Planning a trip to Spain in 2026? From the La Tomatina in Buñol and Semana Santa in Seville to the iconic Alhambra in Granada and relaxing beaches of Costa del Sol, Spain has definetely things to offer. There are many cultural events and festivals as well. Here’s a list of places to go and things to do when in Spain in 2026 – prepared for you by LocalsInsider.com.
Best Places to Go in Spain in 2026
- Attend La Tomatina in Buñol – August
- Experience Semana Santa in Seville – March/April
- Visit the Alhambra in Granada – Year-round
- Enjoy the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona – July
- Explore Park Güell in Barcelona – Year-round
- Relax on the beaches of Costa del Sol – Best in June to September
- Attend the Fallas Festival in Valencia – March
- Discover the completed Tower of Jesus Christ at Sagrada Família in Barcelona – 2026 Special
- Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid – Year-round
- Experience the Feria de Abril in Seville – April
- Explore the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao – Year-round
- Attend the San Sebastián International Film Festival – September
- Visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela – Year-round
- Enjoy the beaches of Ibiza – Best in June to September
- Experience the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife – February
- Explore the historic city of Toledo – Year-round
- Attend the Mérida Classical Theatre Festival – July/August
- Visit the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia – Year-round
Attend La Tomatina in Buñol
On August 26, 2026, join the world’s largest tomato fight in Buñol, Spain. This annual event, held on the last Wednesday of August, attracts thousands of participants who engage in a friendly battle using overripe tomatoes. The festival’s origins date back to 1945, stemming from a spontaneous food fight among locals. Today, it has evolved into a globally recognized event, complete with parades, music, and fireworks leading up to the main event. Tickets are required for participation and can be purchased through the La Tomatina Official Website. It’s advisable to book accommodations early, as the small town’s lodging fills up quickly during the festival period.
Experience Semana Santa in Seville
From March 29 to April 5, 2026, witness the elaborate Holy Week processions in Seville, Spain. Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a deeply rooted tradition featuring daily processions of religious brotherhoods carrying ornate floats depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. The most significant processions occur during the “Madrugá,” the night between Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
This event draws visitors from around the world, so it’s recommended to plan accommodations and viewing spots well in advance. For more information, visit the Seville Tourism website.
Visit the Alhambra in Granada
Open year-round, the Alhambra in Granada is a stunning example of Moorish architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This palace and fortress complex, originally constructed in 889 AD and later rebuilt in the mid-13th century, showcases intricate Islamic art and lush gardens. Due to its popularity, it’s essential to book tickets in advance through the Alhambra Official Website. Guided tours are available and provide deeper insights into the site’s rich history.
Explore Park Güell in Barcelona
Designed by Antoni Gaudí, Park Güell offers whimsical architecture and panoramic city views. This public park, inaugurated in 1926, features colorful mosaics, serpentine benches, and the iconic salamander sculpture known as “El Drac.” The park is divided into free-access and ticketed areas, with the Monumental Zone requiring an entrance fee.
It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the Park Güell Official Website. The park is open daily, with extended hours during peak seasons.
Enjoy the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona
From July 6 to 14, 2026, experience the adrenaline of the San Fermín festival in Pamplona, Spain. The highlight of this festival is the “Encierro,” or Running of the Bulls, where participants run ahead of a group of bulls through the city’s streets. The event begins each morning at 8:00 AM, but festivities, including parades, music, and traditional dances, continue throughout the day and night.
Participation in the run is free, but it’s crucial to understand the risks and follow safety guidelines. For detailed information, visit the San Fermín Official Website.
Relax on the Beaches of Costa del Sol
Best visited between June and September, Costa del Sol boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Stretching along the southern coast of Spain, this region offers a variety of beach experiences, from the bustling shores of Marbella to the tranquil coves of Nerja. Beyond sunbathing, visitors can enjoy water sports, beachside dining, and explore charming coastal towns. For more details, visit the Costa del Sol Tourism website.
Attend the Fallas Festival in Valencia
From March 15 to 19, 2026, experience the fiery Fallas Festival in Valencia, Spain. This traditional celebration honors Saint Joseph and features the creation and burning of large, intricate sculptures called “fallas.” The festival includes daily fireworks, parades, and cultural events, culminating in the “La Cremà,” where the fallas are set ablaze. It’s a vibrant display of art and community spirit.
