What if you could spend the night in a piece of Spain’s history? That’s exactly what the Paradores offer – the chance to stay in historic buildings like castles, monasteries and palaces.
What Are Spain’s Paradores?
Spain’s Paradores are a network of state-run hotels created in 1928 and managed by the public company Paradores de Turismo de España, S.A. They turn castles, monasteries, palaces and other historic buildings into fully functioning hotels, preserving their cultural value and integrating them into the local setting.
With more than 90 locations across the country, Paradores are strategically placed in historic towns, national parks and rural areas. Part of the profits is reinvested in preserving these buildings and promoting tourism in less-visited regions, helping ensure that this heritage remains accessible for future generations.
Why stay in Paradores?
In Spain, there’s a type of travel focused entirely on these hotels. Travellers who are passionate about history, culture and comfort often plan whole itineraries around them. These routes, known as Parador tourism, attract different kinds of visitors who choose Paradores as a base to explore Spain in an authentic way, connecting with history and discovering regions that are usually off the traditional tourist track.
Most Paradores are rated as four-star hotels and offer a high standard of comfort and service, alongside their historic value. Another major draw is the food. Each Parador has its own restaurant that focuses on local cuisine, with menus that highlight regional ingredients and culinary traditions.
The Paradores Map of Spain
To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a complete map showing the location of every Parador in Spain. They’re grouped into themed categories, which make it easier to understand the type of experience each one offers. Each pin on the map includes a short description of the Parador’s highlights, its star rating (most have four stars, with a few three- or five-star properties), and an average price based on high and low seasons. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of year, special events or last-minute offers.
Castles and Fortresses
Hotels housed in former military buildings such as castles and fortresses, preserving original defensive structures and historical features.
Monasteries, Convents and Hospitals
Accommodation in historic buildings of religious or healthcare origin, maintaining their original architecture, interior layout and atmosphere.
Contemporary Architecture
Hotels built in the 20th or 21st century, selected for their more recent origin in contrast with other historic categories.
Palaces and Manor Houses
Hotels located in former noble residences, with preserved architecture, elegant interiors and a strong connection to the local history.
How to Use the Map
This map was created using Google Maps and shows all the Paradores in Spain, organised by category.
Click on the menu icon in the top corner to select the categories you want to see, such as Castles and Fortresses or Monasteries and Convents.
Click on each Parador marker to open a pop-up window with more information about that location.
Use the fullscreen icon to expand the map and explore it in more detail.
Click the star next to the map’s name to save it to your personal Google Maps and access it easily later.
Featured Paradores
We’ve selected a few unmissable Paradores located across different regions of Spain to inspire your trip:
Parador of Granada
Located within the Alhambra complex, this Parador offers the unique experience of staying inside one of Spain’s most iconic monuments, surrounded by gardens and Islamic architecture.
Parador of Santiago de Compostela
Known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, it sits next to the famous cathedral of Santiago and is considered one of the oldest hotels in the world.
Parador San Estevo
Set in a former Benedictine monastery in the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, this Parador stands out for its historic architecture and the peaceful natural surroundings.
Parador of Costa da Morte
One of the newest in the network, this seafront hotel features contemporary architecture that blends into the landscape, with stunning views of the Atlantic.
Parador of Sigüenza
Housed in a 12th-century castle, it preserves medieval features such as stone walls and grand halls, with panoramic views over the town.
How to Book a Parador
The best way to book a Parador is through the official website Paradores.es, where you’ll find full details for each hotel, real-time availability and up-to-date prices. In the interactive map included in this article, clicking on a Parador will take you directly to its official page for easy booking.
If you haven’t already, it’s worth signing up for the Amigos de Paradores loyalty programme. Benefits include a free breakfast on your first stay and a 5% discount on hotel rates when booking through the official site.
Alternatively, you can also book through platforms like Booking, which allow you to compare prices and conditions. To ensure the best options – especially during high season or special dates – it’s recommended to book in advance.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only. We have no commercial partnership with Paradores or any of the booking platforms mentioned.
Now that you’re familiar with the Paradores and how to plan your stay, use the map to organise your next trip. Staying in a Parador is a unique way to experience Spain’s history with comfort and authenticity.
Our Experience at the Parador of Santo Estevo
Curious to know what it’s really like to stay at a Parador? We’re sharing all the details of our stay at the Parador of Santo Estevo, in Galicia.