Viva Espana! Five sun-spots just a flight away from Cork

Barcelona: A Tapestry of Culture and Charm

Ryanair flights from Cork on Mondays and Saturdays.

One of the most vibrant cities in the world, Barcelona captivates visitors with its unique mix of art, history, and modernity.

Tourists can easily spend two weeks in this, the heart of Catalonia, but a long weekend can also hit the spot.

At the heart of Barcelona’s allure is the artist Antoni Gaudí - a visionary architect whose works has shaped the city’s identity.

Gaudí’s magnum opus is the towering Sagrada Familia - a gigantic structure which, once it’s finished, will be the largest church on the planet. It’s a must-see when visiting Barcelona, and the interior is also well worth the relatively steep €26 (minimum) entry fee.

Across the city, Gaudí’s influence extends to the serene and whimsical Park Güell, where colourful mosaics meet lush greenery, and Casa Batlló, a funky residence on the iconic street eig de Gràcia. Walking through these sites is almost like stepping into an artist’s hallucinogenic fever dream - each corner filled with colour, movement, and surprise.

Apart from its beguiling collection of architectural gems, Barcelona is also a sports enthusiast mecca thanks to the close proximity of Camp Nou, the hallowed ground of iconic FC Barcelona. Even non-fans will appreciate the electric atmosphere of this world-famous stadium on game day! If no events are scheduled during your trip, the museum is also worth a visit for the truly devout.

Elsewhere, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc dazzles with nightly water and light shows, and the nearby Montjuïc Hill offers panoramic views of the city.

For a taste of local life, a stroll on La Rambla is a must. The boulevard is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers - but beware of the area’s notorious pickpockets.

Barcelona also serves as a gateway to incredible day trips. Montserrat, with its breathtaking mountain views and serene monastery, offers a tranquil escape. Sitges, a charming seaside town, is perfect for a leisurely day by the beach, while Tarragona entices with its ancient Roman ruins and quirky background in the practice of making human towers. Each destination is easily accessible and adds another layer to your Barcelona adventure.

Whether you’re lounging on Barceloneta beach, exploring architectural wonders, or embarking on a day trip, Barcelona is a top choice for Irish travellers.

Málaga: The Gateway to Andalusia

Aer Lingus/Ryanair flights from Cork daily except Monday.

While Málaga, a sun-drenched city on Spain’s famous Costa del Sol, is indeed the gateway to the enchanting region of Andalusia, the city is also a destination in its own right.

When staying in the heart of Málaga, begin your exploration with a steep (yet relatively short) climb up to the Mirador de Gibralfaro for breathtaking views of the city and its coastline. While entering the castle at the top is not essential, it can also make a nice add-on to the mini hike, just to make the effort worthwhile!

Sunset can be a particularly captivating time at the mirador, but great minds think alike - it’s also the busiest time of the day.

Elsewhere in the city, art enthusiasts will appreciate the impressive Picasso Museum, showcasing works by Málaga’s most famous son (the second most famous being the actor Antonio Banderas, who lives in a penthouse in the city centre). Those who are particularly into Picasso can visit his birthplace - a multi-storey house a two-minute walk from Antonio’s pad that has been turned into a museum exploring the artist’s life.

Nightlife in Málaga is vibrant, yet not over-the-top. You won’t find the flashy clubs you’ll find in Barcelona, but you’ll definitely find a lot of people out for a good time - particularly on weekends. The rooftop of the AC Palacio is a particularly chic spot, while the waterfront promenade, Muelle Uno, is a great area to unwind with a cocktail and enjoy marina views.

Nerja, a popular seaside town along the coast, boasts an impressive cave - home to the largest stalactite in the world, in fact. Not far from Nerja is the gorgeous ‘white’ town of Frigiliana. Together, both can be visited on the same day trip from Málaga - it’s an hour away by bus (less if you have your own rental car).

Many famous Costa del Sol towns can be easily accessed by Málaga’s frequent commuter train, with Torremolinos and Fuengirola about 30 minutes and an hour away respectively.

Further along the coast is the beautiful white town of Mijas, with its famous donkey taxis, the rich person party town of Marbella, and the incredibly unique Gibraltar with its looming rockface and signature monkey population.

Inland, Málaga opens up day trip options to the clifftop town of Ronda, the cliff-face town of Setenil de las Bodegas, and the unique city of Cordoba (the Mezquita, the world’s only dual-faith Cathedral-Mosque, is not to be missed).

Granada is also easily accessible from Málaga. If visiting in winter months, you could even go skiing - the Sierra Nevada ski resort, near Granada, is less than a two-hour drive.

Seville isn’t too far either, but it warrants more than just a day trip…

Seville: The Soul of Southern Spain

Ryanair flights from Cork on Fridays and Sundays.

Often unfairly overlooked in favour of its coastal cousins, Seville is a city of postcard-perfect views, flamenco rhythm, nightlife vibes, and cultural treasures. It may not have beaches, but it has everything else - in spades.

Most visitors begin their Seville adventure (rightly so) at its most iconic landmark - the semi-circular Plaza de España, a hive of activity day and night. While the inspired architecture - complete with grand columns, intricate ceramic tiles, and Venetian-esque canal - already makes the visit worthwhile, this is also where you’ll find street performers, impromptu flamenco performances, and a musician or two (or ten).

If you can brave the queue for the boats, you can take a leisurely jaunt around the waters of the open canal, slowly drifting through this traditional, and timeless, location.

