Why do you need a road trip to Southern Spain?
Southern Spain is a beautiful country with sunshine, amazing beaches and tasty food. Most people who go to Southern Spain are tourists, but if you want to make the journey more unique and less touristy, here is your guide on what to do in southern Spain.
The Best Places To Visit In Southern Spain
Southern Spain consists of mainly sunny beaches, secluded coves and a variety of landscapes from Mediterranean to semi-desert.
The south coast is made up of Mediterranean beaches which are ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The scenery in this region is made up of low mountains with a variety of holiday resorts, hotels and restaurants.
Southern Spain Road trip is a perfect holiday for anyone looking to get away. Here are some of the best destinations in Southern Spain, with tips on where to go and what to do there. But look below for the Ultimate Road trip.
Seville: The capital city of Andalusia, it's known for its world-class flamenco shows and amazing tapas bars!
Cadiz: The oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe has great food, beaches, architecture and festivals.
Granada: A beautiful city that highlights Moorish architecture like no other place in Spain with Alhambra palace at its center This Road Trip is one you'll never forget!
Ronda: One of the most picturesque villages in Andalusia, it's known for its dramatic location atop a gorge.
Vejer de la Frontera: A small village with stunning views, great food and wine, and lovely people.
Cordoba: Once the capital of the Islamic Caliphate in Spain, it's home to one of the largest and most important mosques in Europe.
Malaga: The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, this city is full of culture and history. Be sure to check out the Gibralfaro castle!
What Is the Perfect Time for a Road Trip through Southern Spain?
The climate in Southern Spain is similar to that of other Mediterranean countries like Greece or Italy - dry and warm with occasional rainstorms or snowfalls during winter months. The best time to go on a road trip would be from April to October when the weather is generally pleasant. If you are interested in food festivals during your stay, there are plenty happening throughout this region between March and August which will not disappoint you. Cultural events also happen throughout this region between December and March.
Ultimate Road Trip of Southern Spain | 1 Month Itinerary
Although not technically "southern" Spain, Salamanca is a brilliant home base to start this ultimagte road trip. Salamanca is a city in northwestern Spain that is known for its grand architecture and University of Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain. The city is also home to beautiful cathedrals and churches, many of which are decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. Some notable places to visit in Salamanca include the Plaza Mayor, the University of Salamanca, the Cathedral of Salamanca, the Church of San Esteban, and the Convent of Santa Clara.
The Plaza Mayor is a large public square in the center of Salamanca that is surrounded by beautiful buildings like the City Hall and the Royal Palace. The University of Salamanca is a world-renowned university that was founded in 1218 and is one of the oldest universities in Spain. The Cathedral of Salamanca is a beautiful gothic-style cathedral that was constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries.
The Church of San Esteban is known for its elaborate stonework and stained glass windows, while the Convent of Santa Clara showcases an architectural style called Plateresque which features intricate carved details on stone surfaces. Click here for great places to visit in Salamanca.
Cáceres, Spain
If you're looking for a beautiful and historic city to enjoy your Spanish holidays in, look no further than Cáceres. This enchanting city is home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in all of Europe, and its narrow streets and ancient buildings will transport you back in time.
Some of the must-see places in Cáceres include the Plaza Mayor, the University of Extremadura, the Cathedral of Cáceres, and the old Jewish Quarter. The Plaza Mayor is a large public square in the heart of the city that is surrounded by beautiful renaissance and baroque-style buildings. The University of Extremadura is one of the most important universities in Spain, and its campus is beautiful and full of character.
The Cathedral of Cáceres is a grand gothic-style cathedral that was constructed between the 14th to 16th centuries, while the old Jewish Quarter showcases an area where Jews once lived during medieval times.
Mérida, Spain
Mérida, Spain is a city that is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins. The city was founded by the Romans in 25 BC, and it's home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in all of Europe.
Some of the must-see places in Mérida include the Roman Theatre, the Temple of Diana, the amphitheater, and the aqueduct. The Roman Theatre is an impressive amphitheater that was built in 16 BC and is still in use today. The Temple of Diana is a beautiful temple that was dedicated to the goddess Diana, and the amphitheater is an impressive structure that was once used for gladiator fighting games. The aqueduct is an imposing structure that was built in the first century AD and is still in use today.
Seville
Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a city that is full of culture, history, and amazing food. If you're looking for things to do in Seville, here are some ideas to get you started:
Visit the Plaza de España. This beautiful plaza is located in Maria Luisa Park and is surrounded by stunning architecture.
Take a walk through the old Jewish quarter. This area is home to some of the oldest buildings in Seville and is a great place to explore.
Explore the Cathedral of Seville. This magnificent cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and is definitely worth a visit.
