15 Beautiful Places in Spain Beginning with B (Hidden Gems Await)

Which brilliant places in Spain beginning with ‘B’ should you visit? Why not explore Spain in a different way by working your way through the alphabet. After a popular start to my Spanish alphabet series with my 15 Beautiful Places in Spain Beginning with A post, it is now time to explore the letter B.

From major cities such as Barcelona and Bilbao to lesser-known locations like Badajoz and Begur, these 15 “B” locations truly capture the diversity of Spain. From the greenery of the Basque Country to the arid landscapes of Extremadura and everything in between, join me as we discover 15 captivating Spanish destinations, all linked by the letter B.

Whether you’re planning your next Spanish getaway, seeking authentic cultural experiences, or simply love discovering new destinations, this list showcases some of Spain’s most captivating locations that many travellers overlook.

Top 15 Must-Visit Places in Spain Starting with ‘B’

1. Barcelona, Catalonia

It was always going to be number one! Barcelona is one of Spain’s most famous cities and its second largest. Located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, it is a cultural and economic powerhouse with a ton of things to do.

Barcelona truly has everything – world-class sites, incredible food and nightlife, beautiful beaches and fantastic sport. Once you’ve been to Barcelona, your life will never be the same!

• Top Attractions: Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter
• Cuisine: Catalan specialities including Pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), tapas & excellent seafood
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and to avoid the hectic summer crowds.
• Travel Tip: Book Sagrada Família tickets and Parc Güell entrance well in advance. These are two of Barcelona’s most popular attractions and sell out quickly!

2. Bilbao, Basque Country

Next on the list is one of my favourite cities – Bilbao! Once a city completely focused on industry, Bilbao has completely transformed itself into one of Spain’s cultural powerhouses. The completion of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997 put this Basque city firmly on the tourist map, and it’s never left since. I first visited in 2017 and have been back 3 times since!

Aside from the incredible Guggenheim Museum (one of my favourite museums in the world!), Bilbao offers a stunning old town and world-class food that’s hard to beat. Get lost wandering through its Casco Viejo, sampling different pinchos in each bar. There’s also the Artxanda Funicular for stunning views of the city and Basque countryside and the incredible Aste Nagusia festival in August each year.

• Top Attractions: Guggenheim Museum, Casco Viejo, Artxanda Funicular
• Cuisine: Bilbao is known for its pinchos and world-class dining. A culinary hotspot in Spain, you will absolutely love the food.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn
• Travel Tip: Get the Barik card for discounted public transport

3. Burgos, Castile and León

Moving inland to Castile and León we have Burgos, a fantastic place to discover authentic Spain. It’s position in the north of Spain makes it an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. If you are walking the route, make Burgos one of your overnight stops.

Burgos is famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral, Monastery of Las Huelgas and pilgrimage route. Its links with religion and the Camino make Burgos a traditional city to visit, one that harks back to a bygone Spain. The cuisine is also fantastic – think morcilla (black pudding), roast lamb and other hearty dishes – perfect for the weary pilgrim.

• Top Attractions: Burgos Cathedral, Monastery of Las Huelgas, Camino route
• Cuisine: Morcilla (black pudding), roast lamb, regional wines
• Best Time to Visit: The summer heat is oppressive with temperatures exceeding 35C, so visit Burgos in spring and autumn.
• Travel Tip: Burgos is about 4 hours by train from Madrid, making it accessible for non-pilgrims too

4. Badajoz, Extremadura

Not a regular stop on the tourist trail, those searching for authentic Spain should consider Badajoz. Located in the agricultural region of Extremadura, and mere miles from the Portuguese border, Badajoz is as far from tourist Spain as you can get and a real Spanish hidden gem.

Visitors to Badajoz will discover a fortress city with a lovely old town and an impressive Alcazaba. With Portuguese influences being close to the border and some great cuisine, Badajoz is Spain at its most authentic. Having been there twice, I can confidently say that it is the Spain that tourists miss!

• Top Attractions: Alcazaba fortress, Cathedral, Archaeological Museum
• Cuisine: Extremaduran ham, regional cheeses, hearty stews
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures. Avoid the summer months as temperatures can reach 40C and above!
• Travel Tip: If you want to visit Badajoz, choose either Seville or Lisbon and hire a car. You can also get there via Madrid, but the coach journey is around 5.5 hours.

