Are you looking to escape this summer to somewhere affordable and luxurious, but just a short distance from home? Why not try exploring a different side of Spain; visiting places far off the beaten track and not laden with tacky presents and sunburnt British faces?

Fortunately, when it comes to cheap holidays Spain is arguably the market leader; there may even be the chance of bumping into your neighbour over a glass of sangria or two.

There are manyareas of Spain and quirky things to do that are yet to be swallowed up by mass-market tourism. It is worth your while to remember that unusual and non-tourist attractions are occasionally in areas that do not receive many British tourists; so it might be a good idea to brush up on your Spanish.

Why not visit one of the 70 bull rings Andalucía is famous for? Hailed as the national sport of Spain, the sacrifice of the bull dates back to prehistoric times. Watch the matador entertain the crowds and feel the excitement as you watch the fight take place. Although often viewed as cruel, bull fighting is still a revered national pastime.

For those who want a glimpse at the real Spain, a visit to the Fabrica Real de Tapices (the Royal Tapestry Factory) is a great choice. Tours are usually presented in Spanish, and visitors are able to watch people make woven rugs and tapestries, offering a great insight into the history of handmade produce in the region.

Escaping the crowds of tourists does not mean that you cannot visit the big cities of Spain such as Madrid and Barcelona; it does mean that pre-holiday planning needs to be detailed and more considered. For example, those heading to Barcelona should consider joining the locals and seeking solace in Gracia.

Gracia is approximately one kilometre north of the hustle and bustle of central Barcelona and offers a convivial atmosphere, with local residents coming here to escape the tourist-laden streets of the city centre. Watch the locals go about their daily business on one of the many public squares while enjoying a fresh coffee amid stunning architecture. For breathtaking scenery, enjoy panoramic views of the city at Guell Park; from the top of the hill you’ll be able to soak up the city and escape the crowds who tend to gather around the sculptures below.  

For those looking for a balance of ‘touristy’ excursions and beaches, combined with peace and quiet, easyJet holidays in Alcudia ticks all the right boxes. Holidays in this region can be spent exploring the old town and the northern regions of the mountainous Manresa and La Victoria. Frolic in and around the beautiful marina near the residential area of Bonaire, where you can watch the abundant marine life as you relax.

Alternatively, head to Puerto Alcudia and to the main promenade and bustling local streets, where there are plenty of options for dining and entertainment. This area draws holidaymakers from all over the world and offers a faster pace for a busier Spanish experience.

Spain is well known for its festivals, which see communities come together and take part in historic rituals, such as the running of the bulls in Pamplona or La Tomatina, the world’s biggest tomato fight which takes place each year in Bunyol, near Valencia. Are you brave enough to join the locals as you throw vegetables at each other in this annual friendly food fight? Several other Spanish towns continue the tradition by tossing wine, water and, more bizarrely, ants and even dead rats.

Information on many unusual places and attractions can be found online and in the travel section of your local bookshop. Chat to friends who have visited Spain and ask them for tips on where to go and what to see as part of your Spanish holidays 2011, so that you get to see a different and more exotic side to this warm and welcoming country.