• El Celler de Can Roca - Girona, Spain

Recently scored "Restaurant" magazine's coveted title of Best Restaurant in the World, thanks to its perennial quest to push the boundaries of culinary arts. The famed Catalonian eatery made a splash in 2013 when it staged a 12-course food opera, El Somni, described as a "multi-disciplinarian, analogue, digital, real, dreamy, cybernetic and culinary work with opera, electronica, poetry, 3D, performing arts, singing, reflection, painting, films, music and cookery." Somehow not exhausted from that endeavor, in 2014 the restaurant took its entire team away from its base in Girona, Spain, for a tour of the Americas to showcase innovative dishes like perfume-inspired desserts and plates with hidden motors. Beyond all the pomp and circumstance, El Celler de Can Roca is really just a family operation run by three talented brothers. The eldest, Joan, is the head chef. The youngest, Jordi, is the pastry chef. Josep, in the middle, is the sommelier.

• Museu Nacional do Azulejo - Lisbon

If you spend, oh, three hours in this city, you’ll probably have about 200 photos of the amazing ceramic tiles, or azulejos, on your phone, and at this museum, you can do a deeper dive into their history.

• Calouste Gulbenkian Museum - Lisbon

You could spend an entire day in this really beautiful and well-done art museum, but you’ll want to save plenty of time for the surrounding gardens that span a whopping 19 acres. Say hey to baby chicks for me.

• Jardim Botanico Tropical - Lisbon

Not like you’re going all the way to Lisbon just to feel like you’re somewhere else, but wow is this exotic plant paradise transportive.

• Graça do Vinho - Lisbon

I can’t even remember how we stumbled upon this low-key, totally unassuming spot for a vinho verde-and-cheese snack, but when I give people Portugal recs, it’s always a winner — it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a local.

• Cervejaria Ramiro - Lisbon

We lucked out and didn’t have to wait in line for this famed 60-year-old seafood joint, but it would have been worth if it if we did. Bring a sense of adventure and order lots of different plates of shellfish — even the varieties you’ve never heard of.

• Horta dos Brunos - Lisbon

If you do a fancy dinner in Lisbon, do it here. It’s a tiny, romantic spot where the staff really gets to know you and makes sure you’re tasting all the right things from their (recited, not written!) menu of traditional Portuguese food. Everyone else in the place seemed to be a regular, which is always a good sign.

• Ramos Pinto - Porto

After touring this port house, I became a total Ramos Pinto devotee. My favorite bottle is the ten-year-aged RP10 — I’ve seen it on the menu at Gramercy Tavern, so you know it’s good.

• Clerigos Tower - Porto

I did my best to keep my claustrophobia under control in order to navigate the narrow, winding stairs of this tower, and I was glad I did. The views from the top are one of the best ways to get a handle on the terrain and layout of the city.

• São Bento Station - Porto

This is one stunning train station. And get this: It took the artist who made the 20,000 ceramic tiles that cover the walls 11 years to do so.

• Trams - Porto

Whenever you get tired of climbing all the stairs: a nice, easy way to see the city. And the vintage cars are real cute!

• Mercearia Das Flores - Porto

If you want to people-watch on Rua das Flores — and you should! — do it at this chill little spot with lots of regional products.

• A Vida Portuguesa - Porto

Everyone will tell you to go to this shop — which has locations in both Porto and Lisbon — and everyone is right. Even just browsing gives you a great sense of the wide array of things that are Portuguese-made.

• Adega Mayor - Alentejo

This place is probably known as much for its architecture as it is for its wine. Even if you’re not a drinker, the grounds and the building are stunning enough to be worth a visit.

Herdade do Esporão - Alentejo

The only thing wrong with this place is that there isn’t a hotel on the premises — because after visiting, all I wanted to do was to spend more time there. Until that’s an option, go for the super-educational wine tour, stay for an outdoor lunch (If you eat late, you might have the place to yourself like we did!), and take in the scenery as long as you can.

• Botequim da Mouraria - Alentejo

Évora is the capital of the Alentejo region, and it’s a town worth spending a day exploring even if you don’t stay over. When you do, please eat here — there are only nine seats, all at the bar, so your best bet is showing up early.

• Novacortiça - Algarve

Cork is a very big deal in the region — you’ll see a lot of trees if you do any driving — and touring this factory is enlightening. You end up learning a lot about wine and Champagne in the process!

