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10 of the best restaurants in Cádiz, Spain

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The inside guide to Cádiz, Andalucia's most underrated coastal city break

A sliver of land surrounded by the atlantic, this sun-splashed city is one of Andalucia’s most underrated getaways.

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, Cádiz has maintained a character of its own. Over 120 watchtowers dominate the city skyline, a legacy of its former life as a busy trading port, and a gold-domed cathedral stands as an emblem of the prosperity it enjoyed. The heart of the city is the whitewashed Casco Antiguo (old town), where a maze of narrow streets takes visitors past leafy plazas, baroque churches and elegant 18th-century merchants’ houses.  

Start the day in classic Spanish style with some crispy churros and chocolate. Café La Marina is a local institution, but to avoid the higher prices, join the ‘ gaditanos ’ — as locals are known — in the queue for Churrería La Guapa , on the other side of Plaza de la Libertad.  

Just around the corner, the 150ft-tall Torre Tavira is Cádiz’s highest watchtower. Once used for spotting ships sailing into port from the Americas, its viewing platform reveals the city’s best panoramas, and there’s even a fun camera obscura. After going up, head underground at Yacimiento Arqueològico Gadir , just a few metres away. Cádiz was founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century, and this archaeological site preserves intact remains of the original settlement.  

Next, amble through the old town’s labyrinth of tiny bars and old barber shops, taking in the signature art nouveau iron balustrades and tiled doorways. A tucked-away church, Oratorio de la Santa Cueva is a neo-classical jewel, with three splendid paintings by 18th-century Spanish master Francisco Goya. For souvenirs, try Sasha Alpargatas , which specialises in espadrilles in a variety of styles and hues. Or head nearby to Mira-Mira for a selection of colourful jewellery and handbags.

Cumbres Mayores , just off Plaza de Mina, is the place to refuel. This restaurant and tapas bar has been dishing up traditional Andalucian fare since 1966: sit at the bar below hanging jamóns or in the beamed dining room, tucking into grilled pork ribs or garlic prawns. For dessert, head back into the streets of the old town. Thanks to the Moors’ enduring legacy, you’ll find almond sweets in most parts of southern Spain; the local speciality, pan de Cádiz   — a cake-like sweet made from marzipan and candied fruits — is sold in almost every pastry shop.  

If you’re here in the summer, the coastline’s sandy beaches are perfect for whiling away lazy afternoons.   La Caleta , near the old town, and Victoria , a short car ride away, are among the best known, but Cortadura, heading south out of town, is wonderfully wild. Alternatively, catch a train to the nearby town of El Puerto de Santa Maria . It’s part of Andalucia’s ‘sherry triangle’, home of the popular fortified wine; try it at the   Bodegas Osborn e winery, where guided tours include tasting sessions.  

From there, wander into the cobbled streets of Santa Maria. If you’re still peckish, pop into Romerijo , a family-run restaurant and fishmonger with prawns, shrimps and goose barnacles to take away and eat on the go. Afterwards, cross over the road to the waterfront and hop on a catamaran for the half-hour trip back to Cádiz.  

Sunsets in Cádiz are best enjoyed from bars. In summer, you’ll find everyone near La Caleta beach, but in the winter months, Ajolá   — a cosy spot 10 minutes’ walk away — is hard to beat. When it’s time to round off the day, La Bodeguita de Plocia is one of the best tapas bars around. Join gossiping friends and elderly gents in flat caps, savouring fried anchovies or sipping a super-smooth manzanilla sherry.

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The scent of orange blossom, the swish of a flamenco dress, the glimpse of a white village perched atop a crag: memories of Andalucía linger.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

The Alhambra is Granada’s – and Europe’s – love letter to Moorish culture. Set against the brooding Sierra Nevada peaks, this fortified palace started…

It’s impossible to overemphasise the beauty of Córdoba’s great mosque, with its remarkably serene (despite tourist crowds) and spacious interior. One of…

Museo Picasso Málaga

This unmissable museum in the city of Picasso’s birth provides a solid overview of the great master and his work, although, surprisingly, it only came to…

Cueva de Nerja

It’s hard to imagine the surreal world that lies beneath the mountain foothills 4km east of Nerja, and it’s even harder to believe that these vast caverns…

Punta Paloma

One of Andalucía's most fabulous beaches, Punta Paloma, 10km northwest of Tarifa, is famous for its huge blond sand dune. At its far western end, you can…

Parque de María Luisa

Parque de María Luisa & South of Centre

A glorious oasis of green, the 34-hectare Parque de María Luisa is the perfect place to escape the noise and heat of the city, with duck ponds, landscaped…

Capilla Real

The Royal Chapel is the last resting place of Spain’s Reyes Católicos (Catholic Monarchs), Isabel I de Castilla (1451–1504) and Fernando II de Aragón …

Catedral de la Asunción

Jaén's massive cathedral still dwarfs the rest of the city, especially when seen from the hilltop eyrie of Cerro de Santa Catalina. Its construction…

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Andalucía and beyond

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The Perfect Andalucia Itinerary for 7, 10, or 14 Days

• Isabelle Hoyne
• May 20, 2024

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Pulling together the perfect southern Spain itinerary can be testing – I remember feeling overwhelmed when first sitting down to plan my trip to Andalucia – and you might be feeling this way too. This is a long one, but stick with me and by the end, you’ll know how to craft the perfect Andalucia itinerary!

I close my eyes and I am back there – flashes of orange blossoms, dusty, white towns that teeter on the precipice of yawning gorges, the solitary echo of footsteps on ochre-hued streets at siesta time. 

I taste the salty tang of Manchego cheese as it hits my tongue and squint my eyes in the bleached light of the midday sun, as I am once again immersed in the kaleidoscope of experiences that make up a road trip in Andalucia . 

Andalucia is famous for its shoreline – along its fringes are the beaches of the Costa del Sol, firm-favourite of many a package holiday fan. 

Its gateway is the port city of Malaga, but to step inside the interior of this region is to discover its beating, cultural heart and the very best of Southern Spain.

Our route first took us from the coast to the sweeping arches of the Puente Nuevo at Ronda, and on then to cosmopolitan Seville , capital city of Andalusia.

From here we journeyed our way further through southern Spain to gawp at La Mezquita in Cordoba before finishing at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, racking up our step count at Granada’s Alhambra .

Since initially writing this Andalucia itinerary guide, I’ve spent a number of months living in the marvellous metropolis that is Seville. I’ve fallen even further under Andalusia’s charms and hope to help you do the same through this comprehensive guide.

I understand that time constraints may be different for all readers of this post, and so below, I have outlined a variety of proposed itineraries depending on number of days you have available.

Further on in the post, I lay out my recommendations for each destination mentioned. Happy planning!

Essential links for booking your Andalucia trip

Search for and book flights via  Skyscanner Book your car rental via Rentalcars Make sure to book in advance: ☆ Make sure to book tickets to the Alhambra well in advance, that include entry to the Nasrid Palaces as visitor numbers are limited daily. To get the most from your visit, book a small group guided tour or alternatively, a private tour . ☆ The Seville Super Combi Pass offers a discounted bundle price for access to the Alcazar, Cathedral & Giralda Some memorable experiences in Andalucia ☆ Arabian Baths Experience at Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus ☆ VIP early-access Alcazar of Seville tour (** editor’s choice **) ☆ Tastes, Tapas & Traditions of Seville Food Tour (great for foodies – I took this tour & loved it!) ☆ 4-WD Sierra Nevada Safari Tour (Granada) ☆ White Villages from Ronda – Wine & Tapas by E-Bike Recommended hotels : Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria (Ronda hotel with spectacular views) // Soho Boutique Hotel (luxe for less, Seville) // Villa Oniria (boutique beauty I stayed in, Granada) // H10 Palacio Colomera (reasonably priced Cordoba luxury hotel with pool) Best Andalucia vacation rentals : take a look at the most popular apartments & houses

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Why history, culture and gastronomy lovers should visit andalucia, when should i go to andalucia, what is the best way to get around andalucia, how many days do i need in andalucia, andalucia itinerary 7 days, andalucia itinerary 10 days, andalucia itinerary 2 weeks, andalucia by train itinerary, ronda & the white villages, related reading for granada & andalucia, like this post pin for later.

Andalusia’s history is a long one.

For millennia these lands have attracted a diverse range of people. From early, pre-Christian metalworkers to the Phoenicians, the Romans to the Moors, Andalusia finally found itself in the hands of the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, when it then became the nucleus of Spanish trade with the New World in the 16th century.

Responsible also for the Reconquista , they made it their business to either convert to Christianity or expel from Spain its Muslim and Jewish occupants.  

Each ruling dynasty left its mark on the region. Possibly the most unique and lasting legacy is that of the Moors – in fact, flamenco, one of Andalusia’s most distinct cultural outputs, finds its origins in Arabic roots.

Arabic influence on Andalusian architecture is also extremely distinct in this region, presenting a magical hybrid of Moorish and Spanish qualities (called ‘ Mudejar ’) that won’t be seen anywhere else in the world.

The perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, be wowed by architectural diversity and uniqueness and spend a good deal of time in tapas bars swilling local wine, an Andalucia road trip needs to make its way onto every traveller’s southern Spain itinerary .  

Planning your Andalucia road trip

Before embarking on our Andalusia road trip , it took a little bit of head scratching and quite a bit of research in order to answer all questions and decide on a route and itinerary for the trip. 

Where should I base myself in Andalucia and how much time did I need? Is it safe to self drive in Spain? Is it possible to get around Andalucia by train? You will likely have the same questions, so let me answer these for you below!

As with a lot of destinations, the shoulder months of April/May and September/October make for a great time to visit Andalucia, with average daily temperatures of anywhere between 20-30 degrees celsius (68-86 Fahrenheit).

I’ve visited Seville during May/June and temperatures sat at around 27/28 degrees celsius each day.

I would highly recommend that you avoid visiting at the peak of summer, particularly July and August, as the temperatures in places such as Seville can soar to a blistering 40 degrees celsius (104 fahrenheit) or more.

Bear in mind that the temperatures will vary from place to place – Seville, for example, will be milder than Ronda and Granada.

I spent a week in Andalucia across the New Year period and found it to be an excellent time to visit.

Conditions ranged from ‘short-sleeve weather’ in Seville, to ‘wear a coat weather’ in Granada, but there was sunshine everywhere we went and minimal rain (especially compared to home- Ireland! ) which makes Andalucia a very attractive winter sun destination in Europe.

I looked into buses, trains and hiring a car in Andalucia as a means of completing our southern Spain itinerary. We opted in the end to hire a car. My reasons for this:

Getting around Andalucia by train

Train routes in Andalucia are good, with fast AVE trains linking Malaga, Seville and Cordoba.

They don’t, however, work out very well when trying to incorporate Ronda and any of the White Villages into your itinerary and you have a little less flexibility if you want to venture off the beaten path outside of Andalucia’s larger urban centres.

Price wise too, when I looked at the cost of train tickets for two travellers and compared to hiring a car, there was little in the difference. Weighing it up, it was worth the flexibility of having a car at our disposal for our particular itinerary.

If it makes sense for your itinerary, though, train is still a solid option and you can check times and book tickets here .  

Getting around Andalucia by bus

Travelling around Andalucia by bus is also an option, but not one I opted for. Like the train, you’re tied to bus schedules and bus station drop off/pick up routes.

Personally, too, I just prefer to travel by car (or train), but if you would prefer to travel by bus then you can search for and book your tickets here.

Hiring a car for an Andalusia road trip

If you have decided that hiring a car is a good move for you too, then wonderful – let your Southern Spain road trip begin!

I suggest hiring something that’s not too much on the large side and that is comfortable enough for the longer stretches but small enough to navigate the often minimal spaces of narrow, cobbled city centre streets and car parks. 

I always use rentalcars.com when hiring a car abroad. I like them for the following reasons:

• You can compare all car rental companies in a given destination. They also have superior filtering options too, so you really can drill down to what you’re looking for – even to the deposit amount and payment type. 
• All the info you need for your relevant booking can subsequently be found in their convenient app – no print outs necessary.
• You can often amend/cancel your booking with no additional charges.

Driving in Andalucia during your itinerary for southern Spain- what you need to know

If you’ve ascertained that renting a car is the best way for you to get around Andalucia for your southern Spain itinerary, what else do you need to know?

Road conditions in Andalucia : the conditions of the roads in Andalucia are very good. Much of the road between main cities is motorway and when not, single lanes are wide and easy to navigate.

Driving distances and time : one thing I loved about our itinerary for Southern Spain was that there was never too much driving between locations.

As a rough guide, here is a summary of the time we spent transferring between cities (departing from and arriving to city centre locations in each):

• Malaga Airport to Ronda: 1 hr 15 mins
• Ronda to Seville: 1 hr 45 mins
• Seville to Cordoba: 1 hr 40 mins
• Cordoba to Granada: 2 hrs 15 mins
• Granada to Malaga Airport: 1 hr 25 mins

Provided that you leave at a sensible time and aim to arrive at your next stop in the same vein (i.e. not during the middle of rush hour traffic), the times provided by Google Maps between destinations are accurate and can be relied upon.

Parking is often not included in hotel rates, and is usually available at a nearby secure, underground car park.

Rather than source your own car parking (which might end up being far from your accommodation on the outskirts of town), I’d recommend taking the hit on this for peace of mind while driving a rental car in an unknown city.

It usually costs around €25-30 per day.

Is driving in Andalucia easy?

Driving in Andalucia really doesn’t pose too many problems. The roads we encountered were all high quality and we ran into no logistical issues when using Google Maps – once we followed the route provided we ended up where we needed to be.

Cities will be busy – Seville is a little tricky, as you first need to navigate larger intersections as you make your way towards the centre and then narrow streets once you go further in. Granada was much the same, although on a lesser scale.

