Each year on February 28, the southern region of Spa
in, which is called Andalusia, celebrates el Día de Andalucía, or Andalusia Day, which is in honor of the day Andalusia officially became an autonomous community back in 1980.
Glamping Hub is proud of the fact that we not only have an office based in Seville, the capital of Andalusia, but also that our CEO is from here! To celebrate this regional holiday, we’d like to show you five of our favorite cities in the beautiful southern region of Spain.
Where to visit
1. Seville
As previously mentioned, Seville is the capital of Andalusia and definitely not one to miss on your travels in southern Spain. Rich with history and culture, Seville holds the largest Gothic church in the world, with its bell tower, La Giralda, giving arguably the best views of this stunning city.
You can’t go to Seville and not try the amazing local tapas, overwhelmed for choice as you meander the many small streets, each with buildings of their own unique character.
The Plaza de España, originally built for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo, is now one of the most-visited attractions in all of Spain. Rent a small boat and row the canal that lines the building to experience a different perspective of the incredible architecture.
2. Cádiz
Cádiz is the perfect pick for those who love to be at or near the beach, especially on those hot summer days! Known as the oldest inhabited city in the whole of Europe and home to the Spanish Navy, the city boasts over 100 watch towers, due to the fact that it is almost entirely surrounded by water. When here, be sure to visit the Cadiz Cathedral—it took 116 years to build, which can be seen throughout the changes in the style of architecture.
If seafood is your thing, you cannot leave here without eating it! No matter if from one of the local fish markets or a restaurant, the quality of the seafood here is bound to impress.
If you happen to be here during the Carnival of Cádiz, you’re in for an additional treat. Music can be heard from all around the city, and exuberant costumes are worn in celebration—basically just one big fiesta!
3. Córdoba
Córdoba was one of the most important Roman cities during the Middle Ages and is known best in present day for its courtyards home to stunning and vibrant flowers and plants, all beautifully displayed. In fact, there is a local celebration each year in May called the Patios de Córdoba, where the city’s courtyards, most of which belong to people’s private homes, are put on display—proudly showing off one of the city’s claims to fame.
The Mezquita of Córdoba is truly stunning, both in its physical design and the history and culture behind it. Built in the 10th century, the structure was first a mosque that was later turned into a cathedral—making a visit to this historical monument is well worth the entry price.
4. Granada
Referred to as Spain’s “Moorish Jewel,” Granada is one of the most-visited cities in Spain by tourists from all around the world. A trip to the majestic Alhambra, a former palace and fortress that will make your jaw drop, is in order—especially when coupled with the Sierra Nevada mountains as the backdrop.
Catching the sunset at the Mirador de San Nicolas is a favorite among tourists and locals alike—one that typically includes a flamenco treet performance of flamenco as background music while the sun goes down. Meanwhile, the Alcaicería holds the Great Bazaar in Granada, where, since the 15th century, stalls have sold vibrant clothing and souvenirs, allowing its patrons to feel the city’s intrinsic connection with northern Africa and Moorish culture.
5. Málaga
Málaga is a diverse city, from the incredible modernization of Spain’s oldest operating port to the charming streets of the old town. While in the city, you have to visit the Alcazaba, a Moorish palace and fortress from the 11th century, which sits up on the hillside and holds secret courtyards and stunning views of the city and ocean.
Alternatively, you can immediately head to any one of the many fantastic beaches on the Costa del Sol, i.e., the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With 15 beaches within the city limits, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, including the Playa de Guadalmar and the Playa del Campo de Golf-San Julián, which is popular with the area’s kite-surfers.
Eager to see more of Andalusia? Check out our complete collection of glamping accomodations across the south of Spain!
