Most visited cities in Spain

Your ultimate resource for discovering the allure of Spain’s most visited cities. Spain is renowned for its captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a dream destination for travelers from around the globe.

Whether you’re seeking architectural marvels, world-class museums, culinary delights, or vibrant nightlife, the cities of Spain have it all. In this guide, we will unveil the top 10 cities in Spain that should be on your must-visit list. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the charming squares of Seville, each city offers a unique experience that will leave you mesmerized. Join us as we embark on a virtual tour through the most visited cities in Spain, discovering their hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and the irresistible Spanish charm that awaits at every turn.

There is a growing trend of Americans who want to buy property in Spain and live in one of the best cities in Spain because the cost of living in Spain is so cheap. If you need help to live in Spain contact us and we will advise you on the best Spanish visa for you.

When you’re looking at living in another country, you have to think about the lifestyle that you want. Do you want the fast pace and excitement of a major city or the slow and charming life found in a smaller town? Do you want to live near the water or spend time inland? Geography plays an important part in the decision. Cities in Spain offer everything from mountains and plains to beachfront living. And what type of weather do you like? Once again Spain offers a variety, from the warm Mediterranean climate to the climate you will find by the ocean. Whatever you choose, these cities in Spain will offer you a lifestyle of your choosing, depending on which region of Spain you want to live in.

Madrid is the most important city in Spain (Capital)

It’s impossible to talk about cities in Spain without talking about the capital city. Madrid offers a variety of cuisine, suitable to almost any palette. And because of the large number of people that move into the city, you will also find a mix of citizens from all over the world. The city also supports a robust nightlife with everything from tapas bars to flamenco theaters and nightclubs. The focal point for much of the nighttime entertainment is the Plaza de Santa Ana, which is also a very popular tourist spot. Madrid offers all the amenities of a large city with quality healthcare, education, and transportation along with the history that you can find throughout the city.

Barcelona is Spain’s most visited city in Spain

Another major city in Spain to put on your list is the worldly city of Barcelona, is the most famous city in Spain. This autonomous community is actually the capital of Catalonia and a municipality of Spain. The city often makes one of the top cities as far as liveability. The city is also one of the fashion capitals of the world and offers not only fashion but beautiful architecture and weather as well. Education is also thriving in this continental city with a variety of universities, including the University of Barcelona, which dates back to the 15th century. Entertainment is also easily come by with the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house, the Barcelona Symphony and Catalonia National Orchestra, and a variety of sports teams including the world-famous football club, basketball, and even a hockey team. People in Barcelona are rarely without something to do. This port city also hosts cruise ships daily and has one of the largest airports in Europe for any travel needs.

Las Palmas of Canary Islands: A Gem Amongst the Cities in Spain to Visit

If that cool Mediterranean island vibe is more what you’re looking for, then this city might be just what the doctor ordered. This autonomous community is part of the Canary Islands and offers world-famous beaches and tropical weather throughout the year. The people here come from mainland Spain, but there is also a good mix of people from around the world, including Africa. The Canary Islands are just off the coast of Northern Africa, and Spain is the only country in Europe that touches the African continent. Culture and Education abound in this island city, with a solid school system, museums, and theaters throughout the city. The famous Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the highlights of the city and draws people from around the world. This port city is one of the most beautiful and friendly places in the world.

Seville, city with a lot of art

You will find this unique city on the Iberian Peninsula and is a part of Andalusia. The city offers breathtaking and historic architecture and is one of the most popular cities to visit. One such example is the St. Mary of the See Cathedral that was built in the 15th and 16th centuries. In the same area as the cathedral, you can find more architectural wonders and plazas. The city also supports a variety of lush parks and gardens and offers entertainment via theaters, festivals, and religious celebrations. Seville has sports teams, universities, and a restaurant scene that includes everything from seafood to the ever-popular tapas plates.

Granada, Magnificent city visited by many tourists

This city is at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Spain. The mountains are famous for skiing and snow time activities, this area is completely different from the tropical and Mediterranean areas found throughout Spain. Granada is a smaller city with an overall population of under 500,000. Although the city sits at the foot of a mountain range, the climate is warm overall with temperatures rarely dipping below 34 degrees Fahrenheit. The city offers an amalgam of Spanish and Islamic culture, art, and architecture, making it a unique city in this area of the world. This combination along with a strong Jewish tradition brings some unique food options to the area. Entertainment options are usually gatherings, with concerts, festivals, and street parties throughout the year.

