A travel agent has rattled off the five Spanish destinations you should jet off to “before you die” – and they’re a bit different to your typical Madrid or Barcelona city break
Spain has plenty to offer beyond the usual tourist spots(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Spain is one of the top destinations for British holidaymakers – with a whopping 18 million of us visiting the European country each year. However, there are parts of Spain that can be overlooked by tourists because many flock to well-trodden paths like Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands.
So to ensure travel fans aren’t missing out on some hidden gems, a globe-trotting expert has divulged five places you must add to your bucket list. Carlos Lavilla said: “These are the five destinations in Spain you should visit at least once in your life. Remember, this is just my personal opinion as a travel agent and an inveterate traveller for more than 30 years.”
So would you ever give them a visit? Check out the full list below to see if anything takes your fancy…
1. Frigiliana, Malaga
Frigiliana village sits right by the beaches of the region(Image: Getty Images)
Frigiliana is famous for its well-preserved Moorish old quarter, with narrow, winding cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, colourful doors, and flower-filled balconies.
The village is perched on a hillside, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, countryside, and the Mediterranean Sea.
For that reason, it’s no surprise it’s considered one of the prettiest villages in Andalusia and has won awards for its beauty.
It’s also close to the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, making it a great base for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor activities.
2. Merida, Badajoz
The Acueducto de los Milagros(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Merida is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman ruins, as it was once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania.
People flock to the UNESCO World Heritage Site to see historic landmarks including the Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, Temple of Diana and Roman Bridge over the Guadiana River.
Beyond its Roman past, Mérida has layers of culture left behind from Visigothic, Moorish, and Christian periods, visible in its architecture and museums.
It’s a paradise for history buffs, that’s for sure!
3. Albarracin, Teruel
Albarracín taken from the hill in front of the town(Image: Getty Images)
Albarracín is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its pink-hued houses, narrow winding streets, wooden balconies, and ancient stone walls create a fairy-tale atmosphere.
The town’s medieval layout and architecture are exceptionally well preserved, which takes the breath away of tourists who visit.
When visiting, you can check out the impressive city walls that snake up the hillside, as well as the ruins of the Moorish castle.
Walking along the walls provides panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside, so get your camera at the ready.
4. Salamanca, Castilla y León
Salamanca cathedral was constructed between the 16th and 18th century(Image: Getty Images)
Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning golden sandstone buildings and harmonious architecture.
Plaza Mayor is one of Spain’s most beautiful main squares, which has a lively and elegant atmosphere.
You can also stroll around the University of Salamanca, which was founded in 1218 and is one of the oldest campuses in Europe.
After all that exploring, it’s time to eat! The city offers delicious Castilian cuisine, including specialties like hornazo (meat pie), jamón ibérico, and local cheeses, enjoyed in traditional tapas bars and restaurants.
5. Consuegra, Toledo
Castilla-La Mancha in Toledo is a must-visit(Image: Getty )
Consuegra is famous for its row of white windmills perched on a ridge, which inspired the legendary windmill scene in Miguel de Cervantes’ “Don Quixote.”
These windmills are among the most photographed in Spain and offer a direct connection to the country’s literary heritage.
The hilltop location provides sweeping vistas over the vast plains of La Mancha, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
It’s also conveniently located about an hour’s drive from Toledo and two hours from Madrid, making it a popular day trip destination.