Explore the fascinating history and spectacular landscapes of Andalucia
Take an Andalucia touring holiday and discover the amazing history and cultural diversity which make the region so fascinating. Marvel at the Moorish heritage in Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba and Carmona, the renaissance splendour of Úbeda and Osuna and the modern cultural delights of Málaga, the ‘city of museums’.
With Alpine mountain scenery in Grazalema, Sierra Nevada and Cazorla and the Atlantic coastline of the Costa de la Luz, what more could you ask for?
Fly direct or via Madrid
Fly direct from the UK to Málaga, Sevilla, Granada or Jerez or fly to Madrid and take the high speed train to Córdoba or Sevilla.
- Independent self-drive touring with all the info and support you need.
- Bespoke itineraries – designed and organised by our experts.
- Fly to Spain and we’ll include a car – please ask about train options.
Practical Information
Andalucia - destination overview
Andalucia is the southernmost region of mainland Spain. South of Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha, it borders with Portugal and Murcia in the west and east, respectively. In southeast of the province of Cadiz, the British overseas territory of Gibraltar – commonly known as the “Rock” – is connected to Spain by a sandy isthmus. The strait of the same name acts as a natural connection between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea both of which bathe the extensive Andalucian coastline, and separates the Iberian Peninsula (and Europe) from Africa, just a few miles away.
This large historical territory with its ancient cities and vast heritage is a land of striking contrasts. From the main mountain ranges of Sierra Morena and Sierra Nevada (the Mulhacen with 3.482mts is the highest in the Iberian Peninsula) in the Betic Systems, to the arid desert of Tabernas, the invaluable marshes of Doñana National Park, the fertile Guadalquivir River basin flowing into the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz, Andalucia has all you could wish for. It comprises eight provinces though our holiday tours cover the western provinces of Sevilla, Cádiz, Granada, Málaga, Jaén and Córdoba avoiding the main hot-spots of mass-tourism associated with the Costa del Sol.
Places to visit in Andalucia
Main highlights & cities in Andalucia
- Cathedral & Alcázar of Sevilla
- Great Mosque of Córdoba
- Granada’s Alhambra Palace & Albaicin
- Malaga – Mediterranean seaside chic
- Renaissance gems Ubeda & Baeza
- Sanlucar, gateway to Doñana National Park
- Grazalema, Ronda & the ‘Pueblos Blancos’
- Carmona: Sevilla in miniature
- Sierra Subbética – Priego de Cordoba & bike the Via Verde of Cabra
- Alcalá la Real – magnificent Moorish fortress town
- Osuna, historic seat of the powerful Duques de Osuna
- Visit Lucena, historic Jewish town
- Roman ruins at Italica, Puente Genil and Baena
Things to do in Andalucia
Famous for its matadors, sherry wines, spotty dresses, wild fiestas and endless beach resorts, Andalucia has so much more to discover beyond the stereotypes. There is no doubt that it is a paradise for art lovers with its ancient cities and villages steeped in history but, if you are seeking a bit more of adventure then Andalucia is also your destination.
From the art galleries, beaches and bars of Málaga it’s just a short trip into the mountains where you can walk the vertiginous Caminito del Rey or head into the Grazalema National Park where you can practice all sorts of outdoor activities. Go rafting or canyoning in the dramatic gorges of Garganta Verde or Las Buitreras, enjoy the stunning scenery by walking through the several trekking and hiking trails or discover the Andalucian countryside on horseback.
From Granada you can be in the Sierra Nevada in under half an hour and from Córdoba you can head north into the ‘dehesa‘ de los Pedroches or the Natural Park of Sierra de Hornachuelos – in Andalucia the mountain and the beauty of nature is never far away!
In Doñana National Park, the star of the show for nature lovers, you can spend the day exploring its magnificent dunes and marshes – largest in Spain. You will certainly be surprised by the varied wildlife and the hundreds of species of birds.
