south spain road trip itinerary

The Ultimate Andalucia Road Trip (Detailed Southern Spain Itinerary!)

Winding streets through whitewashed villages, the clink of tinto verano glasses scraping against tapas plates, sweeping views across gorges, endless sour orange trees, and 700-year-old palaces: these are just a few of the incredible things that you’ll find on an Andalucia road trip.

As Spain’s southernmost region, there are a downright overwhelming number of places to visit in Andalucia, ranging from whitewashed hilltop towns (pueblos blancos) to Mediterranean beaches to snowcapped mountains, and everything in between!

Planning a southern Spain itinerary can be tricky, if for no other reason than that it’s hard to narrow down exactly where to go.

After two long trips spent falling in love with the south of Spain, we’ve put together this road trip itinerary for Andalucia in the hopes that you come away loving it as much as we do (and avoid some mistakes that we learned the hard way).

If you’re ready to soak up the magic of Andalucia, this southern Spain road trip itinerary is for you!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Southern Spain Itinerary

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With a region as large and diverse as Andalucia, narrowing down the best places to visit on a 10 day southern Spain road trip is quite the challenge!

We structured this Andalucia road trip as a loop beginning and ending in Seville, home to one of the largest airports in the region.

Since it’s a loop, you can easily reverse this itinerary if you wish, or start in a different city (such as Malaga).

We designed this southern Spain itinerary around visiting whitewashed villages, historic cities, and stunning landscapes.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves visiting many beautiful towns, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually take less than 10 hours.

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in 10 days!

We don’t dedicate much time to the famous Costa del Sol on this travel guide, as this is more of an enjoy-all-the-attractions itinerary rather than a relax-on-the-beach itinerary, but we do include a bit of time to soak up views by the Mediterranean as well.

In addition to the detailed 10 day southern Spain itinerary we’ve outlined here, we’ve also made notes of more incredible places to visit in Andalucia that you can add or swap in, depending on your travel style.

This guide to road tripping Andalucia is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

For most people, of course, taking an Andalucia road trip will require renting a car

We recommend renting a small car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

For the purposes of this southern Spain itinerary, we recommend picking up a car the morning you leave Seville.

There’s no reason to pick one up for your time in the city, as parking it will be a hassle and you won’t need it for exploring Seville.

Check rates and book your rental car today!

This southern Spain itinerary is specifically designed as a road trip, and we do strongly believe that driving is the best way to visit Andalucia!

From offbeat villages to charming hikes to out-of-the-way beaches, your trip to Andalucia will absolutely be enhanced by having your own set of wheels.

That being said, if you can’t or would rather not drive, you can still cover the vast majority of the sights included on this Andalucia road trip itinerary through a combination of public transportation and guided tours.

If you’re not planning to drive, we recommend basing yourself in larger cities like Seville, Granada, and Malaga, and taking day trips (independently, guided, or a combination of both) from there.

As much as we love Ronda, we wouldn’t recommend spending more than perhaps one night there without a car.

If you want to structure your itinerary for southern Spain without a car, we highly recommend using Omio to check exact ticket schedules and pricing for trains and buses in Andalucia!

Check schedules and shop train and bus tickets in Andalucia today!

Day 1: Arrive in Seville and start exploring.

Starting your southern Spain travels in Seville means diving right into the heart of Andalucian culture!

Depending on what time your plane lands, kick off your Andalucia vacation with a visit to the Seville Cathedral–once the biggest church in the world–and a climb up its bell tower.

The Giralda (bell tower) not only includes a beautiful view but is part of Andalucian history.

Before the Reconquista (when Christian powers overtook the Moorish kingdom that once ruled this area), this bell tower was the minaret of a mosque on the same site.

When the sun starts to set, head out for tapas and tinto verano (similar to sangria, but less elaborate and beloved by locals).

We don’t recommend picking up your rental car until day 3 of this itinerary–you won’t need it when exploring the heart of Seville.

Where to Stay in Seville, Spain

When deciding where to stay in Seville, location is key as ideally, you’ll want to stay within walking distance of Seville’s best attractions.

We had a fantastic experience at  Petit Palace Puerta de Triana  on our most recent trip to Seville.

The hotel  has a fantastic location (central but also quiet–a far from guaranteed combination in Spain), a delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.

Looking for something a bit different?

The incredibly popular Hotel Rey Alfonso X is an excellent choice, and their rooftop views are sublime!

If you’d like to stick to more of a budget, Hotel America Sevilla gets wonderful reviews and doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of location.

Meanwhile, for the height of luxury, you can’t beat the absolutely stunning Hotel Alfonso XIII !

Check rates & book your stay in Seville today!

Day 2: Dive into Andalucian culture and history in Seville.

Today, it’s time to explore the rest of the major attractions in Seville!

Be sure to visit the famous Plaza de Espana, wander through the picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz (the former Jewish Quarter), and potentially see a Flamenco show .

Touring the gorgeous Alcazar is also a must: parts of this unique palace were built in the Moorish style, by Islamic craftsmen, for Christian rulers.

The result is a unique and beautiful combination of cultures that brings together several aspects of Andalucian history.

If you’re interested in experiencing more modern architecture in Seville, the famous Metropol Parasol is a fun spot with great views.

For foodies, we highly recommend taking a food tour in Seville on the first full day of your trip: not only is it incredibly fun, but it will help you know exactly what to order during the rest of your southern Spain itinerary!

And, if you’d like to explore the history of bullfighting in Spain, the Plaza de Toros is one of the most famous bullfighting rings in the world and can be toured (for obvious reasons, we do not recommend attending a fight).

Day 3: Explore Cordoba.

Today, pick up your rental car and hit the road to Cordoba!

Lying about 1 hour, 45 minutes northeast of Seville, Cordoba is famous for its incredible Mosque-Cathedral , which is exactly what it sounds like–a cathedral built literally inside a former Moorish mosque.

It’s one of the most unique houses of worship we’ve ever set foot in, and it alone would be worth visiting Cordoba for!

While Cordoba’s history dates back to the Romans (and you can stroll across the aptly named Roman Bridge while there), its Moorish period is responsible for much of the city’s stunning architecture and fame.

Cordoba peaked in the 10th century, when it was, for a brief moment, the biggest and one of the most powerful cities in the world.

In addition to the Mosque-Cathedral, be sure to explore Cordoba’s many flower-filled patios, check out the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, and visit the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter during your day in Cordoba.

Where to Stay in Cordoba, Spain

We loved our stay at Hesperia Cordoba !

Set just over the river from Cordoba’s historic center and a very short walk from the Roman Bridge, Hesperia Cordoba features spacious rooms, excellent customer service, and a rooftop with one of the best views in the city.

For those traveling Andalucia on a budget, Cordoba Carpe Diem is a great option in the heart of the city.

And, if you’re looking to stay in a hotel so luxurious that it’s practically a museum, the popular Hospes Palacio del Bailio is the clear winner (it even features actual Roman ruins!).

Check rates & book your stay in Cordoba!

Day 4: Make your way to Granada.

Winding roads, stunning hilltop towns, and olive trees as far as the eye can see: these are the views that you’ll enjoy when driving from Cordoba to Granada on your Andalucia road trip!

If you’d like to add an extra stop or two to your morning, the Medina Azahara (a UNESCO World Heritage recognized archaeological site) and the Castle of Almodovar del Rio (a magnificent castle dating to 760 that was a Game of Thrones filming location) are both excellent options.

Both places are a bit out of the way, but as the drive between Cordoba and Granada is only about 2.5 hours long, you’ll have plenty of time if you’d like to stop.

Once you get to Granada, settle in and start sightseeing!

Depending on what time you get in, we recommend exploring the picturesque Albayzin (Arab Quarter), climbing up to the Mirador San Nicholas (it’s worth every step!), and enjoying plenty of tapas.

If you have time, consider heading up to Sacromonte to visit the interesting cave museum and to attend an an intimate flamenco show –the neighborhood is famous for them!

Where to Stay in Granada, Spain

We rented an apartment from Mosaiko Homes in Granada, and could not have had a better experience: the owner was responsive, the apartment fantastic, and the location unbeatable!

Mosaiko Homes is located on a quiet street a short walk from many of Granada’s top sights, offering the combination of a convenient location and a lack of noise at night–two things that can be difficult to find together in Andalucia!

Another excellent option with near-perfect reviews is the incredibly unique Casa de Reyes (that decor!).

For a bit of luxury, the popular Shine Albayzin is not only housed in a 16th-century palace, it overlooks the Alhambra !

Generally speaking, lodging in Granada is much more affordable than in, say, Seville or the resort towns of the Costa del Sol.

If you’re going to splurge on a luxury property during your 10 day southern Spain itinerary, Granada is a fantastic place to do so!

Check rates & book your stay in Granada!

Day 5: Discover the Alhambra and other Granada gems.

On the fifth day of your road trip in Andalucia, it’s time to visit the region’s top attraction: the Alhambra!

While the Alhambra is most famous for its stunning Nasrid Palaces built by the Moors, there is an overwhelming amount of things to see at this iconic fortress.

From Generalife and its gardens (a summer retreat for the Nasrid dynasty) to the Alcazaba (the oldest portion of the fortress, which dates to the 1200s) and beyond, there are many sides to the Alhambra to visit.

General tickets to the Alhambra are competitive and often sell out far in advance (you can check available dates here ), but luckily, organized tours and skip-the-line tickets (which are only slightly more expensive than general tickets) are very easy to come by.

Deciding whether to take a tour of the Alhambra or simply use an audio guide is a personal choice, and both have pros and cons.

We took this popular tour , and while we got frustrated with how much it dragged in certain places, we loved having the context of a live guide–especially in the Nasrid Palaces.

We also loved not having to manage the tightly controlled timed entry system for the Nasrid Palaces ourselves.

Keep in mind that not all Alhambra tickets include entry to the Nasrid Palaces.

Make sure that your ticket does, though, because they are truly the star of the show!

You will likely be exhausted after visiting the Alhambra, which makes this afternoon the perfect time to visit one of Andalucia’s gorgeous hammams.

Hammam Al Andalus is well-known, gorgeous, and accessible to English speakers. We loved our time there!

Day 6: Take the scenic route to Malaga (or nearby).

Today, start your morning by enjoying any sightseeing you haven’t had a chance to enjoy in Granada, such as visiting the stunning Granada Cathedral and Royal Crypt.

Depending on what time you get started in the morning and how much time you want to spend on the beach, you can also consider heading 20 minutes outside of Granada to enjoy the popular hanging bridges at Los Cahorros Gorge in Monachil.

From there, it’s time to make your way to the Costa del Sol: no southern Spain itinerary would be complete without soaking up some sun!

We recommend heading toward Malaga via the A-44 to A-7 route–it’s slightly longer than going the A-92 route, but you can’t beat the views driving along the Mediterranean for half the drive!

Day 7: Soak up the sun on the Costa del Sol.

There is an endless number of options when it comes to deciding what town to stay in on the Costa del Sol!

Malaga, the biggest city in the region, is perfect for those who want to potentially take an afternoon road trip to a nearby beach but want to dedicate most of their time to culture.

The best things to do in Malaga include visiting the celebrated Picasso Museum, Alcazaba , Roman Theatre, Cathedral, and beyond, which make for a compelling, but not beachy, trip.

If you’re looking for idyllic beaches, Nerja is the place to go (that’s where the above photo was snapped!).

A beautiful resort town with a promenade?

Estepona might be right for you.

No matter where you end up staying, make sure that you spend at least part of the day admiring views of the Mediterranean with a gelato or glass of tinto verano (or both) in hand.

Since you’re visiting via a Costa del Sol road trip, you can also easily stay in one town and squeeze in a quick afternoon visit to another!

Day 8: Continue your Andalucia road trip and head to Ronda.

Last but certainly not least, say goodbye to the Costa del Sol and head north again to Ronda , one of our absolute favorite places in Spain.

Situated on a ridge, Ronda features sweeping views, a gorge, an 18th-century bridge that is earnestly referred to as the “New Bridge”, ties to the Lost Generation, and idyllic whitewashed streets–and that’s without even leaving the town center.

Much smaller than Seville or Granada, Ronda is nonetheless well worth savoring.

Once you arrive, start by exploring a few of the best things to do in Ronda, such as visiting the Cuenca Gardens, marveling at Puerto Nuevo (and Puerto Viejo and the Arab Bridge, while you’re at it), and visiting the historic Arab Baths (now a museum, though there is also a functioning hammam in Ronda!).

For sunset, there is absolutely no better place to be than admiring the views of Puerto Nuevo and the surrounding landscape from the Alameda del Tejo!

Where to Stay in Ronda, Spain

We can’t rave about our stay at Catalonia Reina Victoria in Ronda enough–it may just be one of our favorite hotels we’ve ever stayed in!

Unbeatable views over the countryside (we upgraded to a terrace room, which was absolutely worth it), excellent customer service, comfortable rooms, easy parking on site, and walking distance to all the best things to do in Ronda–it’s hard to beat that!

The popular Hotel Montelirio , with views of the Puerto Nuevo, is also a great option.

However, as Ronda is the last stop on your Andalucia road trip and finding parking in the city center is fairly simple, you may want to go the complete opposite route and stay in a country hotel just outside of town!

The beautiful and well-reviewed Hotel Cortijo Las Piletas is located a 15-minute drive from Ronda, offers a pool, gorgeous views, and a bit of peace and quiet to end your trip with.

Check rates & book your stay in Ronda today!

Day 9: Explore unique places to visit near Ronda.

In addition to being a fantastic town to visit in its own right, Ronda is also surrounded by excellent day trip options!

Our first choice would undoubtedly be a visit to Setenil de las Bodegas: if you only have time to visit one place outside of Ronda, make it here.

This historic town features many homes and businesses built directly into the surrounding gorge, and the result is one of the most unique towns we have ever laid eyes on!

Other fun places to visit include Juzcar (also known as Spain’s “Smurf Village”–it is painted entirely blue!), and the Cueva del Gato swimming hole.

If you want a unique perspective on Ronda’s famous Puerto Nuevo, you can also drive to the bottom of the ridge and view it from an entirely different angle (keep in mind that there are some tiny dirt roads involved here, but it is doable).

Looking to ditch the car entirely?

You can find plenty of horseback riding tours in the area!

Day 10: Head back to Seville and wrap up your 10 day southern Spain itinerary.

It’s time to wrap up your Andalucia road trip!

Today, make your way back to Seville to drop off your rental car and head home.

If you have time for a little extra sightseeing, consider spending the morning visiting any attractions you didn’t get a chance to see in Ronda or Seville.

Or, for an incredibly relaxing end to your 10 days in southern Spain, book yourself a visit to a hammam in either city!

A mere 10 days in Andalucia could never hope to cover every incredible destination that southern Spain has to offer!

If you’re lucky enough to have a longer timeframe to work with, here are a few more places to consider adding to your itinerary for southern Spain, from beach towns to mountainous parks.

Over 3,000 years old and almost entirely surrounded by water, Cadiz is visually stunning and historically fascinating.

It’s fairly small, given that it is physically constrained by its location, but packed with interesting sights, including over 100 watchtowers!

Technically speaking, your Andalucia road trip doesn’t have to only take place in Spain!

Head to Gibraltar to enjoy views from the famous Rock of Gibraltar, check out the resident wild monkeys, and enjoy the excuse to walk (literally) across the border of Spain to the UK.

Don’t forget to pack your passport!

Jerez de la Frontera

A great alternative to cities like Seville, Jerez de la Frontera offers many of the usual Andalucia highlights–Moorish castle, riding school, festivals–but is (slightly) more off the beaten path.

It’s also famous for its sherry production, making it a fun stop for spirit lovers!

Sierra Nevada National Park

Offering skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and gorgeous mountain views year-round, Sierra Nevada National Park makes an excellent addition to an itinerary for southern Spain for those looking for a place to relax in nature.

Located just east of Granada, Sierra Nevada National Park is easy to add to this itinerary–or, if you’re not much of a beach person, you can even swap the Costa del Sol for some time here!

Puerto Banus

Looking for luxurious yachts, high-end nightclubs, and–essentially–the Spanish version of St. Tropez or Monaco?

Head to Puerto Banus, just next door to Marbella, and you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.

Start by checking out the Golden Mile!

Arcos de la Frontera

Surrounded by the Guadalete River on 3 sides and–like Ronda–situated on the edge of a ridge, Arcos de la Frontera is visually stunning and one of the best whitewashed towns (pueblos blancos) to visit in Andalucia.

Don’t miss the views from the Castillo de los Arcos while you’re there!

Located at the far southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Tarifa is far enough out of the way that it doesn’t see quite as many visitors as the famous Costa del Sol (among those who aren’t kitesurfing enthusiasts, anyway)–but it’s absolutely worth a visit.

Featuring wide, sandy beaches famous for kitesurfing and a charming whitewashed town center, Tarifa is a laid-back delight.

It also lies a short ferry ride away from Morocco , and you can take a day trip to Tangiers as part of your time there!

El Caminito del Rey

With stunning gorge views and adrenaline-inducing heights, El Caminito del Rey is one of the most iconic hikes in Andalucia!

A decade ago, it was often touted as being the most dangerous hike in Spain–or even the world–but it has now been restored to be much more accessible.

… For those of us with a fear of heights, though, it can still pose a mental challenge!

Andalucia can be a year-round destination–if you can brave the summer heat, that is.

Southern Spain, particularly cities like Cordoba and Seville, are known for being some of the hottest places in Europe.

Summer temperatures can easily reach 98°F (36°C) in the inland cities, which is why during July and August, you’ll find the crowds down at the Costa del Sol, where the temperatures are milder and there’s the Mediterranean to cool off in.

Ideally, this itinerary for southern Spain is designed for the spring or fall, when temperatures are warm but reasonable, the sun is usually shining, and the flowers are in bloom everywhere you look.

If you’re willing to bundle up a bit, winter can also be a wonderful time to take this Andalucia road trip.

The prices and crowds will both be smaller, and if you’re so inclined, you can even go skiing in Sierra Nevada near Granada–the southernmost ski area in Europe!

Here are a few essentials you should definitely add to your packing list as you prepare for your road trip in Andalucia, Spain!

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for trips to Spain.

Travel Adaptors for Spain — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Hands-Free Phone Mount  — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip in Andalucia.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance  — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some of theirs do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re spending long days driving from village to village: add a portable charger to your southern Spain packing list.

Swiss Army Knife  — Want to open wine bottles in your hotel room, slice cheese from the market, or cut up that fresh bread from the bakery?

You’ll be so glad you brought a Swiss Army Knife along on your Andalucia vacation!

Camera  — We absolutely adore our Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works.

Just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Reusable Water Bottle(s)  — Cut down on plastic waste, save money, and make sure you don’t have to stop for water constantly: a reusable water bottle has lots of benefits on a road trip. We personally love and use  these .

Hand Sanitizer  — We carry this everywhere, and have never been sorry to have it floating around in our day bag.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “The Ultimate Andalucia Road Trip (Detailed Southern Spain Itinerary!)”

beautiful, do you sell a map of this

We don’t sell a map or printable version of this itinerary (yet), but you can click on the button at the top right of the map embedded at the bottom of this article and download it to take with you!

This is exactly the trip we plan to take this fall. Thank you for this great guide! Are the places you reccommend to stay pet friendly? It appeared your were travelling with your dog and we are also travrling with ours. Gracias!

Yes, all of the places we mention staying at personally in Andalucia are pet-friendly and Ranger stayed with us at all of them!

I can’t speak to the alternative suggestions provided, as I don’t source pet-friendly hotels specifically for those (very few of our readers travel with their dogs).

Have a wonderful trip!

Hi Kate, It seems finally I have found the perfect road trip for southern Spain. I plan to go early December or maybe in Jan-Feb. I would like to add 3-4 days to the trip. Could you recommend how to do that? Regards, Amitabh

The sky is the limit!

Beyond the destinations I outlined in the “other destinations” section of the post, you could potentially consider adding on a few days in Morocco with a longer timeline.

You can also easily add more days to any of the destinations included in the itinerary. There’s lots of great hiking around Granada, for example, and of course there’s always the option of enjoying even more beach time along the Costa del Sol.

Would you change anything if you were doing this between Christmas and New Years?

Other than adjusting you schedule for closures (the Alhambra is closed on December 25 and January 1, for example, and you can expect restaurants to close as well), nope! There are a lot of advantages to a winter trip, starting with the smaller crowds. Hope you guys have a great time!

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An epic southern Spain road trip itinerary: 10-day Andalucia road trip

Packed with culture, music, breathtaking nature, architecture, and a sunny coastline, Andalucia is the perfect setting for a road trip and well worthy your Spain bucket list .

Its uniqueness and strong heritage is a colorful blend of the Moors, Romans, Visgoths, and Phoenicians which together stand for 3000 years of settlements in the peninsula.

After living in the region for more than ten years, the last 2 full-time in a van, I’ve driven through most of it. Personally, I can’t get enough of this part of Spain.

I created this epic southern Spain road trip itinerary so that you can get the best of Andalucia both the most popular places and more off the beaten path destinations in Spain .

Find out how to spend 10 days on an Andalucia road trip and have the time of your life! Oh! And if you have more than 10 days, I’ve included tips for other exciting things you can fill your days with along the way.

Trust me when I say you won’t get bored on a road trip in Andalucia, after all, you’re heading out on one of the most epic road trips in Spain .

Andalucia is also one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers as it’s beautiful, full of culture, and safe, so if it is your first time in the country, I am sure you will have a blast with this introduction!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Hi, I’m Linn Haglund, the face behind Brainy Backpackers. I’ve been based in Spain for the last 10+ years, and travel locally and abroad whenever I have a chance. I’m passionate about responsible travel, slow and off the beaten path travel, and outdoor activities, especially hiking. I’m currently slow traveling in my van Persistence (Persi among friends) with my fiancée Mohammed and rescue puppy Atlas. I’m excited to help you explore this planet responsibly!

Table of Contents

10 Day Southern Spain road trip itinerary

Before heading out on any Andalucia road trip, make sure you read these tips for driving in Spain as a tourist .

If you only have 10 days for your southern Spain road trip, I suggest you do the following route:

Day 1 Malaga

As you land in Malaga, there is no way you can leave this amazing Spanish coastal city without seeing the main highlights. Start off by visiting the Moorish Alcazaba fortress and the Gibralfaro castle.

They’re both set on a hilltop with incredible city views. You can also visit the Roman theater, sitting right below the Alcazaba.

Have lunch at the Plaza de la Merced or anywhere along the way that you find appealing. It’s hard to go wrong in Malaga with all the incredible tapas bars.

After lunch, head to Malaga Cathedral and spend the rest of the day wandering the streets in the historic center.

You can visit museums like the Picasso Museum, and the Flamenco Art Museum, or go shopping in Calle Larios.

Or maybe you want to explore Malagueta Beach? Stroll down to the marina for dinner and drinks for the best sunset there is in Malaga.

Where to stay in Malaga: Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina Budget option: Hotel Goartín

RECOMMENDED TOURS IN MALAGA: 👉 Malaga Tour with Cathedral, Alcazaba, and Roman Theatre 👉 Malaga Highlights, Old Town & Viewpoints Walking Tour 👉 Ultimate Malaga History & Tapas 👉 The Best of Malaga in 2 Hours on a Segway

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME….

• Hike El Saltillo trail
• Visit the beaches of Maro from Nerja
• Visit Frigiliana from Nerja
• Go scuba diving in Nerja
• Hike Malaga’s highest peak, La Maroma
• Hike Rio Chillar or Rio Higueron river hikes
• See all my favorite day trips from Malaga

Day 2 Nerja – Salobreña – Granada

Start early in the morning so you get the most out of the day because you’ll be visiting two pretty amazing coastal towns today.

Driving from Malaga to Nerja takes about 45 minutes. Plot it into your GPS and you’ll get there easily. There is a large outside parking area in Nerja not far from Balcon de Europa. Usually, you’ll have to pay to stay there (though I often find it’s free off season), but there is also free parking along the roads before you get into the center.

Nerja is one of the most popular coastal towns in Spain , and full of charm. I suggest you head to Balcon de Europa to see the beautiful coastal views and stroll around the charming streets – maybe have ice cream. There is a really nice ice cream shop right off the square itself.

Nerja boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Andalucia , so if you want to go for a swim, you can walk down straight from Balcon de Europa to the beaches below or walk farther away to Burriana or even drive to the beaches of Maro.

As an alternative, you can visit the prehistoric Nerja Caves, some of the most spectacular in Spain. They’re within a 10-minute drive from Nerja and you can book tickets online so that you secure your entrance time.

But don’t forget the time, you don’t want to miss out on Salobreña, another one of Andalucia’s stunning white towns . Have your lunch either before you go or after you arrive in Salobreña, but remember the Spanish lunch hours. Most restaurants won’t serve food after 15:30-16:00.

Driving from Nerja to Salobreña takes about half an hour. There is parking along the streets there, but you should avoid driving up the hills towards the old town. Keep to the main streets towards the beach and walk from there.

Once you get to Salobreña, walk up to the castle overlooking the coast. It’s a beautiful area around it too. Spend some time getting lost in the streets between colorful pot plants cascading down the whitewashed houses.

Salobreña is an astounding example of Andalucia’s charm. There are squares and small bars where you can enjoy a cold drink on a hot day. Make sure you step inside the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, it’s really worth a visit.

Before you leave Salobreña, make it down to the beach and walk on the Peñon, the little rock formation forming a mini peninsula from the beach. You’ll get great views of the little hilltop that the old town is set on, crowned by the castle on top.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME… 👉 Explore the coastal hikes and beaches in Cabo de Gata for a few days 👉 Spend a day in Almuñecar 👉 In winter, go cross-country skiing in Puerto de la Ragua in Sierra Nevada

Before it’s too late, get going to Granada where you’ll stay the night and have a late dinner. The drive is only 50 minutes and once you’ve parked up the car and settled in the hotel you can enjoy a nice glass of local wine or beer.

Where to stay in Granada: Alhambra Palace Hotel Budget option: Eurostars Puerta Real

Day 3 Granada

Get up early and after breakfast, it’s time to explore Granada historical center, also known as the Albaicin neighborhood. This is the Arab neighborhood of Granada and is set on a hill with astounding views of the Alhambra.

Make sure you visit the San Nicolas church on the square and viewpoint of the same name. This is probably the most popular viewpoint of the Alhambra as you get the mesmerizing backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountain range behind, often snowcapped if you don’t go there in summer and autumn before snowfall.

Worth visiting is The Bañuelo, which is an incredibly well-preserved ancient Arab bath and national monument. You can see opening times and get tickets here . Also the 15th century The Dar-al-Horra Palace is a must-visit. Book your tickets here .

After lunch, make space for visiting Granada Cathedral, get lost in the narrow streets, and venture to Sacromonte to check out a flamenco show in one of the caves. You can book tickets in advance here .

Day 4 Granada and Alhambra

Today is the day you’ll be exploring the incredible Alhambra fortress, castle, and gardens, an impeccable UNESCO World Heritage site.

As one of the most visited landmarks in Spain , this is without a doubt one of the highlights of this Andalucia road trip itinerary.

The Alhambra is among the most popular weekend trips in Spain , so if you can plan your visit for mid-week, you will likely have a less crowded experience.

Top tip! Book tickets online for the Alhambra as early as possible before your trip, they get fully booked pretty quickly and you don’t want to miss out on this experience! I highly recommend this guided tour to get the most out of your visit!

The Alhambra is divided into three main parts, the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba, and the Generalife Gardens. You have to make sure you get tickets to all of them.

Usually, I’m an independent visitor when I see tourist attractions, but the Alhambra is worth visiting with a guide . There’s so much to learn about the history of Andalucia from this immense complex. If you prefer to go by yourself, you also have the option of this self-guided audio tour .

You should set off at least half a day for the Alhambra and if you can get tickets for the morning, it’s the best. Then you can get lunch when you’re finished and spend the rest of the day getting lost in the enchanting streets of the old town and enjoy the last night in Granada soaking in the atmosphere in this special city.

TOP-RATED ALHAMBRA GUIDED TOURS

• Alhambra & Generalife Skip the line Small Group including Nasrid Palaces
• Private Tour of the Alhambra in Granada (ticket included)

Alternatively, if you want to get active in nature , you have time to drive the 25 minutes to Monachil to hike Ruta de Los Cahorros. This is a really fun gorge hike that takes you across several hanging bridges, one of them 63 meters long, past water holes, and waterfalls.

There are sections where you have to duck under the mountain and hold on to metal handles that are pinned into the mountain walls to get past. It’s ideal to do with kids too and the whole round trip takes about 4 hours or you can walk back through the gorge.

There is a large parking lot in Monachil and the trail is well signposted. If you’re unsure how to find the trailhead, ask anyone on the street. This hike is the main reason anyone visits Monachil.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME… 👉 Take a day or two in Cordoba 👉 Hike the highest mountain in the Iberian Peninsula, Mulhacén (3479m) 👉 Visit the witch village of Soportújar 👉 Go skiing in Sierra Nevada (if you travel in winter!)

Day 5 El Caminito del Rey – El Torcal de Antequera – Seville

It takes 1 hour and 35 minutes to drive from Granada to El Kiosko Restaurant in Ardales, where you have to park to do El Caminito del Rey hike. You MUST book tickets in advance or you won’t get in! These get booked up really quickly once they get released, so make sure you don’t forget. Book for the first available in the morning so you get the most out of your day and you’ll also find parking easier. There are buses at the end of the hike taking you back from El Chorro to your car. Make sure you have 1.55 Euros in coins for the bus.

Today is going to be a long day with two spectacular stops in nature. First, stop by the jaw-dropping Caminito del Rey in Ardales.

This used to be the most dangerous hike in the world but was fixed up and reopened in 2015. Today, you get a security brief and helmet before you head out on an astonishing walkway pinned 100 meters up the vertical cliff wall in the grand and narrow gorge.

The hike takes 2 hours + the 20-50 minutes it takes to walk from El Kiosko Restaurant to the checkpoint and start of the hike. Read everything you need to know about hiking El Caminito del Rey here . To book the official tickets, check for availability here . For a guided tour I highly recommend this tour .

I recommend you have lunch at El Kiosko Restaurant before driving to El Torcal de Antequera, as there isn’t much food to get at the café up there.

El Caminito del Rey isn’t for the faint-hearted, so if you have severe vertigo, you might want to skip this. Then you have two options. You can either hike Mirador de las Buitreras, starting at El Kiosko Restaurant too, but when you get to the tunnel before the checkpoint, take the track on the right side instead. This is a free hiking route where you get breathtaking views of the area including El Caminito del Rey. There are usually loads of vultures circling on this spot (thereof the name of the hike: The vulture viewpoint.) It takes 1.5-2 hours return. The second option is to drive straight to El Torcal de Antequera and spend the remaining time in Antequera city where you can visit the Alcazaba and stroll around the beautiful city.

Driving from El Kiosko Restaurant to El Torcal de Antequera takes about an hour. There is parking on top by the information center, but on the weekends it can fill up quickly. There are two large parking lots at the bottom of the hill and if you see that these are getting full, you might as well save the effort of driving up to find it full and park up there. You can either walk up along a trail on the left side of the road, this will add a couple of hours to your total walking time or you can get the bus that goes between the bottom parking and the visitor center at the top. It costs 2 Euros return that you need to pay in cash to the driver.

El Torcal de Antequera is one of the most impressive natural landmarks there is in Spain boasting one of the most unique karst landscapes in Europe. 150 Million years ago, this area was underwater.

It’s slowly been pushed up to reach 1300 meters above sea level and weather throughout all these times has left us with incredible rock formations, caves, tunnels, and fossils across an area perfect for walking.

This is a walk that the whole family will enjoy, so it’s perfect for those visiting Andalucia with kids . You can choose between a 45-minute route or a 2 hour one. I do recommend the longer route as I find it much more beautiful, but if you travel with small children or feel tired after the morning hike, you might be happy with the shorter option.

There’s also a big chance you’ll see wild mountain goats crossing your path or posing on one of the impressive rocks. Make sure you don’t chase them or try to touch or feed them.

There is a café at the visitor center where you can get some snacks and drinks before you head towards Seville where you can relax with a tapas dinner and good wine.

It takes about 2 hours to drive to Seville and you want to get going before it gets dark as there is hardly any lighting along the motorway and it’s extremely tiring to drive in the dark.

Where to stay in Seville: Hotel Alfonso XIII Budget option: Melia Lebreros

Day 6 Seville

Though I always recommend a minimum of 3 days in Seville , you can get a good taste of Andalucia’s charming capital city in 2 days. And I think we can all agree that on a road trip, Andalucia’s most beautiful city can’t be overlooked!

Get up early and get ready for the historical center, starting off with Seville’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Giralda and the Royal Alcázar are situated right next to it and I highly recommend getting a guided tour covering them all together so that you avoid the lines.

After all this history it’s perfect to go for a stroll in the nearby neighborhood of Santa Cruz where there is a myriad of restaurants to choose from for lunch.

After lunch, head to the Metropol Parasol (also known as Setas de Sevilla) on Plaza de la Encarnacion, the newest and most hated attraction by the locals, but loved by tourists. The modern structure resembles a mushroom, thereof the nickname “Las Setas” meaning the mushrooms.

Here you’ll get pretty cool views of the city, but you can also check out the Archaeological Museum below where there are different remains and artifacts from the site.

For dinner, head over to Triana on the other side of the Guadalquivir River – make sure you walk the famous Triana Bridge. This is where you find the best and most authentic Flamenco shows too.

TOP RATED TOURS OF SEVILLE: 👉 Cathedral, Alcazar, and Giralda Guided Tour with Priority Tickets 👉 Sevilla Food Tour: Tapas, Wine, History & Traditions 👉 Seville Electric Bike Small Group Tour 👉 Cruise on an Exclusive Yacht through the Guadalquivir River 👉 City Sightseeing Seville Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

FOR ACTIVE TRAVELERS

Day 7 Seville

Start the day with a good breakfast before walking to Plaza de España, my absolute favorite place in Seville. The stunning building is beautifully decorated with tiled benches outside, each of them marked with one of the 50 Spanish provinces.

With a small canal, lining the half-circled building with rowboats taking tourists up and down, Plaza de España has actually earned the nickname “Venice of Seville” and a visit there is a must do in Seville .

Plaza de España is situated right next to Seville’s largest park, Parque de Maria Luisa. It’s not only the biggest green space you find in the city, it’s also the most beautiful (in my opinion anyway!) With paths passing Moorish fountains, tiled benches, and creative statues, you can walk around enjoying a little break from city life.

After lunch, spend the rest of the day getting lost in the streets, soak in the local life, walk along the Guadalquivir River, or go for this boat trip . Make sure you see the Torre del Oro that proudly towers along the river too.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME… 👉 Head to Italica to explore Roman remains 👉 Explore Doñana National Park on a guided trip 👉 View Seville from above on a hot air balloon experience

I suggest you drive to Jerez de la Frontera either the same night or early the next morning, depending on if you want to soak in more of Seville’s vibrant nightlife or head to a lesser-visited gem mainly frequented by Spanish tourists and sherry fanatics.

It takes about an hour to drive from Seville to Jerez de la Frontera.

Where to stay in Jerez de la Frontera: Astuto Boutique Jerez Budget options: Hotel Soho Boutique Jerez

Day 8 Jerez de la Frontera

There are so many great things to do in Jerez de la Frontera that you’ll have a jam-packed day! As the sherry capital of Andalucia, there’s no doubt that you have to go on a sherry tour of some of Spain’s most famous bodegas, like Gonzáles Byass and Tio Pepe.

But even though sherry isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Jerez de la Frontera has more than 20 churches and convents that you’ll easily bump into just by getting lost in the streets – which you definitely should take your time doing with a day in the city. A couple of the most noteworthy are the Iglesia de Santiago and the Iglesia de San Juan de los Caballeros.

Since Jerez de la Frontera is so small, it’s also perfectly walkable and you’ll have no problems finding the cathedral – which is one of the most beautiful in Andalucia – and the Alcazar.

If you happen to be there on a Sunday, don’t miss out on the flea market in Alameda Vieja, right next to the Alcazar, where you can find some pretty cool stuff.

There are plenty of tapas bars and restaurants for both lunch and dinner. You’re in a much less touristy city than Seville, which I’m sure you’ll appreciate.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME… 👉 Take a day trip to El Puerto de Santa Maria or spend a night there before heading to Cadiz 👉 Take a day trip to the dramatic, whitewashed village of Arcos de la Frontera

I recommend you head to Cadiz before or after dinner so that you can enjoy the night scene of this amazing city. One day is certainly not enough, but it still gives you a good insight.

Driving from Jerez de la Frontera to Cadiz only takes half an hour.

Where to stay in Cadiz: Áurea Casa Palacio Sagasta Budget options: Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres

Day 9 Cadiz

Cadiz is one of the most beautiful cities in Andalucia with its impressive cathedral being the most prominent landmark. Make sure you visit the tombs and climb the clock tower for spectacular views of the city and coast.

From the cathedral, take a walk along the seaside on the Paseo del Vendaval (where you also get awesome views of the cathedral if you turn around!) towards the San Sebastian Castle and Castillo Santa Catalina.

Alternatively, walk through the old town and stop by Tavira Tower to visit the Camara Obscura and admire the cathedral from above.

Between the two fortresses (it is only possible to visit Catalina Castle now) you find Cadiz’ most beautiful urban beach, La Caleta Beach.

Cadiz food Market is a unique place to have lunch to soak in the radiant vibe, but you can also get great food in other parts of the city like La Viña or around the Cathedral.

Day 10 Ronda – Setenil de las Bodegas – Malaga

This is the final day of your road trip in Andalucia, and you’ll make two epic stops on the way back to Malaga. Start the day early with a breakfast of champs so that you’re ready to take in everything this day.

Driving from Cadiz to Ronda takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Once you get to Ronda, there is plenty of parking in the streets before you get to the historic center. However, for only a few hours, you might as well leave the car in a public parking lot to save time driving around. I usually leave it in the one at the top of the shopping street and walk down the shopping street to the historic center.

The most prominent attraction in Ronda is without a doubt the majestic Puente Nuevo which dramatically connects the two sides of the El Tajo Gorge the town is set upon. To get the best view, cross the bridge and walk down the path of Camino de Los Molinos.

From the top of Puente Nuevo, you can also walk the Hemingway pathway to the famous viewpoints of Mirador de Aldehuela and Balcón del Coño where you’ll get the whole countryside in front of you.

Take a walk down to the Puente Viejo (the old bridge) and visit the Arab baths before heading back to the shopping street for lunch on your way back to the car.

Yes, Ronda is home to Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring, but I don’t recommend visiting. It’s situated next to Puente Nuevo. But since it’s still being used, your innocent ticket money will go to more bullfights. Until they stop this cruel activity, please be a responsible traveler and avoid it.

Your next stop is Setenil de Las Bodegas – the village that’s built in the rock.

Driving from Ronda to Setenil de Las Bodegas takes approximately 20 minutes on narrow mountain roads. The scenery is breathtaking! Setenil de Las Bodegas is tiny. Really tiny. So the parking options aren’t that many, but just before entering the village, there is a public parking lot or you can drive past and above the village and park along the street.

You don’t need much more than an hour in the village to see it all, as it’s pretty much just two streets, one on each side of the river. They take you under the rock where shops and restaurants are built straight into the rock wall and the overhanging rock creates natural shade. It’s possible to drive through here too, which is pretty cool!

If you want to sit down at any of the cave bars to have a drink or tapas, there are plenty of options. To see the little village from above, just walk up the road that goes around it for awesome views.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME… 👉 Visit Zahara de la Sierra for the best views 👉 Head to Cueva del Gato for a refreshing swim 👉 Visit the white village Cortes de la Frontera 👉 Visit Casares and the Roman baths of Hedionda 👉 Visit the blue Smurf Village of Juzcar

Driving back to Malaga from Setenil de Las Bodegas takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you still have time when you return to Malaga, enjoy the atmosphere and tapas scene to the fullest. This is truly an enchanting city!

How to get to southern Spain

Southern Spain is easily commuted by road from the rest of the country and from Portugal but also has international airports in Málaga, Seville, Jerez de la Frontera, and Almeria.

This southern Spain road trip starts and ends in Málaga which is the airport with most international flights and normally cheaper flight deals than the other airports in Andalucia.

But you can easily fly into Seville or Jerez de la Frontera and move around on the days if that works better for you.

LOOK FOR FLIGHTS HERE

Rent a car for your south Spain road trip

Before you start your south Spain road trip, you’ll need a car. Unless you have your own you can use, you probably need to rent one for the occasion.

Before you choose your rental car, make sure you consider how many you’ll be in the car and how much luggage you’ll bring.

Southern Spain is not considered a safe place to leave your belongings visible in the car, so make sure you can fit everything into the luggage compartment whenever you leave the car parked.

Further, I recommend you get full coverage when you book your rental car because things happen, especially in southern Spain. I can’t even count the rifts and the dents I have on my car and they all came while my car was parked.

If this happens and you don’t have full coverage, it can turn out expensive. To give you an idea, I once needed a rental car to drive from Seville to Málaga airport.

I left it for 2 hours outside my apartment in Seville and it had gotten a rift on the back when I got back. Of course, it doesn’t always happen, but better to be safe than sorry.

If you are curious about traveling by van, I have a dedicated article about campervanning in Spain after living fulltime in a van for over 2 years.

RENT A CAR HERE

Driving in southern Spain

In general, driving in southern Spain is pretty easy and the main roads are fairly well-maintained. The more rural you get, the more bumpy and narrow the roads get.

Here are some general driving rules to keep in mind when driving in southern Spain:

• You drive on the right side of the road
• Overtaking can only be done on the left side of the car you want to pass
• It’s illegal to talk on the phone without a hands-free device (headphones are not allowed) while driving
• The alcohol limit is 0.5
• You need a UK sticker on the rear of the car if you drive a UK-registered vehicle

Make it a responsible Spain road trip

Unfortunately, there are places in Andalucia experiencing overtourism as well as unethical animal tourism is widely spread as a part of the culture. As a responsible traveler , you don’t want to contribute to either. Here are a few things to keep in mind when on a south of Spain road trip.

Avoid animal tourism

Animal tourism comes in many forms and while there are ethical animal encounters like observing mountain goats when hiking or heading to some of the best places for whale watching in the world in the Strait of Gibraltar, there are cruel animal tourism activities too.

First, I’ll mention bullfights. While the pro-bullfighting movement will disguise this activity in the name of culture, there is nothing ethical about torturing and killing living beings for people’s amusement.

Luckily, more and more tourists see that these days. However, a lot of travelers visit the bullrings outside performance times as a pure tourist attraction. It’s also included in many tours, especially in strong bullfighting cities like Seville and Ronda.

But what happens when you pay a ticket fee to a bullring? Money goes to support more bullfights.

Do you want to support that? Only you have the answer, but I know that I won’t.

Another unethical animal activity, that unfortunately still happens, is donkey rides. You can ride a donkey in Mijas Pueblo in Costa del Sol to see the village. But there are so many reasons why you should not do that !

First of all, they carry way too much weight, they aren’t treated properly, and not getting enough rest or playtime. The animals are standing all day and night without the possibility to lay down to sleep.

There are organizations like the Donkey Sanctuary that work hard to improve the donkey’s well-being, but there’s a long way to go. To learn more about donkeys and their work, visit the Refugio del Burrito instead where they rescue donkeys and mules from all over the country.

Finally, there are a few zoos and aquariums in Andalucia. I’d recommend you to stay away from them as they’re for-profit and put tourists’ amusement in front of animal welfare – or release animals into the wild when possible.

Respect the local communities

Whether you travel to popular tourist destinations or you go a bit more off the beaten path, make sure you always respect the local communities. It’s common sense really, but with the increasing Instagram tourism, it seems like people’s front doors become the place to stay in line for pictures.

Just imagine that was your front door. And I’m not saying you can’t take pictures in cute streets with charming blue doors and flower pots. Just consider your behavior when doing so.

There are also a lot of tourists that don’t hold their alcohol, especially on the coast. This is also where you should consider whether a bikini is enough to wear when you walk between the beach and your hotel. Most of the time I’d say that a t-shirt or shorts would make a comfortable difference for the locals that come home from work so they don’t have to deal with half-naked tourists walking around.

Also, the language can be a barrier. Most of the time, it’s enough with a humble smile and some sign language if they don’t know English. Just don’t take it for granted that they speak other than Spanish, especially in the smaller villages.

Reflections on a 10-day Andalusia road trip

There’s no doubt. As a destination for a spectacular road trip, southern Spain is full of amazing things to see and do. 10 days only gives you a small taste of what the region has to offer and I’m sure you’re already thinking about coming back for more.

Though a lot of the places suggested in this itinerary can be crowded and are very popular with tourists, they are must-see places for any first-timer in the region.

Make sure you’re prepared and have booked tickets in advance where you want to enter, especially for Alhambra and the Caminito del Rey, so that you don’t miss out on them.

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Must See Andalucia 7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

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Andalucia is one of those travel destinations that a lot of people have preconceived ideas about. Bullfights, Moorish architecture, the magic of the countryside. Beyond what the word Andalucia might stir up in your imagination, this southern province of Spain has so many lesser-known sights to discover.

Planning your trip to Southern Spain ? Below are some places to stay, things to do, and more. Make sure to book ahead when planning your trip to Andalucia as some experiences will have zero availability on the day of, like the Alhambra or Caminito del Rey.

• Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces Ticket, Granada (advance tickets are a must!)
• El Caminito del Rey Entry Ticket (these sell out!)
• Seville Cathedral and Giralda Skip-the-Line Ticket (most popular sight in Seville!)
• Seville Royal Alcazar Tickets (avoid an hour in line, unlike me)
• Seville Food Tour: Tapas, Wine, History & Traditions
• La Casa Mata Central, Malaga (great location, very affordable)
• Boabdil Guesthouse, Ronda (favourite place I stayed!)
• Las Casas de El Arenal, Seville (central, rooftop terrace)
• Verona, Granada (great location)

Looking to travel around Andalucia independently?   Click here to check  Spain rental car rates !

Seven days in Andalucia is hardly going to be enough time. At almost every single place I went to, I wished for longer. In a week, you can see some of the cultural highlights of Andalucia including Seville and the Alhambra. You also will have time to experience the countryside of Southern Spain, which in my opinion is the real highlight of this trip.

Table of Contents

7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Length:  8 days, 7 nights Start and End Point:  Malaga, can start in Granada or Seville Cities:  Ronda, Seville, Granada Hikes:  Caminito del Rey , El Torcal de Antequera

Top 5 Experiences to Have in Southern Spain

• Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
• Hike the world’s (formerly) most dangerous hike, El Caminito del Rey
• Soak up the atmosphere of the white villages (pueblo blancos ) of Cadiz
• Wander Seville’s streets and indulge in tapas and sangria
• Visit the Alhambra and see the Moorish architecture and gardens

Renting a Car in Andalusia

While you could do this itinerary using day trips and getting between cities with buses and trains, a car will give you a lot more flexibility.

I recommend and use Discover Cars . It compares local Spanish and international companies so you can get the best deal. If you don’t have full coverage, you can also add this to your booking so you’re covered.

Even though it can be tempting to go with the cheapest price, don’t go with a company with low ratings. In Spain, I used Hertz and was very happy with the car and the service.

Driving in Spain is fairly easy and straightforward, although city driving can be a little confusing if there are road construction closures. My mistake in Spain was using the GPS that came with the car. It was not at all updated so it had me going in circles in Malaga. I highly recommend having Google Maps for at least the cities saved in your phone as it will be more up-to-date.

When to Visit Southern Spain

This trip would be suitable for any time of the year as southern Spain is one of the warmest places in Europe. It gets very hot and crowded in the summer so I would head there either in the spring or autumn. This could also be budget-friendly as accommodation and car rental may be cheaper in the off-season.

I visited in October and the weather was quite pleasant. Most of the time it was suitable to be wearing a light sweater or t-shirt. Some places were crowded but it was easy to find yourself away from the crowds.

One Week in Spain Itinerary

Day 1: malaga.

Depending on your flight schedule you can either arrive the day before hiking the Caminito del Rey or the morning of and drive directly to the hike.

For me, this was hardly a travel day. I arrived very late into the Malaga airport and went straight to the guesthouse where I was staying. This was honestly one of the most frustrating drives I have ever done. The GPS in the rental car was not up to date and kept trying to direct us down roads in the center of Malaga that clearly had do not enter signs. Highly recommend using Google Maps here.

The Malaga Airport is a great budget option to arrive into if you are coming from outside of Spain as Ryanair flies into here. If you are arriving from somewhere else in Spain, it might make more sense to take the high-speed train to Seville or Granada.

If you have more time in Malaga, it is one of the best beach cities in Europe as it is on the sunny Costa de Sol and there are plenty of activities in Malaga to make the most of your visit.

Day 2: El Caminito del Rey Hike

Make sure you have your Caminito del Rey tickets booked in advance for your hike. I booked a time around 2:30 pm so I would have lots of time to have breakfast and drive from Malaga to the hike. If tickets are unavailable, you can join a tour to ensure that you get to hike the Caminito del Rey, it is not to be missed. If you aren’t renting a car for this trip, there are tours with the bus from Malaga included, like this one .

I enjoyed my breakfast at Gloria Hoyos before going to a local grocery store to grab lunch supplies. There was limited options for where to eat on the way to Caminito del Rey so it would be best to have food with you.

