Spain isn’t all amazing gastronomy, sandy beaches, and friendly citizens, it’s much more than that. The quality of life in Spain focuses on relaxing and socialising with family and friends. It’s a country that takes pride in its Mediterranean lifestyle. 

No matter what kind of vibe you’re looking for, Spain has a city that’s just right for you. You can take it easy in a countryside village, live the metropolitan life in a big city, or even spend your time in the coastal towns.  

Tourists often fall in love with the cities that Spain has to offer and many of them never even leave. There’s also an incredibly large expat community in Spain, so if you’re worried about starting anew, you’ll have other neighbours that have done so as well. 

Not only is the cost of living relatively cheap compared to other European countries, but the country is very well connected, and you can explore surrounding cities or provinces with ease. Simply hop on a train and start enjoying the diverse culture the country has to offer. 

If you’re looking for a fresh start in a relaxed, stunning, and friendly location, look no further than Spain. In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the top Spanish cities you should consider before relocating. Keep reading to find out. 

Malaga 

The birthplace of famous painter, Pablo Picasso, Malaga is located at the very south of Spain in an area known as “Costa del Sol”, which literally translates to “coast of the sun”. If you’re looking for sunshine, this town boasts of approximately 300 days of sun a year. 

If you have children and you would like them to continue their studies in English, there are plenty of international and bilingual schools in this province. Although there are plenty of UK expats abroad in Malaga, there is an incredibly diverse expat community with individuals from all over the world coming to settle in the area. You can even find French, Finnish, and German schools in the region.

Granada 

This hidden gem between the mountain ranges of Andalucia is a laidback and culture-heavy city that many struggle to leave. Ernest Hemmingway even branded the town as a “must-see” for any people passing by the country. You can drive down to the coast of Motril if you’re in need of a beach day and drive up to the snowy mountains of Sierra Nevada if you feel like hitting the slopes. 

There is a young and energetic energy within the city thanks to its bustling university life. However, you can also still find peace and quiet within the city centre or even in neighbouring villages. Plus, the gastronomy scene is unmatched, as you can get high quality tapas to accompany your beer or wine for under 3 euros. 

Mallorca 

Thinking about living on an island surrounded by crystal clear waters and lush greenery? Then Mallorca is most definitely the place for you. Apart from its stunning scenery and sunny weather, this busy holiday destination is sure to tick every box you’re looking for. For many, Mallorca is a zen-like place where people come to recharge and truly live their life to the fullest. 

The Balearic Islands are famous for its art galleries, Mediterranean food, and Moorish remains. If you’re in the mood to party, you can simply hop onto a ferry and spend the day in Ibiza. If you’re in the mood for a solitary and tranquil beach day, head over to the neighbouring island of Menorca. The choice is yours! Whatever you decide, you’re simply a short boat ride away, so you can island hop in style.  

Madrid 

Are you more of a big city person? If so, don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for you in Spain too. Our personal favourite is the capital city of Madrid. Compared to other big cities in Europe, Madrid is relatively affordable, as a room in a shared house can set you back anywhere from 300 to 600 euros a month. 

There’s something to do for everyone in Madrid. Whether you enjoy live art, botanical gardens, or rooftop terraces, we’re sure you’ll be able to find it in this city. There are cultural events every week and there are also a ton of free museums, along with some internationally renowned institutions too.  

Spain is a vast and diverse country, so you’ll need to do plenty of research before you settle down. Think about what your priorities are and make a list of potential destinations. Then, plan your vacation and visit every city on the list. After all, you should never buy before you try. If you’re looking for a fresh start, the Spanish community is incredibly welcoming and it’s also rather international, so you’ll be sure to feel at home.