Spain

El Torcal de Antequera: A unique karst landscape in Southern Spain

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Southern Spain is known for its sunny beaches and picturesque white villages, but did you know you can also explore a special karst landscape  to explore? El Torcal de Antequera is an extraordinary natural park where you will feel like you have entered a different world, filled with rugged rock formations, breathtaking views and scenic hiking trails. This nature reserve is just a short drive from Málaga and is a must-see during your trip through Andalusia.

The landscape of El Torcal

El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve with a history that dates back millions of years. ​​​​Long ago, this area was underwater, but as the water went away, an uncommon landscape was revealed. Now, it has a maze of canyons, caves, and bizarre limestone rock formations. The various layers of limestone stack up like pancakes, which is why the park is sometimes called the “pancake mountains.”

Spectacular viewpoints

Situated atop a hill, El Torcal offers panoramic views of the surrounding region. Near the visitor center, you’ll find several viewpoints, the most famous being Mirador de Las Ventanillas. From here, you can look out over the valleys and mountains of Andalusia, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea.

300*252

Hiking in the Park

Want to experience this stunning natural wonder up close? You can! There are three marked hiking trails that guide you through the surreal landscape. All routes start at the visitor center and are well-marked. If you’re unsure which trail to choose, don’t hesitate to ask for advice at the visitor center.

Green Route (1.5 km)

The green route is the shortest and easiest, perfect for families or if you’re limited with time. In about 45 minutes, you’ll complete a circular path that takes you past some impressive limestone formations. Keep in mind that this route is popular with tourists, so it can be crowded.

Yellow Route (3 km)

If you’re seeking more of a challenge, the yellow route is the best option. This trail adds an extra loop through the park and offers more variety in the landscape. The hike takes about two hours, and along the way, you’ll encounter spectacular rock formations like “El Tornillo,” a screw-shaped rock that serves as the symbol of El Torcal.

Orange Route (4.5 km)

The orange route is the longest and most challenging. It takes you through the most remote and untouched parts of the park, with the trek that lasts around three hours. The views and tranquility are well worth the effort. Unlike the other round-trip routes, you walk the same path back and forth

Explore El Torcal with a guide

Want to get the most out of your visit? Consider booking a tour with a local guide. These experts will show you hidden spots and tell you everything about the park’s geology, plants, and animals. Some guides even offer nighttime hikes, where you can explore the park under the stars—a truly unforgettable experience.

Flora & Fauna in El Torcal

Though El Torcal may initially appear barren and rocky, it is surprisingly rich in life. You’ll find wild olive trees, fragrant herbs like thyme and rosemary, and in spring, wild orchids add color to the rocky plains. If you’re lucky, you might spot birds of prey like the Spanish imperial eagle and griffon vulture soaring above the cliffs. Mountain goats, foxes, and ibex also call this area home.

Practical information for your visit

How to get there

El Torcal de Antequera is about a 45-minute drive from Málaga and is most easily reached by car. There is a large parking area at the visitor center where you can park for free. However, it can get busy during peak season, so it’s advisable to arrive early. From the parking lot, you can start your hike right away. Unfortunately, the park is not accessible by public transport, so you’ll need a car or book a tour to visit.

Visitor center and restaurant

The visitor center offers information about the park, maps, and hiking tips. There is also a small museum that provides more insight into the geology and history of El Torcal. After your hike, you can enjoy a meal or drink at the adjacent restaurant while enjoying the view of the surrounding landscape.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit El Torcal. The temperatures are pleasant, and nature is in full bloom. In summer, it can get extremely hot, which is not ideal for hiking, and in winter, it can even snow!

What to wear

Wear good hiking shoes, as all routes require some climbing over rocks. Sneakers are fine in good weather, but when it is rainy or foggy, you will need shoes with more grip.

What to bring

Bring enough water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trails. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong.

Good to know

  • The park is open year-round and free to visit.
  • Check the weather forecast beforehand, as dense fog is common here.
  • Try to avoid the hottest part of the day during summer, as there is little shade.
  • Stick to the marked paths, as it’s easy to get lost in this natural maze; everything looks similar!
  • The trails are not wheelchair or stroller accessible. The viewpoints near the visitor center are a good alternative.
  • Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.

