It’s not hard to find a reason to fall in love with Spain. This country on Europe’s Iberian Peninsula is rich in history and has diverse landscapes, gorgeous churches and other stunning attractions. The iconic monuments tell stories of great empires and visionary geniuses like Gaudi. Many of these famous landmarks in Spain also hold a UNESCO status. They are also the most visited attractions in the country.
You will find beautiful monuments in every corner.
Famous landmarks in Spain you need to add to your bucket list
We have cherry-picked 23 sites that would be fun to visit at least once in a lifetime. Here are the most beautiful Spanish landmarks that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
The most beautiful Spanish landmarks
1. Alhambra
The Alhambra, or Red Castle in Arabic
There’s no doubt that the Alhambra is one of the most beautiful Spanish landmarks. This elegant palace in southern Spain’s Andalusia region is rich and diverse in past. You can find it in Granada on the Sabika hill, overlooking the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The Alhambra is one of the most famous attractions in the country because it is one of the best-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world. This beautiful palace complex with UNESCO status dates back to the Moorish Occupation. The Nasrid dynasty built it between the 13th and 14th centuries when they ruled Granada.
The Alhambra is memorable evidence of Arab presence in Spain for over 700 years. This historical Moorish fortress is a perfect example of Islamic architecture. There are 4 main sites in the Alhambra: the Nasrid Palace, the Alcazaba, the Generalife Gardens and also Charles V’s Palace.
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Head to the Mirador de San Nicolas. It’s a viewpoint at the top of the hill in the UNESCO-listed Albaicín neighbourhood, which offers gorgeous views of the Alhambra. Also, don’t forget to book your ticket in advance.
2. Plaza de Espana
It’s easy to see why the Plaza de Espana in Seville draws millions of tourists. This grand square in the Maria Luisa Park is an architectural masterpiece. The locals constructed it for the Ibero-American Exposition in the 20th century. After that, the Plaza de Espana has become a perfect example of Regionalism Architecture.
The Plaza de Espana has a beautiful design, blending Renaissance, Baroque and Moorish architecture. It has a half-moon shape, a beautiful canal and a fountain that compliments the square’s walls. It even has four bridges with ceramic tiles – they symbolize historic regions of Spain – Castille, Aragon, Navarre and Leon.
The Plaza de Espana is the most famous for gorgeous tiles or azulejos, which are common in the Andalusia region. 48 mosaic-covered benches at the foot of the building represent provinces that Spain had at the time. You can even rent a rowing boat and sail through the canal.
3. Aqueduct of Segovia
Romans knew how to build things to last. This double-arched wonder is not a relic but a living testament to the legacy of Roman craftsmanship.
In the heart of Spain lies one of the most famous monuments in the country. The aqueduct of Segovia is an engineering marvel that not only stood the test of time but also challenges. The Romans built it around the first century AD to get water from the River Frio 17 km (11 mi) away. The Aqueduct of Segovia filtered water through a series of tanks along the way. It was in use until the late 19th century.
The Aqueduct of Segovia is a perfect example of Roman construction. It has a UNESCO status and is a symbol of Segovia. It is also one of the best-preserved Roman aqueduct bridges.
4. New Bridge, Ronda
Also, don’t miss Ronda, which sits on a massive rocky outcrop. This mountaintop town was one of the last Moorish bastions. Today, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain. Tourists flock here from all corners of the world to see the famous stone bridge over the Guadalevín River.
The 18th century New Bridge is 120 metres (390 ft) tall and connects the New and Old Town. Did you know it contains a small chamber? It is now an exhibition room, where you can learn more about the bridge’s history. Also, visit two beautiful viewpoints – Mirador La Hoya del Tajo and Mirador Puento Nuevo de Ronda. Both offer gorgeous views. Afterwards, find 18th century bullring. It’s the oldest and most important bullring in Spain.
5. Alcazaba Malaga
You can see its walls and remaining towers from almost everywhere in the city.