We got caught out driving into the centre of Cordoba – there is a local access only zone that is controlled by electronic bollards so if your accommodation is in the old centre, arrange entry into the area in advance with your accommodation.

All in all though, a fairly straightforward driving experience as things go.

How long is a piece of string?! The charms of this region are plentiful and far reaching. To really cover a good chunk of the region of Andalucia as opposed to a city or two, then you need at least one week in Andalucia for it to be worth your while.

You want to allow for at least 2-3 days per stop (with a couple of exceptions requiring less time), so keep that in mind when crafting your Andalusia itinerary .

Personally, I spent a week in Andalucia and would have loved to extend my time there by another few days if I could.

I’ve included my 7 day Andalucia itinerary below, along with how I recommend organising your time should you have 10 days to spend in Andalucia. I’ve also included a 14 day Southern Spain itinerary as well.

• Ronda (2 nights)
• Seville (2 nights)
• Cordoba (1 night)
• Granada (2 nights)

A 7 day Andalucia itinerary allows you to get a real flavour of the region.

You will find yourself on the road at least every second day or so of the trip, but as I’ve mentioned above, journey times between destinations in Andalucia aren’t too long, so this won’t be too arduous. 

If you use the itinerary above in the given order (assuming most will be flying into/out of Malaga airport – so this is your starting point), you will be able to fit in many highlights of the region.

Each of the cities above are key points of interest in Andalusia and they are all also unique to each other, allowing you to uncover much of Andalucia in 7 days .

• Ronda & the White Villages (3 nights)
• Seville (3 nights)
• Malaga (1 night)

10 days in Andalucia will allow you to take some more time to explore the region a little more slowly. Rather than add in additional destinations, I’ve instead expanded on the 7 day itinerary to allow you a better immersion in those places I feel warrant more time. 

I’ve given an additional day in Ronda so you can explore the unique White Villages in the area.

Seville too gets an extra night – I’ve stayed in Seville for a week before and didn’t run out of things to do, so the 10 day Andalucia itinerary above allows a little more time to uncover the delights of my favourite Spanish city. 

Finally, I’ve ended this 10 day Andalucia itinerary in Malaga.

Instead of making your way straight to the airport, take a day to explore Malaga as a variation for this itinerary for southern Spain – perhaps visit an art gallery, admire the orange trees in Plaza de los Naranjos, or take a well earned dip in the Mediterranean Sea! 

• Granada (3 nights)
• Nerja (3 nights)

Your two week Andalucia itinerary builds on the 10 day route. Key changes include an additional night in Granada to allow for a day to visit the Sierra Nevada mountains (for skiing in winter or beautiful hikes in summer) and 3 nights in Nerja to slow down, grab a sun lounger and relax on the beach.

Yes, while having 14 days in Andalucia potentially means that you can cram in more destinations and stops, I know from experience that trying to cram in more does not usually result in a superior trip – the opposite.

In fact – so slow down, immerse yourself in each of your stops and don’t come back from your trip more exhausted than when you left for it! 

Trust me, Andalucia is a region that needs to be explored slowly, as much of this journey is about the experience in itself. 

While it wouldn’t be my recommended way to do it, as I prefer the flexibility of having a car, I understand that this might not be practical for everyone. It is definitely possible to undertake the above itineraries by train, with a little tweaking. 

Book your train tickets in advance here , especially if you are travelling during peak times.

You will be able to complete the loop of Malaga-Seville-Cordoba-Granada-Nerja-Malaga by train – the only thing you would miss out on would be overnighting in Ronda.

I really, really, would recommend visiting Ronda if you can (it’s very different to all of the cities), so there is a way to circumnavigate this conundrum by allocating your night in Ronda as an additional night in Seville and undertaking a guided day trip to Ronda and the White Villages from Seville.  

Building your Southern Spain itinerary – places to visit

So now that we’ve covered off where you should go, what is there to see in each of these places?

In this next section, I’m going to touch on some recommendations for each of the destinations that I mentioned on the 7, 10 and 14 day Andalucia itineraries above. 

I’m not going to provide you with one of those “on day 1, go to this place at 9am, followed by the next place at 11.15am” style itineraries – this is a holiday, not a military operation and Andalusia is a place that encourages you to relax!

I think it’s far more enjoyable to have a ‘menu’ of things to do in a place to have at your fingertips, depending on how you feel at the time. Decide on a couple of ‘must-sees’ in advance, book your tickets, and then fit the rest in around those booked activities. 

While known for being the birthplace of modern day bullfighting, Ronda is even more iconic due to its unique situation, perched atop what seems to be the almost bottomless El Tajo gorge, across which the giant arches of the Puente Nuevo stretch, joining the old Moorish town with the ‘new’ town. 

What to see & do in Ronda

Ronda is such a picturesque and inspiring location that merely walking around it was nearly enough to keep me going! However, below are some highlights and ideas of things to see and do in Ronda.

Get acquainted with Ronda

If you’d like to get your bearings and understand the history of the place, which is very interesting, then take a walking tour on your first day. For a history lesson that’s a little more quirky, drop into the Bandit Museum , Spain’s only museum that is dedicated to bandits and highwaymen. 

Visit the Municipal Museum that is housed in Ronda’s Mondragón Palace , with moorish courtyards, stunning gardens and awe-inspiring views.

Located in the old Arabic quarter of San Miguel, pop in to visit the Arabic Baths , which were built in the 13th century and are the best preserved in Spain.

Take in the views & the famous El Tajo Gorge

Examine the star of the show in Ronda, the Puente Nuevo from all angles and at different times of the day to really get a deep sense of appreciation for the feat of engineering that it is.

Hike down the gorge from the Plaza Maria Auxiliadora in town to view the Puente Nuevo from below – just don’t think about the fact that you have to walk back up it afterwards!

Make sure to take some air too at Ronda’s Alameda de Tajo , an elegant outdoor square that leads out towards sweeping views of the El Tajo gorge.

We went for an early morning run along here, and it definitely knocked the cobwebs off!

Get familiar with the surrounding countryside

Visit some more of the famous White Villages , or Pueblos Blancos. Suggestions include Zahara de la Sierra, Setenil de las Bodegas and Grazalema.

Alternatively, you foodies out there might enjoy this alternative White Villages experience – where you take to the countryside on e-bikes and sample wine and cheese as you go!

If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, want to take in the beautiful scenery and don’t mind getting a bit dirty, then the dramatic surroundings of the El Tajo gorge are the perfect location to do a gorge buggy tour .

Ronda bull ring

While a controversial topic and not a sport that I personally support, Ronda is famous for its bullfighting, making the Plaza dos Toros (or bullring) one of its most popular attractions. 

Where to stay in Ronda

Hotel catalonia reina victoria.

Upon pulling back the curtains and throwing open the doors of our balcony, I knew that I had chosen the right spot to stay in Ronda!

Offering absolutely insane views from the balconies of its rooms, the Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria is a Victorian style hotel that has undergone modern refurbishment.

Complete with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa and those exceptional views to boot, you really can’t go wrong with this one. 

Catalonia Ronda

I agonised between this hotel and Catalonia Reina Victoria. The Catalonia Ronda is located right in the heart of town, just across from the bull ring (Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria is 500m walk from the centre).

Boasting a rooftop pool with views into the bull ring and on towards El Tajo gorge, this is one for those who want to be slap bang in the middle of the action and are looking for a hotel in Ronda town centre.

Ah, Sevilla. This delightful, stylish, historical city is hands down my favourite in Spain and needs to find itself on every Spain travel plan. Whether it’s cultural sights, architecture, cuisine or shopping (or a healthy dose of all four) that you seek, this city really has got it all.

I’ve written all about what to do in Seville in my Seville guide , but here’s a synopsis.

RELATED READING | The Best Airbnb Seville Spain [2024] – 22 Luxury Airbnb in Seville

What to see & do in Seville

EDITOR’S NOTE | TakeWalks , our small-group cultural tour company of choice, have recently launched a range of tours in Seville.

These include an excellent food tour that I’ve taken, and a Seville in a Day Tour with VIP Alcazar Access . I’d highly recommend that you check them out.

Alcázar of Seville

First things first, get yourself to my favourite landmark in Seville, the Alcázar of Seville . Still in use as the King of Spain’s Seville residence, this amazing palace boasts incredible Mudejar architecture and extensive gardens. It was also featured as Dorne in Game of Thrones.

It’s super popular and also sells out early in the day, so book your skip the line tickets here . Once you see the queue that forms as the day progresses, you’ll be happy you’ve bought yours in advance, trust me!

There’s also quite a lot to take in at the Alcazar, so if you’d love to know more about it and haven’t done your reading in advance, then consider taking this small group tour, which has received over 500 5 star reviews from past guests.

If you’re looking for something really special, then consider the TakeWalks VIP early-access tour .

Seville Cathedral & Giralda

Beside the Alcazar, you will find the incredible Seville Cathedral, (which is the 3rd largest church in the whole world !), along with its iconic Giralda, which towers beautifully above the rooftops of Seville.

Again, queues get crazy long, so book a skip the line ticket in advance. When you’re done exploring the cathedral, make sure to climb La Giralda , which is the cathedral’s bell tower, for beautiful views over the city.

TOP TIP | If you plan on visiting both Seville Cathedral and the Royal Alcazar, it can work out better for you to purchase a Seville Super Combi Pass . This includes skip-the-line entrance to both these attractions, plus a hop-on/hop-off bus around Seville.

You can also download audio guides for both the Cathedral and the Alcazar. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that incorporates both the Alcazar and the Cathedral. With them located so closely together, it makes sense to visit them on the same day.

I’ve rounded up the best Seville Cathedral tours in this post – check it out!

Rooftop cocktails

All that touring is thirsty work! For those seeking a more glam viewpoint of Seville Cathedral and La Giralda, head to the rooftop bar of the EME Cathedral Hotel for cocktails. I’d highly recommend visiting at sunset.

Plaza de España & Maria Luisa Park

Another emblematic location in Seville is the expansive, fountain and tile filled Plaza de España . Try go early in the morning if you can to have more of the space to yourself, as it fills up quite quickly throughout the day.

Make sure to visit and take a stroll in the adjoining Maria Luisa Park during your time in Seville.

Explore the neighbourhoods

You could while away hours wandering the cobbled streets of Sevilla, but when you are in town, do make sure to wander through the Santa Cruz , the old Jewish quarter in the historic area around the Cathedral.

Cross the river, too, and explore some of the craft workshops of the Triana area.

Seville is the home of flamenco dancing, so it is a fitting location in which to attend a flamenco show.

This Flamenco show features 15 of Seville’s best flamenco dancers at Seville’s famous Tablao El Arenal, with a choice of three packages – show with drink, show with tapas, or show with dinner. Alternatively, you could consider TakeWalks Tapas Crawl & Flamenco experience .

Metropol Parasol

Finally, Seville is home to the very modern Metropol Parasol installation – evening time makes a great time to view this as the sun sets over Seville. If you visit early in the day, make sure to head underneath to the interior – where you’ll find an authentic food market in full swing.

Where to stay in Seville

Casa romana hotel boutique.

I had a hard time trying to find somewhere that was reasonably priced over the New Year period in Seville, that would also pass muster and my rather picky hotel standards.

Luckily, I happened upon this charming, 4 star boutique hotel after oodles of hours spent searching. 

Rooms are set around a delightful outdoor courtyard (like a Roman villa) that features a lovely, trickling water feature. There is also a rooftop terrace with a hot tub.

The street it is located on is quiet, and its position in the Old Town meant we were 15 minutes away from everything.

Hotel Alfonso XIII

If you want to splash out on a spectacular luxury hotel in Seville, then look no further than the emblematic Hotel Alfonso XIII.

Situated right beside Seville’s Royal Alcazar, the architecture and design of the hotel borrows heavily from its Mudejar-themed neighbour.

Comes with everything that you would expect a hotel of this ilk to offer.

Soho Boutique Villa

Those looking for something a little bit more affordable, but nonetheless luxe, will find that Soho Boutique Villa ticks all their boxes.

This stylish, 3 star boutique hotel features trendy rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and is located too in the old town area of Seville. 

Click here to discover a curated list of Seville holiday apartments

We arrived in Cordoba just as the sun was setting, casting a soft golden haze on the walls of the city as we made our approach from the river. Cordoba is special. For many years preceding the Reconquista, Jews, Muslims and Christains lived peacefully side-by-side. 

An important Roman city too, Cordoba is a melting pot of all these cultures. Famous also for its patios, this is a rather gorgeous and extremely atmospheric city that should not be left off any Andalucia travel itinerary.

What to see & do in Cordoba

Visit the Mosque-Cathedral

Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral, or ‘ La Mezquita ’ should be the first port of call when visiting Cordoba. This incredibly unique structure of a cathedral housed within a mosque is famous for its red and white arches.

If you’d like to learn more about the fascinating history of this astounding structure, this guided tour  is extremely well reviewed.

Discover the Jewish Quarter

One area of Cordoba that you need to get lost in is the Jewish quarter, or La Judería. It forms the Old Town of Cordoba and is where you will find most of the city’s main sites. 

A quick stop, but well worth popping into is the Cordoba Synagogue , which is the only existing synagogue in Andalucia. 

The Jewish Quarter is extremely interesting, so if you’d like to learn more, then it might be worth considering a combined Mosque-Cathedral and Jewish Quarter walking tour. This one is extremely well reviewed, and finishes with a tapa and a drink.

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos

Another must-see in Cordoba is the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos . Having served as the residence of the Catholic kings, inside it features tranquil, Moorish patios and gardens. Climb the ramparts for views across Cordoba city.

You can book a skip the line ticket and guided tour here . You will also be able to see into the Royal Stables of Cordoba from the ramparts of the Alcazar. This is where the famous breed of Andalusian horses was created. You can visit the stables and also attend a show. 

