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Cities to visit in Spain UK Travellers Choosing in 2026!

Barcelona and Madrid have always been the top destinations in Spain. But there’s a lot more. There are a lot of beautiful, lesser-known cities to visit in Spain, and which UK travelers are choosing for their 2026 travel. These days, travelers are looking beyond and seeking trips full of cultural experiences.

Here we have compiled a few hidden cities in Spain, which are quietly becoming favourites among UK travelers, and show them a different side of Spain. Here are the Spanish cities UK tourists are increasingly choosing in 2026 — and why.

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Spanish cities to visit in 2026!

1. Valencia: Coastal Life Without the Chaos

Valencia has long lived in the shadow of Barcelona and is one of the least known cities to visit in Spain. Located on the eastern coast of Spain, Valencia combines beach life, historic architecture, and modern design.

UK tourists are drawn to Valencia for its relaxed surroundings. The city is walkable, well-connected by public transport, and far less crowded even during peak travel months. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences offers a striking contrast to the historic old town.

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and when it comes to dining, it is noticeably more affordable than in Barcelona. For UK tourists seeking culture and coastal living without the crowds, Valencia is becoming a top alternative.

Best Time to Visit Valencia

  • March to May and September to October are ideal
  • Warm weather, pleasant evenings, and fewer tourists
  • March also brings Las Fallas, a visually spectacular local festival

When to Avoid Crowds

  • July and August can feel busy and hot
  • Weekends during major festivals attract domestic tourism

2. Seville: Spain at Its Most Expressive

Seville Spain at Its Most Expressive

If you are looking for lesser-known Spanish destinations, then Seville is the one. Seville isn’t new, but it’s experiencing renewed interest in 2026 as travellers search for emotional depth in their journeys. This is a city where Spain’s traditions feel alive — from flamenco performances to the echo of church bells across historic plazas.

UK tourists often call Seville “authentically Spanish.” The city’s landmarks — the Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and Plaza de España — are breathtaking. Not only this, but the late dinners, shaded courtyards, and streets buzzing with conversation make it one of the cities to visit in Spain.

To avoid the intense summer heat, travellers often plan to visit in spring or autumn. If you are planning a cultural trip, then this is the one city you can add to your tour.

Best Time to Visit Seville

  • March to May and October to early November
  • Spring brings festivals and comfortable walking weather

When to Avoid Crowds

  • Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril are stunning but extremely busy
  • Peak summer (July–August) due to intense heat

3. Bilbao: Culture, Cuisine, and Calm

Bilbao offers a completely different travel experience to UK travelers looking for unique Cities to visit in Spain. The city boasts the world-famous Guggenheim Museum and is a hub of architecture and contemporary art. But wait, before imagining your holiday in any of these beautiful cities, make sure to know about the Spain visa appointment and APPLY.

UK travellers choose this one of the beautiful Places to visit in Spain for its mild weather and welcoming vibes, along with delicious food. Must try, Pintxos — small, flavour-packed bites — turn evenings into culinary adventures.

Beaches, coastal villages, and green landscapes are all in this city, making it ideal for UK travelers planning a trip to Spain in 2026.

Best Time to Visit Bilbao

  • May to June and September
  • Comfortable temperatures and fewer rain showers

When to Avoid Crowds

  • Summer weekends near the Guggenheim Museum
  • Local festivals can fill accommodation quickly

4. Málaga: More Than a Gateway to the Costa del Sol

Málaga More Than a Gateway to the Costa del Sol

Beach lover and wants to tick off the most memorable beach vacation ever? Then Málaga is for you. Once seen primarily as an arrival point for beach holidays, Málaga has redefined itself. In 2026, UK travellers are increasingly preferring to stay in the city rather than passing through it and heading to the old cities.

Málaga offers a rare mix of history, art, and coastal relaxation. The Alcazaba fortress and the Picasso Museum are gems to explore. The waterfront is lively but not overwhelming, and the old town retains a strong local feel.

If you are thinking of transport, then it is no longer a headache, because the transport is excellent and you can enjoy your day trips well here.

Best Time to Visit Málaga

  • April to June and September to October
  • Warm sea, pleasant evenings, fewer cruise crowds

When to Avoid Crowds

  • August, when both tourists and locals holiday
  • Long weekends around national holidays

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5. Zaragoza: Spain’s Overlooked Cultural Crossroads

Zaragoza often surprises first-time visitors, and if you are planning a trip to Spain in 2026, then make sure to add this one. Located between Madrid and Barcelona, it’s frequently passed over — yet those who stop are rewarded with a city rich in history and tradition.

