Top 19 Regions and Islands in Spain Ranked from Best to Worst

Many people who are new to Spain and are unsure of what to visit want to know about the best cities in Spain. However, if you prefer not to spend all your time on a train connecting Spain’s distant cities, it’s advisable to focus on a single region and explore it in depth.

Moreover, not all Spanish regions are created equal. Some should definitely be at the top of your travel list, while others might be less enticing. There is little reason to visit the first two places on this list unless you’re interested in seeing what a European enclave looks like in Africa. Consequently, while the next couple of places aren’t terrible, they can be rather unexciting, especially when compared to the more impressive regions nearby. If you prefer a more authentic experience, you might find these regions fitting, as they still offer traditional Spanish cuisine, architecture, and the varied landscapes that make Spain famous. Similarly, these less-trafficked areas can be ideal if you prefer to avoid other tourists.

Following the previously mentioned regions, other places on this list are certainly worthy of a visit as they represent a broad spectrum of what Spain has to offer its visitors.

2. Melilla

Melilla and Ceuta are both Spanish enclaves in North Africa and serve as ports to catch a ferry from mainland Spain to Morocco. However, you may find a trip to Tangier in Morocco more rewarding.

Melilla is even less appealing than Ceuta, as the crossing over the Mediterranean between here and mainland Spain is significantly longer.

Best for: Gaining perspective on Spain’s complex stance regarding Gibraltar—Spain can claim enclaves in Africa while the UK has none in Iberia.

Alternatively… Travel to Morocco from Tarifa in Andalusia to Tangier.

3. Ceuta

While a better option than Melilla, it is nevertheless advisable to consider visiting Tangiers instead.

Best for: Understanding the Gibraltar connection from a unique perspective.

Alternatively… Travel from Andalusia to Morocco.

4. Aragon

Aragon is nestled between Madrid, Barcelona, and the Basque Country delights, known for the Pyrenees, although much of the best skiing is found in France.

Best for: A pleasant lunch break when traveling from Madrid to Barcelona.

Alternatively… Visit La Rioja and the Basque Country, both in proximity and rich in experiences.

5. Cantabria

Home to the striking Picos de Europa mountain range, which partially lies in Cantabria, this region is also accessible from Asturias.

Best for: Lush greenery, fresh seafood, and living away from bustling tourist hotspots.

Alternatively… Consider both Galicia and Asturias for equally green landscapes that are still relatively tourist-free.

6. Murcia

With lovely weather great for beach visits, the city of Murcia boasts a notable cathedral, a common feature across many Spanish cities. Additionally, Cartagena features impressive Roman ruins.

Best for: Sun-kissed beaches and ancient Roman history.

Alternatively… Catalonia also offers both beach experiences and Roman history, particularly in the city of Tarragona.

7. Navarra (Navarre)

Famed for the Running of the Bulls, Pamplona is increasingly recognized for its culinary offerings, much like nearby San Sebastian and Logroño.

Navarra is known for wine production, yet the regions adjacent to it, La Rioja and the Basque Country, offer greater accessibility and experiences for visitors.

Best for: Quality wine and lively bull runs.

Alternatively… Consider La Rioja for a more prominent wine experience.

8. Canary Islands

Located off the coast of Africa, the Canary Islands boast a warm climate, perfect for beach lovers. However, their distance from mainland Spain may pose challenges for those wanting to explore other locales during their visit.

Best for: Pristine beaches and year-round warm weather.

Alternatively… Consider the Balearic Islands or Andalusia for similar beach experiences without the extra travel.

9. Balearic Islands

Being closer to mainland Spain than the Canary Islands makes the Balearic Islands a more affordable option, allowing for visits to other Spanish cities during your trip. However, the main allure remains the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Best for: Seaside relaxation and entertaining nightlife, with potentially cheaper flights than to the Canary Islands.

Alternatively… Look to the Canary Islands or Andalusia for similar offerings with a different vibe.

10. Extremadura

Often overlooked by tourists, Extremadura features the stunning city of Cáceres and the best Roman ruins found in Merida.

Best for: Remarkable Roman ruins.

Alternatively… Catalonia also boasts Roman ruins, although they may not be as grand as those in Merida and there’s much more to discover

11. Valencia

Valencia boasts its own autonomous community, drawing visitors with its beautiful beaches and as the birthplace of the beloved paella dish.

