This time, we set our sights on Andalusia, a sunny gem in southern Spain. Staying true to our tradition of welcoming the New Year in Europe, we picked a place with warmer vibes and plenty of charm. Andalusia gave us exactly that – pleasant weather, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, making it a perfect escape.
Our 10-day adventure was filled with vibrant cities, breathtaking nature, and family-friendly activities. From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying plant-based dishes in cozy spots, this journey had something for everyone. Andalusia proved to be an ideal destination for unwinding and discovering new places, all while soaking in some much-needed sunshine.
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Quick Peek
We started our Andalusia adventure by flying into Malaga, renting a car, and splitting our 10-day trip between three amazing stops: Nerja, Seville and Malaga. This mix gave us the perfect balance of city vibes, coastal charm, and cultural highlights. December turned out to be an excellent choice, with mild weather, sunshine, and even a touch of festive magic.
Travel Time
Dec./Jan.
Travel Mode
Journey (10 days)
Our Must-Sees
Plaza de Espana, Frigiliana
Where to stay
MB Boutique Hotel, Melia Seville
Plant-Based Food
El Enano, MIMO
Mobility
Rental car
Travel Budget
around €3.570
without air /ferry fare
Top Andalusia Highlights: Our Must-See Spots for Every Traveler
We may have only had 14 days, but we made the most of it by circling this gorgeous island a few times (it’s not that big, after all!). Here are our absolute must-see spots that made our trip unforgettable:
Nerja (5 days)
Nerja was our first stop, and it didn’t disappoint. This charming coastal town has a relaxed vibe and stunning sea views. The Balcony of Europe was a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. It’s the kind of spot that’s impossible not to photograph! From Nerja, we explored nearby gems like Frigiliana, a picturesque white village with winding streets and colorful flower pots. Both places are not just must-sees but also Instagram favorites, which we’ve listed in detail further down in the article. Another highlight was simply wandering through Nerja itself – a town that’s small enough to feel cozy but big enough to keep things interesting.
Seville (3 days)
Seville was easily one of the best places in Andalusia we visited. The city combines history, charm, and stunning sights that make it a must-see destination. The Plaza de España was a standout highlight with its impressive architecture, colorful ceramic tiles, and peaceful canal. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in Andalusia and a great place to relax and take photos. We also loved the Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Climbing the Giralda Tower gave us amazing views of the city, making it well worth the effort. Another favorite was exploring the Santa Cruz neighborhood, with its narrow streets and cozy courtyards.
Malaga (2 days)
We began and ended our Andalusia trip in Malaga, a city that definitely deserves its place among the best places in Andalusia. With its lively atmosphere and mix of modern and historic charm, Malaga was a great way to bookend our journey. One of our favorite activities was strolling along the waterfront promenade, which offers beautiful views of the harbor and plenty of spots to stop for a coffee. Just behind it, the Palmeral de las Sorpresas, a park lined with palm trees, provided a peaceful escape. The Old Town was another highlight, especially during Christmas. The festive lights turned the narrow streets into a magical experience, making evening walks feel extra special. Malaga’s charm and relaxed vibe made it a great start and finish to our Andalusian adventure.
Our stays in Andalusia – Rest, Relax, Recharge
MB Boutique Hotel
In Nerja, we stayed at the MB Boutique Hotel, which, as the name suggests, is a small, stylish boutique hotel. What really caught our attention was an unexpected and clever feature: a digital water meter in the room. It showed how much water we used during showers and other activities. As sustainability enthusiasts, we found this detail incredibly valuable. Of course, making a real impact requires bigger steps, but every bit of awareness helps – and we appreciated the effort.
The hotel also won us over with its amazing rooftop terrace. Nearly every day after breakfast, we spent a few hours soaking up the December sun. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful vibe of Nerja before heading out to explore. This combination of thoughtful details and a great atmosphere made the MB Boutique Hotel a highlight of our stay.
