Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, Basilica of Saint John of God
City of Arts and Sciences, Oceanogràfic València, Bioparc Valencia
Picasso Museum Málaga, Costa del Sol, La Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnacion
Cathedral de Mallorca, Palma Aquarium, FAN Mallorca Shopping
Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda, Puente Nuevo. Centro de Interpretación, El Tajo de Ronda
Looking for things to do in Spain? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Spain dishes and foodie spots.
Taking diners on a little journey through premium pork cuts from around the world, each with its own distinct texture and flavour! . We started with an appetiser platter of tofu, potato salad and truffle edamame before moving on to a selection of premium pork cuts from the two tasting menus, Gensen ($38++) and Gokusen ($48++). . Across the two menus, we sampled Hire Katsu from Canada, U.S. Kurobuta, Hungarian Mangalica, Sangenton Hire Katsu from Hokkaido and Iberico Rosu Katsu from Spain. Each was coated in a golden, crispy panko crust, with the meat remaining tender and juicy within. I enjoyed the variety, as tasting the different cuts side by side made the meal more interesting. . The experience rounded off with a comforting Mini Wagyu Menchi Katsu Curry Rice, followed by Matcha Ice Cream for dessert. . Also new on the menu is Shin Katsu's Katsu Sando collection, featuring crispy panko-fried pork cutlets sandwiched between soft, fluffy Japanese shokupan. Available in both Rosu (loin) and Hire (fillet) varieties, these are another satisfying way to enjoy their katsu!
Seville is the kind of city that stays with you long after you leave. From grand Moorish palaces and soaring Gothic architecture to orange-tree-lined streets and sun-drenched plazas, the Andalusian capital is bursting with character. Here, centuries of history meet the passion of flamenco, creating one of Spain’s most captivating destinations. ☀️ ⛪ 1. Seville Cathedral & La Giralda At the heart of the historic centre stands Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Step inside to discover soaring vaulted ceilings, elaborate chapels and an extraordinary sense of scale. Then look up to La Giralda, the former minaret turned bell tower that has become one of the city’s defining landmarks. Climb its ramps for sweeping views across Seville’s rooftops. 📸 🏰 2. Real Alcázar of Seville The Real Alcázar feels like stepping into another world. This royal palace blends Islamic, Mudéjar and Christian influences, with intricate geometric patterns, ornate arches and dazzling tiled walls. Outside, its gardens are just as memorable, filled with palm trees, fountains, shaded pathways and hidden corners. Allow plenty of time to explore, and book tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. 🌿 🏛️ 3. Plaza de España Few places capture Seville’s grandeur quite like Plaza de España. This monumental semicircular complex features sweeping colonnades, colourful ceramic bridges and a canal curving around its central square. Look closely at the tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces, or simply admire the architecture from beneath the covered galleries. Visit in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds. 🇪🇸 🌆 4. Las Setas de Sevilla For a completely different side of the city, head to Las Setas, officially known as Metropol Parasol. This enormous wooden structure rises above Plaza de la Encarnación, creating a striking contrast with Seville’s historic architecture. Walk along the elevated viewing platform for panoramic city views, particularly beautiful as the sun begins to set. Beneath it, you’ll find a lively square that reveals the city’s more contemporary side. 🌇 💃 5. Triana Cross the Guadalquivir River into Triana, a neighbourhood famous for its ceramic traditions, flamenco heritage and strong local identity. Explore the streets around Calle Betis, admire the colourful ceramics and soak up the atmosphere along the riverside. Triana is also a wonderful place to experience authentic flamenco in an intimate setting, where the music and dancing feel deeply connected to Andalusian culture. 🎶 🌸 6. Barrio de Santa Cruz Lose yourself in Santa Cruz, Seville’s enchanting old Jewish quarter. Narrow cobbled lanes twist between whitewashed houses, flower-filled courtyards and little squares shaded by orange trees. There’s no need to rush here. Wander through the winding streets, discover hidden architectural details and enjoy the atmosphere that makes Seville feel so romantic. Every turn seems
