Spain has something for every buyer – but how do you choose where’s best for you? This guide breaks down the most popular regions for overseas buyers, comparing lifestyle, prices and accessibility to help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to holidays, Spain is an easy choice. The sun’s reliable, you can get tapas everywhere and you’re never far from a beach, a golf course or a good glass of Rioja. But what’s right for a two-week stay might not be suitable for everyday life – or a long-term investment. Should you follow the sunshine and settle on the coast or head inland for more space and traditional living? Is it worth paying extra for the Balearics or can you find better value elsewhere? And what’s the smartest choice if you’re planning to rent your property out?
This guide explores the regions that are most popular with overseas buyers, comparing lifestyle, accessibility and what your budget will get you.
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Contents
Costa Blanca
Costa del Sol
Costa Cálida
Costa Almería
Costa Tropical
Costa Brava
Barcelona
Madrid
Seville
Balearic Islands
Canary Islands
Costa Blanca
Best for: Coastal towns and golf resorts with strong rental potential
Who buys here: Retirees and holiday-home owners from the UK and northern Europe
The Costa Blanca is still one of the top spots for British buyers. With more than 300 days of sunshine, excellent healthcare and established English-speaking communities in towns like Javea, Moraira and Torrevieja, it’s easy to settle in. The southern stretch, near Alicante, tends to be more affordable, while the northern Costa Blanca attracts higher-budget buyers.
Costa del Sol
Best for: Glamorous hotspots, modern infrastructure and golf
Who buys here: Holiday-home owners, expats and remote workers
From Marbella’s beach clubs to the golf courses of Mijas and Estepona, the Costa del Sol combines sunshine with sophisticated living. Malaga’s growing popularity among younger buyers and digital nomads has also brought new energy to the region. It’s pricier than Costa Blanca, but you’ll find newer builds and well-managed communities.
Costa Cálida
Best for: Undiscovered coastline and traditional Spanish towns
Who buys here: Retirees and second-home buyers looking for peace and quiet
Murcia’s Costa Cálida flies under the radar, but it’s a solid option if you want affordability and a more relaxed pace. Places like Mazarrón and San Pedro del Pinatar offer great value and growing expat communities. You’ll also find newer resort developments like Condado de Alhama and La Manga Club.
Costa Almería
Best for: Desert landscapes and unspoilt coastline
Who buys here: Adventurous buyers seeking space and solitude
With its dramatic natural parks and quieter resorts, Costa Almería offers a totally different flavour of Spain. Mojácar and Vera Playa have more developed options, while inland villages provide good opportunities for renovation projects. The region’s lower population makes it ideal if you’re looking for a more peaceful lifestyle.
Costa Tropical
Best for: Authentic coastal towns
Who buys here: Buyers who want culture, not crowds
This relatively unknown stretch between Costa del Sol and Costa Almería is ideal for those wanting the best of both worlds: traditional Spanish culture and a seaside setting. Towns like Almuñécar and Salobreña offer a slower pace, and you’re within reach of Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Costa Brava
Best for: Rugged coves, clear water and easy access from France
Who buys here: Holiday-home owners from France, Germany and the UK
Located close to the French border, the Costa Brava is known for its rocky coves, pine-covered hills and a slightly more upmarket vibe. Towns like Begur, Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar attract buyers from all over. Barcelona is just a train ride away, adding to its appeal.
Barcelona
Best for: City lovers, entrepreneurs and property investors
Who buys here: International buyers looking for short-lets or second homes
Barcelona is consistently popular with buyers thanks to its world-class food, architecture, beach lifestyle and strong rental market. Property here doesn’t come cheap and rental regulations are strict, but demand remains high.
Madrid
Best for: Culture, city living and year-round action
Who buys here: Professionals, long-term residents, second-home owners and investors
Spain’s capital isn’t just about politics and business – it’s a cosmopolitan, buzzing city with Michelin-starred restaurants, excellent shopping and a growing international population. The property market is stable, and you’ll find everything from inner-city apartments to suburban villas.
Seville
Best for: Moorish architecture and flamenco
Who buys here: Culture-seeking buyers and long-stay second-home owners
Seville is the beating heart of Andalusia; a city full of energy, history and orange-tree-lined streets. With hot summers and mild winters, it’s perfect if you’re looking to spend more time outdoors. The property market is more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona, especially in areas like Triana or Macarena. It’s also well-connected by high-speed rail and airports in both Seville and nearby Jerez.
The Balearic Islands
Best for: Island lifestyle, high-end homes and sea views
Who buys here: High-net-worth buyers and second-home owners
Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza each offer something different. Mallorca combines sophistication with family-friendly resorts and yacht clubs, while Menorca is quieter and more traditional – ideal for laid-back living. Ibiza is famous for its nightlife, but away from the clubs, there are peaceful inland fincas and wellness retreats that appeal to those looking for calm between seasons. Across all islands, expect high property prices and a steady stream of international buyers.
The Canary Islands
Best for: Winter sun and long rental seasons
Who buys here: Investors and retirees looking for reliable returns
Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura offer warm weather year-round, which means they have longer rental seasons than mainland Spain. Many buyers here are looking for a second income from tourism, while others are drawn to the laid-back island lifestyle and low living costs.
Inland Spain
Best for: Authentic Spanish towns, affordability and large plots
Who buys here: Permanent movers and renovation enthusiasts
Regions like Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha and inland Andalusia are gaining interest from buyers seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle. You’ll get a lot more for your money – think farmhouses, vineyards and olive groves – but you’ll need to be comfortable with fewer amenities and a stronger grasp of Spanish.
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What should guide your decision?
Before narrowing down your search, ask yourself:
- Do you want to live there year-round or just while on holiday? Some areas, like the Balearics, quieten down in winter
- Do you need access to healthcare, English-speaking services or international schools? Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol are best for these
- Do you plan to rent the property out? Look for areas with high tourism demand and easy airport access
- Are you open to renovating? Inland Spain or older parts of towns can offer good opportunities for restoration
Final thoughts
Choosing where to buy property in Spain depends on your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. Whether it’s the beaches of the Costa Blanca, the luxury hotspots of the Costa del Sol or the rustic charm of inland villages, there’s a place for you – you just need to define your priorities.
Explore property listings and speak to experts who understand the regions first-hand. With the right planning and support, you can feel confident and in control of your Spanish property journey from the very start.
FAQs about where to buy in Spain
Where is the cheapest place to buy in Spain?
Some of the cheapest areas to buy property in Spain are inland regions like Jaén (Andalusia), Teruel (Aragón) and parts of Extremadura. You’ll often find village houses under €50,000 – especially if you’re open to renovation. These areas offer space and authenticity at a fraction of coastal prices.
Where do most Brits buy property in Spain?
The most popular regions for British buyers are the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol and Murcia’s Costa Cálida. These areas have established expat communities, good infrastructure, healthcare services and plenty of direct flights from the UK – making them ideal for both holiday homes and relocations.
What is the best place to buy in Spain?
That depends on your goals. For lifestyle and long-term rentals, Costa del Sol and the Balearics are strong contenders. For value and space, inland Andalusia and Murcia are excellent. And for family holidays with sun and sea, Costa Blanca remains a favourite. Define your priorities – then match the region.
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