Andalusia is my love! Sunny, tasty, beautiful, it will not leave anyone indifferent. There are beautiful authentic cities, and the sea behind which sultry Africa is hidden, and frantic flamenco dancing, and endless tapas in bars.
In the new material, I share my impressions and tips about the colorful southern region of Spain - Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz and Granada - everything worth seeing in Andalusia, in seven days of an intensive route.
The first day. Alcazar of Seville and flamenco.
Morning. Getting to know Andalusia is definitely worth starting from the capital of the region - Seville. Like other cities in Andalusia, Seville was once part of Arab Spain, which left its mark on the local architecture. It was under the influence of the Islamic Arabs that the local style, Mudejar, was formed, in which elements of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance art were intertwined. Especially characteristic of this style are luxurious carved arches, colored ceramic mosaics and richly decorated ceilings.
An example of the Mudejar style in Seville is the Alcazar of Seville - the royal residence of the Spanish kings, from which it is worth starting your acquaintance with Seville. The first buildings on the territory of the palace date back to the Roman period, then an early Christian basilica was located here. In the 8th century, when Andalusia was conquered by the Arabs, the first fortress was built here, which successfully withstood the attack of the Vikings, which is why they began to call it Alcazar - from Arabic “fortress”. The Alcazar flourished in the 13th century, when a representative office of the Cordoba Caliphate was established here.
After the Reconquista and the conquest of Andalusia by Catholics, the Alcazar began to acquire Gothic features in architectural terms, and later elements of the Renaissance appeared here. However, the features characteristic of Islamic architecture have been preserved to this day, when the main buildings were located around the perimeter of the courtyard. The courtyard, which is called the Maiden's Courtyard, is especially beautiful. According to legend, one hundred of the most beautiful Christian virgins languished here, intended as a gift to the Caliph of Cordoba.
To save time standing in line, be sure to buy a ticket to the Alcazar online on the website (ticket price - 11.50 euros + 5 euros for the audio guide - be sure to take it, it’s very interesting to listen to everything). Tickets are sold for a specific date and time; when approaching the Alcazar, go to a separate queue for those who already have tickets. It is not necessary to print tickets; you can show a copy from the post office.
Day. There are two other notable buildings near the Alcazar. Directly opposite is a grandiose structure that you won't miss: Granada Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe. In addition to paintings by Velazquez and Goya, the remains of Christopher Columbus are kept here, however, it is not known for certain whether they really belong to the great navigator, because they were transported several times between continents and countries, so everything could have gotten mixed up.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the Giralda Tower, built in the 12th century during the reign of Muslims in the Pyrenees, and at that time it was the minaret of the Seville Mosque. After the conquest of Andalusia by Catholics, the mosque was rebuilt into a cathedral, and the tower was used as a bell tower. In the 16th century, the tower was rebuilt in the fashionable Renaissance style of the time, and a bronze figure was placed at the top, which began to serve as a weather vane. Hence the name of the tower - La Hiralda - Spanish for “weather vane”.
After lunch, head to the nearby Santa Cruz neighborhood. This is a former Jewish quarter, where local Jews settled after the Reconquista. It is especially pleasant here to stroll along the narrow streets, looking for elegant shops and delicious tapas bars.
Evening. When in Seville, you should definitely go to flamenco, even if it is a traditional tourist attraction. The shows take place in the evening and it is better to buy tickets in advance. Locals recommend going to flamenco either at Casa de la Memoria (Calle Una 6) or d Bar La Anselma (Calle Pages del Corro).
Second day. Art Deco Seville and the Triana Quarter.
Morning. We start the day in the central part of the city with a cup of aromatic chocolate and churros - traditional Spanish pastries eaten by locals for breakfast - at Bar El Commercio (Calle Lineros 9). Winding through the streets of the medieval center, and then along Avenue de La Constitucion, we go to the intersection of San Fernando Street, where on the corner rises a beautiful building made in the Art Deco style - Hotel Alfonso XIII, named after the Spanish king who ruled the country at the beginning of the 20th century when this hotel was built. It’s incredibly beautiful inside, so be sure to come in (they’ll let you in, don’t worry).
Next to the hotel is the building of the University of Seville, which at one time was the royal tobacco factory, where the famous Carmen, the heroine of the novel of the same name by Prosper Merimee and the opera by Georges Bizet, worked. The university hosts a free campus tour every day, which includes information about the history of the factory. The tour starts at 11.30, the meeting point is easy to find by following the signs at the entrance to the university.
Day. From the university building we go to the left towards the park, where the main Art Deco pearl of Seville is hidden - Plaza de España. At the beginning of the 20th century, Seville experienced a new architectural rebirth in connection with the Spanish-American exhibition that took place here, on the eve of which many iconic buildings appeared in the city, including Plaza de España - an urban ensemble in the neo-Mudejar style (the same old Mudejar style mixed with art deco).
Plaza de España
The beauty of this ensemble is the alcove niches, lined with ceramic tiles and dedicated to certain provinces of Spain. Many films were filmed here in the square, including Lawrence of Arabia and even the second episode of Star Wars.
The second half we get acquainted with the fishing district of Seville - Triana - which can be reached by crossing one of the bridges over the Guadalquivir River. Triana is a former area of sailors and potters. In the Middle Ages, the main port in Seville was located here, so sailors settled nearby. This area was also considered a gypsy area, although I didn’t meet them.
There is one curious legend associated with the area, which I had never heard of until I went for a walk around Triana and read about it. A native of these places was a certain Juan Rodriguez Bermejo, who was a sailor on watch on the ship "Pinta" of the well-known Christopher Columbus in 1492. According to some chronicles, it was he who was the first to see the land of America and, according to the original conditions, was to receive 10 thousand gold pieces - a reward promised by the royal couple of Spain to the one who would be the first to see new lands across the Atlantic Ocean. However, either greed, or some other intentions prompted Columbus to attribute the land he saw to himself: supposedly he saw the edge on the horizon even earlier, but did not dare to claim what he saw as land, since he was not completely sure of it.
Columbus, as we know, did not end his life very well, and nothing is known for certain about the further fate of this sailor Juan. But in memory of the place of his birth, they began to call him Rodrigo de Triana, and also erected a monument to him.
Must-see places in the area include the beautiful Iglesia de Santa Ana church and the Triana market, where you can also find delicious food.
To walk around Triana (and Seville in general), you can use the audio guide Azbo Audio Tour - the stories are extremely interesting, and the application itself is convenient to use (just don’t forget to download the audio guide in advance if you have wi-fi).
Evening. Head back to the center and try one of Seville's wonderful tapas bars, for the local cuisine is as beautiful as the architecture. Particularly good are Bar Coloniales (Plaza Christo de Burgos), Bar La Bodega (Plaza de la Alfaifa) and Bar el Rinconcillo (Calle Gerona).
Day three. We are going to the sea in Cadiz.
Morning. We take the train at Seville's Santa Justa station (the ticket costs 12.85 euros, you should buy it in advance on the Renfe website) and go south to the city of Cadiz, which claims to be the oldest city in Western Europe, having been founded back in 1100 BC era by the Phoenicians.
Tourists rarely get to Cadiz. The exception is February, when the city hosts the famous “singing” carnival. For two weeks, festivities take place on the streets of the city, locals and visitors dress in extravagant costumes. As part of the carnival, there is a singing competition in which amateur groups - chirigotas - take part, which mainly consist of men dressed in specific costumes and singing satirical songs.
The main architectural value of Cadiz is the central cathedral of the city, where the musician Manuel de Galla and the writer José Maria Peman are buried. From the cathedral, go to the embankment, where in good weather local youth will bask on the stone wall.
