The medieval social and economic order gave rise to a type of town and village that we consider charming today. They were compact, walled centres built around the church, the market square, and the castle, if one existed.

The streets were narrow, just wide enough for carts and wagons to pass, and artisan guilds formed neighbourhoods (or boroughs). Everything had its place, and everyone had a specific role in the vassalage.

Today, we struggle to see the muddy streets, the smells of spices, cheeses, and meats from the market, or the unsewered roads, and we can’t imagine the heavy footsteps of cows, the cries of an innkeeper, or the cracks of the feudal lord’s whip. Euro Weekly News presents 20 Spanish medieval towns you might want to visit soon.

1. Tossa de Mar ( Girona )

Tossa de Mar is the only example of a fortified medieval settlement still standing on the Catalan coast. The wall was built in the 13th century. The castle no longer remains, and the lighthouse stands in its place. It’s curious: where people once repelled one another with weapons, they now welcome each other with light. In addition to the beaches and the three towers, you’ll find it satisfying to stroll through the narrow streets. During Tossa’s heyday in the 15th and 16th centuries, approximately 80 small houses and their microhistories were clustered here. We recommend a guided tour.

2. Besalú ( Girona )

The Besalú Medieval Festival is held on the last weekend of August. A huge success. It’s hard to find a medieval town as well-preserved as this one. In a very short space, temples, civil buildings, and the entire heritage of Besalú’s medieval Jewish community are woven together. During the festival, there are battles, artisans, grand dinners, and shows—a total immersion in the Middle Ages.

3. Albarracín ( Teruel )

A delve into the etymology reveals small gems of information about the history of Albarracín.   A Muslim group belonging to the Ibn Racin lineage settled here in the 11th century. Albarracín Castle was then the citadel of the Razin family. The town also still preserves the Andador tower and the original layout of the village. Albarracín did not belong to the Crown of Aragon until the 14th century. The visible defensive system is a consequence of the constant war tension it suffered.

4. Aínsa ( Huesca )

At first, it was a castle. Later, it became a wall, the capital of the county of Sobrarbe, and was eventually annexed to the Kingdom of Aragon. Aínsa, in addition to being one of the most beautiful medieval villages, was never conquered by the Muslims. It was so combative that even its church was also conceived as a defensive temple with archways (from which to shoot arrows or spears). Aínsa has been a Historic-Artistic Site since 1965, featuring a castle (11th century), walls, gates, a church (12th century), Arnal House, and Bielsa House (16th century). And the landscape.

5. Ávila

Ávila is a city, yes, but it has an undeniable medieval past. The land of Ávila was a frontier, a no-man’s land, during the Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. Raymond of Burgundy, a relative of King Alfonso VI of León and Castile, repopulated these lands in the 11th century and strengthened them by fortifying the city. The wall gives its character. And it is the symbol of Ávila. During the 14th century, the wall had a moat and drawbridges.

6. Ronda ( Malaga )

Ronda’s medieval Islamic period stands out for the cultural legacy that survives today in its traditions, farming systems, cuisine, and urban planning. In other words, for its influence. Ronda once served as the capital of Takurunna (one of the provinces into which al-Andalus was divided). Ronda’s role during the Nasrid reign of Granada was essential as a border crossing. However, the most significant monuments we admire today in Ronda, the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) and the Plaza de Toros (Bullring), date from the 18th century.

7. Frías ( Burgos )

The first documented mention of Frías dates back to the 9th century, one of the many settlements that appeared during the occupation of the Upper Ebro during Navarre’s struggle against Castile. Yes, Frías belonged to the Kingdom of Navarre. Its name derives from “Aguas Fridas” (Frida Waters), and it seems that Frías’s rise and prominence came during the reign of Alfonso VIII (12th century). High, narrow, and watchful, Frías looks eternal.

8. Olvera ( Cádiz )

In Olvera, there are nooks and crannies typical of the network of alleys. There are also facades of stately homes and small squares, as well as albarradillas (terraces to ease the slopes), at the foot of the castle and the archpriestal church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. All white. Its origins date back to the 12th century, during the Nasrid period, near the Arab castle. The town extends following the levels of the slope, between curves and squares.

