Markets & crafts in Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol - Mariposario Benalmadena butterfly park

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.

Costa del Sol - Gibraltar Shopping

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.

Costa del Sol - Crocodile Park

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.

Costa del Sol - Nat Geo Day Tour: Echoes of Al-Andalus in Malaga

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.

Costa del Sol - Sea Life aquarium in Benalmádena

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.

Costa del Sol - Malaga Sightseeing Bus Ticket

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.

Costa del Sol - Benalmadena Open-top Bus Ticket

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, entry to the famed Mariposario butterfly park is included.

Costa del Sol - Taberna Flamenca Pepe Lopez Ticket

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.

Costa del Sol - Costasol Cruceros Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

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.

Costa del Sol - El Ranchito and Andalusian Night

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.

Costa del Sol - Ronda Tour from Nerja

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.

Costa del Sol - Marbella and Golden Mile Tour with Puerto Banus Visit

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.

Costa del Sol - Fuengirola Market & Mijas Tour

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.

Costa del Sol - Andalusia Tour with El Torcal, Antequera and lunch

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.

Costa del Sol - Caminito del Rey Tour

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.

Costa del Sol - Ferry between Benalmadena and Fuengirola

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.

Costa del Sol - Aqualand Torremolinos Water Park

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.

Costa del Sol - Guided Tour of La Axarquia with Frigiliana and Nerja

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.

Costa del Sol - Essential Granada Tour

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.

Costa del Sol - Mijas Tour with Boat Trip

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.