According to forum posts, major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville are highly recommended for their rich cultural experiences and historical sites. Madrid is praised for its architectural beauty and art museums, while Barcelona is noted for its Modernist landmarks and vibrant shopping districts. Seville offers a charming atmosphere with significant sites like the Alcazar and the Cathedral.

Some travelers suggest coastal areas like San Sebastian and Malaga for those interested in beaches combined with urban exploration. San Sebastian is renowned for its beautiful beaches and culinary scene, particularly pintxos. Malaga is highlighted for its relaxed vibe, sunny weather, and cultural offerings, including numerous museums and historical sites.

For a deeper dive into Spanish culture and history, Granada and Cordoba are frequently mentioned. Granada is famous for the Alhambra, while Cordoba is known for its stunning Mezquita. Both cities offer a blend of Islamic and Christian historical influences.

According to forum posts, Bilbao and San Sebastian are highly recommended cities in Northern Spain. Bilbao is celebrated for its modern art at the Guggenheim Museum and the Fine Arts Museum. San Sebastian is famous for La Concha Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, and its vibrant old town full of pintxo bars.

Travelers have called out the Picos de Europa National Park as a must-visit for its stunning mountain landscapes. Additionally, the historic towns of Oviedo and Santander offer unique cultural experiences with architectural and historical significance.

For coastal attractions, Ribadesella is noted by travelers for its worthiness of a visit, offering picturesque beaches and scenic views. A Coruña and the village of Loiba also come highly recommended for their oceanic vistas and tranquil settings.

Some travelers suggest exploring less touristy places like the village of Alquézar and the Ordesa Natural Park for those interested in natural beauty and hiking opportunities. These sites provide a quieter experience of Spain's diverse landscapes.

According to forum posts, travelers enjoy exploring cities like Barcelona and Madrid, which are celebrated for their rich food, music, and architectural scenes. Cities such as Malaga are also highlighted for their museums, historic sites, and walkable downtown areas.

For many users, Spain's coastal regions are a prime choice for holidays, especially for those seeking a mix of relaxation and activities. Destinations like Malaga and the Costa del Sol are noted for their sunny climates and extensive beaches, while others seek out quieter spots like Nerja or El Campello for a less touristy experience.

Some travelers said they prefer quieter, culturally rich towns for a more relaxed and authentic Spanish experience. Destinations such as Santander are recommended for their pleasant weather and proximity to nature, ideal for visitors looking to avoid the hotter, more crowded tourist spots.

Travelers have called out places like Cadiz and Malaga for their vibrant nightlife and dining scenes, providing a lively atmosphere without the extremity of places like Magaluf, making them suitable for visitors looking for entertainment alongside relaxation.

According to forum posts, there are no direct trains currently available between Granada and Seville, requiring a change at Córdoba. Some travelers mentioned that the Renfe website should be checked regularly as schedules are updated frequently. Additionally, ALSA buses are available for this route, offering a straightforward alternative to train travel.

Travelers have called out that train tickets can sometimes be booked too early, leading to unavailable schedules. It's advised to check closer to the travel date for accurate train schedules and availability.

According to forum posts, Spain offers high-speed train services such as AVE and Avlo, which connect major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville efficiently. The AVE is the premium service, whereas Avlo is a low-cost option, both providing fast travel but with Avlo having additional charges for some services that are included in the AVE.

Some travelers have mentioned that while high-speed trains cover major routes, regional connections like those provided by Renfe can be ideal for accessing broader areas of Spain. These trains might be slower but connect less accessible regions.

Forum users often recommend the Man in Seat 61 website for comprehensive information on train types, routes, and tips on traveling by train in Spain. This resource is highlighted for its detailed guides on navigating the Spanish rail system.

Travelers have called out that Renfe's schedule posting can be delayed, so it's advisable to check their website regularly for updates. Payments for train tickets can generally be made via PayPal.

According to forum posts, a balanced itinerary for a trip to Andalusia spans around 8 to 10 days, allowing ample time to explore key cities without feeling rushed. Recommended cities include Seville for about 3 days, Granada for 2 days, and Córdoba for 2 days. Málaga can be considered for 3 nights if incorporating coastal experiences.

Travelers have suggested using trains for intercity travel within Andalusia, emphasizing convenience and efficiency. Seville serves as a good base for nearby day trips, potentially to Cádiz or Córdoba. Key attractions to visit are the Alhambra in Granada and the historic centers in Seville and Córdoba.

Posts highlight that staying in central locations within the cities like Seville’s Barrio El Arenal or near Granada’s Calle Reyes Católicos enhances the experience, making exploration on foot more feasible. Booking accommodations well in advance is recommended, especially for popular sites like the Alhambra.

Some travelers have successfully used PayPal to overcome issues with foreign credit cards on the Renfe website. This method has been recommended when typical credit card transactions fail.

Several users have reported persistent errors and difficulties when attempting to purchase tickets directly from Renfe's website. Errors ranged from generic error messages during the booking process to complete unavailability of ticket visibility.

Users have suggested other websites like Seat61 for detailed information on booking train tickets, although some alternative sites may charge additional booking fees. Moreover, Rail Europe has been mentioned as an alternative that accepts UK credit cards and offers easy ticket printing, though it also adds a small service charge.

According to forum posts, setting up and using a Renfe account can be beneficial. Once logged in, the account should list all purchased tickets, which can be printed in advance or accessed via the Renfe app using QR codes.

According to forum posts, U.S. and Canadian residents need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Spain. It's highlighted that not having an IDP can result in a fine of 250 euros if stopped by the police.

Some travelers mentioned that driving between cities on autovias or toll roads is straightforward. However, driving in cities can be challenging due to narrow streets and traffic restrictions, especially in places like Granada and Seville.

Travelers have called out that parking in cities is not free, and hotel parking can cost between 15-20 euros a day. It's advisable to consider these costs when planning a driving trip in Spain.

For many users, navigating with a rented car equipped with GPS has proven helpful. Automatic transmission cars are not the norm, so it is recommended to book these in advance if preferred.