Everything you ever wanted to know about the Balearic Islands

The Mediterranean’s most sought-after destination

The Balearic Islands are much more than the group of four stunning islands—Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera—that have captivated travelers for decades. For international property buyers, these Mediterranean jewels represent one of Europe’s most compelling real estate opportunities, offering an unbeatable combination of year-round sunshine, robust rental markets, and a quality of life that has attracted over 200,000 international residents.

Whether you’re dreaming of a holiday home where your family can create lasting memories, seeking an investment property in one of Europe’s most visited destinations, planning your retirement in a place where healthcare exceeds expectations, or looking to establish a base for remote work in paradise, each island offers distinct advantages tailored to different property goals.

The numbers speak for themselves: with over 11 million tourists visiting annually, properties here benefit from exceptional rental demand. International buyers represent over 40% of all property purchases, with British, German, Dutch, and French nationals leading the way. The islands have recovered strongly from the 2008 crisis, with property values in prime locations now exceeding their historical peaks, yet still offering compelling value compared to similar destinations in France or Italy.

These pearls of the Mediterranean continue to be the preferred destination for discerning property buyers who understand that owning here isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about securing a piece of one of Europe’s most desirable lifestyles.

Why are the Balearic Islands a paradise on earth?

One of the best destinations to spend the summer is Ibiza. If you’re looking for a party, this is the place to be. Apart from the mad nights, Ibiza also offers a range of other activities, including visiting its beaches and coves, savoring the variety of dishes and traditional island drinks, and purchasing handcrafted items at its local markets.

For lovers of culture, the Castell de Bellver, located in Palma de Mallorca (capital of the Balearic Islands), is one of the few in Europe with a circular floor plan. From its walls, you will have the best views of the Bay of Palma and the Sierra de Tramuntana.

On the same island of Mallorca, in the south, are the small Islands of “Es Vedrà”. This islet (one of the most visited points of the Balearic Islands) has a height of 385 meters, and since 2002, it has been considered a natural reserve (to enter, you need a permit).

If what you are looking for is more tranquillity, the islands of Menorca and Formentera are the best. The first, renowned for its coves and tranquil beaches, is the ideal destination for couples and families. The second, smaller, but no less visited (its proximity to Ibiza makes it a good day getaway), offers beaches that could be from the Caribbean itself, thanks to the green and turquoise colour of its waters.

Of course, the weather is outstanding. Check the monthly weather statistics for Mallorca before booking your holidays.

The Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca

Let’s start with gastronomy 🙂

Gastronomy is a fundamental part of the Balearic Islands, as they treasure a great diversity of exquisite, high-quality products, including oil, ensaimada, sobrasada, cheese, wine, flaó, herbs, and sea salt. All these products are deeply rooted in the land, its traditions, and the unique characteristics of each island, giving them a distinct identity based on authenticity, quality, and tradition. All these products can be found in markets, wineries, and restaurants. Furthermore, it is possible, and at the same time very advisable, to take any of these foods unique to these islands as a souvenir.

Must-See Places of the Balearic Islands and Prime Property Locations

According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), the population of the Balearic Islands exceeds 1,100,000 people. The most populated island is Mallorca, with almost 900,000 inhabitants. Ibiza and Menorca have around 100,000 inhabitants, while Formentera has a population of just over 10,000 people.

Understanding what makes each area special is crucial when choosing where to invest your money and your future. The Balearic Islands offer far more than beautiful beaches—each location has its own story and provides different opportunities for property buyers.

Mallorca: The Island That Has Everything

Palma Cathedral and the Historic Center form the beating heart of Balearic life, where Gothic architecture meets contemporary Mediterranean living. The area surrounding the cathedral, known as Casco Antiguo, has become increasingly sought-after by international buyers seeking luxury apartments and historic buildings with character. Properties here aren’t just homes—they’re pieces of living history, with many buildings dating back centuries, now carefully restored to offer modern amenities while preserving their authentic charm. The neighborhood’s proximity to Palma’s best restaurants, galleries, and cultural sites makes it particularly attractive to buyers who want to immerse themselves in authentic Spanish culture while enjoying urban conveniences.

The Serra de Tramuntana, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a completely different property experience. This dramatic mountain range, stretching along Mallorca’s northwest coast, is home to some of the island’s most exclusive fincas and rural estates. Properties in this area often come with olive groves, citrus orchards, and panoramic views that extend to the sea. The mountain villages of Valldemossa, Deià, and Soller have become magnets for international celebrities and artists, driving property values while maintaining their authentic Mallorcan character. For buyers seeking privacy, natural beauty, and investment potential, the Tramuntana region represents some of the island’s finest opportunities.

Soller Valley deserves special mention for its unique combination of accessibility and authenticity. The famous vintage train that connects Palma to Soller isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a testament to the area’s enduring appeal. Properties in Soller town and the coastal Port de Soller benefit from this direct connection to the capital while maintaining their traditional charm. The valley’s citrus groves and traditional architecture create an atmosphere that attracts both holiday home buyers and those seeking permanent relocation.

Alcudia’s Roman ruins and family beaches represent northern Mallorca’s appeal to families and cultural enthusiasts. The well-preserved Roman walls and archaeological sites create a unique backdrop for property ownership. At the same time, the excellent beaches and family-friendly infrastructure make this area particularly appealing to buyers with children. Properties here benefit from consistent tourism demand while offering access to some of the island’s most important historical sites.

Valldemossa village has achieved legendary status among international property buyers, thanks partly to its association with Chopin and George Sand. This picturesque mountain village offers some of Mallorca’s most exclusive properties, where traditional stone architecture meets modern luxury. The village’s artistic heritage continues to attract creative professionals and cultural enthusiasts who value both beauty and authenticity in their property investments.

Cala Mondragó Natural Park represents the growing trend toward eco-luxury property development. This protected area offers properties that strike a balance between environmental responsibility and luxury living, appealing to buyers who prioritize sustainability without compromising on quality. The natural park’s protection ensures that development remains limited, supporting long-term property values.

The island of Mallorca can be reached by boat or plane (its airport is the third-largest in Spain). There are also multiple sea connections with Ibiza, Menorca, Barcelona, Valencia, and other cities in Spain and the Mediterranean. The airport of Mallorca offers routes to the main cities of Spain and Europe. Many roads can take you anywhere on the island. There is also a train line that crosses the island from the south (Palma de Mallorca) to the north.

Ibiza: Where Lifestyle Meets Investment Returns

Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s UNESCO-protected old town, represents the pinnacle of exclusive Mediterranean living. Properties within these ancient fortified walls are among the most coveted real estate assets in Europe. The combination of historical significance, stunning harbor views, and proximity to the island’s cultural heart creates property values that have consistently outperformed broader market trends. For buyers who can afford the premium pricing, Dalt Vila offers not just a home, but membership in one of the Mediterranean’s most exclusive communities.

The western coastline, dominated by the mystical Es Vedra rock formation, has become synonymous with luxury living. Villas perched on cliffs overlooking this dramatic seascape command some of Spain’s highest property prices, but also deliver exceptional rental returns from visitors willing to pay premium rates for this iconic setting. The sunset views from these properties have become Instagram-famous, driving demand from both traditional luxury buyers and a new generation of digital influencers and entrepreneurs.

Sant Antoni’s Sunset Strip offers a unique investment opportunity, centered on the tourism infrastructure that drives Ibiza’s economy. Properties here benefit from the island’s reputation as a world-class entertainment destination; however, buyers should carefully consider the balance between rental income potential and their lifestyle preferences.

The Cala d’Hort beach area offers some of Ibiza’s most dramatic natural settings, with properties providing direct views of Es Vedra and access to pristine beaches. The area has become popular with buyers seeking luxury accommodations that prioritize natural beauty over proximity to nightlife.

Las Salinas salt flats and beach represent Ibiza’s unique combination of natural protection and luxury development. The area’s status as a nature reserve limits new construction while providing a stunning backdrop for existing properties. This combination of environmental protection and luxury amenities creates a unique value proposition for discerning buyers.

In Ibiza, a well-developed road network connects every corner of the island, and various bus lines serve the populated areas. The airport of Ibiza has flights to the largest cities in Spain and Europe. There are also boat connections to the other Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera), as well as to Barcelona and Valencia.

Menorca: The Peaceful Investment

Ciutadella, Menorca’s former capital, showcases some of the most elegant architecture in the Balearics. The town’s historic port, lined with noble palaces and traditional fishermen’s houses, creates a sophisticated atmosphere that attracts discerning property buyers. Unlike Ibiza’s party scene or Mallorca’s bustling tourist areas, Ciutadella offers refined tranquility. Properties here, whether historic town houses overlooking the port or modern apartments near the marina, appeal to buyers who appreciate authentic Mediterranean culture without the crowds.

The island’s pristine southern beaches, including the famous Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta, remain largely undeveloped thanks to Menorca’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. This protection means that properties near these beaches are rare and highly valued. For investment buyers, this scarcity creates long-term value protection that’s difficult to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

Menorca also has a well-developed road network that connects every corner of the island. The airport of Menorca, located near Mahón, has connections to the main Spanish cities. Additionally, there are boat connections to the other Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera), as well as to Barcelona and Valencia.

Monte Toro, the island’s highest point, offers properties with 360-degree views across the entire island. The central location provides easy access to both the north and south coasts while maintaining the rural tranquility that makes Menorca special. Properties in this area appeal to buyers seeking authentic island living without sacrificing accessibility.

Mahón, the capital, boasts a unique blend of British colonial architecture that reflects the island’s fascinating history. The natural harbor, one of the largest in the Mediterranean, provides a dramatic setting for waterfront properties. The town’s Georgian influences create a distinctive architectural character that sets Menorcan properties apart from other Mediterranean destinations.

Formentera: The Ultimate Exclusive Retreat

Ses Illetes beach, consistently ranked among the world’s finest, defines Formentera’s appeal to ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury properties. The handful of properties with direct beach access or sea views command prices that rival the French Riviera, but with the authenticity and tranquility that have largely disappeared from other Mediterranean hotspots. For buyers seeking the ultimate exclusive retreat, Formentera offers what money often can’t buy elsewhere—genuine isolation and pristine natural beauty.

The island’s eastern plateau around La Mola lighthouse has become a haven for artists and creative professionals, creating a unique micro-market for characterful properties that blend traditional architecture with contemporary artistic vision. These properties appeal to buyers who value creativity and authenticity over pure luxury.

Estany Pudent lagoon and natural reserves provide opportunities for buyers who prioritize environmental consciousness. Properties near these protected areas offer unique natural settings while supporting the island’s commitment to sustainable development. The limited availability of such properties creates natural scarcity that promotes long-term value appreciation.

Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic Islands, features a main road that runs the entire length of the island. The rest are dirt roads that lead to the beaches. The port has multiple daily connections with Ibiza.

Choosing Your Island: Matching Properties to Your Lifestyle Goals

Each island in the Balearic archipelago has developed its own character and property market dynamics. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed investment decisions tailored to your specific needs and goals.

For Holiday Home Buyers

Mallorca remains the overwhelming favorite for families and couples seeking a holiday home they’ll use regularly throughout the year. The island’s superior infrastructure ensures that even if you visit for only a few weeks annually, your property remains accessible and well-maintained. The extensive flight network from Northern Europe—with direct connections to over 100 European cities—makes spontaneous weekend breaks entirely feasible. Property management services are well-established, offering a range of services from basic maintenance to complete concierge services for arriving guests.

Menorca appeals to holiday home buyers who prioritize tranquility over convenience. The island’s deliberate development restrictions mean fewer crowds and a more authentic experience, but this comes with trade-offs in terms of flight connectivity and service availability. For families with young children or buyers who prefer peaceful relaxation over nightlife and activities, Menorca’s offering is unmatched in the Mediterranean.

Ibiza offers the most dynamic holiday home experience, particularly for buyers who appreciate the island’s world-renowned social scene. The combination of luxury amenities, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches creates a unique atmosphere that appeals to buyers seeking excitement alongside relaxation. However, the higher prices and seasonal crowds require careful consideration of usage patterns and investment goals.

Formentera represents the ultimate in exclusive holiday home ownership, offering privacy and natural beauty that’s increasingly rare in the Mediterranean. The limited property availability and extremely high prices mean this option is reserved for buyers who prioritize exclusivity above all other considerations.

For Investment Property Buyers

Ibiza continues to deliver the strongest rental yields in the Balearics, with prime properties achieving annual returns that can exceed 8-10%. The island’s reputation for luxury and exclusivity allows property owners to command premium rental rates year-round, not just during summer months. However, these higher returns come with higher purchase prices and increased competition from other investors.

Mallorca offers more balanced investment opportunities, with steady yields of 4-6% and lower volatility, compared to Ibiza. The diversified tourism market—from cultural tourists visiting Palma to hiking enthusiasts in the mountains—creates year-round demand, reducing seasonal rental risks. For investors seeking steady returns with capital preservation, Mallorca’s established market provides reassuring stability.

Menorca represents the archipelago’s best value opportunity for patient investors. Current property prices remain below their potential given the island’s UNESCO protection and improving tourism infrastructure. The limited new supply due to environmental restrictions creates long-term scarcity value that should support price appreciation over time.

Formentera offers investment opportunities for ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking trophy assets rather than traditional rental yields. The extreme exclusivity and limited supply create a market more similar to art collecting than conventional real estate investment.

For Retirement Living

Mallorca’s healthcare infrastructure makes it the clear choice for retirees prioritizing medical access and quality. The island’s university hospital rivals any European medical facility, while the large international community ensures English-speaking healthcare professionals are readily available. The established expatriate community, comprising over 80,000 international residents, means newcomers can easily find social connections and practical support.

For retirees seeking a quieter pace of life, Menorca offers excellent healthcare in Mahón combined with a more intimate island community. The lower cost of living and reduced tourist pressure create an environment where retirees can integrate more easily into local life while still maintaining connections to international culture.

Ibiza attracts retirees who want to maintain an active social life within an international community. The island’s year-round cultural calendar and sophisticated dining scene appeal to retirees who view their relocation as an opportunity for new experiences rather than a quiet retreat.

Formentera appeals to retirees seeking ultimate tranquility and connection to nature. The island’s small size and limited development create a unique environment for those who prioritize peace and natural beauty above urban conveniences.

For Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Mallorca has emerged as a significant hub for remote work, with Palma developing a thriving co-working scene and startup ecosystem. The island’s fiber internet infrastructure now matches that of major European cities, while the international business community offers networking opportunities that can enhance career development alongside lifestyle benefits.

Ibiza attracts creative professionals and entrepreneurs who value the island’s inspirational environment and the networking opportunities it offers within the creative industries. The higher cost of living is often justified by the unique business connections and innovative collaborations that emerge from the island’s dynamic international community.

Menorca offers remote workers seeking work-life balance in a peaceful environment. The improving internet infrastructure and lower costs make it attractive to digital nomads who prioritize tranquility and natural beauty over urban amenities and networking opportunities.

Formentera provides the ultimate retreat for remote workers who can operate independently and value complete disconnection from urban pressures. The limited infrastructure makes this option most suitable for established professionals who don’t require extensive business networking or services.

Balearic Islands map

Our Balearic Islands map is available for easy download. Don’t hesitate.

Find everything on the Costa del Blanca: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities, and last but not least the top beaches.

Download our map of the Balearic Islands here

The Reality of Living in the Balearics

Beyond the apparent attractions of sunshine and beaches, international residents discover that the Balearic Islands offer a quality of life that often exceeds their expectations, supported by infrastructure and services that make permanent or extended living both comfortable and practical.

Healthcare Excellence that exceeds expectations

The Balearic Islands’ healthcare system consistently ranks among Europe’s finest, often surprising newcomers with its quality and accessibility. The main hospital in Palma, Son Espases, is a state-of-the-art facility that serves as a teaching hospital for the University of the Balearic Islands, ensuring access to the latest medical innovations and specialist treatments. International residents regularly comment that healthcare here exceeds what they experienced in their home countries, both in terms of quality and responsiveness.

For non-EU residents, private healthcare insurance costs significantly less than equivalent coverage in Northern Europe while providing access to the same high-quality facilities and English-speaking medical professionals. The mild climate contributes to improved health outcomes, with many residents reporting improvements in conditions such as arthritis, respiratory issues, and overall well-being after relocating to the islands.

Education and Family Life

International families find that the islands offer exceptional educational opportunities that often surpass what’s available in major European cities. The British School of Mallorca, Queen’s College, and other international institutions offer world-class education based on familiar curricula, complemented by the invaluable benefit of multilingual development. Children typically become fluent in Spanish and Catalan while maintaining their native language, creating advantages that last throughout their lives.

The outdoor lifestyle available year-round means children develop strong connections to nature and outdoor activities that are increasingly rare in urban European environments. Many families report that their children become more independent, confident, and culturally aware as a result of growing up in this international island community.

