26 Famous Landmarks in Spain
From Gaudi’s quirky masterpieces in Barcelona to the stunning Alhambra in Granada, there are many famous landmarks in Spain.
Picture yourself strolling by grand cathedrals, roaming royal palaces, and hiking up incredible mountains.
Read on to discover some of the most well-known landmarks in Spain.
1. Basilica La Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)
The Basilica La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is a must-see. It’s a huge church designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi and has been under construction since 1882.
The building is famous for its tall towers and detailed sculptures that tell stories from the Bible.
Inside, it’s just as impressive, with colourful stained-glass windows and tall pillars that look like trees. It feels more like a magical forest than a church. You can even go up the towers to see great views of the city.
If you visit, buying your tickets online is a good idea to skip the long lines. Plan to spend a couple of hours here to see everything. There’s also a museum underneath that shows how the church was built.
🤩 Buy La Sagrada Familia Tickets Online 🤩
2. Park Guell (Barcelona)
Park Guell is like a fairy tale coming to life. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this public park is full of whimsical designs, colourful mosaics, and interesting shapes.
You’ll find unique sculptures, curved walkways, and the famous lizard statue covered in bright tiles.
The park is a great place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and take in the fantastic views of Barcelona. Remember to bring your camera because every corner of Park Guell is picture-perfect.
If you want to see other works of Gaudi, try Colònia Güell, one of the best day trips from Barcelona.
🤩 Buy Park Guell Tickets Online 🤩
3. The Royal Palace of Madrid
Madrid’s Royal Palace is a grand and majestic building that serves as the official residence of Spain’s royal family and the largest royal palace in Europe.
It’s one of the largest palaces in Europe, with stunning architecture and about 3,418 rooms. Inside, you’ll find beautiful art, elegant furniture, and rich decorations. The palace also has impressive gardens, perfect for a stroll.
Even though the royal family doesn’t live here anymore, the palace is still used for official ceremonies. It’s a must-visit for its historical significance and breathtaking beauty.
🤩 Buy a Royal Palace of Madrid Ticket 🤩
4. Plaza Mayor (Madrid)
Plaza Mayor is a central square in Madrid and a popular meeting spot. It’s surrounded by historic buildings with beautiful balconies and has a giant statue of King Philip III in the middle.
The square has a lively atmosphere, with many cafes and restaurants where you can sit outside and enjoy the view.
Plaza Mayor hosts various events and markets throughout the year. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant city life of Madrid.
🤩 Tour Plaza Mayor in Madrid 🤩
5. Museo Nacional del Prado (Madrid)
The Prado Museum is one of the world’s most famous art museums, home to an impressive collection of European art.
Here, you can see works by Spanish masters like Velázquez and Goya, as well as other famous artists like Rubens and Bosch.
The museum’s collection spans from the 12th to the early 20th century, making it a treasure trove for art lovers.
🤩 Buy Prado Museum Tickets Online 🤩
6. Santiago Bernabeu Stadium (Madrid)
Home to the Real Madrid football club, the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is a mecca for football fans.
This iconic stadium, the second biggest in the country, has seen some of the greatest moments in football history. Like the UEFA and FIFA finals.
Take a tour to experience the adrenaline-filled atmosphere of the ground, visit the trophy room, and even walk down the players’ tunnel.
But the best experience would be to see an exciting football game here!
🤩 Tour Santiago Bernabeu Stadium 🤩
7. Alhambra (Granada)
The Alhambra in Granada, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, is a breathtaking palace and fortress complex that showcases the exquisite Islamic architecture of the Moorish period in Spain.
Its intricate tile work, stunning gardens, and flowing water features make it a serene and beautiful place to visit.
The views of Granada from the Alhambra are spectacular, especially at sunset. Walking through its halls and courtyards, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
🤩 Buy Alhambra Entry Tickets 🤩
8. Granada Cathedral
Granada Cathedral is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Known for its grand facade and stunning interior, the cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s rich history.
Inside, you’ll be awed by its intricate details, from the beautifully carved altar to the ornate chapels.
The Cathedral of the Incarnation also houses important artworks and historical artefacts, making it not just a religious site but a cultural treasure as well.
9. City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia)
Futuristic and fabulous, Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences looks like it’s leapt out of a sci-fi film.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, this architectural wonder has many structures housing a planetarium, a science museum, an oceanographic park, and an opera house.
It’s truly one of the best things to do in Valencia, even for kids!
🤩 Buy City of Arts and Sciences Tickets Online 🤩
10. Valencia Cathedral
The Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, also known as St Mary’s Cathedral, or, to make it easier, Valencia Cathedral, is one of the most impressive buildings in Valencia.
Tight in the heart of the city, it is home to the Holy Chalice and is said to be the famous Holy Grail.
Inside, you’re greeted with amazing artworks, like those by Goya, that take you back in time.
Don’t miss out on climbing the Miguelete Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city – totally worth it!
11. La Lonja de la Seda (Valencia)
La Lonja de la Seda or Llotja de la Seda, the Gothic marvel in Valencia, takes you back to the days when the silk trade thrived.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, this former Silk Exchange captivates with its grand halls and elegant spiralling columns.
