Andalusia bucket list - Setenil de las Bodegas Instagram spots - best photo places of the most beautiful and unique spots in the Andalusian village
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31 most iconic Instagram photo spots in Andalusia, Spain

When visiting a new destination, everyone is looking for those iconic shots of the most impressive and beautiful places. Here are the most iconic Instagram photo spots you should be looking for in Andalusia, the South of Spain!

We spent more than two months driving around Andalusia and exploring everything this historic and unique region had to offer! From the most glamorous palaces to the most rustic cave houses – we visited it all! So let’s dive in!

In this blog post, you will find all the best Instagram photo spots in Andalusia with descriptions, photos, and locations where they can be found on Google Maps. I’m sure I have covered pretty much everything you might be looking for! Happy exploring!

Read more » 40 ultimate best places to visit in Andalusia, Spain

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TABLE OF CONTENTS »

1. Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda

Best photo spots of Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda, Spain

Puente Nuevo bridge is the essence of Ronda and it sits on the top amongst the best Instagram spots in Ronda and Andalusia. It is one of the most iconic places in the South of Spain and likely the main reason people travel here from all over the world!

The bridge stretches over a 100-meter-deep gorge – El Tajo – connecting two parts of Ronda town. Ronda was my favorite town in Andalusia, thus I had to give the privilege of being the first best Instagram spot in Andalusia to this majestic bridge!

There are multiple viewpoints you can go to get great photos of the Puente Nuevo bridge and the gorge, the river, and the waterfall. However, the Arco del Cristo viewpoint was my favorite of all the best Puente Nuevo bridge photo spots!

From this viewpoint, you can get the best photo of the famous bridge because the bridge and the waterfall are both very well visible. You can easily take a photo of yourself standing in the shot without covering the beautiful view!

Want to walk there? There is a paved pathway with steps leading downhill from the town center (it starts here!) to the viewpoints of Ronda bridge and it is quite easy to get there. Just be careful around the edges of the cliff!

Want to drive there? If you drive a car, I don’t recommend driving to the very bottom of the gorge as you will have to climb a considerable distance uphill to get the best view! It is best to park your car midway (somewhere here) and then walk to the viewpoint.

Location: Arco del Cristo viewpoint

2. Baños Árabes of Ronda

Hidden gems and unique things to see in Ronda, Spain

Such Arab Baths like these were built during the Islamic period in Spain and are some of the most unique Instagram spots in Andalusia! They are part of a unique historic heritage and today serve as a reminder of the complicated history Andalusia has had.

Although you will see such baths in many places around Andalusia, I found these in Ronda to be the best ones in terms of explaining how everything worked, how it looked, and what happened in each part of the site.

Baños Árabes or Arab baths in Ronda is a unique archeological site showcasing a 13th-century bathhouse. Those horseshoe-shaped brick arches and star-shaped holes in the rounded ceiling make this one of the most beautiful Instagram spots in Ronda.

Once you enter the site, you will be instructed to go inside one of the rooms in the Arab Baths to watch a 5 to 10-minute video. The video explains everything about the Arab Baths with illustrations and photos. Definitely recommend!

Location: Baños Árabes of Ronda

3. Calle Cuevas de la Sombra in Setenil de las Bodegas cave village

Setenil de las Bodegas Instagram spots - best photo places of the most beautiful and unique spots in the Andalusian village

It would be hard to find a more unique place than Setenil de las Bodegas village! The most iconic thing about the village is that people here still live in cave houses and work at shops and cafés built under rocks.

The most iconic place in Setenil de las Bodegas village is Calle Cuevas de la Sombra (Street of Shadow caves). It is the only street in the village completely covered by rocks and this is where you will get one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Andalusia!

There is only a small part of the street that goes under the rock (like 100 meters or so), so I really recommend walking there and back to see this place from both sides of the street. Check out other Instagram photo spots in Setenil de las Bodegas village!

It is truly one of the best places to visit in Andalusia! There are even some cafés under the rock, so stop by and have lunch like a proper caveman or cavewoman! And visiting a shop in a cave is also among the best things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas!

Location: Calle Cuevas de la Sombra

4. The majestic Royal Alcázar of Seville

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Patio de Doncellas

Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the most beautiful palaces in Andalusia and the crown jewel of Seville. It was built as a house for kings and still is the house of kings – the upper floors of Alcázar still host the royal family when they visit the city of Seville.

Royal Alcázar of Seville is a complex that consists of palaces, patios, courtyards, staterooms, unique bathing rooms, and massive gardens with pathways, ponds, fountains, trees and flowers, benches, pavilions, and even a maze.

