Spain
Spain: Your Insider’s Guide
There's something magnetic about Spain that keeps drawing us back, year after year. Maybe it's the way flamenco rhythms pulse through Seville's cobblestone streets, or how Barcelona's Gothic Quarter seamlessly blends with Gaudí's whimsical modernism. Whatever it is, this country has a way of getting under your skin in the best possible way.
We've been curating experiences here for nearly a decade (although Kate’s first trip to Spain was in the late 90s), and honestly? We're still discovering hidden pueblos and secret tapas bars that surprise us. Spain isn't just a place you visit—it's a place that, if you allow it to, seeps into your soul. Whether you're an art enthusiast chasing Picasso and Dalí or a foodie hunting down the perfect jamón ibérico, there's something here that will speak to you. The locals have this incredible knack for turning any meal into a three-hour celebration, and once you experience the pure joy of a proper Spanish siesta followed by midnight dinners, you'll understand why we can't stop raving about this destination to our clients.
Sob re me sa: (n.) the time spent around the table after lunch or dinner, talking to the people you shared the meal with; time to digest and savor both food and friendshipThe Essential Details
When to go
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds. Summer is festival season but can be intensely hot, especially in the south. Winter is perfect for cultural exploration and avoiding overtourism in major cities. Time visits around major events like the Spanish Grand Prix (June 1, 2025) in Barcelona or iconic festivals like San Fermín (July 7-14), La Tomatina (August 27), or Semana Santa (March-April).
How Long To Stay
Minimum 10 days for first-timers covering 2-3 regions; 2-3 weeks for a comprehensive tour; 7-10 days perfect for diving deep into one region like Andalusia or the Basque Country.
Getting Around
High-speed AVE trains connect major cities efficiently—Madrid to Seville in 2.5 hours, Madrid to Zamora in just one hour. Rental cars are essential for exploring rural areas like Extremadura or the Picos de Europa. Domestic flights save time for island hopping or long distances.
Entry Requirements
No visa required for US/EU citizens for stays under 90 days. Valid passport required.
Entry Requirements
Lunch happens 2-4pm, dinner starts at 9-10pm. Sunday afternoons are sacred family time—many businesses close. Tipping 5-10% is standard. Learn basic Spanish phrases; locals appreciate the effort, especially outside major tourist centers.
Regions & Where to Go
Andalusia - The Soul of Spain
This southern region embodies classic Spanish imagery with its Moorish palaces, whitewashed villages, and passionate flamenco culture. Granada's Alhambra sits majestically overlooking the city, while Seville enchants with its romantic courtyards and intimate tapas bars.
Key destinations: Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Cádiz, Ronda Best for: First-time visitors, history buffs, flamenco enthusiasts How long: Ideally? 7-10 days
Catalonia - Art & Innovation Hub
Barcelona leads this northeastern region with its street culture, buzzy neighborhoods like Poblenou and Poble-sec, and architectural wonders from Gaudí to contemporary designers. The Costa Brava coastline stretches north with picturesque fishing villages and secluded coves that once inspired Dalí and Picasso.
Key destinations: Barcelona, Girona, Costa Brava, Tarragona Best for: Art lovers, beach enthusiasts, modern culture seekers How long: 5-8 days
Madrid & Central Spain - Cultural Powerhouse
Spain's capital boasts world-class museums in the Golden Triangle, year-round blue skies, and vibrant neighborhoods. The surrounding region offers medieval treasures like Toledo and royal escapes like El Escorial.
Key destinations: Madrid, Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial Best for: Museum enthusiasts, nightlife lovers, day-trip explorers How long: 4-6 days
Valencia & Eastern Coast - Modern Marvels
Spain's third-largest city blends Gothic architecture with futuristic design like the City of Arts and Sciences. The surrounding coastline offers beautiful beaches and the famous paella birthplace.
Key destinations: Valencia, Alicante, Castellón Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, beach lovers, foodies How long: 4-6 days
Valencia & Eastern Coast - Modern Marvels
Spain's third-largest city blends Gothic architecture with futuristic design like the City of Arts and Sciences. The surrounding coastline offers beautiful beaches and the famous paella birthplace.
Key destinations: Valencia, Alicante, Castellón Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, beach lovers, foodies How long: 4-6 days
Regions & Where to Go
Capital City Classics
Hotel Villa Magna - Madrid
Positioned in the heart of Madrid's Golden Triangle, this elegant property puts you steps from the Prado and Retiro Park. The rooftop terrace offers stunning city views, perfect for those who want luxury with cultural immersion.
