Spain’s most famous cities are as popular as ever, but for many travellers, the reality of overcrowded pavements and timed entry tickets can dull the magic.
According to one expat, the secret to enjoying Spain isn’t skipping its main cities and attractions altogether – it’s knowing where and when to look.
James Smith, founder of Learn Spanish with James, has spent more than a decade living and working across Spain, as well as in Argentina and Costa Rica. He said many visitors leave Spain feeling underwhelmed, despite ticking off all the headline sights – but this can be avoided.
The expat explained: “After years of living in Spain and guiding students through the country’s culture, I’ve seen countless visitors return from ‘must-see’ attractions feeling disappointed.”
La Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions, but it comes with large crowds
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Smith recommended sidestepping the obvious attractions to experience a less crowded and more authentic side of Spain.
Barcelona
Barcelona’s most talked-about attractions might be the Sagrada Família, Park Güell and Las Ramblas, but they are also magnets for crowds. The expat added some of the city’s best experiences can be found elsewhere.
For sweeping views without entry fees or queues, consider visiting the Bunkers del Carmel, a former anti-aircraft site with uninterrupted views from the Mediterranean to the surrounding hills. It is popular with locals and is especially atmospheric at sunset, as the lights in Barcelona start to turn on.
At street level, Smith advised swapping the central avenues for neighbourhoods such as El Born or Gràcia.
Here, you will find independent cafés, menus written first in Catalan, and striking architecture that can be admired without being shoulder-to-shoulder with tour groups.
Madrid
If visiting Madrid, Smith suggested going to Plaza Mayor early in the morning before tour buses arrive. At that hour, the square has a more laidback feel as stallholders set up and locals wander through.
For a deeper sense of the city, he recommended heading to La Latina. Its narrow streets are lined with old taverns, traditional markets and no-nonsense tapas bars where standing at the counter is part of the experience.
The expat recommended quieter ways to explore Madrid
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Smith shared more insight on when to visit the main attractions and on how to discover something new during your next trip to Spain. He said: “The best Spain exists just beyond the tourist maps. My advice is simple: arrive early or stay late. Most famous sites are bearable before 9am or after 7pm when day-trippers have moved on.
“Talk to your accommodation hosts about where they eat and drink. Locals rarely steer you wrong, and you’ll discover places that guidebooks miss entirely.
“Learn even basic Spanish phrases. ‘¿Dónde comen los locales?’ (Where do locals eat?) works wonders. People appreciate the effort and often share hidden gems they’d never mention to someone who doesn’t try.
“Finally, stay curious about the neighbourhoods surrounding famous landmarks. The streets two blocks away often hold more authentic culture than the attraction itself. Spain rewards those willing to wander off the beaten path.”