Mallorca & Southern Spain - Itinerary
The dramatic coastal landscapes of Mallorca, the breathtaking Moorish architecture of Andalusia, the unique experience of walking across the border into British Gibraltar, and a quick hop over to Morocco—this captivating 14-day, late-summer itinerary covers it all. Let’s dive into the highlights.
Quick Mallorca & Southern Spain Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | This is the travel day. Getting to the airport and overnight flight to Mallorca. | In flight |
| Day 2 | Exploring Mallorca. Drive down the Sa Calobra road. Visit the town of Pollenca. | Mallorca |
| Day 3 | Exploring Mallorca. Beach coves and golden sunsets. | Mallorca |
| Day 4 | Exploring Mallorca. Drach Caves, Cape Formentor and Cape Formentor beach. | Mallorca |
| Day 5 | Exploring Mallorca. 3 impressive towns: Deia, Valldemossa and Palma. | Mallorca |
| Day 6 | Fly to Seville. Explore the cathedral and beautifl town of Seville. | Seville |
| Day 7 | Explore Seville. Visit the impressive Plaza de Espana & Royal Alcazar of Seville. | Seville |
| Day 8 | Drive to Granada, via Cordoba. | Granada |
| Day 9 | Walk the old town up to Mirador de San Nicolás. Visit the Alhambra palace & fortress. | Granada |
| Day 10 | Drive to Ronda. | Ronda |
| Day 11 | Drive to Gibraltar and spend the evening in Tarifa. | Tarifa |
| Day 12 | Day trip through organized tour of Morocco. Drive back to Ronda. | Ronda |
| Day 13 | Drive to Mijas. Enjoy the last day in southern Spain. | Mijas |
| Day 14 | Fly home. | Home |
Day 1 - Travel Day
After a long transatlantic flight and a quick layover in London, we caught an EasyJet flight from Gatwick straight to Mallorca. Once we picked up our rental car at the airport, we headed directly to our Airbnb nestled in the charming fishing harbor of Port de Sóller—a scenic seaside town that would be our home for the next five days. Tucked into the island’s rugged northern coast, it's a remarkably scenic drive to get there, even before you hit the true mountain roads.
Day 2 – Exploring the North: Sa Calobra & Pollença
The Drive to Sa Calobra Beach:
Let’s start with a warning: this drive is not for everyone. The road to Sa Calobra is easily one of the scariest routes I have ever navigated. It features 12 kilometers of jaw-dropping, 180-degree hairpin turns carved directly into the mountain side just to reach the sea.
Even reaching the start of this pass is a challenge, thanks to narrow mountain roads and tight corners. Essentially, you climb so high into the mountains that it feels like you've landed on another planet, before plunging down the dramatic Sa Calobra switchbacks to reach the water.
⚠️Important Travel Tip: Do your research and ensure you are completely comfortable with high-stakes mountain driving before attempting this. Taking a local bus is an alternative, though watching a massive coach navigate those tight corners brings a thrill all its own. Bottom line: this road demands an experienced, confident driver who is up for a serious challenge.
The Charming Town of Pollença:
After surviving the drive, we headed to Pollença—a gorgeous, historic mountain town. It is famous for its El Calvari chapel, which sits at the summit of 365 stone steps (one for each day of the year).
The town offers wonderful valley views and beautiful squares lined with great restaurants. It's the perfect place to enjoy some authentic tapas and a glass of refreshing sangria to fuel up before tackling the climb!
Day 3 – Hidden Coves & a Spectacular Harbor Sunset
Discovering Mallorca's Calas
Mallorca is famous for its gorgeous, turquoise cove beaches—known locally as calas. It is worth noting that the most beautiful coves rarely come easy. Reaching them often requires a decent trek from the parking area along a cliffside trail, followed by a steep climb down via rustic dirt paths or stone stairs. Pick a cove, pack light, and enjoy a rewarding few hours soaking in the sun and crystal-clear water.
Golden Hour at Port d'Andratx
To wrap up the day, head down to the upscale harbor town of Port d'Andratx. Be sure to check the local sunset timing and arrive early to beat the crowds. Find a spot at one of the sunset-facing outdoor cafés or restaurants lining the waterfront promenade. If you are visiting in September, the angle of the sun delivers an absolutely spectacular, golden-hour light show over the water.