The Digital Revolution

The transformation of internet infrastructure across the islands has been remarkable, with fiber connections now reaching even remote rural properties. This digital revolution has enabled the islands to attract a new generation of remote workers and digital entrepreneurs who can maintain international careers while enjoying Mediterranean living. Palma’s co-working spaces have become networking hubs where international professionals collaborate on projects spanning multiple continents.

Community and Integration

Perhaps most surprisingly for newcomers, the Balearic Islands have developed some of Europe’s most welcoming international communities. Unlike traditional expatriate enclaves that remain separate from local culture, the islands’ international residents often develop deep connections with Spanish neighbors and a genuine appreciation for local traditions. This integration is facilitated by the inherently relaxed Mediterranean approach to life and the islands’ long history of welcoming visitors who choose to make them their home.

The cost of living, although higher than in mainland Spain, remains significantly lower than in equivalent lifestyle destinations in Northern Europe. A comfortable lifestyle that might require substantial wealth in London, Paris, or Amsterdam becomes accessible to middle-class professionals in the Balearics, creating opportunities for life changes that seemed impossible in more expensive European cities.

Events and parties

As it is, the Balearic Islands also have a wide range of parties. For example, in Palma de Mallorca the city day is celebrated on January 20 (fiestas de San Sebastián) where small bonfires called ” foguerons ” are made. On the same island, in Pollença, the Feast of Our Lady of the Angels is celebrated on August 2, where Joan Mas’s fight against the invading pirates is reenacted.

In Mahón, Menorca, the carnival is celebrated in February. On the same island, specifically in Ciutadella, the Fiestas de San Juan are celebrated at the end of June, making it one of the most attractive festivals in Spain. The celebration of this population dates back more than 600 years. One of the highlights of the celebrations is when the horses get caught up in the crowd of the public.

On August 24, San Bartolomé celebrates essential cultural and sports festivities in San Antonio, Ibiza.

In Formentera, on August 5, a very popular party is celebrated, that of Santa María de las Nieves, with cultural events.

Cala Agula, Mallorca

The Balearic Islands Property Market

Outperforming Spain in a challenging environment

The real estate market in the Balearic Islands has delivered one of Europe’s most impressive property market performances, significantly outpacing both national trends in Spain and most international alternatives. The data reveal a market that has not only recovered from previous challenges but has also established itself as a premium European destination, where scarcity and international demand continue to drive exceptional returns.

Outstanding Price Performance: nearly 10% annual growth

The numbers tell a compelling story of market strength. From the first quarter of 2022 to the end of 2024, Balearic property prices surged from €2,511 to €3,316 per square meter—a remarkable 32.1% total appreciation over three years, representing an annualized growth rate of 9.7%. This performance becomes even more impressive when compared to the Spanish national market, which grew from €1,734 to €1,972 per square meter over the same period, delivering a total growth of 13.7% and a more modest annualized appreciation of 4.4%.

Balearic Islands property market performance vs Spain mainland through December 2024, showing 77% total growth since 2013 compared to Spain’s 34%, with current prices at €3,316/m² vs €1,972/m² nationally. The chart illustrates three distinct market phases: synchronized growth (1995-2007), crisis response (2008-2014), and premium market emergence (2015-2025) across four diverse island property markets.

The Balearic Islands haven’t just outperformed the national market—they’ve dramatically expanded their premium positioning. In early 2022, Balearic properties commanded a 45% premium over the national average in Spain. By the end of 2024, this premium had expanded to 68%, reflecting growing international recognition of the islands’ unique value proposition. This expanding premium suggests that the Balearics are increasingly viewed as a distinct asset class rather than simply expensive Spanish real estate.

Market Resilience despite volume normalization

While prices have soared, transaction volumes tell a more nuanced story that strengthens the investment case. Quarterly transactions in the Balearics declined from 4,797 in Q1 2022 to 4,295 in Q4 2024, representing a 10.5% decrease over the three years. However, this decline closely mirrors the Spanish national pattern, where transactions fell from 175,383 to 159,051 quarterly sales, a 9.3% decrease over the same period.

This parallel decline suggests that the Balearic market isn’t experiencing unique demand challenges but rather reflecting broader European real estate normalization following the post-pandemic surge. The critical difference lies in price resilience: while transaction volumes normalized, Balearic prices continued their upward trajectory, indicating that serious buyers remain willing to pay premium prices for quality properties.

The Quality over Quantity market dynamic

The combination of declining transaction volumes with accelerating price growth reveals a market increasingly driven by quality rather than quantity. The peak quarterly activity of 5,365 transactions in Q2 2022 coincided with the post-pandemic reopening rush, when pent-up international demand created exceptional market activity. As this initial surge normalized, the market has settled into a pattern where fewer, but more committed buyers, compete for the limited premium inventory.

This evolution benefits serious property buyers in multiple ways. The reduced speculative activity means fewer properties being purchased purely for short-term flipping, while sustained price growth validates long-term value creation. International buyers now compete primarily with other serious owners rather than opportunistic speculators, creating a more stable foundation for community development and property maintenance standards.

Comparative Performance: Why the Balearics Lead

The 9.7% annual price appreciation in the Balearics, compared to 4.4% nationally, reflects fundamental differences in market dynamics. While mainland Spanish markets benefit from urban development and economic growth, the Balearics offer something increasingly rare: genuine scarcity combined with growing international demand.

The Spanish national market, despite solid performance, faces the reality of virtually unlimited developable land in many regions. The Balearics, constrained by UNESCO protections, water limitations, and environmental regulations, are unable to increase their supply to meet growing demand. This scarcity premium, reflected in the expanding price differential with mainland Spain, creates structural support for continued appreciation that doesn’t exist in markets with flexible supply responses.

Island-Specific Performance Within the Archipelago

While the overall Balearic figures show exceptional performance, individual islands have experienced varying degrees of appreciation. Formentera has achieved the extraordinary distinction of becoming Spain’s most expensive municipality, with prices reaching €9,000 per square meter in December 2024. Prices have remained high, with values above €10,000 per square meter in recent months. This places the island among the Mediterranean’s most exclusive real estate destinations.

Ibiza continues to command exceptional prices across different market segments, with prime municipalities like San José averaging €8,000 per square meter, while maintaining its position as a year-round luxury destination rather than just a summer party spot. The island’s evolution has attracted ultra-high-net-worth individuals who view properties as alternative investments comparable to art or rare collectibles.

Mallorca’s diverse market has consistently delivered strong returns, with remarkable regional variation. Prime Palma neighborhoods have experienced extraordinary growth, with 2024 providing an annual appreciation of 24.5% to reach more than €5,000 per square meter, making it Spain’s fourth most expensive capital city. The contrast with more affordable areas, such as Sa Pobla, at under €2,000 per square meter, highlights the island’s unique ability to cater to different buyer segments while maintaining a premium positioning across all price ranges.

Menorca, starting from a lower baseline, has delivered exceptional value appreciation while maintaining its position as the archipelago’s most accessible entry point. Despite average prices remaining below those of other islands, the UNESCO protection and growing recognition create significant appreciation potential for patient investors.

Investment Returns in an international context

The 9.7% annual appreciation rate places Balearic real estate among Europe’s top-performing asset classes over the recent period. These returns exceed those of most European stock markets, bond yields, and alternative investments, while also providing the additional benefits of personal use and rental income potential. When combined with rental yields of 4-8% depending on location and property type, total returns for well-positioned Balearic properties have regularly exceeded 15% annually.

More importantly for long-term investors, these returns have been delivered during a period of rising interest rates, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions that challenged most traditional investments. The resilience of Balearic property values during challenging global conditions suggests strong fundamental demand that transcends typical economic cycles.

Market Outlook: structural strengths support continued growth

The expanding premium over Spanish national prices—from 45% to 68% in just three years—indicates that the Balearics are increasingly viewed as a distinct market rather than expensive Spanish real estate. This differentiation, combined with limited supply growth and expanding international demand from remote workers, retirees, and investors, creates structural support for continued outperformance.

The normalization of transaction volumes at elevated price levels suggests the market has reached a mature equilibrium where serious buyers recognize current pricing as fair value rather than speculative excess. For property buyers considering 2025 purchases, this combination of proven performance, structural scarcity, and international demand validation creates compelling investment fundamentals that extend well beyond traditional real estate cycles.

The Balearic Islands have established themselves not only as premium Spanish destinations but also as European lifestyle assets where a limited supply meets an unlimited international appeal. This combination continues to deliver exceptional returns for informed property buyers. Remote working and quality of life could have helped the beautiful islands, as we wrote in our article: Spain is one of the best countries in the world for remote work.

Foreigners are very active in the region:

“British, Germans, Dutch and French are the biggest buyers”.

Chart with the real estate price evolution for the Balearic Islands since 1995

Real Estate prices in Mallorca are 68% higher than the national average and have returned to their highest prices since 2007. Activity is vigorous, nearly back to the pre-COVID period.

Current Market Pricing by Island

Foreigners remain exceptionally active across all islands, with British, German, Dutch, and French buyers continuing as the dominant international purchasers. The current pricing levels reflect not only recovery from previous challenges but also a genuine market transformation driven by fundamental changes in how international buyers value lifestyle assets.

• • Formentera leads the ultra-premium market, with prices above €9,000 per square meter, making it Spain’s most expensive municipality. This extraordinary pricing reflects the island’s unique combination of pristine natural beauty, minimal developable land, and growing recognition among ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking the ultimate exclusive retreat.

• • Ibiza maintains its position as the established ultra-premium market, with significant variation reflecting different luxury market segments. The three most expensive municipalities remain Sant Josep de sa Talaia and Santa Eulalia des Riu, both above €4,000/m², and Ibiza town above €3,500/m², demonstrating the island’s ability to serve both ultra-luxury buyers and those seeking entry into the Ibiza market at more accessible price points.

• • Mallorca exhibits sophisticated diversity within its premium territory, with the most exclusive areas of Calvià, particularly Portals Nous-Bendinat, reaching €8,500 per square meter. Meanwhile, Palma‘s remarkable growth, surpassing €5,000 per square meter, reflects the capital’s evolution into a sophisticated urban market that rivals major European cities.

• • Menorca remains the most accessible entry point into Balearic property ownership, while also fully participating in the overall market appreciation. The island’s UNESCO protection and deliberate development restrictions create long-term scarcity value that supports sustained appreciation potential.

Getting Started: Your Path to Balearic Property Ownership

The opportunity to own property in the Balearic Islands represents more than a real estate transaction—it’s a gateway to a lifestyle that combines Mediterranean tranquility with modern conveniences, financial returns with personal fulfillment, and international sophistication with authentic local culture.

The market data, lifestyle benefits, and investment performance all point to the same conclusion: the Balearic Islands have evolved from seasonal destinations to year-round lifestyle choices for discerning international buyers. Whether your goal is creating family memories in a holiday home, building wealth through strategic investment, enjoying a healthy and fulfilling retirement, or establishing a base for location-independent work, these islands offer proven opportunities for achieving your objectives.

The key to success lies in understanding that each island serves different needs and preferences. The diversity within the archipelago means that buyers can find their perfect match while participating in one of Europe’s strongest property markets. From Formentera’s ultra-exclusive retreats to Menorca’s value opportunities, from Ibiza’s dynamic luxury market to Mallorca’s sophisticated diversity, the Balearic Islands offer something exceptional for every serious property buyer.

With our team of over 100 local real estate partners, HowtobuyinSpain helps foreigners navigate this remarkable market with confidence. Our local experts are active in all the fields you need to find your Spanish dream property, ensuring that your journey to Balearic property ownership is as rewarding as the destination itself.

The Mediterranean lifestyle you’ve imagined is not just possible—it’s proven, profitable, and waiting for you to discover it in the Balearic Islands.

For expert guidance on finding your perfect property in the Balearic Islands, connect with our network of vetted local professionals who understand both the market dynamics and the lifestyle dreams that bring international buyers to these exceptional islands. Françoise, Sofia, Luca, and Jeremy are our local property hunters in the Balearic Islands, ready to assist you with your property search. They will make it happen for you!

Check the Ibiza property Market and the Balearic Islands property market in our quarterly report dedicated to the analysis of the Spanish real estate market.

Discover the best new build projects in the Balearic Islands available right now.

Read our earlier article on Palma de Mallorca if you want to learn more: Mallorca, a paradise in the middle of the Mediterranean

Are you looking for a local partner, such as a lawyer or property hunter, on the Costa del Sol? Don’t look further, check our team and ask us for the correct contact.

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Balearic Islands map – details

Here are all the main items you’ll find in our Balearic Islands infographic.

• Airport: Ibiza, Menorca, Palma de Mallorca
• Ave stations: –
• Cities: Manacor (40,300 inhabitants), Inca (25,900 inhabitants), Pollensa (16,200 inhabitants), Alcúdia (19,300 inhabitants), Ibiza (132,600 inhabitants), Ciutadella de Menorca (28,600 inhabitants), Mahón (28,100 inhabitants), Palma de Mallorca (402,900 inhabitants),
• UNESCO sites: None. Find all the UNESCO Sites in Spain on our page: “10 reasons why you should buy in Spain”
• Top beaches: Balnearion de San Juan, Plage de Ses Illetes (Formentera), Cala Comte (Ibiza), Playa de Muro Beach (Playa de Muro), Cala Pregonda (Minorque), Cala Macarelleta (Minorque), Port de Pollença Beach (Port de Pollença), Playa de Alcudia (Port d’Alcudia), Playa de Son Bou (Alaior), Playa de Llevant (Formentera), Cala Turqueta (Ciudadela), Cala Mitjana (Cala Galdana), Playa de Migjorn (Migjorn), Cala Saladeta (Sant Antoni de Portmany), Cala Millor Beach (Cala Millor)
• Kids Parks: “Western Water Park (Magaluf), Forestal Park Mallorca (Palma de Mallorca), Aqua Center (Cala’n Blanes) Katmandu Park (Magaluf), Jungle Parc (Santa Ponsa), Marineland Majorca (Calviá), Hidropark (Port d’Alcudia), Wave House (Magaluf), Aqualand El Arenal (El Arenal), Katmandu Park (Magaluf) .
• Shopping Malls & Outlets: Centre Comercial S’Escorxador, Centro Comercial Porto Pi, Fan Mallorca Shopping (Palma de Mallorca)
• Traditional & Flea markets: Binissalem (Mallorca), Las Dalias (Ibiza), Ciutadella (Menorca), Palma de Mallorca (Mallorca), Calviá (Mallorca), ahón (Menorca), Ferreries (Menorca)
• Top golf courses: Son Gual Alcanada, Son Muntaner, Son Vida Maioris, Vall d’Or Puntiro Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
• Natural Parks: Cabrera Archipelago Parc Natural de Mondrago (Cala d’Or), Lithica (Ciutadella), Parque natural s’Albufera de Mallorca (Can Picafort), Artestruz Mallorca (Campos), Parc Nacional de Cabrera (Colonia de Sant Jordi), La Gola (Port de Pollenca), Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant, Parc Natural Ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera, Mondragó Natural Park, Sa Dragonera Natural Park, Archipiélago de Cabrera National Park
• University: Universitat de les Illes Balears (Palma de Mallorca)
• Hospitals: Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Hospital Son Llàtzer (Palma de Mallorca)

Read further on the Balearic Islands and Spain

1. TOURIST OFFICES:
   • Palma de Mallorca
   • Ibiza
2. AIRPORTS: All the Spanish Airports and flights info on the official site of AENA
3. TRAINS: Renfe website
4. BEACHES: Where will you find the top beaches in Spain?
5. GOLFS: Reread our Summer paper on the subject What are the top golf courses in Spain? Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner. Check the Spanish Federation here: Looking for a Golf Club in Spain?
6. KIDS PARKS: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
7. MUST VISIT IN SPAIN: Our top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, Find all the Unesco sites in Spain

Find all our other articles and downloadable maps on the Spanish Costas:

With our team of over 100 local real estate partners, HowtobuyinSpain helps foreigners buy real estate in Spain.

Our local experts from our network are active in all the fields you need to find your Spanish dream property:

1. Property finders
2. B&B
3. Lawyers
4. Tax
5. Architects
6. Money Transfer
7. Mortgage
8. Holiday rental management
9. Ensure your Spanish property
10. Property survey
11. Renovation

Looking for an expert in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane

Senior Analyst and Strategist at HTBIS

Check the full team at HTBIS here

The post Discover the Balearic Islands appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

The ultimate Barcelona 2024 America’s Cup guide

1. What is the America’s Cup?

   The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sailing race, often referred to as the “Formula 1 of sailing.” First held in 1851, it is a high-stakes competition where the best sailors and most technologically advanced yachts worldwide compete to win the coveted trophy. It takes place every 3 to 5 years. Between two competitions, teams invest massively in training and Research & Development to develop new more efficient yachts.

