10 Hidden Gems in Spain for Backpackers in 2026

1. Albarracín, Aragon: A Medieval Fairy Tale

Address: Albarracín, Teruel, Aragon

Hours: Best explored during daylight; many attractions close by 6 PM.

Tucked away in the rugged mountains of Aragon, Albarracín is one of those places that makes you question whether you’ve accidentally stepped into a storybook. This tiny village, with its winding cobblestone streets and ochre-hued buildings, is often called the “most beautiful village in Spain”—and for good reason. The entire town is a living museum, its medieval walls and towers standing proudly against the backdrop of the Sierra de Albarracín.

I first visited Albarracín on a whim during a road trip through Aragon. I remember rounding a bend in the road and gasping as the village came into view, clinging to the side of a cliff like something out of a fantasy novel. The town’s signature red-painted houses, a tradition dating back to the Moors, glow under the golden light of sunset. It’s the kind of place where you can wander for hours without seeing another tourist, getting lost in the labyrinth of alleys that lead to hidden plazas and crumbling stone arches.

What to Do:

• Explore the Castle and Walls: The remains of Albarracín’s 10th-century castle offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The walk along the ancient walls is a must, especially at sunrise when the mist clings to the valleys below.
• Visit the Museum of Albarracín: A small but fascinating museum that delves into the town’s history, from its Islamic roots to its Christian reconquest.
• Hike in the Sierra de Albarracín: The nearby mountains are a paradise for hikers, with trails leading to hidden waterfalls and limestone formations. The Ruta de los Puentes (Route of the Bridges) is a favorite, taking you over medieval stone bridges and through lush forests.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante El Rincón del Chorro: A cozy spot serving hearty Aragonese dishes like ternasco (roast lamb) and migas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo). The portions are generous, and the prices are backpacker-friendly (think €10-15 for a full meal).
• Café Sabina: A charming café with a terrace overlooking the valley. Their homemade pastries and coffee are the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal El Paso: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a warm, family-run atmosphere. Dorm beds start at €18 per night.
• Camping Albarracín: For those who prefer sleeping under the stars, this campsite is just a short walk from the village and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Albarracín is one of those rare places where history feels alive. Unlike more touristy medieval towns, it hasn’t been sanitized for visitors. The streets are quiet, the locals are welcoming, and the sense of stepping back in time is palpable. It’s also a fantastic base for exploring the wider Aragon region, which is dotted with other hidden gems like the Grallas Canyon and the Dinópolis dinosaur museum in Teruel.

2. Cudillero, Asturias: A Fishing Village Straight Out of a Postcard

Address: Cudillero, Asturias

Hours: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the rare tourist crowds.

If you’ve ever dreamed of stumbling upon a picturesque fishing village where colorful houses cascade down a hillside to meet the sea, Cudillero is your dream come true. Located on the rugged coast of Asturias, this tiny port town is one of Spain’s most photogenic spots—and yet, it remains largely unknown to international backpackers.

I first heard about Cudillero from a local fisherman I met in Santander. “You want to see the real Asturias?” he asked, wiping his hands on his oilskin pants. “Go to Cudillero. It’s where the sea still rules.” Intrigued, I made the detour, and I’ve been back three times since. The village is built into the side of a steep hill, its narrow streets lined with houses painted in every shade of pastel. The harbor, filled with bobbing fishing boats, is the heart of the town, and the scent of salt and fresh seafood hangs in the air.

What to Do:

• Wander the Streets: The best way to experience Cudillero is to simply get lost. Start at the top of the hill near the Lighthouse of Cudillero and wind your way down to the harbor, stopping to admire the vibrant houses and hidden courtyards.
• Visit the Fish Market: Every morning, the local fishermen unload their catch at the small market near the harbor. It’s a bustling, authentic slice of Asturian life.
• Hike the Coastal Trails: The Ruta del Cantábrico passes through Cudillero, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. A short hike to the Cape Vidio lighthouse is highly recommended.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante Casa Poli: A family-run seafood restaurant where the menu changes daily based on the catch. Try the merluza a la sidra (hake in cider sauce) or the pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus). Meals here are around €15-20.
• Sidrería El Pescador: A lively cider house where you can sample Asturian cider poured the traditional way—from a great height into a wide glass. Pair it with a tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet) for the full experience.

