Discover the magic of Costa del Sol and the best attractions of Andalusia
Costa del Sol, which means „Sunny Coast,” is a picturesque stretch of the coastline in Andalusia that runs along the Mediterranean Sea. This region is known for its excellent climate, boasting over 300 sunny days yearly. It offers a wealth of tourist attractions, from luxurious resorts to charming traditional towns. The capital of the region is Malaga. However, Costa del Sol is not just Malaga – it also includes luxurious resorts such as Marbella and Fuengirola, which delight tourists with their atmosphere, stunning beaches, and excellent restaurants.
Andalusia, the region where Costa del Sol is located, is a true gem of Spain. Its unique culture, flamenco traditions, and delicious cuisine make every visitor feel like they are in a fairytale. In this entry, I invite you to discover the most beautiful corners of Costa del Sol and the fascinating attractions of Andalusia that will make every trip unforgettable. Prepare for an extraordinary adventure that combines nature’s beauty, history’s richness, and memorable experiences!
Where is Costa del Sol located?
Costa del Sol is a Mediterranean coastline stretching between Gibraltar and Cabo de Gata.
Where is Andalusia located?
Andalusia is an autonomous region in southern Spain that includes, among other things, the Sierra Nevada Mountain range and the Costa del Sol coastline.
What's worth seeing in Malaga?
Malaga was our base, and our apartment was located near the unattractive Playa Las Acacias on the outskirts of the city. In the center of Malaga, there is Playa de la Malagueta, which looks much better. The most beautiful beach, Playa de la Misericordia, is a bit further from the center, but unfortunately, we discovered it only at the very end. It is worth staying here for a longer period.
Malaga is primarily about history and culture. Here are some attractions worth seeing:
The Alcazaba is a medieval fortress that offers a great viewpoint of the city. Built in the 8th century as a fortress to protect the city from pirates, the castle later served as the residence of Moorish and Catholic rulers. Today, visitors can admire archaeological collections and beautiful gardens.
The Cathedral of La Encarnación (La Manquita) is one of the most important buildings in Malaga. Construction began in the first half of the 16th century in the Gothic style at the request of the Catholic Monarchs and continued into the 17th and 18th centuries. It is possible to tour the interior of the cathedral and access the roof during a guided tour.
The Roman Theatre was built in the 1st century BC and was rediscovered by archaeologists in the 20th century. The structure was destroyed because the Moors used it as a quarry for building the Alcazaba. There is a free viewpoint above the theatre.
Castillo de Gibralfaro was built in the 14th century to protect the citadel, with which it is connected by a wall. From the free viewpoint, we can admire the view of Malaga and the sea. At the very top, there is a 17-meter-tall Torre Mayor, a Phoenician well, and baths (entrance to this area requires a fee).
Málaga is called the “City of Museums” because we can discover about forty of them there. Here we can find the Picasso Museum, where you can see more than two hundred works by the artist, the Centre Pompidou, the first foreign branch of the famous French Museum of Contemporary Art. The museum building is very original, as it is a colorful glass cube, so it is impossible to miss it while walking around the city.
Among the famous figures born in Málaga are Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas. Actor Antonio Banderas is very attached to his hometown, where he owns several apartments. He regularly visits Málaga, especially during Semana Santa, and actively participates in the processions.
In search of beautiful beaches, we decided to rent a car and explore the coastline.
What else to visit on the Costa del Sol?
Marbella – A Luxury Resort for the Wealthy and Celebrities
Marbella is one of the most popular luxury resorts in Spain, known not only as a destination for the wealthy but also as a home to many global and Polish stars and celebrities. This unique place attracts attention due to its beautiful landscapes, wonderful weather, as well as its rich history and culture.
One of the most interesting points in Marbella is the Old Town, known as Casco Antiguo. This charming area is very popular among tourists. Here, you will find monuments from the 16th century, and the heart of the old town is the Orange Square (Plaza de Los Naranjos), perfect for relaxing with a cup of coffee surrounded by beautiful citrus trees.
