andalusia travel branch

03-9281 2175 / 03-9281 0399 / 03-9283 1588 / 03-9283 6160 / 03-9283 6011 / 03-9283 5160 / 03-9283 5095 / 03-9284 7380 / 03-9284 7030 / 03-9284 7029 / 03-9284 7034 / 03-9285 4530 / 03-9285 7813 / 03-9285 7851 / 03-9285 7893 / 03-9285 7972 / 03-9200 2195 / 03-9200 2197 / 03-9200 2198 / 03-9200 2204 / 03-9200 2205 / 03-9200 2206 / 03-9200 1205 / 03-9200 2194

03-9283 6010

• +34 645 361 469

AndaluSia Tours

Tours to southern spain.

• Our bestsellers

Most Popular Tours

• Why with us

Our Adding Value

Discover Andalusia in a unique way with Andalusia Travel Tour, a boutique tour operator specialising in creating customised and authentic travel experiences in Southern Spain.

40 years of experience

Leading with Expertise: Top-notch tour guides

Professional guides

Experienced official guides and local tour leaders

Sustainable tourism

We respect the local communities and preserve the environment

Custom activities

Itineraries designed to meet the customer requirements

• Private Tours Granada
• Private Tours Cordoba
• Private Tours Seville
• Private Tours Malaga
• Shared Tours
• Travel Blog
• © 2024 Andalusia Travel Tour. All rights reserved.
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Policy Cookies

Your options if plans change

We understand these are uncertain times and want to make sure you feel confident about your options if your plans change.

Cancellation

Cancellation policies are an integral part of our service. If the need arises to cancel your reservation, please note that charges may apply. For Private Tours, cancellations are accepted up to 48 hours prior to the scheduled start time, with a full refund of the tour cost (excluding non-refundable monument entrance fees). However, Shared Tours are not refundable under any circumstances once booked. In the case of Day Trips and Tour Packages, cancellations made up to 35 calendar days prior to the departure date will receive a full refund of the package cost (excluding non-refundable monument entrance fees)

Read our Terms and Conditions .

Need a human touch? Our friendly Customer Support is there for you 24/7.

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• Places to visit
• Explore Andalusia
• Plan the trip
• Professional

Our capitals

Much more than cities

Province of Almeria

• Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora

Province of Cadiz

• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema

Province of Cordoba

• Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética
• Los Pedroches

Province of Granada

• Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada
• La Alpujarra

Province of Huelva

• Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado

Province of Jaen

• Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas

• Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén

Province of Malaga

• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce

Province of Seville

• El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte

Main attractions

Mezquita de Córdoba

Alcazaba de Málaga

Jaén Cathedral

Cádiz Cathedral

Muelle de las Carabelas

Alcazaba de Almería

Alhambra y Generalife

Andalusia's Natural Treasures

Cerro del Hierro

Duna de Bolonia

Caminito del Rey

Georuta Desierto de Gorafe

La Geoda de Pulpí

Gruta de las Maravillas

Tinto River

Los Alcornocales

Sierra Nevada

Sierras Subbéticas

Torcal de Antequera

Despeñaperros

• Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star

Cultural Tourism

• Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt

Nature Areas

• Leisure Parks
• Health and Beauty

Places of leisure

Offers and Experiences

Astrotourism - Star Tourism

Tourist Routes

Andalucía a caballo

Meetings and congresses

• Spanish language schools

Cyclotourism

Andalusia made to measure

With the family

Digital and energetic nomad

Andalusia all year round

Summer in Andalusia

Autumn in Andalusia

Christmas in Andalusia

Andalusia in Spring

How to get around in Andalusia

Come by air, by boat or by land

Transport companies in Andalusia

• Practical information

Where to sleep?

Hotel-Apartment

Housing for tourism purposes

Rural House

Country House Lodge

Rural Resort

Campsites and overnight parking

Youth Hostel

Boarding House

Where to eat ?

• Restaurants

Gourmet markets

Things to do

Ideas for your trip

Publications and Brochures

City brochures

Coast leaflets

Area brochure

Specialised brochures

Folletos genéricos

Provincial leaflets

Specialised books

What is NAC?

How does NAC work?

How to create offers in NAC ?

SmartData Andalusia

¿Qué es smartdata?

Fuentes smartdata

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Material Audiovisual

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Colecciones

• Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info
• Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora
• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz
• Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema
• Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética
• Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches
• Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada
• La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra
• Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado
• Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina
• Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas
• Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén
• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce
• El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte
• Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info
• Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info
• Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star
• Recipes Recipes Recipes Recipes
• Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt
• Live . Live . Live . Live . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info
• Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info
• Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info
• How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info
• Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info
• Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info
• Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info News +info News +info News +info News +info
• Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info
• NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info
• SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/que-es-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/fuentes-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Fuentes smartdata +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/solicitar-usuario/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Solicitar usuario +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/acceso-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Acceso smartdata +info
• Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/terminos" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Lo último +info Lo último +info Lo último href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/search" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Lo último +info Colecciones +info Colecciones +info Colecciones href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/collections" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Colecciones +info
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PLAN YOUR TRAVEL

Andalucía is located south of the Iberian Peninsula. Access to Andalusia can be done by plane, by boat, by train or by road.

Where to sleep

The accommodations of Andalucía satisfy the most demanding traveler, from a different environment to the most classic style. The are many options to choose from.

What to eat

The Andalusian gastronomy is as wide and varied as its territory. Enjoy a whole repertoire of dishes and products whose excellence is celebrated all over the world.

Learn about the possibilities offered by this region of the south of the Iberian Peninsula come to the time of year you come.

Discover the magic of Andalusia in spring , a time of transformation and unparalleled beauty. Live the explosion of colors of its landscapes, feel the sun on your skin and enjoy a perfect climate to explore every corner of this land.

More than a season , spring in Andalusia is an experience . It is the ideal time to enjoy it.

Book your tourist experience

See more offers.

Alhambra Private Tour with Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Gardens

La Pelusa Apartments in East Málaga

Bautismo de buceo para dos personas en La Herradura

Paddleboarding in Sierras de Cazorla

Team Building / Mice Treasure Hunt Activity Málaga

Special discount on FIAT 500 model car rental at Miami Car Hire

Promoción Junio 20%

Caminito del Rey desde Sevilla

Don't miss....

Fair of the Manzanilla

Campeonato Mundial de E1

Festival de la Guitarra de Córdoba

Festival Internacional de Música y Danza de Granada

Fiestas Colombinas

Starlite Occident

Torneo Internacional de Polo

Fiesta del Cascamorras

Cascamorras Festival

Sanlúcar de Barrameda horse races.

Bienal de Flamenco de Sevilla

Proposals to enjoy andalusia.

A journey on board the Al Andalus train

Bluefin tuna, the taste of Cadiz in springtime

Easter week in Andalusia

La gruta de las maravillas grotto, an underground treasure

5 reasons that will make you discover Lugares Colombinos in Huelva

Surf destinations in Cadiz where you'll enjoy good vibes

Beyond the city: Discover the beautiful countryside of Cordoba

A weekend discovering Autumn in the Sierra de Aracena mountains

For professionals.

