Discover Spain’s Best Coastal Cities: Your Ultimate Sunseeker Guide

Spain’s 8000km of coastline is a sunseeker’s dream, blessed with some of Europe’s best beaches – from the rocky coves of the Costa Brava to the sand dunes of the Costa de la Luz and the warm waters of the Mediterranean. Located in a sheltered bay, San Sebastián is Spain’s most sophisticated beachside city, with the culinary delights to match. The big city of València has a lively beachfront with golden sands and a happening nightlife scene. Cádiz’s northwestern beach Playa de la Victoria is a broad swath of golden sand, while Barcelona provides long stretches of sand and a fashionable crowd. San Sebastián is the Basque Country’s most elegant and glamorous city, with breathtaking beaches, a world-class culinary scene and a calendar full of exciting events. The perfect beach getaway for the discerning traveller, it’s also a top destination for surfers, foodies and those keen to experience one of Spain’s most unique cultural regions. San Sebastián’s beaches are stunning. The 1.3km Playa de la Concha is one of Europe’s most beautiful city beaches, with calm waters and white sands that fill up with sunbathers in July and August. Playa de Ondarreta is a smaller beach at the western end of the bay, while Playa de la Zurriola is the best spot for surfing. La Concha Bay’s calm waters are ideal for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. Pukas Surf Eskola offers rentals and lessons, while La Perla rents out kayaks and paddleboards. San Sebastián’s dining scene is second to none. The city has more Michelin stars per capita than any other Spanish city, with top choices including Arzak, Akelarre and Mugaritz. Don’t miss the chance to go pintxo (Basque tapas) bar-hopping in the atmospheric Old Town or the more contemporary Gros neighbourhood. València is a city that has it all: a rich history, futuristic architecture, a vibrant nightlife and a stunning beachfront. The city’s beaches are easily accessible, with a lively promenade lined with bars and restaurants serving the city’s famous paella. València’s old town is a maze of narrow streets and grand monuments, including the Silk Exchange, València Cathedral and the Serranos Towers. The futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is a must-visit, with its stunning modern architecture and attractions like the Oceanogràfic aquarium and the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe. The city’s beaches, Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas, are broad stretches of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and beach sports. València is the birthplace of paella, and no visit is complete without trying this iconic dish. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from rooftop bars to underground clubs. For a taste of València’s local life, head to the bustling Mercat Central, one of Europe’s largest fresh food markets. Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern coastal charm. It’s a city that invites exploration, with its narrow streets, vibrant plazas and the scent of the sea always in the air. Cádiz’s crowning glory is its 3km-long Playa de la Victoria, a golden sweep of sand that’s perfect for sunbathing, beach sports or simply strolling along the water’s edge. The beach is flanked by a lively promenade lined with bars, cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local delicacies. The city itself is a treasure trove of historical sites, from the Cádiz Cathedral with its golden dome to the ancient Roman Theatre. Wander through the atmospheric neighbourhood of La Viña, known for its traditional taverns and vibrant atmosphere, or explore the bustling Mercado Central de Abastos, where you can sample local produce and catch a glimpse of daily life in Cádiz. For a taste of Cádiz’s nightlife, head to the beachfront bars along Playa de la Victoria or explore the city’s many flamenco venues. Cádiz is also famous for its annual Carnival, one of the most vibrant and colourful in Spain, where the streets come alive with music, dancing and elaborate costumes. Barcelona is a city that needs no introduction, a vibrant metropolis where modernist architecture meets golden beaches and a world-class culinary scene. It’s a city of contrasts, where you can spend the morning exploring the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, the afternoon lounging on the beach, and the evening dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Barcelona’s beaches stretch for 4km along the Mediterranean coast, with Barceloneta Beach being the most famous. This lively beach is a hub of activity, with beach bars, water sports and a lively promenade. For a more relaxed vibe, head to Bogatell Beach or Mar Bella Beach, which is popular with the city’s LGBTQ+ community. The city’s architectural wonders are a must-see, from Antoni Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família and Park Güell to the modernist masterpieces of the Eixample district. Barcelona is also a haven for foodies, with everything from traditional tapas bars to cutting-edge fine dining. Don’t miss the chance to explore the bustling La Boqueria Market, where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce. For a taste of Barcelona’s nightlife, head to the trendy bars and clubs of the El Born and Raval neighbourhoods, or enjoy a cocktail with a view at one of the city’s many rooftop bars.