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Sources: UCLA Men's Basketball Planning Foreign Tour in Spain

• Author: Sam Connon

In this story:

The Bruins are headed back overseas.

UCLA men's basketball is planning to travel to Spain for an offseason trip, a team spokesperson confirmed to All Bruins on Wednesday. While nothing is set in stone just yet, the projected dates for the trip are from Aug. 20 to 30. 

The trip would be the program's first time playing outside of the country since they went to China at the start of the 2017-2018 regular season.

Whispers of a foreign tour in Europe first surfaced when 247Sports' Bruin Report Online alluded to UCLA playing games in Spain or France when breaking down shooting guard Ilane Fibleuil's commitment on April 14.

According to Bruin Report Online , the tour will consist of three exhibition games with stops in Madrid, Toledo, Valencia and Barcelona. Exact opponents and arenas are still to be determined.

There are 78 teams listed in Jeff Goodman's comprehensive breakdown of foreign tours for Stadium , with Illinois, Pittsburgh, Oklahoma State, Providence and others also making the rounds in Spain. UConn, Dayton, Iowa, Washington and Boston College, meanwhile, will stop in multiple countries, including Spain.

Foreign tours are typically used as a marketing tool and alumni event for schools, and programs are only permitted to go on one every four years. UCLA's last foreign tour was to Australia in 2016, when the team was led by Lonzo Ball, Aaron Holiday, Thomas Welsh, TJ Leaf and Bryce Alford.

This time around, the Bruins' trip to Spain comes at a time where their international recruiting is booming.

UCLA added Ivo Simovic to its staff last June, giving the program an assistant coach with experience in Serbia, Spain and elsewhere. Simovic helped the team sign Italian swingman Abramo Canka in August, and although Turkish big man Ege Demir was ultimately unable to enroll, he reportedly committed to UCLA in September.

Simovic also ran point in the recruitment of five-star small forward Andrej Stojakovic before he committed to Stanford in November, and his Serbian roots played a key role in the Bruins adding Utah transfer Lazar Stefanovic in April. Less than a week later, UCLA picked up a commitment from French shooting guard Ilane Fibleuil.

Sources have told All Bruins that UCLA's staff is hoping to add multiple other international prospects in the coming weeks, including Spanish 7-footer Aday Mara.

Simovic – and potentially Mara – will return to Spain this summer, giving a new-look UCLA squad an extra chance to mesh before the season gets going.

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Stefanovic Talks About Returning to Europe, Travels in Spain

August 28, 2023 | Men's Basketball

Spain | Studying Abroad

BY CELIA CODY-CARRESE

Living in another country is a wonderful experience full of new friends, new experiences, and travelling to new places. It’s also challenging, and it requires you to adapt to new circumstances. Moving to a Spanish-speaking country to study the language is a lot different than taking a class at a UC. From an academic and immersive perspective, here’s what I’ve learned.

Attending university in Córdoba has been very different from my regular college life at UCLA. At UCLA I go to a large university where everything is located on one campus. The University of Córdoba has different buildings throughout Córdoba, which each serve different groups of students. I attend classes at University of Córdoba Idiomas (Languages), or UCO Idiomas. One of the biggest differences between UCLA and UCO is that classes are much smaller in Spain. My biggest class here, Spanish History, has all 27 students in my program; but my Spanish Language and Andalucían History classes both have 15 students or less. At UCLA, my smallest classes (not including discussions) have about 60 people. Having smaller classes is a nice change, and I really feel like I know my professors- they are all very kind and funny, and attentive to the needs of students.

(An average class at UCLA vs. UCO Idiomas)

Teachers here generally teach in a different style- only one of my professors uses a prepared Powerpoint for his lectures. Another professor uses maps and images sporadically, but he mainly just lectures and writes on the whiteboard. Additionally, all of my classes here are taught in Spanish! The Andalucían History class, which is an elective, was originally taught in English, but we opted to have our professor speak Spanish. It has been a good way to practice and fully immerse while at school, and he is able to get his lessons across easier by speaking in his native language. At first I was worried about having History classes in Spanish- I figured I would not be able to understand enough, and would be ill prepared for the test. However, understanding another language is one of the first steps of language acquisition (it comes easier than speaking), so within a few weeks I was understanding most of what my professors were saying!

