Spain is a country built for exploration. From the lively streets of Madrid and Barcelona to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol, the dramatic cliffs of the Basque Coast and the vineyards of La Rioja. Every drive reveals a new landscape and story. The country is full of variety, with snow-capped mountains in the Pyrenees, fertile plains in Andalusia and medieval villages tucked into hillsides. Each region has its own culture, flavors and traditions waiting to be discovered on the road.
Traveling through Spain is a journey for the senses. You can stroll through the historic Alhambra in Granada, savor tapas in a Seville square or experience the passion of flamenco in small villages in Andalusia. The country is alive with festivals, local markets and colorful streets where history meets everyday life.
Spain is a land of contrasts and surprises. Ancient Roman aqueducts, Moorish palaces, Gothic cathedrals and modern architecture stand side by side. From the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast to the green hills of Galicia, the country wants you to explore, taste and immerse themselves in its beauty.
Spain in a nutshell
- Population 49.3 million people (2025)
- Capital Madrid
- Citizens are Spanish
- Native languages are Spanish (official), Catalan, Galician, Basque
- Local currency Euro
- Size 506.030 km²
The Big Four
Fun Facts
- King of Olive Oil Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil, making up about 40-45% of global production. The country has over 2.7 million hectares dedicated to olive groves. Most of it comes from Andalusia, which produces around 75% of the country's olive oil.
- World's largest food fight Spain hosts the world’s largest food fight, La Tomatina, every August in the town of Buñol, where thousands of participants throw over 150,000 tomatoes at each other for an hour. Participants squash the tomatoes before throwing.
- Europe's only desert Spain is the only European country with an actual desert. The Tabernas Desert has been the backdrop for countless Western films. A landscape that feels completely different from Spain’s coasts and mountains.
- Birth place of Flamenco the iconic Flamenco dance ritual was born in southern Spain in the 18th century as a powerful cultural expression. Flamenco is characterized by passionate singing, intricate guitar playing and intense dance. Symbolizing resilience and deep emotion.
Explore the regions
Spain's history
Spain’s history is full of conquest. The Iberian Peninsula was home to ancient tribes like the Iberians and Celts. Phoenicians and Greeks established trading posts along the coast and the Romans built cities, roads and aqueducts that still shape the country today. Roman law, architecture and language left a lasting legacy that travelers can see in ruins from Tarragona to Mérida.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Spain became a land of kingdoms. The Visigoths ruled for centuries before the Moors arrived in the eighth century, bringing new architecture, science, and agriculture. Cities like Córdoba and Granada flourished as centers of learning and culture.
The Reconquista, a long series of wars to reclaim territory from the Moors, eventually united Christian kingdoms under a single crown. In 1492, Spain reached a turning point with the completion of the Reconquista, the sponsorship of Columbus’s voyage to the Americas and the start of a global empire.
Over the following centuries Spain experienced periods of power, wealth, and challenge. The Spanish Empire became one of the largest in history, spreading language, art and culture across the world. Later, wars, revolutions and changing governments shaped modern Spain.
Spain’s rich past can be discovered through ancient castles, Moorish palaces, Gothic cathedrals and historic streets.