Where to Buy Property in Spain? Popular Areas for Swedes

Spain is one of the most popular countries for Swedes looking to buy a holiday home or move permanently. But the country is large, and the differences between the regions are greater than many people think, in terms of climate, price level, taxes and everyday life.

Here we go through some areas that are popular with Swedes, what sets them apart and what to consider when choosing where to buy property in Spain.

Start With How You Will Use the Property

The best area depends more on how you plan to use the property than on where it is most beautiful. Consider:

• Will you live there all year round or a few weeks a year?
• Do you want to rent out the property when you are not using it?
• How important are direct flights and a short journey from Sweden?
• Do you want Swedish services and other Swedes around you, or would you rather have a more Spanish everyday life?

Costa Blanca – Popular with Swedish Buyers

The Costa Blanca in the Valencia region is a popular area among Swedes who want to buy property in Spain. The coast stretches along the province of Alicante, and Alicante airport has direct flights from several Swedish cities.

Around Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa there are towns such as La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Punta Prima and La Mata, with beaches, golf courses and a wide range of both apartments and townhouses. There is also an established Swedish and Scandinavian presence here.

Prices are generally lower than on the Costa del Sol, which makes the area attractive to many different types of buyers.

→ See our agents and offices in Spain

Costa del Sol – Year-Round Living and a Wide Selection

The Costa del Sol lies in Andalusia, along the Mediterranean coast around Málaga. Málaga airport is one of the largest in Spain, and towns such as Fuengirola, Marbella and Estepona have long been popular with Swedes.

Areas such as Nerja, Fuengirola, Marbella and Estepona offer different types of living environments, from lively coastal towns to quieter residential areas. Here you will find beaches, golf courses and a wide range of properties, among other things.

Prices are generally higher than on the Costa Blanca, but on the other hand the transfer tax on purchases of existing properties is lower in Andalusia.

→ See our agents and offices in Spain

The Canary Islands – Warmth All Year Round

Gran Canaria and Tenerife attract people with a mild climate all year and are particularly popular with those who want to spend the winter there. The flight is longer than to the mainland, and the supply of properties is more limited in the most sought-after areas.

Tax Differences Between the Regions

The transfer tax on the purchase of an existing property differs between Spain's regions. From 1 June 2026, the following general tax rates apply to purchases of existing properties:

• Costa Blanca (Valencia region): 9%
• Costa del Sol (Andalusia): 7%

The tax rates refer to purchases of existing properties and may vary depending on the value of the property and the buyer's circumstances. Always check which taxes and fees apply to the specific property.

→ Read more: Costs When Buying Property in Spain

What Else Should You Consider?

• Season. Some coastal towns are lively in summer but much quieter in winter. If you plan to live there all year round, it is wise to visit the area in the low season too.
• Renting out. The rules for holiday rentals can differ between regions and municipalities. If you plan to rent out the property, check which rules apply to it.
• Distance to the airport, healthcare and services. What seems unimportant on holiday becomes more important when you stay there for longer periods.

Which Area Suits You?

If you are looking for a wide range of properties and areas with a Swedish and Scandinavian presence:

• Costa Blanca, for example Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa

If you want an active life all year round, close to beaches, restaurants and entertainment:

• Costa del Sol, for example Nerja, Estepona, Marbella and Fuengirola

If you mainly want to spend the winter somewhere warm:

• The Canary Islands

Want to know more about a specific area? Notar has several offices on the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol, with agents who know their local area well and can help you find a property that suits your wishes.