The drive to El Caminito del Rey is gorgeous. It passes through beautiful scenery and white villages. The hike itself is stunning. With boardwalks clung onto the sides of a steep canyon with towering mountains, it is a once-in-a-lifetime sort of experience. It was once claimed to be the most dangerous hike in the world but it is now newly renovated with new boardwalks. You can see more photos and read a detailed guide to hiking the Caminito del Rey here .

After spending approximately 2-3 hours on the hike, drive to Ronda. I was able to arrive just before sunset and check into the Boabdil  Guesthouse . This guesthouse was so comfortable and was a fantastic place to stay while visiting Ronda.

After check-in , walk to the famous Puente Nuevo bridge to see the sunset and the bridge light up at night before having dinner in Ronda.

Day 3: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos

Spend the morning exploring Ronda and seeing the town. It was nice to walk to all the viewpoints of the bridge as well as walk down below it to get a view of just how large the bridge is. To make the most of your time in Ronda, there is a guided walking tour so you don’t miss any of the highlights.

After exploring Ronda, head out on your day trip of the Pueblos Blancos, or white villages, of Andalucia. There are so many villages to choose from but I chose the route that made the most sense to end up in Seville at day’s end.

After leaving Ronda, I checked out the village of Setenil de las Bodegas.  This village is known for its cave buildings. Head towards Grazalema and have lunch here. After, take the scenic drive through Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park on the CA-9104 road. Grazalema was probably my favourite white village that I visited and I would class the drive through the park as a drive of a lifetime. The final village of the day is Zahara de la Sierra , which has a castle above the village. Check out my post on the Pueblos Blancos for more details on the best views in Ronda and more information on the route I drove.

Finish up your day trip to the pueblos blancos by driving to Seville . I stayed in an apartment here, La Casa de San Lorenzo , which I highly recommend as it was large and close walking distance to the main sights of Seville. Another good option in Seville is the very affordable hotel, Pensión Córdoba or Las Casas de El Arenal , a beautiful boutique hotel.

Day 4-5: Seville

With two days in Seville, you should be able to see the main sights. I left my itinerary for Seville with lots of space in it to explore the city and not just be inside buildings all day. You can check out my complete guide to two days in Seville here .

Spend your first day in Seville exploring the historical buildings of the Seville Cathedral and Giralda and the Real Alcázar . The cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and is definitely worth a visit. The walk up the Giralda bell tower gives you views over the city and is definitely a must-see. If you are not a huge fan of architecture, you can skip the Real Alcázar, as you will see plenty of Moorish architecture at the Alhambra in Granada. I enjoyed seeing both palaces but it can feel a bit repetitive if it isn’t your thing.

I highly recommend booking skip-the-line tickets for both the Seville Cathedral and the Re a l Alcazar as I ended up having to wait an hour in line to buy tickets.

The first day in Seville is a good day for exploring the streets of the city and getting a chance to try lots of tapas and Spanish drinks. My favourite place for tapas ended up being Bodego dos de Mayo . If you end up near it, the Metropol Parasol (Setas de Seville), is a great place to get views of the city and watch the sunset.

On your second day in Seville, try to make time to explore the neighbourhood of Triana before heading to the Plaza de Espana . The Plaza de Espana is one of the top sights to see in Seville. The gorgeous tile details and bridges are a highlight. It was one of my favourite things that I did in Seville. There were street performers where you can watch flamenco dancers and have a relaxing afternoon. You can easily spend hours in Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park . It’s a huge area and there are lots of photo opportunities.

Day 6: Torcal de Antequera

Day six will have you spending the night in Granada. While you can drive straight to Granada, I found it was worth the detour near Antequera to see the Torcal de Antequera . This mountain-top park has unique-looking karst formations. It was a nice break in highway driving that took us up into the Sierra del Torcal mountains. You have an opportunity to do either a short 45 minute hike through the formations or a longer hike here. If you’re short on time, you can just park and walk to the lookout point at the park.

You should arrive in Granada with plenty of time to find a nice tapas restaurant. One of the unique things about Granada is that every time you order a drink, they give you a tapa with it. I stayed at Hostal Verona here and it was a reasonable walking distance to everything and quite affordable.

Day 7: Granada and the Alhambra

I devoted the entire day to visiting the Alhambra . This is the one thing you really have to plan in advance and book your tickets for. I had my tickets booked for an early entrance to the Nasrid Palace , for 10:30 am, and it worked perfectly. I recommend taking the bus or taxi up to the Alhambra because the walk is quite long and steep. I have a full guide to the city of Granada here .

The Alhambra is a huge palace complex that does take a few hours to see properly. There are endless photographs you can take here and it offers views over Granada. The fountains and gardens here are gorgeous as well. I did find that some places get very crowded with other people, especially the start of the Nasrid Palace.

After exploring the Alhambra, walk down the steps to the city and have a late lunch. The steps down are actually quite scenic and offer up lovely streets views of Granada. The Malvasia Taberna is a fantastic restaurant to have lunch at that is not too far from the Alhambra. There are lots of tapas restaurants nearby that looked good as well.

One of the most popular places to watch the sunset is from the Mirador San Nicholas . It’s quite the walk up steps through tiny alleyways to find it. The mirador offer up great views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains behind it. At sunset, it is packed with people so you might want to arrive a bit early to secure your spot. The neighbourhood that this view point is in, the Albayzin , is full of cobbled streets and is a good location for tapas bars as well as souvenir shops.

Day 8: La Rijana

Depending on your flight or train schedule, you may have time for a beach visit today. My flight was from Malaga in the late afternoon so I had time to drive from Granada and stop to see the Mediterranean. If you have a bit more time, you can visit this beach as a day trip from Granada and snorkel at Rijana .

There are many beaches that you can visit on the way to the airport. Playa la Rijana was a gorgeous beach framed with cliffs and was a good place to end this southern Spain road trip. Keep an eye out for jellyfish , there has been a problem with beaches near here having an abundance of them. You can see more photos of this gem on the Costa Tropical here . If you have extra time before your flight, there are plenty of things to do in Malaga .

Where to Stay in Andalucia

Andalucia has some really good options for accommodation at a great price. Compared to other places in Europe, I found the rooms and apartments to generally be more spacious. In addition to traditional accommodation, Spain also has some really wonderful vegan and eco-friendly hotels .

Malaga I stayed at La Casa Mata Central in Malaga. Super budget-friendly and in a good location. Ronda I stayed at Boabdil Guesthouse and loved the location and the rooms which were spacious and super comfortable. I would have happily stayed longer than one night.

For a hotel, Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel   is a good option for Ronda. The rooms look gorgeous as it is in a restored historic building and there is an option for breakfast, which is important as breakfast is nearly impossible to find in Ronda. Seville I rented an apartment, La Casa de San Lorenzo . The location was fantastic as it was walking distance to everything. The apartment was enormous and has everything you need, including a washer and dryer.

Las Casas de El Arenal a beautiful boutique hotel with a terrace in a fantastic location. Granada I stayed at Verona and loved how affordable it was. It was just a short distance to the sights and although the room was a bit small, it was still quite reasonable.

What to Eat in Andalucia

If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you can find some great food options in Spain.

Tapas are truly the highlight here. I think almost every meal I had was made up of tapas. And they come in surprisingly large portion sizes too! I know that meat tapas are quite popular but the vegetarian ones are very yummy. There are some unusual flavour combinations like eggplant with cane sugar honey or fried asparagus with a mayo dip. Some are definitely outside of my usual food comfort zone but it is a lot of fun to try the different options.

Churros are a must-try in Spain. They are best when dipped in chocolate. I wasn’t the biggest fan of them but they are still an experience to try, most people love them.

Tinto de Verano is often outshined by the classier and more expensive sangria, but it is delicious. It’s essentially red wine mixed with either Sprite or Lemonade Fanta. It’s fizzy and refreshing and a popular summertime drink.

Gazpacho is one of those things I did not understand before visiting Andalucia. I get it now, freshly made gazpacho is delicious. It makes for a great lunch on hot days. While you can find it all over Spain, gazpacho originated from Andalucia.

One Week in Andalusia, Spain

One week in Andalusia is just enough time to visit some of the hotspots in this region. There is tons to see and do so with more time, you could fit in a visit to Cordoba and spend time relaxing on the beaches of the Costa Sol near Malaga. Overall, I was very happy with this itinerary for my first visit to Spain and left me wanting to explore more of Andalusia and Spain.

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33 comments.

I have been absolutely dying to visit Spain, and Andalucia is at the top of my list! Great itinerary and tips, I’m usually pretty lazy with booking activities in advance but I’ll make sure I book the Alhambra and hike in advance.

Glad you like the itinerary! I too am lazy about booking activities in advance but here you definitely have to or you end up disappointed.

Beautiful photos!

Is it bad that the food photos enough make me want to visit? Spain seems like one of those places I’d fall in love with, though it’s pretty easy for cities as some of the one’s you visited to catch my heart. I’m always seeing Spain/Portugal itineraries, but seems like Spain probably has so much to offer that it deserves its own trip.

My best friend lives in Spain and I’ve yet to visit her there. I am fascinated by Southern Spain and love seeing the Moorish influence on architecture and art!

I am going to Spain in August for work and this comes in handy, although I can’t travel to all of them at once I can sure do some of them connected.

This looks awesome!! I’ve only been to Madrid and Barcelona, but have been aching to get back to Spain. The Caminito del Rey is definitely on my list of day hikes, and this is a region I neeeeeed to get to for the good food. Thinking of cycling this itinerary, so I’ll keep it bookmarked!!

HOLY SHIZ your pictures are amazing! This is the prettiest Spain road trip I’ve ever seen! What camera do you use?! Gahhhhh this is giving me serious wanderlust.

Driving really does seem like the perfect way to go. You saw some absolutely beautiful places. I especially love Maria Luisa Park in Seville with the water going right through the park. Just lovely.

We love a perfect roadtrip and this was a great itinerary that I will keep in mind for future. Also, beautiful photos <3

Wow Spain looks so dreamy. I was supposed to go To Valencia In March..the east side but did not work out..thanks for sharing your wonderful post…loved it!

I keep saying I need to visit Spain and yet I end up booking flights elsewhere. Reading this has motivated me to not put it off any longer. Looks incredible!

Southern Spain looks so beautiful! Spain is a country I overlooked for many years, but the more pictures I see of it the more I want to go!

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My friend and I just followed your itinerary for an 7/8 day road trip in Andalucía – we finished today and had the best time! Late November seemed like a good time to travel here as places were a bit less busy and there are lots of beautiful autumn colours. Particular highlights for us included Ronda and the drive to Seville through some of the pueblos blancos and the natural park; roaming the streets of central Seville; and of course the Alhambra in Granada. Having been to Cordoba on a separate trip I would recommend to anyone with a day extra to add this in as la Mezquita is one of the most amazing buildings I’ve ever seen. Thanks so much for all your tips and tricks, this was a wonderful trip and we were glad to have your guide to follow!

Hi Susanna, thank you so much for your comment! I’m so happy my guide was useful for your trip. It sounds like you had a wonderful time in Andalucia. How lovely that you got to experience the autumn colours there. The highlights of your trip are mine too, it was such a beautiful area to road trip around. I’m hoping to make a visit to Cordoba on my next trip to Spain, I’ve heard great things about it!

I am planning a trip to southern Spain at the end of June ( I know it’s gonna be hot and hopefully the EU crowds are less than Aug/Sept). A couple of questions: Did you have to seek out vegetarian tapas and such or readily available in many restaurants? Also, we wanted to get to some good beach front places to relax but I am reading that Malaga is too touristy and crowded? Any quiet, nice beach towns you can recommend? Thanks.

Hi Mehul, I didn’t need to specifically search out vegetarian tapas. Luckily, Spain is quite easy to be vegetarian and there were always a few things on the menu that I could eat. Malaga is going to be more touristy as it does have a cruise ship port as well. Cadiz is another option but again it has a cruise port. Check out Estepona, Nerja, or Marbella for a beach town, they won’t be quiet as this coast is very popular, but they are great alternatives to Malaga. Have a wonderful trip to Spain!

We just completed your 7 days route from Malaga to Ronda, Seville, Granada, and back to fly from Malaga and it was a wonderfull trip everywhere we went made even more beautifull by the spring flowers dotting our drive from Ronda to Seville and then Granada. I would suggest adding Mijas as one of the white villages to visit out of Malaga especially on Sunday with their farmers market. Mijas donkey ride was one of our trip highlights 🙂 . We were also lucky to visit Seville during the April Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) which features traditional flamenco dancing, horse and carts rides for all ages. Thank you vey much for your recommendations and planned route. We really enjoyed our Andalucia trip.

Thank you so much for your comment! It’s great to hear that this Andalucia itinerary worked well for you, how special to be there during spring flower season. Mijas looks like a nice place to visit, thanks for the recommendation.

Amazing Southern Spain road trip. I followed this itinerary and did not regret. Informative, accurate and well organized.

Thanks for your comment Sergei! Happy to hear that this Spain itinerary worked out well for your vacation.

Hi, have just found your itinerary. It’s exactly what we would like to do. Our only concern is parking the car each night. We were thinking of going in October. Is parking a problem at the accommodation recommended by you. Thank you

Hi Anne, glad the itinerary is helpful for you! So for the places I stayed at parking was either on street or in city parking lots. I understand your worry. I made sure to tell each accommodation I would need parking and asked them about parking before arriving so I could put it into my saved places on Google Maps.

Great tips!!! Love this article, love your writing:)

Hi Yael, glad you enjoyed the article! Thanks for your comment.

My wife and I are halfway through yor itinerary, starting in Malaga. We arrived in Seville late in the afternoon at the end of a day’s drive through the White Villages and National Park. My wife was all ready to move to Grazalema after spending a hour there! Lack of the ability to speak Spanish is standing in the way of that idea! Thank you for putting this guide together. Wherever possible we have used your links to book car rental, tours, etc. The Caminito del Rey was amazing and it can only get better with Seville’s attractions and Granada at the end of the week.

Thanks for your comment Donald! I’m so happy to hear that this itinerary has been useful for you and that you are enjoying your time in Spain. I felt the same way as your wife after visiting Seville! I appreciate you using my affiliate links and hope the rest of your vacation is amazing!

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The Best Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary Through Fiery Andalucia

April 12, 2021

Andalucia stands apart from Spain at the tip of the Iberian peninsula, drenched in sunshine, snow and, above all else, character. Having spent years exploring this part of the world, here’s the best southern Spain road trip itinerary through Andalucia.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Southern Spain Itinerary

My memories of southern spain.

Al Andalus. I think about those words right now amid another sea of change. 

Al Andalus refers to the part of southern Spain previously ruled by the Moors, a rough approximation of modern day Andalucia. Coins from 716 bear the name in both Latin and Arabic and the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Granada reveals its history through its name: Alhambra. The red one.

You’ll find traces of that Moorish legacy across Spain’s largest region, from the haunting arches of the Mezquita in Cordoba to the latticework in the major meeting point in Seville: La Giralda. 

The timing of this post was brought to you as a result of the #SpainOnMyMind campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with the  Spain Tourist Office. We always keep the right to write what we like, as ever, as always. Otherwise, what’s the point?

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• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

What is Andalucia Like?

But Andalucia has a powerful character of its own, one fierce with tradition, passion and, if we can perhaps take a break from the serious for a moment, some stunningly cold red soup. 

For years, I lived there, on the outskirts of Seville, in a place called Aljarafe. I walked through olive groves, celebrated at village ferias and tried not to blush as everyone stopped and stared at my pale skin and blonde hair at every doctor’s appointment or foray into the local post office. 

At weekends, we’d grab skis in the winter, bound for the slopes of the Sierra Nevada. In summer, we’d flee to the coast. Spring saw the silence of Semana Santa followed by the week long extravaganza of Feria and in autumn, we’d join visiting friends to tour around the rest of Andalucia. 

The Practicalities

Planning a trip to southern spain.

The number one tip for planning a southern Spain road trip itinerary is this: don’t go in August! Many places close down but the temperature in the inland cities remains ferociously, unforgivingly hot. Many an overconfident traveller has been rendered into a sweaty, collapsing, heatstroked blob by failing to take this into account. 

Seriously, guys. Seville gets seriously hot. Candle melting, tyre poppingly, tourist trashingly hot. There’s a reason why locals still have siestas and why everyone who can leaves the city for the coast in the summer. 

It’s an amazing place. But plan your Andalucia itinerary for any season but summer.

When to Visit Southern Spain

When is the best time to visit southern Spain? In the shoulder season of spring and autumn and definitely not in the height of summer! While the coast can entertain you on the beach with a 30 degree breeze, in the city of Seville, temperatures can reach 50 degrees, with candles melting, tyres popping and visitors flagging. See how I wrote that again? I really want you to pay attention to this one simple fact!

Granada and the Alpujarras are cooler again but for a southern Spain itinerary where you can enjoy walking around, look to travel to Spain between May and June or late September and October. That’s also a great time to visit the white villages, or Pueblos Blancos, like Mojácar Pueblo in Almeria.

Winter is cool but not frozen and can be quite wet. You can ski on the slopes by the Alhambra but the resort is quite modest in size. 

To catch the festivals of Semana Santa and Feria, you need to check the calendar each year. The dates move around Easter and accommodation fills up fast.

What to Eat in Southern Spain

Tapas isn’t a stereotype in southern Spain, it’s a way of life. Even the most abandoned looking service station at the edge of the road serves up fresh, homemade tapas and it’s utterly delicious. 

People tend to have meals at home and tapas out with friends. Breakfast is a small but simple affair, typically consisting of toast and coffee darker than the heart of Satan. 

Mealtimes in Southern Spain

Lunch takes place pretty late according to US and UK customs, at around 3pm and dinner takes place between 9 and 10pm. In the tourist centres, you’ll be able to find restaurants open at other times but in the more remote areas, there’s no chance, I’m afraid. 

Pack some snacks if you don’t think you can last that long but it’s worth giving it a try at least once during your southern Spain itinerary. 

Traditional Dishes in Southern Spain

Jamon is famous across Spain but the finest in the world comes from Andalucia. Known as Jamon Iberico de Bellota or Pata Negra, this melt in the mouth charcuterie is the most expensive cured meat in the world. Pata negra means “black hoof” and the pigs are raised outside in a free range manner and fed a diet of acorns and berries. 

Not every tapas bar will serve it, however, and that’s probably a good thing for both your wallet and your waistline. But do make sure to try some at least once. Although, be warned. It may convert you into a jamon snob for life.

Gazpacho, poorly described as a “cold tomato soup” makes sense when you feel the real heat of Andalucia. Cordoba and Seville jostle for ownership over the more locally developed salmorejo, a delicious vinegar-based cold soup with a boiled egg served on top. 

Other key dishes includes gambas, albondigas and tortilla. While you will find paella for sale in the main cities, the rice hails from Valencia and so it’s not a typical dish of southern Spain. 

• Read more about the best tapas bars in Seville here.

Where To Stay in Southern Spain

You will find yourself overflowing with characterful and atmospheric places to stay in southern Spain. While the big chains do exist in the big cities, the true delight of any southern Spain trip itinerary is to delight in the sense of place. 

With that in mind, I’d highly recommend staying in ancient forts, renovated palaces and converted monasteries in this Andalucia itinerary.

To make life easier, the Spanish government have created a series of Paradores, hotels generally built in or from buildings of historic interest and with menus sourced from local traditions and flavours. 

That said, you’ll find some stunning luxury properties across Andalucia, and some budget boltholes too. Just don’t expect much choice in the rural areas and smaller towns but try not to worry about it: most places are beautiful and if you make a mistake, the outdoor scenery will compensate.

Also, if you’re from the US, get ready for a different style of service. Tipping is, by and large, not expected and nor is the attitude that the customer is always right. 

Road Trip Through Southern Spain: At A Glance

• Day 1 – Arrive in Malaga
• Day 2 – Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera 
• Day 3 – Cadiz
• Day 4 – Doñana National Park to Seville
• Day 5 – Seville
• Day 6 – Cordoba & The Mezquita
• Day 7 – Granada & The Alhambra
• Day 8 – The Alpujarras Mountains
• Day 9 – Malaga

Have additional days in Andalucia? Add Almería, Malaga city centre and Gibraltar to your southern Spain itinerary.

Southern Spain Itinerary: Day By Day

Ok, enough pleasantries and travel tips. Let’s start your Andalucia itinerary!

Arrive in Malaga

Malaga has a bad rep in the UK for being a place where people go to get drunk in the sun. And, well, there is some truth to that.

However, Malaga itself has a beautiful Old Town and great access to the southern coast of Spain. It’s also the biggest airport in southern Spain. While Seville and Granada do have their own international airports, the flight paths are more limited and you’ll often find that Malaga provides you with more choice. If that doesn’t work, look at flights into Faro in neighbouring Portugal. 

Another way to fly into southern Spain involves a transfer in Madrid or Barcelona and hopping on a domestic flight to Seville or Granada. If that’s what you choose, then tweak the order of this Southern Spain itinerary.

However, I’ve opted for the easiest option for most travellers and have you flying in to Malaga. It’s easy to pick up a rental car, the roads are smooth, wide and straightforward and the scenery is beautiful. 

Are you ready? Let’s go.

Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera

Not to be confused with Rondda in the grey and drizzly South Wales Valley, the Ronda in Andalucia will sear itself into your memory on account of its ludicrously tall bridge with a teetering fall and river below. 

This small Andalusian town clings to the rocky outcrops of the El Tajo gorge, the Guadelevin River flowing far, far beneath. Today, you’ll find a genteel and welcoming atmosphere but that betrays a stormier past: the local bandit museum fills in the details.

Back in the day, this part of Andalucia was wild country, with blood weddings, bandits and melancholy. That element of sorrow and danger underpins the music of flamenco, a sorrowful, foot-stomping display of passion despite the apparent cheer of polka dot dresses in tourist kiosk windows. 

• A great place to stay in Ronda is the Parador de Ronda, with rooms overlooking the steep drop into that gorge.

Jerez de la Frontera

I love Jerez de la Frontera. 

Known as the home of sherry, the bodegas that illustrate the story behind the underrated drink tell so many great stories.

First, the sherry. The drink takes, on average, an astonishing century to make. Bodegas show barrels on top of barrels, as craftsmen mix the produce from one with the one below it and leave it for a while. Then mix from the one below. And so on.

The process is called solera and all told, over 100 years of craftsmanship go into one simple drink.

To call a drink “sherry,” derived from “jerez,” it must come from Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, or El Puerto de Santa María in the Cadiz region of Andalucia.

But as if that the sherry were not enough, Jerez also has the most famous equestrian training centre in Spain  and is a beautiful place to visit in its own right.

• Top tip: arrange for a sherry tasting in one of the local bodegas. Discover manzanilla, a strong, white fortified wine and make sure to take a few bites of tapas at the same time.

The coastal city of Cadiz can seem like a hidden gem in comparison to some of the more famous cities on this southern Spain trip itinerary. Its beach, the Playa de la Caleta, sits right by the Old Town, while local fishing boats bob on by. 

If the sea scene looks familiar, it’s because it doubled as Havana in the Bond film Die Another Day, when a dazzling Halle Berry emerged from the sea. Two former Moorish fortresses overlook the coast, as does the balneario, a spa that snuggles into the cove.

Cadiz also is home to the oldest covered market in Spain, the Mercado Central de Abastos. First built in 1838, and renovated significantly since then, around 150 market stalls stand there today, with calls of manzanilla, empanadas and, these days, even sushi.

To escape the city and head to more wild expanses of sand, drive for less than an hour to the Playa del Faro. The lighthouse here, the Cabo de Trafalgar, looks mighty on the horizon, but the best place to eat is the the thatched shack Bar Las Dunas at the point where the road turns into sand. 

And in case you were wondering? Yes, it is the Trafalgar of the battle of the same name. Although it’s hard to imagine that in the peace-filled sunshine waves today.

Doñana National Park

Can I tell you a secret? The Doñana National Park is an incredible spot that too many people miss from their southern Spain itinerary. 

Think flamingoes spilling over tranquil lakes. The Spanish imperial eagle amid undisturbed reeds. And, if you’re really lucky, the Iberian lynx.

Of course, I am not the only person who has noticed. Doñana is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre and you can book tours from Seville to explore the park. It’s just that I see it missing from many a south Spain itinerary and cannot understand for the life of me why that is.  

Even the nearby village, El Rocio, captures hearts and minds with the smoky incense of her shrines. And the fact that bars have raised tables so that cabelleros who arrive on horseback don’t need to dismount to enjoy a cerveza. 

Within the context of this Andalucia road trip itinerary, I’d recommend you spend the night near Cadiz, spend the day at Doñana and then head to Seville to make the most of the evening there. 

Ah, Seville. This is the biggest hitting of the cities in Andalucia, with the most to do and the hairiest of introductions if you’re running this southern Spain itinerary as a road trip. Those flyovers on the entrance to the narrow, narrow Old Town are fierce. 

All that said, as Spain’s 4th largest city, you can expect to find a lot to do in Seville. I lived there for nearly four years and still wouldn’t say that I had explored every last bodega, shrine and cobbled street.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. 

Seville’s Golden Days (Quite Literally)

Seville made its name during the literal gold rush of the “discovery” of the “New World.”

Christopher Columbus sought financing from Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand in the grounds of Seville’s Real Alcazar.

He recruited sailors from the district of Triana and Columbus’ remains are said to be buried within the grounds of Seville’s Cathedral. The Archivo General de Indias houses over 80 million pages of documents relating to Spain’s overseas empire.

At one point in time, Seville was the most powerful city in the world. 

Seville in More Modern Times

Today, unsurprisingly, much of the rich architecture and state buildings stem from that time. But the city hasn’t frozen.

 The new addition of Las Setas, the mushrooms, officially known as the Metropol Parasol, may have caused a stir at the time but seem to have won over tourists, if not locals, over the years. 

The Plaza de España, a great expanse of ceramic creation set amid a grand, leafy park, dates back only to 1928 and the Ibero-American Exposition.

You could spend your time so many different ways in Seville, but a few things make everyone’s list: La Giralda, the Cathedral spire built on top of a mosque in the atmospheric Old Town; the Barrio Santa Cruz and its rooftop bars; the Flamenco museum or shows (skip the tourist performances and catch the mournful real thing at the La Carbonería;) and the view from the river (make like a tourist and take a cruise.) And the tapas. Oh, how you can’t miss the tapas. 

After that, here’s a more in depth guide on the best things to do in Seville.

• Seville off the beaten path: the city’s hidden gems
• Exploring Triana, the wrong side of the tracks in Seville.
• The best souvenirs to buy in Seville: a shopping guide.
• The best places to stay in Seville
• The best tapas bars in Seville

The beautiful city of Cordoba would be a show-stopper if it didn’t have the misfortune of being so close to both Seville and Granada. It has narrow cobbled streets with white-washed walls and bright pink flowers, surrounding olive groves and fragrant orange trees amid tapas bars with centuries of history…

It’s an enchanting place. But with only one week to explore southern Spain, I’m going to suggest you keep your visit here short and spend more time in Seville and Granada at the Alhambra. 

However, there is one sight you absolutely must see. The mezquita or mosque or, to call it by its official name, the Catedral de Cordoba.

Confused? Let me explain. 

The Mezquita

Like many aspects of life in Andalucia, a lot changed when the Reyes Catolicos or Catholic Monarchs defeated the Moors and drove them out of the Iberian Peninsula. Until then, the building was a mosque. After the wars, it was converted to a Christian cathedral, complete with its own dome. 

If that sounds like a dry historical footnote, it’s not. Walk inside the candlelit shadows of the Mezquita to see a mesmerising series of rose pink and cream arches one after the other after the other in formation.

Then look up to see the inside of the dome. 

• Find everything you need to arrange your trip to the Mezquita here.

Named after the passionate pomegranate, the city of Granada would be an essential part of any southern Spain itinerary all on its own. But add in its prize attraction, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Alhambra and you’re looking at a bona fide, world class destination. 

The Alhambra

There are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And there are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Perched high on the deep green mountains of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, the burned red stone of the Alhambra Complex is a sight to behold. Not only is it one of the best places to visit in southern Spain, it’s one of the best in all of Spain and a major highlight on any European itinerary. It’s hard to imagine that this palace of delicate mosaics, perfectly proportioned fountains and fragrant rose gardens came to life at around the time that draughty stone castles popped up in wet and windier climates in Europe. There’s simply no competition.

As well as being one of the most beautiful monuments in Europe, the Alhambra also carries the weight of its own bloody history. Read more about the story of the Alhambra over here.

Visiting the Alhambra: You Must Book Tickets in Advance

To visit the Alhambra, you must buy tickets. And I mean you must! Tickets are sold in half hour slots online from here. If you’ve messed this bit up, you may still be able to enter the other areas but it’s the interior of the Nasrid Palace that’s the most spectacular to see. 

Allow at least half a day for your visit and be aware that you’ll probably need to walk for more than three miles to see it all. Therefore, avoid if you possibly can the midday sun and opt for an early morning or evening slot instead. 

Granada City Centre

The ancient Iberians, the Romans and the Visigoths have all enjoyed the fertile ground around the city of Granada, long before the Moors and the Christians battled it out on the peach-red earth. 

As a university town today, it mixes honey-coloured medieval architecture with coffee shops and cafes, Fair Trade markets and live music venues.

The Best Viewpoint in Granada

Go up the steps from the Albaicín’s Calle Cruz de la Rauda to the Ermita de San Miguel church and watch the sunset across the Alhambra.

Save your walking energy for the Alhambra earlier in the day and then enjoy drifting around the steep streets and barrios of Granada afterwards. Enjoy an early aperitivo (in Granada, the tapas is complimentary) and then relax into an evening meal or else head straight into the Alpujarras Mountains if your’e keen on an early morning hike.

The Alpujarras Mountains

Perched on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, the Alpujarras Mountains offer some of the most scenic and hair raising drives in the world. 

These beautiful, remote hideaways provided shelter to the Moors who fled persecution from the cities of southern Spain, first from Seville in 1248 and then Granada after 1492. They were also the site of a bloody rebellion in 1568, where the Moors lost once again. Their choice was religious conversion or departure. And Christian soldiers from Galicia were brought in to keep the peace. 

All that turmoil and bloodshed seems impossible to imagine now, as the streets of the Alpujarras whisper the scent of jasmine amid white washed walls, honeysuckle, hiking routes and calm. 

At Peace with Nature

The area is a respite from the energies of the cities. A balm for the heat felt elsewhere. 

Not that the area has escaped the siesta. Visit in the afternoon to see handwoven rugs and carpets hanging down the sides of houses, blocking out the lights while residents sleep. 

Look out for the traditional colours of red, green, black and white amid impossibly beautiful village walls. 

Here is a place for quiet contemplation – or energetic hiking. If you have any time spare, shop for handmade baskets and pottery and reflect on your southern Spain itinerary so far.

And here you are at the end of your one week in Spain itinerary, back at Malaga. 

If at all possible, I’d suggest you explore this gorgeous coastal city. Although it ‘s best known as the gateway to the popular tourist spot the Costa del Sol, it is a valuable destination to visit in its own right. 

On the new side of things lies the Picasso Museum. Then there’s the headline stealing Pompidou Centre.

But my favourite part remains the old cobbled streets, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Moorish citadels of the Alcazaba and Gilfarbaro. And perhaps most of all: the beach.

Malaga is a great place to notch up one last Mediterranean swim before you need to travel to the airport and head home.

Travel Tips For Southern Spain

Here are the answers to some FAQs about southern Spain itineraries…

Where are the best cities to visit in Spain?

The Alhmabra in Granada is the best site to see, followed by the Mezquita in Cordoba. Seville is the biggest inland city and Malaga and Cadiz are the main cities on the coast.

Is it possible to see Portugal, Morocco and Spain in two weeks?

Not really, I would say! At a squeeze, you could combine two of the three, either Morocco and Spain or Spain and Portugal. But it will be rushed.

What is there to see in Spain while travelling if I like nature?

So many places! This southern Spain road trip itinerary includes the Doñana UNESCO World Heritage Centre but there’s also El Torcal Park and the hikes around the Alpujarras mountains.

More on Travel in Spain

• How to spend the perfect week in Spain
• The best road trips in Spain and their self-drive itineraries
• 40 Interesting facts about Spain

More on Southern Spain

• Triana, the wrong side of the tracks
• The 15 tapas dishes in Seville you need to know
• A sneak peek into the olive oil harvest in Spain
• The truth behind those shocking images of Semana Santa in Spain
• Unlocking the quotes of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain
• The secret meaning of No8Do in Spain
• The best things to do in Seville, Spain
• What to buy in Seville: the perfect souvenir list
• Where to stay in Seville: your neighbourhood guide

Perfect Road Trip Planning

You’re in road trip heaven here, as we have everything from a full list of road trip essentials to the Ultimate Road Trip Planner .

We even have 101 fun road trip questions for your next drive , a collection of inspiring road trip quotes for your instagram caption ideas and a packing list for Spain . Happy planning!

2 thoughts on “The Best Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary Through Fiery Andalucia”

Super article, Thank you for making it easier for me prepare my itinerary to my favorite destination which i’ll be travelling to in 3 months time ;) asking out of curiosity do they have vegetarian food ;p?

Ah, you will have such a great time! You will be able to find vegetarian food but there isn’t a huge understanding about vegetarianism and veganism. Stick to dishes like salmorejo, gazpacho and pimientos de padron. Don’t be surprised if people look confused when you say you don’t eat meat – it’s still seen as a treat and mark of hospitality to give you animal based dishes. But it can be done! A lot of my extended family follow vegan and vegetarian diets and travelled happily enough through southern Spain.

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Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Andalucía

Last Updated on November 27, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a southern Spain itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming when you consider all of the incredible places to visit in this vast and diverse region. Boasting vibrant cities, sleepy beach towns and everything in between, heading to Andalucía is never a bad idea.

Known for its diverse landscape, fantastic cuisine, historic cities, and laid-back culture, Andalucía is one of the most popular and sought-after regions in the country. As one of the largest autonomous regions in Spain, Andalucía is filled with a complex history and culture unique to the rest of the country.

If you’re wondering what to see when spending 10 days in Southern Spain, then look no further. We have had the pleasure of spending months exploring this incredible region over several years and have gained a wealth of knowledge about travelling there.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Southern Spain

Before we get into the logistics of our itinerary, we need to discuss the best time of year to visit this sunny region.

A good portion of Andalucía is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine per year and, outside of the high Sierra Nevada mountains, the weather will rarely ever get cold enough for it to freeze or snow.

Because of this, Andalucía (and the Costa del Sol in particular) is a popular winter destination for northern Europeans looking to escape the cold, dark weather of their home countries.

However, while the months between November and March are certainly warmer than virtually anywhere else on the continent, nights can still get chilly and you are more likely to have some rainy days.

However, if you plan to visit Andalucía in the summer months, you can expect some of the hottest temperatures in Europe, with some towns repeatedly being subjected to temperatures over 40°C (104°F).

While many hotels, apartments, and tourist sites are air-conditioned and many of the towns are equipped to handle such high temperatures, it can be uncomfortable to visit during the peak summer months.

Arguably the best time to undertake an Andalucía itinerary is in the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November. It is during these months where the weather is at its best — mild yet warm and sunny — and tourist numbers haven’t reached their peak.

How Many Days in Southern Spain?

Now that we’ve determined which time of year is best to go to Spain, we need to figure out how many days you need for your itinerary for southern Spain.

While it might seem that one region of a country wouldn’t require all that much time to explore, you would be quite wrong to assume this of Andalucía.

The region is vast, encompassing multiple major metropolitan areas and various sub-regions and provinces. Each city, town or village that you will visit in Andalucía will have its own unique character that will beg you to explore more.

However, if you don’t have a lifetime just to devote to exploring one region of one country (like everyone else), plan to set aside at least ten days for your trip.

In ten days, you can see a lot of the region without being too rushed and really get a feel for the culture and history. While you likely won’t have time to visit every city and town of interest in Andalucía, 10 days is enough to give you a very good feel for the region.

If you have a bit longer to spend, then the absolute ideal amount of time to spend in Andalucía would be about 2 weeks. This will allow you to visit all of the major metropolitan areas of the city and get a little bit off the beaten path.

Getting To & Around Andalucía

Spain is home to a number of different international airports and there are lots of options when it comes to your itinerary.

The largest airport in Andalucía is located in Málaga and there are countless connections across Europe and further afield here. Flying into Málaga is a good option for those following the Costa del Sol route below.

There are also airports in Seville and Granada, though they are less trafficked. You can find connections across Europe – particularly into Seville – however, you may find it easier to fly into Madrid and then take the fast train to Seville, depending on where you’re coming from.

Once in Spain, it is also necessary to figure out how to get from one destination to another as you explore the region.

While many people like to hire a car and head out on a Southern Spain road trip itinerary, having your own rental car isn’t entirely necessary. The stops on this route are all easily accessible by bus or train (though booking trains and buses in advance is a good idea!) and each city itself is quite walkable.

If planning on taking a number of trains, a train pass can be incredibly good value. If you’re from outside of Europe, you can view Eurail Spain Passes here . Alternatively, if you’re from the EU, you can view Interrail Spain Passes here.

Where you might find a car more helpful during this Andalusian route is if you want to go on some more off-beat day trips that don’t have frequent or easy connections via public transport.

If you’re thinking of renting a car in Spain, we recommend using Rentalcars.com to find the best rates. It can also be worth taking out a third-party insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance to avoid paying higher fees through the rental car agency.

10-Day Southern Spain Itinerary

Day 1 – seville.

The capital of Andalucía, no itinerary would be complete without a stop in the dynamic and historic city of Seville. One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, Seville has a ton to offer tourists and it is one of the best cities to get to know the unique culture and history of Andalucía.

Seville is the fourth-largest city in Spain and therefore is an easy starting point for a route through southern Spain as it is well connected both because if its international airport and frequent buses and trains from all major Spanish cities.

Due to its size and historical significance, there are also a lot of things to do in Seville that you can easily spend 3 or more full days exploring the city. Plan to spend a couple of days in the city itself, checking out all of the incredible sites.

On your first day, plan to get your bearings – a great way to do this is by going on a free walking tour! Of course, you cannot miss the incredible Seville Cathedral , which takes some time to explore.

Make sure to wander through the gorgeous streets or take a walking tour of Barrio Santa Crus, which was the former Jewish Quarter of Seville. And, finally, end your day by taking in the sunset from the Metropol Parasol – known locally as “Las Setas.”

No visit to Seville is complete without hopping around a few tapas bars and this is an excellent thing to do your first evening in Andalucía!

Where to Stay in Seville

Hotel Bécquer  – This centrally located hotel is a great choice if you’re travelling on a mid-range budget but want to be close to all of the action. They have numerous clean, comfortable rooms available and they also have a wonderful rooftop pool and terrace to take the edge off of those warm Seville days.

Monte Triana  – Located in the vibrant Triana neighbourhood, this swanky boutique hotel is on of the highest-rated in Seville. Located within a 15-minute walk of all of the top sights of the city and close to some of the best tapas bars in Seville, they have a number of luxurious rooms available.

Onefam Catedral  – If you’re travelling solo or have a tight Spain travel budget , this hostel is an excellent choice. It is one of Seville’s highest-rated hostels and it is located within easy walking distance of sites like the Cathedral and the Alcázar. They have a range of dorms and private rooms available and the staff organises social events and activities.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse for more hotels in Seville!

Day 2 – Seville

On your second day in the capital of Andalucía, take the time to dig a bit deeper and enjoy some more of the incredible sites that Seville has to offer.

Start your day by exploring the Mercado de Triana on the other side of the Guadalquivir River – this is a great area to wander through on its own, but the market is something special.

And you absolutely cannot miss the Real Alcázar – this takes a few hours to explore and it is so wonderful and worthwhile. The architecture is absolutely stunning, as are the tranquil gardens to be found here.

You also should ensure to visit the iconic Plaza de España, one of Andalucía’s most beautiful town squares.

And end your day with a visit to a flamenco show – Seville is one of the birthplaces of this artform and there are plenty of tablaos where you can experience it!

Day 3 – Ronda

After spending two full days in Seville itself, now it’s time to head out on a day trip. One of the most popular options is to visit Ronda , a beautiful whitewashed village in the hills of Andalucía.

You can reach Ronda via bus (which is the easiest route if going by public transport), via car in about 2 hours or join an organised day trip.

Ronda is known for the incredible Puente Nuevo, a gorgeous and impressive bridge that cascades over the river gorges it sits above. But there is more to this town than the bridge. You can also tour the bullfighting ring, see beautiful churches like the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor or even visit the old Arab Baths.

Ronda also has plenty of great bars to have a bite to eat in that serve up traditional cuisine from this area. In general, it’s a great day trip option.

Day 4 – Cádiz or Jerez de la Frontera

On your fourth day in Seville, it’s another great opportunity to head out and explore a nearby town. One of my favourites would be the gorgeous coastal city of Cádiz , which is located only about 1.5 hours by train from Seville.

Here, you can visit the beautiful Cádiz Cathedral and experience the find Camera Obscura at the Torre Tavira. There are also some cool, historic castles to take in, like the Castillo de San Sebastian. Cádiz also has its own unique cuisine with some incredible eateries, so this can be a great opportunity to head out on a food tour.

Alternatively, you could also visit the city of Jerez. This is located just a bit north of Cádiz and about 1 hour on the train from Seville.

Jerez is known as the cradle of sherry and is a fantastic place to visit for fans of this fortified wine. When you visit Jerez, make sure to pop into a bodega or two to learn about (and taste) all varieties of Spanish sherry – from fino to amontillado to oloroso. Of course, there are also incredible places to eat in Jerez, so it’s a great place for foodies!

Day 5 – Córdoba

After spending your first four days of this itinerary in Seville, it’s time to head to another historic city in Andalucía: Córdoba.

While many visitors to the south of Spain tend to only treat Córdoba as a day trip from Seville , the city is much better experienced in the two days I have allotted in this route through Andalucía.

Córdoba is located only about 45 minutes by train from Seville, so you can enjoy a relaxed morning without feeling the need to be rushed and get moving.

Once you arrive in Córdoba, spend your first day getting your bearings in the city and wandering through the incredible and beautifully preserved old Jewish Quarter. Of course, if it interests you, you could opt to go on a walking tour (free or paid) to get more historical context here.

At one point, Córdoba was considered to be the most important city in Western Europe and it was the head of one of the most advanced civilizations of its time during the Moorish rule of Spain.

Therefore, there are centuries, if not millennia, worth of history to explore in Córdoba and though it’s historical centre might be small, it is much better enjoyed at a slower pace.

It’s also a great idea to visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos in Córdoba. Though not as impressive as the one in Seville, it’s still worth taking in and seeing more of the Moorish architecture and learning about the history here.

Where to Stay in Córdoba

Hesperia Córdoba – This comfortable boutique hotel, located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, is a great place to stay if you are travelling on a mid-range budget. They have a range of modern, clean and comfortable rooms and also include a rooftop pool to take the edge off of a hot Córdoba day.

Puerta de la Luna – This small hostel is a fantastic option for solo and budget travellers alike. They have great common areas, a range of both dorm and private rooms, and even have a rooftop terrace to chill out on.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Cordoba!

Day 6 – Córdoba

Córdoba is perhaps most famous for its marvellous Mezquita-Catedral, a massive Moorish mosque-turned-cathedral in the centre of town. The monument is one of the most-visited in Andalucía and is a shining example of the Mudéjar architecture so common throughout this region and country as a whole

The Mezquita is certainly a can’t-miss sight in Córdoba, but it does get very busy which is why I recommend trying to get there as early as possible. That is why it’s ideal to visit the Mezquita on your first full day in Córdoba, rather than the day before when you first arrive.

After taking in the Mezquita, take the time to get lost in the gorgeous streets of Córdoba, visit the Mercado de la Corredera which is located below the plaza of the same name, and enjoy the city’s laid-back tapas culture.

This is also an excellent opportunity to take advantage of some regional cuisine that hails from Córdoba – particularly salmorejo , a cold tomato soup that is similar to gazpacho.

Day 7 – Granada

The penultimate stop on this itinerary is the incredible city of Granada , one of the best places to visit in all of Spain.

Tucked high in the Sierra Nevada, in 1492, Granada was the last city to fall to the Catholic monarchs during the Reconquista. Because of this, Granada’s Islamic roots and history seem somehow more pronounced than in other Spanish cities or cities in Andalucía altogether.

Much like Córdoba, Granada is perhaps most famous for its iconic monument: the Alhambra. The fantastic Moorish palace, summer house, and fortress is a sight to be seen and is one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

From Córdoba, it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Granada depending on the route you choose. So you don’t feel too rushed, spend your first day in the city getting the feel for everything and exploring the Albaicín and the historical centre of the city.

Start off in the central area of Granada, first visiting the gorgeous Granada Cathedral and the nearby Monasterio de San Jerónimo. Then, make your way up the hill to the UNESCO-listed Albaicín.

Getting lost in the incredible Albaicín neighbourhood, which was once the city’s Arab quarter, is one of the highlights of visiting Granada. There is something beautiful to explore around every corner. And, if you want an excellent place to see the sunset, head to the Mirador de San Nicolas – it’s popular for a reason!

Spend your evening bouncing between some of Granada’s bars – here you can get a free tapa with a drink order and it’s one of the best experiences to have while in the city!

Where to Stay in Granada

Hotel Rosa D’oro – A stunning converted convent, this hotel offers a range of rooms with the fancier ones even having views of the Alhambra.

Hotel Los Tilos – A mid-range hotel that has both double rooms and larger rooms suitable for families. Its within walking distance of the city’s main sights and there is a great rooftop terrace for guests to enjoy.

El Granado Hostel – A great hostel with various dorm rooms and one private room available. They organise a lot of social events so its a great place to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Granada hotels!

Day 8 – Granada

On your second day in Granada, it’s time to visit the main attraction – the Alhambra. The Alhambra complex is massive and it will take the better part of half a day to do the area justice, so make sure that you’re aware of that.

It’s also essential to book your visit to the Alhambra well in advance, as it can be booked out early and you may not be able to see some of the areas you wanted without having to join a guided tour.

After visiting the Alhambra, head to one of Granada’s more unique areas – Sacromonte. This traditional Roma neighbourhood is made up of cave dwellings, and it’s a place where some people living alternative lifestyles still live today.

If you want a truly spectacular view, then hike up to the San Miguel Alto Viewpoint, which is a bit of a trek but well worth it.

End your time in Granada by bouncing around various tapas bars again – it really never gets old!

Day 9 – Málaga

The final stop on this Southern Spain itinerary is in the lively coastal city of Málaga . Málaga is a wonderful city to visit and it is a great place to relax by the coast while still taking in some history.

It’s also located only about an hour from Granada and, as home to a high-traffic international airport, a logical place to end this itinerary.

Spend your first day wandering around and getting to know the city. It has a lively, metropolitan vibe that is definitely different from the cities you’ve visited previously.

Make sure to visit the gorgeous Alcazaba which towers over the city and, also, wander around the Roman Theatre that is located directly below.

Of course, you must visit the Picasso Museum while here. This was the birthplace of the famous artist and it’s worth taking in some of the incredible works while visiting the city.

Where to Stay in Málaga

Hotel Sur Málaga – This centrally-located hotel is a wonderful place to stay in Málaga, situated within easy walking distance to all of the best museums and attractions. They have a range of air-conditioned, clean, and comfortable, rooms available and it is the ideal place for couples. There is also breakfast available for an additional charge.

Madeinterranea Suites – This is a great hotel if you’re after a little bit of luxury on your trip to Málaga. There are numerous spacious and comfortable rooms available, a restaurant on site (complete with room service!), and a fantastic breakfast included in the room rate. They also can organise an airport shuttle.

The Lights Hostel – This hostel is one of the highest-rated and a great option for solo travellers or if you’re on a budget in Malaga . They have a range of dorm and private rooms available and a hearty breakfast available at an additional cost. They also organise social events in the evenings.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Málaga!

Day 10 – Málaga

Spend your final day exploring more of beautiful Málaga. Begin your day at the massive Mercado de Atarazanas where you can take in a lot of delicious local produce. Then, make your way to the Museo del Vino which, if you don’t understand Spanish, means the Museum of Wine!

You can also take some time to lounge at Playa de Malagueta, the main beach in the city. Or, if you want to explore a cool, hip area with lots of street art, then make sure to wander around the lovely Soho neighbourhood.

Have More Time?

If you have more time in the area, then you can continue exploring past Málaga and visit more of the Costa del Sol. There is a lot more to this area than just Malaga or Marbella and it’s worth taking the time to visit some of the smaller coastal towns.

The town of Estepona is just lovely, as is the nearby beachy city of Marbella . Both are worth visiting if you’re on the Costa del Sol.

Of course, it’s also very popular to go on a day trip to Gibraltar , the British Overseas Territory is easily reached from Málaga and it’s a unique experience to visit!

No matter where you choose to visit on your southern Spain itinerary, you are sure to leave with fond memories of an enriching and historical experience.

Are you planning a trip to Andalucía? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Madrid Itinerary

How to Spend 1 or 2 Days in Santiago de Compostela

The Perfect 7-Day Catalonia Road Trip Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

is easy to put together a side trip to Morocco while in the south of Spain ?

