Few travel figures have shaped how international visitors see Spain quite like Rick Steves. His love for Andalucia has inspired thousands to explore, including ourselves. Nevertheless, as locals, we go the extra mile to provide authentic experiences beyond the standard routes. While his guides offer an excellent introduction, there is far more to discover beyond Seville, Granada, Córdoba, and Málaga.
At Andalusia Travel Tour, we help travellers go deeper — experiencing Andalucia through its people and culture. Our philosophy is simple: deliver high-value travel experiences under international standards, offering genuine immersion in local life. Born and raised in southern Spain, but with extensive experience in the USA, Latin America, and the UK, we understand travellers’ needs and expectations like few others.
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Following Rick Steves’ Andalucia – A Classic Route
Rick Steves often describes Andalucia as “the essence of Spain,” and he’s right. From Seville’s flamenco to Granada’s Alhambra, this region captures the soul of Spain. His itineraries highlight must-see sites such as Córdoba’s Mosque-Cathedral, the white villages of Ronda, and Granada’s Albaicín quarter.
For first-time visitors, these destinations offer a perfect snapshot of southern Spain’s grandeur, showcasing layers of Roman, Moorish, and Christian history. Yet for travellers seeking something richer, the real Andalucia begins where the guidebook ends. Andalusia Travel Tour extends beyond Rick Steves’ perspective, complementing his itineraries while adding a deeper, more authentic experience.
Beyond the Guidebook – Authentic Andalucia Awaits
This is where local expertise makes all the difference. At Andalusia Travel Tour, our local guides and travel planners craft itineraries that reveal the region’s deeper stories — the family-run bodegas, ancient olive groves, and local artisans still shaping the Andalusian identity today. Our approach towards tourism will let you know local people out of the tourism trail, people who represent the most unique part of Andalucia. Without wanting to reveal more information, how does it sound to visit a traditional white village, and not only have the chance to have breakfast ‘chocolate con churros’ but also get to have lunch in private houses with their owners? we got the prize for the most innovative offering in the tourism portfolio.
Instead of following the crowds, you might wander through Úbeda and Baeza, UNESCO-listed Renaissance towns that remain blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Or explore Cádiz, Europe’s oldest city, which is pretty much an island with an 18th-century Cadiz cathedral on the coast.
For nature lovers, the Caminito del Rey, once known as one of the world’s most dangerous walkways, now offers a breathtaking perspective of Andalucia’s rugged landscape. And if you crave tranquillity, the whitewashed villages of the Alpujarras provide a perfect escape — perched between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. And remember to taste the famous ‘spanish ham from Alpujarras’ which is simply delicious.
Every tour we design blends culture, gastronomy, and local connection. It’s not just about seeing monuments — it’s about sharing stories over tapas in a family-run tavern and getting the fullest local experience.
Sample Itinerary – Andalusia Travel Tour
Day 1: Welcome to Spain
We’ll gather at our Córdoba hotel for a “Welcome to Spain” get-together. Then we’ll join the locals in their nightly ritual and head out for an ‘orientation paseo’ (stroll) through our neighborhood. We’ll finish by getting acquainted over an Andalusian-style dinner together.
Day 2: Córdoba’s Moorish Mosque and cathedral
This morning we’ll explore Córdoba’s maze-like Moorish old town, from its Roman foundations to its marvelous centerpiece — and Spain’s best Islamic sight after the Alhambra — the Mezquita.
An hour’s drive along Andalucía’s Ruta del Vino brings us to the heart of the Montilla-Moriles wine region. We’ll tour a local bodega to learn about the famous Pedro Ximénez grape — and its place among Spanish wines. After lunch, we’ll continue through the province of Jaén, getting our first glimpse at a landscape dominated by more than 60 million olive trees.
Our ultimate destination is the historic and quaint town of Úbeda, one-time home to Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Christians, and Jews.In the evening, we’ll celebrate the rhythm of Andalucía with an intimate flamenco performance.
Day 3: Úbeda
There’s more than meets the eye in this town, and this morning we’ll meet our local guide to soak up some of its Old World charms. Starting with the impressive Chapel of El Salvador, dedicated to Francisco de los Cobos, we’ll unravel its history and dive deeper into the impact of the man who put Úbeda on the map.
