Beyond the Nomad Hubs: A Curated Guide to Spain's Best Towns
We've grouped these towns by vibe, making it easy for you to find the perfect escape, whether you're craving medieval history, a coastal breeze, or something utterly unique.
Medieval Masterpieces & Historic Hideaways
Step back in time in these perfectly preserved towns, where cobblestone streets and ancient castles tell stories of a bygone era. Ideal for the nomad who loves history, architecture, and quiet contemplation.
1. Besalú, Catalonia
Vibe: A fairytale medieval town an hour north of Girona.
Don't Miss: Walking across the iconic 12th-century Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià River. Explore the Monasterio de San Pedro and the old Jewish quarter.
Nomad's Note: An easy and impressive day trip from Girona or the Costa Brava. Perfect for content creation or simply unplugging for a day.
2. Albarracín, Aragon
Vibe: A stunning, history-drenched village nestled in the hills of eastern Spain, often called the most beautiful village in the country.
Don't Miss: Hiking in the protected pine forests of Rodenoth to see prehistoric rock art, and wandering the ancient city walls.
Nomad's Note: This is a true hidden gem. It’s a place to disconnect from work and reconnect with nature and history. Visit in September for the Santa Maria Festival when the town comes alive.
3. Frías, Castile and León
Vibe: A gorgeous town perched on a hill, dominated by the Castle of the Dukes of Frias.
Don't Miss: The Puente de Frias (bridge) and the incredible views from the Casas Colgadas (hanging houses).
Nomad's Note: If your travels take you near Bilbao or Burgos, Frias is a must-see detour that feels a world away from modern life.
4. Vejer de la Frontera, Andalusia
Vibe: Classic Andalusian whitewashed hilltop town (pueblo blanco).
Don't Miss: Getting lost in the maze-like streets, visiting the Castle Vejer, and snapping a photo at the picturesque Arco de la Puerta Cerrada.
Nomad's Note: Easily accessible from Cádiz, and a great alternative to the more crowded towns. It offers a perfect blend of history, charm, and great food.
Stunning Seaside & Coastal Gems
From the rugged north coast to the sunny Mediterranean, these towns offer fresh seafood, ocean views, and a more relaxed pace of life. Perfect for a summer escape or a base for coastal exploration.
5. Cadaqués, Catalonia
Vibe: An artistic and beautiful coastal town, famously frequented by Salvador Dalí.
Don't Miss: The Dalí Museum-House in nearby Portlligat and hiking in the wild Cap de Creus National Park.
Nomad's Note: This is a magnet for creatives. The light and landscape are inspiring, but be prepared for winding roads to get there. It’s worth every curve.
6. Llastres, Asturias
Vibe: A picturesque fishing village cascading down a cliffside on Spain's dramatic north coast.
Don't Miss: The incredible views from Mirador de San Roque and enjoying the freshest seafood from the Bay of Biscay at a local spot like Eutimio.
Nomad's Note: The north coast (Green Spain) is a fantastic, less-traveled region for nomads seeking cooler summers and lush landscapes.
7. Cudillero, Asturias
Vibe: An incredibly colorful fishing village built in a natural amphitheater around its harbor.
Don't Miss: Strolling the promenade, exploring the dramatic coastline at Cabo Vidio, and relaxing at the stunning Playa del Silencio (Silence Beach).
Nomad's Note: The seafood here is guaranteed to be top-notch. It’s a visual feast and a perfect stop on a road trip along the Asturian coast.
8. Lekeitio, Basque Country
Vibe: A charming Basque seaside town with two great beaches and a bustling harbor.
Don't Miss: Trying a kalimotxo (red wine and coke – a local staple) at a tapas bar like Meson Arropain.
Nomad's Note: Just over an hour from the nomad-friendly city of Bilbao, Lekeitio offers an authentic taste of Basque coastal life without the crowds of San Sebastián.
9. Soller, Mallorca
Vibe: A traditional and sophisticated town nestled in a valley between mountains and the sea.
Don't Miss: Seeing Picasso’s ceramics at the train station and exploring the hidden chapel of SA Capelleta.
Nomad's Note: While Mallorca can be touristy, Soller feels like a proper town. It makes a great, slightly more upscale base for exploring the island's incredible Serra de Tramuntana region.
10. Frigiliana, Andalusia
Vibe: A gorgeous whitewashed village near the coast with a distinctly Greek feel.
Don't Miss: Wandering the steep, winding, and beautifully tiled streets.
Nomad's Note: Only 8km from the coast near Nerja, it’s quieter and more authentic than the seaside resorts. A fantastic spot for photographers and those seeking tranquility.
11. Combarro, Galicia
Vibe: A tiny, laid-back fishing village on the northwest coast known for its unique stone granaries (hórreos).
Don't Miss: Seeing the historic fishermen's huts built over the water and feasting on fresh shellfish at O Bocoi.
Nomad's Note: Galicia offers a completely different side of Spain—Celtic roots, moody weather, and amazing food. Combarro is a perfect introduction.
Unique & Unforgettable Towns
These towns defy easy categorization. From villages built under rocks to those split by massive gorges, they offer a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
12. Ronda, Andalusia
Vibe: A spectacular town perched atop a deep gorge, connected by one of Spain's most famous bridges, the Puente Nuevo.
Don't Miss: The jaw-dropping views from and of the bridge.
Nomad's Note: While popular, Ronda is unmissable. It’s an easy day or overnight trip from Malaga, making it a perfect excursion while based on the Costa del Sol. Epic for drone footage (check local regulations!).
13. Setenil de las Bodegas, Andalusia
Vibe: One of Spain's most unique towns, where streets and houses are built directly into and under the overhang of a massive rock cliff.
Don't Miss: Having a coffee or tapas at a bar built into the rock.
Nomad's Note: Just a 30-minute drive from Ronda, you can easily visit both in one day. The experience of walking down a street with a giant rock for a roof is unforgettable.
14. Alcala del Jucar, Castile-La Mancha
Vibe: A striking town with cave houses carved into a cliffside overlooking the River Jucar.
Don't Miss: Visiting the Castillo de Alcala del Jucar and having a drink at a bar set inside one of the caves.
Nomad's Note: This is off-the-beaten-path Spain at its best. A great stop for those road-tripping through the interior of the country.
15. Montefrio, Andalusia
Vibe: A dramatic town in the province of Granada, topped by the ruins of a Moorish castle.
Don't Miss: The view from the Mirador National Geographic, a viewpoint so spectacular it was recognized by the magazine itself.
Nomad's Note: For castle lovers and photographers, this town is a must. It’s a great example of Andalusia's rich Moorish history.
16. Campillo de Dueñas, Aragon
Vibe: A small village that serves as the gateway to an epic filming location.
Don't Miss: The incredible Castle of Zafra, located just outside of town. It was famously featured as the 'Tower of Joy' in Game of Thrones.
Nomad's Note: A pilgrimage site for GoT fans. It’s a perfect pitstop when driving between Valencia and Zaragoza.
17. La Vilella Baixa, Catalonia
Vibe: A tiny, historic village in the prestigious Priorat wine region.
Don't Miss: The views of the ancient houses clinging to the hillside.
Nomad's Note: Perfect for a true digital detox. Don't come here expecting a coworking space; come here for world-class wine and total immersion in Catalan country life. It's less than a 2-hour drive from Barcelona.
18. Calaceite, Aragon
Vibe: A sleepy, charming town with a grand baroque church.
Don't Miss: The museum dedicated to local archaeologist Don Joan Cabre.
Nomad's Note: This is the place to go when you want to see rural Spain without any filter. It has a handful of quaint restaurants and offers a slow, authentic pace of life.