Sample local dishes

Make sure to try Salmorejo , which is the local speciality of cold tomato soup made with bread, garlic, olive oil and vinegar and then topped with egg and ham. It might sound a little weird, but a friend of mine who lived in Cordoba encouraged me to try it and I can confirm that it is delicious!

Get acquainted with downtown Cordoba & its patios

Make sure to stop off and see some of Cordoba’s Patios! These colourful, flower-filled courtyards are dotted around the city.

Take a stroll through the Plaza de la Corredera . Nearby, you will also be able to observe, towering over the street, the columns of the Roman Temple of Cordoba .

Finally, cross the Guadalquivir River via the Roman Bridge for magnificent views back towards the old town of Seville. This bridge has been standing since before the birth of Christ!

Where to stay in Cordoba

Eurostars conquistador.

This 4 star hotel in Cordoba is where I stayed during my visit and it was absolutely perfect for one night.

Located on the opposite side of the street from the Mezquita, I could see the Mezquita’s beautiful Arabic arches illuminated at all times of the day right from my bed, which was really quite special.

At its centre is a beautiful courtyard, which was a lovely spot to grab a drink in.

Hospes Palacio del Bailio

If you are staying a little longer in Cordoba, or are looking for a luxury hotel in Cordoba, then I would opt for Hospes Palacio del Bailio.

This 5 star hotel with swimming pool is located in a 16th century former palace, with interiors that incorporate a stylish blend of both old and new. It is located in the old town and is only 1 km away from the Mezquita.

H10 Palacio Colomera

This snazzy Cordoba 4 star hotel features an outdoor plunge pool, perfect for those hotter days.

Located in the newer part of town close to the Roman Temple, it is still only 1km away from the Mezquita and the old historic area of Cordoba. 

Granada sits at the foot of the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range and is home to the Alhambra, Spain’s most popular tourist attraction.

As the former capital of Moorish Andalucia, Granada’s Alhambra really is something that needs to be seen to be believed and its presence alone in Granada justifies a visit to the city.

Related reading for Granada |

• How to Spend One Day in Granada
• 2 Days in Granada: Itinerary & Tips
• Visiting the Alhambra from Seville (as a day trip)
• How many days in Granada do you need?
• Visiting the Alhambra: Complete Guide

Where to stay in Granada

What to see & do in granada.

Visit the extraordinary Alhambra

This enormous, hill-top fortress is a complex of palaces, gardens and patios – the highlight for me being the Nasrid Palaces.

There is a daily limit on ticket sales, so where you can, I advise booking your tickets months (or at the very least, weeks) in advance if you plan on going at a popular time. Make sure that you book a ticket that includes the Nasrid Palaces , as these are the first to go.

The Alhambra complex is sprawling and its history comprehensive and interesting, so it is a spot where it’s well worth getting a guide.

This small group tour is extremely well reviewed, or if you’re like me and dawdle a lot to take photos and look at things in detail, perhaps opt for a ticket with audio guide instead, so you can move at your own pace.

TOP TIP | If you forget to book your Alhambra tickets, or book your trip a little closer to the date, then it’s highly likely that Alhambra tickets that include the Nasrid Palaces will be sold our.

Scour any tours that have availability for yours dates and know that if all else fails, you have one last ditch attempt.

Each night at midnight, the official Alhambra website re-releases those tickets that have been returned for the following day (or the same day, technically, if it’s after midnight).

Act really fast the second the clock strikes midnight and you may hopefully be able to secure tickets (I did once, but only by the skin of my teeth!).

Discover Granada’s churches

Visit Granada’s Cathedral and Royal Chapel . The final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, I underestimated how interesting I would find the Royal Chapel and it was my favourite attraction in Granada after the Alhambra.

If you want to learn more about this powerful couple and their place of rest, you can book a guided tour . If baroque is your thing, then get yourself to the Basilica of San Juan de Dios .

This incredible 18th century church is swathed in gold features and frescos, and is the most important baroque church in Spain. 

Make sure to spend some time exploring the Aladdin’s cave of shops and stalls in the Albaicín district, which is Granada’s former Arabic neighbourhood. Another worthwhile thing to do in Granada is to watch the sunset from one of the mirador.

The most popular one for this is the San Nicolas Mirador , which offers spectacular views of the Alhambra.

For a memorable experience that combines both, this 5* sunset walking tour takes you through both the Albaicín and Sacromonte districts to the San Nicolas Mirador, regaling interesting facts and stories about Granada along the way.

Go shopping

Granada has an absolutely wonderful range of high street fashion stores and make up shops, with multiple Zara stores –  it’s safe to say I squished in an adequate amount of retail therapy when I was there!

Head to Calle Reyes Católicos where you will find the majority of these. There are also two El Corte Inglés in Granada.

Immerse yourself in the tradition of flamenco in Granada

The area of Sacromonte is famous for its flamenco dancing, the venues for which are often set in caves. This show takes place in a cave-restaurant, in one of Granada’s most spectacular venues.

Eat some tapas

In Granada, you get a free glass of wine when you order tapas. If you are a foodie, then this small group food tour will introduce you to Granada’s traditional products and dishes (including tapas), along with some hidden treasures.     

Visit the baths | Pay a visit to Granada’s famous ancient Arab baths, “ El Bañuelo ”. Unfortunately, these are not in use today, but if you fancy trying to Arabic bath experience for yourself to relax after all that sightseeing, you can book a traditional hammam and massage here !

Get out into the Sierra Nevada mountains | Granada is located in the shadows of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains.

Your stop in Granada would be the perfect opportunity to break up all of your city visits with some time spent in the clear mountain air. Depending on your interests, here are some ideas to get you started:

• 4WD Sierra Nevada Safari tour
• Sierra Nevada Small Group E-Bike Tour
• Sunset at 2,500m in Sierra Nevada

Villa Oniria

I loved our hotel in Granada! Situated in the city centre, Villa Oniria is an elegant 4 star hotel situated in a 19th century manor house.

Set around a beautiful Andalusian courtyard, it has a plush, yet relaxed atmosphere. The location is great for exploring all the main sights of Granada. There is also a fantastic restaurant located onsite.

Alhambra Palace

If you’re looking for a 5 star hotel in Granada, I would draw your attention to the Alhambra Palace.

It’s probably a toss up for me between here and the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula (where the entry level rooms may be a tad more modern than those of the Alhambra Palace’s equivalent), but it’s the location outside the walls of the Alhambra and the expansive views of the city that clinch this for me – I’ll take a Junior Suite with city views, please. 

Should you find yourself with more than 10 days in Andalucia, I’d recommend adding some beach time to your southern Spain trip itinerary. This will allow you a few days to kick up your  feet and relax after all your sightseeing! 

I’d recommend considering the white cobbled streets of the former fishing village of Nerja, an area far quieter than the glitzy beach clubs that run from Marbella to Puerto Banus. Conveniently, it’s just a little over an hour’s drive from Granada too.

If the glitz, glamour and beach clubs of Marbella are more your thing however, there’s nothing wrong with that! I’ve written a roundup of the best holiday villas in Marbella, which you can read here .

What to see & do in Nerja

Get some R&R

Relaxation is the aim of the game here, so get your tanning on (safely!) on one of the beaches of Nerja . Some of Nerja’s most beautiful beaches include Playa Carabeillo, Playa El Chorrillo, Playa El Cañuelo and Playa de Alberquillas. 

Explore the local area

Take a day trip to nearby Frigiliana , which is 6km away. Think pristine white buildings, cobbled streets and cute alleyways. You can also visit Visit the Nerja Caves , which stretch for almost 5km underground and have been in existence for millions of years.

They are also home to the largest stalagmite in the world. Nearby too, is the Acueducto del Águila , or Eagle Aqueduct, a very eye catching, red and yellow coloured feat of engineering located just outside of Nerja. 

Hike some of the local area covering beaches, cliffs and Moorish towers before undertaking a spot of snorkelling. If you’re feeling particularly active, you can walk the Rio Chillar gorge – just prepare to get your feet wet!

Another good hike is Il Cielo – which translates to ‘heaven’ – for breathtaking views of the sea and the expanse of the surrounding countryside. 

Where to stay in Nerja

Hotel balcón de europa .

This beachfront hotel in Nerja is built into the Balcón de Europa rock face, and enjoys direct access to Caletilla Beach.

It features an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant with stunning sea views. Opt for a room with sea views and a balcony to properly enjoy the seafront location.

Boutique holiday rental in Nerja

This nautical themed holiday rental in Nerja features a balcony with sea views, along with a pool and sun loungers.

The house is a mere 200m from the beach and it also takes less than 10 minutes on foot to reach the busy centre and its bars, restaurants and shops.

Known primarily as the gateway to the Costa del Sol when I was growing up, Marbella is in fact a city full of culture and has done a lot to shift this image in recent years.

Yes, there may still exist the dazzling lights of Malaga’s glitzy nightlife, but do remember that this too is the city that gave us Picasso.

Built atop Roman ruins and holding Moorish citadels within its embrace, this impressive city is also worth a stop on a southern Spain travel itinerary. 

What to see & do in Malaga

Stroll around the old town, and take in the Plaza de los Naranjos , a beautiful square in the old town centre that is bursting with orange trees. 

Visit the Alcazaba of Malaga . Built by the Moors in the 11th  to protect against Catholic attackers, its prime position provides magnificent views over the city and coastline. You can book a tour here . 

Visit the Roman Theatre . Having only been rediscovered in the 1950’s, the theatre is located right beside the Alcazaba and is free to visit.  This walking tour includes both the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba.

Continue up the hill past the Alcazaba to Gibralfaro Castle . Built to protect the Alcazaba, this is where you will get the best views of Malaga and can even see as far as the Strait of Gibraltar on a clear day. 

All about the views here, climb the tower of the whopping Malaga Cathedral for 360 degree views of the city!

Take a trip to the Picasso Birthplace Museum , where – you guessed it – was the place that Pablo Picasso grew up! You can book your tickets in advance here . 

Art lovers should also visit the Museo Picasso Málaga , which explores the life and art of the famous painter and includes 200 of his works of art. You can purchase tickets here . 

You can also visit one of Europe’s biggest and best botanical gardens, La Concepción should this tickle your fancy. 

Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop bar of the La Terraza de la Alcazaba for incredible views of the city, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. 

Finally, if you haven’t had enough of eating throughout your Andalusia trip (or want to end your trip with a night of feasting) then I thought that this Malaga evening wine & taps tour looked rather appealing!

Featuring the city’s gourmet highlights, from a classic shop to much loved bars, you’ll taste your way through some of Malaga’s classic foods, from Iberian ham to tapas and wine.

Where to stay in Malaga

Palacio solecio, a small luxury hotel of the world.

A gorgeous, luxury 4 star hotel in the centre of Malaga. The hotel occupies a restored 18th century mansion and is a minute’s walk from Museo Picasso Málaga. 

The building and the rooms of this hotel are truly exquisite, featuring an internal courtyard with marble arches and palms.

Hotel Gran Hotel Miramar GL 

This luxurious, 5 star hotel in Malaga is situated along the seafront, offering glorious views of the ocean from some of its rooms.

A listed building, these walls have hosted many high profile visitors over the years, including Elizabeth Taylor and Ernest Hemmingway. A truly chic affair, with glorious views onto the waterfront.

• Alhambra Day Trip | Day Trip to Alhambra from Seville: How to Pull off a Flawless Visit
• 2 days in Granada | Granada in 2 days: Ultimate Itinerary & Top Tips
• Alhambra travel guide | Visiting the Alhambra – Ultimate Guide + Insider Alhambra Tips
• One day in Granada | Best of Granada in One Day: Where to Go, Eat & Stay
• Where to stay in Granada | Where to Stay in Granada, Spain [2024] – Top Areas & Accommodation
• How long in Granada? | How Many Days in Granada Do You Really Need?
• Andalucia itinerary | The Perfect Andalucia Itinerary for 7, 10, or 14 Days

Related Topics

• Itineraries

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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Guardian travel tip

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Re: Guardian travel tip

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Jalpujarra wrote: Could the Guardian be wrong? cors not.

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Amazing Andalucia: A 7 day Itinerary to see the Best of Southern Spain

Posted on February 25, 2018 October 25, 2021 Author Priya 12 Comments

Flamenco dancers, horse carriages, bright bougainvilleas, tapas, and elaborate Moorish castles are what is in store when you visit Southern Spain.  Here is our 7 day Andalusia Itinerary to see the best of Southern Spain. While westerners spell Andalusia with a ‘s’, Spaniards spell it as Andalucía !  Andalucía called Al-Andalus (Arabic for “land of the west”) was a Moorish empire for 781 years, from 711 to 1492.  

Spain is one of the best countries in Europe ! We wanted to visit as much as possible of the romantic region of Spain that lies south of the Iberian peninsula.  We landed in Madrid and took another flight to Seville , after a few days of tasting every plate of tapa and drinking quite a bit of sherry we made our way to  Granada   and the Alhambra palace driving through the Sierra Nevada.    

We stopped at a few charming White villages that dot the region – Grazalema was our favorite.  From Granada, we flew to Barcelona visited Monsterrat and spent a few days exploring Catalunya and the sun-kissed Costa Brava region in the Spanish Riviera before returning home.

WHAT IS IN THIS POST

7 Day Andalucia, Southern Spain Itinerary

7 day Southern Spain Itinerary 

• Seville 4 days
• Cordoba day trip from Seville
• Drive through the White villages with stops at a few and at Ronda
• Granada 3 days
• Barcelona 4 days with day trips to Montserrat, Girona, Pals and a visit to the Spanish Riviera

Charmed by Seville

Sevilla lived up to all its hype. We were charmed right when the taxi entered the old part of town, the narrow colorful picturesque orange tree-lined streets, the Moorish Palace, the beautiful Cathedral and the horse carriages at every corner made us fall in love with the little town in southern Spain.

