A Guide to the Unique Culture of Southern Spain

Cathedral: Seville’s massive cathedral is one of the best representations of Christian/Muslim convergence in Southern Spain. Built on the site of a 12th-century mosque, it is the largest Gothic cathedral and third-largest church in the world. If you are up for a challenge, you can climb to the top of the Giralda, the iconic bell tower and the minaret of the original mosque. Although this requires an ascent of 35 ramps, the view that awaits is well worth it!

Reales Alcázares: This palace is one of the longest occupied royal residences in all of Europe, in use for over 700 years. Known for its mudéjar style—a mix of Islamic and Christian architectural elements—and lush gardens, it is a peaceful refuge from the surrounding city. If you are a Game of Thrones fan, you will particularly enjoy your visit—you will recognize it as the kingdom of Dorne.

Barrio de Santa Cruz: Formerly the city’s Jewish quarter, the white walls, ironwork, and flowers of these tiny streets will transport you back centuries. I love wandering around this neighborhood and getting lost in the maze of shops, cafés, and private homes—and I always make it a point to book a spa treatment at AIRE Ancient Baths while I’m there.

The Alhambra and Generalife: No visit to Spain would be complete without an afternoon at the Alhambra, the country’s most-visited site. Dating back to the 13th century, this massive complex offers sweeping views of the city and a glimpse into Spain’s layered history. As impressive as the palace is, though, one of the best areas is the adjacent Generalife, the former summer palace of the sultans. The vibrant colors, continual breeze, and sweet floral smells make for an unforgettable sensory experience!

Albaicín: My absolute favorite thing to do in Granada is wander around the Albaicín, Granada’s Moorish district. The oldest part of the city, this neighborhood is a labyrinth of alleys filled with whitewashed houses, tapas bars, and Moroccan-style tea shops. Don’t miss the views from the Mirador de San Nicolás or the shopping on Calle de la Calderería Nueva—you will think you are in a Moroccan bazaar.

Hammam Al Ándalus: Reflect on the importance of water in Muslim culture in these stunning Arab baths located at the foot of the Alhambra palace. Enjoy hot and cold pools, therapeutic massages, and a steam room while you relax and reconnect in this tranquil and timeless space.

Mosque-Cathedral: Known by locals as the Mezquita, this present-day cathedral used to be one of the most important mosques in the world. The 16th-century Renaissance church built in its center stands in sharp contrast to the mosque’s striking red and white arches that surround it. Get lost in its immense interior as you take in the patterns of sunlight that dance on the walls.

Jewish Quarter (Judería): Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the flower-filled balconies and wrought-iron window grilles of this medieval neighborhood stand out against the buildings’ white exteriors. If you are lucky enough to visit in May, La Fiesta de los Patios de Córdoba (the Courtyards Festival) is not to be missed—homeowners compete to see who can decorate their courtyard with the most beautiful flower display!

Calleja de las Flores: It is worth joining the crowd on this picturesque street, aptly named Alley of the Flowers. Located within the Jewish Quarter, the tiny square at the end of the alley offers a fantastic view of the bell tower of the Mosque-Cathedral. There is a reason that everyone visits.

Eneko Basque: Award-winning chef Eneko Atxa brings the flavors of Northern Spain to Sevilla in this Michelin-guide restaurant that features food cooked over charcoal and a great selection of local wines.

Bodega Santa Cruz Las Columnas: It’s understandable why this traditional tapas bar is so popular among both tourists and locals—it’s a delicious, affordable, lively locale in the heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood.

Ena Sevilla: This serene terrace restaurant is the ideal spot to escape the summer sun with tapas and an afternoon sangria.

La Telefónica: This celebrated restaurant offers outstanding food, drink, and atmosphere in the heart of the city. From shared dishes to meats to seafood, you can’t go wrong!

Venta El Gallo: For an authentic Andalusian experience, enjoy dinner and a flamenco show inside of this hillside cave in the Sacromonte neighborhood, known as Granada’s gypsy quarter.

Oteiza Coffee: This hidden gem along the Darro River offers unique specialty coffees—try their dirty beet or dark carbon lattes—breakfast bowls and a wide variety of toasts and croissants. I appreciate its hip vibe and creative offerings and make it a point to stop there every time I’m in Granada.

La Esquinita de la Judería: For traditional Cordoban cuisine fused with Mozarabic flavors, this highly acclaimed eatery in the heart of the Jewish Quarter boasts two inviting outdoor spaces—a patio and a terrace—to take full advantage of Spain’s abundant sunshine.

Restaurante Damasco: Both the food and the ambience of this Syrian eatery make it one of my favorite restaurants in Cordoba. Bold flavors, generous portions, and attentive service create an exceptional dining experience from start to finish. Don’t leave without trying the baklava!

Singular: A local friend introduced me to this terrific space several years ago, and I now return every time I visit the city. With a calming interior and enticing selections, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a café con leche and sweet or savory treat.