Day 4 – Shopping, Undergound Caves, & Dramatic Peninsular Lookouts
Morning: Shopping in Mallorca
If you forgot to pack any essentials (or just want to browse), don't worry—Mallorca has fantastic shopping options. You can head into the capital city of Palma for traditional shopping malls, or stop by the Mallorca Fashion Outlets, a beautiful outdoor outlet village located just a short drive outside the city center.
Afternoon: The Caves of Drach
Next, head toward the eastern coast to visit the world-famous Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach). These massive underground limestone caves feature incredible stalactite formations and culminate in an unique experience: a live classical music performance on an underground lake at the very end of your tour.
Evening: Cap de Formentor & Mirador de Es Colomer
Conclude your day by heading up to the dramatic northernmost tip of the island. Located near Pollença, the Mirador de Es Colomer offers some of the most fantastic, cliffside coastal views in Mallorca. If you continue driving past this lookout along the winding, scenic road, you will reach Platja de Formentor—a beautiful, pine-fringed beach that makes for a perfect final stop.
Day 5 – Exploring a Trio of Iconic Towns: Deià, Valldemossa, & Palma
Deià: The Artists' Village
Nestled in the mountains of the rugged northern coast, Deiàis widely considered one of the prettiest villages on the entire island. As you approach, the landscape is incredibly dramatic—a steep hillside village surrounded by towering peaks, palm trees, and cacti, all framed by sweeping Mediterranean views.
Valldemossa: Old-World Charm
A short, scenic drive south from Deià brings you into the interior mountain town of Valldemossa. This town oozes old-world charm, characterized by its stone houses, quiet squares, and narrow cobblestone alleys beautifully decorated with vibrant potted plants hanging from the walls. It is a fantastic place to wander, browse boutique shops, and stop for a relaxed lunch.
Palma de Mallorca: The Historic Capital
Conclude your island stay by heading into the capital city, Palma de Mallorca, to explore its rich history and architecture.
Castell de Bellver: Start on the hilltop at Bellver Castle. This unique, circular Gothic fortress offers a commanding, 360-degree view of the city and the vast Bay of Palma.
La Seu Cathedral & Old Town: Head down into the historic center to marvel at the landmark Gothic cathedral, which dominates the city's waterfront skyline, and lose yourself in the labyrinth of surrounding streets.
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina: Located right next to the cathedral, this stunning fortress is an official residence of the Spanish royal family. Its name comes directly from the Arabic word for "fortress," reflecting its Islamic origins.
The Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs): Just a short walk away, these exceptionally preserved 10th-century baths stand as another tranquil reminder of the island's deep Moorish history.
Day 6 – Flight to Andalusia: Arriving in Seville
Settling into Seville
It's time to leave the island of Mallorca behind and head to mainland Spain. After a quick flight, you will land in Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia. From the airport, hop in a taxi straight to the historic city center, dropping you right near the breathtaking Seville Cathedral.
Exploring the Historic Core
Spend your afternoon wandering the bustling, sun-drenched streets of the old town and marveling at the cathedral—the largest Gothic church in the world. As the afternoon turns to evening, find a table at one of the city's countless lively tapas bars to indulge in local Andalusian specialties like jamón ibérico, espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas), and a refreshing glass of local sherry or tinto de verano.
💡 Pro Travel Tip: While exploring, you will pass the magnificent Royal Alcázar of Seville. It is absolutely essential to pre-purchase your tickets online well in advance of your trip. The lines here get incredibly long, and time slots regularly sell out days ahead.
Day 7 – Iconic Seville: Plazas, Palaces, & Moorish Heritage
Morning: Plaza de España & The Waterfront
Begin your morning on foot at the breathtaking Plaza de España. Built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, this colossal semi-circular square features stunning brickwork, colorful tile bridges, and a flowing canal. Budget at least an hour here to leisurely wander the pavilions and admire the architecture. From there, take a scenic walk back along the Guadalquivir River. Along the waterfront, you will pass the historic Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, Spain's most prestigious and important bullfighting arena (note that tickets are required if you wish to tour the interior).
Afternoon: The Royal Alcázar of Seville
In the afternoon, head to your pre-booked time slot at the Royal Alcázar of Seville. This magical, sprawling palace complex is a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture—a style that beautifully blends Christian and Moorish design elements. Spend your hours getting lost in its opulent, intricately carved halls and wandering through the lush, labyrinthine royal gardens filled with fountains and orange trees.
