Andalusia travel guide pdf. Sights of Andalusia - what to see
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Why go and what to see in Andalusia
Andalusia is the southernmost region of Spain, washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic. The cities of Andalusia are filled with history and extraordinary architectural sights, while the coast is famous for its endless sandy beaches and amazing landscapes. For a traveler, Andalusia is a two-in-one region, which is also suitable for excursions and beach vacations. And if beach season lasts from May to September inclusive, a varied excursion is possible year-round, since the region has a mild climate and rarely is bad weather.
The history of Andalusia is closely connected with the reign of the Moors in the era of the early Middle Ages. It is not surprising that in many cities in the region amazing monuments of Islamic heritage have been preserved that are adjacent to typically Catholic churches and cathedrals (Spain is traditionally a Catholic country). Almost all major cities of Andalusia have their own alcazar (palace) and alcazaba (fortress). Andalusian cities that are worth exploring include, in particular, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Cordoba, Cadiz and some other smaller towns.
Speaking about the beach component of the rest, it is worth noting that for the tourist there are practically unlimited possibilities. The main beach areas in Andalusia are the Costa de la Luz, the Costa del Sol and the Costa de Almeria. Each coast has its own characteristics, and resort centers can be called such towns as Marbella, Cadiz, Almeria, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Nerja and others.
There are many attractions in Andalusia that are not related to the sea. For example, there are dozens of nature parks here, including the famous Sierra Nevada Mountain Park, Doñana National Park, Cabo de Gata Coastal Park, Tarifa Dunes and much more. Andalusia owes its diverse nature to a climate that ranges from the typically Mediterranean border with Portugal to the semi-desert in the Almeria desert (among other things, the only one in Europe). Read also what other regions are popular for .
Martin Haisch / Malaga
Visa and entry rules for Spain
To enter Spain, a Spanish national or Schengen Type C (tourist) visa is required. You can also get to Spain with a guest visa (an invitation from the Spanish side is required). You can open a Spanish visa at the Embassy or Consulate of Spain (Moscow, St. Petersburg) or at the numerous visa centers that exist in almost every major city. In order to open a visa, you will need to collect a standard package of documents, take biometric fingerprints (directly upon delivery of documents), apply for (insurance amount not less than 30 thousand euros). Return tickets and hotel reservations of the hotels where you intend to stay are also attached to the documents. As a rule, a visa is opened for a period of several days to two weeks, less often - longer.
The rules of entry into Spain are standard for Europe, as Spain is part of the Schengen area. During passport control, you may be asked to present a printout of travel insurance, hotel reservations, return tickets, so you must have them at hand. The rest of the procedure is standard and does not take much time.
harvey barriso / roman bridge Climate and weather in Andalusia
In most of the territory of Andalusia, the Mediterranean climate prevails, while in the continental part the weather is hotter, in the coastal part the heat is mitigated by the sea breeze, in the Sierra Nevada mountains snow falls in winter, but in the desert of Almeria all year round you can observe the "lunar" landscapes. Despite the great variety of climatic zones, the weather in Andalusia is quite mild and one of the warmest in Europe, the proximity of Africa (across the strait) affects.
Summer time in Andalusia is ideal for a beach holiday, the water on the coast warms up to comfortable temperatures closer to June and lasts until the end of September. It is also worth noting that on the Costa del Sol several times during the summer, cold currents can come, but this phenomenon is not long in time. As for the Costa de la Luz, here you can swim, starting in June, despite the fact that the coast is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The maximum comfort for swimming the temperature reaches in July-August. The earliest swimming season opens in the Costa de Almeria, as there is a semi-desert climate.
lucia.lence / sunset in saint petri How to get to Andalusia
The most popular ways to get to Andalusia are considered to be flights to Malaga or Madrid. Malaga is located in the eastern part of Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol, it is convenient to relax from such resorts as Marbella, Benalmadena, Nerja, Torremolinos, Mijas and others, as well as explore Granada and Ronda. Madrid is located not in Andalusia, but in the neighboring region of Castile, from which it is convenient to travel to cities such as Seville and Cordoba, as well as visit the resorts of Costa de la Luz, including Cadiz, Huelva and Tarifa. A convenient train connection was established between the cities, so you can get from one part of Andalusia to another in just a couple of hours. It is also worth noting that one hundred train travel in Spain is one of the cheapest in Europe.
Flights to Malaga and Madrid are carried out by both Russian and Spanish airlines. Flight time is approximately 5-5.5 hours from Moscow. There are also flights with transfers in European cities (such flights are usually cheaper than direct flights). You can fly directly to Madrid and Malaga, in addition to Moscow, from St. Petersburg, while other cities in Russia will require a change in the capital. You can clarify the flight schedule for the desired route on the ticket booking services:
In Malaga, planes land at the Costa del Sol International Airport, 8 km from the city center. There are 3 terminals at the airport, airplanes from Russia are serviced by terminal No. 3. You can get from the airport to Malaga and to other resorts of the Costa del Sol by bus, commuter train or taxi. Bus stops and the railway station are located right at terminal No. 3, which is very convenient for landing. You can find a taxi car at the exit of the terminal, or order a transfer in advance.
On services and you can book a shuttle service to any desired resort on the Costa del Sol (Marbella, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Mijas, Nerja and others). You can go to other cities of Andalusia from Malaga by train. So, the travel time from Malaga to Granada will be about 3 hours, to Ronda - 1 hour 50 minutes. Schedule - at the railway service .
Kamyar Adl / Marbella Public transportation in Andalusia
To travel between the cities of Andalusia among public transport, it is most convenient to use trains, because this method is the fastest and most comfortable. By trains, you can get to almost any, even the smallest settlement (although there are exceptions, for example, you can’t get to Marbella by train). The train schedule to the desired city can always be specified on the railway service . You can also travel between cities by regular buses, but the number of such routes is limited, and the travel time is much longer. You can see the bus schedule on the website Alsa and on the sites of several other regional carriers.
In the cities themselves, within the historical centers where the main attractions are concentrated, you can move around on foot. In addition, in the large cities of Andalusia, such as Seville and Malaga, there is a developed network of public transport, including buses, metro and trams.
Min Zhou / Metropol Parasol Andalusia by car; Rent a Car
Andalusia is a rather large region by the standards of Europe, 8 provinces are located here at once, and all of them are interconnected by highways, along which you can easily, quickly and comfortably travel by car. In general, traveling in Andalusia by car is one of the best ideas for independent tourism. Firstly, by car you can get to places of the region that are not accessible by public transport, this concerns, first of all, . Secondly, when moving by car, you can forget about not always convenient public transport schedules and travel at your own pace and rhythm. Thirdly, the availability of a car at hand solves a lot of applied problems, such as the issue of transfer, tickets for city transport, etc. It is not surprising that car rental in Spain is becoming more and more in demand from year to year.
