Spend A Week Exploring Southern Spain With This Guide
Southern Spain is full of charm, history, and incredible landscapes.
From Moorish palaces to coastal towns, this itinerary covers the best places to visit in Andalusia.
Whether you’re drawn to Seville’s flamenco, Granada’s Alhambra, or the coastal beauty of Cádiz, this guide will help you make the most of your trip. This 7-day trip will explore Andalusia’s vibrant cities and hidden spots. We’ll see the region’s rich history and culture.
Why Visit Southern Spain?
The Andalusian region has something for every traveller. It’s a destination where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly.
Here’s why you should visit:
Rich History and Culture
Southern Spain has centuries of history reflected in its architecture, traditions, and daily life.
Moorish influence is visible in places like the Alhambra in Granada and the Mezquita in Córdoba. Flamenco music and dance originated here, making Seville a must-visit for culture lovers.
Annual events like the Feria de Abril in Seville and the Carnival of Cádiz bring the region to life.
Amazing Food and Wine
Andalusian cuisine is full of bold flavours and fresh ingredients.
Try tapas like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and gambas al ajillo.
Pair your meals with local wines, such as Sherry from Jerez or a bold Rioja.
Markets and local eateries offer authentic experiences, from churros con chocolate to fresh seafood.
Stunning Architecture and Landscapes
From historic palaces to dramatic coastal cliffs, Southern Spain is visually striking. Cities like Ronda sit atop cliffs with breath-taking views with bridges and structures that are hundreds of years old.
Málaga and Cádiz offer sandy beaches, while the Sierra Nevada mountains provide a rugged escape.
Architectural wonders like the Real Alcázar in Seville showcase centuries of craftsmanship.
Planning Your Journey Through Andalusia’s Heart
Planning is almost unavoidable in the Southern area of Spain, mostly because there are some amazing things to see that do tend to fill up quickly. The Alhambra for example needs to be booked well in advance which means you will have to plan at least some of your adventure.
Best Time to Visit Southern Spain
Weather plays a huge role in planning your trip. Different seasons offer different experiences and the weather can be anything from cool to stiflingly hot so each season will give you a totally different experience.
Spring and Fall for Ideal Weather
March to May and September to November offer warm temperatures and fewer crowds.
This is the best time for sightseeing, as places like the Alhambra can get packed in peak summer. Spring also brings blooming flowers and city festivals.
Summer for Beaches and Festivals
Temperatures soar above 35°C in July and August, making coastal areas the best escape.
Málaga, Cádiz, and Tarifa are perfect for beach lovers with Tarifa having the option of kite surfing almost year round. So if you are an active adventurer, you could add a few days in Tarifa to the itinerary and learn to kite surf.
Major festivals like Feria de Málaga take place in summer, adding energy to the cities. Just remember some of these locations like Seville can get up to 40°C (104°F) in the summer months.
Winter for Lower Crowds and Unique Experiences
December to February is a quieter season, with mild temperatures in most cities. Granada and the Sierra Nevada offer snow for those who enjoy winter sports.
This is also a great time for budget travelers, as prices drop outside peak season.
Getting Around: Transportation Options
Spain’s high-speed trains are great for traveling between cities. They’re comfortable and offer beautiful views. But, renting a car is also a good idea for exploring hidden gems. Here’s a quick look at travel times:
| Route | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Malaga Airport to Ronda | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Ronda to Seville | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Seville to Cordoba | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Cordoba to Granada | 2 hours 15 minutes |
This 7 day itinerary in Andalusia is just a starting point. Feel free to customize it based on your interests. Add extra days to make your own 2 week itinerary or spend just the week. Its up to you!
Day 1 – Valencia: City of Arts and Innovation
We are starting in Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, which is a must-see on your itinerary for south of Spain. It mixes old charm with new tech, giving travellers a special experience. From here we will head south but Valencia is easy to get to on the train from Madrid.
