The most popular attraction in each Spanish province

Discover the most popular tourist attraction in each Spanish province.

Spain has countless places of interest, from fantastic cathedrals to ancient ruins and national parks of enormous natural and scenic value. But what is the most popular attraction in each region?

With attractions in Spain largely reopened, Musement has developed a map with the most popular monument and attraction in each Spanish province. To select the 52 most popular attractions (one for each province and autonomous city), more than 4,500 places of interest were considered throughout the country. The number of Google reviews were analysed and the attraction with the highest number of reviews was selected as the most popular.

Take a look at the map to discover which is the most popular attraction in each province and find ideas for your next getaway!

Andalusia

Alhambra (Granada), 80,644 reviews: the ancient Andalusian palatial city is one of the most spectacular monuments, not only in Andalusia, but in all of Europe. It is necessary to plan your visit in advance since it has many points of interest. See the Nasrid Palaces, ordered to be built by the sultans themselves. Here you will also find the Palace of the Lions, famous for its impressive courtyard. The Generalife, the Alcazaba and the Palace of Charles V are also key highlights.
Plaza de España (Seville), 98,227 reviews: the masterpiece of the architect Aníbal González is one of the most imposing squares in the country. Covering more than 50,000 square metres, the canal and its bridges stand out, as well as the tiled alcoves built around the plaza, which represent the Spanish provinces.
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Cordova), 22,403 reviews: the fortress, declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1931 and home to the Catholic Monarchs for more than eight years, is a sample of the architectural evolution of the city. Did you know that it was in one of its four towers that Christopher Columbus requested financial aid for his great journey in 1486?
Doñana National Park (Huelva), 10,016 reviews: this natural park, which extends through the provinces of Seville, Cádiz and Huelva, is the most popular attraction in the latter. Doñana is a true paradise for nature lovers. With more than 54,000 hectares, visitors can explore various ecosystems, such as sand dunes, marshes, streams and beaches, as well as more than 1,300 catalogued plant species and 400 different species of birds.
Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas Natural Park (Jaén), 9,580 reviews: with more than 200,000 hectares, the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas is the largest protected area in Spain. Rugged mountain peaks alternate with deep valleys and lush forests. It is also the birthplace of the Guadalquivir River. Lovers of active tourism can practice numerous outdoor activities: from hiking routes such as the Barbosa River, to horseback riding or the possibility of climbing or canyoning, among many other options.
Sierra Nevada National Park (Almería), 14,721 reviews: like Doñana, this national park also spans several provinces, specifically Granada and Almería, being the latter’s most popular attraction. To discover the beauty and variety of landscapes, there is nothing better than going hiking. A good option is the Ubeire trail, a 5km route through the Mediterranean mountains.
Puente Nuevo (Malaga), 23,750 reviews: Ronda’s New Bridge is undoubtedly one of the greatest symbols of the city. Construction of this 98-metre-high masterpiece began in 1751 and lasted for more than 40 years. The bridge, which crosses the Tajo de Ronda, made it possible to connect the modern neighbourhood with the old neighbourhood, also facilitating the urban expansion of the town.
Cádiz Cathedral (Cádiz), 16,574 reviews: although construction of the cathedral began in 1772, the temple was consecrated 116 years later. The passing of the years and the preferences of the different architects who worked on the project explain the mixture of styles that can be appreciated today (Baroque and Neoclassical).

Recommended experiences in Andalusia:

Aragon

Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park (Huesca), 8,811 reviews: with more than 15,000 hectares over four valleys, the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is located in the heart of the Pyrenees and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. The Ordesa Valley is probably the most visited, and one of the most popular hiking routes is the one that reaches the Cola de Caballo waterfall. The Añisclo Canyon, the Pineta balcony or the Escuaín Gorges are some of the most emblematic places in the park.
Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar (Zaragoza), 27,630 reviews: it is said that this basilica was built around the pillar on which the Virgin Mary leaned when she appeared to the Apostle Santiago on the banks of the Ebro. The current temple, built between the 17th and 18th centuries, is an authentic Baroque jewel and, in addition, two of its domes were painted by Francisco de Goya himself.
Plaza del Torico (Teruel), 10 211 reviews: the small statue of a torico (little bull) located on the column of the fountain is an emblem in the city of Teruel. In this busy and lively square, the modernist-style buildings by the architect Pau Monguió Segura also stand out.

