Markets & crafts in Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - Sites & Bites: Malaga city tour, tapas and caramelised nuts

Malaga's old town takes centre stage on this Sites & Bites half-day walking tour. You'll stop by the city's main sights, hear about their history from your guide and get a taste for this place's culinary scene. First up is Gibralfaro Castle, a historic fortress once a key part of the city's defence strategy. Once you're up here, you'll see why it was such a major player – the view up here packs in the whole city, its port, and the Mediterranean Sea.Then, you'll hop on a bus into the city centre for a guided tour of Malaga's main sights. Stop by the Alcazaba of Malaga, an 11th-century Moorish fortress, as well as the ruins of the Roman Theatre dating all the way back to the 1st century BC. Next, stroll towards Malaga Cathedral, known affectionately as La Manquita in Spanish. This nickname, which translates to The One-Armed Lady, refers to the cathedral's unfinished south tower – it's become a symbolic part of the cathedral.Head over to Bodegas El Pimpi, a tavern known for its cosy atmosphere and classic Andalusian fare, for your first bite of the day. It's pure tradition on the menu here, with a typical Malaguena tapa served in the classic way – with a drink. Then, wind your way to Sabor a Espana – the sweet scent of caramel filling the street will lead you straight to this tasty spot – to see how caramelised nuts are made and, of course, you'll get to sample some. Finally, wrap the tour up with some free time to wander through the city at your own pace.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Costa del Sol - Embrujo Andalusi Festival in Carratraca

For a fun dose of time travel, head to Embrujo Andalusi in Carratraca, where you'll be dropped right into the heart of Medieval Andalusia. Over one summer weekend, the village lights up with thousands of candles, recreating the magical atmosphere of an era where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures all coexisted in perfect harmony. Snap pics of the candlelit scenes and enjoy some free time wandering through the medieval market. Here, you can haggle for the likes of traditional jewellery, colourful ceramics and handmade textiles. Local artisans will be showing off their skills, too, while live music fills the air – all this gives the festival an authentic, back-in-the-day feel. And it gets even better. Expect lively Andalusian dance performances, street theatre that'll make you smile, and craft workshops where you can get hands-on. Don't forget to dive into the local cuisine, as well – it blends Arab and Andalusian flavours into dishes that're seriously a must-try.

Costa del Sol - Feria de Malaga tour

Hop on this Feria de Málaga tour and dive into one of Spain's most colourful festivals. We'll kick things off with killer views over Málaga, soaking in the sights of this sun-splashed coastal city. Our first stop is the Gibralfaro Castle, a towering fortress from where you'll be able to snap photos the city and the port below - perfect for your Insta feed.Next, we'll drop you right into the festival's heart, where you'll have free time to explore and soak up the buzzing atmosphere of the fair. Stroll through vibrant streets, soak up the buzzing fair, and let the flamenco rhythms sweep you off your feet. Don't miss out on tasting traditional tapas, sip a refreshing ‘rebujito,' and embrace the fiesta vibes. The Feria de Málaga is a celebration packed with culture, tradition, and fun. This tour gives you the full Málaga experience, blending its history with the thrill of one of the most exciting events in the calendar. So reserve your spot today and experience the Feria de Málaga with us.

Costa del Sol - 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.

Málaga - Granada day trip with pickup from Malaga and the Costa del Sol

Book a Granada day trip with pickup from Malaga and the Costa del Sol and discover the city during a 5-hour stay.

Costa del Sol - Gibraltar Day Trip with Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

A fusion of the familiar and the exotic, Gibraltar is a must-visit. The fun kicks off with a boat trip in the bay to look out for dolphins. Three species – bottlenose, common and striped – are known to live in these waters. Then, back on dry land, we'll head into the town centre, where many British high street chains have outlets, for a mooch around its duty-free shops.First up, we'll cruise out into the Bay of Gibraltar, where dophins are frequently found. Look out for them leaping alongside the boat, and with luck you'll get to watch them frolicking in their natural habitat. After the boat trip, enjoy some free time to explore the streets of Gibraltar - the famous British outpost - where the pedestrianized area offers a shopper's paradise with a wide array of duty-free stores. Indulge in great bargains on electronics, audio visual equipment, perfumes, alcohol, and fashion.

