driving tours andalucia spain

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.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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.

[convertkit form=3127238]

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• South America
• United States
• TRAVEL GEAR
• Privacy Policy

• PHILIPPINES
• NETHERLANDS
• UNITED STATES
• OFF THE BEATEN PATH
• Responsible travel
• Animal tourism
• Eco friendly products
• Interview series

ITINERARIES , SPAIN

An epic southern spain road trip itinerary: 10-day andalucia road trip.

Packed with culture, music, breathtaking nature, architecture, and a sunny coastline, Andalucia is the perfect setting for a road trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

10 Day Southern Spain road trip itinerary

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

Day 1 Malaga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME….

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

Day 2 Nerja – Salobreña – Granada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 Granada

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

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

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

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

Day 4 Granada and Alhambra

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOP-RATED ALHAMBRA GUIDED TOURS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 Seville

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

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

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

After lunch, head to the Metropool Parasol on Plaza de la Encarnacion, the newest and most hated attraction by the locals. The modern structure resembles a mushroom, thereof the nickname “Las Setas” meaning the mushrooms.

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

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

TOP-RATED TOURS OF SEVILLE:

• Seville: Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar Entry With Guided Tour
• Seville: Alcazar Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Tickets
• Seville: Highlights Bike Tour with Local Guide
• Seville: 3.5-Hour Spanish Cooking Class & Triana Market Tour

FOR ACTIVE TRAVELERS:

Day 7 Seville

Start the day with a good breakfast before walking to Plaza de España, my absolute favorite place in Seville. The stunning building is not that old but beautifully decorated with tiled benches outside, each of them marked with one of the 50 Spanish provinces.

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

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

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

• Head to Italica to explore the incredible Roman remains
• Explore Doñana National Park on a guided trip
• View Seville from above on a hot air balloon experiende
• See all my favorite day trips from Seville

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

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

Where to stay in Jerez de la Frontera: Hotel YIT Casa Grande Budget options: Hostal Sanvi or Hotel Carlos V Jerez

Day 8 Jerez de la Frontera

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

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

Since Jerez de la Frontera is so small, it’s also perfectly walkable and you’ll have no problems finding the cathedral – which is one of the most beautiful in Andalucia – and the Alcazar. If you happen to be there on a Sunday, you can stroll around the flea market in Alameda Vieja, right next to the Alcazar, where you can find some pretty cool stuff.

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

• Take a day trip to El Puerto de Santa Maria (or stay there a night before heading to Cadiz
• Take a day trip to the dramatic whitewashed village of Arcos de la Frontera

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

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

Where to stay in Cadiz: Hotel Monte Puertatierra Budget options: South Hostel Cádiz or Hospederia Marqués

Day 9 Cadiz

Cadiz is one of the most beautiful cities in Andalucia with its impressive cathedral being the most prominent landmark. While you visit the cathedral and climb the clock tower, you’re not far from the Roman Theater. But there are plenty of things to do in Cadiz .

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

There, you’ll also find a couple of the popular beaches in Cadiz city, but they’re far from the nicest you’ll find! If you have extra time, I highly recommend that you explore the most beautiful beaches in Cadiz , as they are some of the most stunning in the country.

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

• Explore some of the best beaches in Andalucia
• Visit the quaint coastal town Conil de la Frontera
• For the free-spirited: Los Caños de Meca is a must
• Spend a day in Bolonia beach and sand dunes + see the Roman ruins of Baleo Claudia
• Learn how to kitesurf in Tarifa
• Go whale watching in the Strait of Gibraltar
• Or maybe even head over to Gibraltar

Day 10 Ronda – Setenil de las Bodegas – Malaga

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Visit Zahara de la Sierra for the best views
• Head to Cueva del Gato for a fresh water swim
• Visit the white village of Cortes de la Frontera
• Visit the Roman baths of Hedihonda and Casares village
• Visit the blue Smurf Village of Júzcar
• Hike Chorreras de Balastar from Faraján for mesmerizing waterfalls
• Visit the whitewashed town of Gaucín

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

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

How to get to southern Spain

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

This southern Spain road trip starts and ends in Málaga which is the airport with most international flights and normally cheaper flight deals than the other airports in Andalucia. but you can easily fly into Seville or Jerez de la Frontera and move around on the days if that works better for you.

Book your flights to Málaga here

Rent a car for your south Spain road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you are curious about traveling by van, I have a dedicated article about campervanning in Spain .

RENT A CAR HERE

Driving in southern Spain

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

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

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

Make it a responsible Spain road trip

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

Avoid animal tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Respect the local communities

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

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

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

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

Reflections on a 10-day Andalusia road trip

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

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

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

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Email address:

Andalusia Road Trip: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Andalusia: one of the most heart-stoppingly beautiful regions in all of Spain . There’s nothing better than driving along the meandering mountain roads between hilltop castles and stopping at beautiful white villages for mouthwatering tapas along the way. The landscapes are iconic; sweeping olive groves cross the open valleys, dotted with orange trees that overlook white sandy beaches in the distance. From charming pueblos to historic cities, discover the best places with this ultimate 2-week Andalusia road trip!

Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary

Andalusia is one of the greatest places to road trip. The drives are beautiful, crossing a diverse range of landscapes—between canyons, under viaducts, and on coastal roads. Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to see all the charming white villages of Andalusia that sit among the hilltops, as well as the most famous cities and beaches in Spain.

Whether it’s action or relaxation, there’s something for every type of traveler on this 2-week road trip itinerary (best done by car for ultimate freedom). 

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Day 1 – 2: Seville

On day 1 of your Andalusia road trip, begin in one of the most stunning cities in Spain: Seville. This city is famous for the Alcazar, an incredible Moorish palace with the most intricate details and beautiful gardens.

This is your first glimpse of the Moorish history in Spain, an Islamic reign that lasted hundreds of years from the 8th until the 15th century before the country was reconquered by the Christians. This part of history lives on in the architecture seen all around Spanish cities, particularly in the southern region of Andalusia. 

Here are all your hotel options in Seville.

You’ll also notice this architecture at Seville Cathedral, which still looks more like a mosque than a church. It’s also possible to climb the bell tower (minaret) for the most beautiful panoramic views over the city. 

Read: 14 Best Things to do in Seville

Aside from learning about the rich history of Seville, it’s a beautiful city to wander and explore. Everywhere you go, you’ll smell the strong scent of Sevillan oranges among the trees, hear the sound of flamenco dancing, and see the traditional Andalusian courtyards with their gorgeous tilework and fountains.  

Tip: Seville is well-connected to other major cities in Spain, like Barcelona or Madrid , so you can arrive in the city by train if traveling from an international airport.

Where to Stay in Seville

If you’re visiting in the summer, we recommend booking a hotel with a rooftop pool and aircon to escape the heat in the afternoons when temperatures can reach upwards of 40°C (104°F). The more modern hotels with these amenities are just outside of the center.

Hotels in Seville 😴

If a pool isn’t essential for you, look for a traditional boutique hotel in the historic center of Seville, which normally have the traditional inner courtyards and Moorish architectural details.

Day 3: Cordoba  

Wonderful Cordoba: the city of flowers! This city might be small, but it’s perfect as a stopover on your Andalusia road trip. One day is the ideal amount of time to wander the beautiful streets, admiring the many patios (courtyards) filled with vibrant-colored flowers and blue ceramic pots.

Here are all your hotel options in Cordoba.

If you’re visiting in May, watch the city come alive during the Festival de los Patios, a competition for the best florally-decorated courtyard in the city! In fact, this festival is so important that it’s been classified as an ‘intangible heritage’ by UNESCO .

Read: Best Things to do in Cordoba (The City of Flowers)

There are many beautiful buildings to see in Cordoba , but the most famous is the Mezquita (the cathedral of Cordoba). This is one of the most incredible cathedrals we’ve ever seen! What was once a mosque during Moorish times is now a cathedral.

However, barely any changes have been made, and it’s home to some of the most magnificent Islamic architecture you’ll find in Spain. The interior is fantastic, with perfect archways decorated in red and white candy-cane stripes. 

Where to Stay in Cordoba 

Cordoba is home to lots of beautiful boutique hotels, which can be found in the historic center. Make sure to book well in advance if you’re planning on traveling to the city during May, as the festival means that accommodation gets booked up fast and is far more expensive than usual.

Hotels in Cordoba 😴

Another good time to visit is April, when the patios will nearly be ready for the fiesta, but it won’t be as busy.

Day 4 + 5: Granada (Must-do on your Andalusia Road Trip)

Arrive on day 4 in Granada, the most magical city in Spain. Not many cities can boast this kind of scenery; the ancient city is surrounded by snow-topped mountains and has a beautiful river that trickles down into the town.

In the background, sitting on top of the cliffside, and shadowed by the mountains, is the majestic Alhambra Palace (one of the most famous sites in all of Spain).

Here are all your hotel options in Granada.

This colossal fortress complex was once the home of the ruler of the Nasrid dynasty (during the Moorish period in Spain ), and every detail is spectacular. You need a half-day alone just to walk among its opulent buildings and gardens filled with roses and orange trees. 

After your time sightseeing, get lost in the maze-like streets of the old town, paddle in the river off the hillside Albaicin neighborhood, or eat free tapas (in Granada, you get a free plate of tapas with every drink you purchase). 

Read: Ultimate Granada Travel Guide

Where to Stay in Granada

Stay in the historical center close to the cathedral to easily access the city’s shops, restaurants, and most ancient buildings.

Hotels in Granada 😴

Albaicin is also a lovely neighborhood to stay in, particularly as it has excellent views of the city below and across the river to Alhambra. 

Potential Day Trips from Granada: Iznajar + Montefrio

Iznajar and Montefrio are two of the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia and must-sees on your Andalusia road trip itinerary! Both lie close to Granada and can be visited as half-day trips. We recommend Iznajar as a top priority and Montefrio at sunset if you have time.

Iznajar has one of the most picturesque locations, sitting high up on a hilltop overlooking an open valley and lake below. It’s most famous for its beautiful streets and patios, which are decorated with hundreds of flowerpots and brightly colored geraniums.

This tiny village is mainly home to elderly local people, so the pace of life is slow (it’s the perfect place to wander for a few hours and soak up the atmosphere of Spanish life!). Best of all, Iznajar is just over 1-hour drive from Granada, so it is the ideal half-day trip from the city.

Click here to read all about the things to do in Iznajar .

Montefrio is a hilltop town home to the ruins of an ancient Moorish castle. The views from here are unparalleled, so much so that National Geographic voted Montefrio as one of the top 10 views in the world! Visit the fortress to reach the highest point of the village, followed by a walk to the National Geographic viewpoint, where you can see a direct view of Montefrio sprawled across the hillside. It’s truly one of the most beautiful villages in Spain and the perfect place to visit at sunset.

We stayed in this lovely hotel looking onto the castle .

Day 6 + 7: Frigiliana + Nerja

It’s time to head for the beach! This strip of coastline is named ‘Costa del Sol’, meaning sunshine coast, and it lives up to its name. This area has many beautiful resorts and villages, but Frigiliana and Nerja are some of the loveliest.

Nerja sits on a clifftop overlooking the sea, with fantastic views of the coves and coastline below. It’s the perfect place to stay for the night, with many lovely hotels, restaurants, and shops. 

Here are all your hotel options in Nerja.

From Nerja, you can drive to Frigiliana in under 15 minutes. This beautiful whitewashed mountain town is one of the most photogenic spots on your Andalusia 2-week road trip. Cobbled streets worm uphill, bordered by white houses with painted doorways and flower pots.

You could spend a few hours just getting lost in the streets, taking photos of each beautiful entranceway, and shopping in all the cute ceramic shops. We recommend booking dinner here one evening as many restaurants have terraces where you can sit and enjoy fantastic views of the valley below. 

Here are all your hotel options in Frigiliana.

Where to Stay

There are more accommodation options in Nerja, and you can easily access the beaches if you’d like to swim or sunbathe. If you want to stay in a villa, Frigiliana has many pool options, but you’ll need to book ahead as it’s very popular. 

Hotels in Nerja 😴

Hotels in Frigiliana 😴

Day 8 – 9: Malaga (Half-Way on Your Andalusia Road Trip)

Welcome to dynamic Malaga, a beachside city with a picture-perfect old town. You can find almost everything in Malaga , whether it’s castles, museums, galleries (Malaga was the birthplace of Picasso), or street art. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants and cafes in Andalusia! 

Here are all your hotel options in Malaga.

Exploring the sights of the old town is a must-do on your 2-week Andalusia road trip, for example, the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro, which are both historical monuments with beautiful views of the city. If you have time, we also recommend taking a half-day trip to the Caminito del Rey , one of Spain’s most thrilling hikes.

Read: Best Things To Do in Malaga

Where to Stay in Malaga

Stay in the old town to be near some of Malaga’s most historic and beautiful buildings.

Hotels in Malaga 😴

Alternatively, if you want more of a beach break, there are plenty of great hotels next to the sea, which are still within walking distance of the city center. 

Day 10 – 11: Ronda

Beautiful Ronda is a place famous throughout Spain for its iconic bridge that hangs over the canyon. The town itself almost looks as if it is balancing precariously on top of the gorge, providing some of the most incredible views out over the Andalusian landscapes.

There are several viewpoints to see the bridge (Puente Neuvo) at its finest: either from below, the lovely Jardines de Cuenca, or the Mirador de Aldehuela. Grab your camera and take some incredible photos from these locations. 

Here are all your hotel options in Ronda.

In the late afternoon/evening, take some time to explore the town of Ronda, whether it’s the main street with its boutique shops or the pretty churches and ancient Arab baths. Ronda is magical and will steal your heart! 

Read: 11 Best Things to do in Ronda, Spain

Where to Stay in Ronda

The main draw to Ronda is the incredible views from the top of the Tajo Gorge. For this reason, many hotels sit on top of the gorge looking out over the valley, so you’ll be spoilt for choice regarding accommodation. 

Hotels in Ronda 😴

Day 12: Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas is one of the most unusual white villages of Andalusia and is a fascinating stop on your Andalusia road trip. This pretty town has houses wedged between and under the gorge rock, looking as if they’re almost growing out of the stone itself.

Here are all your hotel options in Setenil.

It’s a popular visit for those who want to visit Calle Cuevas del Sol, a street filled with cave bars and restaurants—one of the most unique experiences on your Spain trip! 

Read: Setenil de las Bodegas (The Cave Village of Spain)

Tip: Combine Setenil with Olvera (another white village) for one of the most beautiful drives along meandering roads and through sweeping valleys of olive groves and fields of sunflowers. 

Where to Stay in Setenil

Setenil is small, but there are some great accommodation options, particularly the cave houses, which have been turned into apartments or hotels.

Hotels in Setenil 😴

Alternatively, stay in any of the white villages of Andalusia and visit Setenil de las Bodegas on a day trip.

Day 13: Villaluenga del Rosario or Zahara de la Sierra

Villaluenga del Rosario and Zahara de la Sierra are another 2 of the white villages of Andalusia . This is a group of 19 whitewashed pueblos (small towns) in the region that are known for their charm and beauty. 

Villaluenga del Rosario

Villaluenga del Rosario, meaning ‘town of the rosary,’ is unusual in that it hugs the side of the mountain and doesn’t have any hilltop viewpoints, unlike some of the other white villages in the area. However, it’s actually the highest, sitting at 900 meters above sea level! Many great hiking trails lead up into the mountains from here, and there are some beautiful, ancient sites within the town itself, from the old bull ring to the cemetery (one of the most picturesque we’ve ever seen).

Here are all your hotel options in Villaluenga del Rosario.

Zahara de la Sierra

If you have some time, drive to Zahara de la Sierra for some of the most spectacular views you’ll find on your Andalusia road trip itinerary. Discover one of the most important fortresses in the area that sits high up on the mountaintop, providing incredible views over the bright blue lake below. If you want, you can also take a boat trip across the lake to see the town from a different angle.

Here are all your hotel options in Zahara de la Sierra.

Stay in a rustic bed and breakfast or hotel in the countryside to enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature. There are also a few accommodation options within the towns themselves but book ahead to avoid disappointment. 

Hotels in Villaluenga del Rosario 😴

Hotels in Zahara de la Sierra 😴

Day 14 + 15: Cadiz

Cadiz has really different energy compared to many other places in Spain. Not only is it one of the oldest cities in all of Europe , but its southernmost nature makes it feel very raw, wild, and rugged.

The coastline has long sandy beaches, with plenty of wind for watersports, backed by the city’s ancient maze of streets and beautiful historic buildings. It’s also a port town, so you’ll see plenty of fishing boats bobbing on the water, giving it a village atmosphere even though it’s a reasonably sized city.

Here are all your hotel options in Cadiz.

As it’s so far away from many of the bigger cities in Spain, like Barcelona or Madrid , it still has a very traditional Spanish feel (most restaurants only serve the traditional tapas menu and drinks). Two days is a great amount of time to explore the old city, climb the cathedral tower (incredible views), enjoy the nearby beaches, and shop in the local food markets. 

Where to Stay in Cadiz

Stay in the historical center closest to the oldest sites in the city and enjoy the evening atmosphere when everyone congregates at the little bars among the narrow streets.

Hotels in Cadiz 😴

Day 16: Seville (End of your Andalusia Road Trip)

Day 16 is the final day of your Andalusia road trip itinerary, and what a trip it’s been! From charming white villages nestled among the hilltops to beautiful coastal towns and Moorish cities, you’ve seen some of the most beautiful places in Spain . Drive back to Seville (1 hour 20 minutes) to drop your hire car and head home. You might even have time to squeeze in one last Spanish meal before your train or flight!

Tip: Seville has an airport with flights leaving to major cities in Spain, as well as France and beyond. If you’re looking to travel further afield, take a train from Seville back to major cities like Barcelona , Madrid , or Malaga, where you’ll find international airports with more flights.

How to visit Andalusia in 2 weeks

Andalusia is a massive region in southern Spain, with countless beautiful villages, hikes, and cities to explore. You could easily spend a month or more slowly working your way around the region. However, 2 weeks is the ideal amount of time to see the majority of Andalusia’s highlights. This Andalusia road trip itinerary (2 weeks) is designed to be done by car, although it is possible to use public transport (with a bit more planning). 

Getting to Andalusia

There are a few airports in Andalusia. However, Malaga is the biggest, with flights arriving from all over Europe as well as internal flights from other bigger cities in Spain.

If you’re flying into Barcelona or Madrid, consider taking the train to Andalusia. There are many high-speed, direct options that will get you to Malaga, Granada , or Seville in a matter of hours.

Getting Around Andalusia on your 2-week Road Trip

The best way to experience Andalusia is by car. The region is vast and very remote, meaning you’ll have greater freedom to reach the small villages and rural nature if you can drive. 

It is possible to travel by bus in Andalusia, but not all the destinations on this itinerary have public transport connections. You might have to make changes or take taxis to reach the more remote parts of Andalusia.

Buses move between the major cities and towns in Andalusia and are usually very cheap and comfortable. Make sure to do your research in advance as to whether you need to pre-book or can pay by cash on arrival. 

Trains link major cities in Andalusia, as well as some towns. For example, Seville , Malaga, Granada , and Cordoba. However, you won’t be able to reach any of the white villages by train. 

Our Favorite Accommodation in Andalusia

There are many beautiful accommodation options in Andalusia, whether it’s a charming old town hotel tucked down a narrow street in Seville , a cave apartment in Setenil , or a bed and breakfast overlooking the Alhambra in Granada . Below are some of our favorites for a 2-week itinerary in Andalusia.