Yes, it’s very common for travellers to add on a visit to Morocco when in the far south of Spain 🙂

Hi Maggie This is a great post. I’m planning a trip to this region and would like to visit Seville, Cordoba and Cadiz. I would be flying into and out of Malaga but don’t want to stay as I’ve seen it and Granada on a previous trip. I’m wondering would it be best to get a train or bus from Malaga to Seville and use it as a base to take trips to Cordoba and Cadiz or go from Malaga to Cordoba – Seville- Cadiz- Malaga? Thanks

Seville makes for a good base for exploring both Córdoba and Cádiz but all three cities have enough to do to keep you occupied for more than a day each. So it really depends on how much time you have and if you want to move accommodations a few times during your trip or not. 🙂

This is a wonderful resource and I’m so glad I found it!

I’m in the very early stages of planning a 10 day trip (Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada) with my parents in 2023. I’m thinking a September trip might be a great idea before the end-of-year holiday travel begins.

How early do you think we should start booking travel/lodging? And it’s probably too hard to guess with the ever-changing COVID precautions.

Hi Camille, thanks so much for your comment! I would personally wait until your trip is only a few months out before booking – but hopefully, things are a bit more clear when it comes to planning travel in the future.

We are planning 4.5 weeks in Spain & Portugal next May 2020-flying into Barcelona (but not staying there this timeas we were there last year) and then out of Madrid. We will be hiring a car and our rough plan is to head up the Costa Brava from BCN, then across to San Sebastian (not much time to expolre the Pyrenees unless we cut out other areas?) and along the northern coast (inland or mountains – or a mix?) to Santiago de Compostela, then down through Portugal via Porto, Coimbra to Lisbon and then Algarve region to Andalucia then back up towards Madrid, seeing Toledo, Salamanca and some rural spots inbetween. I know we’ll be moving fairly quickly but we just spent weeks in the balkans with a car and found if we had some 3 night breaks in more popular stops, we were happy with some overnights in between. Would you say this is do-able in the time and any unmissable places to stay a few days on the way, or pass through to check out main sights? I like your destination info and presentation and used it for our Balkans trip too so any feedback would be much appreciated.l I then have a week extra so am thinking I’ll get a Spanish rail pass and base myself in Madrid to do trips out from there or maybe return to an area for 4-5 days R&R after all the driving! Cheers & Merry Xmas ?

Thanks for your comment, Lyndie! Sounds like you’ve got quite a busy trip planned but if you’re hiring a car, I don’t see why it shouldn’t be doable. Unfortunately, we haven’t travelled as much in Catalonia or Northern Spain (yet!) so I can’t be of much help in that regard. Hope you have a great time, though!

Thanks for all your interesting information! It has been useful in the beginning stages of my planning to see how long to stay in each town.

Glad it’s helped, Claudia! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

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Southern Spain Itinerary – 7 Day Road Trip Through Andalusia

Southern Spain has, without a doubt, some of the most beautiful and culturally iconic cities in the world! Just the word Andalusia, or Andalucía (in Spanish) sounds majestically romantic. It’s filled with the fragrance of crisp orange blossoms in the air, the jazz of the footloose and fancy-free flamenco dancers. Enjoying life plays a large role in the Spanish culture, where most refer to it as Mañana Mañana .

What is the best way to see Spain in just one week? Take a road trip and explore the strikingly beautiful Spanish countryside and coastline. Seven days is hardly enough in this glorious country, but one can try! Spain offers some remarkable experiences . Explore cultural highlights, and historic buildings, and bask in the sun for a few days on the pristine beaches.

Click here to check prices and book car rental in Europe

Plan an Andalucia itinerary and get amped for a beautiful week in Spain!

Take a Road Trip for 1 Week around Southern Spain

The best way to experience Southern Spain is to hire a car and take a road trip. Traveling by car allows you to see more sights and adds flexibility to your travels.

One of the most logical starting points would be Malaga. Fly into Malaga’s Pablo Picasso Airport, and head off from there.

Malaga is a great place to start your exciting journey around Spain! Finding the best places to visit in southern Spain can be daunting. Spain comprises of three top cities in the Andalusian region: Granada, Cordoba, and Seville, and some famous towns along the way.

Get ready to uncover Spain’s diverse landscape, travel along the Mediterranean coastline, and view a slither of Spain’s mountain chain.

The One Week Itinerary in Southern Spain

• Day 1-2: Costa del Sol (Beaches)
• Day 3: Ronda (White Village Town)
• Day 4-5 : Seville (Game of Thrones and Star Wars Location, and Cathedral)
• Day 6 : Granada (Nerje)
• Day 7 : Granada (The Alhambra and Palaces)

Your 7 Day Andalusia Spain Itinerary

Here is an action packed seven day trip around the best cities in Spain. Be prepared to soak in the Southern sun’s magical scenery and some of Spain’s historic places.

Day One and Two: Costa del Sol Beaches

Costa del Sol is a destination for all beach lovers, with more than 325 days a year of pure, joyous sunshine. This coastal area is perfect for your ultimate beach vacation. Starting from Malaga, you will pass various beaches. Below are some fabulous beaches to bronze your body and quench your soul.

Beaches and things to do around Costa del Sol

• Fuengirola beach is a famous beach for young party-goers and the active crowd
• Marbella beach is known to be a more high-end deluxe beach offering golden sand and turquoise water. Try out their stand-up paddleboard at sunset
• Torremolinos beach is a great place to bring your family and enjoy some hot sunny days
• Benalmadena beach takes the winning bet! Getting your toes sandy on this beach is a must. It is a lot less known, and it will make you feel as if you are on your own Caribbean Island
• On the way to Granada, stopover at Nerje (Maro Beach) , it has gem-clear water and glistening sands. An absolute beauty to see. Walk down to Balcón de Europa, Nerja’s seafront promenade, and enjoy the salty Seabreeze

Day Three: Ronda

From Costa del Sol, you will find the quaint, whitewashed village named Ronda, or better known as “Pueblos Bancos” (white hill town). Ronda is dramatically perched at the very top of a cliffside, built above El Tajo gorge.

This delightful town offers cobbled streets and tapas bars. It’s one of the most unique places in the whole of Andalusia. It’s home to Spain’s oldest bullring , where bullfights still occur in the first week of September.

Things To Do in Ronda

• The Old Town in Ronda is a picturesque part of Ronda and is a great attraction to this little town
• Book a Small-group walking tour to see and get the most out of Ronda
• See the valley views from the Plaza de María Auxiladora
• The Puente Nuevo (new bridge) is more than 255 years old and is 100 meters high. It’s a must-see

Day Four and Five: Seville

Seville is one of the most romantic fairytale-like cities you’ll get to explore around the South of Spain. Seville requires more than just a day to discover its hidden gems.

It’s known to get as hot as hades in the summertime. So visit in winter, or pack a load of sunscreen and a hat you’re happy to wear all day.

The city is made up of quaint, picturesque little streets such as the old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz. Visit the Alcázar, a magnificent palace listed on UNESCO that is still being used by the Spanish royal family today.

Other historical monuments include the largest Gothic cathedral in the world or see the mighty bullring arena. This soulful, flamenco-flavored city is most definitely an insta-worthy city to sightsee!

Things To Do in Seville

• Plaza De España (Star Wars film location), it has colossal buildings offering mini-canals and bridges, and entrance is free
• Seville Cathedral and Giralda are amazing too see. It’s a part of the UNESCO world heritage site. The world’s largest Gothic cathedral, it took over 100 years to complete
• The Alcazar (meaning castle in Arabic) is also a UNESCO site and is famous for being one of the Games of Thrones film locations. The gardens are magical, and the interior is comprised of ceramic tiles and gold ceilings, they are exquisite! Alcázar Guided Tour with Priority Entrance is a great way to experience this magnificent place
• The Plaza de Toros de La Maestranza – Bullring , is an impressive part of history and is spectacular to see where 14, 000 spectators once sat
• The Santa Cruz neighborhood is another favorite amongst travel goers. It offers narrow cobbled streets and brightly colored houses – a perfect place to enjoy tapas and try some delicious wine. Its also home to the famous Romeo & Juliet balcony

Day Six and Seven: Granada and Alhambra

Granada is one of the most charming Spanish cities and is a favorite for most, situated between the abundant Darro valley. Like Seville, it’s a place you would want to spend more than just a day exploring and would definitely be a perfect place to end a great trip.

Taking a walk down the charismatic Carrera del Darro or old Arabic quarter of Albaicin would be a good start. Granada offers a variety of things to see and do.

The historic city is situated in the mountains, offering phenomenal views and is home to the world-famous Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Alhambra is a colossal palace complex and was once home to royalty. Its main attraction is its palaces, fountains, courtyards, and vast greenery of lush gardens. Photographers or social media lover’s dream!

What to do in Granada

• Visit Alhambra and the Nasrid Places, a fantastic experience with beautiful architecture. Book your Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces ticket with an audio guide or a three hour guided tour . When visiting Granada, you will most definitely want to see the Alhambra
• Visit the Granada Cathedral , built in 1523, and part of the Renaissance cathedral in Spain. Granada Cathedral and Madrasah guided walking tour s are magnificent for history lovers
• Stop at Albayzin , Spain’s old Moorish quarter, or shop at the Alcaiceria (Mercad) for some souvenirs
• See the San Nicolas Viewpoint overlooking the Alhambra and the Albayzin. It’s best to go at sunset
• You should take a beautiful scenic walk through Carrera del Darro

Start your Southern Spain Trip

Andalusia, Southern Spain region, offers a vast range of adventurous sites and activities for anyone looking for a spectacular and memorable experience.

Whether you’re the fiesta loving dancer, the colorful tapas foodie, the sun-dappled water baby, the insta-lovers, or a laid-back traveler. Anyone looking to immerse themselves in the epitome of Spanish culture, the South of Spain offers all!

Although one week in Spain is merely enough, this itinerary is there to give you the best cities and places to see for your Southern Spain vacation itinerary.

Marbella in October: Activities & Marbella’s Temperature

Malaga in February: Weather & Things to Do

Where to Stay in Marbella: Best Areas and Hotels

2 Days in Granada Itinerary | A Guide to the Moorish Jewel

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Andalusia Road Trip: The Best 1-Week Southern Spain Itinerary

An Andalusia road trip (or Andalucia as it’s written in Spanish) is a must-have experience in Spain . I was ecstatic just planning it (well, trip planning always gets me excited), and this region was worth it and did not disappoint.

With such a rich Jewish, Christian, and Muslim history, incredibly beautiful places to see (including cities, villages, and nature), and an enticing atmosphere, it is one of the most interesting and captivating destinations I’ve visited.

Although 7 days in Andalucia are not enough to see everything this region has to offer, you can still experience some of its highlights.

To help you make the most of one of the best road trips in Europe , here is my full 7-day southern Spain road trip itinerary (that you need to steal right now!).

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

ANDALUSIA ROAD TRIP ITINERARY – SUMMARY & HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary summary and map.

If you’re wondering how many days you need in Andalucia, know that I could have easily spent a month (or more) in this region.

10-14 days here will be great, but if you only have a week, here’s how you can make the most of it:

Day 1 : Granada (suggested hotel: Casa de Reyes or Smart Suites Albaicin in Granada).

Day 2: Granada (suggested hotel: Cordoba Carpe Diem or Apartamentos Casa del Aceite in Cordoba).

Day 3: Cordoba (suggested hotel: Adriano Boutique or Hotel Fernando III in Seville).

Day 4 : Seville (suggested hotel: Adriano Boutique or Hotel Fernando III in Seville).

Day 5: Seville (suggested hotel: Las Cortes de Cadiz or Casa Palacio Cádiz in Cadiz).

Day 6: Cadiz, Zahara de la Sierra (suggested hotel: Hotel Berlanga or Hotel Colon in Ronda).

Day 7: Ronda, Marbella (suggested hotel: Marbella Inn in Marbella).

Click here to see the MyMaps maps of this route.

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

If you want to extend or change this 7-day Andalucia road trip itinerary, you can add 1- 2 days in Malaga , visit many more white-washed villages ( pueblos blancos ), unwind at some beach towns, take a day trip to Gibraltar from Malaga or Seville, visit some national parks, and the list goes on.

Itinerary Highlights – Top Must-Visit Landmarks

You can dive right into this massive itinerary, but if you’re just looking for the highlights, here are a few must-visit attractions that you should book in advance :

Set against the Sierra Nevada mountains, this complex of Moorish palaces and gardens is Granada’s biggest landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I 100% recommend purchasing your ticket in advance as daily visits are limited, whether you want to reserve your spot and visit it on your own or book a guided tour .

Cordoba’s Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral)

This is one of Andalusia’s most recognizable medieval landmarks, thanks to its striped arches. Get your ticket here or book a guided tour.

Seville’s Cathedral, Giralda (Bell Tower), and Alcazar (Palace)

Want to visit the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the oldest royal palace in Europe that is still in use? Don’t miss these 3 must-see UNESCO sites in southern Spain!

Book a combined guided tour of all three of them or purchase your Alcazar ticket and Cathedral & Giralda ticket to visit them on your own.

Southern Spain Itinerary – Days 1 and 2 – Granada

Granada is an incredible starting point for 1 week in Andalucia. I was inspired to visit it after reading the amazing novel – ‘The Return’ by Victoria Hislop.

The city’s most iconic attraction may be the Alhambra palace complex, but there are plenty of things to do in Granada .

You can feel the Moorish and Christian influence in every corner and aspect, which is exactly what makes Granada so fascinating.

Where to Stay in Granada

We stayed at Hotel Los Jeronimos which had a great location in Granada’s old town and a private parking lot 100 meters (0.06 miles) away.

However, the overall stay was just okay – nothing especially good or bad. So I suggest finding higher-rated accommodation such as:

Casa de Reyes : Offering uniquely decorated standard, superior, and deluxe double rooms, this hotel is centrally located near Granada’s Cathedral. Browse its latest prices here.

Smart Suites Albaicin : Located in the Moorish quarter of Albaicin, this aparthotel offers spacious, modern apartments for up to 7 people, as well as private parking and an open-air restaurant. Check out its latest prices here.

You can browse all the accommodation options in Granada here.

What to Do in Granada

If you want to explore Granada with a guide, take this free walking tour .

1. Alhambra

Let’s start with the obvious because this landmark is Granada’s crowning glory.

Depending on what time you’re getting to the city, I recommend dedicating the second day’s morning to visiting it. So what exactly is the Alhambra?

It’s a stunning complex of Moorish palaces and gardens from the 9th, 13th, and 14th centuries that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Its captivating history and intricate Arab architecture are what make it one of Spain’s most visited attractions.

On Your Visit, You Can Access Three Areas:

Alcazaba: A military fortress and one of Alhambra’s oldest buildings.

Nasrid Palaces: A complex of three palaces that was the residence of the kings of Granada.

Generalife: A palace and gardens that served as a recreational area.

The Types of Tickets You Can Purchase:

General (recommended): Gives you access to all 3 areas – purchase it here or book a guided tour .

Gardens, Generalife, and Alcazaba: Gives you access to all areas of the complex open to the public, except the Nasrid Palaces – purchase it here or book a guided tour .

A night visit : Browse all night tours here .

Alhambra Experiences : Combines a daytime visit to the Generalife and Alcazaba and a night visit to the Nasrid Palaces.

An Important Tip:

Since the number of visitors is limited to 6000 per day and you need to pick a specific timeslot if you’re not visiting with a guide, I recommend booking your tickets in advance online as soon as you can .

For a slightly less crowded visit, I also recommend booking a morning ticket or tour in the middle of the week.

How to Purchase Your Tickets – Option 1 – Book a Guided Tour:

The first option is to take a guided tour as I did (this is the full tour with the Nasrid Palaces).

It’s about 3 hours long which sounds like a lot, but the complex is so huge that I wish I had a bit more time to wander around freely.

That said, I did enjoy learning about this place from my amazing guide and I truly recommend visiting the Alhambra with a guide.

Read more reviews and purchase your Alhambra guided-tour tickets here.

How to Purchase Your Tickets – Option 2 – An Independent Visit:

If you want to tour the complex on your own , purchase your entry tickets in advance .

You can also buy them at the ticket office at the main entrance or the ticket machines in the city, but I highly recommend an online purchase.

Note that you need to pick a specific time slot for your ticket. That is the time when you need to access the Nasrid Palaces . You can access the other areas with no time limitations.

How to Purchase Your Tickets Option 3 – Granada City Card:

You can also purchase one of several types of Granada City Card. It already includes a visit to the Alhambra (without a guide) as well as other landmarks in the city, so it can be a big money saver.

When purchasing your city card, you’ll also have to pick a time slot to visit the Alhambra. Check what the Granada Card includes, and purchase it here.

2. San Jeronimo Monastery

This stunning Renaissance monastery was founded by the Spanish monarchs during the reconquest of Granada from the Moors.

Even though I don’t have any religious connection to churches and monasteries, I can’t ignore historical buildings with such unique architecture.

Address:  Rector López Argueta, 9.

Cost: 4 euros.

3. Granada’s Cathedral and Royal Chapel

Dating back to the 16th century, both the Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel are must-see sights in the city.

The Royal Chapel is actually the burial place of the Catholic monarchs who asked to be buried there specifically. Apart from its historical importance, its Gothic-style architecture is also extremely beautiful.

Address:  Gran Via de Colon 5.

Cost: 5 euros including an audio guide.

Want to learn more about the Cathedral and Royal Chapel? Book this guided tour .

4. Carrera Del Daro and Paseo de Los Tristes

There’s nothing I love more than charming cobbled streets, so it’s clear why I was won over by Carrera del Daro, one of Granada’s oldest and most scenic streets.

It passes alongside the Daro River and some of Granada’s oldest bridges and buildings.

It’s also connected to Paseo de los Tristes, another picturesque street in the city that offers incredible views of the Alhambra.

For pure magic, I highly recommend walking alongside Paseo de los Tristes at night to witness the Alhambra when it’s illuminated.

5. Alcaiceria Bazaar

This is the place to experience some of Granada’s Arab history and do some shopping. It used to be a significantly bigger bazaar where people could buy things like spices and silk.

Nowadays, it’s mostly home to souvenir stalls selling items like clothing, ceramics, lamps, and other knickknacks.

Address:  Alcaiceria, 1.

6. Albayzin and Sacromonte

For me, a huge part of traveling to a city is exploring its different neighborhoods. And if you really want to experience Granada, you have to take some time to wander both Albayzin and Sacromonte.

While Albayzin is the old Arab Quarter where you’ll mostly find narrow streets and mosques, Sacromonte is known for its gypsy caves and diverse ethnic history.

Didn’t I tell you Granada was fascinating?

Want to explore these neighborhoods with a guide? Book this guided walking tour !

You can also book this flamenco show in Sacromonte’s caves .

7. Highly-Rated Tours in Granada

I love themed tours that uncover a different side of the city, and here are a few highly-rated tours you can take in Granada:

• FREE walking tour of Granada
• Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus ticket

After 2 fantastic days in Granada, we were headed to our hotel in Cordoba .

Southern Spain Itinerary – Day 3 – Cordoba

I have to say that the must-visit Cordoba was one of my top favorite places on this Andalusia travel itinerary.

It’s another city with both Moorish and Christian history, but the highlight for me was exploring its Jewish history. Cordoba was home to a large, thriving Jewish community, and it was incredible to see its preserved heritage.

Where to Stay in Cordoba

My hotel is not available to book at the moment, so check out these highly-rated places instead:

Cordoba Carpe Diem : Offering a central location, private parking, and rooms for up to four people, this hotel gets a score of 9+ in every category, from cleanliness to value for money. Browse its latest prices here.

Apartamentos Casa del Aceite : Housed in an 18th-century building and centrally located in the old town, this hotel offers modern apartments for up to 4 people (some overlook a beautiful patio), nearby parking, and access to a shared roof terrace. See its latest prices here.

Alternatively, browse all the accommodation options in Cordoba here.

What to Do in Cordoba

Since we only had one day, we decided to pass on visiting three main sights – Alcazar of Cordoba , Viana Palace , and Medina Azahara – and focus more on Cordoba’s Jewish landmarks.

To explore this city with a guide, take a free walking tour .

1. Almodovar Gate

This is the only city gate (out of nine) from Moorish times that has survived.

It has gone through several changes and restorations over the years, and today it’s an access point to Cordoba’s gorgeous old Jewish Quarter.

2. Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba)

Showcasing spectacular Islamic architecture, the Mezquita is such a unique building to see.

The iconic red and white striped arches spread all over its interior are what make it such a memorable sight and a Spanish landmark you don’t want to miss.

It’s also impossible to overlook the mosque’s beautiful courtyard, Patio de los Naranjos.

Address:  Cardenal Herrero, 1.

Get your ticket in advance to reserve your spot or book a tour to visit the Mezquita with a guide !

3. Mercado Victoria

Although it isn’t big, this gourmet food market is a really nice spot to grab a bite in Cordoba. It includes about 20 different food stalls and more than 5 terraces.

Address:  Paseo de la Victoria, 3.

4. Jewish Quarter

Cordoba’s Jewish Quarter is charmingly irresistible – Andalucian white houses flavored with pops of color, cobble-stone streets, colorful flower pots, and an authentic atmosphere.

Take some time and just stroll around the quarter. While sightseeing is nice, the real magic happens when you lose yourself in a maze of beautiful streets and alleyways.

To explore the quarter with a guide, you can take a combined Jewish quarter and Mezquita tour .

5. Calleja de Las Flores

Calleja de las Flores or ‘Alley of the Flowers’ is a picturesque little street in the Jewish Quarter.

Flowers embellish the narrow alley that leads to a small patio, and the patio’s walls and balconies are also decorated with flowers, which makes the whole scenery extra colorful and lively.

Bonus tip: The small patio at the end of Calleja de las Flores is just a taste of what Cordoba’s patios can look like. In May, the festival ‘ Patios de Cordoba ‘ (which is still on my bucket list) takes place. During the festival, the city’s patios come to life, forming giant carpets of flowers and exploding colors all over the city center.

6. Cordoba Synagogue

The 14th-century Synagogue of Cordoba is one of the best-preserved synagogues in Spain and the only one in Cordoba that has survived complete destruction.

Sadly, during my visit to Cordoba, it was under restoration, so this one is still on my bucket list.

Fun fact: Oddly enough, some of the building’s decorations were influenced by the Mudéjar architectural style which is a cultural mix of Muslim and Christian architecture.

Address: Judios, 20.

Check out this combined tour of the Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, and Synagogue !

7. Casa de Sefarad

In reference to the Jewish diaspora, Sephardic Jews are a Jewish population that lived in the Iberian Peninsula, as opposed to Ashkenazi Jews that lived in eastern and central Europe (I’m half Sephardic and half Ashkenazi).

‘Casa de Sefarad’ is a great place to learn about Sephardic culture and history (yes, even if you’re Jewish like me).

It’s a beautifully designed museum and cultural center located in an old Jewish house in the heart of Cordoba’s Jewish Quarter.

At ‘Casa de Sefarad’ you can explore the different aspects of Sephardic heritage like domestic life, holidays, and music.

Address:  On the corner of Judios Street and Averroes Street.

8. Rub Maimonides Foot at Plaza de Tiberiades

If you visit ‘Casa de Sefarad,’ you’ll see an exhibition room dedicated to Maimonides.

Maimonides or Moses ben Maimon was a Cordoban philosopher, physician, and rabbi in the Middle Ages. He is also one of the most important and influential people in the history of Judaism.

Head over to Plaza de Tiberiades or Square of Tiberias, and you’ll find a bronze statue of his.

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Cordoba, try this quirky tradition of rubbing his foot; a story says that if you rub Maimonides’ foot, some of his wisdom will rub off on you.

Address: Judios street next to Cordoba Synagogue.

9. Highly-Rated Tours in Cordoba

Here are a few other highly-rated tours you can take in Cordoba:

• Free tour of Cordoba
• Wine-tasting evening tour
• Flower courtyards tour

If you want to change this itinerary a bit, you can also spend 2 days in Cordoba .

We continued our journey and got to our hotel in Seville for 2 nights (you can spend one day in Seville , but I highly suggest dedicating at least two).

Southern Spain Itinerary – Days 4 and 5 – Seville

Have you ever fallen in love with a place even before visiting it? That’s what happened to me with Seville, one of the best cities in Andalucia.

Combining the traditional and the modern so well together, it’s a must-see city that you can also visit as a European weekend getaway.

Where to Stay in Seville

The hotel where we stayed is no longer working. Here are a few highly-rated options to consider instead:

Adriano Boutique : Housed in an 18th-century building, this boutique hotel offers beautiful double rooms, private parking, and a central location near Seville’s cathedral. Read reviews and browse the latest prices.

Hotel Fernando III : This modern 4-star hotel offers double and triple rooms as well as suite-style apartments for 4-6 people, private parking, a highly rated optional breakfast, a great location in Seville’s old town, and much more. Check the latest prices and availability here.

You can also browse other accommodation options in Seville here.

What to Do in Seville

There’s A LOT to see and experience in Seville, so unfortunately I had to skip out on visiting some landmarks.

These include the Roman ruins of Italica , the 15th-century Palacio de las Dueñas and Casa de Pilatos (two famous palaces in the city), and the Seville Museum of Fine Arts.

To explore this city with a guide, take one (or more) of these free walking tours of Seville .

1. Seville Cathedral and the Giralda

I was in awe when I first saw Seville’s 15th-century cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Its size and intricate architectural details are so incredibly impressive that you need a moment to take it all in.

You can also visit the Giralda, the cathedral’s bell tower, and enjoy the views over the city. Fun fact about the Giralda – when it was first built in the Middle Ages, it was the tallest tower in the world!

Address:  Avenida de la Constitución.

To skip the lines, get your ticket here or book a guided tour .

2. Real Alcázar de Sevilla

Can you believe that the Alcazar of Seville is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe? I know I wouldn’t mind living in such a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site (that was also a Game of Thrones filming location!).

The jaw-dropping Spanish landmark consists of buildings from different eras, so you can see a mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Mudejar styles. Along with the gardens, this complex is HUGE, so take enough time to explore it.

Pro tip: You can also book a combo guided tour to visit the Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda with a guide.

Address: Patio de Banderas.

Since the alcazar has become a major attraction, be sure to get your ticket in advance or  book a guided tour .

For more information, read this guide to visiting Seville’s Alcazar !

3. Barrio de Triana

Crossing the GuadalquivRiverver, you’ll get to the former gypsy neighborhood.

This neighborhood is not about sightseeing but more about a local vibe, beautiful streets, ceramic shops, tapas bars, and flamenco theatres. You can also take a free walking tour of Triana .

4. Plaza de España

I can promise you that this is one of the most stunning European city squares you’ll ever see in your life. The genius architect who designed it in 1928 mixed several architectural styles to create this mesmerizing complex.

It includes towers, bridges, a fountain, and even a canal (where you can rent a boat and row!). One of my favorite elements about it is the tiled walls that represent Spain’s 48 provinces.

Seriously, this square is so beautiful I almost cried.

5. Maria Luisa Park

Plaza de España is actually located in this park, and you should definitely explore more of it.

Apart from trees and flowers, it’s filled with ponds, fountains, decorated benches, and unique buildings, which means that it’s not just another public park.

6. Barrio Santa Cruz

I was excited to know that in the Middle Ages, this neighborhood was Seville’s Jewish quarter and home to a thriving Jewish community.

Currently, it’s a colorful maze of narrow streets and alleys you have to stroll through. It’s also where both the Cathedral and Alcazar are located, and it’s a great place to grab a bite.

To learn more about it, you can also explore it with a guide .

7. Cruise on the Guadalquivir River

While I don’t think this one is a must, taking a cruise on the river was a nice evening activity. There was something charming about seeing the city illuminated after the sun had set.

We bought the tickets at our hotel which gave us a small discount, but you can also book them in advance online .

8. Flamenco Show – El Palacio Andaluz

Flamenco (AKA one of the most beautiful traditional Spanish dances ) is one of my favorite things about Spanish culture.

The sound of Spanish guitar and rough singing voice, gorgeous outfits, and dance moves filled with emotions soften my heart every time. And since Flamenco was born in Andalucia, watching a live show in Seville is a must-have experience.

El Palacio Andaluz couldn’t have been a more incredible show, and I will forever remember it. You should know that the prices of flamenco shows in Andalucia usually start at 35-40 euros.

Also, notice that the basic ticket includes the show and a drink, and if you also want to have tapas or dinner, the prices are a lot higher.

We purchased the tickets at our hotel, but you can buy them in advance here or check out other flamenco shows in Seville .

Address:  María Auxiliadora, 18A.

9. Metropol Parasol

This multi-functional building is a unique architectural gem that you must visit in Seville. It’s also called ‘Las Setas’ (‘The Mushrooms’) because it looks like it consists of six giant wooden mushrooms.

Inside the building, you’ll find an archaeological museum and a market, but the highlight for me was getting up to the roof terrace and enjoying incredible views of the city.

Address: Plaza de la Encarnación.

Cost:  3 euros to get to the roof terrace.

10. Highly-Rated Tours in Seville

Here are a few other highly-rated tours you can take in Seville:

• Free tour of Seville
• Free tour of the neighborhood of Triana
• Free river b a nks tour
• Triana market tour with tastings
• Tapas crawl

We continued our journey towards our hotel in Cadiz .

Southern Spain Itinerary – Day 6 – Cadiz and Zahara de la Sierra

When I was planning my Andalucia trip itinerary, it came down to choosing between taking a day trip to Gibraltar or visiting Cadiz.

Honestly, I’m so happy I haven’t missed Cadiz . It is the oldest city in Europe and one of the most charming and full-of-life places I’ve ever visited.

Where to Stay in Cadiz

We stayed at Las Cortes de Cadiz . Although the parking lot near it was a bit challenging to find, I loved the hotel’s location, elegant decor, and staff. Check its latest prices and availability here .

Another highly-rated place to stay in Cadiz is the apartment hotel Casa Palacio Cádiz , but you can browse other accommodation options in Cadiz here.

Things to Do in Cadiz

To wander around Cadiz with a guide, take this free walking tour .

1. Go to the Beach

Unlike other coastal cities and towns in Andalucia, Cadiz sits on the Atlantic Ocean and not on the Mediterranean.

It offers a few beaches for you to enjoy, and the most popular ones are La Caleta and La Victoria. I was more interested in exploring the city itself, so I only took a walk along the coastline.

2. Wander the Streets of El Populo Quarter and Admire the Cathedral

It’s not just another labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys. It’s the oldest neighborhood in Europe!

Visit streets and squares like Plaza San Juan de Dios, Plaza de la Catedral, and Calle Meson, but be sure to take your time and explore the entire quarter.

In Plaza de la Catedral, you can also find Cadiz’s cathedral which took 116 years to build. To learn more about Cadiz, book this medieval tour or this free tour .

3. Mercado Central

Wherever I travel, I always love visiting local markets, so Cadiz’s Central Market had to be on my itinerary.

With a buzzing atmosphere and more than 150 stalls selling fresh produce, to me, it was one of the highlights of Cadiz.

Address:  Plaza de la Libertad.

4. Torre Tavira

For 360° views of Cadiz, head to Torre Tavira, a former watchtower and the highest point in the old city.

One of the biggest attractions it houses is the Camera Obscura which is an optical effect that allows you to see Cadiz and its development in the 21st century.

Currently, you need to reserve your spot in advance . You can also take a guided tour of the tower and the cathedral .

Address:  Marqués del Real Tesoro, 10.

5. Castillo de Santa Catalina

What would the oldest city in Europe be without an old fortress?

The star-shaped Castillo de Santa Catalina was built in the 17th century, and today it’s used for cultural events. It’s also free to visit except for when it hosts an event.

Continue your road trip and get to Zahara de la Sierra .

Zahara de la Sierra

No road trip in Andalucia would be complete without visiting some white-washed villages, one of the region’s most dominant symbols.

You can see some of them while you’re on the road, but you have to give a proper visit to at least one or two.

Zahara de la Sierra is a white-washed village with an extremely picturesque setting. Surrounded by a turquoise lake, it sits on top of a rocky hill where you can also see the remains of a Moorish castle.

Honestly, it doesn’t get more magical than that.

Although the village itself is not big, it has a few main sights like Plaza Mayor, the castle and its lookout tower, and a few churches.

We continued our journey towards our hotel in Ronda .

Looking for more European road trip routes? Check out:

• Best road trips in Spain
• A one-week northern Italy road trip
• Northwest Italy road trip itinerary
• Best Italian road trips
• Road trips from Milan
• The best road trip from Lisbon to Porto
• Northern Portugal road trip itinerary
• Best road trips in Portugal
• Must-have stops on a road trip through northern Spain

Southern Spain Itinerary – Day 7 – Ronda and Marbella

Where to stay in ronda.

We stayed at Hotel Berlanga , a humble and cozy hotel that made us feel at home and that I absolutely loved. It also has a nice restaurant and offers private parking (at a relatively reasonable price).

Browse prices and availability here or check out another highly rated hotel with private parking and a great location – Hotel Colon . Alternatively, browse other accommodations in Ronda.

Things to Do in Ronda

With picture-perfect and unique views, Ronda has won my heart. As in most Andalucian villages, towns, and cities, you can spend hours just wandering through its old town streets .

However, it’s home to a few sights that will make your jaw drop, so you have to include it on your Andalucia travel itinerary. Learn more about Ronda with this free tour.

1. Puerta de Almocabar

Dating back to the 13th century (to the Moorish era) and restructured in the 16th century, this medieval gate was one of the main defensive entrances to the walled city of Ronda, consisting of three gates joined by two semicircular towers.

2. Cuenca Gardens

Terraces of gardens with spectacular views of Ronda and El Tajo gorge? Yes, please! Cuenca is actually Ronda’s twin city, and the gardens are dedicated to it.

Address:  Escolleras, 1.

3. Puente Nuevo

This bridge was built in the 18th century to join the two parts of Ronda separated by the El Tajo gorge.

Crossing the bridge, the views of the gorge and the white houses sitting on the edge of the cliff will take your breath away.

If you feel like doing something a bit more active, you can also walk down into the El Tajo gorge itself.

We continued our journey and got to  Marbella for the last half-day of our Andalusia road trip.

Where to Stay in Marbella

We stayed at the modern Marbella Inn Hotel . It doesn’t have a private parking lot, but we didn’t struggle to find a place to park the car right next to it. It’s very well-located, clean, and comfortable.

Check the hotel’s latest prices and availability here or find another place to stay in Marbella.

Things to Do in Marbella

I added Marbella to my one-week Andalucia itinerary because I was looking for a relaxing way to spend our last half day.

This city is considered a luxurious summer holiday destination, but it has a lot more to it. Take a free walking tour to explore it with a guide.

1. Old Town

You’ve probably already figured out how much I love strolling through old towns, and Marbella’s old quarter was no exception.

With gorgeous squares like Plaza de los Naranjos and charming winding streets, it has to be the city’s most beautiful part.

If you want to explore the old town with a guide, book this tour (that also includes tapas and wine tastings) or take this free tour .

2. Puerto Banus

To experience some of Marbella’s glitz and glamour side, head to Puerto Banus, a luxurious marina near the city.

Apart from strolling next to all the impressive yachts, here you’ll also find boutique shops, restaurants, and bars.

I don’t think Puerto Banus is a must-visit, but it was a nice add-on to this trip. To get there, you’ll need to drive or take a taxi.

3. Paseo Maritimo

Walking alongside Marbella’s promenade as the sun sets is an excellent way to end your trip.

You don’t need much more than sandy beaches, palm trees, cafes, restaurants, and bars to have a relaxing afternoon and evening.

If you’re lucky, you might come across some open-air bars with live music.

If you have more than one week in southern Spain or you want to spend more time in Marbella, here are a few other things you can do .

After our last night in Marbella , we were headed to Malaga to catch our flight back home. You can definitely also spend 1- 3 days in Malaga itself.

Andalucia Road Trip Itinerary – Tips and Notes

Changing this itinerary.

There’s a lot more to see in this region, so here are a few places I wish I could have included in my southern Spain travel itinerary .

If you’re looking to add some active activities, there are plenty of hikes in this area, including the famous Caminito del Rey .

Accommodations

I normally recommend finding accommodation in small villages when going on a road trip like this one. Usually, it’s cheaper and easier to park your car than at a big city hotel’s parking lot.

However, most of our Andalucia road trip itinerary included cities, so we had to stay in most of them and pay for parking.

Note that city hotel parking in southern Spain can cost up to 20 euros per day and can be small and tricky to access.

You can also try to find accommodations on the outskirts of these cities (where hotel parking might be cheaper) and use public transportation to get to the city centers.

Also, know that not every hotel has an elevator, so be sure to check that in advance.

When to Visit

This region is definitely one of the best fall destinations in Europe .

Our south of Spain road trip took place in September when the temperatures were a lot milder than in plain summer and it wasn’t too overcrowded with tourists.

For those reasons, spring would also be a good time to spend a week in Andalucia. With relatively warm temperatures even in winter, some people consider this region a great European winter destination .

How to Get to Andalucia

We landed in Malaga , picked up our car at the airport, and started our journey towards the first stop, Granada , right away.

We chose to book a flight to Malaga because it was faster and more economical than a flight to Granada.

In addition, it might be easier to find a non-stop flight to Malaga, depending on the city you are flying from.

Getting to both cities by train from Madrid is also possible and might be more convenient. You can compare flight and train rates in one place on Omio (former GoEuro).

Read more about Madrid:

• Where to stay in Madrid
• Famous landmarks in Madrid
• Fun facts about Madrid
• Madrid travel tips
• 2 days in Madrid
• 4 days in Madrid
• Free museums in Madrid
• Alternative things to do in Madrid
• Breakfast and brunch spots in Madrid
• Madrid packing list

Every great Andalusian road trip begins with a proper car. We found a good car rental deal on Europcar (I started by comparing prices on Rentalcars , and going for manual gear definitely helped save some more money).

Luckily, everything from picking up the car to returning it went smoothly.

Even if you’re not visiting during the high season (summer), be sure to make your reservation a few months in advance. Compare Europcar and other companies’ rates on Rentalcars.com to find the best deal .

In terms of driving, getting inside the city centers of the region’s cities is not the most convenient (as it is in other regions and countries), but other than that, it’s fairly easy to drive around Andalusia.

Important tip: City hotel parking lots are not very spacious, so I wouldn’t recommend renting a big car.

Other Tips and Notes

– This Andalusia itinerary includes 7 full days and 7 nights.

– Don’t pay for a hotel breakfast in advance. It can be pretty pricey and not worth it, so be sure to read reviews or check it out when you arrive at your hotel. Instead, you can get coffee, juice, and a croissant or a toast with tomato and olive oil (a Spanish classic) for 2-3 euros at a cafe. 

– Have spare change for toll roads and don’t forget to pack these road trip essentials .

– Here are the best road trip apps that will help you plan the perfect trip.

– For more things to know before planning your trip, check out my 55 Spain travel tips .

Did you like this itinerary for one week in Andalucia? Read more:

• Spain travel quotes
• Novels set in Spain
• Spain themed gifts
• Spain off the beaten path
• Long weekend breaks in Spain

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “Andalusia Road Trip: The Best 1-Week Southern Spain Itinerary”

Such a beautiful country! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide! Saved your post for the future 🙂

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

Southern Spain road trip itinerary: best places to visit on your Andalusia road trip

Written by Maartje

The southern part of Spain is perhaps the most beautiful destination in Europe. Andalusia is perfect for a road trip, visiting the most beautiful places in Southern Spain. From fairytale buildings in Moorish style to beautiful nature reserves. From idyllic white villages to well-known historic cities. From snow-capped peaks to the famous Spanish Costas. Andalusia has many different things to offer, making this the perfect destination for your Southern Spain road trip. We teamed up with international travel bloggers to create the ultimate itinerary for your Andalusia road trip including all famous highlights and unique beaten off the beaten track gems.

Where to start your Southern Spain road trip

If you live in Europe like we do, you could choose to drive your own car down south to Andalusia. It’s much easier if you don’t have to take into account the baggage requirements of airlines and you’ll save the costs of a rental car. Allow quite a bit of travel time though, as it might take some days to drive to Spain. The drive takes about 22 hours from our home country, the Netherlands.

If you want to save yourself that trouble or you don’t live in Europe, you should book a flight to the international airport of either Seville or Málaga. In our experience, flights to Málaga are usually the cheapest, as Sevilla is a much more popular destination. You can easily rent a car from Seville or Malaga and start your Andalusia road trip. When booking a rental car online, pay close attention to the additional (insurance) costs. Full insurance is not always included with all online providers, but DiscoverCars always makes this very clear ánd we usually book our cars with them for the lowers prices.

The best travel time to visit Southern Spain

You can visit the southern parts of Europe all year round. The most popular time to travel to Spain is in the summer , making this the high season. You’ll have wonderfully warm days and little rain for sure, but expect higher prices and bigger crowds from both Spanish and foreign visitors.

The high season might therefore not be the best time to visit Andalusia. We think the Andalusia summers are too hot as well. Those kinds of temperatures are perfect for a beach holiday, but much less pleasant when road tripping, hiking or visiting cities. As our Southern Spain road trip itinerary includes not just beach destinations but beautiful cities, villages and natural parks as well, consider traveling in spring or autumn . We ourselves traveled to Andalusia in October and found the temperatures at that time of the year perfect for hiking and exploring Spanish towns.

How much travel time do you need for Southern Spain?

You could easily explore Andalusia for a month or even longer, but also book a weekend city trip to Seville or beach trip to Marbella. We would recommend you to plan in at least two weeks for a good road trip visiting the highlights of southern Spain. Our itinerary takes you past 14 highlights, unknown gems and spectacular national parks. Plan in three weeks to drive our full road trip itinerary. But even if you have less time, you can use our itinerary. Consider skipping the national parks of the 10th and 11th destinations, as they are a bit more northern than the other destinations. You could also choose not to visit all picturesque villages, but choose just one or two.

Southern Spain road trip itinerary

recommended by: us

Start your Andalusia road trip in Málaga, as you can usually find the cheapest flights to the Málaga international airport and there are many rental companies to pick up your rental car . But don’t hit the road right away, but explore Málaga first. Málaga is one of the most popular destinations and the second-largest city in Andalusia.

Málaga is a historic port city on the coast of the Spanish Mediterranean and a wonderful place to start your trip. The city offers a unique combination of beach and culture. The best way to explore Málaga is to wander around the beautiful streets and explore its historic architecture. Then enjoy the coast by spending some time on the beach.

Two nights should be enough to see the best of Málaga. When sightseeing the city, the most interesting sights are the Cathedral, Castillio de Gibralfaro, the Marcado Central de Atarazanas and Gibralfaro Hill. The cathedral in particular is not to be missed in Málaga and one of the most famous attractions. You pay an entrance fee to visit the cathedral, except on Sunday afternoons.

If you are an art lover like us, a visit to the Picasso Museum should be on your wish list. Málaga’s most famous museum is housed in a beautiful monumental palace and is located near the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The permanent collection comes from the Picasso family and thus mainly consists of works that have remained within the family, from the early and late periods of Picasso. More modern art? Then you go to the Center Pompidou Málaga. Both can be visited free of charge on Sundays during the last hours.

If you are looking for a place to stay, you have to choose between the coast and the center. On the coast, Soho Boutique Las Vegas with a pool and a view of the beach is a must. In the center, the colorful Barcelo Málaga should be your choice.

#2 Hiking at pueblo blanco Ojén

The first stop after Málaga is a more off-the-beaten-track destination in Spain: the small village of Ojén, not far from the Spanish coast near Marbella. The drive from Málaga with your rental car takes about an hour.

Tucked away in the beautiful mountains of the Sierra de las Nievas, but only 15 minutes from the beaches of Marbella and the Costa del Sol, the whitewashed village of Ojén offers the best of both worlds. Ojén is one of the so-called ‘pueblos blancos’ in southern Spain. These whitewashed villages are typical of Andalusia and a must for your Spanish bucket list. Ojén is also beautifully situated in the mountains at 300 meters altitude. This hidden gem shows you the authentic Spanish village life and is the perfect base for beautiful mountain hikes.

We slept in La Posada del Angel , a small-scale family-run hotel in an authentic whitewashed building with sixteen rooms around a patio. It is located in the heart of Ojén, near the main square. The best way to explore the village is to take a walk around the village. The main church and square are a must-see if only to sit down with a cup of coffee on one of the terraces of a local restaurant and watch the local children play by the fountains.

One of the best things to do during your stay in Ojén is hiking in the Juanar nature reserve. The view from the mountains is beautiful and there are hiking trails for every fitness level. Most trails start at the hotel Refugio De Juanar , a ten-minute drive from Ojén. We did the Pozuelo hike one day and the Cruz de Juanar hike the next.

The 3-hour Pozuelo is a fairly easy hike with the hardest part – uphill – at the beginning. The view is fantastic. The Cruz de Januar hike is shorter with only 1.5-2 hours of hiking, but it’s more challenging and takes you to a mountain top. It is named after the large cross on the top. Especially the last part is difficult with a steep path up the mountain. The views are spectacular and totally worth it.

Read more: we wrote an extensive blog about Ojén and the stunning hikes in the Refugio de Juanar .

#3 Day Trip to Caminito del Rey

Another highlight in Andalusia is the Caminito del Rey. It’s a beautiful trail that was once the most dangerous in the world, but now a beautiful attraction for travelers in southern Spain.

The Caminito is a 55-minute drive from Ojén, the previous destination on this southern Spain itinerary. You can visit this hiking route as a day trip from Ojén or on the road when driving from Ojén to your next destination. Allow about half a day for your visit.

The Caminito del Rey – translated: King’s Path or Road of the King – is a beautiful walking trail along steep cliffs. The trail is about 7.5 kilometers long and leads through the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge. The trail is already a hundred years old and was once constructed between two hydroelectric power stations. When the path was no longer used, it fell into disrepair and the path continued to crumble along the cliffs. What remained: one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. It was forbidden to go there, but that didn’t stop the real daredevils. Resulting in a number of deaths. The path has now been restored and is more than safe for visitors.

Open to the public since 2015, the Caminito is one of the best things to do in Andalusia. Although you will still be walking along steep cliffs, the path has now been widened and fences have been installed throughout. For extra safety, you will even be given a helmet at the start. You’ll walk on a glass surface at some places, allowing you to see how deep the gorge is below you. But in general you walk on wooden decking, a path tightly along the cliffs. Hold onto your belongings: even though it’s now safe to use the path, the gorge is still as deep as it was.

The most spectacular is the end of the route. There is a glass platform, which is not a place to go for those with a fear of heights. There is also a suspension bridge at the end of the King’s Path that will remind you of the old, more dangerous days. The bridge is quite narrow, you can see the gorge below you and it moves when you walk on it or with the wind.

The trail is a one-way route and you’ll end at the end of the gorge. There are shuttle buses to take you back to the start, where you parked your rental car. Make sure to book your tickets for the Caminito del Rey online well in advance, as only a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time. Especially in high season you should make sure to book your tickets days in advance.

Read more: we also wrote an extensive blog about the special Caminito del Rey .

#4 Charming and historic Ronda

recommended by: Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Ronda  is one of Spain’s oldest towns and the third most popular place in Andalusia. It is well worth spending two days exploring its spectacular location.  Ronda perches dramatically on a plateau, overlooking a sheer cliff and is cut in two by the El Tago gorge.

Puente Nuevo is Ronda’s most famous landmark. This amazing stone bridge was built in 1788 and spans the gorge at its narrowest point,  linking La Ciudad (the old Moorish part) with El Mercadillo (the 15th-century market area and ‘new’ town). The bridge is impressive and best appreciated from one of the lovely hiking trails along the gorge.

La Ciudad is fun to explore with its narrow streets and white-washed Moorish houses. In El Mercadillo, the main landmark is Plaza de Toros – the second oldest building in Spain and still used as a bullring. In the 17-18th centuries, Ronda was home to the famous Romero dynasty of matadors. The bullring was built in 1785 and has a central arena, surrounded by two tiers of arcaded galleries. A Bullfight still takes place there in September. The town is proud of its bullfighting tradition and has a museum that traces its history. Ronda was also linked with bandits and has a museum dedicated to its second claim to fame!  

Just on the outskirts of the town are the old Arab Baths – well worth seeing as they date from the 12th century and are among the best-preserved in Spain.

Hotel Don Miguel stands next to the Puente Nuevo overlooking the gorge and has simple traditional rooms and a terrace with spectacular views. Parador de Ronda also overlooks the bridge and the cliff and its building was once the town hall. Both hotels have parking, so you can park up and explore Ronda on foot at your leisure.

#5 Tarifa, the southernmost tip of Europe

recommended by: Alessia and Toti from Italian Trip Abroad

Along the route through the coast of Andalusia, there is Tarifa, a little village facing Morocco with a strong Arabic influence. Tarifa is less known among tourists and more among surf enthusiasts. The strong winds blowing toward the land attract extreme water sports enthusiasts. The many beaches along the coast are ideal to try windsurfing, kitesurfing and many other water sports. As you might understand, Tarifa is quite windy, so it’s good to be prepared for that.

If you are fond of watersports activities the most famous beaches are Playa de Los Lances, Playa Bolonia and Playa Chica. The first one is for sure the best, surrounded by the Natural Reserve. Playa Bologna is definitely the most beautiful, and you will end up on the sandy beach after a walk through the dunes. Playa Chica instead is the easiest to reach, and it’s closest to the city centre. This is the ideal spot for kitesurfing and kiteboarding in Tarifa .

