Spain’s enormous central capital, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares and is a city of contrasts. Historical monuments like the impressive Royal Palace stand in stark contrast to state-of-the-art skyscrapers; masterpieces by Picasso, Dali and Velazquez adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries alongside contemporary modern works; local chefs display a passion for Spanish food at traditional eateries while chic fusion restaurants operate next door. Madrid’s real attraction lies in the seductive lifestyle of its hedonistic inhabitants; indulging in tapas, hunting for treasures at the El Rastro flea market or partying the night away in one of the many lively nightclubs. Make sure to soak up the vibrant street life of the grand, historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, and spend a leisurely afternoon on the landscaped lawns at the Parque del Buen Retiro.
Resting on the exquisite Costa del Sol in the south of Spain, Malaga is a bustling port city known for its yellow-sand beaches lined with luxury high-rise hotels and resorts. For many visitors, Malaga is simply a gateway to the beach resorts of the Costa del Sol, but those who linger will find a cosmopolitan cultural hub complete with a thriving art scene, a slew of fascinating museums and an endless array of culinary delights. Presiding over the city’s modern skyline are two enormous ancient hilltop citadels, the ruined Gibralfaro and the 11th-century Moorish palace of Alcazaba, which holds several ancient artefacts. Other must-see sights include an impressive Renaissance Cathedral, the beautiful remains of an old Roman theatre, and La Conception Botanical and Historical Garden, offering lovely panoramic views of the city below.
Resting on the plains of the Guadalquivir River in the Andalucian province of Seville, the eponymous city is a feast for the senses. Famous for its Flamenco music and dancing, celebratory attitude, tasty oranges and rich Moorish heritage, Seville has reputation for charisma. At the heart of the old city stand three must-see architectural wonders: the Giralda tower, the Cathedral and the Alcazar. The neighbouring medieval Jewish quarter is a wonderful, whitewashed tangle of alleys, bougainvillaea and jacaranda trees, while on the other side of the river Triana is home to sailors, bullfighters, and flamenco artists. Seville travel is about exploring the way of life in these culture-rich neighbourhoods, eating at famed gelaterias, sipping late-night sangrias and, of course, savouring the bitter flavour of the famous Seville oranges.
Moncarapacho is a small idyllic village set amidst Olhão’s countryside close to the glittering Algarve coast, known for its dramatic cliffs and gold sand beaches. This serene town is one of the region’s most authentic villages, featuring cobbled streets, elegantly weathered old buildings, and olive groves and fruit orchards. Praça da República is the charming main square dotted with beautiful churches shaded by palm and jacaranda trees and is a great place to enjoy a meal and watch local life go by. A religious museum attached to the chapel is of unique interest as it features a collection of sacred objects and archaeological artefacts. To sample some of the best olive oil in the world, visit the Monterosa Olive Oil Farm and join the guided tour around the groves. Fuseta, six kilometres away, is a quaint fishing village where you can enjoy SUPing, kitesurfing and swimming. Further to the west, you will find some of Portugal’s most spectacular beaches.