Staying near El Torcal

If you want to spend more time in this beautiful area, there are various accommodation options nearby, from cozy bed & breakfasts to luxury country houses. An overnight stay gives you the chance to explore the park outside of peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon when the light is also at its most beautiful.

Explore Antequera

El Torcal is located near the charming town of Antequera, which is definitely worth a visit. Explore the prehistoric Dolmens, the Moorish Alcazaba fortress and wander through the narrow streets of the old town—a perfect cultural excursion after your nature adventure.

Road trip through Andalusia

Are you planning a road trip through Andalusia? Be sure to add El Torcal to your itinerary. Besides its impressive natural beauty, Andalusia has many more beautiful sights, such as the Alhambra in Granada and the Puente Nuevo in Ronda. Not sure where to start planning? We’ve put together a two-week itinerary through Andalusia for you.

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A Travel Guide for your City Trip to Madrid, Spain

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A Travel Guide for your City Trip to Madrid, Spain

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A Travel Guide for your City Trip to Madrid, Spain

The 10 best highlights and to do’s in Madrid

1. Get to know vibrant Madrid in the different neighborhoods

You will find fewer tourists in Madrid than in other major cities in Spain. So you find yourself completely with the Madrilenians here. The best way to experience local life and meet locals is by exploring the lively and hip neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own atmosphere and character. Let’s explore our favorite ones!

💛 La Malasaña is the trendiest neighborhood among young people. It is full of vintage shops, live music and you will find nice bars and restaurants on every corner of the street.

💛 Chueca is known as the LGBTI+ neighborhood and is the most vibrant. Here you come for the best nightlife and you can order a lot of tapas at almost every restaurant.

💛 La Latina is one of the oldest and local neighborhoods in Madrid. On Sundays from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, the gigantic El Rastro flea market fills the winding streets of La Latina.

💛 Lavapiés is one of the most multicultural neighborhoods in Madrid. You will find bars and restaurants with cuisines from different parts of the world. It is also the best place to spot colorful street art and decorated streets.

💛 In the district of Jeronimos (Retiro) you will find a lot of greenery in the city park El Retiro, but you will also be amazed by all the impressive buildings.

💛 The Sol district is located just outside the city center. Highlights are the beautiful squares and the street Gran Vía, with all the museums, shops, theaters and striking architecture.

The best local experiences in Madrid

2. Discover the beautiful architecture of Madrid

As you wander through the streets of Madrid, you will be surprised again and again by beautiful architecture. We think the most striking buildings and palaces are Palacio Real de Madrid, Edificio Metrópolis, Palacio de Cibeles, cathedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, Palacio de Cristal, casa Gallardo and the Egyptian temple ‘Templo de Debod’.

3. Relax until sunset in the gigantic city park El Retiro

After all the sightseeing, it is great to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The best way to do this is to relax in the huge El Retiro city park.

El Retiro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was previously privately owned by the Spanish Royal Family. El Retiro has been open to the public since 1868. The park is the green heart of Madrid and many locals find their way here. For running, walking the dog, for a cozy picnic or to cool off in the shade of the many trees.

Tips for your visit to El Retiro

The park is open daily and free to visit. From April to September, the park is open from 6:00 AM to midnight and from October to March from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM. The park is centrally located so is easy to reach on foot from many other highlights. Are you traveling by metro? Then get on line 2 and get off at the Retiro metro stop.

Things to do in El Retiro

In addition to relaxation, there is also plenty to do in El Retiro. Stroll through the gardens full of fountains and statues, visit the Crystal Palace, enjoy the music of buskers or rent a boat and row across the Estanque Grande del Retiro lake.

Rent a boat at the lake Estanque Grande del Retiro

A fun activity is to row a boat across the Estanque Grande del Retiro lake. On the lake you will enjoy the sun, the water and the impressive architecture around the lake, such as the large columned monument of King Alfonso XII.

You can rent a boat from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and from 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM (these times may differ in winter). Make a reservation in advance via telephone number: (+34) 91 574 40 24. With a reservation you skip the line at the cash desk. It is also possible to rent a boat on site. You rent a boat for 45 minutes. During the week you pay €6 per boat, during the weekend and on holidays a boat costs €8.

Visit Palacio de Cristal

The most beautiful sight in El Retiro is Palacio de Cristal. This crystal palace was built in 1887 and its purpose was to exhibit tropical (mainly Filipino) plants. Today, the beautiful location is used for changing exhibitions. The entrance to Palacio de Cristal is free. From April to September the palace is open from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM and from October to March from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Palacio de Cristal is closed on holidays.

