Travel And Be Curious

Tourists can experience a variety of adventures in Cordoba, which is frequently described as Moorish Spain. The capital of Al-Andalus, the city was once the biggest in Europe and the center of learning and culture, it was referred to as the Mecca of the West. Anyone would be in for an unforgettable experience in the city, with all of its sights and attractions, nightlife, cuisine, and festivals.

Cordoba is one of the places that you should include in your “Must see cities in Spain.” You would never go wrong in deciding to visit the wonderful city. The city of Cordoba has a lot to offer to its visitors. It has a wide array of tourist spots for anyone to enjoy. From garden and parks for nature lovers, old churches and synagogues for those interested in religious architecture, to vibrant festivals and a dynamic nightlife for the party goers. Cordoba has all these.

The city of Cordoba is the capital of the province of Cordoba. Its rich culture and architecture that is still evident today is proof of the city’s very rich culture. During the later part of the 10th century the city was inhabited by about 500,000 people and was the most populated city in the entire Europe and was thought to have also been the most populated city in the entire world. It has now decreased in population and as of 2008 had an estimated number of 325, 453 inhabitants.

Rich Culture Cordoba has been witness to a lot of changes and transformations throughout centuries. Originally the city was predominantly Catholic until the Islamic conquest it then was home to a number of Islamic rulers. Each occupation resulted to a different mark in the city’s history and the city’s culture.

The different changes that the city underwent resulted to a number of architectural marvels. One of this is the Great Mosque of Cordoba which is now known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. There are a number of old churches that you can still see today. Among these are San Nicolás de la Villa, San Miguel, and Santa Marina church.

Attractions and Sights in Cordoba

The architectural structures of the city that date hundreds of years ago are something that would really enthrall and fascinate visitors. Mezquita, the city’s Great Mosque and one of the world’s largest, should not be missed by anybody. 785 years old, the structure is by far the most beautiful and biggest construction of the Moors in Spain. For tourists, a visit to the place should be among the highlights.

Cordoba History

The city of Cordoba is the capital of the province of Cordoba. It is a city that is 2000 years old and it is a city that is packed with a very rich culture. The city was home to Moors at one time, then to Romans at another time. These settlers left their respective marks in the city of Cordoba which up to this day can still be very much seen around the area.

Roman Rule

In 206 BC, Cordoba was ruled by the Romans. During the time of Julius Caeser, it was the city of Cordoba that was named the capital city of Hispania Ulterior Baetica, a Roman province. At this time, there were a lot of notable people in history that were produced from the great Roman Cordoba. The poet Lucan and the great Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus were among those that originated from the Roman capital city of Southern Spain.

Islamic Rule

The Moors’ rule over the city of Cordoba began in the year 711. Cordoba was then witness to a lot of changes. First it was named as the provincial capital of the Damascus Caliphate. This happened in 716. Then 50 years after in 766, it became the provincial capital of Al-Andalus, an independent Muslim emirate. It finally became a Caliphate in 1000 AD.

It was said that during this time of the Islamic ruling over the city, Cordoba was considered as the biggest city, one that had the most developed administrative system and the city that had the most refined culture in the entire Europe.

The reason behind the city’s great progress and recognition during the earliest part of the tenth century was due to the three grand rulers Add-ar-rahman III, who was the first Caliph; Al-Hakam II, his son; and Al-Mansur-Ibn Abi-Amir, also known as Almansor.

The fall of the city began when the mini states surfaced. Their leaders lacked the leadership skills and this paved way for the city of Cordoba to be recaptured by the Christians in 1236. This happened after a several months of cordon. It was King Ferdinand III of Castile that led the capture. He then divided the city to 14 barrios and also added a number of churches all over the city.

After Renaissance

Cordoba declined after the renaissance period. During the 18th century its population dropped to 20,000, a huge difference from the time of the Islamic rule when it had up to 500,000 inhabitants. The economy also dropped after during this time.

It was only during the 20th century that the city’s economy as well as the population began to increase. Now, the city is a thriving tourist spot that gives its visitors a peek at its rich culture through the architecture and the various festivals that were left by their early settles.

Top Cordoba Attractions

Cordoba holds a lot of history, when you go on a site seeing tour on Cordoba’s top tourist spots, be captivated by its wonderful sceneries, great views and historical landmarks. Your Cordoba vacation would never be complete without a tour on Cordoba’s finest sites.

Mezquita / Cordoba Cathedral

Go down on a spiritual journey on Cordoba’s grandest and most beautiful mosque. The Mezquita was constructed by the late Moors during their occupation on Cordoba. You can easily find it for it is located upright at the heart of the city. Don’t be confused with the name; the Cordoba Cathedral is also a mosque. It was said so that after the Christians chased the Moors off the city, they were awestruck by the mosque’s elegance that they were reluctant to tear it down. So instead of destroying it, they built a cathedral within its walls.

Alcazár de los Reyes Cristianos

Christopher Columbus himself walked the gardens of this fine vicinity. It was here that he requested the funds for his voyage all over the world. The gardens of Alcazar serve as a memorabilia of this fine event. The building founded now were formerly where the Inquisition dwell. In the present time, it hosts Cordoba’s finest mosaic collection.

Judería

Cordoba has a lot of spiritual quarters from the past history that is preserved until today. When you walk the length of the streets where the old Jewish quarters lie, it is where you will see a few of the remaining synagogues of Spain. Only three stand in the present and Cordoba is proud to own it.

Plaza del Potro

The old square of Cordoba is a special place, even now, it is still a preferred place to hang out and socialize. It is a pleasant place for afternoon strolls or even just for drinking coffee.

Plaza de la Corredera

The Ayuntamiento or the present town square is busy and always teeming with life. It has undergone a couple of reconstructions and now it hold a Roman amphitheater, a bullring for those who want to witness an actual bullfight and it is also the Time Square of Cordoba where people flock to celebrate important fiestas and occasions. It is also where they countdown the seconds to New Year. Amongst its quaint architecture it is also a shopping and bazaar site where you can make great deals and find souvenirs for your Cordoba expedition.

Architecture in Cordoba

Cordoba, a World Heritage site, is also a Mecca of great architectural finds. Because of its rich history it has a number of religious monuments and other structures that will surely leave you at awe.

Religious Structures

The Mosque-Cathedral with the buildings and streets that are surrounding it has been named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994. In its different sections you will be able to see the Omeyan style of the building. While in other parts you will also see the different styles of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque incorporated. The building served as a Mosque at one point in time and a Church in another time. The most notable feature about the Mosque-Cathedral is the huge arches that comprised of red and white columns. These were made up of marble, onyx, jasper and granite.

The Synagogue that was built by architect in 1315 Isaac Moheb follows the Mudejar style. This is another great architectural edifice in Cordoba that you shouldn’t miss. In the entire Spain, it is one of the most preserved Medieval Synagogues. Aside from the Mudejar-style plant patterns that are decorated all over its main hall, the Synagogue also has three arches that are filled with decorative plasterwork in the women’s tribune.

Other Monuments

The other monuments in Cordoba that you will be in awe of its architecture are the Royal Stables with its sandstone pillar-supported vaulted ceiling, the Castle of Christian Monarchs with its solid defensive walls and its fortress that is almost rectangular shaped, the Medina Azahara, and the Calahorra Tower.

Cordoba Has Something for Everyone

Cordoba is considered as one of the best places to visit in Southern Spain. From its rich history and architecture, to its abundance of tourist spots and festivals it surely would be a place that will make your trip a most memorable one.

A Place for Everyone You would never run out of places to see in Cordoba. If you like visiting historical sites, there are a lot to choose from. Among the many historical places in Cordoba, the Palacio de Viana is one that you shouldn’t miss. It is a National Monument that welcomes more than seventy thousand visitors to its doors every year.

