Málaga
Málaga Spain is a key beach town and provence situated near the mountains offering warm breezes, blue waters and cool attractions.
Malaga was founded by Phoenicians before the roman era. It has become the second largest port in Spain and a nice vacation town due to its 324 days of sunshine a year.
This city is the capital of the Malaga provence. There are about 1.5 million inhabitants in the Malaga province and a quarter of those people live in Malaga proper. Malaga Spain is backed by mountains keeping the cooling northern breezes out and the Mediterranean keeps its temperature moderate year round. This micro climate has made Malaga a major beach destination for Spaniards, and all its northern neighbors. Its main attractions are conveniently located in the center of the city surround by the cathedral.
Because it is situated along the coast, most people fly into Malaga Spain and go to beach towns around Malaga. They have a large airport and good transportation options. Good seafood and the beaches is the biggest draw.
Malaga is sophisticated but has an andalucian feel. It has lots to offer including musuems and tapas bars. They do not have many tourists, so if you want an un-touristy town this might be your pick.
The best attractions, in my opinion, are Pablo Picasso's house and the roman ruins. If you only can pick two things to do in town, pick those.
Alcazaba Málaga | Picasso museum Málaga | Cathedral Málaga |
This is a fortified palace that dates from the Muslim era. It's located in the foothills of Mount Gibralfaro. The Alcazaba and the Gibralfaro Castle are linked by a rocky corridor called The Corach. The Alcazaba is also next to the Roman Theatre, the city park and opposite the port, which gives it a unique and privileged enclave. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The Picasso Museum is housed in the Buenavista Palace, a Renaissance building from the 16th century and the most important example of noble architecture from the period. Tirelessly prolific, Picasso painted over 2,000 works. More than 200 works including paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, and engravings testify to the magnitude of his iconic career, from its inception until the last academic paintings of the 1970's. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The Cathedral of Malaga is called the Cathedral of the Incarnation (Catedral de la Encarnación) and is located where the Mosque-Aljama stood during the city's the eight centuries of Muslim rule. Inside there is a vast body of sculptural work, including 42 carvings by Pedro de Mena, Vargas, and Giuseppe Ortiz Micael Alfaro. There is also a superb organ, with more than 4,000 pipes, that is still used today. It also houses the Cathedral Museum. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. |
Marbella
Marbella is, without a doubt, one of the Costa del Sol's major tourist centres, thanks to the high quality of the facilities and services it provides. Puerto Banús, one of the main focal points for tourists in the town, houses an exclusive leisure area inside the excellent facilities of its marina. But Marbella is also a paradise for golf lovers. A dozen magnificent courses allow the golfer to play the sport before the unusual backdrop provided by the sea and the mountains. The historic part of town, sitting on a beautiful bay, shelters lovely corners of a typically Andalusian flavour, with whitewashed houses and orange trees adorning the streets and squares. An ideal setting for sampling any one of the tasty recipes of the local cuisine.
Marbella is deservedly one of the Costa del Sol's prime destinations. Its excellent climate, beaches, natural surroundings and its major sports complexes are just some of the countless attractions which this town on the Málaga coast offers. Clear proof of the high quality of its infrastructure is Puerto Banús, one of the most emblematic spots in Marbella. Surrounded by exclusive housing developments, this famous marina each year welcomes some of the biggest and most luxurious yachts in the world. Its facilities also offer a select leisure area made up of restaurants, business premises and shops selling the big international designer labels and luxury items.
From Cabopino to Guadalmina, Marbella offers the visitor 26 kilometres of beautiful coastline with a succession of sun-drenched beaches equipped with all kinds of services, which include modern hotels, residential complexes, shops and restaurants. The beaches of San Pedro de Alcántara, a major population centre less than ten kilometres from Marbella, are a fine example of the balance struck between nature and tourist development.
Sports lovers will be in paradise in Marbella. A dozen magnificent golf courses allow the sport to be played at the highest level year-round, in surroundings of striking natural beauty.
Those who prefer water sports will find the town has three marinas where they can take up the activity they prefer.