See a short visual story of our day in Seville

We spend 4 days in Seville exploring the alleyways, trying different tapas and catching flamenco shows. The first day we just wandered around and took a tram over to Plaza España around the golden hour.  

The next day we started early to visit the Real Alcazar de Seville to avoid the crowds. This Mudejar palace was built by Pedro I on the site of Seville’s former Moorish Alcazar and the architecture and the gardens are grand.

We then crossed the square to explore  Seville’s cathedral ,  where the great navigator Columbus’s tomb is located. Make sure to climb the Giralda or belltower. It’s 40 flights up but ascends via a smooth ramp, so there aren’t stairs to climb.

I loved stopping every so often to get a view of the city below. Nearby EME Hotel has the best rooftop bar in Seville with a grand view of the Cathedral and serves up some refreshing cocktails.

Inside the Cathedral door of Seville’s massive cathedral stands a monument to Christopher Columbus . His tomb is held aloft by four allegorical figures representing the four kingdoms of Spain during Columbus’ life, Castille, Aragon, Navara, and Leon.

While we didn’t see any matadors or bullfights in Seville, we did catch a couple of flamenco shows – Casa del Flamenco was absolutely gorgeous, set in an Andalusian patio in the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood. It is famous for not using microphones or amplifiers just natural acoustics and powerful musicians and the most authentic heel kicking dancers. 

Another venue we loved was Casa de la Memoria . It was a small but authentic nightly show with a great mix of all of the flamenco’s important elements of dance, song, and guitar.  Go early to admire the tiles and artworks in their pretty patio and also to get the best seats in the house and of course get your tickets in advance.

After a flamenco show stop to catch a sunset view from the top of the wooden mushroom Parasol .  In the Old Quarter of Sevilla amidst historic and beautiful buildings, a gigantic, modern interpretation of wooden mushrooms doesn’t quite seem to fit but offers the (Second) best rooftop view. The basement floor houses a museum of ancient Roman and Moorish artifacts. Stop at Seville’s Museo de Bellas Artes to see the Spanish art.

Barrio de Santa Cruz was once a Jewish quarter and now is the place to go to get to know the real Seville. A labyrinth of alleyways, white-washed housing, restaurants and boutiques, this area is definitely the highlight of the city.  Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night chocolate con churro.

Where we Stayed in Seville: Petit Palace at Santa Cruz was centrally located and had a wonderful breakfast.  Hotel  EME is another great option, we were there for drinks and dinner one night and really loved the staff and the ambiance of the place.

Candy cane arches of Cordoba

We hopped on a train to visit the Candy cane double arches of Mesquita in Cordoba as a day trip. The Mesquita also called the Grand Mosque or Cathedral of Cordoba is quite unique.  

Although originally built as a  Mosque,  the center of this magnificent building was converted to a Cathedral after the Christians conquered Spain.

After walking through the forest of pillars made from different colored granite, marble, and alabaster supporting dozens of horseshoe arches, that looks like candy canes stop for some Paella. The tiny streets around the Mesquita are filled with shops and restaurants. 

Lunch at the  Las Piconeras  was one of the best we had in Andalucía – we had the best Paella,  fried eggplant with honey, olives, and salmorejo – which is like gazpacho but richer and smoother. Next walk through the narrow Flower street, lined with blue pots brimming with foliage and a nice view of the bell tower of the Mesquita.

History buffs will want to go see the  Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos  (Spanish for “Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs”) – Isabella and her husband Ferdinand used the Alcázar for one of the first permanent tribunals of the Spanish Inquisition and as a headquarters for their campaign against the Nasrid dynasty in Granada which was the last of the Moorish kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula. 

The monarchs are said to have met Christopher Columbus in the Alcázar as he prepared to take his first voyage to the Americas. The Alcázar also later served as a garrison for Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops in 1800.  Walk on the Roman bridge built over the  Guadalquivir  river, this river runs through the entire length of Spain; before catching the train back to Seville.

Road trip through Pueblos Blancos

Between the Atlantic in the west and the Mediterranean in the east, lies some of the prettiest hidden towns of Spain . If you are visiting  Andalucia, you cannot miss a trip to “ pueblos blancos ”, also known as white villages.

We stopped at the tourism office in Seville right behind the Cathedral to get some maps.  We had a GPS in the car but always good to have a good old fashioned map in hand, the tourism office gave us one marked “ Route of the Pueblos Blancos or White Villages ” we took this route to Granada where we spent the next 3 days. I highly recommend adding this to your Andalucia itinerary!

The “ route of the white villages ” is a tourist route that spreads from the region of la Sierra , the region of Janda , in the province of Cadiz and the Serrania de Ronda , in the province of Málaga.

The official route goes through these villages and towns: Alcalá del Valle, Algar, Algodonales, Arcos de la Frontera, Benaocaz, Bornos, El Bosque, El Gastor , Espera, Grazalema, Olvera, Prado del Rey, Puerto Serrano, Setenil de las Bodegas, Torre Alháquime, Ubrique, Vejer de la Frontera, Villaluenga del Rosario, Villamartín, Zahara de la Sierra .

These white villages, with whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches atop cliffs are rich in history. They date back to the Romans and Moors, offer spectacular flora & fauna, historical walking routes, and are havens for bird watchers & wildlife lovers.

The drive from Sevilla to Granada is about 155 miles or 250 kilometers. We drove to Arcos de la Frontera from Sevilla and from there stayed on A-372 till we got to Grazalema and then to Ronda.  These hilltop towns warrant a day or two of exploring but if you are short on time like us, a stop for lunch or coffee still gives you enough time for a short visit.  It was a long day but we made in time to catch the sunset in Granada.

Lunch stop at Grazalema

After getting lost in the labyrinth alleys of  Arcos de la Frontera, our first white village stops   we drove to  Grazalema , a natural park with splendid flora and fauna that varies from Spanish fir, cork trees, maple woods to deer and Iberian wild goats. It’s known for its great hiking routes and outdoor activity options.

Driving into the town, we saw quite a few bicyclists and hikers. Grazalema Natural Park has a trail of white villages going through it, many of which belong to the Natural Park. 

The postcard-pretty hill town of Grazalema, was quaint will cafes, a little church and a square where you can watch locals playing cards and conversing. We walked around the whitewashed streets for a couple of hours after lunch before driving on to Ronda.

A coffee stop in Ronda on our Andalusia itinerary

The city of Ronda, Spain is perched high atop the two cliff faces of El Tajo canyon. The Guadalevín River, which courses through the city, has carved a deep canyon dividing it. The walls of the canyon are sheer drops to the river over 100 meters below and the white stone buildings are built to the very edge of the chasm. 

Connecting the two parts of the city are three bridges, the Roman Bridge also called Puente Viejo , the Arab Bridge called Puente San Miguel , and the New Bridge Puente Nuevo . Pictured below is the not so new, New Bridge that was built in 1793.  

In addition to its impressive bridges, Ronda is home to Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring.  If you have more time, you can spend a leisurely day or two in Ronda . Ronda deserves a place on your Andalucia, Southern Spain itinerary.

Alhambra, the Grand finale in Granada

The highlight of any trip to Granada is a visit to the Alhambra and the view from Albayzín , the old Moorish quarter is my favorite.  Located on a hill across from the Alhambra, it has stunning views across to the palace. The area has a Moroccan feel to it and there are plenty of restaurants in the area that you can indulge in. 

At the San Nicolás terrace , you can catch some Gypsy music, especially during sunset.  We made to the terrace viewpoint just in time for the magnificent sunset view, the red sandstone seemed to glow when the setting suns ray hit.  It is virtually impossible to see the Moorish masterpiece, Alhambra without advance reservations.  It is definitely better to get a tour booked than trying to visit on your own.

Where we Stayed in Granada: We stayed at a two bedroom suite in Granada , not counting the driving day, we had two days here.  I wish we had more!

Júzcar, the White village that turned blue

If you are a fan of the Smurfs cartoon show, you might want to add Júzcar to your Andalucia, Southern Spain itinerary.  Only 25 km from Ronda,  it is the only Smurf village in the world.  It is said that Sony Pictures executives asked this Andalusian village if they could paint the town blue as a publicity stunt for promoting Smurfs.

The residents of Júzcar, loved having the tourists visit their town and voted to keep the city blue when Sony offered to restore the town back to its iconic  pueblo blanco after the promotion.  If you have a couple of extra days you can add the coastal area of Malaga and Cádiz to your itinerary.

Best time to visit Andalusia / Southern Spain

Wondering when is the best time to visit Andalusia, Southern Spain? The spring and fall months of April, May, June, September, October and November are the  best   time to   visit southern Spain . Spain is said to be at it’s most beautiful in October-November and March-May. If you are visiting during April don’t miss the festivities of Feria de Abril (Seville April Fair).

We were there during our summer break in early July, while it was hot in Andalucía and Barcelona, just plan to take an afternoon siesta and drink lots of sherry 😉 or water when out and about.  The streets were crowded but lively and we had no issues getting to museums and other sites that we had planned on visiting, as always a little planning always helps.

I hope you find our  7 day Andalucia Itinerary useful when planning your trip to Andalucia.  If you are considering living abroad in Spain, here is some helpful information about the cost of living in Spain. 

You might also like our Family-Friendly Guide to  Copenhagen ,  Edinburgh ,  Milan ,  Lisbon , Vienna ,  Bergamo ,  Barcelona ,  Venice , and  Verona  

You might also like: why you must visit malaga now road trip through the white villages of andalucia a day in cordoba spanish dishes, drinks and desserts you must try when visiting spain.

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12 thoughts on “Amazing Andalucia: A 7 day Itinerary to see the Best of Southern Spain”

Going there in 2 weeks. This is super helpful.

I’m glad you found it helpful. Hope you have an amazing time in Spain.

We have stayed in Cordoba a couple of years ago. The old city is interesting place, and the cuisine is amazing, especially gazpacho.

Cordoba was a lovely place to visit. We had some of the best gazpacho and paella there.

Thanks Victor. Cordoba was a lovely place to visit. We had some of the best gazpacho and paella there.

This is just the kind of itinerary we look for when we’re traveling — lots of things to do and see, plenty of historic and beautiful sites, and a large variety of experiences. The only place I’ve been to in Spain is Madrid, and I’d love to go back and see more!

Thanks Tami! Glad you found the itinerary useful and get to plan a trip back to Spain soon.

This sounds like a fabulous itinerary – thankyou for sharing! We recently took in Barcelona on a whirlwind RTW trip, and fell in love, so I would love to get back and explore more of Spain. I’ve heard that Andulucia is fabulous for a road trip, so that’s the goal. So glad to hear that Seville lives up to its hype – I would love to catch a flamenco show here as you did. And then driving through the route of the white towns, and visiting Juzcar too – what a cool itinerary, thanks!

Thanks Megan, hope you get to plan the trip back to Spain soon.

I’ve been to Spain so many times but never to Seville, will have to get there some day soon it looks like such a grand and colourful city. With lots of fantastic photo opportunities. Funnily enough, the other day I was looking at places to relocate to and Seville came up as a great city for expats.

Seville has so much character and history that sometimes might be overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona. Thanks for reminding me how many great places to explore and things to do in the area! I would definitely book the tickets for a Flamenco Dance show, because this is after all, it is the birthplace of the performance. @knycx.journeying

We were able to see Seville but missed that wooden mushroom and those white villages around. But we got to see Mijas near Malaga. Glad we got to the finale, the Alhambra in Granada! Spain is really beautiful and we missed half of what you saw!

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Visit Andalucia: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in andalucia (bucket list).

You want to visit Andalucia (South of Spain) for your next trip and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this list of the 20 best places to visit in Andalucia , with all must-see attractions and points of interest.

In addition to this list of the best things to do , I will also give you all my best tips as well as detailed itineraries to visit Andalucia in 3 to 16 days.

So, what are the best things to do in Andalucia? Where to go?

Let’s find out!

5. The White Villages

6. sierra de grazalema natural park, 8. the caminito del rey, 10. doñana national park, 11. marbella, 12. jerez de la frontera, 13. nerja caves, 14. the sierra nevada and the alpujarras, 15. gibraltar, 16. cabo de gata-nijar natural park, 17. tabernas desert, 18. ubeda and baeza, 19. attend a flamenco show, 20. eat tapas, renting a boat in andalucia, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, visit andalucia: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Andalucia, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Andalucia – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Andalucia!
• Itinerary: 1 week in Andalucia – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Andalucia – Discover how to visit Andalucia in 10 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Andalucia – The best itinerary to visit Andalucia in 14-15 days

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Andalucia tourist guide with Seville , the capital.

The Andalusian capital is full of historical monuments to discover . Whether you’re traveling with friends in the mood to party or looking for a romantic gateway , Seville is the perfect destination to have a good time and enjoy the sun.

Here are the best places to see in Seville, Andalucia:

• Seville Cathedral: this UNESCO World Heritage is the 3rd biggest cathedral in the world! Inside you’ll find the tomb of Cristopher Colombus, 45 panels representing the life of Christ and an impressive collection of art pieces. You should buy your skip the line tickets here .
• The Giralda: the top of the cathedral bell tower offers a 360° scenic view over the whole city.
• The Alcazar is the residence of the King of Spain when he visits Andalucia. In this palace, you’ll see sumptuous rooms, patios and stunning gardens. It’s the 2nd must-see attraction to visit in Seville. To avoid waiting in line at the entrance, click here .
• Santa Cruz neighborhood, Seville’s historic center. Many monuments to see (Seville Cathedral and the Alcazar are located there), plenty of souvenir shops, coffee shops and restaurants everywhere. You guessed it: it’s the most touristic part of the city.
• The Plaza de España: This auditorium-shaped square, with bridges spanning over a canal and azujelos-decorated benches is the most beautiful I’ve ever seen!
• The Maria Luisa park:  located right next to the Plaza de España, it’s the ideal spot to walk around and get some fresh air.

