A bullfight easily captures the spirit of a trip to Spain. Never boring, it promises thrills, reveals the toreador’s courage and dedication to his art, while also betraying his sympathy for the bull once wounded. Yes, Spain is all heart - intense, passionate, exciting. It’s in its sprawling countryside and golden beaches, in its historic towns and world-class museums, in its rich cuisine and colourful fiestas, and even in its siestas (or naptimes) that everybody takes ever so seriously. If you want a trip to remember for a long time to come, then you’ll have to decide on Spain.

Barcelona

Famed for its individuality and cultural interest, Barcelona is the capital and cultural hub of Spain's Catalonia region, and one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. When Hans Christian Andersen visited in 1862, he remarked that Barcelona was the "Paris of Spain." You're likely to agree. The city is a major cultural centre with a fascinating history. Everywhere are archives, libraries, museums and buildings of interest - plus superb examples of modernist and Art Nouveau décor and architecture.

Stroll along Las Ramblas, explore the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter or visit Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Alternatively, take a biking tour through the old town and along the seafront. Take a walk around Gaudi’s Park Güell, a truly magnificent oasis of plants, trees and buildings.

Attractions

• The Picasso Gallery, composed of several adjoining 15th-century palaces housing a huge collection (over 2,000 pieces) of the master’s work.
• Las Ramblas, the broad promenade with street vendors and performers, shops, restaurants and clubs and a wonderfully vibrant part of the city where people watching is pastime.
• The many churches and cathedrals of Barcelona and the city's modernist architecture along Paseo de Gracia.
• Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces, including the unfinished cathedral of Sagrada Familia, truly unique with its flamboyant spires, unusual curves and sculpted figures; and, La Pedrera, with its organic-looking, wavy stone façade, perhaps the most unique block of apartments and offices in the world.
• Museo Picasso, a fascinating showcase of the master’s important early works. Other must-sees: the Museum of Modern Art and the palatial Museu d'Art de Catalunya, with works by El Greco, Dali and other masters who called Barcelona home.

Bilbao

The cultural heart of Spain's celebrated Basque country, the shining city of Bilbao is filled with Gothic architecture and landmarks that herald its centuries-old history. But the more modern additions to this post-industrial port town - namely, the spectacular Guggenheim Museum - seem to be drawing the most attention these days.

Attractions

• Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art, on the banks of the Bilbao River. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum is made of undulating strips of titanium and limestone, creating the building's unique shape. Inside, works by Picasso, Braque, Sera and Warhol offer glimpses into the minds of some of the greatest artists of modern time.
• Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, on Bilbao's right bank, where open-air markets beckon with fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Cathedral de Santiago, a Christian pilgrimage site where the magnificent stained glass windows of the Arriaga Theater can be seen.

Cartagena

In the southeast of Spain on the Mediterranean Sea, you'll find a natural harbour surrounded by five hills - welcome to the seaport known as Cartagena. Cartagena was the main city of the Spanish Carthaginians, who named it after their own capital. The port is rich in ancient and maritime history. The town is walled, the harbor defended by forts, and Roman ruins are scattered throughout. Let the adventure begin!

Attractions

• The remains of Cartagena's 13th century Cathedral of Santa Maria and the remarkable Roman Theatre, discovered in 1987. The theatre dates from the 1st century BC and was once considered the finest in Spain. Sculptures, reliefs, altar stones and other items found at this site can be seen in the Municipal Archaeological Museum.
• The Mar Menor, Europe's largest lagoon, for an unforgettable swim. Moorish Kings once came to Mar Menor to recharge their bodies in the warm, salty water.
• The Barco Turístico (Tourist Catamaran) tour, for a history of the harbour, its forts, local stories and legends.
• The Museo de Carruajes y Motocicletas (Museum of Carriages and Motorcycles), for a collection of carriages ranging from the 17th century to the present, and one of Spain's largest motorcycle collections.

