Hola and welcome to Andalusia. This sprawling region in southern Spain is filled with hills, rivers, and farmland… oh, and beaches! Known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, beautiful landscapes and warm climate, we can’t think of a better place for a road trip. Once you travel through Spain by campervan, you won’t dream of doing it any other way. In this 6-day itinerary, we combine history, natural beauty, architecture and, of course, delicious local cuisine.
Getting there
This road trip starts in the delightful city of Málaga, right in the south of Spain. If you’d like to bring your own motorhome, you’ll need to factor in this lengthy journey.
Option A: Channel Tunnel (Eurotunnel): Board at Folkestone and arrive in Calais, France. The tunnel crossing takes around 35 minutes. This is a quick and flexible option, ideal for motorhomes.
Option B: Ferry: Take a ferry from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk. Ferries take about 90 minutes and allow you to relax onboard.
Then follow major highways (A16 and A10) through France. You’ll drive through cities like Rouen, Tours, and Bordeaux on your way to the Spanish border. From the French border, continue south through the Basque region or via Biarritz and San Sebastián, then follow signs towards Madrid (A-1 and AP-1) and eventually head towards Málaga.
Alternatively, you can fly to a nearby airport and hire a motorhome in Spain.
Keep in mind
You’ll be exploring the hottest part of Spain, so we recommend visiting outside of the peak of summer. This will also ensure fewer crowds and lower prices throughout your trip. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear appropriate sun protection for your trip. Hikes should be taken early in the morning or late in the afternoon – although not so late that you’re stranded in the dark!
As for driving in Spain, don’t forget that they drive on the right! There are also many toll roads in Spain. To avoid them and take a more scenic route, use the specific setting on your GPS or Google Maps. If you’re bringing your own motorhome, don’t forget to purchase a GB sticker for your car.
Although road signs across Europe are generally consistent, a few might seem confusing. Fortunately, you can refer to a comprehensive guide to Spanish road signs or a simplified guide covering only Spain-specific signs.
Day 1 - Málaga
Our Andalusia road trip starts in what might just be the hottest part of Spain: Málaga. This vibrant city is renowned as the gateway to Spain’s Costa del Sol. It’s also the birthplace of famous painter, Picasso, and this artistic vein runs deep throughout the city. It’s a lively destination throughout the year with something for everyone, from its cobbled Old Town to its palm-fringed plazas. There is no better place to start your holiday than Málaga, preferably with a glass of Sangria in your hand and an array of tapas in front of you.
Things to do:
Spend some time relaxing on La Malagueta Beach, a sandy beach just a short walk from the city centre. Stroll down the seaside promenade lined with palm trees, chiringuitos (beach bars), and plenty of spots to enjoy local seafood, especially the famous espeto (grilled sardines on skewers).
As mentioned, Málaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and the Museo Picasso Málaga offers a fantastic collection of his work. The museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century palace, showcasing over 200 pieces that provide insight into the artist's early years and creative evolution.
Last but not least, explore the Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish fortress with lush gardens, stunning courtyards, and spectacular views of Málaga and the Mediterranean. You can follow this with a hike up to the Gibralfaro Castle, an ancient hilltop fortress with panoramic views of the city and port.
Staying at: Camping Torremolinos
Just 6 miles from Málaga in Torremolinos, this site provides easy access to Los Alamos Beach and public transport, along with family-friendly amenities like showers, toilets, and an outdoor swimming pool. You’ll find a bus stop right outside Camping Torremolinos, so you can leave your motorhome pitched while you explore the local area. It’s also within walking distance of a beach, so an early morning swim is always a possibility (but we won’t judge you for having a lie-in!).
C. Loma del Paraiso, 2, 29620 Torremolinos, Málaga, Spain
36.646522, -4.488890
Day 2 - Málaga to Ronda
You could easily spend another day (or three) in Málaga, but we’ve got a lot to fit into this road trip itinerary. So it’s time to pack up your campervan and head towards the mountains to reach Ronda, a drive of about one and a half hours. This is another city with a rich cultural heritage, as American artists Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles spent many summers in Ronda. So you can see the locations that inspired the books you used to “read” in English lessons! Both authors specifically wrote about Ronda's beauty and famous bullfighting traditions.
