The beautiful Andalusia is on the southern Iberian Peninsula, alongside the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Its eight provinces offer a diverse travel experience reflecting both traditional and modern Spain.
History buffs will love visiting Córdoba, Granada, and Seville, each boasting the remains of Spain’s Moorish history. It’s also an ideal destination for a road trip, which was my and my partner’s primary means of transportation during our September 2024 visit.
Among many others, here are six of my favorite memories from our holiday in this enchanting region!
#1: Magical Evening in Arcos de la Frontera
The whitewashed village of Arcos de la Frontera hosted the most stunning sunset experience of our trip. The patio of the Parador Hotel, the perfect venue for such, did not disappoint. With a refreshing Tinto de Verano cocktail in hand, we watched the ever-changing hues of amber cast upon the Iglesia de San Pedro, perched high on the distant cliffs.
For most, the old town in Arcos is a day-trip destination. But truly, it casts its spell in the evening when what remains are the locals and a few tourists who know to stay. After viewing that vivid sunset, we took a short walk along the cobblestones to a nearby restaurant for dinner.
We laughed out loud, reliving our scary experience driving the rental car through the narrow passageways of the old town. It was an unforgettable evening, as we devoured a delicious paella and lovely dessert in the company of many lively locals.
#2: The Spectacular Andalusian Horses
As a little girl, I would sneak under my grandmother’s fence to pet the horses in the pasture next door. Naturally, I could not resist visiting the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Arts in Jerez de la Frontera.
The famous Andalusian horses are truly magnificent, their heritage dating back to the 15th century. The grounds of the school are beautiful and a joy to stroll. But nothing compares to the equestrian ballet ‘How the Horses Dance’.
Jerez also produces sherry and brandy, making it a perfect place to visit one of the city’s many wine bodegas. It would also be an ideal town to catch a Flamenco show, this art form having deep roots in the region.
#3: The Enchanting Caminito del Rey
I have issues with heights. I also like to push myself beyond my comfort zone. What better marriage of the two than to hike the Caminito del Rey? To appreciate the beauty and fear factor associated with this hike, please enjoy the scenic video Caminito del Rey – ‘the world’s most dangerous walkway’.
Don’t worry; the route is now restored, and no longer considered dangerous. Instead, it is a lovely way to spend a day outdoors enjoying beautiful scenery coupled with the thrill of a challenge! I will not soon forget our adventure trekking in suspension around the cliffs of this spectacular gorge.
#4: Nerja – The Jewel of the Costa
People know the southern coast of Andalusia as the Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun). We made stops in Estepona, Málaga, and Nerja. Hands down, Nerja was my favorite seaside town of those visited.
I loved the laid-back vibe, the magnificent views, and our casual evening dining experiences. We relaxed on loungers sprawled across our hotel’s lush lawn the first day of our visit. Perched high on a cliff above the sea, we enjoyed panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the beautiful Sierra Almijara mountains.
Day two, we set out to explore the lively and charming old town. Filled with shops, bakeries, restaurants, and tapas bars, it generates fun and inviting energy. Like most tourists visiting Nerja, we also made our way to the famous Balcon de Europa, teeming with street artists, musicians, and panoramic views!
#5: The Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, and Generalife Gardens in Granada
This experience was nothing less than evocative. The Alhambra, a palace and fortress of the Moorish Monachs of Granada, Spain, sits on a rocky hill overlooking the city on the banks of the Darro River. A stroll through the palaces, gardens, and grounds transported me back in time.
I wondered what it must have been like to be a part of its daily existence before its fall to the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand II and Isabella I in January 1492. Cocoa and Lavender will take you on a magnificent photographic journey through this crown jewel of Granada, which was a favorite and not to be missed!
#6: Evening View in Córdoba
An evening stroll across the Roman Bridge in Córdoba rewards you with beautiful views in each direction. At the southern end stands the Torre de Calahorra, an ancient defense fortress that is currently the Living Museum of al-Andalus.
But the most breathtaking view is from the south end, looking back across the Roman Bridge and the Guadalquivir River. In the distance stands the illuminated Mosque-Cathedral (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba). This treasured view remains vivid in my memories of Córdoba.
Then There Was Madrid!
Madrid, though not in Andalusia, offered the most economical round-trip airfare. I wasn’t particularly excited about visiting this large city, but I wasn’t about to pass it up without a look. I did not regret that decision and wished for more time in the fabulous capital of Spain.
We chose a hotel in the city’s heart for proximity to the historic center. With little agenda, except for sampling churros and chocolate at the famed Chocolateria San Gines, we simply strolled the city streets, enjoying the beautiful architecture, shops, and Retiro Park.
Our time in Madrid was the perfect ending to our journey, including attending a passionate Flamenco performance. Oh, to return one day and visit the many museums and other offerings of this vibrant city!
The Details of Planning Our Trip
After an overnight flight from the States, we arrived at Madrid Barajas airport at 9:00 a.m. From the airport, we transferred to the Madrid Atocha Train Station via local train accessed at level 1 in T4. We lunched at the train station, then cleared security for our 1:00 p.m. departure to Seville (arriving at 3:45 p.m.), where our journey began.
We used high-speed trains to travel from Madrid to Seville, Granada to Córdoba, and Córdoba to Madrid. Within those larger cities, we booked centralized accommodations and were mostly on foot. We rented a car at the Santa Justa Train Station upon departure from Seville and turned it in at the train station in Granada upon arrival.
