Looking for the best way to see Andalucía without driving? This 7-day itinerary uses Spain’s excellent rail system to visit four incredible cities, with optional day trips to dramatic mountain scenery and hidden white villages.
By: Paul Healy | Last Updated: | Jump to Comments
Combining mountain villages with lively cities and Mediterranean beaches, Andalucía is a diverse and fascinating part of Spain.
Centuries of Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences have bestowed the region with incredible architecture, an intriguing history and a wonderful, diverse food scene.
It’s also one of the best value destinations in Europe.
We’ve spent a lot of time in Andalucía over the years, mostly self-driving, but we recently visited all the main highlights by train, which we think is a great way to do it.
So, this article covers how you can visit the best of the region without a car.
Our itinerary includes the four most interesting cities, with optional day trips into the mountains. This way you can experience all sides of Andalucía.
Everything is well connected by Spain’s efficient high-speed rail network. The optional day trips are best done by tour, for which we have provided all the details.
ANDALUCÍA RAIL ITINERARY SUMMARY
We did this itinerary over 8 days. However, you can easily extend any location if you have more time.
The entire itinerary was completed by train, with some optional coach tours. This allowed us to see a bit of the countryside outside the main cities.
To help you book, here are the places we stayed at:
| WHERE | HOW LONG |
|---|---|
| Seville | 2 nights |
| Córdoba | 1 night |
| Granada | 1 night |
| Málaga | 1 night |
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS ITINERARY
There’s so much to see in this part of Spain, which is why we keep coming back every year. Here are some of the main highlights we think every visitor should see. All of these locations are visited in our itinerary.
- Seville Cathedral – The third largest cathedral in the world and home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
- Cordoba’s Mezquita-Catedral – A remarkable cathedral built inside a mosque is a fascinating insight into the history of Andalucía.
- Granada’s Alhambra Palace – The finest example of Islamic architecture in Western Europe.
- Ronda – A wonderful white village dramatically perched on both sides of a deep gorge.
- Caminito del Rey – A hike on a dramatic walkway pinned to vertical cliff walls. (This is optional in this itinerary).
WHY SEE ANDALUCÍA VIA TRAIN?
Andalucía has scenic mountain roads, charming villages and a beautiful rural landscape. But most of the region’s highlights are in the historic old towns in the centre of the cities.
These historic centres are mostly pedestrianised, and getting in and out with a car can be stressful. Parking is also expensive, and you need to find a hotel with parking nearby. It’s not impossible, and we’ve driven around Andalucía many times.
However, taking the train is a much more relaxing way to see the region.
Fortunately, Spain has an excellent rail network that connects all the major cities on this itinerary. The service is regular, fast, and efficient.
The train stations are either a walk or a bus ride from the town centre.
WHEN TO GO?
The best time to visit Andalucía is from April to mid-June when the temperatures are not too high, winter is easing, and the tourists have not yet descended on the main centres.
The gardens in the cities will be lush, the sun will be inviting, and because it is shoulder season, prices will not yet be at their peak.
Try to avoid the summer months, when temperatures average in the high 30s. The heat makes exploring tiring, and some attractions have limited opening hours from mid-June to mid-September.
This is especially true in Córdoba, which we cover in our day trip to Córdoba guide.
Late September to October is another good time to visit, as the temperatures drop but the days still feel long.
Winter can be surprisingly cold and wet. However, clear skies can offer a bright escape from more cloudy climates if you get lucky.
HOW TO START THIS ITINERARY?
We started our Andalucía itinerary in Seville. However, you could easily do this itinerary in reverse.
BY AIR
Seville San Pablo airport is 10 kilometres northeast of Seville.
Flights arrive from several European cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, London Stanstead, London Gatwick, Bristol, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, and Milan.
The EA Airport Bus from the airport to the town centre leaves every 15 to 30 minutes between 4:30 am and 12:30 am.
Taxis should cost around €25.
BY TRAIN
The main train station in Seville is Santa Justa Station, just north of the city centre.
Seville is on Spain’s high-speed train network, AVE. Fast services run from Madrid (2 hours, 30 minutes) and Barcelona (5 hours, 40 minutes).
There are also regional train services to Seville from Málaga, Valencia, Cádiz and Córdoba.
The best platform for international travellers to book train tickets is Omio.
OUR ANDALUCÍA TRAIN ITINERARY
DAY 1: SEVILLE
Seville is one of our favourite European cities. We’ve visited many times and have fallen increasingly in love each time we return.
There is fascinating Moorish architecture, grand palaces, gardens, and plenty of hidden corners with excellent food and atmospheric tapas bars.
Seville is also great value, with both sights and food relatively affordable.