The short strip of sea that divides Tarifa to the coast of Morocco, makes this place the closest to the Africa Continent. This enriches the value given to Tarifa as the perfect bridge between the two cultures, and you can also recognize that from the architecture which is slightly different compared to the other traditional Spanish towns. The city is ideal for a day trip, along the route toward Cadiz or on the other side to Malaga.

Even if Tarifa is considered an off-the-beaten-path destination in Andalusia, the natural beauties surrounding the town are worth a visit. As a less crowded destination, there are beautiful hotels in Tarifa for lower prices than you’ll see in the rest of Andalusia. Highly recommended are Kook Hotel Tarifa with its rooftop terrace, Ohana Tarifa Hostel met unanimously positive reviews and the beautiful design hotel Hospedería Diez Y Seis .

#6 Parque Natural de los Alcornocales

recommended by: Alison from Alison in Andalucia

Parque Natural de los Alcornocales is 170,000 hectares of cork oak forest (the largest forest of its kind in the world) which stretches across both Cadiz and Malaga provinces and encompasses 16 municipalities of Andalucia. 

To really appreciate everything that Los Alcornocales has to offer you need to explore on foot as it’s the ideal destination for anyone who loves hiking, with routes for all abilities. 

One of the most beautiful places to stop on your road trip through Los Alcornocales is  Castellar de la Frontera , one of Andalucia’s famous, and most beautiful, white villages. 

From Castellar new town you can walk the beautiful Sendero de la Mariposa Monarca where, during spring, the air is filled with monarch butterflies. This is an easy route but, for something more strenuous, it’s possible to hike up to the old walled town and the Castillo de Castellar which sits on a hilltop and has outstanding views of the Guadarranque reservoir and Los Alcornocales right down to Gibraltar, and the mountains of Morocco in the background. 

This walk up to the old town is partly on an ancient Roman road and takes you through wooded areas where, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot plenty of wildlife including roe deer. 

You can do both walks by parking at Venta La Jarandilla on the CA-P-5131 road, a great stopfor pre- or post-hike refreshments.

Parque Natural de Los Alcornocales makes an ideal break on your road trip if you want to experience rural tourism in Andalucia. When looking for a place to stay in Castellar, there is a choice of accommodation from  ‘casa rurales’ within the old town walls , to Castillo de Castellar . 

#7 Jerez de la Frontera

recommended by: Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Jerez de la Frontera is often an overlooked city in Andalucia, in favour for its more famous neighbours such as Cadiz or Sevilla. To see a little bit of this fantastic city you will need to stop here for a good 2 to 3 days on your Andalucia road trip. There are plenty of places to park your car, especially around the main market, Mercato Central de Abastos. Most hotels will have their own underground parking but, if you arrive late, they might be full as they are quite small. If you visit during the weekend, you will be able to park free of charge on the blue lines. During low season, the meters don’t work, and you can park on blue lines for free any time. If in doubt, ask at the reception of your hotel.

There are plenty of  things to do in Jerez de la Frontera , starting with tasting sherry. The city is famous for its sherry bodegas, which you can visit to learn how sherry is made. This fortified wine, famous all over the world, is only produced in what is known under the Jerez Triangle – an area between Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlucar de Barrameda and Puerto de Santa Maria. Most of the sherry is actually dry. The sweet variety is mostly sent to export, and this is why most of the world associates sherry with a sweet, sugary drink.

The old town of Jerez de la Frontera is a labyrinth of tiny, narrow streets flanked by white houses, which open up to small plazas. You will be surprised on how many churches are there in Jerez de la Frontera. The Cathedral of Jerez is an architectural masterpiece which will take a good few hours to visit. The details on its façade are so intricate, with statues and scenes from the Bible. Just in front of the Cathedral there is a small tapas bar where you can enjoy lunch with a view and, if you’re lucky, attend an impromptu flamenco performance.

There are plenty of hotels to stay the night, depending on your budget. If you are looking for a cheap place, check out Hotel Joma or Vivian’s Guest House . For a top-of-the-range hotel, book luxury hotel Palacio Maria Luisa with outdoor swimming pool and stunning suites.

recommended by: Haley from Haley Blackall Travel

No road trip through Andalusia would be complete without a visit to the region’s vibrant capital city, Seville. For such a large populace, Seville enjoys a very walkable landscape, and the cobblestones of the historic center can be well explored on foot. Park your car at the airport’s long-term lot and take a quick 15-minute taxi ride into the city.

As many consider to be the birthplace of the sultry flamenco dance style, don’t leave Seville without seeing a show. They can be found all over downtown, but the best place to see them is at the Museo del Baile Flamenco, set amongst a beautiful pillared courtyard. 

Along with Seville’s rich artistic heritage, the city showcases some deep architectural history. As the world’s largest gothic church and completed in the 1300s, starting your journey at the Seville Cathedral is a must. Walk through to the adjoining royal palace complex, Alcazar. Peruse the royal rooms, courtyards, and grounds and muse at this fine example of Mudejar design, along with other architectural styles.

Next, venture over to the Plaza de Espana. Built in the early 1900s in a beautiful Moorish paradisiacal style, the plaza showcased gardens, ponds, tiled fountains, and pavilions. Especially enjoyed in the golden afternoon light before sunset. 

After exploring, what better place to experience the best of what Andalucian cuisine has to offer. Perch on a stool at the oldest tapas bar in the city, El Rinconcillo, dating back to 1690! Select a tapa of Iberian ham and a glass of Manzanilla sherry and relish in the lively atmosphere. 

For a luxury stay, book a night or two at the beautifully detailed Hotel Casa Del Poeta . Or, for good value, Hotel Amadeus fits the bill. Both are advantageously located in the center of all the main Seville attractions.

Spend three days here to ensure you experience all the highlights of this spirited, historic city. 

recommended by: Anca from Dream.Book.Travel

Cordoba is the one destination in Andalusia that can easily be left out due to its northern location, a bit off the main routes. But during our Andalusia road trip with a toddler, it was an absolute must-see, as non-negotiable as Granada and Seville.

The reason – in all of Andalusia, Cordoba was the one place where we felt like absolutely stepping back in time. From the Roman bridge to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, and from the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral that is unique in the world, combining Christian and Muslim architecture elements under one roof, to the cobbled flower-adorned streets, Cordoba is an essential stop for understanding the spirit of Andalusia. Famous for its patios, Cordoba hides a well-preserved Jewish quarter with small hidden-gems museums such as the Casa Andalusi that recreates a typical 12th-century Islamic paper factory. History buffs can further explore Medina Azahara, the ruins of the 10th-century royal palace, and the Renaissance Palacio de Viana.

Whereas a one-day stopover is definitely doable in terms of time, we advise spending at least two nights here. Especially if you plan to visit during the summer months, keep in mind that Cordoba has the highest summer average daily temperatures in Europe (you’ll definitely feel the difference compared to the rest of Andalusia), thus you can only be up and about mornings and evenings. Take the time for a well-deserved siesta in between, to regain your strengths for the second part of the day. To be able to enjoy the midday time, you can consider booking a hotel with outdoor facilities such as cool patios or swimming pools.

We enjoyed our stay a bit outside town at Hotel Abetos del Maestre Escuela but but also consider staying at the centrally located Las Casas de la Judería  in beautiful manors from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, including patios, terrace and outdoor pool and its own tapas bar. Mayflowers Hostel is a good choice for budget travelers. It has affordable private rooms or beds in a dormitory and a sunny roof terrace.

Booking a hotel that allows car parking is definitely a plus, as the entire historic town center is pietonal. We opted for paid underground parking facilities, clearly marked on main roads, for the times when we visited the city.

#10 Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Natural Park

recommended by: Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park is one of the most beautiful places to stop on a road trip through Andalusia. There are so many places to see, featuring some of the most beautiful  white villages in Andalusia , like Cazorla. The village is wrapped between the mountains and is the gateway to the natural park, so it is the perfect place to stay for a few nights. Both Hotel Balcon de Cazorlac  and Albergue Inturjoven Cazorla are great places to stay centrally in the village. There are parking spaces along the streets outside the heart of the village, but they are all within walking distance. If you are lucky, you can find parking below the castle where the hike to Rio Cerezuelo begins. This is the most popular hike from the village and features several waterfalls and spectacular village views.

The natural park is one of the biggest protected natural areas in southern Spain and has a large number of wildlife that can easily be spotted when walking in nature, but also when driving around, so make sure you drive slowly and take care so you don’t hit any animals, especially early morning and late night when they are more likely to cross the street.

The most famous and spectacular hikes in Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park is Rio Borosa. A hike that takes about 8 hours along the Borosa River, along a boardwalk, further up, a trail that takes you past several vivid waterfalls with glittering turquoise waterholes, and finally through two tunnels in the mountainside before you get to a dam at the end before turning around.

The natural park also hides the beginning of the Guadalquivir River, which is the river dividing Seville, being the longest river in Andalusia. This is also a wonderful walk. Finally, you can enjoy several mountain walks with breathtaking views if you have packed your hiking boots. 

#11 Cabo de Gata Natural Park

recommended off by: Linn Haglund of Andalucia Hiking

The next stop on this road trip through Andalusia is the Cabo de Gata-Níjas National Park, One of the best stops for an Andalusia road trip is Cabo de Gata-Níjas Natural Park, one of the most astounding natural parks in Spain. The deserted area is spotted with cute villages and the coast is unreal featuring some of the most beautiful, sand-blown beaches you can imagine.

While some of them, like Playa de Los Genoveses, Monsul, and Playazo beach, are easily accessed by car, there are others you have to hike to. The most popular is Playa de Los Muertos (beach of the dead), where you will have to walk down a steep trail to get to the astounding white pebbled beach. But some of the most magnificent  hikes in Andalusia  follow the rugged coastline dipping down to some of the most remote beaches. You can also explore a unique hippie community in Cala de San Pedro where you can (respectfully) camp on the beach – the only place in Spain where beach camping is allowed.

Cabo de Gata is also famous for being the filming location for several Hollywood movies like Indiana Jones The Las Crusade and Assassin’s Creed.

There are several places to stay in the natural park, but the most quaint villages are Las Negras or San Jose . The first one is situated with access to Cala de San Pedro either by walking an hour or by a short boat ride and is closer to beaches like Playazo Beach and Playa de Los Muertos. San José, on the other hand, is closer to Playa de Los Genoveses and Monsul beach. This is also where you can walk some of the most astounding coastal walks. A great campsite in between is Los Escullos, in the middle of the desert, yet within walking distance to Los Escullos beach and cliffs.

Parking in Cabo de Gata-Níjar is usually not a problem, but by the most popular beaches, there is a parking fee and regulated parking spots in the summer months.

#12 Granada

recommended by: Vicki from Vicki Viaja

Granada is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in Andalusia. Not only the world-famous Alhambra but also fascinating architecture and great customs and traditions attract thousands of tourists to this city in Andalusia every year.

No one should leave Granada without visiting the Alhambra. Even if you spend only one day in Granada, you should definitely see this remarkable place. This building is a Moorish palace whose roots go back many centuries. Nowadays, the impressive building is considered one of the most popular and important sights in all of Spain. But also, the neighboring gardens of the Generalife are genuinely worth a visit.

But not only the Alhambra is an excellent reason to visit Granada. The city center also has a lot to offer. Lose yourself in the city’s narrow streets, which are full of an Arab-Spanish charm. One of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods for an extended stroll is called Albayzin. Here you can discover some of Granada’s best photo spots and some of the most outstanding corners of the city.

Also, make sure to eat some delicious tapas in Granada. The tapas are some of the best foods to try in Spain. The Arabic influence is also noticeable in some restaurants and some dishes. In many tapas bars in Granada, you will receive a free tapa with any drink you order.

To get a glorious insight into the locals’ lives, it is worth renting a room. Like a room in one of the typical cave houses in the hippie district of Sacromonte. The Albayzin and El Centro are the best neighbourhoods to stay in Granada close to the main sights. Recommended in Albayzin are Hotel Casa Morisco  in a building from the fifteenth century with traditional beamed ceilings and a view of the Alhambra, and Hotel Santa Isabela La Real  in an authentic historic building. In El Centro, the top picks are Toc Hostel Granada  for a really neat, modern and cozy hostel with private and dormitory rooms in a prime location, and Khu Hotel  100 meters from the cathedral and on a street full of local tapas bars.

Since the city is relatively large, finding a parking space within the city center can be challenging. Therefore, it may be worthwhile to park your car outside the center in a parking garage or a parking lot.

#13 Pueblo blanco Iznajar

recommended by: Milijana Gabrić from World Travel Connector

Picturesque Iznájar village near the previous destination of Granada and just as much a must-see place in southern Spain as the other destinations on this Andalusia road trip itinerary. This authentic whitewashed village is one of the most charming places in  southern Spain and beyond. The natural setting of Iznajar is incredibly spectacular.

Scenic Iznájar sits on a hill and overlooks Iznajar lake, the largest lake in southern Spain while Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park is just around the corner. Beautiful hilltop Iznájar holds traditional whitewashed houses with flowery patios, typical Andalusian narrow streets decorated with genuine Andalusian blue planters, an ancient Moorish castle, and lovely Iglesia de Santiago from the 16th century.  

Iznájar itself is serene, idyllic, and not touristy. Therefore it’s easy to find free parking in Iznajar. While Iznajar can be seen in half of a day, the area deserves spending at least 2-3 days. There is fantastic Valdearenas beach on Iznajar lake and trails of Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park are simply amazing. If you are a nature lover who enjoys outdoor activities, you need to visit idyllic Iznajar, swim in the largest lake in Andalusia, and explore the fabulous Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park. Enjoy in serene Iznájar, try out delicious Spanish dishes,  hike Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park, cycle around the Iznajar lake, swim, kayak, or windsurf in freshwater Iznajar lake … and make lifelong memories on your road trip in Andalusia.

Romantic Casa Las Tinajas in Iznájar with a wonderful terrace and an outdoor swimming pool is one of the best places to stay in Iznájar. Beautiful The Townhouse holiday home with Iznájar lake views is also a great accommodation choice.

#14 Nerja on the Costa del Sol

recommended by: Cristina from My Little World Traveling

It’s time to end this road trip with some beach time! Nestled in Costa Del Sol, Málaga, Nerja is one of the most beautiful white towns in the province. Not only is it famous for its white buildings but the crystal blue sea, beaches and caves.

Its main attraction is Balcon de Europa, a viewpoint that overlooks the sea and mountains. Balcon de Europa is located at the heart of the town centre, so it’s a great location to explore the independent shops and taste the delicious Andalusian dishes. Another highlight of Nerja is its caves, which are some of the most visited in Spain. Although your visit to the caves won’t last longer than 45 minutes, it’s worth seeing its impressive stalactites. Lastly, Nerja has some of the best beaches in Costa Del Sol. If you’re up for a relaxing day at the beach, Maro is the perfect beach for you.

The best place to stay in Nerja is Hotel Balcón de Europa , a four-star hotel that has incredible views of the sea, direct access to the beach and a great restaurant that serves mouthwatering paella. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, Apartamento Balcon de Europa is a good choice. The apartments have a rooftop where you can swim and relax at their swimming pool.

One day in Nerja is enough to visit the main attractions, however, you can stay another day or two more to explore nearby pretty villages like Frigiliana or have a full day packed with adventure activities like hiking, canoeing or kayaking. 

Parking in Nerja isn’t easy as it gets very busy, especially during the summer season. On-street parking is generally free, but you’ll find it difficult to find a spot. The Municipal Underground Car Park which is situated a footstep from Balcon de Europa is the perfect parking to stay central, however, the price for parking your car can be up to 22 euro per day.

#15 Back to Malaga

We’ll end this Andalusia itinerary right back where we started in Málaga. Return your rental car and maybe enjoy one last day in this coastal city before flying back home.

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7 Days in Southern Spain: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

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Are you planning a road trip through Southern Spain?

Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or want to cover the main highlights, I have you covered!

I’ve been living in Southern Spain since 2020 , so I’ve had plenty of time to explore all the beautiful destinations, savor the local flavors, and uncover the best stops along the way.

I know it can feel overwhelming to plan a road trip that would capture the essence of Andalucía, from Moorish architecture in Granada to the beaches of the Costa del Sol. But don’t worry—this itinerary will save you time and ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Ready to hit the road?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links – if you decide to book using one of the links, I will earn a small commission that helps me run this site. This is at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How Much Time Do I Need For Southern Spain?

Southern Spain, particularly the region of Andalusia, is full of historical cities, picturesque villages, and places with breathtaking natural beauty.

To fully appreciate what Southern Spain has to offer, I recommend staying for at least 7 days to cover the main highlights .

Seven days allows you to visit main destinations and attractions without rushing from one place to the next, and you will also have plenty of time to chill and relax.

If you’re considering staying a little longer, I have also offered some additional places to explore for each of the destinations on this itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Southern Spain

The best time to start your Southern Spain road trip is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) .

The weather is pleasantly warm during these seasons, so it’s ideal for exploring the cities and villages without the heat and crowds you would experience in the summer months. Summer is Spain’s main holiday season, and most of the activity is focused on the coastline of Costa del Sol.

The inland cities are very hot in the summer months, and most of the locals leave to stay in the seaside apartments. If you’re booking accommodation in places like Seville or Cordoba in summer, you might notice is much more affordable, and that’s because it’s very hot in there.

Spring is wonderful as the landscape is lush, and the cities host local festivals.

Road Trip Itinerary Overview

This 7-day road trip will cover the key highlights and will include the most iconic locations in Southern Spain.

Each day is carefully planned to ensure a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and a chance to get to know the Spanish culture.

You’ll begin in Seville, the heart of Andalusia, and make your way through historic cities and charming villages, concluding your journey on the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol.

Airports in Southern Spain

To plan your trip, I recommend booking your flights to and from Malaga Costa del Sol airport (AGP), which is the main travel hub for travelers from Europe and beyond.

Alternatively, if you’re coming from outside of Europe, Madrid airport (Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport IATA: MAD, ICAO: LEMD) is a great option with connecting flights to the US and also Asia.

The drive from Malaga to Seville takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, and from Madrid to Seville, approximately 5 hours. If you arrive late at night, both airports have hotels conveniently located for overnight stays.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Seville

Your journey begins in Seville, the capital of the autonomous region of Andalusia.

There is a lot to see in Seville, but to cover the main highlights, you can focus on three main places of interest. I recommend staying in Seville overnight and heading out to Cordoba in the morning.

Royal Alcazar of Seville

This stunning royal palace was built in a blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Originally built as a Moorish fortress, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for its intricate tilework, lush gardens, and historic significance. Check more photos here .

Time For Visit : 2 hours

Tickets : Get your tickets here with audio guide included , or book a guided tour here .

Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower

The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous not only due to its size, but also because it is the home of the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The Giralda Tower , originally a minaret, offers spectacular views of the city and is an iconic symbol of Seville.

Time for Visit: 1 – 1.5 hours

Seville: Cathedral, Giralda, and Royal Alcázar Guided Tour

Barrio santa cruz.

This charming old Jewish quarter of Seville is known for its narrow, winding streets and beautiful squares bursting with flowers and historical buildings. Take a lazy stroll through this old town and stop in the local bars to taste the tapas selection.

If You Have More Time

If you want to extend the time you spend in Seville, there are quite a few stunning places and palaces you shouldn’t miss out on! Check out the articles below to read the full guide!

• Plaza de Espana (famous square in Seville)
• Casa de Pilatos (must see movie location)
• Palacio de las Dueñas (stunning example of Andalusian architecture)
• Casa de Salinas (private residence and a stunning palace)
• Palacio De La Condesa De Lebrija (cool palace with ancient mosaics)

Where to Eat in Seville

For an authentic dining experience and tapas, head to Universal People Bar , a short walk away from the Church of El Salvador .

El Pinton Restaurante is another great option in Seville, offering contemporary twists on traditional dishes.

Where to Stay in Seville

One of my favourite places is Hotel Casa 1800 and they have a hotel right on the main street leading to the Cathedral. I think you will love the location.

For a truly luxurious experience, Hotel Alfonso XIII is a historic five-star property located near Seville’s major landmarks, including the Alcázar and Cathedral.

For a more modern and stylish option, EME Catedral Hotel provides chic rooms with a rooftop pool and stunning views of the Giralda Tower. If you prefer a boutique stay, Corral del Rey in the Alfalfa district offers a blend of traditional Andalusian design with modern amenities.

Day 2: Seville to Córdoba

Distance : 140 km

Drive Duration : 1.5 hours

On day two, drive to Córdoba, a city renowned for its impressive Moorish architecture and the most important monument – the Mosque Cathedral of Cordoba .

The Mosque of Córdoba is a UNESCO World Heritage site known as a mix of two different religions, being home to an Islamic mosque and a Christian cathedral. It’s one of the most impressive religious buildings you’ll ever see, and definitely a bucket list destination.

You will need approximately two hours for your visit, and you can get tickets with the audio guide here . Alternatively, you can check the option below, which also includes a tour of the other attractions.

After the Mezequita, I recommend a short walk through the old town (Juderia de Córdoba) and heading out towards Bario San Basilio, where you will find the pretty flower-filled patios. They are not all open to the public (only during the patio festival in May), but some can be visited for a small fee – you can check it out here .

After the walk, I highly recommend exploring the Alcazar of Córdoba , which is right next to Bario San Basilio. The gardens are stunning!

Jewish Quarter, Synagogue, Mosque, and Alcázar Tour

If you want to explore a bit more, here are some other options in Córdoba:

• Palacio de Viana – beautiful historical palace with gorgeous gardens
• La Casa Andalusí – a little hidden gem in the Juderia
• Bullfighting Museum – learn more about the history of bullfighting

Where to Eat in Córdoba

Taberna Patio de la Juderia is a great flamenco option located just north of the Mezquita, set in a traditional home dating back to the 18 th  century.

Alternatively, Casa Pepe de la Judería offers delicious dishes in a beautiful setting – this award winning restaurant is a good option for an intimate meal.

Where to Stay in Córdoba

For convenient access to all the attractions, I recommend staying in the old town (Juderia), from where you can easily walk everywhere. Most of the hotels will charge an extra fee for parking, so make sure to check the details before booking.

Which places are worth considering?

For a luxurious experience, Hotel Hospes Palacio del Bailío is a restored 16th-century palace that combines modern amenities with historic elegance. If you’re looking for a boutique option, Las Casas de la Judería offers a unique stay in a series of connected traditional Andalusian houses with beautiful courtyards.

Eurostars Conquistador is ideal for those wanting proximity to the famous Mezquita, providing comfort and a perfect location.

Day 3: Córdoba to Granada

Distance : 207 km

Drive Duration : 2 hrs 10 mins

Your next destination is Granada, home to the world-famous Alhambra, a sprawling palace and fortress complex with breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Granada is my favourite place in Southern Spain, and if you can, I highly recommend extending your stay in this city to explore beyond the main sights and attractions.

Before planning your trip, it’s essential to book your tickets to Alhambra in advance, they tend to sell out very fast, even outside of the main tourist season. Alhambra consists of four main parts – the main Nasrid palace with gardens, the Alcazaba fortress , the Palace of Charles V and finally the beautiful Generalife Gardens . You will need at least half a day to explore them all.

In the afternoon and early evening, wander through the Albayzín neighborhood, known for its narrow, winding streets and stunning views of the Alhambra. I also recommend booking a local flamenco show in one of the caves in Sacromonte, I really liked this show (see my photos here ).

Granada: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces Entry Ticket

Where to Eat in Granada

Granada is famous for its free tapas served with every drink, one of a very few places in Andalusia which still keeps this old tradition.

Head to Restaurant Mirador de Morayama if you want a traditional Carmen experience with Alhambra views – Carmens are traditional gardens in Granada with beautiful setting and views. Check my photos here .

For the best views, I recommend Restaurante El Huerto Juan de Ranas , which is just below Mirador San Nicolas. It is a little more expensive, but the views are the best in Granada and food was fabulous too!

I’ve been to Granada six times already and on every visit discover new beautiful places, here are just some of my favourites:

• Sacromonte Abbey
• Sacromonte Caves Museum
• Carmen de los Martires (short walk from Alhambra)
• Science Museum of Granada
• Basilica San Juan de Dios
• La Cartuja Monastery

Where to Stay in Granada

Granada offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from charming boutique hotels to luxury stays with breathtaking views of the iconic Alhambra.

For an unforgettable experience, consider Parador de Granada , a historic hotel which is set within the Alhambra complex itself, offering stunning views and a beautiful atmosphere. Hotel Alhambra Palace also boasts incredible views, combining elegance with Moorish architecture. For a more boutique option, Casa 1800 Granada ( where I also stayed ) provides a cozy atmosphere near the city center, just a short walk from the Alhambra.

For budget-friendly options, you can check the Albaicin area for the best value apartment rentals, many with beautiful views! My favourite go to place is Lime Home Apartments (I stayed there twice, check photos here and here ).

Day 4: Granada to Ronda

Distance : 179 km

Drive Time: 2 hours

On day four, head out in the morning and drive to the dramatic cliffside town of Ronda, in the heart of Andalusia.

Ronda is a beautiful traditional Andalusian town with a dramatic location, sitting on the edge of an El Tajo gorge, which cuts the town in half. The famous bridge of Puente Nuevo connects the two parts of the town and serves as the main attraction.

Ronda has a long history of bullfighting, so don’t forget to explore the historic Plaza de Toros , one of Spain’s oldest bullrings. There is also a small museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting. Visit the Mondragón Palace for insights into the town’s Moorish past and also don’t miss the Arab Baths , well-preserved ruins from the 13th century.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon sipping a glass of wine and enjoying a dinner with a view of the gorge or the beautiful countryside of Ronda.

Ronda: Guided Walking Tour

Where to Eat in Ronda

For lunch, try Tragata Restaurant , a highly recommended spot for delicious tapas.

In the evening, enjoy a meal at Restaurante Santa Pola , which offers traditional Andalusian dishes and great views.

If you have some time left in the afternoon, I highly recommend a trip to Setenil de las Bodegas . This small village is famous for homes carved into rocks, and huge cliffs just hanging over the streets. It’s a sight you shouldn’t miss! Setenil is only about 20 minute’s drive from Ronda.

Where to Stay in Ronda

For a luxurious stay, consider Parador de Ronda , offering breathtaking views of the El Tajo gorge.

If you’re looking for boutique charm, you can try Hotel Montelirio , known for its historic architecture and cozy atmosphere. For budget-conscious, Hotel Ronda provides comfort in a central location. To experience the local countryside, consider staying at a rural guesthouse, such as La Perla Blanca , a peaceful retreat surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.

Day 5: Ronda to Marbella

Distance : 63 km

Drive Time: 1 hour

Marbella is a very popular holiday hotspot on Costa del Sol, favored by celebrities and locals alike.

It’s a place where you get a taste of everything – whether you prefer a traditional charming white village, flashy shopping district with a megayacht marina, or a beach destination with excellent beach clubs and nightlife – Marbella has it all.

Spend your morning by having a relaxing walk on the Paseo Maritimo promenade, head to Marbella old town for lunch and exploring (check out Farm Restaurant in old town ), and leave some time to explore the flashy district of Puerto Banus .

Where to Eat in Marbella

Marbella is one of the cities I visit very often, so I have a few favourite restaurants that I like to return to. You can check them out with photos here .

Marbella is one of the places that you can explore at a slow pace, and it doesn’t have that many attractions to tick off from your box.

If you fancy filling your time with more activities, I recommend a short 30-minute drive to visit the  Bioparc in Fuengirola , check out the  Sohail Castle , and stop for a drink in a chiringuito.

For those who prefer more outdoor experiences, you can hike the El Concha mountain or book some other outdoor experiences with a guide here:

• Guadalmina River Guided Canyoing Adventure
• Off Road Quad Bike Tour
• Sunset Cruise from Puerto Banus

Where to Stay in Marbella

Here are some top hotel recommendations for your stay in Marbella:

Marbella Club Hotel : A luxurious beachfront resort offering elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a private beach. Perfect for a tranquil and high-end experience.

Puente Romano Beach Resort : Known for its Mediterranean-style village setting, this resort offers tennis courts, fine dining, and direct beach access. Popular with celebrities.

Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella : An adults-only beachfront hotel ideal for a modern, chic getaway with a rooftop bar and beach club.

Day 6: Pueblos Blancos

On day six, take a scenic drive back towards Malaga and visit two beautiful Pueblos Blancos on your way.

First up, just north in the hills above Marbella, you will find the beautiful villages of Ojen . A sleepy little town with one main attraction – caves with views! (see photos below)

You won’t need more than a couple of hours to explore Ojen , so stay for lunch on the main village square, and after that, head towards Mijas Pueblo.

In Mijas Pueblo , head straight to the heart of the town to explore the white-washed streets, pretty churches and squares with tapas restaurants. For the best views (see photo below), head to the park at the edge of the town, and for something a little different, check out the local bullring – unique in shape and said to be the smallest one in Spain!

After you tick off two of these beautiful towns, I recommend heading to Malaga to stay there overnight and explore the city the next day.

Where to Eat

In Ojen, all of the small restaurants on the main square by the church have a great selection of tapas at very reasonable prices.

In Mijas Pueblo, my go-to place is a small local cafe near the bullring called Blue Bike Cafe , loved by locals and tourists alike.

On your way to Malaga, you can stop in Fuengirola, which is just 15 minutes from Mijas Pueblo. Fuengirola has a beautiful beach promenade stretching over 7 km, so it’s a great place to take some time to chill on the beach.

The main attractions in the city are the Bioparc (like a zoo but better!) and the Sohail Castle.

Where to Stay in Malaga

Malaga has plenty of options for both luxury and also budget travelers. To save time on commuting, I recommend staying in the area of the old town, which will allow you to walk to all the main attractions.

For luxury, the Gran Hotel Miramar offers stunning beachfront views, a spa, and a rooftop pool (I stayed there myself, you can check my review here ). For a more boutique experience, Room Mate Valeria is centrally located near the port, blending style with comfort.

Budget travelers will appreciate Hotel Sur Málaga , a charming and affordable option in the heart of the city. For those looking to stay in the historic district, Molina Lario provides modern amenities with easy access to key attractions like the Alcazaba and Málaga Cathedral.

Day 7: Malaga

On your final day, leave some time to explore the coastal capital of Costa del Sol – Malaga.

If you stay in the old town, you can reach the main attractions – Alcazaba , Picasso Museum and Gibralfaro – easily on foot! Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful streets of Malaga old town and check out the most popular shopping street, Calle Larios, to get some souvenirs before you head back home.

Picasso Museum Tickets:

Where to Eat in Malaga

A few local favorites in Malaga include El Pimpi, Pez Lola and La Casa Lola. For other recommendations, I recommend this food and travel blog.

Renting a Car in Southern Spain

Now the most important question – where to rent a car and when?

First, I recommend that you secure your car rental as soon as you have your flights. Especially in the main holiday season, if you book it early, it will save you quite a bit of money.

To get the best deals on your car rental, you can contact local companies to get a quote, or you can use a price comparison site to find one.

Discover Cars is the one I recommend. It’s an award-winning car rental comparison site that will source deals and offers from local companies so you can find the perfect car for you in seconds.

The site is very easy to use, and you can use lots of different filters if you have specific requirements for the type of car you want. The small print details are clear and easy to see for each of the options, so you will be confident knowing how much are you paying and for what exactly.

A lot of companies will charge extra for GPS – you shouldn’t pay for it, it’s not necessary at all. If you don’t want to use your mobile data to navigate from your phone, I recommend installing an app called Waze, which is excellent for navigating local traffic and works without mobile data.

Practical Travel Tips for Driving in Spain

Spain is a safe country to drive in, and the roads are in very good condition, with clear signs everywhere.

Traffic drives on the right side of the road, and speed limits are listed in kilometers per hour.

In cities, be aware of narrow streets and pedestrian zones where traffic may be restricted. I personally always try to leave the car somewhere on the edge of the old town, for example and prefer walking as it is often much faster than navigating the traffic by car.

Another reason to consider the above is the fact that parking in the city center can be tricky, especially if you’re visiting smaller towns which do not have too many central parking facilities. Always check where you want to park before you’re heading out, and don’t count on finding a free spot on the streets.

Toll roads (autopistas) are common, especially on major highways, so keep some cash or a credit card handy. You can easily spot whether the road is a toll road if it has the letter P in it (as in ‘paid’). So A-7 is the free highway, but the AP-7 that runs alongside it is a toll road. If you want to calculate the cost of the toll for your trip, you can use this free toll calculator – it also estimates the cost of your petrol.

Fuel stations are widely available, but it’s a good idea to fill up before heading into rural areas. Lastly, always carry your driver’s license, passport, and car rental documents when driving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this Southern Spain road trip itinerary and found lots of ideas on how to plan your trip!

With this 7-day itinerary, you’ll be able to explore Andalusia’s most iconic cities and landscapes while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of having your own car.

Whether you’re marveling at the Alhambra in Granada, savoring tapas in Seville, or relaxing on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, this trip will definitely be an unforgettable adventure.

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Hi, I'm Lucia

At Viva La Vita, I will help you to discover Southern Spain like a local!

I've been living on Costa del Sol since 2020, and fill these pages with first-hand insights, personal experience and practical tips that will help you plan a wonderful trip to Spain. Make yourself at home and find the best places to explore in Andalusia and beyond.

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10 Days in Andalusia Itinerary: the Best of Sunny Southern Spain

Planning a trip to southern Spain? This is the ultimate 10 day road trip itinerary for Andalusia.

This southern Spain itinerary takes you to the best and most beautiful cities and towns in Andalusia . You’ll discover the top must visit attractions, historic landmarks, and magnificent UNESCO sites.

I loved every stop on my last solo trip to sunny Andalusia. Full disclosure, it was February, so beach lounging was out of the question.

Nonetheless, I had an amazing trip, without the usual crowds. And I’m ready to hand over what I thought was a smashing 10 day itinerary for southern Spain.

This Andalusia itinerary is a well-balanced blend of must see hotspots, hidden gems, tiny whitewashed villages, and natural wonders.

When you think of Andalusia, fiestas, siestas, flamenco, bullfighting, and tapas come to mind. And, though they’re stereotypes, there’s some truth to them.

Tips For Driving in Andalusia

I flew into beautiful Seville and worked my way east, flying out of Granada . But you could just as easily reverse the direction and start in Granada. Starting in Seville meant that I didn’t need a car the first few days.

By far the best way to see Andalusia is by car. That way, you’re not limited by bus or train schedules and you can stop wherever you want. A car is the gift of freedom.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

To be safe, you should have an International Driving Permit, just in case you’re pulled over. And rent the smallest car possible.

Medieval streets, parking garages, and on street parking can sometimes be a challenge. Or even a real headache.

The highways in Andalusia are extremely good. Just be sure to park on the outskirts of any small towns you’re visiting, so you’re not stuck in a labyrinthian maze of narrow medieval streets.

Google maps worked well for me. I’m directionally challenged and only got lost a tiny bit in Granada.

Overview of Andalusia Road Trip

I had three bases: Seville (4 nights), Ronda (2 nights), and Granada (4 nights). I really dislike moving every day.

From those bases, I blitzed around seeing adorable white pueblos, dazzling palaces, Game of Thrones sites, and the natural wonders of Andalusia.

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for a self drive road trip from Seville to Granada. You don’t need to pick up your rental car until day 5 when you head to Ronda.

• Day 1 : Seville
• Day 2 : Seville
• Day 3 : Seville
• Day 4 : Train to Cordoba
• Day 5 : Drive To Ronda with Stops at Osuna and Grazalema
• Day 6 : Ronda
• Day 7 : Drive To Granada, stopping in Antequera
• Day 8 : Granada
• Day 9 : Granada
• Day 10 : Day trip to Guadix
• More Time in Spain? Head north to Madrid

I skipped Malaga. It’s hard to do everything with only 10 days in Andalusia.

And it was far less appealing to me — big city, lots of expats, and a cruise ship stop. Though I would have liked to see the Picasso Museum there.

I stayed or stopped in 10 towns: Seville, Cordoba, Osuna, Grazalema, Ronda, Antequera, Granada, Nerja, Frigiliana, and Guadix. I spent the most time in sunny Sevilla, which was sunny even in February.

Where To Stay in Andalusia

You can either stay in Air BnBs or hotels in southern Spain. I’ve done both.

Here are hotel recommendations for the bases on this 10 day itinerary. I put a * by my #1 recommendation.

Seville : * Hotel Alfonso XIII , Hotel Colon Gran Melia ,  Suites Machado , Hotel Casa del Poeta ,   Hotel Casa 1800 Seville ,  EME Catedral Hotel

Ronda : Parador de Ronda , Catalonia Ronda , Hotel Molino del Arco , * Hotel Montelirio

Granada : Eurostars Catedral , Catalonia Granada , * Hospes Palacio de los Patos , Hotel Alhambra Palace

10 Days in Andalusia Itinerary

Let’s dive right in to how to spend 10 days in Andalusia.

Day 1: Seville’s Main Attractions

Use the beautiful city of Sevilla as you base for the first 4 nights.

Seville is amazing. It’s a seductive mix of Mudéjar palaces, ornate baroque churches, colorful tiles, and winding cobblestone lanes. There’s a romance to it. I fell in love immediately.

To be fair, I think there are ways that Seville can be a PITA. I list them here . But on the whole, it was glorious.

On day one, head to the city’s historic center to take in Seville Cathedral, the incredible Royal Alcazar, and the Plaza de España.

You can walk most places in Seville fairly easily. But the hop on hop off bus tour is also a good option.

1. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is a massive Gothic affair. It’s the third largest cathedral in the world and a UNESCO site to boot.

The sheer scale of the building is impressive. There are 15 doors on the cathedral’s four facades and each one features a unique relief or carving. The nave is the longest in the world.

The high altar is elaborately detailed and finished in gold leaf. Along the sides, there are 80 chapels to explore. The cathedral houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Be sure to climb up the Giralda bell tower for spectacular views. The entrance is in a corner of the cathedral. Click here for skip the line tickets and a guided tour of the cathedral and bell tower.

2. Royal Alcazar

Next, head to the Royal Alcazar , one of the top attractions in Seville . It’s a breathtaking 10th century palace that King Pedro gave a 14th century Mudéjar facelift.

The Alcázar is really one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures — a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colors.

The Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a residence of the Spanish Royal family. It’s even a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones . It has exquisite tile work and over the top intricate Islamic architecture.

Inside, the highlights are the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Courtyard of the Dolls, and the Hall of Tapestries in the Gothic Palace.

The Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, is the big showstopper in the palace. It’s mind blowing.

The room is nicknamed the “Half Orange” Room. It sports a fantastical gilded cedar domed ceiling. Encrusted with gold and mirrors, the dome represents the heavens.

Outside, there’s a series of verdant lush gardens. Don’t miss the Baths of Maria De Padilla, King Pedro’s mistress. The baths are one of the Alcazar’s Game of Thrones filming locations , a place where the Sand Snakes plot.

I advise purchasing tickets online well in advance. Even in February, I had a half hour wait in line. If you’d also like a guided tour, which you may for this fantastic place, click here for a 1.5 hour guided tour.

The Alcazar was my very favorite place in all of Andalusia. Here’s my complete guide to the magnificent Royal Alcazar .

3. Plaza de España

Later, spend the early evening checking out the Plaza de España .

The plaza is one of the famous architectural landmarks in Seville. It stands out in a city already overflowing with beautiful architecture.

It was built for the Ibero-American World Fair of 1929, where Spanish speaking countries enjoyed a year long mutual admiration festival.

The park’s highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, the sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings.

Day 2: More of Seville’s Top Attractions

Cross the Puente de Isabel II bridge over the Guadalquivir River, and you’ll land in the colorful Triana neighborhood.

It’s a small soulful village and the old gypsy quarter of Seville.

Triana was once considered the “wrong side” of the river. Now, its the fun and funky part of Seville.

And it is THE place to buy ceramics. And, I was told, the best place to se flamenco.

2. Metropol Parasol

Next, visit Metropol Parasol.

The ultramodern Metropol Parasol was built between 2005-11 by German architect Jürgen Mayer to revitalize the run down Encarnacion Square.

It’s called “the Mushrooms” due to its quirky waffle-like shape, inspired by the vaults of the Seville Cathedral.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket and guided tour.

3. Barrio Santa Cruz

Spend the late afternoon amidst the orange trees and tapas bars in Barrio Santa Cruz. Barrio Santa Cruz was once Seville’s old Jewish quarter.

It’s a popular district within the city — a mass of tangled cobbled streets with tiny palazzos and tile covered patios. There’s a mouth watering array of tapas bars and restaurants.

Some streets are so impossibly narrow, they’re called “kissing lanes.” I especially liked Plaza Dona Elvira.

4. Tapas Tour

In the evening, I recommend going on a Devour Seville “Tapas, Taverns & History” tour that evening. The tour was fun and has 5 star reviews.

You’ll get nummy tapas and nuggets of history.

The Sevillanos adore very sweet drinks, including something called “orange wine.”

Day 3: Round Up of Seville Attractions

1. museum of fine arts.

On your last day in Seville, your first port of call is the Museo de Bellas Artes , or Museum of Fine Arts. It opens at 9:00 am.

It’s one of Spain’s best art museums . The museum is quite lovely and crowd free to boot.

The museum is known, after the Madrid’s Prado Museum , as the “second art gallery in Spain.” It’s housed in a lovely salmon colored former convent.

The museum has art from the middle ages to the 20th century. But it’s mostly known for its collection of 17th century art from Spain’s Golden Age.

The museum has work by Spain’s top painters, including Zurbarán, Murillo, El Greco, and Diego Velazquez. You’ll see a lot of monks, balding saints, cherubs, and depictions of Christ.

The museum also has a goodly collection by the Baroque star Murillo. (You can also Murillo’s works at Seville Cathedral.)

Murillo achieved fame and recognition from his religious portraits. But he also left behind some fascinating work of everyday people and street life.

2. Casas de Pilatos

Then, pay a visit to Casa de Pilatos . The casa is a glorious, sumptuous 16th century mansion in Seville’s historic district.

It’s about a 15 minute walk from the Cathedral. The palace was declared a national monument in 1931.

Casa de Pilatos is a beautiful Neo-Mudejar mansion. The palace is overflowing with mosaics, beautiful tile, and sculptures.

A highlight is the courtyard. it’s surrounded by a gallery formed by white marble columns with Mudejar arches.

Inside, there are 24 busts of Spanish kings, Roman emperors, and other characters gracing niches in the walls, which were collected from the ruins of Italica. Click here for tickets.

3. Basilica of the Macarena

In evening, wander north to see the Basilica de la Macarena and the “weeping virgin” in the north end of Seville. The Macarena is a bit off center.

It’s on the north end of Seville’s city center. But it’s definitely worth a detour.

The basilica is also known as the Church of the Virgin of Hope of Lady Macarena. It’s a showy bright yellow Neo-Baroque Church. It houses Seville’s favorite “weeping virgin,”  La Macarena .

After visiting the church, stroll along the river to the Torre del Oro. It’s a pretty tower, but you don’t need to go inside.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cordoba

On day 4 of my 10 days in Andalusia, take the train to Cordoba for the day. You can also book a day trip tour from Seville, to make things easier.

I loved Cordoba. It’s a natural film set, it’s just so beautiful. Here’s my one day itinerary for Cordoba for reference.

Cordoba has an authentic Spanish vibe with fewer tourists than Seville. The town definitely deserves more than one day. Still, I saw quite a bit in the 9 hours I was there.

Start with Cordoba’s #1 site, the Mezquita , the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. Dating from the 10th century, it’s a UNESCO site and one of the world’s most well- preserved Islamic buildings.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted it into a cathedral, calling it the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption.

I expected the combination to be discordant and perplexing. But I found the place fascinating, a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed.

You walk in from a courtyard of orange trees through the Porta de las Palmas. You’re immediately in a forest of candy cane horseshoe arches. A highlight is the Mihrab, or high altar in a mosque.

The Renaissance cathedral is built right in the center, sharing marble and space with the Islamic arches. The vaulted ceilings are stunning. Be sure to go up the bell tower for spectacular views of the city.

Click here to book a ticket and guided tour of the Mezquita.

But there’s much more to Cordoba than the Mezquita. Just downhill from the Mezquita is the Guadalquivir River. Cross the stunning Roman Bridge, which is both a UNESCO site and Game of Thrones filming location.

Stroll around the narrow streets of the charming old Jewish Quarter. Skip the Instagram popular Calleja de las Flores, or just stroll by.

It’s overrated and crammed with tourists. There are beautiful flowers and patios everywhere in Cordoba.

Go into the Jewish synagogue, say hello to the statue of Maimonides. Visit the beautiful Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. This Alcazar can’t hold a candle to Seville’s Royal Alcazar, but I thought it was still worth a visit.

I had a late lunch in the courtyard of an adorable cafe in the Jewish Quarter, El Rincon de Carmen, which I would definitely recommend.

If you don’t want to walk around Cordoba, you can also take the hop on hop off bus tour .

Day 5: Drive To Ronda with Stops at Osuna and Grazalema

On day 5, pick up your rental car on the way out of Seville and head to the tourist-fly popular town Ronda for “bridge porn.”

On the way, I stop in the charming white pueblo towns of Osuna and Grazalema.

Osuna surprised me. I visited the town for its dashing bullring, which is one of Andalusia’s Game of Thrones filming locations .

But Osuna itself was beyond adorable. It’s a charming white pueblo village with a rich architectural and cultural heritage.

There’s row upon row of white stucco homes and streets dotted with orange trees. Osuna’s a vertitable art gallery, with all its Renaissance and Baroque churches.

UNESCO lists Osuna’s main drag, the Call San Pedro, as the second most beautiful street in Europe . Osuna was declared a Historic-Artistic site in 1967.

2. Grazelema

Next up is Grazalema. It’s a pretty mountain village of Roma origin. It’s completely different than Osuna, more wild.

It lays in the valley of Sierra de Grazalema, splashed with whitewashed homes and surrounded by olive trees.

I was there in February, so there was even a sprinkling of snow. I paused in the main square, the Plaza de España, which is lined with bars and restaurants, for a late lunch.

3. Zahara de la Sierra

Depending on time, you can also visit Zahara de la Sierra, right next door to Grazalema.

Like Grazalema, it’s streets are white, immaculate, and fairly deserted. You can climb to the Tower of Tribute for views.

Day 6: Ronda: Hemingway’s “Romantic Background”

Only 40 minutes from Grazalema, Ronda is vastly more popular. It’s the third most visited town in Andalusia.

And there’s a a reason — it’s dramatic. Ronda is Andalusia’s great cliff hanger. It’s perched on a mountainous gash carved by the Río Guadalevín.

Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo.

The bridge connects the two parts of the town over the 328 feet El Tajo gorge. You can hike to the bottom of the gorge for great views.

Aside from the bridge, Ronda is pretty adorable. There are plenty of cozy town squares, cobblestone alleys, terraces everywhere, and lovely architecture.

You can visit the Mondragón Palace, the Arabic Baths, and the Bullring (Spain’s oldest one) if you’re feeling ambitious.

I made this a lazy, laid back day, after a fairly hectic schedule. I like to have a more relaxed day halfway through a road trip. Ronda fit the bill perfectly.

Day 7: Drive from Ronda to Granada, Stopping in Antequera

On day 7, make your way to Granada . En route, take a break and stop in the white pueblo town of Antequera . Like Osuna, Antequera surprised me.

I came to inspect the UNESCO dolmens. They are a fairly new site just listed in 2016.

But I absolutely fell in love with the town itself. Antequera is known as the “Florence of Andalusia.” And, unlike Ronda, I had the place mostly to myself. Antequera is really a must visit destination in Andalucia.

Antequera boasts ancient UNESCO megaliths , an impressive Moorish fortress, a lovely Renaissance church, and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

Antequera’s ancient megaliths were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. The megaliths, or dolmens, are definitely an under appreciated UNESCO site, perhaps because it’s so new.

The Bronze Age dolmens are among the oldest things on the planet. They’re essentially Spain’s Stonehenge. The dolmens were discovered between 1903-05 by the brothers Antonio and José Viera of Antequera.

If you’re a ruin luster, you should definitely see them. They are just outside the town. Signs will direct you there.

You can book a guided walking tour of Antequera or a tour of the dolmens .

Day 8: Granada: The Alhambra and Barrio Sacramonte

On day 8 of your 10 day southern Spain itienrary, you land in the beautiful city of Granada.

1. Alhambra

Start your day in Granada at one of the most famous landmarks in Spain , the mighty Alhambra. The Alhambra is the world’s last and greatest Moorish fortress.

To visit, you need to pre-purchase tickets well in advance. You may want to pre-book a ticket and guided tour to enrich your visit.

The Alhambra sits on a stunning piece of real estate. It’s in a high, mountainous location on Sabika Hill. it boasts sweeping views over Granada and the surrounding countryside.

In the Moorish tradition, the Alhambra is decorated with water: “standing still, cascading, masking secret conversations, and drip-dropping playfully.”

Alhambra became a UNESCO site in 1984. It’s a deeply affecting place. It’s so beautiful and enchanting, it’s difficult to process. Or to unglue your camera from your face.

The most beautiful spot is the Nasrid Palace. When you buy your Alhambra ticket, you’ll be given a specific time to visit this particular palace.

Make sure you get in line at the right time. Or they won’t let you in.

