Spain Tourism

Occupying about four-fifths of the Iberian Peninsula, with Portugal dominating the other one-fifth, Spain is one of the largest countries in Europe. It is a land of incredible diversity both in terms of culture and geography.

While the Mediterranean coastal areas are literal magnets drawing majority of the country's tourist crowd, the north coast is gaining popularity as an off-the-beaten track Spain tourism destination.

Part of the draw that Spain tourism has on travelers and adventurers is the wondrously diverse landscape. Spain tourism is not just about beaches. Beyond sand, sun, and surf are a huge variety of terrain from coniferous and deciduous forests to vast, arid plains, salt marshes to rocky bays and mysterious coves, snow-capped peaks to verdant river valleys traversed by clear, mountain streams.

Spain's natural beauty is enhanced further by the country's variety of national parks. Indeed, if you are looking for one of the best ways to explore the nature and wildlife in abundance, then better prepare yourself for a visit to the national parks where hiking trails, walks, and jeep excursions are aplenty.

Check out these major national parks for a one of a kind Spain tourism adventure:

* Coto de Doñana (Seville and Huelva)
* Tablas de Daimiel (La Mancha)
* Ordesa (Huesca Pyrenees)
* Aigues Tortes (Lleida)
* Montaña de Covadonga (Picos de Europa)

And once you've had your fill of Spain's natural visual splendor, then time for you to move on to the man-made ones.

Over the centuries, Spain has attracted a number of people, who were drawn to its beautiful shores. These conquering people established their colonies, kingdoms, and cities and spread their culture and architectural technology all over the vast territory. Today, Spain still bears the marks of these different cultures - Moorish palaces and baths, Romanesque churches, Gothic buildings, and other structures and constructions.

In some areas, the buildings are strongly reminiscent of the Renaissance period: large cathedrals and castles. In others, the style could be Baroque. In Barcelona, you can get an idea how medieval Spain would have looked like just by studying the buildings and structures in this major cultural center. In Madrid, the Roman influence is stark.

Spain tourism is a haven for the rich culture and history of the Spanish people. There are museums and galleries that are dedicated to nearly every conceivable subject matter from the history of funeral carriages to collections of such famous artists as Pablo Picasso.

At night, there is more to do. After a day of quiet walks through plazas and narrow, winding streets, revel in the loudness and gaiety of a typical Spanish pub. The Spanish people are fun-loving and laidback. They enjoy good food, good drink, and loud debates.