You can find detailed information about Seville in my article: The 15 best things to do in Seville .

If you plan to visit Seville, but also Cordoba and Granada during your road trip in Andalusia , you should buy the Andalusia Pass, also called “Best of Andalusia Card”.

It allows you to visit the 3 main tourist sites of Andalusia while saving a lot of time and money!

It includes:

• A skip the line ticket for the Alcazar of Seville
• A skip the line ticket for the Alhambra of Granada and the Nasrid palaces
• A guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
• An audio guide for Seville and Granada, to download on your smartphone.

To book your Andalusia Pass , you just have to click on the button below:

Located only 40 min away from Seville by train, Cordoba is a must-see on a trip to Andalucia .

What to do in Cordoba?

• Visit the Mosque Cathedral of Cordoba (book here): If you just have time to visit one site in Cordoba, you should head to the mosque-cathedral. The interior, with its red and white arcades is really unique.
• Discover the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos . In the past, this place has been the residence of catholic kings, the Inquisition headquarter and even a prison. Its magnificent gardens are worth the visit! In my opinion, these gardens are even more beautiful than Seville Alcazar ones.
• Go for a walk in the Jewish quarter: don’t miss “la calleja de las Flores” (flowers’ street), the synagogue  and San Bartolomé chapel.
• Cross the Roman bridge to enjoy the view over the mosque-cathedral and the old city. It’s even better at sunset!

Cordoba was one of my favorite places to visit during my stay in Andalucia.

You will find every information you need to visit Cordoba in my article: The 15 best things to do in Cordoba.

With the Andalusia Pass I mentioned above, you can enjoy a guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba . You need to buy it directly by clicking here!

Seville, Cordoba and now Granada , we have our trio of must-see cities in Andalucia!

Granada also has its own emblematic historical monument: the world-famous Alhambra . This stunning palace and fortress complex is one of the most emblematic monuments of Islamic architecture . After the gardens in the Alcazar of Seville and Cordoba, brace yourself for the spectacular Generalife gardens !

The site welcomes “only” 3300 visitors in the morning , and another 3300 in the afternoon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most visited monument in Spain . So you get it, you must book your tickets in advance if you want to visit the Alhambra.

Other points of interest in Granada, Andalucia: 

• San Nicolas mirador and San Miguel Alto mirador, for their stunning scenic view
• The Albaicin neighborhood to attend a street flamenco performance
• Granada cathedral and the Catholic Kings Museum
• The Sacromonte neighborhood and its famous troglodyte houses, the “cuevas”.

If you want more information about Granada, you should read my detailed article: The 15 best things to do in Granada .

If you are planning to visit Seville and Cordoba in addition to Granada, don’t forget that the Andalusia Pass is the best solution to save time and money!

Ronda is another top place to visit in Andalucia.

This lovely small village is located on top of a hill, dominating the whole valley. The main attraction there is the Puente Nuevo (“New Bridge” in English), you’ll see it on every postcards! It connects the old and new town , spanning over the river and valley.

If you want to take the perfect picture, go to the Plaza Maria Auxiliadora, and take the path going down to the 2 viewpoints over the bridge.

In Ronda, you can also visit:

• Ronda Arena
• Mondragon Palace
• the bandit museum
• La Casa del Rey Moro (“House of the Moorish King” in English).

If you want more details about the best things to do in Ronda, you should read my article: Visit Ronda: the definitive guide.

Among all the things to do in Andalucia, you really should do a road trip on the White villages Route . The most famous road of Andalucia will take you to the most beautiful villages and countryside spots.

Most of the White Villages, or “Pueblos Blancos” , are located uphill. In the past, that was the best protection against a potential enemy attack!

If all the houses are white, it’s for a good reason: it helps to keep their inside relatively cool during the hot Andalusian summers. You will see, these villages are very charming with their narrow streets and balconies covered with flowers.

Where to stop on the Route of the White Villages:

• Arcos de la Frontera:  you’ll see nice churches there and the Castle of Arcos de la Frontera. The scenic view from the mirador is breathtaking. Arcos is the highest White Village.
• Grazalema: for its 3 miradors and their scenic view over the village and the Sierra de Grazalema
• Zahara de la Sierra: it’s one of the most typical and most beautiful White Villages, with remains of a castle and a breathtaking view over the turquoise lake below
• Setenil de las Bodegas: A very special Andalusian White village, most of the houses are troglodytes. They are carved in a gigantic rock.

What else can you do in Andalucia besides visiting cities? Go hiking! 

Sierra de Grazalema natural park is a great place for hiking. It’s located in Cadiz and Malaga provinces, close to Arcos and Zahara villages.

There are many hiking trails in this park, you will need to choose one (or several!) depending on your fitness level, your interest and also the time of the year (some hiking paths are closed in the summer because of fire hazard).

For more information, there are 3 visitor center located in El Bosque, Zahara de la Sierra and Ubrique . You should check with them before, as some trails require getting a special authorization beforehand.

If you’re going to the park on a hot day, I recommend the  “El rio Majaceite” path:  it’s an easy hike, about 4 hours roundtrip , departing from El bosque and going along the river.

The path is in the shade , and you can also take advantage of the nearby river to freshen up. It’s a popular place among Andalusian families to picnic on Sundays.

You’re a culture enthusiast ? Then you should definitely go visit Malaga !

Beside being a top beach destination in Andalucia, Malaga is also full of interesting cultural sites and museums:

• Picasso Birthplace Museum (get you tickets here) : The legendary artist was born in that house in 1881. You’ll learn more about his life, his work and will see some of his personal belongings.
• Centre Pompidou Malaga , is a branch of the famous Centre Pompidou in Paris with several pieces of contemporary art
• Carmen Thyssen Museum   with its extensive collection of Spanish and Andalusian paintings
• Russian Art Museum   offers a collection of Russian art pieces in an old tobacco factory.

You should also definitely visit Malaga fortress: the Alcazaba. 

And to enjoy a stunning scenic view over the whole city and the port, head to Gibralfaro castle.

You will find every information you need to visit Malaga in my article: The 15 best things to do in Malaga.

Close to Malaga, “El Caminito del Rey” path is one the most spectacular natural sites in Andalusia.

To go there, you will need to be a bit adventurous. Until 2015, date of its full renovation, this hiking path was considered the most dangerous one in the world! Hopefully, today it is completely up to safety standards.

Located in El Chorro gorge,  it was once used to transport equipment for the 2 neighbouring hydroelectric power stations. It was made of simple wooden pontoons directly fixed on the cliffs with no guardrail . After several deadly incidents, the path was closed in 2000 and opened again only in 2015.

Nowadays, it’s totally safe to hike on this path located 100 meters above the ground , but it’s still very impressive. Before starting, think about it twice if you have the fear of heights, as once you start, you can’t go back . The path is only one way, from North to South, so you’ll have to reach the end!

If it makes you feel safer, you can always choose to do a guided hike in the Caminito . The guide will give you more information about the location and its history. You need to book your guided hike in advance here because these are often fully booked weeks in advance.

Cadiz might not be considered a top destination in Andalucia compared to cities like Seville or Granada, yet it’s a great place to visit. I actually loved this less touristic city, where you don’t have to wait forever under the sun to get inside the monuments.

Here are Cadiz must-see attractions:

• The Plaza de San Juan de Dios, where the city hall and the San Juan de Dios church are located. It’s very charming, with lots coffee shops and restaurants.
• The Roman theater , entrance is free!
• Cadiz cathedral go to the top of the bell tower to enjoy a scenic view over the city
• San Sebastian castle and Santa Catalina castle, both located next to the sea
• La Caleta beach to take a dip.

You want to learn more about the best things to do in Cadiz? Have a look at my article: Visit Cadiz: the definitive guide .

Doñana national park  is the perfect destination to take a break from historical monuments visits and enjoy a bit of nature. Located in Huelva province, the park is about 1 hour driving from Seville and 50 min from Cadiz.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most protected areas of Europe. It’s definitely a great place to observe wildlife: if you’re lucky, you can see flamingos, deers, birds and maybe even an Iberian lynx, an endangered species.

In the park, you can take a stroll on one of the hiking paths. You’ll find more information about available itineraries in one of the visitor centers located in Matalascañas (Huelva), Villamanrique de la Condesa (Seville) or in Sanlúcar de Barrameda (Cadiz).

The park is very large, so you can also go around biking, horse-riding, by boat or even on an off-road bus or a 4WD. For the 4WD tour, your guide will take you to the best parts of the park, and you may even see a lynx! You must book the tour in advance here.

You’re looking for the most beautiful beaches in Andalucia? You like to party?

Then Marbella is the perfect destination for you!

This high-end seaside resort located in the Costa Del Sol has everything you dream for: 27 km of beaches, many prestigious villas, luxury stores, coffee shops and fancy nightclubs! Marbella is a very famous party destination for wealthy tourists.

To get a glimpse of all of this luxury, you can go to Puerto Banus marina to see some of the most luxurious yachts in the world . During summer, celebrities from all over the world stop by Marbella to enjoy the beaches and nightlife.

If you’re not interested in all this glitz and glamour, there is also a lovely historic center with flowery houses in Marbella.

You can of course also enjoy an afternoon at the beach: Cabopino beach, also called Artola Dunes is the most famous one. The beach is protected from the wind and has shallow and crystal clear water.

If you’ve been to all major cities in the region and are looking for another place to visit in Andalucia, head to Jerez de la Frontera. 

Not far from Cadiz, the city is known for its wine, the famous Sherry wine. More than 20 wineries and cellars are located in the city, and some of them offer guided tours with wine tastings.

If you want to do a guided tour of some of the most famous Jerez bodegas and of course taste the wine, you will need to book it here . 

The most famous tourist attraction is Jerez is the show of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art . For 90 min, you’ll enjoy several choreographies performed along traditional Spanish music .

If you want to attend one of the best equestrian show in the world , you need to book it there.

Wondering about the best things to do in Andalucia with children? If you’re in Andalucia on family vacation, you should go on a day trip to Nerja caves. 

The caves were discovered by chance in 1959 by students who were looking for bats. They are 4km long but only bout a third is open to visitors.

Unless most caves where only guided tours are possible, you can visit Nerja caves freely. However, only a certain amount of visitors are allowed inside every 30 min.

You can get an audio guide to learn more about the history of the caves and their discovery. Allow about 45min for the visit . Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and a jacket: it’s always cold in caves, even during summertime!

During your visit, you will be able to access several halls, such as the Cataclysm Hall where you can see one of the tallest and largest columns in the world . Torca Hall and its numerous cave paintings is also worth a look.

You need to book your tickets to visit the caves of Nerja in advance by clicking here!

If you’re visiting Andalucia during summer and it’s a bit too hot for your taste, you should go to the Sierra Nevada and the Alpujarras. It’s t he highest mountains range in Spain, with over twenty peaks above 3000 meters.

It’s never too hot in this mountainous region (even in the summer) and above all, you will discover a wilder and less touristic side of Andalucia . The Alpujarras villages are renowned for their picturesque and timeless character.

You’ve guessed it, the Sierra Nevada is an amazing place to hike in the mountain . You can also go climbing, paragliding, mountain biking or horse-riding.

If you’re visiting Andalucia during winter, you’ll be able to ski on some the 105km of ski slopes available , while enjoying a stunning view over Granada and the sea!

Gibraltar is located south of Andalucia . Did you know that even if it’s located in Spain, Gibraltar is in fact part of the United-Kingdom ? It also means that you need to cross a border to go there and waiting time is usually quite long if you go by car.

It really feels like a southern part of England, with English signs, English style phone booths and buses and (of course) English pubs . Gibraltar also has its own currency: the Gibraltar Pound , an equivalent to the British Pound. You’ll have to exchange your Euros once you get there. 

An absolute must-see in Gibraltar is the Upper Rock . You can go there on foot, by car or by cable car. In any case, you’ll have to cross right in the middle of the airport , where there are traffic lights to regulate traffic between planes, cars and pedestrians!!!

At the Upper Rock, you should check out these attractions:

• Saint Michael Cave: It was used as a hospital during World War 2. Nowadays, you can attend sound and light shows there.
• The famous monkeys! There are more than 200 monkeys walking freely on the rock. Be careful with your belongings and don’t bring food.
• The Great Siege Tunnels carved inside the rock.
• The Moorish Castle, with only a single tower still standing.

Cabo de Gata Natural Park is the largest coast and land protected area of all the Mediterranean region . Of volcanic origin, it offers several types of landscapes ranging from beautiful beaches and coves to wilder desert style landscapes.

What to do in Cabo Park, Andalucia: 

• Hiking on one of the many marked paths
• Scuba diving 
• Go on a boat tour
• Take a dip at one of the world-famous beaches of Cabo de Gata, such as  Las Salinas or Los Muertos
• Birdwatching (mainly flamingos) in the salt pans
• Explore the small fishermen villages of Las Negras or San José

Located North of Almeria, Tabernas deser t is the largest arid desert in Europe.

It’s a famous place in Andalucia because many Spaghetti Western movies had been filmed there , such as “ The Good, the Bad and the Ugly ” or “A fistful of dollars”. Other famous movies like “ Lawrence of Arabia ” and “Indiana Jones” were also filmed there.

In Tabernas, you should visit Fort Bravo (also called Texas Hollywwod). It was one of the villages built to serve as a set for an American Western movie , and it was kept as is afterwards. You can visit the saloon and even attend a duel between the sherif and a bandit!

And if you don’t want to miss any of the breathtaking landscapes of Tabernas desert, you can also visit the desert with a guide. You can’t book it online, you will need to ask your hotel to arrange it for you.