Asturias

Sanctuary of Covadonga, 19,318 reviews: a few kilometres from Cangas de Onís, at the gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park, we find the Santa Cueva. Here you will find the Virgin of Covadonga, also known as the “Santina”, and the tombs of King Pelayo and King Alfonso I. Besides the cave, it is also worth visiting the neo-Romanesque style basilica, the museum and the bell, which weighs a monumental 4,000 kg.

Canary Islands

Jameos del Agua (Las Palmas), 22 617 reviews: César Manrique transformed the interior of a volcanic tunnel caused by the eruptions of the Corona Volcano into a unique work, in which nature and art complement each other perfectly. Find out for yourself in Lanzarote!
Loro Parque (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), 51,920 reviews: initially conceived as a parrot paradise, Loro Parque has now become one of the most visited places in the Canary Islands. Thanks to the quality of its facilities and its commitment to the environment, it is considered one of the best zoos in the world.

Recommended experience in the Canary Islands: Lanzarote Volcanoes & Caves Tour

Jameos del Agua in Las Palmas, Canary Islands

Cantabria

Gaudí’s El Capricho, 18,725 reviews: Villa Quijano, better known as El Capricho, is located in Comillas and is one of the few works by Gaudí outside of Catalonia. The building belongs to the orientalist period of the modernist architect, hence the predominate Mudejar motifs. One of the highlights of the facade is its famous sunflowers.

Castile and Leon

Plaza Mayor (Salamanca), 46,415 reviews: construction of the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, designed in the Baroque style by the architect Alberto Churriguera, began in 1729. Today, it is one of the emblems of the city and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful plazas in Spain.
León Cathedral (León), 22,762 reviews: affectionately nicknamed the “the house of light” in reference to its beauty, the cathedral was built on ancient Roman baths. The 737 stained glass windows made between the 13th and 20th centuries fill the French Gothic church with light and colour.
Campo Grande (Valladolid), 9265 reviews: known in the past as Field of Truth and Field of Mars, today it is the largest urban park in Valladolid. Go to the pond and admire the small waterfall or enjoy a boat ride. And of course, marvel at the many peacocks that call the park home.
Walls of Ávila (Ávila), 7,498 reviews: Ávila’s walled enclosure stretches for 2.5 kilometres and has 87 towers and 9 gates. It is one of the best-preserved walls in the world and it is possible to walk upon the walls for roughly half of the circumference. If you can’t visit all of it, then don’t miss the Puerta del Alcázar or the Cathedral.
Burgos Cathedral (Burgos), 20,421 reviews: although the design of the main facade reminds us of French Gothic architecture, inside we find elements of the Baroque or Renaissance. The spires, the dome and the Chapel del Constable are some of its main points of interest.
Montaña Palentina Natural Park (Palencia), 2,128 reviews: this natural park, where steep peaks alternate with valleys and meadows, is characterized by its fauna diversity, including endangered species such as the brown bear. But, in addition to the great variety of fauna and flora, there are also some of the most important examples of Romanesque art in the country.
Sanabria Lake and Sierras Segundo and Porto Natural Park (Zamora), 7,470 reviews: one of the most popular places in the natural park is Lake Sanabria, whose origin dates back to one of the last Pleistocene glaciations. This protected area is a true paradise for sports lovers, since they can practice endless activities, from hiking and cycling to skiing or sailing, among many others.
Alameda de Cervantes (Soria), 5,516 reviews: the name of the park is a tribute to the famous Spanish playwright, although many also know it as La Dehesa. Do not miss the Tree of Music and its beautiful temple, the rose garden, the hermitage of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad or the top of the Dehesa.
Aqueduct of Segovia (Segovia), 62,407 reviews: its more than 20,000 stone blocks joined together without any type of mass or cement have been standing since the 1st century, making it a true work of engineering and highlights the importance of the balance of forces. Come to the Plaza del Azoguejo and admire it up close!

