non tourist destinations in spain

Hidden Gems of Spain: 33 Detour-Worthy Places

With my unhealthy obsession with Spain and secret places, this kind of post just had to be published. I’m always searching for the best hidden gems of Spain, and my bucket list keeps growing every single day (no jokes).

This country is much more surprising than most people give it credit for, so I hope this list will make you say, “I’ve never heard of these places, but now I really want to go!”.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Hidden Gems of Spain’s Mainland

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Acebuchal  is a tiny village located in the mountains of southern Spain. It was actually abandoned for more than 50 years during the Spanish Civil War and only recently rebuilt in the early 2000s.

Today, Acebuchal has become a small tourist attraction and day-trip destination. It’s known for its beautiful hikes and fascinating scenery, and of course, the iconic white houses that make it stand out.

Come here for lunch in the village restaurant which offers homemade bread and a cold drink after a long day out in the sun, which will surely make you fall in love with this beautiful Spanish hidden gem.

By Flor and Juan from  Ruta del Mate

Heading away from the Mediterranean coast towards the interior of the Valencian Community lies Bocairent.

The first thing you’ll notice before arriving is that the village is nestled on a hill, with a succession of houses, one on top of the other, crowned by the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption.

With such a postcard scene in front of you, it’s natural to wonder about the best place from which to enjoy these breathtaking views. There will be time to stroll through its Moorish-style alleyways, plant and flower-filled streets, and curious rock caves.

So although there are a couple of viewpoints, approach the cemetery on the route without fear. Descend the path behind it, and the views become even better. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most amazing hidden places in Spain that will be a surprise on your trip.

By Irene from Piggy Traveller

Granadilla  became a ghost town in the sixties when residents were forced out after most of the land was expropriated to build a reservoir.

While there are no restaurants, no shops, and nowhere to stay the night (it’s a ghost town after all), it’s an incredible little place to visit (for free!) if you are in northern Extremadura.

As the town is mostly surrounded by water, there’s only one road in and out of it. The main highlights are the castle and the city wall. From the castle tower, you’ll have amazing panoramic views of the nearby reservoir and across Granadilla of both old ruins and renovated houses.

Walk along the city wall, lose yourself amongst the ruins, and don’t miss the Casa de las Conchas (‘House of the Shells’) in the main square.

Northern Extremadura is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets for travelers and an excellent place for road trips, birdwatching, and wild swimming. 

Within half an hour by car from Granadilla, you can visit the Roman city of Cáparra and Hervás, which has one of Spain’s best-preserved Jewish quarters.

Villajoyosa

By Martina from  Places of Juma

Villajoyosa   is a real insider’s tip for visiting the best non touristy places in Spain. This colorful city is located in the center of Costa Blanca and is therefore not far from the main tourist hot spots Benidorm and Alicante.

The colorful townhouses, the lovely old town, and the many beaches around make this place a unique spot along the Spanish coast.

Directly in front of the old town is the main beach Playa la Villajoyosa, a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Just behind there is the picturesque seafront promenade, with its many colorful little houses, where you can find some cozy local restaurants and cafes.

How much do you know about the region of Navarra?

Apart from the city of Pamplona, the town of Tudela, and the Royal Palace of Olite, Navarra remains one of the most underrated places in Spain. So if you do decide to visit it, add the medieval town of Artajona to your itinerary.

Not only is Artajona one of the best-preserved walled towns in Navarra, but it was also its own kingdom for a few years in the 12th century.

On your visit, admire the Cerco de Artajona (medieval fortifications), Iglesia de San Saturnino, and Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Jerusalén.

Buitrago Del Lozoya

With so many fantastic cities and towns near Madrid , it’s easy to overlook the lesser-known Buitrago del Lozoya. Within a 90-minute bus ride, you can get to this charming place, where once Jews, Christians, and Muslims used to co-exist.

Some of the things you can’t miss in this town include the Moorish walls, the 15th-century Buitrago del Lozoya Castle, the 14th-century Church of Santa Maria del Castillo, and the Picasso Museum, which houses a collection of original works by the artist.

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, you can also take a few easy hikes like Senda del Embalse de Riosequillo and Senda de las Gariñas.

El Burgo de Osma

By Julie from  Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal

El Burgo de Osma is a delightful small town in the province of Soria in Spain, about a 3-hour drive from Salamanca.

Within the medieval walls lies a cluster of stone and timber buildings spreading out around the focal point, which is the cathedral.

One of the many treasures inside the cathedral is the  Mapamundi , a primitive and fascinating map of the world as it was imagined in 1086.

The town itself is lovely to walk around, both inside and outside the walls, and you’ll undoubtedly end up doing a spot of people-watching in the atmospheric Plaza Mayor.

If you want to explore the beautiful countryside, drive to Rio Lobos Canyon to go for a hike and spot vultures.

By Cristina Reina from My Little World of Travelling

Antequera is often an overlooked town in Southern Spain, but it has plenty of things to offer – from historical places to beautiful and lively squares and restaurants.

This enchanting town is a great  day trip from Malaga  as it’s only a 45-minute drive from the city.

A must-see attraction in Antequera is the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress that was built in the 14th century. Not only does this place have an outstanding interior and architecture but also has Antequera’s best view.

Another place you can’t miss during your visit is a trip to Antequera Dolmens Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes three impressive cultural monuments as well as two mountains.

Lastly, when visiting Antequera, you don’t want to miss out on trying  mollete , delicious soft bread filled with a filling of your choice.

Roman Ruins of Acinipo

By Joanna from Andalucia in my Pocket 

The Roman Ruins of Acinipo  are one of Southern Spain’s most amazing hidden gems. Located close to Ronda, the ruins are free to visit but don’t see many visitors at all. Usually, you will have the entire site to explore just for yourself.

Acinipo used to be a prosperous Roman city, home to over 4,000 people. Located at a crossroads between Sevilla, Cordoba , and the coast, Acinipo traded with the nearby cities.

Traces of fish have been discovered here, meaning that the city was well connected with the coast. The city flourished for two centuries before Ronda was built.

On top of the hill, you will find one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in Spain. Behind it, the panorama of the rolling hills on one side and the mighty peaks of the Sierra de Grazalema National Park on the other will leave you breathless.

El Melero Meander

Located in the undiscovered region of Extremadura, El Melero Meander is yet another proof that Spain is full of surprises and is home to almost every type of scenery.

Formed by the Alagon River, this meander can easily be viewed from the Mirador de La Antigua (La Antigua lookout point), which you can reach by car.

Many of Catalunya’s medieval villages are hidden gems, and a visit-worthy tiny one of them is Rupit.

From its narrow streets with stone houses to the surrounding natural scenery (including the largest waterfall in the region, Salt de Sallent), don’t hesitate to add this spot to your Catalunya road trip itinerary.

Cazorla Natural Park

By Linn from Andalucia Hiking

Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park is one of Spain’s best kept secrets. With an abundance of wildlife, peaks, and waterfalls, this is one of the most beautiful parts of the south. It’s also surrounded by whitewashed villages and medieval castles.

The natural park is best explored by car and can easily be reached from Jaen, Granada, and Malaga. Make sure you walk through Rio Borrosa in Arroyo Frio and the  Rio Cerezuelo trail in Cazorla  for the best waterfalls.

When visiting the park, the village of Cazorla is a good place to stay as there is a lot to do within walking distance from it.

Cies Islands

If you’re looking for a piece of paradise where you can both soak up the sun and enjoy the most magnificent views, the Cies Islands are for you.

Within only a 30-minute ferry ride from the city of Vigo (or the towns of Baiona and Cangas), you’ll get to this dreamy place, which is one of the most stunning spots in northern Spain .

Beyond sunbathing on one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, Rodas Beach, you can also dive around the islands and take a few scenic hikes that will blow your mind (don’t miss the Alto del Príncipe Route).

Royal Palace of El Pardo

There’s no shortage of amazing royal residences in Spain, but have you heard of the Royal Palace of El Pardo?

Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, this Renaissance-style palace is nestled in the forested area of El Monte de El Pardo, surrounded by roughly 16,000 hectares of woodland. 

Throughout the years, it served as a hunting lodge, a winter palace of the Spanish monarchs, and even as the official residence of General Francisco Franco.

Inside, you’ll get to marvel at its extravagant interior decor, including its furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, paintings, tapestries, and elaborate frescoes.

The palace is located less than a 45-minute bus ride away from Madrid’s center, and you can  purchase your tickets here .

Campo de Criptana

Travelers who want to see the famous windmills of Castilla-La Mancha mentioned in Don Quixote usually visit the town of Consuegra.

But a 90-minute train ride will get you from Madrid to Campo de Criptana, which is home to the windmills that are actually the ones that inspired Miguel de Cervantes.

While in town, you can also visit the Eloy Teno Museum, wander through the Albaicin neighborhood with its white-and-blue painted houses, and tour a few wineries.

By Milijana from World Travel Connector

Postcard-perfect Iznájar in Andalucia is one of the most beautiful traditional ‘ pueblos blancos ‘ and one of the  best places to visit in southern Spain . It sits on a dreamy hill overlooking the lovely Iznájar lake and nearby Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park.

Typical white Andalusian homes with pretty private gardens, charming narrow streets traditionally decorated with gorgeous flowers, an old Moorish castle, and the 16th-century Iglesia de Santiago dominate the architecture of magical Iznájar.

Take your swimming suit with you and enjoy the Iznájar lake, and don’t forget to take your hiking shoes to explore the trails of Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park!

The picturesque Iznajar is about 90 km from Malaga and 100 km from Cordoba. It is a must-see in southern Spain for all travel enthusiasts who appreciate authenticity, hidden gems, and unspoiled nature.

Butron Castle

Situated only a 20-minute drive away from Bilbao, you don’t want to miss the fairytale-like Butron Castle, one of the best secret places to visit in Spain.

Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, but the current building was constructed in the 19th century and inspired by Bavarian castles.

Although it does not offer guided tours inside it at the moment, its picture-perfect exterior and gardens will surely win you over.

Vall de Nuria

By Renee from Dream Plan Experience

Perfect for nature lovers as it offers the most incredible views of deep narrow gorges, rocks, rivers, and trees, you have to  go hiking in Vall de Núria . Located between the Pyrenees mountains, you will be surrounded by peaks of almost 3,000 meters.

The valley has a long, fascinating history that dates back to 700 AD. Visitors can learn about the legendary tale of this sacred place and visit the original church and pilgrim hostel from centuries ago.

Arrive by car or train to the village of Queralbs. From there, take a rack railway that takes you up an incline through unspoiled mountain landscape views.

By Alexa from 52 Perfect Days

One of the most beautiful places to holiday in Spain is the coastal  town of Llafranc .

It is located in the province of Girona in the Costa Brava region and is easily accessible from Barcelona . It has small fisherman villages, long and winding roads, old houses, and beautiful seaside views.

Llafranc was colonized and occupied by the Romans during the 4th century AD, so on a visit to Llafranc, make time to explore the remains of the Roman archaeological civilization.

In the remains, you can see what used to be a winery, the church of Santa Rosa, and even some of the oldest houses in Llafranc. Excavations in this area have uncovered some of the oldest homes of the civilization.

There are 4 ways to get from Barcelona to Llafranc; by train, taxi, bus, or car. Llafranc is just 80 miles (128 km) from Barcelona and a quick 1.5-hour drive.

Fuensaldaña

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

It’s easy to expect that most will have the fairytale Alcazar of Segovia on their  travel bucket list , but if you’re looking for a castle just as stunning and without the crowds, Fuensaldaña is the right place.

Located just 10 kilometers outside of Valladolid, this town only counts about 2,000 inhabitants but houses a 15th-century royal fortress in the form of a storybook castle, with a drawbridge, watchtowers, and machicolations. It’s also one of the cradles of rosé wine, with the Cigales designation of origin.

It’s almost impossible to reach by public transport, so the easiest way is by taxi. They’re so happy to see interest in their heritage, that it’s going to be much cheaper than you might think to get one to take you there and wait for you.

By Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

Mataro is truly one of the best hidden gems in Spain!

Located less than an hour north of Barcelona, Mataro is a small coastal town with its own fantastic beaches, restaurants, and neighborhoods waiting to be explored by travelers.

It’s such a great place to visit because it’s less busy than other places in the area and allows you to explore a smaller town in the country. Plus, it’s one of the  best day trips from Barcelona .

Some of the must-do activities here include relaxing at Mataro Beach or grabbing churros with chocolate from Xurrerria Rosita. The easiest way to get there is to get yourself to Barcelona and then either rent a car or take a bus to Mataro.

By Sojourner from  Sojournies

Wine, pinchos, and the Spanish countryside, what else could you need?

Well, located an hour and a half south of Bilbao, you will find just that in Spain’s wine region La Rioja and its capital Logroño. The city itself is accessible via bus or train from Madrid (roughly 4 hours).

A walkable city known for its pinchos on Calle Laurel, Logroño gives you a taste of local culture with tourists hiking the Camino de Santiago sprinkled in between.

There are also many wineries you can visit in Logroño. However, if you take the bus or rent a car, you can visit a few more in the surrounding towns such as Laguardia. El Fabulista, Marques de Riscal, and Vivanco are a few top wineries, but the list goes on and on!

By Theo from Waffles and Lamingtons

With its narrow twisting streets, colorful buildings, and fortified walls, you’ll find nothing like Albarracin across all of Spain.

It is located in the province of Teruel, a 40-minute drive from the city of Teruel or a 2-hour drive from Valencia, making it a great addition to your Spanish road trip . There is also a single bus a day from Teruel to Albarracín from Monday to Saturday.

Though the region was originally populated during the Roman Times, the city that is now settled on the hillside was built in the early 11th Century under the Arab denomination, giving an architectural style that differs from other villages in Spain.

Albarracin is regularly nominated as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

Some of the highlights that aren’t to be missed include the Plaza Mayor, Catedral de Albarracin, Albarracin Castle, The City Wall, and of course, spending time getting lost amongst the winding streets.

More details on exploring Albarracin can be found at  ‘Albarracin: Guide to Exploring the Authentic City’.

Ciudad Encantada

While locals might be familiar with this unique geological site near the city of Cuenca, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of it, so it’s a good place to start when exploring the off-the-beaten-path Spain.

Located in the Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park, the Ciudad Encantada is a natural space home to unusual rock formations dating back millions of years ago.

With a short circular route, you can explore it on your own or book a guided tour to learn more about its origins, flora, and fauna.

Vall de Gallinera

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

To get totally off the beaten path as you  tour Spain in a campervan , head inland from the high-rises of Costa Blanca to the authentic and beautiful Vall de Gallinera.

Just an hour from Alicante and even less from the excesses of Benidorm, this tranquil valley in the Marina Alta is spectacular.

With high rugged walls and fantastic rock formations to the south and sloping green mountains to the north, this valley epitomizes Spain.

An important cherry, almond, orange, and olive growing district, the valley is home to eight villages – Benirrama, Beniali, Benissiva, Benitaia, Carroja, Alpatro, Llombai, and Benissili.

The ‘Beni’ prefix comes from the days of Moorish occupation and means ‘son of’. There is also a fabulous full-day walk that weaves between the villages, typical white-painted houses, and terraced fields of fruit trees.

If you’re a keen road cyclist, some of the best teams in Europe train here, and if you just want some incredible views, head for La Forada, at the top of the valley – a huge rock archway that can be seen for miles. The views from there to the coast are truly spectacular.

By Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Juzcar is a great place to visit to explore Spain off the beaten track.

It is always interesting to find a populated town in an isolated area of the mountains, but what makes Juzcar a wonderful place to see is that the whole town is colored in blue and is officially known as the Smurfs village.

The best part is that you can visit Juzcar on a  day trip from Malaga . Some of the things to see and do here include hiking trails, culinary tours, outdoor adventures, and cultural excursions.

Tip: Do not forget to try their regional Andalusian food and absorb the original Andalusian charm.

Isla Canela

By Anuradha from  Country Hopping Couple  

Isla Canela is a natural island located south of Ayamonte and is a hidden gem in the Andalucia region of Spain. It sits next to the Guadiana River which separates Portugal and Spain.

Due to its proximity to Portugal, Isla Canela is a popular beach holiday destination among the locals. That said, the island is still an offbeat place in Spain and is unexplored by international travelers.

Apart from having a stunning coastline and the best sandy beaches (EU blue flag status), Isla Canela being based in the river basin is surrounded by natural wetlands and is a paradise in itself.

There are plenty of walking trails that take you through salt marshes and wetlands. It is also one of the best places to let the day go by and watch the sunset by the sea.

Montgo Natural Park

By Jori from The Tejana Abroad

Montgó Natural Park is the perfect place to enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. It is located near Denia, a small town between Alicante and  Valencia , which is a great place to visit by itself.

From the town of Denia, you can enjoy amazing views of Montgó, but it’s even better when you enter the park and explore it yourself. There are several different hiking trails at every difficulty level and many with stunning views of the sea.

In one section of the park, you can also visit Les Rotes, which are amazing caves on the sea with cool, refreshing water.  

Denia is best reached by car from Alicante or Valencia, although some buses run to the city center from both cities. From there, you can take a bus to the park’s entrance, although renting a car will be much easier.

By Lavina from Continent Hop

When people think of a trip to Spain, they’re mostly thinking of a road trip through Andalucia or a coastal getaway in Catalunya.

However, Northern Spain with cities like  Santander  is perfect for people looking for a hidden city break, mild weather, and lots to do.

In Santander, there are numerous pubs serving some of the best tapas in the country. The beaches are ideal not just for walks and dips but also for surfing. About 2 hours away, you can also go skiing and hiking in the Picos De Europa National Park.

The city is also budget-friendly and has excellent architecture and museums to explore on a rainy day. It is well connected to most major airports and can also be reached by train from other Spanish cities. You could also get here by ferry.

Read more about Valencia:

• Free things to do in Valencia
• Alternative things to do in Valencia
• Valencia travel tips
• Las Fallas festival guide

Read more about Madrid:

• Non touristy things to do in Madrid
• 2 days in Madrid
• 4 days in Madrid
• Famous Madrid landmarks
• Madrid travel tips
• Best areas to stay in Madrid
• Madrid packing list
• Breakfast and brunch in Madrid
• Walking tours in Madrid
• Free museums to visit in Madrid
• Fun facts about Madrid
• Is Madrid worth visiting?

Spain off the Beaten Path: Underrated Places on Its Islands

Cuevas dels hams.

By Ania from The Travelling Twins

Cuevas dels Hams is one of the most beautiful caves in Mallorca.

It’s located just before Porto Cristo and can be a great alternative to the famous Cuevas del Drach (especially if you’re looking for something less crowded but still get a chance at exploring some interesting rock formations).

The cave took its name from stalagmites that resemble fish hooks – ham means fishing hook in Catalan! It contains various rooms and an underground lake with an incredible music show and time-lapse projections on the walls called Digithams.

A visit to one of the most intriguing places amongst Spain’s hidden gems, Cuevas dels Hams, will definitely be one of your favorite stops on a  family holiday in Mallorca . 

Jardines de Alfabia

When visiting Mallorca, a popular attraction is taking the vintage train from Palma to the town of Soller. Instead of booking a round trip, do yourself a favor and get back to Palma by bus (204), stopping at the Moorish-era Alfabia Gardens.

The complex not only includes beautiful gardens, which boast a harmonious scenery of palm trees, ponds, fountains, shrubs, and flowers (and much more), but also a villa decorated in several styles.

One of the highlights of this place is the charming open-air cafe area, which overlooks the garden.

More on Mallorca:

• Free things to do in Palma de Mallorca
• Cafes in Palma de Mallorca
• Hidden gems in Mallorca
• 1 week in Mallorca
• Is Mallorca worth visiting
• Mallorca packing list

Espalmador Island

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Situated a stone’s throw from Formentera, the tiny island of  S’Espalmador  is an uninhabited oasis in the Mediterranean . Privately owned but publicly accessible, it’s a popular day trip from the smallest Balearic Island or its larger sibling Ibiza.

A quick boat trip from the port in Formentera will have you at the island in just half an hour. Once you arrive, there’s little to do but swim, sunbathe, and take a leisurely walk in your exquisite surroundings.

The expansive main beach where you’ll arrive will captivate you with its pink sand and crystalline waters. You can also trek to the other side of the island to find a sandy cove that’s even more tranquil and serene.

On the way back, jump off the ferry at Ses Illetes beach and enjoy a meal beachside at the Es Minister bar.

Masca Valley

By Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

Masca Valley is a hidden gem in Spain located in Tenerife, a beautiful island part of the Canary Islands. Masca is a little village nestled in a narrow valley within the Teno Massif.

Thanks to an exceptionally scenic location, Masca Valley is one of the  most Instagrammable places in Tenerife !

One of the best things you can do in the Masca Valley is to admire the scenic views. It’s especially beautiful at sunset! Take the time to wander in the village, and a few restaurants are available here if needed. You can also hike down the Masca Gorge!

Masca Valley is located in the northwest of Tenerife, so the best way to get there is by car as it’s quite remote.

Read more about Spain:

• Spain travel tips
• Novels set in Spain
• Spain themed gifts
• Virtual tours of Spain
• Travel quotes in Spanish
• Spain travel quotes
• Famous monuments in Spain
• Long weekend in Spain

Related posts:

• Hidden gems in Portugal
• Hidden gems in Budapest
• Hidden gems in southern Italy
• Hidden gems in northern Italy
• Hidden gems in Turin
• Hidden gems in Milan
• Hidden gems in Puglia

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Off The Beaten Path in Spain | 15+ Non-Touristy Places in Southern Spain

Barcelona? Amazing! Madrid? Cool city! But there is so much more that Spain has to offer. So join me in this off the beaten path in Spain trip :-)!

The definition of off the beaten path refers to something or somewhere that is out of the way or out of a central, popular or touristy area | by yourdictionary.com

Because I love doing things a bit differently, I put together this amazing list of unknown places to visit in the south of Spain for you! Some of these places you may have heard off, some places will be completely new to you 🙂 Lots of fellow travel bloggers helped me with their input to make this an awesome and complete list – make sure to check out their pages as well for great info on traveling in Spain!

What's coming up

• 1 Why go off the beaten path in Spain?
• 2 Off the beaten track by car or campervan
• 3 15+ Non-Touristy Places in Southern Spain
• 7 Cabo de Gata
• 12 Antequera
• 13 Mijas Pueblo
• 14 Setenil de las Bodegas
• 15 Grazalema
• 18 Jerez de La Frontera
• 19 Chipiona
• 21 Guadelupe
• 22 Off the beaten path in Spain: tours of South Spain

Why go off the beaten path in Spain?

While on our roadtrip through the south of Spain with our campervan , I noticed that we were looking more and more for non-touristy places to park up and enjoy the surroundings. The bigger cities were a nightmare to park in (let alone camp!) and a drain to our minimal vanlife budget. Although Valencia, Alicante, Seville, Granada and Malaga are amazing places to visit, we were looking for more undiscovered places in the south of Spain. This way we would be more relaxed, our budget would go a longer way and we would experience the “real” Spain, instead of only the touristic highlighs.

Off the beaten track by car or campervan

Going off the beaten track in Spain is best done by car or campervan. If you live within Europe you can take your own car, or rent a car at one of the local airports (in winter this is ridiculously cheap!).

When you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll most likely fly into one the main airports in Spain (Barcelona or Madrid). You can either rent a car here or somewhere close. Both cities have excellent train connections, so if you want to hire a car or campervan more in the south that shouldn’t be a problem either!

15+ Non-Touristy Places in Southern Spain

Alrighty! Got your 4×4 ready? (alright no 4×4 necessary 😛 ) Here we go! I’m taking you on a trip from the Costa Blanca, all the way along the coast and the mountains towards the Portuguese border, to end up in the Extremadura just underneath Madrid! Enjoy the ride 🙂 p.s. Of course you can squeeze some amazing cities like Murcia, Malaga, Granada and Seville in your itinerary, no one would blame you 😉

In the shadows of Alicante, Elche is definitely one of the most underrated cities in Spain.

The main attraction here is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palmeral, or Palm Grove. As the name suggests, the Palm Grove is an enormous collection of date palm orchards, covering an incredible 3.5 square kilometres. Altogether, there’s 97 separate orchards in the area, totalling around 70,000 trees. As you’d expect, it’s one of the largest palm groves in the world, and the only palm grove in Europe. It’s believed that the first trees were planted in around 500 BC by Phoenician traders from modern day Lebanon, and the gardens were greatly expanded by both the Romans and the Moors when they ruled Spain.

Elche is pleasant to visit year-round, with a typical southern Spanish climate: hot and dry summers, temperate and mostly dry winters. Shoulder seasons like spring and autumn are generally the best. As a small town, a day or two is enough to fully appreciate what Elche has to offer, though if you really like immersing yourself in local culture it’s a great place to do so! Access is very easy, thanks to Elche’s proximity to the tourist haven of Alicante. There’s a nearby international airport, good Renfe train connections, plenty of buses, and the nearby A7 freeway as well. If you’re after visiting some World Heritage Sites in other parts Spain , Elche is a good place to start!

Contributed by Joel from World Heritage Journey

If you want to go off the beaten path in Spain, this is definitely a good destination! Moving a bit further inland from Elche, Pinoso is a small town (8000 inhabitants), about 40 minutes inland from Alicante. There is about a 1000 foreigners living in and around the town but it’s predominantly visited by Spanish tourists.

What you can do in town? Well, eat and drink! Pinoso is famous for its gastronomy and sits smack in the middle of amazing wineries! The town counts 5 bodegas and within 30 minutes drive you will find another 100! The region is famous for the Monastrell grape which thrives in hot, dry areas. Pinoso is worth a day trip or a stop-over on your road trip through Spain. A perfect itinerary for the day would be to spend your morning visitig one of the local wineries of Pinoso such as the Bodegas Pinoso . Then have a true Spanish Paella with local wine in one of the local excellent restaurants and afterwards (count on 5pm or later!) enjoy a drive through the surrounding area (tip: come in February when the almond blossoms make everything SO beautiful!)

Almería is not a city that’s standard on everyone’s list of things to do in Spain. It does, however, make for a great day-trip and stop-over on your roadtrip! Almeria is a city full of history! One of the most popular and most visited sites is the Alcazaba. Out of all the things to do in Almeria, this is a definite highlight! You can walk along the castle walls, enjoy shady courtyards and the gardens and explore the bathing areas. You could spend a fine morning roaming about the Alcazaba and enjoy all the details and views. And a bonus: visiting this awesome historic site is for free for EU citizens and even on beautiful sunny Sundays, there were no waiting lines!

When you’re done at the Alcazaba, you can head to the city centre for some tapas. Spend the afternoon strolling through the city and enjoy the beautiful cathedral and the central market which are both worth a visit.

Cabo de Gata

Located just outside Almería, Cabo the Gata is a stunning natural park lined with volcanic rock situated on the edge of the beach. The natural park is easily explored by car, and a lot of hiking trails are really well indicated. In the nearby area, you can find various other small villages and towns such as Níjar and Las Negras which offer a network of beaches and footpaths that connect all the towns and pueblos together. In these lovely small towns you’ll meet locals and can practice your  Spanish conversation skills as you connect with a different pace of Spanish life.

The road towards Cabo de Gata is already a highlight by itself! It’s really like being in a cowboy movie when you’re driving through sort of a Wild West film set on the way to the beach. The climate around this area is one of the driest in Europe so be sure to carry adequate sun protection and bring enough water, especially in the hot months of July and August!

Contributed by Danel from Layer Culture

From the culture and beaches of Almería, we’re heading even more off the beaten track all the way up to Trevelez. Trevelez is a tiny tiny town in the Alpujarras, the lower part of the Sierra Nevada and it’s absolutely worth visiting if you like Jamon Serrano. Trevelez is known for it’s amazing ham that is cured in the dry mountain air. The town is also the base for some amazing hiking routes and is a great stop-over for anyone wanting to visit some undiscovered places in Spain.

You can visit all throughout the year, but be aware that Trevelez lies quite high up the mountains! With snow, the place may become very hard to reach and it will be freezing! Also shops and restaurants are on limited opening hours in winter – call ahead to make sure places you want to visit are open! In summer (and especially on weekends) Trevelez can feel a bit crowded with some touring cars dropping in during the day. If you spend the night, you will appreciate the quietness and non-touristy feel of the town 🙂

Monachil is a destination that is often overlooked, but it is absolutely stunning to visit. Located outside Granada, this quaint town is home to a few great local restaurants and cafes, a garden in the city center, and the trailhead for a jaw-dropping hike.