9. Olite ( Navarra )

From medieval Olite, we recall the famous fortress-palace, the remains of the Jewish quarter, and the Order of Saint Anthony the Abbot. The House, Monastery, and Hospital belonged to the Antonians of Olite, a town that in the 13th century had 5,000 residents, and its farmland had been granted the Charter of the Franks of Estella. The Jewish quarter, adjacent to the royal palace, had a synagogue (now defunct) and around 16 families. They were part of the artisan, doctor, and moneylender communities. At the end of the Middle Ages, around the 15th century, the kings of Navarre rebuilt the Royal Palace of Navarre, making it one of their principal headquarters. That Olite was splendid.

10. Castellfollit de la Roca ( Girona )

Castellfollit de la Roca is and was one of the smallest municipalities in Catalonia. Today, it is a village with 1,000 inhabitants and an area of ​​1 km2. It is built on a basalt cliff , between the Fluvià and Toronell rivers. The houses are constructed with volcanic stone from the surrounding area. The old town developed in the 13th century, situated on the edge of the cliff and surrounding the Church of Sant Salvador. The streets are narrow and shady. The views are panoramic.

11. La Alberca (Salamanca)

Folk houses are built with stonework and wooden frames. Few towns are as well-preserved as La Alberca. Folk architecture is a gem, preserved not only in museums but also integrated into the daily lives of its residents as if nothing had happened. Throughout its history, La Alberca was influenced by the French and received intense ritualistic encouragement from the Christian religion. La Alberca was repopulated during the 12th and 13th centuries under the leadership of Raimundo de Borgoña, a French nobleman married to Doña Urraca. The history of this place is endless.

12. Pedraza ( Segovia )

Pedraza rises on a hill. Since 1991, it has been declared a Monumental Complex and has become famous for its musical festival held on the first two Saturdays in July: the Candlelight Concert. More than 35,000 candles are lit in the Plaza Mayor, the centre of medieval and modern life in the town. In this arcaded square are the mansions and palaces of Pedraza’s former nobility. Also noteworthy is the 13th-century Church of San Juan Bautista. The cobbled streets and the general aesthetic give it an air that we can’t quite put into words: authentic. We don’t know. The prison used to be located at the only entrance. The prisoners would be the first to fall (literally from the window) on the enemy.

13. Buitrago de Lozoya ( Madrid )

The oldest part of Buitrago is “the town,” in the upper part of the walled enclosure. From there, following the repopulation movements initiated by Alfonso VI (11th century), the population grew so much that two suburbs were formed: the southern one, San Juan, and the northern one, Andarrío, across the Lozoya River. There were four churches in the town, of which Santa María del Castillo remains, and a hospital, founded by the Marquis of Santillana (15th century). Few places boast such a well-preserved Arab defensive system.

14. Peñafiel ( Valladolid )

Peñafiel was captured by the Arabs in the 10th century and conquered by the Christians in the 11th century. A rare and ingenious castle dominates the skyline, arranged like a linear ship on the hill. At its feet, the town. None other than Prince Don Juan Manuel, nephew of Alfonso X the Wise, took possession of Peñafiel. The town prospered, eventually boasting 18 churches and cultivating a thriving artistic movement. Its heritage includes the Plaza del Coso, the Castle, the Clock Tower, and the well-preserved popular architecture, as well as four outstanding churches.

15. Sigüenza ( Guadalajara )

Sigüenza is the quintessential medieval town in Guadalajara. During the Muslim era, Sigüenza was dedicated to defence: the castle (the citadel) overlooking the Henares Valley dominated the town’s life. The Christians conquered Sigüenza around the 12th century, although it was not pacified. The town preserves its medieval layout, and the influence of the bishopric is evident during six centuries of cultural domination. The walls, the Casa El Doncel, the Plaza de la Cárcel, and the Cathedral are the main monuments of medieval Sigüenza. And it’s gastronomy.

