The Romans conquered Spain in the first century B.C. Christianity was introduced to Spain during the Roman Empire. The Vandals and Visigoths, European Germanic groups, came to Spain after the Romans. The Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula took place when Spain was invaded by Muslims from Africa in 711. The Arabs and Berbers who ruled Spain encouraged trade and introduced new crops and irrigation systems. The era also saw advancement in philosophy, medicine, and mathematics, especially during the 10th century. This was known as the Islamic Golden Age in Spain.

The Reconquista ended in 1492 when the Christian kingdoms of Spain conquered Granada. The country gained more power and influence following the discovery of silver in the Americas. Spain lost land and power during the Napoleonic Wars, which lasted from 1803 to 1815. The Spanish Civil War, which lasted from 1936 to 1939, killed over 500,000 people. Spain became a part of the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1986.

• Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world.
• The world’s oldest restaurant, Casa Botín, is in Spain.
• Spain hosts the largest tomato fight in the world.
• La Sagrada Familia, one of the most famous landmarks of Spain, is the world’s largest unfinished Catholic church.
• Spain’s political regime is a parliamentary monarchy.
• The national anthem of Spain has no official lyrics.
• Spain is home to over 1,000 islands.
• The Spanish tooth fairy is a mouse known as Ratoncito Pérez.
• Spain has the 5th most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world.
• Spain has the world’s highest number of Blue Flag beaches.
• Spain is among the world’s top 10 countries regarding life expectancy.
• Spain is the world’s largest producer of olive oil.
• The country has the third longest coastline in Europe.
• Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes, considered the world’s first modern novel, was written in Spanish.
• Spain has the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, the Seville Cathedral.
• Two of the world’s biggest football clubs, namely Real Madrid and Barcelona, are based in Spain.
• Spain is one of the largest producers of saffron in the world.
• Public nudity has been legal in Spain since 1988.

• Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Spain, and the application process can take up to 15 days from the day it is submitted.
• Tipping is not an obligation in Spain. However, if you’re pleased with the services offered, you can leave a tip of about 10%.
• Spain is renowned for its beaches and sun, but the weather varies significantly. Therefore, pack your clothes according to the season and the region you’re travelling to.
• Tap water is generally safe in Spain, but consumption should be avoided in rural areas.
• Although Uber is available in Spain, it’s not operational in all the cities, and there are easier ways to travel around.
• Renting a car in Spain is pretty easy. Just bring the right documents and book your car in advance.
• The high speed trains in Spain are a great way to travel around the country.
• They are affordable as well if you make your bookings in advance.
• If you’re uncomfortable amidst high temperatures, avoid visiting Spain during the summer.
• Try to learn the basic Spanish phrases to interact with the locals if necessary.
• Book a Renfe Spain Pass to pre-pay for your train trips in advance.
• Shops are usually closed from 1 pm to 3 pm or 2 pm to 5 pm, depending on the region you are visiting.

There are many reasons why Spain should be on your must-visit list. Here’s why you need to book our Spain tour packages right away:

Although Spain is known for its beaches, several other elements add to the beauty of the country’s natural landscapes. From serene lakes and lush meadows to deep gorges and rugged mountains, Spain will always amaze you with its visual beauty.

Be it the Picos de Europa, the Pyrenees, or Mount Teide in the Canary Islands, nature lovers are sure to be satisfied with their trip to Spain. If you’re a water baby, you’re in for an absolute treat, as the country has almost 8,000 km of coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Owing to Spain’s varied geography, tourists have plenty of opportunities to participate in outdoor activities of all kinds. Mountainous regions such as the Sierra Nevada and the Pyrenees enable skiing and hiking. The country is also home to numerous nature reserves and national parks where you can opt for birdwatching, nature walks, horseback riding, and so on.

One of the primary reasons to avail of our Spain tour packages is to taste the country’s delectable cuisine. Whether it’s seafood, the Iberico ham, or fresh fruits and vegetables, every day of your trip will be like a new adventure for your tastebuds. The Mediterranean diet is an integral part of Spanish cuisine, making the country’s food both delicious and healthy. The prestigious wines and world-renowned olive oil are reasons for travellers to taste the eclectic Spanish cuisine.