The main reason people visit Monachil is that it is the trailhead for Los Cahorros hike . This wonderful hike takes you up a canyon, crossing multiple times on beautiful swing bridges, and back to a beautiful waterfall. This area attracts climbers as well, so if you enjoy climbing, this is the place to be.

Downtown Monachil is extremely cute. Other than hiking, you can walk the city streets, grab an ice cream cone, and have a glass of wine on the patio of a local bar. The town is so relaxed, it even has a beautiful co-managed garden in the center of town for you to enjoy. 

Contributed by Zach & Julie from Ruhls of the Road

Nerja is one of the most scenic little towns in Southern Spain. Often overlooked, it attracts visitors with plenty of intriguing sights. There’s the Nerja Cave, the Europe Balcony (often referred to as the best view in Europe) and of course all its white-washed houses. Not to mention all the tapas bars that are awaiting you.

Nerja is the perfect place to relax: wander through the cobblestone streets, have a café con leche with views on the Europe Balcony and relax on some of the beaches close by. Nerja is close to Malaga and therefore many people put it on their Malaga Itinerary .

The best time to visit is in spring or in autumn when the temperatures are still bearable. It’s recommended to stay at least half a day and if you visit the Nerja caves, calculate at least 1 day. Tip: combine Nerja with a quick stop in Frigiliana, one of the prettiest white villages in Costa del Sol.

Contributed by Paulina from Paulina On The Road

Iznajar is a charming village located in the province of Córdoba in Andalucia, about 1 hour from Málaga by car. It’s located on top of a rocky outcrop from where you can see the largest reservoir in Andalucia, namely the Embalse de Iznájar. From the top of the castle, you can enjoy magnificent views of the natural scenery and stroll through historic alleys. Nearby the castle, you can visit the wonderful big outdoor patio. It is full of blue pots on the white house walls and is one of the most picturesque scenes in all of southern Spain. Good thing: only a few tourists know about this place!

The town itself is quite small with very steep hills. That’s why it’s recommended to have good walking shoes when exploring Iznájar. The best time of the year to visit is right before the summer season or after to avoid the hottest days of the year. A day trip is enough to enjoy Iznájar. Nearby, you also find El Torcal, which is a spectacular natural wonder some 30 minutes away.

Contributed by Christine from Christine Abroad

Antequera is located about 1-hour north of Málaga in southern Spain. It’s quite the hidden gem despite it strategic position in the country and the railway run from Madrid to Málaga running through!

Nearby natural wonder El Torcal de Antequera draws mosts tourists, but the city itself features several historic sites as well! You can enjoy the Alcazaba of Antequera, which is an old Moorish castle. Additionally, there are numerous beautiful churches in the town. Above all: Antequera is a great place to experience the real Spain without too many tourists.

There are also two Bronze Age burial mounds, known as the Dolmen de Menga and the Dolmen de Viera. These are some of the largest of such structures in all of Europe. They are inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2016.

Parador de Antequera is a beautiful hotel with a great location. A 2-3 day trip to Antequera is perfect, although a day trip is also worth doing! The best way to get to Antequera is by car or train. There is a central parking garage where you also get a fantastic view of the city. 

Contributed by Alexander from Gourmand Trotter

Mijas Pueblo

Mijas Pueblo is a cosy little town located in the mountains, just half an hour southwest of ever-popular Malaga. It’s one of the pretty white villages of Andalusia, complete with winding cobblestone streets and cute little bars and restaurants. In several places around town, you’ll find stunning views of the Costa del Sol. Luckily on hot days, you’ll get a much welcome relief from the sun in the narrow alleyways.

Mijas Pueblo is a small town but it is entirely possible to get lost in the charming old quarters. One of our favourite  inspirational travel quotes  goes:  “When you see a fork in the road, take it”  and we really had a great time practicing that in Mijas Pueblo. You’ll feel taken back in time as you explore the antique streets. And when you get tired of walking, why not check out one of the many local art galleries and craft shops? 

During summer, it can get rather hot in the area (which goes for all of southern Spain), so you might be better off with a visit during spring or fall. If you do happen to drop by on a hot summer day, you’ll be glad to learn that Mijas Pueblo is just 10 kilometres from the seaside town of Fuengirola. A good suggestion: base yourself down there at sea level and visit the beautiful village on a day trip instead. You’ll surely have a wonderful time. Enjoy!

Contributed by Nick from The Danish Nomads

Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas is a magical town in the Spanish province of Cádiz. It is known for its white-washed houses that are built into and around the cliffs above the Rio Trejo. One of the pueblos blancos (or white villages), Setenil de las Bodegas is a wonderful destination to visit in spring. This is when the lush landscapes and olive groves around the village are in full bloom.

Visitors can walk around the meandering streets of Setenil de las Bodegas, admiring and taking photographs of the vast rocky overhangs and cave-like dwellings that make this town so special.

In addition to the unique layout of the town, Setenil de las Bodegas is also famed for its excellent produce and cuisine. Here you find some of the best chorizo, pastries and local veg in the land! It’s a top spot for both photographers and foodie lovers and makes a wonderful off the beaten path in Spain weekend trip .

There are various towns in the region that could be used as a base for exploring some of the  pueblos blancos  . Think of Setenil de las Bodegas, which include Ronda, Olvera, and Zahara de la Sierra. Staying in one of these towns allows you to explore the villages as well as enjoying some hiking in the nearby area. Please note you will need your own car to get around!

Contributed by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Grazalema is a small town nestled in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in the province of Cadiz. It’s a really off the beaten path location: not many tourists find their way there unless they plan to spend some days in nature. You find some of the  best hikes in Spain  in Grazalema. Some of them are free, while for others you’ll need a permit and even a guide to explore. The little town is popular among Spanish nature lovers and bustling with life, especially in the spring and autumn months.

Besides the whitewashed houses worthy of any true Andalusian village, the little town church overlooks a small but quaint square. A couple of bars have put out their tables and chairs for hungry and thirsty mountaineers returning from their hikes in the evenings. You can wander around the streets and find small local boutiques. Also there. are a few hiking shops selling anything you might need for discovering the surrounding trails.

The best way to get to Grazalema is by car. This is especially the case if you plan to do some of the more popular hikes as they don’t start from the village itself. However, if you don’t have a car, there are still some incredible hikes that start just above the village, like El Simancón y El Reloj. You can get to Grazalema by bus from major cities like Málaga, Ronda, and Seville.

Contributed by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

Ronda is a historic city built in the 15th century during the Moorish times. The city is built over a spectacular gorge called El Tajo – it separates the city’s new town and old town. The most spectacular point of interest in Ronda is its stone bridge built over the gorge. It’s possible to walk the bridge and Puente Nuevo offers some great vistas over the surrounding areas. Other points of interest include The Cuenca Gardens (overlooking the bridge), Ronda’s Bullring and some fine wineries where you can sample Ronda’s best wines. 

In summer, Ronda may not be the best “off the beaten path in Spain location”. In the off-season and during weekdays, you may have the place to yourself!

Ronda is located in Malaga province, 100 km from Marbella Airport and 137 km from Sevilla Airport. The easiest way to get to Ronda is to rent a car on one of the nearby airports and drive. The best time to visit Ronda is late spring and early autumn – just outside of the summer heat. 1 or 2 days are enough to spend in Ronda, but you’ll need more for the surrounding areas 🙂

Contributed by Mal from Raw Mal Roams

Tarifa is famous for being one of the largest immigrant entrances in southern Europe. But that’s not all! Tarifa offers its visitors history, charm and above all calm and tranquility. It is a great off the beaten path location,  except for the high season months. In summer tourist flock to Tarifa during the day (at most they stay one or two nights there). But the rest of the year Tarifa welcomes lots fans of windsurfing and kitesurfing – the wind on its beaches is real! Also many vanlifers and digital nomads find their way to this little paradise in southern Spain.

From two hours to two months, you will enjoy Tarifa. The best way to visit this Tarifa and the surrounding region is to embark on an  Andalusia road trip . Otherwise, you can also take a bus to Tarifa, departing from one of the nearby cities such as Cadiz, Malaga or Seville. Enjoy!

Contributed by Inma from A World To Travel

Jerez de La Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is one of those underrated cities in Spain that will charm you with beauty and culture. Not many tourists make it to Jerez, which makes a visit to this city even more authentic and affordable!

Jerez de la Frontera is best known for three things: the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Arts (which is among the fourth most prestigious in the world), the production of sherry wines and the birthplace of flamenco.

Even if you spend only  one day in Jerez de la Frontera , you will get to experience the romantic side of the city. If you visit in spring, a delicate aroma of orange tree blossoms will guide your steps along the narrow roads between the white houses of the historic town of Jerez, all the way to the majestic Cathedral, which impresses with the amount of details and statues sculpted in stone. A visit to one of the many sherry bodegas around town will immerse you into the world of sweet wines. Afterwards, have dinner at a classic pena in the old barrio Santiago while enjoying authentic flamenco performance. 

Contributed by Joanna from Andalucia in my Pocket

With its flower-potted old town and endless stretch of sun-blistered beaches, it’s incredible that the Spanish have managed to keep Chipiona such a secret – especially considering how close it is to Seville . 

But with its fascinating history, which dates back to Roman times, thriving gastronomy scene and diverse natural habitats, Chipiona offers so much more than sun, sea and sangria.

Rent a bike and cruise the award-winning ‘vias verdes’ (green ways), where caballeros gallop through the pine-scented forests and nature reserves that fringe the coast. Stroll the waterfront Paseo Costa de la Luz, stopping for fresh fish feasts, tapas and vino as you go. If you’re feeling energetic then climb the 350 dizzying steps to the top of the town’s emblematic lighthouse – the 3rd tallest in Europe! The views from the top are well worth the effort and offer impressive views over Chipiona’s ancient ‘corrales’. These man-made corals trap fish with the ebb and flow of the tide and were built by Roman fishermen.. 

Oh, and you’d be wise to stop by at the Museo del Moscatel ! Here you can sip the region’s famous sweet muscatel wines and learn about them!

Note: Chipiona is one of those sunny places worth visiting at any time of year. But you’ll want to go during spring or early autumn to avoid the summer crowds (mainly holidaying Spaniards). You can get there easily by bus from Seville or Jerez – be sure to stay for at least two or three full days. 

Contributed By Ben Holbrook from DriftwoodJournals.com

Merida is a hidden gem in the South of Spain (Extremadura), 200km north of Seville. The city is famous for its Roman ruins, the best preserved Roman ruins in the Peninsula. Emerita Augusta, the Roman name of the city, was founded in 25BC as a Roman colony. For centuries Merida was one of the most important cities in Roman Hispania. The settlement was named after Augustus the Roman Emperor who governed at the time it was founded. Since 1993 Merida has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ruins of Merida are truly impressive, many of them are well-preserved.

There are several other attractions in Merida that can’t be missed! Go have a look at he Acueducto de los Milagros, Roman Theatre, Circus, Roman Amphitheatre, Roman Bridge over the Guadiana River, Temple of Diana and the Arch of Trajan. These are the major sights, smaller Roman ruins can be found at every corner of the street in Merida!

Merida is located on the Via de la Plata , a modern pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela that used to be a strategic Roman road that connected the city with the gold mines in the region.

A couple of days in Merida is enough to see the main archaeological sites and museums. Spring is the best time for visiting Merida: everything is blossoming and fields and parks are covered in flowers – definitely the most beautiful time of the year. The easiest and fastest way of getting to Merida is by train from Madrid, there are several daily trains from the Spanish capital. The journey takes between 4h30min and 5 hours. To get to Merida from Seville by train takes 3h30min.

Contributed by Campbell & Alya from Stingy Nomads

Want to take a tour to Merida? Check out this one:

Guadalupe is a small town in the remote Extremadura region and is definitely one to put on your “off the beaten path in Spain” list! Its greatest feature is undoubtedly the  royal monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe . For centuries, this was the most important monastery in the country, thanks to its royal patronage. In fact, Ferdinand and Isabella even signed the documents authorizing Columbus’ first voyage right here on the monastery grounds.

It was the conquistadors who took their devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe with them to the New World, where it spread like wildfire. The Caribbean island of Guadeloupe is named after the Virgin who is venerated here at the monastery, as is the nowadays more famous Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

While you don’t need much time to see Guadalupe, do try to stay overnight so you can have the experience of sleeping inside the monastery. Summer is the driest time of year, but it can be unbearably hot. The best time of year to visit is probably spring, as the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom. There’s also the added bonus of the Semana Santa processions in many towns throughout the region.

Contributed by Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Off the beaten path in Spain: tours of South Spain

If you do not want to travel by yourself, or you’re not a driver, you can think about joining a tour. These tours are mostly regional, but travelling throughout Spain by bus and train is easy!

I hope you enjoyed this list of places to visit in Spain! Let me know if I have forgotten any must-see but hidden treasures locations 🙂 Don’t forget to pin this post to your Pinterest boards!

Seeing the rest of the contributions here, it looks like we need to go on a Southern Spain road trip once this whole virus-thing blows over!

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Spain off the beaten path: 24 bucket list-worthy places.

Most people think Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, and Seville when you mention Spain. These are all breathtaking destinations, but so much tourism!

If you are a little bit like me, you like to get a little off the trodden path. Though Spain is among the most visited countries in Europe with over 80 million international tourists in 2018 and areas badly affected by overtourism , you can still explore Spain off the beaten path.

I understand you need to visit popular places too, there is a reason they are so popular. But at least, make sure you are a responsible traveler , to leave as little footprints as possible when you do.

However, in true Brainy Backpacker style, take a look beyond these iconic places too and seek some hidden gems in Spain on your next trip. There are plenty of destinations that would appreciate more (responsible) tourism!

After living a total of 8 years in the country, I have discovered quite a few secret places to visit in Spain. Nevertheless, to complete this off the beaten path Spain roundup, I’ve asked for the help of some other travelers that have been to some amazing places too!

Get ready to explore the best of Spain off the beaten track!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Table of Contents

Spain off the beaten path

There are so many incredible places to choose from if you want to explore Spain off the beaten path! Here are our top picks including how to get there and where to stay!

Los Caños de Meca (Cadiz Province)

As part of El Ancantilado Natural Park, Los Caños de Meca is a tranquil bohemian corner of southern Spain in the province of Cadiz.

Once inhabited by hippies, this mesmerizing coastline, covered by long, white-sanded beaches, pine trees, and rocky coastline has come straight out of a painting.

Today, it’s popular among locals, and especially kite surfers take advantage of the windswept Atlantic coastline. However, there is not much to the little strip that makes the village, Los Caños de Meca.

Most people choose to stay in nearby Barbate or Conil de la Frontera. Yet, the beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Andalusia .

Surrounded by sand dunes and crystal clear water, the Trafalgar Lighthouse is evidence of the famous battle of Trafalgar.

Make sure you head to the rocky side too to make yourself a full-body treatment of natural clay!

There are beautiful footpaths along the rocky coastline with pine trees giving shade on a sunny day. You should definitely take your time to explore the natural park.

The best way to get to Los Caños de Meca is by car, though there are some buses going from Seville and you can take a bus from Cadiz or Malaga to Conil. However, if you want to go on a day trip from Cadiz or Seville, I recommend driving.

Where to stay: Hostal Las Acacias

Carmona (Seville Province)

Only half an hour’s drive from the grand city of Seville you find a small town full of history and character. Carmona is not on most tourists’ radar when they visit Spain, though it’s totally worth the detour or even a day trip from Seville.

The town has two main entrances, the Roman gates Puerta de Cordoba and Puerta de Sevilla. The latter is integrated with the Moorish Alcazar fortress which offers some of the best views of Carmona from its Tower of Gold.

You also find the breathtaking 15th Century Gothic church Iglesia de Santa Maria de la Asunción right next to the gate.

There are many things to see in Carmona and you could without a doubt spend a whole day wandering the streets, have tapas and drinks at Plaza del Mercado de Abastos, and discover the historic layers of one of the oldest towns in Europe.

The ancient church, Iglesia de San Pedro, is a good example of the mosaic of cultures and different ages that have reigned in Carmona. Make sure you climb the tower of the church, the Giraldilla, which is named after its big brother, the Giralda in Seville.

You can easily get to Carmona from Seville by bus or by car. If you opt for staying a couple of days or more to really soak in the layers this interesting town has to offer, you can stay at either Convento Madre de Dios de Carmona or Hospedium Posada San Fernando.

Book your stay with Hospedium Posada San Fernando here

Minas de Ríotinto (Huelva Province)

Minas de Ríotinto is a small mining village in the inland of the province of Huelva and one of the best hidden gems in Spain. The village itself doesn’t have much to it other than a mining museum. One day is enough and you can probably even stay in any of the small villages around which will be nicer.

But you should definitely visit Minas de Ríotinto. If not for the village, at least for the river. It’s called Rio Tinto for the same reason it’s called Vino Tinto. Yes! You got it right! The red color!

This unique red river that flows past the village gets its color from high levels of minerals like copper and iron in the water. When I first saw a photo of this place I thought it wouldn’t be close to that cool in real life. You know all the stuff you can do in Photoshop.

Anyway, I wanted to go check it out for myself. To my surprise, the river is actually that red!

By visiting the mining park, you can join a train ride that takes you along parts on the old mining route. The train was originally used to transfer miners between sites. The train will also stop by the river so you can see it with your own eyes.

Hostal Atalaya is a 2-star hotel in Minas de Ríotinto which is fairly cheap.

Book your stay with Hostal Atalaya here

I stayed in Aracena which is only half an hour away by car. If you choose to stay in Aracena, make sure you visit the mesmerizing Cave of Aracena .

Mérida (Badajóz Province)

One of the most impressive cities in Spain off the beaten path is the UNESCO city of Mérida. Situated less than an hour from the Portuguese border in the Extremadura region, the city boasts a wealth of Roman heritage.

In fact, Mérida is the city with the most Roman remains, and them being the best preserved, in the entire country. Why this city is one of the most non touristy places in Spain is to me a mystery.

With an impressive archaeological area where you can see three of the main sites in one entrance, the Roman Theater, the Amphitheater, and the remains of a Roman Villa, you think you have seen it all. But this is just getting started.

Among the free things to do in Merida Spain , you can admire the Temple of Diana, see the Pórtico del Foro, witness one of the longest Roman Bridges in Spain, and admire a part of a once 10-kilometer-long aqueduct.

Merida is also home to a splendid Moorish Alcazaba and impressive medieval basilicas and in my opinion, it is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers .

Where to stay: Hotel Spa Adealba

El Saltillo: “The Other Caminito del Rey” (Malaga Province)

Have you wanted to hike El Caminito del Rey? What about a smaller, more secluded, less crowded version where you don’t have to wear a helmet or pay an entrance fee?

El Saltillo is definitely a worthy alternative! Starting in the village of Canillas de Aceituno it shares the same starting point as the route to La Maroma, Malaga’s highest peak.

However, turning right in the middle of the stairs taking you up above the village, crossing olive groves, passing a concrete aqueduct gets you on the right path.

The trail follows the old water pipes all the way along steep hills. This is not a hike for anyone with vertigo. The path is extremely narrow in parts yet incredibly beautiful.

Towards the end of the trail, you get to the first of two suspension bridges hanging along the cliffside. The end of the linear route rewards you with a little waterfall to cool down before your return. One of the best off the beaten path hikes in Spain I’ve been on!

You’ll need a car to get to Canillas de Aceituno and can easily be done as a day trip from Malaga . If you want to stay a couple of days to hike La Maroma too you can stay at Casa Bonita.

Book your stay at Casa Bonita here

Cabo de Gata Natural Park (Almería Province)

One of my favorite places on earth is Cabo de Gata Natural Park! The desert area boasts a nature scene like nowhere else. Volcanic rock meets the glittering Mediterranean Sea and secluded beaches are nestled in-between.

Even the most popular beaches like Los Muertos Beach, Los Genoveses Beach, and Monsúl Beach leave plenty of space between people in high season. While these might be the most popular, there are other beaches in Cabo de Gata that only the most adventurous get to.

Cala de San Pedro is one of the few beaches in Spain where the police won’t bother you for camping. With a hippie community that has inhabited the valley where the beach is, this is one of many beaches in the natural park where clothing is optional.

You can easily get to Cabo de Gata Natural Park from Almeria Airport. Though there are buses from the city of Almeria, I recommend going by car as the area is so big and secluded that you will miss out on the best spots without your own mode of transport.

You can get a rental car here

My favorite place to stay is the camping Complejo Turístico Los Escullos San Jose . Make sure you bring the needed eco friendly camping essentials, I have a great list here .

However, if you prefer a hotel, Hotel Atalaya in the town of San Jose is a good option.

Book your stay at Hotel Atalaya here

Ojén (Malaga Province)

Also called The Village of Lemons, Ojén is nestled between Sierra Blanca and Alpujarra above Marbella. The little village is not receiving as much attention as it deserves but is definitely one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia .

The natural caves alongside the village are interesting. Looking up at the houses sitting on the edge of the cave roof, makes you pray for it not to collapse. There is actually a small place of worship with a virgin in the cave.

Walking up the path along the caves takes you up above the village where you get the best views of the village and the faraway Mediterranean Sea. Walk up the steps on the other side of the road and you find yourself in a little cave where you can enjoy the views from a bench.

There are also a few enjoyable hiking routes going from the village itself. If you go early in the morning you can walk to La Concha or Cruz de Juanar from Ojén. However, I recommend driving up to Refugio de Juanar for these hikes as it will shorten them with more than 2 hours.

In the summer months, you can enjoy the refreshing river by Ojén and swim in the local natural swimming hole of Viñas.

Where to stay: Alojamientos Monteverde  

Guadix (Granada Province)

If you want to experience a typical cave house district, breathtaking nature, and one of the oldest human settlements in Spain, then Guadix is the place for you. As one of the best hidden gems in Spain, Guadix is situated in the province of Granada.

There are plenty of things to do in Guadix. The Roman Catholic cathedral is a masterpiece built in the span from the 16th to the 18th century. The Alcazaba of Guadix is maybe one of the best examples of Moorish culture in the little town while the seminary is one of the oldest in the country.

Close to the cave district, Barrio de Las Cuevas, you find a viewpoint of the city and surrounding mountains. However, if you want a truly natural view, head to Mirador del Fin del Mundo (End of the World View Point).

You can easily take the bus to Guadix from Malaga, Almería, and Granada. But the best way to explore the surrounding areas and get to do some hiking is if you have your own car.

When in Guadix you should definitely opt for staying in a cave! A good and reasonably priced option is Cueva El Jaraiz.

Book your stay with Cueva El Jaraiz here

Sanabria Lake Natural Park (Zamora Province)

Sanabria Lake Natural Park is situated in the Zamora Province (Castilla and Leon). There are endless hikes to discover in the park with Peña Trevinca being the highest peak of 2124m. The lakes are popular among the Spanish in the summer months, but not many foreign tourists make it to this part of Spain.

You find the biggest glacier on the Iberian peninsula in the park which forms numerous glacier lagoons. The biggest of these is the Sanabria Lagoon.

Apart from the hiking routes and the lakes, there are many cute, small mountain villages dotted around the outskirts of the park, Puebla de Sanabria being the most important. Some of them are not even worthy the village title as they don’t even have a supermarket, but super-charming.

Distinctive for the area are the old stone houses with chalkboard rooftops that haven’t been changed in centuries. Sanabria Lake Natural Park is truly a great off the beaten path Spain destination which is only reached by car.

Stay in Puebla de Sanabria at Hostal Raices for a reasonable price.

Book your stay with Hostal Raices here

Cazorla Natural Park (Jaén Province)

Cazorla Natural Park is covering more than 2000 square kilometers and is the largest protected area in Spain. There are unlimited with trails and a mecca for animal lovers! The abundance in wildlife makes it easy to spot deer, wild boar, and fox among other species.

Endless forests, peaks to climb, and rivers to swim in, the natural park has something for everyone that loves nature.

There are a few small towns to stay in, Cazorla being the most popular. You’ll need a car to get the most out of the park, but there are hikes going straight off the villages too. They are really just surrounded by nature!

Where to stay in Cazorla: Andalucía

For a unique experience, stay at Parador de Cazorla

Castril (Granada Province)

Sitting on the top of a rock in the middle of the rural parts of the Huescar Region in Granada Province, Castril is a superb off the beaten path Spain destination.

The steep cobbled streets are tightly walled by whitewashed houses decorated with wood and neat Arabic tilework leading up to Castril Castle. The strategically placed fort holds impeccable views of the surrounding countryside.

The main attraction, though, is the Sendero de la Cerrada del Rio Castril, which is a beautiful boardwalk talking you along the glittering river of Castril, crossing a suspension bridge and through a tunnel in the mountain before it ends by an old windmill which is now made into a restaurant.

The walk is only an hour one way, but to change the scenery, you can walk back to the village along a dusty dirt road through silver olive groves.

Castril is surrounded by the mesmerizing nature of Sierra Castril Natural Park and for hikers and bikers, there is enough to explore for weeks. Even with the proximity to Cazorla Natural Park, this is a natural heaven.

The easiest, if not the only way to get to Castril is by car. It is really off the beaten path in Spain but so worth the visit.

There are no hotels in the village. They are all spread around the natural park. You find a lot of incredible Casas Rurales, though good value for money and about the closest you get to Castril is El Maño I, only 12 kilometers from the center which makes it walkable.

Book your stay at El Maño I here

Gaucín (Malaga Province)

One of the first villages you find driving up the scenic hairpins of the Serrania de Ronda Wine route, Gaucín is also one of the most remarkable. The whitewashed village holds a turbulent history for its strategic positioning 626m above sea level with a straight view of Africa and Gibraltar.

Now, the village is popular among foreign artists who let themselves get inspired by the breathtaking surrounding scenery, green valleys turning into colorful water paintings with the seasons. The narrow streets boast local art galleries and the odd bakery.

The highlight of Gaucín are the ruins of Castillo del Aguila which stands tall above the village and offers magnificent views in all directions. The name means The Castle of the Eagle and it’s not just because of the far-away views, but if you look for them, you will most likely see eagles patrolling the sky.

Gaucín is easily accessed by car from Costa del Sol, only an hour from Marbella.

Stay at Casa Nina or La Fructuosa

Santander (Cantabria Province)

By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

While the cities of Madrid and Barcelona, as well as the beaches of Southern Spain, get a lot of attention, one destination that should be on your travel bucket list is Spain’s North Coast.

Specifically, consider a trip to Santander in Cantabria. This is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Spain . The city serves up delicious pinchos, gorgeous beaches, and natural landscapes to explore.

Santander is easily reached by train from any major city in Spain and there is a small airport for air travel. If you’re doing a road trip or backpacking around Spain, Santander can be enjoyed for a two or three-day stretch, but once you’re there you may just decide to spend even longer.

While there are plenty of  things to do in Santander , you can stamp out the highlights in two days and then save one full day for relaxing on the beaches.

The best beach to visit in Santander is Sardinero Beach. Since it’s on Spain North coast, the water temperatures are cool and refreshing.

You can also try surfing, but the best surfing conditions are across the bay in a smaller town called Somo. You can reach it by ferry in under 30 minutes with a picturesque ride across the bay.

While the beach is a main draw, visitors also love Magdalena Palace, the former residence of the royal family. From the peninsula it’s located on, you have sweeping views of the town and the lighthouse on Mouro Island.

Where to stay: Hospedaje Magallanes

Plasencia (Cáceres Province)

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

While Plasencia does get a handful of domestic tourists, most foreign visitors to Spain have never heard of it. Located in the remote Extremadura region in western Spain, it once held a very strategic position along the Silver Route, or Vía de la Plata.

Many of the Spanish conquistadors came from this part of the country, and when they returned from the New World with their plundered riches they built opulent palaces here for themselves and their families.

These palaces are now some of the most prominent attractions in Plasencia, in addition to its well-maintained system of fortified city walls. You can climb up one of the towers and enjoy the views from the ramparts.

