Spain knocked my socks off, and not just because of Barcelona’s crazy architecture or Madrid’s world-class museums. After road-tripping across the country multiple times, I’ve fallen for places most visitors never see.
Trust me, the best places in Spain are hiding in plain sight. I still dream about getting lost in Frigiliana’s impossibly charming streets and waking up to mountain views from my little rental near Ronda. The locals I met were right—you haven’t really experienced Spain until you’ve shared tapas in a tiny village square where no one speaks English and everyone wants to chat anyway. Ready to discover Spain beyond the tourist traps? These 12 spots will give you stories worth bragging about—guaranteed.
Top Must-See Destinations in Spain
Looking to uncover Spain’s hidden gems? Beyond the popular attractions, the country offers plenty of lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. Wander through the Ribeira Sacra, known for its stunning vineyards and landscapes. Marvel at the Cíes Islands, a pristine natural paradise.
Stroll the historic streets of Cuenca, a charming town with hanging houses. Whether you’re into nature, history, or unique experiences, here are 12 of Spain’s most underrated destinations!
1. Albarracín, Aragon
Ever wondered what it feels like to wander through a town where time stopped in the Middle Ages but the wine didn’t? Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop in eastern Spain, Albarracín captivates with its rust-colored buildings cascading down hillsides against surrounding pine forests.
Wandering through narrow streets reveals architectural treasures at every turn. Don’t miss Plaza Mayor with its charming town hall or the impressive Albarracín Cathedral dating to the 16th century. For panoramic vistas, climb to the Andador Tower along the ancient walls.
I found the town most magical at sunset when amber buildings seem to glow from within. For authentic local cuisine, El Molino del Gato serves exceptional regional dishes like migas aragonesas.
Adventure seekers will appreciate the surrounding limestone cliffs, now an international rock climbing destination with routes for various skill levels.
2. Cudillero, Asturias
Want to discover what happens when fishing villages defy gravity and embrace color therapy? This vibrant harbor town on Spain’s northern coast might be the most photogenic fishing village you’ve never heard of. Cudillero’s houses appear stacked vertically, creating an amphitheater tumbling down to its working harbor.
Located about 40 minutes west of Asturias’ capital, Oviedo, this seaside gem offers escape from touristy coastal areas. The labyrinth of steep staircases invites exploration, revealing postcard-worthy views.
For the best perspective, climb to La Garita viewpoint. Experience the town’s seafaring heritage at El Remo or La Cueva, where fishermen’s catches become extraordinary seafood dishes. Cudillero’s authenticity shines as fishermen mend nets by day before gathering at Bar Sídrería Mariñana for evening cider.
3. Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalusia
Ready to have drinks in a bar where the ceiling is literally a 15-ton boulder? Most towns are built on hills—this one is built under them. Located in southern Spain’s Cádiz province, Setenil de las Bodegas features houses that emerge directly from the rock.
The Rio Trejo carved out this dramatic gorge where residents expanded natural cave formations into dwellings. Walking along Calle Cuevas del Sol and Calle Cuevas de la Sombra feels surreal as massive rock overhangs form natural roofs above streets.
This geological wonder sits just 18 km from Ronda. Nazarí Castle stands as a reminder of the town’s strategic importance during Moorish rule.
For a memorable meal, Bar Frasquito serves traditional Andalusian cuisine while you dine inside the mountain.
4. Ronda, Andalusia
Imagine sipping local wine on a terrace suspended 390 feet above a rocky gorge as golden hour approaches. Dramatically split by the 100-meter-deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda captivates with its impossible setting atop towering cliffs in Spain’s Málaga province.
The iconic Puente Nuevo spans the chasm, connecting the old Moorish quarter with the newer town. It took 42 years to build and offers vertigo-inducing views that inspired Hemingway and Orwell.
Beyond the bridge, explore Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring, and the elegant Mondragón Palace. For an unforgettable perspective, hike the Camino de los Molinos trail.
The town sits about 100 km west of Málaga. Sample local vintages at Bodega García Hidalgo before watching sunset paint the gorge.
5. Zahara de la Sierra, Andalusia
Ever dreamt of swimming in turquoise waters beneath a village that seems to defy gravity? Rising from a hillside overlooking Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir, this white village epitomizes Andalusia’s charm. Its blindingly white buildings crowned by a 13th-century Moorish castle create a striking silhouette.
