13 Scenic Places in Spain That Are Perfect for Settling Down
Thinking about moving abroad? Spain keeps popping up on every “best places to live” list — and for good reason. Endless sunshine, warm Mediterranean vibes, delicious food, affordable living, and a culture that knows how to enjoy life… basically, Spain is the dream. But with so many beautiful regions, how do you pick the perfect place to call home?
Don’t worry — I’ve done the heavy lifting. Here are 13 scenic places in Spain that are perfect for settling down, whether you’re planning a peaceful retirement, remote working, or starting a new chapter in sunny Europe.
1. Valencia – Sunshine, Safety, and Sea Breezes
Valencia is one of those cities where you can live a balanced life without sacrificing modern conveniences. It’s affordable, clean, and safe — pretty much everything you want when settling down. The beaches are gorgeous, the old town is charming, and the food scene is unmatched (hello, birthplace of paella!). The public transport is smooth, and you get plenty of green space thanks to the Turia River Park. Valencia’s calm-but-not-boring energy makes it perfect for long-term living.
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2. Málaga – Costa del Sol’s Warm and Welcoming Hub
If sunshine is your top priority, Málaga is your paradise. With more than 300 sunny days a year, this coastal city attracts retirees, digital nomads, and families alike. The city is vibrant enough to keep you busy but mellow enough for a relaxed lifestyle. You’ll enjoy friendly locals, excellent healthcare, delicious seafood, and a much lower cost of living compared to major Western cities. Plus, living near the beach never gets old.
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3. Alicante – A Coastal Dream with Affordable Living
Alicante combines affordability with postcard-worthy scenery. Think palm-lined boulevards, golden beaches, and a cozy marina. Expat communities thrive here, making the transition easier. The climate is warm year-round, rents are surprisingly reasonable, and the pace of life is blissfully slow. It’s the perfect place if you want beach life without blowing your budget.
4. Seville – For Lovers of Culture and Timeless Beauty
If you dream of living somewhere that feels like a movie set, choose Seville. This Andalusian gem is full of flamenco, Moorish architecture, orange-tree-lined streets, and romantic plazas. While summers get hot, the rest of the year is beautiful. Living here means delicious tapas, friendly people, and endless cultural events. Seville is ideal for anyone who wants a scenic, soulful, and authentically Spanish lifestyle.
5. Granada – Affordable Mountain Views and Moorish Magic
Granada is one of the most scenic cities in Spain, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains and filled with breathtaking history like the Alhambra Palace. It’s also extremely affordable — especially for housing and food. The student energy keeps the city lively, yet it still feels peaceful and traditional. If you want a mountain-meets-culture lifestyle, Granada is a top choice.
6. Barcelona – Urban Energy with Mediterranean Views
Barcelona is a dream for those who want a mix of city life and nature. You get beaches, mountains, parks, and stunning architecture by Gaudí — all wrapped in a cosmopolitan atmosphere. While it’s a bit pricier than other cities on this list, it offers top-quality healthcare, international schools, excellent infrastructure, and a dynamic job market. If you’re settling down as a professional or entrepreneur, Barcelona gives you endless opportunities.
7. Bilbao – Green Hills, Modern Architecture, and a Peaceful Pace
Bilbao often surprises people. It’s lush, green, and surrounded by rolling hills. The city is super clean, safe, and known for its gourmet food scene (Basque cuisine is next-level). The Guggenheim Museum is here, adding modern charm to traditional surroundings. If you prefer cooler weather and a quieter lifestyle, Bilbao may be your perfect match.
8. Palma de Mallorca – Island Life with Modern Comforts
Imagine living on an island where crystal-clear waters meet charming old towns — all while still having access to good healthcare, international schools, and an established expat community. Palma offers exactly that. Mallorca’s relaxed pace, hiking trails, beaches, and Mediterranean cuisine attract people from all over the world. It’s paradise… with Wi-Fi.
9. Marbella – Luxury Living on the Costa del Sol
If settling down means treating yourself, Marbella is your destination. It’s scenic, chic, and known for upscale living — but don’t worry, not everything is pricey. There are quiet neighborhoods, gorgeous mountain views, and lots of sunny beaches. Marbella’s international community is strong, so you’ll feel welcomed instantly. It’s perfect for retirees, remote workers, and anyone craving a beautiful, polished lifestyle.
10. Girona – Medieval Beauty Surrounded by Nature
Girona is a stunning city full of medieval walls, stone houses, and charming riverside pathways. It’s peaceful, extremely safe, and well-connected to Barcelona and the French border. Cyclists, nature lovers, and families adore Girona because it offers a slower pace with tons of outdoor adventure. The food is amazing too — Catalonia rarely disappoints.
11. San Sebastián – Gourmet Heaven with Dreamy Beaches
San Sebastián (Donostia) is one of the most scenic coastal cities in Europe. La Concha Beach alone looks like a painting. Add in elegant promenades, world-famous restaurants, and a peaceful atmosphere, and you’ll see why people fall in love with this place. It’s great for anyone who loves beauty, food, and a calm coastal lifestyle.
12. Cádiz – Laid-Back Seaside Living with Ancient Charm
Cádiz is one of Europe’s oldest cities, and living here feels like stepping into a coastal fairytale. Bright buildings, winding streets, delicious seafood, and Atlantic beaches define this historic gem. It’s quieter, more affordable, and less touristy than many other Spanish cities. People who want scenic ocean views, gentle weather, and a slow lifestyle adore Cádiz.
13. Tenerife (Canary Islands) – Eternal Spring and Volcano Views
If year-round spring weather appeals to you, Tenerife might be the ultimate place to settle down. The island’s landscapes look unreal — volcanic peaks, black-sand beaches, forests, and charming villages. Despite being an island, Tenerife has excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and plenty of expats. Whether you want coastal living or mountain retreats, this island gives you both.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Call Home?
Spain is one of the world’s most scenic and livable countries, and these 13 destinations prove it. Whether you want beaches, mountains, historic cities, or island life, there’s a beautiful corner of Spain waiting for you.
Settling down is a big decision — but in Spain, it’s also an exciting and beautiful one. So what’s your vibe? Sunny beach town? Cultural capital? Quiet mountain escape? Whatever you choose, you’ll be living the good life — the Spanish way.
