The best stops on a Costa del Sol road trip in Autumn

The 161 km long coastline of Costa del Sol is an inviting holiday destination any time of the year. But come autumn and the dwindling temperatures make it a place that is not just about the sun, sand, and sangria. The mild fall days bring with them every opportunity to explore Costa del Sol’s hidden gems, linger in its romantic villages, immerse in local food and trends, and dive into some secret yet enchanting coves on the coastline at leisure. Plus, the lack of mass tourism and increased affordability during the months of October-November just makes it easier and more accessible to enjoy some of the top things to do in Costa del Sol. 

In our blog, we have rounded up the must-visit stops and things to do in a Costa del Sol road trip, perfect for 3-5 days itinerary! 

Our top 7 suggested stops in Costa del Sol: 

1. Nerja 

The stunning beauty of the Costa del Sol as viewed from Balcón de Europa in Nerja 

Starting from the easternmost part of the coast, Nerja invites you to experience the varied landscapes and the true Andalusian culture: from dramatic cliffs and pristine coves to UNESCO-protected Cuevas de Nerja and white-washed houses lining romantic cobblestone streets, the town is the ideal starting point for an authentic road trip.  

Stay in the old town centre of Nerja for typical Andalusian village vibes and cafes, and make sure to catch an uninterrupted view of the Mediterranean from the iconic Balcón de Europa! If you want to start testing the Mediterranean waters from right here, then Playa de Cañuelo is a local favourite, with every beach amenity and stunning little coves. In fact, in October the eastern part of Costa del Sol offers the most swimmable waters, so you can give it a go! 

2. Frigiliana 

The winding, white-washed streets of Frigiliana 

From Nerja, in just a 20-minute drive, you can reach the most photographed village in Spain, Frigiliana. This beautiful pueblo blanco (white village) is perfect for an idyllic Instagram post and can be easily explored in a couple of hours. If you do not plan to stay in Nerja, then you can directly head to Frigiliana, wander in its snow-white charm and make a stop in the peaceful hills of Torrox at this pool rental to enjoy some dips in the comfort of a holiday home and also be closer to the next stop! 

3. Málaga 

The historic cathedral of Malaga rising in the middle of Casco Historico of the city 

If Torrox was your pitstop, then it will take approximately 40 minutes to reach the historic and arty capital of the province. As a vibrant city, Málaga has the perfect blend of exploration, fun and relaxation. Its old town centre is home to the impressive Málaga cathedral, with a massive, frescoed dome, the Moorish Alcazaba and the sublime ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre. The city’s art scene finds place at the Picasso Home Museum in Plaza de la Merced and at the eclectic glass structure of Centre Pompidou, the only one outside of France!  

But if you want to escape the beaches and the city altogether, then the 150-year-old garden, La Concepción - Jardín Botánico-Histórico de Málaga or the Arabic baths at Hammam AL Andalus are where ultimate relaxation awaits. Once you have wandered through the gems of the city, head along Calle Larios to the tapas bars and restaurants in the city centre to recharge yourself with exquisite cocktails and sumptuous local delicacies like the Iberian ham or Málaga-style fish, Sardine Espeto. The city also offers options for vegans and vegetarians like Vegetariano El Calafate, whose menu del día deal is hard to miss. However, for a truly gourmet experience, Bodega Bentomiz has a perfectly curated wine tasting with a hearty lunch. 

Stay in Malaga with this vintage apartment with modern amenities in the city centre! 

The Malagueña speciality, Sardine Espeto 

Pit Stops for families! 

For those with little ones, there are many in-between experiences and detours to enjoy like teeing-off at the golf courses of Nueva Andalucia (the valley of golf), amazing parks like Aqualand Torremolinos, Bioparc in Fuengirola and Selwo Animal Park or taking the thrilling cable car to Tivoli World, the biggest theme park in Spain with over 40 attractions!  

Depending on your preference, you can stay in the nearby Benalmádena if you want to conveniently enjoy all the attractions. However, for an exclusive golfing experience, these holiday homes next to golf courses may be a better choice for you. 

