The top five

1. Barcelona

Home to cutting-edge architecture, world- class dining and pulsating nightlife, Barcelona has long been one of Europe’s most alluring destinations. Days are spent wandering the cobblestone lanes of the Gothic quarter, basking on Mediterranean beaches or marvelling at Gaud´ı masterpieces across the city. By night, Barcelona is a whirl of vintage cocktail bars, gilded music halls, innovative eateries and dance-loving clubs, with the party extending well into the night. There are also colourful markets, hallowed arenas (such as Camp Nou where FC Barcelona plays), and a calendar packed with traditional Catalan festivals.

2. Pintxos in San Sebastian

Chefs here have turned bar snacks into an art form. Sometimes called ‘high cuisine in miniature’, pintxos (Basque tapas) are piles of flavour often mounted on a slice of baguette. As you step into any bar in central San Sebastia´n, the choice lined up along the counter will leave you gasping. In short, this is Spain’s most memorable eating experience. Although the atmosphere is always casual, the serious business of experimenting with taste combinations (a Basque trademark) ensures that it just keeps getting better.

3. The Alhambra

The palace complex of Granada’s Alhambra is close to architectural perfection. It is perhaps the most refined example of Islamic art anywhere in the world, not to