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Tour of the white villages of Andalusia

The province of Cadiz has its own white villages route, with 19 stops: Arcos de la Frontera , Bornos , Espera , Villamartín , Algodonales , El Gastor , Olvera , Torre Alháquime , Setenil de las Bodegas , Alcalá del Valle , Prado del Rey , El Bosque , Ubrique , Benaocaz , Villaluenga del Rosario , Grazalema , Zahara de la Sierra , Algar and Puerta Serrano . As well as the whitewashed houses, you can see archaeological sites, castles, little churches and memorable mountain landscapes. Each village has something to make the trip worthwhile: Setenil de las Bodegas has its curious cave houses built into the rocks; the white houses of Grazalema stand out against the green of the Natural Park surrounding it; Arcos de la Frontera has impressive viewing points... Depending on how much time you have, you can adapt the route to suit your interests.

Nature, local cuisine, crafts… Authenticity

Visiting the white villages also brings you to some fabulous scenery. Your trip could take you through the Serranía de Ronda , Los Alcornocales Natural Park or Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park , with ravines you would never expect to find so close to the sea. These areas are great for hiking, and you can spend the night in unique hotels and guest houses, such as a converted windmill. You can find artisanal goods (for example, Ubrique is well known for its leather workshops) and try the local cuisine with dishes made to be enjoyed at leisure, savouring every bite. For instance, the artisanal cheeses , local pastries such as buñuelos, dishes like migas or gazpacho , the traditional mollete bread rolls, or organic wine from Ronda. You can take these tours at any time, but we would recommend spring and autumn, when the temperature is milder. And a final tip for experiencing the white towns: don’t over-plan. Let things happen. Take your time discovering traditions, meeting friendly people, visiting artisan workshops, and reaching the places where everything seems perfect. It’s too good to rush!

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Galicia on the road, spectacular landscapes, in images

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In the footsteps of Miró

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• Showcooking paella & sangria
• Caminito del rey
• Discover Ronda as a local
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• Private Tour

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Visiting the Most Gorgeous White Villages In Spain

Andalusia is full of gorgeous scenery and picturesque villages known as Pueblos Blancos, or White Villages. A bit more off the beaten path than some Spanish destinations, it’s possible to add at least one Pueblo Blanco to your itinerary. I highly recommend making a day of it and visiting several.

The White Villages of Andalusia are named for the white lime walls that the houses in this region have. Originally painted white to help keep buildings cool from the sun, many villages now have bylaws that require the buildings to be painted white. These villages are often on mountain tops and have steep, narrow, and winding roads.

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When I was making up my rough itinerary for a day trip to see Pueblos Blancos, I was spoiled for choice. There are so many wonderful options for villages to visit, each with something that makes them unique.

My itinerary focuses on the most famous of them all, Ronda , as well as Pueblos Blancos that are in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and on the way to Seville. The route I chose was convenient for spending a day exploring and ending up in my intended destination of Seville . You can see how I fit all this into one week in southern Spain here .

I used a rental car for this itinerary which gave me a lot of flexibility. I used Discover Cars to book my car from the Malaga Airport. Discover Cars compare local Spanish companies and international companies so you can find the best deal. Make sure to choose a company with high ratings, in Spain I used Hertz and was happy with the service.

If you are traveling without a rental car, there are tours that leave from Malaga and Seville to see Ronda and the white villages, this tour from Seville is the most similar to this itinerary.

After finishing up hiking the Caminito del Rey , I arrived in Ronda just in time to check in to my guesthouse and walk to the famous arched bridge as the sun was setting. It was a great time to visit and see the Puente Nuevo lit up at night. It also seemed like most of the day tour groups had left by this time so it wasn’t as crowded.

Ronda is a fantastic town to wander around in as there are gorgeous old buildings and winding alleys. It’s compact enough that you can’t get too lost. I highly recommend staying the night in Ronda so you have lots of time to relax and see the village. Ronda is also a great place to start your tour from. I stayed at the fantastic Boabdil Guesthouse and it was easily my favourite place I stayed in Spain. The guesthouse is just outside of the main tourist area so it’s quiet and has the most charming decor and owners.

* Update * When I visited you could book individual rooms in the Boabadil Guesthouse but now it operates as an entire home rental so this would be an affordable option for groups. For a hotel, Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel is a good option for Ronda. The rooms look gorgeous as it is in a restored historic building and there is an option for breakfast, which is important as breakfast is nearly impossible to find in Ronda.

Starting the Pueblos Blancos Roadtrip in Ronda

In the morning, I wandered more of the town and the adorable streets of Ronda. I also wanted to walk down below the bridge a bit to see it from another angle. There are stairs down from the Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora and then dirt paths that take you very close to the edge of the gorge here. There are lots of signs warning you to proceed with caution because these paths are not maintained. It was enjoyable to walk down and view the bridge from below.

If you aren’t up for the hike or you are short on time, you can drive down a road that takes you below the bridge. This drive is honestly not for the faint of heart. The road is narrow, there are tight corners and switchbacks, and the road is very bumpy because it is old cobblestone. There is also the chance you will have to deal with tour buses on this road like we had to. Not to get all starry-eyed about Europe, but this road made me feel like I was leaving behind the tourist-heavy Europe of today and stepping back in time.

Tip:  On Google Maps, it is listed as Ronda Bridge View Point on the Ctra. de los Molinos road off of Calle Prado Nuevo. It really is the best viewpoint of the bridge.

After a leisurely morning spent in Ronda, I knew I needed to pick up the pace if I wanted to see more Pueblos Blancos. I honestly would have been happy just seeing Ronda if that’s all you have time for in your itinerary, it truly is gorgeous and it is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain .

Setenil de las Bodegas

After a morning spent in Malaga province, it was out towards Cádiz province to see the white villages it had to offer. Setenil de las Bodegas was not originally on my itinerary for the day but I decided to add it in because it looked very unique. If you’ve ever seen photos on social media with a street or buildings that looks like it was built under a cliff, this is the place. The main sight here are the buildings that are built into caves on the side of a cliff.

Highly recommend you use a GPS to find the parking lot because it was not where I was expecting it to be. Basically, if you feel like you are driving out of the city, that is where the underground parking is. After driving in circles a bit, we finally found parking. A perk of being lost is I got a great view over the city that I would have missed out on otherwise.

I’ve heard that Setenil de las Bodegas should be avoided in peak tourist season because it gets crazy busy. I must have gotten lucky because I only saw four other tourists when I was there. It was worth the out of the way drive to see Setenil de las Bodegas and the buildings built into the side of the cliff. This hilltop and cave town feels very rural. There are olive tree groves right up to the edges of town. You can see into some of the older and abandoned houses to give you an idea of living conditions.

I was excited about getting to visit Grazalema. Mostly because it is set in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and I was excited to see more mountain scenery. The drive to Grazalema is full of very windy and narrow roads and the scenery was stunning. Set high in the mountains, Grazalema appears all of a sudden after taking a final corner on the narrow mountain road. And it’s gorgeous. Happily, Grazalema had the easiest to find parking of anywhere on this Pueblos Blancos day trip. Near the parking lot, there is a lookout point where you can look out over some farmland. It is extremely rural here, with the farmer below this lookout point farming his land by hand. In the center of the village, there are so many gorgeous buildings that are covered in red geraniums. It’s a good place to grab a lunch break because there are quite a few restaurants with patios.

Zahara de la Sierra and the CA-9104

After finishing up in Grazalema, I chose my next destination to be Zahara de la Sierra. This is mostly because I had heard that the road out of Grazalema, the CA-9104, is one of the most scenic routes in Andalusia. It takes you through more of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Don’t let your GPS take you a faster route, this was a stunning drive. This stunning mountain road is going to make you feel like you should stop every two minutes for photos. The first official stop is the Mirador del Puerto de las Palomas. From this viewpoint, you are at the peak of the road and can see into the valley below with the winding road.

On the way down the mountain road, there is another stop at the Mirador Puerto de los Acebuches. This mirador offers up fantastic views of griffon vultures soaring high above the peaks. The natural park here is home to a large colony of these birds of prey. It is also a viewpoint for the nearby Garganta Verde or Green Gorge, a deep canyon in the park. After this stop, there is a pull off point for the Garganta Verde hike.

After these viewpoints the winding road that takes you down out of the mountains towards Zahara de la Sierra. This village sits above the turquoise Zahara-el Gastor reservoir.

While all of Andalusia was gorgeous to drive through, the CA-9104 route was easily the most stunning. While I didn’t stop in Zahara de la Sierra , it was very steep and twisty to drive through. The village is gorgeous from far away as you approach it. When I was there, there were paragliders going around the castle and it was very picturesque. With more time, would be great to stop and visit the Nasrid Castle that sits above the village.

Is Visiting Pueblos Blancos Worth It?

I felt satisfied with the day I had exploring the Pueblos Blancos. If you have time, there are many villages you can visit or activities such as hiking that you can do. Grazalema especially seems like a hot-spot for hiking and biking. Visiting the Pueblo Blancos was one of the top experiences I had in southern Spain .

After a day of exploring some of Cadiz province’s Pueblos Blancos, it was time to head to Seville. Seville was a good destination after the white villages because it is close to the Sierra de la Grazalema Natural Park. Visiting Ronda and the other Pueblos Blancos really helped balance out visiting urban and rural destinations on this trip. It also felt like a unique experience I could only have in Spain.

Pueblos Blancos Logisitics

Starting Place:  Ronda Final Destination:  Seville You could easily reverse this itinerary to end in Ronda instead. We left Ronda at 12 pm and arrived in Seville at 8:30 pm. Route Length:  165 km, 3 hr 15 minutes driving Villages Visited: Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegas, Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra Where to Sleep

In Ronda, I stayed at a lovely guesthouse that had beautiful rooms and great service. You can check out the Boabdil Guesthouse here . Because it recently switched to be a whole-home rental only, I now recommend Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel for Ronda.

In Seville, I stayed in an apartment that was very convenient for getting to the main sights. You can check out La Casa de San Lorenzo here .

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35 comments.

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I must do this tour, We live in another Spanish mountain village on the road to Granada: Alhama de Granada, well worth a visit, it’s got a mini gorge like Ronda but without the bridge. Also hot springs- hence the name. I’ve been to Ronda, but these other places look lovely. Thanks for an informative post, especially good on the details that really help a visit.

I hope you get a chance to visit this area! I just looked up Alhama de Granada and it looks gorgeous! I had never heard of it before, thanks 🙂

I loved my time in Ronda, so it’s lovely to see there are other villages which are just as beautiful! I’m definitely adding Grazalema to my list 🙂

Ronda is a beautiful town but it does overshadow some of the other villages a bit. Grazalema is so gorgeous and set in such beautiful scenery as well.

I never even knew about this area, when I think of Andalusia I mostly just think about Seville! Thanks for sharing all the extra info, I would love to visit this place!!

Before researching my Spain trip I mostly thought about Seville as well. I hope you get a chance to visit some of these pueblo blancos!

Your photos are absolutely stunning! Thanks for the post. I drove through this area on a road trip about ten years ago. Still beautiful.

Thank you! It definitely is still beautiful 🙂

This looks incredible! Funny story, I actually live in an apartment complex called Andalucia (they changed the name lol) it actually looks similar to the villages! I’d love to visit the original though haha

Must be fate that you should visit Andalucia in Spain 🙂

Spain is on my bucket list, I can’t wait to visit. I’m definitely saving this for later for when i start planning. These places look AMAZING!

Spain was on my bucketlist for so long, I’m so happy I was able to experience Andalusia on my first trip there.

The villages have a fairytale quality about them! Those cliffs in Ronda are breathtaking. The scenery around this whole area looks gorgeous. I’d love to get a chance to visit there!

You’re right, they almost are fairytale like. The scenery in Andalucia is gorgeous, I hope you get a chance to visit!

I have only been to Ronda. There are other small white villages I drive by. The one described here I haven’t heard of. Next time I will go there.souns interesting.

