Summary of Destinations
Spain is a magnificent country renowned for its diverse offerings, ranging from stunning islands such as Ibiza, remarkable landmarks in Barcelona, to sensational sites in Northern Spain. With a myriad of attractions, the South of Spain presents ample options for all types of travelers, ensuring delightful experiences.
Over the years, our explorations in Spain have led to numerous visits—well over thirty—each occasion revealing distinct charm from every region. In the interest of enhancing your journey, we have compiled a list of exceptional locations to consider while visiting the South of Spain. Thus, you can devote more time to savoring Sangria, relishing beach moments, and diving into historical explorations.
Discover below some of the best destinations in the south of Spain to enhance your visit. Enjoy your travels in Spain!
1.) Seville
Seville holds a special place in my heart. It is a beautiful and historic city, large enough to explore over a weekend but compact enough to navigate on foot. For an enriching experience, it is essential to explore its city center, undoubtedly the best part.
Visitors should make time to see the breathtaking Alcazar of Seville, a structure that dates back to the time when Moorish inhabitants ruled southern Spain. Pre-purchasing Alcazar tickets is advisable, especially during peak times to avoid queues.
Afterward, acquiring the Seville Cathedral skip-the-line tickets is beneficial, particularly if visited around noon, as the sunlight can be intense during waits. The interior of this cathedral is exquisite and houses the tomb of the explorer Christopher Columbus.
For a more relaxed experience, consider taking a boat tour around Seville. It offers a tranquil way to appreciate the city’s beauty without the hassle of navigating through bustling streets.
For a delightful dining experience, consider visiting San Marco Santa Cruz Restaurant, where the salmon is particularly enjoyable.
If time permits, do not miss Palacio de las Dueñas, Metropol Parasol, and the iconic Plaza de España, especially enjoyable during a leisurely stroll in the late afternoon.
2.) Malaga
Many international visitors view Malaga as a gateway to the broader regions of southern Spain upon arrival by air. However, the city itself is a hidden gem worth exploring and one of the top places to visit in southern Spain.
Upon arrival, you will certainly desire to visit the Alcazaba, showcasing its Moorish heritage and offering breathtaking views of the city. Furthermore, do stop at the grand Gibralfaro castle, a magnificent structure from the 11th century. If visiting during midday, ensure you apply plenty of sunscreen and carry water, as the heat can be quite intense.
Following your visit, tickets to the Picasso Museum should be acquired to deepen your understanding of Picasso’s life in the city, and enjoy viewing some original pieces.
Also, be sure to arrange tickets for a tour of Malaga’s Cathedral rooftop. We thoroughly appreciated our tour around the rooftop, which provides a unique perspective of the city.
3.) Ronda
Ronda is among Spain’s oldest cities, featuring the iconic Puente Nuevo, an extraordinary bridge that spans a dramatic gorge in Ronda.
We have enjoyed multiple visits to Ronda and it is easily accessible by car from Malaga, taking approximately 95 minutes.
To simplify travel, consider joining this Ronda tour from Malaga, which includes transportation, making it an effortless way to experience the city in a single day.
As you explore the city, ensure that you stroll through Plaza de Toros, Puente Viejo, and Puente Arabe, taking in the spectacular views of Ronda from the valley below.
Ronda truly offers numerous viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the city in all its magnificence. Be sure to visit Mirador de Aldehuela, Mirador de Ronda, and the Alameda del Tajo Park, all of which are favorites of ours.
4.) Granada
Granada is yet another magnificent city in southern Spain that should not be missed. It is stunning and offers a wealth of exploration opportunities, making it suitable for both day trips and longer visits.
One of the city’s most renowned attractions is undoubtedly the Alhambra, a breathtaking sight to behold.
It is essential to secure your Alhambra tickets well in advance. There is a daily limit on the number of visitors, so planning ahead is crucial to ensure you don’t miss out.
Once inside, you will be enamored while strolling through its gardens, and visiting the Palacios Nazaries and the Generalife is an absolute must. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
Subsequently, consider visiting Mirador San Nicolas, Granada Cathedral, and Calle Caldereria Nueva for a rounded experience of this historic city.
5.) Cadiz
Often overshadowed by other southern Spanish destinations, Cadiz should not be disregarded. The city is rich in historical significance, and it features numerous family-run restaurants that contribute to its charm.
Upon your arrival, ensure you take time to see the Cathedral of Cadiz and visit the Cadiz Museum, where you can easily spend several hours. Notably, one of the 129 towers in the city’s older section is open to visitors, providing the opportunity to climb to the top for magnificent views across Cadiz.
For a peaceful outing, consider opting for a sunset catamaran tour in the bay, a delightful way to enjoy the scenery.
6.) Cordoba
Cordoba boasts a rich, colorful history, making it an ideal destination for those interested in the cultural merging prevalent in southern Spain.
Once a capital during Roman times, later influenced by the Islamic and Christian periods, Cordoba is replete with remarkable buildings that speak to its storied past.
Before visiting, make sure to secure tickets for the Mosque of Cordoba in advance. It is a striking landmark and tremendously iconic within the city.
Consider planning your visit during the spring season; numerous celebrations take place then, providing an enjoyable atmosphere.
For a casual dining experience, grab a snack at Sociedad Plateros María Auxiliadora, a cozy spot known for the best tortillas de bacalao in the area.
7.) Jerez de la Frontera
Known as the heart of Spanish equestrian culture, Jerez is deceptive in its allure, as it serves as a pivotal stop between Cadiz and Seville.
In addition to its equestrian significance, Jerez is also the birthplace of fortified sherry wine. You will encounter numerous tapas bars and watering holes in the city center, providing ample opportunities to sample tantalizing beverages.
Lastly, it’s advisable to purchase tickets to the traditional showcases at Jerez de la Frontera, where you can gain insights into the impressive artistry of Spanish riders and horses.
8.) Nerja
Located conveniently from Malaga and Granada, Nerja is a charming coastal destination worthy of exploration during your travels in southern Spain.
Famed for its splendid beaches, such as Playa de Maro and Calas Torre del Pino, it offers breathtaking views from locations like Mirador de Cerro Gordo that stretch across the Mediterranean Sea.
A visit to the Balcón de Europa is a must, offering fantastic panoramas of the Sierra de Tejeda and the Mediterranean coastline.
If you wish to extend your adventure, consider exploring nearby spots like Frigiliana and Cueva de Nerja. For the more adventurous, hiking up El Cielo offers splendid views of the entire Costa del Sol, making it a perfect road trip destination.
9.) Sierra Nevada
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Sierra Nevada is an exceptional place to visit in the south of Spain.
Home to Mulhacén, the highest mountain in continental Spain, this mountain range is known as a premier ski destination in Europe during the winter months. In summer, it transitions perfectly into a haven for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.
For terrific hiking trails, consider exploring this area in the Sierra Nevada Hills, where numerous trails begin.
Also, do not forget to visit Alpujarra; it is an exquisite destination for a few hours of exploration.
10.) Doñana National Park
Doñana National Park is a remarkable area to explore in the south of Spain, offering an unspoiled environment that is rejuvenating.
Our favorite spot is Playa de Castilla, a gorgeous beach with a lengthy stretch of pristine sand.
Additionally, don’t miss the stunning Playa de Malandar, ideal for a quieter beach experience. It is advisable to bring sufficient water and snacks to enjoy your day comfortably, as amenities nearby are limited.