Malaga was also under Moorish rule and boasts several attractions from this era. One of them is the Alcazaba palace at the foot of Gibralfaro hill. This beautiful palace is not as grand as Granada’s Alhambra but is also one of the most famous Spanish landmarks.
The 11th-century Alcazaba stands out as one of the best-preserved Moorish fortress palaces in the country. It is a valuable monument from the Islamic period. It is also one of the largest military buildings, which you can still find in Spain. The Alcazaba has beautiful architecture, floral patios and courtyards and offers some of the best views in the city. Make sure you don’t miss it, as it is one of the best places to visit in Malaga.
6. Gibralfaro Castle
The Gibralfaro Castle is also one of the famous monuments because it is another testament to Malaga’s Islamic heritage. Unlike the nearby Alcazaba, this protective fort had a more warlike purpose. You can still spot many lookout towers and ramparts.
As Malaga became the main port of the Emirate of Granada, the Sultan of Granada expanded this castle in the 14th century. It served as a lighthouse and had military barracks and soldiers. However, its most famous moment was during a three-month siege by Catholic monarchs in the 15th century. You are right to think that Christian troops besieged the Arabs in the fort, and after running out of food, they surrendered. After the Christian Reconquest, it became the symbol of Malaga’s flag and the province. Because of that, the Gibralfaro Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.
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Don’t miss Gibralfaro viewpoint, which offers beautiful views of Malaga, the bay and the mountains.
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The most famous landmarks by Gaudi in Spain
7. La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is one of the famous landmarks most people can easily link to Spain. This Roman Catholic Basilica in Barcelona is the symbol of the city and Spain’s most visited attraction. It’s Gaudi’s grandest gig, and once it’s finished, it will be the tallest church in the world.
Did you know it took about 20 years to complete the Great Pyramid of Giza? La Sagrada Familia has been under construction for 140 years. The good news is that they plan to complete it by 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death.
Gaudi didn’t even start this project – he inherited it and devoted 40 years to this church. He didn’t just randomly put bricks together. Antoni blended Spanish Late Gothic and Art Nouveau styles in La Sagrada Familia. He filled this church with secret meanings and motifs inspired by nature.
La Sagrada Familia attracts millions of visitors because it is one of the greatest buildings constructed since the Middle Ages. The tickets to this church usually sell out quickly, so make sure you book them online in advance.
8. Casa Mila
Casa Mila, or La Pedrera as the locals call it
It’s clear why Casa Mila stands out as one of the most famous Spanish landmarks. La Pedrera isn’t just a building – it’s a Gaudi masterpiece which guarantees to leave your jaw on the floor! Casa Mila was the final building of this famous architect before he dedicated the rest of his life to La Sagrada Familia. It’s a testament to Gaudi’s brilliance and one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona.
What sets Casa Mila apart from other structures is that it doesn’t have straight lines or right angles. Gaudi took inspiration from nature and gave this apartment block an organic design. He turned its façade into a wavy wonder. Also, he put a spiky forest of chimneys on its roof. UNESCO-listed Casa Mila has a beautiful rooftop terrace which offers gorgeous views. Therefore, Casa Mila needs to be on your bucket list.
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9. Casa Batllo
Casa Batllo needs no introduction for any passionate traveller. This unusual building in Barcelona is another place where Gaudi throws a wild, never-ending party. He transformed this apartment block into what looks like a giant dragon’s nest in the heart of the city. Again, he used his unusual style with its curving lines and no straight lines.
Casa Batllo remains one of Barcelona’s top attractions because it is a perfect example of Catalan Modernist architecture. It’s no surprise to hear that UNESCO included this ‘’House of Bones’’ on its list of precious sites. Therefore, it is also one of the most famous Spanish landmarks.
10. Park Guell
Thousands of tourists flock to Barcelona to see the famous Park Guell on El Carmen Hill above the city. Just like La Sagrada Familia, this green space is also one of the best works of Antoni Gaudi, as it’s clear as day why.