When visiting Granada, the Alhambra is an absolute must-see! This red palace left behind by the Moors is backed by the Sierra Nevada mountains. With its exquisite Arab carvings and flowing water courtyards, where light and shadow dance across the red walls, you will understand why it is called a "world wonder" once you see it in person. 📍Address: Alhambra, Granada (on the hillside east of Granada city) 🎫Tickets [Top priority] The Alhambra is divided into several areas. The Nasrid Palaces are the core and must be booked separately! ✅Booking channels: Book on the official website in advance; for peak season, book 1–2 months ahead! ✅Package includes: Nasrid Palaces + Alcazaba + Generalife Gardens + Palace of Charles V ✅Note: The Nasrid Palaces have strict entry times. You cannot enter if you miss your slot, so be sure to arrive at your scheduled time. 🚗Transportation ▪️Driving: Parking spaces on the old hill are very limited. Driving up is not recommended. Park in the city parking lots below and take a taxi or walk up. ▪️Bus: C3 and C4 buses go directly to the palace entrance and are cost-effective. ▪️Walking: Hiking up from the Albaicín district is a long way, suitable for those with good stamina. ✨Highlights by Area ▫️Nasrid Palaces ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The soul of the entire palace! Exquisite plaster carvings, vaulted ceilings, and flowing water courtyards create stunning light and shadow effects. The Court of the Myrtles and the Court of the Lions are iconic photo spots where you can experience the delicate aesthetics of Arab architecture. ▫️Alcazaba Thick red clay walls and jagged towers. This is the place to take classic photos of the Alhambra's red fortress, with views of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance. ▫️Generalife The Sultan's summer garden. With layers of greenery and fountains, it is quiet and refreshing—a great place to rest and stroll after visiting the palaces. ▫️Palace of Charles V A Renaissance-style circular stone palace that contrasts sharply with the Arab palaces. It houses a museum inside. 📸Photo Spots 1. Inside the Nasrid Palaces: Use the soft light to photograph the carved arches (⚠️Tripods are prohibited inside, and flash is not allowed). 2. Alcazaba walls: Capture the red fortress and the Sierra Nevada mountains in the same frame. 3. Generalife Gardens: Pool reflections and garden atmosphere. 4. Mirador de San Nicolás outside the palace: Capture a panoramic view of the Alhambra at sunset. ⏰Recommended Itinerary We recommend reserving 4–5 hours for a complete tour. 1. Enter the Nasrid Palaces at your scheduled time (do not be late). 2. Then visit the Alcazaba. 3. Stroll through the Generalife Gardens. 4. Take a quick tour of the Palace of Charles V. 5. Head down the hill in the evening to the Mirador de San Nicolás to watch the sunset over the Alhambra. 💡Practical Tips ▪️Bring your ID. Passports are checked at entry. ▪️There are no convenience stores inside. Bring your own water and some snacks, as prices on the hill are high. ▪️Wear comfortable shoes. There is a lot of uphill walking and stairs throughout. ▪️Use sun protection in summer. There is a large temperature difference between day and night; it gets cold around sunset, so bring a light jacket. ▪️The palace is crowded. Keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpockets. ▪️Flash photography is prohibited, and drone photography is not allowed in some areas. After your visit, head down the hill and stop by the old Albaicín district and the Arab markets on your way. When the setting sun dyes the red fortress a warm gold and the distant snow-capped mountains stand quietly, you will experience the unique awe of the Alhambra.
