Andalusia

Discover Al-Andalus

The Autonomous Community of Andalusia, in southern Spain, is famous for its intriguing history and lifestyle. Towns are always bustling with life and you'll love exploring its picturesque coastline and whitewashed villages.

Andalusia was under Islamic rule for almost eight centuries, leading to the golden age of Al-Ándalus. Some of the most beautiful and significant buildings in the world, such as the Great Mosque-Cathedral in Cordoba, the Giralda in Seville and the Alhambra in Granada, are well worth a visit, while the beaches of Malaga, Cadiz and Almeria, the province of Huelva and the monumental sites of Ubeda and Baeza in Jaen all deserve mention.

MUST-SEE

Flamenco show © Luis Castilla

Flamenco shows
Did you know that UNESCO has declared flamenco as Intangible Cultural Heritage? This unique form of Spanish song and dance was born in Andalusia. A performance in a traditional tablao is well worth seeing. Every Andalusian city has at least one.
Equestrian culture is widespread at the main fairs in the region. There are institutions such as the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez which are dedicated to the preservation of this art. Another important event is the flamenco music show at the Royal Stables in Cordoba.
Food
You won't be disappointed by the Andalusian cuisine either. It still owes much to the Arab dishes of Al-Andalus, based on vegetables, fruit, fish and exquisite virgin olive oil. Salmorejo, potatoes with cuttlefish, sardine skewers, shrimp omelette and Pan de Cadiz (bread from Cadiz) are some of the most popular dishes.
Beauty and wellness
If you are looking for relaxation, it is easy to find beauty and wellness centres and spas in Andalusia. Many of its cities have historic Arab baths, with steam rooms and swimming pools, as well as tea rooms.
WHERE CAN YOU GO SHOPPING?

Mantones de Manila in a shop on Sierpes Street in Seville © Turismo Sevilla

If you're looking for souvenirs, it's always a good idea to visit the local artisan workshops (you'll find them inside big cities) where you can find a Manila shawl embroidered with fine silks, leatherwork and other traditional craftwork. Ceramic items, such as gilded Nasrid earthenware, could also be a nice souvenir. You will also find exclusive jewellery throughout the Costa del Sol's different municipalities. Some areas, especially marinas and resorts such as Marbella, have top designer boutiques.
CHILD-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

Isla Mágica leisure park in Seville © Turismo Sevilla

Andalusia is an ideal destination for a family holiday. Apart from its many beaches and family-friendly accommodation, there is a wide range of leisure parks.
Are you looking for excitement and fun at amusement parks? Then you'll love the Isla Magica theme park in Seville. Children can also learn while having fun at the Science Park Museum in Granada or the Riotino Mining Park.
If you like animals and would like to see them in their habitat and interact with them, you can choose between Bioparc Fuengirola, Selwo Aventura Estepona, Selwo Marina Benalmádena, Aquarium of Seville or the Castillo de las Guardas Reserve, only 50 kilometres from Seville.
HOW TO GET TO ANDALUSIA?

Seville Airport

You can get to Andalusia quickly by taking a flight from Barcelona or Madrid, by high-speed train, or by travelling with your own or rented car. The province has excellent transport links and you can get from one city to another by train or bus.