   The 37th America’s Cup, or AC37 in short, is set to take place in Barcelona from the 22nd of August to October 2024. It will feature a strong lineup of 5 contenders aiming to challenge the defending champion: Emirates Team New Zealand which already has its seat for the final.

2. Discover all you need to know on the America’s Cup in Barcelona, our 2 minutes video

   Would you like to watch this video in your own language? Click at the bottom right of the video on “cc” to get subtitles in your language.
   

    

3. Why is the America’s Cup so appealing worldwide?

    

   Cutting-Edge Technology

   The America’s Cup showcases the latest developments in yacht design and technology. The boats used, like the AC75 and AC40, are marvels of engineering, capable of “flying” above the water at incredible speeds. Watching these high-performance yachts is thrilling, similar to watching advanced racing cars in action.

   Intense Competition

   The America’s Cup is not just about speed; it’s about strategy, skill, and teamwork. The races are closely fought, and the stakes are high. Each team, backed by significant financial and technological resources, fights for national pride and glory. Of course, as many races are held during 2 months, the suspense is increasing at every round of the competition.

   Rich History and Prestige

   Winning the America’s Cup is a significant achievement in the sailing world. It has a rich history of intense rivalries, especially between the United States and challengers from other countries. This historical significance adds to the event’s allure and prestige.

   

   NAPLES – APRIL 20: the catamaran of team races during the america’s cup world series competition on April 20, 2013 in Naples

    

   Global Spectacle

   The America’s Cup is a global event that attracts attention from all over the world. It is held in beautiful coastal cities, providing stunning backdrops for the races. This makes it not only a sporting event but also a visual spectacle.

   Community and Culture

   The America’s Cup brings together communities and cultures. Host cities like Barcelona transform into vibrant hubs of activity, offering numerous events, exhibitions, and social gatherings. It’s a celebration that goes beyond the races, providing something for everyone.

   Innovation and Sustainability

   The America’s Cup pushes the boundaries of innovation, not just in yacht design but also in promoting sustainable practices. This aligns with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility, making the event relevant and forward-thinking. In essence, the America’s Cup is appealing because it combines advanced technology, intense competition, a rich history, and a sense of global community. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or someone who enjoys thrilling sports and spectacular events, the America’s Cup has something exciting to offer.

   

   NAPLES – APRIL 20: the catamaran of team races during the america’s cup world series competition on April 20, 2013 in Naples

    

4. History of the America’s Cup up to nowadays

   The America’s Cup, established in 1851, is the oldest international sporting trophy. Initially known as the “R.Y.S. £100 Cup,” it was awarded by the Royal Yacht Squadron for a race around the Isle of Wight. The winning yacht, “America,” led to the trophy being renamed the America’s Cup​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​. For many years, the competition was primarily between the United States and other challengers from around the world, who sent yachts to represent their countries. The New York Yacht Club (NYYC) dominated the competition, successfully defending the cup from 1870 to 1980, establishing the longest winning streak in sports history: 25 victories​ (Wikipedia)​​​.

   The new competition format launched in 1983

   In 1970, the format began to evolve. Before this, the defender (usually the NYYC) could choose its yacht on the morning of each race, which provided a significant advantage. This practice was challenged and led to changes aimed at greater fairness. The 1983 America’s Cup was a pivotal moment when Australia II, with its innovative winged keel, won the Challenger Series and defeated the defending NYYC’s yacht. This victory ended the NYYC’s 132-year winning streak and led to significant changes in the competition format​ (37th America’s Cup)​​ (Wikipedia)​. The current format, established post-1983, has the defending champion automatically qualifying for the final match, where they compete against the winner of the Challenger Selection Series. This structure ensured a more competitive environment and removed the previous “green card” advantage that allowed the American defender to always be in the final race without preliminary competition​ (37th America’s Cup)​​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​. For more detailed information on the history and evolution of the America’s Cup, you can explore resources such as the America’s Cup official website, Britannica, and Wikipedia.   In 2024, the Louis Vuitton Cup (Challenger Selections Series) will determine which team will face the defender Emirates Team New Zealand.

   The America’s Cup: a question of Honour and the role of major patrons

   Prestige and Honour

   The America’s Cup is not just a sporting event; it is a competition steeped in prestige and honour. Winning the America’s Cup is a significant achievement in the sailing world, symbolizing technological superiority, strategic acumen, and exceptional sailing skills. Historically, it has been a matter of national pride, with countries investing heavily to bring the cup home. The intense rivalry, especially between the US and other nations, has made it a prestigious prize that transcends mere competition, embodying national pride and maritime excellence.

   Financial Demands and Major Patrons

   Competing in the America’s Cup requires substantial financial investment, often necessitating the support of wealthy patrons or corporate sponsors. The development, construction, and maintenance of high-performance yachts like the AC75 and AC40 involve cutting-edge technology and significant research and development (R&D) costs. Here’s why big patrons are essential: high costs of R&D and Innovation, operational and logistical expenses and marketing and promotional activities.

   

   NAPLES – APRIL 13: the catamaran of team races during the america’s cup world series competition on April 13, 2013 in Naples

   Who are the winners of the latest editions of the America’s Cup?

   The winners of the last five America’s Cup editions are as follows:

   • 2021: Emirates Team New Zealand (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) defeated Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli (Circolo della Vela Sicilia) with a score of 7-3. The event took place in Auckland, New Zealand.
   • 2017: Emirates Team New Zealand (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) triumphed over Oracle Team USA (Golden Gate Yacht Club) with a score of 7-1. The event was held in Bermuda.
   • 2013: Oracle Team USA (Golden Gate Yacht Club) narrowly defeated Emirates Team New Zealand (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) with a score of 9-8. The event took place in San Francisco, USA.
   • 2010: Oracle Team USA (Golden Gate Yacht Club) defeated Alinghi (Société Nautique de Genève) with a score of 2-0. The event was held in Valencia, Spain.
   • 2007: Alinghi (Société Nautique de Genève) won against Emirates Team New Zealand (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) with a score of 5-2. This event also took place in Valencia, Spain.

   
   These victories highlight the competitive nature and evolving technology in the prestigious sailing competition, with New Zealand and the USA being prominent contenders in recent years.

    

5. How did Barcelona win the organisation of the AC37?

    

   Barcelona’s sailing legacy and the America’s Cup

   Barcelona, renowned for its maritime heritage and coastal allure, has hosted numerous significant maritime events, enhancing its global reputation in the maritime community. Notable events include the sailing competitions of the 1992 Summer Olympics, the Barcelona World Race, and various editions of the Salón Náutico Internacional de Barcelona. Additionally, the city has served as a key stopover in the Volvo Ocean Race and has hosted pre-regattas for the America’s Cup. These events, among others, underscore Barcelona’s pivotal role in international maritime activities. Barcelona has many marinas in the city, the biggest and most well-known is the Marina Port Vell and of course, it has a yachting club, the Royal Nautic Club. Last but not least, the Barcelona sailing school was launched in 1992 after the Olympic Games.

    

   

   Discover the best map on the Costa de Barcelona

   Overview of Barcelona’s history as a host city for major maritime events

   • 1992 Summer Olympics (Sailing Competitions): July 25 – August 9, 1992
   • America’s Cup Pre-Regattas: Various years
   • Barcelona World Race: Inaugurated in 2007 and held biennially
   • Salón Náutico Internacional de Barcelona (Barcelona International Boat Show): Held annually since 1963, typically in October
   • Tall Ships Races: Hosted in 1992, 2004, 2007, 2013
   • Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta: 2013
   • The Volvo Ocean Race (Stopover): June 12-18, 2014
   • European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO) Conference: May 28-30, 2008
   • Barcelona International Sailing Center Events: Ongoing since its establishment in 2013

    

   

   The Municipal Sailing Centre is in Barcelona Port Olympic, next to the beach. The sailing school offers various courses – sailing, catamaran, windsurfing, etc.

   How did Barcelona win the bid to organize the America’s Cup?

   Barcelona was chosen to host the “Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Barcelona” in 2024: marking the first time a New Zealand team has defended the Cup outside their home waters. The decision was made after the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and Emirates Team New Zealand evaluated several potential venues, including Cork (Ireland), Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), and Malaga (Spain), but ultimately selected Barcelona for its robust infrastructure and support from local authorities​ (37th America’s Cup)​​ according to Wikipedia​.

   Key Steps in Barcelona’s Winning Bid:

   • Candidacy Submission: The process began in late 2021, with Barcelona officially announced as the host on March 29, 2022.
   • The bid was supported by a coalition of public and private entities, including the Government of Catalonia, Barcelona City Council, and various local businesses and investment agencies.
   • Evaluation Criteria: Factors considered included the city’s maritime infrastructure, historical significance, and the ability to meet the logistical and technical requirements of the event.
   • Technical and Logistical Requirements: The event requires extensive infrastructure, including bases for the teams, spectator areas, and support facilities. The AC75 and AC40 class boats will be used, with specific requirements for foiling monohull yachts.

    

   

   Barcelona offers a plethora of experiences, from shopping on Passeig de Gracia and marvelling at the architectural wonder of the Sagrada Familia to exploring the unique works of Gaudí and savouring delicious Catalan cuisine.

    

6. Our best advice to attend America’s Cup Barcelona 2024 & quick facts

    

   Where is the America’s Cup organized?

   The cup is organized in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. More precisely, the infrastructure for the yachts and the teams will be in “Port Vell”, in Barceloneta.

   When is the America’s Cup 2024 organized?

   The cup is organized between the 22nd of August for the first 4 races to October 2024 Here are the schedule and key dates for the 2024 America’s Cup races.

   Who’s racing in the AC37?

   The defending champion is Emirates Team New Zealand, they will access directly to the final and five contenders will fight for the second place available in the final: INEOS Britannia, Alinghi Red Bull Racing, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, NYYC American Magic and Orient Express Racing Team. Check our dedicated section for more on that lower.

   How can I buy Tickets for the America’s cup?

   Details on where and how to purchase tickets for the America’s Cup events, as well as information on booking tours to enhance the experience. Visit the official ticket page for more information.

   The organisation team of the America’s Cup will have other events for the public like interactive displays, high-tech simulators and various educational exhibits.

   

   Aerial view of Barcelona city towards the sea, featuring notable landmarks such as Hotel Arts, Torre Agbar, and the area where the marina and the nautical school are located. This setting perfectly captures the environment for the upcoming America’s Cup Barcelona.

    

   How to watch the America’s Cup if I stay in Barcelona?

   If you will be in Barcelona, there are three options:

   From your hotel

   The best hotels to watch the sea in Barcelona are without doubts:

   • Hotel Arts
   • Hotel W
   

   Discover why Barcelona the perfect 15 minute city. Hotel W and Beach Barceloneta in Barcelona

   From land

   The best locations to watch the races from include the Race Village and other prime spots around Barcelona. Not sure you will have full visibility from those spots on the land but of course, here are some strong ideas:

   • Barceloneta and high buildings in Barceloneta like Hotel Arts or Hotel W,
   • Azul Rooftop restaurant of Romain Fornell in Barceloneta, a few meters from Hotel W,
   • Who knows with some binoculars from the Montjuic parc,
   • a little further inland but why not try the Guinardo parc.

    

   From sea

   

   All the best spots to attend the America’s Cup in Barcelona: from the best hotels to the best spots on land and of course at sea.

   Rent a sailing boat to admire where the action is. List of recommended websites, apps, and other resources for real-time updates and analyses of the America’s Cup events.

   How can you follow the America’s Cup from anywhere in the world?

   For live streaming, visit America’s Cup Live. Don’t miss those interesting sites to follow results and comments on the America’s Cup:

   • America’s Cup Official Website: The official site for the America’s Cup provides the latest news, race schedules, team information, and detailed reports on the races. It’s an excellent resource for official announcements and updates directly from the organizers.
   • Yachting World America’s Cup Section: Detailed articles, news updates, and expert analysis on the America’s Cup.
   • Sail-World America’s Cup News: Extensive coverage including news, team updates, and technical insights.
   • Scuttlebutt Sailing News America’s Cup: Latest news, event schedules, and commentary on the America’s Cup.
   • BBC Sport Sailing: News, features, and updates on major sailing events, including the America’s Cup.
   • Scuttlebutt Sailing News: This site offers extensive coverage of the America’s Cup and general sailing news, including updates, detailed race reports, and insightful articles.
   • Sky Sports Sailing: Sky Sports also features articles and updates on the America’s Cup, including team announcements, race results, and expert analyses.
   • CupInfo.com: This site offers in-depth coverage and historical insights into the America’s Cup, including details about the Prada Cup and Louis Vuitton Cup. It’s a valuable resource for understanding the technological advancements and strategic elements of the competition.
   • Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting: This publication provides a mix of current sailing news, including America’s Cup updates, as well as practical sailing advice and boat reviews.

    

   Recommendations for must-see attractions and activities in Barcelona to enjoy while attending the America’s Cup.

   • Explore top attractions in Barcelona from Lonely Planet.
   • Have a look at the official tourist office desk of Barcelona.
   • Last but not least, here is the official agenda of exhibitions for Barcelona in 2024.

    

   

   5 must see monuments in Barcelona: Palau Musica, Casa Batllo, Montjuic Hill, Casa Mila, Mercat del Born,…

7. Participating Teams, yachts and Racing formats

    

   Participating Teams and Sailors

   The 37th America’s Cup, set to take place in Barcelona in 2024, features a strong lineup of contenders aiming to challenge the defending champions, Emirates Team New Zealand. The teams competing are:

   1. Emirates Team New Zealand (Defender) – Representing the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
   2. INEOS Britannia – Representing the Royal Yacht Squadron, this British team is the Challenger of Record and is responsible for organizing the Louis Vuitton Cup.
   3. Alinghi Red Bull Racing – Representing the Société Nautique de Genève from Switzerland, this team is known for its innovative approaches and competitive spirit.
   4. Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli – Representing the Circolo della Vela Sicilia from Italy, this team has a strong history in America’s Cup competitions.
   5. NYYC American Magic – Representing the New York Yacht Club from the USA, this team brings a blend of tradition and modern sailing excellence.
   6. Orient Express Racing Team – Representing the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez from France, this new team aims to make a significant impact with advanced technology and a strong sailing squad.
   

   Here are the teams taking part in the America’s Cup in Barcelona

   These teams will compete in the Challenger Selection Series, known as the Louis Vuitton Cup, which will determine who will face Emirates Team New Zealand in the final America’s Cup Match. The event promises intense competition with teams utilizing the latest AC75 foiling monohull yachts, which are known for their speed and advanced design. Don’t miss the interesting article Discovering the 37th America’s Cup teams detailing insights into teams and preparations written by Leigh Rose in Yachtingnews.com   Sailingworld.com has an interesting blog section with newsflow on the America’s Cup as well here.

   The High-Performance AC75 and AC40 Yachts for America’s Cup 2024

   All teams will sail with both yachts.

   AC75 Yachts

   The AC75 is a state-of-the-art foiling monohull yacht designed specifically for the America’s Cup. These yachts are equipped with advanced technology to enhance their performance:

   • Foiling Technology: According to the America’s Cup website, AC75 yachts utilize twin canting T-foils which lift the boat above the water, drastically reducing drag and enabling speeds of up to 50 knots (approximately 93 km/h). The larger foils provide quicker lift and more stable flight.
   • Design and Crew: The famous website Yachting World explains that the updated Version 2 of the AC75 Class Rule includes larger foils, lighter weight, and upgraded onboard electronics and software systems. The crew size has been reduced from 11 to 8, allowing for the return of cycle power for certain operations.
   • Performance: These yachts are designed to be fast and agile as Sailweb details, making use of a double-skin mainsail that forms a wing with the D-shaped mast, creating the necessary power for foiling. They are expected to reach impressive speeds, even in relatively light winds.
     

     Great Bay, St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles-June 22, 2013: Former America’s Cup yacht, Canada 2, picks up wind and gives the tourists and crew a thrilling cruise off the coast.

   AC40 Yachts

   The AC40 is a smaller, versatile version of the AC75, used for various purposes including training and competition in the America’s Cup World Series, Youth America’s Cup, and the Women’s America’s Cup:

   • Sustainability and Design: The AC40 is one of the first America’s Cup yachts to feature a hybrid electric motor according to Sailing World, highlighting a commitment to sustainability. These boats are built by McConaghy in China, with key components provided by Emirates Team New Zealand.
   • Versatility: America’s Cup explains that the AC40 serves multiple roles, including as a test platform for teams to develop and trial new concepts before applying them to the AC75. For competitive events, they are returned to a strict one-design configuration to ensure fair competition.
   • Performance: Yachting World confirms the impressive speed the yachts can reach: the AC40 can achieve high speeds, with capabilities reaching up to 30 knots upwind and over 40 knots downwind. They are designed to perform well in a variety of wind conditions, making them ideal for training and competition.

