La Sagrada Familia
This is a landmark church that stands out from the others. It has a lot of special artistic touches that you can see both on the inside and outside. The church has a lot of history and it stands out from the others in the area. It is a place worth spending some time seeing.
Best Time To Visit
There is no right or wrong time to visit this attraction. It is mostly inside, so even if the weather outside is wet and chilly, you can still see the inside of the church.
You Should Know
The church does have spots that are completely unfinished, so make sure to watch your step while walking through. You can go on the self-guided audio tour which allows you to go at your own pace instead of walking with a guide.
Park Guell
This is a large park that has many of Gaudi's sculptures that you can find within the many walkways. You can look at panoramic views of the city when you go down the walkways. This is a great place to spend some time, take in the views, and the nature around you.
Best Time To Visit
You should visit the park when the weather is warm and sunny. This is because it is better to be outside during this time. You can grab a bite to eat and have a picnic in the area.
You Should Know
They do have a playground if you have children that you want to give something to do. There are small cafes and shops in the area, so you can grab food there.
Casa Batllo
This is an entire apartment complex that was designed by Gaudi. The fantastic architecture is something that you cannot see with just any building or structure. While most of the apartments are taken and you cannot walk through them, you can walk in the halls, and even see the building from the outside.
Best Time To Visit
Since you have to view the apartments from the outside, it is best to go when it is nice out. This way, you can actually see the outside of the building and the architecture.
You Should Know
Casa Mila is another apartment complex that was inspired by the same architectural style. They are located in Barcelona, which means it is easy to find and there is plenty to do around the complex.
La Rambla
Located in Barcelona, this is a cultural hub where you can meet a mix of different locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of sights to see, and places to shop. You can find that it holds a bit of everything around every corner. You can spend almost the entire day right in this one spot.
Best Time To Visit
Since the majority of this attraction is outdoors, it is ideal to make sure you are going when the weather is comfortable, and it is not raining.
You Should Know
The streets are beautiful and lined with trees and other pieces of nature. It is one of the most beautiful sights to see.
Plaza Mayor
This is Madrid's vibrant main square that provides plenty of history in one area. You can also walk around and test the food vendors that are located in the square. It was built in the past, and many of the same buildings still stand with the original pieces inside them. Shop, eat, meet the locals, and enjoy music in this one square.
Best Time To Visit
Since this attraction is located outside, it is best to visit when the weather is warm and comfortable. You can get the best out of the time you spend there with the best weather.
You Should Know
Make sure to keep a whole day open to do this attraction because there is a lot to do and you need enough time. Bring some local currency with you to purchase the food and shop items.
Museo Nacional del Prado
The world-class European art collection is located in this museum. You can view just about everything that has been done by some of the most famous artists from around the world. Some of the most interesting pieces of art can be found inside this museum, as well. It is definitely worth the see.
Best Time To Visit
A lot of visitors choose to visit the museum when it is raining outside, since the museum is all inside. You can get out of the rain and uncomfortable weather.
You Should Know
Make sure to purchase the tickets for this attraction in advance, you can skip the long lines. There are a couple thousand pieces of art to see, so plan to spend a few hours here.
Royal Alcazar of Seville
This is one of the coolest attractions that provides you with a lot of history around every corner. You can learn, but also see the iconic Moorish-Renaissance royal palace. The pieces of the palace are all still intact, and you can find that it is one of the coolest, but also most beautiful pieces of history to see.
Best Time To Visit
The weather should be warm or cool, but not too cold when visiting. You can find that a lot of this is inside, but some is outside so if it is not raining or not raining hard then it is the most ideal.
You Should Know
This is a royal palace and parts of it are still used to this day. There is a restaurant here that is highly rated and provides the best food worth trying for yourself.
Magic Fountain of Montjuic
This is a fountain that provides a magical feel to it. You can see the water, light and music that is played here. Watch as light shows are put on and you can watch the magic and excitement unfold before your eyes. It is exciting, colorful, and great for the entire family.
Best Time To Visit
This attraction is the best during the nighttime because of the light show that is put on. Not only that but with comfortable, warm weather; you don't have to worry about not being able to have a good time and stay comfortable.
You Should Know
The fountain was made over 90 years ago, so it also has a lot of history like almost everything else in Spain. You can go here to see concerts, not just lightshows, so make sure to check out the tickets that are available.
