HIDDEN GEM ALERT: Antequera to Torcal Adventure
While travelling from Seville to Málaga, we made a stop in Antequera, and I absolutely loved it. The town was amazing—charming, beautiful, and filled with locals, giving it an authentic Andalusian vibe.
Unfortunately, the morning started with rain, so we left Seville around 10 AM and arrived in Antequera around 12 PM. We spent our time enjoying coffee, exploring the viewpoints, and soaking in the atmosphere, but sadly, we didn’t have enough time to visit the Alcazaba.
Later, we took a 20-minute drive to El Torcal, and here’s an important tip: DO NOT take the Yellow Route after rain! The trail was extremely muddy and cold, turning what is usually a 1.5–2-hour hike into a 3-hour struggle. That said, it was still breathtaking—I only wish the weather had been better! Anyway, all the details are below. 😊
Where is Antequera?
Antequera is located in southern Spain, in the province of Málaga. It sits roughly 50 km north of Málaga and is well-connected by road and rail, making it a great day-trip or weekend getaway from cities like Málaga, Seville, or Granada.
How to Get to Antequera?
🚝 By Train:
Antequera has two train stations:
1. Antequera-Santa Ana (for high-speed AVE trains)
2. Antequera-Ciudad (for regional and medium-distance trains)
➡️ From Málaga: Frequent regional trains take about 45 minutes, costing around €7-10 one way.
Check the prices and time table here:
🚗 By Car
If you’re exploring Andalusia by car, Antequera is conveniently located along the A-45 motorway, making for an easy drive from nearby cities.
Alternative:
If you don't have a car or don't want to bother with public transport and planning, Get your Guide offers one-day trips to Antequera, dolmens AND torcal!
First step: download the app via the link below:
Second step: Find the tour you want and check the reviews!
Third step: while buying, use code ''petrahus10'' for a discount! :)
What to See in Antequera?
1. Dolmens of Antequera (Dólmenes de Antequera) – UNESCO Heritage Site
Price: Free entry
This prehistoric site features three megalithic tombs, built over 5,000 years ago. The Dolmen de Menga, Dolmen de Viera, and Tholos de El Romeral are some of the largest and most impressive megalithic structures in Europe.
⏳ Time needed: cca 1 hour
📍 Location: About a 20-minute walk from the town centre
🚗 Free parking
❗️Entrance is free but upon entrance you have to go first to museum to get ticket, it is their way to keep the count of visitors :)
Honest opinion: don't expect much...I love visiting UNESCO places but this one was...underwelming. You can skip it and spend the day in the city..
2. Alcazaba of Antequera
Price: €6 (includes Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor)
The Alcazaba is a Moorish fortress offering panoramic views over Antequera and beyond. Built in the 14th century, it was a key defensive structure during the Christian Reconquista. The watchtower (Torre del Homenaje) is the best viewpoint in town.
⏳ Time needed: 30-60 mins
📍 Location: Near the town centre
🚗 Parking is FREE all over town, it is little out of the town so you have to walk a little bit
3. Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor
Price: Included in the €6 Alcazaba ticket
This stunning 16th-century Renaissance church is one of Antequera’s most important religious buildings. The façade is impressive, and inside, you’ll find beautiful vaulted ceilings.
⏳ Time needed: 20-30 minutes
📍 Location: Next to the Alcazaba
4. Iglesia del Carmen
Price: Free
This Baroque church is famous for its stunning wooden altarpiece, one of the most impressive in Andalusia.
⏳ Time needed: 20–30 minutes
📍 Location: In the old town, near the Alcazab
5. Plaza de San Sebastián & Old Town
⏳ Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
📍 Location: Town centre
6. El Torcal de Antequera – Surreal Rock Formations
Price: Free (guided tours available for around €12-15)
A short drive (or taxi) from the town, El Torcal de Antequera is one of Spain’s most otherworldly landscapes. Its unique karst rock formations, sculpted by nature over millions of years, create a surreal setting for hiking and photography. The park has two self-guided trails:
Green Route (1.5 km, easy)
Yellow Route (3 km, moderate)
⏳ Time needed: 2–3 hours
📍 Location: 15 km from Antequera (public transport is limited, so a taxi or car is recommended)
Where to Eat in Antequera?
🍜Arte de Cozina – Traditional Andalusian dishes with a modern twist (vegetarian options available)
🍜La Cantina – A budget-friendly spot for sandwiches and casual bites
Final Tips for Visiting Antequera
✅ Best Time to Visit: Spring (March - May) and autumn (September- November) for pleasant temperatures. Summers can be very hot.
✅For Torcal: water and good firm hiking shoes are a MUST! On the way there is no water so make sure you have at least 2-3 L if you are going on a hot day.
✅ Getting Around: The town is walkable, but El Torcal requires a car or taxi.
✅ Day Trip or Overnight? While Antequera can be visited in a day, staying overnight allows you to explore El Torcal and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Antequera is one of Andalusia’s most underrated destinations, offering a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Spanish charm. Whether you’re visiting for its prehistoric dolmens, its Moorish past, or its incredible natural beauty, this town is a must-see for travellers looking to step off the beaten path.
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