The hilltop Alcazaba's hefty walls and towers dominate the city and command magnificent views over the old town below and across to the Mediterranean. Measuring 25,000m2, this was the largest fortress built by the Moors. The Alcazaba was founded during the first half of the 10th century by Cordoban Caliph Abd al-Rahman III, who also built Medina Azahara.
Almeria is one of the least-known provincial capitals in Andalucia. But lately this ancient port city has been experiencing a renaissance, thanks to an urban regeneration programme which started in 2007 and is scheduled to finish in 2013.
La Axarquia area is still breathtakingly beautiful and has not been spoilt by the interest and influx of foreigners. The main attractions are the area's dramatic hill and mountain scenery, its unspoilt, white washed villages and the strong sweet wine that is made from sun dried grapes.
The Costa de Sol can be divided into two parts: East and West, of Malaga city at the centre. The eastern Costa del Sol is much shorter, stretching from the provincial capital as far as Nerja, where it meets the Costa Tropical of Granada province.
The Serranía de Ronda is studded with charming pueblos blancos (white villages) that can be visited by car in a number of delightful day trips. The dramatically positioned town of Ronda, on the Tajo gorge, has become one of the most popular destinations in Andalucia.
Shopping in Marbella is about Fashion, Jewelry, Markets, Department Stores and Shopping Centres.
Marbella is known as a glamorous resort town and is a favourite location with the rich and famous, boosted by foreign residents who are seduced by the lifestyle. But there's plenty for ordinary folk to see and enjoy too in southern Spain's answer to St Tropez.
See below a selection of group excursions from Marbella. Perfect opportunities to see the major attractions in Andalucia without the hassle of having to organise it yourself.
If you're looking for no-frills, central accommodation there a number of hostals in Calle del Peligro which is just a short stroll from the Bajondillo beach. Some even have a sea view. In one of the liveliest areas around 24 hour square and Calle las Mercedes there are also many hostels but some will necessitate earplugs on a summer Saturday night.
See below a selection of group excursions from Torremolinos. Perfect opportunities to see the major attractions in Andalucia without the hassle of having to organise it yourself.
Ronda is a historic town which draws visitors to its stunning gorge, beautiful buildings and famous bullring. Many of its hotels are located on the cliff edge, with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. Within easy reach of the coast, Ronda is also not far from Seville and Cadiz. Enjoy a stopover in Ronda, or nearby, at one of these characterful hotels.
Ronda is one of Andalucia's loveliest towns, steeped in history. There is plenty to see beyond the view from the bridge over the plunging gorge which divides the town. Below are the main attractions and things to see in Ronda, and when is best to see them.
Despite being a growing town, Ronda retains much of its historic charm, particularly its old town. It is famous worldwide for its dramatic escarpments and views, and for the deep El Tajo gorge that carries the rio Guadalevín through its centre. Visitors make a beeline for the 18th century Puente Nuevo 'new' bridge, which straddles the 100m chasm below, before taking in the views from the Alameda out over the Serranía de Ronda mountains.
Gaucin is a spectacularly beautiful mountain village commanding sweeping views to Gibraltar and North Africa. The village is a gateway to the Serranía de Ronda where, depending on the time of year, you can enjoy an impressionist palette of colour.
Fuengirola is one of the Costa del Sol's most popular resorts, being just 25km from Malaga, located between Marbella and Benalmadena. This seaside town has an excellent selection of hotels for all your holiday needs, from five-star deluxe resorts, to more low-key family-run establishments and self-catering apartments.
Group excursions from Fuengirola. Opportunities to see the major attractions in Andalucia without the hassle.
Estepona has a growing selection of hotels. The most expensive and luxurious hotels in Estepona are the Kempinski and Villa Padierna, both a few kilometres to the east of the town. The H10 and the Hotel Fuerte Estepona are situated 2km west and are both frontline to the beach, ideal for families.
Estepona is the fishing village with lots of character and an interesting history, reflected by the large number of fascinating old buildings in town. However if you are more interested in the present than the past, don't worry, there is plenty for everyone to experience and enjoy.
At the western end of the Costa del Sol, Sotogrande, one of the most luxurious sports and residential developments in Europe.
Tarifa sits at the southern-most point of mainland Europe, where the Med meets the Atlantic. Just 14km across the Straits of Gibraltar at its narrowest point, the town enjoys spectacular views of the Rif mountains of North Africa, just across the water.
