Madrid is Spain's capital, and, as the Spanish say, it is the most Spanish of Spain's cities. Since very few people who live in Madrid were born there, the city has an open, accepting spirit perfect for solo travelers. "If you're in Madrid, you're from Madrid," as the saying goes. As a solo traveler, you will feel at home exploring the Museo del Prado and Reina Sofia art galleries, but also take time to people watch in the lively Plaza Mayor. On Sunday morning, head to El Rastro flea market.
Barcelona is Spain's second largest city and the capital of Catalonia. Good news for solo travelers, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city with lively night life and it is very close to great beaches. To get started, head to the Mercat de la Boqueria, Barcelona's open air produce market, where it is easy to meet locals and fellow tourists. The museum with the best rooftop view in Barcelona is Fundacio Joan Miro.
On the other side of Spain, San Sebastian is an exuberant Basque city set on a beautiful beach. As a solo traveler, you will appreciate the pintxos--finger foods--served in bars in the center of old town. Astonishing in number and variety, pintxos can happily substitute for dinner. It is pleasant and safe for singles to wander the crescent of Bahia de la Concha, and you can make a side trip to San Sebastian's aquarium.
The quintessential Andalucian city, Sevilla is the home of both flamenco and bullfighting. It is a good city to visit solo because of the town's relaxed atmosphere. You can wander through narrow medieval alleys and take a turn around the lovely plazas. But the most memorable part of a solo visit to Seville might be the joyful, fun-loving evening crowds heading out for tapas bars or dancing. Sevilla is expensive so book your hostel or hotel in advance.
The best reason to visit Granada is the Alhambra. One of the benefits of traveling solo is that you can stay exactly as long as you like. Build on to of La Sabika hill, the Alhambra's fortress walls and towers seem like something out of a fairy tale. Visit this fortress-palace complex in the early morning to avoid the crowds. Directly across the Darro valley from the Alhambra, you can see the Albayzin, Granada's Muslim quarter, with its steep, winding streets and walled mansions. As a single traveler, however, use care while you visit and stay away at night.