For the nature lover, there are also a number of places where you could spend your time in when in the city. Alcazar Gardens is one of these places. Its lush garden includes a walkway adorned with tall green plants with a fish pond at the center, different varieties of botanical species and several water fountains that are spread all over the place.

The city also has a lot of places to go where you can witness its rich architecture. One of the best places to visit is the Great Mosque of Cordoba. Originally, the building was erected as a Christian Visigothic Church. When Cordoba was conquered by the Arabs, it was converted into a mosque and underwent a lot of restorations.

Now, it has been turned back again into a church and is known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. The giant arches that which have columns that are made of marble, onyx, jasper and granite is what the structure is most known for.

Festive Celebrations Cordoba is also home to a lot of festivals that keep the town alive and busy all year round. The month of May though is the most visited time of the year as it is when three of the many festivals in Cordoba are celebrated.

The Crosses of May Festival which happens at the start of May lasts up to four days. It is a competition for best adorned and the best flower decorated cross. During this time tourists will be able to see beautifully decorated crosses placed in squares and streets of the city.

Busy Nightlife The city’s dynamic nightlife is another thing to any tourist can enjoy when in Cordoba. Nightspots that showcase Flamenco dance performances and bars that serve the local wine are some of the places to visit during nighttime.

Shopping in Cordoba

Whether you are a shopaholic, window shopper or hunting for bargains and memorabilia, then get ready for the Cordoba shopping spree.

Cordoba is a good shopping city for a spending spree, from cheap buys to posh signature items. At the suburban area of downtown Cordoba is the home of the shopping malls. The most active shopping district is at the Mercado Norte, here you will find bargain prices and cheaper goods.

There are also modern shopping malls which are huge and in fact offer you all the varieties of what you would which to find.

The Patio Olmos and Garden Shopping found at the center. The Dinosaurio Mall and Cordoba Shopping located at the northwest and the Nuevo Centro Shopping found westward. Here you will find all sorts of stuff from souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, bags; branded or not; you’ll find it here. You can roam around the malls for endless hours and always find something interesting that you would wish to buy.

If you’re the sophisticated type, there are boutiques that sell designer items from both local and international designers. For those who are more casual then there are shops also to fit your budget without compromising your style.

Here are some helpful Spanish words for shoppers: “liquidacion,” “traspaso,” and “rebajas”, simply means that they are on sale so watch out for these words on the store windows and glass.

Local arts and crafts are also made available and sold to the public at Paseo de Las Artes, recommended during Saturdays and Sundays. If you’re the one who appreciates the value of art and crafts, then the place to go is the Parque las Heras, especially on the weekends.

You will see here hand crafted accessories, decorations, vases and paintings; they make great souvenir items and are unique.

At Guemes District, you can do your food shopping for local delicacies like alfajores, sweet hams, honey and of course, tapas. That’s if you want to bring home some of Cordoba’s best foods or if you want to try and cook a delicacy yourself.

There are other shops and malls located at the city square and also the pedestrian malls even after 8 PM. Night markets and shopping is also made available, the prices are much cheaper and you can even bargain for the items that you wish to buy. This is especially true on weekends where the streets are oiled with shoppers going on a spree.

Cordoba Festivals

Cordoba, being a city that is rich in culture, has a lot of festivals that are celebrated all the year round. From the religious festivals that have become tradition to Cordoba to the modern festivals that attract a multitude of tourists, these festivals are truly a thing to experience.

Religious and Traditional Festivals

The Carnival. Singers dress up in comparsas and parade the city’s streets then go to the Grand Theatre to showcase their talent in singing comic pieces. There is also a parade that can be participated by the public and it too is done throughout the city’s streets. This is celebrated annually on the second fortnight of the month of February.

Holy Week. This is observed annually and a venue where Christian’s can publicly pronounce their faith. Processions are done in the city’s streets and during this time the city is unusually solemn.

The May Crosses. Celebrated at the start of May, this festival includes the competition on the best flower-adorned crosses and also the Battle of the Flowers which is for the best flower decorated floats.

Modern Festivals

The White Night of Flamenco. This is celebrated for one whole night every June. Different artists like Jose Merce, El Pele, and Miguel Poveda perform at the different streets and squares throughout the city. It is considered as the largest Flamenco event in the world with 200,00 people attending just in the firs year.

Nights of Charm. Every July and August, Cordoba holds this festival which is a celebration of the rich culture of the city. All the nights of these two months are filled with theatre, music and dance performances as well as other artistic events.

Cordoba Dining

You can never go wrong with dining in Cordoba, with their exotic and fresh food, spicy flavors and appealing taste and aroma which just fills your stomach and make you content without feeling guilty about your diet.

Savor the delicacies and scrumptious foods of the Cordobans and taste the grand flavors of Cordoba’s finest dishes. You can go to bars, restaurants and even simple cafeterias if you want to taste their local cuisine.

If you want a sunny luncheon with a pleasing atmosphere, then the Taberna Pepe de la Juderia is the perfect cozy place for you to dine out. It’s a delightful little café located at the old Jewish Quarter not far off Mezquita. The shops’ location at the corner of the sidewalk gives you a glimpse of the streets if you just want to observe the outside activity. The inside of the restaurant has that diner’s feel to it, complete with a Hall-of-Fame, photos and memorabilia of famous patrons lining it’s wall.

They pride themselves with great service, all smiles on customers and really prompt service whatever the weather. They offer the tastiest sandwiches with olives and Iberian Ham that just tingles your taste. They also have the favored Flamenquin, both loved by tourists and customers. If you’re the one to follow the guidebooks of the best restaurants in Cordoba, then this one will surely appear in the list.

The Hotel and Restaurant Vallina at the back of Mezquita, offers you fine dining at it’s best. It has a classic interior owing to the fact that the building is 1600-years-old but with some renovation and refurbished walls and décor, the place is just grand. The place is decorated with huge wine barrels, tile work and wine storage. As always, with Cordoban hospitality, the service is outstanding but the menu is even of greater significance to the diners. The house specialty is Salmorejo, an cold gazpacho soup with sliced ham and hard-boiled egg and they are always complimented for their great dessert selection.

If you want a comfortable place with a great view, then the Rincon Bar is the perfect place for you. If you want a hearty meal or just a light snack, then opt for this bar. Rincon means “corner” in Spanish. It’s a lovely place but with just enough space, they have comfortable chairs and low tables with couch-type seats along the sides. From their extensive menu, you cant try out for their “Menu del Dia”, a complete meal set to satisfy your hunger. If you just want some snacks or a quick place to stop by for some refreshments, then of course, they offer tapas with beer in their menu.

Nightlife in Cordoba

When in Cordoba, you wouldn’t want to miss out all the fun, day or night. During the day, you get to visit all the must see sights and photograph all the way. At night, it’s the time to unwind, socialize and just continue wit the fun, Cordoba style. Cordoba night outs are fun, colorful and just to put it simply, party till you drop.

There are a variety of bars, pubs and restaurants to choose from in Cordoba. You can choose from different locations, if you want it to be in the confines of the city where you can hop on bars and clubs. If you are more adventurous, there are also beach parties that you can go to. Then there are the classy bars that offer you fine dining, great wine selection, classical music; where you can just relax but still socialize with others.

They say, the real party starts at midnight. As most Cordobans tend to roam around the night, enjoying drinks and tapas, it is a golden opportunity for you to befriend them, it’s best to go out on weekends where there are day-offs for the locals.

Here are a few of Cordoba’s best night out locations:

The Taberna Casa Salinas, is one of the oldest and established pubs in Cordoba. Located at Puerto de Almodóvar, this pub has an air of nostalgia for both locals and tourists alike. They offer glasses of sherry’s, fresh tapas with spicy Andalusian sausages and buckets of olives for good measure. This pub has ran for a good four decades and still up and running. Sometimes, they stage flamenco shows and that’s something any tourist would want to see.

