35 best things to do in Antequera (Andalucia, Spain)

Why visit? Best things to do in Antequera, Andalucia

Is Antequera worth visiting?

Antequera is definitely worth visiting.
It may not be as famous as some other cities in Andalucia, but is is one that offers a wide variety of attractions: from prehistorical dolmens, to white house, fort, monasteries and an exceptional geological feature with pancake rocks.

What is Antequera famous for?

Antequera is famous for 2 reasons:

• The ancient large dolmens that can be visited and are in great conditions
• The unique geological features of Torcal de Antequera, with pancake rocks

Top 5 things to do in Antequera

I will introduce the best things to do in Anteqeura in more detail later in the article with photos and details.
Here’s the list of my top 5:

1. Visit at least one of the Dolmens, but all 3 are great
2. Go up to the Ermita de la Vera Cruz viewpoint, to see the entire city with white houses and the ‘Lovers’ Rock.
3. Do at least one walk at Torcal de Antequera
4. Walk around the old town - so many interesting perspectives and buildings to enjoy
5. Visit the Alcazaba (fort)

More photos and things to do after the planning tips.

Planning Tips & Map - Antequera, Andalucia

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Andalucia:

How to get to Antequera

• by car - it is located in the Antezuera mountains, but the drive is not difficult.
  
• by bus - public transport available from Malaga, Marbella, Seville and more.
• by organized tour from Malaga - book a day trip to explore both Torcal and Dolmens - see program and availability
• by organized tour from Granada - book a day trip to explore both Torcal and Dolmens - see program and availability

Getting around town

• For the old center, on foot but know that the Alcazaba is on a hill, so you will have to climb stairs
• And to explore the dolmens and the rest of Antequera, you need a car
• You can also read a carpark closer to the fort, to avoid climbing the hill
• Hop-on-hop-off touristic train in season, with 11 stops and 8 language audioguide
• All around town you can find maps with all the highlights in town
• Careful at Torcal de Anteqeura, after rain, the hikes are extremely slippery 
• Or you can book a guided walking tour of the old center - see details and availability
• and you can book a guided tour for the dolmens and Torcal - see details and availability

Touristic map of Antequera - what to see

Below is the touristic map you can find all around town to help you find the main buildings of interest.
To the left is the Alcazaba (fort), to the right is the bullfighting ring.
As you can see it is not difficult to navigate.

Where to stay in Antequera

Best areas to stay in Antequera

There are 3 main choices to stay in this town:

• staying in the old town within walking distance of everything
• staying in the newer parts of town (around the Bullfighting ring Plaza de Toros and all around the old center)
• staying in the countryside around

Best places to stay in Antequera - accommodation suggestions

• where I stayed
  Najera Suites, a well-equipped apartment in the historical center
  see photos and availability
• another apartment more modern
  Apartmento Andalucia Centro
  see photos and availability
• Luxury
  Hotel Convento l Magdalena will charm you with the stunning views from the garden
  see photos and availability
• Value
  Hotel Infante Antequera with a small rooftop pool
  see photos and availability
• Countryside stay
  La Fuente del Sol Hotel & Spa will offer luxury in the peaceful countryside 10km from Antequera
  see photos and availability

#1 to 4 - Dolmens

Antequera has 3 very different dolmens in great state of preservation.
This is one of the most important examples of Megalithism in Europe, and a UNESCO site.
I recommend visiting all 3. They are all worth it.

#1 - Start by watching the video at the main site

The main site at the Dolmens is Enclosure 1 which has Dolmen de Menga and Dolmen de Viera.

Right at the entrance is the Site museum. Watch the Menga audio-visual here.

It explains how some of the features were built, with animations.
The actual dolmen sites do not have informational posts.
So try to learn as much from this video to gain better context when visiting the sites.

Free access but get your ticket in the Reception
Plan 1h to visit both sites
Close on Mondays - Open at least 9am to 3pm

#2 - Visit the Menga dolmen

Visit the enormous Menga Dolmen - a giant chamber with the entrance aligned for the summer solstice.
It is 27.5m (90ft) long and 6m (20ft) wide.

The Menga Dolmen constructed approximately 5000 years old is the largest dolmen in Europe.
Its size and enormity leave you in awe of the architectural precision of the Megalithic era.

The experience of visiting this site is also made delightful thanks to the helpful staff.

#3 - Visit the Viera dolmen

Next, visit the Viera dolmen - another chamber with a giant corridor leading to it.

The Viera dolmen was constructed around 3500-3000 BC. The structure used 16 upright stones.
Barring a few stones at the entrance which are missing, the rest of the structure is fairly intact.