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar dominates the skyline and plays a central role in Spanish religious culture. Beyond the landmarks, Zaragoza offers wide riverfront promenades, Moorish architecture, and a strong local identity.

If you are choosing cities to visit in Spain, then add Zaragoza — to experience Spain without tourism pressure.

Best Time to Visit Zaragoza

  • April to June and September to October
  • Mild weather and cultural events

When to Avoid Crowds

  • During Fiestas del Pilar (October)
  • Bank holidays with domestic tourism

6. Granada: History, Hills, and Human Scale

Granada History, Hills, and Human Scale

The last among these unexplored cities to visit in Spain is Granada. This city continues to capture the imagination of British travellers who value history and atmosphere over luxury and shopping. Undoubtedly, the Alhambra is the biggest reason to visit, but the city’s has beauty far beyond.

Set against the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada has a walkable centre and pleasant neighbourhoods that feel intimate and lived-in. The best part is the Tapas culture, which gives a unique vibe and joy.

In 2026, UK travellers are increasingly pairing Granada with neighbourhood towns for their day trips. And yes, whether you are planning a weekly trip or staying there for a month, don’t forget to get your BLS Spain visa appointment booked on time.

Best Time to Visit Granada

  • April to June and September to October
  • Pleasant temperatures and clear mountain views

When to Avoid Crowds

  • Summer afternoons
  • Peak Alhambra ticket times (early booking essential)

Is English Widely Spoken in these cities in Spain?

Often, UK travelers ask about the language spoken in the cities of Spain. English is spoken across Spain, and UK travellers generally manage well — especially in these lesser-known cities of Spain discussed in this Spain travel guide.

  • In Valencia and Málaga, English is commonly spoken in hotels, tourist attractions, restaurants, and transport hubs. Staff in city centres are used to welcoming international visitors from the UK, and communication has never been an issue. So, you can easily order food, ask for directions, or check into accommodation, without any worry.
  • In Seville and Granada, English is widely understood in tourist areas. Locals may not speak fluent English, yet they are welcoming and willing to help the tourists. Being here, you can try translation apps to get help and make your tour easy.
  • In Bilbao and Zaragoza, as compared to coastal cities, English is less spoken. Still, these cities are safe and well-organised, making travelers comfortable even without strong language support.

*** Overall, if you are fond of any of these cities to visit in Spain, then you don’t have to worry about the language and can enjoy these cities. Simply learn a few basic phrases — greetings and polite expressions — enhancing the travel experience.

What to Pack for trip to Spain in 2026?

Worried about what to pack? This Spain travel guide 2026 helps you in planning. Packing for Spain depends heavily on season, city, and travel style, but most UK tourists prefer planning beyond the weather forecast.

Lightweight, breathable clothing is perfect for spring and summer, especially in cities like Seville, Málaga, and Granada. During warmer months, wearing loose cotton or linen outfits helps. For cooler seasons, carrying layers is important.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Spanish cities are best explored on foot, and historic centres have those cobbled streets. Even coastal cities demand walking, so don’t forget to take shoes.

For year-round, a light jacket or jumper is useful. Evenings can feel coolerin northern cities like Bilbao or during spring and autumn nights.

When visiting churches or historic religious sites, it is advisable to wear modest clothes. You have to carry a scarf or shawl to avoid any issues.

A cross-body bag or backpack is advisable for public transport. Spain is generally safe, but still, pickpocketing can happen in crowded spots.

Travel document: Last but not least are the travel documents, including Spain visa from UK, a passport, insurance, etc. Keep these documents handy and safe.

Other useful items include:

  • A reusable water bottle
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses,
  • A universal power adapter for UK electronics
  • A small day bag for daily sightseeing
  • Digital or printed travel documents stored securely

*** Picked any of these cities to visit in Spain in 2026? Then, packing thoughtfully is the key. This helps travellers in getting prepared — allowing them to focus on enjoying Spain rather than adjusting to it.

Planning Spain Travel in 2026: Summary!

To sum it up, the listed ones are some of the lesser-known yet beautiful cities to visit in Spain in 2026. Spain has always been one of the most rewarding vacation places for UK tourists, but now people seek and explore something new.

If you are planning a trip to Spain in 2026, then make sure to look beyond Barcelona and Madrid, and see the postcard side of Spain. And once your travel itinerary is set, make sure your Spain visa from UK and other travel documents are planned early to match your chosen season.

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