Top things to do and see in Andalusia

Andalusia's capital Seville is lively, multifaceted and should definitely not be missed on your trip. Take enough time to explore the historic center of the city with its countless sights. Visit Seville's impressive cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason, and climb the majestic bell tower, la Giralda.

Explore the fantastic Setas de Sevilla and enjoy the unique panoramic view of the beautiful city from here. Stroll through the breathtaking gardens of the Alcazar. Marvel at the fabulous azulejos at Plaza España. Or taste your way through the countless, tasty tapas to discover Seville's gastronomic specialties.

Córdoba is also worth a visit! The historic mosque with its red and white arcades is particularly impressive here. If you get up early, you can also enjoy this architectural treasure in the city center (almost) without tourists.

Afterwards, the Alcazar, the residence of the Catholic kings, also beckons in Córdoba. Follow in the footsteps of times long past and enjoy the unique gardens before continuing to explore the historic old town of Córdoba. Stroll along the countless cafés to the Jewish quarter, where the famous Calleja de las Flores, the synagogue and the pretty chapel of San Bartolomé are also waiting to be discovered.

Be inspired by the world-famous Alhambra of Granada. Visit the fascinating fortress complex and be left speechless by the impressive Islamic architecture. But beware, this UNESCO World Heritage Site only welcomes a limited number of guests per day, so you should definitely book your tickets in good time.

Of course, Granada has much more to offer than just the Alhambra. Visit the traditional districts of Sacromonte and Albaicin, for example. Explore the beautiful cathedral with the adjoining Royal Museum. Or enjoy the fantastic view over the city from the two viewpoints of San Miguel Alto and San Nicolas.

Out of the city and into nature? Then you shouldn't miss out on the magical Sierra de Grazalema Nature Park. Here you can experience Andalusia's beautiful nature up close on fantastic hiking trails.

For example, follow the El Río Majaceite trail and enjoy the picturesque surroundings on a hike lasting just under four hours. The shady path can even be used on hot summer days and allows you to refresh yourself in the nearby river. Alternatively, the beautiful nature park is perfect for picnics and relaxing with the whole family!

Not far from Málaga, the impressive Caminito del Rey invites you to enjoy an unforgettable high-altitude hike. The breathtaking hiking trail stretches 328 feet (100 m) above the ground along the beautiful El Chorro gorge. This guarantees fantastic views and a unique backdrop.

However, whether you explore the Caminito del Rey on a guided hike or on your own is entirely up to you. Either way, you can look forward to a fabulous hiking adventure in one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia.

Follow the panoramic route of the White Villages and discover some of the most beautiful mountain villages and landscapes in Andalusia on your own. In Grazalema, enjoy the breathtaking view of the village and the hilly landscape of the same name. Visit the troglodytes, houses carved into an enormous rock, in Setenil de las Bodegas.

In Zahara de la Sierra, be amazed by the historic castle ruins and the fantastic view of the nearby lake. Or stop off in Arcos de la Frontera to admire the castle and the unique mountain churches. Whatever you decide, you will remember the Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos for a long time to come!

Another mountain village that you should not miss is Ronda. While both La Casa del Rey Mauro (the former residence of the Moorish king) and the Mondragon Palace attract visitors here, it is above all the impressive bridge that captivates visitors to Ronda.

While the fantastic structure now connects the old and new town, you have an unforgettable view of the bridge, village and surrounding mountain idyll, especially from the two vantage points not far from Plaza Maria Auxiliadora. Afterwards, you can enjoy your impressions in the cozy atmosphere of one of Ronda's cafés.

Andalusia has a lot to offer when it comes to culture. And Malaga in particular has a fantastic range of things to offer. For example, follow in the footsteps of Picasso and learn more about his life, works and special features in the artist's birthplace museum. Marvel at contemporary art at the Centre Pompidou Malaga. Discover some of the fantastic Spanish and Andalusian paintings in the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Or visit the Russian art museum in the old tobacco factory! Malaga is also worth a visit to the Alcazaba for an unforgettable view over the city. Or enjoy the city's fabulous beaches for a relaxing beach vacation!