My schedule here is also a big shift from university life. In a normal quarter I also take three classes, which are spread out throughout the week- so I might have two classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and one on Mondays and Wednesdays. I often have days with big gaps in between classes, and my days can change a lot depending on my academic and extracurricular schedule. Here from from 9:30 to 11:30 I have Spanish class Monday through Thursday, and from 12 to 2 I have Andalucían History on Mondays and Tuesdays, and Spanish History on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Every day we have a half hour break between classes, which is much needed time to recharge with a snack! On Fridays, we go on trips to historical and cultural sites in Córdoba and around Andalucía. Having class at the same time everyday is a big adjustment- I haven’t had a schedule like that since high school! While part of me misses the flexibility of having days off or big gaps between classes, I also really like the routine of waking up at the same time everyday.

There’s a cafeteria right across the street from UCO Idiomas, and I often have café con leche y tostada con tomate (a latte and toast with a tomato spread) for a snack during our break.

Another big difference here is the way grades and classes are structured. There is less work consistently given out, and more of your grade depends on testing. I have daily homework for my Spanish class, which usually takes me about 30 minutes to an hour, and most days I study more Spanish on my own. For the history classes I don’t have homework, and pretty much my entire grade depends on testing. My program is divided into Spring Semester students (who are in Córdoba until May) and Winter Quarter students (that’s me) who are here until March, and then returning to our schools for Spring Quarter. When we take our finals, the Semester students are also testing, but for them it is their midterms. Besides my Spanish class which also incorporates written assignments, my grades are based solely on testing and participation. It’s a little nerve-wracking, having your grade centered on one test, but I’m not too worried about the tests. One advantage of being a Quarter student in my program is that all your tests (except for Spanish, of course) are in English!

Your brain, on language acquisition.

Studying abroad, especially when you are learning a new language, is a different type of learning because you are constantly absorbing new information and expanding your knowledge. You don’t just go to class, learn something, study it, and then go about your life. What you learn in class is reinforced by your life outside of university, and vice a versa. In my Spanish class we are encouraged to talk about what we did over the weekend and bring in new phrases we learned. In history we learn about Al-Andalus, the name of Andalucía when Muslims ruled and the European Caliphate was centered in Córdoba. We learn about the Catholic monarchy of Fernando and Isabel and how they expelled the Muslims from Spain. Walking through Córdoba or Granada, architectural examples of Muslim and Christian culture can be found everywhere. And most importantly, I am surrounded by Spanish all the time- in my homestay, in class, in the street. This makes understanding and practicing Spanish much more accessible, and it becomes part of your life faster than it would without immersion.

It takes years and years of practice to become fluent in another language. By living in another country for a few months, you will improve and learn a lot- but you won’t become fluent. However, by immersing yourself and making an effort to practice every day, you are bound to improve, and lay the groundwork for communicating in another language!

Celia Cody-Carrese studied abroad in Cordoba, Spain, in Winter 2017:  http://eap.ucop.edu/OurPrograms/spain/Pages/exploring_andalucia.aspx

2023 Travel Study Blog

The Spanish & Portuguese Travel Study Scholarship provides recipients $500 towards their participation in our immersive cultural and educational abroad experiences as part of our Travel Study Programs. Each Travel Study Scholarship recipient is required to create a blog that highlights their experience abroad.

The 2023 Spanish & Portuguese Travel Study Scholarship recipients are:

Leia broughton.

Leia Broughton Travel Study Program: Spanish: Granada, Madrid, Barcelona (Session 1: June Start, Summer 2023) Major: Linguistics and English Minor: Theater

Sofia Irvin

“This was my first trip abroad and the exposure to the Spanish language and culture was invaluable to me. Highlights of the program include visiting the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, taking a tour of the Museo Nacional Del Prado in Madrid, learning the deep history of the Alhambra, and how to flamingo dance in Granada. Most importantly, I had the fortunate chance to develop my Spanish speaking and writing skills. These skills have already helped me in conversation both in Spain and at home in Los Angeles.”

Full Blog Post

Lynette Salas

Lynette Salas Program Name: UCLA Travel Study — Barcelona, Madrid, Granada Session 2 Summer 2023 Major(s)/Minor(s): Sociology and Spanish majors, Education Studies minor

“Studying abroad seems like something that’s essential in the college experience. I knew it was something I wanted to do before I left UCLA. I was so glad to have chosen the UCLA Travel Study Program in Barcelona, Madrid and Granada. Classes took place in the morning until the early afternoon, after which we had scheduled excursions and tours and had free time to enjoy the city and have dinner. A five week trip, many stops to pressed coin machines and nine cities later, there aren’t enough words to describe the memories I made and the growth I experienced studying abroad in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.”

UCLA prepares for Spain trip with young, overhauled roster

In preparation mode for his basketball team’s upcoming trip to Spain, UCLA head coach Mick Cronin greeted the local media Thursday by uttering “hola” to open his first press conference since the Bruins began summer practices.

“I’m sorry,” Cronin said. “Mornings, I usually speak other languages.”

It was also a wink and a nod to the turnover on a roster flushed with international talent from Slovenia and France, and soon Spain and Turkey.

The familiar faces from Cronin’s first UCLA team were nowhere to be found on the practice floor at the Mo Ostin Basketball Center.

Instead of Tyger Campbell running the show and Jaime Jaquez Jr. flashing the footwork that helped make him a first-round NBA draft pick this June, it was two of the younger players on last season’s roster now in the role of veterans — even if point guard Dylan Andrews and forward Adem Bona are just sophomores.

“What they need to do and what’s reality could be two different things,” Cronin said of the duo. “You know, Adem’s going to be a first-round draft pick, he’s just got to stay healthy.

“With Dylan, we’ll see how he reacts to the minutes when that time comes, so this trip will be good for him to be out on the floor for extended periods of time. He didn’t really have that opportunity last year, so he’s going to get the opportunity to earn those extended minutes and we’ll see how he reacts to it because practice and games are two very different things.”

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These 5 road trips will show you the best of Spain

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

These road trips cover the best of Spain, from the coast of Catalonia to the mountains of Andalucía © Artur Debat / Getty Images

Explore  Spain ’s world-famous natural scenery and cultural heritage – and savor its acclaimed cuisine at every pit stop – with a road trip across this beautiful country.

Wherever you head, you can count on passing medieval castles and ancient cities, charming seaside towns, towering mountain ranges and coastlines that stretch for miles. In between the memorable monuments, Spain’s  pueblos (villages) offer the chance to recharge with traditional tapas (small plates) among warm locals.

Get into gear with these five outstanding driving routes, which will show you some of the best parts of Spain.

1. Costa Brava road trip

Best road trip for Catalonian history and cuisine – and all things Dalí Barcelona – Cadaqués; approx 246km (153 miles); allow 3-4 days

Spain is blessed with over 3000 miles of coastline, and one of its most spectacular stretches is the Costa Brava , along the Mediterranean on the northeastern coast of  Catalonia . This drive will reward you with long, sunlit beaches; historic cities; and picturesque fishing villages that inspired the region’s most famous artist, Salvador Dalí. 

Starting in  Barcelona , take the GI-682 road from Tossa de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guíxols, where there are designated viewpoints to stop and gawk at the spectacular scenery. Detour from the coastline for a pit stop at the ancient city of Girona  to take in its  iconic cathedral  (which has one of the widest Gothic naves in the world), and the archaeological treasures at Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths).

Art lovers will not want to miss the famous “Dalinian Triangle”  (formed by the municipalities of Figueres, Portlligat and Púbol), where you can immerse yourself in Salvador Dalí's outlandish world by visiting his former residences, now open to the public.

The road trip ends at the quaint seaside town of Cadaqués on the bay of the Cap de Creus peninsula. This was a favorite summer playground of iconic artists and writers, including Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Daphne Guinness, Man Ray, Frederico Garcia Lorca, Melina Mercouri and Marcel Duchamp, among many others. And now you.

Planning tip:  Girona’s  El Celler de Can Roca has been named the world’s best restaurant numerous times over the years, and it takes bookings up to a year ahead. So what are you waiting for? Get those reservations in now. 

2. Andalucía road trip

Best road trip for getting close to Spain’s Moorish past Malaga– Seville; 471km (293 miles), allow 5 days

Southern  Andalucía  is the only European region that has both Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, linked by the Strait of Gibraltar. A drive through this fascinating region takes you along the justly popular  Costa del Sol .

