Spain is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world. Stunning architecture, historic churches, gorgeous beaches, delicious cuisine, and an atmosphere that begs you to fall in love all over again are just a few things that make Spain unforgettable.
From beach towns to cosmopolitan cities and dramatic islands, these are the best honeymoon destinations in Spain!
Seville
Known for its ornate historical buildings and tradition of passionate Flamenco dance, Seville is a beautiful city with Old World charm. It excludes the kind of warmth that makes you want to stay forever.
As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of the city center, you’ll see magnificent palaces, grand Gothic cathedrals, and expansive plazas shaded by palm trees. Seville is one of the best places in the country for viewing stunning architecture. You’ll hear the gentle lilt of a guitar, and you won’t feel the stress often associated with big cities. Make sure you watch a Flamenco show and take a romantic boat ride down the Guadalquivir River.
Gran Canaria
However, if you’re craving beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, Gran Canaria is the perfect honeymoon destination. As one of the Canary Islands, it is located in the Mediterranean and enjoys warm weather year-round.
While there are a few pristine beaches in the area, most are designed for tourism and offer plenty of services to keep you comfortable. Playa de las Canteras is easy to access and is the main beach in Las Palmas (the biggest city). Here you can lounge on the sand, take a stroll along the promenade, or eat at one of the many beachside restaurants. On the other hand, Playa del Inglés offers exciting nightlife and there are several excellent resorts with all-inclusive options.
Lanzarote
If Gran Canaria is too commercial for you, Lanzarote is an excellent alternative. This island is renowned for its surreal landscape, which features volcanic outcroppings, huge lava fields, white sand beaches with the bluest water, and craters that look like they belong on the moon. Make sure to explore the volcanic formations at Timanfaya National Park and visit the Cueva de los Verdes (a series of breathtaking lava caves).
There are a variety of accommodations, including luxury resorts and wellness retreats. After a day at the peaceful beaches or exploring the mountains, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or a glass of local wine. While Lanzarote is not a nightlife hotspot, it is the kind of place where adventurous souls can unwind.
San Sebastian
Located on the coast of mountainous Basque Country, San Sebastian is the number one destination for foodies who love stunning beaches. There are 11 Michelin-starred restaurants with a total of 19 Michelin stars.
The most famous restaurant is definitely Arzak (3 stars). It features modern Basque fare and is considered one of the best restaurants in Europe. However, the non-Michelin-starred eateries are also amazing. Make sure to try Txangurro (crab served in a rich tomato sauce), Pintxos (Basque-style tapas), and the local T-bone steak. In terms of beaches, Playa de la Concha (La Concha Beach) features crystal-clear waters and is one of the best urban beaches in the country.
Cádiz
Situated on a piece of land jutting into the sea, this port city is one of the oldest in Europe. It’s also one of the best places for honeymooning in AndalucÃa. It offers a combination of picturesque beaches, truly ancient historical sites, and gorgeous sunsets.
As the sun sinks over the Atlantic, it casts a vivid golden glow over the Castillo de San Sebastian and the white stone buildings. Take an evening stroll along the cobbled streets or stop at one of the rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city. Venture into the Andalucian countryside and sample some of the famous wines. While sherry is the must-try drink, the seafood should be added to your must-eat list.
Barcelona
No list of the best honeymoon destinations in Spain would be complete without Barcelona. Famous for the whimsical architecture of GaudÃ, huge city beaches, and some of the best nightlife in Europe, Barcelona also offers a wide range of honeymoon-worthy accommodations.
While a visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia and the colorful mosaics of Park Güell are a must, feasting on the delicious tapas should also be a high priority. The tapas scene in Barcelona is truly something special. Imagine sitting at a table on a busy sidewalk while sipping a glass of cava and sampling a rich variety of delicacies. Our favorite tapas are Gambas al Ajillo (shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil), Jamón Ibérico (cured ham), and Montaditos (open-faced sandwiches topped with smoked salmon and cheese).
Menorca (Minorca)
If the sandy beaches are Barcelona are too crowded for you, head to the tranquil beaches of Menorca. Boasting soft white sand and azure waters tucked away in secluded coves, Menorca is known for its natural beauty and coastal trails. You don’t have to be a hiking fanatic to enjoy the coastal walks on this beautiful island.
There are many local villages with an easy charm and a slower pace of life. Here you can shop at the traditional markets, try new dishes, and enjoy simply spending your time in such a delightful environment. While there are many luxury hotels, the boutique stays and B&Bs offer a more authentic experience. Menorca is also a great destination for couples who enjoy being outdoors. Cycling, hiking, kayaking, swimming, and sailing are all popular activities.
Santiago de Compostela
Located in the Galicia region, Santiago de Compostela is best known as the final stop along the Camino de Santiago and an uncommon honeymoon destination. The Camino is a network of Catholic pilgrimage sites that has become a famous walking route for people of all types. It takes 30 days to complete, which is more than most people can allot to their honeymoons.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t visit Santiago de Compostela. The beautiful architecture features Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, which creates an atmosphere of historic charm. After exploring the narrow streets, head to one of the spas for a relaxing treatment. You can also take a trip into the countryside where you will discover lush national parks that few travelers experience.
