9 Best & Interesting Things To Do In Istán, Andalusia (2024)

A girl standing in front of a blue & white tiled fountain with water flowing out the taps.

Istán is one of the most unique whitewashed pueblos in Andalusia. Located approximately 75km from Malaga, nestled in the mountains, it is part of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. Originating as a Moorish village, it is famously referred to as the ‘Spring’ of the Costa Del Sol due to the water from the nearby rivers flowing through the streets.

Istán is definitely worth a visit when you’re in Andalusia, particularly if you enjoy wandering through villages steeped in history. We visited in June 2023, and despite the rain that accompanied us for most of our time there, we were happy we went!

In this post we’ll share with you the best things to do in Istán, how to get there & some useful tips!

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An old tiled map of Istan showing the main attractions in the town.

In This Post

The Best Things You Can Do & See In Istán!

1. El Chorro Water Fountain

One of the most important & symbolic sights to see in the town, is the El Chorro Water Fountain & Washing Point – situated on Calle Chorro.

In the past, locals used this area for laundry due to the absence of running water in their homes. The water, originating from Sierra Springs and Rio Verde, cascades through the village via a network of irrigation ditches.

You’ll be able to see the water coming from the fountain & gushing towards the village streets in the channel right beside. It has beautiful blue & white tiles, some with some interesting artwork.

El Churro Fountain from above, with ISTAN engraved on the stone floor in front.

The blue and white tiles of El Churro Fountain with a sign saying 'Agua Potable'

The archways at El Churro Fountain in front of the irrigation ditch.

The irrigation ditch at El Churro Fountain in Istan with water flowing through it.

2. Mirador Tajo Banderas

The viewpoint at Tajo Banderas, overlooking the Rio Verde river & green hills.

There are many great viewpoints in Istán, one of the top ones being Tajo Banderas.

You will discover breath-taking views over the mountains – Sierra Parda, Sierra Blanca, and Sierra de las Nieves. Nestled between these mountains lies the Rio Verde reservoir.

There’s also a large swing right next to the viewpoint that we somehow overlooked – so if you happen to find it during your visit, please let us know!

To find the viewpoint: Locate Calle Tajo Banderas next to the cemetery. Continue along the road past the school, and when you reach the small park, proceed straight on the path ahead.

A view from Mirador de la Herriza towards the mountains below & Rio Verde.

3. Istán’s Town Hall

In Istán’s main street lies the town hall, a central hub for events, performances, town meetings, and frequent festivities.

We didn’t go in the day we visited as we weren’t sure it was open, but it was still interesting to see!

For more information on what’s on in the town hall when you are visiting, we recommend checking out the Ayuntamiento de Istan Website or their Offical Facebook as they do have different fun things happening throughout the year!

The town hall of Istan with an orange turret & clock at the top.

4. Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel

Another fantastic place to see is one of the oldest structures in town – The Church Of San Miguel. It’s located in the square & is open all day to visitors.

Constructed in the 16th century, the building was set ablaze during the Rebellion of the Moors and has undergone two reconstructions since then.

Even if you aren’t religious, you can still appreciate the architecture of the chapel & its historical significance!

If you’re feeling a bit hungry, consider stopping by Bar Bodega or Bar Troyana. Both are conveniently situated next to the church in the square and offer outdoor seating.

The front of a church in Istan with an old archway & brown door, with seats outside for locals to sit.

5. Mirador de la Herriza

We explored another viewpoint which, despite offering views similar to those at Tajo Banderas (overlooking Rio Verde and the mountains) it felt like such a serene and lovely location.

How To Find It: Next to the cemetery, you’ll find Calle Tajo Banderas. Follow the road on past the school, then once you get the small park head on up the footpath to the left & to the viewpoint!

6. Explore The Streets of Istán

A man walking through a whitewashed village in Spain, passing houses with flower pots handing on the balcony & wearing a pineapple tshirt.

Of course, one of the best things to do in Istán is simply to explore its quaint streets & enjoy your surroundings.

The town is adorned with several small fountains, adding to its unique charm. The sound of water flowing through the streets at every corner contributes to a tranquil stroll.

Additionally, you may notice small crosses within tiny alcoves embedded in the sides of houses. These are meant to represent the Stations of the Cross, also known as the Way of the Cross.

An ornate painting on the church in Istan with mountains and trees on it.

An alcove built into the side of a house with a small flower pot & cross behind it.

A water fountain in Istan with the tap running and the signature blue & white tiles with small paintings on them.

Other Things To Do In Istán (That We Missed!)

Due to the weather our visit to Istán was fairly short & sweet, so we missed a few other interesting spots, but we wanted to add them here for you!

7. Escalante Tower

One of the oldest buildings in Istán & the municipality of Andalusia. It was thought to be used as a watchtower to defend Marbella on the coast, & as a shelter for the local population.

8. Mirador del Peñón

Another awesome viewpoint – overlooking the mountains of Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. You can find it by following Calle Pablo Picasso to Calle Granados.

9. Source of the River Molinos

Just a short walk in nature from the town, is the source of the river, with small waterfalls & a spring. According to reviews it’s actually best to go when there has a been a bit of rainfall, so you can actually see the water flowing – but either way it’s a must-see spot!

How To Get To Istán, Andalusia

Overlooking the Sierra Blanco mountain behind Istan.

Istán is part of the National Park of Sierra Nieves & sits beside the valley of Rio Verde. The main road there is fairly steep & winding but in good condition & super scenic!

If you are coming from Málaga City, it will take you around 1hr10mins to get there.

If you are coming from Marbella, it will take you around 30mins to get there.

Make your way to the A-7 road, take exit 1047 B from AP-7, then exit 1048 towards A-7176/Istán.

Where To Park In Istán, Andalusia

A street sign in Istan showing where to go for parking & hikes.

TIP: We suggest parking as soon as you enter the town, as most of the streets further into Istán are not suitable for cars. You’ll find plenty of on-street parking as you enter on the main street, or you can head to this parking spot on Calle Calvario.

If you want to hire a car for your stay in Andalusia, we recommend taking a look at the comparison website Discover Cars for some of the best deals at Malaga Airport.