Andalusia Travel Guide - A Journey through Southern Spain
Andalusia is one of Spain’s most captivating regions. This is the Spain of your mind’s eye, home to cobbled town squares where the lilt of guitars wafts through nearby streets. It’s where traditional tapas bars serve delicious plates of food alongside crisp wines and fresh beers, and where the night is given over to the passions of flamenco, the traditional performance of the region.
Soaring cathedrals overlook the towns and cities, each home to a jumble of Roman ruins and remnants of Moorish Kingdoms.
Then, there are the landscapes. Along the Mediterranean, sun-drenched beaches, while inland, snow-capped peaks. The tourist resorts of the Costa del Sol are offset by craggy mountain towns, which seem like they haven’t changed in centuries.
This is a region of good food and wine, of flamenco music and bullfights, of modern cities and traditional towns. There’s good reason why this is one of the most popular parts of Spain for visitors: it’s truly wonderful!
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Table of Contents
What is Andalusia
Where is Andalusia
How to get here
Why visit?
Best time to visit
How long to spend
Where to stay - best bases
Transportation and how to get around
Top things to do
Best places to visit
Andalusia itineraries - from 5 to 10 days
Local help with your planning
Andalusia is the largest region in Spain and one of it’s most interesting to visit. Home to some of the country’s best beaches, countless charming towns, the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, and a clutch of beautiful cities, the only problem with planning a visit to Andalusia is that you never have enough time to see it all.
So for a little help sorting through your options and maximizing your time, consider scheduling a Spain travel consultation with one of our Local Experts!
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Where is Andalusia?
Photo: TUBS, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Andalusia is nestled in the southernmost part of mainland Spain, bordered by Portugal to the west and the autonomous communities of Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha to the north. The Mediterranean Sea also borders the region, offering pristine (albeit crowded) beaches.
Andalusia's capital, Seville, is approximately 536 km (333 miles) from Madrid, Spain's capital, making it easily accessible by road, air, or rail. The region encapsulates eight provinces: Almería, Cádiz, Córdoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaén, Málaga, and Seville. Major cities like Granada, Málaga, and Seville are well-known tourist hotspots, rich in history and culture.
The region's boundaries stretch from the sun-soaked Costa del Sol in the south to the Sierra Morena mountain range in the north, which separates Andalusia from the plains of Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura to the north.
Mountains also sweep down through the eastern edge of Andalusia and then along the coast, partly creating a geographical border between both Murcia to the northeast and a lot of the cities and towns perched along the Mediterranean coast.
How to get here
Andalusia is well connected with the rest of Spain and Europe, making it easily accessible by air, rail, or road. From within Spain, arriving in Madrid makes the most sense, from where you can take advantage of Spain’s excellent train network. The AVE high-speed train, operated by Spain’s national train company Renfe, can whisk you down to the region within hours.
From Madrid to Córdoba on the AVE high-speed train takes on average 1 hour and 40 minutes, with tickets costing somewhere between €30 and €90. Madrid to Seville takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs between €40 and €120.
It takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Málaga, with tickets costing between €50 and €130. Finally, from Madrid to Granada takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes, with tickets costing between €60 and €140.
Each of these cities also have airports, serviced by frequent flights from both Madrid and Barcelona within Spain as well as other popular domestic destinations such as the Canary Islands, Bilbao, Santiago de Compostela, and the Balearic Islands.
The airports in Málaga and Seville also enjoy plenty of international connections, which might mean you can fly directly into Andalusia from your airport.
Why visit?
Andalusia is a beautiful mix of mountains and sublime coastline. There are beaches a-plenty, and the Costa del Sol has been Spain’s tourism darling since its popularity exploded in the 1950s.
Strung along the coast is the impressive mountain range called the Baetic Cordillera, which stretches from the rock of Gibraltar all the way up to Alicante. In this mountain range are some of the tallest peaks in Andalusia, including those of the popular Sierra Nevada National Park that looks over the city of Granada.