• Fabrica Beach - Algarve

When people say ‘unspoiled,’ this is what they’re talking about. During high tide, you can grab a boat to shuttle you there, and during low tide, you can just walk.

• Restaurante Fábrica do Costa - Algarve

If you do an afternoon at Fabrica beach, eat here, eat here! I recommend the awesome clam and rice dish, but I’m willing to wager that all of the seafood is top-notch.”

• Sublime Comporta - Comporta

When I first went to Comporta, an awesome, protected beach town a little over an hour’s drive from Lisbon, this place wasn’t open yet, and you could tell the area was hungry for it. It’s very luxe-y with great food — we went to an absolutely beautiful wedding there. But there are also tons of great Airbnbs in the area with private pools, like this one that we stayed at, if that’s more your scene.

• Sal - Comporta

This is what beach-restaurant dreams are made of. Set on one of the prettiest, least crowded stretches of sand you’ve ever seen, the seafood is only rivaled by the views.”

• Gomes Supermercados - Comporta

Okay, this is going to sound weird, but one of my favorite places for souvenirs is the (admittedly fancy) grocery store in Comporta. It has classic ceramics from Bordallo Pinheiro, oils and vinegars made in the area, and locally made baskets — along with beach snacks!

• Vintage-Department - Comporta

Comporta, for as tiny as it is, boasts a surprisingly high volume of beautifully-curated home decor shops. This place mixes vintage and new, with a healthy dose of traditional Portuguese items thrown it. If it doesn’t force you to stop and wonder how insane it is to try to fit a rug in your suitcase…you’re a more rational person than I am.

• Royal Palace - Madrid

Madrid’s Royal Palace is the epitome of Spain’s gorgeous Baroque architecture. The Royal family no longer lives there, but it remains an important venue for ceremonies and an icon of Spain’s history. (Tip: Make Isabella, The Warrior Queen your inflight reading and arrive with an appreciation for one of the most influential female leaders in history.)

• Wine Tasting - Madrid

While not exactly in Madrid proper, you’re too close to wine country to miss a day trip for tapas and the grapes. If you’re set on staying in the city limits, try a tapas and wine tasting tour , some made even cooler by being set in a cave.

• Museums - Madrid

Of course, you won’t miss the museums. Spain’s “Golden Triangle,” the three world class museums located on The Paseo del Prado, houses classics from El Greco, Goya, and Van Dyck. If you only have time for one, the Museo del Prado is world-renowned. Spent too much on wine? Entrance there is free after 6 pm; show up at least 30 minutes before and plan on a line.

• Green Spaces - Madrid

Casa de Campo is five times bigger than New York City’s Central Park and makes for a gorgeous morning stroll. La Grania de San Ildefonso houses the beautiful gardens that used to be a summer retreat for Spanish monarchs.

• Gourmet Experience Callao - Madrid

Sits atop one of its locations and offers up an impressive food court where a range of international eats can be found at many prices.

• Tinto y Tapas - Madrid

This tiny space tucked away on a quiet Madrid street is everything you want in quick, cheap eats. The empanadas are the perfect late night snack before you turn in. The thin crust pizza here also makes a reasonable side dish circa post-club.

• La Musa - Madrid

In the city where “late to late” is the norm, jet lagged gals will appreciate that La Musa opens for breakfast at 9 am. Pair your coffee with one of their homemade pastries. Dulce de leche mille-feuille for breakfast? We won’t tell.

• Carmencita - Madrid

It’s not super common to find eggs for breakfast in Madrid, but a late night of wine and tapas can leave a girl craving some traditional morning fare. Carmencita has delicious local takes on Eggs Benedict as well as mimosas and other brunch cocktails if you need a little hair of the dog.

• Restaurante Membibre - Madrid

Traditional Spanish cuisine is the draw at Restaurante Membibre. If you’re feeling adventurous, pick one of their famous game dishes or the mollejas (sweetbreads).

• Los Maniquis - Madrid

Do it for the ‘gram. Las Chicas, los Chicos, y los Maniquís pays homage to all things 80s in Madrid. Portions here are small tapas style, so plan on ordering a good list of dishes and splitting them with your travel companions.

