The Perfect 8-Day Andalusian Road Trip
Updated: May 12
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Back in the day, aboard a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC), my father's ship docked at a port named Algeciras in the province of Cadiz, nestled in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia near the Strait of Gibraltar. Dad navigated from the Persian Gulf, via the Cape of Good Hope, as the Suez Canal remained closed during the Gulf War. These were snippets of my father's maritime adventures when I shared our plans for a road trip in Andalusia with him. His eyes gleamed with nostalgia as he urged me to explore the Rock of Gibraltar and savor the delights of Spanish cuisine. This ignited a profound joy within me, and I felt an adrenaline rush to discover a region that once embraced my seafaring father in his prime. What could bring me more delight!
So here I am, thrilled to share details about The Perfect 8-Day Andalusian Road Trip that my husband and I meticulously planned and executed. It served as the perfect remedy to escape the winter blues in the Netherlands and immerse ourselves in a land bathed in sunshine, vibrant vibes, and delectable cuisine.
Before we begin,
Good to know: Andalusia is divided into eight provinces: Almería, Cádiz, Córdoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaén, Málaga, and Seville.
Agenda: The Perfect 8-Day Andalusian Road Trip How to Plan Your Route Day 1: City of Architectural Beauty Seville Day 2: City of Flamenco Culture Seville Day 3: City of Stunning Caves Aracena Day 4: City of Dramatic Cliffs Ronda Day 5: City of Sunny Beaches Marbella Day 6: City of Art Scene Malaga Day 7: Scenic walkway in El Chorro gorge Caminito del Rey Day 8: City of Historic Elegance Cordoba Final Thoughts |
How to Plan Your Route
To kick off your Andalusian holiday, Seville is an ideal launching pad. Positioned as the capital city of the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain, Seville served as our home base for exploring nearby cities such as Ronda and Aracena in Huelva. Later, we made our way to Marbella, using it as a strategic hub to discover Malaga, enjoy the beautiful beaches, and concluded our adventure in Cordoba. We headed north from Cordoba to wrap up our journey in Madrid, where we departed by plane.
Seville (Seville, Aracena, Ronda) → Marbella (Marbella, Malaga) → Cordoba → Madrid
Day 1: City of Architectural Beauty Seville
Getting to Seville is a breeze! Direct flights from major EU airports like Transavia, Vueling Airways, and Ryanair make it super accessible. If you prefer road trips, driving from Faro in Portugal is a quick two-hour ride. Renting a car from cities like Barcelona (9 hours) or Madrid (5 hours) within Spain is also an option. Another route is flying into Malaga and driving two hours to Seville.
Car Rental and Parking: Parking in Seville can be tricky. We rented our Jeep at the airport itself from the company Record Go via Booking.com. It was a very convenient and easy process. For Car rentals, you may click on this link for ease of booking your car. Without prearrangements, city center garages can be pricey. We paid a hefty €30 for a day! For a convenient spot near the action, Parking Plaza Nueva SL comes highly recommended.
As for accommodations, consider Ilunion Alcora Seville. It’s an all inclusive 4-star hotel just 15 minutes from the bustling city centre. They offer fantastic amenities like a delicious breakfast, dining options, a salon, and excellent concierge service. And most importantly free parking! Perfect for a cozy stay! Reserve your accommodations by clicking here.
Things to see in Seville
Our trip to Seville was a total win! With 3 Days in Seville, we had ample of time to explore all the highlights of the city and soak in the culture and vibe of this vibrant city. We were smart enough to book our tours in advance, saving us from the chaos of Christmas and New Year's crowds. Seriously, it would've been a disaster without those early reservations. As you stroll through Seville, you will notice that Seville has many beautiful buildings, like the stunning Alcazar, a palace with a mix of Moorish and Christian styles, the impressive Cathedral of Saint Mary with its Giralda tower, and the modern Metropol Parasol that gives great views of the city. These places highlight Seville's rich history and mix of cultures.
First up, we explored the main city architectural highlights Giralda tower and Seville Cathedral, The Royal Alcazar of Seville and El Centro and Santa Cruz neighbourhood.