The promenade will lead you to the San Sebastian Fortress. In ancient times, when the Romans ruled here, on the site of the fortress there was a temple of Chronos, the father of Zeus, and after the conquest of Andalusia by the Arabs, a full-fledged fortress with a lighthouse was built in its place.
Day. From San Sebastian, turn back into the city and you will find yourself in the La Vina quarter, so named because of the numerous wine cellars that were located here. During the carnival, this is where the chirigotas stop and entertain the crowd with their songs.
Through the interlacing streets of the center we go to the upper part of the city to Plaza de España. It is, of course, not as elegant as the Seville square of the same name, but with a majestic column, white buildings and palm trees it looks very nice.
After walking along the port, go down again to the El Populo area, which is located on the left side of the cathedral. This is the oldest district of the city, where Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs lived in different centuries. You can also enjoy a delicious seafood meal here before catching the evening train back to Seville.
Day four. Christian-Muslim shrines of Cordoba.
Morning. Again With We board the train at Seville's Santa Justa station and head to neighboring Cordoba. It is also worth buying a ticket in advance online on the website local train lines Renfe, one way it will cost you 10.85 euros. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
The first thing to do in Cordoba, of course, is to head to the Mezquita, the once majestic mosque of the Cordoba Caliphate. During the Middle Ages, the Mezquita was the largest mosque in the world, second only to the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus.
In 1236, after the first successful wave of the Reconquista (the so-called process of liberation of Spain from the Arabs that lasted for several centuries), the Mezquita was consecrated and turned into a Catholic church, including changes to the architectural appearance of the building. The building was especially rebuilt in the 16th century during the reign of Charles V, when a cathedral nave appeared, made in the then fashionable Renaissance style. Fun fact: Charles V, upon seeing the renovated cathedral, exclaimed: “You have destroyed something great and built something completely ordinary instead.” Although you can’t call it an ordinary Mezquita.
Day. Then head through the colorful tourist street Calles los Dianes to the second iconic attraction of Cordoba - the Alcazar of the Christian Kings, also known as the Alcazar of Cordoba. Of course, this is also the former residence of Arab rulers, which, like other fortress-palaces, became the residence of Spanish kings after the reconquista.
Unlike the Alcazar of Seville, this royal residence has been preserved to a lesser extent and is more of a stone fortress than a full-fledged interior. But the adjacent garden is very good, with a beautiful alley of Spanish kings.
Alcazar of the Christian Kings, Cordoba
From the Alcazar it is convenient to walk along the river embankment to the Roman bridge, which was built after the famous Battle of Munda in 45 BC. This was the last battle in which Gaius Julius Caesar participated, after which he returned to Rome and single-handedly ruled the Roman Republic as a dictator.
From the bridge, continue to the left along the white streets of Cordoba, in the arches of which hide the inner courtyards so characteristic of Andalusia, and Cordoba in particular, decorated with various architectural elements, be it columns, a fountain, a pond or benches decorated with ceramics. Patios began to appear in the Middle Ages for an aesthetic purpose - to create an atmosphere of protection from external threats, which was especially valued in those days (remember - the Arab conquest, the Reconquista and all that), to inspire feelings of calm, tranquility, romanticism, comfort and bliss.
Evening. No tapas bars this time. Head to the traditional restaurant Bodegas Campos (Calle Lineros, 32) to sample Andalusian cuisine. And snacks, and meat, and fish, and desserts - everything is delicious there.
Day five. Granada, Granada, my Granada.
Morning. We take the Alsa bus (we buy a ticket in advance on the website, it costs about 15 euros, the journey takes up to three hours) and go to Granada, which the Soviet poet Mikhail Svetlov wrote about (“He sang, looking around his native land: “Grenada, Grenada, Grenada my!).
Day. After leaving your things at the hotel and having a little refreshment at any local restaurant, go to the Alhambra - an architectural and park ensemble that was the main residence of the rulers of the Nasrid dynasty, which ruled the Emirate of Granada here until the end of the 15th century. The Alhambra is not so easy to get to because of its insane popularity among tourists. You need to take care of purchasing tickets on the official website much in advance (almost a month in advance) (a general ticket, the price of which includes both the Nasrid Palace and the Generalife, will cost 14 euros). If you're late with your purchase, don't rush to spend money on insanely expensive guided tours: instead, you can buy a Granada Card for 37 euros, with which you can still enter Granada Cathedral, the Royal Chapel and other attractions for free. Please note that when purchasing this card you will need to indicate the time of your visit to the Nasrid Palace and be there strictly by this time.
Alhambra, Court of the Lions
Allow at least three hours for your visit to see the Nasrid Palace, which is luxurious in its architectural decoration, and the Alcazabu citadel, which offers grandiose views of the surrounding areas of Granada, and the former residence of the emirs of Geniralife.
After exploring the Alhambra, head downstairs and head into the city center to reach the Granada Cathedral, a majestic building built in the Renaissance style, before six o'clock in the evening (with the Granada Card, admission will be free, and you will also be given an audio guide). The cathedral is incredibly beautiful, and it was painted by El Greco and Jose de Ribera. Pay special attention to the niches located around the perimeter of the temple, each of which is notable for either paintings or certain Christian attributes.
Don't miss the royal chapel adjacent to the cathedral, where some of the most revered Spanish rulers, Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, are buried. This dynastic marriage between the daughter of King Juan II of Castile and the ruler of Aragon, Ferdinand, marked the beginning of the unification of Spain into a single state. Under Isabella and Ferdinand, the Reconquista ended with the triumph of Spanish military forces and the last stronghold of Arab power on Iberian soil, Granada, fell. And it was this royal couple who patronized Columbus’s voyage, thereby opening the way for Spain to explore lands in the New World.
Evening. Don’t go far from the cathedral - after crossing the central Calle Gran via De Collon you will find yourself on a small street, Calle Cetti Meriem, teeming with bars, in one of which you can spend a pleasant evening (for example, you can visit Bar la Rivera).
Day six. In the footsteps of the Arabs in Granada.
Morning. After a delicious breakfast (those who cannot live a day without churros can go to Churrería Alhambra at Plaza de Bib-Rambla, 27, and for those who miss traditional hipster breakfasts, I advise you to go to Cafe Baraka at Calle San Jerónimo, 24 ) we go to get acquainted with another beautiful building from the reign of the Arab Nasrids - Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo. Previously, it was one of the emir's palaces, and now it is a museum, where various exhibitions are periodically held.
Day. Afterwards we go for a leisurely walk to the Arab quarter of Albaicin. The hill on which the area is located was inhabited during the Roman rule in Andalusia, but it flourished during the reign of the Arabs, when Albaicin became a quarter of merchants and craftsmen.
Albaicin
By the way, the area did not get its name because of the traders and artisans who inhabited it. Translated from Arabic, al-bayyāzīn means “falconry area,” because in ancient times there was a forest nearby (part of it is now preserved as the Alhambra Forest), where the locals loved to hunt.
While walking around the area, do not miss the Mirador de San Cristobal, which offers a beautiful view of the Alhambra, the Plaza Larga, where on weekends there is always a market where they sell all sorts of things, the beautiful local mosque Mezquita Mayor de Granada.
Evening. Don't be in a hurry to leave Albaicin. A mandatory part of the program is watching the sunset on the Mirador San Nicolas square, after which you can go to one of the local restaurants with Arabic cuisine.
Day seven. Departure.
A separate day to calmly get ready, fly to Barcelona or Madrid, where there will still be half a day left for shopping, so that you can fly to Russia in the evening or in the morning the next day.
