A luxury Spain holiday often works best when you choose one or two regions and give them time. For families, that could mean Barcelona or Seville followed by Mallorca or the Costa del Sol. Couples might travel between Andalucía's cities by train, escape to a small hotel on Formentera or Lanzarote, or build the holiday around food, wine or golf. May, June, September and early October are ideal for much of the mainland and the Balearics, while the Canaries offer year-round sunshine and winter brings skiing in the mountains.
Spain at a glance
| Flight time from London | Around 2 to 3 hours to mainland Spain and the Balearics; 4 to 4.5 hours to the Canaries |
|---|---|
| Time difference | 1 hour ahead of the UK; the Canary Islands are on UK time |
| Entry | No visa for short Schengen stays; the EU's Entry/Exit System now applies at the border |
| Best time to visit | May, June, September and early October; the Canaries throughout the year |
| From the South West | Bristol offers the widest choice; Exeter serves selected mainland, Balearic and Canary routes |
| Best for | City-and-coast holidays, families, rail journeys, golf, food and winter sun |
Spain Highlights
- Explore the Alhambra, Córdoba's Mezquita and Seville's Alcázar, where Moorish courtyards, carved arches and tiled halls reveal Spain's layered history.
- Discover Madrid's great galleries and neighbourhood tapas bars, or combine Barcelona's Gaudí landmarks with time beside the Mediterranean.
- Stay in a private villa on Mallorca or Menorca, with sheltered beaches, harbour towns and family adventures close at hand.
- Follow Spain's food and wine from San Sebastián's pintxos bars to Rioja vineyards and the sherry cellars of Jerez.
- Hike volcanic trails on Lanzarote, follow foothill paths beneath the Sierra Nevada or play championship golf beside the Mediterranean.
- Experience flamenco in Seville or Granada, or time your visit with one of Spain's local festivals and street celebrations.
- Choose between winter skiing in the Pyrenees or Sierra Nevada and mild sunshine in the Canary Islands.
Discover Spain
Spain stretches from the green hills and food-loving cities of the north to sun-baked Andalucía, with Madrid at its centre and two very different island groups beyond the mainland. Across the country are grand cities, medieval towns, vineyard-covered valleys, mountains, beaches and volcanic landscapes. Fast rail links also make it surprisingly easy to combine several different sides of Spain within one holiday.
For families, that variety makes it easy to balance exploring with time beside the sea. In Mallorca, mornings on a quiet beach can be followed by the hill villages of the Serra de Tramuntana and dinner beside the harbour. Barcelona combines Gaudí's architecture with markets, parks and afternoons on the sand, while the Canaries offer beaches, boat trips and volcanic adventures throughout the year.
For couples, Spain can be as relaxed or as experience-filled as you want it to be. Link Madrid with the historic cities of Andalucía, plan a food-led journey through Rioja and the Basque Country, or combine championship golf near the Costa del Sol with a few slower days beside the Mediterranean. Return to a different region or season and the country can feel entirely new.
Art and Architecture
Explore centuries of art and architecture, from the Alhambra and Córdoba's Mezquita to Gaudí's Barcelona and Madrid's Prado and Reina Sofía.
Coasts and Islands
Choose from the Balearics' sandy coves, the Costa Brava's rocky inlets, Marbella's beach clubs and the Canary Islands' volcanic shores.
Food and Wine
Follow Spain's flavours from Basque pintxos bars to Andalucían tapas, with vineyard lunches in Rioja and sherry tastings in Jerez along the way.
Feeling inspired?
Start Planning Your Luxury
Spain Holiday
Tell me who's travelling and what you would love to experience, from a family city-and-coast adventure to a private wine and tapas journey through Andalucía, island-hopping across the Balearics or a slower, food-led escape along the Basque coast. I'll create a Spain holiday around you and take care of every detail from the first idea until you are home.
When is the best time to visit Spain?
Spain does not have one best season. May, June, September and early October bring warm weather and fewer crowds across much of the mainland and the Balearics. July and August suit beach holidays and the cooler north, although Andalucía and Madrid can exceed 35°C. Spring and autumn are particularly good for sightseeing and golf, while the Canary Islands remain warm throughout winter. From December, the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada add an entirely different side to Spain with skiing and mountain stays.
| Region or experience | Best months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Seville, Granada and Córdoba | March to May; September to November | Warm sightseeing weather without the fiercest summer heat |
| Costa del Sol | May to June; September to October | July and August are hotter but ideal for the beach |
| The Balearic Islands | May to October | Warm seas and a livelier atmosphere; much quieter in winter |
| The Canary Islands | Year-round | November to April is particularly good for winter sun |
| Northern Spain and San Sebastián | May to September | Greener, cooler and often quieter than southern Spain |
| Madrid and Barcelona | April to June; September to October | Comfortable for exploring; hot and busy in high summer |
| Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada | December to March | The main ski season, although snow conditions vary |
Featured regions
Where to go in Spain
Southern Spain
Best for: Moorish cities, beaches and golf. Andalucía is home to some of Spain's most important Moorish buildings, including Córdoba's Mezquita, Granada's Alhambra and Seville's Alcázar. Along the Costa del Sol, Marbella and Casares combine sandy beaches and beautiful hotels with some of Spain's leading golf courses.
