Self-drive tour: highlights & hidden gems of Andalucia

Seville

Day 1: Welcome to Seville

Welcome to Spain! Upon your arrival at the airport in Seville, a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel, about 25 minutes away. Take time to check in and relax after your travels.

In the late afternoon, enjoy total immersion into one of the most authentic and traditional neighborhoods in Seville: Triana, where you'll dive into the wonders of food and dance. Discover why Triana is the true home of tapas, and experience the mysteries, emotion and power of flamenco.

You'll take a private masterclass to learn the basic steps of flamenco with an expert dancer, before heading out to explore family-run taverns away from the tourist trail. Over plates of acorn-fed Iberian ham and other local delicacies and wines, immerse yourself into the laid-back local lifestyle!

Seville

Day 2: Splendid sightseeing in Seville

Today, a guide will pick you up for a private tour of the old part of the city, Santa Cruz and its most emblematic monuments. Tour the Santa Cruz quarter, the former Jewish quarter of the medieval city, and the Cathedral of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 15th century. Finally you'll visit the historic Royal Alcázar, known as one of the film sets for Game of Thrones.

Spend the afternoon at leisure in Seville: wander around quaint winding streets, visit centenary shops and ceramic workshops in the Triana quarter, or ascend the Metropol Parasol for some of the best sunset views of Seville. The options are endless!

Seville - Vejer De La Frontera

Day 3: Your self-drive adventure begins!

This morning, your driver will transfer you to the rental car office, where you will collect your vehicle and begin your self-drive around the gems of Andalucia. Take a drive down the western coast, past Cádiz and on to Vejer de la Frontera. Horseback riding on the beach and cooking classes can be arranged along the way for an extra charge.

Make a stop in Cadiz, considered to be the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe. Explore its jumble of sinuous streets as Atlantic waves crash against eroded sea walls, cheerful taverns fry up fresh fish, and salty beaches teem with sun-worshippers. Stop for a swim or kitesurfing experience on the wild beaches of the Costa de la Luz, such as Bolonia Beach in Tarifa. Finally, end your day in Vejer de la Frontera, a mesmerizing whitewashed village with a stunning hilltop location.

Vejer De La Frontera - Ronda

Day 4: A scenic journey to Ronda

Today, take a drive around the beautiful Grazalema mountains, where a landscape of greenery, rocks and rivers merges with beautiful whitewashed villages. Go from village to village, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere as you meander through narrow streets and open squares. Venture through stunning surroundings of lush Mediterranean woodlands and high mountain passes, on your way to the mountaintop city of Ronda.

Upon arrival in Ronda, check into your hotel - a traditional Andalucian country house that also produces olive oil. You'll be able to visit the on-site groves and oil mill, and learn all about the secrets to making this liquid gold. Alternative experiences can be enjoyed in Ronda, such as hiking with a picnic lunch, a visit to a boutique winery, and a cooking lesson amidst vineyards or in a private home.

Ronda - El Caminito Del Rey - Granada

Day 5: The landscapes of the Caminito del Rey trail

This morning you will drive to El Caminito del Rey in Ardales, about 45 minutes away. A local guide will be waiting there to begin your hike of this unique trail along a deep gorge, once considered the most dangerous path in the world. Recently refurbished and now absolutely safe, it's a great and unique way to admire the stunning natural landscape carved by the river for thousands of years.

After the hike, you'll continue on to Granada, less than two hours' drive away. Check into your hotel there, and spend the rest of the day relaxing at leisure.

Granada

Day 6: Soak up the sights in Granada

This morning, you will pay a visit to Granada's iconic Alhambra Palace and Generalife gardens! As a historic monument, the Alhambra is unlikely to be surpassed. It's a remarkable place where fountains trickle, leaves rustle, and ancient spirits seem to mysteriously linger, enchanting all who visit its grounds.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to keep exploring the beautiful city of Granada. Do not miss a walk around the old quarters of Albaicín and Sacromonte, and be sure to visit the Arab hammam baths for a unique sensory experience steeped in history.

Granada - Malaga Airport

Day 7: Goodbye, Spain

Check out of your hotel for a self-transfer to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, where you'll drop off your rental car and take your flight back home. Depending on your departure time, you may get to stop at one or two lovely spots along the drive: Frigiliana, one of the most charming whitewashed towns in Andalucia, and Nerja, a beautiful coastal gem where you can tour its caves or take a walk along the beach.