With its long history, Andalucia is rich in palaces, forts and castles. Often located on hills to be defensive stronghold, they allow you to travel back in time and enjoy splendid views of the regions.
Below is my selections of the best forts and castles in Andalucia with tips to help you plan your itinerary and your visit.
Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Andalucia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Andalucia: DiscoverCars

The unmissable visit: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces

My favorite excursion from Seville: White villages and Ronda

My favorite places to stay:
- Seville, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- Cadiz, the charm by the sea – see best rated accommodations
- Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
- Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

The best castles in Andalucia – Map
The list of castles in Andalucia is extremely long,. It almost feels like every hill has a defensive building!
We have selected some of the most scenic to visit or just admire from the outside.
Below is a map to help you get oriented with our 7 favorite:

Need to rent a car in Andalucia?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

1. Alhambra Fortress (Granada) with the Nasrid Palace (red castle)

Why it is worth visiting
The Alhambra Fortress Complex is the most important architectural survivor of the Moorish empire.
The complex and the many structures represent various time periods in the history of Granada.
Visit it to see the architectural beauty of the fort and the stunning views of the town. There are 3 sections that can be visited (different entry tickets):
- The famous Nasrid Palace
- The Generalife with courtyards and pavillons
- The Alcazaba, the oldest section
The construction of the Alhambra Fortress began under the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th century.
During the 14th century, under the rule of Yusuf I – the fortress was expanded and modified to serve as a palace.
The fortress and the palace remained the seat of the Emirate of Granada until the end of the Moorish rule over the Iberian Peninsula.
After the reconquest, the palace was modified to bring in a few Roman Catholic elements.
Despite the many changes to the fortress, the present day complex continues to be a major representation of the Moorish architectural era.

What not to miss in Nasrid Palace (Nazaries)
The Nastrid Palace or the Old Royal Palace primarily consists of the following three parts:
– Mexuar to the west, the Comares Palace in the center and the Palace of the Lions towards the west.
Do not miss the
– intricate carving all across the walls of the palaces
– the arabic motifs and epigraphy particularly in Comares Palace and the Palace of the Lions
– the reflective pool in the middle and the beautifully preserved Comares Baths on the side
– the central fountain in the Palace of the Lions with a poem inscribed on it that used to explain the working of the hydrolic systems!
– the Hall of Two sisters on one end of the courtyard in the Palace of the Lions with its majestic muqarna domes
After observing the Nazaries Palace in detail, it is interesting to observe the similarities and the differences in the palace and the courtyard of the the Charles V Palace – a structure built in the Roman Renaissance style.

What not to miss in the Alcazaba
The Alcazaba is the oldest area in the Alhambra Fortress complex and also the first residence of Ibn al-Ahmar, the first Nasrid ruler.
Do not miss:
– the distinct triangular shape of the Alcazaba
– look at the towers to orient yourself- the Torre de la Vela or the Bell tower
– the bell was installed in the Christian times to signify the victory of the Romans over the Moors- the view of the valley from the Torre de la Vela
– the Puerta de las Armas
– the original 13th century entrance to the Alcazaba

What not to miss in Generalife
The Generalife is a palace with beautiful courtyards and pavillons. It is a short walk away from the walls of the Alhambra.
Do not miss:
– the many beautifully laid down courtyards and the narrow walkways talking you to different levels
– the palace complex
– the palace used to be the summer residence of the Nasrid dynasty and the Patio dela Acequia still retains some original Nasrid wall work
– the plush and relaxing water features and fountains
– the spectacular views from the many viewpoints all across the various levels

How to get there
- The Alhambra Fortress Complex is located in the city of Granada
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h40 min
- Driving time from Malaga = 1h40 min
- How to get there From the city town, it is located on a hill
– take the Alhambra red bus
– it leaves every 10 minutes from Columbus. Get down at the main gate
– use the Granada City Train to hop on and hop off around town, including the palaces
– get you ticket
– walk for about 15 minutes uphill Plaza Nueva to the Puerta de la Justica
– by car: park outside the Alhambra and enter from the main gate