• Seville: Hotel Gravina 51 , Lukanda Hospec , Hotel Dona Maria , Oboe Sevilla Catedral
• Cordoba: H10 Palacio Cordoba , Hotel Boutique Suite Generis , La Ermita Suites , Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero
• Granada: Casa de la Catedral , Casa Bombo , BiBo Real Chancilleria , Häxaris Casa Boutique
• Nerja: Apartamentos NUEVA 22 , Casa Eva
• Frigiliana: Bed and Breakfast Villa Corte Azul , Casa Calle Real 87
• Malaga: Be Mate Hotel , Vincci Larios Diez , iloftmalaga , ICON Malabar
• Ronda: Apartamentos Circulo De Artistas , Salvatierra Guest House , La Escondida , Romántica Lofts
• Setenil: Casa Cueva un Rincon , Apartamentos Cantareria Jazmin , Casa Rural El Tajo , Casa Cueva Las Calcetas
• Villaluenga del Rosario: Casa de los Cuadros , Conjunto Rural Casa Victoria
• Zahara de la Sierra: Cuesta la Ermita , Alojamiento Rural El Pinsapo
• Cadiz: Boutique Hotel Casa Cánovas , Candelaria10 , El Armador Casa Palacio , La Casa del Consul

How Much Do 2-Weeks in Andalusia Cost?

Andalusia is one of the cheapest regions in Spain. Eating out is very reasonable, and in some cities, tapas is even free! What’s more, book ahead, and you can find beautiful hotels for a fraction of the price you’d find in bigger cities like Madrid or Valencia .

Expenses for a 2-Week Andalusia Road Trip

A 2-week road trip in Andalusia will cost you anything between 2000-3000 USD. This includes accommodation for every night of your stay, food, entrance fees, the price of your rental car, and fuel. 

Costs of Traveling in Andalusia

Travel on a budget in Andalusia, from $180 − $380 USD weekly per person, mid-range $460 − $1590 USD, and high-end from $1590 − $2480 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $35 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $5 − $15 USD
• Activities: $2 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Andalusia

The most popular time to visit Andalusia is during the summer when you can make the most of the beautiful beaches and warm Mediterranean Sea. However, be aware that the summer months are very busy and can be more expensive (particularly in August when the Spanish take their holidays). These are also the hottest months when temperatures in places like Cadiz and Seville can exceed 40°C (104°F). Because of this, it’s not the best time for city sightseeing. 

Instead, we recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn. You’ll still get warm temperatures and beautiful sunny days, but it’ll be much more comfortable for sightseeing and road-tripping. Temperatures can be in the high 20s as late as the end of October! 

Travel Insurance for your Andalusia Road Trip

It’s always a good idea to purchase single-trip travel insurance, even if you’re only traveling for 2 weeks in Andalusia. This covers the potential for any accidents or loss, for example, theft of baggage, canceled flights, or a road accident.

We use Heymondo for all our trips, as they have very responsive customer service and a 24-hour online chat where you can speak with medical professionals.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Spain trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Things to Know About Andalusia

There are a few things you can learn about Andalusia that will make your trip run a little more smoothly:

• Tap water is safe to drink in Andalusia. It is quite chlorinated, which can make it taste a little different from what you’re used to. However, drinking is safe, so bring your reusable water bottle and travel plastic-free ! 
• Siesta time. During the summer, all shops and restaurants close for siesta (typically somewhere between 4 PM – 8 PM). On Sundays, most conveniences are also shut.
• Public holidays. Spain is a country with some of the highest number of public holidays in the world! This means there is always a fiesta somewhere, so make sure to check ahead for shop, restaurant, and road closures.
• Hot summer temperatures . In August, temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). Make sure to plan your sightseeing in the early mornings or evenings to avoid being in the sun (the hottest time of day is usually around 4 PM). Make sure to wear a hat and sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
• Always carry cash , especially in small villages where sometimes card is not accepted.
• Bring extra layers if you’re traveling in the mountains, as it can get cooler in the evenings. 

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Andalusia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Granada, Spain: Best Things To Do (Travel Guide)

10 best things to do in palma de mallorca, iznajar: southern spain’s hidden gem (best things to do).

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hello, Do you feel like this would be a safe trip to do a solo female? (A solo female who does not speak Spanish at that.) Thanks!

Hi Meghan! Spain in general is a safe country to travel to, with low crime rates. As long as you’re aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas (pick pocketing does happen) traveling should be a breeze. Though we recommend learning some Spanish words, people in Andalusia are very welcoming and kind, and see a lot of other travelers. You can always download Spanish offline on Google Translate for those moments English (and hand gestures) don’t seem to work. Though we don’t think many of those moments will occur :) The region also has good public transport that’s easy to navigate, making getting around very straightforward, even if you’re not familiar with Spanish. Hope that helps a bit!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

South of Spain Road Trip Guide

Andalucia epitomizes southern Spain; vibrant, colorful, and passionate . This ultimate Andalucia road trip itinerary will take you to the major cities and best places to visit, bringing this gorgeous part of Spain alive.

Andalucia is Spain’s most southerly region, heavy with Moorish influence, which is evident in the wonderful food and architecture, beautiful and romantic cities, the passion of flamenco, and its iconic Pueblo Blancos   set amidst stunning landscapes that you won’t want to leave.

We have spent years visiting and traveling in Andalucia, and in this road trip planner, we share travel tips, the best route between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, side trips, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect road trip through Andalucia.

Is this your first time visiting Spain? Get all the information you need in our Spain Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Where is Andalucia?

Sometimes called Andalusia (the Anglicised name), Andalucia is the southernmost autonomous community in peninsular Spain. Arguably Spain’s most famous region, Andalucia stretches from the border with Portugal in the west to the border with Murcia in the east, and nearly 300km / 186 miles north into Spain’s mountainous interior.

Andalucia has coasts on both the wild Atlantic, and gentler Mediterranean Sea and enjoys five costas ; Costa del Sol; Costa de la Luz (Huelva and Cadiz); Costa Tropical, and Costa de Almería, and each has its own distinct character.

Getting to Andalucia

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Andalucia in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to road trip southern Spain.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into   Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the perfect place to start your roadtrip in southern Spain. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through  Skyscanner  for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Andalucia? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning an Andalusian road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Spain. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Andalucía Road Trip Map & Itinerary

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Andalucia
• Rough Guide to Andalucia
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Andalucía and the Costa del Sol
• Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary

Malaga – Marbella – Ronda – Cadiz – Jerez de la Frontera – Seville – Carmona – Ecija – Antequera – Cordoba – Granada – Nerja – Malaga

• Distance: 1041km
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 14 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Spain . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

The first stop on this 10-14 day road trip is Malaga. Pick up your rental car or campervan at Malaga Airport and within an hour you’ll be at your hotel or on the road.

Malaga has lots to do  with a lively city centre busy with bars, restaurants, cafes, and people. Don’t be put off by the high-rise buildings and billboards, look beyond and you will find a charming and historic city famous for its warm welcome.

In regal Malaga’s old town, you’ll find La Alcazaba, an ancient fortress dating back to the 700s, as well as the cathedral and several pretty churches. Another must-see is the Mercado de Atarazana , one of the best fresh food markets in Andalucia. Make your way to El Bar de los Pueblos, opposite the market to the left as you face the main entrance, for fantastic and authentic tapas.

Malaga comes to life on the seafront and is a popular place for Malaguenos to go for a stroll after siesta time, which is a fiercely protected custom in the south of Spain. Come to the seafront after 5pm and you’ll find whole families out, enjoying the sunshine and stopping for a beer and tapa along the paseo , even during the Spanish winter .

If you’re feeling energetic after all the eating, then head into the lush hills of the Montes de Malaga to the 10th century Castillo de Gibralfaro , for a great view of the city, port, and coastline. From the Alcazaba, it’s a 30 minute uphill walk – if that’s a bit too energetic, the Malaga hop-on hop-off bus also visits the Castillo .

Malaga is also the perfect base for a day trip to the stunning Caminito del Rey, the once-hidden Gorge of Gaitanes, which is deep in the hinterland. It’s a 50km trip to El Chorro, where the route takes you along suspended walkways through an impossibly narrow gorge – expect fantastic views, fascinating rock formations, and lots of other people!

We highly recommend this Caminito del Rey guided tour from Malaga , where a bus will take you to the start of the hike, and you will learn the real story behind the construction of this great work of engineering from your guide.

If you don’t have much time, here is where you switch up the itinerary and take a Malaga to Seville road trip! From Seville head to Cordoba and then Granada, for a perfect Andalucia itinerary in 7 days.

Our Tip: For real Malaga, head to the Pedregalejo district where you will find freshly caught grilled seafood being served from chiringuitos  on the beach.

• Where to Stay in Malaga

Upmarket: Vincci Selección Posada del Patio – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Molina Lario – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Debambú Atarazanas – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

2. Marbella

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun on one of the three immaculately kept beaches and enjoying the people-watching. The days of big celebrities here are long gone, but there is still a touch of glitz and glamour to enjoy.

Visit the charming old town and head for Plaza de los Naranjos at the center of the casco antiguo and enjoy a coffee whilst watching the world go by, or head to the artisan boutiques and upmarket shops which surround the pretty square.

Or, if you like things organized for you, enjoy this highly-rated guided walk of Marbella’s historic centre where you get to try traditional tapas, local wine, and olive oils as you go.

If you have a few extra days, add to your Costa del Sol road trip by staying on the coast road and enjoying the pretty towns and beaches, until you reach Estepona. From here you can head north and explore Andalucia off the beaten track, through the stunning Natural Park Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja, to reach Ronda.

Our Tip: For lunch, find  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  for freshly homemade tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

• Where to Stay in Marbella

Upmarket: Nobu Hotel Marbella – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Amare Beach Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Ona Alanda Club Marbella – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip or check out our favorite road trips in Europe for inspiration!

The drive from Marbella to Ronda is stunning, one of the best during this road trip in Andalucia. Situated between the natural parks of the Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de las Nieves, Ronda sits in a bowl surrounded by dramatic mountains.

As you head to Ronda, take a detour to the blue village of Júzcar , in the Valle del Genal. The village was a pueblo blanco until 2011 when it was asked to paint itself blue to promote The Smurfs movie!

Ronda is divided by the huge 120m deep river gorge of El Tajo, which is spanned by the stunning arched bridge of Puente Nuevo. The bridge is best seen from the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro , where you’ll find lush and fragrant gardens and a spectacular view. For a more exciting view, tackle the vertical walls of the Tajo del Ronda using the via Ferrata route with a guide !

Bull-fighting is a divisive sport but a passion of the Spanish people, and the Plaza de Toros bullring in Ronda is architecturally spectacular. It’s interesting to learn the history of the corrida, in the well-laid-out and informative museum.

Understanding the love and admiration Spaniards have for the matadors’ courage and showmanship is key to understanding their love of bullfighting. 

From Ronda, you are perfectly situated to take day trips to the iconic Pueblos Blancos or White Towns in the surrounding mountains, where you’ll find some of the best and most beautiful of the small villages. 

Just north of Ronda are two such white villages: Zahara de la Sierra and Setenil de las Bodegas. Both are worth visiting, and the latter is known for its whitewashed houses built into the surrounding cliffs and that famous image, the one with the huge rock covering half the narrow street and its houses.

Our Tip: For a spectacularly scenic drive from Ronda, set your sat nav for Zahara de la Sierra and then pick up the twisting CA-9104 road to the tiny village of Grazalema, which climbs to the Puerto de Las Palomas (Pass of the Pigeons), at 1180m it’s a spectacular drive and worth the fuel to get there!

From Grazalema, pick up the A-372 across the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park to Arcos de la Frontera, and from there the A-382 and E5 to Cadiz.

• Where to Stay in Ronda

Upmarket: Molino Del Santo – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Catalonia Ronda – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Sierra Hidalga – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Spain.

The famous faded splendor of the sea city of  Cadiz  is caused by the effect the sea air has on its architecture, leading to the facades of buildings crumbling and bleaching.

This imbues Cadiz with a sombreness that contradicts the true character of the city. In fact, Cadiz is known for its party vibe, especially during carnival, one of the naughtiest in Spain!

Almost completely surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Cadiz is a fabulous city for simply wandering and soaking up the ambiance. Narrow buildings with painted facades, twisting back streets, pretty flower-filled squares, and a few fabulous churches await you.

Take a guided tour of medieval Cadiz , and see all the city’s landmarks, including the Neoclassical and Baroque cathedral and its museum, the Roman theater in the area known as the Pópulo, and structures dating back as far as the Phoenician era.

End the day by watching a perfect sunset from Playa de la Caleta, situated right in the old town.  

Head out for food and you’ll find it’s all about fish!  Whether you fancy picking your fish and having it cooked for you at Mercado Central de Abastos, or you’re looking for a plate of fabulous  fresh tapas for dinner with a fino sherry  or locally caught seafood, you’ll find it in Cadiz. 

• Where to Stay in Cadiz

Upmarket: Hotel Monte Puertatierra – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Casual con Duende – Booking.com | Agoda

Costa de la Luz Side Trip

If you have extra time, Cadiz is a wonderful halfway base for a few days. Explore more or take a day trip to the aptly named Costa de la Luz, which extends south to Tarifa, the most southern point of mainland Europe, and north to the port city of Huelva.

Off the beaten path to the south are beautiful beaches dotted with chiringuitos serving locally caught fish, pretty white villages like Vejer de la Frontera, quietly unassuming yet packed with history and architectural gems, and the fabulous Cape Trafalgar, the site of the 1805 naval Battle of Trafalgar, in which the British Royal Navy commanded by Admiral Horatio Nelson decisively defeated Napoleon’s combined Spanish and French fleet.

Head north for Christopher Columbus history in La Rábida, where you can see life-sized replicas of the ships he sailed across the Atlantic for the New World (and they are tiny ) and the Monasterio de Santa María de la Rábida, where the explorer stayed as he was preparing for the trip.

RELATED POST: Tarifa Guide: Best Things to Do + Top Visitor Tips

Spain Travel Ideas

One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Cordoba in One Day: Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Driving to Spain from UK: Best Routes & Driving Tips

Tarifa to Tangier: Tips & Tricks for a Day Trip to Morocco

One Day in Seville – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide for 2024

How to Hike the Circo de Soaso via Faja Pelay – Ordesa Valley

Madrid in One Day: The Best Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips

5. jerez de la frontera.

Jerez de la Frontera has been the home of sherry since the 14th century. The particular local soil, climate, and grape variety combine to create this complex and often delicious fortified wine which can only be produced in the so-called ‘sherry triangle’, which holds the Denominacion de Origin of Jerez y Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

The nearby towns of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María are the other points of the triangle, which is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the majestic Guadalquivir River, and the beautiful Cádiz Sierra mountains.

All sherry is made from three green grapes only: Palomino, Moscatel, and Pedro Ximenez. The wine is aged and blended using a system called solera y criadera , a process for aging liquids by fractional blending so that the finished product is a mixture of ages. There are some sherry bodegas with soleras dating back hundreds of years, so with every sip you’re drinking a little bit of history.

You cannot go to Jerez without  visiting a bodega and taking a tour with a tasting session   at the end to understand how this often misunderstood drink is created. Be prepared though – there are seven types of sherry ranging from the very dry Fino to the sticky sweet Pedro Ximenez, my favorite!

As well as sherry, Jerez is also famous for its flamenco tradition. Flamenco literally means ‘hell-raising’ and when you watch this steamy and seductive dance you’ll understand why!

Considered an art form in Spain, you’ll find flamenco clubs aplenty in the narrow streets of the Barrio de Santiago quarter, but it’s probably easier to book a live flamenco show in advance – instead of getting lost in the narrow twisting alleys looking for a bodega , you’ll have the best seats in town!

• Where to Stay in Jerez de la Frontera

Upmarket: Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Villa Jerez – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Suites Alfonso X – Booking.com | Agoda

Are you looking for more Spanish road trips? Get the best itineraries to see northern Spain and the cities of Barcelona, Valencia & Madrid in our guide to the best road trips in Spain .

The Andalus capital of Seville is a gloriously beautiful city and is just as you expect it to be. Hot, passionate, loud, and colorful, this city is unashamedly flamboyant. And it just happens to be our favorite place in Spain.

In the old town, you’ll find three of Seville’s best attractions; Seville Cathedral in all its Gothic splendor, the imposing Giralda Tower, and the stunning Alcazar. It’s highly recommended to visit all three for a real taste of Seville’s fascinating history .  

The UNESCO Seville Cathedral or Santa Maria de la Sede , occupies the original site of the great Aljama mosque, built in the late 12th century. The only remaining parts are the Patio de Naranjas, the Puerta del Perdon, and the Giralda Belltower which was formerly the minaret.

The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, as well as the world’s third largest church, the spectacular Seville Cathedral, is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who set sail for the New World from Huelva, a city and province of Andalucia that abuts Portugal.

Havana, Cuba, and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic all claim to hold the remains of Cristobal Colon, as he is known in Spain but recent DNA tests proved beyond doubt that this tomb is the final resting place of the great explorer, who died in poverty in Valladolid in 1506.

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is a stunning historic royal palace formerly the site of the Islamic-era citadel of the city, was first constructed in the 10th century and then developed into a larger palace complex by the Abbadid and Almohad dynasties. After the Castilian conquest of the city in 1248, the Alcazar was rebuilt and replaced by new richly decorated Mudéjar-style palaces built by Pedro I during the 1360s.

Just south of here in the Parque de María Luisa is the lively Plaza de España which was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929.

With half a mile of tiled fountains and pavilions lushly planted with palms, orange trees, Mediterranean pines, and stylized flower beds, Plaza de Espana is a great place to wander and people-watch, as you take a boat out on the small lake, catch some live flamenco and Spanish guitar, or admire the beautifully tiled alcoves, each representing a different province of Spain.

Right next to the old town, you’ll find the narrow alleys of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the heart of Seville’s lively tapas culture offering some of the best plates in Andalucia. 

Sevillanos eat their tapas standing at the bar with a small beer or sherry but why not take a seat and watch the world go by to make the most of the atmosphere on the streets? Go slowly though, you could easily spend a small fortune on plate after plate of delicious tapas!

In the busy shopping streets of the Centro quarter to the north, you’ll find the contemporary Metropol Parasol, a huge wooden structure that is reported to be the largest in the world. This gorgeous wooden structure is shaped like a fluid parasol and shades much of the square in which it stands.

At the top of the viewing platform, you can admire its form and design whilst enjoying fantastic rooftop views of the Seville city center.

For more travel tips and information check out this  one day in Seville itinerary or book an e-bike tour of Seville with a local guide , it’s a great way to see the city!

Our Tip: There are over 40,000 orange trees lining the streets of Seville, and the frangrance of azahar (orange blossom fills the air in spring. If you visit in winter you’ll see the fruit dropping to the pavements, free for people to pick up. But don’t try eating one, these are sour Seville oranges used to make bitter marmalade and they taste pretty disgusting!

• Where to Stay in Seville

Upmarket: Hotel Casa Del Poeta – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Rey Alfonso X – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Zenit Sevilla – Booking.com | Agoda

From Seville, head towards your next stop of Carmona, nestled in the hills and olive groves between Seville and Cordoba, and one of the oldest towns in Europe.

The main attraction is the Roman ruins a short drive west of Carmona. These ancient ruins comprise of a 1st century amphitheater and Roman burial ground, the Necropolis Romana. The Necropolis was discovered and excavated in the 19th century and holds several tombs and family mausoleums from the 1st Century BCE to 2 CE. There is also a small museum on site.

About 30 minutes after leaving Carmona, stop at the small town of Ecija. This was a Roman city that later became Visigoth and Moorish, before being reconquered by the Castilian king Ferdinand III in 1240, when it became Christian.