If you’re the type who wants to dance to the beat of independent music then you can go to Soul at Calle de Alfonso XIII, located near the city hall. Within the vicinity, there are also other clubs that you can go to such as Moloko (Alfaros 29) and la Communa (Calle Caño 1), they offer great food, great music and overall, you get to have a great night.

There is also Soho, located near the river of Calle San Fernando. They play modern and indie music too.

When you get to visit Cordoba during summertime, there is always a buzz around Vial Norte at El Brilliante. If you want to party till dawn then Chinales is the place to go. During summer, it’s the time where the bars and clubs get to be pretty crowded with all the after school parties, locals and tourists enjoying the food, drinks and social highlights brought about by the summertime heat.

Cordoba Transportation

Going around the city to visit its many tourist spots is not even difficult for any tourist. There are a number of transportations available for everyone which makes it very easy to travel for the non-locals. There are a lot of taxis available that can take you anywhere you want to go.

Just come prepared with a ready Spanish words or phrases or carry with you a Spanish-English dictionary as some of the drivers don’t speak English fluently. You can also use the coaches to get around the city. The city buses that are highly noticeable because of their vibrant hues is also another transportation option.

La Coruña, also known in the municipality of Galicia as A Coruña, has been the regional capital from 1833 to 1982 before Santiago de Compostela took its place. Its name is also the same as the province’s name, and is a provincial capital. It is part of Galicia which is an autonomous community in Spain.

Galicia is a region where one will marvel at its lush greenery and spectacular landscapes. On the east of La Coruña is Lugo, Pontevedra on the south, and the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Ocean on the west and north.

The Nature Park islands of the Atlantic islands are also part of the province. It is a hectic port which serves as the point for distribution of agricultural goods coming from the region. “A Coruña”, the Galician name, is currently the official name of the city.

“La Coruña”, the Spanish name, is still known across Spain and is the traditional name approved by the Real Academia Española for texts published in Spanish. It is also the name used by speakers of Spanish in their conversations and in legal or official documents. La Coruña has a moderate temperature with occasional rainfall.

The climate can be compared to an Oceanic climate since it is moderated by the Atlantic Ocean. Autumn and winter, that go with strong winds and heavy rainfall, are erratic. Since the ocean allows the temperatures to remain mild, snow is hardly experienced.

It is sunny and dry during the summer, although it rains occasionally. Spring is calm and cool. With this climate, beach lovers would surely enjoy the province. It is also a perfect place for water sports such as diving, fishing, sailing, surfing and a lot more.

Nowadays, La Coruña is considered a modern city where fishing and agricultural industries coincide with renowned and successful industries in fashion. Shops from the city of La Coruña have been known across the globe. It also has an international airport that offers flights to neighboring Spanish and European cities.

Portugalia, Iberia and Spanair are some of the famous airlines in the city. Deportivo de la Coruña is the city’s football club included in the country’s top division.

Another city in La Coruña that will capture the hearts of many visitors is Santiago de Compostela. It is a town that warmly welcomes a multitude of pilgrims annually. “Camino de Santiago” or The Way of St. James served as a pilgrimage route during the medieval times and is famous for its cathedral.

Explore La Coruña City in Spain

The city of La Coruña being the provincial Capital of Galicia has a number of interesting things to offer a tourist. One of these would be a district of old churches and buildings which highlights different architectural designs. Another would be the alluring new promenade which actually runs the city’s seaside perimeter.

You can walk along the promenade and enjoy the view of the city at a different perspective or the view of the ocean while enjoying the cool sea breeze. The promenade also has allows you to walk through the different tourist spots of the city as the roads that lead to these tourist attractions are connected to the promenade.

If you’re not fond of walking it will not be a problem because you can take advantage of the tram system that runs along the sea front as well. It moves along the sea front center of the “Puerto de A Coruna” and to the middle of the “Ensenada del Orzan” and it passes several stops some of them are the city’s different attractions as well such as the Tower of Hercules, Domus and Castle de San Anton, the ride would cost one euro one way.

Coruna’s large harbor is also a marvelous sight if you pass by Marina Avenue you would be able to witness one of the highlights of Coruna architecture the galleria; a term for used for a balcony that is enclosed in a glass frame.

The best time to visit this side of the city would be during a clear day or on a clear evening because it is when you would be able to enjoy the beautiful reflection of light brought about by this architectural design. This is actually the reason why the city is also called “glass city” or “crystal city”.

The city also has its own medieval district just like other cities of Galicia. It is usually referred to as “the city”. The first noticeable thing would be the remnant of the Roman walls that used to protect and enclose the ancient Roman city in this place. It has old structures and buildings that you could also view as you walk along the area.

Aside from all those mentioned you could also visit the city’s main plaza The Maria Pita Square derives its name from the local town heroine. The main entrance of the square is located at the harbor’s side.

The plaza displays an attractive façade in all of its sides and you can also visit the Town Hall and Council building known as Palacio Municipal which in the area as well including some bars and restaurants.

History of La Coruna

La Coruna is believed to have been the dwelling of the Celtic tribe Artrabians prior to the Roman occupation o 2nd n century BC. It encompasses the Tower of Hercules and onto the mainland. The oldest part of which is the High City or the Cidade Alta which is built on an ancient Celtic castro.

As mentioned the Romans had this place as part of the great Roman Empire in 2nd century BC. The colonizers used this as a strategic position to control the maritime trade within the area during that period. Julius Caesar also visited this historic place in pursuit of metal trades of the region. Due to the increase in commercial activity the town began to grow. The Norman incursion caused the decline of population and commerce.

The subsequent demise of the Roman Empire did not abandon the trade routes which became the continuous source of commerce for people who took advantage of the strategic trade position of the country during that time.

After the rush and different attacks by the Norman raiders the local tribes which was what characterized the middle ages for this region. It was not clear if the whole region was also included in the short Muslim rule that occurred in the Iberian Peninsula in the latter part of the middle ages. This is of course notwithstanding the constant threats and raids by the Normans and the AL-Andalus to the south.

In the 9th century Vikings also began to attack the city. This led to the construction of several defense structures such as the fortress made in Faro.

In the 15th century the city became popular for its manufacture of textiles no other than Charles I of Spain visited La Coruna and due to this important commercial fact a port in the area was made and was also protected with the creation of the castle of San Anton.

A La Coruna was also the site of important battles during the Peninsula war the Battle of La Coruna on January 1809 was a war between the French and British troops to cover the embarkation of the Brtish troops after their retreat. This is the battle that killed Sir John Moore and in that particular war La Coruna was the only Galician city that achieved success against the French troops.

At the start of the 20th century La Coruna was greatly affected by several major events namely: The Great Depression , the Spanish Civil War and it shattered the economy of Coruna. Luckily during the 1960’s and 1970’s La Coruna became recipient of what they now call the Spanish miracle but the steady increase in the economy was disturbed by the international oil shocks.

Coruna Things To Do

La Coruna presents numerous destinations to see, adventures to experience and activities to do. The city is blessed with rich environment. Plus, the locals are friendly people who are always glad to welcome tourists and friends.

When you come for a visit, make sure to stay longer so you will experience more fascinating things the city has in store for you. If you are finished strolling around some of the best tourist destinations, here are more things to do to maximize your stay.

Museums

There are a lot of ways to learn about the culture of La Coruna but the best way if you’re travelling is to visit the nearest museums. Museums in the city contain a variety of information. It gives you the history of La Coruna as well as it narrates how its practices evolved from one period of time to another.

In La Coruña there are several museums that you could go to some of these are the Archaeological museum, Domus, House Museum Picasso, The Fine Arts Museum, Emilia Pardo Bazán Museum, Eugenio Granell Foundation and Contemporary Art Museum.

Architecture

La Coruña is complete with fascinating architecture recognized throughout Spain. La Coruña architecture is marked by the excellence of their structural design, facade and functionality. Some of the known architecture in the city includes Tower of Hercules, Castillo de San Anton, galerias, Obelisk, Castro de Elviña, and The Dome of Coal. Visit Architecture in La Coruña .