Where to Stay:

• Albergue de Peregrinos de Cudillero: A budget-friendly hostel catering to pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago’s Northern Route. Dorm beds start at €16.
• Hotel La Casona de Ambo: A charming guesthouse with sea views and a cozy atmosphere. Private rooms start at €45 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Cudillero is the kind of place that feels like a secret, even to Spaniards. It’s not on the typical tourist trail, and its remote location on the Asturian coast means it’s often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations like San Sebastián or Bilbao. But that’s exactly what makes it special. Here, you’ll find a slower pace of life, a deep connection to the sea, and some of the freshest seafood in Spain—all without the crowds.

3. Ronda, Andalusia: The Dramatic Cliffside Town

Address: Ronda, Málaga, Andalusia

Hours: Most attractions open from 10 AM to 6 PM; the bridge is best visited at sunset.

Ronda is one of those places that defies expectation. While it’s not entirely unknown—it’s a popular day trip from the Costa del Sol—it’s often overshadowed by bigger Andalusian cities like Seville and Granada. But Ronda deserves more than a fleeting visit. Perched atop a sheer cliff, with the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) dramatically spanning the El Tajo Gorge, this town is a masterpiece of nature and architecture.

I first visited Ronda on a sweltering summer afternoon, and I’ll never forget the moment I stepped out onto the bridge and looked down into the gorge. The sheer drop, the rushing river below, and the sweeping views of the Andalusian countryside took my breath away. Ronda has a rich history, too—it was once a key stronghold during the Reconquista and later became a haven for bandits and artists alike. Hemingway and Orson Welles were both smitten with the town, and it’s easy to see why.

What to Do:

• Walk the Puente Nuevo: The bridge is Ronda’s most iconic landmark, and walking across it is a must. For the best views, head to the Mirador de Ronda or the Mirador de la Hoya del Tajo.
• Explore the Old Town: The Barrio de San Francisco is a maze of whitewashed houses, flower-filled balconies, and hidden plazas. Don’t miss the Palacio de Mondragón, a stunning Moorish palace with beautiful gardens.
• Visit the Bullring: Ronda is home to one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, the Plaza de Toros de Ronda. Even if you’re not a fan of bullfighting, the museum inside offers a fascinating glimpse into this controversial tradition.

Where to Eat:

• Tragata: A modern tapas bar with a creative twist on Andalusian classics. Their berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey) is legendary. Meals here are around €10-15.
• Casa María: A family-run restaurant serving hearty portions of rabo de toro (oxtail stew) and carrillada (pork cheek). It’s a favorite with locals, and the prices are very reasonable.

Where to Stay:

• Hostel Ronda: A social, backpacker-friendly hostel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the gorge. Dorm beds start at €20.
• Hotel Catalonia Ronda: A mid-range option with a pool and comfortable rooms. Private rooms start at €50 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

While Ronda isn’t entirely off the radar, it’s often overlooked by backpackers who stick to the more famous Andalusian cities. But Ronda offers a unique blend of history, drama, and natural beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s also a great base for exploring the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, one of Spain’s most stunning hiking destinations.

4. Besalú, Catalonia: A Medieval Time Capsule

Address: Besalú, Girona, Catalonia

Hours: Best explored during the day; most shops close by 7 PM.

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a medieval movie set, Besalú is the place to do it. This tiny village in Catalonia is home to one of the best-preserved Romanesque bridges in Europe, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, and a Jewish quarter that dates back to the 9th century. It’s the kind of place where history feels tangible, and the modern world seems to fade away.

I first visited Besalú on a rainy afternoon, and the misty, atmospheric conditions only added to its charm. The Pont de Besalú, a stunning 12th-century bridge with a distinctive arched silhouette, is the village’s centerpiece. Crossing it feels like stepping back in time, especially when you enter the old town and see the crumbling stone houses and the Church of Sant Pere, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

What to Do:

• Cross the Pont de Besalú: The bridge is the village’s most famous landmark, and walking across it is a must. The views of the Fluvià River below are particularly beautiful in the early morning.
• Explore the Jewish Quarter: Besalú was once home to a thriving Jewish community, and the Mikveh (ritual bath) is one of the best-preserved in Europe. The Museu dels Jueus offers a fascinating insight into the town’s Jewish history.
• Visit the Church of Sant Pere: This 10th-century church is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, with intricate carvings and a serene cloister.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante Pont Vell: A cozy restaurant with a terrace overlooking the bridge. Their fideuà (a Catalan noodle paella) is a must-try. Meals here are around €15-20.
• Cafè del Pont: A charming café serving homemade cakes and Catalan specialties like pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato).

