This region of Spain is an amazing destination to explore with ancient cities, scenic towns, beaches and a beautiful coastline.
Although you can do city breaks to popular locations like Malaga and Seville, it is recommend to try to see as much of the Andalusia as possible and road trips here are amongst some of the most scenic in the world.
Check out our top tips for exploring Andalusia with top tips for where to go and how to get around.
When to Visit
Although Andalusia is a year round destination, summer is the most popular time to visit with foreign tourists. But from June to August the heat can be intense and also prices for hotels really high.
Some parts of Andalusia are located lower on the map than North Africa. This means the winters here are pretty mild. You can practically ski in the snow or swim on the ocean here all on the same day!
How to Get Around
You can travel by public transport - bus or train, or for flexibility it is recommended to rent a car.
Tips for Renting a Car
Malaga is also one of the best places to start an Andalusia road trip and one of the most popular options is renting a car here. If you want to rent a car Malaga there are lots of different options available and prices are very affordable.
When searching online you can find cheap prices on the car rentals and can either pick up at Malaga Airport or Maria Zambrano Malaga Train Station (RENFE) on arrival. Some companies will deliver a car to your accommodation.
The earlier you book the cheaper the price generally is, and if you check all information before confirming you will avoid any surprises.
Prices usually include:
- Zero excess and unlimited mileage
- Free additional driver
- Child seats for free
- 24/7 roadside assistance perfect for peace of mind especially if you are driving abroad for the first time
- Insurance
- Fair fuel policy, return with same amount
You have a choice of cars, from EV's to small and fast sports models or larger saloons which are perfect if you are travelling with your family.
By car it is very easy to travel and see all the main cities and tourism hotspots. The roads in Andalusia are very modern and also much more relaxed compared to driving in places like Madrid and Barcelona.
Some car rental companies also have offices throughout the Andalusia and the Costa del Sol, this is ideal if you are planning to drive to take in all the local attractions and are departing or flying out of a different destination.
Andalusia's Top Attractions
If you are looking to discover the highlights of Andalusia here are some places to add to your itinerary.
1. Málaga
Málaga is one of the most visited destinations in Spain attracting millions of tourists annually. The main attraction is the weather, lifestyle and beaches.
Malaga is quite an exclusive destination but there are lots of ways to visit on a budget and enjoy the main attractions. Malaga is famous for being the birthplace of artist and sculpturist Pablo Picasso, and it is well worth visiting the museum in his honour.
Malaga is also conveniently located near many of the other popular destinations in Andalucia, like the cities of Granada, Ronda, Cordoba, and Seville.
2. Seville
Stylish Seville is the largest city in Andalusia with a population of around 680,000 people.
The architecture and streets are very Instagramable, and some of the best attractions to see include the Alcazar of Seville, Cathedral & La Giralda, Plaza de España, Barrio Santa Cruz and Torre Giralda.
While in Seville take the opportunity to see flamenco dancers performing their great dancing styles. You'll likely see street performances but also shows can be booked throughout the city.
3. Granada
Granada is one of the most underrated towns to visit in Spain with a really special atmosphere.
There are stunning Moorish palaces, ancient cobbled streets, picturesque views and the undoubted highlight - the Alhambra.
Granada has a romantic grandeur despite and visiting the Alhambra is one of the highlights. You'll see amazing fountains, scenic tiled floors and beautiful domed roofs.
This town is a very romantic destination and there are lots of hidden gems to explore in Granada.
4. Cádiz
Cádiz is really old port city with beaches and attractions.
Some places not to miss include the Torre Tavira observation tower,, which was traditionally used for spotting ships. On the waterfront is the domed, 18th-century Cádiz Cathedral, featuring baroque and neoclassical elements.
Wandering around the historic old town on foot is a great way to soak up the local culture whilst in summer there are so many beautiful beaches to enjoy.
5. Córdoba
Córdoba is like walking in the past with its old colonial building and cobbled streets. Add this to the high quality food and drink, not forgetting the beautiful landscape, that make Córdoba a complete tourist destination worth a visit.
Popular things to do in Cordiba include wandering the streets which are very photogenic, a tour of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, walking over the Roman Bridge of Córdoba for skyline pictures of the city and visiting the beautiful gardens at the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs.
6. Sierra Nevada National Park
The Sierra Nevada National Park is the largest National Park in Spain, and it is also one of the most spectacular. It is located near Granada and Almeria and is the second highest mountain range in Europe after the Alps. There are over 20 peaks that reach more than 3,000 metres in height.
The landscape is dramatic with rivers, glacial lakes and gorges. The park is home to the Spanish ibex, wild boars, wildcats, badgers and a whole range of birds, from red-legged partridge and quail to kestrels and eagle owls. There are more than 2,000 species of flora to see, many of which are sadly in danger of extinction.
There are plenty of opportunities for bird watching and hiking. Paragliding is another possibility and in winter there is skiing. It’s a versatile park.
Other Places to Consider
If you have more time to explore this region these are some more popular places you could stop off to see:
- Jerez de la Frontera
- Ronda
- Almería
- Huelva
Plan a Trip to Andalusia
Andalusia really is one of the best regions to discover in Europe with famous cities like Seville, Malaga, Cordoba and Grenada and unmissable attractions like the Alhambra Palace. Plan a road trip or search Spain tours and go explore it for yourself.