In order to rent a car in the cities of Spain, you must present a standard set of documents - a passport, a driver’s license (international or national new type with an entry in Latin) and a bank card to pay for services and block the deposit. The registration procedure itself does not take more than 20 minutes, and they may also offer you additional car insurance. A convenient option is the ability to book the desired class of car in advance. You can do this on the services for booking a car, just select the city in which you plan to rent and the proper class of car:
Emilio / Spain Motorways Cities of Andalusia
In Andalusia, no matter what the city is, it is a real gem of architectural thought. Even in the small cities of the region, one can sometimes find unique historical monuments, let alone large cities, which, in fact, are major tourist centers not only in Spain, but throughout Europe. The most visited cities of Andalusia are Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga and Cadiz. More about the sights of each of them further:
Is the administrative center of Andalusia, its cultural and tourist capital with many historical monuments and architectural attractions, some of which are even included in the list world heritage UNESCO. Holidays in Seville is a mixture of diverse excursions, excellent cuisine, bullfighting and flamenco. The main tourist sites are the Seville Alcazar, the Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, Piazza di Spagna and Maria Luisa Park, the Parasol Metropol Parasol, Pilate’s house, the Torre del Oro tower, the Maestrans bullring, the Flamenco Museum and much more;
- a city where Moorish motifs and flaming Gothic were mixed, and the Mudejar style was born. Granada boasts a huge number of UNESCO monuments, the main of which is the Granada Alhambra and the ancient quarter of Albasyin. In addition, the Cathedral of Granada, the palace and gardens of Generalife, as well as the Sacromonte Abbey in the vicinity of the city deserve attention;
- a city that appeared back in ancient Rome and has since experienced a rich history, and one of its most striking milestones was the kingdom of the Cordoba Caliphate in the Middle Ages. Among the attractions of Cordoba are the Alcazar Palace, Mesquite (Cathedral Mosque), the Roman Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, the Calahorra Tower, the Merced Palace. All objects are perfectly preserved and have survived to our days in their authentic form;
- a port city and a major tourist center on the Costa del Sol. Here you can stroll along the medieval streets and visit the fortresses and forts that defended the city, have fun on the beach of Malagueta and go on a further trip along the coast, not without reason Malaga is called the "gate" of the Costa del Sol. The city’s top attractions include the Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, the La Malaguet bullring, the fortress of Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, the La Concepcion Botanical Garden, the old port of the city, and, of course, the local beaches;
- It is considered the most ancient city in Europe. Cadiz is located on the Atlantic coast, has breathtaking sandy beaches and a number of historical attractions that make the city unique. Despite the fact that Cadiz can be considered as a beach resort, there are no less opportunities for an excursion trip. The main objects of the city, in particular, include the Cadiz Cathedral, the Candelaria bastion, the Genoese park, the fortress of St. Sebastian and others. The best beaches in Cadiz can be called Playa Santa Maria del Mar, Playa Victoria, Playa Cortadura and Playa Caleta;
LWYang / Granada - A picturesque town lurking on sheer cliffs. The best types of Ronda are natural. Tourists willingly travel to the city to see the famous Punta Nuevo bridge, which hangs over a rocky abyss, at the bottom of which the Guadalevin River flows. In this case, it is fair to say that the arch bridge of Punta Nuevo is better to see once than to hear about it a hundred times;
- this is the birthplace of the famous sherry drink, not without reason the city is often included in the route gastronomic tour in Andalusia. In addition to wine tasting, Jerez is definitely worth a visit to see one of the largest Cathedrals in the region, take a walk in the local Alcazar, visit the Church of St. Michael and the Atalaya Museum Complex. Do not forget that in the vicinity of the city there are hundreds of wineries that invite guests to taste their products;
- A small but very colorful town located in the vicinity of the Doñana National Park and near the border of Portugal. Huelva is not typical Spain, there is a lot of English, both in architecture and in design. From what is definitely worth seeing in Huelva, one can name the Cathedral, the Roman aqueduct, St. Peter's Church and, of course, the house of Columbus. In the vicinity of Huelva there are also many attractions, such as the Monastery of St. Clara, the Church of the Virgin de la Sinta, the Doñana National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spacious sandy beaches of Huelva also cannot but bewitch;
- The main attraction of Tarifa is the reference point that separates the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This point is not symbolic, having arrived in Tarifa, you really will see how translucent emerald sea water and the black blue of the ocean mix along the coast. Tarifa is the southernmost point of Europe, Africa begins through the strait, so it is not surprising that it is here that the local sandy beaches pass into real dunes and dunes. However, swimming here is not always comfortable, strong winds blow, but the place can be advised to all lovers of windsurfing and kiting.
steven gerner / Ronda Bridge Andalusia beaches and resorts
Andalusia is one of best places for a beach holiday in Spain. The beaches here are entirely sandy, golden, spacious, while surprisingly clean, well-groomed and, importantly, free. Cleanliness is strictly monitored by local authorities, so many marked with the blue flag, as the cleanest beaches in the world. Conventionally, the entire coast of Andalusia is divided into three large areas - Costa de la Luz (Coast of the World), washed by the Atlantic, Costa del Sol (Beach of the Sun), washed by the Mediterranean Sea and Costa de Almeria, which is also washed by the Mediterranean Sea but differs in landscape due to the proximity of the Almeria desert.
Of the above cities, beach resorts can undoubtedly be attributed to and with their amazing golden sandy beaches. Both resorts are located in the Costa de la Luz, i.e. washed by the atlantic ocean. The swimming season here lasts from late May to mid-September, the best months for swimming are July and August, when the water off the coast warms up to maximum temperatures. Further about the other beach resorts of Andalusia:
- the resort is located on the Costa de la Luz, here the Guadalquivir river merges with the Atlantic, and here is the Doñana National Park. The best beach area can be considered a series of beaches Bajo de Guía, Calzada, Piletas and La Jara, as well as the beaches of neighboring Chipiona;
- a secluded resort on the Costa de la Luz with crystal clear white beaches and calm waters of the bay. The best beaches can be found in the area of \u200b\u200bSt. Petri, which is considered protected;
- One of the most popular resorts on the Costa del Sol. The advantage of the resort is its developed infrastructure. The Marbella beach line is sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, equipped to the maximum, starting from sunbeds, umbrellas and deck chairs and ending with equipment for aquatic species sports, bars, cafes and open-air parties;
- the main resort on the Costa de Almeria. This resort is quite young by the standards of Spain, but the modern infrastructure makes it very competitive. The main advantage of Almeria, in addition to its developed infrastructure, is its sandy beaches, inflated from the African desert. The coast of the Costa de Almeria is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, and the holiday season lasts from June to September inclusive;
kevin pacheco / Almeria beaches - the second largest beach resort of Costa del Sol after Marbella. The best beaches here are the beaches of Malapesquera Torrebermeia, Bill-Bill, Arroyo de la Miel, La Viborilla, Las Yukas. Another advantage of the resorts is all sorts of entertainment complexes, natural parks and other activities that only Benalmadena can offer in the range of Costa del Sol resorts;
- the closest beach resort to Costa del Sol to Malaga. The development of infrastructure in conjunction with long sandy beaches make Torremolinos a very popular place in the "high" swimming season. The beach line of the resort is conditionally divided into two parts - El Bahondillo in the east and La Carihuela in the west, both are great for swimming and relaxing;
- The resort is famous for its pristine 8-kilometer-long beaches listed on the Blue Flag. The coast is washed by the waters of Middle-earth, there is a gentle entrance to the sea, the place is great for families, including with young children. The best beaches of Fuengirola - Los Boliches, Las Gavitolas, San Francisco and Torreblanca;
- a small but very comfortable resort on the Costa del Sol. The place is famous for its Mijas Costa coastline and the Aquamihas water park. To visit the local water park, tourists come to Mijas from all nearby resorts, including Marbella and Fuengirola;
- It is both a beach and sightseeing city. The beaches of Nerja are located in secluded sandy bays that are sheltered from the winds, in addition, they are amazingly picturesque. The bays are surrounded by local mountains, climbing on which you can see breathtaking landscapes. It is not surprising that it is in Nerja that the "Balcony of Europe" is located, from which you can even see the coast of Africa in fine weather. You should definitely visit the caves of Nerja, which are fraught with many surprises;
- Costa del Sol, the most remote resort from Malaga, is suitable for those who seek privacy. The main attractions of Estepona are beautiful deserted beaches, snow-white houses of the old city, a botanical garden, a zoo. Just think, the beaches of Estepona stretch along the coast for 22 kilometers, is this not a paradise for lovers of beach holidays!
rey perezoso / Caleta Beach Hotels of Andalusia, Spain
In Andalusia, the hotel infrastructure is well developed. In large cities, you can find chain hotels, and hotels of the type of "bed and breakfast", and budget "deuces" and "three rubles", while at the resorts along the coast there is a whole chain of beach hotels with a full range of relevant functions. The price category of hotels in Andalusia is considered quite affordable and comparable, for example, with the prices of hotels in Catalonia. Also in Andalusia, distribution of such type of accommodation as renting apartments has spread. Moreover, accommodation in apartments is popular both in large cities such as Seville or Malaga, and in small towns on the coast.
