One-Week Guide to Southern Spain: Exploring Four Unique Cities
Discover the charm of Southern Spain through my personal experiences exploring four cities rich in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic influences. Whether you're planning your own adventure or seeking inspiration, this guide has you covered.
Andalusia, located in southern Spain, is a region full of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. My husband and I recently spent one week exploring this beautiful part of the world, and we were captivated by what we found. Andalusia is a place where different cultures and religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—have come together over centuries, creating a unique and fascinating atmosphere.
Here’s a simple guide to what we did during our one-week trip, visiting four amazing cities that each have their own special charm.
Day 1-2: Wandering Through Cordoba
Our adventure started in Cordoba, a city famous for its long history and beautiful old buildings. We stayed in a cozy hotel right in the heart of the city, which made it easy to explore.
On the first day, we strolled through the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter, known as La Judería. The whitewashed houses with colorful flowers hanging from the walls made for a perfect afternoon walk. The next day, we visited the Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque-Cathedral). This building is one of the most important landmarks in Spain, and its mix of Islamic and Christian architecture is truly breathtaking.
Before leaving Cordoba, we made sure to visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress with beautiful gardens, and the Roman Bridge, which offers great views of the city. For lunch, we stopped by Mercado de la Victoria, a lively food market where you can taste all sorts of local dishes.
Day 3: The Beauty of Granada
Next, we headed to Granada, a city located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Granada is home to the Alhambra, a famous palace and fortress that is a must-see for anyone visiting Spain. We spent several hours exploring the Alhambra, walking through its beautiful palaces, courtyards, and gardens.
Even though our time in Granada was short, the visit to the Alhambra alone made the trip worth it. The city’s mix of cultures is clear in its food, buildings, and the lively streets.
Day 4-5: Relaxing in Jaén
Jaén was our next stop, a quieter city known for its olive oil production and peaceful atmosphere. We spent two days here, which gave us plenty of time to see the Jaén Cathedral and Santa Catalina’s Castle. The castle sits on a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding olive groves.
In the evenings, we enjoyed a glass of wine at a small restaurant in La Victoria. We also had a lovely dinner at Restaurante Parador de Jaén, which was a perfect way to end our time in this peaceful city.
Day 6-7: Enjoying the Vibrancy of Seville
Our final destination was Seville, the lively capital of Andalusia. Seville is full of beautiful sights, from the grand Seville Cathedral to the stunning Plaza de España. We climbed the Giralda Tower for amazing views of the city and spent time wandering through the lush gardens of the Real Alcázar.
Despite a bit of rain, our time in Seville was filled with joy. We even had lunch with my husband’s cousins, who live in the city, which made our visit even more special.
Wrapping Up: Andalusia’s Endless Wonders
Our week in Andalusia was unforgettable. Each city we visited—Cordoba, Granada, Jaén, and Seville—offered something unique, from rich history to vibrant culture and delicious food. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites or simply enjoying the local atmosphere, Andalusia has something for everyone.
This guide is just a starting point—there’s so much more to discover in this beautiful region of Spain. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, we highly recommend making Andalusia part of your journey.