Historic City Centre Exploration
Begin in Valencia’s Old Town, or Ciutat Vella. Walk its cobblestone streets and admire the old buildings. Be sure to see the Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete tower for a great view.
Also, visit La Lonja de la Seda. It’s a UNESCO site known for its culture and design.
Modern Architecture and Cultural Sites
The City of Arts and Sciences is Valencia’s highlight. It’s a modern wonder with the Hemisfèric and Oceanogràfic (huge aquarium and an IMAX screen). It draws 4 million visitors each year and is really worth seeing.
For a natural break, explore the Turia Gardens. This 9-kilometer park was made from the Turia Riverbed and is a great walking route.
Consider doing a walking tour of the old town or a guided bike tour which gives you a little more range and you see a little more.
Culinary Experiences and Local Markets
Valencia’s food is amazing. Check out the Mercado Central, a huge market with over 1,000 stalls. Try horchata, a cool drink, and authentic paella, Valencia’s famous dish.
For affordable dining, visit Ruzafa. It’s a lively area with many restaurants and cafes. Or maybe do a cooking class which I love and are always fun. This one combines learning to cook Paella with a tour of the Mercado so well worth it.
Meals are relatively affordable in this area.
| Restaurant | Meal for Two | Price (Euros) |
|---|---|---|
| Vuelve Carolina (Tapas) | Dinner | 75 |
| Central Bar | Lunch | 25 |
| Restaurante Bon Aire (Paella) | Lunch | 40 |
Add Ons for Valencia
If you would like to extend your itinerary consider adding a day and doing a tour to the Caves of San Jose which is a great day out. Tours are at 9am or 1:30 pm so you could easily combine it with something else that day. Or alternatively, consider doing the hiking tour to the Fuente de Los Banos which is also great, but is a full day.
Day 2 & 3 – Granada: Moorish Splendour and Medieval Magic
Granada is a treasure in Andalusia, known for its Moorish beauty and medieval allure. It’s a city that takes you back in time. Here, Islamic designs meet Spanish traditions in a unique way.
Granada is really worth at least 2 full days so if you have time, I would suggest you adding on a day or two to your itinerary and spending some extra time in Granada. The Alhambra alone will take the most of a day so spending 3 nights instead of 2 will give you an extra full day in this great city.
Exploring the Alhambra Palace
The Alhambra is Granada’s most famous spot. It welcomes over 2 million visitors each year. This palace is famous for its Islamic architecture. Make sure to book tickets early and take a guided tour to learn about its history and design.
It is quite amazing and I was so glad we did a tour. If you have left your run a little late to purchase tickets, a tour might be the only way you can access the Alhambra, but the information alone is worth it. Honestly I wouldn’t recommend anyone does it without a guide. You learn so much.
Even if you get the audio guide, that will be worth it.
Albayzín Quarter Discovery
On your second day in Granda, explore the Albayzín, Granada’s old Arab area. Its narrow streets are filled with white houses and lead to secret plazas. For a stunning view, visit Mirador de San Nicolás at sunset. It offers a breathtaking view of the Alhambra against the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Visit Carrera del Darro, one of the most picturesque streets in the city.
Stop at El Bañuelo, an ancient Arabic bathhouse dating back to the 11th century.
For a unique experience, relax at a Hammam (Arab Bathhouse), where you can soak in warm waters and enjoy a traditional massage.
Local Flamenco Experience
Experience Andalusian culture with a flamenco show. Visit the cave venues in Sacromonte for a real flamenco experience. Flamenco’s passion and rhythm capture the heart of Granada and Andalusia.
There are many Flamenco shows to choose from but you can find heaps here and choose what suits your budget.
These are the 3 things I would absolutely do in Granada:
- Visit the Alhambra, originally built in the 9th century
- Explore the winding streets of Albayzín
- Experience flamenco in Sacromonte’s cave venues
Granada is a special place, blending Moorish beauty with medieval charm. From the Alhambra to flamenco shows, it offers unforgettable moments. These experiences show the true spirit of southern Spain.