While you’re up there, be sure to visit the Interpretation Center of the Medieval City to learn more about Plasencia’s illustrious past.

The Cathedral of Plasencia is another must-see attraction, and the Plaza Mayor is the place to go to enjoy a drink in the sun and hang out with the locals.

You can see all of Plasencia’s attractions in a day, but it’s worth staying overnight just for the experience of sleeping in  the Plasencia Parador , located inside what was originally a 15th-century monastery.

Plasencia is about halfway between Cáceres and Salamanca and can be reached by bus from either of these cities. Trains heading from Madrid to Mérida or Badajoz also pass through Plasencia.

Book your stay at Parador de Plasencia here

Zaragoza (Zaragoza Province)

By Vicki Franz of Vicki Viaja

For me, Zaragoza is definitely one of the most underrated cities in Spain. That’s why every year, we spend at least a few days in the capital of Aragon. Certainly, Zaragoza has a lot of magnificent sights to offer. With the city’s perfect location between Barcelona and Madrid, it is much more than just a convenient stopover during a trip around Spain.

Anyone visiting Zaragoza should spend at least one day in the city. However, we recommend at least 2-3 days to get to know life in the city better.

The most famous sights in the city are the Moorish Palace Aljafería and the Basílica del Pilar.

This impressive basilica, which counts as the largest baroque church in Spain, is one of the most significant sights in the whole country. With its location in the center of Zaragoza, it is the most visited place in the city.

The Plaza del Pilar, where the basilica is located, is also a popular attraction for Zaragoza’s visitors. In addition to the globe, the Fuente de Hispanidad, which has the shape of South America, is a real eye-catcher.

If you would like to have an even better view of the Pilar to admire this impressive church in its entirety, the bridge “Puente de la Piedra,” which is located directly behind the Plaza del Pilar, is an excellent viewpoint.

Where to stay: Hotel Inka

Banyalbufar (Mallorca – Balearic Islands)

By Clemens of Travellers Archive

When thinking about the island of Mallorca, most people have Palma in their mind, but there is definitely more that needs to be explored there.

My favorite village in Mallorca is Banyalbufar. It is located on the Western coast of the island and not far away from the stunning Tramuntana mountains.

However, it is mostly the location right on the coast that makes it special, in fact, it might even be considered one of the best coastal towns in Spain .

With its restaurants and their picturesque rooftop terraces, you always find a perfect spot to watch the romantic sunset.

Also, the bay in Banyalbufar is super unknown and mostly “used” by locals to swim off the 40 degrees summer temperatures. Still, it is perfectly clean with turquoise water and dreamy cliffs.

For anyone who is just here for a shortstop, you can easily see everything in Banyalbufar within half a day. However, I find Banyalbufar to be the perfect base for  road trips along the Westcoast of Mallorca , especially if you want to really explore Mallorca off the beaten path.

I stayed at the hotel “Can Busquets Turismo de Interior”. The hotel is a family business and only has a couple of individually decorated rooms. Breakfast is served in a tiny little courtyard and prepared by members of the family themselves. This was one of my favorite hotels I stayed in – ever!

Book your stay with Can Busquets here

Ainsa (Huesca Province)

By Izzy and Phil of The Gap Decaders

Ainsa, known as one of the most beautiful pueblos in Spain, is a delightful medieval hill town in the ancient region of Aragon. At the foothills of the mighty Pyrenees, Ainsa is a town of two halves.

In the valley lies the modern town, split by two rivers meeting after their journey south from the mountains. The jewel of Ainsa though, is the old quarter, perching on the hill above.

Ainsa’s old quarter is packed full of well-preserved medieval architecture, pretty cobbled streets, and gorgeous cafes.

There is a superb Romanesque church there, climb the belfry for incredible views to La Pena Montanesa, a dramatic rocky Pyreneean outcrop to the north.

Stop in the charming Plaza Mayor, where you’ll find the best architecture (and coffee!) before heading to the 11th-century Castillo which dominates the town, where you’ll also find great views from the restored ramparts.

The Castillo grounds host several live Spanish and international music festivals held over the summer each year and La Morisma, a huge reenactment of an 8th-century battle between Moors and Christians. 

Ainsa is a perfect Spain off the beaten path place to stop as you head into or leave the country on a pan-European road trip .

Where to stay: Hotel Meson de L’Ainsa

Tarragona (Tarragona Province)

By Elisa of World in Paris

Tarragona is a beautiful city located in the south of Catalunya, bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. The city’s perfect location- only one hour from Barcelona by train – and mild weather make Tarragona the perfect weekend getaway from the Catalan capital but it is also possible to visit on a day trip from Barcelona.

The weather in Tarragona is always good, one would say that the sun loves Tarragona! The last time I visited Tarragona was in January and I could wander around the city without a jacket. Obviously, people who also want to spend some time on the beach will prefer to visit Tarragona in the summer.

Tarragona was founded by the Romans under the name of Tarraco and some of the public buildings from the Roman Empire are still visible today. The list of archaeological remains not to miss in Tarragona includes the amphitheater and the Roman walls.

Tarragona has also an important medieval heritage, especially in the old town. Take the time to explore the medieval narrow alleys and Tarragona’s impressive cathedral built on the top of a magnificent staircase.

Finally, get a taste of the local cuisine (and its wines!) in one of the traditional restaurants in the city.

Where to stay: Plaça De La Font

As Catedrais Beach (Lugo Province)

By Darek of Darek and Gosia

As Catedrais Beach  located near Ribadeo, off the coast of the Basque Bay, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The original and official name is Playa de Aguas Santas, or Beach of Holy Waters.

Visiting the beach, which is about 1.5 kilometers long, is only possible at low tide when the ocean level lowers and reveals the sunken beach. The most impressive rock formations, almost 30 meters arches, are located at the eastern end of the beach and are located about 600 meters from the entry point.

Take a walk and admire the natural beauty of one of the most spectacular hidden gems Spain has to offer. It is worth remembering that Galicia is not the warmest place in Spain, so it’s not necessarily a great place for sunbathing. Nevertheless, it makes As Catedrais Beach one of the best Spain off the beaten path attractions.

Where to stay in Ribadeo: El Pinar

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Basque Country)

By Stephanie of Ethno Travels

If you plan to visit the Basque Country, you’ve certainly heard about San Sebastian on the Spanish side and Biarritz on the French side. But did you know that Game of Thrones 7 was shot in the area? The place I recommend to visit today is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the place of GOT Dragons castle!

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is an island situated between two Spanish villages, Bermeo and Bakio. Park your car in one of the numerous free parking, register for the free visit, and start the 30 minutes hike down to the ocean. No doubt that you will stop on the way to enjoy the landscapes and shot plenty of amazing pics.

Once arrived at the ocean level, you’ll be only halfway as you will still have to cross the beautiful stone bridge then take the stairs up to the church. Don’t forget your water, especially if the weather is hot!

 From the top, you’ll get a 360° view of the ocean, cliffs, nature. You can easily spend half a day visiting Gaztelugatxe. Prefer morning or the end of the afternoon if you want to enjoy the fabulous colors of nature and the ocean. But don’t forget a light if you stay after sunset!

There are several accommodation options in Bermeo and Bakio. But you can also stay in Zumaia, where you’ll find some other GOT shooting places.

Where to stay in Bermeo: Torre Ercilla Ostatua

Logroño (La Rioja Province)

By Amber of Food And Drink Destinations

Logroño is the main city used to explore Spain’s most famous wine region, Rioja. As the capital of the La Rioja Province, Logroño is the perfect city to explore the Rioja wine region .

With 150,000 year-round residents, the city itself is easily explored on foot. Like most cities across Spain, the centerpiece of Logroño is its cathedral. The Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda dates back to the 15th century and is a shining example of Gothic architecture.

One of the most recognizable attractions in Logroño is the Puente de Piedra or Stone Bridge. Rebuilt in 1871, the Puente de Piedra is one of four bridges that cross the Ebro River.

Only two hours drive from San Sebastian, visitors to Logroño will find the northern Spain tradition of pinchos throughout the city. Paired with outstanding local Rioja wines, Logroño is a food traveler’s dream.

Be sure to visit Calle Laurel, the Logrono tapas street, where dozens of pinchos bars offer tasty tapas.

For those not interested in history, food or wine, Logrono is also known by many as one of the cities on the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Logrono can be reached from Madrid by both car and public transport in approximately four hours. Right in the center of the city is Hotel Calle Mayor a luxury, boutique hotel.

Book your stay with Hotel Calle Mayor here

Bagá (Barcelona Province)

By Mayuri of To Some Place New

Bagá is one of the hidden gems in Spain that not many have heard about, especially if you are not living in the European continent.

Bagá is located in Catalonia in northern Spain. And what makes it super interesting is that it can be easily explored from Barcelona.

Barcelona to Bagá is only 1 hour and 15 minutes one way, making it perfect for a day trip. This offbeat medieval town is an amazing opportunity to see the Spanish countryside and go skiing during winters, so definitely add Bagá to your Spain itinerary.

There are quite a few things to explore in Bagá. The old lanes of Placa Galceran de Pinos, are juxtaposed to the Gothic quarter or Gaudi’s architecture and will showcase a very unique side of Spain.

The St. Esteve de Bagá is a popular stop in the town – a 14th-century church.

The town was founded in the 9th century, and it sits at 785 meters above sea level. It takes you into the welcoming views of mountains, rivers, fields, and more. The French Pyrenees can be reached within an hour from Bagá.

Bagá’s history can be traced back to the Knights Templar, and its central square pays homage to its leader and its alliance with the French.

Bagá is home to only 2200 residents, but this little town is popular during the winter months, as people hit the Pyrenees and Parc Naturel de Cadi-Moixero for winter sports. Bagá is an affordable spot for a night’s stay. Winter Solstice is also celebrated in a grand way on Christmas Eve.

Because Bagá is so small, finding accommodation might be a hassle. However, you can easily find hotels a little outside of the village (15 miles or so).

Where to stay in Bagá: Hotel Ca L’amagat

Garrotxa (Girona Province)

By Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

The volcanic region of Garrotxa, in Catalonia, is one of the places to visit in Spain that is lesser known to international tourists; yet a great one to visit for it will offer you a great all-encompassing experience. You can expect to find beautiful nature and adventure experiences; lovely small towns and quaint villages; unique museums and art and delicious food and wine.

The main town in Garrotxa is Olot, which is easily reached by bus from Girona (the main city of Costa Brava) or Barcelona. However, the best way to travel around Garrotxa is by car, as there are many smaller places that are a bit more difficult to visit on public transport.

To make the most of this region, plan to spend a week there. Among the places to visit, make sure to explore La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, where you can enjoy some easy hiking and biking trails that lead you to tiny Romanesque style churches in the middle of nowhere, such as Santa Margarida de Sacot, which is located center of an extinguished volcano crater.

Among the towns you should visit in  Garrotxa , make sure to go to Olot, which was built on top of two extinguished volcanoes and is famous for the many art nouveau buildings scattered around its historical center.

Other lovely places are Santa Pau, Which has a well kept medieval historical center; and Besalu (actually, a quite popular tourist destination), which is famous for its Pont Vell (Old Bridge) built in the 12th century in Romanesque style and for its Jewish quarter.

You will find many good places to stay in Garrotxa, but the best ones are La Rectoria, a beautiful bed and breakfast located in a former rectory in Sant Miquel de la Pineda, not far from San Feliu de Pallerols, and Hotel Mas La Ferreria, built right by Romanesque style church in La Vall de Bianya. They are both quite isolated, so you will need a car if you are planning to stay there.

Book your stay with B&B La Rectoria de Sant Miquel de Pineda

Teruel (Teruel Province)

By Lara of Both Feet On The Road

Most tourists that visit eastern Spain add Valencia to their list, but many do not realize that only 150 km away, you will find a beautiful underrated provincial capital city called Teruel.

It is the least populated capital in Spain, but the relatively small size is immediately compensated by the stunning architecture that can be found in the city.

Because it’s such a small city, you can easily see most highlights in 2-3 days. During those days make sure you visit the four world heritage-listed churches that offer a unique view of Mudéjar architecture.

These include the cathedral of Santa María de Mediavilla, and the churches of El Salvador, San Martín, and San Pedro. At the latter, check out the tombs of the lovers of Teruel, a famous, but tragic Romeo and Juliet story from Teruel.

Other highlights of Teruel include the Escalinata de Teruel (stairs), the Plaza del Torico (with the famous bull statue), and the Aqueduct Los Arcos).

When I visited Teruel I did a homestay, so I didn’t stay in any of the hostels. However, Albergue Internacional de Teruel City Backpackers seemed to be the most affordable, and a decent option for backpackers.

Teruel is connected to most major cities in Spain by bus or train. From Valencia it will only take an hour and a half by bus, from Madrid a direct bus takes about 5 hours and from Barcelona and from Barcelona you can get to Teruel in around 6 hours.

Book your stay at Albergue Internacional de Teruel City Backpackers

Seek hidden gems in Spain in a responsible way

Seeking hidden gems in Spain or any other country comes with a lot of responsibility from you as a traveler . It’s important to be conscious about your footsteps and the impact you have on any destination.

However, a small place that is not used to that many tourists doesn’t need to be overflowed by Instagrammers looking for their perfect shot in their fields, gardens, or doorsteps.

Remember to respect the locals as you go, talk with them, ask them for recommendations and let them tell you their stories. Spending time with the locals is often one of the greatest travel experiences and one of the most memorable benefits of sustainable tourism both for you and for them.

If you get really off the beaten path, take an evaluation if you really need to tag the location of that beautiful natural spot you accidentally found. If you have a few thousand followers that go there after you and keep spreading a photo to their in total millions of followers and so on, this little secret place could be seriously destroyed. Just think about it. Is it worth it?

READ: 10 best eco-friendly backpacks

Finally, I guess I don’t need to mention not to litter, to bring your own reusable water bottle, and shop locally, because you probably already do that. So, I’ll leave it with that!

I hope you have the best trip ever exploring Spain off the beaten track. Let me know in the comments what destination you will pick for your next trip!

READ NEXT: 12 Best Morocco off the beaten path destinations you can’t miss!

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2 thoughts on “ Spain off the beaten path: 24 Bucket list-worthy places! ”

Some really cool places to check out here. I’ll be sure to visit some when I get back to Spain. Although having lived there for a few years I can tell you Santander is definitely not part of the Basque Country. Cantabria is its own province and it’s probably not a good idea to tell the locals they’re Basque 🙂

Thanks for the heads-up, Stuart! With such a big post I just had to mess up something, right;) I will fix that straight away!

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Hidden Spain: where to stay and what to do off the beaten track

It is the UK’s favourite holiday destination, but few British tourists explore these stunning tucked-away beaches, sleepy villages and rugged national parks Hidden Croatia | Hidden Greece | Hidden France

A lot of us have been rather surprised to discover how much we like being in nature and all that outdoorsy stuff over the past couple of years. Of course, we all still love our city breaks – nothing like an exhilarating weekend in Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia to pep us up – but Spain is also really good for getting away from it all, whether in the mountains, an unspoiled stretch of coast or in a village you just happen to come across on a road trip. The Spanish love rural tourism and there are gorgeous small hotels and self-catering places all over the country.

Rías Altas, Lugo province, Galicia

Those who like proper beaches – the sort of long stretches of golden sand backed by cliffs and fields that you find in Devon, Cornwall and the Gower peninsula – will feel right at home in the Rías Altas. This is the north coast of Galicia, between the town of Ribadeo on the border with Asturias and Cape Ortegal, a distance of about 75 miles. It seems longer, though, because of the estuaries that form a crinkly seaboard along the Bay of Biscay. Shallower than the more fjord-like inlets of the Rías Baixas in the south-west of Galicia, the Rías Altas shelter a string of seaside towns that morph into makeshift resorts in summer.

While having a car or campervan allows the freedom to explore, a lot of the area can be seen by hopping on and off the little trains on the Feve narrow-gauge railway that run along Spain’s north coast. There are about 30 stations on the Rías Altas section and it would take two hours to travel the length of it in one go, but it would be easy to dawdle away a few weeks getting off wherever takes your fancy – the views from the train are often spectacular. A month’s pass costs €88.90 for unlimited travel (bikes can be taken on board for free, too).

At the eastern end of the Rías Altas, Playa de las Catedrales is the most well-known – and photographed – beach, with rocks forming arches and caves that are only accessible at low tide. Heading west, you come to the Ría de Viveiro, an inlet shaped like a teardrop. Stop off in the historic town of Viveiro to sit outside traditional bars, devouring plates of octopus and Galician wines.

At the western end of the coast is the Ría de Ortigueira, the largest inlet in the Rías Altas. The Ortigueira festival , a renowned celebration of Celtic music, takes place from 10-17 July in 2022. Acts include Tanxugueiras, a female vocal trio who put a contemporary spin on traditional Galician folk music.

Where to stay

West of Viveiro, the Estaca de Bares headland is the northernmost point of Spain and home to the Semáforo de Bares hotel (doubles from €80) in a former military maritime station. Or stay in a hamlet near Ortigueira, in a characterful if basic cottage that sleeps four in three bedrooms (from €74 a night).

The Matarra ña, Teruel province, Aragón

It’s possible to spend months exploring the vast region of Aragón, which remains stubbornly off the mainstream tourism radar. One of my favourite parts is the Matarraña, in the south-east corner of the region in the province of Teruel, 90 minutes’ drive from the beaches of the Costa Daurada – though it feels like it takes ages to get here from anywhere.

Vineyards and olive and almond groves cover the landscape of rolling hills, which are peppered with gorgeous medieval villages of honey-coloured stone. Sounds a bit like Tuscany? You wouldn’t be the first to think so.

Valderrobres, on the banks of the Matarraña river, is the main town, with a labyrinth of cobbled lanes topped by a 14th-century castle. A couple of gothic churches, a Renaissance town hall and a medieval bridge mean there is no shortage of picturesque selfie locations.

This is a pretty, arty sort of area, and the hilltop village of Calaceite has plenty of galleries and artists’ studios. The village is home to quite a few writers, too, following the precedent set by the Chilean author José Donoso, who settled in here in the 1970s and was visited by Gabriel García Márquez and other Latin American literary figures. Just outside Calaceite, visit the Mas de Flandi olive mill to stroll through the olive groves and taste the organic oils.

For those who fancy a leisurely bike ride, the Vía Verde Val de Zafán is an old railway line that passes through Valderrobres and leads down to the market town of Tortosa. There are some great swimming spots, too, such as El Salt de la Portellada, where the Tastavins river cascades down the rocks to form a pool.

La Torre del Visco (doubles from €325) may be pricey but it’s a beautifully restored 15th-century mansion in an idyllic riverside spot near Fuentespalda. It was one of the first luxury rural hotels in Spain when it was opened nearly three decades ago by British couple Piers and Jemma Markham, who had been working in publishing in Madrid. With an organic approach to food long before it became fashionable, the restaurant is one of the best in the area. In the heart of Calaceite, the Cresol (doubles from €127) oozes rustic chic and has six rooms named after olive varieties.

Valle del Ambroz, Cáceres province, Extremadura

In the north of the Extremadura region in western Spain, the Valle del Ambroz is a bucolic, sparsely populated area with an abundance of beech and birch forests and lots of wild swimming spots. Cherry and plum orchards flourish on the terraced hillsides and peppers grow in the meadows. While it is off the radar of most foreign tourists, it is popular with the Spanish, who head west from Madrid, north from Seville and south from Salamanca for a blast of rural bliss and long lunches in village squares.

The Ambroz River forms natural pools in the villages of Casas del Monte and Abadía – for those wary of wild swimming, these are good entry-level options for literally taking the plunge. Next to the pools in Casas del Monte is the shady terrace at Aurora Boreal for platters of Extremaduran ham and cheese, homemade croquettes, lamb chops and salad.

Hervás, below Pinajarro mountain, has one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Spain. Narrow, winding lanes flanked by houses with rickety wooden balconies lead up to a Templar castle at the top of the little town. Install yourself in the porticoed Plaza de la Corredera and try a few of the local specialities in one of the traditional taverns. Lots of dishes are flavoured with the pimentón paprika made in the adjacent and equally appealing La Vera valley. Try zorongollo (peppers with pimentón and garlic), morcilla sausage with pumpkin and escabeche de patatas (fried potato slices with a punchy vinegar dressing). Order the local pitarra red wine, aged in earthenware vats.

Walk from Hervás to Cascada de la Chorrera, a waterfall close to the source of the Ambroz River, or to the village of Gargantilla along a path lined with chestnut and holm oak trees.

Where to stay Hospedería Valle del Ambroz (doubles from €169 B&B plus dinner) in Hervás occupies a revamped 17th-century Trinitarian convent and has an outdoor pool surrounded by gardens. The Parador de Plasencia (doubles from €122 B&B), in the heart of the medieval town and just south of the Valle del Ambroz, is ideally situated for exploring the La Vera and Jerte Valleys, Las Hurdes and the Sierra de Gata, as well as the Monfragüe national park . One of the best-designed paradors, the building dates back to the 15th century and was originally a monastery.

Costa Trasmiera, Cantabria

While Santander has a string of lovely urban beaches, head east and you immediately come to a surprisingly rural stretch of coastline. The Costa Trasmiera, popular with Spanish holidaymakers, stretches for 30 miles from the Cantabrian capital to the fishing town of Santoña – where there are quayside canning factories to visit and see the best anchovies you’ll ever taste being filleted at lightning speed by nimble-fingered workers.

If you arrive in Santander on the car ferry from Plymouth or Portsmouth you’ll soon leave the city behind and be driving through open countryside with just a few cows for company. Half an hour away is Langre beach, where a crescent of limestone cliffs frames a bay of pale golden sand.

Noja is the main holiday town in Trasmiera, with a couple of dozen hotels and lots of bars and restaurants. It’s not exactly charming but there are four superb beaches to choose from, including Ris where eerie rock formations punctuate the sand. Your next swim should be at Berria, where two kilometres of glittering sand are bookended by rocky headlands. Whoever thought this was just the spot to build a massive ugly prison must have been on mind-altering substances, but just try to ignore it.

Look instead beyond the beach to the nature reserve formed by the Santoña, Victoria and Joyel marshes. This is the most important wetland area in northern Spain and attracts migrating wading birds from autumn to spring, particularly spoonbills, curlew sandpipers and avocets. Part of the reserve is designated as the Trasmiera ecopark , a sustainable tourism project with several observation points and visitor centres, including the restored Santa Olaja mill, where you can see how the force of the tides was traditionally harnessed to grind wheat.

The three-bedroomed Casa de las Marismas (from £790 a week) is in the village of Escalante by the Marismas de Santoña wetlands and three miles from Berria beach, which is accessible via a cycle path as well as by road. There are several campsites along the coast, including Playa Joyel (pitches from €98 a week, two-bedroom lodges from €448 a week), which has a pool and kids’ club and is right next to Ris beach in Noj.

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas natural park, Andalucía

In the underrated province of Jaén, in the north-east corner of Andalucía, this mountainous nature reserve is the biggest protected area in Spain and an idyll for birdwatchers, cyclists and walkers. Olive, cork oak and Aleppo and Austrian pine trees carpet the hillsides and valleys, which are home to ibex, wild boar and deer.

You might spot a golden eagle, Egyptian vulture or even a lammergeier here. The mighty Guadalquivir River rises in the Cañadas de las Fuentes, and flows across Andalucía for 400 miles until it reaches the Atlantic at Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

The hub of the area is the small town of Cazorla, which was voted Spain’s capital of rural tourism for 2022, in recognition of its efforts to promote sustainable holidays in natural surroundings. In the north of the reserve, which gets far fewer tourists, the castle seems to merge into the rock in the village of Segura de la Sierra.

Bus services only link the main places in the region so, ideally, take a car. On the way, stop off in the extraordinary towns of Úbeda and Baeza, where the wealth of Renaissance buildings has gained both of them Unesco world heritage status. It is possible to manage without your own transport, however. Set up base in Cazorla and follow walking and cycling trails from there, such as the GR 247 Forests of the South , the longest circular route in Spain.

Where to stay The Parador de Cazorla (doubles from €113 B&B) is modern but built in traditional Andalucían style. In a gorgeous location in the hills, there are sweeping views of the surrounding countryside to be enjoyed while lying by the outdoor pool.

The Puente de las Herrerías campsite (cabins from €54 a night for two people) has pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as cabins and chalets. The site also has a pool and offers activities including ziplining, treetop challenges and rock climbing.

Somiedo natural park, Asturias

There are very few places in Europe where brown bears roam freely, but in late spring or summer it’s just possible to spot a few ambling around this lush mountainous area in Asturias, northern Spain. Establish a base in the village of Pola de Somiedo and find out more about the project to protect the population of about 280 Cantabrian bears at the Fundación Oso Pardo information centre . To maximise chances of seeing them, venture out with the guides at Somiedo Experience .

Spectacular glacial lakes, limestone peaks and beech forests define this alpine landscape, which is a Unesco biosphere reserve. Spanning five valleys, Somiedo is home to wolves, chamois, golden and booted eagles, and griffon vultures. Thatched stone shepherds’ huts, known as teitos , dot the hillsides, which are covered in flowers from May to September.

It is possible to get here from the UK without flying or driving on the ferry to Santander , taking a train to Oviedo and then a bus down to Pola de Somiedo. You can set off on walks or bike rides from the village itself and sign up for other activities once there. Combine hiking with mindfulness and meditation on a retreat with Walking in Spirit (from £650 for two sharing an apartment) led by therapist Frankie Sikes.

The Palacio Flórez-Estrada (doubles from €65) – parts of which date back to the 15th century – in Pola de Somiedo has nine cosy rooms (no televisions) in the main house and four one-bedroom apartments in the former stables. The family who run it make everyone feel at home. Surrounded by lush gardens, with a pool, playground, tennis court, organic vegetable plot and a stream tinkling alongside, this is an idyllic spot for switching off. It often runs cultural events as well as birdwatching excursions and other activities.

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Best Hidden Gems in Spain: 21 Unique Places To Visit in Spain

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » Best Hidden Gems in Spain: 21 Unique Places To Visit in Spain

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Updated: 20th January 2023

The addictive echo of feet stamping to a flamenco rhythm. Those first rays of daylight breaking over jagged peaks. Bar tops drowning in Pintxos. Waves gently lapping against tranquil islands. A plethora of architectural styles from centuries gone by.

Welcome to secret Spain – where the nation’s world-famous monuments aren’t the only things worth visiting.

Going off the beaten path in Spain is arguably not hard – especially when there are so many best cities in Spain to visit . This creates the dilemma of planning your time, as it would be easy to spend multiple visits just seeing the most famed corners of the country. In a land where the culture and landscapes are as delicious and varied as the regional dishes, there really isn’t a bad spot to visit.

One of the greatest pleasures about living in Portugal has been popping over the border to discover more of my Iberian neighbour and the best unique places to visit in Spain.

While for many Spaniards, this list of hidden gems in Spain might seem rather obvious, for my fellow friends in the UK & USA, I hope you’ll find somewhere a little more  off the beaten path in Europe  from some of my favourite secret Spain destinations I’ve been lucky enough to visit over the last few years. 

Logroño, for a pinchos bar crawl 

Welcome to Logroño, the capital of the Rioja wine region. Here, the atmosphere is sure to charm you – especially after your first pincho crawl. It might not be much of a hidden gem in Spain to in-the-know visitors, but for those that usually flock to the south, the wine culture of the North will be a welcome change of scenery!

Pinchos, bite-sized skewers of food, are often served on top of bread. With delicious mixes of meat, cheese, seafood, and local flavours, they are best washed back with a glass of local vino tinto . Head to Calle Laurel, pick a starting point and hop between hole-in-the-wall spots. It’s like a typical bar crawl, but the food is the focus.

Dishes are either passed through the window or enjoyed at the bar top in places oozing with character. You’ll be in outstanding company, as this is a favourite past-time of the locals too. For the best bite in each place, ask what the signature dish is – each establishment will have its own famed option.

Beyond stuffing your face, the Rioja Museum, ancient church, and impressive Cathedral will fill your time between the lunch and evening pincho crawls!

Guadix, for the caves 

Have you ever slept in a cave home? Well, here is your chance.

Guadix – compared to the many other popular destinations nearby – remains a bit of a hidden Spanish gem. Set in the semi-arid interior of Andalusia, this is one of the country’s oldest settlements. It’s a small place with a significant history.