Climb up Giralda Tower
Our ascent began at the Giralda tower, an Islamic minaret constructed in 1184. Climbing its 34 ramps provided panoramic city views, a treat for both adults and kids. The largest belfry in Spain, Giralda houses 24 bells, and its top offers breathtaking vistas.
Guided Tour of Cathedral of Seville
You will be truly mesmerised by the sheer size of this cathedral. The largest Gothic cathedral globally, Seville Cathedral, holds the third most important art collection in Spain. You can easily spend over an hour inside. The tomb of Christopher Columbus left me in awe, along with the fascinating stories behind the numerous chapels housed within the cathedral, each with its own enchanting explanations and narratives. Book a Cathedral of Seville and Giralda guided tour with priority access for an enriched experience.
El Centro and Santa Cruz
Exploring El Centro revealed a historic and artistic quarter. Wandering through Santa Cruz's narrow streets, we admired 12th-century Gothic and Moorish architecture. Highlights included the Royal Dockyards, Torre del Oro watchtower, and the Palacio de San Telmo. During our visit, Teatro de la Maestranza showcased a festive flamenco Christmas carol performance.
Royal Alcazar of Seville
The breathtaking Moorish palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases medieval Islamic architecture. Its a must visit and preferably at a time of the day when you're refreshed and energetic to explore its 34 rooms and 7-hectare gardens. It will immerse you in its grandeur. The Alcazar's Game of Thrones fame adds to its allure. Heads up: check your ticket details! We missed a private tour because of that, but the palace's mix of Christian and Moorish styles was still mind-blowing.
Pro tip: Book ahead to avoid FOMO! To ensure your visit, book tickets early through the Royal Alcazar of Seville and Sevilla Cathedral with Giralda tower guided tour links. Securing tickets in advance spared us from serpentine queues at the Cathedral and Royal Alcazar.
Souvenir Shopping
A short walk to Calle de Placentines led us to Artesanias Medina, a fixed-price haven for Seville souvenirs. A Seville magnet and Moorish-designed tile coasters were my takeaways for home from Seville. A day rich in history, culture, and gastronomy culminated with a cozy dinner on bustling Calle Sierpes, marking the end of another thrilling day in Seville.
Day 2: City of Flamenco Culture Seville
Given the abundance of attractions in this captivating city renowned for its Flamenco culture, you can expect a great mix of history, art, and lively performances to enchant your visit.
Start your day at Plaza de España
Plaza de España in Seville is an awesome place to visit! It's a colossal semicircular building, a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Moorish styles with a cool canal and bridges. You can even hop on a little boat and cruise around the water. The building has colourful tiles showing off different parts of Spain, and there are alcoves dedicated to each province. It's picture-perfect for Instagram and just walking around. You can learn a lot about Spain's culture and history there. I recommend checking out Parque de María Luisa, where you'll find the stunning Plaza de España. It's a great place to enjoy a picnic and have a wonderful time with your family.
Next up, a Flamenco dance performance
We dove into the city's vibrant culture with a Flamenco dance performance at Teatro Flamenco Sevilla. The show, a traveler favorite, had three daily sessions, each offering perfect views, even from the back rows due to the clever upward seating arrangement. Originating from Romani communities, Flamenco mesmerised us with its diverse dance styles, from the festive Sevillanas to the dramatic Soleá and more.
Don't miss out shopping at Calle Sierpes
After this emotionally charged performance, we explored Seville's lively shopping scene on Calle Sierpes. The bustling street, filled with well-known brands and charming boutiques, was a retail frenzy during post-Christmas sales. We picked up toys for the kids at Juguetrónica and marveled at the unique shop opening schedule with a siesta break in the afternoon. In the evening, the neighborhood came alive with festive lights, performances, and a joyful holiday atmosphere. We enjoyed the glittering lights, street entertainment, and a delicious dinner at Ta’Kool, savoring the best tacos. The night ended with a stroll back to our hotel, immersed in the festive spirit, ready for another exciting day ahead.
