Andalusia offers an ideal combination of history, nature and a relaxed atmosphere in southern Spain. During this trip, you will pass through famous cities full of monuments, but you will also get to less touristy places where there is peace and beautiful scenery. Ancient streets, viewpoints, mountains and coast await you. Thanks to car transfers, you will see more than during a regular stay in one place. This holiday is ideal for those who want to explore but also relax. You will be accommodated in a pleasant seaside resort where there are beautiful beaches and plenty of interesting things to see.
Important information
Tickets to the Alhambra fortress in Granada and the Caminito del Rey trail need to be purchased in advance. Order them as soon as possible - you can find the links on the 3rd and 6th day.
Tolls are charged on motorways. If you want to save money, set your navigation correctly to guide you away from toll sections. You can easily get everywhere without toll motorways.
You will need a passport to enter Gibraltar.
Upon arrival at the airport, pick up your rental car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure) and head towards your accommodation. After you check in and rest a bit from your journey, take a short first walk around the town. Stroll along the promenade and soak up the local atmosphere. End the day at a relaxed pace and look forward to all the experiences to come.
If you don't feel like walking from the accommodation, you can park in the center.
You will have a drive along the coast to the Cueva de Nerja cave. After lunch, you will head back to Benalmádena to the Buddhist stupa (yes, you read that right). Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wonderful views. This is followed by a visit to the interesting monument Castillo de Colomares, dedicated to the discovery of America. You will spend the day combining beautiful places, views and the pleasant atmosphere of southern Spain.
The Nerja Cave is about 5 kilometers long. It was accidentally discovered by five friends in 1959 and opened to tourists the following year. We liked the impressive and open interior spaces. Surprisingly, it is not cold inside. There is a parking lot and restaurant in the square in front of the entrance. You can buy tickets in advance. Try checking their website - they also have events where admission is free. You pay for parking on the spot.
In the town of Nerja, you can also see the three-story aqueduct from the 19th century and the so-called Balcony of Europe, a cliff with a wonderful view of the sea.
If you'd like to have lunch, I recommend this place. It looks completely ordinary from the outside, but I don't think I've ever had better pork with pepper sauce and fries.
This Buddhist stupa is the highest stupa in Europe (33 meters). It was officially completed in 2003 and symbolizes the achievement of Buddha's enlightenment. It is unusual in that you can enter it - inside there is a meditation room of 100 square meters and a room that serves to showcase the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. The surroundings of the stupa have a beautiful view of the sea and the town.
Admission is free and you can park right next to it.
Just a short distance from the previous spot is the smallest church in the world. You can find it in the Colomares Castle complex, and it's a monument dedicated to the navigator Christopher Columbus. Although it doesn't have a very long history (it was completed in 1997), you'll be thrilled. You'll definitely love the combination of towers, turrets, and various architectural styles.
Tickets can be purchased on-site; it's closed on Mondays. Parking is right at the entrance.
The day begins with a visit to the Alhambra - one of the most famous places in Andalusia, where palaces, gardens and beautiful views of the city await you. You will walk through the whole area and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historical place. After the visit, there will be a stop at one of the local churches, which impresses with its rich decoration and pleasant tranquility. So you will have sights and history on the program, but there will certainly be time to relax.
Tickets to the Alhambra need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
Granada is another important city where the influence of the Moors can be seen. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Granada, or Emirate. According to legend, the city reminded the Arab conquerors of a split pomegranate when viewed from the surrounding hills. That is why they called it Granada. The pomegranate is also a symbol of the city since the Catholic kings conquered Granada at the end of the 15th century as the last Muslim stronghold in Spain.
The Alhambra is a medieval complex of palaces and fortresses of the Moorish rulers of Granada. It is surrounded by a fortified wall lined with thirteen towers. The name Alhambra means red in Arabic - probably from the sun-baked bricks from which the outer walls are made. The palace was built mainly between 1284 and 1354, during the reign of Al Ahmar and his successors. Unfortunately, the names of the main participating artists are unknown or questionable. You must not miss these places in particular: Nasrid Palaces (richly decorated halls, delicate Arabic architecture), Generalife (gardens) and Alcazaba (fortress with the best views).
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
We came across this basilica in a guide because we weren't ready to go home yet. We were impressed by its calm atmosphere and especially its incredibly rich decoration. Be sure to come and take a look, even if just for a moment.
You can buy tickets in advance or on the spot.