Ecija has plenty of monuments of interest such as the Palaces of Benameji, Peñaflor, Valdehermoso, Palma, and Santaella, seven convents dating from the 16th to 18th century, and six churches!

Rich in history and Moorish architecture, Cordoba is an intimate and atmospheric city, most famous for the ancient Mezquita (mosque-cathedral).

La Mezquita is a remarkable building, the result of a mosque built well over a thousand years ago and added to numerous times before being consecrated as a Catholic cathedral in 1248 by the conquistadors who freed Spain from the rule of the Moors in the same year.

The result is an eclectic mix of Moorish and Renaissance architecture that blends to create a cathedral unlike any other in the world and is the one place you must visit in Cordoba.

Take a  Mezquita guided tour with skip-the-line tickets  to fully appreciate the history of this incredible building, and if you can, book a slot to climb the bell tower at sunset, the views are really spectacular.

The gardens of the Alcazar provide contrast and relief from the, at times, overwhelming Mezquita. With sparkling water, tall palms, and cypress trees, this is a perfect spot to stop for an hour or so before taking a stroll across the beautiful Roman Bridge, thought to be built in the 1st or 2nd century, for a fabulous view of the old town. 

Meander through the Jewish quarter where you’ll find narrow lanes and pretty squares. Many of the whitewashed houses are covered in blooms from window boxes filled with colorful trailing geraniums in summer, providing the perfect images of this gorgeous city. 

Our Tip: Don’t go out for dinner until at least 9pm, or you’ll be eating in an empty restaurant with no ambiance at all! Make sure to try a Fitifiti after dinner. A mix of sweet dessert wine like sherry or local montilla mixed with white wine, this is a popular digestif in Cordoba.

• Where to Stay in Cordoba

Upmarket: Las Casas de la Juderia – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Balcón de Córdoba – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: La Boutique Puerta Osario – Booking.com | Agoda

Jaén Side Trip

Well off the beaten path and a 90 minute long drive from Cordoba, Jaén hosts a cultural heritage and diverse architectural legacy that reflects the coexistence over centuries of three major cultures: Christian, Jewish, and Moorish.

Jaén’s historic Jewish quarter is a tapestry of pretty squares, remarkable historical churches built on top of old mosques, palaces, and Arabian baths, scattered with bars and restaurants. The Cathedral is an architectural jewel of the Spanish Renaissance and the Castillo de Santa Catalina , which overlooks the city and can be seen from anywhere, is another architectural gem that offers extraordinary views of the city and the surrounding areas.

Jaén is perhaps best known as the world capital of olive oil. As the largest producer of this precious liquid gold, the city’s traditional cuisine is always prepared with extra virgin olive oil, and Jaén-style Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed in the restaurants, taverns, and tapas bars of the city.

10. Antequera

As you head to Granada, stop in Antequera, deep in the heart of Andalusia, home to over fifty monuments and archaeological sites of extraordinary importance.

The Antequera Dolmens have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of their fine quality and exceptional state of conservation. A fascinating example of megalithic construction, the Menga Dolmen is six thousand years old and is an enormous passage tomb formed by huge slabs of rock that lead to the burial chamber. The Viera Dolmens and El Romeral complete the prehistoric ensemble.

When you visit the Dolmens you can look northeast to the limestone crag of Peña de los Enamorados or Lover’s Rock that resembles a prone fave. Legend has it that two star-crossed lovers ran away together and were chased by Moorish soldiers to the top of the rock, where, rather than renounce their love or be captured, they chose to hurl themselves over the edge holding hands.

Our Tip: Time your visit for 21st June, the summer solstice, when the sun rises over the peak of the Lover’s Rock, and shines directly into the Menga dolmen.

• Where to Stay in Antequera

Upmarket: Convento la Magdalena Hotel, Torcal de Antequera Natural Park – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Parador de Antequera- Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Los Dólmenes – Booking.com | Agoda

11. Granada

In the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is all about the Alhambra Palace, and is one of Spain’s most romantic cities . This spectacular Moorish palace sits high on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside and is the jewel in Andalucia’s crown as well as being one of the most  beautiful places in Spain .

The Alhambra is simply breathtaking in its beauty, with typical Moorish symmetry and beautifully proportioned rooms full of intricate detail and tile work. The Nasrid Palaces of opulent Moorish-style courtyards, reception halls & royal quarters, and the shaded and leafy gardens with running water, secret paths, and beautiful planting to excite the senses, are both must-sees.

Book your Alhambra tickets and guided tour  well in advance (unless you’re  visiting Granada in winter  when everywhere will be a little quieter) as the Alhambra Palace is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of Spain.

Alternatively, get a Granada Card which allows you to book Alhambra tickets in advance and also covers public transport and other important monuments in the city.

One of the best things to do in Granada itself is to visit the medieval Albaicin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the tangle of streets and alleys, enjoying the gift shops and boutiques.

Head for the Plaza de San Miguel Bajo, a charming tree-lined square before climbing uphill beyond the city walls to the church of San Cristobal for a fantastic view of the Alhambra. 

• Where to Stay in Granada

Upmarket: Hospes Palacio de los Patos – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Santa Isabel La Real- Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: BiBo Suites San Agustín – Booking.com | Agoda

If you’re making this a 14 day southern Spain itinerary, then you should have enough time to spend a few days at the beach at the end of your tour of Andalucia.

Make a detour from your Andalucia travel itinerary and take the gorgeous coastal route from Granada to Malaga along the Costa Tropical. Stop at Nerja and Torre del Mar for some of the best beaches in the region and a perfect end to your Andalucia holiday.

Spanish Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Spain.

• Search for affordable flights to Spain with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Spain with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Spain with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Spain with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Andalucia Road Trip FAQs

How many days do you need for andalucia.

A 7 day itinerary for southern Spain will allow you to get a taste of a few of the historical cities and spend a few days at the beach.

For a real flavor of the landscape, history, and yes, food, you need to spend at least 10 days in Andalucia. With a few extra days, you can also see some of Andalucia’s hidden gems and secret spots that fewer people visit, giving you a true taste of authentic Andalucia.

What is the best month to visit Andalucia?

Andalucia is best visited outside of the summer months . In June, July, and August the temperatures are fierce and can be really uncomfortable – not the best time for a southern Spain itinerary!

Andalucia is one of the warmest places in mainland Europe in winter , although it won’t be quite warm enough for sea swimming. Evenings will be cooler and you’ll need to pack layers if you’re planning on visiting in winter. There may be snow in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are both fantastic times to road trip Andalucia. Roads will be quieter, accommodation and flights cheaper, and you’ll still get all the atmosphere and culture of Andalucia, but with fewer people!

Spring , from March onwards, is gorgeous with temperatures warming up and wildflowers appearing everywhere – the perfect time for a Spanish road trip !

If your plan is to hit the beach, May to July is the best time to visit, when you’ll avoid the summer heat and traffic, but still have beautiful warm weather.

Fall , from  September  through to  November  is also a perfect time for an Andalucia roadtrip in Europe’s best winter sun , with the warmth from summer lingering into autumn, but with quieter roads and cities.

Is driving in Andalucia easy?

Car travel in Spain is easy, with a good network of autovias (A) and autopistas (AP). The latter were toll roads until 2020 when many (but not all) became toll-free.

Car rental, fuel, and parking are some of the cheapest in Europe making Spain a really cost-effective place to take a road trip. 

Touring Spain by car in rural and mountainous areas can take longer than you think although the standard of non-motorway roads in rural areas is generally good. Allow time to get off the beaten track and experience the real Spain as you tour this fabulous country.

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle to Spain or you’re in a rental car, follow our driving in Spain tips;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Spain.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• You must carry two warning triangles for the front and rear. These warning triangles are now being phased out and from 1st July 2021, a new law requires that a V16 flashing emergency light is used, although both means of advising other traffic will be legal until the end of 2024.
• You must also carry a reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers) a spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.  
• If you wear glasses you must also carry a spare pair in the vehicle.
• UK cars will need headlight beam converters to be fitted (unless they adjust automatically).
• The use of winter tires in Spain is regional. Look out for traffic signs indicating that winter tires or snow chains are compulsory where you are.
• Anything with a screen (television, video, DVD, etc.) that could distract you when driving should be positioned where you can’t see it. This doesn’t apply to a sat nav but you must not touch or program your sat nav unless parked in a safe place.
• Using radar detection equipment is prohibited under Spanish law and new regulations from January 2021 mean that it will also be illegal to be in possession of such equipment .
• On roads with single carriageways, the speed limit established may not be exceeded by more than 20km/h when overtaking.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out these top posts…

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Love it pin it.

Must See Andalucia 7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

This post contains affiliate links , If you make a purchase through these links I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

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

Top 5 Experiences to Have in Southern Spain

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

Renting a Car in Andalusia

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

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

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

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

When to Visit Southern Spain

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

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

One Week in Spain Itinerary

Day 1: malaga.

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

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

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

If you have more time in Malaga, it is one of the best beach cities in Europe as it is on the sunny Costa de Sol.

Day 2: El Caminito del Rey Hike

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos

Spend the morning exploring Ronda and seeing the town. It was nice to walk to all the viewpoints of the bridge as well as walk down below it to get a view of just how large the bridge is.

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

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

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

Day 4-5: Seville

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Torcal de Antequera

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

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

Day 7: Granada and the Alhambra

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

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

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

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

Day 8: La Rijana

Depending on your flight or train schedule, you may have time for a beach visit today. My flight was from Malaga in the late afternoon so I had time to drive from Granada and stop to see the Mediterranean.

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

Where to Stay in Andalucia

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

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

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

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

What to Eat in Andalucia

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

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

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

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

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

One Week in Andalusia, Spain

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

Like this? Pin it for later!

Similar Posts

Hiking El Torcal de Antequera in Southern Spain

Two Week Slovenia and Croatia Road Trip Itinerary

Hiking in Samaria Gorge, Crete: Under the Cretan Sun

Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley Road Trip Itinerary

Visiting Delphi, Greece: The Ancient Center of the World

Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

25 comments.

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

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

Beautiful photos!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Pingback: El Torcal de Antequera Hiking Trail in Southern Spain - Curious Travel Bug
• Pingback: Seville Itinerary for 2 Perfect Days - Curious Travel Bug
• Pingback: 4 of the Most Gorgeous White Villages In Spain - Curious Travel Bug
• Pingback: Photo Guide to Hiking the Caminito del Rey, Spain - Curious Travel Bug
• Pingback: Spain's Costa Tropical: La Rijana Beach - Curious Travel Bug
• Pingback: Azores Itinerary: 6 Days on Sao Miguel - Curious Travel Bug

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

10 Days in Andalusia Itinerary: the Best of Sunny Southern Spain

Planning a trip to southern Spain? This is the ultimate 10 day road trip itinerary for Andalusia.

This southern Spain itinerary takes you to the best and most beautiful cities and towns in Andalusia . You’ll discover the top must visit attractions, historic landmarks, and magnificent UNESCO sites.

I loved every stop on my last solo trip to sunny Andalusia. Full disclosure, it was February, so beach lounging was out of the question.

Nonetheless, I had an amazing trip, without the usual crowds. And I’m ready to hand over what I thought was a smashing 10 day itinerary for southern Spain.

This Andalusia itinerary is a well-balanced blend of must see hotspots, hidden gems, tiny whitewashed villages, and natural wonders.

When you think of Andalusia, fiestas, siestas, flamenco, bullfighting, and tapas come to mind. And, though they’re stereotypes, there’s some truth to them.

Tips For Driving in Andalusia

I flew into beautiful Seville and worked my way east, flying out of Granada . But you could just as easily reverse the direction and start in Granada. Starting in Seville meant that I didn’t need a car the first few days.

By far the best way to see Andalusia is by car. That way, you’re not limited by bus or train schedules and you can stop wherever you want. A car is the gift of freedom.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

To be safe, you should have an International Driving Permit, just in case you’re pulled over. And rent the smallest car possible.

Medieval streets, parking garages, and on street parking can sometimes be a challenge. Or even a real headache.

The highways in Andalusia are extremely good. Just be sure to park on the outskirts of any small towns you’re visiting, so you’re not stuck in a labyrinthian maze of narrow medieval streets.

Google maps worked well for me. I’m directionally challenged and only got lost a tiny bit in Granada.

Overview of Andalusia Road Trip

I had three bases: Seville (4 nights), Ronda (2 nights), and Granada (4 nights). I really dislike moving every day.

From those bases, I blitzed around seeing adorable white pueblos, dazzling palaces, Game of Thrones sites, and the natural wonders of Andalusia.

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for a self drive road trip from Seville to Granada. You don’t need to pick up your rental car until day 5 when you head to Ronda.

• Day 1 : Seville
• Day 2 : Seville
• Day 3 : Seville
• Day 4 : Train to Cordoba
• Day 5 : Drive To Ronda with Stops at Osuna and Grazalema
• Day 6 : Ronda
• Day 7 : Drive To Granada, stopping in Antequera
• Day 8 : Granada
• Day 9 : Granada
• Day 10 : Day trip to Guadix
• More Time in Spain? Head north to Madrid

I skipped Malaga. It’s hard to do everything with only 10 days in Andalusia.

And it was far less appealing to me — big city, lots of expats, and a cruise ship stop. Though I would have liked to see the Picasso Museum there.

I stayed or stopped in 10 towns: Seville, Cordoba, Osuna, Grazalema, Ronda, Antequera, Granada, Nerja, Frigiliana, and Guadix. I spent the most time in sunny Sevilla, which was sunny even in February.

Where To Stay in Andalusia

You can either stay in Air BnBs or hotels in southern Spain. I’ve done both.

Here are hotel recommendations for the bases on this 10 day itinerary. I put a * by my #1 recommendation.

Seville : * Hotel Alfonso XIII , Hotel Colon Gran Melia ,  Suites Machado , Hotel Casa del Poeta ,   Hotel Casa 1800 Seville ,  EME Catedral Hotel

Ronda : Parador de Ronda , Catalonia Ronda , Hotel Molino del Arco , * Hotel Montelirio

Granada : Eurostars Catedral , Catalonia Granada , * Hospes Palacio de los Patos , Hotel Alhambra Palace

10 Days in Andalusia Itinerary

Let’s dive right in to how to spend 10 days in Andalusia.

Day 1: Seville’s Main Attractions

Use the beautiful city of Sevilla as you base for the first 4 nights.

Seville is amazing. It’s a seductive mix of Mudéjar palaces, ornate baroque churches, colorful tiles, and winding cobblestone lanes. There’s a romance to it. I fell in love immediately.

To be fair, I think there are ways that Seville can be a PITA. I list them here . But on the whole, it was glorious.

On day one, head to the city’s historic center to take in Seville Cathedral, the incredible Royal Alcazar, and the Plaza de España.

You can walk most places in Seville fairly easily. But the hop on hop off bus tour is also a good option.

1. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is a massive Gothic affair. It’s the third largest cathedral in the world and a UNESCO site to boot.

The sheer scale of the building is impressive. There are 15 doors on the cathedral’s four facades and each one features a unique relief or carving. The nave is the longest in the world.

The high altar is elaborately detailed and finished in gold leaf. Along the sides, there are 80 chapels to explore. The cathedral houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Be sure to climb up the Giralda bell tower for spectacular views. The entrance is in a corner of the cathedral. Click here for skip the line tickets and a guided tour of the cathedral and bell tower.

2. Royal Alcazar

Next, head to the Royal Alcazar , one of the top attractions in Seville . It’s a breathtaking 10th century palace that King Pedro gave a 14th century Mudéjar facelift.

The Alcázar is really one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures — a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colors.

The Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a residence of the Spanish Royal family. It’s even a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones . It has exquisite tile work and over the top intricate Islamic architecture.

Inside, the highlights are the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Courtyard of the Dolls, and the Hall of Tapestries in the Gothic Palace.

The Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, is the big showstopper in the palace. It’s mind blowing.

The room is nicknamed the “Half Orange” Room. It sports a fantastical gilded cedar domed ceiling. Encrusted with gold and mirrors, the dome represents the heavens.

Outside, there’s a series of verdant lush gardens. Don’t miss the Baths of Maria De Padilla, King Pedro’s mistress. The baths are one of the Alcazar’s Game of Thrones filming locations , a place where the Sand Snakes plot.

I advise purchasing tickets online well in advance. Even in February, I had a half hour wait in line. If you’d also like a guided tour, which you may for this fantastic place, click here for a 1.5 hour guided tour.

The Alcazar was my very favorite place in all of Andalusia. Here’s my complete guide to the magnificent Royal Alcazar .

3. Plaza de España

Later, spend the early evening checking out the Plaza de España .

The plaza is one of the famous architectural landmarks in Seville. It stands out in a city already overflowing with beautiful architecture.

It was built for the Ibero-American World Fair of 1929, where Spanish speaking countries enjoyed a year long mutual admiration festival.

The park’s highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, the sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings.

Day 2: More of Seville’s Top Attractions

Cross the Puente de Isabel II bridge over the Guadalquivir River, and you’ll land in the colorful Triana neighborhood.

It’s a small soulful village and the old gypsy quarter of Seville.

Triana was once considered the “wrong side” of the river. Now, its the fun and funky part of Seville.

And it is THE place to buy ceramics. And, I was told, the best place to se flamenco.

2. Metropol Parasol

Next, visit Metropol Parasol.

The ultramodern Metropol Parasol was built between 2005-11 by German architect Jürgen Mayer to revitalize the run down Encarnacion Square.

It’s called “the Mushrooms” due to its quirky waffle-like shape, inspired by the vaults of the Seville Cathedral.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket and guided tour.

3. Barrio Santa Cruz

Spend the late afternoon amidst the orange trees and tapas bars in Barrio Santa Cruz. Barrio Santa Cruz was once Seville’s old Jewish quarter.

It’s a popular district within the city — a mass of tangled cobbled streets with tiny palazzos and tile covered patios. There’s a mouth watering array of tapas bars and restaurants.

Some streets are so impossibly narrow, they’re called “kissing lanes.” I especially liked Plaza Dona Elvira.

4. Tapas Tour

In the evening, I recommend going on a Devour Seville “Tapas, Taverns & History” tour that evening. The tour was fun and has 5 star reviews.

You’ll get nummy tapas and nuggets of history.

The Sevillanos adore very sweet drinks, including something called “orange wine.”

Day 3: Round Up of Seville Attractions

1. museum of fine arts.

On your last day in Seville, your first port of call is the Museo de Bellas Artes , or Museum of Fine Arts. It opens at 9:00 am.

It’s one of Spain’s best art museums . The museum is quite lovely and crowd free to boot.

The museum is known, after the Madrid’s Prado Museum , as the “second art gallery in Spain.” It’s housed in a lovely salmon colored former convent.

The museum has art from the middle ages to the 20th century. But it’s mostly known for its collection of 17th century art from Spain’s Golden Age.

The museum has work by Spain’s top painters, including Zurbarán, Murillo, El Greco, and Diego Velazquez. You’ll see a lot of monks, balding saints, cherubs, and depictions of Christ.

The museum also has a goodly collection by the Baroque star Murillo. (You can also Murillo’s works at Seville Cathedral.)

Murillo achieved fame and recognition from his religious portraits. But he also left behind some fascinating work of everyday people and street life.

2. Casas de Pilatos

Then, pay a visit to Casa de Pilatos . The casa is a glorious, sumptuous 16th century mansion in Seville’s historic district.

It’s about a 15 minute walk from the Cathedral. The palace was declared a national monument in 1931.

Casa de Pilatos is a beautiful Neo-Mudejar mansion. The palace is overflowing with mosaics, beautiful tile, and sculptures.

A highlight is the courtyard. it’s surrounded by a gallery formed by white marble columns with Mudejar arches.

