Romantic Antequera: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Antequera , Spain

Romantic Antequera: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The stone tombs at the UNESCO-listed Antequera Dolmens Site put Antequera on the tourist map. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit this charming Andalucían city.

On this walking tour, you‘ll learn how Muslims and Christians battled for control of this strategic stronghold at the crossroads of Andalucía. You’ll also discover why it had romantic appeal for visitors like writer Washington Irving, who was in search of the legendary Spain of ‘ballad and chronicle‘.

The tour starts in Plaza Coso Viejo. From there, you‘ll wind your way up to the Arco de los Gigantes and the Alcazaba de Antequera citadel. As you explore, you‘ll find out how Ferdinand of Antequera changed the city‘s destiny, and discover picturesque legacies of the city‘s Moorish past. The final part of the tour will take you through the district the Christians built in the 15 to 1700s.

By the end of this tour in Plaza de San Sebastian, you‘ll understand why Antequera really is at the heart of Andalucía.

Available options

Romantic Antequera: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

We'll start our tour in Plaza Coso Viejo, by the statue of Ferdinand of Antequera.

From here we will make our way up to the Alcazaba on the hill above us.

We'll pass by the Museum of Antequera, housed in a lovely mansion from the 1700s.

However, entry to the museum is not included.

We'll pass through the Arco de los Gigantes, named after the statues that used to adorn it.

This impressive arch takes us into what used to be the walled town in Muslim times.

We'll pass the Alcazaba, the imposing medieval citadel of Antequera.

Please note that entry to the Alcazaba is not included in the tour.

We'll pass by the deconsecrated church of Santa Maria la Mayor, built in the Renaissance style.

Entry to the church is not included in this tour.

We'll pass by the distinctive porticoed chapel of El Portichuelo.

You'll find out how it is related to the town's Holy Week processions.

We'll pass by the Renaissance Church of Santa María de Jesús.

Please note, entry to the church is not included in the tour.

We'll pass by the Iglesia del Carmen, whose sombre Renaissance facade hides an exuberant Baroque interior.

However, entry to the church is not included in this tour.

We'll pass by the Museo de las Descalzas in the beautiful convent of the Discalced Carmelites.

Please note that entry to the museum is not included in the tour.

We'll pass close to the MAD museum of modern and contemporary art.

Entry to the museum is free.

We'll pass by the monument to the Muslims forced to leave the town after its conquest to the Christians.

Most of the exiles from Antequera eventually settled in Granada.

We'll finish our tour outside the Church of Saint Sebastian with its magnificent tower.

Entry to the church is free.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Plaza Coso Viejo. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Antequera

Antequera is a historic city in the heart of Andalusia, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and proximity to some of Spain's most famous natural landmarks. The city offers a blend of Moorish and Renaissance influences, making it a unique and fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

El Torcal de Antequera

El Torcal is a unique and stunning natural park known for its dramatic limestone formations and hiking trails. The park offers breathtaking views and is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Antequera Dolmens

The Antequera Dolmens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of three megalithic tombs dating back to the Bronze Age. These ancient structures are a testament to the rich history of the region.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Alcazaba of Antequera

The Alcazaba of Antequera is a well-preserved Moorish fortress dating back to the 14th century. It offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, as well as a glimpse into the region's Islamic past.

Historical 1-2 hours €5.50

Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor

This stunning Renaissance church is a masterpiece of Spanish architecture, featuring a beautiful facade, intricate carvings, and a richly decorated interior.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Antequera Museum

The Antequera Museum houses a collection of artifacts spanning the region's history, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the cultural and historical heritage of Antequera.

Museum 1-2 hours €3

Must-Try Local Dishes

Porra Antequerana

A cold soup made with tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and bread, similar to gazpacho but thicker and creamier. It's typically topped with a fried egg and ham.

Appetizer Vegetarian (without ham and egg)

Plato de las Pedanías

A traditional dish featuring a variety of local meats, including pork, lamb, and chicken, cooked with potatoes and vegetables.

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan

Piononos

A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of milk, sugar, and cinnamon, then rolled and baked. It's a traditional dessert from the Antequera region.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for animal fats in the dough)

Vino de Antequera

Local wine produced in the Antequera region, known for its rich flavors and high quality.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Torcal de Antequera Rock climbing Horseback riding Beach relaxation in nearby Málaga Spa treatments Wine tasting Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit Antequera for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is in full bloom during the spring and fall.

18-30°C 64-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (to some extent)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Antequera is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport • 50 km

By train

Antequera-Santa Ana Station

By bus

Antequera Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The urban bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses are frequent and connect major points of interest.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi apps are not widely used, but you can hail a taxi on the street or call a taxi company

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Juan Las Pedriza

Day trips

El Torcal de Antequera

20 km • Half day to full day

A unique and stunning natural park known for its dramatic limestone formations and hiking trails. The park offers breathtaking views and is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Málaga

50 km • Full day

A vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Málaga offers a mix of old and new, with a rich history and a lively atmosphere.

Granada

100 km • Full day to overnight

A historic city in the heart of Andalusia, known for its stunning Alhambra palace and rich Moorish heritage. Granada offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Festivals

Antequera Festival of San Sebastian • January 20th Antequera Festival of Agosto • August Antequera Wine Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Alcazaba of Antequera early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
Try the local specialty, Porra Antequerana, at a traditional restaurant or tapas bar
Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Take a day trip to El Torcal de Antequera for stunning views and unique rock formations
Visit the Antequera Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage