Spain’s most famous cities—Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Granada—attract millions of tourists each year. But these hotspots are often crowded, overpriced, and tourist-centric, leaving little room to experience the authentic charm of Spain.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover hidden gems, this guide will take you to lesser-known Spanish destinations that still offer incredible history, culture, and natural beauty.
Spain’s hidden gems offer just as much beauty, culture, and history as its famous cities—but with fewer crowds, better prices, and a more authentic local experience. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, medieval towns, or unique architecture, these untouched destinations should be at the top of your travel list.
By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll uncover Spain’s true charm and create a travel experience that’s uniquely your own. Which of these untouched destinations would you visit first?
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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Untouched Spanish Destinations to Visit
1. Instead of Barcelona: Visit Girona
Why Girona?
Girona offers the same Catalan charm as Barcelona but without the overwhelming crowds.
Stroll along the colorful houses lining the Onyar River or explore the medieval Old Town and its preserved city walls.
A paradise for Game of Thrones fans, as it served as a filming location for the series.
Enjoy authentic Catalan cuisine in family-run restaurants at a fraction of Barcelona’s prices.
Highlights:
Girona Cathedral
Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
The Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Day trips to Costa Brava beaches
2. Instead of Madrid: Visit Salamanca
Why Salamanca?
Known as the “Golden City,” Salamanca is home to stunning sandstone architecture and one of the oldest universities in Europe.
Its student vibe gives the city a lively, youthful energy, perfect for café culture and evening strolls.
Smaller, quieter, and more walkable than Madrid, Salamanca is steeped in Spanish history and charm.
Highlights:
Plaza Mayor (one of Spain’s most beautiful squares)
Universidad de Salamanca (founded in 1218)
Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells)
3. Instead of Seville: Visit Cádiz
Why Cádiz?
Known as Europe’s oldest city, Cádiz boasts ancient charm and coastal beauty.
Its beaches and laid-back vibe make it the perfect alternative to Seville’s bustling city life.
Cádiz offers authentic Andalusian culture, with fewer tourists and some of the best seafood in Spain.
Highlights:
La Caleta Beach
Cádiz Cathedral
Tavira Tower (for panoramic views)
Carnival of Cádiz (Spain’s most famous carnival)
4. Instead of Granada: Visit Úbeda and Baeza
Why Úbeda and Baeza?
These two UNESCO-listed towns are hidden gems of Andalusia, offering stunning Renaissance architecture without the crowds.
Úbeda is known for its olive oil tourism and peaceful ambiance, while Baeza is a perfectly preserved medieval town.
Both are close to Jaén, home to Spain’s largest olive oil production.
Highlights:
Sacred Chapel of the Savior (Úbeda)
Baeza Cathedral
Olive oil tasting tours in nearby villages
5. Instead of San Sebastián: Visit Gijón
Why Gijón?
Located in Asturias, Gijón combines coastal beauty with authentic Spanish traditions.
It offers beaches, cider culture, and lush green landscapes, making it a peaceful alternative to San Sebastián’s more upscale vibe.
Gijón’s local cider houses (sidrerías) are a must for food and drink lovers.
Highlights:
Playa de San Lorenzo
Cimavilla (historic old town)
Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura
6. Instead of Valencia: Visit Cuenca
Why Cuenca?
Famous for its “hanging houses” (casas colgadas) built into the cliffs, Cuenca is one of Spain’s most picturesque towns.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca combines medieval charm and incredible natural scenery.
Fewer tourists than Valencia make it a quiet retreat for history and architecture lovers.
Highlights:
Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses)
Cuenca Cathedral
Ventano del Diablo (Devil’s Window viewpoint)
7. Instead of Ibiza: Visit Menorca
Why Menorca?
While Ibiza is known for its nightlife, Menorca offers a more laid-back island experience with secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters.
It’s perfect for travelers seeking peace, nature, and fewer crowds.
The island is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it ideal for eco-tourism.
Highlights:
Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta beaches
Binibeca Vell (charming whitewashed village)
Naveta d’Es Tudons (prehistoric monument)
8. Instead of Málaga: Visit Ronda
Why Ronda?
Perched on a dramatic gorge, Ronda offers some of the most breathtaking views in Spain.
It’s a smaller, quieter alternative to Málaga, with plenty of historical charm.
Ideal for day trips or a peaceful overnight stay.
Highlights:
Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) spanning the gorge
Ronda’s bullring (one of the oldest in Spain)
Stunning countryside for hiking and wine tours
9. Instead of Bilbao: Visit Vitoria-Gasteiz
Why Vitoria-Gasteiz?
As the capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz offers traditional Basque culture and cuisine without the crowds of Bilbao.
Its well-preserved medieval old town is a hidden gem.
Known as one of Spain’s greenest cities, it’s perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
Highlights:
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca
The medieval Cathedral of Santa María
Green Belt (a network of parks surrounding the city)
10. Instead of Costa del Sol: Visit Cabo de Gata
Why Cabo de Gata?
Located in Almería, this nature reserve offers untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear waters.
It’s the perfect spot for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring traditional fishing villages.
Cabo de Gata feels wild and remote, unlike the overdeveloped Costa del Sol.
Highlights:
Playa de los Muertos (beach)
San José village
Arrecife de las Sirenas (reef and lighthouse)
11. Instead of the Canary Islands: Visit La Palma
Why La Palma?
Known as the “Isla Bonita,” La Palma offers volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and stargazing opportunities.
Unlike Tenerife or Gran Canaria, La Palma remains peaceful and unspoiled.
Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, as it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Highlights:
Caldera de Taburiente National Park
Roque de los Muchachos Observatory
Los Tilos Forest
12. Instead of Zaragoza: Visit Teruel
Why Teruel?
Teruel is a hidden gem of Aragón, known for its Mudejar architecture, which blends Islamic and Gothic styles.
It’s smaller and more peaceful than Zaragoza, with a rich history and authentic local culture.
Highlights:
Teruel Cathedral
The Lovers of Teruel Mausoleum
Albarracín (a nearby medieval village that feels frozen in time)
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.