The 10 best towns in Spain for foreign buyers

Spain offers hundreds of towns — but only a handful truly stand out for foreign buyers. Here are the ten that repeatedly top the list, with a short rundown of what makes each one special.

1. Torrevieja (Costa Blanca)

Torrevieja has the largest Northern European expat community in all of Spain — with foreign shops, churches and social associations. Property prices are affordable, the climate is rated one of the healthiest in Europe by the WHO, and the town has an active year-round life.

2. Marbella (Costa del Sol)

Marbella is Spain's most exclusive coastal destination, with international schools, award-winning restaurants and an active social scene all year. Puerto Banús attracts a wealthy international segment, and the supply of luxury properties is greatest here.

3. Fuengirola (Costa del Sol)

Fuengirola is one of the most internationally Northern European-friendly towns on the Costa del Sol — with shops, a church and an established network catering to Northern Europeans. Prices are markedly lower than in Marbella, and the infrastructure is excellent, with a train directly to Málaga city centre.

4. Alicante (Costa Blanca)

Alicante is a real city with all the benefits of city life — an international airport, universities, a modern hospital and a vibrant centre. Property prices are lower than in many tourist towns, which has made Alicante popular with both retirees and working professionals.

5. Nerja (Costa del Sol)

Nerja is an authentic, smaller coastal town east of Málaga with an international community and beautiful cliff coastlines. Many choose Nerja for its calmer atmosphere compared with the bigger tourist towns.

6. Estepona (Costa del Sol)

Estepona has grown markedly in recent years and is now one of the Costa del Sol's most attractive towns for buyers — with a charming whitewashed old town, lower prices than Marbella and strong municipal investment in beautification and infrastructure.

7. Jávea (Costa Blanca)

Jávea (Xàbia) is a calm, scenic town in the northern part of the Costa Blanca with a high proportion of international residents. Rocky beaches, beautiful nature and a village feel make it a favourite for those seeking something more relaxed.

8. Benidorm (Costa Blanca)

Benidorm is the tourists' town — but behind the facade there is an active year-round scene with low property prices and excellent infrastructure. Particularly attractive for those who want an active social life and plenty within walking distance.

9. Málaga (Costa del Sol)

Málaga is rapidly transforming from a transit city into one of Europe's most attractive cities — with a flourishing cultural scene, a growing tech scene and lower property prices than many coastal towns despite the benefits of city life. Popular with younger buyers.

10. Calpe (Costa Blanca)

Calpe is dominated by the iconic rock of Peñón de Ifach and has a calm, international feel with a good supply of properties at every price point. A natural base for those who want to experience the northern Costa Blanca.

Not sure which town suits you best? See our comparison of the Costa del Sol vs. Costa Blanca or contact us for a no-obligation chat about what you are looking for.

Frequently asked questions about towns in Spain

Which town is cheapest to live in?

Torrevieja and Benidorm are generally the cheapest of the popular expat towns, followed by Fuengirola and Estepona. Marbella is clearly the most expensive.

Which town suits retirees best?

Torrevieja and Fuengirola have the largest and most established international retiree communities, with a rich offering of social activities and practical infrastructure aimed at this group.

Can you live in one of these towns without speaking Spanish?

Yes — in all ten towns there is an international environment that makes it possible to get by in English day to day. Torrevieja and Fuengirola are particularly easy, as there are shops and services catering specifically to Northern Europeans.

Costa del Sol vs. Costa Blanca contact us