1. White villages of Cadiz
Cádiz is one of the provinces with the most essence in all of Andalucia (though, in truth, all of them have their own unique essence). It is surrounded by both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, offering a unique maritime experience.
To immerse yourself in the culture, history, customs, and gastronomy of Cadiz, it’s best to visit several of its white villages. Some of the most notable include Setenil de las Bodegas, Arcos de la Frontera, Olvera, and Grazalema. Each of these villages stands as a testament to how the province has evolved over the years.
2. Cadiz (city)
Beyond the towns of Cádiz, the provincial capital is another must-see destination in Andalucia. The city has much to offer, especially historically. It is one of those small capitals brimming with essence that you always want to visit. Due to its location on the Atlantic Ocean and its proximity to Portugal and the Strait of Gibraltar, Cádiz has played a key role in various historical events.
Today, Cádiz city is a unique tourist attraction with captivating art and charming people. You can visit iconic landmarks such as the Cádiz Cathedral, the Palacio de la Aduana, the Central Market, the Tower of Tavira, and the Roman Theater. And of course, don’t miss its beautiful beaches and, above all, the opportunity to savor the fried fish found in the taverns of the city center or the Pópulo neighborhood.
🎟️ If you want to get to know the city better, this free tour is a great option.
3. Tarifa, one of the best places to visit in Andalucia
This is a place in Andalucia with countless activities. Whether you’re into adventure sports like kitesurfing or windsurfing, seeking a more peaceful connection with nature (hiking, sunset yoga on the beach), passionate about the culture and history of the region, or looking to add a bit of nightlife to your experience… Tarifa has it all.
And by “everything,” we truly mean everything. In addition to must-see sights like the Puerta de Jerez and the Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, Tarifa boasts unique beaches such as Bolonia and Valdevaqueros. There are also restaurants in Tarifa that, as we say in the south, “will take your breath away” with their exquisite dishes prepared from the freshest daily ingredients, especially fish.
If you’re planning to visit this destination, make sure to research where to stay in Tarifa. Depending on your preferences and activities, certain areas will be more suited to your tastes than others.
4. Cabo de Gata
Andalucia is full of unique natural gems, and one of them is Cabo de Gata in Almeria. It’s a stunning place shaped by nature, making the most of the Mediterranean Sea’s ecosystem. There are so many amazing spots to visit in Cabo de Gata that will leave you in awe.
Exploring the park, discovering hidden gems like Mojácar, and, of course, enjoying its incredible beaches is an experience you’ll want to have again and again. Plus, there are charming hotels to stay in and fantastic restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local food.
5. Malaga (city)
Malaga is like a fine wine… it only gets better with time. The capital of the province is more popular than ever on the international scene, recently becoming one of the best cities in the world to work remotely and live. There are plenty of reasons for this, and you can discover them for yourself by exploring all that Malaga has to offer.
The Alcazaba, the Cathedral of Malaga, and Paseo del Parque are just a few of the must-see spots if you’re visiting Malaga for the day. However, it’s better to stay a few days in Malaga to truly enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace.
🎟️ If you want to get to know the city better, this free tour is a perfect option.
6. Caminito del Rey, one of the best things to do in Andalucia
You don’t have to leave the province of Malaga to experience one of the most exciting activities in southern Spain: the Caminito del Rey. After being closed for many years (it wasn’t even open to locals when I was a child and teenager), it was reopened a few years ago and has since become a must-do adventure.
The Caminito del Rey is a walkway that stretches across the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge. It’s named after King Alfonso XIII, who crossed it in 1921 during its inauguration. If you plan to take on this adventure, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as reservations are a must.
7. La Axarquia
Another interesting area to visit in Andalucia is, without a doubt, the Axarquia. It is a part of the eastern region of Malaga that stretches from the coast to the inland, including, in addition to unique natural terrain, several very interesting villages that convey the most authentic Malaga essence.
To make a route through the most beautiful villages of the Axarquia is a perfect plan for any trip to the south of Andalucia. Among them you will discover Comares, Frigiliana, Caleta de Vélez, Nerja, or Torrox.
8. Ronda, the most beautiful town in Andalucia
Ronda is one of the most spectacular white villages of Malaga. This town must be seen and visited at least once. Once in the city, you will discover unique places such as the Alameda Park, the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, the Mirador de Ronda, the New Bridge and the Old Bridge, the Palace of Mondragon and the Fountain of the 8 Spouts.
9. Sierra Nevada
Andalucia has it all, and this is not an exaggeration… In literally 40 minutes by car, you can go from skiing in the morning to enjoying the sea and the beach in the afternoon. This is all thanks to the wonderful ski resort of Sierra Nevada, in Granada. An impressive natural space where you can not only ski but also enjoy nature in its purest form at any time of the year.
10. La Alpujarra
Sierra Nevada is part of the stunning natural landscape of La Alpujarra, an incredible mountain region that has protected Granada for centuries. The area is home to villages that have managed to adapt to the steep, rugged terrain, such as Lanjarón, Pampaneira, Capileira, Bobión, and Soportújar; all located within La Alpujarra.