Eastern Spain
Best for: city and coast in one trip. Eastern Spain runs from Barcelona and the coves of the Costa Brava to Valencia, the birthplace of paella, and the beach towns of the Costa Blanca. It works particularly well for a two-part holiday, combining architecture, food and culture in the city with a few slower days beside the sea.
Northern Spain
Best for: cooler summers, food and mountain scenery. Northern Spain is cooler and quieter than the south, with green landscapes and a dramatic Atlantic coastline. San Sebastián is known for its pintxos bars and restaurants, Bilbao for the Guggenheim, while the Picos de Europa offer mountain walks, traditional villages and some of the country's most impressive scenery.
The Balearic Islands
Best for: family beaches, villas and island variety. Each Balearic island feels different. Mallorca combines Palma's Gothic cathedral with mountain villages and a varied coastline, Menorca is quieter with small beaches and harbour towns, while Formentera is known for its clear water, laid-back atmosphere and beautiful places to stay.
The Canary Islands
Best for: year-round winter sun and volcanic landscapes. The Canary Islands offer warm weather throughout the year, making them a particularly good choice during the UK winter. Tenerife combines beaches with Mount Teide, Lanzarote is known for its volcanic landscape, while Gran Canaria has everything from sandy dunes to mountain villages and pine forests.
Madrid
Best for: art, food and a lively city break. Spain's capital works well as a city break in its own right. The Prado and Reina Sofía house two of Europe's great art collections, while Retiro Park, grand boulevards, neighbourhood tapas bars and Madrid's famously late evenings give you plenty to explore over a few full days.
Ways to experience Spain
Family holidays with city and coast
Spain makes it easy to combine a few interesting days with proper time beside the sea. Pair Barcelona with Mallorca or the Costa Brava, or follow Seville with a resort on the Costa del Sol. Children have architecture, markets and tapas to explore at the beginning, followed by pools, sports and relaxed beach days. If an all-inclusive stay appeals, my guide to which Ikos resort is best compares the different options.
Romantic journeys by train
Spain's high-speed rail network brings its great cities together without the need for internal flights or a hire car. Link Barcelona and Madrid before continuing south to Granada and Seville, or concentrate entirely on Andalucía. It works particularly well for couples who enjoy art, architecture and food but still want a relaxed pace, with beautiful hotels and evenings free to explore each city independently.
Balearic island escapes
The Balearic Islands offer far more than one style of beach holiday. Mallorca combines Palma, mountain villages and a varied coastline, making it a strong choice for both families and couples. Menorca feels quieter, with sheltered coves and harbour towns, while Formentera suits travellers looking for clear water, small hotels and a slower, more grown-up escape.
Canary Island adventures
The Canaries work throughout the year, particularly when mainland Spain is too cool for a beach holiday. Tenerife combines Mount Teide with polished resorts, Gran Canaria has dunes, forests and mountain villages, and Lanzarote's volcanic landscapes give it a character of its own. Days can include walking, cycling and exploring before returning to a pool or the coast.
Food and wine journeys
Spain is easy to explore through its food. A northern journey might combine the pintxos bars of San Sebastián with vineyard lunches in Rioja, while Valencia brings markets, rice fields and paella. Farther south, Andalucía offers tapas, olive estates and the sherry cellars of Jerez. I can build these into a wider itinerary or make food and wine the reason for the journey itself.
Golf and wellness stays
Spain has some of Europe's finest golf resorts, particularly around the Costa del Sol and Girona. Finca Cortesin near Casares offers a peaceful country-estate setting, while Camiral combines two championship courses with an extensive wellness centre in the Catalan countryside. Both work well when only one person plays, with spas, pools, excellent dining and plenty to explore beyond the course.
Handpicked hotels
Where to stay: luxury hotels in Spain
A glimpse of Spain's places to stay, from an Andalusian country estate to a barefoot island retreat. Many more are available.
Andalusian Country Estate
Finca Cortesin, Casares
Set in the hills near Casares, Finca Cortesin is a handsome estate of whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, courtyards and gardens, with 67 spacious suites and a small collection of private residences. Two outdoor pools, an elegant beach club, extensive spa and the championship golf course that hosted the 2023 Solheim Cup make it a wonderfully peaceful alternative to the busier Costa del Sol resorts. Best for: couples, golfers and a quiet Costa del Sol base.
