South Spain Itinerary: Best 7 Days in Andalucia
Welcome to your guide for the ultimate South Spain itinerary.
After living in this region for over three years, I’ve explored the area extensively. This 7 day Andalucia itinerary gives you insider tips and knowledge based on my first-hand experiences of the beauty that South Spain has to offer.
From beautiful cities to iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes, I guarantee you’ll love this itinerary for southern Spain. I tell you exactly how to see all the best places to visit in South Spain with practicality in mind. Ready? Let’s go!
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Southern Spain itinerary
Although this south of Spain itinerary is fast-paced, it allows you to see the very best highlights Andalucia offers.
You could easily spend more than a week in Southern Spain, however, if you’re limited by time but still want to experience the beauty and culture of Andalucia, this is the perfect itinerary for you.
Top 5 Places To Visit In Southern Spain
- The Alhambra Complex, Granada
- Real Alcazar, Seville
- Seville Cathedral and Giralda
- The Mezquita – The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
- Puente Nuevo, Ronda
7 Day Andalucia Road Trip – Know Before You Go
So, you’ve decided to do a southern Spain itinerary for 7 days – great! This section covers some practical considerations you’ll want to think about before you go.
Let’s delve into the essential information about planning a trip to Andalucia
When to Visit Southern Spain
The best time to visit Spain is generally during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). This is when the climate is more comfortable.
Summers can be scorching hot, especially in inland cities like Seville and Cordoba, making sightseeing quite challenging. Additionally, the summer months coincide with peak tourist season, meaning larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
For the best experience, I recommend late autumn or early spring.
You could even plan your southern Spain 1 week itinerary for the winter – they are usually mild compared to northern Europe, though the nights can be chilly so pack accordingly.
How to Get to Andalucía
This one week in Andalucía itinerary starts and finishes in the Andalucian capital of Seville. However, there are several convenient airports you can consider.
✈️ The two primary airports within Andalucía are:
- Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP): Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, this airport is the biggest in southern Spain and is well-connected to most major cities in Europe. It’s approximately 2 hours by car or bus from Seville.
- Seville Airport (SVQ): This airport is smaller than Málaga’s but still offers a decent number of connections to other European cities. It’s located around 15 minutes outside the city centre.
For those who initially arrive at Madrid Airport (MAD), you have the option to catch the high-speed train, known as AVE, that will whisk you to Seville in just a couple of hours.
How to Get around Andalucía
The best way to travel around Andalucia is by car.
That said, there are plenty of affordable and reliable public transport options – this itinerary could be done using the regional bus and trains, however, factor in connection times between cities. Also, to get the best prices, I recommend booking train and bus tickets in advance.
🚗 Car
- Driving in southern Spain is relatively easy, with well-maintained highways and major roads connecting most cities.
- Parking in cities can be a challenge so opt for accommodation with parking.
🚄 Train
- Renfe is the national train company in Spain and operates trains between most major cities within Andalucía.
- The high-speed AVE train also connects Seville to Madrid in just under 2.5 hours – this is great if your flight arrives here.
🚌 Bus
- The regional bus system in Andalucía is extensive and can be a budget-friendly option for travelling between cities.
- Alsa and Socibus are two major companies that operate routes throughout the region.
👉 A great way to check and compare bus and train times is via the Omio App. You also get the ticket sent straight to your phone so there’s no need to print things out.
Renting a Car in Andalucia
Like I mentioned before, this Andalucia one week itinerary is best done by car.
There are plenty of rental car places in Seville, which is where I recommend you start and finish.
In Seville, the majority of the car rental places are either at the Airport or around Santa Justa – the main train station.
There’s a mix of local and international agencies – I’ve used both and overall had good experiences with them. The important thing is to make an early reservation to secure better rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
One Week South of Spain Road Trip Itinerary
Ready to discover the best Southern Spain itinerary?
7 Days in Andalucia Trip Itinerary
- Day 1 & 2: Seville
- Day 3: Córdoba
- Day 4 & 5: Granada and the Alhambra
- Day 6: Malaga
- Day 6 Alternative Option: El Caminito del Rey Hike
- Day 7: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos Before Returning to Seville
Southern Spain Road Trip Map
This south Spain road trip map shows the basic route (if you’re driving), as well as everything I mention in this Andalusia itinerary.
Click on it to open the interactive version.
South of Spain Itinerary Day 1 & 2: Seville
This itinerary for southern Spain starts and finishes in the Andalucian capital of Seville.
Seville is often hailed as one of the best cities in southern Spain, with its fascinating history, UNESCO monuments and vibrant street life.
With two days in Seville, you’ll get to see the highlights that the city offers.