Southern Spain (Andalusia and Murcia) is the most valuable keeper of unique cultural monuments, Moorish roots and traditions that cannot be found in the rest of Spain. The southern regions of Spain are not the same - some got fertile soils, sun and the love of tourists, others got dry, poor land and a constant struggle for life.
Andalusia is an autonomous community in Spain and a region that is located on the southernmost part of the Iberian Peninsula. It consists of 8 provinces: Almeria, Cordoba, Cadiz, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Huelva and Jaén.
Photo: Beautiful Andalusia Briefly about the region
Andalusia is a place with a rich history, in which the main role was played by the Moors (Arabs) and Muslim Spain - Al-Andalus.
Everything you think and imagine about Spain is actually about Andalusia. Passionate flamenco dance, juicy fruits, exciting bullfighting, the Tabernas desert, the Sierra Nevada ski resort, the underground labyrinths of Nerja with huge caves, ancient stone bridges in Ronda and the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea in Tarifa - that's all about her. These are the Moorish palaces of Alhambra and Antequera, the snow-white beaches of Almuñécar and the mango plantations of Motril.
In the last days of the week of February, all life in the city of Cadiz (Cádiz) is paralyzed - a carnival begins with songs, masquerades and costumed performances. Future participants begin to think about decorations long before the start.
Photo: Carnival in Cadiz In April, the best Spanish artisans come to Sevilla for a spring fair, the traditions of which date back to the 13th century. All week long the fair has fun day and night. The start is traditionally scheduled for April 18.
Every even year, for a whole month in September, Seville turns into an endless dancing city - the famous flamenco festival begins. Everything around breathes only in this rhythm.
In November, there is a new reason to get together - the olive festival begins in the city of Baena.
And there are also a huge number of religious holidays, which local residents celebrate on a grand scale.
So come to Andalusia any month - it will be fun and interesting!
Geographical differences
Photo: Spanish Flamenco Andalusia is washed by many waters - the Atlantic Ocean, the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea and has the warmest climate on the entire European continent. The sea and climate were reflected in the culture, cuisine and development of the region in history and modernity as a resort.
How to get there and navigate around the place
Photo: Map of Andalusia Andalusia has an international airport in Malaga. Aeroflot operates direct flights from Moscow. The average ticket price is 375 euros. Detailed information on the website www.aeroflot.ru. From St. Petersburg there are only connecting flights either through Europe or through Moscow. Cost from 280 euros.
There are options with transfers to Seville Airport, but flights are usually inconvenient, and the average cost is from 520 euros per person.
There are car rental companies right next to Malaga airport. If you book a car in advance, the rental cost is 20-30 euros per day. When constantly moving from place to place, this is perhaps the most optimal option in terms of price/comfort/quality ratio.
Why go
If you want to meet a gypsy with a guitar, fiery flamenco dancers, brilliant bullfighters and experience a real siesta, then in Andalusia you will see it all in the original. Among the most spectacular events that follow one another are the mournful Good Friday processions and vibrant flamenco festivals.
When to go
The best time is largely determined by the temperature - fresh April with fairs, pleasant May and the end of September, when the heat subsides and the crowds of tourists thin out.
Cultural and historical differences
Andalusia is a treasury of Moorish heritage that captivates with its grace and scope. Andalusia is the homeland of bullfighting, and a land where flamenco is the basis of festival culture, and the siesta has not sunk into oblivion. It is also the birthplace of Picasso, Velazquez and Murillo, whose paintings decorate temples, palaces and museums.
What to see in Andalusia
Photo: Beautiful Malaga We will tell you a brief travel plan for the cities of Andalusia, based on our experience and, according to the reviews of experienced tourists, on how to spend two unforgettable weeks in the Spanish region itself:
Malaga
- The old Alcazaba fortress, from whose centuries-old walls offers breathtaking views of the city and port.
- In the very center stands, of course, the cathedral, built in the Baroque style. In Spain they like to take a long time to build - and this cathedral took a hundred years to build, but was never completed. One tower and part of the facade are missing. But this only adds to its charm.
- The long promenade, Farola Alley, is decorated with a lighthouse - La Farola.
- The Picasso Museum in the 16th-century Buenavista Palace, whose walls are decorated with 285 paintings by Pablo.
- The Bishop's Palace with an ornate system of passages, stairs and galleries.
- On a hot afternoon, we recommend taking refuge from the heat in the Alonso Gardens, which have relaxation areas and fragrant rose gardens.
- Seaport – huge house-ships regularly come here as part of numerous cruises.
You can see the beauty of Malaga in this video:
Nerja
- Huge caves with hanging stalactites from the ceiling and huge stalagmites from the floor. A long route leads from hall to hall, each of which is illuminated in an original way.
- Nearby there is one of the many well-preserved ancient Roman aqueducts - Aguila.
- There is a wonderful view of the sea from the so-called Balcony of Europe. In good weather, the African coast can be seen without binoculars.
- After a busy excursion program, the ideal ending would be to plunge into the Mediterranean Sea. There are wonderful beaches here.
You can watch the beauty and sights of Nerja in the video:
Almuñécar
- Snow-white beaches, and the San Cristobal rock juts out into the sea. Climbing the stone steps, you find yourself at the very top.
- The Castle of San Miguel is part of the remnants of the Arab heritage on the Iberian Peninsula.
Watch a beautiful video about Almuñecar:
Salobreña
- A small Arab town clinging to a rock. From here you have a wonderful view of all the nearby plains.
- The streets here are so narrow that you need to be a fairly experienced driver in order not to catch anything anywhere. For pedestrians, some houses have special recesses that you need to jump into if a car is driving. You can only turn around at the top. Colorful facades, ornate doors and balconies compensate for the effort expended.
- At the top stands the harsh but beautiful fortress of Castilo de Salobrena.
Watch the beautiful scenery in this video:
Almeria
- Alcazaba Fortress - built in the 10th century by Arab conquerors, the first in a series of dozens on the coast.
- The natural park of Cabo da Gata has perfectly clean beaches, and at the bottom lies such riches as ancient Roman amphorae, reefs and even a sunken ship of the Spanish fleet. We recommend traveling around its vast territory by bicycle. They are available for rent.
All the beauty of Almeria can be seen in this video:
Granada
- The Alhambra is the pearl of Granada. A magnificent palace with elaborate gardens, arches and statues. Each detail has its own knowledge and function. When you get here, you feel like you are in a real Arabian fairy tale.
- The cathedral is majestic and pompous, but the interior decoration is richer than the external facade. Construction lasted almost 200 years, and therefore the Baroque and Herreresco styles characteristic of Spain were mixed here.
- The Generalife Gardens are a luxurious Moorish garden, best preserved in Granada.
- The Park of Sciences is a huge interactive museum, where several exhibitions are held simultaneously in many halls.
- Mount Sacromonte, where the dwellings look like well-appointed caves dug by Muslims and Jews once expelled from the city. Now there is a large diaspora of gypsies living there, who put on entire shows for tourists.
This video will not leave you indifferent and will inspire you to travel:
Cordoba
A unique combination of three cultures: Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Traces are everywhere:
- Mezquita - Cathedral Mosque, one of the 12 architectural wonders of Spain.
- Medina Al-Sahara is an Arab palace city, the territory of which is still being excavated.
- The Jewish Quarter with a medieval synagogue and narrow ancient streets, the most famous of which is Calleja de las Flores.
- The Alcazar of Cordoba was used for 300 years for the tribunals of the Spanish Inquisition. Later Napoleon's troops were quartered there in 1810. Until 1931 it served as a prison.
- Calahorra Tower and Roman Bridge is the oldest tower in the city, made in the shape of a horseshoe.
