Visiting Andalusia: 6 Must-See Places Not to Miss

Nestled in the south of Spain, Andalusia is an essential autonomous community of the country. Visiting Andalusia means taking the time to enjoy and appreciate an authentic culture influenced by its diverse historical roots.

Let yourself be enchanted by the Andalusian way of life from Seville to Granada, passing through Cordoba. I’ll share my numerous favorites and tips for a getaway under the sun.

Malaga

Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is an excellent starting point for exploring Andalusia. Many airlines operate regular flights from France. As a trendy seaside resort in southern Spain, it offers a delightful atmosphere. Its historic center blends modernity and classic architecture.

Start your journey at the Alcazaba, perched on the heights of the city. This palace served a dual purpose: as a residence for Muslim governors and a fortress to defend the city from Catholics. You can still feel Arabian influence by observing the various details.

Due to its location, it offers a view of the port, the bullring, and the cathedral below.

Malaga is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Near Plaza Uncibay, you’ll find many tapas bars filled with young Spaniards wandering throughout the night.

Ronda

Just 1.5 hours from Malaga, the stunning Ronda stands atop a mountain. The famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) is the reason for its reputation in the country. This bridge spans the valley and separates the old and new towns above the Tajo gorge. To enjoy a unique view and take photos, there’s a steep pathway that will lead you down to face the bridge and its waterfall.

Speaking of breathtaking panoramas, numerous viewpoints are scattered along the cliffs with a 180-degree view of the Andalusian countryside. For the more adventurous, there’s even a balcony suspended over the void to enjoy the surrounding valley.

Next, I recommend stopping at a bodega near Plaza Duquesta de Parcent to taste one of their typical dishes: salmorejo (a cousin of gazpacho). It is served cold with shavings of ham and hard-boiled eggs. It’s one of my favorite Andalusian specialties during my travels in the region.

Granada

Granada is an extraordinary city where the scents of jasmine and eastern spices intertwine. The fragrance in the streets is intoxicating and follows you throughout your stroll through various alleys.

The Arabian influence can also be felt in every corner of the city.

The picturesque Albayzín district exemplifies this, with its white houses and shops organized like souks. From the viewpoint of San Nicolas, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Alhambra palace and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains.

The Alhambra is the city’s historical monument designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s no coincidence that it is the most visited monument in Spain and a symbol of Islamic architecture. Its blooming gardens and Muslim-influenced palace are gems not to be missed.

A small tip: book your tickets for the Alhambra in advance; visitor numbers are limited so everyone can enjoy their visit.

Granada is one of the few cities where some bars offer free tapas with any drink ordered. A great deal for budget travelers that allows you to taste various specialties like tabbouleh or calamari fritters.

Seville

Visiting Andalusia also means discovering its capital: Seville. Wandering through this city for a few days was a delightful experience for me. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway with friends, family, or as a couple.

Seville boasts a unique historical heritage with the Cathedral of Saint Mary, where Christopher Columbus rests, the Giralda, the Alcazar, and its flamenco shows.

The iconic site to see is the Plaza de España, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most stunning places I’ve visited. Shaped like a semicircle, its architecture is magnificent with its many canals. The plaza even served as the main setting for a scene in Episode II of Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

It’s not alone in having its moment of glory on screen; the Alcazar gardens also appear in Season 5 of Game of Thrones in the land of Dorne.

If you plan to visit in spring, don’t miss Holy Week in April. Seven days of celebrations feature numerous festivities and processions organized by the city and brotherhoods. To witness this unique spectacle, book your accommodations quickly, as they fill up fast with tourists and worshippers.

Cadiz

To escape the sweltering heat of the cities, retreating to seaside Cadiz is ideal. In fact, it can reach up to 35 degrees in the height of summer in Seville, making a search for some coolness necessary.

I found this seaside resort dynamic and pleasant to visit. There’s a holiday vibe due to the proximity of the beach and the opportunity for swimming. It also boasts cultural sites with its cathedral, Roman theater, and the San Sebastian Castle.

After exploring many cities, it’s a refreshing break by the sea that feels great, just 1.5 hours from Seville.

Cordoba

I haven’t had the chance to visit Cordoba, but I know it’s part of the iconic Golden Triangle along with Granada and Seville in Andalusia.

Multiple Christian, Jewish, and Muslim peoples have shaped its streets and its 2000-year-old history. Today, remnants still remain that are true architectural gems. Start by soaking in the local atmosphere by wandering through the Jewish quarter among its flowering white houses and many fountains. Then continue your exploration in the legendary Mosque-Cathedral, the synagogue, or the alcazar.

Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of the city while sipping sangria just 40 minutes by train from Seville.

Practical Tips for Visiting Andalusia:

• Andalusia is a large region, and renting a car is highly recommended for your getaway.
• The ideal duration for visiting Andalusia is a minimum of 4-5 days.
• The best time for a road trip is in spring or during the shoulder season when temperatures are still pleasant without being oppressive.
• A Mediterranean climate prevails in southern Spain, providing very sunny weather year-round.