Day 1: The Historic Heart
Start your morning at the Royal Alcazar (Real = Royal in Spanish).
This ornately decorated palace with beautiful gardens is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Some of the highlights here are the Courtyard of Maidens, the Hall of Ambassadors and the Baths of Maria de Padilla.
Next head over to Seville Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parts of this site date back to when Seville was under Moorish rule – the site was originally a mosque – after the Christians conquered Seville, it was then converted into a cathedral – the Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in the world and home to Christopher Colombus’s tomb.
Make sure to go up to La Giralda bell tower. This iconic Spanish landmark is the symbol of the city – this used to be the minaret for the old mosque. From the top, you’ll have amazing views over Seville.
In the afternoon, explore Barrio Santa Cruz. This is the old Jewish Quarter of Seville and is filled with picturesque streets, plazas and orange trees.
If you still have some time, then join a food tour to get acquainted with Andalucian cuisine, so you’ll know what to look out for during the rest of your trip.
In the evening, watch a local Flamenco show at one of Seville’s traditional tablaos or tapas bars.
📍 Save Time and Money📍
Book a combination ticket for entry to the Royal Alcazar, Seville Cathedral and Giralda
Day 2: The Splendor of Seville
Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Exhibition, showcases Seville’s Renaissance revival architecture. The building features a grand, semi-circular complex decorated with colourful tiles, bridges and a large central fountain – along with the Giralda, this is another landmark you’ll want to add to your Seville bucket list!
Next to Plaza de España is Maria Luisa Park. These beautiful gardens are filled with fountains, pavilions, gigantic trees and exotic flora – listen out for the squawky little parakeets flying overhead.
In the afternoon, head to Metropol Parasol – also known as Las Setas (The Mushrooms) due to its unique mushroom-like structure. This piece of modern architecture is the largest wooden structure in the world and features a walkway around the top.
End your day with a visit to some of the city’s fabulous rooftop bars with views of the cathedral and Giralda lit up at night – ideally with a glass of local wine in hand.
An alternative plan, if you’re into Roman ruins, is to take the short ride out 8km north of Seville to Italica. This is one of the easiest places to visit near Seville, and a regular bus goes from Plaza de Armas station and drops right outside Italica. The journey takes just over half an hour.
👉 Looking for a more detailed guide to Seville?
Best Things to See In Seville
- The Royal Alcázar of Seville
- Seville Cathedral
- La Giralda
- Barrio Santa Cruz
- Flamenco Show
- Plaza de España
- Maria Luisa Park
- Metropol Parasol
- Cathedral Rooftop Bars
Where to Stay in Seville (2 Nights)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5* Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville
✅ Iconic Historic Building
✅ Gym & Swimming Pool
✅ 3x Onsite Restaurants and Terraces
Petit Palace Vargas
✅ Modren Decor
✅ Excellent Breakfast
✅ Central Location
South of Spain Itinerary Day 3: Córdoba
Start your day early, pick up your rental car, and then leave Seville. You will be able to see the main highlights of Cordoba in one day.
The second stop for your one week in Southern Spain is the charming city of Córdoba. Córdoba is known for its stunning architecture and diverse history.
This is another city in southern Spain where the Moors left their mark. The main highlight in Cordoba is the magnificent Mezquita – a mosque turned cathedral that showcases both Islamic and Christian influences in its design.
Inside you’ll see a beautiful prayer hall with over 850 columns, arched with red and white brickwork, intricate mosaic patterns and a stunning mihrab (prayer niche).
After exploring the Mosque-Cathedral, continue your day in Cordoba and wander through the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, known as Judería. This charming neighbourhood is filled with charming white-washed buildings and hidden courtyards. It’s also home to the famous flower-lined street, Calleja de las Flores.
Finish the afternoon with a visit to the stunning Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval palace filled with beautiful gardens, fountains and courtyards. After, walk over the Roman Bridge for beautiful views of the city lit up at night.
👉 Insider Tip: If you’re lucky enough to visit Cordoba in May, you’ll get to experience the vibrant Los Patios festival. During this time, hundreds of patios and courtyards throughout the city are adorned with colourful flowers. They are mostly free to enter but will have a donation pot for local charities.
Best Things to See In Córdoba
- The Mezquita
- Jewish Quarter
- Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
- Calleja de las Flores
- Roman Bridge and Views of the City
👉 Want to learn more about visiting Cordoba?
Getting to Córdoba from Seville
Driving from Seville to Córdoba
- Distance: Approximately 140 kilometres (87 miles)
- Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Road Guidelines: Begin on the A-4 or E-5 motorway, both leading directly from Seville to Córdoba.