Park Guell is a UNESCO favourite, and here is the reason: it’s all about funky designs featuring colourful mosaics, curved shapes and sculptures. Look closely and see that this public park is rich in symbolism and nature motifs. It’s because it belongs to the architect’s naturalist phase. Park Guell has hidden caves, fairytale-like Hansel and Gretel houses, a plaza with a wavy bench and many other surprises.
It’s surprising to learn that this gorgeous park is a commercially unsuccessful housing site for the wealthy. This park should have originally nearly 60 houses. Yet the authorities built only 4. One of them became Gaudi’s residence for 19 years. Today, it serves as the Gaudi House Museum.
Park Guell is one of the best Spanish landmarks because it is a perfect example of Gaudi’s creativity. This green space shows a beautiful blend of art and nature and provides pretty city views.
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The central Monumental Zone of the Park Guell is a hotspot for tourists. Don’t forget that you need to buy a ticket if you want to see the famous designs.
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Other famous Religious landmarks in Spain
11. Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba
Step into the past at the Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba. Little has changed since the 10th century when Cordoba was one of the greatest cities in the Western world.
Let us paint a picture of why the Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. This unusual church in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia has incredible historical value. It dates back to the era when Muslims ruled Al-Andalus (Andalusia region), including most of Spain and Portugal.
856 columns were once part of an old Roman temple which once stood here.
The Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba is one of the oldest structures still standing from the days of Moorish rule across Andalusia. The Mezquita also has a UNESCO status because it is a perfect example of Islamic architecture. It is a popular tourist attraction and one of the best historic monuments in the country.
You are right to think the Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba shows how two religions and cultures shaped Andalusia. After the Christians reconquered Cordoba, they converted it to a Catholic cathedral in the 16th century. They built a cathedral inside the mosque.
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Climb the Bell Tower to see a bird’s-eye view of the Mezquita and its courtyard. The Courtyard of the Orange Trees is the world’s oldest continually planted Islamic garden.
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12. Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral, or the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, is one of the most famous sights in the city.
When you are in Seville, you need to visit Seville Cathedral. This Roman Catholic Cathedral is one of the most iconic symbols of Spain because it’s the largest Gothic church in the world. The work on this beautiful Christian cathedral began in the 15th century and took over a century to complete. After its completion, Seville Cathedral became the world’s largest cathedral. It surpassed the Hagia Sophia, which held the title for a thousand years. Today, it still remains the fourth-largest cathedral in the world.
The Seville Cathedral has the longest nave in Spain. It has 15 doors and 80 chapels and is a resting place of Christopher Columbus and his son Diego.
You are right to think that After the Reconquista, Seville became an important trading centre. That’s why King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella replaced the mosque that once stood here under Muslim rule. They built Seville Cathedral to show the city’s wealth, power, and influence. They also converted the minaret into the Giralda Bell Tower. Today, they both hold a UNESCO status.
13. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Did you know that back in the Middle Ages, Santiago de Compostela ranked as the third most important pilgrimage spot for Christians, right after Jerusalem and Rome? Quite fascinating, isn’t it? Every year, thousands of tourists come here because Santiago de Compostela is the main destination on the 790 km long Camino de Santiago route. Many people believe that walking this path causes miracles and heals illnesses.
Catholics walk hundreds of miles towards the Praza do Obradoiro Square to visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The main reason why they flock here is because this gorgeous cathedral with a UNESCO status is the burial place of St James the Great. You are right to think he was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus, and his remains rest inside the cathedral. This gorgeous cathedral is one of the only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus. Therefore, this Galician cathedral with Spanish Baroque design is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain.
14. Toledo Cathedral
Toledo Cathedral or Catedral Primada, as the locals call it.