Go shopping on Calle Sierpes. This is the city's most famous shopping street and features endless shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.
Cadiz
Another one of my favorite cities in southern Spain is Cadiz! A lot of people don't realize that this stunning city on the Atlantic coast was actually founded by the Phoenicians way back in 1100 BC.
Some interesting things you can do while visiting Cadiz include touring Castillo de Santa Catalina (a fortress built in 1598), enjoying some tapas at El Rinconcillo (considered to be Seville's oldest bar which has been around since 1750), exploring Barrio de la Viña (an outdoor market with plenty of) or simply relaxing at Playa de la Victoria (one of the city's most popular beaches).
Vejer de la Frontera, Spain
This gorgeous town is perched atop a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and its white-washed houses and narrow streets will make you feel as if you've stepped back in time.
Some of the must-see places in Vejer de la Frontera include the Plaza del Cabildo, the Iglesia de Santa María, and the Torre de los Guzmanes. The Plaza del Cabildo is a beautiful square that is home to a 16th century town hall, while the Iglesia de Santa María is an impressive church with an ornate facade. The Torre de los Guzmanes is a tower that was once used as a prison, and it offers stunning views of Vejer de la Frontera and the Mediterranean Sea.
Arcos de la Frontera
Arcos de la Frontera is a beautiful town in southern Spain that is known for its narrow streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
If you're looking for a place to eat in Arcos de la Frontera, here are some of my favorite recommendations:
Restaurante El Cenador – This restaurant offers wonderful views of the town and the sea, and it specializes in seafood dishes.
Restaurante La Bodega – This cozy little restaurant serves up some of the best tapas in town, and it's always packed so be sure to reserve a table ahead of time.
Restaurante El Mirador – This restaurant is located right on the water and serves up delicious seafood dishes.
Grazalema
If you're looking for a charming mountain town to explore in southern Spain, be sure to check out Grazalema! This picturesque town is known for its whitewashed houses and narrow streets, and it's the perfect place to wander around for a day or two.
Some of the must-see places in Grazalema include the Plaza de España, the Iglesia de la Virgen de la Peña, and the Mirador del Archidona. The Plaza de España is a beautiful square that is home to a 16th century town hall, while the Iglesia de la Virgen de la Peña is an impressive church with an ornate facade. The Mirador del Archidona is the highest point in town and offers stunning views over Grazalema.
Ronda, Spain
Just a short drive from both Seville and Cadiz is Ronda, another one of my favorite places to visit in southern Spain! This amazing city features a gorge that runs right through it which makes for some spectacular scenery. Some things you can do while visiting Ronde include exploring its old Moorish quarter with narrow cobblestone streets lined with ancient buildings or taking an exciting ride over Puente Nuevo via cable car for some truly spectacular views! If you're looking for restaurants in Ronda, here are three great options:
El Burro – The food served at this restaurant is simply delicious, and the service is always friendly.
La Rebotica – This restaurant serves up some of the best traditional Spanish and Andalusian cuisine in town, and it also has a great bar with an extensive wine list!
Restaurante Puerto Viejo – This restaurant offers fantastically fresh seafood dishes as well as spectacular views of Ronda from its outdoor terrace.
Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas is a small town in southern Spain that is best known for its unique architecture. The town is built into the side of a rocky cliff, and the houses are all built directly into the rockface.
Some of the must-see places in Setenil de las Bodegas include the Plaza de Andalucía, the Iglesia de la Encarnación, and the Castillo de Setenil. The Plaza de Andalucía is a beautiful square that is home to a 16th century town hall, while the Iglesia de la Encarnación is an impressive church with an ornate facade. The Castillo de Setenil is a castle that is located on a hill overlooking the town and offers some stunning views.
If you're looking for some amazing places to take photos in Setenil de las Bodegas, be sure to check out these spots:
Plaza de la Constitución – This plaza is the perfect place to snap some photos of the beautiful white-washed houses that line the streets of Setenil de las Bodegas.
Mirador de la Peña – This viewpoint offers stunning views over the village and the surrounding countryside, and it's a great place to take photos of the gorgeous Andalusian landscape.
Calle de los Gigantes – This narrow street is lined w face. This is a fascinating village that was created as a defense from attacking pirates and it offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea!
Marbella, Spain
A day trip to the city of Marbella is a great way to enjoy some sun and relaxation. This coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, chic boutiques, and luxurious hotels, and is the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun.
Some of the must-see places in Marbella include the Puerto Banús Marina, the Marbella Old Town, and the Plaza de los Naranjos. The Puerto Banús Marina is a glamorous marina that is home to luxury yachts and designer boutiques, while the Marbella Old Town is a charming area with narrow streets and Andalusian architecture. The Plaza de los Naranjos is a beautiful square that is located in front of the city hall, and it's home to a wealth of restaurants.