Statistics and Market Research

Manage your tourist resource

EXPLORE ANDALUSIA

• Discover Andalusia
• The best sun in the world
• 100% Natural
• Andalusia flavor

PLACES TO VISIT

• Almería
• Cádiz
• Córdoba
• Jaén
• Málaga

EXPERIENCES

• Active turism
• Conferences and Congresses
• Touristic Routes

TRAVEL PLAN

• Accommodations
• Guided Activities Companies
• Tour Operators and Travel Agencies

• Extended Tours
• Walking Tours
• Shore Excursions
• CUSTOM TOURS

Let yourself use a Spain Trip Planner. Let us show you Andalusia

Genuine andalusia is a spain travel planner holding the key to a memorable vacation to andalusia and beyond. a trusted, awarded and caring travel advisor crafting some of the best spain vacation itineraries for very small private groups since 2013..

Allow yourself the peace of mind to have a destination expert plan your dream trip to Southern Spain. Allow us the joy and the honour to welcome you in our homeland like an old friend. You will have all your needs and wishes carefully catered for, while you enjoy a Spain trip of a lifetime

Let yourself use a Spain vacation planner. Let us you show Andalusia.

Start now planning your dream trip to southern spain, new: spain travel advisory 2024 and etias europe, culture and lifestyle tours.

Immerse yourself into our living traditions. Discover our long and colourful history. See its footprint in our lifestyle and be amazed by the unique architecture of our towns.

Food and Wine Tours

Come and experience with us the joy of our vibrant markets and tapas bars, learn the art of Spanish cooking and discover our ancient and modern wine scenes.

Outdoors and Nature Tours

Venture into nature with us and see our whitewashed villages, cycle along former railways, hike through lost valleys and sail legendary waters.

EXTENDED TOURS

• Walking the GENAL VALLEY
• The ROMANTIC TRAVELERS in ANDALUSIA
• The WONDERS of CADIZ
• The SHERRY TRIANGLE
• Seville to CORDOBA
• Moorish RONDA
• The WHITE VILLAGES up on the hills
• CADIZ and JEREZ de la Frontera
• GRANADA and the Alhambra
• VEJER de la Frontera and Cape TRAFALGAR
• JEREZ vineyards and SHERRY bodegas
• Three towns, three treats: SHERRY, CHEESE and SWEETS!
• Spanish FOOD AND WINE WORKSHOP
• Cadiz bay SAILING TOUR
• Colonial CADIZ
• Hidden gems of SEVILLE

WALKING TOURS

• SEVILLE World Heritage Sites
• CORDOBA Jewish quarter and Mosque
• GRANADA Alhambra and Generalife
• CADIZ and the Americas
• JEREZ old town for foodies
• SEVILLE behind the scenes

SHORE EXCURSIONS

• Malaga SHORE EXCURSIONS
• Cadiz SHORE EXCURSIONS

CONTACT & LEGAL

Genuine Andalusia Memorable Private Tours Jerez de la Frontera and Seville South West Spain

Tel and whatsapp: +34 655232132 Email: [email protected] skype: genuine.andalusia

Travel Agency. License number C.I.AN-116540-2

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Must-see attractions in Andalucía

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

Real Alcázar

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Seville’s showpiece church is awe-inspiring in its scale and majesty. The world’s largest Gothic cathedral, it was built between 1434 and 1517 over the…

Museo Picasso Málaga

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

Cueva de Nerja

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

Punta Paloma

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

Museo de Bellas Artes

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Parque de María Luisa

Parque de María Luisa & South of Centre

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Capilla Real

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Metropol Parasol

La Macarena & Alameda de Hércules

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Catedral de Málaga

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Sacra Capilla del Salvador

This famous chapel, built between 1536 and 1559, is the flagship of Úbeda Renaissance architecture. Commissioned by Francisco de los Cobos y Molina as his…

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Basílica San Juan de Dios

Built between 1737 and 1759, this spectacular basilica unveils a blinding display of opulent baroque decor. Barely an inch of its interior lacks…

Hospital de los Venerables Sacerdotes

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Parroquia de la Asunción

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Gruta de las Maravillas

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Plaza de España

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Sevilla Province

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Costa de Almería

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Necrópolis Romana

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La Geoda de Pulpí

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Colegiata de Santa María de la Asunción

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Medina Azahara

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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

Renting a car for your andalucia road trip, can this andalucia itinerary work without a car, the ultimate southern spain road trip itinerary, other destinations to add to your andalucia itinerary, the best time to road trip andalucia, what to pack for a road trip in southern spain, andalucia road trip itinerary map.

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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.

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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.

6 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.

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7-day tour of Andalusia

Day 1 Málaga

We suggest starting your tour in malaga , in the heart of the costa del sol , with plenty of international flights..

A morning in the historic quarter After a good breakfast on Plaza de la Constitución, your first stop could be the Cathedral-Basilica de la Encarnación, known as “La Manquita” (one-armed) because its tower was never finished. Visitors have the option of seeing the views of the city from its rooftops. After that, you could visit the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba , which was the fortress and palace of the Muslim rulers. In the highest part of this area you’ll see that there is also a castle, Castillo de Gibralfaro, which you can reach on the 35 bus from Alameda Principal. Right next to it is one of the city’s best viewing points, where you can see a good stretch of the coast. An afternoon of museums and shopping on Calle Larios At lunch, you could visit one of the city’s most iconic tapas bars, El Pimpi, and try the potato salad, flamenquín ibérico , or pringá , and then spend the rest of the afternoon in one of the city’s museums and art galleries, like the Carmen Thyssen or the Picasso Museum . Did you know Picasso was born in Malaga? You can also visit the house where he was born and other places related to the famous painter. If you feel like shopping, the best spot is Calle Larios, a well-known and very lively street full of shops.   Sunset by the harbour If the weather is warm, the late afternoon is a great time for a dip on La Malagueta beach. Otherwise, a stroll along Palmeral de las Sorpresas will bring you to a part of the harbour called Muelle Uno. There you'll find the curious coloured cube of the Centre Pompidou and on foot you'll reach La Farola, an old lighthouse whose construction was completed in 1816. You'll also find a myriad of shops and restaurants to round off your day. and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Day 2 Ronda

Your best option is to hire a car in malaga city for the rest of your tour. in an hour and a half, ronda awaits you, one of the most surprising and photographed places in andalusia..

Views from a bridge 98 metres up The shortest route to Ronda is heading north on the A-357 and A-367, but if you like you can take the long way round, first going south for a quick stop in Marbella , famous for its beaches and marinas, its luxury boutiques and its top-class restaurants with chefs of the calibre of Dani García. In Ronda itself, the must-see is the Puente Nuevo bridge over the river Tajo (Tagus), built in 1751-1793 to span a dizzying 98-metre chasm. Do you want more to see in Ronda? Its bullring is one of the oldest in Spain, the Alameda del Tajo is a lovely walk with a great viewing point, and there are the gardens of the Rey Moro Palace, the Arab baths, and more. And of course, going out for tapas in the bars of Ronda is always a pleasure. Optional afternoon excursion At nightfall the gentle light in Ronda’s streets creates a very romantic atmosphere, but if you want to spend the rest of the afternoon exploring more places, there are several more picturesque white villages in Cadiz province. For example, Setenil de las Bodegas is just a half-hour drive away, and its mountain setting will surprise you, with the houses nestled into the hollows of the river gorge. It’s a very photogenic spot! Another interesting white village is Arcos de la Frontera, just over an hour from Ronda. Perched on a cliff, its whitewashed houses, narrow winding streets and spectacular views are entirely enchanting. Andalusia in its purest form.

