While there’s a time and a place for Barcelona, I must admit – Barcelona might be one of my least favorite places in Spain. But, with that being said – there are so many incredible places in Spain! And I highly recommend visiting this beautiful, vast, lively country. Here are the best places to visit in Spain (in my opinion) – that aren’t Barcelona!
If you’re planning a trip to Spain, don’t miss…
- Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Trip to Spain
- The Ultimate Spain Packing List
- Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Car in Spain
1. Besalú
Besalú is a small medieval town in the Catalonia region of Spain that dates back to the 10th-century. It was of historical significance as the capital of an independent country – the County of Besalú during the early days of Catalonia. In the Middle Ages, Besalú grew into a thriving political and religious center, and its decline came in 12th-century.
Today you can walk its famous bridge, explore the historic town centre, and wander the cobblestone streets. If you’re able to visit, I recommend dining at Restaurant Cúria Reial.
2. Bilbao
If you’re looking for an alternative city break to Barcelona, Bilbao it is! Bilbao is the biggest city in Spain’s Basque region in the north of the country with a rich history rooted in trade. The city was founded in 1300 and became a vital port city due to its location along the Nervión River. Today, Bilbao is a city of contrasts – old and new. From its medieval Old Quarter – Casco Viejo – to the modern Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao is the perfect city alternative to Barcelona.
Learn more about Bilbao and the Basque Region here…
3. Costa Brava
Costa Brava refers to the stunning coastline along the Catalonia region in northeastern Spain. This region has everything from coastal walks, to scenic bike rides, beautiful beaches, and incredible food. It’s one of my favorite places in Spain and I highly recommend visiting!
Read more about Costa Brava…
- 10 Best Things to See & Do in Costa Brava, Spain
- 4 Days in Costa Brava: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary Through Spain’s Most Beautiful Coastline
4. Girona
Girona is located in Catalonia, in the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees area, at the northeast part of the region – less than an hour north of Barcelona. The city was founded by the Romans and has an obvious Roman influence. It’s also famous for appearing in Game of Thrones and for its cycling culture thanks to Lance Armstrong coming here to train.
If you plan to visit Girona and spend the night, I highly recommend staying at Hotel Palau Fugit.
5. Granada
Granada is one of my favorite places in Spain with a charming feel to it. The city is located in southern Spain, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the Andalusian region. Granada is known for its rich Moorish heritage, with the iconic Alhambra palace overlooking the city as its most famous landmark. Although the Christians regained control of Granada in 1492, the city retained much of its Moorish influence, evident at every turn. It’s truly one of the most beautiful and unique places in Spain!
Read more about Granada…
6. Mallorca
A shining star in the Mediterranean – Mallorca is one of those “bucket list” places that should be on everyone’s Spain travel list. It’s the seventh largest island in the Mediterranean and is simply oozing with charm. From the small villages, to the iconic green shutters, the hidden coves and crystal-clear waters, not to mention the delicious Spanish food – I highly encourage everyone to travel to Mallorca once in their lifetime!
Read more about Mallorca…
7. Rioja Wine Region
The Rioja wine region is located in northern Spain, primarily within the autonomous community of La Rioja, but it also stretches into parts of Navarra and the Basque Country. It sits along the Ebro River, with its vineyards benefiting from the diverse climates of the area, including Mediterranean, Atlantic, and continental influences. Known for producing some of Spain’s finest wines, particularly red wines made from Tempranillo grapes, Rioja truly flourished in the 19th century when local winemakers adopted techniques from Bordeaux, elevating the region’s reputation. Rioja is divided into three sub-regions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. If you’re a wine lover, you can’t miss the rolling vineyards and charming villages of Rioja!
By the way, when I visited, I based myself in Labastida.
8. San Sebastián
San Sebastián is a picturesque coastal city located in northern Spain’s Basque Country, along the Bay of Biscay, near the French border. San Sebastián is renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant food scene, with some of the best pintxos (Basque tapas) and Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. The city is set against lush green hills, combining stunning natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. In fact, the first time I arrived to San Sebastián I started to cry simply because of how beautiful it was!
If you’re planning to visit San Sebastián, don’t miss…
9. Seville
Seville is a city that pulses with life, where every corner seems to burst with energy, vibrant colors, and the warm smiles of friendly locals who welcome you with open arms. Located in the heart of Andalusia, Southern Spain, Seville carries a rich history as a city once under Moorish rule. The city is the birthplace of flamenco, and is also known for its deep connection and traditions to bullfighting. Though Seville is not the largest city in Spain, its bold spirit and cultural treasures make it a place that leaves an unforgettable impression.
Read more about Seville…
10. Vitoria-Gasteiz
It wasn’t until recently that I learned about Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of northern Spain’s Basque Country. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, with narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings like the Cathedral of Santa María. Despite being lesser-known than other Basque cities, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene and an impressive green belt of parks that surround the city.
Spanish Essentials – What You Need & Need to Know About Visiting Spain
TRAVELING THROUGH SPAIN
- The easiest way to book train tickets in Spain is through Omio
- The easiest way to book bus tickets in Spain is through Bookaway
- To book a flight to Spain, I recommend using a big search engine to compare options
- For car rentals in Spain, I recommend Discover Cars (you do need an international drivers license to drive in Spain)
- If you want an English speaking driver waiting to pick you up at the airport, use Welcome Pickups
- I highly recommend travel medical insurance when traveling through Spain – I use and recommend SafetyWing (to learn more about why I recommend travel medical insurance, read this post and this post)
- If you need a SIM card, aloSIM for an easy and affordable e-SIM – use code “KYLEE5” for 5% off
ACCOMODATION IN SPAIN
- To easiest way to book hotels in Spain is through a booking platform
TOURS IN SPAIN
- For tours and activities in Spain, I recommend using Get Your Guide or Viator
- For food tours in Spain, I recommend Devour Tours
- For walking tours in Spain, I recommend Take Walks
WHAT TO BRING TO SPAIN
- Don’t forget a Spain guide book to help plan your travels
- You’ll need a travel plug adapter (Spain uses type C)
- I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste
- My favorite luggage is Calpak
- My favorite travel backpack is Nordace
- I recommend a sleep mask for long flights
- I love traveling with ARMRA Colostrum travel sticks to support my immune system (use code “KYLEENELSON” for 15% off)
I hope that this post inspires you to consider places in Spain that aren’t Barcelona! If you have any questions about these places in Spain to visit, or suggestions for other places to visit, let me know in a comment below!
For more information on things to see and do in Spain, make sure to check out my Instagram page/highlight reel by searching “#ppinspain” or under my highlights for “Spain”; alternatively, head to my TikTok and search for the saved “Spain” highlight
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Founded by Kylee, a NICU nurse with nine years of experience, including seven years as a travel nurse; Passports and Preemies was created in 2017 and is now the go-to travel and lifestyle channel for nurses who crave adventure beyond the bedside. Whether you’re a staff nurse looking for your next getaway or a travel nurse navigating life on the road, this space is designed to help you maximize your time off, explore the world, and prevent nurse burnout.
On Passports and Preemies, you’ll find everything from travel nursing insights – how to get started, land the best assignments, and thrive on the road – to expert travel tips, destination guides, and real-talk about balancing nursing with a life well-traveled. Passports and Preemies also includes Beyond the Bedside – group trips for nurses around the world; as well as the podcast, Passports and Preemies Talks.
