Paradores of Spain
Experience luxury accommodation in Spain's most remarkable historic buildings. From medieval castles and ancient monasteries to Renaissance palaces and Moorish fortresses, each Parador offers a unique stay in Spain's cultural heritage.
What Are Paradores?
Paradores de Turismo de España is a state-owned chain of luxury hotels founded in 1928. These unique accommodations are typically located in historical buildings such as castles, palaces, convents, monasteries, and other buildings of significant cultural heritage.
Historical Significance
Founded by King Alfonso XIII to promote tourism and preserve Spanish heritage, the first Parador opened in 1928 in the Gredos mountains. Today, the network encompasses nearly 100 properties.
Architectural Treasures
Each Parador is unique, preserving the architectural characteristics of its original building while incorporating modern comforts. Many feature period furnishings, historical artifacts, and local artistic elements.
Parador Network Facts
Total Paradores
0+
Regions
0
First Parador
Parador de Gredos (1928)
Organization
Paradores de Turismo de España
Why Choose a Parador?
With nearly 100 historic hotels across Spain’s castles, monasteries and palaces, the state‑run Paradores network marries heritage, luxury and regional gastronomy—often in UNESCO‑listed settings.
- Live inside history: Sleep beneath centuries‑old stone vaults or Moorish arches while still enjoying modern comforts such as spas and high‑speed Wi‑Fi.
- Flavour of the region: Every Parador restaurant showcases local D.O. wines and seasonal produce, from Castilian roast lamb to Galician seafood stews.
- Sustainable stays: Profits are reinvested into restoration and reforestation projects like the nationwide Bosque Paradores initiative.
Bucket‑List Paradores
Parador de Granada – Alhambra
Spend the night inside the Alhambra complex and wake to dawn views over Nasrid courtyards and the Generalife gardens.
Parador de Santiago – Hostal dos Reis Católicos
Often cited as the world’s oldest hotel, this 15th‑century pilgrim hospital anchors the Camino’s final square.
Parador de Ronda – Málaga
Perched atop El Tajo gorge, floor‑to‑ceiling windows gaze 120 metres down to the legendary Puente Nuevo bridge.
Parador de Cardona – Catalonia
A ninth‑century fortress crowned by Romanesque chapels and crenellated towers, overlooking the Pyrenees foothills.
Booking Tips & Deals
Join the free Amigos de Paradores programme to save 5 % on direct bookings and enjoy perks like welcome drinks, late checkout and point rewards. Early‑booking rates (up to 15 % off) open seven days or more ahead, while Golden Days offers provide additional savings for travellers aged 55 +. For Easter and summer stays, aim to reserve at least three months in advance—especially along the coast and on popular pilgrimage routes.
Book Like a Local: Insider Tips & Tactics
🎯 Amigos de Paradores: The Ultimate Hack
The free Amigos de Paradores programme isn't just a 5% discount—it's your key to accessing the best-kept secrets:
- • Exclusive flash sales: Members get 48-hour early access to seasonal promotions
- • Point multipliers: Earn double points during off-peak periods (Nov-Mar, excluding holidays)
- • Free room upgrades: Available at check-in for members (request at reception, not online)
- • Late checkout until 2 PM: No questions asked vs. standard 12 PM
- • Welcome amenities: Local wine, regional specialties, or spa credits
📞 Waitlist Tactics That Actually Work
Call Strategy
- • Call individual Paradores directly (not central booking)
- • Best times: Tuesday 10-11 AM or Friday 2-4 PM
- • Ask for "lista de espera" (waitlist) even if they say full
- • Mention flexible dates (+/-2 days) for better odds
Cancellation Patterns
- • Check 7, 14, and 21 days before your dates
- • Set alerts for Thursday evenings (weekend trip cancellations)
- • Corporate bookings often cancel 48-72 hours prior
- • Weather-dependent destinations see cancellations 3-5 days out
👥 Golden Days & Hidden Discounts
Días Dorados (Golden Days 55+)
Up to 25% off Sunday-Thursday stays. Pro tip: Extends to traveling companions of any age when booking together.
Undiscovered Seasons
January 7-31: Post-holiday rates drop 30-40%. Late November: "Puente" discounts between national holidays.
Corporate Rate Hack
Ask about "tarifas empresa" if you're self-employed or have a business license—often 10-15% off standard rates.
🏰 Room Selection Gotchas
What to Request
- • "Habitación con vistas": Worth the €20-40 premium
- • Corner rooms: Usually larger with more character
- • Upper floors in towers: Best medieval atmosphere
- • Cloistered courtyards: Quieter than street-facing
What to Avoid
- • Converted stables: Often cramped with low ceilings
- • Near kitchens: Noise starts at 6 AM
- • "Standard" rooms in palace wings: May lack historic features
- • Rooms above main entrances: Late arrival noise
🚗 Parking & Arrival Secrets
🍽️ Restaurant Reservation Strategies
Book Smart
- • Reserve dinner when booking your room (not always guaranteed later)
- • Request window tables at booking (not just "mesa para dos")
- • Ask about "menú degustación" (tasting menu)—often unlisted
Avoid Tourist Traps
- • Skip the "menú turístico"—ask for "carta" (à la carte menu)
- • Order wine by the glass to sample regional D.O. selections
- • Breakfast buffets end promptly at 10:30 AM (no extensions)
Accommodation Types
Featured Paradores
Paradores by Region
Experience Spanish History Like Never Before
Paradores offer more than just accommodation; they provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Spain's rich cultural heritage, experiencing history firsthand while enjoying modern luxury and comfort.
Architectural Wonders
Stay within the walls of historic landmarks, from medieval castles and monasteries to Renaissance palaces and Arab fortresses.
Modern Comforts
Experience the perfect blend of historical authenticity and contemporary luxury, with first-class amenities and services.
Unparalleled Locations
From dramatic clifftop settings to the heart of historic cities, Paradores occupy some of Spain's most spectacular and privileged positions.