Spain’s most beautiful city (according to the travel experts): it's neither Madrid nor Barcelona
Spain has plenty of cities that stand out for their monumental beauty and the unique radiance illuminating extraordinary natural landscapes. These are cities to hear, inspire and savour by roaming their streets and unravelling their history.
On this map of delightfully complex and exceptional cities, enthusiasts of travel in Spain have indicated, like crosses marking lost treasures, those places that dazzle the senses. These are the places to where one yearns to return and discover anew the city’s contours and to feel firsthand their essence. Indeed, this is precisely the sentiment searched for on this survey of Spain’s most beautiful city.
The travellers speak: a difficult choice
Who better to choose the most beautiful city than those who know the country best? Readers of España Fascinante and followers on social media have demonstrated their deep understanding of Spain and their passion for Spanish culture.
They have visited Spain’s big cities and its most remote villages, discovering the country’s abundant and diverse array of natural settings and historical curiosities. As a consequence, these travel experts of Spain have chosen the country’s most aesthetically pleasing city in the comments section of this post:
The difficulty of such a decision is immediately apparent in readers’ responses. Nevertheless and upon thorough evaluation, a ranking has been carried out revealing the preferences of a broad travelling community.
The contenders for Spain’s most appealing city
Amazing cities such as San Sebastián, Córdoba and Málaga made the ranking list. One region curiously appeared twice on the top 5 list of cities, a fact to be revealed shortly.
Fifth place belongs to Toledo, the emblematic city of three cultures, followed by Barcelona and its Gaudí inspired colours. The bronze medal is awarded to the vibrant eternal capital city of Madrid, while second place goes to Granada and the Nasrid allure of the Alhambra. Although the survey omits many other incredible cities, the top choices do seem comprehensible.
And Spain’s most beautiful city is…
The gold medal of Spain’s most beautiful city shares the top spot with Granada in some way, given that both cities pertain to the indelible region of Andalusia.
The winner is Seville, city of gorgeous gardens and orange trees, Andalusian charm and a unique personality. On its colour palette, the Guadalquivir River reflects like a mirror the rainbow tones of the homes in the Triana neighbourhood, the city’s impressive bridges and the amber sunsets glittering upon the Torre del Oro.
The sounds of Flamenco chords and celebrated verses from Andalusian poets fill its streets. The spirit of Seville transcends time, allowing the present to coexist with its glorious past. Seville’s Real Alcázar, the Giralda Bell Tower and Plaza de España serve as portals into the city’ rich history. Instantly recognisable scenes of Seville’s magic and its monuments make this place for many the most beautiful city in Spain.
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