10-day Andalusia Itinerary: The best of the south of Spain

Introduction

Wondering how to spend 10 days in Andalusia, in the south of Spain? That’s exactly what we did during our trip in December 2021 and January 2022 — and it was nothing short of amazing.

Not only did we enjoy sunny days and warmer weather than we had back in France, but we also managed to strike a perfect balance of culture, history, and relaxation. This itinerary follows exactly what we did, so you can use it as inspiration for your own adventure.

From the lively streets of Seville to the rich history of Córdoba, the stunning Alhambra in Granada, and the coastal charm of Málaga, this 10-day Andalusia itinerary covers the region’s highlights while still allowing time to soak in the atmosphere.

Ten days is just the right amount of time to see Andalusia’s best spots without feeling too rushed.

So, let’s dive into this 10-day Andalusia itinerary and explore one of Spain’s most beautiful regions!

Getting there

Andalusia is easy to reach thanks to its multiple international airports and great train connections. The main entry points are Seville, Málaga, and Granada airports, all with direct flights from major European cities. If you’re coming from outside Europe, the most convenient way is to fly into Madrid or Barcelona and then connect with a local flight or high-speed train (AVE) to Andalusia.

If you’re already in Spain, the AVE high-speed train is the best option. From Madrid, it takes about 2h30 to Seville or 2h40 to Córdoba, making it a fast and comfortable way to start your trip. Buses are also available, though slower, and better for budget travelers.

For those on a road trip, Andalusia is well-connected by highways. Driving gives you the most freedom to explore charming white villages, scenic countryside, and smaller towns that trains don’t reach.

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Moving Around

Getting around Andalusia is pretty straightforward, and the best option really depends on your travel style.

If you’re focusing only on the big cities like Seville, Córdoba, Granada, and Málaga, you don’t need a car at all. The AVE high-speed trains and regional trains connect these cities quickly and comfortably, and buses fill in the gaps where trains don’t go. Once inside the cities, you can walk almost everywhere, especially in the historic centers.

But if you want to explore the pueblos blancos (white villages), scenic countryside, or places like Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegas, or the Alpujarras mountains, renting a car is a game-changer. The roads are in great condition, parking is usually manageable outside the historic centers, and you’ll get the flexibility to stop wherever you like.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

Andalusia is a year-round destination, but the experience changes a lot with the seasons.

• Spring (March to May) – One of the best times to visit. Days are warm and sunny, evenings are pleasant, and you’ll see orange blossoms everywhere. It’s also festival season, with Seville’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril being highlights.
• Summer (June to August) – Expect scorching heat, especially in Córdoba and Seville, where temperatures often climb above 40°C (104°F). Coastal areas like Málaga and Cádiz are cooler, but this is peak tourist season.
• Autumn (September to November) – Another fantastic time. Temperatures are mild (20–28°C / 68–82°F), the crowds are smaller, and it’s perfect for sightseeing and road tripping.
• Winter (December to February) – Winters are mild compared to northern Europe, with daytime highs around 12–18°C (54–64°F). This is when we visited, and we loved it—fewer tourists, cheaper prices, and still plenty of sunshine.

If we had to pick the absolute best months for a 10-day Andalusia itinerary, we’d recommend April–May or September–October for that perfect mix of good weather and manageable crowds.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Where to Stay

For a 10-day Andalusia itinerary, it’s best to move between cities rather than staying in just one place. Andalusia is large and diverse, and splitting your time across Seville, Córdoba, Granada, and Málaga makes the most sense.

Here’s what to expect in each city and the types of stays you can book:

• Seville – Stay at least 3–5 nights. The old town and Santa Cruz district are packed with charming boutique hotels and traditional Andalusian-style patios. If you want something more local, book a family-run guesthouse tucked in the narrow streets.
• Córdoba – One night is usually enough or a day trip from Seville. The best stays here are cozy riad-style hotels and guesthouses inside historic buildings. Try to stay close to the Mezquita to really soak up the atmosphere.
• Granada – Plan for 2 nights. You’ll find a mix of cave houses in the Sacromonte district, budget-friendly hostels in the Albaicín, and beautiful boutique hotels with Alhambra views.
• Málaga – End with 2–3 nights. Choose between modern city hotels in the historic center, apartments with terraces near Calle Larios, or beachfront resorts if you want to relax by the sea.