Check out my blog post '3 Days Winter Festive Travel Itinerary of Seville' for a comprehensive guide on Seville, including itinerary, activities, accommodations, dining, and more.
Day 3: City of Stunning Caves Aracena
Planning to leave the city behind for a peaceful getaway in Aracena? This morning, we embarked on a one-hour drive to Aracena, a beautiful white town found in the province of Huelva, with cave exploration as our main objective. Aracena is easily accessible from Seville via the N-433 highway. The distance by car from Seville to Aracena is roughly 85 kilometers (53 miles), and the travel time typically spans about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Aracena offers ample parking spaces, and we never encountered difficulty finding a spot. We chose a free parking space on Judeira, but you can also find parking options on Avenue Huelva.
Things to see in Aracena
Aracena feels like the hidden gem in the heart of Andalusia, Southern Spain. Tucked away in the north of the province, it's where you get to revel in the beauty of nature. What captivates me in these European small towns are their local markets, historic town centres, traditional squares, and, in the case of Aracena, the enchanting charm of white-washed houses. While our primary focus was to admire the wonders of Gruta de las Maravillas cave system, if your schedule allows, consider adding a trip to Aracena Castle, an ancient fortress nestled on a hill, and indulging in the famous local delicacy, Jamón ibérico (Iberian ham), at the Aracena Ham Museum. Secure your spot on the Iberian Ham Full-Day Tour to Aracena, where you can savor exquisite Jamón ibérico, learn about the intricate artisanal ham-making process, and explore the enchanting Gruta de las Maravillas.
Gruta de las Maravillas (the Cave of Wonders)
During my trip to Vietnam, I had the privilege of exploring the Paradise Cave, situated in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. My son who was all of 2 years old was with us. His eyes gleamed when he saw the stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations and I hoped he would remember the experience. It was by far the best cave I had visited. Six years later, we had the chance once again to witness something truly magnificent.
Our visit to Gruta de las Maravillas in Aracena fulfilled a long-held dream of mine. Now, with my son at 8 years old and my 5-year-old daughter in tow, I expressed gratitude for the opportunity for them to witness nature's extraordinary beauty through their eyes. The Gruta de las Maravillas, opened to the public in 1913, stands in the heart of Aracena. Spanning 2 kilometers, the cave features intricate stalactites and stalagmites, forming a mesmerising visual spectacle. The highlight of the cave is the stunning blue waters contrasting with the dark brown cave stone. The suspended stalactites and rising stalagmites create a breathtaking scene dating back around 50,000 years! Kudos to Aracena's municipality and the Andalusian regional government for their commendable conservation efforts.
Pro Tip: The cave offers a one-hour guided tour in Spanish, but for tourists, an audio tour in various languages is available. Photography is restricted inside to preserve the natural habitat. Open everyday from 10 am. to 1:30 pm. and from 3 to 6 pm.
Aracena's Historic Town Centre
After the cave tour, we enjoyed lunch at Restaurant Casas along A La Gruta Main Street, surrounded by charming shops and cafes. Don't miss the line of bitter orange trees leading to the cave entrance. If time permits, explore Aracena's historic town center with its narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. The Castle of Aracena, offering panoramic views, and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Mayor Dolor, showcasing Gothic architecture, are must-see attractions in this delightful town. Secure your spot here for a full day Aracena and Rio Tinto Mines Tour.
Day 4: City of Dramatic Cliffs Ronda
The next morning, we opted for a leisurely breakfast before heading to Ronda, prioritising this historic town over more time in Seville. The very name, 'Dramatic Cliffs,' hinted at the extraordinary landscapes that awaited, exciting us with awe and wonder.
To drive from Seville to Ronda, follow the A-374 and A-376 roads. The distance is approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles), and the trip typically lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, subject to traffic conditions. Located about an hour and a half south of Seville towards Malaga, Ronda captivated us with its breathtaking beauty. You can also plan to visit Ronda in the second leg of your trip while you stay at Marbella or Malaga. Opt for this guided tour from Malaga of the historic Ronda.