Spain’s fascinating history is well documented and preserved in its museums and buildings. The country’s diverse heritage is reflected in its architectural brilliance and medieval castles.

For example, the ancient Roman city of Merida is home to well-preserved ruins, including a Roman bridge and an amphitheatre. The Alhambra in Granada stands as a proud example of Moorish architecture, and then there is Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, known for its modernist architecture.

In Spanish, a fiesta means a feast, party, festival, or celebration, and when it comes to festivals, Spain is universally renowned for its vibrant and dazzling fiestas. When you visit the country with our Spain tour packages, there is a high chance you will come across colourful parades, eye-catching costumes, music, dance performances, and fireworks. Some of the most popular festivals that Spain hosts are La Tomatina, San Fermin, Las Fallas de Valencia, and Fiesta de San Isidro.

Did you know that Spain has about 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites? As of 2024, it has the world’s fifth-most UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some structures on that list include the Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, the Royal Alcazar of Seville, the Cave of Altamira, and the Alhambra.

Whether you’re a romantic at heart, an adventure seeker, or culture lover, Barcelona has something for every kind of traveller. We recommend tourists set aside at least a week to explore all the architectural marvels in Barcelona. The Ciutat Vella, or Old City, is renowned for its narrow streets and alleys filled with nightclubs, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t forget to check out all the masterpieces of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi that Barcelona is home to.

The must-see attractions in Barcelona are Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, Magic Fountain of Montjuic, and Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar.

In addition to being the capital of Spain, Madrid is the largest city in the country and the hub of international business. Walking around Madrid, you can experience a bullfight, a flamenco dance performance, or a football match.

Madrid has the Golden Triangle of Art and is brimming with cultural landmarks and an enchanting vibrancy. This means that the city hosts three famous museums: the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Museo Nacional del Prado, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Other spots you should visit in Madrid include Plaza Mayor, El Retiro Park, Royal Palace of Madrid, and Temple of Debod.

Seville’s culture has Christian, Islamic, and Jewish influences. Each religion shows its presence in the city’s old neighbourhoods, minarets, and church facades. Be sure to visit the palaces, gardens, and parks that Seville plays host to while also enjoying the sunshine and laidback lifestyle of the city. These spots signify Seville’s architectural richness and complex history.

As you go around the city, you will see an impromptu guitar performance in a plaza or people having tapas in a streetside café. When you’re in Seville, don’t forget to visit the Royal Alcazar of Seville, Plaza de Espana, Catedral de Sevilla, La Giralda, Parque de Maria Luisa, and Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla.

Tucked away in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range is the city of Granada. It’s renowned for its medieval architecture, Moorish history, and street art, and because of its layered history, the city has an aura of mystery. There are churches in Granada that were once mosques, bakeries that used to be bath houses, and eateries that used to serve tea instead of tapas.

The most popular tourist attractions in Granada are the Alhambra, Mirador de San Nicolas, Generalife, Royal Chapel of Granada, Basílica de San Juan de Dios, Parque de las Ciencias, and Catedral de Granada.

If you’re looking for Mediterranean beaches in Spain, Valencia is the city you should visit. The historic centre of Valencia, which is a mixture of lively markets, historical spots, and rich cultural landmarks, is among the most interestingly diverse places you will visit in Spain. The Mercado Central or Central Market is the largest indoor fresh produce market in Europe, where travellers can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, meats, nuts, spices, and seafood.

While exploring Valencia, remember to visit the Oceanografic, La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia, Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia, Bioparc Valencia, and Jardin del Turia.

Spain’s climate is relatively mild, with mostly dry weather throughout the year. The best times to visit Spain are usually spring and autumn. However, when deciding when to book our Spain tour packages, it’s important to know about the diverse weather conditions Spain offers its visitors.