All the usual suspects have called this place home, from the Phoenicians and Carthaginians to the Romans and the Moors. Later. Late, it would become a mining town. Now, it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Spain

But nowadays, it’s an ideal side trip from the likes of Granada. While it’s not a destination for big-ticket attractions, there is a unique atmosphere in these sun-parched lands that feels like another time.

To add to that magic, many of Guadix’s caves now serve as tourist accommodations – a side effect of populations migrating to the cities. The Barrio de Cuevas is the most emblematic neighbourhood. Here, you’ll see chimneys rising from the rocks and climbing out from the underground world – it’s literally hidden Spain. Residents constructed these cave homes to survive the elements. Cool in the scorching summer sun and insulated under the winter blanket of snow.

It’s a pretty cool to experience this age-old tradition on an overnight visit.

Gijón, for a northern-Spain beach escape

Nestled on the lush ‘Green Coast’ of northern Spain , Gijón has become a favourite beach escape for both local Asturians and Spaniards from further afield.

Lured in by the curved bay, golden sands, and gently lapping sapphire waves, it’s a refreshing escape when the mercury start’s going above 40 degrees in the country’s south. If you’ve ever experienced the sometimes unbearable heat in Andalusia, you’ll understand why Asturias is the summer place to be.

While it’s not really off-the-beaten-path Spain for most locals, international tourism is still growing here. I found this meant the city felt much more ‘lived in’ than some of the country’s most touristed spots.

Grab your towel and head to the beach. Admire the city’s Art Nouveau architecture. Venture underground to the old Roman Baths. Head along the coast on day trips to small villages such as Cudillero. Drink all the sidra – Asturia’s famed local cider is a treat. Then, for an extra hidden Spain spot, visit the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, Spain’s largest building with a problematic past.

Read more: Gijon travel guide

Sanlúcar de Guadiana, for the ‘smugglers’ festival and zip line

Sanlúcar de Guadiana, in a near-permanent slumber along the Guadiana River, may seem like your traditional whitewashed village at first glance. But this little spot on the Andalusia border with Portugal has two secret Spain reasons to visit.

The first thing which makes this one of the more unique places to visit in Spain is the chance to cross the Spain-Portugal border – and a timezone – on a zip line.  Limite Zero  operates a high-speed crossing above the river, delivering you to Alcoutim – the Portuguese village counterpart – at a speed of nearly 70 kilometres per hour. You can then kayak or hop a river taxi back.

That’s not the only way to cross this river, though, and the second reason to visit this secret Spain spot is courtesy of contraband past. For a long weekend at the end of March, the villages on both sides of the border unite once more to celebrate their shared smuggling history. In days gone by, these illegal practices were rife at specific points across the river – including here.

Nowadays, you don’t need to hide your souvenir shopping, with entertainment, food stalls, music and even ‘border guards’ in costumes adding to the celebrations. A purpose-built floating bridge is erected for the festival, allowing free-flowing foot traffic between the two villages, even if it is just for a weekend. 

While for much of the year, Sanlúcar de Guadiana may not be such a unique place to visit in Spain, for these few days at least, it becomes something of a hidden Spain spot worth making the detour for.

Segovia, for an architectural feast 

Segovia is an easy day trip from Madrid – although you may want to spend longer – and one of my most recent lesser-visited Spanish destinations.

A visit to Segovia will reward you with a whole host of architectural gems, so be sure to pack the camera.

The almost Disney-like Alcázar de Segovia, dating from the 12th century, has been restored. Over the years, it has served as a fortress, castle, and even a prison. Now, inside, you’ll find an interesting museum. However, if you seek the best views, scramble up the hill across the other side of the road to the Mirador del Alcázar.

Other notable sights are the vast and impressive Roman aqueduct and the Cathedral, which towers above the rest of the city. The perfectly presented Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso sits just outside the city proper.

Picos De Europa, for epic hikes

In my opinion, Picos de Europa should be up there with the Dolomites. When it comes to epic mountains and hiking locations in Europe, this is a winner.

Spanning across three different regions (Asturias, Cantabria, and León) in the north of Spain, this natural playground is perfect for both epic multi-day hikes – caminos – or simply go village hopping to find your secret Spain and admire the views by car. Laden with nature, this is a unique place to visit in Spain due to its endemic fauna and flora.

Torre de Cerrado, the highest peak of the range, only reaches an elevation of 2650 metres. Still, even experienced mountain hikers can’t deny the beauty of this protected park.

Pick a hike, breath in the fresh air, and soak up a completely different side of Spain. There are plenty of dreamy villages, with stone houses and epic vistas, such as Cosgaya, to make a day-hike base. Alternatively, camping parks and camino routes make for a great multi-day trip to discover more hidden Spain.

Tossa de Mar, for a beach retreat with personality 

The Costa Brava has long been a popular destination for visitors seeking sunshine, fun, and a cold beer – so including somewhere from this stretch of coast on a list of Spain, hidden gems is a bit of a stretch. 

However, I adored this place, and thanks to the medieval fortress of Vila Vella, which rises above the sandy bays on either side, it has something a little more special to it than the modern high-rises beach resorts that we often associate with the southern Spain coast.

Of course, there are countless more adorable villages and Spanish hidden gems along this stretch of coast. Cadaqués, Palafrugell and Lloret de Mar are just three others worth a vist.

Valladolid, for vino and Renaissance architecture

Unless you’re knowledgeable about Spanish wines, or sacred art, Valladolid likely is a bit of a secret Spain spot for most.

The city isn’t far from Madrid by high-speed rail, and once here, you’ll find a land dedicated to the good stuff.

With five Designation of Origin (DOP) appellations – and twenty grape varieties – within Valladolid province, it’s a wine enthusiast’s paradise. While the vines might be aged, the city’s energy remains relatively youthful. We can thank the large student population of one of Spain’s oldest universities for that.

Valladolid’s main attraction, though, is the sacred art. At the Museo Nacional de Escultura, multiple religious sculptures focus on Semana Santa (Holy Week). While the art might not be to everyone’s taste, the architecture is exquisite. The 15th-century building was originally the Colegio de San Gregorio.

Read more: Valladolid city guide

Murcia, for a mouthwatering wine route

One of my favourite hidden Spain, spots both the region of Murcia and the capital city of the same name don’t draw in too many foreign visitors, which more than adds to their charm. 

The Murcia wine route , which takes in the towns of Bullas, Jumilla, and Yecla, will see you enjoying the scrumptious local grape Monastrell. Compared to most vineyards in Spain, these can look rather strange, as this particular grape grows short, stumpy and outwards, crafting a strange landscape and a unique place to visit in Spain.

A mix of modern and funky, through to traditional and heritage vineyards and tasting rooms, awaits. Great tasting menus paired with wine are as low as €40, making this a relatively affordable wine region to sample. This is secret Spain at its tastiest.

Read more: Monastrell on the Murcia Wine Route

Combine this with the unique accommodations options at affordable prices, such as staying in castles, vineyards, or even windmills in orchards, and you have a region of Spain that deserves far more attention. In the capital city of the same name, be sure to visit the Real Casino de Murcia, where the exquisite Islamic-style welcome hall stands out.

Cuenca, for charming historical vistas

This seriously underrated hidden gem in Spain was a joy to discover. While most online discussion around this medieval city is on the Casa Colgados, the hanging houses which seem to dangle off the side of the rock, the whole old city is magical and deserving of its UNESCO world heritage status.

Perched upon a rock and with a history that can be traced back around 1300-years, the colourful houses, castle ruins, and Cathedral packed with architecture spanning various time periods come together to provide another world like feel.

Stepping into Cuenca is like stepping back in time. The surrounding nature of the karst mountains, coupled with the crystal blue river, provides an incredible adventure playground and one of the more unique places to visit in Spain.

Read more: Things to do in Cuenca

San Sebastián’s underground food scene

While San Sebastián is certainly a famous destination already, thanks to its prime position on the Basque coast, and wonderful mix of city and beach, it wasn’t until I took a  10-day food tour through Spain  that I learned about the gastronomic world in the basements of these streets.

There are, in fact, around 150 Gastronomic societies ( txoko  in Basque) in San Sebastian. Due to the small houses and apartments in the city, these communal member-only cooking spaces flourished as a perfect place to host large family get-togethers over a delicious feast. Inside this creative culinary sports, one of Europe’s most acclaimed food destinations was born long before being put on the map for world-famous chefs.

You could say gastronomy runs in the blood of the residents of San Sebastián, and these hidden Spain spaces are a testament to that. Each member has their own key and 24/7 access. Different families will often be cooking simultaneously, sharing recipes and dishes over laughter. 

While you need to be invited by a member to enter one of these societies, some tour options, like I did, will get you privileged access to enjoy a home-cooked feast in these spaces. The foodie scene in San Sebastian is certainly famous, but these underground caves are one of the most unique places to visit in Spain – if you can get an invite! (Update: You can now book one of these  private underground cooking club  experiences online).

Read more: San Sebastián guide

Potes, for a medieval mountain escape

One of Cantabria’s most dreamy villages, tucked away Potes is the perfect example of hidden Spain. Here, you’ll be invited to slow down and step back in time. Set against a backdrop of verdant mountains, with the soundtrack of the river running through, you get a real mix of old and new, nature and urban.

Be sure to hit up the market in the square, where stallholders will shower you with samplings of local cheeses and cured meats, perfect for crafting a picnic in the nearby mountains. Then, stroll through the ancient streets marvelling at how some of the old wooden framed houses are still standing.

This is a slow-down destination, with the mountains and lush landscapes of the national park on your doorstep. An ideal escape from the noise of the world. Head here for hiking, reading, and quality countryside cuisine and to find your own secret Spain.

Cáceres‎, for medieval scenes 

Cáceres’‎ historical core is enjoying a moment. Having been featured on Game of Thrones – it was part of Kingslanding – the spotlight has been turned on this provincial capital.

Inside the Old City Walls (be sure to walk them), you’ll find a Middle Ages atmosphere and plenty of serenity. Hobble along historic cobbled streets, admire the medley of Gothic, Renaissance, Roman and Morish architecture, and understand why UNESCO granted the city World Heritage-listed statues.

This region, Extremadura, is not only rich in architecture, though. It’s a land of quality gastronomy, culture and heritage. It was the birthplace of the famous and true Jamon Iberico (cured ham), so you can expect the tastiest cuts at reasonable prices. Let’s see how long this remains off the beaten path in Spain for us international visitors.

Cabrales, and the hidden cheese caves

When you think of going off the beaten path in Spain, do you imagine yourself in a damp cave eating a rather intense cheese? Well, in Cabrales, set amongst the mountains of the Asturias region, that is precisely what awaits.

Head towards Las Arenas, and here you’ll find the Cueva del Queso de Cabrales museum, one of Spain’s most unique places to visit. You’ll be walked through the production method and taken inside the caves for a tasting of this award-winning blue cheese, still produced by rural farmers until this day.

Not only is the setting a nature lovers’ dream, but here it is all about slow travel, regional produce, and great hiking trails. Cabrales is best included as part of a trip to the Picos de Europa mountain range.

Laguardia, one of Spain’s most beautiful villages 

While beautiful Laguardia might be somewhat of a hidden gem, the region’s wine, Rioja, is not. This delicious and full-bodied red is one major pull – but that is far from the only reason to visit.

This walled town, albeit with fewer intact walls since the last war, is one of those fairytale destinations. The five imposing entrance gates will bring you into a maze of tiny streets, now home to only a few thousand people. Due to some 250 tunnels underneath these streets, vehicles are mostly banned to stop them from collapsing.

Of course, you wouldn’t be doing Laguardia justice if you didn’t indulge in a bit of wine tasting. To do this, you’ll get the chance to see some of those underground tunnels up close, where wine is still produced and stored.

Head into Bodega El Fabulista to learn about the traditional methods and for a tasting of their fabulous wines in the underground hidden Spain world. Then, enjoy a fantastic lunch set amongst a vineyard outside of the town’s walls at Villa Lucía Espacio Gastronómico.

Cordoba, for the flower-filled patios

Cordoba itself isn’t really a secret Spain spot. But, if you visit during early May, you are in for quite a unique treat.

The Courtyard Festival (or Patio Festival) which dates back to 1918 – pausing during the Spanish civil war and thankfully later returning – is one of the best southern Spain hidden gems to take part in if you get your timings right.

Over the (usually) two-week festival, a selection of homes and other buildings open up their colourful courtyards, often decorated in countless flowers that otherwise would be off-limits to the public. The event is free, although donations are always welcome.

It’s a wonderful way to keep traditions alive, and there is even a competition for the best-decorated windows! It’s a great atmosphere, and makes the UNESCO-heavy city become one of the most unique places to visit in Spain for a couple of weeks. If you aren’t able to visit during early May, you might still be able to access some patios on a  pre-booked private guided tour .

Read more: Best cities in Spain

A Coruña, for a seafood degustation 

While most travellers to Galicia find themselves marvelling at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral , head to the region’s second – yet more populous – city of A Coruna to use as a base to explore the hidden gems on the Galician coast. 

Famed for the daily fresh catch and passion for Seafood, your taste buds are guaranteed a treat in A Coruna. Pulpo Gallego (Galician-style octopus), is a must-try local dish.

In the city itself, admire the impressive Plaza de María Pita or dip into the fascinating Domus Museum, which focused on the human body. Later, head out to the coast for rugged, windswept trails and the oldest lighthouse known, the Tower of Hercules.

The Galician culture and language are on full show here too, and one of the greatest joys for me about travelling through the ‘hidden gems in Spain’ is learning the differences between the regions. Did you know, for example, the traditional instrument here and in northern Portugal is the gaita , a type of bagpipe?

Read more: 7 Days in Spain itinerary

Cartagena, for understated archaeological treasures

This hidden gem in Spain, situated on the coast of the Murcia Region, was somewhere I had zero expectations of before I visited – and it’s fair to say I was pleasantly surprised. So much so, I’ve returned for a second weekend visit. Founded by the Carthaginians some 2200 years ago, history is stacked upon history here. 

The Roman Amphitheatre, now bizarrely sandwiched in between graffiti-stained walls and tapas restaurants, is, of course, the star of the city. However, the vast collection of museums and Roman ruins that can be visited, fantastic gastronomy and wine scene, and the almost criminally low prices when compared to, say, Barcelona, make this a city I just feel into the rhythm of.

You’ll also find great value wine and tapas in the city – especially compared to some of Spain’s more touristed cities – and decent beaches just a short hop along the coast.

Make time to visit the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where you can admire shipwrecked artefacts. Step inside the now roofless ruins of the Old Cathedral of Cartagena, and explore any of the countless historical museums and sights dotted around the city. Following a huge project in 2022, the Roman-focused history museum is much more impressive and without the crowds, is a relatively hidden Spain spot to step back in time.

Read more: Spain’s Murcia region

Lugo, for the Roman walls

For a slice of Roman history in the heartlands of Galicia, look no further than Lugo. This is a great side trip or addition if you’re already visiting Santiago de Compostela.

Most notable are the city’s Roman walls. Lugo is the only place in the world where the old walls remain complete, encircling the whole of the Old Town. So, while Roman ruins aren’t so rare in the country, it’s the walls that make it one of the most unique places to visit in Spain.

Better still, you can walk the loop of the walls for an aerial view over Lugo, allowing you to retrace the steps of the past civilization. Dating back to the 3rd century, this is one of Spain’s most impressive World Heritage Sites.

Back on ground level, you’ll find more Roman history to discover. Inside a more modern spa, you can find the Roman Baths, of whih some of the original rooms still remain. However, the city’s Roman bridge has sadly been reconstructed multiple times since its inception.

Port de Sóller and the ‘hidden gems’ of the Balearics

While the nightclubs of Ibiza, or Magaluf, might be the first thing that comes to mind when considering the Balearic islands, between the four main islands, and many smaller ones, there are plenty of Spanish hidden gems to be found – even if perhaps they feel like one of the most common places to visit in Spain.

Ibiza, for example, long known for its hedonistic nightlife, is enjoying a moment in the spotlight. As islanders try to reimagine the destination as a year-round luxury offering, the island’s more untouched and nature-filled side is becoming more popular.

High-end dining options and serene Ibiza villas are luring in a different type of traveller to the island more and more often. Whether you head to the quieter beach resorts of Santa Eulalia and Portinatx or to the peaceful interior, you’ll find a side of Ibiza a far cry from late-night parties. 

Likewise, even on the ever-popular island of Mallorca , there are pockets of secret Spain and calm to be found. Go hiking in the Tramuntana mountains. Escape on the slow train to port de Sóller. Or, simple, take a city break in the capital of Palma, where refined cocktail bars and creative culinary restaurants offer a totally different side of island life to the Magaluf strip. 

Read more: Palma city guide

Almeria, for the Alcazaba

If you’ve ever done a Skyscanner anywhere flight search to Spain, Almeria Airport has likely popped up. This has led the local area and coast to become a popular holiday destination.

But, before making a beeline to the beach, it’s well worth exploring the city itself.

Backed by the Sierras of Almeria – a parched mass of mountains – the city exudes a little desert vibe. That is a strange point to make for a coastal destination. Yet, those credentials are backed up. Just a 30-minute drive inland, you’ll find an area (and visitable park) often used to film Wild West-style movies.

Almeria is crowned by its Alcazaba, which is the main – but not the only – draw to the city. An imposing fortification constructed under Moorish rule in the 11th century, it’s the second largest in the country. The grandest being Granada’s Alhambra. Nowadays, you can roam inside the citadel, witnessing the engineering marvels of water fountains and irrigation for the gardens. Inside, you can imagine what life behind the walls would have been like many centuries ago.

Read more: Best cities to visit in Spain

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Undiscovered Spain: 30+ Hidden Gems In Spain

Looking to get off the beaten path in Spain? Here’s my guide to visiting Spain’s secret out-of-the-way towns, villages, and hidden gems.

This guide will appeal to savvy travelers who adore hidden gems. Or those who are simply weary of urban tourist clogs.

Spain’s hotspots — Barcelona , Madrid , the Basque Country — are beautiful, but suffer from tourism saturation.

The good news is that there are some truly exquisite quieter alternatives, if you know where to look. This guide takes you on a de-touring of Spain, to Spain’s off the radar hidden gem towns.

From north to south, Spain is filled with picturesque less touristy hamlets that often go unnoticed and undiscovered. Many of these villages are among Spain’s most beautiful towns and are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Spain’s undiscovered small towns are appealing and romantic — swathed in centuries old cobbled lanes, whitewashed cottages, alcazabas, and doughty cathedrals. You’ll be transported back in time to a quainter and simpler version of life.

If you have tourist phobia like me and are looking for more unusual things to do in Spain, you’ll want to ferret out these lovely small Spanish towns.

They may not hog the headlines. But these hidden gems are just as beautiful as Barcelona or Seville . Some are even easy day trips from Spain’s major cities.

Hidden Gems In Spain

These adorable less visited Spanish towns are just too perfect to be kept secret. Bookmark them now for planning an itinerary or future road trip in Spain.

1. Albarracin

Perched on a cliff above the Guadalaviar River in Aragon, Albarracin is a gorgeous medieval hilltop town. It’s been listed as a national monument since 1961. In 2018, Spaniards voted Albarracin Spain’s prettiest town.

The town’s light pink and orange hued buildings rise organically from a sun-scorched mountain. Albarracin harmonizes Gothic and Moorish architecture and nature beautifully.

At the top of the winding village, pop into Albarracin Cathedral. It’s on the site of a historic Roman Temple. The late 16th century cathedral combines Renaissance and Gothic architectural elements and dominates the cityscape.

Ramble over the town’s medieval curtain walls too. They once protected the city from all manner of unfavorable people, but mostly Christians. You have a breathtaking view from the Torre del Andador.

2. Antequera

The Spanish-Baroque town of Antequera is fittingly dubbed the “Florence of Andalusia.” Antequera is a hidden gem in Andalusia. You’ll have the place mostly to yourself, which is a singular joy in southern Spain .

If you’re day tripping, there’s a lot to do. Park your car on the outskirts of town and walk up Calle Don Infante.

Antequera boasts an impressive Moorish Alcazaba, almost like a mini Alhambra. It also has a lovely Renaissance church and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

READ : Complete Guide to Granada’s Alhambra

Antequera’s ancient megaliths/dolmens are outside the old town. You’ll see signs. The dolmens date from the Bronze Age and are among the oldest things on the planet. They are essentially Spain’s Stonehenge.

The dolmens are ancient burial grounds that were declared a UNESCO site in 2016. They’re one of the most remarkable engineering and architectural works of European prehistory and an important example of European Megalthism.

For more details and information, check out my two guides to visiting the town of Antequera and to Antequera’s UNESCO dolmens . To see it all, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Located in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Besalu may be the most interesting Spanish village you’ve never visited. Once the capital of Charlemagne’s 8th and 9th century feudal Spain, Besalu is the prototype of a well-preserved medieval town.

Besalu’s photogenic bumpy cobblestone streets and ancient stone buildings are charming. The center is Placa de la Lliberat, chock full of cafes and artisan shops.

The ancient town’s most emblematic sight is its 12th century fortified bridge, complete with crenellated battlements. But there are plenty of architectural treats in Besalu.

Sant Vicente is Besalu’s best Romanesque church, dating from the 10th century. It has a particularly beautiful rose window.

The Church of Sant Pere, or Saint Peter, is all that remains of the 10th century Benedictine monastery torn down in 1835. The ruins of the convent of Santa Maria on the hill above town offer a panoramic vantage point over Besalu.

You can also visit rare Jewish baths, discovered in the 1960s. A tourist train leaves from the medieval bridge every 45 minutes and visits the baths and the two churches.

You can visit Besalu on a guided day trip from Barcelona .

4. Cadaques

Cadaques has a reputation as one of the most painted villages in the world. This once isolated sleepy fishing village in Costa Brava attracted artists and writers such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro and Marcel Duchamp. They came for its whitewashed buildings, vivid colors, and rugged beauty.

While in Cadaques, explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, the large Church of Santa Maria (beautiful altar and great views from the terrace), and the Cala Nans Lighthouse.

You can also walk from Cadaques to the Dali House in Portlligat (you need reservations). This is where Dali created his finest works. Top off your day with dinner at Casa Anita.

35 minutes away Figueres is an unremarkable workaday town. But if you’re a fan of Salvator Dali’s art, it’s a must visit town in Spain. Figueres is home to the stunning Dali Theater-Museum and the nearby fantasy castle Castle de Pol. The museum is the essential Dali site in Spain.

Here’s my guide to the Dali Theatre-Museum . You can visit Cadaques on a guided day trip from Barcelon a .

Romantic Carmona is a gem of an Andalusian town, only a half hour from Seville. It’s an ancient Roman fortified city loaded with ancient Roman ruins and three Moorish fortresses.

You enter via the 9th century splendid Puerta de Sevilla, or Seville Gate. You are immediately surrounded by noble palaces and majestic churches.

Carmona’s must see sites are the 15th century Church of Santa María la Mayor, the Alcázar de la Puerta de Sevilla, the Church of San Pedro, and the Plaza San Fernando in Carmona’s historic center. Climb the Torre del Oro at the Alcazar for stunning views.

When you’re done wandering through the incredibly picturesque old town, head to the Roman burial ground, Necropolis Romana, which is a must see site in Carmona.

Many of the tombs were built right into the rock and you can even enter some. It’s only open until 3:00 pm, so keep that in mind on your explorations.

READ : Best Day Trips From Seville

6. Cartagena

One of the prettiest and least touristed towns in Spain is Cartagena, in the province of Murcia. Although the harbor of Cartagena is a cuise ship gateway, there are very few tourists who actually plan their trips to Cartagena.

Hard to understand, because the city is absolutely gorgeous. Cartagena is an ancient town, founded by Hannibal, the Carthaginian general who defeated the Romans. In fact, this town’s first name was New Carthage. As you stroll through the town, you see plenty of Roman ruins.

The Roman Theatre is a must see attraction. There are also plenty of Neo-Baroque buildings around town that are considered some of the most beautiful ones in Spain. Just outside Cartagena is a hidden gem of a rocky beach, with impossibly blue- green water.

For a meal in Cartagena, try Restaurants La Catedral, with a view of the Roman ruins. You can simply live among the ruins, rather the taking a tour.

7. Castro Urdiales

The small, picturesque town of Castro Urdiales is located along the northern coast of Spain, in the region of Cantabria. It can be reached by car in 30 minutes from the Basque city of Bilbao.

In the center of Castro Urdiales stands the Town Hall Square, fronted by the castle-like Town Hall and surrounded by elegant porticoed arches. It’s the perfect place to stop for a coffee or lunch at one of the many cafes.

You can marvel at the Church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion. Built in the 13th century, this huge Gothic church is three floors high, constructed from pink stone, and outfitted with flying buttresses and towers.

READ : Best Day Trips From Bilbao

The town’s Medieval Bridge was built to provide better access to the Hermitage of Santa Ana. It’s a single ogival arch on top of a rocky outcrop, with the sea rushing in below.

It’s referred to as the “Roman Bridge,” but the bridge is Gothic and dates from medieval times. Refurbished over the last few years, visitors can still walk across it today.

Cross it and climb up to the Hermitage of Santa Ana. The hermitage stands on a rocky outcrop overlookings the sea. The current building dates from 1941.

However, it was constructed on the site of many previous buildings, which date as far back as the Upper Paleolithic period.

8. Comillas

The town of Comillas is known for its superb architecture. You’d never expect to find such treasures in an unassuming, almost unknown, small town in Cantabria Spain.

Comillas has two main sites, both architecturally interesting — Gaudi’s El Capricho and Sobrellano Palace. El Capricho is a rare Gaudi building outside his more well known Modernist architecture in Barcelona .

I like to think of El Capricho as Gaudi’s sunflower villa. El Capricho was a youthful project for Gaudi. In 1883, Maximo Diaz de Quijano commissioned Gaudi to build him a summer villa. Quijano, an amateur musician and botanist, chose the lilting name El Capricho, which means whim or folly in Spanish.

READ : Guide to Gaudi’s El Capricho

A short walk up the hill, you’ll find Sobrellano Palace. The over the top Neo-Gothic palace was commissioned by Antonio Lopez, the first Marques of Comillas, and designed by Juan Martorell.

The palace was a vanity project. It was the fashion for aristocrats to have fancy country estates. Interestingly, Sobrellano Palace was the first building in Spain to have electricity.

You can only visit the palace on a guided tour. There’s hourly tours (in Spanish) that last 40 minutes.

But you can cast your eyes on Gaudi-designed furniture, magnificent fireplaces, paintings, and stained glass. Outside the palace is a beautiful chapel-pantheon, also Gothic in design.

9. Cudillero

The ridiculously eye catching fishing village of Cudillero might be Spain’s prettiest seaside village. Cudillero is a hidden gem in Spain just 40 minutes from Oviedo in the Asturias region of Spain.

It’s well worth the detour to visit this hidden gem in Spain. A remote place of hills, you’ll have to park outside the teeny tiny town and walk in.

In Cudillero, white and pastel houses are piled in a mishmash on top of each other. There’s a pleasingly startling contrast between the terra cotta roofs and the blue sea. It’s said that each house in the village matches the color of the owner’s fishing boat.

You can dine on freshly caught seafood. I liked El Faro. Another good eatery is Opera. I filled up on octopus and mussels while there.

Cudillero has some secret beaches. And in its tight alleyways, there are some beautiful viewpoints where you can admire the colored houses and terra cotta roofs.

Undiscovered Cuenca is a dramatic UNESCO-listed medieval town in the region of Castilla la Mancha, the land of Don Quixote.

It’s an easy day trip from Madrid, the perfect spot to escape the hurly burly of the city.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid

Cuenca is home to the gravity defying “hanging houses.” They cling precipitously to the top of vertical cliffs, jutting into thin air between two river canyons. The best photo op is from the jaw dropping Puente de San Pablo, the bridge spanning a 130 foot gorge.

The main drag of Cuenca is Alfonso VIII Street, which is lined with colorful red, blue, and yellow houses. Plaza Mayor boasts an elegant ensemble of buildings, including the Anglo-Norman-Gothic styled Cuenca Cathedral.

