Want to Explore Spain Beyond Madrid and Barcelona? Andalusia Should be on Your Itinerary

Flamenco, fiestas, bullfighting, Spanish guitars; Andalusia is a true Spanish experience, yet in many ways distinct from other popular destinations of Spain like Madrid or Barcelona. One of the most populated areas of Spain, Andalusia is full of many charms, some have been discovered, while some are waiting to be unearthed.

Andalusia is also historically significant. The culture and history of the region have a heavy Muslim and Romani influence. The name Andalusia itself can be traced back to the Arabic language and was called Al-Andalus. Apart from these, the Romans, Greeks, Byzantines, Vandals, Iberians and Visigoths have also left their marks on Andalusia. And perhaps, it is this potpourri of cultural influences that make Andalusia so very fascinating.

One of the warmest regions in Europe, Andalusia is also a popular tourist destination blessed with a spectacular shoreline and a landscape as diverse as its culture. Mountains, valleys, beaches and deserts- you’ll find it all in Andalusia.

Andalusia consists of eight provinces: Almería, Cádiz, Córdoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaén, Málaga and Seville, spanning across southern Spain to the Portuguese border in the west. It’s quite a long journey to travel through all of Andalusia’s provinces in one go. So let’s take you to two of the most popular provinces of Andalucía; Malaga and Seville.

Málaga

A charming blend of history and all things modern, Málaga is the birth place of Pablo Picasso, one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 20^th century. The city boasts of a thriving nightlife and is filled with stylish boutiques, trendy bars and plush restaurants. Located on the splendid Mediterranean coast, Malaga with its stunning scenery is a real treat for the eyes and the senses. No trip to Malaga is complete without a visit to the Picasso Museum. Needless to say, the museum houses some of Picasso’s best artworks.

Here’s a tip: Entrance to the museum is free on the last Sunday of every month. So if you are on a tight budget, you know when to go there! A visit to the most famous landmarks of Malaga, the Moorish palace and fortress of Alcazaba and Castillo de Gibralfaro, is also a must when visiting Malaga. Views from the top of Gibralfaro Castle are simply marvelous.

Seville

Seville is the vibrant capital city of Andalusia. For all the Bollywood movie buffs out there, a recent Bollywood blockbuster, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, was filmed in the region. Flamenco, beautiful people, Spanish guitars, colorful costumes- Seville is all this and much more. Old Churches, museums, fascinating streets, beautiful art galleries, Moorish architecture, there’s just so much to see and do in Seville! One of the best ways of exploring parts of the city is on foot. Santa Cruz, Seville’s old Jewish quarter is one of the most attractive and fascinating parts of the city. With its paved lanes, intriguing backstreets and houses, Santa Cruz is a must-visit, without a doubt. Apart from the city attractions, Seville is also famous for its exotic food. While Tapas and churros are key elements of life in Seville, the famous ‘Manzanillo’ olives are also a local produce and is added to salads, pastas and other dishes.

Andalusia makes for a perfect destination for a unique, uncommon and enthralling holidaying experience. While there are plenty of typical touristy things to do and places to see, Andalusia offers many other experiences which are not found easily in other popular holiday destinations. A historical delight with a fabulous scenic beauty, a food-lover’s haven and a photographer’s dream- What’s Andalusia going to be for you? Go on and find out for yourself.