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Southern Spain is home to pretty whitewashed towns, historic buildings with Mudejar architecture, and cobblestone streets, among other things that make it so picturesque. Plaza de España in Seville, the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens in Granada and the Mosque Cathedral in Cordoba are a few of the popular photo spots in Southern Spain. However, there are many other picturesque locations you want to add to your list. If you wonder which are all the Instagrammable spots in Southern Spain, we have you covered!
This region is a photographer’s paradise with its vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and breathtaking views. In this visual tour of Southern Spain, we showcase 24 of the best photo spots, inviting you to discover the beauty and charm of this captivating region through your camera’s lens. It is time to plan a trip to Spain! With so many beautiful places to visit in Andalusia (also known as southern Spain), you will have a trip of a lifetime.
The Most Instagrammable Locations in Southern Spain
1. Alcazaba de Malaga
Malaga is a popular destination in Andalusia and has plenty of Instagrammable places. One of these is the Alcazaba.
Alcazaba de Malaga is one of the main fortresses in the city. This beautiful castle and palace, built between the 11th and 15th centuries, is a fantastic place to take photos.
You can take photos of the manicured and jasmine-scented gardens with flowers and lovely fountains and the palace rooms with an architectural style similar to the Alhambra.
Also, you can walk on the walls and capture amazing panoramic city views.
There is an entry fee of 3,50 euros, but it is free to access on Sunday afternoon.
Location: C/ Alcazabilla, 2, 29012 Málaga
2. Gibralfaro Viewpoint
If you love getting a bird’s eye view of cities, there is one place you can’t miss in Malaga: Mirador de Gibralfaro.
This viewpoint is the most popular in the city, and there’s no doubt why! The views are stunning, and it is even more magical during sunrise or sunset. You can see the Mediterranean Sea, Malaga’s bullring and port.
Although you can visit it for free, accessing Gibralfaro’s viewpoint isn’t suitable for everyone. It is almost at the top of a hill, not far from Gibralfaro Castle.
Avoid walking there in the summer as it gets too warm.
Location: Cam. Gibralfaro, 11, 29016 Málaga
3. Centre Pompidou Malaga
Centre Pompidou Malaga is an art gallery located in Muelle Uno, Malaga’s port. You can find masterpieces from the avant-garde artistic movement and interesting temporary exhibitions inside the museum.
However, it isn’t the art gallery’s interior that attracts photographers, but the exterior, which consists of a cube with red, yellow, blue and green glass. The glass reflects on the floor too.
This building appears on every traveller’s Instagram feed.
Location: Pje. del Dr. Carrillo Casaux, s/n, 29016 Málaga
4. Puente Nuevo
One of the most beautiful bridges in Spain is Puente Nuevo, located in Ronda, a mountainside town near Malaga.
It took over 35 years to complete this impressive bridge and divided the two parts of Ronda, the new and the old town.
You can get amazing views of the bridge from different parts of the town; however, one of the best spots to take photos is the one you can access via Maria Auxiliadora Square. The path is rocky and hilly, so it’s recommended to wear suitable footwear like trainers.
Another fantastic place to take photos and enjoy a glass of local wine is Hotel Don Miguel.
Location: Puente Nuevo, 9-3, 29400 Ronda, Málaga
5. Castillo de Colomares
Not far from Malaga, Castillo de Colomares is a photo spot in the charming town of Benalmadena.
This monument, in the shape of a castle, was dedicated to Christopher Columbus. It used to be a hidden gem but has become popular among photographers.
Despite being small, its architecture is to admire. This masterpiece has Mudejar, Gothic and Byzantine architectural details.
It is in Benalmadena’s old town, a bit hidden and at the top of the town, so you can enjoy amazing coastal views too.
The entry fee is 3 euros and includes a small map that tells you the important parts of this castle.
Location: Finca la Carraca, Ctra. Costa del Sol, s/n, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga
6. Centro histórico de Marbella
There are many fantastic things to do in Marbella, but one of the best is to explore its historic centre.
Marbella Old Town is an unmissable place for road trips around Southern Spain.
The town is well-known for its luxurious shops and port called Puerto Banús, beach clubs and incredible 5-star resorts. However, the historic centre offers a different experience.
The whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets decorated with flower pots are very photogenic.
The most photographed street is Carmen, a lovely street with blue flower pots overlooking the town’s church.
Orange Square is another charming spot in the old town, surrounded by restaurants and bars. You will also find the beautifully decorated town hall there.
Location: Pl. de los Naranjos, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
7. Casa de Pilatos
Although Alcazar of Seville is bigger and has much more to see, Casa de Pilatos is another beautiful palace to add to your Seville itinerary if you have time.
As you enter, you will see a square with a marble fountain in the middle surrounded by small rooms that have impressive Moorish architecture.
Take photos of the tiled walls and small gardens home to pretty flowers and trees.
