2 Best Performing Arts in Catalonia, Valencia, and the Costa Blanca, Spain

The coastal town of Benicàssim (86 km [53 miles] north of Valencia) is backed by dramatic mountains, and the Mediterranean laps long, sandy swimming beaches. Since the 1990s, the town has made a name for itself on the indie-music circuit, and thousands turn out for the annual Festival Internacional de Benicàssim in mid-July. Past headlining artists include Nick Cave, Björk, Arctic Monkeys, and Queens of the Stone Age.

Tarragona's center for music, dance, theater, and cultural events stages performances ranging from castellers (human-castle formations, usually performed in August and September) to folk dances.