Outside the main cities, Andalusia is full of unique options too. You can spend a night in a cortijo (traditional farmhouse) surrounded by olive groves, or even book a stay in a converted monastery or palace hotel for something truly memorable.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

What to Eat

One of the best parts of your 10 days in Andalusia will be the food. Southern Spain is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and tapas culture. Meals are meant to be shared, slowly enjoyed, often with a glass of local wine or sherry. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Tapas – Andalusia is the birthplace of tapas. Order a few small plates instead of one big dish and try a bit of everything.
• Salmorejo – Similar to gazpacho but thicker, creamier, and topped with cured ham and hard-boiled egg. A Córdoba specialty.
• Gazpacho – A refreshing cold tomato soup, perfect on hot days.
• Flamenquín – Pork wrapped in ham, breaded, and fried. A filling Córdoba classic.
• Rabo de Toro (Oxtail stew) – Rich, slow-cooked, and one of Andalusia’s heartiest dishes.
• Pescaito frito – Freshly fried fish, especially popular in coastal Málaga.
• Tortilla de camarones – Crispy shrimp fritters from Cádiz.
• Churros con chocolate – Fried dough sticks dipped in thick hot chocolate — the perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Tarta de Santiago – Almond cake topped with powdered sugar, more common in the north of Spain but easy to find in Andalusia too.

For vegetarians, Andalusia is surprisingly friendly: dishes like berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), ensaladilla rusa (Spanish potato salad), vegetable paella, and, endless tapas with grilled veggies, cheeses, and olives are always on the menu.

And don’t forget to pair your meals with local drinks:

• Sherry (Jerez) – Andalusia’s most famous export. Try a glass in Seville or Jerez.
• Tinto de Verano – A lighter alternative to sangria, made with red wine and lemon soda.
• Local wines – Málaga and Granada both produce fantastic regional wines.

10 days Itinerary in Andalusia Overview

Here’s how to spend 10 days in Andalusia using only public transportation. While many travelers choose to rent a car, you really don’t need one — trains and buses connect the major cities well, and walking is the best way to explore once you’re there.

• Day 1: Arrive in Seville: Arrival, settle in, evening stroll & tapas.
• Day 2: Explore Seville on Foot: Walking tour of the old town & main squares.
• Day 3: Seville Highlights: Alcázar, Cathedral, Archivo de Indias, Santa Cruz.
• Day 4: Northern Seville & Triana: Jardines de Murillo, markets, Triana district.
• Day 5: Day Trip to Córdoba: Mezquita-Catedral, Jewish Quarter, Roman Bridge.
• Day 6: Transfer to Granada: Travel & evening walk in Albaicín.
• Day 7: Alhambra Day: Full visit of the Alhambra & gardens.
• Day 8: Granada & Transfer to Málaga: Cathedral, viewpoints, and afternoon travel to Málaga.
• Day 9: Explore Málaga: Alcazaba, Roman Theatre, Castillo de Gibralfaro.
• Day 10: Málaga & Departure: Jardín Botánico, old town, travel home.

If you’re renting a car, you can adapt this itinerary by adding smaller towns and villages along the way — Andalusia is full of gems just outside the main cities.

Check our Google Map of Spain

10-day Andalusia Itinerary – Day by Day

Day 1: Arrive in Seville

Arrive in Seville through its international airport. From there, hop on the EA bus, which takes you directly to the city center in about 35 minutes. Once you reach the center, head to your accommodation, settle in, and take it easy. If you arrive early enough, go for a relaxed evening stroll through the old town and enjoy your first tapas in Andalusia.

Where to stay in Seville: (€): Hotel Giralda Center, (€€): Only YOU Hotel Sevilla, (€€€): Hotel Alfonso XIII,

Day 2: Visit Seville

Kick off your day with a Free Walking Tour—a great way to get your bearings while learning about Seville’s history, legends, and hidden corners from a local guide. Once you’ve walked through the highlights of the old town, head over to Parque de María Luisa, Seville’s biggest park. Take your time strolling under the shady trees, relaxing by fountains, and enjoying its lush gardens.

Within the park, you’ll find the stunning Plaza de España, the city’s most iconic square. Its sweeping semi-circular building, tiled alcoves, and bridges over a canal make it one of the most photogenic spots in Andalusia.

As evening approaches, walk back toward the riverbank. It’s a beautiful place to wind down your day—sit at one of the terraces along the Guadalquivir River, enjoy the view of the water, and soak in the evening atmosphere of Seville.