    

   

   NAPLES – APRIL 13: the catamaran of team races during the america’s cup world series competition on April 13, 2013 in Naples

   The Racing Format

   Explanation of the race structure, including preliminary regattas between challengers, Challenger Selection Series, and the final match The top four teams will race in a first-to-five-points Semi-Final, with the two winners advancing to the Final Match Race. The winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup, the team to first score seven points, will face Emirates Team New Zealand, the Defender of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup.

8. How is Barcelona preparing itself for the America’s Cup?

    

   Barcelona’s Sailing Scene: Clubs, Harbours, and More

   Real Club Náutico de Barcelona and the harbour of Barcelona “Port Vell” are at the centre of the organisation of the America’s Cup in Barcelona. Many initiatives have been taken to welcome the America’s Cup.

   Transformation of the Port Vell in Barcelona to welcome the America’s Cup

   According to the website of the port of Barcelona, a big remodelling of the port will take place at the sailing port of Barcelona. Up to 20 actions have been launched in Port Vell worth 120 M€. Unlike other editions, no new infrastructures are being built: the existing ones are being modernized and transformed.:

   

   Up to 20 actions have been launched in Port Vell worth 120 M€. Unlike other editions, no new infrastructures are being built: the existing ones are being modernized and transformed. Image source: Port de Barcelona

   The America’s Cup impulse to transform Port Vell

   1. Rehabilitation of the Nova Bocana seawall
   2. Construction of the “Trencaones” promenade
   3. New Mirador building
   4. Adequacy of the Barcelona Nàutic Center’s spaces
   5. Nautical bus service
   6. Urbanization of the esplanades “Nova bocana”
   7. Restoration “tinglados” Moll Oriental
   8. Sant Sebastià breakwater
   9. Reform of Spaces Club Natació Barcelona
   10. New spaces for the Nautical Institute
   11. Remodelling of the fishing area – Llotja
   12. America’s Cup Experience – former IMAX
   13. Cinesa demolition
   14. Maremagnum remodeling
   15. Reform of the Aquarium
   16. Rehabilitation of Portal de la Pau
   17. Urbanization of the Drassanes Wharf
   18. Transfer of operations from Barcelona Nord to Adossat
   19. Renovation of the tower of Jaume I
   20. Remodeling of World Trade Center Barcelona

    

   

   Picture of the Nova Bocana seawall before rehabilitation, Barceloneta, Barcelona

   Community engagement and volunteer programs for the America’s Cup

   The America’s Cup emphasizes community engagement and volunteerism to ensure event success and enhance its impact on the host city. The AC37 Volunteer Programme aims to recruit 2,300 volunteers from diverse backgrounds, known as “Team B,” who will take on roles ranging from supporting the America’s Cup Trophy tour to promoting sustainability as “Green Angels”.

   Volunteers must commit to specific shifts and undergo thorough training to effectively manage responsibilities such as spectator zones and media operations. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-prepared volunteer force.

   These programs enhance community engagement and event success by fostering local pride and offering skill development opportunities. Effective volunteer management, focusing on recruitment and retention, is crucial for seamless event execution.

   Other initiatives like engagement with schools and educational programs are expected and impact youth, including programs to introduce young people to sailing and marine sciences

    

   Environmental and Sustainability Efforts

   Different measures are taken to ensure an eco-friendly America’s Cup and efforts to promote environmental awareness through the competition

   Diverse initiatives are aimed at raising environmental awareness among participants and spectators of the America’s Cup.

   Other long-term structural city changes you will notice in Barcelona

   Barcelona is making significant strides in urban development with several key projects aimed at enhancing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. Here are the major initiatives:

   1. La Rambla renovation: Barcelona is undertaking a major renovation of La Rambla, one of its most famous streets, to make it more pedestrian-friendly and culturally vibrant. The plan includes widening sidewalks, increasing green spaces, and enhancing accessibility to create a more inviting environment for both residents and tourists.
   2. Green initiatives in the Eixample district: Barcelona is transforming the Eixample district through the Superblock plan, which aims to convert one-third of the district’s streets into pedestrian-friendly green spaces. This project involves the creation of green hubs and large public squares, reducing car lanes, and increasing areas for walking, cycling, and leisure. By 2030, the initiative aims to add 33 kilometers of pedestrian-friendly roads and 6.6 hectares of new urban green areas, significantly improving air quality and public spaces in the district​ (Dezeen)​​ (World Economic Forum)​​ (Ara)​.
   3. 22@ Innovation district: The 22@ project in the Poblenou area continues to evolve, transforming 200 hectares of former industrial land into a hub for technology and innovation. The district integrates residential, office, and recreational spaces, promoting a mixed-use urban fabric that balances economic activities with sustainable living. The focus is on enhancing inclusivity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting diverse economic activities​ (Barcelona City Hub)​​ (Web de Barcelona)​​ (Barcelona Catalonia)​.
   4. Poblenou district renovation: Part of the broader 22@ initiative, the Poblenou renovation aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable neighborhood. The project focuses on creating a mixed-use urban fabric that supports a diverse range of economic activities, improves environmental quality, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents. This includes the development of new public spaces and green areas to foster community interactions and local commerce​ (Barcelona City Hub)​​ (Barcelona City Hub)​.
   5. Camp Nou renovation: The renovation of Spotify Camp Nou is progressing well, with the goal of reopening by the end of 2024. Significant milestones have been achieved, including the installation of pillars and beams for the third tier and the refurbishment of the first and second stands. The renovation will increase the stadium’s capacity to approximately 105,000 spectators and incorporate advanced technological features for improved fan experience. Key updates include the construction of a new parking lot, a future store, and a cafeteria near the Grandstand area​ (Official FC Barcelona Website)​​ (Mundo Deportivo)​​ (Mundo Deportivo)​. The project aims to balance modern facilities with environmental sustainability, ultimately enhancing both the stadium’s functionality and its integration with the city.
   

   Barcelona’s preparations for America’s Cup 2024, including infrastructure enhancements, top-notch facilities, and public spaces, while listing other city developments.

    

9. What positive long-term impact will the America’s Cup have on Barcelona?

    

   Will it be as big as the one for the Olympic Games organized in 1992?

   Yes, for sure. There was a before and after moment for Barcelona when we talked about the organization of the Olympic Games in 1992. The event, officially known as the Games of the XXV Olympiad, took place from July 25 to August 9, 1992. This was a significant event for Barcelona and Spain, marking the first time the country hosted the Summer Olympics. The games were notable for their organization, the introduction of professional athletes in basketball, and memorable moments such as the performance of the “Dream Team” in basketball.

   Infrastructure development for the 1992 Olympic Games on Barcelona

   1. Beaches and Waterfront Development
      Before the Olympics, Barcelona had little accessible beachfront. The Games led to the creation of 3 kilometers of new beaches by importing sand and redeveloping the coastline. This transformation reconnected the city with the Mediterranean, creating vibrant leisure areas that are now iconic to Barcelona. The construction of the Passeig Marítim promenade further enhanced the city’s appeal, making it a major attraction for both locals and tourists.
   2. Olympic Village (Vila Olímpica)
      The development of the Olympic Village was crucial in transforming the Poblenou district. This area, once filled with industrial warehouses and factories, was rejuvenated into a modern, trendy neighborhood. The removal of the coastal railway and the creation of the Olympic Port turned previously neglected areas into bustling hubs of activity, with marinas, shops, and restaurants.
   3. Montjuïc Area Development
      Montjuïc was significantly upgraded with the refurbishment of the Olympic Stadium and the construction of new sports facilities like Palau Sant Jordi. This area became a central hub for the Games and continues to be a key location for sporting and cultural events in Barcelona. The Olympic Park on Montjuïc is now a major tourist attraction, featuring the Magic Fountain, which was restored for the Games.

   These developments illustrate the profound impact the 1992 Olympics had on Barcelona, transforming it into a modern, vibrant city with enhanced infrastructure and a strong global presence. The city’s ability to successfully host the America’s Cup in 2024 will likely continue this legacy of leveraging major events for urban and economic revitalization.

   A chart is better than a thousand words: watch this chart of yearly tourism to Barcelona between 1992, with 1 million tourists, to now, with 10 million tourists per year… Yes, same city 🙂

   A line graph titled “Number of tourists visiting Barcelona per year” shows a steady increase from 1993 to 2023, peaking at approximately 10 million visitors in 2023, coinciding with the excitement surrounding America’s Cup Races. By the way, every time we can, we love to swim in the Olympic pool at Montjuïc Park.

   
   By the way, every time we can, we love to swim in the Olympic pool at the Montjuic Park.

   

   Outdoor swimming pool with people swimming and lounging around, situated in a spacious area with a view of the cityscape in the background. Tall stadium lights are positioned around the pool, and you can almost imagine the excitement of America’s Cup Barcelona 2024 unfolding nearby.

   Will it be the same after organising the America’s Cup in Barcelona?

   Tourism and Economic Impact on Barcelona

   Of course, everybody expects economic benefits and tourism boost from hosting the America’s Cup in the short term.

   Long term, the America’s Cup stands as the third largest television event globally, surpassed only by the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup. The competition is anticipated to attract a television audience of approximately 1.2 billion viewers. Additionally, live-streaming audiences may exceed 10 million, supplemented by viewership on various social media platforms. Preliminary tests have shown that hundreds of millions of users are likely to follow the competition through these channels, further amplifying the event’s global reach and impact. Source

   The America’s Cup will have profound long-term impacts on Barcelona’s tourism sector. This influx of visitors and international attention is poised to boost the local economy, create jobs, and stimulate investments in the tourism sector.

   Maritime infrastructure and continued community engagement post-America’s Cup

   

   The impact of the 1992 Olympic Games on Barcelona was huge, from developments in beaches, Olympic Village, and Montjuïc area…

   Hosting the America’s Cup is set to leave a substantial legacy for Barcelona, driving several infrastructural and urban development initiatives. The city aims to utilize the event to accelerate the modernization of maritime and urban infrastructure, benefiting both residents and visitors. These projects include upgrading port facilities, enhancing transportation networks, and developing new public spaces that integrate with Barcelona’s historic landscape. Such enhancements are poised to support increased tourism, stimulate local businesses, and improve overall quality of life for residents.

   Additionally, the event fosters community engagement through educational programs, sailing initiatives, and environmental projects promoting sustainable practices, ensuring the local community remains actively involved and benefits from the event’s legacy.

   Enhancing Barcelona’s global maritime profile

   

   A few funny facts about the Olympic games and the America’s cup in Barcelona

   Hosting the America’s Cup elevates Barcelona’s profile in the global maritime community, enhancing its visibility and prestige as a premier destination for international sailing events. This enhanced reputation is expected to attract future maritime and sporting events, boost tourism, and establish Barcelona as a hub for nautical innovation and excellence. The America’s Cup positions Barcelona alongside other iconic maritime cities, fostering partnerships and collaborations that can lead to further economic and cultural opportunities, attracting investment, driving economic growth, and reinforcing Barcelona’s status as a leading global city.

10. How could you, yourself, enjoy the vibrant city of Barcelona as we do?

     

    Barcelona’s real estate market offers an attractive investment opportunity for foreigners, thanks to its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast. The city’s diverse neighbourhoods cater to various tastes, from the historic charm of the Gothic Quarter to the modern allure of Eixample. Foreign buyers are drawn to Barcelona for its lifestyle, excellent infrastructure, and strong rental market, making it a profitable venture for both short-term and long-term investments.

    

    Foreigners can choose to buy properties either for themselves, enjoying the exceptional quality of life Barcelona offers, or for renting it out for a nice yield, capitalizing on the city’s strong demand for rental properties. Additionally, this approach provides the potential for upside in property values over the long term.We have many experts: property hunters, lawyers, mortgage advisors and tax advisors ready to assist you in buying a property in Barcelona. Depending on location, the current state and the property itself, you should pay between €3,000 and €5,000 per square meter.

    Have a quick look at some other deals we did for our customers:

    

    Barcelona property investment: a Case study

    

    An apartment in Barcelona got a quick refresh for €15,000

    

    Costa Brava property investment: A sea-view apartment with pool in Platja d'Aro

    

    A countryside villa close to Barcelona and Tossa de Mar: Costa Brava property investment

    Don’t miss our interesting reading if you want to compare the potential returns of European cities vs Barcelona: What return will you make on your Spanish property?

    Looking for a local expert in Barcelona, Madrid, Alicante, Malaga, Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona,…? Ask us directly!

    Stéphane Senior analyst and strategist at HTBIS Stéphane, with over 20 years of experience in real estate, finance and entrepreneurship, is the co-founder of www.howtobuyinspain.com. With an extensive network of local partners in Spain, his deep commitment to the real estate sector combined with strong analytical skills and a problem-solving mentality have fueled his success. Constantly eager to learn and passionate about teaching, Stéphane believes in the power of knowledge sharing to master any subject. Check the full HTBIS team here

     

America’s Cup Barcelona FAQ

The post America’s cup Barcelona appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Spain has about 8,000 kilometres of coastline and 3,000 listed beaches, only Italy has a longer coastline in Europe! It’s not a surprise: Spain is one of “the” top tourist destination for European with more than 20% of European travellers. For those in search of sun and sand at any time of year,… yes, you found it!

You will find excellent facilities and sandy beaches in all the Spanish Regions. In 2022, 120.000 properties were bought by foreigners! Have a look at our detailed analysis if you want to read more on that: Who are the foreigners buying properties in Spain?

How could you quickly find a nice beach in Spain?

Of course, you have to ask it to the local residents. But we want to help you if you want to plan before getting there! Don’t hesitate to tell us, should you think we missed one! We helped you with four sources:

1.Our top beaches sorted per Spanish Costas

We have created Infographics for the main Spanish Costas. You will find on those everything you should know on the Spanish Costas: Airports, AVE stations, Cities, Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets, Shopping malls, Unesco sites, kids parks, Natural parks, Golf courses, Universities and of course the top beaches.

All our infographics on the Spanish costas

2.The Blue Flag rating: 579 beaches in Spain

3.The Q rating: 248 beaches in Spain

4.The Top 10 Spanish beaches according to the Tourist Bureau

1. Our ranking of the best beaches in Spain sorted by Costas

We have created a series of “Must see activities” for each Spanish Costas and incorporated those in our newly released infographics. Click on any link and you will find a pdf downloadable version of each of those infographics.

The best beaches in the Spanish Islands

The best beaches in the Balearic Islands

• Balnearion de San Juan
• Playa Illetes (Formentera)
• Cala Comte (Ibiza)
• Playa de Muro Beach (Playa de Muro)
• Cala Pregonda (Minorque)
• Cala d’Hort (Ibiza)
• Cala Macarelleta (Minorque)
• Port de Pollença Beach (Port de Pollença)
• Playa de Alcudia (Port d’Alcudia)
• Playa de Son Bou (Alaior)
• Playa de Llevant (Formentera)
• Cala Turqueta (Ciudadela)
• Cala Mitjana (Cala Galdana)
• Playa Aguas Blancas (Ibiza)
• Playa de Migjorn (Migjorn)
• Cala Saladeta (Sant Antoni de Portmany)
• Cala Millor Beach (Cala Millor)

Find everything on the Balearic Islands: its Airports, stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches.

