Spain offers far more than the typical tourist trail of Barcelona and Madrid. From mountain villages where time stands still to mysterious archaeological sites that baffle scientists, from world-renowned party destinations to sophisticated cultural capitals – this diverse country caters to every type of traveler.
This comprehensive guide explores 20 of the best destinations in Spain across four distinct categories: peaceful retreats for those seeking tranquility, historic sites rich in culture and heritage, hidden gems that most tourists never discover, and vibrant nightlife destinations where the party never stops.
Whether you’re planning a quiet mountain escape, a cultural deep-dive into Spain’s layered history, an adventure to unexplored corners, or nights filled with world-class entertainment, these carefully selected destinations showcase the authentic Spain beyond the obvious choices.
- Best destinations in Spain: Quiet Places in Spain
- Best destinations in Spain: Historical Places to Visit
- Best destinations in Spain: Hidden Gems
- Best destinations in Spain: Best Places in Spain for Nightlife
- 1. Best Places in Spain for nightlife: Ibiza
- 2. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Lloret de Mar, Catalonia
- 3. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Barcelona, Catalonia
- 4. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Playa de las Américas, Tenerife
- 5. Best places in Spain for nightlife: San Sebastián, Basque Country
- Planning Your Spanish Adventure
- Conclusion
Best destinations in Spain: Quiet Places in Spain
1. Quiet places in Spain: Siurana, Catalonia
- Setting: Mountain village perched on dramatic cliffs
- Population: Under 30 residents
- Perfect For: Rock climbing, hiking, complete disconnection
Perched precariously on a cliff edge in Catalonia’s Prades Mountains, Siurana feels like Spain’s most dramatic village. With fewer than 30 permanent residents, this tiny settlement offers breathtaking views over the Siurana reservoir and surrounding valleys.
The village is renowned among rock climbers for its world-class limestone routes, but non-climbers will find equal magic in the medieval stone houses, the small Romanesque church, and the legend of Queen Abdelazia who supposedly leaped from the cliffs rather than surrender to Christian forces.
The silence here is profound – broken only by the wind through pine trees and the distant calls of birds of prey. Stone paths wind between ancient houses, and every corner offers another spectacular vista. For those seeking true peace, Siurana delivers an almost mystical tranquility.
2. Quiet places in Spain: North Tenerife Villages
- Setting: Volcanic landscapes and traditional Canarian architecture
- Population: Small rural communities scattered across the north
- Perfect For: Authentic island culture, nature walks, volcanic hiking
While southern Tenerife bustles with resort tourism, the north remains authentically Canarian. Traditional villages like Taganana, Garachico, and La Orotava showcase the island’s pre-tourism character with their colonial architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and unhurried pace of life.
Located within the Anaga Rural Park, Taganana offers breathtaking views of cliffs and beaches, as well as access to hiking trails through laurel forests. Playa de Benijo, known for its sunsets, is also nearby.
These villages provide perfect bases for exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Teide National Park, hiking through laurel forests, or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of traditional Canarian life. Local guachinches (family-run restaurants) serve home-cooked meals, and volcanic wine tastings offer unique flavors shaped by the island’s dramatic geology.
For more information about Tenerife you can read my article about the island and my favourite spots there.
Some free appetizers in a guachince
3. Quiet places in Spain: La Seu d’Urgell, Catalonia
- Setting: Pyrenean valley town near Andorra border
- Population: Around 12,000 but maintains quiet mountain atmosphere
- Perfect For: Cathedral visits, mountain hiking, peaceful retreat
Nestled in a Pyrenean valley near the Andorran border, La Seu d’Urgell combines architectural splendor with mountain tranquility. The town’s magnificent Romanesque cathedral, one of Catalonia’s finest, dominates the skyline and provides a focal point for this peaceful mountain community.
The cathedral, with its distinctive twin towers and beautiful cloister, houses important medieval manuscripts and religious art. But beyond its architectural treasures, La Seu d’Urgell offers a genuinely relaxed atmosphere where locals still gather in traditional cafés and the pace of life follows mountain rhythms.
Surrounding hiking trails lead into the high Pyrenees, making this an ideal base for exploring Aigüestortes National Park or simply enjoying riverside walks along the Segre River. The weekly market brings local produce and crafts, while the town’s thermal springs provide additional relaxation opportunities.
4. Quiet places in Spain: Zumaia, Basque Country
- Setting: Coastal town famous for dramatic geological formations
- Population: Around 9,000 residents
- Perfect For: Geology enthusiasts, coastal walks, peaceful seaside retreat
Zumaia gained international fame as a Game of Thrones filming location, but this small Basque coastal town offers much more than cinematic beauty. The dramatic flysch formations – layers of rock that tell millions of years of Earth’s history – create one of Europe’s most spectacular coastlines.