Ronda is definitely the most visited and well known white village. Hope you get a chance to visit some of the lesser known ones 🙂

These photos look like they were pulled from a magazine! So beautiful! I love seeing this side of Spain. It looks so quiet and serene.

Thank you! It was such a peaceful day, hardly saw any other tourists at all.

My Grandma lives near Setenil de las Bodegas and I have still not been there yet. I really need to stop by there on our next trip to see her. I have actually headed to Ronda too, but my pictures are nothing compared to yours. Your post is super informative too, I feel I will be an expert when I get back to Andalusia.

What a beautiful area to live! You should definitely stop by and experience it. Thanks, Ronda was a lot of fun to take photographs of. I hope your next trip to Andalusia is wonderful! There’s so much to see there.

Those white houses in Ronda are absolutely gorgeous, but what’s even more breathtaking in my opinion are the cliffs that the white houses sit on! WOW. I’ve only been to Andalusia once and fell in love with it instantly, so I would love to go back and explore more of the region!

Those cliffs are really neat, it’s sort of crazy that there is a village sitting up there! Andalusia has so much to offer I feel like you could go back to it multiple times and still discover new and amazing sights and experiences!

Such stunning photography. All the villages are magnificent in their own right. I especially love your shot of Grazalema. I’ve not been to this part of Spain and you’ve done a great job introducing me to the Andalusia region. I’ll be going to Spain later this year and will look to add Andalusia to our travel plans. Cheers.

Thank you! Grazalema is such a cute village, I would have loved to explore a bit longer. I would definitely consider adding Andalusia to your itinerary if it can fit nicely because there is so much to offer between the countryside and cities there.

I never knew about this area, but its amazing. I am loving the scenery and all the beauty of the houses. Can’t believe you managed to see so much in just 1 day. actually in just a couple of hours. Amazing!!

I also can’t believe I saw so much in one day. It was really wonderful to travel through this area.

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Oooh Brianna this looks right up my street, gorgeous villages and epic hikes nearby!? Pueblos Blancos are so pretty, and woooow for the Ronda bridge viewpoint! You found such a good spot!

Spain has sooo many gorgeous (but not crazily busy) places like this! The more I read about new areas of Spain, the more I want to go back!!

I wish I had time to hike while in the area. Unfortunately, even if I had scheduled it in, quite a few of the trails are closed during June-October due to fire risk and I was there during October.

I actually expected to encounter a lot more tourists in Spain. It seems like, like most places in Europe, people mostly stick to the cities. Spain is such a great place to drive around and explore though! I very much want to go back, it looks like it’s full of beautiful scenery.

I found the same thing in rural Spain (we were in the mountains in Catalonia this September/October) it was sooooo quiet away from central Barcelona!

Hello, thank you for the post. My husband and I are planning a trip to the area, and your information is very helpful! Would it also be possible for you to provide some more information on parking? We are renting a car for the road trip and would like to know where we can find parking in Grazalema and Setenil de las Bodegas. Thanks!

Oh wonderful, hope you have an amazing time. Parking is challenging to find but possible. In Grazalema I parked just outside the main area and walked around from there, it was quite close, check out https://goo.gl/maps/v3NRrLyYU9VrP1mr6 . For Setenil de las Bodegas I drove around for a while trying to find where the parking lot is so I definitely recommend saving this one to google maps or marking it on your map. It is in a parking building almost on the outside of the town and you do have to pay but its worth not having to loop around the town multiple times https://goo.gl/maps/ktX81pXtrk7ogyzS6

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18 White Villages in Andalucia [Most Beautiful Pueblos Blancos]

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: July 27, 2022  - Last updated: December 16, 2022

A guide to the best white villages in Andalucia, Spain

More often than not the poster boy for Spain Andalucia is a sun-drenched fiesta-loving region that for eight centuries sat on the frontier of two religions: Christianity and Islam. 

Andalucia underwent a cross-fertilization that produced some of the world’s most iconic architecture and cuisine infused with North African spices.  

One of the province’s most remarkable features is its Pueblos Blancos, or white villages, that lie scattered across the hills of Andalucia.

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OVERVIEW: Top White Villages in Andalucia

• Ronda: Dramatic location with incredible views
• Arcos de la Frontera: Fabulous hilltop location with a Parador Hotel
• Frigiliana: A picture postcard white village
• Mijas Pueblo: Close to the Costa del Sol
• Olvera: Not overrun with tourists
• Tarifa, Cadiz: A Mecca for windsports

White Villages in Malaga

1. ronda (malaga).

Regarded as the birthplace of bullfighting, Ronda, with its population of nearly 35,000 inhabitants, is easily the largest of Andalucia’s white villages. 

Ronda’smain attraction is its Puente Nuevo bridge linking the old and new towns 400 feet above a dramatic gorge. 

The absolute joy lies in exploring Ronda’s back streets, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views and a feel for those who call Ronda home. – Check out the guided tour here.

While Ronda may be crowded with Costa del Sol day trippers in the morning and afternoon, they are all gone by the evening, and the locals reclaim the town with a thriving tapas scene.

During the seven hundred years of Moorish rule, Ronda’s hilltop location was a strategic bastion that was one of the last places to be retaken by the Christian armies in 1485.

2. Mijas Pueblo (Malaga)

Not to be confused with the seaside town of Mijas Costa, Misas Pueblo is a pretty white mountainside village famous for its donkey taxis. 

While dating back to the Phoenicians and settled by the Romans, Mijas Pueblo is best known for its Moorish past and white-washed houses.

Again similar to many other white villages, Mijas Pueblo has two parts, the newer section, and the old town, separated by the town’s main square Plaza Virgen de la Peña. 

Because the village is located near some of Costa del Sol’s busiest resorts, it can be overrun with tourists during the summer months. – Check out guided tours f r o m Malaga here.

Don’t let this put you off, though, as the village is big enough to find a secluded corner where you can enjoy views stretching from Benalmadena to Gibraltar. 

On a clear day, you can also make out the Rif Mountains in Morocco.

3. Frigiliana (Malaga)

Located not far from the famous resort town of Nerja, the village of Frigiliana is often referred to as the prettiest village in Spain. 

The town is so picturesque that Coca-Cola recently used it as the setting for one of its commercials. Frigiliana is divided into two sections the new town and the higher-up old Moorish old town. 

The upper section is where you want to explore the narrow winding streets full of nooks and crannies, where you are rewarded with views down to the Mediterranean Sea. 

For a drink or a bite to eat, visit one of the bars/restaurants in the main square, as they all have rooftop terraces with amazing views. 

With Frigiliana only a few miles from Nerja, combine the village with a visit to the Balcon de Europa and the Nerja Caves, one of the most visited attractions in Spain. – Check out the guided tour for Nerja Caves here.

4. Ojén (Malaga)

Despite being located not far from the city of Marbella, Ojén has managed to retain all the charms of a traditional Andalucian white village. 

Tranquil and beautiful, the village was allowed to survive the embargo on the Moors following the Reconquista.

The reason may be more to do with the Moor’s determination to stay and the location 650 feet above the River Real. 

With its cobbled street and numerous fountains, Ojén may not be the prettiest of Andalucia’s Pueblo Blancos. 

Yet, it remains popular with hikers who climb La Concha mountain for the stunning views of Marbella and the Mediterranean coastline 3,000 feet below.

5. Istan (Malaga)

Istan is situated beneath the Sierra Blanca in the Rio Verde valley, about nine miles northwest of Marbella and the Mediterranean coast.Istan is near a large reservoir created by the Presa de la Concepción dam. 

Like other Moorish villages a fair distance inland from the coast, Istan remained untouched, while those closer to the sea were depopulated to stop the Muslims from communicating with their kinsman in Morocco. 

Today Istan is a popular day trip from Marbella but remember to park your car on the outskirts and explore the delights in Istan on foot. 

White Villages in Cádiz

6. setenil de las bodegas (cádiz).

Located just under 100 miles northeast of Cadiz , Setenil de las Bodegas is famous for its white-washed houses built into rock overhangs above the River Guadalporcún. 

Occupied since the Roman invasion in the 1st century AD. Setenil de las Bodegas evolved into a fortified Moorish town that survived multiple Christian sieges before eventually being captured in 1484. 

While visiting Setenil de las Bodegas a side trip to the Roman town of Acinipo is recomended. Acinipo was created for retired veterans of Caesar’s legions following the battle of Munda in 45 BC. 

Meant to be a mop-up action after Pompey’s main forces were defeated in Greece; the battle of Munda was no cakewalk, with tens of thousands of Romans killed on both sides. – Check out guided tours in Cadiz here.

7. Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra is not just one of the most beautiful white villages in Andalucia, but also one that offers a large variety of beautiful landscapes. From a stunning blue lake, to its heavenly location, Zahara has it all.

Zahara is also very close to the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema, a place considered by many one of the best place for hikes in Andalucia.

The town itself is a charming collection of Moorish structures and winding lanes lined with pink bougainvillea that are fun to meander through.

The Castillo de Zahara de la Sierra, the area’s major attraction, is accessible after a 15-minute, moderately steep climb.

However, the amazing view you will see from the Castillo’s tower makes the effort completely worthwhile. In addition, it is highly recommended that you visit the historic center.

8. Arcos de la Frontera (Cádiz)

Often referred to as the gateway to the white villages, Arcos de la Frontera is an easy day trip from Seville. 

The white village of Arcos de la Frontera is located 20 miles east of Jerez in a thrilling hilltop location.

Featuring a swanky Parador hotel in what was once a local magistrates house, the hotel offers spectacular views over the Guadalete River. 

Declared a National Historic and Artistic Monument, the white village of Arcos de la Frontera is one of Andalucia’s most beautiful pueblo Blancos and was for a brief period during the 11th century an independent Berber-run Tarifa. 

The area around Arcos de la Frontera is known for its wine, and there are several wineries you can visit to sample the local Petit Verdot and the indigenous Tintilla de Rota. 

The area is also ideal for outdoor adventure sports, and the nearby Arcos Lake is perfect for bird watchers wanting to catch a glimpse of migrating flamingos or storks.

9. Grazalema (Cádiz)

The pretty mountain village of Grazalema is dominated by a rocky outcrop called “Peñon Grande.” 

The village serves as a base for people wanting to visit the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, famous for being the rainiest area in Spain. 

With limestone peaks over 4,900 feet high and a lush green landscape, a unique microclimate have developed in the Sierra del Pinar close to Grazalema.

While Grazalema is a lively village with a population of around 2,250, the town swells in summer with an influx of visitors eager to go hiking in the Natural Park. 

The steep cobbled streets of the town are immaculate, and the colorful flowers spilling over the balconies of the white-washed houses make for some excellent photos.

10. Vejer de la Frontera (Cádiz)

Surrounded by orchards and orange groves, the town of Vejer de la Frontera sits on a hilltop overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar. 

Vejer de la Frontera’s most known for its Arab-Andalusian architecture, white-washed houses, and narrow winding streets. 

The town’s highlights are an 11th-century medieval castle, its old Jewish quarter, and the ten-foot thick gateway into the city known as the “arch of Segur.” 

Known for breeding fighting bulls, the town makes its living on agriculture and fruit farming.

11. Medina Sidonia (Cádiz)

In the Province of Cadiz , south of the Ruta de Pueblos Blancos, Medina Sidonia is a melting pot of many civilizations dating back to the Phonecians. 

While flourishing under Muslim rule, the name Medina Sidonia refers to the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon. 

Medina Sidonia was also one of Spain’s most important ducal seats in the 15th century, with an Admiral born in the town leading the Spanish Armada against England. 

Picturesque with its medieval walls, a ruined castle, and narrow cobbled streets, there are numerous buildings and places of interest worth seeing. 

Some include the Church of Santa María de la Coronado and the Roman Archeology Museum.

12. Olvera (Cádiz)

Again located in the province of Cadiz, near Seville and Malaga ‘s borders, Olvera is not overrun with tourists like some of Andalucia’s other white villages. 