Days 8 – Driving through History: Córdoba to Granada
For this next leg of the Andalusian journey, having a rental car is highly recommended. We picked up a vehicle from a Budget Car Rental location right near Seville's city center and hit the road toward Granada, planning a major stop along the way in the magnificent city of Córdoba.
A Deep Dive into Córdoba
Córdoba is a spectacular destination where history, culture, and architectural splendor converge. It stands out for several incredible reasons:
Historical Significance: In the 10th century, Córdoba was the capital of the Islamic Caliphate and one of the most advanced cities in Europe—renowned globally for its libraries, universities, and scholars. It served as a brilliant hub of peaceful coexistence among Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities, leaving behind a profound cultural legacy.
The Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque-Cathedral): This iconic structure is Córdoba’s absolute crown jewel. Originally constructed as a grand mosque in the 8th century, a Renaissance cathedral nave was built right into its center following the Christian Reconquista. Walking through its endless forest of red-and-white horseshoe arches and viewing the intricate mihrab (prayer niche) is an unforgettable experience.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The entire Historic Centre of Córdoba is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city lie the ruins of Medina Azahara (Madinat al-Zahra), a sprawling 10th-century Islamic palace-city that is also UNESCO-recognized.
The Roman Bridge: Spanning the Guadalquivir River, this ancient bridge offers a beautiful viewpoint of the city skyline. Pop culture fans will also recognize it as the Long Bridge of Volantis from the hit television series Game of Thrones.
Arriving in Granada
After a full day of exploring Córdoba, continue the drive south to Granada. We checked into an incredible apartment that treated us to absolutely fantastic, sweeping views of the illuminated Alhambra palace and the historic city below—a perfect base for the next couple of days.
Day 9 – Enchanting Granada: Moorish Magic & Flamenco Fire
Granada is a city where Moorish history, dramatic mountain landscapes, and passionate flamenco culture collide in the most enchanting way. As the last Muslim stronghold in Spain before 1492, its architecture, cuisine, and local traditions reflect a rich, undeniable blend of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences.
Here is what you cannot miss during a full day in the city:
The Legendary Alhambra
Granada’s absolute crown jewel is this sprawling hilltop fortress-palace complex. A masterpiece of Islamic architecture, it features intricate stucco work, tranquil courtyards, and the lush, water-flowing terraces of the Generalife gardens. It truly feels like stepping straight into a 13th-century dream. Plan for at least three hours to thoroughly explore the grounds.
💡 Pro Travel Tip: You must buy your tickets to the Alhambra at least 3 months ahead of time! It is one of the most visited monuments in Europe, and tickets sell out completely months in advance.
Wandering the Albaicín & Sacromonte
Spend your afternoon exploring Granada's historic neighborhoods on foot:
The Albaicín: A labyrinth of narrow, whitewashed medieval streets that beautifully echo the city's Moorish past.
The Mirador de San Nicolás: Located in the heart of the Albaicín, this viewpoint offers a postcard-perfect panorama of the entire Alhambra with the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains looming in the background. It is especially magical at sunset.
Sacromonte: Right next door, this hillside neighborhood is famous for its historic white cave dwellings dug into the mountain side.
Evening: Free Tapas & Live Flamenco
Conclude your day by immersing yourself in Granada's legendary culinary and musical traditions:
The Free Tapas Tradition: Granada keeps a beloved local custom alive—order a drink at almost any local bar, and you will get a free, delicious plate of tapas. It turns simple bar-hopping into an absolute culinary adventure.
Sacromonte Flamenco: As one of the historic birthplaces of flamenco, seeing a raw, passionate, and soul-stirring performance inside one of Sacromonte's traditional caves is a visceral experience you will never forget.
Days 10 – Dramatic Ronda: A Storybook Town Atop a Gorge
Welcome to Ronda
Leave Granada behind and embark on a beautiful countryside drive to Ronda. This spectacular destination feels like a storybook town, perched dramatically above a sheer canyon—equal parts breathtaking and historic. For our stay, we rented a fantastic three-bedroom house tucked just off the cutest street close to the center of town, making it the perfect base to experience everything the area has to offer.
Here is what makes Ronda an unforgettable stop:
The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge): Ronda’s most iconic landmark is this massive 18th-century stone bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge. It flawlessly connects the old Moorish quarter (La Ciudad) with the newer part of town (El Mercadillo). Towering 120 meters above the canyon floor, this engineering marvel took over 40 years to build.