There is an entry fee to access Casa de Pilatos; however, European citizens can enter for free on Mondays from 3 pm to 7 pm.
Location: Pl. de Pilatos, 1, 41003 Sevilla
8. Plaza de España
There is no visit to Seville without going to the emblematic Plaza de España. It one of the top Seville Instagram spots!
This square is the most beautiful in Spain and probably one of the most photographed too. There are plenty of instagram worthy spots.
It isn’t surprising to see tourists taking pictures in the colourful tiled benches that represent the different Spanish cities.
Whilst Plaza de España is worth visiting, don’t miss out on Maria Luisa Park. It is only a short walk. This spacious park has manicured gardens, beautiful fountains and other features you can also take pictures of.
Location: Av. Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla
9. Setas de Sevilla
If you are after the best views of Seville, Setas de Sevilla is the place to go.
This viewpoint, 10 minutes walk from Seville Cathedral, offers breathtaking city views.
You must buy tickets to access this viewpoint. The ticket prices also vary depending on the time of the day you want to visit it.
For taking incredible pictures, head to Setas de Sevilla at sunset. Once it is dark, the place is lightened up.
Location: Pl. de la Encarnación, s/n, 41003 Sevilla
10. Real Alcázar de Sevilla
Royal Alcazar of Seville is a must-see attraction in Seville Spain. This palace is rich in history, impressive architecture and gardens.
When you walk around this royal palace, you will come across many photo opportunities, and it’s the photographer’s dream location. You can spend hours immersing yourself in the beauty and history of this place.
After your visit, exploring Barrio Santa Cruz, a neighbourhood located next to Alcazar, is worth exploring. It is home to picturesque streets with independent shops and the flamenco museum.
Also, if you love cathedrals, visit Seville Cathedral and its famous tower, called La Giralda.
Location: Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla
11. Mezquita de Cordoba
The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is the most emblematic building in this ancient city.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is rich in history and has stunning architecture. This Spanish landmark is very important because it represents the different cultures and religions in the city.
When it comes to photography, you will love taking pictures inside the Mosque, where the red and beige arches.
Other pretty Instagram worthy spots are the central square surrounded by orange trees and the Roman aqueduct.
Location: C. Cardenal Herrero, 1, 14003 Córdoba
12. Palacio de Viana
Cordoba is famous for its traditional Andalusian courtyards, and the best time to visit them is in May when the Courtyard Festival and Cordoba Fair take place.
However, if you miss this festival or visit Cordoba in winter, you can still see the courtyards by visiting Palacio de Viana.
This palace has over 10 beautiful courtyards and gardens for exploring and taking photos.
Location: Pl. de Don Gome, 2, 14001 Córdoba
13. Calleja de las Flores
Besides the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba and the courtyards, another photo spot worth visiting is Calleja de las Flores. It is one of the most charming streets in the city.
This narrow, whitewashed, cobblestone street with flower pots hanging down the wall is in Cordoba’s Jewish Quarter.
You can also visit the Synagogue and Museo Andalusi within the Jewish Quarter and take stunning pictures.
Location: Calleja de las Flores, 5, 14003 Córdoba
14. Iznajar
If you love taking photos at lesser-known destinations, Iznajar is one to include in your Southern Spain itinerary.
Iznajar is a small town in Cordoba, and it is a great day trip from either Cordoba or Malaga.
This hidden gem is located at the top of a hill and surrounded by one of the biggest reservoirs in Andalusia.
One of the most instagrammable spots in Iznajar is Patio de las Comedias, a beautiful courtyard decorated with flower pots and a fountain in the middle.
However, there are also many viewpoints that offer stunning views and are perfect for photos.
Location: Calle la Villa, n2, 14970 Iznájar, Córdoba
15. Catedral de Cadiz
Cadiz Cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in Cadiz city. This Neoclassical and Baroque building is a popular photo spot.
Most travellers take photos outside the cathedral, but there is no reason not to take a photo inside.
Not far from Cadiz Cathedral, you can also visit Cámara Oscura, a bell tower from which you can contemplate stunning panoramic city views.
Location: Pl. Catedral, s/n, 11005 Cádiz
16. Tarifa
Located in the province of Cadiz, Tarifa is a small coastal town with some of the best beaches in Southern Spain.
It is famous for being the surfers’ paradise because of the wind and sea conditions.
One of the best Instagram spots to take photos in Tarifa is between the “Oceano Atlántico” and “Mar Mediterraneo” signs.
It is the place where the Mediterranean and Atlantic Sea separates. From this point, you can also see Gibraltar and North Africa. Apart from the sign, the town centre also has lovely spots to take photos.
Location: C. Silos, 1, 11380 Tarifa, Cádiz
17. Alcazaba de Almeria
One of the prettiest places in Almeria is its Alcazaba. This fortress-palace is home to lovely gardens, interesting ruins and fantastic views of Almeria.