Visit tips
- Opening hours: 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Price: 19€ includes all 3 sections of the forts, but you can only visit parts of it
- The Nazaries Palace is the most famous and you have to book many months in advance to have a chance to visit it (especially if traveling in Summer)
- Even if you can’t have a ticket for the Nazaries palace, I recommend visiting the rest
- How long to plan: 4 to 6 hours, if you visit everything
- Difficulty of the visit:
– Book the tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment
– If you enter from the main gate, visit the Generalife first and then the other areas
– Lots of walking and climbing required. Wear appropriate footwear
– For better understanding, take a guided tour
– No entry without producing original passport or ID proof
– For the palace: no entry allowed before or after the selected hour of visit. Reach before time - Sometimes, there are no private tickets left but you can find guided tours with some spots left – Check out some options
- Website

Where to stay nearby
- Granada deserves at least one night to be able to explore the historical town
- We recommend: Hotel Casa Morisca (a mid-range 3-stars hotel) – an old noble house in the historic district of Albayzin
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Granada
2. Almodovar del Rio

Why it is worth visiting
The Castle of Almodóvar del Río is a castle located in the town of Almodóvar del Río.
The castle overlooks the town below, and it is surrounded by a moat and walls.
It is an excellent living example of medieval military architecture.
In recent years, it has also gained popularity for its use in the series ‘Game of Thrones’.
History in brief
– This Arab castle dates back to 740 AD
– In the 13th century, during the Reconquista, it was conquered by Ferdinand III, the saint
– Pedro I and Enrique II used it as a royal residence, a jail and a place used to store great treasures
– During the course of time, it has undergone many reconstructions and renovations
– The latest one being in the early 20th century when Rafael D., the XIIth count of Torralva, inherited it and spent 36 years restoring it

What not to miss
A day trip to the Almodovar del Rio fortress is packed with things to do and see.
Do not miss:
- stopping at the open space in the central courtyard to take in the feel of what life in the medieval times seemed like
- appreciating the beauty of the chapel built in Gothic style architecture with a frescoed ceiling
- climbing to the top of the many towers inside – the views go as far as your eyes can see
- watching the 20-minute film showing how the castle looked in the medieval times
- checking out the Game of Thrones pictures next to the actual filming locations
And don’t forget to drive around the town to find the best views of the fort on top of its hill.
How to get there
- Town / location – Almodovar del Rio
- Driving time from Cordoba = 30 minutes
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h30
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- How to get there –
– by car: limited parking at the top. Reach early to get a spot. If not, you need to park the car at the base and then walk uphill for about 15 minutes
– by bus: many buses run from the central bus station to the castle. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes
– train: no direct train to Almodovar del Rio. Take a train till Cordoba and then a bus thereafter

Visit tips
- Opening hours: Mon to Fri – 11 am to 2:30 pm & 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, weekends: 11 am to 7 pm (up to 8 pm in summer)
- Price: 10 €
- Pre-purchased your ticket to save time
- How long to plan: 1 to 3 hours depending on your liking
- Difficulty of the visit: Climbing up several steps is required during the visit. Wear appropriate footwear. Carry enough water. Leave stroller in the car.
- Website
Where to stay nearby
- Cordoba is only 30min drive away. It is one of my favorite places to stay in Andalucia
- We recommend: Boutique hotel La Llave de la Juderia – traditional vibe within walking distance to all attractions
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Cordoba
- Or you can stay in Almodovar del Rio to admire the forts under the sunset – Check out the accommodations
Where to stay in Andalucia?
My favorites on a road trip:
- In Sevilla, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- In Cadiz, the charm by the sea – see best rated accommodations
- In Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
- In Granada, for the history – see best rated accommodations
- In Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

3. Cordoba Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos

Why it is worth visiting
The Cordoba Alcazar is considered to be one of the most important attractions in Cordoba for its historical and cultural significance.
Yet, it is not as famous as others because it has to live in the shadow of the famous mosque-cathedral!
The Cordoba Alcazar is famous for its Mudejar architecture – a unique blend of Muslim and Christian elements. It was used as the headquarters of the inquisition in their campaign against the last ruler of the Nasrid dynasty.
The Alcazar was originally built in the 14th century to serve as a palace for King Alfonso XI of Castile.
In the later years, the castle was used as a royal residence, a prison and the headquarters for the inquisition.
Even though it was built in the Christian times on a site with Arab remains, the architecture incorporates multiple Arab elements.
I really enjoyed the freedom of exploring the different sections and enjoying the views.

