Travel blog - Tips to explore the world on a budget
What to See in Antequera: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Ava Sterling
12
December,
2025
Antequera is located in the center of Andalusia and is known for its rich history, from ancient megalithic tombs to Moorish fortresses. The Antequera Dolmens Site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2016, includes three large tombs—Menga, Viera, and El Romeral—built between 5,500 and 4,000 years ago. The area also features two natural landmarks: Peña de los Enamorados (Lovers' Rock) and the unique El Torcal karst landscape. The Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress on a hill, played a key role in defending Granada during the Christian reconquest. Nearby, the Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor, completed in 1550, stands as the first example of Andalusian Renaissance architecture. Antequera is often called the "City of Churches" because it has 33 religious buildings, and its old town is filled with narrow streets, palaces, convents, and baroque facades. El Torcal Natural Park, 14 km to the south, is famous for its unusual limestone formations shaped over millions of years. The city is also known for molletes de Antequera, soft round bread rolls with Protected Geographical Indication, baked since the 16th century. Whether you are visiting ancient dolmens, climbing the Alcazaba for views, hiking in El Torcal, or enjoying molletes at sunrise, Antequera offers a blend of history and natural beauty.
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What to See in Vitoria-Gasteiz: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Sofia Ricci
12
December,
2025
Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of Álava and the Basque Country, combines its medieval roots with a strong focus on sustainability. The old town still has its original almond-shaped layout, created when King Sancho VI "The Wise" founded the city more than 800 years ago. The Gothic Cathedral of Santa María, currently being restored through the "Open for Works" program that won the Europa Nostra 2000 award and inspired Ken Follett's novels, stands at the top of the old quarter. The cobbled streets are named after medieval trades like Herrería (ironworkers), Zapatería (shoemakers), and Cuchillería (knifemakers). Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is the heart of the city, featuring the Battle of Vitoria monument and San Miguel Church, which holds the shrine of the city's patron Virgin. Vitoria-Gasteiz was named European Green Capital in 2012 and Global Green City in 2019, and offers 46 square meters of green space per person, including a 30 km Green Ring of parks. The city’s pintxos bars are famous, with places like El Toloño serving the best Gilda and Sagartoki winning Best Pintxos Bar of Spain twice. Whether you’re climbing the cathedral scaffolding to see restoration work, cycling through the Green Ring, sampling pintxos in the old town, or visiting Renaissance palaces, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a great place to experience Basque culture, environmental progress, and excellent food.
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What to See in Sanlúcar de Barrameda: Itinerary, Highlights & Tour
Alexandra Dubakova
12
December,
2025
Sanlúcar de Barrameda sits on the Cádiz coast, where the Guadalquivir River meets the Atlantic Ocean and faces the protected shores of Doñana National Park. This historic port town is the only place where manzanilla sherry is made—a delicate, slightly salty white wine aged in seaside wineries. Sanlúcar played a key role in history as the departure point for Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition, which completed the first trip around the world in 1519. The town’s upper and lower neighborhoods are full of history, from the Renaissance Palacio de los Duques de Medina Sidonia to whitewashed streets that lead to the lively Plaza del Cabildo. Every August, Sanlúcar hosts famous beach horse races, a tradition of 175 years, with purebred horses running along the Atlantic shore at low tide. Whether you’re enjoying fresh langostinos from the river, sipping chilled manzanilla, taking a boat to explore Doñana, or watching the horse races, Sanlúcar gives you a real taste of Andalusian coastal life, away from the usual tourist spots.
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What to See in Oviedo: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Ava Sterling
11
December,
2025
Oviedo is Asturias' capital, a welcoming city where pre-Romanesque architecture meets vibrant modern life. The Cathedral of San Salvador preserves the Cámara Santa (Holy Chamber), a 9th-century pre-Romanesque treasure housing the Cross of Angels and Victory Cross—symbols of the Asturian monarchy. On Mount Naranco's slopes 3 km from the center, two UNESCO World Heritage pre-Romanesque churches—Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo—showcase unique 9th-century Asturian architecture. The historic center unfolds around Plaza del Fontán's picturesque market square, connecting medieval streets, Campo San Francisco park with its beloved Mafalda sculpture, and elegant boulevards lined with Belle Époque buildings. Whether you're exploring the Cathedral's Gothic cloisters, climbing the 80-meter Renaissance bell tower for panoramic views, wandering Old Oviedo's narrow lanes on a mysterious night tour, or visiting royal palaces turned churches on Mount Naranco, Oviedo offers authentic Asturian culture, architectural masterpieces, and warm hospitality—without tourist crowds.
