Costa del Sol Travel Guide

The densely populated coast of Andalusia stretches from Almeria to Tarifa and is Europe's favoured, all-year-round holiday destination. Commonly known as the Costa del Sol, it consists of a string of fine sandy beaches, where the average water temperature is a pleasant 64ºF (18ºC). Picturesque towns have abundant tourist amenities, resorts and high-rise hotels; attractions include zoos, bullfights, water parks, casinos and amusement parks such as the renowned Tivoli World.

A huge beach resort itself and the birthplace of Picasso, the energetic city of Malaga is the capital of Andalusia and the gateway to the Costa del Sol. The most popular resort town on the Costa del Sol is Torremolinos, which retains some elements of traditional Spain, although most main streets are now pedestrian thoroughfares filled with souvenir shops and ice-cream parlours. Torremolinos is a popular party resort and is perfect for all kinds of hedonistic fun in the sun.

Marbella is another favourite, though it's a more elegant, upmarket resort and something of a playground for the elite. Those in the Costa del Sol who yearn for some cultural sightseeing should venture to nearby Granada and its iconic Alhambra fortress.

Tourists can also visit the quaint and scenic villages of Nerja and Mijas to experience some authentic local flavour. Ronda offers holidaymakers some respite from the revelry of the resort towns thanks to its beautiful natural scenery and wealth of cultural attractions.

The airport is situated between Malaga and the large resort of Torremolinos on the national road N340, which connects all towns and resorts along the coast. Trains can be caught from the airport into Malaga City and to Fuengirola. Bus services link the coastal towns as well as the inland towns of Ronda and Granada to each other; there's a train between Malaga and Fuengirola, and a train connecting Ronda to Malaga.