• Cocque - Madrid

A decadent night out at two-Michelin-star Restaurante Coque does not disappoint. Choose between the half or full tasting menu and start the evening with a drink at the well-styled bar. You might be there on a night where an entire suckling pig is roasting in the oven or, if you’re lucky, for the peanut ice cream with olive oil.

• Macera - Madrid

Wine and beer are still the drinks that take center stage in Spain, making a perfectly crafted cocktail all the more delightful to stumble upon. Macera makes their own spirits, working in herbs and fruits for unique combinations.

• Salmon Guru - Madrid

These bartenders are true alchemists, whipping up bespoke cocktails in a cozy space. The addition of egg whites to their margarita will make you want to master that ingredient in your own home bar.

• Radio, The Roof Bar - Madrid

Take in the scene (which sometimes includes the who’s who of Madrid locals) while enjoying great music and luxe cocktails. Pro Tip: If you want to skip the crazy crowds, this is the perfect spot for a quick sip before your late afternoon siesta.

• Francesinha - Portugal

The francesinha is a Portuguese sandwich whose name means (roughly) “Little Frenchie.” While it superficially resembles the croque monsieur (it’s toasted and covered in cheese), its components—including linguiça, a smoked sausage—are distinctly Portuguese. The whole thing is smothered in a beer sauce, which makes this sandwich a messy but comforting delight.

• Portugal

“Some places have their moments when everything comes together and they become irresistible—Paris in the 1890s, Barcelona in the 1990s, Cartagena in the 2010s,” says Red Savannah’s Morgan-Grenville. “That time for Lisbon is now. It really is one of the most vibrant, good-value, ebullient and attractive cities in Europe.” The city has reached the “tipping point,” and much-needed renovations of the beautiful old quarters have removed the aura of dilapidation. He adds, “Top chefs like José Avillez and Kiko Martins are emerging as lynchpins of a brilliant restaurant scene, which is supported by an even more energetic night-life.” And while the country’s southern beaches have long attracted international visitors, a renaissance elsewhere is under way. New hotels in recent years have added to the appeal of exploring the country, including the charming Areais do Seixo, on the coast north of Lisbon, Porto’s exquisite Yeatman hotel and Six Senses’ resort in the Douro Valley.

• Arzak (San Sebastian, Spain)
• Azurmendi (Larrabetzu, Spain) *sustainable restaurant award*
• Casa Pepe de la Judería - Cordoba, Spain

A rooftop terrace and overlooks the city. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the salmorejo, a cold soup puree of tomatoes, bread, garlic and olive oil, topped with bits of Spanish ham. This soup, along with ajoblanco, a cold soup of almonds, garlic and olive oil, is heavy on the olive oil, an important ingredient in Cordoba's cuisine since it is produced in abundance in the countryside.

• Puerta Sevilla - Cordoba, Spain

Another restaurant favored by locals for its large outdoor dining area and tasty modern interpretations of traditional dishes.

• Sojo Ribera - Cordoba, Spain

An always vibrant spot on the Guadalquivir River with a rooftop. "I come here around 11 at night and sit outside and sip a glass of red wine.

• UNESCO sites - Cordoba

Start off Saturday by hitting two of the UNESCO World Heritage sites: the historical quarter and the Mosque-Cathedral, which is situated within the quarter. Crowds are thin in the morning, according to Gonzalez. "Tourists tend to go between 2 and 5 in the afternoon, so I never suggest going then," he says. Attractions here include a 14th-century synagogue; the Alcazar, a palace fortress dating back to the Arab times that has Instagram-worthy gardens full with flowers; and a dozen or so churches, mostly from the 13th and 14th centuries. Many of these churches are in an area called El Realejo, which doesn't see many tourists. "Locals come here for mass (usually between 10 a.m. and noon), and anyone can enter for free and watch services going on," says Gonzalez. Then there's the Mosque-Cathedral. Built between 784 and 786 as a mosque, it was established as a cathedral in the 13th century when the Christians conquered the city and was Cordoba's first UNESCO World Heritage site (chosen in 1984). The sprawling structure, measuring at about 250,000 square feet, is a showpiece for exemplary Moorish architecture and a stunning cathedral at the same time. Irurita believes visitors will be overwhelmed by the Arab inscriptions and motifs in the domes and walls inside, along with several chapels and more than 850 columns constructed from marble, granite and onyx found in the city's destroyed Roman buildings. General admission is 10 euros, and there's no need to book a visit in advance. Medina Azahara. Discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, this palace fortress is set in the countryside about a 10-minute taxi ride from the city center. Irurita likens Medina Azahara to a mini-Versailles but in an Arabic style. It was built as new city in the 10th century when Abd-al-Rahman III was named as a caliph or religious Muslim ruler. Inhabited for around 80 years before being left to ruins, the site gives visitors an idea of the roads, buildings and bridges that once existed.

