Spanish destinations: the perfect combination of tradition, modernity, and excellence

Spain is climbing the ranks for international luxury tourism, thanks to its destinations’ investments and improvements to their complementary offerings. The combination of personalized and private experiences in iconic resorts and high-end hotels in historic buildings, coupled with Michelin-starred gastronomy, prestigious brands, and sustainability as a central pillar, make the country a top destination for those seeking comfort, privacy, and authenticity.

Barcelona and Madrid: elite shopping and culture

Madrid and Barcelona remain two of the most sought-after urban destinations for high-end tourists. The luxury-hotel offering continues to expand, with the arrival of large international groups in both destinations and the consolidation of experiences that combine art, gastronomy, and exclusive shopping. In the capital, tourists can enjoy private visits to the Royal Palace or the Prado Museum, without the crowds. In Barcelona, exclusivity can be discovered in private tours of the Sagrada Familia or the Casa Batlló to admire Gaudí's legacy, as well as VIP experiences at the Liceu theatre. For fashion lovers, 'golden miles' such as Calle Serrano in Madrid or Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona offer haute-couture boutiques and exclusive jewelry stores, with the option of a personal shopper for a tailor-made experience.

Hiring a private sailboat with on-board crew is one of the most sought-after luxury experiences in Mallorca © Shutterstock

Islands and coasts: luxury in sea and air

The most famous marinas in Spain can be found in Ibiza, Mallorca, Barcelona, Marbella, or Cádiz, from which tourists can set off on sailing boats or private catamarans with on-board crew and chef, and even gaze upon the stars with Starlight experts. Golf lovers will find renowned golf courses on the Costa del Sol, as well as in the Valencian Community or in Mallorca—an island that is transforming its tourism model with a commitment to sustainability and luxury, enjoying the backing of international hotel brands such as Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental. In Tenerife, the combination of beach, nature, and wellness is winning over the high-end segment, while Galicia has become an emerging destination, driven by its authenticity and gastronomic offer.

Research, creativity, and making the most of products, together with environmental-awareness work: these are the hallmarks of Aponiente, awarded three Michelin Stars © Restaurante Aponiente

Prestigious haute cuisine and enotourism

Spain is a world leader in gastronomy with 16 restaurants awarded three Michelin stars, from DiverXO in Madrid to Arzak in San Sebastián, Atrio in Cáceres, or Aponiente in Cádiz. Wine tourism also shines bright with wineries such as Marqués de Riscal in La Rioja, where luxury extends to accommodation and wine-therapy treatments.