Festivals

Generally June to August is the occasions of the rich and colorful celebration and festival for the whole Galacian region. The fascinating La Coruña festivals include Hogueras de San Juan, Fuego del Apóstol, and Maria Pita. Visit La Coruña Festivals for more information.

Night Life

Other than eating and dining, the city also offers wide range of night activities that you surely don’t want to miss. This La Coruña Night Life, La Coruña Bars and La Coruña Clubs sections are committed in providing you the things you want to know about the A Coruna’s very active night life. Visit La Coruña Night Life for more information.

Shopping

La Coruña will not be left behind with the latest technology, fashion and other commercial products found in the market today. You will be amazed with the wide selection of products found only in La Coruna. It will truly be a different shopping experience for you. Some of the shopping destinations in the city includes Marineda City Leisure, Shopping & Business Centre, Los Rosales Shopping Centre and Cuatro Caminos. Visit Shopping in La Coruña .

Top Attractions in A Coruna

La Coruña is a city that enables every visitor to reminisce the past, and enjoy the fabulous sceneries and festivities. The Battle of Coruña occurred in the city during the Peninsular War. In the 19th century, Coruña was the seat of anti-monarchist conviction.

The city also played a significant part in the “Rexurdimento”, where the Galician Royal Academy was founded in 1906 and the Brotherhoods of the Galician Language in 1916. In 1804, a workers’ movement was formed after the establishment of the National Cigarette Factory.

Tourists cannot miss the promenade which is one of the main attractions in the city. It measures 10 kilometers and considered as the longest in Europe.

The city is also the site of a lighthouse, the Roman Tower of Hercules, which has been declared a Human Heritage by the UNESCO. It has gallerias or balconies with glazed windows. During the summer, Orzan and Riazor beaches are famous destinations and are located opposite the city’s port.

After the daytime walk, visitors still have a lot to look forward to during the night. Nightlife in Coruña has been booming with bars and clubs located at Calle Orzan that is parallel to Paseo Maritimo. Most of the clubs at Orzan open at 11 pm and close at 3 or 4 am. Another famous destination is Los Jardines or The Gardens which is a park near El Puerto mall and Calle Real.

Tourists dare not miss the city of Santiago de Compostela, a World Heritage City and Galicia’s capital. It is also widely known for it is the last stage of St. James’ pilgrimage route or “El Camino de Santiago”. Pilgrims head straight to the cathedral then to the city center. The cathedral is a place for rites and traditions that visitors may love to witness.

Visitors will also notice how pilgrims manifest their faith by embracing the image of St. James the Apostle. There is also Botafumeiro, a big incense holder that is raised high enough in the ceilings of the cathedral while a mass is being held.

After visiting the marvelous St. James Cathedral, tourists can head towards the fascinating 12th century streets such as Rua Nova, Rua do Vilar, Rua Franco and the square Obradoiro. Extend one’s sightseeing activity and visit the region of Costa da Morte or the Coast of Death. It is the area of cliffs hanging over the Atlantic and lighthouses. This zone was once believed as “the end of the known world”. There is Cape Finisterre, a peninsula that is 5 km long.

The lighthouse was built on the cape’s end in 1853, and is now referred to as the “cow of Fisterra” since it is a siren warning the nearby ships. The peninsula ends at Mount Facho which is the best place to witness the sunset. If one wishes to go to fishing villages, head south to Rias Baixas where villages like Muros and Noia can be found.

Other destinations worth visiting are Rias Altas where you can visit Ferrol, Viveiro, Betanzos, Ribadeo and Pontedeume. Os Bergantiños and As Mariñas are also ideal destinations.

La Coruna Museums

There are a lot of ways to learn about foreign culture but the best way if you’re travelling is to visit the nearest museums. Museums contain a variety of information. It gives you the history of the place as well as it narrates how the practices of one place evolved from one period of time to another. In La Coruña there are several museums that you could go to.

Archaeological museum. The first is the archaeological museum which is located on what used to be an old fort The Castle of St. Anton. This is where you will find and learn about La Coruna’s history and prehistory. They have artifacts that would show you records of settlements by the early Celtics tribes.

Domus. The House of Mankind or Domus as it is popularly named is a museum fully dedicated to the study of man, his nature and his activities. It’s an interactive museum meaning you can participate in the different modules to help you learn and reflect on the different characteristics of men as a species.

For the art lovers, La Coruña would be the refuge you have longed for, because the place has five great art museums. They are dedicated to commemorate and display the works of famed and prestigious artists these are: House Museum Picasso, The Fine Arts Museum, Emilia Pardo Bazán Museum, Eugenio Granell Foundation and last but not the least The famous Contemporary Art Museum.

For the pure seekers of wisdom and knowledge La Coruna also offers the perfect spots for you the House of Sciences which is the first public owned interactive museum in Spain. It has a small planetarium and different exhibition halls devoted to Physics and of course the Aquarium Finisterrae which is a center for the Marine Sciences.

La Coruña Architecture

La Coruña is complete with fascinating architecture recognized throughout Spain. La Coruña architecture is marked by the excellence of their structural design, façade and functionality. If you want to be amazed with the city’s architectural heritage, you may visit the following venues.

The Tower of Hercules is perhaps the real symbol of A Coruna. It is a magnificent piece of architecture (a lighthouse) that predates to the second century and is in itself a source of many wonderful legends. It was built during the reign of Emperor Trajan and rebuilt throughout the years to withstand the challenges of time. It is now declared as a National Monument.

Another very interesting historical architectural work is the Castillo de San Anton. It is a fort but not of the ordinary kind it is one of the famed star forts, an architectural innovation which became popular in the sixteenth centuries. It is situated on a small island and is artificially joined to the mainland.

Other than that the city also boasts of its gallerias which are glazed window balconies a form of architecture derived from the naval practice. This was originally designed for the back of a war ship. Other famous architectural sites are The Obelisk, Castro de Elviña, and The Dome of Coal.

After marveling at the wonderful architecture and their different historical background you might want to visit the Edge of the Earth or what used to be believed by the Celtics as such where the Aquarium Finisterrae is located. It is a marine research center which studies the sea in general. However, If you want to skip the learning part and just stick to a worry-free stress free vacation you can work on your tan, read a book, surf, or swim at these famous beaches Orzán and Riazor.

Theaters in La Coruna

La Coruña has a rich custom with different cultural and artistic expressions most predominantly music. The city is also the home of renowned contemporary artist of the region. Consequently, contemporary theaters have mushroomed all over the place, giving the people of La Coruna another wonderful source of entertainment. Here’s an overview of the city’s theater and some venues.

The local music scene is vibrant and most of the genres are well represented by local artists. The place celebrates classical music which is very understandable because it is considered a place rich in culture and heritage and music is an integral part of a place’s heritage. Several orchestras have played in the city’s theaters.

One of the famous events that celebrate this type of Music is the Mozart festival. The festival is usually held between the months of May and July and usually features the Baroque opera or music played in the pre-romantic period basically dominated by Mozart and Rossini however, the festival also plays other classical music and artists.

Teatro Colón

This classicist aesthetic theater is situated at Avenida de la Marina. According to its history, the man who founded the building is the popular show master, Emilio Rey Romero. His idea was to provide optimal seating comfort and host a variety of stage performances and films.

Consequently, by the year 1945, Jacobo Rodríguez-Losada Trulock began with the architectural design of the building, projecting the set accurately described classicist aesthetic safe bet for a building so unique in size and position. From then on the building has under gone remodeling over the years which made it the beautiful structure that it is today.

Teatro Rosalia de Castro

This magnificent theater is located at Irrigation Water, 37 under. The building is now considered as a cultural institution owned by the municipality and managed by Instituto Municipal Coruña Shows of the Council of A Coruña. It has now been remodeled and can now fit about approximately 700 seats. Not to mention, the theater is now equipped to accommodate different variety of performing arts.

