I live in Spain – there are 5 underrated places tourists miss | Travel News | Travel

Spain is home to some of the most popular cities, including Barcelona and Madrid, which boast numerous iconic landmarks that contribute to their allure. The country attracted more than 90 million visitors last year, yet a Spanish resident has urged travellers to explore the underrated gems of the country and avoid the touristy hotspots.

James Smith, who originally hails from the UK but has lived in Spain for years, has witnessed “countless visitors return from ‘must-see’ attractions feeling disappointed.” Whether that’s Barcelona’s most famous street, Madrid’s famed square, or Benidorm’s beachfront, some of the country’s most iconic landmarks can become incredibly overcrowded, with an additional surge in prices.

However, to help holidaymakers avoid disappointment and uncover a more authentic Spanish experience, James, founder of Learn Spanish with James, has outlined five underrated alternatives. Not only will this take you a little off the beaten path, but it’ll also help avoid those busy hotspots that can become rather overwhelming, particularly in the scorching Spanish heat.

1. El Born or Gràcia, Barcelona

Barcelona’s most famous street, La Rambla, attracts millions of visitors a year. It boasts restaurants, tourist shops and performers, yet it has become a hotspot for pickpockets, and a coffee could set you back €8 in one of the outdoor cafés, compared to a mere €1.50 elsewhere.

“La Rambla has become a victim of its own fame,” James explains. “It’s so focused on tourists that it’s lost any authentic Barcelona character.”

Instead, James recommends heading to El Born or Gràcia, nearby areas that offer “genuine Barcelona energy”. Here, you can expect to find independent cafés brimming with locals drinking their morning cortados, artisan shops with handmade products, restaurants without the overpriced menu, and stunning architecture to admire without fighting for a space on the path.

2. Plaza Mayor and La Latina, Madrid

Puerta del Sol, a busy public square in Madrid, is often flooded with tourists taking photos infront of the iconic bear statue or navigating their way around the various street vendors and chain stores. “People expect Puerta del Sol to feel quintessentially Madrid, but it’s actually one of the least characteristic spots in the city,” James says.

Instead, the Spanish expat advises visiting the area of Plaza Mayor early in the morning and before tour groups turn up, for a “genuine Madrid atmosphere”. Another area to explore is La Latina, where you can wander along narrow cobbled streets, explore traditional markets, enjoy lunch in a tapas bar or marvel at the century-old taverns.

3. Bunkers del Carmel, Barcelona

The renowned Park Güell in Barcelona, with its expansive green spaces and gardens, is a picturesque and Instagram-worthy spot. Yet, James notes that in reality, it comes with “timed entry tickets, restricted access, and crowds that make it impossible to get an unobstructed photo” of the famed mosaic benches.

“Park Güell has become so controlled and commercialised that it’s lost the spontaneous joy that Gaudí probably intended,” James notes.

Instead, James recommends walking up to Bunkers del Carmel, where visitors can marvel at the breathtaking views across Barcelona without paying an entry fee and no crowds. The former anti-aircraft site offers 360-degree panoramas of the city and is said to be a favourite among locals, who enjoy watching the sunset with a glass of wine and friends.

4. Formentera, Ibiza

Notoriously known as Europe’s party capital, the Ibiza strip, including San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa, attracts thousands of partygoers. Yet, its drink prices and venue entrance fees are expensive, while it boasts “neon and noise”.

“The party scene has its place, but it’s not representative of what makes Ibiza special,” James says.

Instead, James proposes a short ferry ride to Formentera to explore the northern part of Ibiza, around San Juan and Portinatx. There are secluded coves, golden sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, whitewashed villages that have stopped in time, and beach bars where “boho culture still thrives” for half the price.

5. Altea or Guadalest, Benidorm

Benidorm is famed for offering a budget-friendly getaway and is a popular hotspot for Brits. Despite its enticing price tags, the beaches can become overcrowded, and restaurants can serve “international cuisine” rather than traditional Spanish dishes.

James shares, “Benidorm serves a purpose for certain travellers, but if you’re looking for Spanish culture or authentic coastal life, you won’t find it here.”

Instead, James suggests travelling slightly further to the charming city of Altea or the village of Guadalest, nestled in the Spanish mountains. This is where you can find traditional restaurants serving paella, a slower pace of Spanish culture, and where its residents holiday.

If you’re looking to visit those lesser-known locations, James further advises: “The best Spain exists just beyond the tourist maps. My advice is simple: arrive early or stay late. Most famous sites are bearable before 9am or after 7pm when day-trippers have moved on.

“Talk to your accommodation hosts about where they eat and drink. Locals rarely steer you wrong, and you’ll discover places that guidebooks miss entirely.

“Learn even basic Spanish phrases. ‘¿Dónde comen los locales?’ (Where do locals eat?) works wonders. People appreciate the effort and often share hidden gems they’d never mention to someone who doesn’t try.

“Finally, stay curious about the neighbourhoods surrounding famous landmarks. The streets two blocks away often hold more authentic culture than the attraction itself. Spain rewards those willing to wander off the beaten path.”

For more information on James’ Spanish courses and cultural insights, you can visit the Learn Spanish with James website.

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