Andalucia Road Trip: The Perfect 10-14 Day Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy.

Ultimate south of Spain road trip guide

Andalucía is the heart of southern Spain, a region where history, landscape, and daily life are tightly woven together. Over the past six years, we’ve returned again and again, driving its back roads, lingering in its cities, and slowly getting to know places that reveal more with each visit. From grand historic capitals to white villages perched above olive groves and sierras, this is a region that rewards time and curiosity.

Some of our best memories here are the small, unplanned moments. Late-night flamenco in neighbourhood bars, long lunches that stretch into the afternoon, and quiet drives through landscapes that feel unchanged for generations. Andalucía carries the imprint of centuries of Moorish rule, and you feel it everywhere, in the architecture, the food, and the rhythm of daily life.

This 10–14 day Andalucía road trip brings together everything we’ve learned from travelling the region by car. It links the essential historic cities with quieter stops along the way, balancing culture, scenery, and driving time so the journey never feels rushed. Along the route, we share practical advice, route planning tips, and the places that genuinely stood out to us, so you can travel with confidence and shape your perfect Andalucía road trip.

Andalucía Road Trip Map

Andalucía Road Trip Itinerary

Route: Malaga – Marbella – Ronda – Cadiz – Jerez de la Frontera – Seville – Cordoba – Antequera – Granada- Nerja – Malaga
Distance: ~1041 km
Duration: 10-14 days
Best time to go: May–June, September–October
Best for: Scenic driving, alpine landscapes, history, quieter inland France

This map shows the main bases and driving route. You can save it to Google Maps for planning or offline use while driving.

Detailed accommodation guidance for each stop, including recommended night counts and how they fit into the flow of the route, is included after the itinerary.

Málaga: Arrival and a First Taste of Andalucía

The first stop on this 10–14 day Andalucía road trip is Málaga. Pick up your rental car or campervan at Málaga Airport and, within an hour, you’ll be checked into your hotel or heading straight out onto the open road.

Málaga is a lively, working city, with a busy centre full of bars, restaurants, cafés, and constant movement. It’s easy to be distracted by the high-rise buildings and advertising on arrival, but look beyond that first impression and you’ll find a warm, historic city that rewards time and curiosity.

In Málaga’s old town, history sits comfortably alongside modern city life. La Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress dating back to the 700s, rises above the centre, while the cathedral and a scattering of smaller churches give the streets a distinctly Andalusian feel. The Mercado de Atarazanas is one of the best food markets in Andalucía and well worth a visit. Just opposite the market, to the left as you face the main entrance, El Bar de los Pueblos is a reliable spot for simple, authentic tapas.

Life in Málaga really comes into its own along the seafront. After siesta time, which is still fiercely respected here, locals head out for an evening paseo. From around 5pm, the promenade fills with families, friends, and couples strolling, stopping for a beer and a tapa, even in the Spanish winter when the sun still has warmth.

For a higher viewpoint, head up into the green hills of the Montes de Málaga to the 10th-century Castillo de Gibralfaro. The views over the city, port, and coastline are worth the effort. From the Alcazaba, it’s about a 30-minute uphill walk, but if that feels ambitious after a long lunch, the hop-on hop-off bus also stops at the castle.

Málaga also works brilliantly as a base for a day trip inland to the Caminito del Rey, one of Andalucía’s most dramatic walks. It’s around 50 km to El Chorro, where the route threads its way along suspended walkways through the narrow Gorge of Gaitanes. Expect sheer rock walls, vertiginous views, and plenty of company, as this is no longer a secret.

We highly recommend this guided Caminito del Rey tour from Málaga. Transport is included, and the guide adds real context about the construction and history of this remarkable piece of engineering, rather than simply walking you from start to finish.

Our tip: For a more local feel, head east to the Pedregalejo district. This is where Málaga’s beach culture feels most authentic, with chiringuitos serving freshly grilled seafood right on the sand from late afternoon into the evening.

Marbella: A Coastal Pause Before Heading Inland

In Marbella, spend a relaxed day by the sea, choosing from three well-kept beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and unhurried people-watching. The era of headline-grabbing celebrities may have passed, but there is still a light touch of glamour here, especially along the promenade and marina.