It is definitely worth it to walk around Palacio de Cristal. The palace is surrounded by greenery and a pond, where turtles live. A beautiful reflection of the palace can often be seen in the water of the pond.

4. Pay a (free) visit to Palacio Real, the royal palace

After the Moorish Alcázar (fortress) was destroyed by fire in 1734, the royal palace was built in order by Felipe V. Palacio Real is one of the most important and impressive sights in Madrid. The huge Baroque palace has 3,418 rooms full of ceiling paintings, tapestries and frescoes. Stroll through the galleries of the palace and see the Royal Library, armory and throne room. Today, Palacio Real is only the working palace of the king and the royal family lives in another palace Zarzuela in the north of Madrid.

Tips for your visit to Palacio Real

The palace is open daily from October to March from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (with different opening hours on Sundays from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM). From April to September, the palace is open daily from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (with different opening hours on Sundays from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM).
From Monday to Thursday you can visit the palace for free for the last two hours. Are you not there on these days or times? Buy your tickets here to avoid queues at the ticket office.

5. Drink a cocktail at a special hidden gem!

Hidden under a regular shop, in the busy shopping street of Gran Vía, is bar Salvador Bachiller. Walk down the spiral staircase and arrive at a hidden lush jungle with cozy lights, a detailed interior and lots of plants. You don’t just go here for the exclusive cocktails. It is a whole experience.

6. Stroll through the indoor botanical garden of Atocha train station

The Atocha train station is not just any train station. In the middle of the station you will find a large botanical garden with more than 260 different tropical plant species. Here you certainly do not have to worry about missing your train, because this is not a bad place at all to wait for the next train. Even if you do not have to catch a train, it is worth visiting the train station. Tip: Walk upstairs for a nice view of the indoor garden and spot the impressive details of the station building.

7. Taste local specialties at the indoor market hall Mercado San Miguel

You can taste delicious tapas and drinks from all over Spain at the Mercado San Miguel. This market hall is located in a beautiful building from 1916. There are 31 stalls, each with their own specialty. Order a fresh empanada at La Hora Del Vermut, get a smooth red wine at Pinkleton & Wine or buy the tastiest fruit at Felixia.

The market hall is open from Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 10.00 AM to midnight and on Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays the market hall is open from 10.00 AM – 01.00 AM.

8. Stroll across Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is an imposing square from the 17th century. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings. In the center of the square is a bronze equestrian statue of King Filips III. Plaza Mayor used to be mainly used for markets, bullfights and public executions. Today, the square is regularly used for events and concerts.

A total of 9 streets lead to Plaza Mayor, which is why the square is a central point in Madrid. On the square you will find many restaurants and terraces, know that the prices can be higher if you want to eat and drink something here. From the terrace you can enjoy the artists and street performers who can often be seen on this square.

9. Watch the city from above at Sky Bar 360°

Sky Bar 360° is located on the 27th floor of the hotel Riu. Walk across the glass bridge and float above the city. Because of the height you have the best view over Madrid from here. Would you dare?!

10. Admire the Vertical Garden next to the Caixa Forum Museum

The Caixa Forum Museum is located in an old power station, that has been transformed into a cultural center. On the outside you will find a 27 meter high wall, covered with 15,000 – 17,000 plants. Due to the changing climate of Madrid (hot summers, cold winters), plant species had to be planted that can cope with these seasonal changes. Eventually you can find 300 (!) different plant species on the wall. The different structures of the plants and leaves and the different colors of green give a very special sight.

Traveling to Madrid

You can get to Madrid in many different ways. We took a ride via the BlaBlaCar platform from Málaga to Madrid. It’s a cheap and fun way to get from A to B. This way you can easily get in touch with locals and Carlos told us everything about his beloved Spain and the culture and history during the 6-hour ride. Super cool and educational too!

Another option is to travel by high-speed train from other Spanish cities such as Málaga, Valencia and Seville.

Madrid airport is one of the largest in Spain. So flying is definitely an option. From the Netherlands you fly to Madrid in just over 2 hours. From the airport you can take the metro to the city center for around €5.