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What to See in Ourense: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Sofia Ricci
10
December,
2025
Ourense, sometimes called Orense, is known as the thermal capital of Galicia. Ancient hot springs run through the historic center, and you can enjoy free thermal pools just as the Romans did 2,000 years ago. The well-known As Burgas springs reach over 60°C as they come out of granite rock, giving you a special thermal experience in Spain. In addition to the hot springs, Ourense Cathedral features the impressive Pórtico del Paraíso, a 13th-century masterpiece that stands alongside Santiago de Compostela’s famous portico. The historic center is organized around Plaza Mayor, which connects the Cathedral, medieval streets, and the well-known Ponte Vella (Old Bridge) over the Miño River. Whether you visit the Cathedral, relax in riverside pools, stroll through Old Town squares, or explore the Sil Canyon’s wine terraces, Ourense offers authentic Galician culture, relaxing waters, and beautiful architecture without the crowds.
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What to See in Valladolid: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
10
December,
2025
Valladolid was once Spain’s capital, chosen by Philip III in 1601 when he moved the royal court from Madrid. This brought nobility, famous writers like Cervantes, and impressive architecture to the city. The National Sculpture Museum, set in the stunning Colegio de San Gregorio, holds Europe’s best collection of polychrome wood sculptures. Plaza Mayor, one of Spain’s earliest rectangular plazas, is the heart of Valladolid’s lively tapas scene, earning it the title of Spain’s tapas capital. From Juan de Herrera’s unfinished Cathedral to the Royal Palace and the streets where Columbus died, Valladolid offers grand history, artistic treasures, and real Castilian life—without the crowds of Madrid.
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What to See in Jaén: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
09
December,
2025
Jaén is one of Andalusia's hidden gems, known for its impressive Renaissance cathedral and a hilltop castle with views over 66 million olive trees. The city is home to Spain's largest and best-preserved Arab baths from the 11th century, found beneath a Renaissance palace. In the La Magdalena neighborhood, narrow medieval streets are filled with stories of the legendary Lagarto that once frightened locals. You can explore the Cathedral’s long history, walk through the old Islamic baths, or enjoy the sweeping olive grove views from Santa Catalina Castle. Jaén combines Renaissance beauty, Moorish history, and real Andalusian culture, all without the usual crowds. As the world’s olive oil capital and a city with deep historical roots as the "Holy Kingdom," Jaén appeals to history fans, architecture lovers, and anyone looking for a less-traveled part of Spain.
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What to See in Gijón: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Liam O'Connell
09
December,
2025
Gijón is the biggest coastal city in Asturias, with a 1.5km stretch of golden sand and Roman history dating back to the 1st century AD. The Cimavilla neighborhood sits on a clifftop and still feels like a fishing village, with narrow streets that were once home to sailors, cigarette sellers, and fishmongers. At the top of the headland, you’ll find Eduardo Chillida’s Elogio del Horizonte sculpture, looking out over the Cantabrian Sea. Beneath the modern city, you can visit underground Roman baths and the birthplace of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos. Whether you’re surfing at Playa de San Lorenzo, exploring the Campo Valdés archaeological site, or tasting Asturian cider in a sidrería, Gijón offers a mix of beach life, ancient ruins, and maritime traditions—without the crowds. The city blends its industrial past with deep historical roots, attracting surfers, history lovers, and families who want to explore the waterfront on foot.
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What to See in Cáceres: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Alexandra Dubakova
08
December,
2025
Cáceres has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986 and is known for its remarkably well-preserved medieval old town. Inside its ancient walls, the Ciudad Monumental features a unique mix of Roman, Islamic, Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture, shaped by centuries of different cultures. Around 30 Moorish towers still rise above the city, and cobblestone streets lead past noble palaces, fortified homes, and grand churches that remain untouched by modern changes. This authentic setting even caught the attention of Game of Thrones producers, who used Cáceres as King's Landing in Season 7. The city is also famous for its food, including Torta del Casar cheese, migas extremeñas, and traditional shepherd dishes that reflect its rural history. Every November, the Medieval Market of the Three Cultures celebrates the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences that define Cáceres. Whether you’re exploring Renaissance palaces near Plaza de Santa María, visiting the Arab cisterns under the Cáceres Museum, or enjoying local cheese in a cozy tavern, Cáceres offers a genuine Spanish experience without large tourist crowds.