The summer season is usually quite hot, especially in the southern region and the Balearic Islands. This is when travellers prefer to head to the beach resorts to enjoy the sun and the water. To avoid the heat, you should head towards the northern regions during the summer. The peak season in Spain is from March to May. While the shoulder season is during August, the low season is during January and February. Let’s look at what each season in Spain is like so you can decide when to reserve our Spain tour packages accordingly.

During the spring season, the temperature in Spain oscillates between 9 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius. The weather remains comfortably warm, allowing the tourists to explore the beaches of Spain. The temperatures can be a bit unpredictable at this time, so remember to pack some warm clothes in your luggage. Getting some wet weather gear, scarves, sweaters, sturdy shoes, and a light jacket is also a good idea.

Since this is the high season in Spain, flight prices can be high, so we advise you to book our Spain tour packages as soon as possible. Festivals you could encounter during this period include the Seville April Fair, Courtyards Festival of Cordoba, and Feria del Caballo.

The temperature in Spain during the summer season remains between 18 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius. Despite the hot and humid weather, Spain is pretty crowded at this time, mainly due to the festivals and the fact that it’s an excellent time to hit the beaches. In certain parts of the country, summer is the high season, such as in the Balearic Islands and mainland Spain.

Make sure to pack some linen clothes during the summer season in Spain, as they are breathable and comfortable. Carry the right kind of footwear and plenty of sunscreen. Sunglasses and hats are also a must, especially if you plan on visiting the beaches in the country. The festivals that take place during this season include the Battle of Wine, Feast of San Pedro, and La Tomatina.

During the autumn season, the temperature in Spain ranges from 17 degrees Celsius to 24 degrees Celsius. The weather is perfect for sightseeing as it’s neither hot nor cold. You could experience sudden rainfall, though. Visiting the coastal regions of Spain is a good idea during this period, with the entire country embracing the colours of fall. The accommodations are reasonably priced during the autumn season.

Fall in Spain starts by being warm and gets progressively cooler as the season progresses. If you visit the country towards the end of autumn, remember to carry warm clothes, such as scarves, jackets, etc. Remember to book our Spain tour packages early since many tourists like to visit Spain now. The festivals hosted in the country in autumn are San Mateo Festival and La Merce Festival. There is also the festival of Bienal de Flamenco, which takes place in Seville every two years during the fall.

The cold in Spain’s winter season is usually manageable, fluctuating between 6 and 16 degrees Celsius. The country doesn’t get as cold as the other regions of Europe. Many of the beaches remain closed in Spain during this season. However, if you wish to explore the country while the crowd is minimal and the flight tickets and hotels are more affordable, you might consider visiting now.

Certain areas of Spain could get cold, and rainfall is also possible. So, remember to pack warm clothes and an umbrella. The winter festivals you can enjoy in Spain are Santos Inocentes, Three Kings’ Day, and Tamborrada.

With our Spain tour packages, you can visit some of the most famous tourist attractions in the country. Keep reading to know more about the places to visit in Spain with your family and the adventurous activities to participate in:

The La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is the world’s largest unfinished Catholic church. The construction of this Roman Catholic minor basilica started in 1882, and it was designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. Initially, the work for the church was taken on by the Spanish architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. After he resigned, the responsibility was shifted to Antoni Gaudi, who transformed the vision of the project with his architectural and engineering abilities. He devoted the rest of his life to finishing the structure and was buried in the church’s crypt.

The Spanish Civil War halted the construction of the Sagrada Familia in 1936. The remaining work on the church is expected to be completed by 2026, the centennial of Antoni Gaudi’s death.

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family and is located in downtown Madrid. The palace is used for state functions, and certain parts of it are open to the public when it is not in use.

The ground on which the structure stands was initially occupied by an Islamic fortress from the 9th century, which was built to protect Toledo. In 1561, King Philip II of Spain moved the royal court to its current location. In 1734, the building burned down, after which King Philip V had a new palace built in its place. To reduce the risk of fire, stone and brick were used to make the structure instead of wood.

