Summer is coming and it's time to plan your next trip, but for many tourists the question of choosing the right place for their pastime becomes almost the main brake. Where to go if you are tired of bored Turkey and Egypt, specific Asia, and most European cities already learned by heart? The correct answer is Andalusia (Spain)! Andalusia is autonomous community Spain, but at the same time fully embodies all the flavor and multifaceted culture characteristic of this country.
Among all the regions of Spain, Andalusia ranks second in terms of territory. There are eight provinces on its territory, many of which are in great demand among tourists: Corodova, Seville - also the capital, Malaga, Almerio, Cadiz, Granada, Jaen, Huelva. Why is this region so popular in Spain? The fact is that a festive atmosphere always reigns here, music flows, and incendiary and hospitable locals only add positive emotions! If tourists go here, then only for a good mood and wonderful holiday throughout the vacation. Let's get acquainted with this fabulous and at the same time mysteriously sunny region of Spain.
For travelers there is a huge abundance tourist routes. In addition, the history of Spanish, Arab and Moorish civilization was simultaneously intertwined in Andalusia. Picturesque mountainous areas flow smoothly into luxurious beaches, and crowded shopping centers and noisy restaurants once again remind you that this is where life really boils in Spain.
History of the region
The first inhabitants of Andalusia are considered to be hunters and gatherers, as evidenced by the remains found in the upper reaches of the Guadalquivir River tens of thousands of years ago. Initially, the spirit of the Tartessian culture flourished on the territory of familiar Andalusia, which was subsequently completely destroyed by the great powers of that time - Phoenicia and Greece. It is with the names of these states that the beginning of the colonization of Andalusia in Spain is associated. The territory periodically changed hands: at first it was the Romans who emerged victorious in the battle with Carthage, then the barbarian tribes of the Suebi and Vandals reigned here after the fall of the great power. For some time, the Visigoths thoroughly entrenched themselves on the territory of Andalusia, turning it into part of their kingdom. Nevertheless, Andalusia was at one time a prosperous region, but also suffered the worst of times.
The history of this region is truly fascinating and interesting, but the list of the entire historical chronicle of Andalusia can be endless. Therefore, we will not focus on this paragraph, but we will also tell you what is remarkable about this region and what sights and secrets it keeps in itself.
Geography and climate
Geographical location plays a big role in the tourism business of the region. At least the factor that the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea wash Andalusia from the south, and in the west there is access to the Atlantic Ocean, already speaks volumes. The beautiful views that open from the Sierra Nevada mountain complex defy any description. Let's start with the fact that this is the most high point throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
Weather conditions and favorable air temperature are the main indicators for travelers. In Andalusia, the average annual temperature never drops below +16 degrees Celsius, and in some regions sometimes even higher. But in the summer, real heat reigns here, but you can always cool off on one of the stunning local beaches. The weather in Andalusia in Spain is the main ally of all tourists! In general, if you are still thinking about a trip to these lands, then you should not torment yourself with doubts!
Sights of Andalusia in Spain
As we have already said, the history of this region is very diverse, therefore, there should be an insane amount of tourist sites that must be visited. This is true! From a tourist point of view, Andalusia is a developed region that has a wide variety of different tourist facilities. Let's get to know them better!
Alhambra
The world-famous Alhambra palace complex has long been a symbol of Andalusia. When it comes to this tourist attraction, one immediately imagines an image that combines romantic notes at the same time as luxurious properties. The complex occupied almost the entire territory of the hill on which it is located, proudly towering over Granada, and acts as a kind of landmark at the entrance to the city. Inside the Alhambra today there is a working museum, which has absorbed a wide range of works of art and historical artifacts, from which you will have a lot of impressions.
The largest temple located in Spain is located in Seville and bears the proud name of the Seville Cathedral. An interesting fact is that a religious building ranks third in the world among structures of this magnitude. This is a very beautiful, rich and incredibly imposing work of art. The dimensions of the cathedral in Seville even exceed the famous St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican!
Construction began in 1401, but continued for more than four centuries. Nevertheless, the masters managed to build a structure of unprecedented beauty. What is worth only the interior of the cathedral and its altar, made in the Gothic style, the creation of which required more than 3 tons of gold. In addition, the cathedral is in great demand among tourists, because within its walls is the tomb of Christopher Columbus himself!
Mesquite Mosque
Another equally famous attraction of Andalusia in Spain is located in Cordoba. This is the Cordoba Cathedral Mosque or Mesquite Mosque. Among the locals, she acts as the Cathedral of St. Mary, who, in turn, is the patroness of this region. Since 1236 the mosque has served Christian temple. Outwardly, the Mesquite Mosque is a unique creation of human hands, here are notes of an ancient Visigothic temple, smoothly turning into a Muslim mosque and a Christian cathedral. Also here you can see the famous Alcazar fortress and the garden of the same name, striking in its grandeur and beauty.
Alcazaba
The palace-mosque of Alcazaba, located in Malaga, is also an important landmark of Andalusia. At one time it was a powerful structure that protected the city from enemy attacks. The fortification has survived to this day from the reign of the Moors. Today, the Alcazaba appears before tourists in a completely new look after a major reconstruction, which was carried out at the beginning of the last century.
Architecture is the face of any city
Summing up, one thing can be said - the architectural heritage of Andalusia can surprise even the most experienced travelers with its richness and diversity. All the cities of Andalusia in Spain, which are part of this region, are a whole museum under open sky, and many of them are even part of world heritage UNESCO.
Separately, less popular cities such as Cadiz or Tarifa. The first city is the oldest settlement Western Europe, but Tarifa acts as the southernmost point of continental Europe. And in general, there are a lot of places in Spain that can be described as the best, including the rest in Andalusia in Spain.
Recreation areas of Andalusia
Local attractions, temples, museums are all very beautiful, but many resorts in Spain and Andalusia are also famous for their beach holidays, where whole families with children come to soak up the rays of the bright Spanish sun. The hallmark of Andalusia, apart from flamenco and bullfighting, are picturesque beaches! This region has absorbed almost the most luxury resorts Spain. One of the most unusual resorts, which was opened relatively recently by tourists, is the Costa del Almeria.
Why did he so quickly become wildly popular in the tourism business? Many tourists, even when they talk about holidays in Andalusia in Spain, mean this resort. The fact is that it is great for any kind of holiday! Surfers gather here every year, and not far from the beach there are prestigious golf clubs where you can spend the rest of the day richly.
But the resort of Costa del Sol is considered the most important among the rest. He got all the laurels because of the wonderful climatic conditions throughout the year. Not only is the weather good here, but the Sierra Nevada mountain range stretches along the coast, adjacent to areas famous for orchards and luxurious nature. The mountain system is in great demand among fans of active recreation. There are many interesting skiing tracks here, aimed more at professional athletes, so if you are a beginner in this difficult skiing business, then it is better to postpone the conquest of the slopes on the Sierra Nevada.
In addition to the advantages described above, Andalusia is also famous for its parks, botanical gardens and various nature reserves. Fans of eco-tourism will definitely like it here. A must-see is the Tivoli amusement park, where an insanely wide range of attractions blends harmoniously with tropical gardens, fountains and recreation areas. According to numerous positive feedback about Andalusia (Spain), we can conclude that the Tivoli Park is important not only for local residents, but is also the basis of the tourism business in this region.
