There are places that don't appear on lists of must-see destinations, or simply don't get the attention they deserve. That's why, this December bank holiday weekend, we're inviting you to step off the beaten track and discover five cities where heritage, gastronomy and their surroundings come together to create a getaway you'll remember.

Salvador Dalí has made art lovers around the world dream of Figueres. This is his city, where he was born, grew up and created. Visiting it means stepping into the artist's surrealist universe at the Theatre-Museum he designed himself, or discovering what his early years were like at his Birthplace. But Figueres is about much more than Dalí. You'll find proof of this on La Rambla, with its Modernist buildings and lively terraces; in the streets of the historic centre; or at Sant Ferran Castle, an enormous 18th-century fortress.

When it's time to sit down for a meal, ask for fish suquet, a traditional Catalan fish stew, and don't leave without a box of carquinyolis from Forn La Barceloneta. And the extra treat for your getaway? Located in the heart of Alt Empordà, Figueres is ideally placed for exploring Peralada, Cadaqués and the landscapes of Cap de Creus Natural Park.

Where to stay: Sercotel President

Ciudad Real has plenty of reasons to earn a place on your list of destinations yet to discover. And plenty more to make you want to tick it off once you've finally visited. Its heritage takes you from the Middle Ages to the present day without barely leaving the city centre: Santa María del Prado Cathedral and the churches of San Pedro and Santiago are among the essential stops.

From its rose windows, vaulted ceilings and coffered ceilings, simply wander over to Plaza Mayor to find the neo-Gothic style of the Town Hall and wait for the hours to strike. Yes, you'll also find the carillon clock at Casa del Arco, with its figures of Cervantes, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. We recommend delving deeper into Ciudad Real's Quixote heritage with a visit to the Quixote Museum and, naturally, making time to ‘enjoy the local food scene’: ask for duelos y quebrantos, a traditional dish associated with Don Quixote. Our final tip is just 8 kilometres from the city centre, at the Alarcos Archaeological Park. The perfect place to discover where it all began around here.

Where to stay: Sercotel Guadiana

Orihuela's historic centre can be explored from one monumental landmark to the next. From the Cathedral of the Saviour and Saint Mary to the Bishop's Palace. From the Church of Saints Justa and Rufina to Santo Domingo College. And don't forget to venture a little further from the centre and climb Mount San Miguel, walking among the remains of its old castle and city walls. One name is essential on any visit to this Alicante city: Miguel Hernández. The poet was born here, and his memory lives on in places such as his House Museum and the San Isidro neighbourhood, which has been transformed into an open-air gallery of murals inspired by his life and work.

Orihuela lies in the Vega Baja region, home to a fertile agricultural area that supplies local restaurants with fresh produce. These restaurants also turn to the sea for ingredients for some of the area's essential dishes, such as arroz con costra, rice with vegetables and anchovies, or cocido con pelotas. And speaking of the sea, the perfect finishing touch to this getaway is a trip to the coast, around 40 minutes by car, where you can enjoy a stroll beside the Mediterranean at places such as the Cabo Roig Blue Trail: Cala Capitán - La Caleta.

Where to stay: Sercotel Palacio de Tudemir

More than a thousand years of history give you plenty to discover. In Badajoz, for example, you'll find an impressive Moorish Alcazaba overlooking the city from above. It's just the beginning of a monumental route that takes you to Plaza Alta, with its distinctive red-and-white façades; the Espantaperros Tower; Saint John the Baptist Cathedral; and La Giralda, a building that will inevitably make you think of Seville.

When it's time to recharge your batteries, there's nothing better than trying the local cuisine, with Iberian ham, meat from the dehesa, traditional stews and Ribera del Guadiana wines. You'll need the energy, because afterwards we recommend taking advantage of how close Portugal is and visiting Elvas, a beautiful city whose fortified complex has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where to stay: Sercotel Gran Hotel Zurbarán

A Gothic cathedral, palaces housing museums, lively squares and a theatre that brings together personalities from around the world every year. That's Oviedo: a city with an almost endless ability to surprise those who explore it. Start at Oviedo Cathedral, continue to the Museum of Fine Arts and Fontán Market, and then make your way to the Campoamor Theatre, home to the Princess of Asturias Awards.

One important thing: make sure you leave room for the local culinary delights. Fabada, cachopo, Asturian cheeses, cider... And don't forget to venture beyond the city. Oviedo is an excellent base for discovering the green landscapes of Asturias. In fact, head for Somiedo Natural Park – especially if you're a fan of The Hunger Games. The landscapes of this area were used to recreate ‘the arena’ in the latest instalment of the saga: The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.

Where to stay: Sercotel Ciudad de Oviedo