The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the finest symbols of Romanesque architecture in Spain and a vital part of the Santiago de Compostela World Heritage Site in Galicia, Spain. The cathedral is known to be the burial place of Saint James the Great, one of the apostles of Christ. It is also among the few remaining churches in the world that were built over an apostle’s tomb. The cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao displays contemporary and modern art. It was designed by Frank O. Gehry, a well-known Canadian-American architect, as a collaboration between the Basque regional administration of northwestern Spain and the Guggenheim Foundation.

Popular for being one of the vital pieces of 20th century architecture, the structure is spread over 24,000 square metres. It’s one of the largest museums in the country and was inaugurated by King Juan Carlos I of Spain in October 1997.

The Plaza Mayor is situated in a prime location, namely in the heart of Madrid. King Philip III started building it in the 17th century. A bronze equestrian statue of him can be found in the middle of the square. Lined with arches and pillars, it has a rectangular shape and was officially inaugurated in 1620.

Spread over an area of 12,000 square metres, Plaza Mayor has been used for various kinds of public events over time. These include theatrical productions, executions, trials, processions, fiestas, and bullfights. Two of the most notable buildings on Plaza Mayor include Casa de la Carniceria and Casa de la Panaderia.

The Alhambra is a palace and fortress in the city of Granada, Spain. It is among the most celebrated examples of Islamic architecture. The palace’s name means ‘the red’ in Arabic, possibly signifying the reddish colour of the rammed earth used to build its outer walls.

The structure was built between 1238 and 1358 during the rule of Ibn al-Aḥmar, who founded the Naṣrid dynasty. After the Moors were expelled from Spain in 1492, most of the interiors were removed, and the furniture was ruined as well. Some portions of it were rebuilt by Charles V in the Renaissance style. He destroyed a part of it so that Pedro Machuca, the Spanish architect, could create an Italianate palace.

The Burgos Cathedral, situated in the historical centre of Burgos, is a Catholic church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Construction started in 1221 and was heavily influenced by French Gothic architecture. Work on the cathedral was stopped for almost 200 years, but it resumed sometime during the mid 15th century and then went on for over 100 years. The structure was completed in 1567.

The cathedral’s design includes Gothic elements as well as Renaissance and Baroque features. Visitors can discover the entire history of Gothic art through the unique collection of art the church houses, including stained-glass windows, tombs, choir stalls, and paintings.

The Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple. It was originally built in the early 2nd century BC in the city of Aswan.

In 1968, the temple was donated to Spain by the government of Egypt as a token of gratitude as the country had participated in the International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia. Hence, the temple was dismantled and transported to Spain, where it was opened to the public in July 1972. It is located in Cuartel de la Montana Park, next to Plaza de España. The temple has numerous chapels, a hall, and a terrace on the upper floor.

The Sabatini Gardens are part of Madrid’s Royal Palace. They were named in honour of an 18th-century Italian architect, Francesco Sabatini, who designed the palace’s royal stables.

Construction of the garden began in 1933, when the stable buildings were cleared. It was finally completed in the late 1970s. The gardens are built in a neoclassical style and consist of fountains, statues, and a pool. The statues found in the gardens are those of Spanish kings. If you visit the gardens during the summer season with our Spain tour packages, you can witness the Los Veranos de la Villa festival.

The Catedral de Toledo was built atop a former Muslim mosque. Prior to that, it had been a 6th-century church during the rule of Reccared I, the Visigothic King of Hispania and Septimania. Construction of the new church started in 1226 under the reign of King Ferdinand III. Heavily influenced by a French Gothic style, the church is 120 metres tall and 59 metres wide.

The main chapel’s altarpiece has five sections displaying scenes from the New Testament. The church, also called the Catedral Primada Santa María de Toledo, is the seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Toledo.

The Seville Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It is renowned for being the third largest cathedral in the world and the largest Gothic-style cathedral to ever exist. Initially, a 12th century mosque was located at the church’s location.

During Ferdinand III’s rule, the Spanish Christians gained possession of Seville. Therefore, in 1248, the interiors of the structure were changed to mark its transformation from a mosque to a church. To signify Seville’s growing importance as a significant trading centre, a grand church was decided to be built on that very spot.

