Summer is undeniably the busiest time of the year in Spain. Everywhere’s literally jam-packed, especially coastal cities and famous attractions. The beach, above all else, is spilling with crowds and finding a space is close to impossible. This is the reason why a number of tourists avoid this season, because summer in Spain is crammed with people.
Aside from the huge crowds, travelers can also expect even higher prices for accommodation, food, tours, and attraction tickets. Summer is peak season, and everything costs a lot more when traveling at this time.
Above all these inconveniences, there’s always a silver lining, and that is the sunny weather. For those who longed the warmth of the sun, visiting Spain in Mid August is a great idea. The temperatures are higher than early June or July, but there are no rain showers that can ruin long walks to the narrow alleys.
Here are 10 summer destinations that are away from the crowds.
Summer in Spain: 10 Crowd-Free Destinations
Asturias
For nature lovers, the scenic landscapes of Asturias make up for a wonderful trip. This small community in northwest Spain is known for the rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and picturesque biking routes. Seaside towns are worthy to visit to see some hidden gems like pre-Romanesque monuments and national parks.
Because summer in Spain is hectic, travelers would want to visit a destination with lesser crowds. Asturias has a number of beautiful beaches that are almost secluded. It’s still touristy, but not totally busy compared to other parts of the country.
Some of the points of interest in this quaint province are Picos de Europa National Park, Llanos village, Oviedo Cathedral, and Gijón.
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Menorca
The more family friendly island counterpart of Ibiza and Mallorca is Menorca. It sits in the Mediterranean Sea, showcasing powdery sand beaches, azure-blue waters, and whitewashed villages. This is a great beach destination in summer because the crowd is relatively smaller than its neighboring islands.
A more serene ambiance is felt, perfect for dreamy afternoons and lazy mornings. Calas Macarella’s virgin waters, combined with a phenomenal view of the sea is what paradise looks like. Visitors can also trek going to Cala Escorxada for a more secluded beach.
To experience the best of Balearic islands, make sure to visit the inland towns as well as the restaurants scattered around. The caldereta de langosta or lobster stew, is like a party in the mouth for the rich taste of the lobster’s meat and the buttery sauce.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Menorca.
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Tarifa
There’s simply no denying that Andalucia is a melting pot of culture. It’s not only picturesque in every city, but unraveling the history and culture spilling from each destination is the highlight of the visit. In a province of Cadiz, a small municipality called Tarifa can be found.
Popular for surfing enthusiasts, this town has the most scenic beaches in southern Spain. Due to the heavy winds, people come here to ride the waves. It gives off an Ibiza ambiance, only with less crowd and brimming with Andalusian charm.
Tarifa is a great place to enjoy summer in Spain for the enchanting spots like Arcos de la Frontera, and overlooking hills at Mijas Pueblo.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Tarifa
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Cantabria
The seamless blur of green and blue is what locals can recall of Cantabria—coastal paradise with a refreshing countryside backdrop. More than the lovely waves of the Cantabrian Sea, the municipality has the most dramatic cliffs and sandy dunes. Beaches like Playa de Oyambre have distinct, pure sands that simply melts into the tide.
Visiting here also means getting to know some of Antoni Gaudí’s footprints, including the El Capricho palace. The design resembles Gaudí’s unique perspective, coupled with colorful tiles, almost similar to those buildings in Barcelona. The good thing is, travelers don’t need to experience the long lines, because this attraction is crowd-free.
There’s also the Cuevas de Altamira, sporting the prehistoric cave paintings, which date back to the Old Stone Age. Overall, Cantabria is a spectacular destination for those longing for a beach break and cultural exploration.
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Navarra
When the summer heat is running dry, the best way to do is to head to the north and visit Navarra. One of Spain’s most peaceful destinations borders the Basque Country, with relatively lower temperatures in July and August. It’s pretty popular for the unique geological structures and the greeny landscapes surrounding the region.
Biking around provides an opportunity to see the best landscapes in Navarra. The Via Verde town has an impressive trail overlooking the rolling hills, century-old tunnels, and rugged cliffs. Underground marvels are also in this region, showcasing tall stalagmites deep within the Mendukilo cave.
Before leaving, make sure to visit a pub and catch a Basque cider from a barrel. Locals shout txotx to toast or call everyone who wants to catch the cider on their glasses. Doing so adds bubbles to the beverage, and in turn, provides a more refreshing feeling while gulping a beer. What a perfect way to cool down during the summer in Spain.
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Lugo
The dramatic rock formations on the northwest coast of Spain can be found in Lugo province. Playa de las Catedrales has a multitude of stone arches that disappear during high tide. A long stretch of sand has this iconic natural feature, which resembles the Gothic cathedrals in the country. For this, most people call it the ‘Beach of the Holy Waters.’
Lugo in general is picturesque, highlighting the intact Roman wall that has a UNESCO World Heritage status. Lovely parks and vibrant plazas can be found here, along with the Old Town and vineyards.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Lugo.
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Ourense
Galicia is blessed with romantic cities like Ourense, spilling with magnificent buildings, ancient bridges, and other architectural wonders. Out of all the cities, Ourense is probably the least visited, but there are lots to see here and experience.
Monasteries are nestled in this quaint city, rubbing elbows with open squares, Baroque Cathedrals, and medieval district. The crowd is definitely low compared to Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, and Vigo.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in Ourense.
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Formentera
For people who love the quiet atmosphere at the Mediterranean beach, this is a prime spot. Formentera is part of the untouched paradise in Spain, known for its back-to-nature holidays at the idyllic beaches.
The pale, turquoise waters are given, and visitors come here for the beautiful diving spots. Exploring the island leads to the discovery of the secluded coves and rural landscapes, which are empty during summer in Spain.
What makes Formentera special is the calming ambiance and top-notch beaches. It’s reachable by a ferry ride, but close to a more busy island Ibiza. Most people also call Formentera as ‘Ibiza’s sister island’ because of their proximity.
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Aragon
At first glance, Aragon looks like a remote medieval kingdom. About 50 miles from the coast, the region has remarkable landscapes and is surrounded by the lush forest. According to some reports, even renowned painter Pablo Picasso loved this place for the serene ambiance and the elegant mansions.
Moving around, travelers can see lots of remnants from the medieval times, from a Renaissance town hall to the spectacular Roman bridge. Visiting the tiny town of Valderrobres provides more opportunities to see a 14th-century castle, the Matarraña river, and the Gothic churches.
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León
Even though León is a small city, it’s brimming with life and adventure. Great, historic buildings can be found here, along with a 16th-century stone monastery, museums, and wineries. The cultural highlights also involve a visit to the Casa Botines, which is a work of the famed architect Gaudí.
León’s gastronomy is also commendable, with cured meats, cheeses, and alcoholic beverages. Wine, cider, beer, and gin are amazing here, best paired with the city’s specialties like Maragato chickpea stew, ox, and Riaño.
Summer in Spain is truly memorable visiting the historic establishments, and tasting the best Spanish dishes. In León, travelers get a glimpse of the past, and at the same time, indulge in the natural wonders surrounding the city.
FIND HOTEL DEALS: Best hotels in León
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For the cooler spring shoulder season, the spring in Spain guide covers the March-May window.
The opposite-season alternative is covered in the winter in Spain guide.