Spain is home to some of the most charming small towns, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re looking for medieval streets, coastal escapes, or mountain retreats, these enchanting towns provide an authentic Spanish experience away from the tourist crowds.
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway away from the crowds, these small towns are perfect destinations to experience Spain’s true charm. Here are the top small towns to visit in Spain, their highlights, and what to do in each.
Read here best things to know before visiting Spain, Planning an Itinerary in Spain: 3 Days Madrid Itinerary and 4 Days Barcelona Itinerary
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Most Enchanting Small Towns in Spain
1. Ronda (Andalusia)
Why Visit:
Famous for its dramatic cliffside location and historic bridges
Rich Moorish and Roman history
Highlights:
Puente Nuevo: Iconic stone bridge over the El Tajo Gorge
Plaza de Toros: One of Spain’s oldest bullrings
Arab Baths: Well-preserved 13th-century Moorish baths
What to Do:
Walk along the Balcony of the Coño for breathtaking views
Explore the whitewashed old town (La Ciudad)
Visit Bodegas La Sangre de Ronda for local wine tasting
2. Cadaqués (Catalonia)
Why Visit:
One of the most picturesque coastal villages in Spain
Famous as the inspiration for Salvador Dalí
Highlights:
Salvador Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat
Cap de Creus Natural Park with rugged landscapes
Whitewashed houses and charming alleys
What to Do:
Stroll through the old town and harbor
Visit Casa-Museo Dalí and explore his surreal world
Take a boat tour along the Costa Brava
3. Albarracín (Aragon)
Why Visit:
One of Spain’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns
Surrounded by pink-hued walls and dramatic landscapes
Highlights:
Moorish walls and towers
Cathedral of Albarracín
Calle Portal de Molina, a street with stunning medieval architecture
What to Do:
Hike up to the castle ruins for panoramic views
Wander through the labyrinth-like old town
Explore the pictorial caves of Albarracín Cultural Park
4. Cudillero (Asturias)
Why Visit:
A charming fishing village with colorful cliffside houses
Stunning coastal views and fresh seafood
Highlights:
Mirador de la Garita-Atalaya for panoramic views
Santa María Church from the 16th century
Picturesque port and harbor
What to Do:
Walk up to the viewpoints (miradores) for the best town views
Enjoy fresh seafood at a harbor-front restaurant
Visit Playa del Silencio, a hidden beach nearby
5. Besalú (Catalonia)
Why Visit:
A well-preserved medieval town with an iconic bridge
Rich Jewish and Catalan history
Highlights:
12th-century Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià River
Jewish Quarter and ancient mikveh
Monastery of Sant Pere
What to Do:
Cross the Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) for the best photos
Explore the Jewish heritage sites
Try local Catalan cuisine at a traditional restaurant
6. Frigiliana (Andalusia)
Why Visit:
One of the most beautiful “Pueblos Blancos” (White Villages)
Narrow cobbled streets filled with flowers and artisan shops
Highlights:
Old Moorish quarter (Barribarto)
Beautiful tile murals depicting the town’s history
Stunning views of the Mediterranean and mountains
What to Do:
Wander through the flower-filled alleyways
Visit the archeological museum in the old granary
Hike to the Sierras of Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Natural Park
7. Laguardia (La Rioja)
Why Visit:
A charming wine village in Spain’s most famous wine region
Surrounded by medieval walls and vineyards
Highlights:
Underground wine cellars beneath the town
Church of Santa María de los Reyes with Gothic carvings
Amazing views of the Rioja vineyards
What to Do:
Take a wine tour at Bodega Ysios or Bodegas Campillo
Walk the medieval walls for panoramic vineyard views
Try Rioja wine with traditional tapas
8. Setenil de las Bodegas (Andalusia)
Why Visit:
A unique white village built into the rocks
Great combination of history and natural beauty
Highlights:
Calle Cuevas del Sol, streets under giant rock formations
Nazari Castle, a fortress from the 12th century
Iglesia de la Encarnación, a 15th-century church
What to Do:
Walk under the rock-covered streets
Visit a cave restaurant or bar
Explore hiking trails in the nearby countryside
9. Hondarribia (Basque Country)
Why Visit:
A hidden gem near the French border with Basque charm
Colorful houses and fantastic seafood
Highlights:
Plaza de Armas, the heart of the old town
Castle of Emperor Charles V
La Marina district with brightly painted houses
What to Do:
Enjoy Basque pintxos (small tapas) in the old town
Walk along the beach and harbor promenade
Take a short ferry to Hendaye, France
10. Morella (Valencia)
Why Visit:
A hilltop town with a stunning medieval castle
Less touristy, offering an authentic Spanish experience
Highlights:
Morella Castle with incredible panoramic views
14th-century defensive walls surrounding the town
Convent of San Francisco, a historical monastery
What to Do:
Explore the cobblestone streets and hidden plazas
Visit the Truffle Museum for a taste of local cuisine
Hike in the Els Ports Natural Park nearby
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Visit?
Each of these enchanting Spanish towns offers a unique experience, whether it’s medieval history, coastal beauty, or world-class wine.
Best for History Lovers: Albarracín, Besalú, Morella
Best for Coastal Views: Cadaqués, Cudillero, Hondarribia
Best for Wine Enthusiasts: Laguardia, Ronda
Best for Unique Landscapes: Setenil de las Bodegas, Frigiliana
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.