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Patio de Doncellas
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Gardens of the Royal Alcázar

Royal Alcázar of Seville is a must-visit place for any visitor to Seville and is definitely one of the most beautiful Instagram spots in Andalusia! It is a prime example of the Mudéjar architectural style in Spain!

Especially such places as Patio de Doncellas, which is the main courtyard in the Alcázar, and Salón de Embajadores feature outstanding ornaments and decors in Mudéjar style. Isn’t it stunning?

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Gardens of the Royal Alcázar
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Baños de Doña María de Padilla

Royal Alcázar of Seville is full of some of the best Instagram photo spots in Seville. The most famous ones you will find in the main palace courtyard – Patio de Doncellas. It features a beautiful long reflective pool and Mudéjar style archways all around it.

Then definitely take a look at Baños de Doña María de Padilla bathing house with a pool in an arch-shaped room in the basement. Those enlightened arches and the reflection in the water look pretty cool!

And don’t forget to enjoy the gardens with palm trees and decorative trees along the pathways. I recommend coming to Royal Alcázar of Seville for the earliest time in the morning and buying tickets online before!

Location: Royal Alcázar of Seville

5. Plaza de España square in Seville

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain

Although the Royal Alcazar of Seville palace is incredibly majestic and stunning, actually my favorite place in Seville is the well-known Plaza de España square with its pointed towers, arches, colorful tiles, and bridges!

Plaza de España is a landmark square and one of the most beautiful places in Seville! And you can get some of the most iconic Instagram spots in Andalusia right here! The best thing about it is that you can visit Plaza de España square for free!

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain

Plaza de España square was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition that took place in Seville. The square is shaped in a huge half-circle with two massive towers, a water feature and bridges over it, and a long walkway lined with arches.

The square has beautiful architecture and simply stunning ornaments and decorative elements. It features scenic bridges with lanterns, archways, and beautiful ornaments decorated with colorful tiles.

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain

If you are looking for a photo without the crowds I suggest coming here in the morning – at least at 9 AM. We arrived a bit after 8 AM and it was empty, but it does get very crowded during the day.

There are multiple unique and creative Instagram spots around the Plaza de España square in Seville. I have included all the exact photo locations in my blog post about the best Instagram spots in Seville! Go check it out to find the exact coordinates!

Location: Plaza de España

6. Setas de Sevilla – Mushrooms of Seville

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain

Setas de Sevilla is an architectural masterpiece in the heart of Seville city. It is a massive wooden structure in the shape of mushrooms. If you are looking for some of the most unique Instagram spots in Andalusia, this is a pretty cool spot!

Initially, the project was called the Metropol Parasol, but local citizens started to call them ‘setas’ or ‘mushrooms’ so the name was officially changed. And I agree with the citizens – these do look like mushrooms!

Setas de Sevilla was built in 2011 as the largest wooden structure in the world. You can either admire it from the side or pay 15 EUR to climb up on top to a viewing platform. From the viewing platform, you will get unmatched views over Seville city!

Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain
Best Instagram spots in Seville, Spain

Although we did not get to climb on the roof platform of Setas de Sevilla, we definitely were amazed by them while standing at the bottom. They did an incredible job when building this structure!

This is one of the most unique Instagram spots in Seville for sure and definitely one of the most iconic places in the city. You can’t leave Seville without visiting the iconic Setas de Sevilla!

Location: Setas de Sevilla

7. Striking La Giralda tower from Patio de Banderas in Seville

Hidden gems and unique things to do in Seville, Spain

La Giralda is the name of one of the main symbols of Seville – the bell tower of the Cathedral of Seville. It was built in the 12th century as a minaret for a mosque during the Islamic period in Andalusia.

Patio de Banderas is a historic square in the heart of Seville Old Town. Despite the central location, there is nothing special about the simple tree-lined square with a few lanterns. Unless you know where to look and pay attention when walking around.

This square is also the exit point of the famous Royal Alcázar of Seville. So most people are just busy thinking about the Alcázar or the next tourist attraction and therefore miss the secrets this unimpressive square hides inside.

Hidden gems and unique things to do in Seville, Spain
Hidden gems and unique things to do in Seville, Spain

There are overall three portals and doors connected to the square in a unique way. If you look through the portals and doors you can see the famous Catedral de Sevilla and La Giralda tower next to it. Makes for a fantastic Instagram photo spot in Seville!

If you arrive early in the morning (before 9 AM) all of these doorways and portals will be available for a photo. However, during the day there will be a sea of people walking through two of these doors as they serve as an exit point from the famous Alcázar.