Festivals in La Coruña

June, July and August are the busiest months in A Coruna. Not only that these three are summer months and the best time to visit the city’s astounding beaches, it’s also the occasions of the rich and colorful celebration and festival for the whole region. In this segment, you will be given an overview fascinating La Coruña festivals that you might find interesting and helpful for your visit.

Hogueras de San Juan

The San Juan Bonfires is celebrated on the 23rd day of June. This feast is commemorated in all European countries but only in La Coruña that is it celebrated in a more traditional manner. It coincides with the Sardine festival so as the locals performs a rite by lighting bonfires with what they call aguardiente or firewater before spending the night jumping over the fire and eating sardine. It is said to ensure fertility as well.

Fuego del Apóstol

Apostle’s Fireworks is the highlight in the celebration of the feast of the patron saint of Spain, Saint James. At exactly 12 noon of the 24th day of July, the cathedral bells rings as a mark of the launching of the feast and Plaza del Obradoiro gets crowded by locals and tourists to witness the colorful fireworks display.

The locales and devotees also give tribute to the saint through their prayer processions and presentation of different exhibitions, theatre performances, street theatre and concerts. Another fascinating event during this feast is called “Botafumeiro”, large ceremonial incense burner that is swung vigorously over the smaller crossing, filling the cathedral with the smell of incense.

It is believed that the discovery of the remains of the first martyr led to the announcement of Santiago de Compostela as the capital of the Galician region. It is to be considered as the holy land next to Jerusalem and Rome. The city is recognized up to this date as a pilgrimage site and now gained its World Heritage status.

Maria Pita

La Coruña honors the greatest event in their history by commemorating the brave act of their heroine, Maria Pita and the people to save the port during the English attack led by Sir Francis Drake that took place in 1588.

The celebration includes the spectacular re-enactment of the English invasion, complete with parade of costumes throughout A Coruna. There’s also the re-creation of the medieval market place and the procession of the colorful floats at the sea.

La Coruña for Kids

La Coruña is not just a place for adults, the city offers your kid’s exciting adventures and experiences he surely doesn’t want to miss. Here are some activities your kid will surely enjoy during his stay in A Coruna.

Surf Camp

Your kid may wish to spend his holiday surfing. You can visit the sandy beach of Razo where waves are fit for surfing.

Your kid can join the surf camp, situated only 20 meters from the Razo Beach. While at the camp site, the campers will enjoy the beautiful view to the sea. On top of that, the house that accommodates campers is complete with facilities and wonderful amenities to ensure their comfortable stay.

After the surf sessions, the campers can also enjoy bonding through some extra activities like playing racket, beach volleyball, football, ping pong, body tonic and yoga.

Moreover, your kid can enroll to surf courses also available in A Coruna. The surf school offers fundamental to advance surfing teaching and techniques which fits all ages and surf levels, with the aim to help participants learn or improve their surfing prowess. It takes pride in achieving official titles in Galician Surf Federation.

English/ Spanish Language School

If you want your child to learn to begin speaking English in an early age, the city has a lot of good English schools suitable for all ages. They offer you quality short-term or long term language courses. The Spanish schools in La Coruña on the other hand, are the some of the best in the country. They provide basic to intensive courses as well as other activities to make learning enjoyable for you and your kid.

Football Camp

The city takes pride in its leading football team, Real Club Deportivo. The team was founded in 1906 and now playing in La Liga. Consequently, La Coruña offers football camp for kids who enjoys or love to play the sport.

Make your vacation fun not just for you but most importantly, for your kid as well. Engage him into activities that he will not just enjoy but would also develop his talent and skills. La Coruña is truly a placed to be, for you and your family.

Restaurants Coruña Cuisine

Your trip in the city of La Coruña wouldn’t be complete without trying its delectable Spanish cuisine. The following are some restaurant suggestions you may want to pay a visit.

100 Montaditos

It’s a Spanish fast-food getting popularity for the quality of food that it offers the famous of which is the Tapas a variety of Spanish sandwiches. You can easily find this establishment in the newly opened mall El Puerto.

Artabria Restaurant

This restaurant is situated at Fernando Macías street and close to the Riazor beach. It is especially popular for its exceptional traditional and international à la carte. The place is decorated with many beautiful paintings of some Galician artists, making its ambiance very cozy for dining.

Restaurante Domus

For a sample of the local and traditional cuisine, schedule your lunch while visiting this place. The Restaurante Domus offers a wide choice of local dishes which would entice your appetite. It’s a typical travelers choice greatly situated just in front of the House of Men museum and the cost for the good food they offer is very reasonable.

El Coral Restaurant

This venue is also a nice seafood place located just in the centre of the city their specialty includes seabass, turbot, hake, prawns, mussels and scallops and you can either have them cooked with thick, rich, creamy sauce or have them steamed or grilled.

Adega o Bebedeiro

This rustic restaurant is located at Ángel Rebollo street stands out because of its reasonably priced yet very delicious authentic Spanish Cuisine. The place resembles a local farm house. The interior is adorned with stones and attractive pine-made furniture, farming tools and antiques.

Casa Pardo

This place is the first in the city to be awarded with a star in Michelin Red Guide, a classic guide to oldest and best-known hotel and restaurants in Europe. It is a double-decker dining venues situated between the port and the commercial area of the city of A Coruna. This restaurant offers Galician cuisine with a twist. They serve variety of sea products mixed together in one delicious recipe. Their Rape a la Cazuela is also a must try food.

La Penela

This place is the best venue to feast on fresh sea foods and wine. The restaurant occupies a contemporary building on a corner of the lively Plaza de María Pita. The dining area has some tables facing the harbor to get a nice view and some in a glasses-in terrace on the square.

Palavea

If you’re not into the exotic and experimental food you can pay a visit to a popular restaurant in Palavea and savor the familiar taste of pizza cooked in a traditional oven.

Cambalache Pizzerias

This is another good pizza place in Plaza de Maria Pita where you can enjoy a great quality of service and munch on their superb pepperoni.

Coruña Food

The Spanish cuisine is a product of a number of influences that has molded it through the years. The variety of dishes that form part of it has been affected by several factors such as geography, culture and climate not to mention the inputs brought about as a by-product of different conquests throughout history.

The composition of the Spanish cuisine is mainly composed of seafood which is primarily due to the abundance of the sea which actually surrounds the country. In addition to this since Spain was once part of the Roman Empire it has adapted a lot of food recipes from it. The prevalence of meat and bean products were said to be influences of the Empire to the contemporary popular recipes of the Spanish cuisine.

Here’s a list of recipes that are common in almost all the regions of Spain: Paella, Various stews, Potato omelet, migas , chorizos, embutidos, morcillas, jamon Serrano and cheeses. The geographical location of the different regions actually paved the way to different variations in the preparation. The variations are not so common among the well known Spanish desserts and cakes.

Other common recipes are: Arroz con leche, Calamares, Cocido, Chorizo, Chulletillas, Gazapacho, Salmorejo, Percebe, Merluza, Fabada Asturiana, Fideua, Butifarra, Lechazo , Shellfish, Marmita, Peladillas , Pescaito frito,Turron, Polvoron, Tortas de aceite, Olla podrida and Gofio

For the beverage the common Spanish beverage would be Sidra or cider which originates from its vast apple groves what makes the Spanish cider unique is that there is a larger proportion of acidic apples in it rather than the sweet ones as compared to the French’s manner of preparation.

Shopping in Coruna

La Coruña might be an old city but it will not be left behind with the latest technology, fashion and other commercial products found in the market today. Plus, you will be amazed with the wide selection of products found only in La Coruna. It will truly be a different shopping experience for you.

Marineda City Leisure, Shopping and Business Centre

This shopping centre is the largest complex in whole Spain and holds the title as 3rd largest in whole Europe. It is situated few minutes south from downtown the city. “The city” as it is usually called is the home of the most important financial, textile and distribution companies, which makes La Coruña one of the richest areas in Galicia.