What not to miss
- Appreciate the Mudejar elements in the form of the many arches and domes and glazed tiles.
- Check out the Moorish baths on the ground floor
- Stop at the Hall of the Mosaics – a room decorated with Roman mosaic tiles of the 2nd century AD
- Inside the Alcazar, stop to admire the Torre de los Leones – the most emblamatic of all the towers as it dates back to the 13th century.
- The chapel inside and the views from the top are particularly impressive.
- The true beauty of the place is in the gardens outside that spread over an extensive area
- Admire the fountains, the diverse variety of trees in various sizes and shapes and the scenic large ponds added to the gardens in the 19th century

How to get there
- Town / location – Cordoba
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h 30 mins
- Driving time from Malaga = 1h 30 mins
- How to get there from the city center
- You can easily walk in this city – from the Mosque-cathedral it is less than 10min of walking
- Or you can enjoy the hop on hop off bus system, which is a great way to get around town – get your ticket

Visit tips
- Opening hours:
– 16 September to 15 June = Tue to Sat: 8:30 am to 8 pm, Sunday 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday closed
– 16 June to 15 September = Tue to Sat: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, Sunday 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday closed - Price: 5 €
- How long to plan: 2h. Lesser if you don’t want to spend time in the gardens.
- Difficulty of the visit:
– Need to climb a few stairs to visit the towers. If you only visit the gardens, most areas are accessible.
– Most of the signage is in Spanish. Get a guided tour to make the most out of your visit. - Website
Where to stay nearby
- Cordoba is one of my favorite places to stay in Andalucia
- I recommend: Boutique hotel La Llave de la Juderia – traditional vibe within walking distance to all attractions
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Cordoba
4. Fortaleza de la Mota

Why it is worth visiting
Fortaleza de la Mota enjoys a hilltop location with exquisite views of Sierra Nevada and Andalucian countryside.
The interior of the fort far supercedes its external beauty.
Its present-day restored state is ideal to understand what life in the medieval times would have been
Fortaleza de la Mota was a walled town dating back to the 8th century. It was originally built by the Moors.
Its architectural glory was at its peak during the 12th and 13th century – particularly during the Nasrid period.
Its strategic location between Granada, Jaen and Cordoba meant that it played a significant role in the reconquest period.
It was conquered by the Alfonso VIII for the first time in 1213.
But it fell back into the Arab hands later until it was finally conquered by the Christian rulers in the late 14th century.

What not to miss
The Fortaleza de la Mota was a full-fledged town. So there is lots of to see and with very few tourists, the experience is enriching.
Most of the structures are under restoration – so what you see are the original medieval-aged structures.
Don’t miss:
- observing the walls of the city and the many towers to get a feel of the military importance this fortress enjoyed
- the 16th century church – presently reconstructed – is the primary attraction. Don’t miss the video film played here. One of the best for understanding the history from the Moors to the Christians.
- listening to the audio guide throughout the course of your visit (included in ticket price)
- Enjoying the views of the countryside
How to get there
- Located in the town of Alcalá la Real, Jaen Province
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h30
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- How to get there – The best way to visit Fortaleza de la Mota is by car. Free parking next to ticket counter.

Visit tips
- Opening hours: – From 15 October to 31 March = everyday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm- From 1 April to 14 October = everyday from 10.30 am. to 7.30 pm
- Price: 6 €
- How long to plan: 2h
- Difficulty of the visit: The fortress is located on top of a hill. The climb is pretty steep and lots of walking required to fully explore the place.
- To appreciate it even more, book a guided tour
Where to stay nearby
- Central to many towns, you can visit it as a day trip from Cordoba, Jaen, Malaga, Granada…
- Or you can stay in town – Check out the best rated accommodations in Alcala la Real
5. Real de Alcazar (Sevilla)

Why it is worth visiting
Real de Alcazar is the most stunning monument in Sevilla and one of the most famous for its incredibly rich history and architecture.
It is easily one of the best Mudejar structures in the world. An absolute must-visit!
And contrary to the Nasrid palace in Granada, here you can roam free. The entire fort is large and you are not stuck with groups of people.
In 913, Abd al-Rahman III ordered the construction of a fortress. The fortress area was expanded further in the 10th century with the addition of the Al-Mubarak palace.
The Real de Alcazar is historically siginificant for being:
– the royal residence of the Moors
– the European capital of the Almohads
– the residence of the Catholic rulers after the reconquest
– the home of one of the most exuberent Mudejar palaces in Spain: the palace built by Pedro I
– the cultural and political power center of Sevilla until recent times

What not to miss
Real de Alcazar is a treat as every structure and architectural element is representative of an important period in the history of the Iberian Peninsula.
Taking a guided tour is recommended to get the most value from your visit.
Don’t miss:
- The Lion’s Courtyard – The facade dates back to 12th century and is a blush pink wall with a tiled lion on it.
- Patio de la Doncellas – Observe the magnificent details of the carvings, the hints of Mudejar architecture of the first floor (added later)
- Los Baños de Doña María de Padilla – the stunning, photogenic bath of María de Padilla – located underneath the Patio del Crucero
- Salon de Embajadores – gold covered ceiling and gate belonging to the 11th century
- the Hall of tapestries, the dolls courtyard, the Mercury pond, the Gardens and the orangerie…
And the stunning gardens!