Where to Stay:

• Hostal del Pont: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a prime location near the bridge. Dorm beds start at €22.
• Hotel 2000: A mid-range option with a pool and comfortable rooms. Private rooms start at €55 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Besalú is often overshadowed by larger Catalan cities like Barcelona and Girona, but it offers a much more intimate and authentic experience. The village is small enough to explore in a day, but its rich history and stunning architecture make it a memorable stop on any backpacking itinerary.

5. Aínsa, Aragon: A Gateway to the Pyrenees

Address: Aínsa, Huesca, Aragon

Hours: Best explored during the day; many attractions close by 6 PM.

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Aínsa is a postcard-perfect medieval village that serves as a gateway to some of Spain’s most spectacular hiking trails. With its cobbled streets, stone houses, and a stunning main square, Plaza Mayor, Aínsa feels like a step back in time. But what really sets it apart is its location—it’s the starting point for the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

I first visited Aínsa during a hiking trip through the Pyrenees, and I was immediately charmed by its laid-back vibe and stunning surroundings. The village is small but vibrant, with a mix of locals and outdoor enthusiasts who come to explore the nearby mountains. The Plaza Mayor, with its arched porticos and lively cafés, is the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking.

What to Do:

• Explore the Plaza Mayor: This stunning square is the heart of Aínsa, surrounded by medieval houses and lively cafés. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.
• Visit the Church of Santa María: A beautiful Romanesque church with a striking bell tower. The interior is simple but serene, with a peaceful cloister.
• Hike in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park: Aínsa is the perfect base for exploring this UNESCO-listed park. The Faja de las Flores trail is one of the most spectacular, offering jaw-dropping views of the Monte Perdido peak.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante L’Abisinia: A cozy restaurant serving hearty Aragonese dishes like chireta (a traditional lamb sausage) and cocido (a rich stew). Meals here are around €12-18.
• Café Pirineos: A great spot for breakfast or a mid-hike snack. Their homemade pastries and coffee are a hit with hikers.

Where to Stay:

• Albergue Aínsa: A budget-friendly hostel with a social atmosphere and a great location near the Plaza Mayor. Dorm beds start at €18.
• Hotel Casa Cuello: A charming guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a lovely garden. Private rooms start at €50 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Aínsa is a hidden gem for backpackers who love the outdoors. It’s a quiet, authentic village that offers easy access to some of the Pyrenees’ most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Aínsa is a must-visit.

6. Consuegra, Castilla-La Mancha: The Land of Windmills and Don Quixote

Address: Consuegra, Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha

Hours: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through the landscapes of Don Quixote, Consuegra is the place to do it. This tiny town in Castilla-La Mancha is famous for its iconic windmills, which sit atop a hill overlooking the surrounding plains. The windmills, which date back to the 16th century, are a powerful symbol of Spain’s literary heritage—and they’re just as magical in person as they are in Cervantes’ novel.

I first visited Consuegra on a road trip through central Spain, and I was struck by the sheer beauty of the landscape. The windmills, with their white sails and wooden beams, stand like sentinels against the blue sky, and the views from the hill are breathtaking. The town itself is small but charming, with a lovely main square and a 12th-century castle.

What to Do:

• Visit the Windmills: The Cerro Calderico hill is home to 12 windmills, including the famous Molino Sancho, which is named after Cervantes’ iconic character. You can climb inside some of the windmills and learn about their history.
• Explore the Castle of Consuegra: This 12th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.
• Try Local Saffron: Consuegra is famous for its saffron, and you can visit local farms to learn about the harvesting process. Don’t miss the Museo del Azafrán, a small museum dedicated to this precious spice.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante Don Quijote: A themed restaurant serving traditional Castilian dishes like migas (fried breadcrumbs) and carcamusas (a pork and tomato stew). Meals here are around €10-15.
• Café Bar El Molino: A cozy café with a terrace overlooking the windmills. Their tostadas con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) are a simple but delicious snack.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal Rural El Molino: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a great location near the windmills. Dorm beds start at €20.
• Hotel Consuegra: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms and a pool. Private rooms start at €45 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Consuegra is a hidden gem for backpackers who love literature, history, and stunning landscapes. It’s a quiet, authentic town that offers a glimpse into Spain’s rural heartland—and it’s the perfect place to channel your inner Don Quixote.

