Spain Travel

If you are looking for that relaxing Spain vacation where beauty and history abound, look no further. Spain is an extremely “Tourist Friendly” country that is full of wonderful history, culture, traditions and beautiful people. It is a great value for the dollar and you will find it very easy to maneuver around in this country. You can take in so much of Madrid alone, or venture out on day trips to surrounding cities which are full of history. I know because I have been to Spain several times and it is by far and away one of my most favorite travel destinations. It is my pleasure to share my Spain vacation with you first hand! It's also very inexpensive to travel in Spain as compared to some European countries.

In Madrid alone, the history and culture there is enormous. From the downtown buildings that are full of beauty and history to the cultural display of matadors and bulls at Las Ventas in the district of Salamanca. Even the Post Office in Madrid is a sight to behold. This grand structure rises far into the sky with such amazing architectural detail that anyone would love a photo op with. There is shopping during the day to a night out watching an exciting Flamenco show in one of several venues around town. If you shop, be sure and pick up some Lladro and Damasquinado. Lladro is fine porcelain that is made in Tavernes Blanques, Valencia. You will get deep discounts when you buy Lladro in Spain versus buying it here in America. Be sure to pick up some pieces of Damasquinado. This is the fine art of decorating precious metals with gold, typically done on a dark background in various types of scrollwork. This art form originated during the middle ages. You won’t want to leave Spain without some of this beautiful work. While you are out shopping, be sure and try some of the local cuisine. Indulge yourself in a wide variety of wonderful Spanish dishes offered by the locals such as Paella (Seasoned Rice Dish), Pescado Frito (Fried Fish), and Cochinillo Asado (Roasted Suckling Pig) to name a few.

Before you leave Madrid, don’t forget to visit the Royal Palace as well as the Plaza Mayor. The Plaza Mayor is a major tourist attraction of architectural beauty which has been home to many exciting events over the decades. Plaza Mayor has been the location of bullfights, soccer games, markets, and even public executions which were held during the Spanish Inquisition. Be sure to take in the Royal Palace on your trip. With its Royal Guard that stands on ready at the gates of the palace, to the beautiful rooms which are full of history. This palatial estate is the official resident of the King of Spain, Juan Carlos.

If you are ready to broaden your horizon now by seeing more of Spain, head to the local train station in Madrid for a relaxing ride.  At the station Atocha, you will find one of the most convenient and affordable ways to explore more of Spain.  There are numerous cities that you can visit in a day.  Such excursions can cost less than the cost of a meal for two.  You can literally walk up to the ticket booth and say you want a ticket, without reservations I might add, and board the train and be in another city within an hour or so. 

Some of the one day trips should include the town of Segovia.  It has a very uniquely shaped castle called Alcazar that you must see.  It also has a very well preserved Roman Aqueduct monument that you pass on the way to the castle.  These are both located within a few miles of the train station.  Another one day trip that should be included is El Escorial.  There is a huge monastery there called San Lorenzo de El Escorial which is a massive structure full of history and they offer daily tours.    

One of my personal favorites that you should not miss, is a day trip to the beautiful and ancient old city of Toledo located in central Spain.  This town can be seen in a day, however, there is so much history there as well as the fact that you will love the feeling you get from this beautiful and romantic city that you will want for more.  With all there is to see, you may want to plan a couple of days there.   Toledo stands surrounded by an old stone wall with quaint little shops that wind through the hills of the town.  They have a beautiful cathedral in town that you should see also.  Don’t miss this town! 

Even if you decided never to set foot off the train, the countryside of Spain is absolutely beautiful and will take your breath away.  If you are looking for a more lengthy vacation, you can take overnight trips to many other destinations in Spain.   This will take a little more planning, preparation and time on your part, but well worth it.   From Seville to Barcelona and more, Spain is sure not to disappoint.