vs
Spain vs Italy
Spain vs Italy compared on food, cost, beaches, cities, and culture. Two of Europe's best — here's how to choose between them.
4
Spain
3
Ties
1
Italy
Food & Wine
TieTapas culture, paella, jamón ibérico, Rioja wines. Eating is social.
Pizza, pasta, gelato, espresso — Italian cuisine is a global benchmark.
Cost of Travel
Spain winsSpain is best for
- Beach holidays
- Nightlife
- Budget travel in Europe
- Long stays
Italy is best for
- Art and history
- Culinary pilgrimages
- Romantic getaways
- Fashion and design
The Verdict
Spain edges ahead on value and lifestyle, but Italy wins on art and culinary prestige. You can't go wrong with either — and you'll want to return to both.
Europe's two great rivals for the title of "best country to visit." Spain and Italy share Mediterranean warmth, incredible food, and thousands of years of history. But they feel different. Spain is relaxed, social, and stays up late. Italy is passionate, stylish, and takes its food very seriously. Both will ruin you for other countries.