Spain

The Premiership may claim to be the most exciting league in the world, Italians argue all day and night about the pre-eminence of their defence-dominated Serie A, but when it comes to the magical blend of attacking football, genuinely world-class players and exhilarating atmospheres, Spain's La Liga is out on its own.

Eto'o, Robinho, Henry, Messi, Raul, Joaquin, Villa, Aguero... the list of stars goes on and on. But there's so much more to Spanish football than galacticos. From Barcelona's awesome Nou Camp to Valencia's bouncing orange fans bringing the Mestalla so spectacularly to life, to the passionate Seville derby and the Basque battle between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad, there are dozens of unforgettable experiences to be had.

And then there's the après-football, when Spain's other tourist attractions come into their own: the miles of sandy beaches, the turquoise sea, the stunning palaces, the flamenco, the bullfighting and the crazy fiestas. Whether you're going for a weekend or for the rest of your life, we hope this guide will help you enjoy Spain, and Spanish football, in all its sun-drenched glory.