Travels in Andalusia (a region in Southern Spain) and Lisbon (Portugal), were not high on any of my future plans, but then again most of the places I have ended up were never planned, trust me it’s often the best way to travel.

It just so happened that I was in Amsterdam trying to figure out where to go next, when some of my friends there were heading to Lisbon for the weekend. Lisbon? Sure why not, lets go!

Hardcore adventure in jungles and deserts aside, it’s great now and then to just take it easy and enjoy some more mellow journeys. Andalusia and Lisbon are just that, and I loved it.

You would love it to.

Friendly people, amazing food which is also great value, and some of the best architecture and stunning vistas you could wish for.

So here’s a whole load of photos to give you an idea of what to expect in this charming part of the world.

Backpacking in Andalusia and Lisbon

Visit Andalusia

The featured photo above at the start of the post shows a religious brotherhood in Malaga carrying a float during the holy week (Easter) of Semana Santa.

Below is the Roman bridge leading to the old city of Cordoba.

Inside the ancient Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba.

The Muslims and Christians share this building together.

It’s easy to get lost in the old winding streets of Cordoba, but that’s part of the fun.

Overlooking the Alhambra Palace in Granada. This was first built several hundred years ago by the Moors.

The view across old Granada from the Alhambra Palace.

It is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and very scenic.

Wandering around Granada’s old town.

Inside the Alhambra Palace. It has some impressive architecture.

The Plaza de Espana in Seville, a perfect place to watch the world go by. You can take a chilled out horse and cart ride around the area.

Another religious brotherhood in Malaga during Semana Santa.

There are dozens of these brotherhoods in Malaga, but all of Andalusian cities have their own brotherhoods and processions.

Selling some of Spains famous jamon (ham), which can be found everywhere.

The sun sets on a fortress in Cadiz.

You will find many great sunset moments there.

One of the pleasures of travels in Andalusia is the delicious tapas everywhere in the bars and cafes.

It is also very cheap compared with other areas in Western Europe, with what you see in this picture all coming to around 5 euros.

Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Europe.

It is one of the less visited cities in the region, but is in my opinion one of the best, simply because of the laid back seaside atmosphere and old city charms.

If you like sherry then you will love the charming small city of Jerez nearby Seville, famous for its sherry bodegas.

The sun sets on Tarifa beach, a windsurfing and kitesurfing paradise.

Visit Lisbon

Lisbon is a very cool city to visit.

There are some really good street musicians around there.

.A busker plays near the castle in the centre of Lisbon.

Following the tram tracks that run through many parts of the city.

Sometimes it’s the best way to get un-lost!

Lisbon at night.

You can get a view like this from climbing up near the castle area.

A defence tower that used to guard the harbour. Would make a nice home! Find out what Lisbon is known for.

One of the best places to see is Sintra which you can get to from Lisbon as a day trip.

One of the pleasures in Lisbon is riding the quant old trams around.

Speaking of pleasure Lisbon is also known for its good food.

Sweet tartlets are world famous and originated in Lisbon so be sure to try some.

You will find beautiful churches and cathedrals throughout the whole region.

While you’re in Lisbon why not head down to the Algarve and check out three of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

Visit Andalusia and Lisbon

So hopefully these photos will give you a decent idea of what to expect.

I knew the place was beautiful and relaxing after friends who had been there told me, and indeed it is. Highly recommended.

Backpackingman score 8/10. Ok just kidding, I have no official score system!

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