You will head to the mountain town of Ronda, known for its location above a deep canyon and its iconic bridge. You can look forward to a walk through the historic center and views of the surrounding landscape. Then you will move to the unique town of Setenil de las Bodegas, where the houses are partially built directly into the rocks. You will walk through the narrow streets and soak up its unconventional atmosphere. And if that's not enough, you can stop for a walk in Marbella. On this day, you will enjoy impressive views and unique architecture.
The town of Ronda is built on two rock massifs separated by a gorge, which is spanned by the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) - probably the most famous of the local landmarks. And the view of the bridge is impressive. It appears on almost all the postcards of the town. Ronda is also considered one of the cradles of modern bullfighting, which is still held in Andalusia today. In the new part of the city, near the bridge, the bullring in the Plaza de Toros, one of the most famous and oldest in Spain (built in 1785), is worth a visit.
Take a winding mountain road with breathtaking views to the village of Setenil de las Bodegas. There, white cave houses huddle under huge boulders. It is a place worth visiting. Perhaps the most fascinating is Cantareria Baja street.
If you didn't feel like going home yet, stop for a while in Marbella. Walk along Avenida del Mar and take a look at the Alameda city park. You can admire the fountain or the beautifully painted benches here. From there it is only a few steps to the old town. Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square) is the center of Marbella. It is a typical Andalusian square full of orange trees and has a pleasant atmosphere.
You'll head to the British territory of Gibraltar, which offers a completely different atmosphere than the rest of Andalusia. The dominant feature is the famous Rock of Gibraltar, which offers views of the surrounding area and the African coast. During your visit, you can stroll around the city, climb the rock, and see the local monkeys. Gibraltar is an interesting combination of British style and Mediterranean environment. This day will be a pleasant change.
After parking, walk to the British territory (don't forget your passport). You walk across the runway, which they close when a plane is landing or taking off. Then you go through a small tunnel (Landport Tunnel), and towards Burger King, there's a small square where you can sit and have a snack. Before heading up the hill, take a stroll along the promenade (Main st.). Then, take the streets up, pay for the tickets on the spot - we first visited the tunnels that were built during World War II (World War II Tunnels), and it was quite impressive. You definitely mustn't miss Apes Den - this is where you can see the monkeys.
There is certainly more to see, but we had had enough, and we took the bus back to the car - from the Boyd Street Terminus (Cable Car) stop, you can take number 5 or 10. You pay by card inside the bus.
May be useful: The cable car that goes up the hill is under long-term reconstruction. But the climb is not very challenging and even children can handle it. When we passed through passport control, a guy approached us saying that we were late and would not make it to see Gibraltar. The only option is to buy a van trip with stops. Complete nonsense, we managed to see everything we were interested in. The trip would cost a lot of money, and I would only recommend it to people who have health restrictions or prefer a guide.
Today will be dedicated to nature and two very different places. First, you will hike the famous Caminito del Rey trail, which runs high above the canyon and offers beautiful views. Then you will move to the El Torcal de Antequera area, where you will walk among unusual rock formations. The local landscape looks completely different from the rest of Andalusia and is worth stopping by.
If you don't mind heights, you will enjoy this trail. It is about one meter wide, about three kilometers long, and from a height of one hundred meters you will look into the El Chorro canyon.
Caminito del Rey runs above breathtaking cliffs along vertical rock walls. It was built between 1901 and 1905 and was formerly nicknamed the "most dangerous hiking trail in the world." However, it underwent a complete reconstruction between 2001 and 2015. The result is a touristically extremely attractive route, which includes protective nets, railings and other safety features.
After arriving at the parking lot, wait for the shuttle bus that will take you to the beginning of the trail. Go through a small tunnel and then go down the path to the gate where they check tickets (we arrived about an hour late and it didn't matter - but it was off season). Then go through the entire trail and get to the place with refreshments, where you wait for another shuttle bus. This will take you back to the parking lot.
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range. It is known for its unusual shapes and is considered one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. In October 1978, a natural park of approximately 17 square kilometers was created.
Parking and entry are free here. But if you go here in season, it is said to be quite crowded and you have to park in the lower parking lot and then take a shuttle bus directly to the entrance.
Why not head to a beautiful viewpoint before heading to the airport? Especially when you can take a cable car. Today you're going home, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy one last view of the sea and the town. Just remember to leave for the airport in time and return the rental car.
If you have time before heading to the airport, take the cable car to the Sierra de Mijas mountains, where you can admire views of the city, the coast, and rock formations.
There is also a regular falconry presentation organized by the Valle de las Águilas Foundation.
You can order cable car tickets in advance. Parking is free.
Remember to be at the airport well in advance.