Local kitchen
Andalusia is able to please tourists with its abundance of products that are offered here. Each vacationer will feel comfortable and will surely find a menu to his liking. For adherents of dietary nutrition, all the conditions are recreated here - fish, fresh vegetables and fruits. Fish dishes usually predominate in coastal areas, if you drive a little inland, the meat menu will dominate. Jamon is very popular, you can find it in absolutely any restaurant, and experienced chefs even organize competitions in cutting it every year. In other words, jamon in Andalusia is a work of art.
Andalucia Hotels
In Spain, there is never a problem with housing, especially in Andalusia. In this region, there are over 4 thousand different hotels and hotels, not taking into account hostels and apartments for rent for a short period. Most of the local hotels managed to gain wide popularity outside their state. In Andalusia, you can find a number of fashionable five-star hotels with their own beach, large territory and other things.
For example, Malaga in Andalusia (Spain) is famous for its hotel "Pasada del Patio" only because it is located in a historic restored building. Many researchers even believe that the site of the hotel was once the defensive wall of an Arab city.
What should new travelers know?
Despite the fact that the weather conditions in Andalusia are very favorable for recreation on its territory, it is better not to stay here in the summer. Why? The fact is that during the season there is a sultry heat, which can simply bring any human body out of proper working capacity. Especially if the purpose of your visit is to see local attractions, then in this weather you will not last long.
Tourists usually move by bus, less often by rented transport. Buses are a very convenient and comfortable way to travel in the cities of the autonomy. The average cost of a trip is about 1 euro, but it is better to purchase a specialized Bonobus travel card, which will help you save a lot.
Any major city in Andalusia has a branch or head office of one of the travel companies. In this way, spontaneous tours of Andalusia and Spain in general can be organized directly in the country.
Local beaches are quite deceptive, or rather, the water temperature can cause discomfort to an unknowing tourist. The fact is that the water here, despite the sultry heat, sometimes does not have time to warm up. Therefore, it is quite difficult to draw any conclusions about the temperature of sea water in advance.
How to get to resorts in the region?
Since Andalusia is a rich tourist area, here a large number of various airports. Cities such as Seville and Malaga are equipped with two large international air terminals, where crowds of tourists regularly arrive. You can move around the country with the help of domestic flights; in this case, there are domestic airports in Cordoba, Almeria or Granada. Each of the airfields regularly receives flights from Madrid or Barcelona. Therefore, as a fallback, you can always keep in mind a connecting flight through the capital.
Conclusion
According to tourists, in Andalusia (Spain) you can have a great vacation. Each city is like a map of the world, which is able to tell and show a whole historical chronicle and how each object has developed and improved over time. If you still have any doubts about spending time in Andalusia, it's only because you haven't been there yet. We hope that in this article you managed to find only useful information for yourself. Happy travels and new discoveries! Good luck!
Andalusia is my love! Sunny, tasty, beautiful, it will not leave anyone indifferent. Here are beautiful authentic cities, and the sea behind which sultry Africa is hidden, and frantic flamenco dances, and endless tapas in bars.
In the new material I share my impressions and tips on colorful southern region Spain - Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz and Granada - all that is worth seeing in Andalusia, in a seven-day intensive itinerary.
The first day. Seville Alcazar and flamenco.
Morning. You should definitely start your acquaintance with Andalusia from the capital of the region - Seville. Like other cities of Andalusia, Seville was once part of Arab Spain, which left its mark on the local architecture. It was under the influence of Islamic Arabs that the local style, Mudéjar, was formed, in which elements of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance art were intertwined. Luxurious carved arches, colored ceramic mosaics and richly decorated ceilings are especially characteristic of this style.
An example of the Mudéjar style in Seville is the Alcazar of Seville, the royal residence of the Spanish kings, which is worth starting your acquaintance with Seville. The first buildings on the territory of the palace date back to the Roman period, then the early Christian basilica was located here. In the VIII century, when Andalusia was conquered by the Arabs, the first fortress was built here, which successfully withstood the attack of the Vikings, which is why they began to call it Alcazar - from the Arabic "fortress". The heyday of the Alcazar falls on the 13th century, when the representative office of the Cordoba Caliphate was set up here.
After the Reconquista and the conquest of Andalusia by the Catholics, the Alcazar began to acquire Gothic features in architectural terms, and later elements of the Renaissance appeared here. However, the features characteristic of Islamic architecture have been preserved to this day, when the main buildings were located along the perimeter of the courtyard. Especially beautiful is the courtyard, which is called Maiden's. According to legend, one hundred of the most beautiful Christian virgins languished here, intended as a gift to the Caliph of Cordoba.
To save time standing in line, be sure to buy a ticket to the Alcazar online on the website (ticket price - 11.50 euros + 5 euros for an audio guide - be sure to take it, it is very interesting to listen to everything). Tickets are sold for a specific date and time, when approaching the Alcazar, go to a separate line for those who already have tickets. It is not necessary to print tickets, you can show a copy from the mail.
Day. There are two more notable buildings near the Alcazar. Directly opposite is a grand building that you can't miss - Granada Cathedral - the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe. In addition to paintings by Velazquez and Goya, the remains of Christopher Columbus are kept here, however, it is not known for certain whether they really belong to the great navigator, because they were transported several times between continents and countries, so everything could get mixed up.
The Giralda tower adjoins the cathedral, built in the 12th century during the reign of the Muslims in the Pyrenees, and at that time the minaret of the Seville mosque. After the conquest of Andalusia by the Catholics, the mosque was rebuilt into a cathedral, and the tower was used as a bell tower. In the 16th century, the tower was rebuilt in the fashionable for that time Renaissance, and a bronze figure was placed at the top, which began to serve as a weather vane. Hence the name of the tower - La Hiralda - in Spanish "weather vane".
After lunch, head to the nearby quarter of Santa Cruz. This is a former Jewish quarter where local Jews settled after the Reconquista. Here it is especially pleasant to stroll along the narrow streets, looking for elegant shops and delicious tapas bars.
Evening. While in Seville, you should definitely go to flamenco, even if it is a traditional tourist fun. Shows take place in the evening and it is better to buy tickets in advance. Locals recommend going for flamenco either at Casa de la Memoria (Calle Una 6) or d Bar La Anselma (Calle Pages del Corro).
Second day. Art Deco Seville and the Quarter de Triana.
Morning. We start the day in the central part of the city with a cup of fragrant chocolate and churros - traditional Spanish pastries consumed by the locals for breakfast - at Bar El Commercio (Calle Lineros 9). Winding through the streets of the medieval center, and then along Avenue de La Constitucion, we go to the intersection of San Fernando Street, where a beautiful Art Deco building rises on the corner - the Alfonso XIII Hotel, named after the Spanish king who ruled the country at the beginning of the 20th century when this hotel was built. It's insanely beautiful inside, so be sure to stop by (you'll be let in, don't worry).
