Help! We need to travel slowly so probably only 2 places. We are thinking of Malaga, but really don't know Spain at all and are only saying that based on some friends loving it. We will likely not have a car so places that are good for wandering on foot. Please give us any ideas that come to you! We'd love any festivals or celebrations we can find. We are a family of 4. The kids are 11 and 15. And yes, this is this year!!!
Many thanks for any input!
If I had time for only two bases in southern Spain, one would not be Malaga. In all fairness, I've never set foot in the city. But I think few people will suggest Malaga instead of Seville and Granada*. Cordoba would also be higher on my list than Malaga, but it's close enough to Seville that you don't absolutely have to spend the night there. I've also chosen to visit Ronda twice.
Malaga might be a better idea in warmer weather, if you were trying to appease your children with beach time.
Pick up a good guide book to southern Spain (an old one from the library will work) and skim through it.
Super Helpful, Acraven! I really appreciate it! I'm starting from scratch and at the last minute so all ideas really help me narrow things down!
Cheers!
One of your choices should be Seville - lots to see. Your whole family might like to do a 3-hour bike tour there. The town is flat so an easy ride and an enjoyable way to learn about the history of Seville and Triana across the river. We also liked Ronda. The gorge was fun to walk down and is great if your family likes outdoor activities/walks.
December
10. Fly to Seville (5 nights)
11. Seville
12. Day to Cordoba (Mezquita)
13. Day to Cadiz or Jerez
14. Seville
15. Train to Granada (2 nights)
TRN13922
Dep 11:45 SEVILLA-SANTA JUSTA (Spain)
Arr 15:12 GRANADA (Spain)
16..Alhambra
17..Train or bus to Malaga (2 nights)
TRN13943
Dep 11:24 GRANADA (Spain)
Arr 12:58 ANTEQUERA-SANTA ANA (Spain)
AVE 2112
Dep 13:53 ANTEQUERA-SANTA ANA (Spain)
Arr 14:17 MALAGA MARIA ZAMBRANO (Spain)
18..Malaga
19..Depart Malaga
If you really want just two places, then Seville and Cordoba. With that much time though, I count 9 nights, I would do Seville (4 nights), then Cordoba (2 nights) and Granada (2 or 3 nights, depending on your departure city). If Granada, be sure to try to get Alhambra tickets right away. If you cannot go to the Alhambra, then skip Granada.
Definitely agree that Seville and Granada are must stops. There are several sights in Seville that I think your children would enjoy...the Cathedral is massive and breathtaking. Also Christoper Columbus' tomb is very interesting. They might also enjoy the Plaza de Espana..One of the Star Wars movies was filmed there and it is beautiful.
I can't imagine going to Granada and not seeing the Alhambra. I have seen it 3 times and will go back in May to show my husband.
On a side note, take to heart what Rick Steves says about the Gypsy ladies and their rosemary sprigs. You will see them all over southern Spain. Just say "no gracias" and keep walking. I've never had a problem with this approach. The most worked up I have ever seen them is when they encroach on each other's territory!
I was in Malaga and vicinity for 6 days in February -
The area is beautiful, the people are nice, friendly and fun, the food good and the wine good and cheap.
Public transit is good (including high-speed trains to Madrid, Seville and elsewhere). The Costa del Sol is nice. Some areas are more 'expat' than others; highly recommended.
This is all super helpful everyone! I really appreciate it! We are still fine tuning our dates so I'm still deciding but I think Seville and Grenada for sure!
Cheers!