Andalusia offers an ideal combination of history, nature and a relaxed atmosphere in southern Spain. During this trip, you will pass through famous cities full of monuments, but you will also get to less touristy places where there is peace and beautiful scenery. Ancient streets, viewpoints, mountains and coast await you. Thanks to car transfers, you will see more than during a regular stay in one place. This holiday is ideal for those who want to explore but also relax. You will be accommodated in a pleasant seaside resort where there are beautiful beaches and plenty of interesting things to see.
Important information
Tickets to the Alhambra fortress in Granada and the Caminito del Rey trail need to be purchased in advance. Order them as soon as possible - you can find the links on the 3rd and 6th day.
Tolls are charged on motorways. If you want to save money, set your navigation correctly to guide you away from toll sections. You can easily get everywhere without toll motorways.
You will need a passport to enter Gibraltar.
Upon arrival at the airport, pick up your rental car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure) and head towards your accommodation. After you check in and rest a bit from your journey, take a short first walk around the town. Stroll along the promenade and soak up the local atmosphere. End the day at a relaxed pace and look forward to all the experiences to come.
If you don't feel like walking from the accommodation, you can park in the center.
You will have a drive along the coast to the Cueva de Nerja cave. After lunch, you will head back to Benalmádena to the Buddhist stupa (yes, you read that right). Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wonderful views. This is followed by a visit to the interesting monument Castillo de Colomares, dedicated to the discovery of America. You will spend the day combining beautiful places, views and the pleasant atmosphere of southern Spain.
The Nerja Cave is about 5 kilometers long. It was accidentally discovered by five friends in 1959 and opened to tourists the following year. We liked the impressive and open interior spaces. Surprisingly, it is not cold inside. There is a parking lot and restaurant in the square in front of the entrance. You can buy tickets in advance. Try checking their website - they also have events where admission is free. You pay for parking on the spot.
In the town of Nerja, you can also see the three-story aqueduct from the 19th century and the so-called Balcony of Europe, a cliff with a wonderful view of the sea.
If you'd like to have lunch, I recommend this place. It looks completely ordinary from the outside, but I don't think I've ever had better pork with pepper sauce and fries.
This Buddhist stupa is the highest stupa in Europe (33 meters). It was officially completed in 2003 and symbolizes the achievement of Buddha's enlightenment. It is unusual in that you can enter it - inside there is a meditation room of 100 square meters and a room that serves to showcase the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. The surroundings of the stupa have a beautiful view of the sea and the town.
Admission is free and you can park right next to it.
Just a short distance from the previous spot is the smallest church in the world. You can find it in the Colomares Castle complex, and it's a monument dedicated to the navigator Christopher Columbus. Although it doesn't have a very long history (it was completed in 1997), you'll be thrilled. You'll definitely love the combination of towers, turrets, and various architectural styles.
Tickets can be purchased on-site; it's closed on Mondays. Parking is right at the entrance.
The day begins with a visit to the Alhambra - one of the most famous places in Andalusia, where palaces, gardens and beautiful views of the city await you. You will walk through the whole area and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historical place. After the visit, there will be a stop at one of the local churches, which impresses with its rich decoration and pleasant tranquility. So you will have sights and history on the program, but there will certainly be time to relax.
Tickets to the Alhambra need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
Granada is another important city where the influence of the Moors can be seen. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Granada, or Emirate. According to legend, the city reminded the Arab conquerors of a split pomegranate when viewed from the surrounding hills. That is why they called it Granada. The pomegranate is also a symbol of the city since the Catholic kings conquered Granada at the end of the 15th century as the last Muslim stronghold in Spain.
The Alhambra is a medieval complex of palaces and fortresses of the Moorish rulers of Granada. It is surrounded by a fortified wall lined with thirteen towers. The name Alhambra means red in Arabic - probably from the sun-baked bricks from which the outer walls are made. The palace was built mainly between 1284 and 1354, during the reign of Al Ahmar and his successors. Unfortunately, the names of the main participating artists are unknown or questionable. You must not miss these places in particular: Nasrid Palaces (richly decorated halls, delicate Arabic architecture), Generalife (gardens) and Alcazaba (fortress with the best views).
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
We came across this basilica in a guide because we weren't ready to go home yet. We were impressed by its calm atmosphere and especially its incredibly rich decoration. Be sure to come and take a look, even if just for a moment.
You can buy tickets in advance or on the spot.
