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You may not know that there are almost a hundred paradores in Spain. The Paradores are heritage monuments now converted to accommodations owned by the Spanish Government. This chain of parador Spain hotels opened its first establishment in the Sierra de Gredos in 1928, which boosted national tourism.
The Paradors are located on some of the most beautiful natural settings and surrounded by unique historic and artistic ensemble of monuments. The original intent of the network of paradores was to preserve the heritage of Spain and create a sustainable means of tourism. To this day, spending a night or two at one of these hostels is a unique experience since they offer a chance to sleep in medieval castles, convents, fortresses, and historic buildings.
There are many options, so check this map to see where the 25 best paradores in Spain are located:
Mejores paradores de españa
At the end of this article, you’ll also find a list of all Spain’s paradores and map of paradores in Spain so you can see which are in the city and which are more rural. Also, be sure to book a reservation in advance since there aren’t many rooms and they fill up quickly.
1. Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Católicos, one of the best paradores in Spain
The Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reyes Católicos in Plaza del Obradoiro is one of the best luxury paradores in Spain. It’s considered one of the most historic parador hotels in Spain since it’s in the old Royal Hospital, which was founded in 1499 by the Catholic monarchs and served to welcome pilgrims.
Inside, there is a museum, four cloisters, event and meeting rooms, a business center, a gift shop, a luxurious dining room, and spacious accommodations. It was renovated in 2006 but maintains its original aesthetics, including elements from the 15th century, making it one of the best hotels in Spain.
The two restaurants here are Dos Reis, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, and Enxebre, which serves traditional Galician cuisine. This is undoubtedly one of the best national hostels in Spain for anyone who wants to see Santiago de Compostela, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain.
2. Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, a nice parador in Spain with a spa
The Parador de Cruz de Tejeda in Tejeda, Gran Canaria, is perfect if you want to stay in the Canary Islands. This hostel offers beautiful views of the island, especially the Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria, which were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, this parador in Spain is the ideal accommodation for travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities.
In addition to its privileged location, the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda has a spa, so you can take a relaxing soak or indulge in a beauty treatment with volcanic rock, algae, or honey. It also has a restaurant that serves Canarian dishes so you can discover the gastronomy of the islands.
As for the rooms, they get lots of natural light, and they’re well-equipped and decorated. Also, this is one of the paradores in Spain with special offers, such as free spa access if you book four or more nights.
3. Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo, one of the best historic paradores of Spain
The Parador de Ciudad Rodrigo in Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca, was built inside the castle of Enrique II de Trastamara, making it one of the royal paradores in Spain. The building still preserves the Torre del Homenaje, where you can get beautiful views of the Campo Charro.
Meanwhile, Ciudad Rodrigo was declared a Historic and Artistic Complex and preserves Roman and medieval architectural elements, including walls, palaces, stately homes, and other ancient buildings.
The hotel has a restaurant specializing in charro dishes, which are made with sausages and roasts. You can book celebrations and weddings here, too. As for the accommodations, all the rooms are doubles and have everything you need to make your stay comfortable while maintaining the ancient essence of the place.
Without a doubt, this is one of the most beautiful paradores in northern Spain since it’s one of the few places where you can sleep in a castle. Also, unlike many other hostels, this parador accepts pets so you can visit with the whole family.
4. Parador de Alcalá de Henares, one of the most charming paradores in Spain
The Parador de Alcalá de Henares is one of the most charming inns in Spain. It’s in the old Colegio Mayor de San Jerónimo, in the city of Alcalá de Henares, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This parador in Spain is undoubtedly one of the best options for those who want to enjoy the historical tourism that this city offers. In addition, some of the most important literary figures in the country lived here, such as Cervantes, Francisco de Quevedo, and Lope de Vega, among others.
Despite being a historic building, this hostel’s interior has a modern theme with minimalist and elegant decor. Its facilities include a spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a bar, and a restaurant with delicious dishes.