However, the first photo taken from a portal is located in the far corner of the square. It is a secret pathway between the square and a street that not many people know about. If you happen to be here later in the day, come here as there won’t be as many people!

Location: Patio de Banderas

8. Comares Palace in Alhambra, Granada

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

Alhambra is arguably the most famous tourist attraction in Granada, Andalusia, and possibly in Spain. The world-famous Alhambra is a massive medieval fortress sitting on top of a hill in Granada city.

Inside the citadel, there are multiple palaces and residences built for kings, expansive gardens, and other infrastructure made for Alhambra to be a self-contained city. Here you will find some of the most beautiful Instagram photo spots in Andalusia!

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city
Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

The Nasrid palaces – multiple royal palaces built by different Arab kings from the Nasrid dynasty – are the crown jewel of Alhambra. If you don’t visit the Nasrid palaces, then you haven’t seen Alhambra!

One of the most beautiful of the Nasrid palaces is the Comares Palace – one of the first palaces you will see during your visit. There is the famous Patio de los Arrayanes – an inner courtyard with a long rectangular reflective pool typical of Moorish architecture.

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city
Patio de los Arrayanes in Comares Palace in Alhambra

Back then the courtyard typically was a central space around which other rooms were organized. Somehow we got a beautiful peaceful moment inside the courtyard as we arrived 30 minutes before the opening and were the first in line to enter.

The Comares Palace was built for a king and it does live up to the expectations. From the beautiful arches, detailed carvings above the archways, and the peaceful fountain next to the pool. Makes it one of the most beautiful palaces in Andalusia!

Location: Comares Palace in Alhambra

9. Palace of the Lions in Alhambra, Granada

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

As you walk to the next palace in the Nasrid palace complex you will find yourself inside the Palace of the Lions – one of the most famous palaces in Islamic architecture in the world and, undoubtedly, one of the best Instagram spots in Andalusia.

Again the central element here is the courtyard – Patio de los Leones or the Courtyard of the Lions. There is a wide rectangular courtyard surrounded by a stunning forest of columns that have these ornately carved decorations and Arabic inscriptions.

In the middle of the courtyard, there is a magnificent marble fountain that is being held by twelve sculpted lions – thus the name of the palace. This whole setting is just breathtaking!

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city
Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

This was without a doubt my favorite place in Alhambra. The architecture and design are somewhat out of this world, especially the stalactite-like carvings in the ceiling of the vaults (known as muqarnas).

Definitely don’t forget to look up and pay attention to the ceilings when you are visiting the Palace of the Lions! I cannot even comprehend the work that has been put into creating this marvel!

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

However, my favorite spots were those column forests at each end of the Courtyard of the Lions. The ornate carvings are incredible and definitely make this one of the most beautiful palaces in Andalusia!

No wonder Alhambra was amongst the finalists at the New 7 Wonders of the World voting contest! If you ever go to Spain then this is definitely one of the top bucket list places to visit in Granada and in Andalusia!

Location: Patio de los Leones

10. Generalife palace in Alhambra, Granada

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

Generalife is the name of a palace complex that was a summer residence for the Nasrid dynasty kings. It has expansive gardens with fountains and lots of greenery.

The most beautiful part of the Generalife palace complex in Alhambra, Granada is the Patio de la Acequia courtyard that you will find right next to the palace. It is the most beautiful photo spot in this palace!

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city
Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

The Patio de la Acequia courtyard is a rectangular area with a long pool and multiple fountains and plants. There is a beautiful pathway along one side of the courtyard that has arch-shaped windows looking out to Granada city.

Granada, Spain - best things to do & most beautiful Instagram spots in the city

The palace is very well looked after and has many beautiful hidden corners including another courtyard, viewpoints, and halls all decorated with Moorish-style elements. Generalife is the oasis of Alhambra and I do hope you get to visit this palace!

Location: Generalife

11. Montefrío – the village with the most beautiful view!

Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Montefrío

Montefrío in Granada – one of the villages with the best view in the world! Did you know that National Geographic made a list of villages with the best view in the world and Montefrío village in Granada province in Andalusia was one of them?

Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Montefrío
Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Montefrío

There is a viewpoint named after National Geographic where you can see the exact view that has captured the world. The village is a true hidden gem in Andalusia with its Iglesia de la Encarnacion being the only completely round church in Spain!

Location: Montefrío village seen from National Geographic viewpoint

12. Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba

Cordoba, Spain - amazing Instagram spots in Cordoba
Cordoba, Spain - amazing Instagram spots in Cordoba

Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba is a landmark tourist attraction in Andalusia and is one of the main reasons people visit this city. It is a spectacular cathedral that was once a mosque when Córdoba was under Islamic rule.