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What to See in Pontevedra: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Sofia Ricci
08
December,
2025
Pontevedra, a captivating historic city in Galicia, northwestern Spain, is celebrated for its beautifully preserved old town and its status as one of Europe’s most pedestrian-friendly urban centers. The maze of stone streets, lively plazas, and elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings create an intimate and culturally rich atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy outstanding seafood, explore local markets, and experience the region’s traditions through festivals and museums. Thanks to its mild climate and location near the scenic Atlantic coastline, Pontevedra is an ideal base for exploring the beaches, vineyards, and natural landscapes of the Rías Baixas. This makes it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking a blend of heritage, gastronomy, and relaxed coastal charm.
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What to See in Jerez de la Frontera: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Ava Sterling
06
December,
2025
Jerez de la Frontera is the largest city in Cádiz province and is known as the world capital of sherry wine (vino de Jerez). More than 30 historic bodegas age this fortified wine using the unique solera system. The city’s UNESCO-listed Alcázar, an 11th-century Almohad fortress with Arab baths, a mosque, and a palace, highlights impressive Islamic architecture. Nearby, Baroque and Gothic cathedral spires create a striking skyline. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art hosts horse ballet shows that blend classical dressage, 18th-century costumes, and Spanish music. Traditional tabanco bars, found only in Jerez, serve sherry straight from wooden barrels and feature spontaneous flamenco performances, keeping Andalusian traditions alive. Jerez brings together wine tourism, equestrian shows, authentic flamenco, and a mix of Moorish and Christian architecture, making it one of southern Spain’s most underrated cultural destinations.
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What to See in Alcalá de Henares: Itinerary, Highlights, and Tours
Liam O'Connell
05
December,
2025
Alcalá de Henares is a UNESCO World Heritage city located 35 kilometers east of Madrid and is known as the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote and Spain's most famous writer. The University of Alcalá, founded in 1499 by Cardinal Cisneros, features impressive Renaissance and Plateresque architecture and is one of Spain's oldest universities. Each year, it hosts the prestigious Cervantes Prize for Spanish literature. Calle Mayor, the city's main street, stretches nearly a kilometer and is lined with arcades, making it one of Europe's longest covered streets filled with traditional shops and cafés. The Cathedral-Magistral of Saints Justus and Pastor is a rare Gothic church with great historical importance. The Complutum archaeological site showcases well-preserved Roman mosaics, baths, and villa remains from the ancient city that came before medieval Alcalá. The Corral de Comedias, built in 1601, is Europe's oldest preserved theater and still hosts performances in its original setting. Alcalá blends literary history, university life, Roman ruins, and a true Castilian atmosphere, all just a short trip from Madrid.
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What to See in Marbella — Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Jürgen Müller
04
December,
2025
Marbella, the jewel of Spain's Costa del Sol, blends historic charm with Mediterranean glamour, making it one of Europe's most exclusive resort destinations. The atmospheric Old Town (Casco Antiguo) captivates with whitewashed buildings, flower-draped balconies, and the orange-tree-filled Plaza de los Naranjos, dating to the Reconquista era following centuries of Moorish rule. Just kilometers away, Puerto Banús Marina showcases superyachts, designer boutiques, and waterfront restaurants where the international jet-set congregates. The city's 27 kilometers of beaches stretch along the Mediterranean, offering golden sand, beach clubs, and water sports from the center to San Pedro de Alcántara. The promenade connecting Marbella to Puerto Banús provides scenic coastal walks past palm trees and luxury villas. The 16th-century Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación and remnants of Moorish walls demonstrate the city's layered history beneath its modern sophistication. Marbella combines cultural heritage, year-round sunshine, golf courses, and an upscale lifestyle, creating Costa del Sol's most glamorous destination.
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What to See in Salamanca: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Liam O'Connell
04
December,
2025
Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage city in western Spain's Castilla y León region, known for its golden sandstone buildings that have earned it the nickname "La Dorada" (The Golden City). It is home to Spain's oldest university, founded in 1218, and is rich in academic traditions, including the famous frog legend on the University's ornate Plateresque façade. The impressive Plaza Mayor, often called Spain's most beautiful baroque square, is full of student life, tapas bars, and evening strolls under its elegant arcades. Two cathedrals, one Romanesque and one Gothic, stand side by side, showing the city's architectural history. Other highlights include the Casa de las Conchas with its shell-covered façade, the Clerecia's baroque towers with panoramic views, and the Roman bridge over the Tormes River. Just 90 minutes from Madrid, Salamanca offers a mix of historic monuments, a lively student scene, and authentic Castilian culture.
