The capital, as well as the geographical and cultural center of Spain, Madrid has long enthralled visitors. Since Prince Phillip II made Madrid the capital in the mid 16th century the city has become home to the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, as well as many museums, cafes, parks, universities, and cultural attractions. Although tourism in the city is growing, Spain's many other attractions mean the city is able to maintain its authenticity and you'll find local character and charm in each of its different neighborhoods. Madrid is perfectly located as a base for day trips to UNESCO-listed towns in central Spain and well connected for traveling onward to any corner of the country for further exploration.

Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Spain’s northern region of Galicia. It is most famous for being the final stop in the world-renowned “Camino de Santiago”, the famous Catholic pilgrimage. The city also boasts an impressive food scene, contemporary art, and has a UNESCO listed Old Town. Whether you are here for the Camino de Santiago or just to get off the beaten path in Spain, there is plenty to do in Santiago de Compostela. If you want to get a taste of the Path of St. James without committing to the 500 miles, you can visit the Monte do Gozo, the last hill of the pilgrimage. The region of Galicia is also famous for its delicious seafood, and the city of Santiago has a rapidly growing food scene.

As the name suggests, Portugal’s second-largest urban area is a port city, located in the north of the country along the Douro River estuary. A small Celtic hamlet until a Roman invasion in the 4th century, Portus Cale, as it became known, distinguished itself as a major trading port for not just the region but the entire country. The old city center, Ribeira, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. It is an urban landscape with over 2,000 years of remarkably well-preserved history. Traversing the narrow streets, you can’t help but notice that the spirit of local life still remains despite the increasing number of tourists.

The capital of Portugal since 1255 when King Alphonse II moved the court from Coimbra, Lisbon is not only regarded as one of the sunniest of the European capitals but one with a rich history on display. The soft white limestone facades of the oldest neighborhood, Alfama, welcome tourists, and locals, calling to them through the medium of Fado music drifting wistfully from the abundance of bars, or the smell of petisco (Portuguese tapas) wafting from a myriad of restaurants. Like its ancient rival Porto, Lisbon rests on mighty rivers originating from the eastern Spanish highlands. Remnants of human settlements in the vicinity of the city date back to the Neolithic period and since that time successful invasions have resulted in occupation by Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The rich tapestry of Lisbon’s history has been woven into the very fabric of the city.

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region hugging the Atlantic, has been Portugal’s top tourist locale for centuries. Ancient Romans used to come here to bathe in the thermal waters of Caldas de Monchique, to heal “weariness from the body and soul”. In modern days, people from all over the world still come to the Algarve to do the same, enjoying the area’s many resorts, beautiful beaches, stunning views, and amazing weather. With over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, it’s no surprise that the Algarve’s beaches are one of its most popular attractions.

Although it may not be the most famous city in Spain, Seville is considered by many to be the most beautiful. You get a sense of its unique charms as you meander through winding streets surrounded by characteristic white and pipeclay yellow walls of the painted buildings. Due to the hustle and bustle of port activity, 16th century Seville was the richest city in Spain. Goods of all splendor brought from the New World arrived at the feet of awestruck locals. Venture further into the city to marvel at the largest Gothic Temple in the world, Seville Cathedral, or try to imagine the sense of pride and awe felt by locals for hundreds of years as they gazed up at The Giralda Tower. This minaret was built in the Almohad period and was, for centuries, the tallest building in Spain and constructed as part of a Grand Mosque.

Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain. What makes this place so unique is that it was the capital of the Moorish kingdom until it was captured by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492. Today you will find a fascinating city, rich in multicultural history - a beautiful reflection of its Arab and Christian past. The Alhambra, a spectacular Arab citadel and palace, is certainly one of the main highlights of Granada but besides seeing this signature sight, you'll also enjoy being in the birthplace of tapas. True to its roots there are still places in Granada where the tapas is free with your drinks. Granada is one of the preferred destinations for European students, giving it a fun, vibrant university city feel. It is also a city with an important artistic energy. Strolling along the streets you will surely come across artisans and musicians showcasing their talents.

The capital, as well as the geographical and cultural center of Spain, Madrid has long enthralled visitors. Since Prince Phillip II made Madrid the capital in the mid 16th century the city has become home to the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, as well as many museums, cafes, parks, universities, and cultural attractions. Although tourism in the city is growing, Spain's many other attractions mean the city is able to maintain its authenticity and you'll find local character and charm in each of its different neighborhoods. Madrid is perfectly located as a base for day trips to UNESCO-listed towns in central Spain and well connected for traveling onward to any corner of the country for further exploration.