Parking at Ronda: As it was just a day trip to Ronda, we decided to park at the heart of the tourist center, at APK2 Plaza del Socorro car park, a 5 minutes walk to Puente Nuevo bridge. Another parking at a 5 minutes walk to the main shopping street Calle "La Bola" and a 15 minutes walk to Puenta Nuevo bridge is the APK2 Martínez Astein car park. At both car parks, it's Euro 20 for 24 hours parking .
Things to See in Ronda
Our mission: check out the Amazing Cliffs. The gorge is so deep it could give you a bit of a head spin, and the houses right on the cliff's edge make it seem like stepping out the door could lead to a tumble down. It's both scary and fascinating. The town is cocooned in awe-inspiring natural beauty. Apart from that visit to one of Spain's oldest bullrings and the historic Arab Baths and Mondragon Palace is something you could do to immerse yourself in Ronda's rich heritage.
Helpful Tip: We secured a lunch reservation at Las Marvellas, a renowned Andalusian restaurant in Ronda, recommending advance booking, especially during peak tourist season.
Fist stop, Puente Nuevo bridge
Ronda's charm lies in its elevated position above the deep El Tajo gorge, offering stunning views from the Puente Nuevo bridge. There are several viewing points atop this bridge and underneath it. What's iconic about the Puente Nuevo bridge is that it connects the town along with various bridges, which is divided by a profound canyon created by the Guadalevín River. We spent two hours soaking in the panoramic vistas, though caution is advised with kids near railings or walls. Secure your audio guide walking tour of Puente Nuevo and Old Town here.
Plaza de Toros de Ronda
Another highlight was our visit to Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the world's first purpose-built bullfighting arena. Intrigued by its historical significance, I also silently thanked my stars that I didn't have to experience the drama of bullfighting. The bullring had a picturesque setting with a complete sandstone architecture to its main ring and seating area. I kept imagining the intensity of past bullfights. Imagine this cultural tradition has been in existence since 1785.
"La Bola"
Beyond the bullring, Ronda's old town boasts narrow streets and charming white-washed buildings. Exploring local shops and cafes, we savored Tocino del Cielo and a latte macchiato at La Ibense de Ronda in the main shopping street Calle Espinel, commonly known as "La Bola", adding delightful moments to our trip.
Day 5: City of Sunny Beaches Marbella
Off to Marbella. Now it is time for the second leg of our road trip. We were headed for the coastal sunny town of Marbella, however we had secured an accommodation in Marbella to beat the ridiculously high tariffs of the festive season in Malaga. The road trip from Seville to Marbella unfolds as a picturesque journey through southern Spain, with the drive spanning approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. It is Andalusian landscape at its best! You will notice acres and acres of olive groves and rocky mountains.
Parking in Marbella: If you're visiting the city center, then there are quite a few public parking areas or parking garages at the heart of the city close to the old town or close to the beach. One such car park is Avenida del Mar which is located right in the centre of Marbella and hotel Fuerte Marbella’s public car park is very close to the beach and old town.
Accommodation: Marbella excels in providing extended retreats with all-inclusive aparthotels, offering fully furnished apartments, amenities like pools and saunas, entertainment, inclusive meals, beach access, and workout facilities. Various resorts and hotels cater to different budget preferences. In the €150-€200 range, Hotel Dona Catalina stands out as an excellent choice. For a stay right by Nikki Beach, Ona Alanda Club Marbella (4 star) and Marriott's Marbella Beach Resort (5 star) are great options, priced around €220 per night. Hotel Apartmentos Princesa Playa, situated beachfront and in the city center, is available at approximately €350 per night. Reserve your accommodations by clicking here.