Using Public Transport from Seville to Córdoba
By Train
- Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Frequency: Regular high-speed AVE trains run by Renfe connect Seville and Córdoba, making it the fastest way to travel between the cities.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours
- Providers include companies like ALSA, offering multiple trips throughout the day but taking longer than the train.
Where to Stay in Córdoba (1 Night)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Balcón de Córdoba
✅ Located in the heart of Cordoba’s historic centre
✅ Rooftop terrace with views of the Mezquita
✅ Three secluded patios for guests to relax in
Eurostars Patios de Cordoba
✅ Centrally located
✅ Set in the 12th century architectural remains
✅ Views over the Mezquita
South of Spain Itinerary Day 4 & 5: Granada and the Alhambra
No Andalucia itinerary would be worthy without a visit to the famous Alhambra – one of the most magical-looking places in Spain! Honestly, it’s outstanding, words and photos don’t do it justice.
Start your day early and leave Cordoba.
👉 Insider Tip: To make the most out of your time in Granada – I suggest a full day dedicated to just seeing the Alhambra – because you’re travelling in the morning, I suggest booking your tickets for the Alhambra on your second day in Granada so you don’t feel as rushed.
Day 1: Neighborhood Exploration
Spend your first day in Granada exploring the charming streets of Granada’s historic Albaicín neighbourhood. Head towards Carrera del Darro and up into the district.
Don’t miss walking up to the Mirador San Nicolas for a stunning view of the Alhambra with the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the city below. The Albaicin has a myriad of streets, cross-crossing in all directions – I spent hours here exploring. If you’re pushed for time, then join a walking tour of Albaicin to find out more about the area.
Another great district to explore is Sacromonte – famed for its cave houses.
Then spend the afternoon in Granada’s historic centre.
The Cathedral of Granada dominates the city centre while the Royal Chapel is home to some of Spain’s most famous Catholic monarchs.
I also recommend visiting Alcaicería – the old Silk Market. This Arabic-style bazaar reminded me of exploring the souks in Marrakech and is where you’ll find some of the best souvenirs.
In the evening head to the lower Albaicin area. The eateries here ooze with Eastern influence, so you’ll find everything like Turkish tea, Moroccan tagines and the most delicious falafel.
Day 2: The Alhambra Complex
On your second day in Granada, dedicate all your time to visiting the Alhambra – it’s a huge site with A LOT to see.
Make sure to book tickets for the Alhambra in advance as they sell out.
The Alhambra is Spain’s second most visited attraction (the #1 spot goes to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona!) – and is 100% worthy of a place on everyone’s Spanish bucket list. It gets insanely busy so I suggest being at the gates just before it opens and visiting the popular attractions first – such as the Generalife.
Your ticket will let you enter each zone once. You’ll also get a timed slot for the Nasrid Palace.
The main highlights of the Alhambra Complex are:
- Nasrid Palaces: The palace is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with intricate carvings, colourful tiles and beautiful gardens. They are home to the stunning Court of the Lions – one of the most photographed locations in the Alhambra.
- Generalife: Beautiful gardens, courtyards and fountains with stunning views of the Albaicín neighbourhood.
- Alcazaba: The oldest part of the Alhambra, this fortress offers incredible panoramic views of Granada and beyond.
- Charles V Palace: A Renaissance-style palace built by the Spanish king Charles V in the 16th century. It now houses the Alhambra Museum.
- Partal Gardens: A tranquil and romantic area filled with pools, gardens and pavilions.
📍 As soon as you know your travel dates, I suggest booking tickets for the Alhambra 📍
The Alhambra is Spain’s second most visited monument – and tourists arrive by the coach load to visit it. So you can imagine it gets busy!
Best Things to See In Granada
- The Alhambra Complex
- Albayzín/ Albaicín Neighborhood
- Mirador San Nicolas
- Sacromonte Hill
- Carrera del Darro
- Cathedral and Royal Chapel
- Alcaicería Market
👉 Discover more about visiting Granada.
Getting to Granada from Córdoba
Driving from Córdoba to Granada
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometres (124 miles)
- Estimated Time: About 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Road Guidelines: Start on the A-45 motorway, then merge onto the A-92 heading east, which will take you directly to Granada.
Using Public Transport from Córdoba to Granada
By Train
- Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Frequency: Regular high-speed AVE trains operated by Renfe make the journey
By Bus
- Travel Time: Roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Providers like ALSA offer frequent services with varying schedules, affording a more economical but longer travel option compared to the train.