The best beaches in Canary Islands

• Pozo de la Salud (El Hierro)
• Playa de Cofete (Morro del Jable)
• Playa de las Conchas (Isla de Graciosa)
• El Cotillo Beach & Lagoons (El Cotillo)
• Playa de Benijo (Almaciga)
• Sotavento Beach (Costa Calma)
• Playa de Sotavento (Playa de Jandia)
• Playa del Matorral (Pajara)
• Playa de Las Canteras (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria)
• Monumento Natural de Ajuy (Fuerteventura)
• Playa Del Duque (Costa Adeje)
• Playa Dorada Beach (Playa Blanca)
• Piscinas Naturales El Caleton (Garachico)
• Playa El Bollullo (Puerto de la Cruz)
• Playa de las Vistas (Los Cristianos)
• Playa de Maspalomas (Maspalomas)

Know everything on the Canary Islands: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Spanish Costas

The best beaches in the Costa de Almería

• Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla (Almería),
• Monsul Beach (San Jose),
• Playa de los Muertos (Carboneras),
• Serena Beach (Roquetas de Mar),
• Playa de los Genoveses (Cabo de Gata),
• Playa de Aguadulce (Aguadulce),
• Cala de Enmedio (Agua Amarga),
• El Playazo (Rodalquilar),
• Garrucha Beach (Garrucha),
• Playas de Vera (Vera),
• Cala del Plomo (Agua Amarga)

Know everything on the Costa Almeria: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa de Azahar

• Playa Almadrava (Benicàssim),
• Playa Benicarló (Benicarló),
• Balneario Villavieja (Castellón),
• Playa Marina D’Or (Castellón),
• Playa Romana(Castellón),
• Playa Moro (Alcocébre),
• Playa Sant Antoni (Cullera),
• Playa Gandia (Gandia),
• Playa Serradal(Alcocébre),
• Playa Xeraco (Xeraco),
• Playa Peñiscola (Peñíscola),
• Playa Alcossebre (Alcocébre),
• Playa Benicàssim (Benicàssim),
• Playa Vinaros (Vinarós)

Know everything on the Costa Azahar: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Barcelona

• Balneario Titus (Arenys de Mar),
• Balneario Hotel Colón (Caldes d’Estrac),
• Santa Susanna,
• Malgrat de mar (Maresme),
• PREMIÀ DE MAR (Maresme),
• San Bartolomé y santa Tecla,
• Vilassar de mar (Barcelona),
• playa principal de Calella (Calella),
• Roca Grossa (Calella), Barceloneta Beach (Barcelona),
• La Playa de Sitges (Sitges),
• Beach Castelldelfels Barcelona (Castelldefels),
• Playa de Castelldefels (Castelldefels),
• Playa Balmins (Sitges),
• Bogatell Beach (Barcelona),
• Platja de Ribes Roges (Vilanova i la Geltru),
• Badalona Beach (Badalona),
• Passeig Marítim (Sitges),
• Nova Mar Bella Beach (Barcelona),
• Playa de Sant Sebastia (Sitges),
• Ocata Beach (El Masnou),
• Delta del Llobregat (El Prat de Llobregat),
• Playa del Hombre Muerto (Sitges),
• Sausalito Beach (Sitges),
• Platja de la Nova Icaria (Barcelone),
• Platja de Gava (Gava)

Know everything on the Costa de Barcelona: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Blanca

• Poniente Beach (Benidorm),
• Playa de la Fossa o Levante (Calpe),
• Arenal Beach (Javea),
• Las Salinas de Torrevieja (Torrevieja),
• Promenade of Calpe (Calpe),
• Guardamar Moncayo Beach (Guardamar del Segura),
• Cala Finestrat Beach (Finestrat),
• Playa del Albir (El Albir), Playa El Carabassi (Elche),
• Cala del Moraig (Benitachell),
• Playa de Guardamar (Alicante),
• Altea Beach (Altea),
• Playa L’Ampolla (Moraira)

Know everything on the Costa Blanca: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Brava

• Cala Senyor Ramon,
• Platja de s’Agaró,
• Cala Futadera,
• Platja del Castell de Palamos,
• Cala Boadella

Know everything on the Costa Brava: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Calida

• Playa de Calblanque (Cartagena),
• Cala del Pino et Plage Entremares (La Manga),
• Playa Portús (Cartagena),
• Playa Barraca Quemada de La Llana (San Pedro del Pinatar),
• Playa Amarilla (Águilas),
• Playa La Carolina (Águilas),
• Playa de Percheles (Mazarrón),
• Playa Baño de las Señoritas (Lorca),
• Cala Cortina (Cartagena),
• Cala Blanca (Lorca)

Know everything on the Costa Calida: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Daurada

• Balneario de Coma-Ruga (Vendrell)
• Llevant Beach (Salou)
• Llarga Beach (Salou)
• Playa de la Pineda (La Pineda)
• Capellans Beach (Salou)
• Cambrils Beach Platja Prat d’En Fores y Regueral (Cambrils)
• Playa El Torn Naturist Beach (L’Hospitalet de l’Infant)
• Playa El Milagro (Tarragona)
• Playa de Arrabassada (Tarragona)
• Playa La Savinosa (Tarragona)
• Platja de la Llosa (Cambrils)
• Playa Cristal (Miami Platja)

Know everything on the Costa Daurada: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa de la Luz

• Playa de Isla de Canela,
• Playa de Punta Umbria,
• Playa de torre de la Higuera,
• Playa de matalascañas,
• Playa cruz del mar,
• Playa del rompidillo,
• Playa la caleta,
• Playa de la Cortadura,
• Cala de Roche,
• Playa de los caños de Meca,
• Playa del Cañuelo,
• Paya de los Lances

Know everything on the Costa de la Luz: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa del Sol

• Playa de la Cala Mijas (La Cala de Mijas)
• Playa La Carihuela (Torremolinos)
• Playa El Bajondillo (Torremolinos)
• Burriana Beach (Nerja)
• Puerto Cabopino Beach and Marina (Marbella)
• Playa de La Malagueta (Malaga)
• Playa Del Cristo (Estepona)
• Playa de la Cala el Cañuelo (Nerja)
• Playa de San Pedro de Alcantara (San Pedro de Alcantara)
• Playa Los Alamos / El Canuelo (Torremolinos)
• Playa Arroyo de La Miel (Benalmadena)
• Carvajal Beach (Benalmadena)

Find everything on the Costa del Sol: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa Tropical

• Playa de Calahonda,
• Playa de La Rijana,
• Playa de Castell de Ferro,
• Playa de La Mamola,
• Playa de La Herradura

Know everything on the Costa Tropical: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

The best beaches in the Costa de Valencia

• Playa de Malvarrosa,
• Playa de Pinedo,
• Platja de la Malladeta,
• Playa de San Antonio,
• Playa de Jeresa,
• Playa de Daimus,
• Playa de Oliva

Know everything on the Costa de Valencia: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

2. Blue Flag rating: 579 beaches in Spain

In Spain, you can choose from 579 beaches, 100 Marina resorts and five sustainable tourist boats, all distinguished with the prestigious Blue Flag award, thanks to their quality and safety.

As such, Spain is the top nation in terms of site ranked by the Blue Flag system.

What does this mean?

• One out of five beaches in Spain has a Blue Flag!
• One out of six beaches in the World is Spanish!

This award is bestowed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This institution was created in 1987 by Europe but now is a worldwide organisation.

What does this distinction guarantee?

The sites are ranked on 31 different criteria’s: Environment, Water Quality, Safety,… Have a look at the full list of criteria’s here.

Find the map with all the beaches, sorted by Access to the beach for disabled, Nudist, Sandy, Rocky, Inland, Coastal,…

3. Q for Quality distinction rating: 248 beaches in Spain

This rating is awarded by the Spanish Tourism Quality Institute (ICTE). The Tourism Institute ranks not only beaches but as well many different sites for the quality and safeness of their sites: campings, hotels, Golfs, Touristic activities,…

Find all lists of the best beaches for all the Spanish Costas in our papers on all the Spanish Costas and on the infographics: Enjoy all the Spanish Costas: get the best out of it: our top papers of 2017

4. The top 10 beaches according to the Tourist Bureau of Spain

1. Illetes, Formentera, Balearic Islands
2. As Catedrais, Galicia
3. La Concha, San Sebastian
4. Bolonia, Costa de la Luz
5. El Cofete, Las Palmas, Canary Islands
6. Cala Bassa, Ibiza, Balearic Islands
7. Las Canteras, Las Palmas, Canary Islands
8. Rodas, Galicia
9. Platja Gran, Cadaqués, Costa Brava
10. Cué, Llanes, Asturias, Costa Verde

Source: Spain Tourist Bureau

If you want to have some pictures of those beaches, google image is a good start but have a look at the impressive database on the website of Aena (the company managing the Spanish airports).

Are you booking your holidays soon? Read our last paper: Our best ideas for planning your holidays in Spain! Our top 2017 papers!

Here are 8 reasons why you need more holidays to enjoy the best Spanish beaches?

Don’t hesitate to tell us what’s your favourite beach or if you found an even more beautiful one to share with our readers!

Looking for a lawyer, an architect, a property hunter in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane

Senior analyst and strategist at HTBIS

Check the full HTBIS team here

The post Summer Edition: Where will you find the top Beaches in Spain? appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Get our best ideas for planning your holidays in Spain!

Before starting with all our top ideas, remember why you need holidays:

Here are a few ideas to help you organise your stay in Spain:

• Summer Edition: Our Top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain
• Summer Edition: Top Golf Courses in Spain
• Summer Edition: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
• Summer Edition: Where will you find the top Beaches in Spain?
• The best Spanish shopping experience you will find in Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid and Malaga!

Check our city trip ePostcards we wrote on Alicante, Malaga, Barcelone and Madrid:

Check all our infographics (with pdf downloadable version) on the Spanish Costas with all the top activities for your holidays

Here is one of the Costa del Sol as an example:

Find everything on the Costa del Sol: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographic.

We have created those infographics for all the Spanish costas: Costa Brava, Costa Barcelona, Costa Daurada, Costa de Azahar, Costa de Valencia, Costa Blanca, Costa Calida, Costa de Almería, Costa Tropical, Costa del Sol, Costa de la Luz, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands.

A few other papers that could be of interest:

• What are the most favourite tourist destinations in Europe?
• Where are the tourists coming from to visit Spain?
• The most loved Spanish regions for the foreigners’ properties: British, French, German,…
• Who are the foreigners buying properties in Spain? Our detailed analysis
• What are the hottest tourists destinations in Spain – Winter months?
• Who are the foreigners living in Spain?
• Are you buying real estate in Spain?… Join our 36.000 readers … from 169 countries in the world!!!
• The top 10 Spanish cities where foreigners love to buy properties!
• What are the nationalities of the passengers flying to/from Spanish airports ?
• Which are the most active airline companies in Spain?
• What are the biggest airports in Spain?
• Give us your country of origin… we will tell you how much you love Spain!

Finally, if you want to know more about any top Spanish Cities (not only about the real estate market) find all our City papers here:

Everything you ever wanted to know about the top 20 Spanish Cities real estate markets

Of course, check our weather infographics with the monthly statistics of the top 20 cities in Spain.

Monthly Weather Statistics on top Spanish Cities

Looking for an expert in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane

Senior analyst and strategist at HTBIS

Check the full HTBIS team here

The post Our best ideas for planning your holidays in Spain! appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Canary Islands

The islands of eternal spring

Endless tongues of white sand and turquoise waters to get lost, beautiful virgin bays for sunbathing surrounded by wild nature. With more than 500 beaches of all types and colours, an excellent climate installed in the eternal spring with long sunny days and temperatures between 19 and 25 degrees throughout the year, the Canary Islands are the envy of all Europe.

Why will you love the Canary Islands?

Apart from the weather, the Canary Islands are also known for hosting the second most popular carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro. It is celebrated in February in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, although the most famous version is the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The Canary Islands also have the highest mountain in Spain, the Teide volcano. Its surroundings are within the boundaries of the National Park of the same name, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the best places to contemplate the stars and enjoy the night sky.

Sand lovers, photographers and nature lovers will feel perfect on the islands because the diversity of its landscapes is one of those breathtaking spectacles. Deserted golden sands, beaches of volcanic sand and dramatic cliffs with incredible caves in La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.

Also, the ideal climate and the immense nature make the land suitable to go out and enjoy them doing sports. Golf, football, surfing, fishing or diving are some of the options to choose from. The Canary Islands also have many water parks for both the little ones and adults. Play with the best golf club sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.

Playa de las Cucharas, Lanzarote

The Treasures of the Canary Islands

The most populated islands are Tenerife and Gran Canaria. The two have almost 900,000 inhabitants each. Then follow, Lanzarote, with almost 150,000 inhabitants, Fuerteventura, with a little more than 100,000 people living there, La Palma, with 80,000 inhabitants, La Gomera, with 20,000, and El Hierro, with just over 10,000 inhabitants.

Gran Canaria is only accessible by ferry and plane. There is an airport connecting to the main cities of Spain and Europe. It is also easy to get to the other islands of the archipelago by plane and ferry. There is a highway that connects the north and the south, and many other routes that lead to any corner of Gran Canaria.

Tenerife, like Gran Canaria, is only accessible by ferry and plane, the best option. Tenerife has two airports, one in the north and one in the south with connections to the main cities of Spain and Europe.

There is also a highway connecting the North to the South and other major routes that make anywhere on the island accessible in less than three hour drive.

The rest of the islands, except La Gomera, have airports that connect with the other islands and some (such as Fuerteventura and Lanzarote) also offer flights to Barcelona and Madrid. These islands also have ferry connections with the rest of the islands, so you can connect between them by plane or boat.

Gran Canaria

Parties and events

The main festivals that are celebrated in the Canary Islands are the following:

• The Dwarf Dance in Santa Cruz de La Palma, where a chorus of men (doctors, gentlemen, navigators, etc.) walk to the rhythm of the melody.
• The Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the quintessential fiesta of the islands.
• The Naval Car of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• The Pilgrimage of San Isidro Labrador. It is a religious festival, but with a playful and traditional character.
• The Feasts of the Virgin of Candelaria.
• The Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz (Tenerife), is one of the most popular in the area.
• The Indians on the island of La Palma, where the arrival of the “Indianos” is recalled, a name that was known in the Canary Islands to the islanders who emigrated to America and returned to the islands.

Tenerife

The real estate market in the Canary Islands

During the years of the crisis, the prices of the apartments fell to 2001 levels, as in the whole country. In the last two years, the real estate market is experiencing a slow recovery. For example, the price per square meter in Las Palmas is about 1,500 €, while in 2008 was its peak, when the price was more than € 2,000 per square meter. Gran Canaria is still one of the cheapest places in Spain where you can buy a house. As of March 2022, prices were at 1,595€/sq m.

As for Tenerife, in 2021, the price per square meter on the island was around € 1300 (in the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the price per square meter was almost € 1,700). Expectations for 2023 are that the market will continue to grow, but a little slower when compared to Barcelona or Madrid

So does the origin of buyers, Karin Muegge of Immorent Canarias, states that the Canary Islands attract people from all over Europe.

“Among them, British, Germans, French and Italians are the main buyers. If we look in more detail who are the main buyers, Ian Meyer of Tate Properties Tenerife notes that ” the British, Belgians and Italians are among the main buyers”.

Likewise, all these trends may change in the future, for example, although the British are the main buyers, as happens in other parts of Spain adds Konstantin Hinner.

In regard to what areas are preferred by foreigners, if we look at the case of Tenerife, Konstantin Hinner Insular Projects SA explains that “after the crisis, we see that the southern part of the island is receiving as much of the foreign investment as before, however, there is a tendency to invest less in this area, the most tourist part of Tenerife, and to invest in the rural area where the locals live, not far from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the university city of San Cristobal de la Laguna “.

Check the real estate price evolution for the Canary Islands since 1995

For more on that, read our detailed quarterly report on the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria property market and the Canary Islands property market.

Read the article written by our local property finder, Manuel, in Tenerife: Tenerife property investment: a Case study of property for sale in Tenerife or check the one we wrote on the real estate market of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Gran Canaria, the tropical gem of Spain

If you want to check the monthly weather statistics for Las Palmas de Gran Canaria follow to link.

Download here our map of the Canary Islands

Are you looking for a local partner: Lawyer, property hunter in the Canary Islands? Don’t look further check our team and ask us for the correct contact.

1. Best Professionals 2. Follow up 3. Competitive pricing 4. Partners 5. Qualitative Check

Canary Islands Infographic information

• Airports: Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, Tenerife
• Ave stations: –
• Cities: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (379,000 inhabitants), Santa Cruz de Tenerife (203,600 inhabitants), San Cristóbal de la Laguna (153,100 inhabitants), Telde (102,200 inhabitants), Arrecife (58,500 inhabitants), Puerto del Rosario (38,100 inhabitants), Maspalomas (36,100 inhabitants),
• Unesco sites: San Cristóbal de La Laguna (1999), Garajonay National Park (1986), Teide National Park (2007). Find all the UNESCO Sites in Spain on our page: “10 reasons why you should buy in Spain”
• Top beaches: Pozo de la Salud (El Hierro), Playa de Cofete (Morro del Jable), Playa de las Conchas (Isla de Graciosa), El Cotillo Beach & Lagoons (El Cotillo), Playa de Benijo (Almaciga), Playa Sotavento (Costa Calma), Playa de Sotavento, Playa de Jandia, Playa del Matorral (Pajara), Playa de Las Canteras (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), Monumento Natural de Ajuy (Fuerteventura), Playa Del Duque (Costa Adeje), Playa Dorada Beach (Playa Blanca), Piscinas Naturales El Caleton (Garachico), Playa El Bollullo (Puerto de la Cruz), Playa de las Vistas (Los Cristianos), Playa de Maspalomas (Maspalomas)
• Kids Parks: Siam Park (Adeje), Oasis Park Fuerteventura (Fuerteventura), Loro Park (Puerto de la Cruz), Holiday World Maspalomas (Maspalomas), Katmandu park
• Shopping Malls & Outlets: Siam Mall (Adeje), Centro Comercial Las Arenas (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), Centro Comercial Meridiano (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Marina Lanzarote (Arrecife)”
• Traditional & Flea markets: Mercado del puerto market (Palmas de Gran Canaria), Las Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)
• Top golf courses: Abama, Golf del Sur, Anfi Tauro, Tecina, Maspalomas, El Cortijo Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
• Natural Parks: Caldera de Taburiente (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Garajonay (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Teide (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Timanfaya (Las Palmas)
• University: Universidad de las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria), Universidad de la Laguna (Tenerife)
• Hospitals: Hospital Universitario de Canarias (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Hospitales San Roque (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria)

Read further on the Balearic Islands and Spain

1. TOURIST OFFICES:
   • Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
   • Santa Cruz de Tenerife
   • San Cristóbal de la Laguna
2. AIRPORTS: All the Spanish Airports and flights info on the official site of AENA
3. BEACHES: Where will you find the top beaches in Spain?
4. GOLFS: Reread our Summer paper on the subject What are the top golf courses in Spain? Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner. Check the Spanish Federation here: Looking for a Golf Club in Spain?
5. KIDS PARKS: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
6. MUST VISIT IN SPAIN: Our top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, Find all the Unesco sites in Spain

Find all our other articles and maps on the Spanish Costas:

With our team of more than +100 local real estate partners, HowtobuyinSpain helps foreigners to buy real estate in Spain.