When the Christian kings conquered the city it was redesigned into a cathedral. The building itself was expanded over the centuries and under different rulers so it is an important historic monument included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Cordoba, Spain - amazing Instagram spots in Cordoba

Although it is now a cathedral, for the most part, it still looks like a mosque. If you want to visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba you have to buy tickets in advance. You can do it online for a certain hour when you wish to come.

I recommend coming in the morning. The lines outside are massive, however, the building is massive too so there is a place for a lot of people. Although we came in the morning there were already about 200 people in line in front of us (but it moved fast).

This is one of the bucket list places to visit in Córdoba and one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Andalusia – the endless red-and-white striped archways is something you don’t get to see very often.

For a better picture, I recommend going to the corner that is as far away from the entrance as possible. Most tourists enter the building and start taking photos right away. Run to the remotest corner, take your photos, and then enjoy the architecture!

Location: Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba

13. The flowerful Patios de Córdoba

Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Martín de Roa 7
Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Martín de Roa 7

Córdoba is famous for its beautiful courtyards called ‘patios’. There is a whole festival in May where numerous courtyards compete for the award as the best and most beautiful courtyard in the city. Exploring these patios is a must-do thing in Córdoba!

Visit flower patios in Córdoba during the festival!

Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle San Basilio 14
Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle San Basilio 14

The festival – La Fiesta de los Patios de Córdoba – takes place each year in May (usually at the beginning). Tens of private courtyards participate in the festival and access to all the patios is free of charge.

If you happen to go to Córdoba during the festival, there will be a whole program and map, and timetable for when, where, and how to visit all the patios. You can read more about the festival on their website.

This is definitely the time when everyone shows off as much as possible to get the award. However, this festival attracts a lot of people – the city will be as busy as it gets!

Visit flower patios in Córdoba all year round!

Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Postrera 28
Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Postrera 28

The reality is that you can visit the patios all year round. Many patios are maintained and remain beautiful throughout the year with spring, summer, and autumn months being the best ones when a lot of different flowers will be in full bloom.

There is a whole list of patios that you can visit either on your own or on a guided tour. Check out this website for more info! There you can download a pdf file with actual tourism information – look for patios in the list and see which ones are available at the time when you are visiting!

Walk Ruta de Patios Córdoba!

Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Duartas 2
Ruta de los Patios de Cordoba - best Instagram spots of flower patios in Cordoba, Spain
Patio at Calle Duartas 2

If you happen to visit Córdoba between February and June then you might want to consider walking Ruta de Patios Córdoba route! Some of the best and most awarded patios have united together offering everyone a way to visit their patios.

You can buy tickets (they cost 6 EUR per person) and get a map with 5 different patios. With this ticket, you can enter the courtyards during certain hours. Many other private patios ask for donations so this is another way to give back.

We did this exact route as I wanted to see the most beautiful ones and did not have time to wander around endlessly searching for the most beautiful courtyard. Each one of these courtyards fits amongst the best Instagram spots in Córdoba, haha!

You can buy tickets at the ticket office at Calle San Basilio 14 (location below). Definitely check their working hours on their website (scroll down for the timetable!).

If you only wish to visit one or two of these patios, you can try to enter them with donations. I am not sure if it works that way but you can try as I saw donation boxes in some of these patios!

Photo locations (two photos from each patio):

Ticket office location: Ruta de Patios Córdoba – ticket office

14. Puente Romano de Córdoba

Córdoba, Spain - best things to do and most beautiful Instagram spots in Córdoba

The iconic Roman Bridge is one of the symbols of Córdoba city. It is a long, arched bridge crossing the Guadalquivir River and connecting both sides of the city.

The bridge dates back to the 1st century BC when it was built by the Romans. Since then it has been reconstructed multiple times.

Córdoba, Spain - best things to do and most beautiful Instagram spots in Córdoba
Córdoba, Spain - best things to do and most beautiful Instagram spots in Córdoba

Crossing the bridge is a must-do thing when visiting Córdoba. There is a big stone tower at the end of the bridge – Torre de Calahorra. Today it hosts a small museum about Córdoba and offers amazing views over the city (you can climb up to the roof!).

If you cross the bridge coming from the Historic Center there is an iconic photo spot on the other side of the bridge with a scenic view of the bridge and the skyline of Córdoba (first photo). This is one of those iconic spots where you have to have a photo!

Location: Puente Romano de CórdobaTorre De CalahorraPhoto location

15. Calleja de las Flores secret street in Córdoba

Córdoba, Spain - best things to do and most beautiful Instagram spots in Córdoba

Probably one of the most famous Instagram spots in Córdoba is this secret little alley – Calleja de las Flores. It is a super narrow street right in the heart of the Historic Center filled with flower pots and plants. There are also two arches in the middle of the street.

However, the most unique thing about this place is that you can see the striking Torre Campanario bell tower standing above the street.

Makes for a fantastic photo composition in one of the most picturesque places in the city. This is one of those secret iconic Instagram spots in Andalusia you cannot miss!

Location: Calleja de las Flores

16. Iznájar – the most flowerful town in Andalusia!

Iznajar village, Cordoba - things to do in the hidden flower village in the mountains of Andalusia, Spain
Iznajar village, Cordoba - things to do in the hidden flower village in the mountains of Andalusia

Iznájar is a small hilltop town in Córdoba province – a typical Andalusian mountaintop town with whitewashed houses and a castle on top. However, it has one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Andalusia right in the heart of it – Patio de las Comedias.

Iznajar village, Cordoba - things to do in the hidden flower village in the mountains of Andalusia
Iznajar village, Cordoba - things to do in the hidden flower village in the mountains of Andalusia

Patio de las Comedias in Iznájar is one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia for sure! It is a small square between buildings that is meticulously decorated with blue flower pots, plants, plates, colorful doors, tables, and chairs as well as a fountain.

There are also a couple more things to do and places to see in Iznájar like the Santiago Apóstol church and Iznájar castle. My favorite places were the impressive viewpoints with stunning views! This definitely is one of my favorite Instagram spots in Andalusia!

Location: Patio de las Comedias in Iznájar

17. Rooftop of the Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga

Best Instagram spots in Malaga, Spain

One of the symbols of Malaga is the cathedral! It is a landmark building in the city and by being built in the Renaissance architectural style it is one of the most beautiful places in Malaga.

Apart from the beautiful architecture, this cathedral also holds a special secret – you can actually climb on the roof of it for some of the most iconic photos in Malaga and Andalusia!

The rooftop of the cathedral was definitely among my favorite Instagram spots in Malaga! Especially because we got to visit shortly before the sunset and everything was in beautifully warm and golden colors.

Visits to the roof happen in groups at certain times. You can buy tickets at the cathedral or online where you can see the timetable for the visits. The roof is not easily accessible as you can only get there by ascending ~200 steps through a narrow staircase.

The group is accompanied by two guides who will let you walk around the perimeter of the roof. The views of the city and the port of Malaga are quite magnificent! This is definitely one of the bucket list things to do in Malaga!

Location: Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga · Entrance

18. Malaga Bullring from Gibralfaro mountain

Best Instagram spots in Malaga, Spain

There is only one place in Andalusia where you can get an iconic shot of the typical Spanish bullring from above. And it is from Gibralfaro mountain in Malaga making it one of the most iconic Instagram photo spots in Andalusia!

Gibralfaro Mountain is one of the best places to go to see Malaga from above. There is a paved path leading uphill the mountain with some benches along the way. And there are a couple of different viewpoints. The exact photo location is below.

Locations: Photo location · Mirador de Gibralfaro

19. La Concepción – historic botanical garden in Malaga

Hidden gems and unique spots in Malaga, Spain

One of my favorite Instagram spots in Malaga and also one of my favorite places to see Malaga from above is La Concepción. It is a historic botanic garden on the outskirts of Malaga city.

There is an entrance fee of 5.20 EUR to visit this garden and it is open every day except on Mondays. You can visit it for free on Sunday afternoons (read more here). This place was a beautiful estate of an aristocratic family.

The garden is not only full of exotic and unique plants, but also historic buildings and charming corners – waterfalls, sculptures, ponds, gardens, and greenhouses. The most iconic place and a fantastic photo spot is the historic gazebo with views over Malaga!

Location: Jardín Botánico Histórico – La Concepción · Historic viewpoint with

20. Castillo de Colomares – the most unique castle in Andalusia!

Castillo de Colomares - hidden gems in Andalusia, Spain

Although it sounds like it is a castle, Castillo de Colomares is actually a monument in the form of a castle dedicated to the life of the explorer Christopher Columbus. It is one of the most unique, but, at the same time, beautiful places in Malaga province.

Castillo de Colomares - hidden gems in Andalusia, Spain
Castillo de Colomares - hidden gems in Andalusia, Spain

What makes it very unusual is that it does look like a centuries-old castle, but it was actually finished in 1994 after a 7-year-long construction. You can visit this beautiful hidden gem in Andalusia for an entrance fee of 3 EUR.