Meliá Seville
In Seville, we stayed at the Meliá Seville, and it turned out to be the perfect choice for exploring the city. From the hotel, we could easily walk to the Old Town and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful city. The hotel also featured a stunning rooftop terrace, which quickly became one of our favorite spots to unwind after a day of sightseeing. As with every Meliá property we’ve visited (including our stay in Bali), cleanliness and attention to detail were top-notch. The Meliá Seville upheld the high standards we’ve come to expect, making our visit to Seville even more enjoyable.
Our Plant-Based Food Journey Through Andalusia
Finding good plant-based options in Andalusia was made so much easier with the help of the HappyCow app. When nothing vegan-friendly popped up on its own, it always came to the rescue.
El Enano Verde (Seville)
This place really won us over. The wok-fried veggies in sesame sauce were packed with flavor, and the lemongrass and asparagus risotto was simply amazing. It’s a small, cozy spot that knows how to nail plant-based dishes.
Vegani (Seville)
Located in the heart of Seville, Vegani Sevilla quickly became one of our favorite vegan spots in Andalusia. This cozy eatery stands out for its creative and flavorful menu, featuring dishes like mushroom croquettes, jackfruit tacos, and a variety of hearty bowls. Each dish is beautifully presented and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, which really enhances the flavors. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, with friendly staff who are happy to offer recommendations. We especially loved their dessert options – don’t miss the vegan cheesecake if it’s available! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Vegani Sevilla is the perfect place to recharge after a day of exploring Seville. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking plant-based food in one of the best places in Andalusia.
MIMO Vegan Bistro (Malaga)
During our time in Málaga, we discovered MIMO Vegan Bistro, a fantastic spot for plant-based dining. Their menu offers a variety of flavorful dishes, from hearty burgers to fresh salads, all crafted with care. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a memorable dining experience.
The Best Ways to Travel Through Andalusia
Getting around to see the best places in Andalusia was easier than we expected, thanks to some planning and a mix of transportation options.
By Car:
Renting a car was the best way to explore the best places in Andalusia at our own pace. The roads are in great condition, and driving between Malaga, Nerja, and Seville was easy and enjoyable. But be aware: traffic fines in Spain can be higher than in many other countries. For example, using your phone while driving could cost you up to €200, and not wearing a seatbelt can result in fines for every unbuckled passenger. Parking was usually manageable, especially outside busy city centers.
By Walking:
Walking is ideal for exploring cities like Seville and Malaga, and it’s honestly one of the best ways to experience the best places in Andalusia. These cities aren’t too big, which makes them perfect for getting around on foot without feeling overwhelmed. Both have extensive pedestrian zones, so you can wander without worrying about traffic. In Malaga, strolling along the waterfront promenade or through the palm-lined parks is a real treat. The Old Town is compact and packed with shops, cafes, and historic landmarks, all within easy walking distance. Seville is equally walker-friendly, with its cobblestone streets and charming neighborhoods like Santa Cruz. Many of the city’s highlights, like the Plaza de España and Seville Cathedral, are just a short walk from each other.
Public Transport:
Spain’s public transport, especially buses and trains, is a great option for reaching larger cities. If you’re skipping the car, it’s still possible to visit many of the best places in Andalusia with a bit of route planning.
Andalusia on a Budget: What We Spent for 10 Day
Accomodation
MB Boutique 5 nights = €700
Melia Seville 3 nights = €780
Melia Costa del Sol 2 nights = €300
Food & Dining
Dining incl. NewYear €890
Mobility
Rental car SIXT = €650
Fuel and Parking
around €250
Activities
We enjoyed Andalusia
for free!
Total Spent
around €3.570
without air/ferry fare
Snap Away! Andalusia’s Top Photo Gems
Frigiliana
GPS Coordinates: 36.7921° N, 3.8947° W
Frigiliana is easily one of the best places in Andalusia, and it’s just a short drive from Nerja, making it a perfect day trip. This whitewashed village feels like something out of a storybook, with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful flower pots, and incredible views of the countryside. We spent a wonderful day wandering through the charming alleys and exploring the old Moorish quarter, which is full of history and stunning photo spots. Don’t miss the iconic blue doors and ceramic mosaics that make this village so unique. For the best experience, visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and capture Frigiliana’s beauty without the crowds. It’s a must-see if you’re exploring Andalusia!
