Best cities to live in Spain
More people move to Spain from other countries every year, and it says a lot about why Spain is a great place to live. But what are the Spanish cities with the best quality of life? This is what the Spaniards have to say about it.
What ’quality of life’ means
Although most of us have a general idea of the concept of quality of life, it is true that it depends on the eyes that look at it, so let us define it before diving into the best places to live in Spain. This list takes into account how walkable a city is, how many parks and pedestrian zones it has, if it is polluted… But another important factor is the quality of local public services, including healthcare and means of transportation.
Besides, the diversity regarding its demand for labour and commercial offer is decisive too. The cost of living is another important economic factor, the one that really makes the difference. And last but not least, its leisure and cultural offerings, which are what really add quality to our daily lives. Discover the best cities to live in Spain.
Ranking of the cities with the best quality of life
10. Reus
This is probably the least popular city on this list, but Reus was Cataluña’s second city for a long time. A priceless Modernist heritage was left from that golden age, and it surprises everyone who visits the place with its impressive houses and palaces.
Nowadays, Reus is still a very active city, and its commercial spirit is still very much alive. Besides, it sits in a privileged location, near Tarragona, the Costa Dorada, and an area filled with charming villages and natural spaces.
9. Pontevedra
This provincial capital committed to innovation by pedestrianising the streets of its city centre, which is now the perfect place for a quiet walk. It has a reputation for its safety and cosiness, and its population is relatively young.
Its beautiful town centre and its elegant architecture are some of the reasons behind Pontevedra’s fame as a tourist destination. It sits next to lovely Galician beaches and natural landscapes.
8. Pamplona
The Navarrese capital is one of the greenest cities in Spain, with a population-to-tree ratio above average. This inclination for nature is perceived in one of its most fascinating corners: the powerful star-shaped fortress that is now a public park.
Pamplona's history remains alive in each one of its streets. And let us not forget about its popular festivity: San Fermín.
7. Jerez de la Frontera
Finally, we reached southern Spain. No other place has Jerez’s art. The art of its people, of flamenco, of its wonderful tapas. And a glass of Jerez wine only makes it better.
Its heritage is full of wonders, such as its magnificent alcázar or its cathedral. It develops an important economic activity, and while the lack of beaches can’t be ignored, many Atlantic gems are very close to Jerez.
6. Vitoria
The high prices of the other Basque capitals make Vitoria the perfect alternative to enjoy life. Its long history and the good old Basque lifestyle are still alive on its streets. Besides, it sits in an area of interesting industrial development.
It is a safe city whose gastronomy won’t leave you indifferent, and there are parks and samples of its heritage in every corner. For instance, it is one of the few cities that have two cathedrals instead of one.
5. Valladolid
Some people might be discouraged by the rough climate of this capital of Castilla y León, but once you dive into its impressive heritage, you will fall in love with it.
There are many parks and green areas, as well as many restaurants and bars. The bustle of its student life turns into a young, lively atmosphere. For all these reasons, Valladolid is always mentioned when talking about cities with a good quality of life.
4. Avilés
Gijón might have beaches, and Oviedo might have a unique heritage, but Avilés is the Asturian city people want to live in.
It is so loved thanks to its nice town centre, full of interesting testimonies of its rich history as well as pioneering cultural offerings that come to life in the spectacular Centro Niemeyer. This city is located in the heart of Asturias, so it is perfect to enjoy every wonder of Asturias.
3. Arrecife
Although Arrecife is the only true city in Lanzarote, it still has that slow, hedonistic lifestyle so typical of the island. Insularity might have its cons, but one forgets it when walking along its wonderful beaches or its infinite seaside promenade, the longest promenade in the world.
Everything in Lanzarote is within hand's reach, and its services, such as its hospital or guagua (bus) network, are exceptional. It is no wonder why it has reached the top of this ranking of the Spanish cities with the best quality of life.
2. Vigo
It is no surprise that Vigo belongs in this ranking and sits near its above-mentioned rival, Pontevedra. The rías have that power. Vigo is known for its good quality of life, which results from its lively atmosphere, its economic fabric, and the reasonable cost of living in the area.
Its Christmas lights are very popular, but there is something special about every season in Vigo. If we also consider the nonexistent distance to other famous spots in Galicia, it is obvious why Vigo is one of the best Spanish cities to live in.
1. Granada
You only need to imagine the sight of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada to understand that there is no matching rival for Granada. Besides the beauty of its insuperable nazarí heritage and the charm of neighbourhoods such as Albaicín, the city offers a nice climate, infinite leisure opportunities, and a great economic fabric.
However, its lively atmosphere, its delicious tapas, its young population, its music, and its magic add that final touch that earns it the first spot.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.
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