Unique hidden gems in Andalusia - Castillo de Colomares
Unique hidden gems in Andalusia - Castillo de Colomares

This monument was a work of a private artist so you won’t find it in most travel itineraries about the best things to do in Malaga so many tourists, unfortunately, never find out about it.

Besides the beautiful architecture, this monument also houses the smallest church in the world measuring less than 2 square meters! Can you imagine a church that small? I hope you get to visit this place – one of my favorite hidden gems in Andalusia!

Location: Castillo de Colomares

21. Iconic flower wall and church view in Marbella

Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Marbella Old Town
Most beautiful streets in Marbella, Spain - Calle Carmen

Marbella is a wonderful coastal town in Malaga province and it is said that Marbella has the most beautiful old town in Andalusia which makes it a mandatory stop during your travels around Andalusia.

There are two iconic photo spots in Marbella – the historic city square Plaza de los Naranjos and this flower spot in Carmen Street. Although it is a very short street it is pretty iconic and definitely one of the most beautiful streets in Marbella!

What makes it so special is the charming Andalusian-style combination – there is a stunning white wall covered with blue flower pots and red flowers – the perfect Instagram photo spot.

But if you then look in the direction of the yellow tower of Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación church it makes the photo spot even more perfect! If you plan to visit the coastal part of Andalusia, definitely make at least a short stop in Marbella!

Location: Calle Carmen in Marbella

22. The iconic hiking trail Caminito del Rey

Best things to do in Andalusia, Spain - Caminito del Rey

Caminito del Rey is one of the bucket list things to do in Andalusia, Spain. It was once considered one of the most dangerous hikes in the world but since reconstruction a couple of years ago it is now a relatively safe and easy hike!

Best things to do in Andalusia, Spain - Caminito del Rey
Best things to do in Andalusia, Spain - Caminito del Rey

Caminito del Rey translates as the King’s Little Path – the King of Spain really was here and even crossed one of the bridges! It is a unique walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge. It is one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Andalusia!

The hike is about 8 kilometers long from start to finish (there is a 1 to 1.5-kilometer walk from the parking lot to the start of the trail). It goes along a wooden and concrete walkway. The hike offers some of the most iconic Instagram photo spots in Andalusia!

Best things to do in Andalusia, Spain - Caminito del Rey
Best things to do in Andalusia, Spain - Caminito del Rey

To walk in complete safety and find out more about the gorge and the iconic hiking route I recommend joining a guided tour. We did this and the guide was really fun and energetic. One of my favorite memories from Andalusia!

Location: Caminito del ReyEntry tickets and shuttle bus

23. The Balcony of Europe in Nerja

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Nerja, Spain
Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Nerja, Spain

Nerja is a coastal town in the famous Costa del Sol area in Spain. It is located just a 50-minute drive away from Malaga city and offers more authentic experiences in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The most famous place in Nerja is the so-called Balcony of Europe. It is a viewpoint built above a cliff – a large platform stretching into the sea with some fantastic views over the Mediterranean Sea, the mountains, and the coastline.

What to do in Nerja, Spain

This has to be the busiest place in Nerja as there are benches to sit on, restaurants, ice-cream shops, and a beautiful palm-lined promenade. People just come here to relax and socialize. It is a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset as well!

The Balcony of Europe is the ultimate must-visit spot in Nerja and one of the most popular photo spots in Nerja, so definitely take a photo here! You can get a great shot on the balcony, from the side, or from the beach next to it.

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Nerja, Spain

The square on top of the balcony is also lined with beautiful white double arches decorated with Andalusian-style blue flower pots with flowers. We came here to watch the sunrise and it was one of my favorite memories from our Andalusian road trip!

Location: Balcón de Europa

24. The famous Cueva de Nerja

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Nerja, Spain

Nerja caves are probably amongst the most impressive caves I have visited (and I have visited many!). Obviously, it is a popular tourist attraction in Nerja and a must-visit place in Nerja for any visitor to this town and Andalusia!

The entrance to the cave costs 13 EUR and can be bought online for the exact time you wish to visit. It goes like a conveyor belt – you arrive at your designated time, show tickets to the staff and enter the cave.

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Nerja, Spain

The cave is pretty huge and full of stalagmites and stalactites. You can get there by taxi, a car, or a special tourist train that goes from Nerja center to the cave and back. This is definitely one of those iconic bucket list places to visit in Andalusia!

