"Happiness is a way of travel – not a destination". Many authors have echoed this idea, dedicating lines and verses to happiness, linking it with the journey itself and describing places that brought them joy.
To help you experience this as well, a recent study has identified the happiest towns in Spain for 2024, highlighting 35 locations known for their high quality of life and well-being. So, which towns hold the top five positions in this ranking?
This analysis, conducted by the consulting firm YouGov, involved the participation of over a thousand people who voted for their favourite towns based on various factors contributing to happiness.
Ronda
The poet Rainer Maria Rilke said, "I have searched everywhere for the city of my dreams, and found it here in Ronda... There is nothing more unexpected in Spain than this wild, mountainous city." And boy was he right.
This is one of the most emblematic cities in Andalusia and the province of Málaga. It is renowned for its stunning location on a deep gorge formed by the Guadalevín River, offering a spectacular landscape and a rich history that dates back to ancient times.
One of Ronda’s most iconic monuments is the Puente Nuevo, a feat of engineering built between 1751 and 1793. The bridge connects the two parts of the city and rises nearly 100 metres above the gorge. It is not only a symbol of Ronda but also a prime vantage point from which to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The city is also renowned for its Arab Baths, widely regarded as the best preserved in Europe. Dating back to the 13th century, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's Muslim past. Ronda’s old town, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, is lined with cobbled streets, charming squares and historic buildings, all of which invite visitors to explore its rich heritage.
According to idealista's price report, the average property price in Ronda is €1,356 per square metre, while the average rent in the area is €7.10 per square metre.
Nerja
On the Costa del Sol, Nerja is a charming town in Málaga that has evolved into a popular tourist destination while preserving its Andalusian character. Surrounded by mountains and stunning beaches, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Its name derives from the Arabic word "Narixa", meaning "abundant source", reflecting the town’s rich history that dates back to the Paleolithic era. Human remains have been discovered in the famous Nerja Caves, one of the region’s top tourist attractions.
Nerja's climate is another of its great attractions, with an average annual temperature of 20ºC, making it an ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities all year round. It is also worth noting that its beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for their quality and cleanliness, offering visitors a perfect environment to relax and practice water sports.
In addition to its natural beauty, the town is known for its vibrant cultural life. Local festivities, such as Carnival and Holy Week, reflect the warmth of the locals and their deep-rooted traditions.
According to idealista's price report, the average property price in Nerja is €3,433 per square metre, while the average rent in the area is €12.30 per square metre.
Chipiona
Andalusia is one of the Spanish regions where food plays a vital role, and Chipiona is a prime example. In the province of Cádiz, this charming coastal town is renowned for its rich history, beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.
On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, near the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, Chipiona enjoys a privileged position that provides a warm, sunny climate – perfect for relaxing on its extensive golden sand beaches.
One of the town’s main attractions is its iconic lighthouse, the tallest in Spain, built between 1863 and 1867. This landmark is not only a symbol of Chipiona but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Regla, the town’s patron saint, is a revered place of pilgrimage that draws many visitors each year.
Chipiona’s cuisine is another highlight, renowned for its fresh seafood dishes and the famous muscatel wine, produced in the region.
According to idealista's price report, the average property price in Chipiona is €2,204 per square metre, while the average rent in the area is €8.80 per square metre.
Tarifa
Known as the "Capital of the Wind", Tarifa is a town in the province of Cádiz, located just 14 kilometres from the African coast, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. This strategic location has made Tarifa a crossroads for various civilizations throughout history, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Arabs.
One of Tarifa’s most striking features is its stunning natural surroundings, including nearly 38 kilometres of fine sandy beaches, such as the renowned Playa de Los Lances, which are ideal for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Tarifa’s old town is another major attraction, with narrow, winding streets that preserve its historic charm. The Puerta de Jerez, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, along with the Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno. This 10th-century castle is steeped in history, famously linked to the heroic tale of its defender, who chose to sacrifice his son rather than surrender the fort.
Tarifa’s gastronomy is also noteworthy, offering a range of delicious seafood dishes, including the renowned almadraba bluefin tuna, traditionally caught in the region.
According to idealista's price report, the average property price in Tarifa is €3,676 per square metre, while the average rent in the area is €13.10 square metre.
Peñíscola
Peñíscola is a picturesque town on the northern coast of the province of Castellón, in the Valencian Community. It is renowned for its stunning castle and historic old town. This charming destination is situated on a tombolo, a geological formation that links the town to the mainland, giving it a distinctive character and exceptional natural beauty.
Peñíscola Castle, built between 1294 and 1307 by the Knights Templar, is one of the town's main attractions. This fortress, which once served as the residence of Pope Luna, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The town's history is shaped by the influence of notable figures, such as Pope Benedict XIII, who made Peñíscola his papal seat during the Western Schism.
Peñíscola’s old town is a maze of cobbled streets, charming squares and whitewashed houses that capture the essence of Mediterranean charm. The Plaza de Santa María, with its church of the same name, is a popular gathering spot and an ideal place to experience local life. The town’s 16th-century walls, built to defend against piracy, further enhance its distinctive character.
According to idealista's price report, the average proeprty price in Peñíscola is €1,850 per square metre, while the average rent in the area is €8.40 per square metre.
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