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Located in Southwest Europe, Spain is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring a variety of nearby destinations. From European cities steeped in history to African hotspots full of exotic escapes, there are many places to visit near Spain that offer great travel experiences. It can be Paris for romance, Portugal for tasty food, or Morocco for colourful souks. Whichever destinations you pick, each offers something unique, a short trip away. These locations near Spain can be icing on the cake by adding even more depth, adventure, and cultural contrast to your European travel experience.
10 Places To Visit Near Spain
Places to visit near Spain offer a diverse array of cultures, landscapes, and experiences just a stone’s throw beyond the border.
1. Portugal
Photo: Luis miguel Bugallo Sánchez (Lmbuga) / Wikimedia Commons
Being west of Spain, Portugal is a land full of charm, coastal beauty, and cultural depth. Lisbon, the capital, is known for pastel buildings, yellow trams, and the soulful music of Fado. Take a stroll through Alfama, stop by Jerónimos Monastery, and gaze across the city from São Jorge Castle. In Porto, visit the riverside district of Ribeira and the famous cellars of port wine. The south is then called with its golden beaches, towering cliffs, and towns proud to be called Lagos or Albufeira. This makes it one of the easiest yet very rewarding places to visit near Spain for a diversified European experience.
Nearest Airport: Lisbon Airport
Top Attractions: Alfama district, Jerónimos Monastery, Ribeira in Porto, Algarve beaches
2. France
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
Sharing a long border with Spain, France offers travellers an enticing blend of elegance, history, and diversity. Just beyond the Pyrenees lie the Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine regions, replete with medieval towns like Carcassonne and vineyards in Bordeaux. The capital Paris sits, enchanting with the presence of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. Art connoisseurs will bask in the glory of Impressionist paintings, while fashion devotees will enjoy the assortment of top shopping streets. The south, along the French Riviera, glitters with spectacular cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, offering a Mediterranean ambience and deep azure waters. The culinary experience has just as much variety, from croissants and coq au vin to reds from Bordeaux and Champagne.
Nearest Airport: Charles de Gaulle International Airport
Top Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Carcassonne fortress, French Riviera
3. Andorra
Located in the Pyrenees between Spain and France, Andorra is a small but beautiful destination that guarantees alpine beauty and adventure. Andorra’s capital, Andorra La Vella, is famous for being tax-free for shoppers, its lovely buildings of stone, taverns and cafés serving up food and drink, and stunning vistas. For nature lovers, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a UNESCO site worth exploring. You will find some amazing hiking trails, mountain tops, and views. In winter, Grandvalira and Vallnord become lively ski resorts, catering for both novice and advanced skiers and snow-sport enthusiasts. Andorra has many historic sites too, for example, its ancient Romanesque churches and cultural festivals celebrating Catalan traditions.
Nearest Airport: Andorra–La Seu d’Urgell Airport
Top Attractions: Grandvalira ski resort, Andorra la Vella, Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
4. Italy
Photo: Kristīne Zāle / Unsplash
To say the least, the land of wonders is Italy, an abode of art, architecture, and culinary heritage, far from Spain by a short flight. Start your trip in Rome, where the very ancient wonders greet you with endless history: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican. Florence is all set to charm you with Renaissance paintings. A fine visit to the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and Michelangelo’s David is recommended. Venice is a romantic getaway with its canals, gondolas, and St. Mark’s Basilica. Outside these cities, take time to enjoy the Tuscan countryside and the cliffside views of the Amalfi Coast, or explore the ruins of Pompeii.
Nearest Airport: Rome’s Fiumicino Airport
Top Attractions: Colosseum, Vatican City, Uffizi Gallery, Grand Canal in Venice
5. Morocco
Photo: Sergey Pesterev / Unsplash
Just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain, Morocco offers a beautiful mix of African, Arab, and European influences, making it very different from Spain. Fly into Tangier, easily accessible by ferry from southern Spain, to easily explore its old medina and new coastal promenades. Then, travel deeper into the country to find Marrakech’s souks, the Bahia Palace, and the Majorelle Garden. There are plenty of things to do in Morocco. Morocco is one of the most fascinating and convenient places to see near Spain and has plenty to offer to those who may be seeking to venture beyond Europe.
