Go over Barcelona! These 4 underrated Spanish cities are rising in popularity

The home base of world -famous sights such as La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, not to mention the privileged location by the sea directly on the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is the number one destination in Spain.

Despite his unmistakable charm, it is no secret that Barcelona is now fighting a non-ZO-stainless battle: out of handSo much so that the locals took matters into their own hands.

Let’s just put it this way: if you’re lucky, you could do that only Become spraying with water while dining in the Gothic district of Alfresco, or walk past an unfriendly, anti-tourist graffiti or two.

Maybe not surprising, this one 4 less well -known Spanish cities Are now central now that Barcelona shuns visitors.

According to the Latest Edreams reportEurope’s leading travel agency, is interested in them streamed This summer, while the Catalan capital took a rear seat:

A Coruña

With an increase in visitors of 11% this summer, a Coruña is currently the Fourth fastest growing destination in Spain. Although it is in the distant northwest of Spain, far away from Barcelona, ​​tourists are attracted by the perfect old city, the old heritage and postcard beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.

The most distinctive monument of the city is the tower of Hercules, A Roman Roman LighthouseLettered on the tip of a rocky peninsula that is hugged by Azure Zee-on is Lapas one of the many white sandy beaches that can be found in and around the city.

Waiting in the middle for the discovery, in the middle, narrow, paved alleys flanked by colorful buildings and converging around Plaza de María PitaAn elegant Hoofdplein dominated by a town hall inspired by Beaux doctor. Stay on the way to the waterfront and you reach Riazor:

An elongated strip of sand supported by relaxed tapas spotsluxury hotels and beach bars, that’s it the Place to socialize and gap on local food. Oh, and in case you wonder, it is still usually sunny and a pleasant 73 ° F in a Coruña in the fall.

Santander

You will start to notice a trend from now on. With the Mediterranean coast that gets more busy by the minute, it is time for North Spain to steal the spotlights, and if there was ever a flagship city for the region, that is certainly Santander.

Called ‘Pearl of the North‘, Because of the picturesque bayside location, abundance of beaches and rich maritime culture, it is home to the home Palacio de la MagdalenaA picturesque palace that occupies a peninsula, the command view of the city, a historic lighthouse of the cliff (El Faro de Cabo mayor), and a rising cathedral:

Santander -Cathedral is one of the most emblematic monuments in the north, because of his Medieval origin and fort -like design (To be honest, it looks more like a castle than on a church, appropriate), and even better, it’s free to visit! Have we not mentioned long waiting lines, such as in Barcelona’s Sagrada Família?

However, beautiful buildings are not the only reason why Santander recently posted a growth of 13%: from the soft, golden sand Playa del Sardineroto the more remote Playa de Mataleñas And Playa de los MolinucosIt leaves nothing to be desired as a beach outing in high season.

Bilbao

Land: Another North Spanish gem made the cut, except that you might want to make a bookmark of this one. From this year on, Americans were able to fly non -stop to Bilbao, the cultural heart and the largest city in the Basque Country, directly from Newark (EWR).

There are many reasons why Bilbao would race for other Spanish destinations to claim second place, with a growth of 18%, but the only thing that comes to mind when we think about El Botxo– That’s what basques call it – is being Combination of lively city life and old world Allure.

It is one of the most modern and industrial cities in Spain, and it is no wonder that it claims the Guggenheim Museum, a contemporary art installation covered by Titanium overlooking the rapidly flowing Nervión River, but on the other hand, are Casco Viejo Tells fascinating stories about Olde’s Spain.

We are talking about maze -like streets, age -old lean buildings, pintxo Bars that serve $ 3 beerand medieval squares-on that comment you might want to look at the 14th-century Iglesia de San AntónThe oldest church in Bilbao and the most important feature on the coat of arms of the city.

Oviedo

With a growth of 25%, Oviedo, the cultural heart of a criminal underrated Asturia, a mountainous region in the north of Spain, the Kroon officially pulls as the fastest growing destination of the Iberian country.

Unlike a Coruña or Santander, WHIch can double as Beach Getaways, the most important attraction is the ancient history: a UNESCO-Genotated City, it is best known for its pre-Roman monuments, in particular Santa María del Naranco, became a graceful palace that goes back to the 9th century.

In the heart of the old city, a monumental cathedral is, his holy room (or Cámara Santa) Some houses most Critical Christian relics. Also remarkable Plaza del FontánA vibrant public square With market stalls and cafés.

Oviedo is also known for its green spaces, walkable streets and quiet atmosphere: Wishing through the city feels like a refreshing escape compared to the hustle and bustle of Madrid and Barcelona.

Finally the Ciderscène unparalleledWith Calle Gascona with covered Sidrerías (cider houses) for every turn.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior leader at Travel Off Path, has more than 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving stories from Paris!), And a talent for converting the images-path experiences into informative stories with which you can pack your bags.