Start in the sunlit coastal city of Málaga , and enjoy stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Head inland for the enchanting cities of Granada and Córdoba , where the imprint of the Muslim dynasties that ruled Spain until the 15th century is palpable.

No visit to Granada is complete without stopping at the  Alhambra , the ancient palace and citadel of the Nasrid Dynasty, which gloriously blends Moorish and Christian decorative styles. The same entrance ticket will get you into the nearby Palacio de Generalife , a summer palace for the Nasrid sultans. 

Córdoba is a captivating city that is home to the La Mezquita–Catedral de Córdoba (the Córdoba Mosque), the city’s shining jewel which, alongside the Alhambra, represents the apex of Islamic architecture in Spain. 

A 90-minute drive from Córdoba, the Andalusian capital of Seville offers an idiosyncratic and dreamy mix of horse-drawn carriages, citrus trees, a colossal Gothic cathedral , Mudéjar (Moorish) architecture and flamenco tablaos (flamenco performances). 

3. Northern Spain road trip

Best road trip for greenery and cuisine along Spain’s Atlantic coast San Sebastián – Santiago de Compostela; 750km (466 miles), allow 6–7 days

Because the north of Spain sees more rainfall than the rest of the country, its landscapes tend toward the verdant; on the road, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of lush hillsides, snow-capped mountain peaks and Atlantic Ocean views. This itinerary will take you across four autonomous communities of Spain, departing from the Basque Country , crossing Cantabria  and  Asturias , then ending in Galicia . 

A great jumping-off point is the gastronomic coastal city of San Sebastián, which has the greatest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in Europe. It would be ideal to spend a day or two here to explore the city’s Parte Vieja (Old Quarter), and savor the endless array of pintxos (appetizers) that tempt you at every turn. 

Not too far away is the Basque islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe , which has become world-famous as the filming location for Dragonstone in  Game of Thrones . This breathtaking rocky precipice juts out into the Bay of Biscay, and is connected to the mainland by a long, winding stone staircase. Crowning the islet is a small chapel with a bell at its facade: tradition calls for visitors to ring the bell three times and make a wish.

Stretch out your legs on the spectacular golden sand beach, Playa del Sardinero , in the port town and Cantabrian capital of Santander . The whimsical oceanfront Magdalena Palace  was built in the early 1900s as a summer residence for the royal family. 

You’ll enjoy dramatic views of the Picos de Europa mountain range as you drive onward into Asturias. Stop by Oviedo  to explore the charming old town and try the traditional fabada asturiana bean stew. Finally, join pilgrims from all over the world at  Santiago de Compostela , the final destination of the thousand-year-old pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St James), where you could visit the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela , the reputed final resting place of St James the Apostle. Luckily, you won’t be tired from walking there.

Planning tip:  Most car-rental firms will gladly throw in a silla infantil (car seat) for an additional cost. You should always book these in advance, especially around holidays like Christmas and Holy Week (when finding a car to rent itself can be a challenge).

4. Castilla y León road trip

Best road trip for towns filled with medieval castles, churches and charm Madrid – Salamanca; 265km (165 miles), allow 2 days

This itinerary through central Spain takes you across plateaus with the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range and into some of Spain’s most outstanding historic towns in the Castilla y León region. Look forward to walled medieval cities, fortified castles, Romanesque architecture, Gothic cathedrals and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Just over an hour away from Madrid , your starting point, lies  Segovia , famous for its magnificent Roman aqueduct , Gothic cathedral and the 12th-century Alcázar of Segovia castle.

The next stop is the medieval-era walled town of Ávila , “the town of stones and saints,” known for having the most Gothic and Romanesque churches in Spain (and that’s saying something!). Spend a day walking its cobblestone streets and visiting the El Salvador Cathedral , San Vicente Basilica and the Convent/Museum of St Teresa , perhaps the town’s most famous native.

End your road trip in the charming university town of Salamanca , known as “La Cuidad de Oro” (Golden City), since its honey-colored sandstone walls glow with infinite golden hues in the late afternoon light.

Local tip:  Castilla y León is hot and sunny in summer – but winters can get cold. The climate is relatively dry, even in the cold months, which means it doesn’t snow very often – but temperatures can drop below zero overnight. Pack for proper winter weather.