If you're looking for some great places to eat or drink while visiting Marbella, here are three fantastic options:
Cafe Chopin – This cafe serves up delicious coffee drinks as well as mouthwatering pastries!
Bodega El Tenorio – This is a great place to enjoy some traditional Spanish tapas, and the atmosphere is always lively and fun.
The Yacht Club – This bar offers amazing views of the Puerto Banús Marina as well as a wide selection of drinks and cocktails.
Malaga, Spain
If you've made it to Malaga by this point during your Spanish holiday, then congratulations! You deserve an ice cream for making it this far without giving up :)
This vibrant city is known for its stunning natural beauty along with its interesting art scene that features plenty of museums to visit during your Spanish holiday. Some of the must-see places in Malaga include Parque Carmen Thyssen Málaga (Carmen Thyssen Museum), Museo Picasso Malagueño (Picasso's Museum)
Parque Carmen Thyssen Málaga showcases some beautiful sculptures by famous artists like Auguste Rodin and Eduardo Chillida, while Museo Picasso Malagueño offers an intimate glimpse into the life and work of one of the world's most famous painters.
Granada, Spain
If you're looking for an enchanting city with plenty of history and culture to enjoy, look no further than Granada. This beautiful city is home to some of the most impressive Moorish architecture in all of Europe, and its narrow streets and ancient buildings will transport you back in time.
Some of the must-see places in Granada include the Alhambra Palace, the Generalife Gardens, the Cathedral of Granada, and the Albayzín district. The Alhambra Palace is a breathtaking palace that was constructed by the Moors in 1238 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. The Generalife Gardens are a beautiful set of gardens that were once the private gardens of the Alhambra Palace, and the Cathedral of Granada is a stunning gothic-style cathedral.
The Albayzín district is an ancient neighborhood in Granada that is known for its narrow streets and Moorish architecture.
Baeza, Spain
Look no farther than Baeza if you're seeking for a delightful and historic city in which to spend your Spanish holidays.. This enchanting city is home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in all of Europe, and its narrow streets and ancient buildings will transport you back in time.
Some of the must-see places in Baeza include the Plaza Mayor, the Casa del Corregidor, and the Cathedral of Baeza. The Plaza Mayor is a large public square in the heart of the city that is surrounded by beautiful renaissance and baroque-style buildings, while the Casa del Corregidor showcases an impressive mansion with stunning interior courtyards.
The Cathedral of Baeza was constructed between 1522 to 1667 and it's famous for its ornate doorway known as "Puerta de las Palmas."
Córdoba, Spain
If you're looking for a city that has plenty of Moorish architecture to admire during your Spanish holiday, look no further than Córdoba. This ancient city was once home to an impressive Islamic civilization and it's filled with stunning mosques and other fascinating structures from the era.
Some of the must-see places in Cordoba include Mezquita de la Anunciación (the Mosque-Cathedral), Juderia del Tránsito, Calleja de las Flores, La Sinagoga del Transito, Puente Romano over Río Guadalquivir River , Bulevar Sénchez Pizjuan Bridge , Plaza de la Corredera, and Paseo del Arte.
The Mezquita de Anunciación is a stunning mosque that was once a church but has been converted into one of Europe's most impressive mosques during the Middle Ages. The phyaralom-style Juderia del Tránsito synagogue is an ornate building with beautiful interior courtyards, while Calleja de las Flores showcases some historic homes along its narrow lanes.
La Sinagoga del Transito is an imposing structure that dates back to 1315 AD and it features several beautiful arches around the entrance doorways, Puente Romano over Río Guadalquivir River , Bulevar Sénchez Pizjuan Bridge , Plaza de la Corredera, and Paseo del Arte are all lovely public squares in this town.
One of the best ways to see this incredible building is on a guided tour which will give you access to parts that are otherwise off limits as well as providing plenty of interesting (and sometimes funny!) anecdotes about the site! If you're looking for restaurants in Cordoba that serve traditional Spanish cuisine, here are three great recommendations:
Restaurante Abdel – This restaurant offers fantastic food at reasonable prices with delicious tapas dishes like eggplant stuffed with ground beef or garlic shrimp.
El Choto de Carmona - Another one of my personal favorites is El Choto de Carmona where they make their own chorizo fresh daily!
Other brilliant destinations in Southern Spain
If you are considering a trip to Southern Spain, don’t forget about these off the beaten track destinations. You will be able to visit some of the most beautiful cities in Europe and experience unforgettable food adventures with your friends or family. Whether you are looking for an active vacation filled with hiking trails or just want to relax on the beach without being bothered by anyone, this list has it all! What have we missed? Where else should people go in Southern Spain? Share where you recommend someone travel in southern Spain below!
