Winding cobbled streets, sun-drenched plazas, and wild mountain landscapes—explore the most magical places in Andalucía, where Moorish palaces, whitewashed villages, and golden coastlines capture the soul of southern Spain.
Andalucía is a land of golden light, where ornate fortresses rise above lively town squares, whitewashed villages cling to cliffs, and the scent of orange blossoms lingers in the air. From the wild beauty of Cabo de Gata to the timeless streets of Granada and Seville, there are countless places to visit in Andalucía that will capture your imagination.
While every corner has its charm, a few places stand out. For me, the best places to visit in Andalucía are Ronda, with its dramatic gorge; Seville, where grand palaces and flamenco echo through the streets; and Córdoba, home to the breathtaking Mezquita. But Andalucía is best explored slowly—one winding alley, golden sunset, and sunlit terrace at a time.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Andalucía
TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS
- SEVILLE: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- GRANADA: Shine Albayzín
- CORDOBA: Balcón de Córdoba
- NERJA: Hotel Balcón de Europa
HIGHLY RATED TOURS
MORE INSPIRATION: Al Andalus: Old-School Glamour Through the Heart of Andalucía
GETTING AROUND: Most of these places to visit in Andalucía are reachable via public transport. Find both bus and train tickets as well as the schedule on Omio.
22 Prettiest Places in Andalucía to Visit
1. Alhambra (Granada)
Perched on a hilltop overlooking Granada, the Alhambra is Andalucía’s crown jewel. This UNESCO-listed fortress-palace complex is a masterpiece of Moorish architecture, where intricate stucco carvings, serene courtyards, and trickling fountains are remnants of the powerful Nasrid dynasty. It is by far the most beautiful place in Andalucía!
Originally built as a small fortress in the 9th century, it was transformed in the 13th century into a lavish royal residence. Its most famous section, the Nasrid Palaces, showcases the pinnacle of Islamic artistry, with arabesque details and honeycomb domes that catch the Andalusian light. Make sure the battery of your camera is fully charged because you are going to be snapping hundreds of pictures here. At least I did.
Aside from the Nasrid Palaces you can also visit the surrounding gardens known as the Generalife Gardens. Think cypress-lined pathways, gurgling fountains and carefully curated fragrant flower bushes.
GOOD TO KNOW | The Nasrid Palaces have a strictly controlled access. Visitors must secure a timed ticket in advance to get inside. Tickets are limited so make sure to book them in advance online.
BEST VIEWPOINT | Perched high in Granada’s Albaicín quarter you will find the San Nicolás Viewpoint. It is the most iconic panorama of the Alhambra but does tend to get very busy. We popped into the little bar just underneath called El Huerto de Juan Ranas around sunset.
Address: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada ; Opening Hours: From April 1st to October 14th open from 08.30 to 20.00 & October 15th to March 31st open from 08.30 to 18.00.
Price: Standard Alhambra Gerneral ticket €19 (adults)
TICKETS | I highly recommend getting a fast-track Alhambra and Nasrid Palace ticket with a guide. The guide costs only €20 extra versus the regular ticket and it avoids having to cue!
Where to stay in Granada
- Views over Alhambra: Shine Albayzín // Apartamentos Alhambra
- Mid-Range Price, Central Location: Hotel Boutique Las Almenas // U-Sense Granada Centro
- Sustainable Hotel Budget Pick: Hotel Plaza Nueva // Casa Bombo
2. Plaza de España (Seville)
Set within Seville’s lush María Luisa Park lies one of the most striking places in Andalucía, the Plaza de España. A grand semicircular masterpiece built in an eclectic mix of Renaissance and Moorish Revival styles. Originally constructed for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, its sweeping design, intricate azulejo tiles, and ornate bridges never ceases to amaze me. Even after 5 visits!
The plaza’s curved façade represents Spain embracing its former colonies, while each province is honored with a hand-painted ceramic bench. Heading over at sunrise will ensure you can stroll along the colonnades and admire the colorful tilework in peace and quiet. If you head there at dusk, chances are high you will catch a flamenco concert underneath the arches.
