Andalusia, Spain (Malaga, Seville, Cordoba) 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Malaga

Arrive at Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) from Toronto (YYZ), pick up your rental car, and drive to your accommodation.

Settle in and prepare for your Andalusian adventure.

Ensure your rental car booking accommodates 3 people and luggage. Familiarize yourself with local driving rules.

Malaga Monuments Tour

Embark on a private walking tour of Malaga's main monuments, including the Alcazaba fortress, to understand their history and stories with an experienced guide.

This private tour offers a deep dive into Malaga's heritage. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Malaga/Malaga-City-Private-Walking-Tour-including-Alcazaba-Fortress/d956-7525P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Malaga Cathedral Visit

Visit the Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación de Málaga, often called 'La Manquita' (the one-armed lady) due to its unfinished second tower.

Admire its Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

Check for closing times. Generally open until early evening. Price varies for entry.

Dinner in Historic Center

Enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine at a restaurant in Malaga's bustling historic center.

Explore the lively streets after dark.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching. Try local specialties like espetos (sardines on a skewer) or fried fish.

Malaga Market & Tapas Tour

Immerse yourselves in Malaga's culinary scene with a Market and Tapas Food Tour.

Explore local markets, taste traditional sweets, and enjoy tapas.

A delicious way to experience Malaga's culture. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Malaga/The-Malaga-Morning-Food-Tour/d956-189885P5?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch near the Market

Enjoy a casual lunch near Mercado de Atarazanas, perhaps with some fresh seafood or more tapas.

Scenic Drive to Seville

Drive your rental car from Malaga to Seville.

The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering views of the Andalusian countryside. Check into your accommodation in Seville.

Utilize GPS for navigation. Consider stopping at a scenic viewpoint along the way if time permits. Parking can be challenging and expensive in Seville's city center; choose accommodation with parking or research public parking garages.

Explore Triana Neighborhood

Cross the Triana Bridge to explore Seville's vibrant Triana district, known for its ceramic workshops, flamenco artists, and lively atmosphere.

Enjoy dinner along the Guadalquivir River.

This historic neighborhood is perfect for an evening stroll and offers many authentic tapas bars.

Seville Cathedral & Giralda

Visit the world's largest Gothic cathedral and climb the Giralda bell tower for panoramic views of Seville.

Home to Christopher Columbus's tomb.

Book tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially on a Saturday. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the Giralda ramp.

Real Alcázar of Seville

Explore the stunning royal palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its intricate Mudejar architecture, beautiful courtyards, and lush gardens.

Pre-book tickets online for a specific time slot well in advance to avoid long queues, particularly on a Saturday. Combined tickets with the Cathedral are often available.

Lunch in Santa Cruz Quarter

Enjoy lunch in the charming Santa Cruz quarter, with its narrow streets and hidden squares, right next to the Cathedral and Alcázar.

Plaza de España & Park

Visit the magnificent Plaza de España, a grand semi-circular building with canals and bridges, situated within the beautiful Parque de María Luisa.

Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a rowboat.

A perfect spot for photos and relaxation. The architecture features vibrant ceramic tiles representing different provinces of Spain.

Authentic Flamenco Show

Experience the passion and intensity of an authentic flamenco performance, a traditional Spanish art form of song, dance, and guitar.

Book tickets in advance. Many shows include an optional drink or dinner. It's recommended to choose a tablao for a more intimate experience.

Drive to Cordoba

Depart Seville and take a scenic drive to Cordoba in your rental car.

The journey is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Check into your accommodation upon arrival.

Parking can be challenging in Cordoba's historic center. Look for hotels with parking or public garages outside the old town.

Explore Jewish Quarter

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Cordoba's historic Jewish Quarter (Juderia), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover hidden patios and charming alleys.

Visit the Cordoba Synagogue, one of only three remaining in Spain after the expulsion of Jews in 1492. Entrance fees vary.

Lunch in the Juderia

Enjoy a traditional Cordoban lunch in the Jewish Quarter.

Try salmorejo (a thicker gazpacho) or flamenquín (fried pork roll).

Cordoba Roman Bridge

Stroll across the ancient Roman Bridge of Cordoba, offering stunning views of the Mezquita and the Guadalquivir River. It's particularly beautiful at sunset.

Popular spot for photos. Free to walk across.

Cordoba's Patios

Discover Cordoba's famous Patios (courtyards).

While the festival is in May, many patios are open year-round for visitors to admire their floral displays and unique architecture.

Look for signs indicating 'Patio Abierto' (Open Patio). Some may have a small entrance fee.

Dinner in Cordoba

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Cordoba, sampling more of the local gastronomy.

Mezquita-Cathedral de Cordoba

Explore the Mezquita-Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a breathtaking blend of Islamic mosque and Catholic cathedral architecture.

A truly unique experience.

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on a Monday. Book tickets online in advance. Price varies.

Explore Historic Center

Continue exploring the Centro Histórico de Cordoba, taking in more of the charming streets and architecture around the Mezquita.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a final leisurely lunch in Cordoba before your afternoon plans.

Hammam Al Andalus Baños Árabes

Indulge in a relaxing experience at Hammam Al Andalus Baños Árabes, traditional Arab baths located near the Mezquita.

Enjoy a bath and a massage to unwind.

Booking required in advance, especially for specific time slots. Price varies.

Evening at Leisure in Cordoba

Enjoy a free evening in Cordoba.

You might revisit a favorite spot, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax at a cafe.

Alhambra & Generalife

Immerse yourselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a pinnacle of Moorish art and architecture.

Explore the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife gardens, and the Alcazaba fortress. Allow ample time to wander and soak in the history.

Book tickets online well in advance (3-4 months if possible) as entry is timed and often sells out. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.

Albaicín Exploration & Lunch

After the Alhambra, stroll through the charming, narrow streets of the Albaicín, Granada's old Moorish quarter. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant offering stunning views of the Alhambra.

Many restaurants in the Albaicín offer outdoor seating with panoramic views, perfect for a memorable last meal in Andalusia. Try some local tapas!

Granada Cathedral Visit

Visit the impressive Granada Cathedral, a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture commissioned by Queen Isabella.

Its grand scale and intricate design are captivating.

Check opening hours as they can vary. The Royal Chapel, where Ferdinand and Isabella are buried, is adjacent to the cathedral.

Scenic Drive to Malaga Airport & Rental Car Return

Enjoy a final scenic drive through the Andalusian landscape as you head back towards Malaga Airport (AGP).

Allow ample time for the drive and for returning your rental car.

Ensure you refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges. Confirm the exact return location with your rental company.

Airport Check-in and Security

Proceed with check-in and security procedures at Malaga Airport (AGP) for your international flight back to Toronto.