Celebrating Spain’s World Cup victory? Here are the top cities to add to your travel bucket list

Global football fans were undeniably captivated by the 2026 World Cup, which even transformed casual viewers into die-hard enthusiasts. 

This newfound passion was sparked by the incredible performances of Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland, alongside the unforgettable viral image of Argentina's Lionel Messi bathing Spain's Lamine Yamal as an infant.

The tournament certainly wasn't short on drama, generating plenty of outrage and debate over specific fixtures (like the match between Argentina and Egypt).

But it was the spectacular finale that truly held everyone gripped for a nail-biting 90 minutes. Argentina and Spain locked horns in a scoreless stalemate until extra time, when Ferran Torres finally broke through to shift the scales in Spain's favour. 

The roaring celebrations from every corner of the globe were unmistakable, as social media enthusiastically rode the wave of excitement.

If the excitement has inspired you to plan a getaway to Spain, a drawcard European destination that welcomes 90 million travellers each year, you are certainly in good company.

With that in mind, here is an essential guide on what to expect and the best places to visit.

Why is Spain so popular with travellers?

Featuring more than 8 000 kilometres of coastline, the country claims the highest number of Blue Flag beaches across the globe. 

Blessed with sunshine for most of the year, it serves as an ideal getaway. Steeped in rich culture and history, it is recognised globally as the second-largest tourism industry.

Visitors can enjoy an exceptional culinary landscape, dynamic nightlife, and renowned art and architecture. Barring minor petty crime, it is consistently rated as one of the safest countries worldwide.

The places you should visit and why:

Barcelona 

As Spain’s ultimate travel hotspot, Barcelona attracts crowds for good reason. It perfectly pairs a lively Mediterranean atmosphere with a rich, unique Catalan heritage.

When planning an itinerary, make sure to include these top highlights.

Renowned for its Unesco World Heritage sites, Gaudí’s iconic Casa Milà and Casa Batlló feature striking modernist architecture that captivates anyone with an eye for design.

What else needs to be on your itinerary:

• Sagrada Família: An incomplete basilican masterpiece by Gaudí, renowned for its towering spires and exquisite stained glass.
• Park Güell: A whimsical and colourful park that provides panoramic vistas of the city and sea.
• Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): The magnificent Barcelona Cathedral, tucked-away squares, and a labyrinth of narrow, historic streets define this area.
• La Rambla: The city's most famous tree-lined pedestrian avenue, bustling with street performers and kiosks.
• La Boqueria Market: Situated just off La Rambla, this historic public market is brimming with fresh produce, delicious tapas, and an array of local delicacies. 
• Bunkers del Carmel: This former wartime bunker provides an unparalleled 360-degree sunset view over the cityscape. 

Madrid

As the proud home of iconic football teams Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, this spectacular city has so much to offer beyond sports, including traditional flamenco shows and upscale shopping along Gran Via.

Make sure to visit the following top locations during your stay:

• Immerse yourself in the city’s deep royal past by visiting the Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.
• The stunning 18th-century Royal Palace of Madrid is also highly recommended for history enthusiasts.
• Additionally, the scenic El Retiro Park, a designated Unesco World Heritage site, contributes significantly to the city's immense charm.
• For an unforgettable evening of food and nightlife, explore the vibrant districts of Malasaña, Chueca, and La Latina.
• Famous for its dynamic "never sleep" atmosphere, the city keeps the energy alive with its rooftop bars and centuries-old taverns.
• If time allows, you can also plan day trips to historic cities nearby, such as Toledo, Segovia, and Salamanca.

Seville

Although I was already well-acquainted with the first two destinations, this particular city is a discovery for me. 

It boasts a rich 3 000-year history and remains deeply intertwined with Andalusian culture. This is also where you will find the Gothic-style Seville Cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage Site. 

This city is the birthplace of flamenco. 

Places to diarise:

• Setas de Sevilla: Featuring an underground archaeological museum and an elevated rooftop walkway with panoramic views of the city centre, this eye-catching wooden structure resembles giant mushrooms.
• Torre del Oro: Situated right on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, this 13th-century military watchtower features a maritime museum inside and provides excellent views of the riverfront.
• Triana neighbourhood: In every city, there exists a unique spot where history, art, and gastronomy converge to create an unmistakable vibrancy that must be experienced firsthand. This is exactly what this location represents in Seville.

San Sebastián

If you're a food lover, this destination is a complete no-brainer. It honestly ranks as the ultimate hub for world-class gastronomy, featuring spectacular Michelin-starred fine dining at renowned spots like Arzak and Akelarre. 

That’s not forgetting the bars in Old Town, which are the best places to go to if you are looking to enjoy a tapas-style meal. It’s also the best food crawl district. 

But beyond the culinary delights, these are the other options here:

• Beaches: Their beaches are out of this world. If you are looking to soak up the sun and bask in paradise, then Beach of La Concha and Zurriola Beach are where you need to be. 
• Sightseeing: No trip to a city is complete without taking in the sights, and the viewpoints from Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo are sure to impress. 
• On Monte Urgull, you can explore winding paths leading to an observation deck, military fortifications, a museum, and a massive statue of Christ overlooking the bay, without spending a single cent at the monument. 
• Alternatively, riding the Funicular Monte Igueldo cable car up Monte Igueldo rewards you with an old amusement park and flawless, postcard-worthy panoramic views.

♦ Granada and Mallorca also deserve honourable mentions. Granada features the Alhambra Palace, an awe-inspiring Moorish fortress on a hilltop that is a Unesco World Heritage site. Meanwhile, Mallorca provides a varied island getaway showcasing spectacular limestone cliffs, secluded turquoise coves, and historic mountain villages.