21.02.2022.
New Ryanair lines- direct and cheap- from Zagreb to Malaga were the reason to realise my Andalusia dream. I always wanted to stay longer in the dreamy towns like these, to feel the soul of the art and the place. But I guess, you have to take it little by little and act now.
Andalusia is a large area almost like Croatia and Sevilla is its queen and capital. If you’re visiting Spain’s capital Madrid, be sure to check pretty towns in its surroundings. You might consider these day trips from Madrid.
Definitely I would need two weeks to experience without the rush all the majestic places.
Check out other amazing places to visit in winter in Europe, regardless the temperature.
Malaga and around
Malaga is a colourful town full of history, best known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Malaga is the throne of Costa del Sol giving entrance to the lovely coastal towns.
Malaga gives delight to the sunsets and wonderful views close to Gibralfaro fortress. Only 20 minutes of walking will take you to this point but if you’re on budget, you can skip Gibralfaro. Gibralfaro is full of towers unlike the Alcazaba fortress, a little lower.
Beautiful Malagueta beach is about 15 minutes walking from the centre, people play valleyball or just enjoy the Sun here.
With the sunset at 19h when in Croatia is 17h gives a lot of time to truly enjoy Malaga and search for sunsets. Though we’re in the same time zone, Spain is even more western than England. In my opinion Spain is in the wrong time zone. But differences in the sunset time regarding the rest of Europe depends upon the Earth elevation. Thus in summer the sunsets are very late in Spain, around 10h.
Beautiful Cathedral is a blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles which took 150 years to be built.
The only one tower gives the stunning views of the city.
Plaza de Merced is a relaxing square to catch the moment close to the museum of Pablo Picasso.
Malaga has many other museums like Museo del Vidrio (Glass museum), Automobile and Fashion Museum.
Botanical Gardens of Malaga offer the stunning collection of tropical plants. The lovely arbor or Mirador is the symbol of the Gardens.
Vegan food in Malaga
I was searching for La Vegana which would offer cheap tacos but unfortunately they were on holidays during my visit. It’s located just across Plaza de Merced.
Recyclo Byke Caffe was my next choice as it’s open the whole day (not taking the usual siesta time like many restaurants). They were not completely vegan but I order two tacos with seitan and vegetables and still was hungry. One was 4,5€. So just for the price I wouldn’t recommend this place. It’s located close to the river.
Around Malaga
Caminito del Rey is an excellent hike covering gorgeous canyons but it’s a bit complicated to come. There’s one one train there and back plus you need to buy your ticket online in advance. More about hiking in Andalucia, learn from my blogger friend Linn who runs two blogs- Brainy Backpackers about sustainable travel and Andalucia Hiking. Definitely I have to leave something for the next time.
Mijas
Mijas is one of the gorgeous pueblos biancos in Andalusia- the hilly, white town. It’s full of souvenir shops and cozy streets. Park with the azulejos fontain was a magic discovery. The fantastic view can be seen from the castle and church covering the sea.
There’s even a Museum of miniatures.
Castle Colomares
This gorgeous castle brings delight to the eyes though it’s not very historical. Unfortunately, it was closed when I went as it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
I only saw it from the entrance.
It’s pretty close to Mijas but the first bus driver didn’t know where to stop so I needed to come back. It’s actually pretty easy, you need to stop at Mimosa stop. From there go the first street down, it’s a 5-10 minutes walk.
Benalmadena is the town that encircles the castle but the bus connections to Malaga are pretty bad. There’s only one direct line to Malaga around 19,30 leaving from Mijas.
Nerja
Nerja is a charming town only one hour from Malaga, you don’t even need to go to the main bus station which is further.
Excellent views you can find at the Balcony of Europe. Very pretty beach is located down here but to truly enjoy the beach go to Maro. It’s just next to the famous Nerja caves.
Nerja caves are a bit out of the town, the ticket is 14€. The fascinating structure will make you feel enchanted, it’s definitely worth a visit. You can take a little hike, first I went up here as I didn’t know the entrance is in the building just across the cash register.
Frigiliana
Frigiliana is only 6km away from Nerja, also one of the white hilly towns. The ticket is only 1,5€. It would be such a pity to miss it as it’s one of the loveliest towns of Spain. The awesome sunsets await, pretty cobblestone streets and you can even visit a botanical garden.
Sevilla- the queen of Andalusia
Sevilla, the queen of Andalusia, is definitely the prettiest city in Andalusia or even in Spain.
The architecture is just amazing decorated in beautiful tiles.
The cradle of tile production and birthplace of many flamenco singers and dancers is the colourful neighbourhod of Triana. After passing the Isabel’s bridge, you can see some of the best views of Sevilla. Market of Triana is also very pretty, just like the Market of Arenal. Here you will find the cozy Veganissima, it works from 11-16 and 20-22.
Plaza de Espagna is definitely the highlight of Sevilla but take care. There are lots of tiefs. I was with my hostel friend and we didn’t even enter the place when this happened. I lost only jacket but an expensive one, she lost her bag with documents and phone. It was a bit out of site so responsibility is ours. But I didn’t know where is her bag and of course, I couldn’t imagine that somebody would take even jackets.
Sevilla holds one of the largest cathedrals in the world and beautiful Royal Alcazar. Alcazar is the fabulous palace where royal family still lives. You can visit only the lower part and gardens which is cheaper. I took the more expensive ticket which covers the upper royal rooms. You will learn something about the history listening the audio talk but if you’re on the budget, you can skip it.
Alcazar is fantastic but it’s not a good place for taking photos. It’s pretty dark, you cannot use flash. You cannot take off the mask to take pictures, you have to do it quick. You also cannot use tripod or self sticks.
Sevilla is also known by its nightlife.
