Automobile routes in spain from barcelona. Travel itinerary in Spain. Mobile communication and Internet

A complete guide on how to organize an independent holiday in Spain: which resort to choose, where to find and book flights and hotels, how to get around the country, various routes in Spain, what to see, where to go, where to eat; summary information to help you plan your trip.

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Briefly about Spain

Spain is the southernmost country in Europe, in addition to the mainland, it also includes the Balearic and Canarian archipelagos. Tourists and travelers love Spain for its originality, long traditions, a huge variety of attractions and entertainment. In addition, Spain, with its wonderful climate, has more than 2,000 km of coastline, most of which is suitable for a beach holiday. The beaches in Spain are long, sandy and have one of the best services. Many beaches in mainland Spain, as well as Mallorca and the Canary Islands, have the Blue Flag distinction as the cleanest beaches in the world.

The traditional centers of attraction for tourists in Spain are the regions of Catalonia and Andalusia, as well as the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza among the Balearic Islands and Tenerife among the Canary Islands. These places perfectly combine the possibilities of beach and sightseeing holidays. The central part of Spain is famous for its ancient cities, which have perfectly preserved architecture from different eras, while the north of Spain boasts the best places for surfing, colorful cuisine and unusual architecture.

The country is suitable for recreation all year round. In mainland Spain, the beach season lasts from May to September inclusive, the rest of the time the place is ideal for excursions, walks and trips of various durations. In Mallorca and Ibiza, the beach season also lasts from May to September. But on Tenerife and other islands of the Canary archipelago, you can swim even in winter. In general, holidays in Spain are a combination of beach and sightseeing opportunities, varied cuisine, amazing traditions and many entertainments that leave few people indifferent.

Holiday destinations in Spain

Almost all of Spain is suitable for independent recreation and active travel. In total, there are 17 regions in the country, although the largest share of tourists in mainland Spain falls on Catalonia, Valencia and Andalusia, and on the islands - on Mallorca, Ibiza and Tenerife.

The following regions are suitable for a beach holiday:

Andalusia- the southernmost region of Spain, which is washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The best beach resorts are concentrated on the coasts of Costa Almeria, Costa del Sol, Costa de la Luz. The beaches are spacious, sandy, with a gentle entrance to the sea, equipped with everything you need. The most famous resorts of Andalusia include Almeria, Nerja, Marbella, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Tarifa, Cadiz. In addition, the region is also ideal for sightseeing holidays. It is here that such ancient cities as Seville, Granada, Ronda, Malaga, Cordoba and others are located. More about ;

Catalonia- a region located in the east of Spain and washed by the Mediterranean Sea. In addition to the fact that Barcelona, ​​the most visited city in Spain, is located in Catalonia, the region specializes in beach holidays. Local resorts are traditionally in great demand, incl. and tourists from Russia. The most famous beach resorts include Lloret de Mar, Salou, Blanes, Calella, Tossa de Mar and others. The coast of Catalonia is conditionally divided into 3 parts: Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme and Costa Dorada. Throughout the coast, extensive sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea and equipped with everything you need prevail. More about ;

Valencia- the southeastern region of Spain with the administrative center of the same name in the city of Valencia. The region is also famous for its beach resorts, sandy coastline and many activities. The main resorts are located in Valencia, Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja and other towns. Valencia is also worth visiting for sightseeing purposes; here you can find a wide variety of attractions for every taste; More about ;

Northern Spain (Basque Country, Cantabria, Galicia)- regions with gorgeous sandy beaches, but are of little use for a traditional beach holiday due to the climate. Precipitation in the form of rain falls quite often here, and the waters of the Bay of Biscay can hardly be called calm due to the constantly blowing winds. In general, the northern regions of Spain are more suitable for windsurfing than for swimming and sunbathing.

Balearic Islands (Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza) is a popular tourist destination for beach holidays. The islands are located in the Mediterranean Sea, about 250 km from the east coast of Spain. Mallorca and Menorca have beautiful sandy beaches located in bays. The main resorts of Mallorca include places such as Alcudia, Magaluf, Palma Nova, Santa Ponsa and others. In terms of sightseeing holidays, the city of Palma de Mallorca is attractive, as well as some natural attractions. More about . Ibiza, on the other hand, is more famous for its unlimited possibilities in terms of entertainment than for beaches;

Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria)- a year-round beach resort, islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Africa. The beaches here are spacious, sandy, in some places mixed with volcanic ash. The resort infrastructure is developed at a high level. Tenerife has direct flights from Russia. More about . There are no direct flights to Gran Canaria, you will need a transfer in Madrid. More about . The islands of the Canary archipelago are often referred to as the "islands of eternal spring" due to their mild climate and unique natural conditions.

For excursions, you can go to:

Spain, like no other country, is rich in historical sights, architectural monuments of different eras, in natural landscapes and in all kinds of traditional entertainment, such as, for example, bullfighting or flamenco. In addition, Spain is famous for its authentic Mediterranean cuisine and the production of various varieties of wines, it is not surprising that tourists often go on gastronomic tours in Spain.

Often beach and sightseeing holidays in Spain can be skillfully combined, because. many resorts are located near large historical cities. It is convenient to move between settlements in Spain by train or by car.

In Andalusia:

Seville is the "heart" of Andalusia. It was here that flamenco was born, and bullfighting became widespread. And the city is also famous for its Alcazar Palace, the Cathedral, Plaza de España, the huge Metropol Parasol umbrella, the Maestranza bullring and other architectural landmarks, in which flaming Gothic and Mudéjar style intertwined. More about ;

Granada is a well-preserved historical city in Andalusia, where the concentration of monuments from the era of Moorish rule literally rolls over. There is also a "city within a city" - the Alhambra. In addition to the Alhambra, the Cathedral, the old Albacijn quarter, the Generalife palace and gardens, the Sacromonte Abbey and much more deserve attention. More about ;

ronda- the ancient town of Andalusia, which is located on a sheer cliff, on the edge of the abyss. It is the unusual location of the city that attracts tourists to these parts. It is definitely worth visiting the Punta Nuevo Bridge and the El Tajo Gorge with the Guadalevín River. More about ;

Cordoba (Cordoba)- an ancient Spanish city where the Muslim Alcazar and Mezquita are adjacent to the ancient Roman bridge and the Jewish quarter. The historical heritage of the city is extremely rich. More about ;

Cadiz- is considered the most ancient city in Europe. Cadiz is located in the bay of the same name, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Cadiz is famous for its cathedral, ancient Roman ruins, the Candelaria bastion, baroque churches and a magnificent landscaped park. In addition, the best beaches in the area are located here, long, clean, with golden sand. More about ;