In addition, Marbella has several riding schools, tennis clubs and other facilities to suit the most varied tastes. All this, and not forgetting the enormous possibilities the Sierra Blanca hills offer for all kinds of outdoor pursuits.
Seville
Travel Through the Most Romantic and Magical City in Spain
Sevilla or Seville Spain (pronounced sey-vi-ya) spews charm.
This town is what you think of when visualising Spain. Bullfights, Flamenco, bitter oranges, all things you will find in Sevilla. Unfortunately, I think most people take Seville as a side trip from Madrid and truthfully this city deserves more than 2 days and one night.
Seville is such a great town because it is large enough to have a city feel but small enough not to feel overwhelmed. Sevilla has the second largest cathedral in the world, an alcazar instead of a palace, and of course a fantastic bullring.
As the gateway to the New World, Seville Spain boomed when Spain did in the 16th century. Amerigo Vespucci and Ferdinand Magellan sailed from its river harbor to discover gold, silver, cocoa and tobacco. Sevilla was Spain's largest and richest city in the 17th century but their golden age ended when the Spanish empire crumbled.
They hosted the 1929 World Fair to help promote tourism. Unfortunately, It crashed along with the stock market. In 1992, Seville held another World Fair. This time, it was successful and left them with a great infrastructure. An airport, the Ave train, new bridges, and a new train station. In 2007 main boulevards around the cathedral were made pedestrian, which makes it even nicer.
Today It's Spain's fourth largest city, with about 700,000 people. It's Andalucia's star city and most popular destination. It has a special ambience, charm, and history. You definitely feel like you are stepping back in time, yet has all the modern desires you would find in a newer city. If there was ever a city to stay a while in and relax, this would be it. It's special, magical, and becomes a favorite for many....and once you get here, you'll know why. No words needed.
Alcázar | Museo del baile Flamenco | Torre del Oro |
Located between the Jardines de Murillo and the Cathedral, the Alcazar or Royal Palace in Seville is still a vacation spot for the King and Queen. Construction first began under Abd Al Ramán III in the early 10th century it is one of the best examples of mudéjar architecture in all of Spain. Later additions included those by Pedro the Cruel with the aid of Moorish craftsmen. The grounds and gardens around the building are an important part of the visit. If you're not able to make it to Granada to see the Alhambra make sure you stop here. Address: Patio de Banderas s/n Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The Museum of Flamenco Dance, the only one of its kind in the world, takes you on a journey to the heart of the Andalusian people, their identity and their spirit. This interactive museum is where the deepest roots of flamenco and the latest multimedia technology come together. The museum is an obligatory visit for anyone who wishes to gain an insight into the culture of Andalusia. Address: Calle Manuel Rojas Marcos, 3 Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | Located on the Guadalquivir River and dating back to the 13th century (Almohade period), the top of the Torre del Oro was once covered in gold tiles which reflected in the sunlight, making the tower a visible fixture in Seville. During the Arab occupation it served as main point of defense and control of the river. The tower was connected to the city walls, and a large linked chain ran from the building to the other side of the river to control maritime traffic into the city. The Torre del Oro now houses the local maritime museum. Address: Calle Temprado, 3 (Arenal) Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. |
Granada
Granada was first settled in the prehistoric period by native tribes and was known as Ilbyr.
When colonising southern Spain, the Romans built their own city here calling it Illibris. Later, the Arabs invaded the peninsula during the 8th century and gave the city its current name Granada. It was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492 at the hands of Queen Isabel of Castile and her husband Ferdinand of Aragon.
Alhambra GranadaThe long term capital of Moorish Andalucía, Granada is one of the pearls of Spain and is one of the most visited by tourists from all over the world. Not least for its many buildings and monuments built during this time period, with the world-famous “Alhambra” at the top of the list.
Generalife gardens Alhambra Granada was first put on the tourist map by Washington Irving´s romantic Tales of the Alhambra (1832), and the magical hilltop palace is now Spain´s most-visited monument attracting over two million visitors a year. It is hard to resist this nostalgic testament to the twilight years of the Moors reign in Spain, with its seductive patios, exquisite stucco work and wistful Generalife gardens. But there is a lot more to this busy University City than the Alhambra, so don´t miss out on exploring it´s atmospheric streets and enjoying its lively nightlife and first-rate tapas.