There are no words to describe the breathtaking Moorish architecture of the Nasrid Palaces.

At every turn there is exquisite craftsmanship and/or a stunning view. The Court of the Lions and the Court of the Myrtles are highlight.

For more information, here’s my comprehensive guide to visiting the Alhambra .

2. Granada’s Historic Old Town

Once you’ve drooled over the Nasrid Palace and relived history in the Alcazaba, it’s time to explore Granada itself.

I didn’t know I would love Granada before I arrived — a common theme of my Andalusia trip apparently. But Granada unexpectedly swept me away with its authentic Spanish vibe and dazzling attractions.

Lorded over by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it’s an absolutely beautiful ancient city. There is scad of historic architecture, including a massive Gothic cathedral.

Granada also boasts many atmospheric neighborhoods, each with an earthy distinct character.

3. Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel

Granada Cathedral is a massive affair. It’s the second largest cathedral in Spain after Seville Cathedral and the fourth largest cathedral in the world.

It was built by Queen Isabella after the conquest of Granada. Construction began in 1518. It took over 180 years to complete.

The cathedral’s a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The chief architect was Alonso Cano, who took over in 1652. Inside, there’s a towering interior, a grand altar, and side chapels.

You’ll also want to visit the Royal Chapel. It’s connected to the cathedral, but has a separate entrance and admission fee. You can book a combined skip the line ticket and tour for both sites.

This is where you’ll find the ornate marble tombs of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The Sacristy Museum also holds treasures, relics, and paintings.

4. Granada’s Sacromonte Neighborhood

That night, I recommend taking a walking tour at sunset to the otherworldly Sacromonte neighborhood.

Sacromonte feels disconnected from the city. Yet, it sports one of the most mesmerizing views of the Alhambra.

For centuries, Sacromonte was the home of gypsies, bohemians, artists, and foreign refuges. And they still live in the rustic caves.

Day 9: Nerja and Frigiliana

Craving some ocean air? Drive south toward the Costa del Sol to visit Nerja and Frigiliana. You can visit both towns on a guided day trip from Granada .

Nerja is a lovely town on the Costa del Sol, the beauty playground of southern Spain. The heart of Nerja is its beautiful Balcony of Europe.

The balcony is a palm-lined promontory. It was built not he foundation of an old fort.

The balcony juts out like a natural pier and offers panoramic views of the cobalt blue sea and honey colored coast.

There are plenty of other amazing things to do in Nerja , including hitting Burriana Beach.

2. Nerja Caves

After visiting the town, head to Nerja Caves for a real adventure. The caves are situated on the slopes of the Sierra Almijara, just outside of Nerja.

The caves are about five kilometers long. They were once inhabited by the Stone Age hunters. The caves weren’t discovered until 1959.

On a tour, you’ll see rock formations, stalagmites, stalactites and subtle shifting colors. A guided visit lasts around 45 minutes.

3. Frigiliana

Just 15 minutes from Nerja by car is Frigiliana . Of all the beautiful towns in Andalusia, it might be the most beautiful of all.

In Frigiliana, everything is beautiful in a way that it almost never is. Frigiliana is a spotless, secluded, perfectly coifed cliff town dressed in blue and white with flowing orange and purple vines and potted blood red geraniums. Just dreamy.

And after visiting numerous moorish fortresses, cathedrals and other “must see” Andalusian sights, I was incredibly relieved that there was no major sites in Frigiliana. I wandered the pretty cobbled streets guilt free, enjoying the views.

I was ready to just sink in the Moorish beauty and Spanish countryside. Oh, and meander into ceramic shops, purchasing some lovely items to bring home.

Day 10: Day Trip to Guadix & Granada’s Albaicín Neighborhood

The next day I took a short half day trip to the unique cathedral town of Guadix.

The town is very off the beaten path destination in Andalucia. It’s only 45 minutes from Granada, so it’s an easy day trip,

I went mostly to see the house caves or “cuevas.” Guadix’s inhabitants live in caves, with whitewashed chimneys set against the mountains.

Guadix also has a charming old town and a 16th century cathedral worth visiting. It’s also famous for its earthenware pottery.

Back in Granada later, spend the late afternoon and evening wandering in the old Arab neighborhood of the Albaicín, or Albayzín.

Built on a steep hill, its an ancient area with tight tangled winding streets and a bohemian feel. It’s probably my favorite area in Granada.

The Albaicín was declared a UNESCO site in 1984. Amidst a jasmine scented breeze, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, tapas bars, and even street performers.

You can  book a guided walking tour  of the neighborhood or take a DIY stroll.

More Time in Spain?

If you have more than 10 days in Spain, head north to see a completely different side of Spain. To the north are Spain’s other great cities, Madrid and Barcelona . You’ll also find secret medieval towns, the Costa Brava, and Green Spain .

If you need some destination inspiration, here’s my guide to six one week itineraries in Spain .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Andalusia itinerary. Here are some of my Spain travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
• Landmarks in Spain
• Hidden Gems in Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary From Barcelona to Bilbao
• 3 Day Itinerary for Barcelona
• 40+ Landmarks in Barcelona
• 2 Day Itinerary for Bilbao
• Most Beautiful Places in Andalusia
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid To Seville
• 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
• Best Museums in Spain

If you’d like to road trip in southern Spain, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on February 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

South Spain Itinerary: Best 7 Days in Andalucia

Welcome to your guide for the ultimate South Spain itinerary.

After living in this region for over three years, I’ve explored the area extensively . This 7 day Andalucia itinerary gives you insider tips and knowledge based on my first-hand experiences of the beauty that South Spain has to offer.

From beautiful cities to iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes , I guarantee you’ll love this itinerary for southern Spain. I tell you exactly how to see all the best places to visit in South Spain with practicality in mind. Ready? Let’s go!

Some of the links on Meet Me In Departures are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

Southern Spain itinerary

Although this south of Spain itinerary is fast-paced, it allows you to see the very best highlights Andalucia offers . 

You could easily spend more than a week in Southern Spain, however, if you’re limited by time but still want to experience the beauty and culture of Andalucia, this is the perfect itinerary for you.

Top 5 Places To Visit In Southern Spain

• The Alhambra Complex, Granada
• Real Alcazar, Seville
• Seville Cathedral and Giralda
• The Mezquita – The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
• Puente Nuevo, Ronda

7 Day Andalucia Road Trip – Know Before You Go

So, you’ve decided to do a southern Spain itinerary for 7 days – great!  This section covers some practical considerations you’ll want to think about before you go.

Let’s delve into the essential information about planning a trip to Andalucia

When to Visit Southern Spain

The best time to visit Spain is generally during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). This is when the climate is more comfortable.

Summers can be scorching hot, especially in inland cities like Seville and Cordoba, making sightseeing quite challenging. Additionally, the summer months coincide with peak tourist season , meaning larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

For the best experience, I recommend late autumn or early spring.

You could even plan your southern Spain 1 week itinerary for the winter – they are usually mild compared to northern Europe , though the nights can be chilly so pack accordingly.

How to Get to Andalucía

This one week in Andalucía itinerary starts and finishes in the Andalucian capital of Seville . However, there are several convenient airports you can consider.

✈️ The two primary airports within Andalucía are:

• Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) : Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, this airport is the biggest in southern Spain and is well-connected to most major cities in Europe. It’s approximately 2 hours by car or bus from Seville.
• Seville Airport (SVQ) : This airport is smaller than Málaga’s but still offers a decent number of connections to other European cities. It’s located around 15 minutes outside the city centre.

For those who initially arrive at Madrid Airport (MAD), you have the option to catch the high-speed train, known as AVE, that will whisk you to Seville in just a couple of hours.

How to Get around Andalucía

The best way to travel around Andalucia is by car.

That said, there are plenty of affordable and reliable public transport options – this itinerary could be done using the regional bus and trains, however, factor in connection times between cities. Also, to get the best prices, I recommend booking train and bus tickets in advance .

• Driving in southern Spain is relatively easy, with well-maintained highways and major roads connecting most cities.
• Parking in cities can be a challenge so opt for accommodation with parking.
• Renfe is the national train company in Spain and operates trains between most major cities within Andalucía.
• The high-speed AVE train also connects Seville to Madrid in just under 2.5 hours – this is great if your flight arrives here.
• The regional bus system in Andalucía is extensive and can be a budget-friendly option for travelling between cities.
• Alsa and Socibus are two major companies that operate routes throughout the region.

👉 A great way to check and compare bus and train times is via the Omio App . You also get the ticket sent straight to your phone so there’s no need to print things out.

Renting a Car in Andalucia

Like I mentioned before, this Andalucia one week itinerary is best done by car.

There are plenty of rental car places in Seville, which is where I recommend you start and finish.

In Seville, the majority of the car rental places are either at the Airport or around Santa Justa – the main train station.

There’s a mix of local and international agencies – I’ve used both and overall had good experiences with them. The important thing is to make an early reservation to secure better rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

One Week South of Spain Road Trip Itinerary 

Ready to discover the best Southern Spain itinerary?

7 Days in Andalucia Trip Itinerary

• Day 1 & 2: Seville
• Day 3: Córdoba
• Day 4 & 5: Granada and the Alhambra
• Day 6: Malaga 
• Day 6 Alternative Option: El Caminito del Rey Hike
• Day 7: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos Before Returning to Seville

Southern Spain Road Trip Map

This south Spain road trip map shows the basic route (if you’re driving), as well as everything I mention in this Andalusia itinerary. 

Click on it to open the interactive version.

South of Spain Itinerary Day 1 & 2: Seville

This itinerary for southern Spain starts and finishes in the Andalucian capital of Seville.

Seville is often hailed as one of the best cities in southern Spain, with its fascinating history, UNESCO monuments and vibrant street life.

With two days in Seville, you’ll get to see the highlights that the city offers.

Day 1: The Historic Heart  

Start your morning at the Royal Alcazar (Real = Royal in Spanish).

This ornately decorated palace with beautiful gardens is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Some of the highlights here are the Courtyard of Maidens, the Hall of Ambassadors and the Baths of Maria de Padilla.

Next head over to Seville Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of this site date back to when Seville was under Moorish rule – the site was originally a mosque – after the Christians conquered Seville, it was then converted into a cathedral – the Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in the world and home to Christopher Colombus’s tomb.

Make sure to go up to La Giralda bell tower. This iconic Spanish landmark is the symbol of the city – this used to be the minaret for the old mosque. From the top, you’ll have amazing views over Seville.

In the afternoon, explore Barrio Santa Cruz. This is the old Jewish Quarter of Seville and is filled with picturesque streets, plazas and orange trees.

If you still have some time, then join a food tour to get acquainted with Andalucian cuisine , so you’ll know what to look out for during the rest of your trip. 

In the evening, watch a local Flamenco show at one of Seville’s traditional tablaos or tapas bars.

📍 Save Time and Money 📍

Book a combination ticket for entry to the Royal Alcazar, Seville Cathedral and Giralda

Day 2: The Splendor of Seville  

Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Exhibition, showcases Seville’s Renaissance revival architecture. The building features a grand, semi-circular complex decorated with colourful tiles, bridges and a large central fountain – along with the Giralda, this is another landmark you’ll want to add to your Seville bucket list !

Next to Plaza de España is Maria Luisa Park. These beautiful gardens are filled with fountains, pavilions, gigantic trees and exotic flora – listen out for the squawky little parakeets flying overhead.

In the afternoon, head to Metropol Parasol – also known as Las Setas (The Mushrooms) due to its unique mushroom-like structure. This piece of modern architecture is the largest wooden structure in the world and features a walkway around the top. 

End your day with a visit to some of the city’s fabulous rooftop bars with views of the cathedral and Giralda lit up at night – ideally with a glass of local wine in hand.

An alternative plan, if you’re into Roman ruins, is to take the short ride out 8km north of Seville to Italica. This is one of the easiest places to visit near Seville , and a regular bus goes from Plaza de Armas station and drops right outside Italica. The journey takes just over half an hour.

👉 Looking for a more detailed guide to Seville?

Best Seville Itinerary (by a local!) with Map & Tips

Best Things to See In Seville

• The Royal Alcázar of Seville
• Seville Cathedral
• Barrio Santa Cruz
• Flamenco Show
• Plaza de España
• Maria Luisa Park
• Metropol Parasol
• Cathedral Rooftop Bars

Where to Stay in Seville (2 Nights)

5* Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville

✅ Iconic Historic Building

✅ Gym & Swimming Pool

✅ 3x Onsite Restaurants and Terraces

Petit Palace Vargas

✅ Modren Decor

✅ Excellent Breakfast

✅ Central Location

South of Spain Itinerary Day 3: Córdoba

Start your day early, pick up your rental car, and then leave Seville. You will be able to see the main highlights of Cordoba in one day .

The second stop for your one week in Southern Spain is the charming city of Córdoba. Córdoba is known for its stunning architecture and diverse history.

This is another city in southern Spain where the Moors left their mark. The main highlight in Cordoba is the magnificent Mezquita – a mosque turned cathedral that showcases both Islamic and Christian influences in its design.

Inside you’ll see a beautiful prayer hall with over 850 columns, arched with red and white brickwork, intricate mosaic patterns and a stunning mihrab (prayer niche).

After exploring the Mosque-Cathedral , continue your day in Cordoba and wander through the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, known as Judería. This charming neighbourhood is filled with charming white-washed buildings and hidden courtyards. It’s also home to the famous flower-lined street, Calleja de las Flores.

Finish the afternoon with a visit to the stunning Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval palace filled with beautiful gardens, fountains and courtyards. After, walk over the Roman Bridge for beautiful views of the city lit up at night.

👉 Insider Tip: If you’re lucky enough to visit Cordoba in May, you’ll get to experience the vibrant Los Patios festival. During this time, hundreds of patios and courtyards throughout the city are adorned with colourful flowers. They are mostly free to enter but will have a donation pot for local charities.

Best Things to See In Córdoba

• The Mezquita
• Jewish Quarter
• Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
• Calleja de las Flores
• Roman Bridge and Views of the City

👉 Want to learn more about visiting Cordoba?

The Perfect One Day in Cordoba Itinerary

Getting to Córdoba from Seville

Driving from Seville to Córdoba

• Distance: Approximately 140 kilometres (87 miles)
• Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Road Guidelines: Begin on the A-4 or E-5 motorway, both leading directly from Seville to Córdoba.

Using Public Transport from Seville to Córdoba

• Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Frequency: Regular high-speed AVE trains run by Renfe connect Seville and Córdoba, making it the fastest way to travel between the cities.
• Travel Time: Around 2 hours
• Providers include companies like ALSA, offering multiple trips throughout the day but taking longer than the train.

Where to Stay in Córdoba (1 Night)

Balcón de Córdoba

✅ Located in the heart of Cordoba’s historic centre

✅ Rooftop terrace with views of the Mezquita

✅ Three secluded patios for guests to relax in

Eurostars Patios de Cordoba

✅ Centrally located

✅ Set in the 12th century architectural remains

✅ Views over the Mezquita

South of Spain Itinerary Day 4 & 5: Granada and the Alhambra

No Andalucia itinerary would be worthy without a visit to the famous Alhambra – one of the most magical-looking places in Spain! Honestly, it’s outstanding, words and photos don’t do it justice.  

Start your day early and leave Cordoba.

👉 Insider Tip: To make the most out of your time in Granada – I suggest a full day dedicated to just seeing the Alhambra – because you’re travelling in the morning, I suggest booking your tickets for the Alhambra on your second day in Granada so you don’t feel as rushed.

Day 1: Neighborhood Exploration  

Spend your first day in Granada exploring the charming streets of Granada’s historic Albaicín neighbourhood. Head towards Carrera del Darro and up into the district.

Don’t miss walking up to the Mirador San Nicolas for a stunning view of the Alhambra with the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the city below. The Albaicin has a myriad of streets, cross-crossing in all directions – I spent hours here exploring. If you’re pushed for time, then join a walking tour of Albaicin to find out more about the area. 

Another great district to explore is Sacromonte – famed for its cave houses. 

Then spend the afternoon in Granada’s historic centre.

The Cathedral of Granada dominates the city centre while the Royal Chapel is home to some of Spain’s most famous Catholic monarchs.

I also recommend visiting Alcaicería – the old Silk Market. This Arabic-style bazaar reminded me of exploring the souks in Marrakech and is where you’ll find some of the best souvenirs.

In the evening head to the lower Albaicin area. The eateries here ooze with Eastern influence, so you’ll find everything like  Turkish tea, Moroccan tagines and the most delicious falafel.

Day 2: The Alhambra Complex

On your second day in Granada , dedicate all your time to visiting the Alhambra – it’s a huge site with A LOT to see.

Make sure to book tickets for the Alhambra in advance as they sell out.

The Alhambra is Spain’s second most visited attraction (the #1 spot goes to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona !) – and is 100% worthy of a place on everyone’s Spanish bucket list . It gets insanely busy so I suggest being at the gates just before it opens and visiting the popular attractions first – such as the Generalife.

Your ticket will let you enter each zone once. You’ll also get a timed slot for the Nasrid Palace.

The main highlights of the Alhambra Complex are:

• Nasrid Palaces: The palace is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with intricate carvings, colourful tiles and beautiful gardens. They are home to the stunning Court of the Lions – one of the most photographed locations in the Alhambra.
• Generalife :  Beautiful gardens, courtyards and fountains with stunning views of the Albaicín neighbourhood.
• Alcazaba : The oldest part of the Alhambra, this fortress offers incredible panoramic views of Granada and beyond.
• Charles V Palace : A Renaissance-style palace built by the Spanish king Charles V in the 16th century. It now houses the Alhambra Museum.
• Partal Gardens :  A tranquil and romantic area filled with pools, gardens and pavilions.

📍 As soon as you know your travel dates, I suggest booking tickets for the Alhambra 📍

The Alhambra is Spain’s second most visited monument – and tourists arrive by the coach load to visit it. So you can imagine it gets busy!

Best Things to See In Granada

• The Alhambra Complex
• Albayzín/ Albaicín Neighborhood
• Mirador San Nicolas
• Sacromonte Hill
• Carrera del Darro
• Cathedral and Royal Chapel
• Alcaicería Market

👉 Discover more about visiting Granada.

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Granada, Spain

Getting to Granada from Córdoba

Driving from Córdoba to Granada

• Distance: Approximately 200 kilometres (124 miles)
• Estimated Time: About 2 hours and 15 minutes
• Road Guidelines: Start on the A-45 motorway, then merge onto the A-92 heading east, which will take you directly to Granada.

Using Public Transport from Córdoba to Granada

• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Frequency: Regular high-speed AVE trains operated by Renfe make the journey
• Travel Time: Roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Providers like ALSA offer frequent services with varying schedules, affording a more economical but longer travel option compared to the train.

Where to Stay in Granada (2 Nights)

5* Haxaris Casa Boutique, Granada

✅ Full living facilities

✅ Panoramic city views

TOC Hostel, Granada

✅ Options of private or dorm rooms

✅ Onsite bar and social areas

✅ Great location close to attractions

South of Spain Itinerary Day 6: Malaga 

The next destination on your Andalusia travel itinerary brings you to Malaga, a city that blends cultural highlights and beach relaxation perfectly.

Start early to make the most of your day.

Today, you have options depending on how you’re feeling. You can choose to spend time soaking up the sun on some of the best beaches in Andalucia or dive into the city’s rich culture – after all, this is the birthplace of Picasso.

Malaga also boasts of being one of the best cities in southern Spain for excellent shopping opportunities and a vibrant nightlife scene.

If you’re up for an adventure, consider a day trip to the Caminito del Rey (I’ve included more details on that in the next section).

Best Things to See In Malaga

• The Alcazaba
• Malaga Cathedral/ La Manquita
• Picasso Museum
• Malaga Park
• Atarazanas Market
• Malagueta Beach
• Gibralfaro Castle
• Roman Theatre

Day 6 Option: El Caminito del Rey Hike

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in southern Spain then El Caminito del Rey will be right up your streak.

El Caminito del Rey is located close to Malaga so it’s an easy alternative to day 6 of this Andalucia travel itinerary.

The trail that’s steeped in history and once dubbed the “world’s most dangerous path”. It saw a series of unfortunate incidents, with several fatalities reported between 1999 and 2000.

This led to its ominous reputation and subsequent closure for safety renovations.

Today, after extensive refurbishment, the path is open to the public and safe to walk, although it still presents a thrilling challenge, especially for those with a fear of heights.

The trail clings to the side of a gorge, offering breathtaking views that are as awe-inspiring as they are vertigo-inducing.

I’ve done this trail twice – once independently, and once with a guide. Both times were great!

Check the weather forecast before you go as they sometimes close it if it’s too windy.

👉 To avoid disappointment, I suggest that you check the weather forecast before you go. It can get windy in the gorge- and one of the times I visited, they closed a section of the path because it was too dangerous – other times, if it’s particularly blustery – they close the entire trail.

Getting to Malaga from Granada

Driving from Granada to Malaga

• Distance: Approximately 125 kilometres (77 miles)
• Road Guidelines: Begin on the A-44 motorway, then connect to the A-7 towards the south, following the signs to reach Malaga.

Using Public Transport from Granada to Malaga

• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Frequency: Regular services provided by Renfe, including high-speed options, connect these two cities.
• Travel Time: Around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes
• Providers like ALSA offer multiple daily services, providing a budget-friendly travel solution with the convenience of different departure times.

Where to Stay in Malaga (1 or 2 Nights)

Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina

✅ Historical listed 1930s building

✅ Free parking

✅ Adults only

TOC Hostel, Malaga

✅ Buffet breakfast served daily

South of Spain Itinerary Day 7: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos Before Returning to Seville

On the final day of your 7 days in southern Spain itinerary, leave Malaga early and venture to Ronda, a hilltop town known for its historic bridges and spectacular views.

The main highlight here is the visually-wow structure called Puente Nuevo .

The Puente Nuevo, or New Bridge, is one of Spain’s most recognisable landmarks. It was completed in 1793 after a laborious 34-year construction period.

The bridge was a daring solution to connect the city over a 120-meter-deep canyon of El Tajo de Rona gorge.

The name ‘New Bridge’ refers to the fact that it was built to replace a previous bridge which once stood there – it collapsed, claiming the lives of 50 people.

Although you can view the bridge from street level, it’s worth taking a short walk down the gorge to see it from a different perspective  – take note that it’s a steep climb back up.

Within the small town, there are also plenty of lookout points – the most famous is Mirador de Ronda. This lookout point offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for photos.

After exploring Ronda, head to the Pueblos Blancos, or White Villages. These charming villages, with their whitewashed houses and tranquil atmosphere, offer a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life.

Some of my favourite  Pueblos Blancos near Ronda are:

• Zahara de la Sierra
• Setenil de las Bodegas (although this one can get insanely busy!)
• Arcos de la Frontera (although this is a little more of a detour)

Best Things to See In Ronda

• Puente Nuevo
• The Old Town (La Ciudad) and Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings
• Mirador de Ronda and Mirador de Aldehuela

Getting to Ronda from Malaga

Driving from Malaga to Ronda

• Distance: Approximately 102 kilometres (63 miles)
• Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Road Guidelines: Start on the AP-46 and A-357 motorways, then transition to the A-367 and A-397, which lead directly into Ronda.

Using Public Transport from Malaga to Ronda

• Travel Time: Roughly 2 hours
• Frequency: There are direct Renfe train services available, although less frequent than to other major cities, offering a scenic route into the heart of Ronda.
• Travel Time: About 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Bus companies such as Avanza provide several daily trips, making it an affordable and reliable option to reach Ronda with the benefit of experiencing the picturesque Andalusian countryside.

Extending Your Southern Spain Itinerary: Other Places to Visit in Andalucía

Like I said at the start, there are so many things to do in Southern Spain, this Andalucia itinerary in 7 days really just scratches the surface.

If you can squeeze in an extra day or so, here are some of my suggestions on what else to do in Spain :

• Gibraltar: This British territory in the south of Spain is famous for its monkeys and rock formations. This is also a great spot in Spain to see Africa from!
• Tarifa: A charming town known for its stunning beaches and strong winds, making it a popular spot for watersports such as kite surfing.
• Cádiz: Known as one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, Cádiz is full of history and beautiful architecture.
• Torcal de Antequera Natural Park: Famous for its unique limestone rock formations, this park offers plenty of highly recommended hiking trails and panoramic views.
• Nerja: A coastal town that boasts beautiful beaches, a charming old quarter, and the famous Caves of Nerja.

Discover more great Andalucia road trips here.

Visiting Andalucía:  FAQs 

To help plan your South Spain itinerary, here are answers to some commonly asked questions.

Is 1 Week in Andalucia Enough?

On a 7 day southern spain itinerary you’ll be able to see quite a few of the major highlights. However, theres still so much more to explore. If you have more time, I definitely recommend spending at least 2 weeks or more in Andalucia to really take in all the region has to offer. You could also tag on a trip from Spain to neighbouring Portugal !

What’s Driving in Andalucia Like?

Driving in Andalucia is generally straightforward, with good-quality roads and well-marked signs. However, before you set out on your southern Spain road trip it’s a good idea to read up on some of the local driving laws and customs before hitting the road. It’s also worth noting that some of the smaller towns and villages may have narrow streets and can be challenging to drive through.

Can I Do This 7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary Using Public Transport?

If you’re travelling on a budget or planning on backpacking Andalucia, it is possible to complete this 7 day southern Spain road trip itinerary using public transport. However, keep in mind that you may need to alter the route and plan for longer travel times between destinations.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Andalucía?

This Andalusia road trip could be done any time of the year, however, summer can get insanely hot and crowded so if you prefer to avoid the high tourist season, consider visiting during spring or autumn. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

What’s the Weather in Southern Spain?

The weather in Andalucia can vary depending on the time of year and location. Generally, summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild with some occasional rain. In the mountains – like the Sierra Nevada – you might even find snow during the winter months.

What to Eat in Andalucia

During this south of Spain trip you’re bound to come across plenty of local foods.  I’m a vegetarian – so the dishes I recommend are;

• Gazpacho (a refreshing cold tomato soup with olive oil)
• Tortilla de patatas (a potato omelette)
• Garbanzos y espinacas (a chickpea and spinach stew)
• Salmorejo (another cold soup, similar to gazpacho)
• Salmorejo (another cold tomato soup, thicker than gazpacho)
• Pisto con huevo (similar to ratatouille)
• Churros con chocolate (a sweet snack for breakfast or dessert)

If you’re a meat eater – I suggest trying jamón ibérico, chorizo or croquetas. These are easy to find in local restaurants and markets.

And of course, don’t forget to sample the famous sherry wine

What to Pack for Your Road Trip

Your packing list will vary depending on what time of year you’re doing this 7 day Andalucia itinerary.  However, here are some general items to remember:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and a hat (especially in summer)
• Layers for cooler evenings
• Swimsuit and beach towel (if visiting during summer)
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera to capture all the beautiful views

If you plan on visiting any religious sites, make sure to dress appropriately (i.e. cover your shoulders and knees). It’s also a good idea to bring a small daypack for any hikes or trips to the beach.

Final Thoughts: One Week in Andalusia, Spain

As you’ve just read, this 7-day trip through Andalucia offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

From renowned cities like Seville and Granada to UNESCO heritage sites, the charm of the white villages, and some adrenalin-pumping adventure thrown in for good measure – this trip will leave you longing for more.

If you enjoyed this South Spain itinerary 7 days guide, you may also want to consider extending your trip to explore other regions of Spain, such as Madrid or Barcelona.

Or, if you have more time, why not add in a few days in Portugal or Morocco ?

👉 More Travel Tips and Inspo for Travel in Spain

How Many Days in Spain and Portugal?

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Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed DIY travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a solo traveller on a mission to experience the best adventures our fabulous little planet offers. I love creating my own itineraries that focus on unforgettable experiences, from climbing mountains and scuba diving to spotting wildlife and exploring ancient ruins.

When I'm not on an adventure, you'll probably find me sipping coffee or with a glass of wine in hand, planning my next journey.

2 Day – 2 Week Southern Spain Itinerary! A Complete Guide to Planning Your Trip!

Categories Europe , Itinerary , Spain

After my recent visits to South Spain, I want to help you plan your Southern Spain itinerary with a range of itineraries you can follow and also tell you the best places to visit in Southern Spain so you can plan your own trip!

This post gives public transport options as the buses and trains in South Spain are great! But it is very focused on a Southern Spain road trip which will make it possible for you to visit some smaller towns and villages in Southern Spain too!

South Spain Itinerary

Andalusia is the region that covers most of Southern Spain and planning an itinerary for Andalusia will give you mountains, historic buildings, beautiful beaches, the taste of Tapas and the sound of Flamenco!

To help you work out where to visit in Southern Spain I’ve given you some ideas of itineraries below . These are not definites but you can use them to understand where you can visit in the time you have.

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here:

Southern Spain in 3-4 Days

• Arrive in Malaga – 1 Day
• Day Trip from Malaga to Cordoba – 1 Day
• Granada – 1-2 Days

Southern Spain in 7 Days

• Granada – 2 Days
• Cordoba – 1 Day
• Seville – 2 Days
• Malaga – 1 Day

Southern Spain in 10 Days

• Cadiz – 2 Days
• Ronda – 1 Day

Southern Spain in 14 Days

• Seville – 3 Days
• Ronda – 2 Day
• Marbella – 1 Day

To go with these itineraries, below is more information about each place and what I see was the best places to visit in Southern Spain!

– Malaga

Malaga is the best place to start your South Spain itinerary because it has the biggest airport with the most amount of flights and because it’s so big you can often get some really good deals and cheap flights into Malaga Airport from elsewhere in Europe!

Malaga used to be seen as the gateway to the beaches of the Costa del Sol , but Malaga City has been revamped and these days it’s a great place to visit in its own rights too! There are many things to do in Malaga worthy of a day, or a few days!

Malaga Airport also offers a huge range of car rentals because it is the biggest airport. We rented a car from Malaga Airport recently using RentalCars and then visited many of the places on this Spain itinerary!

Search car rental from Malaga Airport for your Southern Spain trip here on RentalCars!

Things to do in Malaga

• Alcazaba – this has to be top of your list on things to do in Malaga as it’s the top Malaga tourist attraction . It’s a Moor-ish style medieval fortress which offers a lot of history and great views! Buy great value tickets here!
• Castillo de Gibralfaro – next to Alcazaba but further up the hill, this is the Castle on the hill! You can walk around the old walls of the fortress castle and it offers even better views! It’s a great sunset spot in Malaga too!
• Ancient Roman Theatre – as the base of Alcazaba is a museum and an anicent roman theatre. You can go inside but you can equally see a good view of the theatre from the street.
• Malaga Cathedra l – this is one big Cathedral with an impressive a 16th Century Baroque facade. There is also a museum inside which requires a ticket.
• Picasso Museum – this is a treat for art lovers. It’s located in a restored 16th Century palace with over 200 pieces by Pablo Picasso. Buy tickets here!
• Mercado Central de Atarazana – visiting markets in Spain is always such a great thing to do, whether you want to pick up some fresh food or drink or take a wander around the local produce and this old-school market with an impressive stained glass front offers this.
• Playa de la Malaga – there are many beaches in Malaga along the coast but Playa de la Malaga is the city centre beach and for a city beach, it’s pretty good!

Tours and activities in Malaga!

How much time to spend in Malaga?

Visiting the top tourist sights in Malaga City requires half a day at a minimum and 2 days at a maximum .

You may decide to spend more time in the area of Malaga though so you can enjoy more of the beaches as well as the things to do in Malaga city.

Also, Malaga acts as a great base for a Southern Spain trip because you can visit a lot of places from here, especially if you hire a car.

For example, in May, I stayed at 5* Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton for 3 nights, we spent 1 day relaxing at the hotel and the other 2 days doing a Southern Spain road trip but with this Malaga base which was perfect for a long weekend in Southern Spain.

Got 10 days to explore Europe? Here are some great 10 day Europe itinerary options to help you see a lot!

– Granada

When people think of Andalucia, they most likely think of Granada, or of the sights that you do see in Granada!

Granada is such a charming city. I love it because it has so much character and energy but it isn’t a huge city to navigate. Without a doubt, Granada has to be on your Southern Spain itinerary , without it, and a visit to Alhambra , your trip is not complete!

Things to do in Granada

• Alhambra – this is one of the top tourist attractions in Spain and rightly so! You need to PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE which you can do here and should do as soon as you know your trip dates, and remmeber to take your passport. Alhambra takes 2-4 hours to go around. It’s a huge medieval complex with palaces, throne rooms and gardens from when the Muslims ruled Granada.
• Albacin – this is an area of Granada which is made up of small winding streets. Many of the lower streets are filled with shops and cafes but as you get further up the hill you can wander quiet residental streets. This is the old Muslim quarter of the city so you may feel like you’re in Morocco here!
• Granada Mosque – at the top of the Albacin is Granada Mosque. You should visit here even if you aren’t Muslim because the gardens are beautiful and it has the best view of Alhambra. Next to it is San Nicholas viewpoint outside the church but this viewpoint is better and much quieter.
• Granada Cathedral – a huge catholic cathedral, this is free to enter so definietly worth going inside.
• Flamenco Show – Andalucia is the home of Flamenco and although you’ll see more Flamenco in the streets of Seville, one of the best things to do in Granda is see a Flamenco show as they have so many high quality shows on offer.
• Shopping – there are so many shops in Granada, some are typical tourist souvenir shops, but others like Granart offer many beautful pieces using traditional Granada styles and artwork. There’s also a perfume shop I recommend called Patio de los Perfumes .

Tours and Activities in Granada

How much time to spend in Granada?

You need to factor in at least a few hours in Granada to visit Alhambra, plus a few more hours to see the rest of the city by foot at a minimum.

If you have limited time on your Southern Spain trip , you could spend 1 full day in Granada / 6-8 hours and this is enough time to see Alhambra and get a feel for the city.

However, I recommend at least 1 night and 2 days to get a better feel for the city, go for brunch and relax there like a local as well as sightseeing. And on that note, if you have longer, like 2 weeks in Southern Spain and somewhere on your South Spain itinerary to have a break in, this is a great place to do it. You could happily spend 3-5 days here relaxing and living that slow-paced Andalucian lifestyle, with lots of good food too!

– Seville

Seville is the capital city of Andalucia and the largest of the cities in Andalucia. It’s great, charming and you’ll get all the Spanish feels when you see and hear Flamenco being performed on the streets .

Seville has some of the best places to visit in Andalucia, and it’s also great to use as a base to see more of Southern Spain from because of its great road, bus and train links.

Seville is made up of different neighbourhoods which are great to explore and stay in, check out where to stay in Seville and the best neighbourhoods!

Things to do in Seville

• Plaza de Espana Square – this is one of the most famous places in Seville and translated as the ‘Spanish steps in Seville’. It’s a truly grand and large place with so much tiling work, fountains, benches and you can hire a boat to sail along the small area of water within the Plaza.
• Setas de Sevilla / Las Setas – also known as ‘the mushroom’ one of the fairly new Seville tourist attractions opened in 2011 and you can certianly tell as it’s very modern and unique. It’s cool to see from the ground but one of the top things to do in Seville is to go to the walkway and viewpoint along the top!
• Royal Alcazar of Seville – the Royal Palace of Seville with Islamic, Moor-ish and Christian architecture deisgns, if you’re coming to Southern Spain for Islamic history, this has to be on your list of places to go in Southern Spain! You have to BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE as there are limited daily tickets. You can buy tickets here.
• Seville Cathedral – this is the largest gothic cathedral in the world!
• Flamenco – shows like this are hugely popular with tourists and locals and are a must-do in Seville and Southern Spain!

Tours and Activities in Seville

How much time to spend in Seville?

The best Seville attractions are dotted around the city and therefore, take more time to walk to and from than in Malaga and Granada. One day in Seville is enough and will enable you to visit a few of the top places to go in Seville but ideally, 2 days in Seville is good .

– Cordoba

Cordoba is one of the cities in Southern Spain you might not have heard much about, especially in comparison to Seville, Granada and Malaga, which was the case for me until last year,

However, Cordoba is definitely worth a visit on your South of Spain itinerary. It has the largest old town in Spain and is the only city to have 4 UNESCO world heritage sites which are part of the best things to do in Cordoba.

Things to do in Cordoba

• Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba – if you only go to one place in Cordoba, this has to be it! This is a really unique building which was once a mosque when the Muslims ruled and then became a Church in 1236 when the Muslim rule fell. Today, as you enter inside you can see architecture from both a mosque and cathedral mixed into one which is really unique! BUY FAST-TRACK TICKETS HERE!
• Alcazar de los Rayes Christianos – this was once a fortress with gardens, baths, courtyards and the largest library in Western Europe, it’s changed hands a few times since then and is now of the one top Cordoba tourist attractions with plenty to see!
• Cordoba Old Town – as mentioned, this is the largest old town in Spain which is one of the UNESCO protected sites in Cordoba. It’s made up of lots of small winding streets full of shops, hotels, cafes and restaurants and you’ll also come across many plaza’s and courtyards as you wander.
• Medina Azahara – If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Southern Spain, visiting a place like this will do this! Medina Azahara is on the outskirts of Cordoba city. It was once a magnificent fortified palace-city , with sources mentioning 10,000 people working here to create a new city and Western Caliphate. It’s remains are a major archelogical site in Spain today which can be visited and explored.

Tours and Activites in Cordoba

How much time to spend in Cordoba?

I spent just a few hours in Cordoba , I didn’t see that much, just the Mosque-Cathedral, the Old Town and Old Bridge but it gave me a lovely insight and feel of the city. Without going to Medina Azahara you could spend just one day in Cordoba just fine and it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Seville, and Malaga by train or car .

If you want to visit Medina Azahara and all the top places to see in Cordoba, I’d recommend 1.5 – 2 days in Cordoba .

– Ronda

Ronda Bridge has to be one of the most photographed places in Spain. I know I’d seen so many photos of this impressive, high, arch bridge and gorge.

I had always thought that it was hard to get to Ronda and Ronda was further inland in Spain than it is, but Ronda is in Andalucia in Southern Spain and travelling around Andalucia, especially on a Southern Spain road trip will enable you to see this spectacular pueblo blanco (white town) that has escaped mass build-up of chains and modern buildings.

Things to do in Ronda

• Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) – this bridge isn’t exactly new and it’s over 230 years old , but it is the famous bridge in Ronda which connects the two sides of the town and has a 100m drop and gorge below it. There are viewpoints on either side and all 4 are great to visit to see a different view and perspective.
• El Tajo Gorge – I was surprised to see so many people walking into the Gorge below Ronda’s bridge but it can be done via a path down one side, at the bottom you can walk through the gorge and see the waterfalls down here.
• Old Town – Ronda is nothing but charming and idilic and walking through the small streets of the old town will show you this. During the day it can get busy with day trip tourists but if you visit in the morning, afternoon or evening, you’ll see even more how special Ronda is!

Day Tours to Ronda

Ronda & Setenil from the Costa del Sol

Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas tour from Malaga

Ronda and White Villages Day Trip from Seville

Private Day Trip to Ronda from Marbella

How much time to spend in Ronda?

I spent just 2-3 hours in Ronda as we were on a little road trip around Southern Spain and decided to come here pretty last minute. Even though it was quick and we didn’t get to fully see inside the Gorge, I loved what I saw of Ronda and don’t feel like I have to return in future to see more, even though I wouldn’t say no!

Some people love to spend their whole Southern Spain holiday in and around Ronda because of the beautiful surrounding countryside.

On your itinerary for Southern Spain, I’d spend from 0.5 days to 2 days here depending on how long you have and it’s possible to do a day trip from Seville or Malaga to Ronda.

– Setenil de las Bodegas

My husband literally found the small town of Setenil de las Bodegas via Instagram during our road trip around Southern Spain. We added it to our Spain itinerary straight away and headed here after Ronda as it’s extremely close by.

Setenil de las Bodegas is another one of the pueblos blancos which are the white villages of Andalucia but it has a unique aspect to it because it has buildings built into the rocks of a canyon, which is usual to see for us travellers but even more unusual because usually towns in this area are built on hilltops, not inside a canyon!

Things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas

• Rock Covered Streets – most people do not visit Setenil de las Bodegas for a large list of things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas, instead it is to wander it’s unique streets and see the buildings that are built into the rock.
• Oberservation Deck – seeing the town from a viewpoint is quite an experience, in Spainish a viewpoint is a ‘Mirador’ and there are a few viewpoints in Setenil de las Bodegas.
• Arab Castle – if you have time you should head up here and it’s another way to see a great view as well as take in some history. I read it’s just 1 euro to enter so super cheap but now that only 1 of the 12 towers remain it won’t take you too long to look around.

How much time to spend in Setenil de las Bodegas?

There is accommodation in Setenil de las Bodegas however it seems it’s very much one of the places to visit on a day trip in Southern Spain, it’s very close to Ronda which is where we visited from and then we drove back down to the coast to Malaga afterwards with no problem.

There are many restaurants and cafes in Setenil de las Bodegas and it’s a nice relaxed place to have lunch in on your South Spain road trip.

So, you could spend 1 night in Setenil de las Bodegas but equally 1-3 hours seems to be enough too.

For more information on this pretty town, here’s a great guide to Setenil .

– Puerto Banus

You have probably heard of Marbella which is known for being a high-end beach destination in Spain to visit, but actually, Marbella is a city and actually, where everyone visits is a place near to Marbella called Puerto Banus.

Puerto Banus is known as a playground for the rich and famous because of its yachts, supercars and designer shops so it’s not to everyone’s taste, and people probably don’t associate it with Andalucia but it’s worth passing by to see, especially if you’re doing a Southern Spain road trip.

Things to do in Puerto Banus

• Puerto Banus Harbour – this is the main place I’d suggest going to and plan in visiting for lunch or dinner because there are lots of nice restaurants. There are high-end expensive restaurants but also a fair few mid-range places so it can be enjoyed by all. Walking around the harbour looking at all the yachts and cars is what a lot of people enjoy too.
• Nikki Beach Marbella – this is a really famous beach club which now has other locations in Dubai and Marrakesh. If going to a fancy beach club is on your list of things to do in Spain, this is where you can do it!
• Boat Trip – this location is all about fun in the sun and sea ! From Marbella / Puerto Banus you can do a sunset evening cruise , dolphin watching trip and a party boat trip !

Tours and Activities in Marbella

How much time to spend in puerto banus.

It’s really up to you and what you like. People visit Marbella and Puerto Banus for their 1 or 2 week holiday so you can spend a few days in Marbella, but equally, you can enjoy it by passing by as you drive along the South coast of Spain as I did recently just stopping in for dinner in the evening to take in the pure luxury and craziness of this place.

– Cadiz

Not many people will get over to Cadiz on their Southern Spain itinerary because it is quite far West in the South of Spain, especially if you start your trip in Malaga, but it is a gem not to be missed if you have time, and, it is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe !

Why should Cadiz be on your list of places to visit in Southern Spain? You’ll get the white-washed buildings, cobbled streets, and historic buildings, but also get beautiful clear water surrounding you and plenty of places to visit in Cadiz to keep you busy, and full!

Things to do in Cadiz

• Cadiz Cathedral – this Cathedral took 116 years to complete between 1722 and 1838 and sits in the heart of Cadiz welcoming all visitors as one of the top places to visit in Cadiz.
• Cadiz Cathedral Bell Tower – I love that you can see views of Cadiz city and over to the water from the bell tower of such an impressive cathedral!
• Mercado Central De Abastos – when in a Spainish city you must visit a market and this is a really old one built in 1839! You’ll find all types of food so why not get some food for lunch and even if you’re not hungry, going in is a must to see daily local life !
• Bike Tour – biking through a city is the best way to see it and in Cadiz you can do an organised 3 hour bike tour like this around one of Europe’s oldest cities taking in the historic sites and learning about them from a guide.
• Tapas Tasting – the best way to see a city can be through the food and in Spain, you want to try real Tapas , but the best way is often to do with a guide on a 3 hour tour like this , so they can take you to the best places for tapas in Cadiz!
• Watch Flamenco – just like in Seville and Granada, you can watch Flamenco in Cadiz and get skip the queue tickete here ! Flamenco will have you mesmerised and even those who think they might not like it, will enjoy it!

Tours and Activites in Cadiz

How much time to spend in cadiz.

Like many of the other cities in Andalucia, you could spend 2-3 days in Cadiz enjoying a laid-back lifestyle and this is definitely what people like Cadiz for, but you could also pass through for one day and see a lot of the top things to do in Cadiz.

Southern Spain Map

All 8 of the places to visit in Southern Spain are on this map to help you work out your itinerary!

How to get around Southern Spain

Hiring a car in Spain is the best option if you are able to do this because then you can explore as much as you want and be on your own schedule!

Southern Spain Road Trip

Malaga Airport is a huge airport with lots of car rental companies and the best place to hire a car from in South Spain. I always use RentalCars which searches the top rental car companies.

Search car hire availability and prices for Southern Spain here!

But you can also hire a car in Seville as I recently did if you happen to fly in and out of there to start and end this trip, or Cadiz or Granada.

Have a look for a car for your Southern Spain Road Trip here on RentalCars!

The roads in Southern Spain are very good . The main roads are all highways with 2 lanes , sometimes 3 around cities such as Malaga and they are all in good condition.

In the countryside, the roads become smaller and can become quite steep, windy and narrow in places but they are still very well maintained so as long as you drive carefully you’ll be fine!

Buses and Trains in Southern Spain

South Spain is well connected by train and bus and OMIO is the best platform to search all transport options within Spain so you can check the best, cheapest and fastest route.

Going by train is a great idea to connect between the big cities like Malaga, Seville, Cordoba and Cadiz as they all have good train stations with lots of routes.

Search train and bus routes through Spain using Omio here ! Omio searches all the train and bus providers in Spain to give you the most availability!

If you plan to do some day trips in Southern Spain to see more of the country, then I recommend using the train as it’s faster than the bus and probably driving. For example, you can easily do a day trip to Cordoba from Malaga, Granada or Seville by train.

Going by bus is sometimes the only option but it’s still a good option, I recently booked by bus through OMIO with the ALSA bus company to get from Granada to Malaga. They are a well-organised company with regular departures for a good price with comfy coaches. You even get assigned a seat on the coach making it very safe too.

Shared Taxi Transport

Another way to get between the cities is using a carpool / shared taxi company . I haven’t used this myself but my friend who lives in Seville has used BlablaCar several times between Seville and Granada .

It gives an added level of comfort being in a car rather than on a bus and can be much cheaper than the train. You will share with strangers but you never know, they may be new friends by the end of the trip !

Accommodation in Southern Spain

There is a huge amount of accommodation on offer in the cities and big towns in Southern Spains to suit all trip types and budgets.

I have used booking.com and Airbnb to book all of my Spain accommodation recently.

In Malaga , I recommend a hotel in the Soho District which is really cool! Have a search for one here!

Or, in Malaga, if you’d prefer to be by the beach and in a resort hotel , I really recommend the 5* Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton where I stayed in May.

In Granada , I recommend staying in the Albaicin , only if you don’t have much luggage because the Albicin is full of small pedestrian streets and gives you a really good feel for the old city of Granada!

Best time to visit Southern Spain

One of the reasons I love Spain is because of the all-year-round great weather ! Yes, it does get cold in Spain in the winter but the South is much warmer than the North in winter!

Recently, I visited Southern Spain in November, May, June & July and honestly, it was great all of those months weather-wise .

June and July were very hot and in terms of visiting Southern Spain in Summer, I would avoid July & August if you can as temperatures can go over 40c, especially in cities such as Seville. Being by the coast or in the mountains is a bit more manageable in the summer months.

I loved Spain in May because it was hot but not too hot at all and so many flowers were in bloom because it was spring, it was just a very warm and sunny spring compared to the U.K!

Visiting Southern Spain in Winter is also a great idea. The start of November when I went was very pleasant, I had a jacket on but it wasn’t cold and wasn’t wet either. There was also a huge difference in temperature between Granada which is in the mountains and is colder than Seville and Cordoba which were much warmer in November!

December, January and February definitely get cold in South Spain but not so cold that it snows and with the right warm clothes on you will be comfortable and it will be much milder than in the UK and many other parts of Europe!

Thank you for reading my guide on a Southern Spain itinerary, I hope you have worked out where to visit in Southern Spain, especially if you plan to do a Southern Spain road trip!

• For more of my posts from Spain see:
• REVIEW: Higuerón Hotel Malaga. Incredible 5* Hotel Near Malaga!
• The Ultimate Zaragoza Travel Guide! Everything You Need To Know!
• 50 Things To Do in Zaragoza & Things To See in Zaragoza!
• PERFECT 1 Day in Granada. COMPLETE Granada Itinerary!

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Best Of Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days In Andalusia [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 78 mins read
• Post last modified: February 25, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Southern Spain offers some of Spain’s highlights that every visitor has to experience. Andalusia is  one of the larger regions in Spain,  covering most of southern Spain. 

From sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and festivals to mouthwatering cuisine and diverse landscapes, this place offers some of the most notable attractions. And, of course, how can we forget that it’s also the land of the enthralling  flamenco and bullfighting ? 

I lived in Spain for 2 years , was road-tripping around Andalusia, and fell in love with the region. So, I’ve created this itinerary out of my experience so that you can have the same amazing trip.

So here you have the best of southern Spain itinerary for 10 days. Let’s get into it.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days & Map

Here is an overview of this Andalusia itinerary 10 days, including a map:

How Many Days Do You Need In Southern Spain?

