Everything you Need to Know About the Spanish Regions
Cultural variations among the different regions of a country isn’t news to anyone. You see it pretty much everywhere, from the strong differences between the east and west coast of the States, England’s well known regional dialects, or Colombia’s strong geographical lines and identities.
So, with this being the case, Why single out Spain in this piece? Well, in this Iberian country’s case, these regional distinctions go well beyond just the culture. With all of the previous examples, you could ask someone from Yorkshire, Liverpool, London or Cornwall what they identify as, and they’d all probably say “English”; that’s not the case at all with Spain. As we’ve mentioned previously with our guide on Bilbao and Valencia, there’s no quicker way to offend a Basque or Catalan than to call them Spanish.
So, to help you navigate this awkwardness, and learn a bit about what each region of Spain offers you as a remote work location, we’ve put together this little guide. Small caveat before we start, this is by no means a comprehensive or objective guideline, as with anything related to culture and society, there will be blurry lines everywhere, nonetheless, this is the nutshell version that will come in more than handy if you’re looking to integrate yourself into Spanish life.
A Quick Breakdown of the Spanish Regions
The nation that we call Spain is made up of several different, and often conflicting, historical backgrounds that gives each region a very distinct feel. As we explore Spain's main regions, we'll look at what makes each one unique. From Madrid's international-city energy to Andalusia's laid back lifestyle, and Galicia's humble green landscapes, each area offers something unique.
We'll discuss major cities, local languages, and cultural highlights to give you a clear picture of each region's identity. Keep in mind that these regions aren't one-to-one with Spain’s Autonomous Communities (think of them as states), it’s rather a cultural comparison, similar to how you’d bunch Texas, Alabama and Georgia into the American “South”.
Madrid/Castille
Landmark City: Madrid, Salamanca, León
Demonym: Madrileño/a, Castilian (Castizo)
Cultural Differences:
Madrid is a fusion of traditional Spanish culture and international modernity.
The wider Castille region is characterized by historic towns that maintain a deep connection to Spanish heritage.
Historical Background: As Spain’s capital and seat of the monarchy, Madrid along with Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León, has been central to Spain's historical and political development.
Nomad Friendliness: 7/10
Characteristics of Madrid/Castille:
Madrid offers a mix of cultural activities, endless dining options, and an active nightlife, it’s a magnet to those looking for an energetic metropolitan environment. In contrast, the historic regions of Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León provide a slower pace of life with deep-rooted traditions, like the iconic windmills in La Mancha and the ancient universities in Salamanca (The 7th oldest in the world).
Madrid’s infrastructure supports a strong remote work culture with numerous coworking spaces and excellent public transport, but the cost of living is on the higher side. The rural areas of Castilla offer a quieter lifestyle with lower living costs but fewer amenities. This balance gives you options to choose from based on their preference for city life or a more relaxed rural setting. The rating accounts for Madrid's robust remote working facilities against the higher living expenses and the less accessible, though charming, rural settings.
The South (Andalusia, Extremadura, etc.)
Landmark Cities: Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Málaga (Andalusia); Mérida, Badajoz (Extremadura)
Demonym: Andalusian, Extremaduran
Cultural Differences:
Andalusia is celebrated for its flamenco culture, Moorish architecture, and wonderful festivals like the Feria de Abril in Seville.
Extremadura is known for its Roman heritage and more laid-back rural lifestyle, with a strong emphasis on natural beauty and historical sites.
Historical Background: Andalusia has a rich Moorish history visible in its architecture, such as the Alhambra in Granada and the Mezquita in Córdoba. Extremadura was a significant Roman province, home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Europe, like those in Mérida.
Nomad Friendliness: 6/10
Characteristics of The South:
The southern regions of Spain offer a distinct experience rooted in history and tradition. Andalusia's lively atmosphere is infused with the legacy of its Moorish past and a deep passion for its cultural expressions, making it a lively and fun place to live. Extremadura, while quieter, provides a peaceful retreat in settings that resonate with centuries of history from Roman times, offering a stark contrast to the bustling Andalusian cities.
Both regions boast a warm climate year-round, which appeals to those who prefer sunshine and mild winters. However, the remote work infrastructure in these areas can vary significantly. While cities like Seville and Málaga offer reliable internet and several coworking spaces, more rural areas might lack these facilities. The overall cost of living is lower than in Madrid and Barcelona, making these regions attractive for those seeking a more affordable Spanish experience. The nomad friendliness rating reflects the balance between cultural richness and the practical aspects of remote working, acknowledging the limited amenities in rural parts but excellent conditions in larger cities.
Valencia
Landmark Cities: Valencia
Demonym: Valencian
Cultural Differences: Known for its Fallas Festival and its rich tradition of ceramics and craftsmanship, Valencia blends a Mediterranean lifestyle with vibrant cultural expressions. The city is also famed for its architectural beauty and innovation, such as the City of Arts and Sciences.
Historical Background: Valencia has a complex history marked by Roman and Arabic influences, evident in its architecture and cultural practices. It was also a major economic hub during the Spanish empire due to its port.