Near the hotel is the building of the University of Seville, which was once the royal tobacco factory, where the famous Carmen worked - the heroine of the novel of the same name by Prosper Mérimée and the opera by Georges Bizet. Every day at the university free excursion around the campus, within which, among other things, they tell about the history of the factory. The tour starts at 11.30, the meeting point is easy to find by the signs at the entrance to the university.
Day. From the university building we go to the left side to the park, where the main art deco pearl of Seville hides - Plaza de España. At the beginning of the 20th century, Seville experienced a new architectural birth in connection with the Spanish-American exhibition held here, on the eve of which many iconic buildings appeared in the city, among which was Plaza de España - an urban ensemble in the neo-Mudéjar style (the same former Mudéjar style mixed with art deco).
Plaza of Spain
The beauty of this ensemble is the alcove niches, lined with ceramic tiles and dedicated to certain provinces of Spain. Many films were filmed here on the square, including Lawrence of Arabia and even the second episode of Star Wars.
The second half we get acquainted with the fishing district of Seville - Triana - where you can get by crossing one of the bridges over the Guadalquivir River. Triana is a former area of sailors and potters. In the Middle Ages, it was here that the main port in Seville was located, so sailors settled nearby. And this area was also considered a gypsy area, although I did not meet them.
One curious legend is connected with the area, which I had never heard of until I went for a walk around Triana and read about it. A native of these places was a certain Juan Rodriguez Bermejo, who was a sailor on the ship "Pinta" of the well-known Christopher Columbus in 1492. According to some chronicles, it was he who first saw the land of America and, according to the initial conditions, was to receive 10 thousand gold pieces - a reward promised by the royal couple of Spain to the one who first sees new lands across the Atlantic Ocean. However, either greed, or some other intentions prompted Columbus to attribute the land he saw to himself: he allegedly saw the edge on the horizon even earlier, but did not dare to claim what he saw as land, because he was not completely sure of this.
Columbus, as you know, did not end his life very well, and nothing is reliably known about the further fate of this sailor Juan. But in memory of the place of his birth, they began to call him Rodrigo de Triana, and also erected a monument to him.
Must-see places in the area include the beautiful Iglesia de Santa Ana Church and the Triana Market, where you can also eat deliciously.
For a walk around Triana (and in general around Seville), you can use the Azbo Audio Tour audio guide - they tell an extremely interesting story, and the application itself is convenient to use (do not forget to download the audio guide in advance if you have wi-fi).
Evening. Head back to the center and go to one of the great tapas bars in Seville, for local kitchen no less beautiful than the architecture. Particularly good are Bar Coloniales (Plaza Christo de Burgos), Bar La Bodega (Plaza de la Alfaifa) and Bar el Rinconcillo (Calle Gerona).
Day three. We go to the sea in Cadiz.
Morning. We take the train at the Seville Santa Justa station (the ticket costs 12.85 euros, it is worth buying in advance on the Renfe website) and we go south, to the city of Cadiz, which claims to be the most ancient city Western Europe, being founded as early as 1100 BC by the Phoenicians.
Tourists rarely get to Cadiz. The exception is February, when the famous “singing” carnival takes place in the city. For two weeks, festivities take place on the streets of the city, locals and visitors dress in extravagant costumes. As part of the carnival, a song contest is held, in which amateur groups - chirigotas - participate, which mainly consist of men dressed in certain costumes and singing satirical songs.
The main architectural value of Cadiz is the central cathedral of the city, where the musician Manuel de Galla and the writer Jose Maria Peman are buried. From the cathedral, go to the embankment, where good weather local youth will bask on the stone wall.
The promenade will lead you to the fortress of San Sebastian. In ancient times, when the Romans ruled here, on the site of the fortress there was a temple of Chronos, the father of Zeus, and after the conquest of Andalusia by the Arabs, a full-fledged fortress with a lighthouse was built in its place.
Day. From San Sebastian, turn back into the city and you will find yourself in the La Vina quarter, so named because of the many wine cellars that were located here. During the carnival, this is where the chirigotas stop and entertain the crowd with their songs.
Through the intertwining streets of the center we go to the upper part of the city to the Plaza de España. Of course, it is not as elegant as the square of the same name in Seville, but with a majestic column, white buildings and palm trees, it looks very pretty.
After walking along the port, go down again to the El Populo area, which is located on the left side of the cathedral. This is the oldest district of the city, where the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Arabs lived in different centuries. Here you can also eat delicious seafood before taking the evening train back to Seville.
Day four. Christian-Muslim shrines of Cordoba.
Morning. Again With We get on the train at the Seville Santa Justa station and go to neighboring Cordoba. The ticket is also worth buying in advance. online on site local railway lines Renfe, one way it will cost you 10.85 euros. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
The first thing to do in Cordoba, of course, is to head to the Mezquita, the once majestic mosque of the Caliphate of Cordoba. In the Middle Ages, the Mesquite was the largest mosque in the world, second only to the Umayyad mosque in Damascus.
In 1236, after the first successful wave of the Reconquista (this is the name of the process of liberation of Spain from the Arabs that lasted for several centuries), Mezquita was consecrated and turned into a Catholic church, making changes, among other things, to the architectural appearance of the building. The structure was especially heavily rebuilt in the 16th century during the reign of Charles V, when the cathedral nave appeared, made in the then fashionable Renaissance style. Fun fact: Charles V, when he saw the renovated cathedral, exclaimed: “You destroyed something great and built something completely ordinary instead.” Although you can’t call ordinary Mesquita by any means.
Day. Then head through the colorful tourist street Calles los Dianes to the second iconic attraction of Cordoba - the Alcazar of the Christian Kings, also known as the Cordoba Alcazar. Of course, this is also the former residence of the Arab rulers, which, like other fortress-palaces after the reconquista, became the residence of the Spanish kings.
Unlike the Alcazar of Seville, this royal residence has survived to a lesser extent and is more of a stone fortress than full-fledged interiors. But the garden adjacent to it is very good, with a beautiful alley of the Spanish kings.
Alcazar of the Christian Kings, Cordoba
From the Alcazar, it is convenient to walk along the riverfront to the Roman bridge, which was built after the famous Battle of Munda in 45 BC. This was the last battle in which Gaius Julius Caesar participated, after which he returned to Rome and single-handedly ruled the Roman Republic as a dictator.
From the bridge, continue to the left along the white streets of Cordoba, in the arches of which are hidden so characteristic of Andalusia, and Cordoba in particular, patios decorated with various architectural elements, be it columns, a fountain, a pond or benches decorated with ceramics. Patios began to appear in the Middle Ages with an aesthetic purpose - to create an atmosphere of protection from external threats, which was especially appreciated in those days (remember - the Arab conquest, the Reconquista and all things), to inspire feelings of calmness, tranquility, romanticism, comfort and bliss.
Evening. This time without tapas bars. Dine on Andalusian cuisine at the traditional restaurant Bodegas Campos (Calle Lineros, 32). And snacks, and meat, and fish, and desserts - everything is delicious there.
Day five. Granada, Granada, my Granada.
Morning. We take the Alsa bus (we buy a ticket in advance on the website, it costs about 15 euros, the journey takes up to three hours) and we go to Granada, about which the Soviet poet Mikhail Svetlov wrote (“He sang, looking around his native land:“ Grenada, Grenada, Grenada my!).
