Spain

Destination overview

About this destination

Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Madrid is its capital and lies inland on a high plateau. The country's coasts face both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

Mountain ranges, dry interior plains and greener northern regions create marked contrasts. Spanish is the national official language, with other official languages in several autonomous communities. Barcelona, Seville and Granada reflect different regional histories and architecture.

The Balearic and Canary Islands extend its geography beyond the mainland. Local food, festivals and long-established trading connections contribute to a cultural landscape that varies considerably between regions.