The Picos de Europa National Park is located in northern Spain. In 2003, UNESCO declared it a Biosphere Reserve. The park, which covers an area of 67,127 hectares, is spread across the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria, and Leon. It is home to a wide variety of reptiles, birds, mammals, and amphibians.

Established in 1918, it was the first national park in Spain. The park’s creatures include the bearded vulture, the Cantabrian capercaillie, the Iberian wolf, and the Cantabrian brown bear.

The Prado Museum, or Museo Nacional del Prado, is in central Madrid and is Spain’s primary national art museum. It is known to host the richest and most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings in the world, including 7,600 paintings, 8,200 drawings, 1000 sculptures, and 4,800 prints.

In 2020, the museum ranked 16th among the most visited art museums in the world. Along with the Museo Reina Sofia and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Prado Museum forms the Golden Triangle of Art of Madrid. In 2021, it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.

• White water rafting
• Mountain biking
• Scuba diving
• Kite surfing
• Windsurfing
• Kayaking
• Snorkelling
• Hiking

Spain offers fun souvenirs you can take home for yourself and your loved ones. Listed below are the things you can buy from Spain and some of the best places to shop from:

A traditional Spanish hand fan is known as an abanico. These can easily be found at flamenco stores, street vendors, and gift shops located within resorts. Available in a variety of designs and colours, they help during hot days and make perfect souvenirs.

Being the world’s largest producer of olive oil, it’s not a surprise that Spanish olive oil is considered some of the best olive oil you will ever find. Forming an integral part of Spanish cuisine, Spain’s diverse climate and geography contribute to producing high quality olive oil. You can easily find bottles of it at grocery stores or a farmers’ market.

Spain is one of the biggest producers and exporters of saffron. This spice is added to many Spanish dishes, such as paella, soups, stews, and other tapas and meat dishes. Carry some home with you to increase the flavour of whichever Spanish dish you decide to make.

A flamenco dress is a unique kind of attire worn for performances, and you can easily get one from the markets of Spain. It contains plenty of frills, ruffles, and large polka dots, and it is available in vibrant and bold colours. It serves as the perfect reminder of your Spanish holiday.

Spanish cuisine is filled with numerous gems. Of those gems, one of the best ones to carry with you from your trip is Iberian ham. While it’s available in various cities and towns, some of the best places in Spain where you can buy Iberian ham are Extremadura, Guijuelo, Los Pedroches, and Jabugo.

Known for their attractive designs and bold colours, the ceramics and pottery pieces found in Spain are fabulous souvenirs to give as presents to your friends and family. You can shop for bowls, plates, jugs, and vases with designs featuring folkloric, floral, and religious themes.

A Bota bag is a traditional Spanish wine container. It is usually made of leather and has a flask like shape. This container has a narrow neck and a tiny opening that is concealed using a stopper. Although it’s used to store wine, it can also be used to carry other liquids.

• El Corte Ingles: For jewellery, watches, accessories, electronics, gourmet food, beauty items.
• Portal De L’angel: For craft items, international brands, and designer items.
• Mercado Central: For fresh produce, spices, cheeses, seafood, and meat.
• Calle Feria: For clothes, shoes, souvenirs.
• Antigua Casa Talavera: For Spanish ceramic pieces.

• Learning some useful Spanish phrases and showing respect and appreciation for a store owner can help you make requests during your shopping spree.
• Remember the traditional Spanish siesta, which is usually from 2 pm to 5 pm, and that most of the stores may remain closed during that time.
• While the bigger stores in Spain accept debit cards and credit cards, keeping some cash at the smaller, independent retailers is best.

