Nat Geo Day Tour: El aceite de oliva andaluz, del olivar a la mesa

Gibraltar Shopping

Gibraltar's shopping scene is surely unique. With plenty of tax-free goods, unique souvenirs, and vibrant shopping districts, this tour from Costa del Sol gives you roughly five hours to bag a bargain in this sunny slice of Britain.A scattering of Union Jack flags, red phone boxes and arched doorways gives Gibraltar town centre a distinctly British feel. And we'll drop you off in the heart of it for a spot of retail therapy. Pedestrianised Main Street is a great place to pick up everything from clothes to crystals. It has all the British high street chains as well as international brand boutiques. You'll find that electronic goods, spirits and tobacco are much cheaper in Gibraltar, too.Fashionistas will love the cosmopolitan waterfront-complex, Ocean Village, with a host of stylish boutiques, trendy shops, and high-end brands. Or, if you're after souvenirs to take home, a trip to Gibraltar's lively market is a must.

Aqualand Torremolinos Water Park

A day of watery fun that appeals to all ages is the name of the game at Aqualand waterpark in Torremolinos. Combine adrenaline-fuelled rides with more laid back attractions and, when you're worn out, refuel in one of the poolside cafes or head to the picnic area. Everyone will love this ticket-only, family-friendly day out.

Costasol Cruceros Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

Enjoy some sun, sea and relaxation on this boat tour along the Costa del Sol. Search for dolphins on a two-hour trip, with great coastal views and a chance to swim at sea.Setting sail from Benalmadena, you can head out into open water, hoping to see dolphins playing or feeding in the distance. Both bottlenose and common varieties call this place home and your knowledgeable captains know just where to head. You'll have plenty of space to top up your tan on the open deck or get some shade indoors. And, if you're sailing during summer, once your captain has found the idyllic spot, you'll be able to jump in the water for a refreshing swim.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Echoes of Al-Andalus in Malaga

Journey through time and culture as you uncover the fascinating heritage of Al-Andalus in Malaga. Visit the Alcazaba, a formidable fortress standing as a testament to the military prowess of the Arab era. As you explore its imposing walls and strategic design, you'll be transported back to a period of grandeur. Continue the adventure at Malaga Museum, where Al-Andalus' vibrancy is showcased through a collection of ceramics and Moorish calligraphy. Marvel at exhibits merging history and art, delving into the cultural richness of the past. Next, you will stop at a restaurant to enjoy a typical tapa merging Arabic and Mediterranean flavours, washed down with local wine. Then, learn how to write your name in Arabic at a calligraphy workshop, crafted exclusively for National Geographic travellers. Discover the characteristic streets of the historic centre, revealing the urban heritage shaped by Al-Andalus. Admire the decorative tiles and intricate details that bear witness to the fusion of cultures, creating a unique landscape. Wrap up your experience at the colourful Atarazanas Market, its Moorish entrance beckoning you into the sensory overload of colours and aromas. Engage with vendors as you meander through stalls filled with fruits and herbs. To fully immerse yourself in the local experience, take a sip from an Andalusian-style wineskin.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Andalusian Olive Oil, from Grove to Table

With centuries of heritage in every drop, Molino de La Paca is the perfect place to explore the art of high-quality olive oil. Here, the bond between local producers and their olive trees - passed down over generations, is felt in every detail. The experience begins with a stroll through the olive groves surrounding the mill. You'll learn about the care and cultivation of the olive tree and why this fertile land produces some of the region's finest oils.In the shade of the olive trees, you'll enjoy fresh orange juice from the Guadalhorce Valley and a selection of ripe olives as you delve into the cultural and social importance of olive cultivation in southern Spain.Next, you'll visit the heart of Molino de La Paca to discover how each olive is transformed into high-quality extra virgin olive oil, from milling to extraction. Then, you'll get to sample two varieties of olive oil, learning to identify the flavors and aromas that set each apart — and why, unlike wine, its taste doesn't improve with age. It's an excellent chance to compare taste experiences and learn how to recognize the quality and freshness that make a truly great olive oil. The day ends with a cooking demonstration where you'll learn how to prepare porra antequera, a beloved traditional soup in which olive oil takes center stage. Savor this local specialty and discover why this golden staple of the Mediterranean diet and culture contributes so much to health and longevity.

Cordoba Tour with Mosque Visit from Nerja Area

Cordoba's heyday as a medieval melting pot of cultures has left the city with a collection of historical buildings that form the backdrop of your tour. The mesmerising Mosque-Cathedral, with its multitude of arches and lavishly decorated mihrabs, is the star of this visit. You'll also discover the former Jewish quarter and enjoy free time to poke around the plant-laden patios of the old town.

Mariposario Benalmadena butterfly park

Butterflies are the world's most beautiful and delicate insects. And at the Mariposario de Benalmadena, you'll learn about the many exotic species that fly freely within this custom-built butterfly park and breeding centre.

Day Trip to Gibraltar from Nerja Area

A day trip to Gibraltar is one of the most popular activities in the Costa del Sol. And there's a reason why. This slice of Britain under the Mediterranean sun is culturally fascinating. You'll enjoy free time to explore the town, whether it's browsing the bargain-laden duty-free shops, venturing into the Rock's tunnels or meeting its Barbary apes, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Aqualand and Croc Park Combi Ticket

Double up on the fun with this value-for-money combo ticket. You'll get all-day passes to two of the Costa Del Sol's best attractions. See Europe's largest collection of crocs at Crocodile Park and make a splash at Aqualand – the biggest waterpark on the coast.Get your adrenaline pumping at Aqualand waterpark. Take on the Boomerang, the terrifying Black Hole and the 22-metre-long vertical freefall Kamikaze slide. Or you can relax on Niagra Lake as little ones enjoy three children's pools complete with their own fun-sized attractions. Plus, you'll find plenty of sunbeds and grassy areas where you can soak up the sun alongside cafés and bars too – it's one fun family day out.At Crocodile Park you'll discover Europe's largest collection of crocs. From recently hatched babies to the 4m-long Nile crocodile known as Big Daddy, you'll get close-up views of these impressive beasts. Fully guided tours with feeding demonstrations are offered at least three times daily.

Ferry between Benalmadena and Fuengirola

A great way to discover the Costa del Sol is by relaxing ferry ride. Hop from Benalmadena to Fuengirola with this handy ferry service, up and down the coastline.