Explore Spain Like a Local
As one of the most-visited countries in the world, Spain drew in more than 83 million visitors in 2019. While international visitors contribute significantly to Spain’s tourism, citizens of Spain travel avidly throughout their own country. According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute, around 93% of residents traveled within Spain in the first 3 months of 2022.
From the best restaurants and beaches to places to celebrate public holidays, here are some destinations Spanish residents are known to visit.
Southern Spain
Popular among locals for its white sandy beaches, crystal water, and locally made sherry, the province of Cadiz is part of Andalucia, an autonomous community most visited by Spaniards.
Those traveling to the Cadiz province can visit Baelo Claudia, the remains of an ancient Roman town next to the beach. Cadiz is also a great place to get fresh seafood. The restaurant Casa Bigote is known for its prawns, and Taberna de el Campero for its bluefin tuna.
If travelers are willing to wade through crowds in the summer, Javea is another beautiful town worth a visit. In fact, it is the landscape of Javea that inspired the paintings of Joaquin Sorolla, famous 19th century Spanish artist. Montgo di Bongo is a chiringuito, or beach bar, right on the sand where you can enjoy paella next to the sea.
Northern Spain
On Spain’s northeast coast is Catalonia’s Costa Brava region. Known for its beautiful ‘calas’, or coves, Costa Brava is the perfect place to enjoy some time in the sun. It is worth visiting the chiringuitos for a bite to eat. Costa Brava has fantastic gastronomy that uses local ingredients from the countryside.
Northern Spain is also a great place to taste the country’s wine, as it is home to Ribera del Duero and La Rioja, two of Spain’s most prominent vineyards.
Another great place to visit in the summer is the Asturias region, which is known for its mountains, rugged coast, and medieval architecture. The Playa de Toro beach in Llanes is a favourite among locals.
Barcelona
Of course, Barcelona is a popular destination for visitors from overseas. With its surrounding mountains, sea, and old Roman quarter, it is a city with both natural beauty and historical monuments. It is possible to cover much of the city on foot, and its impressive architecture is essentially a free, open-air museum. Walking along the cobbled streets, you will find the area is rich with stories. For example, the Gothic Quarter is where the remains of the Roman Temple of Augustus rest. If you are looking for great views of the city, the National Museum of Catalan Art has a rooftop terrace.
While fantastic to visit any time of year, Barcelona is best experienced on national holidays. During the Sant Jordi festival, bakeries are filled with commemorative cakes and pastries. La Colmena is one such pastry shop. Founded around 1849, La Colmena is in the Gothic Quarter.
Another holiday celebrated in Barcelona is the Revetlla de Sant Joan, which is observed on midsummer’s eve in June. To commemorate the day, people partake in bonfires and consume a bread-style cake made with candied fruit.
Madrid
If you’re looking for a city experience, Madrid is a lively city with much to do and see. Matadero Madrid is an arts development on the banks of the River Manzanares. The Thyssen and Del Prado museums or El Corral de la Moreria’s authentic flamenco show are great ways to explore Madrid’s vibrancy.
One of the most beautiful views of the city can be found at the Jardines de Sabatini boutique hotel. The roof terrace overlooks the Royal Palace.
Traveling is a luxury afforded to those who have the time and money to do so. Whether it is diversifying your portfolio, devising a retirement strategy, creating a will, or anything in between, Private Client Consultancy is committed to helping you plan for your future so that you can enjoy the finer things in life. Contact a Wealth Manager today to discuss how we can tailor a plan to suit your needs.
