As halal tourism grows globally, Spain is emerging as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination, blending centuries-old Islamic history with modern-day hospitality. For Muslim travelers, the country holds a deeper charm, one rooted in a rich Islamic heritage, growing halal-friendly infrastructure, and a conscious push for inclusivity.

In a keynote session with Irene Valencia (Spain Tourism Board), she shares how Spain is becoming a leader in halal travel experiences in Europe.

Discovering Spain’s Islamic History: Al-Andalus and Beyond

For nearly 800 years, much of the Iberian Peninsula thrived under Muslim rule. Known as Al-Andalus, this era produced advancements in architecture, science, philosophy, and culture that continue to shape Spanish identity today. For the Muslim traveler in Spain, this legacy is more than academic, it’s visible in the mosques, palaces, courtyards, and cuisine.

Cultural coexistence between Muslims, Christians, and Jews during this time gave rise to a unique architectural and spiritual heritage that can still be experienced firsthand.

Andalusia

Image credit: Quentin Martinez on Pexels

For those seeking an authentic halal travel experience in Spain, Andalusia is the ultimate destination. Cities like Córdoba, Seville, Granada, and Malaga offer living testaments to Spain’s Muslim past.

• Córdoba’s Mezquita-Cathedral remains one of Europe’s most stunning Islamic monuments.
   
• Seville’s Giralda Tower, originally a minaret, still marks the skyline of Andalusia’s capital.
   
• Granada’s Alhambra Palace stands as a masterpiece of Moorish art and architecture.
   
• Malaga, with its Mediterranean vibe, offers accessible beaches and scenic hikes like El Caminito del Rey. (Download HalalTrip’s Halal Travel Guide of Malaga here.)

Travelers can also explore the Pueblos Blancos, Andalusia’s peaceful whitewashed villages perfect for quiet reflection.

Getting to Andalusia is simple with international airports in Malaga and Seville, offering flights via hubs like Istanbul and Doha. High-speed trains connect all major cities, making Andalusia an easy starting point for a halal-friendly itinerary in Spain.

Where to stay: Try Masal Faros in Córdoba for an ambiance reminiscent of Al-Andalus or the Alanda Hotel Marbella, Spain’s first halal-certified hotel, offering alcohol-free rooms and halal cuisine.

Valencia

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Valencia, often overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona, is gaining traction among Muslim travelers in Spain for its layered history and halal-friendly offerings. Once a prominent city during Muslim rule, Valencia blends historical richness with modern attractions.

• The Old City still bears traces of its Arab quarter and Moorish architecture.
   
• The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences offers peaceful spaces for prayer and rest.
   
• Albufera Natural Park is a serene escape where travelers can enjoy halal versions of traditional paella.
   
• Costa Blanca and Peñíscola offer sun-soaked relaxation near historic sites.

Getting to Valencia is hassle-free with air links to major European and West Asian cities. The city is also served by Spain’s AVE high-speed rail network.

Where to stay: The Parador El Saler stands out for its Muslim-friendly services, including halal food on request, alcohol-free rooms, and private pool options — an increasingly sought-after feature among halal-conscious travelers.

Aragon

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Inland and slightly off the mainstream tourist trail, Aragon offers a different perspective on Islamic Spain. The region’s capital, Zaragoza, is home to the Aljafería Palace, an 11th-century Islamic fortress that echoes the splendor of Al-Andalus.

• Albarracín, a former Taifa kingdom capital, preserves both its Islamic roots and medieval charm.
   
• For Muslim nature lovers, the Pyrenees Mountains in northern Aragon offer opportunities for skiing, hiking, and forest retreats.
   
• The region’s unique Mudejar gastronomy, influenced by Islamic culinary traditions, blends spices, dried fruits, and nuts in ways that are both halal and historical.

Aragon is accessible via Zaragoza Airport, with connections to several European cities, and is also reachable via rail and car from Madrid and Barcelona.

Where to stay: Try the restored Canfranc Railway Station, now a heritage hotel, or one of the region’s many Paradores — historic buildings converted into luxury accommodations.

Halal-Friendly tourism in Spain: A government-backed initiative

Spain isn’t just resting on its Islamic history — it’s actively promoting itself as a top halal travel destination in Europe. The Spanish Tourist Office has launched several initiatives to attract Muslim travelers, particularly from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Key efforts include:

• Hosting familiarization trips for Muslim travel agencies.
   
• Organizing webinars and roadshows across Muslim-majority countries.
   
• Promoting halal certification in restaurants and hotels.
   
• Publishing halal travel guides tailored to key regions.
   
• Launching a dedicated halal tourism website for easier planning.

These efforts have made Spain one of the most Muslim-friendly destinations in Europe, combining cultural richness with practical, faith-conscious travel solutions.

Why is Spain the next big halal travel destination?

Spain is proving itself as a beacon of halal-friendly travel in Europe, not just because of its Islamic heritage, but because of its ongoing efforts to welcome Muslim travelers with intention and authenticity.

For those looking to experience halal food in Spain, halal hotels, and destinations that resonate with both history and hospitality, Spain offers more than a vacation; it offers a cultural and spiritual journey where every moment feels like a step into a shared past and a welcoming present.

Watch the full panel on YouTube here.

To see more of the Halal In Travel Global Summit 2025 sessions, please visit this page.