I never tried it, but you have admired others gliding along the canal in their rented rowboat. The rental fee is €6 for 35-minutes. Boats can be rented from 10.00 to 20.00 during winter months and until 22.00 during the summer.
FUN FACT | Plaza de España has starred in films like Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and Lawrence of Arabia.
Where to stay in Seville
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- Mid-Range with View: Hotel Alcázar
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hotel Palace Seville
3. Ronda
They say good things come in small packages, the town of Ronda does a spectacular job of proving them right. Dramatically perched atop a deep gorge it is a veritable Andalucía must-see. Located in the Malaga province, Ronda is one of the oldest in Spain, with roots stretching back to the Celts, Romans, and Moors.
The town is split in two by the El Tajo Gorge, connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo. Built in the 18th century, this towering stone bridge offers some jawdropping views of the rugged Andalusian landscape. Beneath it, a hidden waterfall cascades into the Guadalevín River.
Due to time constraints I never managed to spend more than a handful of hours traipsing around the cobbled streets of Ronda. One day, I will book myself a few days in one of the many little B&B’s dotted around the village!
TIP | The beautiful vantage point over the bridge of Ronda can be found by typing in “Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda”. As you walk down the gorge, there is one viewpoint along the way which requires you to pay €5. Ignore this tourist scam, and simply continue heading down the path for a free and much better viewpoint
Where to stay in Ronda
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Parador de Ronda
- Mid-Range with View: Casa Duende del Tajo
- Sustainable Budget Pick: Catalonia Ronda
4. Mosque-Cathedral Monumental Site of Córdoba
The Mosque Cathedral of Córdoba or Mezquita is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Andalucía. Walking in you will instantaneously see the mix of Moorish and Christian architecture, a quintessential representation of Spain’s history. It might be hard to fathom but this little town was once the epicentre of Moorish rule.
Built in the 8th century, the mosque’s signature red-and-white arches are like a veritable forest. Deeper inside, the light dims, revealing the intricately carved mihrab, a dazzling masterpiece of gold and intricate calligraphy, marking the direction of Mecca.
At its core, a Gothic cathedral rises unexpectedly, inserted by King Ferdinand III after the Christian conquest in the 13th century. The sheer scale of this architectural feat is staggering, layers of marble, granite, and towering vaults. I have visited the Mezquita three times to date and each time my mind is boggled about the logistics: How in the world did they manage to squeeze in a Cathedral in between all these columns. Somebody was mighty motivated to make a statement here!
Address: Calle Cardenal Herrero, 1, 14003 Córdoba, Spain; Opening Hours: March to October from 10.00 to 19.00 (Monday to Saturday), November to February 10.00 and 18.00 (Monday to Saturday). Different opening hours apply on Sunday.
Price: Tickets start at €13, with discounts for students & visitors over 65: €7
TICKETS | I highly recommend getting a skip-the-line tickets with a guide for the Mosque-Cathedral
Where to stay in Córdoba
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Eurostars Patio de Cordoba // H10 Palacio Colomera
- Mid-Range with View: Balcón de Córdoba // Hesperia Córdoba
- Budget Pick: AL-QUIVIR Suites
5. Cádiz
The town Cádiz lies on a small peninsula in the south-west of Andalucía. This little coastal town is filled with weather-beaten palaces and has some of the best beaches in Andalucía. Places to visit are abundant, but my favorite has to be the Torre Tavira, the city’s highest watchtower. Incidentally, it also houses the very best viewpoint over Cádiz.
As one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Cádiz has a lot of stories to tell. The best way to uncover some of these closely guarded stories is by meandering through the maze of little streets around the cathedral, clambering up the bell tower, and catching your breath at a taberna by ordering a dish of the local specialty: pescaíto frito (fried fish).