Palma de Mallorca, The most visited city by Germans

Heading back to the beach, you’ll find Palma de Mallorca high on the list. The panoramas available in this area are some of the most beautiful of all the cities in Spain. The Mediterranean climate offers warm days throughout the year, with summer getting hot, but a dip in the ocean can always take care of that. Basketball, football and water sports are popular in this seaside town. And the population hovers around a little over 500,000 with an Arab influence throughout the city. Transportation around the city is easy to find and there is plenty of historical architecture throughout. This Spanish city has a laid-back and seaside vibe throughout.

Costa del Sol, Most visited by Brits who want to enjoy the good weather

Costa del Sol is translated into the Coast of the Sun, so you can imagine the temperatures and area. Sitting in the south of Spain this area was previously known for fishing prior to it becoming more popular with tourists. Cruise ships often make the city a port of call and have created a robust tourist economy. The beaches and surrounding area are breathtaking and the Torremolinos golf course has views that you just can’t find anywhere else. Food is influenced by Spanish and Arabian customs and you’ll find Churros, which is a fried pastry dish, and café con Leche a hot chocolate drink often served for breakfast. The perfect treat to have before heading to the beach in this city by the sea.

Valencia: One of the Famous Cities in Spain with Endless Charms

Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain with a population sitting just shy of one million. The city has festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Falles, which has been happening since the 18th century. This ancient city started out as a Roman colony and many buildings can be found from the Roman and Arabic eras. This coastal city offers warm temperatures throughout the year and great food history with paella (a rice and meat dish) being on the top of the menu. The city has a variety of sports and entertainment options, not the least of which is just walking around and admiring the ancient architecture.

Malaga: A Vibrant City in Spain Where Rich History Meets Modern Sophistication

Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world and is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. So this city is steeped in history. Festivals abound in this city and there is a strong Catholic influence as evidence by Holy week that has been celebrated for centuries here. Food is seafood-based with the most famous dish being espetos, which are sardines cooked right on the beach. Art museums, restaurants, and entertainment can be found throughout the city, and transportation options are plentiful.

It is the ideal place for many English retirees who want to retire in Malaga.

San Sebastian: A Culinary Haven and Coastal Paradise in Spain

If you’re looking for more temperate climes, rather than the tropical feel, this city might be the one. This Spanish city is part of the Basque region and has an overall population of just a little over 430,000. The city is famous for its festivals including San Sebastián Day and Basque Week, where their culture is celebrated all week long. As far as food goes, you probably can’t find a better city in the world. San Sebastian has multiple restaurants that have been awarded Michelin Stars, in fact, it is the city with the second most Michelin Star restaurants per capita in the world. There are several top universities in the area and a variety of sports options available.

Spain offers not just tourists a bevy of options but gives people who want to move to this European country a lifestyle like no other. Whether you’re looking for a great retirement spot, a place to start fresh, or even began a business there are plenty of opportunities in Spain. And if you’re looking for visa options(Golden Visa Spain or NLV), consult us and we will advise you and information on how it can be done.

What are the 3 most important cities in Spain?

The most important cities in Spain for me are Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, although very close to Valencia could be Bilbao, Malaga and Seville. If you are looking for a city with a good climate you could rule out Bilbao, as it is colder in the north.

What are the 3 best cities to visit in Spain?

The Spanish cities that you have to visit are Barcelona is a spectacular city with all the architecture of Gaudi, next to the sea… Another of the cities that you must visit is Madrid, as it is the capital of Spain and there are many museums… The third position could be many other cities such as Malaga, Valencia… There are many cities to visit in Spain

I want to stay more than 90 days in Spain, what should I do?

If you want to stay more than 90 days in Spain you need to have a visa, there are several options to choose the visa, for example if you want to retire in Spain you could choose the non lucrative visa.

If you want to find the cheapest cities in Spain you can check this posts. If you need anything else, leave it in the comments or send us an email.