We recommend spending two full days in Seville (and you could easily add another). Using our guide to the best things to do in Seville, you can plan what you want to see. The highlights are the Alcázar and the cathedral. These also take the most time, so we suggest doing them on different days.
WHAT TO DO?
On day 1, we visited the northern part of the old town, stretching from El Centre (the city’s main commercial hub) down to the cathedral. Here is a quick run-down on what we did:
- Metropol Parasol – The large, modern, undulating walkway has wonderful views of Seville. We think it’s getting a bit overpriced now, but if it’s your first time in Seville, it’s worth doing.
- Casa de Pilatos – This is a stunning palace with intricate Mudéjar designs and a courtyard with Renaissance sculptures.
- Seville Cathedral – The Cathedral is said to be one of the largest in the world in terms of volume. The highlight is the roof tour, which must be booked at least 1 week in advance.
- Giralda Tower – The tower to the Cathedral takes you 35 floors above the city and rewards you with wonderful views. The ticket for the cathedral (linked above) includes the tower.
Please remember that the Cathedral must be booked in advance. We recently heard from several readers who said they could not visit because it was booked out. You also need to book the roof tour separately.
For a food recommendation today, we love Ovejas Negras Tapas.
WHERE TO STAY
If you pick a hotel in or close to the town centre, you can easily see Seville on foot. It’s a very walkable city, and we didn’t need to use public transport at all.
Here are a few of our recommendations.
- EME Catedral Hotel (€€€) – A stylish hotel, perfectly located across the road from the cathedral with a stunning rooftop terrace.
- Hotel Alfonso XIII (€€) – A beautiful old hotel with an elegant modern refresh. All rooms are individually decorated in this high-end hotel.
- Hotel Amadeus (€€) – Family-run hotel with beautifully appointed rooms and regular classical music recitals. They have wonderful cathedral views from the roof terrace.
DAY 2: SEVILLE
For the second day in Seville, we focused on the southern section from Barrio de Santa Cruz and the Alcazar down to Plaza España. This will give you a good taste of the different sides of the city in 2 days. Here is what we did:
- Hospital de los Venerables – This former hospice was converted into an art gallery containing some of Seville’s most treasured paintings. Don’t miss Room 7, which has 12 extraordinary masterpieces by Zurburán, Montañés, Murillo, El Greco, and Velázquez.
- Real Alcázar – The sprawling palace of the Christian Kings is an important site of Moorish history in Spain. The Palacio del Rey Don Pedro contains some of the best examples of Mudéjar architecture in Seville.
- Plaza de España – The palatial semi-circular building constructed for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1928 is a beautiful photo spot in Seville.
After sightseeing during the day, we went to Alameda de Hércules for the evening. This is a great local neighbourhood with excellent nightlife.
For dinner tonight, we highly recommend Duo Tapas; it’s one of our favourite tapa joints in Spain.
DAY 3: SEVILLE TO CÓRDOBA
This itinerary only includes one night in Córdoba, so we suggest leaving first thing in the morning.
The train leaves from Seville’s Santa Justa Station and takes one hour to reach Córdoba Central Train Station. From there, it is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride to Córdoba’s old town centre.
Córdoba is a fascinating city, and somewhere we highly recommend including on this Andalucía itinerary.
The compact Jewish Quarter is a fascinating maze of alleyways. Islamic influences are present throughout the city, and the dramatic Christian conquest is evident in mesmerising architecture.
Nothing highlights this more than the Mosque-Cathedral, one of the most impressive buildings in the world.
WHAT TO DO?
Although you could spend longer in Córdoba, one day is enough to see the main sights and get a feel for the city.
Our one-day guide to Córdoba provides more detailed information if you are visiting on a day trip. However, this itinerary is a little different because you have the afternoon of today and the morning of tomorrow.
Due to Córdoba’s tricky opening times, you need to go to the Mezquita-Catedral the afternoon of the day you arrive. This way, you will have time to see the Alcázar the following day, as it is only open in the morning for part of the year.
Here is what we did after arriving in Córdoba:
- Jewish Quarter – The well-preserved Jewish Quarter is a great introduction to Córdoba. We popped into the Jewish Synagogue and the Chapel of San Bartolomé.
- Mezquita-Catedral – This is a fascinating building and the main reason to visit Córdoba. The original mosque was turned into a Christian Cathedral after the conquest in 1236, and the building is astounding. Tickets must be booked in advance.
- Bell Tower – We climbed to the top of the Cathedral Bell Tower for late afternoon views of Córdoba. A separate ticket is required, which you can buy on the day.
- Roman Bridge – Stroll over the Roman Bridge for great views back to the Mezquita-Catedral. It’s especially nice in the early evening.
WHERE TO STAY?
