From flamenco to festivals: Exploring Spain’s top 5 unique experiences

Spain is a classic. Whether you’re after a solo trip, a family holiday, a couples escape or a getaway with friends, Spain is the perfect all-rounder. It has beautiful beaches, stunning cities and fascinating history in between. 

According to our Holiday Habits report, 52% of people plan to travel to Europe for a holiday this year, and Spain takes the top spot of the 10 countries people are planning to visit. 

Not surprised? Neither are we! But we’re sure you know all about the popular things to see and do, as well as the never-ending list of the best resorts and cities to visit. 

So, what can you do in Spain aside from popular tourist traps? The next time you plan on visiting this sensational country, think about adding these fun must-try activities to your trip instead.  

 

Visit a Spanish festival 

The Spanish sure know how to put on a fiesta, and luckily, there are loads of fun festivals you can visit throughout the year. Spanish festivals are perhaps some of the best places to go to if you’re looking to fill up on traditional food and drink. 

For example, Seville’s Feria de Abril or April Fair which starts two weeks after Easter offers up a whole lot of fun, including the setup of a bunch of casetas or tents which offer tapas, drinks, music and live entertainment. 

However, if you’re looking for something completely different, then head to La Tomatina in the Valencian town of Buñol. It takes place on the last Wednesday of August each year, and thousands of people take part in what is essentially a huge food fight… with tomatoes! 

 Stars in El Teide

 

Chase the stars in El Teide

Tenerife is a popular year-round destination, thanks to its fabulous beaches and a fantastic climate to match. But have you ever thought about going stargazing in Tenerife? 

Tenerife’s rugged and volcanic landscape lends itself to this fascinating pastime as its peaks are away from light pollution. The island’s Teide National Park has been recognised as a “Starlight Destination” meaning its night time skies have the perfect conditions to witness the stars. 

El Teide is an amazing backdrop to experience Tenerife’s dark sky, and you’ll find many guides and tours that’ll take you to see the stars and educate you on constellations, phenomena and more. 

 

Watch the flamenco 

Heaps of passion and emotion shown through music, song and dance… there’s nothing quite like watching the flamenco live. 

The flamenco is perhaps one of the most raw and thrilling artistic expressions to experience, and there’s no better place to witness it than in its homeland. 

Andalucia is the birthplace of flamenco and it’s still one of the very best regions to watch a performance. Andalucia is a massive place, so each particular area boasts its own style. You can find flamenco performances all over Andalucia, but some of the best places to watch it are Seville, Jerez de la Frontera, Grenada and Cordoba. 

Of course, if you don’t happen to go to Andalucia on your Spanish holiday there are still plenty of places around Spain you can find flamenco shows, and it’s well worth taking a look at where the best shows are once you know your destination.   

 

Eat and drink at a chiringuito 

Fancy a really local experience? Then head to a Spanish chiringuito! 

A chiringuito is a small beach bar and you’ll find loads along Spain’s coastline. In fact, visiting a chiringuito is one of the most tantilising gastronomic adventures in Spain.

Let us tell you, there’s nothing quite like savouring fresh fish and seafood grilled over open flames with a stunning view of the sea and sand. Some chiringuitos will also boast a tapas menu, as well as thirst-quenching drinks like sangria, local wines and una cerveza o dos. 

A lot of Spain’s chiringuitos offer up a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a time out from the hustle and bustle of city life. But a lot of chiringuitos can also show you a good time too with live music and entertainment.

 

Sant Bartomeu de Sóller, Mallorca

Take the train to Sóller

If an island getaway to the Balearics tickles your fancy, then consider a trip to Mallorca. A great all-rounder, Mallorca is home to the beautiful town of Sóller. And the journey from the capital of Palma to Sóller is well worth the trip. 

Step aboard a wooden panelled train in Palma and you’ll soon be taken on an hour and 30 minute journey through amazing mountain scenery including viaducts, bridges and 13 tunnels. 

Once you reach Sóller you can enjoy peaceful walks through the town’s quaint streets, or admire the beauty of the town’s main square, Plaza de la Constitución. 

One way tickets are around 20€, whilst a return ticket is around 28€. 

 

There you have it! 5 incredibly fun and unique experiences in Spain. If you’re thinking about booking a Spanish holiday, find an ABTA member and book with confidence.