Ibiza

Ibiza ("e-vee-tha" or "e-bee-tha" or "e-bee-zha," depending on where you're from).attracts all sorts of people with its vibrant nightlife and perfect Mediterranean climate. In fact, outside of Paris or Manhattan, there’s hardly a more cosmopolitan mix than the one you’ll find in Ibiza. Ibiza’s beaches, some of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean and often the setting for many movies, draws this international party crowd.

Attractions

• D'Alt Villa, which has all the hallmarks of a tranquil Mediterranean port: quaint shops, picturesque homes and narrow streets.
• The party scene! Be sure to bring your dance shoes. Ibiza is world-renowned for its trance-style music, which captures the euphoric atmosphere of the island.

La Coruña

If there ever was a seafaring city, La Coruña is it. It's been a port and gateway to world travellers for over 2,000 years. From almost any spot, you can witness spectacular panoramic views of the ocean. Located on Spain's northwest Atlantic coast, this ancient city is a pleasing blend of the old and new. It is the site of the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world and the early training ground of the young Picasso. In addition to its collection of Romanesque streets, squares and medieval churches, La Coruna's dazzling beaches and lively nightlife have made it a favourite vacation destination.

Attractions

• The main shopping areas of Calles Real, San Andres and Canzones, for everything from antiques to beautiful handmade leather goods.
• The magnificent Tower of Hercules, the city's landmark since the 2nd century.
• The fishermen's houses' with their glazed window balconies, the reason why La Coruña is called "The City of Glass".

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

With its landscapes filled with beaches and more than 300 volcanoes, plus perfect weather all year round, you'll quickly see why Lanzarote is an award-winning tourist destination. The island's dedication to the environment and tourism has even resulted in recognition from the World Tourism Organization as a universal model of sustainable development. In addition, the island has gone to considerable lengths to preserve its own history, culture and heritage.

An ecological paradise, Lanzarote is perfect for exploring. Its crystal-clear waters, scuba diving and snorkeling are phenomenal, as are the deep-sea fishing and surfing. Another advantage Lanzarote has is the wind itself. With steady trade winds all year round, it's one of the best windsurfing spots in the world. Or, if you'd rather stay on land, you can ride the beach by horseback, venture out on a bike trip or hit the golf course.

Attractions

• The César Manrique Foundation, which features works by the world-famous artist as well as his private collection of other artists. The foundation is located in what was once Manrique's house, which has architectural features just as fascinating as the art inside it, e.g., the five lava bubbles that were turned into underground rooms when the house was built.
• El Golfo, a volcanic crater filled by underground seawater. It's a spectacular sight, with stunning deep-green water on a black-sand beach.
• Timanfaya, the national park with a volcanic field and approximately 180 different plant species that also serves as a laboratory for biological research.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is one of the seven Canary Islands, located off the northwest corner of Africa. As the most populated island of the archipelago, you'll find the local culture is a unique blend of Spanish, African, Latin American and Northern European communities. But the diversity doesn't end there. Gran Canaria also has three distinct climates and landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, gorgeous beaches and tropical forests with lush vegetation.

Attractions

• "Puerto Rico,” Gran Canaria's most popular and family-oriented resort and the centre for all water sports, from deep-sea fishing and diving to sailing and biking. It also offers tennis courts, a miniature-golf course, a water park, and of course, a fantastic beach.
• Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno, for an in depth look into the island's interesting culture and history.
• Las Palmas, the capital city with plenty of museums, theatre, music, shopping, restaurants, and even a beach, Las Canteras, right in the centre.

Malága

A bustling coastal city and the capital of Costa del Sol, Málaga is the second largest port in Spain. One of the most interesting places to explore is the old historic quarter, which dates back nearly 800 years. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga boasts miles of beautiful beaches, picturesque gardens and fantastic weather.

Attractions

• The unusual Cathedral of Málaga at the heart of town. Built over two centuries ago on the site of the former main mosque. It features 17th-century carved choir stalls, fine pictures and 103 individually carved saints.
• Museo de Málaga, for works by notable 19th and 20th century artists including Pablo Picasso, a native of Malága.
• The town of Nerja and its famous cave, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Inside the cave are impressive stalagmites and stalactites and the exceptional 105-foot-high central column in the Cataclysm Chamber.
• Alhambra Palace, in nearby Granada, a work of arabesque fantasy and one of Spain's greatest architectural accomplishments.

