Frigiliana Spain: A Day in Andalusia’s Most Beautiful Mountain Town

Tucked in the hillside of the Andalusia Coast is the gorgeous town of Frigiliana. On our last visit to Spain, we traveled from Nerja to Frigiliana several times and were left in awe of its beauty. With its small size, it didn’t take long for us to find the best things to do in Frigiliana! So whether you’re grabbing a tasty afternoon lunch or catching the sunset above town, you’re sure to be impressed by this beautiful Spanish village.

Spain Inspiration

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What Makes Frigiliana Spain So Special?

You can always tell how authentic a European town is by how many old men are hanging out in the main square. Funny enough, when first arriving we counted at least twenty locals enjoying their morning coffee. Even with its local charm, the hidden gem of Frigiliana Andalusia isn’t overrun with tourists.

While there are still plenty of gift shops to get your trinkets it doesn’t have the same feeling as other busy villages in Southern Spain.

Most tourists visiting the Costa del Sol tend to stay closer to the hub of Malaga and don’t bother to venture this far east. We were amazed when we found ourselves on countless beautiful side streets with no one else in sight!

Frigiliana Spain Travel Tips 

Visit: Head to Frigiliana in the late afternoon and stay for sunset over the mountain range. Most day-trippers visit early so there will be fewer people exploring the village at this time.

Bus: If you are staying in Nerja opt for the bus over driving. That way you can enjoy some wine from the city and stop into several tapa spots. 

Time: Allow for at least several hours for your first visit. Frigiliana is small but there is endless history, backstreets, and unique places to explore throughout the town. 

Camera: Make sure to have your camera charged! You’ll want to remember your trip to the most beautiful village in Andalusia.

Tour: There are two 25 minute tours that leave from the main square where the bus drops off. One is a tourist train while the other is an electric tuk-tuk that will cruise through the streets of old town. Both are a great way to see the history of Frigiliana Spain with less walking up the steep hills. 

Wine Tasting at Vinos El Lagar

This quaint village is known internationally for its super sweet wine. Our personal favorite is at the entrance to town just up the street from the bus stop. When you first arrive in town you HAVE to head straight here!

At Vinos El Lagar, you can sample the local spirits and simple tapas such as chorizo and cheese to go with it. If you can believe it, they sell wine and beer for as little as one Euro! Such a great way to get your day started or even as an ending with a sunset view.

Stroll the Streets of Frigiliana

While there are plenty of fun things to do in Frigiliana, one of the best activities is to simply walk the streets of the town. Honestly, you could spend hours getting lost in the maze that is Frigiliana!

You’ll quickly see upon arriving that the village isn’t very big. Yet with each small side street more beautiful than the last, you’ll want to explore every inch of this town. Keep in mind that you will be going up many stairs to truly see Frigiliana.

Hike to the Castle Ruins 

Frigiliana Spain sits high in the mountains, overlooking a gorgeous valley with the Mediterranean Sea sparkling in the distance. As you work your way through old town and climb higher through the backstreets, take the short hike to the top of town.

Here you’ll see the ancient Arabic ruins of the Lizar Castle which was built between the 9th and 11th centuries. It’s such a magical experience being this high up and catching glimpses through the trees and whitewashed houses. Let’s be honest, the views are the main reason why Frigiliana is such an epic place to visit! 

Tapa Hopping in Frigiliana 

As you’re jaunting up and down the hills of Frigiliana Andalusia, you will notice an abundance of delicious-looking restaurants. While we obviously haven’t had a chance to taste them all yet, there is one place that keeps us coming back on every trip. 

Just up one of the main staircases in Frigiliana, you’ll find La Parada Del Zacatin. Take a seat on the rooftop as the local owner prepares you traditional tapas from this region of Spain. While there are fancier places in town, this spot has a great local feel and the owner is extremely welcoming.

→ 40 Popular Spanish Foods & Drinks: Best Tapas, Seafood, and Much More

Sunset in Andalusia

Who’s ready for the best time of day? Definitely make it a point to schedule your visit around golden hour in Frigiliana.

The whole town lights up as the sun sets behind the mountains, making for a romantic evening. This is when the colors of Southern Spain really are out on full display!

Trust us when we say sunset is truly the most amazing time to experience Frigiliana Andalusia. With all the great outdoor bars and restaurants there will be nothing more magical than enjoying some drinks as you admire the views.

Getting from Nerja to Frigiliana Spain

Hopefully, by now you’ve been convinced to stop in and enjoy all the town of Frigiliana has to offer. Most people stay in the neighboring town of Nerja and make the short day trip to Frigiliana. Still, even if you can only come for a couple of hours it’s worth it! 

By Car: From the coastal town of Nerja follow the signs for Frigiliana going towards the mountains. The roads are well marked and as long as you travel inland you’ll run right into it.

By Bus: Simply head to the main bus stop to get from Nerja to Frigiliana. There are multiple buses a day to Frigiliana running every day except Sunday. The ride will only cost you just over 1 euro and takes just 15 minutes.

→ 15 Best Things to do in Nerja Spain: Beaches, Tapas, & More

→ Nerja Spain One Night Tapa Hopping Route

Have any questions about Frigiliana Spain or want to share your own favorite villages in Andalusia? Let us know in the comments below!

Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake

Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar! 
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Where To Stay In Nerja Spain

Ultra Luxury – Hotel Balcon de Europa – Enjoy a stay at the most prestigious and central hotel in all of Nerja! Sitting right on the famous Balcon de Europa, you’ll be blessed with beautiful sea views and close to all the best beaches.

Fun Vacation – MB Boutique Hotel – Located just steps from Torrecilla Beach, this incredible property is just what you need for a relaxing vacation. Enjoy the comforts of Southern Spain from your balcony with all the luxury amenities you love.

Boutique Hotel – La Puerta de Nerja Hostal – This gorgeous hotel in the heart of Nerja will be the perfect place to explore town from. You can even take in the views from the rooftop jacuzzi!

Hostel Stay – Charming Nerja Hostel – Charming Nerja Hostel is within walking distance to the Balcon Europa and has wonderful private rooms and dorms available.

For more places to stay in Nerja Spain you can explore the latest prices here!

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Spain Travel Planning 

 Flights: We always find the best flights using Skyscanner. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly between cities in Spain than driving or taking the train! 

 Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also,  Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget. 

Rental Car: We use Discover Cars to explore when traveling. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic Spain road trip! 

 Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for thousands of activities around Spain. You can book a tour of the Madrid Royal Palace, skip the line and explore the Alhambra de Granada, or even jump on a Tenerife Dolphin cruise! 

 Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.

 Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials! 

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