Day 3 Jerez de la Frontera and Cádiz

Just half an hour from arcos de la frontera, jerez de la frontera is the heart of andalusian horse culture..

Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art Have you ever come face to face with a pure Spanish horse? This school organises themed tours where you can see horses training with their riders, and the show “How the Andalusian Horses Dance”, an authentic equestrian ballet in which the riders wear 18th century costumes. Jerez is also famous for its Sherry and Brandy route , so you could take the opportunity to visit a winery for a tasting. An afternoon in Cadiz If you are not too tired, it is worth going to the city of Cádiz , half an hour away by car. It’s on the Atlantic coast, so if the weather is good you can stop for a swim. If not, take a while to stroll around the town, one of the oldest in the western world. You’ll like the Viña district, the Pópulo district (the city’s oldest), the Cathedral … And of course, we recommend eating a wrap of fried fish in the sunshine on La Caleta beach, which is also the perfect place to see one of those unforgettable sunsets. The light of Cadiz is magical.

Day 4 Seville

Today we come to one of this route's highlights. seville , the capital of andalusia, boasts several world heritage sites and its own exuberant charm, making it one of spain’s most attractive cities. you can drive there in an hour and a half from cadiz. we would suggest staying at least two days in seville, if you can..

The Cathedral, Giralda and Real Alcázar Palace The perfect spot to start the day is Plaza del Triunfo. This square is dominated by the Cathedral , one of the largest Christian churches in the world and the burial place of Christopher Columbus. Its famous tower, the Giralda , at nearly 100 metres was once the world’s tallest. The energetic visitor can climb to the top of this, surely the best-known symbol of Seville. Opposite it, the Real Alcázar is a palace complex which was the home of kings and caliphs over the centuries, with dreamlike gardens where you’ll want to linger. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan you may be interested to know that you are in the Water Gardens, palace of the rulers of Dorne. Santa Cruz district and Plaza de España If it’s lunchtime, Santa Cruz is a great neighbourhood where you can feel the city’s authentic spirit while you eat. Narrow streets, squares where you can sit and rest, bars offering traditional tapas such as gazpacho, papas aliñás , menudo sevillano , huevos a la flamenca , adobo , and more. In the afternoon we suggest a visit to Plaza de España , built for the Iberoamerican Expo of 1929, regarded by many as the most beautiful square they have ever seen. Did you know it’s a setting in a “Star Wars” film? Next to the square is María Luisa Park. Perhaps you’d like to go around the park in a horse-drawn carriage?   Across the river to Triana for dinner On the banks of the Guadalquivir River you will find another Sevillian symbol: its Torre del Oro (Golden Tower), which is even more beautiful when lit up. You can go to New York Pier and have a cocktail to whet your appetite. From here, a 15 minute stroll takes you to Triana bridge. On the other side is Triana, one of the best-known neighbourhoods of Seville, with a character all its own, and a great place to find a restaurant terrace where you can have dinner while you enjoy the view. Or if you prefer, you could spend the evening going from bar to bar enjoying tapas and drinks until the small hours. By the way, if you’re in Triana in the daytime, take the opportunity to buy a gift or a souvenir in one of its ceramics shops, where you’ll find the Mudejar tiles that decorate much of Seville. Another option before crossing to Triana is to see the sunset from the “ Setas de Sevilla ”, the mushroom-like project by the architect Jürgen Mayer, a kind of raised space on the world’s largest wooden structure, with great views of the city. It’s a good way to get a feel for the modern side of Seville. After that, you can get back to the traditional side with an evening at a flamenco show.

Day 5 Córdoba

It’s 140 kilometres from seville to cordoba , another essential andalusian city thanks to its settings and architecture, not least the great mosque..

In a forest of columns Of course, you have to begin a day in Cordoba by crossing the Roman bridge and visiting the interior of the Great Mosque-Cathedral , one of the most important Islamic buildings in western Europe. Wandering through its hundreds of red and white columns and arches until you emerge in the lovely Orange Tree Courtyard is a unique experience. You are inside one of the most amazing works of art in history. There is also a night-time tour available, called “The Soul of Cordoba”. From here you can move on to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , a fortress with large gardens which are a delight to stroll around as you listen to the murmur of the fountains, and which you can also visit at night in the experience “Magical Nights in the Alcázar”. A good idea for lunch is to visit one of the city’s traditional tabernas and try local dishes like salmorejo , flamenquín and rabo de toro . There are plenty to choose from on Plaza de Tendillas or Plaza de la Corredera, for example. An afternoon in the Jewish quarter and among flowers Take your time exploring the maze of streets of the Jewish quarter and the Synagogue, the Sephardic museum and Plaza Tiberíades. And of course, if you’re in Cordoba you must see its famous courtyards full of flowering potted plants and simply enjoy the fragrances and colours. The best time is in May, during the Courtyards Festival , although actually many can be visited at any time of year. Cordoba by night To end the day with relaxation, you could visit one of the city’s famous Arab baths. And as night falls, the equestrian show “Passion and Spirit of the Andalusian Horse” is performed in the Caballerizas Reales, the Royal Stables of Cordoba.

Day 6 the Alhambra in Granada

The last city that we suggest you visit is granada , about 200 kilometers from córdoba. as it is home to one of the world’s most beautiful buildings, the andalusian palace of the alhambra , and we want you to have plenty of time to enjoy it, we suggest spending two days in the city..

Discovering the Alhambra As this site is extremely popular, our first recommendation is to book well in advance. It’s best to allow at least half a day to explore this complex of palaces and gardens, which once symbolised all the power of the Nasrid dynasty. There is a lot to see and some of the most famous points of the Palatine City are: The Palace of Charles V, the Patio de los Leones and its emblematic fountain, the Patio de Comares, the Sala de Dos Hermanas or the Peinador de la Reina. The Generalife and its gardens A general ticket to the Alhambra includes a visit to the Generalife palace , the summer residence of the Nasrid Emirs, and its fabulous gardens. Walking around them is a wonderful sensory experience. If you would like to see the building by night, there are also various night-time tours available, with special lighting. A relaxing afternoon After the intense experiences of the morning, it’s time for a quiet drink in the Realejo district, a visit to an Arabic tea room around Calle Calderería Nueva, or a hammam or Arab bath on the site of the originals, with different temperature pools and the option of a massage. It would probably do you good…

Day 7: the city of Granada

Although a visit to the alhambra is a unique experience, there is plenty more to see in granada, so we suggest allowing another day to explore the town..

A stroll through the historic quarter To see Granada’s beautiful historic town centre, a good place to begin is the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel where the Catholic Monarchs are buried. You can continue along Plaza Nueva and the pretty avenue known as “Paseo de los Tristes” (avenue of the sad) because it runs by the cemetery, parallel to the river Darro. For lunch you’ll be spoilt for choice, as Granada is one of Spain’s best towns for tapas, with plenty of good bars.   Sunset in the Albaicín district A stroll around the narrow streets and traditional houses of this neighbourhood is enough to show why the Alhambra and the Generalife are a World Heritage Site. This district also offers one of the prettiest viewing points in all of Spain, the Mirador de San Nicolás. Sitting here at sunset, gazing at the Alhambra and the mountains of the Sierra Nevada while the local buskers strum their guitars is a magical moment.   Dinner and a Flamenco show in Sacromonte The most unusual district in the city is probably Sacromonte, with its unique cave houses. To learn about the culture and way of life of this neighbourhood, so intimately connected to the art of flamenco , you could go to the iconic zambras, caves where flamenco shows are staged. It’s the perfect finishing touch on a journey into the heart of Andalusia.

Tips and recommendations

• For a more leisurely journey, we suggest allowing two weeks for touring Andalusia.
• If you have time for more, there are many more places in Andalusia you would enjoy, such as the Alcazaba de Almería and Cabo de Gata-Níjar in Almería, the World Heritage Cities of Úbeda and Baeza in Jaén, Doñana National Park in Huelva (also in Seville and Cadiz), Itálica in Santiponce (Seville), Medina Azahara in Cordoba, Caminito del Rey in Malaga, among others.
• Many Andalusian cities are connected to each other and to Madrid and Barcelona by the high-speed train, the AVE. You may also find the Renfe Spain Pass useful if touring by train.
• If you don’t want to hire a car, a unique way to explore this part of Spain is on the Al-Andalus train , a luxury hotel on rails.
• Even in large towns and cities like Cordoba and Seville, it’s easy to walk from place to place, especially in the old town centres.
• Summers in Andalusia can get very hot, so although this trip can be taken any time of year, it’s probably most enjoyable in spring.
• If you do travel in summer, we recommend booking your accommodation, tours and tickets to the most famous sights well in advance.
• Share your journey with the hashtag #AndalusiaRoadTrip and tell us how it went!

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How to Spend Two Incredible Weeks in Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia is unlike anywhere else in Spain, and it’s one of my favorite regions. The second-largest autonomous province in Spain boasts sandy beaches, snowy mountain peaks, Europe’s only true desert, as well as enormous, vibrant cities, and quaint whitewashed towns perched atop cliffs.

As amazingly diverse as its geography is, this is only secondary to the fascinating history and culture of the region, which owes as much to the Islamic caliphates that occupied the area for centuries as it does to the Spanish kingdoms that later flourished. This melting pot of influences is most notable in the stunning architecture of the numerous cathedrals and alcazars (fortresses), which blends Moorish aesthetics with the Gothic and Baroque ideals of Western Europe. 

It’s not just the buildings that have their own flavor: the food, too, has its own unique specialties, many involving fresh fish from the extensive coastline or cooling dishes designed to take the edge off the heat.

Personally, I’d recommend kicking off your Andalusia adventure in either Seville or Malaga, as these cities have the two best-served airports in the region. As the route we’re going to outline is essentially circular, it doesn’t particularly matter where you choose to begin, but we’re going to start in…

Day One: Seville

Seville is Andalusia’s largest city and sometimes described as the hottest place in continental Europe. Even in October, we were sweating after just an hour of scuttling about streets filled with food markets, tapas bars, and pretty palacios.

Fortunately, many of the older landmarks were designed to ameliorate the heat, including the Royal Alcazar. This extensive complex was built on the site of a former Muslim fortress by Pedro I, a great admirer of Islamic design, who decided to construct a luxurious residence for himself using the principles of Moorish architecture. We were particularly overawed by the Salon de Embajadores (Hall of the Ambassadors), a room of intricately carved walls crowned by a golden, domed ceiling that dazzles today just as much as it must have impressed foreign dignitaries hundreds of years ago.

The palace also boasts extensive gardens as well as a café where you can dine on simple snack fare amidst ostentatious peacocks, which freely wander the grounds. Make sure you book your ticket in advance, as queues during high season can last hours – and believe us, you don’t want to be standing for that long under the blazing sun! 

Just next door to the Royal Alcazar is Seville’s principal religious edifice, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See. A solid beast of a building that seems to sprawl outwards in a slightly higgledy-piggledy way, what you see today is the result of successive additions, from original mosque elements like La Giralda (once a minaret now a bell tower) to the Gothic vaulted ceilings and detailed carvings framing each of the many entrances. 

While it makes sense to take in both the palace and the cathedral at the same time due to their proximity, we ended up exhausted just because there’s so much to absorb and explore. Fortunately, the nearby streets of the Barrio de Santa Cruz are the perfect retreat for some tapas and a glass or two of tinto de verano. This mixture of red wine and lemon soda is like sangria but more commonly drunk by the locals – its origins lie in the neighboring city of Cordoba (more on that later).

Where to stay in Seville: We opted to go for the newly opened Querencia de Sevilla , right in the heart of the city. Everything was tastefully decorated with modern fixtures, and the view from the roof is truly spectacular. 

Day Two: Seville

If you’re like us, you’ll want to take your second day in Seville a little slower. That means leisurely strolls through Maria Luisa Park, more than 30 hectares of greenery that includes the hemispherical Plaza de Espana. Built in 1929, this grandiose building is adorned with brightly colored azulejo tiles, complemented by pavilions depicting different provinces of Spain. Both the plaza and park often host festivals, concerts or food fairs, so make sure you check the calendar.

From here, you can head north along the Guadalquivir River, passing the Palacio de San Telmo on your right, then the 13th-century Torre de Oro on your left. You can’t go into the former because it’s now a government building, while the interior of the latter isn’t worth the fee, but both have exquisite exteriors. After about 20 to 30 minutes, you’ll reach the Plaza de Toros, Seville’s principal bullfighting ring – a pretty impressive arena, even if you find the brutality of the sport a little hard to stomach.

Head north and east to reach the Setas de Sevilla (Mushrooms of Seville), more formally known as Metropol Parasol. It’s a striking backdrop from a distance, but we couldn’t help but notice that up close it all looks a little dilapidated. Still, it’s worth paying to go up top and see the views from the aerial footbridges. Underneath is a produce market where you can sample some local goodies – though we found it a little overpriced and sterile compared to the markets in Feria and Triana, where we were shoulder to shoulder with locals buying their jamon and queso.

Round out the day with a trip to an evening of flamenco, which is found in abundance in the Andalusian capital. There are a lot of options in Seville, so it might be worth saving some time and booking a show through a reputable tour company so you know what you’re getting beforehand.

Day Three: Jerez

Just one hour away from Seville by car or train, Jerez de la Frontera is most famous for its namesake alcohol: sherry. The city is filled with atmospheric tabancos where you can try the fortified beverage. Our favorite was probably Tabanco el Pasaje, mainly because it also stages flamenco shows (there’s something of a rivalry between Seville and Jerez as to which city is the true home of the traditional Spanish dance form). 

If you’re a sherry newbie, a great place to start is Bodegas Fundador, the city’s oldest sherry maker still in existence, which offers tours and tastings. Alternatively, the Bodegas Tradicion combines sherry tastings with a collection of beautiful artworks by Spanish masters like Velasquez and Goya.

The second thing Jerez is renowned for is its horse-riding school, more formally known as the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Living up to its grand name, the complex has enough attractions to occupy most of a day, from the grand rooms of the Palacio del Recreo de las Cadenas, through a museum that details the history of horse breeding and riding (with a particular focus on the Andalusian tradition), ending up at the training grounds, where you can witness the horses being put through their paces. The cherry on top is an equine ballet show that takes place several nights a week (just bear in mind that this is a separate ticket to the general visit tickets).