This parador in Madrid also has a convention center and several conference rooms, making it one of the country’s top inns.
5. Parador de Cáceres, one of the most beautiful paradores in Spain
The Parador de Cáceres is inside a stone palace dating back to the 14th century, making it one of the best paradores in Spain. It’s inside a stone palace dating from the 14th century, making it one of the best Paradors in Spain. Its interior still preserves the vaulted ceilings, period furniture, and historic essence. In fact, the inn is in the historic neighborhood of Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The hotel has everything: a restaurant, a cafeteria, an outdoor area, and a lounge. In addition, the rooms are quite spacious and very well equipped. While the facilities have been renovated, they maintain their original appearance.
To get to the parador, you must cross the Arco de la Estrella and walk through cobbled streets. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best medieval parador hotels in Spain.
6. Parador de Cangas de Onís, one of the best paradores in Spain for families
The Parador de Cangas de Onís is a parador in northern Spain that you can’t miss. It’s in Asturias, next to the Sella River and surrounded by the Picos de Europa. The accommodation is inside the old San Pedro de Villanueva monastery and has a garden that can host events. It’s surely one of the prettiest places to stay, not only because it’s a beautiful stone and wood building, but the surroundings are gorgeous.
If you stay at this inn, you can visit the Picos de Europa Natural Park and the lakes of Covadonga. You could also see some of the nearby towns like Cabrales, where the popular cheese of the same name is made. There are several hiking trails here, which makes it one of the most interesting paradors in Spain for travelers who want to enjoy nature.
The facilities include simple but well-equipped rooms, as well as a restaurant specializing in Asturian cuisine. So, it’s a great place to enjoy delicious stews, cheeses, and cider.
Due to its location, this is one of the best paradores in Asturias, Spain for couples and families.
7. Parador de Chinchón, another great parador in Spain
The Parador de Chinchón, inside the old Augustinian convent of Chinchón, Madrid, is one of the most interesting tourist paradores in Spain.
Chinchón is a beautiful town with more than 200 wooden balconies in the Plaza Mayor, which become beautifully illuminated at night. There are also many monuments, like the Clock Tower, the monastery of the Poor Clares, and hiking trails.
The accommodations at this parador in Madrid have common areas and large windows overlooking the lovely cypress and rose gardens outside. The inn also has a seasonal outdoor pool and a restaurant specializing in Madrid stew, garlic soup, and roast lamb.
Its location and amenities make it one of the best paradores in Spain for a quiet and comfortable stay.
8. Parador Costa da Morte, a lovely parador in Spain with a pool
The Parador Costa da Morte is the most recently inaugurated of Spain’s paradores and is next to Praia de Lourido in Muxía, a municipality of A Coruña, Galicia. Its location makes it the ideal place to disconnect and enjoy a relaxing getaway. The surroundings include the sea, a cliffside beach, and the legendary Cape Fisterra Lighthouse, which the Romans considered the end of the world.
As for the accommodation itself, it has everything you need to make your stay comfortable, including an outdoor pool, a garden, a terrace, a lounge, a bar, and a delicious restaurant.
Parador Costa da Morte is undoubtedly one of the best paradores in Spain for travelers seeking tranquility, nature, and outdoor activities like hiking.
9. Parador de Cádiz, a nice parador in Spain near the beach
The Parador de Cádiz next to the Genovés Park in the historic center of Cádiz (one of the best cities to visit in Spain) is one of the nicest paradores in Spain. It’s just a few minutes from the beach as well as the Castle of San Sebastián, the Tower of Tavira, and the Museum of Cádiz. Its location and beautiful facilities make it one of the best paradores in southern Spain.
The hostel is inside a contemporary building and has an outdoor pool with ocean views and spacious rooms, making it ideal for a family vacation. There is also a buffet restaurant and a bar with drinks and snacks. In addition, it has a spa offering massage therapy and facials, so it’s one of the most relaxing parador hotels in Spain.