Full Itinerary
It is challenging to create an itinerary for a limited amount of time when a region has so much to offer! From the time we left home to the time we returned was 17 days. The following, in the order listed, are the primary locations visited:
Seville
Duration: 3 nights
Paid Tours:
Related: For me, Seville is to Spain as Florence is to Italy! City&See-A City Guide to Seville, Spain is a great introductory reference to this captivating city. Our evening food tour (listed above) was a fun way to see neighborhoods, sample delicious tapas and regional wines, and to learn about the culture of the region. We also loved our stay, including brunch and dinner, in the inviting courtyard of the historic Hotel Alfonso XIII. Be sure to visit the grounds and lobby regardless of your accommodations in Seville!
Arcos de la Frontera
Duration: 1 night
Paid Tours: None
Related: Read about our delightful afternoon/evening in Arcos above. Arcos de la Frontera: the gateway to the White Villages, will further acquaint you with this charming village.
Estepona with Day-trip to Gibraltar
Duration: 2 nights
Paid Tours: Taxi tour in Gibraltar
Related: The resort city of Estepona is perfect for a bit of R&R. We enjoyed our stay at the lovely Kempinski Hotel Bahia. In the evening, we strolled through the colorful old town, shopping and people watching. We then made our way to the beautiful boardwalk alongside the sea. During our stay, we enjoyed a half-day visit to the British Territory of Gibraltar, a short (35 min.) drive from Estepona. How to Plan a day-trip to Gibraltar from Spain is a useful resource in planning your visit.
Ronda & the Caminito del Rey
Duration: 2 nights
Paid Tours: Guided group hiking tour (regular tickets sell out well in advance, so it was our only option for hiking the Caminito del Rey).
Related: From Estepona, we enjoyed a scenic drive through the mountains to the starting location of our Caminito del Rey hike scheduled for 4:20 p.m. After completing the hike, we drove to Ronda that evening for a two-night stay. Ronda is another lovely white village that can get seriously crowded with day-trippers! Still, it remains charming, the gorge and panoramic views being a photographer’s dream! Here are suggestions on the Top Ten Things to Do in Ronda, Spain.
Málaga
Duration: 1 night
Paid Tours: None
Related: My intent was to visit the bustling coastal city of Málaga as a day-trip from Nerja (spending 3 nights in Nerja rather than 2). It didn’t work out, but all said, we enjoyed our one-night stay at the beautiful Gran Hotel Miramar. Here are the Top 15 attractions suggested for Málaga.
Nerja
Duration: 2 nights
Paid Tours: None
Related: I described the highlights of our stay in Nerja above, but Nerja Turismo informs of the many things to see and do in and near this relaxed seaside town. A perfect ending to our visit was dinner at Bakus, a restaurant I recommend. Its patio seating boasts lovely views of the sea, yet the inside seating experience is equally splendid. The food and drink are delectable!
Granada
Duration: 1 night
Paid Tours:
Related: We rushed our Granada & Córdoba itineraries, but each was doable. Still, these destinations absolutely deserve more time. With a mid-afternoon arrival to Granada, we checked into the Hotel Alhambra Palace, explored the city on the hop-on hop-off tour, and enjoyed a sunset dinner with spectacular panoramic views from the hotel’s patio restaurant.
The next morning, we checked out, stored our bags, then met up for our 10:00 a.m. tour listed above. Post tour, we grabbed a quick lunch and caught the 3:45 p.m. train to Córdoba (arriving at 5:07 p.m.). Here are more ideas on how to spend the perfect day in Granada.
Córdoba
Duration: 1 night
Paid Tours: Córdoba Mosque & Jewish Quarter Guided Tour with Tickets
Related: We loved our brief stay at the Balcon De Cordoba Hotel tucked away on a little side street near the center of the historic district. Our evening included a delightful dinner on the patio of the hotel, followed by a walk through the historic center, culminating with a magical stroll across the Roman Bridge (mentioned above).
The next morning, we enjoyed our booked tour, a quick lunch, and caught the 2:42 p.m. train to Madrid (arriving at 5:07 p.m.). How to spend one day in Córdoba is a delightful video that will persuade you to visit!
Madrid
Duration: 3 nights
Paid Tours: None
Related: I summarize our experience in Madrid above, but for more information, view the link first time in Madrid, everything you need to know. If you crave delicious Asian cuisine in an exceptional atmosphere while visiting Madrid, I highly recommend dining at Lelong Asian Club.
Other Tips for Your Visit
- Book train reservations (and accommodations) well in advance if traveling during the summer and shoulder seasons. All train stations we traveled through had security checkpoints. Some were a breeze, others were busier. Do factor this into your arrival time.
- Be sure to have your passport with you for any paid tours booked. Tour operators and major tour locations will ask for it.
- Take advantage of happy hour since drinks come with free tapas!
- For road trippers, I read many negative reviews of rental car company experiences. I finally chose Alamo (least critical reviews) with no issues. We opted to purchase full insurance coverage for peace of mind, namely mine. I recommend a small vehicle for easier navigation through the region.
Yes, I’m a Hopeless Romantic
Hopefully, by now I’ve convinced you to add this beautiful region to your bucket list! I am a hopeless romantic with Italy being a favored travel destination. However, Andalusia, Spain now shares a sacred space in my heart!
Please Join the Conversation:
Have you traveled through Andalusia, Spain? What were your favorite destinations and why? What other areas of Spain have you loved visiting?
