A Week in Southern Spain

Alhambra Palace (Granada): a symbol of cultural fusion between Islam and Catholicism and a testament to coexistence. This palace, which was originally built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid Dynasty, is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Generalife Gardens.

Basilica San Juan (Granada): A hidden gem in an otherwise unexceptional area of Granada. This Baroque and ornate church was built in the 18th century, commissioned by the order of St. John of God to honor the saint and house his remains.

Hammam Al Andalusia (Granada): A traditional Arab bath house. You’ll leave with the best exfoliation and back massage you’ve ever had in your entire life. I promise you this is an experience you won’t want to miss out on. You’ll soak in the baths first, which is a truly transporting experience before being called back for your treatment. After your treatment, you can purchase a box of their teas, body oils, and body creams. My favorite was the jasmine scent and that’s what I used for my massage.

San Miguel Viewpoint (Granada): For top-tier views of Granada, beating the boasted-about Mirador San Nicolas. It’s a steep uphill trek through the Albayzin. When you come to the graffitied stairs, cut through that way.

Albayzin (Granada): A historic neighborhood with Moorish charm. Take a walk through these winding cobblestone roads surrounded by white-washed buildings and stop into one of the many shops selling beautiful handmade jewelry, leather backpacks, souvenir journals, oils, and kohl eyeliner.

Stroll the Alcazaba of Malaga: A fortress built in the 11th century during the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus. From the top, you’ll find breathtaking panoramic views of the city and sea.

Visit Max Beach (Malaga): For the best beach and pool party in the Malaga area, you have to make a reservation at Max Beach Club in Mijas. And make sure you order the Wagyu Beef Tacos and hookah. The staff here are so friendly and amazing and ready to ensure you have a great time.

Wander Mijas Pueblo (Malaga): This picturesque whitewashed village will make your Instagram followers green with envy. This area retains a tranquil, traditional feel and charm with its narrow cobblestone streets.

Sip Sangria at the Marina (Malaga): Sip sangria at Gutierrez’s while looking at the yachts and cruise ships.

Feria De Abril (Sevilla): If you’re lucky enough to be in Sevilla for the Feria, you have to go. Prepare by purchasing your triaje de flamenca and purchase a pair of espadrilles while in Spain. This is a cultural celebration you won’t want to miss.

Plaza De Espana (Sevilla): A plaza in the Parque de Maria Luisa in 1928, featuring baroque architecture, statues, and fountains.

El Pimpi (Malaga): Tapas Restaurant in the downtown area or by the Alcazaba. This beautifully decorated restaurant is owned by Antonio Banderas and is the most famous tapas bar in Malaga with a delicious sangria.

Gusto (Malaga): Find Gusto in the downtown area or by the Alcazaba. With the chef hailing from Naples, this is truly authentic Italian in Spain. You know it’s a real Italian pizza when you have to cut it yourself. Try the carbonara pizza or the lasagna.

Restaurante Gutierrez Puerto (Malaga): Stop here for a delicious sangria at the marina, where you’ll find yachts and cruise ships docked. The staff is attentive and the vibes are peaceful and luxe.

BRUNCHit (Malaga): This spot is for the girls. I literally died for the acai bowl. As soon as I took my first bite, the happy hum started.

Fa Touch (Sevilla): Lebanese cuisine in the heart of Seville. The classic hummus and shish taouk were great paired with the Almaza beer.

Moya (Sevilla): another brunch spot paying homage to femininity. The interior is covered in florals, pinks, and neon lighting. I had a simple Nutella croissant and Spanish latte, which is made with condensed milk for a creamier taste.

Comissura (Sevilla): I had the waffle covered in whipped cream, nutella, and seasonal fruit and it was absolutely to die for. For a more savory breakfast, try the floripondio—a sourdough bread topped with poached egg, avocado, cream cheese, and green sprouts.

Maxicookie (Granada): For the best mouthwatering, ooey-gooey filled Oreo cookie you could ever dream of. Make sure you get it warmed up.

Meknes Rahma (Granada): The portion sizes here are large and easily shared between two. My recommendation is to start with the Pakistani tea and order the pincho de pollo (chicken skewers) and cuscus de pollo con Cebolla y miel, which is a meal within itself.

Shelby Brothers Bar (Granada): This one is for Peaky Blinders fans. We saw it as we were driving to our hotel in the taxi and knew we had to stop. I had the Moscow Mule and the nut tray came with some candies in it.