Day 4: Cordoba: Ancient Capital of Culture
Cordoba is in the heart of Andalusia, showing Spain’s rich history. It was the capital of Islamic Spain and is a key stop on any southern Spain trip. The city’s mix of cultures and stunning buildings gives a peek into the past.
Personally Cordoba was a city I really loved. It’s got way less tourists than other cities in Southern Spain and it was really comfortable and beautiful. Both Brad and I loved Cordoba and still talk about it often.
The Mezquita, or Mosque-Cathedral, is Cordoba’s highlight. Built in the 8th century, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its red and white arches feels like stepping back in time. For a great view, climb the bell tower and of course if you would like to learn and not just visit, a guided tour will help with that.
The Jewish Quarter is close to the Mezquita. Its narrow streets and whitewashed houses are filled with charm. In May, the Patio Festival celebrates Cordoba’s culture.
End your day at the Roman Bridge. It offers views of the Mezquita lit up at night. It’s a beautiful place to watch the river.
“Cordoba is a living museum, where every street tells a story of Spain’s diverse cultural tapestry.”
You can see Cordoba’s main sights in a day. It’s a great stop on your Andalusia trip, easy to get to from other cities. The train from Granada takes just under two hours and there are multiple times per day they leave.
Try local foods like Salmorejo and flamenquín. They’re delicious and will give you a unique insight into the culture of this great city.
Day 5: Seville: Heart of Andalusian Tradition
Seville, the lively capital of Andalusia, is a treasure trove of southern Spain’s rich culture. It’s a great starting point for exploring the area. Here, you’ll find a mix of old-world charm and modern vibes.
Royal Alcázar and Cathedral
The Royal Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a marvel of Mudéjar architecture. It was built on a former Muslim fortress site. The palace is famous for its detailed carvings, unique mosaics and beautiful gardens.
Close by, the Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It’s home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb. Don’t miss climbing La Giralda for breathtaking views of the city.
Santa Cruz Jewish Quarter
Explore the Santa Cruz, Seville’s old Jewish quarter. Its narrow alleys are lined with white houses, secret plazas, and orange trees. It’s a romantic place to enjoy tapas and soak in the city’s vibe.
Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park
Plaza de España is a must-see on any southern Spain trip. Built in 1929, it’s a huge square with a Moorish-style building, a canal, and beautiful tiles. Next to it, Maria Luisa Park is a huge green space for a peaceful walk.
| Attraction | Key Feature | Time to Explore |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Alcázar | Mudéjar architecture | 2-3 hours |
| Seville Cathedral | World’s largest Gothic cathedral | 1-2 hours |
| Santa Cruz Quarter | Charming narrow streets | 2-3 hours |
| Plaza de España | Impressive tile work | 1-2 hours |
A Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour of the city is a great way to get your bearings and see the amazing architecture on offer. It wasn’t the best weather for our visit to Seville but we did the bus anyway and were really glad we did.
Day 6: Ronda And White Villages
Explore the White Villages route in Andalusia for a unique southern Spain experience. This path through pueblos blancos reveals authentic Spanish life and stunning views and when you add Ronda in to that day tour its epic.
You can do this either from Seville, or Malaga, however unless you have a car, it will have to be done as a tour. It is cheaper from Malaga as its much closer so that is worth taking into consideration.
You can get the bus from Seville to Ronda, but you will miss the white villages. If you are short on time this might be a good option though.
Day Tours To Ronda & White Villages From Seville
Ronda’s Dramatic Landscapes
Ronda, with its 35,000 residents, sits on a deep gorge’s edge. The Puente Nuevo bridge offers breathtaking views. It’s a key stop on any Andalusia tour.
Authentic Village Experiences
Travel through villages like Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, and Arcos de la Frontera. They have narrow streets and colourful houses. These villages show the Moorish history that lasted until the 1500s.
