Excursies en activiteiten in Costa del Sol

Step into Christmas for an afternoon of festive fun on the Costa Del Sol. With the bells ringing, we'll kick make our way to Mijas, the most popular whitewashed village on the coast. Here, you'll enjoy a seasonal treat of artisanal ring-shaped pastries and a festive assortment, paired with a glass of Muscat wine or anise liqueur. It's the perfect start to get into the festive mood. Next, we'll head to Malaga, a city that truly knows how to celebrate Christmas. You'll have some free time to explore the historic heart of the city, with its bustling holiday markets, local artisan stalls, and cosy cafes. Did you know Malaga was one of the first cities in Spain to decorate its streets with Christmas lights? Today, it's famous for its spectacular light displays – and you'll see why next. As evening arrives, it's time for the highlight of the day – the switching on of Malaga's famous Christmas lights. Watch as the streets come alive with colourful displays. It's a magical moment that's sure to leave you feeling Christmassy before we jingle back to the resort.

At Crocodile Park in Torremolinos, you'll discover Europe's largest collection of these prehistoric creatures. From baby crocs to the legendary Big Daddy, you'll come face to face with reptiles who have more in common with dinosaurs than other animals. A great family experience that'll change your perception of crocodiles.

Explore the wonders of the aquatic world in this fantastic marine sanctuary and aquarium. You'll get up close and personal with sharks, otters and a dazzling array of other marine life on this ticket-only excursion. There's also feeding demonstrations, talks and special presentations, face-painting for the little ones and mini-golf.

Journey through time and culture as you uncover the fascinating heritage of Al-Andalus in Malaga. Visit the Alcazaba, a formidable fortress standing as a testament to the military prowess of the Arab era. As you explore its imposing walls and strategic design, you'll be transported back to a period of grandeur. Continue the adventure at Malaga Museum, where Al-Andalus' vibrancy is showcased through a collection of ceramics and Moorish calligraphy. Marvel at exhibits merging history and art, delving into the cultural richness of the past. Next, you will stop at a restaurant to enjoy a typical tapa merging Arabic and Mediterranean flavours, washed down with local wine. Then, learn how to write your name in Arabic at a calligraphy workshop, crafted exclusively for National Geographic travellers. Discover the characteristic streets of the historic centre, revealing the urban heritage shaped by Al-Andalus. Admire the decorative tiles and intricate details that bear witness to the fusion of cultures, creating a unique landscape. Wrap up your experience at the colourful Atarazanas Market, its Moorish entrance beckoning you into the sensory overload of colours and aromas. Engage with vendors as you meander through stalls filled with fruits and herbs. To fully immerse yourself in the local experience, take a sip from an Andalusian-style wineskin.

Butterflies are the world's most beautiful and delicate insects. And at the Mariposario de Benalmadena, you'll learn about the many exotic species that fly freely within this custom-built butterfly park and breeding centre.

This ticket-only tour allows you to explore the Costa del Sol's capital on an open-top double-decker. You'll get great panoramic views of the city, and the flexibility to hop on and off whenever you like. What's more, there are headphones providing commentary on everything you see.As the tour is a hop on-hop off ticket, you can jump off at places of interest and continue on another bus later. Check out La Alcazaba fortress and hilltop Gibralfaro castle, both offering superb views over the city. Pop into an old town tapas bar or shop your heart out on Calle Larios. Or visit the cathedral and the acclaimed Picasso Museum. Your ticket is valid for the entire day so you can take everything in as slow or as fast as you like. It also includes entry to the Interactive Music Museum.You can upgrade your ticket to the Malaga Experience, a great-value way to get the most out of your visit. This package includes a boat trip, a guided walking tour and entry into various attractions.

Explore the Benalmadena area with absolute flexibility – from the great vantage point of an open-top bus. This tour ticket is valid for 48 hours, and allows you to explore everything from Benalmadena's renowned marina to the hilltop village of Benalmadena Pueblo. What's more, it includes entry to the famed Mariposario Butterfly Park or or Sealife, depending on the option you choose.Your ticket will take you all around the other local attractions such as the market town of Arroyo de la Miel, La Paloma Park and Benalmadena's award-winning Puerto Marina. The Benalmadena Tour can be joined at any point along the route, including the train station, and is ideal to combine with other attraction tickets such as Selwo Marina.The bus also travels twice a day up to Benalmadena Pueblo, a whitewashed hilltop village. Here you can visit its Colmares Castle, take in the views over the coast and enjoy coffee in the pretty square.

The Taberna Flamenca Pepe Lopez offers traditional gypsy flamenco in a small, cave-like venue in the heart of Torremolinos. Entertaining locals and visitors alike since the mid-60s, it's something of an institution. You'll witness a pulsating and emotionally charged show featuring dancers and musicians.

Enjoy some sun, sea and relaxation on this boat tour along the Costa del Sol. Search for dolphins on a two-hour trip, with great coastal views and a chance to swim at sea.Setting sail from Benalmadena, you can head out into open water, hoping to see dolphins playing or feeding in the distance. Both bottlenose and common varieties call this place home and your knowledgeable captains know just where to head. You'll have plenty of space to top up your tan on the open deck or get some shade indoors. And, if you're sailing during summer, once your captain has found the idyllic spot, you'll be able to jump in the water for a refreshing swim.