Albaicin GranadaShaped by the hills, the historic quarters Albaicín and Alhambra founded on its slopes are brimming with steep, narrow streets, beautiful nooks and crannies and breathtaking landscapes and views. The new part of the city is situated on the plain, crisscrossed by the Gran Vía de Colón and Calle de los Reyes Católicos and where you can find the Cathedral surrounded by a bustling network of narrow streets.
Sacromonte Caves Granada SpainWalk through picturesque gardens, charming narrow streets, relax in one of those typical bars to have some of that famous “Trevélez” ham and local wine, and breathe in the centuries of history that surround you in every corner of this beautiful city. Enjoy listening to gypsies singing “Flamenco” and be sure to visit their famous “Cuevas” in Sacromonte where many still live and are renowned as magnificent artisans. If you visit during the right time of the year, you´ll be able to enjoy Granada´s popular and attractive festivals, based on both Moorish and Christian tradition.
Granada city is located at the foot of the “Sierra Nevada”, Spain´s highest mountain range and Europe´s most southern ski resort. Mulhacén its highest peak reaches an altitude of 3478 metres. The Mediterranean Sea is not far away, making it possible to ski and go to the beach in one day. With both these features at its finger tips, Granada is a great place to visit in any season.
Alhambra | Capilla Real | Cathedral Granada |
The Alhambra was a palace, a citadel, fortress, and the home of the Nasrid sultans, high government officials, servants of the court and elite soldiers (from the 13th to the 14th century). Today, the monument is divided into four main areas: the Palaces, the military zone or Alcazaba, the city or Medina and the agricultural estate of the Generalife. All of these areas are surrounded by woods, gardens and orchards. Other notable buildings belonging to a different time period are also included, such as the Renaissance style Palace of Charles V, which houses the Alhambra Museum (most of the items are from the site of the monument) and the Fine Art Museum. Though the origins of both important monuments of Granada, the Alhambra and Generalife, are not clear, there are certain remains from the 9th century, the Alhambra’s most brilliant creations date from the Nasrid Empire and the reign of Carlos V, between the 13th and 16th centuries. In its palaces, from the window of the mirador de Daraxa to the mottled stone columns of the Carlos V palace, everything in this complex is designed, planned and executed with only the thought of perfection in mind. This perfection may approach that of the Koran or Sunna or find itself closer to the Neo-Platonism of the Renaissance. Address: Calle Real s/n. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The royal chapel is situated on the northern front of the Cathedral and was built in the same period. Designs for the Royal Chapel began in 1504 and it was built between 1505 and 1521 by Enrique Egas. It was commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs for their burial site. As both Queen Isabel and King Fernando died before the Royal Chapel was finished, they were first buried in the Friary of San Francisco in the Alhambra. They were then later moved to the Chapel once it had been completed, and buried alongside King Felipe and Queen Juana (known more commonly as Juana la Loca - Juana the Mad). Although their original idea was for all future Spanish Kings and Queens to be buried here, this did not happen as the monastery in El Escorial was used instead. The tombs were carved out of marble by the Tuscan sculptor Domenico Fancelli Address: Oficios 3. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The construction of the cathedral of Granada was ordered by the catholic kings in 1503 shortly after conquering the town from the Moors. The cathedral was designed by the architect San Juan Evangelista in creating a design using Gothic and Renaissance styles. The catholic kings were later in 1521 buried in the royal chapel in the Cathedral. This cathedral with its five naves is considered to be the most important Renaissance building of Spain. Built in the transition period of Gothic to Renaissance, it shows as well elements of this earlier style. Especially remarkable are the main chapel, Capilla Mayor, the lateral chapels and of course the façade with its sculptures. Capilla Real The Royal Chapel was built between 1505 and 1521 under Spain's catholic kings. The northern front was later on integrated in the cathedral. Address: Gran Vía 5. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. |
Cordoba
Situated along the Guadalquivir, Cordoba Spain's attractions are the Mezquita mosque and beautiful patios
Cordoba is a cute little town known mostly for its mosque, turned catholic cathedral, the Mezquita. Aside from Granadas Alhambra, The Mezquita is Europe's next best Islamic sight, a grand and amazingly well preserved mosque dating back to A.D. 784. And it’s a great representation of southern Spain's past of Islam and Catholicism.
