5 Best Places To Visit In Spain (But Not To Live)

There are many good reasons why Spain consistently ranks among the most visited countries in the world. Spain has everything–from rich history and diverse architecture to beautiful natural landscapes. 

Spain's incredible gastronomy is another highlight that draws visitors year after year. It is a fantastic country to visit, offering something for every type of traveller—families, young adults, and couples alike.

However, while Spain is an incredible destination for a holiday, that doesn’t mean it’s the right place to consider for a long-term move. In this article, we’ll highlight the best places to visit in Spain and explore why it might not be an ideal Plan-B destination for you.

Golden beaches, a rich cultural heritage, and remarkable cuisine make Málaga a paradise in Andalusia

5. MÁLAGA

Málaga is a dynamic city and cultural hub with a rich history and abundant leisure opportunities. Its beautiful coastlines, sunny climate, and culinary offerings make it one of Southern Spain's best places to visit. 

Start your visit with the Alcazaba, an architectural masterpiece and one of Spain’s most well-preserved ancient fortresses, dating back to Al-Andalus times. This impressive military stronghold is even older than the famous Alhambra in Granada. Just a short walk away, you can find the Catedral, a stunning Renaissance cathedral often dubbed “La Manquita” (one-armed) due to its unfinished second tower. If you want to learn about Pablo Picasso, one of the city’s icons, you can visit the Museo Picasso. Then, finish your day walking down Calle Larios, Malaga’s main avenue filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. 

If you want to explore beyond the city, head to Nerja, a picturesque town famous for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and quiet, whitewashed streets. It’s arguably one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. For a more luxurious experience, Marbella is the place to be with its beach clubs, top-notch resorts, and lively nightlife scene in its charming old town. 

Málaga’s culinary scene is also enticing. First off, locals love to enjoy their meals with a beautiful beach view, and to do that, they go to the ‘chiringuitos,’ a traditional Spanish beach bar or restaurant. Málaga is a fish paradise, with the ‘espeto de sardinas’ as the crown jewel. This dish is a local specialty of sardine skewers grilled over an open flame. Typical tapas include fried calamari and the quintessential ‘mojama’ (salt-cured tuna fillets). For dessert, try ‘torta malagueña’ (almond-based cake) and ‘bienmesabe’ (a sweet made with almonds, eggs, and honey). 

Alicante offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, fascinating history, and unforgettable cuisine

4. ALICANTE

Alicante is a beautiful city off the East coast of Spain, south of Valencia. Here, you can visit sunny beaches and stunning castles and enjoy some of the best food in the entire country, like the local rice dishes and the sweet ‘turrón.’

Start your exploration with a visit to the Santa Bárbara Castle, an old fortress on the top of Mount Benacantil that offers panoramic views of Alicante’s coastline and cityscape. Then, head down to Postiguet Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Speaking of beaches, don’t miss the Santa Cruz neighbourhood with its narrow streets and beautiful flower-adorned, whitewashed houses designed to combat the humid summers.

Not all the fun is concentrated in the city. You can head to Benidorm, arguably one of the best places for young adults to visit in Spain due to its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. You can also spend some time in Dénia, which is famous for its castle and panoramic views of the harbour. 

When it comes to food, Alicante doesn’t disappoint due to its abundance of fresh produce and culinary traditions. Do not miss products like ‘mojama,’ often served in a salad and various types of fresh seafood. A typical dish you must try is the ‘arroz a banda,’ a flavourful rice dish cooked with fish broth, and when it comes to dessert, there’s nothing that speaks better of Alicante than ‘turrón,’ a sweet treat made with honey, egg whites, and almonds.

From the vibrant Sagrada Família to its tranquil beaches, Barcelona is a place full of contrasts

3. BARCELONA

Barcelona, the most visited city in Spain, is one of the best places for first-timers to visit. It offers a great mix of culture, history, and beachside experiences, making it an excellent place for all types of travellers. 

Visiting La Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s stunning basilica with beautiful façades and high spires, is a must for architecture lovers. Interestingly enough, this masterpiece is still not completed. Still, its symbolism, from the 12 outer spires symbolizing the 12 apostles to the central spire symbolizing Jesus Christ, definitely makes this building worth a visit. Gaudí’s masterpieces don’t end there, though, as you can go to Park Güell, with its mosaics and city views, or Casa Batlló, a true example of modernist architecture. 

For a day trip outside the big city, head to Sitges, a charming coastal town just a short train ride away. Due to its numerous restaurants, lively atmosphere, and beautiful beaches, it is arguably one of the best places in Spain for couples seeking a romantic getaway. 

Finally, Barcelona’s food scene is not to be missed. As a cosmopolitan city, you can try food from all over the world, and the local offerings cater to all types of travellers. For instance, try the ‘esqueixada de bacallà’ (shredded cod with chopped tomatoes, red peppers, onions, and olive oil) or the popular ‘Arròs negre’ (black rice made with squid’s ink and served with aioli). For an authentic Catalan experience, don’t miss the famous ‘pa amb tomàquet,’ rustic bread topped with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and salt, a simple yet delicious breakfast. 

