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Many tourists visit Spain to see the historical buildings, while others go to enjoy the culture including the incredible cuisine and nightlife. Whatever you are into, there is something for you in Southern Spain.

The train is a popular transportation mode in the country. Thus, you can take the Alicante to Barcelona train to explore the Northeastern part of the country later. Without further ado, here are five magical places you should consider as you plan your trip to Southern Spain.

The Alhambra, Granada

Granada is the first place you should visit if you are looking for magical sights in Southern Spain, and the Alhambra is the top place to visit there.

It was originally a Moorish fortress before being turned into a royal residence. Different rulers renovated the structures of the Alhambra over the centuries.

Alhambra

Although the buildings started out serving royal purposes, they now have different uses. For example, a former mosque was converted to a church, and the Palacio de Carlos V now houses two museums of relics from the building’s past.

The construction of this majestic structure started in the 13th century and lasted till the 14th century. Some sections were rebuilt in the Renaissance style after some time, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Despite its age, the Alhambra remains a top tourist attraction and accounts for most of Granada’s annual tourists.

Seville

Seville is another city to consider visiting if you are looking for magical places to spend your time in Southern Spain. Known as Andalucia’s capital city, this place has a history to wow just about anyone.

There is an abundance of historical monuments to marvel at, complemented by pleasant weather and friendly locals. Enjoy good food and wine in El Rinconcillo and book a night at one of the historic hotels.

Seville

Meanwhile, the Real Alcazar is one of the most magical spots to visit in Seville. It is a Moorish palace built in 1913 and renovated several times over the centuries. It is one of the best models of Mudejar architecture and remains one of the oldest palaces still in use.

You may find it interesting that the Real Alcazar in Seville was featured in the Game of Thrones series.

Cordoba

A lot of Southern Spain’s history is tied to Moorish culture, and Cordoba was the capital of Moorish Spain, so it is no surprise that this city is considered one of the most magical places in Southern Spain.

Medieval Cordoba was known for its religious tolerance, and you can still see traces of the early Muslims, Christians, and Jews who lived in the city.

Cordoba

Must-see places in Cordoba include the Mezquita-Catedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Callea de las Flores (Alley of the Flowers). You can also visit Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos palace or cross the Guadalquivir river via the historical Roman Bridge.

If you can, time your visit for May so you can experience the Fiesta de Los Patios (Courtyard Festival), which is a magical experience.

Cadiz

Cadiz is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in Western Europe, and you should visit this town to explore its 3,000 years of history.

You can spend your time swimming, surfing, or exploring the long coastlines and seawalls once trodden by the Phoenician sailors who founded the city over three millennia ago. Also, don’t miss tasting delicious seafood and enjoying flamenco dancing with the locals.

Cadiz

Visiting during the Carnival is even more magical. It is the third-biggest celebration of its kind in the world. If you cannot visit during the Carnival, you can still enjoy all that the city has to offer tourists. These include a view of the Atlantic Ocean and visiting historical spots like the San Sebastian Castle, Santa Catalina Castle, Cadiz Cathedral, and Barrio El Populo.

Donana National Park

Nothing screams a magical place than somewhere with species not found in most other places in the world. The existence of endangered animal species is just one of the reasons you should visit.

The Donana National Park is situated at the intersection of the Guadalquivir and the Mediterranean Sea. The environment offers many amazing views, from the beautiful water and stunning dunes to the marshes and plains that house various wildlife.

However, you will feel the real magic of Donana National Park if you are lucky enough to see one of the endangered species like the Spanish Imperial Eagle and the Iberian lynx. The sight of thousands of different African migratory bird species is another experience you are unlikely to forget for years.

You can complete the experience with a visit to one of the historic castles that have been turned into museums.

The places on this list will give you a unique experience you will remember for a long time. 

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