Located within Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park (30 minutes from Ronda), Zahara offers panoramic views across olive groves and mountains. The climb to Zahara Castle rewards with vistas stretching to the Mediterranean on clear days.
In spring, the countryside explodes with wildflowers while griffon vultures soar overhead. Cool off at Playa de Arroyomolinos, a freshwater beach along the reservoir. Discover the village’s frontier history at the Church of Santa María de la Mesa before dining at Al Lago restaurant.
6. Luarca, Asturias
What if Spain’s most beautiful beaches came with misty mountains, seafood feasts, and half the tourists? This elegant seaside town curves around a natural harbor on Spain’s verdant north coast. About an hour west of Avilés, Luarca combines maritime charm with aristocratic heritage.
Known as the “White Town of the Green Coast,” its pristine buildings frame a working harbor. The town cascades down green hills to meet the sea, with the scenic Cemetery of Luarca perched dramatically on a cliff above waves.
Crossing the town’s seven bridges reveals different personalities, from fishermen’s quarters to stately mansions built by returnees who made fortunes abroad.
For spectacular coastal views, follow the path to La Atalaya lighthouse. When hungry, Casa Tataguyo serves fabada asturiana stew and fresh seafood.
7. Aínsa, Aragon
Craving medieval magic without the Barcelona crowds? Medieval perfection awaits in this remarkably preserved town in the Spanish Pyrenees. Aínsa’s immaculate cobblestone Plaza Mayor ranks among Spain’s most atmospheric squares, surrounded by stone arcades and noble houses.
Located in Huesca province near the French border, Aínsa serves as an ideal gateway to Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, just 30 minutes northeast. The town sits at the confluence of the Cinca and Ara rivers.
The 11th-century Castle of Aínsa now houses an eco-museum highlighting the region’s biodiversity. Take time to walk the ancient walls for sweeping mountain panoramas.
What surprised me most was the town’s culinary sophistication. Callizo Restaurant offers innovative takes on Aragonese classics using foraged ingredients and local meats.
8. Frigiliana, Andalusia
Want to know where locals escape when the Costa del Sol gets too touristy? Just 7 km inland from the Mediterranean coast, this blindingly white village feels worlds away from nearby beach resorts. Frigiliana cascades down a hillside in the Axarquía region east of Málaga.
The immaculately preserved Moorish quarter of El Barribarto features whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowerpots. Decorative mosaic panels along Calle Real tell the story of the village’s Moorish past.
Nearby El Fuerte Hill marks the site of the final battle between Christians and Moriscos in 1569. Today, it offers spectacular hiking trails through subtropical vegetation.
The village maintains strong artisanal traditions at Galería Nuño and El Abuelo. For dinner with a view, El Mirador restaurant delivers panoramic vistas with innovative Andalusian cuisine.
9. Llastres, Asturias
Imagine a coastal village where fishermen still outnumber tourists and the day’s catch becomes tonight’s dinner. Tumbling down a steep hillside to meet the Cantabrian Sea, this fishing village captures northern Spain’s timeless maritime charm. Located about 30 minutes east of Gijón, its staggered layout ensures gorgeous ocean views.
The village’s three distinct levels tell its evolutionary story: the harbor, the middle town with its charming San José Church, and the upper area anchored by the Clock Tower.
Photography enthusiasts will love the early morning light when fishing boats return with their catches. Spanish television fans might recognize Llastres as the filming location for “Doctor Mateo.”
For phenomenal seafood, El Descenso serves today’s catch with views to match. Follow the coastal path to Cape Lastres Lighthouse for dramatic cliff scenery.
10. Alquézar, Aragon
Ready to walk on steel platforms anchored to canyon walls while vultures soar overhead? Built around a fortress-turned-collegiate church, this honey-colored town perches above the Vero River canyon in Huesca province. Alquézar sits at the eastern edge of Sierra de Guara Natural Park, about 50 km east of Huesca city.
The imposing Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor dominates the skyline. Inside, 15th-century cloister murals provide fascinating insights into medieval life.
Adventure seekers flock to the Pasarelas del Vero, a stunning walkway system that allows intimate exploration of the limestone gorge below town.
The area contains Europe’s richest concentration of prehistoric rock art, with Cueva de Picamartillo showcasing ancient paintings dating back 22,000 years. After exploring, unwind at Casa Pardina with regional specialties and Somontano wines.
