Where to Honeymoon in Spain

Madrid

This thriving metropolis is ideal for couples who are interested in staying busy with shopping, restaurant-hopping, live performances, and world-class museums. 

Though the city is not necessarily quaint or quiet, many of its luxury hotels offer rejuvenating respite from the excitement of Madrid. You’ll find the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, the perfect retreat following days filled with exploration. It is situated within the Golden Triangle of Art, an area defined by the most important museums in the city—the Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofía Museum of Modern Art. 

Be sure to see a traditional flamenco show or go for dinner at the oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botin, which has been operating since 1725. 

Barcelona

The buzzing city is a delight for honeymooners who are eager to explore several of Spain’s highlights in one place: beaches, food, art, and architecture abound here.  

La Sagrada Familia, the architecture of Gaudi, and Montjuic Castle are can’t miss architectural landmarks in this cosmopolitan city. Foodies can spend a day strolling through the Boquería market for an indulgent taste of the town. And for an exhilarating tour of Costa Brava, start in Barcelona and embark on VBT’s self-guided biking adventure. On this excursion, you’ll set your own pace on a cozy inn-to-inn tour of Catalonia. Cycle into tiny villages brimming with charming atmosphere, enjoy winding routes with views of scenic coasts, and pedal into the former fishing ports loved by Hemingway and Dalí.

If you’re settling down in Barcelona for a bit, stay at The EDITION Barcelona or Hotel Arts for luxe hideaways perfect for honeymoon downtime. 

Sitges

An up-and-coming and still somewhat under-the-radar locale, Sitges is full of culinary delights, free-spirited fun, and nightlife just a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona. Sitges’ reputation as an LGBTQ+ location is well established in Spain for its welcoming culture and warm reception from locals, with stretches of queer-friendly beaches. As it features fewer landmark sites than its more cultural neighbor of Barcelona, it's a good destination to tack on for soaking up the Mediterranean sun in a laidback locale.

Valencia

Renowned for its mouthwatering gastronomy and home to the famed Spanish delicacy paella, Valencia is a must-visit destination when discovering Spain for the first time as a married couple. Located on the Iberian Peninsula with immediate access to the Mediterranean Sea, newlyweds who visit Valencia can explore 75 miles of beaches, including the famous La Malvarrosa. With year-round warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities such as bike routes that span nearly 100 miles and hike trails that cross the Albufera National Park, you’ll have plenty to do when you’re not canoodling as a couple in your honeymoon suite. 

From beachfront lodging to luxury palaces, couples will find a wide array of romantic accommodation options in Valencia. The historic Las Arenas Balneario Resort, a beachfront property that originally opened its doors in 1898, boasts a privileged location near Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences. The five-star Palacio Vallier is a 19th-century mansion that features high-end amenities and a rooftop terrace with swoon-worthy views. Couples seeking privacy at a boutique hotel will love One Shot Mercat 09; located within Valencia’s Old Town, the property offers spacious rooms with contemporary décor and global fusion cuisine.

The Balearic Islands (Ibiza and Formentera)

Ibiza is the place for couples who want to continue the party after the wedding. While the island has plenty of opportunities to hop from trendy lounge to lounge each night, during the day couples should head to Las Delias, a market that pays homage to the island’s hippie movement of the 70s. For crystal clear waters, head to the coasts of Cala Comte, Cala Salada, or Cala Bassa for a day at the beach.

Station yourselves at the new Six Senses Ibiza, where the luxury resort brand introduces a new utopian lifestyle to Ibiza delivering a holistic experience that merges community, spirituality, and celebration—the perfect complement to the island’s bohemian day life and buzzing nightlife. 

Take a day trip from Ibiza to Formentera, the smallest and southernmost island of the Balearics where the beaches are less crowded and backed by sand dunes and pine trees. The best way to experience the island’s spectacular cliffs and hard-to-reach caves is by renting a motorcycle to zoom around in style.

Granada  

Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this location is ideal for couples who love history and fantasy, think Game of Thrones fans longing to be transported to another time. Two must-visit sites are the landmark Alhambra Palace and the picturesque gardens of the Generalife estate.