- The Viana Palace is a wonderful example of the life of wealthy aristocrats. Inside there are 12 courtyards with fountains, flowers and gardens. Inside, the real interiors of the former owners are presented.
The unique beauty of Cordoba is simply mesmerizing, you can watch it in the video:
Seville
- Alcazar is a royal residence. Over many centuries it was rebuilt and completed many times. Parts from all buildings, dating back to the first Moorish buildings, have been preserved. We recommend planning a whole day to explore – there is a lot of interesting things to see here, and in the evening there are open-air concerts.
- The cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Plaza de España is majestic and unlike any other European square.
- Maestransa is a bullfighting arena, the oldest and most famous in existence.
- Monastery of St. Mary de las Cuevas - located on an island among a beautiful park.
- And many, many churches and ancient houses in the old town - the main street is Sierpes.
The landscapes and beauty of Seville can be seen in this video:
Cadiz
- The central market, with stalls bursting with seafood.
- The cathedral in the city center, built in the Rococo and Baroque styles. There is an observation deck.
- Tower of Tavira - used as a watchtower in the Middle Ages. Inside there is a miracle of engineering - a camera obscura, thanks to which projected views of Cadiz appear on the screen every 30 minutes.
- Old city in Arabic style.
- Castle San Sebastian on an island in the ocean is a powerful fort with thick walls. Nowadays works of contemporary Andalusian artists are exhibited here.
You can see Cadiz in the video:
Tarifa is a small Arab town, a favorite place for windsurfers due to its long beach and good winds. The southernmost part of Europe. A unique place where you can stand on a narrow isthmus between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Photo: Arab town of Tarifa Continue along the scenic road past wind farms to the Spanish town of La Linea, which borders... Great Britain! It is here that the small peninsula of Gibraltar - called the Rock - is over which Spain and Great Britain have been engaged in diplomatic disputes for many years. The border runs right along the runway - during takeoff and landing, pedestrians patiently wait for the border to open. Gibraltar is the only place where monkeys live in the wild.
Gibraltar is small, but very colorful - everything is in British style.
Photo: Gibraltar Then along the sea to the paradise of those who love to have fun from night to morning - Marbella. In addition to natural parks and historical attractions, the most famous bars and nightclubs are located here, attracting partygoers from all over the world.
The most expensive and beautiful beach is Puerto Banus, where luxury yachts and boats dock. And on the shore stands the gift of Zurab Tsereteli - the Victory Monument.
Photo: Puerto Banus Beach And back to Malaga - complete the trip with a walk around the city and a visit to the amusement park.
Main cities and attractions
Photo: Roman Bridge in Cordoba It seems that Andalusia is one big UNESCO monument. The most impressive architecture and interesting sights are found in the main cities:
- Seville is the capital of Andalusia and the land of continuous festivals. The main attraction is the Alcazar Palace with a marvelous mixture of Moorish and European styles, the Giralda bell tower (UNESCO), the grandiose Cathedral (UNESCO);
- Granada is a bright, inviting city in the mountains, home to the Moorish fortress of the Alhambra (UNESCO) and the most ancient Moorish gardens of the Generalife (UNESCO). There is snow on the peaks all year round, but there is no sea here;
- Malaga is a large modern city, a developed resort, full of ancient monuments and the birthplace of Picasso;
- Cordoba is the former capital of Muslim Spain, and now a calm and beautiful city. The main landmark is the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral (UNESCO);
- Cadiz is the oldest city in Europe, an excellent resort and the most attractive place for climbers thanks to the Garganta del Chorro gorge;
- Ronda is an unforgettable snow-white city hanging over an abyss.
What to do in Andalusia
Photo: Bullfight in Seville During the trip you must:
- Watch real flamenco in Seville;
- Go to a bullfight in Seville;
- Drink sangria by the sea in Marbella;
- Collect shells in Tarifa, thrown out by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean;
- Wander the streets of Salobreña;
- Buy fish from the night catch at the Cadiz market;
- Feel like a real sultan in the Alhambra;
- Visit the most beautiful cathedrals and churches in Cordoba;
- Descend into the underground labyrinth in Nerja;
- See underwater wonders in Cabo de Gata Park;
- Admire Picasso's creations in Malaga;
- Sunbathe on a beautiful beach in Marbella.
- Explore the world at the Granada Science Park;
- Watch the sunrise on the coast after fiery fun in the nightclubs of Marbella.
- Visit one of the majestic cathedrals of Andalusia.
- Experience a breathtaking bullfight or visit the Maestransa bullring in Seville.
- Rent a bike and go cycling through the snow-white suburbs of Ronda.
- Get carried away by a flamenco show in the middle of the ancient streets of Cadiz, which have seen more than one generation.
- See one of Lorca's plays in the fabulous Generalife Gardens in Granada.
- Experience the thrill of the magnificent Garganta del Chorro gorge in the province of Cadiz.
- See the unique views of Gibraltar.
- See the “Andalusian horse dance” of the Royal Riding School in the small town of Jerez de la Frontera (province of Cadiz).
- Take a boat ride along the largest river in Andalusia, the Guadalquivir.
- Try gazpacho, drink sherry or a product from the Seville brewery Cruzcampo.
Shopping (What and where to buy)
Photo: Beautiful Spanish fans The most popular souvenirs and gifts from Andalusia:
- Figurines in the form of bulls and a flamenco dancer from Seville.
- Moorish style pottery from Granada.
- Fans of all shapes and colors.
- Leather goods from Cordoba.
- A bottle of local sherry.
- Fruit teas and drinks from Granada.
- Olive oil.
- Macaroons from Seville (Almendra Suprema de Estepa).
- Pork-cured chorizo sausage.
- Inlaid boxes from Granada.
The Heads and Tails program will tell you in detail about shopping in Seville in this video:
Prices
All prices in Spain are in euros. It is advisable to exchange rubles for foreign currency at home, since the exchange rate abroad will most likely be unfavorable.
The price of a cup of coffee in a cafe is about 1.5 euros.
The price of lunch is from 10 to 20 euros, there are buffet options “menu del dia” with unlimited approaches.
The price of dinner with alcohol is on average 30-45 euros.
Magnets for memory – 1 euro.
A taxi costs 8-10 euros depending on the trip.
Gasoline at gas stations costs 1.20 euros per liter. Diesel – 1 euro.
A 3-star hotel room costs 15-20 euros per day per person.
Accommodation in hostels is cheaper - on average 10 euros.
For a large group, it is more profitable to stay in a large apartment with an equipped kitchen and living area.
Products:
Milk – 0.7 euros
Bread – 0.90 euros
Chicken, 1 kg – 5.70 euros
Fish (dorada) 1 kg – 7 euros
Tomatoes – 1.22 euros
The average travel budget, taking into account transport, accommodation and food, is about 100 euros per day.