11. Capileira, Andalusia
What if you could discover a village higher than Denver, with architecture straight from Morocco and hiking trails that rival the Alps? Perched at 1,436 meters in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Capileira ranks among Spain’s highest villages. This traditional settlement sits about 70 km southeast of Granada.
The village features distinctive flat-roofed houses with prominent chimneys and covered walkways; designs evolved for harsh mountain winters. Wandering through steep streets reveals delightful corners where time seems suspended.
For spectacular hiking, the village serves as a gateway to Mulhacén, mainland Spain’s highest peak. The Poqueira Gorge trail connects Capileira with neighboring white villages. Visit the Pedro Antonio de Alarcón Museum before sampling mountain cuisine at Restaurante La Tapa. Their hearty plato alpujarreño makes the perfect reward after a day of hiking.
12. Santillana del Mar, Cantabria
Wanted to sleep in a genuine medieval town where cobblestone streets lead to 22,000-year-old cave art? Despite the name suggesting a seaside location, this medieval jewel actually sits about 4 km from the Cantabrian coast. Often called “the town of three lies” (neither holy, flat, nor by the sea), Santillana del Mar compensates with extraordinary historical integrity.
Just 30 km west of Santander, the town centers around the magnificent Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana with its Romanesque cloister. Cobblestone streets lined with aristocratic houses create an atmospheric journey through Spanish history.
Beyond the town lies the world-famous Altamira Cave. Though the original is closed for conservation, the museum and replica provide a compelling experience. For traditional Cantabrian cuisine, El Pasaje serves hearty cocido montañés and sobaos pasiegos.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Hidden Gems in Spain
Are you searching for more content about where to go in Spain? Here are some common questions (and answers) I often receive about the most underrated places in Spain.
Where to go in Spain to avoid tourists?
To avoid tourists in Spain, consider visiting hidden gems like Alquézar in Aragon, known for its stunning canyon views and medieval architecture, or Luarca in Asturias, a serene coastal town with a charming harbor. These lesser-known destinations offer a peaceful experience away from crowded tourist spots.
What are some of the best hidden gems in Spain for nature lovers?
Nature enthusiasts should explore Capileira in Andalusia, situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains, perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking landscapes. Another great option is Santillana del Mar in Cantabria, close to the Altamira Cave, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Are there any underrated destinations in Spain that are also family-friendly?
Yes, Frigiliana in Andalusia is a family-friendly underrated destination. Its safe, pedestrian-friendly streets and the engaging history make it ideal for families. Additionally, Zahara de la Sierra offers outdoor activities like hiking, suitable for families looking for adventure.
How safe are the off-the-beaten-path locations in Spain?
The off-the-beaten-path locations in Spain, such as Llastres and Aínsa, are generally very safe. These small towns have low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. However, as with any travel, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings.
What are the typical costs for visiting hidden vacation spots in Spain?
Visiting hidden vacation spots in Spain like Luarca or Alquézar can be quite cost-effective. These areas typically have lower accommodation and dining costs compared to major tourist cities. Entrance fees, if any, for local attractions are usually minimal.
Can I easily access these hidden gems in Spain using public transport?
While some hidden gems like Frigiliana can be accessed via public transport, others like Capileira might require a car rental due to their remote locations. It’s best to plan ahead and check available transportation options for each destination.
What is the best time of year to visit Spain’s less-known destinations?
The best time to visit Spain’s less-known destinations varies. For instance, Zahara de la Sierra is best to visit in spring or early summer for ideal weather in Spain. On the other hand, Santillana del Mar is great to visit throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm.
Final Thoughts on Spain’s Hidden Gems
If you’re planning a trip to Spain and looking to steer clear of the usual tourist-packed places, these hidden gems are definitely worth your time. Spots like Luarca and Aínsa offer more than just stunning views; they give you a taste of Spain that’s hard to find in the more crowded areas. Imagine chilling in a peaceful mountain village like Capileira, or taking a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Santillana del Mar. Each of these places has its own unique charm and story to tell.
These destinations are perfect for travelers who really want to get under the skin of Spain, to see what makes it tick beyond the usual tourist traps. So, when you’re plotting out your Spanish journey, consider making a detour to these lesser-known spots. They’re not just dots on a map; they’re the kind of places that leave a lasting impression, the ones you’ll be telling stories about long after you’re back home.
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