You’d be hard pressed to find a person who didn’t put Spain on their bucket list after watching Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. And while we love the regular spots that offer fun, sunshine and culture, the lesser-explored parts of Spain should also be on your bucket list. Think cobbled streets with quaint cafes that run past ancient structures. Further along, a twinkling storefont invites you to indulge in its wares. And then after you get your fill of fashion, you can head over to a cute bar along the river front that offers the most delicious cocktails.
Sure we love the bustling streets of Barcelona and Madrid but if you’re looking for an immersive, cultural experience, head over to these cities in the charming southern region of Andalusia.
Seville
Seville is a vibrant city, full of life and sparkling with glamour. Perfect for a visit with friends or a partner, Seville has something for everyone. Particularly enjoyable is the olive oil tasting activity at Olecteca which should convert you quite easily. The city enjoys warm sunny days, great for a stroll by the riverside. For those with a penchant for history, you could go to the real Alcazar, which used to be a fortress, then a palace and now a majestic royal residence, and occasionally even a wedding venue.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the city’s rich sense of art and culture – one such experience being checking Sevilian tiles in Plaza España. Seville has a history of traditional pottery dating back to the Hispano-Muslim period and finds its relics in the form of tiles. No trip is complete without a stop at the Seville Cathedral, a church decorated with gothic-inspired exteriors and bathed in gold interiors. Find the diamonds of modern architecture in the form of Las Setas, an archaeological museum, and Puente del Alamillo, a bridge connecting the city of Seville to Cartuja Island.
After a tiring day of sightseeing, it is time indulge in the city’s rich gastronomical gems. For all the adventurous eaters, try Feria Street for Spanish traditional tapas. Restaurant Cerveceria La Giralda, placed in the oldest hammam in Spain, allows one to enjoy a meal while having a glimpse at the city’s rich history. Experience Seville’s annual festival, held every year in April, while dressed in the traditional flamenco dress- you even get to do a photoshoot with it. The festival celebrates Spanish culture, art, dance, and food. The next installation of the festival will be from April 14th to April 20th, 2024.
Jerez de la Frontera
Just an hour away from Seville is the origin place of the oldest Southern Spanish natives. Jerez de la Frontera is the heart of Andalusian culture, one of the oldest cultures in Spain. The main tourist attractions of the city remain their delectable wines and their awe-inspiring traditional Flamenco dance and music. For those who are seeking to experience the local culture away from the tourist spots, this city is the right fit.
Get a glimpse at the Spanish cultural dance, music, and art at the Lola Flores cultural centre, with the world’s leading Flamenco performers. The city is a haven for all wine lovers as it allows one to partake in wine tasting at world-famous wineries, visit the movie wineries and a wine museum consisting of 40 wineries. The José Estévez vineyard has an equestrian centre attached to it, which allows an individual to discover both their love for wine and horses.
For those who are not keen lovers of wine, visit the Museum of Honey Rancho Cortesano and learn more about Jerez’s art, culture, and honey-making processes. Enjoy a meal while seeing the flamenco performances as you sip on some of the oldest wines in the world.
Cadiz
Another city not too far from Jerez de la Frontera and Seville awaits to awaken the wanderlust in you. Escape to the past in the city of Cadiz, the 3000-year-old city deemed to be the oldest city in Europe. Enchanting narrow streets, whimsical beaches, and succulent meals are all part of the experience here. The Tavira Tower and the baroque cathedral are the city’s most important tourist destinations, with a mesmerisingly beautiful sunset view. Embark on the shores of Tarifa to see dolphins and whales.
San Juan de Dios Square and the maritime avenue Campo Sur will bring a rush of memories, as they are the shooting locations of Bollywood movies. The month of February brings the Carnival of Cadiz, another joyfully held Spanish event rich with culture, beauty, and art. For those who are seeking an adrenaline rush, the shores of Cadiz are the answer for you.
For those who are seeking an adrenaline rush, the shores of Cadiz are the answer for you. Experience all kinds of water sports, from sailing to kayaking to surfing, and of course golf in the green lands and along the shorelines of Cadiz. With expansive greens and golf courses designed by the world’s best, you are set to be entertained and have a good time exploring this beloved sport in places like Sotogrande in San Roque or the Barceló Montecastillo Golf. The sunny climes add to the fun. Be sure to take a friend along and challenge them to a game or two.
After the sightseeing and adventurous activities wear you out, regain your energy with the gastronomical stars of the city. Try fish delicacies like tortillita de camarones and put your tastebuds to test with goat cheese ice cream. The city is flowing with beachside restaurants and gastronomies for you to enjoy.
For more information, visit www.spain.info/en/ or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.
This article is published in collaboration with Tourism Office of Spain (Turespaña), Mumbai
Also read, World Tourism Day: 8 Gorgeous Offbeat Destinations & Spots That You Must Visit In India