If you’re spending some time in Andalucia, you can also visit Ubeda and Baeza (Jaén province), 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites . Quite unusual here, these villages are filled with renaissance style monuments!

Lost in the middle of olive tree fields and located only 8km from each other, the two villages maintained a very authentic charm . They are quite different from other traditional Andalusian villages and their whitewashed houses.

here are the best places to see in Ubeda, Andalucia:

• The Sacra Capilla del Salvador: a true jewel of Spanish renaissance
• The Vazquez de Molina palace, it’s nowadays the city hall
• The Dean Ortega palace, built in the 16th century
• The Basílica de Santa María de los Reales Alcázares

Must-see attractions in Baeza:

• Visit the Baeza cathedral
• Discover the Jabalquinto palace
• Go see Saint John Church 
• Walk around the Plaza del Populo

You want to embrace Andalusian culture? Then you should definitely attend a Flamenco show!

This art was born here during the 17th century, and is still today a very important part of Andalucia’s culture and history. Coming from the gypsy culture, Flamenco is a mix of 3 arts: singing, dancing and guitar. 

There’s nothing easier than attending a flamenco show in Andalucia, they’re everywhere, even on the streets.

• In Seville , you should go to  “Los Gallos” tablao (the place where Flamenco shows are taking place), the oldest one in the city with a lineup of international artists. The show at the  Museo del Baile Flamenco is also very good and pretty affordable! To attend this show, you need to book your tickets here.
• In Granada , the best Flamenco shows are taking places in the “ cuevas” of the traditional Sacromonte neighborhood. You can book your tickets directly here.
• In Cordoba as well, you can see an excellent show in a beautiful building at the “ Flamenco Cardenal” tablao.

Today, Flamenco is considered one of the main tourist attractions in Andalucia.

During your trip to Andalucia, you will also probably want to discover local gastronomy.

And as you’re in Spain, it’s no surprise that you’ll probably eat lots of tapas during your stay.

Wherever you are in Seville, Granada, Ronda or even the smallest village, you won’t be able to miss tapas, they’re everywhere! From classic recipes to more unique ones, tapas are a real staple of Andalusian cuisine. 

Each restaurant has its own specialities , so Spanish people often go to several bars on the same night. There’s even a word for it:  “tapear”!

Malaga and Granada cities are known to offer amazing tapas. In Granada, it’s a tradition that when you order a drink, it always comes with tapas. There is a real competition to offer the most unique and best presented tapas.

Some classic tapas are the Russian salad (potatoes, tuna and corn), croquetas and tortillas.

According to the well-known saying, Andalucia is the perfect place “to go tapas” (“tapear” in Spanish)!

And you, what do you plan to do in Andalucia? Which point of interests would you like to visit? 

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Andalucia, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your sea trip in Andalusia? 😊

Andalucia travel Guides

• Buy the DK Eyewitness Andalusia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Lonely Planet Andalusia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Snapshot Andalusia guide on Amazon.com

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

• Cadiz: The 12 things you must-see in town!
• Cordoba: Top 15 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Granada: Top 15 best things to do
• Malaga: The 15 best places to visit
• Ronda: The 10 best things to do
• Seville: Top 15 best things to do and places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Happy Andalucia Day! 10 amazing facts about Spain’s southernmost region

TODAY is Andalucia Day, a regional public holiday where Andalucians come together to celebrate the region’s rich culture, history and heritage.

Here are ten fascinating facts about Spain’s southernmost region:

1. Dia de Andalucia, celebrated every year on February 28, commemorates an historic 1980 referendum in which the Andalucian electorate voted to become an autonomous community of Spain.

The decision gave the region its own Parliament and elected president, and granted the region with political autonomy over education, health, environment, policing, culture, social security and economic development.

Andalucia also established its own anthem – The Green and White Flag – flag and capital city, Sevilla.

The region’s coat of arms includes Roman hero Hercules who, according to popular legend, used his superhuman strength to smash the Atlas Mountains in two, creating the Strait of Gibraltar with the Rock of Gibraltar on one side, and Jebel Musa in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on the other.

2. Andalucia is the birthplace of tapas, the mini-portions of Mediterranean food that typify Spanish gastronomy.

Legend has it that back in the 19th century, Alfonso XIII was travelling through the region when he stopped off at a taverna in Cadiz.

He received a glass of wine with a slice of ham on top, which the bamboozled king was told was used as a cover to keep the wind from blowing dust into his vino.

The king enjoyed the ham so much that he decreed that all tavernas should tapas from that day on – ‘tapa’ literally translates as a ‘cover’ or ‘lid’.

3. Cadiz, the coastal settlement where Alfonso XIII reportedly discovered the joys of tapas, has another claim to fame – it is Europe’s oldest city.

Situated on a narrow slice of land surrounded by the sea, Cadiz was established as a key port by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC. 

Its strategic position, facing out towards the Atlantic, gave Cadiz a virtual monopoly on trade arriving from the Americas until 1778.

Its old town – the Casco Antiguo – preserves many of the landmarks seen centuries beforehand.

4 As Spain’s southernmost region, it may be no surprise to learn that it is also the nation’s hottest.

Renowned for blistering summers that force locals to flock to the coast, temperatures regularly hit blistering highs.

Andalucia holds claim to Spain’s all-time temperature record – a reading of a sizzling 47.6C (117.7F) was made in La Rambla, Cordoba, in the summer of 2021.

Only Italy, thanks to a 48.8C high in Sicily one day beforehand, has seen greater heat on the European continent.

5 Andalucia’s piping hot microclimate is aided by its mountainous geography which acts as a barrier to cold winds coming from the north.

In fact, mountains cover over half of Andalucia’s total surface area, with ranges such as the Sierra Nevada providing some of Spain’s most beautiful scenery.

Mulhacen, based in the aforementioned range, is Spain’s highest mainland mountain at 3,482 metres (11,424 ft).

6 With its year-round warm weather, Andalucia can often make the perfect destination for tourists wanting a beach holiday.

But for those who fancy a sporting adventure, the region is perfect too.

With almost 120 golf courses littered across its eight provinces, Andalucia has the highest concentration of golfing facilities in Europe.

Over half a million tourists travel to the region each year in order to play, making Andalucia Europe’s most visited golf destination.

7 As a cultural heartland, Andalucia has been the breeding ground for dozens of individuals who have gone on to make their mark worldwide.

Famous Andalucians include: actor Antonio Banderas, artists Pablo Picasso and Diego Velazquez, footballers Fernando Hierro and Sergio Ramos, dictator Miguel Primo de Rivera, poet Federico Garcia Lorca, golfer Miguel Angel Jimenez, Ibn Hazm, Maria Zambrano, Bartolome de las Casas and musical duo Los del Rio.

8 Andalucia’s arid, mountainous territory has seen it used in a wide range of movies – including Spaghetti Westerns, the term coined for Western movies filmed in Europe.

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly , directed by Sergio Leone and starring Clint Eastwood, was mostly filmed in Almeria.

9  Do you or any of your relatives enjoy a glass of Sherry, perhaps after Christmas dinner?

If so, you have the Andalucians to thank as the wine is made from white grapes grown near the town of Jerez de la Frontera in the province of Cadiz.

In 1586, British sailor Sir Francis Drake plundered the region, taking thousands of barrels back to England as his prize.

The name Sherry is in fact an anglicised version of the town name ‘Jerez’. 

10 As anyone who has ever sat in one of the thousands of tapas bars stretched across Andalucia, the region is famed for its food.

But did you know one of its iconic sights is a leading inspiration for a British delicacy?

Sevilla oranges, notoriously bitter, are the principal ingredient in English marmalade.

• What shops will open on Andalucia Day in Spain tomorrow? All you need to know
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• Huge ‘crystal lagoon’ is coming to this major city in Spain’s Andalucia – featuring artificial beaches and water sports

• Andalucia Day
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• The Olive Press

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Ben Pawlowski

Ben joined the Olive Press in January 2024 after a four-month stint teaching English in Paraguay. He loves the adrenaline rush of a breaking news story and the tireless work required to uncover an eye-opening exclusive. He is currently based in Barcelona from where he covers the city, the wider Catalunya region, and the north of Spain. Send tips to [email protected]

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The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

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South of Spain Road Trip Guide

Andalucia epitomizes southern Spain; vibrant, colorful, and passionate . This ultimate Andalucia road trip itinerary will take you to the major cities and best places to visit, bringing this gorgeous part of Spain alive.

Andalucia is Spain’s most southerly region, heavy with Moorish influence, which is evident in the wonderful food and architecture, beautiful and romantic cities, the passion of flamenco, and its iconic Pueblo Blancos   set amidst stunning landscapes that you won’t want to leave.

We have spent years visiting and traveling in Andalucia, and in this road trip planner, we share travel tips, the best route between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, side trips, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect road trip through Andalucia.

Is this your first time visiting Spain? Get all the information you need in our Spain Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Where is Andalucia?

Sometimes called Andalusia (the Anglicised name), Andalucia is the southernmost autonomous community in peninsular Spain. Arguably Spain’s most famous region, Andalucia stretches from the border with Portugal in the west to the border with Murcia in the east, and nearly 300km / 186 miles north into Spain’s mountainous interior.

Andalucia has coasts on both the wild Atlantic, and gentler Mediterranean Sea and enjoys five costas ; Costa del Sol; Costa de la Luz (Huelva and Cadiz); Costa Tropical, and Costa de Almería, and each has its own distinct character.

Getting to Andalucia

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Andalucia in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to road trip southern Spain.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into   Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the perfect place to start your roadtrip in southern Spain. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through  Skyscanner  for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Andalucia? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning an Andalusian road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Spain. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Andalucía Road Trip Map & Itinerary

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Andalucia
• Rough Guide to Andalucia
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Andalucía and the Costa del Sol
• Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary

Malaga – Marbella – Ronda – Cadiz – Jerez de la Frontera – Seville – Carmona – Ecija – Antequera – Cordoba – Granada – Nerja – Malaga

• Distance: 1041km
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 14 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Spain . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

The first stop on this 10-14 day road trip is Malaga. Pick up your rental car or campervan at Malaga Airport and within an hour you’ll be at your hotel or on the road.

Malaga has lots to do  with a lively city centre busy with bars, restaurants, cafes, and people. Don’t be put off by the high-rise buildings and billboards, look beyond and you will find a charming and historic city famous for its warm welcome.

In regal Malaga’s old town, you’ll find La Alcazaba, an ancient fortress dating back to the 700s, as well as the cathedral and several pretty churches. Another must-see is the Mercado de Atarazana , one of the best fresh food markets in Andalucia. Make your way to El Bar de los Pueblos, opposite the market to the left as you face the main entrance, for fantastic and authentic tapas.

Malaga comes to life on the seafront and is a popular place for Malaguenos to go for a stroll after siesta time, which is a fiercely protected custom in the south of Spain. Come to the seafront after 5pm and you’ll find whole families out, enjoying the sunshine and stopping for a beer and tapa along the paseo , even during the Spanish winter .

If you’re feeling energetic after all the eating, then head into the lush hills of the Montes de Malaga to the 10th century Castillo de Gibralfaro , for a great view of the city, port, and coastline. From the Alcazaba, it’s a 30 minute uphill walk – if that’s a bit too energetic, the Malaga hop-on hop-off bus also visits the Castillo .

Malaga is also the perfect base for a day trip to the stunning Caminito del Rey, the once-hidden Gorge of Gaitanes, which is deep in the hinterland. It’s a 50km trip to El Chorro, where the route takes you along suspended walkways through an impossibly narrow gorge – expect fantastic views, fascinating rock formations, and lots of other people!

We highly recommend this Caminito del Rey guided tour from Malaga , where a bus will take you to the start of the hike, and you will learn the real story behind the construction of this great work of engineering from your guide.

If you don’t have much time, here is where you switch up the itinerary and take a Malaga to Seville road trip! From Seville head to Cordoba and then Granada, for a perfect Andalucia itinerary in 7 days.

Our Tip: For real Malaga, head to the Pedregalejo district where you will find freshly caught grilled seafood being served from chiringuitos  on the beach.

• Where to Stay in Malaga

Upmarket: Vincci Selección Posada del Patio – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Molina Lario – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Debambú Atarazanas – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

2. Marbella

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun on one of the three immaculately kept beaches and enjoying the people-watching. The days of big celebrities here are long gone, but there is still a touch of glitz and glamour to enjoy.

Visit the charming old town and head for Plaza de los Naranjos at the center of the casco antiguo and enjoy a coffee whilst watching the world go by, or head to the artisan boutiques and upmarket shops which surround the pretty square.

Or, if you like things organized for you, enjoy this highly-rated guided walk of Marbella’s historic centre where you get to try traditional tapas, local wine, and olive oils as you go.

If you have a few extra days, add to your Costa del Sol road trip by staying on the coast road and enjoying the pretty towns and beaches, until you reach Estepona. From here you can head north and explore Andalucia off the beaten track, through the stunning Natural Park Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja, to reach Ronda.

Our Tip: For lunch, find  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  for freshly homemade tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

• Where to Stay in Marbella

Upmarket: Nobu Hotel Marbella – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Amare Beach Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Ona Alanda Club Marbella – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip or check out our favorite road trips in Europe for inspiration!

The drive from Marbella to Ronda is stunning, one of the best during this road trip in Andalucia. Situated between the natural parks of the Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de las Nieves, Ronda sits in a bowl surrounded by dramatic mountains.

As you head to Ronda, take a detour to the blue village of Júzcar , in the Valle del Genal. The village was a pueblo blanco until 2011 when it was asked to paint itself blue to promote The Smurfs movie!

