Sightseeing
Inland from the Costa del Sol is Andalucia's picturesque capital, Seville. Bask in the warm sunshine as you relax in one of the many pavement cafés that flank the orange-tree lined banks of the River Guadalquivir. Stroll through the tranquil grounds that surround the monumental Plaza de Espana and explore the Moorish treasures of the Alcazar, an exquisite citadel palace in the very heart of the city.
The city of Granada, meanwhile, plays host to one of Spain's most famous attractions, the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace. It's easy to see why locals refer to the Alhambra as the eighth wonder of the world. Set beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it's a delightful blend of lush gardens, shady patios and intricate Moorish stone masonry. Without a doubt, the palace is one of the most sensual pieces of architecture in Spain. Another Spanish gem within easy distance from the Costa del Sol is enigmatic Ronda. Spectacularly located upon a rocky outcrop, the city is famed for its 18th century bridge which spans the great gorge that separates Ronda into two. The El Mercadillo quarter is home to the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, and as such, Ronda has become the spiritual home of bullfighting.
Local Specialities
Southern Spain is the birthplace of tapas bars. Sometimes called 'pinchos', tapas are small bar snacks that are usually served as an accompaniment to a glass of sherry, wine or beer. Even the smallest of villages in Andalucia play host to at least one tapas bar where locals head in the evenings to enjoy a drink, a bite to eat and of course a chat with friends. Whet your appetite with 'jamon serrano', salt-cured ham that's dried out in the mountain air, or 'tortilla espanola', Spanish omelette made from potato and onions bound with eggs. Other tempting dishes include 'calamares fritos', deep fried squid rings drizzled with lemon juice, 'albondigas', meatballs served in a rich tomato sauce, and 'queso manchego', a mature sheep's cheese. Tapas are normally eaten standing rather than sitting down which adds to the vibrant atmosphere experienced in the bar.
Gibraltar
You'll be amazed what this famous Rock has to offer: barbary apes, the WWII tunnels and the dolphins in the Straits, not forgetting the Duty-free shopping in the British-style High street.
Market and Mijas
Fuengirola is the setting for the largest market on the Costa del Sol. You will be able to purchase anything from local leathers to lace for those special souvenirs. Then enjoy a trip to Mijas, a village with whitewashed houses, donkey taxis and the smallest bullring in Spain!
Moroccan Delights
Enjoy the day in what was once considered the most exotic place on earth! Experience the Kasbah, see men in traditional dress at work, spectacular carpets, herbalists and more. You will enjoy a typical Moroccan lunch in the best restaurant in town.
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Costa Del Sol
All You Need To Know
"From the stretching sands of exuberant Torremolinos to the chic allure of exclusive Marbella , the Costa del Sol is a vibrant mix of sun, sea and spectacular sights."
Andalucia embodies all that is typically Spanish...sun-soaked beaches, passionate flamenco dancers, Moorish castles, orange groves, proud matadors and sleepy whitewashed towns perched on dramatic hillsides. The Costa del Sol is the perfect gateway to this quintessential picture of Spain and offers so much more besides.
From the cosmopolitan marinas of Marbella to the top class golf courses of Fuengirola, from the glittering sands of Torremolinos to the lively tapas bars of Nerja, the resorts that make up Spain's 'sunshine coast' offer all ages a fascinating spectrum of sights and activities by day and night.
Beaches
Averaging 300 days' sunshine a year, it's little wonder that the Costa del Sol is widely acknowledged as the playground of Europe . The coastline is famed for its miles of wide, sandy beaches lapped by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean . Most offer a wide range of watersports if you're feeling energetic and sunbeds and parasols if you prefer to while away your days simply lazing in the sun. Torremolinos has a 7km stretch of unbroken sandy shoreline while Nerja is known for its pretty coves tucked under cliffs - perfect if you're looking for a little more seclusion.
Shopping
From small souvenir shops to smart boutiques, the Costa del Sol overflows with shops of all shapes and sizes. Marbella is the place to head if you're after classy designer wear while Malaga is home to a large shopping mall and a number of department stores. Fuengirola, meanwhile, stages a weekly street market every Tuesday. Leather goods are particularly good value, as is the ubiquitous Andalucian blue and white coloured pottery. Do remember to haggle with the street traders though in order to pick up some real bargains to take home as presents or momentos.
Nightlife
If you like to relax by day and party by night, you'll love the cheerful exuberance of Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Fuengirola. The streets are lined with an abundance of lively bars, discos and clubs where you can dance the night away, take to the stage in a karaoke contest or laugh at a comedian on the cabaret circuit. In contrast, evenings in Estepona, Nerja and Marbella are more low key. Visitors often prefer to enjoy the buzz of local tapas bars, the romantic allure of waterfront restaurants or the beguiling draw of a flamenco show where you can experience the compelling rhythm of a Spanish guitarist and the flashing moves of a dazzling dancer.
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