Best for: Availing authentic paella and enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Alternatively… Delicious paella can be found throughout Spain, including in Catalonia (if you know where to look).

12. La Rioja

La Rioja is renowned for producing some of Spain’s best wines. The captivating sight of clouds over the hills is essential to the wine production process unique to this region.

Best for: Tasting exceptional wines paired with delicious tapas.

Alternatively… The Basque Country is famous for its tapas, although it may be more expensive.

13. Asturias

Enjoy drinking cider like only the Asturians can, and discover why the Spanish often say “Asturias is Spain; the rest is just conquered.” Oviedo, the region’s capital, features Bulevar de Sidra (Cider Boulevard) which is a popular destination for both tapas and cider lovers.

Best for: Experiencing the unique Asturian cuisine and delightful cider.

Alternatively… While cider exists in the Basque Country as well, it doesn’t quite compare to Asturian offerings.

14. Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla-La Mancha, vast and sparsely populated, is home to three notable cities worth visiting.

• Toledo stands out as the most popular day trip from Madrid, known for its rich Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage.
• Consuegra offers a classic view of windmills made famous by Cervantes’ Don Quijote, easily accessible from Toledo.
• Cuenca, on the high-speed AVE train line, is known for its casas colgantes, or hanging houses.

Best for: Experiencing the timeless stories of castles and knights.

Alternatively… Explore Castilla y León for a similar historical allure.

15. Castilla y Leon

Explore the roots of the Spanish language and civilization in Castilla y León.

• Leon is a fantastic city for tapas, often serving complimentary dishes with drinks.
• Segovia is famous for its ancient Roman aqueduct and picturesque castle.
• Salamanca boasts the most beautiful main square (Plaza Mayor) in all of Spain.

Best for: Discovering walled cities, castles, and historical churches.

Alternatively… Include Castilla-La Mancha in your travels for additional historic experiences.

16. Catalonia

Catalonia’s major attraction is undoubtedly Barcelona, which alone elevates the region above many others.

However, the region also features Roman ruins in Tarragona, the historic walled city of Girona, and the Salvador Dali Museum in Figueres.

Best for: Extensive exploration of Barcelona.

Alternatively… Madrid is another major Spanish city that provides excellent day-trip opportunities.

17. Basque Country

San Sebastian is renowned as one of Spain’s premier cities for tapas and is also home to the finest city beach in the country.

Bilbao features the Guggenheim Museum, known more for its stunning architecture than its featured exhibits—though those are exceptional as well.

Best for: Exceptional cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and rich landscapes, plus the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

Alternatively… Only Madrid and Catalonia can rival the cosmopolitan culture offered in the Basque Country, albeit with a different concentration.

18. Madrid

The capital city of Spain, Madrid is a vibrant metropolis enriched with history and culture. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez lies within easy reach, adding to its appeal.

Best for: A well-rounded experience of culture, delectable food, wine, and a plethora of museums.

Alternatively… For those seeking alternative urban experiences, Barcelona is the next logical choice.

19. Galicia

While Catalonia may assert its uniqueness, Galicia truly stands apart. Its stunning old town in Santiago de Compostela is arguably the most beautiful in the country, centered around a magnificent 12th-century Gothic cathedral.

Moreover, A Coruña features the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world, accompanied by a thriving tapas scene.

Galicia is not only about culture; it also hosts breathtaking beaches such as the Cíes Islands and the rejuvenating hot springs of Ourense.

Best for: A lush landscape, exquisite seafood, and historical sites that are among the oldest in Europe.

Alternatively… Asturias also provides stunning greenery and beautiful vistas.

20. Andalusia

Andalusia is worth visiting for many reasons, particularly its two major cities: Seville and Granada

Seville exemplifies the quintessential Spanish city, adorned with flamenco performances, traditional bullfighting, and one of the world’s grandest cathedrals.

Granada offers delightful tapas, often served free with drinks, encouraging a lively culture of socializing. The Alhambra, an incredible Moorish fortress, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.

Moreover, don’t miss visiting Cordoba for the stunning Mezquita-Catedral and Cadiz known for its fried fish. Finally, explore the enchanting pueblos blancos, the iconic white villages scattered across the scenic Andalusian countryside, such as the charming town of Ronda.

Best for: A comprehensive experience of Spain, except for rolling green hills.

Alternatively… For those searching for the opposite ambiance, Galicia presents an enticing option.