10 Best Photography Spots Across Spain
From Vibrant Cities to Breathtaking Landscapes, Unveil Spain's Photographic Gems
Cover photo by Sagrada Família
Welcome to the first edition of "Best Photography Spots." In this segment, I will unveil a variety of captivating destinations that I have personally explored or stumbled upon on the internet.
The compilation of these locations has been meticulously curated and crafted over a long period of time. If you find yourself captivated by what you see and want to see more, I encourage you to reach out to me using the contact details provided at the bottom of this page.
Prepare yourself for a diverse range of landscapes and atmospheres. From bustling and vibrant cityscapes to serene and tranquil environments, from hidden gems off the beaten path to iconic and well-known landmarks, this compilation offers a variety of extraordinary photographic spots.
So, get ready to dive headfirst into this article and immerse yourself in the wonders that await!
TIP: Here is a trick to maximize your experience with this blog. Create a custom map on Google Maps and pin all the fantastic spots I'll be sharing. That way, when you're on vacation, simply open the app and see if there's a nearby spot waiting for you. It's like having your own personal tour guide right at your fingertips!
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Sagrada Família, Barcelona
La Sagrada Família is like a real-life fantasy place mixed with architectural pieces of art. It's located right in the heart of Barcelona and you can find towering spires, mind-blowing details, and a mix of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. The construction began in 1882 and is still awaiting completion. That means they've been building it for more than 140 years… ¡and it's still a work in progress!
The church is known for its colorful stained glass windows allowing the rays of light to fill the entire space with an otherworldly glow. It feels like being in another galaxy. Another feature of it is the jaw-dropping ceiling. I can be compared to a gigantic stone forest. The columns shoot up like tree trunks, branching out into an incredible canopy of stone.
If you have the time and patience, I highly recommend visiting the interior of the church. However, if you prefer to skip the long queues and the entry ticket(26€/person at the time of writing this), you can still capture an amazing shot by heading to Plaça de Gaudí, the square just across the street. Stand in this specific spot facing the church and use the tree silhouettes to frame it naturally, adding a touch of magic to your photo.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Reina Sofia Palace of Arts, Valencia
The Reina Sofia Palace of Arts is an iconic opera house and performing center, designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and it stands tall in the northwest corner of Valencia.
The building has a total of 17 floors, with 14 stories rising above the ground and 3 levels underground. It is 75 meters tall, proudly claiming the title of the tallest opera house in the world, a testament to its monumental presence. Click here to see the schedule and prices.
Its futuristic design gives the impression that a spaceship from the distant future has landed in the middle of a shallow artificial pond. The sheer magnitude of this architectural marvel is enough to leave you speechless. No matter where you stand to take a picture, every angle will showcase the building's remarkable beauty. However, my personal recommendation is to position yourself somewhere south of the building and frame it partially with l’Hemisfèric, the stunning adjacent building. This combination of architectural wonders will transport your photograph into a world that feels straight out of a science fiction movie.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Alhambra, Granada
The Alhambra in Granada is like stepping into a real-life fairytale. This historic fortress and palace complex will leave you amazed with its stunning architecture and incredible attention to detail. It's a fascinating blend of Islamic and Christian influences, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the 13th century.
Inside the fortress, the play of light and space creates a magical atmosphere, with colorful stained glass windows giving the place a dreamy glow and ceilings that resemble a forest made of stone.
If you're looking to skip the lines and fees at the Alhambra (priced at 19.09€ at the time of writing, you can purchase tickets here), don't worry! Mirador de San Nicolás is located just 2 kilometers away from the fortress. This lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Alhambra and you can reach it either by car or on foot, but be aware that it can get quite crowded. If you decide to drive, keep in mind that finding parking may be a bit challenging at times. From this lookout, you'll be able to take in the true size of the palace and truly appreciate its magnitude.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo
If you are a Game of Thrones fan, chances are you are already familiar with this location, as it made an appearance in the show's seventh season, known as Dragonstone.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a church perched on a rugged island off the coast of Bermeo, a little village in the Basque Country, in Spain. If you see the place for the first time, it will make you feel like stepping into a mythical world where nature and history collide, while transporting you to a realm of ancient legends and breathtaking beauty.
As you make your way across the impressive stone bridge and climb the stairs that seem to lead to the sky, you'll feel the anticipation building. This place is one of those locations that wherever you take your pictures from, they will look amazing.
I recommend that you visit this spot as early in the morning as you can because it gets crowded extremely quickly. Keep in mind that before visiting this place, you need to have tickets, which you can find on their official website but they are free, so ¡don’t worry about incurring extra costs!
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Aqueducto de Segovia, Segovia
The Segovia Aqueduct, located in the city of Segovia, Spain, is an extraordinary architectural marvel dating back to the Roman era. This remarkable aqueduct stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient Romans, captivating visitors with its imposing presence and meticulous construction.
Stretching over 800 meters in length and standing at an impressive height of nearly 30 meters, the aqueduct is an exceptional example of Roman engineering. Constructed without the use of mortar, its massive granite blocks fit together with remarkable precision, forming a series of arches and columns that create a striking visual spectacle.
Believed to have been built in the 1st century AD, the Segovia Aqueduct served as a vital water supply system for the city, channeling water from the nearby river to meet the needs of its inhabitants. Despite its age, the aqueduct has stood the test of time and remains remarkably well-preserved, showcasing the durability and craftsmanship of its creators.
