Although this is not a traditional Spanish holiday, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Spain, as in most of countries, with all kinds of sweet gifts in the shape of a heart, bouquets of flowers, postcards and romantic dinners in fantastic restaurants.

Windows of shops are decorated with hearts of all shades of red and pink; bars and cafes become creative with suggestions on the theme of Valentine's Day; and many events are held throughout the country.

What is really interesting on Valentine's Day in Spain is that some regions have their own versions of the party, usually celebrated with great fanfare and special traditions.

Books and Roses in Catalonia

In Barcelona and throughout Catalonia, couples rejoice in their love on April 23 when people celebrate St. George's Day or La Diada de Sant Jordi, the national day of Catalonia. This holiday is also known as El Dia de la Rosa (The Day of the Rose) or Dia del Llibre (The Day of the Book), and the main event is the exchange of gifts, usually roses and books, hence the Catalan saying "A rose for love and a book forever".

As expected, a large number of stalls selling roses and books were installed throughout the region at this time of the year; public squares come to life with all kinds of artists; and most of bookstores and cafes organize readings.

It is also the day that the Palau de la Generalitet de Barcelona opens its doors to the public.

San Valentin Falls during the carnival season in Spain

February 14, the carnival season in Spain is in full swing, so why not get the most out of your trip to the Canary Islands, to Cadiz or Sitges, where the country's most spectacular festivites are celebrated? Expect colorful street parades, unique processions, fireworks and a lot of good times.

Día de El Corte Inglés

Convinced that this is a holiday invented to stimulate consumption, the Spaniards often call Valentine's Day as their main shopping center – Dia de El Corte Ingles (Day of Corte Ingles).

Saint Dionysius Day in Valencia

For Valencians, the most romantic day of the year is October 9th, when they celebrate both Valencian Community Day as well as the Day of Saint Dionysius (Sant Dionís), known locally as the patron saint of lovers.

This is a public party, marked by many festivites and colorful costume parades that take place on the main square of each city.

A distinctive tradition of Saint Dionysius Day is the custom to offer the ladies a Mocadora(Mocaora) as a sign of love and appreciation. This traditional gift consists of a cute package of marzipan figurines, handmade by local confectioners and then wrapped in an elegant piece of silk.

Valentine's Day or not, Spain is full of romance

Valentine's Day is a good time to visit the Land of Cervantes, but the truth is that you do not need a reason to get caught up in the fire and romance of Spain.

Take in the beauty of historic Seville from the horse-drawn carriage; stroll through the majestic Alhambra at sunset; and get lost among secret cobblestone alleys and small squares in charming villages of the country.

From stellar lunches to ancient baths, couples in colorful Barcelona await many romantic experiences, while Madrid is full of impressive parks and gardens that inspire love.

Wild and deserted beaches invite you to ride horses and take long and relaxing walks along the Atlantic, and La Rioja, with its breathtaking landscapes, vast vineyards and picturesque wineries, offers an idyllic backdrop for lovers looking for a relaxing holiday.