How to explore Madrid

Madrid is a big city, but still walking is the best way to explore the city. Walking allows you to take in more of the city and you get to places that you would otherwise not be able to reach by public transport or a taxi. You do need a good condition to walk everything. Madrid is hilly and you can easily walk several kilometers in a day.

To cover longer distances, you can also choose to travel by public transport. The metro is a quick and cheap option. You can buy a metro ticket for €1.50 and there are plenty of stops throughout the city where you can get on.

More ways to get around in Madrid

Are you in Madrid for a short time and do you still want to get a good impression of the city? Then these tours are something for you.

Our favorite places to eat and drink in Madrid

Throughout the blog you will find some nice and tasty spots to eat or drink. We list these and more for you below.

🥐 At Maison Kayser you can enjoy a delicious fresh breakfast.
🥯 Brunch Club Café is a cozy place for breakfast or brunch. The food is of good quality and the dishes on the menu are diverse.
🍹 Salvador Bachiller is a hidden bar under an ordinary shop in busy shopping street Gran Vía. Drinking a drink in this underground jungle is quite an experience.
🥟 In the beautiful covered market hall San Miguel you can choose from many tasty snacks or drinks.
🍔 For tasty vegan burgers, go to Mad Mad Vegan. We also recommend the Supreme YAYA fries.
🥑 Distrito Vegano is nicely decorated, there is a great atmosphere and the food is surprisingly tasty.
🍳 Plenti Café is a great place for breakfast or lunch. Choose a spot on the terrace, or go for a table in the cozy café. The fried egg dishes are unique and delicious, highly recommended!
🥞 Crêperie La Rue is located in the lively area of ​​La Malasaña. They serve savory and sweet crepes and various small bites.
☕️ At Nomade Café you can order delicious smoothies, salads, toasts, pancakes or granola.
💚 La Huerta de Almería is a great concept! It is a small vegetarian supermarket, but you can also take a seat in the restaurant and choose from various healthy vegetarian/vegan dishes from the menu.

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*When you click on the links in our blogs and make a purchase or book your stay, we are rewarded with a small commission (at no extra cost to you). In this way you support us, so we can keep creating blogs and travel guides for you. 🫶🏼

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10 Best things to do & see in Málaga, Spain

The ultimate 2-week road trip through Andalusia, Spain

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Day 1-2: Arrival in Málaga, visit Castillo de Colomares and stay overnight in Mijas

We landed at Málaga Airport. Pick up your rental car and drive in 30-40 minutes to Benalmádena. In this small town you can visit the monument Castillo de Colomares.  This monument pays tribute to the explorer Christopher Columbus and his crew. Esteban Martin Martin designed the fairytale castle and had it built between 1987 and 1994. He was very fascinated by the famous explorer. The monument is rich in beautiful details, an impressive architectural style, statues of gargoyles and here you will find the smallest chapel in the world! From the monument you have a panoramic view of the sea.

Continue your journey after the sunset towards Mijas and stay here the first night. The next morning you can experience the local life in Mijas. Mijas is full of beautiful viewpoints and cute narrow streets.

In the afternoon you can drive to your next stop; Ronda. From Mijas it is about 1.5 hours drive. The route takes you past rolling landscapes and along the way you will encounter many beautiful views.

Day 3-4: Discover Ronda

Many people make a day trip to Ronda, but staying in Ronda gives you the chance to fully discover and experience this incredible city. Ronda is located in a mountainous area, high on the edge of the El Tajo gorge that divides the city in two. The parts are connected by the ancient bridge Puente Nuevo, which is the icon of Ronda. Other highlights of Ronda include Spain’s oldest bullring, the cobbled streets of the historic center and the best-preserved Arab baths in Spain; Baños Árabes de Ronda.

Discover more: 6 Most Beautiful Sights of Ronda, Spain

Day 5: From Ronda to Setenil de las Bodegas, Zahara de la Sierra towards Seville

Today you will drive from Ronda to Seville with two beautiful and worthy stops. The total journey is 2.5 hours (not counting the time you discover the towns). The first stop is the small, whitewashed cave village Setenil de las Bodegas. Here you admire the special Cuevas del Sol, rock dwellings.

The second stop is at the idyllic hill town of Zahara de la Sierra. When you arrive, you can already see the town and its 13th-century castle towering over the landscape. Zahara de la Sierra is located on top of a rock, surrounded by green nature and turquoise water. The town looks very cosy, but unfortunately it was siesta time and everything was closed when we arrived here. So keep that in mind if you want to discover Zahara de la Sierra.

