Embark on an unforgettable 8-day self-drive tour, beginning and ending in the sun-soaked Costa del Sol. This journey takes you through Spain and Portugal, blending historic cities, scenic landscapes, and captivating culture. Start with the historic mountain town of Ronda, then head to Seville to experience its rich Andalusian culture and iconic landmarks. Crossing into Portugal, visit the UNESCO-listed town of Évora before exploring Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods and historic sites. On your return to Spain, stop in Huelva to see replicas of Columbus’s caravels in La Rábida, then finish your journey back on the sunny Costa del Sol.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Ronda: Known for its dramatic El Tajo gorge and charming old town, Ronda is steeped in history, with stunning Moorish architecture and the famed Plaza de Toros bullring.
Seville: Explore the elegant capital of Andalusia, visiting the world-famous Plaza de España, the former royal palace and cathedral as well as strolling through the old Jewish quarter.
Evora: Stroll the charming streets lined with Roman ruins, medieval walls, and the Gothic Évora Cathedral. Discover the town’s eclectic architecture, influenced by Roman, Moorish, and Christian settlers.
Lisbon: Portugal’s capital city is an adventure in itself, offering cultural gems such as fado, culinary treats like pasteis de Belem, and romantic city views.
Day 1: ARRIVAL MÁLAGA
Arrive at Malaga Airport and pick up your hired car. Drive to your hotel for check-in and first impressions of the area. The Costa del Sol, a jewel of Spain's Andalusian coast, is famous for its golden beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, and laid-back charm. Beyond its beaches, the region reveals a rich cultural tapestry, with ancient fortresses, traditional markets, and picturesque pueblos blancos (white villages) nestled in the hills.
Overnight in Costa del Sol.
Day 2: COSTA DEL SOL – RONDA – SEVILLE (227km – 3hrs)
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before setting out for Ronda, a picturesque town nestled high in the Serranía de Ronda mountains at 698 meters above sea level. Known for its aristocratic history, Ronda is one of Spain’s most storied and scenic towns, famed as a legendary hideaway for bandits and smugglers. The dramatic El Tajo gorge, plunging 100 meters, cleaves the town into two distinct halves. On one side lies "La Ciudad," the old Moorish quarter, with its winding streets and alleys framed by charming whitewashed houses adorned with wrought-iron balconies. On the other side is "El Mercadillo," the newer section established after the Christian Reconquest. Here, you’ll find notable attractions like the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest and most famous bullrings. After exploring Ronda’s highlights, continue to Seville and check in to your hotel.
Overnight in Seville.
Day 3: SEVILLE
Enjoy breakfast at hotel and visit some of the capital’s top attractions such as the Royal Alcazar palace and the cathedral – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites – as well as Santa Cruz, its most picturesque inner city neighbourhood. The Royal Alcazar traces its origins to the 10th century when it became the palace of a Moorish caliph. Over the centuries, it has been expanded with a series of stunning halls, pavilions, patios, and gardens in a variety of styles from Moorish and Mudejar to Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque. The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, who’s glorious Giralda belfry is Seville’s most iconic symbol. The cathedral began life as a mosque in the 12th century and has since grown to become the third-largest church in the world. Explore secluded Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter and the most traditional neighbourhood in the old town today. It is a warren of whitewashed lanes, alleys, archways, and patios, each with a historical tale to tell.
Overnight in Seville.
Day 4: SEVILLE – EVORA – LISBON (460km – 4.5hrs)
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off toward Lisbon, traveling through the historic city of Évora. This ancient citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands proudly over the surrounding countryside, boasting centuries of monumental history—from the Roman Age through to the present day. Évora has long been a cultural and commercial crossroads, with architecture reflecting its diverse past under Roman, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian rule. Stroll through Évora’s atmospheric streets, taking in a stunning tapestry of styles and structures that reveal the city’s layered history. After exploring these remarkable sites, continue your journey to Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
Overnight in Lisbon.
Day 5: LISBON
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, then set off to explore Alfama, Lisbon’s enchanting old quarter. With its labyrinthine streets and steep, winding stairways, Alfama exudes an irresistible charm, capturing the essence of Lisbon’s history and spirit. Lisbon, famously spread over seven hills, is beautifully positioned by the "Sea of Straw"—the immense Tagus estuary, which glows golden at sunset as the city’s houses appear to cascade gently from the hills to the sea. Next, visit the historic Belém district, where the iconic Belém Tower stands watch over the Tagus River, and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries, unveiled in 1960 to honor the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death. Don’t miss the Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983, known for its stunning church and intricate Manueline designs. In the evening, immerse yourself in the soul of Lisbon with a traditional Fado show, capturing the city’s melancholy beauty through music and song.
Overnight in Lisbon.
Day 6: LISBON – ALBUFEIRA – HUELVA (404km – 4hrs)
After breakfast journey back into Spain along the scenic coastline, heading towards Huelva with a stop in Albufeira. En route, pause at La Rábida, where you can explore the historic Dock of the Caravels. Here, you’ll find remarkable replicas of the three caravels that carried Christopher Columbus on his voyage to the New World. Step aboard these ships to get a feel for the spirit of exploration, then visit the nearby Monastery of La Rábida, where Columbus prepared for his journey. Continue onward to Huelva, where you’ll check in to your hotel and unwind for the evening.
Overnight in Huelva.
Day 7: HUELVA – COSTA DEL SOL (310km – 3.5hrs)
Before heading back to Costa del Sol explore Huelva with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stroll through the Plaza de las Monjas, the city’s main square, and admire the striking Cathedral of La Merced. You can visit Marismas del Odiel, a protected wetland area home to diverse bird species, including flamingos.
Overnight in Costa del Sol.
Day 8: DEPARTURE COSTA DEL SOL
Begin your last day in Costa Del Sol with a tasty breakfast. Then, at the agreed time, head towards the airport to return the vehicle.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain though a warm jumper and jacket are advisable in the cooler months. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