Rising on the horizon, 2,100 feet above sea level, as you approach the town, it looks like something that belongs in a movie and is a great first impression. 

With a history dating back to the Romans, Olvera was a strategic location during the Reconquista and a town the Christian armies failed to conquer at their first attempt. 

Knowing that it was only a matter of time, the town’s Muslim ruler Ibrahim-ibn-Utmain negotiated its surrender with a concession that the inhabitants could keep their houses and goods. 

Surrounded by more than a million olive trees, Olvera is credited with producing the best olive oil in Andalucia.

13. Ubrique (Cádiz)

As part of the Pueblos Blancos (white towns) in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, Ubrique reminds visitors of that area’s Moorish past. 

Situated at the foot of Cadiz ‘s Sierra de Ubrique mountains, Ubrique is one of the larger white villages with 17,362 inhabitants. 

Ubrique is the birthplace of revered Spanish bullfighter Jesús Janeiro Bazán and is famous throughout Spain for its leather industry. 

Some of the town’s finest examples can be seen in the Ubrique Leather Museum, which occupies the 17th-century Convent of the Capuchins.

14. Tarifa (Cádiz)

Located on the Costa de la Luz at the southernmost end of the Iberian Peninsula, Tarifa is best known for being one of the world’s best destinations for wind sports. 

Before being discovered by windsurfers, the white town attracted tourists to its historic center and the many bars and restaurants serving freshly caught grilled fish. 

Besides exploring Tarifa’s pretty squares and fortress ramparts, the town is one of the best places in Spain to go dolphin watching, with plenty of trips leaving from the port. 

Also nearby is the ancient Roman city of Baelo Claudia, where you can learn about Hispania’s two centuries of Roman rule.

White Villages in Cordoba, Jaen and Granada

15. zuheros (cordoba).

Lying within the boundaries of Cordoba ‘s Sierra Subbetica Natural Park, Zuheros is set in a stunning location at the foot of towering limestone mountains. 

Comprised of traditional Moorish white houses with ochre-colored roofs, Zuheros offers visitors a wealth of things to see and do. – Take a look at guided tours here.

Nearby is the Cueva de Los Murciélagos, an archaeological site of great importance that contains cave paintings dating back thousands of years.

Compliment a visit to the caves by going to the local Archaeological Museum.

16. Baños de la Encina (Jaen)

Located in the Sierra de Andújar Natural Park in the Province of Jaen  Baños de la Encina has a charming town center, and a majestic Moorish castle built by Al-Hakam II  in the 10th centurey. 

Baños de la Encina is a magical place with a rich artistic heritage dating back a thousand years. It is listed as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain for a good reason. 

Plan your visit by stopping at the tourist office on Avenida José Luis Messía, which houses the Torreón del Recuerdo Ethnographic Museum. 

You will be taken on a journey through eight centuries of Baños de la Encina history. – Check out guided tours in Jaen here.

17. Cazorla (Jaén)

Located within the largest and most visited protected natural space in Spain, the Segura and Las Villas National Park, the white village of Cazorla lies in the shade of mountains amongst a colossal sea of olive trees. 

First settled by the Romans who mined silver in the area, the town is constructed around three main squares connected by narrow winding streets. 

During the 700 years of Moorish rule, Cazorla became a stronghold for the Muslims. After a fierce battle in 1235, Cazorla was eventually taken by the Christian armies, who used the location as an outpost for their troops. 

Because of its altitude at 2,700 feet, winter nights can be cold, while summers relieve the surrounding plains’ heat.

Today Cazorla is heavily dependent on tourists and the production of olive oil.

18. Castril (Granada)

Located in the north of Granada province, Castril offers visitors a mixture of history, nature, and tradition. 

First settled by the Romans, who built a camp there, Castril was occupied by the Moors, who built a fortress to protect the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada . – Check out the guided tour for Nasrid here.

Over the years, a fusion of cultures has left its mark on Castril, as is evident in the remains of Arab walls, towers, squares, churches, and the reroofed white-washed houses in the old town. 

Today Castril is popular with hikers who enjoy the area’s popular routes that offer waterfalls, caves, and the feeling of connecting with nature.

What are White Villages in Andalucia?

Many of the villages were once fortresses that marked the dividing line between Moorish and Christian rule. For this reason, a lot of white villages have names that end in “de la Frontera” or “of the frontier.”

While most visitors to Andalucia are drawn to the cities of Granada , Córdoba , and Sevilla, or the beaches of the Costa del Sol, for a more authentic experience, explore the interior along the Ruta de Los Pueblos Blancos.

Known for their dramatic landscapes and narrow winding lanes, these charming white villages were painted white during the Roman occupation to help them stay cool during the long hot summers. 

Characterized by their white-washed walls and red or brown tiled roofs, they also share common attributes such as a lookout point and a central square with a church and town hall.

Today visitors are drawn to the towns for their charm and history, with perhaps the most famous of them all being Ronda. 

This magical place captured the imaginations of Ernest Hemingway and Orson Wells and is one place that should be on your must-see list of places to visit in Andalucia. 

While there are established routes of how best to see the Pueblo Blancos, it is entirely up to you, depending on your travel rhythm. 

If you are limited in time, it is possible to visit several white villages in a day, but it is a more rewarding experience if it can be done over several days.

Get the Best of What Andalucia has to Offer

A grouping of several countries within a country, Andalucia has something to offer everyone and the best villages in Andalucia are so unique.

You can find some of the best castles in Andalucia as well as the best lakes in Andalucia if you want to spice up your holiday.

And this proves it, Andalucia is a paradise just waiting to be explored, not to mention you can attend the best festivals in Andalucia all year long.

This is not all, of course! Have fun and relax at the best golf courses in Andalucia with some of the best courses in Europe, and with the lovely weather in Southern Spain , the courses are a pleasure to play year-round. 

And speaking of golf courses, you can also find some of the best resorts in Andalucia , famous all over the world for the services they offer.

Whether you are looking to rent one of the best villas in Southern Spain or would like to stay in a historic Parador hotel , we recommend putting together a one-week itinerary for your Andalucian vacation .

Short FAQ about the Most Beautiful While Villages in Andalucia

Why are andalucia houses white.

The houses were painted white to help them stay cool during the hot Andalucian summers.

Buildings were whitewashed because of the antibacterial properties of the alkaline whitewash, as well as because a completely whitewashed village appears socially cohesive.

Where is the best place to live in Andalucia Spain?

This is a matter of personal choice, but most people prefer living on or near the Mediterranean coast.

Cordoba, Sevilla, and Granada are the 3 most famous cities in Andalucia, so you can start from here.

Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.

Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!

The 12 Best White Villages in Spain and Where to Find Them!

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date September 7, 2023
• 1 Comment on The 12 Best White Villages in Spain and Where to Find Them!

Spain is known for its classic beauty and its simple elegance. And there is no better place to experience this beautiful simplicity than Spain’s enchanting pueblos blancos, or white villages in Spain.

Like many other countries in Europe, in Spain, you’ll find no shortage of decorative buildings lining cobblestone streets. On each façade, cascades of colorful flowers pour out of window boxes. Even the alleyways are decorated with vibrant vases filled with fragrant flowers.

There is a certain allure to Spain that makes you want to leisurely roam and get lost in the scenic streets.

While even the larger cities in Spain have a relaxed atmosphere, true serenity awaits those who venture into the countryside, where most of the white villages in Spain are located. 

This travel guide to the best white villages in Spain includes charming mountain communities with white walls and steep streets, as well as a few coastal towns and neighborhoods that offer the same magical appeal of the famous pueblos blancos.

Table of Contents

What are Pueblos Blancos? All about the famous white villages in Spain 

The pueblos blancos, or white villages in Spain, are mostly located in the region of Andalusia, which includes 8 provinces and is home to the popular cities of Seville , Granada, and Cordoba .

But you’ll find plenty of pueblos blancos throughout other parts of the country, as well, including the coastal region of Costa Brava, which is an easy road trip from Barcelona . These small hilltop villages are known for their simple white homes and businesses with red or tiled roofs.

Similar to the architecture you’ll find in Morocco , the design and look of the white villages in Spain definitely share the same Moorish influence that shaped North Africa.

Most of the pueblos blancos in Spain have certain characteristics that make them unique compared to other cities or villages in the country.

The pueblos blancos commonly have narrow alleyways, steep streets, stunning lookouts, and pleasant town squares where people gather.

BOOK A GUIDED TOUR TO THE PUEBLOS BLANCOS FROM SEVILLE OR CADIZ .

The most beautiful white villages in Spain

Although a bit off the beaten path and not as visited by tourists as the major cities, Spain’s pueblos blancos, or white villages, offer visitors a romantic, old-world charm that transports you back in time to a more simple, unhurried life.

Here are some of the best white villages in Spain to add to your Spain bucket list or itinerary. 

• Province: Málaga
• Best Tour to Ronda: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos from Seville or Bus Trip to Ronda and Setenil from Malaga

Perched atop the cliffs on both sides of the Tajo Gorge , Ronda is perhaps one of the most popular white villages in Spain.

The Puente Nuevo , or new bridge, is one of the main tourist draws for Ronda. The village is small enough that you can spend one day in Ronda and see almost everything.

Located in Andalusia, Ronda is an easy day trip from Seville or Cordoba, but staying at least one night gives you a more intimate, relaxed experience in the town once the daytrippers leave.

Aside from having one of the most famous bridges in Europe , Ronda is also the original home to bull fighting. It is even the setting of the children’s movie Ferdinand , which is about a bull who doesn’t want to be a fighter.

Even if you choose not to support this controversial spectator activity, bull fighting an important part of the village’s history and even it’s present times.

Outside the bull fighting arena and museum, you’ll find Plaza de Toros , which is a lively square filled with vendors and musicians.

Because there are so many charming white villages in Andalusia, a visit to Ronda can easily be paired with a visit to some of the other picturesque white villages in Spain.

Additionally, Ronda makes a great stop on a Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary .

Where to stay: Luxury apartment across from Puente Nuevo

Sentil de las Bodegas

• Province: Cádiz
• Best Tour to Setenil : Bus Trip to Ronda and Setenil from Malaga

As mentioned Andalusia is famous for its beautiful pueblos blancos (the white villages). Probably one of the most incredible of all is Setenil de las Bodegas .

It has white houses crammed into the mountains and narrow streets that even small cars barely slip into.

In the past, the town was under Moorish domination and only after seven assaults of Christians was it conquered (hence its name, Septem nihil = 7 times nothing).

It later became known for its vineyards whose fruits were stored in rooms dug in the mountains called bodegas. The vineyards were eventually destroyed by insects, but the rooms became houses for the locals.

Many of these houses’ ceilings are directly carved from the mountain, like a cave. Some of the cave houses require you to bend down so as not to bump into the low ceiling! Dinner can also be served under the rocks on the terraces by the river bank.

On one side of the river you will find a street completely covered by rock, a street that has never seen the sun! The city has beautiful alleys framed by white houses and a small square in the city center.  

Setenil de las Bodegas is not just a village in the mountains, it is a unique experience for anyone who visits it! You won’t believe it’s real even when you’re there.

Corina – Another Milestone  

Where to stay: Casa Rural Cuevas del Sol cave house

Arcos de la Frontera

• Best Tour to Arcos de la Frontera : Guided tour from Cadiz, Jerez or El Puerto

One of the most beautiful yet underrated white villages in Spain is Arcos de la Frontera in Andalusia. Sitting atop a jaw-dropping cliff, the village is the perfect day trip from Cadiz or Seville.

There are plenty of things to do in Arcos de la Frontera . Other than eating tapas and drinking wine at one of the many bars and restaurants, you can enjoy a flamenco show or get lost in the narrow streets that wind between whitewashed houses.

Plaza del Cabildo is a great place to start your tour of the village. You’ll also find a beautiful viewpoint, the Town Hall, an old castle (which is privately owned, so unfortunately not possible to tour), the mesmerizing Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Asunción , and the tourist office.

