Alright, let’s just say it straight—Spain is one of those places that people think they know, but so many still get it all wrong.
You’ve got your sunseekers heading straight for the Costas, your tapas fans ordering sangria in places that clearly serve wine better, and those who do the big three—Madrid, Barcelona and Seville—thinking they’ve “done” Spain.
Table of Contents
You’re missing the real magic if that’s your game plan.
This isn’t about bashing the classic best Spanish destinations – they’re popular for good reason—but you’ll get so much more out of Spain when you stop sticking to the surface stuff.
You’re here for a bit of that extra sparkle, right?
Stop Skipping the Local Way of Life
You’re not just a visitor; you’re stepping into someone’s everyday life. So, rather than keeping that rigid sightseeing itinerary, loosen up a bit. Sit in the square. Watch the locals go about their day. Order a cafe solo and just be there. Head to small neighbourhoods like Gracia in Barcelona, where the rhythm of life is totally different from the tourist-packed Ramblas.
If you’re in Madrid, get away from Gran Vía and make your way to the Lavapies district. It’s multicultural, full of street art, indie bars, and surprisingly affordable eats. Try a tortilla at El Economico—now that’s comfort food done right.
Stop Thinking Spain is All About Flamenco and Bullfighting
Look, Flamenco is gorgeous and raw—especially if you see it properly. But not every city is a Flamenco hotspot. For the real deal, go to Jerez de la Frontera or Cádiz. There’s a little spot in Jerez called Tabanco El Pasaje, where locals crowd in, guitars play into the night, and there’s none of the forced touristy vibe. You’ll feel it in your bones.
And as for bullfighting? It’s controversial for a reason, and not nearly as central to Spanish culture as you might think. Modern Spain has plenty more to show you. Go visit the Basque Country and you’ll get a totally different take—think Michelin-star pintxos bars, cutting-edge architecture, and coastline for days.
Stop Eating at the Wrong Times
If you’re eating dinner at 6pm in Spain, you’re doing it wrong. You’ll stand out like a sore thumb and likely end up in a restaurant designed only for tourists. Wait it out and do dinner like the locals—around 9 or 10pm. If you’re in Valencia, grab a seat at Casa Montaña in the El Cabanyal area. It’s old-school, rustic and bursting with flavour. Their grilled sardines and vermouth are the kind of combo you’ll dream about for weeks.
Stop Missing the Hidden Spots
Spain’s smaller towns and hidden corners are where the real stories live. Everyone heads to Granada for the Alhambra Palace (and yes, it’s stunning), but just down the road is a town called Guadix where people still live in cave houses. Some even let you in for a peek. It’s peaceful, raw and entirely different to the Spain in glossy brochures.
Or take the time to visit Albarracín in Aragon. It’s this little fairytale town perched on a hillside, wrapped in pink stone and winding alleyways. There’s no mass tourism here—just stunning views, peaceful vibes and the kind of charm you can’t fake.
Stop Assuming the Beaches Are All the Same
You’re in Spain, so yeah, the beaches are lovely. But not all of them are packed towel-to-towel with sunburnt bodies. Head to the Balearics and skip the main resort strips. Try Cala Tuent in Mallorca—hidden at the end of a scenic drive through the Tramuntana mountains. It’s rugged, quiet and the water is crystal clear.
Or in Menorca, walk a little further past the obvious beaches and you’ll find Cala Mitjana—tucked away and surrounded by pine forests. Bring your own snacks and snorkel kit—you won’t want to leave.
Stop Buying Flamenco Dresses and Fake Fans as Souvenirs
You can do better than plastic bull souvenirs. Pop into artisan markets or small workshops instead. In Toledo, there’s a little family-run shop called Artesanía Morales where you can buy real hand-painted ceramics. They’ll even explain the designs to you while you browse. Way more meaningful than a fridge magnet.
In Andalucía, go for locally made olive oil or sherry. In the Basque Country, maybe pick up some Idiazabal cheese. These are the tastes you’ll actually want to take home.
Stop Thinking Spain Is All the Same
Spain isn’t just one vibe—it’s dozens. North and south are worlds apart. Galicia feels like another country altogether—with misty landscapes, Celtic roots and the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat. Try Pulpo a la Gallega at the O Grove seafood market. It’s tender, salty and served on a wooden plate with smoky paprika. Trust—it’s unforgettable.
And don’t skip the Canary Islands thinking they’re just for winter sun. Tenerife’s north side is green and dramatic and full of local flavour. Try the town of Garachico—it’s all lava rock pools and cobbled streets, and the food at Restaurant Rocamar is pure island magic.
Stop Ignoring the Siesta
Yes, it’s real—and yes, you need to plan around it. Especially in smaller towns, everything shuts between 2 and 5pm. Instead of getting annoyed, lean into it. Go have a slow lunch. Wander through a shady park. Go full local mode with a siesta of your own. Spain teaches you to slow down, and honestly, once you get used to it, you won’t want to go back to rushing.
Stop Relying on English
Even if your Spanish is just the basics, give it a go. Locals really appreciate the effort. A simple gracias or una cerveza, por favor gets you better smiles and sometimes better service too. In places like León or Zamora, English isn’t widely spoken, but the food and history are outstanding—and a bit of Spanish goes a long way.
So, What Should You Be Doing Instead?
Take Spain at a slower pace. Skip a big city or two and head for the countryside or a coastal village you’ve never heard of. Eat late, chat with locals, find that little bar that’s full of old men watching football—and just be there. That’s the Spain that stays with you.
You’ll come back not just with pretty photos, but with real stories. The time the shopkeeper in Úbeda insisted you try aceite picual, or the evening in Bilbao when the bartender created a pintxo just for you because you looked “adventurous”.
Final Thought
Spain isn’t a checklist—it’s a mood, a rhythm, a thousand tiny details that you only notice when you stop doing what everyone else is doing. So, next time you’re packing that suitcase, leave the tourist trail behind. Your best Spanish adventure is waiting off the beaten path.
Also Read:
Oliver is a professional blogger and a seasoned business and finance writer. With a passion for simplifying complex financial topics, he provides valuable insights to a diverse online audience. With four years of experience, Oliver has polished his skills as a finance blogger.