Notice how construction styles changed since the period in which Menga dolmen was constructed.
While the Menga feels more magnificent, the Viera exudes a cold, quiet sensation throughout. 

#4 - Visit El Romeral dolmen

The El Romeral is located on the same site but farther away from the other two dolmens.
You will have to take a short drive to reach this secondary site.

The El Romeral is a different structure with round beehive chambers.

The El Romeral is the most modern of the three dolmens and is built around 1800 BC. 
It is considered to be Tholos or a Cueva styled dalmen.
The El Romeral is believed to possess the first ever false vault in history. 

#5 to 7 - best viewpoints over Antequera

#5 - Ermita de la Vera Cruz

The Ermita de la Vera Cruz is a charming little church.
This temple was built in the 16th century as a symbol of victory over the Moors. 

 Website

The church is not as magnificent as some of the other churches in the old town.
But a drive to this hilltop location is worth it for the 365 degree panoramic views of the of the town of Antequera and the stunning fort.

On the other side, enjoy perfect view of the ‘Lovers’ Rock’ alias Pena de los Enamorados (photo top below).
As per a Moorish legend, lovers from rival clans jumped from this rock when chased by the men of the girl's father.  

#6 - Mirador Callé Jesus

This street is a delight for tourists looking for the best views of the Alcazaba, the Lovers Rock and for an interesting perspective of the Torcal de Antequera. 

The  street is the best to enjoy a back view of the Alcazaba. If you take this road to get out of town, don't miss the view around the playground. 

#7 - From the fortification walls around Alcazaba

Reaching the Alcazaba involves a bit of climb. Wear good shoes, carry water and be ready with a great camera.

The fortification walls and the two towers of the Alcazaba are the real attraction here, much better than the actual interiors.

From the walls and the two towers, you can get the most rewarding views of the city and its beautiful rooftops. 

(More details on visiting the Alcazaba later in the article)

#8 to 23 - best things to do in Antequera old town

#8 - Plaza de Santa Maria & Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor

The Santa Maria Square is home to the Real Colegiata de Santa María (Collegiate Church).
The square is a great place to absorb the historic vibes of the town and see the Roman Therms.

The Collegiate Church was the first church in Andalucia to use Renaissance styled architecture. 

Its façade is spectacular and often used as the face of Antequera.
But the inside of the church is not very impressive. If you are not into Renaissance structures, you can skip going inside.
In fact, the church is non-operational and the building is only used for touristic purposes.

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 9 am to 3 pm
Price: 3 €
Website

#9 - Roman Therms (Termas Romanas)

Tourists can observe the Roman Thermae from over a fence from Plaza Santa Maria.
You can read an informational post put up here and observe the details of the ruin from above.

The Roman Thermae were built in the 1st century AD and were used till the 5th century with a few restorations along the way.
These thermae are significant because they support the existance of the old town of Antikaria under the present day town. 

Website

#10 - Alcazaba

The Alcazaba is the most important attraction in Antequera.
It is a fortified palace overlooking the town of Antequera.

The fortress was originally built in the 11th century and underwent numerous changes. The fortress, as seen today, was built in the 14th century.
It is one of the largest structures built in the Moorish rule over the Iberian peninsula. 

To visit the place and understand the significance of its architecture, it is advisable to book a tour or use the audio guide.

The interiors of the Alcazaba are not in a great state. But the walls and towers offer the most breathtaking views of the town of Antequera.

Reaching the Alcazaba involves a bit of climb. 

Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Mon to Sun)
Price: 3.5 € 

One of the best castles in Andalucia - see our list.

#11 - Palacio de Najera

The Palace of Najera is one of the most modern structures in the old town of Antequera.

It was built in the 18th century. The lower and first floor were built in the first half and the lookout tower in the second half.

The palace has an attractive façade and the arches in the courtyard inside add to its charm. 

Website

#12 - Museo de la Ciudad de Antequera

The Musuem of the City of Antequerra is located inside the Palacio de Najera. It is one of the most appreciated tourist places in Antequera. 
The museum's collection is neatly structured to provide you an in-depth overview of the archeology, history and fine-arts of Antequera.  
The exposition ranges from  prehistoric times to the contemporary era.

The quality of its collection is impressive, especially the Roman section.The proper maintenance of the museum is also a huge draw.
Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2h here. For history-loving tourists, visiting the museum can  be an ideal starting point. 