The perfect time in southern Spain is 10 days . You’ll have enough time to explore its charming cities, spend some time in wonderful nature and its beaches, and make some day trips.

If you want extra time in Andalusian cities , you can spend 14 days in southern Spain.

The minimum time in Andalusia is 7 days , just enough to explore the major cities at least and immerse in their history.

Quick Guide For Andalusia

Spain is divided into so-called  autonomous communities  (small states). Each of them has a separate politics and regime. Altogether, there are  17 autonomous communities  in entire Spain.

Andalusia is one of them, Spain’s  second-largest community  by area (after Castile and Leon). It’s also quite different from the rest of Spain, thanks to its  diverse cultures , architecture, and unique art. It’s one of the  most beautiful communities in Spain  and deserves special attention.

Interesting Facts About Andalusia

• Has the second-highest life expectancy in the world after Japan.
• It’s home to the largest arid desert in Europe called Tabernas.
• The Sierra Nevada Mountain range is the highest peak in mainland Spain . It’s in the Granada province and lies at 3478 meters above sea level .
• Sevilla , Granada , and Córdoba make the Golden Triangle in Andalusia .
• You can reach Morocco from Andalusia by ferry in only 70 minutes .
• Tarifa is a surfer’s and windsurfer’s paradise .
• The Málaga airport has the lowest rates for car hire in Europe.
• With more than 110 golf courses, it has the highest concentration of golf courses in all of Europe.

History Of Andalusia

Food & drinks of andalusia.

Famous Personalities From Andalusia

Andalusian culture.

How To Get To Southern Spain

You can get to southern Spain in 3 different ways: by plane, bus, or train . We’ll start our southern Spain itinerary in Sevilla , the major city in Andalusia.

Flying To Southern Spain

Sevilla has an  international airport . So, you can look for flight tickets to Sevilla. If you’re flying from other cities in Europe like Milan, Paris, Prague, or Barcelona, you can look for cheap tickets from budget airlines .

Just be aware of the luggage allowance . Flight tickets are crazy cheap (sometimes only $10), but they charge a lot for extra baggage.

➡ Get the best flight deals on Skyscanner by clicking this link.

Getting To Spain By Bus

If you’re already in Spain or Portugal and want to  get to Sevilla by bus , I suggest booking  Flixbus  or  Alsa .  Flixbus  is an affordable bus company with great connections and deals.  Alsa  is a Spanish bus company that runs between major Spanish cities.

The only disadvantage is that getting to Sevilla by bus will take a lot of time . The advantage is the price and no luggage restrictions .

➡ Check out Busbud for the fastest and best bus connections here.

Getting To Spain By Train

Alternatively, you can  take a train  from other parts of Spain. The national railway is called  RENFE . You can also take a speed AVE train to Sevilla from other major cities like Barcelona, Valencia, or Madrid.

➡ Book your train tickets via Trainline for the best deals here.

How To Get Around Southern Spain & Make This Itinerary

The best way to get around southern Spain is to rent a car . It’ll give you much flexibility and convenience.

Buses are running between major cities and other places, but you would lose a lot of time and have to stick to their schedule.

Andalusia doesn’t have a well-developed train system , so don’t count on trains here.

So rent a car for 8 days to make this southern Spain itinerary. You’ll rent a car on day 3. in the morning in Sevilla and return it on day 10 , in the evening again in Sevilla.

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

0. DAY: ARRIVE IN SEVILLA

Welcome to Sevilla, one of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia and Spain. We’ll  start our southern Spain road trip  itinerary here. But before anything else, I’ll leave you some time to relax after your journey, get into your hotel, and  get the first insights  into the city.

In the evening, you walk alongside the  River Guadalquivir  and even hop on a cruise as your first activity in Sevilla. If not, chill and go to a tapas bar. You’re in the  birthplace of tapas .

Where To Stay In Sevilla: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

atLUMBRERAS 16 UMA SUITES PARADA DEL MARQUES HOTEL ALFONZO XIII LUXURY COLLECTION

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

1. day: sevilla.

Let’s explore Sevilla today with its brimming with cobblestone pathways, bustling neighborhoods, lively festivals, distinctive local culture, and elegant plazas .

It’s the capital city of Andalusia  and the largest in the region. Today, we’ll explore some famous attractions, including the  Cathedral of Sevilla , the  Alcazar (Moorish Castle) , the  Barrio Santa Cruz , and the marvelous city square  Plaza de España .

Sightseeing In Sevilla

🔅 Cathedral of Sevilla 🔅 Giralda Tower 🔅 Real Alcazar (Moorish Castle) 🔅 Barrio Santa Cruz (Jewish Quarter) 🔅 Plaza España (Spanish Square)

NOTE: It’s necessary to book skip-the-line tickets in advance for visiting the Cathedral , Giralda , and Real Alcazar . Otherwise, they’ll be sold out. So click on the links below and get your tickets asap:

➡ SEVILLA CATHEDRAL + GIRALDA: Get skip-the-line tickets here and secure your spot.

➡ REAL ALCAZAR: Book the skip-the-line tickets by clicking here.

Suggested Walking Tour Of Sevilla

Sevilla combines 3 distinct ethnic groups that used to live together in one city. Nowadays, you’ll be impressed by its Moorish , Jewish , and Catholic style architecture.

First, I recommend visiting the Cathedral of Sevilla , where you can see Christoph Colombus’s tomb . After, head up to Giralda , which offers the best views of the entire city. It’s one of the largest cathedrals in the world (top 3).

After, head to the Real Alcazar to explore the Moorish culture. See how they used to live in the past, admire the stunning architecture inside and the beautiful patio. Nowadays, the building is used by the Spanish Royal family .

Then, take a little break and have a coffee in the Jewish quarter (Barrio Santa Cruz). It’s an entirely different world, worth strolling through the streets. Take some time to soak up the atmosphere and shop.

Plaza España is my favorite place in Sevilla. It displays all autonomous communities from Spain using beautiful tiles on the ground. It’s one way to learn more about Spain and its regions.

Sevilla Guided Tour

Book a guided tour of Sevilla and visit the Cathedral , Giralda , and Real Alcazar with a local guide. Learn about the history and hear interesting stories.

Tapas Crawl In The Evening

Sevilla is the  birthplace of tapas , so in the evening, you need to sit down in one of the bars and enjoy a tapas experience.

The best way to immerse into the tapas culture of Sevilla is by participating in a tapas crawl. Join a group with a local and have fun while trying different tapas and walking through the city.

➡ Book a Tapas Crawl in Sevilla with a local guide by clicking here.

2. DAY: EXPERIENCE OLIVE OIL FARM

How would it be being in Andalucia and not visiting one of the amazing olive oil farms out here?

This itinerary won’t let you leave Andalusia without having a  proper experience on an olive farm , seeing and learning  how olive oil is produced , and tasting some of the best samples of olive oil in the world.

Ultimately,  Andalusia is the largest producer of olive oil globally , so it’s time to experience olive oil production in reality.

Experience Olive Oil Farm & Tasting

Today, you’ll enjoy a day trip from Sevilla to an  authentic olive oil farm  20 minutes away. They’ll pick you up from your accommodation in the morning.

The  owner of the farm  will explain to you everything about  growing olives  and  producing olive oil . Afterward, you’ll  visit their factory  and see how they make the oil traditionally and in a traditional Andalusian way. In addition, you’ll  taste various types of olive oil , including sweet, spicy, and bitter flavors, with local bread.

In the afternoon, they’ll  drive you back to Sevilla , where you can spend the rest of the day exploring the city.

Book the tour to an oil farm and tasting by clicking on the image box below:

Organized Tour To Olive Oil Farm & Tasting

Book this organized tour to an authentic olive oil farm near Sevilla. Learn about the production and taste delicious olive oil with local products.

Famous Spanish Festivals In Sevilla

Sevilla is also home to 2 famous Spanish festivals : Semana Santa and Feria de Abril . These festivals perfectly reflect Spanish culture . So you can plan your itinerary for the months when these Spanish festivals are organized.

It’s usually in late March, April, or early May. Check the exact dates in my article by clicking on the image below:

3. DAY: SEVILLA ⇒ CÓRDOBA

It’s time to set off for our big southern Spain adventure. We’ll drive to another city, Córdoba.

In the morning, rent a car in Sevilla for 8 days . You’ll return it in Sevilla after this road trip. Once you have the car, let’s go to Córdoba .

Distance Sevilla ⇒ Córdoba by car: 1 hour & 40 minutes (141km/87miles)

Córdoba has a rich history, as many  kingdoms  occupied it. It has many photographic spots and  Insta-worthy places  due to its beautiful  streets with colorful flowers and pots .

A key highlight of this place is the UNESCO World Heritage site  Mezquita of Córdoba , also known as the Great Mosque of Córdoba. This imposing structure symbolizes Muslim architecture with  Byzantine-style mosaics , a gilded prayer nook, impressive domes, marble columns, and arches.

The  Jewish Quarter  and  Puente Romano  (an ancient Roman bridge) are other highlights of this place. Today, you’ll explore the city.

Sightseeing In Córdoba

🔅 Mezquita of Córdoba – Great Mosque of Córdoba 🔅 Jewish Quarter 🔅 Puente Romano – ancient Roman bridge

Today, take the time to explore the city from the outside. Walk around the Great Mosque and Puente Romano and take some photos.

After, visit the Jewish quarter and admire Cordoba’s cute tiny streets full of flowers. I love this city and its atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Andalusian culture .

I recommend visiting the Great Mosque tomorrow morning before traveling to Granada. So book your tickets for day 4. of this itinerary.

Where To Stay In Córdoba: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

PATIOS DEL ORFERBE – budget-friendly HOTEL BOUTIQUE SUITE GENERIS – mid-range hotel H10 PALACIO COLOMERA – luxury hotel

Famous Spanish Festivals In Córdoba

Córdoba is also home to a  famous Spanish festival  called  Festival de Patios . Locals  decorate their patios  (courtyards) and compete for the most beautiful ones. The city’s streets are lively; everyone sings, dances, drinks, and eats delicious food.

So you can plan your visit to experience this festival.

4. DAY: CÓRDOBA ⇒ GRANADA

Today, we’ll visit one of the most famous and important landmarks of Andalusian and Spanish history, the Great Mosque of Córdoba .

The Great Mosque Of Córdoba

Would you believe the mosque’s official name is  the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption ? Confused? Don’t worry, I was too. That’s because this mosque  reflects many religious changes  in Córdoba over the past centuries. 

This sight was initially built as a  Catholic church  until, in the 700s, the  Moors conquered the city  and occupied it for a long time. Back then, the complex was  divided into Muslim and Christian parts . Soon,  Muslims built the Great Mosque , one of the Islamic world’s biggest buildings.

In 1236, thanks to the  Reconquista , Christians defeated the Muslim reign over Córdoba, and the building converted into a  Roman Catholic Church .

Nowadays, you can admire its stunning arches and the entire complex with a park and courtyard.

NOTE: As with the sights in Sevilla, booking your tickets to the Great Mosque in advance is necessary . Otherwise, they’ll be sold out.

Great Mosque Tickets & Guided Tour

Get this skip-the-line ticket with a guided tour of the Great Mosque of Cordoba. Visit it with a local guide and hear about interesting stories.

Afternoon Drive To Granada

In the afternoon, pack your bags and make the way down to  Granada .

Distance Córdoba ⇒ Granada by car: 2 hours and 15 minutes (204km/127miles)

After you arrive in Granada, check in to your accommodation and relax for a while. Then, head to Granada’s streets for drinks and free tapas . Granada has many bars where you’ll get free tapas if you order a beer or a drink. So go ahead and enjoy local culture.

Where To Stay In Granada: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

FLORENTIA HOMES – budget-friendly U-SENSE GRANADA CATHEDRAL – mid-range hotel ALHAMBRA PALACE HOTEL – luxury hotel

5. DAY: GRANADA

Granada has a great blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a complete family-friendly destination.

Well-known for the magnificent  Alhambra , incredible  tapas culture , fascinating history, and  delightful neighborhoods.  Granada is one of the most visited places in Spain.

A few things that must make it to your itinerary are the UNESCO-listed  Albaicín neighborhood , the exotic  cave dwellings of Sacromonte , the  Granada Cathedral , and the  traditional Arab quarter .

You can also see a lot of Moorish , Jewish , Christian, and Roman influences in the city. Today, we’ll get to explore it all on this itinerary.

Sightseeing In Granada

🔅 Alhambra 🔅 Cathedral of Granada 🔅 Royal Chapel – burial places of Spanish Monarchs, Queen Isabella I. and King Ferdinand (who started Reconquista against the Muslim rule in Spain) 🔅 Alcaiceria – Great Bazaar of Granada 🔅 Albaicín –  Arab Quarter 🔅 St. Nicolas Square – best views of Alhambra and Sierra Nevada Mountain 🔅 Sacromonte – birthplace of flamenco (best spot to see the show)

Visit Alhambra In The Morning

Today, I recommend you start sightseeing with the most popular site of all time: Alhambra.

Alhambra complex was  built back in the 1200s  during the  Muslim reign in Andalusia . The  Nasrid dynasty  lived in Alhambra for many years until the Spanish Monarchs conquered and  expelled Moors from Andalusia  and Spain.

It then became the  royal residence  of the  Spanish Catholic Monarchs . Nowadays, it’s a top attraction to visit in Europe and serves mainly as a museum with incredible Moorish architecture .

Again, you’ll need to  plan,  as getting tickets for Alhambra is  impossible on the spot . They are usually  fully booked, even 3 months in advance .

This is one of the most important sights on our southern Spain itinerary. Therefore, I highly recommend you  book the skip-the-line tickets before your trip .

➡ Book this guided tour of Alhambra incl. skip-the-line tickets (best deals).

Explore Granada In The Afternoon

In the afternoon, explore Granada and other sites such as the  Cathedral with the Royal Chapel ,  Sacromonte ,  Albaicín neighborhood , and get lost in the  Great Bazaar (Alcaiceria) .

Walk up to the  Mirador de San Nicolas  (viewpoint) for the best sunset views and spectacular views of Alhambra.

You can explore the city by yourself or join this guided tour to learn more about the history of the Inquisition and the Spanish Monarchs.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for Granada Cathedral + Royal Chapel here.

➡ Join this guided tour of Granada’s Cathedral & Roayl Chapel.

Flamenco Show In The Evening

Granada is the  birthplace of flamenco . The best place to see it is the  Sacromonte neighborhood ,  home to gypsies .

They made it the best place to see an  authentic flamenco show . This is one of the best flamenco shows you can get in Granada, so check it out by clicking on the image below:

6. DAY: GRANADA ⇒ MÁLAGA

Good morning to Granada. Have a nice breakfast and pack your bags because another destination awaits us today. We’re heading to Málaga.

Distance Granada ⇒ Málaga by car: 1 hour and 40 minutes (132km/82miles)

The  second-largest city  in Andalucia is well known for its bevy of resorts and  spotless beaches . While most tourists flock to Málaga for sun, sand, and surf, it’s also home to major historical sites.

Besides, you can experience authentic Spanish Christmas markets here.

These include the  Alcazaba Moorish palace , the remarkable  Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga , the  Roman Amphitheatre , and  Málaga’s Picasso Museum , a delight to art and history buff. 

If you are a  foodie , stop by the  Atarazanas market  for fresh local produce and yummy snacks and explore their tapas bars and fresco-dining terraces. You can also join a food tour .

Sightseeing In Málaga

🔅 Castilo de Gibralfaro 🔅 Alcazaba Moorish Palace 🔅 Málaga Cathedral 🔅 Roman Theatre 🔅 Ataranzas Market 🔅 Picasso Museum 🔅 Picasso’s house

Enjoy your time in Málaga visiting some or all of the sites from the list above. Don’t forget to check out Picasso’s House and museum and get the city’s best views from the  Castilo de Gibralfaro.

Málaga is a great place for  day trips around Andalusia , so you can stay in the same accommodation for a few nights now.

Tomorrow, you can make some of the best day trips from Málaga . Whether you like adrenaline, history, or just relaxing, there is something for you.

Where To Stay In Málaga: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

We are staying in Málaga for 2 nights, so you can stay in one of these beautiful boutique resorts and enjoy the atmosphere of la Costa del Sol :

BEACHFRONT VILLA TORROX COSTA HOTEL BOUTIQUE VILLA LORENA BY CHARMING STAY

If you still want to stay in the centre of Málaga, here are my recommendations and top accommodation tips:

HOTEL PALACETE DE ALAMOS ROOM MATE VALERIA

7. DAY: DAY TRIPS FROM MÁLAGA (Caminito del Rey, Marbella, Ronda)

Today, I’ve got some  exciting day trips from Málaga  for you. Choose one based on your interests and feelings. If you want to do more, extend your road trip and add one more day trip to your itinerary.

1. Caminito Del Rey

The first day trip I have for you is the amazing and  thrilling pathway , Caminito del Rey. It’s in the  Gorge Desfiladero,  just 40 minutes drive from Málaga. This pathway was built to provide access to the  hydroelectric plant  on the Gorge. 

Nowadays, it’s a famous attraction known as the Caminito del Rey: The King’s Little Pathway. It’s  7.7km long , and you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Gorge and surrounding nature.

You’ll need to  book tickets in advance . You can do so by clicking on the link below:

➡ Get skip-the-line ticket for Caminito del Rey here .

➡ Join this organized guided tour to Caminito del Rey from Malaga .

2. Marbella

The elegant town of Marbella is your second option for a day trip. It boasts  pristine beaches ,  trendy boutiques , high-end restaurants, and  lively nightclubs . The majestic  Sierra Nevada Mountain Range  forms a stunning background for this coastal town. 

Marbella is one of  Spain’s most famous beach resorts . However, there is another less-explored artistic side to this lovely town that is fun to visit, too.

Head to the  Old Town (Casco Antiguo) , where you can see peaceful courtyards, winding cobblestone lanes, historic churches, sidewalk cafés, and excellent boutiques.

So if you like to explore another  beautiful town  in southern Spain and need some  relaxation  on one of the most  beautiful beaches , this day trip is for you.

➡ Join this Sailing & Dolphin watching tour from Marbella .

Ronda’s dramatic location has attracted millions of visitors every year. Perched on both sides of the  El Tajo Gorge  in the  Sierra de las Nieves National Park , this picturesque historic  town has inspired several writers and poets . 

Ronda is known for  inventing modern bullfighting  and the iconic  Puente Nuevo bridge . It’s one of the most visited in Andalucia. The city has two areas- the old one has many Islamic landmarks, such as  The Moorish Palace  and the  Arab Baths .

In contrast, the new area is the hub for shopping and dining. You can visit it on your own by car or join the guided tour from Málaga to Ronda if you don’t want to plan anything:

➡ Join this guided tour from Malaga to Ronda by bus .

➡ Book a walking tour in Ronda here .

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Spain Itinerary 14 Days – for more day trips from Málaga

8. DAY: MÁLAGA ⇒ TARIFA

Let’s head to the  surfers’ paradise . Even if you’re not a surfer or a windsurfer, you’ll love Tarifa. Not to mention that it’s one of the most southern points of Europe and you can already see  Morocco and Africa  from it.

So, let’s drive down south to explore another beautiful Andalusian place.

Distance Málaga ⇒ Tarifa by car: 2 hours (160km/99miles)

Tarifa is the  European capital of kite surfing . It also has a great beach to chill on, and its perfect  coffee culture  and tiny little streets will be a great point to take some  time off road-tripping  for now.

Its  laid-back atmosphere  will give you the time to relax. So spend some time on the beach , or stroll through its city streets and go shopping.

Sightseeing In Tarifa

🔅 Moorish Fort – the first place from where the Moorish invasion of Spain started 🔅 Playa de Los Lances – beach time & relax 🔅 Tarifa Beach – beach for kite-surfing 🔅 Tarifa centre 🔅 Great nightlife – Surf Bar Tomatito, Aloha Tarifa, Hotel Arte Vida Tarifa

Take your time to relax, drink a good cup of coffee, and head to a tapas bar for dinner. Enjoy your time in Tarifa.

I think it’s better to enjoy beach time here in Tarifa than any other city in Andalusia. Beaches around Málaga and Marbella are usually very crowded (they’re better for sightseeing).

Tarifa is special as not many people go here. It has an amazing beach, and you’ll enjoy tranquility and remoteness . That’s why I’ve brought you to Tarifa on this itinerary: to have a great beach time and enjoy this cute little time. And for half of the price than you would in bigger cities.

Best Tapas Bars In Tarifa

• No. 6 Cocina Sencilla
• Bar El Tapeo
• Bar Ola Ola

👉 READ ALSO: How Far Is Morocco From Spain? Complete Guide

Where To Stay In Tarifa: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

ARTE VIDA – beachfront apartments ALMENDA HOSTAL BOUTIQUE – city center DUNAS LUXURY BEACH RESORT TARIFA – away from the center, but beachfront

9. DAY: TARIFA ⇒ CÁDIZ

As our last destination on this southern Spain itinerary, we’ll explore  Europe’s oldest inhabited city , Cádiz. In the morning, drive from Tarifa and check in to your accommodation in Cádiz. After, head to the city and explore.

Distance Tarifa ⇒ Cádiz by car: 1 hour & 20 minutes (104km/64miles)

Cádiz is  Europe’s oldest inhabited city  and is famous for its white  houses surrounded by sea . Tourists often overlook this coastal city for more popular cities in the region. Still, a trip here is worth your time. 

This charming city is on the Atlantic Ocean and offers  splendid beaches ,  delicious food ,  majestic castles , and  fabulous beaches . Don’t miss out on sweeping views of the city from the top of the  Tavira Tower .

Another highlight is the  La Caleta beach , famous for the  castle of San Sebastián  on the left and the  castle of Santa Catalina  on the right (facing the ocean).

Sightseeing In Cádiz

🔅 Cathedral of Cádiz 🔅 Roman Theatre 🔅 Plaza de San Juan de Dios 🔅 Tavira Tower 🔅 Cádiz Market 🔅 San Sebastian Castle 🔅 Santa Catalina Castle 🔅 La Caleta Beach

Where To Stay In Cádiz: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

SOHO BOUTIQUE CADIZ AUREA CASA PALACIO

10. DAY: CÁDIZ ⇒ SEVILLA

Today marks the last day of our southern Spain itinerary for 10 days. Enjoy the last moment in Cádiz before returning to Sevilla, where we started our road trip.

You can use this day to explore more of Cádiz or just chill and walk alongside the ocean before returning to Sevilla to return your rental car.

Alternatively, you can stay in Tarifa for 2 nights (day 8. and day 9.) to enjoy more beach time or kite-surfing. Come to Cádiz on day 10 , of this itinerary to see it on the way back to Sevilla.

Distance Cádiz ⇒ Sevilla by car: 1 hour & 20 minutes (121km/75miles)

This is my southern Spain itinerary for you guys. Feel free to extend it if you need more time in one of the cities or make more day trips from Málaga. It’s undoubtedly the most exciting part of Spain , offering authentic culture and some of the most beautiful architecture in the world.

After, you can head to  Portugal  and visit the Algarve beaches , its beautiful beaches and sandstone rock formations.

Practical Tips For Your Southern Spain Itinerary

I’ve got some more travel tips to help you plan your itinerary in more detail. See when the best time to visit is, what budget you’ll need, and how to pack.

Best Time To Visit Southern Spain (Andalusia)

Spring and autumn  are the best times to visit Andalusia, southern Spain. I recommend this road trip in  April ,  May ,  September ,  October , or  December .

During spring and autumn, there are  fewer tourists   fewer crowds , and the  temperatures are perfect  for sightseeing. It’s also a great time to go swimming on the beach.

You can also visit  southern Spain in the summer  (June, July, and August). However, be prepared for many crowds, so it might be less enjoyable overall. Also, temperatures can rise to 40°C/104°F in summer, which is a lot.

What To Pack For Your Southern Spain Itinerary

It’s usually very hot in southern Spain. The temperatures in spring and autumn range from around 22°C/71 ° F to 27°C/80°F . In the summertime , it can be more than 40°C/104°F .

I visited southern Spain in December , and the weather was mild, yet I needed a light jacket. Temperatures in the winter are around 17°C/62°F .

So it depends on the time you’ll visit Andalusia. But generally, I recommend packing the following things:

• swimming suit
• good walking shoes
• shorts and dresses
• small backpack for sightseeing
• Light jacket (if it’s windy or colder)
• warmer jacket in the wintertime
• long-sleeve clothes in the wintertime

Budget For Your Southern Spain Itinerary

The budget for this itinerary for 10 days per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $875 . This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car to travel conveniently, and enjoy each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 10-day trip to Andalusia, without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the country offers, is $875 per person .

Southern Spain is quite cheap , so you can lower the budget significantly.

Budget Breakdwon For Each Traveler Type

Here is a quick overview of a budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 10-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $400 ➡ 10-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $875 ➡ 10-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $1900

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending during my trip to southern Spain. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

Is Southern Spain Safe?

Yes, southern Spain is safe. I spent 2 weeks traveling around Andalusia with a group of my girlfriends, and we always felt safe. We even walked alone at night in Sevilla, which was safe.

You should only be aware of pickpockets in bigger cities such as Sevilla and Málaga . Other cities are quite small, and people are super friendly and helpful.

Use your common sense , and it’ll always keep you safe.

How To Speak Spanish When Traveling Spain

I’m a big believer that knowing a few words of a local language will give you much better travel experiences . If you know at least the basics, you’ll connect with locals easily, get to know the culture and the places better, and have a great travel experience.

That’s why I also teach you how to learn a language for travel in fun and effective ways . One of them is to take my Spanish sheets and learn how to order food in Spanish.

So get this Spanish food guide and learn basic vocabulary. You’ll see how it’ll enhance your trip experience:

👉 READ ALSO: Do You Need Spanish To Travel To Spain? My Experience

To help you plan your trip to Andalusia even more, I’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions for you. Check the answers below.

Is Southern Spain Worth Visiting?

Southern Spain is well worth visiting . I always tell my clients that if they don’t have much time to see Spain, they should at least explore southern Spain.

Andalusia is my favorite Spanish region . It’s mainly because of its traditional cuisine , rich history , stunning architecture , and authentic culture . It has a special vibe , and when you visit Spain, spending a few days in southern Spain is a must.

10 days is the perfect time to explore southern Spain. Of course, you can also explore its highlights in 7 days, but you would be a bit in a rush.

If you want to extend your trip and see more things, such as Gibraltar , relax on the beaches of Costa del Sol , and do a cooking class , you can easily spend 14 days in southern Spain .

How Do I Spend A Week In Southern Spain?

If you only have a week in southern Spain, I recommend visiting major cities such as Sevilla , Granada , and Cordoba . Then allocate 2 days for some day trips to Ronda , Caminito del Rey , Gibraltar , or visiting an olive oil farm .

Skip Cadiz and Tarifa if you only have 7 days. And focus on the 3 major cities with these day trips.

Is 2000 EUR Enough For 2 Weeks In Spain?

Yes, 2000 EURs are enough for 2 weeks in Spain. I’ve also designed a detailed Spain itinerary for 14 days with a budget overview, so check it out. The mid-range budget for 2 weeks in Spain is between 1800 EUR and 2400 EUR , depending on your activities and the hotels you stay at.

Having 2000 EURs for 2 weeks in Spain is a perfect budget to explore everything and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

WRAP-UP: Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days

This is my southern Spain itinerary for 10 days for you. I hope you’ll get the most out of Andalusia and enjoy its stunning architecture and beautiful places. It’s my favorite part of Spain , and you’ll see unique places in this region. If you can’t decide where to go to Spain, Andalusia is the winner.

If you  need additional help planning your itinerary , don’t hesitate to contact me on Instagram or email me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . Let me know if you have any questions. I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Spain Travel

Looking to visit more places in Spain? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain

Barcelona Itinerary For 3 Days

Top 8 Road Trips From Barcelona

6 Best Spanish Festivals You Need To Experience

Is Seville Worth Visiting? 14 Reasons To Visit & Tips

How Far Is Morocco From Spain? Complete Guide

How Far Is Barcelona From Paris? Complete Guide

Spain In December: Best Things To Do & See

Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

27 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Is Portugal In Spain? Ultimate Guide

Do You Need Spanish To Travel To Spain? My Experience

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SPAIN : Interested in more articles about Spain? Check out my Spain Travel Page :

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Southern Spain Itinerary: The Best of Andalucía in 7 Days in 2024

Looking for a Southern Spain itinerary that covers the highlights of Andalucia in a week? You’ve come to the right place!

Siestas, wine, tapas, a great social scene, beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, art and culture: there’s not much that Spain doesn’t have.

And one of my favourite regions of Spain where you can find all of this and more is Andalucía . The Southern Spain itinerary I’m about to share with you will highlight the best of this magical area of the country – one of my favourite parts of the world and a place I could easily call home one day.

The best way to experience this region is to get your own car and explore it at your own pace. So, let’s jump into this 7 day Southern Spain road trip itinerary where I’ll show you how to visit the best places to visit in Andalusia in just a week.

PS. You can download this itinerary and print it out for yourself by clicking here . It includes Southern Spain highlights and has a handy planner so you can write out your own Spain itinerary.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Southern Spain itinerary

In a nutshell, here’s the Spain itinerary I recommend – all based on my own experiences. We actually had 9 days, but I’ve condensed this to 7 days because I know that most of us are time-poor.

The great thing about this itinerary is that you can shorten or lengthen it – if you’ve got 9 or 10 days, slow it down and add an extra day in Granada or Seville, for example.

7 Day Andalucia road trip

• Day 1: Travel to Granada
• Day 2: Granada and the amazing Alhambra

Day 3: Granada to Nerja

Day 4: nerja to ronda, day 5: ronda to seville, day 6: seville, day 7: seville to córdoba.

To help you visualise this itinerary, here’s a map of the route that I outline in this article. I’ll give you some options in the next section for where to fly into to start and end this trip.

Visiting Andalucía – Need to know

How to get to andalucía.

Because we got a great deal through Going (find out how to get cheap flights ), we chose to fly in and out of Madrid . From Madrid, it’s only a short drive to get to Granada (our starting point in Andalucía).

However, if you’d prefer to skip Madrid and land right in the heart of Andalucía, then you can fly directly into Málaga, Seville, Almeria, Granada or Jerez airports. I like to compare flights on Skyscanner to see which airlines are offering the best deals.

How to get around Andalucía

So, when you get here, how should you get around Andalucía on this south of Spain itinerary?

I recommend renting a car to make this an Andalucía road trip. The roads in Spain are great and having a car means you can pack up and go when it suits you.

All the major car rental companies are in Spain. I use Discover Cars to check availability and prices. They have all the major brands – we ended up with a rental from Avis.

We found renting a car in Spain to be affordable , although petrol (gas) is expensive in comparison to, say, some parts of the United States. Having said that, the rental cars are generally small and quite economical with fuel . Most rental cars are manual (stick) but automatics are available, you’ll just have to pay a little more.

You definitely want to get a small car for this southern Spain itinerary – some streets in towns like Granada are barely even streets! We got lost one day and ended up having to squeeze through a few alleyways to get back to the main road and we were very, very thankful to have a tiny car!

Parking can be tricky in towns in Andalucía, so it’s worth finding accommodation that has parking included or asking your accommodation where the closest/cheapest public parking garage is. We ended up doing this in most places we visited on our Spain road trip because on-street parking was a challenge.

Our car had built-in GPS but WIFI is also great around Andalucía for using Google Maps or another navigation app on your phone. You can get an e-sim like Nomad to avoid high international roaming charges.

As with most car rentals, never pre-pay your fuel , even if you think you’ll return it empty. Most car rental companies charge higher fuel prices than you’ll find at service stations.

While you do you need an international driving permit for Spain, we were never asked to show ours.

We’ve travelled Spain by train a few times and found the trains to be well-run and comfortable .

Tickets are usually offered in turista (second class) and preferente (first class) and you’ll be assigned a seat. Turista seats are of course cheaper and are perfectly comfortable and spacious. I’d recommend those unless the price difference is minimal. It’s best to buy your tickets as far in advance as possible to save money.

I recommend booking train tickets through Omio , which has a really straightforward platform.

It can be cheaper to travel Andalusia by bus than by train, but it’s also less comfortable and means longer journeys. You can do everything I’ve outlined in this itinerary for southern Spain, but you’ll need to adjust your activities to coincide with the bus timetable.

Check out Omio for bus timetables and tickets.

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, let’s get stuck into this southern Spain itinerary !

Day 1: Madrid to Granada

Distance: 437 kilometres Driving time: 4.5 hours

Alternative: Fly straight into Granada to skip the travel between Madrid and Granada .

Time your flight to arrive in Madrid in the morning so you can make the most of your first day. Pick up a rental car at the airport and then cruise off down the smooth roads of E-5 highway towards Granada. Don’t be surprised to see cars zooming past you – speed limits exist here but it doesn’t appear that they’re followed all that closely!

Top tip: Set your navigator to avoid tolls – they’re pricey and won’t save you that much time anyway.

When you arrive in Granada, check in to your hotel and freshen up. Granada was one of my favourite places to visit in Spain , so I hope you enjoy it too. While you’re only spending a day here, I do have a guide to to 2 days in Granada if you want to extend your trip.

Spain is famous for its food , and the Andalucía region has many specialties. I love to start a trip with a food tour so I know exactly what to order over the following days.

We did a food tour in Granada with Spain Food Sherpas which highlights many locally owned stores and restaurants and goes beyond tapas. Over three hours you’ll sample local chocolates, olive oils, nuts and dried fruits from the oldest store in all of Spain (yes, the entire country!!), traditional tapas and tapas with a modern twist. We were absolutely stuffed!

Our guide, Molly, shared so much information with us about Granada, including restaurants and bars to try while we were there.

Here’s another Granada food tour that I found that’s similarly priced and also has good reviews.

Where to stay in Granada

The best area to stay in Granada is the Albaicín, Granada’s old town. The only downside to this area is that it is hilly and you’ll need to walk over slippery cobblestones – we saw a few people fall over here, so be careful.

• Santa Isabel la Real is a boutique hotel that was a former 16th century home  (Calle Santa Isabel la Real, 19) | Check availability online on Booking.com or Expedia

Alternatively, the historic downtown of Granada is another great area that will put you right in the heart of all the action.

• If you’re after a boutique hotel, Hotel Casa 1800 is a lovely option  (Calle Benalua, 11) | Read reviews online at TripAdvisor
• Sercotel Palacio de los Gamboa  is a short walk to the city’s main attractions  (Plaza Gamboa)  | Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Expedia

Alternative ideas: If you’re already in Europe, fly into Málaga, which is closer to Granada, and start your trip there. You’ll find there are a tonne of great things to do in Málaga !

Day 2: Granada and the Alhambra

Today, you’re beginning with what will likely be the highlight of your southern Spain itinerary: the Alhambra . If you’ve planned ahead, you’ve already got tickets for the Alhambra and you’ve been lucky to score entry for the morning.

You have a big day ahead, so fuel up with a traditional Spanish breakfast of eggs, pan con tomate y jam ón , fresh orange juice, coffee and pastries. You’ll find this breakfast served at most cafes or at your hotel.

Head up to the Alhambra to experience beauty unlike anywhere else. The Alhambra is one of the most incredible places to see in Spain. Built in AD889, the Alhambra is the most important surviving remnant of Islamic rule in the Iberian Peninsula (which was from 711-1492 – that’s OLD).

You’ll need at least three hours here to enjoy the intricate details of the Nasrid Palaces, the lush green gardens of the Generalife and the views from the Alcazaba. Read my guide to the Alhambra for more details.

Head back down to town, following the Rio Darro and along the Paseo de los Tristes.

You’re probably hungry by now, so stop into Alhambra Cafetería (Plaza Bib-Rambla, 27) for churros to dip into a mug of thick Spanish hot chocolate . These are likely to be the first of many churros on this Andalucía itinerary (I ate so many churros on our Spain road trip that I thought I’d turn into a churro myself!).

Have lunch at La Vinoteca (Calle Almireceros, 5) , a bright and airy restaurant that’s always filled with tables of people enjoying tapas and cerveza .

After lunch, do as the locals do and have a siesta .

Then, join a walking tour of the Albaicín and Sacromonte . These historical areas have retained much of their original architecture and influence and are worthy of a few hours’ exploration. While you can wander through the windy streets by yourself, a guided tour means you’ll find a few hidden gems off the touristy path.

Granada is one of the remaining cities in Spain where tapas are still served free with a drink , be that beer, wine or a soft drink. It makes for a cheap night out!

Stop in at a few traditional Spanish tapas restaurants for a drink (or three) and sample tapas like jamón with crusty bread, patatas bravas or chunks of spicy chorizo. Sit (or stand most likely) at the bar to be right in the action. Some great tapas bars in Granada are:

• Bodegas Castañeda , Calle Almireceros, 1-3 – chaotic and a great place to people watch
• Los Manueles , Calle Reyes Católicos, 61 – there are two restaurants called Los Manueles and they’re just across the road from each other, so make sure to choose this one which has an outdoor terrace
• Los Diamantes , Calle Navas, 28 – teeny tiny tapas place that is always packed

Top tip: In most places you won’t get to choose your tapas and it’s considered rude to refuse a free tapa, so take what’s on offer and be adventurous!

Distance: 93 kilometres Driving time: 1.25 hours

Tip: If the weather isn’t looking good, you can skip the Nerja portion of the trip and spend an extra day in Granada

Rise late and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Get on the road to head to Nerja, a beach town on Spain’s Costa del Sol. As you wind around the corner, Nerja will be stretched before you, a sea of white-washed buildings with terracotta-tiled roofs.

Drive past the Acueducto del Águila (the Eagle Aqueduct) for photos, then head down to the beach for some sunbathing or a dip in the sea.

There are several restaurants along the beach serving fresh seafood. Nerja is a popular European resort town, so you’ll find prices a little higher here and English spoken everywhere. Go back from the beach to find more affordable dining options.

Leave the car behind for this portion of the southern Spain itinerary. Instead, take a local bus from the bus station on Avenida Pescia up into the hills above Nerja to visit Frigiliana, a small pueblo blanco (white town) .

Spend the afternoon wandering the narrow streets and admiring the beautiful flowers that adorn the windows of the houses. Have a drink at one of the bars overlooking the valley below.

Buses run every hour or so, so head back into Nerja for dinner. Highly recommended restaurants in Nerja include:

• Restaurant 34 (in the Hotel Carabeo), Calle Hernando de Carabeo, 34
• Restaurante Fusion , Plaza de España, 9
• Oliva , Calle Pintada, 7 – Michelin-listed restaurant

Where to stay in Nerja

For seaside views, book a room at Paraíso del Mar ( Calle Prolongación Hernando de Carabeo, 22 ). Any hotel that welcomes guests with a drink is a good hotel in my opinion.

Located right on the beach (although there are several flights of steps to get down to the sand), the staff is friendly and helpful and speaks multiple languages. It’s a lovely, small hotel that makes guests feel welcome. We stayed here for just one night.

Distance: 171 kilometres Driving time: 2 hours

After breakfast, wander down to the Balcón de Europa , Nerja’s seafront promenade, for the lovely views.

It’s time to get back on the road for the scenic drive to Ronda , which winds up and through the Sierra Bermeja mountains. Drive carefully here – there’s a rather steep drop off to the side.

Check in to your hotel in Ronda and head to the Old Town , the main attraction of Ronda. While called the Puente Nuevo (new bridge) the bridge is actually more than 225 years old and an amazing feat of engineering. Admire the 100-metre-high bridge from the Parador de Ronda, which was the former town hall building, then walk across the bridge, through the small plaza and take a right turn to descend into the gorge below.

Follow the path down to the road below (Carretera de los Molinos), stopping along the way for the fantastic views looking up at the bridge and the small waterfall and stream below it. This was one of my favourite things to do in Ronda .

Continue along the road and then enter the Old Town back through the Puerta de Carlos V. Here you’ll discover churches, lovely shaded plazas and fountains. The wall that protected the city still stands in some parts.

Visit the Baños Arabes (Arab baths), some of the best preserved in Spain, and then the smaller Puente Viejo (old bridge).

The Jardínes de Cuenca (Cuenca gardens) provide another view of the bridge and the deep valley below.

If you’d prefer to explore the city with an expert guide to tell you about the history of this old town, then this small group walking tour comes highly recommended.

For dinner, try the modern Asian-Andalucían fusion menu at Tragatá   (Calle Nueva, 4) , run by chef Benito Gomez. It’s considered one of the best restaurants in Ronda and it’s in the Michelin guide. If you haven’t got a reservation, arrive right at opening time to try your luck.

Take your pick from the extensive tapas menu. We dined on a delicious crunchy octopus sandwich (seen below), patatas bravas , croquettes and refreshing salmorejo , a cold soup with a tomato base.

End the evening with a glass of wine at Entre Vinos (Calle Pozo, 2) , a stylish wine bar with many local wines on the menu.

Where to stay in Ronda

We were lucky to get a room at the boutique Buena Vista Ronda Club (Calle Clavel, 6) . It has just three rooms so book ahead. It’s only a 15-minute walk from the main sights of Ronda, and has stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that look over the surrounding countryside. There’s a pool and sauna on site. Check rates and availability online .

Distance: 129 kilometres Driving time: 2 hours (longer with stops along the way)

Take a tour of Ronda’s bullfighting ring , which opened in 1785. There’s an onsite museum with plenty of memorabilia and stories about the history of bullfighting  (Calle Virgen de la Paz, 15) . While I’m not at all interested in bullfighting and think it’s awful, I. do also recognise that it’s an important part of Spanish culture.

On this southern Spain itinerary, the road to Seville passes through several pueblos blancos , so choose a few to stop at.

Situated in the foothills of the Sierra del Pinar mountain range, Grazalema is a village of Roman origin. It offers stunning views of the rocky, mountainous terrain around.

Zahara de la Sierra feels even more compact than Grazalema. With only one way into the town for cars and one way out, park your car at the entrance and walk up the small hill to the main plaza. You can drive through the town to get to the old Nazarí castle.

Have lunch at Cervecería El Gallo (Calle San Juan, 8) , where you can’t miss the saco de queso de cabra : goat’s cheese wrapped in filo pastry, fried and served with a red wine marmalade. Divine.

Afternoon / Evening

Arriving in Seville – a must-visit city on any southern Spain itinerary – check in to your hotel and get ready for the evening.

Seville is one of the best places to visit in Spain , so we have two nights planned here (although you could easily spend more time here and throw in a few day trips from Seville ).

Head to the Santa Cruz neighbourhood to visit the Cathedral . The largest gothic cathedral in the world, it is also Christopher Columbus’s final resting place . Climb Giralda, the bell tower, for views over Seville. The tower is over 90 metres high and 37 flights, but it’s a ramp rather than stairs, which is far easier to ascend! It’s a must-do on your Seville itinerary .

La Brunilda ( Calle Galera, 5) is a popular restaurant so you need to be at the door by about 7.45pm to join the queue (although they do now take reservations). I also loved the food at trendy La Azotea (Calle Conde de Barajas, 13) . Must-trys are the razor clams and braised beef cheeks.

I recommend trying as many of the tapas bars in Seville as you can squeeze in, and going to both modern and traditional bars.

No Andalucía itinerary is complete without seeing flamenco . Recognised as a hot spot for flamenco, check out a show while in Seville.

La Carbo nería ( Calle Céspedes, 21 ) is a good option. While it’s usually full of tourists, nothing feels staged: when we visited, three men sat at the front, almost hidden off to the side, one playing guitar, another clapping out a complex rhythm, the third dancing.

Where to stay in Seville

The best area to stay in Seville is the buzzing neighbourhood of Santa Cruz. It’s close to the main attractions and home to a number of boutique hotels:

• Casa del Poeta (Calle Don Carlos Alonso Chaparro) has a rooftop terrace with views of the cathedral | Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Expedia
• Hotel Amadeus (Calle Farnesio, 6 ) is a short walk from the Real Alcazar and the cathedral | Check rates and availability on Booking.com or Expedia

Seville has a population of just over 700,000 people but it feels much smaller. It’s easily walkable and there is so much to see and do here.

Stop for churros at Bar El Comercio (Calle Lineros, 9) , considered the best churros in Seville .

After you’ve fuelled up, start off the morning by visiting the Real Alcázar , the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid the queue that often stretches around the corner of the building. You can skip the queue with this guided tour .

Bullfighting is synonymous with Spain, so take a tour of the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza , the bullfighting ring. You can buy skip-the-line tickets online here .

Each visitor is given an audio guide that provides extensive detail about the ring and bullfighting, including the stories of some of Spain’s most famous and beloved bullfighters. If you’re visiting in March/April to October you can try to catch a bullfight, if that interests you (it’s not something for me).

Alternatively, visit the Casa de Pilatos . This an Andalucían palace is still occupied by the Dukes of Medinaceli. Adorned with beautiful tiles and well-kept gardens, it’s not as touristy as other sites so you may even have parts of it to yourself.

If you didn’t get to La Brunilda for dinner, now’s the time to try to get a table for lunch. Opt for a late lunch of patatas bravas  washed down with locally made cava.

Or head to El Rinconcillo (Calle Gerona, 40) . This is the oldest bar in Seville , and it’s been around since 1670. Try the jamón bellota , a ham made from black Iberian pigs that eat only acorns.

The cooler evening is a good time to venture over to the Plaza de España , a stunning, expansive plaza built in the 20s when Seville hosted the Ibero-American Exposition World’s Far.

Nearby Parque Maria Luisa provides even more respite from the heat. This large park is dotted with various types of trees, hidden fountains and tiled benches.

Tonight, go bar hopping to sample as many tapas as your stomach can hold. Some fun options for tapas restaurants in Seville  include:

• Bodega Santa Cruz , Calle Rodrigo Caro, 1A – here, the waiters write your order in chalk on the countertop
• Bodeguita Romero , Calle Harinas, 10 – a fun place we visited several times, trying different tapas each time

Distance: 141 kilometres Driving time: 1.5 hours

Morning / Afternoon

On the last day of your Andalucía road trip, rise early for the 1.5 hour drive to Córdoba. We only spent the day here, but there are many things to do in Córdoba .

La Mezquita is the old mosque, originally constructed in 785. A cathedral was built right in the middle of it in the 16th century. Wander through the candy-striped archways and admire the detailed ceilings. The mihrab , a prayer niche facing Mecca, is beyond words, and I spent most of my time gazing at the rich mosaics and details in the ceiling.

Not far from La Mezquita is the Calleja de las Flores , a small street and patio that is bedecked with pots of colourful flowers.

Head to the Roman Bridge for the afternoon light. Keen-eyed Game of Thrones fans will recognise this 2,000-year-old bridge as the Long Bridge of Volantis.

In Cordóba, we dropped off our rental car and took a fast train to Madrid , which saved us two hours of travel time. We ended our trip with 2 days in Madrid .

And just like that, after 7 days, more than 1,000 kilometres and countless tapas, our epic Spain road trip through Andalucía was over!

Alternative ideas: Stay the night in C órdoba and travel back to Madrid the following morning to cap off your one week in Spain.

Where to stay in Córdoba

If you decide to stay the night here, highly recommended hotels in Córdoba include:

• Balcon de Córdoba (Calle Encarnación, 8)  is a boutique hotel close to the best restaurants in the city | Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Hospes Palacio del Bailio (Calle Ramírez de las Casas Deza, 10-12)  is housed in a former 17 th century palace | Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• NH Collection Amistad Córdoba (Plaza Maimónides, 3)  is a renovated palace with stylish decor | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

No doubt, these 7  days in Spain have gone by quickly, but you’ll be left with lasting memories !

Southern Spain itinerary: Other places to visit in Andalucía

One week certainly isn’t enough to see everything in Andalucía. Here are some additional suggestions to add to this southern Spain travel itinerary if you have more than 7 days in Spain and want to extend your trip to 10 days in Spain or even 2 weeks in Spain:

• Málaga – a port city that is both modern and historic
• Cádiz – considered one of Spain’s most fun cities
• Jerez – the home of sherry
• Arcos de la Frontera – one of Andalucía’s most gorgeous pueblos blancos

Best time to visit Andalucía

Honestly, you can plan a trip to Spain for any time of the year.

Summers in Andalucía (June to early September) can be scorching, with temperatures over 40°C during the day. It’s also when many Spanish families pack up for their own holidays, so if you visit southern Spain at this time you may find restaurants, shops and attractions are closed. Check before you make your bookings.

We visited in June for this Southern Spain itinerary 7 days and the weather was lovely. The crowds were in full force but not as busy as I imagine it starts to get in July!

April, May, September and October are cooler and more pleasant . I think this is the best time to plan out this southern Spain itinerary. Keep in mind that Semana Santa (Easter) is a huge celebration, and hotels may be booked out months in advance.

March is considered a great month to visit as it’s shoulder season but the weather is still sunny.

If you’re visiting Spain in winter , temperatures can still be in the 20s, but bring warm layers anyway!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What would you add to this southern Spain itinerary? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below, I’d love to help you plan your trip!

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Spain travel blogs:

• Where to Find the Best Tapas in Seville: 7 Must-Visit Tapas Bars
• 2 Days in Seville: 10 Things You Must Add to Your Seville Itinerary
• 2 Days in Granada, Spain: Tasty Tapas, Historic Neighbourhoods and the Amazing Alhambra
• 13 Things To Do in Ronda, Spain: The Prettiest Town in Andalucía
• 12 Brilliant Day Trips From Seville
• Buying Tickets for the Alhambra: Everything you Need to Know (Including What to Do if They’re Sold Out!)