How to get there
- Town / location – Sevilla
- Driving time from Sevilla = none – located in the center of Sevilla. No free parking nearby. Leave your car at the hotel or at a paid parking a few meters away.
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h 30 mins
- How to get there:
– By bus: Walk from any of these stops – Estacion Prado, Menendez Pelayo, Puerta Jerez or Prado San Sebastian
– By tram, metro/train: Walk from Prado de San Sebastrian or Puerta Jerez stations respectively
– use one of the hop-on hop-off bus to explore the large city – get your ticket

Visit tips
- Opening hours:
From October 1 to March 31: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
From April 1 to September 30: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm - Price: €13,50 (reduced prices or ticket with access to limited areas available)
- How long to plan: 2 to 4h
- Get a ticket before to avoid the longer queue at the entrance
- Difficulty of the visit: Expect to walk all across the area – but hardly any climbing required.
- There is so much to see in Sevilla, that I would recommend a guided tour to better understand this architectural marvel – check out this one
- Website
Where to stay nearby
- Sevilla is a great place to spend a few days. There is much to see and enjoy
- I recommend Soho Boutique Hotel, beautiful decor just outside the Jewish Quarters –
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Sevilla
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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6. Alcazar de Jerez

Why it is worth visiting
The Alcazar the Jerez offers incredible insights into the historical progression of the region from the Almohads to the Catholic rulers.
It is one of the best sites to observe the old Arabic baths and cisterns.
What’s great is that the Alcazar is located in the heart of the town and can be seen in about 1-2 hours.
In the 11th century, the site of the Alcazar was home to Caliphate constructions from the second Taifa period.
In the 12th century, the Almohads built a large fortress as their place of residence here.
After the reconquest the fortress went into the hands of the Catholic rulers – it became the seat of the Christian mayors.
Over the course of time, many new structures were built here in place of old Arabic monuments.

What not to miss
Once at the Alcazar:
- Walk around the fortified walls. Observe the change in architectural influences – from the Almohads to Alphonso’s. Take in the surrounding views and check out the towers
- Visit the Santa Maria La Real chapel – which was originally the site of a mosque
- See the well-preserved Arab baths, cisterns and other ruins
- Visit the Palace of Villavicencio – a structure belonging to the 17th century and completely different from the 12th century fortress. Don’t miss the old pharmacy.
And if you visit the town, check out my guide with the best things to do in Jerez.
How to get there
- Town / location – Jerez de la Frontera
- Driving time from Cadiz = 30min
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h15
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h30
- How to get there – The best way to reach Alcazar de Jerez is on foot from the center
Park your car in a paid parking outside the old town.

Visit tips
- Opening hours: 9:30 am to 3 pm, 9:30 am to 6pm (In July and August)
- Price: Historic site: Adults: €3 – Monumental Site and Dark Camera: Adults: €5.40
- How long to plan: 1h-2h
- Difficulty of the visit: Climbing required to visit the towers and the walls – or for the camera obscura
- Website
Where to stay nearby
- Can can stay in Jerez for a quiet stay close to many villages and Cadiz
- I recommend Eurostars Asta Regia Jerez hotel – located in an old style building; it has a perfect location for explore all on foot. And it comes with a buffet-style breakfast – check out photos and availability
- Check out the best rated accommodations in Jerez
- Or you can head to the coast and stay in Cadiz
- I recommend Parador de Cadiz – I wanted a nice modern stay with sea views. And I was not disappointed!
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Cadiz
7. Alcazaba de Antequera

Why it is worth visiting
The Alcazaba de Antequera is an emblamatic attraction in Antequera.
Its keep is one of the tallest towers built by the Moorish in the Andalucian region – the best viewpoint in Antequera.
The Alcazaba as it stands today was constructed in the 14th century to counter the Catholic advances.
But the site itself and many of the structures inside the fortified wall stood since much earlier.
It was the fortified walls of the Alcazaba that kept the Catholic advances at bay for an extended period of time and gave Antequera the title of a ‘strong city’
Eventually, after it fell into the hands of the Castilian – many structures were built here.
The largest bell in the region is here – at the homage tower installed in 1582.

