Spain is one of Europe’s most diverse and traveler-friendly countries when it comes to accommodation. From modern hotels with rooftop pools to boutique properties in historic quarters, beachfront apartments and rural stone houses in the mountains, you will find a huge range of places to stay – each with its own atmosphere, price level and regulations. Choosing the right area matters just as much as choosing the right hotel, especially in major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, Málaga and San Sebastián.
This guide explains where to stay in Spain, how much accommodation typically costs, the main hotel and apartment options, key neighborhood choices, short-term rental rules and practical booking tips. It is written to help real travelers make better decisions, and it connects with other parts of our Spain travel guide such as Spain Fast Facts, About Spain, Top Destinations in Spain, Beaches in Spain, Spain Weather, Food & Drinks in Spain and Spain Travel Tips.
Where to Stay in Spain: Best Regions & Cities
Spain’s regions offer very different travel experiences. Your ideal base will depend on whether you prefer beaches, culture, nightlife, nature or food.
- Mediterranean Coast (Valencia, Alicante, Costa Blanca, Costa Brava): Perfect for classic beach holidays, family resorts and seaside apartments.
- Andalusia (Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Málaga): Best for culture-rich trips, historic centers and atmospheric boutique stays.
- Madrid: Spain’s capital is ideal if you want museums, nightlife, shopping and easy train connections to the rest of the country.
- Basque Country (Bilbao, San Sebastián): A great choice for food lovers and travelers seeking elegant coastal cities and green hills.
- Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca): Known for waterfront resorts, rural fincas, adults-only hotels and relaxed coves.
- Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura): Ideal for year-round sunshine, volcanic landscapes and large beachfront resorts.
Best Neighborhoods for Visitors (Local Perspective)
In Spain’s major cities, picking the right neighborhood can completely change your experience. Below are some of the most useful areas for different types of travelers.
Where to Stay in Madrid
- Gran Vía: Excellent for first-time visitors. Central, walkable and full of shops, but it can be noisy late at night.
- Malasaña: Trendy and bohemian, with cafés, vintage shops and nightlife. Great for younger travelers and couples.
- Salamanca: Upscale residential area with luxury boutiques, elegant streets and high-end hotels.
- La Latina: Historic streets, tapas bars and a more local vibe. Good for those who want character and nightlife.
- Retiro: Close to Retiro Park and museums, quieter and ideal for families or longer stays.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
- Eixample: One of the best all-round areas – safe, stylish and well connected, with many mid-range and boutique hotels.
- Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): Atmospheric and very central, but crowded and noisy; better for short visits.
- Gràcia: A more local, artsy neighborhood with small squares, independent shops and intimate hotels.
- Poblenou: Modern, close to the beach and popular with families and digital nomads.
- Barceloneta: Right by the sea, good for beach access, but busy and touristy in high season.
Valencia and Seville
- Valencia – Ciutat Vella (Old Town): Best for sightseeing and staying near historic buildings and markets.
- Valencia – Ruzafa: Creative, youthful and full of restaurants; ideal for travelers who like a lively local feel.
- Seville – Santa Cruz: Classic choice for first-time visitors, close to the cathedral and Alcázar.
- Seville – Triana: Across the river, known for flamenco, ceramics and more local nightlife.
Basque Country (San Sebastián)
- Centro: The best base for most visitors, close to La Concha Beach, pintxos bars and main sights.
- Gros: Slightly more relaxed and youthful; great for surfers, foodies and longer stays.
How Much Do Hotels Cost in Spain? (2025 Benchmarks)
Prices vary by destination, season and category, but the following ranges give a realistic idea of what to expect for two people in a double room:
- Budget hotels: €50–€80 per night – simple but clean, often outside the very center.
- Mid-range city hotels (3–4★): €90–€150 per night in most cities.
- Beachfront hotels (Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca): €120–€180 per night in high season.
- Luxury hotels (5★): €250–€450+ per night in Madrid, Barcelona, Marbella and Ibiza.
- Boutique hotels: €150–€250 per night depending on location and design.
- Paradores (historic hotels): €160–€300 per night, often including excellent regional cuisine.