The Segovia Aqueduct's design is characterized by its arches, totaling 167 in number, which spans the entire Plaza del Azoguejo. This iconic public square offers a prime vantage point to admire the aqueduct's size and capture breathtaking pictures of this architectural masterpiece.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Metropol Parasol, Sevilla
Metrosol Parasol, also known as "Las Setas" (The Mushrooms), is a fascinating architectural construction embedded right in the heart of Seville. This modern and innovative structure stands 26 meters tall, offering a unique blend of contemporary design and historical charm.
Once you step inside (or under it), you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Seville's skyline. The top of Metropol Parasol offers the perfect vantage point to take in the city's beauty from a whole new perspective. The lighting up there is pure magic, especially on sunny days. The rays of light of the sun shine directly through the wooden slats, creating an incredible play of light and shadow. It's like stepping into a fairytale.
The entrance to see the top with 360º views of Seville costs 15€ (at the time of writing this) and you can buy the tickets here. However, if you prefer to save the 15€ for something different, you can always admire The Mushrooms from the square located under it, where locals, tourists, and street performers gather adding that typical south-of-Spain buzz to your trip!
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Mercat de La Boqueria, Barcelona
El Mercat de la Boqueria is a vibrant paradise for food lovers and explorers alike. This bustling market, located in the heart of Barcelona, offers a sensory experience of colors, aromas, and flavors. As you walk through its crowded aisles, you'll be captivated by the abundance of fresh fruits, exotic spices, aromatic cheeses, and tantalizing treats.
The first documents confirming the presence of meat stalls on Pla de la Boqueria as part of a series of street markets located on the Rambla dates back to 1217. These markets consisted of temporary stalls in the open air, many of them set up by farmers from the villages surrounding Barcelona, who came to sell their goods in the city. Nowadays, it's a place where locals and tourists come together to experience the essence of Catalan gastronomy. You can find from traditional Catalan tapas to delicious seafood, as well as a diverse array of culinary delights that will convince your taste buds and light your senses.
The vibrant atmosphere of El Mercat de la Boqueria is one of its most known traits. Colorful stalls, enthusiastic vendors, and the lively chatter of visitors from all around the world give the place a dynamic and energetic ambiance. As you navigate through the market, be sure to embrace the lively chaos and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this gastronomic treasure trove.
TIP: Be careful with your belongings while navigating the market streets as it’s very easy to fall victim of pocket pickers.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Campos de Lavanda de Brihuega, Guadalajara
The lavender landscapes of Brihuega, in Guadalajara, offer a breathtaking escape to a world of natural beauty and aromatic bliss. Guadalajara is located right in the heart of this Spain and offers these stunning landscapes which will captivate your senses with vibrant colors and mesmerizing fragrance.
If you're on the hunt for that perfect shot, the lavender landscapes of Guadalajara won't disappoint. From wandering through neatly arranged rows of lavender to standing at the edge of a vast field, every angle offers a picturesque view.
For the ultimate lavender experience, plan your visit during the blooming season, which typically takes place between June and August. That's when the fields are bursting with life, and the lavender is at its peak.
For those seeking a less crowded experience and aiming to capture vibrant hues in their photographs, the optimal moments to visit this location are either at sunrise or sunset.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Ronda, Andalucía
Ronda is a charming town nestled in the scenic region of Andalucía, known for its picturesque beauty and rich history. Its location on top of a mountain provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town is famous for its Puente Nuevo, a stunning bridge that looks like it was taken out of a medieval movie.
With its blend of ancient and modern architecture, Ronda captivates visitors with its unique charm. The town boasts a wealth of cultural and historical landmarks, including the Moorish walls, the iconic bullring, and the beautiful Santa Maria la Mayor Church. Exploring the streets of Ronda feels like stepping back in time, with narrow cobblestone alleys and whitewashed houses adding to its allure.
For the best experience, consider visiting Ronda during the spring or autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to summer. Additionally, exploring the town's attractions at your own pace allows you to fully immerse yourself in its beauty and tranquility.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Bardenas Reales, Navarra
Bardenas Reales, located in the province of Navarra, is a captivating natural landscape that will transport you to another world. This unique and surreal desert-like terrain is often compared to scenes from science fiction movies or an alien planet.
The beauty of Bardenas Reales lies in its rugged and arid landscapes, characterized by impressive rock formations, deep ravines, and vast expanses of sandy terrain. As you explore this extraordinary place, you'll encounter natural sculptures shaped by erosion, such as the famous Castildetierra, El Rallón, and Las Cabezadas.
To truly appreciate the magnificence of Bardenas Reales, it's recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is at its best. The golden hues of sunrise or sunset cast a magical glow over the landscape, enhancing the contrast and textures of the formations. It's an ideal time to capture breathtaking photographs and witness the ever-changing colors of this enchanting place!
Make sure to respect the delicate ecosystem and adhere to the designated paths and trails. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty while minimizing any negative impact on the environment.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
In Spain, you'll find an abundance of incredible photography spots that will leave you amazed and itching to capture the perfect shot. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona's Sagrada Família to the medieval charm of Ronda and the unique landscapes of Bardenas Reales, each location offers its own enchanting story. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset provide the perfect lighting for stunning photographs, but don't forget to immerse yourself in the moment and embrace the vibrant culture surrounding you.
Contact me at info@lukasabater.com or by visiting the contact section on my website www.lukasabater.com
Thanks to these publications I will be better informed of everything we have in Spain!! THANK YOU
Some of these places are in my wish list. Thank you for showing us incredible places around Spain. And it’s very easy to read!