Andalucia is one of the most diverse areas that you could have the pleasure of road tripping in Europe- with expansive beaches, glorious sunsets, bustling beach bars, cheap (and delicious) food and drink, the marvel-worthy Alhambra, the awe-inspiring White Villages, (former) “Most Dangerous Hike in the World” and the culture-filled city of Seville:
Malaga
I recommend flying into Malaga, stay a night or two in this small, relaxed beach-city. Check out the Alcazaba, the best preserved Moorish Fortress in Spain, which sits on a hill overlooking the whole city. Take a steep stroll up, or head to the elevator behind the City Hall. Treat yourself to an indulgent Moorish Baths spa experience at Hammam Al Andalus (not cheap, but a once in a lifetime experience): Plaza de los Mártires 5. Grab some cheap tapas at Mercado Central and people watch as the locals saunter past, going about their daily business. Head to Mirador de Gibalfaro for panoramic views overlooking the whole city, a beautiful spot for sunset (pack a picnic and a bottle of vino, if you fancy).
Beach time
The closest beach in Malaga is La Malagueta. Or for a more seaside vibe, head down the coast to Torremolinos to soak up some sun on the beach for a few days, making sure to check out Casa Los Navajos in Torremolinos, and grab amazing Sushi or Tacos at Tiki Lounge (booking recommended) or Paella Negro at Casa Juan Los Mellizos. Here’s our AirBnb with incredible views.
If passing through Benelmadena, make sure to check out the “Most Beautiful Marina in the World” – an amazing mix of Spanish and Arab culture, with distinct Dubai vibes. Grab a steak dinner at Angus, overlooking the marina. Don’t miss visiting Castillo de Colomares for an afternoon- a castle dedicated to the life and adventures of Christopher Columbus.
Granada
Next, head to Granada, stay at Carmen Real de Realejo and book tickets online to see the Alhambra in advance here (guided tour can be booked online here). Take a walk up to granada Mirador San Nicolas for unmatched views over the whole city and Alhambra walls. Book to see Flamenco in a Cave – recommended, given that Granada is allegedly the birthplace of Flamenco (one option is this one for €30pp).
Mijas
Mijas is a short trip from Benelmadena. It’s easiest to drive here and park in the town. Head to the Tourist Office to grab a map which suggests a walking route around the small cliff-side village. Make sure to check out the view from beside the church and do take 5 mins to pop into the Miniature Museum and see marvels such as the Last Supper painted on a grain of rice. For our fav pics spot, head to Ermita de La Virgen de La Pena and the Mirador here (Paseo de la Muralla, 2, 29650 Mijas). Grab lunch and a drink in one of the cafes with terraces. We spent 2-3hrs here in total, and it’s well worth a visit.
Ronda
Next up is Ronda, which will forever hold a place in my heart. I loved this town. Book into Paco’s AirBnb for €234 for 3 nights (sleeps 4 people) for unrivalled views overlooking the whole town.
Check out the town map here and make sure to walk the “cliff” route along the gardens to the Puente Nuevo, and down to the vantage point looking back on this iconic bridge. For an unforgettable sunset, head to Restaurante Panoramico for cocktails overlooking the bull ring and watch the sunset over the mountain range and surrounding valleys. Grab a late night drink at Restaurante Don Miguel, overlooking the iconic Puente Nuevo. For cheap tapas (€1.50 each), head to Calle Lauria – TapaArte is good👌🏻 Book the Acinipo Wine Bus (€59pp) or an individual Vineyard tour and Wine tasting session (€25pp). We went to Bodega Lunares as the wine bus wasn’t running – but if it’s anything like the Wine Tram in South Africa, the Wine Bus would be much better craic and a great day out.
Setenil De Las Bodegas
Head to this village built into cliff a short drive from Ronda for lunch and a wander if you have a spare afternoon – super cute and dramatic, it’s well worth a visit.