• Make small talk when you meet someone, and remember that invoking humour or asking about the well-being of one’s family members can help break the ice.
• Don’t just talk about the topics you’re interested in, as it’s considered rude. Instead, show interest in the lives of those you’re meeting.
• If you meet someone who belongs to a part of Spain you have been to, discuss what you liked about that region or city. If they come from a place you haven’t been to or heard of, do show interest in knowing more about it.
• If you wish to form a close bond with someone during your trip, you might consider staying for a few hours after a meal.
• Remember that Spanish people usually stay up late to socialise, and if you don’t have the energy or bandwidth for it, just bid them goodnight and make your way out.
• In addition to staying up late, Spanish people have their dinner late, usually between 9 pm and 11 pm. Lunch is usually consumed between 2 pm and 4 pm. So, be prepared to have your meals in Spain accordingly.
• Spaniards expect people to speak up when they have something to contribute to the conversation, and it’s also common for people to speak over each other.
• Spanish people almost always appear very self-confident, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t sensitive to comments that could hurt their dignity. Be respectful while criticizing or delivering sensitive news so that no one gets offended.
• Most Spaniards speak loudly and are used to noisy environments. So, prepare yourself accordingly.
• Don’t speak on the subject of Catalan independence. If the topic does come up, stick to asking questions and learning about it instead of offering your opinions.
• Spanish people aren’t the most punctual, so you can expect them to be relaxed about being on time.
• Spaniards usually greet one another by kissing each cheek. This is common between women and men unless they don’t know each other well.
• Don’t say that football is a bad sport or criticize a person’s favourite football team, as it could lead to debates or arguments.
• Don’t criticize Spanish culture or say ill things about one’s family members.

Regarding the food of Europe, countries like France and Italy often gain the most limelight. In recent years, however, Spanish cuisine has come to be known for its eclectic produce and extraordinary flavours. Popular for its simplicity, Spanish food is simple and uses local and fresh ingredients. Tapas, for example, is an integral part of Spanish cuisine and can be considered a culture of its own. You will find olive oil and garlic in plenty of Spanish dishes. From hams and sausages to paella and stews, there is a world of deliciousness to consume during your trip with our Spain tour packages. Let’s take a look at the dishes you absolutely must try out in Spain:

If there is one dish for which Spain is known worldwide, it has to be paella. Various kinds of paella are available today, with the two most popular being the Paella Valenciana and seafood paella. Valenciana is usually made with rabbit, chicken, tomato, garlic, pepper, and saffron-flavoured rice. The seafood version of paella usually contains shrimp, mussels, and cuttlefish.

Some believe that ‘paella’ is derived from an Arabic word which means ‘leftovers’. The reason behind this is that the dish originated in Valencia centuries ago. This is when the servants of Moorish kings would take home the leftovers from lavish banquets, such as rice, chicken, and vegetables, and combine them to make a meal.

Jamon, or cured ham, is one of the special delicacies of Spain. Legs of ham are salted and then hung up dry so they can be preserved throughout the winter months. The different kinds of jamon available in Spain are Jamon Serrano and Jamon Iberico. While Jamon Serrano comes from white pigs, Jamon Iberico comes from the meat of black Iberian pigs. Slices of plain jamon can be eaten as a snack on fresh bread or be included in a cheeseboard with a glass of sherry. Tourists might want to know that Spain is the world’s leading producer and consumer of dry-cured ham.

Gazpacho is a cold Spanish soup made from bread and raw vegetables like cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. These are blended together until the texture becomes smooth. The chilled soup is garnished with diced vegetables, croutons, and olive oil, and it’s perfect for summer days. While gazpacho is available at most restaurants in the country, you can enjoy a more authentic experience at an outdoor food stall or local market.

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try churros; chances are you will have them at least once for breakfast during your trip to Spain. They have the shape of thin and long doughnuts that are fried till they turn golden. After being sprinkled with sugar, churros and a cup of rich and delicious hot chocolate are usually consumed. These crunchy, sweet treats are airy and can be eaten as desserts or snacks.

Tapas are an integral part of Spanish cuisine, and you can explore them while touring the country with our Spain tour packages. These small plates of food can be shared and eaten as appetisers or snacks. The items on these plates can mix sweet and savoury food and a combination of hot and cold. Some items include bread, olives, cured meats, garlic prawns, croquetas, and patatas bravas. Since late nights are a part of Spanish culture, the locals often order tapas dishes to keep the evening going until the arrival of the main course.