Catapulting you into the modern day, or even into the future, is another must-see - the Setas de Sevilla. In Spanish, setas means mushrooms - and it’s not hard to see how this huge, contemporary, wooden, fungi-inspired structure got its name. The structure of the Setas, sometimes referred to as the Metropol Parasol, towers over the street below, providing a stark contrast to its historic surroundings. It’s not just a piece of art though - visitors can enter this impressive structure and travel right up to the roof (the relatively flat, yet undulating, top of the ‘mushrooms’) for unparalleled panoramic views of the city. 

Time your visit just before sunset and you’ll get the best of all worlds - experience the Setas in daylight, at sunset, and also see the dynamic lights of the structure come on after dark. It’s an incredible sight that will stay with you long after you leave Spanish shores.

Meanwhile, Seville’s old town is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and buzzing tapas bars. Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, is an awe-inspiring sight that demands attention. Climbing to the top of the Giralda Tower rewards you with panoramic views over the city.

For those seeking an even more unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride just outside the city. Nature lovers will also love the proximity of the unique Doñana National Park - home to the elusive Iberian lynx and 230 bird species, including far too many flamingos plus the formidable Spanish imperial eagle.

Valencia: Where Tradition Meets Futurism

Ryanair flights from Cork on Mondays and Saturdays.

There is something for everyone in Spain’s third-largest city - the bustling coastal metropolis of Valencia. An intriguing blend of big city and coastal getaway, it is traditional yet cosmopolitan with great beach vibes.

Valencia’s most iconic landmark is the futuristic complex of the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias. While home to a science museum, an aquarium, a planetarium, an opera house, and more, most visitors prefer to mill around outside, marvelling at the crystal clear fountain waters, squinting up into the sunlight to the looming, spacecraft-like structures, or, predictably, taking selfies on the giant ‘VALENCIA’ letters located on one of the central walkways.

Fun-seekers can rent a water bicycle, a see-through kayak, or an aquatic zorb ball for some wholesome thrills on the fountains. Depending on your dates, you might even catch an event - some nights the area doubles up as a unique, outdoor concert venue complete with big name acts and even the occasional fireworks show.

A short walk away, the city’s historic heart presents a striking contrast. Begin at the Catedral de Valencia, a Gothic masterpiece that is one of many Spanish churches and cathedrals that claims to house the Holy Grail. Its ornate interior and climbable Micalet bell tower are worth a visit.

Nearby, the Plaza de la Virgen is a lively square where locals and tourists mingle, framed by fountains, churches, and café terraces perfect for people-watching.

Relaxation happens at the beach, of course, with Cabanyal, Malvarrosa and Patacona being the three main city ones. Near Cabanyal you’ll also find a luxurious, relaxing spa at the Hotel las Arenas Balneario resort. Surprisingly, a day here won’t break the bank.

For foodies, Valencia’s Central Market is an unmissable highlight, while horchata, an odd yet popular drink made of tiger nuts is worth a try. Valencia is also the birthplace of the iconic dish paella,now synonymous with Spanish life.

Finally, for those seeking natural beauty, the Albufera Natural Park is just a short trip from the city. This serene haven features a freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice paddies, where traditional boat rides offer a glimpse into Valencia’s agricultural heritage. It’s an idyllic escape for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a quiet moment away from the city buzz.

Alicante: Sun, Sea, and Serenity

Ryanair flights from Cork on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Nestled on Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca, Alicante offers a laidback Mediterranean escape. Best known for its golden beaches and inviting climate, this destination is a haven for those seeking sun, sea, and sangria.

The Explanada de España, a gorgeous, palm-lined promenade, is the heart of the city. Its 6.5 million colourful mosaic tiles create a vibrant backdrop for leisurely strolls (think street performers and market stalls) while the nearby Postiguet Beach is ideal for soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing dip in the azure waters.

For a taste of Alicante’s history, venture up Santa Bárbara Castle, perched high on Mount Benacantil. Dating back to the 9th century, this impressive structure offers not only a journey through time but also breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. While the climb to the top is an adventure in itself, an elevator carved into the mountain provides a more leisurely route.

Alicante’s historic charm extends to its old town, simply referred to as El Barrio (‘The Neighbourhood’). A maze of narrow, winding streets, El Barrio is a treasure trove of vibrant bars, atmospheric restaurants, and beautifully preserved architecture. 

By day, the area is perfect for exploring quaint corners and traditional markets. By night, it transforms into a lively hub, buzzing with music and partygoers.

For anyone looking to explore beyond the city, a number of choices are on offer. First and foremost would be the stunning island of Tabarca. Located only around an hour away by boat, Tabarca is a haven for nature-lovers and for snorkelling aficionados. While the area is small, it’s a designated marine reserve which features crystal-clear waters and a vibrant marine life.

Another worthwhile day trip would be inland to the impressive Canelobre Caves. In this otherworldly, subterranean wonderland, you can marvel at some stalactites and stalagmites.

Wherever you end up, you’ll find Alicante’s Mediterranean lifestyle inviting you to slow down, savour every moment, and do things ‘poco a poco’ (little by little). After a day or two, this slowly, slowly attitude begins to take hold.

Whether you’re slowly savouring your morning coffee at a seaside café, meandering through the city’s historic streets, or lounging in the sun on one of Alicante’s gloriously golden beaches, one thing is certain - you’re going home a lot more relaxed than when you arrived.

In part three of our series next Monday, we assess Venice and Rome in Italy, and Paris and Lyon in .