Inside, there are 24 busts of Spanish kings, Roman emperors, and other characters gracing niches in the walls, which were collected from the ruins of Italica. Click here for tickets.

3. Basilica of the Macarena

In evening, wander north to see the Basilica de la Macarena and the “weeping virgin” in the north end of Seville. The Macarena is a bit off center.

It’s on the north end of Seville’s city center. But it’s definitely worth a detour.

The basilica is also known as the Church of the Virgin of Hope of Lady Macarena. It’s a showy bright yellow Neo-Baroque Church. It houses Seville’s favorite “weeping virgin,”  La Macarena .

After visiting the church, stroll along the river to the Torre del Oro. It’s a pretty tower, but you don’t need to go inside.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cordoba

On day 4 of my 10 days in Andalusia, take the train to Cordoba for the day. You can also book a day trip tour from Seville, to make things easier.

I loved Cordoba. It’s a natural film set, it’s just so beautiful. Here’s my one day itinerary for Cordoba for reference.

Cordoba has an authentic Spanish vibe with fewer tourists than Seville. The town definitely deserves more than one day. Still, I saw quite a bit in the 9 hours I was there.

Start with Cordoba’s #1 site, the Mezquita , the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. Dating from the 10th century, it’s a UNESCO site and one of the world’s most well- preserved Islamic buildings.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted it into a cathedral, calling it the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption.

I expected the combination to be discordant and perplexing. But I found the place fascinating, a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed.

You walk in from a courtyard of orange trees through the Porta de las Palmas. You’re immediately in a forest of candy cane horseshoe arches. A highlight is the Mihrab, or high altar in a mosque.

The Renaissance cathedral is built right in the center, sharing marble and space with the Islamic arches. The vaulted ceilings are stunning. Be sure to go up the bell tower for spectacular views of the city.

Click here to book a ticket and guided tour of the Mezquita.

But there’s much more to Cordoba than the Mezquita. Just downhill from the Mezquita is the Guadalquivir River. Cross the stunning Roman Bridge, which is both a UNESCO site and Game of Thrones filming location.

Stroll around the narrow streets of the charming old Jewish Quarter. Skip the Instagram popular Calleja de las Flores, or just stroll by.

It’s overrated and crammed with tourists. There are beautiful flowers and patios everywhere in Cordoba.

Go into the Jewish synagogue, say hello to the statue of Maimonides. Visit the beautiful Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. This Alcazar can’t hold a candle to Seville’s Royal Alcazar, but I thought it was still worth a visit.

I had a late lunch in the courtyard of an adorable cafe in the Jewish Quarter, El Rincon de Carmen, which I would definitely recommend.

If you don’t want to walk around Cordoba, you can also take the hop on hop off bus tour .

Day 5: Drive To Ronda with Stops at Osuna and Grazalema

On day 5, pick up your rental car on the way out of Seville and head to the tourist-fly popular town Ronda for “bridge porn.”

On the way, I stop in the charming white pueblo towns of Osuna and Grazalema.

Osuna surprised me. I visited the town for its dashing bullring, which is one of Andalusia’s Game of Thrones filming locations .

But Osuna itself was beyond adorable. It’s a charming white pueblo village with a rich architectural and cultural heritage.

There’s row upon row of white stucco homes and streets dotted with orange trees. Osuna’s a vertitable art gallery, with all its Renaissance and Baroque churches.

UNESCO lists Osuna’s main drag, the Call San Pedro, as the second most beautiful street in Europe . Osuna was declared a Historic-Artistic site in 1967.

2. Grazelema

Next up is Grazalema. It’s a pretty mountain village of Roma origin. It’s completely different than Osuna, more wild.

It lays in the valley of Sierra de Grazalema, splashed with whitewashed homes and surrounded by olive trees.

I was there in February, so there was even a sprinkling of snow. I paused in the main square, the Plaza de España, which is lined with bars and restaurants, for a late lunch.

3. Zahara de la Sierra

Depending on time, you can also visit Zahara de la Sierra, right next door to Grazalema.

Like Grazalema, it’s streets are white, immaculate, and fairly deserted. You can climb to the Tower of Tribute for views.

Day 6: Ronda: Hemingway’s “Romantic Background”

Only 40 minutes from Grazalema, Ronda is vastly more popular. It’s the third most visited town in Andalusia.

And there’s a a reason — it’s dramatic. Ronda is Andalusia’s great cliff hanger. It’s perched on a mountainous gash carved by the Río Guadalevín.

Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo.

The bridge connects the two parts of the town over the 328 feet El Tajo gorge. You can hike to the bottom of the gorge for great views.

Aside from the bridge, Ronda is pretty adorable. There are plenty of cozy town squares, cobblestone alleys, terraces everywhere, and lovely architecture.

You can visit the Mondragón Palace, the Arabic Baths, and the Bullring (Spain’s oldest one) if you’re feeling ambitious.

I made this a lazy, laid back day, after a fairly hectic schedule. I like to have a more relaxed day halfway through a road trip. Ronda fit the bill perfectly.

Day 7: Drive from Ronda to Granada, Stopping in Antequera

On day 7, make your way to Granada . En route, take a break and stop in the white pueblo town of Antequera . Like Osuna, Antequera surprised me.

I came to inspect the UNESCO dolmens. They are a fairly new site just listed in 2016.

But I absolutely fell in love with the town itself. Antequera is known as the “Florence of Andalusia.” And, unlike Ronda, I had the place mostly to myself. Antequera is really a must visit destination in Andalucia.

Antequera boasts ancient UNESCO megaliths , an impressive Moorish fortress, a lovely Renaissance church, and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

Antequera’s ancient megaliths were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. The megaliths, or dolmens, are definitely an under appreciated UNESCO site, perhaps because it’s so new.

The Bronze Age dolmens are among the oldest things on the planet. They’re essentially Spain’s Stonehenge. The dolmens were discovered between 1903-05 by the brothers Antonio and José Viera of Antequera.

If you’re a ruin luster, you should definitely see them. They are just outside the town. Signs will direct you there.

You can book a guided walking tour of Antequera or a tour of the dolmens .

Day 8: Granada: The Alhambra and Barrio Sacramonte

On day 8 of your 10 day southern Spain itienrary, you land in the beautiful city of Granada.

1. Alhambra

Start your day in Granada at one of the most famous landmarks in Spain , the mighty Alhambra. The Alhambra is the world’s last and greatest Moorish fortress.

To visit, you need to pre-purchase tickets well in advance. You may want to pre-book a ticket and guided tour to enrich your visit.

The Alhambra sits on a stunning piece of real estate. It’s in a high, mountainous location on Sabika Hill. it boasts sweeping views over Granada and the surrounding countryside.

In the Moorish tradition, the Alhambra is decorated with water: “standing still, cascading, masking secret conversations, and drip-dropping playfully.”

Alhambra became a UNESCO site in 1984. It’s a deeply affecting place. It’s so beautiful and enchanting, it’s difficult to process. Or to unglue your camera from your face.

The most beautiful spot is the Nasrid Palace. When you buy your Alhambra ticket, you’ll be given a specific time to visit this particular palace.

Make sure you get in line at the right time. Or they won’t let you in.

There are no words to describe the breathtaking Moorish architecture of the Nasrid Palaces.

At every turn there is exquisite craftsmanship and/or a stunning view. The Court of the Lions and the Court of the Myrtles are highlight.

For more information, here’s my comprehensive guide to visiting the Alhambra .

2. Granada’s Historic Old Town

Once you’ve drooled over the Nasrid Palace and relived history in the Alcazaba, it’s time to explore Granada itself.

I didn’t know I would love Granada before I arrived — a common theme of my Andalusia trip apparently. But Granada unexpectedly swept me away with its authentic Spanish vibe and dazzling attractions.

Lorded over by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it’s an absolutely beautiful ancient city. There is scad of historic architecture, including a massive Gothic cathedral.

Granada also boasts many atmospheric neighborhoods, each with an earthy distinct character.

3. Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel

Granada Cathedral is a massive affair. It’s the second largest cathedral in Spain after Seville Cathedral and the fourth largest cathedral in the world.

It was built by Queen Isabella after the conquest of Granada. Construction began in 1518. It took over 180 years to complete.

The cathedral’s a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The chief architect was Alonso Cano, who took over in 1652. Inside, there’s a towering interior, a grand altar, and side chapels.

You’ll also want to visit the Royal Chapel. It’s connected to the cathedral, but has a separate entrance and admission fee. You can book a combined skip the line ticket and tour for both sites.

This is where you’ll find the ornate marble tombs of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The Sacristy Museum also holds treasures, relics, and paintings.

4. Granada’s Sacromonte Neighborhood

That night, I recommend taking a walking tour at sunset to the otherworldly Sacromonte neighborhood.

Sacromonte feels disconnected from the city. Yet, it sports one of the most mesmerizing views of the Alhambra.

For centuries, Sacromonte was the home of gypsies, bohemians, artists, and foreign refuges. And they still live in the rustic caves.

Day 9: Nerja and Frigiliana

Craving some ocean air? Drive south toward the Costa del Sol to visit Nerja and Frigiliana. You can visit both towns on a guided day trip from Granada .

Nerja is a lovely town on the Costa del Sol, the beauty playground of southern Spain. The heart of Nerja is its beautiful Balcony of Europe.

The balcony is a palm-lined promontory. It was built not he foundation of an old fort.

The balcony juts out like a natural pier and offers panoramic views of the cobalt blue sea and honey colored coast.

There are plenty of other amazing things to do in Nerja , including hitting Burriana Beach.

2. Nerja Caves

After visiting the town, head to Nerja Caves for a real adventure. The caves are situated on the slopes of the Sierra Almijara, just outside of Nerja.

The caves are about five kilometers long. They were once inhabited by the Stone Age hunters. The caves weren’t discovered until 1959.

On a tour, you’ll see rock formations, stalagmites, stalactites and subtle shifting colors. A guided visit lasts around 45 minutes.

3. Frigiliana

Just 15 minutes from Nerja by car is Frigiliana . Of all the beautiful towns in Andalusia, it might be the most beautiful of all.

In Frigiliana, everything is beautiful in a way that it almost never is. Frigiliana is a spotless, secluded, perfectly coifed cliff town dressed in blue and white with flowing orange and purple vines and potted blood red geraniums. Just dreamy.

And after visiting numerous moorish fortresses, cathedrals and other “must see” Andalusian sights, I was incredibly relieved that there was no major sites in Frigiliana. I wandered the pretty cobbled streets guilt free, enjoying the views.

I was ready to just sink in the Moorish beauty and Spanish countryside. Oh, and meander into ceramic shops, purchasing some lovely items to bring home.

Day 10: Day Trip to Guadix & Granada’s Albaicín Neighborhood

The next day I took a short half day trip to the unique cathedral town of Guadix.

The town is very off the beaten path destination in Andalucia. It’s only 45 minutes from Granada, so it’s an easy day trip,

I went mostly to see the house caves or “cuevas.” Guadix’s inhabitants live in caves, with whitewashed chimneys set against the mountains.

Guadix also has a charming old town and a 16th century cathedral worth visiting. It’s also famous for its earthenware pottery.

Back in Granada later, spend the late afternoon and evening wandering in the old Arab neighborhood of the Albaicín, or Albayzín.

Built on a steep hill, its an ancient area with tight tangled winding streets and a bohemian feel. It’s probably my favorite area in Granada.

The Albaicín was declared a UNESCO site in 1984. Amidst a jasmine scented breeze, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, tapas bars, and even street performers.

You can  book a guided walking tour  of the neighborhood or take a DIY stroll.

More Time in Spain?

If you have more than 10 days in Spain, head north to see a completely different side of Spain. To the north are Spain’s other great cities, Madrid and Barcelona . You’ll also find secret medieval towns, the Costa Brava, and Green Spain .

If you need some destination inspiration, here’s my guide to six one week itineraries in Spain .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Andalusia itinerary. Here are some of my Spain travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
• Landmarks in Spain
• Hidden Gems in Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary From Barcelona to Bilbao
• 3 Day Itinerary for Barcelona
• 40+ Landmarks in Barcelona
• 2 Day Itinerary for Bilbao
• Most Beautiful Places in Andalusia
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid To Seville
• 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
• Best Museums in Spain

If you’d like to road trip in southern Spain, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “10 Days in Andalusia Itinerary: the Best of Sunny Southern Spain”

Where did you stay?

Air Bnbs in Seville and Granada.

Hi, thanks for all your info. This has been very helpful for our trip.

For Seville it should be mentioned though that you need!!!! to book your tickets to the Alcazar days in advance to avoid disappointment. We got here thinking that a day would be enough only to be proven wrong. We even tried on the day to go there to buy tickets for the day and even though we arrived shortly before it opened, we were already too late. And this wasn’t even peak season. Second disappointment. It’s crazy that you have to book everything in advance it seems and can’t be spontaneous anymore 🙁

Yes, that is for sure! I find that, these days, you have to book skip the line tickets for star attractions well in advance. Tbere is no spontaneity anymore, even in non-peak season. I was just shut out of the opera tour in Vienna in mid-October even though I should know better.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on February 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Andalusia Road Trip – Self-Drive Tour in Spain Coastal Regions

Andalusia road trip (spain coastal regions).

In the first day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will stay in Malaga , capital of the Costa del Sol and one of the cultural hubs of southern Spain , to visit the city and other Andalusia point of interests around it . You will spend 2 nights in this area and can visit Malaga old town , Cathedral and At sunset, we recommend heading towards Gibralfaro Castle and taking in the best panoramic views of the city from its vantage point . Malaga is famous for its gastronomic delights and traditional fried fish and At night, soak up the lively atmosphere that the city offers like Tapas bars, street music, Flamenco shows . If you have a time and don’t prefer to stay in the hotel and relax you can Eat, shop or stroll in style in the stylish new port area . Accommodation would be in selected hotel in sea side and depend to the availability and your preference you can accommodate in the hotel with swimming pool facilities and near the beach or close to city center .

In the third day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will head through Spanish coast of costa de sol to be in the second stage of Andalusia tour by passing coastal towns like Marbella , benalmadena , fuengirola and you be in time you have the possibility to drive in mountain and visit a City named Mijas . You will take road mountain ranges in Spain and go through Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park to reach to Ronda which is one of the most romantic city in south of Spain and have accommodation there. In Ronda there would possibility to visit famous white town ‘Pueblos Blancos’ in spain and Pueblos Blancos like Grazalema, Olivera, Arcos de la Frontera, Zahara de la Sierra and all these would be road trip through Sierra de Grazalema & Sierra de las Nieves . Accommodation would be in selected mountain hotel and you can take a rest in hearth of mountain enjoying the nature and driving to your favorite point of interests.

In the fifth day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will head through Cadiz to be in the third stage of Andalusia tour by passing white village in mountain “Arcos de la Frontera “ to visit the city and other Andalusia point of interests around it . On the way there is possibility to stop at Jerez and visit famous sherry wines and dancing horses . Cadiz as a Western Europe's oldest city and it’s surronding is Doñana National Park one of Europe’s best bird reserves . In Cadiz you can visit old cathedral , new cathedral , castels and enjoy Spectacular white beaches like La Victoria beach . you also have the possibility to visit white villages like Véjer, Medina Sidonia Bolonia . Accommodation would be in selected hotel in sea side and depend to the availability and your preference you can accommodate in the hotel with swimming pool facilities and near the beach or close to city center .

In the seventh day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will head through Seville to be in the fourth stage of Andalusia tour to visit the city and other Andalusia point of interests around it . Seville is the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region and it is famous for flamenco dancing . in Seville you have the possibility to discover places like the Cathedral, Moorish Alcázar Palace & Giralda Tower and taste best Andalusian cuisine and tapas a side of river . In Seville you have also the possibility to visit Plaza de España that contains many of the city’s administrative buildings , Maria Luisa Park which is The largest green space in central Seville , Triana which you can pop into one of the many tile and ceramics shops . Do not forget that two flamenco performances a night , one near the Cathedral and the other one ablao El Arenal . it is worthy to be there and have dinner while enjoying a dance which Seville is famous for . Accommodation would be in selected hotel and depend on the availability we will do our best to select the hotel location near to Seville point of interest .

In the ninth day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will head through Córdoba to be in the fifth stage of Andalusia tour to visit the city and other Andalusia point of interests around it . Cordoba was Spain’s capital during Roman and Moorish times , Many years ago cordoba was capital of Islamic Spain and western Europe's biggest, most cultured city . Córdoba is famous for hosting One of the world's greatest Islamic buildings ,the mesmerizing multiarched Mezquita . In Córdoba you have also the possibility to visit Mezquita which is one of the most beautiful example of Spanish Islamic architecture , Calleja de las Flores with it’s tiny streets , Patio de los Naranjos which it’s 98 orange trees are particularly pretty and fragrant in spring when they’re in bloom , Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos as a royal compound with Gardens, courtyards, baths and the largest library in Western Europe and historic center which is one of the largest old-towns in Europe, and it’s protected by UNESCO .

Accommodation would be in selected hotel and depend on the availability we will do our best to select the hotel location neat to Córdoba point of interest .

In the eleventh day of Andalusia tour and your self-drive Andalusia road trip , you will head through Granada to be in the sixth stage of Andalusia tour to visit the city and other Andalusia point of interests around it . Granada could be consider as highlight of all Andalucía road trips . it’s city and surrounding area has a lot to offer . from historical heritage and streets and monuments to unique landscapes such as the Sierra Nevada and the Costa Tropical . From Cordoba to Granada you are driving in the route of Caliphate which was one of the most used in the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages and used by merchant from all over the known world . in this road you have the possibility of visiting some of the andalucia point of interests like Alcaudete Castle , Zuheros and Medina Azahara . Also after setting down in Granada , if you are fan of the road trip in Spanish mountains , you can Take a trip to the Sierra Nevada which is mainland Spain’s highest mountains range . Accommodation would be in selected hotel and depend on the availability we will do our best to select the hotel location neat to Granada point of interest .

In the last day , based on your departure airport in southern Spain or your schedule you will drop of the car at airport and the you will depart back to your home .

• Major Cities in Spain
• Spain Provinces
• Hottest Place in Spain
• Spanish Town
• France Spain Border
• North West Spain
• Mountain Ranges in Spain
• Airports In Northern Spain
• Driving In Spain Checklist
• Tourist Driving In Spain
• Spanish Driving Laws
• Driving Directions Spain
• Driving in Spain Tips
• Legal Drinking Age In Spain
• Driving Age In Spain
• Car Seat laws Spain
• Crossing Pyrenees 
• Discover Andalusia
• Discover Portugal
• Northern Spain
• Camino De Santiago
• Costa Brava
• Madrid And Heritage Sites
• Galicia Road Trip
• Privacy Policy

Self-drive tour of Andalucia

10 nights self-drive tour in southern spain.

On this self-drive tour of Andalucia, we look past these shining jewels and take you off the beaten path to explore Andalusia’s dramatic landscapes, littered with what we consider to be Andalusia’s true hidden gems: the legendary White Villages of Andalusia .

These stunning ancient whitewashed villages perched upon hills, dot the characteristically rugged Andalusian landscape like snow-capped peaks in a sea of centennial olive groves and lush vineyards. Let yourself be inspired by these pretty villages’ winding cobbled streets tastefully adorned with wrought iron rejas on their windows and plant pots spilling over with colourful flowers.

On this fantastic self-drive trip in Southern Spain, take the time to discover this ancient land, savour its delicious gastronomy and soak in its distinctive and enchanting culture.

Enjoy our self-drive tour of Andalucía!