If you find yourself in central Spain, visit UNESCO-listed Toledo. This charming hilltop city with historic walls is one of the oldest cities in Spain. Toledo is famous as a city of three cultures because the Romans, Jews, Moors and Christians have left a mark on the old town.
Toledo has countless churches, mosques and synagogues, but one that stands out is Toledo Cathedral. This gorgeous cathedral is one of the grandest cathedrals in Spain. It’s a symbol of the Catholic Church’s power in the country. Catedral Primada has magnificent proportions and mixes of architecture and design. It took almost three centuries to complete it. It has a stunning painting by El Greco, Caravaggio and also Raphael.
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Other famous Spanish landmarks
15. Medina Azahara
Just a few kilometres from the Mosque-cathedral of Cordoba lies the once-famous palatine city – Medina Azahara. Chances are that you haven’t heard about this beautiful landmark in Spain. But it is so important that UNESCO recognized its worth in 2018.
Medina Azahara tells the story of the Umayyad civilization and the development of Al-Andalus. Even though it is in ruins, it is a perfect example of urban planning. It is like a lesson in city planning – it shows how the architecture cleverly fits into the land.
The first caliph of Al-Andalus constructed this city in the 10th century. Medina Azahara was the symbol of his power.
Building this city took a decade, but changes continued for many more years. Sadly, this palace city has a short life. It vanished for over 1,000 years, just after 65 years when the Islamic State fell. The digging started in the early 20th century and still continues today. Now, you can only see about 10 % of what used to be the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba.
16. Roman Theatre in Merida
The Roman Theatre in Merida used to hold up to 6,000 citizens.
While Merida in Spain’s western region has many fine Roman monuments, the most famous is the Roman Theatre. This over 2,000-year-old monument is a Spanish cultural icon and also one of the 12 Treasures of Spain.
Did you know the Roman Theatre in Merida is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world? It is a part of the larger entertainment complex and also has a UNESCO status.
Nowadays, the Roman Theatre of Merida is one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in Spain. But it was not always like that. The locals could see only ‘’The Seven Chairs” for hundreds of years. These chairs turned out to be a part of the orchestra section. Today, the Roman Theatre of Merida again hosts performances of classical drama.
17. Montserrat
Montserrat earns its reputation as one of the most famous landmarks in Spain for several reasons. This unusual mountain range is more than a set of historic stones. It has rich cultural and religious significance and draws tourists and Catholic pilgrims to the monastery and the Montserrat Basilica.
For those unfamiliar, Montserrat is a sacred site, a symbol of Catalan identity and also a pilgrimage destination. Tourists flock here to touch the hand of the Black Madonna statue. Some think it was made in Jerusalem in the early days of the Church. But it’s more likely a wooden sculpture from the late 12th century. Many believe that the statue of the Black Madonna has healing powers.
But that is not the only reason to come here. This mountain range offers beautiful views of Catalonia and has multiple hiking trails. Therefore, visiting Montserrat in Spain is one of the best day trips from Barcelona.
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18. Altamira cave
Have you ever heard about Altamira Cave near the historic town of Santillana del Mar in northern Spain? Altamira Cave contains some of the world’s finest examples of prehistoric art. The drawings in the cave date back to the Paleolithic period when early humans lived in caves. They illustrate some of the earliest human art and depict animals, including bison, horses and also deer.
While the bulls painted on the ceiling are at least 14,000 years old, paintings in the other chambers are even older. Some illustrations are more than 34,000 years old.
As you can imagine, these drawings have outstanding archaeological value. The cave paintings in Altamira Cave are, in fact, some of the earliest examples of cave paintings found in Europe. They are very fragile, therefore, and only 5 people per week can access the cave. There is a waiting list of up to three years. Because public entry to the original cave is almost impossible, they have an on-site museum with an exact replica of the paintings.
19. Segovia Alcazar
The Alcazar of Segovia has been home to twenty-two kings.