Patios Festival - Cordoba, Spain

Started in 1918, was given the distinction in 2012. A celebration of spring, the festival takes place during the first two weeks of May when around 50 of the whitewashed houses in the historical center open their flower-laden patios to the public (entry is free). During the festival, the streets are crowded with tourists and locals who roam freely in and out of the houses where they mingle with the owners and see their patios. Carnations, roses and geraniums are most popular, but each patio is uniquely decorated.

• No. 10 Taberna - Cordoba, Spain

Get a glass of sherry and tapas. Both the octopus with potatoes and the sliced serrano ham come highly recommended.

• Side excursions - Cordoba, Spain

For visitors who have an extra day, Gonzalez suggests tacking on an excursion to a few of the surrounding villages. Each has its own appeal: Almodovar Del Rio, a 30-minute bus ride away, is home to an Arabic fortress where several takes of HBO's "Game of Thrones" were filmed, while Montoro, about 50 minutes by bus, features Cardena-Montoro Natural Park, where travelers can go hiking and horseback riding through the countryside.

• Hotel NH Collection Amistad Córdoba
• Sunset at Puento Nuevo - Ronda, Spain
• Quinta da Regaleira - Sintra, Portugal
• Pena Palace - Sintra, Portugal
• Castle of Moors - Sintra, Portugal
• Cordoba flower festival - Spain
• La Trastienda - Granada

Meaning “backroom” in Spanish, La Trastienda sits in the back of a shop that sells wine, cheese, and ham, in Granada, Spain. The space was originally a grocery store dating back to 1836, until the owner, Fernando Miranda, decided to add local wines and ham dishes for customers waiting in line.

• Cooperativa Vitivinícola da Ilha do Pico - Pico, Azores Islands, Portugal

The Azores, a volcanic island archipelago that rises from the Atlantic Ocean nearly a thousand miles west of mainland Portugal, is considered a trailblazer in sustainable tourism for protecting its natural wonders and cultural heritage. In 2004, Pico Island was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its grape-growing and viniculture, which has flourished since the 15th century thanks to its mineral-laden soil. Visit the Cooperativa Vitivinícola da Ilha do Pico in Madalena and sample wines made from traditional Azorean grape varieties such as Verdelho, Arinto, and Terrentez. (Discover Europe’s far-flung Azores Islands.)

• Bodegas Monje - Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Picture of the view from El Sauza in Spain The Canary Islands' beaches, sunny weather, and natural wonders attract visitors from around the world. El Sauzal is a small village in the northwestern part of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Known for the Sierva de Dios Museum House (where pilgrims visit the 400-year-old body of Sister Maria de Jesús), the village is also home to the Bodegas Monje Winery, planted on the Tenerife Chinyero Volcano. Built in 1956, the winery still ages red wine in its original, 60-year-old oak barrels. Private wine tastings can be arranged in the modern barrel lounge, where guests can sample labels including Tinto Monje, Tradicional, and Tintilla. (10 incredible Mediterranean adventures.)

• Hoyos de Bandama - Grand Canara, Spain

The Hoyos de Bandama winery is situated next to the Caldera de Bandama, an inactive volcanic crater in Grand Canara, in Spain’s Canary Islands. Visitors can walk around the caldera, which also hosts a hidden, underground, volcanic rock bunker that dates to WWII. Before exiting the bunker, guests sip some of Bandama’s finest vintages including the dry white Boiler and the sweeter Caldera Semiducle wine. (These 20 islands are an adventurer's dream.)

