Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Spain (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step when considering a move to Spain. It allows you to experience the country's diverse cultures, climates, and communities firsthand, helping you make an informed decision about where to settle. By exploring different regions, you can determine which one aligns best with your lifestyle, preferences, and needs.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Madrid, then head to Valencia, and finally explore the Andalusian cities of Granada and Málaga. For a 20-day trip, begin in Madrid, then visit Bilbao and the Basque Country, followed by Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Málaga, and conclude in the Canary Islands. These itineraries blend vibrant cities with laid-back towns, offering a comprehensive taste of Spanish life.

Madrid

Madrid, Spain's capital, is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 3 million. It offers a high quality of life, numerous job opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene. Expats and digital nomads appreciate its central location, excellent public transportation, and lower compared to other major European cities. Madrid is also a paradise for food lovers, with a diverse range of restaurants and tapas bars.

Travel Tip: Visit the Mercado de San Miguel, a famous covered market where you can sample a variety of traditional Spanish tapas.

Bilbao and the Basque Country

Bilbao and its surrounding Basque Country offer a unique blend of Spanish and Basque cultures. Known for their exceptional cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and distinct language, towns like San Sebastián, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Getxo are popular among expats seeking a high quality of life. The region boasts a strong economy, stunning beaches, and lush mountains, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, a modern and contemporary art museum designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a thriving city known for its unique architecture, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean climate. With a population of over 1.6 million, it offers a dynamic lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Barcelona is popular among digital nomads due to its numerous co-working spaces and startup ecosystem.

Travel Tip: Explore Antoni Gaudí's iconic Park Güell, offering stunning views of the city and showcasing the architect's distinctive style.

Valencia

Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is a charming coastal city known for its paella, oranges, and the City of Arts and Sciences. With a lower cost of living than Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia offers a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a rich history. Its mild climate and friendly locals make it an attractive choice for expats and retirees.

Travel Tip: Visit the Central Market of Valencia, one of the oldest and largest markets in Europe, offering a wide variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.

Granada

Granada, located in the Andalusian region, is a captivating city known for its rich Moorish history and the stunning Alhambra complex. With a population of around 230,000, Granada offers a more laid-back lifestyle, affordable cost of living, and proximity to both the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Mediterranean coast. The city is popular among students, artists, and digital nomads.

Travel Tip: Explore the Alhambra, a breathtaking palace and fortress complex that showcases the region's Moorish history and architectural beauty.

Málaga

Málaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, is a vibrant coastal city in the Andalusian region. With a population of around 570,000, it offers a mix of modern amenities and historical charm. Known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and high quality of life, Málaga is a popular choice among expats seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle. The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene.

Travel Tip: Visit the Picasso Museum Málaga, housing an impressive collection of the artist's works and offering insight into his life and career.

The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, an archipelago located off the coast of Africa, offer a unique lifestyle with a subtropical climate, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches. Islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote are popular among expats and digital nomads seeking a relaxed pace of life, outdoor activities, and a lower cost of living. Popular towns include Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Arrecife.

Travel Tip: Explore the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, a stunning volcanic landscape with otherworldly rock formations and lava fields.