Viajar marks 45 years of guiding Spanish travel enthusiasts from a new home
Since its early transition years, Viajar has stood beside the Spanish community, helping readers understand places and people while bringing global perspectives closer to home. For many who view travel as a profound, enriching experience, the magazine has been a trustworthy guide that opens doors to diverse cultures and landscapes.
The celebration of Viajar’s 45th anniversary unfolded in an intimate outdoor evening at the Palace of the Dukes of Pastrana, a refined setting along Madrid’s Paseo de la Habana. The event drew sponsorship from the Dominican Republic, Jeep, Nautalia, and Oliva Nova, with officials, travel and cultural leaders, brand representatives, and longtime supporters gathered to honor nearly five decades of storytelling and exploration. Among the attendees were prominent actors, influencers, musicians, and creators who have contributed to the magazine’s enduring presence in the travel conversation.
A key moment of the night featured journalist Pilar Garcia Muniz introducing the proceedings, followed by remarks from Viajar’s leadership team. The headline address came from a senior figure within the Prensa Ibérica group, who expressed a clear passion for travel and highlighted tourism as a pivotal economic force recovering after disruptions. The speaker cited readership milestones and cited industry data showing travel content remains highly engaging; the message underscored how travel writing helps demystify destinations and fuels a growing appetite for experiential experiences. The success of Viajar, measured by both print circulation and digital engagement, was presented as evidence of a strong editorial path ahead for the publication.
Following the speeches, guests explored the Viajar Universe through a video retrospective that traced the magazine’s evolution over 45 years. Josep María Palau, the publication’s director, described Viajar as a welcoming home for travelers, experts, and amateurs alike to share stories from every corner of the world. The segment connected history with a modern mission: since Spain’s constitutional era, travel journalism has helped democratize discovery and broaden access to global cultures.
Palau also recognized the vital contributions of notable editors and collaborators who have shaped the magazine’s direction over the years. The team at Viajar, backed by the support of the Prensa Ibérica group, was praised for sustaining a spirit of adventure and constant, daily work that keeps the publication vibrant and relevant.
As the evening progressed, attendees enjoyed a thoughtfully curated cocktail service and live entertainment, with a range of global flavors represented in the catering. Argentine empanadas, Spanish tortillas, croquettes, Nugu Burger specialties, and red tuna prepared by a skilled sushiman highlighted the international culinary dimension of travel. A variety of regional specialties and street-food-inspired bites offered a playful tasting menu, while a 360º photo booth provided guests with a memorable keepsake from the night.
Viajar’s origin is deeply tied to Spain’s transition era. The first issue appeared in the late 1970s, under the umbrella of a broader movement that emphasized dialogue and openness. The editorial leadership at the time, alongside a publishing partner with a history in democratic discourse, steered the magazine toward a clear focus on travel narratives that combined quality writing with striking imagery. In 1978, Viajar reached newsstands as a premier travel publication renowned for its robust storytelling and a network of regular contributors who helped define its voice. The magazine later joined Grupo Zeta and launched a digital edition in the early 2000s, marking a shift toward online audiences. In 2019, Viajar became part of the Prensa Ibérica family, continuing its mission from a new home while maintaining the long-standing tradition of featured journeys, practical destination guides, and curated experiences that inspire readers to explore more of the world.
Each month, Viajar offers readers in-depth coverage of well-known destinations and hidden gems alike. The magazine combines precise, current information with immersive storytelling, helping travelers plan trips that fit varied interests, budgets, and timeframes. Collaborations with leading travel brands and experiences—from unique locales and luxury accommodations to family adventures and culinary routes—support a robust ecosystem of tourism professionals who rely on Viajar as a trusted reference. The online edition, revistaviajar.es, attracts a broad audience, with millions of digital touches from readers, social followers, and engaged communities around the globe. Through its content and community, Viajar continues to be a respected voice in travel journalism, a hub where curious minds converge to dream, plan, and embark on new journeys with confidence and curiosity.