SPAIN TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around Spain online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in Spain. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• For train travel, Omio should be your starting point for checking routes and booking tickets.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Spain on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Spain will be handy, along with a Spanish language phrasebook .
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

SOUTHERN SPAIN ITINERARY: PIN IT FOR LATER

Save this Southern Spain itinerary to Pinterest so you can plan your Spain road trip soon!

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

14 thoughts on “Southern Spain Itinerary: The Best of Andalucía in 7 Days in 2024”

I’ve been dreaming to go to Spain, but I always believed that I need at least a month to properly explore the country’s main sights… until I read this post. It never crossed my mind that making multiple trips to Spain not only is more feasible for me since I only get 14 days off a year, but it also allows me to focus on one region at a time.

Absolutely! If you can find an affordable flight to Spain (or any region, really), it’s totally doable!!

Wow, Bec! Fantastic overview and recommendations. Made me want to do this road trip all over again! So happy you guys enjoyed it!

And thank YOU for all your amazing tips!!

I am really jealous of your spontaneous trip to Spain! Calleja de las Flores is beautiful and the churros looked like they were to die for. WERE THEY?!??!?! Yum.

Oh my god, I thought I was going to turn into a churro because I ate so many!! 🙂

I was in Andalusia about 10 years ago, and it definitely seems like I’m due back for a visit! Except this time by roadtripping, oh my goodness, seriously looks amazing!

YES! Get back there! And the road trip was great – so flexible, easy to get around (except for the parking, ha!!).

Will be in this region for 2 weeks in October and I can’t wait for the tapas. Thanks for the timely post. Checking out the Granada food tour now.

So, so good! I planned every day about where to eat!! 🙂 There are a couple of food tours in Granada so take your time to check them out. It depends what you want – the one I did was all local produce, but there are also other ones that focus just on tapas. Let me know if you have any questions!

I’m going to be in Andalusia next summer! This is perfect! 🙂

It’s so amazing!! Let me know if you have any questions 🙂

I was lucky enough to do a 3-week Spain road trip a couple of years ago. It was our first time travelling there, so we hit up all the major spots—but gosh, we missed out on so much! I definitely preferred the south to the north. Andalucia was my favourite region by far. I think I’ll do a route similar to this when I do eventually go back. Such a great post—thank you!

Right?! After visiting the north of Spain I didn’t think I could love the country any more – and then the south blew me away. Thanks for stopping by and look forward to your Andalucia posts when you get back there 🙂

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Southern Spain Itinerary: 7 Days Without A Car (2024)

If you’re planning your Southern Spain itinerary, 7 days is the perfect time to get a taste of the region.

Having backpacked through Spain multiple times, Andalucia stands out as one of my favorite regions in this vibrant country.

I love the unique blend of cultures, vibrant cities, and the laid-back southern way of living. 

Most people explore Andalucia on a road trip, but I traveled around Andalucia without a car. Public transport in Spain is great, and you can visit all the must-see places by train or bus!

If you’re ready to plan an itinerary for Southern Spain without a car, let’s get started!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

7 Days Southern Spain Itinerary At A Glance

Length : 7 days, 8 nights  Start And End Point : Start in Sevilla, end in Malaga CIties To Visit : Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, Malaga

• Day 1: Sevilla
• Day 2: Sevilla
• Day 3: Cordoba
• Day 4: Granada
• Day 5: Granada
• Day 6: Malaga
• Day 7: Malaga

You could also do this itinerary either way around, starting in Malaga or Seville , or simply returning where you started from.

I took a train from Madrid to Sevilla on my backpacking Spain route , so that’s why I started from there.

Both Sevilla and Malaga have large international airports, so it is easy to organize your flights if you’re coming from Europe.

It takes less than 3 hours to travel between Malaga and Sevilla by bus or train, so it won’t impact your itinerary that much.

You might wonder if you should visit Cordoba or Granada , but I say you should do both!

Let’s jump right in!

DAY 1 AND 2: Sevilla

You’ll start your Southern Spain trip from the vibrant city of Sevilla.

A must-visit in Andalucia, Sevilla perfectly encapsulates the essence of southern Spain and is an ideal starting point for your journey.

Sevilla is one of my favorite places in Spain and a place I would visit again and again on a short city break.

Best Things To Do In Sevilla, Andalucia

• Plaza de Espana
• The Real Alcázar de Sevilla
• Santa Cruz neighborhood

Start your day in Sevilla by exploring the city center.

Sevilla is a city where you can wander the streets, immersing yourself in its enchanting surroundings.

The most picturesque area is the narrow cobblestone streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood. 

Places you should not miss are Plaza de Espana , the largest Gothic Cathedral, and The Real Alcázar de Sevilla – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites !

You will want to book the Alcázar tour and Sevilla Cathedral tickets in advance, as both attractions get very busy in the high season!

The modern installation of Setas de Sevilla is a fun spot to visit, particularly popular for watching the sunset.

See Flamenco in Sevilla

When I think of Andalucia, I think of flamenco. 

Sevilla is known as a home to flamenco, and I was expecting to run into people dancing on the street all the time. 

The truth is most of the shows are private and you have to book in advance.

You can book your ticket for the best-rated Flamenco show in Sevilla here !

If you are on a budget, don’t despair – you can see flamenco for free in a couple of places !

One of them is at Plaza de Espagna . There, you will find people doing a free show for tips. 

The second one is La Carboneria . I highly recommend you check it out, take a drink, and enjoy flamenco. 

The place is very relaxed, and the drinks are cheap. It is truly a hidden gem in Sevilla, and it is a great place to discover Sevilla’s nightlife as a solo female traveler.

💃🏽 Book Flamenco Show In Seville!

Where To Stay In Sevilla

Budget options.

Onefam Catedral is the best backpacker hostel in Sevilla. 

It is located in the heart of Santa Cruz and they organize activities so you can meet other travelers.

I stayed in The Nomad hostel in Sevilla, as the first one was fully booked when I visited.

The hostel is centrally located, and it is affordable and comfortable. There was a rooftop bar, a communal kitchen, and a living room, making it a great hostel to meet other backpackers !

Splurge Option

It doesn’t get much better than Hotel Casa del Poeta .

This hotel with a rooftop pool in the heart of Sevilla will transport you back in time and make you feel like Andalucian royalty!

Vegan Restaurants In Sevilla

There are quite a few restaurants with vegan options in Sevilla. As always, use the Happy Cow app to find vegan options.

With a whopping 96 restaurants offering vegan options in Sevilla, you practically don’t have to worry about the food.

I visited two restaurants on this trip.

• The first one is Veganitessen . It is a fully vegan restaurant located inside the market with an interesting menu.
• The other place is Milk Away . They had vegan options, but it is not a fully vegan restaurant, and it was more like a “healthy food” spot for days when you feel like you need to be more healthy on the road!

DAY 3: Cordoba

The next stop on our backpacking Andalucia itinerary is Cordoba. 

Many people choose to visit Cordoba on a day trip from Sevilla. However, I feel like it deserves a whole day. 

You can take a bus from Sevilla to Cordoba. The bus ride was about 45 minutes. You could also take a train, but the bus was cheaper and it takes about the same time anyway.

Compare the prices and book your ticket from Sevilla to Cordoba here !

Best Things To Do In Cordoba, Andalucia

• Mezquita Cathedral de Cordoba
• Flower Patios
• Puente Romano Bridge

The main sight in Cordoba is a UNESCO World Heritage Site : Mezquita Cathedral de Cordoba .

I loved exploring the old town of Cordoba, with its charming cobblestone streets feels like getting lost in time.

Walk along the river across the Puente Romano bridge, and then back to the city. This route is especially charming at night when the city walls light up.

A fun fact about Cordoba is that people take really good care of their patios, so you can enjoy some pretty flowers as well.

Flower pots on the walls are somewhat of a symbol of the city as well.

Where To Stay In Cordoba

I stayed in Pension Internacional.  

I shared a private room with a bathroom with a friend, which ended up being cheaper than staying in a hostel. The Pension was centrally located, and it had air conditioning.

Vegan Restaurants In Cordoba

According to the Happy Cow app, there are currently no fully vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Cordoba. 

However, there are a couple of restaurants with vegan options. 

As it was already my third day in the region, I wanted to try some accidentally vegan Andalucian food.

One of them was Salamorejo . It is an accidentally vegan tomato and bread soup that they usually top with some non-vegan toppings, so you have to ask them not to put it.

I had salamorejo soup in Taberna San Miguel Casa el Pisto and it was delicious!

DAY 4 AND 5: Granada

From Cordoba, you will take a 3-hour bus to Granada. 

You could also take a train, but the bus was cheaper, and there was no significant difference in the duration of the trip.

Compare the prices and book your ticket from Cordoba to Granada here !

Best Things To Do In Granada, Andalucia

• Alhambra of Granada
• Albayzin neighborhood
• Hiking in the Sierra Nevada

The main tourist attraction is Alhambra of Granada. It is incredible and it should not be missed. 

Alhambra is a popular site, so you need to book the tickets in advance, and you are only allowed to enter at the time indicated on your ticket. 

You do not need to book a guided tour if that’s not your thing, you can simply just get an Alhambra entrance ticket .

If all non-guided tickets are sold out for the day you’re visiting, booking this guided Alhambra tour is an excellent way around it.

However, there’s more to Granada than just Alhambra. The architecture in the city is one of the prime examples of Islamic influence in the region. 

Albayzin neighborhood, the medieval Moorish district, is the most picturesque quarter in Granada. It is very characteristic and great for getting lost in the streets.

I stumbled upon a girl playing guitar and singing on one of the streets, and ti was such a great atmosphere as more people gathered to listen.

If you appreciate a good viewpoint as much as I do, the best spot to watch the sunset is Mirador de San Nicolas.

Hiking in Granada, Sierra Nevada

If you like hiking, you should consider staying longer than two days in Granada. 

Granada is the best base for hikes in the Sierra Nevada mountain region.

There are a couple of hikes that can be done using public transport. I suggest you check out this guide on Hikes accessible by public transport to see your options!

Join A Hiking Tour In Sierra Nevada!

Where To Stay In Granada 

El Granado Hostel is the best backpacker hostel in Granada. 

Alternatively, you can go for a family-run accommodation like Casa Vestali .

I stayed in one with a friend, as it was cheaper for us to book a private room than two hostel beds.

Vegan Restaurants In Granada

After no vegan restaurants in Cordoba, I was worried about the situation in Granada. However, Granada is a great destination for vegans and there were so many options.

The Happy Cow app showed almost 70 places with at least vegan options, so I checked out a couple of places. 

• Papas Elvira is a small place but with many vegan options. I tried empanadas, because I have never had them before, and they were tasty!
• The Good Burger chain had a vegan burger option. However, the burger was overpriced and tiny. I would not recommend it.
• Wild Food r estaurant offers a fine dining experience. I tried several of their cakes, and they were amazing! Highly recommended!

DAY 6 AND 7: Malaga

You’ll finish your South of Spain itinerary with a visit to Malaga.

You can see all the main tourist attractions in Malaga in 1 day, and the second day you can spend enjoying Costa del Sol beaches or going for a hike!

Best Things To Do In Malaga, Andalucia

•  Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle
• Picasso Museum
• Caminito del Rey

Malaga is the birthplace of the famous artist Picasso, so if you like art, you have to visit the Picasso Museum.

If you are on a budget Malaga Museum is free, and you can see some of Picasso’s art there!

I suggest hiking up to Mirador de Gibralfaro. It is a great viewpoint to see the whole of Malaga.

Malaga is a great base to explore the rest of Costa del Sol, so that is what I am going to suggest to you. 

Beaches In Malaga

I must be honest, I did not like Playa de la Malagueta too much. It was too close to the large port for my liking. 

However, I am from a small coastal town in Croatia, so I have quite high standards for beaches.

Still, if you are staying in Malaga you could easily do a day trip to some of the smaller towns with better beaches. They are not the cheapest European beach towns , but they are not super expensive either!

Some of the best beaches near Malaga are in Nerja.

Day Trips From Malaga

Malaga is a great base for day trips. With 2 days in Malaga, you can go on a day trip to Ronda or Caminito del Rey. 

If you want to do the Caminito del Rey hike, be sure to book it in advance. 

I tried booking a week before I was supposed to be in Malaga, and all the good entrance slots were already booked. I was not willing to hike at 14h in 30 degrees heat.

If you don’t have a car, the simplest way to get to Caminito del Rey is to join the Caminito del Rey bus tour from Malaga .

Where To Stay In Malaga 

I stayed in two different hostels in Malaga. 

The first one I would not recommend. Therefore, I will not link it. I will use this opportunity to remind you to read the reviews.

The second hostel I stayed at was The Urban Jungle Hostel . The hostel had a cool rooftop bar and great location, but there was no kitchen and the bathrooms didn’t have a proper door.

Vegan Restaurants In Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a big city. Therefore, there were many vegan options. Happy Cow said almost 80 places with at least vegan options. 

Yet, sometimes when faced with many choices, we tend to make mistakes. Therefore, I only have two places to recommend out of those I tried out.

• Recyclo Bike Cafe had a couple of nice, vegan lunch options that were pretty affordable. 
• Restaurante Japones Udon Malaga had a couple of vegan dishes on their menu, including a delicious Udon dish!

More Places To Visit In Andalucia

As you can see, you don’t need to choose between Seville and Granada , as you have plenty of time to visit both cities even with just a week in the region!

If you have more time to spend exploring Andalucia, there are a couple of destinations that I would put on the itinerary. 

• Cadiz is a beachside town famous for surfing and its history.
• Gibraltar is feasible as a day trip from Malaga and you can add a visit to another “country” to your list.
• Ronda is quite an impressive town, and also one of the day trips I would consider taking from Malaga.
• Pueblos Blancos , the whitewashed villages are a fun day trip if you rent a car in Andalucia .

How To Get Around Andalucia Without A Car

You don’t need to rent a car when visiting the South of Spain.

Spain is one of the best European countries for backpackers , and Andalucia is well connected by an extensive network of buses and trains.

It is possible to reach virtually every notable tourist destination by reliable public transport, which is perfect for backpacking Andalucia on a budget.

You can book your tickets online or at the stations, and I suggest you do it in advance because the prices get higher closer to the travel date.

I use this website to book and compare bus and train tickets between different operators, to make sure that I’m getting the best deal!

Budget For One Week In Andalucia

Andalucia is not one of the most expensive areas in Europe , but it is not as cheap as Eastern Europe. 

Your budget will mainly depend on when you decide to visit since the prices tend to fluctuate seasonally. 

The currency in Spain is the euro.

I budgeted around 50 – 70€ per day for backpacking Andalucia in the summer.

That covered accommodation in hostels and pensions (it is like a budget version of a hotel, usually run by a family), food, transportation, entry tickets, and free walking tours . 

Depending on your travel style, it might be higher or lower.

Is Andalucia Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

I felt as safe in Andalucia as in any other European country. That means as long as you keep an average level of awareness, you should be fine. 

Pickpocketing is common in big cities, so keep an eye on your valuables. It is safe to walk around with your camera and a phone out because everybody does that.

I felt safe walking around at night since the streets were busy until late evening. 

Don’t Make These Travel Mistakes!

Learn the most common travel mistakes, and what to do instead!

Summary: Andalucia Itinerary 7 Days

This 7 day Southern Spain itinerary covers all the must-see spots in Andalucia – from colorful Sevilla to magical Alhambra and sandy beaches along Costa del Sol.

However, it still gives you the flexibility to spend more or less time at each destination and add other places to the itinerary.

Day trips to Gibraltar, surfing in Tavira, or picturesque Pueblos Blancos are more fun experiences to consider when backpacking Andalucia . 

So, where are you going after Andalucia? You can continue your trip to the north to Madrid or Barcelona on the coast!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Southern Spain 2-Week Itinerary: A Road Trip Through Andalucía

Created On: August 7, 2022   |   Updated: January 27, 2023   |   7 Comments

Planning a trip to Andalucía? This southern Spain 2-week itinerary will take you through the best cities and towns in Andalucía. Even better, you can get to all the places via train if you don’t want to rent a car!

Madrid and Barcelona may be the best known cities in Spain, but my heart belongs in Andalucía!

After the Muslims invaded Spain in 711 AD, they called the southernmost part of the country “Al-Andalus.” Near the end of Reconquista — a war between the Christians and the Muslims to gain total control of Spain that spanned seven centuries — Al-Andalus was the last remaining portion of the country that still belonged to the Muslims.

The centuries spent under Muslim rule has imbued the entirety of present day Andalucía with a unique culture you won’t find elsewhere. In each city of Andalucía, you’ll find mosques-turned-churches, stunning Mudejar architecture, and a cuisine that combines ingredients and flavors from both cultures.

While you could plan a 2-week trip to Spain anywhere you’d like, I highly recommend spending your time exploring Andalucía. 2 weeks in southern Spain will give you a taste of Spanish culture as a whole while offering a more nuanced experience wholly unique to Andalucía.

Below is a Spain itinerary for 14 days. I’ve gone into as much detail as possible about what to do in Andalucía, but you’ll notice that I’ve included links to my detailed city guides as well — otherwise this blog post will turn into an e-book!

How Many Days Do You Need in Spain?

In a perfect world, we’d all be able to spend 3+ months in Spain to fully immerse ourselves in the culture and see the main sights. However, that’s not how life works and I know your vacation time is limited.

2 weeks in Spain is just enough time to see three to six cities and towns — the exact number depends on how many activities you pack into your days and the size of cities you visit. (This itinerary comfortably fits five major cities in Southern Spain!)

I’ll focus solely on the main cities in Andalucía in this itinerary. I’m of the opinion that it’s better to focus on one specific area rather than waste time traveling from one end of the country to another just to see the big cities.

You could of course adjust this itinerary to spend just one week in Spain if that’s all the time you have. If that’s the case, I think your best call would be to visit Seville and Granada if you’ve never been to either!

What’s the Best Time to Visit Spain?

I recommend planning a trip to Andalucía during shoulder season (March / April or September through November) . I visited southern Spain at the end of May, thinking I’d beat the worst of the crowds and would experience cooler temperatures. Wrong! It was 90ºF+ most days and major attractions, like the Alhambra in Granada, were packed with people.

The next time I visit Spain, I plan on going in the early spring!

Overview of This Spain 2-Week Itinerary

You’ll note that I didn’t include Barcelona or Madrid in this southern Spain 2-week itinerary. You can OF COURSE visit one or both of these cities, but I prefer to travel a little slower these days. If I’m going to go to Barcelona or Madrid, I’d rather have at least 5 full days in each place — which would have eaten into most of my 2-week trip to Spain!

So know that there are no itinerary police holding you accountable. Travel wherever you want, but I think this is the best 2-week Spain itinerary for those of you (like me!) who want to visit lots of different cities and see a variety of sights without having to run yourself into the ground each day.

All that being said, here’s an overview of this 2-week Andalucía itinerary:

• Days 1 – 3: Málaga
• Days 4 – 6: Granada
• Days 7 – 8: Córdoba
• Days: 9 – 10: Ronda
• Days 11 – 13: Seville

Day 14 has been left blank to account for travel between cities. It’s better to have a little wiggle room in case your arriving flight is delayed, you miss your train, etc.

Where Should You Start and End a 2-Week Trip to Spain?

This southern ​​Spain 2-week itinerary begins in Málaga and ends in Seville. You could also flip flop the itinerary if you find better flight prices flying into one city versus the other.

Or, you may find it easier and cheaper to fly into Madrid and then drive or take the train to Málaga to start your 14 days in Spain. That will obviously add on time and eat into your trip, but sometimes needs must!

Car, Bus, or Train? How to Get Around Southern Spain

Most itineraries I referenced for planning 2 weeks in Spain suggested renting a car to traverse Andalucía. They said it was easier and quicker to do so, but I had zero desire to spend extra money on a rental car, nor did I want to deal with parking in foreign cities on my own.

I was worried that taking a train around southern Spain would prove confusing or time-consuming, but it was actually so incredibly easy and affordable!

From my personal experience, I can assure you that this 2-week Spain itinerary can absolutely be done by train! The longest train journey is just under 3 hours, and it will be at the end of your trip.

Note that many of the trains leave either first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. I recommend boarding the morning trains (none require you to get up ridiculously early, don’t worry!).

Also, you should plan to arrive at the train stations 20 to 30 minutes before departure. In Spain, you’re required to go through a quick security check before boarding your train. They’ll X-Ray your suitcase and check your ticket, and then you’re off!

Lastly, please note that I walked from the central train stations to each of my hotels and AirBNBs. So know that the train stations of each city listed in this 2-week Andalucía itinerary are very close to the city centers!

Best Way to Book Train Tickets in Spain

The Renfe website (i.e. the Spanish railway’s official website) is an absolute nightmare to use. Every time I tried to book a ticket, the site crashed.

Save yourself a major headache and book your train tickets through a third-party provider like Omio . I did manage to book a couple tickets through Renfe after much hair-pulling, as I noticed that Renfe sometimes had additional train times listed that weren’t shown on the Omio site. So check both sites, but book through Omio if possible.

Of course, you can also wait to book your tickets in person at the train stations. There are ticket machines everywhere and they’re easy to use. The prices may be more expensive day-of, but it would give you the flexibility to alter your itinerary if that’s important to you.

Southern Spain 2-Week Itinerary

I’ve already given quite a few tips for making the most of your 2 weeks in Southern Spain, but here are a few quick reminders before I FINALLY dive into the full itinerary.  

First and foremost, you can get to all of the cities mentioned on this itinerary via train. No need to rent a car!

Second, you can mix and match this itinerary as you see fit.

Thirdly, I’ve given broad overviews of each day’s activities but have linked to my ultra detailed city guides in each portion of the itinerary. Read those posts for more information on the individual attractions. I wanted this itinerary to be, well, an itinerary (i.e. a broad overview of how to plan a 2-week trip to Spain).

Spain Itinerary Days 1 – 3: Málaga

One of the gems of southern Spain, Málaga is a gorgeous port city that boasts one of the biggest and best preserved Old Towns I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Málaga is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas, and the locals are very proud of their famous sons!

Of all the places in Andalucía, Málaga is one of the better ones for understanding how the Romans, Muslims, and Catholics shaped the region’s culture. The absolute top attractions in Málaga are undoubtedly the beautiful cathedral, the Alcazaba, and Gibralfaro Castle.

Below is a bulleted itinerary for 3 days in Málaga, but you can read LOTS more about the specific attractions in my full Málaga city guide . 

Day 1 in Malaga

Free walking tour — Malaga Adventures has a detailed 3-hour, free walking tour of the city center. This is the best way to learn about the history of the city, plus it gives you a chance to ask a local for restaurant and activity recommendations!

Cathedral and rooftop  (shown above) — Nicknamed La Manquita (little lady with one arm), Málaga’s cathedral took more than 200 years to get to its current state … and it was never finished! It’s one of the most stunning cathedrals I’ve visited, and I highly recommend paying extra to climb to the rooftop for an unparalleled view of both the unfinished cathedral and the city center.

Malaga Museum — Housed in what was originally the city’s customs house, the Malaga Museum is a small but impressive museum that boasts a variety of art and artifacts meant to give visitors a closer look into the city’s past.

Explore the Old Town — After packing your brain with key historic facts, enjoy window shopping getting lost in the Old Town! Calle Marqués de Larios is one of the most expensive shopping streets in all of Spain, and there are many more side streets to discover.

Day 2 in Malaga

Alcazaba  (shown above) — A former Muslim fortress that was built in the 11th century as a means of defending the port. The interior of the fortress has lots of hidden gardens and babbling fountains, and is a surprisingly peaceful place to visit.

Roman Theater — Built by the Romans in the 1st Century BCE, the Roman Theater is now in ruins. The city has built platforms over the ruins so you can walk directly over them and get a sense of how the theater must have operated in its heyday.

Gibralfaro Castle — Gibralfaro Castle was built in the 1300s to improve the city’s defenses. Like the Alcazaba, the castle was built by the Muslims. The views from the castle’s parapets are absolutely stunning!

Picasso Museum — The perfect place to escape the afternoon heat! Picasso was born in Málaga, and this museum owns more than 230 of his works of art. If Picasso doesn’t pique your interest, I can also highly recommend the Carmen Thyssen Museum as an alternative.

Day 3 in Malaga

Muelle Uno  (shown above)— A section of the port of Málaga that’s been transformed into an open-air shopping and dining center.

Playa de la Malagueta – The local beach! It can become crowded in the summer, so arrive early to claim a spot. You can spend the morning here, or the entire day. OR enjoy a walk along the sand before continuing with the attractions below.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas — A covered market in the city center with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood and meats, dried fruits, and almonds. Grab some fresh fruit, almonds, and other nibbles here to take with you to the gardens!

La Concepcion Botanical Gardens — An underrated Málaga attraction! The gardens are located on the historic La Concepcion. After touring the various gardens, I recommend finding a spot in the shade to enjoy your snacks from the market and maybe read a book or call home, if desired.

Spain Itinerary Days 4 – 6: Granada

Granada was ruled by the Muslims for centuries and was the last city in Spain to fall back into the hands of the Catholic monarchy in 1492. Granada is home to one of the top tourist attractions in all of Spain: the Alhambra.

Many people visit Granada as a day trip from Seville or Málaga, but I don’t recommend doing that as there’s SO much more to do and see than simply tour the Alhambra.

Below you’ll find an itinerary for 3 days in Granada. For more details on the individual attractions listed below, check out my full Granda city guide .

Day 1 in Granada

Cathedral — Built on the site of the Great Mosque following the Catholic reconquest of Spain. The cathedral contains a unique blend of architectural styles, but it was built mostly in the style of the Spanish Renaissance.

Guided walking tour —  Granada has a long history, which you won’t learn about simply by visiting the main tourist attractions. Walk in Granada offers a more traditional pay-what-you-want walking tour, as well as a walking tour of Albaicin and Sacromonte. Choose whichever interests you more!

Sacromonte / Albaicín  (shown above) — The “Old Town” areas of Granada directly facing the Alhambra. They’re mostly residential, but there are many white-washed alleyways to meander through as well as scenic overlooks ( Miradors ) offering up spectacular views of the city.

Bañuelo — An 11th century Arabic hammam (bath house) that’s been beautifully preserved.

Sunset — Most itineraries say to watch the sunset from Mirador San Nicolas, but it fills up quickly and is noisy and crowded. Instead, watch the sunset from Mirador de la Vereda de Enmedio, Mirador Placeta de Carvajales, or Mirador Sacromonte.

Day 2 in Granada

Alhambra  (shown above)— The top attraction in Granada! It’s a massive complex that was originally built in the 9th century as a military fortress, but it was expanded upon over the centuries to also serve as the royal residence.

Rest! — Even if you visit first thing in the morning, you’ll be wiped after walking for hours around the Alhambra complex in the sunshine. Schedule a rest period into your day to ensure you don’t become overheated. (Seriously, please do this! Even if it’s just relaxing at a cafe for an hour with a cold drink.)

Window shop and explore some more — Popular shopping streets include the Reyes Catolicos, Carrera del Darro, and Calle Calderería Nueva. If you’re up for a little adventure, try to find a local convent or monastery selling sweets! (Check out my full Granada guide linked above for info on where I bought my convent cookies.)  

Flamenco show — You can’t leave Granada without attending an authentic flamenco show in the caves of Sacromonte! The local style of flamenco is called Zambra, and the entire performance is absolutely electrifying.

Day 3 in Granada

Carmen de los Mártires  (shown above)  — A stunning 19th century mansion with a sprawling park and garden complex.

San Jeronimo Monastery —The first monastery to be built in Granada after the reconquest of Spain by the Catholic monarchy.

Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (“La Cartuja”) — A lavishly decorated Spanish Baroque church atop a hill just outside the city center. Emphasis on “lavishly decorated.” This place is insanely beautiful! If you don’t have the time or desire to visit both monasteries on today’s itinerary, pick this one over San Jeronimo.

Spain Itinerary Days 7 – 8: Córdoba

Córdoba was formerly the capital of Islamic Spain and was also once the largest and most advanced city in all of Europe. Today Córdoba is best known for its Mosque-Cathedral, “La Mezquita,” which integrated the original mosque architecture with the Christian cathedral built on the site.

There are enough attractions in Córdoba to fill two leisurely days of adventuring, but one full day will also give you enough time to see the main sights. If you want to alter this itinerary for 2 weeks in Southern Spain, this is one place you could do it.

For more information on the Córdoba attractions listed below, check out my full Córdoba city guide.

Day 1 in Córdoba

Mosque-Cathedral ( Mezquita ) — A former Islamic mosque that was converted into a Catholic cathedral in the 13th century. The original mosque architecture has been integrated into the cathedral, rather than destroyed and built over.

Flower Street — A quaint white-washed alleyway near the Mezquita lined with bright blue flower pots. A great photo opp!

Roman Bridge (+ Calahorra Tower, if desired) — The Puente Romano was first built in the 1st century by the Romans. The view from the opposite bank makes for a great photo! Calahorra Toweris a fortified gate along the bridge that now houses the Museo Vivo de Al-Andalus.  

Alcazar of the Catholic Monarchs — A fortress that also served as a palace. It’s where the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella lived for eight years during the Reconquista. The interior of the fortress isn’t anything to write home about, but the gardens are beautiful!

Almodóvar Gate — One of only three remaining medieval city gates. Walk through the gate to reach the former Jewish Quarter, where there are lots of shops and restaurants.

Day 2 in Córdoba

Palacio de Viana  (shown above)— A 15th century palace with 12 stunning patios (the lush inner courtyards that Córdoba is known for!).

Templo Romano — Ruins of what was once the largest Roman temple in the city.

Plaza de las Tendillas — Nearby square with a fountain and pretty cafes.

Window shopping in the Old Town b— Return to the Old Town to shop, grab a drink, or enjoy an afternoon siesta back at your hotel.

Plaza de Corredera — A residential square with bars and cafes at street level. It’s fairly quiet during the daytime, but at night it’s packed with locals all chatting over their drinks. This is a relaxed, family-friendly spot, not a party destination!

Spain Itinerary Days 9 – 10: Ronda

Ronda is one of the prettiest towns in all of Spain! The Old Town is set high above the El Tajo Gorge and connects to the modern part of the town via the 322-high Puente Nuevo bridge. This was one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunts, and the town’s iconic bridge is said to have inspired scenes in his novel, For Whom the Bell Tolls.  

Like Córdoba, you could get away with one full day in Ronda if there are other cities you’re dying to pack into your 2 week-trip to Andalucía. However, my two days in Ronda were some of the most magical of my entire 2 weeks in Spain! The town’s small size makes it perfect to explore at your leisure.

For lots more detail on the Ronda attractions I’ve shared below, read my full guide to Ronda .

Day 1 in Ronda

Bullring — The oldest and largest in all of Spain.

Mirador de Ronda overlook (shown above, right) — Near the bullring. It’s a gorgeous vista with views of the surrounding countryside.

Puente Nuevo  (shown above, left) — The main attraction of Ronda. Words can’t describe how beautiful this bridge is! (In my full guide linked above, I’ve also shared my favorite spots to photograph the bridge.)

Murallas de la Cijara (old city walls) — The best preserved section of the old city walls is near the Puerta de la Cijara.

Arab baths — 13th century Arab baths that have been lovingly preserved and restored.

Walking tour — End your first day in Ronda with a guided walking tour of the Old Town. The tourism board offers a 90-minute tour that I highly recommend!

Day 2 in Ronda

Jardines De Cuenca — Lovely hanging gardens on terraces set over the El Tajo gorge, facing the bridge. This is a good spot to come in the morning to photograph the sun rising over the bridge!  

Puente Viejo — Another pretty (albeit less impressive) bridge in Ronda.  

Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor — The inside of the church isn’t that impressive, but the viewing decks from the rooftop offer an amazing view of the Old Town and surrounding countryside.

Casa Museo Don Bosco — An old home-turned-sanatorium that operated until 2008. The home is very small, but the gardens with their cliffside views are the main attraction.

Sunset — You could watch the sunset by the Puente Nuevo bridge, but I recommend finding a quiet spot to sit at the Plaza de María Auxiliadora.

Spain Itinerary Days 11 – 13: Seville

Seville flourished under Muslim rule and rose to further prominence under the Catholic monarchy following the discovery of the Americas. Much of Spain’s trade with the Americas was facilitated in Seville, making it the country’s richest city for nearly 100 years.

Seville is the most diverse city on this southern Spain 2-week itinerary, both in terms of attractions and the local culture. It’s also the biggest city on this itinerary, so if you have the time and desire you can certainly spend more days here either to explore the city more in depth or to take day trips.

Read my full Seville itinerary for more details on the attractions listed below!   

Day 1 in Seville

Royal Alcazar — A palace complex originally built by the Muslims to offer them a more strategic position next to the port (i.e. where the city’s wealth flowed in). Arrive first thing in the morning to avoid waiting in a long line.

Cathedral  (shown above, left)— The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the third largest in general!

Giralda Tower — The symbol of Seville! La Giralda was originally the minaret of the mosque that stood on this site. In the 17th century, the cathedral’s bell tower was built atop the minaret.

Maria Luisa Park — Palace gardens that were donated to the city and transformed into a sprawling public park. The park is divided into smaller gardens and gathering areas, making it a fun spot to explore.

Plaza de España  (shown above, right)— End your day here to watch the sunset! The Plaza de España was built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929 and was designed to showcase Spain’s accomplishments in industry and architecture.

Day 2 in Seville

Setas de Sevilla  (shown above)— A wooden structure in Encarnacion Square that has a walkway and viewing platform on top. If it’s not in your budget to ascend to the viewing platform, the structure is still really cool when seen from below.

Lebrija Palace — A 16th century palace that was heavily renovated in the 20th century to accommodate a private collection of ancient Roman mosaics. If you love house museums, you MUST come here!

Collegiate Church of El Salvador — A pretty Baroque church that was built on the site of what was the Great Mosque in Muslim Seville.

Museum of Fine Arts — An art museum housed in the former La Merced convent. This is a great spot to end the afternoon as a means of escaping the heat!

Day 3 in Seville

Walking Tour of Triana — The free Sandemans walking tour of Triana offers a unique perspective on Seville’s 2,000-year history.

Mercado de Triana — A covered market selling fresh produce and seafood. There are also restaurants inside, which is where I recommend grabbing lunch today.

Archivo de Indias — Free to enter! The Archives of the Indies houses 80 million pages and maps (all original!) relating to Spain’s massive empire from the 18th to 19th centuries.

Casa de Pilatos  (shown above)— A 15th century palace decorated with  azulejo (Spanish glazed tiles).

Free time to explore! — Seville is walkable, and there’s a lot packed into the city center. Give yourself some free time to wander the streets and enjoy your final afternoon in Spain.

Adios, Andalucía!

Hopefully this southern Spain 2-week itinerary have given you plenty of information — and then some! — to make planning your vacation easier. If you have any questions about planning a trip to Andalucía, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below!

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to keep up with my daily adventures in Berlin and beyond!

More Places to Visit in Southern Europe: 

• 3-Day Florence Itinerary: The Best Things to Do! 
• Best Things to Do in Corfu, Greece
• What to Do & See in Athens, Greece
• All of my Europe travel recommendations! 

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Comments & Reviews

October 18, 2022

Do you commercially run such tours? We are on the wrong side of 65 (esposa/mi) and never been to Europe. I enjoyed reading your summary. I’ve been put off some “tours” by people complaints. Cost is also a factor, many seem for royalty we’d feel uncomfortable in such company. I say this if we decide to do less with quality but the upper middle class would be far to… Regards Tony

November 9, 2022

Hi Tony, no, I do not provide any kind of travel planning or tour services. Right now I just provide awesome, free guides online right here on my blog 🙂 Hopefully you’re able to visit Spain soon though!

May 20, 2023

Very impressive, thanks for sharing!

December 16, 2023

Awesome , information . What hotels do you recommend? We are planning to do this in March.

December 29, 2023

Hi Sonia! How exciting that you’ll be visiting southern Spain in March, I think you’ll have an amazing time! Unfortunately I can’t recommend any specific hotels because I stayed in AirBNBs throughout my stay. However, let me know if you’d like general recommendations for areas of the cities to stay in and I can provide info on the neighborhoods I was in.

May 20, 2024

Southern Spain 2-Week Itinerary: A Road Trip Through Andalucía Was a great read! My partner n I are planning visiting the same towns so it was most informative. We have booked for end of September but I am finding it impossible to get any train or bus schedules at this time. I checked the train sites you recommended but there are no schedules yet so I was wondering if they only post a few weeks or a month in advance? Any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

May 21, 2024

Hi Darlene! I’m so glad you found this guide useful — enjoy your trip! Spanish train tickets typically go on sale around 60 days in advance, so that’s likely why you’re not seeing anything online yet.

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The Ultimate 2-Weeks Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

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Spain is the second most visited country in Europe with more than 65 million visitors per year. This southern European destination is especially attractive to tourists for its extensive Mediterranean coastline with white sand beaches and mild temperatures year-round, its delicious food (did anyone say paella?!), the friendly locals, and let’s be honest, the relatively affordable prices (compared to other European destinations) don’t hurt anyone either!

But that’s not all that Spain has to offer, a few kilometres north from Granada’s coastline you’ll find Sierra Nevada, with the highest mountain peak in Peninsular Spain, and a beloved ski destination in the winter time. And all the Roman ruins along the Malaga region are a sight not to be missed. Spain’s rich mixed cultural heritage can be seen in all aspects of Spanish culture and society. The Celtic traditions in the northernmost points of the peninsula (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria…), the Easter parades in the centre and south of the country, and many more aspects can be grasped just by getting off the beaten paths.

With that in mind, we planned the ultimate 2-Weeks Southern Spain road trip Itinerary. Allowing the traveller to see and enjoy as much as possible the stunningly beautiful landscapes, culture and history the southern regions of Spain have to offer. This road trip itinerary can be completed in as little as 8 days (or as long as you please). And it covers around 1600 Km, 5 hotels, and countless memories that you will cherish forever. This is a road trip itinerary around southern and central Spain I would recommend to anyone wanting to see more than just the tip of the iceberg.

Madrid – Cuenca [170 KM]

The first stop of the ultimate 2-weeks southern Spanish Road trip itinerary is Cuenca, a small (55K inhabitants) beautiful city bathed by the waters of the rivers Júcar and Huécar. Popular for its quirky architecture, the breathtaking (literally in my case!) San Paul’s Bridge, and its Manchegan cuisine, is the perfect start to this trip.

Cuenca – (Albacete) – Baéza [350 KM]

With a pit stop half way in Albacete, we made our way to Baéza . UNESCO World Heritage site for its incredibly well preserved 9th-century architecture. It’s hard not to appreciate the beauty of a place where even the old courthouse and jail are as stunning as every other building around. And the views from our hotel, definitely worth getting lost looking for it.

Baéza – Granada [138 KM]

658 Km later we reached our first big stop, Granada. Famous for its breathtakingly beautiful Moorish palace of La Alhambra , the still reminiscent Almohad influence in the Albayzin neighbourhood’s architecture, its proximity to the Mediterranean sea and the Tropical coast of Spain, and the wowing neighbouring Sierra Nevada national park. Needless to say, Granada is far from boring.

Granada – (Málaga) – Ronda [250 KM]

Instead of going the easy and fast way and simply following the highway, we suggest taking the coastal road. This allows you to stop here and there whenever you want and explore the region. You’ll be glad you did! If you follow the route known as “Sugar cane route” you’ll get to see the tropical coast in all its glory. Not the prettiest but definitely makes you appreciate what you have.

Lunchtime in Málaga with a well-deserved walk on the beach. I can’t recommend enough to find a small local restaurant and order a plate of Langostinos with a chilled beer! After lunch and a stroll around Malaga’s historic city centre, it’s time to drive off to the Costa del Sol route direction Marbella.

Clubs, resorts and luxury hotels everywhere you look. Not the prettiest of sights if what you enjoy is nature but surprisingly, the best beaches are in this stretch between Marbella and Estepona. Short after Marbella, turn left back into the country. Next stop: Ronda!

Surprisingly, Ronda wasn’t in the original Spain road trip itinerary, but thanks to a very last minute turn of events here we decided to add it in. One of the rainiest areas in Europe (YES! you read that right!) in the heart of one of the most beloved sun destinations.

This small city is part of the renowned “white towns of Andalusia “ (Pueblos Blancos de Andalucía). It is also home to the oldest bullring, as well as the oldest cavalry armoury in Spain (1573). On top of that, the food is incredible, the architecture is a work of art and it is surrounded by nature. Hard to beat !

There’s so much to do in this little place. From hiking down to the river to strolling up to the top of the highest viewpoint around, or simply enjoying the views from the promenade. Definitely one of the highlights of this road trip through southern Spain.

Ronda – Córdoba [169 KM]

Driving further into the countryside, among endless rows of Olive trees, is Córdoba. One of my all-time favourites in the south of Spain and beauty on itself. Hard to compete with world-famous Granada, Cordoba has nothing to envy from its neighbour . With stunning architecture, centuries-long history, and its own unique character, Córdoba is a must in every southern Spain trip. And here you can also find the most amazing Spanish omelette I’ve ever eaten (besides my mum’s of course!).

Córdoba – (Consuegra) – Madrid [397 KM]

The last stretch of the road trip has come. But is not over yet! On the way back to the initial point, Madrid, there’s one more stop. “In a village of La Mancha, the name of which I have no desire to call to mind…” well I’ll make an exception. The last stop of the trip through southern Spain is in the Manchegan town of Consuegra. Doesn’t ring a bell? Well, I’m not surprised. Other than 12 windmills from Cervantes’ time, there’s literally nothing there (sorry people of Consuegra, our lack of luck at finding a restaurant proves that). But if you go up to the mills, the views are simply amazing. An experience in the most Quijotesque style, I promise.

There isn’t a more perfect way to end the ultimate southern Spain road trip. Have you ever gone on a road trip through Spain before? Where did it take you?

The slow pace

Fantastic post and fantastic route! So looking forward to going back to Córdoba… Do you know that P. hasn’t been there yet? Uuuuunbelievable!

Henar - Wanderwings.com

Thanks! It was exhausting but amazing at the same time! And the best thing it can be customized, more or less days in each stop at your own desire! Cordoba is by far my favorite of these (followed closely by Ronda!) so you definitely NEED to take P. there soon 😀

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South Spain Road Trip - 7 Day Andalusia Itinerary

Michal Grupa

Planning the perfect South Spain road trip ? Our 7 day Andalusia itinerary delivers a bucket list level adventure for campervan enthusiasts (and not only!). These are our personal recommendations for the most beautiful beaches, top camp spots, scenic drives, unmissable cultural highlights and culinary delights.

Andalusia, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic ocean truly has it all. It’s an easily accessible holiday destination with a mild year-round climate, vibrant culture, rich history and tapas (!). It’s impossible to be bored here! The region also possesses the widest range of terrain, plant and animal life in all of Spain. Each new day of your Andalusia road trip introduces rapidly changing landscapes from turquoise Mediterranean waters to barren deserts, lush valleys, dense pine forests and high elevation alpine scenery. Ready to roll?

South Spain road trip map. Total driving time: 12h30, 1000km

Where to start your Andalusia road trip

Our recommendation is to road trip from Malaga. Malaga airport (AGP), the gateway to Costa del Sol, is serviced by direct flights from 130 cities in 35 countries. This is the ideal starting point of your Andalusia road trip.

Campervan hire in Seville is also a great choice for travellers flying into Seville airport (SVQ).

Day 1: Your Malaga road trip begins

Highlights:

• Ancient Roman amphitheater & La Alcazaba fortress 
• Tapas and a stroll in the historic quarter
• Sunset dip at Playa el Palo 

Driving time: 1hr, 25km

Kick off your Malaga road trip with a short drive to the city centre to discover a harmonious blend of history and modernity. Free street parking is scattered throughout the city, but it’s nearly impossible to find when needed. Your best cheap option are the paid blue zones.

Begin with a visit to the ancient Roman amphitheater (Teatro Romano de Málaga, the oldest monument in the city dating back to the 1st century A.D. From there, walk over to La Alcabaza, the 11th century Moorish fortress. Malaga is also the birthplace of master painter Pablo Picasso, try to make time to visit the museum - it’s superb.

It's Tapas time!

When hunger strikes, stroll around the historic centre in search of tapas, traditional small plates from the region. Malaga's food scene is thriving with numerous bars and restaurants for all budgets. On a hot day, go to El Pimpi and try the Ajo Blanco, a delightful chilled summertime soup made of skinned almond, garlic and vinegar otherwise known as white gazpacho.

Hop back in your campervan and point it towards Playa el Palo, Malaga's original fishing neighbourhood turned into a vibrant stretch of bars and restaurants. Wrap up the first day of your Malaga road trip with a dip in the Mediterranean to unwind after a busy day. 

Overnight at: Malaga Beach Area , a seaside camping area offering showers, free wi-fi, a small shop and a pet friendly beach.

Day 2: Beaches of Nerja and Costa de Almería

• Picturesque beaches of Nerja
• Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
• Whitewashed village of Níjar 

Driving time: 3h30, 275km

Pack up your gear and drive 30 minutes (45km) east to Nerja, a charming coastal town along your Southern Spain dotted with quaint little coves and some of the most beautiful sandy beaches of your Andalucia road trip. Don’t miss the iconic Playa de Burriana (Burriana Beach).

One of the many stunning beaches in Nerja, Spain

From Nerja enjoy a meandering 2 hour (200km) coastal drive to Níjar, an extremely picturesque whitewashed Moorish village. Nijar is a great place to watch real Spanish life pass by. There are plenty of reasonably priced bars and restaurants serving tapas and more.

Detour #1: Thermal springs (optional)

From our personal experience, one of Spain's unsung treasures are the many thermal springs adorning the road map, particularly the ones in the wild. One of the many in this area is found between Malaga and Granada by a dramatic mediaeval town Alhama da Granada, perched on the edge of a limestone gorge. You can pay to use the hotel's grounds and facilities for a more upmarket experience, or follow the river to find deliciously warm pools by the side of a gushing cold river. Note: This detour can be done later on in your South Spain road trip too!

Detour #2: Hippy van life mecca (optional)

If you’re not in a rush to get to Nijar and crave a complete change of scenery, head up the scenic A348 into the southern foothills of the Sierra Nevada towards Lanjaron. This small hillside spa town is famous for its natural spring water. There are free flowing water spouts in the town centre making it a great place to fill up your bottles and tank. From there, meander onwards and upwards to the town of Orgiva, nestled in orange trees with horizons of dramatic snow capped peaks in the distance. This place is a true mecca of all hippy van life wanderers and seekers of alternative lifestyles. It is also where the founders of Siesta met many moons ago. Sit in a bar here for too long and who knows what turns your life may take!

The next unmissable stop on your Andalucia road trip are the volcanic landscapes, cliffs and sandy beaches of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park in Spain’s southeastern corner. The arid desert climate is quite the sight against the turquoise backdrop of the Mediterranean. Savour the time spent here. Disconnect, wander, swim and listen to the sound of the wind.  

Overnight at: Camper Area Cabo de Gata , a comfortable, clean and quiet place near the park.

Day 3: Into the Sierra Nevada and Granada arrival

• La Alhambra fortress & Generalife gardens 
• Albaicin neighbourhood
• Free tapas? Yes!

Driving time: 2h, 180km

Resume your South Spain road trip with a 2 hour drive skirting the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains towards Granada, one of the crown jewels of Andalusia.

Detour #3: High altitude outdoor activities (optional)

During much of the year the Sierra Nevada is a great destination for hiking, mountain biking, climbing or paragliding. Our proposed detour offers active travellers unforgettable alpine scenery. Drive the route to Pico de Veleta, a 35 km journey from Vega de Granada to the peak of Pico at 3,392 metres. The route follows a well-kept paved road and is one of Europe's highest mountain roads. Warm clothing is recommended.

If you press on directly to Granada, La Alhambra is your first and unmissable stop. Seriously, you couldn’t miss it if you tried and you shouldn't - it’s breathtaking. This massive Moorish hilltop complex is made up of royal palaces, peaceful patios, reflecting pools, fountains and lush Generalife gardens. Perched atop Sabika Hill it offers stunning views over the city, mountains and surrounding countryside. The best way to discover Alhambra is with a guided tour. Tap the link for useful info.

Alhambra fortress in Granada, Spain

Next, climb up the hill to Albaycin and wander the narrow streets lined with old Arab houses. Catch a beautiful view of Alhambra fortress from the Mirador de San Nicolás - the most popular viewpoint in Granada. The hill is quite steep but well worth the effort (shoes recommended). Alternatively, you can get to the top of Albaycin via red mini buses that stop at Plaza Isabel Catolica near the Cathedral.

After a full day of wandering, you’re sure to work up an appetite and you cannot leave Granada without a tapas binge. The city is one of the few still serving free tapas! Bars throughout the city offer tapas free of charge with any drink purchased. Try the retro-chic Papaupa, offering delicious tapas for vegans, veggies and meat-eaters. The empanadas are bangin’.

Overnight at: Area Camper Granada , a well-located and affordable spot with a delicious on-site bakery. Flat pitch, power, water, grey and black disposal.