Would you like to visit a fortress that inspired the iconic Cinderella Castle in the Walt Disney movie? If yes was your answer, add the Alcazar of Segovia to your Spain bucket list. This pretty castle on a rocky hill was a royal palace and a fortress for Christian monarchs. During its long history, it became a seat of parliament, state prison, Artillery College and also Military Academy.
The UNESCO-listed Alcazar of Segovia is, in fact, one of the most historical landmarks in Spain. Did you know the Alcazar of Segovia was the site of the last meeting between Christopher Columbus and King Ferdinand the Catholic before the explorer’s death? Isabel the Catholic also proclaimed herself queen of Castile in the 15th century in Segovia. So, if you are into history, fairy tales, or gorgeous views, get ready for a castle adventure!
20. Castillo de Colomares
If you’re a fan of fairy-tale-like castles, then Castillo de Colomares deserves a spot on your must-see list. This unusual castle in Benalmádena is a blend of history and fantasy. Castillo de Colomares is not an ordinary fortress from the Middle Ages. It’s a relatively modern creation, built in the 20th century as a tribute to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America.
What is unusual about this Colomares Monument is that Esteban Martin created it only with 2 local men. They built it by hand using brick, concrete and also stone. They also used techniques that would have been used in the Middle Ages.
As you stroll through its towers, you’ll find different architectural styles. Castillo de Colomares is the largest monument in the world to the explorer. This small yet captivating structure contains the three ships Columbus used in his journey. It also has the smallest church in the world and a mausoleum with a Gothic rose window. So, if you find yourself in the province of Malaga in the heart of Costa del Sol, don’t miss the chance to explore this attraction!
Famous Natural landmarks in Spain
21. Timanfaya National Park
Volcanic landscape covers a quarter of the island
If you want to see something unusual, visit the Timanfaya National Park. You can find it on the fourth largest of the Canary Islands – Lanzarote, just north of the Village of Yaiza. Why you should come here? Because Timanfaya National Park has a lunar-like landscape and pristine lava fields.
This Spanish National park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most famous parks in Spain. Its landscape is similar to the one on the Moon and also Mars. It is due to volcanic eruptions that lasted 6 years almost 300 years ago. The park got its name after only one active volcano – Timanfaya. And yes, you can’t roam freely around – you can only take a bus tour. An organised coach trip allows you to see the most beautiful park areas. You can even visit El Diablo restaurant, which uses geothermal heat for cooking. Alternatively, you can take a shorter 15-minute camel ride up to the volcanic slopes or book the hike on Termesana Route in advance.
22. El Teide
El Teide, surrounded by a wild volcanic landscape
It’s not surprising that El Teide is also on our list of the best symbols of Spain. El Teide is an active volcano and the highest peak in Spain (over 3,718 m). It’s part of the Teide National Park and is one of the most visited national parks in Spain and the world. It holds a UNESCO status and is also one of the 12 Treasures of Spain. You can find it on the largest of the Canary Islands – Tenerife.
The good news: this protected area has numerous roads open to both public and private transport. One of the highlights is an 8-minute cable car ride, which leaves you 160 m (525ft) short of Teide’s summit. But don’t forget, if you want to hike higher than La Rambleta station, ask for a special permit at the Parque Nacional Teide website.
23. Caminito del Rey
If you find yourself in Malaga and are not afraid of heights, visit the Caminito del Rey. The Camino del Rey, or the King’s Pathway in English, was once one of the most dangerous paths in the world. But don’t worry, thanks to the renovations it is perfectly safe now for adventurous people like you.
The locals rebuilt the new walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge just above the previous path. Since then, the King’s Little Path has become a well-loved attraction and one of the most famous natural landmarks in Spain. This aerial path with the hanging bridge offers beautiful views from over 100 meters above the ground.
Now you know what are the most famous landmarks in Spain!
What are your favourite Spanish monuments? Did we miss anything? Please let us know in the comments below. If you like our post about the famous landmarks in Spain, save it also to Pinterest.
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