Barcelona: A Tapestry of History and Modernity
In the vibrant metropolis of Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter stands out as one of the most captivating areas to explore. This historic neighborhood, once a Roman village, is filled with remnants of its glorious past. As you wander through the labyrinthine alleys, you’ll discover charming plazas, hidden courtyards, and stunning churches, each telling a story of Barcelona’s rich history.
Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is housed in a beautiful 15th-century mansion, featuring quiet courtyards, ornate walls, and window frames. The museum displays a vast collection of Picasso’s works, as well as pieces by other artists.
From oil paintings to drawings, prints, and ceramics, the museum boasts a diverse range of styles. You will also find Picasso’s original manuscripts and books with his illustrations. Many of the early works, even those from his childhood, were donated by Picasso himself in 1970. 
Park Güell
A fantastical, unique, and beautiful place, Park Güell is considered one of the world’s most important modernist works and a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed basilica, is considered Gaudí’s masterpiece. Construction began in 1882, and the basilica is still under construction today. It is known for its unique modernist style and extravagant design.
Casa Milà
Casa Milà, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most outstanding creations, was built between 1906 and 1912. Every corner of the building is composed of curves and waves, making each angle a marvel of ingenuity and construction techniques.
Casa Batlló
This building, belonging to the Batlló family, is considered a jewel of modernism. At first glance, you will marvel at its modern facade and unique design, drawing you into the apartment’s interior. Its beautiful details, colors, and shapes will remind you of the ocean.
Granada: Where Passion and Faith Intertwine
Spain boasts numerous festivals, but the most important is Holy Week, celebrated every April. Many tourists come to experience it, and Granada, is one of the liveliest cities during this time.
During “Holy Week,” people are immersed in the rich “Easter” atmosphere, where the passion of southern Spain intertwines with religious mystery. Among the palm and olive trees, the first drum call heralds Palm Sunday, marking the start of an eight-day journey of passion, death, and resurrection.
The most important day of the Holy Week festival is Wednesday. The words spectacular, unique, and exciting are best used to describe Holy Wednesday. Purple, red, and gold fill the air. The Holy Week processions are divided into two parts: El Cristo del Consuelo and María Santísima del Sacromonte. Following the footsteps of the Cristo del Consuelo, a light of faith is ignited in the caves of the Sacromonte.
Old Town of Granada
Granada was occupied by Islamic forces during the Christian rule, and later recaptured by the Christians. Throughout the centuries, this land has been the stage for much history. Walk into the Old Town of Granada to learn about its history, architecture, and art.
Alhambra
The Alhambra, a famous Spanish palace, was the royal residence of the Nasrid dynasty, who established the Emirate of Granada in Spain during the Middle Ages.
It is considered the finest example of Moorish architecture in Spain, known as both the “City of Palaces” and a “Wonder of the World.” Construction began in the 13th century during the reign of King Al-Ahmar and his successors.
The Alhambra and the Generalife showcase all the known artistic skills of the Muslim world in Spain, with particular emphasis on the aesthetic value of the skillful use of water and vegetation.
Seville: Passion and Pilgrimage
Like Granada, Seville is one of the liveliest cities during Holy Week. The famous Seville Holy Week recreates the passion and death of Jesus Christ.
More than 50 processions with around 50,000 people participate in the parades, all dressed in Nazarene attire and following religious icons. The most attractive part of this festival celebration is the Virgin Mary statue under the canopy. The Baroque statue of the Virgin is crowned with a gold and silver crown, wearing an embroidered cloak and velvet robe. Only the face and hands of the Virgin are visible.
During the processions, people sing Saetas which are deeply moving. On Thursday night, the most famous icons participate in the procession, with crowds filling the streets from night until Friday morning.
Royal Alcázar of Seville
Step inside the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a palace that was originally a Moorish fortress, built in the first century. It is the oldest royal palace in Europe, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral is one of the world’s five largest cathedrals, built in the early 15th century.
Jerez: Sherry and Flamenco
Jerez is the origin of Sherry wine. In Spanish, “sherry” is the city’s name: “Jerez”. When the British brought Sherry to England, they couldn’t pronounce “Jerez” correctly, so they used the similar-sounding name, “Sherry.” Those who know Sherry wine understand that only the wines produced within the Sherry Triangle of Andalusia in Southern Spain—Jerez, El Puerto de Santa María, and Sanlúcar de Barrameda—can be called Sherry.
Flamenco Show
Jerez is considered the birthplace of Flamenco. Enjoy dinner while watching a flamenco show, a unique experience in Andalusia.
Inside a wine cellar dating back to 1739, performers will demonstrate the magic of ancient and pure flamenco dance. Experience a double feast for the eyes and the palate as you enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner while watching the show. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
White Villages of Andalusia
If you are tired of all the colors, you might want to see the gentle pure white of the world. Andalusia is the most beautiful and passionate part of Spain. The Arabs ruled here from the 8th to the 14th centuries.
Because of this, Southern Spain is a place where Christian and Islamic cultures collided intensely. In many towns, people like to paint their houses white so that it reflects the intense sunlight. The clear blue skies and white houses complement each other, creating a unique style in every white village.
Ronda
Ronda is a millennium-old city built on cliffs. As the hometown of bullfighting, Ronda is a sacred place for Spaniards, with Spain’s oldest bullring and museum, which once witnessed the love and hate of the fighters of that era.
Ernest Hemingway called it “the best place in the world to elope.” Rows of white houses stand atop rocky cliffs, truly worthy of the name “White City in the Sky.”
Must-Try Local Foods
Spanish Tapas
Tapas, in short, are Spanish appetizers. As the quintessential element of Spanish cuisine, tapas come in a wide variety of types, both cold and hot, and with a relaxed and casual feeling.
Flamenco Dinner
Jerez is the birthplace of flamenco, and tourists can enjoy dinner while watching a flamenco show.
Spain’s Most Difficult to Reserve Restaurant
The Califa hotel restaurant is one of the most popular restaurants in the area, recommended by Michelin. Located in a lush palm garden within a landmark 16th century building, both the food and dining environment are first-class. You must book your table six months in advance to be sure of a spot.