You can easily spend an hour learning about this place and taking pictures.
Next to the Alcazaba, you can also go to a beautiful tearoom serving delicious Arabic sweets and mint tea. They have a beautiful courtyard and a rooftop terrace with excellent views of the Alcazaba.
Location: C. Almanzor, s/n, 04002 Almería
18. Catedral de Almería
Almeria’s Cathedral is one of the unmissable photo spots in Almeria city centre. This Gothic and Renaissance Catholic Cathedral is to admire. The best place to take photos of the cathedral is the main facade.
The best angle to take photos of the cathedral is from below, so you get the full building and surrounding palm trees.
The cathedral is also lit up in the evening, so you can take morning and evening pictures for a different effect.
Location: Pl. de la Catedral, 8, 04001 Almería
19. Alhambra Palace
Is Granada worth visiting? Absolutely, Granada is a wonderful city, and every Granada itinerary should include the Alhambra Palace. It attracts millions of tourists annually, which isn’t a surprise.
This historical palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the complex is home to several important buildings and stunning gardens.
Its detailed Moorish architecture, marbled statues and fountains, and panoramic city views won’t disappoint you.
You can immerse in history while taking incredible photos and getting spectacular views.
Location: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada
20. Mirador de San Nicolás
If you want a panoramic view of Granada, including The Alhambra Palace, head to Mirador de San Nicolás.
The views are spectacular, and they are even better at sunset. Admire the Alhambra, the city and nearby mountains. It is a special place. However, knowing that it can get crowded at that time is important if you don’t like busy places.
Avoid sunset if you prefer a quieter experience. Whenever you visit it, you can get great shots.
Location: Plaza Mirador de San Nicolás, 2, 18010 Granada
21. Carrera del Darro
Granada is home to many pretty streets, and Carrera del Darro is one of them. Some Spaniards even agree that it is one of the most beautiful streets in Spain.
The cobbled streets, beautiful buildings and the bridge under the Darro River are very picturesque. You can play with angles and take photos in different spots, including on the bridge.
Walking there in the morning or afternoon is lovely, but it has a different atmosphere at night.
Location: Carrera del Darro, 31, 18010 Granada
22. Soportujar
Soportujar isn’t a place that is often mentioned in travel guides, but this village, known as the witches’ village, has become popular in Andalusia.
Located in the region of La Alpujarra, Granada, this town has all superstition-related things, from witches’ statues to dragons.
The most photographed spots include the witches’ broom and Hansel and Gretel’s house, but there are many statues and corners to take photos of.
From Soportujar, you can also view the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Location: Pl. de Abastos, 3-4, 18410 Soportújar, Granada
23. Balcón de Europa
When travelling around Costa del Sol, stopping in Nerja is a must. This coastal town is a 50 minute drive from Malaga but worth visiting.
Balcón de Europa is the best place to take photos in Nerja. This viewpoint offers breathtaking coastal and mountain views, but you might also want to photograph the historic centre of Nerja, home to lovely buildings and doors.
Let’s not forget about the beautiful beaches in Nerja, where you can take amazing shots at sunset.
Last but not least, if you have time, visit the nearby town of Frigiliana, which is only 10 minute drive. You will find many whitewashed streets with turquoise doors and cute independent shops there.
Location: Balcón de Europa, 29780 Nerja, Málaga
24. Estepona Old Town
Estepona is a beautiful coastal town near Malaga. Despite its beaches being incredibly beautiful, the highlight of Estepona is its historic centre.
The old town is home to cobblestone streets surrounded by whitewashed houses with flower pots hanging down the walls.
You can also spot impressive street art in many of its narrow streets. One of the best street murals is “Día de Pesca”, which shows a fisherman trying to catch an anchovy. However, you can even do a street art route.
However, every corner in Estepona’s old town is a good opportunity for a photo.
Location: Av. España, 1, 29680 Estepona, Málaga
All The Best Photo Spots in Southern Spain
Southern Spain is the perfect destination for those who love taking photos, and you will find picturesque locations in every city and village, especially in the “pueblos blancos”, the white villages in Andalusia.
However, if you are looking for the most photographed big cities, choose Seville, Granada and Malaga. You won’t be disappointed.
The best way to discover all these instagrammable places is by car, as some of them are a bit difficult to access. Many rental car places exist in the main airports and train stations across Andalusia.
Overall, the south of Spain is home to some of the most instagrammable places in Spain. But if you wish to explore beyond, head to the beautiful Costa Brava or the Canary Islands, which also have many lovely photo spots for your Instagram feed!
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Cristina Reina
Cristina Reina is the blogger behind My Little World of Travelling, a travel blog that helps travellers discover hidden gem destinations and have more authentic experiences in her hometown, Malaga, and the rest of Spain.