You can find a suitable hotel / apartment in Andalusia, as well as check availability for specific dates on specialized services for searching hotel offers:
Booking - booking hotels in 120,000 destinations around the world;
Roomguru - The best deals from thousands of hotel booking sites.
When choosing a hotel, pay attention to such parameters as the location, the presence of a beach area (if this is a resort on the coast), the type of food, the presence of parking (if traveling by car). In anticipation of the high season, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
elliott brown / Mijas Travel Insurance
Going on a trip to Andalusia or any other part of Spain, do not forget to draw up a travel insurance policy, which is mandatory already at the stage of obtaining a tourist visa (must be presented when applying for a visa). You can take out insurance yourself without leaving your home. There are special services for this:
- online insurance for travelers abroad and traveling in Russia;
- aboutonline service for the selection and purchase of travel insurance with the ability to compare offers from various insurance companies;
You can purchase a policy online, and then print it on a regular printer. Insurance must be attached to the documents for a visa, you also need to have it with you at the time of passing passport control upon arrival at the airport. Please note that the minimum insurance coverage for travel to Schengen countries (including Spain) is 30 thousand euros. Medicine in Spain is paid and in each case can be very expensive, so having insurance with you is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Jorge Franganillo / Sacromonte District We will be happy to answer your questions in the comments!
Photo at the beginning of the article: Edmund Gall
Andalusia is my love! Sunny, tasty, beautiful, it will not leave anyone indifferent. Here are beautiful authentic cities, and the sea, behind which sultry Africa is hiding, and frantic flamenco dances, and endless tapas in bars.
In the new material I share my impressions and tips on the colorful southern region of Spain - Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz and Granada - all that is worth seeing in Andalusia, in seven days of an intensive route.
The first day. Seville Alcazar and flamenco.
Morning. Familiarity with Andalusia is certainly worth starting with the capital of the region - Seville. Like other cities in Andalusia, Seville was once part of Arab Spain, which left its mark on the local architecture. It was under the influence of Islamic Arabs that the local style, the Mudejar, was formed, in which elements of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance art were intertwined. Luxurious carved arches, colored ceramic mosaics and richly decorated ceilings are especially characteristic of this style.
An example of the Mudejar style in Seville is the Seville Alcazar - the royal residence of the Spanish kings, with which it is worth starting an acquaintance with Seville. The first buildings on the territory of the palace date back to the Roman period, then the early Christian basilica was located here. In the VIII century, when Andalusia was conquered by the Arabs, the first fortress was built here, which successfully withstood the blow of the Vikings, which is why they began to call it Alcazar - from the Arabic “fortress”. The heyday of Alcazar falls on the XIII century, when a representation of the Cordoba caliphate was established here.
After the Reconquista and the conquest of Andalusia by Catholics, Alcazar began to acquire Gothic features in architectural terms, and later elements of the Renaissance appeared here. However, the features characteristic of Islamic architecture have survived to this day, when the main buildings were located around the perimeter of the courtyard. Especially beautiful is the courtyard, which is called Maiden. According to legend, there were one hundred of the most beautiful Christian virgins, intended as a gift to the Caliph of Cordoba.
To save queuing time, be sure to buy a ticket to Alcazar online on the website (ticket price is 11.50 euros + 5 euros for an audio guide - be sure to take it, it’s very interesting to listen to it). Tickets are sold for a specific date and time, when approaching Alcazar, go separately for those who already have tickets. Printing tickets is optional, you can show a copy from the post office.
Day. Near the Alcazar there are two more noteworthy buildings. Directly opposite a grandiose building that you can’t miss at all - the Granada Cathedral - the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe. In addition to the paintings of Velazquez and Goya, the remains of Christopher Columbus are stored here, however, it is not known for certain whether they really belong to the great navigator, because they were transported several times between continents and countries, so that everything could get mixed up.
The Giralda Tower adjoins the cathedral, built in the XII century during the rule of Muslims in the Pyrenees, and at that time was the minaret of the Seville mosque. After the conquest of Andalusia by the Catholics, the mosque was rebuilt into a cathedral, and the tower was used as a bell tower. In the XVI century, the tower was rebuilt in the Renaissance, fashionable for that time, and a bronze figure was placed at the top, which began to serve as a weather vane. Hence the name of the tower - La Hiralda - in Spanish "weather vane".
After lunch, head to the nearby quarter of Santa Cruz. This is the former Jewish quarter, where local Jews settled after the Reconquista. It is especially nice to stroll through the narrow streets, looking for elegant shops and delicious tapas bars.
Evening.Being in Seville, you should definitely go to flamenco, even if it is a traditional tourist fun. Shows take place in the evening and it is better to buy tickets in advance. Locals recommend going to flamenco at either Casa de la Memoria (Calle Una 6) or d Bar La Anselma (Calle Pages del Corro).
Second day. Seville in the Art Deco style and the quarter de Triana.
Morning. We start the day in the central part of the city with a cup of flavored chocolate and churros - traditional Spanish pastries consumed by the locals for breakfast - at Bar El Commercio (Calle Lineros 9). Looping through the streets of the medieval center, and then along the Avenue de La Constitucion, we go to the intersection with San Fernando street, where on the corner there is a beautiful Art Deco building - the Alfonso XIII hotel, named after the Spanish king who ruled the country at the beginning of the 20th century when this hotel was built. Inside it is insanely beautiful, so be sure to stop by (they will let you in, don’t worry).
Next to the hotel is the building of the University of Seville, which used to be the royal tobacco factory, where the famous Carmen worked, the heroine of the novel by Prosper Merimet and the opera Georges Bizet. Every day a free guided tour of the campus takes place at the university, as part of which they also tell about the history of the factory. The tour starts at 11.30, the meeting place is easy to find according to the signs at the entrance to the university.
Day.From the university building, we go to the left to the park, where the main art deco pearl of Seville - Plaza de España is hiding. At the beginning of the XX century, Seville experienced a new architectural birth in connection with the Spanish-American exhibition, on the threshold of which many significant buildings appeared in the city, including Spain Square - a city ensemble in the neo-Mudejar style (the same old Mudejar style mixed with Art Deco).
Spain Square
The most beauty of this ensemble is alcove niches lined with ceramic tiles and dedicated to one or another province of Spain. Many films were shot here, including Lawrence of Arabia and even the second episode of Star Wars.
