Hi Everyone!
I’m planning a trip to Andalucia, Spain next month and finalizing my itinerary. I’ve come up with two options, but I’m torn between them and would love to get your input!
Itinerary A involves renting a car and exploring the countryside at my own pace, while Itinerary B focuses more on the cities with public transport to Ronda, a small taste of the countryside. At first, I was hesitant about driving in Spain, but I’ve driven in Italy before (exploring places like Montepulciano, Montalcino, and Pienza), and I found the small-town driving fun manageable and enjoyable. But; that still doesnt really take away my nervousness driving in Spain because I’ve never driven there before and this would be a solo trip (unlike Italy where I was with my mom).
Given my past experience, I’m leaning towards Itinerary A, because I love exploring quaint villages and scenic drives more than spending too much time in cities. However, I’m wondering if the villages in Andalucia offer that same tranquil, countryside charm I’m after, or if they might not be as picturesque and relaxing as I’m imagining and I’m wondering if driving there isn’t really worth it if there’s not much there.
Here are the two itineraries:
Itinerary A
- Land in Malaga
- Drive to Ronda (3 nights), use as a base to explore nearby white villages
- Drive to Seville (3 nights), drop off the car
- Cordoba (2 nights)
- Granada (3 nights)
- Depart from Granada or Malaga
Itinerary B
- Land in Seville
- Seville (4 nights with a day trip to Cordoba)
- Bus to Ronda
- Ronda (2 nights)
- Granada (3 nights)
- Depart from Granada or Malaga
Would love to hear your thoughts, especially if you’ve experienced either itinerary or know about the vibes of the villages around Ronda and other towns. Also itinerary A would be about $500 more expensive than itinerary B given the car rental (paying for full premium) and change of hotel costs.
Thank you in advance!