Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool, a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

Vejer de la Frontera, a picturesque town advantageously located hillside and overlooking the seafront is a perfect day trip destination. The best option is to rent a car but it's also possible to get there by train and bus. The town is divided into an old medieval centre with narrow streets, and a newer and modern area.

Inspired by the architecture of the Cathedral of Seville, the Metropol Parasol claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world. The spot chosen for the construction of this futuristic marvel turned out to contain ancient ruins of the Roman and Al-Andalus era, which were discovered during construction works for underground parking (learn more at the on-site archaeological museum). Don't miss the scenic rooftop walkway.