10. Parador de Cuenca, one of the best paradores in Spain for sweeping views
The Parador de Cuenca is on the outskirts of the walled city of Cuenca, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical value. This hostel is inside an old convent, surrounded by greenery and just a short distance from the hanging houses of the Hoz de Huécar.
While it underwent renovations, this parador in Cuenca, Spain, preserves the essence of the old convent, like the cloister and chapel, which serves as a cafe. There is also a gym, a sauna, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
This luxury parador in Spain also has a restaurant serving typical Cuenca dishes. Overall, it’s an excellent inn for enjoying nature, history, and some quiet time.
11. Parador de Lerma, one of the best paradores in Spain for budgets
The Parador de Lerma is one of the most impressive hostels in Spain, as it’s inside the Ducal Palace of Lerma. This palace is from the Habsburgs era in the 17th century and is now one of the most luxurious paradores in Spain.
The inn is in Plaza Mayor, an area with several historical buildings like the convent of San Blas and Santo Domingo, the Pasadizo del Duque, and the Ex-Collegiate Church of San Pedro. There are also some interesting hikes nearby.
Moreover, the hotel has an elegant and majestic façade, a traditional restaurant, a central patio, and classically-decorated rooms. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best paradores in northern Spain for couples.
12. Parador de Cardona, another parador in Spain in a castle
The Parador de Cardona is a medieval castle parador in Spain near Barcelona. Along with the 9th-century castle, there is the Torre Minyona and an 11th-century church, two places to visit while staying here.
With its moats, towers, and walls, this is certainly one of the most impressive paradores in Spain. You can even get lovely views of the natural surroundings, like the Cardener River.
Staying here is like traveling back in time, and you can explore several footpaths and bicycle routes like the Molinos de la Sal, Camino de los Monjes, and Vía Salaria.
The hotel’s Gothic-inspired rooms have four-poster beds, and the restaurant serves traditional dishes made with regional products. There is also a gym and a sauna, so staying here is quite a relaxing experience.
13. Parador de Nerja, another one of the top paradores in Spain
The Parador de Nerja in Nerja, Malaga, is one of the best paradores in Spain near the beach. The greatest thing about this hotel is that it’s on a cliff next to a garden. This is also where the pool of this modern hostel is, so it’s quite an interesting place to stay.
All the rooms offer views of the sea, the Sierra Almijara, and the cliffs. Moreover, this parador in Nerja, Spain, has a buffet restaurant serving various dishes, including Andalusian specialties.
This is a lovely place to stay in Malaga since Nerja is a tourist spot on Costa del Sol. Besides enjoying pleasant temperatures year-round, the area has beaches and points of interest like the Cave of Nerja.
14. Parador de Teruel, a beautiful historic parador in Spain
The Parador de Teruel is on the outskirts of the historic city of Teruel. It’s inside a mansion built in the Mudejar style, which is characterized, among other things, by marble, tiles, and Arabic elements.
This parador in Spain is already a nice place to stay, but it’s even more special because it’s in Teruel, an old city with a lot to see. Some popular points of interest include the Cathedral of Santa María de Mediavilla, the tower of San Pedro, and the Mausoleum of the Lovers.
The rooms here are very spacious and decorated in a way that reflected the style of the building. There is also a restaurant serving local dishes like stewed lamb and migas a la pastora. This parador in Teruel, Spain also has a garden, a swimming pool, and a tennis court.
Even with all these amenities, it’s still one of the cheapest of Spain’s paradores, making it ideal for a weekend getaway.
15. Parador de Jaén, another one of the cheapest paradores in Spain
The Parador de Jaén is in the city of Jaén, specifically in Cerro de Santa Catalina. The hotel was built into an 18th-century castle and still preserves the original architectural structure. So, this castle parador in Spain is a beautiful representation of the Andalusian Renaissance.
Staying here is ideal for those who want to see some iconic places in the city, like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption or the Arch of San Lorenzo. The parador is visible from different points of the city, and it offers panoramic views of Jaén from its rooms. Moreover, there are natural parks and reserves nearby where you can take a walk.