7. Cadaqués, Catalonia: Dalí’s Surreal Coastal Haven

Address: Cadaqués, Girona, Catalonia

Hours: Best explored during the day; many shops close by 8 PM.

Tucked away on the rugged Costa Brava, Cadaqués is a whitewashed fishing village that feels like a world unto itself. With its winding streets, pastel-colored houses, and a stunning bay that glows turquoise in the sunlight, it’s no wonder that Salvador Dalí called this place home. The village has a bohemian, artistic vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere in Spain, and its remote location means it’s often overlooked by tourists.

I first visited Cadaqués on a whim during a trip to Catalonia, and I was immediately captivated by its charm. The village is built into the side of a hill, with narrow streets that twist and turn like a labyrinth. The Church of Santa María, with its distinctive white dome, is a landmark that can be seen from anywhere in town. But what really sets Cadaqués apart is its connection to Dalí—his former home, Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí, is just a short drive away in the nearby village of Portlligat.

What to Do:

• Wander the Streets: The best way to experience Cadaqués is to simply get lost. The village is small but full of hidden gems, from tiny art galleries to secluded plazas.
• Visit the Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí: This stunning house, where Dalí lived and worked for much of his life, is a surrealist masterpiece. The gardens, filled with odd sculptures and hidden symbols, are a highlight.
• Relax on the Beach: Cadaqués has several beautiful beaches, including Platja Gran, a sandy cove with crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect spot for a swim or a sunset picnic.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante Compartir: A modern Catalan restaurant serving creative dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew) and fideuà. Meals here are around €20-25.
• Bar Melitón: A lively tapas bar with a great selection of local wines. Their pan con tomate (bread with tomato) is a must-try.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal Sol i Mar: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a great location near the beach. Dorm beds start at €22.
• Hotel Playasol: A mid-range option with a pool and sea views. Private rooms start at €60 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Cadaqués is a hidden gem for backpackers who love art, history, and stunning coastal landscapes. It’s a quiet, authentic village that offers a glimpse into Catalonia’s bohemian soul—and it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds of Barcelona.

8. Almagro, Castilla-La Mancha: A Baroque Jewel

Address: Almagro, Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha

Hours: Best explored during the day; many attractions close by 6 PM.

Almagro is one of those places that feels like a secret, even to Spaniards. This tiny town in Castilla-La Mancha is home to one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in Europe, the Teatro Municipal de Almagro, as well as a stunning main square, Plaza Mayor, that’s straight out of a fairy tale. With its cobbled streets, wrought-iron balconies, and a rich history that dates back to the 16th century, Almagro is a hidden gem that’s well worth the detour.

I first visited Almagro during a road trip through central Spain, and I was struck by its beauty and authenticity. The town is small but vibrant, with a mix of locals and theater enthusiasts who come to see performances at the Teatro Municipal. The Plaza Mayor, with its arched porticos and lively cafés, is the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

What to Do:

• Visit the Teatro Municipal de Almagro: This stunning 17th-century theater is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in Europe. Guided tours are available, and the theater hosts performances throughout the year.
• Explore the Plaza Mayor: This beautiful square is the heart of Almagro, surrounded by medieval houses and lively cafés. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.
• Visit the Museo Nacional del Teatro: This small but fascinating museum offers a glimpse into Spain’s theatrical history, with exhibits on everything from costumes to set designs.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante El Pósito: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Castilian dishes like migas (fried breadcrumbs) and carcamusas (a pork and tomato stew). Meals here are around €10-15.
• Café Bar El Rincón: A great spot for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. Their tostadas con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) are a simple but delicious treat.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal Rural El Molino: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a great location near the Plaza Mayor. Dorm beds start at €20.
• Hotel Almagro: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms and a pool. Private rooms start at €45 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Almagro is a hidden gem for backpackers who love history, theater, and stunning architecture. It’s a quiet, authentic town that offers a glimpse into Spain’s rural heartland—and it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds of Madrid.

9. Pals, Catalonia: A Medieval Village with a Beach

Address: Pals, Girona, Catalonia

Hours: Best explored during the day; many shops close by 7 PM.