It’s a stunning snapshot of Valencia’s prosperous past, where every corner tells a story of commerce and culture.
12. Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao)
The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is a modern art lover’s dream.
Its eye-catching, titanium-clad building, designed by Frank Gehry, is a masterpiece, dazzling visitors even before they step inside.
Home to a fantastic collection of contemporary art, the museum’s dynamic exhibitions are as captivating as its architecture. This place isn’t just a museum; it’s a symbol of Bilbao’s cultural revival.
🤩 Buy Guggenheim Museum Guided Tours 🤩
13. The Aqueduct of Segovia
Standing tall in Segovia, the Roman Aqueduct is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering. This massive stone structure, dating back to the 1st century AD, stretches across the city with its graceful arches.
It’s a testament to Roman craftsmanship and has withstood the test of time, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone marvelling at ancient wonders.
14. Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral, or Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, is awe-inspiring in both size and beauty.
It’s one of the largest cathedrals in the world and the largest Gothic Cathedral. It is where you’ll find the tomb of Christopher Columbus, the explorer.
The cathedral’s intricate details, from its majestic altarpiece to the stunning Giralda bell tower, make it a breathtaking sight. Climbing the tower offers sweeping views of the charming city of Seville.
🤩 Check Seville Cathedral Tours 🤩
15. Alcázar of Seville
The Alcázar of Seville, another one of the famous landmarks in Spain, is a royal palace that blends Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its lush gardens, ornate courtyards, and stunning tilework, is a journey through centuries of Spanish history and culture.
It’s also famously known as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones.
🤩 Buy Alcazar of Seville Entry Tickets 🤩
16. Plaza de España (Seville)
Plaza de España is a semi-circular plaza built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, a blend of Baroque, Renaissance and Moorish styles.
With its grand canal, bridges, and colourful ceramic tiles representing different regions of Spain, it’s a picturesque and romantic spot.
Whether you’re taking a leisurely boat ride in the canal or just soaking in the atmosphere, Plaza de España is a memorable highlight of Seville.
17. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is not just a church; it’s the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
This stunning cathedral, with its intricate Romanesque architecture and Baroque façade, is a sight to behold.
Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Saint James the Apostle, an important religious site.
The cathedral’s majestic interior and the lively atmosphere of pilgrims arriving make it a truly unique experience.
🤩 Tour Santiago de Compostela Cathedral 🤩
18. Tower of Hercules (La Coruna)
The Tower of Hercules in La Coruna is the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use today.
This ancient structure, standing tall at the edge of the sea, offers not only a glimpse into Roman maritime history but also breathtaking ocean views.
Climbing the tower is a journey back in time, and reaching the top rewards you with a panoramic vista of the rugged Galician coast.
19. Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba
The Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba or Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an architectural wonder with its forest of columns and red-and-white striped arches.
Originally a mosque and now a cathedral, this building is a symbol of the religious and cultural changes that have shaped Spain.
Its serene courtyard and the stunning Mihrab are highlights not to be missed.
🤩 Tour Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba 🤩
20. Alcázar Fortress (Segovia)
Perched high on a rocky cliff, the Alcázar of Segovia looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.
This medieval fortress, with its distinctive turrets and imposing position, has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a military academy.
Today, it’s a museum showcasing the rich history of Segovia, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
21. Niemeyer Centre (Asturias)
The Niemeyer Centre in Asturias is a modern cultural complex designed by the renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer.
This strikingly modern structure stands out with its sleek, white curves against the Asturian landscape.
The centre hosts a variety of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, making it a hub of contemporary art and creativity.
22. Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands)
Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Tenerife, is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.
This park offers a landscape like no other, with its moon-like terrain, volcanic craters, and unique flora.
The cable car ride to the summit of Mount Teide provides breathtaking views of the Canary Islands.
It’s also located in the warmest place in Spain in winter!
🤩 Book Teide National Park Activities 🤩
23. Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote, Canary Islands)
Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote is famous for its dramatic volcanic landscape that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie.
The park’s stark, lunar-like terrain is a result of volcanic eruptions from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Visitors can explore the park on guided tours and even experience geothermal demonstrations, showcasing the intense heat just below the earth’s surface.
🤩 Book Timanfaya National Park Activities 🤩
24. Cueva de los Verdes (Lanzarote, Canary Islands)
Cueva de los Verdes, part of a massive underground tunnel formed by volcanic activity, is one of Lanzarote’s natural wonders.
This lava tube, one of the longest in the world, offers a unique and thrilling experience.
Guided tours take you through illuminated caves and tunnels, revealing the tube’s geological history and fascinating formations.
25. Caminito del Rey (Málaga)
Caminito del Rey in Málaga is an adventurer’s dream. This walkway, pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge, offers a heart-racing hike with spectacular views.
Once known as the world’s most dangerous path, it has been safely restored, allowing thrill-seekers to traverse its walkways and bridges while marvelling at the breathtaking scenery of the gorge below.
26. Picos de Europa National Park
Picos de Europa National Park, a stunning mountain range in northern Spain, is renowned for its dramatic scenery.
With its towering peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys, the park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Its diverse trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty.
