Reap the benefits of visiting Costa Del Sol
Benefits of traveling to Costa del Sol include its sunny beaches and laid-back Mediterranean way of life. Another massive benefit as a visitor is its connections to a plethora of other cities within Andalusia. This is a perfect opportunity for 2 day or weekend trips that are relatively affordable and VERY much worth it. Bare in mind that 2 days may not be enough to see everything the city has to offer; I would research in advance and plan accordingly.
Let us take Seville as a central focus of this post. Seville is a city you really must visit. I say this because it is on our must-visit list in general; why not visit when it is just a direct train away from Malaga Central Station? I can state with confidence that it's one of the most fulfilling multi-day trips (or weekend getaways) you can have since having recently undertaken the trip myself. In this post. I'd like to walk you through how to get there and tell you why this city captured my heart.
Getting to Seville by Train
The train is a great way to travel without any stress. You can take the Cercanías commuter train to the Maria Zambrano station in Málaga, where you can board the high-speed AVE or alternatively the Avant train to Seville. It takes about three to three and a half hours to get there. I would strongly suggest that you check the ticket procedures of the train service you plan to board and purchase the tickets in advance, in order to guarantee your seat. The station itself is orderly and clean; As an additional perk, it is connected to a mall area that would have anything a person would want while waiting for their departure. In many ways, the station is very much like an airport with its variety of restaurants, clothing stores and car rental companies available. The security check is also quite similar to a typical trip through the airport, as you have to go through a metal detector while your luggage gets checked through an x-ray machine.
Getting to Seville by Bus
The most economical way to get to Seville is via bus, which leaves from Málaga several times a day. Although the trip takes roughly four hours, it is still rather feasible if money is limited. I can assure you that you will nevertheless get a taste of picturesque Spain, notably passing through the town of Ardales, home of the Cave of Ardales and nearby the Bobastro Ruins. Those interested in hiking and history are lucky; Caminito del Rey, a steep path pinned along the El Chorro gorge, is in the area as well!
While we are on the topic of busses, they are a very efficient way of getting around Seville. There are two travel cards I recommend: the Tarjeta multiviaje and Tarjeta turística de 1 o 3 días.
The Multi-Trip card is a convenient and cost-effective method to travel around Seville, as the city is served by an extensive network of public transport. Each trip costs €0.69 (€0.35 with discounts) or €0.76 with transfer (€0.38 with discounts) as of January 2025. You may reload the card with sums ranging from €7 to €50 at kiosks, vending machines, and online. Make sure that they are clearly signed with a TUSSAM Bonobus sign, as this is a telltale sign of whether cards can be purchased or recharged. When purchasing, a €1.50 refundable deposit is required (€2 for special edition cards), which will be refunded when the card is returned.
An alternative is the 1 or 3 day tourist card that can be purchased at 3 service points in Seville: Prado San Sebastián, Plaza Ponce de León and at Avda. Andalucía, 11. (You can also buy the Multi Trip Card at these locations) They can be recharged on the Tussam website, fully online, which is a major benefit. Expect to have the option of loading either €5 or €10, with a minimum recharge amount of €7 and a maximum of €50. When purchasing this card you must pay €1.50 as a deposit. Do not worry, that amount will be refunded when you return the card at the aforementioned TUSSAM Service Points.
Why Seville?
Seville is a cultural gem that brims with history and charm. It has a rich history and mixture of Jewish-Roman-Christian-Islamic influences, which for me makes it one of the most visually and culturally appealing places that I have visited in Spain. The Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, is a must-visit. Besides its grandiose presence in the middle of town, the climb up the Giralda Tower rewards you with panoramic views of the whole city. Get your most comfortable running shoes ready though, as you will have to walk up 34 narrow and steep ramps to get to the end goal.
About a 10 minute walk away from Real Alcazar, you will find Plaza de España, one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks. The palace plaza features a stunning mix of Renaissance Revival and Mudéjar styles, complete with intricate tilework and arching bridges spanning a calm canal-way. For those of you with a keen eye and an affinity for Star Wars, you will notice that Plaza de España was featured in Star Wars Episode II - Attack Of The Clones. The walled structure depicts every province in Spain with intricate details of their history, imprinted onto beautifully tiled alcoves. Here, you can travel across of all Spain, all in one place. You will be able to enjoy a calm boat ride, soaking in the sun.
Besides its considerable architectural and cultural significance, the city’s culinary scene is equally captivating. Traditional tapas such as jamón ibérico, salmorejo, and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas) are local favorites. Pair these with Seville’s renowned orange wine for a delightful meal, or alternatively by itself. If you are a foodie, the Triana Market is sure to add an authentic touch to your food adventure. While you are there, you may notice that the neighbourhood differentiates itself from the rest of Seville. It is vibrant and full of life, with a strong affinity for pottery, ceramics and tile making. I strongly advise you to take a stroll in the neighbourhood and get a taste of the creativity trianeros have to offer.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Seville is an experience that left a lasting impression on me, and I believe that it will also leave a remarkable impression on you. From Málaga, the journey is easy, and the reward is immense. As much as it is quite niche to say this, Seville has something to offer to every person that may end up visiting its sun-dappled streets. If visiting in the summer, be wary; temperatures reach into the high 30s and 40s on most days. Bring sunscreen, appropriate clothing and stock up on water.
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