Southern Spain embodies all that is typically Spanish...sun-soaked beaches, passionate flamenco dancers, Moorish castles, orange groves, proud matadors and sleepy whitewashed towns. The Costa del Sol is the perfect gateway to this quintessential picture of Spain and offers so much more besides. From the cosmopolitan marinas of Marbella to the top class golf courses of Fuengirola, from the glittering sands of Torremolinos to the lively tapas bars of Nerja, the resorts that make up Spain's 'sunshine coast' offer all ages a fascinating spectrum of sights and activities, both by day and night.

Food & Wine
The south of Spain is the birthplace of tapas. Sometimes called pinchos, tapas are small bar snacks that are usually served as an accompaniment to a glass of sherry, wine or beer. Even the smallest of villages in Andalucia play host to at least one tapas bar where locals head in the evenings to enjoy a drink, a bite to eat and of course a chat with friends. Whet your appetite with jamon serrano, salt-cured ham that's dried out in the mountain air, or tortilla espanola, Spanish omelette made from potato and onions bound with eggs. Other tempting dishes include calamares fritos, deep fried squid rings drizzled with lemon juice, albondigas, meatballs served in a rich tomato sauce, and queso manchego, a mature sheep's cheese. Tapas are normally eaten standing rather than sitting down which adds to the vibrant atmosphere experienced in the bar.

Days & Nights
If you like to relax by day and party by night, you'll love the cheerful exuberance of Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Fuengirola. The streets are lined with an abundance of lively bars, discos and clubs where you can dance the night away, take to the stage in a karaoke contest or laugh at a comedian on the cabaret circuit. In Malaga's old town you'll also find a host of vibrant bars and clubs pumping out the latest sounds which are particularly popular with young Spaniards. In contrast, evenings in Estepona, Nerja and Marbella are more low key. Visitors often prefer to enjoy the buzz of local tapas bars, the romantic allure of waterfront restaurants or the beguiling draw of a flamenco show where you can experience the compelling rhythm of a Spanish guitarist and the flashing moves of a dazzling dancer.

Sights & Sounds
Sightseeing: Malaga
Founded in ancient times by the Phoenicians as a port, Malaga rose to the fore during the 1800's when sweet Malaga wine was Europe's most popular tipple. At the centre of the city stands the 16th-century cathedral. Built on the site of a mosque, it forms a bizarre mix of architectural styles, including Renaissance and Baroque, and is known as ‘La Manquita' or ‘one-armed woman' as lack of funds meant that only one of the two planned towers was completed. Occupied by the Moors until the 15th-century, Malaga still displays much of its Moorish influence, and nowhere more so than around La Alcazaba, a hillside fortress dating back to 1057 which now hosts a fascinating archaeological museum. Nearby is the 14th-century Moorish castle, Castillo de Gibralfaro, with superb panoramic views of the city and the bay below. Without a doubt Pablo Picasso is Malaga's most famous son and for those who wish to sample some artistic culture head to the Museo de Bellas Artes which has a selection of his works. Picasso's birthplace in Plaza Merced is open to the public and also serves as the headquarters of the Picasso Foundation.

Seville
Inland from Malaga is Andalucia's picturesque capital, Seville. The home of flamenco and tapas, this Moorish city is a treasure trove of history and art. Bask in the warm sunshine as you relax in one of the many pavement cafés that flank the orange-tree lined banks of the River Guadalquivir. Stroll through the tranquil grounds that surround the monumental Plaza de Espana and climb to the top of the soaring 12th-century La Giralda bell tower for majestic views over the city. And don't forget Seville cathedral - the largest Gothic church in the world, it plays host to the tomb of the famous explorer Christopher Colombus. The city's Arabic past can be unearthed at the awe-inspiring Alcazar, an exquisite Moorish palace in the very heart of the city.

Granada
During the Arab occupation of Spain, Malaga was the principle port of the Moorish kingdom of Granada. A drive inland takes you to the heart of this wonderful city and its celebrated centrepiece, the breathtaking Alhambra Palace. It's easy to see why locals refer to the Alhambra as the eighth wonder of the world. Set beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it's a delightful blend of lush gardens, shady patios and intricate Moorish stone masonry. Without a doubt, the palace is one of the most sensual pieces of architecture in Spain.

Ronda
Another Spanish gem within easy distance from the Costa del Sol is enigmatic Ronda. Spectacularly located upon a rocky outcrop, the city is famed for its 18th-century bridge which spans a great gorge that separates Ronda in two. The El Mercadillo quarter is home to the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, and as such, Ronda has become the spiritual home of bullfighting.

Cordoba
Once the capital of Islamic Spain, Cordoba is filled with a rich tapestry of monuments. Jews, Muslims and Christians all lived side by side in the city for centuries, leaving behind a culture that is utterly unique. Wander down the narrow winding streets, through charming plazas and past centuries-old inns serving tapas and cold gazpacho soup. Standing at the heart of the city is the world-famous Mezquita, Cordoba's great mosque which dates back 12 centuries. Conquering Christians in the 1500's built a stunning cathedral within the walls of the Mezquita, thereby fusing Arabic and European styles.

