Spain isn’t just about popular resorts and big cities. The country is home to dozens of lesser-known destinations that can offer a much more authentic travel experience. Learn more about the 5 best travel destinations in Spain to visit in 2026

Spain has long been associated with Barcelona, Madrid, and popular resorts, but the country’s true magic is often hidden off the beaten path. It is there that you can find charming towns, wild coastlines, and places where life moves at a slower, more authentic pace.

These destinations offer a completely different travel experience: fewer crowds, more local culture, authentic cuisine, and the feeling that you’ve discovered something unique. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to see Spain from a new perspective.

This article highlights the 5 best travel destinations in Spain that you should add to your itinerary in 2026.

In the previous article, we talked about the TOP-10 tourist destinations according to Time Out, which are definitely worth visiting in 2026.

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La Coruña

La Coruña is a port city in northwestern Spain that is often overlooked by tourists but offers a completely different travel experience. Here, you can feel the true Atlantic character: fresh air, ocean waves, and a leisurely pace of life that stands in stark contrast to the country’s more popular resorts.

One of the city’s main features is its famous “glass facades”—buildings with glass-enclosed balconies that create a unique play of light along the waterfront. The heart of the city is María Pita Square with its majestic town hall, where city events and festivals are often held.

The main historical landmark is the Tower of Hercules, the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world, dating back to ancient Rome. It offers a panoramic view of the ocean and the coastline, making this one of the most impressive spots in the region.

Riasor Beach deserves special attention—a long, crescent-shaped stretch of sand where you can not only relax but also experience the authentic atmosphere of northern Spain. And the local restaurants offer fresh seafood, considered among the best in the country.

Ceuta

Ceuta is one of Spain’s most unique locations, as it is geographically situated in Africa. It is a Spanish exclave on the Mediterranean coast, where Morocco begins just a few kilometers away, and Europe is visible across the Strait of Gibraltar.

The city blends several cultures—Spanish, Arab, and Mediterranean—which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and daily life. There is no typical “European resort” here; instead, there is a unique atmosphere where continents and traditions intersect.

The main historical landmark is the Royal Walls (Murallas Reales) with a moat that is still filled with water. It is one of the few fortifications in Europe of this type, and it has been well-preserved to this day.

For relaxation, be sure to visit the Marítimo del Mediterráneo Park—a complex of artificial lagoons and pools designed by architect César Manrique. And from the San Antonio viewpoint, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Strait of Gibraltar—the place where Europe and Africa literally meet.

In our previous article, we provided a selection of 7 European beach destinations for an early getaway, where it’s already warm in May.

Menorca

Menorca is one of the Balearic Islands, significantly different from the popular Mallorca. The island has held UNESCO biosphere reserve status since 1993, which limits large-scale development and allows natural landscapes to remain almost untouched. That is why there are far fewer large hotels and mass tourism here.

Menorca’s main attraction is its more than 100 small coves (calas) with turquoise waters, many of which are accessible only on foot or by boat. Among the most famous are Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana, where the water is so clear that you can see the bottom even at depth.

The island’s capital, Mahón, has one of the largest natural harbors in Europe (about 5 km long), while the town of Ciutadella is a historic center with narrow streets, Gothic buildings, and the atmosphere of old Spain. Here, 17th–18th-century palaces and traditional markets with local products have been preserved.

Another unique feature of Menorca is its ancient megalithic structures (talayots and navets), which are over 3,000 years old. These are among the best-preserved prehistoric sites in Europe, making the island appealing not only for beach tourism but also for cultural tourism.

Cuenca

Cuenca is one of Spain’s most unusual cities, situated between the gorges of the Júcar and Uécar rivers. Its main attraction is the famous “hanging houses” (Casas Colgadas), which literally hover over the abyss and resemble a medieval architectural experiment.

Cuenca’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its unique combination of natural landscape and historic architecture. It is home to one of Spain’s earliest Gothic cathedrals—the Catedral de Cuenca—which blends Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Special attention should be paid to the Museum of Abstract Art, located right in the “hanging houses.” It is one of the best museums of contemporary art in the country, creating an interesting contrast between ancient architecture and avant-garde exhibitions.

Another landmark is the San Pablo Bridge, which offers the best view of the gorge and the old town. This is where people take the very photos that draw many tourists to Cuenca.

In the previous article, we talked about 3 underrated European destinations for summer vacations.

El Hierro

El Hierro is the smallest and most remote of the Canary Islands, chosen by those who want to escape mass tourism. There are no large resorts or all-inclusive hotels here—instead, the island offers wild nature, volcanic landscapes, and a supremely peaceful pace of life.

The island is known as one of the most eco-friendly in Europe: a significant portion of its energy is generated by wind and water (the Gorona del Viento project). This makes Hierro a model of sustainable tourism, which is becoming increasingly popular in 2026.

One of the main attractions is the Mirador de la Peña viewpoint, designed by architect César Manrique. From here, a panoramic view opens up of the Atlantic Ocean and the rocky coastline, which looks particularly impressive at sunset.

For lovers of active recreation, Hierro is a real gem. The village of La Restinga is considered one of the best diving spots in Europe thanks to its crystal-clear waters and volcanic underwater terrain. And the natural lava pools (charcos) allow for safe swimming even when the ocean waves are strong.

Are you planning a trip and want to prepare without unnecessary stress? Visit World's travel guide contains key tips for travelers: rules of entry and stay, current requirements for tourists, basic safety, transportation and accommodation. Such a guide will help you quickly navigate a new country, avoid common mistakes during your trip, and plan your route taking into account practical nuances that often go unnoticed by tourists.

We remind you! Popular tourist destinations can be a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor’s advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension – and what alternatives to choose instead.

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