Costa del Sol - Gibraltar day trip with dolphin-watching boat tour and Rock visit

An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes, the Rock and Main Street. And to top it off, you'll set sail around the Bay of Gibraltar for the chance to spot dolphins along the coast. Rosa, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Gibraltar's monkeys are the most accommodating wildlife around. Unlike dolphins, you don't have to search for them – they come looking for you, especially if you're holding food.'The fun kicks off with a boat trip in the bay to look out for dolphins. Three species – bottlenose, common and striped – are known to frolic in these waters. Then, back on dry land, head for a guided minibus tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, which juts 426 metres above the Mediterranean. You'll stop at Europa Point, where there are many famous monuments, a mosque and a historic Christian shrine. Plus, you'll also visit the Rock's recently renovated St Michael's Cave, which now hosts an auditorium.At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. There are about 300 monkeys on the Rock. A local legend says that if the monkeys disappear, Gibraltar will stop being British. Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it. Head to Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, for a mooch around its duty-free shops.

Costa del Sol - Gibraltar day trip with St Michael’s Cave and tour of the Rock

An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes of the Rock, St Michael's Caves and the Main Street. Rosa, one of our local guides, says: ‘Gibraltar is one of the most unexpected culture shocks I've ever encountered. It feels like my native Andalusia, but everything looks British. Wandering around, listening to the locals chat in their cute dialect is always a joy.'The fun kicks off on a high with a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar. Towering 426 metres above the Med, its steep slopes look daunting – but you'll be discovering it from the comfort of a minibus. The first stop is packed-with-monuments Europa Point, a popular spot for taking snaps. At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. On a clear day, you can see all the way across to Africa. Next up is St Michael's Cave. Once home to Neanderthals and used as a war hospital during World War II, they're now an atmospheric concert hall.Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it, whether it's the more obvious red phone and post boxes or the more succinct ones such as arched Georgian door frames. Tuck into a pie or maybe some fish and chips for lunch, before some retail therapy. Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, is famed for its duty-free shops.

Costa del Sol - Catamaran cruise in Málaga

Sun, sea and sightseeing – this catamaran cruise covers all the bases for a fun few hours at sea. Cast off at midday and relax on deck as you glide along the Costa del Sol. Then, sit down for a light lunch served up by the crew alongside a refreshing glass of sangria or beer. To top it off, once we're back on dry land, you'll have some free time to explore, too.Laze on deck, soaking up the sea spray as you go. The sights that await you along the coast are something else – aquamarine seas lapping idyllic sandy beaches. Once anchored, it's time for a bite to eat on board, washed down with a complimentary drink.You'll then cruise back to the port for around an hour's free time before heading back. A perfect opportunity to grab some last-minute souvenirs of the day, or a drink before the return journey.

Costa del Sol - A Day Out at Aqualand

Endless fun for all ages is waiting for you at Aqualand Torremolinos. You'll be spoilt for choice when you see the exciting range of water attractions - water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash pads - and that's just for starters. With convenient hotel transfers and an escort to answer your questions, it's a stress-free day out for all the family.Adrenaline-seekers prepare for high-speed water slides such as the Kamikaze and the Black Hole, which are sure to get your pulse racing. Fun is the name of the game with the multi-piste racing slides where you can whizz down side-by-side to see who splashes into the landing pool first. The crazy cones are another popular slide which will spin you into a whirlpool of fun. When it's time to slow down, try floating down the Congo River or unwinding in the Jacuzzi. For the little ones, there are shallow pools and splash pads a-plenty. Aqualand also has a bunch of great dining options for fast food, snacks, and ice cream when you want to refuel.

Costa del Sol - Gibraltar Rock Tour from Nerja Area

From red post boxes to custodian helmets, just about every icon of British culture can be found in Gibraltar. It's like the UK under the sun. But there's one thing they have to themselves, the troops of Barbary apes that roam the Upper Rock. Meet these cheeky monkeys on a Rock tour and enjoy free time to browse the duty-free shops in the old town.

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.

Costa del Sol - Fuengirola Zoo and shopping morning tour

This fun family morning has the whole clan covered. Visit the biggest coastal market in Fuengirola to shop for souvenirs, get some gifts or grab bargain or two and then head to Bioparc – an award-winning zoological centre where you can come face to face with cheeky chimps, tigers, lemurs and more.