Spain may enjoy plenty of modern popularity thanks to its golden sands, fiesta atmosphere, and gorgeous climate, but the roots of this ancient land run deep. Some of the most beautiful and memorable areas of Spain are located in the old towns of its most popular resorts and cities.

For a holiday that embraces all the fabulous elements of Spain, make sure you take time to visit some of Spain’s best old towns. Here are our favourites:

Costa Del Sol: Torremolinos old town

Torremolinos has earned a spot in many a holidaymaker’s heart thanks to its idyllic location on the Costa del Sol, stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. But this historic seaside resort has plenty of history etched into its stones.

Start at the main street of the town, Calle San Miguel, which crosses through the oldest centre plaza and is lined with every kind of shop imaginable. At one end of Calle San Miguel sits a small plaza dominated by the beautiful San Miguel church.

At the other end, you’ll find the Cuesta del Tajo, a traditional street ending with the Torre del Pimentel or Torre del los Molinos. This 12-meter-tall mud and brick construction, built in the 14th century, protected the town from pirate attacks and remains an iconic symbol of Torremolinos.

Past the Torre del Pimentel, you’ll come to a steep flight of ancient steps leading down to the historic fishing district, El Bajondillo. Peruse the local kiosks and sample the authentic seafood restaurants while you admire the stunning historic buildings that line Bajondillo beach.

Our Blue Sea Gran Cervantes resort is located near El Bajondillo beach, with many pockets of the old town right on your doorstep.

Mallorca: Palma old town

The capital of Mallorca and capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is an ancient city with plenty to offer.

The old town is home to many of the city’s top attractions: from ancient buildings to modern designer brands. Start with the real headliners, like the breath-taking La Seu Cathedral, with its striking sandstone gothic features and unique position overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Another must-see historical attraction is the majestic Royal Palace of Almudaina, the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family in the past. Almost as lovely is the Plaça Cort, Palma’s council building with its intricate façade and remarkable 600-year-old olive tree planted as an enduring symbol of peace.

Aside from the headline sites, many hours can be spent wandering the winding cobbled streets, through picturesque plazas and charming interior patios. Discover the town’s hidden treasures, from antique furniture stores to connoisseur bookshops and adorable coffee shops.

Both our Blue Sea Arenal Tower and Blue Sea Costa Verde resorts are just a short 15-minute drive from Palma’s old town.

Lanzarote old town

 

Lanzarote has no shortage of old town destinations. From the ancient city and former capital, Teguise, to the current capital, Arrecife, there are fantastic old town centres with cobbled winding streets, atmospheric plazas, seafront castles and stunning coastal views.

But if you visit just one old town in Lanzarote, make sure it’s Puerto del Carmen. A true example of an old town which has preserved its fishing village origins, Puerto del Carmen has retained its quaint, traditional houses, atmospheric plazas, old town harbour and authentic restaurants.

Then there’s the old town beach, Playa Chica, which offers peace and seclusion rare for such a popular resort. The Playa Chica diving centre makes it a hit for snorkelers and those looking to explore the deep blue, while also serving as an homage to the town’s enduring partnership with the sea.

Our Blue Sea Los Fiscos resort is situated just a short walk from Puerto Del Carmen’s old town, and provides the perfect base for a holiday that has a bit of everything.

Tenerife: old town

Like Lanzarote, Tenerife has plenty of stunning old towns on offer, but the one that stands out from the rest is La Laguna. A 15^th century city – the first ever established in Tenerife – La Laguna’s preservation of its old town buildings, culture and traditions, has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage site status.

Visitors can admire the stunning Real Santuario del Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna (an incredible Roman Catholic church), two palaces called Nava and Salazar, a 17^th century university, together with numerous churches, covenants and religious buildings.

Stop off at one of the picturesque old town plazas to enjoy a plate or two of tapas or explore the many shops and bars that have made the old town streets their home.

Our Blue Sea Costa Jardín & Spa, Blue Sea Puerto Resort and Blue Sea Interpalace resorts are all under half an hour’s drive from the La Laguna old town.