Beyond its historic core, Cádiz invites slow exploration. Which is exactly why I love this little town so much. Stroll through Mercado Central to sample fresh seafood, then amble along the oceanfront promenade to Castillo de San Sebastián, a fortress perched dramatically above the waves. If time allows, take a boat to El Puerto de Santa María for sherry tastings. The latter is still very much on my bucket list for my next visit.
Where to stay in Cádiz
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Senator Cádiz // Tandem Palacio Veedor de Galeras Suites
- Mid-Range with View: Boutique Hotel OLOM (adults only) // La Terraza del Populo Little Apartments
- Budget Pick: Hotel Argantonio
6. Calahorra Castle (Granada)
Perched on a windswept hill in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada, Calahorra Castle is a sight to behold. This 16th-century fortress, built by the Marquess of Zenete, stands alone against the rugged landscape—a stark red-stone silhouette rising from the earth. It was one of Spain’s first castles to embrace Italian Renaissance design, blending military strength with unexpected elegance.
Its fortress-like exterior gives little away, but inside, a world of marble columns, grand archways, and delicate courtyards unfolds. Though privately owned, occasional guided tours allow visitors a rare glimpse into its past. Even if the doors remain closed, the journey here is worth it for the views alone. Check online for available tours before you go.
As the sun dips, the castle glows amber against the barren plains, a striking contrast to the snow-capped peaks beyond. Timeless, remote, and impossibly romantic, Calahorra Castle is easily one of the most beautiful places in southern Spain.
Address: Calle Mirador de la Sierra, 18512 La Calahorra, Granada, Spain
Where to stay in Granada
- Views over Alhambra: Shine Albayzín // Apartamentos Alhambra
- Mid-Range Price, Central Location: Hotel Boutique Las Almenas // U-Sense Granada Centro
- Sustainable Hotel Budget Pick: Hotel Plaza Nueva // Casa Bombo
7. Patios of Córdoba
Tucked behind unassuming doors, the Patios of Córdoba are a hidden world of cascading flowers, intricate ironwork, and centuries-old tradition. Introduced by the Romans and perfected by the Moors, these courtyards were designed to keep homes cool but have become a defining symbol of the city’s charm.
Every May, the Festival de los Patios breathes new life into the city, as locals swing open their doors to reveal hidden gardens bursting with flowers and trickling fountains. Recognized by UNESCO, the festival features around 50 patios, each an oasis of quiet beauty. Arrive early, as the narrow streets fill quickly with those eager to glimpse Córdoba in bloom.
Outside of May, the Palacio de Viana’s 12 courtyards offer a year-round escape, while the Patios Route in San Basilio lets visitors peek inside the city’s most enchanting private gardens. We explored Córdoba in June and picked up a brochure for the Patios Route, we ended up paying about €6 and this gave us access to 6 patios. Tickets can be bought at Calle San Basilio 14.
FOODIE TIP | If you are short on time but still want to see a Patio, head to the restaurant La Posada Del Caballa Andaluz which serves some of the best Salmorejo (creamy cold tomato soup with garlic) in the city!
Where to stay in Córdoba
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Eurostars Patio de Cordoba // H10 Palacio Colomera
- Mid-Range with View: Balcón de Córdoba // Hesperia Córdoba
- Budget Pick: AL-QUIVIR Suites
8. Cabo de Gata (Almeria)
Windswept cliffs, hidden coves, and an endless stretch of golden light; Cabo de Gata is Andalucía at its wildest. Tucked away in the province of Almería, this volcanic natural park is the driest place in Europe, where rust-red mountains tumble into the clearest waters and time moves at a slower pace.
Once a refuge for pirates and later a humble fishing region, today it’s a paradise for those seeking nature and solitude. Follow the coastal trails past jagged cliffs, kayak through sea caves, or dive into the impossibly blue waters of Playa de los Muertos. Inland, the sleepy village of Rodalquilar whispers stories of its mining past.