Hit up a Chiringuito (Beach Shack) at Marbella
While in Marbella, a Chiringuito experience is a must! Our resort, Ona Alanda Club Marbella, was near Nikki Beach. After breakfast, we headed to Los Tony's on Nikki Beach, a Chiringuito with a sunny terrace and stunning Mediterranean Sea views. We enjoyed watching kids build sandcastles, indulging in pimientos and Sangria Tinto. For water lovers, take a dive and unwind. Our day in Marbella was dedicated to sunbathing. Marbella's sunny beaches like Playa del Alicate, Bounty Beach, Playa Nagüeles, Playa de Puerto Banus, Cabopino Beach, and Playa de la Fontanilla are perfect for relaxation and coastal beauty.
Stroll around the Old Town
Many recommendations pointed us towards exploring the charming Old Town, renowned for its narrow cobblestone streets and historic landmarks like Orange Square. Many tourists visit Marbella to just indulge in the luxury shopping and the perfect place for this are the designer boutiques and exclusive brands on the Golden Mile. Book your tour here to explore the old town of Marbella with a local guide.
Day 6: City of Art Scene Malaga
Malaga it is! I understand Malaga isn't a place to run through in a day, however we didn't have the liberty to spend a week here leisurely enjoying the sandy beaches to ourselves because our idea was to do a road trip through Andalusia. However having spent a day in Malaga, we are sure to come back again, the next time fully armed to spend a week here, leisurely soaking ourselves in the sun and digging our toes in the silky sand of its wonderful beaches. Malaga, just a 45-minute drive from Marbella, greeted us with a variety of resorts, primarily catering to the multitude of tourists drawn to its excellent weather year-round. As we entered the city, a captivating stretch of palm trees brought to mind the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai.
Parking in Malaga: We utilised Parking Plaza de la Marina, a convenient 5-minute stroll from the main shopping street, Calle Marques de Larios, in Malaga—highly recommended for day trips. Another viable option is Parking Arriola, a mere 4-minute walk to Calle Larios and a 1-minute walk to the Atarazanas Central Market. For those lodging at hotels like Ibis Budget Hotel, Novotel Suites, and Hotel MH Malaga, the Parking Indigo - Mena is the optimal choice, situated next to these accommodations and in close proximity to Malaga city centre (10-15 minute walk).
Things to see in Malaga
I found Malaga to be an intriguing destination with a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of Dubai. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso offers a bustling old town filled with beautiful historic buildings that left a lasting impression on me. While the shopping and food scene in Malaga reminded me of my experiences in Dubai, I personally have a preference for a more authentic and less commercialized atmosphere. However, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the artistic and historic buildings in Malaga, which brought me great joy.
La Manquita (Malaga Cathedral)
So, my adventure in Malaga was nothing short of amazing! First stop – Malaga Cathedral, or as the locals call it, La Manquita. The architecture blew my mind, and climbing to the top gave me these incredible views of the historic old town that I won't forget. Right next to it, I checked out The Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga – a cultural hub with this stunning orange and yellow facade that added a cool vibe to the scene. Get your skip-the-line Malaga Cathedral tickets here.
Museo Picasso Málaga
Being Pablo Picasso's hometown, I couldn't miss the Museo Picasso Málaga in the historic old town. It's open even during the festive season, and exploring the life and art of the legendary painter was something else. Kiu was quite intrigued with the chronological order of Picasso's collection. If it intrigues you too this much, be sure to allocate 3 hours for this visit. To know more about his life, there is another museum in the same city.
Traditional Wine Tasting
After absorbing loads of info, we dived into the local vibe at Antigua Casa de Guardia, a rustic wine cellar renowned for its splendid Malaga wines. This charming spot, buzzing with activity but free from airs, beautifully represents Malaga's wine culture. They pour wines straight from the barrels, with prices casually noted at the bar. Since it was bustling inside, we opted to enjoy our drinks outdoors with the lively crowd. The cellar boasts a superb selection of fortified wines, including the famed Moscatel wines with their floral and fruity notes, and Spanish sherry. I highly recommend savoring the aromatic Spanish Vermouth or a sweet Vino de Málaga alongside a plate of scallops or snails.
