Americans Traveling to Spain: Your Questions Answered

Key Takeaways

• Spain offers a wide range of cultural and historical highlights — from the Alhambra Palace and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to Antoni Gaudí’s iconic architecture in Barcelona — giving travelers many distinctive experiences to choose from.
• Families, food lovers, and adventure seekers can all find something memorable, including kid‑friendly attractions like Palmitos Park and PortAventura Park, as well as culinary favorites such as tapas, paella, pintxos, and regional festivals like San Fermín and La Tomatina.
• Spain is generally considered a safe destination, but travelers should stay aware of petty theft and may want to consider a travel protection plan, which may help with covered losses if plan conditions are met.

If you’re thinking of traveling to Spain, you’re probably familiar with the country’s highlights. From coastal Barcelona to stunning Seville, there are a number of must-see attractions that await your visit. You could easily spend a month exploring this kingdom on the Iberian Peninsula—so how do you narrow it down?

Here are answers to some of your key questions about traveling to Spain:

Planning a trip to Spain?

Unlike other European countries, touring Spain by train isn’t the most common tactic. Many of Spain’s most popular attractions are more easily accessible by a car or bus. 

What’s The Most Popular Thing to See?

The exquisite Alhambra Palace, or Red Castle, built by the Moors in the 13th century, is perhaps the most remarkable destination in Spain, if not the whole of Europe. A spectacular site, the palace complex and its colorful patios, gardens and water fountains will enchant you. Planning a trip to Spain at the right time is key—the Alhambra is fully open between March and October.

Where Can I Experience the Culture of Spain?

The culture of Spain is typified by its classical guitar-based Flamenco music and dancing, common along the Costa del Sol and specifically Andalusia. If you’re up for a challenge, try a dance lesson. Or simply revel in the traditional costumes and traditional songs in intimate local clubs.

What Is The "Can’t Miss" Attraction in Spain?

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is a world-class example of contemporary architecture designed by celebrated architect, Frank Gehry, and tops many lists of things to do in Spain. The building itself, coated in titanium, is a major tourist attraction while also offering a collection of modern and contemporary art, with an emphasis on large sculptures. You should definitely put this on your list of places to see when planning a trip to Spain.    

What Are The Best Spanish Fiestas?

If you time it right, you can witness the annual Running of the Bulls in Pamplona. Stunning images from this event are often the first things that come to mind when thinking about traveling to Spain. The annual San Fermin fiesta takes place every July 6 to 15 with daily bull runs and other cultural events. Or, if you’re up for a food fight, visit the town of Buñol, near Valencia. La Tomatina is a massive battle with tomatoes as ammunition held annually on the last Wednesday of August in honor of the town’s patron saint. 

Any Distinctive Places To Visit?

One of the most distinctive places is in the seaside city of Barcelona, home to the surrealistic Art Nouveau architecture of Antoni Gaudí. His signature structure—the Basílica de la Sagrada Família—is the most visited monument in Spain. Other Gaudi masterpieces include the Casa Vicens, his most important building, Parc Güell and Casa Batlló, a UNESCO heritage site. 

Where Can I Take The Kids?

Palmitos Park is a zoo and botanical garden on the island of Gran Canaria offering a dolphin encounter and other educational programs for kids. Though roller coasters may not be the first thing you think of when traveling to Spain, the PortAventura Park theme park in Catalonia features roller coasters, drop towers, and water rides in addition to parades and a firework show that the kids will love. 

What Tastes of Spain Should I try?

To get the true flavor of Spain, indulge in some of the classics—seafood paella with a refreshing glass of sangria, or a selection of tapas made with the famous jamón ibérico. Top off your meal with a decadent flan or a crispy churro with hot chocolate. Keep in mind that the Spanish eat late—it’s common to sit down for dinner between 9 and 11pm.    

Where Do The Foodies Go?

When traveling to Spain for the food, take a road trip along the picturesque Basque coastline and pause in the cool coastal city of San Sebastián. San Sebastián frequently tops lists of the world's best places to eat and it’ll make a charming addition to your itinerary. The lively old town is home to the popular pintxo bars and you’ll fall in love with the beach vibe at Playa de Gros.    

Any Other Things To Do In Spain?

If there are sports fans in your group, they’ll definitely want to check if FC Barcelona is playing during your trip. Watching one of the world’s top soccer teams at their iconic home stadium, Camp Nou, is an unforgettable experience. With nearly 100,000 fans cheering, the atmosphere is electric—even without Messi, who now dazzles fans in Miami.

Is It Safe?

Spain is generally considered a safe destination, but petty theft and pick‑pocketing are a couple of things to be aware of. Don’t leave your beach bag unattended while you swim and consider buying a travel protection plan to help protect your valuables.

Also read:
• Travel Insurance is a Smart Decision for a European Vacation
• Tips for Planning a Trip to Italy
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