Hotel Casa Fuster - Barcelona
A stunning Modernist building that embodies Barcelona's architectural spirit. Located on Gràcia's lively Passeig de Gràcia, it's ideal for design enthusiasts who want to live among Gaudí's masterpieces.
Regional Retreats
Hotel Parador de Granada - Granada
Spain's historic Parador hotels offer luxurious stays in converted palaces and monasteries. This location within the Alhambra complex provides unparalleled access to one of the world's most spectacular monuments.
Hotel María Cristina - San Sebastián
This Belle Époque beauty overlooks the Urumea River and puts you in the heart of the world's greatest culinary destination. Perfect for food lovers who want old-world elegance with Michelin-starred dining nearby.
Hidden Gems
Palacio de Santa Pau - Girona
A beautifully restored medieval palace in Catalonia's most charming small city. Ideal for those seeking authentic experiences away from Barcelona's crowds while maintaining easy access to the Costa Brava.
Torre de Sande - Cáceres
Cáceres is one of Spain's most beautiful yet least-discovered cities, with its UNESCO-protected Old Town featuring Roman, Islamic, and Renaissance architecture. This boutique hotel lets you sleep within medieval walls.
Our National Favorites
Must-Try Cuisine
Jamón Ibérico: Spain's crown jewel cured ham—seek out the best versions in Madrid's Mercado de San Miguel or Extremadura's dehesa farms
Paella Valenciana: Only authentic in Valencia, where this rice dish originated—avoid tourist versions elsewhere
Pintxos Culture: Experience Basque Country's elevated tapas in San Sebastián's old town bars, where each bite is an artistic creation
Signature Experiences
Flamenco Tablao: Witness Spain's most passionate dance in its birthplace—Seville's intimate tablaos offer the most authentic experiences
Alhambra at Sunset: Granada's massive Moorish fortress offers breathtaking views over the city, especially magical during golden hour
Guggenheim Bilbao: Skip the obvious tourist shots and instead explore the industrial transformation of Bilbao's old town markets and pintxos culture
Shopping & Crafts
Ceramics in Toledo: Traditional Mudéjar-style pottery and damascene metalwork from artisans continuing centuries-old traditions
Leather Goods in Ubrique: Andalusian town producing luxury leather for major European fashion houses—exceptional quality at fraction of retail prices
Culture & History
Prado Museum Triangle: Madrid's Golden Triangle houses three world-renowned museums—the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza
Roman Mérida: Extremadura's capital showcases Spain's best-preserved Roman ruins, including an amphitheater still hosting performances
Exclusive Experiences (Just for Our Clients)
These are the moments that transform a great trip into an unforgettable one—the kind of experiences you can't book online or find in guidebooks.
Private Culinary Access
Behind-the-Scenes Jamón Tour: Private access to century-old dehesa farms in Extremadura where master curers share family secrets of Spain's finest jamón ibérico production, followed by exclusive tastings unavailable to the public.
Cultural Immersion
Flamenco Masterclass with Legends: Private sessions with renowned flamenco artists in Seville's historic Triana neighborhood, learning the art form's emotional depth while experiencing intimate performances in family-owned studios.
Historical Insights
Private Alhambra Dawn Access: Early morning exclusive entry to Granada's Alhambra before public opening, guided by expert historians who reveal hidden details about Moorish architecture and Islamic Spain's legacy.
Seasonal highlight & Events
Spring (March-May):
Semana Santa (Holy Week) brings spectacular religious processions, especially in Seville and Málaga. Feria de Abril in Seville (two weeks after Easter) showcases Andalusian culture with flamenco, horses, and sherry. Cherry blossoms bloom in Extremadura's Valle del Jerte.
Summer (June-August):
Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix takes place June 1 in Barcelona. San Fermín's Running of the Bulls transforms Pamplona (July 7-14). La Tomatina tomato fight creates chaos in Buñol (last Wednesday in August). Peak season for festivals but intense heat in the south.
Fall (September-November):
Harvest festivals celebrate wine and food culture—Rioja's Fiestas de San Mateo in Logroño, Jerez's sherry festival. Barcelona's La Mercè festival features street theater, music, and light shows. Ideal weather for exploring without summer crowds.
Winter (December-February):
Christmas markets and Three Kings Day celebrations (January 6) showcase Spanish holiday traditions. Skiing in Sierra Nevada near Granada combines winter sports with cultural exploration. Perfect season for museum-hopping and culinary exploration without overtourism pressures.
Ready to start planning your Spain adventure?We'd love to craft something completely personalized for you—because the best trips are the ones designed around exactly what makes you tick, whether you want to explore every region or dive deep into what speaks to you most.