Make your way to your final destination, Seville, where you will spend the next few days.

Day 6-8: Staying in beautiful Seville

Seville is in our opinion one of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia, where there is much to discover. You can easily spend 3 full days in Seville. Enjoy the Spanish sun and the pleasant atmosphere on one of the terraces of the delicious tapas restaurants. Visit the ancient palaces with Moorish influences or watch a flamenco performance to experience Andalusian culture at its best.

Read more: 8 Best things to do & see in Seville

Day 9: Staying in Córdoba

The drive from Seville to Córdoba takes almost 2 hours. Plan 1 full day to discover all the must-sees in Córdoba. One of them is the impressive Mezquita Catedral. The mosque dates from the 8th century and around 1523 a cathedral was built in the middle of the mosque. Numerous styles and religious elements of Islam and Western culture converge here. You only see this combination a few times around the world. Admire the beautiful elements of the Mezquita, such as the chapels, red and white arches, a prayer hall, decorations and stained glass.

Another highlight is the Puente Romano, a 2100 (!) years old bridge, built over the Guadalquivir river. The bridge was built by the Romans and later extended by the Moors, giving it its current appearance. From the bridge you have a nice view of the old town, the Puerta del Puente and the Mezquita. For all Game Of Thrones fans; the bridge is a filming location. It is the long bridge to the free city of Volantis.

Food tip: Looking for a cute place to have some breakfast lunch or dinner? Then definitely go to Breakfast Club & Co. The interior and the food is so colorful! This place is right next to the bridge.

Day 10-11: Beautiful nature in Antequera and staying in Granada

From Córdoba to Granada it is about 2.5 hours if you drive via Antequera. This route was our favorite during the road trip! Both the town of Antequera and the beautiful nature reserve nearby; El Torcal de Antequera are worth a visit. In this nature reserve you drive on steep roads past rocky outcrops, panoramic viewpoints and you spot eagles hunting for their prey. If you have more time, we definitely recommend hiking in this area.

Granada is the end destination for this day. This city certainly impressed us. During a road trip through Andalusia you will come across a lot of beautiful architecture with Moorish influences and, in our opinion, the most impressive building can be found in Granada; the Alhambra. The complex is located on top of the hills behind the city and is a must see when you are in Granada.

Also read: Tips for a visit to Granada

Day 12-14: Staying in Málaga and make day trips to Nerja and Marbella

Spend a morning in Nerja

On the way from Granada to Málaga, make a stop in Nerja (1 hour drive from Granada), a coastal town located directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The salty sea air, palm trees, bays and clear blue water give you the ultimate holiday feeling! Be warned as Nerja is very touristy. Don’t let that put you off, as it’s definitely worth a stop here on your Andalucia road trip. There are several reasons to visit Nerja. Walk down the boulevard and take a look at Balcón de Europa, a former fortress that rises far above the rocks, from here you have a beautiful view over the coastline and the impressive mountainous environment. You can also spend a day sunbathing on one of the beaches. The most beautiful beaches of Nerja are; Playa de Calahonda, Playa Carabeo, Playa El Salón, Playa la Caletti, Playa El Chorrillo. You can also do many water activities, such as paddle boarding, water skiing and snorkeling.

After a visit to Nerja, drive to Málaga in 45 minutes. This will be the end destination of your road trip through Andalusia.

Spend an afternoon in Marbella

A trip from Málaga to Marbella is a 45 minute drive. The old town is full of character and well worth a visit. Here you walk through colorful narrow alleys, past impressive churches such as Iglesia de la Encarnación, towards Plaza de los Naranjos, where you can admire the 16th century old town hall. Besides visiting the city center it is also nice to walk through the tropical city park la Alameda. And a little further you will find the boulevard Paseo Marítimo and the beach. These are the perfect places to relax and unwind.

Looking for a cute place to have a drink? Then definitely go to the urban restaurant The Farm. You can relax in their green courtyard while enjoying a refreshing drink.