Historic City Landmark
Grand Hotel Central, Barcelona
Set within a landmark 1920s Noucentista building, Grand Hotel Central combines historic character with contemporary rooms, an urban spa and relaxed Catalan dining. The rooftop infinity pool looks across Barcelona's old town, while the Gothic Quarter, El Born and many of the city's restaurants and cultural sights are close by. Best for: a stylish base for exploring Barcelona.
Championship Golf and Wellness
Camiral Golf & Wellness, Girona
Set within 500 acres of Catalan countryside near Girona, Camiral combines 138 contemporary rooms with two championship golf courses, including the Stadium Course chosen to host the 2031 Ryder Cup. Its wellness centre, infinity pool, tennis courts, cycling trails and family activities offer plenty beyond golf, while the beaches of the Costa Brava are around half an hour away. Best for: golfers and active families near the Costa Brava.
Mediterranean Resort Life
Puente Romano, Marbella
Designed like a whitewashed Andalusian village, Puente Romano offers spacious suites and private villas among botanical gardens beside Marbella's Golden Mile. With more than twenty restaurants and bars, a Six Senses Spa, beach clubs, tennis and extensive fitness facilities, it works particularly well for travellers who want plenty happening without leaving the resort. Best for: families and couples who want a lively beachfront resort.
Barefoot Island Retreat
Teranka, Formentera
Close to Playa des Arenals on Formentera's south coast, Teranka has 35 light-filled rooms and suites divided between settings inspired by the sea, land and sky. The pool, rooftop dining and quiet natural surroundings create an unhurried island stay, with the beach only a short walk from the hotel. Best for: couples and an unhurried island escape.
Volcanic Design Hideaway
César Lanzarote, Lanzarote
Set within the former Manrique family estate near La Asomada, César Lanzarote is an intimate adults-only hotel surrounded by the island's volcanic landscape. Its 20 individually designed rooms, peaceful pool and strong sense of place make it a stylish base for exploring Lanzarote's vineyards, trails and coastline. Best for: adults-only calm and exploring Lanzarote.
Why plan your Spain holiday with me?
I'm Rachael. I plan tailor-made holidays for curious travellers who love comfort. New experiences, lovely places to stay and someone looking after the details.
Design
I listen first, then shape your holiday around what you enjoy and what makes you comfortable. From the route to your room, with time to explore and time to relax.
Discover
With trusted specialists and local experts, I find distinctive places to stay and experiences that help you get to know a destination, chosen around your interests.
Travel well
I contact your hotels before you arrive, reconfirm your stay and share your preferences. I ask about upgrades and thoughtful extras where available, and support you until you're safely home.
Sample journeys
Luxury Spain Tailor-Made Itineraries
These itineraries are just a few examples of what is possible. I can tailor any of them to suit you or create something completely from scratch around the Spain holiday you have in mind.
Family Coast and Culture in Spain
3 nights · Barcelona
Begin with Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, colourful markets and Gaudí's unmistakable Sagrada Família. A family hot-air balloon flight offers a completely different view of the city and surrounding Catalan countryside.
4 nights · Marbella
Fly to Málaga and transfer to Marbella Club for four relaxed nights beside the Mediterranean. Spend your days between the beach, pools and family activities, with the option to explore Marbella's old town or venture farther into Andalucía.
A Romantic Journey Through Spain
3 nights · Barcelona
Begin among Barcelona's Gothic lanes and Modernist landmarks, from Gaudí's Sagrada Família and Park Güell to the galleries, restaurants and lively squares of El Born. Evenings can be spent over tapas or walking beside the Mediterranean.
2 nights · Madrid
Travel to Madrid by high-speed train. Discover the Prado, Royal Palace and elegant boulevards before slowing down in Retiro Park or exploring the tapas bars and neighbourhood restaurants of the capital.
2 nights · Granada
Continue by train to Granada, where the Alhambra rises above the city beneath the Sierra Nevada. Explore its Moorish palaces and gardens, wander through the lanes of the Albaicín and spend an evening among the teahouses and flamenco venues of the old quarter.
3 nights · Seville
Take the train to Seville for the Alcázar, cathedral and flower-filled streets of Santa Cruz. Enjoy relaxed days exploring tiled courtyards and riverside neighbourhoods, followed by tapas and flamenco as the city comes alive in the evening.
Spanish Cities and Island Shores
3 nights · Madrid
Begin in Madrid with the Royal Collections Gallery, a tapas lunch and time to explore the capital's grand avenues and neighbourhoods. Travel into the Castilian countryside to visit El Escorial before returning for dinner and flamenco.
3 nights · Valencia
Journey east by road, stopping in the clifftop city of Cuenca before continuing to Valencia. Explore the cathedral, Silk Exchange and Central Market, then cross the Albufera Lagoon to a traditional rice farm for a hands-on paella experience.
