Which Spanish cities do Brits move to?

There is no doubt that Spain is among the favourite destinations of most British immigrants. Australia, USA and Canada are on the top as well. What usually starts as a holiday destination, ends up becoming their home. Spain really charms its visitors!

Although people of all ages decide to move to Spain every year, retired British expats are more inclined to begin a new life in this country. But what city do they like the most? What are the best towns to start this new chapter?

The best Spanish cities to retire

The golden Orihuela

Orihuela, Alicante.

Orihuela, Alicante. | Shutterstock

Of course, coastal towns and villages are their main choice. Once you visit one of the many fine and golden sand beaches in Spain you can’t help falling in love with them. What do you need when you have crystalline waters, the warmth of the sun and a delicious tapa?

We all need a little of colour in our lives and Orihuela is an expert in the field. Maybe it isn’t the largest town in Alicante, but its historical background is extremely interesting. You can perceive it at first sight – the Middle Ages remain alive on the air. Churches, palaces and museums prove this large tradition and turn it into a lovely place to live. More than 10,000 Brits know that.

The sunny Benidorm

Mal Pas beach, Benidorm.

Mal Pas beach, Benidorm. | Shutterstock

Benidorm is characterised by the profile drawn by its countless skyscrapers. Located in Alicante, in the Valencian Community, this place is a postcard to remember. Its coast, specially under the light of the lampposts in the night, invites you to enjoy a refreshing swim. And the whole city invites you to pack your belongings and come back. And maybe, to stay.

Retirement is the time to enjoy life and relax and there is no other place like Benidorm to do so. That’s why almost 4,000 Brits chose this place as their new home.

The white Benalmádena

Castillo de Colomares, Benalmádena.

Castillo de Colomares, Benalmádena. | Shutterstock

A white oasis of floral streets surrounded by a deep blue sea. There is no doubt that Benalmádena is the perfect place to spend the dreamiest holidays or start a new life that always feels like summer. And it hides a tribute to Christopher Columbus that you must visit at least once in life.

The charming Mijas

Mijas, Málaga.

Mijas, Málaga. | Shutterstock

Mijas is one of those Andalusian pueblos blancos that look straight out a fairy tale. Golf and history lovers will be delighted by Mijas. And it’s the favourite town of every nature lover, since there is no need to choose – Mijas has both mountains and sea.

Torremolinos, Málaga

Casa de los Navajas, Torremolinos.

Casa de los Navajas, Torremolinos. | Shutterstock

Although Torremolinos is mainly known as a tourist destination since spending a summer here is a lovely experience, life here is wonderful as well. There is always something new to discover here, like Casa de los Navajas and all of its gorgeous beaches.

The vibrant Fuengirola

Fuengirola, Málaga.

Fuengirola, Málaga. | Shutterstock

Speaking of gorgeous beaches, this is the reason why Fuengirola is so popular and one of the main choices of the British. A charming square, its theme parks and its castle will make you fall in love at first sight.

The rose Torrevieja

Torrevieja, Alicante.

Torrevieja, Alicante. | Shutterstock

Let’s leave Málaga, at least for a while, because Torrevieja sits in Alicante. A natural park, a pink lagoon and unique buildings are some examples of everything you can find here. But let’s not forget about the main point – it’s also a place to spend a more relaxed life.

The luxurious Calvià

Calvià, Mallorca.

Calvià, Mallorca. | Shutterstock

Calvià is perfect for those who seek a life of luxury and pleasure. Located in Mallorca, in Islas Baleares, Calvià is surrounded by turquoise blue waters dotted with tiny spots of colour, its majestic yachts.

The vibrant Arona

Las Américas beach. Arona.

Las Américas beach, Arona. | Shutterstock

Sailing to the south we will find the next city where Brits love to move to. The sun always shines in Arona, a municipality at the foot of one of Tenerife’s mountains. Those who live here have beautiful beaches and atural landscapes on their doors.

The shining Estepona

Estepona, Málaga.

Estepona, Málaga. | Shutterstock

Málaga comes back and takes the last place on this list of the cities in Spain where most British expats retire to. Estepona, the garden of Costa del Sol, is one of the most popular choices. A walk through its streets crowded with colourful pots, its Plaza de las Flores or its promenade charms every heart.

Málaga is the clear favourite. It’s obvious why this name appears persistently on this list.

This province offers plenty of activities and charming corners for people of every age. And it’s formed by unique buildings of diverse architectural styles straight out of a movie, perfect storytellers of the great history of this place.

Besides being important tourist destinations, these are the cities where most British people move to when they retire as well. But who wouldn’t love to live here?


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