Opening hours: 10 am to 2 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm (Tuesday to Friday),
9:30 am to 2 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:30pm (Saturday) and 9:30 am to 2 pm (Sunday)
Monday closed
Price: 3 €
Webiste

#13 - Convento Santa Catalina de Siena

This Order of the Dominican Sisters' Covent is a simple attractive structure in the Coso Vijeo square. 

This church replaced the older church in its place. The present church uses a standard convent plan. 

Observe its simple façade with a small tower in the corner and the arched central entry.
The interiors are far more elaborate than the exterior. Even though it primarily uses the Baroque style of architecture, its design elements are pretty uncommon. 

A quick visit inside is sufficient to observe the architectural nuances and appreciate its pleasant vibe. 

#14 - Plaza Portichuelo with Portichuelo chapel and church

The Plaza Portichuelo is one of the prettiest squares in the Old Town.
There are a few restaurants here from where you take in the view of the Capilla virgen del Socorro o del Portichuelo.

This chapel of Virgen Socorro is the highlight of this square.
Its architecture feels refreshingly different from the other churches and chapels in the Old Town.
I loved how the religious and architectural elements blend in the three-storey design of the chapel. 

It was also interesting to observe how different the chapel looked during the day and at night. 

Opening Hours: 8 am to 11 pm
Website

The other important structure to observe in this square is the Iglesia de Santa Maria de Jesus.
The construction of this church took almost 100 years and even after that the church had to be rebuilt often due to the damage it suffered during the French invasion.

You can look at it from the outside. For the best views sit at the Bar La Socorrilla opposite the church.

Opening Hours: 11 am to 1 pm (Monday to Friday)

#15 - Convento de Santa Eufemia

Located on the other end of the Old Town is this beautiful convent of the patron saint of the city - Saint Eufemia.
The monastery founded in 1601 was followed by the building of a church in the mid-18th century.

Observe the unique belfry and the octagonal shape of this tall building. Go inside to feel the calm energy and see the beautiful high alterpiece. 

#16 - Iglesia Parroquial de Santiago Apóstol

Right next to the Convento de Santa Eufemia is the Iglesia Parroquial de Santiago Apostol. 

Originally built as a hermitage in the 16th century, the present day church is an 18th century construction.

It is a simple yet attractive church that's definitely worth a quick visit.
The exterior is designed with Mudejar elements.
The interiors are adorned with beautiful paintings and motifs. 

Website

#17 - Palacio Marqueses Pena de los Enamorados Antequera

A few minutes down the road from Iglesia Parroquial de Santiago Apostol, you will find this elegant palace. 

It was inhabited by the influencial family of Antequera - the Rojas family. 
The name of the palace comes from the title 'Marqués de la Peña de los Enamorados' conferred upon the descendent of the nobleman Martín Rojas Manrique.  

The palace was built in the 16th century but has undergone numerous changes since then.

But even today, you can admire its civil architecture. The style is a mix of Mudejar and Renaissance.  

Website

#18 - Convento de la Victoria (Museo y Capilla de la Beata)

The Convent de la Victoria is yet another spectacular structure in the old town. It is located just a couple of minutes away from the palace. 

The convent belonged to the Order of the Tertiary Nuns founded by the Mother Carmen. 
This church is built between 1712 and 1718. Its belfry was added in the 18th century. 

At first glance, this church looks like a civil building. But once inside, you get a very calm, serene feel of a  temple. It's very peaceful.

There is a small section in the church which is a museum. It  exhibits the personal belongings and heirlooms of Mother Carmen. 

Convent Website

#19 - Museo Conventual de las Descalzas - Convento de San Jose

The museum is located in a space adjoining the Convento de San Jose - a beautiful Antequera styled Baroque church. 

The church was built in the 17th century. The façade is appealing with its elaborate details. 
The interior of the church are adorned by numerous paintings and sculptures. Take your time observing the beauty of this church.
After that, buy homemade sweets from the nuns - the most delicious homemade sweets of Antequera. 

Follow a visit to the convent, with a walk around the museum.
The museum, opened in 1999, has a huge collection of paintings, sculptures and silverwork. 
The Mannerist painting of Saint Michael Archangel and the sculpture of San Josê are particularly impressive.
Plan half an hour to observe the collection.

Opening hours: 10 am to 2 pm, 5 pm to 7:30 pm (Tuesday to Friday), 9 am to 12:30 pm, 5 pm to 7pm (Saturday) and 9 am to 12:30 pm (Sunday)

Website

#20 - Convento de Belen

This is one of the most beautiful church in Antequera. It is located a little away from the center of the town. But the church is a must-visit.