Plaza de España
GPS Coordinates: 37.3773° N, 5.9861° W
The Plaza de España in Seville is hands down one of the best places in Andalusia for stunning photos. This grand square is famous for its impressive architecture, colorful tile work, and a peaceful canal where you can rent rowboats for unique shots. We spent a few hours here, snapping photos and taking in the details of the semicircular building – it’s just that photogenic! While early morning or late afternoon offers great lighting, this spot is beautiful at any time of day, so it’s worth a visit whenever you can fit it in. The reflections in the water, combined with the plaza’s charm and grandeur, make it an absolute must-see for photographers and travelers alike.
Presa de Béznar Reservoir
GPS Coordinates: 36.9248° N, 3.5155° W
We stumbled upon the Presa de Béznar Reservoir while driving through the Lecrín Valley on our way to Seville, and it was a lucky find! Surrounded by rolling hills and striking turquoise waters, this peaceful spot is perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking to capture Andalusia’s natural beauty. The still water creates stunning reflections of the mountains, making it a dream for photographers. For the best views, stop by in the early morning for a serene vibe or in the afternoon when the sunlight enhances the vibrant colors. It’s a hidden gem that shows just how many surprises the best places in Andalusia have to offer.
Balcón de Europa (Nerja)
GPS Coordinates: 36.7479° N, 3.8767° W
The Balcón de Europa in Nerja is one of the best places in Andalusia for breathtaking coastal views. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, this iconic viewpoint is a must-visit spot that’s perfect for photos or simply enjoying the sea breeze. We spent a good amount of time here, soaking in the stunning scenery and snapping pictures of the rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. The area is surrounded by palm trees and benches, making it a great place to relax or take a break from exploring. While sunset offers especially magical lighting, the Balcón de Europa is beautiful at any time of day. Whether you’re capturing photos, enjoying a stroll, or just taking in the view, this spot truly showcases the natural beauty of Andalusia.
FAQs About Traveling to Andalusia: All You Need to Know
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for mild temperatures and fewer crowds. However, we explored Andalusia in December over New Year’s Eve and found it to be a fantastic time to visit. The weather was mild with plenty of sunshine, and the festive decorations in cities like Malaga and Seville added a magical touch to the experience.
To truly experience the best places in Andalusia, plan for at least 10-14 days. This will give you enough time to explore major cities like Seville, Granada, Malaga, and Cordoba, as well as smaller gems like Ronda, the white villages, or even Cádiz. With limited time, we focused on three main stops – Malaga, Nerja, and Seville – but we missed incredible spots like Cordoba’s Mezquita and the coastal beauty of the Costa de la Luz. As always, the more time you have, the better your Andalusian adventure will be!
While basic Spanish is helpful, you’ll find that many people in tourist areas speak English. A translation app can also come in handy for smaller towns.
If you’re from the EU, USA, Canada, or many other countries, you can enter Spain without a visa for up to 90 days. However, starting in 2024, non-EU travelers may need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization before visiting.
Yes, Andalusia offers incredible hiking opportunities. Try the Caminito del Rey for a thrilling cliffside trail or the Sierra Nevada for more rugged mountain hikes.
Plenty! The Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita in Córdoba, and the historic center of Seville are just a few examples.
Yes, Gibraltar is just a short drive or bus ride from the Costa del Sol. Don’t forget your passport, as it’s a British territory.
While Andalusia is known for its sunny weather, you can find snow in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, especially during winter. It’s home to one of Europe’s southernmost ski resorts, making it possible to combine a beach trip with some winter sports.
In Spain, people eat on a different schedule compared to many other countries. Lunch, the main meal of the day, is typically between 2-3 PM, and dinner is often after 9 PM. Many restaurants offer a menu del día (daily menu) for lunch, which is an affordable and delicious way to experience local cuisine.
Yes, tap water in Andalusia is safe to drink, but some people may find it tastes different due to the minerals.
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