5. Ibiza road trip

Best road trip for coves and beaches Ibiza Town – Cala d’Hort; 35km (22 miles), allow 1–2 days

Renting a car in Ibiza is the best way to explore the island’s stunning calas  (or coves): having your own wheels will save you both time and expensive taxi fares. While the island has a reputation as a 24/7 party destination, its timeless allure lies more in its natural attractions: think rugged cliffs, turquoise-colored waters and ancient archaeological sites.

Starting from Ibiza Town , drive over to Ses Salines beach at the southern tip of the island (only about 10 minutes away) to get a taste of glamorous beach life. It’s not uncommon to spot celebrities soaking up the sun or enjoying cocktails in one of the many beachside bars and restaurants. 

A fascinating contrast awaits at Sa Caleta  (Es Bol Nou), a more secluded beach tucked between rugged red cliffs. Take some time to hike up the ancient Phoenician civilization World Heritage site of Sa Caleta ruins, and pause for some fresh seafood at the cala ’s restaurant, with its shady Mediterranean garden bar. 

End your drive at Ibiza’s emblematic Cala d’Hort , featuring the mythical Es Vedrà island, which rises 382m (1253ft) from the glittering Mediterranean waters. Everything from UFOs to the Virgin Mary have reportedly been seen on this island, giving it its legendary status. While it’s a spellbinding sight at any time of the day, viewing it for the first time at sunset is an almost transcendent experience.

Local tip:  The Balearic Islands, including Ibiza, are pushing forward long-term projects to transform tourism into a more sustainable and less seasonal industry . Check out Illes Sostenible and Ibiza Sostenible  for information on ways you can get involved, from “ plogging ” to restoring corals.

This article was first published Sep 13, 2021 and updated Mar 13, 2024.

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This Sunny Spanish City Is Known for Amazing Tapas and a ‘Magical Vibe’ — and It Won’t Break the Bank

Here's everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Granada, Spain.

• Best Hotels & Resorts
• Best Things to Do

Best Restaurants

Best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Granada is about as captivating a city as they come. The city, tucked at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Spain's Andalusia region, is filled with more historic charm than perhaps one place deserves. Here, travelers can walk through winding cobblestone streets, drink in views of Moorish architecture, and stroll through buildings dating back to the 14th century, all within the span of an afternoon.

"Granada is a gem filled with history, culture, and stunning scenery," Tim Hentschel, the CEO and co-founder of HotelPlanner , shares with Travel + Leisure . "Granada is also known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its tapas culture. You can enjoy various mouthwatering dishes while exploring the city's vibrant culinary scene. And what is especially remarkable is that Granada doesn't break the bank like other big Spanish cities, but it still oozes authentic charm. The locals are friendly, the vibe is lively, and your wallet stays happy without missing out on that classic Spanish charm." 

And, as Alicia Benito, a Spanish language and culture specialist at Promova , notes, it's a place where you really can kick up your heels, too. 

"It's like the perfect mix of history, amazing sights, and a very lively culture. Also, the people there really know how to live," Benito says. "There are cool street markets everywhere, cozy tapas bars on every corner, and passionate flamenco shows in Sacromonte. It's just got this magical vibe that grabs you and doesn't let go."

Not only that, but Granada is also a destination that experiences some 3,000 hours of sunshine a year , practically ensuring at least one beautiful day while you're there. Here's how to plan the perfect trip to Granada. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

Stay in a former monastery when you book a room at Parador de Granada. 

Explore the stunning Alhambra. 

See a zambra flamenco show in Sacromonte. 

Go for a tapas and wine crawl around the city’s best bars and restaurants.

Visit in the spring or fall for beautiful weather and fewer crowds. 

Best Hotels & Resorts

Hospes palacio de los patos.

Hospes Palacio de los Patos is the perfect representation of Granada. It's a 19th-century palace turned modern retreat located in the heart of the city. Here, guests can unwind in stately rooms with soaring ceilings and royal-ready beds, relax in the Bodyna Spa, or dine on local dishes — including plenty of tapas — on its outdoor terrace. 

