10 cities in Spain to visit for a homestay

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Spain is a fantastic country, full of diverse landscapes, a multitude of lively cultural festivals and some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Here are 10 of our favourite cities throughout the country for you to sample all Spain has to offer and a homestay host in each place who can show you the true local experience.


1. Pamplona

Colourful streets of Pamplona

The beautiful city of Pamplona in the north of Spain is best known for the festival associated with its co-patron saint, San Fermín. The festival of San Fermín, more commonly known as the Pamplona Bull Run, sees a host of activities including seven days of encierro festivities where brave soles race through the streets of Pamplona, followed by six bulls and six steers. The objective is to make it to the end of the course where the victorious runners make their way into the bullring. If tempting fate isn't for you, there's so much more to take in from the stunning buildings to the winding streets of the old town and Plaza del Castillo which always welcomes you with an energetic atmosphere.

Stay in Pamplona with Maty.

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2. Zaragoza

Night view of Zaragoza across the water

Zaragoza is located to the east of Barcelona and is the capital city of the region of Aragon. With a long history, you'll soon notice the influence of the Moors on this city, especially when it comes to the beautiful architecture of the buildings that line its streets. If you've time, pay a visit to the Caesar Augusta Theatre Museum to see the impressive remains of the spectacular old Roman theatre. And if you're travelling with children, make sure to stop by Zaragoza's aquarium which is the largest freshwater aquarium in Europe!

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Stay in Zaragoza with Sofia.

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3. Barcelona

Park Guell Barcelona

Having lived here myself, I'm a little biassed that this is one of the best cities in Spain but Barcelona truly does offer something for every kind of traveller. From the beautiful beaches to delectable Catalan cuisine, to the rich culture and history and the stunning architecture, this city will please even the most particular of travellers. That's before you mention the exciting football matches at Camp Nou stadium, the nightlife at the multitude of fantastic bars and the jaw dropping detail inside of the Sagrada Familia cathedral.

Stay in Barcelona with Morena.

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4. Valencia

Castle view looking out to sea

Valencia is located on the country's east coast and is the third-largest city in Spain. It's also home to two of Spain's most famous festivals: Las Fallas (held in March) where intricate, stunning fallas or floats, are displayed in a parade and then burned to cinders. Then there's La Tomatina, a tomato-throwing festival which takes place in Plaza del Pueblo attracting 30,000 visitors annually to nearby town of Buñol. Try the Paella Valenciana while you're there too, the town is the reported birthplace of Spain's most famous seafood dish.

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Stay in Valencia with Guillermo.

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5. Granada

View of Alhambra, Granada

The city of Granada is divided into six districts: The Albaicin, Bib-Rambla, Cartuja, Realejo, Sacormonte and Zaidin. Each has its own distinct character and many are still heavily influenced by the city's rich Moorish history. It truly is a place to get lost exploring and this is best done on foot to fully appreciate the winding roads as you move from one district to another. Make sure to book your tickets to visit the spectacular Alhambra Palace in advance, you can do this online and you definitely won't want to miss out. If you have time, catch the best view of the city at Mirador de San Nicolas, you won't be disappointed.

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Stay in Granada with Rosa.

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6. Seville

Alcazar Royal Palace Seville

Seville is a wonderful city, full to the brim with a colourful, rich culture and ornate style all of its own. Credited as the city where tapas originated, it would be a sin not to sample the delights here and you'll find an abundance of great tapas bars throughout the city. Make time to see the Alcázar royal palace, the seat of Moorish power. Filled with intricate geometric designs, it's simply breathtaking and must be seen for oneself.

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Stay in Seville with Marisa.

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7. Salamanca

Salamanca lit up at night

Discover the beauty of Salamanca and its stunning sandstone structures as you stroll through this energetic city. Declared a world heritage city by UNESCO, there is plenty to see including the Catedral Vieja and the famous Universidad de Salamanca campus. If you do visit the university, make sure to find the frog on the facade, a time-honored tradition. As one of the more popular cities for students studying abroad, you'll notice that Salamanca is filled with very international inhabitants. Take time out to grab a coffee in Plaza Mayor and enjoy some of the best people watching you'll see anywhere while soaking up the atmosphere.

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Stay in Salamanca with Carlos Raúl.

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8. Santiago de Compostela

City view of Santiago de Compostela

The final destination of the Camino de Santiago, a hike of over 1,000 kilometres based on the pilgrimage made by Saint James, Santiago de Compostela is a city that has an old world feel, even by Spanish standards. While there are many versions of this mammoth hike taken by travellers all routes end in Santiago de Compostela, where hikers traditionally finish at the Tomb of Saint James in the cathedral of the city. Hiking aside, there's lots to take in during your visit with the streets filled with quirky, independent shops and stylish, old-fashioned cafés. One of our favourite spots however is to venture up to Mirador Parque da Alameda where you'll catch fantastic sunsets while overlooking the city.

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Stay in Santiago de Compostela with Ana.

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9. Oviedo

Small plaza in the town

Oviedo is a picturesque town in the northern part of Spain and isthe capital of the Asturias region. The town is known as the beginning of the original Camino de Santiago and is a place that's steeped in Spanish history. These days it's commonly known as a university town and is popular with Erasmus students as well as natives. Sample the local food while you're there and you'll be in for a treat. Try Fabada Asturiana, a traditional slow-cooked dish consisting of beans, paprika, chorizo and bacon in a rich tomato sauce, and check out our local expert's tips for a visit to the city.

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Stay in Oviedo with Mar.

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10. Madrid

Plaza de Cibeles in Madrid

Last but not least is of course the Spanish capital. Madrid has everything you'd want in a city break, from the abundance of museums to suit all interests, to the stunning architecture and fantastic finds for dining and drinking the local culture. Enjoy the ambience in Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, or take time out in Retiro Park where you can rent rowing boats or simply enjoy the sunshine under the shade of a tree. Our list of tips and eateries in the city should be a good starting point for your foodie travels.

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Stay in Madrid with Charo.


Interested in discovering this beautiful country for yourself? Check out our homestays in Spain to find the host that's right for you.


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