Yzabelle Bostyn
THESE are eight of Spain’s best ‘underrated’ cities according to Time Out magazine, but how many have you visited?
Amidst scores of anti-tourism protests throughout Spain, respected travel magazine Time Out has made a list of the best alternative destinations for your weekend in the sun.
Spain is a vast country with a range of different climates, landscapes and cultures, from ‘foodie havens’ to World Heritage sites, there is something for everyone.
But which are the country’s best hidden gems?
- Logroño
Although most people have heard of La Rioja thanks to its world-famous wine, its ‘lively’ capital, Logroño, is not so well known.
One of the stops along the Camino de Santiago, the small city offers the chance to refuel in traditional bars serving tapas and pintxos.
Bar hopping is often the best way to explore the city, with each venue specialising in a particular ingredient or dish.
It is also known for its deep cultural traditions, some of which date back to medieval times.
Must sees include the cathedral, stone bridge and many churches..
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
If asked to name a city in the Basque Country, most people would name the famous San Sebastian or Bilbao.
Though very few know the region’s real capital, Vitoria-Gasteiz, it is nonetheless worth a visit.
Filled with pintxo bars and gourmet restaurants, it’s a great spot for foodies without the crowds of its neighbouring cities.
It also prides itself on being one of Spain’s greenest and most sustainable spots, with the biggest amount of green space per inhabitant.
After exploring the historic centre complete with excellent museums, parks and gastronomy, explore the green belt and wetlands surrounding the city.
If you like an active holiday, Vitoria-Gasteiz is perfect thanks to its 150km of cycle lanes.
- Oviedo
Yet another northern Spanish city with a strong gastronomic tradition, Oviedo is known for its hearty stews and cider.
Found in the green region of Asturias, you may find more similarities with Scotland than stereotypical Spain, with bagpipes and rain galore.
Although small, Oviedo packs a punch, being a UNESCO site for its pre-Romanesque architecture.
A great place to start is wandering around the cathedral and many museums.
If you fancy a longer ramble, why not start the Camino de Santiago from here, a ground zero for many pilgrims.
- Merida
The capital of Extremadura, Merida is one of the least-visited and underpopulated regions of Spain.
However, it has a long history dating back to the 1st century BC, when it was founded by the Romans.
To this day, it still boasts some of Spain’s best Roman monuments which are alive and kicking.
Watch a show at the 2,000 year-old Roman Theatre, where each year the International Classical Theatre Festival is held.
Also worth exploring are the ancient Roman Bridge, the aqueduct and Temple of Diana.
- Cordoba
Many visitors to Andalucia typically focus on Sevilla, Malaga and Granada, forgetting the delights of Cordoba.
Once the capital of the Moorish empire, the city maintains this grandeur, with a stunning alcazar, religious buildings and dramatic bridge.
A must visit is the UNESCO World Heritage site, La Mezquita de Cordoba, a unique cathedral-mosque hybrid.
May is a great time to visit the city, as residents open their doors for the annual patio festival.
Lose yourself in the winding alleys as you stumble across hidden gardens, each more beautiful than the next.
- Girona
Just 62 miles from Barcelona, Girona offers an enchanting look at true Catalan culture.
According to Time Out, ‘the Old Town has a particular special quality that feels as if you’re lost in time’.
It’s no coincidence that the city has one of the best preserved Jewish Quarters in the whole of Spain, with narrow alleys, hidden stairways and stunning arches.
Venture down to the river to get a glimpse of Girona’s famous river, with colourful houses that appear to be hanging over the water.
So picturesque, it’s no surprise the city has been used in many hit TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Killing Eve.
- Murcia
Nestled between Andalucia and Valencia, Murcia is often overlooked and its few visitors mostly flock to the coast.
However, the inland capital should not be missed.
Much like Andalucia, the city is surrounded by miles of olive groves and apricot orchards.
In the centre, the ‘delightful’ old town is best explored by wandering the streets and stopping at tapas bars.
City life centres around the ‘flamboyant-style’ Gothic cathedral and the former grand casino, which first opened in 1847 and has been restored to its former glory.
- Valladolid
Although tourists often choose the coast over inland Spain, the ‘vast’ Castilla y Leon region is full of surprises and Valladolid is one of its most overlooked destinations.
Just northwest of Madrid, the ‘lively’ university city is a hive of culture, with tapas bars, museums, palaces and churches.
If you are desperate for a dip, take a wander along the river, which has its very own beach.
Much like Andalucia, the city is known for its elaborate Easter celebrations, which can be enjoyed without the hordes of devotees often seen in southern Spain.
