A country full of history,
fine food and culture
Spain is an irresistible destination where history is interwoven with cultural diversity, fabulous landscapes and mouth-watering cuisine.
Some must-see places in Spain
to add to your list
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Madrid, the city of picturesque neighbourhoodsExploring Madrid on foot is the ideal way to soak up the city´s vibrant and exciting atmosphere.
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A getaway for two in BarcelonaThis city offers a variety of historical experiences for all tastes.
Discover a wonderful and diverse destination
Spain is a country of magnificent landscapes, delicious food and diverse culture. Dive into the sea at its many beaches, explore the green mountains and experience the life of the big cities.
In Andalusia, discover the history of the Alhambra, the passion of flamenco and the delicious food. Relax in the crystal-clear waters of the Canary and Balearic Islands. In Madrid and Barcelona, wander through the historic streets, visit the museums featuring some of the best art collections in the world and savour the traditional dishes. Each region of Spain offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Where to stay in Spain
Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula, in southwestern Europe, bordering Portugal to the west and France to the northeast, bathed by the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It is one of the most diverse destinations in Europe: the cultural life of Madrid, the architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona, the Mediterranean coast (Costa Brava, Costa del Sol) and islands such as the Canary and Balearic Islands. It is recognized for its gastronomy (tapas, paella, Iberian ham), flamenco and a heritage that intertwines Moorish and Christian influences (Alhambra, Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba). Pestana is located in Madrid and Barcelona.
The Pestana Group operates three hotels in central locations in Spain. In Madrid: the Pestana CR7 Gran Vía, a lifestyle hotel in a 1920s building next to Gran Vía, with a swimming pool and panoramic rooftop bar; and the Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid (Pestana Collection), overlooking Plaza Mayor. In Barcelona: the Pestana Arena Barcelona, in the Sants-Montjuïc district, next to Plaça d'Espanya and the Fira de Barcelona, a short walk from Barcelona-Sants.
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the best times: mild weather, fewer crowds, and temperatures often between 17 and 24 °C with plenty of sunshine. Summer is hot and dry, especially inland (Madrid can reach high temperatures), although the coast and islands remain pleasant. For the cities where Pestana hotels are located, May and September are especially recommended in Madrid and Barcelona.
Spain has excellent air connections. The two main gateways are Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), the largest in the country, and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). From these, you can reach the city center by metro, commuter train, or taxi, with Pestana hotels just a few minutes away. Between Madrid and Barcelona, the fastest option is the AVE high-speed train, which connects Atocha to Barcelona-Sants in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with frequent departures.
In Madrid (base of the Pestana CR7 Gran Vía and Pestana Plaza Mayor): the triangle of museums (Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen), the Royal Palace, the Puerta del Sol and the Plaza Mayor. In Barcelona (next to the Pestana Arena): the Sagrada Família and Gaudí's works (Park Güell, Casa Batlló), the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla. Outside the major cities, the Alhambra of Granada, with its Moorish heritage, and the Mediterranean beaches (Costa Brava and Costa del Sol), accessible by high-speed rail.
Spain has one of the best transport networks in Europe. The backbone is the AVE high-speed train (Renfe), which efficiently connects Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia and Malaga; the Madrid-Barcelona line covers the route in about 2h30. There are also domestic flights for longer distances or islands. In cities, the metro and buses are extensive (in Barcelona the Pestana Arena is close to several stations). For rural areas and the coast, car rental is the most flexible option.