Nerja and Fragiliana
Nerja is probably one of the most famous Pueblo Blancos or “White Villages”. Book an AirBnb and stay here for a few days. Head to Fragiliana for a more serene, off the beaten track experience- with killer views from the white facades overlooking the sea. Fragiliana could almost be mistaken for the Greek Islands and is just as picturesque.
Caminito del Rey
Once known as the “Most Dangerous Hike in the World”, Caminito Del Rey is near Ronda or accessible by day trip from Malaga (1hr) or Seville (1hr40). This national park boasts incredible views on a (now very secure) walkway along the edge of a cliff and through valleys that rival Yosemite National Park. Tours available through English or Spanish are €18, or entry is €10 for an unguided hike. The hike is moderate and not strenuous or dangerous at all. Roughly 5km in total (1.5km from the car park to the start of the trail) and 3.5km to the bus stop which takes you back to the car park (make sure to buy your bus ticket with your ticket online). Allow 2-2.5hours for the hike, and grab a Coca Cola/ beer at the finish line overlooking the turquoise lakes. Head to El Mirador Restaurant when you get off the bus for amazing terrace views and a bite to eat afterwards (beside the North Car Park). The tours book up on weekends so make sure to book well in advance. Parking is available in two car parks or along the road- it gets busy so arrive an hour before your ticket time to give yourself a buffer. Bring sunscreen, an extra layer and water.
Seville
Seville has as many cultural sights to see and museums as you would like. Unmissable spots include the Real Alcazar and the Catedral. Book tickets in advance for the Alcazar, which costs €16pp for entry to the palace and vast gardens. You can pay for an official city guide to accompany you for €10 at the gates. Allow a minimum of 1hr30mins for the visit. The Cathedral is across the way and entry costs €10 or €16 for a guided tour of the cathedral and Giralda bell tower. Make sure to climb the 34 ramps up the bell tower for panoramic views of the whole city. Grab tapas in El Pinton afterwards, or a rooftop cava or cocktails in Hotel Doña Maria to watch the sun set over the cathedral. Craving something besides tapas? Head to Tropiqual for Brazilian sushi (honestly some of the best sushi I’ve had) – the El Gordito and Tropical Jungle rolls are so good, and the mojitos are amazing. Craving cheap hot healthy food? Head to IgoWalk, for build your own stir fry from €6! Fancy brunch? It has to be BrunchIt on Calle Feria- the Salty Pancakes and NYC brunch are 👌🏻 Fancy a pampering? Check out Aire Spa with traditional Arab bath experience and massage for €80 or a Wine Bath and massage for €120! And rooftop pool views as well🙌🏻 Fancy some Flamenco? Head to Madrugeira del Mai in Macarena on a Friday or Saturday to watch up-and-coming Flamenco performers, accompanied by a bottle of wine and 2 tapas per person for €23 💃🏾 Booking recommended – click here to contact Maria. Unmissable in Seville is the Plaza de España and Parque Maria Luisa. Check out the Rick Steve’s walking tour here or book a free walking tour or cycling tour online here. We stayed at this simple AirBnb for €400 for 6 night (€33 each a night), a little away from the major sights (20mins walk) but in the bustling district of Macarena, filled with bars and restaurants (and cheaper to stay in). If you’re in Macarena, be sure to check out Iglesia de San Luis de Los Franceses , one of the most lavish and adorned churches I’ve ever seen.
If you have time, head to Cadiz (seaside) or Córdoba (cultural city) for a day trip or over night.
Fly in and out of Seville or Malaga with Ryanair from €10.
If you do this trip or have been to Andalucia, let me know your highlights below✨
Seville self-guided walking tour itinerary:
- Catedral de Sevilla & Giralda
- Puerta del Perdon
- Avenguida de la Constitucion
- Archives, Plaza del Triunfo
- Alcazar & Plaza de Las Banderas
- Barrio Santa Cruz
- Calle Agua
- Plaza de Santa Cruz
- Casa de Murrilo
- The Kissing Lanes
- Plaza de Doña Elvira
(Accompanying Rick Steves Audio guide and map here).
