From beaches to cities, historical sites to modern day wonders, Spain has it all. Situated on Europe's Iberian peninsula, Spain is an ideal tourist destination for any type of traveling, whether one is looking for a relaxing beach retreat along the Gold Coast or a historical exploration of castles and cathedrals. Many people who visit Spain's diverse landscape find themselves coming back time and time again.

History

Much of Spanish history can still be seen today. Structures from as far back as the Roman era still stand, including impressive bridges and aqueducts in cities like Cordoba and Segovia. After the fall of the Roman Empire, much of the country was ruled by Moorish kingdoms, an era that lasted for nearly eight centuries. However, during this time, Christian kingdoms slowly fought to regain territory, a long process known as the Reconquest. After the last Moorish kingdoms were expelled from Spain and the country united under one kingdom, Spain entered a golden era of exploration and riches. Spain's wealth peaked, however, and the country then endured some difficult years, even suffering a civil war in the 1930s.

Culture and Sightseeing

There is much to do and see all throughout Spain. Some of the best museums can be found in the larger cities, especially Madrid, which is home to the Reina Sofia and the Prado, or Barcelona. For historical sites, Toledo is a popular choice, with winding streets and a gorgeous Gothic cathedral. Granada is another common tourist attraction, with its opulent Moorish palace, La Alhambra. Each region in Spain is rich with a distinctive culture, and none is more popular than in Andalusia, especially the city of Sevilla, which is well known for his pleasant atmosphere, distinctive bullfighting arena, and the famous Flamenco dancing.

Eat & Drink

Spain is well known for its Tapas, small appetizers that are often enjoyed with drinks in the evening hours. One of the more popular choices for Tapas are green olives, which are often considered to be one of Spain's finest offerings. Along the southern coast of Spain, which spans along the Mediterranean Sea, there are many delectable seafood dishes and many guests enjoy trying paella, a native dish that can feature fresh seafood or chicken. In the northern regions of Spain, there are a number of wineries and vineyards, and those with a taste for whine might enjoy sampling some of the local favorites.