If you are a wine lover, don´t miss a visit to one of the impressive bodegas (cellars) of the ‘Sherry Triangle’ – Jerez, Sanlucar de Barrameda and Puerto de Santa María – to taste and explore the history of the finest sherries in the world. Head into the mountains around Ronda, the Sierras de Málaga, to discover some surprising prize-winning reds from boutique vineyards or south for the sweet, gloopy Pedro Jimenez wines of Málaga – there’s truly something here for all tastes.
When to go to Andalucia
About the weather in Andalucia
Considered to be the hottest region in Europe, Andalucia is also a “land of light” with an average of about 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. It is mainly under the influence of the Mediterranean climate with mild winters, hot summers and irregular precipitation. However, this varies from west to east and from the inland to the coast and also depends on the altitude.
In the south-west, the Atlantic-facing Costa de la Luz is more humid and cooler whilst the Almerian coast, washed by the Mediterranean, becomes hotter and more arid.
The fertile Guadalquivir Valley welcomes you with high but pleasant temperatures and winds in Cadiz, getting warmer and warmer as you move inland towards Seville and Cordoba. At high altitudes the temperatures are more intense – harshly cold in winter and extremely hot in the summer.
Late March through to early June then mid September to early November are perhaps the best months to visit the region if you want to avoid the heat of the inland plain´s summer – temperatures are milder (pleasantly so) and you can even get a little rain at times. If, however, you’re a hot-house flower or would like to build some beach time into your travels, then the summer months – especially in Costa de la Luz – can be a good bet. In winter the Sierra Nevada is great for skiing and it can be easily combined with a citu visit or some time at the coast where mild weather can still be found.
Getting to Andalucia
By Sea
If you prefer to travel with your own car, you can reach the region by sea through the Northern ports of Bilbao and Santander. Our expert team will help you adapt the route to fit with your preferences – please call to discuss options.
By Air
Our Andalucia holiday destinations are well served by air from the UK.
There are direct flights to three cities in Andalucia:
- Malaga from Stansted, Glasgow, Manchester, Luton + others with Easyjet; from Edinburgh, Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester + others with Ryanair.
- Sevilla from Stansted, Glasgow or Dublin with Ryanair.
Madrid are also worth considering for Andalucia holiday destinations and there are high-speed train links to Córdoba, Sevilla and Málaga.
*More info – check the ‘Travel’ tab from within any particular tour for the best options for that trip or go to the ‘Things to See and Do’ pages for each province at the bottom of this page.
Getting around
A car is essential for getting around and to make the most out of the visit as many of the hotels and attractions are not easily accessed by public transport.
We usually include a hire car and we will provide full driving instructions, GPS co-ords for the accommodation and essential information on driving in Spain as well as a touring map of the area.
Alternatively you can use the train to get around. Please ask us about this option.
Eating and drinking in Andalucia
Amazing Andalucian Food
Andalucia´s identity has been shaped by countless influences which can not only be appreciated in its immense architectural heritage but also in its rich and varied gastronomy. In particular the region’s Moorish past and proximity to Africa have made their mark and differentiate the local cuisine from that of the rest of Spain.
The other main influence are the region’s truly wonderful ingredients – here you’ll find not only the world’s best olive oil, sherry wines and, of course, cured ‘Jabugo’ ham, but so much more . There’s delicious, fresh fish (including the highly prized blue-fin tuna) and seafood from the Atlantic and the Med and extraordinary meat dishes inland; top-quality fruits such as Huelva´s strawberries or even mangoes in Granada, wonderful goat´s cheese from Grazalema and simple grilled sardines from Málaga – just to mention the most popular delicacies.
And of course each province, subregion or city will surprise you with its specialities and local produce. Don’t miss a good “gazpacho”, a delicious “pescaíto frito” or the “tortillitas” of shrimp as you travel around – and once away from the tourist traps (you needn’t go far) you’ll find the generosity of the locals can be quite remarkable.