The experts from our network are active in all the fields you need:

1. Property finders
2. B&B
3. Lawyers
4. Tax
5. Architects
6. Money Transfer
7. Mortgage
8. Holiday rental management
9. Insure your Spanish property
10. Property survey
11. Renovation

Looking for a property hunter in the Canary Islands? Manuel is our local expert, check is profile by following the link.

Looking for a real estate lawyer in the Canary Islands? Vera is our local partner, check her profile.

Looking for an expert in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane

Senior Analyst and Strategist at HTBIS

Check the full team at HTBIS here

The post Discover the wonderful Canary Islands appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Click on any flag to get an automatic translation from Google Translate. Some news could have an original translation here: News Nouvelles Nieuws Noticias Nachrichten

Spain’s tourism is back… to new highs as of April 2023 ☀  😎

In this quick guide, you will find all our resources in order to organise your best holidays in Spain. Of course, it is very helpful as well if you are looking to buy a property in Spain.

Too busy? Here is our quick-read summary:

Here is why tourism is strong in Spain – our 4 minutes video

Would you like to watch this video in your own language? Click at the bottom right of the video on “cc” to get subtitles in your language.

Spain recorded its best April ever in terms of international tourist numbers and spending levels

20% above the pre-pandemic record

Spain had a record year regarding tourism in 2019, nearly 84m tourists visited Spain. Since then… we all know the story.

But, yes make no mistake, April 2023 saw its biggest number of incoming tourists in Spain EVER!

In the first four months, Spain received 21 million arrivals, 32.4% more than in the same period in 2022, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE).

Visitor and spending records were also broken in April: 8.48 billion euros, up 22.7% on 2022 and 20.2% on the best pre-pandemic figure (2019).

Héctor Gómez: “These are extraordinary figures that show, once again, that Spain is at the forefront, that tourism is recovering fully and that the government’s policies are working”.

Here is the evolution of tourism towards Spain with a rolling year of data:

Major research conducted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global body which represents the private sector of Travel & Tourism, has revealed Travel & Tourism is the largest sector in the Spanish economy, contributing €176bn to the nation’s activity.

Yes indeed: Travel & Tourism contributes 15% of the Spanish GDP, overtaking Construction (14%) and ahead of Retail (12%) and Health (12%).

Why Spanish tourism is booming again? There are many reasons:

The top #10 reasons why tourists love Spain so much

Let’s start with the three obvious reasons: weather, a long coastline and of course a word class lifestyle.

#1 The weather: Spain has 320 days of sun ☀ per year, not bad.

Check this useful infographic showing how many hours of sun you will have on a yearly basis for any place in Europe.

Sunshine map of Europe, in Hours per year

Source: Wikemedia.org

Sunshine in Spain is higher than 2500 hours per year… No other country can compete in Europe with that and if you calculate the number of square kilometre with at least 2500 hours of sun per year, Spain has about 80% of the European supply. In this other interesting table from World weather online, Spain holds 6 out of the top 10 positions in Europe in terms of average monthly sun hours.

Number of hours of sun per month for the major European cities

Do you want to check the weather statistics for any Spanish city to make an informed decision? Have a look at our Infographics on the monthly weather statistics for the 18 biggest cities in Spain: Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, Malaga,… and discover the sea temperature, the number of hours of sun per day, the number of mm of rain per month… Everything you need before planning your holidays.

Monthly weather statistics for the top 20 Spanish cities

#2 The wonderful coastline of Spain

Spain has the second longest coastal line in the south of Europe behind Italy. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Spain. Don’t miss our detailed articles on all the Spanish Costas later in this article.

 

#3 The Spanish lifestyle

 

• Spain is the world’s healthiest country

 

• Spain enjoys a very stable political environment compared to Africa or Turkey for instance.

 

• Life expectancy in Spain is the second-best country in the world:

Let’s check the top 10 countries in the world by country and by sex. As you will see in the statistics produced by the OECD (2014 data), the life expectancy of Spaniards is the second longest in the world behind the Japanese. The Women are ranked as well as second and the men are ranked sixth.

• The Spanish health Care System is the seventh best in the world as the ranking of the World Health Organization.

 

• Spain is fourth in the world for work-life balance ranking

behind the Netherlands, Denmark and France. What a terrific result! The key findings of the research from the OECD are that the ability to successfully combine work, family commitments and personal life are important for the well-being of all members of a household. In Spain, almost 6% of employees work very long hours, less than the OECD average of 13%. The more people work, the less time they have to spend on other activities, such as time with others, leisure activities, eating or sleeping. The amount and quality of leisure time are important for people’s overall well-being and can bring additional physical and mental health benefits. In Spain, full-time workers devote 66% of their day on average, or 15.9 hours, to personal care (eating, sleeping, etc.) and leisure (socialising with friends and family, hobbies, games, computer and television use, etc.) – more than the OECD average of 15 hours.

At around 1.3 children per woman, fertility rates in Spain have been amongst the lowest in the OECD for the past two decades. Increasingly, women and men first want to establish themselves in the labour market before having children. This has led to a postponement of childbirth and the average age of first childbirth for mothers is now close to 30. Low fertility rates are also related to a fall in the number of large families and a significant proportion of women remaining childless.”

 

#4 The cost of living in Spain

 

The cost of life in Spain is much lower than European averages.

We did the work with the help of the Statistics from Eurostat as of December 2017 to compare Spain vs all the other countries in Europe so that you could compare to your actual country of origin.

Here are the results:

Cost of living in Spain vs Euirope, chart

If you compare Spain on this Chart in Orange colour with Europe in Blue colour, you will notice that Spain is more expensive in 2 areas: “Electricity, Gaz and fuels” and “Furniture and Furnishings” by 3%. A third sector not represented on this chart is Communication, which is 28% more expensive than the rest of Europe. For all the other sectors, Spain is cheaper!

Let’s have a look at the data:

Cost of living in Spain vs Europe, table

As you can see with the General Index, Spain is on average 10% Cheaper than Europe! Then, Spain is very cheap for “Transport Services”, “Restaurants and Hotels”, and “Clothing” and yes the list doesn’t stop here… Spain is really cheap for “Food and Drinks and Tobacco”.

For more information, read our articles on that subject with more up-to-date data:

• Which are the Spanish cities with the lowest cost of living?
• The cost of living in Spain vs UK

 

Cost of living in the major Spanish cities vs worldwide cities

 

#5 Family activities in Spain

Many interesting activities to practice with the family in Spain, here are a few:

• Where will you find the top Beaches in Spain?
• Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
• Our Top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain (see more later)
• And of course, no season for shopping (but we added to the winter section just below) 🙂

 

#6 Spain is a  wonderful place for Golf lovers

 

• Our Top 6 Golf Courses in Spain
• The 48 golf courses of the Costa del Sol & The best deals
• Our list of Spain’s top 5 golf academies

 

#7 Not only for the summer… Spain is the perfect place for tourism in the Winter

With its nice weather, Spain stays a nice place to visit even in the winter.

Last but not least… yes, let’s enjoy some shopping:

• #8 The best Spanish shopping experience: Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga
• The best shopping secret in Spain: El Corte Ingles Tourist Card

 

#8 Cultural heritage tourism and rural tourism

Cultural heritage tourism in Spain thrives as the nation’s rich history paints a diverse and compelling tapestry of civilizations.

From the prehistoric caves of Altamira to the grandeur of the Alhambra in Granada, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the country offers a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage sites that reflect the influences of the Romans, Moors, and more recently, the modernist movement.

Lastly, nature and rural tourism flourish in Spain’s diverse landscapes. From the rugged Picos de Europa to the volcanic beauty of the Canary Islands, and the tranquillity of idyllic rural villages, Spain offers a variety of ecological diversity that inspires a sense of awe and adventure among outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Top Sights places & Unesco world-heritage places

Spain is a very rich country in terms of culture. You have a lot of Museums, many historic places, many sightseeing places. Spain has as well 45 UNESCO Sites and as such is the third country in the world behind Italy & China in terms of the number of sites! So don’t expect Spain to be just Sun and beaches!

Check all the must-do activities on any of the Spanish Costas with our beautiful infographics.

Here is the list of the Unesco sites with direct links to get more information on those:

• Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada(1984)
• Antequera Dolmens Site(2016)
• Aranjuez Cultural Landscape(2001)
• Archaeological Ensemble of Mérida(1993)
• Archaeological Ensemble of Tárraco(2000)
• Archaeological Site of Atapuerca(2000)
• Burgos Cathedral(1984)
• Catalan Romanesque Churches of the Vall de Boí(2000)
• Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville(1987)
• Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain(1985)
• Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana(2011)
• Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija(2012)
• Historic Centre of Cordoba(1984)
• Historic City of Toledo(1986)
• Historic Walled Town of Cuenca(1996)
• La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia(1996)
• Las Médulas(1997)
• Monastery and Site of the Escurial, Madrid(1984)
• Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias(1985)
• Mudejar Architecture of Aragon(1986)
• Old City of Salamanca(1988)
• Old Town of Ávila with its Extra-Muros Churches(1985)
• Old Town of Cáceres(1986)
• Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct(1985)
• Palau de la Música Catalana and Hospital de Sant Pau, Barcelona(1997)
• Palmeral of Elche(2000)
• Poblet Monastery(1991)
• Prehistoric Rock Art Sites in the Côa Valley and Siega Verde(1998)
• Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Úbeda and Baeza(2003)
• Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula(1998)
• Roman Walls of Lugo(2000)
• Routes of Santiago de Compostela:Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain (1993)
• Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe(1993)
• San Cristóbal de La Laguna(1999)
• San Millán Yuso and Suso Monasteries(1997)

Here is Our Top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain

 

#9 Nature tourism

Spain is an ideal destination for nature tourism, offering a diverse range of environments that attract visitors from around the world.

From the rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Costa Brava to the breathtaking peaks of the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada, the country presents an impressive spectrum of natural beauty. Spain’s numerous national parks, such as Donana National Park and Picos de Europa, provide opportunities to see unique wildlife and plants in their native habitats, while the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands, particularly Teide National Park in Tenerife, offer otherworldly vistas.

Moreover, the Camino de Santiago trails draw hikers seeking a blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural experiences. With sustainable practices gaining traction, eco-friendly accommodations and tours are also becoming increasingly popular, further boosting nature tourism in Spain.

Thus, for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature, whether through hiking, bird-watching, or simply relaxing, Spain provides an abundance of options.

Countryside outside Barcelona

#10 Gastronomic tourism in Spain

 

Spain is also famous for its gastronomic tourism. The unique flavours of Spanish cuisine, embodied in its tapas, paellas, and world-class wines, draw food enthusiasts to regions like Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Basque Country, providing an edible exploration of the country’s varied regions.

Here are a few examples, not exhaustive of course, of the Spanish cuisines.

 

### The Andalusian Delicacies

Andalusia, nestled in the heart of Spain, is best known for its olives, sherry, and tapas. The region follows the quintessential Mediterranean diet, which focuses on heart-healthy olive oil, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and high-quality proteins like fish and legumes. One must-try dish is the Gazpacho Andaluz, a refreshing tomato-based cold soup that perfectly embodies the region’s love for fresh produce. Pair this with a glass of Fino or Manzanilla, Andalusia’s signature sherries, for a well-rounded Andalusian feast.

Spanish beef

### The Seafood Extravaganza of Galicia

Moving up to the north-west coast, Galicia boasts a breathtaking coastline that contributes heavily to its seafood-rich diet. Here, the Empanada Gallega reigns supreme – a hearty pie filled with various ingredients, most commonly tuna, sardines, or pork. Don’t miss out on the region’s renowned Pulpo a la Gallega, a delicacy of tender octopus seasoned with paprika, rock salt, and olive oil. Galicia’s Ribeiro and Albariño wines, with their crisp and fresh qualities, perfectly complement the seafood palette.

### The Gastronomic Wonders of Catalonia

In Catalonia, gastronomy is as diverse as the region itself, blending flavours from the mountains and the sea. The traditional Catalan diet is rich in vegetables, legumes, and cereals, supplemented by meat and dairy products. An iconic dish is the Escudella i Carn d’Olla, a hearty meat and vegetable stew savoured during the winter months. Catalan cream, a sweet and creamy custard topped with a hard layer of caramel, is a must-try dessert for the sweet-toothed traveller.

### The Unique Flavours of Basque Country

Last but not least, we journey to the Basque Country, a region celebrated for its pintxos – small finger foods served atop bread, akin to tapas but with a unique Basque twist. The traditional Basque diet showcases locally sourced ingredients, including fish, lamb, and an assortment of vibrant vegetables. Try the Marmitako, a tuna and potato stew that originated from Basque sailors, and the Gilda, the most iconic pintxo composed of olive, anchovy, and guindilla pepper.

 

The beauty of Spain’s gastronomy lies in its diversity, with each region offering its own unique dietary patterns and food traditions. From the refreshing Gazpacho of Andalusia to the seafood delight of Galicia, the hearty stews of Catalonia, and the famous pintxos of the Basque Country, Spain’s gastronomic landscape invites you on a journey that promises to enchant your senses, captivate your heart, and leave an indelible impression on your palate. So, pack your bags (and your appetite) and embark on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure in Spain!

 

Discover the beautiful Spanish Costas – All our resources are here

In order to help you discover all the Spanish Costas, we wrote detailed articles with nice downloadable maps with all the major activities for each of the Spanish Costas. You will learn about the regions and find all the useful information as:

• Where are the closest Airport and Fast train stations (AVE in Spain)?
• What are the biggest cities in the region?
• Where are the Unesco sites in that Spanish Costa?
• Where can you find the top beaches?
• Where can you find the best Kids’ Parks, traditional markets, Shopping Malls & Outlets, Top golf courses and Natural Parks?
• Last but not least, we will give you a direct link to the local tourist offices.

Here are all the links for the different articles and infographics on all the Spanish Costas:

• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de Almería.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa del Azahar.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Balearic Islands.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de Barcelona.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa Blanca.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa Brava.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about Costa Calida.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Canary Islands.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about Costa Daurada.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de la Luz.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa del Sol.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa Tropical.
• Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de Valencia.

 

Find all our best Spanish Costas infographics: Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Costa Barcelona, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands,…

 

Spanish tourism in numbers: Where do tourists go? Where do they stay?

Here is a quick sum up of all the interesting statistics about tourists visiting Spain from the Spanish national office. All the data are for the full year 2022. So yes, they are not yet back to pre-coronavirus 2019 but close to being. 2023 just started strongly and should be back to 2019 level if not stronger.

#1 Where do tourists in Spain come from?

The top 5 countries for the full year 2022 are:

1. The United Kingdom with 21% of the tourists
2. Germany with 14% of the tourists
3. France with 14% of the tourists
4. Nordic countries with 6% of the tourists
5. Italy with 6% of the tourists
6. Netherlands with 5% of the tourists

Here is our interactive chart with those data:

If you are travelling to Spain and would like to buy your dream home, start with our Spanish property buyer’s guides written for the top 10 nationalities buying properties in Spain.

 

#2 How do tourists arrive in Spain?

83% of the tourists visiting Spain came by plane. If we think about it, it’s obvious, people travel from far where they have less sun to Spain in order to enjoy the sun. Spain has a very strong network of International Airports.

Have a look at our earlier articles on that:

• What are the nationalities of the passengers flying to/from Spanish airports in 2018?
• What are the biggest airports in Spain?

The second way of arriving in Spain is the car, 15% of travellers towards Spain come by car. Spain benefits from a very strong infrastructure network and in addition to that, there is a latest trend in Spain: Motorways are becoming toll-free in Spain…

Last but not least, even if the AVE Network does exist for more than 25 years in Spain, only a minor portion of tourists come from abroad with fast trains. For sure, the fast train AVE Network helps tourists to move quickly between cities.

#3 Which are the most visited Spanish Regions by foreign tourists in 2022?

The top 4 Spanish regions are receiving 70% of the tourism traffic.

