7 Beautiful Places to Visit in Southern Spain — From Cute Beach Towns to Charming Whitewashed Villages
Get ready to fall in love with Southern Spain’s stunning sights! With eight remarkable provinces to explore, it’s hard to know what to prioritize BUT we took a road trip all over Southern Spain and I have just the spots worth visiting! Let me be your guide to the best places to visit in Southern Spain.
The region of Andalusia is much more relaxed and offers nice weather almost all year round. This region is the perfect mix of beaches, rich historic cities, and the most charming small towns. Whether you fancy a jaunt to the coast’s lively locales or the tranquil charm of an Andalusian whitewashed village, you’ll find everything you need here. Join me as we tour the top seven must-visit hidden gems of Southern Spain, where delightful streetscapes, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences whisk you away.
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Beautiful Places to Visit in Southern Spain (VIDEO)
Get ready to embark on a visual journey through Southern Spain, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. In this video, you’ll get just a glimpse on the best places to visit in Southern Spain.
@herjoliejourney Loved exploring all these magical towns! #spain #visitspain #spaintravel #traveldiaries #beautifuldestinations ♬ original sound - Michal
Check Out My Southern Spain Map (+ Bonus Spots)
Hitting up all the top spots in Southern Spain is no easy feat, but don’t worry! This list has got you covered with the best the Andalusian region has to offer. Below you can find a map of the best places to visit in Southern Spain as shared in this post AND I have included some bonus spots!
1. Frigiliana
Looking for the ultimate Mamma Mia experience? Look no further than Frigiliana, a picturesque hillside town in southern Spain. Wander the town’s charming streets without a plan and get lost in its photogenic beauty. With only 3,000 residents, there’s no need to rush – take your time and enjoy the journey.
Frigiliana may be small, but don’t let that fool you – there’s plenty to keep you entertained. One day here is a must, but even if you’re short on time, you can conquer the town in just three hours and still experience everything worth seeing. Don’t miss out on the best that Frigiliana has to offer! There are so many cute places to visit in Southern Spain, but Frigiliana was definitely a highlight.
Ready to explore the charming streets of Frigiliana, Spain? Let me drop some travel tips that will help make your trip even better!
- The Best Way to Get Around Frigiliana: The town is highly walkable, but be prepared for cobblestone streets, inclines, and stairs. Your efforts will be rewarded, however, with breathtaking views! Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Do you need to know Spanish? While it’s always helpful to know the local language, fear not! Many locals speak English.
- Budget-Friendly Frigiliana: Accommodations are very reasonable, with average hotel costs at $70. And for food, we spent less than $100 for the day.
2. Nerja
Forget the tourist traps, Nerja boasts 10 miles of stunning coastal beaches – and that’s just the start. This hidden gem is home to secluded seaside coves and mesmerizing waterfalls, making it a true natural wonder. We only regret not extending our stay. The amount of time you need in Nerja depends on your interests and travel pace.
We were only able to explore for a couple hours, before making the drive to Marbella, but generally, a stay of 2 to 4 days is ideal to fully enjoy the highlights of this charming town.
Start by exploring the stunning Nerja Caves, then head to the Balcón de Europa for panoramic sea views. Relax on the pristine beaches, such as Playa de Maro for snorkeling and Burriana Beach for water sports and delicious paella at Ayo’s. Wander the charming streets of the Old Town, savoring local tapas and seafood. Don’t miss the scenic hike through Rio Chillar or a visit to the historic El Acueducto del Águila. For a taste of local culture, attend festivals like the Feria de Nerja or the San Juan Festival. Nerja is one of the top places to visit in Southern Spain!
3. Marbella
This luxury seaside town is famous among the rich and the famous for a reason and a stop you do not want to miss. This easily became a FAVORITE stop on our road trip itinerary through Southern Spain. Marbella is filled with trendy beach clubs, 5 Michelin Star restaurants and the most charming old town filled with citrus trees. It’s southern Spain’s answer to St. Tropez, and an all-around winner for anyone looking to experience the good life!
Get ready to fall in love with this coastal town, it’s a truly unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re looking for luxurious escapes or thrilling adventures, this Mediterranean wonderland has got you covered. Follow along as I uncover the hotspots of Marbella, promising a journey filled with relaxation, excitement, and endless fun!
