Spain is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, historic cities, and world-class cuisine. But tucked between its bustling capitals and tourist hotspots are vibrant towns bursting with color and character, each offering a different slice of Spanish life. From rainbow-painted houses to vividly tiled streets, these places feel like walking through an artist’s dream. They’re the kind of destinations that make you stop, stare, and reach for your camera at every corner.
Unlike the typical tourist landmarks, these colorful towns are often hidden gems waiting to be discovered. They showcase a rich mix of cultural heritage, regional traditions, and local pride — expressed boldly through color. Whether it’s the blue-washed walls of Andalusia or the multicolored facades of northern fishing villages, these towns turn ordinary streets into living postcards.
In this post, we’ll take you on a tour of ten of Spain’s most colorful towns — places where history, art, and everyday life collide in the most vibrant ways. Whether you’re planning your next Spanish getaway or simply dreaming of a future trip, these spots deserve a place on your travel radar.
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Quick & Easy Tips for Visiting Spain’s Colorful Towns
Visit Early in the Morning — Beat the crowds and capture the best photos with soft morning light.
Respect Local Homes and Spaces — Many colorful buildings are private residences, so enjoy them from a respectful distance.
Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes — These towns are best explored on foot, with many narrow streets and cobblestone alleys.
Check for Local Festivals — Visiting during a town’s fiesta can offer an even more colorful and festive atmosphere.
Pair Visits with Nearby Attractions — Many of these towns are close to other noteworthy sites, making for a perfect day trip combo.
One common misconception is that Spain’s colorful towns are mainly tourist traps with little authenticity. In fact, many of these places are still home to tight-knit communities who maintain their traditions and cultural practices, offering visitors a genuine experience beyond surface-level beauty.
Another debated belief is that the most colorful towns are only found in southern Spain. While Andalusia is famous for its vibrant villages, many stunningly colorful towns exist in northern regions like Galicia or the Basque Country, each with its distinct style and story.
Perhaps most surprising is the assumption that these towns owe their color purely to tourist appeal. In reality, many have deep historical or cultural reasons behind their vivid facades — from practical purposes like weather protection to religious significance and maritime tradition.
Most Colorful Towns in Spain
1. Ronda, Andalusia
Why It’s Colorful: Perched dramatically atop a deep gorge, Ronda is known for its whitewashed buildings set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and lush valleys. The town is famous for its breathtaking views and colorful accents throughout the streets, with blooming flowers adorning many homes and balconies.
What to Do:
Walk across the iconic Puente Nuevo, a bridge spanning the gorge with views of the countryside.
Explore the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain.
Visit the Palacio de Mondragón, a beautiful Moorish palace with stunning gardens.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and vibrant blooming flowers.
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2. Cadaqués, Catalonia
Why It’s Colorful: Nestled on the rugged Costa Brava, Cadaqués is known for its whitewashed buildings with colorful shutters, doors, and tile roofs. This charming fishing village, once home to Salvador Dalí, is surrounded by clear blue waters and green hills, creating a vibrant contrast.
What to Do:
Visit the Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí, the artist’s former residence.
Walk along the scenic seaside promenade lined with boats and cafes.
Explore nearby Cap de Creus National Park, where stunning landscapes and hiking trails await.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for beach weather and lively local events.
3. Villajoyosa, Costa Blanca
Why It’s Colorful: Villajoyosa, often called “La Vila,” is a seaside gem on the Costa Blanca known for its brightly painted houses along the waterfront. The rainbow of colors on the homes was originally painted by fishermen to make it easier to spot their houses from the sea.
What to Do:
Stroll through the vibrant waterfront promenade, perfect for photos and people-watching.
Visit the Valor Chocolate Museum to learn about the town’s famous chocolate-making tradition.
Relax on the beautiful Villajoyosa beach and enjoy the colorful backdrop of houses.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) for beach activities and festivals.
4. Juzcar, Andalusia
Why It’s Colorful: Once a typical whitewashed Andalusian village, Juzcar became known as the “Smurf Village” after it was painted entirely blue in 2011 for the promotion of the Smurfs movie. Although the town decided to keep its blue hue after the promotion, it has since become a quirky and colorful destination.