The second half we get acquainted with the fishing region of Seville - Triana - where you can get by crossing one of the bridges over the Guadalquivir River. Triana is a former area of \u200b\u200bsailors and pottery masters. In the Middle Ages, it was here that the main port in Seville was located, so sailors settled nearby. And this area was considered to be a region of gypsies, although I did not meet them.
There is one curious legend connected with the district, which I have never heard of until I went for a walk around Triana and read about it. A native of these places was a certain Juan Rodriguez Bermejo, who was a watch sailor on the Pinta ship of the notorious Christopher Columbus in 1492. According to some chronicles, it was he who first saw the land of America and, according to the initial conditions, was supposed to receive 10 thousand gold - the reward promised to the royal couple of Spain to the one who was the first to see new lands across the Atlantic Ocean. However, it was either greed or any other intention that prompted Columbus to attribute the land he saw to himself: he supposedly saw the edge on the horizon even earlier, but did not dare to claim that he saw it as land, since he was not completely sure of it.
Columbus, as you know, did not end his life very well, and nothing is known about the fate of this sailor Juan. But in memory of the place of his birth, he was called Rodrigo de Triana, and a monument was erected to him.
Among the must-see places in the area are the beautiful Iglesia de Santa Ana Church and Triana Market, where you can also eat.
For a walk in Triana (and indeed in Seville in general), you can use the Azbo Audio Tour audio guide - they are extremely interesting to tell, and it is convenient to use the application itself (do not forget to download the audio guide in advance if you have wi-fi).
Evening.Return to the center and go to one of the beautiful tapas bars of Seville, for the local cuisine is no less beautiful than the architecture. Especially good are Bar Coloniales (Plaza Christo de Burgos), Bar La Bodega (Plaza de la Alfaifa) and Bar el Rinconcillo (Calle Gerona).
Day Three We go to the sea in Cadiz.
Morning.We take a train at the Santa Justa train station in Seville (a ticket costs 12.85 euros, you should buy it in advance on the Renfe website) and go south to the city of Cadiz, which claims to be the oldest city in Western Europe, founded in 1100 BC era by the Phoenicians.
Tourists rarely get to Cadiz. The exception is February, when the famous "singing" carnival takes place in the city. For two weeks, festivities take place on the streets of the city, locals and visitors dress in extravagant costumes. Within the framework of the carnival, a song contest is held in which amateur groups - chirigotas - participate, which mainly consist of men dressed in certain costumes and singing satirical songs.
The main architectural value of Cadiz is the central cathedral of the city, where the musician Manuel de Galla and the writer José Maria Péman rest. From the cathedral, go to the promenade, where in good weather local youth will bask on the stone wall.
The promenade will lead you to the fortress of San Sebastian. In ancient times, when the Romans ruled here, the place of the fortress was the temple of Chronos, father of Zeus, and after the conquest of Andalusia by the Arabs, a full-fledged fortress with a lighthouse was built in its place.
Day.From San Sebastian, turn back to the city and you will be taken to the La Vina quarter, named after the many wine cellars that were located here. During the carnival, it is here that the chirigotas stop and entertain the crowd with their songs.
Through the interweaving of the streets of the center we go to the upper part of the city to the Plaza of Spain. Of course, it is not as elegant as the square of the same name in Seville, but with a majestic column, white buildings and palm trees it looks very pretty.
After walking along the port, go down again to the El Populo area, which is located on the left side of the cathedral. This is the oldest district of the city, where the Phoenicians, then the Romans, then the Arabs lived in different centuries. Here you can eat delicious seafood before taking the evening train back to Seville.
Day four. Christian-Muslim shrines of Cordoba.
Morning.Again fromwe take the train at the Santa Justa train station in Seville and drive to neighboring Cordoba. A ticket is also worth buying in advance online on site local Renfe railway lines, one way it will cost you 10.85 euros. It takes about 45 minutes to get there.
The first thing in Cordoba, of course, is to head to Mesquita - the once majestic mosque of the Cordoba Caliphate. In the Middle Ages, Mesquita was the largest mosque in the world, second only to the Umayyad mosque in Damascus.
In 1236, after the first successful wave of Reconquista (the so-called process of the liberation of Spain from the Arabs over several centuries), Mesquite was consecrated and turned into a Catholic church, making changes, including the architectural appearance of the building. The building was especially rebuilt in the 16th century during the reign of Charles V, when a cathedral nave appeared in the then Renaissance style. Fun fact: Charles V, seeing the renewed cathedral, exclaimed: "You destroyed something great and built something completely ordinary instead." Although the usual Mesquite can not be called.
Day.After, head through the colorful tourist street of Calles los Dianes to the second iconic attraction of Cordoba - the Alcazar of Christian kings, also known as the Cordoban Alcazar. Of course, this is also the former residence of the Arab rulers, which, like the other fortresses and palaces after the reconquest, became the residence of the Spanish kings.
Unlike the Seville Alcazar, this royal residence has been preserved to a lesser extent and is more likely a stone fortress than full-fledged interiors. But the adjoining garden is very good, with a beautiful alley of Spanish kings.
Alcazar of Christian Kings, Cordoba
From Alcazar it is convenient to walk along the embankment of the river to the Roman bridge, which was built after the famous battle of Munda in 45 BC. This was the last battle in which Guy Julius Caesar participated, after which he already returned to Rome and single-handedly ruled the Roman Republic as a dictator.
Continue left from the bridge along the white streets of Cordoba, in the arches of which are so typical of Andalusia, and in particular, the courtyards - patios decorated with various architectural elements, whether it be columns, a fountain, a pond or a bench decorated with ceramics, are hidden. Patios began to appear in the Middle Ages with an aesthetic goal - to create an atmosphere of protection from external threats, which was especially appreciated in those days (remember - the Arab conquest, Reconquista and all things), to inspire a sense of calm, tranquility, romanticism, comfort and bliss.
Evening. This time without tapas bars. Go and enjoy the Andalusian cuisine at the traditional Bodegas Campos restaurant (Calle Lineros, 32). And snacks, and meat, and fish, and desserts - everything is delicious there.
Fifth day. Granada, Granada, my Granada.
Morning.We take the Alsa bus (we buy a ticket in advance on the website, it costs about 15 euros, it takes up to three hours) and go to Granada, about which the Soviet poet Mikhail Svetlov wrote (“He sang, looking around the Native Land:“ Grenada, Grenada, Grenada my!).
Day.Leaving things at the hotel and having a little refreshment in any local restaurant, go to the Alhambra - an architectural and park ensemble, the former main residence of rulers from the Nasrid dynasty, who ruled here the Emirate of Granada until the end of the 15th century. It is not so easy to get to the Alhambra because of its insanely popular among tourists. You need to take care in advance (almost a month) to buy tickets on the official website (the total ticket, which includes the Nasridov Palace, and Generalife will cost 14 euros). If you are late with your purchase, then do not rush to spend money on insanely expensive guided tours: instead, you can buy a Granada Card tourist card for 37 euros, with which you can still go to the Granada Cathedral, the Royal Chapel and other attractions for free. Please note that when buying this card you will need to indicate the time of visiting the Nasrid palace and be strictly at this place on site.
Alhambra, Lion's Yard
Allocate at least three hours to see both the Nasridov Palace, magnificent in its architectural decoration, and the Alcazaba citadel, which offers grandiose views of the surrounding areas of Granada, and the former residence of the emirs of Geniralife.
After exploring the Alhambra, go downstairs and head to the city center to catch up to the Granada Cathedral, a magnificent Renaissance-style building, by six o’clock in the evening (the entrance will be free with the Granada Card and you will also be given an audio guide). The cathedral is insanely beautiful, and it was painted by El Greco and Jose de Ribera. Pay special attention to niches located around the perimeter of the temple, each of which is notable for either paintings or some Christian attributes.
