Best Paradores in Spain: Book One of These Historic Hotels

If you’re dreaming of a trip to Spain and want something a little more magical than the usual hotel, let me introduce you to Paradors (paradores in Spanish- and we’re in Spain after all). 

These aren’t just places to sleep—they’re historic castles, monasteries, and palaces that have been transformed into boutique hotels. Staying in one feels like stepping straight into Spanish history, but with modern comforts (yes, there’s Wi-Fi and air conditioning).

Here are some of the best Paradores in Spain to inspire your trip.

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Why Stay in a Parador

The Paradores network spans the entire country, from mountaintop fortresses to seaside retreats, and they’re one of the most unique ways to experience Spain. 

There are currently 96 located across the country and they all have beautiful settings, incredible food, and plenty of atmosphere. Paradores offer more than just places to stay—they’re an experience.

Whether you’re wandering cobblestoned medieval towns, exploring wine regions, or road-tripping along the coast, there’s a Parador waiting for you.

You’ll find:

• Unique settings – castles, palaces, monasteries, and more.
• Regional cuisine – each restaurant highlights local specialties.
• Perfect locations – often in UNESCO towns, national parks, or historic centers.
• Affordable luxury – incredible experiences for surprisingly reasonable prices.

How much Paradors Cost

Although they are luxury hotels, Spain in general is relatively affordable.  And if you head off the beaten path to smaller towns, the prices are sometimes a bit lower if you are looking for more affordable options.  

Paradors near Barcelona

If you’re wanting to experience Barcelona and all the wonderful sights in this city (hello Sagrada Familia), staying in a nearby parador is a great option to get out of town (and away from the tourists) for a night or two.

It’s also a great way to explore this area and all it has to offer outside of just the bustling city of Barcelona.

Looking for some activities in the Catalunya area?  Top activities include:

• ⛪️ Visiting the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
• 🖼️ Checking out the art of Salvador Dalí
• ⛰️ A visit to Montserrat monastery

Parador de Alcañiz: Castle Stay in Aragón

Overlooking the town, the Parador de Alcañiz is set in a medieval castle-convent once held by the Order of Calatrava. Its towers, murals, and historic details make it one of Aragón’s most atmospheric hotels. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

With spacious rooms, regional dishes like roast lamb, and sweeping countryside views, the Parador de Alcañiz combines history, comfort, and scenery.

Book now 👉 Parador de Alcañiz 

Parador de Tortosa: Gothic Splendor in Catalonia

Set in the dramatic Zuda Castle, the Parador de Tortosa dates back to the 10th century and offers sweeping views over the Ebro River and mountains. If you’re interested in castle hotels in Spain, this is a great one. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

Inside, Gothic architecture meets modern comfort, while the restaurant serves Catalan specialties and local wines. It’s the perfect spot for travelers looking to combine a castle stay with exploring Catalonia’s history and landscapes.

Book now 👉 Parador de Tortosa 

Paradors in Northern Spain

If you’re looking to get off the tourist track a bit, consider staying in a parador in northern Spain.  There are several distinct areas in the north that offer beauty and culture.

People come to northern Spain to experience the diversity of landscapes- from rugged coastline to mountain peaks- as well as the unique culture and foods that you can only find in this part of Spain.

Looking for activities in northern Spain?  Top activities include:

• 🇪🇸 Getting to know Basque culture
• 🍷 Wine tasting at a Rioja winery
• 🎣 Visiting Asturian fishing villages

Galicia Paradores

Parador de Santiago de Compostela: A Pilgrim’s Reward

Beside Santiago’s iconic cathedral, the Parador de Santiago de Compostela is one of the most famous Paradores in Spain. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

Once a royal hospital for Camino pilgrims, it now offers elegant rooms, historic cloisters, and refined dining featuring Galician cuisine. Whether you’ve walked the pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago or are simply exploring Galicia, this Parador is a true highlight.

Book now 👉 Parador de Santiago de Compostela 

Parador de Pontevedra: Noble Charm in Galicia

In Galicia’s Rías Baixas wine country, the Parador de Pontevedra is set in a 16th-century Renaissance palace. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms, antique furnishings, and regional cuisine paired with local Albariño wines. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

Just steps from Pontevedra’s old town, this Parador is ideal for exploring the region’s plazas, churches, and vineyards while not needed to stary too far from home.

Book now 👉 Parador de Pontevedra 

Paradores Asturias

Parador de Gijón: A Lakeside Escape in Asturias

Housed in a former 19th-century mill, the Parador de Gijón overlooks a small lake in Isabel la Católica Park. Cozy rooms, peaceful gardens, and easy access to Gijón’s beaches make it a charming retreat. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

The restaurant highlights Asturian cuisine, from comforting fabada bean stew to fresh seafood, making this Parador a perfect balance of city and nature.

Book now 👉 Parador de Gijón 

Parador de Corias: The “Asturian Escorial”

The Parador de Corias is an 11th-century monastery nicknamed the “Asturian Escorial.” With stone walls, vaulted halls, and archaeological treasures, it’s steeped in history yet offers modern comfort with spacious rooms. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

Surrounded by valleys and the Narcea River, it’s a great base for hiking, village-hopping, and enjoying hearty Asturian cuisine.  And to sooth those sore muscles from hiking all day, there’s even a spa.

Book now 👉 Parador de Corias 

Paradores Cantabria

Parador de Limpias: A Royal Retreat in Cantabria

Set in the Palacio de Eguilior, once a summer residence of King Alfonso XIII, the Parador de Limpias is surrounded by lush gardens and centuries-old trees. With tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a restaurant serving Cantabrian cuisine, it’s ideal for relaxation. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

Its location also makes it perfect for exploring nearby beaches, fishing villages, and natural parks which makes it the perfect place if you’re looking for a little nature on your trip to Spain.