1. Catalonia with 21% of the tourists
2. The Balearic Islands with 18% of the tourists
3. The Canary Islands with 17% of the tourists
4. Andalusia with 14% of the tourists
5. Valencian Community with 12.0% of the tourists
6. Other Spanish regions apart from Madrid: 9.2%
7. Madrid with 8.4% of the tourists

Discover all the beautiful Costas of  Spain

Find all our best Spanish Costas infographics: Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Costa Barcelona, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands,…

#4 How long do tourists stay in Spain?

• No night 32% of trips
• 1 night 3% of trips
• 2 to 3 nights for 12% of trips to Spain
• 4 to 7 nights for 33% of trips and so yes, this is the most common length of stay in Spain
• 8 to 15 nights for 15% of travellers
• More than 15 nights for only 5% of travellers, I guess retirees :-).

#5 Where do the tourists stay in Spain? Hotel? Friends?

There were 71,561,489 trips booked in 2022 by foreigners in Spain. Out of those 83% paid to stay a night somewhere and 17% didn’t pay.

For those paying for their accommodations, here is where they went:

• 82.5% of tourists booked a hotel
• 12% went for a housing rental
• And the balance went for camping or other facilities like the “Casa Rural”

For the tourists that did not pay for staying in Spain,  they either enjoyed their personal property 34.5% or enjoyed the hospitality of family and friends 60% of them. The balance is other non-paying options for 5%.

What are the best investment opportunities for a second home?

In order to assist you with your property hunting in Spain, check our dedicated article: The best search tips for buying your Spanish property (if you are too busy start here)

Other interesting resources on Spanish Tourism

• The Ministry of Tourism in Spain
• Wikipedia on Spanish Tourism
• The official tourism office in Spain
• Lonely planet guide on Spain
• And for French readers “Le guide du routard sur l’Espagne”
• Interesting statistics on Spanish Tourism from Statista.

Our downloadable infographics on the Spanish tourism

If you want to have more resources before visiting Spain, here is the official website of the Spanish tourism office.

Source: INE

Our FAQ on Tourism in Spain

The post Spain’s tourism is back… to new highs as of April 2023☀    appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

The best shopping secret in Spain: El Corte Ingles Tourist Card

A rebate of 10% + VAT refund for countries outside EU

What do you have to do?

1. Before shopping, register inside the shop at the non-resident desk and ask for your personal card valid 5 Days.
2. Shop at any of the “El Corte Ingles” shop
3. If you bought on your first purchase for 100€ for instance, you will benefit of a rebate of 10% on your next purchase (here 10€).
4. On your second purchase, you will benefit from a further 10% rebate on the amount of your ticket for your third purchase.

For non-resident foreign visitors. Check the terms and conditions at the Store

Ask for a refund of VAT if you are coming from outside Europe and buying for more than 100€.

Ask for your 10% rebate on your next purchase at El Corte Ingles if you are an international traveller. You have El Corte Ingles shops in Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Alicante and Marbella.

Read our other paper on the same subject: The best Spanish shopping experience you will find in Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid and Malaga!

Discover other shopping and holidays tips on all the Spanish Costas in our useful infographic:

Know everything on the Spanish Costas: Airports, AVE stations, Cities and villages, shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check our infographics.

If you are booking a city trip in Spain, don’t forget our nice ePostcards we wrote on Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante and Malaga:

Here are other interesting sources for shopping in Spain:

• Find the shopping addresses in the Spanish cities published by the official Tourist office in Spain
• Find the shopping addresses from Lonely Planet, the famous travel guides
• Allways check to tourist office of any of the city you will visit. If you search on our site (top right column of this paper) for any city, you will find the article we wrote on it and most of the time at the bottom of the article you have a link towards the tourist office of the city.

Looking for a property expert in Spain? Architect, Lawyer, Property hunter? Ask us directly!

Stéphane

Senior analyst and strategist at HTBIS

Check the full HTBIS team here

The post The best shopping secret in Spain: El Corte Ingles rebate card appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de la Luz

Introduction

Costa de la Luz, one of the most famous Spanish Costas, is known for its warm climate, charming people and natural landscapes that would leave anyone filled with awe.

This costa is located in the Spanish southwest, within the southern community of Andalusia, it spans from Tarifa to the Guadiana river, and it covers the coasts of both provinces of Huelva and Cádiz. One of the things that separate costa the la Luz from the rest of the Spanish Costas is the fact that it does not border the Mediterranean Sea, instead, beachgoers will enjoy the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Weather-wise, this Costa is much like other southern locations in Spain, with very hot summers that can get up to 28 degrees Celsius (82 Fahrenheit) and mild winters that go as low as 9 Celsius (49 Fahrenheit), and with almost 12 hours a day of direct sunlight, and around 6 rainy days throughout the whole summer, this will make it a fantastic beach-visiting experience. Have a look at our weather infographics for the top 20 Spanish cities, with for instance Cádiz. You will get detailed monthly statistics on any month of the year.

Monthly Weather Statistics on top Spanish Cities

Nonetheless, beaches are not the only highly enjoyable places to go to in this wonderful place, there are many golf courses, kitesurf facilities (that go along perfectly with the winds of the Atlantic Ocean), a plethora of restaurants and Spanish style bar/cafeterias, as well as shopping malls in Cádiz and Huelva. Play with the best golf club sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.

If you are looking for beautiful nature, there are several national parks you can enjoy yourself in, such as National Park Doñana, Alcornocales, Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche, do Sudoeste, Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, da Arrábida, Doñana National Park, Sierra de las Nieves, Estrecho, Sierra de Grazalema, Vale do Guadiana and Sierra de Huétor.

The biggest and most populated city in the surrounding area is Sevilla, one of the most visited Spanish cities, full to the brim with museums, monuments, natural parks and as many activities as you are willing to try out.

The beachfront of Cadiz

Inside the area of Costa de la Luz, we have three major cities, Ayamonte, with 200.000 inhabitants, Huelva with 150.000 and Cádiz with 120.000, unfortunately, only Cádiz has an airport, and the next nearest one is Sevilla.

As for transport and infrastructure, since the development of the area has been fairly recent, the transport infrastructure in the area is much less developed than, say, Valencia or Madrid, and as such there aren’t as many options regarding public transport. So, if you want to have the freedom to go anywhere at any time, the best thing you could do is use rental car services.

Costa de la Luz is also a historically rich location, as is most of southern Spain, its history dates back to the 12th century BCE, and there are monuments built around the ruins of antique Roman cities, dating back centuries. Christopher Columbus also has a deep connection with these lands, as was the case for the Pinzón Brothers, an important local family, the ones who helped him get his three ships and take sail towards the discovery of the new world.

Planning to invest in the real estate market of the Costa de la Luz?

In the last few years, Costa de la Luz has experienced very sharp growth in tourist appeal, it had always been famous amongst vacationing Spaniards, but it was the international attention that brought life to this area since the area is now very commonly visited by French and German tourists.

Nonetheless, economic growth has not been the only thing that the sharp increase in tourists brought. The prices of housing and the real estate market, in general, started to stabilize in the area as a consequence, which is great for property owners, but It also means that investors all around the world wanted to buy properties and as a result, the value of properties is now higher.

At the same time, rental prices in the area also went up, faster than people thought they would, and also faster than the tourist’s money could come, this meant a rise in prices all around, which has brought up complaints among the locals.

Although the economic concerns have not been in any way small, they have not been the only ones, as the increase in tourism has also raised environmental concerns, this is due to the rapid expansion of the urban areas, which has been accelerated by the speculation in the real estate market, causing several instances of environmental aggressions and bad practices that put the same beaches that attracted the tourists now in jeopardy.

This has made experts in the real estate market worried about the future of the area, but the prices are still recovering, and the expansion of the urban areas is still quite aggressive. This all means that, in the current market, investments in this area are healthy in general. Still, at the same time we can see some speculation in certain specific areas and the future of tourism in the area is not yet a sure thing, maybe due to the underinvestments of the authorities.

Check the real estate price evolution of Cadiz and Spain since 1995

If you want to read more on the real estate market, have a quick look at the two papers we wrote: The real estate market in Cadiz, 2017 and Discover the charm of the south and invest in Seville.

Read more: Real estate prices in Cadiz and Real estate prices in Sevilla are available on our Spanish property report updated quarterly.

What about retiring in the Costa de la Luz?

If what you are looking for is an exciting place full of things to do, beaches to visit and parks to go for a walk on, Costa de la Luz is a great alternative, especially because the prices for properties in the small cities of the Costa de la Luz are lower than those in bigger cities such as Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona or Madrid.

But it is important for you to consider that, as in many highly touristic places, your life will completely change with the busy season, especially in the summer, when the hotels don’t have a single room available and the beaches look like a parade of people.

Of course, this also means that you will experience interesting changes every year, you will have a more relaxed pace in a somewhat empty city in the colder months, and then see how everything rapidly comes to life as the temperature rises. Though, if that’s not your thing, you probably will be better off somewhere else.

And if you don’t like walking everywhere, you better have in mind buying a car, because there aren’t all that many places the public transport will take you to. The only high-speed train, known in Spain as AVE, is located in Sevilla, 120 Km (75 miles) away from Cádiz, and even further from Huelva and Ayamonte.

The city centre of Cadiz

Let’s start with some holidays in the Costa de la Luz?

Now, if what you are looking for is a summer house, Costa de la Luz is a great location. You have a wide range of cities and towns of different sizes very near to each other, so you get to choose what kind of experience you have, either a relaxing trip to a small town, to disconnect from reality for a while, or an exciting adventure to a major city, with tons of things to do every day.

But either way, you will have the beaches, so many beaches you won’t be able to see them all in one summer, beaches such as Playa de Isla de Canela, Playa de Torre de la Higuera, Playa de matalascañas, Playa Cruz del Mar, Playa del rompidillo, Playa la Caleta, Playa de la Cortadura, Cala de Roche, Playa de Los caños de Meca, Playa del Cañuelo, Paya de Los Lances, and the most famous on Costa de la Luz, Punta Umbría, well-known for its environmental importance, as it holds a variety of species that are endangered, but also provides a perfect place to stay in for migratory species.

Nonetheless, there are a variety of activities to be done in the summer that don’t imply going to the beach, such as waterparks and amusement parks, like Cortylandia and Aqualand Bahía, both located in Cádiz, and are especially popular among the children, in case you want to have very nice and fun vacations for the whole family.

And having a city such as Sevilla so nearby, a city that hosts so many festivals and carnivals and that is one of the main touristic attractions of Spain, there are almost no things you couldn’t do if you are ever in the unlikely event of having nothing else to do in Costa de la Luz.

Have a quick look at our infographic on Everything you could do in the Costa de la Luz and click on it if you want to download it.

Know everything on the Costa de la Luz: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check out our infographic.

You will love the nature of the Costa de la Luz

To sum up, Costa de la Luz is, objectively, a great place to be in, the nature is revered and appreciated, the magnificent beaches and national parks can be found around every corner, and that has been noticed by many foreigners, too many some would say, and the sudden increase in tourism has brought negative effects on the locals and the real estate market, which is maybe rising to fast in certain regions, at best.

Nonetheless, the beauty of the place is still there, for anyone to see and enjoy, either if you are looking for a great place to have an adventure, a place to go with your family and share bonding experiences with them, or a far location disconnected from the world, or a tranquil but also exciting place to live the rest of your life on, Costa de la Luz makes for an excellent choice.

1. Best Professionals 2. Follow up 3. Competitive pricing 4. Partners 5. Qualitative Check

Costa de la Luz Infographic information

• Airports: Cádiz, Sevilla
• Ave stations: Sevilla
• Cities: Ayamonte (206,000 inhabitants), Huelva (145,500 inhabitants), Cádiz (119,900 inhabitants), El Puerto de Santa María (88,200 inhabitants), Lepe (27,400 inhabitants), Sevilla (690,000 inhabitants)
• Unesco sites: Doñana National Park (1994,2005), Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville (1987), Find all the UNESCO Sites in Spain on our page: “10 reasons why you should buy in Spain”
• Top beaches: Playa de Isla de Canela, Playa de Punta Umbria, Playa de torre de la Higuera, Playa de matalascañas, Playa cruz del mar, Playa del rompidillo, Playa la caleta, Playa de la Cortadura, Cala de Roche, Playa de los caños de Meca, Playa del Cañuelo, Paya de los Lances
• Kids Parks: Cortylandia Cádiz, Aqualand Bahía de Cádiz
• Shopping Malls & Outlets: Centro Comercial Aqualon (Huelva), Centro Comercial Bahía de Cádiz (Cádiz)
• Traditional & Flea markets: Lonja del Barranco Market, Seville
• Top golf courses: Corta Atalaya, La monacilla, Bellavista, Doñana, Sanlucar, Arcos Gardens, Sierra de Grazalema, Montenmedio Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
• Natural Parks: Doñana (Huelva), Natural Park Alcornocales, Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche, Parque Natural do Sudoeste, Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, Parque Natural da Arrábida, Doñana National Park, Sierra de las, Nieves Natural Park, Estrecho Natural Park, Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, Vale do Guadiana Natural Park, Sierra de Huétor Natural Park
• University: Universidad de Huelva, Universidad de Cádiz
• Hospitals: Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar (Cádiz),
  Costa de la Luz Hospital, Hospital Juan Ramon Jimenez (Huelva)

Read further on the Costa de la Luz and Spain

1. TOURIST OFFICES:
   • Costa de la Luz, Cadiz Tourist office
   • Costa de la Luz, Huelva Tourist office
2. AIRPORTS: All the Spanish Airports and flights info on the official site of AENA
3. TRAINS: Renfe website
4. BEACHES: Where will you find the top beaches in Spain?
5. GOLFS: What are the top golf courses in Spain? Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
6. KIDS PARKS: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
7. MUST VISIT IN SPAIN: Our top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, Find all the Unesco sites in Spain

Find all our other articles and maps on the Spanish Costas:

With our team of more than +100 local real estate partners, HowtobuyinSpain helps foreigners to buy real estate in Spain.

The experts from our network are active in all the fields you need:

1. Property finders
2. B&B
3. Lawyers
4. Tax
5. Architects
6. Money Transfer
7. Mortgage
8. Holiday rental management
9. Insure your Spanish property
10. Property survey
11. Renovation

Looking for an expert: Architect, property hunter, lawyer,… in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane and Walter

Senior Analyst and writer at HTBIS

Check the full team at HTBIS here

The post Discover the beauty of the Costa de la Luz appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa Tropical

As the name implies, this whole area is famous because of its tropical-like weather even though it is located on the Mediterranean coast. As in most of Spain, summers have very long days, with more than eleven hours a day of pure uninterrupted sunlight, and 30 sunny days a month, this truly is a paradise for all the beach lovers out there. Temperatures vary wildly, as they tend to do in Mediterranean areas, in summer the average is 26 degrees Celsius (79 for the Americans out there), and in the winter it’s more like 13 degrees (55 Fº). This means that you could possibly get up to 8 months of bathing time a year. Have a look at our weather infographics for the top 20 Spanish cities with all the monthly information up to date.

Monthly Weather Statistics on top Spanish Cities

Location-wise, Costa Tropical is a region inside the Province of Granada, which is itself part of the Community of Andalucía, the southern-most Region of Spain. The Costa is made up of 17 smaller municipalities, that are all joined under the touristic name of Costa Tropical, the only coastline inside of Granada.

This territory has its limits with the region of Poniente Almeriense, Almería, on the East, with Axarquía, Málaga, to the west and to the north with Alhama. The entire southern border of this region is nothing but gorgeous beaches facing the Mediterranean Sea and the coasts of northern Africa.
The capital city of this geographical area is Motril, a small town within spitting distance of the sea. It houses 60 thousand people and it’s the centre for all economic and cultural activities in this area.

This city is a treasure for history lovers, as it has very deep roots in Spanish lands. It is thought to be mentioned in La Bética, a book dating from the times of the Roman Empire.

The centuries of Muslim dominance in Andalucía gave the city its name since it was only retaken by the Spaniards in 1489, three years before the Reconquista ended and Christopher Columbus sailed to discover the new world.

This means that there are still many examples of mosques and other Muslim architecture, that you can get a better look at by going to the Museum of Motril’s History, where the different stages of the city will be explained.

Among the other cities in this area, there is Almuñecar, with a population of 27 thousand people, Salobreña with 12 thousand, Albuñol with 7 thousand and Gualchos with 4 thousand. Thus, we can see that this is a rural area, with small towns and villages all over the territory and a low population density.

As for accessibility and transport, there is not much to say. This is not a heavily populated area, there is no AVE highspeed train station in this area, nor are their normal train stations, and the closest airport is in the city of Málaga, almost 100 kilometres away (63 miles). A car or some other motored vehicle is a must if you want to live comfortably in this area.

The beachfront of Almuñécar

Why not enjoy some holidays in Costa Tropical?

If your objective is to get a place to go on holiday, you are looking for the right place. There are many reasons why you might want to have a property on this area, such as warmer winters, sunny summers, and as many beaches as you are willing to count.