There are plenty of walking routes just outside the city to keep your legs and lungs pumping.

Don’t miss the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art. It’s housed in a 15th century complex, with loads of gallery space. The permanent collection houses the works of Spanish modernists who lived in the area. You can also find some El Greco pieces in the Bishop’s Palace.

If you want to dine with views over the Huecar River gorge, try Figon del Huecar or Posada de San Jose’s Restaurant. Cuenca’s speciality is lamb.

You may want to book a guided walking tour of the medieval town for when you arrive. Or you can book a guided day trip from Madrid .

Frias is a tiny medieval town perched on a hill above the Erbo River.

Nestled within the province of Burgos, Frias is a village of fewer than 300 people that’s extraordinarily beautiful. The town is built on a rock called “the Molar,” giving it a dramatic silhouette.

Frias’ most important site is the 800 year old Frias Castle. This Gothic edifice, with some Romanesque traces, dates back to the 10th century.

The castle keep is the symbol of the hamlet. It’s a steep climb, and rather daunting in the heat.

From the castle, you can see Frias’ famous hanging houses. They’re wooden houses hanging over the gorge on the Molar. Don’t miss the Church of San Vicente and the Church of San Vitores.

The Gothic Bridge, with nine impressive arches, crosses the Ebro River and serves as the town’s entrance. Completing the tableaux are the town walls where two of three old gates are preserved.

12. Frigiliana

Nothing prepares you for the stunning beauty of Frigiliana, a pretty hidden gem in Spain. In Frigiliana, everything is beautiful in a way that it almost never is.

Frigiliana is a spotless, secluded, perfectly coifed cliff town dressed in blue and white. The houses are decorated with flowing orange and purple vines and potted blood red geraniums.

The Spanish tourist board voted Frigiliana the prettiest village in Andalusia, and and you can immediately see why. There are no must see sites or grand monuments in Frigiliana.

Frigiliana’s main attraction is its cobbled pedestrianized streets with whitewashed houses with colorful doors. There is a pathway through the middle of the village called the Calle Real. But you must stray off the path and investigate all the nooks and cranies.

For even better views, hike up to the ruins of the 16th century Castle of Izar. From the old town, you climb up long flights of steps, narrow paths, and gravel tracks to the site of the old castle overlooking the white village and the Mediterranean sea. You’ll also find signs warning you to be careful of rogue donkeys who might bite.

Here’s my guide to Frigiliana . You can visit the beautiful town on a guided day trip from Malaga .

13. Getaria

Getaria is one of the most charming towns on the Basque coast, jutting out into the sea with an attractive sandy beach (Gaztepe). It’s a pristine medieval fishing village with old world charm, stone houses, and gorgeous landscapes. You’ll have picture-perfect coastline views.

Getaria is home to the Basque regions’s signature drink, txakoli, a sparkling white wine. You can visit several wineries in and around the town. Getaria is also known for its seafood, particularly baby squid and turbot.

Getaria has a pretty Gothic church and is the birthplace of haute couture fashion icon Cristobal Balenciaga. There’s a museum dedicated to his life and work. You get there via an incongruous outdoor escalator at the outer edge of the town.

14. Grazalema

Grazalema is a pretty mountain village of Roma origin. It’s located at the foot of the Penon Grande in the valley of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. It’s completely different than Osuna or Ronda, more wild. It’s known as the wettest part of Spain.

The beautifully situated hidden gem village is splashed with whitewashed homes and surrounded by olive trees. I was there in February, so there was even a sprinkling of snow. I paused in the main square, the Plaza de España, which is lined with bars and restaurants, for a late lunch.

You can also visit Zahara de la Sierra, right next door to Grazalema. Like Grazalema, it’s streets are white, immaculate, and fairly deserted. Y

ou can climb up to the Arabic Tower of Tribute, though the pathway isn’t for the timid. The tower itself is nothing special, but the views are epic.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Andalusia

The tiny town of Guacin is in the south of Spain, just a 30 minute drive from the Costa del Sol. But the pretty place usually goes unnoticed. In Guacin, you can visit an off the beaten path medieval era village without the crowds.

Because of its romantic hilltop aerie, Guacin is nicknamed the “Balcony of Europe.” It’s also been dubbed the “Notting Hill” of Andalusia because it attracts so many Brits.

Park your car and explore sparkling Guacin by foot. The town is a tangle of steep hilly lanes and shady cobbled paths. On your stroll, you’ll find several lookout points.

Visit the Moorish Castle of the Eagle. Now mostly in ruins, the atmospheric pile dates back to Roman times. When you’re done exploring, there are quite a few quality cafes and restaurants. Try the popular Bar Pio Pepe or Platero & Co.

If you want to experience a typical Spanish cave district, head to the hidden gem of Guadix. You won’t encounter any other tourists.

The unique cathedral town of Guadix is a very off the beaten path destination in Andalusia . It’s only 45 minutes from Granada .

I went mostly to see the house caves or “cuevas.” Guadix’s inhabitants live in caves, with whitewashed chimneys set against the mountains. Close to the cave district, Barrio de Las Cuevas, you’ll have a viewpoint of the city and surrounding mountains.

Guadix also has a beautiful and imposing cathedral to explore, dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. And its alcazaba is the town’s best example of Moorish architecture.

17. Hondarribia

Tranquil Hondarribia is a pretty resort town located on the Spanish-French border in Basque country. The historic city center is surrounded by city walls and a drawbridge.

It’s filled with cobblestones streets and colorfully painted houses with flowers spilling out of flower boxes.

In the town center, you’ll find the Castle of Charles V (now a hotel), the Gothic Church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion, and plazas with al fresco cafes.

There’s also a nice beach, if you want to relax and swim. When hunger calls, this tiny village has two Michelin starred restaurants, Restaurante Alameda and Maison Eguiazabal.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Northern Spain

Huesca is a beautiful hidden gem town located in the Aragon region of northeast Spain. Huesca is perched atop a plateau at the foot of the Sierra da Guara Mountains.

The city has a distinctive profile. Its stone houses seem to tumble down the mountainside. Behind them, finger-lick rock formations create a picturesque backdrop.

Huesca’s cobbled streets are made for wandering. Huesca is also known for its historic churches and monasteries. The Monastery of San Pedro el Viejo is one of the oldest Romanesque churches in the region.

Huesca Cathedral is a mighty edifice, with a richly carved portal dating from 1300. Inside, there’s a 16th century alabaster altar. You can ascend the bell tower for 360 views of the countryside.

Despite being a small town, Huesca has three Michelin starred restaurants — Lila Pastia, Las Torres, and Tatau Bistro.

For tapas, head to Calle Padre, Huesca’s ebullient tapas bar strip. Restaurante Comomelocomo is a good choice there. For fancy tapas, head to Galatea de las Esteras, a Dali-themed establishment.

19. Italica

Less than a half hour from Seville lie the Roman ruins of Italica. The Romans founded Italica in 206 B.C. It’s reputedly the birthplace of three Roman Emperors — Hadrian, Trajan, and Theodosius.

The amphitheater once held 25,000 people, and was the third largest in the Roman Empire. Italica is now the modern day Santiponce. To safeguard the ruins, Santipoce has applied for UNESCO World Heritage status.

In the hit HBO show Game of Thrones, Italica serves as the dragon pit of Kings Landing, which was basically a stable for the Targaryen dragons. You can book a Game of Thrones tour from Seville .

READ : Best Day Trips from Seville

20. Laguardia

Pretty Laguardia is located in the Basque side of Rioja wine region, Rioja Alavesa. It’s a beautiful and atmospheric medieval town with loads of charm and quaint streets. The town was originally built as a fortification against Castilian aggression in the 12th century.

Despite its diminutive size, there’s still a good selection of places to stay and restaurants and wineries. The best restaurant is Restaurante Amelibia, where you can dine on traditional cuisine like oxtail and wild mushrooms.

Laguardia has a pretty church, the 14th century Santa Maria de los Reyes. For a view of the town itself and surrounding vineyards, climb the Torre Abacial. Dating from the 12th century, it was once part of a monastery.

A mile or so north of Laguardia is Bodegas Ysios, opened in 2001. It’s a boutique winery designed, in futuristic fashion, by famed (but controversial) architect Santiago Calatrava. It features a wavy aluminum roof and cedar siding.

21. Lekeitio

Laid back Lekeitio is a beautiful and tiny fishing village. Lekeitio is one of Spain’s best kept secrets, a real hidden gem.

It has an idyllic harbor, a Gothic church, and a fine golden crescent beach where you can kick back and wile away a day. You’ll see goats and sheep cavort in the mountains and hazy cliffs circled by seagulls.

Lekeitio’s best attraction is the rocky island, San Nicholas Island (also known as Garraitz). It’s just offshore of the main beach. During low tide, you can walk the trail for a seaside view.

Have dinner at Meson Arropain, which, as you might expect, serves up fantastic seafood. Or try a local’s favorite, Taberna Bar Lumentza for pintxos (the Basque version of tapas).

22. Montefrio

Montefrio is a charming village in the province of Granada. Its name translates to “the cold hill.” This small town cuts a striking silhouette against the surrounding landscape. National Geographic named it one of the world’s best views.

Perched atop a craggy outcrop of rock is the town’s 14th century church, Iglesia de la Villa. It was built on the remains of a Nasrid castle. Those who brave the steep climb to the top of the rock will be rewarded with panoramic views of the region.

Visit the town’s pretty churches. The round church, Iglesia de la Encarnacion, was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome .

Just outside the tiny town, you’ll find the Montefrio Dolmens, megalithic structures dotted among the lush green landscape.

23. Morella

Situated within Castellon region of Spain, Morella is a grand old town that’s still a hidden gem in Spain. It sits on a rocky cleft with a towering castle and crumbling medieval walls.

Make sure to head inside Morella Castle, built by the Moors. Though a bit of a ruin, it’s worth the long wiggly ascent just for the breathtaking views of the countryside.

You can also visit the Basilica de Santa Maria la Mayor. It’s an imposing Gothic basilica. it features elaborately sculpted doors and a carved polychrome stone staircase that leads to an ornate altar. An onsite museum houses the church’s treasures.

When you’re done wandering, indulge in Morella’s culinary treats. Morella is known for its artisan baked goods and fortified wine. For a proper meal, try Casa Roque or Daluan.

Onati is reminiscent of Seville, Andalusia’s sultry capital. It lies in a valley in the Basque region surrounded by mountains.

Onati has lavishly decorated Gothic and Baroque buildings and a mystical medieval atmosphere. The town’s highlight is its ancient university. The town center is buzzing with eateries, a Gothic church, and the Church of San Miguel Arcangel.

Just outside Onati is the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, an old Franciscan monastery. It’s of huge importance in the region and perched at the very top of a winding mountain road. Near the sanctuary, you’ll find one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the area, Zelai Zabal.

Not far from the sanctuary are the Arrikrutz Caves. They are home to several extinct species including cave lions.

The hidden gem town of Osuna surprised me. I visited the pristine town for its dashing bullring, which is one of Andalusia’s Game of Thrones filming locations .

But Osuna itself was beyond adorable, a charming white pueblo village with a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Osuna was declared a Historic-Artistic site in 1967.

There’s row upon row of white stucco homes and streets dotted with orange trees. Once a ducal seat, Osuna’s a veritable art gallery, with a plethora of Renaissance and Baroque churches.

UNESCO lists Osuna’s main drag, the Calle San Pedro, as the second most beautiful street in Europe . Here, with an eye toward social climbing, Osuna’s wealthy dukes vied to create the most exquisite palaces. The street would be more appealing, however, if it was pedestrianized.

For the full scoop on the town, here’s my complete guide to visiting Osuna.

26. Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is the jewel of Cantabria and one of the prettiest villages in Spain. It’s a “living museum” — a delightful warren of dreamy cobbled streets, caramel colored architecture, and romantic wrought iron balconies.

At the end of its main pedestrianized drag is the Collegiate Church, the most important religious Romanesque monument in Cantabria. The big draw is the cloister, a repository of Romanesque architectural elements. You can also visit a rather grisly Torture Museum.

The Altamira Caves aren’t far afield. They boast some of the best examples of prehistoric art anywhere in the world, made by Cro-Magnon cave people.

No one except researchers can visit the actual caves, for preservation reasons. But the astonishing replica caves accept weekly visitors by lottery.

READ : Complete Guide to Santillana del Mar

27. Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas is one of Andalusia’s true hidden gems. Located in the Cadiz province, Setenil de las Bodegas is a unique white village. The town was built inside a canyon, rather than on top of a hill.

Many of the houses in the village are in fact caves, with facades that resemble regular buildings. Some of the streets in Setenil are covered with large boulders. It’s intriguing and perhaps a tad scary to walk underneath them.

There are plenty of things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas, from exploring the village to visiting the last remaining tower of a once mighty castle. You can have lunch is cave restaurant. Or, scope out the best viewpoints overlooking the village.

While Setenil can get popular around lunchtime, it’s usually very quiet otherwise. Setenil de las Bodegas can be visited as a day trip from Malaga, Cadiz, and Seville. The driving time is around 1.5 hours from each of those cities.

28. San Vicente de la Barquera

The beautiful village of San Vicente de la Barquera had my heart at first sight. The drive toward the town is breathtaking. The ancient Puente de la Maza, with its 28 arches over the river, welcomes you. A walk across the bridge is a good way to see the town.

The pretty village dates from Roman times. For centuries, San Vicente de la Barquera was a stop on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

Step back in history at the Castillo del Rey, San Vicente’s 13th century medieval castle. From atop the hill, you have beautiful views of the town and, on a clear day, the Picos de Europe mountain range.

San Vicente also has some interesting churches, beautiful beaches, and a beautiful estuary of brightly colored boats. While there, you’ll love the seafood. The town’s speciality are a stew prepared with tuna and potatoes and another with bonito, pepper, onion, and potatoes.

29. Valladolid

Valladolid is the charming capital of the Castille-Leon region, about 2 hours from Madrid. It’s surrounded by vineyards and known as the “Sonoma of Spain,” making it a great spot for oenophiles.

Valladolid has some impressive architecture to boot. The Cathedral of Valladolid dates from the 16th century. It’s stately facade was added in the 18th century, by the same architect behind the royal estate of El Escorial.

Plaza San Pablo also has some stunning buildings, including San Pablo Church, Pimentel Palace, and Casa Museo Jose Zorrilla.

If you’re a literary buff, a must do in Valladolid is a visit to the House of Cervantes. The author lived in this 16th century abode from 1604-06. There, he wrote his most famous book, Don Quixote de La Mancha . The period rooms are perfectly preserved.

Valladolid also boasts some of Spain’s best tapas bars. Go on a tapas crawl or settle in at Villa Parmesa.

30. Vejer de la Frontera

Situated on a commanding bluff overlooking the Barbate River, Vejer de la Frontera is incredibly picturesque — bright, colorful, and cheerful. It’s impossible to resist driving the side road snaking up to Vejer.

Within the town, the narrow steep streets run through banks of stark white houses whose Arabic origins are evident everywhere. Vejer is a Moorish town with graceful concessions to 21st century Spain.

It 1805, Lord Nelson defeated the Spanish and French fleets off Cape Trafalgar. This Atlantic proximity gives Vejer both a distinctive white town atmosphere and strong westerly winds sweeping over its walls and monuments.

At the center of the town, a walled enclosure with four Arabic horseshoe gates contains the 16th century church of San Salvador, built over a mosque. Nearby is a Moorish castle and the Palace of the Marques de Tamaron.

Close to the ramparts, near the Paseo de las Corbijadas, is the well-conserved Jewish Quarter. The area within the ramparts includes many small shops, cafes, and is best seen on foot. The town has magnificent vistas in all directions from its walls.

If you want to splurge, Vejer has a reasonably priced Michelin restaurant, El Jardin del Califa. It’s housed in a 16th century building that feels like a castle dungeon. It also has a pretty patio garden worthy of a caliphate.

31. Villajoyosa

If you like color, Villajoyosa is the place for you. Villajoyosa is an extremely colorful city along Spain’s Costa Blanca in the Alicante region.

Like other colorful towns in Europe, buildings on the promenade were painted bright colors so fishermen trying to find their way home could see them.

These days, the bright colors make great photo opportunities. The town’s location on the coast also means there’s a gorgeous beach with silky smooth sand, Central Beach. Another beach, Paradise Beach, is just off the center with a quieter vibe.

Villajoyosa was the birthplace of Spain’s famous Valor Chocolate. In 1998, the company opened a chocolate museum in the town.

In terms of food, Villajoyosa has one Michelin restaurant, Emperador. You can also try Casa Elordi or T-Class.

32. Zarautz

If you’ve satisfied yourself with San Sebastian’s chic beaches or want something less crowded, drive just 15 minutes to another pretty beach town, Zarautz.

Zarautz was once the preferred vacation spot of Spanish royalty in the Basque region. It’s much more laid back than San Sebastian.

The town’s claim to fame is its 1.5 miles long wide beach, dubbed the “Queen of the Beaches.” It’s the longest beach in Basque Spain.

Zarautz also has a nice old quarter. You can inspect some of its interesting architecture, including the parish church of Santa Maria de La Real, the Narros Palace, and Torre Iuzea.

If you want to grab a bite to eat in Zarautz, the speciality is squid with onion. Try dining at Kirkilla-Enea Jatetxea, Otzarreta, or Okamika.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the secret hidden gem towns of Spain. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• Most Beautiful Places in Andalusia
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid To Seville
• 10 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary From Barcelona to Bilbao
• 3 Day Itinerary for Seville
• 3 Day Itinerary for Barcelona
• One Day in Granada itinerary
• 40+ Landmarks in Barcelona
• 2 Day Itinerary for Bilbao
• 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
• Famous Landmarks in Spain

If you’d like to discover off the beaten path towns in Spain, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “Undiscovered Spain: 30+ Hidden Gems In Spain”

Thanks for this great info!

You’re welcome!

You have not chosen a single place in Galicia, probably the most beautiful region of the Iberian Peninsula. Although well, maybe it’s better this way, so that it remains a secret paradise.

I haven’t been there yet! But it’s definitely on my bucket list.

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Last Updated on March 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Opening hours: monday to sunday — 10am to 8pm, address: passeig dels castanyers, 1, 08035 barcelona, spain, metro station: valldaura, bosc urbà in barcelona.

Bosc Urbà in Barcelona – by Bosc Urbà – Uploaded by them

Opening Hours: Call for Hours

Address: parc del forum, s/n, 08019 barcelona, spain, montjuïc’s cactus garden in barcelona.

Cactus Garden – by Jorge Franganillo – Wikimedia Commons

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 10am to 9pm

Address: ctra. de miramar, 38, 08038 barcelona, spain, metro station: paral-lel.

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Discover the most beautiful secret destinations

Spain's most beautiful secret destinations

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Come and discover the most beautiful hidden gems in Spain . Add these secret destinations to your bucket list; they are away from the beaten tracks and big cities and are known only to passionate travellers and locals.

Enjoy the sun and the sweet life of Cadaqués where Salvator Dali used to live with his wife,his  muses and his friends such as Marcel Duchamp. Stroll through an authentic fishing village and  visit Calella de Palafrugell. Succumb to the charm of the city of Ronda or isolate yourself on the island of Bermeo.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price. We suggest thousands of accommodations available in the best hidden gems of Spain as well as the best tours and activities in Spain for an unforgettable stay in Spain .

1. Setenil de las Bodegas

Andalusia is one of the most beautiful regions of Spain. Seville , Malaga , Cordoba , Cadiz are perfect for a gastronomic, cultural  or relaxing city break or an afternoon on the beautiful beaches of Nerja or for a visit to  the "Spanish Wild West", the Tabernas desert in Almeria (ranked among the best film locations in Europe ). But Andalusia is also full of beauties and hidden treasures for those who  love venturing off the beaten path. 

This little village of white houses is amazing: many astute people decided to build their houses under a huge rock  to avoid paying for new roofs which cost an arm and a leg. Nearly 3000 inhabitants live in this picturesque and very surprising village. The village of Setenil de las Bodegas is worth a visit and is only 20 kilometres from Ronda, another hidden gem of this beautiful province.

Book your flights to Malaga or Jerez  (1H30 by car),  your accommodation at the best price , your  tours and activities in Andalusia   such as a " Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas tour ".

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Malaga or Jerez  (1H30 by car),

  Where to stay:   If you want to stay in the heart of this village, book at " Casa entre rocas " with a view to the huge rock. 

2. Calella de Palafrugell

Costa Brava

This is one of the best hidden gems in Spain and a perfect destination for those who want to escape from Barcelona and enjoy an afternoon of idleness in a sublime old fishing village also famous for the beauty of its coves and small beaches. With its intact architecture, Calella de Palafrugell is one of the most beautiful villages in the Costa Brava .

Book your flights to Barcelona and your accommodation at the best price in Barcelona or Calella de Palafrugell .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Barcelona.

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Alga " just 200 m from Calella de Palafrugell Beach. 

3. Agüero - Huesca

This incredible village surrounded by gigantic 200m high rock formations is one of the best hidden gems in Spain .

The mountains of "Los Mallos" are appreciated by climbers but also by photographers and instagramers looking for unique places in the world. Be sure to visit the 12th century Santiago church and marvel at its magnificent stained glass windows depicting scenes from the bible. Stroll through the village to discover the best spots to take photos of this exceptional place.

Stay in Agüero in mid-August and join in the city festival with street entertainment, theatre, music, good food and good wine.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Huesca Airport (50 min by car from Agüero).

  Where to stay:  “ Hotel Sancho Abarca ”. The hotel offers massage services and a spa.

This small village, located 30 minutes from Malaga , is one of Andalusia's best hidden gems. Mijas is not that small  but a rather large municipality located on the heights of Torremolinos, in the south of Spain.

The most beautiful part of this hidden gem is the old Mijas " Mijas cidade velha ". Mijas is recognizable by its white facades with thousands of geraniums hanging on the walls. It's a perfect place for instagramers.

Book your flights to Malaga  (20min by car), your accommodation in Malaga or Mijas and your tours and activities in Andalusia such as a private tour of Mijas from Malaga .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Malaga (20 min by car) as well as your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " TRH Mijas ", a charming Andalusian style hotel.

5. San Andres

Santa Cruz - Tenerife

San Andres is a charming village just a few kilometres from Santa Cruz of  Tenerife  on the Canary Islands. San Andres is not just charming, it is also the oldest village on Tenerife island.

If you are not an architecture or history enthusiast, San Andres is also the good place for you: the village faces Las Teresitas beach, the most  beautiful golden sandy beach  in Tenerife; it is perfect for relaxing after a visit in the village of San Andres.

How to get there : Book your  flight tickets  and  accommodation at the best price  in Tenerife today for a dream holiday on the Spanish islands.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Tenerife.

  Where to stay:  " Jardin de la Paz ". Top location, highly rated by recent guests.

6. Cudillero

 We visited this beautiful village during a road trip to Asturias, one of the most beautiful regions in Spain . We advise you to book your flights to Asturias Airport or San Sebanstian, rent a car and explore this region.

Take time to make several stops in Bilbao , Bermeo, Playa de Torimbia, Santander, Ribadeo, Vigo (a beautiful city famous for the beauty of the Cies Islands beaches that face the city). 

Cudillero is one of Spain's most secret destinations and one of the most beautiful fishing villages in Asturias. It's the equivalent of " Cinque Terre " in Spain. A small fishing village with typical houses with colourful facades.

Take time and wait for the 17 o’clock fishing boats to buy your fish and cook it. If you are not a great cook  we recommend the restaurants located in the main square of the village.

Book your flights to Asturias Airport (15 min by car), accommodation at the best price and treat yourself to a road trip to discover the best hidden gems in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Asturias Airport (15 min by car).

  Where to stay:  " Casona de la Paca ". Set in the beautiful fishing village of Cudillero.

7. Portocolom

 Portocolom is one of the most beautiful seaside resorts in Europe and one of the best hidden gems of the Balearic Islands. Located in the south-east of the island of Mallorca , a wild part of the island where nature is preserved, Portocolom is a perfect destination for travellers looking for the most beautiful secret destinations for their holidays. The beach of "Cala Marsal" and its turquoise blue waters are only 800 metres from Portocolom.

Book your flights to Palma de Mallorca  (50 min by car), your accommodation at the best possible price and enjoy the best  tours and activities in Mallorca such as a North Coast catamaran cruise with lunch .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Palma de Mallorca (50 min by car).

  Where to stay:  ' Orange Colom - Seaside Apartments ' have a swimming pool on the seafront.

 Rewarded by travellers around the world as one of Europe's best hidden gems, Ronda is also one of Spain's most beautiful secret destinations .

Ronda is one of the pearls of Spanish tourism, a destination visited each year by travellers looking for destinations off the beaten track. Only 1h20 from Malaga city centre, Ronda is a perfect destination for a day trip to the most beautiful places of Andalusia.

Book your flights to Malaga , your accommodation at the best price in Malaga or Ronda and your best tours and activities in Andalusia such as a day-trip to Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas , another hidden gems of Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Malaga and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  " Catalonia Ronda " located in Ronda Town Centre, this hotel has an infinity pool and a rooftop terrace.

9. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is one of the best hidden gems of the Costa Brava and one of the most beautiful secret destinations in Spain.

Because you are not like the others, because spending 5 days in Barcelona is nice but you need to discover new landscapes, new places, we advise you to treat yourself to a  short break to Tossa de Mar.

Located just 1:30 from the centre of Barcelona, Tossa de Mar seems unreal: several fine golden sand beaches and a magnificent medieval castle await you. A sweet scent of  pine trees is floating in the beautiful fishing village. Tossa de Mar is a destination to put on top of your travel bucket list if you want to discover the most beautiful places in Spain.

Book your flights to Barcelona  (1h20 by car), your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Costa Brava such as a " Best of Costa Brava with boat ride and Tossa Visit ".

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Barcelona (1h20 by car).

  Where to stay:  " Gran Hotel Reymar & Spa Superior ", a beautiful seafront hotel. 

10. Cala Figuera

Only 60 kilometres from the capital, Palma de Mallorca , Cala Figuera is a small corner of paradise; it is quiet and unspoilt from mass tourism. The lack of large beaches makes this small fishing village one of the quietest places on the island of Mallorca in summer.

Book your flights to Palma de Mallorca (50 min by car), your accommodation at the best price and your activities & tours  in Mallorca such as a " 4-hour private wine tour with tasting & tapas ".

  Where to stay:  " Hostal Restaurante Cala ". Couples particularly like the location.

Gargamel was an alchemist who tried hard in all his life to find the Smurfs’ village; those little blue creatures were essential in his recipe to turn lead into gold. What he did not know is that  the village of Smurfs is located in Andalusia .

The village of Juzcar (2 hours from Malaga airport) was once a beautiful village of white houses. A " pueblo blanco " as there are many in the south of Spain. Some tourists used to visit the village, but other destinations like Mijas, with its beautiful geraniums hanging on the facades, used to attract many more travellers.

For the filming of the film "The Smurfs" all the houses in the village of Juzcar were painted in blue by the film crew, with the promise of repainting all in white once the shoot was over. The locals quickly realized that being the only blue village in the middle of a region full of white villages was interesting to attract more travellers. So they decided to keep their houses painted blue.

Before the shooting of the film, only about 300 tourists used to visit Juzcar each year, they are now more than 60,000 a year now!

Book your  flights to Malaga  (2h by car) and your  accommodation  at the best price in Andalusia.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Malaga (2h by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Bandolero ", a charming boutique hotel featuring a swimming pool, for both humans and smurfs.

12. Cadaqués

While walking in the alleys of Cadaqués you have the feeling that Salvator Dali ’s soul is still hanging. In fact, Dali used to live in "Portlligat", very near Cadaquès. It was his only residence since he used to stay in hotels. His house in Portlligat is a museum now and is well worth a visit; you can’t miss it: there’s a giant egg on top of the roof! The egg was the symbol of renewal for Dali.

Discover  Salvator Dali’s favourite refuge, his muses, his close friends like Marcel Duchamp while walking in the streets of Cadaques and Portlligat.

Book your flights to Girona (1 hour by car) or Barcelona (2 hours by car), your accommodation at the best price in Cadaques and your tours and activities such as a " full-day Salvator Dali tour from Barcelona ".