Do not miss the royal chapel adjacent to the cathedral, where some of the most revered Spanish rulers - Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, rest. This dynastic marriage between the daughter of King Castile Juan II and the ruler of Aragon Ferdinand was the beginning of the unification of Spain into a single state. Under Isabella and Ferdinand, the Reconquista ended with the triumph of the Spanish military forces and the last bastion of Arab power on Iberian land - Granada, fell. And it was this royal couple who patronized the journey of Columbus, thereby opening the way for Spain to develop land in the New World.
Evening.Do not go far from the cathedral - by crossing the central Calle Gran via De Collon you will find yourself on the small street Calle Cetti Meriem, teeming with bars, in one of which you can spend a pleasant evening (for example, you can go to Bar la Rivera).
Day Six In the footsteps of the Arabs in Granada.
Morning.After a delicious breakfast (those who cannot live without a churros for a day can head to Churrería Alhambra on Plaza de Bib-Rambla, 27, and for those who miss traditional hipster breakfasts, I advise you to go to Cafe Baraka on Calle San Jerónimo, 24 ) we go to get acquainted with another beautiful building from the time of the reign of the Arab Nasrid - Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo. It used to be one of the emir’s palaces, and now it’s a museum where periodically various exhibitions are held.
Day.After we go on a leisurely walk to the Arab quarter of Albayzin. The hill on which the district was located was inhabited during the Roman rule in the territory of Andalusia, but the heyday falls precisely during the rule of the Arabs, when Albayzin became a quarter of merchants and craftsmen.
Albaicin
By the way, the district did not get its name because of the merchants and artisans that inhabited it. Translated from Arabic, al-bayyāzīn means "falconry area", because in ancient times there was a forest nearby (part of it has now been preserved as the Alhambra Forest), where locals loved to hunt.
Walking around the area do not miss the Mirador de San Cristobal square, which offers a beautiful view of the Alhambra, Plaza Larga, where on the weekends there is always a market where you can sell all kinds of things, the beautiful local mosque Mezquita Mayor de Granada.
Evening. Do not rush to leave Albaicin. An obligatory point of the program is to watch the sunset on Mirador San Nicolas Square, after which you can go to one of local restaurants with arabic cuisine.
The seventh day. Departure.
A separate day to calmly pack up, fly to Barcelona or Madrid, where there will still be half a day for shopping, so that in the evening or in the morning the next day fly to Russia.
A great guide to the Andalusia region. What to see interesting, which cities to go to and what natural attractions to visit. And also a selection best beaches Andalusia.
Which city will you go to?
Andalucia (Andalucía) - the birthplace of flamenco. It is here that you will see the most sensual dance in all of Spain, hear the passionate singing of "Cante Hondo", appreciate the art of the best performers. On the Andalusian land is the pride of the country - the legendary Arab citadel of the Alhambra, which survived different times and many rulers. A unique heritage of Moorish architecture has been preserved here - monuments of the Muslim era, which brought flowering to Andalusia.
My report on Andalusia
Granada
Granada is a beautiful Andalusian city. The expressive architecture of the old quarters is combined here with the elegant white buildings of the new buildings and amazingly colorful natural landscapes. The history of the city, built on three hills, dates back to ancient Roman times. Under the Romans, the small settlement of Pomegranate was part of the rich Iliberis, but the Moors who came in the 8th century captured these lands. So the majestic "red" fortress of the Alhambra appeared - one of the iconic architectural complexes of the world. Today, his visits are limited, and it is better to book an excursion to the Alhambra in advance.
Malaga
Malaga (Malaga) - a picturesque and vibrant resort, a famous shopping center, seaport. The city has preserved Roman monuments and the magnificent Palace of Moorish kings. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Incarnation (La Catedral de la Encarnación) is an architectural masterpiece of European significance. Malaga - the birthplace of Picasso; the city has both its house-museum and a gallery of works.
Seville
Plaza de España in Seville (Photo: Francisco Colinet)
Sevilla (Sevilla) - the capital of Andalusia, founded, according to legend, by Hercules himself. An indelible mark on Seville architecture was left by the years of Arab rule. The rich history of Andalusia can be traced in the guise of the old quarters of the city. Spanish Gothic has reached full grandeur in the architecture of the Cathedral of Seville. If you want to see the authentic Andalusian flamenco - you will not find better than the local tablao. The grandest bullfighting awaits you in Seville too.
Cordoba
Roman bridge in Cordoba (photo: Gonzalo Castán)
Cordoba is an amazing city. Its historical ensemble, which retains its authentic layout, is included in the UNESCO list. Here you can trace the legacy of the Phoenician and ancient Roman, Berber and Moorish, Christian and Jewish culture. In Cordoba, there is a unique architectural monument of the Muslim era - the cathedral mosque of Mesquite. Cordoban artisans became famous throughout Spain: master jewelers, tanners, ceramists.
Ronda
Ronda (Ronda) - a white city over the abyss, one of the most picturesque in Andalusia. It stands on two mountain plateaus, over the deep El Tahoe gorge with steep rock walls. The Guadalevin River flows below. The symbol of the city is the ancient stone bridge of Puente Nuevo. Ronda is considered the birthplace of the Spanish bullfighting: here is the oldest and largest in the country Plaza de Toros arena; there is also a museum dedicated to the art of bullfighters. The old center of Ronda preserves the atmosphere of the Moorish era and fragments of ancient Arab walls. On the site of the main mosque stands the magnificent Cathedral of St. Mary, founded in the 13th century.
Cadiz
Cadiz City (photo: Marc)
Cadiz (Cadiz) - rightfully considered one of the oldest European cities. Its historic quarters are located on a narrow peninsula: under the Arabs, Cadiz was the location of the military flotilla. The symbol of the city is the ancient fort of San Sebastian; The main attraction is the Cathedral of Santa Cruz - an expressive combination of Baroque, Rococo, neoclassical architecture. Cadiz is a popular resort with decent beaches and excellent fish restaurants, unrivaled in Andalusia. Cadiz Carnival is a colorful event, the third in the world in scope and mass.
Jerez de la Frontera
Statue of Tio Pepe against the backdrop of the Cathedral (photo: Francisco Parralejo Masa)
Jerez de la Frontera is famous for its famous wine, horse breeding and horsemanship, incendiary flamenco. Wine cellars occupy most of the territory of Jerez; they have become an important part of urban culture. Wine is dedicated to the exposition of several city museums. In the Cartesian monastery in the vicinity of Jerez, unique Cartesian horses were bred. The Royal Andalusian School of Riding Masters demonstrate masterly dressage and challenging equestrian exercises. The city is famous for its original flamenco school. In early spring, a festival is held here with performances by leading flamenco artists and master classes.
Jaen
Cathedral and mountain scenery (photo: Pedrobasjaen)
Jaen is surrounded by vast olive groves. This city is called the "pearl of Andalusia" - many of its architectural monuments are attributed to UNESCO heritage. Jaen’s medieval Arab baths are the largest of its kind on Spanish soil. Jaen Cathedral is a striking example of the Spanish Renaissance. Santa Catalina Castle on a rocky hill is a medieval stronghold of Christianity in Spain, the majestic symbol of Jaen.