Almería city is just 40 minutes away, but to truly experience Cabo de Gata, you’ll want your own set of wheels. Sun-bleached, untamed, and wonderfully off the beaten path, this is the best of Andalucía.
Where to stay in Almeria
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Ohtels Gran Hotel Almeria
- Hotel with View: Catedral Almería // Casa flamenca a los pies de la Alcazaba
- Budget Pick: La Pita Guesthouse
9. Casa Pilatos (Seville)
Having a Sicilian partner means I have seen my fair share opulent mansions and palaces in Sicily, but trust me when I say you have not seen understated grandeur until you have visited the various “Casass in Seville. Granted they are all dotted around the same city, but they are too magnificent not to be mentioned individually.
Built in the 15th century by the Enríquez de Ribera family, Casa Pilatos is an eclectic mixture of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance design. Its name comes from an old legend: a noble resident once measured the distance between the palace and a nearby shrine to match the Stations of the Cross in Jerusalem. Step inside, and you’ll find the largest collection of early-made azulejo tiles in the world, 25 busts from ancient Rome, trickling fountains, and courtyards bathed in soft light.
I have been lucky enough to visit this Andalusian mansion many times over the years, and while it has surely become more well-known due to Social Media, it still remains relatively quiet, even in high season. The 10-minute walk from Seville’s cathedral might have something to do with that. Whatever the case, it is an absolute must-see in Andalucía.
Address: Plaza de Pilatos, 1, Seville, Spain; Opening Hours: Daily from 09.00 – 18.00
Price: €12 (complete house ticket), €10 (ground floor ticket). Book your tickets online.
Where to stay in Seville
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- Mid-Range with View: Hotel Alcázar
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hotel Palace Seville
10. Nerja (Malaga)
Nerja is the kind of place where time slows down. Perched on the edge of the Mediterranean, this coastal town still holds onto its fishing village soul, with whitewashed streets, lazy café mornings, and golden beaches framed by rugged cliffs. At its heart lies the Balcón de Europa, a scenic promenade built on the ruins of an old fortress, where the views stretch endlessly across the turquoise sea.
Just beyond town, the Cueva de Nerja hides a prehistoric world beneath the earth. These vast caves stretch for five kilometers, their chambers filled with towering stalactites and 40,000-year-old cave paintings—some of the oldest in the world. Guided tours lead you through the eerie beauty of this underground wonder.
Spend your days on Playa de Burriana, kayaking along hidden coves, or wandering the cobbled streets of Frigiliana, just a short drive away. Less than an hour from Málaga, Nerja is an effortless escape—and one of Andalucía’s most beautiful coastal towns.
Where to stay in Nerja
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Balcón de Europa // Parador de Nerja
- Mid-Range with View: Hostal Tres Soles // Hotel Plaza Cavana
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hostal Casa Mercedes // Hostal Marissa by Dorobe
11. Palacio de Las Dueñas (Seville)
The penultimate palace in Seville to make this list is the wildly extravagant Palacio de Los Dueñas, which has only recently opened its doors to the public. Palacio de Las Dueñas is a quiet sanctuary of Moorish archways, orange-scented patios, and intricate tilework.
Built in the 15th century, this noble mansion weaves together Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance influences, making it one of the most picturesque places in Andalucía. Once home to the powerful Dukes of Alba, it was also the birthplace of poet Antonio Machado, whose verses capture the palace’s faded grandeur. To this day it is privately owned by the House of Alba
Inside, shaded courtyards give way to halls filled with antiques, paintings, and centuries-old tapestries. Unlike the Alcázar, Las Dueñas feels intimate, I halfheartedly expected a member of the aristocratic family to pop up and offer me a glass of Vermouth. The fact this little gem is not jampacked with tourists adds to that overall feeling!
Make sure to check out the Sala de Tableo, where the Lake Duchess of Alba would practice Flamenco. Here you will find a traditional Flamenco dress and some vintage posters from the Real Betis Balompié Federation of Flamenco Peñas. It is a good 10-minute walk from Las Setas to get here.
the palace is open year-round, with tickets starting at €12. Self-guided tours let you explore at your own rhythm—because some places are best discovered slowly.