Length of the Trip

11 Days / 10 Nights

Accommodation

3 stars hotels

Places to Visit

Córdoba | Zuheros | Nerja | Frigiliana | Ronda | Grazalema | Arcos | Vejer

Starting Point

Ending point, type of trip.

Customised self-drive trip

Transportation

Request information, self-drive tour of andalusia places.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

The Ultimate 1-Week Andalucia Road Trip Itinerary And Guide

Ever wonder how to make the most of your South of Spain adventures? Well, then an Andalucia Road Trip could be everything you are looking for.

Just back from our 1st proper trip this year (#AndaluciaRoadTrip), we want to share with you our Andalucia driving itinerary and all we learned as we road-tripped our way across Andalucia main hotspots during 7 days. So here you have it: Our 1 week Andalusia road trip itinerary and guide, along with a few other tips that will help you craft a memorable time in this region.

Ready? Let the fun begin!

1 Week Andalucia Road Trip Itinerary

Whether you have just a week or want to take things slower, this 1 week Andalusia road trip itinerary is a great one to start with as it crosses 4 of the region’s 8 provinces: Malaga, Cadiz, Sevilla, and Granada.

We took Malaga as the starting and ending points as our flights arrived and departed from there but any other Andalucia city served by a decent airport would do for that matter.

That said, Malaga is also a great choice because low-cost airlines like Ryanair – the one we used scoring a couple of return tickets for €32 each – have many flights from lots of European destinations. That would be the case of Jerez and Sevilla too.

Given that this is a round road trip, and you will complete a circle by the end after driving almost 1000km, you could really start at any other stop. Other great starting points would be Malaga, Jerez, Sevilla, and Granada.

Here’s a map of the proposed itinerary :

Go to the Top

Day 1: Arrival to Malaga

You have made it! Welcome to Malaga and, therefore, welcome to Andalucia. One of the warmest – in weather and locals – regions in Spain and one of the most visited ones too (along with Barcelona , Madrid , and the Canary Islands ).

✈  Malaga’s airport  is barely 8km away from central Malaga and the place where this Andalucia road trip itinerary starts.

?After picking up your car, we would suggest you head to Gibralfaro , just a 20 min ride from the airport, where you will be able to enjoy the best views overlooking Malaga city.

?From there, down the mountain to the city center to have a first approach to the Andalusian way of life, take some tapas surrounded by cheerful locals and visit some of the architectural wonders of the city , including the cathedral which definitely is a Malaga must-see .

⚡ If you get just a bit lucky, you could also enjoy some of the celebrations that regularly happen in Malaga.

Take for instance, what happened to me in 2008 when a couple of friends and me arrived right in time for the feria (the city’s main festivity, in August), and our tranquil trip transformed into an endless party. Or, what we saw a couple of weeks back in the main street: a giant dome of lights covering the whole strip . Quite a background for your selfies!

☾ Malaga is a pretty big city and as such, parking is not its greatest point. That, plus your freedom to sleep wherever you want to thanks to your car, would make us recommend you head somewhere else nearby to rest your head. Torremolinos and Benalmadena , although not the prettiest, are literally packed with hotels and apartments which make them a great budget option for those with a car (you!).

We just went for the first one and booked a basic €25 double room in Torremolinos.

Day 2: From Torremolinos to Tarifa

Here’s when things start to get interesting. Your second day on the road, but the first you will be checking spot after spot for as long as the daylight allows you too.

After leaving your hotel, Airbnb or place where you spent the 1st night, skip the autopista – toll highway – and choose the autovía instead. Also fast, you will be able to stop when you want and will avoid any extra toll charges.

? Located on the Costa del Sol – Sun Coast – , 30 km southwest of the provincial capital, Mijas Pueblo was mainly engaged in agriculture and fisheries until the tourist boom in the 50s. Today is one of Andalusia’s main hubs of residential tourism .

⚡ While you are there, explore on foot its narrow cobblestone streets and get amazed to the burro taxis  – donkey taxis -. If you too are extra sensitive with them, there’s a donkey sculpture you can ‘ride’ without hurting a soul (pictured below).

Once you are hungry enough, head to the main square for a quick, filling and cheap lunch (full menu including a starter, main dish, dessert, tap water, and bread basket from €8).

You might have heard about this town’s corruption and impressive construction boom from the late 80s until the great depression the real state industry experienced when the bubble burst in 2007. Well, if we were to find this reality’s epicenter, this would be Marbella.

⚡ Still, the city has a few interesting spots that deserve a quick stop and will give you some nice Andalucia images. One of them, our favorite, would be the pier by Marbella club .

Quick note: We did not have time to jump the border and actually step into this UK’s territory but we did admire its natural beauty from a distance.

? Before reaching the Southernmost tip of Spain, take a detour to ‘ El Higuerón ‘ viewpoint to overlook Gibraltar.

⚡ Bonus points if your visit aligns with sunset time.

? This would be 2nd day’s last stop as this windy town by Gibraltar’s Trait, and facing Africa, is the perfect spot to spend the night. Quiet unless your visit in high season (from Easter to Fall, but mostly Summer), its narrow and labyrinthine alleys designed to cut the wind lashing the coast, and its trendy bars will leave you in love.

⚡ Go for some tapas and beers before crashing. You want to save some energy for tomorrow, yet another awesome day.

☾ The amount of diverse accommodation offered in Tarifa is pretty mind-blowing. From hostels to boutique hotels and pensions, this small town has turned to tourism with all its heart.

Pictured here, myself having breakfast at our very own – and hyper cozy – rooftop terrace at one of Tarifa’s most central hostels, called Correos. Doubles from €30.

Day 3: From Tarifa to Cadiz

⚡ Before leaving Tarifa for good, get some sunbeams while walking one last time its historic center.

VALDEVAQUEROS

? A 5 min drive from Tarifa, its main – and quite long – beach will make you stop as the road passes just a couple hundred meters away from the sea. Once a windsurfing paradise, today Valdevaqueros is the main kitesurfing hub in the country along with some of the Canary Islands and the next stop of this Andalusian road trip.

But whether it is windy or just the calmest day ever, the beach is worth some time to get close and personal with its pale yellow fine sand and unique atmosphere, where vans roam for days or weeks in low season enjoying a quiet life by the sea.

PUNTA PALOMA

? Again a stone’s throw from the previous stop, Punta Paloma is a unique dune area overlooking Tarifa and Valdevaqueros beach that could leave you speechless. As you approach, the road begins to be taken by the sand, in what could seem a beautiful post-apocalyptic scene in the bright Andalusian sun.

⚡ There was a fashion photo shoot taking place when we visited Punta Paloma. Indeed, it is a great place to take some stunning pictures, so get your camera ready!

VEJER DE LA FRONTERA

? Like Mijas, Vejer de la Frontera is a village on the slope of a mountain with a wonderful view of the town itself and its lush surroundings.

To be honest, we stopped at Vejer because lunchtime was approaching and we thought it could be a great place to eat. But truth is that we didn’t find a restaurant for that purpose, instead what we did is discover a picturesque village.

? On your way back to the coastal road, you will find a few local restaurants. Stopping wherever the parking lot is pretty busy (especially filled with trucks) is always a great idea.

Barbate is situated at the mouth of the River Barbate, some 11 kilometers along the coast to the east of Cape Trafalgar, our next stop. Very popular in Summer among Spanish tourists, it has a long history of fishing stretching back to Roman times.

The town does not have the charm of many older settlements but it is well designed and has an attractive central square, called Plaza de la Inmaculada (like me!).

⚡ What we would really suggest you is to drive through it along the coast and reach one of the nearby beaches, where from to admire the upcoming highlight: Trafalgar Cape’s lighthouse! A highlight indeed on this Southern Spain itinerary.

⚡ Roads are windy as the lighthouse comes closer and they are some of the most beautiful we have seen in a long time too, with dense forests in both sides of the road that continue as far as the eye can see.

TRAFALGAR CAPE LIGHTHOUSE

? Historic place as few are because the 1805 naval Battle of Trafalgar, in which the Royal Navy decisively defeated Napoleon’s fleet, took place off the cape.

⚡ It is also one of the nicest places from where to watch sunset between Tarifa and Cadiz.

PUERTO DE SANTA MARIA

? Best known for having been the port from which Columbus sailed on his 2nd trip to the Americas, El Puerto de Santa Maria is a city on the outskirts of Cadiz.

☾ Like we did on the 1st night in Malaga, this one resulted in the perfect spot to spend the night. Easy to reach at night, with plenty of free parking spots available and low rates. We paid €30 for a double room with breakfast included.

Day 4: From Cadiz to Sevilla

? Ever since I visited Cadiz during that aforementioned 2008 trip with a couple of my girlfriends, I was drawn to go back to Cadiz.

Situated on a narrow slice of land surrounded by the sea‚ Cádiz is a typically Andalusian city with a wealth of attractive vistas and well-preserved historical landmarks. It is also the oldest continuously inhabited city in Spain and one of the oldest in western Europe. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss in Cadiz.

⚡ Its Old Town , within the remains of the city walls and mainly surrounded by the sea.

⚡ The cathedral square , its interiors and rooftop views from the bells tower.

⚡  The  Castle of San Sebastián,  a fortress at the end of La Caleta beach on a small island separated from the main city, another gem on this Andalucia trip.

? Now here’s a pretty town on your way North to Sevilla you should definitely check out. We tried to skip it as we were planning to meet some friends for dinner BUT Jerez definitely wanted us to stop and have a look. So fate made us have a flat tire on our way North and our insurance’s technical service took us to Jerez, where our tire was fixed in the blink of an eye. Next time, Jerez, you don’t have to try that hard! We will properly visit you. Promised.

? This city, often seen as Andalucia’s finest , is definitely one of the highlights of this Andalucia Road Trip. And as such, it deserves at least 2 days (in reality, a day and a half) of your time in the region.

Its sights are never-ending, but you will have time to explore them tomorrow. For now, go for tapas and chill as the night comes at any of the city center’s busy squares.

⚡ Sevilla’s  bars and bodegas  (wine houses or cellars), contrary to Granada’s – where tapas often come for free along with your drink – sell their tapas but their menu is usually diverse, extensive and a fair portrayal of Andalusian cuisine.

Day 5: Sevilla

Now before even stepping out of your hotel, be aware today there’s no car supporting you. Sevilla is better seen and experienced on foot and therefore, if you are ok with that, you will likely walk a lot today.

Instead of analyzing every one of the Sevilla highlights we recommend you to visit in an overdone and boring travel guide style, we’ll leave you with our visual memories of those places. It is up to you to choose them or not but be aware they were our 1st choice for a reason.

⚡ PLAZA DE ESPAÑA

⚡ METROPOL PARASOL ( Las Setas de Sevilla )

⚡ THE CATHEDRAL AND ITS GIRALDA TOWER

⚡ ST. CRUZ NEIGHBORHOOD

⚡ SEVILLA’S CITY CENTRE

⚡ AIRE ARAB BATHS

Day 6: From Sevilla to Granada

Slowly approaching the end of the trip, the 6th day of this Andalucia road trip will be a one where you will drive from 3 to 5 hours depending on how many stops you want to take along the way.

?Our first suggestion is that you break the driving time in two the least and, again like we mentioned when we were in Malaga (day 2), take the secondary road and skip the toll highway. Ronda is pretty much in between Sevilla and Granada and makes it for the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, have some lunch at one of its endless restaurants overlooking the valley and continue your journey towards the East.

⚡  Do take the dust off your hiking shoes and venture through the many trails surrounding the town. Many picture perfect spots await.

CAMINITO DEL REY

? Ah, who could make days last 48 hours or, at least, take us out of bed early enough to make it to the 2nd planned stop of the day: the infamous Caminito del Rey (The King’s Path). Once named the most dangerous hiking trail in the world, it is today a recently restored wonderful path that takes visitors across impossible cliffs and exceptional nature sites.

TORDAL DE ANTEQUERA

? Yet another milestone in the way we had to suppress due to our lack of time (we followed this itinerary in Winter when daylight lasts an average of 6 hours less than Summer, hence our frantic and shortened schedules).

Our idea was to get closer to this area of unparalleled beauty and unpredictable shapes to admire the sunset against the rock formations. We’ll have to wait until you tell us how it is!

? And here it is. Finally, we reached our final milestone, the wonderful city of Granada.

With more history than many (in fact it was a Moorish city before the Spanish Christian kings, Ferdinand and Isabella kicked the last Moorish king and his entourage out of it at the end of the 15th century), its strategic location halfway between the mountain peaks of Sierra Nevada (the only ski resort in the south of the Iberian Peninsula) and the coast as well as the fact that it owns one of the three oldest and renowned universities in Spain – therefore it is a young and dynamic city -, Granada could perfectly be  one of the cities I would move to in a heartbeat .

⚡  As fatigue might be kicking in at this point after a long day on the road, we advise you to have dinner and head to your hotel for a good rest. Tomorrow, the last proper day of this Andalucia itinerary will be a great one too and you want to be fresh and ready to make the most out of it!

Day 7: Granada

As we did with Sevilla, Granada is so full of goodness that anything we could say now wouldn’t make it justice. Therefore, once again, let’s leave the images speak for themselves and help you configure your day plan. Make sure you can at least squeeze a visit to the Alhambra and Generalife gardens in your itinerary. They are a complete must and something you shouldn’t leave for a later visit at all. Nonetheless, this monument regularly tops the list of the most visited ones in Spain!

⚡  GENERALIFE GARDENS

⚡  ALHAMBRA PALACES

⚡  GRANADA CITY CENTRE

⚡  ALBAICIN

⚡  SACROMONTE

⚡  SAN MIGUEL ALTO

Day 8: From Granada to Malaga and back home

⚡  All good things come to an end. And day 8 is the last one of this suggested Andalucia road trip. Whether you need to run to the airport as your alarm clock wakes you up or you can enjoy a few more days in sunny Andalusia (continue reading below these lines for more info on how to extend your Andalucia road trip), make everything counts and remember to bring a big smile with you back home, one like the many you’d face any given day here!

Even better.

Do you have 2 weeks to spend in Andalucia?

Here’s what you should add to this Andalucia one week itinerary:

Saying that the aforementioned 1-week Andalucia road trip itinerary (right above these lines) covers everything that the 4 provinces it goes through – Malaga, Cadiz, Sevilla, and Granada – offer, would be a HUGE understatement and definitely if you get two weeks to spend in Andalusia, you could as well follow the previous route slower and stopping in many other towns and epic nature gems along the way; as tbh, 7 days in Andalucia is a short time to explore it fully.

That said, you could also (and we strongly recommend it), extend your Spain road trip itinerary and touch the other 4 Andalucia provinces – Huelva, Cordoba, Jaen, and Almeria – we left behind before.

What to See and Do in Huelva :

• Fall for Doñana National Park’s wildlife
• Learn some history at Muelle de las Carabelas (Cristobal Colon’s boats), in Huelva
• Begin to understand Rocio’s pilgrimage, a big-time religious tradition, in Almonte
• Get amazed by the surreal colors pouring from Riotinto mines

What to See and Do in Cordoba :

• Discover a whole cathedral inside a column filled mosque at the world-famous Mezquita de Cordoba
• Get lost through Cordoba’s patios (courtyards) and  Juderia  (Jewish quarter)
• Stop at Almodovar del Rio’s fairytale castle
• Uncover some ancient Roman sites

What to See and Do in Jaen :

• Walk one or a couple of Cazorla Nature Park hiking trails
• Visit the city of Jaen and its magnificent cathedral
• Get Acquainted with the beautiful cities of Ubeda and Baeza
• Play king or queen at Fortaleza de la Mota, in  Alcala la Real

What to See and Do in Almeria :

• Visit the Desert of Almeria, regularly a backdrop for Hollywood productions.
• Shoot sunset by Gata’s cape, in Nijar Natural Park, an epic spot on the coast.
• Wander across the Monumental Ensemble of La Alcazaba, an architectural jewel.
• Have some fun in Almeria city.

Well, now this is rad.

What to do in Andalucia if you have 1 month ?

1. Rent a van, head to the Northernmost coastal point of the region (…) and take all the time you need – 2 weeks should be fine – to slowly drive along the seaside until you hit Portugal’s Algarve.

2. Make it a memorable and meaningful trip:

• Like water sports? Go kite surfing at some point. We strongly recommend you Tarifa for this! The kitesurfing community (and digital nomads one) is huge and there are a few renowned schools where you can rent your equipment and get a sense of this sport if you have never tried it before.
• Visiting in winter? Buy a 1-week ski pass for Sierra Nevada, the only ski resort in the region but a great one if you ask me. 45′ away from Sierra Nevada, you’ll be able to see the beaches from its tallest point (the highest in the Iberian peninsula).
• Is food your thing? Learn how to prepare the main dishes of Spanish cuisine . With balanced, fresh and local ingredients like olive oil, fish, and veggies you are in a perfect spot to become an expert in no time!
• Habla español? Even when you’ll definitely pick an accent if you learn Spanish in Andalusia, it is a lovely one so go for it!
• Flamenco classes? It can’t go more touristy but if you are really into dance, this one is really something you wouldn’t want to miss as you road trip Andalusia.

3. On your way back, go for the 1 or 2 weeks Andalucia travel itinerary.

4. Fall madly for Andalucia or, alternatively, a local.

5. Never leave.

Are you enjoying this Andalucia Road Trip guide? Pin it for later :

Andalucia Road Trip Tips For a Successful Experience

• Pick the right car.

Not the cheapest or the fanciest but the right one. It could make a huge difference.

We decided to go for Autoclick Malaga  (a step away from the airport, free pick-up service) and rented a Renault Clio that literally spent just €50 on gas for the 1000km trip. How great is that for a Southern Spain road trip? But what we really loved about this company is that, after leaving a €100 refundable deposit, your car is equipped with a tablet and mi-fi device (read, a great navigation system plus wi-fi onboard at all times) that could save your ass a few times and, definitely, save you loads of time when driving across Andalusia.

And while we are at it…

• Drive safely!

Because if you don’t, you will either get a ticket real fast (Andalucia has more radars than any other Spanish region we have been to so far) or, what’s even worse, an accident that could ruin your tour through Andalusia.

Even when you are extremely careful, pay extra attention to every sign and drive slowly, shit can happen. And we say this from our own experience as we had a flat tire on our way from Cadiz to Sevilla. Luckily, we were rescued in no time, picked up by the insurance service for free, driven to Jerez and there the tire was fixed in about 2 minutes. So, after all, we were back on the road in less than one hour! What takes us to:

• Book the best insurance you can.

It might set you a bit more than you expected to spend (especially these days when it is not uncommon to see real good fares – sometimes, even as good as one digit numbers – in car rentals across Spain) but it will save you tons if things go wrong.

• Book your room in advance in big cities like Sevilla and Granada.

Both busy all year round, it is a must if you want to avoid overpriced last-minute hotels.

In the first one, we got really lucky and the hip TOC Hostel   Sevilla invited us to check their top location double suite overlooking Sevilla’s cathedral.

With all the comfort you can expect from a basic hotel and a hostel price tag, it is a great choice for everyone looking forward a great Sevilla experience because as soon as you step out of the main door, you are right where you should be to start exploring the city highlights.

Plus, its tapas bar – where you could be having your a la carte breakfast if you decide to book a suite – is the hippest thing on earth, serving the most delicious freshly baked cakes and coffee.

On the other hand, if you want to spend a few more bucks and go for something really unique, book a room at the heritage Alhambra Palace Hotel in Granada . The best views in town are guaranteed!

• Spend a few more bucks and get a guided tour at the Alhambra.

Seriously, trust us on this one. It is not every day that one gets to wander across these filled with history walls and you really want to absorb everything a knowledgeable guide will tell you.