Where to stay in Seville: (€): Hotel Giralda Center, (€€): Only YOU Hotel Sevilla, (€€€): Hotel Alfonso XIII,

Read: 22 Best things to do in Seville in 4 days

Day 3: Visit Seville

Spend your day exploring the heart of Seville’s old town, home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start with the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a breathtaking palace complex where Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture blend seamlessly. Take your time wandering through its ornate halls, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens.

Next, head to the Catedral de Sevilla, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Inside, you’ll find stunning chapels, priceless art, and the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Don’t skip climbing the Giralda Tower for panoramic views over the city.

Just nearby is the Archivo de Indias, a must-see for history lovers. This archive houses invaluable documents from Spain’s colonial era, showcasing the country’s role in global history.

In the afternoon, wander through the Santa Cruz district, the old Jewish quarter. Its narrow, winding streets, charming squares, and flower-filled patios are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

End your day with a flamenco show at Casa de la Memoria, one of the most intimate and authentic venues in Seville. It’s the perfect way to experience the passion and artistry of this Andalusian tradition.

Where to stay in Seville: (€): Hotel Giralda Center, (€€): Only YOU Hotel Sevilla, (€€€): Hotel Alfonso XIII,

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Day 4: Visit Seville

On your last full day in Seville, head north of the city center to explore some of its lesser-known gems. Begin with a walk through the area’s historic churches and hidden plazas before making your way to the Casa de Pilatos, a stunning 16th-century palace that blends Renaissance, Gothic, and Mudejar architecture. Its courtyards and intricate tilework make it one of Seville’s most beautiful residences.

From there, wander back through the Jardines de Murillo, a peaceful green space perfect for a midday stroll. The gardens are dotted with fountains, tiled benches, and shaded walkways that offer a quiet contrast to the lively streets of the old town.

Cross the river to the neighborhood of Triana, once home to Seville’s potters and flamenco dancers. This is the best place to learn about the city’s azulejos (colorful ceramic tiles), with workshops, ceramic shops, and the excellent Ceramics Museum of Triana showcasing their history and artistry.

Finish the evening with tapas along Calle Betis, where you can enjoy local dishes while watching the sun set over the Guadalquivir River.

Where to stay in Seville: (€): Hotel Giralda Center, (€€): Only YOU Hotel Sevilla, (€€€): Hotel Alfonso XIII,

Day 5: Day trip to Cordoba

On your fifth day, take a break from Seville with a day trip to Córdoba, one of Andalusia’s most enchanting cities. The fastest and most convenient way to get there is by train. The 9:13 am high-speed AVE train will get you to Córdoba in just 45 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to explore.

Your first stop should be the city’s crown jewel: the Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba). This architectural wonder is unlike anything else in the world, blending Islamic and Christian influences with its endless red-and-white arches and ornate chapels. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after your visit.

From there, make your way to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs). The palace itself is interesting, but the real highlight is its beautifully kept gardens, with reflecting pools, fountains, and orange trees that make it a perfect spot to wander slowly.

Afterwards, stroll through Córdoba’s charming streets and discover its other highlights:

• Roman Bridge crossing the Guadalquivir River
• Jewish Quarter with its whitewashed houses and narrow alleys
• Hidden patios decorated with colorful flowers

If you prefer a more relaxed experience without having to plan trains and tickets, you can also join a guided tour from Seville to Córdoba, which typically covers all the main highlights and gives you extra context about the city.

By the evening, take the train back to Seville and enjoy a quiet night after a full day of sightseeing.

Where to stay in Seville: (€): Hotel Giralda Center, (€€): Only YOU Hotel Sevilla, (€€€): Hotel Alfonso XIII,

Read: 9 best things to do in Cordoba in 1 day

Day 6: Transfer to Granada

After a few busy days in Seville, take the morning slow. Enjoy a last walk along the Guadalquivir River, maybe grab a coffee on the riverbank, and soak in the atmosphere before moving on to your next stop. Maybe make a stop at the Setas de Sevilla

From Seville, you can reach Granada either by bus (around 3 hours) or train (about 2.5–3 hours depending on the connection). Both options are comfortable and run several times a day.

Once you arrive in Granada, check into your accommodation and decide how much energy you have left. If you feel like exploring, start with a gentle stroll through the old city center and the lively Albaicín district with its narrow streets and Moorish charm. If not, simply relax, settle in, and save your energy for tomorrow’s big highlight: the Alhambra.