In July and August, and during Easter (Semana Santa), prices in popular coastal areas and historic cities may increase significantly. For more context on seasons and climate, see our Spain Weather guide.
Apartments & Short-Term Rental Regulations (Updated for 2025)
Apartments and short-term rentals are very popular in Spain, but regulations have tightened in recent years to protect housing for locals. It is important to book legally registered properties.
- Barcelona: Legal apartments must display a valid HUTB license number. Avoid listings without a license, as illegal rentals can be shut down quickly.
- Madrid: Short-term rentals require a “VT” license, and some buildings are restricted. Make sure the listing shows its official registration.
- Valencia: Rentals are only allowed in certain zones; the historic center is tightly controlled. Always check that your apartment is authorized.
- Canary Islands: Properties marketed as “vivienda vacacional” need registration. Fines for unlicensed rentals can be high.
- Basque Country (San Sebastián, Bilbao): Local rules limit short-term apartments in pressure areas, so legal, licensed options can be more expensive but are more secure.
Most large booking platforms now display license numbers in the property description or at the bottom of the listing. If you cannot find any reference to registration, it is safer to choose a different place.
Main Types of Accommodation in Spain
Hotels (2★–5★)
Spain’s hotels are generally modern, well maintained and good value compared with many other Western European countries. Even 3-star properties often include air conditioning, daily housekeeping and a decent breakfast. Four-star hotels are particularly strong in Spain, offering comfort and design at a fair price.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels are popular in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada and San Sebastián. They often occupy historic buildings or carefully renovated townhouses and focus on design, local materials and personal service rather than size. These are ideal for couples, city breaks and special occasions.
Paradores (Historic Hotels)
Paradores are Spain’s state-run historic hotels, located in castles, monasteries, palaces and unique natural settings. Staying in a parador is a memorable experience that combines accommodation with culture and landscapes. They are excellent options for travelers exploring inland Spain, smaller towns or scenic routes.
Coastal Resorts
Along the Mediterranean coast and in the Balearic and Canary Islands, you will find many resort-style hotels with pools, spas, kids’ clubs and entertainment programs. Some are all-inclusive, others offer half-board. These properties are ideal for families and travelers who want a relaxed, “stay-in-one-place” holiday.
Casas Rurales (Rural Houses)
In northern Spain – especially Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque Country – casas rurales (rural houses) offer a peaceful alternative to city hotels. These small countryside properties are perfect for hiking, road trips and slow travel. Many are family-run and include homemade breakfasts or dinners.
Apartments & Serviced Flats
Apartments are a smart choice for families, groups or anyone staying a week or longer. They allow you to cook, do laundry and have more living space. Serviced flats in bigger cities combine hotel-like reception and cleaning with apartment facilities. Always check reviews carefully for noise, building rules and license details.
What Type of Accommodation Is Right for You?
The best type of place to stay in Spain depends on your travel style:
- First-time visitors: Central hotels in Madrid’s Gran Vía or Barcelona’s Eixample make it easy to explore on foot and by metro.
- Beach lovers: Resorts and seafront apartments along Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands are ideal.
- Couples: Boutique hotels in Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Mallorca and San Sebastián offer romantic settings and character.
- Families: All-inclusive or family-oriented hotels in Valencia, Alicante, Benidorm, Costa Dorada and the Canary Islands are convenient.
- Food travelers: Design hotels and small guesthouses in San Sebastián, Bilbao, Barcelona and Madrid work well.
- Budget travelers and digital nomads: Licensed apartments in bigger cities and mid-sized coastal towns give more value per night.
Booking Tips for Accommodation in Spain
- Book 3–6 months in advance for Barcelona, Madrid and the Balearic Islands in high season.
- Always check cancellation policies, especially if you are traveling during busy festivals or holiday periods.
- Look for hotels or apartments close to metro, tram or train lines to reduce transport time and costs.
- In historic centers, expect narrow streets and noise; consider a quieter neighborhood if you are a light sleeper.
- In beach destinations, consider staying slightly away from the main promenade for better value and less noise.
- Use reviews to check for recurring issues such as street noise, outdated rooms or complicated check-in for apartments.
Related Spain Travel Guides
Continue planning your trip with these Spain travel guides:
