At a glance
Best Time to Visit
How to get there
Essential Experiences
Travel Considerations
Safety & Accessibility of Resources
Travel with Zicasso
Southern Spain at a Glance
You can experience unparalleled Spanish charm, rich history, and breathtaking views when you venture to the nation's southern region of Andalucia.
You can escape to the sun-kissed patios and sparkling shorelines of Southern Spain, sip on a refreshing glass of sangria with the clicking castanets of talented flamenco dancers in the distance, and admire the striking architecture of the Romans and Moors of the downtown area. Southern Spain offers a plethora of sightseeing opportunities, such as Granada's grand La Alhambra palaces, the gardens of Seville's Alcazar, and Cordoba's La Mezquita. During your explorations, you will experience some of the very best of Spanish culture, from impassioned dance and music to iconic culinary delights.
Best Time to Visit Southern Spain
You should pay careful attention to the local climate and annual festivities when deciding the best time to plan your tour of southern Spain.
The best time to visit southern Spain is during spring and fall. Both seasons offer mild temperatures that average in the mid-70s and lower 80s. For minimal crowds, travelers should plan their trip during the fall months. In the spring, especially during Semana Santa, which is the Holy Week that leads up to Easter, the Spanish cities of southern Spain host week-long festivities and citywide processions. People come from around the world to take part in the celebrations, but travelers should be aware that Spain’s cities can become extremely.
Travelers should avoid visiting southern Spain in the summer, especially in July and August, because temperatures reach up to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit daily.
How to get to Southern Spain
You can manage your transportation plans by following these quick travel tips.
Overall, Spain is an easily accessible country. Travelers should plan ahead, especially if they are traveling during Semana Santa or during the month of August, which is when temperatures are hot and many companies offer limited hours.
Plane: Travelers can fly in and out of Madrid or Barcelona. Malaga is also well-known for its international airport.
Train: Travelers can make their way between major Spanish cities, such as Granada and Seville, via high-speed train service. This is the most efficient travel option with an average total travel time of 3 hours (between Seville and Granada) and four departures each day.
Private Shuttle: You can also travel easily between cities by boarding a private shuttle or bus. The pace may be a bit slower, but you can enjoy scenic views through the Spanish countryside.
Essential Experiences in Southern Spain
You should take a look at these essential experiences to make the very most of your time in southern Spain.
Authentic Flamenco Show in Granada's Caves: During the day, you can explore Granada's historic downtown, step inside the city's grand cathedral, immerse yourself in the Turkish-inspired markets, and climb to the La Alhambra palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, you can venture to Granada's mystical caves that are tucked into the looming hillside. Here, you will attend an authentic flamenco show. You can clap your hands to the staccato beat and marvel at the exquisite footwork, fervent stomping, and impassioned cries of the performers. Afterward, you will enjoy an authentic dinner and stroll past the San Nicolas Mirador for unparalleled views of the illuminated La Alhambra palace.
Cultural Tapas Tour in Seville: You can bask in the sun, amble along the Guadalquivir River, look out at the vibrant Triana facades, marvel at the exquisite tilework of Plaza de Espana, and tour the grand Alcazar palace. In the evening, you can join your expert guide on a tapas tour in the city's downtown area to experience the very best of southern culinary traditions. You can sip on a frothy cana or glass of red wine and indulge in a pimiento de padron or crunch into a deliciously tasty croqueta. As the night carries on, you can listen to the soothing melodies of local acoustic bands and dance alongside locals in the central plaza.
Historic Tour of Cordoba's La Mezquita: You can venture to the beautiful city of Cordoba, which is beloved for its iconic Patios de Cordoba festival that takes place each spring. People travel from across the country and the world to admire exquisite displays of flower bouquets that are perched on the side of the downtown's white stucco buildings. You can admire the displays if you travel to Cordoba in the late spring. The stunning La Mezquita UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating cathedral-mosque complex that pays homage to Cordoba's rich cultural and religious heritages. In the evening, you can explore the city's well preserved Jewish Quarter.
Travel Considerations
Packing the essentials without overpacking is the ultimate travel goal. You should take into account these travel considerations so that you are best prepared for your time in Spain.
Weather
Summers in southern Spain are marked by steamy temperatures that reach into the 100 degrees Fahrenheit. July and August are especially hot, and many businesses close for an extended siesta or August hiatus as the locals escape the heat.
When you travel during spring and fall, you will experience dry weather and mild temperatures in addition to shorter lines and tranquil downtown areas. At the beginning of fall, the hoards of summertime tourists typically subside.
