12 places to visit in 2025, one for each month
With the new year approaching, now is the time to start thinking of resolutions and choosing the places to visit in the next 12 months. The following is a selection of those places in Spain that deserve a visit in 2025 depending on the month.
Travelling in Spain in 2025: a destination for every month
1. Tenerife, a warm winter oasis
When cold becomes unbearable on the peninsula, the Canary Islands entice us with their warm, sunny climate and little rainfall. During the wintertime, Tenerife has an average daytime temperature of around 22ºC while the nights rarely fall below 15ºC. Although storms are not unheard of during this month, the waters in the south of Tenerife tend to be calmer for those looking to go swimming, and the natural pools are always a fantastic alternative.
The island of Tenerife, with its picturesque villages and the wild beauty of its natural setting, is the best way to start the new year. The area offers spectacular opportunities for active tourism, such as a visit to the stunning Teide National Park or taking part in water sports along the coast. Furthermore, there are fewer tourists during this month, making accommodation and flight bookings easier and cheaper to find.
2. Madrid, a city with heart
February is an ideal month to visit Madrid. The frenetic pace of the Christmas and New Year festivities has passed, and one can walk the streets with a bit more elbow room. And though the temperatures may still be on the chilly side, a good Madrilenian cocido or cup of hot chocolate with churros in the heart of the capital will quickly warm one up.
Musicals, museums and galleries, stand-up comedy and every other type of spectacle is on offer in Madrid and there is always something new to do. Whether it be a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Buen Retiro Park or among the immense salons of the Royal Palace, there are countless marvels to see in Madrid. A great way to finish the trip is to take in the city’s panorama from the cupola of the Almudena Cathedral.
3. Toledo, a tale of three cultures
Countless histories are etched into the narrow cobblestoned streets of Toledo, a city of three cultures. A visit to Toledo is akin to travelling in time to a medieval past when some of the city’s most famous buildings were erected. A visit to its most illustrious monuments should not be missed, including the Santa María Cathedral, the Alcázar, the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, and the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes.
Always an ideal destination, Toledo’s cold winter begins to wane by March, making it a fantastic moment to roam the old city centre and enjoy the early spring atmosphere of Toledo’s Zocodover Square.
4. Bilbao, where art blooms
In April, Spain celebrates springtime’s blooming flowers. Many festivals take place during this month including the world famous Seville Fair. On this occasion, we propose the less frequented, yet no less charming city of Bilbao, a city replete with delights.
Split by the river Nervión, Bilbao is ideal for soaking up culture and a treasure trove for any art enthusiast. Nevertheless, a simple walk through its lively maze of streets, the sight of its magnificent cathedral and the taste of a delicious pintxo is enough to appreciate the magic of Bilbao. One cannot leave Bilbao without taking in the panorama of the city from the Artxanda lookout point.
5. Palma de Mallorca, pearl of the Mediterranean
The month of May and Mallorca suit each other especially well. At this time of year, the city enjoys average temperatures of 22ºC, a perfect climate to wander its charming streets, discover the beaches, smell the aroma of almonds, and bask in its characteristic culture.
Palma de Mallorca’s true wonder is its historic city centre, comprised of such sensational monuments as the Gothic-styled Cathedral of Santa María of Palma, commonly called the Seu, with its astonishing dimensions and extraordinary beauty, as well as the Lonja or Market Hall of Palma de Mallorca. A visit to Bellver Castle, Spain’s only circular fortress, is also a highly recommended visit.
6. Cádiz, southern belle
The southern heat of Cádiz in June is fast approaching, and the summer air calls for a refreshing dip at the beach and an exploration of all that Cádiz has to offer. The city’s breathtaking cathedral, known as the Holy Cross Over the Waters, the vibrant atmosphere of San Juan de Dios Square, and the serenity of Genovés Park are just some of the highlights in Cádiz.
Cádiz is also an optimum starting point for discovering the picturesque, lesser-known villages in the region, like Setenil de las Bodegas and Arcos de la Frontera.
7. Sitges, a vibrant sunny paradise
Summer in Sitges is a singular experience when the sea breeze and warmth of the sun fill the streets of this coastal community with life as only the Mediterranean coast can do. Sitges is one of the best midsummer destinations, and it has something for everybody.
The star attraction of every postcard of the city, the parish of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, is a must-visit. However, perhaps its greatest attraction is the idyllic beaches of golden, powdery sand and turquoise waters along a spectacular maritime promenade.
8. Cudillero, a real gem
August’s perfect destination also includes a beach, but this time on the opposite side of the Iberian Peninsula, in Asturias. Known for its authentic character, Cudillero’s maritime tradition is manifest in its architecture. Its most recognised image may be its rows of multicoloured homes stacked upon one another, facing the sea, a picture-perfect scene that never fails to impress regardless of how many times one may visit this place.
Summertime in Cudillero is refreshingly cool, making it a marvelous option for enjoying a carefree holiday packed with extraordinary landscapes, an easy-going atmosphere, and delicious cuisine.
9. Segovia, a dream maze
September is the time for Segovia and its world famous Roman aqueduct, which some folklore claims was actually constructed by the devil himself. September’s weather in Segovia is pleasantly mild, making it a great moment to visit Segovia.
Beyond the aqueduct, Segovia’s other treasures include the stunning Alcázar Castle, which was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s make-believe castle, and the majestic Gothic-style Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, commonly called the Lady of Cathedrals. To discover Segovia’s other treasures, one need only wander its winding streets.
10. Zaragoza, extravagant golden domes
Cooler temperatures begin to be felt by October, heightening the charm of places like Zaragoza, where autumnal splendour culminates in a changing landscape matching the amber tones of the cupolas of the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and the auburn hues of the Aljafería Palace.
Additionally, October is a month of locally beloved festivals, including the Festivities of the Pillar, where one can have the unique opportunity to experience the essence of Zaragoza.
11. Oviedo, a masterpiece
Oviedo is a place to visit before the end of the year, and the chilly temperatures are no obstacle to this fascinating city. Oviedo is known for its art and architecture. Any visit to Oviedo should include exploring its streets to admire the vividly exquisite façades, a walk through San Francisco Park, and a visit to the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.
And if the cold becomes too much, Oviedo has many ways to warm the traveller, including its savoury Asturian fabada, cachopo or a bollu preñau, all of which can be accompanied by Asturias’ premium cider.
12. Santiago de Compostela, indelible majesty
Although the city of Vigo in Galicia may be famous for its Christmas festivities and lovely lights, Santiago de Compostela equally shines with intensity during December’s holiday season. Its architecture and rich history captivate the many visitors to Galicia’s capital city.
Although the majestic cathedral may be the heart and soul of the city, there are still countless other things to experience, such as the city’s charmingly cosy streets filled with bars and typical Galician eateries, ensuring a delicious and unforgettable end-of-year culinary experience.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.