Day. Leaving your luggage at the hotel and refreshing yourself in any local restaurant, head to the Alhambra, an architectural and park ensemble that was the main residence of the rulers of the Nasrid dynasty, which ruled the Emirate of Granada here until the end of the 15th century. It is not so easy to get to the Alhambra because of its insane popularity among tourists. You need to take care of buying tickets on the official website much in advance (almost a month in advance) (a general ticket, which includes both the Nasrid Palace and the Generalife, will cost 14 euros). If you are late with the purchase, then do not rush to spend money on insanely expensive tours with guides: instead, you can buy a Granada Card tourist card for 37 euros, with which you can still enter the Granada Cathedral, the Royal Chapel and other attractions for free. Please note that when purchasing this card, you will need to indicate the time of visiting the Nasrid Palace and be strictly on site by this time.
Alhambra, Lion's Courtyard
Allocate at least three hours for a tour to see the Nasrid Palace, luxurious in its architectural decoration, and the Alcazaba citadel, from where grandiose views of the surrounding areas of Granada open, and the former residence of the emirs of Geniralife.
After visiting the Alhambra, go downstairs and head to the city center to reach the Granada Cathedral, a majestic building built in the Renaissance style, before six o'clock in the evening (with the Granada Card, admission is free, and you will also be given an audio guide). The cathedral is insanely beautiful, and El Greco and José de Ribera painted it. Pay special attention to the niches located around the perimeter of the temple, each of which is notable for either paintings or some Christian attributes.
Do not miss the royal chapel adjacent to the cathedral, where some of the most revered Spanish rulers - Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon are buried. This dynastic marriage between the daughter of King Juan II of Castile and the ruler of Aragon, Ferdinand, was the beginning of the unification of Spain into a single state. Under Isabella and Ferdinand, the triumph of the Spanish military forces ended the Reconquista and fell last stronghold Arab power in the Iberian land - Granada. And it was this royal couple who patronized the journey of Columbus, thereby opening the way for Spain to develop lands in the New World.
Evening. Do not go far from the cathedral - after crossing the central Calle Gran via De Collon you will find yourself in a small street called Calle Cetti Meriem, teeming with bars, in one of which you can have a pleasant evening (for example, you can visit Bar la Rivera).
Day six. In the footsteps of the Arabs in Granada.
Morning. After a delicious breakfast (those who cannot live a day without churros can go to Churrería Alhambra at Plaza de Bib-Rambla, 27, and for those who miss the traditional hipster breakfasts, I advise you to walk to Cafe Baraka at Calle San Jerónimo, 24 ) we set off to get acquainted with another beautiful building from the reign of the Arab Nasrids - Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo. Previously, it was one of the emir's palaces, and now it is a museum, where various expositions are periodically held.
Day. After we go for a leisurely walk to the Arab quarter of Albayzin. The hill on which the area is located was inhabited during the Roman rule in the territory of Andalusia, but it flourished precisely during the reign of the Arabs, when Albaicin became a quarter of merchants and artisans.
Albaycin
By the way, the area got its name not at all because of the merchants and artisans who inhabited it. Translated from Arabic, al-bayyāzīn means “falconry area”, because in ancient times there was a forest nearby (part of it is now preserved as the Alhambra Forest), where the locals liked to hunt.
Walking around the area, do not miss Mirador de San Cristobal Square, which offers a beautiful view of the Alhambra, Plaza Larga Square, where a market is always formed on weekends, where they sell all sorts of things, the beautiful local mosque Mezquita Mayor de Granada.
Evening. Do not rush to leave Albayzin. An obligatory point of the program is watching the sunset on Mirador San Nicolas Square, after which you can go to one of local restaurants with Arabic cuisine.
Day seven. Departure.
A separate day to calmly pack up, fly to Barcelona or Madrid, where there is still half a day left for shopping, in order to fly to Russia in the evening or in the morning the next day.
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Why go and what to see in Andalusia
Andalusia is the southernmost region of Spain, washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic. The cities of Andalusia are filled with history and extraordinary architectural sights, while the coast is famous for its endless sandy beaches and amazing landscapes. For the traveler, Andalusia is a region "two in one" - at the same time suitable for sightseeing holiday, and for the beach. And if beach season lasts from May to September inclusive, then a varied excursion is possible all year round, since the region has a mild climate and there is rarely bad weather.
The history of Andalusia is closely connected with the reign of the Moors in the early Middle Ages. It is not surprising that in many cities of the region, amazing monuments of Islamic heritage have been preserved, which are adjacent to typical Catholic churches and cathedrals (Spain is a traditionally Catholic country). Practically in all major cities Andalusia has its own alcazar (palace) and alcazaba (fortress). Andalusian cities that are definitely worth seeing include, in particular, Seville, Granada, Malaga, Cordoba, Cadiz and some other smaller towns.
Speaking about the beach component of the holiday, it is worth noting that almost unlimited opportunities open up for tourists here. The main beach holiday areas in Andalusia are the Costa de la Luz, the Costa del Sol and the Costa de Almeria. Each of the coasts has its own characteristics, and resort centers can be called such towns as Marbella, Cadiz, Almeria, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Nerja and others.
There are many sights in Andalusia that are not connected with the sea. For example, dozens of natural parks are located here, including the famous mountain park Sierra Nevada, national park Doñana, the coastal park of Cabo de Gata, the dunes of Tarifa and much more. Andalusia owes its diverse nature to the climate, which varies from the typical Mediterranean on the border with Portugal to the semi-desert on the territory of the Almerian Desert (by the way, the only one in Europe). Read also what other regions are popular for .
Martin Haisch/Malaga
Visa and entry rules to Spain
To enter Spain, a Spanish national or Schengen visa type C (tourist) is required. You can also get to Spain on a visitor visa (an invitation from the Spanish side is required). You can open a Spanish visa at the embassy or consulate of Spain (Moscow, St. Petersburg) or at numerous visa centers that are in almost every major city. In order to open a visa, you will need to collect a standard package of documents, take biometric fingerprints (directly upon submission of documents), issue (the sum insured is not less than 30 thousand euros). Return tickets and hotel reservations where you are going to be accommodated are also attached to the documents. As a rule, a visa is opened within a period of several days to two weeks, less often - longer.
The rules for entering Spain are standard in relation to Europe, since Spain is part of the Schengen area. During passport control, you may be asked to present a printout of travel insurance, hotel reservations, return tickets so you need to have them on hand. The rest of the procedure is standard and does not take much time.
harvey barriso/roman bridge Climate and weather in Andalusia
Most of Andalusia has a Mediterranean climate, with hotter weather in the continental part and less heat in the coastal part. sea breeze, in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada snow falls in winter, but in the desert of Almeria all year round you can observe "lunar" landscapes. Despite the wide variety of climatic zones, the weather in Andalusia is quite mild and one of the warmest in Europe, due to the proximity of Africa (across the strait).