Horses are in the blood in Andalusia. You'll be wowed by the incredible horsemanship on display during this late-afternoon equestrian show, with the option to stay out for a renowned Andalusian Night – consisting of a traditional dinner and an authentic flamenco show.

Ronda is a taste of the real Andalusia. Spend the day exploring this historic highland gem on a guided tour that takes in wonderful scenery and cultural heritage – including its world-famous gorge bridge. You'll also visit Casa Don Bosco for a glass of wine and have some free time to explore at your own pace.

The charming old town of Marbella and the upscale opulence of Puerto Banus provide a perfect contrast on this trip. Take half a day to discover them both, with a little help from your guide. Sip a coffee in its famous Orange Tree Square, see the Dali sculptures along the Avenida del Mar, and see the millionaire's playground of Puerto Banus.

There's no better way to mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in their way of life than a trip to the market. On this half-day excursion, you'll visit the Fuengirola market – the largest on the Costa del Sol – and then make the short trip to the whitewashed village of Mijas for some free time exploring its pretty streets.

This tour is a scenery-rich journey through some often-overlooked corners of inland Andalusia. You'll visit historic Antequera, immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of El Torcal and the Guadalhorce lakes, and round off the day at Juanito's orange farm. Sonia, one of our guides, says, ‘You'll pass through miles of stunning, varied and unspoilt scenery. It's a rare chance to try local food and wine in a warm, friendly and welcoming atmosphere.'First up is the UNESCO-listed nature reserve of El Torcal. Here, you can stroll about its gnarled and otherworldly karst rock formations, which date back to the Jurassic age. Next, we'll stop to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Antequera's Moorish fortress and Lovers' Rock – a mountain steeped in local legend. The city has been dubbed the ‘Florence of Andalusia' because of its Renaissance and baroque palaces and churches. Free time to explore the old town is followed by lunch made from locally sourced seasonal ingredients, washed down with regional wine, in a family-run restaurant.In the afternoon, we'll head to the jade-green waters of the Guadalhorce reservoirs. But the best is yet to come, with a visit to the citrus farm of the larger-than-life Juanito. He'll proudly show you around his groves and offer you his tangy fruits. ‘Juanito is a true character who'll give you insights into local farming methods and let you taste his freshly squeezed orange juice and homemade orange cake,' Sonia adds.

The Gaitanes Gorge is the must-see natural attraction in inland Malaga. This deep and steep canyon has a legendary walkway halfway up one of its vertical walls – the Caminito del Rey – which you'll get to trek on this full day tour. After a scenic drive through the country, we'll stop off at a typical village for some free time to wander around its narrow, whitewashed-fringed streets. Then, don your walking boots as we set off on an 8km walk along the recently reopened Caminito del Rey, or King's Walkway.Departing from the pine-fringed reservoirs, you'll trek along a spectacular walkway pinned along the steep gorge walls. Your guide will give you an insight into its geological origins and fascinating historical past. Finally, at the end of the journey, you'll have a well-earned break in El Chorro for the chance to grab a spot of lunch.

A great way to discover the Costa del Sol is by relaxing ferry ride. Hop from Benalmadena to Fuengirola with this handy ferry service, up and down the coastline.

A day of watery fun that appeals to all ages is the name of the game at Aqualand waterpark in Torremolinos. Combine adrenaline-fuelled rides with more laid back attractions and, when you're worn out, refuel in one of the poolside cafes or head to the picnic area. Everyone will love this ticket-only, family-friendly day out.

Considered the most picturesque part of the Costa del Sol coastline, Nerja is a trip that you shouldn't miss out on. On this half-day morning excursion, you'll explore the white village of Frigiliana and the charming town of Nerja to visit the ‘Balcon de Europa'– a stunning coastal viewpoint.

There's more to Granada than the Alhambra, and that's what this tour is all about. You'll visit the Palace of Charles V and explore the Moorish-era Albaicin district. And you'll also get the chance to search for souvenirs in the Alcaiceria bazaar before visiting the Royal Chapel.

Discover the Costa del Sol by land and sea with this fun afternoon outing. Take the comfortable fast ferry from Fuengirola to Benalmadena, then head inland for a visit to Mijas – the coast's most popular whitewashed village. Once there you can shop, explore with free time.To warm up for the main event, you'll journey to Fuengirola and hop on a boat for a coastal cruise to Benalmadena. On docking, you'll board the bus and head up to Mijas in the hills. Once we've arrived, there'll be a glass of local wine and a tapa waiting for you at a nearby bar in the heart of the centre. Afterwards, you'll have free time to explore the town's winding alleys at your own pace. You can shop for typical Andalusian products such as leather goods and ceramics, see the chapel in the rocks or ride the famous donkey-taxis – the kids will love it.

On this full day tour, you'll visit the UNESCO-listed old town of Cordoba in May, when it comes to life during the annual patio competition. You'll see the flower-festooned patios on a guided tour, discover the great mosque and enjoy free time to explore.