5. Benidorm, Valencia

In total contrast to Badajoz, Benidorm is arguably Spain’s most touristic destination. Located on the coast in the Valencia region, Benidorm benefits from great weather all year round making it a popular holiday destination.

Once a small fishing village, Benidorm underwent extreme development, and its skyline is now one of skyscrapers. Benidorm definitely divides opinions – you’ll either love it or hate it but there’s no denying its appeal to millions of visitors.

If you’re looking for a cheap holiday and fun in the sun, no town can compare to Benidorm.

• Top Attractions: Levante Beach, Poniente Beach, Terra Mítica theme park
• Cuisine: Valencia is one of Spain’s best regions for food. Check out the paella valenciana, fresh seafood and horchata for some authentic Valencian cuisine.
• Best Time to Visit: Benidorm has good weather all year round. The best for beach time is late spring to early autumn, avoiding those peak summer crowds.
• Travel Tip: Book accommodation early during summer peak season. The resort is very popular and fills up quickly.

6. Baeza, Andalusia

Hidden away in the olive groves of Jaén province, Baeza is one of Andalusia’s best-kept secrets. This Renaissance gem is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels wonderfully untouched by mass tourism – you’ll have its golden stone streets largely to yourself.

What makes Baeza special is its incredible collection of Renaissance architecture. The Cathedral and Palace of Jabalquinto are absolutely stunning, whilst the old university quarter transports you back to Spain’s golden age. Walking through Baeza feels like stepping into a living museum, but one where locals still go about their daily lives.

Being in the heart of olive oil country, the food here is exceptional. You’re surrounded by some of Spain’s finest olive groves, so every meal comes drizzled with liquid gold. It’s authentic Andalusia without the crowds – exactly what many travellers are searching for but struggle to find.

• Top Attractions: Cathedral, Palace of Jabalquinto, Plaza del Pópulo
• Cuisine: World-class olive oil, traditional Andalusian dishes, local pastries
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn to avoid the scorching Andalusian summer heat
• Travel Tip: Combine with nearby Úbeda for a Renaissance double-header – they’re just 9km apart and both UNESCO sites.

7. Buñol, Valencia

Buñol in Valencia may be a small town, but it is one of the most famous in Spain for its unique festival – La Tomatina! Each year in August, residents and tourists descend upon Buñol’s streets for one of the world’s largest and most famous food fights. With trucks of tomatoes dumped onto the streets, everyone spends a few hours launching tomatoes at each other.

This unique experience has truly put Buñol on the map, but if getting hit by tomatoes isn’t your thing, the town has some beautiful castle ruins and traditional architecture to admire. Being located in the Valencian Community, the town is also a hotbed for great cuisine – think paella, local wines and Mediterranean specialities. If you’re looking for a unique Spanish experience or a place to relax away from the tourists, put Buñol at the top of your list.

• Top Attractions: La Tomatina festival (August), castle ruins, traditional architecture
• Cuisine: Valencian paella, local wines & Mediterranean specialities
• Best Time to Visit: Late August for La Tomatina, spring for sightseeing
• Travel Tip: Book accommodation months ahead if visiting for the festival – it is incredibly popular and Buñol isn’t very big.

8. Betanzos, Galicia

Picture perfect Betanzos is one of Galicia’s best-kept secrets. This medieval town, located just 25 minutes from A Coruña, feels like stepping back in time with its cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture. What makes Betanzos special is how authentically Galician it remains – you’ll hear more Galego spoken here than Spanish!

The town sits beautifully at the confluence of two rivers, giving it a romantic setting that’s perfect for wandering. The Church of San Francisco is absolutely stunning, and the old quarter is filled with charming squares where locals gather for their evening paseo. It’s the kind of place where you can sit in a traditional taberna, enjoy some empanadas, and watch Galician life unfold around you.

Betanzos is also famous for its festivals, particularly during summer when the town comes alive with traditional Galician music and dancing. If you’re staying in A Coruña or exploring the Rías Altas, this medieval gem deserves at least half a day of your time.