Book now 👉 Parador de Limpias

Parador de Santillana Gil Blas: Medieval Ambiance in Cantabria

In the village of Santillana del Mar, the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas is set in a 17th-century noble mansion on the main square. 

image courtesy of Booking.com

With cozy rooms and a restaurant serving Cantabrian specialties, it offers comfort and authenticity. Step outside and you’re right in the heart of town, surrounded by cobblestones, Romanesque churches, and timeless medieval charm.

Book now 👉 Parador de Santillana Gil Blas 

Basque Paradores

Parador de Hondarribia: A Castle Over the Sea

The Parador de Hondarribia, set in the 10th-century Castle of Charles V, overlooks the Bay of Biscay and the colorful Basque town below. With massive stone walls, medieval towers, and sweeping sea views, it feels like stepping back in time—yet offers all the modern comforts.

image courtesy of Booking.com

Outside, stroll through Hondarribia’s cobbled old quarter, full of pintxo bars, pretty balconies, and Basque charm. For history, atmosphere, and an unbeatable location on the French border, the Parador de Hondarribia is one of northern Spain’s most unforgettable castle hotels.

Book now 👉  Parador de Hondarribia

Paradors near Madrid

Madrid is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, royal history, and world-class art museums.  But my favorite is Retiro Park where you can while away the day.  

But there’s lots to see outside of the city as well.  From historic monasteries to hunting lodges to walled cities, there is lots to see and do near Madrid. 

Looking for some activities near Madrid?  Top activities include:

• 🏰 Living out fairytale dreams at the castle in Segovia
• 🍳 Taking a tapas cooking class
• 🎟️ Skip-the-line tickets to the Royal Palace

Top Paradors near Madrid

Parador de Chinchón: Monastic Charm Near Madrid

Just outside Madrid, the Parador de Chinchón is housed in a 15th-century monastery with cloisters, gardens, and a church converted into a unique suite.

image courtesy of Booking.com

Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy fruit-filled monastic gardens, and admire an exclusive collection of religious art. With peaceful rooms and local cuisine, it’s an ideal countryside escape with plenty of character.

Book now 👉 Parador de Chinchón 

Parador de Toledo: Stunning Views of Spain’s Imperial City

Perched on a hillside, the Parador de Toledo gives you unbeatable views of the city’s skyline, including the Alcázar and cathedral. The Castilian-style hotel has spacious rooms, rustic charm, and a pool for hot summer days.

image courtesy of Booking.com

Guests can enjoy Manchegan cuisine like partridge stew and marzipan in the restaurant, making it the perfect blend of scenery, history, and flavor.

Book now 👉 Parador de Toledo 

Paradors in Southern Spain

Southern Spain is one of my favorite areas of the country.  From lazing on the gorgeous coastline, to exploring the Moorish architecture in Granada, to experiencing flamenco at its source, you will not come away from southern Spain disappointed. 

Looking for things to do in Andalucía?  Top activities include:

• 🌊 Visiting the white towns near the coast
• 🍊 Marveling at the tiles in the Alhambra
• 💃 Experiencing a flamenco show in Seville

Paradores Andalucía

Parador de Granada: Luxury on the Alhambra Grounds

The Parador de Granada, located on the grounds of the Alhambra, is one of Spain’s most magical stays. Housed in a 15th-century convent, it offers elegant rooms and a terrace restaurant with incredible views.

image courtesy of Booking.com

Best of all, when the day-trippers leave, you can wander the Alhambra’s gardens in peace, watching the sunset over one of the world’s great landmarks.

Book now 👉  Parador de Granada

Parador de Carmona: Castle Luxury Near Seville

Just outside Seville, the Parador de Carmona sits in a 14th-century Moorish fortress and is known for having one of the most beautiful dining rooms in Spain. With vaulted ceilings, Moorish tiles, and peaceful courtyards, it’s a serene escape.

image courtesy of Booking.com

Relax by the Mudéjar fountain or enjoy traditional Andalusian dishes while surrounded by history and countryside views.

Book now 👉 Parador de Carmona 

Parador de Úbeda: Renaissance Elegance in Andalusia

The Parador de Úbeda was the first palace converted into a Parador and remains a showcase of Renaissance architecture. Located in the central square of this World Heritage city, it offers high-ceilinged rooms, modern amenities, and a restaurant serving Andalusian specialties.

image courtesy of Booking.com

The Pardor de Úbeda is the perfect base for wandering this delightful town’s charming streets and exploring its art and history.

Book now 👉 Parador de Úbeda 

Planning you Paradores Road Trip

One of the best ways to experience Spain is to road trip from Parador to Parador. Start in Madrid and circle through Andalucía.  Or hop along the northern coast through Asturias and Galicia to avoid the tourists. Wherever you go, you’ll find a Parador perfectly placed for exploring.

👉 Pro tip: Book early, especially for the famous ones like Granada and Santiago—they fill up fast.

🚗 Want your own wheels? Book a rental car for your trip here.   

Parador Hopping by Train

You can also get to many of the paradors listed here by train (or sometimes bus).  It won’t allow you quite as much freedom to come and go, but it’s do-able! 

🚃 Traveling by train? Book train tickets for your trip here.

Getting to Spain

If you’re coming from overseas, chances are you’ll be landing in either Madrid or Barcelona.  But you can easily get anywhere in Spain flying, train, bus, or driving.

✈️ Looking for flights? Find your flights here!

My Favorite Travel Websites

Questions about Travel in Spain

Still have questions? 🤔
Get in touch and I’ll do my best to answer them!

✨ Start planning your itinerary and make room for a few of the best Paradores in Spain—you’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping wine in a palace courtyard or watching the sunset from a convent terrace.
Happy travels… 🏰 ⛪️