4. Mijas 

The lovely, white-washed houses in Mjias 

Nestled in the heart of Malaga province, this quaint village offers a captivating blend of Andalusian allure and the mesmerising Mediterranean coastline. With its white-washed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, winding streets leading to breathtaking vistas, and a unique touch of history, Mijas promises an unforgettable experience.  

Situated at an elevation of 420 meters in the Sierra, Mijas Pueblo is the heart and soul of the village, where the main street of the village, La Calle Malaga, leads to Casa-Museo, the Church of San Sebastián, and the Contemporary Art Center of Mijas. Spain's sole oval-shaped bullring is also in Mijas, nearby which stands the Church of the Immaculada, which has evolved from its Muslim origins. As you venture to the Wall Park, remnants of the Muslim wall and stunning Mediterranean views await. Mijas is also famed for its iconic "Burro-Taxis” and has its own coastal haven, Cala de Mijas. With a 12-kilometer coastline, it features nine stunning beaches, including the renowned Playa de Calahonda and La Cala. 

Want to linger in nostalgia a little longer? Check out these comfy stays in Mijas. 

5. Marbella 

The upscale Puerto Banús lined with high-end yachts  

If up until now tranquillity has seemed to be the theme of the trip, then get ready to seriously step up the party game. Home to iconic beaches, the fourth stop on our trip truly lives up to Costa del Sol’s international reputation of fancy beach clubs, vibrant nightlife, and all-night party scenes. Plus, just 15 minutes from Marbella you can find the exclusive Puerto Banús, where if you are lucky, you can do some celebrity spotting, and splurge on high-end fashion brands and indulge in Michelin star restaurant dining. 

After partying, you can take the next day to sober up in Marbella by taking a walk around its renaissance town centre. Though the coastal part of this famous town has transformed into a modern tourism hotspot, places like the beautiful Plaza de Los Naranjos still has that ancient Andalusian charm.  

One the plus side, Marbella is full of holiday homes that will suit everyone; from those running after work deadlines to the ones with families and couples on a romantic road trip! 

6. La Ronda  

The stunning deep ravine of El Tajo, La Ronda Village 

If you are staying in Marbella, then the striking beauty of Ronda is unmissable. The hillside village is one of the most picturesque Costa del Sol spots divided by the deep gorge of El Tajo de Ronda, where the sharp, 120-metre drop from the Nuevo Puente bridge literally takes the breath away. The hillside village is located about an hour’s drive inland from Marbella. 

7. Estepona 

Happy.Rentals’ luxurious holiday home with a pool and private terrace in Estepona 

Everyone seeks that one last day of rest before the trip ends and that is why our last stop, Estepona, is the perfect end to a memorable trip. The town has a serene historic centre with flower balconies and adorable winding streets, where you will have plenty to eat, drink and even spend in the welcoming local boutiques. For a full-fledged and all-inclusive treat for everyone, the restaurant, Pimienta, serves up vegetarian and vegan food along with the usual Spanish specialities as well as Mediterranean and international cuisine. 

So which stop are you looking forward to the most?  

If you are considering visiting Costa del Sol in Autumn, then these are some of the things you might want to know before you go: 

1. Is October a good time to visit Costa del Sol? 

Yes, October can be a good time to visit Costa del Sol. The weather is generally pleasant, and the summer crowds have started to thin out. It's considered a shoulder season with warm temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. 

2. Is Costa del Sol busy in October? 

Costa del Sol can still be moderately busy in October, especially at the beginning of the month when some tourists are finishing their vacations. However, the crowds tend to decrease as the month progresses. 

3. How warm is Costa del Sol in October? 

In October, the weather in Costa del Sol is generally pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The sea temperature is relatively warm, making it possible to swim, although the water might feel cooler compared to the summer months. 

4. Can you swim in Costa del Sol in October?

Yes, you can generally swim in Costa del Sol in October, as the sea temperatures are still relatively comfortable.