Mallorca

Since the late 1990s, the island of Mallorca has undergone a tremendous transformation – in an attempt to correct its reputation as a cheap destination for fun under the sun. The facelift included dropping the name Majorca in favour of the original, Mallorca, and even literally blowing up old-style hotels. Today, Mallorca is once again a chic holiday destination, celebrated for its style, natural beauty and the unpretentious warmth of its people.

Attractions

• Palma Sóller Railway, the scenice locomotive ride through mountains, forests and olive and orange groves.
• ‘Super clubs' for glamorous dance parties.
• La Sierra de Tramuntana, a series of craggy mountains and calm, fertile valleys.
• Mallorca’s crystal waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
• S 'Albufera Nature Reserve, a marshy coastline formed by lakes and natural and artificial canals.
• Pirates, a show which features acrobatics, gymnastics and dancing. Over the years, it has drawn over 3 million customers.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is the major city and port on the island of Mallorca. The island's coastline is marked by a series of small caves and beautiful beaches.. The number of people greatly increases in the spring, as the island is a favourite European resort. In the summer, Spain’s Royal Family spend their holidays here.

Attractions
La Seo, the city's massive Gothic cathedral, which was built on the site of a mosque and makes an impressive sight as you sail into Palma. Antonio Gaudi himself has helped restore parts of this cathedral.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tenerife’s north shore is separated from the south by rugged mountains, creating a rain shadow. The majority of the island’s most recent resorts are found in the sere and parched south shore. Take a deep breath. Can you smell bananas or pineapples? They are grown on the plantations which are just a short ride away from the beautiful beach resorts and lively town centre of the island.

Santa Cruze de Tenerife is the capital of Tenerife.

Attractions

• Puerto De La Cruz, a town on the northwest shore, which has been the premier family resort since the turn of the 19th century. Nearby is Loro Parque, an extraordinary park that boasts the world’s largest parrot collection as well as a superb aquarium.
• Las Canadas National Park, where Mt Teide rises 12,300 feet (3718m) from the floor of a volcanic crater that is over 29 miles (47km) in circumference.
• Orotava Valley, considered ‘the garden of Tenerife.’ Orotava is also one of the island’s oldest settlements.
• Botanical Gardens, home to a staggering range of plants and trees from around the world.
• Pyramids Of Guimar, step pyramids of the Guimar Valley that are mystery to archaeologists. Does their resemblance to Aztec pyramids prove a link between the New World and ancient Egypt?
• La Laguna, the island’s old capital, a city of graceful colonial houses and convents dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Seville (Cadiz)

The charming old quarter in Cadiz makes it easy to see why the small town is frequented by Spaniards on holiday. Its intriguing ancient streets, delightful plazas and flower-filled balconies make exploring a must. Along the way, restore your energy at any of the mouth-watering tapas bars offering some of the country's finest seafood and typical Andalucian cuisine.

Valencia

Marvel at the collision of old-world charm and modern architectural genius in Valencia - Spain's gateway to the Mediterranean. Among the baroque cathedrals, bustling plazas and engineering masterpieces, you'll find friendly locals, inspired artists and a rich cultural heritage.

Vigo - Galacia

A busy, mid-sized port on the Atlantic Coast, Vigo is located just north of Portugal and is Galacia's largest and most industrialized city, dating back to Roman times. If you're a beach-lover, then Vigo is for you. You can soak up the rays at one of several sparkling beaches, including Samil, Alcabre and Canido.

Attractions

• Enjoy some of the most beautiful coastline in the world during a drive along the scenic coastal road to La Toja, a city where you'll experience true Galician culture - rich in historical significance and home to a church that is completely covered in seashells.
• Explore the ruins of Santa Maria de Dozo. Visit the famous El Berbes or fisherman's area to see the Oyster Market. Explore the oldest part of the city, with its twisting streets, flights of steps and old mansions.