Spend the rest of your time relaxing in Málaga

We fell in love with Málaga immediately and you are warmly welcomed by the Malagueños. This atmospheric city has a lot to offer; sun, sea, beach, beautiful green city parks, walking routes and a bustling harbor and boulevard. And until late in the evening you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor life, delicious tapas and cocktails on the terraces of the many restaurants, bars and rooftop bars.

Read more: 10 Best things to do & see in Málaga

The costs of traveling through Andalusia

Our daily budget was around €50 per person; including activities, a rental car for 10 days, fuel, parking costs, accommodations and food and drinks.

How to get around in Andalusia

We recommend renting a car from MalagaCar.com (not sponsored). If you arrive at Málaga airport, you will be taken by shuttle bus to their car shed in 5 minutes. Here you only have to pay and collect the keys. The communication with MalagaCar.com is super easy, the cars are well maintained and you can book a car in advance.

Tip: Avoid toll roads during your road trip. The other routes were often not the fastest, but so authentic and beautiful.

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*When you click on the links in our blogs and make a purchase or book your stay, we are rewarded with a small commission (at no extra cost to you). In this way you support us, so we can keep creating blogs and travel guides for you. 🫶🏼

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El Torcal de Antequera: A unique karst landscape in Southern Spain

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Tips for a visit to Granada, Spain

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The must see in Granada; the Alhambra

The Alhambra sits atop the hills behind the city and is a must visit when in Granada. The Alhambra was built during the time when the Moors ruled Europe. The palace gives you a good idea of ​​how the sultans used to live back then.

The complex consists of a number of sights; The Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba Fortress and the Generalife Summer Palace, including the giant gardens. So you can easily walk around the Alhambra for a few hours. There is no certain route along the various sights. There are several entrances, so you can decide for yourself what you want to see first. We first wanted to see the Arab Nasrid palaces. We had booked the first time slot – at 8:30 am – so it was (still) fairly quiet there.

The enchanting Nasrid Palaces

The Nasrid Palaces consist of:

Le Mexuar is the oldest palace in the Alhambra. It was the reception room of the kings and important matters were arranged here.

Palacio de Comares is the palace of the sultan, with its private quarters and the throne and ambassadors hall. In our opinion, the patio de Arrayanes is the most beautiful part of the Alhambra. The basin reflects the beautiful architecture. Be sure to stand still for a while in the throne room. This place is magical. We could stare for hours at the beautiful ornamentation, decoration and geometric figures. So many details!

Palacio de los Leones housed the private quarters of the royal family. The jewel of this palace is the beautiful patio, surrounded by columns and where the fountain of 12 marble lions takes center stage.

The ancient Alcazaba Fortress

Before the Moors invaded Europe and expanded the construction of the Alhambra, the military fortress Alcazaba already stood on the hills. A strategic location! The Alcazaba is therefore the oldest part of the Alhambra of which only the outer walls and meter high towers remain.

The summer palace Generalife

Make sure you have access to the summer palace with your ticket; Generalife. Stroll through the green, relaxing and one of the oldest Moorish gardens with ponds, hedges, flowers, fountains and water jets. What you should not miss is Patio de la Acequia and the beautiful views over the neighborhoods of Granada.

Useful tips for your visit to the Alhambra

💛 Claim your ticket online! The Alhambra is very popular so it is necessary to buy tickets in advance. 

💛 You can buy an audioguide on site. We definitely recommend it to find out everything about the Alhambra. The audioguide costs €6 and is also available in dutch. 

💛 Booking a ticket can be quite complicated. You must have separate entrance tickets for certain sights. If you want to see it all, make sure your ticket gives you access to the following complexes: the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba Fortress and the Generalife Summer Palace, including the gardens. 

💛 Make sure you are on time for your booked time slot. Navigate to Calle Real de la Alhambra to arrive at the main entrance. The path to the main entrance is quite steep. So take into account extra time if you go on foot.

Here you experience authentic Granada

If you go to Granada, be sure to stroll through the narrow and atmospheric streets of the authentic neighborhoods Albaicín & Sacromonte. Because they are on top of the hills, you will be surprised by the beautiful viewpoints of the Alhambra and the rest of Granada. Besides that, you will find lots of bars and restaurants and Arabic and Moorish influences in the architecture.

Walk to plaza de San Nicolas during sunset to spot a beautiful view!