The converted castle was restored but maintains all its essence since its stone walls and historical elements remain. The rooms are spacious with classical furniture and Moorish influences, so you feel like you’re staying in an 18th-century castle.
Finally, this parador in Spain has a seasonal outdoor pool, an Andalusian restaurant, and it’s one of the cheapest paradores available.
16. Parador de Segovia, another converted castle parador in Spain
The Parador de Segovia is another incredible place to stay in Spain. It’s in Segovia, one of the most monumental cities in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Unlike other paradores in Spain, this one is inside a modern building and has all kinds of facilities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and pleasant. These include a gym, outdoor pool, heated pool, sauna, and several event spaces. It also offers stunning views of the city and has a stylish restaurant specializing in local cuisine.
It is undoubtedly one of the best paradores in Segovia for travelers who want to explore this city while enjoying a relaxing getaway. Along with the beautiful facilities, there are surrounding gardens and natural spaces.
17. Parador de Sigüenza, a striking medieval parador in Spain
The Parador de Sigüenza is inside a 12th-century medieval castle with Arab and Roman roots. This historical place was home to bishops, cardinals, and kings, and it still has some traditional furniture. The preserved dining room and stately rooms host celebrations, too, making this a lovely inn to spend the night.
This is one of Spain’s paradores to consider if you want to explore the town of Sigüenza in the province of Guadalajara. You can disconnect in the hostel’s garden, on the patio, or in the 13th-century Romanesque chapel.
As for food, the parador has a restaurant serving traditional dishes as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. For all these reasons, it’s one of the best paradores in Spain overall.
18. Parador de las Cañadas del Teide, a must-see parador in Spain’s Canary Islands
The Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide is one of the best paradores in Spain in terms of location since it’s next to Mount Teide in Tenerife. The hotel offers beautiful views of the volcano and White Mountain, and it’s one of the best spots on the island for stargazing. The area has no light pollution, so this inn is one of the best places to photograph the Milky Way.
In addition to climbing Mount Teide or hiking through Las Cañadas, you can do some of the most popular excursions in Tenerife from this parador.
The hostel offers spacious and well-equipped rooms, a gym, and a restaurant that serves typical Canarian food. It also has a bar where you can order all kinds of drinks and snacks. It is undoubtedly one of the most charming of Spain’s paradores.
19. Parador de Santillana Gil Blas, another Budget-friendly parador in Spain
The Parador de Santillana Gil Blas is inside the Barreda-Bracho House in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria. This town dates back to the 8th century and was declared a National Monument and one of the most popular villages in Spain. One of the peculiarities of this place is that you can only visit the historic center on foot to preserve its originality. It is undoubtedly one of the most interesting national paradores in Spain on a historical level.
The inn is within the heart of the city and is ideal if you want to disconnect for a few days. It has cozy, well-equipped rooms and a highly-rated restaurant in the villa. There is also a bar serving drinks and snacks, so it’s a popular parador in Spain among tourists.
20. Parador de Corias, a converted monastery parador in Spain
The Parador de Corias in Cangas de Narcea, Asturias, is inside an 11th-century monastery that was declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument. Moreover, this accommodation was chosen as the Best Non-Urban Hotel in Spain by Condé Nast Traveler, which makes it one of the most interesting paradores in Spain.
Inside the hotel, there is an exhibit with the archaeological remains of the original structure, dating back to the 11th century. There are also places to visit nearby, like the Fuentes del Narcea Natural Park and Muniellos Integral Reserve. You can also see the charming town of Cangas de Narcea, which is about a mile from the inn.
As for the hostel, it offers beautiful views of the mountainous landscapes and the Narcea River. There are event rooms, spacious bedrooms with elegant details, and an on-site restaurant specializing in Spanish cuisine. You can also enjoy the spa with a sauna, Turkish bath, and heated indoor pool. Overall, this is one of the most peaceful paradores in Asturias, Spain.