Day 4: Seville, the capital of Andalusia 

• Alcázar Palace & Seville Cathedral
• Cooking class at Mercado de Triana
• Discover the art of Flamenco

Driving time: 2h30, 250km

Next up, Seville - the largest and arguably most intriguing city in your Andalucia road trip was said to have been built by Hercules himself!

Park here: Aparcamiento Paseo de Colón . It’s super centrally located so you can visit all the highlights on foot.

Begin exploring the capital of Andalusia with a visit to Alcázar Palace. If you only have time for one sight here, this is the one. This UNESCO site depicts the evolution of Seville on its walls, from the Arabic period through the Middle Ages, to the Renaissance and up to the Baroque period. Reserve your tickets ahead of time or better yet, sign up for a skip-the-line tour. Afterwards, head over to the Seville Cathedral. The largest Gothic cathedral in the world and was over 100 years in the making and will stop you in your tracks.

Next, cross the Guadalquivir River for a visit to Mercado de Triana. This is a great place to restock your campervan pantry, offering a wide range of local produce, authentic cured meats, cheeses and freshly caught fish. If you want to practise your Spanish cuisine chef skills, take a cooking class at on-site Taller Andaluz de Cocina culinary school. 

Flamenco dance performance is a must while in Seville

By night, Seville comes alive to the sound of flamenco. The world renowned dance originated in Andalusia as part of gypsy heritage with roots in Spanish, Indian and Arabic culture. This unmissable experience is centred around 3 elements: the song, the guitar, and the dance. Catch a show at La Carboneria, a hot, crowded bar with three shows a night and free entrance. Just buy a drink. This is the real deal. After the show, enjoy a leisurely stroll back to the parking lot, and carry on to the overnight spot.

Overnight at: Camping Villsom Sevilla , close to every possible amenity imaginable with plenty of shade, copious amounts of hot water and a refreshing pool.

Day 5: The Famous White Villages Route

• Unspoilt nature and breathtaking viewpoints
• Local cuisine, crafts and authenticity
• Unique dwellings build into a cliff side

Driving time: 4h, 250km

A journey along the Route of the White Villages is a highlight of any South Spain road trip. This unforgettable scenic drive is dotted with beautiful whitewashed villages and impressive natural landscapes from start to finish. There are 20 villages in total but to streamline your Andalucia itinerary, we put our favourites in order of travel. Here are our recommendations:

Route of the White Villages - Top 5

• Arcos de la Frontera - Parador viewpoint over the river gorge
• Ubrique - crafts such as fine Italian leather
• Grazalema - one of the most beautiful villages in Spain
• Zahara de la Sierra - dramatic fortress perched atop a rugged cliff
• Setenil de las Bodegas - unique dwellings build into a cliff side

Dwellings built into the cliffside in Setenil de las Bodegas

Press on to Ronda, an extremely popular stop on your Andalusia road trip itinerary. The campsite we recommend is just 1.5km on the outskirts of town and a great base for exploration.

Overnight at: Area Autocaravanas Ronda , a charming spot with wonderful staff, high quality facilities and a swimming pool. 

Day 6: Ronda to Marbella 

• The famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
• Walk down into El Tajo gorge 
• Bullfighting tradition at Plaza del Torros

Driving time: 1h, 60km

Ronda, the 6th century mountain top city set precariously above a deep gorge boasts historic sights, dramatic views, and charming bodegas. Warm up with a stroll in Alameda del Tajo, a lovely 19th century park frequented by street musicians. From there head over to Puente Nuevo, the bridge connecting both sides of the gorge. Fun fact: the small room below the bridge is a former prison.

The Puente Nuevo, Ronda's 'new bridge'

Next, you can walk down into El Tajo gorge. Head to Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora where you will see a pathway with steps that descend into the gorge. It’s a nice short walk offering great views of the gorge and postcard worthy angles of the bridge.

Once you’re back topside, head over to Plaza del Torros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings dating back to 1785. While we’re not into the sport, the museum is a great place to learn about Ronda’s bullfighting tradition. One fight per year is held at the Plaza del Toros now, as part of the Feria de Pedro Romero festival each September.

Pack it in and hit the road towards Marbella. The drive from Ronda to Marbella is stunning, one of the best during the trip. Nestled between the natural parks of the Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de las Nieves, the views are endless. 

Overnight at: Camping Cabopino , nice campsite near the beach with friendly staff.

Day 7: Marbella

• Walk along the coastal promenade
• Salvador Dali artwork at Avenida del Mar
• Explore the charming old town

Unless you’ve decided to take some detours along the way, kicking back in Marbella will be the last full glorious day of your road trip. With a stunning backdrop of the Sierra Blanca Mountains and 27 km of sandy Mediterranean beaches, golf courses, prestigious nightclubs and coastal estates, Marbella is a fantastic place to finish your 7 day Andalusia itinerary.

This city has many different faces and caters equally to individuals, couples and families. We don’t like to pack too much into the last day of a trip, but here are some ideas. Kick start the day with a stroll down the gorgeous coastal promenade and check out hip bars and cool restaurants along the way. Along the way check out the artwork of Salvado Dali. The beautiful outdoor sculptures are placed along the Avenida del Mar.

For one last taste of authenticity, visit the cosy old town. The cobblestone streets are lined with charming houses, boutique shops and yummy tapas bars. 

No shortage of great places to eat in Marbella

The Marbella food scene is a notch above the rest of the Costa del Sol. Since your campervan pantry is probably running out of, well everything, here are some recommendations for a delicious last day:

• Tabena CasaBlanca (€€) - Popular with the locals, known for the best tapas
• Manuka Plaza del Mar (€€) - Plant based with a focus on local ingredients
• The Farm Restaurant (€€) - Organic restaurant in a beautiful setting

With a seemingly endless variety of options, we’ll shut down the inspiration machine here. Make the most of your last night however you see fit.

Marbella to Malaga

Departure day! The 60 km drive from Marbella to Malaga the following morning should take roughly 1 hour. Campervan drop off at our base in Malaga is easy, but it’s best to give yourself a 20 minute time cushion to go through the campervan return procedure 

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A road trip in Southern Spain – our itinerary of 10 days

We love Spain so much that we visit it at least once per year. Last year we decided to break the Camino routine and try something else we adore – a road trip. So here’s the itinerary for a 10-day road trip itinerary in Southern Spain. Warning: it contains so many unbelievable views, fascinating history, and indulgences, that you might become automatically hooked! Don’t think too long and just go on a road trip in Spain! It is totally worth it!

We did the trip at the beginning of June and the weather was warm and not too hot so sightseeing was unobstructed from the heat while it was still not the highest season to attract the crowds. Be sure to book accommodation, a rental car, and some major tourist attractions in advance so your plans don’t get spoiled. Anyway, the road trip to Andalusia will be worth it, trust us! Vamos a disfrutar España!

We started with a very delayed flight to Castellan so we didn’t have time for a proper dinner in Valencia. Good news – we asked the airline for compensation and got 400 Euro each few months later. We went straight to bed and in the morning we visited a nice local market (it was Saturday) where one could get anything from local organic food to tights and underwear. We’ve been to Valencia before so we got the car and hit the road south.

Where to stay in Valencia: At this apartment with the very welcoming host Manuel.

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We found Denia on the map and the photos of it were so attractive so we decided to stop by for a walk and lunch. The town has influences from Iberian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Napoleonic, and Christian civilizations so expect a lot in terms of culture, archeology, and architecture. We walked up to the Moorish castle and absorbed the views towards the sea. We decided to let the drone see from even higher but the nasty seagulls made us land quickly.

It started raining so we had to make use of the castle map to cover our heads. We went down from the fortress to the tiny center streets near the coast. They were welcoming guests for late (Spanish way!) lunch so we had to indulge with tapas and beer. Nobody cared about rain or something else… So, that’s why it’s nice to add random stops to your road trip itinerary in Spain. A nice welcome to Alicante province.

Calp (Calpe)

This was the stop for our second (and first full) day of the Southern Spain road trip. The first place to encounter difficulties parking (all those towns in the south are hard to navigate with their narrow streets and stair and even harder to find a parking spot in). Our hotel had this amazing Southern Spain vibe with colorful tiles and ship ropes everywhere.

The streets would go up and down until you find your spot at a tapas bar or reach the beach promenade. In any case, walking was both good exercise and delivered good views (Plaza Mayor, the public beaches). We drove to the nearby Ifaq peninsula to visit the sanctuary for migrating birds. The big rock is magnificent and well worth the walk (or swim, if you’d like). We finished in one of the coastline restaurants trying colorful liqueurs.

Where to stay in Calpe: Unfortunately hotel Galeon is not existing anymore but you might find another charming place to stay in Calpe .

Salinas y arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar

We headed south to San Javier and San Pedro del Pinatar to seek the tranquility of a very small town while waiting for our friends to attend a wedding. Even small places are full of sunshine and color (especially when there’s the beach around) so we can’t complain. We read about the Salinas nearby and went to check them out.

It turned out to be a very peaceful area for bird watching, just walking or biking. You pass sand dunes, salty lagoons, mud pools, and even flamingoes. It’s a narrow strait of the boardwalk (later it turns to a pathway road) that separates Mar Menor from the Mediterranean. It was the perfect long walk with serene views, plenty of birds to see and a lot of wind to refresh our minds.

Where to stay in San Pedro: We stayed at a private apartment that had a very homey feel. Find accommodation in San Pedro on Booking.com .

Cabo de Gata

Cabo de Gata is one of those places you admire nature and feel respected about what it can do and how powerful it is. It’s a nice curvy road (with good asphalt) that ends up in between huge rocks. If you hike a bit, you will become a witness to dramatic waves crashing at the rocks, filling up underwater caves, and the majestic sounds of Mother Nature. Petrifying and awe-inspiring.

You can also stop by one of the nearby villages to check out what seemed to be a deserted huge wild beach or some lakes that are home to thousands of birds. It might be a detour from your Southen Spain road trip itinerary, but it is so well worth it. Take the Cabo de Gata detour, please!

We couldn’t skip the port city of Murcia and not explore what Carthaginians did when they founded the city. Again with the streets that go uphill and downhill, it was a nice exercise that sometimes had an ancient theater or a view of the naval base as a bonus. For such an old place, anyone can find something interesting in the city.

We found it hard to find a parking spot, even within the many paid zones. We got lost at least three times and actually lost more time navigating with the car than exploring the old town. But we did manage to get lost on the streets of Cartagena. We stumbled upon a touching monument for the victims of terrorism. We also tried to find something typical to eat, but the city center is quite internationalized and globalized so we decided to skip lunch in Cartagena.

We highly recommend Almeria to anyone who is looking for a more local vibe and off-the-beaten-path-Southern-Spain experience. It still has the Alcazaba – the Moorish Castle and the neighborhood which has the total Arabic vibe. You can also find out that people are actually living underneath the walls of the Citadel, inside holes in the rocks. The fortress survived (or didn’t) a lot of earthquakes and fierce sieges.

Downtown we started wandering the street in search of food and it was so empty. We couldn’t explain where is everyone but it’s always nice to have the whole city for yourself. We eventually found a very offbeat local restaurant (including no English-speaking customers or staff) and finished the day with good homemade food and surrounded by lots of paintings (we think it was a gallery, too).

Where to stay in Almeria: at a very decent old-school hotel Torreluz Centro .

Western Leone Movie Set

Did you know that the semi-desert landscapes of Sierra Nevada are actually home to a couple of spaghetti Western movie sets? We couldn’t resist the feeling of being a part of an old Western Movie so we visited the Western Leone Movie Set. And it is an experience to have in that part of the country! Tumbleweeds in a Western village, the old church, city hall, farm, and a couple of cowboys that have some business to settle… It was definitely a highlight and a nice way to enjoy the Sierra Nevada.

We don’t want to spoil your first encounter with the magic of Alhambra, that’s why we will just tell you: make sure you visit Alhambra! And here’s how to do it easily. We got so confused with those many fake websites that sell overpriced (or even fake) tickets online. We didn’t want to get there and hang in line for ages. That’s why we made the phone call to Alhambra authorities and they told us which is the only official Alhambra tickets website:  alhambra-patronato.es.

While driving from Sierra Nevada semidesert to Granada, we bought tickets online, and here we went: a day visit to the Alcazaba’s Gardens, Palaces, and Generalife. There were no queues for us, just electronic tickets to scan at the entrance. The Nazaries Palaces line is usually quite long so reservation ahead of time is crucial. We didn’t have enough “ahead of time” but we did manage to reserve a night tour of the Nazaries Palaces of the Alhambra.

We chose Granada as the base to explore Alhambra but the city has its own magic – especially in its lively atmosphere of tapas, wine, and smiles everywhere. We woke up super early the next morning to drone the old town and Alhambra and the sunrise didn’t disappoint. The best part was having coffee, and fresh juice in a nice cafe with locals and practicing the Spanish lifestyle to the fullest. If you have more time, we suggest spending it on more things to do in the city or checking out some off-the-beaten-path experiences in Granada .

Where to stay in Granada: at the very quirky Casa Salvador .

Nerja is an extremely picturesque town, kissed by the sea. We had to walk the tiny streets, get totally blown by the fresh winds, and mingle with all the other visitors at the Balcony of Europe. We found a sunny cafeteria and wondered if we should just chill the whole day collecting some vitamin D.

Malaga was a great stop for mainly indulging in food delights. The city is famous for its food and entertainment scene so this second visit confirmed that foodies will be super excited to visit Málaga. Of course, there are still many cultural and historical things to see in the city, as well as some architectural and natural wonders to admire, too.

Ronda turned out to be one of the nicest surprises on this road trip in Andalusia. The city is situated in a mountainous area about 750 m above sea level. The Guadalevín River runs through the city and it divides it in two and carves out the steep, 100-plus-meter-deep El Tajo canyon above which the city is built. It’s amazing and you have to be there and enjoy the majestic bridges and views. And Ronda is just one of many magical Pueblos Blancos of Andalucia .

Another surprise was the Ronda Guitar Festival . We were lucky to be there on one of its days and enjoyed well-known classical and flamenco guitar performers from all over the world!

Where to stay in Ronda: We stayed at this flat and the host very very responsive online. Alternatively, you can find accommodation in Ronda on Booking.com .

It was time to exit Spain and enter Gibraltar – a British Overseas Territory. We crossed the border and the airstrip (it’s an international airport actually). While we didn’t quite catch the magical British stuff like phone booths and taxis, we did explore the Rock of Gibraltar and hiked one of its routes. We encountered lots of monkeys, hidden caves, great views, and tons of birds flying around. We used the funicular to go up and then walked all the way down to the parking lot, where we had to apply a set of techniques to get a parking spot. Gibraltar is just crowded. Great that the limestone rock is still not.

Complejo Rural Huerta Grande

We booked an outdoor rural eco-resort at the edge of Los Alcornocales Nature Reserve. Our little wooden bungalow was so enjoyable and the peaceful area around, too. We were surrounded by forest although we didn’t have time for a decent hike, we did have time to wander through the woods to the nearby village to find the most local and delicious restaurant in the area!

Stay:  Complejo Rural Huerta Grande

There was no way to pass by the southernmost point of continental Europe . The beach, the sea, everything – it’s just a dreamy place to be at. Although a lot of seagulls tried to rain their digested food leftovers over us, the whole experience was so fascinating! We even managed to take a dip in the water while many were already practicing wind sports.

The weather, together with some decent traffic jams had decided to ruin our Cadiz experience. Nevertheless, we managed to take a walk in the mingled streets of old town Cadiz, found a bakery with fresh chocolate creations, and even found a place to have lunch without a reservation. That day was definitely the wettest one to our feet which didn’t really manage to get dry.

There is no better place to feel part of typical Andalusia than Seville. We just walked and walked, crossed bridges so many times, admired the architecture in cathedrals, the Alcázar castle and its gardens, and just every building around. We even went sightseeing at a privately owned Plaza de Torros – a stadium-like place where they do corridas. Bullfighting is still legal and allowed in many parts of Spain, but at least it happens a lot more seldom than before. Here’s a tour that combines Seville Cathedral, the Plaza de Toros, and the Alcazar .

A hidden gem in town was the impromptu flamenco showed performed in a local pub. They wouldn’t allow photographing to keep the experience intimate. And here’s another great flamenco experience in Seville .

Where to stay in Seville: We stayed in this apartment with a very offbeat interior. Find your accommodation in Seville here . Or you can choose your favorite hostel in Seville .

Cordoba turned out to be my personal favorite place on this road trip in Andalusia. Such an incredible mix of different cultures, influences, civilizations – and all that is tucked in charming winding streets. Daytime or nighttime – I wish we could have stayed at least a week there. Also, we witnessed the most amazing flamenco show ever ! Here’s the link to book online Arte y Sabores .

Where to stay in Cordoba: at the colorful welcoming amazing Hosteria Lineros 38 .

Jaen is not only the olive capital of Spain (maybe it should be such for the whole world) but also the place where we met our friend Eduardo. We met him on the Camino for the first time and he was so excited about Andalusia and Jaen that we had to give him the chance to show us what the excitement was all about. And he did a great job to show us around the city center and the lovely dressed-up locals (at it wasn’t even the carnival), the Castle of Santa Catalina and some secrets of the happy life of Spaniards. Gracias, Edu!

The last night we spend in a charming Ubeda where it was a little too high-end – and I mean everything. We stayed at one of the fanciest places on this road trip, we had a snack in a Michelin-star-candidate restaurant. It was so peaceful on Sunday and at the same time, high-end stores were waving to us at every corner. Everything was great when we had a Spanish-style but organic-and-vegan breakfast in the morning, read the newspaper and hit the road to Madrid airport.

Where to stay in Ubeda: at one of the super chick luxurious Apartamentos Sol Real .

Venta del Quijote

There is no way we could have skipped a place not only to have lunch but also to follow Don Quijote’s steps. We left our donkey in the courtyard while indulging in our very last lunch on this trip. Someone claimed to have seen Sancho Panza in the stables.

General advice for your road trip in Southern Spain

Avoid toll roads and take picturesque ones.

You can thank us later – not only will you save money, but also you will enjoy epic scenery all around Spain.

We drove 2152 km with 182.46 Euro for fuel. We chose a small car for the tiny roads so that we were flexible and never got stuck anywhere.

Major tourist attractions – book well in advance or skip

We got very lucky to be able to book Alhambra just few hours before we got there, and we also could compromise seeing the Nazaries Palaces at the night only. If you don’t want to compromise, make sure you book your favorite attractions long in advance. Or skip them and look for more alternative things to do. We had to skip Caminito del Rey because we couldn’t plan 4-5 months in advance. To visit a national park, for God’s sake.

If you rent a car in Spain , make sure you book accommodation with parking options. It might not be super close to where you stay (we walked 15 mins to get from the parking to the apartment in Ronda). Sometimes parking fees could go up to 25 euros per day so make sure you know what to do. Sundays and festive days are usually free, in some towns, there might be free parking zones but don’t count on that.

What to eat and drink in Andalusía

As usual, we were finishing every tapas, dish, or drink they served us in Southern Spain so fast, so it was practically impossible to take photos. Just make sure you try whatever they recommend plus the stuff from the list below, OK? Buen aprovecho!

Pulpo Gallego

Berenjenas rellenas (stuffed eggplant)

Tortilla de patatas

Pestiños , alfajores ,  amarguillos – anything your sweet tooth can find in one of the plentiful pastry shops

Vino – even simple house wine is delicious in Spain (incl. Sherry , and here you can find more tasty drinks from all over the world )

Cerveza – as much as you can drink of it

So that was a tasty, full of scenery and history road trip itinerary in Southern Spain. If you love nature, architecture, mixed influences from different worlds, and indulging in local flavors – make sure you hit the road to Andalusia ASAP!

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The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From San Sebastian’s world-famous food scene and the attractions of Barcelona, to the incredible museums of Madrid, history of Granada and beaches on the Costa del Sol, this Spain road trip has it all!

Road tripping past perfect beaches, huge mountains and ancient monuments sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? If you’ve dreamed of exploring Spain, this guide is guaranteed to help you plan your trip.

It’s the country I’ve visited the most in the world. Why does it keep me coming back for more? Because it’s so varied. I love the fact that you can spend mornings exploring pretty Medieval cities, lunchtimes feasting on plates of tapas, afternoons on the beach and evenings enjoying the nightlife.

In the south of Spain you can even ski in the morning in Sierra Nevada and then hit the beach on the Costa del Sol in the afternoon – how amazing is that?

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Spain will no doubt appeal. 

If you’re interested in art, you’ll enjoy visiting Barcelona’s Picasso and Miro Galleries, the architectural wonder that is Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, Madrid’s impressive art collection at the Prado Museum and the modern artworks in Malaga’s Pompidou Centre.

If you enjoy the great outdoors there are plenty of beautiful landscapes in Spain . You could hike in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the north, explore Valencia’s Turia Gardens, explore Murcia’s weird and wonderful sandstone wonders at Bolnuevo or even ski in Sierra Nevada.

I’m a firm believer that the best way to get to know a country is through its cuisine, and in Spain, you’re in for a treat! San Sebastian in the Basque Country has the most Michelin-starred eateries per capita in Europe. There’s a great culture across this region for pintxos – small dishes often showcasing local ingredients.

Head south and you’ll enjoy plates and plates of delicious tapas. From Spanish hams and cheeses, to griddled peppers, calamari and fresh fish, there’s so much to taste along the way,

And the best part about a Spain road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. I’d 100% encourage veering off course from time to time.

Often it’s when you decide to travel slowly and go off the beaten track, you start stumbling across hidden gems. You’ll take a wrong turning and end up in an authentic Spanish town that isn’t in any of the tourist guide books!

Spain is often associated with summer beach holidays, but it’s worth remembering that many of the interior parts of the country offer just as much natural beauty, with vineyards, mountains, canyons, olive groves and whitewashed towns.

So, rather than create one epic Spain road trip, I’m diving it in tow: a northern Spain road trip and a southern Spain road trip . That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. If you’ve got a while, then simply join the two up and continue on from Salamanca to Madrid.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary

From sampling some of the best Spanish food in the Basque Country and enjoying the vibrant colours of Barcelona, to visiting the Alhambra in Granada and relaxing on the beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol, it's time to plan the ultimate Spain road trip! 

The Ultimate Northern Spain Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From Catalonia’s unspoilt coastline and Aragon’s scenic architecture to quaint cities in the Basque Country, this northern Spain road trip offers something for everyone.

The Ultimate Southern Spain Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the historic cities of Seville and Cordoba, to the natural beauty of Ronda and the spectacular beaches of Cadiz and Valencia, this southern Spain road trip offers something for everyone.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Spain?

You might think that Spain has a Mediterranean climate, but that’s only true for the southern parts of the country. Spain’s location and geography means that the north has a cooler climate and the east around Murcia has a more arid climate. Obviously the mountainous areas in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada are completely different too.

Temperatures vary greatly by region, but as a quick example, you can expect temperatures as low as -10 in around Sierra Nevada (in the mountains near Granada) in January, and as high as 40°C in July in cities such as Seville. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations along the Costa del Sol including Malaga and Marbella, great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Spain, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or between September and October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months and you’ll skip the peak season so should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Spain road trip itineraries. Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are!

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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10-Day Spain Itinerary: The Essential Stops for First-Time Visitors

Planning a 10-day trip to Spain? With over 20 years of exploring Spain, I’m excited to share an itinerary that’s perfect for first-time travelers .

From Madrid’s vibrant streets to the charm of Toledo, the awe-inspiring architecture of Seville and Granada, and the Moorish heritage of Córdoba, this 10-day Spain itinerary will help you see all the essential highlights of Spain in one trip !

Let’s break down your 10 days in Spain and make the most of every moment—whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends. With practical tips and personal insights , you’ll be ready to explore Spain like a pro! Let’s get started.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Day 1-3: Madrid

Madrid is a city that never fails to impress. Having visited almost 10 times , I can confidently say that it’s a place where history, culture, and atmosphere come together in a way that feels both exciting and familiar.

Here’s how to make the most of your time in Madrid during your 10 days in Spain, with practical tips and personal insights to help you navigate the city like a local.

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

Arrive in Madrid and take it easy . You’ll likely be tired from your travels, so start with a relaxed exploration of the city .

Wander around Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor , two vibrant squares that capture the essence of Madrid. Then, do some shopping along the Gran Vía and visit one of the city’s top museums. The Prado Museum is my favorite and offers free admission on certain days of the week.

Grab a bite to eat at an outdoor café and soak up the atmosphere. I recommend you avoid booking any tours on this first day to give yourself time to adjust.

Day 2: Madrid Exploration

Dive into Madrid’s rich cultural scene today with a walking tour including a visit to the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum . These landmarks are must-sees and showcase the city’s historical and artistic heritage.

Take a leisurely stroll in Retiro Park to unwind. In the evening, join a tapas and wine walking tour . As someone who loves Madrid, I can tell you that these tours are a fantastic way to discover local flavors and hidden gems .

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Dedicate this day to a day trip to Toledo , which is well worth the visit. Just a short train ride from Madrid, Toledo offers a fascinating mix of history and architecture. For an even easier option, consider booking a guided day trip that includes transportation and a local guide, making your visit seamless and informative. ⤵

Your guide will take you to the Toledo Cathedral , stop to buy handcrafted Damascene metalwork souvenirs, and bring you to the mirador (viewpoint) for an amazing view of the city. Toledo’s beauty is undeniable, and you’ll definitely appreciate the picturesque landscapes and historical depth.

Day 4-5: Seville

Travel south to Seville, a city renowned for its rich Moorish and Christian heritage . With its stunning architecture and laid-back culture, Seville is sure to captivate you. Note that you’ll need to hop on the high-speed train ( get tickets on Omio ) from Madrid to reach Seville efficiently.

Here’s how to make the most of your time in this Andalusian gem:

Day 4: Madrid to Seville

Arrive in Seville and take some time to get settled. Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the historic center , taking in the atmosphere of this lively city.

Visit the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower for impressive views and a glimpse into Seville’s past. Explore the Royal Alcázar , a magnificent example of Moorish architecture with its beautiful gardens.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Seville’s cultural heritage by attending a flamenco show . Seville is famous for its flamenco, and experiencing a live performance is a fantastic way to appreciate the passion and artistry of this traditional dance form.

Day 5: Seville Tour

Dive deeper into Seville’s history and culture with a guided city tour . This will give you a comprehensive overview of the city’s rich past, including landmarks such as the Plaza de España and the Archivo de Indias .

In the afternoon, take some time to explore the Santa Cruz neighborhood , known for its narrow streets and old-world ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely dinner and absorb the local atmosphere.

Day 6: Day Trip to Ronda & White Villages

Day 6: Ronda & White Villages Day Trip from Seville

Today, embark on a day trip to Ronda and the White Villages . Ronda is a bucket-list destination for me—it’s a romantic city with dramatic cliffside views and a rich history. You’ll find plenty of things to see and do in Ronda to fill your day.

Don’t miss the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge, the charming old town, and the Alameda del Tajo park.

On the way, enjoy Southern Spain’s picturesque white villages , known for their whitewashed buildings and narrow streets. This day trip provides a fantastic contrast to everywhere else you’ll visit on your 10-day trip to Spain.

Return to Seville in the evening to relax after a long day. Enjoy a late dinner, perhaps revisiting your favorite tapas spots from earlier in your stay.

Day 7: Córdoba

Discover a unique blend of Roman, Arab, and Catholic heritage in Córdoba. This city offers an interesting history and architecture worth exploring.

Day 7: Seville to Córdoba

Travel to Córdoba in the morning. Once you arrive, start your day with a visit to the stunning Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral . This architectural marvel showcases the city’s diverse historical influences and is a must-see (I’ve been 3 times and want to go again!)

Next, wander through the Jewish Quarter , known for its narrow, winding streets .

Eat lunch at a local restaurant, then spend the afternoon exploring more of the city’s highlights. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and stroll through its gardens. The views from the top are amazing .

You can also book a guided tour of C órdoba to can get the most out of your one day in the city.

In the evening, Córdoba has a magical ambiance that’s perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. I recommend staying overnight in Córdoba to fully appreciate the city’s nightlife and get the most out of your visit.

Day 8-9: Córdoba to Granada

Granada is a city where history and breathtaking beauty come together, making it an essential stop on your Spanish adventure.

Day 8: Córdoba – Granada

Travel to Granada, where the highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the Alhambra . This stunning palace and fortress complex is renowned for its intricate Moorish architecture and beautiful gardens. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

After exploring the Alhambra , wander through the Albaicín neighborhood. This historic area offers narrow and stunning views of the Alhambra. It’s a great place to soak up Granada’s boho atmosphere and enjoy local cuisine.

For dinner, try a traditional tapas bar. Granada is famous for its free tapas with drinks, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to sample a variety of local tastes.

Day 9: Granada – Madrid

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Granada, perhaps with a visit to the Granada Cathedral or a leisurely stroll through the city’s streets. You might also explore the Sacromonte neighborhood, known for its cave dwellings and flamenco heritage.

In the evening, travel back to Madrid via train for your departure the following day. It’s a great chance to do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Day 10: Departure from Madrid

Sadly, your Spanish adventure comes to a close today. Spend your final morning in Madrid eating a good breakfast and soaking up any last moments of the city.

Make your way to the airport for your departure, reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past 10 days. Whether you’ve been captivated by the architecture, immersed in the culture, or enjoyed the local cuisine, I’m certain your trip to Spain will be a memorable journey that you’ll carry with you for years to come.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day itinerary for Spain offers a fantastic overview of the country , from the bustling streets of Madrid to the historic allure of Granada. Follow this plan, and you’ll get a well-rounded introduction to Spain’s rich culture, architecture, and history!

Want help planning your Spain trip? Get in touch . ⤵

Let’s create youR spain adventure

Interested in a custom itinerary or need help finding a tour?

As a full-service travel agency , specializing in Spain, I create custom itineraries tailored to your travel style and budget.

Blogger & Ex-Spanish Teacher

Tristina Oppliger has traveled to 35+ countries on five continents. Having previously lived in Spain, she loves studying foreign languages and cultures. In fact, she has a Master's in Foreign Language Education and is a former Spanish Teacher! Tristina is passionate about living free—remote work, exploring the world, and finding adventure wherever she goes.

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Iowa’s Most Charming Small Towns

This small-town road-trip in Iowa is the perfect way to explore the diverse culture and sights of the Hawkeye State.

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There's nothing better than hitting the open highways for a small-town road trip in Iowa. The Hawkeye State has one of the most diverse collections of small towns in the country, thanks to a rich immigrant history that created so many unique European enclaves here. We've picked out a selection of five amazing little towns with populations ranging from a few hundred to about 11,000, each with some unique sights to see on this road-trip itinerary . It should only take you about two hours of driving to get from one end of our journey to the other, but this isn't a trip you want to rush. It's a great opportunity to get to know these five charming towns - and maybe discover your new favorite happy place.

It's time to hop in the car for an Iowa road trip that will kick off only a few miles from the Iowa City metro area and take you to five of southern Iowa's most charming small towns!

1. Amana Colonies

Our first stop is the charming collection of several small villages known as the Amana Colonies. These villages are known as the best German enclave in America, and you'll find delicious German food on practically every corner. As you explore, you'll find brewpubs, family restaurants, and one of the best bakeries in Iowa . Amana is also very well known for its festivals, and a fall road trip can easily be timed to have you here for Iowa's best Oktoberfest .

2. Brooklyn

Brooklyn, Iowa is a small town of about 1,500 people - but it might have just as many flags as people! Known as the flag capital of Iowa , its top attraction is its massive flag display, with one for every state and branch of the military. But the all-American charm doesn't stop there. Make sure to stop by the Classic Deli & Ice Cream Shoppe, an old-school soda fountain serving massive sandwiches and old-school treats.

3. Grinnell

Grinnell is one of the bigger small towns on our trip, with just under 10,000 people. What makes this community stand out is the way it preserves the historic past and architecture of the town while building something new. Several historic buildings now serve new purposes - most famously the Hotel Grinnell , a historic school that's now one of Iowa's best boutique hotels.

Pella might be one of the most famous towns in Iowa , known as the "Little Holland" of the Midwest. This spectacular Dutch town has some of the country's most unique architecture, including a historic windmill built in the Netherlands. The spring Tulip Time festival brings visitors from all around the state, but the Dutch flavor continues all year round at Jaarsma Bakery , which offers some of the best European pastries anywhere around.

5. Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa is a delightful college town of about 11,000 people, and the presence of William Penn University means there's a great cultural scene here. The restaurants tend toward affordable and filling, and the charming Edmundson Park has a historic playground with a space age theme. If you're planning your visit here in the early winter, you might be lucky enough to experience the brilliant holiday lights display - one of the best in the state.

Have you visited any of the destinations on this small-town road trip in Iowa? What are your favorite small towns in the Hawkeye State? Let us know in the comments section! If you're on the other side of Iowa and looking for a great small town to explore, we highly recommend spending the day in Denison . And if you're ready to hunker down by the time you reach the end of your trip, Oskaloosa is home to the Fairfield Inn & Suites Oskaloosa , which offers a comfortable room at a reasonable price.

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Iowa Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Discover some of the best road trips in Iowa, from one-day adventures to seasonal excursions.

Whether you head out to explore mountains or parks, quaint small towns , wineries and breweries , lakes and beaches, camping spots, museums, or anything else, there is something liberating about a great road trip, getting out and just discovering things, taking in the sights as you drive. As an avid traveler, I know from experience how much time and effort it can take to research and plan a good trip, so we have put together some of the best road trips in Iowa to inspire you and take some of the work out of it for you. You can just pick your favorite, or several, pack the car, and go!

1-Day Road Trip In Iowa

• Route: Okoboji > Milford > Orleans > Spirit Lake > Arnolds Park
• Distance: 26.9 miles
• Trip Time: 1 hour driving time

If you are a beach lover, pick a warm summer day and spend it enjoying the beaches of Iowa Great Lakes region. Start your amazing beach day with a filling breakfast in Okoboji then spend some time at Terrace Park Beach with its wide sandy shore and warm waters. You will make your way north to Spirit Lakes for an al fresco lunch followed by a beach stroll - and swimming if you are in the mood - at Public Beach. When you are ready for dinner, enjoy some legendary BBQ, steaks, or burgers and end your beach day with a 1940s tradition, a Nutty Bar!

3-Day Weekend Road Trip In Iowa

• Route: Backbone State Park > Palisades-Kepler State Park > 3 Caves State Park
• Distance: 111 miles
• Trip Time: 2.25 hours driving time

This Iowa road trip itinerary takes you to three of Iowa’s most incredible state parks . You could drive to all three and see parts of them in a day, but these state parks are so different and each offer so much to see and explore, we recommend taking a long weekend and spending a day learning what makes each park special. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and unique architecture of Backbone State Park, where you can find wide open spaces as well as hidden glens and clear springs. Mt. Vernon’s Palisades-Kepler State Park has it all, a shady forest, small caves, a relaxing beach, and glamping cabins where you can stay the night. Lastly, get lost in the lush foliage and ancient deep caves at Maquoketa Caves State Park. This road trip is one for the bucket list.

Greater Des Moines Road Trip

Northwestern Iowa Breweries Road Trip

• Route: Decorah > Calmar > Elkader > Manchester > Dubuque > Bellevue
• Distance: 150 miles
• Trip Time: 3 hours driving time

Covering just 150 miles in one little corner of the state, this is one of our more unique day trips. You are going to want to grab a designated driver before you head out on this tour of some of the best breweries in Iowa . You will start in the far north at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company to sample a few amazing ales and imperial stouts. A little farther south, you will visit the quaint little Deb’s Brewtopia where you just might be able to sample their fantastic Irish Red Ales. You will go on to other craft breweries to sample brews with names like Drug Store Cowboy and Nice Shoes. You’ll find traditional beers and seasonal blends, enjoy creative flights, and even take home your favorites. Have fun and make sure you eat along the way!

Best Iowa Road Trip For Spring

• Route: Decorah > McGregor > Solon > Gladbrook > Mason City > Decorah
• Distance: 432 miles
• Trip Time: 8.5 hours driving time

When it comes to natural beauty, this road trip through Iowa proves that this state is far more than cornfields and plains. This lovely waterfall getaway is a dreamy tour of the Hawkeye State’s pretty waterfalls, a perfect way to welcome spring. Spend a long day or several days exploring these beautiful places. Marvel at the unique terrain around Dunning’s Spring Falls. Bring along your fishing gear and spend some time at Siewers Spring Falls on the Trout Run Trail. Hike to Malanaphy Falls to enjoy the ethereal beauty of these tall falls. When you get to the unreal spring-fed Beulah Spring Falls, make time to take a one-of-a-kind boat tour through ancient caves. This route includes a visit to one of the most beautiful of Iowa’s waterfalls at Union Grove Lake, as well as a few others to round out this breathtaking trip.

Best Summer Road Trip In Iowa

• Route: De Moines > Madrid > Winterset > Newton > Dubuque > Maquoketa > Harpers Ferry
• Distance: 466 miles

When the warm weather rolls around, there is no better time to get out and soak up some of Iowa’s natural beauty on this summer road trip . You will go from the lush botanical gardens in Des Moines to a leisurely hike through Ledges State Park. You will have the chance to buy fresh blooms from a gorgeous Madison County flower farm before heading underground to explore the fascinating Crystal Lake Cave Complex in Dubuque, and lastly, take in spectacular views from Effigy Mounds National Monument, one of the four national parks in Iowa.

Best Iowa Road Trip For Fall

• Route: Hamburg > Honey Creek > Missouri Valley > Jackson Township > Moorhead > Sioux City > Westfield
• Distance: 181 miles
• Trip Time: 3.5 hours driving time

When the leaves turn colors, it is time for this fall foliage excursion through the Loess Hills . The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway is always a beautiful drive, but come fall, it is a magical wonderland of color. Start with a stunning overlook or a little scenic hike in Waubonsie State Park, then head off to the Hitchcock Nature Center where you should be sure to check out the views from the birds nest observation tower. Whether you just pick a few turnouts, stop for some hiking, or just take it all in from the road, the drive through Missouri Valley, Loess Hills State Forest, and Preparation Canyon will immerse you in perfect fall beauty. The last stop is Broken Grassland Preserve where over 100 American Bison live.

Best Winter Road Trip In Iowa

• Route: Storm Lake > Ames > Ankeny > West Des Moines > Pella
• Distance: 218 miles
• Trip Time: 4 hours driving time

Winter means a lot of things for families, and one of them is baking - cookies in particular. Of course, you don’t have to bake to enjoy seasonal cookies! Bakeries all over the state bake up special treats at this time of year, and this holiday cookie road trip takes you to the best of them. From the colorful butter cookies at the historic Storm Lake Bakery and the nostalgic goodies from Van Hemert’s in Ames, and the old-fashioned candy and fresh sugar cookies at Nan’s Nummies to the Dutch classics from legendary Jaarsma Bakery, you will definitely get your fill of all things sweet on this delightful cookie road trip .

Family Friendly Iowa Road Trip

• Route: Altoona > Atkins > Cedar Rapids > Waterloo > Thor > Arnolds Park > Sac City > Boone
• Distance: 535 miles
• Trip Time: 9.5 hours driving time

The entire family will fall in love with Iowa when you hit the road to visit some of the most fun and exciting attractions in the Midwest along with some local culture. This family-friendly road trip starts off in Altoona at the old-fashioned amusement park, Adventureland . Explore the fun activities, exhibits, etc. of Bloomsbury Farm and visit the ultra-interactive Science Imaginarium in Waterloo’s museum district. Even dining is full of fun when you stop for hearty plates of comfort food combined with a retro video game arcade. More fun awaits at the historic theme park in Arnolds Park with its thrilling rides and maritime museum. Before the historic railroad trip finale, you will take a brief stopover to see the world’s largest popcorn ball!

Road Trip to Iowa Landmarks And Natural Wonders

• Route: Decorah > Harpers Ferry > McGregor > Dubuque > Maquoketa, Sabula, Muscatine
• Distance: 265miles
• Trip Time: 5 hours driving time

Prepare to see this state in a whole new light on this special road trip to Iowa’s natural wonders . Incredible limestone bluffs, waterfalls, extraordinary caves, and more will wow you as you follow the Iowa road trip map we have created for you. Have you ever seen the unbelievable Decorah Ice Cave? How about the truly unique view of the Mississippi River in Pikes Peak State Park ? It is not on the official route, but as you pass through Dubuque, you could take a brief stopover at the National Mississippi River Museum and learn about this grand waterway that has been called a natural wonder itself. Then visit the Island city of Sabula on the Iowa-Illinois border. The last stop on this adventure is Wildcat Den State Park where you can actually find several amazing natural wonders.

Road Trip to Best Small Towns in Iowa

• Route: Lansing > McGregor > Guttenberg > Bellevue > Le Claire > Wapello
• Distance: 242 miles

A trip along the Great River Road is something all Iowans should experience at least once. This scenic road trip takes you to six picturesque small towns, each with unique sights and activities. You will start in the northern town of Lansing where you can fuel up with some homestyle cooking before exploring the picture-perfect historic town of McGregor. Here you can walk the downtown area or venture out to take in the amazing views in Pikes Peak State Park. Watch the riverboats in Gutenberg, see some quirky sculptures in Bellevue, and enjoy a meal and a beer at the fun German restaurant, Bierstube, in the charming town of Le Claire. Lastly, you will head through Davenport to Wapello where we recommend a winery tour and tasting.

So, there you have it - our ideas for some of the best Iowa road trips you can take. Which one appeals to you most? We would also love to hear which Iowa landmarks, towns, and attractions have inspired your past road trips!

As you decide which road trip to take first, check out OnlyInYourState's  Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for our best road trip planning and packing tips. Whether you're leaving for a single day or a week-long road trip, you can't forget the snacks: here are  50 on-the-go snack ideas perfect for traveling .

Looking for more to explore? Check out our list of the all-time best hikes in Iowa:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/best-hikes-in-iowa/

This Rural Road Trip Will Take You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In Iowa

Discover a rural road trip in Iowa featuring charming small towns and unique attractions.

The summer is the perfect time for traveling - but sometimes it can feel like the entire state is crowded into the same popular spots. Fortunately, Iowa is full of some amazing small towns and countryside attractions with amazing opportunities for fun and exploration. Why not jump into the car and search out some of those hidden gems? This rural road trip in Iowa in Iowa will take you to some out-of-the-way locations with a hefty dose of Hawkeye State charm.

This rural road trip can be taken in a full day of travel, or spread out over two if you want to linger over some of these attractions.

Use the Google Maps link for one of the best drives in Iowa

The birthplace of Vice President Henry Wallace has now been transformed into one of Iowa's best rural museums.

Tour the original Wallace farm, the produce gardens, and the replica historic barn on a self-guided tour.

Visit the official website of The Wallace Centers of Iowa for more information.

Now it's on to the "Little Holland" of Iowa for a snack break at one of the state's best bakeries.

Different Dutch treats are always on offer, and almond-lovers in particular will be in small-town heaven.

Learn more about Jaarsma Bakery .

If you want another dose of sweetness, head over to this charming u-pick farm for the best summer fruits around.

The farm grows just about every berry imaginable, and you can pick up a convenient box or create your own out in the fields. It's open from June through the beginning of November, so plan this road trip accordingly.

Head to the website of Berry Patch Farm to learn more.

Take a look at this video of the Berry Patch Farm by @IowaPBS :

A hidden amusement park attraction in one of Iowa's most charming small towns? Believe it - and the price of admission is only a dollar!

First built in 1913 and restored by the local Iowa community, this old-fashioned ride will take you right back to childhood.

Visit the Story City Greater Chamber Connection website to learn more about the Story City Antique Carousel.

Take a look at this video by @iowatourism :

This old-fashioned riverboat is worth a visit just to stare at its impressive construction, but you'll definitely want to jump on board for a lake cruise!

Cruises leave twice daily, and you'll have a full bar, a selection of snacks, and some amazing views as you drift over the water.

Visit the Cruise Clear Lake website to learn more about the Lady of the Lake.

A two-for-one museum, this building holds a tribute to the famous composer Antonin Dvorak on the upper floor.

And on the lower floor, you'll find the famous collection of intricate wooden clocks created by the Bily brothers, each depicting a key moment in history or religion.

Check the Bily Clocks Museum and Antonin Dvorak Exhibit website for more information and to see when it's open during the year.

Take a look at this video by @koolbuildings7916 :

It wouldn't be a road trip finale without a great meal, so drive into Elkader for one of the only - and certainly the best - Algerian restaurants in the Midwest.

Elkader takes its name from a North African figure, and this hopping restaurant and bar is a great place to try their flavorful flatbreads, dips, and sandwiches.

Visit the Schera's website to learn more.

Have you been to any of these hidden gems? Do you have any picks for a rural road trip in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section. If you're looking for another amazing road trip with a view, take this drive through Iowa's best Great River Road towns.

Ready to hit the road on a few road trips in Iowa? Before doing so, be sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List , and don't forget the snacks !

All Stories

The scenic road trip that leads to 5 of texas’s most charming small towns.

The towns I’ve chosen offer a nice mixture of urban and outdoor recreation, so you can enjoy a well-rounded vacation sure to leave you feeling refreshed.

The Stunning Top-Secret Canyon in Utah Nobody’s Ever Heard Of

Escape the crowds and enjoy peace and quiet when you explore Losee Canyon in southern Utah.

Roxie’s BBQ Has Been a Timeless Treasure in Oklahoma for Over 70 Years

This Stunning Cottage in Kansas Is the Small-Town Getaway You’ve Been Looking For

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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Croatia Adventure

9 days, zagreb to dubrovnik.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

With over 2,500 hours of sunshine each year, Croatia is already swoon-worthy — but that’s just the beginning. Add in unique culture, historic cities, mouthwatering cuisine, picturesque ports, and jaw-dropping nature, and you’ll never want to leave. Stroll through the crystal-clear waters and cascading falls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, savour freshly farmed oysters in Bistrina, and dive into centuries of history as you explore monuments and churches that whisper tales of the past. You’ll head home with a heart full of joy and enough memories to last a lifetime.

Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12.

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 9

Places visited

Day 1 zagreb.

Arrive at any time. After a welcome briefing, set off with your CEO on a orientation walk to get your bearings of the area and to see some of the street graffiti art on the way to an optional group dinner.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 zagreb/plitvička jezera.

Travel south from Zagreb to the stunning and iconic Plitvice Lakes National Park. Explore the park’s forests, crystal waters, and cascading falls with our CEO for incredible scenery, natural beauty and photo opportunities. Continue to the hotel in the evening, check in and relax before a delicious dinner.

Meals included:

Day 3 plitvička jezera/šibenik.

Depart the hotel after breakfast and drive to the coastal city of Zadar. Discover the city on a walking food tour with a local guide, exploring the historic city centre and important landmarks and culminating in a secluded garden for lunch and wine tasting. Continue to Krka National Park for a hike through the lush forest along the river to a series of spectacular waterfalls. Finish the day in the nearby city of Šibenik and enjoy a free evening.

Day 4 Šibenik

Set off on a full-day excursion to explore the nearby islands of Prvic and Zlarin. Take the ferry first to Prvic and explore the old town and other parts of this small island with your CEO then hop on the next ferry to the nearby island of Zlarin. Populated since ancient times, Zlarin has many historical monuments worth exploring and and offers incredible views over the islands natural vistas towards the Adriatic Sea. Return to Šibenik in the afternoon and take a stroll through the old town with your CEO before enjoying the rest of the day and evening at leisure.

Day 5 Šibenik/Makarska

Travel south along the coast today to the port city of Split. Explore the city with your CEO on an orientation walk to see some of the main sights and landmarks then enjoy free time for lunch and to continue exploring on your own with the chance to visit the Diocletian's Palace and the Riva promenade. In the late afternoon continue by bus to the city of Makarska to check into the hotel and enjoy a free evening.

Day 6 Makarska

Enjoy a full free day to take advantage of the many optional activities available in and around Makarska. Perhaps take a ferry to the island of Brač to explore on your own, take a tuk tuk tour, go zip-lining in the nearby town of Tucepi or just relax on the local beach.

Day 7 Makarska/Dubrovnik

Set off from Makarska along the coast and make a stop at a small bay called Uvala Bistrina to lean all about the local oyster farming and to sample some fresh ones and with wine and lunch from local ingredients. Take some free time to wander the town of Ston and to walk along the massive and historic Ston City wall which rewards those who climb it incredible views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Continue driving in the afternoon to Croatia's capital city, Dubrovnik and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Day 8 Dubrovnik

Discover Dubrovnik today on an orientation walk with your CEO through the old part of the city and seeing some of the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks. Make a stop at the G Adventures-supported Deša project, a non profit organization dedicated to empowering and employing women in the community. Then, take the rest of the day to continue exploring on your own, take an optional kayak excursion or relax in one of the many cafés and watch the world go by. Regroup in the evening for an optional final dinner out on the town.

Day 9 Dubrovnik

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: DEŠA Women's Centre Visit, Dubrovnik
• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Foodie Moment: Zadar Walking Food Tour, Zadar
• Your Foodie Moment: Oyster Farm Food and Wine Experience with Lunch, Uvala Bistrina
• Orientation walks in Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik
• Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Hike in Krka Lakes National Park
• Full-day excursion to the islands of Prvic and Zlarin from Šibenik
• Walk along the old city wall of Ston
• Transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations

Accommodations

Hotels (8 nts).

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Allow USD295-385 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, ferry, walking.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guide.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $699.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.