As we were only in Córdoba for 1 night, we stayed between the train station and the old centre. Here are a few options:
- Hotel Selu (€) – This is a great-value hotel with clean rooms and good facilities. It is a 10-minute walk from the town centre and a 15-minute walk from the station.
- AC Hotel Córdoba (€€) – This Marriott hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the train station. It’s a slightly sterile business hotel, but its proximity to the station makes up for it.
- NH Córdoba Califa (€) – This good-value property is an easy taxi ride from the station and is on the edge of the old town. It has air conditioning and free Wifi.
DAY 4: CÓRDOBA TO GRANADA
Here’s what we suggest you do in Córdoba before getting the train to Granada in the afternoon.
We suggest visiting the Alcázar this morning, because between June and September, it is only open until 2:45 p.m. It’s also closed on Monday.
- Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs – The Christians built the Alcázar after they conquered Córdoba in 1328. The fortress tower provides a beautiful view, and the manicured gardens are lovely.
- San Basilio Patios – The patios of Córdoba are whitewashed courtyards adorned with colourful flowers. The San Basilio Patios are central, making them the best ones to see in a short space of time.
- Lunch – Grab lunch at Bodega San Basilio, a traditional taverna packed with locals tucking into its popular Oxtail stew. Just around the corner, Mesón San Basilio has a nice indoor courtyard and similar food.
TRAIN FROM CÓRDOBA TO GRANADA
In the afternoon, catch the train from Córdoba to Granada. The journey takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on a tapas crawl for dinner.
Tapas is a way of life in Granada and one of the few places in Spain where you still get complementary tapas when you order a drink.
Try three or four different venues, and you’ll have a great meal while exploring the city. We have a few recommendations in our guide to visiting Granada.
WHERE TO STAY?
The train station is about a 25-minute walk from the town centre, so you may need to take a taxi to your hotel. We stayed at Shine Albayzín, which was excellent value and in a great location.
- Sercotel Granada Suites (€€) – Modern building, just off Bib Rambla. Some rooms have a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, accommodating up to four people.
- Gar Anat Boutique Hotel (€€) – A chic boutique hotel in a 17th-century palace in the heart of Granada. Each bedroom is traditionally styled with modern amenities.
- Shine Albayzín (€) – This good-value hotel, with contemporary rooms in a beautifully restored 16th-century mansion, is in the perfect location on Carrera del Darro.
DAY 5: GRANADA
Granada was the last remaining stronghold of the Moors battling against the Christian conquest. The architectural, historical and cultural legacy left behind makes it a fascinating place to visit on this Andalucía itinerary.
In addition to the Alhambra, which is the most popular tourist attraction in Andalucía, Granada has a vibrant, slightly bohemian atmosphere and excellent food scene.
WHAT TO DO?
We spent most of the first full day in Granada at the Alhambra, one of the world’s most important monuments to Islamic architecture, followed by the Cathedral.
Here’s what we recommend you do today:
- Alhambra – Visit the Alhambra first thing in the morning. A timed entry ticket must be booked well in advance as spaces fill up quickly, sometimes months ahead.
- Cathedral – Admire this cavernous Gothic building after you visit the Alhambra.
- Albaicín Neighbourhood – Albaicín is the Moorish quarter of Granada, located on the hill facing the Alhambra. Stroll around the streets, stopping at the Church of San Salvador and Carmen de la Victoria.
- Mirador de San Nicolás – End your visit to Albaicín by heading to Mirador de San Nicolás, which has terrific views of the Alhambra. It’s an excellent place for sunset.
DAY 6: GRANADA TO MÁLAGA
Before getting on the train from Granada to Málaga, you should have time to see some of the city’s less-visited attractions and stroll around some of its more interesting streets.
Here’s what we recommend you do today:
- Basilica San Juan de Dios – This baroque masterpiece is one of the most interesting churches we have visited. The building is a mass of gold and art, and we highly recommend visiting.
- La Alcaicdería – La Alcaicería is the home of the Grand Bazaar of Granada and what remains of the original Moorish silk market. Today, it’s aimed at tourists, but it’s interesting to stroll through.
- Calle Caldería Nueva – This narrow laneway bursts with historic Moorish vibes. It’s one of the most atmospheric streets in Granada.
TRAIN FROM GRANADA TO MÁLAGA
The train from Granada takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Both train stations are a 20-minute walk from their respective town centres or a quick taxi ride.
Once in Málaga, we suggest you stroll around and find bars that take your fancy. We liked El Pimpi for dinner, the restaurant owned by Antonio Banderas.
After that, we highly recommend grabbing a drink at Antigua Casa de Guardia, an old-school tavern with a great selection of Málaga wines, sherries and vermouths. Drinks are poured straight from the barrel, and your bill is chalked up on the bar. You have to stand, but it’s all part of the fun.
