11 City Breaks in Spain That Take You Beyond Barcelona

The capital of Spain's Andalusia region, known for its flamenco dancing and nearly perpetual sunshine, Seville is a gorgeous city for a quick holiday break. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Santa Cruz quarter and wander into Alcázar Palace, or head to Casa de la Memoria for a bit of dancing (flamenco, of course).

The Spanish capital, Madrid, is yet another lovely city to jet off for the weekend, and flights to and from Madrid Barajas Airport are usually fairly inexpensive. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the ever-charming Retiro Park, home to the gorgeous Crystal Palace (which may or may not inspire you to jump around singing, "Sixteen Going on Seventeen").

Oh, and don't forget to indulge in a night of drinks and dancing Teatro Kapital Madrid — the city's largest club, with a whopping seven floors and the chance to party to virtually any genre of music, from Latin to House.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is known for its stunning medieval architecture and sweeping, mountainous views. For a chance to admire both, make your way to Alhambra — the palace and fortress that sits atop the city and dates back to Moorish monarchy. But don't fret, this city's more than stunning skylines and ancient architecture. Head to Bodegas Castañeda in the evening to indulge in a few (dozen) tapas and some delectable Spanish wine.

Another hilltop city, Toledo sits above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha in the heart of Spain. Known as the "Imperial City," the entire town has been dubbed an UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting more than 2,000 years of architectural history and a variety of religious monuments. A must-take holiday for any and all history buffs.

Tucked in Spain's northern Navarre province, Pamplona is best known for its annual Feast of San Fermín — whose festivities include the notorious Running of the Bulls — each July. If you're looking for an adrenaline boost one weekend this summer, book a trip between July 6 and July 14. and prepare to sprint your way through the streets of the old quarter with a pack of bulls chasing behind.

Floating amongst the Balearic islands in the Mediterranean sea, Ibiza is Spain's party island the place to be seen during the summer months. Though it's an undeniably touristy destination, the island's 100+ miles of coastline and vibrant night life are hard to beat and its capital, Ibiza Town, has become a chic, cosmopolitan destination.

Spend your days soaking up sunshine and sea air, then lean into the island's hedonistic lifestyle one evening and head to Lío, a raunchy cabaret bar and restaurant, for drinks and some Vegas-style entertainment (entrance is generally €70, including the cost of one drink).

Like Seville, Córdoba is also located in Spain's Andalusia region, sometimes called the "capital of churches." Its best-known attraction is undeniably La Mezquita — a massive mosque-cathedral dating back to the Middle Ages — though the city is also renowned for its many, floral-dotted patios (yes, really). No real agenda? Spend a day or two meandering Córdoba's streets and admiring their sun-drenched beauty, perhaps with a glass of sangria in hand.

A port city found on Spain's southeastern coast, Valencia — even more than many other European cities — is a true mix of old and new.

If you're looking for a taste of days' past, explore Valencia's many plazas, or central squares, which often lead to other charming courtyards. Plaza de la Reina is one of the most picturesque, but pro tip: stroll through for Insta-worthy photos, but do some exploring down the side streets for better (and more affordable) dining options than the tourist traps.

For a more futuristic adventure, visit the City of Arts and Sciences, instead. It's a massive structure (which wouldn't look out of place belongs in a Star Wars film) with loads of activities, including the Hemisferic — which includes a concave IMAX Dome theatre in its 100+ metre sphered roof — a science museum, an arts palace, an aquarium, and the spectacular esplanade garden called the Umbracle.

Located at the tip of the Asturias region in northwest Spain, Oviedo absolutely deserves a spot on your wish list of Spanish holidays. Burrowed between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay, this town is known for its Gothic architecture (including the Oviedo Cathedral) and rolling hills, making it the perfect place for a quiet getaway.

Bilboa is a fairly industrial city in the Basque Country portion of northern Spain, known for its bustling downtown and flourishing art scene. Make your way to the Museo Guggenheim (constructed of sparkling glass and titanium, as designed by Frank Gehry) to admire an array of modern art, then snag a drink in the city's Plaza Nueva.

Last but not least, for a truly luxurious holiday along the Costa del Sol, book a trip to Málaga. Visiting the city opens up the entire coast, and with yellow sand coastlines stacked with high-rise resorts, it's truly stunning. That's not to say Málaga lacks culture. Climb to either of the city's hilltop citadels — Alcazaba or Gibralfaro — for a look at the ancient ruins and seemingly endless sea views, then dance the night away in the town centre of Plaza de Uncibay and Plaza de la Merced.