Address: Calle Dueñas, 5, 41003 Seville, Spain; Opening Hours: Daily. April to September 10.00 – 20.00 & October to March 10.00 – 18.00. Tickets: €12. Buy your tickets and audioguide online.
Where to stay in Seville
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- Mid-Range with View: Hotel Alcázar
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hotel Palace Seville
12. Caminito del Rey
Once one of the most dangerous trails in the world, the Caminito del Rey is now a breathtaking way to experience Andalucía’s wild side. Suspended along the cliffs of El Chorro Gorge, this narrow wooden walkway was originally built in 1905 for hydroelectric workers. Left abandoned for decades, it became infamous among thrill-seekers—until a careful restoration in 2015 made it safer, but no less spectacular.
The 7.7-kilometer trail takes around 3–4 hours, weaving past sheer rock walls, rushing rivers, and deep turquoise reservoirs. The highlight? A glass-floored hanging bridge, swaying 100 meters above the canyon. It’s not physically demanding, but if , like me, heights make your stomach flip, prepare to have wobbly legs.
Located an hour from Málaga, the trail is best reached by train to El Chorro station or by car. Advance booking is essential, as spaces fill quickly. Rugged, remote, and utterly unforgettable—this is one of Andalucía’s most epic hikes.
GOOD TO KNOW | Helmets are provided at the entrance and must be worn throughout the hike.
Start trailhead: The hike begins at the northern access point near El Kiosko Restaurant in Ardales. After parking, a short walk leads to the trail’s entrance
Tickets: Purchase them in advance on the official website. Ticket price: €10
13. Basílica de San Juan de Dios (Granada)
This Basilica gives new meaning to “dripping in gold”. Hidden behind a decidedly unassuming façade lies one of the most ornate baroque churches in Spain. Built in the 18th century to honor the city’s patron saint, somehow it has managed to fly under the radar of many a visitor. It was not until my third visit to Granada that I haphazerdly stumbled across it.
The main floor is lined with intricate altarpieces, carved wooden saints, and frescoes that stretch toward the domed ceiling. The towering gilded altar dominates the space, glowing under the soft candlelight. When we visited there was an option to see the frescoes up close with VR Googles.
Make sure you visit the second floor. The Camarín de San Juan de Dios is even more astonishing. Here, the saint’s relics rest amid golden mirrors and ornate reliquaries. From the gallery, you get a bird’s-eye view of the church in all its splendor.
Address: Calle San Juan de Dios, 19, 18001 Granada, Spain ; Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10.00 – 19.00; Sunday 10.00 – 12.00 and 13.30 – 19.00.
Tickets: €5
Where to stay in Granada
- Views over Alhambra: Shine Albayzín // Apartamentos Alhambra
- Mid-Range Price, Central Location: Hotel Boutique Las Almenas // U-Sense Granada Centro
- Sustainable Hotel Budget Pick: Hotel Plaza Nueva // Casa Bombo
14. Sierra de Grazalema
Set amid Cádiz and Málaga lies the rugged Sierra de Grazalema. Think dramatic limestone peaks towering over deep gorges and ancient forests. Declared Spain’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it holds the title of the wettest place in Andalucía, and even Spain! Practically this means you will fund a lush, green landscape unlike anywhere else in the south.
The Garganta Verde trail ( 5km, takes around 3 hours) leads through a spectacular canyon to a hidden cave, while the Pinsapar Trail ( 11km, takes around 4 hours) winds through a rare Spanish fir forest, a relic from the Ice Age. High above, griffon vultures glide eerily on the thermals, watching over this untouched wilderness.
The whitewashed village of Grazalema is the perfect base, just two hours from Seville by car. Some trails, like Pinsapar, require advance permits. Documents can be requested at El Bosque Visitor Center. In peak hiking season access is limited to preserve the natural habitat so getting your permit in advance is essential.