What to Do:
Wander through the quirky blue streets and enjoy the whimsical Smurf-themed decorations.
Hike the nearby Genal Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty.
Explore Smurf-themed shops and cafes for a fun and unique experience.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant hiking weather and fewer tourists.
5. Cudillero, Asturias
Why It’s Colorful: Cudillero is a charming fishing village in northern Spain, known for its colorful houses that seem to cascade down the hills towards the harbor. The vibrant reds, blues, and yellows of the homes contrast beautifully with the deep blue sea and the green hills surrounding the town.
What to Do:
Walk around the harbor and admire the colorful boats and houses.
Hike to the Mirador de la Garita for a panoramic view of the town and coastline.
Try fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants along the waterfront.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for warm weather and outdoor activities.
6. Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalusia
Why It’s Colorful: Setenil de las Bodegas is one of the most unique towns in Spain, famous for its whitewashed houses built into and under massive rock overhangs. The interplay between the stark white walls and the natural rock formations gives this town a distinct and colorful character.
What to Do:
Stroll through the narrow streets and experience the homes built into the cliffs.
Visit the Castle of Setenil, an ancient fortress with panoramic views of the town.
Explore the cuevas (caves), where many local shops, restaurants, and bars are located.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.
7. Zaragoza, Aragon
Why It’s Colorful: While Zaragoza is more of a city than a small town, its El Tubo neighborhood is full of vibrant street art, colorful buildings, and lively tapas bars. The streets are filled with murals and graffiti that add a dynamic, colorful touch to this historic city.
What to Do:
Visit the stunning Basilica del Pilar, an iconic cathedral with colorful domes.
Explore the Aljafería Palace, a beautiful Moorish fortress with colorful interiors.
Wander through El Tubo for street art, lively bars, and delicious tapas.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and local festivals.
8. Combarro, Galicia
Why It’s Colorful: Combarro is a small coastal town in Galicia, known for its colorful stone granaries (horreos) and houses perched along the waterfront. The town’s mix of stone architecture and colorful accents creates a charming and vibrant atmosphere.
What to Do:
Stroll along the harbor and admire the traditional horreos and their unique designs.
Sample Galician seafood at a local restaurant, known for its fresh shellfish.
Visit nearby Pontevedra, a historic town with more colorful streets and architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for beach activities and mild weather.
9. Frigiliana, Andalusia
Why It’s Colorful: Frigiliana is one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia, but what makes it stand out are the colorful doorways, tiled steps, and painted pots that adorn the streets. This Moorish-influenced town is set against stunning mountainous landscapes, making it a picturesque and vibrant destination.
What to Do:
Wander the narrow streets of the Old Town and admire the colorful doors, ceramic tiles, and flowerpots.
Visit the Palacio de los Condes and learn about the town’s Moorish history.
Take a short hike to enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Sierra de Almijara.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) for blooming flowers and mild temperatures.
10. Llanes, Asturias
Why It’s Colorful: Llanes is a coastal town in Asturias known for its colorful waterfront, including the famous Cubos de la Memoria—a series of concrete cubes along the pier painted with vibrant designs. The colorful homes and green landscapes add to the charm of this northern Spanish town.
What to Do:
Visit the Cubos de la Memoria, a public art installation designed by artist Agustín Ibarrola.
Explore the historic Old Town and its medieval architecture.
Relax on the beautiful beaches such as Playa de Toro and Playa de Torimbia.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for beach weather and coastal hikes.
Final Thoughts
Spain’s colorful towns offer more than just picturesque streets and Instagram-worthy backdrops. They reflect centuries of tradition, artistic expression, and community spirit — making them destinations worth visiting not just for their beauty, but for the stories they tell. They’re living art galleries, where every building and plaza holds a piece of local history.
Exploring these vibrant towns means stepping off the typical tourist path and discovering a side of Spain that’s both authentic and unforgettable. Whether you wander their colorful alleys or sit in a local café soaking up the atmosphere, you’ll find that each town has its unique charm waiting to be uncovered.
So, before you plan your next trip to Spain, consider adding these ten colorful towns to your itinerary. They might not be on every guidebook’s front page — but they’re exactly the kind of places you’ll never forget.
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.