Due to its benign (not to say hot) year-round climate, it is quite usual to eat out in Andalucia. Meals are served quite late, especially in the warmer months but do like the locals and take a siesta and you’ll soon get into the rhythm, as well as avoiding the mid-day heat. If you are too hungry to wait for a full meal or just want to taste a selection of small dishes, then go out for tapas (reasonably priced, sometimes free, bar snacks), combined with the local wines, refreshing sangría or ice-cold beer can turn into a real feast!
Explore our favourite tours in Andalucia
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[introduction] => The classic tour of Moorish Andalucia. Discover the cities of the Sultans of El Andaluz and marvel at their magnificent heritage – the finest Arabic architecture of western Europe, vast landscapes of olives and oranges and narrow lanes filled with soulful Flamenco music.
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[title] => Day 6 & 7 – Granada
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[description] => The Alhambra Palace – city of the Nasrid Sultans
Atmospheric Albaicin with night time views to the Alhambra
Cathedral, resting place of the Catholic Kings
Wonderful bars, incredible tapas – many free!
Take a trip to the Sierra Nevada, mainland Spain’s highest mountains
Add a couple of nights in Málaga - the City of Museums and an elegant seaside escape
Add a stop in Ronda, Cádiz or Jerez
Or combine with a stay in Madrid - easy access from UK and worldwide plus fast train links to Sevilla and Córdoba
Ask about train travel between the cities - or a mix or car and train
3 World Heritage Sites in the historic town centre!
The Giralda tower & Cathedral – the world’s largest Gothic structure
The magnificent Alcázar Royal Palace dating to the 9th Century
Historic Santa Cruz, lively Triana, Plaza de España
Authentic Flamenco, tapas bars with hand-cut jamón…
The Great Mosque – immense, awesome and stunningly beautiful
Lose yourself in the Jewish Quarter’s winding lanes
Relax in the Moorish bath houses or with a glass of Montilla Moriles
Beautiful ‘patio’ courtyards festooned with geraniums
Roman remains from the city’s stint as capital of southern Iberia
Cathedral & Alcázar of Sevilla
Great Mosque of Cordoba
Granada's Alhambra Palace & Albaicin
World renowned Andalucian hospitality
Finest olive oil & cured ham in the world
Flamenco music, fiestas & fine sherries
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[description] => The circular route heads from chic Málaga and Granada deep inland to Ubeda, before following the river through Córdoba and Sevilla, south towards Cadiz then picking across the Grazalema mountains and Ronda, back to the start.
You’ll find great cities, high Sierra mountains, endless orange and olive groves as well as the legacy of great civilisations from Tartesians to the Moors – the only constant being the famous Andalucian vitality, humour and hospitality!
The full route takes two weeks but you can do as little, or as much, as you like.
[introduction] => The Guadalquivir river, into which flowed the riches of the Americas, forms the backbone of this wonderful two week tour of Andalucia.
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[title] => Day 1 & 2 – Malaga
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[description] => Eat, shop or stroll in style in the stylish new port area
Thyssen, Pompidou – art galleries galore
Tapas bars, street music, Flamenco shows
Dip into Axarquia – stunning scenery, pretty villages
Visit Antequera, Moorish heritage, unique ‘Torcal’ landscape
The Alhambra Palace – city of the Nasrid Sultans
Atmospheric Albaicin with night time views to the Alhambra
Cathedral, resting place of the Catholic Kings
Wonderful bars, incredible tapas – many free!
Take a trip to the Sierra Nevada, mainland Spain’s highest mountains
Spain’s finest Renaissance architecture
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003
Sierra de Cazorla, Spain’s largest nature reserve
Source of the Guadalquivir at the heart of the park
Traditional ‘Alferería’ pottery – moorish in origin
The Great Mosque – western Europe’s largest Islamic building
Lose yourself in the Jewish Quarter
Marvel at the patios overloaded with potted geraniums
Medina Azahara archaeological site of on the outskirts
Montilla – Moriles wines – handle with care!