Make time to explore the old town, where narrow streets lead to Plaza de los Naranjos, the heart of the Casco Antiguo. This is a good place to stop for a coffee and watch daily life unfold, before browsing the small artisan boutiques and upmarket shops that surround the square.

If you prefer a more structured introduction, a highly rated guided walk of Marbella’s historic centre is a good option. These tours combine local history with tastings of traditional tapas, regional wines, and olive oils, giving you a quick but well-rounded sense of the city.

Our tip: For lunch, seek out Taberna Casa Curro Marbella, a long-standing local favourite serving freshly made tapas and excellent Spanish wines in a relaxed setting.

Ronda: Dramatic Clifftop Views and White Village Roads

The drive from Marbella to Ronda is one of the most memorable stretches of this Andalucía road trip. The road climbs steadily into the mountains, with long views opening out as you approach Ronda, which sits dramatically between the Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de las Nieves, surrounded by rugged peaks on all sides.

Ronda itself is split in two by the 120-metre-deep El Tajo Gorge, crossed by the iconic Puente Nuevo. The bridge is most impressive when seen from below, particularly from the gardens of La Casa del Rey Moro, where the views across the gorge are at their best. For something more adventurous, it’s also possible to explore the vertical walls of the gorge on a guided via Ferrata , which gives a completely different perspective on the landscape.

Bullfighting is a divisive subject, but it remains an important part of Spanish history and culture. Ronda’s Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest and most striking bullrings in the country, and the on-site museum does a good job of explaining the traditions, history, and spectacle of the corrida, even if you don’t agree with the practice itself.

Ronda also makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Pueblos Blancos. The white villages scattered through the nearby mountains are some of the most photogenic in Andalucía and are best reached by car. Just north of town, Zahara de la Sierra and Setenil de las Bodegas are both easy day trips. Setenil is particularly distinctive, with whitewashed houses built directly into the rock overhangs, creating one of the region’s most recognisable scenes.

Our tip: For one of the most scenic drives of the entire trip, head from Ronda towards Zahara de la Sierra, then take the twisting CA-9104 to Grazalema. The road climbs to Puerto de las Palomas at 1,180 metres, with sweeping views across the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. From Grazalema, continue on the A-372 towards Arcos de la Frontera, then follow the A-382 and E-5 onwards to Cádiz.

Cádiz: Atlantic Light, Faded Grandeur, and Laid-Back Evenings

Cádiz has a weathered, almost bleached beauty, shaped by centuries of exposure to Atlantic air. The salt and wind have softened the façades and worn the city’s edges, giving it a slightly faded look that belies its true personality.

In reality, Cádiz is lively, sociable, and famously good at enjoying itself. The city has a strong party streak, most visible during carnival, which is one of the boldest and most irreverent in Spain. Even outside festival season, there’s an easy, upbeat rhythm to daily life here.

Almost entirely surrounded by water, Cádiz is made for wandering. The old town is compact and atmospheric, with narrow streets, colourful buildings, flower-filled squares, and a handful of impressive churches woven into the maze. It’s the kind of place where getting lost is part of the appeal.

A guided tour of medieval Cadiz is a good way to understand the city’s layers of history. Highlights include the cathedral and its museum, the Roman theatre in the Pópulo district, and remnants that trace Cádiz’s past back to Phoenician times.

Food in Cádiz revolves around the sea. From choosing fresh fish at the Mercado Central de Abastos to ordering plates of simple, expertly cooked seafood with a glass of fino sherry, meals here are unfussy and deeply local.

Our tip: End the day at Playa de la Caleta. Sitting right beside the old town, it’s one of the best places in the city to watch the sun drop into the Atlantic.