You will head to the mountain town of Ronda, known for its location above a deep canyon and its iconic bridge. You can look forward to a walk through the historic center and views of the surrounding landscape. Then you will move to the unique town of Setenil de las Bodegas, where the houses are partially built directly into the rocks. You will walk through the narrow streets and soak up its unconventional atmosphere. And if that's not enough, you can stop for a walk in Marbella. On this day, you will enjoy impressive views and unique architecture.
The town of Ronda is built on two rock massifs separated by a gorge, which is spanned by the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) - probably the most famous of the local landmarks. And the view of the bridge is impressive. It appears on almost all the postcards of the town. Ronda is also considered one of the cradles of modern bullfighting, which is still held in Andalusia today. In the new part of the city, near the bridge, the bullring in the Plaza de Toros, one of the most famous and oldest in Spain (built in 1785), is worth a visit.
Take a winding mountain road with breathtaking views to the village of Setenil de las Bodegas. There, white cave houses huddle under huge boulders. It is a place worth visiting. Perhaps the most fascinating is Cantareria Baja street.
If you didn't feel like going home yet, stop for a while in Marbella. Walk along Avenida del Mar and take a look at the Alameda city park. You can admire the fountain or the beautifully painted benches here. From there it is only a few steps to the old town. Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square) is the center of Marbella. It is a typical Andalusian square full of orange trees and has a pleasant atmosphere.
You'll head to the British territory of Gibraltar, which offers a completely different atmosphere than the rest of Andalusia. The dominant feature is the famous Rock of Gibraltar, which offers views of the surrounding area and the African coast. During your visit, you can stroll around the city, climb the rock, and see the local monkeys. Gibraltar is an interesting combination of British style and Mediterranean environment. This day will be a pleasant change.
After parking, walk to the British territory (don't forget your passport). You walk across the runway, which they close when a plane is landing or taking off. Then you go through a small tunnel (Landport Tunnel), and towards Burger King, there's a small square where you can sit and have a snack. Before heading up the hill, take a stroll along the promenade (Main st.). Then, take the streets up, pay for the tickets on the spot - we first visited the tunnels that were built during World War II (World War II Tunnels), and it was quite impressive. You definitely mustn't miss Apes Den - this is where you can see the monkeys.
There is certainly more to see, but we had had enough, and we took the bus back to the car - from the Boyd Street Terminus (Cable Car) stop, you can take number 5 or 10. You pay by card inside the bus.
May be useful: The cable car that goes up the hill is under long-term reconstruction. But the climb is not very challenging and even children can handle it. When we passed through passport control, a guy approached us saying that we were late and would not make it to see Gibraltar. The only option is to buy a van trip with stops. Complete nonsense, we managed to see everything we were interested in. The trip would cost a lot of money, and I would only recommend it to people who have health restrictions or prefer a guide.
Today will be dedicated to nature and two very different places. First, you will hike the famous Caminito del Rey trail, which runs high above the canyon and offers beautiful views. Then you will move to the El Torcal de Antequera area, where you will walk among unusual rock formations. The local landscape looks completely different from the rest of Andalusia and is worth stopping by.
If you don't mind heights, you will enjoy this trail. It is about one meter wide, about three kilometers long, and from a height of one hundred meters you will look into the El Chorro canyon.
Caminito del Rey runs above breathtaking cliffs along vertical rock walls. It was built between 1901 and 1905 and was formerly nicknamed the "most dangerous hiking trail in the world." However, it underwent a complete reconstruction between 2001 and 2015. The result is a touristically extremely attractive route, which includes protective nets, railings and other safety features.
After arriving at the parking lot, wait for the shuttle bus that will take you to the beginning of the trail. Go through a small tunnel and then go down the path to the gate where they check tickets (we arrived about an hour late and it didn't matter - but it was off season). Then go through the entire trail and get to the place with refreshments, where you wait for another shuttle bus. This will take you back to the parking lot.
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range. It is known for its unusual shapes and is considered one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. In October 1978, a natural park of approximately 17 square kilometers was created.
Parking and entry are free here. But if you go here in season, it is said to be quite crowded and you have to park in the lower parking lot and then take a shuttle bus directly to the entrance.
Why not head to a beautiful viewpoint before heading to the airport? Especially when you can take a cable car. Today you're going home, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy one last view of the sea and the town. Just remember to leave for the airport in time and return the rental car.
If you have time before heading to the airport, take the cable car to the Sierra de Mijas mountains, where you can admire views of the city, the coast, and rock formations.
There is also a regular falconry presentation organized by the Valle de las Águilas Foundation.
You can order cable car tickets in advance. Parking is free.