Things to do:
Visit Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, dating back to the 18th century. It includes a museum that delves into the history of Spanish bullfighting and Ronda’s role in the tradition. Even if bullfighting isn’t for you, the architecture and historical exhibits are worth visiting.
Simply stroll through La Ciudad, Ronda’s charming old town, filled with narrow, cobbled streets, traditional Andalusian houses, and small squares. Visit landmarks like the Mondragón Palace for its Moorish design and gardens, as well as Santa María la Mayor Church.
The Puente Nuevo is Ronda’s iconic stone bridge spanning the dramatic El Tajo Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the canyon below and surrounding countryside. For the best views, you can walk down a path called Camino de los Molinos or visit Mirador de Aldehuela for the best photo opportunities — ideal for a holiday-themed Instagram post!
Staying at: Camping El Sur
Camping El Sur is a charming campsite located just a short drive from Ronda, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. It features a range of amenities, including a pool, an on-site restaurant, and well-maintained facilities. You won’t find a more comfortable spot from which to explore the local area!
Carretera Ronda-Algeciras, Km 1.5, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain
36.720800, -5.172344
Day 3 - Ronda to Grazalema and Setenil de las Bodegas
Two stops today, as we’ve got a lot to see on this South Spain road trip itinerary. So make sure to enjoy some coffee and breakfast before you head out for this packed day. First, drive to Grazalema, which should take about forty-five minutes. This beautiful village is located in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. You can park your campervan here and take a scenic hike to enjoy the mountain views. Return to the village and treat yourself to a nice drink or snack before heading out again.
Thirty minutes further, you’ll find Setenil de las Bodegas, a unique village built into rock overhangs. We guarantee you’ve never seen anything like this before. Spend the afternoon wandering through the cave-like streets and enjoy lunch in a rock-covered restaurant.
Staying at: Camping El Nogalejo
A small and affordable site, Camping El Nogalejo is only 1.5km from the charming village of Setenil de las Bodegas. This campsite has 17 pitches with electric hookups and water. There’s a small shop onsite where you can get some local delicacies for breakfast, or perhaps something for your nightly cravings.
Carr. Setenil Alcala, 11692 Setenil de las Bodegas, Cádiz, Spain
36.869661, -5.166858
Day 4 - Ronda to Seville
A slightly longer drive today, but the destination will definitely be worth the journey. Drive an hour and a half to Seville, Andalusia’s capital and a staple of any road trip in the region. Seville is known for countless things, such as its beautiful architecture, monuments, flamenco, and tapas scene. Many recommend Seville over popular Spanish destinations like Barcelona, Madrid or Valencia. While we don’t want to ruffle up any feathers by making such a bold claim, we will say that Seville looks like a city made of art, and it’s perfect for slow, unhurried exploration.
Things to do:
The Seville Cathedral is one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals and is home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb. Don’t miss climbing the Giralda Tower (the cathedral's former minaret) for panoramic views of Seville. We particularly love the architecture, stained glass windows, and grand altarpiece.
Explore the Real Alcázar of Seville. This UNESCO-listed palace complex, originally built by Moorish rulers, is a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture. Wander through its intricately decorated halls, lush gardens, and courtyards, including the stunning Patio de las Doncellas and Baños de Doña María de Padilla. It’s particularly fascinating for its blend of Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
Lastly, spend the afternoon walking through the Plaza de España, located in María Luisa Park. This architectural marvel features colourful tiled alcoves representing each Spanish province, as well as fountains and a semicircular canal where you can take a boat ride. You can follow this with a trip to the park for a doze in the sunshine!
Staying at: Área de Autocaravanas Sevilla
You’ll find no better campsite for exploring Sevilla, as it is truly rare to find a motorhome site so centrally located. At Área de Autocaravanas Sevilla, you’ll be situated right in the city centre, so you’ll barely spend time at the site anyway. It provides essential amenities such as electricity, water refill, waste disposal, and 24-hour security, giving you peace of mind while you dive into the delights of Sevilla. It’s nothing too special, but it provides a great location to sleep or relax while exploring the city.