Summer time in Andalusia is ideal for a beach holiday, the water on the coast warms up to comfortable temperatures closer to June and lasts until the end of September. It is also worth noting that cold currents can come to the Costa del Sol several times during the summer, but this phenomenon is not long in time. As for the Costa de la Luz, you can swim here starting from June, despite the fact that the coast is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The temperature reaches maximum comfort for swimming in July-August. The Costa de Almería opens the swimming season the earliest, as it has a semi-desert climate.
lucia.lence/sunset at St. Petri How to get to Andalusia
The most popular ways to get to Andalusia are flights to Malaga or Madrid. Malaga is located in the eastern part of Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol, from here it is convenient to relax in such resorts as Marbella, Benalmadena, Nerja, Torremolinos, Mijas, etc., as well as to explore Granada and Ronda. Madrid is located not in Andalusia, but in the neighboring region of Castile, from which it is convenient to get to cities such as Seville and Cordoba, as well as visit the resorts of the Costa de la Luz, including Cadiz, Huelva and Tarifa. There is a convenient railway connection between the cities, so you can get from one part of Andalusia to another in just a couple of hours. It is also worth noting that train travel in Spain is one of the cheapest in Europe.
Flights to Malaga and Madrid are carried out by both Russian and Spanish airlines. Flight time is approximately 5-5.5 hours from Moscow. There are also flights with transfers in European cities (such flights are usually cheaper than direct ones). You can also fly to Madrid and Malaga directly, in addition to Moscow, from St. Petersburg, from other Russian cities you will need a transfer in the capital. You can check the flight schedule for the desired route on the ticket booking services:
Planes land in Malaga at international Airport Costa del Sol, which is located 8 km from the city center. There are 3 terminals at the airport, aircraft from Russia are served by terminal number 3. You can get from the airport to Malaga and other resorts of the Costa del Sol by bus, suburban train or taxi. Bus stops and the railway station are located right at the terminal number 3, which is very convenient for landing. A taxi car can be found at the exit of the terminal, or you can order a transfer in advance.
On services And you can book a transfer service to any desired resort on the Costa del Sol (Marbella, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Mijas, Nerja and others). You can travel to other Andalusian cities from Malaga by train. So, the travel time from Malaga to Granada will be about 3 hours, to Ronda - 1 hour 50 minutes. Schedule - at the railway service .
Kamyar Adl/Marbella Public transport in Andalusia
For movement between the cities of Andalusia among public transport it is most convenient to use trains, because. this method is the fastest and most comfortable. Trains can reach almost any, even the smallest locality(although there are exceptions, for example, you can’t get to Marbella by train). Train timetable to desired city you can always check at the railway service . You can also travel between cities by regular buses, but the number of such routes is limited, and the travel time is much longer. You can see the bus schedule on the website Alsa and on the websites of several other regional carriers.
In the cities themselves within historical centers, where the main attractions are concentrated, you can move around on foot. In addition, major cities in Andalusia, such as Seville and Malaga, have a well-developed public transport network, including buses, metros and trams.
Min Zhou/Metropol Parasol Andalusia by car Rent a Car
Andalusia is a fairly large region by European standards, there are 8 provinces here at once, and all of them are interconnected by high-speed highways, along which you can easily, quickly and comfortably travel by car. In general, traveling around Andalusia by car is one of the best ideas for independent tourism. Firstly, by car you can get to such places in the region that are inaccessible by public transport, this concerns, first of all, . Secondly, when traveling by car, you can forget about not always convenient public transport schedules and travel at your own pace and rhythm. Thirdly, having a car at hand solves many applied problems, such as the issue of transfer, travel tickets for urban transport, etc. It is not surprising that car rental in Spain is becoming more and more popular year by year.
In order to rent a car in the cities of Spain, you must present a standard set of documents - a passport, a driver's license (international or national new sample with an entry in Latin) and a bank card to pay for services and block a deposit. The registration procedure itself does not take more than 20 minutes, and you can also be offered additional car insurance. A convenient option is the ability to book the desired class of car in advance. You can do this on car booking services, just select the city in which you plan to rent and actually the desired class of car:
Emilio/Motorways of Spain Cities of Andalusia
In Andalusia - every city is a real pearl of architectural thought. Even in small towns of the region, one can sometimes find unique historical monuments, to say nothing of large cities, which, in fact, are major tourist centers not only in Spain, but throughout Europe. The most visited cities in Andalusia are Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga and Cadiz. Read more about the attractions of each of them below:
- This administrative center Andalusia, its cultural and tourist capital with many historical monuments and architectural sights, some of which are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Holidays in Seville are a mixture of varied excursions, excellent cuisine, bullfighting and flamenco. The main tourist sites are the Alcazar of Seville, Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park, Metropol Parasol umbrella, Pilate's house, Torre del Oro tower, Maestranza bullring, Flamenco Museum and much more;
- a city where Moorish motifs and flaming Gothic mixed up, and the Mudéjar style was born. Granada boasts a huge number of UNESCO monuments, the main of which is the Alhambra of Granada and the ancient quarter of Albaciin. In addition, the Cathedral of Granada, the palace and gardens of the Generalife, as well as the Abbey of Sacromonte in the vicinity of the city, certainly deserve attention;
- a city that appeared back in time ancient rome and since then has experienced a rich history, and one of its most striking milestones was the kingdom of the Caliphate of Cordoba in the Middle Ages. Among the attractions of Cordoba are the Alcazar Palace, the Mezquita (Cathedral Mosque), the Roman Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, the Calahorra Tower, the Merced Palace. All objects are perfectly preserved and have survived to this day in their authentic form;
– port city and large tourist centre on the Costa del Sol. Here you can walk along the medieval streets and visit the fortresses and forts that defended the city, have fun on the Malagueta beach and go on a further journey along the coast, Malaga is called the “gateway” of the Costa del Sol for a reason. The top attractions of the city include the Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, the La Malagueta bullring, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro fortresses, Botanical Garden La Concepción, the old port of the city, and, of course, local beaches;
- is considered the most ancient city in Europe. Cadiz is located on the Atlantic coast, has breathtaking sandy beaches and a number of historical attractions that make the city unique and inimitable. Even though Cadiz can be seen as beach resort, for a sightseeing trip here is not fewer opportunities. The main objects of the city, in particular, include the Cadiz Cathedral, the Candelaria Bastion, the Genoese Park, the fortress of St. Sebastian, etc. The best beaches in Cadiz can be called Playa Santa Maria del Mar, Playa Victoria, Playa Cortadura and Playa Caleta;
LWYang/Granada - a picturesque town, lurking on sheer cliffs. Best Views Rhondas are natural. Tourists willingly go to the city to see famous bridge Punta Nuevo, which hangs over a rocky abyss, at the bottom of which the Guadalevín River flows. In this case, it would be fair to say that the Punta Nuevo arch bridge is better to see once than to hear about it a hundred times;
- this is the birthplace of the famous sherry drink, it is not for nothing that the city is often included in the route gastronomic tour across Andalusia. In addition to wine tasting, Jerez is definitely worth stopping by to see one of the largest Cathedrals in the region, walk around the local alcazar, visit the church of St. Michael and the Atalaya museum complex. Do not forget that hundreds of wineries are located in the vicinity of the city, which invite guests to taste their products;
- a small but very colorful town located in the vicinity national park Doñana and next to the Portuguese border. Huelva is not a typical Spain, there is a lot of English here, both in architecture and design. From what is definitely worth seeing in Huelva, one can name the Cathedral, the Roman aqueduct, the Church of St. Peter and, of course, the house of Columbus. There are also many attractions in the vicinity of Huelva, for example, the monastery of Santa Clara, the temple of the Virgin de la Cinta, the Doñana National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spacious sandy beaches of Huelva also cannot but fascinate;
- the main attraction of Tarifa is the starting point that separates the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This point is not symbolic, having arrived in Tarifa, you will really see how the translucent emerald water of the sea and the black blue of the ocean mix off the coast. Tarifa is the southernmost point of Europe, Africa begins through the strait, so it is not surprising that it is here that the local sandy beaches turn into real dunes and dunes. However, swimming here is not always comfortable, strong winds blow, but the place can be advised to all lovers of windsurfing and kiting.