Remember to be at the airport well in advance.
itinerary by Barbora Proksova
Andalusia offers an ideal combination of history, nature and a relaxed atmosphere in southern Spain. During this trip, you will pass through famous cities full of monuments, but you will also get to less touristy places where there is peace and beautiful scenery. Ancient streets, viewpoints, mountains and coast await you. Thanks to car transfers, you will see more than during a regular stay in one place. This holiday is ideal for those who want to explore but also relax. You will be accommodated in a pleasant seaside resort where there are beautiful beaches and plenty of interesting things to see.
Important information
Tickets to the Alhambra fortress in Granada and the Caminito del Rey trail need to be purchased in advance. Order them as soon as possible - you can find the links on the 3rd and 6th day.
Tolls are charged on motorways. If you want to save money, set your navigation correctly to guide you away from toll sections. You can easily get everywhere without toll motorways.
You will need a passport to enter Gibraltar.
Upon arrival at the airport, pick up your rental car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure) and head towards your accommodation. After you check in and rest a bit from your journey, take a short first walk around the town. Stroll along the promenade and soak up the local atmosphere. End the day at a relaxed pace and look forward to all the experiences to come.
If you don't feel like walking from the accommodation, you can park in the center.
You will have a drive along the coast to the Cueva de Nerja cave. After lunch, you will head back to Benalmádena to the Buddhist stupa (yes, you read that right). Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wonderful views. This is followed by a visit to the interesting monument Castillo de Colomares, dedicated to the discovery of America. You will spend the day combining beautiful places, views and the pleasant atmosphere of southern Spain.
The Nerja Cave is about 5 kilometers long. It was accidentally discovered by five friends in 1959 and opened to tourists the following year. We liked the impressive and open interior spaces. Surprisingly, it is not cold inside. There is a parking lot and restaurant in the square in front of the entrance. You can buy tickets in advance. Try checking their website - they also have events where admission is free. You pay for parking on the spot.
In the town of Nerja, you can also see the three-story aqueduct from the 19th century and the so-called Balcony of Europe, a cliff with a wonderful view of the sea.
If you'd like to have lunch, I recommend this place. It looks completely ordinary from the outside, but I don't think I've ever had better pork with pepper sauce and fries.
This Buddhist stupa is the highest stupa in Europe (33 meters). It was officially completed in 2003 and symbolizes the achievement of Buddha's enlightenment. It is unusual in that you can enter it - inside there is a meditation room of 100 square meters and a room that serves to showcase the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. The surroundings of the stupa have a beautiful view of the sea and the town.
Admission is free and you can park right next to it.
Just a short distance from the previous spot is the smallest church in the world. You can find it in the Colomares Castle complex, and it's a monument dedicated to the navigator Christopher Columbus. Although it doesn't have a very long history (it was completed in 1997), you'll be thrilled. You'll definitely love the combination of towers, turrets, and various architectural styles.
Tickets can be purchased on-site; it's closed on Mondays. Parking is right at the entrance.
The day begins with a visit to the Alhambra - one of the most famous places in Andalusia, where palaces, gardens and beautiful views of the city await you. You will walk through the whole area and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historical place. After the visit, there will be a stop at one of the local churches, which impresses with its rich decoration and pleasant tranquility. So you will have sights and history on the program, but there will certainly be time to relax.
Tickets to the Alhambra need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
Granada is another important city where the influence of the Moors can be seen. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Granada, or Emirate. According to legend, the city reminded the Arab conquerors of a split pomegranate when viewed from the surrounding hills. That is why they called it Granada. The pomegranate is also a symbol of the city since the Catholic kings conquered Granada at the end of the 15th century as the last Muslim stronghold in Spain.
The Alhambra is a medieval complex of palaces and fortresses of the Moorish rulers of Granada. It is surrounded by a fortified wall lined with thirteen towers. The name Alhambra means red in Arabic - probably from the sun-baked bricks from which the outer walls are made. The palace was built mainly between 1284 and 1354, during the reign of Al Ahmar and his successors. Unfortunately, the names of the main participating artists are unknown or questionable. You must not miss these places in particular: Nasrid Palaces (richly decorated halls, delicate Arabic architecture), Generalife (gardens) and Alcazaba (fortress with the best views).
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
We came across this basilica in a guide because we weren't ready to go home yet. We were impressed by its calm atmosphere and especially its incredibly rich decoration. Be sure to come and take a look, even if just for a moment.
You can buy tickets in advance or on the spot.