It is also located in the most accessible part of the city where it is close to the international airport, bus terminals and one of the ports in Europe. Los Rosales Shopping Centre. This shopping mall is located only 5 minutes away from the heart of the city. It offers wide range of activities for all ages. Its main attractions include its contemporary movie theather, over 60 shops and restaurants.

Cuatro Caminos

Located near the bus station, this huge centre is one easily reached shopping destination. It accommodates around hundred boutiques and shops plus a lot of restaurants. There are more reason to shop in La Coruña because its region, Galacia is actually the home of World’s prominent clothing lines which includes Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka and Pull and Bear. You will never go wrong shopping here because you will surely be in style at great costs.

Moreover, if you want to have great finds that is truly only in La Coruna, Calle Real is the place to be. It offers the best luxury shops for antiques, fashion, jewelry and ceramics. This place is also the venue for some Galician artists to hold their exhibits for their paintings, handmade crafts and the like. Here you’ll surely find some souvenir surely worth keeping.

Weather in La Coruna

La Coruña is blessed with a mild climate that has relatively generous amount of rainfall. The city’s climate is not very diverse throughout the year. Basically, there are two noticeable weather condition namely the warmest average max/ high temperature is 23 °C (73 °F) in August and the coolest average min/ low temperature is 7 °C (45 °F) in January & February.

The best time to make a trip to La Coruña is during the summer months. The warm weather is a good opportunity to make a tour around the city and to enjoy its beautiful beaches. The average temperature during July and August is about 19º C however, the warmest average maximum or high temperatures ranges between 20º C and 25º C. Mornings are usually cloudy and misty, but afternoons normally have sunny and fair weather.

Meanwhile, there are months that travelers are advised to take caution. July and December are months that have the most unpredictable condition. The month with the driest weather is July when on balance 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, sleet, hail or snow falls across 8 days. The month with the wettest weather, on the other hand, is December when on balance 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, sleet, hail or snow falls across 19 days.

Moreover, it is important to learn that La Coruña is one of the European cities where the sun sets later. The city offers you long leisure time under the sun. Also, the hot month of August is the best time to visit the city if you want to experience colorful festivals, fiestas carnivals and processions.

During this month there is some sort of activity every day that you will surely enjoy. If you love to party under the summer heat, visiting La Coruña at this time of the year is the best way to spend your vacation.

With its fine sandy beaches and rich in entertainment nightlife, Benidorm is one of the most sought after places by tourists of all ages. Its cultural activities, festivals, water sports activities and especially its quality of life is what makes Benidorm the perfect place to enjoy the holidays.

Benidorm has three major beaches: Levante, Poniente and Mal Pas, all having a blue flag since 1987, the highest quality standard recognized by the European Union.

Set on the Mediterranean coastal area called Costa Blanca, in the province of Alicante, Benidorm is the center of the bay that bears its name and thanks to this exquisite geographical position is provided with a special microclimate, which makes the winters mild and moderate and summers tempered by sea breezes.

In this way you can enjoy a nature that has been mixed with the emergence of a modern and pleasant city. It is surrounded by mountains: the Tossal de la Cala to the west, the Natural Park of Sierra Helada, on the east part, Sierra Cortina and Puig Campana, to the north, protecting the city from the cold north winds, which could alter its pleasant climate. As a result, Benidorm has 3400 hours of sunshine a year.

History of Benidorm

Benidorm was little more than a tiny village until the Moors (Arabian Muslims) arrived from the Iberian peninsular and North Africa in the 8th and 9th centuries. The Moors were dominant in Benidorm until King Jamie I conquered the area in 1245 and pushed the Moors out for good. Christians soon moved into the area and became the dominant population.

The following years were very tough on the village as the whole area was subjected to attach after attack from pirates and the Turkish in particular. A fort was built in order to repel these regular raids, however, it was destroyed more than once and in the end the locals abandoned it and the population soon dwindled.

The construction of an irrigation system vastly improved the area’s prosperity in 1666. The town became a very popular producer of lemons, oranges and olive oil. Work began in the church of St Jaime in the 18th century and the town prospered with the newly found trade. It was in the early 18th century that a boat was found on the sand of Playa Poniente by some of the locals.

People were wary of the plague at the time, so the town’s residents decided to set the ship alight. A statue of the Virgen del Sufragio was discovered in the burnt out remains of the ship and to the locals amazement, it was completely undamaged. The Virgen became a patron saint of the town and the event is still celebrated to this day.

Benidorm quickly became a huge fishing port with famous fisherman based there for many years. The catch of the time was tuna and the locals had perfected the art of ‘almadraba,’ a complicated maze of fishing nets placed to catch the tuna as they migrated across the Mediterranean. The local agriculture and fishing industry allowed the town to flourish during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

The dawn of the 19th century saw the start of the tourist boom in Benidorm. A railway was built to the town which brought tourists from Alcoy and Madrid. A road also linked Benidorm with Alicante. World War Two and the Civil War temporarily halted the growth of the town, however, that was soon to change in the 1950s.

The fishing industry was in decline and the town’s planners gave the go-ahead for development plans designed to make Benidorm the Spanish capital of tourism. Alicante Airport opened in 1967 and tourists from all over Europe made their way to Benidorm for their annual holidays.

The 1970s saw Benidorm become the biggest tourist resort In Europe. 12 million people visited Benidorm in 1977, which is still a European record!

Benidorm Population

Benidorm is easily the largest tourist destination anywhere on the Mediterranean coast, with 4 million visitors every year. There is a tourist trade all year round with many elderly people staying in the resort for several weeks in the cold winter months.

The exciting and vibrant nightlife attracts younger groups, families and couples. The autumn and winter months see a large influx of older couples from northern Europe. There are 70,000 permanent residents of Benidorm, of which a very high proportion are British.

Places to Visit in Benidorm

Benidorm enjoys fantastic weather all year round and one of the biggest attractions is the nightlife and entertainment found all over the area. However, Benidorm is much more than that and there are plenty of places to visit.

Parque de L’Aiguera

Used widely for concerts and festivals, the Parque de L’Aiguera consists of beautiful sea front promenades, lined with palm trees.

La Isla de Benidorm

This tiny, uninhabited island attracts swimmers and snorkelers to enjoy the clear, warm waters. The island can be reached by a regular glass bottomed boat service.

Castillo Mirador

Standing on the site of the former Benidorm Castle, this is now a picturesque square surrounding by fantastic coastal views and beaches.

Iglesia de San Jaime

The blue tiles used on the domes of St James’ church make it one of the most recognised symbols of Benidorm.

Aqualandia

This water park is a great day out for families and is located just outside the town centre. There are plenty of scary water slides and more sedate attractions for mum and dad. There are also a number of shops, bars and restaurants meaning there is something for everyone.

Terra Mitica

Designed along the lines of the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, this is a huge theme park, packed full of white knuckle roller coasters and attractions for all the family. This is a great way to spend a day as the park also includes more gentle rides, restaurants, bars and shops.

Mundomar Marine Animal Park

Just a short distance from the centre of Benidorm, Mundomar is well known for its dolphins and is a great way to see some of the Mediterranean sea-life close up.

There are also a number of other local attractions including the Terra Natura Safari Park. Hundreds of animals are housed in the park including elephants and python snakes!

Benidorm Monuments

Church of San Jaime – Plaza de San Jaime

It is situated at the top of the old part of the town, on the peak of Canfali hill. It was built between 1740 and 1780 after the discovery of the Virgen of the Suffrage, patron saint of Benidorm. The Church of San Jaime, patron of the city, is of a neoclassical style refined with a blue dome in the Mediterranean style. Inside lies another symbol – the Virgin of the Suffrage, the patron saint of Benidorm. The Virgin has a chapel there, where it can be visited the small sculpture that was found, as the story tells, in a boat adrift at sea.

Punta del Cavall Tower – Natural Park of Sierra Helada

Relic of the past declared good of Cultural Interest, Punta del Cavallo Tower is a watchtower from the 18th century, from where the guards were watching the horizon to avoid the numerous pirate raids. Located on the Punta de les Caletes or Punta del Cavall, the tower is also known as de les Caletes (Tower de les Caletes).

Tossal de la Cala – At the end of Poniente beach

At the end of the Poniente beach, is the Iberian settlement of Tossal de la Cala. Built between the 3rd and 1st centuries BC, is a late Iberian settlement that falls within the activity area of Benidorm as a commercial trading point and a dock used since ancient times. You can see the restored area by going up at the end of the Poniente beach and looking for the intersection of La Cala and from there you can follow the signs leading to the area.

El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali – El Castillo

On the big rock that divides the two beaches stood the fortress that was used to guard against invasions from the Algerian and Barbary pirates, between the 14th and the 16th centuries. After that, the castle was abandoned, currently remaining only a few ruins of the walls, which linger on the lookout rocks, also called by the name of “Balcony of the Mediterranean.”

Maritime Cultural Centre Paseo de Colón – next to the Port of Benidorm

The Maritime Cultural Centre of Benidorm is a permanent exhibition of model ships and other nautical motifs. It is also a memorandum to shipping companies carried out by the Benidorm people in the past.

City Council – Ayuntamiento Plaza SS.MM. los Reyes de España, s/n

The City Council is located at the entrance of L’Aigüera Park and is a very different building with its modern architecture. Its unusual structure has attracted the attention of architects and for that reason receives multiple visits. This bridge – building serves as a door to the green area of L’Aigüera. The construction is elevated and travelers can go under it. The atrium of the building was covered with thick blades in which are written the names and surnames of more than 60.000 citizens.

L’Aigüera Park – Avenida de L’Aigüera, Plaza de SS. MM. los Reyes de España

If you travel to Benidorm, you cannot miss a visit to the park L’Aigüera. It was designed by architect Ricardo Bofill and displays the purest neoclassical style. This park divides the extension of a recently built area. It has two amphitheaters, serving for cultural celebrations throughout the summer and also has an area that is specially prepared for the fairs that are held together with different parties. The long tour of the park serves to value the old valley and below ground are water pipes that channel the runoff water.

Benidorm Cuisine

There is a truly international flavor to the cuisine in Benidorm with so many choices, no one will feel left out. The Calle De La Palma has a number of fine dining restaurants together with many more ‘run of the mill’ restaurants, including several places serving traditional ‘pub grub.’ There are also Spanish, Italian and French restaurants all within a short walk.

As will all Spanish resorts, Spanish cuisine is alive and well and amongst the healthiest in the world. The use of fresh local seafood, locally grown fresh vegetables and the liberal use of olive oil provide a nutritious and very tasty cuisine. There are also Irish, Indian and Chinese restaurants in the town, making Benidorm the Spanish town for international cuisine.

Benidorm Accommodation

Benidorm sometimes suffers from an image problem with people making the assumption that the town only offers a cut-price holiday with no frills. The town isn’t just tower blocks and skyscrapers however; the old town offers a quaint and pretty alternative for accommodation – ideal if peace and quiet, away from the busy bars and parties is required. Whilst some people will revel in the party atmosphere of Benidorm, those looking for a more laid-back and quieter time should look no further than Playa Poniente.

Benidorm offers a huge selection of accommodation for absolutely every budget. While the tall tower block hotels offer the majority shelter, there are also a huge number of apartments and villas in the outlying areas of Benidorm. There are also a number of campsites for those on a budget holiday. The five star Hotel Don Pancho, surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, offers holiday-goers some real luxury.

Benidorm Weather

The weather in Benidorm is pleasant all year round. The Sierra Helada Mountains protect the town from the cool winds and rainfall is sporadic, consisting of mostly showers. The light breezes from the ocean provide a little relief from the heat of the summer months.

Summers in Benidorm are very hot with very little rain. With an average temperature of around 30C, temperatures go well beyond this at times and reach the high 30s regularly. Blue, cloudless skies are the norm with humidity peaking in the summer months.

The mild winter temperatures in Benidorm bring in many visitors during the off-season. It is rare that temperatures drop below 12C and there are usually still cloudless blue skies. Rainfall is highest in January during the winter, although any rainfall is usually only in the form of showers and blue skies follow closely behind. Visitors can expect around 5 hours of sunshine per day in the town.

Getting Around Benidorm

The best way to get around Benidorm is by taxi. If a holiday doesn’t include a bus transfer, there are plenty of taxis waiting at the airport and like most Spanish taxis, they are very competitively priced. There are a number of buses but the affordability of a cab in Benidorm, particularly for groups and families, mean the flexibility and convenience of grabbing a taxi make for a less stressful holiday. There are a number of car hire companies for those that want to venture further afield, all at very affordable prices.

Walking

A good place to visit on foot would be the old town of Benidorm. Also, if it comes to enjoying the beach, a visit to Benidorm is not complete without a stroll along the promenade of Avenue d’Alcoy, Playa de Levante, which is 2 km long and is the site where there are located the majority of large hotels, restaurants and bars of the city. This promenade is full all the time, being the place to see and be seen.

On the other side of the old town is the Parque de Elche beach and Poniente beach, the most secluded beach, ideal for those who want peace in their walks and enjoy the serene spectacle of the sea.

Urban bus – city bus

To reach any part of Benidorm is very easy to catch the bus. The bus service is provided by the company Llorente Bus. The bus network has 17 bus routes and a tram line that connects the entire city. A single ticket is 1.25 €, but you have the possibility of getting a card that is valid for 24 hours and has unlimited rides on all bus lines.

Visitors who use the bus service on a regular basis may find it useful to purchase a ‘Bonobus 20’, instead of paying for each individual journey. The bus transportation in Benidorm is reliable and there are timetables located at each bus stop. Tourist buses are also available.

Taxi

Benidorm has a good taxi service at reasonable prices, although at night the price increases. Every taxi has a counter faced to the public that applies the exact fare in urban transportation. There are taxi stops throughout Benidorm and taxis are easy to spot because they are white with a blue stripe.

Train

The train service runs between Alicante, Benidorm, Altea, Denia and many other stations. The trains are in the Benidorm Train Station and the journey between Benidorm and Alicante takes about an hour. This is a nice way to travel and discover new places of interest in the area, while enjoying panoramic views of the coast.

A great day out can be enjoyed on the tourist train “Lemon Express” which travels from Benidorm along the coast of the Costa Blanca all the way to Gata de Gorgos, visiting natural places that would not otherwise be reached. On arrival at Gata de Gordos, visitors can enjoy a visit to a guitar factory. On the return trip back to Benidorm, passengers are invited to a glass of wine. These trips are very popular and advance reservations are recommended.

The “Trensnochador” travels the coast but only on summer nights. The FGV “Trenet de la Marina” travels along the coast, from Altea to Alicante, with its attractive route, there are many transport options to move around comfortably and the frequency of trips is high.

Boats

The city has a number of boat trips leaving from the port to nearby destinations along the coast, including the island of Benidorm.

Airplanes and the airports

Alicante International Airport (ALC) is the nearest airport to Benidorm, about 10 km from the city of Alicante and 60 km from Benidorm. The airport offers a wide variety of services including ATMs, exchange office, post office, duty free shops, food and drinks establishments, newsagents, a pharmacy and emergency services.

There is a wide range of car hire companies at Alicante airport including Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Europe Car and Record Rent a Car. The taxis are located outside the arrivals hall. Bus transportation is also available at the airport, the buses departing from in front of the arrivals terminal and, also, there is a transport service to Benidorm from Alicante’s bus station.