The construction of this church began in 1628.
Originally, it belonged to the Discalced Carmelites but since the 19th century it is occupied by the Sisters of the Order of Saint Clare.

It's façade is simple. But the interiors are highly ornamented.
Once inside, observe

-  blue plasterwork in baroque style
- the sculptures of Jesus and Virgin of the Sorrows
- beautiful paintings gracing the walls of the church

To illuminate the Church and see its intricate beauty more clearly, you need to pay 1€. 

Near the exit, you can buy special homemade sweets made the nuns. They are a bit expensive but quite tasty.

Website

#21 - Walk around and notice the many other churches and convents

Antequera is full of heritage structures. Walk slowly and observe all the buildings around you.
You will discover a number of more churches and convents.

E.g:

• Parroquia San Sebastian
• Real Monasterio de San Zoilo
• Convento de la Trinidad
• Convento Madre de dios de Monteagudo
• Convento de la Encarnación
• Parroquia San Sebastian
• and the charming hidden patios of the houses
• ...

#22 - Plaza de Toros and museo Taurino (Bullfighting)

The bullfighting building called the Plaza de Toros is one of the best bullrings in Andalusia. It is also an excellent tourist attraction. 

The original bullring was constructed in a year's time in 1848. 
For quick construction, basic materials were used. The wooden seating was also supposed to temporary.

Nevertheless, it continued to be used until the late 90s. In 1980, the place was completely renovated.

As a tourist,

• You can go inside the bullring, walk around its corridors and seating area. You can even enter the main arena. 
• You can also participate in non-bullfighting activities held here like flamenco or beer tasting, if held here. 
• Try local food at the in-house restaurant.

Conclude your visit to the Plaza with a tour of the Bullfighting museum. T
The museum is spread into three halls.
Learn about the bullfighting history of Antequera. See the suits of matadors and understand all about bullfighting festival.

Opening hours:
Plaza de Toros: 9:30 am to 7 pm (Monday to Saturday) 10 am to 2 pm (Sunday)
Museum: 9:30 am to 2 pm, 4 pm to 6 pm (Tuesday to Saturday), 9:30 am to 2 pm (Sunday)

Website

#23 - The various city gates around town

The town of Antequera is an architectural delight. 
Not only are the churches, convents and fort attractive, the city gates are also very appealing. 

You will find three main city gates as you pass through Antequera.
You can have a look at them any time. 

The city gates in Antequera are:

• Puerta de Estepa: A reconstruction of the original design. Looks very good at night when illuminated.
• Puerta de Granada: A reconstruction of the original. Visit it on the way back from the dolmens. Single arch, beautiful views around.
• Puerta de Malaga: Originally built in 18th century, it was the gate of the Islamic town. Later converted to a chapel. Even after reconstruction, it retains a small alterpiece.

#24 to 28 - best things to do at Torcal de Antequera

About Torcal de Antequera

One of the best geological wonders in Andalucia, El Torcal is a must stop.

The place is a mesmerizing karst landscape with unusual forms.
The mountain range is a seabed that was uplifted. The flat lying limestones had cracks and faults where water could spill. Erosion created those fascinating shapes.

Off season, you can drive all the way to the top carpark / during summer, you can come early and maybe park at the top, or park near the main road and take the shuttle - After rain, the hikes are extremely slippery - but the short path across from the building remains accessible

Free entrance to the rock formations 

Distance from Antequera is about 30 mins by car.

Website

#24 - Museum and visitor center

Start your tour at Torcal de Antequera with a visit to the visitor center. 

The primary place to visit here is the museum called the 'interpretative center'.
Spend time going through the material explaning the formation of these surprising structures.

The information is presented in a fairly easy to understand manner. But some information is only available in Spanish.

Opening hours:
10 am to 7 pm (April to September)
10 am to 5 pm (October to March)

Free entrance

#25 - Mirador Las Ventanillas

The Mirador Las Ventanillas is a spectacular viewpoint close to the Visitor Center.

It is a short 100m walk away from the visitor center.
There are many great stacks along the way
View valley at the end with rocks and mountains

#26 - Ruta Verde

The other scenic thing to do at Torcal de Antequera is hiking along the Ruta Verde. 

• Ruta Verde is a 45 minute hike - its the shortest hike. It is 1.5 km long. 
• It starts 100m opposite the visitor center - it already offers brilliant views
• Along the hike you can stop at viewpoints to take photos. Plenty of signposts available throughout.
• The hike is fairly easy. The path is rocky. But You can take older children along. 