15. Casa de Salinas (Seville)
On my latest visit to Seville I made it my mission to walk into as many Andalucían mansions as possible. Casa de Salinas had been on my list of places to visit for a long time, and I am so glad I finally made it here. The mansion dates back to the 16 th-century and is still privately owned by the Salinas family.
This beautifully preserved home is built, like so many of the other palaces, is an enchanting mix of Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance styles. It truly is one of the prettiest places in Andalucía, yet somehow many visitors pass by without ever knowing it’s there!
Inside, intricate azulejo tiles cover the walls, archways frame peaceful patios, and antique furniture rests beneath carved wooden ceilings.
While the ground floor can be visited without a guide, the first floor is closed to the public unless you have a member of the staff with you. Casa de Salinas runs small guided tour lasting around 30 minutes. The tour runs you through both the family’s history and the exquisite craftsmanship of the home. It is worth sticking around for the tour!
Address: Calle Mateos Gago, 39, 41004 Seville, Spain; Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00 – 18.00 (Closed Saturday and Sunday)
Tickets: €8
Where to stay in Seville
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- Mid-Range with View: Hotel Alcázar
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hotel Palace Seville
16. Colomares Castle (Benalmádena)
Perched on a hilltop in Benalmádena, Colomares Castle looks like something from a fairytale. Ironically it turns out it is actually one of Andalucía’s most unusual modern monuments. Yep, you read that right: Modern!
Built between 1987 and 1994 by Dr. Esteban Martín Martín, this whimsical castle is a tribute to Christopher Columbus and his voyages to the New World. In terms of architectural style, you can find a bit of just aout everything: Blending Gothic, Romanesque, Mudéjar, and even Byzantine influences.
Though it might look like an ancient fortress from afar, up close it soon becomes clear that Colomares Castle is more of an artistic monument. Wander through its intricate passageways, admire the detailed stonework, and find what is said to be the world’s smallest church, tucked within the castle’s walls. The hilltop location also offers panoramic views over the Costa del Sol.
Address: Finca La Carraca, Carretera Costa del Sol, s/n, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain; Opening Hours: Vary depending on the season. Make sure to check out the official website before you go. Closed on Monday year-round.
Tickets €3
17. Jerez de la Frontera
Dit someone say Sherry? Jerez de la Frontera has been producing its famous fortified wine for centuries, and a visit isn’t complete without stepping into one of its many bodegas. By mid-morning, it’s entirely normal to have sampled a glass (or two), letting the nutty, caramel notes linger as you wander the city’s sun-drenched streets.
Beyond sherry, Jerez is famous for its equestrian heritage. The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art hosts performances showcasing Spain’s finest dancing horses. Many a friend has gone to see the performance because “it’s tradition”, personally I am not a fan of anything which involves animals dancing around. To each their own!
What I did really like was the Alcázar de Jerez, not so much for the architecture, but more for the panoramic views over the city and the old pharmacy museum tucked inside (tickets costs €5 per person).
If you find yourself with a bit of time on you hands, wander over to the train station which dates back to 1854, when one of Andalucía’s first railway lines was established between Jerez and El Puerto de Santa María to transport sherry for export to the UK
18. Setenil de las Bodegas (Cadiz)
Located just 20 minutes from Ronda and 90 minutes from Málaga lies one of the most unusual places to visit in Andalucía. Setenil de las Bodegas is a little town carved into the cliffs of Cádiz province. Unlike the traditional white villages of the region, Setenil’s houses are built directly into the overhanging rock, making for a rather dramatic streetscape.
Originally a Moorish settlement, Setenil’s strategic location made it a fortress town during the Reconquista. Today, it’s a place to wander, ducking beneath massive rock formations on Calle Cuevas del Sol, where tapas bars and cafés sit in the shade of limestone cliffs. Not vegetarians might want to try the local chorizo al vino and sample wines produced in the area.