Tarifa
Tarifa, or rather, Cape Marroka on its outskirts, is considered the southernmost point of continental Europe closest to Africa. The small town is respectfully called the "capital of the winds." Its name is consonant with the word “tariff”, and for good reason - it was here that the goods that merchants brought through Gibraltar for the first time began to be taxed. Monuments of the ancient era, Arab and Christian city walls remained here. The port of Tarifa still holds the legends of pirate times. Local kilometers-long white beaches attract tourists, and steady winds - for surf lovers.
El Chorro
El Chorro is a conservation area in the province of Malaga. Here are three unusually beautiful turquoise lakes, surrounded by a pine forest and limestone cliffs. From the village of El Chorro begins a unique pedestrian road, laid along the sheer walls of the canyon at a hundred-meter height, impressive and dangerous. It is called the Royal Trail (El Caminito del Rey). Recently, the Caminito del Rey trail has undergone extensive reconstruction, has been strengthened by safety equipment, equipped with reliable railings and lighting, and is fully equipped for tourists.
Sierra nevada
Sierra Nevada is a mountainous region, the southernmost European ski resort. Just thirty kilometers from here the Mediterranean waves splash, and here, at high peaks, snow lies from November to April. In the warm season, tourists are attracted by the Sierra Nevada trekking routes. Mountain goats and wild boars, rare Spanish capricorns, and many birds live in the national park. In the local settlement of Treveles, you can taste the best Andalusian ham from white pig meat - Jamon de Trevelez. Learn more
City guides in Andalusia:
Beach regions of Andalusia
Costa de la Luz - Coast of the world
If you want to swim in the Atlantic Ocean, you need to choose beaches on the Costa de la Luz (Costa de la Luz), the borders of which are determined by two provinces - Cadiz and Huelva. A small part of Costa de la Luz, east of Cape Marroca, is washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The main resorts of the coast are Punta Umbria, Chipiona, Rota, El Puerto de Santa Maria, Puerto Real, Chiclana, Conil, Barbate and Tarifa.
The south-west coast of Andalusia received the name "Coast of the World" because of the bright sun, which in the evening, during the order, is reflected in a special way in the sands of the coast.
Costa del Sol - Sunny Beach
Puerto Banus Beach (photo: Helena Persson)
To the "sunny coast" of Spain include coastal settlements of the province of Malaga. This name was not given to him by chance, there are 325 sunny days a year.
Here are the main beach resorts Costa del Sol:
Marbella
Costa Tropical - Salobrena (photo: Maximo Lopez)
The coast in the province of Granada is called the Costa Tropical, which means “Tropical Coast”. Due to its geographical features, this area, with a subtropical climate, is suitable for growing exotic fruits: mango, cherimoi, avocado and papaya.
Sea resorts: Almunecar, Salobrena and Motril.
Costa de Almeria
Muertos Beach (photo: Dan)
Costa de Almeria is one of the youngest resorts in Spain and so far is only gaining popularity among tourists. The coast of the province of Almeria is distinguished by a variety of contrasts. Here arid deserts alternate with green forests, and rocky plains give way to rocky massifs. Among the beach resorts, the capital of Almeria can be distinguished, for vacationers with children - Roquetas de Mar. It is also worth paying attention to the quiet beach of Mojacar.
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Southern Spain (Andalusia and Murcia) is the most valuable guardian of unique cultural monuments, Moorish roots and traditions that cannot be found in other parts of Spain. The southern regions of Spain are not the same - one went to fertile soil, the sun and the love of tourists, the other - dry, poor land and a constant struggle for life.
Andalusia is an autonomous community in Spain and an area located on the southernmost part of the Iberian Peninsula. It consists of 8 provinces: Almeria, Cordoba, Cadiz, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Huelva and Jaen.
Photo: Beautiful Andalusia Briefly about the region
Andalusia - a place with a rich history, the main role in which was played by the Moors (Arabs) and Muslim Spain - Al Andalus.
Everything that you think and imagine about Spain, in fact - about Andalusia. Passionate flamenco dance, juicy fruit, breathtaking bullfighting, Tabernas desert, Sierra Nevada ski resort, underground labyrinths of Nerja with huge caves, ancient stone bridges in Ronda and the junction of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea in Tarifa - that's all about her. These are the Moorish palaces of the Alhambra and Antequera, the white beaches of Almuñécar and the mango plantations at Motril.
In the last days of the week of February, all life in the city of Cádiz is paralyzed - the carnival begins with songs, masquerades and costumed performances. Future participants begin to think through jewelry long before the start.
Photo: Carnival in Cadiz In April, the best Spanish artisans come to Sevilla to attend the Spring Fair, a tradition dating back to the 13th century. All week the fair has fun day and night. The beginning is traditionally scheduled for April 18th.
Every even year for a month in September, Seville turns into an endless dancing city - the famous flamenco festival begins. Everything around breathes only in this rhythm.
In November, a new reason to get together - in the city of Baena, the festival of olives begins.
And a huge number of religious holidays, which the locals celebrate on a large scale.
So come to Andalusia any month - it will be fun and interesting!
Geographical differences
Photo: Spanish Flamenco Andalusia is washed by many waters - the Atlantic Ocean, the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea and has the warmest climate on the entire European continent. The sea and climate are reflected in the culture, cuisine and the development of the region in history and modernity as a resort.
How to get and move on the spot
Photo: Map of Andalusia Andalusia has an international airport in Malaga. Direct flights from Moscow are operated by Aeroflot. The average ticket price is 375 euros. Detailed information on the website www.aeroflot.ru. From St. Petersburg, only connecting flights are either through Europe or through Moscow. Cost from 280 euros.
There are options with transfers to Seville Airport, but flights are usually uncomfortable, and the average cost is from 520 euros per person.
There are car rental companies right next to Malaga Airport. If you book a car in advance, then you can rent is 20-30 euros per day. With constant moving from place to place, this is perhaps the best option for the price / comfort / quality ratio.
Why go
If you want to meet a cygan with a guitar, burning flamenco dancers, brilliant toreros and survive a real siesta, then in Andalusia you will see all this in the original. Among the most spectacular events that replace one another are the mournful processions of Good Friday and the bright flamenco festivals.
When to go
The best time in many respects is determined by the temperature column - this is a fresh April with fairs, a pleasant May and the end of September, when the heat is waning, crowds of tourists are thinning.
Cultural and historical differences
Andalusia is a treasury of the heritage of the Moors, which conquers with its grace and scope. Andalusia is the patrimony of bullfighting, and the region where flamenco is the basis of festival culture, and the siesta has not sunk into oblivion. It is also the birthplace of Picasso, Velazquez and Murillo, whose paintings adorn temples, palaces and museums.
What to see in Andalusia
Photo: Beautiful Malaga We will tell you a short plan of travel to the cities of Andalusia, based on our experience and, according to experienced tourists, on how to spend two unforgettable weeks in the Spanish region itself:
Malaga
- The old Alcazaba fortress, from centuries-old walls of which offers breathtaking views of the city and the port.
- In the very center stands, of course, a baroque cathedral. In Spain, they like to build for a long time - and this cathedral was erected a hundred years, but was never completed. One tower and part of the facade are missing. But this only adds to his charm.
- The long promenade Alley Farola is decorated with a lighthouse - La Farola.
- The Picasso Museum in the 16th-century Buenavista Palace, whose walls are decorated with 285 paintings by Pablo.
- Bishop's Palace with a florid system of walkways, stairs and galleries.
- On a hot afternoon, we recommend sheltering from the heat in the Alonso Gardens, in which there are relaxation areas and fragrant rose gardens.
- Seaport - huge ship houses regularly come here as part of numerous cruises.