The largest and liveliest city in the Basque Country is Bilbao, which is situated on Spain’s northern coast. This is one of the most exciting cities in Spain because of the numerous structures and historic sites, especially the Guggenheim Museum. The city of Bilbao is renowned for its stunning scenery, abundance of eateries and shops, exciting nightlife, and numerous sightseeing opportunities.

In Bilbao, there are many things to do. The Plaza Funicular, which is one of the attractions worth seeing, is accessible by taking the Funicular Railway up to Mount Artxanda. As you ascend above the city, the train, driven by a pulley system, soars up the steep hillside, revealing breathtaking views. It costs 85 cents one way and runs every 15 minutes.

From the recreation area at the top, you can see the entirety of Bilbao in breath-taking detail.There are many restaurants in the area where you can unwind and eat regional Basque food. Return through the lush hillside, either to the Abando neighborhood or Parque Extberri with its enormous chimneystack.

Additionally, visitors can use the elevator in Casco Viejo, which is located behind San Nicholas Church on Esperanza Street close to the sports center. Once you get to the top, proceed down the hallway and turn left into Park Extberri, where you can enjoy the view and the surrounding vegetation.

The Basilica de Begona, which has a lovely courtyard to sit in and unwind in under the shade of trees, is another location here worth a visit. You will arrive at the Plaza Unamundo in the Casco if you forgo the elevator and descend the stairs.

The Hanging Bridge, which connects Portugalete and Gexto, is another popular tourist attraction. The bridge is accessible by train from Aband or San Mames to Portugalete. A small ferry for cars and people hangs from this massive structure via cables. You board and are lifted above the river as the cables slide along to the other side. It is open every day of the year, twenty-four hours a day.

History of Bilbao

The growth of Bilbao started in 1315 when King Alfonso included the town along the Camino de Santiago path. Bilbao was able to vastly improve its economic output and developed into a major trading port, trading heavily with northern Europe and the rest of the Mediterranean countries.

More and more shipyards were built in the following years and the town grew in both trading terms and cultural terms with the arrival of pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

During the 1400s, the town became a city and a network of new roads and the famous Cathedral de Santiago were built. Trading with the entire world opened up over the following two centuries.

Bilbao has an unfortunate military past over the years. Its strategic importance as a commercial and naval port made the city a prime target in the French occupation, the War of Independence, and the Spanish Civil War of 1936. Any civil or international conflicts always affected Bilbao significantly.

It was in the 19th century that industrial expansion in the city spiraled out of control and the whole area became choked with pollution. Bilbao was known as a city of industrial ugliness, despite its cultural past. Thankfully, Bilbao has long since shed this industrial image and is once again considered a cultural city, particularly for its artistic presence.

Bilbao Population

Bilbao lies within the autonomous community of the Basque Country, in the far north of Spain and has a population of around 360,000. Bilbao is very much an international city with around 10% of the population being foreigners, only a third of those living in Bilbao were actually born there.

127 different nationalities are represented in Bilbao with large Bolivian and Columbian communities and many Chinese, Moroccan and Romanians living in the city as well.

Bilbao Attractions

Bilbao is bursting with places to visit and see. The city’s cultural and artistic heritage is evident in both the architecture and the many museums. Here are just a few of the places to visit.

Gran Via

This is the city’s main thoroughfare as well as a very important shopping and business area. The start of this beautiful promenade is marked by a statue of Don Diego Lopez de Haro, who founded the city. This is a great place for a stroll, to browse the stores or grab a quick bite to eat.

Plaza de Miguel de Unamuno

The plaza is name after the prominent Bilbao writer and philosopher, Unamuno. His statue sits atop a large column and the square in which it stands is a popular venue for concerts and festivals.

Plaza Nueva

This is the city’s main meeting area and has a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, particularly in the evenings. There is a wide selection of bars, restaurants and cafes and the plaza is the venue for the annual Mercado Rural de Santo Tomas, a traditional market opened every December.

Casco Viejo

This is the place to be for nightclubs, bars and a vibrant nightlife. Situated on the banks of the River Nervion, Casco Viejo is sometimes referred to as the old quarter.

Catedral de Santiago

Built during the 16th century, this is truly the very epicentre of the city of Bilbao. It is situated within the narrow streets of Casco Viejo and surrounded by the shops and bars that make the area such a clash of the ages. From the cathedral, the original seven streets of Bilbao stretch down to the river.

Guggenheim Museum

Architect, Frank Gehry designed this amazing looking structure in a free-form sculptural style that is the talk of architects all over the world. It was funded and constructed by the Basque government in collaboration with the Solomon R. Guggenheim foundation and is visited by thousands of people from all over the world every year. The museum is the home to several modern artists including Picasso, Cezanne and Kandinsky. This is truly a world symbol on a par with the Sydney Opera House.

Bilbao Cuisine

One of the most famous Basque dining customs can be enjoyed all over Bilbao. The passion for food in the Basque Country is amongst the most vociferous anywhere in Spain and this is evident in the local’s love of pinxtos. Very much like tapas, pinxtos is a very small appetizer like food.

It is not uncommon to see the locals bar hop and try a traditional pinxto in every bar. The ritual of ‘tapeo’ is similar to the British ritual of a bar-crawl only instead of beer, it’s tapas or pinxtos

The cuisine of Bilbao and the wider Basque country is like all of Spain. The abundance of freshly caught local fish, the very best fresh vegetables and a love for olive oil make the cuisine amongst the tastiest and healthiest in the world. Cod is particularly popular in the area, locally called bacalao.

Cooked in a Biscayan style or ‘pil-pil’ this is as authentic a Basque dish as can be found anywhere. The fantastic restaurants of Amboto, Zortziko and Urrejola offer authentic Basque style cooking in a fantastic atmosphere. A must-see is the annual pinxto contest held every year between the bars and restaurants of Bilbao.

Accommodation in Bilbao

As in most areas of Spain, Bilbao has a selection of accommodation that will satisfy any budget. The Lopez de Haro hotel is at the very top end, offering five star surroundings, service and food. There are also a number of four star hotels to choose from including the Carlton which is the original Basque government building.

Albert Einstein and King Alfonso XIII have stayed at the Carlton giving it a very historical feeling. Other four star hotels include the Hotel Ercilla and the Abando.

For those on a budget, there are other options including the three star Barcelon Nervion, the Duesto and the Barcelo Avienda. All of these hotels are in the city and only a few minutes’ walk from most of Bilbao’s attractions. Budget travelers will find a selection of hostels and low cost accommodation in the Casco Viejo area, which is a great place to stay to soak up the history of this great old city.

Bilbao Weather

Bilbao is one of the more temperate climates of Spain, offering a typical maritime climate which is consistent all year round. Situated on the north Atlantic coast, it is a city which rarely experiences extremes of temperature.

The winter months are generally cool while the summer months are rarely uncomfortable and the influence of the ocean having a cooling effect, make it a great destination for sunbathing.

The spring months in Bilbao are very pleasant with average temperatures of 14C in February and 16C in March. There are plenty of cloud free, sunny days in spring although it is the time of year where significant rain is most likely.

In April and May, average temperatures quickly rise to around 22C with the summer months of July and August averaging out at around the 30C mark. It can get humid at this time of year but the refreshing breeze from the mountains cools things down slightly.

A great time to visit Bilbao is the autumn as temperatures tend to hover around the 20C mark with lots of sunshine and clear skies. Rain is usually in the form of quick, sharp showers in the autumn months, but these showers are usually quick to clear.

Winter temperatures usually stick around 12C with the odd snow shower is not unheard of.

Transport in Bilbao

The relatively new Metro system in Bilbao is efficient, clean and very reliable. Metro fares can be purchased on a one way basis but there are also Creditrans which are tickets for multiple journeys and start from only €5. There is also a light rail service, a tram system and a bus service that stretches to every part of the city.

The Bilbao public transport system is as good as anywhere in Spain or the rest of Europe. There are also taxis available to hail down in all of the city’s busy thoroughfares.