For panoramic views, climb to the Castle of Setenil, a remnant of its Moorish past dating back to the 12th century. The fortress played a crucial role in the final battles of the Reconquista, holding out against Christian forces to 1484. Today you can visit the Torreón del Homenaje (€1), the main watchtower.
Where to stay in Cádiz
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Senator Cádiz // Tandem Palacio Veedor de Galeras Suites
- Mid-Range with View: Boutique Hotel OLOM (adults only) // La Terraza del Populo Little Apartments
- Budget Pick: Hotel Argantonio
19. Baeza & Ubeda
Deep in Jaén’s olive country, Baeza and Úbeda are two of the lesser-known places in Andalucía, where faded grandeur meets slow, sun-drenched streets. These twin Renaissance towns flourished in the 16th century, their palaces and churches built with the wealth of Spain’s golden age. Today, they sit quietly, their beauty largely undiscovered by those rushing to Andalucía’s bigger cities.
Úbeda is all grand facades and sweeping plazas, its Sacra Capilla del Salvador standing proudly in the heart of Plaza Vázquez de Molina. Just a short drive away, Baeza feels softer, its honey-colored Santa María Cathedral anchoring a maze of stone alleyways that open onto views of rolling olive groves.
Time slows here. Long afternoons are spent sipping local wine, drizzling golden aceite de oliva over crusty bread, and soaking up history without the crowds. Just 45 minutes from Jaén, these two towns are best explored by car.
20. Mocajar
Perched above the Almería coastline, Mojácar is one of the most captivating villages to see in Andalucía – a tangle of whitewashed houses, flower-filled alleys, and Moorish archways spilling down the hillside. Settled for over 4,000 years, it was a key stronghold during Al-Andalus – the period of Muslim rule in Spain (711-1492).
Unlike Andalucía’s more famous pueblos blancos, Mojácar’s setting is strikingly different—surrounded by arid, desert-like landscapes rather than rolling green hills. Wander through the old town to Plaza Nueva for magnificent mountain views, then climb to Mirador del Castillo to see the Mediterranean shimmer below. Down at Mojácar Playa, long sandy beaches and lively chiringuitos offer the perfect place to unwind.
Just 1.5 hours from Almería by car or bus, Mojácar feels blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Whether exploring its historic streets or soaking up the sea air, it’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left.
Where to stay in Mocajar
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: ALEGRIA Palacio Mojacar – Adults Only
- Mid-Range with View: Boutique Hotel El Olivar // Casaflor
- Seaside Location Budget Pick: Apartamento Guadalupe
21. Royal Alcazar of Seville
In the very heart of the historic center of Seville lies the Royal Alcázar. I have visited 3 times so far, and every time this palace with its tiled archways and sun-dappled courtyard stops me in my tracks. Once a Moorish fortress, this extraordinary palace became the jewel of Al-Andalus, later transformed by Spanish kings into a fusion of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Today, it remains a working palace – the oldest in Europe still in royal use – and the most visited place in Andalucía.
Stepping through its gates, the first thing you will notice is how the city’s noise simply fades away. In the Patio de las Doncellas, delicate columns frame intricate gardens, while the Hall of Ambassadors shimmers beneath a golden dome, designed to impress visiting rulers. Beyond the palace, the Alcázar gardens are a maze of hidden fountains, citrus trees, and shaded corners that feel worlds away from Seville’s bustle.
GOOD TO KNOW | The Alcázar is best explored early in the day before the crowds arrive. Booking ahead is essential, unfortunately, a place this magical is no secret.
Address: Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Seville, Spain; Opening Hours: Daily from October to March 09.30 – 17.00 and April to September 09.30 – 19.00
Tickets: €14.5 (adults); €7 for students and seniors.
GET YOUR TICKETS | Get the skip-the-line tickets for both the Alcazar and the Cathedral of Seville. For just €20 more than the combined tickets, you get to avoid the cue and learn something from a local guide!
