Spain not only charms tourists from all over the world with its climate, its cuisine and its beaches, it has also won the hearts of directors and producers of some of the best-known series in recent years. Why? Because it boasts spectacular natural landscapes, cities full of history, charming villages and architecture that seems to be from another era. All this makes Spain the perfect set, be it for a modern-day drama or an epic story from the past.
So, if you’re one of those people who get hooked on a series and then dream about the places where it was filmed... take note. Here are eight places in Spain that have appeared in famous series, which you can visit, explore and enjoy. And if you want the full experience, staying at a nearby Parador guarantees good food, relaxation and a charming break.
Sevilla
Who doesn’t recognise Seville’s spectacular Plaza de España? It appears in Money Heist, Star Wars and The Crown and is just one of the many Seville settings that have appeared on screen. The Torre del Oro and Seville Cathedral are also among the most recurrent locations on the film scene.
What to say about Seville? This city oozes history, art and life from every corner. It is a natural film set, with historic architecture, cobbled streets and a unique light that enhances every spot. The city has been chosen for filming series and movies thanks to its rich heritage and its ability to transport us to different eras.
If you fancy sleeping in a place that transports you back in time, the Parador de Carmona, located in an ancient Moorish fortress with breathtaking views, is a real gem. You’ll step into your own fiction.
The Dunes of Maspalomas
Are you a fan of fantasy worlds? Then you must be familiar with the desert landscape where Geralt of Rivia rides in The Witcher. It was filmed at the the Maspalomas Dunes, in Gran Canaria, a natural environment that looks like it’s straight out of another planet, but it’s just a flight away.
This island is a film paradise with a variety of landscapes ranging from golden beaches to volcanic mountains, allowing for multiple scenarios to be recreated without leaving the island. Its stable climate, with an average temperature of 22ºC and more than 4,800 hours of daylight per year, facilitates efficient filming. It is no coincidence that it has been chosen for filming major productions.
And for writing your own series, the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, in the heart of the island, is ideal: tranquillity, good food and breathtaking views.
BOOKING AT PARADOR DE CRUZ DE TEJEDA
El Hierro
The series Hierro takes us to this Canary Island, and we assure you that after watching it... you will want to visit. In the series, places like El Golfo Valley, La Restinga and Verodal beach become the setting for a story of crime, mystery and a lot of character.
El Hierro is a unique film set, with volcanic landscapes, impressive cliffs and an atmosphere that conveys mystery and beauty. Its isolation and authenticity make it an ideal location for filming when you are seeking a unique aesthetic and a deep connection with nature.
And the Parador de El Hierro, in the Las Playas area, does indeed feature in several key moments. Sleeping where the main characters stayed and waking up facing the sea is an unforgettable experience.
BOOKING AT PARADOR DE EL HIERRO
Lastres
In the north of Spain, greenery and enigmas go hand in hand. In Doctor Mateo, the legendary Antena 3 series, the fishing village of Lastres and other Asturian landscapes such as the beach of San Pedro de la Ribera or the Redes Natural Park are the backdrop to an intense story.
Asturias is a natural film set with an impressive variety of landscapes: from rugged mountains to wild beaches, lush forests and charming villages. Moreover, the Principality boasts the Asturias Natural Paradise Film Commission, which facilitates filming with logistical support and permits, making it an ideal destination for filmmakers seeking authenticity and cinematic beauty.
If you feel like discovering this authentic area, the Parador de Gijón, will allow you to relax and enjoy some amazing Asturian dishes.
Cedeira y Ferrol
Galicia never disappoints and in the series Rapa it shines like never before. From the cliffs of the Serra da Capelada and the village of San Andrés de Teixido to the old town of Ferrol, full of history and charm, this series combines intrigue and landscape in equal parts.
Ferrol is a city with a strong visual identity. Its naval architecture, historic streets and Atlantic coastline have been the backdrop for major productions. Moreover, its connection with the maritime world makes it a perfect location for mystery, drama and action stories.
To live this Galician experience as it should be lived, the Parador de Ferrol, right in the centre, is an ideal starting point to discover the sea, the mountains and a cuisine that comforts body and soul.
Rías Baixas
The Rías Baixas are pure cinema (and series). In Vivir sin permiso, we discover places like O Salnés, and in Un asunto privado, the old town of Vigo.
Pontevedra is a city with a special cinematographic charm, where the historic architecture and welcoming atmosphere create a perfect setting for filming. Its old town, with its cobbled streets and iconic squares such as Praza da Ferrería, have been used in some productions such as The Gardener, the Netflix series that used locations such as Santa Clara and the Pazo de Lourizán.
If you want to explore all these landscapes at your leisure, the Parador de Pontevedra, which lies right in the historic centre, is the ideal place to sleep among charming walls and eat like a marquis.
BOOKING AT PARADOR DE PONTEVEDRA
Pedraza
The small town of Pedraza, in Segovia, seems to have stopped in time. That is why it is perfect for Spanish series such as 30 Coins by Álex de la Iglesia or historical series such as Isabel and Águila Roja. Its castle, its Plaza Mayor and its cobbled streets have a special magnetism.
Pedraza, a medieval village in the province of Segovia, is an authentic film set that has captivated filmmakers with its unique atmosphere and aesthetics from another era. Its cobbled streets, imposing 13th century castle and main square provide the perfect backdrop. About 35 km away is Segovia which, with its majestic aqueduct and fairytale Alcazar, complements the essence of Pedraza, offering a contrast between monumental grandeur and rural charm.
To round off the medieval experience, the Parador de Segovia offers panoramic views of the city and a heated swimming pool with a glass wall where you can swim and enjoy the surprising surroundings.
Valencia
The Spanish series El embarcadero shows us the most natural side of Valencia: the Albufera Natural Park, the village of El Palmar and the El Saler beach. But if you are more into science fiction, you will know that Westworld chose the City of Arts and Sciences as a futuristic setting.
Valencia is a vibrant film set, where modernity and history intertwine to offer a unique aesthetic. The City of Arts and Sciences, with its futuristic architecture, has been chosen for top tier filming, establishing itself as an ideal destination for science fiction stories and imaginary worlds. It also has other more coastal and inland areas with plenty of wildlife, such as El Saler, an enclave that offers a unique light and landscapes that can be adapted to multiple film genres, from drama to romance.
In both cases, the Parador de El Saler, which is set between dunes and pine trees, is a great refuge to rest, enjoy the local cuisine and play golf if you feel like it.