The Historic Bullring: Built in 1785, the Plaza de Toros de Ronda is one of Spain’s oldest and most architecturally significant bullrings. The town is widely considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting, heavily influenced by the legendary Romero family who revolutionized the art here.
Moorish Legacy: The town’s 13th-century Arab Baths (Baños Árabs) are among the best-preserved in Spain. You can also explore the Casa del Rey Moro, which features an incredible secret water mine with stairs carved directly down into the cliffside.
Cultural & Literary Influence: The dramatic vistas of the El Tajo gorge and the surrounding Sierra de las Nieves region have long captivated creative minds. Legendary figures like Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles were deeply inspired by Ronda's raw beauty; in fact, Welles was so attached to the town that his ashes are buried on a nearby estate.
Authentic Local Flavor: Ronda is a premier stop on the Andalusian Wine Route, surrounded by boutique vineyards. After a day of walking, sit back to enjoy a traditional paella, try some savory local Rondeño chorizo, and sip a glass of regional wine while gazing out over the sweeping valley below.
Day 11 – Gibraltar: The British Outpost on the Mediterranean
The Journey to the Border
The drive from Ronda to Gibraltar is a stunning adventure through the heart of Andalusia, offering a beautiful mix of rustic mountain charm and sweeping coastal vistas. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Because you are leaving Spain and entering a British Overseas Territory, do not forget your passport!
After clearing passport control and customs, you will experience one of the most unique arrivals in the world: walking directly across a fully operational, active international airport runway to reach the main town.
Here is what makes this tiny peninsula so absolutely fascinating:
The Mighty Rock of Gibraltar: This massive limestone monolith completely dominates the landscape and has stood as a global symbol of strength for centuries. The Upper Rock is home to the famous Barbary macaques—the only wild monkeys in all of Europe. Local legend holds that as long as the monkeys remain on the Rock, Gibraltar will stay under British rule!
A Highly Strategic Location: Perched on the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar historically guarded the western entrance to the Mediterranean via the Strait of Gibraltar. On a clear day, you can head down to Europa Point and easily look directly across the 13-mile strait to see the coast of Africa.
Underground Mysteries: The Rock itself is honeycombed with history, hiding over 50 kilometers of tunnels carved out over centuries, including vital passages used during World War II. Local lore is packed with rumors of hidden, radiation-proof bunkers, and an old legend even claims a natural, subterranean tunnel connects St. Michael’s Cave all the way across the sea to Morocco.
A Mediterranean-British Fusion: Walking through the town is a surreal cultural experience. You will spot classic British red telephone boxes, Union Jacks, and traditional pubs serving fish and chips, yet the territory perfectly blends this British identity with local Spanish, Genoese, and Moorish influences in its language, architecture, and food
Late Afternoon & Evening: Discovering Tarifa
After wrapping up our exploration of Gibraltar, we jumped back in the car and drove just under an hour south to the coastal town of Tarifa. Perched at the southernmost tip of continental Europe, Tarifa is a spectacular, windswept jewel where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea literally collide. You can actually stand at the division and see a distinct difference in the water color between the two oceans.
Tarifa was a massive, wonderful surprise for us—we had no idea how much we would fall in love with it. Even our hotel perfectly matched the town's captivating mood, offering a beautiful architectural blend of Andalusian and Moroccan design.
Here is what makes this coastal crossroads so special:
The Kitesurfing Capital of Europe: Driven by the powerful Levante and Poniente winds, Tarifa is a global mecca for wind and water sports. Dozens of surf schools line the coast, and the sky above the expansive beaches is constantly dotted with colorful sails dancing in the breeze.
Whale Watching & Rich Marine Life: The deep waters of the Strait of Gibraltar serve as a vital migration highway for marine mammals. It is a premier hotspot for catching glimpses of fin, sperm, pilot, and even orca whales, with local boat tours offering close encounters as these creatures move between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
Historic Old Town Charm: The 10th-century Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno still stands guard over the coast, holding centuries of history regarding Moorish sieges. Beyond the fortress lies a maze of whitewashed houses, quiet cobblestone streets, and lively squares like the Plaza de Santa María.
A Bohemian Cultural Crossroads: Being just a 35-minute ferry ride across the strait from Tangier, Morocco, Tarifa serves as the ultimate gateway between Europe and Africa. The local vibe is a laid-back, bohemian blend of Spanish and Moorish influences, where surf shops sit right next to traditional tapas bars and contemporary art galleries.
