If you’re lucky enough to have time off during Semana Santa but don’t want to follow the usual tourist trail, Spain has plenty of lesser-known spots that offer a great mix of history, nature, and relaxation. From sleepy towns to places packed with character, here are 10 places worth considering for a weekend away.

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1. Cazorla – Nature at Its Own Pace

If you’re looking for a place that feels removed from the usual rush of Spanish towns, Cazorla in Jaén is a solid pick. Located on the edge of the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park, this little town is perfect for anyone who enjoys being outside, whether that’s hiking, exploring caves, or spotting wildlife. The real charm here is how untouched everything feels, there’s no frantic pace, just the peaceful hum of nature.

A walk through the town is like stepping back in time, with its quaint whitewashed houses and quiet streets. The local Castillo de la Yedra provides a nice spot to stop and catch your breath while taking in the views of the town below and the mountains in the distance. For food, olive oil is king here, and you’ll want to try a plate of migas or a hearty ajo blanco to really feel like you’re in the heart of Andalucía. The best part? It’s all relatively low-key, so you won’t be battling crowds during Semana Santa. It’s the kind of place that lets you recharge while soaking up the simple beauty of nature.

2. Cáceres – A Step Back in Time

Cáceres, located in Extremadura, feels a bit like a forgotten chapter of Spanish history. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is remarkably well-preserved, with winding cobblestone streets and medieval buildings that make you feel like you’ve time-travelled a few centuries. The Plaza Mayor is where most of the action happens, surrounded by ancient stone walls and grand palaces, perfect for grabbing a bite or watching life pass by.

One of the town’s most striking features is the Torre de Bujaco, a square tower that has seen it all, from Roman conquests to Moorish rule. The town’s food scene is often overshadowed by its historical sites, but it’s definitely worth checking out. The torta del casar, a creamy, spreadable cheese, is a local favorite, and you’ll find plenty of places to try it alongside migas, another regional specialty. There’s something soothing about strolling through Cáceres, where the pace is slow and you’re never too far from a little piece of history. During Semana Santa, the processions are solemn but far from overwhelming, giving you the chance to enjoy both the spiritual and the everyday.

3. Ronda – A Stunning Cliffside Location

Ronda, in the Province of Málaga, doesn’t really do subtlety. Perched on the edge of a deep canyon, it’s a town that will make you pause and take a moment to just stare at the views. The Puente Nuevo, an 18th-century bridge, spans the El Tajo Gorge and is one of the most photographed sights in Spain. But beyond the views, Ronda is a town with a rich history. The Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, gives you a glimpse into the bullfighting tradition that’s been so ingrained in this part of the country.

The old town, with its narrow streets and whitewashed buildings, is the perfect spot for an afternoon wander. Be sure to check out the Palacio de Mondragón, where you’ll get a sense of the Moorish influence that once dominated the area. If you enjoy a good glass of wine, Ronda’s wineries are a great place to relax and try some of the region’s best reds. The town’s Semana Santa processions are low-key, so it’s easy to enjoy the traditions without feeling like you’re stuck in the middle of a tourist crowd.

4. Comillas – Gaudí, Beaches, and a Quiet Corner of the North

Comillas is one of those places that might just surprise you. On the northern coast of Spain, in Cantabria, this small town has its fair share of impressive architecture, not least of which is El Capricho de Gaudí. Designed by the famous Catalan architect, this building looks like it came straight from one of his more whimsical dreams, with curved walls and colorful tiles that look right at home by the coast. While in town, it’s worth wandering through the streets to see more of the modernist buildings, especially the Palacio de Sobrellano.

For something more laid-back, head to Playa de Comillas, a peaceful beach where you can unwind without the usual crowds. The town’s size makes it a great option for a relaxed weekend, and you won’t have to compete with tourists for space. If you enjoy hiking, the nearby Parque Natural de las Dunas de Liencres offers great coastal trails. During Semana Santa, Comillas is relatively quiet, with only a few processions, so you can explore at your own pace without the pressure of large crowds.

5. Ávila – A Walk Around the Walls

Ávila, located in Castillo y Léon, is a place that lives and breathes history. The town’s imposing medieval walls, which stretch over 2.5 kilometers, are one of the most well-preserved defensive structures in Spain. You can walk along the top of the walls, taking in the views of the surrounding countryside and getting a real sense of how the town once looked. Inside, Ávila is full of narrow streets and impressive buildings, including the Iglesia de San Vicente, a Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century.

The Convento de Santa Teresa is another must-see if you’re interested in learning more about the life of Saint Teresa of Ávila, who played a huge role in the spiritual history of the town. Foodies will enjoy Ávila’s local specialties, especially the yemas de Ávila, a sweet treat made from egg yolks, sugar, and almonds. Semana Santa in Ávila is one of the quieter ones, with processions that move slowly through the streets, giving you plenty of space to reflect on the town’s history without feeling rushed. Ávila’s mix of history, food, and views makes it a perfect weekend retreat.

