25 Best Things to do in Andalusia, Spain: Top Places to visit

Explore Andalusia, a beautiful region of Spain known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Discover the most beautiful places in Andalusia, from ancient towns to picturesque beaches. Check out our travel guide with tips on best things to do in Andalusia and create your own itinerary to visit Andalusia.

Today, we’ll take a look at the top places to see and things to do in Andalusia, Spain to build your itinerary. We’ll also add tipshow to enjoy your visit to Andalusia (transport, parking, food, accommodation, map).

Best Things to do in Andalusia

Andalusia is an incredibly beautiful and diverse region in the south-west of Spain. It is home to spectacular mountains and beautiful beaches lining the Mediterranean Sea. Visit one of the historic cities including Seville, Granada, Córdoba, Ronda or Cádiz. Don’t miss the beautiful Pueblos Blancos, white villages scattered across the countryside. There are so many to choose from and one is more beautiful than the other.

Let’s see what are the most beautiful places and things to do in Andalusia:

1. Granada and the Alhambra – the most beautiful monuments of Andalusia

If you are planning a trip to Granada, a visit to the Alhambra should definitely not be missing from your itinerary. This Moorish palace is one of the most famous monuments in Andalusia and is steeped in history and architectural beauty.

As you walk through the palace, you will be transported back in time, surrounded by breathtaking gardens and intricate Arabic calligraphy. Be sure to take time to explore the different parts of the palace, such as the Nasrid Palace and the Generalife Gardens.

But Granada hides many other beautiful places worth adding to your itinerary of things to do in Andalusia. One of those places is El Albaicín. A stunning neighbourhood on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with winding cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses and Moorish buildings. From here, you will have the most beautiful views of the Alhambra Palace.

Read more our tips on the best things to do in Granada.

2. Sierra Nevada – the largest mountain range in Andalusia

The Sierra Nevada is the mountain range that flanks the city of Granada and provides a breathtaking panorama for the Alhambra Palace as seen from the Mirador de San Nicolás lookout in Granada (one of the most beautiful lookouts in Andalusia).

If you love nature, put Sierra Nevada on your itinerary of places to visit in Andalusia. Snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and deep forests can be explored through one of many activities – from hiking to horse riding to paragliding.

The entire mountain range is interwoven with waterfalls, gorges and stone mountain huts. If you climb the highest peak, Mulhacén or Pico Veleta, you can enjoy views all the way to Africa in clear weather.

3. Montefrio

A visit to Montefrio is like a return to history. This picturesque hilltop village in the Andalusian province of Granada oozes charm with its cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The hilltop location also provides fantastic views of other villages and distant mountain ranges – ideal for those who want to take in the spectacular scenery.

Tip: For an iconic view of Montefrio, with the Castillo de Montefrío church at the top, type “Mirador del Paseo” into Google maps.

4. Frigiliana – the most beautiful Pueblos Blancos

Frigiliana is one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia. It is situated in the hills of Axarquia, near Málaga. Stroll through the picturesque cobbled streets lined with white-painted houses, or take one of the surrounding hiking trails that take you past caves and waterfalls.

Frigiliana is a good base for exploring the central part of Andalusia. Even though it’s small, there’s plenty to do and it’s only a few minutes drive to the sea.

5. Nerja

Just a few kilometres south of Frigiliana is Nerja, a seaside town with a lively atmosphere. The ideal place for a relaxing stay and a holiday full of adventure.

The town is surrounded by beautiful nature. The coastline is lined with smaller sandy beaches separated by rocky cliffs, and on the other side are mountains full of lush forests, which are interspersed with hiking trails.

But you don’t have to go far to get a great view – there’s a landscaped lookout right in the centre of town called Balcón de Europa.

One of the best things to do in Andalusia is the extensive cave complex of Cueva de Nerja.

Another place that is among the best places to see in Andalusia is the Cueva de Nerja, a vast cave complex.

6. Seville – the most beautiful city in Andalusia

Seville is a beautiful Andalusian city with many attractions. From stunning architecture to vibrant nightlife to a rich cultural heritage.

One of the most beautiful places in Seville is the Real Alcázar, a magnificent palace from the 11th century. century, which is considered one of the best examples of Moorish architecture in Europe. You will find beautiful gardens, enchanting courtyards and many decorated rooms.

