The Costa del Sol runs for more than 150km along the coast of southern Spain. Its most popular resorts include Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Marbella and Estepona. Whilst best known as a summer holiday destination its privileged location allows visitors to enjoy a number of day trips from the Costa del Sol to the Moorish cities of Andalucía: Seville, Granada and Córdoba. Other popular day trips include Ronda, Gibraltar, Nerja and even Tangier in Morocco. You can collect a hire car at Málaga Airport and drive yourself to these destinations or book group and private tours with local agencies. Coach operators have pick-up points in most of the main resorts along the Costa del Sol.
Half Day Trips from the Costa del Sol
Marbella Old Town and Puerto Banus
A half-day excursion combining Marbella’s Old Town and Puerto Banús showcases two contrasting faces of the Costa del Sol. Start your morning in the Old Town (Casco Antiguo), where the Plaza de los Naranjos forms the historic heart of Marbella. This 15th-century square, with its Renaissance fountain and orange tree-lined terraces, offers ideal spots for a morning coffee whilst watching the town come to life.
The surrounding maze of whitewashed streets holds unexpected treasures: the 16th-century Town Hall with its ornate sundial, Chapel of Santiago (the oldest religious building in Marbella) and the remains of the Arab castle wall, reminding visitors of the town’s Moorish past. Art enthusiasts should visit the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo, housing an impressive collection of Spanish prints and engravings.
After exploring the Old Town’s boutiques and craft shops, take a short taxi ride or catch the local bus to Puerto Banús (10 minutes away). This modern marina, built in the 1970s, has evolved into one of Europe’s most prestigious ports. Here, superyachts dock alongside designer boutiques like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana.
The palm-lined promenade offers prime people-watching opportunities – you might spot anything from Ferraris to famous faces. For lunch, choose between the marina’s upscale restaurants or the more relaxed chiringuitos (beach restaurants) along the adjacent beach.
Mijas Pueblo
Standing 428 metres above sea level, Mijas Pueblo is a classic whitewashed mountain village located just 20 minutes from the nearest resorts of the Costa del Sol. It is well known for its flower-pot lined streets filled with thousands of colourful geraniums. Its most famous structure is the oval-shaped bullring which stands out as one of Spain’s most distinctive arenas.
Whilst the famous donkey-taxis remain a village symbol, they’re now primarily a photo opportunity rather than transport. For better village orientation, hop on the tourist train which circles the main sights in 15 minutes. The village’s craft shops and traditional restaurants cluster around Plaza de la Constitución, making this a convenient final stop for lunch and souvenir shopping.
Nerja Caves and Frigiliana
A half-day excursion to the Nerja Caves and Frigiliana is an ideal trip from coastal resorts. Discovered by local boys in 1959, the Nerja Caves rank among Spain’s most important prehistoric sites. The vast cave system stretches for almost 5km, though visitors access only a portion. The main chamber, Sala del Cataclismo, features a massive central column formed by the fusion of stalactites and stalagmites – at 32 metres high, it’s one of the largest in the world. Natural lighting emphasizes the dramatic rock formations, whilst informative panels detail the caves’ 20,000-year human history, including prehistoric cave paintings.
After visiting the caves you should drive 15 minutes inland to Frigiliana which is consistently voted one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Its pristine Moorish quarter, El Barrio Alto, cascades down the hillside in tiers of immaculately maintained white houses. Narrow cobbled streets, marked with ceramic plaques telling the village’s Moorish history, lead past houses decorated with colourful flowers and ornate doorways.
You can walk up through the village to the highest viewpoint for spectacular views over the Mediterranean passing artisan shops selling local produce including honey, moscatel wine and handmade pottery.
El Caminito del Rey
El Caminito del Rey used to be a terrifying walkway but it has been transformed into one of the region’s most visited tourist attractions. This restored cliff-face path, clinging to the walls of a dramatic gorge north of Málaga, offers an unforgettable half-day adventure from Costa del Sol resorts.
The linear walkway runs for 7.7km, with the main boardwalk section stretching 3km along sheer rock faces, suspended 100 metres above the Guadalhorce River. Despite its dramatic setting, the modern path is completely secure, featuring sturdy boardwalks and safety rails throughout. The route includes glass-floored sections and a spectacular suspension bridge, offering extraordinary views of the limestone cliffs and turquoise waters below.
Whilst no longer the hair-raising experience of its past, El Caminito del Rey remains an exhilarating adventure. The combination of dramatic scenery, fascinating engineering and rich history makes this restored pathway one of Andalucía’s must-visit attractions. The walk is not suitable for those with vertigo or children under eight years of age.
Full Day Trips from the Costa del Sol
Málaga
Most visitors to the Costa del Sol merely glimpse Málaga through their aeroplane window before heading to their holiday resort. This 3,000-year-old port city, birthplace of Pablo Picasso, deserves a full day of exploration for its mix of historical monuments, world-class museums and vibrant culinary scene.