Av. Maestranza Aérea, S/N, 41011 Sevilla, Spain
37.361972, -5.994360
Day 5 - Seville to Córdoba
We hope you’ve had your fill of charming Seville, and if not, feel free to add another day to your trip. However, we must warn you that we still have two excellent destinations left on our South Spain road trip itinerary.
Today’s drive will take about an hour and a half and lead you to Córdoba, a city made fascinating by its rare blend of Roman, Muslim, and Christian influences. The city is known for its textile manufacturers, traditional medieval handicrafts, and its production of gold and silver ornaments and products in copper, bronze, and aluminium — so prepare to do some damage to your bank account!
Things to do:
Visit Córdoba’s most famous landmark, the Mezquita-Catedral. It is known for its unique blend of Islamic and Christian architecture. Wander through the massive prayer hall, with its iconic red-and-white striped arches and the Baroque-style cathedral within it.
Stroll through La Judería, Córdoba's historic Jewish Quarter, with its narrow cobblestone streets, charming whitewashed houses, and hidden courtyards filled with flowers. Don’t miss the Córdoba Synagogue, one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Spain, as well as Calleja de las Flores, one of the most famous streets in all of Andalusia.
The Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs is a historic fortress and palace with gorgeous gardens, fountains, and ancient mosaics. Walk through its lush gardens, take in views from the tower, and explore its halls, where Ferdinand and Isabella once met with Christopher Columbus before his journey to the New World.
Staying at: Camping Los Villares Sierra de Córdoba
Nestled within the Sierra de Córdoba natural park, Camping Los Villares Sierra de Córdoba is a peaceful campsite with forest surroundings. It’s about ten kilometres from Córdoba, but it provides tranquillity you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. This campsite is particularly popular with hikers, as it is surrounded by idyllic hiking trails and picnic areas.
Los Villares Park, CO-3408 Km 5,5, 14029 Córdoba, Spain
37.960737, -4.812056
Day 6 - Córdoba to Granada
The final stop on our Andalusia campervan road trip! We couldn’t end this itinerary without a day in Granada, so we’re allowing it to be the grand finale of our route. The drive should take about two and a half hours, so you might want to set out early to make the most of your time in Granada.
Located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is known for grand examples of medieval architecture dating to the Moorish occupation, especially the Alhambra. It’s a city of fine architecture, and across the sprawling streets, you’ll find Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical churches, convents, monasteries, hospitals, palaces, and mansions. Plenty to see and very little time, so let’s dive right in!
Things to do:
We briefly mentioned the magnificent Alhambra, but given that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it deserves more attention. This sprawling palace complex includes the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife Gardens, and Alcazaba Fortress. The intricate Moorish architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views of Granada make it a must-see.
Explore the Albaicín Neighborhood. In Granada’s old Moorish quarter, you’ll find winding, narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra. You’ll find the best views at Mirador de San Nicolás, where you can get great photos of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background — this is especially beautiful at sunset!
Let’s finish off this itinerary with a celebration! Granada is famous for its free tapas culture: order a drink at a local bar, and you’ll receive a free plate of tapas. Check out popular tapas bars around Plaza Nueva or Calle Elvira to sample a variety of local flavours, from classic Spanish dishes to regional specialities.
Staying at: Camping Reina Isabel
And for your final night, you’ll be pitching at Camping Reina Isabel. Three kilometres from Granada, this site is conveniently located as well as a peaceful oasis. This family-friendly site offers amenities like a pool, a restaurant, and spacious pitches for motorhomes, surrounded by beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
C. Laurel de la Reina, 15, 18140 La Zubia, Granada, Spain
37.124629, -3.586202
Fitting the highlights of this region into a six-day Andalusia road trip is no easy feat, but we’ve managed to do precisely that. There is definitely more to explore in the hottest and most beautiful part of Spain, but this itinerary guides you through the must-see destinations. If you have more time, consider visiting the Costa del Sol, Cádiz, or the nature trails in the Sierra Nevada.
Check out our motorhomes and campervans available for hire in Spain and set off on your Andalusian road trip adventure.
