Route
This 9-day journey captures the essence of Andalusia across three cities where you stay several nights: Granada, Córdoba and Seville. You begin in Granada with the impressive Alhambra, continue inland to Córdoba and its iconic Mezquita, and finish in Seville among cathedrals, palaces and lively squares.
Pace
Three cities, two transfers and no daily packing. You have time to wander through historic quarters, explore monuments in depth and enjoy tapas or a flamenco performance in the evening. An optional extension to the Costa de la Luz or Costa del Sol is possible.
Highlights
Nasrid architecture at the Alhambra, the whitewashed streets of the Albaicín, the striking arches of the Mezquita, the baroque towers of Écija and Sevillian icons such as the Giralda, the Alcázar and Plaza de España. Andalusia reveals its Moorish grandeur and southern vibrancy.
Accommodation
You stay eight nights in carefully selected Caractère hotels in the historic centres of Granada, Córdoba and Seville, perfectly located for exploring on foot.
Profile
Designed for travellers who want to experience the very best of Andalusia in a limited time: culture, architecture, flamenco and gastronomy.
DAY 1: Departure to MALAGA
You fly to Málaga and drive your rental car to Granada, where you stay three nights in a Caractère hotel.
DAYS 2 AND 3: GRANADA
The highlight is the world-famous Alhambra, the Moorish palace of the Nasrid kings with the Generalife gardens. As tickets are limited, we secure them in advance upon request. Visit the royal tombs in the cathedral, explore the Albaicín district and enjoy an evening flamenco show.
DAY 4: GRANADA – CÓRDOBA
Free time in Granada in the morning before driving to Córdoba for two nights.
DAY 5: CÓRDOBA
In Córdoba, explore the Mezquita, the former mosque turned cathedral, the Jewish quarter, the Alcázar and Palacio de Viana. Evenings are ideal for strolling through whitewashed streets lit by lanterns.
DAY 6: CÓRDOBA – SEVILLE
Drive via the N4, with an optional stop in Écija or Carmona, to Seville for three nights.
DAYS 7 AND 8: SEVILLE
Discover Seville’s Giralda and cathedral, Torre del Oro, Casa de Pilatos, Alcázar, Plaza de España and María Luisa Park. Optional guided tour of the historic centre. Food lovers can learn about the art of slicing jamón and the differences between Bellota, Ibérico and Serrano.
DAY 9: Return
Return your rental car at Seville or Málaga airport and fly home. Extend your stay with a few nights on the Costa de la Luz or Costa del Sol if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions – Compact Andalusia
Do I need a rental car?
Yes. Distances between Granada, Córdoba and Seville range from 130 to 200 km. A car allows for cultural stops and an optional beach extension. Historic centres are largely pedestrian; selected hotels offer nearby parking.
When is the best time to visit?
April to June and September to October offer pleasant temperatures (18°C to 28°C). Summer is very hot, while winter is milder with shorter days. Alhambra tickets always require advance booking.
What makes this journey unique?
A compact blend of Moorish heritage, live flamenco traditions and Spanish gastronomy, with multiple nights per city to fully experience each destination. An optional coastal extension adds a relaxing finale.
Why book with Caractère?
- Best price guarantee
- Caractère extras
- Just one phone call or email away from our enthusiastic travel experts
- Pay safely
- No extra or hidden fees