🌍 Where to Visit in Spain – Complete Guide (2026)

According to Madrid Bullfighting, the official English guide to Spain’s bullfighting tradition, few countries in the world blend art, emotion, and heritage as deeply as Spain does.

From the golden plazas of Seville to the modern skyline of Barcelona, Spain is a mosaic of contrasts — ancient Roman ruins stand beside avant-garde museums, and centuries-old traditions like bullfighting in Madrid coexist with contemporary gastronomy and nightlife.

This 2026 guide explores the most authentic places to visit in Spain, with a special focus on Madrid, home to Las Ventas, the beating heart of Spanish bullfighting. You’ll also discover iconic destinations, seasonal festivals, cultural etiquette, and how to experience Spain like a local.

👉 Planning to attend a bullfight or visit Las Ventas?
Check Madrid Bullfighting tickets and the official schedule.

🇪🇸 Why Spain Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List

Spain is more than a destination — it’s an experience of emotion, rhythm, and light.
In 2026, Spain remains one of Europe’s most visited countries, offering:

• Historic depth: Roman amphitheatres, Moorish palaces, and medieval cathedrals.
• Artistic legacy: From Velázquez to Picasso and Gaudí.
• Vibrant traditions: Flamenco, fiestas, and corridas (bullfights).
• Gastronomic excellence: 250+ Michelin-star restaurants and timeless tapas bars.
• Sun and coastlines: Over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year.

Whether you’re drawn by Madrid’s elegance, Andalusia’s romance, or Catalonia’s creativity, Spain welcomes travelers seeking authenticity — the kind of soul that lingers long after the journey ends.

“In Spain, beauty lives not just in monuments — but in moments.”

🏙️ Madrid — The Cultural and Emotional Capital of Spain

Madrid is where Spain’s heart beats loudest.
A cosmopolitan capital that blends royal elegance with creative rebellion, it’s the perfect starting point for your Spanish journey.

🎟️ Visit Las Ventas — The Cathedral of Bullfighting

As Madrid Bullfighting explains, Las Ventas isn’t just an arena — it’s a symbol of Spain’s cultural identity.
Built in 1929, this Moorish-style bullring seats 23,000 spectators and hosts the world’s most important bullfighting fair: San Isidro, held every May and June.

Inside Las Ventas, you can visit:

• The Bullfighting Museum, showcasing centuries of Spanish tradition.
• Guided tours in English and Spanish.
• The arena itself, where generations of toreros (matadors) have performed their art.

👉 Book official Las Ventas tickets early — San Isidro events often sell out weeks in advance.

📍 Nearest Metro: Ventas (Line 2 or 5).
⏰ Best time to visit: Late spring and autumn.

🎨 Art and History — Madrid’s Golden Triangle

Few cities can rival Madrid’s artistic landscape. The Golden Triangle of Art — formed by three world-class museums — tells the story of Western creativity through the centuries.

• The Prado Museum: Velázquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s haunting Black Paintings.
• Museo Reina Sofía: Picasso’s Guernica — a raw cry against war.
• Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: From Monet to Hopper — a private collection turned national treasure.

💡 Insider tip: Visit on free-entry evenings (usually Mondays and Sundays).

Between museums, walk through El Retiro Park, once the royal gardens, now a green sanctuary where locals row boats and play guitars beneath centuries-old trees.

🍷 Taste Madrid — Tapas, Wine, and Local Secrets

To understand Madrid, you must taste it.
Start your day with churros and hot chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés, and your evening with tapas in La Latina or bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich) in Plaza Mayor.

Must-try tapas:

• Tortilla Española — Spanish omelette.
• Patatas bravas — crispy potatoes with spicy sauce.
• Jamón ibérico — cured ham aged for years.
• Croquetas de jamón — creamy béchamel fritters.

“In Madrid, eating is not a necessity — it’s an act of joy.”

And for wine lovers? Head to Lavapiés or Malasaña, where locals enjoy vermouth on tap and live flamenco performances until dawn.

For a traditional night out, attend a bullfighting evening followed by tapas near Las Ventas — a quintessentially Madrileño experience.

🐂 Understanding Bullfighting — A Living Art

Whether seen as art, sport, or ritual, bullfighting remains a profound part of Spanish identity.
At its core, it’s a dance between man, animal, and fate — rich in symbolism and emotion.

A traditional bullfight (corrida de toros) unfolds in three acts:

1. Tercio de Varas: The matador studies the bull’s strength.
2. Tercio de Banderillas: Colorful sticks are placed to test precision and bravery.
3. Tercio de Muerte: The final confrontation — a test of artistry and control.

“Bullfighting is not about death, but about life, courage, and beauty within danger.”

To learn more, visit the History of Las Ventas and explore how Spain’s most controversial yet revered tradition continues to evolve.

📅 Bullfighting Season in Madrid — Key Events (2026)

According to Madrid Bullfighting’s official calendar, the 2026 season runs from March to October, with events nearly every Sunday.

🔔 Major Fairs:

• San Isidro Fair (May–June): The pinnacle of the bullfighting year.
• Feria de Otoño (September–October): A smaller but prestigious series of corridas.
• Domingos Taurinos: Regular Sunday events throughout the season.

