Andalucia Travel Guide
Andalucia offers the perfect mix of rich history, culture and landmarks that is sure to captivate any traveller.
Andalucía is an autonomous region in the south of mainland Spain, it has a population of over 8 million people and its capital is Seville. The main language is Spanish, but this region has a distinct dialect from the rest of the country known as 'Andalusian Spanish.'
Successive invasions and influences from the Romans to the Moors have left their imprint on the Andalucian landscape and culture, making for a fascinating journey through time. See the finest, well preserved Moorish architecture at the iconic Alhambra in Granada and the breathtaking Mezquita in Cordoba. Visit the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and learn more about the artist in Malaga, uncover the whitewashed buildings of Frigiliana and explore Seville, famous for flamenco, tapas and the Alcazar, a royal palace.
Check out some general information below that may inspire your next holiday to Andalucia.
Time Zone & Currency
Spain is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. The currency in Spain is the Euro.
Weather In Andalucia
Temperatures in Antequera during spring, early summer and autumn range from the early to late 20s centigrade on average.
Reading For Your Trip To Andalucia
The Hand of Fatima by Ildefonso Falcones
South from Granada by Gerald Brenan
Factory of Light by Michael Jacobs
Best time to go to Andalucía
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Andalucía, where it is warm and balmy, without the intense heat of peak summer. Temperatures in these seasons range from 15-25 degrees, ideal weather for sightseeing in Andalucía.
Top Tourist Attractions In Andalucia
Frigiliana
Whitewashed houses lined with colourful flowers, charming cobbled streets surrounded by the countryside and the Mediterranean sea, it's no wonder Frigiliana is often ranked as one of the most picturesque villages in Spain.
Royal Alcazar of Seville
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Alcázar of Seville is an impressive example of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It is the oldest European Royal Palace that is still in use today.
Dolmen de Menga
Located near Antequera, the Dolmen of Menga is a megalithic burial mound. It's believed to be is around 4,000 years old and it's one of the biggest megalithic structures in Europe.
Balcony of Europe
"Balcon de Europa" or Balcony of Europe is a promenade in the town of Nerja, it was aptly named by King Alphons XII and it offers beautiful Mediterranean views.
Gibralfaro
Gibralfaro is a 130m high foothill, where the 14th century castle Castillo de Gibralfaro is located at the top. Built by Nasrid dynasty of the Moors, it overlooks the city of Malaga and provides incredible panoramic views.
Top Five Attractions in Seville
The vibrant capital of Andalucia, Seville continues to entice visitors with its architectural gems, beautiful gardens and culinary delights.
Food & Drink In Andalucia
Eating and drinking is a major part of Andalusian culture with plenty of flavoursome food available influenced by the area’s Moorish heritage. Along the coastline, delicious fish and seafood are widespread. While further inland, rich stews, jamones (cured hams) and game are preferred. Wherever you are, however, there is no better pleasure than joining the regulars at a local bar to wind down over a glass of fino (dry sherry from Jerez) while nibbling one of Andalucía’s world famous tapas or olives. Some of Travel Department’s favourite tapas include Tortilla Española, an omelette with potatoes and onion and Gambas al Ajillo, prawns cooked in a garlic and chilli sauce.
Andalucia Travel Guide FAQs
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Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Spain please see: www.dfa.ie
- Official Spanish Tourism Board: www.spain.info