Mercado Central de Atarazanas (Atarazanas Market)
My love for food and flea markets is a constant quest during my travels. In Malaga, away from the tourist hubs, the Atarazanas market is a hidden gem where locals gather for fresh produce. Operating from Monday to Saturday, this market surprises with some of the city's best tapas, freshly cooked by various eateries, providing a genuine taste of local flavors. The Atarazanas market operates from Monday to Saturday, opening at 8 am and closing around 2-3 pm, varying for each stall. It will surprise you but the city's best tapas is sold here. Many of the eateries here freshly cook their tapas and you can indulge in various flavours. The Tapas, History and Local customs tour is so worth it. Book it here!
Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre
And I wrapped up my Malaga exploration with a visit to the historic Arab Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre – layers of history and stunning architecture. The Roman Theatre of Malaga is situated in the heart of the historical center, at the base of the Alcazabilla de Malaga fort. Commissioned during the reign of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD, admission is free. Although you can also view it from a platform, exploring it is highly recommended for the fascinating history it holds. The Moorish Alcazaba of Malaga is a prominent monument in the Costa del Sol's capital. Originally constructed as a fortification during the Islamic period, it later transformed into a palace-fortress and the seat of the city government. Linked to Gibralfaro Castle by the extensive La Coracha walls, a visit requires about one and a half hours, with entry closing 45 minutes before the scheduled closing time. Book your guided tour to the Alcazaba and Teatro Romano here.
Beach Vibe If you want to skip all of the above and instead just settle for the local beach vibe, Playa de la Malagueta in Malaga is your spot. La Malagueta Beach stretches about 1,200 meters along the Mediterranean coastline. It is easily accessible by car from the city centre (10 minutes) or a leisurely walk (30 minutes). You can snag a palapa and two beach chairs for €14. And if you fancy it, there's no shortage of vendors offering massages, mojitos, and more. Looking for a Catamaran sailing adventure? Secure your spot by booking here!
Helpful Advice: It can get quite busy in the afternoons so I recommend heading to the beach in the morning where you can find some peace and calm, and then you can head to the city centre.
Check out my blog post 'The Perfect 2-Day Malaga Itinerary - The Heartbeat of Andalusia' for a comprehensive guide on Malaga, including itinerary, activities, accommodations, dining, and more.
Day 7: Scenic walkway in El Chorro gorge Caminito del Rey
I had to skip this gorgeous place due to the rule specifying access for children aged 8 and above only. Additionally, all individuals under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and provide ID. However, if you have an opportunity, please ensure to include Caminito del Rey in your itinerary. You can thank me later!
Imagine walking along a nearly 8-kilometer trail near Malaga, once considered one of the world's most dangerous paths. It's much safer now, but the thrill remains – walking on walkways hanging over 100 meters above a steep cliff. Known as 'the King’s little walk,' it was built in 1921 to connect waterfalls for a hydroelectric dam. The route takes you through cliffs, canyons, and a valley with towering 700-meter-high walls carved by the Guadalhorce River.
For an easier experience, guided tours are available for 18€. The trail is 7.7 kilometers long, taking about 3-4 hours to walk from Ardales to Álora. A guide will be with you from the start, providing information about the surroundings, making your visit memorable. Plan your visit to Caminito del Rey with an official guide by securing your booking here.
Day 8: City of Historic Elegance Cordoba
How to get to Cordoba? Our following destination on the Andalusian road trip was the captivating city of Cordoba, just a 2-hour drive from Malaga via the A-45 and A-92 highways.
For parking, take a short walk from the old town to save money. Walk across the Roman bridge, starting from Puerta del Puente towards Torre de la Calahorra until you reach Ámerigo, where you'll find free parking (a brisk 13-minute walk from the cathedral). Avoid parking on the left side, reserved for residents (Aparcamiento or residentes), and opt for the right side designated for tourists. The specific parking spot is Ámerigo, 810 Carmen Olmedo Checa, Sur, Cordoba, where we enjoyed complimentary parking.
