Best Day Trips from Nerja
Nerja makes a lovely base, but there is plenty to see nearby. Within two hours, you can reach white villages, Moorish castles and a world-famous palace. Nerja has no train station, so buses and cars work best. A car gives you the most freedom, especially for the smaller villages. You can hire a car and set your own pace. Hire a car with Discovercars. Not sure it is worth it? Read our guide to renting a car in Spain. If you prefer buses, check our tips on how to use Spanish buses. Here are our favourite day trips.
Frigiliana: The Prettiest White Village
Frigiliana is only 15 minutes from Nerja, so it makes an easy first trip. Head straight to the Frigiliana old town, known as the Barribarto. Its steep lanes are lined with whitewashed houses and bright flowerpots. Along the way, you will spot ceramic panels that tell the village’s history. Next, visit the Ingenio Nuestra Señora del Carmen. This old factory still makes sugar-cane honey, a local speciality. Try some drizzled over a dessert. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
Almuñécar and Salobreña: Castles by the Sea
Drive east along the coast for about 30 minutes, and you will reach two lovely towns. First, stop in Almuñécar. Climb up to the Castillo de San Miguel for wide sea views. Then, stroll through the Parque Botánico El Majuelo. Palms and tropical plants fill this garden, and it is wonderfully cool on hot days.
After that, continue to Salobreña. This white town sits on a rocky hill, topped by a Moorish castle. Wander the narrow streets, and then relax on the beach below. Together, the two towns make a perfect easy day. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
Málaga: Art, Castles and Tapas
Málaga lies about an hour west of Nerja. It is the best choice if you want a lively city day. Start at the Museo Picasso Málaga. The artist was born in the city, and the museum shows his work in a beautiful old palace. Next, climb up to the Alcazaba. This hilltop fortress dates back to the 11th century. From there, a path leads up to Gibralfaro Castle for even bigger views.
For lunch, visit the Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Its stalls sell fresh seafood, ham and fruit, and you can graze your way around. Afterwards, visit the Catedral de Málaga, nicknamed “La Manquita”. Planning more time here? Read our guide to the best things to do in Málaga. Our Málaga page also has more ideas. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
Antequera: Ancient Dolmens and Mountain Scenery
Antequera is about 90 minutes inland from Nerja. It is a great pick if you love history. First, visit the Dólmenes de Antequera. These huge stone tombs are more than 5,000 years old. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Menga Dolmen is the star. Inside, giant slabs form a vast chamber.
Then, head into Antequera itself. Climb to the Alcazaba for views across the rooftops. After lunch, take a short drive to El Torcal, a natural park full of strange limestone rocks. A car is the easiest way to see it all. Hire a car with Discovercars. Can’t decide between here and Ronda? Our post on Ronda vs Antequera can help. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
Granada: The Alhambra
Granada is about 90 minutes from Nerja. It is a long day, but the Alhambra is worth it. This hilltop palace complex is one of Spain’s most famous sights. Don’t miss the Nasrid Palaces, with their carved ceilings and peaceful courtyards. Also save time for the Generalife gardens. Tickets sell out weeks ahead, so buy your Alhambra tickets in advance.
Afterwards, wander the AlbaicÃn, Granada’s old Moorish quarter. The Mirador de San Nicolás gives you a classic view of the Alhambra at sunset. If you want to stay longer, see our 3 day itinerary for Granada. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
The Alpujarras: Mountain Villages
The Alpujarras lie in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The drive takes about two hours, so start early. First, stop at Lanjarón, a spa town famous for its spring water. Then, continue up to Pampaneira. This tiny village is full of craft shops selling rugs and local ham.
Next, drive on to Bubión and Capileira. Both sit higher up in the Poqueira Gorge, with flat-roofed houses and mountain views. The roads are narrow, so take your time. Once again, a hire car is the best way to get around. Hire a car with Discovercars. If you are already in Spain, get directions.
Planning Your Day Trips
Each of these trips works well in a single day. However, start early and avoid the midday heat in summer. For more tips, read our guide to planning Spanish village day trips. If you love white villages, our white villages itinerary is also worth a look. Finally, come back to Nerja for dinner. Our guide to where to eat in Nerja will help you end the day well.