Malaga- a port city from where the "gates" to the resorts of the Costa del Sol ("Coast of the Light") open. In Malaga, it is worth seeing the Roman Theatre, the Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, rent for the bullfight of La Malagueta, look into the Pablo Picasso Museum and wander around the ancient fortresses of Gibralfaro and the Alcazaba, which offer the best views of the bay. And then be sure to go to local beaches or neighboring resorts. More about ;

In Castile:

Madrid- the capital of Spain and one of the most elegant cities in Europe. The main places of attraction in Madrid are the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, Gran Via Street, the Royal Palace, the Almudeina Cathedral, the Gate of Europe, the Debod Temple and numerous museums, including the world-famous Prado Museum. More about ;

- the "golden" city of the Spanish Baroque. Elegant, lush, seasoned, the city attracts attention and is a great idea where to go from Madrid for a day or two. The main attractions here are the Cathedral, the stone Roman bridge, Monterrey Palace, San Esteban Monastery and much more. More about ;

Toledo - the ancient capital of Spain with its Cathedral, Alcazar Palace, San Martin Bridge and other architectural landmarks. Like Salamanca, Toledo is a great alternative for a day trip from Madrid. More about ;

Segovia- An ancient Castilian city, the historical center of which is fully included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The “pearl” of the city is considered to be the ancient Roman aqueduct of gigantic proportions. The main tourist trail is considered to be the triad of sights - the aqueduct - the cathedral - the Alcazar fortress. More about ;

In Catalonia:

Barcelona- the largest Catalan city and the center of attraction for tourists from all over the world. Barcelona is a self-sufficient city with many attractions and entertainment. In addition, Barcelona is also the "gateway" to the beach resorts of the Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme, Costa Dorada. In Barcelona itself, the TOP 5 main attractions include La Rambla, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Gothic Quarter and the hills of Montjuic and Tibidabo. More about ;

Girona- an old Catalan town located near the French border. Its top places are often called the embankment of the Onyar River, the Cathedral, fortress walls, churches, the Eiffel Bridge, Arabic baths, etc. Often a trip to Girona is combined with a visit to Figueres. More about ;

Figueres- the place where the famous Salvador Dali Museum-Theatre is located, and it is this attraction that attracts a large number of tourists who relax in Catalan resorts. In addition to the museum, other architectural sights are also interesting in Figueres. The local toy museum is also of interest. More about ;

In Valencia:

Valencia- on the one hand, the city is ancient, on the other hand, extremely modern. Here you can find a lot of entertainment and ideas for excursions. You should definitely visit the Cathedral and the Queen's Square, the Silk Exchange, take a walk along the Paseo Maritimo promenade, visit the city of arts and sciences. In the vicinity of Valencia, the Bioparc and Albufeira Natural Park are curious. More about ;

Alicante- a city that combines historical sights, developed infrastructure, all kinds of entertainment and, of course, gorgeous beaches. Alicante is considered one of the most sought after resorts on the Costa Blanca. More about ;

On Tenerife:

On Gran Canaria:

In Mallorca:

Visa to Spain and entry rules

To travel in Spain, you need to open a visa. Since Spain has signed the Schengen Agreement, most often tourists are issued a Schengen tourist visa type C. Such visas differ in duration and in the number of entries allowed (single or multiple). You can open a visa at the embassy or consulates of Spain in Russia (Moscow and St. Petersburg), as well as at the Spanish visa centers, which are located in many major cities of Russia. In addition to the standard set of documents and fingerprinting, to open a visa, you will also need to present return tickets, hotel reservations and with a coverage amount of at least 30 thousand euros. Learn more about how to choose insurance for a trip to Spain–>. On the territory of Spain, the entry rules prescribed in the Schengen Agreement apply, i.е. essentially the same as the rules for entry into any other European country that has signed the Schengen Agreement.

Weather in Spain

The climate of Spain, for the most part, is hot Mediterranean on the coasts and continental in the central part of the country, where the terrain is quite mountainous. Spain is characterized by a warm spring-summer-autumn period, winters in the country are relatively short. The beach season in Spain lasts from May to September inclusive on the mainland and in Mallorca, but in the Canary Islands you can swim all year round.

When planning trips, it should be borne in mind that the summer months, especially July and August, are quite hot and are only a stretch for sightseeing purposes. At this time of the year it is better to focus on the beach. The air temperature in some regions (especially in Castile and Andalusia) in the summer months can reach +40 degrees and above. It is not surprising that in Spain there is a so-called unspoken law of "siesta", when many public institutions are closed during the daytime for a long lunch break.

Winters in Spain are mild, sometimes rainy, snow falls extremely rarely and only in the mountains. For the Balearic Islands (Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, etc.), snow is not typical at all. The ideal season for excursions in Spain is spring and autumn, winter is also suitable if you are going to the central or southern regions of the country. If you are planning a trip to the north of Spain (Basque country, Galicia, Cantabria), then you should take into account that it is almost always rainy here due to the cyclones that the Bay of Biscay brings.

More about the weather:

Currency, language, time

In Spain, it is customary to pay with the euro currency. You can change money not only before the trip, but also upon arrival at the airport. Despite the fact that in Spain bank cards are widely used to pay for goods and services, cash may still be needed, for example, in order to pay in public transport or for a taxi. Other currencies (dollars, for example) are not accepted for payment in Spain. For payment, you can use debit and credit cards, but not lower than the Standard level. Electron and Maestro cards are not accepted for payment.

In Spain they speak Spanish. Other languages ​​are also accepted in some regions. For example, in Catalonia and Mallorca, both Spanish and Catalan are spoken. As for English, there should be no problems in tourist places. Many signs and inscriptions are also duplicated in English. But far from the tourist trails, you can also encounter a complete lack of knowledge of foreign languages. For Russian tourists, the advantage is that some hotels in Catalonia and Mallorca have Russian-speaking staff.

The time difference between Moscow and Spain is 1 hour. A single time is valid throughout Spain, including the Balearic Islands (Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza). Please note that the time difference between Moscow and the Canary Islands is 2 hours (including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, etc.).