Further north in the region away from the mountains, expect rolling hills and fertile plains, fed by the Guadalquivir River. Winding its way across the north of the region and swinging through both Córdoba and Seville, it’s the most important river in Andalusia, and the main reason why that northern corridor of Andalusia is one of the country’s most important agricultural areas.
When it comes to culture, Andalusia is first and foremost known for the classic Spanish stereotypes. It’s the birthplace of flamenco music and dance, a vibrant expression of the local culture that reverberates in the region’s taverns and tablaos (flamenco venues). It’s also where bullfighting first came about, and the region’s bullrings are amongst the most impressive and oldest in Spain.
Then, there’s the striking Moorish heritage of the region. Coming over from Northern Africa, Andalusia is where the Moors first took hold of the Iberian Peninsula, and here you’ll find their finest palaces, mosques, and fortresses scattered throughout the cities. Of these, most well-known is the Alhambra Palace in Granada, closely followed by the Mezquita in Córdoba, the city’s grand mosque.
Those who came before the Moors – the Phoenicians and Romans – also left their mark on the region. And then after the Spanish Reconquista, when the Christian Kingdoms of Spain routed the Moors from their stronghold, although a lot of the greatest works of Moorish architecture were added on to, rather than destroyed.
Historically, Andalusia is famed as the birthplace of flamenco music and dance, a vibrant expression of Andalusian culture that reverberates in the region's taverns and tablaos.
Its rich cultural heritage, rooted in Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish influences, is etched into its architectural masterpieces—from the magnificent Alhambra Palace in Granada to Seville's awe-inspiring Alcázar.
Connect with one of our Spain-based local experts for help perfecting your itinerary, answers to all your travel questions, and fabulous local tips!
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Andalusia is during the autumn months from September to November. This is when the weather remains warm enough for swimming, but the summer crowds have dwindled. It’s also a period with minimal rainfall. Average temperatures for September range between 57-79°F (14-26°C), around 48-73°F (9-23°C) in October, and 39-62°F (4-17°C) for November.
Keep in mind though that these are average for the entire region. On the coast will be generally much warmer and you’ll be able to go for a dip in the sea, while higher altitude cities and towns will be slightly colder, but perfect conditions for hiking.
The late spring months of April and May also offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, but rainfall is more common during this time. Easter in the Spring is a huge deal, with processions occurring in all the major cities.
The summer months of July and August can be extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C (86°F). While this is a popular time for beach lovers, it can be uncomfortable for sightseeing, particularly in inland areas. Often, you’ll have to shelter in your hotel during the hottest part of the day, usually between 3 and 6 in the afternoon.
Winter in Andalusia is mild compared to much of Europe, and thanks to the low prices it’s a great time to explore the area. Crowds are at their lowest but note that not every destination in Andalusia is about that winter sun; some places like Granada and Ronda have temperatures much lower than surrounding cities due to their high altitude.
Christmas lights are strung up in the major cities, and the shopping streets are full of life as everyone gets their shopping done.
How long to spend here
To truly immerse oneself in the beautiful culture and stunning landscapes of Andalusia, a stay of between 5–7 days is just right. This allows you to spend time in the cities with major attractions (Seville, Córdoba, and Granada), delve into the rich history of the area, and enjoy plenty of tapas as well.
Start off in Seville, the largest city in the region filled with Moorish history and some major sights: The Seville Cathedral, largest Gothic cathedral in the world; the Real Alcazár, a 10th-century palace, and the seductive Plaza de Espana, built for the 1929 Exposición Iberoamericana.
After two days in the city, make your way to Málaga on the coast by way of the pueblos blancos in the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema. These are the famous white villages of Andalusia, perched on the mountain tops and filled with narrow, cobbled lanes that were home to
After a day enjoying the buzzing old town of this port city, head northeast to Granada, worth another two days thanks to the wonderful Alhambra Palace, a Moorish fortified palace and one of the most important buildings in all of Andalusia.
Finish off with a day in Córdoba dedicated to exploring La Mezquita, the city’s grand mosque, and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Castle of the Christian Monarchs who built their fortress on top of a Moorish palace after the reconquest of Spain in the 14th century.
Where to stay - best bases
Basing yourself in the major cities in the region make the most sense for a trip to Andalusia, as they are some of the premier places to visit, but are also well served by public transportation and usually in easy reach of various nice day trip destinations.
The cities I’d recommend are Sevilla, Granada, Málaga, an Ronda (for a taste of village life and beautiful nature). Here’s a quick overview of each of them:
Sevilla
Sevilla is packed with things to see and do and is home to the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, the Royal Alcázar, an exquisite palace complex of arresting gardens and a fascinating combination of Christian and Moorish architectural details.
The city is also within easy driving distance of the pueblos blancos, and a short train ride away from both Córdoba and the western port city of Cádiz, making them easy day-trip options.
Granada
After Seville, it makes sense to spend a couple more days based in Granada. Home to the Alhambra, the world-famous Moorish palace, a passionate tapas culture (free tapas still comes with every drink you order here), and a bounty of Islamic and Christian architecture, there’s enough here to keep you very busy.
Granada is also surrounded by some picturesque pueblos blancos, and of course it’s also the main gateway into the Sierra Nevada National Park, the vast mountainous region just to the southeast that is one of Spain’s best areas for outdoor pursuits.
Málaga
Finally, Málaga is a buzzing city on the coast that has shrugged off its reputation as just the gateway to the Costa del Sol. This is a proud city full of interesting sights, such as the Picasso Museum (the Spanish artist was born in Málaga), a burgeoning arts scene with museums and the trendy SoHo district, as well as an impressive cathedral, an Roman amphitheater, and the Moorish Alcazaba fortress overlooking it all.
From here, tours also leave for the thrilling Caminito del Rey, a dizzying hike across boardwalks strung up throughout a deep gorge. It’s also easy to shoot down the coast to one of the many resorts there, where thousands of visitors flock every year for their sun and sand holidays.
Ronda
For exploring a more rural side of Andalusia, Ronda makes a good base. This is one of the larger pueblos blancos, and the city was once a major strategic point on the road between Seville and Granada. Everyone who had a turn ruling Andalusia coveted this town; the Romans, the Moors, and the Christians all fought over it thanks to the control it provided over the surrounding, resource-rich area.
Built on top of a sheer gorge in the mountain carved out by the river, there are incredible views from this lofty vantage point, while inside the town, you can visit interesting spots like one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, the ancient Moorish bathhouse, and enjoy the lively tapas scene as well.
Ronda also acts as a convenient base for trips into the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, which borders the town to the southeast.
Transportation and how to get around
The best way to get around within Andalucía is by using a combination of public transport (trains and buses) and rental cars. The train network in Spain is one of the best in Europe, with high-speed links between all the major cities within Andalucía.
Then, for days when you want to venture away from the major cities, rental cars make the most sense – for example if you want to do a tour of the white villages in the mountains.
This combination gives you the best of both worlds; the convenience of the frequent trains, and the flexibility of your own car when necessary.
Renting a car
Renting a car for your entire trip is also a great way to explore Andalucía. This is recommended for those travelers who are interested in exploring outside of the major cities, plotting a route through the pueblos blancos, or visiting the natural parks for hiking.
Tourism infrastructure within Andalucía is fantastic, so renting a car is easy. You’ll find offices of the major brands in all the cities and airports, and compact cars can cost as little as 13 euros per day in winter (without comprehensive insurance of course).
To check prices and book, I recommend using the following two car rental websites:
DiscoverCars includes offerings from all the major international rental companies as well as lots of smaller local agencies, which often have much better pricing. You can often find great deals.
RentalCars is very similar, although they tend to list mostly larger companies. It’s now owned by Booking.com, so is backed by a familiar and reputable brand. Their prices are good too.
Driving in Andalusia
Driving in Andalucía is generally straightforward, with well-signposted roads and motorways. However, be aware that rural roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in mountainous areas.
Parking
Parking can be challenging in cities like Seville and Granada, where narrow streets and limited parking spaces are the norm. That goes double for the smaller villages you explore, and parking at the most popular pueblos blancos can be competitive.
Public transportation
Andalucía offers a variety of public transport options, including buses, trains, and ride-sharing apps. You can easily travel between the main cities and towns of the region by bus or train, which are frequent, comfortable, and affordable.
You’ll find Uber in Seville, Málaga, and the wider Costa del Sol area. In other places such as Córdoba, Granada, and Cádiz, you’ll have to rely on taxis (which are very affordable). Trams are available in some urban areas, such as Seville and Málaga, while ferries connect the coast with the islands and North Africa.
However, public transport in Andalucía has some limitations, especially in rural areas and natural parks, where services are less frequent or non-existent. If you want to explore the countryside, the villages, or the mountains, you may need to rent a car or join a tour.
Generally, buses are cheaper than trains, and local transport is cheaper than long-distance transport. You can buy tickets online, at the station, or on board, depending on the service.
You can also use a travel card, such as the Tarjeta de Transporte Metropolitano, which offers discounts and convenience for frequent travelers. The average price of a bus ticket in Andalucía is 1 euro, while the average price of a train ticket is 15 euros.
Where to book bus and train tickets
In general, I recommend booking your public transport tickets directly with the service provider. That said, when you have a lot of options or when you’re not familiar with the different companies, it can be confusing to look them all up.
Omio is an aggregator I like that shows options for public transport routes all over Europe. When you do a search, you’ll be able to see all your options for trains, buses, flights, and even ferries along with a host of different companies that provide the services. Comparing prices is easy, the site has a great design, and you can keep all your bookings in one place. It costs a little bit more than booking direct, but it’s really convenient.
Top things to do in Andalusia
Andalusia offers a myriad of experiences to cater to every interest. History buffs can explore the region's rich past through its numerous archaeological sites and museums. Nature lovers will be spoilt for choice with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and bird watching in the region's national and natural parks.
1. Learn About Spain’s Moorish Heritage
Nowhere else in Spain has as much Moorish heritage as Andalusia does. Fortresses tower above towns, fierce on the outside but beautifully detailed inside.
There’s the Alcazaba in Málaga, and of course the Alhambra Palace in Granada, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. La Mezquita mosque in Córdoba is just as impressive, a true work of art and one of the most beautiful examples of Moorish architecture in the world.
Connected to this are the historic buildings that came after the reconquest, which stretched from the early 13th century until the last Muslim stronghold, the Emirate of Granada, surrendered in 1492.
Gothic cathedrals were built over mosques, but in some cases the styles combine, creating a unique architecture style. The Mezquita in Córdoba was turned into a cathedral, with a Renaissance-style nave added to the center of the building. The Alhambra was partially demolished and rebuilt. The minaret of the main mosque in Seville was repurposed as the belltower of the city’s cathedral.
The region’s history is there for all to see and showcased in some of the most spectacular buildings and stories found in Spain.
2. Experience A Flamenco Show
No visit to Andalusia would be complete without experiencing the raw emotion and passion of flamenco. This traditional Andalusian art form, encompassing dance, music, and song, can be enjoyed in tablaos (flamenco venues) across the region. Seville is renowned for its vibrant flamenco scene, as is Granada.
The art form is generally believed to have developed in the region’s lower classes, especially the Gypsies who had settled in the area during the 15th century. Passionate singing and dancing are accompanied by the intense strumming of guitar and handclapping and footstomping, all working together to create an emotionally intense performance.
Today, it’s recognized as a World Heritage by UNESCO, cementing it as a symbol of Andalusia.
3. Hike El Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey (the King’s Little Path) is a thrilling walkway that runs along the walls of the Gaitanes Gorge near Málaga. This path was built in the early 20th century as a service route for the workers of the hydroelectric plants in the area, and it was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, hence its name.
The Caminito del Rey became famous for its spectacular views and its extreme danger, as many sections of the original path deteriorated, collapsed, or were missing. Thrill-seekers from around the world flocked here, and it was dubbed the most dangerous hike in the world.
In 2015, after a comprehensive restoration, the Caminito del Rey reopened as a safe and accessible attraction, offering all the thrilling views of the original pathway without the plummeting to your death below. The hiking path is about 4.8 miles (7.7km) long and takes around 3 – 4 hours to complete.
4. Road Trip Through the Pueblos Blancos
Andalusia’s pueblos blancos, or white villages, are charming towns and villages that dot the mountains and valleys of southern Spain. They are named for their whitewashed houses, which reflect the sunlight and contrast with the green or brown landscape.
The pueblos blancos have a rich and diverse history, influenced by the different cultures that inhabited the region, such as the Romans, the Moors, the Jews, and the Gypsies. A unique atmosphere still pervades many of the pueblos blancos today.
Some of the most popular pueblos blancos to visit are Arcos de la Frontera, Ronda, Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, and Casares. Each offers a glimpse into the authentic and rural life of Andalusia.
5. Visit a Bullring
Bullfighting is a tradition that is deeply ingrained in Andalusian culture. While not to everyone's taste, visiting a bullring can provide insight into this controversial aspect of Andalusian heritage.
The bullring in Ronda, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Spain, also houses a museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting.
6. Relax along the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is a region that’s famous in southern Spain as one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Since the 50s, this strip of coast has developed from small fishing villages into large tourist resorts, with hotels dotting the shoreline.
The sunny climate and easy access to beaches is the big draw for tourists here. There are golf courses, water parks, and plenty of nightlife as well, making it a tourist mecca.
However, it can be hard to feel as if the region is authentic at all. Things seem to revolve entirely around tourism, although the further south you go, the more authentic things begin to feel again.
7. Explore Andalusia’s National Parks
Andalusia has three national parks: Sierra Nevada, Doñana, and the Sierra de las Nieves. The Sierra Nevada and Sierra de las Nieves are both mountainous parks, full of wonderful hiking trails, forests, and wildlife.
The Parque Nacional de Doñana on the other hand is a vast area of wetlands on the Atlantic Coast, a hugely important area that is home to flamingos and hundreds of thousands of other migratory birds.
Best places to visit in Andalusia
1. Seville
Known for its stunning Moorish architecture, vibrant flamenco scene, and delicious cuisine, Seville is a city that encapsulates the spirit of Andalusia. Don't miss the Real Alcázar palace complex, one of the most beautiful buildings in Spain, or the iconic Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Then, there are the city’s leafy parks that border the river running through the city, and the extravagant Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Iberoamericana exhibition, and a passionate flamenco culture that will capture your imagination.
2. Real Alcázar de Sevilla
The Real Alcázar de Seville is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in Spain. The palace complex, which started as a fort in 913, has been transformed many times over the centuries by the Muslim and Christian rulers of Seville, each adding their own style and features to the original structure.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of beautiful courtyards, gardens, fountains, and halls, all of it decorated with Islamic geometric patterns, arabesques, calligraphy, and tiles. You can also enjoy amazing views over Seville, and the winding river that cuts it in half, from the palace’s towers and walls.
3. Granada
Dominated by the magnificent Alhambra palace, Granada is a city where Moorish and Christian cultures blend seamlessly. Wander through the narrow streets of the Albaicín district, sample tapas in a traditional bar, and take in the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains that tower over the city. This is the place to feel the presence of history, with the Moorish history so evident in the city that it’s impossible to ignore.
Granada is also one of the most famous cities in Spain when it comes to tapas. The bars and restaurants here still adhere to the old ways, where a complementary plate of food comes with any drinks order.
4. The Alhambra Palace
As mentioned briefly above, the Alhambra sits on a hill above Granada, and is one of the most famous attractions in Spain. This Moorish palace and fortress was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, and acted as the last bastion of Islamic power in Andalusia in the face of the Spanish Reconquest by the Christians.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site holds a wealth of Islamic art and gorgeous architectural detail, with the courtyards, grand halls, and verdant patios easily capturing your imagination.
5. Sierra Nevada National Park
For nature lovers, the Sierra Nevada National Park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. In winter, it's a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Of all the national and natural parks in Andalusia, this is by far the most popular and well-known.
Granada acts as a good base for adventures into the national park, but you can also stay in smaller towns on the southern edge of the park, such as Trevélez, Capileira, or Órgiva.
6. Córdoba
Once the capital of the Islamic Emirate and then Caliphate of Córdoba, this city boasts the mesmerizing Mezquita (listed below), a mosque-cathedral that's a testament to the city’s important Moorish past.
As one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world, visitors are so often focused on La Mezquita that they forget about Córdoba.
But it’s also an impressive place to spend some days if you can spare, with the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Castle of the Christian Kings) and plenty of stone laneways that lead you past secretive patios overflowing with plants, hidden squares and restaurants, and an old-world atmosphere.
7. La Mezquita
La Mezquita of Córdoba is a unique and unforgettable attraction, a stunning fusion of Islamic and Christian art and architecture. The former mosque, which was converted into a cathedral in the 16th century, is one of the most impressive monuments of Islamic culture in the world.
Inside is spacious and serene, a captivating space filled with columns and arches that create a sense of harmony and infinity.
The mosque was built by Abd ar-Rahman I in AD 784, on the site of a Visigothic church, and expanded three times by his successors. The entire building reflects a sophisticated era in Córdoba’s history, when the city was a cultural hub where Muslims, Jews and Christians coexisted peacefully.
8. Málaga
The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga offers a wealth of art and culture, from its prestigious Picasso Museum to the contemporary art center, Centre Pompidou Málaga.
The city's historic center is one of the liveliest places in all of Spain, and not just with tourists there to see the Moorish fortress, the Roman amphitheater, or the famous cathedral.
The bars and restaurants here are packed with some incredible tapas, and every lunch and dinner time the historic core turns into a giant street party of drinking and dining.
9. Málaga’s Alcazaba
A small taster of what’s on offer at the Alhambra in Granada, Málaga’s Alcazaba is a gorgeous, fortified palace overlooking the town, built by the Muslim rulers of Málaga back between the 10th and 15th centuries.
Inside, there are fragrant tree-filled patios, rushing fountains and leafy plants, and beautiful courtyards filled with Moorish motifs and their telltale geometric patterns. It’s the perfect spot to visit if you don’t have time to make it to Granada to see the Alhambra.
10. The Costa del Sol
From the glitz and glamour of Marbella to the quieter beaches further south, the Costa del Sol is a sunseeker’s paradise. Although it is also one of the most touristed parts of Spain, with a lot of built-up hotel infrastructure, so expect lots of crowds at most times of the year, and plenty of other tourists.
A good rule of thumb is that the further from Málaga you get, the less crowded and more authentic things begin to feel. Marbella is all glitz and glamor, with billionaire yachts at anchor in the water, but head to Estepona at the southern end of the Costa to discover a beautiful old village with a pretty historic core and a more authentic feel.
11. The Picasso Museum
One of the finest museums in Andalusia is the Picasso Museum, located in Málaga, the city where Pablo Picasso was born. Inside is a wealth of his artworks taken from different stages of his life, painting a picture of his vivid life.
There’s always a line, so book your ticket in advance.
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12. El Caminito del Rey Hiking Trail
El Caminito del Rey is a thrilling hiking path that runs along the steep walls of a narrow gorge near Málaga. The path was originally built in the early 20th century to provide access for workers and materials for a hydroelectric project, but it became famous for its dangerous conditions and spectacular views.
