Cities in Spain
Discover the vibrant cities throughout Spain, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions.
Ainsa
Historic fortified village near the Pyrenees
Albarracín
Medieval town perched on a mountainside with perfectly preserved architecture and red-hued buildings
Albarracín
Picturesque hilltop town with well-preserved Moorish influence
Alcala del Jucar
Dramatically perched on a limestone cliff above the Jucar River, this stunning white village seems to defy gravity with its houses built directly into the rock face. A perfect example of how Spanish settlements adapted to challenging terrain, Alcala del Jucar features narrow winding streets, a medieval castle, cave houses, and a Roman bridge, all creating one of Spain's most picturesque settings.
Alcalá de Henares
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcalá de Henares boasts one of Europe's oldest universities founded in 1499. The historic university city features beautiful plazas, a stunning main street with arcades, and impressive Renaissance architecture throughout its well-preserved medieval center.
Alcalá del Júcar
Dramatically perched on a rocky gorge above the Júcar River, this ancient town is famous for its cave houses carved directly into the limestone cliff. The town features a well-preserved medieval castle, a Roman bridge, and a uniquely shaped bullring. Its white houses cling to the hillside and many extend deep into the rock, maintaining a constant temperature year-round, making them cool in summer and warm in winter.
Almagro
Known for its remarkably preserved 16th-century Corral de Comedias (one of the oldest open-air theaters in Europe), Almagro is a charming small town that seems frozen in Spain's Golden Age. The Plaza Mayor, surrounded by green-framed balconies and elegant colonnades, is the perfect setting for the annual International Classical Theater Festival that celebrates Spain's rich theatrical heritage.
Alquézar
Medieval village perched on limestone cliffs above the Río Vero with an impressive collegiate church
Aranjuez
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a royal palace and historic gardens along the Tagus River
Barcelona
Capital of Catalonia, famous for Gaudí architecture and Mediterranean beaches.
Bilbao
Largest city in the Basque Country, known for the Guggenheim Museum.
Bunol
Small town in Valencia known for La Tomatina festival.
Burgos
A historic city that was once the capital of the unified kingdom of Castile and León and an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Founded in 884, Burgos is dominated by its magnificent Gothic cathedral and preserves a medieval old town with numerous historic buildings. The city has a rich cultural heritage as the birthplace of El Cid, the national hero of Spain, and sits along the banks of the Arlanzón River, offering beautiful riverside promenades.
Cadiz
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe with over 3,000 years of history, featuring beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant carnival celebrations.
Calella de Palafrugell
One of the Costa Brava's most enchanting coastal villages, Calella de Palafrugell has somehow managed to preserve its authentic fishing village charm despite its location on one of Spain's most popular coastlines. With whitewashed houses, narrow streets tumbling down to a series of perfect small coves, and traditional fishing boats pulled up on the sand, it offers a glimpse of Mediterranean life before mass tourism. The annual Habaneras singing festival in July is a unique cultural highlight.
Cambados
Known as the capital of Albariño wine, with a beautiful old town and seafaring tradition
Cangas de Onís
Historic town with a famous Roman bridge and gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park
Caravaca de la Cruz
Holy city known for its annual Wine Horses festival
Caravaca de la Cruz
One of the five holy cities of Catholic Christianity, known for its sanctuary and religious traditions
Cartagena
Ancient port city with over 3,000 years of history and impressive Roman ruins
Ceuta
Spanish autonomous city located on the north coast of Africa, sharing a border with Morocco. It features diverse cultural influences, historic fortifications, and Mediterranean views.
Chinchón
Medieval town known for its unique plaza mayor that transforms into a bullring, and its aniseed liqueur
Combarro
Traditional fishing village famous for its numerous hórreos (granaries) along the waterfront
Comillas
Elegant coastal town with Modernist architecture, including Gaudí's El Capricho villa
Comillas
Coastal town with Gaudí architecture and a stylish historic center
Cordoba
Historic city in Andalusia known for the Mezquita and its well-preserved old town.
Cudillero
Colorful fishing village built on a hillside with houses seemingly piled on top of each other
Cuenca
Medieval city perched dramatically on limestone cliffs above the Huécar and Júcar rivers. Famous for its hanging houses (Casas Colgadas) that cling to the cliff edges. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a perfectly preserved historical center featuring diverse architectural styles.