How to get to Spain

The best option to get from Russia to Spain, both the mainland and the islands, is air travel. Several major cities in Spain have their own international arrival airports, and some smaller cities have local airports where you can fly with a transfer. List of cities in Spain, which can be reached by plane from Russia:

Barcelona: El Prat Airport receives direct flights from Aeroflot, S7, Russia, Spanish Vueling. Direct flights are possible from Moscow (4.5 hours) and from St. Petersburg (4 hours 20 minutes). Also, direct flights are launched from some other Russian cities in the summer. In addition, you can fly to Barcelona with a transfer in one of the European cities, such flights are usually somewhat cheaper, but longer in time. It is from El Prat Airport in Barcelona that most tourists get to the resorts of the Costa Brava, Costa del Maresme, Costa Dorada;

Girona: relatively recently, the Russian low-cost carrier Pobeda launched direct flights from Moscow to Girona, a city located in the north of Catalonia, 90 km from Barcelona. From Girona it is also convenient to get to the resorts of the Catalan coast. Flights are operated several times a week from Vnukovo Airport. If you buy tickets in advance, you can find really cheap options to get to Spain;

Valencia and Alicante: to get to the resorts of the Valencian coast, you need to fly to the Valencia airport of the same name, to which Aeroflot operates direct flights. Travel time is 4 hours 50 minutes. You can also fly directly to neighboring Alicante, flights are operated by S7. Travel time is 5 hours 10 minutes;

Madrid: people often fly to the capital of Spain for sightseeing purposes and for business tourism, because. The city is located at a considerable distance from the sea. It is also convenient to get from Madrid to the cities of the neighboring region - Andalusia. In Madrid, flights from Russia are accepted by Barajas International Airport. Direct flights from Moscow are operated by Aeroflot, the flight time is 5 hours 10 minutes;

Malaga: one of the most convenient ways to get to Andalusia and the resorts of the Costa del Sol is to fly to Malaga airport. A direct flight from Moscow is operated by Aeroflot, the travel time is 5.5 hours. From Malaga, you can easily get to such cities of Andalusia as Granada, Ronda, Seville, Cordoba, as well as to the famous resorts of Marbella, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Benalmadena and others;

To cities like Bilbao, Seville, Almeria, Jerez de la Frontera , can be reached with a change in Barcelona or Madrid, because. these cities have local airports.

Majorca: to get to the island, you can fly directly from Moscow by S7 (in summer). Flights are operated several times a week. In addition, you can get to Mallorca with a transfer in Barcelona. As a rule, the second method is cheaper. The duration of the flight in this case will depend on the duration of the connecting flights. The airport of arrival in Mallorca is located in its administrative center - the city of Palma de Mallorca;

Tenerife: you can fly to Tenerife on a direct flight from Moscow, which is operated by Russian air carriers, and several charter flights are launched in the summer, which, in particular, are operated by the Spanish airline Iberia. A cheaper way to fly to Tenerife is by connecting in Madrid. In Tenerife, the international airport of arrival is called "Tenerife South". In addition, the island also has the Tenerife-North airport, from which flights are carried out to other islands of the Canary archipelago;

Gran Canaria: you can fly to this Canary island from Russia only with a transfer, there are no direct flights. Flight connections are usually made in Barcelona, ​​Madrid or Tenerife. The flight time depends on the duration of the transfer (from Moscow to Madrid or Barcelona - 4.5-5 hours + from Madrid or Barcelona to Gran Canaria - 2 hours 50 minutes). From Tenerife, you can get to Gran Canaria not only by air, but also by water, ferries run between the islands, however, this is more time-consuming than a flight.

Search and purchase of air tickets to Spain:

The general recommendation for finding and buying tickets to Spain is to purchase tickets as far in advance as possible before the date of travel, at least a few months in advance. So there are more chances to find budget flight options. It is more expedient to search for air tickets through special search engines that compare all available flight options for specific dates from different airlines:

How to get from the airport to the city

The main ways to get from airports of arrival is to use public transport or taxi/transfer services. Transfers in Spain are both group and individual.

Taxis at arrival airports can be found at the exit of the arrivals terminal. You can order a transfer in advance by the time of arrival on specialized international services:

From airport Alicante You can get to the city or resorts in the vicinity on your own by city and suburban buses. Travel time to the city center is about half an hour, travel time to Torrevieja or Benidorm is about an hour. Also from Alicante airport you can get to the central railway station of the city, from where you can go to the resorts by commuter train;

Getting from Barajas Airport to Madrid in several ways: by metro (city line No. 8), express bus (runs to the railway station or the Cibeles Square stop), electric train (line C1);

Get to the city center, as well as to other resorts of the Costa del Sol from the airport Malaga You can take a commuter train or a regular bus. The railway station is located right at Malaga Airport in the arrivals section of terminal number 3, from there trains run in various directions. The bus station is also located in close proximity to the airport - at the exit from the terminal. Buses also have an extensive route grid. Public transport does not operate at night;

Between airport and resorts Mallorca established bus service. Transportation to different parts of the island on 4 main routes is carried out by the company Tib. You can check the schedule on the carrier's website. Buses do not run at night;

From South Airport on the island Tenerife you can get to the main beach resorts by the company's bus shuttle titsa. It runs to all the main destinations of the island, but only during the daytime. At night, you will have to get by taxi or individual transfer;

On Gran Canaria you can get from the airport to the desired resort by regular buses of the company Global or by taxi.

Spanish public transport

The main types of public transport that you can use in mainland Spain are trains and buses. Compared to other European countries, travel in Spain is quite cheap, while high-speed trains and comfortable buses run between settlements. You can check the train schedule for the route you need at the railway service , bus schedule - from the main carrier - the company Alsa. In some regions of Spain, local bus carriers also operate, but as a rule, their routes are limited only to trips within this particular region.

You can move around the islands of Spain exclusively by buses, because. there is no railway connection between cities (the exception is 2 branches of electric trains in Mallorca). In Mallorca, the main bus carriers are companies Aerotib, Emtpalma and Aena; in Tenerife - company Titsa; in Gran Canaria - Global. It is worth noting that it is often much more convenient to move around the islands on a rented car, because. public transport routes are limited and it is not possible, for example, to get to some of the natural attractions on the islands.

Car rental in Spain

In Spain, in addition to public transport, it is quite convenient to travel by car, while car rental is relevant for both mainland Spain and the islands. This option is very popular among tourists and travelers due to the ease of movement and the ability not to depend on public transport schedules.

I must say that the rental itself is often so cheap that in some cases it turns out to be a more budgetary way of transportation than traveling by train, for example. To monitor prices for all rental offices of a particular city, you can use specialized search engines:

Routes in Spain

Spain by the standards of Europe is a fairly large country, so most often tourists prefer to travel not throughout the country as a whole, but in its individual regions. Getting around Spain is equally convenient both by public transport (by trains in mainland Spain and by buses around the islands) and by a rented car.

