What to do in Spain?!
Málaga
Málaga is the largest city in Andalucía and worth a visit if you have half a day spare or even just for a coffee and a wander. We recommend wandering around Calle Larios (dont forget a visit to Spanish Zara), taking a look in the Cathedral and enjoying Tapas at El Pimpi or Lateral.
Sevilla
A two hour drive inland from Málaga, known as the 'frying page of Spain', Sevilla is a beautiful old Spanish city worth spending a night in if you have the time. Wander around the old streets, go to a Flamenco show and try Restaurante El Paseíllo for lunch or dinner. Top tip: Download the app 'Rick Steves Audio Europe' and do the walking tour of Sevilla.
Cádiz
The region of Cadiz is known for beautiful long sandy beaches, historic architecture, flamenco and delicious seafood. We recommend visiting the beaches around Tarifa and Zahara de los Atunes. We recommend the city of Cadiz, the oldest city in Western Europe, with a beautiful cathedral by the beach. In addition, Jerez de la Frontera is the home of sherry, and is also known for its Moorish architecture, flamenco and dancing horses.
Granada
A fabulous small, walkable city great for a night or two. The Alhambra is widely considered an eighth wonder of the world- beautiful Islamic architecture and historical significance as Spain's last Muslim stronghold. You must book tickets months in advance, bear that mind!
Madrid
The capital of Spain and the Ruckers' old home, Madrid has so much to offer. Eat at the oldest restaurant in the world, El Botín -ask for a table in the basement (el sotoano), have Tapas in Plaza Santa Ana, bar hop the Sherry bars on Calle Echegaray, wander around Retiro park and visit the Palacio Real (Royal Palace). Kanon recommends finding a free walking tour as Madrid is rich with history.
Mallorca
Coming to Spain for a chunk of time? The beautiful beaches of Mallorca are so worth a visit. You can't go far wrong in Mallorca but we love the East coast: Cala D'Or, Cala del Moro Cala Llombards and Cala Santanyi to name a few. In land, Deia and Soller are beautiful and Palma is a lovely main city worth a day trip.
Costa Brava
Shhhhhh! Don't tell the other Aussies, but this is the new Mallorca. Only 1.5 hour drive from Barcelona, Costa Brava is true paradise. The beaches of Cala Sa Tuna, Aigua Blava, Calella de Palafrugell and Sa Riera are stunning. Cadaqués and Begur are great bases. Eat Pescado à la sal at Aigua Blava Hotel. Other favourite restaurants from our friend Annie Morley are Toc al Mar, Batalla, La Pizzeta in Begur, La Galera in Palamos and Casa Anita in Cadaqués for local food: there's no menu, you eat what they have and it’s usually fresh fish.
Barcelona
Ignore Tripadvisor: our friends and Barcelona locals Annie and Alfons recommend eating at Pez Vela on the beach for fresh fish or paella, Vinitus for Tapas: no reservations so show up early and queue, Molino del Pez, La Terraza de la Duquesa: rooftop terrace with views of the port for drinks. Sagrada Familia is a must as well as The Dancing Fountains de Montjuic in the evening, Passeig de Gracia - casa Batllo, La Rambla (La Boqueria food market), Parc Güell, Strolling around the Gothic Corner (Cathedral, Palau de la música), Barceloneta Beach and Parc de la Cuitadella.