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Girona (1 h by car) or Barcelona (2h).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Sol Ixent ", set in the beautiful Cap de Creus National Park.

13. Puerto de la Cruz

The Canary Islands are the ideal destination for sun lovers throughout the year.

Puerto de la Cruz, located north of the island of Tenerife, is one of Spain's best hidden gems . It is a must-see destination during your stay on the island of Tenerife . If Puerto de la Cruz is visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, this beautiful destination has not lost its charm with its traditional restaurants, fishing boats, ... a real postcard.

Book your flights to Tenerife  (1h by car), your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Tenerife .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Tenerrife (1h min by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Botanico y Oriental Spa Garden ". This hotel offers 3 outdoor pools and luxurious accomodation.

Overlooking the province of Cadiz , Olvera is one of Andalusia's best hidden gems and one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

Olvera is not just another white village in Andalusia, it is a must-see destination for lovers of history, tradition and authenticity. Do not miss to visit  its castle and church or for the greedy ones, to taste the best olive oil in Andalusia ! The name of this hidden gem "Olvera" comes from the very large number of olive trees planted in this region.

Book your flights to Malaga airport (1h15 by car) and your tours and activities in Andalusia such as a " Pueblos Blancos" full-day trip .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Malaga Airport (1h15 by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Monte Puertatierra ",( 100 m from Santa Maria del Mar beach).

Soller is the most beautiful village on the island of Mallorca. Surrounded by mountains, it is quiet, relaxing and perfect for a family holiday. Although the location is isolated, Soller is well connected to  Palma de Mallorca , (30 minutes from  the airport ) by many lines of trams and buses.

If you like nature, hiking, gastronomy, Soller is for you.

Book your flights to Mallorca (40 min by car).  Book your accommodation  today at the best price and your  best activities  in Mallorca.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Mallorca (40 min by car).

  Where to stay:  " Can Roses hotel "; it is a paradise on earth and just 5 minutes walk from the centre.

16. Peniscola

Not surprisingly,  Peniscola  is one of your  best hidden gems in Spain  because this destination is also one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Peniscola  is three hours drive from  Barcelona .

Discover the castle of Pope Luna, the ancient fortifications of Pensicola, its nature reserve and enjoy the Mediterranean climate with very mild temperatures in winter and more than 300 days of sunshine a year.

Book your flights to Barcelona (2 hours by car).   Book your accommodation  today at the best price in Peniscola as well as your tours & activities in Spain .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Barcelona (2h by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel RH Portocristo " with superb views of the sea and the castle of Peniscola.

Deia, located on the island of  Mallorca  in the Balearic Islands is a small hidden gem located west  of the island. The place is visited each year by travellers from around the world.

Enjoy sumptuous scenery, unspoiled nature, tasty and healthy cuisine in Deia, near Soller (another great destination for a quiet holiday on the island of Mallorca). Deia has always been an artist village ( Pierce Brosnan and Michael Douglas use to spend their holidays there ).

In the area lie the famous Tramuntana Mountains, where you can take a  scenic tour with Historic Railway Ride .

Book your flights to Mallorca (40 min). Book your accommodation today at the best price in Deia.

  Where to stay:  " Belmond La Residencia " for an unforgettable holiday.

18. Pirate Cave Poris de Candelaria in Tijarafe 

La Palma - Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are one of the favourite destinations of travellers looking for sun and warm sea all year round. Few, however, have heard about "Pirate cave Poris of Candalaria" near the town of Tijarafe on La Palma island. The hiking trail is 12 kilometres long.

Book your flights to Tenerife  + a domestic flight or ferry to La Palma, your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in the Canary Islands .

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to La Palma or Tenerife + a domestic flight.

  Where to stay:  " Casa Felimar ". Boasting sea views.

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20 Hidden gems in Spain | Off-the-beaten-path destinations worth visiting

Spain is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. It has an incredible history, delicious food, welcoming people and some of the most charming villages you’ll ever visit.

I’ve already written an article about the most beautiful villages in Europe but in this post I want to talk about 20 hidden gems in Spain that you should add to your itinerary when visiting this stunning country. Let’s get to it!

Top 20 Spain hidden gems

1. arcos de la frontera.

If you love to travel for historical and cultural purposes or you’re always seeking new breathtaking scenery, then Arcos de la Frontera (Andalucia) is totally worth your attention! 

As one of the non-touristy places in Spain, you might not know that Arcos de la Frontera was declared a national historic monument, thanks to its spectacular architecture, which combines Christian and Muslim elements. More than that, nearby is a lake where you can enjoy many exciting water activities.

Located in Basque Country, which is famous for its specific geology, Zumaia has an important place on Spain’s hidden gems list. Although it’s not as popular as San Sebastian, for example, Zumaia is considered one of the most important geological sanctuaries in the world, covering more than 4000 hectares of both land and sea. 

Before planning your next successful trip to Spain , you should know a few things about the flysch natural phenomenon, found in Zumaia. The “flysch” refers to a rock formation created through the combination of different sediments. To enjoy an unforgettable and picturesque sunset, I recommend you visit Sakoneta beach.

3. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

One of the less-known places in Spain is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a beautiful island located in the northern part of the country. To get to it, you’ll have to cross a bridge with breathtaking views and climb no less than 241 steps. You might recognize this island from the famous Game of Thrones TV series where it was portrayed as Dragonstone Fortress.

Once you reach the island, you can admire the Chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which has an incredible legend. If you ring its bell three times, you can make a wish. What do you think, do you believe in legends?

4. Olvera, Andalucia

Although it’s not as famous as Seville, Cordoba or Granada, Olvera could be a great destination for you if you want to (re)visit the southern part of Spain and you’d prefer to enjoy a quiet holiday. 

Located in the Province of Cádiz, Olvera is known for its historical and cultural gems, such as Castillo de Olvera or Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación church. As you see, this destination could be perfect for you especially if you are looking for secret places in Spain with a lot of history. So, it’s time to put on your anthropologist hat and prepare for the next cultural adventure in your life! 

5. Beget, Girona

When it comes to the most beautiful secret villages in Spain, Beget is surely worth a mention. Located at the source of the Llierca River, Beget is one of those picturesque Spanish villages in which you’ll discover many streets similar to those you probably read about in childhood novels. Once you get to Beget, you’ll immediately notice the small houses’ balconies decorated with a lot of colorful flowers. 

More than that, here you’ll be able to visit the Church of San Cristóbal de Beget, which was declared an Asset of National Interest or enjoy hiking/biking – Beget’s natural surroundings are simply amazing. 

6. El Rocio

If you’re simply in love with the small, but lively towns’ charm, then you must add El Rocio to your itinerary! Located in the center of Donana Park, El Rocio is one of the hidden places in Spain which perfectly combines the picturesque landscapes, the regional Andalusian food and the well-known Romeria del Rocio (which is considered the most traditional Spanish religious festival). 

So, whether you get used to traveling for cultural purposes or you adore discovering new, but not-so-popular beautiful scenery, you must visit El Rocio at least once in your lifetime. 

7. Taganana, Tenerife

Tenerife is a beautiful island with a lot to offer. As I’m always looking for off-the-beaten path destinations whenever I’m traveling, I discovered Taganana during my trip to Tenerife.

Tourism is not very well developed in the area and only a few people reach this remote part of the island. However, I loved the nearby Benijo Beach and the views surrounding Taganana. Everything about this place is wild and still untouched.

8. Antequera

Antequera is one of the most impressive destinations I’ve ever seen and it has many exciting and diverse experiences to offer. For example, here you can visit the Alcazaba, a spectacular Moorish fortress built in the 14th century that will most probably delight you with its interior architecture. 

Besides visiting the Alcazaba and Antequera Dolmens Site (which is classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site), I totally recommend you try the delicious mollette, a famous Spanish type of bread that you can fill with anything that pampers your taste buds. 

9. La Alberca

When it comes to the most lively off-the-beaten-path places in Spain, La Alberca, situated in the western region of the country, is worth a special mention. Here are just a few relaxing activities you should try when visiting La Alberca:

• enjoy a good coffee at a small and cosy restaurant; 
• visit Plaza Mayor (the most vivid place in the village);
• simply admire the stone and granite houses, while walking on the narrow streets (by the way, I’m sure you’ll take some good instagrammable pictures of the numerous balconies decorated with flowers).

10. Alcalá del Júcar

Did someone ask about the most beautiful Spanish landscapes? Yes? Well, if you’re looking for places that highlight the beauty of nature, then you must see Alcalá del Júcar, a unique destination that will delight both your eyes and your traveler’s heart. 

Placed on a sloped rock with views towards Jucar River and having a Roman bridge crossing it, Alcalá del Júcar is an incredible destination. You can visit the castle and enjoy the splendid panoramic view or you can spend the night in one of the guesthouses built in caves.

11. Albarracin

Voted as the most beautiful small town in Spain several times, Albarracin gives you the feeling that you’re living in a fairytale. Therefore, if you love those trips that make you feel like you’re escaping reality (at least for a few hours), you should add Albarracin to your bucket list. 

Wandering through the paved streets, while simply admiring the peachy-colored houses, is probably more than enough for delighting your soul. Anyhow, if you want to also visit some tourist attractions, here are my recommendations: Casa de la Julianeta, Casa de la Calle Azagra, Playa Mayor and Torre del Andador.

12. Cudillero

As you’ve already seen, there are A LOT of impressive hidden gems in Spain, but I must admit that only a few of them are perfect for remote work. Cudillero is surely one of the best options if you want to travel, relax and work remotely during the same holiday.

How would such a day look in Cudillero? Well, imagine you’d wake up and go to a coffee shop (or maybe a cosy restaurant) from where you’d admire the lively people passing by. In the afternoon, maybe you’d order delicious seafood or visit some historical sites, such as Cudillero Lighthouse Cabo Vidio, La Garita or La Atalaya. 

Many cultural sites and beautiful streets to wander – this would be the perfect description for Potes, another hidden gem in Spain that is worth your attention. 

Strategically placed at the confluence of four valleys, Potes hides a fascinating history. For example, you should know that the old town was almost completely destroyed by a fire, during the Spanish Civil War, in the late 30s. Even after the rebuilding, Potes is keeping its specific medieval atmosphere, so I’m sure that you’ll come back home with a lot of memories and cool pictures. 

14. Picos de Europe

Someone said ‘hiking’? Was it you? Well, I have very good news! Picos de Europe is surely one of the most impressive places in Spain for hiking.

Some of the best trails include Bajo Los Picos Trail, an easy 9-km trail, Vega de Ario Plane, a moderate trail for more advanced hikers and Ruta de Torres de Orcado Rojos. No matter which trail you choose, you’ll be welcomed with breathtaking views and stunning natural wonders.

15. Porto Colom Mallorca

Situated in the south-east of the well-known Mallorca island, Porto Colom is surely one of the most beautiful hidden European gems and one of the most colorful cities in Europe.

Besides the natural beauty you will find here, Porto Colom amazes tourists around the world with its traditional cuisine and the Cala Marcal Beach. However, if you prefer less crowded beaches, you should know that there are plenty of options for you too.  

When it comes to small Spanish towns that are still keeping a medieval atmosphere, Besalu is surely one of them. Nowadays, its medieval vibe is completed by the multitude of coffee shops and artisan shops – especially found in the center of the town, which is also known as Placa de la Lliberat. 

Here are a few of the historical places that are worth a visit when going to Besalu: Sant Vicente (considered one of the most important Romanesque churches) and The Church Of Sant Pere, also known as Saint Peter. 

17. Cala Figuera Mallorca

Cala Figuera, a picturesque fishing port located in the southern part of Santanyí, is another hidden gem in Mallorca. The amazing harbor, the utterly beautiful turquoise water and the rich history (by the way, the town was first documented in the 14th century) are just three reasons why you should visit Cala Figuera. Besides them, you should also take into account the delicious Mediterranean gastronomy and, of course, the budget-friendly hotels.

18. Comillas

Are you a fan of spectacular architecture? Then you have all the reasons in the world to add Comillas to your future travel destinations list. Although it’s a small village, Comillas has two main superb sites: Gaudi’s El Capricho and Sobrellano Palace.

Now, a small history pill: El Capricho is a summer villa built by Gaudi for his wealthy client, Maximo Diaz. Unfortunately, he didn’t get to enjoy it, because he died a year before the construction was finished. 

Juzcar has a specific atmosphere that’ll somehow remind you of your childhood. Juzcar is known as Smurfs Village, because of the blue houses found here. By the way, did you know that all the houses were painted blue for The Smurfs movie? Although they were initially white, the locals decided to keep them blue, thanks to tourists’ increasing interest in this destination.

Would you like to experience – at least a few nights – in a Smurf house? I have great news: for this, all you have to do is to book a hotel room in Juzcar! 

20. Masca, Tenerife

Tenerife is well-known for its beautiful beaches and for its breathtaking scenery that includes the majestic Teide Volcano, but few know the little village of Masca. Tuked away between abrupt valleys and dense vegetation in the northern part of the island, Masca is an incredible destination for those looking for off-the-beaten track destinations in Spain.

The village only has about 100 inhabitants and the road to reach it is not for the faint-hearted. However, once you reach Masca you’ll be delighted to see one of the best views in Tenerife!

Final thoughts

Spain is one of the most colorful destinations in the world , a place perfect for history buffs and fun-loving travelers alike. There are many secret destinations in Spain that are worth mentioning, but I did my best to select the best 20 of them.

Which is your favorite place in Spain? Do you know any hidden gems worth visiting? Let me know in the comments section below. May the travel bug bite you!

Pin it for later!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Hi there. You should try Ronda, Andalusia. It’s beautiful

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7 Unique Places In Spain To Visit (And Avoid The Crowds!)

Planning on going on a trip to Spain? Don’t want to feel like you’re being herded in a sea of tourists? You’re not alone!

While there’s a lot to see in Spain – which explains the heavy tourism – there are certain places in the country that very little tourism has touched on. So, if you want to escape the typical tourist sites in Spain , then consider visiting these seven rare places instead:

1. Bunol – Valencia

The charming town of Buñol ( pronounced Boonyol ), close to Valencia, is situated on the Buñol river and surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of several mountain ranges.

The sleepy borough spans across a total area of about 112 km² and is most well known for hosting the  La Tomatina Tomato Festival .

2. The Kings Walk – Camino del Rey - Malaga

Known as the King's Walk, this unusual walkway is one for the adrenalin junkies as it has been named one of the worlds scariest footpaths.

The pathway is located an hour's drive from Malaga city on the Costa del Sol .

Built-in 1905, it was closed in 1999 after five people lost their lives, fortunately, though it was reopened in 2015 as a slightly safer walk.

3. Elche - Valencia

One of the most unknown cities in Spain, Elche is a place where the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palmeral , or Palm Grove is. The Palm Grove consists of many date palm orchards (97 separate orchards, totalling around 70,000 trees), which may have been around since the time of the Phoenician traders in around 500 BC from present-day Lebanon.

Besides the Grove, Elche has an abundant local culture to immerse yourself in for one or two days. It’s a year-round destination to consider if you want to enjoy Spain without the heavy tourist traffic.

Almería is a historic realm in Spain. The Alcazaba of Almería is a sight to behold, with its castle walls, shady courtyards, bathing areas, and gardens.

The best part is that there are no long lines; just come whenever you want, especially on Sundays!

5. Castillo De Butron - Viscaya

Another castle to see, the Castillo de Butron is a medieval castle located in the northern part of Spain.

Its medieval ambience makes it look like you’re walking into a fairytale, even when its Bavarian-styled architecture might say otherwise.

Even a walk around the premises can give you that fairytale experience, as you spectate different parts of the castle, which towers about the forest.

6. Cabo De Gata - Almeria

Just outside of the coastal city of Almería , Cabo de Gata is a natural park known by locals for its volcanic rock at the edge of the beach, the natural park lets you move by car or on foot to get to the volcanic rock.

Near the beaches and trails, you’ll see small towns left and right, like Níjar and Las Negras which serve as the junction that brings all the towns together. Here, locals are more than welcome to teach you some Spanish, in regards to conversations, mannerisms, slang, and so on.”

7. Calella De Palafrugell - Catalonia

Finally, Calella de Palafrugell sits in the province of Girona , Spain. While people may head over to the beach at Malaga, you can secretly go to Calella de Palafrugell to enjoy a quiet beach with a lovely ocean view, while with an array of small fishing boats and houses sprinkling the landscape. It’s the ideal place for those who love to sail or fish (or both!).

As you can see, Spain has so much to offer, even if you haven’t come across some of the rarities yet. These seven rarities will show you a more authentic view of Spain, with their local culture, their pure landscapes and – more importantly – the fact that they are still considered “new,” when it comes to tourism.

So, if you want to avoid a lot of the tourism that can make going to places too busy to visit, then check out these seven places that we’ve discussed in this article.

While these places aren’t as popular as the busier tourist hotspots , they still hold a special place in Spain when it comes to their history and their attractions.

So, what are you waiting for? Adventure awaits!

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I'm a travelholic and started visiting Spain around 10 years ago. Have travelled the length and breadth of this beautifully contrasting country. “Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination.”

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• Top 12 Places To Visit In Valencia - October 24, 2022
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Non-Touristy Things to Do in Barcelona: Insider Tips for Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Barcelona, a city known for its breathtaking architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, offers a treasure trove of experiences beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. If you’re seeking an insider’s perspective and yearning for off-the-beaten-path adventures, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to our guide on non-touristy things to do in Barcelona.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with insider tips and unique recommendations to help you uncover the non-touristy wonders of Barcelona. Get ready to explore the city’s neighborhoods, immerse yourself in the Catalan culture, venture into hidden corners, and embrace the true essence of Barcelona.

Non-Touristy Things to Do in Barcelona

1. exploring barcelona’s neighborhoods.

Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods offer unique charm and character, inviting you to explore like a local and uncover hidden treasures. 

Gracia allures with its bohemian atmosphere, narrow streets, and lively squares. Discover independent shops, cafes, and captivating street art. Don’t miss Plaça del Sol and the beautiful Clock Tower in Plaça de la Vila de Gracia.

Embrace the transformed allure of El Raval, once edgy, now trendy, and vibrant. Immerse yourself in street art, independent shops, and exceptional bars and restaurants—experience cutting-edge art and culture at MACBA and CCCB.

For a relaxed vibe, Poblenou beckons. This former industrial area now exudes hipness, boasting independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Stroll along Rambla del Poblenou, a tree-lined avenue hosting exquisite tapas bars.

Savor the local atmosphere in any neighborhood, uncovering Barcelona’s non-touristy gems. Wander off the beaten path to unearth something new and remarkable.

2. Immersing in Catalan Culture

To truly experience Barcelona like a local, immerse yourself in the vibrant Catalan culture. Here are a few non-touristy ways to do just that:

• Attend a Castell’s Event: Castells are human towers built during Catalonia’s festivals and other cultural events. These towers can reach up to ten levels high, requiring incredible strength, agility, and teamwork to build. Attending a Castell event will give you a unique insight into Catalan culture and traditions.
• Visit a Local Market: Barcelona has many local markets where fresh produce, meats, and seafood are found. Visiting a market is a great way to experience the local culture and interact with friendly vendors. Some of the most popular markets in Barcelona include La Boqueria , Mercat de Sant Antoni, and Mercat de la Concepció.

• Try Catalan Cuisine: Catalan cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Some of the most popular dishes include pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), escalivada (grilled vegetables), and botifarra (Catalan sausage). Trying these dishes at a local restaurant or market will give you a taste of authentic Catalan cuisine.

• Learn the Sardana Dance: The Sardana is a traditional Catalan dance performed in a circle. It is often accompanied by live music and is a great way to experience the local culture. You can learn the Sardana at many Barcelona cultural centers and dance schools.
• Attend a Traditional Catalan Festival: Barcelona has numerous traditional Catalan festivals annually. Join Festes de Gràcia’s festivities, where neighborhood streets come alive with elaborately decorated squares and vibrant parades. Experience the rich celebrations of La Mercè, Barcelona’s largest street festival, featuring concerts, street performers, and traditional dances.
• Participate in a Correfoc: Experience the exhilarating Correfoc, a traditional Catalan street fire run. Join the procession as performers dressed as demons and mythological creatures dance to the beat of drums, setting off fireworks and sparklers. It’s a thrilling and immersive cultural spectacle showcasing Catalan passion and folklore.
• Witness the Castellers: Experience the awe-inspiring tradition of Castellers, where teams create human towers that reach dizzying heights. These displays of strength, balance, and teamwork are a testament to Catalan identity and unity. Attend a Castellers performance to witness this unique cultural spectacle.

By immersing yourself in the Catalan culture, you can experience Barcelona like a local and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich traditions and history.

3. Nature Retreats in and around Barcelona

If you’re craving a break from the bustling streets of Barcelona and yearning to reconnect with nature, you’re in luck! Several incredible nature retreats in and around the city offer the perfect getaway. Here are some top picks for experiencing the beauty of the outdoors while enjoying some non-touristy things to do in Barcelona:

• Montseny : Just an hour from Barcelona, Montseny is a hidden gem. This natural park is one of Catalonia’s oldest and most well-preserved treasures. You can easily reach it by train or car. Once there, immerse yourself in the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Embark on one of the scenic hiking trails for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

• Collserola Natural Park : Located on the outskirts of Barcelona, Collserola Natural Park is a fantastic escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a sanctuary teeming with wildlife, including wild boar, foxes, and birds of prey. Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails that provide sweeping panoramas of the cityscape. It’s the ideal spot for some fresh air and tranquility.
• La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park : About a two-hour drive from Barcelona, La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park is an awe-inspiring destination. This unique park boasts over 40 volcanic cones and mesmerizing lava flows. Follow the well-marked hiking trails and marvel at the park’s extraordinary geological wonders.
• Catalonia Ecolodge : Nestled in the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, Catalonia Ecolodge is a sustainable haven for nature enthusiasts. Here, you can engage in various activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The lodge uses renewable energy and delights guests with organic, locally sourced cuisine.
• Mas Salagros EcoResort : Situated just outside Barcelona, Mas Salagros EcoResort is another sustainable retreat that will captivate your senses. Engage in yoga sessions, embark on invigorating hikes, or even saddle up for a horseback ride. Powered by renewable energy, this resort even features an organic farm that supplies the restaurant with fresh, delectable produce.

Whichever nature retreat you choose, you’re guaranteed a serene and revitalizing escape from the city. It’s the perfect opportunity to engage in non-touristy things to do in Barcelona and reconnect with the tranquility of nature.

4. Offbeat Museums and Galleries

Looking for non-touristy things to do in Barcelona? Discover offbeat museums and galleries that offer a break from the usual attractions.

Step into the Museum of Funeral Carriages, a unique showcase of Barcelona’s 18th-century funeral carriage history. Explore horse-drawn carriages and early 20th-century motorized hearses, accompanied by a fascinating collection of funeral artifacts.

Explore the Erotic Museum of Barcelona, dedicated to the captivating history of eroticism and sexuality. Uncover exhibits featuring erotic art, vintage pornography, and a curious collection of antique sex toys. It’s a visit that piques the curiosity of the open-minded.

Art enthusiasts, take advantage of the Joan Prats Art Gallery . Immerse yourself in contemporary works by established and emerging artists. From painting to sculpture and photography, the gallery offers diverse mediums. Stay updated on their exhibitions and events by checking their schedule beforehand.

5. Day Trips to Hidden Gems

Looking for non-touristy things to do in Barcelona? How about escaping the bustling crowds and embarking on a day trip to some hidden gems? Check out these unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are sure to leave a lasting impression:

• Montserrat : Just an hour from Barcelona, lies Montserrat, a stunning mountain range housing a Benedictine monastery and a stunning basilica. Inhabited by monks since the 11th century, this place offers breathtaking views from its mountain peaks and many hiking trails. For an even more awe-inspiring experience, hop on a cable car to reach the mountain’s highest point.

• Tarragona : Just an hour away from Barcelona, is calling you with its irresistible coastal charm. Get ready to dive headfirst into its captivating history while you wander through Roman ruins like the theater and circus. When it’s time to unwind, picture yourself lounging at the breathtaking beach or getting blissfully lost amidst the enchanting narrow streets and vibrant buildings of the charming old town. Trust me, history buffs won’t be able to resist the delightful playground that Tarragona has in store.
• Girona : Just about an hour north of Barcelona, you’ll stumble upon the medieval gem known as Girona. Get ready to be transported back in time as you soak up the epicness of the well-preserved old town, surrounded by ancient walls and majestic towers. Prepare to have your mind blown by the jaw-dropping cathedral and take a leisurely stroll through the 12th-century Jewish quarter. Oh, and if you’re a Game of Thrones fanatic, keep your eyes peeled because you might recognize some iconic filming spots. Girona has got it all – history, charm, and a touch of fantasy. 

• Sitges : Just a quick 30-minute drive south of Barcelona, is a delightful coastal town with a vibrant character. Its stunning beaches, charming, colorful houses, and narrow streets create a picturesque backdrop for your vacation. Sitges also boasts a range of museums and art galleries, making it an ideal spot for art enthusiasts. And when the sun goes down, the town truly comes alive with its buzzing nightlife. So, if you’re yearning to relax by the sea while indulging in non-touristy things to do in Barcelona, Sitges is a must-visit destination.
• Cadaqués : Explore the picturesque coastal town of Cadaqués, located about two hours north of Barcelona. Known for its charming white-washed houses and narrow streets, Cadaqués has attracted artists and writers over the years due to its stunning beauty. Discover the famous Salvador Dalí House-Museum and indulge in delicious seafood in this idyllic Mediterranean setting.
• Vic : Venture to Vic, situated about an hour northwest of Barcelona. Famous for its medieval charm, Vic boasts a well-preserved old town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a bustling market square. Explore the impressive Romanesque-style Vic Cathedral and savor local delicacies at the traditional food market.
• Pals : Step into the medieval past by visiting the town of Pals, located approximately two hours northeast of Barcelona. With its ancient walls, medieval towers, and narrow stone streets, Pals is a charming destination for history enthusiasts. Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Torre de les Hores and soak in the medieval atmosphere of this well-preserved Catalan gem.

• Besalú : Immerse yourself in history by visiting Besalú, a medieval town around two hours northeast of Barcelona. Cross the famous 12th-century Romanesque bridge, explore the well-preserved Jewish quarter, and marvel at the grandeur of the 11th-century Church of Sant Pere. Besalú offers a captivating journey back in time.

• Rupit : Experience the allure of Rupit, a charming village nestled in the mountains about two hours north of Barcelona. Wander through its cobblestone streets, visit the picturesque Rupit Castle, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take advantage of the stunning Rupit Waterfall, a natural wonder that adds to the village’s enchanting ambiance.

Overall, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore outside Barcelona. Whether interested in history, nature, or just relaxing by the beach, there’s something for everyone. So why not take a break from the crowds and discover some off-the-beaten-path destinations?

In conclusion, Barcelona has a lot to offer beyond the typical tourist attractions. From stunning panoramic views to hidden neighborhoods and tranquil gardens, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path adventures to be had. By exploring these lesser-known spots, you can get a unique and authentic experience of this vibrant city.

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Raising a glass to Portugal’s best wine regions

All too often it seems like we like to travel the same well-beaten paths, visiting the same places time and time again. So, break the trend and visit these seven alternative Spanish vacation destinations that are every bit as beautiful and brilliant as the old favorites – if not more so!

Valencia – not Barcelona

Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences complex.

Barcelona might have its fair share of Gaudi fare, but it’s in the balmy city of Valencia further down the eastern coast where Spanish architecture is alive and kicking.

It’s mostly all thanks to Santiago Calatrava, a local sculptor and engineer who has designed many of the city’s structural wonders. The integrity of his structures has been questioned of late, but you can’t fault him on his sense of style!

Buñol’s annual La Tomatina party!

Beyond the buildings and a pretty cool nightclub scene around the El Carmen district, Valencia is a top spot for foodies. Head here to chow-down on Valencia’s home dish, the humble paella, or drive thirty-minutes north to the provincial village of Buñol and the annual La Tomatina festival. It’s held every August and involves a whole lot of messy partying with the locally revered red fruit!

Search for cheap flights to Valencia.

