Spain is one of Europe’s most visited tourist destinations, and as such the internet is awash with guides and information about the various destinations you may wish to visit. In terms of a handy guide where all you need to know about Spain’s must see cities, there isn’t much out there. So, if you’re looking for a city break rather than heading to the Costas with the rest of the hoards, here is our guide to three cities of Spain’s lesser known cities which you really should go and see.
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Who needs Barcelona and Madrid when the cultural hubs of Granada, Valencia and Cordoba are just waiting to be discovered?
Granada
The beauty of Granada is not only in the breathtaking aesthetics of this Moorish and Christian city, but also in its compact and walkable layout. If you enjoy heading off in the morning with no more than a vague of idea of where it is you are going or what you want to see, then Granada awaits to be discovered as you go. Whether you find yourself watching the world the go by with tapas and a cold beer to bring refreshment from the long, hot days, or ambling through the fascinating Moorish old quarter is neither here nor there, because during your stay in Granada you will be able to sample everything the city has to offer.
The nightlife is particularly lively and with Granada’s rich flamenco heritage you will be able to enjoy the moody rhythms of outcast Gypsies, Jews and Muslims long into the night.
Although the true spirit of Granada defies any structure, the Alhambra palace and fort complex, dating back to 889, is one sight you must ensure you see. The Alhambra is one of the most visited monuments in Spain and is rightfully listed as a world heritage site.
Valencia
Despite being one of Spain’s largest cities, Valencia usually falls behind Madrid and Barcelona on people’s Spanish to-do list. As trite and clichéd as it may sound, Valencia really does have it all. With an abundance of stunning architecture and old city charm, the Carmen area, with its roman churches, monuments and fantastic restaurants and hotels, is perfect for a romantic city break or time away with friends. If you’re more of a sun seeker, then 300 days of sunshine a year and an average temperature 18oC, not to mention the stunning beaches just a few kilometres from the city centre, should keep you satisfied. If you love your sea life, there’s also a splendid aquarium which houses a magnificent walrus as well as a smiley beluga whale.
Cordoba
There’s a popular Spanish saying which refers to just how beautiful the women from Cordoba are. As for the men, well we’re not so sure about that, but wherever there are beautiful women, there’s also likely to be some not unattractive men. So maybe if you’re travelling as a couple this is not the location for you, unless you want to show the whole of Cordoba just how stable your relationship really is.
Cordoba has more than its fair share of culture. With a historic quarter considered to be the largest anywhere in Spain as well as the biggest olive grove, this is traditional Spain at its best. Two Spanish staples, bullfighting and flamenco are big draws in Cordoba, and the music doesn’t stop there with an internationally renowned guitar festival.
I don’t know about Granada and Cordoba, but I have visited Valencia. What can I say? It was definitely worth it. There was so much to see and to do. I’d actually really like to go back as I don’t think I had enough time to experience everything the amazing city has to offer.
I thought of Spain like a place I wanted to go to but I thought of Madrid and Barcelona, and really there are so many other places to go and now I can see the picture in another way.