What to bring to Andalusia in February
Most of the people were wearing summer dresses and shorts though it’s a bit cold in the morning and evening. That’s why take a the jacket on the day trips. I was wearing tights too. Even with the summer dresses and tights it’s not cold in the evening but with the jacket. Though some people were pretty leisurely dressed even in the evening.
Definitely bring the hat as the Sun is too strong, I haven’t and I was walking like this:
Conclusion
Andalusia is not only fairy tale but the land of discovery from the seaside coast, incredible towns and mountains.
It’s my favourite part of Spain as it’s just so enchanting. The Moorish heritage left the incredible artistic influence.
PIN IT FOR LATER:
I’m seriously wishing I could just teleport into your photos right now. These places look so amazing! You’re giving me a giant dose of wanderlust, that’s for sure.
thanks sor such a vibrant comment, Andalusia is a fairy tale.
Andalusia is just so dreamy, I must plan a trip there soon
Wow, your photos are beautiful and really highlight all of the amazing places and sites to see in Andalusia, It’s such a shame that the castle was closed when you went there. I have a particular love of castles, both old and new, so I would love to go there and check it out one day.
Oh this looks absolutely amazing! The tower looks so beautiful and the castle is breathtaking, although it’s a shame it wasn’t open. Thank you so much for sharing x
Great read, thanks. I have been to Malaga numerous times and Seville for the first time last year but am yet to go to some of the smaller towns nearby so will definitely be checking them out now that I see how beautiful they are!
I adore that particular castle. You took amazing photos.
Oh wow!!!!!!! Malaga is such a beautiful city. The last time I visited there was in 2004. I miss Southern Spain. I wish to visit there again. Thank you for sharing. Beautiful post and pictures.
Alovely informative read – I love the photos and the castle sounds fabulous. On my bucket list now!
Stunning photos! The castle looks so beautiful!
Anadalusia looks sooo beautiful! I hope to visit there one day. Absolutely gorgeous photos!
Andalusia has been on my wishlist for a long time now – Mijas and Frigliana are both so pretty, and the beaches of Nerja are stunning.
I loved reading this! As a college graduation gift to myself, I booked a 14-day trip to Spain and Morocco. This post brought me right back! Malaga and Costa De Sol is beautiful but there’s something about Sevilla…majestic is the word I would use as well. Thank you so much for sharing!
Love this! Thank you for sharing! I want to travel so much so I will live vicariously through your pictures until I can myself lol
This sounds like an amazing trip and so much fun. I would love to visit all of these places. Thank you for sharing.
Great read!
I’ve been to Spain before in a few different cities including Madrid and Barcelona, but never in Malaga and the others you mentioned! They all look lovely – time to start booking again some travel me thinks!
I would love to visit here — for now your travel posts and photos are how I’m exploring, haha! Thanks for sharing!
Wow, so many beautiful places to visit. The architecture is just lovely. I have only been to a few places in Spain, but not Malaga or Andalusia, so definitely adding to my list!
Beautiful photos and videos too!
Aimsy xoxo
Aimsy’s Antics
What a beautiful trip!! Your photos are gorgeous and I love the yellow dress!!
~Elizabeth
Great read!
What a lovely place to visit! I really enjoyed you write up and your photos are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!
Wow you fit so much into your trip! Beautiful photos too 🙂 it’s been far too long since I’ve been abroad, I’d love a trip like this soon.
I miss Spain. I’ve not visited in over 10 years. Seriously, how did I not know Picasso was from Malaga! I’m shocked! I love European castles and Castle Colomares looks like something out of a fairytale! The Plaza de Espagna is so beautiful, but I’m so sorry to heard that you had your things stolen! It’s good to warn other traveler’s about this, as they’ll be more vigilant in the future. Thanks for sharing your adventures
Lindsay | https://thetravelvine.blog/
I’ve never heard of this place before, but it looks gorgeous! The beach looks so relaxing.
Andalusia looks so beautiful. And there is so much to see and do. I’m putting Andalusia on my for when I finally get to Spain. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I’ve only ever been to Barcelona, but your pictures are making me want to travel again amd see the Andalusia region! They are breathtaking!
Love the details of your blog. Your pictures are beautiful and encapsulate the culture of that region of Spain. Will save it to Pinterest for future reference.
Love your photos! They’ve convinced me to visit Spain. Thank you.
This list is amazing! Spain is one of my favorite countries, but there is so much to explore there! I really like your photos. Malaga and Sevilla are on my travel bucket list, and I hope to visit them one day! Thanks for sharing!
Wow. Looks like such a great adventure. Thanks so much for sharing all about it
This place looks amazing! I’m going to Spain this year as well. I will add this to the list when I go there!
This area is on my must ‘DO’ list and has been for a very long time…I hope to be there 2023 but your descriptions & pictures make me want to go earlier …. thank you
This looks like it was a great trip. Andalusia is one of the most beautiful parts of Spain, and it is definitely worth going to some day.
I’m itching to travel now after reading this post. These towns look amazing I’ll need to put them on my bucket list! Your photos are gorgeous and you look/sound like you’re living your best life! This is my first time landing on your blog so I’ll be a sure time keep an eye on your travels & adventures in the future!
Charlene McElhinney
https://charlenemcelhinney.co.uk
My in-laws are from the Valencia area of Spain, and it is such a beautiful country. I am in love with the tile work over there, so I tried to recreate it when we bought our new house. Brings a bit of Spain to us since with COVID travel has been pretty far and few between!
I have only been to Barcelona while in Spain, but after reading this and so many beautiful pictures, I really need to get a booking and visit Andalusia! x
These photos are amazing! I am dying to get to Spain with my kids.
amazing post!
I love Spain! Can’t wait to go back and visit.