Northern Spain

Galicia stands apart with its unique blend of geography, scenery, and culture distinct from Spain's southern provinces. The region's urban hubs include the historic university city of Santiago, the coastal city of La Coruña celebrated for its ancient Tower of Hercules lighthouse, and bustling Vigo. Further south, Cambados reigns as the capital of Albariño, Galicia's famed white wine known for its delicate and fragrant qualities, adding to the region's allure as a cultural and gastronomic haven.

Asturias boasts the stunningly rugged Costa Verde, renowned for its picturesque sandy beaches that attract sun-seekers and surfers alike. Despite its higher annual rainfall, Asturias offers a lush landscape that beckons climbers, walkers, cavers, kayakers, and nature enthusiasts to explore the peaks and valleys of the Picos de Europa National Park. This region is dotted with charming villages and notable highlights such as the Lakes of Covadonga, a serene mountainous area with glacial lakes. Asturias' largest urban centers include Gijón, situated on the western side of the Bay of Biscay, and Oviedo, the provincial capital known for its medieval old town and pre-Romanesque churches.

The Basque Country stands out as a distinctive region with its own identity and culture. Despite its small size, this region is a treasure trove for travelers. The Costa Vasca, or Basque Coast, remains relatively undiscovered compared to other Spanish coastlines, offering pristine beaches and charming seaside towns. The city of Bilbao is a cultural hub renowned for its iconic Guggenheim Museum, which showcases contemporary art in a stunning architectural setting. Inland, the Basque Country surprises with its alpine landscapes, perfect for hiking and exploring. This blend of coastal beauty, cultural richness, and natural splendor makes the Basque Country a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique Spanish experience.

Renowned for its vibrant capital city Barcelona, Catalonia remains a top destination for travelers from around the world seeking a blend of cultural richness, sunny beaches, and iconic architecture like Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces. Beyond Barcelona's allure, Catalonia boasts a fiercely independent spirit akin to the Basque Country. Visitors flock to the region not only for urban exploration but also for the sun-drenched coastal retreats of the Costa Dorada and Costa Brava. The Costa Dorada enchants with its golden sands and family-friendly resorts, while the Costa Brava captivates with its rugged coastline, dotted with hidden coves and crystalline waters. Catalonia's cultural heritage is evident in cities like Girona, with its medieval architecture and vibrant Jewish Quarter, and Tarragona, known for its Roman ruins and ancient amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean.

Castile and León is the largest region in central Spain bordering Portugal. Despite its geographical challenges, the region offers rich cultural and historic treasures. The capital city, Salamanca, stands as a beacon of Spanish intellectual and architectural heritage. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts stunning examples of Spanish Renaissance and Baroque architecture, including the iconic Plaza Mayor and the intricately adorned Salamanca Cathedral. Beyond Salamanca, Castile and León beckons with picturesque towns like Ávila, encircled by medieval walls, and Segovia, famous for its Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale Alcázar fortress. The region's rural charm and serene landscapes provide a tranquil escape, perfect for exploring historic sites, savoring traditional Castilian cuisine, and discovering the essence of authentic Spain.

Rioja is renowned for producing some of the world's finest wines. This region offers visitors unparalleled opportunities for wine tasting and tours through picturesque vineyards. Situated just south of the Basque Country, this region also caters to those seeking tranquil escapes amid stunning landscapes. Beyond wine, Rioja boasts charming medieval villages like Laguardia, nestled amidst rolling hills and vine-clad slopes. The region's capital, Logroño, charms with its lively atmosphere, historic churches, and vibrant culinary scene centered around traditional pintxos and Rioja wines. Whether exploring the cellars of renowned wineries, hiking through scenic vineyard trails, or indulging in the flavors of Rioja cuisine, this region promises a rich tapestry of experiences for wine connoisseurs and adventurers alike.

Madrid, both the city and the surrounding single province region, offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions beyond its role as Spain's capital. Nestled within the majestic Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains, Madrid's countryside is dotted with charming villages that provide tranquil retreats and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. Just outside the bustling city, visitors can explore El Escorial, a monumental complex that served as the historical residence of Spanish kings and houses a magnificent basilica and library. Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates with its well-preserved historic center, where renowned figures like Miguel de Cervantes were born. Aranjuez, known as the king's spring residence, enchants with its lavish gardens, palaces, and tranquil riverside setting along the Tagus River.