There are quite a lot of interesting routes in Spain, most often they are not tied to certain iconic cities. There are interesting routes in the National Parks, but here you definitely cannot do without a car. Here are some of the most popular routes for traveling around the regions of Spain:

• Barcelona and radial trips to Girona, Figueres, Reus, to Montserrat, to the resorts of the Catalan coast and to the Port Aventura amusement park (the same radial trips can be made from any resort in Catalonia);

• The route through Northern Spain most often runs through places such as San Sebastian-Bilbao-Santander-National Park "Peaks of Europe"-Gijon-Oviedo-Santiago de Compostela-Pontevedra-Vigo-Ponferrada-Lyon-Bilbao;

• Madrid and radial trips to Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca, Avila, Escorial Palace;

• Valencia-Alicante and intermediate resorts on the coast;

• Madrid-Cordoba-Seville-Cadiz;

• Seville-Huelva-Doñana National Park-Jerez de la Frontera-Cádiz-Tarifa;

• Malaga-Granada-Ronda;

• Malaga resorts of the Costa del Sol;

• If you wish, you can make longer journeys, for example, from Madrid to Barcelona or from Madrid to Valencia. Combined routes in Spain and Portugal are also quite popular;

• In Mallorca and Tenerife, circular routes around the island are in demand, as well as trips to the center of the islands, where the mountain ranges are located. As for interesting architecture, in Mallorca it is concentrated in Palma de Mallorca, and in Tenerife - in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna.

How to book accommodation in Spain

Spain is a country with a developed tourist infrastructure, so you can find a vacation home here for every taste. These can be classic hotels, apartments, guest houses, vacation homes, hostels, bed and breakfasts, villas, campsites, resort hotels. For some regions of Spain, for example, for Catalonia, Mallorca and Tenerife, the predominance of resort hotels is typical. They differ from the usual ones in that almost all the necessary infrastructure is located on the territory of the hotel (including entertainment, evening programs, children's animation, food, etc.).

If you are traveling in Spain for sightseeing purposes, then you need to know that in large cities you can find almost any accommodation options, while in small towns the choice is small and they know about five-star hotels only by hearsay. Nevertheless, the general level of service in Spain is the European quality of service.

In Spain, this type of housing, such as apartments or apart-hotels, is gaining popularity. The first option is a detached house or apartment in a residential complex. The second option (apart-hotels) is a whole complex of apartments, often they are also equipped with a common area for recreation and a swimming pool. Mainly, living in apartments differs from living in hotels - food, i.e. apartments have built-in kitchen options, while hotels serve cooked breakfasts (half board or full board).

You can find and book suitable accommodation in Spain on specialized services, just enter the location and the desired travel dates:

Gran Canaria: the main beach resorts of Gran Canaria are concentrated in the southern part of the island. This is due to a more favorable climate. The beaches here are vast open spaces, because. The island has a fairly gentle relief. The cover is fine sand. The most popular resort areas on the island are , Playa del Ingles, Campo International, Meloneras, Bahia Feliz, San Augustin, Puerto Rico, Puerto de Mogan and others.

Holiday prices in Spain

It is believed that the resorts of Spain are more democratic in terms of the cost of rest than other southern countries of Europe, and this is another plus in the treasury of the merits of Spain. Some resorts in Spain offer package tours for holidays, which include the main set of options, but we will talk about what the approximate cost of a holiday in Spain will be if you travel it on your own.

Accommodation cost in hotels in Spain starts from 25-50 euros per day (more often these are bed and breakfast hotels and apartments). Hotels in the 4 * category cost from 50 to 80 euros per day for accommodation. If your trip falls on the “high season” (from June to September), then housing prices during this period can rise by 15-20%. To avoid overpayments, it is recommended to book hotels, hotels, apartments in advance;

Travel by city public transport will cost between 1.5-2 euros per trip. If you stay in any city in Spain for a day or more, then it is usually more profitable to purchase a travel pass for the whole day (from 4.5 euros);

Meals in the restaurant will cost 15-25 euros (without alcohol), cafe– up to 15 euros, in establishments fast food- about 10-12 euros, gelateria ice cream - from 4.5-5 euros (prices can be 10-30% higher in tourist places). Please note that so-called tapas bars are common in Spain, in which, when you buy a drink, you also get small snacks for free.

Cheapest to buy products in stores. Approximate prices for some popular food products: pork fillet - 8 euros; jamon - from 12 euros; smoked sausage - from 9 euros (prices are per kg); local wines - from 3 euros per bottle; pasta - from 1 euro per package; yoghurts - from 2 euros per pack of 4 pcs.; processed and curd cheeses - from 1.30 euros per jar; mineral water - 0.5 euros per bottle; carbonated drinks - from 1.50 euros per bottle; semi-finished products (lasagna, pizza) - from 2.5 euros.

Entrance to some spanish attractions also paid. If it is a historical or architectural monument, or a museum, then the cost usually varies from 5 to 10-12 euros per adult. If these are water parks and amusement parks, then the entrance fee starts from 17-20 euros. And, for example, a trip to the famous Port Aventura amusement park will cost a record 47 euros for adults and 40 euros for children.

Price excursions varies depending on its type. Group bus tours for short distances usually cost 25-30 euros, individual - from 50 euros.

Food in Spain

You can eat in Spain restaurants, cafesortapas bars, you can also buy ready-made products in stores or at markets and cook your own food. The basis of Spanish cuisine is seafood, beef (including smoked meat - jamon), rice, cheeses, local wines (including sangria and sherry). Here they like to cook roasts, stews, marinated meat, omelettes, cold gazpacho soups, paellas, risottos, and various pastries that look like donuts are served for desserts.

The cost of food in restaurants or cafes, as a rule, costs 15-20 euros, excluding alcohol. In tapas bars, there is such a system: when you order a drink, you get a small plate with various snacks, canapes. If you stay in apartments or apart-hotels equipped with a kitchen area, then you can save a lot on food, because. products in shops or markets are cheaper. Famous markets with fresh products in Spain are Boqueria (Barcelona), San Miguel (Madrid), Central Market (Valencia), Mercado de San Martin (San Sebastian), Mercado Central (Alicante), Triana and Encarnacion ( Seville), Atarasanas (Malaga).

We will be happy to answer your questions in the comments!

Photo at the beginning of the article: Edmund Gall

Spain is a cheerful, romantic and amazing country. Every year more and more people from different parts of the world strive to get to the homeland of bullfighting and flamenco, plunge into the magical atmosphere of the most beautiful cities and soak up the gentle sea. And not without reason, because getting a visa for such a trip is not difficult, and the high level of development of the tourism industry makes it easy to organize a tour without outside help. And what could be better than exploring the Iberian Peninsula on your own itinerary, independent of the standard tour planned by the tour operator? To realize your plans, you can go by car, which will give you the opportunity to learn a lot of new things about other points of the route along the way. However, if you are not in the mood for a long trip, but just want to enjoy it, you can always upon arrival at your destination.