Get a map if you like to stay orientated, otherwise it’s a lovely village to just get lost in. It’s small enough to not really get lost, yet big enough to feel a little lost.

Don’t miss out on the Convent of The Barefoot Mercedarian Order , which is the only remaining convent in use as a monastery in the village.

Linn – Brainy Backpackers

Where to stay: Parador Hotel at Plaza del Cabildo  

• Best Tour to Ojén : Ojén Day Trip from Marbella

If visiting the most picturesque white-washed villages in Southern Spain, you can use the charming mountain village Ojén as your base. As one of the ‘pueblos blancos’ in the Sierra de las Nieves , expect to experience an authentic local village with the most beautiful views.

With only 3,000 inhabitants Ojén is super small, but its mountain location is stunning and the way it’s built on a hillside makes it extremely picturesque.

The most picture-perfect way to see the village is from above at the viewpoint just south of the village (indicated as ‘ Mirador de Ojén ’ on most online maps).

There’s not much to do in the small town except strolling around its cobblestone streets and watching the local life in the white-washed streets. You might want to visit the Mill Museum or the Wine Museum . The main church is beautiful to visit, as well.

Though there is not much to entertain you in the quiet village itself, Ojén is the perfect base to explore its surroundings. Malaga and its beaches are not far, and so are more famous Andalusian places to visit like Ronda or the Camino Real .

Another great thing to do when staying in Ojén is to set out on one or more hikes at Juanar . Most hiking trails start at the Refugio De Juanar which is a 10-minute drive from Ojén.

The best hike is to the Cruz de Juanar on one of the mountaintops. From there, the views of the Sierra de las Nieves, Malaga, and the blue sea are stunning.

Maartje – The Orange Backpack

Where to stay: La Posada del Ange l

Mijas Pueblo

• Best tour to Mijas Pueblo: Mijas, Marbella, and Puerto Banus Tour

Mijas Pueblo is one of the most accessible white villages in Andalusia, 20 minutes away from Malaga, and well connected through regular buses.

The village of Mijas stands up at 400 meters (1,312 feet) above sea level, in the Sierra de Mijas mountain range. It has amazing views over the Mediterranean Coast and, sometimes, on a clear day, the mountains of Morocco.

Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to do in Mijas Pueblo. Walking around its narrow streets, especially in the upper part of the village, you will discover some of the most Instagrammable streets in Mijas Pueblo .

The staple of the village are the white houses decorated with blue flower pots in which grow red geraniums.

There are a few peculiar places to visit in Mijas Pueblo, one of them being the miniature museum, which hosts a collection of tiny painted objects. Among the most unusual ones are grains of rice, toothpicks or pinheads.

The bullring in Mijas Pueblo is another interesting place to visit as a piece of history. The arena is the only one in Spain that is not round, but oval, because it was built on a rock.

The bullring is used for different events and flamenco dances. There are no bullfights going on here. 

Joanna – The World in My Pocket

Where to stay: TRH Mijas Hotel

Zahara de la Sierra

• Best tour to Zahara de la Sierra: Ronda and Pueblos Blancos from Seville

Zahara de la Sierra is a medieval white-washed village you must visit when going on a road trip through southern Spain .

This hilltop pueblo blanco is located in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park , which means it is surrounded by extremely scenic landscapes.

It overlooks an artificial lake and a beautiful valley, so before entering the village, be sure to stop at the Mirador Zahara de la Sierra on the A-2300 road to admire these views.

In the village itself, you’ll find a few places to visit, starting with Zahara de la Sierra’s castle. The highlight here is the view because the castle itself is a not-so-impressive ruin (though it is impressive that it dates back to the 13th century).

Other landmarks to see are the Church of Santa María de la Mesa , the San Juan de Letran chapel, the Clock Tower, and a few other lookout points.

Looking for something more than just sightseeing? Head to La Playita de Zahara de la Sierra , a small beach on the artificial lake, located right outside the village in a recreational area.

The area also includes a restaurant, a kiosk, toilets, and picnic tables. The beach is open in July and August and costs between 3 and 4.50 Euros to visit.

Or – My Path in the World

Where to stay: El Pinsapo

Other White Towns in Spain

While the white villages above are among the best pueblos blancos in Andalucia, you’ll find plenty of other white towns in Spain that offer the same romantic atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Here are a few other white villages in Spain and towns where white walls abound!

Port Lligat (Catalonia) 

• Province: Girona
• Best tour to Port Lligat : Dali-themed Cadaques and Costa Brava Day Trip from Barcelona

Port Lligat (also written Portlligat) is a little village in the Costa Brava, Catalonia, not far from the border with France. Located at just 1 km from Cadaqués , it has an amazing setting on a bay of Cap de Creus .

Port Lligat is really small. It consists of a few white-washed homes typical of this area originally owned by fishermen, a few winding streets, and a pretty sandy beach littered with a multitude of colorful boats.

Today, this village would be totally anonymous if it was not for Salvador Dalí , the surrealist painter who had his second residence in Port Lligat . Dalí was born and raised in the city of Figueres , not far from Port Lligat and Cadaqués.

After his years in Paris , the painter bought a little hut in Port Lligat and he renovated it and enlarged it to spend long stays with his wife Gala.

Today people come to Port Lligat mainly to see Dali’s house , which is a house-museum. Just like his work, everything in this house is a bit surrealist, and it is well worth the short hike from Cadaqués. 

In addition to the museum, there’s a bar where it is pleasant to have a drink on an improvised terrace with sea views. In the opposite direction, there are some small swimming beaches where it is possible to rent a kayak for a small excursion on the sea.

Elisa – World in Paris

Where to stay: Hotel Port Lligat

• Best Tour to Nerja : Frigiliana and Nerja Tour from Malaga

One of the easiest day trips from Malaga , Nerja is a picturesque pueblo blanco on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. Its whitewashed houses are the perfect foil to the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean on a nice weather day.

One of the nicest things to do in Nerja is to take in the views from the Balcon de Europa . The promenade overlooks the water and offers expansive views of the sea and the coastline on both sides.

Wander the narrow alleys of the town, where you will see pretty flower boxes spilling over with red geraniums.

Relax with a drink in the main square, which is a great spot to people-watch. There are any number of tapas bars on the main square. While there, try the eggplant chips drizzled with honey!

Spend some time on one of the gorgeous beaches: with golden sand underneath palm trees. The Playa Burriana is a dream beach. You can also stroll the path by the water next to the beach, right under the Balcony of Europe.

The caves of Nerja are a must-visit, as well. With stalactites and stalagmites and cave paintings, the caves are Nerja’s most popular tourist attractions. They were discovered by accident by a group of young boys. In the summer, you can attend music concerts in the caves!

Dhara – It’s Not About the Miles

Where to stay: Hotel Balcon de Europa

• Province: Sevilla
• Best Tour to Carmona: Carmona Village Guided Tour from Seville

Carmona is one of the most pretty white-washed towns in southwestern Spain, which lies about 33km (20 miles) northeast of Seville .

The city is situated on a ridge of the central plain of Andalusia, followed by Sierra Morena from the north and San Cristobal peak from the south. An interesting piece of information about the town is that it is especially famous for olive oil, wine, grain, and cattle herding. 

Carmona though isn’t a huge town, but its real beauty is hidden within the fortification walls. There are a lot of things to do and see there, like touring the ancient walls, including Carmona Fort , Carmona Squares , The Gate of Seville , and the Gate of Cordoba .

Alongside, you can visit the Carmona Town Hall, Jewish Quarter, or witness historical artifacts at Museo de la Ciudad de Carmona . 

Whenever you visit Carmona , try to attend the on-going concerts or events, transition festivals, or go for a short drive.

Also, go shopping at the farmer’s market, where you can buy a variety of things related to Spanish customs, such as unique traditional souvenirs to take back home. 

Furthermore, escape from the sounds of the street and enjoy a cup of coffee in the exquisite scenic beauty of Parador.

Taste the various types of delicious Spanish-cultural cuisines from the different restaurants of Carmona.

For lodging, Corral del Rey is one of the best boutique hotels in Seville . Being located in the heart of Seville, the hotel provides multiple excellent facilities for its guests. From here you can easily explore Carmona in a (half-) day trip.

Paulina – Paulina on the Road

Where to stay: Parador de Carmona

Calella de Palafrugell

Province: Girona Best Tour to Calella de Palafrugell: Girona and Costa Brava Small-Group Tour from Barcelona

Tucked away on the Costa Brava , less than an hour north of Barcelona , Calella de Palafrugell is a pine-fragranced haven of pristine Mediterranean waters and cozy beach coves.

Popular with both locals and tourists alike, this is a beautiful place to be any time of year.

Bordering the water’s edge, the wisteria-draped village looks like something straight off a postcard. 

There’s a little something for everyone to enjoy here: children splash around and jump off hot rocks into the sea, while their parents and grandparents bronze themselves on the sand.

Seeking shade under the signature porticoes, couples canoodle on café terraces and soak in the sweeping views out to sea. Take a stroll along the promenade and snap a few photos of the colorful fishing boats.

To cool off, take a dip in the clear water, or explore the little gift shops and boutiques.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to stop by at the ocean-facing Restaurante Tragamar for a perfect paella and an ice-cold bottle of crisp Galician white wine, followed by ice-cream and a carajillo (coffee with brandy) for dessert.

Calella de Palafrugell is undoubtedly one of the prettiest destinations along the “Brave Coast” – the romantic little fishing village that all Hispanophiles dream of.

Ben – Driftwood Journals

Where to stay: Hotel Mediterrani

• Best Tour in Marbella : Taste of Marbella

Marbella will make a great one-day trip if you are out of ways to spend time in Malaga . You can feel right away how alive the city is while walking in-between the white-washed houses decorated with all kinds of beautiful plants.

Marbella is known for its natural public park with turtles as well as for various shopping places. Explore Spanish fashion at the local markets or visit one of the boutique shopping centers like La Cañada !

Make sure to visit the famous long-stretched, sun-kissed sandy beach Playa de Nagüeles , also known as Golden Mile. You can spend a whole day walking along the marvelous seafront promenade which is one of the longest in Andalusia.

Make the time to unwind on the beach while tasting freshly grilled sardine skewers and watching talented locals make amazing sand sculptures.

There are lots of authentic things to see and do in this beautiful southern city and a ton of wonderful luxurious hotels along the shore.

Ordering churros con chocolate in one of the cafes for breakfast will definitely make you feel like a local in Spain!

Juliet – Live your dream today

Where to stay: Boutique Hotel B51  

Bonus: A Neighborhood that feels like one of the Spain Pueblos Blancos

While the Spain white villages often require a journey from one of the larger cities in the country, occasionally you can find a neighborhood tucked away in one of the main cities that offer the same visual aesthetic of the small pueblos blancos in Spain.

So, if you cannot take a day trip to see one of the charming, tiny white villages, here is the next best thing.

Albaicin quarter, Granada

• Province: Granada
• Best Tour in the Albaicin Quarter: Sacromonte and Albaycin Walking Tour

When people are planning their trip to Granada , they usually are envisioning a visit to the Alhambra or eating paella while sipping on Spanish wines.

Although Granada is a smaller city, it packs a ton of history and so much to explore in the many districts that make up this gem near the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

On the hill overlooking the center of Granada is the Albaicin quarter , which is the historic Moorish area complete with its white-washed walls and tea shops lining its winding streets.

Any visit to this neighborhood would be incomplete without making the hike up to the many miradors (viewpoints) that all provide different but equally stunning views of the city. 

For a dramatic finish to the day, take a hike up to Mirador San Nicolás for sunset where you will be greeted by street musicians and the lights illuminating the Alhambra.

On the walk down the hill, stop for a drink at the many Tapas bars that are famous for their free tapas with the purchase of an alcoholic beverage.

Hop from one tapas bar to the next tasting their specialties or do like the locals and stay in one place as the free tapas get better with each new round.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, make sure to enjoy the best view of the Albaicin quarter which can be accessed by looking across from the walls of the historic Alhambra Fortress .