Near Marbella is La Concha, a mountain with an elevation of 1,215 meters above sea level, which creates a unique microclimate. The city enjoys stable weather, and winters are mild, making it suitable for water sports and people with health issues. Reaching the summit of La Concha requires about 6 kilometers of hiking on a challenging trail.
Alameda Park (Parque de Alameda) is the green lung of Marbella, occupying as much as 20% of the city’s area. Here, you can admire a variety of plant species, such as Ficus Pandurata and Pinus Pinae, as well as the fountain Fuente de la Virgen del Rocío. During our visit to Marbella, we had the opportunity to participate in entertaining events where musicians played on the streets, and locals and tourists enjoyed food trucks and admired live flamenco dancing.
Marbella is famous for its clean and spacious beaches, and particularly Puerto Banus attracts with its exceptional tranquility and luxury, where celebrities are often spotted. The luxurious Puerto Banús marina is a place where exclusive yachts dock and the surrounding area features shops and bars offering only the best. In this area, you can easily find restaurants serving exquisite dishes.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Marbella is Playa Nagueles, with its stunning golden sand.
For those seeking even more luxury, the perfect place for a walk is the Golden Mile – a 6-kilometer street where the wealthiest have their properties. Notably, there is a residence that resembles the White House – it belongs to the King of Saudi Arabia.
Thanks to all these attractions and advantages, Marbella has become home to many famous personalities, including Novak Djokovic, Antonio Banderas, Erling Haaland, George Clooney, Hugh Grant, Dolph Lundgren, and Julio Iglesias. All of this contributes to Marbella having one of the highest incomes per capita in Europe.
Fuengirola – A Charming Resort on the Costa del Sol
Fuengirola is a popular tourist resort in Spain, known for its beautiful promenade that stretches along the sandy beach. This place is vibrant, offering numerous attractions for tourists and locals alike. I believe that the beaches of Fuengirola are among the prettiest on the Costa del Sol, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
It is worth noting the Sohail Castle, which is a landmark of the city and an excellent example of medieval architecture. The castle not only attracts tourists but also serves as a magnificent backdrop for many local events and festivals.
The panorama of Fuengirola is incredibly picturesque, as the Arab buildings harmoniously blend with the surrounding rocks. This unique landscape makes Fuengirola an ideal place for holidays and romantic getaways.
I must admit that this charming town has stolen my heart. Fuengirola combines everything one could expect from an ideal resort – beautiful beaches, a fascinating history, and a wonderful atmosphere. When planning a visit to the Costa del Sol region, Fuengirola certainly deserves a spot on the list of places to visit!
Torremolinos – The Oldest Resort on the Costa del Sol
Torremolinos is the first tourist resort that emerged on the Costa del Sol and is known as one of the most tolerant cities in Andalusia. This place is particularly appreciated by the LGBT community, where most bars and clubs are gay-friendly. The city hosts numerous events, and in June, one of the largest Pride Parades in Spain takes place.
Beyond its vibrant nightlife, Torremolinos offers many other attractions. It is worth visiting the pleasant beaches that are perfect for water sports. The promenade along Calle San Miguel invites strolls, and Aqualand is an ideal spot for families with children. Nature lovers should check out the Crocodile Park, where you can see the largest crocodile in Europe named Paco, as well as Parque la Bateria, which features bunkers and cannons from the Spanish Civil War era. The San Miguel Arcangel church, built in 1718, is also noteworthy for its stunning architecture.
Torremolinos is the perfect place for those who wish to combine beach relaxation with active nightlife and a rich cultural and entertainment offering. Whether you are looking for beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, or unforgettable parties, Torremolinos certainly has something for you.
Each place on the Costa del Sol has its unique character and offers a variety of experiences that make this region so popular among tourists from around the world.
What is worth visiting in Andalusia?
