If you want to visit architectural marvels and cultural sites as well as swim in the Mediterranean sea, try Barcelona. Visit the imposing Sagrada Familia Cathedral and the Dr. Seuss-like Parc Guell designed by the modernist architect Antoni Gaudi. Sip sangria in a beach-side cafe. Stroll up Las Ramblas, one of the most famous pedestrian market streets in the world, while being entertained by street performers. After a day of sightseeing, relax on the soft sand and swim in the Mediterranean sea, or take a twilight cruise up the Costa Brava.
The Balaeric Islands are located about 200 miles off the coast of Spain in the western Mediterranean Sea. The islands are Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera. If you want to see medieval villages, lush landscapes and hidden beaches, travel to Majorca or Minorca. If you are young and are looking to spend your days sunning on the beach and your nights partying in the largest night clubs in the world, stay on the party island of Ibiza. For deserted white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water, relax on the quiet, small island of Formentera.
Known as the "Island of Eternal Spring," Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands. Located in the Atlantic Ocean about 200 miles off the coast of Africa, Tenerife is home to the world's third largest active volcano. Nature buffs may want to sunbathe on the natural black sand beaches created from volcanic ash, hike up the Teide volcano (which rises 12,200 feet above sea level) and look for the over 28 species of whales and dolphins that reside off the eastern Atlantic coast. If you are looking for soft, white sand, stay at one of Tenerife's luxurious beach resorts. Their silky beaches are stocked with with sand shipped in from the Sahara desert.
Located on the Spanish North Atlantic coast on the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian is a picture-perfect beach resort town known for its cutting-edge culinary scene. Walk on the town's wooden boardwalk and watch the gentle waves roll onto the shore. Explore the Basque old-town area built in the 19th century to shop and hop between tapas bars, or reserve a table at one of the many world-famous Michelin starred restaurants located around San Sebastian.