Kristel and Gabriel – Chef Travel Guide

Where to stay: Casa del Aljarife

Where are these white villages in Spain?

While many of the most famous white villages of Spain are in the region of Andalusia, there are some that are closer to Barcelona, making them convenient options for day trips if visiting Barcelona for a few days.

To make it easy for you to plan a trip to one of these iconic white villages in Spain, we have conveniently mapped out all of the places mentioned above. So, the next time you visit Spain, head to the hilltops, the mountains, or the coast where white streets of pure serenity await!

After all, your Spain bucket list won’t be complete without visiting at least one of the country’s famous pueblos blancos.

FAQs about the Spain Pueblos Blancos and White Villages

If wanting to visit any of the white villages in Spain, or the pueblos blancos of Andalusia specifically, you naturally may have a few questions as you plan your Spain trip.

What are the Pueblos Blancos?

The Pueblos Blancos, which translates to ‘white towns’ in English are comprised of both large and small villages with white painted buildings with red or brown tiled roofs.

While most of the official pueblos blancos of Spain are found in or near Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in Southern Spain, you can find white villages and white towns throughout Spain that are equally as picturesque.

Why are the White Villages in Spain Painted White?

The walls of the pueblos blancos and many other towns in Spain were painted white for several reasons. Firstly, the white paint was to help keep homes and buildings cool by reflecting the suns rays rather than absorbing them.

Additionally, there are some theories that the color white, which is associated with hygiene, became a popular paint color for villages as far back as the 16th century, when diseases like cholera and the plague swept through Europe.

Which is the best white village in Spain to visit?

While the town of Ronda is the most popular white town in Spain, for a smaller village feel, Zahara de la Sierra, Grazalema, and Arcos de la Frontera are all popular day trip options to experience the Pueblos Blancos of Andalusia.

Have another question or comment about any of these white villages in Spain? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Like it? Pin this list of white villages in Spain to save for later!

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1 comment on “The 12 Best White Villages in Spain and Where to Find Them!”

I’ve only been to Ronda of the White Villages but I would love to rent a car and travel through Andalucia to see some of the ones mentioned here. I know of Arcos de la Frontera and Zahara de la Sierra, so those would definitely be two of my stops. Great ideas for the future. Thanks!

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• Any pointed object
• Any other item determined to be a potential safety hazard

Please note that storage facilities are not provided during your visit. Individuals who arrive with bags or prohibited items will not be permitted to enter the White House.

Permitted Items

• Baby carriers worn on the body
• Breast pumps
• Cell phones
• Compact cameras with lenses less than 3 inches
• Umbrellas without metal tips
• All items needed for medical purposes (i.e. wheelchairs, EpiPens, medication, etc.)

Getting Here

Use of public transportation is strongly encouraged, as there is no parking available on the White House complex and street parking is limited. The closest Metrorail stations to the White House are Federal Triangle (blue and orange lines), Metro Center (blue, orange, silver, and red lines), and McPherson Square (blue, orange, and silver lines).

The White House Tour entrance is located in Sherman Park at 15th Street NW and Alexander Hamilton Place NW. If arriving by rideshare, use the White House Visitor Center (WHVC) as the drop-off address. The WHVC is located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20230, which is one block from the White House.

Restrooms are located at the White House Visitors Center, located at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20230. There are no restrooms available once you arrive for your tour.

Accessibility

The White House tour route is wheelchair accessible. Visitors who wish to use a White House wheelchair should notify a U.S. Secret Service officer upon arrival.

Guide animals are permitted in the White House.

Health and Safety Guidance

Guests who receive a confirmed tour reservation will be issued a White House Tour Pass ahead of their tour date containing pertinent health and safety guidance.

Know Before You Go

• Tours are self-guided and last approximately 45 minutes
• Eat a snack and stay hydrated prior to arrival.
• Dress for the weather, knowing you will be outside before your tour.
• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
• No late arrivals are accepted.
• All guests must be previously registered via the RSVP link provided by the White House.
• Please silence your cell phone and refrain from phone calls during the tour.
• No flash photography or video recording is permitted during your tour.
• Visitors may call the 24-hour Visitors Office information line at 202-456-7041 for latest updates and information relevant to White House tours.

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20 Most Beautiful Andalucian White Villages in Spain

The famous White Villages in Spain are the legacy of Andalucia in southern Spain.

Notoriously picturesque, they are full of authentic culture and decorated with blooming flower pots hanging off little balconies where abuelas chat. Below, beautiful white-washed lanes are filled with the competing aromas of orange, jasmine, and pots simmering home-cooked soups and meats.

Many of these Andalucian villages were once fortresses that marked the borders between Christian and Moorish territories. And today, while Spain’s cities like Madrid and Barcelona are stunning, nowhere quite matches the authentic feel of the Pueblos Blancos in Spain (white villages), which seem stuck in time and still conserve a slow pace of life and their unique small town traditions and ferias (festivals).

This is the essence of the experience in visiting the white towns of Andalusia. Whether you’re planning a southern Spain road trip, 1 week in Spain , or some day trips to a few of these villages from nearby places like Seville or Malaga , wander through the hilly narrow streets, linger over lunch at a small cafe, and browse in the artisan shops selling handmade goods to soak up the traditional charm of Andalucia’s Pueblos Blancos.

To help you choose and plan your trip, I’ve put together this guide with the best white villages in Andalucia all based on my own trips to southern Spain, as well as a map to show you where each one is and how to get there.

Map of the White Villages of Andalucia

On the white villages map above, you’ll find the white villages marked in blue and bigger towns and cities in the region marked in yellow. This makes it easy to see, for example, which of the towns are near Malaga or Cadiz so you can plan a logical route of the white villages.

Given their countryside location, the best way to reach many of the white villages in Andalucia is by car. While buses do run to many towns and villages throughout the region, you’ll be able to make the most of your time much more easily by having a car.

If you’re not driving and only have a couple of days in your southern Spain itinerary dedicated to seeing some of the Pueblos Blancos, consider going with a guide for a day trip. There are options from Seville, Malaga, Granada , and Cadiz that will help you experience Spain’s white villages without the hassle of the logistics with public buses.

Best White Villages in Spain – Andalucia

1. Zahara de la Sierra

Nature enthusiasts – we’re starting off with a white village designed for you. The little town of Zahara de la Sierra sits just above a reservoir, seemingly sprawling out from a rocky outcropping. The mountains of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sierra de Grazalema Nature Park stretch out in the distance and tempt you with the promise of some of the best hiking in Spain.

The town itself is quaint and cute, made up of winding streets of whitewashed houses decorated with bright pink bougainvillea flowers that grow along building facades.

On a cliff above the town, there’s an old Moorish fortress, the Castillo de Zahara de la Sierra, which was originally built as a defensive structure between Seville and Ronda. From the town square, follow the signs pointing to the castle. It’s about a 15-minute walk up to the top along a steep path. It’s well worth the effort, though, because you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the town, valley, and surrounding mountains.

2. Grazalema

This white village’s location right by the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and the Sierra del Pinar makes it a popular stop for hikers who have come to explore the surrounding hillsides and peaks. But even if you’re not planning on packing your hiking shoes for this trip, Grazalema is worth a visit. In fact, it’s also a popular stop for white village day trips from Seville.

The town is shadowed by the Peñon Grande limestone cliffs that tower over the village and give off an imposing first impression, but once you get into the narrow cobblestone streets of Grazalema you’ll find friendly locals, picture-perfect white houses, and the opportunity to watch daily life unfold in a small countryside village.

The main square is particularly ancient-looking with its knobby trees and church dating back to the 1500s.

Grazalema’s history is intricately woven with the textile industry, which is still alive today. To learn more, head to the wool blanket-production factory after strolling around the town’s historical center.

ProTip: Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra can easily be visited on the same outing. They’re just 30 minutes from each other by car. Both are about 45 minutes by car from Ronda.

3. Mijas Pueblo

The town of Mijas is very close to Costa del Sol’s most famous resorts just near Malaga, and because of that, it gets pretty busy in the summer months. It’s similar to a lot of the other white villages in Andalucia, with its classic Andalucian ambiance, rural mountain surroundings, and epic sea views. These are the reasons Mijas is so popular with visitors, some even deciding to forgo their return flights and put down roots.

Another amazing thing about Mijas is that it has stunning views that stretch as far as the Rif Mountains in Morocco on a clear day, and from Benalmadena to Gibraltar even on cloudy days.

The town is famous for its burros taxis (donkey taxis) that still run today and are the preferred mode of transport for visitors! This white village is a perfect day trip from Malaga . It’s only 30 minutes by car or about 60-90 minutes using the direct M-112 bus.

4. Frigiliana

This sleepy white village is just an hour and a half away from Malaga, and it’s so postcard perfect that it made it into a Coca-Cola ad and is often thought of as Spain’s most beautiful village.

There are two parts to this little town, the new town and the Moorish old town which is higher up the hill. Rows of hanging baskets line the walls of the houses while brightly painted blues and greens adorn the entrance doors. Combine this with the vibrant orange and fuschia flowers in bloom that are draped over whitewashed facades and balconies and you have some seriously drool-worthy curb appeal.

Stroll through the Moorish old town and soak in the views of the glistening Mediterranean in the distance. Next, have a lunch of cold gazpacho soup and a side of battered and fried eggplant drizzled with sugarcane syrup, a regional favorite!

Count all the hidden plazas (town squares) around town and enjoy wandering aimlessly through the narrow, winding alleyways! There’s nothing in particular you need to see – so relax and enjoy your day. Perhaps pop into a few of the shops where you’ll find handmade shoes and traditional Andalucian souvenirs.

Frigiliana is just 15 minutes by car from the popular seaside town of Nerja and just under an hour from Malaga.

5. Arcos de la Frontera

This little white village earned itself a title as a National Historic and Artistic Monument and is thought of as the gateway to the white villages. And what a gateway it is with its perched position, defensive walls, and Basilica at the top of the town. (Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the church tower for breathtaking views of the Spanish countryside and the river below!)

The village sits atop a high clifftop and the streets are a web of alleys that lead you through white-painted arches.

For part of the 11th century, the town was an independent Berber-ruled taifa (the name given to tiny kingdoms). It was later reclaimed by Alfonso X El Sabio (a Christian king). Arcos de la Frontera was right on the frontier between the Christian and Moorish kingdoms within Andalucian territory for many centuries, hence its name!

Another great thing about Arcos de la Frontera? The surrounding area is known for its wine!

Spend the afternoon sampling locally grown Petit Verdot and Tintilla de Rota grapes turned into wine varieties, perhaps after a morning at the nearby Arcos Reservoir. During the early part of the year, it’s home to flamingos and storks migrating through the area.

It’s about an hour away from both Cadiz and Seville and just 30 minutes from Jerez de la Frontera. So it’s an easy town to take a day trip to from these cities.

6. Setenil de las Bodegas

While all the white villages are characterized by their white facades and traditional small-town feel, few can say that their houses are built into caves and under overhanging rocks! This alone makes Setenil de las Bodegas one of the most popular white villages in Andalucia.

Sentinel de las Bodegas has all the best features of a traditional white village, plus a little more as it’s built into an old gorge. The town is split in two by the River Trejo and its caves have been inhabited since the Stone Age (about 12,000 years ago!).

It’s an incredible sight to see, particularly along the streets where the massive boulders appear to have landed on top of the houses! If you come across an open door or window, peek inside to see the walls and ceilings of the houses are, in fact, the rock with only the white facades having been built around the stone.

This one-of-a-kind “Pueblo Blanco” is a great destination to add to your white villages of Spain bucket list if you’re in Cadiz, as it’s about 90 minutes away and just over an hour’s drive from Malaga. Conveniently, it’s just half an hour’s drive from Ronda too!

Oh, and did I mention it’s also famous for its mouthwatering chorizo sausages?

If you’re a fan of museums and history and you want to do as much sightseeing as possible, Ronda is the perfect town for you. While in most of the white villages in Andalucia, there’s not much to do other than wander through the town, eat local food, and savor the charm of it all. But, Ronda has all of that alongside a long list of sightseeing musts.

