Spain holidays offer a good opportunity to learn more about the traditional practice of bullfighting – whether that means a tour of the bullring or witnessing a live bullfight.

The Running of The Bulls, part of the San Fermin Festival, is one of the best known events in Spain. The event is quite dangerous with young men trying to outrun a group of bulls that have been let loose on the streets. For fun and excitement, head to the San Fermin Festival which is held every July and features street parties, a firework display, procession and closing ceremony. You can book one of the many cheap holiday deals to Pamplona to join in these celebrations. The Nh El Toro Hotel is a nice, quiet hotel and being only 5k from Pamplona city center, is near all the action.

The Spanish mountain town of Ronda is a must see for those interested in bullfighting heritage. Dating back to 1785, the Ronda bullring is one of the oldest in Spain. The sandstone building is unique in that it has all the seating undercover which was a master stroke by the designer Jose Martin de Aldehuela. The modern style of bullfighting or Rondeno, where the matadors fight the bull on foot is practised here.  The legacy of the years when Pedro Romero was the Ronda’s champion bullfighter is celebrated every September at Feria Goyesca. Everyone dresses in 18th century costume from the time of Spanish painter Francisco de Goya, who famously painted a portrait of Romero.

In January 2012, the bullfighting ban will be enforced in Catalonia. Tourists wanting miles of golden beaches, come on Costa Dorada holidays whilst those preferring a rugged coastline, opt for Costa Brava holidays. The bullfighting season finishes in September so grab the chance to go and see one before they are banned. There’s a museum dedicated to bullfighting at the Plaza Monumental de Barcelona which is the only functioning bullring left in Catalonia.