As much as there is to see and do around Mainland Spain‘s interiors, come summer, everyone is desperate to be near the sea. Spain’s southwest and northern areas border the Atlantic, but it is the impressive 1600km Mediterranean seaboard that is a hotbed for beachside activities, culinary escapades, and cultural outings. Driving around the country is an adventure best reserved for those with tons of time on their hands. Alternatively, ferry tickets to Mainland Spain, booked via Ferryscanner, are the perfect way to restfully sail around the many port towns.

Barcelona is an essential stop during any Spanish holiday. Take a walk around Antoni Gaudí’s buildings for a crash course in Modernist architecture and the power of imagination. For an even greater sensory experience, visit La Boqueria, a food market first started in 1217, bursting with a myriad of aromas as countless stalls pack in fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meats. Stop by the Picasso Museum which displays some of the artist’s lesser-known works, or tour El Poblenou and the Gothic Quarter to check out Barcelona’s street art scene.

Those who wish the escape the tourist crowds should look at smaller seaside towns past the Costa del Sol. For instance, Almeria and Motril still ooze traditional Spanish charm, with the latter having a sugar cane museum and a rum distillery. Denia has an interesting 11th-century castle on a hill and beaches like Las Marinas that are perfect for families. With its fishing boat harbor, ferry terminal, yacht marina, bars, and restaurants, the city’s port is where most people spend their evenings.

Ferry tickets to Mainland Spain from the Balearic Islands typically bring tourists to Valencia. In March, the city’s Las Fallas festival is five days of unlimited partying, dancing, parades, fireworks, and light shows. Open-minded in its attitude, Valencia is where you’ll come across the Holy Grail at Saint Mary’s Cathedral. It is also where you can also spend a day at the City of Arts and Sciences, which is a contemporary complex with an IMAX cinema, museums, aquarium, and an opera house.