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What to See in León: Itinerary, Highlights, and Tours
Sofia Ricci
03
December,
2025
León is a historic city in northwest Spain’s Castilla y León region. It draws visitors with its impressive Gothic cathedral, called "Pulchra Leonina" (Beautiful Leonese), which has Europe’s largest collection of medieval stained glass windows. Once an ancient Roman settlement, León became a key stop on the Camino de Santiago and is filled with architectural treasures from Roman walls to Gaudí’s Casa Botines. The cathedral’s 125 stained glass windows, covering 1,800 square meters, fill the interior with colorful light and make it Spain’s top Gothic masterpiece. The Royal Pantheon in the Basilica of San Isidoro, often called the "Sistine Chapel of Romanesque" for its 12th-century frescoes, preserves outstanding medieval art. Barrio Húmedo, or the Wet Quarter, is famous for its many tapas bars, where León’s tradition of free tapas with every drink makes it a great value for food lovers.
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What to See in Segovia: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Antoine Dubois
03
December,
2025
Segovia is a UNESCO World Heritage city set on a rocky ridge northwest of Madrid. It draws visitors with three main landmarks: the well-preserved Roman Aqueduct, a fairytale-like Alcázar castle, and a tall Gothic cathedral. Founded by the Romans and shaped by Christian, Jewish, and Moorish cultures, Segovia displays architecture from every era of Spanish history. The 2,000-year-old Roman Aqueduct, made of 167 granite arches without any mortar, is one of the world's most impressive ancient engineering works still in use today. The Alcázar's towers and clifftop setting are said to have inspired Disney's Cinderella Castle, while the Gothic cathedral, known as "The Lady of Spanish Cathedrals," stands out in Plaza Mayor. Only 30 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train, Segovia is an ideal day trip, blending Roman, medieval, and Renaissance sights with its famous roast suckling pig.
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What to See in Ubeda: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Iryna Neiman
02
December,
2025
Úbeda, located in the olive-rich province of Jaén in Andalusia, is home to one of Spain's best-preserved Renaissance architectural collections and was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003. Known as the "stone-carved city," it features impressive 16th-century palaces, churches, and plazas, built when the local nobility turned their medieval fortress into a Renaissance showpiece during the reign of Emperor Charles V. The Plaza Vázquez de Molina is a highlight, with the Sacred Chapel of the Savior, grand palaces, and beautiful stone buildings forming a stunning example of Renaissance design. As you wander Úbeda's winding streets, you'll find hidden patios, Renaissance courtyards, and charming squares that feel unchanged since the 1500s. Only 10 kilometers from Baeza, Úbeda offers a true taste of Andalusian culture, surrounded by vast olive groves in Spain's top olive oil-producing area.
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What to See in La Coruna: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Antoine Dubois
02
December,
2025
A Coruña (La Coruña) sits on the northwestern tip of Spain’s Galicia region and draws visitors with its mix of Roman history and modern architecture. Known as the "City of Glass" for its white glazed balconies, or galerías, the city’s waterfront sparkles with glass-fronted buildings. The Tower of Hercules, the world’s only working Roman lighthouse, has guided ships for almost 2,000 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re relaxing on Atlantic beaches, learning about María Pita’s bravery, strolling through gardens, or enjoying fresh Galician seafood, A Coruña gives you a true Spanish coastal experience away from the usual tourist spots.
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What to See in Baeza: Itinerary, Highlights and Tours
Ava Sterling
01
December,
2025
Baeza is one of Spain's smallest UNESCO World Heritage cities and is known for its impressive Renaissance architecture in the heart of Andalusia's olive-growing region. Often called the "Andalusian Salamanca," it features many 16th-century palaces, churches, and university buildings that turned this former medieval fortress into a Renaissance gem. As you walk along Baeza's honey-colored stone streets, you can see traces of civilizations from the Bronze Age, the Moors, and the Christians. The poet Antonio Machado taught French here from 1912 to 1919 and described it as "a damp and cold town, ramshackle and gloomy, between Andalusian and La Mancha." Today, visitors find Baeza charming, peaceful, and very well preserved.