steven gerner/Ronda Bridge Andalusia: beaches and resorts
Andalusia is one of the best places for a beach holiday in Spain. The beaches here are entirely sandy, golden, spacious, while surprisingly clean, well-groomed and, most importantly, free. Local authorities strictly monitor the cleanliness here, so many marked with the Blue Flag as the cleanest beaches in the world. Conventionally, the entire coast of Andalusia is divided into three large areas - Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light), washed by the Atlantic, Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun), washed by the Mediterranean Sea and Costa de Almeria, which is also washed by the Mediterranean Sea , but has differences in landscape due to the proximity of the Almerian desert.
Of the above cities, beach resorts, of course, include And with their amazing golden sandy beaches. Both resorts are located in the Costa de la Luz area, i.e. washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The swimming season here lasts from late May to mid-September, the best months for swimming are July and August, when the water near the coast warms up to maximum temperatures. More about other beach resorts in Andalusia:
- the resort is located on the Costa de la Luz, here the Guadalquivir River merges with the Atlantic, and here is the Doñana National Park. The best beach area can be considered a series of beaches Bajo de Guía, Calzada, Piletas and La Jara, as well as the beaches of neighboring Chipiona;
– a secluded resort on the Costa de la Luz with crystal clear white sandy beaches and calm waters of the bay. The best beaches you can search in the St. Petri area, which is considered a protected area;
- one of the most popular resorts coast of the Costa del Sol. The advantage of the resort is its developed infrastructure. The beach line of Marbella is sandy beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, equipped to the maximum, from sunbeds, umbrellas and deck chairs to equipment for aquatic species sports, bars, cafes and outdoor parties;
– main resort on the Costa de Almeria. This resort is quite young by the standards of Spain, but the modern infrastructure makes it very competitive. The main advantage of Almeria, in addition to its developed infrastructure, is the sandy beaches, inflated from the African desert. The coast of the Costa de Almeria is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, and holiday season lasts from June to September inclusive;
kevin pacheco/Beaches of Almeria - the second largest beach resort on the Costa del Sol after Marbella. The best beaches here are the beaches of Malapesquera Torrebermeya, Bil Bil, Arroyo de la Miel, La Viborilla, Las Yucas. Another advantage of the resorts is all kinds of entertainment complexes, natural parks and other activities that only Benalmadena can offer among the resorts of the Costa del Sol;
- the closest beach resort to Malaga is the Costa del Sol. The development of infrastructure, together with long sandy beaches, make Torremolinos a very popular place in the "high" swimming season. The beach line of the resort is conditionally divided into two parts - El Bajondillo in the east and La Carihuela in the west, both are great for swimming and relaxing;
- the resort is famous for its cleanest 8-kilometer beaches, listed in the Blue Flag. The coast is washed by the waters of Middle-earth, there is a gentle entrance to the sea, the place is great for family vacation, incl. with small children. The best beaches in Fuengirola are Los Boliches, Las Gavitolas, San Francisco and Torreblanca;
- a small but very comfortable resort on the Costa del Sol. The place is famous for its Mijas Costa coastline and Aquamijas water park. To visit the local water park, tourists come to Mijas from all nearby resorts, including Marbella and Fuengirola;
is both beach and sightseeing city. The beaches of Nerja are located in secluded sandy bays, which are sheltered from the winds, in addition, they are surprisingly picturesque. The bays are surrounded by local mountains, climbing which you can see breathtaking landscapes. It is not surprising that it is in Nerja that the "Balcony of Europe" is located, from which, in good weather, you can even see the coast of Africa. You should definitely visit the caves of Nerja, which are fraught with many surprises;
- the Costa del Sol resort, the most remote from Malaga, is suitable for those who are looking for solitude. The main attractions of Estepona are beautiful deserted beaches, snow-white houses of the old town, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Just think, the beaches of Estepona stretch along the coast for 22 kilometers, is this not a paradise for beach lovers!
rey perezoso/Caleta Beach Hotels in Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia has a well-developed hotel infrastructure. In large cities, you can find chain hotels, bed and breakfasts, and budget "twos" and "threes", while in resorts along the coast, a whole chain has lined up beach hotels with a full range of related features. The price category of hotels in Andalusia is considered quite democratic and is comparable, for example, with the prices of hotels in Catalonia. Also in Andalusia, such a type of accommodation as renting apartments has become widespread. Moreover, accommodation in apartments is popular, both in large cities such as Seville or Malaga, and in small towns on the coast.
You can find a suitable hotel / apartment in Andalusia, as well as check the availability for specific dates on specialized services for finding hotel offers:
Booking - hotel reservations in 120,000 destinations around the world;
roomguru — best deals from thousands of hotel booking sites.
When choosing a hotel, pay attention to such parameters as location, availability of a beach area (if it is a resort on the coast), type of food, parking availability (if traveling by car). In anticipation of the high season, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
elliott brown/Mijas Travel insurance
Going on a trip to Andalusia or any other part of Spain, do not forget to take out a travel insurance policy, which is mandatory already at the stage of registration tourist visa(must be presented when applying for a visa). You can take out insurance on your own without leaving your home. There are special services for this:
- online insurance for people traveling abroad and traveling in Russia;
- Oonline service for choosing and buying travel insurance with the ability to compare offers from various insurance companies;
You can buy a policy online and then print it on a regular printer. Insurance must be attached to the documents for a visa, you also need to have it with you at the time of passing through passport control upon arrival at the airport. Please note that the minimum amount of insurance coverage for a trip to the Schengen countries (including Spain) is 30 thousand euros. Medicine in Spain is paid and in each case can be very expensive, so having insurance with you is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Jorge Franganillo/Sacromonte District We will be happy to answer your questions in the comments!
Photo at the beginning of the article: Edmund Gall
Andalusia - the southern region of Spain, located on the Iberian Peninsula, where the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and the Strait of Gibraltar meet.
Traveling in the southern region of Spain is like buying a ticket to an endless celebration of sun and fun. The Romans, Greeks, Vandals, Moors and Kings of Castile have left traces in the history of the region for centuries, every town or village has a glorious past here. Plus Game of Thrones fans can take a ride on picturesque places filming in Almeria, Cordoba and Seville. It's wonderful here beach holiday: The coast of the Costa de la Luz ("Coast of Light") is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, and the Costa del Sol and the Costa de Almeria are washed by the Mediterranean Sea.