Visiting this area of Granada is an experience you won’t forget, especially when you get the chance to try the local cuisine. The Iberian Serrano ham from Trevélez is a must-try. yYou’ll probably want to take some home with you!
11. Granada (city)
They say Granada is one of the great treasures of Spain, and I truly believe it. Granada is a beautiful city, full of magic and charm, a place you’ll want to return to again and again. There is always something new to see, and, in addition, Granada has a unique way of healing and lifting your spirits like few other places can. Choosing what to see in the city can be a challenge, but this list of places to visit in Granada will guide you.
The Alhambra, the Cathedral of Granada, the Albaicín neighborhood, and the Paseo de los Tristes are must-see spots if you only have a day in Granada. However, staying longer allows you to explore the city in greater depth. For an unforgettable stay, a charming or luxury hotels in Granada will be an excellent choice.
🎟️ If you want to get to know the city better, booking this free tour is a great idea. It’s one of the best free tours in Granada.
12. Seville (city)
Seville is the capital of Andalucia, offering a mixture of culture and history. The city offers countless iconic places to visit, such as the Giralda, the Plaza de España, the Cathedral of Seville, and Maria Luisa Park. If you want to see everything and not miss a thing, here you will find the must-visit places in the city of Seville.
Additionally, it is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. There are spectacular hotels in Seville that cater to all types of travelers.
🎟️ If you want to get to know the city better, this free tour is an amazing option. It’s one of the best free tours in Seville.
13. Costa Tropical
The Costa Tropical (the coast of Granada) is one of the most beautiful in Andalucia due to its unique character. It is a small coastline, as Granada only has 79 kilometers of it, but with an abundance of nature both at sea and on land… Truly unique! Be sure not to miss villages like Salobreña, which is beautiful.
The Costa Tropical is a landscape you will fall in love with, and you can enjoy it at any time of the year thanks to its consistent temperature. In addition, plantations of avocados, mangoes, and other tropical fruits have flourished, elevating the local gastronomy to exceptional heights.
14. Cordoba (city)
Cordoba is another city that anyone visiting Andalucia must explore. Here, you can discover the connection between Al-Andalus (Andalucia) and its Islamic heritage. Cordoba is not only home to historic buildings from that era but also preserves customs and traditions that remain integral to its vibrant culture.
The must-see landmarks include the Mosque of Cordoba, the Jewish Quarter, the Royal Stables, the Alcazar of the Christian Kings, the Roman Bridge of Cordoba, and its picturesque streets adorned with colorful pots and flowers.
🎟️ If you want to get to know the city better, this free tour is a great option.
15. Sierra de Aracena
In the province of Huelva, one must not overlook one of its most iconic natural sites, the Sierra de Aracena. While visiting the city of Huelva and enjoying the province’s stunning beaches, it’s also worth exploring its picturesque mountain landscapes.
The Sierra de Aracena and the town of Aracena form a natural park surrounded by the Guadalquivir, Guadiana, and Odiel—three of Andalucia’s most important rivers. Here, you can enjoy hiking through the mountains, and in Aracena, the capital, you can discover unique treasures such as the Gruta de las Maravillas, the Castle of Aracena, and the Convent of Santa Catalina Mártir.
16. Ubeda and Baeza
It’s time to discover more beautiful villages in Andalucia. We’re now heading to Jaén to explore two of the region’s most beautiful cities, Úbeda and Baeza. Both towns are World Heritage Sites, boasting a remarkable monumental and artistic heritage worth witnessing.
Baeza is best known for its network of stone streets. Be sure to visit landmarks such as the Cathedral of Baeza, Plaza de Santa Maria, the Palace of Jabalquinto, and the Church of Santa Cruz. In Úbeda, highlights include the Museum of Archaeology, the House Museum Synagogue of Solomon, the Hospital of Santiago, and the entire Jewish quarter.
17. Sierra de Cazorla
Let’s move on to another of the Andalucian mountain ranges, the Sierra de Cazorla, located in the Penibetic System (the main range in the region). It belongs to the province of Jaén and connects with Sierra Morena at one of its ends. The park is fully protected, especially for the bird species that inhabit it. Since 1983, it has been a biosphere reserve and, since 1987, a special protection area for birds.
Within the Sierra de Cazorla, 23 municipalities coexist, benefiting from the immense wealth provided by the rivers and waterfalls of nature. In this area, you can’t miss places like the Tranco Reservoir, the source of the Guadalquivir River, and iconic villages such as Cazorla, La Iruela, Hinojares, and Quesada, among others.
18. Doñana National Park
We will finish our visit to the most beautiful places in Andalucia in the Doñana National Park, one of the most internationally known. It has a little bit of Huelva, Seville, and Cadiz.
The most wonderful thing about Doñana is the natural diversity it offers, including dune parks, marshes, beaches and reserves. The latter are the perfect natural home for a myriad of species of all kinds. Doñana is also known for El Rocío. Every year, the pilgrimage passes through these lands with great care and respect.
Map of things to do in Andalucia, Spain
In the following map you can see all the places mentioned in this article.
That concludes our list of the best places to visit in Andalucia. Undoubtedly, it is one of the autonomous communities with the most art and essence in all of Spain. The south has something truly special: a light and a scent of the sea that makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Spain.