Cordoba Spain has a grand Moorish and Roman past, and served as a regional capital for both empires. The Mezquita takes you back to the time where it was a thriving and sophisticated culture. It was a place where enlightened thought, artistic expression, philosophy, and science flourished when the rest of Europe was in the Dark Ages.
Mezquita Mosque, Cordob
The Juderia, the quarter with Jewish neighborhoods and flowery patios are another special thing about Cordoba. Both the Mezquita and Juderia are located near each other making it convenient to visit both. The rest of Cordobas sights are in a close distance to the Mezquita, including the Alcazar, a former royal castle.
Cordoba has a population around 300,000 and is small enough to see a shepard herding sheep through town but large enough to find all the conveniences of a modern city.
Mezquita | Al Madinah al Zahra | Alcazar de los reyes cristianos |
The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is the most important monument of all the Western Islamic world, and one of the most amazing in the world. The evolution of the “Omeya” style in Spain is resumed in the history of the Mosque of Cordoba, as well as other styles such as the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque of the Christian architecture. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | It was built at the wish of the caliph Abd-al Rahman III using the money his favourite, Al-Zahra, left him. Interior of the Mosque of Cordoba It was designed to be the capital of a new province of the Caliphate of Cordoba, but finally the sackings of the city/palace led it to be remembered as Córdoba la Vieja (Old Cordoba). The caliph Abd-al-Rahman III was a great supporter of culture and a skilful politician who made his dominions the most prosperous in the West during his times, only comparable with Baghdad and Byzantium. The floor plan of Medina Al-Zahara is almost rectangular. It was built on stepped terraces which took advantage of the slope of the mountain. Each terrace was separated from the others using walls that divided the city into three parts. In the high part were the palaces, in the middle sector the dominant landscape was fruit and vegetable plots and gardens and in the lower part was the main mosque and the houses. There are still remains of foundations, paintings and columns in Composite and Corinthian style. Walking through 2 recently restored rooms is a visit not to be missed. It was declared a National Monument in 1923. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | Close to the Mezquita stands the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and its beautiful gardens. This 'Castle of the Christian Monarchs' is largely inspired by Moorish architecture, although most of it was built under Christian rule. The site had seen construction and destruction of many fortresses and the Moors had extended the Alcázar to a large composition of water gardens, irrigated by the use of watermills on the nearby Guadalquivir River. After the Reconquista, Alfonso XI of Castile began building the present day structure. His Alcázar retained some parts of the Moorish ruins and used the Mudéjar style. The Catholic Monarchs, Isabel of Castile and Fernando of Aragon, used the Alcázar as a permanent tribunal of the Spanish Inquisition and as a headquarters for their military campaign against Granada. In the Alcázar, make sure that you climb up the two towers, the Torre de Homenaje and the Torre de los Leones, from which you get good panoramic view over the whole city, including the nearby Mezquita and the Puente Romano. Cordoba's river, river Guadalquivir was traditionally crossed via an old roman bridge, the Puente Romano, which still stands today. On the south side of the bridge stands the Torre de la Calahorra, a 14th century tower that hosts a museum that celebrates the religious tolerance of 10th century Islamic Cordoba. Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. |
Gibraltar
Gibraltar - Definitely Worth a Visit
Gibraltar isn’t part of Spain, but its location on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula means it’s a quick, easy trip for travelers who are spending time in beautiful Andalusia. Currently a British Overseas Territory under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom, it guards the only portal between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea – the Strait of Gibraltar.
Because of its strategic location, the region has been coveted by various foreign powers for thousands of years. Gibraltar has a fascinating history, and with influences from Europe, the Near East and North Africa, its culture is unlike any other in Iberia.