Start your visit at the restored Roman Theatre at the foot of the Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish fortress which rivals Granada’s Alhambra for architectural beauty. Above it, the Gibralfaro Castle offers panoramic city views and connects to the Alcazaba via a scenic walkway.
The city’s museum quarter includes the Museo Picasso, housing 285 works in a 16th-century palace and the Carmen Thyssen Museum, showcasing Spanish art in a restored villa. The Centre Pompidou Málaga, marked by its colourful glass cube and the Collection of the Russian Museum add to the city’s impressive cultural credentials.
For lunch, explore the historic Atarazanas Market, where tapas bars serve fresh seafood beneath stunning stained glass windows. The pedestrianized Calle Larios, Málaga’s elegant main shopping street, leads to the Cathedral, nicknamed ‘La Manquita’ (One-Armed Lady) for its unfinished tower.
You can get to Málaga on frequent RENFE trains from Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Fuengirola. There are also Avanza bus services from Marbella and Estepona. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Gibraltar
The Rock of Gibraltar, rising dramatically 426 metres from the Mediterranean, offers visitors an intriguing blend of British and Mediterranean culture at Europe’s southernmost point. This British Overseas Territory, one of the ancient Pillars of Hercules, stands guard over the strait separating Europe from Africa, with Morocco visible just 14km away on clear days.
A full day trip to Gibraltar begins with crossing the territory’s airport runway which intersects the main road into town. The most efficient way to explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques, is via cable car or an organized minibus tour. These tours typically include St. Michael’s Cave with its dramatic stalactites, the Great Siege Tunnels from the 18th century and the Moorish Castle. The macaques, Europe’s only wild monkey population, freely roam the upper rock.
The compact city centre offers a distinctly British atmosphere with red telephone boxes and familiar UK shops lining Main Street. Here you’ll find duty-free shopping, though strict customs limits apply when returning to Spain.
Getting to Gibraltar from Costa del Sol resorts requires advance planning. whilst organized coach tours are popular, independent travelers can drive (allow 90 minutes from Marbella) or take direct buses from most coastal towns. If driving, consider parking in La Línea and walking across the border to avoid vehicle queues. The border requires a valid passport and queues can be lengthy.
Recent years have seen Gibraltar transform into a modern destination whilst maintaining its historical charm. Europa Point, with its Trinity House lighthouse and Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque, offers spectacular views across the strait. Ocean Village marina provides upscale dining options and a modern yacht harbor, challenging old perceptions of Gibraltar as merely a tax-free shopping destination.
Ronda
Dramatically located on a 100-metre-high cliff, Ronda is one of Andalucia’s most spectacular towns. The famous El Tajo gorge splits the medieval from the modern town, connected by the stunning 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), an architectural marvel that took 42 years to build. This iconic structure, standing above the Guadalevín River, offers breathtaking photo opportunities and serves as Ronda’s most recognizable symbol.
The town’s rich history spans Roman, Moorish and Christian periods, each leaving their mark on its architecture and culture. The Plaza de Toros, built in 1785, is Spain’s oldest and most prestigious bullring, with a museum celebrating the town’s deep connection to bullfighting and the Romero dynasty of toreros. The arena’s elegant double-tiered arcaded galleries influenced bullring design throughout Spain.
In the old town (La Ciudad), winding cobbled streets lead to the Church of Santa María la Mayor, built on the site of a former mosque. The perfectly preserved Arab Baths, dating from the 13th century, demonstrate sophisticated Moorish engineering and architecture. The Mondragón Palace, once home to Moorish rulers and later Ferdinand and Isabella, houses the municipal museum with its fascinating exhibits on local history.
The new town (El Mercadillo) offers excellent shopping and dining opportunities along Calle La Bola and around Plaza del Socorro. Local restaurants serve regional specialties like rabo de toro (oxtail stew) and fresh mountain trout, paired with wines from nearby Serranía de Ronda vineyards.
Getting to Ronda from the Costa del Sol takes about 90 minutes by car from Marbella, following a scenic mountain road through the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. whilst organized tours are popular, driving allows flexibility to explore at your own pace. Regular buses run from coastal towns, though the journey takes longer. The scenic train journey from Algeciras to Ronda through stunning mountain landscapes is a memorable experience.
Granada
Granada is home to the Alhambra Palace, Spain’s most visited monument, which makes for a rewarding day trip from the Costa del Sol. The chance to explore one of Europe’s most remarkable Islamic architectural treasures makes the early start well worthwhile.
The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits majestically atop a hill overlooking Granada. This 14th-century Moorish fortress and palace complex represents the pinnacle of Islamic architecture in Spain. The site comprises several stunning sections: the Nasrid Palaces with their intricate Islamic decoration and peaceful courtyards, the Alcazaba fortress offering panoramic city views and the Generalife gardens with their cooling fountains and fragrant cypress trees. Advance booking of Alhambra Palace Tickets is essential as daily visitor numbers are strictly limited and tickets often sell out months ahead.