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What to See in Toledo: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Iryna Neiman
01
December,
2025
Toledo, Spain's former capital, perched dramatically on a hilltop above the Tagus River, preserves over 2,000 years of history within its medieval walls. Known as the "City of Three Cultures," Toledo showcases the extraordinary coexistence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage through its magnificent cathedral, ancient mosques, and historic synagogues. The entire Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with labyrinthine cobblestone streets, stunning panoramic views, and masterpieces by El Greco, who lived and worked here for decades. Just 30 minutes by train from Madrid, Toledo offers an immersive journey through the cultural and religious complexity of medieval Spain.
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What to See in Palma de Mallorca: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Jürgen Müller
29
November,
2025
Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, blends impressive Gothic architecture with Mediterranean beach life along one of Europe's most scenic waterfronts. The towering La Seu Cathedral, one of the world's tallest Gothic buildings, stands out on the seafront, while narrow medieval streets lead through the Old Town past ancient Arab baths, baroque palaces, and modernist buildings. In addition to its historic sites, Palma features lively markets, great tapas bars, beautiful beaches, and a dining scene that mixes traditional Mallorcan dishes with modern Mediterranean flavors.
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What to See in Santiago de Compostela: Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Alexandra Dubakova
27
November,
2025
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia and the final stop on the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. It is one of Spain's most important spiritual and architectural cities. The impressive Cathedral, believed to hold the remains of Saint James the Apostle, stands at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Here, granite-paved medieval streets lead past old monasteries, baroque palaces, and lively arcaded plazas. Santiago is also known for its energetic student life, excellent Galician food like pulpo á feira and Albariño wine, and a historic center that is perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace.
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What to See in Almería — Itinerary, Highlights & Tours
Liam O'Connell
26
November,
2025
Almería is the sunniest city in Andalusia, blending Moorish history with striking desert scenery and beautiful Mediterranean beaches. The huge Alcazaba fortress, one of Spain's largest, stands out on the skyline, while the fortified cathedral shows how the city defended itself from pirate attacks for centuries. This lesser-known part of southern Spain has real Andalusian charm without the crowds. The nearby Tabernas Desert was the setting for many Spaghetti Westerns, and the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park protects unspoiled coastline with volcanic cliffs and hidden coves. Almería’s food features simple but tasty dishes like ajo colorao (red garlic stew), reflecting its farming and fishing roots. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, Almería is a great place to visit any time. You can explore Moorish palaces with city views, visit Civil War shelters under the streets, or enjoy fresh seafood in local tapas bars. This Freetour.com guide will help you find the city’s top sights, best food, and hidden gems, with expert tips for every stop.
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What to See in Tarragona in 1 Day — Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Alexandra Dubakova
25
November,
2025
Tarragona sits on Catalonia's Costa Daurada (Golden Coast) and is home to some of Europe's most impressive Roman ruins. Once the capital of Hispania Tarraconensis, Rome's largest province in Iberia, Tarragona was a major cultural, political, and military center. Today, you can visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like the seaside amphitheatre, Roman circus, and ancient city walls that bring history to life. The city also features a beautiful Gothic cathedral, the scenic Balcony of the Mediterranean (Balcó del Mediterrani), and lively Catalan traditions. Enjoy local dishes such as calçots with romesco sauce and fresh seafood. Golden beaches line the coast, and the historic center is perfect for a relaxed stroll. Whether you're admiring ancient arenas, touching the famous balcony's iron railing for luck, or tasting local food, Tarragona offers memorable experiences without big crowds. This Freetour.com guide will help you discover the city's top sights, food, and history, with helpful tips for each stop.
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What to See in Santander in 1 Day — Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Sofia Ricci
24
November,
2025
Santander is the capital of Cantabria on Spain's northern coast. The city blends elegant Belle Époque buildings with beautiful Bay of Biscay beaches. After a major fire in 1941 destroyed its medieval center, Santander rebuilt itself into a modern and welcoming place. The Palacio de la Magdalena sits on a green peninsula overlooking the bay, and the two El Sardinero beaches are among the best in northern Spain. Santander also has top cultural spots like the Centro Botín, designed by Renzo Piano, a rebuilt Gothic cathedral, and lively tapas bars serving fresh seafood. Its maritime history, royal ties, and true northern Spanish feel make it a great alternative to crowded Mediterranean cities. You can walk along the waterfront, try rabas (fried squid) in local taverns, or visit prehistoric caves nearby. This Freetour.com guide will help you find the city's main sights, best food, and hidden gems, with helpful tips for each stop.
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