Ultimate Andalusia Travel Itinerary: Must-See Spots & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Recommended Itinerary:
Perfect for first-time visitors and busy professionals, the Andalusian golden triangle of Seville, Granada, and Cordoba is a must-see. Among these, Seville stands out as a vibrant and diverse city with an abundance of attractions and activities. Depending on your schedule, you might want to spend 2 to 4 days in Seville, 1 to 2 days in Granada, and 1 to 2 days in Cordoba.

Additionally, the British overseas territory of Gibraltar is a fascinating destination that can be visited visa-free with a multiple-entry Schengen visa. History buffs and military enthusiasts will find it particularly captivating.

Itinerary to Avoid (Red Flags):
While this region is dotted with charming small towns, often recommended on platforms like Xiaohongshu, many travelers, constrained by time, opt to skip places like Cordoba and Gibraltar in favor of these smaller destinations. I strongly advise first-time visitors to Andalusia to focus on the three cities of the golden triangle if time is limited.

These small towns, while picturesque, offer scenery similar to ancient towns in southern China and may feel somewhat repetitive. Moreover, cities like Cordoba and Granada already provide a rich, small-town charm. If you have extra time beyond the three main cities, besides Gibraltar, consider adding the town of Ronda.

Places such as Marbella, Nerja, and Mijas are generally unnecessary. There are also numerous recommendations on Xiaohongshu for the supposedly luxurious and glamorous Puerto Banus, which, in my opinion, is overhyped and on the brink of decline (red flag). Don’t let your precious vacation time go to waste.