From big city to quaint whitewashed village, experience both sides of life in the Costa del Sol. In Malaga, you can shop-till-you-drop, explore the historic old quarter or visit one of the many art museums. A change of pace in Mijas sees you stroll flower-lined streets and enjoy views over the sea.

On this half-day tour, you'll marvel at dramatic scenery and be enchanted by picturesque hilltop villages. The Alpujarras nestles at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and were for years a little-known secret. You'll see Lanjaron, Portugos, Trevelez and Pampaneira, with plenty of free time to explore. Your day begins in Lanjarón, where you can relax with a coffee and take in the stunning panoramic views. As we continue to Pórtugos, you'll have the chance to taste the unique 'Fuente Agria' water, known for its orange hue due to its rich iron and mineral content. Next, we head to Trevélez, famous for its ham drying facilities. Here, you'll get an insider's look at the impressive process and savor some of their renowned cured hams.Finally, we visit Pampaneira, one of Spain's most beautiful villages. With its steep, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and rich Arab history, Pampaneira is a true gem. You'll see traditional looms in action, producing the famous Alpujarran rugs, visit an ancient laundry area, and taste the region's most beloved chocolate.

Sensational Seville is packed with world-class attractions. On this tour of the city, you'll kick off with a panoramic coach tour to the flamboyantly tiled Plaza de España before getting down to some serious sightseeing in the old town. There's a visit to the gargantuan Gothic cathedral – famed for its Giralda belfry – and walking tour of the picture-pretty Santa Cruz district, plus free time.

Cordoba's heyday as a medieval melting pot of cultures has left the city with a collection of historical buildings that form the backdrop of your tour. The mesmerising Mosque-Cathedral, with its multitude of arches and lavishly decorated mihrabs, is the star of this visit. You'll also discover the former Jewish quarter and enjoy free time to poke around the plant-laden patios of the old town.

A day trip to Gibraltar is one of the most popular activities in the Costa del Sol. And there's a reason why. This slice of Britain under the Mediterranean sun is culturally fascinating. You'll enjoy free time to explore the town, whether it's browsing the bargain-laden duty-free shops, venturing into the Rock's tunnels or meeting its Barbary apes, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

From red post boxes to custodian helmets, just about every icon of British culture can be found in Gibraltar. It's like the UK under the sun. But there's one thing they have to themselves, the troops of Barbary apes that roam the Upper Rock. Meet these cheeky monkeys on a Rock tour and enjoy free time to browse the duty-free shops in the old town.

An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes of the Rock, St Michael's Caves and the Main Street. Rosa, one of our local guides, says: ‘Gibraltar is one of the most unexpected culture shocks I've ever encountered. It feels like my native Andalusia, but everything looks British. Wandering around, listening to the locals chat in their cute dialect is always a joy.'The fun kicks off on a high with a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar. Towering 426 metres above the Med, its steep slopes look daunting – but you'll be discovering it from the comfort of a minibus. The first stop is packed-with-monuments Europa Point, a popular spot for taking snaps. At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. On a clear day, you can see all the way across to Africa. Next up is St Michael's Cave. Once home to Neanderthals and used as a war hospital during World War II, they're now an atmospheric concert hall.Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it, whether it's the more obvious red phone and post boxes or the more succinct ones such as arched Georgian door frames. Tuck into a pie or maybe some fish and chips for lunch, before some retail therapy. Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, is famed for its duty-free shops.

An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes, the Rock and Main Street. And to top it off, you'll set sail around the Bay of Gibraltar for the chance to spot dolphins along the coast. Rosa, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Gibraltar's monkeys are the most accommodating wildlife around. Unlike dolphins, you don't have to search for them – they come looking for you, especially if you're holding food.'The fun kicks off with a boat trip in the bay to look out for dolphins. Three species – bottlenose, common and striped – are known to frolic in these waters. Then, back on dry land, head for a guided minibus tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, which juts 426 metres above the Mediterranean. You'll stop at Europa Point, where there are many famous monuments, a mosque and a historic Christian shrine. Plus, you'll also visit the Rock's recently renovated St Michael's Cave, which now hosts an auditorium.At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. There are about 300 monkeys on the Rock. A local legend says that if the monkeys disappear, Gibraltar will stop being British. Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it. Head to Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, for a mooch around its duty-free shops.

Gibraltar's shopping scene is surely unique. With plenty of tax-free goods, unique souvenirs, and vibrant shopping districts, this tour from Costa del Sol gives you roughly five hours to bag a bargain in this sunny slice of Britain.A scattering of Union Jack flags, red phone boxes and arched doorways gives Gibraltar town centre a distinctly British feel. And we'll drop you off in the heart of it for a spot of retail therapy. Pedestrianised Main Street is a great place to pick up everything from clothes to crystals. It has all the British high street chains as well as international brand boutiques. You'll find that electronic goods, spirits and tobacco are much cheaper in Gibraltar, too.Fashionistas will love the cosmopolitan waterfront-complex, Ocean Village, with a host of stylish boutiques, trendy shops, and high-end brands. Or, if you're after souvenirs to take home, a trip to Gibraltar's lively market is a must.