There are cities in Spain that are highly popular worldwide, whether thanks to their climate, cultural heritage, entertainment opportunities, or other advantages. A number of them are also of great interest to homebuyers, which is reflected in the Idealista ranking.
1. Madrid
- Average sale price – €5,758/m2, rent – €22.8/m2 per month.
According to the latest Idealista data, Spain’s capital is experiencing exceptional pressure on the real estate market. Its appeal lies in job opportunities, a rich cultural, entertainment and gastronomic offering, a well-developed transport network, a very wide selection of homes for sale and rent, top-level services, as well as vibrant city life with plenty of interesting events.
2. Zaragoza
- Average sale price – €2,194/m2, rent – €11.1/m2 per month.
Zaragoza offers an attractive balance: a more moderate cost of living than in major metropolises, a good quality of life, reliable urban infrastructure, a wide range of educational services, and a strategic location in the northeast of the peninsula halfway between Madrid and Barcelona with efficient transport links. It suits those looking for a golden mean between dynamism (jobs, services, amenities) and relative tranquility.
3. Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Average sale price – €2,512/m2, rent – €13.5/m2 per month.
Third place in the ranking goes to the capital of the Canary Islands – Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Its appeal lies in a combination of a pleasant year-round climate, a privileged natural environment, a calmer lifestyle than in the major cities of the peninsula, and at the same time good infrastructure and services. Many find an alternative way of life in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
4. Valencia
- Average sale price – €3,238/m2, rent – €15.6/m2 per month.
Valencia has established itself as one of Spain’s most sought-after cities thanks to the balance between quality of life, services, climate and cultural offerings. In recent years, the city has shown steady growth both demographically and in urban development. The City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Música, the IVAM and the Centre del Carme – which has become an epicenter of contemporary art – are just a few examples of how Valencia has managed to take a leading position in Spain’s cultural sphere. The unique Fallas festival has been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, but there are also other events of great interest: Fira de Juliol, Festival de les Arts or Mostra de València. In addition, the city is famous for its beaches, and its extensive network of bike lanes encourages a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle by the sea.
5. Las Palmas
- Average sale price – €2,495/m2, rent – €14/m2 per month.
Las Palmas offers a unique blend of urban life with all its comforts and enjoyment of nature. Mild temperatures year-round, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and beaches have made it fifth in the ranking of the most sought-after cities for buying a home. The city’s cultural program includes events such as the International Film Festival, WOMAD, Carnival (one of the most famous in Europe), open-air concerts, craft markets and sea-related sporting events.
6. Barcelona
- Average sale price – €5,089/m2, rent – €24/m2 per month.
Barcelona is a cosmopolitan, fashionable city with a vibrant life that attracts people from all over the world. Modernist architecture, symbolized by the Sagrada Família, sits alongside trendy places such as Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria, Disseny Hub, or the emerging creative-economy hubs in Poblenou. Barcelona’s lifestyle blends modernity and tradition. In addition, markets such as La Boqueria, Santa Caterina or Sant Antoni offer an authentic gastronomic experience that coexists with modern Mediterranean cuisine. In neighborhoods like Eixample, Sarrià or Gràcia you can find both Michelin-starred restaurants and small chef-driven venues.
7. Seville
- Average sale price – €2,693/m2, rent – €12.8/m2 per month.
Seville’s appeal lies in its rich historical and cultural heritage, a more relaxed pace of life compared to other overcrowded metropolises, and a wide choice of entertainment, gastronomy and traditions. Added to this is the fact that housing prices here are lower than in other major cities. Flamenco, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reigns in clubs and squares (especially in the Triana district). As for gastronomy, Seville is a paradise for tapas lovers. In the neighborhoods of Alameda, Arenal, Los Remedios and Nervión there are bars and restaurants where traditional Andalusian cuisine has been reinterpreted without losing its essence.
8. Santa Coloma de Gramenet
- Average sale price – €2,265/m2, rent – €12.9/m2 per month.
Santa Coloma de Gramenet has established itself as one of Barcelona’s most sought-after suburbs. Its advantageous location – just a few minutes by metro from the center – makes it a very popular option for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a big city, but with a more affordable cost of living and a calmer atmosphere. In recent years, the city has undergone significant changes: public spaces, sports facilities and green areas have been improved, and cultural life has noticeably revitalized.
9. A Coruña
- Average sale price – €2,967/m2, rent – €10.8/m2 per month.
A Coruña stands out among the cities with the highest housing demand thanks to a combination of quality of life, culture, gastronomy and the surrounding environment. Its Atlantic character shapes a relaxed lifestyle with beaches, promenades and a cultural program that is on par with other major cities. The culinary offering based on fresh seafood is an undeniable advantage of A Coruña. The city also stands out for its economic activity: the port, a growing tech industry and the influence of the university make it an important employment hub in Galicia. In addition, thanks to its mild climate, safety and educational opportunities, it is an ideal place both for families and for professionals seeking stability and a good level of services.
10. Gijón
- Average sale price – €2,544/m2, rent – €10.7/m2 per month.
Gijón has become one of the most sought-after cities in northern Spain thanks to its seaside character, cultural opportunities and excellent quality of life. Located on the Asturian coast, it boasts beautiful urban beaches where you can practice water sports, as well as a lively historic center and an active cultural program throughout the year. The Cimavilla neighborhood – one of the oldest in the city – is the quintessence of Gijón, with narrow streets, views over the Bay of Biscay, and a gastronomic scene that has evolved without losing its authenticity.
In addition, it is a leading city for sports, with first-class sports facilities and a lifestyle that combines physical activity, nature and leisure. Green surroundings and coastal routes make Gijón an ideal place for those seeking well-being without giving up the full range of urban services.