You will head to the mountain town of Ronda, known for its location above a deep canyon and its iconic bridge. You can look forward to a walk through the historic center and views of the surrounding landscape. Then you will move to the unique town of Setenil de las Bodegas, where the houses are partially built directly into the rocks. You will walk through the narrow streets and soak up its unconventional atmosphere. And if that's not enough, you can stop for a walk in Marbella. On this day, you will enjoy impressive views and unique architecture.
The town of Ronda is built on two rock massifs separated by a gorge, which is spanned by the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) - probably the most famous of the local landmarks. And the view of the bridge is impressive. It appears on almost all the postcards of the town. Ronda is also considered one of the cradles of modern bullfighting, which is still held in Andalusia today. In the new part of the city, near the bridge, the bullring in the Plaza de Toros, one of the most famous and oldest in Spain (built in 1785), is worth a visit.
Take a winding mountain road with breathtaking views to the village of Setenil de las Bodegas. There, white cave houses huddle under huge boulders. It is a place worth visiting. Perhaps the most fascinating is Cantareria Baja street.
If you didn't feel like going home yet, stop for a while in Marbella. Walk along Avenida del Mar and take a look at the Alameda city park. You can admire the fountain or the beautifully painted benches here. From there it is only a few steps to the old town. Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square) is the center of Marbella. It is a typical Andalusian square full of orange trees and has a pleasant atmosphere.
You'll head to the British territory of Gibraltar, which offers a completely different atmosphere than the rest of Andalusia. The dominant feature is the famous Rock of Gibraltar, which offers views of the surrounding area and the African coast. During your visit, you can stroll around the city, climb the rock, and see the local monkeys. Gibraltar is an interesting combination of British style and Mediterranean environment. This day will be a pleasant change.
After parking, walk to the British territory (don't forget your passport). You walk across the runway, which they close when a plane is landing or taking off. Then you go through a small tunnel (Landport Tunnel), and towards Burger King, there's a small square where you can sit and have a snack. Before heading up the hill, take a stroll along the promenade (Main st.). Then, take the streets up, pay for the tickets on the spot - we first visited the tunnels that were built during World War II (World War II Tunnels), and it was quite impressive. You definitely mustn't miss Apes Den - this is where you can see the monkeys.
There is certainly more to see, but we had had enough, and we took the bus back to the car - from the Boyd Street Terminus (Cable Car) stop, you can take number 5 or 10. You pay by card inside the bus.
May be useful: The cable car that goes up the hill is under long-term reconstruction. But the climb is not very challenging and even children can handle it. When we passed through passport control, a guy approached us saying that we were late and would not make it to see Gibraltar. The only option is to buy a van trip with stops. Complete nonsense, we managed to see everything we were interested in. The trip would cost a lot of money, and I would only recommend it to people who have health restrictions or prefer a guide.
Today will be dedicated to nature and two very different places. First, you will hike the famous Caminito del Rey trail, which runs high above the canyon and offers beautiful views. Then you will move to the El Torcal de Antequera area, where you will walk among unusual rock formations. The local landscape looks completely different from the rest of Andalusia and is worth stopping by.
If you don't mind heights, you will enjoy this trail. It is about one meter wide, about three kilometers long, and from a height of one hundred meters you will look into the El Chorro canyon.
Caminito del Rey runs above breathtaking cliffs along vertical rock walls. It was built between 1901 and 1905 and was formerly nicknamed the "most dangerous hiking trail in the world." However, it underwent a complete reconstruction between 2001 and 2015. The result is a touristically extremely attractive route, which includes protective nets, railings and other safety features.
After arriving at the parking lot, wait for the shuttle bus that will take you to the beginning of the trail. Go through a small tunnel and then go down the path to the gate where they check tickets (we arrived about an hour late and it didn't matter - but it was off season). Then go through the entire trail and get to the place with refreshments, where you wait for another shuttle bus. This will take you back to the parking lot.
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range. It is known for its unusual shapes and is considered one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. In October 1978, a natural park of approximately 17 square kilometers was created.
Parking and entry are free here. But if you go here in season, it is said to be quite crowded and you have to park in the lower parking lot and then take a shuttle bus directly to the entrance.
Why not head to a beautiful viewpoint before heading to the airport? Especially when you can take a cable car. Today you're going home, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy one last view of the sea and the town. Just remember to leave for the airport in time and return the rental car.
If you have time before heading to the airport, take the cable car to the Sierra de Mijas mountains, where you can admire views of the city, the coast, and rock formations.
There is also a regular falconry presentation organized by the Valle de las Águilas Foundation.
You can order cable car tickets in advance. Parking is free.
Remember to be at the airport well in advance.
