Founded by the Phoenicians as a trading colony, Cádiz remained an important port city under the Romans. It came to the fore again in 1717, when the monopoly on trade with the Americas was transferred to Cádiz. Its coastal defences and watchtowers are testaments to its maritime heritage and strategic location.
Best-known internationally for its sherry bodegas and dancing horses, Jerez de la Frontera is also one of the cradles of flamenco. Add to that its medieval fortress, the beautifully-presented archaeological museum, the central market with an amazing array of fish and seafood, and gourmet tapas served up in historic tabancos – there’s something for everyone.
Base yourself in the elegant city of Málaga, which has undergone a complete transformation in recent decades. As well as enjoying what the city itself has to offer, you can use its excellent transport links to go on day trips to other great destinations in Andalucía.
From 1238 to 1492, the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada held on as the last Muslim kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula. Starting and ending in Málaga, this 10-day circuit takes you to some of the key locations in the kingdom.
This itinerary takes in the key sights while also stepping away from the tourist magnets into Seville’s most colourful and bustling neighbourhoods.
Málaga has become popular for city breaks since its city centre blossomed with the addition of a new cruise port terminal and several art museums, capitalising on its status as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. It can get pretty busy at times, but you don’t need to go far to get away from the hordes.
This day trip is designed for people who’ve already visited the Alhambra and want to see more of the rest of Granada. It takes in the key sights in the historical centre and Lower Albaicín.
Capital of both the Roman province of Baetica and Al-Andalus, Córdoba’s rich cultural heritage is preserved in its architecture, customs and cuisine. It’s worth lingering for a few nights to do the city justice and to experience its more tranquil side once the day-trippers have left.
Your main focus has to be the Alhambra and Generalife, which can easily take 3 hours or more to explore. After that, you should have time to see a bit of Granada itself. We recommend you choose either the Renaissance district around the cathedral or the lower Albaicín.
Córdoba is very easily reached on the AVE high-speed train from Seville, Málaga or Antequera, so it makes a great day trip. You’ll have time to explore the beautiful UNESCO-listed Mosque-Cathedral and Jewish quarter. You might even be able to squeeze in the Alcázar or a couple of Córdoba’s famous flower-filled patios.
