Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe and a favourite expat location. Pensioners are often attracted to the country's high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and warm climate.

Living in some parts of Spain can be significantly cheaper than in the UK, and the Mediterranean country also offers an outdoor-oriented lifestyle and delicious cuisine. According to the Global Peace Index, Spain ranked 32nd among the world's safest countries. Spanish property site Idealista recently named the 10 safest cities and towns to visit or relocate to in 2026. Another recent study revealed the UK's safest towns.

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Located on the southeast coast, Orihuela is a lovely place with beautiful beaches. Orihuela is safe, family-friendly and a very popular town for pensioners and expats.

Arona is one of Tenerife's holiday hotspots, offering travellers golden sand beaches and traditional Canarian architecture.

Zaragoza is one of the safest cities to explore in Spain, with "an overall crime score of 13.89, which is considered very low," according to Travel Safe-Abroad.

San Sebastian offers "an incredible quality of life, blending breathtaking natural scenery with a sophisticated but relaxed urban atmosphere," according to Idealista.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is considered a very safe place for tourists and expats. On Reddit, a local said: "It is generally very safe. Just be responsible and aware of what you are doing. I've lived all my life in Las Palmas, and I've never been mugged or assaulted in my entire life. I probably speak for the vast majority of locals."

Pontevedra, located on the Atlantic coast of southwest Spain, is considered one of the most architecturally important cities in the region, boasting beautiful squares and cobblestoned streets.

An expat living in Ourense said on Facebook: "We're in our mid-50s and love the quality of life we find there. Highly recommend it, especially if you're into hiking, gorgeous beaches and amazing food."

Palencia has a security index of 37%, higher than the Spanish average. Idealista said: "There are low statistics on street accidents for cars and pedestrians alike because most of the city is built to be comfortably crossed by foot."

San Cristobal de la Laguna, in Tenerife, is one of the safest towns. "This city is protected by UNESCO and holds over 30,000 university students who respect and care for it."

The beautiful medieval town of Albacete has been named the safest city in Spain by UNESPA due to its low rates of robberies, fires, and traffic accidents. Idealista said: "The city is surrounded by highlands and crystalline lakes. Many here choose to explore the neighbouring villages and feast on regional delicacies like the migas and gazpacho manchego."