Seville City Center
This is one of the spots you want and need to check out when you dock in Seville. This is because they provide not only the best shopping and eating, but you can walk along the square, speak with locals, and just see how the regular world in this area works.
Best Time To Visit
Visit the city center when the weather is warmer and comfortable. You can find that if it is raining, it is not as enjoyable, either so keep your eye on the weather.
You Should Know
This can be a high tourist area, so make sure to keep this in mind since it might be packed. Always check out the street food, because it is some of the most delicious in the area.
Santa Cruz
This is a former Jewish quarter that provides you with a bit more of history. You can walk the same streets in this area that was once known as the ghetto to the Jewish residents who were forced to live here after their homes were taken over by soldiers.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to travel to this area is when the weather is comfortable, and when it is not raining, as this can be the best time to walk through the streets and neighborhoods.
You Should Know
You can get a guide to go through this section and let you know more about history, or you can walk yourself down the roads.
Cadiz at Night
When you visit this city at night, you're going to be delighted with the street vendors, music, and festivities. You can go into the bars and nightclubs for even more fun during this time. It is definitely worth seeing since the entire city is lit up with under glows that are beautiful and bright.
Best Time To Visit
Tour this area when it is warm outside, and you can walk the streets. Try to stay away from nights when it is raining or storming, as there won't be much happening outside.
You Should Know
The locals are friendly, so you can find that speaking, dancing, and laughing with them will come naturally. Sherry is one of the most ordered drinks, if you've never had it, it might be a good time to try it out.
Yacimiento Arqueologico Gadir
This museum in Cadiz is a place that holds Phoenician items that were unearthed in the area. Everything is on display and there are explanations of where they came from, where they were found, how they were used, their age, and other interesting things you might want to know about the past.
Best Time To Visit
There is no right or wrong time to visit. You can visit at any point in time, as long as you check out the hours before you go to make sure they're open during that time.
You Should Know
You can request to have a tour, but usually, people like to walk through the exhibits on their own. It might be ideal to brush up on the local language because most of the information is in it.
Roman Theatre
This archeological museum is open to the public. The ruins are still standing, and they even put on shows in the area from time to time. You can visit, take a look at some of the pieces of ancient Roman history and make sure to learn more about the past and how those in the area used to live. The theater was built to hold up to 20,000 spectators at any given time.
Best Time To Visit
Visit the theater when the weather is a bit nicer, mostly when it is not raining. Some of the museum is inside, but there are ruins on the outside to visit.
You Should Know
Put some time aside for this museum, as the area is quite large and there is a lot to walk throughout. Since there is a lot to walk, you also want to make sure to dress comfortably and put on the right type of shoes.
Jerez de la Frontera
This is a very small city and one that is famous for a handful of things. You can enjoy sherry wine, flamenco music, horse and bull ranches, and even dancing. You should make sure to make this stop one that is at the top of your list because even though it is small, there is a lot to do and it is just as exciting.
Best Time To Visit
Travel to this area when the weather is nice outside. You will want to walk the city streets, stop into the bars and restaurants for food and sherry, and even speak with the locals.
You Should Know
The area is full of beautiful architecture, so make sure to stop for a second to admire it while you are there.
Osborne Winery
This winery is located in El Puerto de Santa Maria and they have something known as a bodega. You can easily walk to this winery and enjoy a group tasting of an aged sherry from the winery. It is a part of their culture and something you should check out and see how exciting it can be.
Best Time To Visit
Visit the winery when it is not raining, and it is comfortable outside. Make sure to check when the bodega happens, so you can plan your trip around then.
You Should Know
The sherry has been aged this way since history, and every year the people come together to do the bodega and try it. You can walk right from the ship to this winery because the area is quite small and compact.
Getting There
Spain's river cruises typically start their journey in the country's accessible ports like Seville or Porto. These historic cities are well-connected by air and land, making them easy to reach from international destinations. Once you've landed, getting to the port is a breeze—often just a short taxi ride away. Cruise ships slide into these ports with ease, as they're well-equipped to welcome travelers from around the globe. Plus, the ports serve as perfect launch pads for your Spanish river adventure, placing you right at the heart of the action from the moment you step aboard. So pack your bags, catch a flight, and you're almost there—the rivers of Spain are ready to welcome you.