If you still have time, you can visit the intimidating 11th-century alcazar (fortress), Jerez’s oldest building, which occupies grounds that also contain a 12th-century mosque-turned-chapel and a modest palace. A few steps away is the city’s cathedral, admittedly not in the top five of Andalusian religious buildings we visited, but still boasting an impressive façade.

Where to stay in Jerez: We stayed in a modern, privately owned apartment in a fantastic location, hosted by the lovely Juan and Amelia. Admittedly, the combination of cake on arrival and a hot tub on the patio may be making us slightly biased in their favor .

Day Four: Arcos

Jerez is a good base from which to make a couple of day trips, including to one of the most beautiful of the so-called pueblos blancos (white towns), Arcos de la Frontera.

This cute little spot of winding alleyways is dramatically perched atop a cliff. From certain angles, it almost looks like the Church of San Pedro is on the verge of tipping right over the edge.

After cramming our first few days with activities, we spent most of our time in Arcos just enjoying the quiet streets, visiting the compact basilicas, and gazing down on the gentle pastoral views below. While for such a small place there are a fair few tourists, the locals are genuinely friendly and chatty. Plus, there are some delightful little restaurants where you can dine al fresco.

As an added treat, don’t miss out on the little cakes made by the nuns at the Convent of Mercedarias Descalzas. These are sold through a little hatch to keep the sequestered ladies from profane eyes, adding a piquancy of mystery to the palate.

Day Five: Cadiz

One of the glorious things about being in Andalusia for two weeks is the diversity you can experience. Having spent a few days in the interior, we were ready for some coastal breezes! 

Cadiz is another easy day trip from Jerez. A little strip of a peninsula encircled by sea, it was first settled by the Phoenicians 3,000 years ago. You can see some of the remnants of this civilization at the Museum of Cadiz, alongside evidence of the later Roman occupation.

Get your bearings by heading to the Tavira Tower, one of the best viewpoints in Cadiz, where you can gaze down on the entire city, including the trio of golden domes that mark out its distinctive cathedral.

Next, head to La Caleta beach and enjoy a walk along the sands, which are sandwiched between two of the city’s castles. It’s a much smaller area than the Playa de la Victoria, but it’s also much closer to the town center if you don’t want to catch a bus to the suburbs. 

Don’t miss out on the Mercado Central, where you can buy fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables – or do what we did and dine in on some tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters) and a glass of albarino.

Day Six: Gibraltar 

If you don’t have a car, this section of your journey can be a little tricky, since going from Jerez to Gibraltar involves a series of buses. No matter whether you drive or ride, your endpoint will be La Linea, from where you can traverse the border into Gibraltar on foot. You’ll have the unusual experience of entering a territory by crossing a plane runway.

Gibraltar is a funny old place. A little dot of the UK at the tip of southern Spain, here you’ll hear English bandied about more than Spanish and see pubs dot the main square and principal thoroughfare.

The famous Rock of Gibraltar is also an oddity, jutting out of a flat landscape like a rebellious bit of earth that refuses to conform to its surroundings. We decided to scale this beast on foot, though you can also ride up on the cable car. At the top, we were greeted by the locals: Barbary macaques, who run wild (well, semi-wild) – just make sure not to get too close or you may lose your phone!

Atop the Rock are the ruins of a Moorish castle, while inside the rock are a series of tunnels, carved into the mountain by the British Army. You can walk through some of these, which contain exhibits about their historical use during World War II.

Where to stay in Gibraltar: Accommodation options are sparse in Gibraltar, but we found The Elliott Hotel serviceable. It has a nice rooftop pool and is right in the heart of the action.

Day Seven: Malaga 

If you didn’t get a chance for some beach time in Cadiz, you’ll get a second chance in Malaga. The 1.2-kilometer Malagueta is just 15 minutes’ walk from downtown, so you can pop over at any point when you need a break from sightseeing to enjoy some rays while sipping beer at one of the chiringuitos (local beach bars).

Aside from its soft sands, Malaga is also famous as the birthplace of Picasso. There’s a lovely museum dedicated to his work, which gives a good overview of his life and art. Devotees can also visit the Casa Natal where Picasso was born, but frankly it’s a little underwhelming. We’d recommend instead spending your time absorbing the ambiance of the neighborhood from which the Spanish artist emerged, including the Plaza de la Merced, a pretty square where you can chow down on local specialties like fried fish and sardine skewers.

Malaga is also home to a couple of stately defensive structures that provide some of the most beautiful views in the city: the Alcazaba, one of the best-preserved Moorish fortifications in all of Spain, which towers above an Ancient Roman theater; and the remains of the Castillo de Gibralfaro, whose majestic ramparts overlook the bullring and the cathedral.

Where to stay in Malaga: You’ll find La Casa Azul easily because (as the name suggests) the facade is a lovely bright blue. The interior is as charming as the exterior, with lots of quirky little touches and some unique pieces of furniture. We took advantage of the proximity to the beach for a late-night swim.

Day Eight: Caminito del Rey 

Malaga is a good jumping off point to reach one of the most unusual experiences Andalusia has to offer, the Caminito del Rey. Literally meaning ‘King’s Little Walkway,’ it’s a suspended wooden trail that hugs cliff sides around the Gaitanes Gorge. 

This current 8-kilometer path was only opened in 2015. The original route, built in the early 1900s as a way to construct a hydroelectric dam, fell into disrepair years ago and you certainly wouldn’t want to be utilizing it today – we can say that with certainty since remnants of the old route are still visible today.

We recommend taking a guided tour , as this simplifies your transport to the Caminito and includes an expert who can tell you all about the history of the walkway. It takes about 3-4 hours to traverse the entire route, which is fairly flat and suitable for people with limited hiking experience. 

Once you return to Malaga, you can spend a bit more time exploring the city or hop on the high-speed train out of town to Granada. This line only opened in 2022, but has dramatically cut the time it takes between the cities to a mere 1 hour and 12 minutes.

Day Nine: Granada 

We’re just going to come out and say it: Granada is our favorite city in Andalusia. First off, the Alhambra complex is justifiably acclaimed as one of the most incredible experiences you can have in Spain. It feels like almost every inch of the Nasrid Palaces has been carved with the distinctive geometric patterns of Islamic architecture, from the honeycomb vaulting of the Hall of the Abencerrajes to the Courtyard of the Myrtles, where the tranquil pool reflects back the surrounding architecture so that everything appears doubled.

One of the joys of visiting the Alhambra is you don’t just get to see the exquisite interiors of the palaces. You also get to explore the ramparts of the forbidding Kasbah fortress, which has fabulous views of the city, as well as gardens of the Generalife and the Renaissance palace of Carlos V.

It’s an enormous amount of space to cover, enough to occupy a leisurely traveler a whole day. We, however, wanted to squeeze in a visit to Albaicin as well. Granada’s charming, old Moorish quarter is built into the hill facing the Alhambra and consists of whitewashed houses split by charming, winding streets that still contain an echo of their medieval roots. The area today is dotted with cute little churches, hidden cafes, and the unmissable Mirador de San Nicolas, where you can get the best view of the Alhambra in all its glory.