The town was built on the top of the gorgeous El Tajo gorge, and it has a lot of Mudejar architecture (the style mixes traditional features of both Spanish and Moorish architecture).

While you’re there, look down into the gorge from the 18th-century Puente Nuevo bridge, visit the exceptionally well-preserved 13th-century Arab Baths, go on a tour of the famous Plaza de Toros, then dash in and out of the town’s many churches, museums and famous buildings like the Iglesia de Santa Maria la Mayor and the Casa del Rey Moro.

Less than 2 hours from Seville and only 80 minutes from Malaga, I’d put Ronda at the top of your white village tour priority list and even consider spending a night in the town or the countryside just beyond. It’s hands down one of the most beautiful white villages in southern Spain, while also being an incredibly interesting destination!

One of my personal favorites, Tarifa is a hub of sports, local culture, historic architecture, and alternative scenes. It’s sort of the “surf town” of Spain in terms of vibe. Though it’s not the best place to come if you want to go regular surfing. Instead, it is one of the most famous windsurfing towns in the world!

There are windsurfing tournaments year round you can watch from the beach. The sand flying everywhere and whipping at your legs can get a little annoying but it’s very impressive to see.

On the other hand, the city center is riddled with hipster shops and local restaurants serving up freshly grilled fish.

The most famous beaches in town are the Playa de Bolonia Tarifa, Los Lances Beach, and Playa de Valdevaqueros. Along Tarifa’s shoreline, you can also see where the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet.

Take a hike along the Parque Natural del Estrecho and visit the Castillo de Guzman el Bueno. Some of Tarifa’s most interesting spots and discoveries come from wandering through the narrow streets, popping into the local market or small church, or stopping for lunch in a hidden square.

Looking for some nightlife? Go to the trendy Surf Bar Tomatito and meet some of the hip locals.

If you’d like to do some of the best tourist activities nearby, go on a quick trip to the archaeological site of Baelo Claudia, an ancient Roman city by the sea or head out into the ocean on a dolphin-watching tour! You can even take a day trip to Tangier in Morocco from Tarifa!

While most of these Spain white villages can easily be seen in a day, it’s really worth coming to Tarifa for at least the weekend because there’s so much to do.

This peculiar little town nestled behind the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a bit more offbeat than some of the other Pueblos Blancos on this list. It is surrounded by three very alternative hippie villages, Cigarones, Beneficio (the most famous), and El Moreno – some of which aren’t even on the map!

The village has managed to peacefully integrate its traditional background with the rise of alternative communities in the area. It’s also been extremely welcoming to a mix of Europeans who’ve decided to call Orgiva home.

Soak in the varied facets of this very unique white village in the Alpujarras on a Thursday when you go to the local market and find that the Plaza de la Alpujarra is full of bohemian stalls selling homemade cosmetics, jewelry, and art, while just across the road there’s a cluster of Spanish locals selling fried chicken, inexpensive clothes, and local produce.

Looking for the best food spots? Go straight to La Baraka (make sure you order the falafel wrap, you won’t be disappointed), or enjoy plate after plate of free vegan tapas (one per drink!) at Pizza and Love.

10. Pampaneira

Situated further into the hills of Las Alpujarras, above Orgiva, Pampaneira is the epicenter of artisans. They have incredible hand-woven rugs in all shapes and sizes, leather products, and the finest local produce. If your timing is right, you’ll get to see a rug being woven on an old-time loom. Seeing this always amazes me because of the precision it takes to know the color of thread needed to create the intended design!

There’s not much to do in Pampaneira other than walk around and purchase beautiful locally-made souvenirs, so make sure you leave some space in your bag. Pop into Abuela Ili’s chocolate factory while you’re there and try all the free samples with a view into the kitchen where all the magic is made – one of my favorite things to do in town.

Pampaneira is just over an hour’s drive from Granada.

ProTip: Pampaneira is typically grouped with 2 other tiny villages nearby, Bubion and Capileria. Pampaneira is at the lowest elevation of the villages. You can drive up to the other villages, with the views from Capileria making the drive worthwhile. If you’re hoping to get into the mountains, you’re in luck. There is no shortage of hiking opportunities.

11. Casares

Casares is a white village in Malaga Province and it brings the idea of postcard-worthy to an entirely new level. The combination of white square houses clustered around one another, crowned by an old Moorish castle and a church on a mountaintop and surrounded by the greenery of Sierra Crestellina National Park is breathtaking!

As you wander through the town, be sure to take the road leading from the main square up to the castle. The remains of the 12th-century Castillo de Casares boast spectacular views that you’ll want to capture in photos and videos.

And although the nearby Iglesia de la Encarnacion isn’t open, the panoramas on a clear day extend to Gibraltar and the northern coast of Africa. Like many churches in southern Spain, the 16th-century church was built atop of former Mosque, with the bell tower hinting at its minaret past.

While the town you see today has a history that dates back to the Arabs, the first settlements where Casares now lies were constructed under the order of Julius Caesar himself as an act of gratitude after he was healed by the waters of the Baths of La Hedionda.

ProTip: Either as you arrive or as you leave Casares, stop by the viewpoint named Mirador de la Plaza Marcelino Camacho for that perfect postcard photo!

Handily situated along the borders between the provinces of Cadiz, Malaga, and Seville this white village was built 2,100 feet above sea level and it has an imposing presence from the minute you spot it as you drive in.

It has a long history, dating as far back as the Phoenicians. Later it became a Roman settlement before it was won over by the Arabs and became an important strategic town with many fortifications, including an imposing Moorish castle positioned to spot even the tiniest speck of an invasion on the horizon.

The Christians did manage to win it back during the Reconquista period, but not before a failed first attempt after which Olvera’s Muslim ruler Ibrahim-ibn-Utmain negotiated a peaceful surrender that allowed the town’s inhabitants to keep their homes.

The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnacion is Olvera’s cathedral. This neo-classic beauty is a like a beacon over the town and can’t be missed, literally or figuratively. Head up to the castle, too, for stunning views of the countryside. As you peer beyond the town, all you’ll see are olive groves! Olvera is famous for producing Andalucia’s best olive oil.

ProTip: Olvera is not far from Grazalema, Sentenil de las Bodegas, Zahara de la Sierra, and even Ronda. If you’ve got one day to explore Andalusia’s white villages and for example, you’re coming from Seville heading toward Ronda, you could focus on this cluster of towns. Ronda is better suited to its own dedicated day. However, 2-3 of the others can be visited on the same day.

13. Montefrío

Montefrio is one of those rarely visited jewels that have somehow managed to stay hidden from the flocks of tourists that make their way to the white villages despite having been recognized by National Geographic as one of the best views in the world.

Tucked away northwest of Granada, it is surrounded by acres of olive groves and watched over by two churches that sit on the top of the hillside and cliffs that border Montefrio. You can (and should!) take in the entire picturesque scene from the Mirador del Paseo viewpoint.

No trip to Montefrio is complete without a hike up to the Iglesia de la Villa which was built on the site of an old Nasrid Castle. It’s really worth going for the sunset, the skyline lights up in orange and deep red hues that glisten over the surrounding valleys.

Go to an art exhibition at the Casa de los Oficios while you’re there, visit the Neolithic and Bronze Age archaeological site just outside of town known as the Penas de los Gitanos, and go into the dome-roofed Iglesia de la Encarnacion.

14. Trevelez

This mountain village tucked away deep in the Alpujarras, behind the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is known for its high-quality produce and award-winning jamon serrano.

Granada is the only province left in Spain where the “one drink, one free tapas” policy still applies, so make the most of your time in Granada’s white villages tapas hopping in pueblos blancos like Trevelez! The little bars lined with ham legs and a host of grumbling locals are the perfect place to start your tapas tour in town.

Afterward, discover the town’s three distinct neighborhoods, Trevelez Bajo, Medio, and Alto, each identified for the low, medium, or high position they occupy within the town. Follow the path leading through each neighborhood to find the prettiest spots in the village!

Trévelez is also a gateway to hiking routes in the Sierra Nevada. Eager adventurers come here to take on multi-day and single-day hikes. One of the best routes is the Siete Lagunas climb up to a series of lakes nestled just below the tallest peak in Spain, the Mulhacen. But these routes aren’t for amateurs, it’s a steep climb all the way!

15. Iznajar

Iznajar proudly sits by Andalucia’s largest lake (well, reservoir), which means there’s a lot of water sports on offer in this little village! Bring a towel and a picnic and chill by the lake for the day. If you’re up for some adventure, rent a kayak and glide along this olive grove-lined lake or go on a sailing boat tour.

Stroll around the Patio de las Comedias, which back in the medieval period was a marketplace and today is one of the prettiest patios in southern Spain! Next explore the town’s streets, which are arranged around an old medieval fortress.

There’s a Moorish castle and church built by the Moors in town too! Iznajar is found in the province of Cordoba , near the Genil River.

ProTip: Like many of the pueblos blancos in southern Spain, Iznajar has a few designated viewpoints where you can take in the gorgeous vista before you. Mirador del Postigo and Mirador Embalse are worth a visit so you can see the village with the surrounding reservoir and countryside.

16. Antequera

Antequera is a hotspot of culture, art, politics, and history amongst Andalucia’s famous white villages. It was named after the Roman word for ancient, Antikaria, and then adapted to Antaqira by the Arabs, and later to Antequera.

Given this long history, the white village comes with a 14th-century Alcazaba and Roman ruins. Used during Moorish times for defensive purposes, today you can step along the ramparts imagining yourself with a bow and arrow ready to defend against an invasion. There’s also an audio guide to take you back in time.

When you finish inside the Alcazaba, take a little time to admire the Roman baths before strolling through the town to visit its squares and churches.

Hidden away between the mountains of the Sierras de El Torcal, Antequera has some great nature spots too.

Be sure to take a hike in the Arco Calizo Central mountain range, which has huge chunks of limestone, sharp cliffs, and areas of rough terrain that will challenge avid hikers.

Next head to the Peña de los Enamorados (the Lover’s Meeting Point) that sits just outside of town and where legend has it lovers came to meet secretly.

Thanks to its location between Upper and Lower Andalucia near Malaga, Antequera is home to a lot of history. There are several archaeological remains, like the Dolmens of El Romeral Viera and Menga, and the bronze figure of Efebo of Antequera. You can learn more in the town’s museum!

17. Estepona

Captivating and full of history, Estepona is a gorgeous small city known as the “Garden of the Costa del Sol”. A network of white streets adorned with blooming flower pots brings in tourists from nearby cities who are looking to escape the noise and enjoy the quintessential Andalucian feel of the city.

Estepona first arose in the time of the Phoenicians. It’s estimated they were here as far back as the 9th and 7th centuries B.C. They founded local settlements and remained in the area until the Romans, followed by the Arabs, and then the Christians in 1456, took over!

Another plus that Estepona has over other white villages is that it’s by the beach! So you can soak in the traditional feel of a white village in the city center, then escape to a prime position along a beach on the Costa del Sol – the best of both worlds.

Visit the San Luis Castle and watch some local flamenco in the El Patio flamenco house. Estepona promises the seaside, great food, and Andalucian wonders.

18. Castril

Situated in the north of the Granada province, Castril is authentic and a little less showy than the more famous white villages of Andalucia

Its story began when the Romans set up a simple camp here, and continued after the Arab occupation with the construction of a fortress that was designed to protect the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada.

The town’s history has left it with a fusion of traditions and diverse architecture. There are remains of Arab walls dotted around town, cute town squares, and white-washed houses in the old town.

Surrounded by waterfalls and caves it’s also got a lot on offer for nature lovers. You could spend a day just exploring the outdoors.

One of the more popular hiking routes near town, the Sendero de la Cerrada del Rio Castril, takes you over a wobbly old rope bridge, through a cave, and then to a waterfall.

