Property Search

hi all

I have a couple of threads on here already but i am wandering if anybody has any idea of the best ways to search for a property.
You can find alot of websites on property but do you think it is best to just go out and visit the places your interested in?....

Or does anybody know of any good websites or estate agents?

I am looking at Spain but information on this subject will be welcomed in other european countries also

thanks

jon