Andalusia
Andalusia is Spains most southerly mainland region. Many of the things that people associate with Spain come from Andalusia. For example, Flamenco. So when people imagine Spain, they are often imagining an Andalusian scene.
The region has the largest regional population in Spain with 8.4 million people.
In area, it is Spains second largest. It borders Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha to its North and Murcia to the East. The Mediterranean Sea is in the South. It has the Atlantic Ocean to the South West and Portugal to the West. The capital, Seville has a population of about 670,000. Other major cities include Malaga with a population of 570,000 and Granada with 230,000 people.
The Andalusian coastline includes the Costa del Sol, a very popular holiday destination. It is also an extremely popular retirement destination for many people seeking a warmer climate. The region has some of the highest average temperatures in Spain. In summer temperatures regularly hit the high 30’s and can remain warm during the night.
Inland, Andalusia has rugged peaks with spectacular hilltop towns to visit.
The region has a rich history heavily influenced by Moorish rule which lasted almost 800 years. Prior to this time, the area was held at various times by Carthaginians, Romans and Visigoths.
Andalusia has something for everyone. From relaxing on a beach and doing nothing, to visiting spectacular mountains and everything in between. It is a region you can definitely spend a lot of time visiting with no two days being the same. Here is a small selection of the popular places to visit in Andalusia:
The Alhambra is a must-see attraction in Granada
Real Alcazar de Sevilla, is a beautiful palace in Seville
Alcazaba is an impressive fortress in Malaga
Mezquita Cathedral in Cordoba
Towns of and areas in the Region
Read information and tips on these Andalusian Cities and Towns:
Almeria – offers a mix of history, culture, and seaside charm
Benalmádena – combines beautiful beaches, family attractions, traditional Andalusian charm and modern holiday facilities
Costa de Almería – offers golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, charming whitewashed villages and protected natural parks
Costa del Sol – offers 300 plus days of sunshine annually, golden beaches, charming white villages, excellent food and world-class attractions
Estepona – is best known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere
Frigiliana – whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, colourful flowers, and stunning mountain views
Fuengirola – combines beautiful beaches, a lively atmosphere, rich history and excellent facilities
Garrucha – authentic Spanish atmosphere, a thriving fishing industry, excellent seafood, and attractive beaches
Huelva – a historic city best known for its links to Christopher Columbus
Jerez de la Frontera – famous for its sherry wine, flamenco culture, beautiful horses, and historic landmarks
Malaga – a busy and very popular city
Marbella – is known for its golden beaches, luxury resorts, charming old town and excellent year-round climate
Mijas – is known for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets and stunning views
Mojácar – this charming whitewashed town combines history, culture, stunning scenery and beautiful beaches
Motril – is a popular destination throughout the year
Neja – a lovely white-walled seaside town
Ronda – one of the most famous towns in southern Spain
Roquetas de Mar – combines beautiful beaches, modern facilities, rich history, and excellent weather
Setenil de las Bodegas – one of the most photographed destinations in southern Spain
Seville – a beautiful city with a rich history
Torremolinos – a lively seaside town combining long sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife and a rich cultural heritage
Vejer de la Frontera – maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, rich history, and vibrant food scene
Getting to Andalusia
There are plenty of direct flights to Seville and Malaga from the UK and most major European cities.
Malaga airport is very busy as it serves the Costa del Sol region so it is well known to many tourists to the area.
Flying time from London to Seville is about 2 hours 45 minutes.
Flying time from London to Malaga is just under 3 hours.
There are plenty of flights from other Spanish cities to Seville and Malaga.
The high-speed rail connects Madrid to Seville. The trip takes 2 hours 40 minutes.
Madrid to Cordoba takes just under 2 hours.
Madrid to Granada takes around 3 hours 20 minutes.
Driving time from Madrid to Seville is around 5 hours 20 minutes.
Madrid to Malaga can be 6 hours.
Madrid to Granada is about 4 hours 30 minutes.