Andalusia is the birthplace of flamenco and bullfighting. The gastronomic richness of Andalusia will surprise you with a variety of tastes and smells, tell you that there are never too many snacks, and soup is not a hot dish. Spanish in Andalusia will be a new language for you, even if you learned and understood it before meeting with local residents. Andalusians swallow sounds and whole syllables, deliberately shorten words and change letters, simplifying and changing the language beyond recognition.
How to get to Andalusia?
You can fly to the southern region of Spain on direct and transfer flights from Russia. The main tourist airports are in Malaga, Granada and Seville. Barcelona and Madrid can be reached by bus, train or car.
When to go?
Andalusia is beautiful at any time of the year. True, from May to mid-October it is worth hot weather, the temperature rises above 35 degrees. This is the peak tourist season. Late autumn and winter in Andalusia is cool, rainy and average temperature 10-15 degrees. If you decide to visit the region at this time, then you should stock up on warm clothes and prepare for the lack of heating in the houses.
Best time for a trip to Andalusia - March-April and September-October, when there is no suffocating heat, but at the same time the weather is warm and sunny. With the February carnival, the season of holidays and fairs begins - an integral part of the Andalusian flavor.
Route
Andalusia is made up of eight provinces, many small towns and villages that can be talked about endlessly. For convenience, we offer you a route through the cities, without visiting which it is not considered that you have visited Andalusia.
Malaga
To discover Andalusia, go to the homeland of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas - Malaga. You can immerse yourself in surrealism, find out what cubism is, and get acquainted with the work of the famous Picasso in the 16th-century palace-museum - Buenavista, where about 300 works by the artist are exhibited (entry - 8 euros). An audio guide (included in the ticket price) will tell you in detail about the history and ideas behind the creation of each piece.
You should definitely take a walk around the Soho area. Here, emerald parrots fly overhead, someone's dream fantasies grow as graffiti on medieval ruins, houses turn into canvases for street artists. Urban project Malaga Arte Urbano Soho ( MAUS) actively contributes to the cultural transformation of the city and supports talented residents.
You can look at the coast and the Malaga bullring from above in the 14th-century eastern fortress of Gibralfaro (Castillo de Gibralfaro), located on the 142-meter-high mountain of the same name. Entrance will cost 2.2 euros. The road to Gibralfaro starts in the old part of the city and leads through the park.
Gibralfaro: Camino de Gibralfaro, 11
Wander among the stalls of the Central Market (Mercado Central). Hands will reach out to try olives, caramelized almonds, cheese and strawberries. Also on the market you should try local dishes: espetos de sardinas (grilled sardines), porra antequerana (cold tomato soup with garlic, pepper and olive oil), arroz negro (black rice with seafood), fig bread with nuts (pan de higo ) and tapas. For dessert, head to the old-fashioned Casa Aranda (open since 1932), which serves delicious custard churros with chocolate.
Central Market: Atarazanas, 10
Casa Aranda: Herreria del Rey, 3
Olvera
Feel like a hero of a fairy tale in one of the white cities (pueblas blancas) of Andalusia - Olvera, in the province of Cadiz. Snow-white slender houses with tiled roofs stretched between two hills. On one is an eastern castle of the 12th century with a panoramic platform on the surrounding valleys, on the other is a sand-colored church. Walking along the labyrinths of cobbled streets, inhaling the smell of tangerines, seeing how olives grow among the silvery foliage, living in an old house with wooden beams on the ceiling and walls cracked from old age is worth it to be in Olvera at least once. White City known throughout Andalusia for the production of the highest quality olive oil.
Caminito del Rey
One hour from Olvera is one of the most dangerous roads in the world - royal path. The road above the El Chorro gorge hung in the air at an altitude of 400 meters. In the 20th century, the Caminito del Rey was used to move people and materials between two power plants on either side of the gorge. The King's Path got its name after a visit by the King of Spain in 1920. The road collapsed several times and was generally closed to the public for a long time. Today it is a safe but breathtaking five-kilometer trail with eagles, vultures and falcons soaring overhead.
The road is open only for pedestrians and receives no more than 600 people a day. Therefore, you should think about buying tickets (10 euros) in advance, especially during the high season, from June to October, and purchase them on the official website.
ronda
Ronda is the city that inspired the writer Ernest Hemingway to write the story of the Spanish bullfight "Death in the Afternoon". Rhonda is frozen in time between two gorges above a raging river. new bridge(Puente Nuevo) connected the two parts of the city into one and became a place from which all the hypnotic beauty of the city is visible. The Spanish bullfight was born in Ronda and is the world's largest bullring - Plaza de Toros (Plaza de Toros), ticket price - 7 euros.
During the day, be sure to walk among the century-old mansions of the city, go down to the El Tajo Gorge to look at the city from below and see all the beauty of the green valleys. Visit the House of the King of the Moors (La Casa del Rey Moro) and the water shaft leading through the dark cellars into the gorge in Rondo. At the Wine Museum (Museo del vino de Ronda) you can taste local wines. In Alameda del Tajo Park, feel like a bird on a balcony overlooking the abyss, and in the evening dine at one of the cliff-top restaurants overlooking the city.
Plaza de Toros: Virgin de la Paz, 15
House of the King of the Moors: Santo Domingo Savio, 9
Wine Museum: Gonzales Campos, 2
Granada
In Granada, East and West met once and for all. Add to this the view of the snowy mountains of the Sierra Nevada, the gypsy quarters, the centuries-old history - and the city will definitely impress.
Look for the wealth of the eastern past in architectural complex Alhambra (Alhambra): Arabic script on the magnificently decorated arches and vaults of palaces, carved windows in luxurious halls, the elegance of interior squares and courtyards. The Alhambra offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the snowy mountains. You can walk around the complex not only during the day, but also at night, avoiding crowds of tourists (the cost of a day ticket is 13 euros, a night ticket is 8 euros).
Continue your journey through the East in the medieval Arab quarter of Albaicin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Oriental restaurants with embroidered pillows and carpets on the floor, dozens of types of fragrant tea and goods from all over the world will perfectly complement your walk.
In the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte, the hysterical voice of the guitar sounds, the clatter of the heels of flamenco dancers breaks the evening silence of the city. Here you can enjoy the best flamenco in the city. Walking around Sacromonte, you will notice old cave houses (cuevas) where people still live. The houses are built into the rocks and look very cozy despite their unusual location.
In Granada, the selection of local snacks (tapas) will surprise you with its variety. You will be offered free tapas in establishments when ordering a drink. Also be sure to try fried eggplant with honey (berenjenas con miel), Russian salad with tuna (ensalada rusa), beans with jamon (habitas con jamón).
For dessert, you can go not to a pastry shop, but to a monastery. Go inside any monastery (Monasterio San Bernando, Monasterio de Santiago), where there is a sign selling sweets. Ring the bell and ask for the selected sweet, put the money in, and in a couple of minutes your purchase will be given to you. Nuns are forbidden to show themselves to other people, so the conversation takes place through a closed window.