Beyond the geological wonder, Zumaia maintains the authentic charm of a working Basque fishing port. The old town clusters around the Gothic church of San Pedro, while traditional pintxos bars serve fresh seafood and local Txakoli wine. The atmosphere remains genuinely local, with fishing boats still working from the small harbor.
Coastal walks along the GR-121 trail reveal hidden coves, dramatic cliff formations, and sweeping ocean views. The town’s two beaches – Itzurun and Santiago – provide peaceful spots for contemplation, especially outside the brief summer season when the dramatic Basque coastline reveals its most peaceful character.
5. Quiet places in Spain: Trevélez, Andalusia
- Setting: Highest village in mainland Spain (1,486m) in Sierra Nevada
- Population: Around 800 residents
- Perfect For: Mountain hiking, altitude retreat, traditional mountain culture
At 1,486 meters above sea level, Trevélez holds the distinction of being mainland Spain’s highest village. Perched dramatically on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, this whitewashed Alpujarran village offers pure mountain air, stunning alpine views, and a pace of life dictated by centuries-old traditions.
The village is famous throughout Spain for its jamón serrano, cured in the clean mountain air at this altitude. But beyond its culinary reputation, Trevélez provides an excellent base for exploring the Sierra Nevada’s hiking trails, including routes to Mulhacén, mainland Spain’s highest peak.
The village itself invites peaceful exploration with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and mountain vistas. Local workshops still produce traditional crafts, while village bars serve hearty mountain food. The thin air and dramatic setting create a sense of being removed from the modern world, making Trevélez perfect for those seeking genuine mountain tranquility.
Don’t eat pizza in Trevélez though, eat JAMON! Or eat pizza with JAMON!
Best destinations in Spain: Historical Places to Visit
1. Historical places to visit in Spain: Granada, Andalusia
- Historical Period: Nasrid Kingdom (13th-15th century
- UNESCO Status: Alhambra and Generalife World Heritage Site
- Must-See Features: Alhambra complex, Nasrid Palaces, Generalife gardens
Granada represents the final chapter of eight centuries of Muslim rule in Spain. The Alhambra palace complex stands as perhaps Europe’s finest example of Islamic architecture, with intricate geometric patterns, peaceful courtyards, and gardens that represent paradise on earth.
The Albaicín neighborhood, with its narrow streets and traditional carmenes (houses with gardens), preserves the atmosphere of medieval Al-Andalus.
2. Historical places to visit in Spain: Madrid and surroundings
- Historical Period: Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties, Golden Age
- UNESCO Status: Multiple protected sites
- Must-See Features: Prado Museum, Royal Palace, historic neighborhoods, Toledo city
Spain’s capital showcases centuries of imperial history through world-class museums, royal palaces, and atmospheric neighborhoods. The Golden Triangle of Art – Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums – houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, Picasso, and other Spanish masters.
The Royal Palace, with over 3,000 rooms, represents European royal grandeur at its peak. Habsburg Madrid, centered around Plaza Mayor and the labyrinthine streets of La Latina, preserves the character of Spain’s Golden Age capital.
From Madrid you can also do a 1 day trip to the medieval city of Toledo.
3. Historical places to visit in Spain: Bilbao, Basque Country
- Historical Period: Industrial revolution to contemporary cultural renaissance
- UNESCO Status: Various protected industrial heritage sites
- Must-See Features: Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, industrial heritage
Bilbao exemplifies successful urban transformation from industrial port to cultural capital. The titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum revolutionized the city’s image, but the historic Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) preserves centuries of Basque culture and tradition.
The city’s remarkable transformation showcases how industrial heritage can coexist with cutting-edge architecture and world-renowned gastronomy.
4. Historical places to visit in Spain: Zaragoza, Aragon
- Historical Period: Roman, Moorish, Christian (multi-layered history)
- UNESCO Status: Mudéjar Architecture World Heritage Site
- Must-See Features: Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, Roman walls
Zaragoza reveals 2,000 years of continuous occupation through Roman walls, Moorish palaces, and Christian basilicas. The Basilica del Pilar, one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites, dominates the Ebro River skyline.
The Aljafería Palace showcases exquisite Moorish architecture, while Roman Caesaraugusta remains visible throughout the modern city.
