What to Do in Andalusia? 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Andalusia Spain!
Andalusia, in southern Spain, is one of Europe’s most captivating regions. Its historic cities, Moorish palaces, white villages, and stunning natural parks make it unforgettable.
You’ll find lively streets filled with flamenco, centuries-old architecture, and some of Spain’s most dramatic scenery all in one place.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the 23 most beautiful places to visit in Andalusia, plus key travel tips to help you plan your trip.
Where to Stay in Andalusia
Ready to discover Andalusia? Here are the 3 main locations I recommend for your stay in Andalusia:
⭐️ Best Overall – Seville: The city has everything, stunning landmarks, vibrant culture, great food, and easy access to other Andalusian cities. I recommend room Select Tetuán in the old town as the perfect home base here.
❤️ Best for Couples – Granada: The most romantic town for couples, book the very central Hotel Párraga Siete for the best stay.
👨👩👧👦 Best for Families – Malaga: For the best family vacation, Malaga is the right pick, especially if you choose this place.
Map of the Best Places in Andalusia
I’ve gathered the 22 best places to see in Andalusia on a map to help you travel the region easily and make sure you don’t miss anything.
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No spam, unsubscribe anytime.If you want to know more about these best places in Andalusia, keep reading below. You’ll find information about each spot, along with photos, so that you can easily decide if you want to visit or not.
The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Andalusia
1. Alhambra & Granada
The Alhambra is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Spain, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture sitting high above Granada.
With its intricate carvings, stunning courtyards, and peaceful gardens, it feels like stepping into another world. The blend of history, craftsmanship, and panoramic views makes it an unforgettable experience.
The town of Granada itself is just as captivating. The Albaicín is perfect for wandering through whitewashed streets, while Sacromonte is the heart of flamenco, where cave houses come alive with music and dance.
Read more: Full Guide to Visit the Alhambra
2. Seville & the Real Alcazar
The Real Alcázar is one of the most spectacular castles in Spain, right in the heart of Seville.
A stunning mix of Moorish and Christian architecture, it’s filled with intricate arches, colorful tilework, and serene courtyards. It’s also the oldest royal palace in Europe that’s still in use, making it even more special.
Seville, the capital and largest city in Andalusia, is full of life and history. The Giralda tower dominates the skyline, flamenco fills the air, and its historic streets lead to grand plazas and hidden patios shaded by orange trees.
Read more: 2-Days Itinerary in Seville
3. Cordoba & the Mezquita
The Mezquita of Córdoba is another fascinating landmark in Spain, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral that reflects the city’s rich history.
Inside, endless rows of red-and-white arches create an almost hypnotic effect, a reminder of Córdoba’s time as the capital of Islamic Spain. The later addition of a Renaissance cathedral in the heart of the mosque makes it even more unique.
Beyond the Mezquita, Córdoba is a city of charming patios, winding whitewashed streets, and hidden squares. The Jewish Quarter is perfect for wandering, while the Roman Bridge offers stunning views at sunset.
4. Ronda
Ronda is one of the most dramatic towns in Andalusia, perched on a clifftop with breathtaking views. Its most famous landmark, the Puente Nuevo, towers over the El Tajo gorge, connecting the old and new parts of the city.
But Ronda is more than just its views. It’s home to Spain’s oldest bullring, historic palaces, and charming whitewashed streets.
With its mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s the kind of place that pulls you in and makes you want to stay a little longer.
Read more: Best Things to Do in Ronda
5. Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey is one of the most thrilling hikes in Spain, a walkway clinging to the cliffs of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.
Originally built for workers in the early 1900s, it was once known as the world’s most dangerous path. Today, it’s been restored and is completely safe, but the adrenaline rush remains.
The trail runs along steep rock walls, crossing narrow bridges with breathtaking views of the gorge below. If you’re up for an unforgettable adventure, this is one of Andalusia’s most exciting experiences.
6. Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is one of Andalusia’s most stunning coastal landscapes, with volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters. This protected area feels untouched, with rugged desert-like scenery that meets the Mediterranean.
The park is home to some of Spain’s best beaches, like Playa de los Genoveses and Playa de Monsul, where golden sand and turquoise water create a postcard-perfect setting. Inland, whitewashed villages like Agua Amarga add to the charm.
