Travel luminary Rick Steves holds a nuanced perspective on Spain's southern coastline, particularly the Costa del Sol. He contends that this popular stretch has been significantly overdeveloped, sacrificing genuine Spanish character for mass tourism. Steves suggests that the region primarily attracts visitors seeking only a change of climate, rather than an authentic cultural immersion. Despite his general disapproval, he identifies a select few coastal towns, such as Nerja, Gibraltar, and Tarifa, that retain elements of true Andalusian charm and cultural integrity. His broader recommendation for those desiring a deeper connection with Spain's heritage leans towards the rich inland regions of Andalusia, which he believes offer more profound cultural experiences away from the commercialized beachfronts.

Steves's critique of the Costa del Sol is rooted in his philosophy of experiential travel, which prioritizes engagement with local life and history over typical tourist infrastructure. He describes the area as having lost its "quaint fishing village" appeal, becoming instead a destination where "concrete, pollution, ridiculous prices, and traffic jams" prevail. According to Steves, the influx of visitors from northern Europe, primarily seeking sun, has led to a watering down of Andalusia's rich 'gitano' heritage, with many establishments even foregoing Spanish menus in favor of German, English, and Dutch options. This, he argues, detracts from the authentic cultural exchange he champions.

While largely critical of the "Costa del Turismo," as he labels it, Steves acknowledges that certain spots manage to preserve their distinctive character. Nerja, for instance, is praised for its picturesque white-washed buildings nestled against sea cliffs and the impressive subterranean formations of the Nerja Caves. Gibraltar, with its iconic Rock offering intercontinental vistas, is another of his favored European "ends." Tarifa, described as a working town with a historic core, expansive beaches, and quality dining, also earns his endorsement, serving as an ideal launching point for excursions to Tangier, Morocco.

Conversely, Steves ardently advocates for exploring inland Andalusia, which he considers to be the true heart of Spanish culture. He often guides travelers towards the region's prominent cultural centers: Granada, with its majestic Alhambra; Seville, renowned for its vibrant dance and festivities; and Cordoba, home to the unique Mezquita—a cathedral uniquely housed within a mosque. Other notable inland attractions include Ronda's breathtaking Puente Nuevo bridge, a significant site in the history of bullfighting. Furthermore, Steves points to Málaga, Andalusia's coastal capital, as an unexpected cultural hub that has revitalized itself in the 21st century. Its resurgence is attributed not just to its coastal beauty, but more significantly to its thriving art scene, exemplified by the Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou satellite, and the dynamic Soho arts district with its street art and galleries.

Ultimately, Steves's counsel to travelers is to look beyond the heavily commercialized stretches of Spain's southern coast. He encourages a journey into the interior of Andalusia, where the essence of Spanish tradition, history, and local life remains vibrantly intact, offering a far more enriching and meaningful travel experience than the sun-soaked, but culturally diluted, coastal resorts.