Self-guided tour: advantages and subtleties

And so, when a lot of time was spent on planning and competent organization of the scheme, the decision was made. Let's look at the advantages of such a trip to strengthen confidence.

1. No time frame. This means that you won’t be running around the architectural structures you like in a hurry in an attempt to take more photos as soon as possible so as not to miss the tourist bus that moves on schedule. You will have as much time for sightseeing as you want to spend.
2. Freedom of choice of points of interest. You do not have to follow the guide along the already beaten ordinary tourist routes. One has only to wander through the expanses of the World Wide Web and choose those directions that interest you.
3. You choose the regions through which your route will pass. Sometimes, after enjoying the rest on the beach, you want to change the situation and wander through the city streets, admire the beauty of nature in the famous parks or go to cities with a lot of entertainment and attractions. And then you can get in the car at any time and go further.
4. Saving money and time. Organizing your vacation, travel companies do not do it for free, inflating the cost of most services. In the case of a self-organized trip, you yourself choose the place of accommodation, food and rest, based on their price and personal wishes.

Try not to start only from the study of architecture or the monotonous lying on a deck chair. Spain is fraught with many discoveries that await you at every turn. Try traditional Spanish dishes - paella, gazpacho, tortilla, migas will surely surprise you with their non-standard taste. In addition to the beaches, which, by the way, there are more than 2 thousand, there are also stunning mountains and even a desert. Don't miss the chance to see everything with your own eyes.

Nature has no bad weather: we rest according to the season

Contrary to the general opinion that a vacation should be organized in the summer, we propose to consider the advantages of each of the seasons.

• Summer. When traveling by car at this time of the year, do not forget that you are going to one of the warmest countries in Europe, so the summer heat should not scare you. There are about 260 sunny days here in a year. Be sure to bring light and thin clothes, hats, sunglasses and protective creams. But the presence of an umbrella is not necessary at all, since rains are rare..
• Autumn. This season it is not so hot here and sometimes it rains. At this time, fewer tourists rest here, and the water temperature is still comfortable for swimming. Therefore, for people who do not like fuss and crowds, the autumn months are the most suitable.
• Winter. Perhaps the most interesting time. You can travel comfortably in the southern regions, sunbathe in the Canary Islands, or you can rent skis or snowboard and go in for sports in the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada.
• Spring. In March it is still rainy and cool, in April there will be much less precipitation. At the same time, nature will delight with its bright colors, evoking a romantic mood. May will allow you to relax on the coast and swim in the sea. At the same time, it will be somewhat colder in Barcelona than in other regions.

Attractions for every taste

Once you have chosen a period of travel and decided to make it yourself, you should familiarize yourself with some interesting places that you should definitely visit.

The country is able to satisfy the tastes of even the most sophisticated travelers, as it is truly a universal destination. Every tourist can find hobbies to their liking here - from architectural monuments and historical sites, such as the Burgos Cathedral, the Prado National Museum in Madrid or the Alcazar in Seville, to the organization of active forms of entertainment, for example, in the Port Aventura World theme park in Salou or the Jungle Park in Santa Ponsa.

We bring to your attention only some of the remarkable places in this unique country, where a vacation can become the embodiment of your dreams.

You can continue moving in any direction of this vast and multifaceted country, the choice of the appropriate direction depends only on you. G the main task is to combine sunbathing on the cleanest beaches, acquaintance with historical monuments, active recreation and acquaintance with local cuisine and just enjoy a wonderful tour that you have come up with yourself. Have a nice experience!

The Iberian Peninsula is literally waiting to be explored. In the first of two articles dedicated to him, we will go on an unforgettable trip to Spain by car on our own. We will drive through the vast and varied landscapes of the country, from the green vineyards and the Mediterranean coast to the Moorish treasures and artistic oases of Andalusia. Start exploring Spain by flying into one of the country's northern airports. We recommend Santander or Bilbao. Or cross the border into the southwest of France if you get there by land.

Day 1 - San Sebastian

San Sebastian (or Donostia in Basque) is one of the most picturesque cities in Spain and the main sanctuary of the unique Basque cuisine. It is a fun, sophisticated and even glamorous city. Every autumn it hosts world screen stars at the International Film Festival.

There are two great beaches here: the shell-shaped, family-friendly Playa de la Concha and the long, surfer-friendly Playa de la Zurriola.

Try your hand at water sports before relaxing on the beach during the day. At night, head to Parte Vieja (Old Town). The cobbled streets abound with inviting pincho bars. The Basque version of the tapas bar specializes in pinchos, small tasty sandwiches on a piece of crispy bread.

A huge pincho mountain tops the bar. Just take a plate, choose what you want. When you're done, pay the bill for what you eat.

Day 2 - Basque country and on to Logroña, La Rioja

Stop by Bilbao to visit the Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry ©

The landscape of the Basque Country is nothing like the dry plains we often imagine when we think of Spain. You will drive through lush green valleys dotted with "bacerris", traditional Basque brick and wood houses. Architecture lovers can take a short bike tour of Bilbao to see the Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry.

Further, the route through Spain by car leads through the green plains to Logroño, the capital of the province of La Rioja, and the main point of the most wine region of Spain. Spend the evening enjoying the city's pincho bars. Most of them are concentrated around two streets: Calle de Laurel and Calle de San Juan. Taste the legendary grilled mushrooms at Bar Soriano (Travecia de Laurel, 4) or indulge in a creative, modern take on traditional cuisine at Torres Gastrobar (Calle de San Juan, 31). And don't forget to drink the first glass of Rioja in its historic homeland.

Day 3 – Vineyards of La Rioja

Feel the rhythm of life in Spain's most famous wine region as you spend a day among the glorious vineyards. Many winemakers invite you on tours of their cellars followed by tastings. La Rioja is home to world famous red wines and excellent food. It is a particularly strong competitor to neighboring France.

Relax under the undulating rooftops of the Bodegas Ysios vineyard, designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. He also recently designed the Oculus Station in New York. Tasting tours are available in Spanish and English.

One of the oldest wineries in La Rioja is the Market de Murrieta. The founder of the winery, who gave it his name, imported production methods from Bordeaux and produced his first wine in Logroño in 1852. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and then attend a professional wine tasting on the estate.

Further, a journey through Spain by car will take you through green hills and medieval villages, past ancient churches. The Barrio de la Estación in the city of Jaro also boasts several wineries. Visit the futuristic tasting pavilion designed by architect Zaha Hadid in López de Heredia.

Day 4 - Zaragoza

Just an hour and a half from La Rioja lies the lovely countryside. Beyond fields and vineyards lies the next destination on your Spanish itinerary by car: the capital of Aragon, Zaragoza. This is perhaps one of the most underrated cities in the country.

