Andalusia Travel Guide
Andalusia offers the perfect mix of rich history, culture and landmarks that is sure to captivate any traveller.
Andalusia is an autonomous region in the south of mainland Spain, it has a population of over 8 million people and its capital is Seville. The main language is Spanish, but this region has a distinct dialect from the rest of the country known as 'Andalusian Spanish.'
Successive invasions and influences from the Romans to the Moors have left their imprint on the Andalusian landscape and culture, making for a fascinating journey through time. See the finest, well preserved Moorish architecture at the iconic Alhambra in Granada and the breathtaking Mezquita in Cordoba. Visit the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and learn more about the artist in Malaga, uncover the whitewashed buildings of Frigiliana and explore Seville, famous for flamenco, tapas and the Alcazar, a royal palace.
Check out some general information below that may inspire your next holiday to Andalusia.
Time Zone & Currency
Spain is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. The currency in Spain is the Euro.
Weather In Andalucia
Temperatures in Antequera during spring, early summer and autumn range from the early to late 20s centigrade on average.
Reading For Your Trip To Andalucia
The Hand of Fatima by Ildefonso Falcones
South from Granada by Gerald Brenan
Factory of Light by Michael Jacobs
Best time to go to Andalucía
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Andalucía, where it is warm and balmy, without the intense heat of peak summer. Temperatures in these seasons range from 15-25 degrees, ideal weather for sightseeing in Andalucía.
Top Tourist Attractions In Andalucia
Top Five Attractions in Seville
The vibrant capital of Andalucia, Seville continues to entice visitors with its architectural gems, beautiful gardens and culinary delights.
Virtual Tour of Andalucia
Our expert guide Alex takes us on a tour of the beautiful Andalucía. This virtual tour will take you from the moment you arrive at the airport, to the hotel and and some of the excursions that are included.
Food & Drink In Andalucia
Eating and drinking is a major part of Andalusian culture with plenty of flavoursome food available influenced by the area’s Moorish heritage. Along the coastline, delicious fish and seafood are widespread. While further inland, rich stews, jamones (cured hams) and game are preferred. Wherever you are, however, there is no better pleasure than joining the regulars at a local bar to wind down over a glass of fino (dry sherry from Jerez) while nibbling one of Andalucía’s world famous tapas or olives. Some of Travel Department’s favourite tapas include Tortilla Española, an omelette with potatoes and onion and Gambas al Ajillo, prawns cooked in a garlic and chilli sauce.
Andalucia Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Andalucia?
Andalucía has a long and colourful history going back over thousands of years. Neanderthal paintings in the Caves of Nerja is evidence of the earliest human settlement, the Phoenicians established trading routes on the coast and the Roman Empire ruled between the 3rd and 5th century BC. However, it was the Moors who ruled for 800 years that left a lasting legacy. The Moors, who were Muslim of Arab and North African descent influenced language, culture, music, food and contributed to grand architectural sites like the Alhambra and the Mezquita. 1492 marked the end of the Moorish Rule, where Granada was the last city to fall to the Christians during the Reconquista campaign. Spain's overseas colonisation brought wealth to Andalucia, but years later it suffered periods of economic and social unrest during the Napoleonic Wars, the Spanish Civil War and the dictatorship of Franco.
I have walking difficulties, is a holiday in Andalucía suitable?
Our guided tours in Andalucía will involve periods of walking and standing, at times on uneven or cobbled surfaces. There will be steep inclines or steps to negotiate at some locations. A reasonable degree of health and mobility is required. For all our tours we have an activity level guide to help you decide which holiday suits you best. For specific advice regarding our Andalucía tours and to discuss any special needs, please contact us directly and we will be happy to assist you.
Is Andalucía a good holiday destination?
Andalucía is a fantastic holiday destination which caters to all interests. It combines the interesting historical and cultural highlights of Seville, Granada, and Cordoba with the golden beaches of Nerja & the Costa de la Luz. It is one of the best places to experience an authentic Spanish holiday.
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Spain please see: www.dfa.ie
- Official Spanish Tourism Board: www.spain.info
