Rent a Car Tour: Spain - Magical Andalusia

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.

About the destination: The Islamic leaders of Granada cherished and beautified this regional capital. Overlook the humble apartments of Granada and gaze upwards: the imposing clay-red Alhambra palace stands out against the Sierra Nevada, the sunniest ski slopes in Europe. The invigorating coastline is also within close proximity. The Alhambra, which translates to 'the red one' in Arabic, is a globally renowned Islamic monument of enduring magnificence, situated on a hill blanketed with lush woods and gardens. The numerous courtyards and rooms within the palaces of the Casa Real are among the finest examples of Mudejar art and architecture. Built after the Reconquista of Granada to replace the mosque that previously stood there, the Cathedral of Granada is the first purely Renaissance cathedral in Spain. The Royal Chapel, accessible through a separate entrance, houses the intricate tomb of Ferdinand and Isabella, along with Isabella's impressive private art collection. South of the Cathedral lies the Albayzin, the old Arab quarter, a maze of winding alleyways with Moorish-style archways adorning the walls. Granada is renowned for its holy week celebrations, which include festivities and processions. For a less cultural experience, stick to the student pubs around the university.

About the destination: Ronda is a town in Malaga. The ancient city of Ronda boasts one of the most beautiful historical centers in Spain. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1966, it contains a rich and diverse historic heritage. Its old town has been designated as a Property of Cultural Interest. Celts, Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs all inhabited these lands, which were later reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs. Several bridges connect the two halves of one of the most fascinating towns on the route of the Whitewashed Villages, nestled in the heart of the Ronda hills, just a few kilometers from the Costa del Sol.

About the destination: Seville has a unique charm, this vibrant city is filled with enchanting traditional architecture in hues of lemons, plums, and oranges. The Guadalquivir River flows roughly from north to south through Seville. The majority of the city, including the historic district of Barrio de Santa Cruz, is located on the east bank, while the Barrio de Triana is situated on the west bank. At midnight, spontaneous singing, clapping, and guitar playing fill the bars and streets. During the day, the city's diverse heritage becomes evident. The Romans, Moors, Catholic Spaniards, and now, throngs of tourists have all attempted to claim Seville as their own. Indeed, Seville has always managed to ignite the imagination of newcomers. From the outside, the cathedral may not seem impressive; you must enter to truly grasp its size. Huge pillars support the vaulted ceiling, and the abundance of treasure is unbelievably magnificent. Another major attraction of the city is La Giralda, which was the minaret of the Almohad mosque. From the top, there's a spectacular view of the city across the spiked spires and buttresses of the roof. La Torre del Oro, a symbol of the city, originally covered in golden tiles, has been standing guard over the town since 1220. Seville at night is magical, everything takes on a mystical aura that can mesmerize and if you know how to experience it, you will be captivated by its charm.

About the destination: Jerez de la Frontera is located in Costa de la Luz, in Cádiz. It is one of the major cities in Andalusia. Historically, Jerez has gradually become the logistics center, major transport hub, and the main economic engine in the province of Cádiz. Jerez offers numerous possibilities: the incredible equestrian shows at the Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and the Hierro del Bocado Stud Farm; a visit to the incomparable Jerez wineries, "cathedrals" where wine and brandy are born; the daily pleasure of enjoying the purest Flamenco, its Old Center, declared a Historic-Artistic Monumental Complex, where churches, old public buildings, and unique structures can be discovered among orange trees and fountains throughout the squares, streets, and nooks and crannies. There are also numerous museums and heritage centers that feature fighting bulls, horses, Flamenco, or wine, along with others of great interest that capture the tradition and heritage of Jerez.

About the destination: Cádiz is located in southern Spain, in the region of Andalusia. Its coastline is part of the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) and features numerous golden sandy beaches, ranging from urban beaches to extensive, practically unspoiled stretches of sand. Inland, the popular White Villages Route is highly recommended. The city hosts three festivals of International Tourist Interest: the prestigious Carnival of Cadiz, the unique horse racing events on the beach at Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and the elegant Horse Fair in Jerez de la Frontera. Part of the province also lies within the Doñana National Park, and there are five other nature reserves in Cádiz's exceptional natural environment. Cádiz is also known for its delicious gastronomy, particularly its “pescaíto frito” (perfectly-fried platters of assorted fresh fish) and shellfish, ideally accompanied by the wines found on the Wine and Brandy routes in the Marco de Jerez region.

About the destination: Vejer de la Frontera is a Spanish hilltop town and municipality located in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia, situated on the right bank of the Barbate River. The town of Vejer de la Frontera is perched on a low hill, offering views of the Straits of Gibraltar and is surrounded by orchards and orange groves. It is home to several ancient churches and convents, and the architecture of many of its houses harkens back to the period of Moorish rule, which lasted from 711 until the town was taken over by Saint Ferdinand of Castile in 1248. The main industries here are agriculture and fruit farming; the area also breeds fighting bulls, and an annual running of the bulls event takes place.

About the destination: Estepona is a town and municipality located in Costa del Sol. Estepona is one of the few seaside towns that has managed to retain its quaint charm and character, even amidst the surge of tourism. Nevertheless, all the amenities for tourists are available, including hotels, restaurants, leisure and cultural activities, and shops. Many street cafes and tapas bars continue to serve traditional Spanish delicacies, and the steep, cobbled, narrow streets seem more suited for horses than cars. You'll also discover unique shops and bodegas in Estepona, often in the most unexpected places, all of which are very welcoming, friendly, and affordable. Playa Del Cristo is a small cove located five minutes west of Estepona Port. It has lifeguards on duty and "chiringuitos" or beachfront bar/restaurants. The Estepona Exhibition and Congress Palace is the town's center for exhibitions and congresses. This center hosts nearly all of Estepona's organized events, including product presentations, fairs, commercial exhibitions, concerts, and more.

About the destination: Mijas is a white town with Arabic architecture, located just 30 km from Málaga on the Costa del Sol. A white pearl in the mountains! The steep path to this small town welcomes its visitors with red flowers in blue flowerpots that sparkle against the white walls. The town is most famous for its unique "donkey taxis," popular among tourists from all over the world, the small bullring, the old Arabic wall, the churches, and the frequently visited Santuario de la Virgen de la Peña, the sanctuary of the town's patron saint. You might not come here for authenticity, but you will want to visit for a day of relaxation in one of the most touristic white villages of Málaga.

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.