• Top Attractions: Church of San Francisco, medieval old quarter, riverside walks
• Cuisine: Galician seafood, traditional empanadas, local Ribeiro wines
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for festivals and warmest weather
• Travel Tip: Easy 25-minute drive from A Coruña – perfect for combining with coastal exploration

9. Baza, Andalusia

For those seeking authentic Andalusia away from the tourist crowds, Baza is an absolute hidden gem. This ancient town in Granada province has been continuously inhabited since Iberian times, making it one of Spain’s most historically significant settlements. What’s remarkable is how few tourists know about it – you’ll have this archaeological treasure largely to yourself.

Baza’s claim to fame is the incredible “Dama de Baza,” an Iberian sculpture discovered here that’s now one of Spain’s most important archaeological finds. The local Archaeological Museum tells the fascinating story of this ancient settlement, whilst the Church of Santa María showcases beautiful Mudéjar architecture. The town also boasts natural thermal baths that have been used since Roman times.

Walking through Baza’s streets feels like discovering a secret. The locals are genuinely surprised and delighted to see visitors, and you’ll experience that authentic Andalusian hospitality that’s becoming harder to find in more touristy destinations. It’s the perfect place to slow down and soak up real Spanish culture.

• Top Attractions: Archaeological Museum, Church of Santa María, Roman thermal baths
• Cuisine: Granada-style tapas, exceptional local olive oil, traditional Arab sweets
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable exploring weather
• Travel Tip: Perfect base for exploring the lesser-known eastern side of Andalusia

10. Begur, Catalonia

Begur is one of the Costa Brava’s most charming coastal villages. Located in Catalonia, it is a popular resort with local Catalan people, meaning an authentic experience. One of my good friends from Barcelona, who now lives in the US visits Begur religiously each summer. It is her favourite beach spot in Catalonia, and if it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for me!

Begur is blessed with stunning beaches and pristine coves. Its relaxed vibe is perfect for forgetting your worries and makes for a great contrast with Barcelona. With a medieval castle and fresh seafood, Begur is both the perfect day trip from Barcelona and a destination in its own right.

• Top Attractions: Medieval castle, hidden beaches, coastal walks
• Cuisine: Fresh seafood, Catalan specialities, local wines
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for beach activities
• Travel Tip: Rent a car to explore the surrounding hidden beaches

11. Benavente, Castile and León

Benavente may not be on every tourist’s radar, but this historic crossroads town has been welcoming travellers for centuries. Located in the heart of Castile and León, Benavente sits at the intersection of ancient trade routes, making it a strategic stop that’s retained its importance through the ages.

The town’s crowning glory is the impressive castle ruins perched above the old quarter. What remains of the medieval fortress offers fantastic views over the surrounding countryside and gives you a real sense of Benavente’s strategic importance throughout Spanish history. The Church of Santa María del Azogue is another gem – its Romanesque architecture is absolutely beautiful and well worth the visit.

What I love about places like Benavente is their authenticity. This is working Spain, where locals go about their daily business in centuries-old surroundings. The food is hearty Castilian fare – think excellent roast meats, local cheeses, and robust regional wines. It’s the perfect place to experience real Spanish life away from the tourist trail.

• Top Attractions: Medieval castle ruins, Church of Santa María del Azogue, historic old town
• Cuisine: Traditional Castilian roasts, artisan local cheeses, robust regional wines
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable walking weather
• Travel Tip: Perfect strategic base for exploring León, Zamora, and northwest Spain

12. Brihuega, Castile-La Mancha

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Provence but want to stay in Spain, then Brihuega is your answer! This charming medieval town in Castile-La Mancha has become famous across Spain for its spectacular lavender fields that bloom every July, creating a purple paradise that rivals anything you’ll find in France.

But Brihuega is much more than just lavender. The town’s medieval walls and architecture are beautifully preserved, and wandering through its cobbled streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The Church of San Felipe is particularly stunning, and the entire old quarter has an enchanting quality that makes it perfect for photography enthusiasts.

What makes Brihuega extra special is how it’s embraced its lavender fame without losing its authentic character. During lavender season, the fields stretch as far as the eye can see in brilliant purple, whilst the local honey made from lavender flowers is absolutely divine. It’s become quite popular with Spanish tourists in recent years, but it still feels wonderfully unspoilt.

• Top Attractions: Lavender fields, medieval town walls, Church of San Felipe
• Cuisine: Traditional La Mancha dishes, lavender honey, Manchego cheese
• Best Time to Visit: July for peak lavender bloom, early autumn for harvest festivals
• Travel Tip: Book accommodation early if visiting during lavender season – it’s become Spain’s answer to Provence!