19. Cazorla

There are white villages all over Andalucia, and it’s easy to get stuck exploring the villages in the provinces of Granada, Malaga, and Cadiz. But this white village in the province of Jaen and just an hour east of that city is worth a mention!

It sits within the largest and most visited protected nature area in Spain, the famous Segura and Las Villas National Park. Shaded by the nearby mountains and surrounded by olive trees, you’re in for a real treat.

It was once a Roman mining town and it later became a Muslim stronghold under the 700 years of Moorish rule the town lived through. It wasn’t taken over by the Christians until 1235.

The town is 2,700 feet above sea level so it can get a little chilly in winter, and it’s cooler than coastal towns in the heat of the summer (which will be a nice change if you visit southern Spain in summer, trust me!).

Some activities are a must in Cazorla, like a stroll to the Castillo de la Yedra, an old castle and fort that looms over the town, and a visit to the ruins of the Santa Maria church.

If you want to escape into nature, visit the stunning Rio Borosa, a river in the hills that has waterfalls, amazing hiking routes, and crystal-clear natural swimming pools.

Walk past the curious Casa de las Bicicletas, whose facade is covered in old bicycles before exploring the local culture and artisanal produce in the Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares del Alto Guadalquivir. I’m always wowed by tapestries and the ones on display here were no exception!

20. Vejer de la Frontera

Built on a hilltop overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, this little town boasts an old Jewish quarter, an 11th-century medieval castle, and plenty of Mudejar architecture…all of which deserve some of your time as you explore the white villages of Andalusia.

In particular, Vejer de la Frontera is a sister city of Ostuni in Puglia , along southern Italy’s heel of the boot. It’s no wonder because of their whitewashed appearances, there’s a remarkable similarity!

As you arrive at the village you pass through the 15th-century Puerta de la Segur. This ten-foot-high gateway was one of the four gateways built into the medieval outer wall that was once a part of the town’s fortification. It was built by the Duque of Guzman. You can walk along the ancient walls to discover the other arches, as well as see the parts of the walls that remain.

The main square, Plaza de Espana, is one of the prettiest in any of the white villages. The fountain and the palm trees are the perfect accents to the whitewashed background.

During your visit, stop for photos at the numerous viewpoints around and within the village. Famously, the Arcos de la Juderia deserves a spot on your camera roll, as does the view from Mirador Don Quijote.

Nowadays the town is especially known for fruit farming. Because of this Vejer de la Frontera is surrounded by orange tree groves. Make sure you get your hands on some local oranges before you leave!

White Villages of Andalusia Spain

No southern Spain itinerary is complete without at least 1-2 days enjoying Andalucia’s pueblos blancos! These tiny villages have a rich history, often dating back to Roman times or earlier. As a result, they’re great places to experience the region’s blended culture.

Not to mention, Spain’s white towns are among the prettiest anywhere with great views of the countryside and sea nearby! Simply put, whether you have time to visit 1 or 10, they’re not to be missed!

So, what are your questions about the white villages of Spain?

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Touring the White House requires some advance planning. Public tour requests must be made through your member of Congress ( find your member of Congress and contact information ) and submitted up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days prior to your visit. If you're an international visitor and wish to schedule a tour, please contact your home country’s embassy in Washington, DC.

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Touring the White House - Washington, DC

What to expect on a White House tour

If there is a tour slot available during your visit to DC, you will be given a specific date and time to arrive and be instructed on where to check in. All guests over 18 years old will be required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID upon check-in. Foreign nationals must present their passport. Please bring as little as possible (avoid backpacks, food, large handbags, bottled water, etc.). Note that smartphones and compact cameras with a lens no longer than 3 inches are permitted on the public tour route, but video recording devices and flash photography are not allowed inside the White House. Visitors will go through security prior to entering the White House. There are no restrooms available at the White House. The closest restroom is located at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion nearby.

Public tours of the White House include the public rooms in the East Wing, which includes the Blue Room, Red Room and Green Room; the State Dining Room; the China Room; and a view of the White House Rose Garden. Secret Service members are stationed in each room and are available to answer questions about the history and architecture of each room.

You can also visit the White House Visitor Center   before or after your tour.

Stephen Melkisethian

How to get to the White House

The closest Metro stations to the White House are Federal Triangle (Blue and Orange lines), Metro Center (Blue, Orange and Red lines) and McPherson Square (Blue and Orange lines). Please note there is NO PARKING near the White House. Public transportation is strongly encouraged.

@abroadwife

How to tour the White House Garden

Another opportunity to visit the White House is to attend either its fall or spring garden tour. Check whitehouse.gov in early October and April. The announcement of the garden tours is usually made within a week or two of when they take place. Garden tours generally run for two consecutive days. They may be canceled due to poor weather. A ticket is required for all attendees (including small children). Usually, tickets are distributed by the National Park Service at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion on 15th and E streets NW on each tour day beginning at 9 a.m. Review the announcement for specific details.

Will I still be able to see the White House without going on a tour?

While visitors are not allowed entry to the White House without requesting a tour through your congressional representative, you will still be able to see the White House from Pennsylvania Avenue NW at Lafayette Square and view the White House and the South Lawn from the Ellipse. Please note that a new fence is currently under construction at the White House, as the current 6-foot fence is being replaced by a stronger, wider fence that will be 13 feet.

Where can I store my belongings during the tour?

It is important to note that security at the White House is extremely high. If your hotel is nearby, we suggest leaving your belongings in your room during the tour. If this is not possible, there are a few other options. You can designate one member of your tour group to hold everyone’s belongings. That person can take the self-guided tour once his or her group has finished the tour.

If you're a ticketed Amtrak customer, you may be able to check luggage in advance at  Union Station . These are located near Gate A. Lockers are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. A photo ID is required and lockers must be paid for via cash or credit in advance. Rates are $3-$6 per hour per bag depending on the size of your bag. For questions on bag storage, please call 202-906-3000.

Catch up on White House history with the free podcas t The 1600 Sessions and enhance your trip with the  White House Experience app  from the White House Historical Association. The app offers three tour experiences, including a virtual tour of the White House (with rooms you normally don't see on the tour), a neighborhood walking tour and a room-by-room guide for visitors on an in-person tour of the White House.

Now that you have read up on the White House, explore DC’s other awesome  monuments and memorials .

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White House tours are back: Here's what you need to know

I remember visiting the White House for the first time during former President George H.W. Bush's time in office.

A friend with a friend who worked in the Washington, D.C., landmark at the time — if that isn't a quintessential D.C. thing to say, I don't know what is — was couch surfing at my place and wanted to "pay" me with a tour of the presidential mansion.

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I happily accepted the offer and, not long after, found myself exploring the iconic building. In addition to checking out the usual rooms included in the tour, my friend scored us a peek inside the Oval Office, an experience I'll never forget.

Like many sites in D.C., the White House paused tours of its interior due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But after 14 months, the Biden Administration announced that tours will resume on Friday and Saturday mornings starting April 15.

As was the case before the pandemic, you can't just show up and ask for tickets. Instead, you'll need to plan your visit weeks in advance.

Before you finalize your itinerary, here's everything you need to know about White House tours, plus suggestions for where to stay nearby.

Although the White House is managed by the National Park Service, you can't reach out to the agency to get tickets. Instead, you'll need to request them from your member of Congress (or your embassy, if you're not a U.S. resident). You can do this between three months and 21 days in advance.

Tours are limited to Friday and Saturday mornings (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted) from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, so you'll want to request your tickets as early as possible.

When you submit your request, be sure to include three potential dates for your tour, as well as the number of individuals in your party. Try to avoid the Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day and Christmas holidays, as tickets are a lot harder to come by during these busy times.

While you'll have a set tour time when you receive your tickets, know that unexpected events may occasionally cause your tour to be canceled at the last minute. If this happens, you'll need to submit a new request for a tour.

On the day of your tour, all members of your group who are 18 and older will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or military ID (or a passport, if they're from another country). Each person's name, date of birth, city and state given for the reserved tickets must exactly match the government-issued photo ID presented.

While face masks are not required during the tour, they will be available on site should you want to wear one. Items you're welcome to bring on the tour include:

• Compact cameras with lenses shorter than 3 inches long.
• Umbrellas without metal tips.
• Small personal items like wallets and cellphones.
• Items needed for medical purposes, such as wheelchairs (which you also can request at the Visitors Entrance), medications and mobility aids.

Keep in mind, though, that the White House's strict security protocols mean certain items are not permitted inside. These include:

• Video cameras, cameras with detachable lenses, tablets, iPads, tripods, monopods and cameras sticks.
• Bags of any kind (handbags, purses, book bags, backpacks, diaper bags and camera bags).
• Any pointed object, including pocket knives.
• Food, liquids, aerosols, tobacco products and personal grooming items (makeup, lotion, etc.).
• Guns, ammunition, fireworks, electric stun guns, mace, martial arts weapons and devices, toy weapons and knives of any kind.

There is no storage available at the White House or the White House Visitor Center, so plan on keeping any prohibited items in your hotel safe or leaving them with a companion who isn't taking the tour.

What you'll see

After you've made your way through security, you'll embark on an hourlong tour that includes stops at several well-known spots in the building, including the family theater, the East Room (which you may recognize from press conferences and special events), the State Dining Room (a banquet hall and ceremonial chamber for official events) and the Blue Room (a reception room famous for its decorations during the holiday season).

Depending on what's going on during your visit (or who you know), you may also have the chance to see other spaces like the Oval Office and the South Lawn, where Marine One (the presidential helicopter) lands and departs.

To supplement your White House tour, check out the adjacent White House Visitor Center . Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the center is home to roughly 100 historical artifacts and offers an interactive touchscreen tour of the White House.

There's also the nearby White House Historical Association retail store , which sells a great selection of souvenirs, including history books, jewelry, cherry blossom items and the official White House Christmas ornament.

Where to stay

Washington, D.C. is home to many chain, independent and boutique hotels, and luckily, some of the best ones happen to be within walking distance of the White House. Here are some of my personal favorites — and their current room rates for October 2022.

Related: Best hotel credit cards

The Hay-Adams

This historic hotel located between the White House and Lafayette Park regularly shows up on lists of the best hotels in D.C., and for good reason. If you play your cards right, you can snag a room with White House and Washington Monument views.

Speaking of views, the property's top-floor Top of the Hay has French doors that open onto a wraparound balcony with panoramic White House and city skyline vistas. It has a full-service rooftop kitchen, making it a terrific space for meetings and special occasions.

Since The Hay-Adams is a boutique hotel, it does not participate in any major brand's loyalty program. As a result, you'll need to pay cash for your stay. Standard superior rooms start at $439 a night.

Hotel Washington

For a while, this 105-year-old hotel was known as the W Washington DC, but it reverted back to its original name in August 2021.

The chic property is known for the Vue, an open-air space regularly touted as one of the city's best rooftop bars. You'll also find a mix of rooms and suites, including some with jaw-dropping city views.

Cash rates for a standard queen room at this independently operated hotel start at $337 per night, but if you're looking for a show-stopping view, consider upgrading to one of the Monument suites. You'll enjoy sweet views of the Washington Monument for a minimum of $580 a night.

JW Marriott Washington, DC

One of Marriott's flagship hotels just happens to sit right on Pennsylvania Avenue, less than two blocks away from the White House and next door to the National Theatre.

Like other hotels on this list, the JW Marriott Washington, DC boasts rooms with incredible views of downtown and the city's popular monuments. You'll also find a moody bar and an American-inspired restaurant on site, should you crave a cocktail or bite to eat after sightseeing.

While standard rooms do not come with a Washington Monument view, for a slight price increase, you can reserve a king bedroom that overlooks the monument starting at $359 a night. If you have a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points, you can apply 50,000 to 60,000 points per night to cover a stay here.

Willard InterContinental Washington DC

The history of this hotel, which opened in 1818, almost goes back to the start of the republic. As such, it was the place to see and be seen for centuries.