Transportation
Transportation in Spain is fairly simple, especially when visiting major Andalusian cities, such as Seville, Granada, and Cordoba. The easiest modes of transportation are by private shuttle or the AVE high-speed train service, which offers luxurious and efficient ground transportation. Traveling by public bus is also possible, but travelers run the risk of delayed travel times or last-minute schedule changes.
Packing
You should remember that most packing essentials are easy to purchase in Spain if you leave something behind. Department and convenience stores are readily available throughout Spain.
When it comes to choosing luggage, you should consider bringing a non-roller bag because many Spanish streets are unpaved or lined with cobblestones. Backpacks are great alternatives because they allow you to traverse Spain's rolling landscapes with ease.
Weather Considerations
If you travel to Spain during summer months (June through September), you should bring light and breathable clothing because daily temperatures can spike up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Locals don't often wear shorts, but they are perfectly acceptable to wear.
You should make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a cap or scarf to avoid sunburns.
Electrical Considerations
Spain operates on a 230-voltage system and 50 Hertz. Electrical outlets take a two-prong plug, so North American travelers should bring an outlet converter.
Pharmaceutical Considerations
Travelers should plan to bring all prescribed medications with them. In the case of medical assistance, pharmacies are readily available throughout southern Spain. Travelers should also be aware that operating hours will be limited during siesta time.
Cultural Considerations
Southern Spain is often considered more conservative and traditionally religious in its values. Travelers may want to plan for or around saint days, such as when downtown areas become busy with local processions and festivities.
Southern Spain is also famously more laid-back than other parts of Spain. This means that you will encounter warm hospitality, friendly faces, and a laissez-faire attitude. Travelers should be aware that siesta times are often extended in southern Spain.
Travel Insurance
You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip, so in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.
Flights Via Zicasso
Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24x7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.
Travel Documents
Making sure that you carry the appropriate travel documents is essential for any traveler when visiting Spain. For this reason, you should be sure to pack the proper paperwork to ensure your most pleasant and problem-free travel experience. Listed below are some of the most important documents to have on you while traveling in Spain:
- Personal medical information
- Pertinent information regarding any condition(s) from your doctor, especially any medication that you are taking
- Emergency contact information
- Passport
- Visa (if necessary)
- Proof of airline tickets and reservations
- Customs forms and documents
- Hotel/accommodation reservations
- Travel and medical insurance (see above section regarding this)
Your Zicasso travel specialist will be able to provide requirements that are specific to your trip, although responsibility always lies with the traveler to ensure that all is in order. Travel requirements can change with little to no notice, so all are wise to stay updated as your trip approaches.
Finances & Tipping
Tipping at restaurants in Spain is uncommon. In some cases, patrons will leave behind a few euros for exceptional service. For questions related to tipping (including guides and hotel staff) and bartering in Spain, your Zicasso trip specialist will be happy to provide you personalized advice.
Spain operates largely on a cash economy. This is especially true when visiting small towns in southern Spain. Travelers are encouraged to carry small denominations of cash and coins. ATMs are readily available in all cities.
Safety & Accessibility of Resources
You should adhere to these tips about the safety and accessibility of resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to southern Spain.
Overall, Spain is a safe country to visit. Tourists can freely visit large cities and small towns by day or night. In the case of a medical emergency, local resources are readily available.
Crime Rate
The crime rate in Spain is among the lowest in Europe and continues to decline.
Things to look out for
Travelers should be aware of minor crimes, such as pickpocketing. You can limit your risk by traveling with a money belt or storing valuables in an inner coat pocket, especially when boarding public transportation or in crowded areas.
Medical & First Aid
Medical assistance and first aid are readily available in major southern Spanish cities, such as Malaga, Cordoba, Granada, and Seville. Medical assistance in smaller villages may require that you travel to a larger city. Pharmacies are also readily available, although hours may shift on Sundays, during local and national festivals, and for siestas.
Water & Food Safety
Travelers do not need to take any special precautions when it comes to food and water in Spain. Street food is safe to consume, and so is tap water. Restaurant goers are often given the option between tap and carbonated water when eating in public. At restaurants, travelers with dietary preferences or restrictions should be clear about their diets when speaking with the waitstaff.
Travel with Zicasso
Book with Zicasso to ensure the very best travel experience without the added hassle during your tour of southern Spain.
When planning a luxury vacation, every detail matters, which is why our approach is different. We will match you with leading travel specialists who are the most qualified to make your dream trip happen. They know their country better than anyone, and each travel specialist in Zicasso’s network is among the finest travel agents and tour operators, comprising of the top tier of the industry. Experience the wonder of an exceptional itinerary crafted just for you.
