As the gateway to Costa del Sol, Torremolinos is a modern city preserving the great charms of the Andalusian tradition. Here visitors enjoy more than 300 sunny days every year, comfortable temperatures (avg. 19ºC/66ºF) and 7km of beaches along the sparkling Mediterranean. Away from the sea and sand, travellers can explore the old fisherman’s district of “La Carihuela,” or sample the city’s cuisine – including regional favourite Pescalto Frito (fried fish) – in hundreds of restaurants and bars.

<p>While most visitors choose Benalmadena for its glorious beaches, there are plenty of other attractions to keep your family amused. Take a trip out to sea on a boat or a ferry; you can even go whale and dolphin watching. A cable car ride would make a welcome change, or perhaps a visit to Bil Bil Castle. The castle is distinctive with its Arabian architecture, and it hosts concerts as well as art exhibitions. Visit the Sea Life Centre, where you can walk through the transparent tunnels in the underwater park or watch feeding demonstrations; the centre even has a mini golf course. At the end of a relaxing day, Benalmadena becomes a great place for nightlife. Whatever kind of cuisine you are looking for, you are sure to find a restaurant that will suit your family's tastes. </p>

With miles of sandy coastline, it’s no surprise that Fuengirola is a major draw on Spain's Costa del Sol. But the resort town offers than just beaches—a Moorish castle, immersive bio-zoo, amusement parks, and retail zone provide entertainment for the whole family.

In the chic, sun-drenched Costa del Sol town of Marbella, hints of its former Moorish occupation mingle with modern-day resort amenities. Bask on the sands of famous La Fontanilla beach or ricochet among the area's family-oriented water, wildlife and theme parks. Experience the Andalusian charm of the historic quarter, filled with whitewashed buildings, remnants of a ninth-century Arab fortress and fragrant orange trees. End a relaxing day with a dish of the cold almond soup ajoblanco and some of the region's excellent dessert wine.

Positioned at the eastern tip of the Costa del Sol, Nerja boasts nearly 10 miles of powdery beaches featuring activities like water skiing, scuba diving and sailing. Although tourist-oriented, it hasn't been overtaken by high-rises, and its huge promenade delivers panoramic Mediterranean views.

The Costa del Sol juxtaposes gorgeous Mediterranean old towns and inland national parks with developed beach resorts. Famed for being the birthplace of Picasso, Malaga serves as a gateway to family-favourite stops such as Benidorm and Fuengirola.

Unlike many of its coastal neighbours, cultural tradition remains strong in Estepona. With more than 12 miles (20 kilometres) of palm-fringed coastline and a historic old town famously decorated with bright blooms, this harbour town is undoubtedly one of the prettiest on Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Featuring limestone cliffs, cave systems (the largest of which—the Hundidero-Gato complex —has prehistoric origins), and deep gorges, it’s no wonder that Sierra de Grazalema is considered to be one of Spain’s most stunning ecological landscapes. Budding botanists can lose themselves in more than 1,300 different species of flora, while birders will delight in the prospect of seeing communities of Bonelli’s eagles and the endangered Egyptian vulture. More into mammals? The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is also home to genets, mountain goats, and otters

Granada, in Andalusia, is best known for its fascinating Moorish old quarter, the labyrinthine Albaicin, with its secluded inner gardens, and 14th-century palace, the architecturally stunning Alhambra. A Muslim city until it fell to the Christians in 1492, Granada sits at the feet of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The city has a reputation for wild nightlife, partially courtesy of boisterous University of Granada students. Walk the compact city to discover thrilling restaurants, bars and stores.