Come to Aragon, Spain, and don't miss this red sandstone town nestled in the mountains! Ochre-red stone houses are scattered along the hillside, and ancient city walls stretch along the ridge. Every corner has a retro, cinematic feel. 📍Location: Albarracín Region: Teruel Province, Aragon 🚗Driving: About 2.5 hours from Valencia city center, perfect for an in-depth road trip in Spain. 🎫Tickets: Exploring the town streets is free; the ancient city walls, cathedral, and hilltop castle require separate tickets. ⏰Best time to visit: Autumn! The poplar trees in the river valley turn golden, and the warm-toned red walls paired with autumn leaves create an incredibly atmospheric color palette. Recommended duration: 1–2 days to leisurely stroll through the alleys, hike the city walls, and watch the sunset. ✨Key highlights ▪️Ancient city walls along the ridge: Massive stone walls spanning the hillside. They look majestic from a distance, and you can hike the wall trail for a bird's-eye view of the whole town. ▪️Red sandstone houses: The entire town features ochre-red clay walls and red-tiled roofs, giving it a strong retro vibe. ▪️Santa María Cathedral bell tower: A town landmark. The stone bell tower stands among the stone houses and is an iconic photo spot. ▪️Maze-like stone alleys: Winding stone paths, arches, iron-wrought windows, and wooden doors covered in red roses—perfect for atmospheric photos. ▪️Turia River waterfall viewpoint: A classic spot outside the town to capture the panoramic view of the town + stunning sunset (see previous post). 📸Photo spots 1. Hillside viewpoint | Panoramic shot of the red houses + ridge walls, great for wide-angle town shots. 2. Deep in the old town alleys | Rose arches, retro street lamps, great for portrait shots with a story. 3. Cathedral bell tower spot | With the bell tower as the main subject, surrounded by red houses, an iconic town image. 4. Turia River waterfall | At sunset, when the afterglow paints the sky red, this is a legendary spot. 👗Outfit recommendations Off-white, caramel, or earth-tone vintage dresses match the red wall color palette perfectly. 📝Recommended route Parking outside the city → Walk into the old town → Stroll through the stone alleys → Visit the cathedral → Hike the ancient city walls → Head down to the river valley waterfall viewpoint for sunset. ⚠️Helpful tips 1. The old town is entirely uneven cobblestone roads, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. 2. Parking in town is limited, so try to park in the public parking lot outside the city and walk in. 3. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, and it gets chilly by the river in the evening, so bring a jacket. 4. There are not many shops in the town, so prepare drinking water and snacks in advance.
There is a saying about art in Madrid: go to the Prado for the classics, and the Reina Sofía for the modern. I was a bit nervous before going to the Reina Sofía, because for a viewer like me, understanding modern art is a stroke of luck, while not understanding it is the norm. But since I was already there, it was worth the trip just for Guernica, which I remembered from my art textbooks. · The Reina Sofía Museum itself is interesting. It was converted from an 18th-century hospital, and in 2005, French architect Jean Nouvel added a glass and steel structure. An old hospital paired with a glass tower—you can tell just by looking that it houses the most restless works of art. · A few steps inside, my expectations were confirmed. Those legendary Spanish names—Miró, Dalí, Picasso—are all masters of abstraction. Miró's canvases feature stick figures in red and blue, with dots for eyes and crosses for stars, lively like an advanced version of children's doodles. Dalí is even more extreme: clocks are soft, people are fragmented, and strange limbs grow from the ground. I even suspected I was looking at a high-end version of emojis. The gallery was crowded, but everyone had the same expression: tilting their heads, frowning, checking the labels, looking back at the painting, and tilting their heads again... It really is hard to understand, or perhaps everyone just has their own story in mind. · Of course, the most crowded spot in the entire museum is the famous Guernica. This massive work, painted by Picasso in 1937 for the Spanish Pavilion at the Paris World's Fair, takes up an entire wall. I remember when I first saw this painting in my art textbook as a child, I was stunned and at a loss for words—I didn't know you could paint like that! · The painting is only in black, white, and gray: a bull with a twisted body, a neighing horse, a mother holding her dead child with her mouth open to the sky, a broken sword, and an eye made of a light bulb looking down from above. In April 1937, during the Spanish Civil War, the Nazi Condor Legion, at Franco's request, bombed the small northern Spanish town of Guernica into ruins. It was the first large-scale carpet bombing of a civilian area in human history. Picasso began painting three days later and finished in just over a month. · In this gallery, the lighthearted atmosphere of "what is this painting?" vanished. Everyone was silent, standing in a row in front of the painting. I stood there for a long time, and for the first time, I didn't tilt my head in front of a piece of modern art, because this painting doesn't need to be understood. It doesn't express emotion. It is the emotion itself.
