8 Most Underrated and Beautiful Places You Must Visit in Spain
Every list of top places to visit in Spain includes the usual suspects – Barcelona, Madrid, Sevilla, maybe Valencia. But Spain is brimming with beautiful, lesser-known destinations you shouldn’t overlook! If you’re looking for more exciting destinations to add to your Spain itinerary, here are the 8 most beautiful and underrated cities in Spain to visit.
This is the seventh part of the Spain Bucket List Series. Here’s the complete series:
Culture: 9 Experiences You Must Have in Spain
Food: 6 Dishes to Eat in Spain Besides Paella and Tapas
Packing tips: The Ultimate Packing List for Your Summer Vacation in Spain
Travel Tips: 10 Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting Spain
Inspiration:15 Photos That Will Inspire You to Visit the Cies Islands
Off the beaten path: 8 Underrated Cities You Need To Visit in Spain
Beaches: The 10 Best Beaches in Spain You Should Visit Before You Die
Solo Travel: 10 Unconventional Tips For Female Solo Travelers in Spain
Barcelona: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona
Granada: Why Granada is the Best Place to Visit in Spain
The most underrated cities in Spain to add to your bucket list
Granada
Granada is the one city you really must visit in Spain. Seriously, forget Madrid or Barcelona. While they offer plenty of great attractions, Madrid and Barcelona are too touristy and commercial for you to have a traditional Spanish experience, if that’s what you’re looking for.
Granada truly embodies the Spanish spirit. It’s the idea of Spain you have in mind – the relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, spirited people, grand architecture, rich history, Flamenco shows, narrow streets lined with tapas bars. Granada has it all.
A mosaic of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish cultures, Granada is home to some of the most iconic architecture in Spain. You can’t leave the city without visiting La Alhambra, a 900-year-old palace and fortress that housed the Muslim kings. The intricacy of the designs will live you in awe! Be sure to do a guided tour if you can.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Alhambra also provides incredible views of the entire city of Granada. Across from it is the Mirador de San Nicolas, a great viewpoint to see La Alhambra while enjoying some impromptu Flamenco performances. There are also some bars and restaurants there where you can enjoy dinner while watching the sunset over La Alhambra.
You also have to see a Flamenco show in Granada! Andalucia is the birthplace of Flamenco so the performances you’ll see there are the most authentic in Spain. In Granada, there are cave bars in the Gitano (gypsy) district where Flamenco dancers perform with unmatched intensity and gusto. Highly recommended!
Granada is perfect if you’re looking to experience the essence of the Spanish lifestyle in a not-so-touristy environment. This city is undoubtedly traditional and true to its roots. You won’t find many restaurants and stores catering just to tourists, only tours. Go to Granada! You’ll thank me later.
Cordoba
Just 2 hours west of Granada is Córdoba, a perfect escape for history buffs and architecture lovers. Even the entrance to the city is a work of art. It was in Córdoba that the Spanish monarchs, Isabella and Fernando, gave Christopher Columbus the official blessing to go and explore the new world. In its golden age, Córdoba had 1 million inhabitants and was a major trade center in Spain. With its colorful streets and grand architecture, Cordoba is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
Today, Córdoba is a calm city of 300,000 with some of the best-preserved remnants of both the Moorish era and the reconquest of Spain. The top place to see is La Mesquita de Córdoba, a mosque-turned-church in the Old Town. After that, you need to go to the Jewish quarter and snap some photos of the beautiful white homes with blue flower pots. Stunning! Cordoba is one of those cities in Spain where every corner is picture perfect. The Roman Bridge that leads into the old city provides an amazing backdrop for photos. Cordoba is small so you can see the highlights on a day trip.
Vigo
The northwestern region of Galicia is beyond underrated, and so is one of its largest cities – Vigo. The best reason to go to the port city of Vigo is to visit the Cies Islands. These islands are a protected natural habitat with some of the best beaches in Spain. With stunning beaches, great food, and Galician culture, Vigo is one of the most unique places to visit in Spain.
In fact, a few years ago, National Geographic named the Cies Islands’ Rodas Beach as the best in the world! I went there and wouldn’t completely agree, but it’s still among the most pristine beaches I’ve visited. Because the islands are protected by the government of Galicia, they are virtually spotless and the British water is a deep green. You even need to obtain a permit to visit these islands!
Besides the Cies Islands, Vigo has a charming old town with views of the Atlantic coast. Like the rest of Galicia, it is famous for its seafood, particularly pulpo (octopus.) Vigo is a large city but most of the attractions are concentrated by the coast. You can see the city in 2-3 days.