Where to Stay in Granada (2 Nights)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5* Haxaris Casa Boutique, Granada
✅ Centrally located
✅ Full living facilities
✅ Panoramic city views
TOC Hostel, Granada
✅ Options of private or dorm rooms
✅ Onsite bar and social areas
✅ Great location close to attractions
South of Spain Itinerary Day 6: Malaga
The next destination on your Andalusia travel itinerary brings you to Malaga, a city that blends cultural highlights and beach relaxation perfectly.
Start early to make the most of your day.
Today, you have options depending on how you’re feeling. You can choose to spend time soaking up the sun on some of the best beaches in Andalucia or dive into the city’s rich culture – after all, this is the birthplace of Picasso.
Malaga also boasts of being one of the best cities in southern Spain for excellent shopping opportunities and a vibrant nightlife scene.
If you’re up for an adventure, consider a day trip to the Caminito del Rey (I’ve included more details on that in the next section).
Best Things to See In Malaga
- The Alcazaba
- Malaga Cathedral/ La Manquita
- Picasso Museum
- Malaga Park
- Atarazanas Market
- Malagueta Beach
- Gibralfaro Castle
- Roman Theatre
Day 6 Option: El Caminito del Rey Hike
If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in southern Spain then El Caminito del Rey will be right up your streak.
El Caminito del Rey is located close to Malaga so it’s an easy alternative to day 6 of this Andalucia travel itinerary.
The trail that’s steeped in history and once dubbed the “world’s most dangerous path”. It saw a series of unfortunate incidents, with several fatalities reported between 1999 and 2000.
This led to its ominous reputation and subsequent closure for safety renovations.
Today, after extensive refurbishment, the path is open to the public and safe to walk, although it still presents a thrilling challenge, especially for those with a fear of heights.
The trail clings to the side of a gorge, offering breathtaking views that are as awe-inspiring as they are vertigo-inducing.
I’ve done this trail twice – once independently, and once with a guide. Both times were great!
Check the weather forecast before you go as they sometimes close it if it’s too windy.
👉 To avoid disappointment, I suggest that you check the weather forecast before you go. It can get windy in the gorge- and one of the times I visited, they closed a section of the path because it was too dangerous – other times, if it’s particularly blustery – they close the entire trail.
Getting to Malaga from Granada
Driving from Granada to Malaga
- Distance: Approximately 125 kilometres (77 miles)
- Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Road Guidelines: Begin on the A-44 motorway, then connect to the A-7 towards the south, following the signs to reach Malaga.
Using Public Transport from Granada to Malaga
By Train
- Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Frequency: Regular services provided by Renfe, including high-speed options, connect these two cities.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Providers like ALSA offer multiple daily services, providing a budget-friendly travel solution with the convenience of different departure times.
Where to Stay in Malaga (1 or 2 Nights)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina
✅ Historical listed 1930s building
✅ Free parking
✅ Adults only
TOC Hostel, Malaga
✅ Options of private or dorm rooms
✅ Buffet breakfast served daily
✅ Great location close to attractions
South of Spain Itinerary Day 7: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos Before Returning to Seville
On the final day of your 7 days in southern Spain itinerary, leave Malaga early and venture to Ronda, a hilltop town known for its historic bridges and spectacular views.
The main highlight here is the visually-wow structure called Puente Nuevo.
The Puente Nuevo, or New Bridge, is one of Spain’s most recognisable landmarks. It was completed in 1793 after a laborious 34-year construction period.
The bridge was a daring solution to connect the city over a 120-meter-deep canyon of El Tajo de Rona gorge.
The name ‘New Bridge’ refers to the fact that it was built to replace a previous bridge which once stood there – it collapsed, claiming the lives of 50 people.
Although you can view the bridge from street level, it’s worth taking a short walk down the gorge to see it from a different perspective – take note that it’s a steep climb back up.
Within the small town, there are also plenty of lookout points – the most famous is Mirador de Ronda. This lookout point offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for photos.
After exploring Ronda, head to the Pueblos Blancos, or White Villages. These charming villages, with their whitewashed houses and tranquil atmosphere, offer a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life.
Some of my favourite Pueblos Blancos near Ronda are:
- Zahara de la Sierra
- Grazalema
- Setenil de las Bodegas (although this one can get insanely busy!)
- Arcos de la Frontera (although this is a little more of a detour)
Best Things to See In Ronda
- Puente Nuevo
- The Old Town (La Ciudad) and Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings
- Arab Baths
- Mirador de Ronda and Mirador de Aldehuela
Getting to Ronda from Malaga
Driving from Malaga to Ronda
- Distance: Approximately 102 kilometres (63 miles)
- Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Road Guidelines: Start on the AP-46 and A-357 motorways, then transition to the A-367 and A-397, which lead directly into Ronda.
