DISCOVER SPAIN
Spain has quickly become one of my favorite countries in the world—and I haven’t even scratched the surface. From the bustling cities to the sleepy beach towns, this country overflows with culture, music, history, and some of the best food and wine I’ve ever had. Whether you're wandering centuries-old cathedrals, sipping sangria by the sea, or dancing until sunrise in Ibiza, Spain has something for every kind of traveler.
Cities visited: Madrid, Barcelona, Rioja Wine Region, Ibiza, & Mallorca
Coming soon: Full blog posts + travel guides for each destination!
WINE TASTING PART 1- RIOJA, SPAIN
HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO KNOW
Wineries, palaces, world famous cathedrals, tapas & more!
Click to the left or right on photos to view more!
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Spain is walkable and has great public transport, but renting a car in regions like Rioja or the Balearic Islands gives you more freedom to explore.
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The culture moves slower—dinners are late (think 8-10pm), and shops close mid-day for siesta. Embrace it. Yes, this is a thing- Spanish culture is about enjoying life.
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Sundays are very quiet—plan ahead for groceries or shopping.
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It’s incredibly safe, but watch out for pickpockets in the big cities and tourist-heavy areas.
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Learn a few Spanish phrases—locals appreciate the effort!
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Finally: Eat. Drink. Dance. Wander. Spain was made to be savored.
I’ve explored the country in two unforgettable trips—one with my mom through Madrid, Rioja, and Barcelona, and another romantic escape in autumn with my boyfriend through Madrid, Ibiza, and Mallorca. Each destination brought something completely different: vibrant nightlife, chill beach days, historic architecture, and of course… croquettas on croquettas.
Stay tuned—individual destination pages with in-depth travel tips, photos, and guides are coming soon for every spot listed below!
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THINGS TO DO
We visited Rioja, Madrid, Barcelona, Ibiza, & Mallorca
Madrid
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Wander aimlessly through the charming streets of Old Town, Plaza Mayor, and Gran Via. The energy is unmatched.
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Tour the Royal Palace and stroll the Plaza de Oriente Gardens—perfect for golden hour photos.
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Dig through racks at vintage shops—you’ll find unique fashion gems and cool cafés in the same neighborhoods.
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Hit up an open mic night or dive bar—you won’t understand a thing, but the vibes are unforgettable.
Barcelona
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Marvel at La Sagrada Familia—it’s even more magical in person.
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Explore the vibrant mosaics of Park Güell and grab lunch at a nearby terrace café.
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Get lost in the Gothic Quarter—home to historic alleys, creative street performers, and hidden tapas spots.
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Catch a flamenco show with dinner for the full Spanish experience.
Rioja Wine Region
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Drive through rolling hills and vineyard-covered valleys that look straight out of a painting.
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Book a wine cave tour—some of the wineries are built into caves dating back to the 1400s! It’s one of my top travel experiences.
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Pro tip: reserve in advance—popular bodegas book up fast.
Ibiza
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Known for its nightlife, but don’t sleep on the relaxing side of Ibiza. Rent a car and explore quieter coves and scenic viewpoints.
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Party at iconic beach clubs by day and underground clubs by night—or do neither and watch a sunset from a clifftop with a cocktail.
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Explore Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s Old Town, for history and photo ops.
Mallorca
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We stayed in Palma and Cala d’Or—both beautiful and totally different. Palma offers culture, cathedrals, and city energy, while Cala d’Or has stunning coves and beach clubs.
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Spend your days swimming in turquoise waters and hopping between beach bars.
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Enjoy a sunset dinner near the marina and celebrate anything—birthdays, anniversaries, or just life!
FOOD & DRINK
Tapas and Wine... need I say more?
Let’s be honest—Spain is a foodie’s paradise.
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Tapas & Wine: You could live on tapas alone and never get bored. Think croquettas, jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, olives, and more.
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Local Wines: Spanish wines—especially from Rioja—are some of the best I’ve ever tasted. They’re smooth, affordable, and somehow… don’t give you a hangover. Magic? Maybe.
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Cava: Spain’s version of Champagne, perfect for toasting at sunset.
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Sangria & Tinto de Verano: Refreshing red wine mixes that go down way too easily.
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Seafood: Especially in Mallorca and coastal towns—fresh, flavorful, and often grilled to perfection.
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Hidden Gem Tip: Head to a neighborhood bar or “bodega” in Madrid or Barcelona. The food is authentic and cheap, and you’ll eat like a local.