Nearest Airport: Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
Top Attractions: Marrakech souks, Bahia Palace, Hassan II Mosque, Fes Medina
6. Switzerland
Photo: Giles Laurent / Wikimedia Commons
Switzerland is farther away from Spain, but just a short plane ride away in its own right would surely be worth a visit to witness alpine splendour and world-class opportunities. Zurich feels cosmopolitan, with art galleries, high-end shops, and lakefront enchantments. Lucerne captures the old-world charm of medieval buildings mixed with the sparkle of a modern city filled with the froth of the famous Chapel Bridge, while from there, you may board Mount Pilatus. Interlaken lies by the way of the Jungfrau region with hiking, downhill skiing, and sightseeing on trains like the Glacier Express. Geneva retains its cool with an international mix by the shores of Lake Geneva and views of Mont Blanc.
Nearest Airport: Zurich Airport
Top Attractions: Jungfrau region, Lake Geneva, Chapel Bridge, Glacier Express
7. Belgium
Belgium is a lovely combination of historic cities, rich history, and gastronomic delights, all within easy reach of Spain, a short flight away. Brussels, the capital, has the Grand Place, Art Nouveau buildings, and museums such as the Magritte and the Comic Strip Centre. An hour away, Bruges showcases its charming cobblestone roads, canals, and gothic churches, and is referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Ghent is equally historic but with its youthful energy, boasting the stunning Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and boats lining the lively riverside cafés. Belgium is a foodie paradise, known for its waffles, fries, craft beers, and high-end chocolates.
Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport
Top Attractions: Grand Place, Bruges canals, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Atomium
8. Germany
Photo: Rachel Davis / Unsplash
Germany offers bustling cities, fairytale castles, and storybook landscapes, making it one of the thriving tourist attractions near Spain. Take Berlin, a rich, compelling city where recent and long-gone history is abundant all around. You can visit the remnants of the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, and world-famous museums at Museum Island, among many other places. For those interested in Bavarian culture, Munich boasts beer culture with many beer gardens and the annual Oktoberfest, among other attractions. Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps also presents a picture that belongs in a fairytale. The Rhine Valley has vineyards and charming cities like Bacharach and Rüdesheim, as well as castles dotted along the river.
Nearest Airport: Frankfurt Airport
Top Attractions: Berlin Wall, Neuschwanstein Castle, Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island
9. Monaco
Monaco, the luxurious principality found on the French Riviera, offers a dazzling destination just a hop, skip, and jump away from Spain. Although diminutive in location, Monaco is full of incredible destinations to visit, from the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino to the extravagant and regal Prince’s Palace and stunning views of the Exotic Garden. There’s a distinct sense of elite lifestyle while visiting the harbour of Monaco, filled with superyachts, especially around the time of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. If you’re looking for a cultural element, spend time at the Oceanographic Museum or find a soothing performance at the Monte Carlo Opera.
Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport
Top Attractions: Monte Carlo Casino, Prince’s Palace, Oceanographic Museum, Grand Prix circuit
10. Luxembourg
Photo: Cayambe / Wikimedia Commons
Although it is a small country, Luxembourg has much to offer. It is captivating in terms of medieval charm, natural beauty, and modernity. Its capital, Luxembourg City, is situated on a cliff, and surrounds itself with an Old Quarter, the Grand Ducal Palace, and the UNESCO Heritage site, the Bock Casemates. Just outside of the city, there is the breathtaking Moselle Valley, with river and vineyard views, and the hiking in Mullerthal referred to as “Little Switzerland.” Luxembourg may be small, but it is rich with trilingual culture and history. It is worth a visit as it is relatively close to Spain and is a relaxing option for a cultural and historical trip.
Nearest Airport: Luxembourg Airport
Top Attractions: Bock Casemates, Grand Ducal Palace, Vianden Castle, Old Quarter
From the coastal elegance of Portugal to the vibrant allure of Morocco, the places to visit near Spain offer remarkable diversity. Whether you’re drawn to art, historic landmarks, cuisine, or natural beauty, each destination delivers something unique just a short journey away. Exploring beyond Spain opens the door to fresh perspectives and unforgettable memories. Ready to go further? Start planning your next adventure with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Ricardo Gomez Angel / Unsplash