• Livraria Lello - Porto

Dubbed by many as “the most beautiful bookshop in the world,” this gem opened in Porto in 1906. Although neo-Gothic is usually an architectural style reserved for ornate cathedrals, this bookshop makes for an excellent example of this sumptuous turn-of-the-century movement, which also comes with a heavy serving of both art nouveau and art deco. Livraria Lello’s crowning jewel is its crimson staircase, leading customers up into book heaven. To control the crowds, the owners have instituted a 5 euro cover charge (which can be purchased via their website) to visit the bookshop, which is taken off the price of any book you may decide to buy during your visit.

• Walk the Camino Del Norte - Spain
• El Perro y La Galleta - Madrid
• Oceanogràfic - Valencia, Spain

Located in the avant-garde architectural complex of Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències in Valencia, the Oceanogràfic aquarium offers a truly immersive experience. It has Europe’s longest underwater tunnel, where visitors get a front-seat view of more than 100 sharks of 21 different species. In addition, the aquarium features stunning sea life from the Mediterranean ocean, including barracudas, snakelocks anemones, and spiny lobsters. It also offers nighttime attractions, including live music and dolphin shows.

• Oceanário de Lisboa - Lisbon, Portugal

This Lisbon aquarium showcases four marine habitats crossing the temperate, tropical, and cold waters of the different oceans of the planet. The museum’s permanent exhibition features a stunning array of jellyfish, rich algae, penguins, and amphibians such as dusky salamanders, European tree frogs, and rubber eel. Kids can enjoy an overnight stay at the museum where they learn more about sharks.

• Grand Hotel Central - Barcelone

Rooftop pool

• Pena Palace - Sintra, Portugal

Pena Palace is the most colorful and well-recognized castle of the group. It’s an example of 19th century Romanticism architecture, and its real attraction is the colorful towers and façades which overlook Sintra. A must-see during any Sintra trip. Go for: the colorful façades and ornate rooms. Tickets €13.30.

• Quinta Da Regalaira - Sintra, Portugal

The Quinta da Regaleira is most known for its incredible gardens, which were designed to mimic secret orders and initiation ceremonies. Here you’ll find hidden tunnels, towers, and passageways. Many of them reference the Knights Templar and ancient Greek symbolism. Easily my favorite stop in Sintra! Go for: the gardens, which include old passageways and the famous initiation well (as seen below). Tickets €6 in person.

• Montserrate Palace - Sintra, Portugal

Often overlooked, Montserrate is one of the more unique palaces in the region. It blends a series of gothic, arabic, and indian architecture together — though it was commissioned by an Englishman! I loved the views of the rolling hills from this castle, and the intricate designs along the interior and exterior. In general, it’s smaller and less crowded than the other castles. Go for: peaceful gardens, rolling hills, and a palace that seems to belong in Morocco or India. Tickets €7.60.

• Castle of the Moors (Castelo Dos Mouros) - Sintra, Portugal

The Castle of the Moors is perched atop one of the highest hills in the area. It dates back to the 9th century, so unlike the other castles in Sintra, it has deteriorated and left in ruins. You can walk along the crumbling walls and also grab the best views over Sintra from here. Go for: incredible old castle ruins and views of the region. Tickets €7.60.

• National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional de Sintra) - Sintra, Portugal

The National Palace of Sintra is the most accessible as it’s located in the old town center. The history states that Portugal’s ruling nobility lived here from the 15th to 19th century. Photos on Instagram. Go for: old palacial rooms, including an old chapel and small garden. Tickets €9.50.

• Seteais Palace (Tivoli Palácio de Seteais) - Sintra, Portugal

Seteais Palace was originally built in the 18th century, and is now open to the public by day — and by night! For a true experience, you can book a stay in this palace-turned-five-star-hotel, which is conveniently located across the street from Quinta de Regaleira. Definitely on my bucket list. Photos on Instagram. Go for: the beautiful gardens and elegant interior, plus a once-in-a-lifetime overnight stay. Check out the hotel here.

