Spain is famous for sunny beaches, tasty tapas, and wild festivals. But there’s so much more to this country than the usual bucket list spots. Beyond the big landmarks and crowded squares, you’ll find hidden shows, underground rivers, stargazing adventures, and even high-speed kart races.
If you’re searching for cool things to do in Spain that most travelers miss, you’re in the right place. This guide goes beyond the basics and goes into unique experiences in Barcelona, Madrid, Tenerife, and Valencia. From cooking your own paella to watching whales in the wild, these are the kinds of stories you’ll be telling long after your trip ends!
💃🏻 Watch a flamenco show in Barcelona
Flamenco show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobés
When people think of flamenco, they often think of southern Spain. But you can catch a live show right in Barcelona. A flamenco show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobés, you’ll sit just steps away from the stage as dancers stomp, spin, and clap with powerful emotion. The music is loud, the dresses are bright, and the energy fills the room.
You can even book a flamenco show package that includes drinks or dinner, making it a perfect night out. If you’re looking for cool things to do in Spain that feel dramatic and authentic, this is it. Grab your tickets early so you don’t miss out on one of the most exciting nights in Barcelona.
🔭 Go stargazing on Mount Teide in Tenerife
See the stars on Mount Teide in Tenerife
If you want something truly magical, head to Mount Teide. Mount Teide sits inside Teide National Park, Spain’s highest peak. At night, the sky here turns into a sparkling show of stars. Because there’s very little light pollution, you can see constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way.
Join a guided Mount Teide stargazing tour and look through powerful telescopes while experts explain what you’re seeing. It feels peaceful and exciting at the same time. This is easily one of the coolest things to do in Spain if you love nature and science. It’s also one of the top cool things to do in Tenerife, especially for couples or families who want something different.
🛶 Underground river cruise at the caves of San José
Cruise through the underground caves of San José
Did you know you can sail through an underground river in Spain? Just outside Valencia, the Caves of San José (also called Coves de Sant Josep) gives a one-of-a-kind boat ride through glowing rock tunnels. The water is calm and clear, and soft lights highlight the cave walls around you.
Book a Caves of San José day tour and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels like stepping into another world. If you’re hunting for cool things to do in Spain that most travelers skip, this should be high on your list. It’s also one of the most unique and cool things to do in Valencia for nature lovers.
⚽ Watch a live match of FC Barcelona
Live match of FC Barcelona
Even if you’re not a huge football fan, watching an FC Barcelona match live is thrilling. The stadium crowd chants, waves flags, and cheers loudly from start to finish. The energy is contagious, and you’ll quickly find yourself shouting along with everyone else.
Secure your FC Barcelona match tickets ahead of time, especially during big games. It’s one of the most exciting and cool things to do in Spain if you want to feel local passion up close. This is also a highlight if you’re a sports lover looking for cool things to do in Madrid because while the city has its own famous teams, Barcelona offers a different vibe that’s just as good.
🥘 Learn to cook paella in Madrid
Learn how to cook paella in Madrid! | Photo Credits: Zakhar Vozhdaienko on Pexels
Eating paella is great. Cooking it yourself? Even better. In Madrid, you can join a paella cooking class and learn how to prepare this classic Spanish dish from scratch. A local chef will guide you step by step, from choosing ingredients to stirring the rice just right.
You’ll laugh, taste, and maybe even sip some wine while you cook. At the end, you get to enjoy the meal you made. It’s fun, tasty, and super interactive. Food lovers will agree this is one of the coolest things to do in Spain.
🐋 Spot whales and dolphins in Tenerife
Whales and dolphins tour in Tenerife
Tenerife isn’t just about beaches. Hop on a whale and dolphin boat tour in Adeje and head out into the Atlantic Ocean. These waters are home to pilot whales and playful dolphins all year round. Seeing them swim freely in the wild is an unforgettable sight.
The boat crew shares fun facts about marine life, making the trip both exciting and educational. Bring your camera because you’ll want proof of this moment. Among all the cool things to do in Spain, this one stands out for animal lovers. It’s easily one of the best cool things to do in Tenerife if you want adventure on the water.
🏎️ Race your friends at Karting Las Americas
Karting Las Americas
Have the need for speed? Karting Las Americas in Tenerife lets you race around a professional track with sharp turns and long straights. Even if you’re a beginner or experienced driver, it’s easy to jump in and start racing.
Book your karting tickets in advance and challenge your friends or family to a friendly competition. The thrill of zooming around the track makes this one of the most fun and cool things to do in Spain. It’s perfect if you want a break from sightseeing.
FAQs about cool things to do in Spain
What is the #1 attraction in Spain?
Many people say the top attraction is the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. It’s stunning and very famous. But Spain offers so much more beyond one landmark, especially if you explore unique experiences like stargazing in Tenerife or cave tours near Valencia.
What are the top 10 things to do in Spain?
The list usually includes famous sites, beaches, and museums. But don’t forget hands-on activities like cooking classes, football matches, and boat tours. Mixing classic sights with cool things to do in Spain makes your trip more exciting and personal.
What can I do in Spain for fun?
You can watch live sports, take food tours, explore caves, go whale watching, or even race go-karts. Spain is packed with adventure and culture. There are cool things to do in Madrid, Barcelona, Tenerife, and beyond that suit every kind of traveler.
What is the 97 pound rule in Spain?
There is no official “97 pound rule” in Spain for tourists. Some travelers may confuse this with airline baggage rules or budget limits. Always check your airline’s policy and travel requirements before your trip.
What not to miss when visiting Spain?
Don’t miss local culture. Watch a flamenco show, taste authentic paella, and explore nature outside the cities. These unique activities often become the best memories of your trip.
See the cool side of Spain
Spain is more than sunny beaches and famous landmarks. It’s underground rivers, star-filled skies, cheering stadiums, and hands-on cooking fun. If you’re searching for cool things to do in Spain that most travelers don’t know about, now you have a list that goes beyond the ordinary.
So go ahead, book that tour, grab those tickets, and dive into something new. Your next unforgettable adventure in Spain is waiting!
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