A little off the beaten track, Cádiz is a fabulous destination for those who want to enjoy Spain's culture and attractions at their leisure. Make sure you take enough time to explore the picturesque city in detail. Visit the Roman theater. Climb the steps to the bell tower of the cathedral to enjoy the view of Cádiz.

Observe the relaxed ambience of the city from one of the many cafés in the Plaza de San Juan de Dios. Or spend an unforgettable day swimming at La Caleta beach. Incidentally, it is only a stone's throw away from the castles of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina.

Marbella delights its visitors with a spectacular combination of mountains and miles of dream beaches such as Cabopino or Artola Dunes. Located directly on the popular Costa del Sol, countless tourists and celebrities flock here, especially during the summer months.

So just mingle with the vacationers, explore the enchanting old town and the breathtaking marina of Puerto Banus. Be inspired by the many luxury villas, fancy nightclubs and the lively gastronomic scene and spend an unforgettable summer vacation in one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Andalusia.

Pure nature beckons in the Doñana National Park! Just an hour's drive from Seville or Cádiz, this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site invites you to go on fantastic hikes, bike and boat tours or horse riding excursions. However, a visit to the huge national park is not only worthwhile for active vacationers.

Visitors also have the opportunity to observe the diverse local wildlife at their leisure in this beautiful area. With a bit of luck, you can get a close-up look at the endangered Iberian lynx, for example. Or get up close to the many deer, flamingos and countless birds.

The impressive caves of Nerja guarantee an unforgettable adventure trip on your journey through Andalusia. While the fantastic caves were only discovered by chance by a group of students in 1959, visitors today have the opportunity to explore the almost four-kilometre-long cave system on their own.

Let the practical audio guide take you through the Cataclysm Hall or the Torca Hall. Learn more about the discovery and history of the caves. Or marvel at the breathtaking cave paintings during a visit with your children.

Outdoor enthusiasts looking for unique hiking trails or outdoor activities should explore the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. As the largest coastal and protected landscape area in the entire Mediterranean, you will find deserts as well as beautiful beaches such as Las Salinas or Los Muertos and hidden coves.

Don't hesitate to explore the spectacular surroundings on hikes, boat tours or deep-sea diving. Observe the countless flamingos and local bird species around the salt flats. Or explore the region's charming fishing villages such as San José or Las Negras on a relaxing stroll.

The Sierra Nevada is Spain’s highest mountain range and one of the true highlights of Andalusia. Here, you’ll find more than 20 peaks soaring above 9,800 feet (3,000 m), alongside picturesque mountain villages and a magical landscape that creates a breathtaking backdrop. Explore this natural treasure on extensive hikes, by mountain bike, or even on horseback.

For thrill-seekers, climbing excursions, paragliding, and a fast-paced descent down nearly 62 miles (100 km) of ski slopes are also possible in the Sierra Nevada. With so much to offer, the region is an excellent travel destination year-round.

North of Almeria, Europe's largest dry desert invites you on a fantastic excursion into Andalusia's unique nature. Visit the Sierra Alhamilla Nature Park, for example, in the almost 12,000-hectare protected area. Explore the bizarre lunar landscapes, the fantastic mountain ranges or the extensive sweet grass steppes on foot or by bike. Go trekking up to Cerro Alfaro.

Enjoy the unmistakable aromas of thyme, mugwort and oleander. Or visit one of the villages that have served as the backdrop for various western and adventure films.

You can expect typical English flair in Gibraltar! The coastal town in Andalusia does not belong to Spain, but to the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, the Upper Rock is well worth a visit. Whether by car, cable car or on foot - make your way to the summit and enjoy the fabulous view of the city and the sea.

Visit the enormous Siege Tunnel and St. Michael's Cave, which was used as a hospital during the Second World War. Visit the ruins of the Castillo de los Moros and observe the countless monkeys that call the Upper Rock their home. Afterwards, you can refresh yourself in one of the local pubs in the old town.