• The Pastrami Bar - Barcelona

Speakeasy

• Costa Nova Beach - Portugal
• Ponta Delgada - Portugal
• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe - Basque Country
• Arume - Barcelona
• Ganbara - San Sebastián, Spain

The opportunities for eating well in and around San Sebastián are countless and varied. But if you’ve traveled to this part of the world hoping to experience its unique dining culture, you’re here to drink wine and eat pintxos. It’s hard to go wrong when picking a pinxtos bar in the narrow streets of San Sebastián’s old town — a cab driver told me that the best way to judge which place to visit was by the size of the crowd spilling out onto the street. And the largest, happiest crowd is often outside Ganbara. Wade through the throng, make your way to the counter, and marvel at the beauty: piles of vegetables and local mushrooms, platters of tiny perfect crab tartlets, miniature sandwiches stuffed with rosy jamón ibérico. The house specialty is wild mushrooms, sautéed with garlic and served with an egg yolk. The mushrooms are meaty and perfectly salted, the egg yolk rich and silken — it truly is one of the most perfect dishes I ate during my travels. Upstairs at Ganbara is a glorious party, but one of the things that elevates the restaurant above all the other fantastic pintxos bars in town is its lovely little basement dining room, where you can have a full sit-down meal. That same mushroom dish is available downstairs with the addition of seared foie gras (honestly, it’s kind of overkill, but why not?), along with a menu of Basque specialties like charcoal-grilled fish on skewers and hake cheek served in a mellow green sauce. Ganbara encapsulates everything good about eating in this part of the world: the incredible local produce and seafood, the casual conviviality of a crowded pinxtos bar, and the joyous ease of the restaurant-as-party -- one that happens every day, because life and food are always worth celebrating.

• Barcelona to Malaga

From Barcelona, the plan here is to head south along the coast. After an hour or two of enjoying views of the Mediterranean and stopping to take a photo or two, you’ll get to the port city of Tarragona. Roman ruins are among the attractions, including a second century amphitheater, Roman tombs, and the remains of the Forum. It’s also a great stop for its beaches, seafood restaurants, and medieval Old Town. From there, continue south on AP-7, passing through medieval towns that will beckon you to stop, look, take in the sights, and of course take plenty of photos. Peniscola is known for its 13th-century castle which played an important role in Christianity for many years. The walled city offers steep streets and stunning coastal views from its high point above the beaches. Your next stop will probably be Valencia, the perfect halfway point and a fascinating place to spend the night. After a day of medieval towns, Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences with its futuristic buildings and displays will be an amazing contrast. There’s a lot to explore, both old and new, and Valencia is the place to dine on its famous paella. From Valencia, A-92 takes you inland from the coast and on to beautiful Granada, known for its medieval and Moorish architecture, including the stunning Alhambra. It’s just a few more miles to Malaga, with its beaches and blend of Renaissance, Moorish, and modern architecture.

• Lisbon to Estoril

Increasingly popular with good reason, Lisbon is the starting point for this day trip to another coastal city. After you’ve visited Lisbon’s museums, walked its hills, explored its Roman and Moorish history, and listened to its traditional fado music, you’ll want to see more of Portugal with Lisbon as your home base. This road trip takes you inland on A-5, paralleling Portugal’s southern coast until it reaches Estoril. The drive is less than an hour, but you’ll probably stop as you pass through towns along the way. In Estoril, you’ll find picturesque beaches, restaurants, bars, and the Estoril Casino, one of the largest in Europe. Nearby is the fishing town of Cascais, also a popular tourist destination with beaches, historic buildings, and elegant 19th-century architecture. Both Estoril and Cascais can be explored during your day trip visit. For the drive back to Lisbon, consider taking a different route for a bit of variety. This one takes you inland a little further but adds only about fifteen minutes to the trip. Drive north on A-5 and then east on IC-19 for a circular drive to Lisbon in time for dinner and another entertaining evening in Portugal’s capital.

• Salmon Guru - Madrid
• Paradiso - Barcelona
• Dr. Stravinsky - Barcelona
• A room in the city - San Sebastian

I have to give a shoutout to my hostel in San Sebastian, as it was such a wonderful place to stay. A Room in the City was such a cool spot, with a rooftop bar, garden terrace, cosy lounge, and so many activities to join in with. It was one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed in, but man, the price. I hinted above that San Sebastian was horrendously expensive, but I was still shocked to find us spending €100 a night!!!! for a private room in a hostel.

• Livraria Lello - Portugal

Library said to inspire Harry Potter designs

• Caminito del Rey, Spain

This hike near Málaga was once considered one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. It clings to a tall cliffside, with narrow pathways and steep drops. In 2015, handrails were added and missing sections of the path repaired, so it's a lot safer now. A round trip takes around four hours, and anyone with a fear of heights might want to sit this one out. But the views and the adrenaline rush make it all worth it.

