The Vuelta a España is a famous bicycle race around Spain, nowadays consisting of approximately 20 stages over a similar number of days. The race, first held in 1935, is usually run over a distance of around 3500 kilometres. Although the majority of the race takes place in Spain, some stages usually take place in other countries as well. Along with the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, the Vuelta a España is one of cycling's Grand Tours, the three most significant stage races in the world.