Where to stay in Granada: (€): Hotelito Suecia, (€€): NH Collection Victoria:, (€€€): Seda Club Hotel

Read: 13 best things to do in Granada in 2 days

Day 7: Visit Granada

This day is all about experiencing Granada’s magic. Start early with a visit to the Alhambra, Spain’s most visited monument and an absolute highlight of any Andalusia itinerary. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this palace and fortress complex is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Wander through the Nasrid Palaces, admire the intricate carvings and courtyards, stroll the Generalife gardens, and don’t miss the stunning views over the Albaicín district from the fortress walls. Be sure to book your tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly.

After descending from the Alhambra, head back into the city center. Stop by the Granada Cathedral, an impressive Renaissance building with striking interiors. Just nearby is the Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella are buried.

In the afternoon, make your way to Sacromonte, the historic gypsy quarter famous for its cave houses and flamenco traditions. Along the way, take time to stop at the many miradores (viewpoints) such as San Nicolás or San Cristóbal, where you’ll get some of the best panoramic views of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background.

End the day wandering through the Albaicín, with its maze of narrow Moorish streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares. Grab dinner here and enjoy the atmosphere before heading back to your accommodation.

Where to stay in Granada: (€): Hotelito Suecia, (€€): NH Collection Victoria:, (€€€): Seda Club Hotel

Day 8: Visit Granada & Transfer to Malaga

Spend your last morning in Granada enjoying the city at a slower pace. Wander through the Albaicín one more time, stopping at your favorite viewpoints to soak in those Alhambra panoramas. Before leaving, make sure to visit the Carmen de los Mártires, a beautiful garden filled with fountains, terraces, and hidden corners that feels like a peaceful escape right in the city.

By midday, catch a bus or train to Málaga. The journey takes around 1.5–2 hours, making it an easy transfer. Once you arrive, check in to your accommodation and head out for a first taste of the city.

In the evening, you can either enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of Málaga’s many restaurants or take a twilight stroll around the city center. Don’t miss a visit to the Málaga Cathedral, often called “La Manquita” (the one-armed lady) because one of its towers was never completed. It’s just as impressive outside as it is inside, especially when lit up at night.

Where to stay in Malaga: (€): Coeo Hernán Ruiz , (€€): Soho Boutique Equitativa, (€€€): Only YOU Hotel Málaga

Read: 12 best things to do in Malaga in 2 days

Day 9: Visit Malaga

Dedicate this day to exploring Málaga’s rich history and coastal charm. Start your morning at the Teatro Romano de Málaga, the Roman theatre that sits at the foot of the Alcazaba. It’s one of the city’s oldest monuments and gives a glimpse into Málaga’s ancient past.

From there, head straight into the Alcazaba, a stunning Moorish fortress built in the 11th century. Its courtyards, gardens, and arches are beautifully preserved, and the views over the city and harbor from its walls are breathtaking.

Next, take the uphill walk (or bus, if you prefer) to the Castillo de Gibralfaro, the castle that overlooks both the Alcazaba and the Mediterranean. The panoramic views from here are some of the best in all of Andalusia—you’ll see the bullring, port, old town, and beaches all in one sweep.

After a morning of sightseeing, stop for lunch in the city center, then head toward the coast. Walk along the Pérgolas de la Victoria to reach the beach and enjoy some time by the sea. End your day with a stroll back through the Málaga Park, a lush green promenade filled with fountains, sculptures, and tropical plants, perfect for winding down.

Where to stay in Malaga: (€): Coeo Hernán Ruiz , (€€): Soho Boutique Equitativa, (€€€): Only YOU Hotel Málaga

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Day 10: Visit Malaga & Return

On your final day in Andalusia, start your morning with a visit to the Jardín Botánico-Histórico La Concepción, a lush 19th-century garden just north of the city. It’s a peaceful retreat filled with tropical and subtropical plants, fountains, and shaded paths—perfect for a calm morning before wrapping up your trip.

From there, catch a bus back toward the city center and stop at the Atarazanas Central Market. This bustling market is one of the best places in Málaga to soak in local life and taste fresh Andalusian produce. Whether you pick up a quick snack or simply wander among the colorful stalls, it’s worth the visit.

Before heading home, take some time to explore Soho, Málaga’s trendy arts district. The neighborhood is filled with murals, galleries, cafés, and shops, giving a vibrant and creative end to your 10-day Andalusia adventure.

From here, it’s time to make your way back to the airport or train station for your onward journey.