Another must-see in the city is the Seville Cathedral with its Renaissance bell tower, La Giralda, which is the 3. the largest cathedral in Europe. A short walk away is the former Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of narrow streets and colourful houses with lots of small shops and restaurants.

No trip to Seville would be complete without a visit to the Plaza de España. The vast square is literally decorated with azulejos, ceramic tiles typical of Andalusian architecture.

And where to enjoy one of the best views of Seville? Definitely from the modern Metropol Parasol viewpoint, which is open until late at night.

Read more tips on the best things to do in Seville.

7. Córdoba – the city of flowers

Córdoba is located in the heart of Spanish Andalusia. A city full of flowers, historical monuments, amazing architecture and rich culture, it is one of the most visited cities in Andalusia. Córdoba is not big and you can probably see the best it has to offer in one day.

Córdoba is the former capital of a vast Muslim caliphate that existed in the Middle Ages, and you’ll find plenty of ancient monuments here. For example, the majestic Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, a breathtaking example of Moorish architecture and a symbol of reconciliation between Christianity and Islam.

You can start your visit at Plaza de la Corredera, which is lined with buildings in vibrant hues with arcades, restaurants and shops, and from there take a tour of some of Córdoba’s most beautiful sites – the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (translated as the Fortress of the Christian Kings), the Roman Bridge or the Calleja de las Flores, a picturesque street full of flowers.

8. Priego de Córdoba

Priego de Córdoba is a place where time stands still. From baroque churches to picturesque squares, there are countless places that will take you back in time. At night, the city comes alive with entertainment, from traditional flamenco performances to lively bars and cafés.

With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals and rolling olive groves, Priego de Córdoba is one of the best places to see in Andalusia.

Located halfway between Córdoba and Granada, it is perfectly situated for exploring Andalusia.

9. Málaga

Málaga is a city full of charm, energy and history. From its stunning architecture to its bustling streets, it is the ideal place for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.

Located on one of Spain’s most beautiful coastlines, the Costa del Sol, you’ll enjoy golden beaches and a warm climate.

Sample the local cuisine and visit breathtaking sights such as the Roman Theatre, the Alcazaba Fortress and Gibralfaro Hill with its castle and fantastic views.

In addition, Málaga offers a rich culture and lively atmosphere, from bustling markets to a lively nightlife.

Málaga is a great base for exploring Andalusia – it has direct links to other cities such as Seville and Granada, and you can take a number of excursions from here (including the Caminito Del Rey).

Check out our tips on the best things to do in Malaga.

10. Mijas – the most beautiful places to visit in Andalusia

Mijas is located halfway between Málaga and Marbella (see our other tip on what to visit in Andalusia). You can imagine Mijas as a labyrinth of winding streets, white painted houses and colourful flowers.

A charming little town and a perfect day trip where you can wander around for hours and discover new corners or enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine in one of the restaurants.

11. Marbella

Marbella is a lively seaside resort on the Costa del Sol. It is the ideal place for people who want to relax in the sun, explore the surroundings or enjoy the lively nightlife. There is something for everyone in this city.

Like Málaga, it’s perfectly situated for exploring the surrounding area, so you can easily explore other parts of Andalusia (such as nearby Ronda) during your stay in Marbella.

Whether you want to sunbathe and relax on one of Marbella’s pristine beaches or explore its picturesque cobbled streets, there’s plenty to do and see.

The historic centre wraps around the Plaza de los Naranjos, from which narrow streets wind around white-painted houses with colourful planters.

12. Ronda – the most beautiful city in Andalusia

Ronda is a historic town on the cliffs, famous for the Puente Nuevo Bridge. It arches over the deep El Tajo gorge and imaginatively divides the historic centre into two parts. You can go down to the bridge and enjoy the view of the bridge and the waterfall from a different perspective (and surprisingly, there aren’t that many people).

Nearby is another bridge, Puente Viejo, which sees far fewer tourists. But it is definitely worth seeing. The whole city is literally interwoven with monuments, charming streets and fantastic views in all directions. It’s easy to see why Ronda is one of the most visited and beautiful towns in Andalusia and Spain.

13. Setenil de las Bodegas

It’s like stepping back in time as you walk through the narrow, winding streets of Setenil de las Bodegas, which are lined with white-plastered houses partially built into the rocks. The village is famous for its cave dwellings, which are set into the cliffs. Above them are traditional Andalusian houses and churches full of niches and spiral staircases leading to hidden courtyards.