Sierra Nevada
From Malaga you can reach the Sierra Nevada, one of the highest ski resorts in Europe. Skiers are treated to spectacular views from the top of the Veleta across to the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlas Mountains of Morocco! Despite the resort's southern situation, its high altitude ensures good snow cover all winter - with the added aid of plenty of snow-making equipment. Close to the city of Granada, the resort boasts Spanish-influenced nightlife, with a cosmopolitan, friendly atmosphere.

Sun & Sand
Averaging 300 days' sunshine a year, it's little wonder that the Costa del Sol is widely acknowledged as the playground of Europe. The coastline is famed for its miles of wide, sandy beaches lapped by the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. Legendary Torremolinos has a 7km stretch of unbroken sandy shoreline while Nerja is known for its pretty coves tucked under cliffs - perfect if you're looking for a little more seclusion. Benalmadina, Fuengirola and Marbella comprise the remaining principal beach resorts, with most offering a wide range of watersports.

Torremolinos

Sun & Sand
Boisterous, full of fun and noisy in high season, Torremolinos stretches for seven kilometres along the coast on either side of a rocky headland. Nothing is very far from a beach of clay-coloured sand, where watersports abound in mid-summer, especially on the main beaches of El Bajondillo and La Carihuela.

Food & Wine
As you'd expect of a busy tourist centre, Torremolinos has a host restaurants catering for every taste. If you would like something slightly more exclusive visit the Carihuela area and try some of the fish specialities and tapas dishes.

The largest and, yes, the most commercialised resort on the Costa del Sol, Torremolinos has been popular with the British for years, attracted by its lively night and beach life. It is a mere 11.5 kilometres west of Malaga.

Local information
You'll never be short of things to do in Torremolinos with every amenity available including an aquapark, golf, tennis and ten-pin bowling! If you fancy venturing further afield the historical cities of Seville, Cordoba and Granada are well worth a visit.

Days & Nights
With hundreds of bars and numerous clubs, the nightlife is partly what attracts so many visitors to Torremolinos. You'll never be lost for somewhere to go when the sun goes down, with the partying non stop until the early hours.

Transfer time: 20 to 45 minutes.

Fuengirola

Sun & Sand
Fuengirola has the longest of beach on the Costa del Sol. Its golden sands stretch for 7km, divided only by an attractive marina where you'll find a variety of watersports on offer including sailing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Behind the beach there's a pleasant promenade, the Paseo Maritimo, that sweeps along the length of the beach and is lined with open-air cafés and bars.

Food & Wine
Whether it's traditional Spanish tapas dishes or bangers and mash that you fancy, Fuengirola has plenty to tempt you. Waterside cafes and restaurants offer an exclusive choice of fresh fish and speciality seafood dishes while British-style pubs and bars serve hearty, home-cooked fare.

West of Malaga lies the well-developed resort of Fuengirola. Home to the Costa del Sol's longest stretch of beach, this lively town also plays host to the best open-air market on the coast. Fuengirola attracts a wide range of people and is particularly popular with couples and families. At the centre of the resort is the picturesque old town - a cluster of winding streets and elegant squares peppered with stylish shops and tapas bars. A walk down the long, palm-lined waterfront promenade leads to numerous cafés and a picturesque harbour flanked by bars, discos and restaurants.

Local information
Away from the high rise promenade, Fuengirola's old town still retains a traditional feel and flavour. Running off the main square, the Plaza de la Constitucion, is a warren-like network of quaint, narrow streets that boasts a host of tapas bars and stylish cafes. The old fisherman's district of Santa Fé bustles with Spanish charm and is overlooked by the hillside Moorish castle of Sohail, from which spectacular vistas of the coastline may be enjoyed. For the family, a mini train runs through the resort for a short, fun tour of Fuengirola town.

Days & Nights
There's plenty to do once the sun goes down over Fuengirola. This lively resort has a wide array of piano and disco bars as well as a number of nightclubs where you can dance the night away.

Transfer time: About 1 hour

Nerja

Sun & Sand
There are several beaches in Nerja - Burriana beach, which is lined by an attractive promenade, is the biggest and most popular. All have sand and pebble swathes, excellent cafés and stunning views. It's easy to spend an entire day hopping from beach to beach, swimming in clear, warm waters and eating delicious paella washed down with icy, soft drinks.

Food & Wine
Try one of the many cafes, bars or intimate restaurants in Nerja. The resort caters for most tastes, from Italian to Chinese, however try to search out the local bars and have some fun experimenting with the Andalucian tapas. Components typically include squid rings, tomato flavoured meatballs, spicy chorizo sausage, Spanish omelette and juicy, stuffed olives - a delicious mix of flavours.

