A couples guide to visiting Spain

Look out over Europe in Nerja

The 16-kilometre stretch of coast around Nerja houses 10 different beaches, so there’ll be at least one you’ll both love.

Also at the centre of town is the beautiful Balcon de Europa headland, complete with coastal views that are sure to ignite some romance.

If you’re a foodie couple, you’ll love Nerja’s selection of hundreds of quality restaurants. There’s a little taste of everything here – from fresh seafood by the beach to high end dining with views to match. The nightlife scene is also a close second in variety and taste.

The beautiful medieval city of Granada is only a 40-minute drive from Nerja and provides the ideal spot for romantic strolls around the Alhambra Palace, hilltop fortress and Generalife Gardens. After all that exploring, simply sit at a streetside cafe and relax together with a drink.

Stay

We really can’t argue with the Balcon de Europa Hotel‘s claims that it has the best location in Nerja, as it’s right beside the namesake viewing point and overlooks La Caletilla Beach.

It’s also satisfyingly close to all of the town’s amenities. Facilities we think you’ll enjoy with your partner include the rooftop swimming pool, Nautico beachside restaurant and Piano bar.

Splurge or save in Marbella

Another Costa del Sol option – this time further west – Marbella is the choice for couples who enjoy the finer things in life.

The marina here oozes style, from the high end boutiques to cocktail bars with views over the expensive yachts bobbing on the water.

Among Marbella’s staggering 24 beaches is Nikki Beach, which houses a beach club with added swagger. DJs by the pool and classy themed parties complete with acrobats are the norm here.

It’s not all expensive drinks and lavish parties in Marbella though, as you’ll also find plenty of affordable places to eat and drink. You can also take part in free activities like spending time on the beaches and exploring the beautiful buildings.

Stay

An affordable place to stay in 4* style is the Senator Marbella Spa Hotel, located right in the centre of Marbella. It has a chillout terrace with shaded seating, a pool and hot tub on the roof, plus a range of spa treatments for its lucky guests.

Lively Lloret de Mar

One of the best places to sip cava in Catalonia is Lloret de Mar, a town that has a medieval hilltop castle and Italian Renaissance style gardens to explore by day.

To decide which beach you’d like to spend time on, wander together along the pretty Fenals footpath from Lloret beach to Fenals beach. At night, the bars and clubs open their doors in this, Costa Brava‘s nightlife capital.

In an hour you can drive or take the train down to Barcelona to be inspired by Gaudi’s extravagant architecture, hit the shops or stroll down Las Ramblas among the street performers. Barcelona has its own selection of beaches and nightlife of every kind.

Stay

Among Lloret de Mar’s wide selection of 4* All Inclusive hotels, the HTOP Royal Beach Hotel is one of the best located. Close to the centre and complete with a spa area, gym, sun terrace and free bike and quadricyle hire, you’ll have plenty to do at the hotel and beyond.

Isla Canela - an island away from it all

If you’re a couple that enjoys a quiet getaway, Costa de la Luz could be for you.

The seaside town of Isla Canela is a charming island with the Med on one sign and scenic marshland to the other. It has a six-kilometre beach, classy nightlife at the marina and authentic restaurants.

Close to Marismas de Isla Cristina National Park and a top notch golf course, you could play a round together or go bird watching on horseback.

An hour’s drive away is the largest city in southern Spain, Seville. It combines all the facilities of a modern city with the charm of Roman ruins, alongside plenty of Gothic and Moorish architecture to delve into.

Cadiz is another great option for sightseeing – best reached by boat, it’s an ancient port city that sits on a peninsula and is known for having over 100 watchtowers.

Stay

Staying at the grand Melia Atlantico Hotel, elegance emanates from every room and shared space.

The large pool has sea views as the beach is only a few minutes’ away and there are activities and sports laid on every day. Stay put for some evening entertainment, or wander 200 metres along to the bars and restaurants of Isla Canela itself.