Parador de Granada

Courtesy of Parador de Granada

Sleep amid history at Parador de Granada , located within Alhambra's grounds. The former monastery has been transformed into an inviting escape with rooms overlooking the Generalife's lush gardens. It's a modest accommodation, but one that is ideal for those looking for a quieter stay and access to utmost tranquility. 

Hotel Casa 1800 Granada

Courtesy of Hotel Casa 1800

Pining for even more history? Then book a stay at Hotel Casa 1800 Granada . As the name implies, the hotel was once a private home, built in the late 16th century, and it maintains much of its charm — including the original facade. Every room here is unique, but all offer historical touches, including original balconies, shutters, and frescos. 

Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol

Get a room with a view at Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol . The boutique hotel's privileged position atop a hill provides spectacular views from every window of both the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Spring for a room with a terrace for an unforgettable stay. 

Best Things to Do 

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Explore the Alhambra.

We're not sure it's possible to visit Granada without visiting the Alhambra , often regarded as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and art. "The number one must-see is definitely the Alhambra palace," Benito shares. "It's like the crown jewel of Granada, with its amazing Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens. You can spend hours exploring the different palaces and courtyards, and the views from up there are incredible."

Visit the Granada Cathedral.

The Granada Cathedral , also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a stunning Roman Catholic church dating back to the 16th century. Outside, travelers can spend hours looking at its imposing arches and pillars, while inside, they'll be in awe of the spectacular dome and frescos lining the walls. Guests can come to worship or go on a cultural tour to learn more about its fascinating history. 

See a flamenco show in Sacromonte.

Immerse yourself in local culture with a flamenco show in Granada's historic Sacromonte district . Here, you'll find a unique form of flamenco known as zambra, passed down for generations. It's emotional and rhythmic, and it will leave you fully inspired. 

Check out the Parque de las Ciencias.

Have a day filled with fun and science with a visit to the Parque de las Ciencias . Here, guests can learn about everything from the human body to the outer edges of space all in one afternoon. Don't miss the outdoor astronomy garden, where you can play with all the observation instruments. 

Stroll through the Albaicín.

"If you're into history and culture, don't miss wandering around the Albaicín neighborhood, where you feel like stepping back in time with all these narrow streets and cool Moorish architecture," Benito says. Indeed, the neighborhood is known as Granada's oldest and most traditional neighborhood. The historic Moorish quarter is a melting pot of cultural influences, including Iberians, Greeks, Romans, and Visigoths, who have all passed through these streets, just like you. 

Bjoern Bremer/Getty Images

Bodegas Castañeda

Find a traditional atmosphere matched by a traditional tapas menu at Bodegas Castañeda . Go for one of its famous platters that come with a taste of everything, including its tabla fria , with two croquettes, a Russian salad, tortilla española (a potato omelet), ham, cheese, and chicken. They offer plenty of wines by the glass, but make sure to check out the Wine of the Week menu for something special. 

Bar Los Diamantes

Famed for its fried fish tapas, Bar Los Diamantes is a hit among both locals and tourists alike. Yes, it's crowded, but that's because it's just that good. There are several locations around the city, but no matter which one you visit, you'll be delighted by the fried prawns, calamari, or daily specials.

La Sitarilla

La Sitarilla , a family-run restaurant, is one more spot where you can find plenty of traditional bites. Go ahead, get the pig feet. But also get the meatballs, the fries, or whatever else is offered to you alongside each beer or wine you order. 

According to Benito, the best time to visit Granada "really depends on what you're looking for. But generally speaking, spring and autumn are probably the best bet." That, Benito says, is when the weather is at its best, as it's not too hot nor too cold, and the crowds are at their thinnest, allowing you to explore more and wait in line less. "But honestly, Granada is beautiful year-round, so whenever you go, you're going to have an amazing time," Benito adds. 

Spring also offers travelers the chance to take part in festivals like the Cruces de Mayo , celebrated on the third of May. And in the fall, guests can swing by the Granada Film Festival to check out the latest cinematic talents or visit all September long to honor Virgen de las Angustias , the patron saint of the city.

By plane: The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport , located about 12 miles outside the city. The airport offers mostly domestic flights and a few international connections (most flights connect through Spain's larger cities, Madrid and Barcelona). 

