One of the top ten tourist destinations in Europe, Spain has everything a traveler might need - high snowy mountain peaks and beaches with generous sun, lush continental fields and emerald islands, amazing architecture from ancient and present times, vibrant modern cities and laid back historic sites, various cultural events and silent museums. All provinces of Spain have their unique background and culture, which makes this country an even more appealing place to visit. Some of the must-visit places of interest in Spain are Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cadiz, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Santander, Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Marbella, Cordoba, and Alicante. Accommodation in Spain varies a lot and will satisfy any budget and taste. Travelers looking for high international standards will discover them at the classic hotels in the major tourist destinations. Family hotels in Spain and guest houses are often referred to as hostales and pensiones. Another typical form of a hotel in Spain is the so called parador - a state-owned hotel occupying a building of historic importance. In the countryside and the Spanish coast the holiday villas for rent are quite popular.