Travel plan, tours for 1-3-7 days
| Day | Morning | Dinner | Evening |
| 1 | Malaga. Alcazaba Cathedral, Cathedral | Picasso Museum, Bishop's Palace, Alonso Gardens | Seaport, lighthouse. We recommend ending the evening at the Gastroteca de Reding restaurant (Calle Ruiz Blaser, 2), where they serve excellent mushroom risotto |
| 2 | Nerja. Caves | Aguila Aqueduct, Balcony of Europe, | Relaxation on the beach. Dinner at the El Pulguilla restaurant (Calle Almte. Ferrándiz, 26) - here they can cook the freshest octopus in Galician style |
| 3 | Almuñecar. San Cristobal | Moving to Salobreña | Walk through the old town, Fortress Dinner at the local restaurant Meson Antonio (Calle Manila, 9), where, according to other tourists, they have some of the best steaks in the city |
| 4 | Almeria, Alcazaba Fortress | Cabo da Gata Natural Park afternoon | After such a busy program, we recommend trying the best tapas in the city - at the Taperia La Pinta bar (Campoverde, 20) |
| 5 | Granada. Alhambra, Cathedral, | Generalife Gardens, Mount Sacromonte | Park of Sciences |
| 6 | Cordoba. Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, Calleja de las Flores | Cordoba Alcazar, Calahorra Tower, Roman Bridge | Viana Palace Try the Spanish delicacy - Rabo de Toro soup (Ox Tail) at El Abanico restaurant (Calle Velazquez Bosco 7) |
| 7 | Archaeological Museum. Bull Museum. | Madina Az-Zahra. | Flamenco show One of the favorite dishes in Cordoba is lamb stew. Order this dish at Gongora Restaurant (Calle Conde de Torres Cabrera 4) |
| 8 | Seville. Explore the Alcazar all day | In the evening, be sure to go to the Bodeguita Romero bar (c/ Harinas, 10) and try their special dish - pringa - an Andalusian-style pork sandwich. | |
| 9 | Seville. Cathedral. Plaza de España. | Maestranza, Monastery of Saint Mary de las Cuevas. | Walk through the old town. Bullfight. Salmorejo soup at El Caminante Andaluz (Calle Jose Diaz 8) is the best way to end the day |
| 10 | Cadiz. Tavira Tower, Central Market. | Old town, San Sebastian Castle. | Cathedral and relaxation on the ocean. According to reviews, the restaurant Las Nieves (Plaza Mendizabal) serves the best squid and eggplant in honey. |
| 11 | Tariff. An isthmus between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. | Moving to Gibraltar. Walk along the main street. | Visit to the Rock. Feel the atmosphere of real seamen at The Clipper restaurant (Irish TowN, 78b Irish Town). The most delicate Beef Stroganoff is served here. |
| 12 | Marbella. Relaxation on the beach. | Walk around Puerto Banus. | Nightlife in Marbella. Before visiting the clubs, it is advisable to eat something - the meatloaves are especially good at a place called Bodega San Bernabe (Travesia Carlos Mackintosh No. 3 Local 17 | junto a la Alameda) |
| 13 | Arrival in Malaga. Roman theater. | Tivoli World is an amusement park. | We recommend ending your trip at an authentic Spanish establishment - Antigua Casa de Guardia (Alameda Principal 18), where they serve wonderful mussels. |
What and where to eat
Photo: Gazpacho People in Andalusia love and know how to cook amazingly delicious dishes that you should definitely try while traveling through this region:
- Gazpacho or salmorejo is a cold tomato soup (some additional ingredients differ).
- Any tuna dishes in the Cadiz area.
- Cordoba flamenquin is a pork fillet dish that is fried in breadcrumbs and egg.
- Alboronia – vegetable roast made from eggplant, tomato, pumpkin and pepper.
- White fish soup.
- Almond soup.
- Chargrilled sardines.
- Turkey with apples.
Meat dishes are more common in cities remote from the sea, but in coastal restaurants the choice of fish dishes is simply huge.
Best excursions according to reviews
We have collected five of the most interesting and original excursions in Andalusia:
- To the Wild West of Andalusia - a trip outside the city, where ancient stone dolmens are preserved, as well as medieval castles, hot springs and fantastic landscapes reminiscent of America.
- Three Stories of Granada is an amazing journey through time that brings together three urban legends: Jewish, Arab and royal. Only an experienced eye can see and read them on the facades of old houses, in crooked streets and luxurious gardens.
- The Alvear wine cellars nearby in Cordoba are an opportunity to learn the secrets of winemaking that result in such delicious wine. By the way, at the end of the excursion, all participants will have the opportunity to taste different varieties.
- Horseback riding around Cadiz - feel like a real conquistador on horseback while walking along the endless Atlantic Ocean.
- Gibraltar - Climb the famous Rock of Gibraltar, see hidden caves that were used during World War II, see real wild monkeys and see Africa.
Look at examples of interesting excursions in the video “In search of adventures with Mikhail Kozhukhov - Andalusia.
How do we save up to 25% on hotels?
Everything is very simple - we use a special search engine RoomGuru for 70 hotel and apartment booking services with the best price.Bonus for renting apartments 2100 rubles
Instead of hotels, you can book an apartment (on average 1.5-2 times cheaper) on AirBnB.com, a very convenient worldwide and well-known apartment rental service with a bonus of 2100 rubles upon registrationAndalusia is a region for those who want something more than just Spain. The Orange Guide is a guide for those who want something more than just a guide. The author will tell you intelligently and carefully about this southernmost and most cheerful region of the country. You'll experience extraordinary holidays and traditions, vibrant year-round extravaganzas, and friendly people. In the most authentic "nutritious" establishments you will sip excellent wine and taste the best local culinary achievements. Enjoy the unique nature, carefully transformed into national parks. The orange guide will tell you with authority that Andalusia is a land with a rich past and its main cultural monuments and architectural ensembles of past times have been preserved to this day, so let's see them...
So, with a reliable guide in your hands, consider that you have already done half the work of organizing your best holiday in Andalusia. Did you remember to buy tickets?
Third edition, corrected and expanded.
Now let's start exploring another very interesting region of Spain - Andalusia.
We suggest visiting 7 cities, in each of which you can spend 2-3 days: enjoying long walks, photographing everything around, taking a steam bath in Arabic baths, dancing to the rhythms of flamenco, tasting wine and watching bullfighting (here it is still legal, unlike from some other regions of the country).
MALAGA
It is convenient to start your journey through Andalusia from Malaga - the center of the province of the same name, a port city with a rich history. Don’t rush to travel further; dedicate at least one day to Malaga. She has something to surprise you with!
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- The Cathedral of the Incarnation (La Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación), built on the site of a mosque in the 15th century, is the visiting card of the city. From Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 to 10:00, the temple and the museum located in it can be visited for free, at other times - for €5.
- Picasso Museum, located in the building of the Buenavista Palace (XVI century). Here are 285 works by an outstanding artist who was born in Malaga. Ticket costs €5 (audio guide included).
- The Arab fortresses of Gibralfaro (XIV century) and Alcazaba (XI century), from which a beautiful view of Malaga opens. You can visit both sites with a single ticket, which costs €3.5.
- The Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful parks in Europe. For €5 here you can escape the heat and admire exotic plants. On Sundays admission is free.
- Roman amphitheater (1st century). The stage with a diameter of 31 meters and seats for spectators have been preserved; now concerts are periodically held here. Free admission.
What to try?
- fried anchovies (boquerones fritos);
- grilled sardines (espeto de sardinas);
- coffee. Locals drink it with milk or alcohol (rum, brandy, anise liqueur);
- sweet wines.
How to get to Malaga from the airport? An express bus will take you to the city center in 15 minutes, departing from Terminal 3. A ticket costs about €3, and can be bought from the driver for cash. Alternative options: take the Renfe train on line C1, which connects the airport to the center of Malaga, take a taxi or rent a car.
GRANADA
One of the most beautiful cities not only in Spain, but also in Europe as a whole, located next to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Most tourists come to see the Alhambra - a masterpiece of Moorish architecture, but there are a few more surprises in store for you! We recommend spending at least 2 days here so as not to miss anything.
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- The Alhambra is the former residence of Muslim rulers. The complex includes a citadel, several palaces, the summer residence of the Generalife emirs and parks. A general ticket costs €14 and allows you to visit all major sites. The number of guests is limited, so during the season we recommend purchasing tickets in advance online or at any branch of the Bank of Spain.