When I moved to D.C. in 1978, the iconic Willard had been closed for 10 years and was just a decaying building on Pennsylvania Avenue. That same year, a team was chosen to redevelop the hotel into the stunning property it is today.

Ever since reopening in 1986, the IHG-affiliated hotel has drawn visitors with its ornate lobby and classically-styled rooms.

To book a king room with a premium view, expect to spend at least $517 per night or apply a minimum of 53,000 to 94,000 IHG Rewards points per night.

Kimpton Banneker Hotel

Located on a tree-lined avenue with a view down 16th Street Northwest to the White House, this Kimpton outpost is slightly off the beaten path ... in a good way.

The property's Lady Bird rooftop bar features a bird's-eye view of D.C., including an unobstructed look at the White House, and a centerpiece U-shaped bar. Rooms and suites feature modern, eye-catching designs with colorful local art and bold accent walls.

Because this property participates in the IHG Rewards program, you can use either cash or points to pay for a room here. A standard room with two queen beds starts at $315 or 53,000 points per night.

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• By Dana Rebmann

The White House is recognized around the world. Home of the President of the United States, it’s the closest thing the US has to an official castle. But unless you’re a princess, visiting is not a ball. Is the effort worth the reward?

When I decided to take the kids to the Nation’s Capital, I knew I had to try. In my mind, visiting Washington DC and not going to the White House would be like going to Paris and not going to the top of the Eiffel Tower .

Entrance to the White House. No photo taking is allowed inside

White House History

President George Washington oversaw the construction of the White House more than two centuries ago, but he is the only President who never lived in it. President Thomas Jefferson was the first president to allow tours, and with the exception of wartime, the house has remained open to the public ever since. There are 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, 28 fireplaces, 8 staircases, and 3 elevators. The White House, named in 1901 but President Theodore Roosevelt, requires 570 gallons of paint to cover its outside surface.

But seeing the outside is the easy part. You want to get inside. There are five things you need to know to make it happen.

Need to Know White House Planning Tips

Request a Tour in Advance

Requests can be submitted up to six months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. Tours are first come, first served, so the earlier the better.  Requests must be submitted through one’s Member of Congress. That’s typically as easy as an email to your US Senator or Representative .

If you are not a US citizen, contact your embassy in Washington, DC for assistance in submitting a tour request. You will need to provide social security numbers for everyone who wants to go on the tour. Kids included.

All White House Tours are free, but there is a catch. There’s no way to know when you’ll find out if you’ve been granted a tour. I found out my family had been approved a little less than a month before our approved tour date. I have friends who were notified just days before.

Is the waiting game the end of the world? No. But it makes planning a little more complicated and what can happen, and did happen to us, is you wind up with tours scheduled at the same time. More on how we got extremely lucky later.

Bring Almost Nothing with You

The White House will not let you bring anything inside except car keys, wallets, jackets and umbrellas and cell phones (including those with cameras). If you use your cell phone in the White House is may be confiscated by the US Secret Service. No cameras. No diaper bags. No strollers. No snacks for the kids.

The Secret Service can and will take any personal items. You’ll go through three separate security checks, so they’ve got plenty of opportunity to rid you of any unnecessary items. There are no lockers to store bags and other prohibited items.

I’ve heard stories of visitors using lockers at some Smithsonian museums, which the museum frowns upon. In addition many of the White House tours take place first thing in the morning, before most museums are open. The only locker option I could find was Tiburon Lockers at Union Station. That means taking the Metro (redline) to Union Station, dropping off your bags and then getting back on the Metro or taking a cab to the White House. It is about a 40-minute walk from Union Station to the White House.

Bottom line, make it easy on yourself. Leave everything in your hotel room, and go back for it later. You just might be surprised by what you can live without. We left everything in our room, and never went back for it.

Identification

Be ready to show some government issued form of identification like a driver’s license or passport as you go through the various checkpoints. If you are not a US citizen you will need your passport.

Kids from the US do not need identification, but the security guards may ask you or your children some basic questions like where you live and how old you are. Not that you have any reason to fib about your age, but keep in mind, before your tour request was approved, the Secret Service checked you out.

Though the security guards are serious about what they do, they are friendly and in our case very forgiving. As I mentioned in my So Many Kid-Friendly Tours in Washington DC, So Little Time post we had to make a choice between the Bureau of Printing and Engraving Tour or the White House . The tours began just 15 minutes apart from each other, and money won the first round.

But when we finished the BEP tour and I looked at my watch I wondered if we could push our luck. We were already 10 minutes late for the White House, but it was only about a 10 to 15 minute walk away so we decided to go for it.  We arrived at the first security checkpoint at just after 9am, 30 minutes late.

“You’re fine,” the guard said, and after checking our identification and a quick chat with the girls we were on our way. A little travel luck goes a long way.

Junior Ranger Guide

Chances are your kids will be handed a Junior Ranger Guide before you even have a chance to ask for one, but make sure they get one. The guide is chock full of  interesting tidbits about what you see as you make your way through the White House room by room.

The famous full-length portrait of George Washington survived the British burning of the White House in 1814 because First Lady Dolley Madison had her staff break the frame and remove the canvas as they were evacuating. Who knew? It’s a good guide, whether you have kids or not.

What You’ll See

Your visit to the White House if a self-guided tour. It’s pretty self-explanatory, but there are guards everywhere if you have questions. Plan on a half hour to 45 minutes to see everything, which honestly isn’t much, but I’m still glad we went.

The tour is limited to a small number of rooms, but entertaining. There is a great photo collection featuring everything from famous happenings at the White House to pictures of presidential pets. Did you know President Coolidge and his wife had a pet raccoon? Look for the picture of Rebecca the raccoon snuggling up on the First Lady’s lap. With every First Lady comes a new china pattern. Look for your favorite design and the Steinway piano played by many presidents and famous musicians, including Richard Nixon and Stevie Wonder.

As you walk through the house, you can’t help but notice all of the area rugs rolled up, so not to be worn by the constant flow of visitors. For some reason it really struck me. I asked the guard if they actually unroll the carpet every night. His response, changed the whole way I approached the tour.

“You’re looking at this like it’s a museum,” he said. He went on to remind me the White House is the President’s house. Home to a husband, wife and two kids. It’s a home that like many others opens its doors to visitors, just in this case a lot of them.

It’s a glimpse of what life is like in America’s castle. I bet rolling up the carpet saves a lot of vacuuming. I’m all for that.

Relevant Links:

Ciao Bambino recommended kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC

Choosing between kid-friendly tours in Washington DC

Exploring Washington DC museums with kids

Washington DC family trip planning tips

10 new ways to experience Washington DC with kids

Washington DC with kids, top planning resources

Washington DC attractions, favorite family activities

Start a Discussion

Thank you for this! I just applied for a White House tour since we’ll be passing through Washington on our winter road trip. Wasn’t sure if I needed IDs for the children; I’m so glad I don’t have to get a passport for our littlest!

Thanks for the blog. I’m starting the research for our family for a first time trip to DC this upcoming July. We have 3 teenage boys and I know it’s going to be a great vacation.

That would be so interesting for the kids and adults. A glimpse into what it is like to be the first family, and despite the pre-planning required, you would never be sorry you did it.

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A Family Guide To Touring the White House with Kids

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The White House in Washington, DC , is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city – and even the United States – but did you know the average family can arrange for a tour inside the grounds ? Imagine walking in presidents’ footsteps, touring a room that recently held a State Diner, or taking in paintings and artifacts across hundreds of years of U.S. history. You’ll discover little-known secrets tucked away within its walls and hear stories about historic moments that took place right where you are standing – making your visit all the more special. Interested in a fun and informational tour of the White House with kids? Read on for a family guide to touring the White House to understand what to expect from a White House visit with kids!

How to Book a White House Tour with Kids

Families (and other visitors) are welcome in the White House Tuesdays to Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tours are not guaranteed, but can be requested by contacting your U.S. Representative if you’re American. Or, your country’s consulate in the United States if you’re a foreign national.

Families must request tours between 90 and 21 days in advance ; you should receive a confirmation email that you’ve requested dates once your local official submits the necessary information. From there, families will submit information such as full names and birth dates, which will be verified on-site before the tour.

When we contacted our Representative’s office, they asked us for multiple dates to increase the chances of getting a tour. We marked those days on our family calendar, and two weeks before one of our requested dates, we received an email confirmation with our tour time. 

RELATED : Best Washington DC Museums For Kids By Age

How to Prepare for a White House Tour with Kids

When you book your family tour of the White House, beware of rescheduling, a disclaimer they provide early on. This happened to us – they moved our Saturday tour to Sunday (a day they normally do not have tours) – with less than 48 hours notice. So, prepare to be flexible!

Before lining up to go in, be sure to eat, hydrate and use the bathroom, as you can’t bring any food, drink, or bags of any kind or size (even clutches). You can, however, take medically necessary items and baby supplies (e.g., diapers, wipes, baby carriers) inside.

If you need refreshments, quick-service establishments like Puro Gusto and Corner Bakery , as well as restaurants like Old Ebbitt Grill and The Hamilton are under two blocks from where families will line up for the tour. And if you have a bag that you can’t leave elsewhere, Hotel Washington , The Willard Hote l , and the JW Marriott are very close and may be able to hold it for you (we recommend checking ahead of time to see if it’s possible). 

Book your hop-on hop-off bus tour of Washington DC here!

Entering the White House

We arrived for an 11:30 tour at 11:00, and it took us 45 minutes to get through a two-block-long line. While most of the block features shade from trees, prepare to stand and walk for some time. After families get through the initial line and onto the White House grounds, prepare to line up for another 10 minutes so they can check identities and send you through security. They require government-issued IDs for U.S. adults and all foreign nationals. The latter two steps are largely exposed to the elements, so be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately to enjoy your family tour of the White House! 

READ NEXT : A Fun 5-Day DC Itinerary For Families With Babies and Toddlers

Touring the White House with Kids

The White House tour with your kids is self-guided , though the Secret Service agents in various rooms provide a wealth of knowledge for curious families looking to supplement written materials. You will enter the White House on the ground floor, where there are several rooms to view from a central corridor: the China Room, the Vermeil Roo, and the Library. Signs at the doorway of each room share interesting facts that complement the brochures visitors receive prior to entry.

Upstairs, guests will walk through the East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room, and State Dining Room before heading back outside. The White House still uses these rooms throughout the week, so expect them to section off certain furniture and artifacts for eyes only. 

RELATED : Amazing DC Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Elementary-Aged Kids

Tips for Touring the White House with Kids

The White House closes its rooms at 12:30, so families on a tour of the White House should keep that in mind. If you have a tour scheduled in the later range of the visitor window, arrive a bit earlier than you think you should allow for lines and security.

The White House suggests self-guided tours should last about 45 minutes ; we were in and out in 35 minutpartlypart due to rooms closing for the day, though we did not feel rushed with that amount of time.

Use Getyourguide or Viator to book other Washington DC Tours now!

Where to Stay in Washington DC with Kids

If you’re planning an extended stay in DC or need somewhere to stay in town after visiting the White House, there are many options. For an indoor pool for little ones to splash in, visit The Watergate Hotel . Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC offers a special welcome package for little ones, plus fun activities like a scavenger hunt.

Then, families can also stay near famous attractions, including the White House and the U.S. Capitol Building, by booking a stay at the Hyatt Place Washington DC . Or, venture to DuPont Circle and stay at The Darcy . For more hotel suggestions, check out our list of kid-friendly hotels in DC . Or, if you want a home and apartment rental, check out our Airbnb, Vrbo , and our recommendations for the best neighborhoods to stay in while in DC .

RELATED : Exciting Washington, DC Field Trip Itinerary For Families With Tweens and Teens

Enjoy the White House Tour with Kids!

We hope this article helps you plan a family tour of the White House! With a little planning and preparation, your family will surely have an exciting and informative visit to the U.S. president’s home, as well as an amazing stay in the nation’s capital !

*Unless otherwise attributed, all images within this article belong to and are courtesy of Megan Tucker .

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are that of the attributed author, Megan Tucker.

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