You can see the beauty of Malaga in this video:
Nerja
- Huge caves with hanging stalactites from the ceiling and huge stalagmites from the floor. A long route leads from room to room, each of which is originally illuminated.
- Nearby is one of the many well-preserved ancient Roman aqueducts - Aguila.
- An excellent view of the sea from the so-called Balcony of Europe. In fine weather, the African coast is visible without binoculars.
- After a rich excursion program, the ideal conclusion is to plunge into the Mediterranean Sea. There are wonderful beaches.
You can watch the beauty and sights of Nerja on the video:
Almuñécar
- Snow-white beaches, and in the sea stands the cliff of San Cristobal. Climbing the stone steps, you find yourself at the very top.
- San Miguel Castle is part of the remains of Arab heritage on the Iberian Peninsula.
Watch a beautiful video about Almunecar:
Salobreña
- A small Arab town clinging to a rock. From here you have a great view of all the nearby plains.
- The streets here are so narrow that you need to be a pretty experienced driver so that you don’t hook anything anywhere. For pedestrians in some houses, special recesses are made in which you need to jump if the car is traveling. You can turn around only at the top. Colorful facades, ornate doors and balconies compensate for the expended effort.
- At the top is the harsh but beautiful castle of Castilo de Salobrena.
Check out the beautiful scenery in this video:
Almeria (Almería)
- Alcazaba Fortress - built in the 10th century by the Arab conquerors, the first in a series of dozens on the coast.
- Cabo da Gata Natural Park with perfectly clean beaches, and at the bottom lurks such riches as ancient Roman amphorae, reefs and even the sunken ship of the Spanish fleet. On its vast territory, we recommend traveling by bicycle. They are rented.
All the beauty of Almeria can be seen in this video:
Granada
- The Alhambra is the pearl of Granada. A magnificent palace with clever gardens, arches and statues. Each detail has its own knowledge and function. When you get here, you feel in a real Arabian tale.
- The cathedral is magnificent and pompous, but the interior is richer than the external facade. The construction lasted almost 200 years, and therefore the Baroque and Erreresco style typical of Spain was mixed here.
- The Generalife Gardens is a splendid Moorish garden, best preserved in Granada.
- Science Park is a huge interactive museum with a large area, where in many halls several exhibitions are held simultaneously.
- Mount Sacromonte, where the dwellings represent themselves well-maintained caves, dug once by expelled Muslims and Jews from the city. Now there lives a large diaspora of gypsies who organize entire shows for tourists.
This video will not leave you indifferent and inspire you to travel:
Cordoba
A unique combination of three cultures: Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Footprints are everywhere:
- Mesquita - Cathedral Mosque, included in the 12 architectural wonders of Spain.
- Asina Sahara Medina is an Arabian palace city on the territory of which excavations are still underway.
- Jewish quarter with a medieval synagogue and narrow old streets, the most famous of which is Calleja de las Flores.
- Cordoban Alcazar - has been used for tribunals of the Spanish Inquisition for 300 years. Later, Napoleon’s troops were stationed in it in 1810. Until 1931 it served as a prison.
- Calahorra Tower and Roman Bridge - the oldest tower in the city, made in the shape of a horseshoe.
- Viana Palace is a wonderful example of the life of wealthy aristocrats. Inside there are 12 courtyards with fountains, flowers and gardens. Inside are the real interiors of the former owners.
The unique beauty of Cordoba is simply mesmerizing, you can watch it on the video:
Sevilla (Sevilla)
- Alcazar is the royal residence. Over many centuries, it was rebuilt and rebuilt many times. Parts from all buildings, from the first Moorish buildings, have been preserved. We advise you to plan an entire day for inspection - there is a lot of interesting things, and in the evening concerts are held in the open air.
- The Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Spain Square is majestic and unlike any other European square.
- Maestranza is the bullfighting arena, the oldest and most famous of the existing ones.
- Monastery of St. Mary de las Cuevas - located on an island in a beautiful park.
- And many, many churches and old houses in the old city - the main street is Sierpes.
The landscapes and beauty of Seville can be seen in this video:
Cadiz (Cadiz)
- The central market, with counters bursting with seafood.
- The cathedral in the city center, built in the Rococo and Baroque styles. There is an observation deck.
- Tavira Tower - was used as a watch tower in the Middle Ages. Inside, a miracle of engineering was established - a pinhole camera, thanks to which projected views of Cadiz appear on the screen every 30 minutes.
- Old city in arabic style.
- San Sebastian Castle on an island in the ocean is a powerful fort with thick ramparts. Now the works of contemporary Andalusian artists are exhibited here.
You can see Cadiz on the video:
Tarifa is a small Arab town, a favorite place for windsurfers due to its long beach strip and good winds. The southernmost part of Europe. A unique place where you can stand on a narrow isthmus between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Photo: Tarifa Further on scenic road past wind farms to the Spanish city of La Linea, which borders ... Great Britain! It is here that the small peninsula of Gibraltar - it is called Scala - because of which Spain and Britain have been leading diplomatic disputes for many years. The border runs directly along the runway - for takeoff and landing, pedestrians patiently wait for the border to be opened. Gibraltar (Gibraltar) is the only place where monkeys live in the wild.
Gibraltar is small, but very colorful - all in the British style.
Photo: Gibraltar Then along the sea to the paradise of lovers to have fun from night to morning - Marbella (Marbella). In addition to nature parks and historical sights, the most famous bars and night clubs work here, attracting party-goers from all over the world.
The most expensive and beautiful beach of Puerto Banus, where there are luxury yachts and boats. And on the shore stands the gift of Zurab Tsereteli - the Victory monument.
Photo: Puerto Banus Beach And back to Malaga - to complete the trip with a walk around the city and a visit to the amusement park.
Major Cities and Attractions
Photo: Roman Bridge in Cordoba It seems that Andalusia is one big UNESCO monument. The most impressive architecture and interesting sights are in the main cities:
- Seville is the Andalusian capital and region of continuous festivals. The main attraction is the Alcazar Palace with a wonderful mix of Moorish and European styles, the Giralda bell tower (UNESCO), the grandiose Cathedral (UNESCO);
- Granada is a bright alluring city in the mountains, where the Moorish fortress of the Alhambra (UNESCO) and the most ancient Moorish gardens of Generalife (UNESCO) are located. On the peaks there is snow all year round, but there is no sea here;
- Malaga is a large modern city, a developed resort, full of ancient monuments and the birthplace of Picasso;
- Cordoba is the former capital of Muslim Spain, and is now a calm and beautiful city. The main memo is the Mesquite Cathedral Mosque (UNESCO);
- Cadiz is the oldest city in Europe, an excellent resort and the most attractive place for climbers thanks to the Garganta del Chorro gorge;
- Ronda is an unforgettable snow-white city hanging over a precipice.
What to do in Andalusia
Photo: Bullfight in Seville During the trip you must:
- View real flamenco in Seville;
- Go to bullfight in Seville;
- Drink sangria by the sea in Marbella;
- Collect shells in Tarifa thrown out by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean;
- Wander through the streets of Salobrena;
- Buy night catch fish in the market of Cadiz;
- Feel like a real sultan in the Alhambra;
- Visit the most beautiful cathedrals and churches in Cordoba;
- Go down to the underground labyrinth in Nerja;
- See underwater wonders in Cabo de Gata Park;
- Admire the creations of Picasso in Malaga;
- Sunbathe on the beautiful beach in Marbella.
- Explore the world in the Science Park of Granada;
- Meet the dawn on the coast after incendiary fun in the nightclubs of Marbella.