- The cathedral, built in the 15th century on the site of a mosque. The chapel located nearby contains the remains of Columbus' patroness, Isabella of Castile, and Ferdinand of Aragon, who recaptured Granada from the Moors. Ticket costs €5 (audio guide included). On Sunday from 15:00 to 18:00 admission is free, advance reservation through the website is required.
- The historic Albaicin district is worth spending half a day exploring. It has changed little since the reign of the Moors, except that restaurants and shops have been added to the delight of tourists.
- Monastery of St. Jerome. Built by the Spaniards immediately after the return of Granada. The main attraction is the altar, decorated with relief images. Entrance costs €4.
- Observation deck St. Nicolas, overlooking the city and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada. It's best to come here at sunset to enjoy the spectacle while slowly sipping sangria.
What to try?
- a variety of tapas;
- herbal teas with Moroccan spices;
- braised oxtails (rabo di toro).
How to get to Granada from Malaga? By bus (one and a half to two hours, about €12), train with a transfer in Antequera (from 3 hours, about €20) or car (about one and a half hours).
CORDOVA
This city, carefully preserving the heritage of representatives of many cultures, stands on the Guadalquivir River, in the heart of Andalusia. Stay for a few days to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre, the famous mosque and other noteworthy sites.
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- The mesquita (cathedral mosque) is one of the 12 architectural wonders of Spain. It is surrounded by an orange orchard, where you can relax on a hot day. Entrance costs €10.
- Museum in the Viana Palace (the building was built in the 14th century). A rich collection is kept within its walls, including tapestries, pieces of furniture, dishes, weapons, paintings, samples of Roman mosaics, etc. There is also a gallery of azulejos (traditional Spanish painted tiles).
- Medina As-Sahara. A palace city 8 kilometers from, built in the 10th century, which is called the “medieval Versailles”. Excavations at the site are in full swing, with new treasures being discovered every month. The entrance ticket costs €1.5.
- The Alcazar Palace, built on the site of a Moorish fortress and served as the residence of the rulers of Cordoba for more than two thousand years. In this building, Isabella of Castile received Columbus and listened to the plan for his journey to India. The ticket costs €4.5.
- The Jewish Quarter, where the country's main synagogue is located.
What to try?
- thick cold soup salmorejo. It comes with tomato, pumpkin, watermelon, almond, and seafood;
- pork fillet with jamon, cheese or sausages, breaded with eggs and croutons (flamenquín).
How to get to Cordoba from Granada? By train (two and a half hours, from €30), bus (almost 3 hours, from €15) or car (about 2 hours).
It is worth spending at least 2 days in the capital of Andalusia. Bullfighting, flamenco, a series of noisy holidays and festivals, various tapas (it is believed that they were invented here), wines... This city makes you fall in love with it from the first second!
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- Maria de la Sede is the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe (116 meters). Its interior is decorated with paintings by Velazquez and Goya, and the cross is said to be made of gold brought by Columbus from America. Here, perhaps, the great navigator found his final refuge (there is a version that the remains buried in the temple do not belong to Columbus, but to his son). Entrance costs €9.
- Piazza di Spagna is one of the most beautiful in Western Europe. Built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exhibition, it is now a favorite walking spot for local residents.
- Bullfighting arena and museum. Bullfighting in Seville takes place from Easter until the end of October, mostly on Sundays. On other days, you can explore the oldest arena in Spain and look into the thematic museum located right there. The tour program, which costs €8, includes a visit to the chapel where bullfighters pray before a fight and the infirmary where those who are unlucky are taken.
- Arab baths are a legacy of the Moors who once ruled in these parts. Travelers praise Air de Sevilla, a complex whose guests are offered 14 types of relaxation treatments costing from €25 to €195. This is a great way to escape the heat or relax after a long walk.
- Torre del Oro (Golden Tower) is one of the few well-preserved Moorish buildings. Inside there is a maritime museum where you can see navigational instruments, weapons, models and parts of real ships. Tickets cost €3, admission is free on Mondays.
What to try?
- salted cod (remojon);
- cold tomato soup gazpacho;
- buns with almonds and sugar (mostachones).
How to get to Seville from Cordoba? By train (about 50 minutes, from €25), bus (almost 2 hours, from €15) or car (about an hour and a half).
CADIZ
One of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean. It is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing and beach holidays or dream of swimming in the ocean (the season here lasts from May to October). In the Old Town there is Playa Caleta beach, along modern neighborhoods Playa Santa Maria del Mar, Playa Victoria and Playa Cortadura stretch for 10 kilometers.
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- The old town is divided into 4 quarters: Populo, Santa Maria, Vigna and Mentidera. Populo, where the city's nobility once settled, pleases the eye with rich Baroque and Renaissance mansions founded by the Romans. Santa Maria is known as the center of flamenco, Viña is a paradise for fish lovers, and Mentidera is home to the most famous clubs and discos of Cadiz.
- Roman theater built in the 1st century. It was designed to seat 20,000 spectators and was the largest building of its kind in Spain at the time. Free admission.
- The cathedral is one of the largest in Spain. The north tower offers views of Cadiz. The ticket costs €5.
- Castle of San Sebastian, located on the island, opposite Caleta beach. You can get here from Cadiz via a causeway. Exhibitions of works by local artists are held inside from time to time. Free admission.
- Tavira is one of 160 towers that protected the medieval city from invasion. On the second tier there is an observation deck, on the third there is a camera obscura room, where an image of city blocks is projected onto a canvas screen, and even higher there is a terrace with stationary binoculars. The entrance ticket costs €6.
What to try?
Fortified sherry wine, of course! You can go to the birthplace of the drink - to the nearby city of Jerez de la Frontera or buy a bottle in one of the shops in Cadiz.
How to get to Cadiz from Seville? By train (about one and a half hours, from €15), bus (almost 2 hours, from €10) or car (about one and a half hours).
TARIFA
The southernmost point of Europe. The conditions here are ideal for surfing, so every year the city hosts participants and guests of the World Championship. These places are also famous for their excellent views of the African continent and their proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar, excursions along which are available to everyone (if you’re lucky, you can see whales and dolphins up close).
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Why go and what to see in Andalusia
Andalusia is the southernmost region of Spain, washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic. Andalusia's cities are filled with history and extraordinary architectural landmarks, while the coast is famous for its endless sandy beaches and amazing landscapes. For a traveler, Andalusia is a “two in one” region - suitable for both an excursion holiday and a beach holiday. And if the beach season lasts from May to September inclusive, then a variety of excursions are possible all year round, since the region has a mild climate and there is rarely bad weather.
The history of Andalusia is closely connected with the period of Moorish rule in the early Middle Ages. It is not surprising that many cities in the region have amazing monuments of Islamic heritage, which coexist with typically Catholic churches and cathedrals (Spain is a traditionally Catholic country). Almost all major cities in Andalusia have their own alcazar (palace) and alcazaba (fortress). Andalusian cities that are definitely worth visiting include, in particular, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Cordoba, Cadiz and some other smaller towns.
Speaking about the beach component of the holiday, it is worth noting that almost unlimited possibilities open up for tourists here. The main beach holiday areas in Andalusia are the Costa de la Luz, the Costa del Sol and the Costa de Almeria. Each coastline has its own characteristics, and resort centers include towns such as Marbella, Cadiz, Almeria, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Nerja and others.
There are many attractions in Andalusia that are not related to the sea. For example, there are dozens of natural parks here, including the famous Sierra Nevada mountain park, Doñana National Park, Cabo de Gata coastal park, Tarifa dunes and much more. Andalusia owes its diverse nature to its climate, which varies from typically Mediterranean on the border with Portugal to semi-desert in the Almeria Desert (the only one in Europe, by the way). Read also what other regions are popular for .