Almería

As one of the quieter spots for a romantic stay, you’ll come for the tranquility, but you’ll stay for the nature. Almería is an inviting choice for couples embarking on a new life adventure because of its unique landscapes; the city is home to Spain’s driest climate and is Europe’s only desert. At The Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, you’ll find volcanic formations that are among the largest in Europe, along with otherworldly landscapes from the area’s salt flats. 

Near the Cabo de Gata Park, discover an oasis at Cortijo Los Malenos, a boutique property anchored by an inviting pool and surrounded by lush gardens. In town, you’ll meander through quaint whitewashed fishing villages and can enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the country.

Malaga

Adventurous couples with a zest for exploration should head to Malaga; hiking the Caminito Del Rey is a bucket list activity that will be an unforgettable memory to kick off married life together. The town is also on the renowned Costa del Sol with access to long stretches of beaches that will lure you into lazy days on the sand. 

As one of the town’s greatest claims to fame is being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, a visit to the Picasso Museum is a must. Art lovers will also enjoy a trip to the Pompidou Center, one of the only outposts of the beloved Parisian museum outside of France.

Cádiz

This ancient port is the southernmost city in the country and is perfect for the pair who wants to relax and not travel too far to take in a variety of memorable experiences. The city is known for its iconic architecture including over 100 watchtowers, medieval castles, and gothic cathedrals. While staying at this coastal town, eat tuna caught by hand, swim in the beaches of Conil de la Frontera, or climb the Tower of Tavira and enjoy the views of the Bay.

Seville

Perfect for couples who love the charm of old-world romance, Seville is one of Spain’s most historic cities. The striking architecture, winding alleys, flowing fountains, and reverent churches are great backdrops for couples’ photoshoots. Visit Real Alzcazar, relax in the Arab baths, or learn how to paint a typical tile while you’re visiting to get the full Seville experience.

The Canary Islands (Tenerife and La Palma)

Close to the African Coast, this archipelago of Spanish islands is recognized for its rugged volcanic isles known for their black-and-white-sand beaches. 

Tenerife, the largest island, peaks with the volcanic mountain Mt. Teide, which is protected by the Teide National Park. Adventurous pairs will enjoy hiking along the mountain and then ending the day relaxing at many of its beautiful beaches. 

Colloquially known as La Isla Bonita, the island of La Palma is known for its breathtaking landscapes—you’ll find imposing volcanoes here too, but the island is also surrounded by vast forests and skies full of stars. 

Thanks to the dark, clear skies year-round, stargazing at The Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory is a romantic and enlightening activity to enjoy while visiting. For those who prefer the seas to the stars, add a swim in the natural pools of Charco Azul to your itinerary. 

Salamanca

Off the regular tourist track, Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage City with a history that dates back to the 3rd century B.C. Its architecture is a delight for those with a photography hobby and for couples who want to do something offbeat; aesthetes will enjoy a trip to the Museo Art Nouveau y Art Decó Casa Lis, a stroll around the Plaza Mayor (considered one of the country’s most impressive plazas), or a visit to the sandstone cathedrals. 

Segovia

It’s not an exaggeration when travelers describe Segovia as a magical city. Its most famous medieval landmark, The Alcazar of Segovia, was the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle. The destination is ideal for couples who are looking to experience small-town vibes in a scenic location. Here you can find ornate 15th-century architecture, artsy cafes, boutiques, and shops.  

Gijón

The destination of Gijon is one of the best locations in Spain to enjoy nature and serves as a strong starting place to tour the Asturias. Couples who prefer to explore by foot should make an excursion to the Cares route where you can traverse through impressive gorges along the eastern Asturias. Sea lovers can sign up for private lessons and learn how to surf with Skoolsurf. And those with a more refined pallet will want to make reservations to dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant Casa Gerardo. 

San Sebastián

This postcard town on the Bay of Biscay in the Basque country is ideal for couples who share a love for food and fun. The town is known for its pintxo culture—succulent snacks packed with local flavor—and the beaches of La Concha and La Zurriola. 

Heavily influenced by the French, San Sebastián offers a deeper understanding of the cultural diversity of Spain. Visiting the Comb of the Winds, crossing by boat to San Juan Passage, or visiting a traditional cider house should be on your to-do list when visiting.