Hola! Welcome to Southern Spain, a region full of sunshine, character, color, and stunning cities that beautifully blend history, culture, and coastal charm. From Moorish marvels and ancient alleyways to sun-soaked coastlines and bustling plazas, each city has its own unique story to tell. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or crafting a full Andalusia itinerary, this list of our favorite cities in southern Spain for sure will inspire you with some of the most captivating gems.
Until today, we’ve lived in Southern Spain for almost a year in various places near Malaga, Almeria, and Cadiz. And it quickly became one of our favorite regions in Spain! We’ve explored quite a lot of places and got to know the area pretty well. Ready to dive in? Vamos, let us help you plan your Southern Spain adventure!
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What’s the best time to visit Southern Spain?
In Southern Spain, you’ll experience a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. We think the best time to visit is spring or early autumn – the weather is warm and sunny, there are fewer crowds, and the prices are a bit lower.
Summer months can be extremely hot with temperatures often reaching 40°C, and with a lot of people around. If you prefer a quieter visit and lower temperatures (but still a lot of sun), around 15-20°C, you’ll be happy to visit during winter.
TOP10 Cities in Southern Spain
Malaga
Malaga is one of the most popular cities in Southern Spain. It’s a place where rich history, a vibrant culinary scene, good weather, world-class museums, sandy beaches, and a lively atmosphere come together perfectly. Malaga is an amazing coastal getaway any time of the year – no wonder so many travelers love this city!
The city is best known for being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and home to some of his works, holiday-perfect beaches, one of the largest Arab fortresses in Andalusia, striking views over the surroundings, and a food scene full of fresh seafood and tapas. There is definitely no shortage of things to do in Malaga’s old town!
Don’t miss this in Malaga: Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, Roman Theatre, Picasso Museum, Cathedral, and Malaga seaside promenade. Also, be sure to spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, like Malagueta Beach or Playa de la Misericordia.
How many days are enough for Malaga?
You can discover all the main landmarks in Malaga in 1 or 2 days, although if you want to get to know it better, we recommend staying for at least 3 days. Malaga can also be a great home base for longer stays to slowly discover the Province of Malaga and its surroundings.
Almeria
Almeria offers a wonderful mix of a big city with many attractions, combined with a chilled vibe pulled straight from smaller Spanish towns. It’s a peaceful destination, without a huge number of tourists, where you can enjoy its charms in peace. With over 3000 hours of sunshine per year and very little rain, Almeria is a real paradise for those looking for sun, regardless of the time of the year!
The city is best known for its impressive Alcazaba, a unique-looking cathedral, a charming old town, and tranquil beaches. Whether you are into history, architecture, food, outdoor activities, or just lying on the beach, you’ll find something for yourself here. Almeria is definitely one of the best cities in Southern Spain to visit.
Don’t miss this in Almeria: Alcazaba of Almeria, San Cristobal Hill, Cathedral, La Rambla, Almeria seaside promenade, and El Cable Ingles. Also, be sure to spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, like Playa de San Miguel and Playa del Zapillo.
How many days are enough for Almeria?
You can easily discover all the main landmarks in Almeria in 1 day, although if you want to get to know it better, we recommend staying for at least 2-3 days. Almeria can also be a great home base for longer stays to slowly discover the Province of Almeria and its surroundings.
Cordoba
Cordoba is one of the most extraordinary cities in Southern Spain, which quickly stole our hearts. Once it was the capital of Islamic Spain, and now it is a place where history, culture, and stunning architecture blend perfectly. In Cordoba, you’ll explore the picturesque old town, admire one of the most remarkable landmarks in the country (which alone makes it worth the trip!), taste local specialties, and visit flower-filled patios.
Don’t miss this in Cordoba: Mosque-Cathedral, Bell Tower, Jewish Quarter, Calleja de las Flores street, Roman Bridge, Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, and flower courtyards.
How many days are enough for Cordoba?
Cordoba is a perfect destination for a day trip, for example, from Malaga or Seville. One day is enough to see most of the main landmarks and get a good feel of what this city is all about. But it’s not enough to see all the attractions – so if you want to experience the city better, we recommend staying 2 or 3 days.
Cadiz
Cadiz is one of the oldest and most continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe – it’s more than 3000 years old! It’s located on a narrow slice of land, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Today, Cadiz charms visitors with its relaxed coastal vibe, golden beaches, and interesting history. This interesting city in Southern Spain offers a perfect mix of culture and chill – think impressive monuments, picturesque plazas and streets, ocean views, and fresh seafood on the beach!
Don’t miss this in Cadiz: Cathedral, Roman Theatre, Plaza de San Juan de Dios, San Sebastian Castle, Santa Catalina Castle, Plaza de las Flores, and Earth’s Gate. Also, be sure to spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, like Playa La Caleta or Playa de la Victoria.
How many days are enough for Cadiz?
During one day, without rushing, you’ll be able to see all the main attractions and even spend some time on the beach. But if you want to know Cadiz even better, we recommend staying for at least 3 days. Cadiz can also be a great home base for longer stays to slowly discover the Province of Cadiz and its surroundings.
Granada
Granada is a picturesque city in Southern Spain where history comes to life at its best. Iconic last Moorish stronghold in Spain, a ravishing mix of cultures that intertwine perfectly with each other, winding streets of the old town, magnificent views, hypnotizing Flamenco shows… No wonder that Granada is one of the most visited destinations in Spain!
Don’t miss this in Granada: Alhambra, viewpoints: Mirador de San Nicolas and Mirador de San Cristobal, Albaicin and Sacromonte neighborhoods, Alcaiceria Market, and Cathedral.
How many days are enough for Granada?
