Planning a trip to Andalucia? Learn from my personal travel experiences, avoid these pitfalls, and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip!
By Liza S. | Updated 24 Jul 2024 | Andalucia | Places To Go |
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Ah, Andalucia! The land of flamenco, tapas, and charming plazas. If you've ever dreamt of wandering through its enchanting streets, you're not alone. I remember my first trip like it was yesterday—excitedly packing my bags, ready to soak in every bit of southern Spain's charm.
But, oh boy, did I make some rookie mistakes!
In this post, I'll share the biggest blunders I (and many others) have made when planning a trip to Andalucia. From underestimating the summer heat to missing out on the best local cuisine, I'll guide you through what not to do, ensuring your trip is as smooth as the olive oil you'll find in every Andalucian kitchen.
Ready to avoid those pitfalls? Let’s help you plan a smooth-sailing, unforgettable holiday in Andalucia!
Picture this: it's mid-July, and you're strolling through the streets of Seville, dreaming of sipping sangria in a quaint plaza.
The reality: the sun feels like it's auditioning for a role in a sci-fi movie about melting humans.
Welcome to Andalucia in the summer!
Many travellers underestimate just how intense the summer heat in Andalucia can be. Temperatures regularly soar above 40°C (104°F) in the summer months, making midday sightseeing a sweaty, exhausting affair.
So, how do you beat the heat?
First, consider travelling to Andalucia during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) instead when the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching. I made my first visit to Andalucia in October and it was warmer than I thought it would be.
You may even want to consider visiting in winter. It’s actually one of my favourite times to visit Andalucia as the winter weather is quite mild and it’s less crowded.
If summer is your only option, then embrace the Spanish way of life: start your day early, take a long siesta during the hottest part of the day, and resume activities in the cooler evening hours.
Be sure to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. And for the love of all things cool, never forget your sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat!
You may also want to avoid inland Andalucia (where summer is the most intense) and head to the coast instead where the hot weather is a bit more bearable. Check out Costa del Sol or, my favourite Andalucian coast, Costa de la Luz.
Remember, Andalucia's charm isn't going anywhere, so pace yourself and enjoy it without turning into a puddle of sweat.
We all feel it from time to time: that dreaded Travel FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
And I totally get it!
Andalucia is like a treasure chest brimming with gems, each more dazzling than the last. From the grandeur of the Alhambra in Granada to the lovely beaches of the Costa del Sol, the region is packed with must-see destinations.
The temptation to see everything in one go is strong, but trust me, it’s a recipe for burnout.
On my first Spain trip, I ambitiously planned to visit Seville, Granada, and Córdoba - all in just 5 days. By the end of it, I was exhausted… especially since I packed my days full of sight-seeing and walking!
Andalucia’s rich culture and history deserve to be savoured, not rushed through in a blur.
Instead of trying to tick off every box, focus on a few key locations and truly immerse yourself in their unique charm.
Spend a few days wandering through Seville’s enchanting streets, take your time exploring the Alhambra’s intricate details, or relax on the beaches of Malaga without constantly checking the clock.
Create a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneous discoveries—sometimes the best experiences aren’t planned.
And remember, it’s okay to leave some sights for your next visit. Andalucia isn’t going anywhere (and neither will your desire to return!).
By prioritising quality over quantity, you’ll enjoy a richer, more fulfilling experience. After all, the best memories are made when you’re not in a rush.
Check out our itineraries to help plan your Andalucia visit.
Cadiz Old Town
When travelling to Andalucia, one of the biggest adjustments is adapting to the Spanish schedule.
Many travellers, myself included, struggle initially with the unique daily rhythm, leading to unnecessary frustration. The Spanish way of life involves later mealtimes, leisurely afternoons, and vibrant evenings. Fighting this schedule rather than embracing it can throw a wrench in your plans.
To make the most of your trip, try to align your schedule with the local rhythm. The day in Andalucia typically starts slow and relaxed. Breakfast is light, often just a coffee and a tostada, enjoyed around 9.00am.
Lunch, the main meal of the day, typically happens between 2.00pm and 4.00pm. Find a great menu del dia and enjoy a leisurely lunch. If you’re used to eating lunch at noon, you might find yourself in an empty restaurant or having to go to a more touristy area where restaurants open earlier.
Then there’s the famous siesta, a tradition that is still alive in Andalucia.
From about 2.00pm to 5.00pm, many businesses shut down, and the streets empty out as locals retreat from the midday heat. This is a time for rest and relaxation, so fighting it will only lead to disappointment.
I’ve had travellers ask me what to do when they find everything closed during these hours. Use this time to relax, perhaps by enjoying a leisurely nap yourself, spending time in a cafe, or visiting attractions that remain open.
Dinner in Andalucia is a late affair, often starting no earlier than 9.00pm and extending into the night. It’s a social event, meant to be enjoyed slowly with friends and family. Adapting to this timing can be tough, especially if you’re used to eating earlier, but it’s an integral part of the Andalucian experience.
By syncing with the Spanish schedule, you’ll find your experience in Andalucia more enjoyable and authentic. You’ll have the added benefit of avoiding the midday heat and getting to experience the vibrant nightlife that defines southern Spain.
Plus, who doesn't love an excuse for a mid-afternoon nap?
Raise your hand if you've ever packed three pairs of shoes "just in case" or stuffed your suitcase with enough outfits for a month-long fashion show. Guilty as charged!
Overpacking is a common mistake, and in Andalucia, it can turn your dream holiday into a logistical nightmare.
I once found myself dragging an oversized suitcase uphill through the cobblestone streets of Granada, wishing I had been more selective with my packing. Those charming old streets? They're not so charming when you're lugging half your wardrobe behind you.
The key to avoiding this mistake is to pack smart.
Andalucia’s relaxed vibe means you can leave the formal wear at home.
Think lightweight, breathable clothes to beat the heat, and comfortable shoes for all the walking you'll do. A good rule of thumb is to lay out everything you think you'll need, then halve it. (Trust me, you won't miss those extra jeans.)
It’s easy to find laundry facilities or services, so you can wash and re-wear clothes. It's also worth packing versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.
And don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a travel adapter.
Travelling light not only makes getting around easier but also leaves room for the treasures you'll want to bring back. From artisanal olive oil to hand-painted ceramics, you'll want space in your bag for those special souvenirs.
So, next time you're packing for Andalucia, keep it light and simple. Your back—and your sense of adventure—will thank you.
Spain's train network is a traveller's dream—efficient, comfortable, and scenic. But here's a rookie mistake I learned the hard way: not booking train tickets in advance.
On my first trip, when I travelled around Andalucia by train, I didn't book train tickets until the last minute and ended up paying significantly more. Ouch!
Train travel in Andalucia is popular, especially on routes between major cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba. Tickets can sell out quickly, particularly during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
Booking in advance not only secures your seat but often saves you money as the train tickets work on dynamic pricing.
To avoid disappointment, plan your travel itinerary and book your train tickets as soon as your dates are set.
Renfe, Spain's national railway company, offers an easy-to-use online booking system where you can compare schedules and prices (be sure to toggle the language on their website to English with the tab on the top right!).
Alternatively, you can also use a platform like Trainline which is more user-friendly. I’ve used it myself and had no issues.
Another tip: choose the high-speed AVE trains when possible.
They significantly cut travel time, leaving you more hours to explore. For instance, the AVE can get you from Seville to Madrid in just over two hours, a journey that would take more than five hours by car.
Navigating Andalucia by train is a wonderful way to soak in the scenery and travel sustainably. Just remember to book those tickets ahead of time, and you'll be cruising through the olive groves and rolling hills without a hitch.
Setenil de las Bodegas
When planning a trip to Andalucia, it's easy to focus on the big-ticket cities—Seville, Granada, Malaga. And while these cities are undoubtedly captivating, skipping the smaller towns means missing out on some of the most authentic and enchanting experiences the region has to offer.
I completely skipped all the small towns when I first visited Andalucia because I don't drive and I thought it would be too difficult to visit any of them.
Big mistake!
I later discovered that many of these charming towns are accessible by public transport or day tours, making them perfectly doable even without a car.
Small towns and villages like Setenil de las Bodegas, Arcos de la Frontera, and Antequera offer a slower pace and a deeper connection to Andalucian culture.
Here, you can wander through narrow, cobblestone streets, enjoy leisurely meals in family-run restaurants, and chat with locals who are more than happy to share stories and tips. These places often have rich histories and unique attractions that you won’t find in the bigger cities.
For instance, in the town of Úbeda, you can marvel at Renaissance architecture, while in the picturesque village of Mijas, you can happily wander through its whitewashed streets and peek into each cute local store.
Each small town has its own unique charm and surprises.
So, when planning your Andalucian adventure, make sure to leave room for these hidden gems. You’ll find that the heart and soul of Andalucia often lie in its smaller, lesser-known locales.
Take the time to explore beyond the beaten path—you won’t regret it!
Check out the best day trips from Seville without a car and the best car-free day trips from Malaga.
You may also want to read about 10 pretty white villages to visit.
