Top 5 Spanish cities to buy a home

Do you feel your best at the heart of the city? With endless galleries and museums to explore, nights out to enjoy and shopping to plunge into? We’ve chosen five fantastic Spanish cities to own a home in. Discover the lifestyle promised by each one and the type of property you can buy there. 

Madrid

If you want to be plunged into bustle, culture and excitement, then there is possibly nowhere better than the Spanish capital. From stand-out landmarks such as The Prado, the Royal Palace, the Retiro Park to lesser-known gems, you’ll have an endless of things to see and do in Madrid. As well as being very easy to walk around, it has a super-efficient public transport system.

Madrid is ranked 14th on the Global Cities Index, due to the strength of its businesses, communication and arts industries. It is here that you will find the highest paying jobs. Plus, there are close to 60 international schools, following British, American or the International Baccalaureate, so you’ll be spoiled for choice if you want to raise a family there. Of the 6.7 million population, approximately one million are from overseas, so you’ll be in good company.

Madrid’s fantastic transport links mean that you can be skiing in an hour and at the beach in two. If you need to regularly fly home, that’ll be straightforward too.

While the cost of living can be high in Madrid, it is more affordable than Paris or London.  If you are considering property close to the centre, some of the nicest areas are Ibiza (near Retiro Park), Chamberi, Conde Duque and Las Letras.

Two-bedroom, €1,530,000

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Barcelona

In 2022, the Telegraph named the Catalonia city the “Best City on Earth”, a title that it embodies with effortless coolness. It cited the number of green spaces, including gorgeous Park Güell; its choice of museums and galleries, including UNSECO World Heritage sites; and its LGBTQI+ friendliness. The contrast between the Gaudi and Gothic architecture gives the city its particularly unique charm. Plus, it boasts of a beautifully warm climate and beautiful beaches to match. Whether you want to chug all by tram, metro or zip through the streets (and hills) by foot or bike, Barcelona is easy to get around. You’ll also find fantastic restaurants, including mouth-watering options for vegetarians, and great nightlife, whether you’d like to chat through to the small hours in a Sangria bar or dance the night away. The city is very diverse, with about 20% being expats, rising to 50% in the Old City.

The cost of living and property prices are a touch lower than Madrid. Barcelona’s ten districts vary widely: Poble Nou is energetic and diverse; Eixample features upscale living and shopping; Gràcia is serene and less touristy; Sant Martí is trendy with cool bars and stores.

Three-bedroom, Ciutat Vella, €360,000

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Málaga

Málaga promises over 300 days of sunshine, sixteen beaches, and an enviable art scene, including the Museo Picasso Málaga and graffiti lined streets of Soho Málaga, it’s a vibrant city. Foodies will delight in diverse dining options, while history buffs can explore the Roman Amphitheatre and Alcazaba fortress. Shopping ranges from second-hand boutiques to big brands. Just 8km from the city, Málaga’s international airport makes for easy international trips. If you look just a little outside of the city, you’ll be able to find budget-friendly properties and have only a short trip to the beach, art and shops.

Two-bedroom, €2,000,000

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Valencia

Love the Costa Blanca but looking for that city buzz? In recent years, Valencia has gained popularity as an alternative city break to Madrid and Barcelona. The city is also known for its green credentials, with beautiful parks, such as Turia Gardens, and an aim to become carbon neutral by 2030. With seven kilometres of Blue Flag beaches, including Las Arenas and Playa de la Malvarrosa, sun-seekers will be spoiled for choice. The city’s modern attractions, such as the City of Arts and Sciences, blend education and entertainment. History enthusiasts can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site La Lonja and the Valencia Cathedral. With mild winters, warm summers, and year-round flights, Valencia is an ideal choice for both living and renting out properties.

Two-bedroom, €289,000

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Palma

The capital not just of Mallorca but of the Balearics, Palma is a large and thriving city. With a five kilometre beachfront boulevard, it offers relaxed, fun seaside lifestyle. It’s the place to practice yoga on the sand. But it’s also superb for exploring, whether you have a love of history, art or independent shops.  Property buyers may want to look at central city options, particularly the historic old town’s medieval alleyways, which offer glimpses of Moorish patios and townhouses, some converted into boutique hotels or priced in the millions. The trendy Santa Catalina district, known for its vintage shops and cafes, offers a bohemian vibe near the city centre, though prices reflect its desirability. Mallorca’s efficient public transport, including buses and a scenic train to Soller, ensures easy access to the city centre from various locations.

Two-bedroom, €595,000

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