Thrill seekers from around the world came to hike the trail, and sadly, several hikers lost their lives on the trail. Today, after extensive renovation, the trail is once again open, with a new walkway providing a safe way to cross the original route through the spectacular gorge, where the cliffs plunge down 700 meters into the Guadalhorce River below.
13. Ronda
Situated atop a deep gorge, Ronda offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Its historic bullring, charming old town, and the dramatic Puente Nuevo bridge (spanning the gorge) are among its top attractions.
As a historic waypoint on the road between Seville and Granada, it’s also a place where everyone has left their mark: the Romans, the Moors, and the Christians.
This is also a place where legendary tales abound of bandits and outlaws, who hid in the surrounding mountains and raided caravans as they carried goods to and from the city.
14. Cádiz
Quite possibly the oldest city in Western Europe, Cádiz is a charming outpost on the western Atlantic coast of Spain. Founded as a trading post by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC, the history here is palpable. But it’s also a modern place, with lovely seaside promenades, feisty festivals, and welcoming locals.
The maritime history of Cádiz is obviously a big draw here, but the city also has a grand cathedral and plenty of ancient towers atop old merchant houses, leftover from the days when Cádiz acted as a major trading port with the Americas.
15. The Caves of Nerja
The caves of Nerja are a natural attraction near the town of Nerja in the province of Málaga. Discovered in 1959 by a group of young explorers who were looking for bats, they stretch for just over 3 miles and contain fantastic geological formations as well as ancient paintings dating back to the Paleolithic era.
Photo: Luisgar, CC BY-SA 3.0 ES, via Wikimedia Commons
16. Punta Paloma Beach
Punta Paloma is a beautiful beach and headland near the town of Tarifa, one of the southernmost points in Spain. It is famous for its huge sand dunes that rise from the shore, offering views of the coast and across the Strait of Gibraltar towards the northern tip of Africa.
It’s a popular spot for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, and in contrast to the Costa del Sol, it maintains a natural and wild atmosphere, with no buildings or facilities nearby.
Andalusia itineraries - from 5 to 10 days
5-day Itinerary: Highlights of Andalusia
Day 1 – Seville: Real Alcázar de Seville, Seville Cathedral, the Old Town
Day 2 – The Pueblos Blancos & Ronda: The Moorish Bathhouse, Puente Nuevo, Ronda’s Bullring
Day 3 – Granada: The Alhambra Palace, Albaicín Neighborhood
Day 4 – Granada: The Jewish Quarter, the Granada Cathedral, the Old Town
Day 5 – Córdoba: La Mezquita, Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
7-day Itinerary: Sevilla, Cádiz, Málaga, and the Pueblos Blancos
Day 1 – Seville: Real Alcázar de Seville, Seville Cathedral, the Old Town
Day 2 – Cádiz: Cathedral of Cádiz, The Roman Theater
Day 3 – Arcos de la Frontera
Day 4 – Zahara de la Sierra
Day 5 – Ronda: Puente Nuevo, Ronda’s Bull Ring, & the Moorish Bathhouse
Day 6 – El Caminito del Rey Hiking Trail
Day 7 – Málaga: The Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, the Old Town
10-day Itinerary: Andalusia in-depth
Day 1 – Seville: Historic center, Seville cathedral, tapas
Day 2 – Seville: Real Alcázar de Seville, Museo de Bellas Artes
Day 3 – Córdoba: La Mezquita & the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Day 4 – Granada: The Alhambra Palace, Albaicín Neighborhood
Day 5 – Granada or the Sierra Nevada National Park
Day 6 – Málaga: The Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, the Old Town
Day 7 – Málaga: The Port, Centre Pompidou Málaga, Malagueta Beach
Day 8 – El Caminito del Rey Hiking Trail & Ronda
Day 9 – Ronda: Puente Nuevo, The Moorish Bathhouse, and more Pueblos Blancos
Day 10 – Cádiz: Cathedral of Cádiz, The Roman Theater, Victoria Beach
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