Plan your next trip

Find the best stay

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Book fun tours

*When you click on the links in our blogs and make a purchase or book your stay, we are rewarded with a small commission (at no extra cost to you). In this way you support us, so we can keep creating blogs and travel guides for you. 🫶🏼

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6 Most Beautiful Sights of Ronda, Spain

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1. The new bridge Puente Nuevo and the gorge El Tajo

The most iconic highlight of Ronda is the new bridge, aka Puente Nuevo. The bridge with 3 arches was built in the 18th century over the Guadalevín river and the enormous – almost 100 meters deep – El Tajo gorge to connect the two parts of the city. When you walk on the bridge and look down, you see birds flying through the gorge. You should not be afraid of heights – like Abel – because at that moment you realize how high it is. Would you dare to cross this bridge?!

There are a few spots with a spectacular view of the gorge, the bridge, the river and lively Ronda:

  • During sunrise you have the most beautiful view from Mirador del Viento. Here you can see the sun rising behind the bridge. The sun’s rays will occur between the 3 arches of the bridge. You reach this point by following the path down from the bridge.

2. Baños Árabes de Ronda

In Ronda you can visit the best preserved Arab baths in Spain. You pay a small entrance fee at the entrance. For a moment the Arabic bathhouse of Ronda makes you feel like you’re back in the 12th, 13th century! You will get an idea of ​​what the baths used to look like. How magical is the light that shines through the star-shaped openings through the roof?! ✨

3. Bullring Plaza de Toros de Ronda de la Real Maestranza

Although we don’t like bullfighting and think it’s fiercely, a visit to the bullring Plaza de Toros de Ronda de la Real Maestranza is a way to discover Spanish culture. The tradition of bullfighting originated in Ronda and the bullring, built in 1785, is one of the oldest of Spain. You will see where the bulls reside in the stables prior to the fight, and you can enter the arena and grandstands, which can seat 5,000 people. In the accompanying museum you can take a journey through the history of bullfighting. You can see, the traditional clothing, weapons, horse harnesses and the developments that have taken place in bullfights that are (fortunately) held very little nowadays.

4. Alameda del Tajo

Wander around the green park of Alameda del Tajo, which takes you to the edge of the canyon. From here you look out over two national parks, Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves.

5. The viewpoint Balcón del Coño

Walk a little further from Alameda del Tajo and arrive at the viewpoint Balcón del Coño. Here you have an amazing view from a small balcony over the valley and the mountainous surroundings. This is therefore the place where you – accompanied by street performers – spot the most beautiful sunset in Ronda.

6. The historic center

Ronda is a city full of atmosphere and coziness. And you can experience that atmosphere the best in the historic center. Here you can stroll through the charming squares, such as Plaza Duquesa de Parcent and Plaza del Socorro. And get lost in the narrow streets where you can eat the tastiest Paella! For the Vegetarians among us you should definitely visit El Portón for the beste veggie Paella.

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Find the best tips for your
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DO YOU WANT TO
EXPLORE MORE OF SPAIN?

Read all our blogs with tips, inspiration and to do’s in Spain.

ALL ABOUT SPAIN

You will
love this too

  • Spain

El Torcal de Antequera: A unique karst landscape in Southern Spain

  • Spain
A Travel Guide for your City Trip to Madrid, Spain

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  • Spain

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10 Best things to do & see in Málaga, Spain

10 Best things to do & see in Málaga, Spain

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1. Visit the Moorish fortress Alcazaba de Málaga

Discover the rich history of Málaga during a visit to the former Moorish fortress Alcazaba de Málaga. The construction of this fortress started in the 9th century and was extended two hundred years later and became part of the fortress walls surrounding the city. With the aim to protect Málaga from invaders and to provide a safe place for governors and princes.

Within the walls of the complex you will find palaces, patios, fountains and beautiful architecture. Moorish influences can be seen in the architectural style like the decorated arches with Arabic characters and figures. The influences also can be seen in the gardens were there has been installed an impressive irrigation system.

A visit to Alcazaba de Málaga is literally a highlight. The fortress is built on the slope of the mountain Gibralfaro, so enjoy beautiful views over the city!

Tip: A visit to the fortress is free on Sundays.

2. Take a look at Teatro Romano

Teatro Romano is one of the oldest Roman theaters in Spain and probably dates from the last century BC. The theater is located next to the Alcazaba de Málaga, so you can perfectly combine it with a visit to the Moorish fortress. The remains of Teatro Romano were discovered in 1951 during excavations. The missing parts were partly used by the Moors for the construction of the Alcazaba de Málaga. After many years of restoration, the theater now serves as an exhibition space and shows are held here in the summer.