5. Historical places to visit in Spain: Girona, Catalonia
- Historical Period: Roman, medieval, Jewish heritage
- UNESCO Status: Various protected medieval sites
- Must-See Features: Jewish Quarter, colorful riverside houses, medieval walls
Girona’s perfectly preserved medieval center includes one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish quarters. The colorful houses along the Onyar River create one of Spain’s most photographed scenes, while the cathedral’s Gothic nave is among the world’s widest.
Game of Thrones filming brought international attention, but Girona’s medieval charm and excellent gastronomy scene ensure lasting appeal.
– not the typical Girona photo, focused on historical heritage, but I hope it is giving a vibe –
Best destinations in Spain: Hidden Gems
1. Hidden gems in Spain: Güímar, Tenerife
- What Makes It Special: Mysterious step pyramids and astronomical phenomena
- Crowd Level: Locals and curious travelers, no mass tourism
- Best For: History buffs and mystery enthusiasts
The Güímar Pyramids remain one of Spain’s most intriguing mysteries. These six step pyramids, built from volcanic stone without mortar, puzzled researchers until Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl studied them in the 1990s. His research suggested possible astronomical alignments and transoceanic cultural connections.
The Ethnographic Park now surrounding the pyramids explores various theories about their origin and purpose, while botanical gardens showcase plants from around the world.
2. Hidden gems in Spain: Torla-Ordesa, Aragon
- What Makes It Special: Gateway to Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
- Crowd Level: Nature lovers but not overcrowded
- Best For: Serious hikers and nature photographers
This traditional Pyrenean village provides access to one of Spain’s most spectacular national parks. Ordesa y Monte Perdido offers dramatic limestone canyons, cascading waterfalls, and some of Europe’s most challenging mountain hiking.
The village itself preserves traditional Aragonese architecture with stone houses and slate roofs, while serving as base camp for serious mountain adventures
3. Hidden gems in Spain: Ebro Delta, Catalonia
- What Makes It Special: Spain’s largest wetland with unique ecosystem
- Crowd Level: Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts mainly
- Best For: Birdwatching, beach camping , eco-tourism
Spain’s largest wetland creates a unique landscape of rice fields, lagoons, and salt flats. Over 300 bird species, including flamingos, make this a premier birdwatching destination, while traditional fishing and rice cultivation continue centuries-old practices.
The delta’s flat landscape and endless sky create a sense of infinite space rarely found in crowded Spain
4. Hidden gems in Spain: Tabernas, Andalusia
- What Makes It Special: Europe’s only desert with Wild West film sets
- Crowd Level: Day-trippers and Western movie fans
- Best For: Unique landscapes and film history enthusiast
Europe’s only true desert provided the backdrop for countless spaghetti westerns, including many Clint Eastwood films. The lunar landscape, complete with film sets and ghost towns, creates a uniquely European Wild West experience. You can also experiment thematic parks on this theme.
The desert’s harsh beauty and film history make it unlike anywhere else in Spain.
5. Hidden gems in Spain: Cadaqués, Catalonia
- What Makes It Special: Salvador Dalí’s coastal village and artistic inspiration
- Crowd Level: Art lovers and sophisticated travelers
- Best For: Art enthusiasts and Mediterranean charm seekers
This pristine Mediterranean fishing village inspired Salvador Dalí throughout his career. His house-museum at nearby Port Lligat reveals intimate details of the artist’s life, while the village itself maintains the timeless beauty that attracted him.
White-washed houses, crystal-clear waters, and artistic heritage create a sophisticated coastal retreat.
Even though only Cadaques made it for this top, the whole Costa Brava has plenty of interesting destinations to offer. You can read more about this in my article about the best places in Costa Brava.
Best destinations in Spain: Best Places in Spain for Nightlife
1. Best Places in Spain for nightlife: Ibiza
- Nightlife Type: World-class superclubs and beach parties
- Peak Hours: Midnight to 8 AM, peak season June-September
- Neighborhood: San Antonio for sunset bars, Ibiza Town for clubs
Ibiza reigns as the world’s undisputed party capital. Legendary venues like Pacha, Amnesia, and Ushuaïa host world-renowned DJs throughout the summer season. The island’s unique combination of beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and unparalleled club culture creates an unmatched party atmosphere.
Beyond the superclubs, beach bars, boat parties, and after-hours venues ensure the party never stops during peak season.
2. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Lloret de Mar, Catalonia
- Nightlife Type: Budget-friendly party destination and beach clubs
- Peak Hours: 10 PM to 4 AM, busy April-October
- Neighborhood: Central beach area and Carrer Sant Pere
Lloret de Mar offers accessible partying for younger crowds and budget travelers. The central beach area transforms into party central each evening, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach venues catering to international visitors.