Using Public Transport from Malaga to Ronda
By Train
- Travel Time: Roughly 2 hours
- Frequency: There are direct Renfe train services available, although less frequent than to other major cities, offering a scenic route into the heart of Ronda.
By Bus
- Travel Time: About 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Bus companies such as Avanza provide several daily trips, making it an affordable and reliable option to reach Ronda with the benefit of experiencing the picturesque Andalusian countryside.
Extending Your Southern Spain Itinerary: Other Places to Visit in Andalucía
Like I said at the start, there are so many things to do in Southern Spain, this Andalucia itinerary in 7 days really just scratches the surface.
If you can squeeze in an extra day or so, here are some of my suggestions on what else to do in Spain:
- Gibraltar: This British territory in the south of Spain is famous for its monkeys and rock formations. This is also a great spot in Spain to see Africa from!
- Tarifa: A charming town known for its stunning beaches and strong winds, making it a popular spot for watersports such as kite surfing.
- Cádiz: Known as one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, Cádiz is full of history and beautiful architecture.
- Torcal de Antequera Natural Park: Famous for its unique limestone rock formations, this park offers plenty of highly recommended hiking trails and panoramic views.
- Nerja: A coastal town that boasts beautiful beaches, a charming old quarter, and the famous Caves of Nerja.
Discover more great Andalucia road trips here.
Visiting Andalucía: FAQs
To help plan your South Spain itinerary, here are answers to some commonly asked questions.
Is 1 Week in Andalucia Enough?
On a 7 day southern spain itinerary you’ll be able to see quite a few of the major highlights. However, theres still so much more to explore. If you have more time, I definitely recommend spending at least 2 weeks or more in Andalucia to really take in all the region has to offer. You could also tag on a trip from Spain to neighbouring Portugal!
What’s Driving in Andalucia Like?
Driving in Andalucia is generally straightforward, with good-quality roads and well-marked signs. However, before you set out on your southern Spain road trip it’s a good idea to read up on some of the local driving laws and customs before hitting the road. It’s also worth noting that some of the smaller towns and villages may have narrow streets and can be challenging to drive through.
Can I Do This 7 Day Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary Using Public Transport?
If you’re travelling on a budget or planning on backpacking Andalucia, it is possible to complete this 7 day southern Spain road trip itinerary using public transport. However, keep in mind that you may need to alter the route and plan for longer travel times between destinations.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Andalucía?
This Andalusia road trip could be done any time of the year, however, summer can get insanely hot and crowded so if you prefer to avoid the high tourist season, consider visiting during spring or autumn. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
What’s the Weather in Southern Spain?
The weather in Andalucia can vary depending on the time of year and location. Generally, summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild with some occasional rain. In the mountains – like the Sierra Nevada – you might even find snow during the winter months.
What to Eat in Andalucia
During this south of Spain trip you’re bound to come across plenty of local foods. I’m a vegetarian – so the dishes I recommend are;
- Gazpacho (a refreshing cold tomato soup with olive oil)
- Tortilla de patatas (a potato omelette)
- Garbanzos y espinacas (a chickpea and spinach stew)
- Salmorejo (another cold soup, similar to gazpacho)
- Salmorejo (another cold tomato soup, thicker than gazpacho)
- Pisto con huevo (similar to ratatouille)
- Churros con chocolate (a sweet snack for breakfast or dessert)
If you’re a meat eater – I suggest trying jamón ibérico, chorizo or croquetas. These are easy to find in local restaurants and markets.
And of course, don’t forget to sample the famous sherry wine
What to Pack for Your Road Trip
Your packing list will vary depending on what time of year you’re doing this 7 day Andalucia itinerary. However, here are some general items to remember:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and a hat (especially in summer)
- Layers for cooler evenings
- Swimsuit and beach towel (if visiting during summer)
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera to capture all the beautiful views
If you plan on visiting any religious sites, make sure to dress appropriately (i.e. cover your shoulders and knees). It’s also a good idea to bring a small daypack for any hikes or trips to the beach.
Final Thoughts: One Week in Andalusia, Spain
As you’ve just read, this 7-day trip through Andalucia offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
From renowned cities like Seville and Granada to UNESCO heritage sites, the charm of the white villages, and some adrenalin-pumping adventure thrown in for good measure – this trip will leave you longing for more.
If you enjoyed this South Spain itinerary 7 days guide, you may also want to consider extending your trip to explore other regions of Spain, such as Madrid or Barcelona.
Or, if you have more time, why not add in a few days in Portugal or Morocco?
