Costa del Sol, also known as the “Sunshine Coast,” is a gem on Spain’s southern coast, renowned for its golden beaches, sparkling sea, and charming villages. We joined up with a group of friends and had a fantastic week. This itinerary will show you how to travel Spain and Costa del Sol
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Quick Itinerary
1: Malaga to Calahonda
2: Day trip to Nerja to see caves and hang out on the beach
3: Day trip to Marbella for hiking in the mountains and swimming at waterfalls.
4: Day trip to Gibraltar
5: Half a day in Malaga or relax by the pool/sea. In the evening, go out in Marbella
6: Day trip to Ronda or a relaxing day on the beach.
7: Time to go home or to the next destination.
This itinerary is our recommendation, but if you have other interests, it can easily be changed. Much along the Spanish coast is close, so with a rental car, there is a lot to see.
Planning a trip soon? We’ve put together a list of our top travel resources and must-have accessories to ensure you’re all set for your adventure!
– Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com or Hotels.com
– Discover amazing tours on Get Your Guide
– Compare and rent a car for your journey on Discovercars.com
– Find the best prices for buses, trains, and flights on Omio.com
– Secure travel insurance Onshorekare.com
– Check out our favorite travel gear HERE
– Get your eSim for seamless connectivity iRoamly.com
– Get some great deals on tickets to tourist attractions check out Klook.com
– We love the detailed travel guides from Lonely Planet! Use this LINK or code “JESPEREDMAN10” at checkout to get 10% off
Map with day trips from Calahonda
We had our base in Calahonda and it was the perfect spot to do day trips all around Costa del Sol
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Best time to visit Costa del Sol
For beach and sun:
- Travel to Spain in Spring (March-May): Pleasant warm weather with temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Less crowded than summer and lower prices.
- Travel to Spain in Autumn (September-October): Warm water temperatures and sunshine. Ideal for hiking and excursions.
- Travel to Spain in Summer (June-August): Peak season with large crowds and high temperatures, reaching up to 35°C (95°F).
For hiking and sightseeing:
- Spring and autumn: See above.
- Winter (November-February): Mild and comfortable temperatures for hiking and sightseeing. Slightly more rain than the rest of the year.
Fun and recommended tours from Malaga
Additional factors to consider when you travel in Spain:
- Festivals: Costa del Sol hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. Check out the festival calendar if you want to immerse yourself in Spanish culture during your stay.
- Schools: If traveling with children, be aware that it can get crowded during school holidays.
- Prices: Prices are generally higher during peak season (July-August) and winter months (December-January).
How long to stay on the Costa del Sol
It depends on what you want to get out of your trip and your budget. Here are some tips:
Weekend getaway:
A weekend trip to the Costa del Sol is perfect if you want a short break from everyday life and enjoy some sun and sand. You can visit one or two towns and relax on the beach.
One week:
A week gives you time to see more of the Costa del Sol and experience different activities. You can visit Malaga, Marbella, Ronda, and other charming towns. You can also hike in the mountains or play golf.
Two weeks or more:
If you have the time and means, you can stay for two weeks or more and truly enjoy all that the Costa del Sol has to offer. You can rent a car and explore the coast at your own pace. You can also visit nearby countries like Portugal, which we did. See more info below.
For travel clothes, shoes and backpacks we really recommend products from Tropic Feel that have some cool and environmentally friendly travel products:
Where to stay on the Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and apartments to campsites and hostels. The best accommodation for you will depend on your budget, interests, and travel style.
We stayed in Calahonda, a quiet area in Mijas Costa on the Costa del Sol. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing holiday with family or friends. In Calahonda you can find a variety of accommodation, including apartments, villas and many different hotels.
Here are some other tips on the most popular areas to stay on the Costa del Sol:
Malaga: The Costa del Sol’s capital is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There are many museums, galleries, and historical buildings to see in Malaga.
Marbella: Marbella is one of the most exclusive resorts on the Costa del Sol. Here you’ll find luxury hotels, designer shops, and beautiful beaches.
Benalmádena: Benalmádena is a popular tourist resort with a variety of activities and attractions, including Tivoli World amusement park and Selwo Marina dolphinarium.
Fuengirola: Fuengirola is a family-friendly town with a long promenade and a zoo.
Mijas: Mijas is a beautiful mountain village with white houses and narrow streets. There are stunning views of the Costa del Sol from Mijas.
Getting around the Costa del Sol
There are many different ways to get around the Costa del Sol when you in travel in Spain, depending on your budget and preferences.
Rental cars: Renting a car is the most flexible way to get around the Costa del Sol. You can easily drive to different towns and beaches and stop wherever you like. There are many car rental companies at Malaga Airport and in most towns along the coast.
Buses: There is an extensive bus network on the Costa del Sol. Buses run regularly between most towns and villages. It’s a cheap and convenient way to get around, but it can take a bit longer than driving.
Click HERE to book a bus in Spain
Train: There is a train line that runs between Malaga and Fuengirola. The train is a good option if you want to travel quickly and comfortably between these two cities.
