Things to do in Andalucia

Things to do in  Andalucia

Citrus-scented splendor

Architectural marvels, bright blue oceans, dramatic hills—to visit Andalucia is to just scratch the surface. From the iconic streets of Seville to the historic walls of the Alhambra, Andalucia is packed full of architectural marvels and beautiful landscapes. The region’s arabic history and proximity to the ports of northern Africa give Andalucia a wholly unique feel both culturally and culinarily, with no shortage of things to do for both first-time and repeat visitors.

Top 15 attractions in Andalucia

Royal Alcázar of Seville (Real Alcázar de Sevilla)

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Sights across the entire Spanish south have been shaped by centuries of Moorish and Catholic influence, and in few places is this more evident and captivating than at the Royal Alcázar of Seville (Real Alcázar de Sevilla). This UNESCO World Heritage Site’s sprawling complex is made up of several features; the most picturesque is arguably the Patio de las Doncellas, with its tranquil ponds that reflect the intricate mudéjar plasterwork for which the palace is especially noted.More

Alhambra (Alhambra de Granada)

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Built on a hill overlooking Granada and set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, the Alhambra (Alhambra de Granada) is a sprawling complex of intricately decorated palaces, pristine gardens, and a once-mighty fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site was constructed during the Nasrid Dynasty and later partially destroyed and rebuilt by King Charles V. With its mix of Renaissance and Moorish architecture, the Alhambra Palace is the most sought-after attraction for visitors to Granada, sitting high on most must-see lists for Andalucia and Spain as a whole.More

The Giralda (El Giraldillo)

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There is no more representative symbol of Seville’s layered history than the 322-foot (98-meter) The Giralda (El Giraldillo). The bell tower of the city’s cathedral stands a little apart from the main building; it was once the minaret of a mosque that stood on the site before it was razed to make way for the cathedral.More

Generalife Gardens

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The 13th-century Generalife served as a summer retreat for Nasrid kings when they needed a break from palace affairs. From its perch on Cerro del Sol (Hill of the Sun), the series of terraces, promenades, and gardens spread across 74 landscaped acres (30 hectares) of the Alhambra complex afford some of the best views over Granada.More

Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de la Sede)

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The world’s largest Gothic cathedral, built atop the remains of a mosque, the Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede) features a spectacular gold altarpiece in its main altar depicting 36 scenes from the life of Christ, as well as the tomb of Christopher Columbus, works by Goya and Murillo, and the dramatic Giralda Tower.More

Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba)

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Originally the site of the Christian Visigoth Church San Vicente dating back to AD 600, the Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba) stands as the city's most proud monument and one of the most exquisite Islamic structures in the Western world. Learn about its rich history while taking in the 850 columns of jasper, onyx, marble, and granite.More

El Caminito del Rey

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One of Andalucia’s top attractions, El Caminito del Rey is a narrow hiking path known for its nearly 2-mile (3-km) stretch of man-made boardwalks and glass footbridges that hug the sides of sheer cliffs and hang over river gorges. The roughly 3-hour hike takes you on paths 350 feet above the Guadalhorce River, offering stunning views of the Gaitanes Canyon (Desfiladero de los Gaitanes).More

Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro)

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Perched high up on Mont Gibralfaro, Castillo de Gibralfaro offers commanding views of the city of Malaga and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally built by the Moors in the 10th century, the castle is one of Malaga’s best-known sights and is featured on the city’s flag.More

Malaga Alcazaba

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One of Málaga’s most popular attractions, the Alcazaba is an atmospheric Moorish palace and fortress with ornamental gardens. Take in panoramic views of the city as you marvel at the ingenious design tricks the Moors used to protect their stronghold.More

Plaza de España

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Designed for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1929, Seville’s grandiose Plaza de España is a semicircular public square brimming with brick and tile fountains, canals, and foot bridges, giving it the nickname Venice of Seville. Renaissance and neo-Moorish towers sit at either end of the plaza, which is situated within Maria Luisa Park.More

Genovés Park (Parque Genovés)

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Located in the northwestern corner of Cadiz, Genovés Park (Parque Genovés) is a lovely green oasis by the sea. Built in the 19th century, it's the largest park in the historic center, and boasts more than 100 species of plants, complex topiary, a man-made lake with a waterfall and grotto, commemorative statues, and an outdoor theater.More

Malaga Cathedral (Cathedral de la Encarnación)

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Built between 1528 and 1782, after Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand expelled the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula, Málaga Cathedral (Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga) is one of the city’s top historic landmarks. Designed by architect Diego de Siloé, the cathedral is a unique combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque styles.More

Santa Cruz

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Santa Cruz is Seville’s historic Jewish Quarter, a barrio filled with whitewashed buildings and some of the city’s most popular sights, including Giralda, the bell tower of Seville Cathedral, and the Real Alcázar. Meander down streets, stopping in bodegas and art galleries to enjoy the cultural and architectural richness of this barrio.More