DAY 7-8: MÁLAGA
The two big attractions in Málaga are the Alcazaba and the Cathedral.
To be honest, after you’ve seen the Seville Cathedra and Alcazar, the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba, and the Alhambra in Granada, the Málaga attractions are much less of a priority.
Instead of spending time in Málaga, we suggest taking a day trip to see something a little different.
If you can squeeze in an extra day, we have some suggestions for what to do with one day in Málaga below.
OPTION 1: DAY TRIP TO RONDA
Ronda is a beautiful town set in a dramatic location on the edge of a gorge. It’s the gateway to the White Villages of Andalucía, and many tours from Málaga include at least one other village.
Taking the bus is possible, but the journey is around 2 hours and 30 minutes. This will allow enough time to see Ronda, but it’s a long day.
If you decide to take this option, read our guide to a day trip to Ronda, which has all the information you need, including tours from Málaga.
OPTION 2: DAY TRIP TO CAMINITO DEL REY
The Caminito del Rey is a dramatic hike on a walkway suspended 400 metres above a narrow gorge. It’s a stunning place and one of the best things to do in the area.
We have a detailed guide about the Caminito del Rey with all the information you need.
Without a car, an organised tour is the best way to get there from Málaga.
Tour from Málaga by Private Bus (around €60) – This tour starts at Málaga Town Hall and includes bus transport to Caminito del Rey, entry tickets and a guide.
Tour from Málaga by Train (around €60) – This tour includes the return train journey from Málaga, the entry ticket and a guided tour. The guides will meet you at Málaga train station in the morning.
IF YOU HAVE A DAY IN MÁLAGA
If you have time for a day in Málaga, here is what we recommend after many visits to the city.
- Alcazaba – Although not as impressive as the Alhambra in Granada, the Alcazaba is still worth exploring. However, if you only spend one day in Málaga, we recommend skipping the Castillo.
- Cathedral Roof Tour – The Málaga Cathedral is impressive in scale, but the real highlight is the rooftop tour, which is interesting and provides excellent city views.
- Museo de Málaga – This new gallery combines the Museo de Bellas Artes and the Museo Arqueológico into one huge collection. It’s a bargain at just €1.50.
- Picasso Museum – If you have time, you should also visit the Picasso Museum, which has over 200 works donated by his family.
This should allow some free time to stroll the old town, find a cute tapa bar, and explore the port. Our article about visiting Málaga has more suggestions.
WHERE TO STAY?
Málaga María Zambrano Train Station is a 20-minute walk to the town centre, and plenty of great hotels are on the way. Here are some suggestions:
- Icon Malabar (€) – A contemporary property with clean, bright rooms in a great location. They also have free bike hire.
- GR Suites Boutique Alcazaba (€€) – This one-bedroom apartment with a dining area and kitchenette is just 300 metres from Málaga Cathedral.
- Soho Boutique Urban (€€€) – Just a few minutes walk from the Old Town with well-equipped rooms, some with balconies or inner courtyards.
WHAT TO BOOK IN ADVANCE
To help with logistics, here’s what you need to book each day for this itinerary.
- 2 nights accommodation in Seville (Day 1)
- Seville Cathedral (Day 1)
- Seville Cathedral Rooftop Tour (Day 1)
- Real Alcázar (Day 2)
- Train from Seville to Córdoba (Day 3)
- 1 night Accommodation in Córdoba (Day 3)
- Mezquita-Catedral & Bell Tower (Day 3)
- Alcàzar of the Christian Monarchs (Day 4)
- Train from Córdoba to Granada (Day 4)
- 1 night Accommodation in Granada (Day 5)
- Alhambra tickets (Day 5)
- Train from Granada to Málaga (Day 6)
- El Pimpi Restaurant (Day 6)
- 1 night Accommodation in Málaga (Day 6)
- Day trip to Ronda or; (Day 7)
- Day trip to Caminito del Rey (Day 7)
MORE ANDALUCÍA GUIDES
- Spend a glorious 3 days in Seville, the capital of Andalucia.
- How to plan a day trip from Seville to Córdoba.
- Our guide to Málaga includes the best things to do, top beaches and great day trips.
- See the Alhambra with our guide to visiting Granada.
- Take a road trip through these beautiful white villages in Andalucía.
- How to visit Ronda on a day trip from Seville or Málaga.
- Read up on the best things to do in Cádiz.
- See the incredible history of the region in our 2-day itinerary for Córdoba.
- Hike the stunning Garganta Verde.
- Find secluded beaches near Tarifa ideal for kite-surfing or bum-sitting.
- Visit more interesting places in Andalucía.
- Read about all the best things to do on the Costa del Sol.
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