Undoubtedly, the first thing that pops to mind when most people think about Gibraltar is the rugged, rocky cliff we call the Rock of Gibraltar. It’s an imposing sight and something that every traveler who’s in the area should check out, but that’s easy because it’s so hard to miss! It’s also become a symbol of enduring strength, solidity and dependability (a major American insurance company uses the Rock of Gibraltar as its logo and even refers to itself as “The Rock”).
Much of the upper portion of the Rock is set aside as a nature preserve (called the Upper Rock Nature Reserve) that’s inhabited by over two hundred Barbary macaques (Europe’s only wild monkeys and an endangered species). The macaques and an extensive network of tunnels in the cliff (excavated during 18th-century sieges and expanded during World War II) have evolved into popular tourist attractions. A cable car makes things easy by running from the base of the Rock to the top, with an intermediate stop along the way.
Its iconic landmark isn’t the only game in town – it’s just the most famous. There’s a lot more to see and do. First, though, let’s talk a bit about the history of the place. It’s far from boring, and it will help you understand why Gibraltar is the way it is today.
Rock of Gibraltar | Ferry Gibraltar - Morocco | |
Naturally, the main sight is the awesome rock; a vast limestone ridge that rises to 426m, with sheer cliffs on its northern and eastern sides. For the ancient Greeks and Romans this was one of the two pillars of Hercules, split from the other, Jebel Musa in Morocco, in the course of Hercules' arduous twelve labours. The two great rocks marked the edge of the ancient world. Most of the upper Rock, starting just above the town, is a nature reserve with spectacular views and several interesting spots to visit. A great way to get up here is by the cable car (catch it from Red Sands Rd, it goes every few minutes 09:30-17:00 | Since 2000, FRS Iberia and FRS Maroc have been operating year round fast ferry sailings across the Strait of Gibraltar between Spain and Morocco. The Main FRS route between Tarifa (Spain) and the buzzing port of Tangier (Morocco) is the shortest seaway between the two continents and takes a mere 35 minutes. In addition, FRS also connects Tangier with the ports of Algeciras and Gibraltar. With its modern high-speed ferries. FRS has become the market leader for passenger and car crossings to and from Tangier. FRS ferry crossings can be supplemented with a variety of organised land excursions in and around Tangier. |
Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera, well known for its wines, its horses and its flamenco, preserves a historic centre that has been declared a historic artistic site. One of the noblest towns in Cádiz brings together the splendour of aristocratic palaces with the popular flavour of typically Andalusian houses. Features that are shown off every year at the celebration of the Horse Fair, declared of International Tourist Interest. This enormous offer of culture is enriched with the aromas of a regional cuisine in which the Denomination of Origin of Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda is outstanding. A visit to one of the city's wine cellars will help travellers to get a deeper understanding of its winemaking tradition.
Mezquita del Alcázar | Bodega Gonzalez Byass ‘Tio Pepe’ | The Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art |
Jerez' muscular yet refined 11th- or 12th-century fortress is one of the best-preserved Almohad-era (1140–1212) relics left in Andalucía. It's noted for its octagonal tower, a classic example of Almohad defensive forts. You enter the Alcázar via the Patio de Armas . On the left is the beautiful mezquita (mosque), which was converted to a chapel by Alfonso X in 1264. Beyond the Patio de Armas, the lovely gardens re-create the ambience of Islamic times with their geometrical plant beds and tinkling fountains, while the domed Baños Árabes (Arab Baths) with their shafts of light are another highlight. Back on the Patio de Armas, the 18th-century Palacio Villavicencio , built over the ruins of the old Islamic palace, contains works of art, but is best known for its bird’s-eye view of Jerez from the summit; the palace’s tower also contains a camera obscura, which provides a picturesque live panorama of Jerez. Address : Alameda Vieja Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | Home of the Tio Pepe brand and one of the biggest sherry houses, handily located just west of the Alcázar. Six or seven tours each are given daily in English and Spanish, and a few in German and French. Reservations can be made online. Address : Calle Manuel María González 12 Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. | The famed Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art trains horses and riders in equestrian skills, and you can watch them going through their paces in training sessions and visit the Horse Carriage Museum , which includes an 18th-century Binder Hunting Break. The highlight for most is the official exhibición (show) where the handsome white horses show off their tricks to classical music. You can book tickets online for this – advisable for the official shows, which can sell out. Address : Avenida Duque de Abrantes Admission fees and opening times depend on time of the year and other variables. |
Torremolinos
A place of settlement of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean, Torremolinos is today one of the Costa del Sol's prime destinations. The excellent coastline, combined with the pleasant climate, are just some of the attractions this Andalusian town offers.
