Sure, Spain’s got the fun-in-the-sun formula down to a T. But tradition runs rich through its veins too. So, this year, why not take the road less travelled and uncover the country’s more authentic side? We’ve put together a handy guide to the lesser-known spots on our favourite Costas to make the planning even easier.  

Costa de la Luz  

The best of southern Spain 

Welcome to a region where you can watch flamenco dancers spin their stories, delve into a melting pot of cultures and sample centuries-old recipes, all in one trip. There are plenty of ways to fill your days, whether you’re trekking through whitewashed, hillside villages or visiting the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Did you know that 2026 is the Year of the Horse? So, there’s never been a better time to visit! Bit of a foodie? You can expect a seafood slant, with fishermen hauling in the Mediterranean’s daily delights. Tuck into pescaíto frito (fried fish) at a beachfront chiringuito for sea-to-table perfection. 

Costa Brava  

Coves, castles and Catalan charm 

Nature and the Costa Brava go together like Spain and tapas. You can wind your way through forests, meadows and time-warp towns in Cap de Creus Natural Park or look out for flamingos and herons at Aiguamolls de l’Emporda Natural Park. When it comes to wining and dining, the countryside is carpeted in rolling vineyards that everyone from seasoned sommeliers to casual sippers will love. Art aficionados can visit a trio of sights across the region to get their dose of Dalí too.   

Costa de Almería 

Space to slow down 

Welcome to one of the country’s most underrated coastlines. At its heart lies Mojacar. It’s more off grid than some of its bigger siblings, which makes what it delivers to holidaymakers particularly impressive. Not only can you visit the hill fort and laze on mile-long sands, but you can also set sail on a boat trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Volcanic landscapes, towering cliffs and secluded beaches such as Playa de los Genoveses and Monsul create show-stopping scenes that’ll fill your camera roll. 

Costa del Sol  

Beyond the beach clubs 

The Costa del Sol is synonymous with glamour, golf courses and nightlife, but venture inland and you’ll discover a completely different world. The mountainside village of Mijas is the go-to place if you’re eagerly seeking an authentic drop of Spain. The hillsides are all painted white and terracotta, contrasting to the blue of the sea below. Tapas bars, locally owned cafés and water sports are all for the taking too. Even along the coast, you can still find low-key locales if you know where to look. Playa de Maro, near the cliffs of Nerja, is a protected beach known for its sparkling waters. 

Costa Blanca 

Uncover the quiet corners 

Come along to the Costa Blanca and you’ll soon see there’s all sorts bubbling beneath the surface. Here, villages like Guadalest shine a spotlight on the region’s slower pace of life. A little tunnel carved into the rock takes you to the bell tower and old Moorish castle. Meanwhile, the quaint streets and squares are filled with cafés, craft shops and museums. We’d recommend adding Altea to your must-visit list too. It sits north of Alicante and still dazzles with the same charm it first had back in the 1950s, when it plotted itself on the tourist map. Wander the cobbled streets, old quarter and pretty promenade, and save hours to hit the market or pedal the local cycling routes.