6. Cuenca – A City of Hanging Houses

Cuenca’s claim to fame is its ‘hanging houses’, literally, houses that seem to dangle over the edge of a deep canyon. These ancient buildings, perched precariously on the cliffs above the Huecar River, are iconic and definitely worth seeing up close. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of narrow winding streets, perfect for getting lost and stumbling upon quirky shops and cafés. Don’t miss the Museo de Arte Abstracto, which showcases works by Spanish artists like José Guerrero and Fernando Zóbel, who found inspiration in the town’s distinctive landscapes.

After checking out the art, head to Plaza Mayor, the town’s main square, where you can relax with a coffee or snack while taking in the view of the Catedral de Cuenca. The natural beauty surrounding the town is another highlight, especially the Parque Natural de la Serranía de Cuenca, where hiking is a great way to take in the scenery. Semana Santa in Cuenca, in the region of Castilla-La Mancha, is relatively low-key compared to other places in Spain, with less crowded processions that give you the chance to experience the spiritual atmosphere without being overwhelmed.

7. La Alberca – A Picture-Perfect Village in Salamanca

La Alberca is one of those small Spanish villages that seems to exist in a time capsule. Nestled in the Sierra de Francia, it has retained its traditional feel, with cobblestone streets, wooden balconies, and houses that could be straight out of a storybook. The village is one of the best-preserved in Spain, and walking through it feels like stepping back into the past. Visit the Iglesia de Santa María, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century, or take a stroll through the village square where you’ll find a selection of local shops selling handmade goods.

If you’re into hiking, the nearby Parque Natural de las Batuecas-Sierra de Francia has some great trails, with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. La Alberca is a quiet place to unwind, with plenty of fresh air and good food to enjoy. Don’t leave without trying some local embutidos (cured meats), which are a specialty of the region. During Semana Santa, La Alberca’s processions are modest, but they add to the atmosphere of the village.

8. Huesca – A Quiet Retreat in the Pyrenees

Huesca is often overlooked in favor of the more famous tourist spots in the Pyrenees, but it’s the perfect base for those looking to explore the mountains without the crowds. The town itself is full of charm, with its medieval Iglesia de San Pedro and the Huesca Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. The surrounding area, including the Parque Natural de la Sierra y los Cañones de Guara, offers some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in the region, with spectacular views of the Pyrenees.

Huesca’s old town is small enough to explore on foot, with narrow streets and squares that are ideal for people-watching. While you’re in the area, be sure to try the local migas (again, a regional favorite), as well as ternasco de Aragón (roast lamb). Semana Santa in Huesca is a bit quieter, with less fanfare than you’d find in cities like Sevilla or Granada, but it’s still an important event for the locals, and you’ll find processions and celebrations throughout the town.

9. Albarracín – A Fairy-Tale Village in Teruel

Albarracín is one of those places that feels almost too picturesque to be real. This small town in Teruel is tucked away in the mountains and is famous for its red-tinted buildings that blend with the surrounding landscape. The town’s narrow, winding streets lead you through medieval archways and past old stone houses, with each turn offering a new view of the impressive Albarracín Castle sitting above the town. The castle, dating back to the 11th century, has panoramic views of the village and the surrounding forests.

Albarracín is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Spain. Outside the town, the surrounding natural parks provide a great escape for hiking, with beautiful landscapes that make for a relaxing day outdoors. During Semana Santa, Albarracín is relatively quiet, with processions that move through the narrow streets, adding to the town’s relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets or taking in the views from the castle, Albarracín feels like a step back in time.

10. Vitoria-Gasteiz – The Green Capital of Spain

Vitoria-Gasteiz is one of Spain’s lesser-known cities, but it has a fantastic combination of nature, history, and good food. Known as the ‘Green Capital,’ the city is full of parks, and one of the most popular is the Parque de la Florida, which features tree-lined pathways and peaceful spots to relax. The old town is full of character, with medieval buildings and cozy squares where you can stop for a coffee. Don’t miss the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, where you’ll find plenty of tapas bars serving up local favorites like piquillos (red peppers) and txangurro (spider crab).

The Catedral de Santa María is a must-visit, and it’s even possible to take a guided tour of the cathedral’s restoration process, which is ongoing. Vitoria-Gasteiz is also a great base for exploring the surrounding Basque countryside, where you can enjoy hiking or cycling through lush green hills. Semana Santa here is a more relaxed affair compared to other Basque cities, but the local processions still hold plenty of significance. If you’re looking for a city that offers a balance of outdoor activities and city life, Vitoria-Gasteiz is the place to go.

Have you visited any of these destinations before, or are any of them on your list for the upcoming Semana Santa? Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a chance to explore Spain’s history and landscapes, there’s something here for everyone. Let us know where you’re headed or what your plans are for this year’s Semana Santa

Palacio de Sobrellano, Comillas Main image: Wikipedia/Fernando