Santiago de Compostela
The capital of Galicia is another way underrated city in Spain. Santiago de Compostela is the endpoint of the famous Camino de Santiago, a famous Christian pilgrimage. But there is so much more to do in this picturesque city! The architecture alone makes Santiago de Compostela one of the best cities to visit in Spain.
First, let’s talk about the food. Head to Rua Franco in the Old Town for the best seafood of your life. Seafood restaurants of every kind line the streets. You can order a mariscada, a large tray of mussels, clams, shrimp, scallops, and lobster for two plus drinks. The price? Just 15 euros each. My friend and I shared a seafood feast at Bodegon de Xulio. If you want to try the famous pulpo, head to a restaurant called Bodegon os Concheiros. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Rua Franco.
Bodegon de Xulio:
Bodegon os Concheiros
Address: Rua de Berlin, 3, 15707 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
While in Santiago de Compostela, you will also want to see the iconic cathedral where the Camino de Santiago ends. Spain is home to tons of cathedrals, but this one is on another league in terms of design and grandeur. The Baroque design inside is equally breathtaking.
Bilbao
I might be a bit biased because I studied abroad in Bilbao for 5 months, but this Basque city doesn’t get as much love as it deserves! Bilbao is a quaint, green city with rolling hills, rivers, and a super laid-back atmosphere. It feels more like a big town than a city. Bilbao is one of the most unique places to visit in Spain. Seriously, there is nowhere else like it!
Although it’s most famous for the Guggenheim Museum, the best thing about Bilbao is the pace of life. Spaniards, in general, tend to live a leisurely way of life. In Bilbao, people are even more carefree, although somewhat reserved. The city has a big bar culture. Bar hopping is a daily affair in the evenings, and the drinks are ridiculously cheap (although not as strong for some reason.) The tapas bars are some of the best I’ve been to in Spain, after 3 visits and 16 months traveling around the country. The only contender that comes close is nearby San Sebastian.
Another not-so-known fact about Bilbao is that it has some beautiful surrounding beaches. The nearby towns of Getxo and Algorta, just a 20-30 minute train ride away. You can take surfing lessons at the beach in Algorta.
Toledo
Toledo is a perfect day trip from Madrid. Just a 20-30 minute train ride, this city is full of picture-perfect streets and architecture. In fact, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the large number of historical monuments there. Perched on a hill and surrounded by a gorgeous landscape, Toledo is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
Toledo was ruled by the Romans, Visigoths, and Arabs so you will see the influence of all three cultures throughout the city. Some of the top sights to see are the Alcazar de Toledo (Muslim palace), Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes (gothic monastery), Museo del Ejercito (military museum)
When I visited Toledo, I had lunch at El Trebol, a cave restaurant not too far from the Museo del Ejercito. I highly recommend it – great food and cool atmosphere.
El Trebol
Address: Calle de Santa Fe, 1, 45001 Toledo, Spain
Segovia
Segovia, which looks more like a kingdom than a city, is most famous for its Roman aqueducts and Gothic architecture. The biggest reason to visit, though, is the castle. Did you know that the Alcazar de Segovia (Castle of Segovia) was the inspiration behind the castle in Cinderella? Google it. They are virtually identical. This castle alone makes Segovia one of the best cities to visit in Spain.
Just a one hour drive from Madrid, Segovia is a perfect destination for a day trip. You can see the city in one day because it’s small and compact. Besides the aqueduct and the castle, Segovia is home to dozens of gothic monasteries, churches, and chapels. Some notable ones include La Iglesia de Esteban, La Iglesia de San Martin, El Monasterio de Santa Maria de Parral. Segovia is also famous for one dish: cochinillo (suckling pig.) If you eat meat, you can’t leave Segovia without trying that dish!
You may also like:
Spain Foodie Guide: 6 Dishes To Eat in Spain Besides Paella and Tapas
Zaragoza
Last but not least, we have Zaragoza. This city, located in the region of Aragon and not far from Barcelona, is virtually unheard of among tourists in Spain. It’s such a shame because Zaragoza is such a charming city. It’s also not touristy at all so you can visit here if you want to escape the crowds in Barcelona.
La Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar (Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar) is the most awe-inspiring church I’ve seen in all of Spain! Located next to the Ebro River, the largest river in Spain, this Basilica has Gothic and Roman influences. You can purchase a ticket for around 3 euros and go to the top of the church to get a bird’s eye view of the city. The roof of the church is a work of art in itself! Zaragoza is small and walkable so it’s a great day trip destination from Barcelona or Madrid.
