A guide to the perfect day trips in Andalusia, experience everything this beautiful region has to offer
Andalusia´s location in the south of Spain means you will never be far from new adventures, whether your interests lie in culture, tradition, gastronomy or art. Choose from a wide selection of authentic, charming day trips in Andalusia going from the white villages to lively cities with creative, cool spots to hang out and find your perfect day trip, promoting slow travel in Andalusia. There’s something for everyone!
Seville
Known for its historic centre and its cathedral, the beautiful Plaza de España and popular for flamenco dancing, Seville will steal your heart and is the perfect place to go on one of your day trips in Andalusia. First, you should pay a visit to Maria Luisa Park since it gives you the opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and venture into the lush greenery surrounded by decorative and artistic fountains, pools and benches.
The Plaza de España stands here in all its glory and is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in the city. The cathedral is just as interesting, along with its neighbouring bell tower, La Giralda – especially since it is one of the largest cathedrals in the world! What’s more, Seville is one of the most popular places to spend Semana Santa (Holy Week), although we recommend Ronda for a more relaxing experience! Other points of interest include the historic centre, the popular neighbourhood of Santa Cruz and the Palacio del Alcázar.
Marbella
Marbella is an ideal choice for one of your day trips in Andalusia from Ronda, Spain; marvel at the luxury of expensive yachts and cars in Puerto Banús, spend the day relaxing at the beach, get active by taking a bike ride along the Paseo Marítimo or visit the wonderful old town where you can shop until your drop, provided you don’t mind breaking the bank at the designer shops! Marbella is also known for its mountain, La Concha with adventure seekers hiking to the top and admiring the impressive views.
Thrill seekers can also choose between a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, stand-up paddle boarding and windsurfing. Many people go to Marbella and Puerto Banús for the nightlife; the most expensive and luxurious bars and nightclubs are located on the Golden Mile. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, spend the evening in Marbella.
Cádiz
If sun, sea and sand are what you’re looking for, this is the perfect place to visit during the summer for one of your day trips in Andalusia from Ronda. You can sunbathe on La Caleta, one of the most popular and photographed beaches in Cádiz. Located between the San Sebastián and Santa Catalina castles, it’s near everything you need after you have relaxed in the sun and enjoyed a swim. Alternatively, head to nearby Victoria Beach or if that doesn’t take your fancy, there are many other beaches in the province of Cádiz, like Bolonia beach in Tarifa, Caños de Meca beach, Santa María del Mar beach, Cabo de la Plata beach…the possibilities are endless!
Want to see what the city has to offer? If you like parks, Genovés park is the ideal place to take a stroll or sit down and take in your surroundings. Afterwards, you can admire the Santa Cruz Cathedral, discover the La Viña neighbourhood or pay a visit to El Pópulo, the oldest area of the city. If you prefer to take in the city from above, don’t miss the Torre de Tavira which provides a bird’s eye view.
Gibraltar
If you are British and maybe miss the UK occasionally, head to Gibraltar for one of your day trips in Andalusia from Ronda and experience the mix of British and Spanish cultures (with better weather!). Some highlights of this British territory are the Rock of Gibraltar – easily accessed via the cable car – and Ocean Village. You can also choose between six beaches. One of the most fascinating things about this place is that its airport runway intersects with Winston Churchill Avenue, which means that barriers open and close when flights take off and land. Other points of interest include a cathedral, mosque and San Miguel cave, one of the limestone caves inside the Rock of Gibraltar.
White Villages of Andalusia
There is more than a dozen of these impressive White villages and secret places to explore and enjoy during your day trips in Andalusia, making them some of the best choices for a trip in the south of Spain:
Júzcar
Village of the smurfs – a great place to visit with kids or a good way to connect to your own inner child. Painting the village blue was initially temporary so that The Smurfs film could be promoted. However, following this the village received so many tourists, that the locals voted to keep the change permanent.
Zahara de la Sierra
One of the most aesthetically pleasing, this white village sits next to an artificial lake. It’s the ideal place for aspiring photographers and people who are looking for beautiful landscapes. If you don’t fancy going any further than Malaga in search of sea and sand, this village has an artificial beach.
Setenil de las Bodegas
This village is unique, since a lot of the houses can be found at different heights and many are built into the rocks. Take the time to explore the charming, winding streets.
Grazalema
An ideal place if you like hiking, since it is close to the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park.
Gaucín
Do you love incredible views? Gaucín is known for its views of Gibraltar and Morocco, as well as its spectacular mountain landscape.
The South of Spain has many more of these incredible locations to discover. We hope this has helped you to plan your perfect holiday exploring this marvellous landscape, helping to promote sustainable tourism in Spain. You will no doubt make surprising discoveries during your day trips in Andalusia. And if you find any other rare gems to visit, let us know, in the comments below!
- Written by @SlowRonda team
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