13. Bermeo, Basque Country

Bermeo is everything you imagine a traditional Basque fishing village should be – and more! This authentic port town on the Basque coast is a world away from the modern transformation of nearby Bilbao. Here, colourful fishermen’s houses line the harbour, and the sound of Euskera (Basque language) fills the air as the day’s catch is brought ashore.

What makes Bermeo truly special is how it’s maintained its maritime soul. The old port is still very much a working harbour, and you can visit the excellent Fisherman’s Museum to understand the deep connection between this town and the sea. The locals are incredibly proud of their fishing heritage, and it shows in every corner of this charming place.

Bermeo is also your gateway to one of the Basque Country’s most iconic sights – San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. This dramatic rocky islet connected by a stone bridge has become famous worldwide (thanks to Game of Thrones!), but it’s been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. After exploring the town, the fresh seafood here is absolutely incredible – some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Spain.

• Top Attractions: Historic fishing port, Fisherman’s Museum, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (nearby)
• Cuisine: Ultra-fresh fish, traditional Basque seafood, crisp txakoli wine
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for warmest weather and vibrant local festivals
• Travel Tip: Perfect base for exploring the wild Basque coastline and its dramatic cliff-top hermitages

14. Blanes, Catalonia

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Costa Brava’, Blanes is one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal towns. Situated in Catalonia, around 70km up the coast from Barcelona, Blanes has 4km of sandy beaches and a stunning botanical garden.

Surprisingly for the Costa Brava, Blanes has avoided the tourist excesses of nearby towns such as Lloret de Mar, making it the perfect getaway for people wanting a quieter holiday. The Sa Palomera Rock marks the official start of the Costa Brava with a gate sculpture, whilst the Marimurtra Botanical Garden attracts 300,000+ visitors yearly.

Blanes is also famous for its 13th-century Castle of Sant Joan and its annual fireworks competitions in the final week of July. It’s been described as the ‘best free fireworks display in Spain’. With so many different attractions and relatively fewer tourists, Blanes is the perfect quiet starting point on the Costa Brava.

• Top Attractions: Marimurtra Botanical Garden, beaches, old town
• Cuisine: Mediterranean seafood, Catalan dishes, local wines
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn
• Travel Tip: Easy 1-hour train journey from Barcelona makes it perfect for day trips or as a base

15. Baiona, Galicia

For those looking for a town with historical significance, look no further than Baiona in Galicia. This historic coastal fortress town is where Columbus’s discovery news first reached Europe. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, it is a great summer option where the weather is cooler than other regions.

With a stunning old town, parador fortress and a beach, this town really does have everything. Unknown to tourists, you’ll get an authentic version of Spain and try some Galician seafood. The seafood in this region is some of the best in Europe. Make sure you try the pulpo a la gallega (octopus) which is a Galician speciality.

Having been to Galicia in summer 2023, Baiona is high on my list for my next Galicia trip. I love visiting lesser known places in Spain and Baiona fits right into this category – I can’t wait to explore it.

• Top Attractions: Parador fortress, old town, waterfront promenade
• Cuisine: Galician seafood, pulpo a la gallega, Albariño wine
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for warmest weather
• Travel Tip: Base yourself here to explore the Rías Baixas wine region – perfect for seafood and Albariño wine pairing

Regional Spotlight: Where in Spain Are These ‘B’ Places?

Where do all these ‘B’ places sit on the map, and what makes each region so unique. From the sunny beaches of Catalonia to fun-filled festivals of Valencia, these ‘B’ destinations offer more than just pretty names. Let’s take a closer look at how they group regionally and what cultural delights you can expect along the way. 

These ‘B’ destinations showcase Spain’s incredible geographic diversity — from Mediterranean beaches to Atlantic fishing ports and inland medieval towns. Understanding where each destination sits regionally helps you plan efficient travel routes and appreciate how Spain’s varied landscapes have shaped the unique character of each ‘B’ location.