Every October 12, Zaragoza celebrates the Fiestas del Pilar in honor of its Patron Saint. Thousands of people descend on the city for the festivities, which include parades, fireworks, and lots of beer. This makes Zaragoza another one of the most unique places to visit in Spain.
There you have it – the 8 most beautiful and underrated cities in Spain to add to your bucket list. How many of them have you visited? Comment below.
One last thing: if you liked this post, please share!
Somto Ugwueze
Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.
![Let’s talk about money in Croatia 🇭🇷 (and the Balkans)
📌[Save and Share]
⚠️ Quick tip: Don’t exchange money or take out money from any place that has a big, yellow sign
On my most recent trip to Croatia with @girlslovetravel, I learned that from the locals and other seasoned travelers.
I wanted to pass along the message to help you guys avoid falling for this trap, because I saw so many people getting ripped off.
If you’re traveling through Europe, especially in the Mediterranean, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe, you’re going to see these super-convenient money exchanges and ATMS.
With their big, yellow signs, these are hard to miss.
And they’re so seductive because they’re always conveniently located.
But don’t do it.
These places are known to have the worst exchange rates and sometimes hidden fees.
You’ll end up getting significantly less money than other comparable money exchanges.
The ATMS could charge you all sorts of ridiculous fees, which happened to one of my travel friends.
If you walk away from the touristy city centers, you can find places with better exchange rates.
Do your research.
Compare places, especially if you want to exchange a chunk of money.
Don’t go to the first place you see because it’s convenient.
Any other tips for exchanging money in Europe? Drop them below👇🏾](https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/363495583_681336997355409_8269653626385180880_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c4dd86&_nc_ohc=_vy0qj-WxFoAX-mjbwg&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&oh=00_AfAPqz89qBOUgOh00AfVwwwiMtUalPvCK3LjBZqNY1ZuAQ&oe=657A6126)
![Let’s talk about money in Croatia 🇭🇷 (and the Balkans)
📌[Save and Share]
⚠️ Quick tip: Don’t exchange money or take out money from any place that has a big, yellow sign
On my most recent trip to Croatia with @girlslovetravel, I learned that from the locals and other seasoned travelers.
I wanted to pass along the message to help you guys avoid falling for this trap, because I saw so many people getting ripped off.
If you’re traveling through Europe, especially in the Mediterranean, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe, you’re going to see these super-convenient money exchanges and ATMS.
With their big, yellow signs, these are hard to miss.
And they’re so seductive because they’re always conveniently located.
But don’t do it.
These places are known to have the worst exchange rates and sometimes hidden fees.
You’ll end up getting significantly less money than other comparable money exchanges.
The ATMS could charge you all sorts of ridiculous fees, which happened to one of my travel friends.
If you walk away from the touristy city centers, you can find places with better exchange rates.
Do your research.
Compare places, especially if you want to exchange a chunk of money.
Don’t go to the first place you see because it’s convenient.
Any other tips for exchanging money in Europe? Drop them below👇🏾](https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/363496891_3960588657501192_2279069811238681499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c4dd86&_nc_ohc=LtJTETr6UhgAX99KV_j&_nc_oc=AQmAmH8fEtUCrcX0JC3ab3nmi5MRB4e2Ji-S98sk2ENU8ZKpshumpTsxh4N_r9N8gx8&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&oh=00_AfBLHqP4rlViQp28OGkZfCUrWhgAEJg_pGXIiiilHsTNeQ&oe=657922C5)
![Let’s talk about money in Croatia 🇭🇷 (and the Balkans)
📌[Save and Share]
⚠️ Quick tip: Don’t exchange money or take out money from any place that has a big, yellow sign
On my most recent trip to Croatia with @girlslovetravel, I learned that from the locals and other seasoned travelers.
I wanted to pass along the message to help you guys avoid falling for this trap, because I saw so many people getting ripped off.
If you’re traveling through Europe, especially in the Mediterranean, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe, you’re going to see these super-convenient money exchanges and ATMS.
With their big, yellow signs, these are hard to miss.
And they’re so seductive because they’re always conveniently located.
But don’t do it.
These places are known to have the worst exchange rates and sometimes hidden fees.
You’ll end up getting significantly less money than other comparable money exchanges.
The ATMS could charge you all sorts of ridiculous fees, which happened to one of my travel friends.
If you walk away from the touristy city centers, you can find places with better exchange rates.
Do your research.
