Spain
Spain is a country of magnificent contrasts — the soaring Gothic spires of the Sagrada Familia against Barcelona's modernist boulevards, the Moorish grandeur of...
Where Passion Meets History and Sun
Spain is a country of magnificent contrasts — the soaring Gothic spires of the Sagrada Familia against Barcelona's modernist boulevards, the Moorish grandeur of the Alhambra rising from Granada's hilltop, the medieval labyrinth of Toledo frozen in amber light, and the wild Atlantic coast of Galicia. No two regions of Spain feel the same.
Sixth Gear creates Spain itineraries that capture the soul of each region. Private flamenco evenings in a Seville tablao, dawn at the Alhambra before it opens to the public, tapas bar crawls guided by a local foodie in the Basque Country — this is the Spain that lives beyond the guidebook.
Spain Through Our Lens
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
Toledo at TwilightTop Attractions in Spain
Antoni Gaudí's still-unfinished cathedral has been under construction since 1882 and remains the most visited monument in Spain. The interior in morning light is one of architecture's greatest spectacles.
UNESCO-listed Toledo is Spain's most intact medieval city — a labyrinth of Moorish mosques, Jewish synagogues and Christian cathedrals occupying the same ancient hilltop, encircled by the Tagus river.
The Alhambra palace complex is one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in the world. Arrive at dawn for the fountains, geometric tilework and snow-capped Sierra Nevada views without the crowds.
One of the world's great art museums — Velázquez's Las Meninas, Goya's Saturn Devouring His Son, Bosch's Garden of Earthly Delights. Allow at least half a day, preferably more.
Seville is the spiritual home of flamenco. The Gothic cathedral, the Real Alcazar's Moorish gardens and an evening tapas crawl through Triana make it Spain's most sensory city.
San Sebastian has the highest concentration of Michelin stars per capita in the world. The old town pintxos bars, La Concha bay and Zurriola beach make it the gourmet capital of Spain.
What to Eat in Spain
Spain's most iconic tapa — fried potato cubes smothered in spicy bravas sauce and alioli. Found on every tapas menu but executed best in Madrid's historic taverns.
Spain's great rice dish originates from Valencia — rabbit, chicken, green beans and saffron-stained rice cooked over an open fire in a wide, flat pan. A Sunday ritual across Spain.
Spain's finest culinary product — acorn-fed Iberian black pig cured for up to 36 months. Sliced paper-thin and eaten with bread and tomato, it is an experience unlike any other.
Andalusia's cold tomato and vegetable soup — intensely refreshing in the summer heat. The best versions come from Seville using vine-ripe tomatoes, olive oil and sherry vinegar.
The Basque answer to tapas — intricate miniature bites skewered on toothpicks, lined up along bar tops in San Sebastian. Gilda, txangurro crab and anchovy on olive are classics.
Spain's legendary breakfast — crisp fried dough spirals dunked in thick, dark hot chocolate. Best consumed at a traditional chocolateria in Madrid on a winter morning.
Spain by Season
Mild and green in Andalusia, Feria de Abril in Seville, Holy Week processions that are among the world's most dramatic spectacles. Ideal for city breaks.
Blazing heat inland — perfect for coastal Spain. The Costa del Sol, Ibiza and San Sebastian beaches are at their best from June to August.
Madrid and Barcelona come alive again after summer. La Rioja harvest festivals, mild weather and fewer tourists at the Alhambra. Highly recommended.
The south stays mild enough for city breaks to Seville and Granada. Ski season opens in the Sierra Nevada. Christmas lights in Madrid are spectacular.
Ready to Explore Spain?
Our Spain specialists will craft an itinerary that captures the heat, colour and culture of this extraordinary country — from Barcelona's Gothic Quarter to Andalusia's Moorish palaces.