By train: Travelers can also make their way to Granada by train from both Madrid and Barcelona. Madrid to Granada takes about four hours, while the Barcelona to Granada train takes about six. By car: Anyone can get to Granada by car as well, as the city is well-connected to major highways traveling to and from Madrid, Seville , and other coastal cities. 

KavalenkavaVolha/Getty Images

By car: Renting a car in Granada is simple. Several major rental car companies have outposts here, including Sixt, Europcar, and Avis. Having a car will allow you to explore the outer regions of the city and into the mountains, but be warned — parking in the heart of town can be difficult. 

By public transit: Buses are the main form of public transport in Granada. The system covers most of the city, making it simple to hop on and off between neighborhoods. A regular bus ticket runs at about $1.50. See the map and full fare schedule here . 

By taxi: Taxis are also easy to come by throughout Granada. As Love Granada explains, there are two types of fares — daytime rates for weekdays and nighttime rates for late weeknights and holidays. Just like in cities around the world, you can hail a cab on the street by throwing up your hand in the air and by trying to spot any taxi with a green light on its roof (which indicates it's open for a ride).

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The Best Day Trips From Barcelona, According To Rick Steves

W ith an alluring landscape of evergreen mountains, glistening coastlines, and salty Mediterranean air, Spain is the ultimate gateway to adventure in Europe. It's a melting pot of cultural heritage and diverse social atmospheres, with a balanced blend of cities that cater to the outdoor enthusiast, the city dweller, and the laid-back traveler seeking luxury and leisure. Best of all, travelers are relieved from picking favorites and sacrificing cities on a trip to Spain, with nearly all of its regions easily connected by road. As a result, Spain was named the best country in the world for road-tripping, thanks to its scenic highways, high road quality, and safety.

If anyone is qualified to give travel planning advice, it would be Rick Steves, given the author's expertise and activism in European travel. The TV personality shared his recommendations for the best day trips in Spain, with travelers basing their excursions out of Barcelona. While this Catalonian capital and epicenter of Spanish culture is a mecca for tourists, Steves encourages visitors to escape the beaten path and trod on undiscovered ground. According to Steves, hidden gems like Montserrat, Figueres, Cadaqués, and Sitges make a day trip well worth the extra miles. From towering mountains and sea coves to architectural remnants of a past left behind, each of these Spanish destinations contains a plethora of jewels that create a captivating canvas of culture, cuisine, and art.

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Just an hour northwest of Barcelona lies Montserrat, a serene mountaintop destination home to an iconic monastery. This radiant hub of culture and history carries the nickname "the serrated mountain" because of its dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations. Montserrat also bears a storied past and has been marked as a town of religious pilgrims and a holy site. Legend reveals a group of shepherds saw a light radiating from the side of the mountains in 880 A.D. and were divinely led to discover a hidden statue of the Virgin Mary, dedicating the town as a holy mountain. Ultimately, this discovery led to Montserrat's status as a religious symbol in Spanish culture and a sacred place of worship for natives. Today, the town is a colorful canvas of Spanish architecture that adorns many historic monasteries and religious sites, including Santa Maria de Montserrat, Benedictine Abbey, and the Black Madonna. 

The Santa Cova funicular railway is a scenic journey that traverses the valley of Montserrat Mountain and ventures to the same sacred cove where the Black Virgin was first discovered. Nature lovers will find the Sant Jeroni trail, a stunning voyage through the mountains of Montserrat. The Sant Joan funicular railway leads to the base of the mountain where the trailhead begins, guiding hikers to the highest peak in Montserrat. Food and wine jaunts are ubiquitous here, and many wine tours include guided trips to the many monasteries and vineyards that make Montserrat a beautiful destination for a picture-perfect wine vacation .

Located between the eastern Pyrenees mountains and Costa Brava, Figueres sits an hour and 27 minutes from Barcelona. As the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, the city is alive and bursting with artistic pieces that pay homage to the artist's heritage. The Dalí Theater-Museum is the primary beacon for tourists in this city, captivating visitors with the best of the artist's surrealism. It's not just the innovative and somewhat intriguing pieces of art housed inside this storied building that testifies to his artistic strengths. Dalí even helped design the exterior himself, down to the golden pillars and ornate figures atop the museum. The Dalí Theater-Museum is regarded as the largest representation of the surrealist movement in the modern era.