If you love nature, wild beaches, and dramatic coastal views, this place is unforgettable.
7. El Torcal de Antequera
El Torcal de Antequera is one of the most unique natural landscapes in Andalusia, famous for its otherworldly limestone rock formations.
Shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion, the rocks have formed bizarre, stacked shapes that make the whole area feel almost surreal. Several hiking trails take you through the park, offering incredible views and the chance to spot wildlife like ibex and vultures.
Whether you’re into photography, nature, or just exploring something completely different, this place is an unforgettable experience.
8. Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas is a must-see for its striking architecture, where houses, shops, and restaurants are built directly into massive rock overhangs.
Instead of carving into cliffs, the town simply adapted to its surroundings, creating streets where stone ceilings hang dramatically overhead.
A walk along Calle Cuevas del Sol leads to lively cafés tucked beneath the rock face, offering a setting unlike anywhere else in Spain. Above the town, a medieval castle provides sweeping views of the whitewashed buildings and the rugged Andalusian landscape.
9. Malaga
Málaga is a city that blends history, culture, and a laid-back coastal vibe. As the birthplace of Picasso, it has a thriving art scene, with the Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou Málaga among its highlights.
The city’s historic heart is home to the Alcazaba, a stunning Moorish fortress with incredible views, while the Roman Theatre and Gibralfaro Castle add layers of history.
Just steps away, the lively Port of Málaga and sandy beaches make it easy to switch between sightseeing and relaxation.
10. Frigiliana
Frigiliana is a picture-perfect white village in the hills above the Costa del Sol. Its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant blue doors create a postcard-worthy setting, with bursts of color from ceramic mosaics telling the town’s history.
The old Moorish quarter, with its winding alleyways and hidden corners, feels like stepping back in time. From the hilltop, there are breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.
With its charm, history, and stunning scenery, Frigiliana is a place worth slowing down for.
11. Arcos de la Frontera
Arcos de la Frontera is another stunning hilltop town with whitewashed houses stacked along steep cliffs.
Its dramatic setting offers panoramic views of the rolling countryside, best seen from the Balcony of Arcos, where sheer drops add to the spectacle.
The town’s narrow, winding streets lead to hidden patios, historic churches, and a mix of Moorish and Andalusian influences. At the top, the Plaza del Cabildo and the Church of Santa María sit at the heart of this charming pueblo blanco, making it an unforgettable stop in Andalusia.
12. Cadiz
Cádiz is one of Spain’s oldest cities, surrounded by the Atlantic and filled with history, culture, and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Its old town is a maze of narrow streets, leading to lively plazas, centuries-old churches, and colorful facades that reflect its seafaring past. The Cádiz Cathedral, with its golden dome, dominates the skyline, while the Tavira Tower offers some of the best views of the city.
With sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and a vibrant local atmosphere, Cádiz is the perfect blend of history and relaxation.
13. Colomares Castle
Colomares Castle is unlike any other monument in Spain, a tribute to Christopher Columbus designed in the shape of a ship setting sail.
Built in the 20th century, it blends Gothic, Romanesque, and Mudejar styles, creating an architectural masterpiece filled with intricate carvings and historical references. Tucked away in Benalmádena, it also holds the world’s smallest church and offers stunning sea views.
With its unique design and fascinating details, this hidden gem is a must for history and architecture lovers, but also Instagrammers.
14. Playa de Bolonia
Playa de Bolonia is a wild, unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, where soft golden sand, rolling dunes, and turquoise waters create a stunning landscape. It’s part of a protected natural area, meaning no big resorts—just open space, fresh sea air, and incredible views.
Right next to the beach, the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia add a historical touch, with well-preserved remains of an ancient Roman city.
Whether you’re here to relax, explore the dunes, or take in the history, Bolonia feels like a hidden escape.
15. La Garganta Verde
La Garganta Verde is a spectacular limestone gorge in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, with towering cliffs that rise over 400 feet. It’s one of the best places in Andalusia to see griffon vultures, as a large colony nests in the rock walls above.
A hiking trail winds through rugged terrain, leading down into the gorge and ending at the Cueva de la Ermita, a massive cave covered in green moss.
With dramatic scenery and incredible wildlife, it’s an unforgettable spot for nature lovers and adventurers.