While less sophisticated than other destinations, Lloret provides energetic nightlife at affordable prices along the beautiful Costa Brava.
3. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Barcelona, Catalonia
- Nightlife Type: Sophisticated clubs, rooftop bars, and cultural nightlife
- Peak Hours: Midnight to 6 AM, year-round scene
- Neighborhood: El Born, Gràcia, Barceloneta for beach clubs
Barcelona combines world-class clubbing with cultural sophistication. From underground venues in El Born to beachfront clubs in Barceloneta, the city offers diverse nightlife experiences. Late-night tapas culture, rooftop bars with city views, and historic venues in the Gothic Quarter create a uniquely Barcelona night scene.
The city’s cultural calendar ensures year-round nightlife beyond the typical party season. More than these, almost each neighbourhood in Barcelona, organizes its own “fiestas”. A 3-4 days long party, with music, drinks, costumes, fireworks and carnival-like floats.
4. Best places in Spain for nightlife: Playa de las Américas, Tenerife
- Nightlife Type: Year-round party destination with international atmosphere
- Peak Hours: 11 PM to 5 AM, peak winter months
- Neighborhood: Veronica’s Strip and surrounding resort areas
Tenerife’s party capital offers year-round clubbing in perpetual sunshine. The famous Veronicas Strip concentrates dozens of bars and clubs in a compact area, while surrounding resorts provide additional venues.
The winter season attracts European partygoers escaping cold weather, creating a unique warm-weather party destination.
5. Best places in Spain for nightlife: San Sebastián, Basque Country
- Nightlife Type: Sophisticated pintxos crawls and upscale nightlife
- Peak Hours: 9 PM for pintxos, midnight for bars/clubs
- Neighborhood: Parte Vieja (Old Town) for pintxos, Gros for modern venue
San Sebastián elevates nightlife to an art form through its legendary pintxos culture. The Parte Vieja (Old Town) offers sophisticated bar-hopping experiences where world-class cuisine meets social drinking.
Beyond pintxos bars, the city provides upscale clubs and venues that attract a sophisticated crowd seeking refined nighttime entertainment.
Planning Your Spanish Adventure
Each of these 20 destinations offers unique experiences that showcase Spain’s incredible diversity. From mountain tranquility to desert adventures, from royal palaces to party beaches, Spain provides authentic experiences for every type of traveler.
Consider combining destinations from different categories to create a well-rounded Spanish adventure that includes cultural immersion, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife. The country’s excellent transportation network makes multi-destination trips practical and rewarding.
Spain rewards travelers who venture beyond the obvious choices with authentic experiences, warm hospitality, and memories that last a lifetime.
Conclusion
The beauty of choosing among the best destinations in Spain lies in having options that perfectly match your travel personality and current mood. If you crave peace and authentic mountain culture, these quiet places in Spain like Siurana’s cliff-top tranquility or Trevélez’s high-altitude serenity offer profound quiet away from tourist crowds. For those energized by vibrant social scenes, the best places in Spain for nightlife – from Ibiza’s legendary superclubs to Barcelona’s sophisticated bar scene – provide endless excitement and cultural immersion.
History enthusiasts can explore the historical places to visit in Spain through Granada’s Moorish palaces, Madrid’s imperial grandeur, or Girona’s perfectly preserved medieval streets. Meanwhile, adventure seekers drawn to unique experiences will discover Spain’s hidden gems in Spain – from the mysterious Güímar Pyramids to Europe’s only desert in Tabernas – offering discoveries that most visitors never encounter.
When deciding where to go in Spain, you might start your morning exploring Roman walls in Zaragoza, spend your afternoon hiking through the Pyrenees near Torla-Ordesa, and end your evening sampling world-class pintxos in San Sebastián’s sophisticated bars. Or you could choose the opposite approach – dedicating your entire trip to mountain solitude in places like La Seu d’Urgell or North Tenerife’s authentic villages.
The accompanying infographic reveals the tourist density of each destination, helping you choose based on whether you thrive in popular, well-serviced locations or prefer more secluded, authentic experiences. Some travelers seek the energy of crowds and established infrastructure, while others find their perfect Spain in villages with fewer than 30 residents.
Whatever draws you to Spain – whether it’s the call of ancient history, the promise of mountain peace, the allure of undiscovered places, or the pulse of legendary nightlife – these twenty destinations ensure your Spanish adventure matches exactly what your travel soul is seeking.
Have you visited any of these incredible Spanish destinations? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your travel stories, photos, and hidden discoveries with us on Instagram, or reach out with questions about planning your perfect Spanish getaway. And do not hesitate to read more of my articles for inspiration, or reach out for help.