Things to do in the Costa del Sol

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fuengirola Market and Mijas tour

There's no better way to mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in their way of life than a trip to the market. On this half-day excursion, you'll visit the Fuengirola market – the largest on the Costa del Sol – and then make the short trip to the whitewashed village of Mijas for some free time exploring its pretty streets.

El Ranchito and Andalusian Night

Horses are in the blood in Andalusia. You'll be wowed by the incredible horsemanship on display during this late-afternoon equestrian show, with the option to stay out for a renowned Andalusian Night – consisting of a traditional dinner and an authentic flamenco show.

Taberna Flamenca Pepe Lopez Ticket

The Taberna Flamenca Pepe Lopez offers traditional gypsy flamenco in a small, cave-like venue in the heart of Torremolinos. Entertaining locals and visitors alike since the mid-60s, it's something of an institution. You'll witness a pulsating and emotionally charged show featuring dancers and musicians.

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.

Oil mill and Agri-food market from Costa del Sol

Visit an oil mill and agri-food market in Andalusia region and discover all the secrets of genuine local food.

Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas visit

Ronda is a taste of the real Andalusia. Spend the day exploring this historic highland gem with free time to explore at your own pace. After a pit stop in the white-washed village of Setenil de las Bodegas, you'll continue onto Ronda to visit landmarks such as Plaza de Toros, Tajo Bridge and much more.

Tangier guided tour and lunch from the Costa del Sol

Exotic and historic, Tangier is Europe's gateway to Africa, just a stone's throw from Tarifa. You'll be picked up from your Costa del Sol hotel to board the fast ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar. Once in Tangier, you'll spend the day exploring, the rambling medina and the impressive Kasbah, before wrapping up with a traditional Moroccan feast. You'll find yourself on Morocco's shores in no time, stepping into the country's third-largest city. Firstly, your guide will introduce you to the city with a sightseeing bus tour around the outskirts before diving deeper into the maze of lanes that wind their way around the medina and Kasbah – the 17th-century fort that offers views stretching across the Strait.Then, at the souk you'll have free time for a tea break and a chance to soak up the bustling atmosphere. Round off your visit with a traditional Moroccan lunch – think zesty salads and aromatic tagines – before boarding the ferry back to Spain.

Full-day guided tour of Ronda with Reservatauro Ranch visit

Heading into the hills from the Costa del Sol, you'll come across one of the most storied medieval towns in the region – the one and only Ronda. Spend the whole day exploring its cobbled alleys and discover its history and local traditions, including a visit to a bull ranch. Marilo, one of our expert local guides, says ‘Ronda's famous bridge is still known as Puente Nuevo, even though construction began over 250 years ago. It joins the two parts of Ronda – the new town, “Mercadillo”, and the old town, “La Ciudad”.'After arrival, you'll set off on a guided walk around the town, checking out its churches, mansions and the Puente Nuevo. This magnificent stone bridge straddles the 100-metre-deep Tajo gorge that bisects the town, serving up dizzying views. Ernest Hemingway was a frequent visitor – so much so, there's a sculpture of him, opposite one of Orson Welles, another Ronda aficionado – in Blas Infante park. Then, you'll enjoy more views over the ravine from the Casa Don Bosco, a modernist mansion perched above the gorge, as well as a glass of wine.You'll round off at the Reservatauro Ranch – set in a biosphere reserve filled with centuries-old oak trees, it's a perfect habitat for breeding Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses. Learn more about the history of Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses, in a sustainable and eco-friendly way. You'll stroll through wooded pasturelands studded with oaks and get to meet these lovingly cared-for animals, which are free to roam the vast ranch.