6 Must-Visit Destinations in Andalusia, Spain
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You’ll find Andalusia in the south of the Iberian Penisula which is Spain’s most populated autonomous community. A region known for its sunny coastline, flamenco dancing, striking architecture and historic towns, be sure to add it to your Spain travel itinerary.
After 7 months in Latin America, I didn’t want our trip to end. So when our flight meant a layover in Madrid the most logical thing to do was to plan a 3-week long Andalusian adventure, to delay the inevitable homecoming.
Spending 3 weeks travelling around Andalusia was one of the best decisions I have made, the vibes were on point. It’s impossible to tell you where my favourite stop was, hence today's post running you through the 6 must-visit places in Andalusia.
Fun Fact- The name Andalusia came from the Arabic word Al-Andulas which is what the area was known as under Moorish rule from the 8th-15th century.
Cádiz
Cádiz is an ancient port city with some dreamy coastal views. This is the place to come if you're not sure whether you are after a city break or a beach break. You can combine taking a dip in the ocean with walking the cobbled streets and tasting traditional Andalusian cuisine.
My favourite part of Cádiz was just strolling along the coastline. In particular, the view of the Cathedral de Cádiz with the gleaming blue ocean water to its side was a sight to behold. It is the perfect coastal city to add to your Andalusia trip.
Top Things to Do in Cádiz, Spain
Get your beach on at La Caleta Beach
Visit the Plaza de las Flores and Mercado Central
Stroll around Alameda Apodaca Park
See the Cathedral de Cádiz and the Bell Tower
Seville
Seville the capital of Andalusia and famous for oranges, tapas and sunshine, is a city you must visit in Spain. You’ll feel the life in Seville as soon as you meander the cobbled alleyways. Historians date the city back to the 8th century so safe to say there’s a lot of life that has been lived in Seville.
I fell in love with Seville during my time there, it was the perfect mix of relaxing and intriguing. You can spend your days taking tours of historical sites and discovering the culture. Or maybe you're looking for a more slow-paced holiday with spa trips, shopping and searching for the best tapas dish.
Top Things to Do in Seville, Spain
Visit the Real Alcazar de Sevilla
Cruise or paddle along the Guadalquivir River
Try a ceramic painting workshop in the neighbourhood of Triana
Explore the Cathedral de Sevilla and Giralda Bell Tower
Read my Seville travel guide for more details ->
Cordoba
You will not regret visiting Cordoba, it has to be one of Andalusia’s most stunning cities. With both a Roman and Moorish history the city has a blend of the two styles that will have you falling for its beauty in no time.
Famously Cordoba is known for the Mesquita or the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, which speaks to the aforementioned blend of two usually very opposite styles. But the beauty of the city doesn’t end there. Between all the white homes and flower-lined streets, you will find some incredible patios. In May the annual Patios de Córdoba festival is held, in which locals open up their courtyards for visitors and judges to find the most magical patio in Córdoba.
Top Things to Do in Cordoba, Spain
Discover the stunning courtyards of Palacio de Vianna
Climb to the top of the Mesquita Cathedral Tower for incredible views
Walk along the Roman Bridge and see the Almodovar Gate
Go to a light show at Alcazar de los Reyes
Granada
In the shadow of the great Sierra Nevada mountain range, Granada is another must-visit city in Andalusia. You'll have a neverending list of things to do in this Andalusian town from flamenco shows to tapas tastings and visiting the infamous Alhambra.
The attractions are spread around the city and with the Alhambra towering over everywhere, you will quickly realise you are in for a hilly journey if your main mode of transport is your feet. However, after working out all the leg muscles wandering the tiny alleyways, be sure to refuel yourself with some churros. Granada is home to the most delicious churros in Andalusia, in my opinion.
Top Things to Do in Granada, Spain
Visit the famous Alhambra (be sure to get tickets in advance)
Hike the Los Cahorros trail in the Sierra Nevada mountain range
Eat churros at Cafe Bib Rambla
Watch a sunset from San Nicholas or San Miguel viewpoint
Discover the neighbourhood of and stop by the Cave Museum
Malaga
Malaga was the destination that surprised me the most in Andalusia, I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. Compared to the likes of Granada, Sevilla and Córdoba its praises don’t get sung as much. This may be due to the more commercial style of the city, however, don’t write it off. I loved sitting on the streets of Malaga, having some nibbles, a drink or two and soaking in the surroundings.
As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, you’ll also find an artistic side to Malaga. On many of the streets, you’ll find shops selling local crafts, a great place to find some Andalusian-style souvenirs. And with reliable public transport connecting Malaga with some sandy beaches around the Costa del Sol, it’s the perfect spot for a beach day or five.
Top Things to Do in Malaga, Spain
Check out the beautiful architecture of the Alcazaba
Take in views of the city from Mirador de Gibralfaro
Head outside the city and hike the famous Camino del Rey
Bask in beautiful views over the city from Castillo de Gibralfaro
Did You Know? Andalusia’s coastline is over 1000km and runs along both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nerja
As a resort town on the Mediterranean Sea, you can bet you’ll find some of the most inviting ocean waters here. With a different feel to many of the other places I have mentioned earlier, Nerja is the place to come if you want more of a relaxing Andalusian travel destination.
With a laid-back style, you won’t cram your day full of sightseeing here, although there are sights to be seen. Have a slow visit, wander the streets lined with white buildings and spend your days on some of the most beautiful beaches in Andalusia.
Top Things to Do in Nerja, Spain
Visit the Balcon de Europa and stroll the nearby streets
Paddle board or kayak to the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs
Discover the wonder of the Nerja Caves
Visit the neighbouring town of Frigiliana
How to Travel Around Andalusia, Spain
It’s often difficult to pick one destination to explore, but you don’t have to. How do you get around these beautiful destinations you wonder? I have the answer and luckily there are options depending on your travel style and budget.
By Car
You can rent a car to explore the Spanish region of Andalusia. It means you can dance to the beat of your drum and stop wherever you wish and who doesn’t love a good road trip?
I recommend comparing the prices of rental cars on booking.com and shopping around for the best price. Be sure to have decent insurance as you don’t want any unexpected bills at the end of your trip.
For navigating your way around Andalusia, Spain, download Waze, the only driving app I will ever trust. It’s regularly updated and will make sure you are headed on the quickest path to your destination.
By Train
The region of Andalusia and the destinations mentioned above are all well connected by trains, except Nerja. A lot of the lines have high-speed trains meaning you can be at your next destination in no time.
I recommend booking tickets in advance on the Trainline app. I booked a train from Madrid to Seville around 4 months in advance and it saved me about £30.
By Bus
Taking buses around Andalusia is a more budget-friendly option, however, it may take a little longer than previous options.
Alsa buses cover all of the destinations mentioned above in this post and their buses were pretty luxurious, with comfy seats, USB charging stations and some even had a TV.
With many more destinations in Andalusia we didn’t visit a return to this gorgeous part of Spain is very much on the cards. What is a good adventure if you don’t leave wanting to go back?
Have you visited Andalusia before, or maybe you have another favourite destination in Spain? Let us know in the comments.
