When Spain welcomed 85 million foreign visitors in 2023 (in a country of 47 million people), it was not just because of good weather. Though the weather helps.
The food culture is world-class
Spanish food is not a single cuisine — it is a collection of extraordinarily different regional traditions. The pintxos of the Basque Country, the rice dishes of Valencia, the seafood of Galicia, the jamón and olive oil of Extremadura and Andalusia — all of it is accessible to anyone walking into a neighbourhood bar. The combination of quality, variety and value is genuinely hard to match anywhere in the world.
The cities are genuinely liveable
Madrid and Barcelona are usually on every "great cities" list, but they are only the starting point. Seville, Granada, Bilbao, Valencia, San Sebastián — each has a distinct identity, architecture and food culture. Spain's cities have invested heavily in public transport, cycling infrastructure and quality of life, which visitors feel immediately.
The cultural depth
Spain is home to 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the second-highest number in the world. The Alhambra, the Sagrada Família, the old city of Toledo, the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela — Spain's history is physical and walkable.
The cost vs. experience ratio
Outside the peak tourist centres, Spain remains excellent value. A three-course lunch with wine (menú del día) costs €10-15 in most cities. Accommodation, transport and entertainment are significantly cheaper than in northern Europe.
The climate diversity
Spain has the longest stretch of coastline in continental Europe and also has ski resorts, desert landscapes and green Atlantic coastlines. Whatever climate you prefer, Spain has it within a short drive.