We took Viator’s Private Tour of Alhambra and Generalife   and it was one of the best decisions of the week as we had our guide, Alberto, picking us up at our hotel and spending 3 hours explaining – at our own pace, not his! – everything we could be interested in as well as pointing us to the best spots for pictures and avoiding all the queues we would have fallen into if it wasn’t for him.

• Say yes to unique experiences like the Arab Baths in Sevilla.

With full access to all the facilities including steam room and hydromassage pools, you can stretch out, scrub down and soak off all of your cares.

Plus, if you book your entry ticket with Tinggly experiences as we did, you will enjoy a Santa Cruz short tour through this charismatic Sevilla neighborhood’s narrow streets with a friendly local guide (we had Diego and he was amazing!) AND a drink in a memorable rooftop terrace – like the one Doña Maria hotel has – from where to admire Sevilla’s cathedral and its Giralda tower, a must on this Andalucia itinerary.

Not only a romantic experience for couples (although it is a great one if that is what you are looking for indeed!), this is also a fantastic way to enjoy a less crowded Sevilla from a unique point you will remember forever.

• Pack your suitcase with both Wintery and Summery items.

It takes less than one hour to go from Sierra Nevada ski resort to the beaches and you want to be ready for both if you road trip South Spain. Plus, the Arab Baths!

• Do not try to go everywhere and do everything.

Andalusia is pretty big if you ask us. You simply won’t be able to see all it has to offer and there is where planning in advance will do wonders for you. Even with that, be ready to skip or change things as you go. For instance, we had to skip both Tordal de Antequera and Caminito del Rey as sunset caught us right after leaving Ronda.

Take these as signs to come back!

• Go crazy on tapas but remember they won’t fill your stomach. 

The only thing you will get if you decide to just eat the free tapas that come with your drink in places like Granada is getting drunk. Before it is too late, just spend a few more bucks on a racion  – a bigger plate of tapas – or dish. You have been warned!

More Road Trip Inspiration and Articles on Spain Travel?

Join us on Instagram as we share our journeys daily:

Road trips, solo travel, packing lists, travel inspiration and much more? Follow our  Pinterest feed:

If you want to check other road trip articles on this site , click here .

Should you have any recommendations for an Andalucia road trip, tips on the best itinerary for Andalucia or  any questions about our Andalusia trip ,  comment below .

And finally, if you have liked this Andalucia road trip guide, please share it with your community. Thanks so much!

There are 65 comments

Thank you. Very Professional Shots. We heading there in Feb…are they safe from crime, to explore exp nite? Fr Spore

Thanks! No place on earth is 100% crime safe, but Andalusia is a VERY safe destination. Use your caution and common sense to explore at night, but you should be perfectly ok. Here are a few safety tips you can read: https://www.aworldtotravel.com/best-resources-for-solo-female-travelers/ Enjoy!

Great guide! I spent a month in Seville studying spanish more than 10 years ago and now am planning on returning with my wife and in-laws for a 2 week road trip, but we’re actually thinking of also including the north of Morocco on the package, as it’s just a short ferry ride from Tarifa. Anyway, good job!

Thank you! Hope you have fun on your upcoming adventure 🙂

I loooove Andalucia!!!! I learned Spanish there and your picutres are so beautiful!!!

hahaha we love it too! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

I loved Alhambra Palace and Grenada. I visited back in May and am hoping to go again next year to see more of the places you listed. Your photos are stunning as well!

Thanks so much, Tracy!

I’m definitely saving this for next year. Planning on road tripping in Europe =) Great post and pics!

What an impressive itinerary! You seem to have had the best time and your photos are just amazing…I’m definitely parking this for later!

Fab post! I’ve only been to Sevilla briefly but it looks like I need to go back. I’m bookmarking your itinerary for future reference. Amazing photos too! Thanks for sharing! x

Thanks so much! Yes, you need to go back 🙂

I’ve never been to Spain, but after looking at all of your beautiful pictures, I cannot wait to book my trip. Thank you for such a comprehensive post!

Thank you for stopping by and enjoy your trip!

What a fantastic guide! So informative 🙂

Glad you like it!

Great article and fantastic photos. I’m flying to Malaga tomorrow and driving down to Tarifa for a week. I’ll definitely do as you suggested and drive the coast road rather that the motorway to Tarifa. I’ll have 2 and a half free days after that before flying back out of Malaga. If you had to pick maybe just one place that you’ve seen, any suggestions on where best to go? Based on your amazing photos I will have to come back again on another trip to explore the area further (and improve my Spanish!)

Hi I was looking at the Autoclick website as we are planning a trip here and did not see good reviews. did you have to put a huge deposit or excess?? very confused. is there any other rental companies that are reputable in your opinion? Thanks

That’s weird. We did not. Why don’t you contact them directly and find out? Thanks for stopping by and hope you have fun!

ok, we’re sold. booking flights now. but first, how would you rate this trip with a 1.5 yr old? and how was the parking experiences, if we were to possibly rent a camper van and forego hotels?

Beautiful photos and informative. Andalusia is an ideal place to do a roadtrip. Last year we did a roadtrip through Andalusia and covered the same places you did, but we din’t go to Gilbaltar.

Do you have any info on a good car rental companies? Love your Photos!

ditched the guide books and read your blog guide instead – very informative! thanks and keep it up!

Great article and very detailed! Me and my girlfriend are leaving tomorrow for Malaga where we are renting a van. Your tips will definitely come in handy. Thank you! Thank you!

Wow, I’m excited about your article and moreover it’s so useful for traveling even if you have been here before as I did. Also, I used this site xxxx to choose suitable car and price.

Wow! This is an incredible itinerary! I’m pinning it for future use! Great job!

Thanks so much. Glad you liked it Joe

Amazingly beautiful photos! We did a road trip through Spain, but not in this region. it’s really such a great way to experience the country. I am bookmarking this for our next journey! We have a kid, so can’t go quite as fast, but this all looks spectacular

Thanks! You guys have a blast!!

What an amazing road trip! The pictures are absolutely mesmerizing! Thanks for the tips!

I’ll save this for the future reference because this kind of trip is definitely on my bucket list!

Sounds great Monika. Hope you have a blast when you visit Andalucia!

I only visited Catalonya when in Spain. I am definitely coming back and this itinerary will be a great resource! Thanks for the effort puttuning it together!

Thanks so much Veronika. Glad it helps!

Malaga and Gibraltar were already on my bucket list but you’ve shown me so many gorgeous places, shame on you. 😉 Photograph is great. Those places are spectacular!

then you know what you have to do.. .:D

Wow, there’s so much great information here! Definitely saving this for a future trip.

Thanks! Glad you found it helpful

First, your photography is fantastic! This looks like a great road trip. Did you ever feel rushed or wish you could stay somewhere longer, or was it well-timed to move around like that? I’ve wanted to explore that area for a long time.

Thanks Laura. And yes, we did feel like staying for longer, specially in Granada and Tarifa areas. There’s just so much to explore in Andalucia! Have a blast when you go and let me know if you are in need of any other tips!

Wow, what a great resource! Thanks for sharing all your insights on this epic road trip. And your pictures are so amazing. I saw in one of them that you are using a Nikon, but couldn’t make out which one. I am looking for a new baby, so would you mind sharing which one you are using?

Thanks! Glad you found it helpful. We use Nikon D750, D700 and D5100. If you are starting out, the last one (I believe they are already in D5300 or so) is your best bet!

Beautiful photos! I really like how you included plenty of car tips. Having just rented a car once in Europe (Belgium) I’m still a bit new to the game and learning about parking tips is hugely helpful.

This is an amazingly indepth post! Thanks for sharing this, this is quite worthy of being a one stop resource for our planned trip to the region and we hope to benefit from quite a few saved hours!

Glad it helps!

Super informative post – driving is always such a great independent way to explore an area and it sounds like Andalucia is quite well suited to it.

Agree! We definitely love road trips. Being able to stop whenever and wherever you want is key!

loved your article we are heading down this way in December and now i dont know where to go after reading this i want to go evereywhere. Amazing pictures loved it shared it everywhere cheers mark

Thanks so much Mark!

I have to agree with Nellie..your photography is outstanding. You have covered a lot, it’s certainly a useful guide for visiting Andalucia.

Thanks so much Inka! Glad you like it

Wow, you covered so much in just 8 days and your beautiful photos show Andalucia at its very best. The weather looked great for your trip, winter is now my favourite time of year in Andalucia (Malaga has been my home for 9 years now), sunny days, quiet beaches and the best time to explore. Thanks for a great guide, i look forward to your other posts. Anna

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it 🙂

Wow great piece on Andalusia! Wish you had told me you were coming, shame I wasn’t in Granada either. Your photos are outstanding – they really made this region look so beautiful. Thanks for reminding me I live in a beautiful part of the world!

Thanks so much Nellie! Coming from you is such a huge compliment 🙂 Next time I will make sure you are there!

The Andalusia’s definitive guide!

Wow, I get exhausted just reading this itenary. You seem to have covered a lot of ground. I am impressed.

Andalucia is a great place, I have lived here for more than six years now and travelled extensively around the area. One week only scratches the surface of what there is to see, but you have done an excellent job covering a great deal of it. Now you should come back and enjoy it a bit more, especially the nature is breathtakingly beautiful.

lol Stefania! We did cover quite a few cool spots, yes! But also keep a fair share of time for beers, tapas, resting and just living! 😀

Amazing. I’m heading to Andalusia soon so this came just at the right time!! Thank you. Thank you.

And beautiful pictures!

Great to hear Cayce! Hope you love it as much as we did and this resource results a useful one for your Andalusia adventures!

Comments are closed.

Self Drive Tour of Southern Spain: Andalucia

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1546  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

• Trip Overview

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Request a Quote

Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Dare to experience the joys of Andalusia, the birthplace of so many famous Spanish traditions: festivals, siestas, bull fights, tapas. After a few days, you will be under the spell of another land that is so far away from everyday reality. The kingdom of the ancient Moors, Andalusia basks in the southern Spanish sun and overflows with unimaginable beauty. From the elegance of Seville to the grandeur of Granada, and the beauty of the Costa del Sol, this magical place will delight and enchant you.

Customizable Itinerary

Seville - welcome to spain arrive in seville.

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel in Seville. Your hotel is situated in the very heart of the old town, where all the important monuments are within walking distance. Full of authentic Andalusian ambience, Seville is the city famous for tapas, Flamenco and siestas. Today you may begin to explore Seville. Discover the charm found amidst its cobblestone streets, elegant palaces and whitewashed houses dripping with vibrant bougainvillea. Visit the must-see monuments including the cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic church. It took almost two centuries to complete the construction of this grand cathedral. Take notice of the cathedral’s tower, La Giralda. This tower is the only surviving architectural feature of the original building that was the grand mosque during the Moorish era. The tower served as the building’s minaret. Then spend some time just soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere. When in Seville, do as the locals do. Enjoy your meals at later hours, take a nap in the afternoon and stay up for the fabulous nightlife.

What's Included:

Cordoba - Travel from Seville to Cordoba

This morning after breakfast at your hotel, you may either continue sightseeing in Seville or head out directly for Córdoba. After a short drive from Seville to Córdoba, you will arrive with plenty of time to begin exploring the city. Surrounded by its medieval walls, Córdoba is a city that lives and breathes history. Once the capital city of Al Andalus, Córdoba was a bustling metropolis during the Middle Ages. During the 10th century, Córdoba was a cultural capital that rivaled Constantinople. In that era, the city also surpassed Paris and Rome in population and cultural achievements. Córdoba was a city of poets and scholars, including the famous Jewish philosopher Maimonides. Córdoba was a place of multicultural diversity where Muslims, Jewish and Christians lived together peacefully under Moorish rule.

After checking into your hotel, you may begin sightseeing in Córdoba. First stop should be the La Mezquita, formerly the city’s great mosque. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, La Mezquita is one of the grandest Islamic buildings of all time. The monument was originally built in the 8th century. You must first enter the Puerta del Perdón grand gates and then walk through the pleasant Patio del los Naranjos (Courtyard of the Orange Trees) before arriving at the grand building. Once you enter, you will be awestruck by the sheer immensity of the space and splendor of the design. With over 1,000 marble pillars supporting row after row of graceful archways, La Mezquita is a triumph of Moorish architecture. The seemingly endless rows of delicate arches and columns symbolize the infinite nature of divinity. La Mezquita represents Islamic Córdoba at its finest. After the Reconquista, a cathedral was supplanted inside the center of the mosque, creating an interesting blend of styles. After visiting the Mezquita, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. You may stroll through the ancient streets of the old Jewish quarter to uncover its enchanting ambience. Later this evening, try a typical Spanish restaurant for dinner.

Granada - Continue to Granada

After breakfast this morning, start out on your journey. Your first destination is the beautiful village of Antequera, an ancient city that has fascinating Roman ruins. A treasure trove of historic monuments, Antequera is packed with palaces, convents, churches and elegant houses. Be sure to visit San Sebastián Church with its baroque Mudéjar tower featuring a winged figure called Angelote (which translates to "big angel") and is the symbol of Antequera. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the city and be sure to sample the traditional Jamón Iberico (cured Spanish ham). After lunch, you’ll continue driving to Granada. This evening, take advantage of the opportunity to have tapas in Granada (tapas are light appetizers usually served with a small glass of Spanish wine). Go on a festive tour of the local scene from one tapas bar to the next. Enjoy meeting the locals while discovering Granada’s diverse and vivacious culture.

Malaga - Enjoy the Costa Del Sol

Begin the day with one of the most amazing sights on this trip: the Alhambra, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spectacular sight deserves a visit of at least a few hours so you can explore the expansive grounds. The last Moorish fortress in Andalusia, the Alhambra was the summer residence of the Nasrid Sultans. Set on a hill high above the city of Granada and looking out to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Alhambra is a lush oasis of splendid palaces. The crowning glory of the complex is the Generalife Gardens—flourishing with vegetation and designed with typical Andalusian courtyards. You’ll see many lovely fountains and small channels flowing with water. The Moors considered the Alhambra to be their oasis, and the fountains and running water were a symbol of Moorish richness. After visiting the Alhambra, spend some time exploring the historic center of Granada, which has many lovely squares and is perfect for people-watching or just soaking up the Spanish sunshine.

In the afternoon, continue on to your next destination. After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Málaga on the sunny Costa del Sol coastline. Málaga has a pleasant historic center with lovely villas and palm-lined gardens. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and wide sandy beaches, Málaga is a wonderful vacation destination. After you arrive and check in to your hotel, you can spend some time at the beach or explore the sights. The city has an excellent Picasso Museum that showcases the work of the city’s famous native son. Located in a 16th-century palace, the museum has a collection of over 200 pieces representing a wide selection of Picasso’s artistic styles. For dinner this evening, enjoy a meal of regional cuisine and be sure to sample the fresh fish.

Ronda - The White Houses of Ronda

Departing from Málaga this morning, you’ll drive to the village of Mijas, famous for its donkeys that were once an important mode of transportation. One of the typical Andalusian “Pueblos Blancos” (whitewashed villages), Mijas features a cluster of little houses stacked at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas Mountain Range. The village is surrounded by a pine forest and has the benefit of lovely seaside views. Once you settle in to your hotel, you may begin exploring this charming village. You can even take a donkey ride through the old town. Then enjoy a traditional lunch of local Andalusian specialties. A lively place to visit, Mijas is famous for its cuisine as well as for its deep-rooted custom of festivals and fairs.

After visiting Mijas, continue on to the exclusive beach resort of Marbella. This beautiful town on the Costa del Sol is a fashionable summer destination for the rich and famous. Be sure to visit Puerto Banus, the exclusive shopping and restaurant district located on Marbella’s marina. Admire the fancy yachts and then go for a seaside stroll. The village of Marbella also has a quaint medieval quarter with cobblestone streets and pleasant courtyards. You may hang out in Marbella for the afternoon before continuing on to Ronda, where you’ll be staying this evening.

Seville - History through the Ages

Ronda is a historic town located in a dramatic setting on the edge of a ravine. One of the oldest towns in Spain and the birthplace of bullfighting, Ronda has an impressive bullring. The city has retained its historic charm and traditional culture, such as a pilgrimage every year to honor the Virgen de la Cabeza. The most impressive and unmissable sight of Ronda is the Puente Nuevo, the incredible bridge that spans the deep El Tajo Gorge.

Continuing on from Ronda, you’ll return to Seville this afternoon. Visit the Real Alcázar that once served as the palace of a Moorish Caliph. The Alcázar was converted to a Christian palace after the Reconquista and is still an official residence of the Spanish monarchy. Admire the exquisite geometric patterns crafted from colorful tiles, so distinctive of Islamic design. Some of the decor was embellished during the Christian rule, but for the most part the palace has retained the original Islamic look and feel. Take a pleasant stroll through the Alcázar’s gardens and relax in one of the courtyards. Another must-see site in Seville is the Seville Barrio de Santa Cruz, the most fashionable district of the city. This neighborhood was once the city’s Jewish quarter. As you wander through the narrow medieval streets and pass by lovely patios and courtyards, you may stumble across churches that were once synagogues. Tonight celebrate the conclusion of your fabulous vacation with a special dinner and then watch a festive Flamenco performance at a tablao Flamenco, a typical performance venue—the ultimate Andalusian experience.

Seville - Tour Concludes with Departure from Seville

The tour concludes today after breakfast. You’ll drive your rental car back to the airport and drop it off in time to catch your return flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Explore the enchanting cities and beautiful landscape of Andalusia
• Travel by car at your own pace and stop at your choice of sights
• Visit magnificent cities: Seville, Córdoba, Granada, Málaga, Ronda
• Take a side trip to Mijas, a typical whitewashed village with sea views
• Go on a treasure hunt of historic monuments in the city of Antequera
• Tour the spectacular Alhambra Palace, a breathtaking Moorish fortress
• See the most important Islamic site in Europe, Córdoba’s old mosque
• Experience traditional Andalusia culture: tapas and Flamenco dance
• Wander the medieval streets, relax in courtyards, enjoy the ambience

Detailed Description

When the Moors of North Africa arrived in southern Spain in the 8th century, they discovered a landscape so wondrous that they decided to stay for 700 years. With its plentiful supply of water and lush vegetation, Andalusia was considered an oasis. The Moors made their new home an earthly paradise, a place that seemed more like a dream than a kingdom. Over several centuries, this ancient Moorish empire became one of the most magnificent civilizations the world has ever seen. Under Islamic rule, a multicultural society of Muslims, Jews and Christians flourished. Andalusia’s fascinating legacy of cultural heritage is seen in its magnificent historic monuments, which are resplendent examples of Islamic architecture and design.

This customizable tour of Spain allows you to travel by car at your own pace. You’ll discover the splendid sites and world-renowned cities of Seville, Córdoba, Granada, Málaga and Ronda. You’ll also visit the small but noteworthy town of Antequera, with its exceptional Roman ruins, and the typical whitewashed village of Mijas that has spectacular seaside views. As you drive to your destinations, you’ll have a chance to admire the incredible Andalusian landscapes—from the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range to the Costa del Sol.

Immerse yourself in the convivial squares, energy and culture of this amazing place. Marvel at the splendid artistry of Moorish architecture in Seville, the intricate patterns are remarkable. Seville is a place of unforgettable spirit, where the old streets, the peaceful River Guadalquivir and the magic rhythm of the Flamenco dance add to its charm. At the Alhambra in Granada, stunning palaces and lush gardens filled with fountains will enchant you. On the Costa del Sol, you’ll vacation like the rich and famous at exclusive restaurants and beach clubs. In Córdoba, admire the grandeur of La Mezquita, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. This exquisitely preserved 8th-century mosque is a triumph of Islamic design and a tribute to the glory of the ancient Moorish kingdom. Explore the labyrinth of narrow streets in Córdoba’s medieval Jewish quarter.

