Seville is practically synonymous with flamenco — its origins in this city began around 200 years ago. Along with its deep Spanish roots, the history of flamenco is also influenced by Jewish, Arab, Castilian and Romani cultures, as you’ll discover on the six flamenco routes throughout Andalucía. Follow the Three-Four Time Route, which alludes to the distinct musical time of flamenco, as it takes you on a twisting path through Triana, Jerez and Cádiz. The route will escort you to various flamenco taverns such as Lagar de Tío Parrilla where legendary figures are celebrated for their cultural contributions.

For almost eight centuries, the Iberian Peninsula was a stunning crossroads where east met west. The Moors referred to their rule as Bilad al-Andalus or the era of Muslim Spain. During this time, disciplines in the arts and sciences flourished, intricate Moorish architecture emerged and the Andalusian region became a cultural hub for the rest of Europe. Let us arrange your journey along one of the “legacy” routes of the Heritage of Al-Andalus — once important routes for communication between Andalucía, Murcia and Portugal. For example, the Route of the Caliphate bridges Córdoba and Granada and you’ll pass by ancient landmarks like the Great Mosque of Córdoba and the medieval ruins of Madinat al-Zahra before traversing through towns in the Subbética mountain range.

A labyrinth of old cattle routes and horse-riding trails contour Andalucía’s hilly landscape. These ancient trails have seen Roman raids, olive oil and cheese trading, and were an integral part to the growth of the Andalusian region. Choose from several official Equestrian Itineraries (EI) that have been approved by Spanish Royal Equestrian Federation and view the wonders of the medieval cities on horseback. Mount your horse and set off on the Gran Vega de Sevilla trail that crosses meadows, mountains and the Guadalquivir River between Seville and Córdoba. You’ll trot past typical Andalusian farmhouses and ancient ruins like the Roman city of Mulva-Munigua.

Naturally, you’ll be drawn to impressive heritage sites such as the illustrious Alhambra in Granada, Córdoba’s ornate mosque, Seville’s Cathedral boasting impressive gothic design and the Giralda bell tower. Equally notable are the lesser-known destinations such as the Renaissance treasures of Ubeda and Baezas in the province of Jaén. Stroll past the whitewashed buildings of Ubeda and visit Plaza de Vázquez de Molina square to witness one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in Spain, and tour Baeza to discover its artistic wonders with clear Italian influences.

Andalucía’s exuberant carnivals offer traditional cultural performances and colorful celebrations that are sure to delight. The Carnival of Cádiz is a nonstop party where music reverberates from all corners of the city. People adorned in brightly colored costumes known as tipos parade through the streets and events take place every day and night. Holy Week celebrations also take place during spring in the cities of Malaga, Córdoba and Granada. Each city has its own variation of Holy Week events but religious processions that take place in each city have occurred for centuries, like the El Rescatado procession on Palm Sunday in Córdoba. Don’t miss Seville’s Fair — vivid pink, red and orange garlands decorate Seville’s narrow streets and tapas, sangria and other Spanish delights are served in canvas tents throughout the city.