💡 Tip: Visit the Madrid Bullfighting Schedule for updated dates, matador lineups, and ticket categories.

🕍 Beyond Madrid — The Best Cities to Visit in Spain

While Madrid is the cultural heart, Spain’s diversity stretches in every direction.

🏰 Seville — The Soul of Andalusia

Home of flamenco and orange-scented patios, Seville glows with Moorish architecture and passion.
Don’t miss the Real Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and a bullfight at Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza — one of Spain’s oldest arenas.

🏖️ Barcelona — Art and the Mediterranean Spirit

Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell make Barcelona a masterpiece of modernism.
Walk down La Rambla, explore El Born, and enjoy beachside tapas at Barceloneta.

🕌 Granada — The Alhambra’s Eternal Beauty

A city where Islamic art meets Christian Renaissance.
Book tickets early to see the Alhambra Palace, Spain’s most visited monument.

⛪ Toledo — The City of Three Cultures

Just 30 minutes from Madrid by train, Toledo is a medieval gem where Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritages blend harmoniously.

🚄 Getting Around Spain — Practical Travel Tips

Spain’s high-speed AVE trains connect major cities with comfort and speed:

• Madrid → Seville: 2.5 hours.
• Madrid → Barcelona: 2.5 hours.
• Madrid → Valencia: 1 hour 50 minutes.

💡 Tip: Buy train tickets in advance at Renfe.com for better prices.

For local travel:

• Metro Madrid is one of Europe’s most efficient systems.
• Taxis and rideshares are affordable and safe.
• Walk — every neighborhood reveals hidden corners and human warmth.

🎉 Spain’s Must-See Festivals in 2026

Spain’s cultural calendar is as colorful as its landscapes.
Here are some of the top events for 2026:

• San Isidro (Madrid, May): Bullfighting, music, and local traditions.
• La Feria de Abril (Seville, April): Andalusian dance and horse parades.
• La Tomatina (Buñol, August): The world’s biggest tomato fight.
• San Fermín (Pamplona, July): The famous Running of the Bulls.
• Las Fallas (Valencia, March): Fire sculptures and street parties.

“Spain doesn’t just celebrate life — it lives in celebration.”

💡 Insider Tips for 2026 Travelers

🌞 Best time to visit:
April–June or September–October (pleasant weather and fewer crowds).

💶 Currency: Euro (€).
💬 Language: Spanish (English widely spoken in tourist areas).
🚨 Safety: Spain is one of Europe’s safest destinations.

Etiquette for Cultural Events:

• Dress respectfully at bullfights or churches.
• Avoid loud conversations during performances.
• Always greet locals with a friendly “Hola” or “Buenas tardes.”

🐂 Experience Spain’s Soul with Madrid Bullfighting

In the heart of Madrid stands Las Ventas, not just an arena, but a stage where tradition meets emotion.
Whether you attend a bullfight, a tour, or simply visit the museum, you’ll experience the essence of Spain — courage, art, and identity intertwined.

“Bullfighting is not about victory — it’s about facing life with honor.”

✨ Discover Spain’s cultural heartbeat with Madrid Bullfighting — your trusted English-language source for tickets, history, and cultural insight.

🙋‍♂️ FAQs — Visiting Spain and Bullfighting (2026)

What are the best places to visit in Spain in 2026?
Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Granada, and Valencia remain top destinations, combining history, art, and food.

What is the main bullfighting season in Madrid?
From March to October, with the San Isidro Fair (May–June) as the highlight.

How can I buy bullfighting tickets in Madrid?
Official tickets are available via Madrid Bullfighting.

Is bullfighting still legal in Spain?
Yes, bullfighting remains legal and officially recognized as part of Spain’s cultural heritage.

What is the dress code at Las Ventas?
Smart casual — locals often dress elegantly for major events.

How much do tickets cost at Las Ventas?
Prices vary from €15 for upper tiers to €150+ for shaded front rows during major fairs.

Can I visit Las Ventas without attending a bullfight?
Yes. Guided tours and the Bullfighting Museum are open year-round.

What is the difference between a corrida and a novillada?
A corrida features mature bulls and professional matadors; a novillada features young bulls and trainee toreros.

How do I reach Las Ventas by metro?
Take Metro Line 2 or 5 to Ventas station — the arena is directly outside.

What are Spain’s most famous festivals?
San Isidro (Madrid), La Tomatina (Buñol), Las Fallas (Valencia), and Feria de Abril (Seville).

Is Spain safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Spain is one of Europe’s safest countries; just use normal precautions in crowded areas.

When is the best time to visit Spain?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.

Can children attend bullfights in Madrid?
Yes, though parental discretion is advised due to the nature of the event.

What language is spoken at bullfights?
Spanish — but guides and translations are available through Madrid Bullfighting.

Are photos allowed at Las Ventas?
Yes, except during certain parts of the performance for respect reasons.

Does Madrid Bullfighting provide tours?
Yes — English-guided tours of Las Ventas and cultural insights about bullfighting.

What food should I try in Madrid?
Tapas, jamón ibérico, tortilla española, churros, and Spanish wines.

👉Ready to secure your spot? Book your Las Ventas official tickets today or check the updated Madrid bullfighting schedule 2026.