Enjoy stunning views of the dome of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Pilar, which rises above the Ebro River. Then, explore the fortified Muslim Aljaferia Palace, which is one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in southern Spain. From 1018-1118 Zaragoza was one of the kingdoms of Taifa, the independent Muslim states of the Iberian Peninsula.

Pulled up the story? Then it's time to visit the Central Market to enjoy the aromas, views and tastes of this beautiful place. Shop for local produce or have a drink at one of the casual bars.

Day 5 - Tarragona

Drive east (2 hours 20 minutes) to the coast, to the ancient port city of Catalonia - Tarragona. This Mediterranean port is a real underestimated gem of the history of the Roman Empire. The city contains the ruins of the Roman city of Tarraco. The stunning seaside amphitheater and the necropolis are especially well preserved.

Stroll through the old town and sample Catalan specialties including "pa amb tomàquet", bread with grated tomato and olive oil. This is a popular breakfast dish.

Day 6 - Valencia

Another 2.5 hours drive along the breezy Mediterranean coast will take you to Spain's third largest city, Valencia. This is the birthplace of one of the most famous dishes of the country - paella. Try it in an authentic restaurant on the beach. Spaniards eat this heavy dish for lunch, not dinner.

Next, visit the old town, home to the Central Market, a wonderful indoor food market. And of course, do not forget about spiritual food - go to the Cathedral of Valencia, where the real Holy Grail is stored, from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper.

And remember: Valencia is not only paella! Don't miss the futuristic City of Art and Science, a complex of modern buildings in a drained riverbed. It was designed by the stellar Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Here is the largest aquarium in Europe, as well as a science museum and a giant IMAX cinema.

Day 7 – Tabernas Desert

A little over 4 hours south inland, and your eyes will open the otherworldly landscape of Europe's only desert - Tabernas.

Oasys Mini Hollywood, one of several Wild West-inspired local attractions, served as a filming location for numerous popular westerns from the 60s and 70s. The famous “Good, Bad, Ugly” Sergio Leone was born right there. Today it also houses a film set.

Day 8 - Granada

1.5 hours drive through the Sierra Nevada National Park towards Granada and you are there.

Visiting Granada is like walking through a fairy tale. The impressive Alhambra fortress and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada provide a fabulous backdrop to the city's winding streets.

Be sure to buy tickets to the Alhambra in advance. The Moorish fortress is one of the most visited places in Spain. Don't miss the Generalife Gardens, the mixture of expertly designed fountains, pavements and flower beds, and the Alhambra and mountain views from the Mirador San Nicolás lookout.

Also, be sure to visit the town of Sacramonte with its white caves. This is the birthplace of flamenco, which is so beautifully danced by the Granada gypsies, who settled here in the 15th century. Watch a passionate, dramatic flamenco show in one of the white caves.

Day 9 - Malaga

Further, the route through Spain by car will take you southwest towards the coast (1.5 hours on the way). Stop in the port city of Malaga. For a long time, its name was associated only with the expensive resorts of the neighboring Costa del Sol. In the last 5 years, the city has been transformed and has become a center of contemporary art and culture. The Picasso Museum is a great place to explore the work of local boy Pablo. And branches of the Pompidou Center in Paris and the Russian Museum in St. Petersburg bring wonderful world-class works to the city.

Follow the trail of interesting street art as you wander through the old town. The city cathedral is also located here, from the tower of which a panoramic view of the city opens ... True, this is a reward only for those who have enough breath for 200 steps on foot.

Day 10 - Seville

The capital of Andalusia, Seville, is located 2.5 hours from Malaga. It is famous for flamenco, Moorish architecture and sincere cheerful people. Visit the Alcazar, the royal palace built by the Moorish kings of the city. Today it is used as the local residence of the Spanish royal family. This is the oldest royal palace in the world. Try to guess which popular TV show was filmed here recently!

One of the most popular activities in Seville is renting a boat in Plaza de España. Sail down the canal, see the 2011 Parasol Metropol, a wooden structure shaped like an umbrella (or mushroom). And it also resembles a strange spaceship. The giant umbrella provides strategic shade during the hot summer months. And on the third level there is a terrace with a beautiful view of the city.

On the Mediterranean coast there are many large and small, famous and not so luxurious and modest resort towns. Among all this diversity, Barcelona stands apart. Bright, controversial, proud and, of course, unusually atmospheric. This is a city of geniuses, unrecognized and recognized talents, and, of course, art lovers. A city that can rightfully be called the resort capital of the Mediterranean. However, even with all this diversity and splendor, sometimes you want to go on a trip to Spain by car, starting the route from Barcelona and discovering every day more and more new corners of Catalonia and beyond.

The easiest and fastest way to get to Barcelona is by plane. Every day, at least 10 regular flights from Russia arrive at El Prat International Airport. In addition, you can consider options with transplants. You can find the cheapest and most convenient option and book tickets on the Aviasales website. Other ways are railway and bus. In both cases, you will have to get from Moscow to Paris, and then make a transfer. It is worth noting right away that such a journey will take a lot of time.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is a big city, and there are hotels of different star ratings, from luxury to economy class, in almost every area. There are more than 200 of them in total. And this is not taking into account the numerous apartments, hostels and campsites. And, despite this, during the season, places must be booked in advance. A distinctive feature of the Barcelona fives is that design hotels and so-called "boutiques" are often found among them. Even here, the love of art, typical of the Catalan capital, could not be avoided. By the way, not always traditional - among such hotels there are often avant-garde ones. As for the price, it varies - from 200-300 euros per day for a double room in luxury hotels in the central part of the city to 5-10 for a "bed" in hostels. Here, as they say, everyone chooses for themselves. Fortunately, there is something.

Barcelona

It features a rooftop pool and terrace overlooking the city.

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Barcelona

Just 10 minutes walk from Plaza Catalunya

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Hotel Lloret Ramblas

Barcelona

Located on the famous Rambla, close to Plaza Catalunya

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Car rental in Barcelona

If you plan to travel around Spain on your own, it is most convenient to do this by renting a car - there are many companies in Barcelona that provide such services. Managers, as a rule, are ready to communicate with clients in advance, book a car for specific dates at their request, and even deliver it to the airport by the specified time. Protom payment for this will be purely symbolic. But it’s better to know in advance where to look for parking during trips - in Spain they are not cheap and spontaneity in this matter can be very expensive, in the truest sense of the word.

