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

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.

Mijas & Malaga Christmas Lights Tour

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.