Itinerary tips for 3, 5 and 7 days in Costa del Sol

” Find out what to do and see on your next trip to Costa del Sol in Spain with expedia.co.uk/explore. Check out our itineraries for 3, 5 and 7 days!

Ah, Costa del Sol-just the name of it conjures up images of heavenly stretches of sun-soaked coastlines. But even your most dreamy thoughts of this coastal destination may not do it justice.

Plan a holiday here and experience the allure of Costa del Sol for yourself, from the seaside cliffs and the sandy stretches to the Mediterranean vistas and ancient ruins. Whether you can only stay for a few days or an entire week on your Costa del Sol holiday, follow our itinerary to ensure you fully indulge in this seaside region’s charm.

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3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fuengirola

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If you only have one day to revel in the charisma of Costa del Sol, make it count. Venture to Fuengirola, where you’ll find 7 km of beaches and one of the longest promenades on the Spanish coast.

Visit Sohail Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the Phoenician and Roman civilizations. The iconic castle sits on a hill overlooking the Sierra de Mijas.

Admire the white-washed architecture of Plaza de la Constitucion, and dine with a view of the dreamy Mediterranean coastline. If you’re visiting during the summer, watch for flamenco dancers in the plaza.

You won’t get the full Fuengirola experience without putting your toes in the sea. Spend your siesta on any the Costa del Sol beaches between El Ejido in the west and Torreblanca in the east.

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Day 2: Málaga

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Follow in the footsteps of Pablo Picasso in the city of Málaga, the artist’s birthplace. As the capitol of Costa del Sol, this vibrant city celebrates art, culture, and history.

Tour the Picasso Birthplace Museum, or Casa Natal, in the Plaza de la Merced to see artefacts from the painter’s life. For more Cubism, make your way to the nearby Museo Picasso in the Palacio de Buenavista, one of the best things to do in Málaga.

Indulge in the region’s history at the Alcazaba of Málaga, a citadel that dates back to the early 11th century. At the entrance, you’ll find the ruins of the 1st century El Teatro Romano, the oldest monument in the city. For more information about the remnants, head to the visitor centre, Centro de Interpretacion.

Stay after dark for a taste of the Málaga nightlife. Begin your night out at the cocktail bars and then head to the clubs around 1 or 2 a.m. The after-hours scene is so strong, you may wind up seeing the sunrise, as most bars stay open until 6 a.m.

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Day 3: Marbella

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See why everyone is talking about Marbella. With idyllic beaches and challenging golf courses, this coastal city is the perfect place to spend your third day in Costa del Sol.

See and be seen along the shores of La Fontanilla Beach. Bask under a beach umbrella and take a stroll through the shops around the promenade to get a feel for this urban beach scene.

If hitting the greens is a priority on your holiday, schedule tee time at one of several golf courses in the area. Santa Clara Golf Marbella, Santa Maria Golf Club, and Marbella Golf Country Club are just a few of the local fairways.

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5-Day Itinerary

Day 4: Sierra De Las Nieves

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After indulging in the lively fervour of Málaga and Marbella, treat yourself to some peace and quiet in the Sierra De Las Nieves. Just north of Costa del Sol, this natural park invites you to explore the region’s untouched habitat.

Tap into your sense of adventure and do a little caving. The park has several caves with fascinating rock formations, including Cueva de la Tinaja.

Check out the indigenous flora, from wild olive trees to juniper. While you’re exploring, look for the ice pits, or wells, which capture snow during the winter.

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Day 5: Ronda

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Head to Ronda to take a step back in time-and then stick around for the wine! This city is steeped in history, from the Arab Baths to Plaza de Toros, but it’s also gaining a reputation for its wine.

Check out the amazing views of El Tajo Gorge when you visit Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), a prominent landmark built in 1793.

Visit Palacio de Mondragón, where King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella lived. The palace was originally built in 1314 and contains both Roman and Moorish tombs.

Make an appointment in advance to tour the nearby wineries. Bodega Descalzos Viejos and Bodega García Hidalgo are great places to start your wine tour.

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7-Day Itinerary

Day 6: Benalmádena

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On your sixth day in Costa del Sol, it’s time to let loose. Bring your kids-or your inner child-to the parks in Benalmádena for some whimsical fun.

Visit the Butterfly Park of Benalmádena, home to over 150 species of the insect. More than 1,500 butterflies flutter around the indoor attraction, creating the most delightful experience.

Spend the rest of the day gallivanting around Tivoli World. Ride the Giant Ferris Wheel, brave the Mansion of Terror, and don’t miss the theatre performances.

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Day 7: Nerja

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After seven days romping around Costa del Sol, you’ve earned the right to escape to the remote stretch of Playa el Cañuelo in Nerja. Once arriving at the cliffs, take the shuttle bus or hike down to the cove, as cars are not permitted.

Bring along your snorkel gear and dip below the water’s surface. When the conditions are calm, the water is so clear you can spot orange coral and countless fish.

If you have time to spare after soaking up this lovely cove, make a stop at the Cuevas de Nerja. These spectacular caves are home to the world’s largest column and the oldest manmade paintings.

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Whether you can visit for only a few days or the entire week, Costa del Sol is sure to impress. Book your flight to Malága and determine where to stay in Costal del Sol to get your holiday started.”