Andújar Car Hire

Guide of Andújar

Geography

Andújar is situated in the heart of the Jaén province in southern Spain. It is located around 43 miles from Jaén, the regional capital. In terms of topography, the city sits in the valley of the Guadalquivir River, backed by the soaring Sierra de Andújar mountain range. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and open fertile plains, which produce olives, cereals, vegetables and fruit.

Climate in Andújar

Andújar enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and relatively mild winters. Average temperatures during the summertime range from 33°C to 36°C, though they have been known to exceed 40°C during heatwaves. Spring and Autumn average temperatures of 20°C, while average high temperatures during the winter lurk at around 12°C. October to February is the rainiest time to visit the city.

Culture

Andújar boasts a rich and vibrant culture that has been influenced by centuries of conquests and international trade. Visitors can explore this rich historical legacy through the city’s many museums, cultural events, architecture and gastronomy. Like many Andalusian cities, Andújar has a long tradition of craftsmanship and is home to dozens of workshops dedicated to ceramics, pottery and woodwork too. The city is also known for its colourful festivals, such as the Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de la Cabeza, which takes place on the final Sunday of April and features processions, music, dancing and traditional costumes.

Things To Do in Andújar

Meander around the Historic Centre

Andújar boasts a charming historic centre, with winding streets lined with Romanesque and Gothic architecture like the Santa Maria la Mayor Church. The Plaza de Espana, the social heart of the city, is the perfect spot to soak in the sunshine and watch the world go by.

Stroll across a Roman bridge

The Bridge of San Bartolome was built in the 1st century AD to facilitate transport and trade along Via Augusta, which connected various cities in the Roman Empire. It spans the Guadalquivir River and still looks much the same today, despite renovations and repairs over the centuries.

Brush up on local history at the museum

Andújar Municipal Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It houses an impressive collection of archaeological artefacts, art and historical exhibitions that illuminate visitors on the city’s extraordinary past.

Get closer to nature at a national park

The Sierra de Andújar Natural Park sits just outside the city. Renowned for its unique and diverse flora and fauna, there are hiking trails, guided tours and nature walks for hikers of all levels. If you have time, stop off at the Iberian Lynx Interpretations Centre nearby, which is home to the critically endangered Iberian lynx.

Explore the Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de la Cabeza

Probably the city’s most iconic site, this picturesque sanctuary sits on a hill overlooking the city. It is dedicated to the Virgin of the Cabeza, the patron saint of Andújar, and is an important pilgrimage site. Even if you’re not religious, the views overlooking the city and surrounding countryside make it well worth the visit.

Eating Out in Andújar

Andújar is renowned for its high-quality extra virgin olive oil production, which forms the backbone of most of the city’s traditional dishes. Local favourites include pipirrana (a refreshing salad), flamenquines (tenderized pork loin rolled in breaded ham and cheese) and carne de monte (a hearty game stew). The city is also located in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, so expect plenty of high-quality jamón ibérico (Iberian ham).

The city is crammed full of fantastic bars, restaurants and cafes serving up a wide range of local tapas dishes and larger plates. Restaurante Lugar de Santiago is a popular restaurant with both visitors and locals thanks to the quality of its traditional Andalusian dishes. For innovative flavours and modern takes on traditional techniques, try Restaurante Los Sentidos. Or, for dinner with a view, book a table at the Restaurante La Ruta del Agua, which overlooks the Guadalquivir River.

Transport

Airport

The closest airport to Andújar is the Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX), which is located 58 miles (94 kilometres) southeast of the city. The airport offers both international and domestic flights. From the airport, it takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive to Andújar. Public transportation is limited and requires several changeovers. Visitors will need to take a taxi or bus to Granada, followed by a two-hour bus to Andújar.

Alternatively, the next closest airport to Andújar is Malaga Airport (AGP). Located 105 miles southwest of the city, it is the fourth busiest airport in Spain and offers the widest range of flights in southern Spain.

Getting around Andújar

Andújar is an easy city to navigate on foot and most of its main sights are located in the historic centre, a short stroll from each other. There is no train station in Andújar but there is a local bus service, which connects different neighbourhoods and attractions in the city.

However, If you’re hoping to explore the surrounding villages and towns or more rural locations, we recommend hiring a car. Driving in Andújar is relatively straightforward with well-maintained roads and easy parking. Renting a car will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore the best the region has to offer at your own pace.