Seville – The Heart of Andalusia
Seville is the capital of Andalusia and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, full of landmarks, stunning architecture, and greenery. Exploring Seville is a must-see on any visit to Andalusia. The city greets tourists with warm air, and in July and August, temperatures can reach up to 40°C, making it the hottest place in Spain. However, it is worth preparing for difficulties with parking, as parking spaces are often scarce in the city center.
One of the most beautiful places in Seville is the Spanish Square (Plaza de España), located in Maria Luisa Park. Built for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1929, the square is shaped like a semicircle and is surrounded by two towers and a picturesque canal with bridges. The square features 48 ceramic benches representing the Spanish provinces. Additionally, Seville offers free flamenco shows, which are a wonderful attraction for tourists.
During your visit to Seville, it’s also worth taking a stroll through the Old Town to admire the unique architecture. While walking, you will encounter the Cathedral of Saint Mary and its bell tower, La Giralda. Remember that entrance to the cathedral is paid. Another important point is the Royal Alcázar Palace, where you can enter for free on Mondays. Although we admired its walls from the outside, it’s worth considering a tour of the interiors.
Another noteworthy site is the Setas de Sevilla, which is the largest wooden structure in the world. Its underground area houses an archaeological museum, and at the top, there is a paid viewing terrace that offers a magnificent view of the city.
Setenil de las Bodegas – A Charming Town in Andalusia
Setenil de las Bodegas is a picturesque town in Andalusia that captivates with its unique architecture and distinct atmosphere. The main attraction of the town is the original street Calle Cuevas del Sol, where a majestic rock hangs above the heads of those strolling below, creating an extraordinary visual effect.
In Setenil de las Bodegas, all the houses are painted white, giving the town a bright and pleasant character. A standout feature in this colorful setting is the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation, which is notable for its facade which is the only one not painted white. The town is also known for producing high-quality olive oil and wines, making it an ideal destination for lovers of local flavors.
Getting to Setenil de las Bodegas involves winding down a narrow road, which adds charm to the journey. The town is located just 96 km from Malaga and 18 km from Ronda, making it a perfect spot for a day trip.
Setenil de las Bodegas is certainly a place worth visiting during your stay in Andalusia.
Ronda – An Unforgettable Town in Andalusia
Ronda is yet another amazing town in Andalusia, known as one of the oldest cities in Spain. Its uniqueness comes from its location, as the town is situated on both sides of the rocky gorge El Tajo, connected by the Puente Nuevo bridge, built in 1793. On one side lies La Ciudad, the Moorish old town, and on the other side is the 15th-century „new” town El Mercadillo.
The Puente Nuevo bridge is truly impressive. First, I recommend viewing it from below, where a narrow cobblestone path leads, and then climbing up to admire the gorge from that vantage point and strolling through the town. The gorge is about half a kilometer long and rises over 100 meters high.
Orson Welles fell in love with Ronda, and he later found his resting place here. Ernest Hemingway also adored this town. To this day, the promenade with stunning panoramic views bears his name: Paseo de Ernest Hemingway.
Other places worth visiting in Ronda include the bullring, Alameda del Tajo, the gardens of the Palace of the Moorish King, and the Arab Baths.
Parking on the street can be quite a challenge. It is narrow, steep, and cramped everywhere, but fortunately, there is a paid underground parking garage in the historic part of Ronda, Parking El Castillo (look for it on navigation).
Gibraltar – Great Britain in Spain
Gibraltar is a small piece of Great Britain in Spain. It is a British Overseas Territory located on the southern coast of the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, covering just 6.55 km². Spain had to cede the peninsula to Great Britain, and in 1830, Gibraltar officially became a British colony. When exploring Andalusia, it is worth visiting this unique region.
The Upper Rock rises 426 meters above sea level, and at its summit, there is a breathtaking view of the African coast and a long stretch of the Spanish coastline. Most of the mountain area is a nature reserve (Gibraltar Nature Reserve).