Golden Beaches & Natural Parks: Endless stretches of fine sand like Playa de Los Lances and Valdevaqueros are perfect for sunbathing, walking, or horseback riding. The surrounding Parque Natural del Estrecho features great hiking trails that look straight across the water toward the mountains of North Africa.
Ancient Roman History: Just a short drive down the coast along Bolonia Beach, you can explore Baelo Claudia—exceptionally well-preserved Roman ruins showcasing ancient temples, thermal baths, and an intact fish-salting factory from the 2nd century BC.
Day 12 – A Whirlwind Day Trip to Tangier, Morocco
When you have traveled all the way to the absolute edge of southern Spain, you simply cannot miss the opportunity to cross the strait and experience Morocco. To make the most of our time and keep logistics simple, we booked an organized half-day excursion in advance using GetYourGuide.
Traveling from Tarifa to Tangier is a vibrant, whirlwind cultural escape that packs an incredible amount of flavor, color, and history into just a few hours. Here is what a premier day tour typically includes:
The Ferry Ride Across the Strait: Your journey begins at the Port of Tarifa, where you board a modern high-speed ferry for a smooth 45 to 60-minute crossing to the Tanger Ville port. As you glide across the water, you can enjoy watching the coast of Europe recede while the dramatic skyline of North Africa slowly comes into sharp focus.
A Guided Walking Tour of the Medina: Upon arrival, a local guide leads you straight into the heart of Tangier's historic Medina—a vibrant labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys bursting with the aromas of spice shops, colorful textile stalls, and local artisan workshops.
Exploring the Kasbah & Historic Squares: The tour takes you up into the fortified walls of the Kasbah, which offers majestic, panoramic views of the bay below and deep insight into Morocco’s multi-layered history. Along the way, you will navigate through the Grand Socco and Petit Socco, bustling public squares that serve as the absolute center of local daily life.
A Coastal Excursion to Cap Spartel: Many organized tours include a short, scenic drive out of the city center to Cap Spartel, the dramatic promontory where the Atlantic Ocean officially meets the Mediterranean Sea.
The Caves of Hercules & Camel Rides: Nearby, you can step inside the legendary Caves of Hercules, famous for their sea-facing opening that naturally mimics the shape of the African continent. To top off the adventure, the excursion often includes the classic, unforgettable experience of a brief camel ride right on the golden sands of the nearby Atlantic beach.
Day 13 – Mijas Pueblo: A Picturesque Finale on the Costa del Sol
The final destination of this incredible journey is the beautiful town of Mijas, Spain. Located just a short drive from the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, it is the ultimate stress-free base for tomorrow's departure flight.
We stayed high up in the mountainside village of Mijas Pueblo at a wonderful boutique hotel that treated us to panoramic, sweeping views of the entire Costa del Sol coastline down below. It is a stunning blend of whitewashed Andalusian tradition, coastal beauty, and mountain serenity.
Here is what makes this historic village so uniquely charming:
The Ultimate Pueblo Blanco: Perched dramatically on the hillside, Mijas Pueblo is the quintessential Andalusian white village. It is a joy to explore, characterized by narrow cobblestone lanes, bright blue flower pots hanging from whitewashed walls, and endless vistas of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
Fascinating Landmarks: The village features several incredibly unique sites, including the Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña—a historic chapel carved directly into a sheer rock face. It is also home to a historic Plaza de Toros that stands out due to its unusual oval shape, and the quirky Miniature Museum (Carromato de Mijas), which displays microscopic masterpieces painted onto grains of rice and pinheads.
Ancient Walls & Gardens: The beautifully landscaped Botanical Gardens and the historic La Muralla area offer peaceful walking paths winding along the ruins of the town's ancient fortress walls, providing a quiet place to watch the sun go down.
A Final Andalusian Evening
We wrapped up our final evening in Spain by wandering the illuminated streets for some last-minute souvenir shopping. We settled into a cozy local restaurant for a memorable farewell dinner, lingering over fantastic tapas and excellent regional wine while soaking in the quiet charm of this beautiful town one last time.
Day 14 – The Journey Home
After 15 incredible days exploring the vibrant cities, historic landmarks, and stunning coastlines of Spain, it was officially time to head home.
We made the short drive from Mijas Pueblo down to the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, where dropping off our rental car was a quick and seamless process. From there, we boarded our EasyJet flight over to London before catching our final connecting flight back home to Canada. It was the perfect end to an absolutely unforgettable trip of a lifetime.