Andalucia


Andalucia is the southern autonomous region of Spain comprising eight provinces: Malaga, Cadíz, Cordoba, Huelva, Jaén, Granada, Seville and Almería. The region of Andalusia has many reminders of the period of Moorish rule. Andalusia is one of the most popular regions for holidays in Spain. The region of southern Spain has beautiful cities for a city break, lovely beaches with a warm climate and the most beautiful spots in the white villages. Take a tour of Andalusia's many attractions and highlights in southern Spain.






 

Alhambra

 

The medieval fortress and Moorish palace Alhambra is Andalusia's most famous attraction. The Nashriden palace dates from the period of Moorish rule and is strategically located on a hill near Granada. The many Moorish decorations and details make the palace complex so special and the green gardens around the Generalife summer palace are a great place to stroll. Tip: Keep in mind that the Alhambra is so popular that it often sells out weeks in advance, so be sure to arrange tickets in advance.

After visiting the Alhambra, be sure to take the time to visit the city of Granada itself. Be sure to stroll through the Arabic quarter El Albaicin, which is a maze of little streets and squares. Higher up is the Sacromonte district, the old gypsy quarter known for its cave dwellings and flamenco. Granada is without doubt one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia.




Grotten van Nerja

Nerja is located in the eastern part of the Costa del Sol. Originally a charming fishing village, today it is a lively destination for beach holidays. Nerja's most famous attraction are the 'Nerja Caves'; thousands of years ago the caves were home to cavemen. The huge caves include beautiful stalactites. Furthermore, you can enjoy stunning views over the sheltered beaches from the 'Balcony of Europe'. These beaches are also worth a visit, which unlike the rest of the Costa del Sol are surrounded by beautiful cliffs. More info on Nerja and its caves.




Sierra Nevada & Las Alupjarras

Sierra Nevada, located near Granada, means 'snow-capped mountain range' in Spanish. After the Alps, it is Europe's highest mountain range, with a total of 16 peaks above 3,000 metres (the highest mountain is Mulhacén of 3,482 m). The Sierra Nevada is popular for skiing in winter, an ideal hiking area in the National Park in summer. In the southern part is the region of 'Las Alpujarras' with its characteristic white villages; these villages contain typical whitewashed Moorish houses with flat roofs.



Mezquita in Córdoba

 

The highlight in Cordoba is the immense Mezquita; originally a Moorish mosque, it was later converted into a cathedral. The red-striped arches give the mosque-cathedral its distinctive look. After visiting the Mezquita, also take the time for a city walk through Cordoba's old town; stroll through the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter and take a look at the Roman bridge. Should you have time to spare, you can also visit Cordoba's Alcazar Palace, but it is not as impressive as Seville's Alcazar.



 


 


Malaga

The beautiful city of Malaga on the Costa del Sol is a multifaceted city. Hip Malaga is popular with tourists for shopping in the car-free centre, relaxing at the port or on the beach, enjoying culinary delights or visiting historical highlights such as the Moorish Alcazaba Palace and Gibralfaro fortress on Malaga hill. Málaga has all the components for a successful city break.