Once you’ve walked your legs off, duck into Jardines de Zoraya, a restaurant with a beautiful courtyard, delicious octopus salad and a slightly upscale air. If you still haven’t managed to catch any flamenco yet, regular shows also take place here in the evenings.

Where to stay in Granada: Simple but with a fun vibe, we were first drawn to the Oripando Hostel because of its location, but staying there in a private room, we also appreciated its completely chilled atmosphere and quirky backpacker aesthetic.

Day Ten: Sierra Nevada Mountains 

Spend the morning getting out of Granada and into the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains, which lay claim to having the largest mountain in mainland Spain, Mulhacen. We weren’t quite that ambitious and opted instead for the Los Cahorros pathway, which starts from the village of Monachil, easily reachable from Granada by a 45-minute bus. 

This well-traveled trek covers waterfalls, canyons, and some very exciting (in a rollercoaster kind of way) hanging bridges. Don’t fret about getting lost, as the circular route is easy to follow and only takes about 3 hours to complete – just enough time to build up an appetite for lunch!

There is still one further thing you can’t miss while you’re in Granada: its cathedral. While from either the Alhambra or the Albaicin it’s clearly visible, from the ground it’s easy to stumble upon it by surprise, hemmed in as it is by the surrounding streets. Inside, a gleaming white nave leads you towards the absolutely stunning cupola: a symphony of stained glass, painted saints, and gilt-encrusted pillars.  

Abutting this is the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of the so-called Catholic Monarchs, Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, whose marriage and subsequent reconquest of Andalusia from the Moors united the land and created the footprint for modern Spain.

Day Eleven: Jaen 

There are just two things you really must do in Jaen: visit the cathedral and visit the castle. To be blunt, this city is not somewhere you will put down as one of the best places you visited on your Andalusia itinerary. The reason we still recommend you stop off here is: one, it’s a good midway point between Granada and Cordoba (it’s a 60-minute bus ride from Granada and a 95-minute train ride to Cordoba); two, from here it’s a convenient day trip to Ubeda and Baeza (see below); and there, we already mentioned that cathedral, right?

We saw a lot of amazing religious edifices in Andalusia, each with its own unique attributes. The somewhat box-like Jaen Cathedral stands out not just because of the intricately sculpted frontal façade, nor because it is the cathedral equivalent of Mike Tyson in terms of pure solidity and intimidation, but mainly because it seems to absolutely dominate the rest of the city in a way no other cathedral that we visited in the region quite does.

For an idea of just how striking it is, walk up to the Castillo de Santa Catalina, a reasonably picturesque ruin where you can gaze down upon the entire city – and really see how commanding the cathedral is.

Where to stay in Jaen: Did we mention that the Castle of Santa Catalina also houses a hotel? Everywhere else we visited, we stayed near the center of town, but here we decided to escape the hubbub and treat ourselves to the well-appointed comfort of the Parador de Jaen .

Day Twelve: Ubeda and Baeza

It really couldn’t be easier to get from Jaen to Ubeda and Baeza, as regular buses service the whole route. This pair of towns have been recognized by UNESCO as models of Renaissance architecture in Spain, which makes them feel more Italian than the rest of Andalusia. Being slightly off the beaten track, they’re also a chance to escape some of the metropolitan crowds.

The charm of visiting the old quarters of these two places is that you can lose yourself idly strolling along cobbled streets lined with houses made from yellow stone, ducking your head in wherever you fancy. Just make sure you don’t miss some of our favorite parts: in Ubeda, the El Salvador Chapel (which packs design details into almost every available space, both inside and out) and the Palacio Vela de los Cobos (its quaint library would look perfect in any house); in Baez, the Jabalquinto Palace (the fabulous façade now conceals a university) and the Fountain of the Lions.

Day Thirteen: Cordoba

Many of the Christian places of worship in Andalusia are built over, or adapted from, former mosques. The Mezquita, however, is the most unusual fusion of Christian and Islamic architecture we’ve ever seen. 

The original mosque was built on the site in the late 8th century and gradually expanded by successive Muslim rulers of the region. When Cordoba was reconquered by Ferdinand III of Castile in 1236, the mosque was made into a cathedral, with numerous chapels built into the original Moorish design, which was thought too splendid to do away with entirely.

What this slightly dry historical information translates into is one incongruous masterpiece. The main hall is filled with row upon row of double-tiered arches from its days as a mosque, while each side of the enormous room is lined with chapels dedicated to various Christian saints. Set into one wall is the mihrab, covered in glittering, golden-tinted mosaics, indicating the direction of Mecca. Right in the heart of the structure, however, is the main chapel, a ridiculously ostentatious structure, stuffed with marble and detailed wood carvings, that wouldn’t feel out of place in Versailles.

Outside, the Patio de los Naranjos (Courtyard of the Oranges Trees) is itself a pretty space to sit awhile, gazing at the minaret-turned-bell-tower that strikes upwards into the sky. 

Considering the Mezquita’s reputation as a symbol of Cordoba, it’s appropriate that most of the other things you’ll want to see are all nearby. Just steps away is the Roman Bridge, crossing the city’s branch of the Guadalquivir River. Follow the waterway north, past some scenic old windmills, and you’ll come to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. Unlike some of the other alcazars we’ve already mentioned, this one’s history as a fortress has been almost entirely supplanted by its current capacity as a pleasure garden where you can escape into a green oasis for an hour.

End the day at the Plaza de la Corredera, where you can munch some croquetas and try salmorejo, an Andalusian version of gazpacho. The square is always abuzz with activity, as the beautiful buildings that surround it still function as apartments for long-time local residents, who often walk their dogs across the expanse while children engage in games of football.

Where to stay in Cordoba: As you might have gathered, we are obsessed with the Mezquita, and the Ermita Suites are right next door. The apartments here are like something out of an interior design magazine, and the clean, predominantly white décor is faultlessly chic.

Day Fourteen: Cordoba/Seville

It’s less than an hour on the train from Cordoba back to Seville, so if you’ve got time to squeeze in one more activity before your flight, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Medina Azahara. Located just outside Cordoba, it’s about a 25 to 40-minute drive, depending on if you take a car or local bus. If you’re worried about the logistics, you can also visit as part of a guided tour .

A guide might be wise, since most of the site is now mere ruins, with only a handful of areas having so far been pieced back together. On our visit, we could see just how painstaking the ongoing restoration is for the people tasked with revitalizing the faded glory of what was once a symbol of the wealth and might of the Caliphate of Córdoba.

Why visit if it’s mostly ruins? Because it’s not difficult to imagine just how opulent the place must have been once upon a time. Make sure you take the time to watch the informative introduction video and wander the museum of recovered artifacts before hopping on the shuttle bus to the archaeological site, as this will really help with reconstructing the fragments of sand-colored bricks and pillars into the fabulous palace-city they once formed.

And That’s How to Spend Two Weeks in Andalusia!

This is really just a taster of what Andalusia has to offer. We could have included the breathtaking clifftop town of Ronda (which we covered here in an earlier post ); the Tabernas desert, a picturesquely barren expanse used as a filming location not just by Spaghetti Western pioneer Sergio Leone but also Games of Thrones; or the Doñana National Park, a wetland reserve with beautiful walks and myriad birdlife. 

For people who love their beach time, 14 days in Andalusia might be better spent in the resort paradises of Marbella or Nerja. In our (perhaps controversial) opinion, however, a beautiful beach is a beautiful beach anywhere in the world, but the Cathedral of Seville, the Alhambra of Granada, the charming towns of Arcos de la Frontera and Ubeda, the Mezquita of Cordoba, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the precarious walkway of the Caminito del Rey are all utterly unique.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Beautiful Things to do in Andalusia, Spain

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 14, 2024

From the classic Alhambra to ‘Fifty Shades of Pink’, there are plenty of reasons to visit Andalusia Spain. Andalusia is such a magical place to me. It was the first Light & Land Tour I attended as a client in 1999 with landscape photographer Charlie Waite. From this moment on, I was lured to Andalusia and photography.

Travel to Andalusia – A Magical Photo Journey

All Andalusia Travel photos by Peter Hendrie if you’d like to photograph Andalusia, check out his upcoming photo tours

Now I lead this tour to Andalusia every February in search of the hectares and hectares of almond blossom in various shades of pink that line the steep-sided hills on the eastern foothills of the snow-capped Sierras Nevada mountain range.

There’s plenty more to enjoy about Andalusia.

1. Exploring the Alhambra – Granada

Known around the world, the Alhambra is the jewel in the crown of any visit to Andalusia. With the complete Arabic name as Qalat Al-Hamra, this a palace and fortress complex located in Granada.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, it’s easy to understand the draw that this place has on us all.

Considering the palace was built during the middle of the 13th century, its beauty remains remarkably intact. You have to marvel at the buildings’ intricate designs, detailed mosaics and hand-carved cedar panels.

Constructed by the Arabs as a stronghold, the Alhambra sits in a hillside location overlooking the Spanish city of Granada, with unforgettable views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the rolling hills of the Andalusian countryside. Read more: 26 Best Things to do in Granada, Spain

2. Witnessing the Almond Blossom

I’ve been lucky enough to visit and photograph some of the most amazing places around the globe, but nothing quite prepares the mind for the sways of shades of white and pink blossom that cascade down the hillside in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the Alpujarras region of Andalusia.

‘Fifty Shades of Pink’ pretty well sum up the feelings you get as you immerse yourself into the curves and crevasses, exploring grove after grove along the width and breadth of Las Alpujarras.

These blossoms offer up some fantastic photographic possibilities.

3. Whitewashed hilltop villages

Cast your mind back far enough to the era of the Spaghetti Westerns with those small villages that film directors would have you believe were filmed in the USA.

They were actually often filmed along the Alpujarras and Almeria in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, not in Mexico or the States as you would have imagined.

Andalusia in one of the few places in the world where you can find such villages hugging the hillside like limpets to rocks, often perched precariously high up on outcrops.

Perhaps the most picturesque villages are the famous trio of Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira that cling, one close above the other, to the slopes of the Poqueira Valley.

When the sun’s rays strikes the rooftops of Capileira mid-morning, the village illuminates the valley beneath the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

4. High-altitude ham and other top grub

At over 4,840 feet above sea level, Trevélez is the highest village in Europe, overhanging a fast-flowing river and plunging mountain valley with panoramic views across the valley and the sea beyond.

Trevélez is famous throughout Spain for its superb mountain air-cured hams, or Jamón Serrano.

Spain has developed an incredible reputation for food over the years, and you can expect tasty discoveries across Andalusia.

Other notable dishes to try here include gazpacho, Gambas al Ajillo (prawns with garlic and chilli oil) and fried fish, but there are plenty more, alongside wines, notably the wines of Jerez, including sherry. Read more Spanish Food: 17 Spanish Dishes to Try in Spain or at Home

Looking for other places to visit in Spain – Read about Barcelona at Night

5. Peace, quiet and lots of space

The Bohemian town of Orgiva, the base for Light & Land’s tour, nestles in the fertile valley of the Guadalfeo River.

Orgiva is 20 kilometers from Capileira and is the largest town of Las Alpujarras. This laidback town is a draw for those wanting to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern day life.

It’s truly relaxing to spend time here.

6. Marbella

7. National Parks and Villages

There are plenty of other ways to relax in Andalusia’s landscapes. Much of the land across Andalucia is protected as a national park or natural reserve. Large sections of the coast remain unspoilt, with peaceful beaches waiting to be walked on or photographed.

There are also plenty of quiet rural villages where the farming lifestyle appears much the same as it probably has been for decades, if not centuries.

If space, peace and quiet appeal to you, you’ll find plenty of it in Andalusia.

Going to Spain? Read more about these Spanish Cities

• Toledo, Beautiful Spanish History Awaits
• Cuenca and the Casas Colgadas
• 15 Free Things to do in Seville, Spain
• Camping in Spain: Everything You Need to Know
• Via Ferrata, Spain – Take your adventure to New Heights

Read More about another Spanish Cit ies

• A Local’s Guide to What to do in Barcelona at Night
• 26 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• Where to Stay in Barcelona
• Gaudi in Barcelona – 13 Must-See Architectural Wonders
• The 16 Most Romantic Cities on Earth

Author Bio:

Peter Hendrie leads Andalusia travel photography tours every February and shares his reasons for why you should visit Andalusia and fall in love with this magical Southern region of Spain .

Peter Hendrie will be guiding an “Almond Blossom and Architecture of Andalucia” photography workshop in Andalucia from Feb 09-13, 2018. For details, see Light and Land Photography Tours

Later in the year, he’ll be leading workshops in Exmoor, including Astrophotography and Coasts & Rivers. See More at Peter Hendrie Tours  For more on Peter’s photography, see his gallery at PenterHendriePhotography.com

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

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Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Alhambra: Tips, Tricks and Must-Sees

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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16 thoughts on “Beautiful Things to do in Andalusia, Spain”

Great post, am really excited as we’ve got an upcoming visit in June and the Alhambra is definitely top of the list! Very intrigued by the Almond Blossoms too, never knew about that!

Hey..your blog is very amazing, I love to visit everyday..

Andalusia is an incredible place to discover on Iberian Peninsula. It boasts finest Islamic style of architecture, your post is informative throws light on new areas. Genuinely helpful for everyone.

This is not the first of your posts I’ve read, and you never cease to amaze me. Thank you, and I look forward to reading more.

Love the article, Spain is a beautiful country – the people and the landscapes. Nice photographs. I try to visit Spain @ least once a year to explore the country. Keep up the good work and articles

Resourceful article and pictures are really wonderful, thanks for sharing the most intriguing experience. Al Hambra is the fantastic place to explore. I have great interest in historical places. I may visit Andalusia this year.

Andalusia is absolutely fabulous! Excellent pictures. Thank you so much for sharing it.

It is greate places as I like the see in photos. I wish to be there 🙂

Wow! What an explanation about Andalusia. Keep it up, Peter!

I just loved your pictures of andalusia thanks for sharing the article

I loved the article since I started my blog focusing mainly on travel, I drop by your blog almost every day. Your post gave me opportunity to look back on my stay in overseas for working and studying.Thank you for writing this. One of my favorite posts since I started following

Great place! Dream place! Thank you for those beautiful images and tips!

Andalusia is absolutely fabulous!! All great places to go! Looking awesome photos in your post! Thank you so much for sharing this great information..

I loved ANdalisia! So different, relaxed, delicious food! IF i meet some spanish guy I want to live there 😛

Amazing photos, very good photos, useful information. I have never been in Spain. Now it is on my list. Thanks for sharing!

this is extremely beautiful and amazing thanks for sharing the article

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Isabelle Hoyne
• May 20, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Essential links for booking your Andalucia trip

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

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

Andalusia’s history is a long one.

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

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

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

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

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

Planning your Andalucia road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting around Andalucia by train

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

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

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

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

Getting around Andalucia by bus

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

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

Hiring a car for an Andalusia road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It usually costs around €25-30 per day.

Is driving in Andalucia easy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Building your Southern Spain itinerary – places to visit

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

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

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

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

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

What to see & do in Ronda

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

Get acquainted with Ronda

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

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

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

Take in the views & the famous El Tajo Gorge

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

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

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

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

Get familiar with the surrounding countryside

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

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

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

Ronda bull ring

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

Where to stay in Ronda

Hotel catalonia reina victoria.

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

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

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

Catalonia Ronda

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

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

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

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

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

What to see & do in Seville

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

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

Alcázar of Seville

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

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

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

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

Seville Cathedral & Giralda

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

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

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

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

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

Rooftop cocktails

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

Plaza de España & Maria Luisa Park

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

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

Explore the neighbourhoods

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

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

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

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

Metropol Parasol

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

Where to stay in Seville

Casa romana hotel boutique.

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

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

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

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

Hotel Alfonso XIII

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

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

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

Soho Boutique Villa

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

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

Click here to discover a curated list of Seville holiday apartments

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

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

What to see & do in Cordoba

Visit the Mosque-Cathedral

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

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

Discover the Jewish Quarter

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

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

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

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos

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

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

Sample local dishes

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

Get acquainted with downtown Cordoba & its patios

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

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

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

Where to stay in Cordoba

Eurostars conquistador.

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

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

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

Hospes Palacio del Bailio

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

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

H10 Palacio Colomera

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

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

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

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

Related reading for Granada |

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

Where to stay in Granada

What to see & do in granada.

Visit the extraordinary Alhambra

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover Granada’s churches

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go shopping

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

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

Immerse yourself in the tradition of flamenco in Granada

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

Eat some tapas

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

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

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

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

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

Villa Oniria

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

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

Alhambra Palace

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

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

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

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

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

What to see & do in Nerja

Get some R&R

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

Explore the local area

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Nerja

Hotel balcón de europa .

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

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

Boutique holiday rental in Nerja

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

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

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

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

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

What to see & do in Malaga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Malaga

Palacio solecio, a small luxury hotel of the world.

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

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

Hotel Gran Hotel Miramar GL 

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

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

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• Hong Leong Islamic Bank and Andalusia Travel & Tours Collaborate to Enhance Umrah Experience for Muslims by Hong Leong Bank

Hong Leong Islamic Bank and Andalusia Travel & Tours Collaborate to Enhance Umrah Experience for Muslims

Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi (fourth from left) and Hajah Ida Riswana binti Idris (third from left) after inking the MOU between HLISB and Andalusia

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 January 2024 – In a bid to provide convenient, digital, and Shariah-compliant financing for Muslims embarking on their Umrah pilgrimage, Hong Leong Islamic Bank (“HLISB” or the “Bank”) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Andalusia Travel & Tours (“Andalusia”) to launch a groundbreaking collaboration. This partnership will see the Bank complementing Andalusia’s trusted Umrah packages with its comprehensive suite of personal Islamic banking products, aligned with the Bank’s commitment to upholding Islamic finance values and catering to the diverse lifestyle needs of its Muslim customers.

This collaboration means that Muslims planning their Umrah pilgrimage can finance their travels following Shariah principles by utilizing HLISB’s Islamic finance offerings, specifically the Personal Financing-i and Pay & Save Account-i. HLISB’s holistic Shariah-compliant products and services cater to various lifestyle needs, equipping Muslims with specific, digital, and personalized financial solutions.

Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi, CEO of HLISB , emphasized the Bank’s commitment to designing financial solutions that cater to the specific lifestyle needs of its Muslim customers. 

“As a financial intermediary, we are committed to designing financial solutions that cater to our customers’ specific lifestyle needs, following our promise to be “Built Around You”. In growing our Shariah capabilities, we want to provide a wide range of innovative products and services that ensure our Muslim customers have peace of mind in fulfilling their religious obligations.”

“This commitment extends to providing comprehensive digital accessibility through our mobile banking platforms, facilitating online Zakat payments, and presenting wealth management opportunities through our Term Investment Accounts-i and ASNB Unit Trust funds. Driven by a resolute customer-centric philosophy, our collaboration with Andalusia marks a significant stride toward delivering enhanced value to our customers. This strategic alliance actively addresses their diverse needs, empowering Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations with ease.”

As part of HLISB’s collaboration with Andalusia, which has been operating in the Islamic tourism sector for over 20 years, the Bank will offer its innovative HLISB Pay & Save Account-i and HLISB Personal Financing-i to Andalusia’s customers and members of the public who are looking to perform Umrah. 

The Personal Financing-i solution offers Shariah-compliant financing to customers to fulfill their religious obligations, which comes with up to 60% pay-on-time rebates on profit and a RM50 Touch n Go e-wallet reload pin with every successful application*. Meanwhile, the Bank’s Pay & Save Account-i provides up to 4.15% profit per annum on the account balance*. It also has a Multi-Currency feature, allowing for foreign currency spending with the HLB Debit Card, withdrawing foreign currencies from overseas ATMs, and direct conversion of MYR to foreign currencies at a competitive rate via HLB Connect.

Over the past 25 years, the number of Umrah pilgrims from Malaysia has increased by an estimated 900%1, indicating a substantial growth in Umrah travel since the country recorded a total of 30,000 pilgrims in 1998.  The Saudi government's special privileges for Malaysian tourists, such as replacing the Umrah visa with a tourist visa, have made Umrah package prices significantly cheaper, and Umrah travel bookings have become easier and more flexible.

Hajah Ida Riswana binti Idris, Director of Andalusia Travel & Tours, shared how this partnership presents a win-win situation for all parties, leveraging on a larger customer base who will reap the benefits.

“Our mission at Andalusia is to provide affordable and quality Umrah services to the Muslim community, in hopes that every Muslim gets to perform their religious duties without hassle and worry. This collaboration with HLISB ensures that our customers have access to Shariah-compliant, affordable, and digital ways to finance their Umrah pilgrimages with a holistic suite of financial tools and services. We believe that this will open more doors for the Muslim community to manage their finances effectively in today’s digital age while fulfilling their religious obligations with a Shariah-compliant financial foundation.”

Apart from the Pay & Save Accounts-i and Personal Financing-i, HLISB offers competitive wealth management opportunities through its Term Investment Account-i and in ASNB Unit Trust funds, both of which can be accessed fully on the HLB Connect mobile banking platform. Besides that, the Bank provides an online payment gateway for Muslim customers to fulfill their Zakat payments. Customers can also complete their Wasiat fully online through the HLB Connect mobile banking platform, benefitting from the Bank’s one-stop legacy planning and competitive e-Wasiat services. 

For more information on HLISB’s Pay & Save Account-i, please visit http://www.hlisb.com.my/pay&save-i

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