We spent a few days in Andalusia, between Seville, Córdoba and the mountains of Frigiliana.
Seville#
The Andalusian capital imposes itself with its white facades and ubiquitous blue faience tiles.
The Cathedral and the Giralda#
The Cathedral impresses with its grandeur: it is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. The gilded altarpiece remains etched in memory. The Giralda tower, a former minaret, offers a beautiful view of the city. The ascent by gentle ramp is worth the €13 entrance fee.
The Alcázar#
The royal palace seduces with its lush courtyards, fountains and rooms with azulejos. No booking for us: we had to queue very early in the morning to get tickets.
Palacio de las Dueñas#
The Renaissance palace captivates with its intimate courtyards and monumental staircases. The main courtyard, surrounded by galleries, breathes Andalusian elegance. You discover art collections, hidden gardens and an atmosphere far from the tourist crowds. Quick but memorable visit: allow 1-2 hours.
Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija#
Another gem in the city center, remarkable for its Roman mosaics integrated into the floors of the rooms. The 15th century palace harmoniously blends ancient history and medieval architecture. The art collections and patios decorated with azulejos justify the detour. Less touristy than the Alcázar, more intimate.
Plaza de España#
An emblematic monument of Seville, built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. The semi-circular plaza fascinates with its monumental architecture, colorful azulejos and canals. The arcaded buildings offer a royal atmosphere. Ideal for getting lost or taking spectacular photos at sunset.
Torre del Oro#
The Torre del Oro, once a watchtower on the Guadalquivir, dominates the river with its golden hexagonal walls. Built in the 13th century by the Moors, it impresses less from the inside than from the outside. Perfect for a pause on the riverside or a boat trip on the Guadalquivir. The visit is free.
Setas (Métropol Parasol)#
A giant mushroom-shaped structure, inaugurated in 2011. Elevator to access the panoramic terrace: breathtaking views of the city. The ground floor market offers local products and crafts. A must-see place to taste contemporary architecture in a historic city.
Getting lost in the Santa Cruz neighborhood#
The Santa Cruz district invites you to wander: narrow streets, white walls, fan shops. You discover quiet plazas far from the usual tourist circuits.
Recommended Restaurants#
La Beirutina: A must-try for tasting the flavors of the Levant without leaving Seville. Generous and authentic Lebanese cuisine, in a warm atmosphere. Must-try: the varied mezze and skewers. Excellent value for money, far from the usual tourist trap.
Córdoba#
Two hours of driving to the northeast. The historic center remains compact and is easily explored on foot.
The Mosque-Cathedral#
The forest of columns with bicolor arches creates a hypnotic maze. 856 columns from Roman and Visigothic vestiges. A cathedral built in the heart after the Reconquista produces a surprising result. Best visited early in the morning. Audio guide included: ≈ €15 per person.
The Roman Bridge and the Judería#
The ancient bridge spans the Guadalquivir, particularly beautiful at sunset. The Judería neighborhood preserves its medieval charm with white houses and winding streets. We found a bodega there to snack on tapas among locals.
The patio of the Plaza de la Corredera#
Picnic break on a plaza where residents play cards, a pleasant contrast to the tourist atmosphere.
Strolling through the streets of Córdoba#
The pretty streets of the historic center invite you to wander. Beyond the main monuments, you discover charming corners: small craft shops, hidden cafes, and pastel-colored facades. Each street reveals its own particular charm. Aimless walks remain the most memorable.
Hammam Al Andaluz#
An ideal wellness break after sightseeing. The historic Arab baths offer an authentic relaxation experience: caldarium, tepidarium and frigidarium in the traditional manner. Massages available to complete the experience. An intimate atmosphere preserved from the tourist crowds. Book before you come.
Frigiliana#
A pueblo blanco perched on the flanks of the Sierra Almijara, a few kilometers from Nerja and its caves.
A pueblo blanco among Spain’s most beautiful villages#
One of Spain’s most beautiful villages, justified by its narrow streets, white houses cascading down and azulejos adorning the fountains. We wandered aimlessly, then sipped a glass of local wine facing the sea.
The Nerja Cave#
A few kilometers from Frigiliana, the Nerja caves fascinate with their impressive limestone formations: stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by millennia. The guided tour reveals the prehistoric history of the place, once a human refuge. The natural amphitheater of the caves hosts concerts in summer. Allow 1-2 hours for the complete visit. Best done early or late in the day to avoid crowds. The price remains however high compared to the actually visitable area.
The Acequia de Lizar Hike#
The hike follows the Acequia de Lizar, a Moorish irrigation canal connecting the Lizar spring to the village. The trail descends to the Río Higuerón then climbs to the canal. The spectacular part: walking along the edge of a cliff with the canal looming tens of meters above the valley. Some sections lack barriers, approach with caution. Reward: breathtaking views of the Axarquía and the Mediterranean on clear days. The route ends near the ruins of a castle before returning to the village.
Practical Information: ≈ 9 km loop, ≈ 400 m elevation gain, approximately 3 hours Best in spring or autumn: too hot in summer Park at the entrance to the village Return via the Costa del Sol