Compare places, especially if you want to exchange a chunk of money.
Don’t go to the first place you see because it’s convenient.
Any other tips for exchanging money in Europe? Drop them below👇🏾](https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/364071653_816389820137326_3597345990832080157_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c4dd86&_nc_ohc=MYF5J3kz_SAAX8LrCKa&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&oh=00_AfAyBMpI95aIAIlzLZ-1w4-QTfs64lpl2_uEMGTDvZljQA&oe=6578CBC2)
![Let’s talk about money in Croatia 🇭🇷 (and the Balkans)
📌[Save and Share]
⚠️ Quick tip: Don’t exchange money or take out money from any place that has a big, yellow sign
On my most recent trip to Croatia with @girlslovetravel, I learned that from the locals and other seasoned travelers.
I wanted to pass along the message to help you guys avoid falling for this trap, because I saw so many people getting ripped off.
If you’re traveling through Europe, especially in the Mediterranean, the Balkans, and Eastern Europe, you’re going to see these super-convenient money exchanges and ATMS.
With their big, yellow signs, these are hard to miss.
And they’re so seductive because they’re always conveniently located.
But don’t do it.
These places are known to have the worst exchange rates and sometimes hidden fees.
You’ll end up getting significantly less money than other comparable money exchanges.
The ATMS could charge you all sorts of ridiculous fees, which happened to one of my travel friends.
If you walk away from the touristy city centers, you can find places with better exchange rates.
Do your research.
Compare places, especially if you want to exchange a chunk of money.
Don’t go to the first place you see because it’s convenient.
Any other tips for exchanging money in Europe? Drop them below👇🏾](https://www.somtoseeks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/363495583_681336997355409_8269653626385180880_n-256x320.jpg)
When it comes to Spain, bigger cities like Barcelona and Madrid get the most spotlight and visitors. But these smaller and relatively unknown cities that you have listed out certainly deserve more attention. Of the 8, Segovia with its beautiful cathedral, Gothic architecture and Roman aqueducts is totally my kind of city. I would love to visit it.
I loved Granada, Toledo and Segovia. I would say they’re not to be missed. I wanted to get to Cordoba but ran out of time. Great post!
Good Places, but I would add few more places like Villea, Alicante and of course few places on Majorca islands 🙂
We have not visited any of these cities yet. We actually visited Barcelona some years ago and it was quite crowded, so I am interested to check out Zaragoza and get a less touristy look at this beautiful region. Also, you mention the Tapas in Bilbao. We are always looking for the best tapas wherever we go, so this is definitely on our list now! Thanks for the great info.
This list is definitely a great start! Zaragoza, Cordoba (especially during Patios) and Toledo are stunning! I’d also include Girona as well! But I believe the real Spanish gems lie in its villages, such as Besalú, Santillana del Mar, Mijas Pueblo, etc…
I always dreamt of visiting Spain and finally went to Barcelona a few years ago. Unfortunately, I found it quite disappointing and think a lot of that disappointment stemmed from only seeing tourists all day. Would love to go back to Spain but to somewhere less known, Granada sounds really good!
Yes, you should definitely visit Granada! It’s truly spectacular and underrated, one of the best places to have an authentic Spanish experience. The tapas are free, too. There are tourists, but it isn’t overwhelming.
I was at the Alhambra 30 years ago in the off-season and there was hardly anybody there. It was great. Even stayed at the Alhambra Hotel which is opposite. However, I recently read that there are now 2 million visitors a year. That is almost as many as Yellowstone. I cannot really see how they could cope with that many tourists.
Oh wow, that’s amazing that you got to experience La Alhambra before all the tourists descended. It must have been amazing. I would love to stay at the Alhambra Hotel someday.
Don’t miss Toledo, and island of mallorca I should strongly recommend Deya, Puerto Soller, Pollensa, valldemosa
I’ve been to Toledo and Mallorca but not the others. Will have to check them out. Thanks for recommending!
these places are sooooo beautiful
Hi Lillian, I’m glad you liked these places.
I went to Spain two years ago, and I visited Valencia and Murcia. You should defenetly go there. Valencia has multiple ancien monuments, they are all so beautiful, it also has The Oceanographic, 100% recommeded. About Murcia, its a cultural city, it has an amazing cathedral, and food could not be better, people is very kind, and there are lots of interesting monuments to see. I dont know about the rest of Spain, but this two cities could not be better. Love them. Go there.
Hi Sara, thanks for sharing your opinions about visiting Spain. Yes, Valencia and Murcia are worth visiting.