Nomad Friendliness: 8/10
Characteristics of Valencia:
Valencia offers a unique blend of history, innovation, and lifestyle. As the third-largest city in Spain, it provides all the amenities a digital nomad could need, including an array of coworking spaces and a robust tech scene. The city's extensive parks and beaches offer a balance of urban life and nature, appealing to those who value outdoor activities alongside work.
The region's Mediterranean climate features mild winters and warm summers, ideal for enjoying its extensive beaches and outdoor dining culture. Valencia's local economy is diverse, with strong sectors in agriculture, technology, and tourism, providing numerous opportunities for professional engagement and cultural immersion. The high nomad friendliness rating is due to its welcoming community, excellent infrastructure, and the high quality of life, making it a top choice for remote workers seeking a vibrant, yet relaxed environment to base their operations.
Catalunya
Landmark Cities: Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona
Demonym: Catalan
Cultural Differences: Catalunya is distinct within Spain for its strong regional identity, including its own language (Catalan) and a rich tradition of visual arts, architecture, and music. The region's push for independence has also been a significant part of its recent history, reflecting a deep sense of nationalism.
Historical Background: Catalunya has a history of being a major maritime power and commercial hub in the Mediterranean. Its capital, Barcelona, has been home to many artistic movements, notably modernism.
Nomad Friendliness: 7/10
Characteristics of Catalunya:
Catalunya is a busy region that combines urban development with cultural heritage, particularly in Barcelona, where the architectural works of Antoni Gaudí and the city’s cultural scene are major attractions. The region's strong economy, centered around technology, finance, and manufacturing, provides ample opportunities for remote workers in various sectors.
Despite occasional political unrest related to independence movements, Catalunya remains a popular destination for digital nomads, offering a supportive environment with numerous coworking spaces and an international community. The climate is Mediterranean, providing mild winters and warm summers, perfect for enjoying both the urban and coastal landscapes. The rating reflects the excellent cultural and professional opportunities, although it's wise for newcomers to be aware of the political context which can influence the social and economic environment.
This detailed look at Catalunya showcases why it's not just a significant cultural and economic center in Spain but also a good choice for remote workers seeking a culturally rich base.
The Basque Country
Landmark Cities: Bilbao, San Sebastián, Vitoria-Gasteiz
Demonym: Basque
Cultural Differences: The Basque Country is distinct for its unique language (Euskara), robust cultural traditions such as Basque pelota and rural sports, and a rich culinary heritage, notably its pintxos and high-quality seafood. The region maintains a strong sense of local pride and significant autonomy.
Historical Background: Historically isolated by its rugged geography, the Basque Country has a deep maritime history and was an early leader in Spain's industrialization.
Nomad Friendliness: 8/10
Characteristics of The Basque Country:
The Basque Country combines tradition with contemporary development. Bilbao, for example, has transformed into a cultural hub with the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao boosting both local and international interest. The region's grand industrial base and advanced technological landscape offer plenty of professional opportunities, especially in engineering and manufacturing.
The climate here is oceanic, characterized by mild, moist winters and cool summers—ideal for those who enjoy cooler weather. This blend of cultural depth and modern innovation makes the Basque Country an attractive destination for digital nomads seeking a distinctive cultural environment along with a supportive work setting. The high nomad friendliness score reflects the region's solid infrastructure, inclusive community, and the enriching cultural experiences available to residents and visitors.
Galicia
Landmark Cities: Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Vigo
Demonym: Galician
Cultural Differences: Galicia is known for its Celtic heritage, which is evident in its music, folklore, and festivals. The region has a distinct language, Galician, that shares roots with Portuguese. Its rugged coastline and green landscapes give it a mystical and remote feel, which is definitely reflected in the local lifestyle.
Historical Background: Galicia's history is deeply intertwined with Celtic and Roman influences, and it has been a significant endpoint for the Christian pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago. This historical route has shaped much of the region's cultural and spiritual identity over the centuries.
Nomad Friendliness: 6/10
Characteristics of Galicia:
Galicia offers a unique setting that differs markedly from other Spanish regions. Its remote and lush landscapes are complemented by a cooler, more humid climate that can be a refreshing change from the typically dry conditions found in much of Spain. The region’s economy is primarily based on fishing, agriculture, and tourism, which offers a different professional landscape for those interested in these sectors.
For digital nomads, Galicia presents a slower-paced environment ideal for those seeking solitude or inspiration from nature. While the infrastructure for remote working is growing, it might not yet match the facilities found in larger Spanish cities. However, the increasing availability of coworking spaces in major cities like Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña is improving its appeal to remote workers. The nomad friendliness score considers the region's quieter lifestyle and emerging support structures for digital work, making it suitable for those who value peace and cultural richness.
Conclusion and why this matters for remote workers and digital nomads
We've detailed the diverse regions of Spain, each offering unique cultural and practical benefits for remote workers and digital nomads. Knowing the distinct features of these areas helps in selecting a place that aligns with both your work requirements and lifestyle choices. Whether your preference is for a bustling city, a region steeped in tradition, or a quieter, scenic area, Spain offers varied settings to match different needs.
For further guidance on living and working in Spain, check out Urban Hideout's comprehensive guides. These resources provide essential advice on adapting to local cultures and navigating logistical aspects. Stay connected with updates and community insights by following Urban Hideout on Instagram.