More Spain Travel Ideas

Jerez de la Frontera: Sherry, Flamenco, and Andalusian Traditions

Jerez de la Frontera has been the heart of sherry production since the 14th century, shaped by a rare combination of local soil, Atlantic-influenced climate, and grape varieties that exist almost nowhere else. True sherry can only be produced within the so-called sherry triangle, which holds the Denominación de Origen of Jerez y Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

The other two points of this triangle are Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María, towns defined by their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the broad sweep of the Guadalquivir River, and the gentle rise of the Cádiz Sierra mountains. Together, these conditions create the perfect environment for one of Spain’s most distinctive wines.

All sherry is made from just three white grape varieties: Palomino, Moscatel, and Pedro Ximénez. What sets it apart is the ageing process, known as solera y criaderas, where wines of different ages are gradually blended over time. Some bodegas still use solera systems that are hundreds of years old, meaning every glass contains traces of sherry from generations past.

A visit to Jerez really isn’t complete without stepping inside a bodega. Visiting a bodega and taking a guided tour followed by a tasting helps demystify sherry and shows just how varied it can be. There are seven main styles, ranging from bone-dry Fino to rich, syrupy Pedro Ximénez, which remains my personal favourite.

Beyond wine, Jerez is also one of Andalucía’s flamenco strongholds. Flamenco literally translates as “hell-raising,” and watching it performed live makes the meaning instantly clear. The dance is intense, emotional, and deeply expressive, and here it’s treated as a serious art form rather than a tourist add-on.

The Barrio de Santiago is traditionally the heart of flamenco in the city, with small clubs tucked into its narrow streets. That said, booking a live flamenco show in advance is often the easiest option. You avoid wandering in circles and secure a good seat, letting you focus entirely on the performance rather than logistics.

Our tip: Book your bodega visit for late morning or early afternoon, then leave the evening free for flamenco. Sherry tastings can be surprisingly strong, and spacing the two makes the day more enjoyable and unhurried.

Seville: Grand Sights, Street Life, and Andalusian Swagger

Seville, the capital of Andalucía, is every bit as bold and expressive as you expect it to be. Hot, passionate, noisy, and unapologetically colourful, it’s a city that wears its personality openly. After many visits, it remains our favourite place in Spain, a city that always gives more the longer you stay.

In the old town, three of Seville’s most important landmarks sit close together and form the heart of the city’s historic story. Seville Cathedral, the Giralda Tower, and the Royal Alcázar of Seville are all within easy walking distance, and visiting all three together gives a deep sense of the city’s layered past.

Seville Cathedral, officially known as Santa María de la Sede, stands on the site of the great Aljama Mosque built in the late 12th century. Only a few elements of the mosque survive, most notably the Patio de los Naranjos, the Puerta del Perdón, and the Giralda, which once served as the mosque’s minaret. Today, the cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest church overall.

Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Christopher Columbus, who set sail for the New World from nearby Huelva. Several cities, including Havana and Santo Domingo, have long claimed to hold his remains, but DNA testing has confirmed that this is indeed his final resting place. It’s a surprisingly moving detail in a building already heavy with history.

The Royal Alcázar sits just next door and is one of the most beautiful palaces in Spain. Originally an Islamic-era citadel from the 10th century, it was expanded and transformed over centuries. After the Castilian conquest in 1248, King Pedro I commissioned the richly decorated Mudéjar palaces in the 14th century, blending Islamic craftsmanship with Christian royal ambition. The result is a palace complex that feels intricate, intimate, and endlessly detailed.

A short walk south brings you to Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and set within the leafy Parque de María Luisa. With its sweeping curve, tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces, fountains, and shaded walkways, it’s a place that invites lingering. You’ll see people boating on the canal, listening to live guitar music, or simply sitting and watching the world pass.

Back near the old town, the narrow lanes of the Barrio Santa Cruz are the heart of Seville’s tapas culture. This is where Sevillanos gather, often standing at the bar with a small beer or a glass of sherry, moving slowly from place to place. You can sit if you like, but the real joy is in taking your time and letting the rhythm of the city set the pace. Just be warned, it’s very easy to lose track of how many plates you’ve ordered.

To the north, in the Centro district, Seville’s modern side comes into view with the Metropol Parasol. This vast wooden structure, often called Las Setas, is the largest of its kind in the world. From the viewing platform at the top, you get wide rooftop views across the city and a real sense of Seville’s scale and layout.