Dalt Vila
The fortified old town of Ibiza, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Phoenician and medieval heritage
El Rocio
A unique town that looks like something from the Wild West, with sandy streets where horses have right of way and hitching posts outside buildings instead of parking spaces. El Rocio is most famous for hosting the annual El Rocio Pilgrimage, Spain's largest religious procession, when a million devotees converge on this small hamlet to honor the Virgin of El Rocio. Located next to Doñana National Park, it's also a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Elche
Historic city in the Valencian Community known for its vast palm grove and traditional crafts
Estella
Historic waypoint on the Camino de Santiago with rich architectural heritage
Ezcaray
Charming mountain village known for textile tradition and Michelin-starred cuisine
Fornalutx
Often cited as one of Spain's most beautiful towns, located in the Serra de Tramuntana of Mallorca
Frigiliana
Stunning whitewashed village known as one of the prettiest in Andalusia with narrow winding streets
Getaria
Coastal village known for txakoli wine production and as the birthplace of fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga
Gijón
The largest city in Asturias, Gijón is a vibrant coastal city combining industrial heritage with beautiful beaches and a historic quarter. Features a revitalized waterfront, excellent maritime museums, and remains of ancient Roman baths. Known for its sidrerías (cider houses) and lively cultural scene.
Girona
Historic Catalan city known for its medieval architecture and cuisine.
Granada
Historic city in Andalusia, home of the Alhambra palace and Arab influence.
Guadalupe
Home to the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Guadix
One of Spain's most unusual towns, Guadix is famous for its cave dwellings carved into the soft clay of the surrounding hills. Over half the population lives in these unique underground homes, which stay naturally cool in summer and warm in winter. The town is dominated by an impressive cathedral and alcazaba (fortress), while the otherworldly landscape surrounding it feels like stepping onto another planet.
Haro
Town recognized as the capital of Rioja wine
Haro
Center of Rioja wine production with numerous traditional wineries and annual wine festival
Hecho
Traditional mountain village in the Pyrenees with stone houses and historical heritage
Hondarribia
Walled border town with a colorful fishermen's quarter and important gastronomy scene
Ibiza Town
More than just a party destination, Ibiza Town offers rich cultural experiences with its UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila (fortified Old Town), ancient necropolis of Puig des Molins, and authentic local markets where traditional crafts can be found alongside modern boutiques.
Jerez de la Frontera
The sherry capital of Spain, known for its wine cellars, equestrian tradition, and flamenco heritage. Home to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and numerous sherry bodegas.
La Alberca
Picturesque mountain village with well-preserved medieval architecture and strong traditional character
La Orotava
Historic town in Tenerife known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional balconies
Laguardia
Medieval walled village in Rioja wine country with underground wine cellars
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The capital of Gran Canaria and the largest city in the Canary Islands, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and beach life. Explore the historic district of Vegueta with its colonial architecture, visit Casa de Colón (Columbus House museum), and experience the vibrant local culture at Mercado de Vegueta.
Lastres
Coastal fishing village with steep streets and stunning sea views, featured in Spanish TV series
León
Founded as a Roman military camp in the 1st century BC, León became the capital of the Kingdom of León in the Middle Ages and played a crucial role in the Reconquista. The city features an impressive Gothic cathedral with spectacular stained glass windows, a Romanesque basilica, and a historic quarter filled with tapas bars and plazas. As an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, León combines religious heritage with a lively social atmosphere and university town energy.
Liérganes
Historic spa town with well-preserved 17th-18th century architecture and the legend of the Fish Man
Logroño
Capital of La Rioja wine region, renowned for its tapas scene along Calle Laurel and excellent wines. A major stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route with beautiful historic architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
Lorca
Baroque architecture and fortress city
Lugo
Ancient Roman city with the only complete Roman wall in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Madrid
Capital of Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
Mahón
The capital of Menorca with one of the largest natural harbors in the world. The city features Georgian architecture (a legacy of British rule), prehistoric archaeological sites, and a more relaxed atmosphere than its neighboring islands, perfect for authentic cultural experiences.
Marbella
Glamorous resort city on the Costa del Sol, known for its luxury lifestyle, beautiful old town, golden beaches, and year-round pleasant climate. A playground for the wealthy while still retaining Andalusian charm in its historic center.
Medinaceli
Built on a hilltop at about 1210 meters above sea level overlooking the Jalón valley, Medinaceli is most famous for housing the only three-gated Roman arch in Spain from the 1st-3rd centuries AD. This ancient town was once a strategic Islamic stronghold and later became the seat of the Dukes of Medinaceli. Its perfectly preserved medieval layout offers visitors a journey through time with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
Melilla
Spanish autonomous city located on the north coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. Known for its modernist architecture, multicultural heritage, and historic fortified old town.