Museums aren't the only place where art exists in Figueres. It's hard to visit this Spanish city without stepping foot on La Rambla, named after the iconic street in Barcelona. This popular boulevard leads to a colorful and lively town square, branching off into a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys that are brought to life with a plethora of vibrant street art murals. Spanish tapas are just as much a part of this city's culture as its artsy terrain. El Motel is a family-owned Michelin-star establishment with an emphasis on both regional Catalonian plates and global flavors. Boasting an upscale flair, this restaurant and wine bar consists of an exquisite menu with unique items like zucchini flowers. However, the assorted cheese trolley is an absolute must!

Cadaqués is a coastal gem nestled in the county of Alt Empordà along the crest of the Mediterranean seashore, just around two hours from Barcelona. This seaport town in Costa Brava is a picturesque patch of paradise blanketed in sparkling beaches, patches of white powdery sand, and hidden coves tucked into the sides of the cliffs. Despite its growing reputation among tourists, there's only one road leading into Cadaqués and another out of it, testifying to its roots as a small port town on the Spanish coastline. 

The Camí de Ronda trail offers some of the best views in Cadaqués. This stretch of trail running through town begins near Dalí's house in Port Lligat and stretches to the Cap de Creus lighthouse. While the entirety of this trail stretches for miles from Blanes to Portbou, hikers in Cadaques can partake in a sweet snippet of this coastal trek. Art enthusiasts are recommended to visit the Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí, the workplace of Dalí that still houses several of his artistic creations, along with personal mementos and custom furnishings. The old fisherman's hut that Dalí converted into a livable abode alongside his wife is one of the most coveted attractions in Cadaqués. While the artist was raised in Figueres, he spent many summers in this eastern coastal town.

Situated 24 miles south of Barcelona, Sitges is a small pocket of Spanish beauty clothed in 17 photogenic beaches. Often referred to as the "Saint-Tropez of Spain," Sitges is known for its swanky nightlife scene and annual horror film festival that attracts a younger, trendy crowd of tourists to its flower-lined streets. Sant Sebastià is where the locals are drawn, while Fragata Beach sits as a prominent family spot with volleyball nets and colorful umbrellas peppering the sand banks.  This underrated coastal city has plenty of things to do. Sitges is surrounded by Garraf National Park, and its beauty spills into the interior of the town with a collection of lush flora whose buds of greenery add a pop of color to white-washed abodes. 

One of the best ways to soak in the culture of Sitges is by strolling its streets until you reach the sun-soaked beaches on the edge of the waterfront. Peruse the sights of Passeig Maritim, easily one of the most aesthetic streets in Sitges. Home to a collection of local cafés and shops, this scenic stroll eventually leads to the breathtaking view of the waterfront. Catalonia is the birthplace of cava, with the majority of this cultural beverage produced in the Penedores region. This patch of wine country lies directly inland from Sitges, making this town a prominent wine-tasting oasis. Cap off a day well spent in Sitges at La Zorra, which has no contenders when ranking the best paella in the town.

Just over an hour from Barcelona in northeastern Spain, Girona is limitless when it comes to fun and quirky hot spots that draw visitors into its city square. The city is home to a flourishing industrial scene that fuels its economy, with everything from milk pasteurization and flour mills to textile production and financial services. However, that's not all this Catalonian city has to offer. Medieval footbridges linking the river banks and condensed cobblestone streets make Girona an extremely pedestrian-friendly destination.  

Girona Cathedral might be one of the top attractions in this city, marked by ancient Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic architectural styles.  Religious artifacts and magnificent artistic remnants fill the interior. These give the cathedral a sacred, harmonious ambiance that shouldn't be missed on your day trip. Tucked amidst the streets of Barri Vell, keep an eye out for Plaça dels Raïms, a site that's easy to miss given the fact that it's the smallest square in Europe. Once the site of a grape market, it now makes for a popular photo op in Girona. 

Should you find yourself in Girona during spring, catch a glimpse of the iconic Temps de Flors festival that brings the city to life in a colorful outburst of flower buds. Neighborhoods, squares, and façades of buildings are adorned with floral installations in a public demonstration that celebrates the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Incredibly, Girona welcomed a record-breaking number of more than 365,00 visitors for the 2023 Temps de Flors. 

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