Our tip: Over 40,000 orange trees line the streets of Seville. In spring, the scent of azahar, orange blossom, fills the air. In winter, you’ll see oranges dropping onto the pavements, free for the taking. Just don’t eat one. These are bitter Seville oranges used for marmalade, and they taste exactly as sharp as you’d expect.

RELATED POST: One Day in Seville: Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Carmona and Écija: Roman Heritage on the Way to Córdoba

Leaving Seville, the drive towards Córdoba passes through an area rich in Roman history, making Carmona and Écija ideal stops to break up the journey without adding extra nights.

Carmona sits among rolling hills and olive groves and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Europe. Its most important sight lies just outside the centre: the Roman Necropolis, discovered in the 19th century. The site includes a 1st-century amphitheatre and an extensive burial ground, with tombs and family mausoleums dating from the 1st century BCE to the 2nd century CE. A small museum on site provides helpful background and makes this an easy, informative visit.

Further east, Écija offers a different but equally striking perspective on Andalucía’s past. Often called the “City of Towers,” Écija is known for its Baroque church spires, which rise above a largely flat landscape shaped by centuries of agriculture. Beneath the town lies an impressive Roman legacy, including mosaics and remains uncovered throughout the historic centre.

Écija is also one of the hottest towns in Spain, so timing matters. If you stop here, aim for earlier in the day and focus on a short walk through the centre or a visit to one of the museums before continuing on to Córdoba.

Together, Carmona and Écija add historical depth to the drive without slowing the overall route, turning a simple transfer day into a rewarding part of the journey.

Córdoba: Moorish Grandeur and Quiet Courtyards

Rich in history and Moorish architecture, Córdoba is an intimate, atmospheric city and one of the most rewarding stops on this Andalucía road trip. It’s best known for the extraordinary Mezquita, a building unlike any other in Europe.

Originally built as a mosque over a thousand years ago, the Mezquita was expanded and embellished over centuries before being consecrated as a Catholic cathedral in 1248. The result is a striking blend of Moorish and Renaissance architecture, where horseshoe arches, carved stonework, and a soaring cathedral nave coexist within the same space. It is, without question, the one place you must visit in Córdoba.

A guided Mezquita tour with skip-the-line access is well worth it to fully understand the building’s layered history. If you can, book a slot to climb the bell tower at sunset, when the views over the old town and surrounding countryside are at their most atmospheric.

Just a short walk away, the gardens of the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs offer a welcome contrast to the intensity of the Mezquita. With flowing water, tall palms, and cypress-lined paths, it’s an ideal place to slow down for an hour before continuing on foot.

From here, cross the Roman Bridge, believed to date back to the 1st or 2nd century, for one of the best views back towards the old town. The walk leads naturally into the Jewish Quarter, where narrow lanes, small squares, and whitewashed houses create some of the city’s most photogenic scenes. In summer, window boxes spill over with geraniums, softening the stone streets with colour.

Our tip: Don’t head out for dinner before 9pm. Earlier than that, restaurants are often quiet and lack atmosphere. After your meal, try a fitifiti, a local digestif made by mixing sweet dessert wine, often sherry or Montilla, with white wine. It’s a small detail, but a very Córdoba one.

RELATED POST: Córdoba in One Day: Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Antequera: Prehistoric Monuments and Andalucía’s Ancient Heart

On the drive towards Granada, Antequera makes a rewarding stop in the geographic heart of Andalucía. The town is home to more than fifty monuments and archaeological sites, and feels noticeably different from the larger cities on the route, quieter, older, and deeply rooted in the landscape.

Antequera’s most important sights lie just outside the town centre at the Antequera Dolmens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its scale and exceptional preservation. These megalithic structures are among the most significant prehistoric monuments in Europe.

The most striking is the Menga Dolmen, a vast passage tomb dating back around 6,000 years. Massive stone slabs form a corridor leading to the burial chamber, and standing inside gives a powerful sense of the engineering ambition of its builders. Nearby, the Viera Dolmen and El Romeral complete the prehistoric ensemble.