Morella
Completely encircled by over 2km of impressive medieval walls, Morella rises dramatically on a hillside crowned by its imposing castle. This perfectly preserved medieval town in the mountainous interior of Valencia province features narrow winding streets, Gothic churches, and Renaissance palaces. Its remote location has helped preserve both its architectural heritage and traditional crafts, including the production of blankets, cheese, and truffle-infused products from the surrounding forests.
Málaga
A coastal city in Andalusia known for its beautiful beaches, historic center, and being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso.
Olite
Medieval town dominated by a spectacular Gothic castle-palace once home to the Kings of Navarre
Oviedo
The capital of Asturias, known for its medieval old town, stunning cathedral, and vibrant cultural scene. Oviedo is famous for its pre-Romanesque churches, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, and for being a significant stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Palma de Mallorca
The capital of Mallorca featuring a stunning Gothic cathedral, historic old town, and vibrant cultural scene. The city offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration with La Seu Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and charming narrow streets of the old quarter.
Pamplona
Capital of Navarre, famous for the Running of the Bulls during San Fermin.
Potes
Mountain town near Picos de Europa, known for medieval bridges
Ribadeo
Coastal town on the border between Galicia and Asturias, famous for being home to one of Spain's most unique beaches - As Catedrais (Cathedral Beach). Features a charming historic center, a marina, and beautiful coastal landscapes.
Ronda
Dramatic cliff-top city in Andalusia famous for its spectacular gorge, beautiful old town, and bullfighting history.
Salamanca
A UNESCO World Heritage city known for its stunning sandstone architecture, magnificent Plaza Mayor, and prestigious university founded in 1134. The "Golden City" features two cathedrals, numerous palaces, and a vibrant cultural scene centered around its historic university, which is one of the oldest in Europe.
San Sebastian
Also known as Donostia in Basque, San Sebastian is one of Spain's most beautiful cities, renowned for its stunning beaches, sophisticated culture, and world-class cuisine. Home to more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other city in the world and famous for its pintxos (Basque tapas). The elegant Belle Époque architecture, spectacular bay setting, and cultural events like the San Sebastian International Film Festival make it a top destination in northern Spain.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The capital of Tenerife and co-capital of the Canary Islands, known for its stunning Auditorio de Tenerife, historic buildings, and one of Spain's most important carnivals. The city offers authentic Canarian culture with its museums, plazas, and local cuisine, while serving as a gateway to exploring the diverse landscapes of Tenerife.
Santiago de Compostela
Capital of Galicia and the destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.
Santillana del Mar
Often called the "town of three lies" as it is neither a saint (santa), flat (llana), nor by the sea (mar). This perfectly preserved medieval village is one of Spain's most beautiful, featuring cobblestone streets and historic stone buildings dating from the 14th-18th centuries. Located near the famous Altamira Caves.
Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Stop on the Camino de Santiago with medieval heritage
Segovia
A historic city famous for its magnificent Roman aqueduct, fairytale-like Alcázar, and elegant Gothic cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage city features perfectly preserved medieval walls, Renaissance palaces, and Romanesque churches. The city's dramatic setting on a rocky limestone ridge between two rivers adds to its spectacular beauty.
Seville
Capital of Andalusia, famous for flamenco, Moorish architecture, and the Alcázar palace.
Teror
Picturesque village in Gran Canaria known for its religious significance and colonial architecture
Toledo
Historic city south of Madrid known as the "City of Three Cultures".
Tossa de Mar
Charming coastal town on the Costa Brava with golden sand beaches, pine-scented air, and a beautiful medieval old town featuring defensive turrets. Known for combining beach relaxation with historic charm.
Trujillo
Medieval town known for its conquistador history
Trujillo
Birthplace of conquistadors with a remarkable medieval and Renaissance historic center
Valencia
Known for the City of Arts and Sciences and as the birthplace of paella.
Valldemossa
Mountain village in Mallorca known for its Carthusian monastery where Chopin and George Sand stayed
Zafra
Charming small city with a historical castle and squares
Ávila
Known for its perfectly preserved medieval walls, Ávila is one of Spain's highest provincial capitals with an altitude of 1,131 meters. Founded in the 11th century to protect Spanish territories from Moorish invasions, the city is the birthplace of Saint Teresa and maintains a mystical atmosphere with its numerous churches and convents. The impressive stone walls with 88 towers and 9 gates encircle the old town, creating one of the best examples of a medieval fortified city in Europe.