#27 - More Hikes in Torcal de Antequera

There are 3 hikes of various difficulty and length

Green - easiest and shortest - 45 mins
Yellow - moderate, longer - 1.5 to 2h. Most complete route for proper exploration.
Ascent route - 3.8 km linear route. Not too popular

Get more info at the visitor center.

#28 - Mirador Diego Monea

The Mirador Deigo Monea offers extraordinary views of the surrounding summits.
There is an information board giving more information of the summits you see from here.

The view point is located along the road. You can also park your car here to take in the views. 

#29 to 35 - best attractions around Antequera

#29 - Closest beach to Antequera

Antequera is not a coastal town. 

The closest beaches are in Malaga which is a 50min drive

Some of the best beaches of Malaga are:

• Marbella beach area
• Nerja coastline
• Playa de Malagueta
• Playa de Guadalmar

#30 - Campo de Golf de Antequera

The Campo de Golf de Antequera is golf course located about 30 min drive from the city.
It's an 18 hole golf course.
You can visit with family. The restaurant serves good food and coffee.

Book in advance.

Opening hours: 8:30 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Saturday), 8:30 am to 4 pm (Sunday), Monday closed
Website

#31 - Day trip - Ronda and White villages, 1h West

Enjoy a day trip around Ronda, where you could visit:

• The town of Ronda with its chasm and impressive bridge
• Setenil de las Bodegas, the village with large rocks above the streets
• Charming white villages such as Grazalema...
• Learn more in my article about Ronda

#32 - Day trip - Alhama de Granada, 1h East

Alhama de Granada is a charming town overhanging a beautiful gorge.
It seems to have been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times because of its thermal waters.
It is a great mix of architecture, history and nature.
Not to be mixed up with the Alhambra de Granada which is a monument in the town of Granada.

Antequera to Alhama = 1h05 drive
Plan at least half a day of free exploring including:

• The miradors over the canyon and the walk at the bottom of it (and the prisons on the way down)
• The old center with charming streets around the church of Santa Maria de La Encarnacion
• The famous Arab baths from the 13^th century (inside Hotel Balneario)

#33 - Nacimiento del Río de la Villa

This nature reserve is located on the foothills of Torcal de Antiquera.

It has an artificial lake. The area is also a good recreational area.
You can come here for a picnic or barbeque. Plenty of swings, tables and fountains available.

#34 - Caminito del Rey

Caminito del Rey is a famous hike near Antequera.
The drive to its starting point takes about 45 mins. 

From here, you have to hike along the steep walls of an El Churro gorge.
The views are out of the world. Lots of photo opportunities.

Carry enough water and wear good shoes. Hiring a guide is recommended.

#35 - Cueva del Agua (Antequera)

Cueva del Agua is a lesser visited cave near Antequera.
Drive time is about 30 mins.

Carry your own flashlight and wear good shoes. Expect water all along.

Do not confuse with the Jaen one.

1, 2 or 3 days in Antequera - itinerary

1 day in Antequera

• Morning at Torcal de Antequera - visitor center and one hike
• Afternoon visiting the dolmen and climbing to the fort (Alcazaba) see the view over the city

2 days in Antequera

• Morning at Torcal de Antequera - visitor center and one hike
• Afternoon visiting the dolmen 
• Morning day 2 - Visit of the fort
• Afternoon day 2 - visit of the old town

3 days in Antequera

• Day 1 morning at Torcal de Antequera - visitor center and one hike
• Day 1 afternoon visiting the dolmen 
• Day 2 morning: Visit of the fort
• Day 2 afternoon: visit of the old town
• Day 3: day trip to Ronda and the white villages

FAQs

How old is Antequera?

Antequera, especially the dolmens date back to the prehistoric times. The oldest dolmen - the dolmen of Menga dates back the Neolithic period and is over 6500 years old. 

Brief history of Antequera

Antequera has a rich history. From the 7th century BC, it was occupied by the Iberian Tartessos,Turdetani, Carthaginians. It was followed by the Arab invasion in 711 and thereafter the reconquest. The city then became part of the kingdom of Seville and eventually of the Malaga conquest.
As a result, Antequera has a rich archelogical and historical heritage.

How far is Antequera from the beach?

Antequera is not on the coast. The closest beach is in Malaga which is a 50 min drive.

Some of the best beaches of Malaga are:

• Marbella beach area
• Nerja coastline
• Playa de Malagueta
• Playa de Guadalmar

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
• Best castles and forts in Andalucia - read article (to be published)
• Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada - where to go? - read article
• Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia - read article

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