Granada
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is a gem in the AndalucÃa region. The fabled architecture featured Moorish influences that can be seen in the iconic Alhambra Palace. This palace is one of the main attractions and the best example of Islamic architecture in Spain.
Granada is composed of narrow streets, tiny shops, local cafes, terraced courtyards, and manicured gardens. Here life is slow and you can forget the rigors of everyday life. Watch dramatic flamenco performances at tablaos (flamenco bars) or shop for local goods at the AlcaicerÃa Market. For outdoorsy couples, we recommend taking a day trip to the Sierra Nevada Mountains where you can take in panoramic views of the area.
Córdoba
Located in the AndalucÃa region, Córdoba is another enchanting city with Moorish influences and a slightly warmer climate than neighboring Granada. Córdoba is also less busy so it’s an ideal location for couples seeking an authentic experience.
Like Granada, this city is known for its white-washed buildings and lush gardens overflowing with flowers. Visit the black and gold Mezquita Cathedral, which was originally a mosque, but has been transformed into a Catholic church. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic fortresses or relax in an Arabian-style spa complex (Hammam Al Andalus is our favorite). In the evening, enjoy a romantic dinner along the Guadalquivir River where you can try Salmorejo (a chilled tomato soup garnished with Serrano ham).
Ibiza
If you are seeking non-stop nightlife and world-class clubs, there is no better honeymoon destination than Ibiza. Situated in the azure Mediterranean waters, Ibiza is definitely the most famous of the Balearic islands. Dance the night away at Amnesia or relax at one of the sophisticated beach clubs.
Cotton Beach Club provides breathtaking sea views from the comfort of your cabana, while Ushuaïa Beach Club is known for its non-stop parties that still keep it classy. Fresh seafood served with a bottle of chilled cava is the perfect addition to the vivid sunsets. While the beaches can get crowded, they offer all of the amenities you need for a truly over-the-top and romantic honeymoon. Snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and beach volleyball are just a few of the activities you can enjoy.
Cadaqués
If Ibiza is way too over-the-top for you, let us introduce Cadaqués. Located along the peaceful headlands of Costa Brava, this coastal town boasts rocky coves, peaceful beaches, and white-washed buildings.
It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a busy honeymoon itinerary to feel fully satisfied with your day. Simply wake up to the sound of the waves, take a stroll along the picturesque streets, and enjoy a slow breakfast. Walk along a coastal trail to the beach, read a book in a café, or pop into the boutiques. Snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking are all popular activities, but you will never feel pressured to join a tour. The seafood is fresh, and you have to try Suquet de Peix (a fragrant fish stew) and Fideuà (it’s like Paella but served with rice noodles).
Sierra de Grazalema
Located in the mountains of Southern Spain, this off-the-beaten-path destination is best for adventurous couples who love nature. Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and towering mountains dotted with tiny, white villages, Sierra de Grazalema is both a park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Embark on epic hikes along hilltops and through ancient fir forests. Horseback riding, birdwatching, rock climbing, and bungee jumping are all popular activities. While you won’t find any 5-star resorts, you can stay at rustic cabins in quaint villages or homey B&Bs. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic destination without crowds, Sierra de Grazalema is the best choice.
Madrid
The capital of Spain is a great honeymoon destination simply because there are so many things to do. Madrid feels more alive than almost any European city we’ve visited. While we wouldn’t recommend this destination for couples who crave solitude, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of culture, romance, and socializing.
Start by visiting some of the iconic attractions, such as the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and the Almudena Cathedral. Shop for luxury goods, clothing, and souvenirs in the airconditioned malls or artisan neighborhoods (you can’t miss Malasaña and Chueca). However, make sure you take a siesta (afternoon rest) because nighttime is when the city really comes alive. Trendy rooftop lounges, tapas bars filled with locals, dance clubs, and live music venues – Madrid has it all!
Marbella
Situated along the shores of Costa del Sol, Marbella offers the perfect combination of beautiful beaches, easygoing nightlife, and luxurious resorts. This is a great choice for couples who simply want to relax on their Spanish honeymoon.
It’s also a good option for golf enthusiasts. In fact, there are several exceptional golf courses nearby, including Valderrama Golf Club (it’s one of the best courses in Europe) and Los Naranjos Golf Club (it has stunning mountain views). In addition, we love the beachfront resorts in Marbella because the views are amazing and many offer honeymoon suites or villas. Check out the ocean-view suites at Puente Romano Beach Resort!
Zaragoza
Another lesser-known destination, Zaragoza offers delicious cuisine, intriguing folklore, and beautiful buildings. According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to the Apostle James in this very city. Another local folktale is The Lovers of Teruel, which is similar to Romeo and Juliet.
While Zaragoza is not as busy as other cities, there is still plenty to keep you entertained. Visit the impressive AljaferÃa Palace or see the gorgeous architecture of the Basilica-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Pillar. This relaxed Spanish city is also a great jumping-off point for day trips. We recommend exploring the cascading waterfalls and mysterious caves of Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park or soaking in the thermal baths at Alhama de Aragón.