Setenil de las Bodegas is a great place to explore if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track. You can learn about the history and culture of the city, admire the stunning architecture and taste delicious regional dishes such as migas (a type of bread dish) or gazpacho (cold tomato soup).

See the complete offer accommodation in Andalusia .

14. Olvera

Olvera should be visited by anyone who wants to experience the best of Andalusian culture. From a distance you can clearly recognize it by the church and castle, which tower high above the surrounding houses and form a perfect panorama. Olvera’s proximity to Seville and other nearby towns makes it an ideal destination for day trips.

15. Caminito Del Rey

Caminito del Rey is an unforgettable experience. A trail of breathtaking views that winds through the El Chorro Gorge. Located in the province of Málaga, it is one of the most popular day trips from Málaga.

The trail itself is perfectly safe and suitable for children (if you are afraid of heights, you will have to overcome a lot on some sections). The trail leads around rock walls with views of cascading waterfalls and piercingly clear water. If you’re lucky, you may also spot wild animals such as the local goats and eagles.

Caminito Del Rey is extremely popular and tickets can sell out in advance.

Get inspired by our tips for perfect trips from Málaga.

16. Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra is an idyllic town near Ronda. Its location high atop a hill provides spectacular views of the valley below and the Sierra de Grazalema National Park.

You can wander the streets lined with white painted houses and rock overhangs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. One of the best views can be enjoyed from the top of the castle walls, where you can see the nearby Embalse de Zahara-el Gastor dam and the mountain panorama beyond.

17. Sierra de Grazalema – things to do in Andalusia

The Sierra de Grazalema is a beautiful rocky mountain range that is a must-stop for any nature lover. Stunning mountain peaks, lush green valleys and endless skies will enchant you from the moment you arrive.

But it’s not just the beautiful nature full of waterfalls, lakes and caves that will enchant you. You can also visit one of the picturesque villages, such as Zahara de la Sierra (see above) and the village of Grazalema, which are both national monuments.

From Zahara de la Sierra, the mountain pass Puerto de las Palomas leads to the village of Grazalema, with spectacular views of the surrounding area. There are rest areas where you can take one of the hiking trails.

18. Ubrique

Ubrique is a small but lively town in the Sierra de Grazalema. The picturesque cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and many hiking trails in the area make Ubrique one of the best places to visit in Andalusia.

19. Júzcar – Smurf Village

Júzcar is literally smashing the culture of white villages in Andalusia. Thanks to its blue-painted houses, it became famous as the first “Smurf Village” in the world. The entire village was painted blue in 2011 as part of a promotional campaign for the release of Sony Pictures’ Smurfs.

Although the promotion ended after six months, the villagers voted to keep their houses blue due to their newfound fame and contribution to tourism. You can stroll through the cobbled streets lined with bright blue houses with terracotta roofs or take part in the annual Smurf Festival.

20. Cadiz

Cadiz is a beautiful Spanish coastal town that deserves to be on your itinerary of places to visit in Andalusia. With golden beaches, rich culture and breathtaking sights, there’s something for everyone. Located on the south-western edge of Andalusia, it is reached by a modern bridge.

Explore the old quarter of El Pópulo, stroll along La Caleta Beach with views of Santa Catalina Castle, or enjoy traditional seafood-based cuisine.

For one of the best views of Cádiz, visit the historic Torre Tavira lookout tower, where you’ll have the whole city in the palm of your hand, including the magnificent Baroque cathedral, with its bell towers and distinctive dome towering over the surrounding houses.

21. Arcos de la Frontera

Arcos de la Frontera is a picturesque town full of charm, located on top of a hill in the province of Cadiz. With its narrow cobbled streets, beautiful views and rich history, it should be on everyone’s bucket list when driving past.

Arcos is famous for its whitewashed houses and ancient churches that line the main square, Palaza del Cabildo, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

You’ll also find plenty of great food, from tapas bars to Andalusian restaurants. In addition, Arcos is close enough to the beautiful beaches of the Costa de la Luz to make it an ideal place for a day trip.

22. Mirador del Estrecho

There are countless viewpoints throughout Andalusia. Mirador del Estrecho is one of the most famous. It is located on the main road to the port town of Tarifa.

From the landscaped viewpoint, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the opposite Africa in clear weather. There are also refreshments right at the viewpoint.

