Romería of San Isidro in Nerja
The Romería of San Isidro is one of Nerja’s most beloved celebrations: a festive pilgrimage from Balcón de Europa to the Cuevas de Nerja with horses, carts and music.
The Romería de San Isidro is one of the most popular and well-attended festivals in Nerja. Every 15 May the municipality celebrates the patron saint of farmers with a festive pilgrimage that winds through the streets from Balcón de Europa to the area around the Cuevas de Nerja.
The pilgrimage
The romería starts in the centre of Nerja with horses, decorated carts, music groups and romeros dressed in traditional costumes. After mass at the Iglesia de El Salvador, with an offering of produce and a tribute to local farmers, the romería leaves the Balcón de Europa at noon, with pipers and drummers, oxen and floats, for the grounds of the Nerja Cave, where the image is returned to its chapel (owned by the town) and the celebration zone is set up with marquees, live performances and popular food.
Food and atmosphere
In the romería grounds, casetas from peñas and associations are set up, serving typical dishes: paella, migas, sardine espetos and traditional sweets. The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, with live music well into the afternoon.
Is it a holiday?
It depends on the year: the town council chooses its two local holidays every year. In 2026, 15 May was a local holiday; in 2027 it is not (the 2027 local holidays are 24 June and 16 July). On the day of the romería the council runs a special bus between Nerja and the Cave (12 noon to 11.30 pm in 2026). Source: Nerja Town Council.
Services & facilities
Video
1 videoRomería of San Isidro in Nerja — video 1
History
History of San Isidro in Nerja - The day revolves around local farmers giving thanks to San Isidro and asking for good fortune in the year ahead.
- 1070Isidore the Labourer was born in Madrid in 1070 and was known for his compassion towards animals and the poor until his death at the age of fifty-nine. He was canonised in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV and is celebrated throughout Spain and around the world, from South America to the Philippines. Madrid made him its patron saint and every year sets aside 15 May to honour him, as do many Spanish cities, towns and islands.
Expected weather
Very good weather in May: up to 24°C with only 2 rainy days and 9h of sunshine.
24°C
High
15°C
Low
9h
Sun/day
2
Rain days
Sea temperature: ~18°C
Historical climate data — real forecast will appear within 16 days of the event
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Romería of San Isidro in Nerja
Ermita de San Isidro, Nerja, Málaga
15 May, 2027
Organized by
Ayuntamiento de Nerja (Tradiciones Populares)
