Spain has a major tourism problem—it has too much of it. Over the summer, visitors flocked to the coastal country in droves, causing massive overwhelm in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
If you want to visit Spain, consider getting off the beaten path and exploring the country’s most covetable hidden gems. You’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds, better prices, and a truly unique getaway.
These are the underrated cities in Spain you should know about:
1. Girona
Medieval walls, Roman ruins, and colorful buildings line the river in Barri Vell, Girona’s Old Town. Cross the Eiffel Bridge, then head over to El Call, the city’s Jewish Quarter, for more history.
Girona may be familiar to avid Game of Thrones fans. The city boasts several filming sites, including the Girona Cathedral and the Arabic Baths.
2. Burgos
One of Spain’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals is located in Burgos, rivaling the Basílica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona. A UNESCO site, Burgos Cathedral is famous for its ornate façade, spires, and stained glass. The Museum of Human Evolution might be one of the city’s most unique attractions. This museum displays findings from Atapuerca, an archaeological site with remains dating back over 900,000 years.
For amazing views of Burgos, hike up to the Castle of Burgos. This ancient castle offers panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to explore the underground tunnels once used by medieval soldiers.
3. Jerez de la Frontera
Culture reigns supreme in this city, from flamenco to sherry. Jerez is the birthplace of sherry. Visitors can tour historic bodegas like González Byass to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy tastings.
Culture reigns supreme in this city. Visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art to see some of Spain’s finest equestrian performances. The school’s choreographed shows truly celebrate Andalusian horsemanship. Jerez is also a flamenco hotspot. Venues like Tabanco El Pasaje offer authentic performances in an intimate setting.
4. Zaragoza
Start your time in Zaragoza by visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. This Baroque basilica features stunning interior frescoes by Goya and is one of Spain’s most significant religious sites. Architecture lovers will also enjoy Aljafería Palace. A mix of Islamic and Gothic architecture, this fortified palace was once the residence of Muslim rulers and Spanish kings.
As you work up an appetite exploring, step into Zaragoza’s vibrant food scene. El Tubo, the city’s bustling tapas district, is one of the best places to experience it. Mercado Central also offers fresh local produce and unique regional foods.
5. Cuenca
Cuenca’s most iconic attraction is Casas Colgadas, the hanging houses. Perched precariously on a cliffside, these medieval houses provide incredible views over the Huécar River Gorge. See contemporary art at the Spanish Abstract Art Museum, which has a vast collection of contemporary Spanish art, and stroll past Cuenca Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral and one of Spain’s oldest.
Just outside Cuenca, visit Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City). At this natural rock formation site, wind and water have sculpted rocks into bizarre shapes, including ships, animals, and even a giant mushroom.
6. Cáceres
Cáceres’ entire old town, Ciudad Monumental, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobbled streets and medieval palaces preserving its charm.
Museo de Cáceres is one of the best stops in the city. Set within a Renaissance-era palace, this museum showcases ancient artifacts, Roman art, and a collection of Islamic and Christian art. If you’re looking to get away from urban life and into nature, head over to Monfragüe National Park instead, which is a haven for birdwatching.
7. León
One of León’s top attractions is now a luxury Parador hotel, allowing visitors the opportunity to stay in history. The San Marcos Monastery is an architectural masterpiece with roots dating back to the Knights of Santiago.
Barrio Húmedo is León’s culinary heart and one of its most worthwhile things to do for visitors. Cozy tapas bars and local specialties like cecina, a cured meat unique to the region, are available in plenty here.
8. Santander
Santander is choose-your-own-adventure: Spend the day exploring art and history or relax on the city’s sandy, sunny beaches like Playa de los Peligros, where coastal hiking and water sports are popular.
If you choose to stay on land, stop by Magdalena Palace. This seaside palace was once a royal residence and sits on a picturesque peninsula with walking trails, mini-zoos, and panoramic views. To experience modern Santander, visit Centro Botín, a modern art center with rotating exhibitions, performances, and activities.
9. Almería
It’s impossible to visit Almeria without seeing Alcazaba of Almería. One of the largest fortresses in Spain, Alcazaba of Almería has lush gardens, historic ruins, and sweeping views of the city and sea.
Get outside of the city to the Tabernas Desert. Known as “Mini-Hollywood,” this desert has served as a film set for countless movies, hence the Western-style towns in it. Cabo de Gata Natural Park is better suited for those wanting to get closer to nature, with beaches, salt flats, and volcanic cliffs. Playa de los Muertos’ crystal-clear waters are particularly beautiful.
10. Lugo
You may have never heard of Lugo, but history sure has. Lugo is home to the only complete Roman city wall in the world. This UNESCO site is an impressive feat of ancient architecture, with towers and walkways offering views of the city.
In the city, Praza Maior, its main square, is where cafes and tapas bars serve the region’s famous octopus dishes. You’ll also find the Cathedral of Santa María, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral known for its unique blend of architectural styles.
11. Vitoria-Gasteiz
Vitoria-Gasteiz bridges medieval history and contemporary progress. In the city’s medieval quarter, wander down cobbled streets, pass by beautiful churches, and step into unique shops to grab a few souvenirs. In contrast, Vitoria-Gasteiz’s Artium Museum is a contemporary art museum showcasing the best of Basque and Spanish modern art, with innovative installations and exhibitions.
Anillo Verde (Greenbelt Park) surrounds the city, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature, with trails and lakes for picnics.
12. Logroño
You could certainly spend a day in Logroño visiting cultural sites like the Church of Santa María de la Redonda, which is known for its baroque towers and artwork, including a Michelangelo painting, but it’s wine that attracts visitors to this town.
Logroño is in the heart of Rioja wine country, and there are plenty of tours available to spend a day at surrounding wineries. In town, lively La Laurel Tapas Street is where you can sample Rioja wine and indulge in classic pintxos (small snacks).
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
