Spagna Smart Going

About the destination: Barcelona is a coastal city in northeastern Spain. It's the capital and biggest city of the autonomous region of Catalonia, and the second most populated municipality in Spain. The city has a population of 1.6 million within its limits, but its urban area, which extends to many neighboring municipalities within the Province of Barcelona, is home to approximately 4.8 million people. This makes it the fifth most populated urban area in the European Union, following Paris, the Ruhr area, Madrid, and Milan. Barcelona is one of the largest metropolises on the Mediterranean Sea, situated on the coast between the mouths of the Llobregat and Besòs rivers. It's bordered to the west by the Serra de Collserola mountain range, the highest peak of which is 512 meters (1,680 feet) tall.

About the destination: The province of Madrid is a historical provincial division of Spain, which now corresponds to the single-province autonomous community of Madrid. Its boundaries were primarily established during the territorial reorganization of 1833 by Javier de Burgos, and it also incorporated the municipality of Valdeavero, with an area of 19 square kilometers, which was previously part of the province of Guadalajara, in 1850. Its governing body, the Provincial Deputation of Madrid, along with COPLACO (Planning and Coordination Commission), were the two entities that formed the basis for the regional self-governing institutions of the Community of Madrid, which ceased to exist after the formation of the autonomous community in 1983. The province of Madrid was one of the five provinces included in the now-defunct region of Castilla la Nueva.

About the destination: Seville has a unique charm, this vibrant city is filled with enchanting traditional architecture in hues of lemons, plums, and oranges. The Guadalquivir River flows roughly from north to south through Seville. The majority of the city, including the historic district of Barrio de Santa Cruz, is located on the east bank, while the Barrio de Triana is situated on the west bank. At midnight, spontaneous singing, clapping, and guitar playing fill the bars and streets. During the day, the city's diverse heritage becomes evident. The Romans, Moors, Catholic Spaniards, and now, throngs of tourists have all attempted to claim Seville as their own. Indeed, Seville has always managed to ignite the imagination of newcomers. From the outside, the cathedral may not seem impressive; you must enter to truly grasp its size. Huge pillars support the vaulted ceiling, and the abundance of treasure is unbelievably magnificent. Another major attraction of the city is La Giralda, which was the minaret of the Almohad mosque. From the top, there's a spectacular view of the city across the spiked spires and buttresses of the roof. La Torre del Oro, a symbol of the city, originally covered in golden tiles, has been standing guard over the town since 1220. Seville at night is magical, everything takes on a mystical aura that can mesmerize and if you know how to experience it, you will be captivated by its charm.

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.

About the destination: The Islamic leaders of Granada cherished and beautified this regional capital. Overlook the humble apartments of Granada and gaze upwards: the imposing clay-red Alhambra palace stands out against the Sierra Nevada, the sunniest ski slopes in Europe. The invigorating coastline is also within close proximity. The Alhambra, which translates to 'the red one' in Arabic, is a globally renowned Islamic monument of enduring magnificence, situated on a hill blanketed with lush woods and gardens. The numerous courtyards and rooms within the palaces of the Casa Real are among the finest examples of Mudejar art and architecture. Built after the Reconquista of Granada to replace the mosque that previously stood there, the Cathedral of Granada is the first purely Renaissance cathedral in Spain. The Royal Chapel, accessible through a separate entrance, houses the intricate tomb of Ferdinand and Isabella, along with Isabella's impressive private art collection. South of the Cathedral lies the Albayzin, the old Arab quarter, a maze of winding alleyways with Moorish-style archways adorning the walls. Granada is renowned for its holy week celebrations, which include festivities and processions. For a less cultural experience, stick to the student pubs around the university.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European ambiance, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. This capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - a powerhouse in sectors ranging from finance to fashion, and of course, football. However, what sets Milan apart is its standing as the hub of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels, and paparazzi flock to the city biannually for its spring and fall fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama, and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. Undoubtedly, it's one of the best places in Italy for shopping, or even just window shopping. As Italy's primary industrial, commercial, and financial center, Milan unsurprisingly has a business-like demeanor. At first glance, it may not seem impressive, but if you take the time and make an effort to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle, and you'll find impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the trendy Brera district and vibrant university quarter, not to mention a landmark like the Duomo, or the fact that the city proudly houses Leonardo da Vinci's 15th-century masterpiece, The Last Supper. Milan leaves no room for criticism when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife usually begins at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo, where locals relax with after-work drinks and snacks before heading home, is more the norm than the exception. So, whether you’re in search of affordable fashion, an alternative city getaway, or an opportunity to paint the town red, Milan undoubtedly has it all.