Martin Haisch/Malaga
Visa and entry rules to Spain
To enter Spain, a Spanish national or Schengen visa type C (tourist) is required. You can also enter Spain with a guest visa (an invitation from the Spanish side is required). You can open a Spanish visa at the Spanish embassy or consulate (Moscow, St. Petersburg) or at numerous visa centers, which are located in almost every major city. In order to obtain a visa, you will need to collect a standard package of documents, take biometric fingerprints (directly when submitting documents), (sum insured not less than 30 thousand euros). The documents also include return tickets and hotel reservations where you are going to stay. As a rule, a visa is issued within a period of several days to two weeks, less often – longer.
The rules for entering Spain are standard relative to Europe, since Spain is part of the Schengen zone. During passport control, you may be asked to present a printout of your travel insurance, hotel reservation, or return tickets, so you need to have them on hand. The rest of the procedure is standard and does not take much time.
harvey barriso/Roman Bridge Climate and weather in Andalusia
Most of the territory of Andalusia has a Mediterranean climate, while in the continental part the weather is hotter, in the coastal part the heat is moderated by the sea breeze, snow falls in the Sierra Nevada mountains in winter, but in the Almeria desert you can see “lunar” landscapes all year round . Despite the wide variety of climatic zones, the weather in Andalusia is quite mild and one of the warmest in Europe, due to the proximity of Africa (across the strait).
Summer time in Andalusia is ideal for a beach holiday; the water on the coast warms up to comfortable temperatures closer to June and lasts until the end of September. It is also worth noting that cold currents may arrive on the Costa del Sol several times during the summer, but this phenomenon does not last long. As for the Costa de la Luz, you can swim here starting in June, despite the fact that the coast is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The temperature reaches maximum comfort for swimming in July-August. The swimming season opens earliest in the Costa de Almeria, as it has a semi-desert climate.
lucia.lence/sunset in St. Petri How to get to Andalusia
The most popular ways to get to Andalusia are by flying to Malaga or Madrid. Malaga is located in the eastern part of Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol, from here it is convenient to relax in such resorts as Marbella, Benalmadena, Nerja, Torremolinos, Mijas, etc., as well as explore Granada and Ronda. Madrid is not located in Andalusia, but in the neighboring region of Castile, with easy access to cities such as Seville and Cordoba, as well as to the resorts of the Costa de la Luz, including Cadiz, Huelva and Tarifa. There are convenient railway connections between the cities, so you can get from one part of Andalusia to another in just a couple of hours. It is also worth noting that train travel in Spain is one of the cheapest in Europe.
Flights to Malaga and Madrid are operated by both Russian and Spanish airlines. Flight time is approximately 5-5.5 hours from Moscow. There are also flights with transfers in European cities (such flights are usually cheaper than direct ones). In addition to Moscow, you can also fly directly to Madrid and Malaga from St. Petersburg, but from other Russian cities you will need a transfer in the capital. You can check the flight schedule for the desired route on ticket booking services:
In Malaga, planes land at Costa del Sol International Airport, which is located 8 km from the city center. The airport has 3 terminals, planes from Russia are served by terminal No. 3. You can get from the airport to Malaga and other resorts on the Costa del Sol by bus, commuter train or taxi. Bus stops and a train station are located right next to terminal No. 3, which is very convenient for those landing. A taxi can be found at the exit from the terminal, or you can order a transfer in advance.
On services And You can book transfer services to any desired resort on the Costa del Sol (Marbella, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Mijas, Nerja and others). You can travel to other cities in Andalusia from Malaga by train. So, the travel time from Malaga to Granada will be about 3 hours, to Ronda - 1 hour 50 minutes. Schedule – at the railway service .
Kamyar Adl/Marbella Public transport in Andalusia
To travel between the cities of Andalusia, among public transport, it is most convenient to use trains, because This method is the fastest and most comfortable. By train you can reach almost any, even the smallest settlement (although there are exceptions, for example, you cannot get to Marbella by train). The train schedule to the desired city can always be checked at the railway service . You can also travel between cities by regular buses, but the number of such routes is limited, and the travel time is much longer. You can view the bus schedule on the website Alsa and on the websites of several other regional carriers.
In the cities themselves, within the historical centers, where the main attractions are concentrated, you can get around on foot. In addition, major cities in Andalusia, such as Seville and Malaga, have an extensive public transport network, including buses, metro and trams.
Min Zhou/Metropol Parasol Andalusia by car; Rent a Car
Andalusia is a fairly large region by European standards; there are 8 provinces located here, and they are all connected by highways along which you can easily, quickly and comfortably travel by car. In general, traveling around Andalusia by car is one of the best ideas for independent tourism. Firstly, by car you can get to places in the region that are inaccessible by public transport, this concerns, first of all, . Secondly, when traveling by car, you can forget about the not always convenient public transport schedules and travel at your own pace and rhythm. Thirdly, having a car at hand solves many applied problems, such as the issue of transfers, tickets for public transport, etc. It is not surprising that car rental in Spain is becoming more and more popular every year.
In order to rent a car in the cities of Spain, you must present a standard set of documents - a passport, a driver's license (international or national new type with an entry in Latin) and a bank card to pay for services and block the deposit. The registration procedure itself does not take more than 20 minutes, and you may also be offered additional car insurance. A convenient option is the ability to book the desired class of car in advance. You can do this on car booking services; just select the city in which you plan to rent and the actual class of car you need:
Emilio/Motorways of Spain Cities of Andalusia
In Andalusia, no matter the city, it is a real pearl of architectural thought. Even in small towns in the region you can sometimes find unique historical monuments, let alone large cities, which, in fact, are major tourist centers not only in Spain, but throughout Europe. The most visited cities in Andalusia are Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga and Cadiz. Read more about the attractions of each of them below:
is the administrative center of Andalusia, its cultural and tourist capital with many historical monuments and architectural attractions, some of which are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Holidays in Seville are a mixture of varied excursions, excellent cuisine, bullfighting and flamenco. The main tourist sites are the Alcazar of Seville, the Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park, the Metropole Parasol, the House of Pilate, the Torre del Oro Tower, the Maestransa bullring, the Flamenco Museum and much more;
- a city where Moorish motifs and flaming Gothic were mixed, and the Mudejar style was born. Granada boasts a huge number of UNESCO monuments, the main of which are the Granada Alhambra and the ancient Albaciin quarter. In addition, the Granada Cathedral, the Generalife Palace and Gardens, as well as the Sacromonte Abbey in the vicinity of the city certainly deserve attention;
- a city that appeared during the times of Ancient Rome and has since experienced a rich history, and one of its most striking milestones was the kingdom of the Cordoba Caliphate in the Middle Ages. Among the attractions of Cordoba are the Alcazar Palace, the Mezquita (cathedral mosque), the Roman Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, the Calahorra Tower, and the Merced Palace. All objects are perfectly preserved and have survived to this day in their authentic form;
- a port city and a major tourist center on the Costa del Sol. Here you can stroll along the medieval streets and visit the fortresses and forts that defended the city, have fun on Malagueta beach and go on a further journey along the coast; it’s not for nothing that Malaga is called the “gateway” of the Costa del Sol. The top attractions of the city include the Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, the La Malagueta bullring, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro fortresses, the La Concepción botanical garden, the old port of the city, and, of course, the local beaches;
– is considered the most ancient city in Europe. Cadiz is located on the Atlantic coast, has stunning sandy beaches and a number of historical attractions that make the city unique and inimitable. Despite the fact that Cadiz can be considered a beach resort, there are no less opportunities for sightseeing trips. The main sites of the city, in particular, include the Cadiz Cathedral, the Candelaria Bastion, the Genoese Park, the Fortress of St. Sebastian, etc. The best beaches of Cadiz can be safely called Playa Santa Maria del Mar, Playa Victoria, Playa Cortadura and Playa Caleta;
LWYang/Granada - a picturesque town hidden on steep cliffs. The best views of Ronda are natural. Tourists eagerly travel to the city to see the famous Punta Nuevo Bridge, which hangs over a rocky abyss at the bottom of which flows the Guadalevin River. In this case, it would be fair to say that it is better to see the arched bridge of Punta Nuevo once than to hear about it a hundred times;
– this is the birthplace of the famous drink sherry; it is not for nothing that the city is often included in the route of gastronomic tours of Andalusia. In addition to wine tasting, it’s definitely worth visiting Jerez to see one of the largest Cathedrals in the region, stroll through the local alcazar, visit the Church of St. Michael and the Atalaya museum complex. Do not forget that in the vicinity of the city there are hundreds of wineries that invite guests to taste their products;
is a small but very colorful town located in the vicinity of the Doñana National Park and near the Portuguese border. Huelva is not typical Spain; there is a lot of English here, both in architecture and design. Among the things that are definitely worth seeing in Huelva are the Cathedral, the Roman aqueduct, the Church of St. Peter and, of course, the house of Columbus. In the vicinity of Huelva there are also many attractions, for example, the Monastery of Santa Clare, the Temple of the Virgin of La Cinta, and the Doñana National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Huelva's spacious sandy beaches are also mesmerizing;
– the main attraction of Tarifa is considered to be the point of reference that separates the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This point is not symbolic; when you arrive in Tarifa, you will really see how the translucent emerald water of the sea and the black blue of the ocean mix near the coast. Tarifa is the southernmost point of Europe; Africa begins across the strait, so it is not surprising that this is where the local sandy beaches turn into real dunes and dunes. However, swimming here is not always comfortable, strong winds blow, but the place can be recommended to all lovers of windsurfing and kiting.