Andalusia offers an ideal combination of history, nature and a relaxed atmosphere in southern Spain. During this trip, you will pass through famous cities full of monuments, but you will also get to less touristy places where there is peace and beautiful scenery. Ancient streets, viewpoints, mountains and coast await you. Thanks to car transfers, you will see more than during a regular stay in one place. This holiday is ideal for those who want to explore but also relax. You will be accommodated in a pleasant seaside resort where there are beautiful beaches and plenty of interesting things to see.
Important information
Tickets to the Alhambra fortress in Granada and the Caminito del Rey trail need to be purchased in advance. Order them as soon as possible - you can find the links on the 3rd and 6th day.
Tolls are charged on motorways. If you want to save money, set your navigation correctly to guide you away from toll sections. You can easily get everywhere without toll motorways.
You will need a passport to enter Gibraltar.
Upon arrival at the airport, pick up your rental car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure) and head towards your accommodation. After you check in and rest a bit from your journey, take a short first walk around the town. Stroll along the promenade and soak up the local atmosphere. End the day at a relaxed pace and look forward to all the experiences to come.
If you don't feel like walking from the accommodation, you can park in the center.
You will have a drive along the coast to the Cueva de Nerja cave. After lunch, you will head back to Benalmádena to the Buddhist stupa (yes, you read that right). Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wonderful views. This is followed by a visit to the interesting monument Castillo de Colomares, dedicated to the discovery of America. You will spend the day combining beautiful places, views and the pleasant atmosphere of southern Spain.
The Nerja Cave is about 5 kilometers long. It was accidentally discovered by five friends in 1959 and opened to tourists the following year. We liked the impressive and open interior spaces. Surprisingly, it is not cold inside. There is a parking lot and restaurant in the square in front of the entrance. You can buy tickets in advance. Try checking their website - they also have events where admission is free. You pay for parking on the spot.
In the town of Nerja, you can also see the three-story aqueduct from the 19th century and the so-called Balcony of Europe, a cliff with a wonderful view of the sea.
If you'd like to have lunch, I recommend this place. It looks completely ordinary from the outside, but I don't think I've ever had better pork with pepper sauce and fries.
This Buddhist stupa is the highest stupa in Europe (33 meters). It was officially completed in 2003 and symbolizes the achievement of Buddha's enlightenment. It is unusual in that you can enter it - inside there is a meditation room of 100 square meters and a room that serves to showcase the culture of Tibetan Buddhism. The surroundings of the stupa have a beautiful view of the sea and the town.
Admission is free and you can park right next to it.
Just a short distance from the previous spot is the smallest church in the world. You can find it in the Colomares Castle complex, and it's a monument dedicated to the navigator Christopher Columbus. Although it doesn't have a very long history (it was completed in 1997), you'll be thrilled. You'll definitely love the combination of towers, turrets, and various architectural styles.
Tickets can be purchased on-site; it's closed on Mondays. Parking is right at the entrance.
The day begins with a visit to the Alhambra - one of the most famous places in Andalusia, where palaces, gardens and beautiful views of the city await you. You will walk through the whole area and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historical place. After the visit, there will be a stop at one of the local churches, which impresses with its rich decoration and pleasant tranquility. So you will have sights and history on the program, but there will certainly be time to relax.
Tickets to the Alhambra need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
Granada is another important city where the influence of the Moors can be seen. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Granada, or Emirate. According to legend, the city reminded the Arab conquerors of a split pomegranate when viewed from the surrounding hills. That is why they called it Granada. The pomegranate is also a symbol of the city since the Catholic kings conquered Granada at the end of the 15th century as the last Muslim stronghold in Spain.
The Alhambra is a medieval complex of palaces and fortresses of the Moorish rulers of Granada. It is surrounded by a fortified wall lined with thirteen towers. The name Alhambra means red in Arabic - probably from the sun-baked bricks from which the outer walls are made. The palace was built mainly between 1284 and 1354, during the reign of Al Ahmar and his successors. Unfortunately, the names of the main participating artists are unknown or questionable. You must not miss these places in particular: Nasrid Palaces (richly decorated halls, delicate Arabic architecture), Generalife (gardens) and Alcazaba (fortress with the best views).
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
We came across this basilica in a guide because we weren't ready to go home yet. We were impressed by its calm atmosphere and especially its incredibly rich decoration. Be sure to come and take a look, even if just for a moment.
You can buy tickets in advance or on the spot.