• 25 Fontes, Portugal

Madeira, an archipelago off the west coast of Portugal, is seriously beautiful. This seven-mile hike through the wilderness is the perfect way to discover that for yourself. The trail winds past 25 waterfalls — some big, some little. If it's warm enough, take a dip in the lagoon to cool off, then have a picnic lunch at the base of one of the falls.

• Works of Antoni Gaudí, Spain

Antoni Gaudí may not have been from Barcelona by birth (he was actually from Reus, about an hour and a half away), but his buildings put the city on the map: the otherworldly towers of La Sagrada Familia, the color-splattered mosaics of Park Güell, and the impressionist-like florals of Casa Batlló (pictured).

• Cotton Beach Club - Ibiza
• Ginger @ Sa Puta - Ibiza
• EL CORTIJO, CATALONIA, SPAIN

'This classic Catalan farmhouse does fantastic, simple cooking. They're known for their lamb chops and those idiosyncratic skinny steaks. Everything comes on the bone, and always with a side of spicy garlic aioli. We make up celebrations just to eat here, like: "Maria's new job," or "It's Sunday!" Just be sure you don't have any plans for the rest of the day.'

• QUARTEIRA, PORTUGAL

'Once the sun finally sets beyond the horizon, head off the beach in Quarteira and grab a table at Marisqueira Santiago, a family-run seafood restaurant for the freshest seafood and best clams and rice in the Algarve.

• Red-and-white candy-striped lounge beds around the rooftop pool at Soho House Barcelona look out over Port Vell marina.
• The Sky Bar at Grand Hotel Central in Barcelona.
• The covered terrace Limão at H10 Duque de Loulé in Lisbon opens up into an elegant, exclusive-feeling space, with bold blue and white decor echoing the vista's restorative hues above and beyond.
• There are superb views over the city from the terrace of the Gran Meliá Colon in Seville where Chef Dani García's bullfighting-themed gastrobar Burladero offers a diverting 21st-century take on classic Andalucían dishes.
• Hotel Pulitzer invites guest spinners to play alongside resident DJ Borja Male in Barcelona.
• Michelin-starred chef Gastón Acurio serves up delicious Peruvian food at the Terrat Rooftop Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona; with a range of traditional ceviches on the menu alongside inviting sharing plates such as griddled scallops and spiced yucca balls.
• Situated on the sixth floor of a car park in the Bairro Alto district in Lisbon, Park is an urban twist on the rooftop classic. Head here for casual cool with a slice of hipster, and enjoy cocktails, sangria and burgers from a terrace decked out with vibrant foliage.
• Costa Del Sol

Golfing for dad

• Livraria Lello - Porto
• Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is one of Europe's most-loved coastal regions, but while everyone flocks to the high-rise hotels in the west, the far east coast, wedged up against the Spanish border, is much less trammeled. As the name suggests, Praia da Ilha de Tavira is an island — or rather, it's a dune-like sandbar floating just off the coast at pretty Tavira. The sand is thick, deep, and the color of clotted cream; the gently shelving sea is as calm as a lagoon; and the beach stretches as far as the eye can see. There's not much shade, but you can rent a lounger and rattan parasol.

• Sa Riera, Costa Brava, Spain

A croissant of sand snatched from the rocky coastline, Sa Riera doubles as a tiny fishing village and a delectable beach. Sunbathe on either side of the plinth where the fishing boats were dragged up earlier in the morning, go scrambling over the rocks, or enjoy a snorkeling or diving session. The coastline around here is known for shipwrecks, caves, and ancient remains, and at Aiguablava, you'll swim along a seabed littered with Roman amphorae. This is Spain's cultural stretch of coast — both medieval Girona and the Dali Triangle (sites linked to the surrealist painter) are within an hour or so's drive.

• Paradiso - Barcelona
• Two Schmucks - Barcelona
• Salmon Guru - Madrid
• Sips - Barcelona
• R López de Heredia winery

Meanwhile, at the R López de Heredia winery in La Rioja, gigantic cobwebs drape the cellar walls and yet more cover the bottles. They aren’t Halloween props or atmospheric decor: they are home to the spiders who help the López de Heredia family keep their barrels and corks free from cork-eating moths – “the mortal enemy of long‑ageing wine”.