Where to stay in Seville
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Hotel Colón Gran Meliá
- Mid-Range with View: Hotel Alcázar
- Central Location Budget Pick: Hotel Palace Seville
22. Malaga
For years, I thought Málaga was little more than a gateway; just another sun-drenched coastal city catering to budget travelers and those seeking all-inclusive escapes. But spend a little time here, and you’ll quickly realize it’s a place of unexpected depth, with a wonderfully vibrant food scene and some world-class museums.
Founded by the Phoenicians nearly 3,000 years ago, Málaga is one of Europe’s oldest cities, shaped by Roman amphitheaters, Moorish fortresses, and grand Spanish boulevards. The Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle offer breathtaking views over the city, while the Picasso Museum pays homage to the city’s most famous son.
Beyond history, Málaga is about slow Mediterranean living. Stroll along Muelle Uno, sip sweet wine in a centuries-old bodega or unwind on Playa de la Malagueta.
Where to stay in Malaga
- Sustainable Luxury Pick: Molina Lario // Palacio Solecio, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World
- Mid-Range with View: Soho Boutique Los Naranjos // Anahita Boutique Hotel
- Central Location Budget Pick: Ecopausa Beatas Studios
Map of Beautiful Places in Seville
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Andalucía are located.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Andalucía
CHOOSE ECO-CERTIFIED ACCOMMODATIONS:: Opt for lodgings with recognized sustainability certifications, such as the “S for Sustainable Tourism” label developed by the Institute for Spanish Tourism Quality (ICTE). This certification ensures establishments adhere to sustainable practices aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
DINE SUSTAINABLY: Choose restaurants that source ingredients locally, ensuring freshness and supporting regional agriculture. Look for establishments participating in the “Q de Calidad Turística” certification, which recognizes excellence in tourism services, including sustainable dining practices.
VISIT BLUE FLAG BEACHES: Andalucía boasts numerous Blue Flag-certified beaches, recognized for their high environmental and quality standards. Enjoying these beaches ensures you’re supporting areas committed to maintaining ecological integrity.
SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISANS AND MARKETS: Engage with Andalucía’s rich cultural heritage by purchasing locally crafted products. Visiting weekly markets not only provides unique souvenirs but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with mass-produced goods
CONSERVE WATER: Andalucía is a region prone to drought, especially in the blistering heat of the Summer. Be mindful of how you use water.
USE A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE: Always bring a reusable water bottle with you to fill at the tap, water is drinkable from the tap all around the region.
Practical Tips for Visiting Andalucía
What is the nicest part of Andalucía
Andalucía is a veritable treasure trove of places to visit. Head to Seville and Granada for Moorish palaces, Cabo de Gata and Sierra de Grazalema for wild landscapes, and Málaga and Mojácar for sun-drenched coastlines.
What are the best towns to visit in Andalucía
Some of the best towns to visit in Andalucía are Ronda for its dramatic gorge, Úbeda and Baeza for Renaissance charm, Setenil de las Bodegas for its cave houses, and Mojácar for whitewashed coastal beauty. Each offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and landscapes.
What are the most visited places in Andalucía
The Alhambra in Granada, Seville’s Alcázar, and Mezquita of Córdoba are the most visited places in Andalucía, drawing millions each year. Other favorites include Málaga’s beaches, Caminito del Rey for adventure, and Jerez de la Frontera for its famous sherry bodegas.
How many days do I need to explore Andalucía
To explore Andalucía properly, you’ll need at least 7 to 10 days. This allows time for major cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, plus smaller gems like Ronda, Mojácar, or Setenil de las Bodegas. With two weeks, you can dive deeper into nature and coastal spots.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING SPAIN
TENERIFE: 4 Day Guide to Tenerife Island
NORTHERN SPAIN: The complete guide to taking the luxury Costa Verde Express train
NORTHERN SPAIN: 12 Unmissable things to do in Asturias
SOUTHERN SPAIN: Traveling through Andalucia aboard the luxury train Al Andalus
Nicest Places in Andalucía: Pin it
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