One of the greatest joys of travelling is indulging in local food, and Andalucia is a food lover’s paradise.
Yet, a common mistake many travellers make, myself included, is sticking to familiar foods and missing out on the region’s culinary delights. On my first visit, I found myself gravitating towards simple dishes I knew, like patatas bravas and croquetas, completely overlooking the local gems.
From tapas to fresh seafood and traditional desserts, the food here is an essential part of the cultural experience. Imagine missing out on a serving of rabo de toro (oxtail stew) that’s been stewing for hours or not tasting a plate of jamón ibérico, Spain’s famous cured ham.
Start your culinary adventure with tapas. These small, shareable dishes are perfect for trying a variety of flavours in one meal. Don’t miss out on classics like gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and albóndigas (meatballs) that are appealing even to the pickiest of eaters.
For a true taste of the sea, head to the coastal towns and savour fresh seafood like fried fish, grilled octopus, and gambas pil pil (prawn).
And let’s not forget the drinks. Pair your meals with local wines, sherries, or a refreshing tinto de verano (red wine with lemon soda), a favourite during the hot Andalucian summers.
One of the best ways to discover Andalucia’s cuisine is by joining a food tour. These tours are led by local guides who know the best spots and hidden gems. They’ll introduce you to traditional dishes, local markets, and authentic dining experiences that you might miss on your own.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to learn about the history and culture behind the food.
Embracing Andalucia’s culinary scene will enrich your travel experience and leave your taste buds dancing with joy. So, step out of your comfort zone and savour the unique flavours this beautiful region has to offer. You’ll return home with a full belly and a heart full of fond food memories.
You can read about my Seville food tour experience and my review of a Malaga tapas tour to learn more about what to expect on a food tour in Andalucia.
The Alhambra
If there's one extra piece of advice you should take to heart, it's this: book your Alhambra tickets well in advance.
The Alhambra in Granada is one of Andalucia's most iconic attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. Tickets often sell out months ahead, especially during peak seasons.
Unfortunately, many people find themselves disappointed when they wait until the last minute. To avoid this, secure your tickets as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Purchase tickets directly on the official Alhambra website or use a reputable platform like Get Your Guide and ensure you get the date and time that suits your itinerary.
A common query I get from travellers is how to get tickets when the Alhambra is sold out. There are some workarounds which you can read in my post on visiting the Alhambra… but really, save yourself the heartache and just get your tickets early.
Trust me, the Alhambra's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views are worth the extra planning. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss, and booking in advance guarantees you a visit to one of Spain’s most magnificent treasures.
Prefer a guided experience? Check out my picks for the best Alhambra tours.
And that’s it - things not to do when planning your Andalucia trip!
By avoiding these common mistakes—underestimating the summer heat, trying to see everything in one trip, not adapting to the Spanish schedule, overpacking, not booking train tickets in advance, skipping the small towns, and missing out on local cuisine—you'll ensure your trip is smooth, enjoyable, and truly immersive.
Whether you’re exploring the grand palaces or the hidden gems, Andalucia has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you with stories to share.
So plan wisely, travel light, and dive into the magic of southern Spain. You’ll come back with memories to cherish and a longing to return.
Buen viaje!
Need more travel inspiration? Get your FREE copy of the 'Ultimate Andalucia Bucket List' which features 13 incredible places and experiences to add to your Spain bucket list.
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Travelling to/around Spain and need some help? Here are my favourite travel resources.
I usually use Booking.com to look for hotels or apartment rentals. Lots of choice & you can unlock more discounts with their Genius loyalty programme!
To research transportation options around Spain, I like using Omio. It’s an easy way to compare different modes of transport and prices in one place. To search train routes, schedules, and prices, I recommend using Trainline.
Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore Andalucia at your own pace. Click here to compare car rental prices. (You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is in Spain!)
Looking for tours & activities in Andalucia? I usually use Get Your Guide to get tickets and book tours. Viator also has a huge catalog of activities and tours across many cities in Spain. Our Viator Shop has my top recommendations, all in one place!
Guruwalk is my favourite platform to find the best free walking tours in a city.
For last-minute holiday deals, check out Expedia UK.
For money transfers or spending overseas in foreign currency, Wise is my favourite borderless banking service. I love their debit card that's without fees and always use it when I travel.
Travel insurance is a must to protect against emergencies and unexpected incidents. I personally use SafetyWing and you can get a no-obligation quote from SafetyWing here.
For an easy way to stay connected on the road, get an eSim from Airalo. It's affordable and, best of all, you'll be connected the moment you arrive!
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