From its rich culture and Moorish heritage to its incredible food and sun-soaked landscapes, Andalusia is the perfect destination for a week-long getaway. This region in southern Spain captures everything that makes the country so captivating from historic cities and whitewashed villages to dramatic mountain scenery and golden Mediterranean coastlines.
With so many towns and experiences to choose from, planning can feel overwhelming, so here’s a 1 week Andalusia itinerary designed to help you make the most of your seven days, balancing iconic highlights with local charm, scenic drives, and plenty of time to soak up the relaxed Andalusian lifestyle.
Map of Andalusia and Getting Around Southern Spain
Andalusia is a region of Southern Spain that includes the cities of Málaga, Sevilla, Granada, Cadiz and many more towns and villages, as well as the Costa del Sol region. The best way to get around, is with a hire car due to the abundance of small hillside villages to explore and good driving infrastructure.
NOTE: Most places on this itinerary don’t allow cars within the old towns. This means you may have to park outside this region and walk to your hotel with your luggage.
1 Week Andalusia Itinerary – Day by Day
Day 1: Malaga and Surrounding Villages
Arrive at Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport and pick up your hire car. Spend the morning exploring Málaga’s Old Town, wandering its cobbled streets and visiting highlights like the Alcazaba fortress, Picasso Museum, and Plaza de la Merced. Stop at a local café for coffee and tapas before heading out to explore the nearby villages.
In the afternoon, drive to Benalmádena Pueblo to see the fairytale-like Castillo de Colomares, or visit Mijas Pueblo, a whitewashed hillside village with beautiful sea views. If time allows, continue to Frigiliana, one of Andalusia’s prettiest pueblos blancos, known for its blue-trimmed houses and artisan shops.
In the evening, drive inland toward Granada (around 2 hours), check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxed tapas dinner before resting up for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2 – 3: Granada
Granada is a laid back city with so much to see and do. Spend the first day exploring the Alhambra, a breath-taking palace and fortress complex that tells the story of Granada’s rich Islamic past. Wander through its intricate courtyards, lush gardens, and ornate halls, and take time to appreciate the views over the city below.
Top Tip: Book tickets for the Alhambra in advance and head up early to avoid the crowds. Your ticket for the main complex is valid all day so you can leave for lunch and re-enter if you want to keep exploring.
In the afternoon, head into the Albaicín, Granada’s oldest neighbourhood and a maze of narrow, whitewashed lanes filled with charm. Spend the evening on a tapas crawl, hopping between local bars and sampling the city’s famous free tapas tradition where every drink comes with a small plate of something delicious.
On your second day, take it easy and soak in Granada’s slower pace. Stroll along the Carrera del Darro, one of the prettiest streets in Spain, lined with historic buildings and views of the Alhambra above. In the late afternoon, make your way to one of the bars near Mirador de San Nicolás for a stunning sunset view over the Alhambra, with the Sierra Nevada mountains glowing in the distance.
Finish the night with an intimate flamenco performance in Sacromonte, the city’s traditional Roma quarter, where cave dance halls are carved into the hillside.
Day 4: Córdoba
Leave for Córdoba early in the morning to make the most of your day in this historic city. Start with a visit to the Mezquita-Catedral, a magnificent former mosque turned cathedral, famous for its red-and-white arches and blend of Islamic and Christian architecture.
After you’ve finished exploring, wander through the Judería, Córdoba’s charming old Jewish Quarter, filled with narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled patios. Stop for lunch at a local tapas bar and try salmorejo, the city’s signature dish.
In the afternoon, stroll across the Roman Bridge or relax by the Guadalquivir River, then enjoy a relaxed dinner in the historic centre before settling in for the night.
Day 5 – 6: Seville
Drive to Seville the next morning, one of Andalusia’s most vibrant and romantic cities. Once you arrive, head straight to the magnificent Real Alcázar, a royal palace known for its stunning Mudejar architecture, intricate tilework, and lush gardens that feel like something out of a fairytale. The palace is still used by the Spanish royal family when they visit the city, so if it’s good enough for them!
Top Tip: Tickets to the Alcázar do sell out, even in low season so make sure you book in advance!
After your visit, head to the iconic Las Setas de Sevilla (also known as Metropol Parasol). This striking wooden structure offers panoramic views of the city and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset as the rooftops glow golden. When evening falls, explore the lively bars and restaurants nearby for a relaxed tapas dinner filled with Andalusian flavours or opt to take a food tour with a local to learn more about traditional eats.
The next morning, start early at Plaza de España, Seville’s most iconic landmark. With its sweeping arches, tiled alcoves, and peaceful canal, it’s even more magical before the crowds arrive. From there, walk to the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, to learn about the history and cultural significance of bullfighting in the region.
Spend the afternoon wandering through Seville’s historic centre. Pass by the grand Seville Cathedral and admire the Giralda Tower, once a minaret, now a symbol of the city. End your day in the Alfalfa neighbourhood, a lively area full of charming tapas bars and local restaurants, perfect for another delicious Andalusian dinner and a glass of local sherry to toast your time in Seville.
Day 7: Ronda
Leave Seville in the morning and enjoy the scenic drive through Andalusia’s rolling hills to the stunning mountaintop town of Ronda. Famous for its dramatic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda offers some of the most breath-taking views in southern Spain.
Take one of the trails leading down the gorge for the best vantage point of the bridge, then spend some time wandering Ronda’s charming old town, with its cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings. After a relaxed lunch with a view, begin your drive to the airport for your flight home; the perfect end to your 1 week Andalusian adventure.
The Best Time To Visit Andalusia
Thanks to its mild climate year-round, Andalusia is a great destination in any season. However, the shoulder months of March to May and September to October are especially ideal — the weather is warm but comfortable, the crowds are thinner, and you’ll have more flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor dining, sightseeing, and long evening strolls through the cities.
If you don’t mind a busier atmosphere, summer brings guaranteed sunshine and long days, with temperatures climbing into the high 30s°C.
While winter may not deliver the cosy, festive charm of northern Europe, several cities, including Seville, Málaga, and Granada, host charming Christmas markets, offering a quieter yet unique time to visit.
The Best Activities in Andalusia
Have you ever been to Andalusia? What else would you recommend?
