Spain Summer Getaways: Spend a Perfect Weekend in Nerja and Frigiliana
As an American, when I first think about visiting Spain, I primarily think of some of the country’s most popular tourist cities. Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Seville, and Granada were all places I made sure to visit on my first trip to Spain.
However, after spending 1 year teaching English in Spain, I have had the opportunity to branch out and visit some of the country’s other gems. This summer, I was looking to spend a weekend near the beach, and after hearing about Nerja and Frigiliana from a few Spanish friends, I knew I had to plan a trip!
If you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway on the Mediterranean away from some of the country’s more crowded tourist hubs, then be sure to put Nerja and Frigiliana on your Spain itinerary!
Things to do in Nerja
During my weekend in Nerja and Frigiliana, I chose to stay in an Airbnb in Nerja. The city itself is a popular resort town and is much larger than Frigiliana, with a greater variety of places to eat and drink. Though I found Frigiliana to be more quaint and charming, I’m glad I stayed in Nerja and was closer to the beach and the rest of the action in town!
Hit the Beach
What relaxing summer getaway is complete without a trip to the beach? From popular beaches complete with boardwalks and restaurants to smaller, more secluded coves, you are bound to discover the perfect spot to soak up some rays!
Nerja Cave
Aside from its beautiful beaches, Nerja is most well known for the Cuevas de Nerja, a cave and series of caverns originally discovered in 1959. The Cuevas de Nerja are home to Neolithic cave paintings and the world’s largest stalagmite. A general tour lasts for 45 minutes and allows visitors to explore several of the cave’s caverns. You can learn more about hours, ticket prices, and tour options here. I definitely enjoyed my visit to the cave, although I must admit I preferred my cave visit in Slovenia!
The Balcony of Europe
For the best panoramic views in town, you’ll want to head to the Balcony of Europe, or Balcón de Europa. This area, formerly a fortress, is now a boardwalk and lookout spot perfect for taking in incredible views of the Mediterranean and the Sierra de Tejeda mountains.
Shop ’til you Drop
If you enjoy shopping, you’re in luck! This popular resort town has plenty of shops located around the downtown area. From touristy souvenir stalls to clothing stores and local markets, there is quite the selection available to visitors. My personal favorite? This gorgeous shop filled with Moroccan-inspired lamps and ceramics!
Take a Hike
Unfortunately, I didn’t find time to head on a hike during my weekend in Nerja. That being said, there are plenty of great hiking spots worth checking out nearby. Nerja is located right next to the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park, where you’ll find quite a few trail options to suit your wildest wilderness desires!
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
What is a great vacation spot without some cool spots to eat and drink? Nerja has so many great bars and restaurants it can be difficult to choose where to go! I had so much fun bouncing around different bars and restaurants in Nerja, searching for the perfect rooftop terrace and mojito. You won’t have any trouble finding a hip, trendy, and delicious place to eat in this coastal town.
Adventure Sports
Looking to add a bit of adventure to your beach holiday? Consider adding an adventure sport to your itinerary. Parasailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, scuba diving, you name it, Nerja’s got it! Personally, I would love to try parasailing or kayaking, and will definitely try to go if I make any future visits to Nerja.
Things to do in Frigiliana
Did you know that Frigiliana has the distinction of being named the “prettiest village in Andalusia” by the Spanish tourism board? I had to see for myself what all the hype was about, and I must admit I found myself quite enamored with this charming pueblo bianco (white village), located just a short drive or bus ride away from Nerja. The village is quite small, so one only needs about half a day to explore the winding backstreets of this mesmerising Moorish town.
Wander the Whitewashed Streets
You won’t have a difficult time finding plenty of quaint streets, decorated doorways, and charming spots in this adorable town. Spend a few hours aimlessly wandering, taking in the beauty of this small town’s historic whitewashed streets. Pro tip: arrive early and beat the tour buses!
Hit the Historic Spots
Frigiliana is filled with historic places like the San Antonio church or Fuente Vieja (old fountain). If you don’t speak any Spanish, be sure to keep Google translate handy and keep an eye out for the tiled plaques which explain some of the history behind Frigiliana’s antique points of interest. I had fun translating what I could with my basic level of Spanish! It’s a great way to practice!
Drinks with a View
One of the things that makes this white village so unique are the incredible views of the Mediterranean you’ll find from this mountainside town. There are several bars and restaurants which offer lovely views of the foothills and sea beyond, so sit back, grab a drink, relax, and enjoy the vista! You’re on vacation, after all!
Take the perfect Instagram
There’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy locations in Frigiliana. I had so much fun walking around town and snapping photos in front of every cute alley, doorway, and flower-filled wall I could find. Check out my Nerja and Frigiliana Instagram story highlights @missadventuresabroad for more inspiration!
Do you think a visit to Nerja or Frigiliana will make it on your Spain itinerary? Or would you rather visit some of the country’s more popular destinations? Let me know in the comments!
Discover all of my Spain posts, or check out some of these popular posts:
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