Beyond the Alhambra, Granada’s historic Albaicín quarter, with its narrow winding streets and traditional carmenes (houses with walled gardens), provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval Islamic urban planning. This hillside neighborhood offers spectacular views of the Alhambra, particularly from the Mirador de San Nicolás at sunset. The nearby Sacromonte district, traditionally home to Granada’s gitano (gypsy) community, is famous for its cave houses and flamenco shows.
The city centre showcases Granada’s Christian heritage, dominated by the Renaissance Cathedral and Royal Chapel, burial place of Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. The bustling Alcaicería, once Granada’s grand bazaar, now houses souvenir shops in a recreated Moorish setting. For lunch, explore the tapas bars around Plaza Nueva or Calle Navas – Granada maintains the traditional Spanish practice of serving free tapas with drinks.
Whilst organized tours from the Costa del Sol provide convenience, they often focus primarily on the Alhambra. Independent travellers can take advantage of regular buses from Málaga’s bus station or drive to Granada, parking at the official Alhambra car parking.
Those making the journey should prioritize their time carefully. Whilst seeing everything in one day is impossible, focusing on the Alhambra in the morning (allow at least three hours), followed by lunch and exploration of the Albaicín in the afternoon, provides a satisfying introduction to this magnificent city. Remember that the Alhambra’s strict entry times must be adhered to – missing your allocated slot for the Nasrid Palaces means missing the site’s main attraction.
Seville
A day trip to Seville from the Costa del Sol is an ideal way to explore one of Spain’s most iconic cities. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture and lively atmosphere, Seville offers many things to see in a single day, although it’s best to plan for an early start to make the most of the visit.
Seville’s must-see landmarks include the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views of the city. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Real Alcázar, an exquisite palace complex with intricate Mudejar architecture and lush gardens, famous as a filming location for the TV series ‘Game of Thrones’.
Another highlight is the Plaza de España, located in María Luisa Park. This grand square features a stunning semi-circular building with tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces, a central fountain and picturesque bridges over a canal.
For a taste of the local culture, visitors may also explore Seville’s historic Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz, known for its winding alleys, colourful houses and charming plazas. The neighbourhood’s many tapas bars are a great option for lunch.
Travel options from the Costa del Sol to Seville include driving, which takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on the departure point. Alternatively, a high-speed train from Málaga to Seville takes about 2 hours and is generally more convenient and comfortable. Several tour companies also offer guided day trips from various Costa del Sol locations, providing transport, guided tours and sometimes tickets to major attractions. These guided options can be a good choice for those looking for a hassle-free experience.
Córdoba
A day trip to Córdoba from the Costa del Sol offers visitors a chance to explore one of Spain’s most historically rich cities. Known for its iconic Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque-Cathedral), Córdoba’s unique blend of Islamic, Christian and Jewish influences makes it an unforgettable destination. The Mezquita, with its stunning arches and columns, serves as the city’s most famous attraction, blending the architectural grandeur of a mosque with a Renaissance-style cathedral built within it.
Beyond the Mezquita, visitors can wander through the Judería, Córdoba’s historic Jewish quarter, filled with narrow streets, white-washed buildings and colourful flower pots. The area is home to one of Spain’s few remaining medieval synagogues, which is worth a short visit. Another highlight is the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval fortress known for its beautiful gardens and views over the Guadalquivir River.
Getting to Córdoba from the Costa del Sol is straightforward, with driving taking about 1.5 to 2 hours from Málaga, or a high-speed train from Málaga’s María Zambrano station which gets you to Córdoba in under an hour. Guided day trips are also widely available, providing transportation and tours of the main sites. These trips are ideal for those looking for a stress-free way to see the city’s highlights in a single day.
Tangier in Morocco
A day trip to Tangier from the Costa del Sol offers a fascinating glimpse into Moroccan culture and the unique atmosphere of a North African city. The journey begins with a 35-minute hydrofoil ride across the Straits of Gibraltar from Tarifa or Algeciras, making the trip quick and convenient.
Upon arrival, visitors are typically greeted by a local tour guide who leads a sightseeing tour of Tangier, starting with a visit to the historic Kasbah. Located on a hill overlooking the city and the Mediterranean, the Kasbah is a complex of narrow, winding streets lined with homes, shops and artisan workshops, all showcasing the city’s vibrant character. Inside the Kasbah, there are also impressive historical sites, including the Sultan’s Palace (Dar el-Makhzen), which houses a museum with artifacts highlighting Morocco’s diverse cultural heritage.
Lunch is usually provided at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, where visitors can sample local specialties like couscous and tagine, allowing them to experience authentic Moroccan flavors. Afterward, the tour continues with stops at various local markets and stores where travellers can explore and purchase souvenirs, including spices, ceramics and traditional Moroccan crafts.
The day typically wraps up with a scenic drive around Tangier, providing views of the city and nearby coastline. A popular stop along the route includes an optional camel ride, which adds a memorable touch to the day. After the tour, the ferry returns to Spain, making this the most unforgettable of all day trips from the Costa del Sol.
