Award-winning cultural attractions in Barcelona, Seville and Madrid

Spain is at the heart of international tourism, and five of its cultural attractions were recognised at the Remarkable Venue Awards by Tiquets in 2024 for offering experiences that seamlessly blend heritage with innovation. From Barcelona's majestic Sagrada Familia to immersive experiences such as flamenco in Madrid or a family theme park in Seville. The National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona has been recognised as Best Museum, thanks to its collection that spans from Romanesque to the avant-garde art, covering all artistic disciplines from the 10th to the 20th centuries. The collection features outstanding artists such as El Greco, Zurbarán, Velázquez, Fortuny, Gaudí, Casas, Torres-García, Julio González, Dalí and Picasso. In the Best Brand category, Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia reaffirms its status as a global tourist icon. This masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, the foremost figure of Catalan modernism, is a must for travellers. More than 140 years after its cornerstone was laid, the Basilica remains under construction.

The Sagrada Familia is Spain’s most visited monument and the second most visited church in Europe, after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican © Shutterstock

Barcelona’s Museo del Arte Prohibido (Museum of Forbidden Art) was awarded the Best Hidden Gem. With over 200 works censored, condemned or banned for political, social or religious reasons, its collection offers visitors an alternative journey that sparks the curiosity of adventurous travellers drawn to unconventional artistic narratives. In Madrid, the Best Activity award was presented to the Tablao Flamenco Torres Bermejas (flamenco stage), which connects directly with the vibrant living tradition of Spanish folklore. It recreates the interior of Granada’s Alhambra Torres Bermejas, featuring intricate Arab motifs, glazed tiles and wooden coffered ceilings. This immersive experience captivates those seeking deep cultural roots and authenticity.

At Torres Bermejas tablao, top flamenco artists come together to deliver an unforgettable live singing and dancing performance without microphones © Torres Bermejas

Isla Mágica, in Seville, was awarded Best Family Experience for its engaging blend of entertainment and educational content. This Andalusian theme park, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022, is an ideal option for multigenerational tourism.

The Jaguar is Isla Mágica’s largest roller coaster, featuring a 32-metre drop and reaching speeds up to 85 kilometres per hour © Isla Mágica