Roman ruins of Hispania Ulterior & Baetica
Gateway to the New World & all its riches
3 World Heritage Sites in Sevilla’s Old Town!
Colossal Cathedral, Moorish Alcázar Palace & Giralda Tower
Carmona, Sevilla in miniature, just half an hour away
Thriving Flamenco culture & lively atmosphere of Barrio de la Santa Cruz
Cádiz, steeped in history, Europe’s oldest city
Doñana National Park one of Europe’s best bird reserves
Spectacular white beaches
Jerez; famous sherry wines and dancing horses
Moorish pueblos blancos, Véjer, Medina Sidonia Bolonia
Hemingway’s Ronda, the most famous of the ‘Pueblos Blancos’
Spain’s oldest bullring
Wonderful wildlife and birdwatching in the Sierra de Grazalema & Sierra de las Nieves
Pueblos Blancos: Grazalema, Olivera, Arcos de la Frontera, Zahara de la Sierra
Extend your stay at any of the stops - they are all worth it!
Swap Sevilla for Carmona and stay at its historic Parador
Or combine with a stay in Madrid or Toledo - easy access from UK and worldwide plus fast train links to Sevilla and Córdoba
Ask about train travel between the cities - or a mix or car and train
Call us to talk through all the options - we'd love to hear from you!
Malaga – Mediterranean seaside chic
Granada´s Alhambra Palace
Renaissance gems Ubeda & Baeza
Cordoba’s magnificent mezquita
Carmona & Sevilla, rich moorish heritage
Cadiz, white beaches and sherry
Grazalema, Ronda & the ‘Pueblos Blancos’
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The mile-high peaks and picture-postcard ‘White Villages’ of the Sierra de Grazalema are just a short drive inland as is the Alcornocales Nature Park – an undiscovered gem!
The suggested route takes ten nights but you can do as little, or as much, as you like.
[introduction] => Facing Africa in the southernmost part of continental Europe and home to Europe’s most ancient city, the province of Cádiz is small, yet endlessly fascinating!
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[title] => Day 1 & 2 – Cádiz, city and port
[introduction] =>
[description] => Catedral de Santa Cruz, with its iconic dome, one of the city's defining landmarks
Delicious seafood dishes, including fresh fish, shrimp, and the famous "pescaíto frito"
La Caleta Beach - picturesque urban beach located between two castles
Climb the Tavira Tower for a panoramic view of the city - also home to the Camera Obscura
Castles of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina
Fascinating sherry bodegas
World famous dancing horses in Jerez
Amazing seafood & the finest jamón
Doñana National Park - among Europe's most important wetland reserve
Check out the local Flamenco culture
Arcos de la Frontera with its dramatic 'eagle's nest' viewpoint
Sierra de Grazalema mountains - magnificent hiking and birdwatching
Medina Sidonia dating back to Phoenician times
Grazalema, delightful white village at the heart of the Sierra
Setenil de las Bodegas and Olvera - two more pearls...
A natural paradise, unspoilt by tourism
Spain’s most extensive cork oak woodlands
Wonderful walks, cycling, horse riding and donkey trips
Castellar de la Frontera - fortified white village at the gateway to the park
Dramatic caves, rock formations and waterfalls
Vejer de la Frontera, the best preserved of the Arab towns
The Cape of Trafalgar, scene of Nelson's famous victory
Stunning, dune-backed beaches, cooled by Atlantic breezes
Playa Bolonia, with the fascinating Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia
Tarifa - Europe's wind-surfing capital
Discover the "Golden Triangle" - Sevilla, Cordoba and Granada
Fly into Málaga and add a stop in the city - it´s well worth it!
Take advantage of the short distance and add a stop in lovely Ronda
Ask about superior rooms or a larger rental car
Call us to talk through all the options - we'd love to hear from you!
Cádiz, Europe's oldest city
Sherry towns of Jerez, Sanlucar and Puerto de Santamaría
Birdwatching and hiking in the Sierra de Grazalema
Windswept, surfy beaches of Costa de la Luz
The famous 'White Villages', Arcos, Grazalema, and many more...
Roman remains at Baelo Claudia
Doñana National Park, Spain's most important wetland reserve
Wonderful seafood including tuna from the famous Almadraba
Why our clients love our tours
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