What not to miss
The interiors of Alcazaba have structures from various different periods. But the real attractions are the towers.
At the Alcazaba,
- observe the rectangular structure of the fortress
- take in the view of the rooftops from the fortified walls
- climb up the towers – particularly the homage tower with its enormous bell (the sound at the hour is deafening)
- see the other towers
- see the ruins of structures from the Roman, Moorish and Christian times – use the audio guide for better understanding
And if you visit the town, check out my guide with the best things to do in Antequera.
How to get there
- Town / location – Antequera
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h 45 mins
- Driving time from Malaga = 50 mins
- How to get there:
– Alcazaba is on one end of Antequera on the top of a hill. Best way to reach is by car
– But even after parking the car, climbing is involved
– Take a bus or train to Antequera and then walk to the city center and then up the hill

Visit tips
- Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Mon to Sun)
- Price: €6 with access to Royal Collegiate Church of Santa María
- How long to plan: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty of the visit: Lots of climbing involved. There are sufficient places to rest along the way too.
Where to stay nearby
- Thee is lots to do in Antequera. I recommend spending a night on a road trip
- Check out the best rated accommodations in Antequera
- Or you can visit on a day trip from malaga.
- I recommend Hotel Boutique Villa Lorena by Charming Stay in a quiet area, if you are looking for tranquility not far from everything
see photos and availability - Check out the best rated accommodations in Malaga
And keep track of your own trip!

8 to 15 – other forts
8. Zahara de la Sierra Fort

Why it is worth visiting
Zahara de la Sierra fort sits on top of the gorgeous town of Zahara de la Sierra.
The fort is essentially a tower that dates back to the 14th century. Even though there isn’t much to see at the actual fort, the walk to the top offers lots to do
- seeing ruins of a Nasrid village,
- checking out a museum on the way
- stopping for photos at various viewpoints all along the wa
- taking in the views from the top of the tower – admire the turquoise lake below.
- hiking from the mirador across the tower to the top for even better views
Visit tips
- Town / location – Zahara de la Sierra
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h30
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm everyday
- Price: Free
- How long to plan: 1-1.5h
- Difficulty of the visit: 15 minute climb over an uneven terrain. Quite steep.
- Website
9. Olvera Fort (Castillo de Olvera)

Why it is worth visiting
The Olvera Fort was built in the 12th century during the Nasrid times.
The castle is unique as it is shaped like an elongated triangle just like the shape of the hill on which its is built.
Like other forts from this region, this fort also has two towers and structures from the Moorish times.
The views from the top are exhilerating – especially if you want to click pictures of the colourful roofs of the white village of Olvera.
Visit tips
- Town / location – Olvera, Cadiz
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h30
- Driving time from Malaga = 1h30
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday (Monday closed)
– Winter = 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
– Summer = 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Price: €6
- How long to plan: 1 hour
- Difficulty of the visit: Moderate – involves climbing up a narrow path and spiral stairs
- Website
10. La Calahorra

Why it is worth visiting
The La Calahorra Castle is unique because unlike the castles in this area – this castle (as seen today) does not belong to the Moorish times.
It is located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range.
It is one of the first Italian Renaissance castle built outside Italy and dates back to the early 16th century. Observe the circular bastions and see the four towers on each of the corners of the rectangular fortress.
The fortress is privately owned and entry is open only on Wednesdays – but actual timetable may vary.
Even if you can’t go inside, a quick stop at the fortress is worth it for its Renaissance-styled architecture and the views from the top.
Visit tips
- Town / location – La Calahorra, Guadix region, Granada
- Driving time from Sevilla = 3h15
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours: Open only on Wednesday – 10 am to 1 pm, 4pm to 6 pm – But it is privately owned and tour availability, timings and entry fee may vary.
- How long to plan: Usually a 30 mins guided tour is offered on Wednesday. On other days, see it from outside – Plan about 15 mins
- Difficulty of the visit: Drive up a dirt road and take the same road back down.
11. Alcazaba de Guadix

Why it is worth visiting
The Alcazaba de Guadix is a historical gem of the less touristy region of Guadix.
The beautiful fortress is made using characteristic reddish clay – seen in many Moorish structures.
The fortress has multiple towers and the walls along its rectangular area look attractive.
Even if you can’t see the place from inside (As it is under reconstruction and open only on Friday) – it is worth stopping by for a photo.
If you walk from the outside along the walled area – check out the views towards the Magdelena end – panoramic view of old churches and buildings
Visit tips
- Town of Guadix
- Driving time from Sevilla = 3h
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours: Friday Only – 11 am to 12 noon, 4 pm to 5 pm
- Price: Free guided tour – Book at the Guadix tourist office in advance
- How long to plan: 45 mins
- Difficulty of the visit: Moderate – not too many stairs
12. Castillo de Sebastian, Cadiz

Why it is worth visiting
The San Sebastian Fort is located on a small island near the Cadiz coastline – connected by a promenade.
The Sebastian Fort in Cadiz boasts of a rich history that goes back to the times of the Greeks.
The site of the fort used to host Greek temples of Kronos. During the Muslim period, a watchtower was built here.
In the 15th century, the sailors of a Venetian ship taking refuge on the island built a chapel here – dedicating it to San Sebastian.
The fortress that is seen today was constructed in the 18th century and still houses the former chapel and lighthouse.
Entry inside the fortress is not allowed for visitors.
But from the promenade – you get the best views of the Cadiz seafront with the backdrop of the Cathedral.
Go before sunset for the best photos.
Visit tips
- Town / location – on the seafront of Cadiz
- Driving time from Sevilla = 1h30
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours: Entry inside the fort is not permitted. Promenade leading up to the outside area is open 24*7
- Price: Free
- How long to plan: 30-45 mins to soak the coastal views
- Difficulty of the visit: Easy pedestrian-friendly promenade
- Learn more about the best things to do in Cadiz
13. Alcaudete

Why it is worth visiting
The Alcaudete Castle is an Arab fortress built over a Roman site.
Unlike many other forts though, this fort fell into the hands of the Christians for the first time in 1085 itself.
The Muslims recaptured it a few times until the mid 14th century when the Christian power completely took over the fortress.
The fortress remains in excellent condition – very well restored to give a real feel of the medieval times.
A tour here feels fulfilling thanks to the addition of escape rooms and other engaging activities. The audio guide also gives detailed insights.
Visit tips
- Town / location – Alcaudete, Jaen province
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h
- Driving time from Malaga = 1h 45 mins
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday – 11:00 am to 4:30 pm Saturday – Sunday – shorter period – check before going
- Price: €3 – guided tours for extra price available
- How long to plan: 1-1.5 hours
- Difficulty of the visit: Moderate – climbing a few steps is required
- Website
14. Zuheros

Why it is worth visiting
The Zuheros castle is a unique castle built into the impregnable rock overlooking the town of Zuheros.
The original structure on this site was built in the 9th century itself. The Zirid dynasty turned it into a castle in the 11th century.
The present day structure – which is more Renaissance styled – was a result of the remodeling of the 15th century.
There is not much to see or do in the castle itself – with only one tower being accessible to tourists.
But the view from above is spectacular. You can see all of the Zuheros white village from above.
The overview helps get an idea of the planning of the village.
The surrounding area also has a few cafes and viewpoints.
Tickets available at the museum nearby – which also opens the fort for you. Hardly any tourists inside.
Visit tips
- Town / location – Zuheros, Cordoba
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h
- Driving time from Malaga = 1h 30 mins
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am to 2 pm, 4 pm to 6 pm, Monday closed
- How long to plan: 30 mins
- Difficulty of the visit: Moderate – only 1 tower is open for visitors to climb
15. Guardia de Jaen

Why it is worth visiting
The Guardia de Jaen fort occupied a strategically important position during the Muslim times as well after its capture by Fernando III.
After the Nasrid dynasty was completely wiped out, the castle was modified for use as a palace.
Thus from its original structure in the 8th century – the fort has seen numerous modifications and reconstructions all the way to the 19th century.
A visit inside allows us a peek into the history of this specific fort. But unfortunately, the reconstruction work makes a visit difficult.
If you visit:
– see the existence of square and circular tower, from different time periods
– its two cisterns
– Gothic gate and arches
– remains of a Catholic church
Otherwise, stop for a quick photo of the beautiful town of Guardia de Jean.
Visit tips
- Town / location – 10 kms from Jaen, Sierra Magina
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h 45. mins
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours: Closed for visitors due to reconstruction. But at times, opens on the first weekend of every month. Check with the La Guardia Town Hall
- How long to plan: 15-20 mins
- Difficulty of the visit: Few steps need to be climbed if seen from inside
- Website
16. Alcazar de Arriba (Carmona)