Related content: Spain Says Adiós To Golden Visa: How it Impacts Expats

With the Alhambra, the Albaicín, and generous tapas, Granada offers an authentic experience in Andalusia

2. GRANADA

Granada, located in Andalusia, is a city that overlaps history, culture, and nature. Its many stunning landmarks and abundant cultural heritage make it one of the best places for first-timers in Spain. 

First, a non-negotiable when visiting Spain is no other than the Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its Islamic architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views make it one of the best places for couples. But if you want even more beautiful views, head to the Mirador de San Nicolás in the historic Albaicín neighbourhood on the east side of Granada. This viewpoint is perfect for watching the Alhambra and the sunset against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

In Albaicín, the Grand Mosque of Granada is another must-see. This white, elegant mosque honours the city’s Moorish history and offers its own views of the Alhambra, making it a great spot to relax after going up the hills of Albaicín. If you seek an outdoor adventure, you can also head to the Sierra Nevada mountains, a haven for hiking and skiing, or just admire the region's natural beauty.

Lastly, after sightseeing, or even in between activities, head to the bars in the city to enjoy various tapas along with your drink of choice. For under $11 USD, you probably won’t need to pay full price for a meal because the portions tend to be huge! Granada offers something for everyone. Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique vibe make it stand out as one of Spain's best places to visit.

With iconic attractions and easy access to other destinations, Madrid is the perfect starting point for your adventure

1. MADRID

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a city where travellers of all kinds can make plans and have a great time. Whether you want to learn more about Spain’s history, visit top museums, or try food from around the world, Madrid is one of the best places in the country to visit. 

Start your trip by visiting the famous Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral, two of Madrid's most beautiful monuments. The nearby Campo del Moro Park is romantic for couples, with many beautiful gardens and abundant flowers. Next, head to the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by artists like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. After a day of sightseeing, we cannot neglect the centric Retiro Park, a perfect place for unwinding and getting fresh air in the middle of the city. 

Madrid’s culinary scene is not to be taken lightly, either. You can enjoy typical tapas served for free with your drink or go to any of the restaurants serving Spanish omelettes or iconic calamari sandwiches for a few bucks. Also, note that Madrid is a cosmopolitan city, so you can try food from all over the world. 

Finally, here’s a pro travelling tip: use Madrid as your hub for exploring the rest of the country, as well as neighbouring Portugal and Morocco. The city’s two main train stations in Chamartín and Atocha and the convenient Barajas International Airport offer seamless connectivity to other major cities to continue your exploration.

The European Central Bank's push for CBDCs poses a significant threat to individual freedom, highlighting the dangers of centralized monetary control in Spain and across the EU

REASONS WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MOVE TO SPAIN

Spain is a beautiful country famous for its sunny weather, delicious food, and rich culture. It’s easy to see why so many people dream of living there. But when you look beyond the surface, Spain isn’t always the paradise it seems—especially if you consider it a Plan-B destination. High taxes, bureaucratic headaches, and challenges like a rising cost of living and limited opportunities can quickly overshadow the charm. Here’s a closer look at why Spain might not be the best choice for your backup plan:

• Brain Drain and Limited Opportunities: Many skilled professionals leave Spain for better opportunities. Expats entering the job market may face low wages and long hours, and their high-value contributions are often undervalued.

• Infrastructure Divide: While urban centres like Madrid and Barcelona offer modern amenities, rural areas suffer from poor infrastructure, weak internet, and isolation. Urban living comes at a high cost.

• High Taxes: Spain's tax system heavily burdens workers and investors, especially with wealth taxation. Public services like healthcare and infrastructure often fail to justify the high tax rates.

• Cost of Living and Hidden Expenses: Though Spain's cost of living is lower than other EU countries, essential goods and services, like olive oil and toll roads, can be unexpectedly expensive.

• High Bureaucracy: Spain's government excels at collecting taxes but struggles with administrative efficiency. Expats often face a labyrinth of paperwork and delays, adding frustration to an already burdensome tax system.

• Agricultural Sector Under Pressure: EU regulations, tax pressures, and Agenda 2030 policies are negatively impacting Spanish farmers, raising concerns about food shortages and the long-term sustainability of Spain's renowned cuisine.

• Global Agendas and Monetary Policy: EU membership limits Spain's sovereignty, with policies like the European Central Bank's control and potential CBDCs threatening personal freedoms.

Spain is a stunning place to visit but far from ideal as a Plan-B destination. High taxes, complex bureaucracy, and other challenges make it unappealing for those considering full-time relocation

CONCLUSION

Spain is a country full of incredible places to explore, offering a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the lively streets of its vibrant cities to the peaceful charm of its coastal villages, there’s something here for everyone. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve returned to discover hidden gems, Spain promises unforgettable experiences.

That said, while Spain is a fantastic place to visit, it might not be the best choice for a Plan-B destination. High taxes, complex bureaucracy, and other challenges make it less appealing for those looking to relocate full-time. Thankfully, the world has better options to call home, and we’re here to help you find the right one. By subscribing to our newsletter, you’ll receive our free report, “Plan-B Residencies and Instant Citizenships,” with all the key information you need to get started.