Location: Cueva de Nerja

25. Frigiliana – the charming whitewashed flower village!

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Frigiliana village, Spain
Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Frigiliana village, Spain

Frigiliana is considered one of the most beautiful whitewashed villages in Andalusia, Spain. With narrow cobblestone streets, houses, and stairs decorated with flowerpots and plants, this is a charming destination in the South of Spain.

It is located just a 15-minute drive away from Nerja and is definitely worth a visit! Frigiliana is a typical whitewashed Andalusian village built on a hillside. It is decorated with plants, flower bushes, and all tones of blue and purple doors!

Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Frigiliana village, Spain
Best Instagram spots of the most beautiful places in Frigiliana village, Spain

We spent 3 fantastic days exploring the historic center of Frigiliana. The village has unbeatable views and it is one of my favorite places in Andalusia! Check out the best places to visit in Frigiliana and the most beautiful photo spots in this charming village!

Location: Frigiliana

26. Balcony of Almería – Cerro San Cristobal

Best things to do and most beautiful Instagram photo spots in Almería, Spain
Balcony of Almería

Almería is a city of fascinating heritage on the shores of the Andalusian coast. We enjoyed exploring the Old Town of Almería with narrow streets filled with rich history and art and made sure to find all the best photo places in Almería city!

Where to get the best views in Almería? Cerro San Cristobal! It is a viewpoint on a nearby hill in Almería with panoramic views over the city. This place is also called the balcony of Almería and for a good reason! You have the whole city at your feet!

Best things to do and most beautiful Instagram photo spots in Almería, Spain
Best things to do and most beautiful Instagram photo spots in Almería, Spain

Getting to the top requires walking up the hill from the city. It is definitely challenging especially during hot days. There is a large monument of Jesus on the very top of the hill with a hollow bottom part where you can actually walk under the monument.

Despite being a bit dirty this is a must-visit spot during your trip to Almería. You won’t get better views than this! We had a car so we actually drove to the parking lot right at the bottom of the hill and then walked up. You can also take a taxi to make the climb easier.

Best things to do and most beautiful Instagram photo spots in Almería, Spain
View of Alcazaba from Cerro San Cristobal

There are multiple fantastic photo opportunities at Cerro San Cristobal. My favorite spot was taking the photo from the bottom of the monument with the view of the city. It created a frame for the city like in a postcard! One of my favorite Instagram spots in Almería for sure!

Location: Cerro San CristobalParking lot

27. Calle Ciegos in Jerez de la Frontera – the most beautiful street in Spain!

Best Instagram photo spots in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

One of the most special and beautiful spots in Andalusia is hiding in the heart of Jerez de la Frontera city! There is a street named Calle Ciegos or the Alley of the Blind which is considered one of the most beautiful streets in Spain!

The combination of the narrow and winding cobblestone street, the vine leaf cover above the head, and the view of the cathedral at the end of the street make this an iconic place in Andalusia!

We visited this place in spring when the leaves were not in full bloom yet. However, we got a great view of the cathedral! In a couple of weeks – sometime around May or later – the street will look like a leave-covered tunnel!

Best Instagram photo spots in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
Calle Ciegos or the Alley of the Blind in Jerez de la Frontera

This street was once a public street. It was named Calle Ciegos or the Alley of the Blind because this was once a usual gathering place for poor and blind people who would beg for money from churchgoers. The street was a regular route to go to the church.

However, it is not publicly accessible today. After the famous González Byass sherry and wine bodega expanded, the municipality allowed this street to be included in their territory. You can only access it if you go on a tour to González Byass bodegas.

I would guess you can visit this street if you go to the Restaurante Pedro Nolasco restaurant that is located right next to this street. Or if you stay at their hotel – Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe – and ask them to show you this street. It is all part of their territory.

Location: Calle CiegosBodega Tio Pepe

28. Seaside views of the Cathedral of Cádiz

Cadiz, Spain - best Instagram spots and things to do in Cadiz

Cádiz is one of the most emblematic cities in Andalusia. Considered as the oldest city in Western Europe it offers a great combination of historic evidence from different ages and centuries.

One of the most iconic Instagram photo spots in Cádiz is the view of the cathedral. Nowhere else in Andalusia, you can get a seaside view of a cathedral of such proportions and the skyline of the city than this view in Cádiz.

The best view and photo spot of the cathedral is from the Baluarte de Capuchinos fortress located right next to the seaside promenade. You get a fantastic overlook of the city coastline and the majestic Cathedral of Cádiz.

There is also another viewpoint along the promenade – Mirador El Vendaval – where you can get another great shot of the coastline and the cathedral. However, I could say that this from the Baluarte de Capuchinos fortress was slightly more iconic.