Sights of Barcelona

How to get started in Barcelona? This question, probably, will not be answered even by experienced travelers who have visited it more than once. Someone prefers to walk along the noisy and always busy Rambla, someone prefers to look at it from the height of the Columbus monument, someone prefers to admire the legendary Sagrada Familia, someone prefers to enjoy the silence (yes, this is possible even despite the presence of hundreds of tourists) Park Güell… There are a lot of sights in Barcelona that have become its symbol. But still, despite the rather diverse “mast see” collage, you still have to single out something important for yourself. If you answer the question - where to go in Barcelona, ​​if there is only an hour to explore it, it will probably still be Rambla. Why? Because it is as controversial as the Catalan capital.

At first glance - cheerful and carefree. But one has only to peer into the sad faces of living sculptures, turn right (if you walk from Plaza Catalunya towards the embankment) and find yourself in the Boquería market, colorful and devoid of any metropolitan flair, turn left, walk a few blocks and stumble upon the Cathedral, which serves as a residence archbishop and built back in the 15th century (although it began even earlier - in the 13th century), it becomes clear that the Rambla, like Barcelona itself, is much deeper. Involuntarily, the lines of the Russian poet N. Rylenkov are recalled: “Here it is not enough to hear, here you need to listen attentively… Here it is not enough to see, here you need to peer…”. This is about her - the central pedestrian street of Barcelona.

If there is something in the world that is contradictory, ambiguous, but invariably captivating and amazing (in terms of architecture, of course), then this is the Sagrada Familia, or as it is also called the Sagrada Familia. It is truly unique - it is a building that keeps the memory of many historical events (construction began in 1882) and at the same time sounds in unison with the present, linking eras and generations with an invisible thread. It should be noted that this is the only case in the history of architecture when an unfinished long-term construction (completion dates have already been postponed more than once and are currently scheduled for 2026), which attracts millions of tourists and is crazy popular.

And, finally, in order to understand Barcelona, ​​it is impossible to bypass the famous Camp Nou stadium. Football for the capital of Catalonia is like a second air, and there is nothing surprising in the fact that your favorite team is treated with awe and respect. It is no coincidence that the slogan “More than a club” flaunts on the podium. During the tour, guests can sit in the stands, visit the commentator's cabin and go to the edge of the field. And, of course, get acquainted with the museum exposition. Of course, these are not all the sights of Barcelona. The Olympic Park, the houses of Batllo and Mila, the Park Güell, the magnificent old port, the Picasso Museum, the mysterious Gothic quarter… You can go on for quite some time and what you have time to see depends solely on the availability of time. There is enough interesting stuff here for more than one week.

How to save money in Barcelona?

Everyone knows that Barcelona is an expensive city. If there is an opportunity to save, then why not take advantage of it?

• Skip-the-line tickets for the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
• Transfer from and to Barcelona airport or one-way transfer from Girona airport - will allow you to quickly and comfortably get to the city center
• Hop-On Hop-jff Bus Tickets
• 20% discount on tickets to top museums (including Picasso, Joan Miro, MNSC), attractions (including Casa Mila, Casa Batllo and Camp-Nou), tours and bike tours, Hola Transport Card

Barcelona - Lloret de Mar - Girona - Vila Sacra

Having decided to go on an independent auto tour from Barcelona, ​​many tourists first of all go to the sides of Lloret de Mar. Moreover, in one day you can have time to visit several interesting cities at once. Having overcome literally 70 kilometers, travelers find themselves in a completely different reality. Despite the popularity of the resort, a calm, peaceful atmosphere reigns here. In addition, there are quite a few attractions in Lloret de Mar - San Juan Castle, located on the coast and which has become the hallmark of the entire Costa Brava, the romantic chapel of St. Christina, the patroness of the city, the gardens of St. Clotilde and others. For those who decide to spend the night in Lloret de Mar, the town opens up from a completely different side. With the sunset, it seems to come to life and the streets, which seemed quiet and calm during the day, turn into one big party. You can roam between the bars until dawn. The main thing is not to overdo it with cocktails, especially if you have plans to go further in the morning.

The next stop for many travelers is Girona, which is only 35 kilometers away. It is often called the immortal city (the city fortress managed to withstand 25 sieges over the years of its existence, and this is really a lot!), Spanish Florence and even the city of Salvador Dali (although the museum dedicated to him is not located here, but in Firegas). Girona is not as famous and popular as its neighbor Barcelona, ​​but no less beautiful. The best way to start your acquaintance with Girona is with a walk through the Old Town. Small colorful houses of the 17th century with multi-colored facades, located on the embankment of the Onyar River, invariably fascinate and remind of the affairs of bygone days (someone compares them with Florence - and there really is some similarity), and Catalunya Square, which looks like a wide bridge and connecting the two banks, looks very unusual and even mysterious. And, of course, you can’t pass by the medieval Cathedral, the construction of which began back in the distant XIV century.

Vila Sacra is located just 20 kilometers from Girona. Why is it worth visiting this small cozy village? At least in order to breathe the air of the Spanish province, find out what the national cuisine is (not tourist-oriented, but really local!) And spend the night in a cozy hotel in order to go further to discover beautiful Spain with renewed vigor in the morning.

Vila Sacra - Empuriabrava - Besalu - Castelfiolite de la Roca

Curious tourists are unlikely to want to linger in Vila Sacra for a long time - a couple of hour evening walks will be enough to get around the entire village. Therefore, in the morning, after having a snack at the hotel, you can get ready for the journey - to the shores of the bohemian Empuriabrava. This resort town is often called the Spanish Venice. It is all "cut" by channels, their total length exceeds 35 kilometers - this is a world record. As in Venice, luxury villas have access to the water - locals often travel on yachts and boats. However, land transport can also be used to reach any point in Empuriabrava. In general, this is a very atmospheric town, a walk through which will surely give a lot of positive emotions and vivid impressions.

Of the attractions of the resort in the first place it is worth noting the beaches. Wide, sandy, almost endless ... In fact, there are two of them - one is well-maintained, and the second is wild. Despite the popularity of Empuriabrava, there is enough space for everyone even at the height of the tourist season. But lovers of architectural masterpieces, this town is likely to disappoint. It is not old, and there are no attractions as such. But in medieval Besalu, the first mention of which dates back to the 10th century, there are enough of them. It would be more correct to say that the whole city is one continuous attraction. It is small in area, only 5 square kilometers, and you can get around all the nooks and crannies in 2-3 hours. City landmarks are the El Castel castle and the bridge over the El Fluvia river. However, not only they, but also every house, every alley reminds of the former greatness.