Castilla la Mancha

Toledo Cathedral (Toledo), 19,890 reviews: the Cathedral of Santa María de Toledo is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Spain. Explore the interior and see the rose windows, ribbed vaults and pointed arches, and admire works by great artists, such as El Greco, Caravaggio or Tiziano.
Peñarroya Castle (Ciudad Real), 4,002 reviews: the fortress is located on a cliff 12 kilometres from Argamasilla de Alba. Inside, it is worth highlighting the keep, the parade ground and the 17th century hermitage, where you can still admire a Churrigueresque altarpiece.
Guadalajara Zoo (Guadalajara), 3,600 reviews: Opened in 1985, its extensive facilities are home to numerous animal species from all continents, including large mammals such as the boreal lynx and the brown bear.
Hanging Houses (Cuenca), 7,209 reviews: these buildings of popular Gothic architecture located on the Hoz del Huécar are, without a doubt, one of the main symbols of Castilla-La Mancha. The House of the Mermaid and the Houses of the Kings are the three constructions that can still be visited, and one of them houses the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art.
Calares del Mundo and Sima Natural Park (Albacete), 4,828 reviews: this protected area is famous for its incredible hydrogeological formations and rich flora. Although it is full of places of interest, if we had to say one, it would be the Cueva de los Chorros.

Catalonia

La Seu Vella (Lleida), 5,309 reviews:also known as the Old Cathedral of Lleida, the enormous Romanesque cathedral is located on top of a hill (Turó de Lleida). Thanks to this privileged location, it is possible to enjoy unbeatable views of the city from the windows of its huge cloister. Its enormous bell tower also stands out, in which 2 of the 7 bells are in the Gothic style. Do not leave without visiting the Castillo del Rey, which is part of the same monumental complex of the cathedral.
Sagrada Familia (Barcelona), 155,098 reviews: Gaudí’s unfinished work needs no introduction. Before the pandemic, this architectural gem was one of the most visited monuments in the world. The Nativity façade, the impressive columnar “forest” inside, and the views from the towers are just some of its many charms.
Dalí Theatre and Museum (Girona), 26,951 reviews: the museum is housed in a spectacular pink building with eggs on the roof, designed by Dalí himself. There are more than 1,000 pieces inside awaiting us to discover and delve into the work of the great surrealist artist.
PortAventura World (Tarragona), 69,841 reviews: the three PortAventura World theme parks (PortAventura Park, Ferrari Land and Caribe Aquatic Park) are synonymous with fun. “Dragon Khan”, “Red Force” or “King Khajuna” are just some of the many exciting attractions that await you at the famous leisure complex.

Recommended experience in Catalonia: Sagrada Familia tickets and small-group tour

Community of Madrid

Retiro Park, 130,592 reviews: Buen Retiro Park is one of the most visited places by both locals and tourists who come to spend a few days in the capital of Spain. Featuring beautiful gardens, such as the Rosaleda rose garden, the emblematic Glass Palace (which is also one of the headquarters of the Reina Sofía Museum) or the lake, are some of its busiest corners.

Recommended experience in Madrid: Retiro Park private tour with local guide

Valencian Community

Peñíscola Castle (Castellón), 38,850 reviews: the emblematic fortress is located in the highest area of the city of Peñíscola, about 60 metres above sea level. Although it was ordered to be built by the Templars, some changes were made by Pope Benedict XIII when he made it his papal residence in 1411.
City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia), 86,985 reviews: located in the old Turia riverbed, the City of Arts and Sciences, with its innovative design and wide cultural and leisure offer, is one of the main attractions of the Valencian Community. The Oceanographic and the Principe Felipe Science Museum are two essential stops.
Santa Bárbara Castle (Alicante), 23,873 reviews: The castle of Santa Bárbara is located on Mount Benacantil, in the city of Alicante. Although everything indicates that its construction dates back to the 9th century, much of the architecture which can still be seen today is the result of the reform carried out by Felipe II in the 16th century. Due to its location, the views of the city are truly wonderful.

Estremadura

Roman Theatre of Mérida (Badajoz), 22,133 reviews: the theatre is part of the archaeological complex of Mérida, which is one of the most important in Spain. Marco Agrippa promoted its construction approximately in the year 15 or 16 B.C.E. and, once completed, it had the capacity to hold up to 6,000 spectators. The current facade was made during the renovations that took place at the end of the 1st century and the beginning of the 2nd century.
Plaza Mayor de Trujillo (Cáceres), 8,908 reviews: in addition to being the centre of Trujillo, the square is famous for the architectural beauty of its buildings, such as the Palace of the Dukes of San Carlos, the Palace of the Marqueses of Piedras Albas or the Palace of the Conquest. There is also the equestrian statue of Francisco Pizarro.