Palace of Charles V (Palacio de Carlos V)

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During a visit to Granada in 1526, King Charles V (Carlos V) chose the Alhambra as the site of his future royal residence. The Palace of Charles V (Palacio de Caros V) stands in stark contrast to the style of the surrounding Moorish Alhambra. It is notable for its 2-level columned circular courtyard and surrounding square structure.More

Córdoba Synagogue (Sinagoga de Córdoba)

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Located in the heart of Córdoba’s Jewish Quarter, and just blocks away from the Mezquita, the Córdoba Synagogue (Sinagoga de Córdoba) is the Juderia's (Jewish Quarter’s) main attraction and is a one-of-a-kind site in the Andalusia region. Built in the 14th century, the small synagogue houses a courtyard, prayer room, and women's gallery.More

Top activities in Andalucia

Skip The Line Alhambra and Generalife Guided Tour
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Cathedral, Alcazar and Giralda Guided Tour with Priority Tickets
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Alhambra Complete: Ticket Skip-the-Line Nasrid Palace and Generalife with Guide
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Alhambra & Generalife Skip the line Small Group including Nasrid Palaces
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Alcazar and Cathedral of Seville Tour with Skip the Line Tickets
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Gibraltar Rock Tour from Seville

Gibraltar Rock Tour from Seville

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Alhambra Palace and Albaicin Tour with Skip the Line Tickets from Seville
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Alhambra and Generalife Skip-the-Line Ticket with Official Guide
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Cordoba: Mosque,Cathedral, Alcazar & Synagogue with Tickets
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Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces Skip the Line Entrance from Seville
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Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Private Tour from Malaga
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The Genuine Malaga Wine & Tapas Tour
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All about Andalucia

When to visit

Andalucia sees some of continental Europe’s warmest temperatures—and if you can’t stand the extreme heat (or crowds), it’s better to avoid summer. Instead, visit in the spring shoulder season for sun, warmth, orange blossoms, and major events like the Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) in April. Alternatively, Andalucia is an ideal destination for winter sun, and it’s also particularly festive in the lead-up to Christmas.

Getting around

Arrive in the city by flying into the Seville Airport or taking the train to Seville Santa Justa Train Station. Walking and biking are the easiest ways to get around, with the SEVici bike-share system offering around 250 stations in Seville. The Seville Metro is working to expand its service, but at the moment, it only has one line, which is not really useful to visitors—instead, take the Metro-Centro tram or TUSSAM bus. Andalucia’s capital and largest city, Seville is a quick, direct train journey to nearby destinations like Córdoba, Cadiz, and Granada. To explore the Costa del Sol, head to Málaga, which has an international airport and is the nearest major hub to resort towns like Marbella.

Traveler tips

Andalucia is the home of sherry, the fortified wine that has thousands of years of history. To discover more about sherry’s unique production methods—and to taste a number of traditional styles, including fino, manzanilla, palo cortado, oloroso, and pedro ximénez—head to Jerez de la Frontera, the capital of sherry production. In the small city, you can visit producers (or bodegas) for tours and tastings and do additional samplings at local sherry bars.

Local Currency
Euro (€)
Time Zone
CEST (UTC +1)
Country Code
+34
Language(s)
Catalan
Attractions
135
Tours
2,615
Reviews
97,147
EN
30ce56ed-6d2a-4f26-9e93-1a95bb43f334
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People Also Ask

What is Andalucia famous for?

Andalucia, a large region in the south of Spain, is famous for its scenic coastline, the charming cities of Seville and Granada, and as the birthplace of flamenco. It is also known for its Moorish history, as seen in landmarks such as the Alhambra, a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Where should I base myself in Andalucia?

There are several places to base yourself in southern Spain’s Andalucia. History buffs may prefer Seville or Granada, both home to important historic landmarks. Sunseekers may gravitate to the coastline, including the city of Malaga or a smaller town like Marbella.

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What is the most visited place in Andalucia?

Seville is the most visited place in Andalucia. This region in the south of Spain is also home to top landmarks such as the Alhambra, a popular Unesco World Heritage Site in the city of Granada. Other destinations include Malaga and the beach towns along the Costa del Sol.

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What is the best month to visit Andalucia?

The best months to visit Andalucia for mild temperatures and fewer crowds are May and October when the weather is warm but not hot and crowds are less likely. The summer months are a very popular time to visit, but temperatures can reach upwards of 100°F (38°C).

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How hot is it in Andalucia?

Temperatures vary throughout the year in Andalucia, though summer temperatures can be very hot and reach highs of more than 100°F (38°C). Travelers seeking milder temperatures should consider travel in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, or even in the cool winter months.

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What can I do in Andalucia for free?

There are many free things to do in Andalucia. This region is home to several historic destinations that are free to explore, including in Seville, Granada, Marbella, and Malaga. Beaches, coastal parks, and hiking trails are free. Many attractions with an entrance fee also offer free entry at certain times of week.

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