This self drive tour of Southern Spain will immerse you in the best of what Southern Spain has to offer and will surely impress you with lifelong memories.

Starting Price

$2,179  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.92 stars based on 2277 reviews.

Reviewed By  Ernest M.

Reviewed By  Donna K.

Reviewed By  Lori A.

Reviewed By  Brenna M.

Reviewed By  Damian A.

Reviewed By  SUZANNE A.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

Describe your dream trip

Get matched with top travel specialists

Book the trip

Help Me Plan My Trip

Free service - no credit card required

Deals of the Week   Unforgettable Asia   Up to 50% OFF

Andalucia Tours & Trips

• Andalucia 10 day
• Andalucia 7 day
• Andalucia from Malaga
• Andalucia from Seville
• Andalucia from Madrid

156 Andalucia tour packages with 1,730 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Tuesdays

The trip had enough daily experiences mixed with enough free time. I would travel again with VPT based on this experience.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Best of Southern Spain

The itinerary was good; liked the fact that we had a lot of time on our own and that we had the same hotel at least 2 nights in a row.

• Coach / Bus

South of Spain with Lisbon

The places and hotel was good. We had to have spanish and english - which sometimes we feel the english information was way less than the spanish.

Madrid and Andalusia (6 destinations)

I had an amazing time! Sensitivity training may be a good idea for travelers to take as well.

Best of Spain

Elina has superb qualities of leader and manager, extensive and deep knowledge of places we visited.

Colors of Spain - 8 Days

Very enjoy the trip in Southern Spain

From Madrid to Barcelona

I really enjoyed the tour. We really enjoyed the places that were in the itinerary and the overall experience.

Premium Spain

Andalusia and Toledo 5 Days from Madrid

The 4-day tour in Andalusia was very well organized: in a short time we covered great distances, visited important sights and learned many new interesting things.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Portugal, Andalucia and Morocco from Madrid

Our group really enjoyed the itinerary and support provided throughout the trip.

Discover Moorish Spain National Geographic Journeys

Great itinerary and spectacular sights, but the lack of private transportation resulted in numerous waits.

Colors of Charming Spain - 9 Days

The itinerary was excellent. The only reason we have it a 4 vs a 5 is that we paid for 'superior' hotels.

Andalusia with Costa del Sol & Toledo

The locations were all amazing and the guides we met along the way were very good all around.

Essential Spain

Italy was amazing! The tour Indus ran was flawless and my companion and I really enjoyed it.

Highlights of Andalucia

We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Andalucia. I highly recommend this tour to anybody.

What people love about Andalucia Tours

Great Trip, We felt like the trip had enough daily experiences mixed with enough free time. Our Guide and Driver were the best! Enjoyed the entire week, the only thing we would change is a few of the hotel dinners were not for us. I would travel again with VPT based on this experience and would request Miguel and Gabriel guide us along. James B

The itinerary was good; liked the fact that we had a lot of time on our own and that we had the same hotel at least 2 nights in a row. Did not like the fact that we had to take a public bus to our hotel with luggage in tow, and that we had to drag our luggage to various pick-up stops. We have not experienced that on prior tours. The day in Cordoba was poorly planned, leaving us no time to tour the city on our own as was promised. Otherwise everything was fine.

Awesome tour with Europamundo! Enjoy every bit of it. Seville was amazing, overall, an excellent tour. Looking forward for my next year tour with Europamundo

Top operators

"Thank you for an amazing trip through Andalucia & Toledo! We saw and learned so much...even go to see the Feria (festival) in Seville. Our driver was wonderful and tour guides in each spot were enthusiastic, knowledgable and bilingual (since we needed it in English). The hotels were wonderful and the meals delicious. We have recommended this tour to many others!

VPT Tours is an expert in:

"A well put together tour led by an excellent guide. A great way to see the highlights of Southern Spain in a short period of time but with sufficient time to explore by yourself. Highly recommended.

G Adventures is an expert in:

• Hiking & Trekking

"Changing tour guide at each city visited. Tour disorganized Very hectic and stressful trying to get into the correct tour bus and correct guide.

Europamundo is an expert in:

Andalucia Tours starting in:

• Madrid (51)
• Malaga (24)
• Seville (19)
• Group (127)
• Fully Guided (106)
• Family (95)
• Explorer (73)
• In-depth Cultural (69)
• Personalized (44)
• Coach / Bus (25)
• Private (24)
• Partially Guided (23)
• Self-Guided (22)
• Bicycle (17)
• Active (16)
• Hiking & Trekking (15)
• River Cruise (13)
• Self Drive (11)
• Intl. Flights Included (10)
• 7 Day Tours (34)
• 10 Day Tours (57)
• 2 Week Tours (10)
• 3 Week Tours (8)
• Summer 2024 (79)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (100)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (65)
• Spring 2025 (67)
• Summer 2025 (27)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (31)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (15)
• June 2024 (64)
• July 2024 (66)
• August 2024 (69)
• September 2024 (87)
• October 2024 (95)
• November 2024 (75)
• December 2024 (57)
• January 2025 (49)
• February 2025 (57)
• March 2025 (63)
• April 2025 (31)
• May 2025 (30)

Other Regions in Spain

• Southern Spain (153)
• Northern Spain (139)
• Costa Brava (76)
• Catalonia (69)
• Galicia (54)
• Canary Islands (49)
• Balearic Islands (47)
• Mallorca (39)
• Valencia Region (18)
• Tenerife (18)
• Costa Del Sol (12)
• Cantabria & Asturias (11)
• Gran Canaria (9)
• La Gomera (8)
• Costa de Luz (5)

Travel Styles

• Budget (13)
• Luxury (11)
• Singles and Solo (101)
• For Couples (52)
• Seniors (61)

Discover TourRadar

• China Tours
• Spain Tours
• Destination Services Bulgaria tours
• Czech Republic 10 day tours
• Mediterranean Budget tours
• New Zealand September 2024 tours
• Austria and Germany Budget tours

10 Epic Spain Road Trips - Maps, Itineraries and Tips

Want to experience an amazing Spain road trip but not sure where to go? Choose from these 10 stunning routes for your road trip in Spain with our guides, detailed itineraries and insider tips.

Whether you're looking to relax in the mountains off the Costa del Sol, navigate the narrow streets of Toledo or take a stroll down Barcelona's Las Ramblas, we can help you plan the perfect Spanish road trip for you.

Best Spain road trips comparison

We have driven up and down and across Spain a lot of times over the past 15 years. Before we dive into the ideas, here's the complete list of the best road trip routes with key information. Scroll down to see more detail on each one.

Whether you want a relaxing drive along the coast or drive around the entire country of Spain, here are the 10 amazing options for a Spain road trip to pick from.

1. Andalucia road trip

A perfect way to explore Spain is to drive around Andalucia . If you love the sun, beaches and perfect mountain hideaways overlooking the sea, Andalucia is the place for you.

If you are more into culture and love grandiose cathedrals, medieval fortresses and jaw dropping architecture, Andalucia is also a place for you.

If, however, you just want to walk around historic towns and love traditional hearty Spanish food, you guessed it - Andalucia is your perfect destination.

The perfect Andalucia road trip will take you on a loop including coastal destinations such as Nerja, Malaga, Marbella, Gibraltar and Cadiz before going inland to discover Ronda, Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

This drive will scale mountains with breathtaking views and take you to the mesmerising Mezquita cathedral in Cordoba and the unique Moorish Alhambra complex in Granada.

You'll relax in the world famous Andalucian white villages of Mijas, Benahavis and Casares and mingle with new money in Puerto Banus' marina full of expensive supercars, people with too much plastic surgery and the world's biggest yachts.

Road trip length: 11 days

Total distance: 518 miles

2. Drive Spain's Mediterranean coast

Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip - just make sure you put sun screen on your left arm if you're driving - the sun gets hot!

Start your road trip with a mini-break in Barcelona where you can visit sights such as La Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and unique buildings designed by Gaudi. There are few cities that offer as much as Barcelona so it's a perfect start to the Mediterranean coast trip.

Next leg takes you south to Valencia - a seriously underrated Spanish city that offers culture, food and sunshine aplenty with an amazing historical centre.

Once you've crossed over the Sierra Nevada mountains, your trip continues to Granada, Costa del Sol, Seville and Cordoba.

You will do an abridged version of the Andalucia road trip above, but get a much broader view of Spain having driven from one corner to another.

Hugging the coast for virtually the entire trip means that you are always a few minutes away from a beach - something that can provide welcome distractions on your way.

This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages.

Road trip length: 14 days

Total distance: 1,385 miles

3. Castille Leon - visit the heart of Spain

If you're flying in and out of Madrid, the Castille and Leon road trip can be an amazing way to explore Spain without having to drive all the way to the coast or spend weeks on the road.

This road trip through Spain's heartland comes in a loop that starts and ends in the Segovia province.

You will start in the historic city of Segovia itself - famous for some of Spain's best architecture and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After a day of exploring, the route heads west towards Salamanca via Arévalo. Arévalo is a small historic town famous for its Mudejar architecture and art giving it a special protected status in Spain and Salamanca is an ancient city with two cathedrals - the New one (it is actually called that) began construction in 1513!

From Salamanca, you can check out other beautiful historic towns of Ledesma and Zamora before a stop in Valladolid - the assumed capital of the Castille and Leon province. Its medieval history can be seen throughout the city - the Spanish Monarchy even made Valladolid their home in the 17th century!

After a visit to the city that shares its name with the Castile and Leon region, the trip ends with a drive through the Ribera del Duero wine region - hugely underrated relative to Rioja and the Portuguese Douro wine further down the same river valley.

The end of the trip gets you to Pedraza back in the Segovia province before taking a short drive back to Madrid's airport.

You can extend this road trip to include the historic Spanish cities of Leon and Burgos in the north of the province, but that will add a lot of mileage and time to your trip and southern Castille and Leon has a huge amount to see already - you can easily spend 2 weeks exploring this part of Spain and see new places every day.

Road trip length: 7 days

Total distance: 345 miles

4. Northern Spain road trip

So often overlooked in favour of Costa Brava, Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip exploring the mix of cultures, fantastic food and rocky shore scenery.

The road trip starts in the capital of Spain's Basque country - Bilbao. This is a place worth spending a couple of days in to explore its old historic centre, the surrounding mountains and the spectacular world-famous Guggenheim museum.

There is something for everybody in Bilbao with superb pintxos in street bars and michelin-starred restaurants, medieval streets and modern boulevards.

The road trip then moves west along the coast to Santander, before further stops in Santillana del Mar, the Picos de Europa national park and Gijon.

This trip includes a mix of beaches, historic Spanish cities and exploring nature - a perfect mix for a Spanish road trip!

Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna.

Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way.

Depending on your flights, you might have to do a drive back along the coast to Bilbao or down to Porto or Madrid - this is one heck of a trip that you won't find in many recommendations or guides!

Road trip length: 10 days

Total distance: 737 miles

5. Basque country and Pyrenees

Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and... mountains.

The Basque country is a unique part of Spain - they have a prominent local language, cities that make up two prominent medieval kingdoms (Basque and Navarre) and a unique link to the Pyrenees. In medieval times, Basque country spanned the mountain range, including parts of France on the other side.

Today the region fervently focuses on its culture. As you travel in major cities such as Bilbao, San Sebastian and Pamplona, you will get to try the local pintxos tradition. In some ways similar to tapas popular in the rest of Spain, pintxos are smaller bite-size snacks served in bars and charged by number or by plate.

If you get out of the tourist areas, you will find local pintxo bars where the snacks are free as long as you keep buying the drinks!

The Pyrenees are an amazing mountain range that is not high on many tourists' radars.

Often overlooked in favour of trips to the Alps or even Sierra Nevada further south in Spain, the Pyrenees are an older mountain range with a lot of peaks over 3,000m above sea level.

The roads through the Pyrenees are fantastic and can make for really great road trips with the added bonus of hardly any other cars as you drive around. There are some fantastic hotels if you want to really relax and go off the grid for a few days - we have stayed at The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees and cannot recommend it highly enough - it is expensive but super luxurious and worth it!

A small number of rooms have stunning views of the surrounding hills with morning fog climbing towards the peaks and you can relax in a jacuzzi looking out over the landscape before having an amazing dinner in the hotel's gastro restaurant.

After a few days of luxuriating, it's time to drive down from the mountainside and make your way to Pamplona - a historic city famous for its July bull running festival has far more to offer than the medieval tradition. Narrow streets, beautiful stone buildings and fantastic local coffee shops are great for unwinding in late morning.

The drive back to Bilbao airport is a little under 2 hours to get you back home!

Total distance: 240 miles

6. Driving tour of Catalonia

There is a whole lot more to Spain's Catalonia region than Barcelona. You can spend weeks travelling around the area and still not see dozens of amazing villages, secret beaches, mountain waterfalls or quirky museums.

If you want to base yourself in Barcelona, instead of going on a road trip, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration on where you can get to!

A great route around the region can start and end in Barcelona to make it easy with flights.

From Barcelona, head south along the coast to Tarragona with a stop in Sitges and the option of relaxing in one of a few great beaches along the way.

From Tarragona, this trip goes inland towards Montblanc and all the way to La Seu d'Urgell in the Pyrenees via Solsona.

On your route across the north of Catalonia, you are spoilt for choice with the Garrotxa volcanic national park and the village of Santa Pau worth visiting, a detour into Andorra and towns like Besalu and Castellfollit de la Roca all great options before you arrive in Figueres.

After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum.

The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. There are tonnes of great places to stop including Roses resort, the canals of Empuriabrava, L'Escala and Begur. A drive inland to Girona is optional before you make it down to the relaxation end of the journey with beach stops in Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar on the menu.

There are few parts of the world which have so much to see in such a compact region both culturally and in nature. If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain.

Road trip length: 9 days

Total distance: 520 miles

7. Historic central Spain - Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla - La Mancha is one of the largest regions of Spain and also one of the least well known by tourists.

Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east.

Exploring this region brings a mix of natural sights and beautiful historic Spanish cities. As with the Castille Leon trip, it's easy to start and finish in Madrid if that's where you can get easy flights to.

This Spain road trip starts in the most famous city in the La Mancha region - Toledo. Toledo is famous as a blend of Christian, Muslim and Jewish religions and cultures. It was the capital city of the Visigoth Empire, Spanish Moors and later of Spain at some points during the course of history.

After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel.

There is a lot to see in this part of Spain including the infamous windmills made famous by Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote. The majority of the region is set on a plateau with occasional barren hills.

The trip continues east to Cuenca and Siguenza - both stunning towns but in completely different ways and both very different from a lot of typical Spanish destinations.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are a number of national parks on the way where you can stretch your legs on a hike or just take a scenic detour.

Total distance: 380 miles

8. Galicia road trip

Getting to and from the region can be tough so you might have to adjust the route depending on where you're travelling from.

The plan with this road trip is to go all the way round the Galician coastline starting from As Catedrais beach. If you don't know it by name, you've definitely seen pictures of giant rocks and archways on the sandy beach before.

Although this trip is only 5 days long, you'll spend a few of these driving along small coastal roads. Our tip is to ignore the navigator which will send you inland along faster roads. Keep the sea to your right as you go and you're unlikely to go too far wrong.

After passing the Vixia Herbeira cliffs, you'll arrive in A Coruña. Other than the Hercules Tower, the main sight here is the light house. Naturally.

Take a day to see the city and its surroundings - seafood here is amazing as it's a functioning port supplying much of the region and beyond.

The trip then continues around the coast to Santiago de Compostela. You can take the direct short cut but you will miss out on a whole lot of stunning scenery, ocean-facing cliffs and spectacular locations for light houses - on the shoreline, on cliffs and even on their own islands.

After exploring the historic and religiously important city, the route goes back towards the coast and passes Pontevedra on the way to the pretty town of Vigo.

This might not be so much of a Spanish road trip as a gentle breeze along the coast (and there will be a lot of breeze!), but it's definitely one to keep in mind if you want to unwind and keep yourself away from the tourist traps around Spain.

Road trip length: 5 days

Total distance: 322 miles

9. Road trip around Mallorca

Many don't associate Mallorca with a road trip, but the island has a huge amount to offer beside the beaches and clubs.

Flying in and out of Palma means that's a great place to start and finish your trip.

Palma is the capital and often overlooked by visitors who go straight from airport to their preferred corner of the island. The city actually has a lot to offer so it's great to spend the first or last night here depending on your flight times.

Make sure you check out the huge Cathedral (you really can't miss it) and the part of the city around the market (only open in the morning).

Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around.

Start by heading along the narrow cliff roads along the coast to Valdemossa and Soler - the two very popular destinations to the north of Palma. After that the road trip continues all the way to Port de Pollença before heading across the island to Cala Mesquida.

Once you've navigated the tourists, a short drive down the coast takes you to Cala Agulla where the beaches are empty and the sun is just as hot for some relaxation.

To wrap up the trip, you've got to stop off at the resort town of Cala d'Or before making your way back to Palma.

A short trip with a lot of breathtaking views and cliffs in the north and resorts with fantastic beaches on the south can be the perfect way to unwind on a short break!

Total distance: 175 miles

10. The full circle - A complete road trip around Spain

If you have time on your hands and feel adventurous, a road trip around the entirety of Spain can be an amazing way to delve into the culture, see all the corners of this amazing country and really get immersed.

One key disclaimer is that while this one sits high on our list of bucket list trips, we haven't actually done the full trip - it's a long drive!

But if you're brave enough, you can start wherever along the route you like as you it goes in a loop.

Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba.

After exploring central Spain with stops in Toledo and surrounding towns and a tour of Madrid, the drive continues into Spain's Duero valley, Valladolid and on to Galicia's Vigo, Santiago de Compostela and A Coruna while taking in breathtaking views of ocean-facing cliffs and huge waves.

The trip continues along the north coast stopping off at Santander, Bilbao and San Sebastian before detouring off into the Pyrenees and the historic cities of Pamplona and Zaragoza. A mini Catalonia tour to end the trip wraps up the route that will take at least a month to complete if you want to do things other than driving.

If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! We'd love to see how you get on!

Road trip length: 35 days

Total distance: 2,800 miles

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• United Kingdom
• Curated Stays
• Wine Travel
• About Isabelle
• Work with Us

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

• Isabelle Hoyne
• May 20, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

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

Table of Contents Hide

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.

• Alhambra Day Trip | Day Trip to Alhambra from Seville: How to Pull off a Flawless Visit
• 2 days in Granada | Granada in 2 days: Ultimate Itinerary & Top Tips
• Alhambra travel guide | Visiting the Alhambra – Ultimate Guide + Insider Alhambra Tips
• One day in Granada | Best of Granada in One Day: Where to Go, Eat & Stay
• Where to stay in Granada | Where to Stay in Granada, Spain [2024] – Top Areas & Accommodation
• How long in Granada? | How Many Days in Granada Do You Really Need?
• Andalucia itinerary | The Perfect Andalucia Itinerary for 7, 10, or 14 Days

Related Topics

• Itineraries

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

You May Also Like

20 best sri lanka safari hotels across 6 national parks.

• April 26, 2024
• Lisbon & Tagus

Is Sintra Worth Visiting? 12 Pros, 5 Challenges + Top Tips

• March 5, 2024
• French Riviera

Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 11 Best Locations (& Hotels)

• February 29, 2024

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Andalucia Touring Holidays

Take an Andalucia touring holiday and discover the amazing history and cultural diversity which make the region so fascinating. Marvel at the Moorish heritage in Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba and Carmona, the renaissance splendour of Úbeda and Osuna and the modern cultural delights of Málaga, the ‘city of museums’. With Alpine mountain scenery in Grazalema, Sierra Nevada and Cazorla and the Atlantic coastline of the Costa de la Luz, what more could you ask for?