You will head to the mountain town of Ronda, known for its location above a deep canyon and its iconic bridge. You can look forward to a walk through the historic center and views of the surrounding landscape. Then you will move to the unique town of Setenil de las Bodegas, where the houses are partially built directly into the rocks. You will walk through the narrow streets and soak up its unconventional atmosphere. And if that's not enough, you can stop for a walk in Marbella. On this day, you will enjoy impressive views and unique architecture.
The town of Ronda is built on two rock massifs separated by a gorge, which is spanned by the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) - probably the most famous of the local landmarks. And the view of the bridge is impressive. It appears on almost all the postcards of the town. Ronda is also considered one of the cradles of modern bullfighting, which is still held in Andalusia today. In the new part of the city, near the bridge, the bullring in the Plaza de Toros, one of the most famous and oldest in Spain (built in 1785), is worth a visit.
Take a winding mountain road with breathtaking views to the village of Setenil de las Bodegas. There, white cave houses huddle under huge boulders. It is a place worth visiting. Perhaps the most fascinating is Cantareria Baja street.
If you didn't feel like going home yet, stop for a while in Marbella. Walk along Avenida del Mar and take a look at the Alameda city park. You can admire the fountain or the beautifully painted benches here. From there it is only a few steps to the old town. Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square) is the center of Marbella. It is a typical Andalusian square full of orange trees and has a pleasant atmosphere.
You'll head to the British territory of Gibraltar, which offers a completely different atmosphere than the rest of Andalusia. The dominant feature is the famous Rock of Gibraltar, which offers views of the surrounding area and the African coast. During your visit, you can stroll around the city, climb the rock, and see the local monkeys. Gibraltar is an interesting combination of British style and Mediterranean environment. This day will be a pleasant change.
After parking, walk to the British territory (don't forget your passport). You walk across the runway, which they close when a plane is landing or taking off. Then you go through a small tunnel (Landport Tunnel), and towards Burger King, there's a small square where you can sit and have a snack. Before heading up the hill, take a stroll along the promenade (Main st.). Then, take the streets up, pay for the tickets on the spot - we first visited the tunnels that were built during World War II (World War II Tunnels), and it was quite impressive. You definitely mustn't miss Apes Den - this is where you can see the monkeys.
There is certainly more to see, but we had had enough, and we took the bus back to the car - from the Boyd Street Terminus (Cable Car) stop, you can take number 5 or 10. You pay by card inside the bus.
May be useful: The cable car that goes up the hill is under long-term reconstruction. But the climb is not very challenging and even children can handle it. When we passed through passport control, a guy approached us saying that we were late and would not make it to see Gibraltar. The only option is to buy a van trip with stops. Complete nonsense, we managed to see everything we were interested in. The trip would cost a lot of money, and I would only recommend it to people who have health restrictions or prefer a guide.
Today will be dedicated to nature and two very different places. First, you will hike the famous Caminito del Rey trail, which runs high above the canyon and offers beautiful views. Then you will move to the El Torcal de Antequera area, where you will walk among unusual rock formations. The local landscape looks completely different from the rest of Andalusia and is worth stopping by.
If you don't mind heights, you will enjoy this trail. It is about one meter wide, about three kilometers long, and from a height of one hundred meters you will look into the El Chorro canyon.
Caminito del Rey runs above breathtaking cliffs along vertical rock walls. It was built between 1901 and 1905 and was formerly nicknamed the "most dangerous hiking trail in the world." However, it underwent a complete reconstruction between 2001 and 2015. The result is a touristically extremely attractive route, which includes protective nets, railings and other safety features.
After arriving at the parking lot, wait for the shuttle bus that will take you to the beginning of the trail. Go through a small tunnel and then go down the path to the gate where they check tickets (we arrived about an hour late and it didn't matter - but it was off season). Then go through the entire trail and get to the place with refreshments, where you wait for another shuttle bus. This will take you back to the parking lot.
Tickets need to be booked in advance, they are often sold out.
El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range. It is known for its unusual shapes and is considered one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. In October 1978, a natural park of approximately 17 square kilometers was created.
Parking and entry are free here. But if you go here in season, it is said to be quite crowded and you have to park in the lower parking lot and then take a shuttle bus directly to the entrance.
Why not head to a beautiful viewpoint before heading to the airport? Especially when you can take a cable car. Today you're going home, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy one last view of the sea and the town. Just remember to leave for the airport in time and return the rental car.
If you have time before heading to the airport, take the cable car to the Sierra de Mijas mountains, where you can admire views of the city, the coast, and rock formations.
There is also a regular falconry presentation organized by the Valle de las Águilas Foundation.
You can order cable car tickets in advance. Parking is free.
Remember to be at the airport well in advance.