Pals is one of those rare places that offers the best of both worlds—a stunning medieval village and a beautiful beach, all within a short walk of each other. Located on the Costa Brava, this tiny town is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists in favor of larger destinations like Barcelona and Girona. But Pals has a charm all its own, with its winding streets, stone houses, and a stunning main square, Plaça Major, that’s straight out of a storybook.

I first visited Pals during a road trip through Catalonia, and I was immediately captivated by its beauty. The village is small but vibrant, with a mix of locals and beachgoers who come to enjoy the nearby Platja de Pals, a long, sandy beach with crystal-clear water. The Torre de les Hores, a 12th-century tower that offers panoramic views of the countryside, is a must-visit.

What to Do:

• Explore the Old Town: The best way to experience Pals is to simply get lost. The village is small but full of hidden gems, from tiny art galleries to secluded plazas.
• Visit the Torre de les Hores: This stunning tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.
• Relax on the Beach: Platja de Pals is a beautiful, sandy beach with crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect spot for a swim or a sunset picnic.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante Sa Rascassa: A modern Catalan restaurant serving creative dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew) and fideuà. Meals here are around €20-25.
• Bar Ca La Marta: A lively tapas bar with a great selection of local wines. Their pan con tomate (bread with tomato) is a must-try.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal Sa Rascassa: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a great location near the beach. Dorm beds start at €22.
• Hotel Sa Rascassa: A mid-range option with a pool and sea views. Private rooms start at €60 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Pals is a hidden gem for backpackers who love history, beaches, and stunning coastal landscapes. It’s a quiet, authentic village that offers a glimpse into Catalonia’s rural soul—and it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds of Barcelona.

10. Cuéllar, Castilla y León: A Castle Town Frozen in Time

Address: Cuéllar, Segovia, Castilla y León

Hours: Best explored during the day; many attractions close by 6 PM.

Cuéllar is one of those places that feels like it’s been forgotten by time. This tiny town in Castilla y León is home to one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Spain, the Castillo de Cuéllar, as well as a stunning main square, Plaza Mayor, that’s straight out of a fairy tale. With its cobbled streets, wrought-iron balconies, and a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, Cuéllar is a hidden gem that’s well worth the detour.

I first visited Cuéllar during a road trip through central Spain, and I was struck by its beauty and authenticity. The town is small but vibrant, with a mix of locals and history enthusiasts who come to explore the castle and the nearby Muralla de Cuéllar, a medieval wall that once protected the town. The Plaza Mayor, with its arched porticos and lively cafés, is the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

What to Do:

• Visit the Castillo de Cuéllar: This stunning 12th-century castle is one of the best-preserved in Spain. Guided tours are available, and the castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Explore the Muralla de Cuéllar: This medieval wall once protected the town, and parts of it are still standing today. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk and some photography.
• Visit the Iglesia de San Martín: This beautiful church is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, with intricate carvings and a serene cloister.

Where to Eat:

• Restaurante El Rincón de Cuéllar: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Castilian dishes like cochinillo (roast suckling pig) and judiones de La Granja (a local bean stew). Meals here are around €12-18.
• Café Bar El Castillo: A great spot for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. Their tostadas con tomate (toasted bread with tomato) are a simple but delicious treat.

Where to Stay:

• Hostal Rural El Castillo: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a great location near the castle. Dorm beds start at €20.
• Hotel Cuéllar: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms and a pool. Private rooms start at €45 per night.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

Cuéllar is a hidden gem for backpackers who love history, castles, and stunning medieval architecture. It’s a quiet, authentic town that offers a glimpse into Spain’s rural heartland—and it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds of Madrid.

Final Thoughts: Why These Hidden Gems Matter

Spain is a country that rewards the curious traveler. While its famous cities and beaches are undeniably stunning, it’s the hidden gems—the quiet villages, the misty mountain trails, the coastal hamlets where time seems to stand still—that offer the most authentic and unforgettable experiences. In 2026, as the world continues to open up and travel becomes more accessible, these ten destinations are the perfect escape for backpackers looking to connect with the soul of Spain.

So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set off on an adventure. Whether you’re wandering the medieval streets of Albarracín, hiking the trails of Aínsa, or sipping cider in Cudillero, one thing is certain: these hidden gems will leave you with stories to tell for years to come.