Spain, a country rich in geographical and cultural diversity, is home to some of the largest provinces in Europe. There are a total of 50 provinces, each with its own landscapes, culture and customs.
But do you know which are the largest provinces in Spain? Several regions stand out for their size. Discover which ones they are.
Badajoz
Badajoz, located in the south of Extremadura, is the largest province in Spain by area. Covering more than 21,000 square kilometres (larger than Israel or El Salvador), it is characterised by its vast plains and a continental Mediterranean climate.
Historically, Badajoz has been a strategic location due to its proximity to Portugal, leaving a lasting cultural legacy in its monuments and traditions. Notably, the province’s capital, Badajoz, is just a few kilometres from the Portuguese border, while Mérida, the capital of Extremadura, is famed for its Roman heritage.
Cáceres
Cáceres, the other province of Extremadura, ranks second, notable for its vast territorial expanse of over 19,000 square kilometres. This province is celebrated for its historical and cultural heritage. Its capital boasts an old town that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other cities, such as Plasencia and Navalmoral de la Mata, also stand out, along with the region’s remarkable landscape biodiversity.
Ciudad Real
Ciudad Real, located in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha, is the third-largest province in terms of territorial size. With an area of around 19,000 square kilometres, it is known for its vast plains and rich agricultural tradition. The province is famous for its wine production, being part of the well-known La Mancha wine region, where some of the most highly regarded wines in the country are produced.
Zaragoza
Zaragoza is located in the autonomous community of Aragón. With an area of over 17,000 square kilometres, this province, crossed by the Ebro River, is characterised by its geographical diversity and rich cultural history. The city of Zaragoza, the provincial capital, is a key economic and cultural centre, renowned for its architectural heritage, including the famous Basilica del Pilar and the Aljafería Palace.
Cuenca
Cuenca, located in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha, is another of Spain's largest provinces, covering an area of more than 17,000 square kilometres. The province is famous for its mountainous landscape and historical heritage, particularly its old town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is the smallest province in Spain?
The smallest province in Spain is Guipúzcoa. Located in the Basque Country, it covers an area of approximately 1,980 square kilometres. Despite its small size, the province is known for its rich culture, world-famous gastronomy and stunning natural landscapes.
Its capital, San Sebastián, is famous for La Concha beach and its prestigious international film festival. Guipúzcoa also boasts a rich culinary tradition and is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants.
Least populated provinces in Spain
At the other end of the spectrum are Spain’s sparsely populated provinces. These predominantly rural areas offer a markedly different pace of life compared to the big cities. Soria, in Castile and León, is the least populated province in the country, being the only one in Spain with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants.
Following Soria is Teruel, with around 135,000 inhabitants. The Castilian-Leonese provinces of Segovia, Palencia and Ávila also rank among the most depopulated regions in Spain.
The 10 most visited cities in Spain in 2024
Spain attracts millions of tourists annually, drawn by its rich history, vibrant culture and diverse landscapes. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees, every region offers a unique experience. But which Spanish cities are the most popular among visitors?
Overtourism hotspots to sidestep in Spain and what to choose instead
Overtourism is biting in parts of Spain—crowded old towns, housing pressure, and cruise‑day crushes have stirred local pushback. The calmer route away from overtourism hotspots is smart place‑and‑timing. Consider secondary cities or inland villages 10–20 km inland, with bases a few streets back, licensed accommodation, and small courtesies that go a long way.
Hidden‑gem beaches in Spain worth the effort: secret shores, coves and tips
If you’re after hidden‑gem beaches in Spain worth the effort, picture protected coves with capped numbers, scant services and fragile dunes. These sandy stretches are often reached via steep footpaths, boardwalks or limited ferries with permits.
Mallorca’s secret cove: crystal waters, snorkelling, and pure bliss
If you’re seeking a picturesque cove for diving or snorkelling, Cala Fornells is an ideal choice. Nestled on Mallorca’s southwest coast, in the heart of the so-called “virtuous triangle,” this petite 80-metre beach enchants visitors with its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters and natural setting shaded by pine trees.
Authentic alternatives to Spain’s tourist resorts
For authentic alternatives to Spain’s tourist resorts, think compact old towns, protected coasts and mountain parks with capped development. Shoulder‑season, mid‑week trips and rail or bus links usually keep things calmer and cheaper. Explore beaches backed by dunes or cliffs, towns with pedestrian cores, and destinations a touch further from major airports tend to stay relaxed.
Unique things to do in Mallorca; for free, with kids and at night
Palma de Mallorca is easy to settle into. It has a compact Old Town, a palm-lined seafront and a gentle coastal pace. For things to do in Palma de Mallorca, start with free plans—courtyard peeks, harbour viewpoints and long waterfront walks. Families have it simple too, with sandy beaches, shaded parks and quick culture stops that don’t drag. And as night falls, enjoy low-lit lanes, vermouth bars and waterside terraces once the heat lifts and you've covered the main things to do in Palma.
Things to do in Palma de Mallorca: sunlit strolls and secret patios
Palma de Mallorca packs a lot into its sunlit bay: Gothic drama at La Seu, honeyed lanes in the Old Town, breezy waterfront strolls, and hilltop views from Bellver Castle. For things to do in Palma de Mallorca, think courtyard-hopping, contemporary art, and market bites, with beach time never far away.