11 idyllic destinations for travelling alone in Spain

Travelling alone is an experience that should be attempted by anyone at least once. If one has the will and thinks travelling on one’s own might be enjoyable or life-changing, there is no need to fear. Make the move and simply do it! Besides, Spain is an ideal country for touring alone. Firstly, it is such a diverse country of changing landscapes that a simple road trip on one’s own without the distraction of company will delight and amaze the senses. While being accompanied may be nice, travelling unaccompanied frees the focus of attention. Additionally, the array of places and cultures that is Spain means a welcoming and hospitable country to any traveller. So let’s get to it. Here is a list of the ideal places to see when travelling alone in Spain.

Ideal first time Spanish destinations when travelling solo

Usually, the first-time traveller either has a specific destination already in mind or just wants to live the experience, but is unsure where to begin. For those who fall into the latter category, these are some impressive places to see and the reasons why to see them when going solo in Spain.

Madrid and Barcelona,  Spain’s big cities

Both Madrid and Barcelona are ideal places for those in search of the hustle and bustle of people and possibilities. If a cultural theme is in mind, both the capital and the Ciudad Condal (Barcelona) have countless opportunities on offer, whether it be theatre, arts, live music or sporting events. Travelling alone in these places will mean not stopping much. The list of things to see for Madrid and Barcelona may well be endless.

Santiago de Compostela,  finding that inner peace

In no way, shape or form does Santiago de Compostela play second fiddle to the aforementioned cities. It is simply distinct. Though full of life, Santiago de Compostela imbues calm. Transiting trekkers from around the world on the pilgrimage to Santiago’s cathedral make Santiago de Compostela one of Spain’s most international cities. Nevertheless, a slow leisurely pace reigns throughout the city. Santiago de Compostela offers many opportunities to the visitor, assuring a truly distinct experience, especially as few cities are as cosy as this one.

The light of Granada

The feeling of Granada is more akin to Santiago de Compostela than Madrid or Barcelona. Granada could be called the perfect Andalusian counterpoint to Galicia’s Santiago de Compostela. Granada is truly special, being one of the most diverse and beautiful places in Andalusia, full of fascinating spots to visit. Of course, the majestic Alhambra, designated a World Heritage Site nearly forty years ago, is the star attraction and one should not miss the chance to unhurriedly meander its streets in silence soaking up all the sights and sounds.

Cangas de Onís parish, in the heart of  Asturias

For those who feel that their first trip alone ought to be more rural, Cangas de Onís is a superb choice, idyllic for resting and leisure. Nearby stands the Santuario de Covadonga (Covadonga sanctuary), with its awe-inspiring basilica and its rich historical and cultural roots. If one ascends further up towards the Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe), the Lakes of Covadonga  offer stunning nature, hiking trails and clean pure air. This is the heart of Asturias and one will quickly see why once experiencing it.

Road trip, an excellent choice for touring alone around Spain

While there are buses and trains to get around Spain, a private vehicle is perfect for those seeking freedom of movement. Let’s turn to those trips in which we have to hit the road. Whether it be the first time travelling alone or not, if humming along and admiring the landscapes while being on the road is your thing, then a road trip will be unmatchable. And, of course, the destinations too.

The essential Basque triangle

Neither the starting point nor the destination nor even the route really matters. What matters is the fact that the three big Basque cities of San Sebastián, Bilbao and Vitoria, forming a geographic triangle, can be a marvelous road trip. While the three cities share similarities, they are also unique among each other. The old quarter in San Sebastián, the estuary at Bilbao and the charming white colours of Vitoria, each with their monuments, unique histories and rich gastronomy, are excellent choices for anyone travelling on their own. And, of course, for anyone seeking an urban experience.

Call it paradise or even Pyrenees

For those daring enough and looking for something a little different, why not take to the winding roads of the Pyrenees, a sensational mountain range ostensibly protecting Spain from the rest of the continent. Venture into the Pyrenees and discover villages like Broto and Durro, where time seems to stand still and valleys such as Vió where silence reigns supreme and unexpected. World Heritage treasures such as the Romanesque churches. Or contemplate the world in the mysterious halo mist that pervades the Baztán valley. In short, the Pyrenees is a paradise for anyone who loves the great outdoors and that romantic sensation of being taken back to another epoch.

The Merindades, Castilian magic

Though Merindades has gained in popularity these past few years, it is still a region free of mass tourism. Much like the Pyrenees as far as silence and pace, but quite distinct regarding its hidden spots. Places such as Puentedey and the majestic settings of Spain’s highest waterfall at Nervión, or the hundred kilometer long underground network of caves at Ojo Guareña. Discovering these marvels is a solo traveller’s dream come true.

Navel gazing on the Costa Brava

There is an Italian expression that says dolce far niente, and it means the pleasure of doing nothing. In Spain, we could say it equates to visiting the beaches of Costa Brava. The reason being the countless picturesque spots to relax at in this region of Spain along the Mediterranean sea. An ideal trip for those looking for time off in front of Mediterranean waters, though the Costa Brava has much more. The monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes or villages like Peratallada that offer a medieval artistic-cultural element.

Gata Cape, wild Andalusia

Cabo de Gata (Gata Cape) is an Andalusian paradise. Here one may feel both tiny and enormous at the same time on the beaches of Charco or San Miguel. The natural scenery is stunning and the villages by night are no less surprising. Carboneras, Agua Amarga, Níjar or Rodalquilar offer whitewashed homes, walks without much need for a map and an abundance of serenity. Renting a car and touring the Cabo de Gata from end to end is always a super idea.

Lanzarote, another planet

Lanzarote is an ideal island to tour alone by car. Although it may be big, it is not teeming with people and journeys are not overwhelming. One can easily get swept up in that dolce far niente on beaches like Papagayo or the coves at Caletón Blanco or play the adventurer exploring another planet at Timanfaya national park. Other places not to be missed are Jameos del Agua, the Hervideros (hot springs) or the village of El Golfo. Lanzarote is a must-see destination for any solo travel lover.

Way to Santiago, another way to travel alone

The experience of walking the Camino de Santiago (Way to Santiago) alone, something not fully appreciated until lived, merits a special mention. Trekking from twenty to thirty kilometers a day ascending mountains or crossing valleys, as the pop band Los Tamara sings on A Santiago Voy (Going to Santiago), is an unforgettable adventure. There may be ups and downs, but there is nothing else like it. Even walking the same trail twice will offer an unique encounter.

For anyone who truly seeks solitude and wants to be at peace, the Way to Santiago may very well be the ideal way. Disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with oneself is the reason why the journey in this case is more important than the destination. And if one has not grown weary of being on their own upon arrival in Santiago de Compostela, then that other journey in solitude mentioned at the beginning can be undertaken.