- Visit one of the magnificent cathedrals of Andalusia.
- Visit the breathtaking bullfight or visit the Maestrans bullfight arena in Seville.
- Hire a bike and go on a bike ride through the snow-white suburbs of Ronda.
- Get carried away by a flamenco show in the middle of the ancient streets of Cadiz, seen by more than one generation.
- View one of the productions of Lorca’s plays in the Generalife’s fabulous gardens in Granada.
- Experience the thrill in the grand gorge of Garganta del Chorro in the province of Cadiz.
- Look at the unique views of Gibraltar.
- See the “Andalusian horse dance” of the Royal Riding School in the small town of Jerez de la Frontera (province of Cadiz).
- Take a boat ride on the largest river in Andalusia - Guadalquivir.
- Taste gazpacho, drink sherry or a product from the Seville Brewery Cruzcampo.
Shopping (What and where to buy)
Photo: Beautiful Spanish Fans The most popular souvenirs and gifts from Andalusia:
- Bull figurines and flamenco dancer from Seville.
- Moorish-style pottery from Granada.
- Fans of all shapes and colors.
- Leather goods from Cordoba.
- A bottle of local sherry.
- Fruit teas and drinks from Granada.
- Olive oil.
- Macaroons from Seville (Almendra Suprema de Estepa).
- Chorizo \u200b\u200bpork jerky sausage.
- Inlaid caskets from Granada.
The Eagle and Tails program will tell you in detail about shopping in Seville in this video:
Prices
All prices in Spain in euros. It is desirable to exchange rubles for currency at home, since the rate abroad will most likely be unprofitable.
The price of a cup of coffee in a cafe is about 1.5 euros.
The price of lunch is from 10 to 20 euros, there are options for a buffet "menu del dia" with unlimited approaches.
The price of a dinner with alcohol is on average 30-45 euros.
Magnets for memory - 1 euro.
A taxi costs 8-10 euros depending on the trip.
Gasoline at gas stations costs 1.20 euros per liter. Diesel - 1 euro.
A room in a 3 star hotel costs 15-20 euros per day per person.
Hostels are cheaper - an average of 10 euros.
A large company is more profitable to settle in a large apartment with an equipped kitchen and a living area.
Products:
Milk - 0.7 Euro
Bread - 0.90 Euro
Chicken, 1 kg - 5.70 euros
Fish (dorada) 1 kg - 7 euros
Tomatoes - 1.22 euros
The average budget of the trip, taking into account transport, accommodation and food, is about 100 euros per day.
Plan of tours, tours for 1-3-7 days
| Day | Morning | Lunch | Evening |
| 1 | Malaga. Alcazaba Cathedral, Cathedral | Picasso Museum, Episcopal Palace, Alonso Gardens | Sea port, lighthouse. We recommend to end the evening in the restaurant Gastroteca de Reding (Calle Ruiz Blaser, 2), where they prepare beautiful mushroom risotto |
| 2 | Nerja. Caves | Aguila Aqueduct, Balcony of Europe, | Relax on the beach. Dinner at the restaurant El Pulguilla (Calle Almte. Ferrándiz, 26) - here they can cook the freshest octopus in Galician |
| 3 | Almunecar San cristobal | Moving to Salobrena | Walk in the old city, Fortress Dinner at the local restaurant Meson Antonio (Calle Manila, 9), where according to other tourists some of the best steaks in the city |
| 4 | Almeria, Alcazaba Fortress | Afternoon Cabo da Gata Natural Park | After such a rich program, we recommend trying the best tapas in the city - at the Taperia La Pinta bar (Campoverde, 20) |
| 5 | Granada Alhambra, Cathedral, | Generalife Gardens, Mount Sacromonte | Science park |
| 6 | Cordoba. Mesquita, Jewish Quarter, Caleja de las Flores | Cordoba Alcazar, Calahorra Tower, Roman Bridge | Viana Palace Try Spanish delicacy - soup “Rabo de Toro” (“Tail of the bull”) in the restaurant El Abanico (Calle Velazquez Bosco 7) |
| 7 | Archaeological Museum. The Bull Museum. | Madina Az-Zahra. | Flamenco show One of the favorite dishes in Cordoba is ram stew. Order this dish at Gongora Restaurant (Calle Conde de Torres Cabrera 4) |
| 8 | Seville Visit Alcazar all day | In the evening, just be sure to go to the Bodeguita Romero bar (c / Harinas, 10) and try their special dish - pringa - pork sandwich in the Andalusian style. | |
| 9 | Seville Cathedral. Square of Spain. | Maestranza, Monastery of St. Mary de las Cuevas. | Walk around the old town. Bullfight. Salmorejo soup at El Caminante Andaluz restaurant (Calle Jose Diaz 8) - the best end to the day |
| 10 | Cadiz. Tavira Tower, Central Market. | Old Town, San Sebastian Castle. | Cathedral and relaxation on the ocean. According to reviews, the restaurant Las Nieves (Plaza Mendizabal) cooks the best squid and eggplant in honey. |
| 11 | Tarifa The isthmus between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. | Moving to Gibraltar. Walk along the main street. | Visiting the Rock. Feel the atmosphere of real seaman at The Clipper Restaurant (Irish TowN, 78b Irish Town). Delicate Beef Stroganoff is served here. |
| 12 | Marbella Relax on the beach. | Walk near Puerto Banus. | Marbella nightlife. Before visiting the clubs, it is advisable to eat - meat rolls are especially good in an institution called Bodega San Bernabe (Travesia Carlos Mackintosh No. 3 Local 17 | junto a la Alameda) |
| 13 | Arrival in Malaga. Roman theater. | Tivoli World - an amusement park. | We recommend completing the trip at an authentic Spanish establishment - Antigua Casa de Guardia (Alameda Principal 18), which serves wonderful mussels. |
What and where is
Photo: Gazpacho In Andalusia, they love and know how to cook amazingly delicious dishes that you must definitely try while traveling in this region:
- Gazpacho or salmorejo - cold tomato soup (some of the additional ingredients differ).
- Any tuna dishes in the Cadiz area.
- Cordoba flamenkin - a dish of pork fillet, which is fried in breadcrumbs and an egg.
- Alboronia - vegetable roast of eggplant, tomato, pumpkin and pepper.
- White fish soup.
- Almond soup.
- Charcoal Sardines.
- Turkey with apples.
Meat dishes are more common in remote cities from the sea, but in coastal restaurants the choice of fish dishes is simply huge.
Best excursions by reviews
We have collected five of the most interesting and original excursions in Andalusia:
- In the Wild West of Andalusia - a trip out of town, where ancient stone dolmens are preserved, as well as medieval castles, hot springs and fantastic landscapes reminiscent of America.
- The three stories of Granada - an amazing time travel that combines three urban legends: Jewish, Arab and royal. Only an experienced look can see and read them on the facades of old houses, in curved streets and lush gardens.
- Alvear wine cellars nearby in Cordoba - an opportunity to learn the secrets of winemaking, which results in such a delicious wine. By the way, at the end of the tour, all participants will have the opportunity to taste various varieties.
- Horse riding in the vicinity of Cadiz - feel like a real conquistador on horseback while walking along the endless Atlantic Ocean.
- Gibraltar - Climb the famous Rock in Gibraltar, see the hidden caves that were used during the Second World War, see the real wild monkeys and see Africa.
Watch examples of interesting excursions in the video “In search of adventure with Mikhail Kozhukhov - Andalusia.
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