The Gaudi landmarks, towering Sagrada Familia, and lively palm-lined boardwalk straddling an azure sea—there are many reasons why Americans would put Barcelona at the top of their Spain wishlist and many reasons why they wouldn’t. Between the increased tourist phobia and rising room rates, the Catalonian hub no longer feels like the welcoming city it once was. …

Most American travelers who have visited Europe have probably spent at least some time in Spain. The country is an iconic tourist destination and is having a real moment this year, with travelers arriving in record numbers throughout summer. Many of its cities and regions are well known to American travelers, and with good reason. …