Having enjoyed the color of bygone days, you can go further. Just 15 kilometers from Besalu is the village of Castelfollit de la Roca, very famous far beyond the borders of Spain. It is amazing in the first place because it is located right in the rock. And it was built neither more nor less than in the distant Middle Ages. Hence - a very unusual architecture and many buildings worthy of attention. Among them, the church of San Salvador and the museum located next to it stand out. From the observation deck you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. In general, Castelfollit de la Roca is not just colorful - it seems to be lost in time. Walking along its narrow streets, you begin to believe that a brave knight in armor, or a lady in a chic lush dress, is about to appear around the corner. Fortunately, there are very few tourists here and the stories of the guides do not disturb this mysterious atmosphere. But no matter how beautiful the village in the mountains is, it is unlikely to interest inquisitive travelers for more than 2-3 hours. Therefore, in the evening you can return to Vila Sacra in order to continue the journey in the morning and see a completely different Spain - to the Pyrenees.

Vila Sacra - Seira, Pyrenees

From Vila Sacra to Seira is not so close - about 350 kilometers. However, the roads in Spain are good and the path can be easily covered in 4-4.5 hours. Why, having decided to visit the Pyrenees, is it worth staying here? First of all, because Seira is a very cozy, colorful village where you can get acquainted with national traditions and feel the special spirit of the Spanish province. Secondly, housing here is not expensive - for the price of a room in a three-star hotel in Barcelona, ​​you can rent a two-story apartment with a mountain view. From the point of view of attractions, Seira is of no interest. They are simply not here. But the immediate surroundings deserve attention. The first place to go is the dam near the lake Estany De Cavallers. It is considered the most equipped and convenient for inspection. The building is really striking in its scale. In addition, dizzying views open up from the dam itself.

You can admire nature almost alone - getting to Estany De Cavallers is not so easy, you can do this only with your own transport. That is why there are not too many tourists here. In the dam area, there are simple places to rest (wooden tables and benches), but if you want to relax and have a picnic, then you should stock up on food in advance - there are no shops and other outlets here. Aiguestortes National Park is located near the lake. It is notable primarily for the fact that several routes for short trekking have been laid across the territory - the easiest one, designed for unprepared tourists, can be overcome in 2-3 hours. On the way there are swift mountain rivers, slopes rushing towards the clouds, almost abandoned bridges. Occasionally, somewhere in the distance you can see lonely houses. The landscapes are complemented by lonely walking cows with bells - almost alpine romance. Although the Pyrenean landscapes are not at all similar to the Alps. They are beautiful in their own way, bewitching and breathtaking.

Enjoying the beautiful, do not forget about returning home - from Aiguestortes to Seira is not so far, only 80 kilometers, but the road is quite difficult - a narrow serpentine. Therefore, it is better to overcome it before sunset.

Seira - Benasque

Just 22 kilometers from Seira is a place that is known to every lover of active winter recreation - the ski resort of Benasque. In winter, at the height of the season, there is literally “no place for an apple to fall”. But in the summer in a small town with a population of 2000 people, as if lost among the Pyrenean peaks, it is calm and quiet. There are several trekking routes of varying difficulty in the vicinity - designed for both amateurs and professionals who know a lot about hiking. The beauty of the surrounding landscapes amazes even seasoned travelers - glaciers, lakes, waterfalls ... not a single photograph conveys all this grandeur and magnificence. Benasque is not only a modern ski resort. The city has a rather interesting history, so there is nothing surprising in the fact that there are many architectural sights on its streets. Among them are the palace of the Counts of Ribagorets, the houses of Casa Huste, Casa Faure and Casa Martial del Rio. As you can see, this place has always attracted representatives of the Spanish nobility. In addition, the Romanesque church of the XIII century Santa Maria Maggiore deserves attention.

The Seira-Benasque road is not too long, only 22 kilometers, but it is worth deviating just a few meters from the main route and you can find yourself in truly fabulous places. One of them is the dam at Presa de Benasque lake. By itself, it is closed to the public, but there is an observation deck nearby, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the dam itself, a tunnel through the rock (they are quite common in the Pyrenees) and the lake. Another place that would be a real crime to drive past is Lake Escarpinosa and the Posets Maladeta Park, which is located in its vicinity. Many call it the most beautiful thing in the Pyrenees. In any case, lovers of nature and beautiful landscapes will not remain indifferent.

You can end this day by staying at one of the Benasque hotels (in summer, the prices for accommodation in the city are very attractive, since the resort is empty) or by returning to Seira - it will be more convenient to continue the journey from there.

Seira - Montserrat - Castelldefels

Of course, these are far from all the interesting places of the Pyrenees, but if you are limited in time, the “must see” route can be considered complete on this route. On the way to Barcelona there is an object that you simply cannot pass by. This is the spiritual center of Catalonia, the holy of holies for local residents and Catholics around the world - the monastery of Montserrat. It is known primarily for the fact that it is here that the statue of the Black Virgin of Montserrat is located. The history of the monastery began over 1000 years ago. Since then, and to this day, it is considered to be active, however, now there are not too many monks, no more than 20 people. The monastery has a small museum where you can learn about the affairs of bygone days. In terms of architecture, the monastery of Montserrat is interesting primarily because it was almost completely rebuilt in the 19th century with the participation of the famous and controversial architect Antonio Gaudi. His ideas, connected with the unity of man and infinite harmony, here he embodied really very successfully.

Montserrat Monastery is located in a very picturesque place. Several trekking routes have been laid in its vicinity - for the convenience of tourists, there are signs everywhere, so you won’t get lost for sure. In addition, they pass through the most picturesque places and are designed for tourists with different levels of physical fitness - even those who are “on you” will cope with the conquest of the simplest ones.
How much time do you plan to visit Montserrat Monastery? A few hours is enough for someone, and someone is ready to stay here forever. For those who decide to stay and spend the night, there is a hotel near the monastery. True, the prices here are not low, tourist prices.

Having completed your acquaintance with the monastery and having breathed enough of the air of the monastery, you can return to the coast. Back to Barcelona? Of course, you can do that, but there are still many beautiful places in Catalonia where you can end up in the end. For example, a tiny and very cozy town of Castelldefels. It is known, first of all, for its endlessly long beach - a great place to put the final point and say goodbye to beautiful Spain. In addition, there are a huge number of restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines - from national Catalan to Japanese. Seafood dishes are considered a local "highlight". If you are lucky enough to get to Castfeldefels in July or October, then you can become a participant in a pirate feast or a chestnut festival, the fame of these events “spreads” throughout Catalonia.

Of course, this is not the only "Spanish" route that you can take to travel by car from Barcelona. Catalonia and neighboring regions are rich in sights, natural parks and all sorts of interesting places. Spain is many-sided, colorful and invariably hospitable. It opens to each traveler in its own way, but every tourist will certainly leave a piece of his soul here.