Spain is the perfect destination for planning road trips, boasting everything from beautiful beaches to diverse mountain landscapes, cathedrals to breathtaking museums, each region is incredibly varied from one another. In this post, we have listed the five best places to visit in the south of Spain. All these locations are enough to give you the taste of Spain as it includes famous beaches, popular filming locations, National Parks, cathedrals, museums, and much more.
Keep reading to discover why these five destinations are the ideal places to visit in southern Spain on a road trip. We have listed the best places to visit, including places to eat and the best time to visit. One can explore all these places by train and buses, but the best way to explore the south of Spain is by renting a car as it gives you the freedom to see the countryside at leisure without depending on the public transport system.
Best Places to Visit in South of Spain
01 Seville
You can’t travel to southern Spain and not visit Seville. Royal Seville is the capital of Andalusia and a must-see place in southern Spain. It is one of the most famous cities in Spain and the best Spanish cities overall. The city has one of the most beautiful towns and also considered among the romantic cities in the World. One can see Seville in all its glory during two events: Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (Seville Fair). The city represents a sublime mix of Andalusian, Islamic, Gypsy, and Jewish cultures with an aristocratic vibe.
Things to do in Seville:
- Visit Real Alcazar Palace and Gardens (popular filming location of the Game of Thrones)
- Explore Seville Cathedral, the tomb of Cristopher Colombus, and climb Giralda tower (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Check out Plaza de Espana and Parque de Maria Luisa
- Admire Bullfighting Museum
02 Granada
The next most stunning location in the south of Spain is Granada. This Arty and bohemian city is located in Darro Valley in the foothill of the famous Sierra Nevada. Granada is home to the Moorish masterpiece of Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. The city is also celebrated in the old Arabic quarter of Albayzin, popular caves of the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte, charming narrow streets, homely Andalusian tapas bars, and much more. Needless to say, Granada is one of the best cities to visit in Spain.
Things to do in Granada:
- Visit Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel
- Try some free tapas in Granada
- Get a relaxing spa treatment at Hammam Al Andalus
- Explore Sierra Nevada National Park
03 Ronda
Ronda is the most Andalusian spectacular town perched dramatically above the El Tajo gorge overlooking the surrounding Andalusian. It is the birthplace of bullfighting with the Plaza de Toro, the oldest bullring in Spain. Visitors from near and far come to enjoy the views from Puente Nuevo bridge over the gorge and Banos Arabes, one of the best-preserved Arab Baths in Andalusia. Ronda has been very much loved by writers, artists, and alike. A visit to this city would not be complete without dining at one of the town’s many restaurants with a view and enjoying a local meal of tapas or paella.
Things to do in Ronda:
- Visit Puente Nuevo bridge: the 18th century
- Visit Jardines De Cuenca for stunning views of the gorge and the bridge
- Taste amazing Andalusian wines by taking a wine tour
- Explore best-preserved Banos Arabes
04 Malaga
Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The city proudly holds more than 30 museums, among which Museo Pablo Picasso is probably best known. For striking views of Malaga, one can head to the 11th-century Gibralfaro Castle and Moorish fortress of Alcazaba. You can also try one of the numerous Michelin star restaurants, traditional tapas bars, and upscale cocktail bars during your stay in Malaga. Undoubtedly, Malaga is one of the best spots for vacation, and it is also one of the most beautiful beach cities in Spain.
Things to do in Malaga:
- Explore Alcazaba, the 11th-century Moorish palace
- Visit La Manquita(i.e. Malaga’s Cathedral)
- See Teatro Romano (Roman Theatre)
- Swim and relax at Playa Malagueta Beach
05 Cordoba
Historic Cordoba was the capital of Moorish Spain. Today Cordoba is one of the most beautiful towns in southern Spain. It is a historic gem in Andalusia with a romantic vibe. Being home of world-renowned Mezquita-Catedral, Cordoba is a must-see in Southern Spain road trips. Medieval Cordoba was praised for religious tolerance between Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Today Cordoba is also well-known for elegant Roman mosaics, bewitching Arab courtyards with stunning fountains filled with exotic flowers, trees, and aromatic plants. Cordoba is a town that should be on any list of road trips in Spain.
Things to do in Cordoba:
- Explore La Mezquita, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- See Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos palace with gardens
- Walk historical Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir river
- Visit Fiesta de Los Patios in May, the annual Courtyard Festival full of blossoms and scents.