Spain is a vastly recognised and celebrated country renowned for its beauty, where the sun-soaked seaside meets stunning architecture, impressive history, and vibrant cities. The natural scenery of Spain is beyond captivating and endlessly diverse, from the popular holiday destinations along the Costa del Sol to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees mountains, there is no shortage of nature’s wonders for lovers of the outdoors to explore. It is more than just nature that makes Spain such a beautiful country, it is the collections of world-famous art, music, and food, the rich historical reminders of the past hidden in the walls of Moorish palaces and mediaeval castles that really gives the country its unique charm. Culture and heritage are woven into the very fabric of Spanish cities, making every corner as fascinating as the next.
There are many historical ties between Spain and the UK, not least Spain’s long history of welcoming residents from the UK which dates back centuries. This is largely due to trade and diplomacy links, like the alliance of 1789 that saw Britain and Spain fighting against Napoleon’s France side by side in 1808. In more recent years there have been commercial links tying Spain and the UK together, with the UK being the main buyer of Spanish tourism, and Spain becoming one of the most popular destinations for people relocating from the UK. This is usually the case for those in search of a better climate and a more relaxed lifestyle, from retirees drawn to the sunny Spanish coasts to professionals seeking out new experiences in the big cities.
Every city in Spain has its own story and unique advantages for people looking to move abroad. This guide highlights the best all-around cities in Spain to make the relocation experience as seamless and comfortable as possible.
Barcelona
The place where the golden sands meet a thriving urban jungle, Barcelona is the best city in Spain for young people wanting beautiful days and busy nights. The city offers great weather and delicious food, not to mention buzzing nightlife that is perfect for the young expatriate. Barcelona is ranked as the 29th best city globally for people looking to leave their home country and as a result is filled with communities of English people making it easy to build new social circles. With the increase in popularity, Barcelona is also emerging as one of the more expensive cities in Spain, with the average apartment rental prices standing at an average of £1300 a month. However, food prices in Barcelona tend to be lower than other parts of the country, with meals typically costing between £6-£16. Despite the rise in accommodation costs, there are beautiful neighbourhoods across the city for all different budgets.
Madrid
With a higher expat city ranking than Barcelona, Spain’s capital sits at 10th on the list and is especially popular with people who are searching for a vibrant, cultural, and social lifestyle. Madrid is enjoying great popularity with a whole host of activities, from trips to the theatre to some of the most exclusive nightclubs as well as a plentiful supply of perfectly manicured parks and green spaces. The city also houses one of the most significant collections of Spanish and Latin American art in Europe, showcased in numerous world-class galleries. Madrid is home to more than half a million expatriates, which makes sense considering the key role the city plays in the European economy. This means there are plenty of jobs that are available and accessible to English speakers. Naturally, the opportunity for a high-quality life comes with certain expenses, with rental prices coming in slightly cheaper than Barcelona with an average monthly rent of £1265.
Mijas Pueblo
Located about five miles inland from the renowned Costa del Sol is a quaint Andalusian pueblo that is every golfer’s dream. There are twenty-seven golf courses within a seven-mile radius of Mijas Pueblo, coupled with the beautiful year-round weather and the reasonable greens fees, this town is a paradise for people with a penchant for golf. Even without the easy golf access, Mijas Pueblo is an attractive proposition. With its winding cobbled streets lined by an abundance of artsy Spanish stalls and the beautiful hanging geraniums decorating every wall leading to the main plaza, this pueblo is a beautiful hub with an endless array of activities nearby. Beaches, churches, restaurants, and bars, everything an expat could want in a town.
Seville
Boasting an engaging culture and interesting history, Seville has earned its place as one of the best places to live in Spain. Seville is characterised by its enchanting Moorish architecture, some of which was built during the Arab occupation of the Iberian Peninsula between the 8th and 15th centuries. The city is an ideal choice for people seeking a slower pace of life as it manages to be a retreat from the bustling tourist crowds while still offering plenty of entertainment. It is the best of both worlds with its proximity to both the beach and mountains and pedestrian-friendly layout. The historic neighbourhood of Triana is one of Seville’s gems with its narrow alleys and quaint shops. With significantly lower costs of living than other parts of Spain, Seville is also a budget-friendly option that still offers a beautiful living experience.
Valencia
For a family-friendly city, look no further than Valencia. With lower housing costs meaning families can comfortably find and afford spacious apartments and an abundance of green spaces for children to play in, Valencia is one of the best Spanish cities to raise a family. The smaller size of the city makes it easily accessible either on foot or by public transport but despite its size Valencia still manages to deliver on the entertainment front. The Turia gardens make for a beautiful day trip and the variety of restaurants makes the city every food lover’s dream.
Spain offers a range of diverse and beautiful places to call home, from bustling urban hubs to scenic seaside towns. Whether it is the allure of a busy city or the dream of a slower pace of life that draws you to Spain, it can certainly be found in this beautiful country. With its welcoming communities and rich cultural heritage, Spain continues to be a top destination for people seeking a great quality of life outside the UK.