Fly direct or via Madrid

Fly direct from the UK to Málaga, Sevilla, Granada or Jerez or fly to Madrid and take the high speed train to Córdoba or Sevilla.

Independent self-drive touring with all the info and support you need. Bespoke itineraries – designed and organised by our experts. Fly to Spain and we’ll include a car – please ask about train options.

Choose from our Andalucian Touring Holidays

Showing 4 results

Fly or ferry >

Special interest >.

Discover Cádiz – the Province of Light AC4

Cádiz – a circular tour of the province.

Based on 10 nights self-drive, independent tour in Andalucia

Andalucia Golden Triangle AC1

Sevilla - cordoba - granada.

Based on 7 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Discover Andalucia Tour AC2

A circular route in central andalucia.

Based on 14 nights self-drive independent tour in Spain

Caminos de Pasión Tour AC3

Charming towns at the heart of andalucia, bespoke andalucia touring holidays.

Our expert team will help you plan your trip – adapting the route to fit with your preferred flights and dates. And talk to us about your personal requirements and interests – be it sherry tasting in Jerez, birdwatching in the Doñana National Park, tracing the history of the American treasure in Cadiz, Sanlucar and Sevilla or simply finding the perfect beach or mountain retreat…

Our Andalucia tours cover the provinces of Sevilla, Cádiz, Granada, Málaga, Jaén and Córdoba – they can be combined to make bespoke tours and we have several hotels coming soon which could be incorporated in your itinerary – please ask!

tel: +441223328721 [email protected]

UK 01223 328721

EU + 44 1223 328721

USA 1-888-710-4864

AUS 1800-595412

Send us a brief message about your requirements and we'll be in touch straight away...

Name (required)

Email (required)

Phone No(s)

By making an enquiry I authorise you to store and process my personal information (for the purposes of this enquiry only) in accordance with Our Privacy Statement . Sign me up for the newsletter! - no more than once per month

Mailing list Sign-up

Email address:

Our Privacy Statement

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

Driving in Andalucia – 25 essential tips (+video)

Last updated on August 27, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Should you rent a car in Andalucia? My answer is definitively a yes. Below is my complete guide about driving in Andalucia to help you plan, including:

• Is driving difficult? safe?
• D riving rules,
• Road conditions and safety tips,
• Parking information,
• Car rental tips
• Most beautiful roads not to miss,

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Andalucia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Andalucia: DiscoverCars

The unmissable visit: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces

My favorite excursion from Seville: White villages and Ronda

My favorite places to stay:

• Seville , to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• Cadiz , the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• Ronda , to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• Nerja , pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

Driving in Andalucia – Essentials to know + video

Essentials to know before driving in andalucia.

If you don’t want to read the entire article, here are the major points to be aware of about driving in Andalucia:

• Minimum age in 18 (but 21 for renting a car)
• Driving in on the right side of the road
• Roads are overall in good conditions
• Streets is old towns and villages can be very narrow, don’t choose a wide car
• Part of the country is mountainous
• National speed limits are – 120 km/h on dual carriageways and motorways, 90 km/h on all other roads and 30 km/h in built-up areas.
• There are a few toll roads in Andalucia (you can pay with cash and credit card)
• In case of accident – emergency number: 112

Below is a short video to give you a taste of what driving in Andalucia looks like:

• on motorways,
• on main roads,
• on mountain roads,
• in towns and villages,
• on unpaved roads,

Where I get my rental car

I always compare prices right away on  Discovercars.co m . This is one of the best customer-rated comparison sites on the market. I have found really great deals and I think the platform super easy to use. I can filter based on my criteria.

Plus, they have a practical coverage option at great price that will cover you in case of damage to the outside of the car.

Check out their current car rental deals in Spain .

Need more help renting a car in Andalucia? Read my 36 tips for a worry-free experience.

Getting around Andalucia – by car or not?

Do you need a car in andalucia.

• No, if you only want to stay and visit the cities of Sevilla or Granada
• No, if you are planning to lay on the beaches of Costa del sol all day
• Yes, if you you want to enjoy the variety of sceneries Andalucia has to offer
• Yes, if you want to have the freedom to adapt your program to the weather or avoid the crowded times,
• Yes, if you want to enjoy the gems off the beaten path

Overall, I think  renting a car  is the best way to explore the island and see all the best things to do, plus off the beaten path locations.

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Andalucia :

Plan your dream trip in Andalucia thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 150+ pre-selected locations
• GPS + tips to make the most of your time
• 300+ original photos to help you choose

Is driving in Andalucia safe? Is it easy?

There is no need to worry, it is not that difficult. Remember that only people who had a scare tend to write about it online, all the people who had no problems don’t.

Here is my analysis of the situation:

On the positive side:

• Roads are overall in good conditions,
• Mountain roads I have taken always had protection on the side,
• Speed limits were generally respected.

On the negative side:

• Streets in old villages can be very narrow and impressive
• Strong rain can start abruptly and limit visibility

In my personal experience: I have not felt unsafe during my stay.

Getting around Andalucia without a car

You can see a little bit of Andalucia without a car, but you will be very limited

• Organized tours –  You can land in Malaga, stay at a beach town and book a few excursions to nearby attractions on Costa del Sol 
• Organized tours –  You can stay in Seville or Granada and book day trips to attractions in the areas – see options
• Public transportation –  you can take buses or trains between the main towns and explore a little more. But you will be limited in what you can see.

Driving times in Andalucia Map

Below is a map of the driving times you can expect around Andalucia:

#1 to 6 – Spanish Driving Rules

Let’s start with general rules and regulations you should be aware of:

#1 – License requirement / Age –  Do I need an international driver’s permit?

To drive in Spain you need a valid driving licence from your country.

• People with EU licenses can drive on their holidays with only their valid national licenses
• All other nationalities must have an International Driving Permit (on top of their national license)

You must be 18 years of age (but know that many rental companies may have other age requirements).

It is also mandatory to always have the vehicle registration documents as well as a valid ID, such as your passport, with you.

#2 – Side of the road

Driving is on the right side of the road. It is very important to remember it on one lane roads when you have to give way!

#3 – General behavior rules

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all
• No cell phone while driving
• Kids under 12 cannot seat in the front of the car
• Do not wear flip-flops to drive
• Overtaking can only be done on the left side

#4 – Alcohol and driving

The legal alcohol limit here is 0.05%. Driving under the influence is considered a serious offense. I always recommend not drinking at all if you are driving.

#5 – Mandatory equipment to have in your car

In Spain, the following pieces of equipment must be available in the car:

• 2 Warning triangles 
• Reflective vest or jacket
• Spare wheel and tools to change it
• First aid kit (advised, not mandatory)
• Flashlight (advised, not mandatory)
• Children under 18kg (39.7 pounds) in weight must be in child seats
• Children under 135cm (4.4ft) tall should be in the rear seats on a booster.

#6 – Mandatory insurance in Spain

The only mandatory insurance in Spain is: unlimited third-party liability insurance – it is automatically included in the price of all car rentals. If you are visiting with your own car, don’t forget to bring proof of insurance.

Compare car rental prices in Andalucia

#7 to 13 – Roads conditions and Road Signs in Andalucia

#7 – conditions of motorways and fast roads.

• The motorways and fast roads are in good conditions
• Lanes are clearly marked
• Drive on the right lane, unless overtaking
• Overtaking is always on the left side
• There are some tunnels – nothing scary, they are wide and well lit

#8 – Conditions of other roads to enjoy

Overall, I have found the road in good conditions. Most of them are wide with clear lanes.

In the mountain, roads can be sometimes a little bit more narrow. But there was always trees, railing or wall to protect on a drop side.

#9 – Unpaved roads

There are a few famous attractions that are accessible only via unpaved road. The most famous is Playa de Monsul, a beach in Cabo de Gata. However, the gravel road is maintained and it is not that bad. You can reach it with a 2WD. Just know, that for those few km, you might not be covered by the rental car insurance.

#10 – Driving in towns & villages

For me, the most difficult part is following the GPS inside old towns and villages and ended up in front of very narrow streets. This is why I don’t recommend renting a car that is too wide.

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

#11 – Speed limit & signs

• Speed limits are indicated on circular signs with red border and a number
• Speed limits are in kilometers per hour
• National speed limits are – 120 km/h on dual carriageways and motorways, 90 km/h on all other roads and 30 to 50 km/h in built-up areas.

#12 – Other road signs in Andalucia

The road signs are classic in latin letters, nothing specific to know. There are plenty of signs to indicate directions. Although sometimes in the countryside, they can be missing. 

Points of interest are indicated on brown signs.

#13 – Tolls in Andalucia

There are a few toll roads in Andalucia. You can easily avoid them. They are :

• AP-4 –  Sevilla to Cadiz (now free)
• AP-7 – Fuengirola with Algeciras via Marbella and Estepona
• AP-46 – Malaga to Villanueva de Cauche

They are identified by AP (Autopista Paeje) while the motorways without tolls are just A.

You can pay with cash or card. So you don’t need a pass or stickers from the rental company.

You are generally required to take a ticket when you enter the motorway, and then settle the amount of the toll at another booth when exiting.

#14 to 16 – How to drive safely

#14 – know the potential dangers.

Apart from you driving too fast, the main dangers on the Andalusian roads are:

• The animals In the mountains and the countryside, you can have animals appearing on the side or on roads. Pay attention!
• Pouring rain Andalucia can be subject to intense rainfalls and flashfloods.

#15 – Specific driving tips

Some specifics to Andalucia driving are:

• In old villages, there can be narrow sharp turn. But look up, there are often mirrors to help you see.
• Don’t plan too much – There is much to see an do everywhere on the territory. Planning a road trip is not easy. Make sure to select really your top places to see.

#16 – What to do in case of accident

In case there are people hurt or there is a conflict, the emergency number is 112 . The best order of actions is:

• contact emergency services
• contact the police
• contact your rental provider

#17 to 18 – Parking in Andalucia

#17 – parking in towns.

• Blue lines  indicate that you have to pay in a nearby parking meter or automatic machine.
• Yellow lines mean that only disabled people are allowed to park 
• Parking in town can be expensive. There is hardly any free parking areas.
• Overall underground carparks are you best bet to avoid getting lost in narrow streets – they are generally safer and very common in all the large cities

#18 – Parking at attractions

• Parking at attractions vary greatly
• I depends if you are in a town or not
• Some beaches have free parking, others require paiement
• Some attractions have free parking, others require paiement
• Overall, if you are visiting a very popular place, go early to easily find parking.

Where to stay in Andalucia?

My favorites on a road trip:

• In Sevilla, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• In Cadiz, the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• In Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• In Granada, for the history – see best rated accommodations
• In Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

#18 to 19 – Gas station

#18 – fuels and their names.

• Petrol station in Spanish is  “estación de servicio”
• Petrol is on green pump – called “gasolina” and if unleaded “gasolina sin plomo”
• Diesel is on Black pump called “gasoil”
• See the concentration of electric car charging station, where you are going in Spain  on this website

#19 – Management of gas stations

Petrol stations are available throughout the region of Andalucia. You can pay by cash or credit card.

#20 – Most beautiful roads in Andalucia

If you want to drive on the most beautiful roads in Andalucia, don’t miss:

• CA-9104 up to Puerto de las Palomas overlooking Embalse de Zahara el Gastor 
• A-402 through Zafarraya
• All the roads around Grazalema and Montejaque
• A-319 through Sierras de Carzola Natural Park
• Roads around Embalse de Negratin
• and many more…

#21 to 25 – Renting a car in Andalucia

Below is a snapshot with the main things to know.You can learn more on my article about renting a car in Spain.

#21 – Type of car to rent

• Transmission Most cars in Andalucia have manual transmission. You will pay more for automatic and they are fewer options.
• Size My main recommendation is to not pick a large car. There are many narrow roads where you can have to cross path with other cars and with bus. Driving a narrow car is less stressful.
• Power All cars will be able to drive all around the island. There are not very steep roads. However, It will be more comfortable in the mountains, if you don’t choose the smallest engine.
• No need for a 4WD

#22 – Where to rent

Cars can be rented for all major towns, airports and ports.

If you plan on visiting a major town near the airport (e.g. Barcelona, Sevilla…), I recommend renting the car before or after, so as not be bothered by the car while in town.

The main car rental hubs in Mainland Spain are: 

• Malaga airport –  see car rental deals
• Barcelona airport –  see car rental deals
• Alicante airport –  see car rental deals
• Madrid Airport –  see car rental deals
• Sevilla Airport –  see car rental deals
• Barcelona train station –  see car rental deals
• Malaga train station –  see car rental deals

#23 – Best rental car company

When reading reviews, don’t forget that on Tripadvisor or Google for example, anyone can write a review even if they have not used the company. 

On the platform  Discovercars.com , each rental company has a mark on 10 points. This is an average of the marks given by actual customers.On the search page, you have a filter to select only the best rated ones.

Some of the best rated rental car companies in Spain are:

I have personally used Enterprise at Sevilla Airport and it went smoothly.

Compare car rental prices

#24 – General tips for worry-free experience

• There is nothing special about renting a car in Andalucia – no specific scam or rules
• As everywhere, I recommend a thorough examination of the car before taking it (and take pictures) – and don’t fall for extra insurance hard sell 
• Book early to get the best prices and the choice of cars

#25 – Crossing border

From Spain, you can:

•  take a ferry back to the Balearic islands (Ibiza, Mallorca…) –  Ferry prices available here
• cross the border to visit Portugal or France

Most of the companies do not allow you to take a ferry. And you will be in big trouble if you do go and have a technical issue or accident. For crossing borders, it depends. Make sure to check the rules.

If renting with  Discovercars.com , once you selected a car you can click on “Rental conditions” and then again “Rental conditions” or “Additional conditions” to find the “geographical restrictions”. If it is not documented, you can add the question to customer support.

Plan your Andalucia Itinerary

Want to see more of the best Andalucia has to offer?

• Best landscapes in Andalucia in 40 pictures – read article
• 24 best things to do in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
• 17 most beautiful white villages in Andalucia – read article
• 20 best beaches in Andalucia – read article
• 21+ best cities and towns in Andalucia – read article
• Best castles and forts in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
• Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada – where to go? – read article
• Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia – read article

Planning a trip to Andalucia?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

PREVIOUS: 

Where to stay in Andalucia – 15 best places

NEXT: 

Village of Zuheros, Andalucia

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr LoireLovers.fr CorsicaLovers.fr Provencelovers.fr

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca

Travel Safe

Tour of the white villages of Andalusia

The province of Cadiz has its own white villages route, with 19 stops: Arcos de la Frontera , Bornos , Espera , Villamartín , Algodonales , El Gastor , Olvera , Torre Alháquime , Setenil de las Bodegas , Alcalá del Valle , Prado del Rey , El Bosque , Ubrique , Benaocaz , Villaluenga del Rosario , Grazalema , Zahara de la Sierra , Algar and Puerta Serrano . As well as the whitewashed houses, you can see archaeological sites, castles, little churches and memorable mountain landscapes. Each village has something to make the trip worthwhile: Setenil de las Bodegas has its curious cave houses built into the rocks; the white houses of Grazalema stand out against the green of the Natural Park surrounding it; Arcos de la Frontera has impressive viewing points... Depending on how much time you have, you can adapt the route to suit your interests.

Nature, local cuisine, crafts… Authenticity

Visiting the white villages also brings you to some fabulous scenery. Your trip could take you through the Serranía de Ronda , Los Alcornocales Natural Park or Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park , with ravines you would never expect to find so close to the sea. These areas are great for hiking, and you can spend the night in unique hotels and guest houses, such as a converted windmill. You can find artisanal goods (for example, Ubrique is well known for its leather workshops) and try the local cuisine with dishes made to be enjoyed at leisure, savouring every bite. For instance, the artisanal cheeses , local pastries such as buñuelos, dishes like migas or gazpacho , the traditional mollete bread rolls, or organic wine from Ronda. You can take these tours at any time, but we would recommend spring and autumn, when the temperature is milder. And a final tip for experiencing the white towns: don’t over-plan. Let things happen. Take your time discovering traditions, meeting friendly people, visiting artisan workshops, and reaching the places where everything seems perfect. It’s too good to rush!

Travel plans for inspiring you

The Menorca lighthouses route

The Northern Way

How much do you know about the routes of Spain? #SpainQuiz

Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

Holiday heatwave: Temperatures to soar as high as 40C in Spain and Portugal in just days

Hot weather in the South of Spain

By George Bunn

Published: 30/05/2024

Parts of the Guadalquivir valley such as Córdoba and Seville are expected to see the highest temperatures

Don't miss, dwp benefit and pension payment dates for june 2024, alesha dixon left red-faced as itv bgt act exposes flaw in 'live' performance, drunk briton arrested after on-board brawl with crew and passengers as he 'tried to open door mid-air', harry facing 'lose-lose' situation in us after new development, jeremy clarkson shuts down clarkson's farm co-star kaleb cooper over lisa hogan birthday remark, britons take revenge: majorca shocked as holidaymakers flee leaving island 'half empty', archaeology breakthrough as sarcophagus of egypt's greatest pharaoh finally discovered, knife attacker stabs multiple people on live stream in german city, electric scooter rule changes launching today could see more vehicles added to roads, trending on gb news, kate cancer speculation is 'unhealthy' as royal receives treatment.

British tourists are set to face temperatures of almost 40C for the first time this year in the south of Spain and Portugal.

Temperatures will be especially intense in the south of Spain such as parts of the Guadalquivir valley, like Córdoba and Seville.

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued heat warnings, with the hot weather persisting for a couple of days.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) predicts a rise in the maximum temperature over the next few days, which could lead to an increase in rural fires.

A tourist uses a hand fan to cool off, in a street in Ronda, Spain

The risk of wildfires has been classified as 'extreme' in some areas. Alerts have been issued to Zaragoza, inland Tarragona and south of Lleida, inland Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and Almeria.

In Portugal, the districts of Évora, Beja, Santarém, and Portalegre are under yellow warning until Friday night due to the persistence of high maximum temperatures.

The national Directorate-General for Health in Lisbon has recommended the population increase their intake of water or unsweetened natural fruit juices and avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages, as well as direct exposure to the sun between 11am and 5pm.

An IPMA spokesperson said: "The trend points to a small drop in temperature values during the weekend, however, maximum values should still remain high in the following days."

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• Palestine protest witnesses sought by police after 'sexual assault' on woman at London march
• Universal credit fraudsters jailed for combined total of 25 years after stealing £53m
• Roy Keane pictured 'elbowing' football fan after being 'headbutted' in heated brawl

Ronda, Spain

​Looking into next week, the weather will change over the next few days with a cold front that will cool things down initially in northern Spain before travelling southward.

There is also a chance for some rain across the eastern coastline next week, with some storms inland.

Temperatures on Saturday are expected to be around 25 degrees but it is expected to remain warm between 30 and 35 degrees in western Andalucia.

There have been warnings from Spanish meteorologists that this tourist season could even surpass the scorching temperatures of 2023, which broke all records for the past 30 years.

Director of the State Meteorological Agency in Malaga, Jesus Riesco said temperatures are "above the 1991-2020 climatological reference period."

He added: "It’s not unusual for Malaga...but the key will be the intensity of the heat."

However, Riesco was more optimistic about the situation in September, when "some DANAs (low-pressure systems) could bring intense precipitation."

It comes after Spain logged the warmest January since records began in 1961, with average temperatures last month reaching 8.4 degrees Celsius (47.1 Fahrenheit), 0.4 degrees above the previous record in 2016.

You may like

Listen live