3 nights · Mallorca
Fly to Mallorca and discover Palma's cathedral, historic centre and former Jewish Quarter. Ride the vintage tram from Sóller to the coast, visit an island winery and enjoy time to relax or choose between a cooking class, kayaking and a visit to Valldemossa.
This hosted small-group journey includes luxury hotels, expert guides, selected meals and the flight between Valencia and Mallorca. Departures are limited to 18 guests, with a minimum age of ten.
Volcanic Isles, Atlantic Shores
2 nights · Gran Canaria
Begin in Las Palmas, exploring its colonial old town before travelling into Gran Canaria's volcanic interior. Visit traditional towns, discover the Bandama Caldera and enjoy your first taste of Canarian food and wine.
10 nights · Crystal Symphony
Sail first to La Gomera's cloud forests and Lanzarote's extraordinary volcanic landscapes before continuing to Madeira. Cross to Morocco for the markets and palaces of Marrakech or the coast of Agadir, followed by Casablanca. Return to Spain through Cádiz, with a choice of Seville, Jerez or Andalucía's white villages, before exploring the Algarve and finishing in Lisbon.
Your Spain, Designed
Around You
Your Spain holiday might link Madrid, Seville and Granada by rail, pair Barcelona with a few days on the Costa Brava, or combine an island villa with time in Palma. A food-led journey could take you from Rioja to San Sebastián, while golfers might spend a few days near Casares before slowing down beside the Mediterranean.
I'll help you decide which regions work well together, how long to spend in each place and whether travelling by train, car or internal flight makes the most sense. I'll also advise where an exceptional hotel, private guide, championship course or special experience is worth the investment, then bring your flights, accommodation, transport and experiences together into one carefully planned journey.
Start Planning Your Spain HolidaySpain holiday FAQs
British passport holders can visit Spain without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This allowance covers the whole Schengen area, so time spent in other Schengen countries counts towards the same limit. Entry requirements can change, so I recommend checking the latest Spain travel advice on GOV.UK before travelling.
Your passport must have been issued less than ten years before the date you arrive in Spain and must remain valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area. The issue date is easily overlooked, particularly on passports renewed before October 2018, so it is worth checking both dates before booking your flights. Check the current passport requirements.
Yes. You can use a UK driving licence for a holiday in mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands, and you do not usually need an International Driving Permit. Individual car hire companies can have their own requirements, so I will check what documents you need for the particular vehicle and provider included in your holiday. Read the current driving guidance.
Yes, I always recommend travelling with both. A valid GHIC gives you access to medically necessary state healthcare, but it does not cover everything. Private treatment, changes to your travel plans and medical repatriation to the UK may not be included, which is why a GHIC should never replace comprehensive travel insurance. Read the latest healthcare guidance for Spain.
Absolutely, particularly if you are drawn to architecture and history. Granada makes a wonderful short stay, but I would not automatically choose it over Seville or Córdoba for everyone. Seville offers a broader city experience, while Córdoba can work beautifully as part of a slower journey through Andalucía. I will help you decide which best suits your interests and secure timed Alhambra tickets well in advance if Granada is included.
It depends on when you want to travel. Mallorca and Menorca are particularly lovely from late spring to early autumn, when the sea is warm and family villas, beaches and boat days come into their own. The Canary Islands are the stronger choice for winter warmth, with mild weather and family-friendly resorts throughout the year. I will also consider flight times, transfer length and the atmosphere of each resort before recommending the right island.
A good flamenco performance is absolutely worth building an evening around. The key is choosing the right venue rather than simply booking the most heavily advertised show. Seville, Granada and Jerez all have excellent options, from intimate tablaos to more polished performances, and I will help you find one that feels authentic and suits the rest of your evening.
Often, yes. Bristol usually offers the widest choice of direct routes, while Exeter has a smaller seasonal programme that can work very well for certain coastal and island holidays. For less obvious regions or travel outside the main summer season, a London airport may offer better timings or a more convenient route. I will compare the sensible options for your dates rather than automatically sending you further from home.
For younger children, the Costa del Sol around Marbella or the calmer bays of Mallorca, where short transfers and family-friendly resorts make life easy. Teenagers often love pairing Barcelona or Seville with a few days on the coast.
Yes, and it's one of the best ways to see Spain. Barcelona with Marbella, Seville with the Cádiz coast, or Madrid with Mallorca all work well by high-speed train or a short flight.
As soon as your dates are fixed. Timed tickets for the Nasrid Palaces sell out weeks ahead in spring, summer and school holidays.
Very. Seville, Granada and Barcelona are wonderful for couples, and smaller hotels such as César Lanzarote are adults-only. My Romantic Journey Through Spain links Barcelona, Madrid, Granada and Seville by train over ten nights.
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