23. Bolonia Beach – the most beautiful beach in Andalusia

With its white sand, crystal clear water and beautiful nature, Bolonia is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. As well as swimming and relaxing by the sea, you can also explore the nearby Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, the dunes and paths.

Entrance to the beach is free, but it is still very well maintained and clean. Bolonia Beach is located along the smaller resort of El Lentiscal between Cadiz and Tarifa. Parking is by the beach and there are plenty of restaurants nearby.

24. Cabo de Gata – the most beautiful nature in Andalusia

Cabo de Gata is a stunning nature reserve in the east of Andalusia. It is an unspoilt sanctuary of beaches, islands and rocky coves. Its rugged reefs provide spectacular views of the coastline and the crystal clear water is ideal for snorkelling and diving. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore the rare flora and fauna.

Visiting Cabo de Gata is like stepping back in time – the area remains true to its rustic beauty, free of tourist traps and modern development. Thanks to its remarkable biodiversity, the area has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

25. Mojácar

Mojácar is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Spain and it’s easy to see why. With its beautiful beaches, picturesque cobbled streets and bright white houses against the backdrop of the deep blue sea, it is the ideal holiday destination.

The city can be divided into two parts – the old town, which is more inland and surrounded by mountains, and the newer part along the coast. The old town makes Mojácar one of the most beautiful towns with traditional architecture in Andalusia.

TOP 10 Andalusia

Do you have limited time and only want to see the best Andalusia has to offer? Get inspired by our list of the TOP 10 most beautiful places to see in Andalusia:

1. Seville
2. Granada
3. Cordoba
4. Ronda
5. Nerja
6. Costa del Sol
7. Cabo de Gata
8. Frigiliana
9. Bolonia beach
10. Mijas

The most beautiful places to visit in Andalusia – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map with tips on sights and interesting places to visit in Andalusia, Spain. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places mentioned in the Andalusia guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.

How to get to Andalusia?

By air to Andalusia

The easiest way to get to Andalusia is by air to one of the region’s international airports, such as Málaga or Seville. From here you can take a train, bus or rental car to explore. Check out the latest flights to Spain here.

By car to Andalusia

In Andalusia you drive on the right and overtake on the left as in most of Europe. Some sections of motorways are subject to tolls.

As far as Andalusia is concerned, there is a toll section between Málaga and Marbella (there is a non-tolled motorway next to it, but it is much busier), or a section of the motorway on the way from Málaga to Córdoba, or a toll section on the way to Córdoba. Granada. Here you can see where the toll motorways are in Spain.

You can also tell by the markings – non-tolled sections of motorways are marked with A plus one or two digits, and tolled sections are marked with AP plus one or two digits (for example AP-7 or AP-46).

You can pay the toll at the tollgate in the classic way – cash or card, or you can. you can pay with the electronic Via-T system.

You can check current petrol and diesel prices at this link.

How to get around Andalusia?

The best way to get around Andalusia is by bus, train or car. The region has an extensive road network that makes travelling by road easy and comfortable.

Trains and buses

For train connections, visit the Spanish Railways Renfe website. You can buy tickets online or at the station.

In addition, there are also a number of intercity buses available if you plan to travel between the major cities of Andalusia. National bus companies such as Alsa and Avanza connect even more small towns and villages than railways.

Local bus routes tend to be cheaper than trains, although the journey usually takes longer. You can buy tickets at the station or online.

Car rental in Andalusia

Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to explore Andalusia without a tour operator and create an itinerary that fits your pace and needs.

For a road tip around Andalusia, I recommend comparing car rental offers to get the best service at the lowest price. Just beware that prices can vary between rental companies. In our experience, they offer the best prices and the widest range of Rentalcars.com.

To rent a car in Spain you will need a driving licence from your home country (non-EU citizens need an international driving licence), a passport and a credit card.

Parking in Andalusia

Parking in Andalusia can be tricky. Before you try to park, it is important to know the local laws and regulations, as well as the layout of each city and town. In general, parking is prohibited in most areas of city centres, and there are usually signs indicating where you can and cannot park. If possible, try to avoid busy roads when looking for a parking space, as these often have limited access.

There are plenty of parking options around Andalusian towns and cities. Some of them offer free public parking in designated spaces, while others may charge for parking in private car parks or garages.

Parkopedia has been our best bet for finding parking. Free car parks in the outskirts of towns and cities, where you can get to the centre by public transport, are also a good option.

Where to stay in Andalusia?