There are two routes to the top of Gibraltar: a fast one and a leisurely one. We chose a slow path that took us about two hours. Unfortunately, we did not receive a map at the beginning, which led us to visit various points in a random order. Climbing the rock in the blazing sun is not easy, but the views of the sea and surroundings from the top are worth the effort. There is also an option to take a cable car or bus to the summit. At the top, there is a Nature Reserve that is home to various species of animals, including Barbary macaques, which are a popular attraction in Gibraltar. The monkeys are accustomed to tourists, but it is important to remember that they are wild animals. While walking around the rock, we encountered a family of monkeys that did not want to let tourists pass protecting their young.
One of the more interesting points to visit on the mountain is St. Michael’s Cave. This natural grotto features stunning hanging stalactites and excellent acoustics. The interior of the cave is beautifully illuminated, and during the tour, you can hear music that adds magic to the place.
Another highlight of the hike around the rock is Windsor Bridge – a bridge that spans a chasm nearly 50 meters deep, offering an exhilarating experience. The Skywalk is a glass terrace at a height of 340 meters with a stunning view.
Entrance to Gibraltar is paid. For adults, the ticket price is £18, while for children aged 5 to 11, it is £12. Children under the age of 5 enter for free.
On this small patch of land, you can find almost everything: schools, shops, restaurants, a kindergarten, and even an airport, as well as the famous red telephone booths. Gibraltar is a place worth visiting during your travels in Spain!
El Caminito del Rey – The King's Path in Andalusia
El Caminito del Rey, also known as The King’s Path, is an unforgettable attraction that is the cherry on top of a visit to Andalusia. It is a walking trail that runs along the steep walls of a limestone gorge in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes National Park. The entrance to The King’s Path is in the town of Ardales and ends in El Chorro. The route is 7.7 kilometers long and can be completed in about 4 hours.
It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance for a specific time, as the trail is extremely popular, and authorities have implemented restrictions on the number of people allowed on the trail at the same time (check here). The cost with a guide is €19.50, and without a guide, it is €10, although this option was unavailable when I purchased the tickets.
The views from El Caminito del Rey are spectacular, and we certainly rate this attraction highly during our stay in Andalusia. The King’s Path runs on concrete platforms anchored to the rock, rising several dozen meters above the gorge. At the bottom of the gorge flows the Guadalhorce River, and both sides of the gorge feature vertical rocky cliffs reaching heights of over 100 meters. The main attraction is the hanging bridge, Puente Colgante del Caminito del Rey, which hangs over the abyss.
Initial work on the trail began in 1901, aimed at transporting materials through the gorge. In 1921, King Alfonso XIII traversed this dangerous path during the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce dam, which contributed to the trail’s name.
Due to the trail not being maintained for many years, its condition deteriorated year after year, leading to tragic accidents. The trail was closed, and in 2014, local authorities undertook a comprehensive renovation costing €7 million. The reopening of El Caminito del Rey took place in March 2015, allowing tourists to once again enjoy this amazing experience.
Travel Costs in Costa del Sol and Andalusia
Below is a summary of costs for two people:
- Travel insurance: PLN 122
- Accommodation: EUR 519 (2200 PLN)
- Flight tickets: PLN 1539 (including the purchase of one piece of luggage)
- Car rental for 4 days: EUR 230 (981 PLN)
- Fuel: 299 EUR (1200 PLN)
- Entrance fees: PLN 352
- Food and other expenses: EUR 250 (1000 PLN)
The total cost for two people amounted to PLN 7394.
Summary of the Trip to Costa del Sol and Andalusia
A trip to Costa del Sol and Andalusia is an unforgettable experience that combines the beauty of nature, rich history, and fascinating culture, well worth every penny. Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, adventures in the mountains, or discovering local treasures, this region of Spain will meet your expectations.
Both Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola, and Torremolinos, as well as other Andalusian cities, offer something unique for every traveler. The warm climate, friendly locals, and variety of attractions make visiting Costa del Sol and Andalusia an ideal choice for a holiday that will be remembered for a long time.
So pack your bags and set off to conquer the Costa del Sol, where every moment becomes an unforgettable adventure!