Click HERE to book a train in Spain
Taxi: Taxis are available in all towns and villages on the Costa del Sol. It’s a convenient way to get around, but it can be expensive.
Bikes: There are many bike rental companies on the Costa del Sol. Cycling is a great way to see the area and get some exercise. There are many bike paths along the coast.
Walking: It’s easy to get around many of the smaller towns and villages on the Costa del Sol on foot. It’s a great way to see the area and experience the local atmosphere.
Omio is a great website that gathers all types of transportation tickets and allows you to compare to get the best and cheapest ticket.
Our Costa del Sol Itinerary
A Day-by-Day Guide
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation in Calahonda
Arrive in Malaga and take a taxi to your apartment in Calahonda. Refresh with a dip in the pool and enjoy dinner at Restaurante DaVinci, one of our favorite restaurante in Calahondo.
Day 2: Exploring Nerja’s Charm and Beauty
Rent a car for three days to easily explore southern Spain. Embark on a day trip to Nerja, a charming town approximately 50 km from Malaga. Immerse yourselves in the stunning Cuevas de Nerja caves and marvel at the breathtaking views from the Balcon de Europa. Opt for relaxing beach time, diving, or snorkeling before returning to your accommodation.
Dinner recommendation in Calahonda: Asian Mister Food.
Day 3: Hiking Adventures in Marbella’s Mountains
Take a day trip to Marbella for an invigorating hike in the mountains. Download the AllTrails app to find the perfect hiking trail that suits your preferences. Remember to hike when the sun is not too strong ad bring plenty of water. Chose an easy 4-kilometer hike through olive groves at Sendero Cruz de Juanar near Ojen. Enjoy panoramic views of Marbella and the Mediterranean Sea. Drive along a narrow and winding road with viewpoints offering stunning views of mountain villages and the Mediterranean Sea. Approximately 30 minutes from Ojen, visit Balneario de Tolox and hike to a refreshing waterfall. The hike was about 2.5 kilometers uphill from the parking lot, but it was worth it. Cool off in the refreshing waterfall after the sweaty hike.
Day 4: Conquering Gibraltar’s Rock
Embark on a day trip to Gibraltar, a fascinating British territory. Remember to bring your passports as Gibraltar is a British territory. After crossing the border, savored traditional fish and chips for lunch before embarking on your hike up the Rock. Purchase a £18 nature reserve ticket per person, which included entry to 17 attractions on the Rock. Park at a convenient location and walk to one of the entrance points: Jews Gate, Moorish Castle, Devils Gap, or the Cable Car Top Station. Enter through Jews Gate and challenge yourselves with the toughest hiking trail on Gibraltar. The nearly 4-kilometer trail ascends the back of the Rock and passes highlights like the Mediterranean Steps, O’Hara’s Battery, St Michael’s Cave, Douglas Path, Skywalk, and Moorish Castle. Descend via the Apes Den, ensuring no food was visible as there are many monkeys on the Rock.
Some recommanded tours in Gibraltar
Day 5: Marbella’s Delightful Paella and Vibrant Nightlife
Recommended a morning hike, another half-day excursion (e.g., visiting Malaga), or relaxing by the beach or pool. Head in to Marbella and Indulge in a delectable paella at Restaurante El Cortijo. Cap off the evening with drinks at one of the many bars along the harbor.
Day 6: Soaking Up the Last Rays of Sunshine
Spend the last day soaking up the sun and warmth on the beach near your accommodation. If time permits, consider a final day trip to Ronda, a stunning town worth visiting.
Extending Your Trip
If you have extra time: Extend your trip by visiting Portugal. Check out this guide we wrote on how to travel from Porto to Lisbon in 7 days.
Extra tips to be as prepared as possible for your trip
- Our favorite bags for carry-on travel:
I’m an avid backpack enthusiast, and this one has become my absolute favorite for travel. It’s incredibly spacious and the best part is that it’s carry-on compliant, making it a hassle-free companion for any adventure.
Osprey is my go-to brand for bags, and this one doesn’t disappoint. It doubles as carry-on luggage, has ample storage, feels comfortable on my back, and performs admirably for outdoor hikes.
- eSIM Plans for Travelers to The Spain:
For easy and fast connectivity for your devices in Spain, we recommend an eSIM from iRoamly
- Don’t forget good travel insurance:
Outro
The Costa del Sol is a wonderful destination with something for everyone. With its pleasant climate, beautiful beaches, and charming towns, it is a perfect place for a relaxing vacation or an active trip. In this itinerary, we have given you tips on the best time to visit the Costa del Sol, how long to stay, where to stay, and how to get around. We have also included some resources that can help you plan your trip.
There are many other things to see and do on the Costa del Sol. You can visit historical monuments, hike in the mountains, play golf, try out water sports, or just relax on the beach.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to visit the Costa del Sol. I’m sure you will have a wonderful vacation!
Do you have any questions or would you like more information about anything specific?
Youtube video for inspiration
Check out our travel film from Spain – get inspired for your own adventure when you travel in Spain!
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