21. Parador de Lleida, another highly recommended parador hotel in Spain
The Parador de Lleida is within the 17th-century Roser convent, in the heart of the city of Lleida. Nearby is La Seu Vella, the old cathedral of Lleida, which was built in the 13th century and has become a symbol of the city.
Lleida is a quiet city, ideal for disconnecting and enjoying one of the many Romanesque walking paths, wineries, and vineyards. These surroundings make this parador in Spain perfect for those seeking refuge in nature.
The 53 rooms at this parador in Lleida, Spain, surround the cloisters and have all you need for a comfortable stay. There are also meeting and event rooms, a gym, and a restaurant where you can try some regional food. Without a doubt, it’s an awesome place to stay and one of the cheapest inns in the country.
22. Parador de Lorca, another highly-recommended parador in Spain
The Parador de Lorca is one of the best paradores in Spain since staying here is like taking a trip back in time. The inn is part of the 10th-century castle of Lorca, so visiting this place is a great way to get to know Lorca.
Under the hotel, there is a maintained archaeological site that you can visit. There is also a 15th-century synagogue, an Islamic cistern, an Almohad wall, and the castle’s citadel, known as the Fortress of the Sun. All these aspects make it one of the best historical parador in Murcia, Spain.
In addition to all the cultural, historical, and artistic attractions within the castle of Lorca, the parador has a spa and an indoor pool. It also has bright, spacious rooms that are well-equipped and elegantly decorated. There is also a bar and a buffet-style restaurant where you can taste typical regional cuisine made with local products.
Not only is this hotel close to several attractions, but the city of Lorca, also known as the City of the Hundred Shields, is full of historical sites. These include Ciscar beach, which is within a protected area. So, the inn is a great parador in Spain near the beach that you can visit.
23. Parador de Bielsa, one of the best paradores in northern Spain
The Parador de Bielsa is considered one of the best paradores in northern Spain since it’s at the foot of Monte Perdido and surrounded by meadows, lakes, and nature. It’s also next to Ordesa National Park, one of the most popular national parks in Spain, making it one of the top accommodations for people who want to enjoy outdoor activities.
The hotel has numerous rooms, many of which have beautiful mountain and river views. It also has a terrace, bar, and restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best mountain paradores in Spain if you want to recharge in a natural setting.
24. Parador de Sos del Rey Católico, one of the best luxury paradores in Spain
The Parador de Sos del Rey Católico is a luxury parador in Spain inside a building that once housed the nobility. It has maintained its Aragonese style and its monumental, historical, and artistic appearance. As you can see, it’s one of the most beautiful hotels in Spain overall.
The parador is in Sos del Rey Católico, northwest of the Zaragoza province. This town was declared a Historic-Artistic Site, so it has many places of interest to visit. In addition, the small town was the birthplace of Ferdinand II of Aragon.
Here, you can dine at an elegant restaurant that serves traditional dishes and some of the best national wines. There is also a bar where you can find all kinds of drinks. If you want to enjoy history and art, this is one of the most beautiful paradores in Zaragoza, Spain.
25. Parador de La Gomera, another beautiful parador in Spain’s Canary Islands
The Parador de La Gomera is another one of Spain’s paradores in the Canary Islands. This hotel offers lovely views of the ocean, the island of Tenerife, and lush tropical gardens. It’s one of the best beach hotels in Spain.
For travelers looking for inns near a beach, this is one of the best options since La Gomera is home to Garajonay National Park and other naturally beautiful places. It’s also the best Canary Island for anyone looking to relax in an area that isn’t overcrowded with tourists.
This parador in Spain has an outdoor pool that’s open almost year-round, thanks to La Gomera’s pleasant temperatures. As for the rooms, they’re spacious, get lots of natural light, and have everything you need to make your stay comfortable.
List of paradores in Spain
This list of paradores in Spain includes 97 accommodations, not counting any that are pending inauguration or the one in Portugal. In addition to finding the 25 best paradores in Spain, you can see any others that may be along your planned route.