The freshly baked pita bread is soft and fluffy. When torn open, it resembles a little pocket with a very thin crust. Take the skewers and lamb chops from the mixed grill platter, spread on some yogurt sauce and hot sauce, and wrap them in the bread. With one bite, the charred aroma of the meat, the wheaty fragrance of the bread, and the refreshing sauce all blend together. I also wrapped up some roasted chicken and pilaf—even the nuts and raisins from the rice made it in. It was so satisfying! The dried fruits and nuts in the saffron pilaf get more fragrant the more you chew. The Turkish rice pudding is creamy and milky—the perfect dessert to end the meal. You can even wear Middle Eastern-style dresses in the restaurant for photos. The lighting and mosaic lamps create such an atmospheric vibe, making it feel just like traveling in the Middle East, full of exotic charm. Halal restaurant in Shanghai
Indoor pools have a reputation problem. Most of us picture a dim basement, a strong whiff of chlorine and a broken vending machine. But a handful of hotels around the world have turned the indoor pool into the main attraction: gold tiles, vaulted ceilings, mountain views and architecture worth travelling for. These are the ones that make a rainy day the best day of your trip. 1. The St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Tibet High on the Tibetan plateau, this resort has one of the most talked-about pools on the planet. Its “Golden Energy Pool” is lined with thousands of tiles plated in gold, and the Himalayan peaks surround the property. Swimming here feels less like exercise and more like a ritual. Getting there: Fly into Lhasa Gonggar Airport, about an hour’s drive away. Tip: Lhasa sits at over 3,600 metres. Take your first day slowly, and save the swim for once you’ve adjusted to the altitude. 2. 7132 Hotel and Therme Vals, Switzerland Tucked into a remote Alpine valley, the Therme Vals thermal baths are a pilgrimage for architecture lovers. Designed by Peter Zumthor, the baths are carved from layers of local quartzite stone, with pools of different temperatures hidden in shadowy chambers and one opening onto the mountains. Getting there: Train from Zurich to Ilanz, then a scenic postbus ride up the valley. Tip: Staying at the hotel gets you the best access. Day entry for outside visitors is limited, so book well ahead. 3. The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong Want to swim above the clouds? The Ritz-Carlton sits at the top of the ICC tower, and its indoor pool on the 118th floor is one of the highest hotel pools in the world. A giant screen ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows frame views over Victoria Harbour. Getting there: Direct access from Kowloon MTR station and the Airport Express. Tip: Go at sunset, when the city lights flicker on far below you. 4. The Greenwich Hotel, New York City Robert De Niro’s Tribeca hotel hides a real gem in its basement. The indoor pool sits under a 250-year-old wood-and-bamboo Japanese farmhouse roof, softly lit by lanterns. It feels more like a temple than a hotel spa. Getting there: A short walk from Franklin Street subway station. Tip: It’s one of the calmest places in Manhattan. Book a spa treatment and linger. 5. The Langham, London One of London’s grandest hotels has turned history into a swim. Its stunning indoor pool is housed in what was formerly a large bank vault, complete with beautiful tiling and a glistening chandelier. Getting there: Oxford Circus Underground station is a five-minute walk away. Tip: Pair your swim with the hotel’s famous afternoon tea. 6. Shangri-La Paris Set in the former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, this palace hotel looks across the Seine to the Eiffel Tower. Downstairs, you can burn off your croissant calories in a mosaic-tiled pool that feels like a private Parisian bathhouse. Getting there: Iéna Metro station is right outside. Tip: Pool time is quiet in the mornings, before the city wakes up. 7. Le Grand Hotel de Bordeaux, France Facing the Grand Théâtre in the heart of Bordeaux, this grand hotel has an indoor pool that comes about as close to swimming inside a museum as you’ll ever get. Classic details and soft lighting make it the perfect break between wine tastings. Getting there: Tram line B stops at Grand Théâtre, right at the door. Tip: Bordeaux is a wine city. Book a vineyard trip, then come back and soak. 8. Hotel 1898, Barcelona, Spain Right on La Rambla, this hotel fills the former headquarters of the Philippines Tobacco Company. Below street level, its spa pool offers a cool, quiet escape from the crowds outside, and there’s a rooftop pool too for summer evenings. Getting there: Liceu Metro station is just steps away. Tip: Escape the midday heat with a swim, then head out for late-night tapas. 9. The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort, Spain This one gives you both worlds. Guests can swim indoors under a sunlit atrium decorated with Roman-inspired columns and a tiered whirlpool, then float straight outside to the connected saltwater pool. Ideal for winter sun on the island. Getting there: About 20 minutes by car from Palma de Mallorca Airport. Tip: Visit in the off-season, when the island is quieter and the indoor pool really comes into its own. Before You Book Check pool access rules. Some hotels limit spa and pool use by time slot or age, especially at weekends. Ask about spa day passes. A few luxury hotels let non-guests book spa access, a cheaper way to experience the pool. Look for off-season deals. Winter rates are often lower, and that’s exactly when an indoor pool shines. Confirm before you go. Hotel facilities and names change, so check the latest details on each hotel’s website. The best hotel pool isn’t always the one with a beach view. Sometimes it’s a hidden chamber of stone, a golden pool in the mountains or a vault in the middle of London. Pack your swimsuit, even in winter. 🏊 #IndoorPools #HotelPools #LuxuryHotels #LuxuryTravel #BoutiqueHotels #SpaGetaway #WinterTravel #TravelInspiration #BucketListHotels #TripCom Disclaimer all photos attached are from the official hotel websites and they are sole owners of these photos only for reference.