From the Dolmens site, you can look northeast to the distinctive limestone outcrop of Peña de los Enamorados, often called Lover’s Rock. Its profile resembles a reclining face, and local legend tells of two lovers from opposing cultures who fled together, were pursued to the summit, and chose to leap hand in hand rather than be separated.

Our tip: if you’re visiting in late June, try to be here on 21 June, the summer solstice. At sunrise, the sun aligns perfectly with Lover’s Rock and shines directly into the Menga Dolmen, a rare and powerful moment that links landscape, monument, and astronomy.

Granada: The Alhambra and the City Beneath It

Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is inseparable from the Alhambra and is often described as one of Spain’s most romantic cities. The palace complex sits high on a wooded hill above the city, overlooking the surrounding countryside, and remains the undisputed jewel of Andalucía.

The Alhambra is remarkable not just for its scale, but for its detail. Typical Moorish symmetry, carefully proportioned rooms, and intricate tilework run throughout the palace. The Nasrid Palaces are the highlight, with elegant courtyards, reception halls, and royal quarters that feel both intimate and grand. Beyond them, shaded gardens with running water, hidden paths, and thoughtful planting create a quieter, more sensory experience that balances the architectural splendour.

Book your Alhambra tickets and guided tour well in advance, particularly outside the winter months, as this is one of the most visited attractions in Spain. A guided tour helps make sense of the history and symbolism woven into the buildings. Alternatively, the Granada Card can be a practical option, combining advance Alhambra entry with public transport and access to several key monuments around the city.

Away from the palace, one of the most rewarding areas to explore is the medieval Albaicín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow, winding streets are made for slow wandering, with small shops, viewpoints, and unexpected quiet corners tucked between whitewashed houses.

Our tip: A good route through the Albaicín leads to Plaza de San Miguel Bajo, a leafy square that works well for a pause, before climbing further uphill beyond the old city walls to the church of San Cristóbal. From here, the view back towards the Alhambra at sunset is one of Granada’s most memorable moments, and a fitting way to end a day in the city.

Nerja and the Costa Tropical: A Coastal Finish to the Trip

If you’re following the 14-day version of this southern Spain itinerary, you’ll have time to slow the pace and end the trip by the sea. After the cities and inland landscapes of Andalucía, a few days on the coast make a fitting final chapter.

From Granada, take the scenic coastal route back towards Málaga along the Costa Tropical. The drive drops out of the mountains and follows the Mediterranean, with warmer air, open views, and a noticeably more relaxed feel.

Nerja is the most natural place to stop, with easy access to beaches, coastal walks, and a compact old town. Nearby Torre del Mar offers a different but equally appealing beach scene, with long promenades and plenty of space to settle into holiday mode.

This coastal detour works best as a gentle wind-down rather than a packed schedule, giving you time to swim, stroll, and reflect on the journey before returning to Málaga and heading home.

Our tip: Leave Granada early and take the slower coastal roads where possible rather than rushing back on the motorway. Arriving in Nerja by late morning gives you the rest of the day to enjoy the beach, while afternoons tend to be busier along the Costa Tropical.

Where to Stay on an Andalucian Road Trip

This Andalucía road trip follows a looping route, with clusters of nearby stops rather than a strict point-to-point drive. The itinerary is designed to keep daily driving times manageable, group destinations that work well together, and avoid unnecessary backtracking where possible.

Accommodation stops are chosen to match these clusters, making it easy to explore cities, coast, and countryside without changing hotels every night or doubling back on the same roads.

Day 1–2: Málaga (2–3 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Vincci Selección Posada del Patio for its five-star location in central Málaga, historic decor, and rooftop pool.

Mid-Range: Stay at Molina Lario for its four-star location in central Málaga, stylish modern design, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.

Budget: Stay at Debambú Atarazanas for its prime location beside Málaga’s vibrant market, chic modern apartments, and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

Day 3: Marbella (1 night)

Upmarket: Stay at Nobu Hotel Marbella for its exclusive adults-only vibe, world-class dining, and prime location near the beach and nightlife.