Roman Theatre of Mérida in Badajoz, Extremadura

Galicia

Hórreos de Combarro (Pontevedra), 8,782 reviews: Combarro is one of the most charming coastal towns in Galicia. Its granaries, located on the seashore, attract thousands of visitors eager to see these constructions so typical of Galician popular architecture up close.
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (La Coruña), 42,573 reviews: the impressive facade of the Obradoiro of the Cathedral of Santiago welcomes pilgrims who, since the Middle Ages, have come to Compostela. Whether you decide to do the Camino de Santiago or not, visiting the cathedral is always a good idea. The Pórtico de la Gloria and the enormous “Botafumeiro” never disappoint.
Roman wall of Lugo (Lugo), 7696 reviews: the walls, built in the second century, still have 71 of the 85 original towers. Thanks to its perfect state of preservation, this architectural marvel that extends for more than 2 kilometres, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000.
Sil Canyon (Orense), 6649 reviews: The Sil Canyon extends over several territories in the provinces of Orense and Lugo. It is a gorge excavated by the fluvial erosion of the Sil river before flowing into the Minho. Nowadays, it can be travelled by catamaran, an excellent option to discover the canyon and see the vineyards that grow on its slopes.

Balearic Islands

Palma Cathedral, 32,705 reviews: The Mediterranean Gothic-style cathedral is located in the historic centre of Palma and is part of the city’s mythical silhouette. Its huge rose window (Ojo del Gótico) and the Trinity Chapel will not leave you indifferent.

Recommended experiences in the Balearic Islands:
TUI Pass – Mallorca Family Pass
TUI Pass – The Best of Mallorca

La Rioja

Co-Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda, 4,164 reviews: the church, located in the old town of Logroño, was declared a co-cathedral in 1959. One of its most striking aspects are the two towers, known as ‘the twins’, although one of them is slightly higher than the other. There is a small canvas of the Crucifixion attributed to Michelangelo Buonarroti himself behind the main altarpiece.

Navarre

Royal Palace of Olite, 12,402 reviews: the monumental palace dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. The main architect of its construction was King Carlos III “El Noble”, who also made it one of the headquarters of the Kingdom of Navarra. Currently, the fortress is divided into three zones: the Old Palace (which is now a Parador de Turismo hotel), the Chapel of San Jorge and the New Palace.

Basque Country

Playa de la Concha (Guipúzcoa), 19,870 reviews: La Concha beach is one of the symbols of San Sebastián and one of the best rated urban beaches in Europe. From the sandy beach, which stretches for 1.3 km, you can also see the island of Santa Clara and the Urgull and Igeldo mountains.
Guggenheim Museum (Vizcaya), 48,713 reviews: the Guggenheim Museum has 20 galleries spread over three floors. Admire works from numerous genres including pop art, minimalism, abstract expressionism, and conceptual art from noteworthy artists such as Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly and James Rosenquist. The spectacular deconstructivism-style building is a spectacle in itself.
La Florida Park (Álava), 4914 reviews: Created in 1820 in the style of French romantic gardens, La Florida Park is an essential stop in Vitoria. Go through the botanical itinerary of the park and discover up to 42 different species of trees and shrubs. Also don’t miss the statues of the Gothic kings or the tree of love.

Murcia

Roman Theatre of Cartagena, 11,646 reviews: the Roman Theatre of Cartagena, whose construction began in the 1st century BCE, was hidden for centuries until it was discovered by chance in 1988. Subsequent excavation campaigns managed to bring this marvel from Roman times to light. The cavea, excavated in the rock of Cerro de la Concepción itself, had a capacity for about 7,000 spectators and the stage was 43 metres long.

Autonomous City of Ceuta

House of the Dragons, 1,320 reviews: This historical building designed by the Valencian architect Cortina Pérez owes its name to the huge sculptures that decorate its roof. Go to the corner of Camoens and Millan Astray streets and admire its spectacular design.

Autonomous City of Melilla

Hernández Park, 966 Reviews: located in the Modernista Ensanche district of the city, Hernández Park is a must-see in Melilla. In addition to having numerous botanical species, the park houses a good number of sculptures dedicated to well-known writers and personalities such as Lope de Vega or Fernando Arrabal.

Discover Spain’s most popular sights with our experiences:

*Methodology: to carry out the study, more than 4500 points of interest were taken into consideration throughout the country (source: https://www.google.com/travel/things-to-do). To determine the most popular attraction in each province, the number of Google reviews were analysed. The attraction with the highest number of reviews in each province was considered the most popular. May 2021 data.

Note: attractions that are part of various provinces were included. In the infographic these attractions are shown in the province (s) in which it (s) is the most popular option.