A Green City, a Medieval Heart Spanning a Millennium If you are looking for a city that boasts a long history and is surrounded by natural beauty, Vitoria-Gasteiz will surely capture your heart. 📍Location: Basque Country, Spain | Vitoria-Gasteiz, Salburua Park (Parque de Salburua) ⏰Recommended duration: 1–2 days 👫Best for: Culture enthusiasts, city walkers, nature lovers, off-the-beaten-path European travel, photography enthusiasts 🚗Transportation guide ✅By air: The nearest airport is Vitoria Airport. You can also fly into Bilbao Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive away. ✅By train: There are direct trains to Vitoria from Madrid, Bilbao, and San Sebastián. Intercity trains within the Basque Country are convenient. ✅Within the city: The Old Town is walkable. The city has well-developed greenways, and you can rent a bicycle to explore the entire city. ✨Must-visit highlights ▫️Salburua Park (Parque de Salburua) (same spot as the cover photo) Known as an urban oasis and a representative of the "European Green Capital." Its vast wetlands and lakes are a paradise for water birds and deer. The massive concrete art installation with holes is a popular photo spot; looking through the circular openings frames the medieval Old Town, creating a storytelling effect in your photos. The park is very close to the Old Town, allowing you to step from the bustling city into pristine nature in moments. ▫️Vitoria Medieval Old Town Well-preserved medieval streets, winding cobblestone paths, and colorful old Basque buildings scattered throughout. With old churches, ancient squares, and towering spires, strolling through feels like traveling back a millennium. Stop at an outdoor café in the square to soak in the slow pace of this small Basque city. ▫️Santa Maria Cathedral The core landmark of the Old Town. This ancient Gothic cathedral has undergone long-term restoration. Its thick stone walls hold countless historical stories, and climbing the tower offers a panoramic view of the entire red-roofed Old Town. ▫️City Green Belt The entire city is surrounded by a ring of green parks, featuring vast lawns and woodlands. Locals enjoy cycling, picnicking, and jogging here. With its fresh air, this is a key reason why the city was named a "European Green Capital." 📝Recommended 2-day in-depth itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Vitoria → Salburua Park, visit the popular circular photo spot, walk through the wetlands, and spot wild deer and water birds → Evening: Enter the medieval Old Town, stroll through cobblestone streets, and have coffee in the Old Town square Day 2: Visit and climb the tower of Santa Maria Cathedral → Stroll through the Old Town and visit niche museums → Cycle the Green Belt and enjoy the urban green space → Taste local Basque specialties, then depart ⚠️Travel tips 1. The city is in the Basque Country. In addition to Spanish, the Basque language is widely used, but you can communicate with simple Spanish words. 2. Salburua Park is free to enter. Do not feed the wild animals and keep a safe distance. 3. Shops in small European cities often have long lunch breaks, and some may close in the afternoon, so plan your shopping time accordingly. 4. Spring and autumn have comfortable weather, making them suitable for travel. Summer sun is strong, so take sun protection measures. 5. The Old Town has many cobblestone steps, so wear comfortable flat shoes for long walks. 🍜Food recommendations Classic Basque cuisine: Basque burnt cheesecake, Pintxos, Iberian ham, cod dishes, and local cider. There are many small taverns in the Old Town where you can easily find authentic flavors. 🏨Accommodation recommendations ▫️Old Town hotels/homestays: Step right out into medieval streets; convenient for travel and full of atmosphere. ▫️Hotels near the Green Belt: Quiet, suitable for travelers who love nature and enjoy morning walks in the park. Many people only visit Madrid and Barcelona in Spain, but few know about this hidden Basque gem. On one side, there is a well-preserved medieval Old Town, where towers and streets are filled with a millennium of stories; on the other, vast wetlands and a green belt where deer and birds reside within the city. The perfect blend of cultural heritage and pristine nature makes it an excellent destination for slow travel in Europe.