History has bequeathed Torremolinos corners of profound local flavour, such as the seafarers' district of La Carihuela, as well as a great many vestiges of it rich past, among them the town's Keep. Over the year, the town enjoys every one of its traditional fairs, festivals and pilgrimages to the full. The local cuisine cannot be ignored, with “pescaíto” frito (fried fish) as the star attraction.
Torremolinos, a town only 12 kilómetres from Málaga capital, has a long and extensive history, as the many Phoenician, Greek, Roman and Arab remains found in the area testify.
The first written reports of Torremolinos date from 1489, a time when the Catholic Monarchs decided to boost repopulation in the place known then as Torres de Pimentel. Years later, in 1502, the town was placed under the jurisdiction of Málaga capital. This coastal enclave built some castles and watchtowers to protect itself from attack. The Castle of Santa Clara, from the 18th century, was one of the most important in the town.
The major change undergone by Torremolinos occurred in the second half of the 20th century, when this fishing town discovered the enormous tourist potential of its extensive coastline and mild climate. Torremolinos has since become one of the chief centres for attracting tourists on the Costa del Sol, thanks to major tourist facilities and the quality of its infrastructure.
Bajondillo, Carihuela, Los Álamos or Playamar are a just a few of the magnificent beaches to grace this coastline, where you will find major hotel complexes, housing developments, and even a Conference Centre which hosts important international meetings.
Torremolinos offers countless possiblilties: from swimming and soaking up the sun at almost any time of year, to playing all kinds of sports, including golf, not forgetting the many restaurants in which you can sample the local “pescaíto” frito (fried fish).
Sights
In spite of the considerable urban development witnessed in recent decades, Torremolinos has managed to preserve the seafaring atmosphere on the streets of its most traditional neighbourhoods: El Calvario, El Bajondillo and La Carihuela.
In the historic part of town stands the parish church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, while it is also possible to find fine examples of noble architecture, outstanding among which is the Casa de los Navaja, built in the 19th century. But the greatest symbol of its heritage is the Torre de Pimentel or Torre de los Molinos, a defensive construction and which gives the city its name.
Meanwhile, in the area known as Cortijo del Tajo major archaeological sites have been uncovered corresponding to the Neolithic age, as well as the pre-Roman and Roman periods.
Gastronomy, festivals and surrounding area
Gastronomy in Torremolinos is chiefly based on produce from the sea. Its most emblematic dish is “pescaíto” frito (fried fish), although there are many other recipes for fish prepared in the most varied ways: salted, on the grill, etc. The Designation of Origin Málaga standard is known for the excellent quality of its wines, especially sweet wines.
Prominent on Torremolinos' calendar of events are the Fair and the festival in honour of its patron saint, San Miguel, which are held between the end of September and the beginning of October. A week earlier, the popular Pilgrimage of San Miguel takes place.
La Carihuela is the setting each 16 July for the Fair of el Carmen, whose main event is the procession of the Virgin.
Next door to Torremolinos, it is possible to visit other towns in the Málaga region with a deep-rooted tourist tradition, such as Benalmádena and Fuengirola. Inland are mountain villages such as Mijas, which boasts typically Andalusian houses, or Alhaurín el Grande, with its church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación and the palace of Montellano. And only 12 kilometres from Torremolinos is Málaga capital, which combines important heritage, headed by the citadel and the Castle of Gibralfaro, with an enormous range of leisure opportunities.
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