The Best Cities to Live in Spain (That You’ve Probably Never Heard Of)

When expats think of moving to Spain, a familiar list of cities often comes to mind—Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, or Malaga. Each of these iconic destinations offers cultural excitement, sunny climates, and bustling urban lifestyles.

While these well-known locations certainly hold appeal, Spain is also rich in smaller, lesser-known cities and towns that provide extraordinary quality of life, charm, affordability, and unique cultural experiences.

Exploring these hidden gems reveals a different side of Spain—one filled with quiet streets, friendly communities, lower living costs, fascinating histories, and less tourist-driven energy.

Maybe you want to escape city crowds, live closer to nature, or experience authentic local life. Whatever the reason to avoid the most popular destinations, these under-the-radar cities deserve to be considered for your new Spanish home.

Girona

Girona is frequently overshadowed by nearby Barcelona, but this picturesque Catalan city offers all the charm and sophistication of its larger neighbor, without the chaos. Situated approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Barcelona, Girona has managed to maintain an intimate, laid-back atmosphere.

Girona has a definite storybook quality to it, making a walk through it a magical occasion. Medieval streets, Romanesque architecture, and historic Jewish Quarter are breathtaking, but the city isn’t trapped in its past. Girona also gives you modern cafes and boutiques. It has become a culinary powerhouse, too—home to El Celler de Can Roca, one of the world’s top restaurants (and the recipient of three Michelin stars).

The local climate is comfortably Mediterranean: summers are warm and sunny, while winters remain mild, rarely becoming too cold. Nature lovers will enjoy nearby access to both the Pyrenees Mountains and the Costa Brava’s pristine beaches, offering ideal weekend escapes.

For expats, Girona offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. It’s welcoming without being overwhelming—allowing residents to integrate smoothly into Catalan culture while benefiting from a calmer pace of life.

Logroño

Logroño, the capital of Spain’s celebrated La Rioja wine region, is a city largely undiscovered by expats, even though its big enough at around 150,000 residents.

At the heart of Logroño is the celebrated Calle Laurel—a narrow street packed with over fifty lively tapas bars and eateries. Locals gather here every night to savor Rioja wines and the city’s unique take on Spanish pintxos. That means the lifestyle here can be very social and food-centric.

Despite its small size, Logroño pulses with community activity year-round. Festivals, markets, and cultural events frequently fill its cobbled squares and streets. Its cost of living is noticeably lower compared to Madrid or Barcelona, making it appealing for expats looking for affordability without compromising cultural vitality.

Logroño’s climate reflects its inland location—hot summers and cool winters—yet it still manages ample sunshine year-round, perfect for outdoor lovers who want to spend their time hiking or exploring the surrounding vineyards.

Cáceres

Nestled in Spain’s western Extremadura region, Cáceres is an awe-inspiring historic city surprisingly overlooked by expats. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cáceres offers a life that feels like a step back into medieval Spain—but with all the conveniences of modern living (for the most part).

Its impeccably preserved Old Town brims with Renaissance palaces, Gothic churches, and Moorish architecture. Yes, it is as impressive as it sounds. However, Cáceres doesn’t live exclusively in the past. It is home to a large student population—thanks to the University of Extremadura—that brings with it a youthful atmosphere, with excellent cafes, nightlife, and events.

Climate-wise, Cáceres experiences hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variation without extreme cold. You are within easy reach of the Monfragüe National Park, home to diverse wildlife and serene hiking trails.

For expats interested in authenticity and history, Cáceres provides a superb alternative to Spain’s better-known cities.

Pontevedra

Located in Spain’s verdant Galicia region, Pontevedra might be Spain’s most pedestrian-friendly city you’ve never heard of. Over recent years, Pontevedra has gained international acclaim for prioritizing pedestrians over vehicles, dramatically improving urban life quality.

Without the constant noise and congestion of traffic, life here unfolds at a slower, calmer pace. Residents regularly stroll along charming plazas and historic streets, enjoying local seafood and Galician cuisine at cafes and markets, as well as stunning landmarks. Pontevedra’s focus on walkability has cultivated a strong sense of community, making social integration particularly easy for newcomers.

Galicia’s climate differs notably from southern Spain. Here you’ll find milder summers and wetter winters—perfect for expats seeking a green, tranquil setting rather than intense Mediterranean heat. The city is also near the Atlantic coastline, offering endless outdoor and recreational opportunities.

Living in Pontevedra is all about quality over quantity, community over isolation. For those who prefer simplicity and an eco-friendly lifestyle, this city is a genuine find.

Cartagena

While Murcia’s capital city is better known, Cartagena—a coastal city nestled along southeastern Spain’s Costa Cálida—often escapes the expat radar. This historic port city blends Mediterranean beauty, ancient heritage, and modern livability.

Founded by the Carthaginians and further shaped by Romans and Moors, Cartagena’s past is visible everywhere—from Roman amphitheaters to impressive fortresses and even great walls.

Cartagena enjoys a desirable Mediterranean climate, boasting more than 300 days of sunshine annually. Summers are hot, perfect for beach visits and maritime activities, while winters remain pleasantly mild. Expats here can easily embrace a relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle—swimming, sailing, and fishing are year-round pursuits.

Its cost of living is notably affordable compared to larger coastal destinations, offering outstanding value for expats seeking coastal life without the usual financial burden.

Exploring Hidden Spain

Spain’s under-the-radar cities offer so much to the expat seeking an affordable, beautiful, and relaxing place to call home.

Finding the right city to call home in Spain depends heavily on personal priorities, values, and lifestyle preferences. And with these extra options, you’re well on your way to finding the right place for you.

Need help relocating to Spain? Our experts specialize in assisting clients through every step of the relocation process, from residency to citizenship. We’ve helped countless expats establish successful, comfortable new lives throughout Spain. If you’re curious about your options or have any questions, contact us to schedule a free consultation call with us today. We look forward to helping you discover your ideal Spanish home.