Local Gastronomy and Wine Tasting
Try Andalusian flavours on the White Villages route. Enjoy payoyo cheese or rabo de toro. Taste world-class sherries and visit Aracena for Iberian ham.
| Village | Notable Feature | Must-Try Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Ronda | Puente Nuevo bridge | Panoramic views of the gorge |
| Grazalema | Natural Park | Hiking trails |
| Zahara de la Sierra | Moorish castle | Local olive oil tasting |
| Arcos de la Frontera | Cliff-top old town | Flamenco show |
| Aracena | Iberian ham production | Ham tasting tour |
Day 7 – Malaga: Coastal Charm and Artistic Heritage
Malaga is a treasure in our 7 day itinerary of south Spain. It mixes the beauty of the coast with a rich cultural heritage. Founded around 770 BC, it’s one of Europe’s oldest cities, with a history that goes back millennia.
I began my day at the Picasso Museum, located in a 16th-century palace. Since Malaga is where Picasso was born, this museum is very special. I then explored the historic center, enjoying its winding streets and beautiful plazas.
The Malaga Cathedral, known as “La Manquita” because of its unfinished tower, took over 200 years to complete. It shows the city’s architectural beauty. Close by, the 11th-century Alcazaba fortress offers amazing views of the city and sea.
For a taste of local life, I visited the Mercado Central de Atarazanas. There, I tried traditional Andalusian dishes like ‘Pescaíto’ frito and gazpacho. As the sun set, I relaxed at La Malagueta beach, enjoying the local wine and watching the sunset.
If you are feeling like a great hike, you can hike the Caminito Del Ray from Malaga. However if you are feeling like a relax you should visit a Hammam. Oh man I LOVE Hammams. I got addicted to them in Morocco and go every time I visit Spain now. They are amazing.
The Hammam Al Andalus in Malaga is fantastic. Get a ticket that includes a massage for a very relaxing afternoon.
| Attraction | Year Established | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Picasso Museum | 2003 | Housed in 16th-century palace |
| Alcazaba | 11th century | Moorish fortress with panoramic views |
| Roman Theatre | 1st century BC | One of Malaga’s oldest monuments |
| Malaga Cathedral | 16th century | Unfinished tower, “La Manquita” |
Malaga’s mix of history, art, and coastal beauty makes it a must-see in southern Spain. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or relaxing on the beach, this city promises an unforgettable experience.
Tips For Your Southern Spain Itinerary
Budgeting for Your Trip
Southern Spain is more affordable than other parts of Western Europe. Expect to spend €50–€100 per day on mid-range travel.
Save money by eating tapas, using public transport, and booking attractions in advance.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Spanish people eat late, with lunch around 2:00 PM and dinner at 9:00 PM or later. Siesta from 2pm to 7pm is observed everywhere outside the main tourism areas. Don’t plan on a late lunch or an early dinner as you just won’t be able to get it.
Tipping isn’t required, but leaving small change is appreciated. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as not everyone speaks English, especially in smaller towns.
Accommodation Options
Some of the major tourist cities on this itinerary can be costly accommodation wise. Check out Booking.com for options to suit your budget and style.
Conclusion
As we finish our 10-day journey through southern Spain, I’m filled with excitement. We’ve seen so much, from Barcelona’s sunny streets to Andalusia’s white villages. This trip has been a mix of amazing experiences.
Our travels covered more than a few km, showing off the area’s varied landscapes and rich culture. We’ve seen incredible sights like the Mezquita Cathedral in Córdoba and the Alhambra in Granada. These places are full of history and beauty.
We’ve also enjoyed local foods and drinks. Tapas in Seville cost just €6, and coffee in Toledo’s Jewish Quarter was €2.25. The AVE train made traveling between cities fast, like Seville to Córdoba in 45 minutes.
While our trip was full of great moments, I think you should stay longer. A 10-14 day trip would let you enjoy Spain’s relaxed vibe more. The best times to visit are April, May, September, and October, with nice weather.
Exploring grand palaces or charming villages, southern Spain will win your heart. It’s a place you’ll want to come back to.
FAQ
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Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.