Andalusia is renowned for its vibrant and colorful festivals, which take place year-round. No matter when you visit, you'll likely encounter one of the region's exciting events. Renting a car from Malaga Airport gives you the freedom to explore these festive destinations at your own pace, with picturesque routes and events spread across Andalusia. Here’s a calendar of the top festivals and some tips on how to plan your trip.
1. Feria de Sevilla (Seville Fair)
The Seville Fair is one of Spain's most famous festivals, held in April or May. The entire city comes alive with flamenco dancing, traditional costumes, horses, and Andalusian music.
- How to get there: From Malaga Airport, it takes around 2.5 hours to drive to Seville via the A-92 motorway.
- Tip: The city can be crowded during the fair, and parking spaces might be limited. It’s best to reserve parking in advance.
2. Carnival in Cádiz
The Cádiz Carnival is one of the most famous in Spain. The vibrant costumes, music, and street performances attract visitors from all over the world. The carnival takes place in February and lasts for about two weeks.
- How to get there: From Malaga Airport, you can reach Cádiz in around 2.5–3 hours via the AP-7 or A-7 motorways.
- What to bring: Don't forget to bring a costume if you want to fully immerse yourself in this colorful celebration.
- Where to park: Parking in Cádiz's historic center is limited, so it's best to park on the outskirts and walk into town.
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3. Feria de Malaga
The Malaga Fair, held in August, is one of the biggest events in the city. It features parades, traditional dances, bullfights, and plenty of entertainment. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Andalusian culture.
- How to get there: If you rent a car from Malaga Airport, you can reach the city center in just 15–20 minutes.
- Tip: August in Malaga is hot, so it’s best to attend evening events when the temperature is cooler.
4. Romería del Rocío
The Rocío Pilgrimage is one of Spain's largest religious processions, held in May. Pilgrims from across the country travel to the small town of El Rocío to honor the Virgin Mary.
- How to get there: From Malaga, it's about a 3-hour drive to El Rocío via the A-92 and A-49 motorways.
- What to see: The procession is an incredible spectacle, with thousands of people in traditional costumes, on horseback and in carriages.
- Parking: Parking is limited in El Rocío, so it's best to arrive early in the morning.
5. Flamenco Festival in Jerez
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In February or March, the city of Jerez becomes the heart of flamenco. The streets fill with passionate music, offering some of the best flamenco performances in Spain.
- How to get there: Jerez is around 2.5 hours from Malaga Airport by car via the A-92 motorway.
- Where to stay: Jerez is a small town, so parking may be limited during the festival. Make sure to book parking in advance.
Tips for Planning Your Road Trip with a Rental Car
- Book your car early: Festivals tend to attract a lot of tourists, so it’s a good idea to book your car in advance on the SOLO rent a car website. This not only guarantees car availability but can also save you money.
- Plan for traffic: Roads can be busy during major festivals, so it’s a good idea to plan alternate routes.
- Parking: Parking can be a challenge during festivals. Make sure to research parking options near the event location and book ahead where possible.
Traveling through Andalusia during festival season by rental car is the perfect way to experience the region's culture and history. Renting a car from Malaga Airport gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and avoid the limitations of public transportation schedules.
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