Seville
It is impossible to fully know Andalusia without visiting its capital and one of the oldest cities in the region - Seville. The city is located on both sides of the navigable river Guadalquivir, and Christopher Columbus himself went to map the New World from Seville. Plaza de España was the filming location for Star Wars: Episode II and Mission: Impossible 2. Also in the city, the actions of the famous operas "The Marriage of Figaro", "Don Giovanni" and "Carmen" take place.
Start exploring Seville in the Santa Cruz (Barrio de Santa Cruz) area, where squares, streets and houses echo the past. Most old bridge in Puente de Triana will take you to the area of flamenco and bullfighters - Triana. Here you will find atmospheric cafes, restaurants and nightclubs on Betis Street (Calle Betis), shops of famous Seville ceramics and a market (Mercado de Triana).
For modernity and observation deck(ticket price - 3 euros) go to the Metropol Parasol complex (Metropol Parasol). Its support columns lead like huge mushrooms to numerous restaurants, outdoor terraces, a farmers' market and archaeological museum inside the building.
It is recommended to learn for yourself all the cheerfulness of the Sevillanos - the inhabitants of Seville at the annual April Feria de Abril fair. It takes place 14 days after the Easter week. Sevillanos begin to prepare for the fair in advance, carefully considering traditional outfits and loading open carriages with horses. Seville turns into a cluster of colorful casetas - trading tents belonging to noble families, local parties and organizations. The festive atmosphere is created by local dances, fortified Andalusian wine - sherry, attractions, bullfighting in the Plaza de Torros and illumination over the main gate of the fair.
Triana Market: Calle San Jorge, 6
Metropol Parasol: Plaza de la Encarnacion
If you decide to travel around Andalusia by car, then be prepared that parking spaces in cities are not easy to find. Therefore, think over your route in advance and leave the car in public parking lots. You can see the parking lots on the Parkopedia website. And it is most convenient to move within cities on foot or by public transport.
In Spain shops other than large ones shopping centers and supermarkets, close for a lunch siesta during the daytime. On Sunday, most establishments are closed.
.Andalusia - a region in southern Spain, washed by the waters Atlantic Ocean, mediterranean sea and the Strait of Gibraltar. picturesque nature, majestic mountains, creating a unique landscape in combination with the sea, well-groomed and safe cities with well-preserved medieval buildings, beautiful resorts, the cleanest beaches, excellent ecology, hospitable people - all this attracts tourists from Andalusia different countries peace.
It is here that the traditions and customs of Spain are most clearly and multifaceted manifested with its romantic white stone streets, bright and passionate flamenco that originated in this area, indispensable gazpacho and famous sherry. However, in addition to Spanish culture, the development of Andalusia was influenced by many other ancient civilizations: Arabic, Jewish, Phoenician and Roman. All this is reflected in the unique monuments of history and architecture of the Andalusian cities.
Andalusia is the hottest region in Spain. In summer, the thermometer can rise to 37C. Even in September the temperature often exceeds 30C. Winters here are cooler - 16-18C, at this time of the year it often rains heavily. Lovers of mild, moderately warm weather are best to visit Andalusia in spring or autumn.
The nature of this region is characterized by an amazing variety of landscapes. Mountain peaks contrast with fertile plains, and desert areas give way to magnificent forests and lakes. Andalusia is rich natural parks and reserves, the largest of which are Doñana and Sierra Nevada. Of the plants in the region, the most common oak, pine, fir, eucalyptus, almond and olive trees.
The fauna of these places is no less rich. Through Andalusia lies the migration route of migratory birds, so here you can often meet feathered guests from all over the world. Of the mammals, there are deer, roe deer, mountain goats, rabbits, as well as many predators: wolves, foxes, lynxes, otters and others. Many natural areas are home to poisonous snakes.
What to see in Andalusia?
Even the most beautiful descriptions and photos of Andalusia cannot convey all the charm of these amazing places. The rich history of the region has given many cultural monuments And architectural ensembles. Magnificent nature and cities with snow-white houses immersed in orange orchards have become a source of inspiration for many famous artists, poets, and filmmakers. Cervantes, Merimee and Hemingway devoted their works to this magical land. The historical sights of Andalusia are concentrated in its main cities: Seville, Granada, Malaga, Cadiz and Cordoba.
One of the most famous attractions of this ancient city is the Alhambra - a palace and park complex built by Moorish architects, which is called the eighth wonder of the world. The Alhambra ensemble includes palaces, a fortress, squares, towers, beautiful gardens, pavilions, summer houses, picturesque courtyards, fountains. TO famous places this city also includes the gardens of the Generalife, the Renaissance Cathedral of Granada with the Royal Chapel, the ancient Moorish quarter of Albaicin.
The narrow streets of the capital of Andalusia have preserved the unique atmosphere of antiquity. The city is rich in unique architectural monuments, among which is the unique Alcazar Palace. For many years it was a royal residence, and today its doors are open to numerous visitors. Inside the palace there are luxurious halls, outside - landscaped gardens and cozy courtyards. The Seville Cathedral, one of the largest temples in the world with a rich Gothic altar, is very popular with guests of the city. More than 3 tons of gold was spent on its construction. Worth a visit and Torre del Oro - defensive tower fortifications, which is a real work of art.
The oldest city in Europe, founded by the Phoenicians about 3000 years ago, is divided into two main areas: new and old. New town is a resort area with clean sandy beaches, numerous retail outlets and entertainment venues. The old part of the city is a string of narrow streets leading to main square, on which the ancient Cathedral of the Holy Cross is located, combining elements of three architectural styles. The ruins of the fortress wall (VIII century BC) belong to the oldest local sights.
While in Cadiz, be sure to visit the fortresses of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina, the baroque church "Carmen", the Candelaria bastion with a beautiful view of the bay, the city museum, the exposition of which consists of archaeological finds, a rich collection of paintings and a unique collection of dolls, Plaza de España, Where is the monument to the Constitution located? Art lovers will appreciate the Oratorio Santa Cueva with two chapels, which houses the Francisco Goya triptych.
This city is known for its unusual location: it is located on the edge of a steep cliff above a deep gorge and seems to be hovering over an abyss. Among the sights worth seeing here is the symbol of the city - the New Bridge (Puente Nuevo), built across the Guadalevín River. From its height, wonderful views of the city center and the gorge open. Numerous mysterious legends are associated with the name of this bridge. Old city Ronda is rich historical monuments: here you can see the monastery of Santo Domingo, famous for the meetings of the Tribunal of the Inquisition in the old days, the Mondrachon Palace, which now houses the Museum of Primitive History, the ancient bullring, now not operating. It was in this city that the widespread Spanish tradition of painting houses white was born.
One of the main attractions of this coastal town is the Picasso Museum, who was born here. Tourists are also attracted by the city hall building, the ancient Moorish fortress Alcazaba, another fortress - Gibralfaro, standing on high mountain, which offers a magnificent panorama of the city and the Strait of Gibraltar, the Cathedral with rich interior decoration, the Bishop's Palace, the Roman theater of the 1st century BC, the car museum. In addition to ancient monuments, there are clean beaches equipped with everything necessary for recreation, both active and relaxing, as well as large shopping centers.
