Northern vs. Southern Spain

Debating whether to travel to northern or southern Spain? We’re going to breakdown the highlights of visiting both regions in easy to read lists, so you can make the decision for yourself…

Both Northern and Southern Spain are full of history, culture and great food and both regions deserve a visit, but we understand if you can only pick one (at the moment). Each region in Northern and Southern Spain is very different also. It as if Spain is made up of many different countries though out, so you are guaranteed a variety of culture, cuisine and sites wherever you venture.

Northern Spain Highlights:

• Greener landscapes with mountains, forests, parks and the purest beaches (does have a rainy season)
• The Most Michelin Starred restaurants and more sophisticated cuisine
• The most popular wine regions of Spain are located in the north of Spain (Rioja, Navarra, Galacia)
• Home of the Cathedral and ending point of the famous pilgrimage, the Way of St. James
• Trendy Film and cultural festivals
• Less touristy and more pristine landscapes
• The beautiful Galacia, Cantabria and Basque regions
• More languages spoken in the North
• Home to San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander and other gorgeous coastal cities

Northern Coast of Spain (Santander)

Southern Spain Highlights:

• Warmer temperatures and sunny all year long
• Larger beaches with more visitors
• Larger tourism industry and said to be ‘friendlier’ to tourists
• Home to the unique and lively Andalusia region
• Wonderful shows of Flamenco song and dance
• English is more widely spoken in the south
• Southern cuisine is delicious and known to be ‘comfort’ food
• Local Sherry wine is produced here

Traditional Flamenco dancer in Southern Spain (Seville)

Guests interested in exciting tour packages to Northern and Southern Spain may call 1-800-724-5120 or visit our website at www.palacetours.com for more information on our tested luxury and specialized packages offered in Spain.

Flamenco Style Song and Dance

Flamenco is the style of song and dance deeply rooted in Spain’s Andalusian region. The Spanish art form is made up of guitar (toque), song (cante), dance (baile) and sharp hand clapping (palmas) called staccato.  The dancing is emotional and expressive – conveying the emotions and telling the story of the song through movements, stomping and intense facial expressions.  The song and music set the mood for the dancer and emotions may range from sadness to joy or even passion. All together, each element of Flamenco comes together perfectly, telling a unique and captivating story to its audience. 

Although the exact roots of this dance are widely debated, it is most associated with those of Romani heritage in Spain and was declared one of the Masterpeices of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010.

Check out these pictures from a Flamenco style song and dance show in Granada this summer:

Curious to see a show of traditional Flamenco song and dance for yourself? Join us on an unforgettable journey through Southern Spain aboard the luxurious Al Andalus Interested guests may call 1-800-724-5120 or visit our website at www.palacetours.com for tour details and reservations.