16. Alquezar ( Huesca )

Alquézar is located in Huesca . This town is located above a canyon shaped by the Vero River, which has become a paradise for canyoning and birdwatching. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Somontano, Alquézar offers a wide variety of hiking and mountain biking trails. In the town centre, don’t miss a visit to the castle, which crowns the town and offers the best views of the surrounding area. We also recommend visiting the Plaza Mayor, the Collegiate Church of Santa María, the Museum of Sacred Art, the dam, and the bridges of l’Albarda and Villacantal.

17. Maderuelo ( Segovia )

At the beginning of the Riaza River Gorges in Segovia is Maderuelo. A walled medieval town declared a Historic-Artistic Site, it sits on a hill surrounded by the Linares Reservoir. In addition to enjoying incredible views, Maderuelo offers the opportunity to visit the Romanesque churches of San Miguel and Santa María. Also worth a visit is the tower, which was once the castle, the Castroboda hermitage, and the Santa Cruz hermitage. The Hoces de Riaza Natural Park is home to one of the largest vulture reserves in Spain.

18. Siurana ( Tarragona )

In the Priorat region lies Siurana de Prades, a breathtaking medieval village. It sits at an altitude of over 700 meters, perched on a cliff. Its location makes Siurana a luxurious vantage point in the Montsant Mountains, overlooking the valley and the river.

19. Alcalá del Júcar (Albacete)

With just 1,200 inhabitants, Alcalá del Júcar is one of the most picturesque towns in Castilla-La Mancha. Located in the province of Albacete, the Roman bridge spanning the Júcar River is its most iconic attraction and a popular spot for photos. In addition to a 15th-century medieval castle and an inspiring historic centre, the town’s most significant features include its cave houses, particularly the Devil’s Caves and Masagó Caves, which are scattered throughout the area.

20. Allariz ( Ourense )

Allariz is tradition, legend, and history. This small town in Ourense was born around a fort located on the banks of the Arnoia River. Now a Historic-Artistic Site, its intense heritage began to take shape back in the 11th century, when King Alfonso VI ordered the construction of a castle. Centuries later, Sancho IV, not without reason, said of Allariz that it was “the key to the Kingdom of Galicia.” Today, its charm is evident and can be felt in every street, where legends such as those of the Werewolf or Santa Mariña das Augas Santas emanate, without forgetting the figure of Vicente Risco, an essential figure in the history and defence of the Galician language.

Spain has hundreds of fascinating cities and towns, but very few manage to captivate visitors without resorting to great fanfare. One of them is Cádiz, a magical city that seems to float between the Atlantic and history, between the salt flats and the memories of ancient navigators.

It’s no coincidence that in recent years, this Andalusian city has become an increasingly recommended destination, even by the international media, including The Sun.

It’s a Spanish city with direct flights to and from the United Kingdom. It has been compared to the Caribbean island of Cuba, with its beaches and streets used to film famous Hollywood films. “It has Havana-like streets and a James Bond beach,” The Sun wrote. Founded by Phoenician navigators 3,129 years ago, some 80 years after the Trojan War, Cadiz is one of Western Europe’s oldest cities and is surrounded by water on three sides.

More than 100 watchtowers

This ancient port city in the Andalucia region of southwestern Spain is the home to the Spanish Navy. Its port boomed in the 16th century as a base for exploration and trade. 

It has more than 100 watchtowers, including the iconic Torre Tavira, which was traditionally used for spotting ships. On the waterfront stands the domed 18th-century Cádiz Cathedral, featuring a blend of Baroque and Neoclassical elements.

And now it’s nicknamed the “Cuba of Europe,” a comparison that is far from exaggeration. The comparison is based on real aspects, ranging from its architecture to its coastal atmosphere and vibrant spirit.

The similarities between Cádiz and Havana are uncanny, and those who visit its narrow streets, with flower-filled balconies, facades weathered by the sea breeze, and music vibrating in every corner, immediately understand the nickname.

The Cuba of Europe

However, Cádiz is much more than a Caribbean postcard in southern Europe: it is living history, tradition, sea, and soul.

Tourists from the United Kingdom represent one of the largest groups of visitors to Spain, accounting for almost 20 per cent of all foreign tourists. However, it’s unusual for the country’s press to focus on less crowded destinations like Cádiz. 