Marbella, Spain, is a glamorous coastal city known for its upscale offerings and charming old town. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the Casco Antiguo, where you can explore historic sites like Plaza de los Naranjos and the beautiful church of Iglesia de la Encarnación. Relax on the golden beaches or enjoy water sports along the famous Costa del Sol. Indulge in luxury shopping and dining at the upscale Puerto Banús marina, or take a leisurely walk along the scenic Paseo Marítimo.
4. Ronda
Tucked away in the heart of Andalusia lies Ronda – a picturesque town boasting dramatic landscapes, endless history, and a vibrant culture. Balanced atop the El Tajo gorge, Ronda offers views that might just take your breath away. As you make your way through its charming streets, soak in the tapestry of influences, from ancient Roman remains to traditional Spanish bullrings.
Although not originally on our itinerary, the staff at the hotel INSISTED we make a stop in Ronda. Ronda is located just barely over an hour from Marbella. People from all over the world come to Ronda to see this iconic bridge.
Wondering why this is considered one of the best places to visit in Southern Spain? Ronda offers a rich tapestry of historical and scenic attractions. Begin with a visit to the iconic Puente Nuevo, the bridge spanning the dramatic El Tajo gorge. Explore the historic bullring, Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest in Spain. Wander through the charming old town, visiting landmarks like the Mondragón Palace and the ancient city walls. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens of Casa del Rey Moro and the impressive Arab Baths. For a taste of local culture, indulge in Andalusian cuisine at a traditional tapas bar and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting town.
5. Setenil de las Bodegas
Looking for a quirky little getaway destination? Look no further than Setenil de las Bodegas! This charming town is filled with winding, cave-lined streets and ancient cliffside homes that are as enchanting as they are unique. Don’t miss out on exploring the surreal cave houses or indulging in the local culinary delights – trust us, it’s a must-visit!
Whether you’re strolling through the narrow streets or checking out historic landmarks, Setenil de las Bodegas is the perfect day trip. This is truly one of the most unique places to visit in Southern Spain.
What is there to do here anyways? Wander through the narrow, winding streets to marvel at this distinctive architecture, particularly along Calle Cuevas del Sol and Calle Cuevas de la Sombra. Visit the historic Church of La Encarnación and the Torreón del Homenaje, a medieval tower offering stunning views of the village and surrounding countryside.
6. Córdoba
Córdoba, a hidden gem in the heart of Andalusia. This city has it all – history, culture, and architectural splendor. With its stunning Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral that embodies its diverse heritage, Córdoba is where you can lose yourself in labyrinthine streets and discover hidden courtyards adorned with vibrant flowers. From the historic Jewish Quarter to ancient Roman ruins, you’ll have a blast experiencing the lively atmosphere of local markets and tapas bars.
Don’t sleep on Córdoba! If you’re not already planning a visit, you need to add this spot as one of the places to visit in Southern Spain.
Córdoba, Spain, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a wealth of things to do. Start with a visit to the awe-inspiring Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral renowned for its stunning architecture and rich heritage. Wander through the charming Jewish Quarter, exploring its narrow streets, flower-adorned patios, and historic synagogues. Visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress with beautiful gardens and impressive views. Stroll across the Roman Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Guadalquivir River.
7. Seville
When I laid my eyes on photos of Seville, I let out an exaggerated gasp! Can’t blame me, though, you just can’t prepare yourself for the beauty of this place, it’s almost unfair.
This city is a real catch – historic center that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, vibrant flamenco scene, and some seriously tasty tapas and local specialties. And, don’t even get me started on the Seville Cathedral and Alcázar Palace – they are fit for royalty. If you skip Seville on your trip to Southern Spain, well, I can’t say what might happen! But trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this incredible city. It tops the charts as one of the best places to visit in Southern Spain!
Seville, Spain, is a vibrant city rich in culture and history. Visit the stunning Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views. Explore the exquisite Real Alcázar palace and its lush gardens. Wander the charming Barrio Santa Cruz with its narrow streets and tapas bars. Don’t miss the iconic Plaza de España in Maria Luisa Park. Experience passionate flamenco at a local tablao and savor Andalusian cuisine at traditional restaurants.
I hope this helps you put together the best itinerary filled with places to visit in Southern Spain! And if you’re making your way to Barcelona, check out my 3 day guide here.
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