Andalusia in five days
Andalusia is an essential destination for holidays in Spain. You really have to visit the south, because it’s home to some of the world’s most famous historic sites, a really delicious culinary tradition, unique Arab heritage, picture postcard villages of whitewashed houses, a wealth of shops selling artisan products, and a bustling street life with a cheerful atmosphere you won't find anywhere else.
Andalusia is the second largest region of Spain. It measures 500 kilometres from end to end, so if you have just five days and you want to explore the region as an independent traveller, your best bet is to hire a car and concentrate on a few of its most famous cities.
Day 2: The Alhambra and Granada
Granada is just over 120 kilometres from Malaga. The city has a charm all its own, and also boasts one of the world’s most beautiful and fascinating heritage sites: the Alhambra. It is so spectacular that we recommend setting aside at least half a day to explore it at your own pace.
The Alhambra
It’s worth getting up early to be among the first visitors of the day to one of the busiest tourist attractions in Spain. The site is a complex of palaces and gardens which once symbolised the wealth and power of the Nasrid dynasty. There is a lot to see, but some of the most famous spots in the Nasrid palaces include the Patio de los Leones (Court of the Lions) and its iconic fountain, the Patio de Comares, the Sala de Dos Hermanas (Hall of the two Sisters), and the Peinador de la Reina (Queen's Robing Room). You can also visit the Palace of Charles V, and the Alcazaba. Remember that there are also tours of the Alhambra by night, and exclusive visits while the site is closed to the public.
The Generalife and its gardens
A general ticket to the Alhambra also includes a visit to the Generalife palace, the summer residence of the Nasrid Emirs, and its fabulous gardens. A stroll in the gardens, listening to the sound of water and admiring the flowers, is a memorable experience and a treat for all the senses.
The Realejo district
The area around the Alhambra is also interesting, with places like El Carmen de los Mártires, one of the most romantic gardens in the city.
For dinner, you could visit the Realejo district, the quiet and picturesque former Jewish quarter, with plenty of restaurants to choose from.