In Cordoba, choose accommodation based on your preferences. For city center hotels with breakfast, consider Eurostars Patios de Cordoba, NH Cordoba Califa, and Hotel Macià Alfaros. Seeking 4-star options? Hotel Madinat, Las Casas de la Juderia de Cordoba, H10 Palacio Colomera, and Eurostars Azahar offer varied amenities. For luxury, Hospes Palacio del Bailio and Balcon De Cordoba provide upscale experiences. If apartments suit you, check out Suites La Posada De Pilar and Apartamentos Casa del Aceite for comfort and convenience.
Things to see in Cordoba
Cordoba, a gem in Andalusia, captivates with its charming old town featuring cobblestone streets and picturesque houses. Navigating the narrow lanes requires some serious driving skills. The white-washed facades, adorned with yellow borders and Moorish-style arches, make Cordoba feel like a dream.
Mesquita Cathedral of Cordoba
Your first stop in Cordoba has to be the Mesquita Cathedral. Wander through the charming narrow lanes until you reach the heart of Cordoba, where the impressive Mesquita Cathedral stands tall. Formerly a mosque, it's also known as the Mezquita and the Great Mosque of Córdoba. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, it's a masterpiece showcasing the evolution of architectural styles. The prayer hall inside, with its forest of columns and red-and-white arches, is particularly captivating. For an immersive experience, consider the Night Guided Tour or an early morning visit to beat the crowds. Tickets range from €13 to €20, with free entry for kids. Book this excellent guided tour of the Mesquita by just clicking on this LINK.
Pro Tip: Located near the Mesquita Cathedral, Bar Santos offers a street food atmosphere with quick service. Try their Tortilla de patatas, salmorejo, and pinchos at affordable prices. A must-visit in Cordoba.
Don't miss the Virgen de los Faroles shrine on the outer walls, a small altar dedicated to the Virgin of the Lanterns. It's a charming spot near the Patio de los Naranjos, adding a spiritual touch to your visit.
Torre Campanario (Clock tower of Cordoba Cathedral)
Explore the Torre Campanario for stunning views of Cordoba. Entrance to the square and gardens is free, but there's a fee for the tower and cathedral. Tickets cost €5 per person, and it's advisable to buy them in advance. The climb offers breathtaking views, with rounds starting every half-hour from 09:30 to 18:30, depending on the season. Plan your visit strategically to make the most of this unique experience.
Roman Bridge of Cordoba (Puente Romano)
Standing since the 1st century AD, the Roman bridge is an iconic symbol of unity in Cordoba, spanning the Guadalquivir River. We walked through the Renaissance gate, Puerta del Puente, that marks the entrance to the bridge. Save this bit for during sunset to enjoy mesmerising views of the city from the bridge.
Sinagoga De Córdoba
The next morning before we bid adieu to Cordoba, we made a visit to one of Spain's well-preserved Jewish history sites. It was built in 1315 and now a National Monument, free to enter. This ancient synagogue has tall walls with intricate stucco decoration, horseshoe arches, and Hebrew inscriptions that showcase Mudéjar and Gothic styles.
Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs (Alcázar of Córdoba)
If you have more time, don't miss this gem in Córdoba! The Alcázar features the stunning Patio de los Leones, boasting a fountain encircled by marble lions. While the Alcazar itself offers views from upper levels, the gardens provide a tranquil oasis.
Pro Tip: Head to Churrería Victoria for a sweet breakfast, try freshly made churros with chocolate sauce. A local favorite.
Check out my blog post '24 Hours in Cordoba, Andalusia: Perfect Itinerary to explore the City's Charms from Day to Night' for a comprehensive guide on Cordoba, including itinerary, activities, accommodations, dining, and more.
Final Thoughts
In these 8 days, I could have crammed in more, but then I'd miss savoring the nuances of these stunning cities. Looking back, I might have allotted more time to each city, but hey, my golden rule is to cap trips at 8 days, especially with little explorers in tow. So, for my next Andalusia escapade, I've got my eyes on the gorgeous beaches of Cadiz, the kitesurfing paradise Tarifa, the iconic Alhambra in Granada, the mysterious Nerja Caves, the captivating Dolmen of Menga in Antequera, and definitely my dad's recommendation, the famed Rock of Gibraltar 😃.
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