Here are some tips on where to stay in Andalusia:

• Hotels – Andalusia offers many accommodation options for all budgets, from five-star luxury hotels to affordable family-run guesthouses. Make sure you do your research online before booking so you know exactly what hotel you’re going to.
• Hostels – If you’re looking for an economical way to travel around Andalusia, hostels are a great option. Most hostels have private and shared rooms, which are usually equipped with a kitchenette or common meeting areas.
• Apartments – If you’re looking for a more homely environment when travelling, then an apartment is a good option for you. They are often fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Plus, you’ll have your own space and privacy if you need it.
• Villas – If you’re travelling in a group or with your family, renting a villa in Andalusia is another great option. You’ll enjoy all the luxury of a hotel, but you’ll have the freedom and space of your own – plus you’ll likely have a spectacular panoramic view.

Andalusia is extremely popular. Book early as popular seats can be booked up quickly.

See the complete offer accommodation in Andalusia .

What to taste in Andalusia? What is a typical meal?

The most typical Andalusian dishes are Gazpacho (cold tomato soup), Salmorejo (a thicker version of Gazpacho), Jamón Serrano (cured ham) and Pescaíto Frito (fried fish).

You can also sample a wide range of tapas such as croquetas, patatas bravas and tortilla Española.

For a sweet treat, nothing beats El Almendrado de Málaga, a cake made from almonds.

Traditional Andalusian specialities include boquerones en vinagre (anchovies marinated in vinegar) and huevos rotos (fried eggs served with potatoes).

Seafood plays an important role in the local diet, but other proteins such as pork, lamb and beef are also abundant. Vegetables such as potatoes, peppers, aubergines, artichokes, onions and mushrooms are also commonly used.

Or try grilled sardines on a skewer. On the beaches you can see how the locals prepare them in old boats.

And what kind of drink to have with your meal? The best choice is a glass of good sherry or traditional Andalusian vermouth.

Bon appetit!

Practical tips for visiting Andalusia

What language is spoken in Andalusia?

Overall, Spanish is the main language spoken in Andalusia, but other languages (Catalan or Valencian, and minorities also use their own languages, such as Aragonese, Galician and Occitan) can be heard from time to time.

English is becoming increasingly popular among the younger generations as it is used in many tourist spots throughout the region.

When to go to Andalusia?

The most popular time to visit Andalusia is summer, when the golden beaches start to fill up with locals and tourists alike. On the other hand, temperatures can soar to 35-40°C, and if you plan to explore the sights and cities, temperatures can be oppressive.

In spring and autumn, wildflowers bloom abundantly and temperatures are pleasant. It’s the perfect time of year for long walks through olive groves and vineyards, sampling delicious Spanish food in local restaurants and exploring historic cities such as Granada and Seville.

Winters are another great time to visit Andalusia. Queues are smaller, prices are lower and daytime temperatures are around a pleasant 15°C.

Overall, the weather in Andalusia is pleasant and warm throughout the year without much rainfall.

How to pay in Andalusia?

In Andalusia, you pay in euros. The most common payment method is cash, which can be used almost everywhere. Many places also accept credit and debit cards, the most common being Visa and Mastercard.

It’s a good idea to have some cash and change on you at all times. For example, taxis in some cities do not accept cards and not all parking meters are equipped with card payment options. Coins are also useful for buying tickets on city buses.

Is Andalusia safe?

Andalusia is generally considered a safe destination with a relatively low crime rate compared to other parts of Europe. Still, use your common sense and be vigilant to stay safe. Do not take valuables or large sums of money with you.

Don’t forget about quality travel insurance. I also recommend making a copy of your passport or ID card to keep separate from your documents. If the worst happens and you lose your documents, you will still have something in your hand.

See the complete offer accommodation in Andalusia .

This was our guide with tips on best things to do in Andalusia. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about Andalusia

GRANADA: Granada is a historic gem near Seville, home to the world-famous Alhambra Palace. Read our guide with tips on attractions and sights to visit in Granada.

SEVILLA: Get inspired by our tips on the best things to do in Seville.

MÁLAGA: Málaga is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Andalusia – we’ve put together a travel guide to Málaga with tips on things to do and practical information before your travel to Málaga.

SPAIN: In our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain, we give you tips on things to do in Spain.

MALLORCA: Mallorca is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain, with so many breathtaking places to visit in Mallorca.

Read even more tips on travelling to Spain.

Summary: Things to do in Andalusia