Immerse Yourself in Spanish Culture
Spanish culture is vibrant and deeply rooted in tradition, from flamboyant festivals to the daily siesta. When you're on a river cruise, you get an up-close look at customs like the communal eating of tapas and the spirited flamenco dancing. Festivals happen year-round, with some of the most famous being the Feria de Abril in Seville, where locals dress in colorful costumes and celebrate with music and dance, and La Tomatina in Buñol, a lively tomato-throwing festival. Be sure to respect the local way of life; a relaxed pace is often embraced, especially during the midday siesta when many businesses close. Engage with the locals, attempt a few words in Spanish, and you'll find warmth and hospitality that's as memorable as the scenic landscapes.
Experience the Flavors of Spain on a River Cruise
Spain's cuisine is as rich and diverse as its landscapes, with each region offering its own culinary delights. On a river cruise, you'll have the chance to taste classic dishes like paella, a saffron-infused rice dish often cooked with seafood or meat, and tapas, small plates of foods like olives, cheese, and Iberico ham, perfect for sampling a variety of flavors.
Don't miss the chance to try gazpacho in Andalusia, a refreshing cold tomato soup ideal for hot days. For something sweet, churros with thick hot chocolate is a must-try, especially in the cafes of Madrid. Drinks? Spain is famous for its sangria, a fruity wine punch, and its world-class red wines, particularly those from the Rioja region.
Onboard, many river cruises offer menus designed to showcase local cuisine, but be sure to venture ashore for authentic meals. Look for bustling local markets like the Mercado de Triana in Seville, where you can enjoy fresh produce and regional specialties. Food tours are also a great way to explore—with local guides often leading the way to the best hidden gems for a true taste of Spain.
The Perfect Time for a Spanish River Cruise
Spain's diverse weather patterns, reflective of its varied landscapes, play a significant role in determining the best times for river cruising. During the summer months, especially in southern Spain, temperatures can be quite high, making river cruising less comfortable. Consequently, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are more ideal for river cruising in Spain. These seasons offer milder weather, enhancing the sightseeing experience while avoiding the peak tourist crowds typical of July and August. Spring river cruising in Spain is enriched by the blooming flowers and vibrant local festivals, adding color and cultural depth to the experience. Conversely, fall river cruising presents the opportunity to explore during the harvest season, with cooler days that are perfect for extended excursions and cultural immersion.
Winter in Spain brings cooler and sometimes rainy conditions, which might seem less ideal for river cruising. However, the winter season also means fewer tourists, offering a more peaceful river cruising experience. Additionally, the festive decorations during this time can add a unique charm to river cruising in Spain.
For the best overall experience, aiming for a river cruise in Spain during spring or fall is advisable. These seasons provide the perfect balance of pleasant climate, thinner crowds, and rich cultural experiences, making them the most favorable times for river cruising in Spain's beautiful and diverse regions.
Why Book a River Cruise to Spain?
Booking a river cruise to Spain is a decision packed with value. It's not just about the convenience of unpacking once while your floating hotel takes you from one vibrant destination to another; it's about the unique vantage point you gain from the water. The views are unparalleled—ancient cities unfold from the perspective of their lifeblood rivers, offering sights you just can't get from land. Plus, the inclusive nature of a cruise often means your meals, accommodation, and transportation are bundled into one price, making it easier to budget for your adventure. River cruises can also offer exclusive experiences not available to the general tourist, like private tours of historical sites, evening events in local landmarks, and dockings at ports that larger ships can't access. The blend of cultural immersion, the ease of travel, and the chance to see a country from its rivers is a compelling reason to choose a cruise for your Spanish getaway.
Ready to Book Your Spanish River Cruise?
If you're yearning for a journey that combines cultural richness with relaxation, a Spanish river cruise is your calling. Picture yourself gliding past rolling vineyards, docking at historic cities, and indulging in culinary delights. You can delve into the heart of Spain's culture, from flamenco in Andalusia to the architectural marvels of Seville. With each port offering its own slice of history and charm, your days will be as full as you wish.
The convenience of a river cruise — where your comfortable accommodations follow you from destination to destination — cannot be overstated. So why wait? Book your Spanish river cruise now for an experience that promises to be as enchanting as the country itself.
1. Free Quote
2. Dedicated Travel Consultant
3. Low Price Guaranteed
4. Stress Free Travel
