Spain’ s battle against overtourism has been grabbing attention for decades, as its well-loved cities and towns have found themselves grappling with an overwhelming number of tourists. overwhelming local communities .
In the previous year, residents of Barcelona had to resort to using water guns To discourage disruptive visitors, while in Madrid residents demonstrated against escalating rental costs, with many blaming the issue on excessive tourism.
Countless tourism rules have been implemented to alleviate pressure on locals, encompassing limitations on public alcohol consumption, revelry, and the utilization of rental services such as Airbnb .
Recently, residents of Mallorca penned an open letter to visitors, pleading with them not to visit the island due to their prediction of 'the worst summer in the history of Mallorca'.
Even with requests for a reduction in tourism in highly frequented destinations, certain parts of Spain still maintain a more secluded character.
If your aim is to steer clear of large groups and the impatient looks from weary residents this summer, has compiled a list of some less-explored spots to check out alternatively.
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Cadiz
Frequently overshadowed by its neighboring city, Seville, Cadiz Is a 3,000-year-old coastal treasure and among the eldest municipalities in Western Europe.
The charming lanes are rich in history, bordered by sunny squares, ancient churches, and structures covered in white plaster reflecting its seafaring heritage.
In addition to its rich history, Cadiz features stunning golden beaches, a scenic waterfront promenade, and some of Spain’s finest seafood offerings. Tourists can enjoy lounging under the sun at La Caleta Beach, capture sweeping vistas from Tavira Tower, or wander through the charming narrow lanes of the ancient district.
Even with all it provides, it stays much less bustling compared to Spain’s more renowned urban centers.
’s Sama Ansari Pour characterized Cadiz as 'a stroll through history' ', where each turn provides a window into its history.
“If you tend to avoid large gatherings,” she notes, “this hidden treasure might just be ideal for you.”
Merida
Located in the picturesque area of Extremadura, Mérida may lack beaches or a shoreline, yet it compensates with its deep historical heritage.
Established by the Romans during the 1st century BC, this location stands as one of Spain’s key archaeological sites.
Being the capital of Roman Spain, this city boasts some of the most remarkable remains in Europe, such as the Roman Amphitheater and the Temple of Diana.
Tourists can also explore the Roman Bridge, notable for being one of the longest structures constructed by the Romans and spanning across the Guadiana River.
Situated in one of the most overlooked and sparsely populated areas of Spain, this destination is ideal for individuals seeking solitude away from throngs of tourists. Additionally, Extremadura provides up to £12.6k annually to digital nomads looking to establish it as their homebase.
Logrono
Situated at the center of Spain's renowned La Rioja region, Logroño is often praised as one of Spain’s lesser-known treasures. Although it doesn’t draw the same number of tourists as many well-known destinations, it is deemed essential for aficionados of cuisine and wines.
Famous for its tapas culture, travelers can move from one bar to another trying various pintxos and regional specialties. Additionally, this place serves as the entry point to Spain’s renowned wine area, La Rioja, allowing tourists to explore wineries and sample premium vintages.
The city is also home to medieval streets and historical sites such as the Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda, known for its paired Baroque spires and detailed internal artistry.
Cuenca
Situated in the heart of Spain, only a couple of hours' drive from Madrid, Cuenca is famous for its casas colgadas—houses built into the cliff face overlooking a canyon.
The historic medieval town, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, frequently gets less attention compared to bigger urban centers nearby, typically attracting tourists who visit for just the day from Madrid.
The town's most recognizable landmarks, the Casas Colgadas, are ingeniously constructed within the cliff face and dramatically hang over the Huécar River canyon.
Tracing their origins to the 15th century, several of these dwellings have transformed into museums for public exploration. Visitors may marvel at both the sight of these homes and the distinctive architectural style of the city when standing upon the San Pablo Bridge.
Past the residences, guests can wander through Cuneca’s twisting medieval lanes, trek alongside the canyon paths, or head to the adjacent Serrania de Cuenca Natural Park.
Estepona
This delightful seaside town, nestled at the fringe of Costa del Sol, stays an undiscovered treasure even though it's part of one of Spain’s most frequented areas.
’s Sophie-May Williams traveled to the 'modest town' previously. She observed that although 12 million international tourists visited the Andalusian region in 2023, merely 253,376 (2%) of them made their way to Estepona.
Tourists can meander through its charming lanes, where lime-washed homes are decorated with bright blossoms, such as the vivid bougainvillea that cloaks the village.
At the center of Estepona lies Plaza de las Flores, an animated square encircled by cafés frequented by visitors seeking their midday meal. The plaza hosts four primary tapas bars, and as Sophie mentions, 'you can choose any one you like.'
For those who adore beaches, Estepona’s shoreline provides extensive stretches of sand, such as the well-loved Playa de la Rada. You can unwind beside the pristine waters or have a beverage at one of the numerous seaside pubs here.
If you're looking for an adventure, Estepona offers great hiking trails, such as the picturesque route leading to the nearby Sierra Bermeja mountains.
Have you got a tale to tell?
Reach out via email LifestyleTeam@.co.uk .
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