Formentera – not Ibiza

The astounding Formentera Lighthouse. © Juan Carlos Flórez

If you’d prefer to swap your club-bangers for beach hammocks, this Balearic Island – measuring just 12.5 miles from the east to the west – is a perfect subtropical getaway.

Unlike its big brothers Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza, Formentera is relatively unscathed by the masses of randy party-hard tourists, and instead offers a pleasingly rugged scenery, with the salt beds, rosemary fields and pine woodlands perfectly matched to the relaxed, bare-all character of the local Catalans.

And we’re not kidding. The 10,700 or so regular residents put the coastline to good use, with almost every lounging strip catering for nude bathing.

So yes, it’s a pretty free-spirited, boho spot (no wonder Bob Dylan used to live here). If you’re searching for sheer escapism, head for Formentera.

Search for cheap flights to Formentera.

Seville – not Santiago de Compostela

A man, a lamppost, a Sunny Seville park. © Walter Watzpatzkowski

There’s something so hopelessly romantic about Seville. The winding cobbled streets of the old town, the evergreen nature, the scurry of the tapas bars, the zesty oranges growing by the roadside… the flamenco! It’s the undisputed gem in the Andalusian crown, and a place where you can lean back and relax, even in the sweltering hot summers.

In many ways, Seville represents the rich tapestry that is modern Spain. Offering lucky visitors the chance to walk through the city’s 2,200 years of history and encounter stunning art and architecture of Islamic, Roman, Islamic, Gothic, baroque and Renaissance varieties.

Santiago de Compostela is the sight of a great ancient pilgrimage, but it’s Seville – arguable the greatest city of the Spanish south – that continues to deliver the classic goods, time after time.

Search for cheap flights to Seville.

Vigo – not San Sebastián

Vigo’s iluminated harbour. © Contando Estrelas

Even though it boasts the largest fishing fleet in Europe, surprisingly few travelers set their sails on Vigo. And what a shame! It’s the largest city in the autonomous community of Galicia and offers an atmosphere and community spirit that is totally unmatched in the rest of the country, not least in the Basque Country’s equally fishy port city, San Sebastián .

A part of the quintessential Vigo vibe is its rich history as an industrial port. Where glimpses of commerce can be a tad drab in most places, here it’s utterly charming, with the thousands of fishermen milling around the freshly stocked quays, and the noisy bartering extending inwards to the old city O Berbés, replete with eateries and tavernas.

If you want to venture outside of the city bustle, Vigo’s real gem lies just 9 miles from the shoreline. The Cíes Islands archipelago is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, a nature reserve offering spectacular treks, great beaches and the opportunity to do some exotic bird-watching. There are just three tiny islands to get around, so make a boat-cruising day of it, or bring your tent along and pitch overnight.

Search for cheap flights to Vigo.

Baqueira-Beret – not Sierra Nevada

Baqueira-Beret. © Institut für Tourismus in Spanien (TURESPAÑA)

While most international thrill-seekers head for the hills of Granada ’s Sierra Nevada, it’s here in the Pyrenees in the most northern part of Spain where the ski slopes are fit for kings. Literally.

King Felipe VI and his family have a chalet alongside the Baqueira-Beret resort, and can often be found zipping through black runs over the luscious Aran Valley during ski season. When the surroundings are this incredible who can blame him?

Search for cheap flights to Baqueira-Beret.

Cádiz – not The Canary Islands

A song and dance at the Cádiz Carnival. © Patronato de Turismo Provincia de Cádiz

Chronicling back four millennia, there’s so much known about Spain’s oldest city, Cádiz , and yet it’s still tough to sum up its essence.

Perhaps it’s because this south-western site is always moving forward, even when its time-worn limestone houses and fortifications crumble under the influence of the salty sea air. Even during the politically suffocating Franco years, the city has always maintained its staunch liberalism, which is represented every spring during the Carnival of Cádiz. Welcome to people of all shapes and sizes, it’s one of Spain’s best and most cherished fiestas.

An oddball alternative to the likes of Tenerife and Lanzarote, but with Cádiz you get all the surf, sun and slap-up seafood at a fraction of the price, plus a little bit more heritage thrown-in on the side.

Search for cheap flights to Cádiz .

Toledo – not Madrid

The looming Alcázar of Toledo fortification. © Niko Kaptur

Another destination means another Spanish region, and a stop-off at Toledo in the wonderfully timeless Castile–La Mancha autonomous community.

Just an hour’s drive from central Madrid, many a wandering traveler makes the mistake of planning just one jam-packed day trip to Toledo. To dig a little deeper beneath the surface of this enigmatic metropolis, you’ll have to stay overnight, whereby Toledo’s old religious buildings – of Christian, Muslim and Jewish persuasions – start glowing under the floodlights, and the locals start to mill around the narrow streets.

There’s a smooth, jazzy feel to the city, the kind of place where Woody Allen could shoot a movie. Unlike some of the other places he’s put to film (ahem, Barcelona), Toledo would actually live up to the hype!

Oh, and did we mention that the whole city is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Something that Madrid could only ever dream of!

Search for cheap flights to Toledo.

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Non Touristy Things to Do in Spain

When most of us travel, we want to visit the ‘must-sees’ but we also want to hang out with locals doing non touristy things. It’s hard to strike a balance, so when we plan custom trips for Totally Spain  clients (and we’ve been doing this since the year 2000), in addition to highlighting top attractions, we recommend many non touristy things to do in Spain so clients can get a sense of the Spain that we know and love.

25 Non Touristy Things to Do in Spain

1 Go to authentic food markets

If you are in Barcelona, by all means go to the Boqueria Market which is quite a sight – but try to visit a smaller neighbourhood food market also. It’s astonishing what you will learn about the Spanish by seeing the care and attention given to selecting fruit, vegetables, fish and seafood by the average market shopper. See our post on the best food markets in Spain  for some of the country’s best spots to observe this.

Don’t just visit the Boqueria in Barcelona. Make sure to see other markets such as Malaga’s Atarazanas to get a sense of what the average person buys and eats! photo credit: Juergen Heitmann Dedication via photopin (license)

2 Visit the smaller museums

Of course, you should go to the Prado and the Reina Sofia in Madrid, but make time for smaller niche spaces such as the Sorolla house museum too. You’ll find a few other travellers there – but definitely not the long lines of tourists on the ‘box-ticking’ trip of Spain. Read about our favourite niche museums in Madrid .

3 Relax in the plazas

One of the classic non touristy things to do in Spain. This is something every Spanish person makes time for especially at the weekends and it’s why you’ll find so many benches in the public squares. It doesn’t have to be the main square often called the Plaza Mayor – just look out for anywhere with a few children playing or a few adults having a chat and that’s where you’ll get to see how the Spanish wind-down in the evening, often munching on sunflower and pumpkin seeds.  Check out our guide to Spain’s best plazas for a sensational backdrop.

4 Visit Spain’s secondary cities

We think of them as boutique destinations  – the historic and picturesque smaller cities where you find the Spanish taking weekend breaks but not so many foreigners know about them. These are places we love encouraging our clients to consider when they are on a repeat trip to Spain. If you’ve already seen the big sights in Barcelona, spend some time in beautiful Girona instead. Following in the same vein, think magnificent Segovia instead of Madrid and splendid Cordoba instead of Seville. You get the idea.

If you’ve already been to Madrid and Barcelona, give much more time to Spain’s secondary cities such as Girona, Cordoba and pictured here, Segovia. photo credit: Joanbrebo Segovia 001, acueducto. via photopin (license)

5 Dig a little into Spain’s history

The big cities are great for their museums but by digging a little deeper, you will definitely be leaving the long lines and hordes of tourists behind. Where should you go? If the discovery of the Americas is something you’d like to know more about, or you enjoy learning about the Romans, then  Extremadura is the place to go.  Amazing scenery, food and wine there too.  Travelling with children? Try touring  Spain’s alcazars and castles and the amazing walled towns and cities . Another hugely under explored part of Spanish history that is well worth visiting is its Jewish heritage. We’ve produced some fantastic itineraries and worked with amazing guides for Spain’s most significant Jewish sights and Portugal’s too .

6 Take inspiration from art, film or music

Planning a trip around a Spanish musician, architect or painter is another great way to experience non touristy things to do in Spain. Have a look at our guide to Dali’s Catalonia  and Gaudi’s Barcelona  and consider opting for the less well known locations such as Colonia Guell or Pubol Castle . In Madrid, we recommend seeing Las Meninas in the Prado and Guernica in the Reina Sofia but if you want to step away from the other visitors, you should think about joining a tour of street art in Madrid or going along to the contemporary workspaces such as La Tabacalera and El Matadero . Not only will you be far away from the tourist trail but they bring you in contact with this generation’s Dali’s and Picasso’s. In Andalusia, we would suggest visiting a flamenco show perhaps in Jerez but you should also explore locations connected with Camaron de la Isla or Paco de Lucia. Movie buffs have a lot of locations to choose from as you’ll see in the many movies and TV series filmed in Spain .

7 Mimic the local timetable

The best way to eat authentic Spanish food  – and avoid the tourist traps – is to eat when and where the Spanish eat. Check out our guide to Spanish mealtimes  which covers the five (yes, five) meals a day here. And next time you are in Spain and see a group of Spanish people having a large vermouth before lunch – don’t question it – order one! And if you see them having churros at 10am or 5pm – don’t wonder why – order some! It’s a sure-fire way of being un-touristy and synchronising with the local timetable.

Have churros whenever and wherever you see the Spanish having them – that’s when they are fresh and at their most delicious! photo credit: subherwal Churros in Malide, El Camino de Santiago, March 2017 via photopin (license)

8 Read the local paper

It might seem stupid to spend a few euro on something you can’t read (or might not follow very well) but almost every bar and cafe has a copy of the local paper to read while you are there – free of charge. So, when you are having a coffee, pick it up and have a flick through – you never know what might be around the corner from you. Some local fiestas, a huge Easter procession, a Michelin-star restaurant, an outdoor concert or event…

9 Visit the city parks & gardens

Because so many Spanish families live in city apartments, you’ll find a great atmosphere in the city’s parks and gardens. Take Retiro Park in Madrid – for sure you’ll find lots of tourists – but they tend to stick to the area by the Puerta de Alcala entrance. Go inside a bit more and you’ll find so many areas such as the Rose Garden that are just enjoyed by the locals. We’ve put together a guide to Spain’s best gardens and parks  to inspire you to explore the many courtyards and palace grounds as well as city parks in Spain.

10 In the evening – stand at the bar – don’t sit at a table

Of course, this isn’t always practical for everybody, but if you want to have an authentic evening tasting tapas in Spain – the last thing you should do is to sit down in one bar for the evening. You need to find the best street for tapas or pintxos and pop in and out of a few places – trying one thing in each. It can be a bit challenging as you have to keep ordering in new places rather than saying ‘same again’ but we guarantee that you will have a great evening and again, learn a lot about how the Spanish enjoy life. Have a look at our guide to the art of sharing food for tips on ordering in bars and restaurants.

Tapas in Spain are small bite-sized nibbles to have with a drink. Don’t sit down – you need to just try one in each place and keep on the move! photo credit: Merlijn Hoek Casa Vergara // Trip to Spain – San Sebastian via photopin (license)

11 Do something you usually do

So often we find ourselves doing things on holiday that we never do at home. It’s good to try new things but we always recommend to do a bit of new and a bit of what you know. If you like painting, bring along a sketch pad and draw something in the plaza. Not only will you get chatting to others from abroad but you’ll find lots of curious locals having a look as well. If you or your family enjoy surfing, hire a surf board or take a lesson with a local surf club. If you enjoy hiking, don’t spend all your holiday inside museums – make sure you plan some time out on the Camino de Santiago or walking in the hills or mountains with your own travel party or we can line up a guide. If you like architecture, get giddy with some of Spain’s coolest buildings . Have a farm or a vegetable patch you are proud of? Try out some agricultural touring . If engineering is more your thing – check out Spain’s best bridges . If horse-riding is what you live for – book a session in a local riding school. Engaging with people and places that resonate with you is often what defines a holiday –  so make sure you leave lots of time for the stuff you like.

12 Take a food tour

How could this be included in Non Touristy Things to Do in Spain, you ask? Aren’t these tours designed just for tourists? Of course, we know that food tours and cooking classes in English are 100% targeted at visitors to Spain but by taking one of these early on in your visit – you’ll get some much more out of your trip! You’ll know what the local dishes are and you’ll be given tips on where to eat out. This means that you won’t fall for the typical tourist traps brandishing pictures of paella  and calamari. And even when that’s exactly what you want to eat – you’ll know where and how to find the more genuine places that are catering to locals.

13 Embrace where you are (in culinary terms)

Although we do believe that cafes, bars and restaurants should do their best to provide whatever a customer wants, it does pay to be aware of where you are. Unless you see a sign for sangria inside a bar or restaurant, don’t expect to be able to order it. Whenever you are ordering any drink, we would recommend you ask for something local or from the region. And it’s exactly the same with food – ask what dishes are typical to the area. Nine times out of 10 you’ll bring a smile to the face of whoever is serving you – and they’ll pass on that goodwill to you throughout your meal. Plus, you’ll get a great drink or bite to eat at a keen price too.

Know where you are. Don’t rush into ordering sangria or a Rioja in Barcelona – ask about regional wines or opt for a glass of the local bubbly called cava. photo credit: acme IXX_4111 via photopin (license)

14 Our Ultimate Pro-Tip: hire a private guide

If you really want to do what the locals do, we recommend pre-booking a local private guide for a morning or afternoon city tour. Not only will you enjoy the session itself, but the information and personal advice they can give will really make a huge difference to the rest of your holiday and keep you away from the tourist traps that are costly both in terms of money and time.

15 Visit a cemetery

Nobody goes to Paris without seeing the Père Lachaise cemetery and yet it’s hardly ever mentioned as a worthwhile use of your time in Spain. Throughout the country, there are lots of unique and interesting cemeteries in Spain that are real treasure troves for history buffs. We are big fans of Comillas graveyard in Cantabria and in Barcelona’s Montjuic, you can visit the Cemetery and its Collection of Hearses illustrating how funeral corteges looked in the past. See lots more tips on cemeteries and other spooky activities here .

16 Take a nap

If you are visiting Spain in the summer – you really should stay out of the heat in the middle of the day. Although less and less Spanish people take naps themselves, the timetable here is still very structured around a section of downtime in the early afternoon. Why fight it? What could be better than having a long leisurely lunch and popping back to the hotel for a snooze or to relax and read up on where you have visited and where you are going. Not only will you be in sync with the locals, you’ll also be rested and ready or a busy afternoon – having put the feet up. It’s a win-win situation.

We’re not suggesting you sleep in the street but you should head back to your hotel for some shut-eye or downtime in the mid-afternoon. photo credit: fernando garcía redondo Siestas al sol via photopin (license)

17 Don’t go into empty bars & restaurants

In Spain, it’s often tricky to make a recommendation for a great bar or café as there are busy times and quiet times during the day when a place might be closed or seem a bit lacking in atmosphere. If you have a recommendation for a good bar or restaurant and it is empty, don’t bother going in – no matter who said it was excellent. It’s the wrong time of the day to go and if you are hungry, you’ll be disappointed with whatever is served up to you. Check our guide on mealtimes  to know what you should be eating and drinking at what time in Spain.

18 Download travel apps before you fly

If you are definitely planning to visit the major monuments and museums such as Park Guell , it is worth checking their website and downloading their app before you go. Not only does it save you from standing in a line at the information desk, you can also find tips on how to visit the museums and often deals and discounts for the shop and cafe. We’ve highlighted some useful travel apps  including a restaurant app, a currency converter, a map app and weather app that you really should download before you leave home.

19 Pre-book tickets

Nothing screams tourist as much as queueing in the midday heat outside one of the key attractions . Don’t do it to yourself. 65 million visitors came to Spain last year and lots of them want to see the same things you want to. Avoid the waiting and pre-book tickets online .

20 Eat tortilla with your mid-morning coffee

It’s one of the simplest pleasures and yet so many people never try tortilla when it’s at is best. The Spanish obviously adore it and you’ll find it on offer with a coffee in most places before midday. Not only will it bring you instant happiness but it’ll keep you going until 2.30pm or 3 o’clock which is when you should have having your midday meal. Take our word for it – eat the tortilla early – not when it is dried out and lonesome at the end of the day.

Timing is everything when it comes to tortilla and your best bet is to eat it early! photo credit: minusbaby via photopin (license)

21 Don’t tip (too much)

Well – maybe that’s a bit harsh – but tip less than you are perhaps accustomed to. Somewhere between small change and five and 10 percent is plenty. Check out our definitive guide on what to tip in Spain  for info on tipping etiquette here.

22 Order a menu-del-dia

Once you’ve started you’ll never stop. Where else would you get a three-course meal with wine for ridiculous prices? And you don’t have to read a long menu. It’s one of the handiest non touristy things to do in Spain. Read our guide to  Spain’s set-price meals  and spread the word.

It’s still possible to dine on three courses plus wine for under 10 euro in Spain! You just need to look out for the deals on these chalk boards outside restaurants and trust the waiting staff if you don’t know what the dishes actually are. Pic credit: Pamela Cahill

23 Greet people in the elevator

Here in Spain, it’s very common to hear greetings in the lift. You’ll often hear a ‘buenos dias’ or ‘buenas tardes’ as you enter a lift and the obligatory ‘hasta luego’ as you leave. It’s a nice custom to adopt while you are here and again – it will bring a few smiles whenever you share a lift in the hotel, museum or airport.

24 Take a stroll

The ‘paseo’ is a much-loved activity in Spain and you couldn’t find anything less touristy to do. It consists of a slow walk usually in the well-heeled parts of every village, town or city. It may include an ice-cream or some nibbling on sunflower seeds en-route and probably comes to an end at an outdoor terrace where you can order a thirst quenching beer, coffee or even one of Spain’s many  alcohol-free drinks . You’ll find it hard to pace yourself for the stroll (it’s slow) at the beginning so find a local family doing the same thing and take the lead from them.

Wherever you are in Spain, you’ll find an afternoon stroll or ‘paseo’ taking place. Why fight it – go ahead and join in! photo credit: Joanbrebo Vacances_5016 via photopin (license)

25 Book your trip through Totally Spain

It’s a shameless plug here but if you really want a unique trip to Spain or Portugal, packed full of memories, with lots of interaction with locals and little or no standing around in queues – we are ready and waiting to plan your unique trip  – that is packed full of non touristy things to do in Spain!

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• Places To Stay
• All Articles
• Hidden Spain: The 10 best places to escape the crowds
• Travel tips

By Lucy Richardson, Editor

Nothing beats a holiday in Spain, but nobody wants to get stuck with the crowds. Here are 10 secret treasures of the real, hidden Spain.

1  Secret coves in Catalonia

Stay here:   Consistently voted one of our top-rated places to stay, Hostal Sa Rascassa is a secluded restaurant with five rooms, set in a pretty coastal location under pine trees. In-the-know foodies come from afar to dine here, and there’s a path down to a secret little cove where the waters are crystal-clear.

What you get: ●   Breathtaking sea views from the rooms’ shared terrace ●   Some of the best food in Catalonia – much of it straight from the sea ●    Leafy restaurant terrace lit by fairy lights ●  Super friendly owner and staff ●  Great snorkelling/diving in the bay

Prices from £103 per night for a room

2  Peace and privacy in Fuerteventura

Stay here: Step into the architectural marvel of La Oliva Hideaway , tucked away in Fuerteventura’s interior. These two self-catering units are minimalist and avant-garde, both sharing a very glossy-looking pool terrace. Embrace the slow movement, disconnect from the world, and immerse yourself in the wild beaches and lunar beauty of the island.

What you get: ●  A secluded pool terrace with magazine-worthy good looks ●  Striking design details ●  A concierge service that delivers breakfast and can arrange activities ●  Close to some of the best beaches in the Canaries ●  Sophisticated, grown-up vibes – adults only

Prices from £256 per night for a self-catering unit

3 A  desert oasis in Almeria

Stay here:  This is where the Almería desert meets the Mediterranean sea. It’s a place of ochre and terracotta landscapes, tinkling goat bells, swaying palm trees, fiery sunsets and stylish  Little Agave , an eco-retreat in the heart of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. There’s no better place to finish up your novel.

What you get: ●   Brilliant value ●  Just 4 simple-yet-chic rooms ●   A stunning desert garden with pool ●   Close to Spain’s best beaches ●  Far from the tourist crowds

Prices from £68 per night for a room

4   The wild orchards of Mallorca

Stay here:   Mallorca has dozens of  agroturismo  properties but Son Palou stands out from the crowd. It’s a small, stylish 14-bedroom hotel (plus a private villa for 2-4) set among lush wild orchards, with stunning mountain scenery. A perfect place to recharge your batteries and spoil yourself in nature.

What you get: ●  Exceptional food ●  Lovely tranquil atmosphere ●    Fabulous mountain views ●   Lots of pretty nooks for hiding away ●  The estate has its own waterfall!

Prices from £148 per night for a double room

5  Hide & chic on the Costa Blanca

Stay here:   Caserio del Mirador is a brilliant family-focused retreat in the mountains above the Costa Blanca. There are five stylish apartments, a casita, and an Airstream for glampers. It’s also home to a menagerie of animals (there’s a pony called Snow White – bless). The facilities are everything a parent could wish for.

What you get: ●   Perfect for families ●  Safe and secure ●    Flawless apartments ●   Wine & beer included in food prices ●  Within distance of the sea

Prices from £171 per night for an apartment

6 Views of Africa  on the Costa de la Luz

Stay here:   El Cancho is a pair of secluded eco-houses (sleeping 2-6) on a hillside above the stunning white beaches around Tarifa. Get set for a real back-to-nature experience: solar panels provide electricity, and gas heats water directly from the mountain spring. Lie in a hammock, gaze across the Strait towards Morocco, and drift off to the sound of goat bells.

What you get: ●   Two eco-houses set in a protected natural park ●  Total solitude and privacy ●    Sensational coastal views towards Morocco ●   White-sand beaches with excellent kite- and windsurfing ●  Lots of wildlife to spot

Prices from £120 per night for an eco-house

7   Bask & relax in the Basque Country

Stay here: Set in a traditional Basque farmhouse, the Hemingway Riverview Apartments – named after the famous writer who loved this part of Spain – line the scenic Urdaibai estuary (a Unesco biosphere reserve). You get migrating birds and fab beaches here, while the mountainous interior is marked by dozens of hiking and biking trails.

What you get:

●   Six smart, high-spec apartments (for 2-4) ●  Incredible estuary views ●    Located on a popular bird migration route ●  A quiet beach a 5-minute walk away ●  Lots of outdoorsy activities (surfing, kitesurfing, cycling, birdwatching)

Prices from £103 per night for an apartment

8 The green coast of Asturias

Stay here:   This is where history meets contemporary comfort. We love Hotel Torre de Villademoros , an 18th-century mansion with a medieval tower (with bedrooms!) on Asturias’ rugged northwest coastline. These beaches are often called the cleanest in northern Spain. It’s also a walker’s paradise.

What you get: ●   A truly historic hideaway ●  Great value for money ●    A super-lovely owner ●   The cleanest beaches in northern Spain ●  Not a soul between here and the coast

Prices from £85 per night for a standard room

9   The magnificent vistas of Aragon

Stay here: Gaze over far-reaching countryside views, and gorge on gourmet food and wine at Torre del Marques Hotel & Spa , a serene, 18th-century farmhouse in the little-known Matarraña region, considered the Tuscany of Spain. Explore the vineyards, relax in the gardens of almond trees, then hike to Gothic castles or crystal-clear natural pools.

What you get: ●   To-die-for views of treetops, hills and valleys ●  Excellent food alongside wine from the hotel’s vineyards ●    18 elegant rooms that survey the landscape ●   Dreamy outdoor pool, surrounded by rolling countryside ●  A fabulous spa with Turkish bath

Prices from £138 per night for a standard room

10 Enchanting gardens of inland Menorca

Stay here:   Once a derelict 19th-century manor house, now a gorgeous villa for family and friends, The Menorca Hideaway hides away in 2.5 acres of beautifully terraced grounds. The magical gardens are filled with wildflowers, fruit trees and friendly tortoises, and the peaceful, medieval town of Alaior is close by.

What you get: ●  4 bright bedrooms with windows over lavender fields ●  Lovely pool fashioned from an old water tank ●    Great kitchen for self-catering plus BBQs ●  Close to Alaior and the sandy beaches of Son Bou ●  2.5 acres of private gardens

Prices from £366 per night for the villa

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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Top 31 best non-tourist places to visit in Europe

Why not travel somewhere different on your next holiday with our top 31 best non-tourist places to visit in Europe. It seems most people travelling Europe go to the tourist hot spots such as Rome, London, Venice, Santorini and many other popular cities. However I hope this list will inspire you to try something new and go off the beaten path and see some the less travelled destinations around Europe.

Let’s get started…

• Rick Steves Best of Europe
• Lonely Planet Europe Travel Guide
• Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door
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#1. Siena, Italy

Take a step back to medieval Tuscany, Siena is probably one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval cities. Making it a ‘must do’ trip even if you are in Tuscany for just a couple of days. A visit to the inside of the beautiful Gothic Duomo in Siena is highly recommended.

Check out this Tuscany Travel Book for the everything you need to know!

• Best hotels
• Check for flights
• Best things to do

#2. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Its countryside is home to medieval villages, rivers and lakes, plus the craggy Dinaric Alps. Some of the highlights are visiting the stunning Mostar bridge, take a trip to Sarajevo and swimming at Kravice Falls.

Check out the Bosnia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#3. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its distinctive fairy chimneys, tall, cone-shaped rock formations clustered. Cappadocia is a landscape that you will have never witnessed before in your lifetime. Thanks to its beautiful landscapes and great weather conditions Cappadocia is famous for its hot air balloon festival and the views are simply breathtaking. Cappadocia is a destination not to be missed.

Check out the Cappadocia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#4. I nnsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is one of Europe’s most idyllic cities nestled in the heart of the Alps. It is also known for its Imperial and modern architecture. Getting around is made cheap and easy with use of the tram.

Check out the Innsbruck Travel Book for the best things to do.

#5. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, is a perfect example of this blend of German, Mediterranean, and Slovenian culture. The old town is a blend of Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau buildings, watched over by a medieval castle. Cut through the gardens of Tivoli Park to the National Museum of Contemporary History for a history of modern Slovenia.

Check out the Slovenia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#6. Lucca, Italy

Lucca is a city on the Serchio river in Italy’s Tuscany region. Lucca is the perfect destination for a day trip from Florence. There’s a lot to do and see also in the surroundings of Lucca. Make sure you check out Versilia and its beaches, the Apuan Alps and the splendid Garfagnana with its small characteristic villages as Barga.

Check out this Tuscany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#7. Bolonga, Italy

Bologna is the lively, historic capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, in northern Italy. While the crowds of tourists flock to Venice, Florence and Rome, Bologna remains relatively quiet in comparison. This mediaeval university town is charming, historic and fun to explore.

Check out this Bologna Travel Book for the best things to do.

#8. Tolmin, Slovenia

Tolmin is a small town in northwestern Slovenia. Tolmin, named the Alpine Town of 2016, is the largest town in the Soča Valley. It is located in the picturesque confluence of the Soča and the Tolminka. Be sure to check out Tolmin Gorges, Triglav National Park and try white water rafting on the Soca River.

#9. Wrocław, Poland

Wrocław is a city on the Oder River in western Poland. It’s known for its Market Square, lined with elegant townhouses and featuring a modern fountain. Also on the square is the Gothic Old Town Hall, with its large astronomical clock.

Check out the Poland Travel Book for the best things to do.

#10. Sarajevo, Bosnia

Nestled among dramatic peaks, a bustling and welcoming city. War took its toll, with the 1992-1996 siege hitting hard. But the lively, diverse, museum-rich city has been almost entirely reconstructed. Don’t miss Bijambare caves, set in thick forests and amid lakes to the north of the city, or Bosna Springs, from which the country takes its name. Site of 1984’s Winter Olympics, Sarajevo offers spectacular skiing on Mount Bjelasnica Jahorina.

#11. Azores, Portugal

The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, are an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic characterised by dramatic landscapes. With whale watching, diving, hiking and host of other adventure sports on offer, the Azores are a great destination for adrenaline junkies.