• Catalonia: Barcelona leads the way as a cultural capital, whilst Begur and Blanes offer coastal charm along the Costa Brava. Each showcases different aspects of Catalan culture from cosmopolitan city life to traditional fishing villages.
• Basque Country: Bilbao represents urban renewal and modern culture, while Bermeo maintains traditional maritime heritage. Both offer exceptional cuisine and unique Basque identity.
• Andalusia: Baeza brings Renaissance architecture, whilst Baza offers archaeological treasures. These destinations showcase Andalusia’s layered history from Iberian to Moorish to Christian influences.
• Galicia: Betanzos and Baiona provide authentic Galician experiences with Celtic influences, spectacular seafood, and Atlantic coastline drama.
• Valencia: Benidorm offers modern resort life, Buñol brings festival fun, both representing different sides of Valencian culture.
• Castile and León: Burgos and Benavente connect visitors to Spain’s medieval heritage and the famous Camino pilgrimage route.
• Other Regions: Badajoz (Extremadura) and Brihuega (Castile-La Mancha) offer off-the-beaten-path experiences in Spain’s less visited interior.

Culture & Cuisine Across the ‘B’ Cities 

What makes exploring Spain’s ‘B’ destinations so fascinating is the incredible cultural diversity you’ll encounter. From Basque fishing traditions to Andalusian Renaissance heritage, each location offers its own unique story and flavours.

• Basque Influence: Cities like Bilbao and Bermeo showcase Spain’s most distinctive regional culture, with pintxos bars, unique language, and innovative cuisine that has earned international recognition.
• Mediterranean Flavours: Barcelona, Begur, Benidorm, and Blanes offer classic Mediterranean experiences with fresh seafood, beach culture, and outdoor dining that epitomises Spanish coastal living.
• Historical Heritage: Burgos, Baeza, and Badajoz preserve centuries of Spanish history, from Gothic cathedrals to Renaissance palaces, offering glimpses into the country’s rich architectural legacy.
• Festival Culture: Buñol’s La Tomatina represents Spain’s love for unique celebrations, whilst other B cities host their own local festivals celebrating everything from saints’ days to harvest seasons.
• Regional Specialities: Each destination offers distinct culinary experiences – from Basque pintxos to Valencian paella, Galician seafood to Andalusian tapas.

Whether you’re sampling fresh seafood in a Galician port or exploring ancient archaeology in a quiet Andalusian town, these ‘B’ destinations demonstrate Spain’s remarkable ability to surprise and delight at every turn.

Travel Tips for Exploring Spain’s ‘A’ Cities 

Planning your adventure through Spain’s ‘B’ destinations? Whether you’re drawn to coastal escapes or historic inland towns, here are essential tips to help you make the most of your Spanish journey.

Getting Around 

• Major Hubs: Barcelona and Bilbao have international airports and excellent train connections to other Spanish cities.
• Regional Transport: High-speed AVE trains connect Barcelona to Madrid, whilst regional trains serve smaller destinations like Burgos along the Madrid-Bilbao route.
• Car Rental: Essential for exploring coastal areas like Begur and Blanes, or reaching smaller inland towns like Brihuega and Baza.
• Local Transport: Cities like Barcelona and Bilbao have excellent metro systems, whilst smaller towns are easily walkable.

Best Time to Visit 

• Coastal Destinations: Late spring through early autumn (May-September) for beach weather and outdoor activities.
• Inland Cities: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and walking.
• Festival Timing: Plan around specific events like La Tomatina in Buñol (late August) or lavender season in Brihuega (July).

Quick Tips 

• Accommodation: Book well in advance for Barcelona and during festival periods in smaller towns.
• Language: Catalan is spoken alongside Spanish in Catalonia, Euskera in the Basque Country, and Galician in Galicia.
• Dining: Lunch is typically 2-4pm, dinner after 9pm. Many restaurants close on Sundays or Mondays in smaller towns.
• Siesta: Shops and museums may close 2-5pm, especially in smaller destinations.

Final Thoughts: 15 Beautiful Places in Spain Beginning with ‘B’

From Barcelona’s architectural marvels to Burgos’s Gothic grandeur, these 15 ‘B’ cities and towns demonstrate Spain’s incredible diversity within a single letter of the alphabet. Whether you’re drawn to Basque culture in Bilbao, Renaissance beauty in Baeza, or coastal charm in Begur, Spain’s ‘B’ destinations offer authentic experiences across every region.

Ready to continue your alphabetical journey through Spain? Don’t miss our popular guide to places in Spain beginning with A for even more travel inspiration, and let us know which of these brilliant ‘B’ destinations you’ll be adding to your Spanish adventure list!