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Spain

Destination guide

Barcelona

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Barcelona - a hop-on, hop-off bus can help you get a feel for a city.
Evening light at Alhambra.

World’s first influencer: How an American writer put Spanish castle on the map

I’m standing in the hallway of one of Spain’s most visited attractions, curious as to why there’s a plaque dedicated to an American.

  • Shaney Hudson
The Camino path takes walkers to pretty fishing ports such as Zumaia.

It may be your idea of hell, but I loved this famous European hike

The Camino del Norte is first and foremost a religious pilgrimage and, if done in full, starts near the French border and ends about 830 kilometres later.

  • Karl Quinn
Pa amb tomaquet is a Catalan dish but is now popular throughout Spain.

There are just two ingredients in this dish, but there’s nothing better

It’s a key building block upon which an entire cuisine is based – a simple, incredibly tasty dish that you will find everywhere across north-eastern Spain.

  • Ben Groundwater
Gaudi’s masterpiece … La Sagrada Familia pierces through the uniform city blocks.

After seeing this city on two wheels, I want to move here

With about 230 kilometres of dedicated lanes, this Spanish metropolis’ bike network provides a fabulous way to visit the city sights.

  • Kate Armstrong
Tolosa market, Spain.

The one thing you must always do in Spain

There’s something better than lunch in Spain, and that is a high compliment, because there are few things on this entire planet better than having lunch in Spain.

  • Ben Groundwater
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The courtyard in the hotel.

This hotel is why three-star stays rule in Europe’s top cities

I have a dirty little travel secret: I really don’t like staying in five-star, branded chain hotels. Sure, they deliver on luxury, but they often leave me feeling cold.

  • Shaney Hudson
A Renfe AVE fast train underway.

This two-in-one rail journey is a fabulous way to see Spain

Despite delays, I enjoy both the shiny, fast-train experience and the slower, more worn-in regional train.

  • Shaney Hudson
The glass pyramid was designed to handle 4 million entries a year. But the Louvre now regularly draws more than twice that figure.

The best of Europe

Its compact size means you can pack a huge amount into a holiday. Our guide will help you make the most of your time.

The interior is calming, if a bit light on distractions.

Europe’s second-largest airport needs a facelift (and you’ll need a book)

Madrid Airport has fewer passengers, more space and less clutter than most, but there are few entertainment options.

  • Shaney Hudson
There’s no separation between work and play areas in Spain.

There’s one great aspect of European society Australia has forgotten

There’s no separation of areas to live and areas to play in much of Europe. Everything – and everyone – is together.

  • Ben Groundwater