A summer holiday in Spain is no longer associated only with crowded beaches and famous resorts. Many Spaniards prefer completely different destinations. They book small family-run hotels, rent rural cottages, head to national parks or spend their holidays in quiet coastal villages where life remains relaxed even during the busiest weeks of the season. That is why more travellers are asking where Spaniards themselves go on holiday when they want to experience the country beyond its most touristy places.
This approach offers a chance to discover the authentic side of Spain. Instead of queues and packed streets, visitors find local markets, cosy restaurants, historic squares, scenic walking routes and beaches known mainly to people from nearby regions.
Favourite summer destinations among Spanish residents
Every autonomous community has its own favourite places for a summer break. Some head to the Atlantic coast, others escape to the mountains, while many families return year after year to the same small towns where generations have spent their holidays.
Northern Spain: green coastlines and cooler summers
The northern coast remains one of the most popular destinations among Spaniards. Even in July, temperatures are noticeably cooler than in the south, and the scenery is completely different.
Asturias, Cantabria and Galicia are especially popular. Visitors enjoy dramatic cliffs, lush forests, Atlantic beaches and traditional fishing villages. Many travel here for hiking in national parks, fresh seafood and a peaceful atmosphere.
Another advantage is that even during the summer there are far fewer international tourists than along the Mediterranean coast.
Spain's inland regions reveal another side of the country
Those looking for historic architecture, wineries and medieval towns are often advised by locals to visit Castile and León, Navarre, Aragon or Extremadura.
These regions are perfect for spending several days exploring medieval castles, protected natural areas and small villages where everyday life has changed very little over the decades. This style of travel is especially popular with people who enjoy slow journeys and discovering regional cuisine.
Small seaside resorts rarely featured in travel guides
Many local residents deliberately avoid Spain's best-known resorts. Instead, they choose smaller coastal towns that have preserved a relaxed atmosphere.
Family-friendly coastal destinations
Spain's coastline offers dozens of charming places that remain relatively peaceful even during the peak holiday season.
- Lastres in Asturias, known for its picturesque harbour and narrow streets.
- Comillas in Cantabria, famous for its attractive architecture and wide beaches.
- Luarca on the Asturian coast with its traditional fishing harbour.
- San José in Cabo de Gata Natural Park, ideal for crystal-clear waters.
- El Port de la Selva on the Costa Brava, where life is much quieter than at neighbouring resorts.
Each of these towns offers a slower pace of life. Visitors can easily find family-run restaurants, small hotels and local festivals that are rarely included in organised tour itineraries.
Mountain holidays are becoming increasingly popular
While many visitors head for the sea, thousands of Spaniards choose the cooler mountain regions. These holidays combine hiking, local gastronomy and outdoor activities.
National parks loved by local residents
One of the leading destinations is Picos de Europa National Park. Visitors come for hiking trails, mountain lakes and spectacular panoramic views.
The Pyrenees, Sierra de Gredos and the natural landscapes of Aragon are also in high demand. Summer temperatures here are far more comfortable than in southern Spain, making it easy to spend entire days outdoors.
Many families rent rural houses for one or two weeks, combining relaxation with visits to nearby villages and tastings of regional specialities.
Why Spaniards are increasingly choosing rural tourism
Interest in rural tourism in Spain has grown significantly in recent years. This type of holiday allows people to spend time away from busy resorts, discover local traditions and experience the authentic pace of life in the Spanish countryside.
Historic farmhouses, small mountain hotels, wineries and family-run country estates are especially popular. Many visitors come for homemade food, scenic walking routes and a slower way of life.
According to Spain's National Statistics Institute and the national tourism organisation Turespaña, domestic tourism continues to account for a substantial share of summer travel, while demand for rural destinations and lesser-known regions keeps growing steadily.
How Spaniards plan their summer holidays
Most people book their holidays well in advance, particularly if they are travelling in August. Many businesses traditionally close for part of the month, making this the busiest period for popular destinations.
| Popular choice | Why people choose it |
| Small seaside towns | Relaxed atmosphere and fewer visitors |
| Mountain regions | Comfortable summer temperatures |
| Rural houses | Privacy and local cuisine |
| National parks | Walking trails and spectacular scenery |
| Small historic towns | Sightseeing without large crowds |
Many Spaniards also travel by car. This gives them the freedom to stop in small villages, attend local festivals and change their itinerary without following a fixed schedule.
Summer discoveries that stay with you
A genuine Spanish summer holiday rarely revolves around the country's best-known resorts. Many residents prefer the cooler Atlantic coastline, small seaside towns, mountain villages and rural regions where local traditions remain part of everyday life. According to INE and Turespaña, domestic travel continues to play an important role in Spain's tourism culture, while interest in quieter destinations keeps increasing. If, after your trip, you need accommodation, transport, job opportunities or business listings across different regions of Spain, Flagma provides access to all of these.