Ronda is divided by the huge 120m deep river gorge of El Tajo, which is spanned by the stunning arched bridge of Puente Nuevo. The bridge is best seen from the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro , where you’ll find lush and fragrant gardens and a spectacular view. For a more exciting view, tackle the vertical walls of the Tajo del Ronda using the via Ferrata route with a guide !

Bull-fighting is a divisive sport but a passion of the Spanish people, and the Plaza de Toros bullring in Ronda is architecturally spectacular. It’s interesting to learn the history of the corrida, in the well-laid-out and informative museum.

Understanding the love and admiration Spaniards have for the matadors’ courage and showmanship is key to understanding their love of bullfighting. 

From Ronda, you are perfectly situated to take day trips to the iconic Pueblos Blancos or White Towns in the surrounding mountains, where you’ll find some of the best and most beautiful of the small villages. 

Just north of Ronda are two such white villages: Zahara de la Sierra and Setenil de las Bodegas. Both are worth visiting, and the latter is known for its whitewashed houses built into the surrounding cliffs and that famous image, the one with the huge rock covering half the narrow street and its houses.

Our Tip: For a spectacularly scenic drive from Ronda, set your sat nav for Zahara de la Sierra and then pick up the twisting CA-9104 road to the tiny village of Grazalema, which climbs to the Puerto de Las Palomas (Pass of the Pigeons), at 1180m it’s a spectacular drive and worth the fuel to get there!

From Grazalema, pick up the A-372 across the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park to Arcos de la Frontera, and from there the A-382 and E5 to Cadiz.

• Where to Stay in Ronda

Upmarket: Molino Del Santo – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Catalonia Ronda – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Sierra Hidalga – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Spain.

The famous faded splendor of the sea city of  Cadiz  is caused by the effect the sea air has on its architecture, leading to the facades of buildings crumbling and bleaching.

This imbues Cadiz with a sombreness that contradicts the true character of the city. In fact, Cadiz is known for its party vibe, especially during carnival, one of the naughtiest in Spain!

Almost completely surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Cadiz is a fabulous city for simply wandering and soaking up the ambiance. Narrow buildings with painted facades, twisting back streets, pretty flower-filled squares, and a few fabulous churches await you.

Take a guided tour of medieval Cadiz , and see all the city’s landmarks, including the Neoclassical and Baroque cathedral and its museum, the Roman theater in the area known as the Pópulo, and structures dating back as far as the Phoenician era.

End the day by watching a perfect sunset from Playa de la Caleta, situated right in the old town.  

Head out for food and you’ll find it’s all about fish!  Whether you fancy picking your fish and having it cooked for you at Mercado Central de Abastos, or you’re looking for a plate of fabulous  fresh tapas for dinner with a fino sherry  or locally caught seafood, you’ll find it in Cadiz. 

• Where to Stay in Cadiz

Upmarket: Hotel Monte Puertatierra – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Casual con Duende – Booking.com | Agoda

Costa de la Luz Side Trip

If you have extra time, Cadiz is a wonderful halfway base for a few days. Explore more or take a day trip to the aptly named Costa de la Luz, which extends south to Tarifa, the most southern point of mainland Europe, and north to the port city of Huelva.

Off the beaten path to the south are beautiful beaches dotted with chiringuitos serving locally caught fish, pretty white villages like Vejer de la Frontera, quietly unassuming yet packed with history and architectural gems, and the fabulous Cape Trafalgar, the site of the 1805 naval Battle of Trafalgar, in which the British Royal Navy commanded by Admiral Horatio Nelson decisively defeated Napoleon’s combined Spanish and French fleet.

Head north for Christopher Columbus history in La Rábida, where you can see life-sized replicas of the ships he sailed across the Atlantic for the New World (and they are tiny ) and the Monasterio de Santa María de la Rábida, where the explorer stayed as he was preparing for the trip.

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5. jerez de la frontera.

Jerez de la Frontera has been the home of sherry since the 14th century. The particular local soil, climate, and grape variety combine to create this complex and often delicious fortified wine which can only be produced in the so-called ‘sherry triangle’, which holds the Denominacion de Origin of Jerez y Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

The nearby towns of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María are the other points of the triangle, which is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the majestic Guadalquivir River, and the beautiful Cádiz Sierra mountains.

All sherry is made from three green grapes only: Palomino, Moscatel, and Pedro Ximenez. The wine is aged and blended using a system called solera y criadera , a process for aging liquids by fractional blending so that the finished product is a mixture of ages. There are some sherry bodegas with soleras dating back hundreds of years, so with every sip you’re drinking a little bit of history.

You cannot go to Jerez without  visiting a bodega and taking a tour with a tasting session   at the end to understand how this often misunderstood drink is created. Be prepared though – there are seven types of sherry ranging from the very dry Fino to the sticky sweet Pedro Ximenez, my favorite!

As well as sherry, Jerez is also famous for its flamenco tradition. Flamenco literally means ‘hell-raising’ and when you watch this steamy and seductive dance you’ll understand why!

Considered an art form in Spain, you’ll find flamenco clubs aplenty in the narrow streets of the Barrio de Santiago quarter, but it’s probably easier to book a live flamenco show in advance – instead of getting lost in the narrow twisting alleys looking for a bodega , you’ll have the best seats in town!

• Where to Stay in Jerez de la Frontera

Upmarket: Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Villa Jerez – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Suites Alfonso X – Booking.com | Agoda

Are you looking for more Spanish road trips? Get the best itineraries to see northern Spain and the cities of Barcelona, Valencia & Madrid in our guide to the best road trips in Spain .

The Andalus capital of Seville is a gloriously beautiful city and is just as you expect it to be. Hot, passionate, loud, and colorful, this city is unashamedly flamboyant. And it just happens to be our favorite place in Spain.

In the old town, you’ll find three of Seville’s best attractions; Seville Cathedral in all its Gothic splendor, the imposing Giralda Tower, and the stunning Alcazar. It’s highly recommended to visit all three for a real taste of Seville’s fascinating history .  

The UNESCO Seville Cathedral or Santa Maria de la Sede , occupies the original site of the great Aljama mosque, built in the late 12th century. The only remaining parts are the Patio de Naranjas, the Puerta del Perdon, and the Giralda Belltower which was formerly the minaret.

The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, as well as the world’s third largest church, the spectacular Seville Cathedral, is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who set sail for the New World from Huelva, a city and province of Andalucia that abuts Portugal.

Havana, Cuba, and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic all claim to hold the remains of Cristobal Colon, as he is known in Spain but recent DNA tests proved beyond doubt that this tomb is the final resting place of the great explorer, who died in poverty in Valladolid in 1506.

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is a stunning historic royal palace formerly the site of the Islamic-era citadel of the city, was first constructed in the 10th century and then developed into a larger palace complex by the Abbadid and Almohad dynasties. After the Castilian conquest of the city in 1248, the Alcazar was rebuilt and replaced by new richly decorated Mudéjar-style palaces built by Pedro I during the 1360s.

Just south of here in the Parque de María Luisa is the lively Plaza de España which was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929.

With half a mile of tiled fountains and pavilions lushly planted with palms, orange trees, Mediterranean pines, and stylized flower beds, Plaza de Espana is a great place to wander and people-watch, as you take a boat out on the small lake, catch some live flamenco and Spanish guitar, or admire the beautifully tiled alcoves, each representing a different province of Spain.

Right next to the old town, you’ll find the narrow alleys of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the heart of Seville’s lively tapas culture offering some of the best plates in Andalucia. 

Sevillanos eat their tapas standing at the bar with a small beer or sherry but why not take a seat and watch the world go by to make the most of the atmosphere on the streets? Go slowly though, you could easily spend a small fortune on plate after plate of delicious tapas!

In the busy shopping streets of the Centro quarter to the north, you’ll find the contemporary Metropol Parasol, a huge wooden structure that is reported to be the largest in the world. This gorgeous wooden structure is shaped like a fluid parasol and shades much of the square in which it stands.

At the top of the viewing platform, you can admire its form and design whilst enjoying fantastic rooftop views of the Seville city center.

For more travel tips and information check out this  one day in Seville itinerary or book an e-bike tour of Seville with a local guide , it’s a great way to see the city!

Our Tip: There are over 40,000 orange trees lining the streets of Seville, and the frangrance of azahar (orange blossom fills the air in spring. If you visit in winter you’ll see the fruit dropping to the pavements, free for people to pick up. But don’t try eating one, these are sour Seville oranges used to make bitter marmalade and they taste pretty disgusting!

• Where to Stay in Seville

Upmarket: Hotel Casa Del Poeta – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Rey Alfonso X – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Zenit Sevilla – Booking.com | Agoda

From Seville, head towards your next stop of Carmona, nestled in the hills and olive groves between Seville and Cordoba, and one of the oldest towns in Europe.

The main attraction is the Roman ruins a short drive west of Carmona. These ancient ruins comprise of a 1st century amphitheater and Roman burial ground, the Necropolis Romana. The Necropolis was discovered and excavated in the 19th century and holds several tombs and family mausoleums from the 1st Century BCE to 2 CE. There is also a small museum on site.

About 30 minutes after leaving Carmona, stop at the small town of Ecija. This was a Roman city that later became Visigoth and Moorish, before being reconquered by the Castilian king Ferdinand III in 1240, when it became Christian.

Ecija has plenty of monuments of interest such as the Palaces of Benameji, Peñaflor, Valdehermoso, Palma, and Santaella, seven convents dating from the 16th to 18th century, and six churches!

Rich in history and Moorish architecture, Cordoba is an intimate and atmospheric city, most famous for the ancient Mezquita (mosque-cathedral).

La Mezquita is a remarkable building, the result of a mosque built well over a thousand years ago and added to numerous times before being consecrated as a Catholic cathedral in 1248 by the conquistadors who freed Spain from the rule of the Moors in the same year.

The result is an eclectic mix of Moorish and Renaissance architecture that blends to create a cathedral unlike any other in the world and is the one place you must visit in Cordoba.

Take a  Mezquita guided tour with skip-the-line tickets  to fully appreciate the history of this incredible building, and if you can, book a slot to climb the bell tower at sunset, the views are really spectacular.

The gardens of the Alcazar provide contrast and relief from the, at times, overwhelming Mezquita. With sparkling water, tall palms, and cypress trees, this is a perfect spot to stop for an hour or so before taking a stroll across the beautiful Roman Bridge, thought to be built in the 1st or 2nd century, for a fabulous view of the old town. 

Meander through the Jewish quarter where you’ll find narrow lanes and pretty squares. Many of the whitewashed houses are covered in blooms from window boxes filled with colorful trailing geraniums in summer, providing the perfect images of this gorgeous city. 

Our Tip: Don’t go out for dinner until at least 9pm, or you’ll be eating in an empty restaurant with no ambiance at all! Make sure to try a Fitifiti after dinner. A mix of sweet dessert wine like sherry or local montilla mixed with white wine, this is a popular digestif in Cordoba.

• Where to Stay in Cordoba

Upmarket: Las Casas de la Juderia – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Balcón de Córdoba – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: La Boutique Puerta Osario – Booking.com | Agoda

Jaén Side Trip

Well off the beaten path and a 90 minute long drive from Cordoba, Jaén hosts a cultural heritage and diverse architectural legacy that reflects the coexistence over centuries of three major cultures: Christian, Jewish, and Moorish.

Jaén’s historic Jewish quarter is a tapestry of pretty squares, remarkable historical churches built on top of old mosques, palaces, and Arabian baths, scattered with bars and restaurants. The Cathedral is an architectural jewel of the Spanish Renaissance and the Castillo de Santa Catalina , which overlooks the city and can be seen from anywhere, is another architectural gem that offers extraordinary views of the city and the surrounding areas.

Jaén is perhaps best known as the world capital of olive oil. As the largest producer of this precious liquid gold, the city’s traditional cuisine is always prepared with extra virgin olive oil, and Jaén-style Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed in the restaurants, taverns, and tapas bars of the city.

10. Antequera

As you head to Granada, stop in Antequera, deep in the heart of Andalusia, home to over fifty monuments and archaeological sites of extraordinary importance.

The Antequera Dolmens have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of their fine quality and exceptional state of conservation. A fascinating example of megalithic construction, the Menga Dolmen is six thousand years old and is an enormous passage tomb formed by huge slabs of rock that lead to the burial chamber. The Viera Dolmens and El Romeral complete the prehistoric ensemble.

When you visit the Dolmens you can look northeast to the limestone crag of Peña de los Enamorados or Lover’s Rock that resembles a prone fave. Legend has it that two star-crossed lovers ran away together and were chased by Moorish soldiers to the top of the rock, where, rather than renounce their love or be captured, they chose to hurl themselves over the edge holding hands.

Our Tip: Time your visit for 21st June, the summer solstice, when the sun rises over the peak of the Lover’s Rock, and shines directly into the Menga dolmen.

• Where to Stay in Antequera

Upmarket: Convento la Magdalena Hotel, Torcal de Antequera Natural Park – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Parador de Antequera- Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Los Dólmenes – Booking.com | Agoda

11. Granada

In the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is all about the Alhambra Palace, and is one of Spain’s most romantic cities . This spectacular Moorish palace sits high on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside and is the jewel in Andalucia’s crown as well as being one of the most  beautiful places in Spain .

The Alhambra is simply breathtaking in its beauty, with typical Moorish symmetry and beautifully proportioned rooms full of intricate detail and tile work. The Nasrid Palaces of opulent Moorish-style courtyards, reception halls & royal quarters, and the shaded and leafy gardens with running water, secret paths, and beautiful planting to excite the senses, are both must-sees.

Book your Alhambra tickets and guided tour  well in advance (unless you’re  visiting Granada in winter  when everywhere will be a little quieter) as the Alhambra Palace is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of Spain.

Alternatively, get a Granada Card which allows you to book Alhambra tickets in advance and also covers public transport and other important monuments in the city.