Mid-Range: Stay at Amare Beach Hotel for its prime waterfront location, sleek adult-only ambience, and a stunning rooftop bar with panoramic sea views.

Budget: Stay at Ona Alanda Club Marbella for its convenient location on the Costa del Sol, well-equipped self-catering apartments, and relaxed family-friendly vibe.

Day 4: Ronda (1-2 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Molino Del Santo for its charming riverside setting, authentic Andalusian hospitality, and convenient access to the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Mid-Range: Stay at Catalonia Ronda for its prime location near Ronda’s iconic bullring, contemporary interiors, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the dramatic Tajo Gorge.

Budget: Stay at Hotel Sierra Hidalga for its peaceful hillside location, panoramic mountain views, and easy access to Ronda’s historic sights.

Day 5: Cádiz (1-2 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Hotel Monte Puertatierra for its prime coastal setting near the beach, modern comfort, and easy walking distance to the city’s historic centre.

Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres for its exquisitely restored 18th-century architecture, boutique charm, and prime location overlooking Cádiz’s picturesque bay.

Budget: Stay at Casual con Duende for its playful, flamenco-inspired decor, comfortable rooms, and central location perfect for exploring the vibrant local scene.

Day 6: Jerez de la Frontera (1 night)

Upmarket: Stay at Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe for its unique location at the iconic Tio Pepe bodega, refined Andalusian style, and immersive wine-tasting experiences just steps from the historic city centre.

Mid-Range: Stay at Villa Jerez for its tranquil garden setting, local decor, and proximity to Jerez’s centre.

Budget: Stay at Suites Alfonso X for its central location near Jerez’s historic heart, stylish modern suites, and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

Day 7–9: Seville (2–3 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Hotel Casa Del Poeta in Seville for its atmospheric setting in the heart of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, romantic Moorish courtyards, and intimate boutique ambience.

Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Rey Alfonso X for its central location in Seville’s historic quarter, contemporary Andalusian style, and a rooftop pool offering captivating city views.

Budget: Stay at Zenit Sevilla for its riverside Triana location, stylish contemporary rooms, and a rooftop pool boasting sweeping city views.

Day 10: Córdoba (1 night)

Upmarket: Stay at Las Casas de la Judería for its authentic location in the historic Jewish Quarter, charming Andalusian courtyards, and easy walking distance to the iconic Mezquita.

Mid-Range: Stay at Balcón de Córdoba for its breathtaking rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, intimate boutique charm, and prime location just steps from the Mezquita.

Budget: Stay at La Boutique Puerta Osario for its contemporary design, cosy ambience, and a prime location within walking distance of Córdoba’s historic attractions.

Day 11: Antequera (1 night)

Upmarket: Stay at Convento la Magdalena Hotel in Torcal de Antequera Natural Park for its tranquil 16th-century convent setting, stunning mountain views, and convenient access to the park’s dramatic limestone landscapes.

Mid-Range: Stay at Parador de Antequera for its contemporary design, hillside location boasting panoramic views, and easy access to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Budget: Stay at Los Dólmenes for its proximity to Antequera’s ancient dolmens, scenic countryside views, and comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.

Day 12–13: Granada (2 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Hospes Palacio de los Patos for its artful blend of 19th-century palace grandeur and sleek modern design, indulgent spa facilities, and a prime location near Granada’s historic attractions.

Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Santa Isabel La Real for its historic Albayzín setting, authentic Andalusian charm, and breathtaking views overlooking the heart of Granada.

Budget: Stay at BiBo Suites San Agustín for its stylish modern apartments, central location, and convenient access to Granada’s main historical sites.

Day 14: Nerja (1-2 nights)

Upmarket: Stay at Parador de Nerja for its cliffside location overlooking the Mediterranean, direct beach access, and serene gardens perfect for soaking up Andalusian sunshine.

Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Riu Monica for its seafront setting, comfortable modern rooms, and an easy stroll to Nerja’s lively town centre.

Budget: Stay at Hostal Marissal for its budget-friendly rates, cosy rooms, and unbeatable location right by the iconic Balcón de Europa.