Just 55 kilometres east of Malaga, Nerja offers something a little different to the typical Costa Del Sol resort. Perched on cliffs above the Mediterranean with views across the bay towards the impressive mountains which slope into the calm, azure sea, Nerja has the ambience and style of a lively Spanish town. The Moorish influence becomes apparent as you stroll through the narrow roads lined with whitewashed buildings which abound with interesting shops and restaurants. The beaches are equally enticing with rocky outcrops and sandy and pebbly beaches all competing for space next to the tranquil sea.

Local information
Not far from Nerja lies a gigantic cave system - reputed to be the second largest in Europe. With cathedral-like rooms and wall paintings believed to be 20,000 years old, the caves make for a particularly interesting day out. One of the vast caverns has been converted into an auditorium - if you're lucky enough to be in Nerja during a concert, you'll be witness to an unforgettable occasion. Inland, the quaint village of Frigiliana provides a nice contrast to life on the beach with its traditional whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. If you want to explore further afield, Granada is a spectacular destination with the Alhambra Palace as its impressive focal point.

Days & Nights
Nerja's nightlife is geared to gourmets rather than clubbers. However evenings have a vibrant feel with the streets and cliff top busy with people taking in the relaxed atmosphere. There are a couple of lively discos to be found if you really need to let your hair down.

Transfer time: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Estepona

Sun & Sand
The beach is dark shingly sand and quite narrow.

Food & Wine
There is an excellent choice of eateries in Estepona. Try the trendier cafés and restaurants which circle the harbour area. Alternatively, more traditional tapas restaurants are located in the town centre.

Estepona, the Costa del Sol's most westerly resort, lies more than half way along the coastline to Gibraltar from Malaga airport and is 25 kilometres west of Marbella. You're more likely to pass the time of day over tapas with local people than to run into hordes of tourists, although it is becoming increasingly popular, particularly with golfers. There are sights to see – the clock tower, Los Remedios Church – and chic restaurants and bars around the harbour to sample.

Local information
The old town of Estepona dates back to Roman and Moorish times. Well worth a visit is the clock tower, the Los Remedios church and the Mercado Municipal, a covered fruit, vegetable and fresh fish market. On the outskirts of the town is an unusual asymmetrical bullring which hosts shows and concerts.

Days & Nights
As a town, Estepona remains less influenced by tourists and so most people while away their evenings over a glass of wine and a good meal. However, try the Puerto Deportivo area for a great night out. For some star spotting and some glitz, head up the coast to trendy Puerto Banus and chic Marbella.

Transfer time: About 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

Benalmadena

Sun & Sand
Interspersed with rocky outcrops, Benalmadena has a long, narrow beach made up of sand and shingle - some stretches have benefited from imported sand. The beach is flanked by a waterfront promenade that overlooks the sea. Neighbouring Torremolinos and Fuengirola have large beaches which are definitely worth checking out.

Food & Wine
Absolutely every taste is catered for in Benalmadena. The resort has a host of restaurants serving international cuisine from French creperies to Italian pizzerias, from Spanish tapas bars to British-style pubs. If you want to try some traditional Spanish fare why not order the local stews and soups or choose from a wide range of tapas and salads?

Lively Benalmadena basks in the sun on its excellent sand and shingle beach. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra de Mijas mountains, Benalmadena lies west of Malaga and its attractive waterfront promenade connects into the neighbouring resort of Torremolinos. Benalmadena is home to an elegant marina that's surrounded by a host of cafés and bars that overlook yachts and boats moored up in the harbour. The resort also boasts a weekly market plus a good range of shops and even an amusement park called Tivoli World. By day, you can enjoy beachside watersports or a round of golf at nearby Torrequebrada and by night why not head down to one of the lively discos or salsa bars for an evening of fun and laughter?

Local information
Benalmadena is perfectly positioned if you want to explore some of southern Spain's prettiest and most famous cities. Why not take a trip out to the capital of Andalucia, Seville. The home of flamenco and tapas, Seville is a treasure trove of history and art. The city's immense cathedral is the largest Gothic church in the world and is home to the tomb of Christopher Colombus. The city's Arabic past can be unearthed with a visit to the 'Alcazar', a stunning Moorish palace, and the 12th century 'La Giralda' bell tower. Another Andalucian jewel worth discovering is the magnificent city of Granada. Marvel at the beauty of the Alhambra Palace and wander through the lush Generalife Gardens surrounded by glittering pools and gurgling water channels.

Days & Nights
Benalmadena has plenty to do at night. A number of bars, cafes and pubs line the main coastal road - many of which stage live acts in the evenings such as comedians and cabaret singers. However, most nightlife tends to revolve around the marina where you can dine al fresco in one of the waterside restaurants or perhaps take to the dance floor at a salsa bar or sophisticated nightclub. Benalmadena also boasts a lively area known as the 24 hour square. Unsurprisingly, this part of town is host to numerous disco bars which are open until the early hours. Alternatively, there is a large casino at Torrequebrada where you can try your luck at roulette!

Transfer time: About 1 hour