Choose your Madrid sightseeing time before turning it into hotel nights. Three full city days is a useful starting point for a first visit: the royal and historic centre, a chosen art museum and time to enjoy the city at your own pace. Two full days can work when you are selective. A fourth can buy more Madrid depth, recovery time or a Toledo excursion. If history matters more than another city day, two Madrid days plus Toledo can fit a three-day plan. The trade-off is less time for Madrid itself. Before fixing the order, check the dates and entry arrangements for the interiors you care about. For Toledo, include the journey to Atocha, the station-to-old-town leg and your booked return. Keep a flexible indoor alternative if Retiro closes or the weather changes. Save this 13-page planner, then match the choice to your actual arrival, departure and walking pace. HASHTAGS #Madrid #MadridTravel #SpainTravel #Toledo #TravelPlanning #FirstTimeInMadrid
It's best to go for photos when the sun is shining. They offer free audio guides with headphones, which is very convenient. They even have Chinese-language audio guides available. You can see the Sagrada Familia from the rooftop. Pretty good.
Anonymous userDefinetely worht the visit. Will understand the greatness of Gaudi
Sapar MActually, I missed the meeting point because I didn't pay attention to the ticket instructions; the meeting point wasn't at the palace entrance. I had to buy a separate ticket to get in, but it was definitely worth it. The palace is incredibly luxurious and magnificent, with stunning interiors. It was a truly worthwhile trip.
201***83The good thing about the Prado is that photography isn't allowed, so I can't upload photos of the exhibition halls, but I can upload a picture of the entrance. The classic Las Meninas is still very impressive, and there were many people looking at it. There are also many famous works by Goya, Velázquez, Bosch, and many others. Last time, I visited three floors and countless halls, but I couldn't see everything. It was a visual feast, and I can only marvel at how talented the older generation of European painters were! The paintings are so beautiful!
wendy0511It’s very historic attraction, and we really enjoyed seeing the luxury tiles artwork. The gardens are beautiful. Have got a lot of home decor ideas, the souvenir shops is great too.
_TI***zlLovely experience. So much history in one place. There were lots of renovations as well so be careful, but they are super good with making boundaries so you don’t step anywhere near it. Make sure you put 2 hours for this place and go up to the tower as you get to see the whole of Sevilla from different points of view
HaniniBeautiful place, rich with history and an abundance of instagrammable shots for the social media moguls. I would advise booking tickets in advance as they sell out and make sure you include the Nasrid palace to it and immerse yourself in the history of these wonderful moorish buildings.
Jordanst92The most beautiful architecture in Alhambra, the most brilliant gem of Islamic civilization. A true World Heritage Site, strolling through the palace gardens is like wandering through the river of history.
M67***48This is my favorite science museum. The exterior is stunning, and the interior exhibits and interactions are very good. It was the first time I learned that Leonardo da Vinci was a genius who could do everything, including architecture, painting, sculpture, anatomy, and bridge building. It was the first time I learned about the moon and Mars. It was the first time I learned about genes. There were too many interactions. The children were especially hi
罗罗和宝宝It’s very diverse and I learned a lot. We paid over €100 for the family of 2 adults, 1 child, then extra for audio guides, so a little too expensive
E62***85