Andalucia Road Trip Resources

Getting to Andalucía and Starting Your Road Trip

Flying to Andalucía and Driving Locally

For most travellers, flying into Andalucía and picking up a vehicle on arrival is the easiest way to start a road trip. The most practical entry point is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which sits right on the coast with fast access to the motorway network and a wide choice of car hire options.

Málaga is well connected, with direct flights from across the UK, Europe, and North America. Using Skyscanner makes it easy to compare routes, schedules, and prices, especially if you’re flexible with travel dates.

Picking up a car at the airport allows you to begin the trip immediately, whether that means heading straight into Málaga city or setting off along the coast or inland. For car hire, comparison sites such as Discovercars.com are a practical choice, offering access to multiple suppliers and often better value than booking directly during peak seasons.

If you prefer a slower, more self-contained way to travel, Andalucía also works well by campervan or motorhome. Motorhome Republic aggregates vehicles from different rental agencies and offers a good range of options, which is useful if you’re planning a longer or more flexible trip.

Driving to Andalucía from the UK

Driving to Andalucía from the UK is a bigger commitment, but it can be a rewarding option if you want to turn the journey itself into part of the trip. The route usually involves crossing into France by ferry or the Channel Tunnel, then driving south through France before entering Spain via the Pyrenees.

This option works best if you have extra time and plan to stop along the way, rather than attempting the journey in one long push. It also gives you full control over your vehicle, luggage, and route, which can be appealing for longer stays or campervan travel.

Once in Spain, the drive south towards Andalucía is straightforward, with well-maintained motorways linking the north of the country to cities such as Seville, Córdoba, and Málaga. Be aware that tolls in France can add up, and fuel costs and overnight stops should be factored into your planning.

For most travellers, flying into Málaga and driving locally is the best balance of speed, flexibility, and cost. Driving from the UK suits those with more time who enjoy long-distance road travel and want the journey itself to be part of the experience.

RELATED POST: Driving to Spain from UK: Best Routes & Driving Tips

Andalucía Road Trip Tips

Andalucia Road Trip FAQs

How many days do you need for Andalucia?

A 7-day itinerary for southern Spain will allow you to get a taste of a few of the historical cities and spend a few days at the beach.

For a real flavour of the landscape, history and food, you need to spend at least 10 days in Andalucia. With a few extra days, you can also see some of Andalucia’s hidden gems and secret spots that fewer people visit, giving you a true taste of authentic Andalucia.

What is the best month to visit Andalucia?

Andalucia is best visited outside of the summer months. In June, July, and August, the temperatures are fierce and can be really uncomfortable – not the best time for a southern Spain itinerary!

Andalucia is one of the warmest places in mainland Europe in winter, although it won’t be quite warm enough for sea swimming. Evenings will be cooler, and you’ll need to pack layers if you’re planning on visiting in winter. There may be snow in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are both fantastic times to road trip Andalucia. Roads will be quieter, accommodation and flights cheaper, and you’ll still get all the atmosphere and culture of Andalucia, but with fewer people!

Spring, from March onwards, is gorgeous, with temperatures warming up and wildflowers appearing everywhere – the perfect time for a Spanish road trip!

If your plan is to hit the beach, May to July is the best time to visit, when you’ll avoid the summer heat and traffic but still have beautiful warm weather.

Fall, from September through to November, is also a perfect time for an Andalucia roadtrip in Europe’s winter sun, with the warmth from summer lingering into autumn, but with quieter roads and cities.

Driving in Andalucia

Car travel in Spain is easy, with a good network of autovias (A) and autopistas (AP). The latter were toll roads until 2020 when many (but not all) became toll-free.

Car rental, fuel, and parking are some of the cheapest in Europe, making Spain a really cost-effective place to take a road trip. 

Touring Spain by car in rural and mountainous areas can take longer than you think, although the standard of non-motorway roads in rural areas is generally good. Allow time to get off the beaten track and experience the real Spain on your Andalusia road trip.

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle to Spain or you’re in a rental car, follow our driving in Spain tips:

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

More Spain Road Trips to Explore

Love it? Pin it!