10 Unmissable Day Trips in Spain: Hidden Gems & Must-Sees
Spain’s magic isn’t just in its big cities. Some of its most unforgettable moments are tucked away in the best day trips from Barcelona, Madrid, and beyond. Here are 10 hidden gems in Spain that will make you fall in love with the country all over again.
1. Ronda, Andalusia: Where Cliffs and Legends Collide
Address: Ronda, Málaga, Andalusia | Hours: Best visited 9 AM–6 PM (many shops close for siesta 2–5 PM)
Perched atop the dramatic El Tajo gorge, this whitewashed town is one of the most scenic day trips in southern Spain. The Puente Nuevo bridge spans a 120-meter drop, offering breathtaking views of the Guadalevín River below.
Explore the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, or wander the cobbled streets of the old town. For a taste of local flavor, try rabo de toro (oxtail stew) at Bar Lechuguita.
Pro tip: Visit early or late to avoid crowds and catch the golden light on the cliffs. Ronda is a perfect affordable day trip from Seville.
2. Sitges, Catalonia: Barcelona’s Bohemian Beach Escape
Address: Sitges, Barcelona, Catalonia | Hours: Best explored 10 AM–8 PM
Just 35 minutes from Barcelona, Sitges is one of the best day trips from Barcelona for beaches and culture. This seaside gem boasts 17 beaches, from family-friendly stretches to clothing-optional coves.
Stroll along the Paseo Marítimo, visit the Cau Ferrat Museum, and enjoy seafood paella at El Trull. Sitges is also famous for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and festivals like the Sitges Film Festival.
Pro tip: Take the train from Barcelona’s Sants station for a stress-free trip.
3. Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha: A Medieval Time Capsule
Address: Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha | Hours: Best visited 9 AM–7 PM
Toledo is a UNESCO-listed city and one of the best day trips from Madrid for history lovers. This medieval gem is a melting pot of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures.
Visit the Alcázar of Toledo, the Toledo Cathedral, and the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Don’t miss the local mazapán (marzipan) at Café del Alcázar.
Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds on this popular day trip from Madrid.
4. Cádiz, Andalusia: The Silver-Cup City by the Sea
Address: Cádiz, Andalusia | Hours: Best explored 10 AM–9 PM
Cádiz is one of Europe’s oldest cities and a hidden gem in Andalusia. This sun-drenched port city offers golden beaches, historic charm, and incredible seafood.
Climb the Catedral de Cádiz for views of the Atlantic, explore the Barrio del Pópulo, and enjoy pescaíto frito (fried fish) at Freiduría Las Flores.
Pro tip: Cádiz is easily reachable from Seville (1.5 hours by train).
5. Pals, Costa Brava: A Medieval Village Frozen in Time
Address: Pals, Girona, Catalonia | Hours: Best visited 10 AM–6 PM
Pals is a medieval village on the Costa Brava, perfect for a family-friendly day trip near Valencia. Its cobblestone streets and Torre de les Hores (clock tower) make it feel like a fairy tale.
Visit the Pals Parish Church and enjoy fideuà (noodle paella) at Restaurant Sa Rascassa.
Pro tip: Rent a car to explore the nearby Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park.
6. Segovia, Castilla y León: A Fairy-Tale Castle and Roman Aqueduct
Address: Segovia, Castilla y León | Hours: Best visited 9 AM–7 PM
Segovia is famous for its Alcázar of Segovia, a castle that inspired Disney’s Snow White. This is one of the best day trips from Madrid for history and food.
See the Roman Aqueduct, explore the castle, and try cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) at Restaurant José María.
Pro tip: Segovia is just 30 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train.
7. Tarifa, Andalusia: Where Europe Meets Africa
Address: Tarifa, Cádiz, Andalusia | Hours: Best explored 10 AM–10 PM
Tarifa is where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, making it a unique day trip from Seville. This windswept town is perfect for surfers and nature lovers.
Walk along Playa de Los Lances, explore the old town, and enjoy fresh seafood at El Francés.
Pro tip: Take a boat trip to spot dolphins or whales in the strait.
8. Besalú, Catalonia: A Medieval Jewel
Address: Besalú, Girona, Catalonia | Hours: Best visited 10 AM–6 PM
Besalú is a medieval village in Catalonia, known for its 12th-century Romanesque bridge. It’s a great day trip from Barcelona for history lovers.
Explore the Jewish Quarter and enjoy Catalan cuisine at Restaurant Pont Vell.
Pro tip: Besalú is a 30-minute drive from Girona.
9. Cudillero, Asturias: A Fishing Village Straight from a Postcard
Address: Cudillero, Asturias | Hours: Best explored 10 AM–8 PM
Cudillero is a colorful fishing village on the Asturias coast. Its pastel houses and harbor make it one of Spain’s most picturesque coastal day trips.
Try merluza a la sidra (hake in cider sauce) at El Pescador.
Pro tip: Cudillero is a 1-hour drive from Oviedo.
10. Albarracín, Aragon: Spain’s Most Beautiful Village
Address: Albarracín, Teruel, Aragon | Hours: Best visited 10 AM–6 PM
Albarracín is often called the most beautiful village in Spain. Its ochre-toned houses and Albarracín Castle make it a must-see off-the-beaten-path day trip.
Wander the streets and try ternasco (roast lamb) at Restaurant El Portalón.
Pro tip: Albarracín is a 2-hour drive from Valencia.