Why it is worth visiting
This was Pedro I’s favourite palace. But before that it was a fort from the Almohad times.
In the 15th century, it took the shape of an oval shaped guarded fortress- proving to be a more resistant defense area than other Alcazars.
However, it suffered considerable damage in the earthquakes of the 16th and 18th century.
Today, the Alcazar de Arriba is closed. The part belonging to the Parador hotel is open.
If you visit the part belonging to the hotel – you will see beautiful arches, rooms and views of the lush Carmona region.
Visit tips
- Town / location – Carmona, Sevilla
- Driving time from Sevilla = 40 mins
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h 15 mins
- Opening hours – Privately owned by Parador hotel
- How long to plan: 45 mins if you go inside the hotel area. If not, quick stop for a photo from outside
- Difficulty of the visit: Easy
And many more
The list can continue…
- Castillo de Marbella
- Alcazaba in Almeria – castillo de Santa Ana
- The Colomares castle (not really a castle but a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus)
- Castillo De Niebla
Palaces in Andalucia
The forts may be the most impressive, but in the main cities, you can also find smaller palaces, which also have a lot of charm.
Here are my 3 favorites (beside the Nazaries palace).
Palacio de Viana (Cordoba)

Why it is worth visiting
The Palace built in the 15th century was passed down to multiple owners. It is named after its last owner of the 20th century.
The palace was built by reconstructing and redesigning multiple residential homes from the Middle ages.
Today, it is one of the best-maintained stately homes of Cordoba.
A visit to the palace is a great chance to see a lived-in palace with decorated patios.
A ticket allows you access to the 12 patios outside and the palace.
A guided tour is available, but you can even visit on your own using the informational leaflet.
You can see an orange courtyard, a courtyard with a pool, a lush garden, a stable, an old chapel and much more.
In the interior, you can see artefacts, artwork, paintings and other collections of the nobles who stayed here.
Visit tips
- Town / location – Cordoba
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h
- Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Saturday – 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday 10 am to 3 pm
– July & August – 10 am to 3 pm
– Monday closed - Price: € 10 – patios + palace + guided tour
- How long to plan: 1 hour
- Difficulty of the visit: Easy
- Website
Palacio de Lebrija (Sevilla)

Why it is worth visiting
The Lebrija Palace is a 16th century Sevillian town house.
It was restored in the 20th century by the Countess of Lebrija to incorporate priceless elements and artwork from various time periods.
Every inch of this palace is beautiful – from the mosaics of the Roman empire to the vases, artworks, arches, doorways… its an archeological treasurebox.
A tour through the collections and the rooms provides many historical insights. A must-visit for art and history lovers!
Visit tips
- Town / location – Sevilla
- Driving time from Sevilla = located in the city center
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h30
- Opening hours: 10 am – 2:15 pm and 3:15pm to 6pm (last access 45 minutes before closing) – open everyday
- Price: € 12 – guided tour, free access on Friday at 10 am
- How long to plan: 1h
- Difficulty of the visit: Easy
- Website
Palacio de Jabalquinto (Baeza)

Why it is worth visiting
This palace is one of the most emblematic palaces in Baeza for its fine Gothic architecture. Every element is a visual treat.
It was built in the 15th century and the courtyards were developed in the 16th century in the Renaissance style of architecture
Observe:
– the impressive façade with decorative elements
– the difference in arches in the first floor and the second floor, and how the two complement each other beautifully
– the Baroque staircase
Visit tips
- Town / location – Baeza, Jaen region
- Driving time from Sevilla = 2h50
- Driving time from Malaga = 2h30
- Opening hours: 11am to 2pm everyday
- Price: Free
- How long to plan: 30 min
- Difficulty of the visit: Easy
- Website
Want to see more of the best Andalucia has to offer?
- Best landscapes in Andalucia in 40 pictures – read article
- 24 best things to do in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
- 17 most beautiful white villages in Andalucia – read article
- 20 best beaches in Andalucia – read article
- 21+ best cities and towns in Andalucia – read article
- Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada – where to go? – read article
- Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia – read article
Planning a trip to Andalucia?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
And keep track of your own trip!

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