Review: Tour of Spain, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Bilbao, Alcazar, Alhambra

The city of Barcelona is really amazing--beautiful architecture, sophisticated culture. We spent 5 days there and definitely want to return. 

Seville was hot (as expected in July) but fascinating. Our local guide took us around for delicious tapas the first night. We had an incredible view of the Alcazar from our hotel balcony/rooftop pool. The Moorish architecture at the Mezquita in Cordoba is incredible. Also loved having a private flamenco show in Seville with local artists who discussed gitano culture.

Due to my concerns about the heat in Granada, we stayed at a hilltop hotel outside Malaga. It was very relaxed and beautiful with a gorgeous pool. We also stayed at a nice hotel about 10 minutes away from "tourist central" in San Sebastian--we loved it and are so grateful we weren't near the tourist mobs.

Our guides in Seville and the Basque region were really super. They took us places with few or no tourists and enjoyed discussing the culture and history of Spain and their regions.

Bilbao was much nicer than we expected! We liked it better than San Sebastian, which is beautiful but jammed with tourists.

Overall the food and wine in Spain are unbelievable! Also great coffee everywhere on demand. The Spanish people are very friendly. Really a great country to visit.