Patatas bravas translates to ‘brave potatoes’. The dish consists of crispy and shallow-fried potatoes in the form of cubes. The topping of these potatoes is a spicy sauce made using tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika. These potatoes can either be served as snacks or as a side dish. They often form a part of tapas spreads and are delicious because of their tender and crispy texture. Pair a plate of patatas bravas with a glass of sangria and cold beer, and you will be good to go.

A tortilla is the Spanish version of an omelette, with the difference being that it also contains potatoes along with eggs. Cooked in extra virgin olive oil, some also like to include other ingredients in a tortilla, such as peppers, cherry tomatoes, chorizo, and other vegetables. To make a tortilla, the potatoes are diced and then lightly fried. They are then added to the mix of eggs before being fried over a high flame.

Croquetas are a beloved snack in Spain. They have a golden and crispy exterior and a flavourful and creamy interior. To make croquetas, bechamel sauce is mixed with ingredients such as beef, ham, goat’s cheese, or chicken. This mixture is then turned into small cylinders, which are coated with breadcrumbs and fried until crispy. Forming a staple of Spanish food, croquetas can be eaten as a light snack or an appetiser.

Gambas al ajillo, or garlic shrimp, is made using shrimp, paprika, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. The dish is usually served in a small clay dish so that the shrimp stay warm and retain their succulent texture. Gambas al ajillo is usually garnished with chopped parsley and eaten with crusty bread to relish the flavourful sauce.

The literary tradition in Spain can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with various forms of poetry and prose presenting themselves, including Mester de clerecia, a type of narrative poetry. Even though Spanish Renaissance literature used themes such as nature, love, and beauty, it also stayed dedicated to poetry and prose. The rise of the play in Spanish literature took place during Spanish Baroque literature. This was when playwrights such as Tirso de Molina and Lope de Vega gained prominence. It was also when the renowned novel Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes was written. Writers of the Spanish Enlightenment were often influenced by the French Enlightenment, especially by the works of Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Voltaire. Romanticism in Spanish literature emerged in the early 19th century, focusing on nature and raw emotions. The realistic depictions of everyday life formed the basis of Spanish Realist literature during the mid 19th century.

The theatres, bridges, and aqueducts in Spain are remnants of the Roman rule in the country. Several types of architecture in Spain remind us of the various rulers the country has witnessed. This is seen through the fine Islamic architecture created during the Moorish rule, the pre-Romanesque churches in northern Spain built by Christian rulers, and the Visigothic churches with horseshoe arches. The Spanish countryside has several Romanesque, Mudejar, and Mozarabic architecture examples. Spain’s Gothic and Renaissance architecture can be seen through several churches and Granada, Seville, Toledo, and Burgos cathedrals. During the 20th century, Modernism left a significant impression on Barcelona, especially seen through the impressive structures created by Antoni Gaudi.

Early Spanish music was mostly influenced by music from other countries, including Roman, Italian, and Moorish music. During the 20th century, Spanish musicians used rock and pop music from other countries, creating a niche of their own. Madrid’s La Movida brought innovations to Spain’s music scene from the mid-70s to the late 80s. Some of the most popular music artists and groups from this period were Alaska, Gabinete Caligari, Héroes del Silencio, and Mecano. Flamenco music reinvented itself by incorporating elements such as nuevo flamenco, flamenco rock, and flamenco fusion.

Tourists can witness eclectic varieties of Spanish dances with Vaadiyan Luxury Holidays’ Spain tour packages. Sardana, a traditional group dance, is performed by men and women who hold hands and create a circle, dancing to the music of a live band known as a cobla band. The flamenco, of course, is one that’s known about worldwide. It originated from the Andalusian Roma (Gypsies) of southern Spain. The dance form involves a combination of singing, dancing, guitar playing, hand clapping, and finger snapping. Paso doble is a theatrical Latin ballroom dance that imitates a bullfight’s movement and rhythm.

Spanish cinema is known mainly for its absurdist and historical films. Luis Bunuel, a surrealist filmmaker, contributed greatly to modern Spanish cinema. His first movie, Un Chien Andalou, was created with Salvador Dali, the world-renowned Spanish artist