Do you want to learn more about this beautiful Roman theater and the Alcazaba fortress then there are also guided tours available here.

3. Spot the cathedral of Málaga

On Plaza del Obispo, in the old part of the center, you find the cathedral of Málaga. This large impressive structure can be seen from many places in the city. If you pay attention, you will notice that the cathedral was never completed and is missing a tower. It is therefore popularly known as La Manquita; one-armed lady.

4. Relax in the most tropical city park Paseo del Parque

If you want to get away from the bustle of the city, you can relax in Paseo del Parque. This extensive park, approximately 800 meters long, runs parallel to the harbor and has plenty of seating areas to relax. Many locals also know where to find this place and they meet up or read the newspaper. In Paseo del Parque you will encounter the most special and exotic trees and plants from all over the world. So it’s like a gigantic botanical garden!

5. Discover the coast of Málaga by bike

With a bike you can discover the area outside the city center of Málaga in a relaxed way. There are several routes, but our favorite route is exploring the east coast.

The route is about 30 kilometers long and starts in the center of Málaga. You will cycle past the harbor, the lighthouse, the city beach La Malagueta and beach pavilion Baños del Carmen. Follow the boulevard to the former fishing districts of Pedregalejo and El Palo. Here you will get to know the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle. The suburbs are located directly on the sea. The streets are filled with colored houses, beach bars and street art. Next to the boulevard you will find the iconic boat barbecues, where they prepare the local specialty ‘Espeto de Sardinas’ (grilled sardines). Hop off your bike for a beach walk along the bays that are full of small fishing boats.

We definitely recommend to continue the route to arrive at a number of less touristy beaches. The most beautiful beach is Playa Peñon del Cuervo, which is named after the special rock formation in the water. At the end of the beach begins an old railway tunnel that leads you to the beach of la Cala del Moral. Park your bike and walk over the rocks towards Rincón de la Victoria, the end point of the route. From here you can cycle the same way back to the city center of Málaga again.

Tip: We rented our bikes at Bike Tours Málaga. Rent a bike to explore on your own or participate in one of the organized bike tours.

6. Watch the bullring Plaza de Toros La Malagueta from above

Climb to the viewpoint Mirador de Gibralfaro to get a better view of the city. From here you also get an interesting view of the bullring Plaza de Toros La Malagueta. Walk a few minutes further then the viewpoint to avoid the crowds and enjoy the view all by yourself.

7. Stroll along the harbor during the golden and blue hour

An evening stroll along the modern harbor during the golden hour is magically beautiful! The palm trees stand out against the golden sky, you have a beautiful view of the sea. The boulevard takes you past cozy terraces, shops and the lighthouse La Farola. Also spot the moored luxury yachts, cruise ships and sailboats. Tip: be sure to wait until the sun has set and the blue hour begins. The sky turns bright pink.

8. Try the best tapas and drink exclusive cocktails

In our opinion the food and drink in Málaga is the best highlight of all. The menus are full of tasty surprises, also for vegetarians. Every time you get spoiled with delicious recipes on the house.

Find out our 17 favorite restaurants and bars in Málaga, recommended by locals ;).

9. Watch the sunset from the breathtaking viewpoint Monte Victoria

On top of the hill Monte Victoria you can see the most magical sunset. This viewpoint makes it possible to see the entire city from a different angle. Monte Victoria is located just outside the city. From the center you walk to the top in 40-50 minutes. When you are sitting here, chatting together, with a beer in your hand, overlooking thousands of roofs, staring at the sun that disappears behind the mountains, watching the night life, you realize there is nothing more you need. It’s about the little things in life. Those are unforgettable!

10. Let’s hike the Sendero Picapedreros Trail

In less than a 15 minutes ride from the center of Málaga you will find the area Los Molinos de San Telmo. Here starts the Sendero Picapederos Trail and you will walk through the mountainous Montes de Málaga Natural Park. It is a wonderfully quiet area where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, great views and beautiful nature. The area is full of olive and eucalyptus trees, wide forest roads and narrow steep paths through the pine forests. 

More about: Hiking in Málaga – Sendero Picapedreros Trail