steven gerner/Ronda Bridge Andalusia: beaches and resorts
Andalusia is one of the best places for a beach holiday in Spain. The beaches here are entirely sandy, golden, spacious, at the same time surprisingly clean, well-groomed and, most importantly, free. Cleanliness here is strictly monitored by local authorities, so many marked with the Blue Flag as the cleanest beaches in the world. Conventionally, the entire coast of Andalusia is divided into three large areas - Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light), washed by the Atlantic, Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun), washed by the Mediterranean Sea and Costa de Almeria, which is also washed by the Mediterranean Sea. , but has differences in the landscape due to the proximity of the Almerian desert.
Of the above cities, beach resorts undoubtedly include And with their amazing golden sandy beaches. Both resorts are located in the Costa de la Luz area, i.e. washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The swimming season here lasts from late May to mid-September; the best months for swimming are July and August, when the water off the coast warms up to maximum temperatures. Read more about other beach resorts in Andalusia:
– the resort is located on the Costa de la Luz, where the Guadalquivir River merges with the Atlantic, and here is the Doñana National Park. The best beach area can be considered a series of beaches Bajo de Guía, Calzada, Piletas and La Jara, as well as the beaches of neighboring Chipiona;
- a secluded resort on the Costa de la Luz with crystal clear white beaches and calm waters of the bay. The best beaches can be found in the St. Petri area, which is considered a protected area;
- one of the most popular resorts on the Costa del Sol. The advantage of the resort is its developed infrastructure. The Marbella beach line is sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, equipped to the maximum, from sun loungers, umbrellas and sun loungers to equipment for water sports, bars, cafes and open-air parties;
- the main resort on the Costa de Almeria. This resort is quite young by Spanish standards, but modern infrastructure makes it very competitive. The main advantage of Almeria, in addition to its developed infrastructure, is the sandy beaches blown up from the African desert. The Costa de Almeria coast is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, and the holiday season lasts from June to September inclusive;
kevin pacheco/Almeria Beaches - the second largest beach resort on the Costa del Sol after Marbella. The best beaches here are the beaches of Malapesquera Torrebermeya, Bil Bil, Arroyo de la Miel, La Viborilla, Las Yucas. Another advantage of the resorts is all kinds of entertainment complexes, natural parks and other activities that only Benalmadena can offer among the resorts of the Costa del Sol;
– the closest beach resort to Malaga is the Costa del Sol. The development of infrastructure combined with long sandy beaches make Torremolinos a very popular place during the “high” swimming season. The resort's beach line is conventionally divided into two parts - El Bajondillo in the east and La Carihuela in the west, both are excellent for swimming and relaxing;
– the resort is famous for its clean 8-kilometer beaches, included in the Blue Flag list. The coast is washed by the waters of Middle-earth, there is a gentle entrance to the sea, the place is excellent for family holidays, incl. with small children. The best beaches in Fuengirola are Los Boliches, Las Gavitolas, San Francisco and Torreblanca;
- a small but very comfortable resort on the Costa del Sol. The place is famous for its Mijas Costa coastline and the Aquamijas water park. To visit the local water park, tourists come to Mijas from all nearby resorts, including Marbella and Fuengirola;
is both a beach and an excursion city. The beaches of Nerja are located in secluded sandy bays, which are sheltered from the winds; in addition, they are surprisingly picturesque. The bays are surrounded by local mountains, climbing which you can see breathtaking landscapes. It is not surprising that it is in Nerja that the “Balcony of Europe” is located, from which in good weather you can even see the coast of Africa. The caves of Nerja are also worth a visit, as they are fraught with many surprises;
– the Costa del Sol resort, the most distant from Malaga, is suitable for those seeking solitude. The main attractions of Estepona are beautiful deserted beaches, snow-white houses of the old town, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Just think, the beaches of Estepona stretch along the coast for 22 kilometers, isn’t this a paradise for beach lovers!
rey perezoso/Caleta Beach Hotels in Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia has a well-developed hotel infrastructure. In large cities you can find chain hotels, bed and breakfast hotels, and budget doubles and triples, while at the resorts along the coast there is a whole chain of beach hotels with a full range of appropriate functions. The price category of hotels in Andalusia is considered quite affordable and is comparable, for example, with hotel prices in Catalonia. Also in Andalusia, such a type of accommodation as renting apartments has become widespread. Moreover, living in apartments is popular both in large cities such as Seville or Malaga, and in small towns on the coast.
You can find a suitable hotel/apartment in Andalusia, as well as check availability for specific dates, using specialized services for searching hotel offers:
Booking - hotel reservations in 120,000 destinations around the world;
Roomguru - the best deals from thousands of hotel booking sites.
When choosing a hotel, pay attention to such parameters as location, availability of a beach area (if it is a resort on the coast), type of food, availability of parking (if traveling by car). In anticipation of the high season, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
elliott brown/Mijas Travel insurance
When going on a trip to Andalusia or any other part of Spain, do not forget to take out a travel insurance policy, which is mandatory already at the stage of obtaining a tourist visa (must be presented when applying for a visa). You can take out insurance yourself without leaving your home. There are special services for this:
- online insurance for people traveling abroad and traveling in Russia;
- Oonline service for selecting and purchasing travel insurance with the ability to compare offers from various insurance companies;
You can purchase a policy online and then print it on a regular printer. Insurance must be attached to your visa documents, and you must also have it with you when going through passport control upon arrival at the airport. Please note that the minimum amount of insurance coverage for a trip to the Schengen countries (including Spain) is 30 thousand euros. Medicine in Spain is paid and in each individual case can be very expensive, so having insurance with you is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Jorge Franganillo/Sacromonte area We will be happy to answer your questions in the comments!
Photo at the beginning of the article: Edmund Gall