For more information, visit the Visit Valencia website.
Celebrate the Centenary and New Heights at Sagrada Família
2026 is a historic year for the Sagrada Família as it marks the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death and the scheduled completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ. At 172.5 meters, this central tower will make the basilica the tallest church in the world. While the final Glory Facade may continue into the 2030s, the completion of all 18 towers in 2026 is a milestone a century in the making. It is not far from our favorite cultural spot in town – Museu de l’Art Prohibit.
Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid
Home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and other renowned artists, the Prado Museum is open year-round in Madrid, Spain. Established in 1819, it houses one of the finest collections of European art, spanning the 12th to early 20th centuries. The museum offers free admission during specific hours, typically in the late afternoon. For more information, including current exhibitions and ticketing, visit the Museo del Prado website.
Experience the Feria de Abril in Seville
In April 2026 (tentatively scheduled from April 21 to 26), join the lively Feria de Abril with its traditional costumes, music, and dancing. Details can be found on the Seville Tourism website.
Explore the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum showcases contemporary art in a striking building. Visitor information is available at the Guggenheim Bilbao website.
Attend the San Sebastián International Film Festival
From September 18 to 26, 2026, enjoy screenings and events at the 74th edition of this prestigious film festival. More details can be found on the San Sebastián Film Festival website.
View the San Sebastián International Fireworks Competition
Every August, during the Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia) festival, San Sebastián lights up with its renowned International Fireworks Competition. Pyrotechnic teams from 25+ countries showcase dazzling displays over La Concha Bay, creating mesmerizing reflections on the water.
For a prime viewing spot, head to the rooftop terrace of Hotel Lasala Plaza, located at Plaza Lasala 2, 20003 San Sebastián. This stylish hotel offers panoramic views of the bay.
Visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
The culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, this cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Plan your visit through the Santiago de Compostela Tourism website.
Enjoy the Beaches of Ibiza
Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Ibiza is best visited between June and September. More information is available at the Ibiza Travel website.
Experience the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
In February 2026 (main street festivities from Feb 11 to 22), join one of the world’s largest carnivals with its colorful parades and festivities. The grand “Coso Apoteosis” parade is expected on February 17, 2026. Details can be found on the Carnival Tenerife website.
Explore the Historic City of Toledo
Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” Toledo offers rich history and architecture. Visitor information is available at the Toledo Tourism website.
Attend the Mérida Classical Theatre Festival
In July and August 2026, enjoy classical plays in the ancient Roman theatre of Mérida. More details can be found on the Festival de Mérida website.
Dine at DiverXO in Madrid
For an unparalleled culinary experience in 2026, reserve a table at DiverXO, Madrid’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Helmed by renowned chef Dabiz Muñoz, DiverXO offers avant-garde cuisine that pushes the boundaries of traditional dining. The tasting menu, priced at €450 per person, features innovative dishes like sour kimchi ice cream and nigiri of hare meat, providing a unique gastronomic journey. Due to its acclaim, securing a reservation well in advance is essential.
Sip at La Venencia Sherry Bar in Madrid
For a hip yet historical wine bar experience, visit La Venencia. This authentic sherry bar, dating back to the Spanish Civil War era, has retained its original charm with dusty bottles lining the shelves and a strict no-photography policy. La Venencia exclusively serves various types of sherry, accompanied by simple tapas like olives and cured meats.
Relax at SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante
Nestled between Alicante’s Mediterranean coastline and the Sierra Helada mountains, SHA Wellness Clinic is Spain’s leading medical spa. Personalized programs such as Rebalance & Energize, Detox & Optimal Weight, and Ageing & Prevention are tailored to individual health goals.
Program prices vary based on duration and specific treatments; for example, a 7-night stay in a Deluxe Suite, including full board, return economy flights, and transfers, starts from £5,015 per person for the Intensive Weight Loss & Detox program. For more details or to book a program, visit the SHA Wellness Clinic website.
If you live in Spain or have visited, share your favorite spots or tips at hello@localsinsider.com.