There are many beautiful beaches: Playa de Calahonda, Playa de La Rijana, Playa de Castell de Ferro, Playa de La Mamola, Playa de La Herradura, amongst many, many others. All of these beaches have been granted the European Union’s blue flag, which indicates the high quality of a beach for swimmers and tourists to visit.

There are as well a number of festivals and parties celebrated throughout the year, such as the party celebrated in Easter time, known as Semana Santa (Holy week), Fiesta de Cruces in May 12^th, each town has an Anejo festival dedicated to a virgin, such as Carhuna’s festival in honour of the virgin of the plains, La garnatilla’s in honor of Saint Cecilio, Calahonda’s in honor of Virgen del Carmen and Saint Joaquín, among many, many others.

There are, also, natural parks that you can visit, such as Sierra Nevada national park, Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama natural parks, where you will enjoy great views of the beautiful Spanish landscape.

If you are planning to come with children, you don’t need to worry, for if they ever get bored of pools and beaches, you can take them to the Botanical Park El Majuelo or the Aquarium of Mediterranean wildlife of Almuñecar. If everything else fails, you can always go to the Motril’s Shopping mall.

Know everything on the Costa Tropical: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check out our infographic.

Downloadable pdf of our map of the Costa Tropical

Planning to retire soon? The Costa Tropical could be the nice place you are looking for.

There are many upsides to Costa Tropical if you are looking to retire or enjoy a tranquil life. There are a huge variety of activities available, nonetheless, not many of the king that would get your heart pounding, they are more of the kind that will make you go home with a smile on your face and will make you enjoy yourself for several hours.

Sightseeing is very big in this area due to the number of monuments and attractive locations, there are more than a dozen famous churches and mosques in Motril only, such as Convento de las Nazarenes, Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Victoria, and the Church of the Divina Pastora, the second most worshipped virgin in the world.

But religious buildings aren’t the only thing there to be seen, there are also several famous civil buildings such as the town hall, Calderón de la Barca’s Theatre, the house of Los Bates, and many others to admire.

And, of course, let’s not forget about the Museums, there is an especially large number of Museums in this area, considering its population, this is largely due to the high number of tourists that come to visit every year. Amongst the Museums, there are The Preindustrial museums of sugarcane (a very important crop in the area), the before-mentioned Museum of Motril’s History, and José Hernández Quero’s Art centre.

Nonetheless, if you are thinking of becoming a permanent resident of Costa Tropical, there are many things that you have to be wary of, such as the lack of a Hospital nearby, the nearest one is in the city of Granada.

This doesn’t mean that there aren’t health facilities, there are, but if you need any procedures that require some sort of equipment, or you require the attention of a specialist, you might have to go to Granada to be able to get the attention you need.

The seaviews of Salobreña

What about the real estate market in Costa Tropical?

This area is dominated by a subtropical climate, meaning that its climate replicates a tropical one for most of the year, but still has some characteristics from template areas, like seasons. These are the factors that have made this area very important and valuable from an agricultural perspective since crops like avocados, mango, and others that can only be grown in the tropics can be grown here.

This has made the value of the land rise in the last few years as the popularity of these kinds of vegetables is increasing, and the only other way to get them is by importing them either from Africa or South América, and none of these is cheap options.

If you know about agriculture, have done it before and are looking for a good place to get farmland, this is a great opportunity. Nevertheless, if you are not that experienced with these kinds of projects, it is not advisable to put your money in here, especially considering that a sub-tropical climate is not exactly the same as a tropical one (hence why it’s called sub-tropical), and it can be hard to grow tropical plants in here if you don’t know what you are doing.

Now, if what you are looking for is a real estate return, you could find better places than Costa Tropical. The population in this area is mostly rural, and the density is very low and has been decreasing in the last few years as more and more people move into the big cities. Of course, if you are looking to buy a large rural property for a small investment in a rural area, this could be a good place to search.

Due to the ageing population of the local towns, that are getting smaller by the year, the average price of the residential areas has been steadily decreasing in the last 15 years, and there is no reason to think the trend would change anytime soon, as the younger population migrates looking for better opportunities in nearby larger cities like Málaga.

The farmlands, contrary to what many people would think, do gain value over time, especially the ones in this area, but the profits would not be enough to justify the risk and the amount of necessary starting capital.

To conclude, if you want to invest in Costa Tropical, your best option is to get into farming.

Check the real estate price evolution for the region of Andalusia and Spain since 1995

Read more: Real estate prices in all the Spanish regions available in our Spanish property report updated quarterly.

Conclusion

The Costa Tropical is a beautiful place, where you will find gorgeous beaches everywhere you look, a deep, interesting history, tons of fun activities and places to go to, as well as a relaxed lifestyle for those who just want to step back and enjoy life.

The farmlands are a great opportunity for those knowledgeable in agriculture, but the market doesn’t offer much for the inexperienced.

1. Best Professionals 2. Follow up 3. Competitive pricing 4. Partners 5. Qualitative Check

Costa Tropical Map information

• Airports: The closest airport is the one in Málaga
• Ave stations: –
• Cities: Motril (60,400 inhabitants), Almuñécar (27,400 inhabitants), Salobreña (12,400 inhabitants), Albuñol (7,000 inhabitants), Gualchos (4,900 inhabitants)
• Unesco sites: – Find all the UNESCO Sites in Spain on our page: “10 reasons why you should buy in Spain”
• Top beaches: Playa de Calahonda, Playa de La Rijana, Playa de Castell de Ferro, Playa de La Mamola, Playa de La Herradura
• Kids Parks: “Parque Botánico El Majuelo (Almuñécar), Acuario de Fauna Mediterránea de Almuñécar (Almuñécar)
• Shopping Malls & Outlets: Centro Comercial Motril (Motril)
• Traditional & Flea markets: Zoco del Salon (Granada)
• Top golf courses: Los Moriscos Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
• Natural Parks: Sierra Nevada National Park, Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park
• University: Universidad de Granada (Granada)
• Hospitals: Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves (Granada)

Read further on the Costa Tropical and Spain

1. TOURIST OFFICES:
   • Costa Tropical, Andalusia Tourist office
   • Almuñécar Tourist office
   • Granada and Costa Tropical Tourist office
   • Motril Tourist office
2. AIRPORTS: All the Spanish Airports and flights info on the official site of AENA
3. TRAINS: Renfe website
4. BEACHES: Where will you find the top beaches in Spain?
5. GOLFS: What are the top golf courses in Spain? Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
6. KIDS PARKS: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
7. MUST VISIT IN SPAIN: Our top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, Find all the Unesco sites in Spain

Find all our other articles and maps on the Spanish Costas:

With our team of more than +100 local real estate partners, HowtobuyinSpain helps foreigners to buy real estate in Spain.

The experts from our network are active in all the fields you need:

1. Property finders
2. B&B
3. Lawyers
4. Tax
5. Architects
6. Money Transfer
7. Mortgage
8. Holiday rental management
9. Insure your Spanish property
10. Property survey
11. Renovation

Looking for an expert: Architect, property hunter, lawyer,… in Spain? Ask us directly!

Stéphane and Walter

Senior Analyst and writer at HTBIS

Check the full team at HTBIS here

The post The best places to visit in the Costa Tropical appeared first on How to buy in Spain.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Costa de Almería

Almería is a very common name when tourism is the subject. It might refer to Almeria City, house to nearly 200.000 people. Or it might refer to the Spanish province of Almería, of which Almería city is the capital. Either way, the name only brings up images of beautiful beaches, stunning mountain ranges and quite interesting history.

Location-wise, the province of Almería is located in the Autonomous community of Andalusia, a huge landmass that thoroughly covers the south end of the Iberic peninsula. The province’s border is marked by several natural landmarks, such as Gádor’s Sierra to the west, Sierra Alhamilla on the north, a great valley with the delta of the Andaraz river over the east, and hundreds of miles of gorgeous coast along the southern border with the Mediterranean Sea.

As for the climate, most of the Iberic peninsula’s conditions are maintained, nonetheless, the temperatures are much lower than those of the northern provinces, unsurprisingly. With minimum temperatures of 8º (Celsius) on a January morning and maximum temperatures of 31º on an August noon. Normally, bathing time extends from May to October, which is just shy of 9 months. Find out all the monthly statistics for the city of Almería, including sea temperature, in our infographic.

Looking at Almería’s History, you will discover how interesting it has been, since it was only in 1492 that the “Reconquista” succeeded, meaning that there were still some Arabic remains on the lands before. The Arabic forces that once dominated almost all of the Iberic peninsula were now cornered and forced to flee, ending a conflict that had been going on for almost 8 centuries straight. This victory was achieved the same year that Christopher Columbus took a famous trip over the Atlantic toward the Americas.

The Arabic influence is very strongly rooted in this area, a great example of this is the former Arabic fortress known as “La Alcazaba”, built in the year 955 by the Muslim governors of the time, which ruled from its insides. If ancient architecture and medieval history are counted among your interests, this is a place you can’t go without seeing.

The Alcazaba of Almería is a fortified complex in Almería. The word “Alcazaba” from the Arabic word al-qasbah, signifies a walled-fortification in a city.

Infrastructure in the area is certainly lacking, but this is no surprise since the most populated city of the province does not reach 200.000 citizens. This is a very rural area, if we count the population of the top 6 cities’ (Almería, Roquetas del Mar, El Ejido, Adra, Vera and Berja), we only get a tad over 400.000 thousand people.

This means two things, first, the infrastructure is the one of a big town, not a small city. Of course, there are the basic buildings such as hospitals, 2 in Almería and 1 in Roquetas, there is the University of Almería, and the Almería Airport, but there isn’t much more. An AVE (high-speed trains) station will be greatly appreciated, and its construction is being planned.

Nonetheless, there is an old fashion railway station that connects the province directly with the city of Granada, other cities such as Madrid and Barcelona are accessible via transhipment. There are also interurban bus routes that connect the city with every province in Spain and even some in France.

What about the real estate market in Almería?

First, let’s talk about Almería’s general economy. Before the 2007 global crisis, Almería was well off, the unemployment rate was below 5% and the number of businesses was doing nothing but growing. Although Almería had a solid economy before the crisis, it had and still has a heavy relationship with tourism, which is not a particularly profitable sector right after a world crisis.

After the crisis, the number of unemployed people skyrocketed, as it did in the rest of Spain, but thanks to Almería’s heavy dependence on tourism and low production, Almería’s economy has been recovering ever since, and even though tourism is becoming profitable again, the government has been trying to implement ways of production besides tourism.

The most important one is the agricultural sector. Almería has one of the most important zones of production in Europe, with several thousands of square miles under greenhouses. With more than 2.000 hectares of tomatoes and 70 olives, it is not to be underestimated.

Now, the rest of the industries have fallen behind, Almería is not a trading centre and they do not have much production of manufactured goods, but the tourism sector is starting to grow again, with thousands of tourists visiting the city year-round.

As for the Real Estate Market, it has not been doing very well in the last few years, the prices for the most expensive and luxurious properties have fallen very low, but unexpectedly, the prices of the most affordable and inexpensive properties have risen significantly.

Nonetheless, the market has been predicted to reach a limit for inexpensive properties, but the costlier ones can always go lower. This all means that, unless you are trying to build either a hotel or a farm, if you want to buy real estate in Almería, you will do it to enjoy lower prices… And not, at least in the short term, to make a huge profit.

Read our paper we wrote last year in Almería if you want to discover more of the city: Almería, one of the Andalusian pearls

Check the real estate price evolution for Almería and Spain since 1995

For more on that, read our detailed quarterly report on the Almería property market.

Could Almería be your ideal retiring spot?

Almería is a small and simple place and the people live simple, enjoyable lives. If what you are looking for is a place to relax, to get away from the hassle of living in a crowded metropolitan area, this is the place for you. And as we just explained, last but not least, the real estate prices are low.

But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do, as a matter of fact, there are many places where you can recreate and enjoy your free time in and around Almería, just to list a few, there are:

The Museum of Almería, Almería’s Art Museum, the house of cinematography, the Guitar’s Museum, the Civil war shelters, the olive oil museum, the Cervantes Theatre and the Apolo Theatre, and a variety of culturally important locations that you must visit.

There are as well many festivals that you can enjoy, such as the Festival in honour of the Virgen del Mar, La Semana Santa (Holy Week, celebrated during Easter), The carnival, The Corpus Christi, Saint Joan’s Night, and Día del Pendón.

Those who are into the history of cinematography will be thrilled to know that the movie theatre in Almería has had an outstanding role since the 60s, and this province has been the scenery for many very famous and important movies, such as Conan the Barbarian, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Indiana Jones and the last crusade, among many others.

Know everything about Costa Almeria: its Airports, its AVE stations, its Cities and villages, its shopping places: Traditional & Flea markets, Outlets and shopping malls. What should you visit? The Unesco sites, the parks for kids, the green parks, the golf courses, the universities and last but not least the top beaches. Check out our infographic.

Download the pdf map of the Costa de Almeria

Why not start with some holidays in Almería?

If you are looking for a summer house, a place in which you can let go of the responsibilities of your life and isolate yourself for a while, this is the place for you. If you have children, though, you might want to go somewhere else.

Almería is not a very big place, but there are many beaches where children can go and still enjoy themselves. For grownups, it’s a different story. No matter what you are interested in, you can be sure that Almería has it. Unless you are looking for amusement parks and gigantic roller coasters, of course.

There are at least a dozen museums centred on the most varied topics, history lovers will be delighted with the rich culture and the deep Arabic roots in the area, and movie fans will have a blast at the cinematography’s house and go to visit the famous movie locations, and festivals can be enjoyed pretty much year-round.

And, of course, the beaches. There are so many beautiful beaches in Almería that to name them all would require hours. Like Monsul Beach, Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla, Playa de Los Muertos, Serena beach, Playa de lo Genovese, playa de Aguadulce, and many, many others. And if you ever get tired of the beaches, you can enjoy yourself in the river as well.

Playa Garrucha

In conclusion

Almería is a gorgeous place, surrounded by nature in its most beautiful expression, with dozens of landmarks to visit, so many that you probably couldn’t visit them all even if you tried. This is a paradise for those looking to get away, for those looking to put some distance between themselves and the stress of their daily lives, and for those looking to enjoy the rest of their lives in a very calm and relaxed manner.

Though, if you are looking for a great investment location instead, you are out of luck, and you probably will be better off putting your money somewhere else.

1. Best Professionals 2. Follow up 3. Competitive pricing 4. Partners 5. Qualitative Check

Costa de Almería Map information

• Airport: Almería
• Ave stations: –
• Cities: Almería (193,000 inhabitants), Roquetas del Mar (92,000), El Ejido (88,000 inhabitants), Adra (24,700 inhabitants), Vera (15,000 inhabitants),
  Berja (14,000 inhabitants), Almerimar (6,800 inhabitants)
• Unesco sites: Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada (1984,1994), Find all the UNESCO Sites in Spain on our page: “10 reasons why you should buy in Spain”
• Top beaches: Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla (Almería), Monsul Beach (San Jose), Playa de los Muertos (Carboneras), Serena Beach (Roquetas de Mar), Playa de los Genoveses (Cabo de Gata), Playa de Aguadulce (Aguadulce), Cala de Enmedio (Agua Amarga), El Playazo (Rodalquilar), Garrucha Playa (Garrucha), Playas de Vera (Vera), Cala del Plomo (Agua Amarga)
• Kids Parks : Oasys MiniHollywood (Almería), Fort Bravo Texas Hollywood (Tabernas)
• Shopping Malls & Outlets: Centro Comercial Mediterráneo (Almería), Gran Plaza Shopping Park (Roquetas de Mar)
• Traditional & Flea markets: –
• Top golf courses: La Envia, Alboran, Playa Macenas, Valle del Este Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
• Natural Parks: El Hondo, Parque Natural del Penyal d’Ifac, Parc Natural de la Marjal de Oliva-Pego, Sierra de Castril Natural Park, Sierra Nevada National Park, Parque Natural del Montgó, Parc Natural Ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera, Parc Natural De l’Albufera
• University: Universidad de Almería
• Hospitals: Hospital Torrecárdenas, Hospital Mediterráneo (Almería), Hospital de Poniente (Roquetas de Mar)

Read further on the Costa de Almería and Spain

1. TOURIST OFFICE:
   • Almería Tourist Office
2. AIRPORTS: All the Spanish Airports and flight info on the official site of AENA
3. TRAINS: Renfe website
4. BEACHES: Where will you find the top beaches in Spain?
5. GOLFS: Reread our Summer paper on the subject What are the top golf courses in Spain? Play with the best golf clubs sets in Spain thanks to our local partner.
6. KIDS PARKS: Our selection of the Top parks for children in Spain
7. MUST VISIT IN SPAIN: Our top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, Find all the Unesco sites in Spain

Find all our other articles and maps on the Spanish Costas:

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