Granada is a great destination for a day trip, for example, from Malaga or Almeria. One day is enough to see most of the main landmarks and get a good feel of what this city is all about. But it’s not enough to see all the attractions – so if you want to experience Granada better, we recommend staying 2 or 3 days.
Discover more beautiful places in Southern Spain ❤️
Estepona
Estepona is one of the most colorful cities in Southern Spain. It’s an underrated gem, offering a quieter, more authentic alternative to its popular neighbors. In Estepona, you’ll find a charming old town with a maze of whitewashed streets decorated with vibrant flower pots, many interesting street art, and sandy holiday-perfect beaches. It’s a perfect place to slow down for a moment and soak up the Andalusian vibe.
Don’t miss this in Estepona: Plaza de las Flores Square, Plaza del Reloj with Clock Tower, Church of Our Lady of the Remedies, Ruins of Castillo de San Luis, Orchid House, and Ruta de los Murales Artísticos. Also, be sure to spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, like Playa de la Rada or Playa del Cristo.
How many days are enough for Estepona?
Estepona is a great destination for a day trip, for example from Malaga, but also for longer holiday stays. One day is enough to see most of the main landmarks and get a good feel of what this city is all about. If you want to experience the city better, we recommend staying at least 2 days.
Guadix
Guadix, one of the most unique places you’ll see in your entire life. And as for now, an Andalusian hidden gem and off-beaten track destination. What’s waiting for you there? Desert Hobbiton with hundreds of troglodytes living underground in cave houses, a charming old town with an amazing vibe, and out-of-this-world landscapes with snow-capped mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada in the back. All of that will make you wonder if you’re still on planet Earth!
Don’t miss this in Guadix: Cave Houses Neighbourhood, Cave Interpretation Center, Parish Church of Our Lady of Grace, Mirador Padre Poveda, Mirador del Cerro de la Bala, Alcazaba, Cathedral, Plaza de la Constitución, Mirador de la Magdalena. Near Guadix, we also recommend visiting Calahorra Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Andalusia.
How many days are enough for Guadix?
Guadix is a great destination for a one-day trip from cities like Almeria or Granada, but also a place where you can stay longer and immerse yourself in the unique cave-living experience. One day is enough to see most of the main landmarks and get a good feel of what this city is all about. If you want to experience the city more, we recommend staying at least 2-3 days.
Antequera
Antequera is one of Southern Spain’s most underrated historic treasures, not well-known to many tourists. It’s located at a higher altitude of 575m and is surrounded by a beautiful mountainous landscape. Antequera offers a perfect mix of rich heritage, scenic views, and authentic Andalusian charm.
There you’ll explore Alcazaba, admiring striking views, wander through the peaceful old town, and visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Antequera is one of the most wonderful cities in southern Spain, ideal for travelers who love history, nature, and a quieter, more local experience.
Don’t miss this in Antequera: Alcazaba, Royal Collegiate of Santa Maria, Mirador de las Almenillas, Parroquia San Sebastián, Plaza Coso Viejo, Antequera Dolmens Site, Lovers Rock – La Peña de los Enamorados, and nearby El Torcal de Antequera.
How many days are enough for Antequera?
Antequera is a great destination for a day trip, for example, from Malaga, Granada, or Cordoba. One day is enough to see most of the main city landmarks and get a good feel of what this city is all about. If you want to experience the city better, as well as visit its surroundings like El Torcal, we recommend staying at least 2 days.
Ronda
Ronda is one of the most picturesque cities in Southern Spain, dramatically perched on the edge of a deep gorge that splits the town in two. The iconic Puente Nuevo bridge offers stunning views over the El Tajo canyon and connects the historic and new parts of the town. Beyond the scenery, Ronda will charm you with its charming streets, Moorish architecture, and one of the oldest bullrings in Spain (after all, it’s a place considered the birthplace of bullfighting!).
Don’t miss in Ronda: Puente Nuevo bridge, viewpoints: Mirador de Ronda and Mirador de Aldehuela, Arab Baths, Walls of Ronda, Cuenca Gardens, House of the Moorish King, and bullring.
How many days are enough for Ronda?
Ronda is a perfect destination for day trips, relaxing weekends, or a few-day getaways. One day is enough to see all the town highlights. If you want to know Ronda even better and soak up its charm, we recommend staying for at least 3 days.
Marbella
Marbella is one of the most popular and luxurious travel destinations in Andalusia. The city is most famous for its vivid nightlife scene with many nightclubs and bars, beautiful sandy beaches, an enchanting old town, delicious food, as well as quiet parks, golf courses, and luxury shopping. Also, thanks to the Mediterranean climate with warm summers, mild winters, and lots of sunshine, it’s a great destination all year round. Marbella offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement and has something to captivate every traveler.
Don’t miss in Marbella: Old Town, Plaza de los Naranjos square, Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation, Ruins of a Moorish Castle, Ermita del Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz, Alameda Park, Boulevard Avenida del Mar, Puerto Banus, and King Abdul Aziz Mosque. Also, be sure to spend some time on one of the lovely beaches, like Playa Venus or Playa de la Fontanilla.
How many days are enough for Marbella?
Marbella is a great destination for a day trip from Malaga, a weekend getaway, and a longer holiday stay on the Costa del Sol. Without rushing, you’ll manage to see most of Marbella’s main attractions in one day. But if you want to get to know the city even better, or you’re up to some parties or enjoying a luxurious life to the fullest, we recommend staying at least 3 days.
Cities in Southern Spain – Summing up
And there you have it, some of the most captivating cities in Southern Spain, each offering a unique glimpse into the soul of Andalusia. Whether you’re drawn to Moorish palaces, whitewashed streets, golden beaches, or charming hidden gems, we hope you’re now one step closer to choosing the perfect cities to explore. So pack your bags and let Southern Spain amaze you. Enjoy!