One of the best things to do in Granada itself is to visit the medieval Albaicin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the tangle of streets and alleys, enjoying the gift shops and boutiques.

Head for the Plaza de San Miguel Bajo, a charming tree-lined square before climbing uphill beyond the city walls to the church of San Cristobal for a fantastic view of the Alhambra. 

• Where to Stay in Granada

Upmarket: Hospes Palacio de los Patos – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Santa Isabel La Real- Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: BiBo Suites San Agustín – Booking.com | Agoda

If you’re making this a 14 day southern Spain itinerary, then you should have enough time to spend a few days at the beach at the end of your tour of Andalucia.

Make a detour from your Andalucia travel itinerary and take the gorgeous coastal route from Granada to Malaga along the Costa Tropical. Stop at Nerja and Torre del Mar for some of the best beaches in the region and a perfect end to your Andalucia holiday.

Spanish Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Spain.

• Search for affordable flights to Spain with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Spain with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Spain with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Spain with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Andalucia Road Trip FAQs

How many days do you need for andalucia.

A 7 day itinerary for southern Spain will allow you to get a taste of a few of the historical cities and spend a few days at the beach.

For a real flavor of the landscape, history, and yes, food, you need to spend at least 10 days in Andalucia. With a few extra days, you can also see some of Andalucia’s hidden gems and secret spots that fewer people visit, giving you a true taste of authentic Andalucia.

What is the best month to visit Andalucia?

Andalucia is best visited outside of the summer months . In June, July, and August the temperatures are fierce and can be really uncomfortable – not the best time for a southern Spain itinerary!

Andalucia is one of the warmest places in mainland Europe in winter , although it won’t be quite warm enough for sea swimming. Evenings will be cooler and you’ll need to pack layers if you’re planning on visiting in winter. There may be snow in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are both fantastic times to road trip Andalucia. Roads will be quieter, accommodation and flights cheaper, and you’ll still get all the atmosphere and culture of Andalucia, but with fewer people!

Spring , from March onwards, is gorgeous with temperatures warming up and wildflowers appearing everywhere – the perfect time for a Spanish road trip!

If your plan is to hit the beach, May to July is the best time to visit, when you’ll avoid the summer heat and traffic, but still have beautiful warm weather.

Fall , from  September  through to  November  is also a perfect time for an Andalucia roadtrip in Europe’s best winter sun , with the warmth from summer lingering into autumn, but with quieter roads and cities.

Is driving in Andalucia easy?

Car travel in Spain is easy, with a good network of autovias (A) and autopistas (AP). The latter were toll roads until 2020 when many (but not all) became toll-free.

Car rental, fuel, and parking are some of the cheapest in Europe making Spain a really cost-effective place to take a road trip. 

Touring Spain by car in rural and mountainous areas can take longer than you think although the standard of non-motorway roads in rural areas is generally good. Allow time to get off the beaten track and experience the real Spain as you tour this fabulous country.

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle to Spain or you’re in a rental car, follow our driving in Spain tips;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Spain.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• You must carry two warning triangles for the front and rear. These warning triangles are now being phased out and from 1st July 2021, a new law requires that a V16 flashing emergency light is used, although both means of advising other traffic will be legal until the end of 2024.
• You must also carry a reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers) a spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.  
• If you wear glasses you must also carry a spare pair in the vehicle.
• UK cars will need headlight beam converters to be fitted (unless they adjust automatically).
• The use of winter tires in Spain is regional. Look out for traffic signs indicating that winter tires or snow chains are compulsory where you are.
• Anything with a screen (television, video, DVD, etc.) that could distract you when driving should be positioned where you can’t see it. This doesn’t apply to a sat nav but you must not touch or program your sat nav unless parked in a safe place.
• Using radar detection equipment is prohibited under Spanish law and new regulations from January 2021 mean that it will also be illegal to be in possession of such equipment .
• On roads with single carriageways, the speed limit established may not be exceeded by more than 20km/h when overtaking.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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Andalucia Holidays

With fiery flamenco, quaint fishing villages and historic highlights, andalucia holidays offer a slice of traditional sunny spain., holidays in andalucia.

Andalucia, the sun-soaked region in southern Spain, is packed with vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and some of Europe's most popular seaside resorts. Stretching from the glittering Mediterranean Sea and snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains to the distant Portuguese border, Andalucia has hundreds of hidden gems. Whether it’s the serene traditional towns of Costa de la Luz and famed beaches of Costa del Sol or the historic cities of Seville and Granada, there’s an ideal spot for families, friends and couples alike in Andalucia.  

When is the best time to visit?  Andalucia is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are hot and winters are mild. A perfect year-round destination, whether you’re seeking a sizzling summer or some winter sun, holidays to Andalucia are a great choice.  

Where is the best place to stay?  With resorts stretching from Costa de la Luz and Costa de Almeria to familiar favourite Costa del Sol resorts such as Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Malaga, Marbella and Torremolinos, there are plenty of places to make your base on a holiday to Andalucia. With our huge range of all-inclusive packages, luxury hotels and traditional villa rentals, the best place to stay depends on the vibe you want.

Travel guide

With more than 800 kilometres of coastline, three National Parks, and a handful of Spain’s most regal cities, holidays to Andalucia have a spot for everyone.

• Best time to visit: June-September
• Average flight time: 3 Hours
• Most suited for: Couples, Groups
• Currency: Euro
• Time Difference: +1 hour

Relax and Unwind: Coast to Country.

For those seeking sun and sand, the Costa del Sol offers some of the best beaches in Spain. From the glamorous resorts of Marbella to the family-friendly shores of Torremolinos, there’s a beach for everyone. Enjoy water sports, sunbathe on golden sands, or take a stroll along the picturesque promenades. The vibrant nightlife and exquisite seafood restaurants make the Costa del Sol an ideal destination for relaxation and entertainment. Venture into the Andalucian countryside to discover the charming Pueblos Blancos or White Villages. These picturesque towns, with their whitewashed houses and narrow streets, offer a glimpse into traditional Andalucian life. Ronda, perched on a dramatic gorge, is famous for its breathtaking views and historic bullring. Grazalema, surrounded by the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, is perfect for hiking and nature lovers. From coast to countryside, unwinding in Andalusia is guaranteed.

Sun, Sightseeing and Skiing

For adventure enthusiasts, the Sierra Nevada mountains provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. In winter, the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. In the warmer months, the mountains transform into a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada National Park and take in the breathtaking views from the summit of Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain. For lovers of sightseeing explore the architectural marvels of Granada, home to the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its intricate Moorish architecture and lush gardens, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Wander through the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife Gardens, and the Alcazaba fortress, and let the breathtaking views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains leave you spellbound. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Albayzín district, where narrow, winding streets lead you to hidden gems and stunning viewpoints. 

Experience the Vibrant Energy of Seville and Cordoba

If ethereal cities are on your holiday hitlist, then Andalusia is the place to be. Seville, the heart of Andalucia, pulsates with life and energy. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the majestic Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, offer a glimpse into its grand past. Stroll through the historic Santa Cruz neighbourhood, with its charming alleyways and picturesque plazas. Visit the Royal Alcazar of Seville, a stunning example of Mudejar architecture, and lose yourself in its intricate designs and lush gardens. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms of flamenco at a local tablao, experiencing the soul of Andalucian culture. Cordoba, a nearby city steeped in history, is a culinary paradise that will delight your taste buds. Start your exploration at the Mezquita, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral that showcases the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Wander through the charming streets of the Jewish Quarter, where flower-adorned patios and traditional houses create a picturesque scene. 

Festivals and Feel-Good Fun

Andalucia’s vibrant festivals are a celebration of its rich cultural heritage. The annual Patio Festival, held in May, is a must-see, transforming the city of Cordoba into a riot of colour and fragrance. The Feria de Abril in Seville is a week-long extravaganza of music, dance, and traditional dress, offering an immersive experience of Andalucian culture. The annual Flamenco Festival in Jerez is a must-see, featuring world-renowned artists and celebrating the soul-stirring art of flamenco. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, held in cities like Seville, Malaga, and Granada, are deeply moving events that showcase the region’s religious devotion and artistic expression. If you’re on holiday in Andalusia around these dates, don’t miss the opportunity to join in the festivities and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Andalusian people. 

Food & Drink

There’s plenty of must-try food and drinks scattered throughout Andalucia. Whether savouring freshly caught fish along the coast or enjoying a hearty plate of rabo de toro (oxtail stew), Andalusian food and drink offer an unforgettable taste of Spain's culinary heart. Famed for its tapas culture, offering a delightful array of small dishes like jamón ibérico, tortilla española, and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), these dishes are a must. Of course, there are plenty of international eateries to enjoy in resorts too.  

Andalucia Weather

Average monthly temperature in Andalucia (°C)

• Jan 11 °C
• Feb 12 °C
• Mar 15 °C
• Apr 17 °C
• May 20 °C
• Jun 25 °C
• Jul 28 °C
• Aug 28 °C
• Sep 25 °C
• Oct 20 °C
• Nov 15 °C
• Dec 12 °C

Popular Andalucia Destinations

Immerse yourself in Andalucia's rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and sun-soaked beaches for an unforgettable holiday.

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Destination highlights

Andalucia holidays.

Discover one of the most spectacular regions of Spain with us on one of our Andalucia holidays. We'll go beyond the famous beaches of the Costa Del Sol and uncover some of the country's top sights, including the rich culture and breath-taking architecture. What are you waiting for?

Holidays to Andalucia

On our holidays to Andalucia, we’ll uncover this beguiling area by visiting the lively cities of Seville, Cordoba and Malaga. Experience our Highlights of Andalucia and enjoy a short holiday to Granada for 3 nights, where it’s home to the greatest Muslim legacy in Europe and hosts the jewel in Granada’s crown; La Alhambra, which stands at the foot of Spain’s highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada.

Delve into the history of this landmark with a guided tour of the Alhambra as part of our Nerja, Granada & The Costa del Sol holiday. Plus, we always make sure we have plenty of time at leisure on our holidays in Andalucia so you can enjoy some relaxation and Spanish sunshine.

Uncover one of the most colourful and vibrant holiday destinations in Spain with us. All of our holidays in Andalucia 2024 include return flights, half-board accommodation, transfers and our specially selected excursions with expert, local guides – so you can spend your time relaxing instead of planning.

Select A Guided Holiday To Andalucia

Top places to visit & tourist attractions in andalucia.

Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada boasts one of the top historic sites in Spain, La Alhambra. The UNESCO listed monument was built by the Moors and it’s more than a palace, it’s a citadel with a complex of various palaces, gardens and a fortress once home to the Sultan. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of La Alhambra and the Generalife Gardens and explore this incredible sight.

Located on the banks of the River Guadalquivir, Sevilla is famous for flamenco and orange trees, and has a colourful cultural and architectural heritage. One of its famous claims is that it’s the birthplace of Tapas! It’s also home to The Alcázar, Europe's oldest royal palace, which is still in use today. We’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of Seville, one of Spain’s most vibrant cities on our Andalucia holidays and we’ll see highlights like Plaza Espana, Seville Cathedral and San Telmo Palace.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most magnificent cities of medieval times, Córdoba is a dynamic blend of history and culture; founded by the Carthaginians, taken over by the Romans, then under Arab rule and eventually conquered by the Catholic Kingdom of Castile. Whilst taking a guided walking tour of Córdoba, we’ll explore the historic town centre and see the stunning Mezquita, which was once a mosque, and is now a Christian cathedral.

Nerja has a long history, which can be seen in the ancient paintings found in the Caves of Nerja. These caves are now believed to be just one entrance to a linked series of underground tunnels which extend many miles into the mountains between Nerja and Granada. It’s also famous for the "Balcon de Europa" or Balcony of Europe, aptly named by King Alphons XII and offers beautiful Mediterranean views. On our trips to Nerja, we’ll also have time to relax on the famous Costa del Sol.

Looking for more information? Check out our Andalucia travel guide.

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Christmas in Andalucia

• A stay in the heart of the Andalusian hills
• A Christmas Eve visit to Seville
• A full day in Granada, including entry to the Alhambra

Highlights and Inclusions

• Five nights' half-board accommodation with drinks and dinner at the four-star Hotel Antequera
• A buffet-style Christmas Day lunch
• Two glasses of local wine, beer or soft drinks per person at evening meals and Christmas lunch
• Return flights to Malaga
• Return airport-to-hotel transfers
• The services of a friendly, experienced tour manager
• One piece of hold luggage per person

Fly to Malaga, meet your tour manager at the airport, and board our coach for the transfer into the Andalusian hills to your hotel, where dinner will be served.

Join your tour manager for an included visit to historic Seville, the great ‘City of Flamenco’, the setting for Bizet’s Carmen and Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. Discover the delightful city, with its atmospheric Old Quarters of narrow streets, opening on to tree-lined squares. Don’t miss the magnificent cathedral, the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullring, the Moorish Alcazar, the ancient Juderia Jewish Quarter and the sweeping, fountain-fronted Plaza de Espana. Stores will be open for last-minute shopping, before you return to the hotel to begin your celebrations.

Spend Christmas Day celebrating at your hotel before you sit down for a three-course Christmas lunch with drinks.  

Board the coach this morning for the day’s unforgettable included excursion to Granada, set majestically beneath the snow-capped Sierra and crowned by the awe-inspiring Alhambra, one of the world’s finest Moorish Palaces. This evening, return to Antequera after a wonderful day.

A final day perhaps to relax at the hotel, to explore Antequera – a settlement since prehistoric times – or perhaps to join the optional excursion to majestic Cordoba, the third of the great Andalusian cities, with the breathtaking treasure of the Mezquita Mosque/Cathedral its most sparkling jewel.Enjoy a last dinner at the hotel.

Say goodbye to your hotel and your hosts, and transfer back to the airport to board your flight home.

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