Check out the Azores Travel Book for the best things to do.

#12. Lublin, Poland

Lublin is the largest city in southeastern Poland, with a thriving cultural and academic scene. It’s also a main transport hub, with excellent road and rail connections to all parts of Poland making it a great destination to visit while in Poland for travellers.

#13. Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, a city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is known for the Roman and Venetian ruins of its peninsular Old Town. Most tourists flock to Dubrovnik leaving Zadar a somewhat untapped gem, it is a great hub for visiting Kikra National Park and Plitvice National Park to see the stunning waterfalls.

Check out the Croatia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#14. Bretagne, France

Brittany is one of the great historic provinces of France. The most Atlantic of France’s regions, Brittany is proud of its Celtic heritage, that sets it apart from the rest of France. From here you can take day tours to Normandy, Saint Malo and Mont St Michel.

Check out the Brittany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#15. Haarlem, Netherlands

Haarlem is a city outside of Amsterdam famous for its ancient buildings, cobbled streets and winding waterways, the medieval city of Haarlem is one of the most photogenic destinations in the Netherlands. It’s the center of a major flower-bulb-growing district, and famous for its tulip fields.

Check out the Netherlands Travel Book for the best things to do.

#16. San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastián is a resort town on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country. The Old Quarter’s narrow, winding streets are full of bars and restaurants, and in the modern city, sidewalk cafes are all around. The city specialises in seafood!

Check out the Spain Travel Book for the best things to do.

#17. Koper, Slovenia

Koper is a charming seaside hub with a picturesque old city core and quaint villages on its outskirts. From Koper you can take day tours to Ljubljana, Postojna Caves and Lake Bled making it a great hub to see more of Slovenia.

#18. Berat, Albania

Berat is a city on the Osum River, in central Albania. It’s known for its white Ottoman houses climbing up the hill to its castle, earning it the title of ‘town of a thousand windows’ and was added to the Unesco World Heritage sites in 2008. However, tourism is on the increase and Berat has managed to retain its easy-going charm and friendly atmosphere making it a recommended destination.

Check out the Albania Travel Book for the best things to do.

#19. Perugia, Italy

Perugia is an Italian city and the capital of the Umbria region. It’s known for its defensive walls around the historic center. if you have a sweet tooth, visit during the Eurochocolate festival, held in October, when the entire town reportedly smells of chocolate.

There are some beautiful picturesque villages in Umbria that you can visit from Perugia such as Montefalco, Spello, Assisi, Todi and Gubbio. So its probably worth hiring a car here if your planning on travelling around.

Check out the Umbria Travel Book for the best things to do.

#20. Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia’s northwestern capital, is distinguished by its 18th- and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture. The unique blend of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, open-air markets, and ancient cathedrals, make Zagreb the perfect city to explore. Zagreb is also another great hub if you are wanting to visit Krka National Park and Plitvice National Park

#21. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is not on many people’s holiday list due to wars of the 1990s and the NATO bombing campaign and prefer to stay away. It may not be the most picturesque European cities, however Belgrade you will find a captivating, lively city, with some surprisingly quaint streets and a certain charm. It is worth going to see Belgrades most significant landmark the Beogradska Tvrđava.

Check out the Serbia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#22. Kotor, Montenegró

The beautiful country of Montenegro only became an independent nation in 2006. The entire old town area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kotor is situated in a secluded tip of Boka Kotorsky Bay offering an idyllic retreat from the modern world which few people get to experience. Take a wonder down winding streets, its medieval old town has several Romanesque churches, palaces, cathedrals and dine on gorgeous Mediterranean food.

Check out the Montenegro Travel Book for the best things to do.

#23. Luxembourg

Often forgotten about by tourists Luxembourg has plenty to offer and is famous for its brewery. While you’re here, you can also visit Vianden Castle which built between the 11th and 14th centuries. In the city centre make sure you take the Wenzel Walk which is a two hour signposted walk, taking in the sights of the historic buildings, churches, towers and cobbled streets.

Check out the Luxembourg Travel Book for the best things to do.

#24. Utrecht, Netherlands

This ancient and historic city houses many buildings going back to the early Middle Ages. Utrecht is small enough to explore walking but don’t worry there is plenty of things to keep you entertained. If you fancy a beer make sure you head down to Oliver a Belgium beer bar which boasts 70 different beers and great food.

#25. Puglia, Italy

Puglia is known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and picture perfect Mediterranean coastline making it a great destination to go on holiday. It hosts stunning countryside and some of the prettiest beaches in Italy. Be sure to visit Alberobello’s Trulli for an unforgettable visit.

Check out the Southern Italy Travel Book for the best things to do.

#26. Galway, Ireland

Most holiday makers travel to Dublin however they are missing a trick not visiting the lesser known Galway. A heaven for people who love good food and music, head down to Quay Street for a wide variety of pubs and restaurants which host a selection of traditional live Irish music.

From Galway you can take day trips to see Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and Dublin. Make sure you check out ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ and Connemara National Park.

Check out the Ireland Travel Book for the best things to do.

#27. Salina, Italy

Salina is one of the Aeolian islands, a cluster of seven volcanic islands in the far south of Italy. Salina boasts a lush landscape from its natural freshwater springs and offers incredible views of the twin volcanos of Salina. A great place for exploring, hiking and swimming in the crystal clear waters. There is lots of quaint little streets to wonder around and gorgeous walks along the water front.

Check out the Italy Travel Book for the best things to do.

#28.  Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is one of the best preserved medieval towns in the whole of Europe. It’s a small city, and the tourist areas are safe and easily explored on foot. You will be surrounded by medieval charm and tradition with every turn. Make sure you visit Toompea Hill for some stunning views of the city, the old town and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Check out the Estonia Travel Book for the best things to do.

#29. G ranada, Spain

Granada is a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s known for grand examples of medieval architecture dating to the Moorish occupation. Do not miss a visit to The Alhambra so be sure to book in advance, the downside is that it does get very busy as its one of the main attractions to see.

Check out the Grenada and Southern Spain Travel Book for the best things to do.

#30.  Dresden, Germany

It’s hard to believe that a city as beautiful as Dresden was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. However Dresden is filled with forests, gardens, parks and is full of history making it a great city break that is not as busy as places such as Berlin and Munich.

There are lots of museums,  cathedrals and beautiful architecture to absorb. Make sure you visit the ‘Panometer’ for a 360 degree impression of Old Dresden or Dresden in 1945 after the bombings.

Check out the Germany Travel Book for the best things to do.

#31. Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, France

Aubeterre-sur-Dronne has been officially listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and it has an amazing underground church hewn out from the rock. In the centre of the village is a lovely picturesque square filled with shops, bars and restaurants.

Just up one of the little roads near the square there is a viewpoint which looks out over Aubeterre, check out our Instagram picture from our visit here . Just outside the village you can swim in the river and there is a nice park perfect for picnics.

Check out the France Travel Book for the best things to do.

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Each destination has its own charm and history to tell. Well written article. Tallinn and Cappadocia interests me.

Wow! What a great list! Happy to see some of the cities we’ve visited make the list but now we have a plenty of new cities and towns to add to our To Travel List! Thanks for the great read ?

Really thanks for sharing this useful post !! Europe is a nice place to visit for holidays and I will definitely visit these places with my friends.

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• 12 Secret Towns In Spain...

Secret and Underrated Towns in Spain To Visit

One of the reasons why Spain is such a fascinating country is its abundance of beautiful towns and villages, many of which are well off the beaten tourist track. Below, Culture Trip picks 12 secret and stunning destinations in Spain to visit before the rest of the world discovers them.

Estepona has somehow managed to avoid the tourism-driven changes that have altered so much of Spain’s south coast. Located half an hour’s drive from Marbella, this beautiful little town is one of the Costa del Sol’s undiscovered treasures: its flower-filled streets are some of the most romantic you’ll see anywhere in Andalusia, and it has a lovely (and rarely crowded) beach, too. The place to be for tapas and drinks is the Plaza de las Flores, and the key attraction is the Botanical Garden.

Priego de Córdoba

Though frequently named as one of the most attractive towns in Spain, Priego de Córdoba is still very much a place for the off-piste traveller. It is famous for being home to some of the most beautiful Baroque churches in the country, which are scattered throughout the winding, pretty streets of Barrio de la Villa, Priego’s oldest quarter. This centuries-old neighbourhood sits precariously on a clifftop from which you can survey the wild expanses of the Subbéticas National Park .

A walled medieval town an hour north of Madrid, Pedraza is one of central Spain’s best-kept secrets, a place which truly gives you the sensation of being transported back in time. Stone houses with flower-filled little balconies and gnarled wooden doors line the town’s narrow streets; sooner or later, they all end up in the ridiculously attractive Plaza Mayor, which becomes a bullring in the summer. Take a little wooden stool on one of the terraces and admire a square unscathed by the past few hundred years.

Villanueva de la Concepción

The charming whitewashed village of Villanueva de la Concepción is only about a 45-minute drive inland from Málaga , but it’s well off the tourist track. It boasts a spectacular location at the base of El Torcal (the weird karst landscape of which was once the ocean floor), surrounded by rolling fields and olive groves. On a clear day, you can see all the way down to the Mediterranean from its south-facing viewpoints. For superb and amazingly cheap tapas, head to Bar Meson Torfa, where you’re likely to be the only foreigner.

Archidona is one of those towns that dot the Málaga countryside like giant snowflakes but which are so easy to drive past. But it is well worth stopping off here, not least because you’re likely to be the only traveller exploring its lovely old neighbourhood if you do. Particularly attractive is the eight-sided Plaza Ochavada, which is sanded over and converted into a bullring during the summer fiesta; surrounded by typical Andalusian townhouses and sunny terraces, it’s also a perfect place for a long, lazy lunch.

The villages of the Alpujarra region in the Sierra Nevada National Park – immortalised by Gerald Brenan in South From Granada – have remained unchanged for centuries. Bubión is the least touristic of them all: a rural farming settlement in which visitors are few and far between, it sits on the southern edge of the Sierra Nevada in the foothills of mainland Spain’s two highest mountains. Such is the altitude here that clouds drift amongst the scruffy rooftops, on top of which chimneys breathe smoke into the cold, pine-scented air.

Not for nothing is Écija – an enchanting town just an hour’s drive from Seville – known as La Sartén de Andalucia (The Frying Pan of Andalusia): summer temperatures once reached 52°C (125.6°F) here. In spring or autumn, though, Écija is a great day trip from the Andalusian capital, boasting a charming old town, ornate church towers decorated with glazed ceramics and some gorgeous 18th-century mansions. The must-see buildings are the Palacio de Peñaflor and the Parroquia Mayor de Santa Cruz, once the town’s main mosque.

It’s hard to imagine that Cudillero lies in the same country as the sun-baked pueblos blancos of Andalusia. This tiny fishing village clusters around a small cove in Asturias , the cider-producing region on Spain’s northern Atlantic coast. It is known for the banked multi-coloured houses set into the verdant hillside surrounding the harbour. To better acquaint yourself with Cudillero’s many charms, take the self-guided tour by following the blue fish that are painted onto the narrow winding streets; after, you can enjoy fresh seafood in one of the bars overlooking the Atlantic.

This former fishing village lies on Granada’s Costa Tropical, and while it’s less than 20 miles (32 km) from the hugely popular resort of Nerja , it is never overrun with tourists. Some wonderful bathing can be enjoyed off its two beaches, both of which back onto a row of funky chiringuitos. Its beguiling old town is split up into sections called manzanas – apples – and extends up the hill to the San Miguel castle. The English poet and Hispanophile Laurie Lee loved Almuñécar and was living here when the Spanish Civil War broke out in summer 1936.

Peñíscola is a walled medieval town situated on Valencia’s Orange Blossom coast, 90 miles (56 km) north of Valencia itself. Only in the past couple of years or so has this almost laughably pretty place started to attract foreign visitors (in part owed to Game of Thrones being filmed here in 2015), so now is a perfect time to go before it becomes really popular. The old town occupies a steep outcrop of land that is protected by formidable stone walls; climb to the top, and you’ll reach the 14th-century castle that is Peñíscola’s key historical attraction.

The frequently overlooked town of Cazorla spreads itself out at the foot of the Peña de los Halcones and the castle of Yedra, on one side of a steep and rocky valley. This romantic little town’s obscurity is surprising when you consider that it lies within the boundaries of the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas National Park – the largest protected natural area in Spain. There is some excellent trekking to be enjoyed in the park, which abounds with streams, waterfalls and crystal-clear springs.

No wonder this town has been listed as a National Monument since 1961. As viewed on the approach from Teruel in Aragón, the light pink buildings of Albarracín make for a breathtaking sight: they seem to rise organically from a sun-scorched mountain that towers above the Guadalaviar river. Wandering the town’s cobbled streets, you feel utterly disconnected from the modern world; indeed, looking out from the Torre del Andador, all you can see for miles in every direction are bare, stony mountains.

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Be prepared to visit Spain with these 16 things to know before you go

Jun 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Here's what you need to know to get ready for a trip to Spain © Flashpop / Getty Images

Spain has been home for the past 16 years, ever since I moved to its capital Madrid in my early thirties.

From day one, it was easy to be charmed by this warm and inviting country . It ticks a lot of  boxes in terms of what you’re looking for in a European destination – great cuisine and wine , spectacular landscapes , architectural gems, green spaces and a thriving art scene. 

Getting around the country is also very convenient, thanks to Spain's efficient and reliable multi-modal public transport system . And the Spanish people are some of the friendliest locals, who will happily go out of their way to point you in the right direction if you’re lost.

Of course there were still some cultural quirks I had to adjust to – for one, eating times in Spain are very late in comparison with the rest of the world's dining schedules. I still remember my early days in Madrid when my belly would be in outright rebellion while waiting for “early” dinner reservations at 9pm. And forget about making a speedy exit from social gatherings; in Spain saying farewell could take up another hour of your time.

Cultural idiosyncrasies aside, your trip to this incredible country can be your most memorable one yet if you plan well ahead, and follow these useful travel tips.

1. Pack warm clothes. Really.

There is a humorous Spanish expression that goes, “Hasta cuarenta de mayo, no te quites el sayo” , which translates to “Until the 40th of May, don’t remove your coat” – sage advice to keep a jacket handy until mid-June. While Spain may be famous for its blue skies and sun-drenched beaches, it actually has more colder seasons in the year than warm ones, during early spring (March to May), autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February). Regions in northern Spain, such as the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, have cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country. 

2. Being cashless is common

Card is king in Spain. The main tourist hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona , San Sebastián and Ibiza are generally credit card-friendly destinations. In fact, you could go cashless for days and pay for your meals, drinks, taxis and bus fares without a problem using a credit or debit card.

If you do bring cash, make sure you have loose change. Several establishments, bus and taxi drivers, especially on morning shifts, usually do not have change for bigger bills. So if you prefer paying cash, it’s a good idea to be stocked up on smaller bills (€5 and €10) and coins.

3. Choose your time to visit Madrid wisely

Think twice about visiting Madrid in August . Most establishments in the Spanish capital close, and Madrileños usually head for the beaches to escape the brutal August heat . 

4. Expect to eat late

Prepare for late Spanish dining times. Many tourists who come to Spain for the first time end up hungry while waiting for restaurants to open. Most restaurants open for lunch from 1pm to 4pm, and dinner from 8pm to 1am. A lot of establishments also close on Mondays. You can stave off hunger pangs before mealtimes by snacking on tapas – small savory plates that are usually free with a drink order in many Spanish cities. In San Sebastián or Bilbao in the Basque Country , you can savor pintxos , or bite-sized portions typically served on a slice of bread and skewered with a toothpick.

5. Ordering certain drinks will immediately mark you as a tourist

A popular drink among tourists, sangría is usually served in pitchers meant for sharing, and not by the glass. Instead, try ordering a local favorite that’s similar to sangría, tinto de verano , a concoction of red wine and lemon soda. 

Ask for a caña  like a local instead of a cerveza . A caña  is a small glass of beer on tap (about 250ml).

6. Tipping is not expected

European countries in general don’t have a tipping culture. But of course, it is very much appreciated – especially if you enjoyed good service. 

7. Don't eat food while you’re on the move

Eating is an age-old pleasure that must be savored unhurriedly, so it’s uncommon to see Spaniards biting sandwiches or munching on fries while walking down the street or riding public transportation. 

8. Look for fixed-price lunches

Order the menú del día (daily menu) for lunch on weekdays. Take your cue from the locals and ask for the fixed-price menu (ranging from €8 to €17) that includes a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread and coffee.

9. Eat late, stay late

Make time for sobremesa  – lingering long after a meal for a post-dining conversation. This is a hallmark of sociable Spanish culture, to extend conversations well beyond mealtimes to be able to enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible, usually over drinks.

10. Keep an eye on your belongings

Be vigilant of pickpockets and keep your belongings close. Pickpockets are unfortunately rampant in high tourist traffic areas. If you’re sitting at an outdoor table, watch out for vendors that get suspiciously close and distract you with their items for sale, such as flowers or lottery tickets, while they surreptitiously steal your wallet or mobile phone on the table (this is a modus operandi I’ve witnessed more than once!). 

11. You can drink tap water in Spain

Go ahead and drink the tap water. Spanish tap water or “agua de grifo” is safe to drink, though the taste varies across regions. 

12. There's one number for an emergency

Call 112 for any emergency. You can contact this number for any kind of emergency in Spain, even without a Spanish SIM card on your mobile phone. You’ll be connected to the right emergency service through multilingual operators. To contact the Spanish National Police, dial 091. 

 13. Dress appropriately when away from the beach

Opt for smart casual attire and avoid overly casual outfits like athleisure wear, beachwear, or excessively revealing clothing in the city. If you’re visiting religious sites such as churches, cathedrals or mosques, cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for these places.

14. Brush up on basic Spanish

Like any destination, it helps a lot if you know basic local phrases. While you can get by speaking English in the bigger, more touristy cities, it is a different story when visiting smaller, lesser-known towns outside the tourist radar. 

Don't say “no problemo”, which is incorrect. The correct phrase is “no hay problema” or more colloquially, say “no pasa nada” . 

15. Know what is considered polite

Greet people, even strangers. It’s commonplace to greet people in elevators, shops and along hallways. Compliment good service by saying “muy amable” . Meaning “very kind”, this is a commonly used polite phrase to express gratitude for someone’s helpfulness. It can be said in different situations – if a person has gone out of their way to assist you, like giving you directions, holding a door or giving up their seat for you. You can also say this to show your appreciation for customer service that goes above and beyond.

16. Don’t leave a social gathering without saying goodbye

It is generally frowned upon to leave an occasion without letting your host know. However, be prepared for a long, drawn out goodbye – the Spanish are highly sociable people who like extending conversations, leading to lengthy, and often multiple stages of farewells. 

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Top 10 Sustainable Destinations in Spain for your next green holiday

Sustainable tourism in Spain represents one of the most important development engines of the Country. A way of travelling, that respects nature, places and local communities are always more requested, not only in the Iberian peninsula but all over the world. In Spain, there are a lot of authentic and wonderful rural areas where ecotourism offers a real opportunity for social and economic development. Some of the particularly interesting areas include Asturian and Pyrenees, Catalonia (among Costa Brava and the hinterland), Andalusia, and the Canary and Balearic islands. Are you ready to discover 10 sustainable destinations in Spain perfect for a vacation in harmony with nature? From the North to the South of the Nation, here you have the most beautiful places for an eco-friendly holiday in Spain.

San Sebastiàn

The list of best sustainable destinations to not lose in Spain begins with one of the most known cities in the North of the Nation, in the Basque Country: San Sebastiàn . A wonderful location, rich in nature, art and history .

For breathing the culture you can explore the delightful alleys of the centre, observing the buildings, the mayor hall, the Deputación and Miramar Palaces, and the Costitución and Gipuzkoa squares. And then, the museums, the Victoria theatre, and the churches . The most characteristic one is the Buen Pastor Cathedral, in neo-Gothic style, built in 1897.

For hiking, some paths bring you to mount Urgull , where stands out Mota Castle. These paths are four and they all begin at different points, each of them hiding different surprises and unmissable views.

Just two kilometres away from the centre rise Donostia. From here you can organize hikes on the Igueldo mount , which you can reach on foot or by cableway, which still has the original coaches from 1912. You can cheer your eyes with the most suggestive glimpses of the city, enjoy an amusement park and reach the old lighthouse .

Between the two mounts, there is Concha Beach , the symbol of the city, one of the most beautiful urban beaches in the world. A wide and sandy bay, that still maintains a wild part and in its centre there is the rocky island of Santa Clara .

If you want to spend a vacation in the middle of the wild and uncontaminated nature , the perfect sustainable destination is Noja , on the Cantabria coast of Spain.

Here there are a lot of guided paths which cross the beaches, dunes, swamps, countryside and forest, where you can immerse yourself in the green and admire incredible landscapes. The Santoña, Victoria and Joyel lagoon Natural Park is a heritage that encloses 120 different species of aquatic birds and a lot more animals.

Among the most famous beaches there are Playa de Tregandín and Playa de Ris , with their solemn cliffs and luxurious flora. They are ideal to practice every aquatic sport.

And then, you can visit architectural excellences with elegant palaces and historical residences, sanctuaries and churches. The symbol of the city is a roman bridge that crosses the wide lagoon of Las Huelgueras . Furthermore, Noja is part of the Santiago Way .

Along the coasts of the “ Green Spain ”, on the shores of the Cantabrian sea, in Asturia, there is the vibrant Gijón. This sustainable destination in Spain has been a finalist in the program EDEN ( European Destination of ExcelleNce ) of the European Commission for sustainable tourism .

A naturalistic and cultural destination, to explore from the coast to the hinterland; rich in museums, squares, palaces and Roman ruins and you can’t miss the Clock Tower. There is also a promontory where it develops the fishermen’s neighbourhood of Cimadevilla , with a large park that extends into the ocean and shows incredible viewpoints.

Then there are a lot of paths, green areas, attractions for families, parks, lakes, mountains and walks along the sea. The most famous beach is Playa de San Lorenzo , long and sandy, with some isolated points with rocks and inlets.

The capital of Catalonia holds a primate. It has been the first city in the world to obtain certification as a sustainable tourism destination in Spain .

One of the most famous tourist destinations on the planet, symbol of overtourism, can be lived in a totally green way. You can enjoy the sun of the Mediterranean, the amusement and the local vivacities in the numerous green spaces with greenery and different styles.

You can move by bicycle , thanks to the numerous cycling tracks, or on foot, you can visit the centre and its palaces, the historical monuments, the squares, the artistic alleys, the architecture of Gaudí and the Rambla until the harbour. You can also visit the various parks, the hills of Tibidabo and Montjuïc and the numerous belvedere. Don’t forget to have a walk along the urban coast until the cleanest and crystal clear ones of Costa Brava .

Staying in Catalonia, among history and nature, we can talk about Girona , a little green and architectonic jewel .

Time ago the city was surrounded by medieval walls, now it develops along a maze of ancient alleys. here you can find the cathedral of Santa María , the museums and the colourful houses that appear on the shore of the river Onyar . Don’t miss the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, the churches and the ancient roman thermal baths. You can also walk on the archaeological path that brings you to the most important sites of the ancient city.

Among the natural parks you cannot miss the ones near the river Ter: La Devesa and Les Ribes del Ter , perfect for walking or doing sport. If you want to move by bike, follow the Greenways , and walk along the ancient railway tracks on two wheels.

Another ideal destination for sustainable tourism in Spain is the bustling and ecologic Valencia.

A dynamic city, rich in culture and traditions, ancient and modern at the same time with an attention to sustainability . With its dense network of cycling tracks that connect the city and excellent service of bike sharing , you can move well everywhere.

You can cross the entire city along the old river bed of the Turia river , which now is a florid garden 9 kilometres long that unites the Parc de Cabecera with the City of Arts and Science . A nice walk by bike can bring you to exciting museums, monuments and rivers hidden inside.

You also can’t miss the nice beaches with clean sea, among the most famous ones there are Playa La Malvarrosa and Playa de Las Arenas .

To tone up your legs and enjoy a wonderful view you can access the Miguelete tower , attached to the cathedral in gothic style. Climb the 207 steps of the spiral staircase, reach the terrace of the bell tower and make you be surprised by the impressive view of the city and the countryside.

Moreover, a few kilometres away from the city centre there is the magical Natural Park of Albufera . On its inside, you can find the biggest lagoon of the entire nation, an ancient sweet and salty, born from the merge of the rivers Turia and Jucar with the sea. It’s also a shelter for unique species of aquatic birds.

Doñana National Park

Now we move to the south, among the provinces of Huelva, Cadiz and Seville, in Andalusia, in the spectacular Doñana National Park . This is one of the most beautiful and important areas of Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A marvellous place where you can find different ecosystems : swamp, lagoon, kilometres of beaches, mobile dunes, cliffs, pine forests and Mediterranean scrub. Here coexist different animals like birds, deers and wild boars. Some species are even in danger of extinction like the imperial Spanish eagle or the Iberian lynx. Here there is a total of 500 vegetal and animal species of great ecologic value.

A spectacular scenario that changes every season and that amazes you continuously, in a territory that is extended for 543 square kilometres and that can give you a green trip full of emotions.

With its Western landscape , Almería, in the heart of Andalusia, offers the possibility of an adventure out of this world.

A city of Arab origins, with a rich historic past and an undisputed wild nature, that gifts amazing views. Among ochre rocks and desert streets, you can observe the typical country houses ( cortijos ) and enjoy a regenerating peace. You can visit the centre with its cobbled alleys, the coast, the churches, the museum and the cathedral. And the Alcazaba of Almería , the magnificent fortress located on a hill, where you can admire at 360° degrees the city and its amazing gardens.

The beaches are pieces of paradise, like the special Cabo de Gata . A natural reserve with uncontaminated beaches, cliffs overlooking the transparent sea and deep inlets. It almost looks like a lunar atmosphere.

Then there is the Sierra Nevada National Park , with its unique landscapes and with its endless possibilities. In winter and summer, you can dedicate yourself to the sport: skiing, cycling, hiking and even horse riding.

Finally, just half an hour away from the city, you can visit the desert of Tabernas , the only one in Europe, choosen by the movie director Sergio Leone, where he set his most famous movies. You can also enjoy the numerous trekking paths, in the middle of an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Furthermore, during the night you can admire an unforgettable starry sky .

Not only the mecca of amusement but also a safe and ecologic island, ideal for doing an experience of sustainable tourism in Spain. Formentera, in fact, with its wide natural spaces, has uncontaminated places that are perfect for living numerous adventures. The Consell Insular de Formentera is active for a lot of years to promote the island as as one of the best sustainable destinations in Spain, through numerous actions to protect the natural heritage .

The pearl of Baleares will bring you on a trip that will open all your senses. Among landscapes of rare beauty, colourful villages, and white and infinite beaches with crystal clear and blue water, you can practice a lot of activities. You can walk and hike on foot, by bike or with a horse, through the 32 green itineraries , and do every type of aquatic sport.

Moreover, you cannot miss making the route of the lighthouses and hills of the island, from the highland of La Mola to Cap de Barbaria .

El Hierro is a small island that is located more west than the Canary islands. With heavenly beaches, rich greenery, volcanos and a favourable climate and many naturalistic attractions , is a land of huge impact.

Moreover, the island distinguishes itself for its commitment to the safeguarding of the local ecosystem . Declared Biosphere Reserve , is a place where there are many hike paths, surrounded by various green and luxuriant forests. The waters are crystal clear and the spectacular ocean floors are full of life. The Marine Reserve La Restinga is an underwater temple, known at an international level and populated with numerous animals.

The island has approved time ago a sustainable development model , based on the recycling of waste, sustainable transportation, organic agriculture and on projects that regard the use of solar energy and hydrogen cars. It has been the first island completely self-sufficient thanks to the usage of renewable energy .

Breathe pure air, enjoy the belvedere on the sea and immerse yourself in the meditative peace that the uncontaminated nature can inspire you.

In conclusion, sustainability is one of the new pillars of Spanish tourism. We have suggested to you some of the most beautiful and sustainable destinations in Spain to travel respecting the environment, discover exceptional places, and live a unique and rewarding experience. Which will be your next green destination?

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