it was a genial hubbub of families playing, lovers smooching, and sun worshippers lazing. But I recognized the location, framed by a shady grove of pine trees with a headland in the distance, from murky black-and-white holiday photographs and a flickering Super 8 movie I'd watched on YouTube.
With its wild coastline, ancient history and cultural contributions that have left a mark around the world, England is one of the world’s most alluring destinations.
With an 1800-km-long (1118-mile-long) shoreline sloping into some of the clearest Mediterranean waters, it's easy to see how Sardinia has become one of Italy's most coveted summer destinations.
As for much of Italy, Sardinia promises an unforgettable family adventure that blends pristine natural landscapes with mysterious archeological sites, flavorful food and welcoming people, all set in the captivating atmosphere of the Mediterranean Sea’s second-largest island.
Spring has sprung in Monterey; sunny days are longer, wildflowers are in bloom, whale watching is at its best, and abundant outdoor activities are in full swing. Inns of Monterey offer much more than just a good night’s rest. Each hotel immerses guests in Monterey’s rich history, shares a tale worth telling, and sets the stage for making memories. For a one-of-a-kind visit, Inns of Monterey feature special packages and discounts, and each boutique hotel offers a unique locale, theme, and décor to fit travelers’ styles. Active links are available to book instantly. Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa is the ideal home base for a family spring break. With the “Stay Longer and Save” package, guests who stay three nights will receive 15% off any room type that includes a flexible cancellation plan, and staying four nights saves 25% on any room type. The hotel features abundant gardens, hacienda-style buildings, and gracious guestrooms in Monterey’s Historic District. Home to award-winning Esteban Restaurant, Executive Chef Ben Hillan’s California-inspired Spanish cuisine is prepared with the finest and freshest local ingredients. Indoor and outdoor patio seating is available for dinner and weekend brunch. Amenities for the whole family abound, like the outdoor heated pool, pet-friendly accommodations, complimentary use of bicycles, fitness center, and DESUAR Spa which offers a variety of treatments. Signature amenities include convenient on-site parking, electric vehicle charging stations, and complimentary wifi. Casa Munras is at 700 Munras Avenue, Monterey, California 93940. (800) 222-2446. www.hotelcasamunras.com Book Now.
Part of the enduring appeal of Barcelona is the ease with which travelers can wander between neighborhoods.
Even though its population doesn't even hit half a million, Zürich is a forerunner in Switzerland when it comes to business, banking, nightlife and gastronomy. If it’s happening in Switzerland, it’s happening in Zürich first.
Storybook beaches, hissing volcanoes and granita in spades: Sicily offers what every kid dreams of.
Explore Spain’s world-famous natural scenery and cultural heritage – and savor its acclaimed cuisine at every pit stop – with a road trip across this beautiful country.
From Mexico to St. Martin, Spain to Jamaica — and quite a few destinations in between, including Bulgaria — Secrets Resorts & Spas have remained a primary player in Hyatt's push toward both luxury and all-inclusive resorts. The luxury brand continues to be one of the best of its kind, impressing Hyatt loyalists and travelers in search of the kind of vacation where you don't have to think about your wallet even once. On top of that, all of the properties are adults-only.