5 Destinations You Have To Visit In Andalusia, Spain + local recipes
2021-10-28
There are 17 autonomous regions across Spain, each offering its own unique cities, landscapes, traditions, food and culture.
The region of Andalusia is located in the southernmost part of Spain, and is home to some of the most well known locations in Spain. It is also the most populous region in Spain.
Andalusia spans from the countryside to cities to the sea, and is also home to the olive groves of La Española Olive Oil. The Mediterranean climate here makes it not just the perfect place to produce the best olive oil, but to visit as a tourist as well.
We have shortlisted five of the must-visit locations in Andalusia, why you need to add them to your bucket list and what food they are famous for - recipes included! Think of it as a mini travel guide to Andalusia from those in the know.
Seville (Sevilla)
Seville is one of the most famous destinations in Spain, and a jewel in the crown of the region of Andalusia. In fact, this stunning Spanish city is the official capital of the region.
What Seville is known for: Seville is renowned for its traditional flamenco dancing and its unique Moorish architecture that makes it such a standout city. When visiting Seville, you can’t miss a trip to the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Plaza de España and the Seville Cathedral. You won’t have seen historic buildings like this anywhere in the world, and that’s what makes Seville so special.
The best food from Seville: Seville is renowned for its tapas, with the city home to around 3000 tapas bars. A typical dish from Seville is the classic “tapa” chickpeas and spinach. We have adapted this recipe into a popular chickpea soup on our website that our readers love. Find the recipe here.
Granada
An ancient city nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains (of Spain - not the USA!), Granada is an awe-inspiring destination full of Moorish architecture that will take your breath away. Frank Sinatra was right when he sang, “Granada, I’m falling under your spell, and if you could speak, what a fascinating tale you would tell.”
What to see in Granada: First and foremost, Granada is famous across the world for Alhambra, the hilltop Islamic fortress. It is the most visited landmark in Spain and home to many of its own sights you will want to see. While you’re in Granada, also make time to take in the Granada Cathedral, the Sierra Nevada National Park, the Arab Baths and the colourful Alcaicería Markets.
Traditional food from Granada: Grenadian food is varied, inspired and quintessentially fresh. The refreshing salad Remojón Granadino is traditionally Grenadian. Here is a recipe that is in English.
Cadiz (Cádiz)
Home to the Spanish Navy, Cadiz is a coastal Andalusian port city with lengthy beaches, a mild climate, endless natural wonders and a whole lot to discover. It should be included on any Spanish summer road trip.
How to spend your time in Cadiz: Cadiz is not short on things to do and see. Start out with visiting the Catedral de Cádiz, the Mercado Central de Abastos (Spain’s oldest covered market), explore the local national parks and the 76 local beaches, or visit in February for one of Europe’s biggest carnivals.
Traditional food from Cadiz: Thanks to its prime location on the sea, cuisine from Cadiz is rich in fresh seafood. Tortilla de camarones are Spanish shrimp fritters that are unique to Cadiz. Here is a recipe for tortilla de camarones using their Aussie counterpart, prawns.
Malaga (Málaga)
One of Spain’s most popular coastal destinations, Malaga is located on the gorgeous Costa Del Sol, and is a bustling tourist centre, most famous for being the birthplace of one of the most famous Spaniards ever to live - Pablo Picasso.
How to while away a day in Malaga: The Picasso Museum is one of the primary landmarks in Malaga, and is well worth a visit. Malaga is also home to the Alcazaba, a still-standing Moorish palace that overlooks the sea. As always, the Cathedral in Malaga should be on your list, as should the Malaga Old Town and of course, a chance to unwind on the city’s golden urban beaches.
Eat this for a taste of Malaga: Malaga’s cuisine is varied, and the city offers everything from cosy tapas bars to traditional bakeries to vendors selling fresh fish straight from the sea. Ajoblanco is one of the typical dishes of the region, and is similar to gazpacho but is a cold soup made with garlic and almonds instead of tomato. Here is a good recipe for Ajoblanco from Taste Australia.
Cordoba (Córdoba)
The final Andalusian location on our list is Cordoba, an ancient city that like many in the region, was an important Islamic centre - which its architectural landmarks demonstrate. Located at the foot of the Morena Mountains, the riverside city is bursting with surprises ready to be discovered.
A quick Cordoba itinerary: The most famous landmark in Cordoba is arguably the jaw dropping Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, followed closely by the Alcazar, one of the city’s remaining ancient palaces which feels like you have stepped back in time. Wander through the centre of Cordoba, and discover the historic Jewish Quarter, public squares, ancient ruins and many fascinating museums.
Food in Cordoba you can’t miss: Cordoban food is unique, and you won’t find cuisine just like it anywhere in the world. Oxtail stew is one such Cordoban dish, as is Salmorejo. Salmorejo is a cold soup made with kitchen essentials that you must try yourself this summer. Our website has a classic Salmorejo with jamon iberico recipe you’ll love.
Have you tried any of these Andalusian dishes, either in Spain or in Australia?
Olive oil is a central component of any Spanish recipe, and La Española is Spain’s oldest and most trusted olive oil, dating back to 1840. Our olive oils are shipped fresh from the Spanish grove to the Aussie table. Our range is available at Coles across Australia, both in-store and online.