PARADOR | PROVINCE | INAUGURATED |
---|---|---|
A Coruña | 2020 |
|
A Coruña | 1986 |
|
A Coruña | 1960 |
|
Álava | 1978 |
|
Albacete | 1970 |
|
Alicante | 1965 |
|
Almería | 1966 |
|
Asturias | 2013 |
|
Asturias | 1998 |
|
Asturias | 1967 |
|
Ávila | 1966 |
|
Ávila | 1928 |
|
Badajoz | 1968 |
|
Badajoz | 1933 |
|
Barcelona | 1976 |
|
Barcelona | 1972 |
|
Burgos | 2003 |
|
Cáceres | 2000 |
|
Cáceres | 1989 |
|
Cáceres | 1984 |
|
Cáceres | 1966 |
|
Cáceres | 1965 |
|
Cádiz | 1966 |
|
Cádiz | 1929 |
|
Cantabria | 2004 |
|
Cantabria | 2000 |
|
Cantabria | 1966 |
|
Cantabria | 1946 |
|
Castellón | 1935 |
|
Ceuta | 1986 |
|
Ciudad Real | 1979 |
|
Ciudad Real | 1932 |
|
Córdoba | 1960 |
|
Cuenca | 1993 |
|
Cuenca | 1966 |
|
Gipuzkoa | 1968 |
|
Girona | 1966 |
|
Granada | 1954 |
|
Guadalajara | 1976 |
|
Huelva | 1968 |
|
Huelva | 1966 |
|
Huesca | 1968 |
|
Jaén | 1965 |
|
Jaén | 1965 |
|
Jaén | 1930 |
|
La Rioja | 1975 |
|
La Rioja | 1965 |
|
La Rioja | 1965 |
|
Las Palmas | 1945 |
|
León | 1964 |
|
León | 1959 |
|
Lleida | 2017 |
|
Lleida | 1980 |
|
Lleida | 1979 |
|
Lleida | 1966 |
|
Lugo | 2003 |
|
Lugo | 1967 |
|
Lugo | 1958 |
|
Madrid | 2009 |
|
Madrid | 1982 |
|
Málaga | 1994 |
|
Málaga | 1965 |
|
Málaga | 1956 |
|
Málaga | 1948 |
|
Málaga | 1940 |
|
Melilla | 1973 |
|
Murcia | 2012 |
|
Navarra | 1966 |
|
Ourense | 2015 |
|
Ourense | 2004 |
|
Ourense | 1967 |
|
Palencia | 1975 |
|
Pontevedra | 1968 |
|
Pontevedra | 1966 |
|
Pontevedra | 1966 |
|
Pontevedra | 1955 |
|
Salamanca | 1981 |
|
Salamanca | 1929 |
|
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | 1999 |
|
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | 1981 |
|
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | 1972 |
|
Santa Cruz de Tenerife | 1960 |
|
Segovia | 2007 |
|
Segovia | 1978 |
|
Sevilla | 1976 |
|
Soria | 1966 |
|
Tarragona | 1976 |
|
Teruel | 1968 |
|
Teruel | 1956 |
|
Toledo | 1968 |
|
Toledo | 1930 |
|
Valencia | 1966 |
|
Valladolid | 1958 |
|
Zamora | 1972 |
|
Zamora | 1966 |
|
Zamora | 1945 |
|
Zaragoza | 1975 |
|
LIST OF PARADORES IN SPAIN |
Each of Spain’s paradores has something that makes them unique, so even if you don’t stay in one of the inns I mentioned here, you’ll still enjoy your stay.
Map of paradores in Spain
To help you locate any of these 97 accommodations, here is a map of paradores in Spain. This way, you can quickly find all the inns by type (city, historical, or nature).
I hope this guide helps you find your perfect parador for a holiday in Spain. If you’ve stayed at one of these and want to share your experience, or you have a question, leave a comment below. Enjoy your stay, and safe travels!