Read more: Hike La Garganta Verde
16. Marbella
Marbella is best known for its luxury resorts and nightlife, but its charm goes far beyond that.
The Old Town is a maze of whitewashed streets, bougainvillea-covered balconies, and hidden plazas, with Plaza de los Naranjos at its heart.
Along the coast, the Golden Mile leads to Puerto Banús, where yachts and designer boutiques line the marina.
But Marbella isn’t just about glitz; its beaches, scenic boardwalk, and mountain backdrop make it a great mix of relaxation, culture, and Mediterranean flair.
17. Doñana National Park
Doñana National Park is one of Europe’s most important wetlands, a vast expanse of marshes, dunes, and forests that serve as a refuge for wildlife.
It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, home to flamingos, herons, and one of the largest colonies of Spanish imperial eagles. The park is also one of the last strongholds of the Iberian lynx, one of the world’s rarest cats.
Seasonal lagoons transform the landscape throughout the year, making every visit different. With its mix of ecosystems and rich biodiversity, Doñana is a must for nature lovers.
18. Zahara de la Sierra
Zahara de la Sierra is a stunning white village perched on a hilltop in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Its dramatic setting overlooks a turquoise reservoir, with winding streets leading up to the 13th-century castle, where the views stretch for miles.
The village itself is a mix of whitewashed houses, flower-filled balconies, and peaceful plazas. Surrounding it, hiking trails take you through rugged mountains and lush forests.
Zahara combines history, nature, and incredible scenery, making it a perfect stop in Andalusia’s Pueblos Blancos route.
19. Tabernas Desert
Tabernas Desert is Europe’s only true desert, a vast, rugged landscape that looks like it belongs in the American West.
Its arid hills, dramatic canyons, and rocky plateaus have made it a famous filming location for classic Spaghetti Westerns, including those by Sergio Leone.
Today, you can explore the desert trails, visit old movie sets, and even walk through abandoned Wild West towns used in Hollywood productions.
20. La Herradura
La Herradura is a hidden gem on the Costa Tropical, known for its horseshoe-shaped bay, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Sheltered by cliffs, the beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with underwater sites like La Punta de la Mona attracting marine life.
The town itself has a laid-back vibe, with waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and tapas. Nearby, the Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs Natural Area offers scenic coastal hikes with breathtaking views.
21. Medina Azahara
Medina Azahara is an ancient palace-city built in the 10th century by Abd al-Rahman III, once the shining capital of Islamic Spain.
Just outside Córdoba, its ruins reveal remnants of grand halls, intricate arches, and expansive courtyards that once symbolized the power of the Caliphate of Córdoba. Walking through the site, you’ll see beautifully carved columns and city walls that hint at its former splendor.
Though partially in ruins, Medina Azahara remains one of Andalusia’s most fascinating historical sites, offering a glimpse into Spain’s Moorish past.
22. Iznajar
Iznájar is a stunning hilltop village overlooking one of Andalusia’s largest reservoirs, often called the Lake of Andalusia.
Its whitewashed houses, steep streets, and blue flower pots give it a classic Pueblo Blanco charm, while the 9th-century castle at the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The reservoir itself is perfect for kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing by the shore.
With a peaceful atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and a mix of history and nature, Iznájar is a great off-the-beaten-path destination in Andalusia.
Tips & Info to Travel Andalusia
☀️ Best time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November) are ideal. The weather is warm but not too hot, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying festivals like Seville’s Feria de Abril. Summer can be extremely hot, especially inland, while winters are mild but quieter.
📆 How long should you stay: Plan to spend at least 7 to 10 days if you want to see the highlights without rushing. This gives you time to visit key cities like Seville, Granada, Córdoba, and a few smaller towns or natural spots. With two weeks, you can dive deeper into Andalusia’s white villages, coastline, and national parks.
🚗 How to get around: Renting a car is the best way to explore, especially if you want to visit small villages, natural parks, or coastal areas. Major cities like Seville, Córdoba, and Málaga are well connected by train, but a car gives you flexibility and access to the lesser-known spots. Driving is straightforward, and roads are generally in good condition.
🧳 What to pack: Pack light, breathable clothes for the hot days and a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring or fall. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cobbled streets and hilltop towns. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat as the Andalusian sun can be strong even outside summer!
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