Holiday in Andalusia: my favorite tips after 25 years of experience

My parents have a holiday home there, so I visit the beautiful south of Spain almost every year. Are you going on vacation to Andalusia? Then I have the perfect tips for you.

Flying to Málaga

We always fly to Málaga. I have really seen the city change over the years – it is now a vibrant city with more and more to offer. It is still a port city, so you have to look a bit harder for beautiful beaches, but it is definitely worth it. And if not? Then there is always that beautiful coastline of Andalusia, which I personally find much prettier, wider, and more extensive than elsewhere in Spain.

1. Málaga

The birthplace of Pablo Picasso is a lovely place for a stay of three to four days. Since 2003, Málaga has its own Picasso Museum, close to his birthplace. The museum was made possible by his family, and many of the works are family-owned. The collection mainly showcases works from his early and later periods.

A must-do is a visit to the Moorish fortress Alcazaba. This medieval castle is located on the slope of the Gibralfaro mountain and can be visited for €3.50 – right in the center. The cathedral of Málaga is also highly recommended.

For a drink, it's super fun to go to the highest rooftop of Málaga, namely that of the Marriot Hotel. You don't have to stay here to visit the bar (with a mini pool), and the view is amazing – especially during sunset. From there, you can easily walk to the harbor Muelle Uno, where you can enjoy a nice meal. For more tips on what to do in Málaga, see here.

And if you are not afraid of heights? Then you really have to take a walk on the Caminito del Rey. In 1921, King Alfonso XIII opened this King's Path at the Conde del Guadalhorce dam. Note: book this as soon as you know you want to go, as tickets sell out quickly.

2. Alhambra, Granada

The Alhambra in Granada should, in my opinion, be on the list of world wonders. This beautiful medieval palace is so special, it continues to move me – even after multiple visits. Book your ticket well in advance online, as it is popular and fills up quickly.

3. Ronda

Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Andalusia, and is literally split in two by a river. From the Puente Nuevo – the famous bridge that spans the El Tajo gorge – you have an incredible view. Ronda is romantic, historic, and unique. You can easily make a day trip from the coast (about 50 km inland).

4. Marbella

Ah, Marbella. It is beautiful, but it also has a slightly bad reputation – and to be honest, that's not entirely unjustified. Over-the-top beach clubs, lots of money, and even more luxury. But that secretly makes it fun too. Especially the old town is beautiful, with the famous Orange square where you really have to go eat.

The famous marina Puerto Banús is a bit further on. Here you spot Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, and Ferraris as if they are nothing. Perfect for an end of the afternoon – just strolling around, having a cocktail, and people-watching. Tip: take the catamaran from the old town to Puerto Banús and lie comfortably on the nets. So much fun! We do this every visit to Marbella.

Designer shopping in Marbella

If you love designer stores, then you are definitely in the right place in Marbella. Especially in Puerto Banús, you will find all the big names. Think of Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Saint Laurent, Prada, Hermès, Jimmy Choo, and Chanel. The shopping streets around the marina are super cozy for an evening – with a view of the yachts and sports cars. Many of these stores are open late, especially in the high season.

Hotspot alert: the best beach clubs in Marbella

Do you also want to know: these are real in-crowd beach clubs in Marbella:

• La Plage Casanis – chic, beachy, and perfect for long lunches with rosé
• Siroko Beach – relaxed atmosphere, feet in the sand, and surprisingly good food. Always a DJ and live musicians.
• El Chiringuito – stylish beach club with a view and a top menu
• Trocadero – multiple locations, all equally Instagram-worthy
• NOBU Marbella – for when you want to combine sushi and celebrity spotting
• Rachel’s Eco Love – Favorite!! Healthy food, pastel colors, and a hidden gem at Puente Romano
• Café Cappuccino – Also my favorite. Iconic sea view, great coffee, and a lovely terrace

5. Gibraltar

All the way in the south of Spain lies Gibraltar, a piece of England under the Spanish sun (yes, bring your passport!). After customs, it feels like you step right into London, with English taxis, pubs, and red phone booths. Why do you want to go here? The monkeys on The Rock. The cheekiest and cutest Barbary macaques climb all around you.

6. Mijas

Of all the white villages in Andalusia, Mijas is my favorite. The car-free streets, white houses, and blue flower pots are so photogenic. At the edges of the village are beautiful botanical gardens, and during sunset, you have a unique view over the Costa del Sol.

Mijas is known for its donkeys, but personally, I find that no longer acceptable. Unfortunately, it remains popular with tourists. Mijas is only 9 km from the coast, so you can also visit it perfectly for an evening. That is really enough.

For me, southern Spain is truly a wonderful holiday destination. From Málaga, you can go in all directions — there is so much to see and do, much more than I could describe above. Andalusia is beautiful and fun in every way. Moreover, you have more certainty of sunshine here than in many other destinations. That is exactly the reason why my parents chose to buy a house there.