Later, we’ll visit the mystically inspiring Synagogue del Agua before diving back into the 21st century.
Day 4: Granada
This morning, you’ll explore Spain’s Islamic past with a visit to the stunning Alhambra — a masterpiece of Moorish architecture surrounded by peaceful gardens and courtyards. Its beauty and history never fail to impress.
In the afternoon, we’ll head up to the Albaicín hill for dinner and one of Granada’s most unforgettable views — the Alhambra glowing at sunset. On the way, we’ll stop at viewpoints like San Nicolás and wander through the lively Calderería neighborhood, filled with tea houses and local atmosphere.
Day 5: Nerja
We’ll start our day with a visit to Nerja, widely considered one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalucia. Here, we will not only enjoy brathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea from the Balcón de Europa viewpoint, but also have the opportunity to explore the Nerja Caves. Stretching for almost 5 kilometres, these caverns were frequented by human groups during prehistory, from approximately 35,000 years ago to 3,600 years ago.
Day 6: Málaga
We’ll begin our day in Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol. Visitors can explore the historic city center, where Roman, Moorish, and Renaissance influences blend seamlessly, from the Alcazaba fortress to the Roman Theatre. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Picasso Museum, celebrating the city’s most famous son, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor from the Gibralfaro Castle. Málaga perfectly combines cultural heritage and Mediterranean vibe.
Day 7: Ronda
Today’s destination is the hill town of Ronda, home to Spain’s oldest bullring and its most breathtaking gorge. On our way, we’ll pause to marvel at the 5,000-year-old megalithic Dolmen of Menga — the largest in Europe.
After arriving in Ronda, you’ll have free time to explore the city’s Moorish and Mercadillo quarters linked together by the famous gravity-defying stone bridge. We’ll cap our day together with an intimate guitar concert before you’re set free to complete your quintessential Andalusian evening with dinner on your own.
Day 8: Seville
This morning we’ll stop at a local bull farm to learn about Spain’s most fascinating — and controversial — cultural pastime and enjoy a country lunch together before driving on to the flamboyant and atmospheric city of Seville. After settling into our neighborhood hotel, our local guide will introduce us to the Barrio Santa Cruz and the world’s largest Gothic cathedral.
Tonight, you’ll have time to do more exploring on your own or take in a performance of sultry, swirling flamenco.
Day 9: Seville
We’ll start today with a tour of the beautifully Moorish-style Alcázar palace, the Sevilla home of the Spanish royal family for the past 500 years. Afterward, you’re free to walk in the footsteps of Carmen and Don Juan, linger in Sevilla’s cosy squares, or stroll along the romantic Guadalquivir River.
This evening we’ll share travel memories and toast new friends at our final dinner together, capped off with a carriage ride through the streets of Sevilla.
Day 10: Tour Over After Breakfast
Breakfast is provided, but there are no group activities today. Sevilla’s airport, with easy connections throughout Europe. Alternately, you can hop on a high speed train to Madrid to continue your Iberian adventures on your own.
Travel with Purpose – Responsible Experiences
For us, travel today means more than ticking boxes on a map. It’s about creating experiences that respect local communities. That’s why our tours are designed with sustainability at their core — supporting local businesses, reducing environmental impact, and encouraging cultural exchange.
Whether you’re travelling as a couple, or in a group, our team ensures each detail is handled with care. With years of international experience and MSc degrees from the University of York, our staff combines academic knowledge with practical insight. This allows us to anticipate travellers’ needs and deliver service at the highest professional standards.
From accommodation and transport to exclusive guided visits, every aspect is coordinated by our dedicated team. And because we’re based in southern Spain, we’re always close — ready to adapt plans if weather or timing change. That’s the value of working with a local Destination Management Company (DMC): flexibility, trust, and immediate support when it matters most.
Rick Steves’ Andalucia with ATT
Andalucia is defined by its people and culture. At Andalusia Travel Tour, we connect travellers to local life through immersive, inspiring journeys. Fast communication, licensed guides, and personalised service ensure a seamless experience.
Whether following Rick Steves’ Andalucia footsteps or forging your own path, Southern Spain promises to surprise and inspire — and with the right local partner, every moment is authentic and effortless.
