Andalusia Road Trip Planner & Guide: Sevilla to Cordoba

From lively festivals to diverse architecture & cultural history, this Andalusian road trip will leave you breathless. It comes as no surprise that over two million visitors a year vacation here. Stretching across the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Andalusia has played host to numerous empires across the ages that have left beautiful, indelible marks upon the region.

Branch out from the package tour and explore its whitewashed villages and rich cultural defining traditions--from bullfighting to tapas to flamenco dancing. Andalusia is a captivating and romantic provence you'll be loth to miss out on so book your private rental car in Spain with Auto Europe and prepare to venture on the road trip of a lifetime.

Read on to Drive to Discover Spain's Andalusia Region

 

Andalusia Road Trip Day 1: Sevilla to Malaga

Sevilla Events & Attractions:

In terms of impressive architecture, Sevilla is second to none. Not only is the world's largest cathedral, Seville Cathedral, located in Sevilla, but myriad other architecture wonders. The hardest part of visiting Sevilla is deciding where to go first. With so many incredible attractions at your fingertips, a Sevilla rental car only makes sense.

Sevilla Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife:

Traditional of Spain, you can always find tasty tapas (small plates) to sample throughout the night and the riverside district of Triana is an excellent place to visit as it's packed with rustic bistros and tap houses galore. Beyond tapas, another regional specialty not to be missed is the Sherry--a fortified (meaning Brandy is added) wine.

• Mesón Cinco Jotas: Not-to-miss authentic jamón

• Extraverde: Locally made cheese

• Bar Santa Ana: Good for Sports fans, bullfighting décor

• Bar Bistec: Seafood, (grilled fish, cod fritters, calamari)

Sevilla Hotels & Lodging:

• Fontecruz Sevilla: 5-Star Hotel, pricey, centrally located, terraces, elegant décor, views of Sevilla's most popular tourist attractions

• Gran Melia Colon: 5-Star Hotel, luxury, blends tradition and modern 

• Barcelo Renacimiento: 5-Star Hotel, lavishly appointed rooms 

Andalusia Road Trip Day 2: Malaga to Granada

Malaga Events & Attractions:

Malaga was founded in the 8th century and while keeping with its roots and plenty of historic Moorish influence, it is also a hotbed for art of every kind (from glass and crystal to classic cars).

Malaga Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife:

Malaga plays host to a largely exuberant nightlife and you can easily find your place to party at any of the bars near Plaza de la Merced, Plaza Mitjana and Plaza de Uncibay.

• La Rebaná: Centrally located, tapas, unique dishes (foie gras with salted nougat)

• El Tapeo de Cervantes: Fresh dishes (artichoke and goat cheese quiche with basil pesto)

• Aire Gastrobar: Vast range of Mediterranean fare

Malaga Hotels & Lodging:

• Vincci Posada Del Patio: 5-Star Hotel, located in the historic city center, lustrous & modern luxury

• Cortijo Chico: 4-Star Hotel, 15 kilometers from the city center, tranquil gardens, spacious & bright rooms 

• Malaga Centro: 4-Star Hotel, centrally located, includes rooftop pool   

Andalusia Road Trip Day 3: Granada to Cordoba

Granada Events & Attractions:

The ancient Muslim capital of Granada still displays the best of its Islamic influences, evident from the heavy-presence of Moorish architecture, tiled facades, and modern bazaar-style markets.  

Granada Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife:

Amazingly, many of the city's bars still keep to the fading tradition of serving a free tapas plate with the purchase of beer or wine. Plenty of delicious options are available to you as well if you're looking for a more substantial meal, such as at Carmen--a restaurant within one of the Albayzín's magnificent walled gardens overlooking the Alhambra. 

• Calle Navas: Affords a variety of bar hopping opportunities

• Restaurante Arrayanes: Moroccan meals with an exciting setting

• Carmen Mirador de Aixa: Fine dining

Granada Hotels & Lodging:

• Fontecruz Granada: 5-Star Hotel, refurbished Renaissance façade with modern interior

• Vincci Granada: 4-Star Hotel, cozy and affordable, contemporary  

• Casa Del Capitel Nazari: 3-Star Hotel, 16th century palace, posh Moroccan-style rooms

Andalusia Road Trip Day 4: Cordoba & Beyond

Cordoba Events & Attractions:

Welcome to Córdoba, where the central Mezquita represents a unique cultural combination that joins Roman and Visigoth influences with the rich impact of Islamic medieval architecture--like it's Mihrab and Torre del Alminar.

Cordoba Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife:

Insider's secret: Venture into the Jewish Quarter for the best restaurant values in town.

• Restaurante El Choto: Grilled meats, offers fixed price as well as tasting menus for any appetite

• Casa Mazal: Jewish cuisine, modern feel, good for vegetarians

• Taberna San Miguel El Pisto: Traditional Spanish dining, tapas, old-school ambience

Cordoba Hotels & Lodging:

• Hacienda Posada De Vallina: 3-Star Hotel, period furniture immerses you in medieval Córdoba, tucked near the Mezquita 

• Nh Califa: 3-Star Hotel, business-class accommodations 

• La Hospedaría de El Churrasco: 3-Star Hotel, close to the Mezquita, peaceful and relaxed

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