Therefore, the Sun’s recent report labelling this city “the Cuba of Europe” has generated unexpected attention, sparking the curiosity of many English-speaking travellers.

This name comes from the similarity between Cadiz’s old town and the colonial streets of Havana. Walking through Cadiz can, at times, be reminiscent of a transoceanic voyage without having left Spain.

History lives in its streets

The historic centre, completely surrounded by the sea, is a labyrinth of narrow streets that suddenly open into squares bathed in the Atlantic light. Here, the white stone of the buildings, eroded by centuries of wind and salt, combines with the bright colours of wrought-iron balconies, creating an atmosphere that undoubtedly recalls the more traditional neighbourhoods of Old Havana.

One of the reasons that has most contributed to this comparison between Cádiz and Cuba is the cinema. In 2002, the James Bond saga chose a very special location to recreate a legendary scene from “Die Another Day.” 

In the film, the agent, played by Halle Berry, is supposed to emerge from the waters of a Cuban beach. However, what few people know is that the scene, so vividly remembered by fans, was filmed on La Caleta beach.

A symbol of the city

Located in the heart of the city centre, La Caleta is a symbol of the city. With its mere 450 metres in length, fine sand, and surroundings dominated by ancient bastions, it has captivated the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Its location between two castles (Santa Catalina and San Sebastián) reinforces the cinematic and exotic character that makes it unique.

Unlike other destinations in Andalusia, which can sometimes be overcrowded with tourists, Cádiz retains a certain air of mystery.

Although it’s increasingly welcoming visitors, especially in the summer and during Carnival, the city retains its identity. It’s a place where you can stroll leisurely, where waiters remember your name, and where the sound of the sea is never far away.

This balance between authenticity and beauty is one of the reasons why many British travellers, and those of other nationalities, are beginning to discover Cádiz as a perfect alternative to more well-known destinations.

This Andalusian city doesn’t need big advertising campaigns or dazzling monuments to win over visitors. It does so with its character, its light, its stories told from street corners, and its golden sunsets over the Atlantic.

The Bozar Restaurant in Brussels has been ranked among the world’s 100 best restaurants. It was placed 63rd in the extended ’51-100′ list in the UK’s ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025’ ranking.

“Spread across 25 destinations and 37 cities, the extended list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, features some of the most esteemed dining spots in the world,” the World’s Best 50 website said.

“With exciting new entries from places including Atxondo, Fürstenau, Macau, Queenstown, São Paulo, San Francisco and Tulum, prepare your palate to feast on the 51-100 list 2025,” it added.

Housed in the famous Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels city centre, the Belgian restaurant is now featured on the list for the second year in a row, at precisely the same spot as in 2024.

“Bozar is the culinary jewel in the crown of Brussels’ Art Deco Centre for Fine Arts – the last building ever to have been designed by architectural luminary Victor Horta,” the organisation said on its website. 

“In 2018, Armenian-born chef Karen Torosyan fulfilled a long-held ambition by buying out the venue he had helped establish,” it added.

While the restaurant’s descriptor has changed from ‘Brasserie’ to ‘Restaurant’, the organisation stressed that the menus still feature “the same sort of artisan-led, New Belgian fare with which Torosyan made his name.”

‘Immensely proud’

On social media, Torosyan said he was “honoured and immensely proud” to be included in the ranking for the second consecutive year. 

“For 15 years, our restaurant has never stopped evolving. I like to think of our house as a living entity, shaped with patience, exacting standards, and precision,” the chef said.

Torosyan stressed that the restaurant team and cuisine are committed to upholding the same values as ever before.

“We are true to our heritage, and always looking ahead,” the chef said, while thanking his team and those who went and dined at his restaurant.

“The dedication and shared values of our team make achievements like this possible, keeping our spirit elegant, warm, and inspiring,” he added.

Bozar is the only Belgian restaurant in 2025 to be included in this extended ranking. It was also awarded two Michelin stars recently and achieved a 17.5 out of 20 rating from the Gault & Millau gastronomic guide.

In 2024, the two-Michelin-starred Antwerp restaurant The Jane was ranked 36th on the list. Whether it will have moved up or down in the ranking will be publicly known on June 19th.