Location: Baluarte de Capuchinos · Mirador El Vendaval

29. Bell tower of the Cathedral of Cádiz

Cadiz, Spain - best Instagram spots and things to do in Cadiz

The Bell Tower of the Cathedral of Cádiz was one of my favorite Instagram spots in Cádiz and one of my favorite places in Andalusia! We visited countless cathedrals in Andalusia but this one left the biggest impact on me because of the beautiful tower!

Climbing to the tower is included in the entrance fee to the cathedral, so this is definitely a bucket list thing to do in Cádiz! First, you visit the cathedral, and then at the exit of the cathedral, there is a door to get to the tower.

Cadiz, Spain - best Instagram spots and things to do in Cadiz

The climb is long. There is a continuous incline spiraling upwards until the very top of the tower. There are no stairs, but a flat surface leading up. Once you get to the top there are 360-degree views over the city.

I really recommend walking up there at full hours when the bells ring. It was loud and it was fun to experience the bells ringing right above your head! Just be prepared for some very loud noises!

Definitely one of the coolest places and experiences to have in Cádiz. And definitely one of the most beautiful and iconic Instagram photo spots in Andalusia – something you won’t see anywhere else in Andalusia for sure!

Location: Bell Tower of the Cathedral of Cádiz

30. Olvera – the town with the most picturesque views!

Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Olvera
Olvera – the town with the most picturesque views!

Featuring some jaw-dropping views, Olvera is one of the most beautiful towns in Andalusia with some unmatched picturesque views! It sits on a hilltop with a church and castle standing high above the rest of the village.

Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Olvera
Calle Calzada street
Most beautiful whitewashed villages and unique towns in Andalusia, Spain - Olvera
The landscape of Olvera town

Must-do things in Olvera whitewashed town include exploring the Historic Center of the town and climbing up Calle Calzada street to the scenic Iglesia Mayor Parroquial hilltop church.

The best place to visit – Olvera Castle! The castle was built in the 12th century as part of the defensive system for the Nasrid Kingdom. It sits on a rock at 623 meters above sea level and offers some of the most picturesque views in Andalusia!

If you visit the castle (it has working hours and an entrance fee), there are stone stairs leading up the cliff to the castle and at one point you can get this iconic view of the massive church below you! One of the most iconic Instagram spots in Andalusia!

Location: Olver

31. Stand between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea in Tarifa!

Best things to do and see in Tarifa, Spain

Tarifa is amongst the most unique towns in Spain and there is a special reason – it is the Southernmost point in not only Spain but in the whole of Europe. So Tarifa is a bucket list place to visit in Andalusia!

Definitely one of the bucket list things to do in Tarifa is walking the border between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. There is a narrow road into the water that draws a line between the two bodies of water.

Approximately in the middle of the road, there are two metal signs indicating which side of the road belongs to which territory – the ocean or the sea. Definitely snap a photo here while standing between the sea and the ocean!

Best Instagram spots and best things to do in Tarifa, Spain
Best Instagram spots and best things to do in Tarifa, Spain

This is a must-visit place for any visitor in Tarifa! Luckily the road is open all the time so you can go there any time of the day you want. Beware that the wind may get crazy here! It almost swept us off our feet!

As you walk further down the road you will reach the Isla de Tarifa islet. It is the Southernmost point in Spain and in Europe.

However, you should know that the whole islet is closed down. You can only get there in guided groups by booking an appointment prior to your visit.

Best things to do and see in Tarifa, Spain
Best things to do and see in Tarifa, Spain

Although you probably won’t be able to access the islet, you won’t miss out on much! There is not much left of the fortress and the old port that was on the islet years ago. But you can walk down to the beaches on the islet and enjoy the scenery from there.

Location: Frontera Mar Mediterráneo – Océano Atlántico

Happy exploring!

Andalusia, the Southern region of Spain, is a one-of-a-kind place. It offers the perfect mix of history, architecture, vibrant cities, quiet hidden villages, unique nature, scenic hikes as well as sandy beaches and the perfectly blue water of the Mediterranean Sea.

We spent almost 3 months discovering everything Andalusia had to offer starting from world-famous places like Alhambra, we went underground inside Nerja cave, hanged in the air at the Caminito del Rey hike, and picked up our jaws when we saw Ronda bridge.

I hope you enjoy your time in Andalusia as much as we did! And I hope you will get some inspiration from my blog to make your trip even more adventurous, fun, exciting, and unforgettable! Andalusia is definitely worth it!

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Best Instagram photo spots in Andalusia, Spain
Best Instagram photo spots in Andalusia, Spain

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